inside
JASON MANFORD TALKS TO SEEKER NEWS
Seeker NEWS free
issue 22|august 23-september 5, 2013
www.seekernews.co.uk Dorset’s finest news, sport, arts, events, heritage, food & drink, business, lifestyle
WELCOME TO TOWN BUT AT WHAT PRICE? PAGe 5
BACK OF THE NET! ‘fortress’ dean court PAGe 34
UP, UP AND AWAY! Air Festival Guide
In association with CENTRE PAGES
STRANDING SIGN-UP CASTAWAY CHALLENGE PAGe 7
CITY OF POOLE BAY THREE IN ONE? PAGe 3
Business Problems? Talk to people who care Call us now for a free confidential chat...
01202 551193
www.markliddle.com
2 seeker news
news
Seeker News
Editor Steve Cook steve@seekernews.co.uk Deputy editor Nick Churchill nick@seekernews.co.uk Associate editor Dawn Cook dawn@seekernews.co.uk SPORT Paul Baker paul@seekernews.co.uk Non-league football Richard Button richard@seekernews.co.uk Motoring Chris Adamson chris@seekernews.co.uk Photography Siân Court sian@seekernews.co.uk Advertising sales@seekernews.co.uk Website www.seekernews.co.uk Facebook www.facebook.com/seekernews Special thanks to Alex Frith, Steve Harris and Simon Carlton Cover photo credits: Red Arrows: Crown Copyright
Seeker Keel House, 244 High Street North, Poole BH15 1EA Tel: 01202 649811 © 2013 Seeker All rights reserved Seeker is a Business Solent Champion
dorset trivia
The Great Globe at Durlston Castle, by Steve Cook
TV’s chatty man, Alan Carr was born in Weymouth although he grew up in Northampton. His father is chief scout for Newcastle United and was previously manager of Northampton Town. In 2006 Carr and Lionel Blair helped save a man who was about to fall from a pier in Blackpool – now that would have been a surreal rescue!
View and buy an amazing selection of photos of Dorset
www.seekerphotos.com
august 23-SEPTEMBER 5 2013
editorial
N
ow in its sixth year, Bournemouth Air Festival is credited with attracting more than 4.7 million visitors and generating more than £100 million of revenue for the local economy. It’s now the largest free event in Europe and has become one of the world’s top five air shows. Much like Disney’s Cars which spawned a winged sibling this year, the Air Festival will be joined next year by the Wheels Festival. Using the air show as a blueprint, the plan is to replicate the success and attract around 360,000 people to the event over the late May Bank Holiday with a similar boost to the economy.
steve cook Editor Seeker News
It’s estimated that 67% of people that attend the Air Festival live locally, but that still means that they’re hoping to bring 120,000 extra people into the town for the Wheels Festival.
With the increasing number of beachfront restaurants and the demise of the IMAX the seafront area is vastly improved and the free concerts on the site are proving a great success with everything from the BSO to Voice contestants and tribute acts. And now the icing has been applied to the cake, our own Angel of the North (according to one councillor), the £76,000 Welcome to Bournemouth sign over the Spur Road. It may be just a sign, and it may only be around £1,000 worth of signage, but it is £10k under budget and it does make a statement. Now, if only we could hang some air fresheners off it so that visitors aren’t treated to the combined odours of the sewage works and pig farm either side of our new sign.
TOP 5 STORIES ON SEEKER NEWS.CO.UK
CROSSWORD SOLUTION
1) Camp Bestival live photo updates 2) Bournemouth girls’ artwork chosen for London show 3) Charity in the frame for art exhibition 4) Young Magpies entertain MacDougall’s Young Americans 5) Wheels Festival to launch in Bournemouth
To receive every issue of Seeker News in the post visit www.seekernews.co.uk/subscription
Don’t forget to submit your stories, email news@seekernews.co.uk
1) Boffin, 2) United, 3) Intact, 4) Unobserved, 6) Hard cash, 7) Catholic, 8) Aprés ski, 13) Mozzarella, 15) Wardrobe, 16) Atlantic, 17) A fair cop. 19) Sequel, 20) Tidier, 21) Agency.
DOWN
Boutique, 5) Cha-cha, 9) Friction, 10) Crater, 11) In excess, 12) Across, 14) Broomstick, 18) Antifreeze, 22) Draw in, 23) Briefing, 24) Optics, 25) Illusion, 26) Escape, 27) Earl Grey.
ACROSS
seeker news 3
august 23-SEPTEMBER 5 2013
NEWS
picture: CHRIS HADFIELD
Fight returns bus service to town
People power has seen a bus service restored to a Dorset town. When bus routes from Wimborne Road West, Leigh Road and the surrounding roads were cut earlier this year more than 200 people signed a petition in protest.
T
But their frustration turned to relief when independent bus operator Gardbus announced it would run a regular bus service along the route from September 30.
UNITED WE STAND?
he latest campaign to unite Poole, Bournemouth and Christchurch as a single civic entity has renewed its calls for union.
The Uniting the Conurbation group wants to see the three towns come together as the City of Poole Bay to share services, avoiding duplication and cutting costs. Christchurch Borough Council already works with East Dorset and North Dorset district councils as the Stour Valley Partnership. Purbeck District Council has said it would like to join the Christchurch and East Dorset Partnership. Poole Council has also considered sharing services.
for the whole hog,” UTC campaigner David Trenchard, a leader of Bournemouth Council in the 1980s, told the BBC.
“The government has asked the local councils to come up with a plan to reduce the number of councils. They are not exactly responding very positively to that suggestion, but at a stroke you could reduce the number of councillors for every ward to one and you’d immediately have an overall council at a third of the present size. “Let’s look at the conurbation geographically it is one place. All the businesses that work here and the people that live here - they live in one community.”
But the union of Poole, Bournemouth and Christchurch envisaged by Uniting the Conurbation (UTC) would be much broader in scope.
The idea has been around for at least 40 years, but the last time it was considered by local authorities in the 1990s, councillors from across the region opposed it, saying each town needed to retain control of its finances and civic identities.
“What we are concerned about is that these little working partnerships that are being developed are an excuse not to go forward
“For local council tax payers, I would suggest [it was] a very bad idea, and one that will cost a great deal of money without actually delivering
The Romans are coming!
The world’s oldest Roman re-enactment group, the Ermine Street Guard is to visit Priest’s House Museum in Wimborne on August 31. Visitors will meet a small group of fully-equipped legionaries and officers with an accompanying display of Roman artefacts. A Roman catapulta, used for launching arrows at the enemy, will also be on show from 11am. Now in its 41st year the Ermine Street Guard is dedicated to the research and reconstruction of authentic Roman armour and equipment.
Limited stock still at half price
better services,” said Cllr John Beesley, leader of Bournemouth Borough Council. Poole council leader Elaine Atkinson has previously said the three councils already have joint appointments in adult social services, saving some £700,000 a year, and all belong to the Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership, but doubts the UTC campaign will be successful. “Beyond my lifetime, I’m sure it will happen, but I can’t see it on the table at the moment,” she told reporters. David McIntosh, chief executive of Christchurch and East Dorset Partnership, added: “Whilst the principle is sensible, the practicalities of going from where we are to a unitary in the south east Dorset conurbation is quite a big task and not one that I believe would be worthwhile.” Some 380,000 people live in Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch and are represented by 120 councillors between the three councils. Have your say - letters@seekernews.co.uk
The 132 service will run every two hours, Monday to Friday, from Ringwood to Wimborne via Ferndown. And the Ameysford Road area of Ferndown, which has been without bus services for some years, will also be included.
Opinions heard on gyratory
Local people and businesses have been giving their views on how to improve the gyratory system for cyclists and walkers in Poole. The council has put two options up for discussion that would make changes to West Street and West Quay Road with cycleway, zebra crossings and junction improvements with new pedestrian crossings. The estimated £400,000 cost is aimed at making immediate improvements to the roads while a longer term supplementary planning document is updated. Around 9,800 leaflets have been sent to residents.
BY THE FIRE of Westbourne
01202 760760 www.bytheereonline.co.uk bytheere@hotmail.co.uk
34-36 Seamoor Road
(1st oor above Ripples Bathrooms)
Westbourne, BH4 9AS
4 seeker news
news
125 jobs lost as Mostyns closes
Mostyns Curtains, the Christchurch-based soft furnishings company, has folded with the loss of 125 jobs. The company, which has been trading since 1950, went into administration last month. A statement on the firm’s website says: “A buyer has been found for the remaining stock but it has not been possible to sell the business as a going concern.” Its 27 stores have stopped trading and the factory has closed.
Charity needs a little youth help
A Boscombe-based children’s charity is looking for young people to help from across the county. The Dorset Children’s Foundation was started in March by Scott and Patsy Hallmey to make as many donations to worthy causes as possible. So far it has handed over more than £6,000. Donations have included a three-day trip to London for a family with a teenager with multiple difficulties and £1,000 to Springbourne Family Centre, to be spent on multi-sensory equipment.
august 23-SEPTEMBER 5 2013
big questions asked on dorset healthcare future
D
orset’s health organisations are canvassing local people for feedback on NHS care in the county. The Big Ask is a unique survey open to everyone to share their NHS experiences to help improve healthcare in Dorset. It runs until September and hopes to gather views on a whole range of NHS services, from local GP and out of hours’ services to community, mental health and hospital services. Bournemouth University is managing the research and the results will be fed back in October. Some 12,000 households will receive a printed survey through the post and anyone can complete the survey online. Of particular interest is the way in which dementia is treated in Dorset. A degenerative condition of the brain affecting around 820,000 people in the UK, it affects the memory, makes learning new tasks more difficult and impacts a person’s ability to look after themselves. With an ageing population, the numbers are set to double by 2030 and double again by 2050. Dr Sue Hazel is the lead consultant
their induction.”
At Poole Hospital, elderly care consultant Dr Premila Fade is particularly proud of their flagship dementia ward, Lulworth, where changes to the environment have been used to help patients. “We have improved the environment to make it much more welcoming for dementia patients by improving the colours and lighting,” she says. “A hospital visit can be very confusing and anything we can do to make the environment easier to navigate will help.”
Dr Sue Hazel with colleagues at Royal Bournemouth Hospital
in dementia care at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital and heads the implementation of the National Dementia Strategy, which has been the catalyst for change across the Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch hospitals and at Poole Hospital. “To recognise dementia is an illness is very important,” explains Sue. “This is all about person-centred care and we run a rolling training programme for all clinical staff and all healthcare assistants are trained about dementia on
Dorset Healthcare University NHS Foundation Trust is also leading a number of initiatives in the community. “Dementia is one of the biggest challenges we face as a society and our Memory Support Team aims to make living and caring for someone with dementia in Dorset a little easier,” says Elaine Brown, Dorset HealthCare’s dementia, dignity and memory support lead. The Big Ask survey can be completed online at www.bournemouth.ac.uk/ thebigask. Paper copies can be requested on 01202 961379 or emilner@bournemouth. ac.uk.
Diamond day for care home
To find out more, visit the Foundation’s shop at 695697 Christchurch Road, or call 01202 390011.
Museum plans sparked into life
Residents, staff and their families had a fine time in the sunshine as The Fearnes care home in Bournemouth celebrated its annual summer fare in the gardens. Local entertainer Diamond Leigh opened the event and provided plenty of fun and games for visitors as they browsed a range of stalls, including bric a brac, book and cake stalls, as well as a raffle with a top cash prize of £100. There were also traditional games, a tombola, guess the number of sweets in a jar and hook-a-duck, while singing duo the Land Girls performed Abba songs.
Plans to regenerate Christchurch Museum of Electricity have received a shot in the arm.
Mission Ignition, a group formed to re-open the popular museum as a science and engineering discovery centre, was extremely well received at the recent Stompin’ on the Quomps music event. The group set up a stall to inform people of their plans and give youngsters the chance to try a few experiments. Last December SSE announced they could not afford to keep the museum running and were closing it down, but after meetings with local people subsequently agreed to include the community in future plans. A survey to gauge public support for the scheme can be found at www.missionignition.com
Good book and some good films Ladies wanted for town sea parade
Using blockbuster movies to shed some light on the Bible, St John’s Church in Wimborne is to show extracts from popular movies on Sundays in September from 6.30pm. The idea is that the films will
help to delve into some great Biblical truths through the eyes of Hollywood. Vicar Peter Breckwoldt explained: “It is remarkable how some of the great movies deal with some of life’s big questions.”
Organisers of the Marriage of the Sea Parade, in Bournemouth on September 22, are looking for women and teenage girls to take part in the 6pm procession. It’s part of the town’s Arts by the Sea Festival and participants must
like dressing up and singing and be free on September 15 and 22 for a rehearsal and performance. The procession is a reinterpretation of a 1,000-yearold Venetian ritual. See www. artsbournemouth.org.uk
seeker news 5
august 23-SEPTEMBER 5 2013
NEWS
Farm grabs town’s 14th Green Flag
picture: Steve cook
Slades Farm residents are celebrating after it became the latest Bournemouth park to land a Green Flag Award.
It brings the town’s Green Flag tally to 14, recognising its high standards, beauty and excellent facilities.
opinion divided
Slades Farm has benefited from a major facelift in recent years with the addition of Bournemouth Cycling Centre, a paths network, children’s playground and community food growing project. With the involvement of local clubs, residents and community groups, the park has become a much more popular venue.
B
Fossils plans for disused quarry
ournemouth’s bright new sign is certainly dividing opinion. The council’s tourism chief Cllr Lawrence Williams has compared it to the Angel of the North, saying: “This type of signage makes a statement about our town and the community it represents as well as a significant contribution to the way an area is perceived.”
Des Simmons Tourism is the lifeblood of the town’s economy. Anything to help improve the “Welcome” and the visitor’s perception of the destination is definitely worth the investment.
But opposition councillors argue it is too expensive, particularly as council services are being cut back to save money. Now the public is speaking and within hours of sharing a photo of the £76,000 illuminated ‘Welcome to Bournemouth’ sign on our Facebook page hundreds of readers had posted their views.
Daniel Ford The money could have been spent on giving Throop Mill a cafe, or subsidise local parking rates for residents/non tourists in the overpriced carparks/metered roads! Complete waste of money!
Elaine Donovan Complete waste of money - whoever had the final say on this should be ashamed of themselves - people are struggling to put food on the table and pay bills - that money could be put to far better use.
Here’s a cross section of the more considered opinions:
Jules Mackle I like it, and so does my son, we saw it yesterday driving home from a very exhausting but good day at Legoland and it felt good to see it and be home.
Chris Walker Is it just me or has it been placed next to the area that always smells of sewage as an ‘ironic gesture’?
Neil Farrelly Considering the council cut the lights in the Gardens because it’s too expensive, I’d say, it speaks for itself.
Helping the village people
Plans to turn a disused Dorset stone quarry into a top class visitor attraction to house thousands of fossils have been unveiled.
Bill Perkins The 76k included the cost of cleaning, repairing, improving and repainting the whole bridge which hadn’t been touched since it went up and the type face is intended to match that at Boscombe Pier.
The £85 million Jurassica scheme would showcase exhibits from the Natural History Museum that aren’t currently displayed and involves putting a glass roof over the old Yeolands Quarry on Portland.
Julie Hardman I like the sign but not the cost! Rob Breeds Money wasted aside, it’s a hopeless effort. No vision for the future, no identity. Completely unremarkable. Plymouth, Southampton, Portsmouth... all convey the essence of their cities with simpler, more cost effective signs.
The group backing the scheme claim it is supported by the likes of Sir David Attenborough and Tim Smit of the Lost Gardens of Heligan and the Eden Project. They say Jurassica could create 200 permanent jobs, with a further 300 contributory jobs and bring up to 950,000 visitors in its first year.
Lily Johnson Angel of the North? More like the Devil of the South or is that the council who sanctioned it? What a waste, I thought we were short of money. Keri Walton Oh well At least it didn’t cost as much as the Twins Sails bridge!
Transform your life with a Kinetico water softener
the best kept secret in every home! hard water
soft water
Jump into a crystal clear, limescale-free shower...
Locals are being encouraged to have their say as a consultation seeking views on how Holdenhurst Village in Bournemouth should be protected gets underway. A Conservation Area Appraisal for Holdenhurst Village East and West has been written, inviting feedback to help inform how the areas should be protected and improved for the future. Holdenhurst Village East and West are currently two separate conservation areas that make up the 21 conservation areas in Bournemouth recognised for their special architectural and historic interest. Residents can view the appraisal and give feedback by visiting www.bournemouth.gov.uk/holdenhurstvillage.
hard water
soft water
...then snuggle into softer, cleaner, brighter towels. Visit us or book your free home survey: 34-36 Seamoor Rd, B’mouth BH4 9AS 01202 653006 • www.ukh2o.com
UKh o 2
6 seeker news
news Decide on Poole council’s future There are just a few days left for locals to have their say on the future of Poole Borough Council. The independent Local Government Boundary Commission for England is asking local people if they think Poole should continue to be represented by 42 councillors or whether 38 members should be elected to the council in future.
As previously reported, the public consultation is the first part of the Commission’s electoral review which will also consider changes to the number, names and boundaries of all the council’s wards. To have your say, log on to consultation.lgbce.org.uk or www. lgbce.org.uk. The current phase of consultation closes on September 2.
august 23-SEPTEMBER 5 2013
Children pack Quay for Play Day
Centre flying high with support A local wildlife centre has plenty to ‘Crow’ about after a company agreed to sponsor 50 of its birds. Liberty’s Owl, Raptor and Reptile Centre at Crow, near Ringwood, was thrilled when The Wessex Group decided to celebrate its 50th anniversary by sponsoring a bird for every year it has been in business. Each month the company is giving ‘50 somethings’ to a good cause or charity. Liberty’s is named after an Alaskan Bald Eagle and acts as a rescue centre for birds of prey that have been injured or need care. “We are very grateful to the Wessex Group for their help,” says
Lynda Bridges, who owns Liberty’s. “Although we are a visitor attraction we rely on donations to operate.” Chris Stott, managing director of Wessex Fire & Security, one of the companies in the group, adds: “Our logo includes an owl so I was particularly pleased that the group will be helping these marvellous creatures.”
Hundreds of children descended on Christchurch Quay for the annual free Play Day organised by the council’s play rangers. There was a range of activities for the children to get involved in, including a drumming workshop, a circus skills workshop, slacklining, face painting, the NEOS machine, a bucking bronco and a bouncy castle. The sunny weather added to the enjoyment and families took advantage of it to picnic and relax in the beautiful setting next to the
water. Senior play ranger, Sophie Hutchinson, said: “The Play Day has been a great success and it was wonderful to see so many children enjoying themselves on the various activities. “Although it’s important for children to have fun, play is also vital for their development and for them to learn new skills.” The play rangers will continue to offer free play sessions on a number of sites in Christchurch for the rest of the summer holidays.
Not wild about European policy
D
orset Wildlife Trust is warning that European policy could be bad for local wildlife. The latest Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reforms could put Dorset’s hedgerows, wild meadows and grasslands at risk if measures that once stood to benefit European wildlife are diluted in a series of exemptions. “Dorset Wildlife Trust is trying to influence new agri-environmental, greening and rural development plans in a bid to secure the best deal for biodiversity and the environment from very constrained resources,” says Debbie Watkins, manager of the West Dorset Living Landscape team. The fear is that meetings between the EU Commission, MEPs and agriculture ministers will unravel years of improved biodiversity. Some 40% of Dorset is protected as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, of which 85% is under active agricultural management. The fear is that CAP payments currently focussed on the environment will be undermined by compromises. For example, the area farmers are now required to identify for nature (Ecological
Focus Areas or EFAs) will fall from 7% to 5% – a measure only applicable to a percentage of arable farms over 15 hectares. EFAs are often sited in field margins, which are hotspots for biodiversity and act as a sanctuary for some of the 1,064 farmland species identified in the State of Nature Report, of which 60% have decreased. Dorset Wildlife Trust is calling on the government to use the flexibility that the CAP reform has provided for EU member states to maximise positive outcomes for the environment. “There is still an opportunity for the UK to adopt an approach that is more robust than the extremely disappointing basic measures agreed,” says Paul Wilkinson, Head of Living Landscape for The Wildlife Trusts. “We recognise Secretary of State Owen Paterson’s stated commitment to improve the natural environment and call on him to ensure that the value for nature of EFAs and the other greening measures is maximised and to commit to supporting strategic planning of these areas across the farmed landscape.”
august 23-SEPTEMBER 5 2013
Baddies makes good in Edinburgh Fringe shows Regent Rep, the in-house theatre group at the Regent Centre in Christchurch, took the Edinburgh Festival Fringe by storm with their latest production, Baddies. Rave reviews firmly established their reputation as one of the UK’s leading theatre groups and come on the heels
of a high profile runners-up slot last year in Sky Arts TV’s prestigious The Nation’s Best Am Dram. Regent Rep performed Baddies at the Space on the Mile in a two-week run which Baddies director/writer Rob Walker and his cast of seven players hope to make a regular event.
Baddies is a one-act tragicomedy about how absurdly moviemakers and the media represent good and evil, making light of a dark reality. Regent Rep return to the Regent Centre to present JB Priestley’s classic play, An Inspector Calls from October 23 to 25.
recycling scheme welcomed
C
hristchurch and East Dorset are leading the way as recycling rates have soared following the introduction of the Recycle For Dorset scheme last year. Under the initiative, which was launched last October, residents have been sorting their waste into recycling, rubbish, food waste and garden waste. Half of East Dorset started using the service on October 29 with the recycling rate for the whole district rising from 42% in the third and fourth quarters of 2011/12 to 50% in the same period this year. And as the rest of East Dorset, along with North Dorset, adopted the new service in June, that rate is likely to rise even further. “These results show the Recycle For Dorset service is working and the positive comments received from residents show it is has been welcomed by the majority,” said Steve Burdis, director of the Dorset Waste Partnership. “The service is now being used by around half the households in Dorset and will be rolled out to the rest of the county in 2014 and 2015.” The amount of rubbish sent to landfill sites was also cut in the first six months with more than £350,000 saved on landfill tax and costs.
seeker news 7
news
African American Dorset GIs book
A new book exploring the stories of African American soldiers in Dorset during Second World War has been published. Written by Louisa Adjoa Parker and called 1944 We Were Here: African American GIs in Dorset, it is part of a project run by Development Education in Dorset in partnership with Walford Mill Crafts and the Priest’s House museum in Wimborne. The aim of the project was to gather stories about black servicemen in Dorset and to celebrate their presence here, as well as their contribution to World War II.
Beer Festival for Parley
Parley Rotary Club is to host a beer festival and family fun day on August 25 in aid of Parley First School. With bands playing from noon at Parley Sports Club, there will be a selection of real ales and ciders to sample as well as stalls, a bouncy castle, tug of war, coconut shy and face painting.
8 seeker news
august 23-SEPTEMBER 5 2013
newscharity
gym fan jazmine trains with her olympic hero A
young girl who loves gymnastics and has suffered from a rare form of cancer had her dream come true when she met her hero – Olympic ace Beth Tweddle MBE. Jazmine Martin, 11, was given the opportunity thanks to Round Table Children’s Wish, the Bournemouthbased charity that grants wishes for children with life-threatening illnesses. The youngster enjoyed a two-hour training session with Beth, in the Olympian’s home town of Liverpool. “It was really, really good. I watched Beth in the Olympics and it was amazing to meet her,” said
Jazmine, who was joined by sister Rosie, nine, for the training session.
“She was very friendly and we had a full session. She showed me what to do and how to improve.” Just five years ago Jazmine was diagnosed with Wilms’ Tumour on her left kidney, which grew to the size of a small football. She endured chemotherapy before having the tumour and kidney removed in a seven-hour operation. But the cancer, which usually only attacks organs, returned to her spine and Jazmine endured six months of intensive chemotherapy, radiotherapy
and stem cell treatment because it was too dangerous to operate. Her swift recovery amazed doctors and she was able to resume her hobby of gymnastics, which resulted in her meeting with Beth Tweddle thanks to RTCW. “It was absolutely brilliant and we are so grateful to Round Table Children’s Wish,” said Jazmine’s mum, Beth Fairburn. “Jazmine was a bit star-struck at first but she soon got over it. Beth was so lovely and kind.” Since opening its doors in 1990, RTCW has granted more than 1,500 wishes.
Beth Tweddle and Jazmine Martin
IT firm raises £3,000 for hospice The Big Sleep Out Call for Great South Run raisers Poole-based IT company Codestone has raised £3,000 for Julia’s House, the Dorset children’s hospice. For the second year in a row, all proceeds from Codefest, the company’s mini music festival for staff, have been donated to Julia’s House to help maximise the quality of life for Dorset youngsters with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions. “As an established company founded and head-quartered in
Dorset, Codestone is proud to be a supporter of Julia’s House,” said managing director Jeremy Bucknell: “We are pleased we can raise and donate some much needed funds to help the charity continue the great work.” Sue Miles, business fundraiser at Julia’s House was delighted to accept the cheque from Jeremy: “The £3,000 donated by all the staff, family and friends who came along will pay for 100 hours of care,” she said.
The second BCHA Big Sleep Out is on September 6 and the Bournemouth-based charity is recruiting volunteers to support the vital work it does helping street homeless out of danger. Registration is £10 per person or £30 for a family or group of four, with a minimum of £50 sponsorship for an individual or £150 for a group of four. For more details and a registration form visit www.bcha.org.uk/ donations-and-support/bcha-events. aspx.
Fundraisers for Diverse Abilities Plus are to take part in the Great South Run in Portsmouth on October 27. And the charity is urging more keen runners to take part and join Joe Thompson, from Ferndown, who is taking part as one of his four challenges in 2013 for the Dorset charity. The other three challenges consist of a 20.13 mile combination of static bike ride, rowing machine and treadmill
in the gym this month, the Kamikaze Run in September (an eight-mile obstacle course) and the Bournemouth Half Marathon at the start of October. Diverse Abilities Plus is very important to Joe and his wife as his son, who has autism and learning difficulties, is supported by the charity so that he can live his life to the full. To sign visit www. diverseabilitiesplus.org.uk.
Help offered with payment claims Having drive and determination
Disability Wessex, the advisory service offered by Diverse Abilities Plus, the only Dorset-based charity that supports children and adults with physical and learning disabilities, is offering assistance with Personal Independent Payment claims, which has replaced Disability Living Allowance. A number of advisors have been trained following the launch of the new benefit in June, to ensure they can support those with disabilities in the local area. The advisors are now able to assist clients with the initial claim application (usually undertaken over the phone) and the main application form. The first stage is relatively short and simple, but the second stage requires the applicant to fill out a lengthy booklet of questions.
John, a new client of Disability Wessex, needed help completing his form as he was unable to focus for long enough to complete the document on his own and was unable to explain all of his mental health conditions. Without the help of the advisor he would not have explained exactly how his condition affects his daily life and this would have made a difference
to whether he received a Personal Independent Payment. “I would not have been able to complete the form correctly without Disability Wessex,” said John. “I am therefore extremely grateful for the support and assistance they provided.” For further information visit www. diverseabilitiesplus.org.uk or call 0300 3305514.
It’s something the sighted community takes for granted, but for thousands of people living with visual impairment the simple pleasure of driving is denied them. Until now... Dorset Blind Association recently teamed up with Somerset Sight and 2nd2none Driving School to offer members a chance to get behind the wheel at Henstridge Airfield in North Dorset. “Driving is the one thing that my younger members tell me they would love to do,” says Leah Cross, a home support coordinator for Dorset Blind Association. With instructors James Orgar and Eric Johnson providing tuition in their dual control cars, Leah says the young drivers were “exhilarated” and plans
Adrian Reigate to run more sessions in the future. “I am on cloud nine,” said Dorset driver Evie Klamar. Russell Parsons, from Somerset, said: “It’s an experience I never thought I would have. It was exhilarating, like a fairground ride.” Adrian Reigate, from Somerset, added: “It’s weird, I felt so alive.
It gave me a feeling of normality.” Dorset Blind Association helps up to 1,000 blind or partially sighted people each month but receives no regular government funding and relies on donations, grants and legacies. To help call 01202 712869, visit www.dorsetblind.org. uk or send donations to 17 Bournemouth Road, Lower Parkstone, Poole BH14 0EF.
seeker news 9
august 23-SEPTEMBER 5 2013
news
castaways’ VOYAGE OF DISCOVERY
A
s more brave souls sign up to the Seeker News Castaway Challenge their instructor is once again preparing to guide them on what could be an amazing journey. “I am a big believer in you get out what you put in,” says ex-Royal Marine Nigel Startin, who now runs Intrepid Expeditions and teaches survival curses all over the world. Next month he’ll be taking the Seeker News Castaway Challenge participants to a secret location where they’ll learn survival techniques, from how to build a shelter and keep warm to pooling their resources to make sure they stay fed. The course is being run in aid of Diverse Abilities Plus, the Dorset-based charity that supports children and adults with physical and learning difficulties. “Most discover themselves again on these courses,” adds Nigel. “In life you put bits of yourself on hold
by NICK CHURCHILL
without even realising it. You may be busy running a business or job, being a parent, running around all the time, mobile phones going, email, everybody wanting a piece of you, and often trying to be the person in society that everybody expects you to be. “However, when your primary focus is you and you only have yourself to think about even though you may have friends and family, you need to rely on your own wits and this is where the old you comes back. “This is what people call lifechanging. Is it, or have you just met your old self again and quite like who you are?” Asked what the participants including Seeker News editor Steve Cook - can expect to encounter on the Challenge, Nigel laughs: “Hunger, isolation, cold or hot, wet, sleep deprivation, lonely... nothing too drastic just your normal out-of-yourcomfort-zone apprehensions!”
Meet the latest to sign up...
He’s also under no illusions about how the five days of the Challenge will progress. It’s no walk in the park and he knows he’s the person the participants will focus their feelings on. “Most hate me at first,” he says. “It doesn’t matter, I’m used to it. But by the end of the week they realise actually I’m not that bad and I am on their side. “The group initially look like startled rabbits in the headlights. However, by the end of the week they flourish and adopt a scavenger, non-materialist, can-do attitude. “When a group of people mixed with some bad weather and some not-so normal tasks to achieve things start to change, it brings the most amazing close friendships I have ever seen.” Good news then for the Seeker News Castaway Challenge adventurers.
James Harris
“Bushcraft and survival skills are something that I started learning at a young age, after being bought a copy of the SAS Survival Skills book one birthday. I feel at home in the woods and friends call me Bear J as I practically live out in the wild. “My girlfriend is a support worker, working with young adults with physical and learning disabilities. I’ve seen first hand the support these people need and the benefits of receiving it.”
We’ll pay the VAT
Nigel Startin
“This is what people call life-changing. Is it, or have you just met your old self again and quite like who you are?”
Save Time Save Money
Amy Kerr “My camping experience has been pretty limited in recent years, but I have for the last three years survived camping at the Isle of Wight festival. This type of challenge is always something that I have wanted to try to test myself to see how I would cope without my home comforts. As a child I was a bit of a tom boy and I have always been pretty practical so hopefully this will help me. “I am looking forward to challenging myself and learning the survival techniques at the same time as raising funds for Diverse Abilities Plus. You never know it may also lead to a change of career - the female version of Bear Grylls or Ray Mears.”
Harry Ereth-Purves “During my time in the Forces I used to instruct on health in cold climates to all forces stationed in Germany. That’s where I got the camping survival bug. “Although I am a general builder by trade I now work at a special needs school in Kent. The kids at our school never cease to amaze me and inspire me by their courage and tenacity in their daily lives. The school motto is basic but profound - Where There Is A Will, Together We Will Find A Way - and so true throughout life. “This is the reason I decided to take the Castaway Challenge, to raise some funds to help.” The Seeker News Castaway Challenge is sponsored by the Cumberland Hotel and is grateful for the support of Powerboat Training UK. It runs September 21-25 and is open to anyone over 18 years old. To find out more or to sign up visit www.diverseabilitiesplus.org.uk/events or call 01202 718266.
Have you always wanted the kitchen of your dreams, but can’t quite justify paying the expensive price tag that comes with it?
Before
Now you can by just swapping the doors & worktops.
• Trusted reputation • Huge choice of doors, worktops, appliances, sinks & taps • From doors to complete kitchens • Installed in 1-2 days by professionals
Call Angela for a FREE estimate: 01202 695856 Proud members of
Visit our Showroom: 185 Lower Blandford Road, Broadstone, Poole, Dorset BH18 8DH
www.dreamdoors.co.uk
Find us on
10 seeker news
BUSINESS S
tudies consistently show that UK managers spend up to 60% of their time dealing with people-related problems, leaving just 40% to work on the organisation’s primary objectives. Understanding employees’ individual personality types, behavioural makeup, motivations and core competencies assists managers to communicate more effectively, create an environment where employees will motivate themselves, improve morale and to increase productivity. Yet management so often relies on gut feelings and applies one-size-fits-all systems and processes when handling their people. All of this is compounded when new hires are integrated into teams without managers really knowing much beyond the new employee being technically capable of doing the job they have been recruited to perform. Consultants at Rubicon People employ recruitment tools to assist their clients
august june23-SEPTEMBER 28-july 11 2013 5 2013 to select new team members who will culturally fit, meet the motivational style of the management team, display behavioural traits that meet operational requirements and, of course, who are qualified and experienced to add value as quickly as possible. Managers benefit from an awareness of their team members’ behavioural traits that include productivity, quality of work, initiative, response to stress and conflict, problem solving and selfmotivation while understanding their core competencies. These include adaptability, client focus, communication, results orientation and organisational awareness to provide a valuable stepping stone for improving productivity. Rubicon’s unique recruitment specification provides invaluable insight into these management tools and not only helps select the perfect candidates for employers to consider, but can also provide a catalyst to revitalise existing teams with a new insight.
H
ow do you rate your business? Successful, unlucky, the next best thing, out of step, out of time, out of credit? Tough times, but some problems can be of your own making, somewhere you are the victim of circumstance and somewhere you are prone to the inefficiency of others. Take business rates – yes, take them away I hear you cry! The government’s commissioned Portas Report on the state of our high streets gave us all food for thought and the Valuation Office Agency apply their formula which sees shops on the sunny side of the street paying more than their neighbours opposite – it’s a technical as that in some areas! The British Chambers of Commerce have stated that they have long regarded the business rates system as flawed. We can appeal and some do get reviewed in the business owner’s favour, but it’s still a tax on trading long before your till starts ringing and with falling footfall on high streets one wonders where the government thinks the
NIGEL HEDGES
money is coming from to meet bills that swell with no relation to reality on valuations from a previous time of plenty. Business rates were introduced in 1988 when the ill-fated Poll Tax replaced domestic rates. It is agreed that the system is highly complicated where small shops can be disproportionately charged on the front 20 feet nearest the window, which command a higher rate. A business rates amnesty would be the quickest win to save the high street and we have hope for the government’s proposed Localism Bill where councils will keep the business rates. What’s the betting even if our councils want to use it to support business, Westminster will claw back slightly more from another source?
A
business must register if its taxable supplies exceed the current limit of £79,000. However, you can register voluntarily if your supplies are less than this level. VAT can affect competition too. Take a plumber who works for the general public. He is likely to be at a disadvantage if he has to register for VAT as he may well have to charge up to 20% more than a plumber who is not registered just to earn the same profit. If on the other hand the same plumber only works for other VAT registered businesses, such as building companies, then potentially it will not matter whether he is registered because the customer will be able to recover the VAT that he is charging. Indeed, he will be better off registering, as he should be able to reclaim VAT on purchases, which will improve his profit. However, registration comes at the cost of having to meet record keeping requirements and a fundamental need to get it right as there are heavy fines for failing to operate
lucy filer Filer Knapper, Chartered Accountants
the system properly. So, you should consider carefully whether to register voluntarily. If the VAT at stake is relatively small, the responsibilities of registering or remaining registered may outweigh the benefit. There are various VAT schemes designed to reduce administration and/or improve cash flow for the smaller business. This is just an overview of current legislation so please do take specific professional advice. We would be happy to discuss this or any other accounting or tax issue. For a free consultation please call Lucy on 01202 483341 or email info@ filerknapper.co.uk Filer Knapper LLP 10 Bridge Street, Christchurch, BH23 1EF www.filerknapper.co.uk 01202 483341
A commercial approach to legal advice We work with all types of businesses and business people from all sectors - from start-ups who want to turn a good idea into great success, to multinationals that turn to us for our global expertise. We work to help your company achieve its goals, and we work hard to ensure it stays on track - growing stronger and becoming more profitable, well into the future. When it comes to expert legal matters, we like to think few firms come close to the experience and expertise we can offer. • Adjudication • Arbitration • Banking • Business Sales & Purchase • Business Start-ups • Commercial Contracts • Commercial Litigation & Mediation • Commercial Property • Consumer Law • Construction Law • Corporate Reorganisation • Debt Recovery • Employment • Information Technology • Intellectual Law • Joint Ventures • Litigation • Mediation • Mergers & Acquisitions • Partnerships & LLPs
Bournemouth 01202 421111
Crewkerne 01460 279100
Ilminster 01460 52293
Dorchester 40 High West Street, Dorchester DT1 1UR t: 01305 251 007 f: 01305 251045 e: dorchester@hklaw.eu Poole 3 Acorn Business Park, Ling Road, Poole BH12 4NZ t: 01202 725400 f: 01202 715877 e: poole@hklaw.eu
www.hklaw.eu
Parkstone 01202 715815
Swanage 01929 423301
Wareham 01929 552141
seeker news 11
august 23-SEPTEMBER 5 2013
business
Motorhome boost
Abacus, the Ferndown-based motorhome hire specialists, have seen a 15% increase in booking enquiries in the last few weeks. Dave Wolfenden, managing director of Abacus, says after a cold spring, which saw booking levels lower than all previous years, the future looks bright as people are now encouraged to book for August and September.
Gordon Page, chairman of Dorset LEP
LEP to host conference
Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) will host its first growth conference, Focusing on our Future, at Lighthouse, Poole on October 11. This Conference is free for Dorset-based businesses and will not only inform businesses about the Dorset LEP’s successes since its launch last May, but will also demonstrate its desire to deliver growth programmes as early as possible with secure buyin by the local business community. Booking details can be found at www.dorsetlep. co.uk.
Pubs raise cash
Is Windows XP closing for business?
W
ith only eight months before Microsoft withdraws support on its still widely used operating systems Windows XP and Office 2003, companies must have a plan to switch operating systems or face security issues warn Poole-based IT firm Innovate. From April 8 next year, Microsoft will stop providing security updates and those firms using Windows XP
and Office 2003 beyond this date will be exposed to cyber attacks, security breaches and theft. To help local companies understand what this means and what can be done to alleviate the issues, Innovate will be running a free workshop on September 13 titled The Death of XP and Office 2003 – what next for SMEs? from its office in Poole. David Pape, managing director at Innovate, says: “XP and 2003
new training centre to boost apprenticeships
A
Since last July, the 52 public houses in the Hall & Woodhouse Estate and the Hall & Woodhouse Brewery have raised more than £125,000 for Naomi House and Jacksplace.
new Financial Services Training Centre is being launched by Bournemouth & Poole College and promises a boost to apprenticeships in the region. The College is working with the National Skills Academy for Financial Services to create the new centre and is the latest progressive development for the college following the launch of its new STEM Centre (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) and Marine Centre this year. There are already some 7,000 people believed to be working in financial services in Bournemouth and Poole. And with experts predicting an eight per cent growth in the number of people working in the sector by 2018, the college has identified the need to both broaden training and create a pipeline of talent. From September a dedicated centre will open at the college’s Lansdowne campus.
It will focus on developing relevant skills for working in financial services through bespoke apprenticeship training and full – or part-time programmes of study either at the college or in the workplace.
“By delivering knowledge and skills development we will provide work-ready individuals to help this key sector to continue to flourish,” said Lawrence Vincent, principal of Bournemouth & Poole College. “Other large – and medium-sized players from the area in financial services are also promising their support in the venture and the college itself has produced a manifesto of its aims which are simple, direct and addressed to the community.” Even before the doors are open the global financial services business JP Morgan, which has a substantial presence in Bournemouth, will be offering 26 apprenticeships.
users are likely to face very serious problems in the future. Their whole business could be compromised and we are encouraging everyone who has not upgraded to make plans as soon as possible. There are many alternatives including Cloud but doing nothing is likely to be a dangerous stance.” To book a place, please telephone Adrian Pitt on 0330 999 1000 or email apitt@innovate.uk.com.
Naomi House has been Hall & Woodhouse’s chosen charity since July 2011 and over the past two years, the teams have raised a total of £228,997.
Trust recruiting
Quay Foyer charitable trust is seeking to recruit new trustees with a commitment to young people. For information contact the secretary Anne Harling on 01189 099277, or at anne. harling@raglan.org.
Award Winning Business and Tax Advisers
Most Innovative
Medium Sized Firm in the UK Inspire is an accountancy firm with a difference. Our approach is fresh and innovative and is centred on the needs of our clients. We focus on providing proactive and commercial strategic advice to owner managed businesses and the entrepreneurs that run them. We are recognised as a specialist in our field and have a proven track record of making a real difference for our clients. We are very proud of the many awards that we have won which set us apart from other firms. Our highly experienced team possesses an unrivalled breadth and depth of experience, providing a real alternative to more traditional accounting firms.
Why go anywhere else?
t. 0800 0776410 www.inspire.uk.net 37 Commercial Road, Poole BH14 0HU e. info@inspire.uk.net
12 seeker news
august june23-SEPTEMBER 28-july 11 2013 5 2013
business Volley good star speaker for club
Commercial Insurance & Risk Management • • • • • • •
Top 100 Independent Broker in the UK (Insurance Age 2012) Only independent broker in Dorset with prestigious Chartered Insurance Broker status Dedicated team of commercial insurance experts based in Poole & Gillingham Competitive premiums from the UK’s leading insurers Policies tailored to the needs of each business Discounts and enhancements negotiated on behalf of clients Free risk management service for every client to help with issues such as health & safety
Contact us for your free review and no obligation quotation
01202 754900
quote@alan-thomas.co.uk
www.alan-thomas.co.uk BPEAJ.pdf
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
1
31/01/2013
14:56
Alan & Thomas Insurance Group is a trading name of Alan & Thomas Insurance Brokers Ltd who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority
Olympic volleyball star Zara Dampney is to address next month’s Poole Business Women’s Lunch Club. Zara, who grew up in Dorset and went to Parkstone Grammar School, will be talking about her journey to London 2012, how she learned from her mistakes and kept driving towards her ultimate goal. Meeting once a month at Storm in Poole, the PBWLC networking group offers the opportunity to meet contacts, hear from inspirational speakers and enjoy lunch at a top restaurant in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere. Zara is speaking on September 12 with tickets for the monthly event available at www.businesswomenslunchclub.co.uk.
Tourism review for partnership
C
hristchurch and East Dorset Partnership is to review the way it provides tourism information. The way potential visitors to the area look for information is changing to more online sources and that has influenced the decisions that the Partnership is taking. In Christchurch, the proposal is that the Council will no longer be involved in the running of the Information Centre with tourist information in future being provided by volunteers at the Regent Centre next door. The Information Centre building would become part of the Regent Centre and the council would assist the venue in setting up the new service. John Teather, chairman of the Regent Centre board of directors, said: “The Board are very keen to integrate the Information Centre and the Regent Centre to provide a seamless experience for visitors.
“We are confident that we can continue to provide a good level of service to the public.” In East Dorset a similar opportunity for the Wimborne Tourist Information Centre is being explored for a third party to take over the service before it closes in November. Matti Raudsepp, head of leisure and open spaces at the Christchurch and East Dorset Partnership, said: “This has not been an easy decision to make, but we are following the lead other councils from across the UK have taken to provide information for tourists in a different way. “Most people now go online to find the information about an area when planning a visit and that has made the need for dedicated tourist information centres significantly less relevant than they once were.” Final decisions concerning proposals for the Information Centres will go before councillors in September.
K
Shore thing for young apprentice Sam Sam Shore has become the first apprentice from Bournemouth & Poole College to achieve a Higher Apprenticeship in Engineering from SEMTA, the national body that oversees engineering training and apprenticeships. Sam, 24, from Southbourne, works for Superior Seals on Ferndown Industrial Estate, where he is carving out a career in the computer-aided seals design department. Craig Robinson, engineering apprenticeship manager at
the college said Sam had been a credit to the college and its apprenticeship programme and by becoming the first to achieve a Higher Apprenticeship he had blazed a trail for those young men and women who will follow in his footsteps. “It’s an honour to be the first to gain this award via the college. I have had great support over the years from trainers and tutors and if I have set a standard for others then so much the better,” says Sam.
seeker news 13
august 23-SEPTEMBER 5 2013
jobs saved as troubled skating firm is sold
P
oole-based online retailer Rawk has been sold in a pre-packaged sale that safeguards the firm’s five jobs after running into financial difficulties beyond its control. Accountancy and investment management group Smith & Williamson was appointed joint administrators and found a new owner within 10 working days. The deal also ensures a bank, as a secured creditor, was paid in full. Unsecured creditors are also set to see a dividend. Rawk sells skateboards, scooters, roller skates and related accessories, with the distribution centre at Nuffield Industrial Estate. Established 10 years ago, the e-commerce Greg Palfrey firm suddenly hit cash-flow problems when a particularly popular product line had to be withdrawn following stock issues. Rather than lose the confidence of customers, joint administrators Greg Palfrey and Steve
Designed by local business women for women in business across Dorset, we run informal, friendly and effective monthly events in Bournemouth, Wimborne & Christchurch. Our healthy breakfast meetings run from 9.00 to 11.00am and for just £15 include breakfast, inspirational speaker and stallholders. All are very welcome at DWiB meetings, to enjoy our coast and countryside venues, a healthy breakfast and an even healthier chance to network in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
A Sequal student at work
Winner of 2012’s Best Restaurant in Bournemouth, the Highcliff Grill serves locally-sourced fish, meats, shells and fine wines in a stunning location. Offering a mouthwatering four course Taste of Dorset menu for only £31.50 per person, the Highcliff Grill is Bournemouth’s best kept secret.
01202 649811 www.dwib.co.uk rsvp@dwib.co.uk
01202 200800 www.highcliffgrill.co.uk mhrs.bohbm.ays@marriotthotels.com
Advertise your vacancies with
Borough Council. Their jobs will involve painting and decorating work throughout the council’s parks and gardens, helping to keep Bournemouth bright and vibrant during the summer. Another graduate, Ross commented: “I did not expect things to move forward so quickly. It has been great to go from the course straight in to
a paid role. I am really pleased and proud.” Sequal Enterprises began delivering the painting and decorating course last year, adding carpentry and joinery to the syllabus early this year. In June, a horticultural qualification was introduced.
Tony Wilmot
Seeker News from as little as £10 (or FREE on the website!!!)
For more information visit sequalenterprises.co.uk.
Tracking a On the frontline of impressive growth rail increase The total number of rail passenger journeys in the South West increased to 45.9 million in 201112 – a 6.3% rise over the previous year – according to the latest figures from the Office of Rail Regulation. The number of rail journeys between the south west and other regions was also up – 23.9 million, an increase of 4.2%. There was an 8.7% increase in the number of journeys taken within the south west.
BUSINESSdirectory
Adshead, from the south coast office of Smith & Williamson in Southampton, advised on a pre-packaged sale rather than a closure of the business as there were insufficient funds to trade on to fund a potentially drawn-out business sale. “Rawk is a fundamentally sound business with an excellent product range, receiving high satisfaction scores from its loyal customers,” says Greg, who heads up recovery and restructuring services for Smith & Williamson. “But a stocking issue beyond its control meant an especially popular product line had to be discontinued, hitting the company disproportionately hard. “We are pleased to say that the swift course of action has resulted in the safeguarding of five Rawk jobs and the main secured creditor, a bank, getting all of its money back.” Rawk’s assets and name were acquired for an undisclosed sum by an unnamed company.
Student success in Sequal intake Sequal Enterprises, a training academy set up by Bournemouth Churches Housing Association (BCHA) to help more local people find employment, is celebrating the success of the first intake. Seven students have successfully completed their Level 1 Certificate in Painting and Decorating. Jeremy, one of the graduates said: “I found the course really instructive and well put together. The group was really good and I learnt a lot.” Since graduating three of the students have secured full-time positions with Bournemouth
business
Frontline Recruitment, which has an office in Weymouth, is celebrating a stellar first half of 2013, with turnover up by 40% and profits rising 60%. Tony Wilmot, director of Frontline Recruitment, said: “With confidence returning to the economy we’re finding our clients are expanding their teams. We’re way ahead of our predicted performance and we’re looking at record full year results for 2013. “Our team is responding well to the recovery and everybody is pulling in the right direction. We’ll be looking to expand the workforce in the second half of 2013 to meet this rising demand for our services.”
4cm single column in Seeker News (+ FREE online) only £20!
4cm double column in Seeker News (+ FREE online) only £30!
To place an ad visit
www.seekernews.co.uk/classifieds ww
14 seeker news
august june23-SEPTEMBER 28-july 11 2013 5 2013
HERITAGE
GOLDENYEARS
picture: KEVIN DOOLEY
Who played here in history
Bev Miller from Christchurch Antiquarian Society, Cllr Gillian Geary and tourism manager Ann Simon with the plaque
Get the right result with our inspired legal solutions
V
SOLICITORS
At Ellis Jones we are passionate about being involved with local businesses and our south coast community. We pride ourselves on being approachable, client focused, non-judgmental and providing clear non-legalistic advice. Ellis Jones has the brightest legal minds working in specialist departments that offer the full spectrum of legal services. We are here to support you to make the most of every opportunity and help you navigate through all of your legal issues. We look after our clients at every step of their lives. Visit our website to find out more about our services or contact your friendly Ellis Jones Team. T: 01202 525333 E: email@ellisjones.co.uk Ellis Jones Solicitors Sandbourne House, 302 Charminster Road, Bournemouth, Dorset BH8 9RU
www.ellisjones.co.uk
...Looking after you Bournemouth
Canford Cliffs
ringwood
swanage
the witch guide
isitors to the replica ducking stool at Christchurch can now find out more about the history of the medieval device. A new plaque installed by Christchurch Council after research by Christchurch Antiquarian Society explains the history of the ducking stool dating back to the 14th century. The move comes as a result of Antiquarian Society members who were carrying out archaeological digs in a garden on the other side of the stream overhearing visitors coming to view the stool asking questions about it. “It was obvious that people were intrigued by the history behind the ducking stool and we wondered if the council realised quite how many visitors came to see it,” says Bev Miller from the Antiquarian Society. The plaque now explains that, contrary to popular belief, it is unlikely that ducking stools were used to identify witches. Rather they were reserved for scolds – women found guilty of verbal abuse, brawling or other antisocial behaviour. Other local punishments included
“People were intrigued by the history behind the ducking stool”
whipping through the market, being put in the stocks, pillory and whirlygig (a type of spinning cage). The earliest documented evidence for a ducking stool in Christchurch is in a property deed dated May 1350 that mentions a ‘schulffyngstol’. Another dated September 1468 calls it a ‘shylvyngstole’. The last recorded use of a ducking stool in England was in 1809. Although the mill stream where the chair is now sited is very shallow, it would have been much deeper when the original stool was in use. It is possible that the stream widened at this point to form a pond into which the stool was plunged. “We’re very grateful to the members of the Antiquarian Society for researching the information which has been written on the plaque,” says tourism manager, Ann Simon. “I’m sure visitors to Christchurch will find the history behind the stool fascinating.”
10 years ago 23: Kelly Osbourne – BIC. 2-5: Daniel O’Donnell – BIC. 20 years ago 30: Howard Jones – Poole Arts Centre. 25 years ago 25: Bucks Fizz – Poole Arts Centre. 5: The Searchers + The Tremeloes – Poole Arts Centre. 30 years ago 23: Chas & Dave – Poole Arts Centre. 27: Showaddywaddy – Poole Arts Centre. 29, 30: Kid Creole & the Coconuts – Poole Arts Centre. 31: Matt Monro with the Syd Lawrence Orchestra – Poole Arts Centre. 5: Level 42 – The Academy. 35 years ago 24: Sham 69 – Village Bowl. 40 years ago 26: Suzi Quatro + String Driven Thing + Cockney Rebel – The Hard Rock, Chelsea Village, Bmth. 3: Dick Emery + Mark Wynter + The Dallas Boys – Winter Gardens. 45 years ago 23: Amboy Dukes + The Gass – Pavilion. 28: Fleetwood Mac – The Ritz – Their Peter Green heyday. 29: The Equals – Pavilion. 30: Alan Bown + The Brothers Bung – Pavilion. 50 years ago 23, 24: The Beatles + Billy J Kramer & the Dakotas etc – Gaumont. 23: Wes Sands + The Citizens + Zoot Money + Tony Blackburn & the Rovers – Pavilion 25, 1: Georgie Fame & the Blue Flames – Le Disque A Go Go. 28, 4: Manfred Mann – Le Disque A Go Go. 31: The Sandstorms – Le Disque A Go Go. 1: Shirley Bassey – Winter Gardens. 2: Dave Anthony – Le Disque A Go Go. 2: Winifred Atwell – Winter Gardens. 55 years ago 28, 4: Beverley Sisters + Bob Monkhouse – Winter Gardens. 31: Johnny Duncan & the Blue Grass Boys – Pavilion.
seeker news 15
august 23-SEPTEMBER 5 2013
lifestylefood&drink
Hotel joins as a founder
Sherborne’s Eastbury Hotel has joined the Dorset Food & Drink organisation as a founder member. Supported by the Dorset AONB Partnership including DEFRA, Natural England, the NFU, The National Trust, English Heritage, district and county councils, Dorset Food & Drink intends to promote and encourage a vibrant food and drink sector at a local level. “To be a founder member of this new food organisation for Dorset is very important to us at the Eastbury and our café bistro The Three Wishes,” says Nicky King, owner of the Eastbury Hotel. “Over the past ten years we have increased the amount of produce we source locally. “We are delighted that the new organisation will be shining a spotlight on the outstanding food and drink produced, created and served in so many locations around the county.”
Love and bait
Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall’s River Cottage HQ hosts a shoreline fishing expedition on September 5. What better way to cut your fishing teeth than on the Jurassic Coast in the company of River Cottage’s expert Sean McSeveney? Details on 01297 630302.
French market
Dorchester hosts its bank holiday French Market this weekend,an event which has been bringing large numbers of visitors to the county town since 2007.
hitting the pig time
D
orset dairy farmers Louise and Luke Trowbridge, founders of the award winning Uncommon Pig rare breed, are branching out – all over the world! Their novel Share A Beast feature on their new website, thedorsetfarmer.com, allows groups of people to buy premium, locallyreared beef with provenance. Louise is keen to make traditional free-range meat available to everyone at an affordable price.
“By selling our pork, other seasonal meats and local products direct from the farm customers are assured of dealing directly with us, whether it’s our family-friendly freezer packs of sausages or a glorious-tasting roasting joint,” she says. “Most importantly we want to share our family farming philosophy with everyone; helping people to learn more about farming and connect with food produced locally in Dorset.” The website explains traditional, high welfare family farming,
Traders open for business at 9am on Saturday, Sunday and Monday at the market’s new site in South Walks.
Teen pesto king
introducing the dairy herd on the 300-acre Stour Provost farm which provides milk for Barber’s traditional farmhouse cheddar cheese. The farm has also developed a wildlife area as part of an educational project with Dorset Wildlife Trust.
Dorset teenager Oli IcelyBrown knows a thing or two about good taste – the 15-year-old Gillingham School pupil has created a brand-new product for Sturminster Newton-based Olives Et Al – while on work experience!
The Uncommon Pig (Berkshire pigs producing pork and sausages that have been awarded Gold in the Great Taste Awards, as well as bacon and charcuterie) presented meat to HM The Queen as part of her Jubilee tour of Dorset.
Now Oli could see his basil, mixed nut and lemon pesto developed for a mainstream launch in the new year.
DON’T STAY IN ON A WINTER’S EVENING… Murder Mystery Dinner— Friday 18th October 2013. Put your detective skills to the test and use your intuition to discover whodunit, as the Murder Mystery evening returns to the Highcliff. Enjoy an apéritif on arrival and a fantastic three course menu with coffee to finish, for only £36.00 per person.
Pudding Club— Thursday 24th October 2013. Dine with our Executive Chef and indulge in ‘proper puddings’. Treat yourself to a selection of traditional homemade puddings, glass of wine and lashings of that all-important custard before casting your vote on ‘Pudding of the Night’. Only £25.00 per person or £40.00 per two people, an evening full of pure temptation!
Michael Bublé Tribute Night — Friday 15th November 2013. Listen to the smooth sounds of tribute act Mike All Bublé, recommended by the man himself! The perfect show for all ages to enjoy in tribute to one of the best swing artists in the world. Enjoy a welcome apéritif, three course menu and DJ to finish the fantastic evening in style, only £36.00 per person.
To book any of our fabulous events, contact our sales team on 01202 200816. For every 10 guests, 1 goes free! Quote “WINTER” to receive your discount!
BOURNEMOUTH HIGHCLIFF MARRIOTT HOTEL St. Michael’s Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH2 5DU T. 01202 557 702 | F. 01202 293 155 BournemouthHighcliffMarriott.co.uk
Marriott International 2013. Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply.
Live the ‘Highcliff’ Style
16 seeker news
august june23-SEPTEMBER 28-july 11 2013 5 2013
lifestyleWHERE TO GO Where to go and what to see for all the family AUGUST 24 Anonymous Family Festival
AUGUST 24 Stock Gaylard Oak Fair
With great live music and a whole host of activities and performances being put together, the Anonymous free festival at Maumbury Rings is out to give the county town a day to remember.
A day for those inspired by the countryside, timber, conservation, crafts and delicious local produce.
www.facebook.com/ festivalanonymous
Get yer ‘nanas out! Every child who brings a banana for the primates at Monkey World on Saturday, Sunday and Monday of the bank holiday weekends gets a free Monkey World badge!
The annual Stock Gaylard Oak Fair takes great pride in providing many free activities for children of all ages including scarecrow making and a maze, with natural craft, art, circus and music workshops. There’s also an interactive falconry display and an exhibition of work by Dorset sculptors including the chainsawn piece pictured here.
And next Saturday, August 31 there’s a chance to see Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone under the stars in Monkey World’s open air movie night in aid of the Jim Cronin Memorial Fund. Monkey World was set up in 1987 by the late Jim Cronin and is still run by his widow Alison. www.monkeyworld.org
www.stockgaylard.com
AUGUST 26 Chris & Pui’s Summer Roadshow Chris and Pui from hit CBeebies show Show Me Show Me bring their live stage show back to Bournemouth for the bank holiday Monday afternoon. CBeebies’ favourite double act promises all the songs, rhymes, comedy sketches and lots of joining in for their young fans. See Old MacDonald, Incy, Humpty, the Grand Duke, Little Bo Peep, Old King Cole, Horsey Horsey and youngsters are invited to bring their teddies and character toys. www.bic.co.uk
• Licensed for Civil Marriages
and Civil Partnership • Up to 160 wedding breakfast • Evening reception up to 180 • Panoramic views of the bay • Exclusive use of function
rooms • Outdoor terraces • Bespoke packages available • Photography opportunities
by the beach and Alum Chine Bridge • Wedding Packages
from £999
For more information or to arrange an appointment with the wedding coordinator please call us on 01202 763653 or visit www.rivierabournemouth.co.uk Alum Chine, Bournemouth BH4 8JF
A full weekend of steam engines and real ale at the Drusilla’s Inn, near Horton ends with a beer ‘sale’ on Sunday evening – everything must go and it’s all in aid of Victoria Hospital in Wimborne. Tonight finds Irish band Shebeen providing the soundtrack to a barbecue and there’s live music all afternoon and evening on Saturday, with steam engines and a hog roast. Drusilla’s Steam Up is an annual event for steam engines on their way to the Great Dorset Stream Fair. www.drusillasinn.co.uk
aug 28-sept 3 Great Dorset Steam Fair
AUGUST 29 Hidden Stories of Dorset
Now in its 45th year, from small beginnings this annual event has become the country’s leading heritage show and one of the biggest of its kind in the world.
Storyteller Tony Horitz sets out to capture the imagination in Broadmayne village hall from 10.30am on August 29 with his Secret Stories of Dorset.
Anyone with an interest in how people lived, worked and played in years gone by will find plenty to interest them at the 600-acre show site. A music festival headlined by The Wurzels runs alongside the steam fair with six stages of live bands.
It’s a session of traditional storytelling, based on local tales from the South Dorset Ridgeway and children can work in groups to create small stories of their own before joining together and creating a brand new legend about a distinctive Ridgeway landmark.
www.gdsf.co.uk
www.artsreach.co.uk
Take ydoduirng vows... we
...against the open skies and clear blue waters of Alum Chine beach. Sip Champagne on our poolside terrace, and head down to the beach for breath-taking beach photos or the stunning Alum Chine Bridge.
UNTIL AUGUST 25 Steam Up
CROSSWORD
There will be the opportunity to try free running and slack lining. This year the festival features the Anonymous Travelling Market, an array of stalls and entertainment to celebrate the best of South West.
AUGUST 24-26 Banana Bonanza
solution on page 2
CLUES ACROSS
1) Fantastique ballet for fashion (8) 5) Dance from South America (3-3) 9) Surface resistance as another passes over (8) 10) Big bang depression (6) 11) Rather more than necessary (2, 6) 12) Passed over and above (6) 14) Flying pole ending in twigs (10) 18) Keeps liquid that which keeps cool (10) 22) Nights as winter approaches (4, 2) 23) Instructions provided for an exercise (8) 24) Scientific study of light and vision (6) 25) That which may be there but isn’t (8) 26) Departure from enforced confinement (6) 27) Popular infusion scented with bergamot (4, 4)
CLUES DOWN
1)Scientific seeker after experimental knowledge (6) 2) The end of many a football team (6) 3) Complete and entire as created (6) 4) Neither spied nor seen (10) 6) Bread, dough, the folding green stuff (4, 4) 7) All embracing sympathies and belief (8) 8) The late social implications of winter sports (5, 3) 13) Found on a great many pizzas (10) 15) Commodious cupboard for bulky clothes (8) 16) Known as the pond but rather larger (8) 17) Banged to rights by a blond constable (1, 4, 3) 19) What happened next - after the climax or later (6) 20) Well ordered after reorganisation (6) 21) Set-up for making introductions (6)
seeker news 17
august 23-SEPTEMBER 5 2013
Typhoon
The RAF’s frontline fighter, the Typhoon is the fastest aircraft in the world today with a top speed of 1,300 mph and can fly to an altitude of 65,000ft. The display team is drawn from 29(R) Squadron of the RAF, based at RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire. If you’re wondering why a 29 Squadron aircraft has Roman numerals on its tail, legend has it that during the 1920s a member of groundcrew was sent out to paint “two X’s and one X” on the tail although another story refers to the XXX markings on beer barrels to denote Extra Strong.
Air Bournemouth
Europe’s largest free air show, Bournemouth Air Festival returns next weekend. In our free guide to the festival line up Steve Cook looks at what aircraft to watch out for
Festival 2013
PictureS: Steve Cook, crown copyright, Seeker photos.com/mike post
18 seeker news
specialfeature
august june23-SEPTEMBER 28-july 11 2013 5 2013
Vulcan
Part of Britain’s nuclear deterent during the Cold War, the Vulcan was designed in 1946 by Roy Chadwick, who only five years earlier had designed the Lancaster. XH558 first flew in 1960 and left RAF service in 1993, she is now maintained and operated without any government funding. To support XH558 visit www.vulcantothesky.org
Merlin
The Royal Navy’s main anti-submarine warfare helicopter, also used for search and rescue and casualty evacuation, the Merlin has been in service since 2000, is bigger than a double decker bus and can cruise at 167mph.
Red Arrows
The world’s premier aerobatic display team, the RAF’s Red Arrows are back up to full strength and will be pushing their BAe Hawks to the limit during their display. Formed in 1965, they have completed more than 4,000 displays in 53 countries. Watch out for their trademark Diamond Nine formation and the dramatic high-speed head-on passes of the Synchro Pair.
seeker news 19
august 23-SEPTEMBER 5 2013
Battle of Britain Memorial Flight
Formed in 1957 as the RAF Historic Aircraft Flight operating Spitfires and Hurricanes, the unit was renamed in 1973 with the addition of the Lancaster, one of only two left flying (the other is in Canada). The flight pays tribute to the RAF’s major battle honour, the Battle of Britain in which more than 1,000 RAF aircraft were lost, compared to 1,652 Luftwaffe aircraft between July and October 1940.
B-17 Flying Fortress, Sally B
Europe’s last remaining airworthy B-17, based at the Imperial War Museum Duxford she has starred in a variety of films and TV shows ranging from Memphis Belle to It Ain’t Half Hot Mum. Dubbed the Flying Fortress because of its 13 machine guns, the B-17 took part in daylight bombing raids across occupied Europe while the RAF bombers flew mainly at night.
Swordfish
Known as the ‘String-bag’ the Fairey Swordfish entered service with the Fleet Air Arm in 1936. A torpedo bomber, the aircraft took part in the decimation of the Italian fleet at Taranto and in 1941 crippled the German battleship the Bismarck. Despite its dated design its flying abilities were legendary. One aircraft was so badly damaged by anti-aircraft fire that it was virtually a monoplane but still managed to fly all of the way from the Western Desert to the UK for repairs.
Miss Demeanour
Jonathan ‘Flapjack’ Whaley’s distinctive Hunter is based at Hurn and is capable of flying at 715mph despite being 57 years old. It was bought in 1997 for just £12,000 - less than the cost of a refuel today!
Sea Vixen, Foxy Lady
This twin-boomed jet fighter of the 1950s-60s was one of 140 manufactured in Christchurch - readers of a certain age will remember the aircraft which sat on a concrete plinth in Somerford for many years. A massive aircraft, at more than 55’ long and 51’ wide you could fit two badminton courts on top of its giant wing.
20 seeker news
august june23-SEPTEMBER 28-july 11 2013 5 2013
seeker news 21
august 23-SEPTEMBER 5 2013
WHAT A
ARTS
interview jason manford
NICE MAN YOUNG
by james rampton
J
ason Manford has not run away to join the opera. Despite winning ITV1’s charity-based talent competition, Born To Shine, putting his new-found talent into practice by joining Alfie Boe on tour and then starring in the critically acclaimed West End production of Sweeney Todd alongside Michael Ball and Imelda Staunton, Jason has not forgotten his stand-up roots. In fact, the gifted comedian is now returning to his first love and embarking on a huge nationwide live tour with a major new show entitled First World Problems. Chatting to me in a TV dressing room – he is about to appear on Jonathan Ross’s ITV1 chat show – Jason manifests the same likeable magnetism that draws thousands of fans to his live shows. His winning friendliness is no act. With this particular comic, what you see is what you get. A first-rate observational comic who describes his show as “essentially moaning about everyday life, but with punchlines” he says the buzz you get from live comedy is unrivalled. “You can’t give it up!” he beams. “People who haven’t done stand-up focus on the negatives – ‘what’s it like to die on stage?’ I always say, ‘It’s horrendous, the worst feeling in the world’. But the lows are so low because the highs are so high.” The stand-up, who was also hosted Show Me the Funny and Comedy Rocks with Jason Manford for ITV1, carries on: “It’s a huge risk, but when it goes right, there is nothing better. It creates a communal feeling that you just can’t beat. You get all these people laughing and you think, ‘I did that!’ If you make one person laugh in a
review AQUARIA
The show is full of wonderful and impressive gymnastics and acrobatics, including performers who show grace and elegance using aerial silks, the strength and agility needed for the trapeze and the skills required to perform with a fire-covered 3D cube. Just as impressive are the water gymnastics in which one performer
Jason Manford plays Southampton Guildhall on September 18, 19. Box office 023 8063 2601.
review stomp
Windsor Hall, BIC
This August, the BIC’s Windsor Hall has been turned into an underwater palace as the backdrop to the enchanting story of Aquaria, the goddess of the deep, and her marvellous creation, a magnificent pearl called Dana.
day, that’s great. Imagine multiplying that by 10,000!” Jason underlines that stand-up remains his overwhelming passion. “TV is simpler. You can do re-takes. But you’re not getting an immediate response. You don’t know if something is funny till weeks later. “Overall TV is much, much easier. A lot of the time it’s just professional reading. It’s reading while trying to make it look like you’re not reading.” Stand-up, on the other hand, is much more demanding. “On stage, you’re everything,” Jason continues. “You’re the boss. You’re the performer, writer, editor, director. You’re even Ofcom. You decide what to say. It’s brilliant.” Jason now has a very wide fan base. He observes that, “By now, people know that we share a sense of humour. They are aware of what they’re getting, and I’m aware of what makes them laugh. The weirdest thing is fans who remember jokes that I’ve forgotten. Sometimes I say to them, ‘I don’t remember that one. I must put it back in the act – it’s a good gag!’ Before he departs, I return to the subject of his sheer likability. Jason smiles that, “I’m the same on stage as I am in real life – which can be incredibly annoying at home! Jimmy Carr says that because he is quite rude on stage, if he says hello to a fan in the street, that will make their day. “By contrast, because I’m nice on stage, unless I ask a fan if they fancy a brew, they’ll say, ‘He’s a bit rude’. I’m a victim of my own niceness. Sometimes I wish I’d gone down the Jack Dee misery route!”
Pavilion Theatre, Bournemouth manages to show her amazing skills by jumping, diving and bending – in ways that I didn’t think were possible – into a glass bowl that couldn’t have been any bigger than five feet across. Incredible! The second half of the show features some brilliant drummers who were amazingly precise with their speed and timing, mesmerising breakdancers and even a giant Slinky! In short, there’s always something to look at and the clever use of lighting and sound only adds to the drama of the performance.
Siân Court
What do you get if you put together a shopping trolley, a Zippo lighter, industrial pipes and all manner of everyday household objects? Somehow these items, together with eight people, makes an incredible one hour, 45 minutes of sheer entertainment. After being seen by more than 14 million people worldwide, Stomp has finally come to Bournemouth with new routines, music and wonderful choreography. The opening night attracted all ages and you really got the sense of expectation as the show started unexpectedly with a man brushing the floor. The audience soon fell into silence listening to every sound that came from the stage – I never knew brushing the floor could be so entertaining.
Throughout the show you are constantly entertained by the skills that these performers have and their ability to make music from ordinary objects. There is even a wonderful comedy element to the show that gets you laughing out loud. The later part of the show uses the trademark steel bins and lids and the music wouldn’t sound out of place at a carnival, it’s so upbeat and infectious you just want to get up and join in. By the end of the show you may have a little headache, but you definitely have a smile on your face as the show is very entertaining – when I got home I couldn’t wait to make music while washing up or sweeping the floor!
Siân Court
22 seeker news
august june23-SEPTEMBER 28-july 11 2013 5 2013
ARTSWHAT’S ON
THEATRE
ROCK/POP
CLASSICAL/JAZZ COMEDY
THE COMEDY OF ERRORS
LEONARD COHEN
CLASSICAL MUSIC THE WORLD OVER
Open-air theatre returns to the Mill for the annual visit by the Rain or Shine Theatre, this year with their version of Shakespeare’s A Comedy of Errors. Thought to be the Bard’s first play, it’s a theatrical feast of wit and humour making the most of an unlikely plot, which includes reunions of lost children with parents, husbands with wives and the ever present threat of death.
Having penned a string of hit records – although rarely are his the best known versions – Leonard Cohen is among the most revered and influential singer songwriters of the last half century. His songs, which include Tower of Song, Hallelujah, Suzanne and Bird on a Wire, have been recorded by artists as diverse as Jeff Buckley, REM, Judy Collins and Johnny Cash.
www.walfordmillcrafts.co.uk
www.bic.co.uk
BABE THE SHEEP-PIG
PURBECK FOLK FESTIVAL
August 24, 6.30pm Walford Mill Crafts, Wimborne
August 26, 7.30pm Windsor Hall, BIC
August 29, 7.30pm Corfe Castle When Farmer Hoggett wins a piglet at the fair everyone knows what fate awaits piglets raised on a farm. Adopted by Fly the sheepdog, Babe develops his own methods of herding sheep using politeness instead of barking orders. Illyria bring all the fun and excitement of Dick King Smith’s classic to life against the backdrop of Corfe Castle. www.nationaltrust.org/corfecastle
PRIDE & PREJUDICE
August 23, 7.30pm Athelhampton House
August 23-25, daily Wilkswood Farm, Langton Matravers
Great organisation and plenty of hard work have paid off as Purbeck now enjoys a national reputation for great music, good food and no hassle. Last year’s headliner KT Tunstall was so impressed by 16-year-old Aimee McKenzie she offered the youngster use of her studio. Aimee was so impressed, she’s coming back to play this year’s festival. www.purbeckfolk.co.uk
THE RAT PACK
August 25, 7.30pm St Mary’s Church, Dorchester A concert by musicians from the Chamber Philharmonia Cologne, the programme takes its title from the ensemble’s motto and will include Boccherini’s Fandango for Guitar, Monti’s Csardas for Violin and Orchestra and well known music by Vivaldi, JS Bach and Mozart. www.kammerphilharmonie-koeln.de
SHAKATAK
August 25, 7.30pm Pier Theatre, Bournemouth Leading lights of the British jazzfunk explosion of the late-1970s, Shakatak have enjoyed a level of success and longevity that is almost unique among their peers. At once mainstream, with hits including Night Birds and Down on the Street, and underground, they enjoy a cult following all over the world. www.bic.co.uk
www.bic.co.uk
JETHRO
August 27, 7.30pm Pavilion Theatre, Bournemouth Cornwall’s greatest export since the pasty, Jethro has been turning everyday events into farcical stories, embellished into hilarity with his trademark West Country dialect for years now. And his popularity shows no sign of waning any time soon. A funny thing may well happen to you on your way to the theatre, but it won’t be as funny as what happened to Jethro.
September 6, 7pm Electric Palace, Bridport
August 23, 7.30pm Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis Blackadder meets Gilbert & Sullivan as Radio 4’s favourite musical comedy quartet inject Alexandre Dumas’ classic The Three Musketeers with fresh four-part harmonies. With her village threatened by the villainous Cardinal Richtea, Nicole D’Artagnan must dress up as a man and join the King’s Musketeers. But murky happenings plague her progress. www.marinetheatre.com
Their tenth anniversary show will find Dorset’s nationally-lauded tribute to the golden age of swing jazz and forwards to classic croons of the 1960s and 70s digging deep into their impressive repertoire to conjure up a night of smooth tunes and finger clicking cool. Expect the hits to flow.
Joining forces to bridge the worlds of classical music and alt-folk, Almond and Hornby promise an evening of unique music. Suzy Almond spans the London and New York folk scenes, with the voice of a torch singer and a penchant for off-beat storytelling, while Elizabeth Hornby’s evocative, cinematic solo piano music is inspired by a childhood growing up in Dorset.
www.athelhampton.co.uk
www.mrkyps.net
www.electricpalace.org.uk
Q&A LES McKEOWN by nick churchill
es McKeown is bringing the Bay City Rollers Story to Lighthouse, Poole next month, the Scottish summerlove sensations’ former lead singer Les McKeown is ready to don the tartan and do the hits for the ever-willing tartan army of Rollermaniacs.
To be a singer in a rock and roll band.
You’re starting a new tour in Poole, what have you got in store for us?
Tartan scarves are always present at my Bay City Rollers Show.
The true meaning of Shang-A-Lang can only be felt in a deeply spiritual way, you either have Shang-A-Lang in balance or you don’t. You can have too much Shang and not enough Lang - in itself not a big problem as long as you rebalance the Shang and the Lang at regular intervals usually by playing BCR music until you feel you have achieved what we call Shang-ALangness.
Before the Bay City Rollers, what was your ambition?
You tasted success after the Rollers, but did it ever feel the same?
Will there still be room for tartan flares and scarves?
Direct from his unique performance on Dancing On Ice, Joe Pasquale is returning to the Bournemouth where his devoted audience will be able to watch him pirouette through puns, leap through laughs, slide into songs, then gasp at his amazing double gusset, see his skates, and other favourite fish.
www.bic.co.uk
August 31, 8pm Mr Kyps, Ashley Cross
A fabulous upbeat look at the Bay City Rollers’ worldwide career in pop music, told through music and verse.
August 26, 7.30pm Pavilion Theatre, Bournemouth
SUZY ALMOND & ELIZABETH HORNBY
Take a step back in time with Chapterhouse Theatre Company to meet Elizabeth Bennet and her sisters. With her mother trying to pair her off with the detestable Mr Collins, Elizabeth meets an apparently rude and rather abrupt chap called Darcy. The rest is history. Athelhampton’s grounds are open for picnics before the performance.
L
JOE PASQUALE
How did you and the boys react to the level of success? With humility and reckless abandonment of anything considered ‘normal’. What does Shang-A-Lang mean?
BARBERSHOPERA
Immediately after the BCR the success was fabulously exciting and continues to keep me interested. What do you miss about the 1970s? Just about everything. Did punk kill Rollermania, or had things just run their course? Things changed, young people got bored with the Status Quo and wanted something new. What’s your most memorable moment from that time? Being young and full of beans. And the song that feels the most special? Starman by David Bowie. Will there ever be a full reunion? Who knows? What next for Les McKeown? Les McKeown will be doing more of the same and something that will be different. The Bay City Rollers Story plays LIghthouse, Poole on September 13. www.lighthousepoole.co.uk
BEST OF REST
THOMAS HARDY & ARCHITECTURE
August 29, 7.30pm Dorset County Museum, Dorchester Thomas Hardy is the only major English novelist to have also been a professional architect. Samantha Brigg’s talk offers an overview on Hardy’s architectural career and show how he engaged with nineteenth century debates about the built environment in his fiction. www.dorsetcountymuseum.org
FAULTY TOWERS DINING EXPERIENCE
September 6-12, 7pm (Sun 6pm, Sat/Sun mats noon) Lighthouse, Poole The ideal accompaniment to Fawlty Towers features all the best gags and a three course meal. The fun starts as you wait to be seated, then hurtles along for two hours where the audience are the diners and Sybil, Basil and Manuel their waiters. Only a third of the show is scripted, so it’s new every time. www.lighthousepoole.co.uk
BAUDELAIRE NIGHT
September 5, 6pm Sladers Yard, West Bay Renowned broadcaster, educator and speaker Graham Fawcett talks about Baudelaire. The French poet’s restless spirit is frequently invoked by wreck-head rock stars, but his reputation rests largely on having coined the word ‘modernity’ and insisted on the artist’s responsibility to capture the fleeting beauty of industrialised urban environments. www.sladersyard.com
seeker news 23
august 23-SEPTEMBER 5 2013
ARTSCINEMA
coming
If you onlyer see one oth h film this mont
soon
y, Way ut The Wa tale o k c e h c n The omic tersweet c Back, a bit enage angst. of te
Friday, August 23 The Kings Of Summer (15) Lovelace (18) We’re The Millers (15) Wednesday, August 28 The Way, Way Back (12A) You’re Next (18)
A
ny actor worth their salt loves a challenge. But when that challenge finally comes along not all of them find they have the courage of their convictions.
does your mother know? cinema with Anwar Brett
Perpetually troubled star Lindsay Lohan appeared to be heading for a potential, Robert Downey-style reinvention when she was cast as Linda Lovelace in a screen biopic of the 1970s porn icon, but soon parted ways with that project. That film, Inferno is yet to be made. But, ironically, one of Lohan’s co-stars from their breakthrough film Mean Girls a decade ago has taken up the challenge with some distinction.
Amanda Seyfried, these days better known as the virginal heroine of the Abba infused musical romp Mamma Mia!, or indeed the virginal heroine of the interminable Victor Hugo-inspired musical romp Les Miserables, portrays the woman who became famous more than 40 years ago for the X certificate smash hit Deep Throat. “I feel like there aren’t a lot of opportunities for someone my age to play somebody really fascinating,” the 27-yearold actress explains. “A lot of the people in the industry, unfortunately, see me doing one thing. It’s partly my fault. I never dye my hair and I’m always kind of playing a version of myself. “There are certain roles over the years that I’ve seen go directly to certain actresses, and I think ‘God, that would have been such a good challenge. That would have been such a stretch for me,’.” Any thoughts of the earlier, sweet-natured characters she played are banished by a compelling and poignant performance in her new film Lovelace. Not that Linda is not a nice person. She is portrayed as a naive young
woman who escaped a harsh home dominated by a severe mother (a brilliant and unrecognisable Sharon Stone) into an even more cruel relationship with husband Chuck Traynor (Peter Sarsgaard).
The film skilfully charts the rise to unlikely fame of a woman coerced into making the most lucrative movie in cinema history, at a time when hardcore pornography briefly joined the cultural mainstream and seemed ‘cool’. In part this phenomenon was due to an explicit, comically anarchic 61-minute film about a woman who discovers a key part of her sexual anatomy in her throat. The dirty mac was momentarily thrown off, as celebrities and politicians were seen queuing up to see the film.But Lovelace also reveals the fiercely controlling side of Traynor’s malign influence, the violence and fear that Linda expressed in her later autobiography, and in her subsequent campaign against the porn industry. “She was a good Catholic girl thrust into this world against her will,” Seyfried adds. “It’s hard for people to imagine that she had such a hard time, because it looked like she was having so much fun. But once you see this movie you realise what was actually happening throughout. “The only times that she got away from Chuck were the times she was surrounded by her co-stars, and the people from Deep Throat. And being in the limelight, being on the stage, was a dream of hers, though not necessarily in this capacity.” With Linda and the unlamented Chuck no longer around to comment on how they are portrayed in the film, Seyfried was most concerned that Linda’s, now adult, children Dominic and Lindsay should approve of her performance. They both acted as consultants on the movie and were given the chance to see it before it played at Sundance earlier this year.
Thursday, August 29 One Direction - This Is Us (3D) Friday, August 30 Pain & Gain (15) Wednesday, September 4 About Time (12A) Riddick (15) Friday, September 6 Jadoo (12A) White House Down (12A)
“Afterwards they said they could show it to their partners and said ‘they will finally understand what our mother was like,’. I was like ‘wow. Really?’. That was all I needed. They had a good relationship with her, they really loved their mother. And she did something right, having two wonderful kids.”
“She was a good Catholic girl thrust into this world against her will” Knowing that the character you are playing was alive, and – more than that – that people who loved them will be judging your performance is a daunting challenge, but once met it can change the way you approach your work forever more. Amanda Seyfried has definitely caught the bug. “I feel like when you’re playing somebody that exists you have to step into their shoes as much as you can. I had a lot of access to her life, so it was intense. I felt like a stalker at times. It’s such a weird dynamic, but because of all that I lived through in her, I had a hard time letting it go at the end. You have to empathise with your character and I really felt I understood her struggle.”
Next issue we hear about one of the most compelling rivalries in Formula 1, the race for the world championship title between James Hunt and Niki Lauda as seen in the brilliant new movie Rush
24 seeker news
august june23-SEPTEMBER 28-july 11 2013 5 2013
MOTORING
ROAD TEST REPORT: MINI PACEMAN FACTFILE
MINI Paceman Cooper S
Price: £22,360 Engine: 1.6T / 184bhp Top Speed: 135mph 0-62mph: 7.5 seconds Fuel Consumption: 42.2mpg (Combined) Emissions: 143 g/km Insurance: Group 32
J
ust how many variations on the MINI can you make? Well BMW is now up to seven with the addition of the Paceman, a coupe version of the Countryman which features a bulked-up, slightly bloated appearance with a chopped, sloping rear roofline inherited from the Roadster. Step into the cabin and you are back in very familiar MINI territory with those reassuring toggle switches, sports seats and massive dinner plate sized central
chris adamson instrument display – which, of course, these days houses things such as the satellite navigation. Paceman is strictly a four-seater with the rear occupants getting arm-rests and because of this it
does provide one of the best boot space arrangements on any modern day MINI. The average sized 330 litre boot can swell to 1080 litres by folding down (almost flat) the split rear seats. Paceman is offered with a choice of petrol and diesel engines in four outputs, the pick of them is the 1.6 litre turbocharged Cooper S which is capable of reaching 62mph in well under eight seconds but this requires pushing the revs as close as possible to the red line. Treat it more gently and the
Paceman is responsive and willing without getting as rowdy as some of its siblings. Prices for the Paceman start at just under £19,000 but you are going to have to pay over £22,000 to get the Cooper S version which comes with Dynamic Stability Control, Dynamic Traction Control, Electronic Differential Lock Control, 17 inch alloy wheels, climate control air conditioning, heated front seats, adaptive Xenon headlights, Park Distance Control and satellite navigation.
Hovervan arrives in the New Forest
The Top Gear Hovervan mark II which swept through the canals of Stratford with devastating effect is the latest vehicle to join Beaulieu’s World of Top Gear feature in the heart of the New Forest. The Hovervan joins a whole host of vehicles at Beaulieu created by the Top Gear presenters for some of their most ambitious challenges. Another recent addition from the current series is the Hindustan taxi, a Morris Ambassador, the winner of a world taxi shootout.
Classic values
Hagerty International is launching a series of valuation seminars for classic car enthusiasts to learn the ins-and-outs of the complex market. The first event will be held at Beaulieu on the eve of the International Autojumble on September 6 at 6pm and will review values and trends and the panel’s expert opinion on the immediate and long term future of the classic car and bike markets. Pre-booked tickets are £5 in advance - the number of places is limited to 200.
seeker news 25
august 23-SEPTEMBER 5 2013
Do you have what it takes to build relationships?
Client Relationship Manager Working with a diverse range of clients from our Poole office and throughout the BH postcode Join our thriving, friendly team For more details please contact Dawn on 01202 649811 or email dawn@seekernews.co.uk
There are a few golden rules that job seekers, at almost every career level, should run through when beginning their search for a new work opportunity. Rubicon People’s experienced recruitment consultants challenge candidates to ask themselves three big questions:
1. Do my skills really match? The first thing to consider is whether core skills, technical experience and qualifications match the job applied for. An example would be a technical management vacancy where the consultant would look for evidence that a candidate can demonstrate the expected skills successfully for a long enough time. Or perhaps the candidate is changing to a new industry sector, in which case we will be determining what it is that makes the candidate think they are ready or able to pick up the necessary skills? It is not uncommon for job seekers to approach a potential role solely because of the industry sector, irrespective of how well matched they are for the role itself.
2. Do I have the right management skills? Being a manager is just as much a discipline as industry sector skills like testing, design or programming. Just like those skills, not everyone has them and everyone has their limitations. The management skills required can differ depending on a number of factors such as the size of the team, job functions, geographical spread of teams and managing remotely.
3. Do I fit in? The third consideration centres on whether you are a good personality fit within the new company and team and whether your new line manager, or direct reports, are a good fit. This is very often not considered thoughtfully enough from the candidate’s perspective. Other considerations for job seekers include succession planning, other opportunities, geography, remuneration... in fact, the list is hard to exhaust and our advice to job seekers is to work with professional recruiters, like us, who can support good candidates through this critically important process.
Bid Manager £35,000 Quality Inspector £20,000 Technologist - £22,000 Technical Author - £35,000 Graduate Mechanical Design Engineer - £25,000 Call us on: 01202 680311
Scan for our
rubicon people Great people & great jobs since 1982
latest jobs!
26 seeker news
august june23-SEPTEMBER 28-july 11 2013 5 2013
Permanent Vacancies
ek Secretary (part time), Bournemouth 3 days/we Financial Services Administrator, Poole £18–25,000 Team Leader, Bournemouth £17,000 t) Sales Support, Poole £14,000 (September star P/T Purchase Ledger, Poole £18-20,000 pro rata
Temporary Positions
Receptionists, Various roles £7.00 per hr
Conveyancing Secretary x2, Ringwood & Poole £9.00 per hr IT Administrator, Bournemouth £8–8.50 per hr Resort Supervisor, Bournemouth £8.73 per hr Customer Service/Administrator (must have current CRB), Bournemouth £7.00 per hr
Sales Ledger, Poole £18–20,000
This could be
YOU!
Team of the Month August 2013 Lewis is--Manning Hospice and Jobshop UK
Jon & Kavita of PH War with Jobshop UK’s Frances r
BACK TO SCHOOL QUIZ! Friday 27th Septem ber, 7pm Parkstone Grammar School, Sopers Lan e, Poole Entry Fee: £9
0 per team of 6 (Onl Includes: School Din y £15 each) ners, Ye Olde Tuck Sh oppe, Cash Bar, Prizes , and much more! Sponsored by:
outh BH2 5RY em rn ou B e, gl an ri T 1 The
Tel. 01202 674488 www.jobshopuk.com m email@jobshopuk.co
To register call 0120 2 701000 or visit ww w.lewis is--manning.co.uk/ev ents/back ck--to to--schooll--quiz
august 23-SEPTEMBER 5 2013
QUESTION: My tenant, whose tenancy started in January this year, has been persistently late in paying his rent. We have been sympathetic towards his circumstances changing, but we now find ourselves in a position where he owes rent for all of June and all of July. He is currently in a tenancy for 12 months and we are really worried that this may continue until the end. Please can you advise us on what we can do to rectify the situation?
ANSWER: This is one of the most common questions I get asked. Nationally, rent arrears rose by 55% last year and it is really important for landlords to keep on top of this. I will assume you have been in contact with the tenant in trying to obtain the rent for July and August and still find yourselves in this situation. It is in my experience that once a tenant is two months in arrears, they find it incredibly difficult to catch up and it then often spirals out of control. Because the tenant is now more than eight
Sharon Canning weeks in arrears you can serve a Section 8 notice informing him he is in breach of his contract. This requires a minimum of 14 days’ notice and has the advantage that you can claim both the property and the rent from the court hearing. If the tenant refuses to leave the property then you can go to court on this before the tenancy expires. As with completing all court forms it is vital the information given is accurate and completed in a certain way. You will also need proof that you have served the notice on the tenant. I would strongly advise you seeking legal assistance in this from either a solicitor or reputable agent. If you would like an informal chat on your property, please contact 01202 711169 and speak to a member of our team or email info@moveonrentals.com.
green way to save on fuel bills
H
eating water in the home is expensive – but now there’s an alternative that’s greener and saves money. Thermodynamic heating is a proven European technology that’s been around for some 30 years but is new to the UK.
“It’s like a fridge in reverse,” explains Phillip Collins, marketing director of Solar Dawn, one of the country’s leading thermodynamic heating system specialists. “The refrigerant runs at -22°C and, providing the air temperature is higher than that, it’ll heat your water all year round – even at night. “The only running cost is a small amount of electricity for the compressor and the system uses only one panel, so it can be conveniently placed anywhere on the roof or wall of the house.”
property
Director of lettings specialists Move On, answers questions from landlords & tenants
ADVERTISEMENTFEATURE
In simple terms, a thermodynamic hot water system has a single panel containing a liquid gas refrigerant that absorbs natural heat from the sun and air. The refrigerant is pumped under pressure – to make it even hotter – through pipes into a specially designed water heating tank.
seeker news 27
The Solar Dawn team has been in the solar power industry for nearly 15 years and involved with more than 20,000 solar installations. Phillip points out a thermo-dynamic system will supply 100% of a home’s hot water for as little as 20% of the conventional cost, depending on the amount of hot water required. To ensure the system works efficiently it must be fitted by experts. “Each tank has a back-up immersion heater and can also have the home’s existing hot water heating system connected if desired. This, combined with our comprehensive insurance-backed guarantee, gives you total peace of mind while you enjoy cheaper and greener hot water in your home.”
News affordable Swift resolution in housing completed church purchase
Dorset’s biggest private landlord has completed its latest development of affordable housing – the eighth new complex in just two years. The completion of the £1m block in Westbourne follows shortly after the opening of another development in Southbourne. The new five storey, wooden-framed structure with landscaped gardens in Norwich Avenue contains 12 onebedroom apartments. DWP Housing Partnership has more than 3,000 tenants in and around Bournemouth and demand keeps growing for its accommodation. “The Norwich Avenue development together with the one in Cranleigh Road in Southbourne is the result of almost £2m of investment,” says Steve Wells from DWP Housing Partnership.
Poole-based JM Watts Commercial Property has recently completed a deal to acquire the freehold of the former Methodist Church in Westbourne on behalf of Swift Investments in London. The 18th century building is currently occupied by Tesco and Rock Restaurant, who converted the first floor retaining much of the building’s unique features. “It was a complex deal to get over the line and we are very pleased to have secured a good, long-term investment for our client in a superb building and location,” said Jason Watts. “Beyond the obvious attraction of a multinational tenant like Tesco, our client was impressed with Rock Restaurant as well as their brand overall.” This deal comes off the back of JM Watts witnessing an upturn in the investment market recently.
28 seeker news
august june23-SEPTEMBER 28-july 11 2013 5 2013
august 23-SEPTEMBER 5 2013
seeker news 29
30 seeker news
august june23-SEPTEMBER 28-july 11 2013 5 2013
DWP Housing Partnership 25a St. Clements Road, Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset. BH1 4DU Tel - 01202 301244 l info@dwphousing.co.uk l www.dwphousing.co.uk
PROPERTY TO RENT - CALL TO BOOK A VIEWING 01202 301244
LATEST
DEVELOPMENTS
STUDIO FLAT Stafford Road, Lansdowne
1 BEDROOM FLAT Manor Road, New Milton
Well Presented Ground Floor Studio Flat located in Bournemouth Town Centre. Located with a 10 min walk from Train Station.
2009 Built first floor modern one bedroom flat located in New Milton. Short distance from Town Centre and Train Station. On bus route to several surrounding areas.
Available September
Available September
£90 pw
STUDIO FLAT Wootton Gardens, Lansdowne
£130pw
2 BEDROOM FLAT Scotter Road, Pokesdown
2 BEDROOM FLAT Hamilton Road, Boscombe Decent size first floor two bedroom flat located in the heart of Boscombe, only a 10 minute walk to Boscombe Shopping Centre offering access to local bus routes.
Available September
£150 pw
1 BEDROOM FLAT Linwood Road, Charminster
Modern finish studio flat located in the heart of Bournemouth. Close to Train Station, College and all the Shops and Bars Bournemouth has to offer.
A well presented two bedroom first floor flat, located close to Pokesdown Train Station.
New conversion in Linwood Road, Charminster. Completion due Mid August. Only 1 Flat remaining, call to register your interest.
Available Now
Available September
Available August
£90 pw
£150 pw
£130 pw
11 x 1 BEDROOM FLATS WINDHAM ROAD DUE FOR COMPLETION LATE 2013 4 x 2 BEDROOM FLATS 10 x 1 BEDROOM FLATS ST. SWITHUNS ROAD DUE FOR COMPLETION SPRING 2014
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY TO RENT Starting a business? or Simply looking for new premises for an existing business? We have a large selection of units available to rent, accommodating a range of uses.
Shop available. Christchurch Road, Boscombe. £400 pcm
l l l l l
Garages - All Sizes - All Areas - All Starting from £50 + VAT
Shops Warehouses Showrooms Offices Workshops
Different properties become available on a daily basis, please visit www.dwphousing.co.uk to view all properties. DWP Office Opening Times Monday - Friday : 8am - 5:30pm l Saturday : 8am - 2:30pm Car Parking Available Join Us on Facebook dwphousingpartnership
ONLY £50 ADMIN FEE £25 ADMIN FEE FOR COMMERCIAL
Follow Us on Twitter dwphousing
Offering you the widest choice of homes and business premises to rent in Dorset.
seeker news 31
august 23-SEPTEMBER 5 2013
SPORT
NON-LEAGUE FOOTBALL BY Richard Button
Dan’s the man for Killick
Teenage rampage Bashley
POOLe town
Opposition defences can expect to have two rampaging teenagers running at them in the new season as Bashley gives youth its chance. Jack Odam, 18, previously with AFC Totton, signed for the New Foresters on the eve of the friendly with Wimborne Town and signalled his intention to make his mark at Bash with a well taken goal. Bashley have also secured fellow teenage striker Jack Satterley who was previously with Wessex League outfit Verwood Town. Providing added experience is Tim Sills, formerly of Stevenage, Torquay and Basingstoke and winger Charlie Knight. Joint-manager Stuart Kearn insists that the mixture of youth and experience will present opposing sides with real problems. “We will need to mix it up a bit, some defences will find two young and inexperienced players running at them hard to handle. For other games we may need to have someone with experience who can hold up the ball.”
Manager Tommy Killick insists that it was the force of Dan Cann’s personality, plus his desire to win which spurred him to name the forward as the new Poole Town caption. The Dolphins lost their previous skipper, defender Michael Walker, to fellow Southern Premier side Weymouth during the summer,
leaving Killick with the dilemma of who to hand the captain’s armband to for the new season. “I knew Michael would be a hard act to follow,” says Killick. “As captain he was both strong and inspirational, we needed someone with the same personal qualities as the new captain.” Cann joined Poole seven years ago before departing for spells at Bournemouth Poppies and Wimborne Town. He returned to Tatnam during the 2010 closeseason. “Dan came back a different player, both mentally and physically,” claims Killick. “He has become a huge presence in the changing room and like the rest of our players players he expects us to win every game and won’t even contemplate defeat.”
athletics
Top five Gamble wimborne town
Wimborne Town have the players who can guide them to a top five spot and a place in the Southern League South & West play offs, striker Mark Gamble is predicting. “Without a doubt we have have the ability to claim a place in the play offs. Once we reach the play offs it’s a case of pot luck, but if we we get off to a flying start who knows where we might finish? “We have strength in depth throughout the squad. During pre-season Steve Cuss tried various people in different positions. It proved we do have versatile players.” Gamble, along with former Bashley team-mate James Stokoe, was brought to Cuthbury to boost an attack which struggled to score goals last term. “James and I were brought into grab goals, Matt Kemble has been free-scoring in recent games and it doesn’t matter who scores the goals so long as Wimborne Town get those results.”
cycle speedway
Gold for Steffi
Although he comes from a family with an A1 racing pedigree, our picture shows they really do start them young at Poole Cycle Speedway nowadays.
Poole AC’s Steffi Wilson took European Junior Championship gold on the Great Britain 4x100m relay squad in Rieti, Italy.
For the budding track star is Max Holder, 17-month-old son of Poole Pirates’ current speedway World Champion Chris Holder.
The 19-year-old, an unused reserve on last year’s squad in Barcelona, was selected for the third leg. She combined with 100m hurdler Yasmin Miller, and individual 200m gold and silver medallists Dina Asher-Smith and Desiree Henry to break the national under-20 record twice in a day.
But with his dad sidelined for the rest of the 2013 season with pelvis, hip, and leg injuries, the youngest member of the Holder family decided to keep the family name in the spotlight by taking his first tentative laps around Poole’s Harbourside Raceway, much to the delight of a 300-strong crowd.
Wilson, who is coached by Graeme Gourlay and sponsored by Precision Technology Group, ran a wind-assisted season’s 100m best 11.79s to take bronze in the British Under-20 Championships at Bedford.
While Chris was being interviewed on the infield during the match interval, little Max decided to upstage his old man by riding his Strider tricycle out of the pits and on to the start area where he lined up like a true pro.
The victorious Team GB squad also showcased in the Sainsbury’s Anniversary Games at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London. They finished a creditable fifth in 44.44s, in a race won by the fastest senior British quartet in 12 years, including Asher-Smith, with a time of 42.69s.
Completely unfazed by the occasion, Max made a more than reasonable getaway from the tapes before diving into the first turn in true Holder style, all the time under the watchful eye of his uncle, James Holder.
Nigel Harding
He completed his outing by pulling on to the centre green, in front of a very proud dad.
awards
Young talent recognised
Christchurch and District Sports Council is inviting nominations for its Sports Achievement Awards. Held annually to celebrate the sporting success of local young sports stars and volunteers, there are various awards to be won by those who have contributed to or achieved success in their chosen sport. This year there are five different awards to be won including the usual bronze, silver and gold as well as a Dedication to Sport award to recognise the contribution of volunteers and a new John Moss Sports Coaches award for contributions to coaching.
Affordable, holistic combined sports therapy and chiropractic care
John Moss was a passionate sportsman and President of the Sports Council from 1997 until his death last year.
www.davieschiropractic.co.uk
Nomination forms can be downloaded at www. dorsetforyou.com/410646 and must be returned by October 31. The awards evening will be at East Dorset Indoor Bowls club on November 22.
Call us for a FREE 20 min consultation - 01202 971051 • 07774 004094
Injury rehabilitation service offered Visit our website for more information
32 seeker news
SPORTPIRATES
T
middlo Pirates manager Neil Middleditch
alk about making things tough for ourselves! Last week’s defeat at home to Peterborough was a real disappointment and a major blow to our play-off hopes.
We are not giving up, of course we’re not. But we certainly know how to make life difficult and we’ve really got to bounce back to form straight away after that. It was a meeting we needed to win. A meeting we should have won. But that’s sport for you - one minute you are riding high, the next you are down there in the dirt.
august june23-SEPTEMBER 28-july 11 2013 5 2013 It’s so frustrating because a victory would have put us right there on Lakeside’s heels with just a handful of meetings remaining. Now we are going to have to dig really deep again and ride to the very best of our ability between now and the end of the season. What are the chances our big three of Darcy Ward, Greg Hancock and Magic Janowski all having off nights at the same time? But they did and that’s something you just cannot legislate for in speedway. I’m not one to look for excuses, but the track didn’t do us any favours either. The threat of rain obviously meant it wasn’t watered heavily and that made it slicker than we like or are used to. Our boys like to go round the outside at Wimborne Road where there is normally plenty of grip, but on this occasion there was none to be found. But it was the same for both sides and, in fairness to the Panthers, they rode really well and deserved their victory. What it means now is that we simply can’t afford any more slip ups. Lakeside are our main rivals for that fourth spot and we’ve got to face them home and away, starting at the Arena Essex Raceway tonight. They are two must-win fixtures in every sense and the boys know exactly what they have got to do. It was interesting reading about the speech that Great Britain captain, Christine Ohuruogu, gave to her teammates ahead of the World Athletics Championships in
Darcy Ward and Tomas H Jonasson in action for the Pirates against Peterborough
PHOTO: STEVE COOK Moscow a couple of weeks ago. She told them not to leave anything behind on either track or field, advice she took herself by winning the 400 metres gold. And that’s what I will be saying to my riders. I will urge them to give absolutely everything because that way there can be no complaints from me, the fans or anyone else. If they go out and do their very best then you really can’t ask for any more. One thing is for certain, it’s going to be a nervy but exciting couple of weeks ahead and I can’t wait.
Just before I go I want to pay tribute to Poole promoter, Matt Ford, for his hard work in getting this weekend’s Grand Prix Challenge meeting at Wimborne Road. Bar the Grands Prix themselves, this is speedway’s biggest individual event and it speaks volumes for the hard work put in by Matt and his team to have secured such a meeting. It further enhances Wimborne Road as an international speedway venue and it promises to be a huge occasion with fans heading to Dorset from all over the world.
seeker news 33
august 23-SEPTEMBER 5 2013
SPORTPIRATES
GRAND PRIZE FOR POOLE
Dorset GP double
Pirate Tomas H Jonasson is hoping to gain some home advantage
PHOTO: STEVE COOK
by paul baker
W
imborne Road plays host to one of speedway’s most important meetings of the season this weekend. Saturday’s Grand Prix Challenge represents the last chance saloon for 16 world championship hopefuls. The top three finishers will all earn a place in next year’s coveted Grand Prix Series while the rest will leave with nothing. And with stakes that high it promises to be a thrilling evening of top class entertainment. Among the favourites for victory is former Poole star, Hans Andersen, Slovenian number one Matej Zagar and flying Dane, Michael Jepsen Jensen.
But home fans will have plenty to cheer about with current Pirates Maciej Janowski and Thomas H Jonasson going for glory.
A Poole Speedway spokesman said: “We are expecting a big crowd so fans are advised to get to the stadium in plenty of time.
Jonasson said: “I am delighted to have qualified for the Grand Prix Challenge and I’m hoping it being at Poole will give me an advantage.
“There are no advanced ticket sales for the meeting, it’s all pay on the day.”
“It’s a big meeting with a big prize and I’m looking forward to it.” With nine different nations represented, fans from across Europe will be heading to Dorset. And with such huge interest in the event, supporters are being urged to get to Wimborne Road early. The meeting starts at 6.30pm with the gates opening at 4pm.
Line up: H Andersen (Denmark), M Zagar (Slovenia), M Jepsen Jensen (Denmark), M Smolinski (Germany), V Milik (Czech Republic), M Janowski (Poland), J Pavlic (Croatia), N Iversen (Denmark), K Bjerre (Denmark), A Loktaev (Ukraine) D Nermark (Sweden), K Kasprzak (Poland), Prz Pawlicki (Poland), T H Jonasson (Sweden), Pi Pawlicki (Poland), D King (GB).
Panthers dent play-off hopes
Pirates saw their Elite League play-off hopes dented with a shock home defeat at the hands of Peterborough last week. The 51-39 reversal has given rivals Lakeside the advantage in the race for that coveted fourth place. The Essex outfit are three points ahead of Poole with a meeting in hand, but the two sides still have to race each other twice. Those clashes, which are expected to prove decisive, come at the Arena Essex Raceway tonight and back at Wimborne Road on September 2.
Greg Hancock passes Panther Norbert Kosciuch
Remaining Elite League fixtures Poole
Lakeside
Aug 23 Lakeside (a)
Aug 22 Swindon (a)
Aug 26 Swindon (h)
Aug 23 Lakeside (h)
Aug 29 Swindon (a)
Aug 28 King’s Lynn (a)
Sep 2 Lakeside (h) Sep 9 Belle Vue (a)
Sep 4 King’s Lynn (a)
PHOTO: STEVE COOK
Dorset celebrated a unique double in the Rietumu Bank Latvian FIM Speedway Grand Prix last weekend. Victory went to Poole and USA star Greg Hancock, with Pirates teammate Darcy Ward claiming second spot. It was the American’s third Latvian success in seven years and his first World Championship win of the season. Hancock fended off a sensational chase from Australian Ward and new series leader Tai Woffinden of Great Britain in third at the Lokomotiv Stadium. “This means everything,” said Hancock, who is now lying sixth in the standings. Runner-up Ward climbed up to 10th in the World Championship on 68 points. He remains 14 adrift of injured fellow countryman and Pirate Chris Holder, who occupies the eighth and final automatic qualification position for the 2014 series.
34 seeker news
august june23-SEPTEMBER 28-july 11 2013 5 2013
sportCHERRIES
watford 6 afc bournemouth 1 vicarage road, august 10 Simon Francis and Ryan Fraser celebrate Lewis Grabban’s goal at Vicarage Road
A
Harry Arter
fter the highs of beating Charllton and Portsmouth in quick order, came the low - a 6-1 pounding at promotion favourites Watford. After the game, manager Eddie Howe was in defiant mood, acknowledging his side’s fine first half display and even claiming the rout could be a good thing. “It keeps everyone’s expectations in check and lets everybody know that it is a big step up for us,” he said.
pictures: steve cook
Ryan Fraser
New scout looking for talent The man who spotted Manchester United’s highly rated England international winger Wilfred Zaha has joined Cherries as the club’s new head of player recruitment. Dave Webb says he is determined to identify the players to take the Cherries forward and eventually to look at the youth structure to nurture emerging talent more effectively. Webb started his scouting career at Crystal Palace where he recommended Zaha to academy coaches.
He then went on to work for Spurs, Millwall and, most recently, Southampton. “I think with the way the market is, we will have to be creative with what we do, so we might have to look at players who aren’t the finished article but have potential,” he told reporters. And he instantly won the backing of manager Eddie Howe, who said: “We are delighted to add him to the scouting team that we have here and, hopefully, he will help give us an edge in the transfer market.”
COMING MATCHES
HUDDERSFIELD TOWN DONCASTER ROVERS
August 24, John Smith’s Stadium, Huddersfield, HD1 6PX Survived in the Championship by the skin of their teeth last year, ending up 19th, they need to strenghten their defence to stay up this season. Former Cherries favourite Anton Robinson, whilst a Huddersfield player spent last season on loan at Gillingham and missed pre-season with an injury.
Watch out for Striker James Vaughan made his move from Norwich permanent during the summer after netting 14 goals whilst on loan last season. Jack Hunt is still with the Terriers despite plenty of interest from Premier League clubs.
August 31, Keepmoat Stadium, Stadium Way, Doncaster, DN4 5JW Beat the Cherries to the League One title with the last kick of the season back in May. Now with ex-Oldham boss Paul Dickov at the reins, rumours of an Irish consortium coming in with investment and One Direction’s Louis Tomlinson on the books as a player it could be an interesting season.
Watch out for
Welsh international David Cotterill has the experience necessary to keep Rovers up. He enjoyed one of the best seasons of his career last year scoring 10 times. At 19-years-old James Husband is already maturing into a great left sided midfielder, he’ll learn a lot from Cotterill.
And the Wigan result is the perfect demonstration of how quickly this current crop of Cherries learn their Simon Francis lessons.
I’ve seen that head before... Cherries legend Dickie Dowsett was guest of honour at Dean Court last Saturday. The man whose profile adorns the club crest has long since been assured of his place in the club’s history. Dickie notched up 67 goals in 169 appearances for the club in the late 1950s and early 1960s, before returning as commercial manager once he’d hung up his boots. Working with then manager John Bond, Dickie was instrumental in rechristening the club AFC Bournemouth and forging its new identity in the early 1970s. And with his stylised profile retained on the new crest introduced ahead of the club’s return to the Championship this season, Dickie’s long association with Cherries is set to continue.
Dean Court ‘fortress’ for Pugh Home form will be the key this season according to Cherries winger Marc Pugh. With two home wins already against strong opposition, Charlton and Wigan, the 26-year-old says Dean Court will play a vital role this season. “In the past few seasons we’ve made it a bit of a fortress and the teams who have visited have found it difficult,” he says. “Against the better teams, like Wigan, we try to stay nice and solid and I think we have the pace to catch teams on the counter attack. It’s only early in the season but we would have taken two wins from three all day long if you’d offered it to us before the start of the season. “We’ve got to make our home form count though, and it will prove important come the end of the season.”
seeker news 35
august 23-SEPTEMBER 5 2013
SPORTCHERRIES
afc bournemouth 1 wigandeanAthletic 0 court, august 17 Eliott Ward
Lewis Grabban puts the ball past Scott Carson for the goal
C
pictures: steve cook
‘BIG victory’ for cherries by richard button
herries boss Eddie Howe hailed his men’s performance and insisted even though Wigan were left short-handed in the second period it was a still a “big victory” for his men.
but the shot lacked power and was cleared.
“It was a huge scalp for us,” he said. “Wigan are a very good side and they will win a lot of games this season.
Wigan were dominating possession but the Lactics were failing to produce any real threat inside the Cherries penalty area.
“Even though they were reduced to 10 men it doesn’t take the gloss off our performance.” Lewis Grabban had an early chance when a Wigan error allowed Ryan Fraser to find him,
Steve Cook
Wigan’s first chance came when James McCarthy unleashed a fierce volley from 20 yards with Ryan Allsop doing well to fingertip over the bar.
The Cherries were not being overawed by a side which had graced Wembley just seven days earlier and Brett Pitman had a goal bound shot blocked by Emmerson Boyce and Grabban
AFC Bournemouth: Allsop, Cook, Pugh (90), Harte, Arter, MacDonald, Grabban, Pitman, Ward, Francis (c), Fraser (Thomas 78) Subs not used: Flahavan, O’Kane, Stockley, McDermott, Surman Wigan: Carson, Crainey, McCarthy, Watson, Holt (Fortune 64), Maloney, McArthur (McManaman 55), Boyce (c), Beausejour (McClean 55) Perch, Barnett Subs: Nicholls, McCann, Gomez, Espinoza Att: 9,097
Man of the Match Shaun MacDonald
flashed wide with an acrobatic effort.
Grabban’s efforts were rewarded on 42 minutes as he collected a stray back pass and tapped the ball past Carson as the Cherries took the lead.
away by a fully stretched Carson. Wigan were now in selfdestruct mode and just before the hour second half substitute McManaman was red-carded for a vicious challenge on Pitman.
Wigan monopolised the opening minutes of the second period but failed to cause the Cherries defence any problems.
Despite being a man down Lactics were still a threat and Marc Pugh did well to head MarcAntoine Fortune’s effort off the line.
Bournemouth had a chance to extend their lead eight minutes into the half when Pitman was brought down in the box by Jean Beausejour. Pitman took the spot kick but his effort was beaten
The game was becoming increasingly tetchy and a foul on Wes Thomas led to a quickly taken free-kick by Pitman with Carson doing well to turn the ball round the post.
Brett Pitman
GP CHAllENGE COMES TO POOLE
GOLD FOR STEFFI
page 33
page 31
Wigan match action
page 35
Seeker SPORT the perfect response
www.seekerspor t.co.uk
J
by steve cook
ust seven days after the Cherries conceded six goals at promotion favourites Watford Eddie Howe’s men showed their Championship credentials with a hard fought victory over FA Cup holders Wigan. Manager Eddie Howe praised his players and the mental strength that they’d shown over the past week. “A week is a long time in football and looking at that team you wouldn’t have thought that they had conceded six last week. “We responded very well (to the defeat at Watford). It was a very difficult game and you only have to look at the strength of their bench to see how strong they’ll be this season. “To win, and win well, even though it was at home, is a real credit to the players.” Defender Steve Cook expressed the players’ feelings on the change of fortune over the past week. “We’re delighted with the win, it’s a great way to bounce back. The Watford game wasn’t mentioned at all in the build-up and we have put it behind us. It was only one result and we’ve proved that it was a freak one.” And for the team the clean sheet was as important as the result. “We put in a great defensive performance today against a team with Premier League players really. We just wanted to win today and get a clean sheet, it didn’t matter how we did it, we just needed to do it.”
4cm double column in Seeker News (+ FREE online) £30!
Lewis Grabban celebrates his goal
Advertise your car with
Seeker News
from as little as £10 4cm single column in Seeker News (+ FREE online) only £20!
(or FREE on the website!!!)
To place an ad visit
www.seekernews.co.uk/classifieds