News & Views

AXMINSTER

Pool to reopen The Flamingo Pool, a self-funded charity in Axminster, announced that it was reopening on August 24th after it had been hit extremely hard financially by the government enforced lockdown. The charity estimated the pool had lost around £50,000 whilst ensuring all amenities had been scaled back as far as achievable, to save as much as possible. After a successful fundraising effort a statement on the pool’s Facebook page said: ‘There will be a few changes in places including a basket system for your belongings, limited numbers in both pools and sanitising stations around the building as well as social distancing being undertaken as a must. We can’t wait to welcome you all back to swim with us in a safe, friendly environment.’

LYME REGIS

Theatre weathering storm The Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis has been working hard to weather the COVID-19 crisis through its small reserves, generous public donations, and grants. It is hoped that socially distanced live events may be allowed in the medium term. However, in the meantime, the theatre has a selection of outdoor events planned. Organisers are asking those attending to observe social distancing, have clean hands, and use provided hand sanitiser on arrival. There will be a one way system to maintain distancing when visiting the bar or toilet. Tickets must be booked in advance online on the theatre’s website. For full details of events, as well as an opportunity to donate to its reopening fund, visit the theatre’s website at www.marinetheatre.com.

WINSHAM

Cycling for APP Simon and Jude Hill from Winsham are cycling 2500 miles to raise awareness and funding for Action on Postpartum Psychosis. When their third daughter suffered from Postpartum Psychosis, after the birth of her daughter in 2018, they were so grateful for the support she received whilst in Leeds Mother and Baby unit. That support has continued to help her towards making a full recovery. Simon and Jude are riding from Lands End to John O’Groats and Simon will ride back ( Jude will be doing a few less miles as another Grandchild is due in late September!). ‘Our hope is to be back at our home in Somerset by early October’ said Jude. To support their efforts vist their JustGiving page: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ridefor-recovery.

DORCHESTER

Hospital asks for support Clinicians at Dorset County Hospital are asking local residents to register their support for the first phase of plans to expand key clinical facilities on the Dorchester site. The plans include the expansion of the Emergency Department (ED) and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) as well as the establishment of an Integrated Care Hub as part of a long-term project to deliver the recommendations of Dorset’s Clinical Services Review. Dorset County Hospital has been allocated £62.5million of Government funding for the expansion plans as part of the national Health Infrastructure Plan and the project has been recognised as a priority. To show your support visit https://dchft.onlinesurveys.ac.uk/dch-support or go to the

hospital’s website www.dchft.nhs.uk.

LULWORTH

Human chain saves a life An extraordinary effort of support and bravery helped save a life at Durdle Door recently when a human chain assisted a swimmer in distress. Up to twenty people linked arms to reach a man caught in dangerous wave conditions on the popular Dorset beach. Lulworth Coastguard Rescue Team warned against entering the sea in dangerous conditions.: ‘With the large waves and spring tides of late, we strongly discourage sea swimming and playing around in the surf, especially on exposed beaches such as Durdle Door. The undertow is very powerful and will have no trouble taking you off your feet.’ Eyewitnesses to the incident said people applauded the bravery of those that assisted the swimmer. Coastguard Rescue urged people to call 999 and ask for the Coastgaurd if they see someone in difficulty.

A leading charity is looking for cyclists

DIABETES UK is looking for people from Dorset to get on their bikes and take on the UK Wide Cycle Ride this September.

This September take your fitness up a gear and complete our coast to coast virtual challenge. You can pick your distance from one of four routes. Beginners may want to tackle the 120-mile Route One—the equivalent of Dundee to Fort William or experienced cyclists who are after a challenge may find the 950-mile Route Four, the equivalent of Land’s End to John O’Groats, more their speed.

The aim is to challenge yourself—at your own pace—and pedal towards a stronger, healthier you. You can also get family, friends or colleagues along for the ride.

During the past few months, demand for our services has reached unprecedented levels and our own funding has been significantly impacted. People with diabetes need us now, and so we need your support to be able to continue fighting. Join us, and your support can change lives.

There are an estimated 4.7 million people living with diabetes in the UK—a condition where there is too much glucose in the blood because the body cannot use it properly. If not managed carefully, both type 1 and type 2 diabetes can lead to devastating complications, including sight loss, amputation, kidney failure and stroke. There is currently no known cure for any type of diabetes.

Phaedra Perry, Regional Head Diabetes UK South West, said: “Cycling is a fantastic way to help you get fit and healthy, have fun and set yourself a challenge. Whether you’re a novice in the saddle or a cycling fanatic, our team will be on hand to offer cycling tips and fundraising advice. Every mile you complete and every pound you raise brings us closer to our vision of a world where diabetes can do no harm. Sign up and get pedalling—your support can change lives!”

To register, visit diabetes.org.uk/ride There is no registration fee and no minimum sponsorship.