VISITOR numbers at a Purbeck museum increased by 50% in a year.
The work of volunteers at the Purbeck Mining Museum, near Norden, has been praised following news of the rise.
It came as the venue celebrated a decade since its creation, which has now also seen it gain accreditation from Arts Council England for the high standard of its management and visitor engagement, as well as the care it takes to protect and preserve Purbeck’s mining heritage.
“It has been a truly exceptional year,” said museum chair, Peter Sills. “From its conception, the museum has been entirely dependent on the enthusiasm, commitment and hard work of a dedicated and growing team of volunteers.
“It is no mean achievement for a volunteer-run museum to meet the stringent requirements for accreditation from Arts Council England.
“The whole team is immensely proud to receive such recognition. It’s all the more gratifying to be awarded accreditation in a year that has seen such a significant increase in both visitors and donations as well as the introduction of a new welfare centre for volunteers and new footpaths under construction in the surrounding woodland.”
And he said the museum had big plans for the future.
“We are certainly not resting on our laurels,” Peter added. “Our exciting forward development plan will enable us to continue to shine the light on an industry that, quite literally, has shaped much of the familiar and picturesque landscape we see today on the Isle of Purbeck.”
The museum is alongside Swanage Railway’s Norden Station, at Purbeck Park, and is part of the Swanage Railway Trust.
10 years on and mining museum
who provided the museum with invaluable support and encouragement throughout the accreditation process.
It boasts a recreated clay mine housing an array of artefacts, mementos, models, photographs and film footage from years gone by, providing a
“It also encapsulates the Trust’s deep commitment to education as it brings to life and showcases such a significant part of the area’s industrial heritage.”
The museum’s team of volunteers celebrated the successful year at a recent
Councils
Purbeck Mining Museum volunteers with their Arts Council England accreditation
PHOTO: Andrew PM Wright
Wareham Wednesdays: new faces on top team
THIS year will bring with it a refreshed Wareham Wednesdays committee with new faces in key roles.
Antony Pack has been appointed as new chair. He has played a major part in the Wareham Wednesdays team since 2014 and is its first aid representative.
Ant has now taken on the mantle of the chairmanship and brings with him a ‘cool and calm’ approach.
Andy Critchell has been appointed as new vice-chair. He has been a major support and key member of the committee since Covid, playing a pivotal role in making sure things get to the right place at the right time.
Andy puts in many hours working behind the scenes to ensure the events go ahead without any issues.
Jude Marquet, who does a fabulous job looking after the money, remains in her role as treasurer.
She not only ensures the finances are kept under control, but has played a major part in encouraging sponsorship from local businesses, which has enabled the Wareham Wednesday team to provide the level of entertainment enjoyed by all.
Revellers enjoy a Wareham Wednesday on the quay
Helen Casey has been appointed secretary, having joined the committee in 2018 as a note-taker, and has become increasingly involved ever since.
Helen said: “I firmly believe these events help put Wareham on the map – I speak to many holidaymakers who plan their visits to coincide with our events.
“Wareham Wednesdays has a lot to be proud of!”.
All the team are keen to offer new ways of working behind the scenes, with the aim of making the events run smoothly and raise even more money for local good causes.
A lot of work is still to be done to plan each event in detail, but the team have already put the wheels in motion, and this year plan a new event for August 6.
The Chairman’s Charity event will have a Second World War theme and include fancy dress.
Antony has this year proposed the Dorset branch of the British Association for Immediate Care (BASICS) as his chosen charity.
BASICS aims to encourage and aid the formation and extension of immediate care schemes.
It was founded in 1977 and relies on volunteer medical professionals to provide healthcare assistance in support of the emergency services.
This event is followed by the very familiar and successful Wheelbarrow Race on August 13, the Pirate Invasion on August 20 and the Raft Race on August 27.
The Wareham Wednesday team are proud to have donated
£4,000 to local good causes in 2024.
They are now asking local people to suggest which organisations should benefit from any profits from this year’s events.
They are looking for three further local good causes that deserve help.
Anyone who would like to make a suggestion, should write to Jude Marquet, at The Club, 10b South St, Wareham BH20 4LT by the March 31 deadline.
The letter should include information about why the good cause deserves a donation and about what it would do with the money.
The Wareham Wednesday events would not happen without a tiny group of volunteers, including those who are on site several hours before the events start to supervise road closures or the site layout. Other tasks include serving behind the bar and collecting donations, and clearing up after everyone has gone home.
Anyone who would like to become a part of the Wareham Wednesday team should either email warehamwednesdays@ gmail.com or visit the website, www.warehamwednesday.co. uk, and complete the ‘I would like to volunteer’ contact form.
Anyone who cannot volunteer, but who would like to help financially, can donate via the Wareham Wednesdays Just Giving page.
Any help would be gratefully received! CONTRIBUTED
Parish
by Chris
Slade,
retired Dorset rights of way officer
BURLESTON is a long narrow parish that has recently been absorbed into adjacent Tolpuddle. It has few rights of way, so the walk is there and back and is less than three miles long. The bridleway, Burleston Drove, starts in the tiny village a little to the east of Athelhampton. It leads
north, past some houses.
As soon as you are about to enter the first field, you’ll see on your left the church, which is tiny with an almost square footprint and in need of maintenance as it’s lost its roof!
Carry on up the Drove and you’ll soon come to the bridge over the A35 dual carriageway. Pause to wave at the drivers.
About a third of them wave back or flash their lights! Next, the bridleway skirts Burleston Plantation on a steep bank to your right.
Then, after passing through a gate, you enter Burleston Down, which is Access Land. In the summer it’s full of flowers and wildlife but there’s not much at this time of year. There’s also a chalk pit where
you can see geological strata. Looking down to your left, you’ll see large water meadows which are fed by the Devil’s Brook, which forms the parish boundary.
Eventually, you come to the A354, beyond which there’s no public right of way, so turn around and walk back enjoying the views from a different direction.
£500,000 point reached in hospital appeal
SIGNIFICANT enhancements to Dorset County Hospital in Dorchester are one step closer after a charity appeal reached a significant milestone.
Dorset County Hospital Charity launched a £2.5 million emergency department and critical care appeal to make ‘significant enhancements’ to the hospital’s new emergency department and critical care unit, with construction already started at the hospital.
The appeal has now reached its first major milestone with £500,000 now raised.
Dorset County Hospital Charity says the hospital does not currently have sufficient emergency department and critical care unit capacity to meet existing and future demand.
The emergency department was built to accommodate 22,000 attendances but in 2021/22 attendances were 50,119.
Money from the appeal will support construction of the new emergency department and critical care unit which will ‘significantly improve the hospital’s capacity and transform the experience of emergency and critical care patients and their families’.
Head of the charity, Simon Pearson, has thanked people for
LUNCH MENU 2 FOR 1
MONDAY TO SATURDAY
their support.
“We are extremely grateful for the wonderful support of our local community, organisations and businesses in helping us to achieve this important milestone,” he said.
Dr David Quick, Dorset County Hospital critical care consultant, said: “We are delighted to mark the emergency and critical care appeal reaching £500,000 and very grateful for all the support of our local community.
“We encourage everyone to make a difference and help us to move the target towards the appeal’s goal of £2.5m.”
The appeal will help fund the creation in the emergency department of a dedicated relatives’ room, a child and adolescent mental health suite, and improved staff welfare facilities, as well as uplifting art and design elements.
Improvements to the critical care unit include paediatric bed space and equipment, relatives’ overnight accommodation, staff rest and quiet areas, overnight accommodation, a patient garden, and uplifting art and design elements.
To find out more about the appeal and how to support it, visit www.dchcharity.org.uk or email the charity team at charity@dchft.nhs.uk.
The Emergency and Critical Care Appeal has a £2.5 million target
Photographer Andy plants for the future
AN award-winning Purbeck photographer is passing on his love of nature by planting a tree for every job he undertakes.
Swanage-born Andy Farrer, 51, decided to embark on the scheme after witnessing dramatic deforestation during his travels around the world, which has increased his fears over habitat loss and climate change.
A tree will now be planted for every order he receives for
Funworld knocked back over sign plans
PLANS to bring the branding of Funworld Amusements in Swanage under one roof have hit a snag as planning officers refused plans for an illuminated sign.
his evocative photographs, every workshop or personal tuition session he runs and every professional printing job he carries out at his studio in Corfe Castle’s Sandy Hill arts complex.
Andy, who specialises in landscape and wildlife photography, said: “I got my love of nature as a kid, birdwatching and walking along our wonderful Jurassic coast.
“And I’ve been lucky
J Holland and Sons purchased the amusement park in Shore Road in 2023, and the new owners have already replaced many of the signs on the building.
The company recently submitted plans to replace the last remaining fascia signs above the covered walkway/ veranda on the north and east elevations and to remove the cartoon-style Funworld signs, with the sign on the north side
enough to continue an outdoor life as a career, showcasing not only Dorset but countries I have visited all over the globe.
“I’ve seen first-hand the deforestation in places like Brazil and Madagascar, and I’ve seen the opposite in the dense woodlands of Finland.
“It made me intrinsically aware of how important trees are and how important it is to maintain this fragile planet for future generations.”
Andy was named Landscape Photographer of the Year in 2015 in an international competition entered by thousands of his peers – and has been shortlisted on several more recent occasions.
His winning photo, ‘Bat’s Head in the Snow’, is a wintry view of the headland west of
only to be illuminated.
The 4.3mx1.4m sign was planned to have been finished in blue and yellow to match the new-look signs and would have been illuminated when the arcade is open for business.
Dorset Council has now rejected the plans, raising concerns the illuminated sign would result in light pollution.
On behalf of the applicant, agent Salmon Planning
Lulworth Cove.
For his tree-planting, he uses the services of Londonbased company Treeapp.
Payments he makes digitally are passed to teams in Britain and across the world who employ local people, including farmers, to run nurseries and plant saplings.
The firm has planting and carbon-offsetting links with far larger organisations than Andy’s, such as Virgin, Marriott and the NHS.
Andy said: “It’s a nice idea that aligns with my upbringing and my values.
“It seems to me that trees are being chopped down all over the place.
“So, if I can at least stem some of that and make a positive difference in my own small way, then why not?”
Company said the area near the proposed new signs is already lit up by street lighting and festoon lighting along Shore Road, with the nearby Mowlem Theatre and Harlees restaurant also externally lit, along with the shops in Station Road and Institute Road.
To view the plans, search P/ ADV/2024/06115 on the planning section of Dorset Council’s website.
Photographer Andy Farrer (above) and his award-winning photo ‘Bat’s Head in the Snow’ (right)
Rescuers called to cliff fall dog
A DOG was rescued by a coastguard rescue team after it fell 120ft from a cliff in Purbeck.
The spaniel, Harley, fell onto the rocky beach below the coast path north of Old Harry Rocks off Studland.
A spokesperson for Swanage Coastguard said Harley was not believed to have suffered any major injuries.
The Coastguard is now reminding dog owners, following the incident on January 2, to keep their fourlegged friends on a lead if exploring the cliffs.
“Swanage Coastguard Rescue Team (CRT) were tasked to their second incident of 2025, supported by St Alban’s CRT – [a] dog over cliff on the coast path north of Old Harry Rocks.
Sunday Roast
“The owner did exactly the right thing by calling 999 and asking for the [Coastguard].
“Arriving on scene, the team quickly located the owner. Harley the spaniel fell 120ft – over 35 metres – and was on the rocky beach below.
“Due to accessibility and risk associated with putting a Coastguard rope technician over the cliff, the officer in charge requested assistance from Swanage RNLI’s Inshore Lifeboat (ILB) who would be able to, more safely, get Harley secure.”
The Coastguard said that while they were awaiting the Swanage ILB, they witnessed another dog narrowly avoid running off the cliff edge as it was not on a lead.
“It was only the quick actions of Coastguard Officers
Join us to enjoy a traditional Sunday Roast.
Includes a choice of Chicken, Pork & Beef (vegan alternatives on request) seasonal vegetables, Yorkshires and crispy roasties
Regular Roast
Small Portion £12.95
Pre-Booking is recommended
present by grabbing the dog that prevented this,” a spokesperson added.
“Swanage ILB successfully collected Harley from the rocky beach and transported her to South Beach, Studland, where her owners would be waiting.
“At this time, we do not believe Harley has suffered any major injuries from the fall –owners were encouraged to take Harley to a vet immediately.
The Village Inn Open Daily
Open all day for drinks
Food served
12.00pm-2.00pm 5.30pm-8.30pm Drinks Served 9.30am-10pm Winter closing times subject to change
“We would like to take this opportunity to remind the public to keep dogs on leads near cliff edges – it only takes seconds for your family walk to end in disaster and even the most well-behaved dog can become distracted by a scent or wildlife.
“If the worst does happen, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard, just like the owner of Harley did.”
Family Sharing Roast
Gather the Family around the table and let us do the rest.
Our family sharing roast includes a choice of meats (vegan alternatives on request) lots of seasonal vegetables, Yorkshires and crispy roasties.
£50 per Platter
Made for a family of 4, larger parties or appetites can order extra portions at supplementary cost.
Booking 48hrs in Advance Required
Harley the Spaniel is believed to have avoided major injuries PHOTOS: Swanage Coastguard Rescue Team
Beerex treat for fans of real ale
BEERS and ciders from near and far will feature in the annual Dorchester Beerex at the Corn Exchange.
The event, now in its 36th year, is organised by members of West Dorset Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) and Dorchester Casterbridge Rotary Club.
It will raise money for several good causes, but the main benefactor will be Yeovil Freewheelers Blood Bikes, whose volunteers transport medical supplies to hospitals in Dorset and Somerset.
Proceeds from a raffle will go to Dorchester Youth & Community Centre in King’s Road, which provides a place for youngsters to meet safely and take part in activities.
Cerne Abbas Brewery is once again sponsoring the festival. Its representatives will be at the event and visitors will have a chance to try a selection of its ales, including a festival special 94 IPA.
Beerex committee chair, Gemma Scott, said: “The committee has been working hard in preparation for the weekend and we all can’t wait for it to arrive.
“The beer selection sounds fantastic, and I can’t wait to try some”.
She added: “This would not be possible without the donations from sponsors, the hard work of committee members and the army of volunteers.”
Beers from all around the UK will feature. Dorset sees a rare appearance from Lyme Regis Brewery and its Steady Habits brew, a New England style IPA usually only made as a keg beer.
Dorchester brewer Copper St returns with its award-winning Imperial Russian Stout and Wimborne brewery Eight Arch with a cask version of its Quarterjack Porter.
Further afield, Liverpool’s Neptune brewery provides Jetty Pale Ale, from Scotland comes Brew Toon and Loch Leven breweies, and, from Northumberland, Metal Head Brewery’s Motorhead Porter.
Beers will be on offer to suit all palates, from golden bitters, traditional bitters and stouts to porters and milds, as well as a large selection of traditional ciders made free of concentrate.
Hot snacks will be available
and cloakroom, along with a small selection of wines.
Local acoustic artist Jack Daniels will provide live entertainment on Friday evening – expect fun and interactional banter.
Bournemouth-based covers band Bullitt make their Beerex debut on Saturday with tracks from Muse, Foo Fighters, Kings of Leon and The Killers, among others.
The festival is on Friday,
February 1. Tickets are available from the following outlets, priced £11, including a free pint, souvenir glass and programme: Dorchester – The Convivial Rabbit and Tom Brown’s; Poundbury – Brace of Butchers; Weymouth – The Globe Inn; online – www. camrawdorset.org.uk.
Anyone who would like to join CAMRA will get an additional two pints and an exclusive Dorchester Beerex
Danny England, of Cerne Abbas Brewery PHOTO: Rich Gabe
High flier: James goes solo at 17
A DORCHESTER student has achieved his dream after he performed a solo flight for the first time.
James Hall, 17, who attends Thomas Hardye Sixth Form, was awarded the Dennis Neal Trophy for most improved junior student pilot at Dorset Gliding Club (DGC), a nationally accredited junior gliding centre.
The award comes after he performed his first solo flight in an ASK-13 glider in November.
James, from Wyke Regis, said: “I am so proud of myself and very pleased to have
become a solo pilot.
“The first experience was like nothing before – tranquil and thrilling at the same time, as I knew I was free in the sky with just my aircraft, G-DCHW.
“Training for me was quite a journey – [it was] far from straightforward.
“It took a large amount of perseverance and fortitude –however the difficult times were made easier with the support and encouragement of my fellow club members, whom I thank.
“Achieving solo means so much to me.”
James’s aim is to one day follow in his grandfather’s footsteps and become a pilot in the armed forces.
“This recent achievement is a huge one towards my goal, as I have the responsibility to take care of my own aircraft and others, as well as being a leader on the ground to ensure the airfield runs smoothly and safely,” he added.
“Going solo is amazing and has changed my life now. It was
well worth putting some effort in to make it.
“At DGC I am the junior mentor, supporting and helping other juniors with day-to-day airfield activities and encouraging them to keep persisting with training.
“Being part of a gliding club is so much more than turning up and gliding on the weekend. It is a way of living your life and is my favourite thing to do outside of school.”
Brownsea Island volunteers wanted
THE National Trust will be recruiting volunteers to work on Brownsea Island at a special event today (Monday).
Visitors to Poole Central Library in the Dolphin Centre will be able to find out more about the variety of volunteer opportunities available.
Support and engagement volunteer, Paul Davis, said: “We love talking about beautiful Brownsea Island. Our volunteers have contributed immensely to maintaining the island's charm and welcoming atmosphere.
“This annual volunteer recruitment event is not just about combating the winter blues but also about fostering a sense of community and encouraging the concept of volunteering.”
Paul added: “Volunteering for the National Trust is not just about giving back, it's about
connecting with like-minded individuals, making new friends and learning more about the places you love.
“Last year volunteers contributed a staggering 30,316 hours to Brownsea Island and 62 new volunteers joined our friendly team.
“This event is a perfect opportunity to find out more and get involved.”
Senior volunteer and community officer, Dania Schmitz-Vaughan, said: “There are lots of reasons to join us, including training, friendship and experience.
“We think that becoming a volunteer on Brownsea Island would be a great way to start the new year.”
The volunteering event is on Monday, January 20, from 11am to 1pm – to find out more, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ brownsea-island.
James Hall takes to the skies and (inset) receives his wings
PHOTOS: Dorset Gliding Club
Gladiator: The story behind the modern myth
A CHISELLED man, complete with weapons, faces off against a snarling wild beast as thousands of enraptured fans look on…
It’s a scene from ancient Roman times, recreated in Hollywood movies like Gladiator and countless more, giving movie watchers a look into a horrific – yet thrilling –past.
But what if such gruesome battles between man and beast took place here, on our shores?
A talk at the Dorset Museum & Art Gallery in April will explore exactly that – and even how gladiatorial combat took place right here, in Dorset.
“Can we understand the reality of gladiator shows behind the modern myths,
especially in remote parts of the empire like Britain?,” a spokesperson said.
“Maumbury Rings and other Romano-British amphitheatres impress us still, but what happened within them?”
Dr John Pearce, a lecturer in archaeology at King’s College, London, will be on hand to explore the questions and the evidence we have regarding Roman gladiatorial activity in Britain – and in Dorset.
“This talk will explore recent research by the speaker and others on new discoveries and older finds, including objects, images and skeletal remains,” the spokesperson added.
“The evidence allows us to see not only the uncomfortable reality of death and mutilation
in arenas like those of Dorchester.
“It also illuminates the networks which brought star performers, human and animal, to Britannia from the furthest corners of the empire, and reveals the fan culture which sustained the holding of spectacles in its cities and garrisons.”
The event in Dorchester, running between 6pm and 7pm
on Thursday, April 24, is part of a public programme supporting the British Museum Partnership Exhibition with Colchester and Ipswich Museums: Gladiators of Britain, running from January 25 to May 11.
For more details, and to book tickets, visit www. dorsetmuseum.org/whats-on/ deadly-games-in-romandorchester-gladiator-shows-andbeastly-spectacles-in-britannia.
Dr John Pearce, a lecturer in archaeology at King’s College, London, will give a talk at Dorset Museum
Railway lover publishes new book
A SWANAGE author and historian has just published his seventh book.
Lifelong railway enthusiast and Swanage Railway volunteer, Bob Bunyar, has written a book about Military Branch Lines and sidings that served military establishments and installations, some going back to the First World War.
Blandford Camp Railways, while others are in Wiltshire and Wales.
Bob writes purely as a hobby, and enjoys the research for his books, although photographs of military establishments are difficult to obtain, due to secrecy in the world wars and because it was forbidden to take any images in war time.
Several of the lines are in Dorset, including the Bovington and
Reader’s picture
Enough information has now been collected for a second book on the subject, which it is hoped will be published towards the
end of 2025.
Bob published a book called Broken Wings earlier this year, about aviation mishaps in the Second World War, and he will be working on part two of this for publication around March/ April next year.
Aviation in the Second World War is another subject Bob enjoys researching and writing about.
Military Branch Lines costs £11.99 and is in A4 format with 89 pages. It is available from Swanage Bookshop in Station Road, Swanage, and from Swanage Railway’s shop at the town’s railway station.
Broken Wings, which costs £10.99, is also still available at these outlets.
Author Bob Bunyar at Corfe Castle station
Winter visitor creates a bit of a flutter
BIRDERS, photographers and the public were interested to see this snow bunting, a rare winter visitor to the south of the UK, at Hamworthy in Poole Harbour.
Tim Balmer, of Lydlinch, who sent in the picture, taken earlier this month, says the bird may have migrated from Iceland.
Quiz
evening date
CORFE Castle Village Hall is the venue for a quiz night in aid of Julia’s House children’s hospice on Friday, February 7, 2025, at 7pm.
Entry is £5 per person or £20 for a team of up to six people. A bar, tea and coffee will be on offer, along with a large raffle with good prizes.
For more information, email lesbrs1970@hotmail.com, or phone Barry on 07716 684853.
Shield your home from Care Costs & Inheritance Tax with a Living Trust.
A Living Trust, is a legal arrangement that allows you to protect your assets, including your home, from care costs along with potential inheritance tax implications. Here are a few key points to consider:
1. Asset Protection: By transferring ownership of your home and other assets to a living trust, can help protect them from certain creditors and potential claims, including care costs.
2. Care Costs: Placing your main home into a living trust can ring fence the property from any potential future care costs. Thus, protecting your inheritance
3. Inheritance Tax Planning: A living trust can be part of an estate planning strategy to minimize inheritance tax liability. By placing assets into a trust, they can be excluded from your taxable estate upon your passing, potentially reducing the amount of inheritance tax your beneficiaries would owe.
4. Reversable Nature:
One of the advantages of a living trust is that it is reversable, meaning you can make changes to the trust or remove your home from the trust during your lifetime. This flexibility allows you to adapt to changing circumstances or wishes.
5. Trust Administration: When you establish a living trust, you typically designate yourself as the trustee alongside one to three other trustees. Thus, maintaining control over the assets and allowing you to continue using and managing them as you did before. Surviving trustees take over the administration of the trust upon your incapacity or death.
The effectiveness of a living trust in achieving your specific goals will depend on your individual circumstances. Oakwood Wills offer a free consultation in the privacy of our own home. Tel 07832 331594 email: info@oakwoodwills. co.uk
Better by design – cup will help cut plastic waste
THE Wimborne Minster Folk Festival is a great event that draws huge crowds to the town to enjoy the dancing and bands.
But it also produces a lot of plastic waste.
To tackle this plastic waste, local environmental community groups, Planet Wimborne and Wimborne War on Waste, have teamed up with folk festival organisers, the town council, Wimborne BID and most of the town’s pubs to launch the reusable Wimborne Cup at this year's festival.
The Wimborne Cup can then be used for any other event in the town.
Sarah Wise, from Wimborne War on Waste, said: “We live in a beautiful town that is known
for its environmental credentials, including achieving Plastic Free Community status in 2018.
“The introduction of the Wimborne Cup is a great way for the town to cut down plastic waste."
Now members of the public have the chance to help design the artwork for the cup so that it reflects the town's historic achievements and landmarks.
Local artist, Becky Dodd, of Doddy Design, has been commissioned to produce the design for the cup.
Becky said: “I'm so excited to be producing the artwork for the Wimborne Cup and really want to know what the public want to see on the cup.
“You just need to go to my Doddy Design website – https:// doddydesign.com/wimbornecup-questionnaire – to leave your ideas by Friday, January 31.”
Becky will produce three designs and the public will have the opportunity to vote on their favourite.
At the folk festival pubs will offer the reusable Wimborne Cup for £1. The cup can then be used at all the other participating pubs and so cut down on plastic waste.
In the picture (from left) Sarah Wise (Wimborne War on Waste), Linda Bunting (Planet Wimborne), Becky Dodds (Doddy Design) and Katherine Valenti (landlady of the Green Man and chair of Wimborne Pubwatch)
PHOTO: Planet Wimborne
In addition, people visiting the town will be encouraged to bring their own reusable festival cup and, providing it is marked for a pint measure, the pubs will be happy to use them. This scheme is based on other successful UK street festivals.
Katherine Valenti, landlady of The Green Man and chair of Wimborne Pubwatch, said: “We are 100% behind this scheme and see it as a great way for the pubs of Wimborne to help cut plastic waste.”
36 charities share in £487,455 of grants
TALBOT Village Trust, a grant-giving charity committed to enhancing community wellbeing, has awarded more than £487,455 to 36 charitable organisations in Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch, Purbeck and East Dorset.
The funding, part of the trust’s second grant cycle of last year, will help support a wide variety of local initiatives aimed at making a positive difference.
The grants, range from £500 to £40,000. Among the beneficiaries were:
n BOWRA Foundation: £7,310 to support a year-long programme of activities at Hamworthy Park for stroke survivors and individuals living with brain injuries.
n Diverse City: £40,000 for a two-year creative performing arts programme designed for d/ Deaf, disabled and disadvantaged individuals aged 16-35.
n Home-Start Wessex: £7,075 to fund the ‘Kinson Haven Family Group’, supporting disadvantaged families with young children experiencing mental health challenges and isolation.
n Mosaic – Supporting Bereaved Children: £18,969 to contribute to the charity's running costs.
n Poole Communities Trust: £15,000 towards the design and build of a skatepark on Turlin Moor, Poole, ensuring a further boost to help achieve their fundraising target.
n PramaLife: £11,600 to recruit a part-time project coordinator to manage volunteers supporting carers of individuals living with dementia and to establish a new peer support group for dementia carers in Christchurch over 12 months.
n YMCA Bournemouth: £5,000 to support the delivery of free and paid one-to-one counselling.
Get ready to get muddy!
EXCITEMENT is building as Lewis-Manning Hospice Care announces the return of the much-loved Muddy Dog Dash to Upton Country Park.
This fun-filled, familyfriendly event invites dog lovers, adventure seekers and supporters to tackle a muddy obstacle course while raising funds for the charity.
The Muddy Dog Dash, now in its third year, offers participants the choice of two routes – 2.5km or 5km – which feature obstacles such as muddy ditches, tunnels, wiggle poles and the ever-popular tyre runs and ramps.
This year’s event, on Saturday, March 29, introduces new features, including a Doggy Disco and Colour Rope Jumps.
Whether participants walk, jog or skip, the event is all about having fun and creating memories – all while supporting Lewis-Manning Hospice Care’s vital work for people living with life-limiting illnesses and their families.
The event village will feature plenty of entertainment for participants and spectators, including live music and entertainment from HOT Radio;
Dulcie takes a trip back in time
food and drinks from the Upton Country Park Tea Rooms & Kiosk; meet-and-greet Bluey the Dog mascot (£5 per photo); and craft and cheer stations for younger attendees and enthusiastic supporters and the opportunity to stay dry, if needed.
All funds raised will go towards supporting LewisManning Hospice Care, a charity that has provided care for over 30 years to people across Poole, Purbeck, East Dorset and West Hampshire. From day hospices to bereavement services for patients, every step, and wagging tail, helps it continue its mission to bring comfort, care and compassion to people when they need it most.
Anna Durose, events fundraiser at Lewis-Manning
EVENT DETAILS
Hospice Care, said: “A heartfelt thank you to our incredible sponsors, partners and volunteers who help to make the event possible, with special mention to Barratt Homes, our headline sponsor.
“We are also grateful to Care South for their kind support and look forward to welcoming their residents to watch and cheer on our Muddy Dog Dashers.
“The Muddy Dog Dash is one of our most loved events, and we’re thrilled to bring it back for 2025 at Upton Country Park.
n Where: Upton Country Park, Poole
n When: Saturday, March 29
n Event village opens: 11am
n Wave 1 participants start: Noon
n Parking is available at Upton Country Park with 400 spaces and easy access by car, train, bus, bike and on foot.
n For more information, contact Anna Durose at anna. durose@lewis-manning.org.uk.
from the age of 15 at the dispensary in Poole High Street between 1950 and 1960.
On a visit to Boots in Branksome, Poole, she was transported back in time through old photographs and reminisced with the store’s pharmacist and assistant pharmacist about taking minibus journeys to deliver medications to those in need.
MEMORIES of working at Boots in the 1950s have been rekindled for Upton Bay, Hamworthy, care home resident Dulcie Brown.
Dulcie worked as a pharmacy assistant
Dulcie also remembered the make-up products and perfumes that women used more than six decades ago, and customers queuing up for various departments.
She took along cakes and mince pies for the staff and was given a ‘goody’ bag.
“Whether you’re running, walking or cheering from the sidelines, every step makes a difference to our patients and their families that we support. We can’t wait to see everyone there!”
To sign up, visit lewismanning.org.uk/muddy-dogdash – the first 100 entrants will receive a free T-shirt.
Entrance is £15 for dog and adult; £10 for dog and child; £25 for family (two adults and two children); £10 adult only; £5 child only; additional dog £5. T-shirts will be available priced £6.
Participants are encouraged to raise a minimum of £50 sponsorship per dog, with all proceeds going to support Lewis-Manning Hospice Care's services.
Entrants will receive a JustGiving link to create their own fundraising page upon registration.
The Lewis-Manning Hospice Care Muddy Dog Dash is returning to Upton Country Park in the spring
Oh, what a picture, what a photograph!
MEMBERS of Poole Harbour Canoe Club took hundreds of photos during their activities last year and entered them in monthly competitions.
The best images went into a Christmas/New Year competition with the winners
featured here.
The club is an active kayak, canoe and stand-up paddleboarding group with bases at Lake Pier on the shoreline of the harbour and at Wimborne’s Riverside Park (Wimborne Paddlesport), next to the
Dreamboats landing stage on the River Stour.
The competitions aim to encourage more members to take a camera while out paddling and capture the wildlife they may encounter, coastal views, amusing experiences or the weather.
WINNER: Bill Richmond
SECOND: Leigh van der Byl
THIRD: Max Wrayr
COMMENDED: David Macbeth (above), Greg Harrington (below) and Dave Carver (bottom)
COMMENDED: Keith Hawkins
COMMENDED: Stephanie de Ruiter
Museum staging winter lectures
THIS winter Wareham Town Museum will feature a full ensemble of lectures and talks covering topics from real or fake artworks, the natural beauty of Dorset, the ‘unlawful act of smuggling’ and the Iron Age People of Dorset.
Led by distinguished academics, writers, artists and other experts, the museum’s lectures provide a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the diverse history and culture of Dorset.
“We'll explore the less obvious aspects of Dorset history, investigate unexpected stories and discover the innumerable ways that we can learn about the past,” said Paul Willis, museum manager.
“So come and expand your horizons, broaden your perspectives and cultivate a deeper appreciation for our wonderful county of Dorset.”
All lectures are free of charge and open to the public, but donations are greatly appreciated.
They will be held in the Town Hall, Corn Exchange. Doors will open at 1.45 pm with lectures starting at 2pm. Tea and coffee will be served after each lecture.
n Wednesday, January 22. Trick or Treat? Fakes and Forgeries in the Art Market – Richard Kay FOR centuries, many people have been fooled by forgeries and the art market today still holds pitfalls for picture collectors.
Richard Kay looks at a few categories of fakes and forgeries – and at three men who tried and suc-ceeded in fooling the art market – at
least for a while.
It includes a few clues about how forgeries have been devised over the centuries to try and trick the trusting into a trap.
n Wednesday, January 29. The Natural Beauty of Dorset – Colin Varndell
COLIN Varndell has been photographing the landscape and wildlife for over 30 years.
He has won awards four times in the prestigious international Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition.
And his pictures have been used to promote the BBC and the work of many conservation organisations.
The audience is invited to go on a tour of Dorset’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty through a series of breathtaking views and stories of wildlife along the way.
Dorset whose work has appeared in The Guardian, Caught by the River, The Bookseller, Slightly Foxed and Echtrai Journal.
He is editor of Going to Ground, an anthology of nature and place writing. Jon works for the acclaimed Dorset publisher Little Toller Books.
n Wednesday, February 26. Smuggling – Mike Randall VISITORS can hear tales of places, incidents and lesserknown Dorset men and women involved in the illicit smuggling trade during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Mike is a Fellowship College Preceptors (FCollP); LCP, BA (Hon); CEd (Merit) and volunteer in the courtroom of Shire Hall Courthouse Museum, Dorchester, where many trials of smugglers took place.
including exciting results from analysis of DNA that reveal the people of Iron Age Dorset were a unique group with a highly distinctive identity.
n Wednesday, March 19. The Literary Landscapes of Dorset – Dr Kevan Manwaring, Arts University Bournemouth DORSET is a county as rich in literary heritage as it is in natural beauty.
Thomas Hardy, Jane Austen, John Fowles and Tracy Chevalier are only some of the great writers whose work has both drawn upon Dorset and has become associated with its landscapes and land-marks.
In this talk, writer and academic, Dr Kevan Manwaring, will offer an entertaining guided tour –offering both an overview to the unfamiliar, and insights and surprises to those already acquainted with the area.
n Wednesday, March 26. Who Was Sir James Thornhill (1675/6-1734) –Dr Paul Willis SIR James Thornhill is best remembered today for the beautiful mural paintings that can be admired in the Painted Hall, Old Royal Naval College.
n Wednesday, February 5. Creechbarrow Seven – John Wareham
JOHN Wareham will detail the life and duties of the Creechbarrow Seven, an auxiliary unit based in the Purbeck hills during the Second World War.
n Wednesday, February 19. Real Dorset – Jon Woolcott
THE audience will go on an illustrated whistle-stop tour of Dorset with Jon Woolcott, who will delve into the county's more surprising histories.
Jon is a writer from north
n Wednesday, March 12. Iron Age People of Dorset – Dr Martin Smith, Associate Professor of Biological Anthropology, Bournemouth University
ARCHAEOLOGISTS from Bournemouth University have been excavating near Winterborne Kingston since 2009.
Over time they have uncovered a wealth of new information about the people who inhabited this landscape centuries before and after the Roman Conquest.
Dr Smith will present the project’s latest findings,
Yet how did Thornhill, a relatively unknown artist, aged 32, win the commission, and what were his connections with Dorset?
In this illustrated talk, audience members will discover the life and times of Sir James Thornhill, a grocer’s son, and his rise to achieve a level of success of no other English artist before him.
Admission is free for all lectures. Places may be booked online at https://www. eventbrite.co.uk/o/warehamtown-museum-94862117893
For further information about the lecture series, phone 07931 983696 or 01929 553448.
Sport
Swans start year with home defeat
by Ron Butler
Swanage & Wareham 13
Devizes 28
SWANAGE & Wareham
welcomed Devizes 1st XV to Bestwall for the first game of the new year.
Swans attacked in the opening half hour, but Devizes defence remained solid and Swans turned around in arrears.
Swans went through to the Devizes 22 from the kick-off but from a scrum the visitors broke clear, only to be halted close to Swans line. However, after a scrum and a couple of phases, Devizes scored a converted try with only four minutes played.
Swans had most of the possession in the next 20 minutes, but could not get through the Devizes defence, preferring to keep the ball tight rather spread it to the wing. But on 25 minutes the ball
Letters
Hospice chief’s thanks message
I WOULD like to express my heartfelt thanks to Purbeck Gazette readers and the community for their invaluable support of Lewis-Manning over the past year.
Your generosity and commitment have made a profound difference, enabling us to achieve remarkable milestones in enhancing palliative care for our community. Together, we have:
n Developed the anticipatory care model of Hospice at Home for Poole & Purbeck, bringing compassionate care directly to families in need, in their own homes.
n Strengthened our ‘Closer to
RUGBY
went wide, the winger was tackled close to the line and full back George Crouch was on hand to pick up and score. The conversion was missed (5 points-7).
The visitors had a couple of penalties from the restart which took them into Swans 22, and from a catch/drive move Devizes scored their second try, which was converted (5-14), after 35 minutes.
Swans went back into the Devizes 22 and were awarded a penalty under the posts which Matt Spencer put over, taking the score to 8-14 at half-time.
The second half started badly for Swans, giving away an early penalty, and from the line-out Devizes broke clear. Swans missed the tackle and the visitors scored their third converted try after 43 minutes (8-21).
Devizes were on the offensive for most of the rest of the game with the odd penalty for relief on Swans part.
Another Devizes move resulted in a scrum close to Swans line and from a push over Devizes scored their bonus point try. This was converted
(8-28) after 55 minutes. Both teams were guilty of giving away penalties and from one Swans put the ball on the Devizes five-metres line. The ball came out to full back George Crouch after a catch/ drive move and he went in for his second try and the final score of the game, after 70 minutes.
Swans: George Crouch, Rory Ferguson, Matt Spencer, Ed Dimascio, Ollie Dillon, Tom Munns, Ollie Peters, Steve Waterman, Jay Phillips, Nick Audley,Duncan McDermid, George Slack, Tom Holland,Kian Salina, Joe Desmond, Zack Wyburgh, Sam Chapman, Jacob Marshall.
OTHER RESULT: Swanage & Wareham Ladies 0 Devizes Ladies 86
Swanage & Wareham 2nd XV 37
Lychett Minster 1st XV 8
SWANAGE gave away a few penalties at the start but one to Swans took them into their opponent’s 22 and fly-half Lewis Reeves put the home side three points up from the spot. It was all Lychett Minster for the next quarter of an hour before Lewis Reeves picked up the ball and worked his way through the visitor’s defence to score a try out wide.
Ten minutes later, a move
along Swans three-quarters saw winger Isea Drecala score close to the flag, which left Swans 13-0 ahead at half-time.
Swans started the second half as the first but this time it was in their own 22 and Lytchett Minster took the three points.
A Swans backs move from the restart saw winger Meli Yawailagi score half way out.
Swans kept giving away penalties and after 54 minutes one in Swans 22 saw the visitors power over the line to make the score 18-8.
Isea Drecala fielded a kick ahead and burst through the Lytchett Minster defence to score under the posts, and Reeves added the extras.
The ball was moved along the Swans backs from the restart to centre Rory Ferguson to take the score to 30-8 on the hour mark.
An injury to a Lytchett Minster player saw the game moved to the first team pitch then a break by Swans on 70 minutes resulted in a foul tackle under the posts and Swans were awarded a penalty try.
n SWANAGE & Wareham 1st XV’s away game at Frome was postponed due to a frozen pitch.
Home’ services across East Dorset and Purbeck, ensuring more accessible support for patients and their loved ones.
n Supported more than 1,300 patients this year, offering comfort and dignity during their most challenging times.
n Expanded our care offerings to include Occupational Therapy, providing vital support to improve quality of life for our patients.
n Enhanced our Complementary Therapy services, addressing the holistic needs of patients and their loved ones.
n Developed our Family Support services, now extending to children and young people, recognising the importance of supporting the entire family at
end of life.
Our patron and HM Lord Lieutenant of Dorset, Michael Dooley, said: “These achievements were recently recognised when I was honoured to present this amazing charity with the Social Impact Award at the annual Dorset Chamber of Commerce’s Business Awards.
“This is testament to the outstanding work that LewisManning Hospice Care does.
“This is a charity that makes such a huge difference to the lives of people across Dorset with life-limiting illness.
“A huge thanks to everyone who supports this very worthwhile, innovative charity”.
I would like to add that none of this would have been
possible without the extraordinary kindness of our supporters – people like Purbeck Gazette readers.
On behalf of Lewis-Manning Hospice Care and the families we serve, thank you for being part of this journey.
Your generosity continues to inspire hope and make a real difference in the lives of so many.
As we look ahead, we are determined to build on these successes and extend our reach even further.
With your continued support, we can achieve even more for the people of Dorset. Thank you once again!
Clare Gallie Chief executive, Lewis-Manning Hospice Care
Not such bright sparks at electricals store
IREALLY hope you had a wonderful Christmas and enjoyed seeing the New Year in! We did, even though we both succumbed to a chesty cough and a cold. But we were happy, warm and well-fed, and that’s a great deal more than can be said for too many people these days. Once again, I encourage you to take all your spare – in-date –food to your local foodbank – I know they will find good use for it!
Just a quick reminder to everyone that Swanage Foodbank has moved. Its new home is in the Swanage United Reformed Church – 112 High Street. The hours it is open remain the same – Monday, Wednesday and Friday, noon2pm, excluding Bank Holidays – and its main phone number is unchanged – 07759 230313. However, it has changed its admin phone number – for donations, general enquiries etc – to 07754 081420.
Wareham food bank continues to provide food parcels to families on low income and homeless people. Opening times include Monday between 11am-1pm and Thursdays between 1pm-3pm. For anyone needing urgent support, it is asked that they email rather than phone.
Food is delivered by the church on arrangement with doctors or other professionals, supported by Churches Together. Anyone who would like to donate can do so at Wareham Parish Hall, Wareham Quay, on the last Saturday of the month or go to Sure Start centres in Wareham and Bovington. For further information please call 07840 408475.
WE decided that a few items of our domestic equipment had
by David Hollister
passed their sell-by dates, so we ventured into a large domestic appliance retailer in Poole. It’s a long time since I have done so, and I can assure you it will be a very, very long time before we do so again.
The staff all appeared to be talking to each other or checking their phones – clearly the sight of an elderly couple looking confused over the choice of vacuum cleaner, iron and toaster was not sufficient stimulus to put them into ‘sell’ mode, so after 20 minutes hanging about, we walked out. And as we’d been unable to believe it, we went back the next day to the same result!
So, I guess we will keep our vacuum cleaner, iron and toaster for a few more years and put the money back into our bank! Where do they get these staff? And why, having employed them, do they not train them in basic customer service?
Once again, full marks to Swanage Rotarians who turned out to help Santa and his sleigh around our streets, who shivered their way through our excellent street market, worked in the Christmas shop, and even delivered Christmas mail to us! Resulting in an amazing £16,000 for Rotary charities.
AT 1.30pm on Saturday, January 4, Harley the springer spaniel was lucky to survive after falling 120ft over the cliff at Old Harry Rocks and that the Swanage lifeboat was available to rescue him. This was the lifeboat’s first call-out this year, but the second for Swanage Coastguard. And while all this was going on, he was very nearly joined by another free-running collie-type dog which was fortunate to be grabbed by a Coastguard officer
a split second before a similar downward plunge.
I am not a ‘dog person’, but really, does it take even an ounce of common sense to keep Rover on a lead when walking that close to the cliff-edge? Or indeed, to hold hands with your toddler on such a dangerous venture? Wouldn’t it be good not to have to report dogs and kids being put in danger at Old Harry this year, by thoughtless dog-owners or parents?
IWAS amazed to see a selection of classic automobiles making a pit stop at the newly reopened ‘Sandford’ pub in Dorset, to take part in the first New Year’s Day classic car rally. If I’d known more about it, I’d have planned my day better and stayed longer!
The pub on the busy A351 out of Wareham had become run down after unexpectedly closing in 2023, but it’s now been refurbished and renamed ‘Rivo’s Hub’ after being taken over by Richie Rivers and his partner Laura in summer 2024.
Richie stages the annual Dorset Volksfest on the Wareham showground and originally set up a ‘cars and coffee’ cafe in nearby Hamworthy, which was really successful.
They had planned to reopen the larger pub site in July 2024 but were delayed by several months due to the dilapidated state of the building. But enthusiasm and patience paid off, and just five days before Christmas, they were finally able to throw open their doors to everyone.
Richie and Laura decided to stage a New Year’s Day classic
car event, in the face of the rotten weather which had caused many planned events elsewhere to be called off. The gamble paid off as dozens of Dorset drivers who own classic American and British vehicles, from low-slung pick-up trucks to Land Rovers, were parked up outside the pub to the delight of hundreds of customers.
But this is not a ‘one-off’ –there will be as ‘classic car day’ every Sunday and Thursday evening bike nights as well. All this in addition to an ‘early bird’ daily breakfast menu.
I really hope to see their pub prosper this year. Imagine how good it could be if it wasn’t raining! So watch Rivo’s social media pages, watch your Purbeck Gazette and stay tuned to my show on Purbeck Sounds for further details. Better still, drop in as you drive past!
IBOUGHT a quantity of ferry tickets on a Sandbanks ferry card. Which I assumed lasted for ever, like the oldfashioned tickets. I have now received this: “This email is a friendly reminder that you have passes on your Sandbanks Ferry card that will be expiring soon. Please remember that passes are valid for two years from date of purchase.”
But nowhere on the email does it tell me what balance I have on my Sandbanks Ferry Card and I cannot reply as ‘this mailbox is not monitored’. So, I suppose I will have to go over the ferry once more – Saturday tomorrow and a trip to John Lewis (!) to find out what my unexpired balance is – now where can I go next week to use up the remainder?
PLACE 1 to 9 once into every black-bordered 3x3 area as well as each of the 54 rows indicated by the coloured lines. Rows don’t cross the thick black lines.
Killer Sudoku Pro
1 Alter surprised expression about backward dog (6)
4 Stick everyone gets within police (6)
9 Support afternoon meal for audience (3)
10 Set up chapter about number (9)
11 Bones in straight lines from the centre (5)
12 Disgusting unknown character in middle of week showing sinister glance (4,3)
14 Stylized italics lent sparkle (11)
17 Label I revised about old garden plant (7)
KILLER Sudoku Pro
18 Hiss off stage stupid person (5)
Down
1 Fully developed team played around old city (6)
2 Fear about to be found in pop (5)
3 Imaginary disagreement Republican brought out with a liberal (9)
5 Sensational Italian boxing noted ring champion (3)
6 Most noisy thug circling table mostly (7)
7 Expression of sympathy in article on religious education (5)
20 A girl chap upset is vividly depicted (9)
22 Payment or no payment right away (3)
23 Priests left measure of work in case of curacy (6)
Place numbers 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and bold-lined 3x3 box.
24 Cross part of lengthy bridge (6)
No digit may be repeated in any dash-lined cage, and all the digits in any cage must add up to the value shown in that cage.
8 Heir with ancient that’s formulated bequest (11)
13 Difficulty say with friendly country in criminal mode? (9)
15 Source of advice with time about British vegetable (7)
16 Back three successive notes before finish
17 See leader of group in charge showing reason (5)
19 Tender chest first off (5)
21 Embrace husband half with a nasty look!
Politics
Devolution must be genuine
THE Labour Government’s White Paper on devolution was published on December 16, outlining plans for radical reorganisation of local government in England. Devolution is the transfer or delegation of powers and funding from central to local government, or from a larger, higher status council to a smaller, lower ranking one. In theory at least, most of us look approvingly on devolution because it means decisions can be taken closer to the people and businesses affected by them. There is, however, the little matter of paying for devolved decision making, while the reality of devolution to date is that it’s been mostly top-down, government-driven. Going back even beyond the Redcliffe-Maud Report of 1969, Whitehall has a history of seeking to make its wishes for restructuring local government a condition of devolution, and as things stand it looks as if any forthcoming
devolution arrangements will be similarly linked to the adoption of central government priorities and/or central government’s preferred structure of local government.
Conservatives believe that such matters should be determined by local people and their representatives, who best understand their own areas.
What’s now in the offing looks suspiciously like John Prescott’s former, discredited regional government, rather than genuine devolution.
In support of any changes being locally led and driven by benefits for local residents, Conservatives have put forward a number of criteria which they believe restructuring should have to meet.
communities, and will there be no compulsion or penalties for councils opting not to restructure?
2 – Will any change help to keep Council Tax down, while improving local services and making them more responsive?
3 – Can restructuring avoid disruption of social care, given the intense cost pressures these services face, aggravated by Labour’s hike of National Insurance?
The most applicable to Purbeck and Dorset are:
1 – Is this a genuine choice for existing councils and
4 – Crucially, do a majority of local residents support the changes, will local government be more accountable as a result and will local people really have a greater say in decisions affecting themselves? (If and when it comes to determining the extent of Dorset residents’ support for changes, let there be no repetition of the two fundamental but unmistakably ‘leading’ questions in the 2016 consultation document –
questions which were supposed to gauge the level of support for merging this county’s four district councils, two borough councils and county council into two big ‘unitary’ authorities. They were contrived in such a way that answering ‘no’ to the amalgamation implied the responder didn’t care about service cuts, administrative waste or spiralling costs.)
Finally – January and February are the coldest months of the year. Dorset Council’s Severe Weather Protocol is in force, meaning no-one needs to be spending the night on the streets. Make known anyone requiring overnight emergency shelter via www.Streetlink.org.uk or contact the council’s housing advice service on 01305 221000 – line open 24/7 with outreach workers on hand.
COUNCILLOR BILL TRITE Conservative Dorset Council and Swanage Town Council
Reform UK going strong
BOXING Day saw Reform UK surge past the Conservative Party to become the UK’s second-biggest political Party by membership, this comes off the back of a new poll that now has Reform UK leading the Tories in National voting intentions. In Dorset, we are seeing massive increases in both our membership and those wishing to volunteer to be a part of the Party. Most interesting is that we are attracting people from all political backgrounds. My sincerest thanks to everyone who has joined the Party over the last few weeks In Dorset and put their faith in Reform UK to bring about the change our Country desperately needs. Be assured, we will deliver for you. 2024 was just the very start. 2025 will see our newly launched branches campaigning in every constituency in Dorset
as we set out our positive and radical agenda for change. If you would like more information on your new local branch, please do email me and I would be glad to put you in touch with your branch chair and local team.
The Child sexual exploitation and grooming gangs scandal is, without any question, one of the worst episodes in our Country’s modern history. The Crimes themselves, utterly shocking in their depravity, and the industrial scale of them, incomprehensible. It is perhaps the starkest illustration of how the experiment of multiculturalism has, beyond any question, failed.
Bill Trite Thomas Gargrave
Labour’s refusal to grant Oldham Council’s request for a government-led inquiry into said historical child sexual exploitation is categorically wrong and has sparked strong condemnation from Reform UK. Even the Conservatives have been outraged, that was until it was pointed out to them that they had also refused Oldham Council’s request for a government lead enquiry in 2022. After decades of failure by Labour and the Tories to properly get to the bottom of what has gone on in our towns and cities across England, it is time that we had a full and transparent Government lead inquiry, that leaves no stone unturned, and spells out to the
British public, in plain English, what has happened, how it was allowed to happen and, importantly, why virtually none of these men have been deported under the last Tory government despite many having dual nationality.
The Telegraph have written a superb article titled, “How the grooming gangs scandal was covered up”. The report makes for very difficult reading but if we are to bring the truth into the light and get real, lasting justice for the victims of these crimes we are going to have to confront very difficult truths, something prior Tory and Labour governments have failed to have the moral courage to do. Reform UK will be different. dorset@reformuk.com
THOMAS GARGRAVE Chair, South Dorset Constituency, Reform UK
Compassion stronger than hate
IT was announced in July that the Bibby Stockholm will close in January 2025. Our new MP, Lloyd Hatton, welcomes the decision. Labour MP Nadia Whittome, prevented from inspecting the barge soon after its arrival, said the refugees were ‘props’ in what was a ‘theatre of cruelty’.
I stood outside the gates of Portland Port in August 2023 with members of Dorset Stand Up to Racism. The first refugees to board the barge swept by in coaches with tinted black windows. Nick Clark, Rural Dean for Weymouth and Poole, spoke for us all when he said he was there ‘to make a stand to welcome the refugees’ – housing them on the barge looked like ‘incarceration’.
Portland Mayor Carralyn Parkes, unlike Nadia Whittome, did gain access to the barge. She saw cramped cabins, minimal social areas and narrow corridors which were clearly fire
risks. Indeed, the Fire Brigades Union said the barge was a ‘potential deathtrap’.
When refugee Leonard Farruku, a gifted musician, took his life in December 2023, it highlighted the isolation and sense of abandonment described by so many confined on the barge. Asylum applications took months to process.
The lack of privacy, indifferent food and restrictions on freedom of movement imposed by stringent security checks all took their toll. NGOs such as Care4Calais and One Life to Live reached out with support from day one – but so did the Portland Community. The Portland Global Friendship Group was formed in response to the arrival of men torn away by war or persecution from their loved ones. Welcoming social spaces provided friendship and
human connection. Volunteers stepped forward offering activities ranging from walking to fishing.
I met the refugees over coffee in Weymouth. I heard their stories. Giovanna Lewis, of the Friendship Group, told me of Salah, a young man who discovered he had a gift for marathon running. Salah endured unimaginable hardships as he sought asylum – enslaved in Libya, living rough on the Paris streets. There was no ‘safe’ route for him. Giovanna told me how some of the refugees had been tortured.
Yet the brave women who set up the Friendship Group faced hostility from those who said they were traitors to their community. Far-right groups, such as Britain First, distributed leaflets in Weymouth and Portland. Anti-immigrant
narratives spread by Conservative and UK Reform politicians emboldened racists. Virulent abuse online portrayed the refugees as potential rapists. Carralyn Parkes, who challenged the Home Office and Dorset Council over the barge, received death threats. Justifiable grievances – services starved of funding, low wages, precarious employment – were displaced into fear and hatred.
The refugees have now left the Bibby Stockholm. Salah lives in Scunthorpe, where he is thriving. In September he came first in his first trial marathon. In a message to the Friendship Group, Salah wrote: “Your support has meant the world to me, and I will never forget it. My heart is full of love and thanks for you all.” Salah’s words will stay with me. Compassion is always stronger than hate.
CHRIS BRADEY Chair, Swanage & Rural Purbeck Labour Party
Incinerator plans not dead yet
THE looming threat of an Energy from Waste facility (ERF) on Portland still exists despite recent pronouncements from Government – it is hoped either the High Court or commonsense will prevail and it’ll be stopped.
However, it’s worth looking at why these things exist and whether they’ll continue do so for the foreseeable future.
Back in the day, most of the stuff we threw out went into one bin and ended up being buried in landfill. I’m from Liverpool and a large area next to the Mersey not far south of the city centre was the main landfill site. It closed in the 80s after the Toxteth riots, and Michael Heseltine had been given the task of sorting the city out, and eventually became a housing estate. But the evidence remains in the form of vents for the methane arising from the biodegradable nature of much of
the buried waste.
Fortunately, things have progressed since then, with progressive governments legislating for and taxing waste, which has promoted recycling and made the use of landfill much, much more expensive for local authorities. An unfortunate side-effect, however, has been to promote the growth of ERFs, or incinerators as I’ll call them from now. There are two main reasons for this, and they aren’t those given by companies such as Veolia etc.
was too difficult, hence burning the waste instead. In general, biodegradable waste doesn’t now go to landfill but instead ends up in biodigesters to generate gas for fuel, and so historic issues with greenhouse gases leaching out no longer exist.
They promote incinerators as sustainable energy generators, reducing the use of fossil fuels and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The reality is that their growth has been because landfill got expensive, and many local authorities decided recycling
Dorset, both as a unitary authority and as the previous county council, has been at the forefront of recycling in England – indeed, our mantra is reduce, reuse, recycle.
Dorset Council is the top recycling unitary authority in England with a rate of just under 60% – against a national average of 43% – and we’ve improved since. What little waste we have left does end up being burned but we are reducing the quantity generated year on year by increasing the items we can recycle, improving
awareness of what can be recycled and which box/bin it should be put in and successfully persuading people to generate less waste. Dorset Council currently produces about 17% of the yearly capacity of the proposed incinerator on Portland and this will continue to reduce, meaning that up to 90% of the waste which may end up being burnt on the Jurassic Coast will actually be imported from elsewhere in the UK or from abroad.
If you haven’t yet made a New Year resolution, may I suggest that you buy less single use plastic, consume less overall and recycle as much as you can. Not only will your bank balance improve, but you’ll help make Dorset a nicer place to live at the same time.
IRELAND
NICK
Liberal Democrat Leader of Dorset Council
Nick Ireland
Chris Bradey
Motoring
Motorists want tougher sentences for drink-drivers
TOUGHER sentences have been found to be the most popular solution among motorists for tackling the scourge of drink-driving, new research from the RAC has revealed.
Four-in-10 motorists (38%) believe harsher sentences are the answer to curbing instances of drink-driving, which were responsible for the deaths of 300 people in 2022.
Drivers questioned for the RAC Report on Motoring 2024 were able to choose the three most effective of eight options to tackle drink-driving. Reducing the blood-alcohol limit for driving to zero was the second most popular with 34% of drivers opting for that, although this was only marginally ahead of the next three options.
A third of drivers (33%)
supported giving the police new powers to immediately disqualify drink-drivers at the roadside. Currently, only courts can impose bans, meaning after being stopped by a police officer, a drink-driver could continue to drive until their court appearance.
This was an idea put forward by Chief Constable Jo Shiner, the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) lead for roads policing, last year. Chief Constable Shiner said these powers would mean the police could ‘immediately take that risk off the road’.
The idea that convicted drink-drivers should have alcohol interlocks – ‘alcolocks’ – fitted to their vehicles to prevent them driving if they have any alcohol in their systems was favoured by 32% of those questioned by the RAC,
while a similar proportion (31%) wanted to see an increase in roadside breathalyser testing.
The RAC’s research also found the proportion of motorists who admit to drinkdriving in the past 12 months has increased slightly, from 7% in 2023 to 8% this year. But this is well below the 19% which was recorded before the pandemic in both 2018 and 2019.
Levels of admitted drugdriving remain very low –despite road fatality figures
indicating a rise in cases where drug-drivers were involved. Only 2% of drivers say they have driven after taking drugs – legal or illegal – that could negatively affect their performance at the wheel. Almost two-thirds of all drivers (64%) support tougher sentencing for drug-drivers, while 56% would like to see greater levels of roadside testing. Just under half (49%) want the police to be able to immediately disqualify drugdrivers at the roadside.
Public ‘positive’ on drink-drive reporting
MORE than 300 calls to police were made by members of the public in Dorset over the festive period reporting suspected drink or drug drivers – including a woman believed to be on cocaine during the school run.
Throughout December – the Christmas party season – Dorset Police ran a Festive Feedback campaign, which encouraged members of the public to report impaired drivers.
Each person who contacted police received a follow-up call updating them on the police response.
Now, officers have confirmed across December, 317 calls were received from members of
the public. Officers attended 129 of the incidents and were able to locate 90 of the vehicles involved – with 36 arrests.
Overall, more than one-third of the drink and drug drivers arrested during the month were as a result of reports from concerned members of the public.
Arrests that resulted from public calls included:
n A woman arrested who was reportedly under the influence of cocaine while on the school run.
n A man who was initially reported as a suspected drinkdriver was subsequently arrested on suspicion of
possessing drugs with intent to supply and was reportedly linked to an organised county lines drugs network.
n A man who was arrested, along with two passengers, on suspicion of drink-driving and theft of a motor vehicle who was also wanted on a prison recall.
Police backed up the initiative with a range of activity, carried out as part of the Operation Limit national drink and drug drive campaign, and efforts to raise awareness on the dangers and impacts of driving while impaired. This led to 11 arrests and 10 vehicles being seized.
Inspector Joe Wheable, of the Roads Policing Team, said: “The Festive Feedback initiative was all about improving public confidence and encouraging reporting to police by showing
that we will respond to calls around drink and drug action and take positive action.
“The response from those we contacted was overwhelmingly positive, with people indicating that being updated on the outcome of their call made them feel involved in the process.
“They also stated that they felt the call was dealt with professionally and that they agreed with the response taken by police as a result of their contact.
“Not only has the Festive Feedback campaign encouraged members of the public to report incidents to us, it has also provided us with invaluable data to use for future operations and campaigns.
“We would like to thank the community of Dorset for their fantastic response to this campaign.”
38% of motorists think harsher sentences would help curb drink-driving, according to an RAC survey
Laying the ground for a spring ‘explosion’
by Sally Gregson
OUR winters can be quite problematic to manage, and these days the extremes of weather can make them especially deceptive. It can all seem warm and dry, almost like a spring day, but in the early months of the year, as any gardener will say, things can turn wild in a night. But garden plants are doing what they have always done – readying themselves for the explosion of spring. And the explosion will have the best results by feeding the soil now, in winter. In a few
weeks’ time huge demands will be put on every flowering plant in the garden. And they all need to grow in conditions suited to their needs.
Well-rotted garden compost, devoid of weed seeds, is wonderful, but there’s rarely enough to go around. Local farms and riding stables will deliver trailer-loads of delicious, well-rotted manure. But all that goodness often contains countless seeds of dandelions, docks and thistles. These domestic weeds are not completely broken down by an
animal’s stomach, least of all that weed seed. So, pause before ordering a large delivery. The harvest might not be welcome.
It is possible to order from dealers in farm manure and composts, a mixture of mushroom compost and horse manure. In an ideal world this needs to be mixed together. Usually, the compost is clean and weed-free. You just need to put dollops of it around each and every shrub, rose and perennial in the garden. Ideally the manure should not be in
A special plant to fill a gap
by Sally Gregson
NOW, while the garden borders are quiet and seemingly asleep, is the perfect time to review the apparent gaps in the perennial planting. As gardeners, we know that what seems right now like a space between the shrubs, will soon be occupied by later, more fleeting annuals. And letting those spaces fill up with self-sown seedlings is charming and pretty, but maybe there’s room there for something a little special. It’s into these gaps that we could plant some of those special plants and the latest, springflowering epimediums are very special indeed.
Alas, we are all too familiar with the spreading clumps of the most commonly grown epimediums: E. versicolor’ Sulphureum’ and E. perralchicum but many more new varieties are now available from nurseries. Take a look at their websites.
One of the most immediately lovely, and yet very easy to
Home & Garden
direct contact with the growing plant, leaving a collar around each one.
Some plants dislike all that pampering. Many grasses, bearded irises and annual plants, are particularly fussy. They would prefer a dressing of grit to help keep water away from their crowns. But roses, flowering shrubs and perennials that like rich soil, respond especially well to a goodly dollop. In a mild winter, the application of manure can spur unseasonal growth, and that often encounters a cold, late frost.
So it’s a subtle game, but one that is well worth playing. In a dry summer your borders will suffer much less from drought, and in a wet one, the perennials will look exceptionally good.
grow, is E. ‘Black Sea’. It persists in poor-ish soil, without taking over the whole garden when your back is turned. In a cold winter it sports the most intense red leaves and has a strong will to live. It has small ‘insignificant flowers’ that reward closer inspection. Its bright winter leaves are a bonus at a dark time of year. Try growing it beneath some red-stemmed Cornus alba Sibirica for a shot of gleeful colour. These new hybrid epimediums are very happy to grow in our rich, alkaline soils and most of them are evergreen. But, some epimediums do prefer acid soils. If you have fallen for E. grandiflorum or its kin, try growing it in a terracotta pot of acid compost. These deciduous forms are mostly Japanese in origin. Their delicate, pretty flowers appear through the bare soil in spring accompanied by a translucent flush of new young leaves. E. grandiflorum ‘Purple
Prince’ is an especially beautiful colour that would be well worth all your care. And E.
grandiflorum ‘Bandit’ boasts bright white flowers and a black edge to its leaves. It will fill a 15cm terracotta pot of ericaceous compost to the brim and enchant all who see it.
Epidemium ‘Black Sea
Diamond butterfly brooch/ pendant, sold for 300% above highest estimate
Giving new life to antique jewellery
by Amy Brenan, director
Brooch/pendant sold for £2,800
DUKE’S first Silver, Jewellery, Watches & Currency auction of 2025 takes place on Wednesday and Thursday, March 19-20.
It already features pieces by iconic makers such as Cartier, Breitling, Rolex, Omega, Tudor and Patek Philippe, with the last entries now being invited.
The December sale concluded with great success. Brimming with timepieces exuding grace and craftmanship, diamonds of empyrean quality, and rare spirits and wines, once of epochal production, the final auction of the year ended in great spectacle, demonstrating the enduring appeal of luxury goods with magnificent results.
A highlight of the collection
was a diamond butterfly brooch/ pendant which sold for £2,800, a respectable 300% above highest estimate.
With so much history and craftmanship, it's no surprise these pieces command high prices at auction.
The last date for entries is Wednesday, February 19 –email enquiries@dukesauctions.com to consign.
For more information on the sale or to organise a free valuation for auction, visit Duke’s website, www.dukesauctions.com, alternatively phone its office on 01305 265080 to organise a confidential appointment with a specialist.
of Heirlooms Jewellers, 21 South Street, Wareham ANTIQUE jewellery is more than an accessory – it’s a piece of history that has been on an incredible journey.
Obviously, times, tastes and fashions change, so some pieces may no longer suit.
If you’ve inherited a piece of antique jewellery that you don’t wear, redesigning it offers a way to breathe new life into these treasures while respecting their original craftsmanship.
When I am approached to repurpose a piece of antique jewellery, I need to understand its heritage.
I always examine the piece for unique design elements, such as intricate filigree, hand-cut gemstones or eraspecific motifs.
Researching its origins and techniques ensures that any redesign complements rather than overwrites its character.
It is so important to retain the integrity of the piece while updating it for modern use.
For example, a Victorian brooch could be transformed
into a pendant or a pair of earrings, preserving its detailed engraving.
A high set ring which may contain several gemstones but is not practical to wear could be redesigned into another ring with a pair of earrings. The combinations are endless.
Sustainability is another key benefit of redesigning antique jewellery.
By repurposing rather than buying new, you reduce waste and preserve the artisanal quality that mass production often lacks.
I always say that antique jewellery is the ultimate in being environmentally aware!
The beautiful thing about redesigning antique jewellery is that you can be quite innovative in its design while preserving its history.
You are, in fact, creating a timeless piece that resonates with today’s style and keeps the story alive for future generations.
Most importantly, you can continue wearing stunning pieces of jewellery that need to be worn.
An Art Deco inspired ring designed and handmade by Heirlooms using a blue topaz from the client’s existing ring and diamonds from her 21st birthday ring
Aidan a new face at town’s museum
by editor@dorsetbiznews.
co.uk
THE Museum of East Dorset in Wimborne has appointed a new events and programming officer.
Aidan Hill, 24, from Corfe Mullen, joins the awardwinning museum after working as an ‘errand boy’ during his summer holidays.
Aidan, who has a degree in Philosophy, Politics and Economics from the University of Winchester, as well as a master’s degree in History, spent his summer working at the museum.
He said: “I helped on the
Craft and Lunch activities offered to children eligible for free school meals. These sessions allowed children to have fun through craft and get a nutritious meal throughout their holidays. I loved it and knew I wanted to eventually work here full time.”
In his new role Aidan is responsible for organising numerous events and activities for museum visitors, designed to give added value to the museum experience.
He said: “My predecessor was in this job a long time, so I have big shoes to fill. My aim is
Newly merged college names new leader
by editor@dorsetbiznews. co.uk
KATE Wills has stepped up as principal and chief executive of Weymouth and Kingston Maurward College following a successful tenure as interim principal since August.
Her appointment follows the merger last year of Weymouth College and Kingston Maurward College, with the combined institution now offering a breadth of A-levels, vocational qualifications and apprenticeships – as well as land-based studies.
Kate brings over two decades of experience in further and higher education to the role, including a stint as group deputy principal at The Cornwall College Group.
There, she oversaw 10 campuses and led efforts in curriculum design, quality improvement and stakeholder engagement.
Kate has also championed initiatives to align education with regional economic needs, supporting local industries and skills demands.
“It’s an honour to lead
Kate Wills of Weymouth and Kingston Maurward College
Weymouth and Kingston Maurward College at this exciting time,” she said.
“Together, we’re building a truly ambitious organisation that not only provides the skills and qualifications our students need, but also fosters their confidence and ambition to succeed in life and work.
“By strengthening our partnerships with local businesses and ensuring our curriculum reflects the needs of employers, we’re empowering our students to make a real difference in their chosen fields.
to live up to their legacy and continue to deliver high-quality events for our museum visitors of all ages and abilities.
“One of our key areas is improving our activities for visitors with special educational needs and accessibility issues.”
He added: “Our founder,
Hilda Cole, was such a visionary and always wanted her museum to be a place of interaction, engagement and interest, so I will endeavour to create activities that are a lot of fun as well as educational and that Hilda would be proud of.”
Call Pete on: 01929 421989 or 07900 992110
Email: info@whizzbits.co.uk
www.whizzbits.co.uk
“I’m looking forward to working with our dedicated staff, students and stakeholders to achieve even greater success.”
JUST THE JOB
Aidan Hill, 24, from Corfe Mullen, is working at the Museum of East Dorset in Wimborne
Health & Wellbeing
New confidence in the New Year
by Emma Holmes
HAVE you ever found yourself thinking, I wish I had some more confidence at work or with friends? The good news is that confidence can be improved. Being confident applies to different areas of your life. You can be confident socially but not at work, or confident in new situations or confident at a hobby. No-one is likely to feel confident in all areas of their life, although that may appear to be the case for some people. If you would like to feel
by Fiona Chapman
THIS time of year can be extremely hard for many people, particularly those who have lost someone they love, even worse if it was close to Christmas. The nights draw in, there is less sun around, the daylight hours are short, and the holiday season is a time for family and loved ones, all of which make it difficult to be positive and strong.
They say time heals. It will never actually heal the wound that losing someone makes or stop the ag-onising, gut wrenching pain that can take you by surprise, but time does teach you how to deal with it and how to distract yourself.
more confident in an area of your life, why not try these simple suggestions to see if you can increase your confidence: Awareness of strengths NOTICE what strengths you already have in that skill or experience and list them. There may be more than you think, especially as our brains tend to focus on what we can’t do rather than what we can. Doing this helps to reinforce your positive self-perception. Goal setting to improve IF there is an area to work on,
Everyone processes grief differently, some people want to talk, some are silent – in the UK we are sadly rather restricted in being British and keeping a lid on our emotions, to the ‘stiff upper lip’. I think sometimes if we could wail and beat our breasts it might do us all a lot more good.
I use Bach Flowers for grief, which includes Star of Bethlehem – aptly named for this time of year. Edward Bach said: “For those in great distress under conditions which for a time produce great unhappiness. The shock of serious news, the loss of someone dear, the fright of an accident…For
DORSET FOOT CLINIC
make it a goal and work back from that goal listing what you need to do to achieve it. For example, I want to be able to deliver a speech to a room of 100 people. To do this I will build up from first delivering it to myself, then to a small group, then to a larger group. By making small steps towards a goal, you can build momentum and feel progression, which increases your confidence. Visualising success IMAGINE yourself as the confident you, navigating the skill or experience in the way you want to. Take some time to focus on the details of the confident you and consider: What do you do differently, how does it feel? Visualising helps to reinforce your belief in your
those who refuse to be consoled, this remedy brings comfort”.
If anyone who has taken rescue remedy, this is one of the main ingredients and it is used for those who are numb or mentally paralysed.
Another lovely remedy is Sweet Chestnut, for inconsolable desolation when “anguish is so great as to seem unbearable.”
Mustard – flower – is for those for whom gloom descends and there is no joy to life anymore and they cannot hide this feeling.
These remedies can all be bought at a good health food shop and two drops can be put under the tongue three or four
ability.
Feeling like you are worthy and valuable is different to confidence, an overarching belief that who you are is good enough refers to our self-worth and self-esteem. This can take time to work on and can be explored in more depth in therapy or coaching.
n Emma Holmes is a counsellor at Calm Seas Therapy and is based in Poole. She works online and in person (elholmes. counselling@gmail.com, phone: 07442 662287). She is also co-founder of Dorset Employee Wellness Support (DEWS) which supports businesses by providing counselling and wellness services. For more information, email DorsetEWS@proton.me.
times a day or in water and then drunk throughout the day. It is amazing how they can work – you just find yourself feeling a bit better, more positive or calmer. Take them long term and they can gently bring out old trauma which is sometimes lodged in your body as a physical illness or pain. We do all need to remember that what affects our minds, also affects our body.
So, for anyone feeling sad or lost, you have my deepest sympathy and give the Bach Flowers a go.
n Fiona Chapman is a naturopathic herbalist (email Pellyfiona@gmail.com).
Beg inner-Friendly Yoga C
Beginner-Friendly
Starting 6 Februar y The Focus Centre, 107 Hig h Swanage
Yoga Class
Starting 6 February
The Focus Centre, 107 High St, Swanage
Ever y Thursday at 10 am £8 drop-in
Every Thursday at 10am £8 drop-in
Improve your flexibili ty,
Improve your flexibility, balance, stamina, and confidence in a friendly, welcoming environment.
07932 180327 yogawithsemra@gmail.com
Health & Wellbeing
Meditations in nature: New Year contemplations
by Susanna Curtin
I AM on a New Year pilgrimage today to my special place on Dartmoor. It is just a typical granite outcrop on the Southern moorland, but it has called me to its summit for the last 30 years. There is something about this place that speaks to me, as though it knows me and my life story. From these stony heights, I have laughed and cried and have spent many happy days playing and picnicking with loved ones. Unlike so many of the places I like to visit, the landscape here never changes. Although my circumstances, and I, change from time to time, this place is constant. I find it conciliating and a pertinent reminder that the land itself outlives us all.
As I clamber up the gnarly, lichen-covered granite, I find the same hollowed out ‘seat’ –weathered by the pools of water and ice that have settled here. In one direction, I can see the sunlight over the ocean, and from the other, the moorland rolls out to the north uninterrupted by neither buildings nor people. Being here affords me a bigger perspective from which to contemplate not only the year ahead, but also the intricate wonders of the world around us.
Closing my eyes, just for a second, I pause to consider the forces of nature that are around me. At 55 degrees north, the Earth is spinning around its axis at nearly 700mph. At the same time, the Earth is orbiting the sun at 67,000mph, and then there is the inestimable speed of travel of our galaxy towards the edge of infinity. Yet, all the time, gravity and the law of relativity keeps us still.
Beneath my hands is solid granite, a volcanic igneous rock that formed from the magma deep within the Earth. Even this is comprised of closely knit molecules that are moving and vibrating but are similarly undetectable by us. I then look up at the skies above me into the endless blue, and then down into the little green world of lichens and moss forests that adorn the tiny
crevices on the rockface. Everywhere from the macro to the micro, nature is awe inspiring. I wonder why, then, the human race is so hell bent on its destruction.
I know that there are many great conservation projects taking place around the world to protect land from development in order to safeguard the biodiversity and ecosystems that rely on it. But, sadly, protecting our environment is currently not high on the political agenda in England and we are seeing so many of our farm fields and green spaces around our villages and towns being transformed into large, unaffordable housing estates without any social and economic infrastructure to support them. It is feasible to think that one day, even places like Dartmoor will eventually be conquered by developers and wilderness like this will become harder to find.
Aldo Leopold was an American naturalist and philosopher who was born in the late 1800s. He is most famous for the essay he wrote called The Land Ethic published in a Sand County Almanac in 1949. His land ethic enlarged the boundaries of ‘a community’
to include the soils, water, plants and animals that also lived there – thus changing the role of humans from being a conqueror of the land to being a member and citizen of an entire biotic community. This philosophy extends ethical consideration to ecological processes to preserve the integrity, stability and beauty of a place.
While working in Kamloops in Canada, I met a First Nation spokesman from the Secwepemc people. While discussing the history of his tribe and Western principles of land ownership, he said to me: “Look at this land, how can we ever own it? Surely the land owns us? It has grown us up, and was here before us, and will still be here long after we have gone. If anything, we are mere caretakers and custodians of it as are all the animals, plants and life that share it.” I have always liked this philosophical position. Sat on my granite throne looking out at the weathered ridges and tors of the moor, I imagine the geological turmoil 280 million years ago when a volcanic eruption deep in the Earth’s core caused a giant dome or batholith of granite to intrude into the carboniferous shales and sandstones of the land that is now Devon and Cornwall. Time and weather have since shaped it. Yet even here, man has altered it, felling the forests that would have covered its peaks and valleys, making way for cattle and settlements. Sadly, I wonder if there is anywhere on these Isles of ours that are still true wilderness. This is my challenge for 2025. n Dr Susie Curtin (email curtin. susanna@gmail.com)
Dr Susie Curtin has been visiting her special place on Dartmoor
Food & Drink
Warming soups for Veganuary
FOOD-CONSCIOUS
individuals taking part in Veganuary should not forget it is important to compensate for the nutrients typically obtained from meat.
Iron is a prime example, and iron is why watercress can play a role in any vegan’s or vegetarian’s life.
Watercress contains more than 50 vitamins and minerals, and boasts more calcium than milk, more Vitamin C than an orange, more folate than a banana and more Vitamin E than broccoli.
But crucially for vegetarians and vegans, it is also high in Vitamin A and rich in iron.
For plant iron to be absorbed, vitamins C and A are required to convert it into a more easily absorbable form such as haem iron, as found in meat.
Not all vegetables that contain iron have as high levels of Vitamins A and C as watercress, and so the iron is not as readily available in some green vegetables as in watercress.
Watercress is also a rich source of fibre and antioxidants, both vital for gut health, which in turn is linked to immunity and mental health.
January is classic soup weather and this range of warming soups is packed full of watercress and other healthy vegetables.
Watercress, leek and parsnip soup (vegan)
Hartland Stud, Soldiers Road BH20 5DU Wareham
Serves 4
Prep time 10 mins/cooking time
25 mins
Ingredients
80g watercress, roughly chopped
2 leeks (about 300g), sliced
2 parsnips (about 200g), peeled and sliced
Salt and pepper
Croutons
Method
1 Bring a 1-litre pot of water to a boil and add the parsnips, cook for 5-10 minutes until beginning to soften, then add the leeks.
2 Simmer until both leeks and parsnips are cooked, about 10 minutes. Take the pot off the heat, add the watercress and allow to wilt slightly, then strain the vegetables from the liquid keeping it to one side to add back into the soup.
3 Using either a handheld blender or food processor, blitz the vegetables adding a little of the cooking water in between to thin the mixture out until you reach your desired consistency.
4 Serve with croutons or warm crusty bread.
One pot vegan Thai green noodle soup with watercress
Serves 2
Prep time 15 mins/cooking time
20 mins
Ingredients
Thumb-sized piece of ginger, finely sliced or grated
2 portions of your favourite noodles
50g watercress, roughly chopped
Thai green curry paste
1 sweet potato (about 250g),
diced small
200ml coconut milk
200ml water
Coriander
Lime
Cashews
Lemongrass
Vegetable oil
Method
1 In a large pot, heat a small amount of oil and cook the sweet potato until almost soft. Then, add the ginger and cook until it becomes fragrant.
2 Add a little more oil to the pan if needed before adding the Thai green curry paste. Stir to coat the sweet potato in the paste, then add the coconut milk and water. Bring to a boil then allow to simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sweet potato is cooked through and the soup has thickened a little. More water can be added if you want.
3 Add your chosen noodles to the pot and once cooked, add the watercress. Cook for 30-60 seconds more, so the watercress softens slightly, then serve.
4 Sprinkle fresh coriander over the top and a squirt of fresh lime juice.
Watercress, carrot and turmeric soup (vegan)
Serves 4
Prep time 15 mins/cooking time
20 mins
Ingredients
1 x 85g watercress
2 tbsp rapeseed oil or vegetable oil
1 large onion, diced
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger
1 teaspoon grated fresh turmeric (or use 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric)
3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
1 litre hot vegetable stock
Salt and pepper
To serve (optional)
Small handful pumpkin seeds,
toasted
50ml dairy free yoghurt alternative
4 pitta breads
Method
1 Take a large saucepan and place it over a medium-high heat. Add in the oil then throw in the diced onions and chopped carrots along with a good pinch of salt. Fry for 8-10 minutes, or until the onions are slightly coloured and soft and the carrots have begun to cook on the outside. Add in the garlic, ginger and turmeric and fry for a further 1-2 minutes.
2 Pour in the hot stock and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Once the liquid is boiling, turn down the heat to low – ensuring the soup continues to simmer – and place a lid on top. Leave to cook for around 20 minutes, or until the carrots are soft and cooked through.
3 Once the vegetables are cooked through, add in the watercress and cook for 30 seconds. Remove the soup from the heat and use a ladle or small jug to tip it into the bowl of a food processor or blender. Blend thoroughly. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your blender. Do not to over fill!
4 Once the soup is blended thoroughly tip it back into the saucepan. Taste and add more salt and black pepper to taste. Finally serve into bowls and finish with the pumpkin seeds and yoghurt along with some toasted pitta breads
Watercress, leek and parsnip soup (vegan)
Field & Stream
Green belt, housing and the water companies…
“Don't it always seem to go That you don't know what you got 'til it's gone They paved paradise and put up a parking lot”
Joni Mitchell – Big Yellow Taxi
by AJ Selby
OUR countryside is a wonderful place to go for a walk, watch wildlife, take in a view or just breathe in fresh air. I like to write about my experiences both past and present in exploring, watching and learning on my rambles across the broad acres of this green and present land. Sometimes, however, a story appears about the damage being done to our countryside by people who, frankly, give the impression that they care not one jot. One news story has emerged at the end of 2024 and another is ongoing, but both are inextricably linked. The first, and the one that has outraged many people, is the plan by Angela Rayner to build some of the Government’s 1.5 million target houses on green belt and her promise to overturn any objections.
The concept of green belt was initially developed for London in 1938 as a precursor to the 1947 Town and Country Planning Act, which enabled local authorities to designate an area close to a town or city to restrict urban sprawl, maintain
natural heritage and prevent loss of farmland. Some 12.4% of land in England is green belt and protects not only agricultural land but also rivers, forests, wetlands and even coastal margins.
Our population continues to grow at an alarming rate and housing is, of course, needed, but is population growth something that can be addressed? If we build, then every effort needs to be made to use brownfield sites and look at options for empty properties over shops and businesses. Once farmland is built over, it is lost forever.
My second concern is linked to the first. How are we ever going to deal with all the water and sewage from an extra 1.5 million homes? All our water companies are behaving in an appalling manner towards the environment and the customer. Pleas for a big increase in bills are hard to swallow when their behaviour since privatisation in 1991 has been nothing short of scandalous.
The Financial Times has investigated the water companies and in 32 years to 2023 they paid out a huge £78 billion in shareholder dividends. They invested £190 billion in infrastructure in the same period but managed to chalk up £64 billion in debt, despite all
Once farmland is built over, it is lost forever, says AJ Selby
existing debts being wiped at privatisation.
Pollution figures are also shocking with companies paying out an average of £377 dividends for each hour they polluted. In 2022/23 shareholders were paid more than £1.35 billion in dividends and they simultaneously released sewage for over 3.5 million hours in the same period. They have now applied for a 36% increase in customer bills on average over the next five years.
But David Hall, visiting professor at the Public Services International Research Unit at the University of Greenwich, claims that water companies have invested ‘less than nothing of their own money’ and are ‘treating their customers like a cash cow’. “They put the prices up because they can and they get more money out of the customers, and then they pass it on to the shareholders because the business they are in is providing a good return to their shareholders. That’s why the companies do what they do, and we shouldn’t expect anything different.”
From the loss of clean wildlife habitats and its inhabitants to dangers for river and sea swimmers, the pollution continues at an alarming rate irrespective of rainfall, and
there is no sign of it slowing down. How are we ever going to reconcile more houses and more pollution without addressing this huge problem?
Re-nationalise? Possibly, but the Government seems to have a minus amount of money at present –the Government says it will cost £100 billion, Moody’s says it will be £14.5 billion. Stop directors’ bonuses and prosecute harder? That may make a dent in the problem and make the water companies sit up and take notice. I don’t have a solution because it isn’t a quick fix but surely we can’t carry on like this.
Exhale! And finish on a lighter note. January. The deadest month and often the coldest. However, get out and about and there is lots to see from birds to mammals to mosses and lichens. I love those halcyon days when the air is still with some cloud cover and the senses are heightened precisely because there is so little to view. Patience rewards the watcher and many birds are easier to spot in the leafless trees and hedgerows.
My favourite bird, the long-tailed tit, can often be seen in large groups working their way down a hedge-line paying the observer no heed. The reduced daylight hours mean that every second counts for finding food and birds are preoccupied in this task. At the turn of the year the world seems dead but by the end of the month there will be signs, almost imperceptible signs, that the countryside is changing, along with a few minutes of extra daylight each day.
If you are new to nature watching, now is the time to follow the start of the slow but inevitable run towards spring. Take a photo at the same spot every month and see the changes. Make a note of the first appearance of flowers and migrant birds and your knowledge and enjoyment will be wonderfully enhanced.
Arts & Entertainment
RAUCOUS musical comedy promises to leave the audience in Studland all shook up when Elvis in Blue Hawaii comes to Dorset.
Elvis impersonator Joe Reeve stars in his version of the classic Elvis film Blue Hawaii, while his long-time tour manager, the inimitable Josephine Cunningham, keeps the show on the road.
All-singing, all-dancing string quartet Musical comedy with ‘Elvis’ at the village hall
The show is presented by the Spitz & Co theatre company, which has had previous sell-out tours of Gloriator, Gloria in The Mist and Les Gloriablès, with Dorset touring arts charity Artsreach.
Artsreach director, Kerry Bartlett, said: “Spitz & Co have built a reputation for creating funny, original shows, and our audiences have loved each of their previous tours.
“I still remember the laughter in Winfrith following some of the most unbelievable and unexpected comedy moments in Les Gloriablès!”.
Elvis in Blue Hawaii is at the village halls in Studland on Wednesday, February 5; East Stour on Friday, February 7; and Wootton Fitzpaine on Sunday, February 9, all at 7.30pm.
Tickets and information about the show, recommended for ages eight-plus, are available online at www.artsreach.co.uk.
BOWJANGLES, billed as an irreverent, anarchic ensemble who bring live music, theatre and comedy together, are set to perform at Lytchett Matravers on a visit to Dorset.
They can really play – they dance while they play, they sing while they play, and they leap, tumble, juggle and joke while they play!
2025 will see them celebrate 16 years of touring by bringing
back all their best bits, from 2008 to the present day. Bowjangles are performing with Dorset rural arts charity Artsreach at Litton Cheney Community Hall on Thursday, January 23; and the village halls at Lytchett Matravers on Friday, January 24; and Marnhull on Saturday, January 25.
Tickets and further information are available online at www.artsreach.co.uk.
Lighthouse’s new music man
LIGHTHOUSE Poole has appointed John Blakeley, who grew up near Swanage, as music programmer, working as part of the Programming team.
John started his career in Bristol promoting gigs at venues including Thekla, The Canteen and The Wardrobe Theatre before establishing his own concert promotions company, Ear Trumpet Music.
He also programmed Valley Fest, an annual 15,000 capacity-music and food festival in north east Somerset.
“It’s a real honour to be
programming for a well-loved venue with such a rich history of amazing artists that have appeared on its stages,” said John.
“I grew up in Dorset, near Swanage, and the first ‘big’ gigs I went to were bands like Thunder at Poole Arts Centre, as Lighthouse was known then.
“But it was playing in local bands that I realised the best way to get gigs with the artists we wanted to play with was to put them on ourselves.
“That carried on after we moved to Bristol, which
obviously has a very wellestablished identity and an enthusiastic audience for live music.”
Having programmed across a range of venues and musical genres, John knows it is important to bal-ance the commercial imperative with the desire to curate a programme that fits well with existing audiences and attracts new ones.
He said: “I feel Poole may have a cultural advantage over some of our south coast neighbours in that, unlike
Southampton, Portsmouth or Brighton, audiences are not so likely to go to London to see acts and we’re far enough away from Bristol or Plymouth to fall outside exclusivity agreements.
“So, I think with the work that has already been done at Lighthouse in attracting artists like Paul Weller and Noel Gallagher this year, we are in a position to attract some of those major tours next year.
“It’s a long game, though, and we probably won’t see the results until next autumn.”
Bowjangles are set to visit Lytchett Matravers
Elvis in Blue Hawaii is at Studland Village Hall
Big screen adventures
THRILLING adventure on the big screen is promised when the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour visits Dorset.
Two new collections of short films packed with extreme expeditions, intrepid characters and stunning cinematography will be screened.
Among the films are A Team Sport in which ultra-runner Courtney Dauwalter tests the limits of body and mind by
tackling three iconic 100-mile races back-to-back in one summer.
Of A Lifetime follows three extreme skiers and snowboarders as they sail across the notorious Drake Passage to ride the unimaginably steep, icy lines of Antarctica.
Tour director, Nell Teasdale, said: “Buckle up for a night of nail-biting adventure – from the comfort of a cinema seat!
“Join the world’s top outdoor filmmakers and adventurers as they climb, ski, paddle, run and ride through the wildest corners of the planet.
“Plus, we guarantee you’ll leave inspired to have an adventure of your own.”
Films will be screened at the Regent Centre in Christchurch on February 5 and May 1, the Tivoli Theatre in Wimborne on February 6 and
Swing thing in free concert
SWING Unlimited Big Band will feature in Jazz at the Allendale, a free concert organised by Wimborne Rotary Club, at Wimborne’s Allendale Community Centre.
The 17-piece big band will present a varied programme including swing, jazz and contemporary music, from the
golden age of swing through to the present day.
A retiring collection will benefit Dorset Rural Music
School, Youth Music Wessex and other Rotary-supported charities.
Wimborne Rotary president, Sue Young, said: “Wimborne Rotary is pleased to once again present this annual charitable concert, the proceeds from which will support two very worthwhile and local music-
Poole Lighthouse on March 28-29.
Each event will also feature a free prize draw for outdoors goods from the tour’s partners.
Banff tour films are chosen from about 500 international entries into the Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival, held every November in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. For more information and to book tickets, visit www. banff-uk.com.
related charities and other charities Rotary supports.
“This concert always attracts a large and appreciative audience, and we look forward to welcoming them and are confident they will have an enjoyable evening.”
The concert is on Monday, February 3, at 7.30pm – doors open at 7pm. Admission is free with tickets only available on the door.
Saturday night is jazz night
THE Mowlem in Swanage is set to host a monthly line-up of jazz musicians in The Studio, presented by SoundCellar in partnership with Swanage Jazz Festival.
SoundCellar has 15 years’ experience hosting internationally acclaimed
musicians and rising stars from its base in Poole.
Founder, Rob Palmer, said: “This concert series aims to create a wonderful musical experience for locals and visitors alike, offering a mix of jazz and world music in a unique and intimate venue.
“Whether you're a jazz enthusiast or someone who enjoys diverse world music, this series promises to deliver something special for all.”
The concert series gets under way with Thokozile on Saturday, January 25, and continues with the Véronique
Joly Bossa Nova Trio on Saturday, February 22, and Iain Ballamy (saxophone) and Gareth Williams (piano) on Saturday, March 8, all at 7.30pm.
Tickets are £14 plus booking fee and more dates are to be announced.
The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour is visiting Christchurch, Wimborne and Poole over the next few weeks
PHOTO: Jerome Tanon
Spotlight Diary
Diary entries are £6 plus VAT per entry. The deadline for the February 3 issue is NOON on Friday 23rd, January 24. Call on 01963 400186 or email adverts@blackmorevale.net. Please call prior to attending events listed to ensure they are still on.
TUESDAY
19.30 COME & SING WITH SWANAGE CHOIR the Belvedere Singers this spring. We rehearse every Tuesday from 7.30-9.30pm and start our new season on Tuesday 7th January at Emmanuel Baptist Church, 160 Victoria Avenue, Swanage BH19 1AZ. Come and try us out for two weeks on any Tuesday from 7th January onwards. There’s no obligation to join after the free trials. Also...there are no auditions and there’s ample parking at the church! Contact Linda McMorrow on 07943 442919 for more information or check out our website www.belvederesingers.org.uk
