Purbeck Gazette 292

What’s inside this issue...

Swanage youngster Issac Blake

is crazy about fire engines – and now he’s written a children’s book with his gran, Dawn Reid.

ADVERTISING

Debi Thorne Advertising Sales Manager Debi.thorne@blackmorevale.net 07714 289409

Donna Garner Account Manager

Donna.garner@blackmorevale.net 07714 289408

Jane Toomer Senior Account Manager Jane.toomer@blackmorevale.net 07714 289411

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.

Phoenix Witt-Tower Classified Adverts adverts@blackmorevale.net 01963 400186

Lorraine Drake Distributor lorraine_drake@icloud.com 07850 529937

Opening Hours: Mon-Fri, 9am-5.30pm Book Online: purbeckgazette.co.uk

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.

(left)

Page 5

The Duke of Kent (above) visited The Tank Museum at Bovington to honour the service of the Royal Armoured Corps Page 7

Flower power coins in the cash for good causes

THE popular Dorset Sunflower Trail, which has raised tens of thousands of pounds for good causes over the last two years, will be open for a third season this summer at Maiden Castle Farm, on the outskirts of Dorchester.

The farm has raised £37,000 for charities since it started the trail in 2021 and this year 750,000 sunflower seeds have been planted to create two trails for visitors.

Last year’s proceeds were split between Ukraine’s Cherkasy Hospital and Dorset County Hospital’s Kingfisher children’s ward, which will use the money to develop outside space for the wellbeing of young patients.

Dorset County Hospital’s Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) will benefit this year with Maiden Castle Farm once again pledging to donate half the proceeds from ticket sales.

Dominic Sheehy, manager of Dorset County Hospital’s SCBU, said: “We are grateful and very excited to have been chosen to be supported by this event – we have lots of plans for the unit and take great pride in providing the best

possible facilities, services and care we can for our precious patients and their families.”

Dorchester Town Council, following a successful collaboration last year, will work closely with event organiser Hazel Hoskin to create a ‘Summer of Sunflowers’ for the town from mid-July.

Sunflower sculptures will be suspended high across South Street and a local artist will decorate the pavement with a temporary eco-friendly painted sunflower mural.

Local retailers will create sunflower-themed shop windows across Dorchester and Poundbury, while local eateries will tempt visitors with limited edition sunflower bakes, all helping to raise money for the good cause.

Children from neighbouring Prince of Wales School have

also got involved by making eco-friendly bird scarers to protect the crop.

The main event will happen in August at Maiden Castle Farm, when the sunflower crop is fully grown, and visitors will also be able to enjoy local ice creams, rest up at the cafe or take a picnic, and take home cut sunflowers or souvenirs from the Sunshine Shack.

sunflower trail is planted in a different field each year due to crop rotation. So, if you’ve visited before, then this year’s experience will be different again.

“The sunflower trail created on the farm will be a highlight for many people, especially the many thousands who have visited the attraction before.

“We are encouraging visitors to be eco-friendly and cycle to the trail, located on the Dorset Cycle Route 2, although the site offers free parking and is accessible to wheelchair users and pushchairs, weather permitting.

“We also plan to highlight the amazing positivity of the flowers on people’s well-being with pilates and yoga sessions available, in addition to the popular sundowner sessions.

“This event is an amazing backdrop to make some special memories with family and friends and enjoy nature at its best.”

Compiled by National Coastwatch Institution, Swanage

Solar & Tidal Predictions - Mar '23

Opening dates and times will be confirmed later. Tickets will be held at 2022 prices and will go on sale next month.

Organiser Hazel said: “The uniqueness of this major fundraising event is that the

To keep updated visit www. facebook.com/ MaidenCastleFarm and www. maidencastlefarm.co.uk

Swanage

Solar and Tidal Predictions - Feb'23

Solar & Tidal Predictions - Jan '23

Compiled by National Coastwatch Institution, Swanage

Peveril Ledge, Swanage

Solar & Tidal Predictions - July '23

Peveril Ledge, Swanage

Sunflower trail organiser Hazel Hoskin, of Maiden Castle Farm, is looking forwards to another year

Photo: BNPS

National Coastwatch – Eyes along the coast

50 years since Wrecks Act

IT’S been a busy couple of months for both stations.

We’ve had several busy bank holidays where we’ve welcomed visitors to the stations with ‘tea and cakes’ and ‘drinks from the hatch’. These days are extremely important to us as they provide us with a significant amount of the income needed to keep the stations running. Each NCI station is entirely self-funding and we rely on the generosity of the donations people make at these events to keep ourselves operational.

St Alban’s Head had its annual inspection in April, and I’m pleased to say that it passed with flying colours. Swanage is awaiting its inspection, which has been put back until the autumn as the station has recently appointed a new station manager, Martin Jones. Martin is well known in the maritime community in Swanage as he set up and ran Swanage Boat Charters, a role he has passed on to his son Bryan.

We’ve also had several incidents where our role as ‘eyes along the coast’ has come to the fore. They’ve ranged from a sinking vessel to a craft running out of fuel to a yacht aground. In each of these cases we’ve been asked by the coastguard to keep an eye on the casualties while the rescue services got to them. With the out of fuel vessel we were also able to direct the lifeboat quickly to the exact position.

In previous columns I’ve mentioned how we achieve our aim of being the ‘eyes along the coast’ by using a four-step method – spot, plot, record and respond. It’s a real feather in our cap that this ability to keep a visual watch has been recognised by Historic England as part of its management of the protected wrecks and ancient

By Nick Reed

monuments along our coasts.

THIS month sees the 50th anniversary of the passing of the Protection of Wrecks Act. The act allows the Secretary of State to designate wrecks as ‘protected wrecks’ based on their historical, archaeological or artistic significance. It came about to try and clarify confusion caused by wreck protection being covered by several different maritime laws. Typically, the designation of a protected wreck is given to wrecks that are over 100 years old. By its very nature, a shipwreck is a unique time capsule, and the protected sites hold fascinating and valuable information about ships, mercantile trade, the lives of sailors and passengers, and society.

The 1973 Act was designed to give protection to these important sites by creating a restricted area around a wreck to prevent uncontrolled interference and damage. This could be from activities such as unauthorised salvage, fishing and dredging. There are now 57 protected wrecks around the English coast and we’re lucky to have five around the Purbeck coast. They range in age from

the 13th century – the Mortar wreck – to the early 20th century – HMT Arfon. Martin and Bryan Jones were instrumental in finding and identifying this wreck, which led to its protection. We also have some sunken Second World War tanks that have been protected. As these are technically not wrecks, the tanks have been protected under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979.

Despite access being restricted, it is not illegal to dive a protected wreck. Access is managed by having designated licensees who control the access to the site. To dive a wreck, you must be a licensee in your own right or be under the direct supervision of a licensee.

DESPITE the law being in place for 50 years, damage and disturbance does still sadly occur. Only last year, the most complete Valentine tank in Poole Bay had its turret knocked off and

investigations are still being carried out by Dorset police to determine how the damage occurred. Following the incident, Historic England has provided grant funding to archaeologists from Bournemouth University to help mitigate the damage to the tanks.

Working closely with the Protected Wreck Association and archaeological contractors, MSDS Marine, Historic England has developed a method for licensees to assess how vulnerable the site they look after is to heritage crime. Two of the questions they are asked is if their site can be seen from an NCI station and whether they have been in contact with the station to ask them to monitor the site.

Feedback from MSDS Marine and Historic England has shown how critical the NCI is in helping safeguard the wrecks. The wider scheme was inspired by the relationship developed between the Southwest Maritime Archaeology Group and the NCI station at Prawle Point which has successfully stopped illegal activity on the Salcombe Cannon protected wreck site in the past.

This gives us an important role in safeguarding protected wrecks through our coastal surveillance activities. Our local knowledge means we are familiar with all the local dive vessels, and if we see an unusual vessel over a site we can pass on the information to the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, Historic England or the local police. It’s interesting that a specific condition for being a licensee for the HMT Arfon is that they must radio our station, at St Albans Head, to let them know when they are diving the site.

This is NCI St Alban’s and NCI Swanage helping protect our maritime heritage and listening on Channel 65, NCI out.

Protected wrecks around the Purbeck area

PHOTO: Historic England

Valentine Tank before damage with turret still on PHOTO: Paul Pettit

Issac loves fire engines –now he’s written a book!

YOUNG Issac Blake (pictured) from Swanage loves fire engines so much he is writing a series of children’s books about them.

The six-year-old’s first one, written and illustrated with his grandmother Dawn Reid, is called Yumpy the Unimog, based on an engine at Warehem Fire Station.

Both his father, Liam Blake, and his grandfather,

Tom Reid, are firefighters there. The books will show the variety of vehicles the fire service uses.

Half of the money from each book sold will go to the Firefighters Charity, which supports fire service personnel with their physical and mental health.

Yumpy The Unimog is available through Amazon at www.amazon.co.uk

Showcase for engravers

ENGRAVINGS by members of the South-West Guild of Glass Engravers, based on nature and the seaside, are on show at Durlston Country Park’s Fine Foundation Gallery.

Rob Page from the group said: “There is plenty to see and do at the park plus something to suit all tastes and ages in the

exhibition.”

The exhibition, which runs until Monday, July 3, and is open daily from 10.30am5pm is free to enter.

Visitors can try their hand at engraving and purchase items on sale.

For more information on events and exhibitions visit www.durlston.co.uk or phone 01929 424443.

5 day coach inclusive holidays to the unrivalled LIVERMEAD HOUSE HOTEL

Right on the sea front with MAGNIFICENT views of Torbay. Travel in style by luxury coach with

Pick up & return to your local joining point SWANAGE – WAREHAM

4 nights en suite accommodation with Dinner & full English breakfast

Sea view rooms available

Extensive menu, silver served to individual tables

Inclusive South Devon Excursions

Entertainment most evenings

Phone now on TORQUAY (01803) 290380 for your free brochure and details.

Marine Travel, Livermead House Hotel, TORQUAY, Devon, TQ2 6QJ.

www.livermead.com/ marine-travel-torquay

The Village Inn Ulwell

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

INDOOR POOL

Arrange a swim in the heated indoor pool

Ulwell Road, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 3DG

01929 427644

enq@ulwellcottagepark.co.uk

Embroiderer Jen on Coronation team

MASTER embroiderer Jen Goodwin, who is based in Wimborne, was a member of the team from the Royal School of Needlework responsible for several items at the recent Coronation.

The school’s embroidery studio managed the embroidery of the Anointing Screen and designed and hand-embroidered Queen Camilla’s Robe of Estate.

It also conserved the King’s Robe of State and Coronation Sword Belt originally worn by King George VI in 1937.

The embroidery studio also worked on the Throne Chairs and Chairs of Estate used at Westminster Abbey, including a newly embroidered coat of arms

for The Queen.

Jen started her journey in hand embroidery as an apprentice at the Royal School of Needlework at Hampton Court Palace, and has since spent 20 years as a tutor, author and designer.

Jen said: “I am very proud to be part of the team at the Royal School of Needlework to have worked on the Coronation – it has

meant the world to me.”

Jen also holds classes for embroiderers of all abilities in small groups at Walford Mill Crafts, where she teaches a wide variety of hand embroidery techniques.

Further details of Jen’s activities and other workshops and exhibitions can be found at www. walfordmillcrafts.co.uk.

Jen Goodwin (left) works on the Queen Consort’s Coat of Arms with the RSN’s Embroidery Studio team

PHOTO: Royal School of Needlework

Walford Mill tutor Jen Goodwin heading for the Coronation. PHOTO: Jen Goodwin

Draft seafront masterplan revealed

A NEW document outlining a future vision for Swanage’s seafront has been unveiled.

A draft of the Swanage Seafront Masterplan, developed by the Dorset Coast Forum (DFC) in partnership with the town council, was unveiled on Monday, June 19.

People can view the plan online and give their feedback via an online survey until July 10, while an in-person event took place at the Mowlem Theatre show bar on June 22.

The council and the DCF say the document is an ‘aspirational vision showing the potential of the seafront for the future’.

Town councillor Mike Bonfield, chair of the Swanage Seafront Masterplan working party, said: “We’re really pleased to launch the final stage of engagement on the Swanage Seafront Masterplan.

“It’s built on the views of residents and visitors and sets out a wide range of opportunities for us to work with partner organisations to improve our seafront and make it even better than it is now.”

masterplan has been drafted over the past few months following a public consultation process last year, which saw more than 1,000 people fill in a survey and attend engagement events.

Dubbed a ‘working practical strategy’, the plan aims to provide a vision to inform the potential of the seafront and help make decisions about its future, covering an area from Swanage Pier to the stream at Ocean Bay, including green spaces, seafront areas

and the beach.

Included in the report are the themes so far highlighted by the community as areas which could be improved.

They include pedestrianising Shore Road completely, increasing the diversity of food outlets, increasing seating areas and widening pavements.

Ideas in the document also include out-of-season events to attract visitors and improvements for sea swimmers, a growing pursuit.

The timeline for the creation and rollout of the document is:

• June 19–July 10: Draft Swanage Seafront Masterplan live

• July 10–24: Feedback reviewed from second round of public consultation

• July 24: If only minor edits needed, Swanage Seafront Masterplan to be signed off by Swanage Town Council

• July 24 onwards: Strategy taken forward by Swanage Town Council.

You can find more information on the Masterplan and have your say on the proposals at www.dorsetcoasthaveyoursay. co.uk/swanage-seafront-masterplan.

Garden restoration work in progress

WORK to restore the Victorian Kitchen Garden at Kingston Lacy country house near Wimborne has taken a step nearer completion.

Now the ornamental gates at the entrance to the five-acre garden at the National Trust property have been re-hung.

The garden was built in 1876 at a cost of £2,740 – about £180,000 today – and supplied the estate with fruit, vegetables and flowers.

It fell into disrepair in the 1960s and was completely overgrown when the Trust acquired Kingston Lacy in 1982.

The project to restore the garden began in 2018 with the restoration of one wing of the vinery – two other wings were beyond repair and had to be demolished.

Historic path networks were

reinstated, flower borders dug and two thatched summer houses restored.

Work was disrupted for two years during the Covid-19 pandemic but the past year has seen a series of initiatives completed that bring the garden to life.

In 2022 melons were grown for the first time in 40 years and

GOT A STORY? Then email

Protect your home from Care Costs & Inheritance Tax with a Living Trust.

A Living Trust, also known as a revocable trust or inter vivos trust, is a legal arrangement that allows you to protect your assets, including your home, from care costs and potential inheritance tax implications. Here are a few key points to consider:

1.Asset Protection: By transferring ownership of your home and other assets to a living trust, can help protect them from certain creditors and potential claims, including care costs.

2. Care Costs: Placing your main home into a living trust can ring fence the property from any potential future care costs. Thus, protecting your inheritance.

3. Inheritance Tax Planning: A living trust can be part of an estate planning strategy to minimize inheritance tax liability. By placing assets into a trust, they can be excluded from your taxable estate upon your passing, potentially reducing the amount of inheritance tax your beneficiaries would owe.

4. Revocable Nature: One of the advantages of a living trust is that it is revocable, meaning you can make changes to the trust or even revoke it entirely during your lifetime. This flexibility allows you to adapt to changing circumstances or wishes.

5. Trust Administration: When you establish a living trust, you typically designate yourself as the trustee, thus maintaining control over the assets and allowing you to continue using and managing them as you did before. You can also name successor trustees to take over the administration of the trust upon your incapacity or death.

The effectiveness of a living trust in achieving your specific goals will depend on your individual circumstances. Oakwood Wills offer a free consultation in the privacy of our own home. Tel 07832 331594 email: info@oakwoodwills.co.uk

peaches flourished alongside the original vines.

A 100-metre arch was installed and surrounded by a newly planted orchard of apples and pears that will provide blossom and fruit for future generations.

New interpretation in the bothy and outbuildings illustrate the life of a gardener in the first half of the 20th century, from stoking furnaces that heated the hot houses to holding open days for admiring visitors.

Matthew Goddard and Colm O’Gallachoir re-hang the gates at Kingston Lacy PHOTO: National Trust, Jay Williams

Restored gates re-hung at the entrance to the Kitchen Garden at Kingston Lacy PHOTO: National Trust, Chris Cooper

Hospice opens new office in heart of town

LEWIS-MANNING Hospice

Care has opened a new Swanage office hub which will be located at Swanage Methodist Church, with the support of the church.

Hospice chief executive Clare Gallie said: “We are so pleased to be opening this new office hub in the heart of Swanage, just off the High Street in the town.

“It will allow us to work even more closely with the local community and deliver and continue to grow our services in the area.

“It’s very much in line with our ‘Closer to Home’ strategy and will be pivotal to the service excellence of our

services that we offer.

“We are proud of the wide range of services we now offer in East Dorset and Purbeck:

n Breathlessness services at Wareham Hospital

n Day hospice – this runs on Tuesdays at Swanage Rugby Club

n Family Support – in patients’ homes

n Hospice at Home –providing social sits and respite sits for patients and their families

n Swanage retail shop – the shop opened in 2022 Director of clinical services Hayley Bonner said: “We very much welcome this opportunity and we are hugely grateful for

the kind support of Swanage Methodist Church, providing us with our office accommodation.

“We really enjoy being a part of the local communities in East Dorset and Purbeck and supporting patients and their families with life-limiting illnesses.

“Living with a life-limiting illness can be particularly isolating and it’s great to be

continually developing our ‘Closer to Home’ strategy.

“Our clinical nursing team will be based at the new hub and will be hot desking, along with our fundraising team.

“We are looking forward to working more in the local community and further supporting East Dorset and Purbeck’s patients and families.”

Lewis-Manning Hospice Care’s new base at Swanage Methodist Church will be used by the clinical nursing and fundraising teams

Charity in the shop window

THE Allison Campbell Trust (ACT) has raised its profile and funds with two recent events.

The charity, which works in Purbeck to help people who are terminally ill, held a meet and greet session at the Co-Op in Wareham with the help of the store’s member pioneer, Samantha James.

ACT is one of three local charities the Co-Op is supporting this year – it gives 2p for every £1 spent by customers who have selected ACT as their charity when certain Co-op products and services are purchased.

Co-op members have so far raised more than £600 for the charity via this membership scheme.

Sam has also been busy promoting ACT via social media.

Later the same day a family race night was held at the

Allstars Sports Bar at Purbeck Sports Centre.

When all the donations have been added up, plus a generous, anonymous top-up, it looks likely to have raised £1,000.

Organisers would like to thank M J Whites, which sponsored the event, race sponsors Thomas Rawson estate agents, Purbeck Self Storage, The Muddlecombe Men, Datec Communications, T J H Window Cleaning and Camelot Marquees.

It is hoped this event will be staged annually as a fun way to raise money for ACT.

The race night was the last of several events hosted over the last 12 months by Malcolm Russell, the outgoing 2023 Wareham Mayor, who selected ACT as the charity he would support during his term in office.

The charity is now able to fund six syringe drivers to Purbeck District Nurses.

Syringe pumps are often used in the last few weeks and days of a person’s life, but they can be useful for managing symptoms at any stage of illness.

For example, an individual might have antiemetics – antisickness medicines – in a

syringe pump to manage nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy.

It is hoped to be able to fund more syringe drivers in future, as well as continuing provision of personal care items.

The charity’s next fundraising event is Wareham Knobathon Championships at The Kings Arms, Wareham, on Sunday, July 30.

‘MEET AND GREET’ Samantha James, the local Co-op pioneer, and Helen Casey, from the Allison Campbell Trust, at the meet and greet event staged at Co-op Wareham

Country challenge sets sights on helping charity

A CHARITY challenge will see participants take aim at a large fundraising total for a worthy cause.

The annual Country Challenge, in aid of Dorset’s disability charity Diverse Abilities, returns for its fourth year at Purbeck Shooting School, near Wareham, sponsored by Town and Country Communications & IT Solutions.

Teams can take part in the event, on Friday, June 23, putting themselves to the test in a tournament involving five different activities; clay pigeon shooting, target rifles, archery, fly fishing and more.

Mariana Swain, events executive at Diverse Abilities, said: “This is a great teambuilding activity.

“Over the last few years, everyone has learnt new skills and had a great laugh along the way.

“It’s the perfect balance of competitive spirit and fun, so there’s no need to have tried any of these activities before.”

Lee Butler, managing director at Town and Country, added: “This is a great opportunity to support a local charity which does so much to support children and adults with disabilities in the Dorset area.

“We are looking forward to

getting involved and meeting the other teams who will be coming together for a day of challenges.”

Teams of four can enter from £500, which includes a bacon sandwich and lunch, and each activity will come with expert tuition to maximise chances of winning.

Money raised by the teams will help to provide vital support at the charity, including

days out for children, muchneeded equipment at Langside School, and activities for adults who attend The Beehive – the charity’s activity and day centre.

Purbeck Shooting School was established in 1955 and has been voted the Best Shooting Ground in the UK.

For more information, and to sign up, visit diverseabilities. org.uk/country-challenge.

The Country Challenge event at Purbeck Shooting School will help Diverse Abilities, which supports children and adults with disabilities

Royal visitor to The Tank Museum

HRH The Duke of Kent has visited Dorset to honour the sacrifice of the Royal Armoured Corps.

The Duke was at The Tank Museum, in Bovington, to open a new Royal Armoured Corps memorial and unveil a plaque to commemorate the venue’s centenary.

The new Memorial Room commemorates the sacrifice of almost 13,000 Royal Armoured Corps soldiers who have died in service since the Corps was founded in 1939.

“Today we commemorate the opening of the newly revitalised and re-invigorated Memorial Room, a place for reflection and remembrance of the sacrifice made by so many over the years,” the Duke said.

“As we formally dedicate this new Royal Armoured Corps Memorial, I am confident it will help us all to

continue our shared duty to never forget the sacrifices of these men. We will remember them.”

His Royal Highness, who is the patron of both The Tank Museum and the RAC Memorial Trust, was reunited with a Centurion tank, a vehicle he served in during his 20-year service in the Royal Scots Greys.

The Duke also met families of veterans honoured in the Memorial Room, including Sally Muldowney, who was given the Elizabeth Cross in 2010 in honour of her father, Trooper Cyril Adams, who died as a prisoner-of-war in Korea.

Sally said: “The Tank Museum has always been a

MOLE - WASP - RAT

special place for my family, and the new memorial is incredibly important to tell the individual stories of the soldiers, who, like my father, served with the Royal Armoured Corps.”

This year marks 100 years of The Tank Museum, which was founded shortly after the First World War.

A century later, it has become one of the world’s leading military museums and a popular Dorset visitor attraction.

The Duke of Kent visits the new Royal Armoured Corp Memorial Room and (inset) is reunited with the Centurion tank

Village set to see 20mph speed limit

A TOTAL of five towns and villages in Dorset could soon see 20mph speed limits introduced.

A new panel at Dorset Council has selected applications to move to the next stage in having the restriction introduced after inviting applications from town and parish councils in November last year.

While eight applications were considered by the new 20mph Panel Group, five have been selected for the next stage, which will see them assessed for funding and possibly put out to public consultation.

The successful applications are in:

• Bridport town centre

• Langton Matravers

• Wimborne town centre

• Winfrith Newburgh

• Pimperne

The panel said an application for Poundbury requires further investigation, while Fifehead Magdalen paused their application to consider an alternative application for a Speed Indicator Device. Fontmell Magna did not meet the required criteria, they added.

Applications made since March 1 up until August 31 will be considered later this year, with four further applications already in the pipeline, and another 38 areas expressing an interest.

Councillor Ray Bryan, Dorset Council’s portfolio holder for highways, travel and environment, said: “This initiative is in response to community concerns about road safety and healthy areas in towns and villages. We are committed to working with local towns and parishes to promote road safety. Limiting speeds to 20mph where people walk, live and play is one way people can benefit from streets that are healthier and safer.

“The process does not seek to set a 20mph limit as the default for all roads where people and vehicle traffic mix but it takes a consistent approach to dealing with applications, with a policy that is: implementable by considering national guidance; affordable, placing minimum strain on council budgets; and enforceable by the police.”

Ian Vaughan Arbuckle, representing Langton Matravers Parish Council, said: “We are delighted to have cleared the first and probably the most difficult hurdle in our quest to get a 20mph limit through the centre of the village: this is something residents have wanted for many years.

“The new limit will undoubtedly improve the quality of life for residents and make the centre of the village a far safer place.”

For more details, see the 20mph policy at www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/20-mile-perhour-mph-policy.

Residents interested in the implementation of new 20mph speed limits in their area should contact their town or parish council or local Dorset councillor.

Scammers stole phones as

CUSTOMERS at KFC and Starbucks in Poole were targeted by thieves with a scam that saw their mobile phones stolen.

Police in the town have warned people to be on their guard after two distraction thefts last month (May).

The first incident occurred at around 4.55pm on Wednesday, May 24 at KFC in the Dolphin Shopping Centre.

A Dorset Police spokesperson said it was reported the victim was eating at a table with a group of friends when a woman approached, who could not speak English.

“She handed the victim a piece of paper asking for assistance and when the paper was handed back, the woman left the restaurant,” they said.

“It was subsequently found that an iPhone, which was on

the table, had been stolen.”

A similar incident occurred between 4.50pm and 5.10pm on the same day at Starbucks, also in the Dolphin Shopping Centre, they added.

“A man approached the victim and distracted him with some paperwork, before stealing his mobile phone,” they said.

Police Community Support Investigator Adam Cleaver, of Poole police, said: “I would like to take this opportunity to alert the public to this type of distraction theft.

“We would advise that you do not leave mobile phones or valuable items in clear view while out in public and remain vigilant if strangers approach you.”

Anyone with information should contact Dorset Police on 101, quoting incident number 55230082743.

Ten top ‘green’ tips to help save you money

IT’S easy to be environmentally friendly and save a few pennies, says Armishaws Removals, which has come up with money-saving tips for homes and gardens.

e home of Country House opera in South West England featuring renowned soloists, a full orchestra and a large chorus of emerging young artists

Marquee bar | Picnics | Formal Dining

Jules Massenet LE ROI DE LAHORE

Sung in French with English surtitles

Conductor: Jeremy Carnall | Director: Ella Marchment 26, 27 July at 19.00 | Matinée: 29 July at 14.00

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

LE NOZZE DI FIGARO

Sung in Italian with English surtitles

Conductor: José Miguel Esandi | Director: Paul Carr 25, 28, 29 July at 19.00 | Matinée: 27 July at 14.00

Coade eatre, Bryanston, Blandford Forum

Box O ce: dorsetopera.com 07570 366 186

Telling It Like It Is

Everybody’s got to be somewhere...

FIRST and foremost, my thanks to every one of you who came to the public meeting with the Police and Crime Commissioner at Swanage Methodist Church earlier this month. It was good to see so many Swanage people turn out to question the police and let them know of their unhappiness with the lack of policing in Swanage. Yet, on the other hand, it was sad that such a meeting needed to be held. I sincerely hope we don’t have to do it again, but I’m not holding my breath. It’s a tribute to social media, the Purbeck Gazette and Purbeck Coast Radio that so many of you found out about it and came along.

I will not go into the many and varied problems brought to light that evening in great detail, as it’s been fully covered in the press and on the radio. It was clear that the PCC, David Sidwick, and his police officers were somewhat taken aback by the strength of public opinion and I think they’ve all gone away determined to make a difference. I didn’t say anything or ask any questions – my colleague Linda Welsh spoke admirably and laid down the groundwork for what followed. Most of which seemed to relate to the adverse effect a small number of unruly and violent teenagers were having on the town and on school-age children, along with parents and shopkeepers.

Mr Sidwick is determined to bring back ‘front of house’ policing to Swanage and increase police visibility – new Swanagebased officers are set to start shortly. The suggestion that this presence would start after the summer was roundly criticised – we want it NOW and that point was hammered home time and time again by speakers from the floor. Mr Sidwick made a number of commitments to the audience and it remains to be seen how and when those commitments are fulfilled. Rest assured, Mr Sidwick, we will be watching you and that any delay or deviation will be noted and if

By David Hollister

necessary highlighted not only in this column but on social media and my radio show.

More visibility means more ‘boots on the ground’ and maybe fewer sunny Facebook photos of police cars amid beautiful scenery. We want to be kept informed of arrests, property recovered, drugs confiscated and all the other factors that will return Swanage to a pleasant seaside town where young people are no longer terrorised by a few thugs and where we aren’t afraid to walk the streets late at night. To me, the sad thing is that the police and teachers know exactly who they are and are hamstrung by the intricacies of the law from stopping them.

It’s the job that isn’t started that takes longest to finish and this has been a great start to a period of change.

IHAVE been slowly working my way through the list of charities and organisations scheduled to benefit from Swanage Carnival 2023 and featuring at least one a week on my afternoon radio show in depth. I have been astonished and humbled by the number of people prepared to do things for their community and after so much time spent in talking and thinking about local policing problems, it’s been a refreshing tonic to find out about all the generous people and organisations who do so much for others.

ABARGE set to house migrants in Portland

Port has been leased by the Home Office. It will be the first time a berthed vessel will accommodate asylum seekers in the UK. The Home Office announced that the barge will be used to ‘reduce the unsustainable pressure on the UK’s asylum system and cut the cost to the taxpayer caused by the significant increase in Channel crossings’. According to a Home Office spokesperson, the barge

will reduce the reliance on expensive hotels and deliver a more orderly, cost effective and sustainable asylum accommodation system.

The barge, called the Bibby Stockholm, will be berthed in Portland Port and will accommodate about 500 single adult males while their asylum claims are processed. It will provide basic and functional accommodation, and healthcare provision, catering facilities and 24/7 security will be in place on board, to minimise disruption to local communities. It is not a ‘prison ship’ as it is so often locally referred to. It has been imposed upon Dorset by the Government which has done some kind of deal with the port authority over the heads of – and specifically against the wishes of – our elected Dorset Council.

In the words of the Famous Eccles, of Goon Show fame, ‘everybody’s got to be somewhere’ but I do find myself wondering why it is that so many of the ‘boat people’ are healthy young males living there ‘temporarily’ while their asylum claims are processed. And where, I ask, are the females? And why it is that so many of the facilities granted to asylum seekers don’t seem to be so easily available to local residents?

Our rotten and duplicitous Government says “the Bibby Stockholm will have the benefits of local services like waste services, access to transport, health, emergency services – all the things that local people have access to. The asylum seekers on board are not detained and will be free to come and go as they

wish.

“We will not elevate the interests of illegal migrants over the British people we are elected to serve”.

But isn’t that just what they are doing? What about the homeless ex-servicemen reduced to begging in shop doorways? What about children who go to school hungry and who won’t open their lunchboxes in front of the other children for fear of revealing they are empty? Does ‘basic healthcare’ include the dentistry denied in so many cases to our children and to those adults who simply cannot afford to go to the dentist? Look up ‘availability of NHS dentists’ and you will be horrified.

And in the overall scheme of things – after all, 1,000 ‘boat people’ arrived last weekend – 500 is just a token and a feeble attempt by the Government to try to reassure us it is addressing the migrant problem.

The Famous Eccles was right, ‘everybody’s got to be somewhere’. So here’s an idea. Drag the barge up the Thames and park it outside the Houses of Parliament. See how they like the idea of 500 male asylum seekers ‘free to come and go as they wish’ in the streets of London. Easy answer. Let them all in. Take away the principle of ‘registration’ and ‘work permits’ and in doing so, solve the huge staffing problem that’s killing so many small businesses and reducing public services to an unavailable and skeletal shadow of what they used to be.

In the words of Sir Paul McCartney: “Open the door and let ‘em in.”

Legal eagles saddle up for charity ride

LAW firm Coles Miller Solicitors, which has an office in Wimborne among others in Dorset, will have three representatives in next month’s annual Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride.

Managing partner Neil Andrews, associate solicitor Laura Hall and marketing director Nick Balchin will all be riding 48 miles in the event which starts and finishes at Corfe Mullen recreation ground.

This year’s ride is the seventh for Neil Andrews, head of the Commercial Department and Business Property Law.

Residential conveyancing solicitor Laura Hall is a keen cyclist who has ridden the Macmillan event four times already.

Triathlete Nick Balchin will be taking part in the Macmillan ride for the second year running.

In May he completed the 10th annual 100-mile RideLondon, an Olympic legacy event – and in June he rode 200 miles from London to Paris.

All three riders have special reasons for supporting Macmillan, having lost loved ones to cancer.

Nick Balchin said: “The

The soothing world of bee school

LOOKING into a busy beehive can have an incredibly peaceful effect – the viewer is transported into another world, where gentleness is a mark of respect.

Beekeeping has been proven to improve mental health and wellbeing, promote relaxation and reduce stress.

East Dorset Beekeepers Association (EDBKA) knows beekeeping is proven to be therapeutic for those with learning disabilities, who may sometimes experience higher levels of stress and anxiety.

Individuals can develop new skills, such as learning about bee behaviour and how to care for a hive.

This sits well with Sturts

SANDRA PALMERSNELLIN, of the East Dorset Beekeepers Association, is thrilled by her visit to adults with learning difficulties at Sturts Farm at Ferndown

Farm’s 90-acre working organic biodynamic farm ethics, drive for sustainability and environmentalism.

Ivor Kemp from EDBKA has been giving six training sessions to adults who have a variety of learning difficulties but want to become responsible stewards and farm bees.

This also develops life skills, such as teamwork and

Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride is an inspiring event that over the decades has raised large sums of money for a very worthy cause.

“We’re thoroughly looking forward to joining in the fun with the other riders as we all cycle together in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support.”

The Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride was founded in 1989 by Peter Smith-Nicholls after his fundraising ride from John

O’Groats to Land’s End. Since then, the annual event has raised more than £1.5 million.

This year’s ride on Sunday, July 2, will be the 35th of its kind and organisers hope it will raise more than £35,000.

Coles Miller Solicitors is sponsoring the ride for the fourth year running, giving more than £1,000 to Macmillan Cancer Support through its sponsorship.

As they opened and investigated the hive, they got to see the complexity of the bees’ social structure, female workers, drones (males), eggs, brood and capped over honey stores.

communication, which can be helpful in other areas of their lives.

I was lucky enough to be welcomed by the students and observe their final lesson.

Their sense of purpose and recall of the information was brilliant, and their enthusiasm lit up the room.

Ivor’s empathy and passion made the course on modern natural beekeeping a joy. It covered the honeybees’ behaviour, natural history, diseases and pests.

Ivor was rewarded, by the students, with smiles, thanks, a card and a delicious honey cake.

After completing the course, each trainee received a certificate and stepped into a protective bee suit and gloves for the first time.

Often the experience of meeting bees for the first time can be a thrilling and eyeopening experience.

It is also potentially an instinctively fight or flight moment when people hear bees buzzing around their face, even though they are on the other side of a suit for the first time.

This additional sensory stimulation can be difficult for people with sensory processing issues or overwhelming, but there was none of it.

The students’ focus and questions demonstrated they worked well as a group and the challenge offered the opportunity to find creative ways to ensure effective communication.

Their support network will ensure they make great progress.

Coles Miller riders (from left) Nick Balchin, Neil Andrews and Laura Hall

Wage rises fuel interest rate concerns

UK wages have risen at their fastest rate in 20 years - raising expectations that UK interest rates will have to rise.

Regular pay excluding bonuses increased by 7.2% in the three months to April, although it still lags behind rising prices due to inflation, according to the latest data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

It has increased fears among homeowners interest rates could rise again, meaning higher mortgage repayments for households, as the Bank of England seeks to reign in inflation.

The Bank of England has previously warned big pay rises are contributing to the UK’s still-high rates of inflation, and has put up interest rates 12 times since 2021 to try to slow price rises.

Higher interest rates are good for savers, as the interest on their money rises, but it means higher repayments for mortgage holders - and large increases for those seeking to renew their mortgage after enjoying a lower fixed rate in previous years.

The mortgage market has seen disruption amid the figures, with many lenders

withdrawing mortgages amid uncertainty over rates, with many predicting they could raise as high as 5.5%.

On Tuesday, the government’s borrowing costs - which directly impact mortgage rates - rose to their highest rate since last year’s mini-budget.

About You

• You’ll need to be target driven.

• Have a proven track record of B2B sales.

• Have the ability to work independently sourcing your own leads, through competitive media, online and social media.

• An understanding of both print and digital advertising.

• The personality to build a strong customer base.

• Your own transport is a must with mileage paid. This is a full time role.

• You’ll be joining a friendly, supported team, where you’ll be selling across a range of regional magazine titles.

• We DON’T do hard sell, these are local magazines, supporting local communities, success is key, but we’re also building a reputation we’re proud of.

• We DO recognise and reward success especially team members who exceed their targets. Be nice, but be successful!

• You’ll need to be based within and familiar with the Blackmore Vale area.

• You’re welcome to work from our Wincanton office or work from home within Dorset, Wiltshire or Somerset.

For more information or to apply, please contact; debi.thorne@blackmorevale.net

Darren Morgan, director of economic statistics at the Office for National Statistics (ONS), said in cash terms, basic pay is now growing at its fastest since current records began, apart from the period when the figures “were distorted by the pandemic”.

“However, even so, wage rises continue to lag behind inflation,” he added.

And job security confidence grows - but real wages drop, says report

JOB confidence across the UK workforce has grown, with 62% of employees stating that they are confident about their job security for the next six months.

That’s according to the latest Robert Half Jobs Confidence Index (JCI) – an economic confidence tracker produced by the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr) and specialist recruitment firm, Robert Half.

The latest figure – reported in the June edition of the report –represents a quarterly uptick on the 53% of the workforce who were confident about their job security in the previous JCI. This was influenced by improvements in macroeconomic confidence, which rose 23.1 points quarteron-quarter, though remains in negative territory.

With the JCI predicting that the economy will grow by around 0.2% year-on-year in

2023 at a time when skills shortages remain prevalent, this jobs confidence is likely to continue on an upward trajectory.

However, the data also revealed a level of dissatisfaction with remuneration, with the pay confidence pillar of the JCI not only remaining in negative territory, but also falling a further 29.1 points quarter-onquarter.

The Index shows significant contractions in real employee earnings continued to weigh on the pay confidence indicator so far this year. Average total pay, while up by 5.8% annually in nominal terms, was down by 3.0% after adjusting for inflation in the first quarter.

Poor figures for labour productivity growth and pay variance also held back an improvement in pay confidence, the report said.

The Blackmore Vale Ltd is looking for an experienced Sales Executive to join our team.

Motoring

Supercar experience for one and all

MOTORING website

DrivingExperience.com has partnered with a leading disability organisation to launch a new range of Adapted Supercar Driving Experiences, allowing people with a physical disability or visual impairment to enjoy the thrill of driving a supercar.

The latest packages, open for people from as young as 10 years old, are designed with accessibility in mind, with the cars specially adapted for those who have restricted arm or leg movement, ranging from single or double amputees to those with paralysis of one or two limbs.

The packages are also suitable for people who are visually impaired or totally blind.

Dan Jones, operations manager of DrivingExperience. com, said: “Few things come close to the adrenaline rush

you get when driving a supercar around a racetrack, and we're incredibly proud to now be able to make this amazing experience accessible for both children and adults.

“The cars available on the

new packages include the likes of stunning Ferraris and Lamborghinis, capable of speeds up to 202mph, which are among the dreams of many. “However, these cars have been adapted with temporary

or fixed hand controls and a steering ball, and they come with either a semi or automatic gearbox, making control much easier for those with limited limb functions.”

Dan added: “Just because you have a physical disability or visual impairment, it does not mean experiences like this should be unavailable to you, and we want as many as possible to be able to enjoy driving a supercar around a track.”

Supercar experiences can be booked at three locations – one in Yorkshire and two in Oxfordshire – chosen for their accessibility and facilities on site.

To learn more about DrivingExperience.com's experiences, visit the dedicated Driving with a Disability or Junior Driving with a Disability section on its website.

2011 (11) LAND ROVER DEFENDER 110 COUNTY TD in Silver Only 24200 Miles, Side Steps, Tow Bar, Rubber Protec�on Mats, Radio/CD Player, Alloys £26995

2012 (62) VAUXHALL ASTRA SPORTS TOURER 1.6 EXCLUSIVE AUTO in Silver Reverse Camera, Air Con, Cruise Control, Electric Windows, Electric Mirrors, Radio/CD Player, 94000 Miles...................................£5995

2018

Front & Rear Parking Sensors, DAB Radio, Auto Lights, 33000 Miles with FSH...................................£14495

2015 (15) VAUXHALL CORSA 1.4 ECOFLEX SRi 5 Dr in Grey Air Con, Black Alloy Wheels, Bluetooth, Cruise Control, Electric Windows, Electric Mirrors, 45500 Miles, FSH £7495

2018 (68) CITROEN C3 AIRCROSS 1.2 PURETECH 110 FLAIR in Silver 6 Speed Manual, 7” Touch Screen, Sat Nav, Cruise Control with Speed Limiter, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, Electric Heated and Folding Mirrors, Electric Windows, Rear Parking Sensors, Alloys, Only 7800 Miles..........£14795

(67) VW GOLF TDi SE 5 Dr in Red, 8” Touch Screen, App Connect, Adap�ve Cruise Control, Bluetooth, Alloys,

Among the cars available are Ferraris and Lamborghinis

Angling club out to catch them young

DORCHESTER & District

Angling Society juniors hosted an open day at Revels Fishery as part of the Angling Trust’s Get Fishing campaign to introduce young people to the sport and help those with some experience.

Some 18 excited new anglers enjoyed the fishing and the warm summer sunshine having casting lessons, and trying out feeder fishing and float fishing on rod and line and with a whip. If the fishing was not enough, a free barbecue was thrown in.

DDAS junior secretary Graham Howard said: “At the end there were smiling faces

Anyone for tennis?

THE Wimbledon tennis fortnight gets under way next Monday (July 3) and Weymouth Lawn Tennis Club is joining in the action by staging an open day.

Visitors will be able to try their hand at tennis for the first time or take the first step to getting back into the sport as part of the Lawn Tennis Association’s Big Tennis Weekend.

Everyone is welcome to go along and join in, and some free coaching will be on offer for adults and juniors with the club’s LTA registered coaches Matt Eaton, Ryan Bissett and Clive Stow.

Fun activities on a tennis

theme will be on offer and visitors can test their skill against the ball machine.

Visitors can pre-register and reserve a space or just turn up and mix in.

Rackets will be available and visitors should wear trainers with good grip and loose/sports clothing.

Cakes, tea/coffee and cool drinks will be on offer and members will be available to tell visitors more about the club. There will also be a free raffle and special membership offers.

The open day is at the club Radipole Park Drive on Saturday, July 8, from 11.30am3.30pm.

everywhere and lots of exciting fishing stories being told.

“It is hoped this was the first of many such events we will be looking to host in the future.

“These events are not possible without volunteer coaches, so thank you to those that turned out to help and to Jason Fricker at Revels.”

For more information about DDAS juniors, visit www. ddasjuniors.co.uk or contact Graham Howard at juniors. sec@d-das.com. For membership information go to www.d-das.com – information about Revels fishery can be found on Facebook.

Kenzie Toulson was one 18 young anglers at an open day at Revels Fishery held as part of the Angling Trust’s Get Fishing campaign

Weymouth Tennis Club is holding an open day in the middle of Wimbledon fortnight for people to try out or get back into the sport

Youngsters coin in the cash

FIVE boys from Swanage Under 10 football team and the seven-year-old brother of one of them raised £1,645 for Cancer Research when they took part in Poole Pretty Muddy Kids 5k.

in association with Phil’s Happy Dogs

Warning over microchip law change

ALMOST half of cat owners in the UK are unaware they may be breaking the law if their cat is not microchipped when a new law comes into force.

From June 10 next year, failing to have your cat microchipped could result in a hefty fine of up to £500.

The RSPCA has reminded cat owners of the change after a survey conducted by the charity showed almost half (47%) of adults in England were not aware of the new cat microchipping law.

The charity also reported 83% of cats brought into its animal centres across England and Wales in 2022 were not microchipped.

Under the new legislation, which was announced in March, from June 10, 2024, it will be a legal requirement to microchip pet cats after they reach 20 weeks of age.

Owners will also be required to keep their contact details up

to date on a pet microchipping database.

Owners found not to have microchipped their cat will have 21 days to get one implanted or may face a fine of up to £500.

Samantha Watson, scientific officer and cat welfare expert at the RSPCA, said: “The countdown is truly on to get your cats microchipped and steer clear of those hefty fines.

“This month is also National Microchipping Month, so what better time to get your cat chipped and make sure your friends and family are aware of the incoming law, too.

“Microchipping is an essential component of being a responsible pet owner. This new law means lost cats can be easily identified and reunited with their owners, rather than being handed to rehoming charities which are struggling with overflowing waiting lists.

“Microchipping dogs has been mandatory for many years,

so to finally see the same law and protections being applied to cats is a huge step forward for feline welfare.”

The survey also found more than three-quarters of adults in England agreed it is a positive development for cat welfare.

Phils Happy Dogs

I

I work in silence.

I will control any situation with your dog.

Single visit specialist. Any dog, any age, any issue. 30% discount for rescue dogs.

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!

Arrow words

Crossword

Emperors of Japan

Brain chain

Down

2 Tests (5)

3 ‘That was easy’ (5,2,4)

4 Develop over time (6)

6 Musical performance (7)

7 Murder (4)

8 Exposing (7)

10 Love of life (4,2,5)

13 Lengthy undertaking (7)

15 This evening (7)

17 Artist’s room (6)

20 Member of the heron family (5) 21 On top of (4)

Poole harbour visit with Minister

MY work has been very varied this month – both in Parliament and here in Dorset. In Parliament I brought forward the Retained EU Law Bill on behalf of the Government and was involved in several Parliamentary debates for that. I also answered questions at the despatch box with the Attorney General, on a range of issues including fraud and prosecutions of people who have committed serious violence. You can watch my contributions on my website or YouTube channel. I’ve also had meetings and correspondence with Ministers and other colleagues to discuss both Parliamentary issues, and to raise important constituency concerns.

I was pleased to able to welcome the Minister for the Environment to Dorset to see Poole harbour, and discuss

nutrient management and migration, pollution and the role of farmers near the harbour. We have already discussed the oil spill and I know she is working hard to ensure a thorough investigation into what happened.

I was delighted to visit award-winning Wareham Forest Touring Park to hear about its sustainability aims and to see its tranquil site. Over the next few months I will be running my ‘Spotlight on Mid Dorset and North Poole’ initiative. I want to put a spotlight on some of the amazing organisations, businesses and places across the constituency. If you would like to be included, please do get in touch – send me a photo, let me know

what you can offer to local people, or ask me to come and visit. As your MP I get to meet an incredibly wide variety of people and visit lots of brilliant businesses and charities. I want to make sure that everyone knows about you – so please do get in touch!

I’ve also had lots of contact with children and young people this month. I’ve been quizzed by a school group visiting Parliament and have visited several schools in the constituency. I’ve also talked to sixthformers about being an MP and Solicitor General, and the work opportunities within the Government and Civil Service. My office has hosted a group of work experience students – giving

them an insight into the work of an MP and of my staff.

Over the summer I am looking forward to spending some time with my family, and to being out and about across Dorset and Poole – hearing from you and keeping up with regular surgeries and visits. If you are holding an event and would like me to come along, please do send me an email – I’d love to hear from you. If you want to hear more about what I’ve been doing here in Dorset and in Westminster, you can sign up for my email newsletter on my website. www.michaeltomlinson.org.uk

If you need to get in touch, you can contact me via email at michael.tomlinson.mp@ parliament.uk or call my office on 01202 624216.

Puzzle solutions (from pages 22-23)

chain

MICHAEL TOMLINSON Member of Parliament for Mid Dorset & North Poole

Michael Tomlinson

A barge represents no solution

THE Government’s immigration policies have been condemned by many. Justin Welby has described the Illegal Immigration Bill as ‘morally unacceptable’, criticising what he calls ‘harmful rhetoric’ about asylum seekers.

In Dorset, there has been much concern about the arrival of the ‘Bibby Stockholm’ in Portland Port. The Home Office plans to house up to 500 young male asylum seekers on the barge.

Richard Drax, our MP, is reported as saying he only heard about the contract between the Home Office and Portland Port once it had been signed. Dorset Live reports that the vessel will cost taxpayers more than £20,000 a day while it is docked in port.

Neither Richard Drax nor Bill Reeves of Portland Port –who had been invited – attended a public meeting called by Portland Town Council on

Tuesday, June 6. At that meeting, emotions ran high. Many residents were unconvinced by what they heard from the Home Office representatives who were present by video link, and by the reassurances of Dorset councillors, a police spokesman and the Dorset chief medical officer.

Some residents spoke of ‘illegals’ – of an ‘invasion’. Women and girls would be at risk from young asylum seekers who might be criminals. Already overstretched health services would not be able to cope –one anxious resident said: “If any asylum seeker is having an operation, I might not be able to get one.” Tourists would be driven away by the prospect of meeting gangs of young men on the beach.

It is worthwhile, then, to

counter some of the myths peddled about refugees.

It is, in fact, ‘legal’ to claim asylum in the UK, even if arriving by dinghy. This is why refugees are not simply arrested on arrival, despite Suella Braverman’s talk of invading illegals being ‘at odds with British values’, ‘getting involved in drugs [and] violent crime’.

Up to 88% of claims for asylum are successful. It is the long delays so many asylum seekers face when their claims are being considered that leave so many in limbo – detained in hotels, B&Bs and now, it seems, barges.

The insistence that claims be made in the UK has driven refugees to risk their lives to get here.

There is talk of ‘invasion’ – yet fewer refugees arrive here

now than 20 years ago. The number of asylum claims made in the UK is lower than the EU average.

Statistics – as the police spokesman at the meeting confirmed – show asylum seekers are less likely to commit crime than those born in the UK.

There can be no doubt that the people of Portland were not formally consulted about the barge. This was admitted by the Home Office representative. Nor can there be any doubt that Portland is a deprived, neglected community – one which has been forgotten.

But there is no invasion of illegals – only desperate people who will be detained in a barge designed for half their number, many of them traumatised, all of them needing us to show our humanity.

Childcare must be a policy priority

WITH three – now adult –children ranging in age from 23 to 32, it seems a long time ago that I had to worry about childcare and its associated costs. But with the recent birth of my first grandchild, whose parents live in North London rather than Dorset and are unavailable to avail of either set of grandparents for babysitting/ childcare, the cost of nursery care for young Sam when his mother goes back to full-time work has become a hot topic of debate in our family.

In 2021 childcare took 30% of the average UK wage compared with Finland (18%), Netherlands (17%) Canada (16%) and Denmark (9%). Overall, the UK lags far behind most other developed countries.

At the same time, the UK continues to have the secondhighest rate of social inequality in the G7, behind only the US, according to statistics published by the OECD. Our inequality is

fuelled by educational disadvantage.

Recent surveys of primary school teachers have highlighted that many new entrants to school aren’t toilet trained, could not give their name and can’t eat by themselves.

Early years education is hugely important. A child without basic skills at the age of five is likely to continue to lag all through their school career. What’s more, when they become parents in their turn, their children are likely to lack skills as well.

Levelling up won’t happen unless we educate our children properly. Professional childcare is vital to help our children, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Providing properly subsidised professional childcare doesn’t

only help children. It also enables their parents to go for jobs. There are nurses, care workers and firefighters who can’t afford to go to work because of the cost of childcare. Mothers wanting to go back part-time can’t afford to.

Childcare is one of the top issues mentioned by people on the doorsteps. If any political party is serious about reducing social inequality, they need to put a properly financed professional childcare policy at the top of their priorities and that’s something the Liberal Democrats have campaigned for consistently.

Funding childcare and public services properly costs money. We therefore need to get serious about tax.

We should tackle tax inequality. In the UK the top 1% of people earn 13% of all

UK earned income. In Sweden and Norway the figure is 8%. Here, the richest fifth earn 13 times more than the poorest fifth in our society. In addition, the poorest fifth pay 22% of their income in indirect taxes, for example VAT, compared with the richest fifth, who paid 9%.

Amid the ongoing cost of living crisis, inflation at stubbornly high levels with real pay eroding in value and mortgage rates rising inexorably to levels not seen for many years resulting in a ticking time bomb for fixed-rate renewals, it’s no wonder that for the first time ever, half of women reached 30 before having their first child and the birth rate is lower than 1.6 – our population is in steady decline.

Profound consequences arise from that, and it will be the subject of my next article.

CHRIS BRADEY Chair, Swanage & Rural Purbeck Labour Party

Nick Ireland

Chris Bradey

Bursting with colour: Discover the instant impact of vibrant perennial plants

WHEN it comes to creating a stunning garden, there's nothing quite like the instant impact that perennial plants can provide. These exceptional beauties not only add a splash of colour and vibrancy but also offer longevity and reliability. Among the countless options available, several standout varieties deserve special attention for their remarkable ability to captivate and transform any garden landscape. Lupins, foxgloves, geums, heucheras, agapanthus and leucanthemums are just a few of the plants that can effortlessly breathe life into your outdoor haven.

Lupins, with their tall spires of

vibrant flowers, are a true showstopper. Available in a spectrum of colours, from deep purples to soft pinks and sunny yellows, lupins inject a sense of drama into the garden. Their distinctive shape and prominent flowers make them an eyecatching addition to any landscape. As a bonus, lupins are relatively low maintenance, making them an ideal choice for both experienced gardeners and newcomers alike.

Foxgloves, with their towering spikes adorned with delicate bell-shaped flowers, displays an air of enchantment. These stately plants bring an element of wild beauty to any garden setting.

Heucheras mixed varieties and (inset) foxgloves mixed varieties Available in a range of colours, including traditional shades of pink and purple, as well as creamy whites, foxgloves are a favourite of pollinators such as bees and butterflies. They effortlessly add height and texture to borders and can even thrive in partial shade.

Geums, with their cheerful, semi-double blooms, are a delightful addition to any garden. Their vibrant colours, which range from fiery oranges to sunny yellows, create a striking contrast against the green foliage. Geums bloom for an extended period, providing a continuous display of colour throughout the summer months. These versatile perennials are perfect for beds, borders and containers.

Heucheras, also known as coral bells, are beloved for their stunning foliage. With leaves in shades of burgundy, lime green,

bronze and silver, heucheras add a touch of elegance and texture to any garden. These versatile plants are ideal for both sun-drenched and shaded areas, making them a valuable asset in the garden. Their tiny bell-shaped flowers, which appear on slender stems, are a bonus.

Agapanthus, with their bold globes of blue or white flowers, evoke a sense of tropical paradise. These architectural plants lend an air of sophistication, especially when planted in large pots. Agapanthus thrive in sunny spots and can tolerate a range of soil conditions. Their long-lasting blooms make them an excellent choice for adding a touch of drama to borders or focal points.

Leucanthemums, or Shasta daisies, are classic perennial plants that evoke a sense of nostalgia. Their pristine white

flowers with yellow centres brighten up any garden. Leucanthemums are a low maintenance choice, providing abundant blooms from early summer well into autumn. These timeless favourites are perfect for creating a traditional or cottage garden ambiance.

To explore the world of instant impact perennial plants further, pop into our garden centre. Our knowledgeable team is always ready to provide expert advice, tips and tricks tailored to your specific needs. Whether you're an experienced gardener looking to refresh your landscape or a beginner.

Sue Butterworth GouldsGC.co.uk

n SUE Butterworth is in her 25th year at Goulds Garden Centre. She is the plant manager for this busy store and has been sourcing plants for award-winning gardens at the Chelsea Flower Show since 2018. She is an avid gardener, leading to numerous Britain in Bloom awards including a first.

Lime-tolerant rhododendrons for alkaline soil

By Sally Gregson

EVERY year at Chelsea nursery exhibitors introduce new, interesting plants, and the plant that won lots of praise ten years ago was a lime-tolerant rhododendron. How many times have we who garden on limey soils been tempted to try an especially beautiful rhododendron or azalea, only to find a few years later that its leaves are yellow and it simply refuses to grow well in our alkaline garden?

The Inkarho rhododendrons, ‘rhodos’, are happy in soil that has a pH of up to 7.5, providing it is fertile and well-draining. They also put up happily with quite a bit of sun, unlike most rhodos that prefer the shade.

Rhododendron Inkarho ‘Bloombux Magenta’ is a vigorous, yet low-growing plant that would even grow into a

hedge. It reaches about 75cm in good soil and would be a beautiful substitute for box. It flowers reliably in early summer with bright magenta pink flowers and can be trimmed after flowering to make a hedge.

Inkarho rhodos have been grafted onto a very special lime-tolerant rootstock that was discovered in a German lime quarry and developed over 20 years. Not only are the rhodos lime-tolerant, but the beautiful, dwarf Yakushimanum varieties have been grafted onto the Inkarho rootstock. Now they are easy to grow on almost any good soil, with the typical ‘Yak’ foliage and compact flowers. Rhododendron ‘Anuschka Inkarho’ is red in bud opening

Gardeners are sometimes tempted to try a rhododendron or azalea, only to find a few years later its leaves are yellow and that it refuses to grow well in an alkaline garden PHOTO: JillWellington/Pixabay

to rose-pink flowers. The flowers of R. ‘Gomer Waterer Inkarho’ open white with a golden flare. And R. ‘Schneekrone’ is a Yak with soft pink-and-white flowers with red spots.

It is especially important to feed the Inkarho rhodos with a slow-release ericaceous feed in March and after flowering to encourage healthy growth and lots of flower the following year.

All Yaks are suitable for tubs and large containers. So many rhodos are just too big to live in a pot, but these would make an especially lovely addition to a selection of containerised ericaceous shrubs, and would flower well every spring.

Ben Collyns Thatching offers a fully comprehensive service covering the South West with over 15 years of experience. As proud members of the National and Somerset Master Thatcher’s Association’s, Ben Collyns Thatching not only offers a unique and in-depth source of knowledge but also offers exceptional customer service and satisfaction.

Ben Collyns Thatching offers a dedicated service providing high quality craftsmanship with a conscientious approach to traditional techniques and regional variations of thatched buildings.

Ben Collyns Thatching offers full re-thatches, all styles of ridging, patching and repairs, timberwork and carpentry, summerhouse design and build, property maintenance, surveys and roof reports.

info@bencollynsthatching.co.uk

07874 191175

www.bencollynsthatching.co.uk

Ben is happy to discuss any customer requirements and offer specialist advice, and work with local authorities to produce appropriate results for a property. Ben aims to reflect his passion into each and every project he undertakes.

M en’s shed pair sort out problem

LAST September we bought a self-build lean-to glass greenhouse which we found impossible to assemble following the very difficult instructions provided.

The company was most unhelpful and demanded £100 if we wished to return it.

We contacted a couple of builders who said they could do the job but never turned up.

In desperation I contacted The Wareham Men’s Shed, a voluntary group who work together for the well-being of all and make things to help the community.

What a positive experience! Two of the men assembled it over time stating that they ‘love a challenge’ and asked for no more than ‘a donation’ towards running the group and to buy used wood for future projects.

What a worthwhile charity. Thank you.

Marion K Wood Via email

Charity shop window display

I WOULD like to congratulate the Lewis Manning charity shop here in Wimborne for its great folk festival themed window display in the days leading up to the festival.

The coloured bunting, dream catchers, spiritual pictures and so on really helped build one’s anticipation of a great day to come.

Perhaps this is something the

other shop owners or the council could pick up on to raise money for charity, in the same way as the best Christmas window.

Each shop participating to be given a number, people could purchase a voting sheet with diagram of participating shops and space to make their vote of the one that impressed the most, and the winning shop could be given a trophy to be kept for a year.

All this could be organised at minimum cost and I am sure there would be people willing to volunteer to help out with the counting up of the votes and so on – I know I would.

Carole Crease via email

Think twice if you see baby bird

AT this time of year, the fledgling season is well upon us and it’s not uncommon to find a youngster on the ground by itself or hopping around without any sign of its parents.

Such a situation can make it hard to decide on the best course of action.

It’s only natural to be concerned as baby birds can look vulnerable, but in most situations you don’t need to worry or do anything about it.

Whether you need to do anything on that very rare occasion depends on whether a baby bird is feathered or not and if it is injured.

The chicks of our most common garden birds fledge once they are fully feathered but

FACTOID OF THE FORTNIGHT

IT’S been hot recently and many of us were among the throngs throwing ice lollies into our baskets at the supermarket over the bank holiday.

But did you know, you probably wouldn’t be enjoying your refreshing lolly if it hadn’t been for an 11-year-old child called Frank Epperson and a mistake that probably earned him a telling off?

In 1905, little Frank left some soda powder and water outside in a cup, with a wooden stirrer.

The chilly San Francisco air meant when he returned to it, it was frozen solid.

He called it the Epsicle

aren’t yet able to fly.

This means they will often spend a day or two on the ground while they finish growing their flight feathers.

The fledgling is doing exactly what it should be doing and has deliberately left the nest a little while before it is able to fly.

It may be tempting to pick such birds up, but that does more harm than good.

It is extremely unlikely that the fledgling has been abandoned by its parents.

Remember, just because you can’t see the adult birds, that doesn’t mean they aren’t around.

They are probably out collecting food or hidden away in a nearby tree keeping an eye on how their young one is getting on.

However, there is an exception to this rule.

Swifts, swallows and housemartins only fledge –leave the nest– when they are able to fully fly, so should never be found on the ground.

If you find such a bird, contact your local animal shelter and keep a constant eye on the bird until it has safely been collected.

One last thing is that the weather is very dry with little or

and sold it around his neighbourhood, at nearby amusement parks, and even patented the recipe.

Years later, he changed the name, to popsicle.

However, as with many a lolly, the ending wasn’t a happy one.

A broke Epperson sold his patent to the Joe Lowe Company in the 1920s, and regretted it as his invention became a huge success.

no surface water to be found.

Putting out drinking water in a shallow container on the ground will be greatly appreciated by birds and hedgehogs alike.

Mike Fry Upton

Thank goodness we left the EU!

Thank goodness we left the EU

We may be much poorer it’s true

With damage to commerce and trade

But at least all our woes are hand-made !

We’ve managed to take back control

Of a country now deep in a hole

Where nurses are paid less than ever

But at least we’re all in it together!

Where businesses dwindle and fail

Slow exports by sea, road and rail

And now even more Refugees

But at least we can get rid of these...

Off to Rwanda they’ll go

But sometimes when I’m feeling low

I feel like I’d like to go too –

Now that we’ve left the EU!

Martin Hobdell Swanage

Summer has arrived in Swanage, as this sunny scene captured by Robin Boultwood shows

Reader’s picture

Jewellery layering – on trend for 2023

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

THE brilliant trend for layering isn’t just for modern jewellery! Antique and vintage pieces lend themselves really well to being worn together and can create a really stunning look.

Jewellery from the Victorian period includes cameos which can look fantastic as the main feature of the layering, accompanied by more delicate pieces. Art Deco jewellery with its geometric shapes and bold colours is ideal for wearing in this way.

Charms are perfect to add to a chain to create a truly personalised necklace – the quirkier the better!

Take a look at the picture to see how we have brought together some stylish pieces from different eras to create a fabulous look.

Top: An unusual Edwardian 15ct gold swallow on a modern 9ct gold chain – originally from a Victorian bar brooch.

Middle: A simple yet elegant single pearl pendant.

Bottom: A colourful and

dramatic Victorian pendant with five rubies, 12 pearls and rose cut diamond, open scroll design in silver and backed in yellow gold.

Here’s some tips to get you started, whether it is necklaces or bracelets you choose wear together:

n To start with try layering two or three pieces, starting with your shortest piece, to see how they feel and add more when you feel more confident.

n Using different length chains can make a stylish combination and can also prevent the chains from tangling.

n Make the middle layer a plain one to enhance and emphasise the other outer pieces.

n Alternating chains of different styles such as chain link, rope, bead, snake etc can look really attractive.

n Same colour metals obviously work well but using a combination of gold and silver metals, some with gemstones and some plain, is really effective.

The rule of thumb when layering is to have fun!

Fun is the watchword when layering jewellery

‘John the Fish’ 30 years in the business

By dorsetbiznews.co.uk

HE’S one of Dorset’s great food characters known to his loyal customers – some stretching back half a century – as simply John the Fish.

And for good reason.

John Bell is the fourth generation of his family to be a fishmonger.

For the last 30 years he’s run his traditional fishmongers, with wife Sally, from the car park at the back of No.1 High Street, Wimborne.

It was his great grandmother, Eliza, who started Bell’s Famous Fisheries in 1892.

She was followed by his grandfather, Alf, and then his father, Ernest.

John got the taste for what was to become a life-long passion at the age of five.

He said: “For my first job, Dad stood me on a little stool and rucked up the skins of the Dover soles and I pulled them off with a cloth.

“He gave me two and six or something and I thought this was alright.

“I was always asking Dad if I could work with him on a Saturday because it allowed me to make some money and I could go and buy my Matchbox cars, sweets or whatever.”

Such was the experience gained over the coming years that the traditional seven-year apprenticeship was shortened to three, resulting in John becoming fully qualified by the age of 19.

The Wimborne site includes a fish yard, smokery and Sally’s Café.

After business boomed during the Covid years, as more

people turned to local suppliers, trade has returned to prepandemic levels.

John, 64, said: “Covid made us ultra-busy because people couldn’t eat out, so they were knocking on the doors of people like Paul Keating – Wimborne butcher – and myself.

“I would say that was for a two-year period and now it’s levelled back to something approaching what it was before.

“A lot of people went back to the supermarkets but if you can keep a few – and we have – then that’s good.”

As with all foods, prices have risen.

John said: “Fish is very, very difficult in the sense of the price of it.

“The demand is enormous and the London restaurants affect it because they will pay the prices.

“That then drives up the price of the prime fish.

“We’re okay, though.

“My father always said: ‘when prices go high, that sorts the men from the boys’.

“If you’re good enough, then you survive it, but you have to reduce margins when prices go up because otherwise it would be just too expensive.”

Some of John’s loyal customers go back to 1974 when Bell’s Famous Fisheries had a shop in Ferndown.

And children being pushed in buggies 30 years ago are now the buyers of John’s fish, pushing their own children in buggies.

“I’m seeing the second generation, which is lovely,” said John.

Each day John’s agents scour the main fishing ports – from Brixham to Petershead and Poole – to source the best quality catches and get it to his customers quickly.

John said: “Fresh fish is the key. There is no substitute.

“We’re fairly unusual because we’re about 75 per cent wild fish.

“I want all the stuff which is in this beautiful, sceptred isle of ours and continues to be surrounded by the best fishing grounds on the globe to this day.”

Known for his banter with

customers, John’s wingman –traditionally known as First Hand – as well as chief smoker is Mike Tendler.

John said: “I’ve always liked to laugh and I’m lucky to have Mike in the sense that we’re about the same sort of age and a similar sense of humour.

“I like making people happy and, yes, the banter is key.

“If my customers are buying the fish, which I love selling, and they’re enjoying it and we’re all having a good time, then I can think of worse ways of making a living.”

John, who gets up at 4am from Tuesday to Saturday, said he had no plans to put his feet up and take it easier.

He said: “It’s a tradition that fishmongers don’t retire.

“My father didn’t and my grandfather didn’t.

“But as we grow older, we wear out, so we have to do less. It can be a bit challenging at times.”

Married to Sally for 34 years, with four children between them, John said he was frequently asked to name his favourite fish.

The answer?

He said: “I love lemon sole fillets, just fried in butter with a bit of lemon.

“It’s the food of angels.”

Bell’s Famous Fisheries is open Tuesday and Wednesday 8.30am-noon, Thursday and Friday 10am-noon and Saturday 10am-11.30am.

John Bell’s father Ernest, who also ran the fishmongers

John Bell, known as ‘John the Fish’, with his wife Sally at Bell’s Famous Fisheries in Wimborne PHOTO: Dorset Biz News

Art for art’s sake – Katie’s dream finally comes true

By dorsetbiznews.co.uk

FOR Katie Bourne, it’s the realisation of a lifelong dream.

The mother of two is the proud owner of a new gallery – Otter Gallery – in Mill Lane, Wimborne.

It’s also the culmination of years spent following her own creative path.

Painting, studying illustration at degree level, working in radio marketing and founding a successful wallpaper business, Katie Bourne Interiors.

Despite her children’s wallpapers being seen in children’s bedrooms up and

down the country, it was fine art that came calling again.

Picking up her paintbrush brought a renewed rush of excitement and a realisation that the time was right to finally open her own gallery.

A family day trip to the Wimborne Folk Festival initiated a move to the town seven years ago, recently securing a workshop unit in an old mill that required a full renovation.

The Otter Gallery – described by Katie as a space where ‘the art can shine’ – has joined a thriving community of independent, creative businesses in the town.

Showcasing contemporary art from local and national artists, the overriding ethos, said Katie, is one of inclusion, welcoming art lovers everywhere, including children and dogs.

She said: “I want visitors to be able to really look and spend time with the art.

“Our mission is to promote and support emerging and established artists, providing a platform for their work to be seen and appreciated by art lovers and collectors alike.

“We believe that art has the

power to enrich our lives and enhance our surroundings, and we’re proud to be part of the arts community of Wimborne.”

Early exhibiting artists in the gallery include oil painter Janet Bourne; Kimberley Day, a mixed media artist; Joy Gosney, a contemporary landscape artist, and Amanda Bee, a decorative artist from Frome.

Katie, who is married to Will and has two sons, aged seven

and nine, trained at Cambridge School of Art, gaining a BA (Hons) in Illustration.

She said: “Owning my own gallery has been a lifelong dream, driven by a deep passion for art.

“I can’t remember a time when I haven’t engaged in other artists’ work – I’ve been developing my own style and honing my taste all this time without realising it.

“The gallery is a place to enjoy art with no pressure to buy.

“We just want to spread the joy of art!”

The gallery is open Wednesday to Saturday, or by appointment.

ARMISHAWS SMALL MOVES

Its not the size that matters it’s the way you move it!

Armishaws operate a fleet of small removal vans throughout Dorset, Somerset and Wilshire catering for those clients who only need a small removal but still want the expertise provided by a larger removal company.

With prices ranging from £300 for a local move our services are tailored to meet your needs.

The Otter Gallery in Mill Lane, Wimborne (above and top). “We just want to spread the joy of art,” says owner Katie Bourne (inset)

Meditations in nature: Down by the lagoon

By Dr Susanna Curtin

IT is one of those clear June days when the delicate feathery clouds and blue sky stretch to the horizon. I am out with two dear friends rambling through the meadows for a picnic beside the Fleet lagoon.

The month of June is my favourite month of the year. It is named after the Roman goddess Juno, who has come to symbolise youthfulness. And that is how I think of this month. The leaves are fresh and a translucent green, the flower meadows are awash with ox eye daisies and buttercups, there is birdsong

and a plethora of young chicks, and it is a time of plenty when everything is new and bright.

Following the grass path, I notice several small colonies of bee orchids. There is always something intrinsically joyous about finding an orchid –perhaps it is their glamorous and exotic reputation. It was not until adulthood that I began to seek them out and appreciate the great variety expressed in the 57 native species that inhabit the British Isles. I first noticed banks of early purple orchids on my daily commute in Devon, after which I was

hooked on finding more. Bee orchids are the masters of mimicry as the plant has evolved to attract pollinators. The flower’s tip looks just like a female bee, thus attracting the attention of passing males who willingly pollinate it but leave rather disappointed not to have sewn their own seeds.

As we round the corner, the Fleet lagoon comes into view and beyond it the long shingle bank of Chesil Beach. It is years since I was last here, and I had forgotten how extraordinary it is. The shallow stretch of saline water is eight miles long and it is the largest tidal lagoon in the country. It sits within a Marine Protected Area and provides a unique habitat for wildlife, particularly birds. In fact, more than 300

bird species have been seen here and it is a highly significant site for the Little terns who nest here in dwindling numbers each year. They are our smallest tern and master fishermen, skilfully hovering over the lagoon before diving onto their prey.

On this hot sultry day, however, it is the atmosphere that I notice the most. The shelduck, herons and seagulls are all sitting quite still. The water is like a mill pool, with bright green algae fringing the water’s edge, and the chalky white pebbles setting off the colours of this watery palette. Such an intriguing and tranquil place for a picnic and to while the afternoon away.

n Dr Susie Curtin, (email curtin.susanna@gmail.com)

The D’Urberville Centre Wednesdays 5.30pm & 7.30pm Fridays 9.30am & 11.30am Jane 07887 866 730

Get Moving With Livewell Dorset

We know that getting our body moving and blood pumping can do wonders for our health, yet many of us don’t complete the recommended 30 minutes per day, 5 days per week target. Do you?

Ideally, adults should do some type of physical activity every day: do at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity a

week. But how can you tell if you are working hard enough?

Moderate activity will raise your heart rate, and make you breathe faster and feel warmer. One way to tell if you’re working at a moderate intensity level is if you can still talk, but not sing, such as brisk walking, mowing the lawn or riding a bike.

Vigorous intensity activity makes you breathe hard and fast. If you’re working at this level, you will not be able to say more than a few words without pausing for breath. Examples are: swimming, running, playing a sport like football, skipping or walking upstairs.

Spread exercise evenly over 4 to 5 days a week, or every day. Make sure you reduce time spent sitting or lying down and break up long periods of not moving with some activity.

GPs refer to physical activity as the wonder drug: there really is nothing like it to improve your health. Exercise can be as effective as anti-depressants in treating mild depression, not to mention the added weight management benefits.

Want help to improve your fitness? LiveWell Dorset provide free advice and coaching for Dorsert adults. Find out more: https://www.livewelldorset.co.uk/ get-active/

Spice up your barbecue this summer with mix ‘n’ match hot dogs!

HOT dogs are a staple of the summer barbecue or evening meal - when it’s too hot for too much, but you still want something substantial and filling.

Supermarket giant Tesco has detailed a recipe that could make your dogs dazzle - in a gourmet fashion!

Here’s how you can glam up classic bangers in a bun with spicy salsa, pickles and mustard, or cool raita and mango chutney for an Indian-style spin.

* Put the meat or veggie sausages on baking trays and cook to pack instructions.

* For the charred sweetcorn and avocado salsa: Heat 1 tsp vegetable oil in a frying pan over a medium-high heat. Fry 100g frozen sweetcorn with a pinch of salt for 10-15 mins, stirring occasionally, until the sweetcorn is dark golden and starting to char. It may pop a little while cooking. Meanwhile, mix 1 thinly sliced spring onion, ½ a diced avocado, ½ a diced vine

tomato, the juice of ½ lime and 10g chopped fresh coriander in a bowl; season with pepper. Stir through the sweetcorn. Put a Cumberland-style banger in a roll, then spoon over the salsa and a few dashes of hot sauce to serve.

* For the raita, mango chutney and chopped salad: Cut a quarter of a cucumber

in half. Grate one half and finely chop the rest; set aside. Mix the grated cucumber with 100g low-fat natural yogurt, 10g chopped fresh mint leaves and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, mix ½ diced vine tomato, ½ diced small red onion, the juice of ½ lime and 10g finely chopped coriander; season with pepper. Spread ½ tbsp mango chutney in a cut roll and top with a Cumberland-style banger. Spoon over some of the chopped salad and drizzle over the raita to serve.

* For the pulled pork, pickles, red onion and mustard: Stir the sauce from a 180g pack New York Inspired BBQ Pulled Pork into the pork and microwave to pack instructions (or serve cold if you prefer). Slice 2 drained gherkins and thinly slice ½ small red onion. Put a sausage in a roll and spoon over a quarter of the pulled pork. Top with the gherkin slices, onion and a drizzle of American mustard to serve.

Food inflation drops - and people turn to microwaves

PRICE inflation in food has dropped to its lowest level since last year - but remains at 16.5%.

Analytics firm Kantar said like-for-like grocery price inflation had dropped for the four weeks to June 11, with take-home grocery sales rising by 10.8% over the month in comparison with the same period last year.

The firm said of the top five financial worries that consumers have, rising grocery prices is the only one that they are more concerned about now than at the start of the year.

Nearly 70% of households are either ‘extremely’ or ‘very worried’ about food and drink inflation compared to just over two thirds when asked the same question in January. It remains the second most significant concern, narrowly behind rising energy bills.

Consumers are doing what they can to offset the impact of

inflation.

Savvy shoppers have been continuing to swerve the full force of price increases, with many switching to the cheapest own label lines.

Total spending on these value ranges has rocketed by 41% compared to last year and retailers have been quick to respond, expanding their offerings to meet demand.

People are also thinking more and more about what they eat and how they cook as the cost of living crisis takes its toll on traditional behaviours.

Kantar’s data showed the public are turning away from their oven and increasingly using microwaves, which reflects the shift to simpler cooking. There were 4% fewer meals made using an oven according to our most recent 12-week data compared to the same period last year, while microwaved meals rose by 8%.

Quick Wins

10 Quick Wins for Adding Value Before Selling

1 REDECORATE

Redecorating is the most popular home improvement and adding a lick of paint can be done at a relatively low cost. Neutral colours are most appealing to house buyers and can go a long way to giving your home a new lease of life, so do not be afraid to pick up the paintbrush.

2 FIX SUPERFICIAL DEFECTS

While unlikely to be the clinching factor in a house sale, small problems and defects can create an impression of a house being run down or not well cared for. Bigger issues (like damp) should not be covered up as they will show on a survey and come back to haunt you later on.

Things to look out for include:

• Peeling paint

• Dirty walls, especially near door frames & light switches

• Dripping taps

• Squeaky floors, doors or stairs

• Mouldy sealant in kitchens or bathrooms

• Limescale build-up on kitchen and bathroom fittings

• Badly fitted laminate flooring

• Broken lightbulbs

3 THE FRONT DOOR

First impressions count and the front door of your home can say a lot about the rest of the house to first-time viewers. If you cannot afford to replace the door, make sure it looks new by giving it a power wash or fresh coat of paint. Even a new doorknob, house number or name plaque can help. Try to make your front door look smarter than your neighbours’ to help your property stand out.

4 DECLUTTER

Never underestimate a tidy, clean room and pay special attention to high-impact rooms such as the kitchen and bathroom. You should also consider whether there’s too much furniture in each room as it can make the property feel smaller.

Photo: David Pisnoy on Unsplash

Quick Wins

5

HEATING AND LIGHTING

If you’re not at home, preset the heating to come on ahead of a scheduled viewing. Potential buyers will want to know that your central heating works well and feel comfortable in your home if it’s cold outside. Good lighting will also be essential on a drab day so having lamps on in dark corners will help. It’s better for the viewing to take place in daylight but if a potential buyer is coming after dark then turn any outside lights on.

6

GARDEN APPEAL

If you have a front garden, spend a little time sprucing it up. A few plant pots and a clear pathway can make the front of your

Photo: Andy Watkins on Unsplash

Photo: Darren Richardson on Unsplash

Quick Wins

house more appealing helping with the first impressions. Out the back a well-designed garden can add a great deal of value, it should feel like an extra space for entertaining or relaxing, rather than an expanse of grass. It’s essential to trim borders, clear pathways and cut back any overgrown trees or bushes, particularly if they block direct sunlight into the property. An area of decking creates a sense of bigger usable living space and three per cent of

homes sold in 2019 were even found to have a summerhouse in the garden, giving owners more space to relax and entertain in the brighter weather.

7 CREATE A DRIVEWAY OR OFF-ROAD PARKING

In some areas of the country, the ability to park close to your front door comes at a huge premium and therefore, if you have the room to add off-street parking, you are sure to increase value.

8 LOOK SMART AND BE ENERGY EFFICIENT

Smart home technologies are increasingly important to buyers - just advertising the presence of fibre optic cables in your area could be enough to encourage buyers. Statement systems like multi-room music platforms can also make a difference. Double glazing will also help retain heat (and keep noise out). Smart technology such as Hive, which gives mobile control over heating systems, is a feature worth considering. If a home improvement moves your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) up a band it could add thousands to the sale price!

9 MAKEOVER THE KITCHEN

Kitchens are often the main focus for many buyers, it may be the first thing

Photo: Vivint Solar on Unsplash

Photo: Spacejoy on Unsplash

Quick Wins

they look to replace or pay more for if a property has one they like. You may not be able to afford a whole new kitchen but, for a relatively small budget, painting units or replacing cupboard handles or doors are great alternatives. Good lighting and clutterfree, clean surfaces will also make a big difference.

10

FRESH BATHROOMS

In the bathroom, re-grouting, eliminating all limescale and replacing taps are good options. Bathrooms need to look fresh and hygienic, so paint the walls a neutral shade and ideally add a new shower curtain or a standard glass screen. In 2019, new bathrooms were fitted in 29 per cent of homes which sold that year so could be the key to selling fast and earning more.

Never underestimate a tidy, clean room and pay special attention to high impact rooms such as the kitchen and bathroom...

Photo: Backbone Visuals on Unsplash

Photo: Jason Leung on Unsplash

Photo: Roam in Color on Unsplash

Ready, steady stomp!

By Lorraine Gibson

WHAT, you may ask yourself, does Elvis have to do with a rambunctious, foot-stomping, fast-fiddling hoedown of a festival in deepest Dorset?

Quite a lot, actually. When he was born, the king of rock ‘n’ roll was more a prince of paupers, his castle a shotgun shack in Mississippi, his parents poorer than Pentecostal church mice.

His humble beginnings, though, instilled a love of the music of the poor American South, the pain-wrought field hollers – songs – sung by slaves to make their lives more bearable, and the gospel, country and hard-life blues that defined his career.

So, it figures that, among a blistering line-up of the finest contemporary grass-roots musicians at The Rustic Stomp festival, Dorset’s own Elvis tribute artist, Garry Foley, should be in the building – or barn – too.

In local festival terms, The Rustic Stomp is unique, with an eclectic, yet comprehensible stream of roots acts and relevantly-themed stuff, including a hillbilly king and queen fashion show and a wellness hub that you won’t find elsewhere round these parts.

“It brings together local, national and international artists, resulting in the finest bluegrass, hoedown, blues, swamp stomp, country-based festival, with tractors, that money can buy,” said organiser, Ski Daddle. “Three days of music and merriment wrapped within the rustic aesthetic.”

It brings together three Crawdaddy festival brands under one roof.

“The Wonky Donk stage will feature the best of hoedown, country and hillbilly music,” Ski added.

“The Dark Holler stage takes a slightly, well, darker comedic

look at life, and the Organford stage is a more accessible, easy listening venue.”

New this year, as well as historic vehicles, is Dungaville, an interactive area for local talent, children’s entertainment, western-themed games and the Well-Bean Art Tent and Safe Space, run by musician Millie Watson, who is organising a group trip to The Rustic Stomp for folk with a shared experience of mental health issues, or who just want to meet new people.

“Festivals can be daunting if you struggle with mental health or social anxiety, but they can be a life-changing chance to build community,” she said.

Everything bucks off

Thursday evening with local foot-stompers The Jimmy Hillbillies and their Dorset Hoedown.

Friday it’s Frank from Blue Velvet, local skiffle kings Quinn’s Quinney, Burg and the Vagabond Choir and festival favourites The Curst Sons.

International superstar headliners The Heathen Apostles bring a heavyweight feel to Saturday with added heft from Texas Swing outfit the Bootheel Playboys, Dead Horse Bay and London’s finest banjo maestro Flatfoot Johnny.

Sunday steers further towards country with the beloved Sarah Vista headlining, with Dorset supergroup Country Tones, an under-18s stage takeover by The

Music Club and, finally, Foley, as Elvis, making it a belter of an ending.

“We’re looking to add something different and are working up a few surprises,” said Ski. “We are talking with the East Dorset Trac Pac on a vintage tractor-based ‘happening’ on Saturday, so fingers crossed...”

Rustic Stomp began more than a decade ago, when Hawkeye Houlihan and some pals staged a small festival to help the Donkey Sanctuary at Home Farm, Lytchett.

“Each year, we aim to increase the accessibility of this type of music to a wider audience and promote the local artists that provide the backbone to the scene, as well as bring in some top-ranking national and international stars,” said Hawkeye, whose vision and persistence kept the festival running despite lockdown.

Ski added: “The Rustic Stomp feels important...we can help bring people together, have a good time, celebrate our music and our community. It is a bit of escapism for one weekend.”

The Rustic Stomp festival runs from the evening of Thursday, July 13, until Sunday, July 16, at Pikes Farm, Organford. Weekend tickets are £86.40, day tickets from £27.50 – visit www.wegottickets. com/f/12910

‘If there is a fiddle, banjo, accordion, double-bass or mandolin playing in July in Dorset, it’ll be at our festival,’ Ski-Daddle, Rustic Stomp

Elvis tribute artist Garry Foley is at the Rustic Stomp festival

The Jimmy Hillbillies are Thursday’s headliners

Arts & Entertainment

Opera at the village hall

By Lorraine Gibson

NEVER fancied a night at the opera? Think it’s a bit too uppity, too dated, too elitist?

Then it’s time to toss those preconceptions out of the window and let Opera in a Box prove you wrong.

This south England touring company is taking opera in fresh and exciting artistic directions, from off-the-wall venues to intimate adaptations of large-scale works.

It wants to bring the genre to as wide an audience as possible and, with this in mind, has gathered a cast of young and talented individuals from across all areas of the arts and brought them together to create innovative and gripping theatre.

So, where better to start changing your tune, than with its production of Mozart’s Don Giovanni at Lytchett Matravers

next month?

The rollicking tale of a womanising cad who reaps the consequences of his philandering ways as he lusts his way to causing his own dramatic downfall is widely considered one of the greatest operas ever composed.

It opens with Don Giovanni, who despite having a price on his head, is rampaging along a licentious path of heartbreak and estrangement.

En route, he faces his greatest challenge – the seduction of Donna Anna, daughter of the Commendatore, while fleeing Donna Elvira, a previous conquest craving retribution, and breaking up a wedding party – all in the space of a day.

Combining comedy and tragedy, Mozart’s Machiavellian feast is sung in English by a vibrant young

ensemble in what promises to be an exhilarating retelling of the famous classic.

Don Giovanni is at Lytchett Matravers village hall on Sunday, July 9, at 6pm.

Music awards showcase unsigned talent

NEXT year’s Original Music Awards, which showcase Dorset’s unsigned musical talent, will be held in the Concert Hall at Lighthouse Poole.

The awards are organised by Matt Black and Mel Berkhauer of Hangover Hill, the team behind the monthly Live and Unheard nights at Lighthouse.

The event will feature performances from regional artists and presentations across a range of categories.

And two of last year’s winners – solo artist Millie Watson and an expanded line up of Raygo Bloom – will perform 30-minute sets.

Matt said: “As the home of Live and Unheard, Lighthouse is the natural venue for the Original Music Awards and we’re thrilled to be able to stage them at one of the most famous venues on the south coast.

“To be on that stage is like the pinnacle – we’re following

in the footsteps of musical giants.”

Nominations are open now on the Original Music Awards Facebook page and will close in the autumn before a panel of judges chaired by Dave ‘Chinners’ Chinnery of Rock Regeneration webzine meets to deliberate the winners.

Lighthouse head of

programming Tim Colegate said: “The success of Live and Unheard not only demonstrates the level of original talent there is in this region, but also the appetite of audiences to seek it out.

“Hosting the Original Music Awards feels like the natural next step as we celebrate that talent by offering musicians the

opportunity to perform and participate in a major event on the same Concert Hall stage that has hosted legends from Michael Jackson and The Who to Oasis and Nick Cave.”

The Original Music Awards 2024 are on Friday, January 19, at 7pm and tickets and information are available on 01202 280000.

All the Bee Gees’ hits

THE Magic of the Bee Gees

– You Win Again tour is stopping off at Wimborne’s Tivoli Theatre next month.

The tribute act, direct from London’s West End and now in their ninth year, will be performing all the Gibb brothers’ music through the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s in their new show for 2023.

That also includes hits they wrote for artists such as Celine Dion, Diana Ross and

Dolly Parton.

A musical journey is promised through favourite songs including Night Fever, Stayin’ Alive, More Than a Woman, You Should Be Dancing and How Deep is Your Love.

Tickets for the concert on Friday, July 7, at 7.30pm are available at www. tivoliwimborne.co.uk priced £29.70 (including £2.70 booking fee) and from the box office.

Young members of Opera in a Box in rehearsal for Don Giovanni, which they are performing at Lytchett Matravers

Tor da Force was a winner at last year’s awards

Ship to shore: An audience with TV’s Sandy

CAPTAIN Sandy, star of reality series Below Deck Mediterranean, is coming to Lighthouse Poole for the opening night of a UK theatre tour later this year.

Captain Sandy Yawn will share everything fans want to know about life at the helm from the stunning locations to the never-ending drama on board the superyacht.

The evening will be hosted by author, broadcaster and LGBTQ+ advocate Riyadh Khalaf with musical performances by Leah Rae.

Captain Sandy has taken part in six seasons of Below Deck Mediterranean and has accrued a large fan base in the UK and around the world.

Members of the audience at Captain Sandy Live will be able to ask questions about her

THE MOWLEM

Theatre, Cinema & Function Rooms

Book your tickets: www.themowlem.com

Live Shows, Special Screenings & Events:

• National Theatre Live - Best of Enemies (Encore Screening) - David Harewood (Homeland) and Zachary Quinto (Star Trek) play feuding political rivals in James Graham’s multiaward-winning drama. As beliefs are challenged and slurs slung, a new frontier in American politics opens. Jeremy Herrin directs this blistering political thriller, filmed live in London’s West End. Fri 30th June at 7.30pm 2023

career, how she beat cancer and survived a life-threatening bike crash.

The International Superyacht Society also gave her the Distinguished Crew Award for her bravery following a catastrophic fire and pirate threat that occurred in 2006 off the coast of Yemen.

The show is on Thursday, September 21, at 7.45pm in the theatre. For tickets and information phone 01202 280000 or visit www. lighthousepoole.co.uk

• A Beautiful Noise - tribute to Neil Diamond - From London’s West End, this internationally acclaimed production celebrates the music of Neil Diamond. This is the only show starring the extraordinary Fisher Stevens, undeniably one of the BEST Neil Diamond impersonators you will ever see! Together with the fantastic cast of professional musicians and singers who performed at the Lyric theatre in Londons’ Shaftesbury Avenue.

Fri 28th July 2023

• African Drumming Workshop (7yrs+) - With djembes and dun-duns, Master drummer, Cheikh Diop from Senegal will lead you in a drum circle creating an exciting atmosphere full of high energy and great rhythms. Guardians can book to take part too. Suitable for ages 7yrs + Mon 31st July 2023

PAW Festival

• Purbeck Young Musicians in Concert (PAW Festival) - Celebrate our local musical talents with young musicians from Purbeck schools and prizewinners from the Rotary Young Musicians Competition. Mon 3 Jul 2023, 6.30pm

Movies:

• Spider-Man: Across the SpiderVerse (PG) - Brooklyn’s full-time, friendly neighborhood Spider-Man is catapulted across the Multiverse, where he encounters a team of SpiderPeople charged with protecting its very existence. Sat 24th - Thu 29th June 2023

• Lakelands (15) - The story of Cian, a footballer who gets attacked on a night out. He will struggle to come to terms with his career-ending injury.

Tue 4th July 2023 - Thu 6th July 2023

• The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry (PG) - Harold embarks on a walk, and keeps going for 450 miles until he reaches his friend Queenie’s hospice, much to the despair of his wife Maureen.

Mon 10th - Thu 13th July 2023

• Chevalier (12A) - Based on the true story of composer Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges, the illegitimate son of an African slave and a French plantation owner, who rises to heights in French society as a composer before an ill-fated love affair. Fri 14th

July 2023 - Thu 20th July 2023

• The Little Mermaid (PG) - The youngest of King Triton’s daughters, Ariel is a beautiful and spirited young mermaid with a thirst for adventure. Longing to find out more about the world beyond the sea, Ariel visits the surface... Fri 21st - Thu 27th July 2023

BEST OF ENEMIES

LAKELAND

www.themowlem.com

Capt Sandy Yawn (above and below) is star of Below Deck Mediterranean

Spotlight Diary

in association with: Karl’s Kabs – 07751 769833

Diary entries are £6 plus VAT per entry, per month. The deadline for July 10 is NOON on July 7. Call on 01963 400186 or email adverts@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.

JUNE/JULY 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

THURSDAY

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

FRIDAY

14:30 -

EXERCISE in Wm United Reformed Church, Church St. with daisy chain fitness, 01929558139

Spotlight Diary - in association with: Karl’s Kabs

Wanted

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

GUNS WANTED FOR CASH ALSO GUNS FOR SALE

SOS to all air rifles and pistols, any make or model, any condition. We collect in any area.

Top prices paid in cash. 07970 742471

With teams in both Swanage and Wareham, we are firmly on the Isle of Purbeck... and when it comes to selling and letting property, there’s no other agent as ‘on it’ as us!