Purbeck Gazette Issue 289

What’s inside this issue...

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EDITORIAL

Paul Jones Editor-in-chief

WE love hearing your news and views. Get in touch with us by emailing ed@purbeckgazette.co.uk

Lloyd Armishaw Publisher ed@purbeckgazette.co.uk 01963 400186

About the Purbeck Gazette

The Purbeck Gazette prints every fortnight and delivers throughout the region from Swanage to Dorchester, Lulworth to Bere Regis. The Purbeck Gazette is published by The Blackmore Vale Ltd. All editing, graphic design and lay-up is completed in-house by The Blackmore Vale Ltd. The Purbeck Gazette is printed by Blackmore Ltd of Shaftesbury. The Purbeck Gazette website is managed and edited by The Blackmore Vale Ltd. Blackmore Vale Ltd also publishes The Purbeck Guidette, the Purbeck Visitor Guide. All rights reserved. All layouts copyright Blackmore Vale Ltd. No reproduction without permission.

OUR TEAM: The Gazette team consists of: Lloyd Armishaw, Debi Thorne, Donna Garner, Jane Toomer and Paul Jones.

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The legal stuff... Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in this magazine, but the editor is unable to accept responsibility for any omissions or errors that may occur. The inclusion of any article or advertisement does not constitute any form of accreditation or approval by the editor.

No part, written or visual, of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the editor.

Corfe Castle speedway rider Charlie feels the need for speed! Page 4

Appeal after boy bitten by dog in Swanage pub garden: Page 9

Marathon man Ryan does it for the birds!

LONDON Marathon runner Ryan Martin, from Ridge, is grateful for the superb support he received pounding the capital’s streets in aid of a good cause.

Ryan, who ran to raise funds and awareness of the Birds of Poole Harbour (BoPH) charity dressed in an eagle costume, said: “Throughout the route the public support was phenomenal and certainly was the reason I was able to hold on through the

26 miles.

“Every time I flapped my wings, the crowds cheered louder!”

Architect Ryan, 46, aimed to complete the run in 4 hours 30 minutes and clocked 4.30.22.

He is not a regular runner, preferring to keep fit by cycling, and found training for the marathon slow and at times painful on his own.

Ryan previously attempted the London event 12 years ago

but had to walk around the course because of an injury. He said he is aiming for another marathon next year –‘perhaps with bigger wings!’ BoPH aims to boost the profile of bird conservation and education in and around Poole Harbour.

Compiled by National Coastwatch Institution, Swanage

Solar & Tidal Predictions - May '23

Solar & Tidal Predictions - Mar '23

members of the public engage with their local natural environment, highlighting the need to protect and conserve our sensitive wildlife and environment.”

Ryan said: “Its continuing efforts have helped countless

Ryan has so far raised £2,000 and anyone who would like to contribute to his fundraising can still do so at www.justgiving. com/fundraising/ryan-martin25

Solar & Tidal Predictions - Jan '23

Solar and Tidal Predictions - Feb'23

Solar & Tidal Predictions May 2023

Peveril Ledge, Swanage

Ryan Martin, from Ridge, ran the marathon dressed as an eagle

Ryan Martin made the headlines in his costume

Charlie feels the need for speed

Teenager in speedway British Youth Championships

SPEEDWAY is in the blood for Corfe Castle youngster Charlie Southwick, who has his sights set on the top of the sport.

Charlie, 13, has been watching local team Poole Pirates with his grandad Malcolm Ayre – a mascot for Harringay Racers years ago and a lifelong speedway enthusiast – from the age of five.

Mum Natalie said: “Charlie started asking if he could ride aged seven but finding a local club for him was difficult as Weymouth Wildcats had folded and Poole Pirates don’t have a training school.

“But under the guidance of Barry Bishop at My First Skid Speedway School (MFS) in Ryde on the Isle of Wight Charlie hired and rode a PW50cc.

“But that was only during school holidays as being so young, late nights and school next day would have been too much.”

The Covid-19 pandemic put paid to travel for some time but in March last year Charlie began watching riders on YouTube and decided he wanted to pursue the sport again.

He had his grandad’s old race suit, boots, steel shoe and crash helmet, and set out on monthly trips across the Solent to MFS where he could hire a 125cc bike.

Natalie added: “Fuel, ferry crossings, bike hire and practice wasn’t cheap, and with Charlie desperate for his own bike the pressure was on. But we knew he had something – he was natural on a bike, fearless and

aspired to be better.”

She found a bike builder, Rob Racing, in Folkestone, and Charlie set about designing his dream machine on computer. He also wrote letters to prospective sponsors but nearly all did not reply.

However, Morrish Homes, Poole Pirates’ main sponsor last year, did respond and invited the family as guests to the club’s Wimborne Road stadium – and at the end of the season gave Charlie a donation towards a bike.

He also had a generous anonymous donation, then with help from grandad and the rest of the family the bike building began with a Daytona 150cc engine. Just before Christmas the family drove in grandad’s van to Folkestone to collect the bike made from new and

secondhand parts.

Red Funnel Ferries offered sponsorship, which came in handy as Charlie had the opportunity to practice twice a month, and the company is now his biggest sponsor providing every journey he makes.

Charlie is still under the watchful eye of Barry Bishop and this year will be a part of the race season on the island at Smallbrook Stadium for the Isle of Wight Warriors team.

Charlie is also entered in the British Youth Championship 2023 Young Lions in the 150cc class starting this month at Belle Vue in Manchester and Glasgow, followed by eight meetings at tracks across the country over the summer.

He has managed to get in some extra practice on tracks in Scunthorpe in Lincolnshire and

Natalie takes care of kit, travel, dealing with emails and social media, and the allimportant filming while Charlie is on track, so he can check his technique. Dad Scott is mechanic and Charlie edits his own videos for YouTube –CSpeedway44 – and Instagram CSouthwick 44.

Practice days are long and The Purbeck School, which Charlie attends, has been very supportive. A typical practice day involves a 1.30pm pick up, driving to Southampton for the 3pm crossing and arriving at the track at 4.30pm to get set up. After a 6pm safety briefing, it’s track time until 9.15pm then the 10.30pm crossing back to Southampton to arrive home at 12.45am, then school next day.

Natalie added: “Charlie is ready for the season ahead but is still wearing grandad’s race suit, which has been repaired more than a few times, and his race boots have a hole in the sole! Everything is expensive –boots £170, race suit £500.

“We are appealing for sponsors to help Charlie continue. Any support would be amazing – every little bit will help and he would be so grateful.

“If businesses would like to sponsor, their logo can be on the bike covers or on a new race suit when he is able to raise enough money.

“We’d be grateful for any support to keep the kid from Purbeck heading towards his goal!”

For more information contact charliesouthwickracing@gmail. com – and for a link to a JustGiving Page email the same address.

Charlie hopes to be able to have some track time soon at Poole Pirates and be a mascot.

Kent.

Charlie Southwick, 13, in action and above, is looking for sponsors

The home of Country House opera in South West England featuring renowned soloists and full orchestra

Fire station needs you!

FROM Walford to Wareham – a campaign to recruit on-call firefighters in Dorset has received backing from the Queen Vic.

Shane Richie, famous for portraying Alfie Moon in the BBC soap opera Eastenders, features in a video calling for people to apply for the role at Wareham Fire Station.

“I’m appealing to your good nature, because Wareham Fire Station needs your help,” the 59-year-old star says.

“They need more on-call firefighters. [It’s] a wonderful opportunity to help your community, get paid and learn new skills.”

The Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service says on-call firefighters are ‘paid professionals, who do the same work as their whole-time colleagues’.

“Unlike whole-time firefighters, they are not based at the fire station but have other jobs and commitments, responding to emergencies only when their alerter goes off,” a spokesperson said.

On-call firefighters are usually contracted for between 40 and 120 hours of cover a

week.

“Between them, each fire station team will provide cover for weekdays, evenings, nights and weekends,” the spokesperson said.

“Around two-thirds of the firefighters in Dorset and Wiltshire work on an on-call basis, making them hugely important to both the Service and the communities they serve.

“Of our 50 stations, the majority are crewed only by on-call firefighters and on-call staff work alongside their whole-time colleagues at many of our other stations.”

For more information on becoming an on-call firefighter, and how to apply, log on to www.dwfire.org.uk/workingfor-us/on-call-firefighters.

LESCAUT

25, 28, 30 July at 19:00 | Matinée 27 July at 14:00

Sung in Italian with English surtitles

26, 27, 29 July at 19:00 | Matinée 30 July at 14:00

Sung in English with surtitles

Actor Shane Richie features in a video aimed at attracting recruits

Wareham Fire Station is seeking on-call firefighters

PHOTO: Google

Giacomo Puccini MANON

Lawyers question proposals to reform gambling

LAWYERS in Swanage who have recovered more than £5 million from betting companies for problem gamblers fear newly proposed industry reforms may not go far enough.

Ellis Jones Solicitors has raised questions about how the shake-up of gambling announced in a long-awaited government white paper will work in practice.

The Department for Culture, Media & Sport has announced a consultation into gambling laws, with the aim of measures coming into force by summer 2024.

Ellis Jones will be lodging its comments about the reforms after studying the white paper in detail.

Partner Paul Kanolik said: “This white paper has been a long time coming.

“While some measures are welcome, it is important that the final provisions of the new legislation go far enough to protect vulnerable people and have a meaningful impact.

“For example, while the white paper indicates a welcome move towards greater protection for vulnerable individuals, through tighter and more prescriptive regulation, there is still uncertainty about what the proposed measures will actually

look like in practice and when they will be implemented.

“The proposed introduction of a gambling ombudsman should also bring about increased accountability for operators, but it is important that any such body is truly impartial and has the necessary expertise and resources to adjudicate effectively.”

Paul added: “This is the first major reform of gambling in nearly 20 years, during which time the industry, technology and habits have changed enormously, especially with the development of mobile technology. It is important that the proposals do not get watered down and that the new legislation has teeth in order to be fit for purpose.”

The white paper was published following a lengthy review into gambling laws and the gambling industry. It was first announced in 2020 following concerns about the increasing obsolescence of the 2005 Gambling Act.

Proposed measures in the white paper include:

n New obligations for operators to complete checks

n A cross-operator harm prevention system

n Measures to reduce the risk from online slot machine style games

n Changes to targeted marketing and rewards

n More powers for Gambling Commission

n Statutory levy for gambling operators

n A new gambling ombudsman

Ellis Jones’ betting disputes team specialises in dealing with gambling claims and complaints to recover money clients have lost as a result of the failings of betting operators.

It has successfully recovered more than £5 million for clients in the last few years and is continuing to pursue court claims and complaints on behalf of clients.

In a landmark case in 2019 the firm reclaimed more than £100,000 for a client from a high street bookmaker who had failed to protect him as a vulnerable gambler.

Paul added: “We would recommend that anyone who may be suffering from gambling-related harm seeks appropriate help and support. This may involve approaching relevant medical professionals or support organisations, as well as implementing some of the various tools available to reduce such harm.”

Police appeal on stolen vehicles

A CAR and a van were stolen during a burglary in Piddlehinton.

The thefts occurred some time between 6pm on Wednesday, April 12, and 9.30am the following morning from the Enterprise Park. A black Ford Focus and a white Vauxhall van were stolen but later recovered, according to police. The van was found on a farm in the area and the Ford was found in Holmead Walk, Puddletown.

PC Sebastian Haggett, of the Dorset Police Rural Crime Team, said: “I am

appealing for anyone who saw suspicious activity in Piddlehinton around the relevant time to please come forward. Also, I would ask the community to please check their CCTV or dashcam footage for anything that may assist my investigation.”

Anyone with information should contact Dorset Police via www.dorset. police.uk or on 101, quoting incident number 55230056326. They can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

FAIR DEAL Partner Paul Kanolik and senior associate solicitor Henrietta Drew from Ellis Jones Solicitors’ betting disputes team

THE BBC’s Springwatch 2023 will be based in Dorset, it has been announced.

RSPB Arne will be the ‘main location’ for the show, which gets underway on May 29, with presenters such as Chris Packham on site.

And other spots across the Isle of Purbeck and wider Dorset will also feature, including Poole Harbour, Durlston Country Park and Swanage Bay.

Dante Munns, RSPB area manager for Dorset, said: “We’re really excited to welcome back the BBC to RSPB Arne nature reserve, as we host Springwatch for three weeks from May 29 to June 15.

“The BBC were last with us for Winterwatch 2017, which was a fantastic experience.

“We’re delighted that audiences will now be able to discover RSPB Arne and its wonderful wildlife from the comfort of their sofas, and at its peak time of year where the air buzzes, flaps, and slithers with new life.”

She said the broadcasts would be a

chance for viewers to find out more about the ‘amazing’ wildlife in Purbeck and the surrounding areas.

“It’s also at the forefront of innovation when it comes to working together with dedicated partners and passionate local communities to protect Dorset’s nature, and help our wildlife thrive now and long into the future,” Dante said.

“RSPB Arne nature reserve is at the heart

of the UK’s first ever Super National Nature Reserve, Purbeck Heaths. Here, the inspirational work of the RSPB and partners has protected and restored nature on a massive scale.

“We hope BBC Springwatch will showcase and celebrate these collaborative stories achieving huge wins for Purbeck’s nature, as well as all the wonderful wildlife that calls RSPB Arne home.”

Earth Day lesson for youngsters

CHILDREN at Tops Day Nurseries in Wimborne learned about the importance of protecting the environment when they celebrated Earth Day.

The youngsters created an ‘Earth Mobile’ highlighting how the world can be protected through recycling and reusing items individuals see every day.

This project illustrated the importance of the earth and its resources, and how to take care of them.

The children also visited a local pond where they learned about the importance of water and how wildlife that lives in and around the pond can be protected.

Hannah Stanyon, deputy manager at the nursery in Leigh Road, said: “We are thrilled to celebrate Earth Day with our children and to help them learn about the importance of protecting our environment.

environmental education is a critical part of our curriculum, and we are committed to

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providing our children with the tools and knowledge they need to make a difference in the world.”

Boy, 7, bitten by dog in pub garden

A SEVEN-YEAR-OLD boy suffered a head injury that required surgery after being bitten by a dog in a Swanage pub garden.

Police are appealing for information after the incident, which happened at around 5.10pm on Tuesday, May 2, in the garden of The Crows Nest Inn, in Ulwell Road.

The boy was in the garden of The Crows Nest Inn in Ulwell Road when he was bitten by a dog, sustaining an injury to his head. He was taken to hospital for treatment.

The injury required surgery but is not believed to be lifethreatening or life-changing, police said.

It was reported that a man and woman who were with the dog left the scene with the animal shortly after the incident and did not leave their details.

PC Alistair James, of Purbeck police, said: “This was understandably a distressing

incident for the young boy involved and his family and we hope he makes a full recovery from his injury.

“We are conducting enquiries into this matter and have obtained an image of a man and woman with the dog that was believed to be involved. We are keen to speak to these people so we can take their account of what happened.

“I would urge anyone with information relating to their identity to please come forward. I would also ask the man and woman pictured to please do the right thing and come forward.

“I would also like to hear from any witnesses to the incident who have not already spoken to police.”

Anyone with information should contact Dorset Police via www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 55230067142. They can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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Police are keen to trace these two people

Tiger roars into action watched by thousands

TIGER Day at the Tank Museum at Bovington attracted thousands of visitors to see a very special tank in action.

The world’s only running Tiger 1 featured in a re-enactment of the battle in which it was captured 80 years ago in the Second World War.

Tiger 131 only runs on Tiger Day in April and September and always attracts huge crowds when it does.

Museum curator David Willey said: “A significant amount of work goes into keeping the Tiger running and it is extremely fragile and liable to faults.

“During the war it took 10 hours of maintenance for every hour the Tiger ran – now it takes the museum staff and engineers an astonishing 200 hours.”

Tiger 131 was designed by Germany during the Second World War and was captured in Tunisia in April 1943.

It was passed to the Tank Museum in 1951, which started restoration in the 1990s.

The tank has starred in its very own Tiger Day event since 2012, the latest attracting more than 4,500 visitors.

The Tiger 131 tank takes centre stage on ‘Tiger Day’ at the Tank Museum at Bovington

New support for pregnancy problems

A NEW specialist service is being offered to help women experiencing pregnancy-related fear, trauma or loss.

The Maternal Mental Health Service (MMHS), run by Dorset HealthCare, focuses on birth trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), moderate-to-severe Tokophobia (fear of childbirth) and baby loss including miscarriages, IVF failure, stillbirth or neonatal death.

The issues can cause significant distress, and the MMHS offers psychological assessments, evidencebased psychological therapy and specialist counselling from two dedicated clinical psychologists. It has been unveiled during Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week (May 1-7), which aims to spotlight the mental issues mums can experience before, during and after pregnancy.

MMHS consultant clinical psychologist, Dr Joanna Yilmaz,

said: “This much-needed new service fills a gap by focusing on those women with more complex needs, and those who may not qualify for our existing perinatal mental health support.

“And it has no time constraints on support, which means that we can talk about baby loss and birth trauma years later if necessary.

“Women referred to the service can be seen in their own homes, online or at a location where they feel comfortable.

“We can also signpost carers, partners and families to other suitable support networks.”

The MMHS works with the established perinatal mental health service in Bournemouth, as well as the Maternity Unit at Dorset County Hospital and St Mary’s Maternity Unit in Poole.

To access the service, please speak to your GP or other health professional and ask them to make a referral on your behalf.

Consultant clinical psychologist, Dr Joanna Yilmaz

Purbeck Pass is launched

SHOPPERS in Purbeck can enjoy discounts at town shops thanks to a new loyalty card.

Swanage Chamber of Trade, in conjunction with the information centre, has launched the Purbeck Pass.

The pass is designed to encourage locals and visitors to use Purbeck shops and businesses, who offer discounts to cardholders.

Costing £5 a year, the Purbeck Pass can be bought at the Information Centre in Shore Road, Swanage, and holders will be able to enjoy monthly deals from a range of shops.

The offers will be publicised on the chamber’s Facebook page, as well as on the dedicated Purbeck Pass Facebook page and by the businesses themselves.

Any profits from the scheme

will be used to enhance the Christmas light displays in Purbeck.

“The scheme is expected to gradually increase in scope over time,” said a chamber spokesperson.

“Businesses can join the scheme at no cost and already there has been a lot of local interest in doing so.”

They said the chamber had been all set to launch the

Hospital fete on June 10

scheme pre-Covid but decided to wait until businesses were back on their feet - and work on the ferry had been completed.

“The pass is one of the ways in which Chamber hopes to increase footfall and usage of local shops so that they continue to survive, even in the off season, for the benefit of local residents,” they added.

“Given the difficulties with public transport and the age of the Swanage population, it remains imperative that a range of goods and services remains available locally.”

For more details, log on to the Facebook page at https:// www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100091706637091.

GAMES, stalls, a raffle and more will be on offer at a traditional summer fete next month.

Christchurch Hospital will host the event on June 10 - with all proceeds going to the neighbouring Macmillan Caring Locally hospice.

Open from noon until 4pm, entry and parking are free, with events and attractions taking place in the hospital and hospice grounds in Fairmile Road.

Traditional games will offer prizes for everyone, while locally-owned super cars will be on display.

Visitors can also get their car cleaned at the volunteer-led car wash and the hospice gardens will be open for afternoon teas, set against the wonderful voices of Highcliffe-based choir The Diamond Divas.

The beneficiary, the Macmillan Unit, is a palliative care hospice.

Swanage shop looks set to close and become house after owner’s illness

A SWANAGE shop could be converted to a house if plans are approved, as one of the owners suffered illness.

An application has been submitted to Dorset Council laying out plans to convert Ballard Down Stores, at 10 Redcliffe Road, into a residential dwelling.

The application, on behalf of Mr and Mrs Harris, said: “The building was originally built as a house, with a shop downstairs, so the owners could run the shop and live upstairs.

“The upstairs comprises three bedrooms and a lounge and has been in residential use since construction.

“The downstairs comprises the kitchen (the only one in the building) together with the retail element; a small shop and a store room.”

It said the shop, pictured, has been ‘making a loss for some considerable time’, operated by the two owners, one of whom had become ‘very seriously ill’.

“While the owners have been tyring to

sell the shop over the last 11 months, without success, this illness has meant the shop will have to close, and this will happen in the coming weeks,” the application said. If converted into a house, changes would be made to the front of the building, although two parking spaces would remain, the application added, with a garden behind the garage remaining.

“On the south elevation (the front) on the ground floor, there will be a new front door, a new back door to a utility area and new large windows/bifold doors in what used to be the shop,” it said.

For more details, and to comment on the plan, log on to www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk and search for application reference P/ FUL/2023/02281.

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Crime: Dorset sixth safest area in the

CRIME in Dorset rose by 3.7% last year, according to new data.

The figures, which detail crimes reported in the 12 months to December 31, 2022, were released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) on April 27.

Despite the rise, Dorset remains the sixth safest area in the country. The average increase in crime across the country was 8.5%.

In 2021, which the figures are compared to, crime fell as a direct result of the national and

regional Covid-19 lockdown in January that year.

The figures show public order incidents fell by 6.9%, compared to a national rise of 2.8%; racially or religiously aggravated offences saw a reduction of 21.7%, compared to a national decrease of 2.4%.

Burglaries involving businesses and community premises fell 6.3%, compared to a national increase of 16.9%.

However, crimes involving violence against the person increased by 2.5% in Dorset, lower than the national increase

of 5.1%, while violence with injury rose by 2%, compared to the national rate of 8.3%.

Reports of sexual offences rose by 6.9%, closely in line with the national rate. In contrast, reports of rape offences fell by 2.3%, compared to the national rise of 3.7%.

Deputy Chief Constable Sam de Reya said: “It is encouraging to see that Dorset Police has remained in the top 10 safest counties across England and Wales. I am pleased to see we have maintained our position in sixth place.

Crime rose by 3.7% last year compared to 2021 when crime fell as a result of the Covid-19 lockdown in January of that year.

Police

“We strive to be the safest county in the country and remain driven to relentlessly pursue those criminals who cause the most harm to our communities, keeping people safe and putting victims first.

“We are also committed to improving victim care and customer service for everyone who contacts Dorset Police by improving our processes. The recent introduction of our Single Online Home website has made it easier for people to report crime online.

“Tackling overall violent

PHOTO: Dorset

crime, sexual offences and violence against women and girls remains a force priority and we are committed to maintaining our work in this area to reduce offences, support victims and bring perpetrators to justice.

“It is critical that victims understand that they will be listened to and supported. We continue working with colleagues in the Crown Prosecution Service to improve the services offered to those who report rape and other serious sexual offences.”

David Sidwick, Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset, said: “It’s good that Dorset has maintained its rating as the sixth safest county in England and Wales.

“I have made no secret that my aim is to make Dorset the safest county, however, I know how much work has gone into attaining and maintaining our current position, so I would like to thank everyone involved in that achievement.

“I accept that there is still more to do when it comes to tackling violence against women and girls. I know that confidence in reporting such serious crimes is absolutely vital, so to see a rise in reporting figures is encouraging – but I am not complacent.

“I will continue to work with the chief constable and other partners to focus on what more can be done in this area of policing.

“Although there has been a decline over the last year in racially or religiously aggravated offences, it is well known that such crimes are often under-reported, so I would like to take this opportunity to encourage those who are subjected to such crimes to report it to the police or through third-party partners.

“I have already started discussions as to how we can make the next improvement towards gaining that first position and making Dorset an even safer place to be.”

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BOVINGTON

Bovington Community Stores

BERE REGIS

Maces Stores

Bartletts Stores

BLANDFORD

Blandford Tourist Information

BRIANTSPUDDLE

Briantspuddle shop

CANFORD MAGNA

Canford Magna Garden Centre

CORFE CASTLE

Corfe Castle Village Stores

Corfe View Visitor Centre

Corfe Castle Railway Station

CROSSWAYS Post Office

Co-op

DORCHESTER

Goulds

HAMWORTHY

Co-op

AllWays Fryday

Mssons Supermarket

Hamworthy Library

Post Office

Central Convenience

Kings Fish and Chip shop

Premier Blandford Stores

Mayze Hairdressers

HARMANS CROSS

Foleys Garage

St Michaels Garage/BP

HOLTON HEATH

Clay Pipe Inn

KINGSTON

Scott Arms

LANGTON MATRAVERS

Langton Village Stores

LITTLEMOOR

Goulds Garden Centre

LYTCHETT MATRAVERS

Library

Tesco

Bere Farm/Café/Garden Centre

LYTCHETT MINSTER

The Bakers Arms

South Lytchett Manor Caravan Park

LULWORTH

Lulworth Visitor Centre

NORDEN

Norden Farm Shop

Norden Train Station

OWERMOIGNE

Dobies Garden Centre

Broadway Motors

PUDDLETOWN

Spar

Community Library

SANDFORD

Co-op Food & Petrol Station

Premier

Car call out for firefighters

A CAR dashboard caught fire on a busy Dorchester road. The drama unfolded on the A37 near the Weirs Roundabout at about 12.05pm on Thursday, April 20.

STOBOBOROUGH

Lookout Stores

Stoborough Garage

STUDLAND

Studland Stores

Bakers Arms

Isle of Purbeck Golf Club

SWANAGE

Swanage Tourist Information

Swanage News

MacCalls Newsagent

WH Smith

Jenkins Newsagent

Spar

Ballard Stores

Budgens Supermarket

Costcutters

Triangle Garage/Texaco

Durlston Castle

Nationwide Building Society

Swanage Train Station

Co-op

Swanage Musuem & Heritage Centre

Swanage Coastal Park

Traditional Barber

Swanage Conservative Club

Post Office

TINCLETON

Tincleton Church

TOLPUDDLE

Creech Farm Shop

ULWELL

Village Shop/Inn

UPTON

Lytchett & Upton Council

Aldi

Co-op

Spar

Upton Library

Upton News & Wine

WAREHAM

Premier Stores

Spar

Horseys Newsagents

One Stop Farwells

Co-op

Sainsburys

Purbeck Library

Purbeck Sports Centre

Wareham Conservative Club

Long Johns Fish and Chips

Chipperies Fish and Chips

Wareham Launderette

Wareham Train Station

The Purbeck Mobility Centre

Garden Gate Tea Rooms

The Horse & Groom

The Old Granary

The Quay Inn

The Bear Inn

WEST HOLME

West Holme Nurseries

WINFRITH NEWBURGH

The Post Office

WINTERBORNE WHITECHURCH

Lady Bailey Caravan Park

WINTERBORNE KINGSTON

Village Hall phone box

WINTERBORNE ZELSTON

Red Post Filling Station

WOOL

The Hidden Deli

Gillets Spar Shop

WORTH MATRAVERS

The Square & Compass

For more information or to be a pick-up point, please contact lorraine_drake@icloud.com

A crew from the town attended and dealt with the fire, which was confined to the dashboard, using a hosereel jet and a dry powder extinguisher.

PHOTO: Dorchester Fire Station

Mental Blanks end in victory for new quizmasters at Rotary charty event

A CHARITY quiz raised more than £1,800 for good causes.

The annual Christchurch Rotary Club Charity Quiz took place at Twynham School on April 15.

And the 38th contest saw a total of £1,883 raised for Rotary-nominated charities.

After a gruelling 10 rounds of questions on a variety of subjects, breaking off at half-time for fish and chips, the Mental Blanks team was crowned the winner, followed by The Invisibles, who had won the event for the last three years.

Organiser Paul Mills, of Christchurch Rotary, said that the major part of the sum was raised from the raffle, ‘for which the club is indebted to local businesses for providing excellent prizes’.

Next year’s quiz is set to take place on April 13. All are welcome to apply and bring a team.

We are a local award-winning family run business, we specialise in Mental Health cleaning such as Hoarding, extreme cleaning, bio hazard cleaning and needle pickups, because of our professional approach with this type of cleaning we have found ourselves working alongside some of Dorset’s biggest organisations and volunteer services where we clear, clean and reset homes, we are able to provide mattresses (second hand) bedding and linen if they find themselves without due to the clear up.

We have found this past year our service has been called upon on an almost daily basis, we receive calls from Hospital Discharge lounges all across Dorset where they are needing our specialist services where the clear up is a bio Hazard.

Mental health is finally becoming recognised and thankfully people are getting the help they need, but for those that haven’t found their courage yet we can help you, we can start by clearing and sorting your home so you are in a safe space to start your journey.

The Nental Blanks took the honours at the Christchurch quiz

Youngsters: Want to give fishing a go?

DORCHESTER & District

Angling Society Juniors are hosting a fishing open day at Revels Fishery & Tackle Shop on Saturday, June 3.

Youngsters who have ever thought about having a go at coarse angling – fishing on lakes, canals and rivers – are welcome to go along to the free-to-enter event.

Experienced coaches will show juniors the basics of fishing equipment, which baits are used and how to care for and look after the fish that are caught.

No previous experience is required and no equipment is

needed, just weatherappropriate clothing.

The event runs from 10am to 3pm with a break in the middle for a barbecue/ refreshments.

Juniors over the age of 13 will require a one-day rod licence, which the club can obtain if the youngsters don’t have one.

To book a place, or for more information, contact junior secretary Graham Howard at juniors.sec@d-das. com or look for DDAS Juniors on Facebook.

Booking closes on Thursday, June 1, at 9pm.

OPEN DAILY FROM 9.30AM

For Coffees/Teas or Drinks from the bar

Cooked Breakfasts

From 9.30a.m - 11.30a.m

LUNCHES 12pm - 2pm

SUNDAY ROAST

Booking is advisable

2pm - 5.30pm daily afternoon drinks only

EVENING MEALS

5.30pm - 8.45pm

Car Parking available

Arrange a swim in the heated indoor pool

Members of the Dorchester angling club are encouraging young people to try out the sport at a special event next month

Roll-up, roll-up for booster jabs

ELIGIBLE people are being urged to book their Covid-19 booster jabs this spring.

More than 75,000 people in Dorset are eligible for the vaccine top-up, and appointments are available to book now.

Over-75s, people aged five and over who have a weakened immune system and older adult care home residents are all entitled to a free vaccination to protect themselves from the virus.

Dorset’s vaccination teams have begun administering spring booster doses at clinics across the county, with appointments available through May and June.

Eligible residents will receive a message from the NHS reminding them to book an

appointment via the National Booking Service, or by calling 119.

If you think you should be eligible for a vaccine but have not been invited to have a jab, you can check online or self-declare via the National Booking Service.

A list of vaccine centres is available at www. dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/ covid-19-vaccination-service.

Paul Bolton, clinical services manager for the Dorset Covid-19 vaccination service, said: “Appointments are bookable across the county at more than 30 clinics in community hospitals, pharmacies and some GP surgeries.

“Eligible residents will have easy access to the latest vaccine

at a local clinic near to them.

“We have capacity for everyone, and they have until June 30 to get a jab, so there’s no need to rush. But it is important to book in advance.

“Our roving vaccination teams are working alongside our clinics to boost more than 12,000 of our most vulnerable people in care homes, as well as eligible housebound patients.”

After June 30, primary doses – first and second jabs – of the Covid-19 vaccine will no longer

Officially The Best Agent in Blandford

be available, except for people at higher risk, who will be able to book them during the annual spring and autumn programmes. Anyone who has yet to receive their first or second Covid-19 jabs is encouraged to book an appointment via the National Booking Service at a local clinic.

For more information on vaccinations visit nhs.uk and search for vaccinations. If you do not have online access, call 119 to book your appointment.

Symonds & Sampson are delighted to announce that they are officially the ‘Best Estate Agent in Blandford Forum’. The prestigious Gold Award from the British Property Awards is a highly sought-after prize and one that David Price, Rosie Thorpe and Bridget Legg are understandably delighted to have won. As a team, they regularly receive commendations from clients for their professional expertise and excellent customer service, skills which obviously impressed the mystery shoppers judging the awards.

If you are considering a move, why not contact David, Rosie and Bridget on 01258 452670 or call into the office in Market Square, where you’ll be guaranteed a warm welcome and professional advice you can rely on.

More than 75,000 people in Dorset are eligible for a Covid-19 vaccine top-up, including the over-75s and older care home residents

News from Wareham Town Council – April report

By Julie Bradley

HAVING been away from Wareham, Kevin Randall was dismayed to find the bike park in Hauses Field, which he built, and which took two years of fundraising, had been dismantled. Mr Randall asked to see paperwork which said the bike park was unsafe.

Dorset Council has a fund to help families struggling with the cost of living. Applications should be made to Purbeck Citizens Advice. Carey Hall coffee mornings discontinued at the end of April.

The council welcomed Tom to the grounds team and Katie as administrative officer. The grounds team will now be able to cover a rota which includes weekends, especially as a cleaning company will be used to service the public toilets.

At the recreation ground the play area was badly damaged. At the roundabout by the railway bridge the tub has been repaired and replaced.

Repairs to the roof of the town hall were scheduled to start on May 9. A new accounting system will give councillors greater access to the council’s expenditure. The town clerk is working on an online booking system. The museum opening day was a success.

At the planning and transport committee meeting Cllr Dean pointed out that the boat hire company had received planning permission from Dorset Council to build a larger kiosk.

Two candidates had come forward for co-option to the council. Malcolm Lewis is known for Tower Chimes, the

Visit Wareham website and the Saxon Festival.

David Robinson moved to Wareham in 2016 and is enjoying living here. He works as an information analyst for the NHS and has a particular interest in planning and transport.

The councillors voted and sportingly Mr Lewis shook the hand of the new councillor.

Cllr Goodinge expressed her appreciation that there were two candidates and said she hoped they would both stand at the town council election next year.

On Sunday, May 7, street parties will take place in North

Street from 2.30-4.30pm with entertainment by the town band and Karl Latimer, and at Carey Hall from 2-6pm with singer Steve Dominey. Take your own food and join your neighbours.

Councillors decided that as a deterrent as well as for detection, a working CCTV system was important. Some cameras will be replaced, cabling improved and the recorder relocated to the town clerk’s office.

The Mayor Making is on Thursday, May 18, at 7pm in the Corn Exchange, and the next council meeting is on Tuesday, May 30, at 7pm in the council chamber.

For more information, contact the town council office on 01929 553006 or consult the council’s website, www. wareham-tc.gov.uk.

High Street.

It is reported the victim was hit with a glass bottle and sustained an injury to his nose.

Morris dancers may be heading down your way CCTV appeal on bottle attack

A MAN needed surgery after being hit with a bottle in Christchurch High Street in the early hours of Saturday, April 1.

Police have issued a CCTV image (right) of a person they would like to speak to in connection with the incident, which happened at about 1.35am.

The victim – a man in his 20s – was assaulted by an unknown attacker on Millhams Street and

PC Samuel Burlton, of Christchurch police, said: “The victim required surgery following this incident and we are determined to identify the person responsible for causing the injuries.

“I am now issuing a CCTV image of the suspect and while I appreciate the image is not very clear, I am hoping someone may recognise the man from his general build and clothing.”

Anyone with information should contact Dorset Police via www.dorset.police.uk or on 101, quoting incident number 55230050003. They can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

DORSET Button Morris are looking for new dancers –and anyone interested is welcome to watch them perform and have a go as they dance in the Purbeck area this summer.

The ladies side dance North-West Morris, which comes from the North-West of England and emerged from the cotton mills.

The men’s side dance Rapper Sword Morris, which originates from the coal pits in the North-East. Rapper swords were used to clean pit ponies and the coal workers used these to dance during the evening.

Dorset Button Morris are dancing out most

Wednesdays this summer: May 10, Wareham Quay; May 17, Swanage sea front; May 24, St Peters Finger; May 31, Clay Pipe; June 7, Castle Inn, Lulworth; June 21, Corfe Castle Square; June 28, Black Bear, Wool; July 5, Square and Compass; July 12, Red Lion, Winfrith; July 26, Castle Inn, Lulworth; August 9, Bankes Arms, Studland; August 16, Swanage sea front; August 23, Square and Compass; August 30, Red Lion, Winfrith; September 6,Wareham Quay.

The group will be collecting for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance at all performances.

PHOTO: Simon Barnes

Nick’s honoured to take the helm

FUNERAL director Nick Douch has taken on a role at the helm of a county-wide group.

Nick, managing director of Douch Family Funeral Directors, has been installed as president of the Bournemouth and District Association of Funeral Directors (BAFD).

He takes over from Stuart Major, of Christchurch’s Miller Brothers.

The BAFD is the local branch of the National Association of Funeral Directors and dates from the 1890s.

Douch Family Funeral Directors was founded in 1910 and Nick is the first member of the family to head the

organisation. At the ceremony to install him with the chain of office were 11 members of the company, including his father, Peter. Also present was the president of the National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD), John Adams.

“It is an honour to be installed as president of the BAFD, which is an historic organisation,” said Nick.“It has been representing funeral directors in this area for well over 120 years and I will be doing my best to continue that work.

“Although it is part of the NAFD, it pre-dates it and covers an area including Bournemouth, Poole, East Dorset, the Isle of Purbeck and into north Dorset. Following

Covid I’d like to encourage more communication between all parties who support the bereaved in our area.

“We work in a sensitive area and the more communication between those in it, the better. We’d also like more funeral businesses to be active with the association – the bigger we are the louder our voice.

“The NAFD has a strict code of conduct and those people looking for a funeral director should check that businesses are members.”

Douch Family Funeral Directors has branches in Swanage, Wareham, Wimborne, Ferndown, Parkstone, Corfe Mullen and Blandford.

Nick Douch has been installed as president of the Bournemouth and District Association of Funeral Directors, taking over from Stuart Major, of Christchurch’s Miller Brothers

Man jailed for ambulance assault

“I DO my job simply because I want to make a difference. I come to work each day to offer treatment, care and comfort to those in greatest need.”

The words of an emergency care worker after a man was jailed for sexually assaulting her in the back of an ambulance taking him to hospital.

The woman, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was assaulted by James Macky, from London, on June 24 last year.

At Bournemouth Crown Court, on Friday, March 24, 58-year-old Macky was sentenced for sexual assault, criminal damage to property and racially-aggravated fear/ provocation of violence.

He was sentenced to three years and two months behind bars and was put on the sex offenders register for life.

The incident unfolded after a 999 call was made to the South Western Ambulance Service

NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) to help Macky.

The female emergency care assistant, from Dorset, was sexually assaulted in the back of the ambulance on the way to Poole Hospital.

On arrival at Poole Hospital, Macky also caused criminal damage to the ambulance and urinated on life-saving equipment within the vehicle. The ambulance was then subsequently out of operation for 36 hours while it was deep cleaned and repaired.

The NHS worker added: “When I arrived for my shift, I did not expect to be spat at, sexually assaulted, and subjected to threatening behaviour, appalling racial remarks and misogynistic comments.

“This individual showed utter contempt towards me and my fellow crew members who were simply trying to do their jobs.

“Unfortunately, these incidents are becoming more prevalent, and no one should feel afraid to come to work.

Luckily, I was wearing a body camera, which captured the assault and the footage was used as evidence.

“I would like to thank my senior officers for their support and commitment to me during this difficult time.”

Alan Packwood, crime and violence reduction officer at SWASFT, said: “What happened to our female crew member is shocking and completely unacceptable. James Macky assaulted them while they were trying to help him.

“The criminal damage to the ambulance resulted in the vehicle being taken of the road, at a time when the service was already stretched.

“As an organisation we will prosecute any individual who assaults or abuses one of our people while they are at work.

“Please help us to help you and treat them with the dignity and respect they deserve.”

Don’t apply to register a Lasting Power of Attorney when you need to use it – start the process a year in advance.

Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) are becoming increasingly important. As you get older, you can sign this document giving someone (an attorney) whom you know and trust the ability to make decisions about your life. How easy is it to apply for one? Long delays in the legal system mean it is better to apply sooner rather than later. Senior Associate Private Client Solicitor Lucy Horsington explains the difficulties.

In order for a Lasting Power of Attorney (“LPA”) to be activated, it needs to be registered at the Office of the Public Guardian (“OPG”). Until then, it is just a piece of paper you have signed.

Currently, it can take upward of six to eight months for the OPG to deal with your application and to register the LPA. The OPG asks people not to ring up and enquire about progress for the first twenty weeks. In the 2021/22 financial year the backlog was over 160,000. This can cause significant problems, particularly if there is a need to make an urgent decision such as moving into a residential home.

A further difficulty that arises is that the LPA form is a very long one and it needs to be signed by the various people in the right order. First, the individual (donor) needs to sign the form and then a certificate provider has to sign. This is an additional check to review capacity and understanding of the LPA by the donor

and to assess if there has been any undue pressure exerted on them to sign. The people who are going to be appointed as attorneys need to sign it before it can be sent to the OPG for registration. The OPG are sticklers about the paperwork being signed and dated correctly and completed in the right order. Of course, some of the people who are completing these LPAs are elderly and mistakes can happen. As a result, you may find that after several months waiting, you receive the LPA back with a note saying that it has been rejected. We can help avoid these risks.

The OPG are trying to staff up in order to improve matters, but progress is still slow. In the meantime, the OPG is advocating the submission of LPAs online and has suggested that people think of other ways to organise their affairs without using a LPA, for example completing an informal letter setting out their wishes and intentions, providing a copy of that to their GP, signing authorities in favour of the bank and so on.

This leaves elderly and vulnerable people in a very difficult situation. LPAs are the better option as they are comprehensive

and clear. If you think that you will need to use your LPA sooner rather than later, register it today!

The victim, a female emergency care assistant, was wearing a body camera which captured the assault with the footage used in court

Telling It Like It Is

Progress as policing talk planned

I’M pleased to report that I’ve had a very positive response to my challenge to our Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick, pictured.

He has agreed to come down to Swanage and hear about the problems we’ve been having with drugs, burglaries, street violence and petty crime.

Linda Welsh and I have organised a meeting at the Methodist Church, 105 High Street, on Monday, June 12, at 7pm. As well as Mr Sidwick and as many senior police officers as he can bring, our local county councillors Bill Trite and Gary Suttle have promised to be there. We’re also inviting youth leaders, local school heads, and anyone else whose input may positively contribute to a solution to this ever-increasing problem. Even Richard Drax is being invited.

But the most important person being invited is you, dear reader. If you have ever felt that anti-social behaviour is taking over our streets, if you have been the victim of crime, however petty; if you are concerned about the teenage drug-taking in our public areas and the open dealing on our streets, if you have ever written to Facebook and complained about the absence of police on our streets, in short – if you have had enough, then please take the time to be at the Methodist Church at 7pm and support those of us who feel the same, by talking to and above all, listening to David Sidwick.

Caveats – this is not about dustbins, speed cameras, dog fouling, overgrown vegetation, potholes, dangerous kerbs, and other council matters. It is about Policing and reclaiming our streets.

It is about campaigning for a 24-hour police presence, a proper police station, and a return to safety and decency.

It is clear that most of the kids hanging about and making mischief in the wee small hours

By David Hollister

have parents. Are you one of them? Do you know where your children are at midnight? Do you lie awake at night wondering where the hell they are and what they are up to, who they are mixing with? Are you one of the many people who have contacted us privately –and are you prepared to come along and seek a solution? Or are you one of the ‘night people’ who are so desperate for a warm place to go in the evening and just hang out safely with your mates? And I don’t mean ‘youth initiatives’ or ‘crafts’, I just mean four walls, a sound system and a coffee machine. Whatever your age, you will be made most welcome.

Please come. Talk to us. Listen. It’s only one evening out of your life and it may just make a difference.

Extinction Rebellion staged a protest calling for the closure of Wytch Farm oil field. Groups of protestors against the climate crisis from across Dorset gathered at the oilfield to demand its immediate closure.

They raised a banner reading ‘End Fossil Fuels Now’.

Their spokesperson said: “Wytch Farm’s recent oil spill is yet another example of the destructive and polluting dangers of fossil fuels. The safest option is for Wytch Farm to close immediately, and for our Government to lead an immediate and just transition to renewables.”

In my youth, I was an idealist; I marched to Aldermaston, joined the CND, and all the other passions of youth.

In my mind and on principle, I’m with ER all the way. But life gets in the way.

We have to seek viable alternative to fossil fuel with 33.2 million cars and 7.5 million other vehicles depending on it. This is not an option.

If we don’t make that change,

nature will do it for us. And gluing myself to the road won’t help, either.

For all those of us who need to get from A to B, electric vehicles aren’t a full-time answer; they’re just a sticking plaster over the huge cracks.

The infrastructure is not in place and will take years to install; in the meantime we will have queues a mile long during holiday period, chargers either not working or vandalised and no facility for home charging if you live in a flat or even a terraced house.

Britain has taken a leap into the unknown, put the cart before the horse.

Do you believe charging costs and tax will remain as they are, or the government inducements and perks will soon be removed once there are enough motorists driving EVs? Lost revenue will be passed on to EV users. It has to come from somewhere.

The Government is also spending huge amounts of money on cycle lanes, in an attempt to beef up their green credentials. They seem to ignore the fact that most cyclists don’t use them (Sandford, take note) and that as a credible means of transport in the countryside,

bikes just don’t do it.

19% of the UK’s population is over 65. 1.6 million adults aged 50 or over are unable to work due to long-term sickness. A great many more of us don’t actually want to ride bikes due to our rural locations, distance from work, an unwillingness to get wet, a pathological aversion to Lycra, or – as in my case –just too lazy and unfit.

Even the forthcoming Purbeck leg of the Tour Of Britain, an event which would have put money in our coffers and maybe tigers in our tanks, has been cancelled.

They say, “Following extensive meetings with Dorset Council, and in light of their planned events programme and commitments for 2023, hosting a stage of the Tour of Britain in the county this year is not possible.

“We remain in discussions with them about the opportunity to take the race to Dorset in 2024.”.

Don’t hold your breath!

I was astonished to read of the Swanage woman in her 80s who has won a gold and two silver medals at the World Masters Athletics Indoor Championships in Poland.

She’s a credit to her generation and as a survivor of breast cancer and a stroke, nothing short of a miracle.

She puts me to shame; I’m 10 years younger and physically fit enough to emulate her, were I not so lazy and had I started training 50 years ago! Dot Fraser – my hat’s well and truly off!

‘Be good to hedgehogs this spring,’ says RSPCA ahead of Chelsea show

IT is estimated that in the past two decades, up to threequarters of all of Britain’s rural hedgehogs have been lost - with one of the biggest threats to their survival being starvation, due to the decline of bugs they eat.

The RSPCA’s upcoming RHS Chelsea Flower Show garden will highlight the prickly issue.

Hedgehogs are brought into the care of the charity’s wildlife centres by animal rescuers or members of the public, usually after they’ve been seen out during the day due to illness, injury, and worryingly, being underweight after struggling to find food.

To mark Hedgehog Awareness Week, which ran to May 7, the RSPCA is urging

people with gardens and outdoor spaces to go online and pledge to help encourage hedgehogs into their neighbourhoods.

The public is being asked to provide means for hedgehogs to find plentiful food such as insects - from building a hedgehog house, popping a ramp in and out of any garden ponds, growing insect-friendly plants or building a dead-hedge habitat.

The call comes ahead of the opening of the RSPCA Garden at the Chelsea Flower Show, where the charity will be showcasing hedgehog-friendly gardening ideas. These include three hedgehog houses, a stunning dead hedge area including hedgehog habitat, and pollinator-friendly plants.

Purbeck Get in touch

Veterinary care in Dorset for a long, long time!

We now have six branches based in Wimborne, Verwood, Bournemouth, Ensbury Park and your Purbeck team in Wareham and Swanage. We are here to provide you with all your veterinary needs. We have modern facilities and a fantastic team providing a friendly and welcoming service. We treat every client and pet as an individual, always putting your needs first and ensuring we give each patient the time they need.

Our first priority will always be the health and happiness of our patients, just as it has been for the best part of 200 years. Long may it continue!

Fresh from your

GROWING your own produce fresh from the garden comes with many advantages – not only will it provide you with fresh and delicious produce, it is also a healthy activity and is great for educating children about where their food comes from.

Picking a good location in the garden is absolutely key!

Try and choose a sunny spot – most vegetables need at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight a day, although some leafy veggies will tolerate some shade. Another must is having well drained soil – wet soil means wet roots, which can turn into rotted roots.

If you are growing vegetables for the first time I

TREE CONTROL Tree

I

would recommend lettuce, tomatoes, radishes, cucumber and carrots. These vegetables will require very little care besides planting and watering.

TOP TIP – if you put banana skins on top of the soil where your tomatoes grow, it will ripen them quicker!

HERB GARDENS

HERBS are a must in any garden – not only can they be used in cooking, teas, cocktails and herbal remedies, they will also bring beautiful fragrant foliage to your garden!

The easiest herbs to grow are perennial herbs that you can buy in pots – these include rosemary, mint, chives and lavender, which will all thrive in full sun!

A few herbs will do well in dry conditions, including rosemary, sage, lavender and thyme, but they will need

watering once a week. All other herbs should be watered more frequently, preferably every day.

Growing herbs in containers is a great way to be able to enjoy them on your decking, patio and outdoor spaces. This means they are at hand when cooking for the family in the summer! Whether you are having a barbecue, or enjoy a fresh slice of pizza, you will have fresh summer produce right at hand.

Goulds’assistant plant area manager Will

garden!

Make the most of summer

SUMMER has finally arrived, and all our gardens and patios and balconies are ablaze with colour.

New flowers, foliage emerging every day. Roses, Perennials, Trees, and Shrubs full of blossoms, scents and busy insects buzzing and humming, pollinating as they go. All your summer bedding, patio and basket plants can all be planted out now. They come in every colour, trailing, upright for full sun or shade.

Check with your nursery, garden centre, staff to select the best for baskets and containers.

Choose from geraniums, begonias, bizzy Lizzie, marigolds, lobelias, fuchsias, petunias, trailing, upright or bush, to suit every situation.

Vegetable plots, greenhouses, all your tender beans, tomatoes, courgette, cucumber, chillies, and many more can now all be

PLANTS DIRECT

safely planted or potted out to get the summer sunshine for strong growth and heavy cropping. Fruit bushes, and plants may need to be netted to protect from birds and mammals so that fruit is in tip top condition for eating.

Sowing of vegetable seeds can still be carried out for later crops of fresh Carrots, Lettuce, Spring Onions, Peas, and Beans. Late planting of seed, Potatoes can still be done.

Lawns can be fed and weeded. Seed can be sown, for repairs and renewals. Feeding of all your pots, baskets, containers throughout the summer with liquid or granular feed, will be, essential for more flowers, fruits, and health.

Make the most of these summer days, sit back and enjoy all your gardens and plants.

Pizza herb gardens have become very popular with the rise of alfresco dining in summer! If you have a pizza oven in your garden and would like to start your very own pizza-herb garden, pop in to Goulds Garden Centre where our friendly team can give you all the advice you may need. Happy gardening!

Join us in-store at Goulds Garden Centre for tasty pizza tastings!

Jack and Matt from Gozney will be cooking up delicious stone-baked pizzas in-store to demonstrate the Roccbox portable pizza oven and accessories. This portable pizza

oven gives an authentic taste, crust and finish – and what’s more Jack and Matt can cook a pizza in 60 seconds! But don’t take our word for it, come along and taste for yourself on Saturday, May 20, from 11am.

SUE BUTTERWORTH

GouldsGC.co.uk

n SUE Butterworth is in her 24th year at Goulds Garden Centre. She is the plant manager for this busy store and has been sourcing plants for awardwinning gardens at the Chelsea Flower Show since 2018. She is an avid gardener, leading to numerous Britain in Bloom awards, including a 1st.

Bespoke upholstery & reupholstery service.

High quality, traditionally made furniture. Residential and contract upholstery in the Dorset area since the 1980s.

01258 455397 office@minsterfurniture.co.uk

Growing your own is a great way to educate children about food

David’s garden efforts in memory of wife feature in new fundraising book for hospice

A GARDENER who began volunteering at a Dorset hospice after sadly losing his wife, has written a book about his experiences.

David Dawson has written of work to transform the grounds at Forest Holme in recent years.

Volunteer David hopes proceeds from the book, Forest Holme Flowers, will help provide more much-needed care.

The book is his personal account of how he, along with his fellow volunteer gardeners, dedicated time over the past few years to transform the garden at the Poole-based hospice into an oasis of calm and colour for patients and their families.

David’s volunteering efforts began nearly five years ago after he sadly lost his wife to cancer.

He wanted to give something back, especially as he had experienced first-hand the positive impact of the hospice and had enjoyed time outside in the garden with his wife before

she died.

“When I learned of Forest Holme’s need for a volunteer gardener it was a no brainer,” he said.

“Having personally experienced the love and care given to my lovely wife by Forest Holme on her journey to heaven, to transform large areas of boring bark to attractive, colourful flower borders was a challenge worth taking to benefit all patients, visitors and staff to the hospice.

“I sincerely hope that my book will give enjoyment to all its readers, as it covers dedication, humour, community, empathy and teamwork proving that love and care strongly exist in the world we live in today.”

Kirsty Perks, from the charity, said: “David was instrumental in launching a drive to create the beautiful and tranquil garden space that the hospice has today.

“David not only goes out and about to collect plants and other

items for the garden, but he also grows plants and flowers from seed at home in his greenhouse before transferring them to Forest Holme.

“He is a wonderfully gentle and kind soul who always has a smile on his face and is a joy to have around the Hospice when he is volunteering.”

Since taking on the role David, along with volunteer gardeners Viv and Petula, has estimated to have planted well over 3,000 plants, including at least 1,000 daffodils, as well as

landscaping, creating borders and providing a weekly general up-keep of the outdoor spaces at the hospice which provides end-of-life and palliative care to people across Poole, Wimborne and Isle of Purbeck.

Forest Holme Flowers is available from the fundraising office at Forest Holme for £6, or by post for £7 (including p&p).

If you would like to purchase a copy contact the team either via telephone on 01202 670644, or by email to fundraising@ forestholmehospice.org.uk.

David shows off his book in the gardens he has helped transform at Forest Holme Hospice

David and his fellow volunteers have transformed the gardens at Forest Holme

How not getting your eyes tested could land you with a £1,000 fine

NOT getting your eyes tested could end in a £1,000 fine - or even a driving ban.

New data from the Association of Optometrists (AOP) reveals two-thirds of drivers in the UK who use glasses are ‘putting off’ updating their prescription.

As a result, their vision isn’t suitable for driving – increasing the risk of accidents, the AOP says.

Should vision play a factor in any collision, then it could result in a fine of £1,000 and three points on a driving licence.

The research revealed that up to 20% of drivers who require glasses have not have their eyes tests in at least three years.

The police have the power to carry out vision screen tests on the side of the road, with drivers needing to be able to read a number plate 20 metres away.

Almost half of Britain’s optometrists reported to the AOP that they have dealt

with patients that were driving on the roads, despite their vision being legally too dangerous.

And police data has shown that around 3,000 people are killed or injured by drivers with bad eyesight (or where eyesight has played a part in the cause of the collision) each year.

Further research from the Department for Transport (DfT) has shown that 42% of incidents involving drivers over the age of 70 were due to sight issues.

The AOP criticised the Government for not addressing this urgent issue over the last few years.

Adam Sampson, AOP’s chief executive, said: “It’s deeply concerning that a 17 year-old who can read a number plate from

20 metres away when they take their driving test, may continue to drive with no further checks for the rest of their life.

“We have to ask ourselves why the UK system, which relies on self-reporting and a number plate test, continues to operate under a law first introduced in 1937 to the detriment of an individuals’ safety.

“Sight loss can often be gradual, and people may not notice changes that could affect their ability to drive so it’s important to remember that regular vision checks are an essential part of helping to stay safe as a driver.”

However, despite the calls from AOP, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) said it is up to drivers to report any decline in eyesight.

New young drivers could face restriction

stated drivers who are under 25 account for fewer crashes than those over 85, who remain free of any extra rules.

But groups such as the Support for Victims of Road Crashes, which acts as an

adviser to the Department for Transport, has backed the plans.

Roads Minister Richard Holden will now consider amendments, and an official announcement is expected after a meeting scheduled on May 16.

NEWLY-QUALIFIED young drivers could be banned from giving their friends a lift, it has been reported.

According to the RAC, ministers are considering plans to stop young people who pass their test from giving lifts to friends in a bid to cut the number of peer-pressure car crashes.

Drivers under the age of 25 could be prevented from having any young passengers in the vehicle as part of a ‘graduated driving licence’, it is claimed.

The plan would see young drivers legally banned from offering lifts in the first 12 months after they gain their

licence.

It comes amid claims peer pressure is a leading factor in crashes among young drivers.

These drivers make up only 6% of drivers in the UK – but account for one in every five serious or fatal crashes.

Under current legislation, there are no extra rules in place for recently qualified drivers. However, drivers have to pass a probationary period of two years where they are only allowed six points on their licence before having it revoked.

The considerations have not been confirmed, yet critics of the potential changes have

Government pumps cash into EV charging points

FUNDING for more electric vehicle charging points has been announced by the Government.

The extra cash is part of a series of new measures aimed at supporting the shift to electric vehicles (EVs) as part of the UK’s wider plans to transition towards net-zero.

A new £381 million Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) fund has been introduced, alongside an additional £15 million for the On-Street Residential Charging Scheme (ORCS).

The funding will support the installation of tens of thousands of new chargers, increasing EV infrastructure

across the UK.

Transport Secretary Mark Harper said: “Transport is one of the most important sectors for achieving net-zero by 2050 and so we must accelerate our efforts to decarbonise how people get from A to B, while growing our economy and supporting thousands of green jobs.”

Alongside the funding, the Government has unveiled new proposals for a zero emission vehicle mandate.

From 2024, parliament will set minimum annual targets for the percentage of new car and van sales that must be zero emission.

The announcement comes

as data showed almost 17% of new cars sold last year were zero emission.

Technology and Decarbonisation Minister Jesse Norman said: “The Government is doing more than ever to help the UK move away from petrol and diesel and towards electric vehicles.

“That means investing in charging infrastructure and giving a clear direction to manufacturers, so they can roll out new electric vehicles faster and more efficiently.

“Overall, the UK is leading the way in decarbonising transport, a sector that is one of the biggest contributors to greenhouse gases.”

Previously, the Government committed to ending the sale of petrol and diesel cars and vans by 2030 – and from 2035, all new vehicles must be fully zero emission.

RAC electric vehicles spokesman Simon Williams said: “Extra funding for charging infrastructure is welcome as we know around a third of all homes in the UK don’t have a driveway for a charge point to be installed, which makes switching to an electric vehicle less straightforward.

“With the Government imposing a mandate for zero emission vehicle sales on manufacturers, it seems logical that this should be matched by targets for local authorities and charging networks to install a certain number of charge points, to meet demand from the expected increase in electric vehicles on the road.”

Call for motorway literers to be hit with fines

LITTERING on motorways across the UK has become a serious issue for drivers and locals – and the problem is apparently getting worse.

It is got to the point where motoring group the RAC Foundation fears the nation is approaching a ‘point of no return’ due to uncollected litter piling up on the side of the roads, and becoming embedded in the landscape.

Steve Gooding, director of the foundation, said: “In 1,000 years, we risk archaeologists digging up the past and identifying the 21st-century road network not by the buried tarmac but by the lines of litter that bordered it.”

Responsibility for maintaining the motorways and keeping them free of litter falls on National Highways.

Freda Rashdi, of National Highways, said: “Littering is a social problem and we’re working hard to tackle it on our roads.

“It includes using CCTV in A-road lay-bys to gather evidence to provide to local authorities, who can carry out enforcement.

“We’re also carrying out a trial to understand how message signs resonate with drivers to reduce motorway littering.”

Drivers can report littering on the roads to National Highways.

With the issue escalating, in March this year, 25 MPs signed a motion to raise awareness of littering on the motorways.

The motion stated: “That this House deplores the huge amount of litter on motorways, access road, junctions and verges; notes that there is a crystal clear legal obligation on National Highways to ensure roads are kept clear of litter; and calls on National Highways to act on this obligation, use motorway gantries to promote anti-littering messaging, ensure staff and contractors remove signs, sandbags and cones following roadworks in a timely manner and ensure contracts include financial penalties for not doing so.”

Conservative MP for Hemel Hempstead, Sir Mike Penning, branded current levels of

littering on the motorways a ‘national disgrace’ and is urging the Government to issue stronger penalties for those caught and for National Highways to clean up the mess.

Penning also believes that National Highways are failing in their duty to keep roads free of rubbish.

He said: “Some of our motorways go through the most beautiful parts of the country. It is like driving through a rubbish tip. We have the technology to prosecute and we’re not doing it.”

Earlier this year, anti-litter campaign group Clean Up Britain launched an action plan calling for the introduction of £1,000 littering fines (up from £150) and for six penalty points on the driver’s licence.

John Read, the group’s founder, said: “We go around the country, and we film motorways and major A roads just to show the public because this is the important thing - the British public need to see what a disgusting, filthy, rancid country they live in.

“It’s really sad to say that but it’s true. And we seem to lost our pride and respect in Britain. We need desperately to get it back because at the moment the country looks like an open cast tip. It really does, it looks like a rubbish bin.”

Enchanting emeralds

By Amy Brenan, director of Heirlooms Jewellers, 21 South Street, Wareham

EMERALD is the birthstone for May and is sometimes known as the ‘Jewel of Kings’. It is said to represent truth, unconditional love, good luck and can bring abundance into your life.

Spiritually, the emerald is considered to be a life-affirming stone by opening the heart chakra and calming the emotions.

This vibrant gemstone was first discovered over 4,000 years ago and was adored by the ancient Egyptians for its mystical powers.

Apparently, the Romans considered the emerald so powerful that they would stare

into one to relieve stress and eye strain! Cleopatra herself was a huge fan.

This might not be as farfetched as it sounds because the

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inclusions in an emerald can create the most beautiful pattern, known as the emerald’s jardin (garden).

Unlike many gemstones where inclusions can devalue a stone and make it less desirable, in the case of an emerald, the inclusion can add beauty and interest.

In emeralds, inclusions can be considered less important than the colour, for example.

Emeralds are relatively rare and are always a different hue of green, ranging from a yellowgreen to deep jade, but beware!

The palest stones are not actually emeralds, but rather known as green beryl.

If you find an emerald that is very pale, it may not be an emerald at all and could be a green beryl.

Although the emerald might be considered a more traditional choice, recent research has shown that it is becoming popular with those looking for an alternative engagement ring, as well as featuring in some stunning contemporary jewellery designs in a range of metals and settings.

Food for Thought makes a difference

UP to 50 food insecure families in Swanage and Purbeck have been supported by a weekly Mobile Larder since the start of the year. Every Monday, a FareShare van pulls into the playground of St Mark’s School. Our local schools, in Swanage, Langton and Corfe – at the heart of their communities – have gone the extra mile to support the larder.

Families identified by the schools have become members of FareShare, collecting their crates and cool bags of food either in person or through the schools. Volunteer drivers make deliveries to the schools or to members’ homes.

Members who require it are signposted to Citizens Advice.

FareShare – a well-regarded national organisation, with the mission to redistribute good quality surplus food to those who need it – is now ready to provide Swanage and Purbeck with a second Mobile Larder.

Food for Thought Purbeck operates under the umbrella of the Swanage and Purbeck Development Trust. It is very grateful to the trust for its unfailing support and encouragement, as it is to Dorset Help and Kindness, whose grant of further funding will pay for the second Larder.

The schools, as well as our Swanage and Purbeck FareShare members, have been generous with their praise.

A local headteacher wrote: “The FareShare scheme that we were invited to join in January this year has been invaluable to our families…

“They are all incredibly appreciative of the support they receive and comment positively each week on the wide and varied array of food they are supported with. The volunteers of the scheme, who

set this up and led this in Swanage, are wonderful people. Without their invaluable support and the delivery of the food to our school, most of the families who are members of FareShare would simply not be able to access the provision.”

A single mum wrote to Debby Monkhouse, Swanage town councillor at the forefront of the scheme: “This scheme has helped so much and eased my worries… Thank you so much”. The Swanage and Purbeck Development Trust has very exciting plans to develop the Children’s Centre and adjacent sites at Chapel Lane. Food for Thought is grateful that the trust is happy for the second Mobile Larder to be based there.

The start date for the second larder will be Wednesday, June 7 – the larder will be on-site from 9.30am- 10.30am.

Food for Thought hopes, in particular, to support the more elderly of Swanage’s residents, as well as those who are housebound or working at the time the larder is open, through delivering food direct to their homes.

Food for Thought welcomes all those who would like to access the second larder – and all those who might like to help as volunteers, either helping give out food or making deliveries.

Food for Thought Purbeck is making a difference.

Contact details for Debby Monkhouse are cllr monkhouse@swanage councillors.uk

She looks forward to hearing from you!

Moving visit to children’s hospice

LAST month I was delighted to welcome the Liberal Democrat Leader, Sir Ed Davey, to Dorset for a visit to Julia’s House Children’s Hospice.

Ed was a young carer for his parents and, after they died, for his grandmother, and has a son with severe disabilities. I worked for another Dorset disability charity that provides respite and day care, so I know families who use its services and have seen their struggles.

After a tour of its stunning facilities, including a chance to have a play with the sensory toys, we chatted with chief executive Martin Edwards and parent ambassador Emma Jerram about their hopes for the future.

We learned about the impact – physically and emotionally – on families of providing care around the clock and how

mothers of children with life-limiting conditions have increased risk of heart problems as well as increased mental ill health.

Family breakdown is also common in families who have to deal not only with the emotional challenges of caring for their child but the financial struggles.

It was so lovely to see photos of the founders, Mike Wise, a local Liberal Democrat councillor, and Julia Perks – the nurse whose vision he was able to deliver – in the hallway and to understand how minor changes in the way respite is prioritised and delivered can make such a difference to families.

So many of us will be family carers, sometimes referred to as unpaid carers, in our lives.

Whether for parents, partners or tragically for a child with complex needs or a lifelimiting condition, there is little recognition of the impact across every part of life, and this is why the Liberal Democrats continue to talk about this forgotten area of work.

We are pleased that Government has recognised the need for a Department of Health and Social Care, but it is now time to deliver real change and put care on a much stronger footing. It makes financial sense, too. Care in communities is less expensive than a hospital bed but there are wider financial benefits. Respite could mean parents can stay in employment and stay healthier.

Parents and siblings who are

well, can not only work and spend money in the economy, but also have a smaller burden on the health service. We need a joined-up approach by Government around the fiscal benefits of a healthier, more active population, whether it’s in improving homes and fuel poverty to reduce damp-related illness, improving air quality to reduce asthma or providing respite for carers.

I was deeply moved by our visit, and I know Ed was too, and I am confident that whatever policies the Liberal Democrats prepare for the next election manifesto the needs of those who provide care –whether as part of their job or through their family life – will be integral.

VIKKI SLADE Lib Dem Prospective Parliamentary Candidate

Mid Dorset & North Poole

CHRIS BRADEY Chair, Swanage & Rural Purbeck Labour Party

Chris Bradey

Vikki Slade

Grants on offer to community groups

GRANTS of up to £5,000 are available for projects that bring communities across Dorset together.

Anyone looking to kickstart a new project that will make a difference for people in the community can apply in round 5 of the Community and Culture Project Fund.

The grants, which are managed by Dorset Council, welcome applications for projects and events for community, arts, accredited museums, heritage, sport, youth, play and physical activity.

Last year the grants supported a wide range of local projects including arts and crafts, physical activities, sports clubs, warm spaces, foodbanks, lunch clubs and cost of living support for childcare places.

Not-for-profit groups who meet funding criteria are welcome to apply for the grant,

which can fund up to £5,000 towards a project that will have a social impact and support local communities and hard-toreach groups.

A total of £54,420 was awarded to heritage, museums, and arts organisations across the county last year.

In addition, 27 grants worth a total of £64,970 were awarded to voluntary and community organisations that work with disadvantaged, under served and marginalized communities in the Dorset council area.

Cllr Laura Beddow, Cabinet member for Culture, Communities and Customer Services, said: “I am very pleased we can provide these small but vital grants to promote a wide range of cultural, heritage and physical activities that enrich the lives of people who live and work in Dorset.

“The scheme has been a real

success story over the past couple of years with many exciting projects being supported by the grants to build and develop our communities.

“We look forward to making many new grant awards in the coming months.”

The closing date for

applications is Sunday, July 7, at midnight and decision letters will be sent to all applicants at the end of July.

Visit www.dorsetcouncil.gov. uk/-/community-and-cultureproject-fund for more details and to submit a grant application.

Business leader cautiously upbeat

A NATIONAL business leader has predicted a ‘choppy’ yet positive year ahead.

Shevaun Haviland, director general of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), was speaking at Dorset Chamber’s annual president’s lunch.

Delivering the keynote speech, she said: “It’s probably going to be a choppy year ahead but the indicators are looking positive.

“Confidence is heading in the right direction and we look forward to supporting and helping you in the coming months.

“Please do seize the opportunities afforded to you by the chamber and its team.

“Together we are stronger and we can really make a difference to the community and society.”

The event, attended by more than 150 guests, also saw the official launch of the Dorset Business Festival.

Bookings for the festival in October –including entries for the Dorset Business Festival Awards – opened this month.

Dorset Chamber president Caron Khan thanked the BCC director general for attending the event at The Italian Villa in

Poole.

She also hailed the ‘outstanding and incredible contribution’ of former Dorset Chamber president Liz Willingham who was presented with a long service award.

Ian Girling, chamber chief executive, launched the Dorset Business Festival with Grant Esterhuizen from Premier Festival Partner Lester Aldridge solicitors.

The three-day celebration of business will include a conference, exhibition and awards from October 10 to 12 in Bournemouth.

The conference will have a ‘future of business’ focus with four main themes: technology, Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance (ESG); place; and people.

The festival awards will be free to enter in 10 categories and open to all businesses in the county whether chamber members or not.

The Festival Partners are Dorset Council, Blue Sky Financial Planning, Bournemouth and Poole College, the Dolphin in Poole and YMCA Bournemouth.

Ian Girling, Dorset Chamber chief executive; Caron Khan, president, and Shevaun Haviland, BCC director general PHOTO: Dorset Chamber

New faces at village trust

By dorsetbiznews.co.uk

THE Talbot Village Trust, which provides £1 million in grants each year to charities working to improve the quality of life for residents across south-east Dorset, has five new members.

Martha Searle, Ali Shah, Beverley Cross, Louise Jones and Jon Beal have been appointed across grants, community engagement, finance, communications and administration of the trust.

The new appointments will support chief executive officer Caroline Cooban and trustees to further strengthen work done by the trust, which is the legacy of two sisters who founded Talbot Village in the mid-19th century as a reaction to rural poverty, with local charities and not-forprofit organisations.

Caroline said: “I’m incredibly pleased to welcome a new group of staff to the Talbot Village trust, a significant step designed to increase the trust’s presence across all charitable activities.

“The new professional roles provide us with an invaluable wealth of knowledge, skills and experience, as we continue to strengthen our connections with and support of communities across south-east Dorset.

“The dedicated team is based at Slades Park Pavilion, with a remit including several important functions, enhancing our responsiveness to the needs of the communities we serve, and further elevating the value of support we offer to vital services and causes.”

Louise Jones has been appointed as grants manager. Louise has experience in charity front line services, fundraising, impact measurement and due diligence, and will support prospective grant holders to make a difference with their

funds, as well as monitor the impact of the trust’s grantgiving.

Martha Searle joins as community and engagement lead to build long-term relationships, with a particular focus on minorities, and those most marginalised in society, as well as stakeholders working on voluntary and community projects. Martha is an experienced community facilitator, having a background as a BCP community development worker and working closely with third sector organisations.

Ali Shah has been appointed as part-time finance manager and is a qualified accountant with significant financial experience in the social housing sector, developed during his auditing career with a big four accountancy firm. Ali will be responsible for supporting the financial management of the trust and to assist the charity’s trustees with decision making.

Jon Beal joinsv as communications manager with more than seven years’ experience working in communications. In his new role Jon, who was previously at Arts University Bournemouth, will be responsible for devising and delivering communications plans to help promote the trust’s charitable purpose and the impact of its work to support worthy causes.

Beverley Cross has been appointed as executive assistant and prior to joining was an executive PA to the chief executive at a local charity supporting adults with learning disabilities. Beverley will be responsible for essential administrative support and workflow across the office.

Nicholas Ashley-Cooper, chairman of Talbot Village trust, said: “A hugely warm welcome

to Jon, Martha, Ali, Louise and Beverley.

“These roles will ensure that the charity continues the exceptional work of its founders, the Talbot sisters, to address and tackle issues faced

by communities in south-east Dorset, making a substantial difference to their lives and helping people live well.”

Applicants wishing to apply for funding can visit talbotvillagetrust.org.

Martha Searle, Ali Shah, Beverley Cross, Chief Executive Officer Caroline Cooban, Louise Jones, Jon Beal PHOTO: Talbot Village trust

Arrow words Wordsearch

Words of Japanese Origin

Crossword

Across 1 Wheat, eg (5)

4 Functioning (6)

10 Depot (9)

11 Medical help, as in ‘first ___’ (3)

12 Personality, colloquially (5)

13 Tall, cylindrical headwear (3,3)

14 Constraint (11)

18 Noble (6)

20 A cook’s protective garment (5)

23 Floor covering (3)

24 Misleading statement (4-5)

25 Want (6)

26 Sources of wood (5)

Down

2 In the countryside (5)

3 Repress (7)

5 Expensive (5)

6 Bluster (7)

7 Circular movement of water (4)

8 Once and then again (5)

9 Post-performance appearance (7,4)

15 Appears (7)

15 Appears (7)

16 Farm vehicle (7)

16 Farm vehicle (7)

17 Egyptian crosses (5)

17 Egyptian crosses (5)

19 Second (5)

19 Second (5)

21 Path (5)

21 Path (5)

22 Stepped (4)

22 Stepped (4)

Sudoku 9 1 5 1 2 4 9 7 8 4 6 5 4 9 5 8 7 7 8 6 2 1 8 2 3 6 3 4 1 7 9 7 6

Brain chain

Dairy’s a no-no if you have a cold

By Fiona Chapman

I HAVE just been having lunch with my uncle who suffers from sleep apnoea, which is a horrible complaint meaning you wake in the night having stopped breathing. He also has a cold which is making it all much worse and he is getting very little sleep. With good sleep, your body can heal and repair, so not having any not only makes him feel terrible but it becomes a vicious circle.

As I was watching him ladle cream onto his pudding, I gave him the most awful shock by shouting NO and almost physically wrenching the plate from him. If you have a cold, hay-fever, flu, cough, anything where mucous is being produced, dairy is an absolute no-no. It is mucous inducing and will only exacerbate the situation.

My poor uncle loves his cream and his cheese, so was bitterly disappointed to be told

to give it all up – I was backed up by his Australian granddaughter who confirmed that it is a big thing in Australia – no dairy with a cold.

I will be mixing up a herbal concoction for my uncle to try and tackle the cold, to help his lungs and to tighten up the membranes that have become loose and so close, which stops his breathing. But it is no good my just doing a herbal mixture if he does not change his

Why the first step is the hardest and

By Alice Johnsen

IT’S a sensation we’re probably all familiar with. The sinking pit in the stomach, the distraction, the restlessness. You’ve got a job ahead of you and you’re pretty sure you’re not going to enjoy it. You don’t want to do it. In fact, you want to do anything but ‘it’.

The time spent avoiding the task becomes significantly greater than the time spent, eventually, on the task itself. It’s at this point the emotional side of our brain is running the show. Rather than applying logic and reason, our mind is drip feeding us a stream of messages about

how the task we should be doing is going to be really hard, we don’t want to do it, our life is on hold because of this task and so on. The effect of not doing this thing is completely overshadowing its value and content.

So, when this happens, the best thing to do is just start, because by just starting, we shift our focus from not wanting to do something to the thing itself. But that’s not always easy. Sometimes, we have got into such a mental spin the task before us takes on a form that far outweighs its own pay grade. Time to break this down. If you

create small steps that take you into the task gently and easily, you will almost certainly find you get swept up in just doing it and spending less time thinking

why you don’t want to do it. Whatever it is.

The method of breaking things down into steps is really useful. It can be applied to so

Rachel Ciantar

lifestyle, even if it is just for a while when he is ill.

This applies to us all. When we are well, we can tolerate and deal with foods, drinks and chemicals that are not so good for us – although I would always recommend moderation. When we are ill, however, it is vitally important to really give our body a chance to heal and restore itself. We should stop any toxins going in, alcohol, coffee, fizzy drinks, processed foods, dairy, sugar and often gluten and just eat lightly steamed vegetables.

Nutritionists talk about a rainbow of food, which is what we should have on our plates as all coloured foods from carrots, tomatoes, peppers, sprouts, spinach, kale and, of course, fruit, give us the vitamins and minerals our body needs to heal and repair.

The old saying of ‘feed a cold and starve a fever’ has got a bit muddled. It should be, IF you feed a cold, you will need to starve a fever.

n Fiona Chapman is a Naturopathic Herbalist (Pellyfiona@gmail.com)

most important

many things. As long as each step takes you in the right direction, it doesn’t matter how small it is or how many steps there are.

If that creates a steady feeling of achievement and success that encourages you to carry on, it’s a good method for you to use, whether you’re revising for exams, building up a fitness programme, writing a business plan, learning a new language – whatever.

wIf it works for you for one thing, chances are it will work for you for most things, and you won’t feel the need to put things off so much.

But don’t be put off if this doesn’t work straight away. As will all new habits, they can only become habits by repetition and familiarity. There are no overnight quick fixes!

n Alice Johnsen is a life coach. Phone: 07961 080513; visit www.alicejohnsen.co.uk

Daisy lands medals at regional champs

YOUNG Swanage swimmer

Daisy Kirkpatrick has been winning more medals and moving up the rankings for her age group.

The 11-year-old qualified to compete in 13 events at the Swim England South West regional championship after taking part in the Dorset County Championship in January and two Level 1 competitions.

The regional championship is open to swimmers from Dorset, Somerset, Devon, Cornwall, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire with the first of two two-day events at Millfield School in Street in April and the second coming up at Bristol Hengrove pool in mid-May.

At Millfield, in the 200m Individual Medley – one length of butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke and front crawl –she smashed two seconds off her personal best time to secure a place in the final, where she dropped another half a second

SWIMMING

to take the silver medal.

In the 100m Butterfly, Daisy dropped time on her personal best in the heat to secure her place in the final, where she gained the bronze medal.

Daisy was competing for the first time at a regional level championship and her achievements are especially notable as the events at Millfield and Bristol are in 50m pools, a facility not available in Dorset.

Daisy said: “It’s so different competing in a 50m pool – it’s so much harder than the 25m pools I train in at Canford and Littledown five times a week. You don’t have all the walls and turns to help you, it’s a different level of endurance needed.”

Daisy, who competes in the under 12 category and is coached by Luke Dormer, will be travelling to Bristol for the second part of the championship.

Ladies on tournament learning curve

FOOTBALL

SWANAGE Ladies Walking Football Club had their first foray into tournament football when Bournemouth hosted Swanage and teams from Southampton and Portsmouth at Littledown.

Swanage’s first game against Bournemouth ended in a 3-0 loss as the team struggled with the physicality of the opposition and a much larger pitch than they were used to.

They started to get into their stride in the second game against Portsmouth and in a very close match lost 1-0.

Swanage really settled into their game against Southampton running out 3-1 winners. Two superb strikes from Vicky Perry and a third from captain Jan Withers after some neat passing meant the team finished the day on a high.

It was a very good afternoon with some excellent quality walking football hosted well by Bournemouth Ladies.

Ladies’ walking football is aimed at the 40-plus age group, although most clubs will

accept younger players unable to play in the normal game. There is no upper age limit – Swanage have one regular player over 70. The game is great for fitness, core strength, mental health and camaraderie.

Anyone who would like to try it should go along to Swanage FC on a Tuesday at 6.30pm – no previous experience necessary.

For more information phone Nick on 07745 907509.

Swanage youngster Daisy Kirkpatrick with coach Luke Dormer

In the picture (from left, back) manager/coach Nick Surman, Caroline Abbot, Tasha Ramsay, Marion Ingerson-Heart, Bev Parker, Linda Hughes. Front, Karen Straw, Vicky Perry, Belinda Tatchell, Jan Withers (captain).

Seafood festival cancelled, organisers say not viable in ‘present conditions’

POOLE Seafood Festival has been called off.

Organiser Dorset Food Festivals said the event, scheduled for June 2 to 4, had been cancelled as it was not viable ‘under present conditions’.

“Unfortunately, Poole Seafood Festival will not take place this year,” a spokesperson said.

“After much consideration it has become clear that it is not possible to deliver a viable festival under present conditions, so sadly we will not be taking up the option to run the event for the third year of the tender.

“For the last two years, we have hosted Dorset’s only free seafood festival on Poole Quay.

“Despite enormous challenges as we came out of Covid, we still managed to put on a great day out with food, drink and music.

“We have invested a lot of time and money in this event and we are saddened that it is not possible to continue this into the future.”

A series of other events organised by the company, including the Ultimate Festivals at Upton Country Park (May 26 to 28) and the Poole Harbour Festival (July 29 to 30), are not affected, they said.

After the announcement, a BCP Council spokesperson said: “Despite working directly with the contractor, they have made the decision to withdraw from the tender and not organise the

seafood festival this year.

“Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council is looking at other events that could take

place this summer and will be engaging with Poole Quay’s fantastic business community about these ideas soon.”

Poole Seafood Festival has run for the past two years - but not in 2023. Picture: Dorset Food Festivals

Tribute treat for Dire Straits fans

By Lorraine Gibson

QUESTION: Which band’s single was the first ever video played on the MTV music channel?

Dire Straits fans, of course, would have answered that straight away.

They’ll also want do the walk of life to the Tivoli Theatre in Wimborne and catch Money For Nothing, a highlyrated tribute to the band that gave the world instant rock classics like Brothers in Arms and Sultans of Swing.

The show features all the hits from Dire Straits’ first ever single Sultans of Swing to their last single in 1992, The Bug, plus versions from On the Night and Live @ The BBC.

Money for Nothing opened

the show for the legendary Roy Wood on part of his Theatre Tour and performed a sell-out concert in India, headlining at one of Bangalore’s largest amphitheatres.

Dire Straits have sold more than 120 million albums worldwide with their best

seller, Brothers in Arms, notching up more than 30 million to become the fourth best-selling album in UK chart history.

Money for Nothing are at the Tivoli Theatre on Friday, May 26, online tickets £26.40, box office, £24.

THE village green at Martinstown is the place to be for a fun dog show next month.

The show will have all the usual classes for pedigrees, veterans, terriers, rescues, crossbreeds and Heinz 57 varieties.

And the fun classes will include best condition, waggiest tail, child handlers, egg-and-spoon race, hoop race and fancy dress.

The event is on Saturday, June 17, with entries taken from noon and classes beginning at 2pm.

The judges from Park House Pets have generously provided prizes, and visitors will be treated to hints and tips on training and dog behaviour during a break in the show.

Plenty of parking is available in a nearby field and refreshments will be on offer in the village hall.

For more details phone 07813 196958 or just turn up on the day.

MONEY FOR NOTHING Friday 26th May 7.30pm. Tickets £24

JOHN WICK CHAPTER 4 (15)

THE UNLIKELY PILGRIMAGE OF HAROLD FRY (12A)

22nd, 23rd, 29th & 30th May 7.30pm Matinees 24th & 31st (time tbc)

1.30pm Tickets Adult: £8.00 evening/£7.00 matinee Child under 16: £6.00

Thursday 1st June 7.30pm

Show Of Hands – Songs of the People Michael Wood with special guest Kirsty Merryn

Tickets £35 / £30 Under 21’s

Money for Nothing are coming to the Tivoli Theatre in Wimborne

Ready, steady reggae!

THREE days of reggae and big names are coming to Langton Matravers this summer with the Wilkswood Reggae Festival.

Veteran reggae singer Horace Andy will headline the event, which will see reggae legends rub shoulders with upcoming artists and DJs from the UK and abroad.

More than 50 acts will perform across three stages at Wilkswood Farm from Friday to Sunday, July 21-23.

Organiser Dave Mountjoy said: “Each year we look to improve on the previous year’s line-up – and we think we’ve managed that again.”

Horace Andy, now a youthful 72, is one of the most influential and distinctive voices of reggae, and his 2022 album Midnight Rocker made the top ten in all the end-of-year critics’ awards.

He began recording in the late 1960s and in the 1990s contributed to all five albums by trip-hop pioneers Massive Attack.

Other headliners on the main stage include Hollie Cook, once of new wave icons The Slits and daughter of Sex Pistols drummer Paul, and Kiko Bun with his unique blend of reggae and hip hop.

Roots Daughters, an allfemale showcase featuring Sista Aisha, Awa Fall and Redhead QI, and Evidence Music collective featuring Brother Culture will also be in the spotlight.

The Jah Spirit Sound System arena will feature a Tribute to Jah Shaka, Aba Shanti-I and Channel One, making rare appearances outside of street carnivals, to contribute to a ‘Notting-Hill-by-the-Sea’ vibe.

Elsewhere Bass Choir with MC Crazy D, poet Raymond Antrobus and a multitude of sound systems, DJs and producers will perform alongside acoustic and spoken

word acts on the outdoor Bang Mix Stage.

The festival also offers a bonus day on Thursday, July 20, for featuring a late night DJ set by Leeds soundsystem Iration Steppas.

Dave Mountjoy added: “The success of Horace Andy’s Midnight Rocker album meant we had to pull out the stops, but we were determined he should be one of our headliners this year. Alongside Hollie Cook, Kiko Bun and the Roots Daughters we have some of the finest live reggae acts in the

UK. And, in Aba Shanti-I, Channel One and Iration Steppas, we’ve got some of the best UK sound systems to really contribute to that whole carnival vibe.”

Both the Main Stage and the Soundsystem Arena are under cover, and the festival will have a chill-out zone, street food stalls – including a Jamaican jerk barbecue, wood-fired pizza and vegetarian and vegan options, a main bar and merchandise stalls.

Entertainment for youngsters includes a dedicated children’s

field and a wooded clearing featuring storytelling, nature trails and music. Free workshops in beatboxing, urban dance and rap performance will also be held.

The festival is limited to a capacity of 2,500, so organisers say the event is relaxed and intimate, and perfect for families with young children or those who do not like huge crowds.

For tickets, which include camping and parking for three nights, visit www.

wilkswoodreggae.com/tickets/

Hollie Cook PHOTO: Fabrice Bourgelle. Horace Andy is headlining the festival PHOTO: Alistair McVeigh

Museum showcases a relic of wartime

A SCULPTURE of top Nazi Hermann Goring’s head with two bullet holes in it is attracting attention at Dorset’s Tank Museum after featuring in a book.

The metal model of the Luftwaffe leader was shot by either Russians or Americans at the end of the Second World War and was probably brought back to Blighty by someone from the Royal Tank Regiment.

It was donated to the museum in Bovington in 1957 and is featured in a recently released book that marks the visitor attraction’s centenary: The Tank Museum in 100 Objects.

The book shows items especially selected by curator David Willey and is already proving popular.

The sculpture of Goring’s

Tribute time on holiday weekend

TRIBUTE acts galore are coming to Upton Country Park over two nights on the Spring Bank Holiday weekend.

George Michael tribute Wayne Dilks and ABBA

Arrival UK will be taking a break from their theatre touring schedules to headline Legends Night on Friday, May 26, with Queen tribute Flash also performing.

Oasis tribute Oasiss headline an Indie/Rock night on Saturday, May 27, with Foo Fighters tribute Foo Fakers, the ever-popular Stereoironics, Really Hot Chilli Peppers, The Killerz and a kicking Kings of Leon tribute supporting.

“These acts are the best in the business – it’s a fantasy Glastonbury line up performed by the finest tributes there are,”

head was displayed in Berlin through the war – part of the cult of the personality encouraged by the Nazi party.

It now has bullet holes between the eyes and just below the nose – summing up what the victors felt about their Nazi foe.

David Willey said: “The Tank Museum’s mission has always been to tell the story of tanks and the people that served in them.

“I’ve put together a book detailing some of – what I find to be – the most interesting items in our collection that tell these stories.

“One of those is the head of

Goring with bullet holes in it. There are two stories about who shot it – but it was either Russians or Americans.

“Disfiguring portraits of enemies has a long tradition going back to ancient Egypt and Rome – and more recently we watched as statues of Saddam Hussain were toppled after his defeat.

“Our Second World War exhibition in which this object is a part is running alongside our new exhibition called ‘Tanks for the memories: The Tank in popular culture’.”

Hermann Goring was put on trial at Nuremberg at the end of the war and found guilty of four charges including war crimes. He was sentenced to hang but cheated the noose by taking

cyanide the day before and dying on St George’s Day, 1945.

The Tank Museum has amassed more than 100,000 collection items since it was founded in 1923.

David added: “Our extensive collection goes much further than just tanks, with medals, uniforms, weapons, photographs and art all playing a huge part in helping our audience to understand the history of tanks and tank warfare.”

THE Last Inklings, Leonardo MacKenzie and David Hoyland, accomplished multiinstrumentalists with a solid folk background, are set to perform at Lighthouse Poole.

The band’s innovative sound crosses genres, and is centred around cello mandolin and vocal harmony, layered with guitar, piano, strings, synths and percussion.

Their songs have a modern flavour rich with imagery and narrative.

said Ultimate Festivals director Ben Dyas.

“Everyone is welcome to bring their own food and drink and soak up an amazing line up of international chart-topping hits at family-friendly ticket prices.

“And what better backdrop is there than the idyllic setting on the front lawn of the

Harbour?”

A third night of music follows on Sunday, May 28, when number one original artists Blue, East 17 and Artful Dodger top the bill at the Ultimate 00s & 90s Festival.

For full details visit www. ultimate-festivals.com.

The Last Inklings released their debut album The Impossible Wild in October 2021 and it went on to receive the Fatea Magazine 2021 Debut Album of the Year Award.

Bournemouth-based singersongwriter Alex Beds will open the show.

The concert is on Friday, May 19, at 8pm – for tickets and more information phone 01202 280000 or visit www. lighthousepoole.co.uk.

Sculpture of Hermann Goring’s head – with bullet holes

magnificent Georgian Upton House on the shores of Poole

George Michael tribute Wayne Dilks is at Upton Country Park

Learn something new this summer

FANCY doing something different this summer? Then East Dorset Heritage Trust, based at Allendale House in Wimborne, may have just the thing.

The educational charity has just put the finishing touches to its new programme of events and courses and has lots of interesting things to do.

A programme of talks includes The Story of Mary Shelley, The Romans at Lake Farm and the Special Operations Executive.

Coach trips are on offer to West Horsely Place – where

the BBC’s Ghosts is filmed – Painshill Gardens, West Woodhay House and Crofton Beam Engines, plus a trip to garden experts Nicholsons and Rousham House in Oxfordshire.

Guided walks around Boscombe Chine and Milford on Sea, and through the stunning countryside of Cranborne Chase are also available.

Those who enjoy crafts can try their hand at macrame, lino printing and willow weaving, plus pottery throwing and life drawing courses are planned.

Floristry workshops provide the chance to learn how to create hand-tied bouquets and vase arrangements, and there’s an evening aromatherapy course.

And courses in modern languages – Italian, French and Spanish – Art History, Creative Writing and even Archaeology are on offer, along with one-to-one IT sessions.

For more information call in to Allendale House, email info@edht.org.uk, visit www. edht.org.uk or phone 01202 888992.

Age, family, fraud and more – it’s all grist to Griff’s mill

By Lorraine Gibson

GRIFF Rhys Jones is in the mood for a good old rant – and he’s coming to the Tivoli Theatre in Wimborne.

Back on the road with his new stand-up tour, The Cat’s Pyjamas, the erudite entertainer is bursting with funny observations and comical stories.

There’s no theme, since the show always varies as he rambles on stuff like the developing national permacrisis. Age. Family. Fraud. Nostalgia. The TikTok generation. Crocodile smuggling and noodling in Australia.

Travel, dogs, hotels, drink and midnight trains – they’re all there.

And he’s ready to take questions from the audience, so prepare a cracker, just in case you get the chance to join in.

The Cats Pyjamas follows his last tour, which saw him play to capacity crowds across the UK, Australia and New Zealand.

Griff Rhys Jones is appearing at the Tivoli Theatre on Sunday, May 21, at 7pm and tickets are from £24.

Questions of composition

ENTER a gallery and scan the room. It doesn’t matter how cleverly and convincingly a painting has been rendered – the composition must feel ‘right’.

In an exhibition at The Gallery Upstairs, Upton Country Park, celebrating the importance of composition, members of Poole & East Dorset Art Society (PEDAS) create artworks for ‘Equilibrium’ a project set by the group’s new artist patron, Helen Talbot.

Helen said: “Composition refers to the arrangement of shapes, colour and tones within a specified area to create balance within the design.

“In a painting or drawing the ability to recognise a good composition is often an instinctive reaction to whether it looks right or wrong.

“Members have been encouraged to use the ‘rule of thirds’.”

The exhibition runs until Monday, May 22, and is open 10am-5pm.

DORSET writers and poets are invited to enter all forms of poetry, flash fiction, short stories and even novellas up to 10,000 words for The Paul Cave Prize for Literature.

Prizes are: Best Novella –£100; Best Short Story – £50; Best Poem – £25; Best Flash Fiction – £25. Entries close on September 30.

More information is available at www. tsaunderspubs.weebly.com/ the-paul-cave-prize-forliterature

Liz Magee’s painting Harry Paye Day acrylic on canvas

Griff Rhys Jones is bringing his

Spotlight Diary

purbeckgazette.co.uk

in association with: Karl’s Kabs – 07751 769833

Diary entries are £6 plus VAT per entry, per month. The deadline for 15th May is NOON on 1st May. Call Lizzie Wilmot on 01963 400186 or email lizzie@blackmorevale.net

KEY: * = Start time not known or n/a; Ffi = for further information; Sw = Swanage; Wm = Wareham; VH = Village Hall, Telephone code 01929 unless otherwise stated.

MAY 2023

Please call prior to attending events listed to ensure they are still on.

MONDAY

18:00 - SWANAGE TENNIS CLUB at Beach Gardens, Swanage. Free cardio tennis taster. Till 7pm.

19:30 - WAREHAM CHORAL SOCIETY. Lady St.Mary Church, Wm. Till 9.30. New singers always welcome. 01202 632678. warehamchoral@gmail.com

19:45 - LATIN AMERICAN & BALLROOM DANCE (for couples) starting in June at The Swanage School. We will start with the Waltz. Call : Purbeck dance 07518 056149

WEDNESDAY

12:10- BEGINNERS MODERN LINE DANCE at St. Edwards hall, Swanage. Come and try a FREE CLASS. Call: Purbeck dance 07518 056149

07714 289408

Tracie Williams ~ Professional Celebrant

Offering a Bespoke Service

Personalising Your Ceremonies, Making Lasting Memories

Weddings & Vow Renewals | Birthdays & Anniversaries | Baby & Child

Naming Ceremonies | Celebrations of Life | Graduations

Any other ceremonies important to you and your loved ones.

Tel: 07379982487

Email: juneroseceremonies@gmail.com

Website: juneroseceremonies.co.uk

09:30 - SWANAGE TENNIS CLUB at Beach Gardens, Swanage. Free Matchplay taster session for prospective new members. First 3 sessions are free. Until 11am

09:30 -

10:30 -

MODERN LINE DANCE at The Scout hut, Wareham. Come and try a FREE CLASS. Call: Purbeck dance 07518 056149

LATIN AMERICAN & BALLROOM LINE DANCE (you dance solo) at The Scout hut Wareham - come and try a FREE CLASS.

Call : Purbeck dance 07518 056149

THURSDAY FRIDAY

09:30 - BALLROOM DANCE (for couples) starting in June at Corfe Castle Village hall.

Call : Purbeck dance 07518 056149

14:30 - YOUNGER4LONGER CHAIR-BASED EXERCISE in Wm United Reformed Church, Church St. with daisy chain fitness, 01929558139

Spotlight Diary - in association with: Karl’s Kabs

Event Services Events

PRELOVED SALE

Lots of clothes, bric a brac , toys & books. 20th May - 2pm - 4pm

Upwey & Broadway Memorial Hall DT3 5NG Donations for the heart foundation.

Advertise with us Call us

BOOKS HARDBACK, FOUNTAIN PENS, coins and stamps, costume jewellery. Cash paid. Tel Mr Jones 01202 733550

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