The New Stour & Avon Magazine 13/01/2023

Picture: STEVE BELASCO

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Half-term hopes for Hengistbury Head

by Lorraine Gibson

It is hoped that the shortterm closure of part of Hengistbury Head, one of the area’s favourite spots for family outings, will end in time for the February halfterm holidays.

Cable installation works necessitated closing off the access road from Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre up to the Maritime Coastguard Agency Lookout turnoff road for approximately two weeks.

Councillor Mark Anderson,

portfolio holder for environment and place, explains: “Hengistbury Head is an incredibly popular visitor destination. It’s also a site of special scientific interest (SSSI), which is why we need to take extra care during these works to install vital infrastructure linking to the MCA radio station.

“Contractors will use heavy machinery and dig trenches in the road so as not to disturb the delicate eco-systems for which Hengistbury Head is known.

“This does mean that it would not be safe to allow people to walk, cycle or drive along the road.”

During the installation works, access along the main Hengistbury Head road has been maintained for emergency vehicles only. The Hengistbury Head Land Train and Land Rover service do not operate at this time of year, however Mudeford Ferry operates from Mudeford Quay, weather permitting, at weekends.

A gander at Mother Goose

Colehill Music and Drama Society will perform Mother Goose, written by founder member, Pam Mizon, next month.

The Dame is played by Mike Andrews and performances –in aid of the Wimborne Food Bank - are on February 3, 4 and 5 at Colehill Village Hall, Cannonhill Road.

Tickets can be booked via ticketsource.co.uk/comad.

Gardening help

If you’re struggling with looking after your garden, help is at hand.

Community Green runs a service for people who need help with hedge-trimming, mowing, planting and garden waste removal.

They have community support volunteers who can work alongside homeowners or join with a team to help in the garden. There is a scaled system of payments.

For more information, contact volunteer@volunteeringdorset. org.uk or 01305 269214.

Ferndown restaurant in planning application

A Ferndown restaurant could be converted into flats if a planning application is approved.

Bob Hull Planning, on behalf of Sloggett Group Ltd, has applied for permission to convert the restaurant at Peveril House in Ringwood Road - currently occupied by Chianti Pizzeriainto six one-bed properties.

“It was formerly an office building with ground floor shops... but now only has a restaurant occupying half of the ground floor area,” the application said.

“The remainder of the building comprises flats granted permissions or ‘prior approvals’ over the last eight years.

“To the rear of the building is a parking area.

“Permission has also been granted for a development of eight flats on a further private car park. The roof is now on this development.”

The scheme would ‘mirror the ground floor area of the other half of the building, and also replicate the layout of the upper floors’, the application added.

“The accommodation would comprise three one-person single bedroom units and three two-person single bedroom units accessed from the hallway in the centre of Peveril House, which gives access to the existing six ground floor flats.”

A conservatory-style extension across the front of the restaurant would be demolished revealing the original window pattern.

Part of the rear exterior staircase would also be removed and there would be some changes to the windows and door on the rear elevation.

Meanwhile, six parking spaces currently allocated to the restaurant would provide spaces for the flats.

The application is out for consultation before being considered by Dorset Council planners. For more details, and to comment, visit dorsetcouncil.gov.uk and search for application reference P/ FUL/2022/07628.

Writer’s boost for Hardy collection

Julian Fellowes, prolific writer, historian, actor, creator of such films as Gosford Park and, of course, the hugely popular Downton Abbey has got behind a project to unlock the Dorset History Centre’s Thomas Hardy collection.

“The Hardy Archive on deposit at the Centre is the biggest and most important collection of material by and about Thomas Hardy in the world,” he says.

“It is a treasure trove of 150 boxes containing thousands of items, books, diaries, notes, paintings, even his mother’s kettle.”

Dorset Archives Trust is leading a fundraising effort to permanently unlock the internationally significant, Unesco-listed archive of Thomas Hardy.

At present, the collection, which consists of material spanning Hardy’s life and including diaries, photographs, letters, books, architectural plans and poetry, is almost invisible to the wider world.

The Centre wants to undertake a project, led by an archivist and volunteers, which will create a free online catalogue for all to access.

It estimates it will take 18 months to complete the task but that once done, Hardy’s archives, the bedrock of any research into the author, his life and work will be permanently discoverable.

The project will require £60,000 and there’s a crowdfunding campaign in support of this.

To contribute, visit dorsetarchivestrust.org.

National recognition for outstanding care

Staff at Alderney Hospital in Poole have been honoured for providing patients with ‘dignity and peace’ in the final stages of life.

Three wards at the hospital have been reaccredited by the national Gold Standards Framework (GSF), earning the Quality Hallmark Award for their outstanding end-oflife care during the Covid-19 pandemic.

As well as Guernsey Ward, which cares for people with physical health issues, Herm and St. Brelades became the first local mental health wards to receive accreditation since 2018 – with St Brelades also scooping the ‘Ward of the Year’ award.

Alderney Hospital was one of 75 hospitals, care homes, hospices, primary care practices, retirement villages and domiciliary care agencies from around the UK to receive the prestigious quality hallmark at the GSF Conference and Awards in London.

David Porter, acute mental health inpatient services manager at Dorset HealthCare,

said: “This accreditation is fantastic news. It acknowledges our teams’ dedication to giving patients and their families the best possible care and experience, with people living out their final days in dignity and peace, supported by stateof-the-art facilities.

“An additional congratulations goes to St Brelades for winning Ward of the Year – an astonishing achievement which

highlights the team’s hard work and commitment.

“The accreditation and award demonstrate what excellent teams we have at the hospital, and the fantastic care and facilities we provide for our palliative, end-of-life patients and their families.

“The ward teams are a credit to the hospital, and I am extremely proud of them all.”

More information at dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk.

CARING: From left, Giorgia Costabile (Guernsey Ward), Charlie Patrick (Herm Ward), Cherie Folkard and Caitlin Day (St Brelades Ward). Top, the St Brelades Ward team

Two arrested after salon raid

Two men have been arrested as officers continue their investigation into a reported burglary at a Ferndown hair salon.

Dorset Police received a report at around 1.45am on Sunday September 11, of a break-in at Huttons Hair and Beauty in Glenmoor Road. It was reported that a number of GHD products were stolen, along with a quantity of cash. Following enquiries, a 34-yearold Poole man was arrested on suspicion of burglary and has been released under investigation. A 43-year-old man from Poole has also been arrested on suspicion of burglary and he has been released on police bail as enquiries continue.

New Year service

A service to celebrate the New Year entitled ‘New Year: New Hope’ will be held at St Nicholas’ Church, Edmondsham this Sunday, January 15, at 11am. This will include coffee and cake. It is hoped that there will also be an opportunity to view the snowdrops in the grounds of Edmondsham House (by kind permission of Mrs Julia Smith) and, from 2pm tea, sandwiches and cake will be served in the Village Hut.

Neighbourhood police contacts

If you’d like to speak to your Neighbourhood Policing Team, Dorset Police have set up a number of Community Contact Points which will be operating in 2023.

People in the Christchurch area can speak to an officer without an appointment on January 17, March 14 and April 21, from noon-1pm at Stewarts Garden Centre.

The point will be operating at the town’s Waitrose branch on February 14 and March 30 from noon-1pm.

There will be a Contact Point at the Verwood Hub on February 23 from 3.30pm-5.30 pm with a Ferndown time and place awaiting confirmation.

Musical fundraisers at Church House

Wimborne photographer Tom Scrase met up with this group of entertainers over the holidays on their way into Church House, Wimborne Minster, to start some musical entertainment for Christian Aid

The magical evening of Carols in the Cornmarket at Wimborne took place on December 23.

For the second year, to keep in line with a plastic-free town, lanterns conveniently placed in the Flower Towers lit up the Cornmarket. The Cornmarket filled with a crowd of several hundred before town crier Chris Brown called everyone to order.

The singing of the Carols was accompanied by the Broadstone Community Concert Band and some Minster Choristers.

The event was sponsored by Wimborne BID, Optique 2000 and Wimborne Minster Town Council, and a collection for the mayors charities, Dial-a-Ride, Walford Mill Education Trust and the UK Wild Otter Trust raised £671.

Colourful collections at Christmas

The Mayor of Wimborne Minster Carol Butter and Wimborne’s own marching band, the Quarterjacks were in the Square on Christmas Eve collecting for charity the mayor’s annual charities, Dial-a-Ride, Walford Mill Education Trust, and UK Wild Otter Trust Pictures: TOM SCRASE

Advent calendar collected £20,000

OFF THE WALL...

On Christmas Eve at 2.00pm in Saxon Square, Rotarian Tim Skinner welcomed spectators to the closing performance of the 2022 Christchurch Living Advent Calendar (CLAC).

He said that CLAC 2022 had continued last year’s success, with 24 surprise performances raising some £20,000 for the 24 local charity beneficiaries.

CLAC had delighted audiences ranging from 50 to 200 people with daily performances in 24 town centre venues by 24 talented local artists or groups – all sponsored by local organisations!

This was a notable achievement, and he gave enormous thanks to all involved including especially the Primrose Charitable Trust as prime sponsor.

Tim then introduced the surprise performers for the occasion, the Christchurch U3A

The Deputy Mayor gave enormous thanks from Christchurch Town Council to the organising group of Christchurch Rotarians and local volunteers, led by Jan Banks, who had brought the event to the town for a second year.

It had raised the profile of the town, and of all the organisations involved.

She closed CLAC 2022 by wishing a Happy Christmas and New Year to all involved. Anyone interested in learning more about Rotary is invited to visit: rotary-ribi.org/clubs/ homepage.php?ClubID=648

Richard Reader Christchurch Rotary

Come and join our town guild

New members are welcome at Verwood Afternoon Townswomen’s Guild.

At the first meeting of the New Year members were entertained by Morgan, Ivan and Eric with a Call My Bluff Bygone Quiz.

This made for a fun and very informative afternoon during which ladies learned the history and purpose of many strange farm implements!

Tea and cakes were served up,

along with a raffle and a book sale.

The next event will be a Coffee Morning to lift winter spirits.

Plus the Dorset Federation is holding a Social with refreshments and entertainment and a General Knowledge Quiz in March.

For Guild information ring Judi on 01202 053264.

Linda Pearson Verwood

Thinking caps on for quiz

Wimborne Community Theatre is inviting local quiz groups and individuals to a fundraising Quiz Night on February 22, to support future theatre projects.

As always, it promises to be a fun and entertaining evening of questions on a wide range of subjects from easy to challenging, and everything in-between. Come as an individual and join a group, or come as a group of up to six. The entrance fee includes buffet at your table, prizes and raffles.

Visit wimbornecommunity theatre.co.uk and facebook.com/ wimbornecommunity theatre. Cost: £8 on the door, cash or cheque. Bar available. Please reserve a place as soon as possible. Doors, 7pm for 7.30pm. Colehill Sports and Social Club, 108 Wimborne Road, Colehill. For further details and to book, contact me on barbarahart414@ gmail.com or on 01202 884201.

Barbara Hart

Wimborne

Free digital advice at library

If you need help online or using a tablet, computer, or mobile, visit our Digital Champion at Corfe Mullen Library.

Digital Champions can help people to get online. They can give advice on many digital queries, such as setting up and using devices: including phones, tablets, and PCs.

Sessions are free. They run every

Monday from 10:30am-1:00pm. Sessions must be booked, so please book a slot (1:1, 40-minute session) by calling the Digital Hotline on 01305 221048 or contacting Corfe Mullen Library on 01202 659755 or corfemullenlibrary@ dorsetcouncil.gov.uk.

Jessica Burford

Corfe Mullen Library

Cartoon by Lyndon Wall justsocaricatures.co.uk

Vintage Brass Band, above, who played Christmas music to an appreciative audience, many of whom joined in with the Christmas carols.

Relive the glory days at museum exhibition

As part of its ongoing ‘East Dorset Celebrates’ exhibition, the Museum of East Dorset Museum is delighted to welcome several members of the 1992 FA Vasewinning football team to the museum.

Head along to enjoy a chat with the former Wimborne Town Football Club players and perhaps reminisce over happy memories together.

You can re-live the match itself, which will be projected onto a screen, and you’ll also have the chance to play interactive games and win prizes.

Kick-off will be at 10am tomorrow, Saturday, January 14, and is likely to last into the afternoon.

This is a free community event

and everyone is welcome.

Entry is via the Tea Room, not through the museum, and museum entrance is not included.

Platinum Award-Winning Care 2022

REMEMBER ALL THIS? Enjoy the chance of a day reminiscing at the Museum of East Dorset

Pictures: STEVE BELASCO

Out of the hundreds of photos submitted to the monthly Poole Harbour Canoe Club Photo Competition on Facebook, the best 50 or so are selected.

Members then have a chance to select the ‘best of the best’!

The competition has always aimed to encourage more people to take a camera whilst out paddling and capture those unique moments that we can only experience on the water; whether it be wildlife we encounter, awesome coastal views or just amazing weather.

It has helped people put more thought into their photos and get much better images.

The voting takes account of the ‘likes’ it received in the monthly competition, the votes cast (choice order) after release of the video and the frequency of an image being selected in the final voting in which voters could vote for just three images; this is shown in the ‘point accumulated’.

The voting system has evolved to remove as much of the subjectivity at the judging stage as possible.

They are available for viewing at: youtu.be/2_bRWlk4SAY.

JONNY BOAKES

MICHAEL HOWLETT

Hannah’slife changingweight lossjourney

“Duringlockdown,after achangeofjobandin anunhappymarriage,I wasreallystrugglingto feellikeIwasgood enoughandIhadshut downinside.Ifounda counsellorandmylife startedtoturnaround.I leftmymarriage, movedouttothe countryandstartedmy healingjourney.

Myweighthadbecome outofcontroloverthe previous15yearsorso, whichInowrealisewas becauseIwasfeeling overlookedbymy husbandandafter havinghad3children.

FrommynewhomeI startedexploringmy

surroundingsand drovepastNicki Edwards’very brightlycoloured (pink!)branded careverytimeI wenttothelocal supermarket. After5monthsof promisingmyselfI wouldcallthe numberonthe car,Ifinallyfelt ready.After yearsandyears offeelinglikeI wantedto loseweightI finallyfeltreadyto taketheplunge andIremember feelingsohappy andexcitedtoget started.Ifinallyfelt incontrol.This wassuchan empoweringfeeling.

MeetingNickiand discoveringherenergy andenthusiasmforThe 1:1Dietwasvery inspiringandwehitit offstraightaway.Nicki advisedmetoreduce myintakeofcarbsand increasetheamountof waterIwasdrinking beforeIstartedthediet andIfeelthismade startingreallyeasy.I

wassodeterminedthat Ireallydidn'tfind followingthediet difficultatall.Ifollowed theplanreligiously(I fellinlovewiththe peanutbarswhichare delicious)anddid exactlyasIwastoldby Nicki.Shewasonhand tosortoutany problemsorquestions astheycroppedupand herextensive knowledgewasso valuable.She encouragedmethe wholeway.Sheissuch aninspiration.

Losingweightforme hasbeenlifechanging. Ihavenowlost5stone andhavesomuch moreenergy.Ino longerfeeltiredand stressedallthetimelike Iusedto.Ihaveeven joinedthegymand enjoygoingtoclasses.I

wassoexcitedthedayI startedrunningand nowIlovethattoo.

Mygoalwastofind myselfagain.Ihad madesomanymassive changestomyandmy children’slives,andI feltlikelosingweight wasthelastthingleft formetoachievetoget backtobeing thepersonIwas before.Iwanttomeet someonespecialand liveahappylife together.Ifinallyfeelas ifI'mreadytostart datingandenjoyinglife again”….Hannah

Thecarthatinspired Hannahtotaketheplunge!

NickiEdwards,The CambridgeLadyismoving toWimborneonJanuary6th Hannahbeforeher5stoneweightloss

Political round-up

Gove unsympathetic to council tax poverty

Council tax poverty is on the increase in Dorset.

There are now thousands of households which have to pay more than 10% of net income in council tax.

This year, for some, council tax bills will reach £90 each week – over £4,500 a year out of taxed income!

In the House of Commons, I asked Michael Gove, the Minister responsible, how he believed it to be either compassionate or Conservative to be increasing council tax poverty in Dorset. I also linked the problem to his failure to reform the grant funding system.

The response from Michael Gove was totally unsympathetic.

He said that he actually felt sorrier for people in other parts of the country because ‘the relatively wealthy and the relatively older in our country already have it relatively better’.

In fairness to the Minister, he eventually agreed to meet me just before Christmas to discuss my demand that he apologise and he listened to the case for Dorset.

He has agreed to look into the fact that a 5% increase impacts more heavily on those who already have some of the highest bills in the country, as

we do in Dorset.

I asked why the Government doesn’t adopt the same approach as it does for precepts for fire and police services where maximum increases across the country are calculated as a fixed sum per Band and not by percentage. Another point which he agreed to consider was my assessment that council tax is now, effectively, a proxy wealth tax which hits hardest those who are asset rich but income poor. It is because of this that so many households are using their savings as income so as to fund their council tax. This problem is made worse by the Government’s refusal to increase the means test threshold for capital savings beyond £16,000, the level set in 2006.

That threshold would now be over £25,000 if it had increased in line with CPI inflation.

The consequence is that anyone with modest savings in excess of £16,000 has to pay their council tax bill in full.

I look forward to receiving Michael Gove’s considered response to these points.

n An announcement is expected this month on exactly how park home residents and others who are living in properties off the energy grid will be able to access their £400 energy support package.

Not only has this been much delayed, but the payments will not be made automatically.

This means that those eligible will be required to make an individual claim through a government website.

That claim will then be implemented by the local council.

If any residents need further information or help on this, please contact me at chopec@ parliament.uk

Government must call for pay talks now

As we reach the end of another tumultuous year in the political life of the United Kingdom it is good to know that the dreadful handling of the NHS has been recognised by the King’s Fund in a recent report on the Conservative’s record as being due to ‘a decade of neglect... leaving it with too few staff; too little equipment, and too many outdated buildings to perform the amount of surgery needed.’

Bear in mind this is the Department of Health and Social Care’s own report, ordered just a few months ago! Embarrassing or what?

The report goes on to contrast unfavourably with the tactics used by the Blair/Brown Labour Government of the late 1990s in chasing down the horrendously long waits for both care and operations at that time which

that Government found on taking office in 1997.

Whilst Rishi Sunak is throwing everything at the waiting times problem, it is only having a limited effect.

Those 10 years of Tory/Lib. Dem ‘austerity’ have come back to bite him!

Sunak would be entitled to quietly curse David Cameron and Theresa May.

With the NHS cracking up under the strain of the Covid epidemic it has to be said that those years of neglect together with loss of staff through ‘burn-out’, return of staff to Europe following Brexit, together with the huge deficiency of nursing and doctoral staff due to this Tory government’s inability to recruit and train enough staff has led to this current impasse with the administration - and is it small wonder that the bubble has burst over the ridiculous

pay offer made by the so-called ‘independent’ pay review body. This is a fight this government is totally unable to win. They should call for pay talks with the unions now as this dispute shows signs of becoming nasty... and let’s not forget the nurses are the ‘darlings and heroes’ of the

Covid days of two years ago and polls show there is still overwhelming support for this strike.

Rishi Sunak says we cannot keep inflation down with such pay deals being done.

I say without upping the pay offer already on the table there will be no NHS left.

This is a pretty weak argument from this government stuffed full of billionaires and millionaires and given the billions of pounds that were lost in rotten PPE deals for Covid and the £40billion lost by the disastrous Liz Truss/ Kwasi

Kwarteng short-lived premiership.

So, roll on 2023 when we will be getting closer than ever to the next Labour government, this time under Keir Starmer’s control.

A Happy New Year to all our readers.

Christchurch & East Dorset CHRIS CHOPE MP

Dorset Labour ALAN CROSS

Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher

Gas prices fall, yet households pay more

People seem to fall into two camps with their opinions on New Years’ Resolutions. Whether you think they are a waste of time or rethink your whole life as the clock strikes midnight, the turning of the year is as good a time as any to think about hopes for the future.

As I watched the latest Prime Minister address the nation with a new year message about being proud of the country, expecting fairness and having hope for the future, many of us were sitting wondering whether the lights on our Christmas Tree or the increased use of the oven would make it more difficult than usual to pay our January bills. I had a complete shock seeing my own energy bill double in December. I put it down to children home from Uni (extra loads of washing and very long showers). Plus, we had that extended cold snap, shorter days and watched more TV over Christmas.

I am lucky. I can find the money for what I hope is a midwinter blip, but many people cannot. It’s crazy that as the energy market is increasingly powered by renewable sources and wholesale gas prices are falling, prices for hard-pressed households continue to rise.

The Conservative government has given help over the winter, but for high energy users –including those with disabilities, the frail and those in older or rented homes which are typically less well insulated –this is a drop in the ocean. They belatedly adopted the Windfall Tax, first proposed by Lib Dem Leader Ed Davey in January 2022, but it still lets oil and gas firms off the hook.

The tax - officially the Energy Profit Levy - only applies to UK oil and gas extraction, not profits from refining or selling fuel at the pumps. It also brings in a ‘super-deduction’ tax break when profits are invested in

MORE fossil fuel extraction, worth 91p in the pound. This allows Conservative MPs to talk about the generous support they are giving, whilst knowing that profits in oil and gas company are rising still higher. If the Prime Minister genuinely believes in fairness and hope, he must urgently reform the Windfall Tax. As suggested by the Liberal Democrats, it should be broadened to cover all profits

Town civic society launches evening meetings programme

Wimborne Civic Society’s evening meetings with visiting speakers from January to March are open to all, and are held at 8pm on the third Tuesday of the month in the Quarterjack Room of the Allendale Centre.

The next meeting will take place on Tuesday, January 17, 2023, when Charlie North-Lewis will be talking about ‘The History of the Tivoli Theatre’. Charlie has been the general manager of Wimborne’s beautiful art deco theatre for several years and knows the place and its history very well.

He is an entertaining and experienced speaker.

On Tuesday, February 21, members and guests will be able to hear about ‘The Buildings of Wiltshire, rewriting Pevsner’, when Julian Orbach will be giving a fully-illustrated address.

Julian is an accomplished architectural historian and spent some

years thoroughly revising Nikolaus Pevsner’s 1960s volume in the wonderful ‘Buildings of England’ series of guides.

He is an engaging speaker and has a wide range of slides of Wiltshire buildings, some well-known, others quite a surprise.

By way of a contrast, on Tuesday, March 21, Don Nutt will speak about ‘Pirates, Castaways and Codfish’.

Don is a Poole Bay Rotarian and a local historian, and will be unveiling the significance of his intriguing title on the day; it’s reasonable to assume that it’s something to do with the port of Poole and its colourful history.

Both members and non-members are most welcome to attend for a modest entry fee of £1 for members or £3 for visitors.

You are welcome to join the Society at any meeting; subscriptions cost £10 for a year’s membership for an individual, or £15 for a couple.

and linked to a programme of home insulation. This will lower bills by reducing the need for heat and decrease the carbon footprint of every home. It will also create green jobs in every community.

The super-deduction should be limited to investment in renewables infrastructure so we speed up the transition to green energy and the Government should reform the energy market so that consumers –including businesses –benefit when wholesale prices reduce. A New Year allows us to reset, rethink and make a real difference. There is so much this government must do to restore trust, bring hope, and improve lives but this is a good place to start directly benefitting homes, businesses, schools, and hospitals while expecting those who are accidentally profiting to carry a larger burden.

May I wish you and yours a happy and healthy New Year.

Green transport option on the up

Forty per cent of people who use Beryl Bikes or scooters in the BCP council area say the green transport option has helped them reduce car usage in 2022.

The figures represent a 26 per cent rise on last year and are part of a survey of more than 1,000 riders in the BCP area.

Researchers also discovered that the number of people who are using their Beryl ride to connect with public transport has doubled to 50 per cent, up from 25 per cent in 2021, with convenience given as the most important reason for doing this.

The average distance of those journeys are less than 2.5km, showing, says Beryl, the increasing importance of bikeshare as an option for the first and last mile journeys.

Beryl CEO and co-founder, Phil Ellis, said: “Our findings this year are reflective of external factors and show that, in line with rising cost of living, people are recognising the value of shared micromobility schemes as a more cost-effective, practical and convenient alternative to private vehicle ownership.”

BCP’s portfolio holder for sustainability and transport, Mike Greene, said: “Leaving the car at home and picking up a bike, e-bike or e-scooter is now becoming more and more established as a practical, easy way to get around Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.”

Dorset Lib-Dems VIKKI SLADE

A pair of diamond drop earrings, in the Charterhouse auction of jewellery, watches and silver on Thursday, February 2, will make a perfect Valentines Day gift for a lucky lady.

“The diamond drop earrings are stunning and yet understated. Large enough to matter but not so large you would worry about wearing them out,” commented Richard Bromell of Charterhouse.

The earrings are formed from a round brilliant cut diamond suspended with a pear shaped diamond below and are estimated at £2,000-£3,000 in the Charterhouse auction.

Charterhouse are now accepting further entries for their busy programme of auctions including silver, jewellery and watches in February, classic cars in March and also classic motorbikes in March.

Richard Bromell and the team are available for help and valuation at Charterhouse, The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, Dorset on 01935 812277 or via info@ charterhouse-auction.com

£13k for golden goblet

The last sale of 2022 at Semley Auctioneers saw steady demand across the board. It was the fifth specialist sale of Jewellery, Watches, Coins & Silver of the year, and included a collection of coins, mostly commemorative gold examples.

The 30 lots raised a shade under £144,000. Objets de vertu followed the coins section, led by this Stuart Devlin textured gold goblet (pictured) which brought £13,000.

Best of the jewellery section was a diamond solitaire ring at £3,800 (the more expensive pieces are usually reserved for the April and October jewellery

sales), and a natural saltwater pearl single strand necklace at £2,800, while the silver included a set of 10 Victorian plates at £ 4,200, an incense burner from the Sultan of Oman at £ 2,900, and two silver trays at £2,500 and £2,100.

In the watches section a lady’s Ebel wristwatch went at £2,100. Entries are now being accepted for the February Jewellery & Silver sale, and for all the other Spring specialist sales. Enquiries should be directed to Paul Strange at the Semley, Shaftesbury office, or Kath Barber at the Wimborne office, or Rose Halton at the South Kensington, London office.

1921 census info is now available

by Lorraine Gibson

Calling all ancestor hunters, researchers and history lovers.

Want to know more about your local community’s past - or about your own family?

Then contact the Dorset Family History Society who have just announced that hitherto unavailable access to the 1921 census is now available at their research centre.

The 1921 census was released by heritage records company, Find My Past last year but, up until now, has only been available to their own pay-as-yougo subscribers.

Now however, the society, a local charity, is offering access via research sessions at their Treetops centre for £3 per visit where you can view as many 1921 entries as you like, access other research facilities and talk to volunteers.

Pre-booking is required - they need to allocate PCs - through a form on their website or by calling them on 01202 785623 during opening hours (Monday, Wednesday and Saturday 10am to 3pm).

Treetops is at Suite 5, Stanley House, 3 Fleets Lane, Poole. dorsetfhs.org.uk.

U3A’s £3000 for hospice charity

The Ferndown branch of U3A has raised more than £3,000 for Lewis-Manning Hospice Care after the charity was nominated as its ‘charity of the year’.

U3A is a UK-wide collection of 1000+ charities that provide the opportunity for those no longer in work to come together and learn for fun.

Lewis-Manning Hospice Care trustee Tim Lee, who is also a U3A member, said: “I put the charity forward for consideration and was ecstatic that the members chose it as its ‘Charity of the Year’, particularly fitting considering that it was in Lewis-Manning’s 30th anniversary year.”

Ferndown U3A member and Ferndown town crier, Mike Andrews pledged to walk 1,000 miles to raise funds.

Mike asked members to sponsor him 1p per mile. By the end of his challenge, he had completed an incredible 1,650 miles and many supporters were very generous and donated an additional £6.50 each. Alongside

the sponsored walk initiative, Mike organised and hosted a community quiz raising an impressive £2,321.59 in total.

In addition to Mike’s fundraising, U3A Green Fingers Group raised £310 by hosting a plant sale, whilst other general donations and collection boxes raised almost £600.

Tim Lee added: “All of U3A’s fabulous fundraising throughout the year has meant that the overall total raised was an amazing £3,230, a wonderful amount and it will make such a positive difference to the lives of our patients and their families in East Dorset & Purbeck and will allow the hospice to provide care for so many people in the community.”

“Lots of members have said they want to continue their support for Lewis-Manning. “We’re also doing a campaign amongst members to ask people to declutter and donate to Lewis-Manning’s charity shops.”

Meet our new Slimming World consultant Debbie!

‘Hi, I’m Debbie, I joined Slimming World two years ago via Zoom when we were still in the middle of lockdown.

‘I decided that as my baby girl had now turned one, I couldn’t keep blaming my expanding waistline on having ‘just’ had a baby!!

I lost two stone and four pounds, and it really has changed my life.

‘I feel so much more confident and much happier to have my picture taken with my daughter, which is something I have avoided for some time.

‘I love food and that’s why I love Slimming World, because you don’t have to restrict what you eat.

‘One of my favourite meals is the Diet Coke chicken - it’s so versatile and a real family favourite.

‘I am so looking forward to helping people locally and can’t wait to meet you at my group on Mondays at 5.30pm and 7pm at Bearwood Primary School from 23rd January 23.

‘For more info please call me on 07715 357853.’

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n Town crier Mike Andrews

Wimborne Community Learning and Resources Centre

Kings Street (entrance in Kings Street car park)

Tuesdays 7.30am, 9am, 10.30am, 4pm, 5.30pm, 7pm Louise 07902 566149

Colehill

St Michael’s Church The Church Centre Thursdays 6pm Lucy 07749 983274

Colehill The Reef (next to St Michaels School) Saturdays 9.30am Lucy 07749 983274

Corfe Mullen

The Royal British Legion 80 Blandford Road Wednesdays 9am, 11am, 3.30pm, 5.15pm & 7pm Sadie 07545 379045

Broadstone Broadstone Conservative Club Tudor Road Friday 9.30am Lucy 07749 983274

Ferndown

Ferndown Village Hall Church Road Tuesdays 5.45pm & 7.30pm Thursdays at 7.30am, 9am & 11am Zoe 07964 887581

Ferndown Ferndown Scout Hut Cherry Grove Friday 9.30am Sophie 07818 506511

West Moors

Pinehurst Community Church 90 Pinehurst Road

Wednesday 4pm, 5.30pm and 7.30pm Thursday 9am & 10:30am Karen 07795 820310

St Leonard’s

The St Leonard’s Hotel Ringwood Road Monday 7.30pm Sophie 07818 506511

Blandford Methodist Church The Close Thursday 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tracey 07776 309982

Blandford Corn Exchange Market place Wednesday 8.30am 10am 11.30am 5.30pm 7pm Tracey 07776 309982

Verwood

Verwood Memorial Hall Ringwood Road Wednesday 5.30pm & 7.30pm Danni 07753 312454

**New Consultant from 23rd January** Bearwood Bearwood Primary School Barons Road Monday 5.30pm & 7pm Debbie 07715 357853

Winton - Bournemouth St.Luke’s Church Hall St.Luke’s Road Fridays 5.30pm & 7.30pm Saturdays 8am & 10am Susie 07794 994014

Charminster - Bournemouth St.Francis of Assisi Church Hall 480 Charminster Road Wednesdays 9.30am & 11.30am Susie 07794 994014

Boscombe East, Bournemouth

Ilford United Reformed Church Ropley Road Wednesday’s 9am Thursday’s 3.30pm, 5.30pm or 7pm Charlotte 07954 237438

Boscombe - Bournemouth

Boscombe Baptist Church 26 Palmerstone Road Tuesday 5.30pm & 7.00pm Gary 07733 131277

Christchurch Twynham Church 99 Barrack Road Mondays 5.00pm & 6.30pm Gary on 07733 131277

Festive cheer for Wimborne Food Bank+

by Lorraine

Despite the long spell of icy weather, 30 adults and 47 children braved the bad conditions to visit Wimborne Food Bank’s Santa Grotto.

The team, dressed as elves in Christmas jumpers, cheerfully served up a buffet and hot drinks while chatting to the families as they waited to meet Father Christmas.

Supported by local charity Faithworks, Wimborne Food Bank+ provides more than food parcels.

It offers free debt advice, budgeting support, warm spaces community meals, school holiday parcels, recipe bags and free family events.

At the free grotto, families got to meet Santa who provided each child with presents and a goodie bag.

The team also helped each child choose a book and to wrap a present for their parents on Christmas Day.

Grown-ups were distracted with the free buffet so the surprise wasn’t ruined!

More than one parent was in tears as they thanked the team for providing such a special outing.

As one mum put it: “The grotto looked amazing with a jolly and caring Father Christmas.

“Also, there were fun stations set upbooks, toys and treats. The children loved their amazing experience.”

Sharon Keenan, Wimborne Food Bank+ manager, explained: “Visiting Santa can cost a lot of money, especially during an expensive time of year.

“We wanted to create memorable experiences for each family so that they

could all enjoy something at this special time of year that others might take for granted.

“Our grotto has grown each year and is enjoyed by the children, the adults and our volunteer helpers as well.

“We love to see the excitement on the children’s faces when they have seen him and can choose a present for themselves and for their parents.”

Visit faith-works.org.uk for more information.

It all adds up for budgeting courses

by Lorraine Gibson

Can’t put two and two together? Don’t know your fractions from your factors? You’re not alone. National Numeracy, a charity dedicated to improving the nation’s numeracy skills, says a shocking 49 per cent of the UK’s working-age population has the expected numeracy levels of a primary school child.

Maths affect so many aspects of our lives, so it pays to get number savvy. We can’t all be maths wizards but numeracy skills are more important than ever as we manage budgets in the face of double-digit inflation, the cost of heating a home up by 150 per cent and food prices up by 20 per cent.

Multiply, a government-funded programme is offering courses to people in Dorset aged 19+ who don’t have maths GCSE at grade C (or equivalent). It’s designed to help adults’ numeracy skills and participants learning can be in person or online via tutorials by friendly professional tutors.

The Get Number Confident courses include everyday maths, managing money and understanding data.

Get Maths Confident For Work is for people wishing to enhance their employability by building maths confidence and is good preparation for future maths qualifications.

Multiply programme manager Hannah Ball, said: “We are all faced with maths problems every day, from working out our weekly household budget, energy and fuel bills, to finding the best value phone contract, comparing mortgage rates and deciding

whether that supermarket multibuy offer is good value.

“But for many of us maths evokes feelings of insecurity and anxiety - not surprising research shows that almost 50 per cent of us struggle with even basic maths.”

Add poor numeracy currently costing the UK economy £25 billion a year and you get the drift.

Kate Holmes, Multiply learning coordinator added: “With the cost of living so high, it has never been so important for us to feel

able to navigate the cost-of-living crisis and feel more in control of our finances.

“Being more confident with numbers has a positive impact on our confidence and wellbeing; it can also make us feel able to support our children better and aim higher at work.”

Courses are flexible and can be used to improve maths skills or as a springboard to more advanced courses like GCSE.

Visit skillsandlearningace.com/subjects/ multiply-free-maths-courses.

From left, the Multiply crew, Kate Holmes, Hannah Ball, Olivia Girling, Aimee Brown and Terri Clark

Gibson

Action stations for young firefighters

by Lorraine Gibson

A fire engine with blue flashing lights and siren sounding, skills games and dressing up as firefighters were among the fun activities laid on for children from Portland Class at Beaucroft Foundation Special School, Wimborne, at Springbourne Fire Station. Thanks to Variety The Children’s Charity, pupils enjoyed two visits organised by Variety Wessex volunteer, John Stein. Springbourne crew manager, Adam Moss and firefighter Jason Bethell took the children on a tour that included watching a fireman ascend the long fire pole, seeing the crew’s gym, kitchens and mess-room. They tried on uniforms and climbed up into a fire engine to discover how the equipment is stored and enjoyed a firefighter’s view from the cab.

The 10 to 14-year-olds also took part in outdoor challenges, including rolling up fire

hoses, using a rope to haul in weights and carrying containers of water.

Much laughter and cheering ensued as they raced to complete the tasks but the most exciting activity was learning how to use a hose - if the huge smiles on the children’s faces as the water gushed from the hoses was anything to go by.

Pupil Alfie said: ‘It was fun doing the fire test races and putting on the firefighters outfits’.

His friend Riley added: “It was really cool. My favourite part was seeing the fire crew get into the engine and head off to an emergency.”

Frances Cornelius, chairman of Variety Wessex, thanked John Stein for arranging the trips and also Adam Moss and Jason Bethell for looking after the children and giving them great experiences, saying: “Their trip... gives them some

wonderful memories to share with their friends and families,”

John Stein, owner of Taylor Made Estate Agents said: “These two days are just the beginning of... visits for local children.

“It has been marvelous to be involved with the firefighters who have given the children some amazing experiences.”

Chris Woodward, Portland Class teacher said: “Another fantastic trip. Both groups had a great time.

“Our grateful thanks to John Stein and to Jason and Adam who were amazing guides.”

Pictures: HATTIE MILES

Cooking... with Martha Legg

Salmon traybake

Well, we have been on holiday again, and yes, the weight has come back on!! So we are back to low-fat, diet recipes. We both love salmon and we were looking for a different recipe when I saw this. I have adapted the recipe to suit us.

Before we went on holiday, we had decided to have our patio redone. We have two patios and they were separated by a wall, which was falling down.

The paving stones were all uneven and we were worried about the grandchildren falling over, (the youngest one is just walking), and the parents, who can be a bit unsteady on their feet!! Not to mention the fact that we are getting older and more unsteady!! (But that does depend on the number of gins I have had!!)

You know the old maths question of ‘if it takes one man two days to cut one field, how long does it take three men to cut six fields?’ (Like, who really cares!). Well, that was a bit like the workmen for the patio!!

Some days we had four guys and some days just one. What started out as one week’s work, is now in its third week!!

All we want in the hot weather, is to be able to sit out on our patios. Having said that, it is now nearly finished and looks brilliant.

We have gone for imprinted concrete that looks like decking. Very posh, so bring out the Pimms!

Ingredients

5cm root ginger, peeled and grated 1 red chilli, deseeded thinly sliced 2 skinless salmon fillets (240g total weight)

1 - 2 crushed garlic

1tsp light soy sauce

1tbsp rice wine vinegar

1 cal oil spray

Stir Fry

4 spring onions chopped

One small onion chopped

Six mushrooms chopped (I use oyster mushrooms as they have more taste)

Pak Choi

Two packs of straight to wok noodles

Method

Step 1

In a shallow dish, mix together the garlic, ginger, chilli, soy sauce and vinegar. Make enough to use with the stir fry vegetable and noodles.

Add the salmon and leave to marinate overnight or for at least 20 minutes.

Step 2

Pre-heat the oven to 185C. Wrap the salmon dish with tin foil and cook for 12–15 minutes until the salmon is cooked through.

Step 3

While the salmon is cooking, add a spray of oil to a wok and stir fry the onion, spring onion and mushrooms. When cooked, add some of the marinade to the pan. Add the noodles and when coated with marinade add the rest and the Pak choi.

Place in a dish and then place the salmon by the side. Serve immediately.

Swap the masher for a slice of sweet

by Lorraine Gibson

January days and long nights cry out for a cheering plate of comfort food. Why not try this easy recipe for a warming cottage pie topped with delicious slices of sweet potato in place of the usual mash? Not only do you get the familiar hearty filling, but an orange ‘lid’ that embraces the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness! Cottage pie with sweet potato

Method

1 Heat 1⁄2 tbsp oil in a large pan or casserole dish over a high heat. Add the beef and fry for 4-5 minutes, until browned. Remove from pan, add remaining 1⁄2 tbsp oil, lower the heat to medium and fry the

Delight as Dorset’s Charlie makes

finals

by Lorraine Gibson

It was a proud moment for Love Local Trust Local (LLTL) - the organisation dedicated to supporting the county’s producers - when Dorset’s Charlie Jeffreys was named runnerup in the Master Chef: The Professionals finals.

“What a great achievement!” says LLTL’s Barbara Cossins.

“Seeing him showcasing wonderful crab and lobster from our shores and lots more loveliness from his Dorset upbringing - he was so proud of his roots.”

Barbara cites Charlie as being a great example of why Love Local Trust Local was founded in 2018 with the aim to tell the stories behind local enterprises and help them promote their produce.

“It’s very tough at the moment in all areas of business, and it doesn’t look as if it’s going to be any easier in 2023,” she says.

“We need to stick together and feel part of something that we can grow.

“No matter where you are, if you need help, we are all part of the Love Local family.”

The last couple of months have been busy ones for the organisation as sponsors and judges have been visiting the 2022 awards nominees and hearing their journeys firsthand.

On February 9 this will culminate in an awards ceremony held - after what’s bound to be a splendid dinner - at Kingston Maurward agricultural college in Dorchester.

“It’s a night to celebrate our wonderful producers, farmers and fishermen who are

onion, celery and carrot with a pinch of salt for 10 minutes, until softened. Meanwhile, mix the stock cube with 500ml boiled water.

2 Return the beef to the pan, add the tomato purée and cook for 1 minute, then stir in the flour and fry for 1 minute more. Add the stock, Worcestershire sauce and 2 thyme sprigs and simmer for 25-30 minutes. Meanwhile, thinly slice the potatoes and put in a bowl. Cover with boiled water; set aside. Drain and use kitchen paper to pat dry, then lay out on more kitchen paper to finish drying.

3 Preheat the oven to 200oC, gas mark

6. Melt the butter. Tip the beef and gravy into a medium ovenproof dish. Toss the potatoes with the butter and leaves from the remaining thyme sprig. Season and arrange over the beef. Bake for 30 minutes.

Cook’s tip

Scatter grated cheddar over the potatoes halfway through baking to give the pie a nice cheesy crust. Recipe & pic: WAITROSE

working hard to make some of the best produce in England,” says Barbara, adding, “if anyone would like to come and support our evening or get involved and be part of this growing family, contact us on 07831 184920.”

The next step in the process will be showcasing the winners, all of whom are right on our doorstep. They’ll reveal not just their accolades but the stories that will hopefully get them noticed by the public.

Barbara points out that campaigning and using social media are particularly hard and expensive for small independents trying to make a living.

“We need a voice to stand up to big organisations who dictate our prices and make the money whilst our producers

Volunteer Christina at royal carol service

Christina Wilson, a volunteer at Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, was nominated by the Deputy LordLieutenant of Dorset to attend a carol service at Westminster Abbey, titled ‘Together at Christmas’.

The carol service was hosted by HRH The Princess of Wales and dedicated to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and to all those who are no longer with us.

In attendance was His Majesty

The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort, together with Their Royal Highnesses The Prince and Princess of Wales.

The service was conducted by The Very Revd Dr David Hoyle MBE, Dean of Westminster.

The service was sung by the Choir of Westminster Abby, conducted by James O’Donnell, Organist and Master of the Choristers.

Christina, a former teacher, has been a volunteer at Lewis-Manning

for more than 17 years and has held a variety of roles, including receptionist, and supporting daycare patients.

Reflecting on her experience

Christina said: “It was a truly memorable day at the Abbey.

“The service itself was very diverse and I felt so privileged to be there amongst the many members of the royal family.

“There were also many famous faces.

“We all joined in with the traditional carols”

Lewis-Manning Hospice Care CEO Clare Gallie said: “We have so many wonderful volunteers who support our charity and it was fantastic that Christina was nominated and chosen for this very special occasion, representing our hospice community.

“It sounded like an unforgettable occasion.”

Life Interest Trust Wills and the Trust Registration Service

If you or your spouse have included a life interest trust in your wills, beware of the need to register the trusts created under the will.

There are potentially two types of trust which would have been created under a life interest trust will;

1) The life interest trust for the surviving spouse and

2) The property trust created for the beneficiaries after the death of the surviving spouse.

If the surviving spouse expects to live in the property, or any future replacement property, for a period of more than two years after the date of death of the first spouse, then the trust will need to be registered and doing so immediately is better than waiting until the expiry of the two-year period.

The property trust will also need to be registered, but there

is one main exemption.

If the trustees and the beneficiaries of the property trust are the same people, then there is no need to register as they are essentially holding the property on trust for themselves. If you have different trustees and beneficiaries, the beneficiaries include minor children or grandchildren, or there are more beneficiaries than trustees, the property trust will need to be registered within 90 days of the date of death.

If you are unsure of the need to register the trust created under the will, registration in any event is recommended to avoid being considered non-compliant and potentially subject to hefty penalties.

James Rust, Private Client Solicitor

n Christina Wilson attended Westminster Abbey

Harold G Walker Solicitors

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Therapy donkey Charlie concludes ‘12 Days’ event

Forest Holme Hospice in Poole organised a 12 Days Of Christmas series of activities, treats and surprises to help leave lasting memories of Christmas cheer for those in their care, along with their families, and for staff.

The hospice has arranged live performances from dancers, a young cellist, ukulele band and staff choir, distributed gifts including Lush bath sets and food hampers, as well as organising wreathmaking sessions, pizzas and luxury hot chocolate for staff.

The 12 Days concluded with a visit from a therapy donkey called Charlie, courtesy of Kelly’s Donkeys, who visited and met with patients, visitors and staff.

Paul Tucker, communications manager at Forest Holme, said: “The idea of the 12 Days Of Christmas special activities was to help leave lasting memories of Christmas cheer at the hospice, particularly for those in our care and their families.

“We wanted to do everything possible to make it truly memorable, especially as, for many, this Christmas will be their last.

“We are extremely grateful to everyone that has helped make these 12 days truly magical.”

Forest Holme Hospice provides palliative

and end-of life-care and support to more than 1,500 people each year across Poole, Wimborne and the Isle of Purbeck with advanced cancer and other life-limiting illnesses such as Motor Neurone Disease, Parkinson’s, heart disease and respiratory illness.

Helping young people with drug issues

by Lorraine Gibson

It’s a hard truth to face, but according to Young Minds, the charity that helps support young people with mental health, drug and other issues, the use of both legal and illegal drugs among teenagers and young adults is widespread.

Teenagers are likely to experiment, test boundaries and take risks and smoking, drinking and trying drugs are among the most common ways in which they might do this.

Substance misuse is one of the most common risks to a youngster’s health and development and all drugs have the potential to cause harm; some can be addictive, and using them in combination can increase the risks.

Illegal drugs include cannabis, cocaine, ecstasy and heroin but legal drugs - alcohol and tobacco - can be very addictive.

If you’re worried that your child could have or is already having problems with drugs or alcohol, help and advice are available and, as a parent, there are things you can do. If you’re unsure about anything, Young Minds has loads of advice and their simple guides for parents talk you through things you might try, such as: Be a good role model: You’ll influence your

find them relaxing, etc, but also add the drawbacks like illness, being sick, being vulnerable.

Make conversations about drugs an everyday thing rather than a big, one-off talking point.

Be clear about the myths: Like how they don’t boost self-confidence and suggest other ways of overcoming shyness, awkwardness or anxiety.

are other things they suggest, but if you really think your child is using alcohol or drugs to help them cope with difficult feelings or mental health issues, speak to your GP for professional advice straight away.

Visit: youngminds.ork.uk talktofrank.com edasuk.org/support nhs.uk/live-well/addiction-support.

CHEER: A patient at Forest Holme greets Charlie the therapy donkey

‘Amnesty’ for those unwanted pressies

Diverse Abilities, a charity supporting children and adults with disabilities, has launched a call for the county’s unwanted Christmas presents to repurpose as raffle and auction lots throughout its fundraising events in 2023.

The Great Christmas Present Amnesty takes place throughout January where Dorset’s disability charity will accept unwanted and new items from the festive season including beauty products, shower gel sets, cookbooks, alcohol, food hampers and more.

The only products excluded from the collection are electrical products.

Claire Cooper, fundraising officer at Diverse Abilities, commented: “We’ve all received that one present from a distant relative that doesn’t know you all that well, or even received duplicates of the same thing because some people know you really well!

“These presents don’t need to linger in the back of the cupboard any more as we will make good use of them throughout the year.”

Gifts can be dropped off at the Diverse Abilities head office, above Langside School, on weekdays between 10am and 3pm.

The school’s address is Langside Avenue, Poole, BH12 5BN.

On arrival use the doors for the main office – to the right of the main school doors.

Alternatively, individuals, community groups, and businesses can host their own collections to be dropped off at the head office together.

Claire continued: “If you would like to host your own collection, then we want to hear from you – we’ve got a helpful fundraising pack to support you along the

Exploring Stour & Avon...

WEST MOORS

Park in Moorlands Road at the end of the yellow lines and walk a short way east to turn left, north, along Arnold Road then left again, west, then right and right again, following signs to join the Castleman Trailway, formerly a railway line.

This takes you north east for a mile before you reach the parish boundary, the Moors river.

Once you’re past the housing estate you’ll see, on your left, fenced off Ministry of Defence land and, on your right, the West Moors Plantation, pictured.

Once past the Ministry of Defence land, there’s Access Land but it’s fenced off until you get to the far corner where

way and explain how these contributions make a huge difference in our fundraising events.”

Visit the website at diverseabilities. org.uk/presentamnesty for more details about how you can drop off your gifts or possibly to set up your own community collection.

with retired Dorset rights of way officer CHRIS SLADE

there’s a way in.

Once you’ve checked for minnows in the Moors river, turn back for 100 yards and join the track leading south east along the edge of the Plantation, which is also Access Land.

After half a mile the track bends to the right and continues south west for two thirds of a mile to the edge of the Plantation. Turn right and follow the track through heath and woodland north westwards for half a mile until you get to a housing estate.

Turn right, north for a short distance then left, north west again for nearly half a mile, then turn right, north east, for a short distance, then left and left again to meet the end of Moorlands Road about a quarter of a mile from your car.

You’ll have walked about four miles.

n Diverse Abilities wants your unwanted Christmas gifts

DocBike, a charity founded in Dorset that works to save lives on our roads has been recognised with a royal award.

DocBike has won the Prince Michael International Road Safety Award for its exceptional contribution to motorcycle injury prevention.

The awards, established in 1987 and organised by RoadSafe, recognise outstanding achievement and innovation at organisations worldwide that help to improve road safety.

DocBike works in collaboration with partners to reduce deaths and serious injuries on the UK’s roads due to motorcycle collisions.

Representatives from the charity attended a ceremony at The Savoy in London in December, above, where the award was presented by His Royal Highness Prince Michael of Kent.

Health & Wellbeing

Text for rapid child support

by Lorraine Gibson

Being a parent or carer can be challenging at times, but over the school holidays, it can be even more so.

To help, ParentLine, the caring text service run by Dorset HealthCare’s School Nursing team to support those needing advice or guidance about children has expanded its age limit from children up to five to up to 19.

Dorset Parents and carers can access help via the confidential messaging system, which has information on issues such as toileting, sleep, development, behaviour, healthy eating, mental health, bullying, school refusal and exam stress. Just text 07312 263131 and a member of the team will respond. Annalies, a parent from Upton, said: “I feel texting is easier than a phone call as my eldest child normally interrupts phone calls and I find it hard to concentrate. With a text, I can write it and send it, then give attention to my child.”

When it comes to Foster Caring what makes Footprints different?

Small, independent and trustworthy with high-quality support to all foster carers. That is the Footprints ethos. We are a strong and friendly team with outstanding values, where everyone strives to achieve the best for Foster Carers and children in care with specialist social workers on duty 24/7 to help carers in all situations, so it is effortless to pick up the phone to talk to one of the team.

Footprints was started 10 years ago by two highly experienced social workers, Vanda and Stephanie, who set out with one aim in mind, ‘to make a difference to children’s lives’. Having specialised in Fostering services for many years, the two knew that they could push boundaries to provide even higher levels of support to carers and children. It is safe to say after 10 years the two continue to stay true to their aim and ambitions having helped change the lives of over 150 children and young people by providing safety and security in the homes of Footprints Foster Carers. But don’t take our word for it! Stay tuned for some insights directly from the carers at Footprints, across a series of articles where we will delve into hot topics such as why our carers chose Footprints, the fostering community, and the following article exploring “the rewarding days as a Foster Carer”.

Juliet Singleton, from the Trust’s Children and Young People’s Service, said:

“It’s fantastic news for parents and carers that we have expanded our ParentLine age group across the county. We want to encourage anyone who needs support to text us so we can help them and provide the right advice in an easy, accessible way.”

You can seek information from 9am4pm, Monday to Friday (excludes weekends, bank holidays and school holidays), with a member of the team responding within one working day.

If you text outside these hours, you’ll receive an automated message about where to get help if you need it urgently.

ParentLine is not an emergency service, so for medical help, contact a GP, NHS 111 or 999.

For advice about children aged under five text 07312 277162. For more information visit dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/parentline.

Care home stars celebrating success

St Ives House, a Care South home situated near Ringwood has scooped the ‘Care Home of the Year’ award at the company’s annual Stars Awards ceremony.

Now in its 13th year, the Stars Awards recognise and reward individuals and teams from across the company for their outstanding achievements and excellent care provision. They are an important event during which time is taken to celebrate care staff and thank them for their frontline duties and commitment to residents. The ceremony was held live over Zoom with Care South’s chairman, Jane Stichbury and chief executive Simon Bird hosting each care home and Care South at Home office joining online and having an afternoon of celebration offline afterwards.

All Care South care homes enjoy some friendly competition and there must be a winner, but it was not an easy decision for

judges as the high-quality of care and feedback consistently received from residents and relatives is second to none. The team was delighted to be presented with the award based on a number of criteria including feedback and reviews from residents and relatives. The fundamental principles of food, fun and friendship are

ever-present in all Care South homes.

Emma Cotton, home manager at St Ives House, said: “We’re delighted to have won the award.

“The team are always going above and beyond to help residents to continue to lead rich and fulfilling lives and all our hard work has paid off. We all

love what we do and wouldn’t want to change it. Thank you to our fantastic team for helping make this happen.”

Chief executive Simon Bird added: “What a challenging year we’ve had, and our Stars Awards event is a wonderful way to highlight the commitment and hard work from all our care homes.”

Ten top tips to help prevent joint injury Health

There are many things that you can do to help prevent joint injuries and help reduce the odds of you suffering from an injury. All of this can be exactly what you need to take care of your body! Here are 10 tips to help prevent joint injury:

Stretch your joints appropriately before and after a workout.

Speak with a personal trainer/coach who can give you guidance about the right workout routine for you, given your overall levels of physical fitness and prior exercise levels.

Ensure that you do your research before exercising, making sure that you know the appropriate technique and the right way to do any such exercise.

Start slow: If you are going to do the right exercise, make sure you can complete the movement without any weight before adding slowly up.

This helps prevent overuse injury and ensures that you have a solid grasp on an exercise program’s technique before you increase the levels of exercise to something more strenuous.

Stay in shape! Remember, you are more likely to injure yourself if you are out of shape than if you have a regular exercise programme.

Make sure to be careful when engaging in regular activities, like cleaning, picking up kids, or moving furniture.

In many cases, your body may not be ready for the sudden shift in activity levels, and this can result in injury.

Use the appropriate equipment. This may mean making sure you have a back brace or high-quality shoes.

Poor equipment can break, wear down

CHIROPRACTIC & MASSAGE THERAPY TREATMENTS

We strive to give every patient the absolute best chiropractic and massage care , as well as providing outstanding customer service. We are a motivated team passionate about getting you better and enabling you to live a pain free life, getting you the best version for you !

Conditions we can treat:

• Migraines

• Lower Back Pain

• Joint Pain

• Frozen Shoulder

• Tennis Elbow

• Neck Ache

• Sports Therapy

quickly, or fail to support you at a critical moment, leading to an injury.

If you are hurt – even a little – treat it appropriately. Make sure to get the right rest, ice the area in question, and see a chiropractor if you need to.

If the pain doesn’t go away in two days then we advise people to seek some help.

If you are going to increase the intensity of your workout, do so slowly. Doing so too fast can lead to injury.

If you are new to exercise, start with low-impact exercise that can give your body time to adjust to your new exercise program.

If you do injure a joint or any other part of your body, or are interested in ensuring that you are operating at peak physical condition, consider seeing a chiropractor! If you want to book in with us then please call 01202 604707 or email admin@ wimbornewellnesscentre.co.uk.

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Giving a voice to vulnerable mothers

A team of skilled practitioners will be working across Dorset from this month to support women who have experienced, or are at risk of, repeat removals of children from their care.

South West-based charitable housing association BCHA has been successful in its application to roll out the county’s first Pause Practice.

Pause is a national charity which assists women who have had children repeatedly removed from their care, to engage in an 18-month programme of support.

Pause helps women to pause and take control of their lives, putting in place strong foundations on which they can build a more positive future for themselves. Pause aims to break transgenerational cycles and support vulnerable

women to develop a sense of self-worth with significant improvements to substance abuse, domestic violence and mental health, as well as improving contact with children and gaining access to services.

Practice lead for Pause Dorset, Rachel Young, (pictured) said: “Pause is about giving women the skills and support they need to have control over their lives and choices.

“A trauma-informed approach is central to our work which is shaped by the priorities identified by the women themselves. No two interventions look the same, as each woman is different.

“There is a huge stigma attached to women who have had children repeatedly removed from their care.

“What is not well known is that many of these women have grown up with trauma, and have been impacted by homelessness, mental health issues and domestic abuse, and have often been repeatedly let down by services.

“As soon as they are in a position whereby their child is removed, services take a step back and there is nothing there

to help them; They are completely de-valued and without addressing the underlying trauma, the woman is likely to experience repeat removals.”

She added: “We seek to address this through the person-centred plan developed for each woman.

“Pause encourages them to take a pause from pregnancy for 18 months, then picks them up, wraps services around them and enables them to gain the support they need to recover from the trauma of abuse, addiction and other behaviours which may have them trapped in that vicious circle.

“From there they can access education and training, as well as securing and sustaining housing tenancies.”

Pause Dorset aims to support 24 women in its first 18 months.

Since 2013, Pause Practices across the country have reached around 3,250 women, who have had over 8,200 children removed from their care.

Dorset Pause Programme has a vacancy for a full time Pause Practitioner to join its team. For details visit tinyurl.com/5bzhc6zx. For more information on the programme visit pause.org.uk

MOLE AND SKIN CANCER SCREENING

Dorset has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the UK! One in ten people will develop skin cancer.

Health & Wellbeing

Trees celebrated at county care home

Creative residents at a Dorset dementia care home have celebrated the importance and beauty of trees in a fun, handson seasonal nature project.

Over two months, tree-lovers who live in Colten Care’s the Aldbury in Poole gathered and prepared fallen leaves as natural decorations to ‘dress’ the cherry, apple, oak and maple trees in the home’s gardens and courtyard.

In arts and craft sessions, the

leaves were dried and carefully painted with a gentle, waterbased solution to restore their colour and lustre.

They were then mounted on hessian bunting ready to hang between branches and across the open spaces outdoors.

Accompanying the leaf decorations, residents made bird feeders with a mix of seeds, gelatine, hot water and cookie cutters.

The inspiration for the project

was the annual Tree Dressing Day, which takes place in different countries in December as autumn gives way to winter. Its aim is to encourage us to value and care for trees and recognise how they support the environment.

Melissa Siat, companionship team member at the Aldbury, said: “We asked residents how our trees should be decorated and they opted to handpick fallen leaves.

“We began gathering the leaves in October. Residents enjoyed going for autumn strolls in the garden while choosing the brightest leaves to use for the bunting.

“People’s interest continued through the craft sessions in our summer house and inside the home and of course when we finally put up the decorations. “It has been a wonderful project that everyone has enjoyed - environmentally friendly, fun, social, sensory and it has

brought our Aldbury community together.”

Resident Valerie Short said: “We wanted to keep the decorations as natural as possible and avoid using any plastic and paper. Our trees want to look as natural as they can be, decorated with their own fallen leaves.”

Fellow resident Joyce Holden said: “I loved painting real leaves and found it very relaxing and therapeutic. Our cherry tree leaves had particularly beautiful autumn colours.”

The end of the project was celebrated with a singalong session and hot chocolate all round in the garden’s Winter Café coupled with a tour of the newly-installed artworks.

Among the key messages of Tree Dressing Day is that trees improve the quality of our air, brighten our environment and support wildlife eco systems.

n Aldbury residents Valerie Short and Bob Smith hang leaf bunting and, above, Valerie Short and Companion Melissa Siat making bird seed ornaments. Bottom, Abdul ‘Hobi’ Sabih with a star-shaped maple tree leaf

When this issue comes out it will be January and Friday 13th... swiftly followed by what some have coined ‘Blue Monday’ - the day when supposedly most of us feel at our worst.

On that cheery note, let’s have a read of some happy plant talk and problem solving!

I have recently removed a dead shrub from our rear border. Not sure what it was but it was about 6 ft tall and had white flowers. Can you suggest what I might plant in it’s place? To the left is a white Rhododendron and to the right is a red Skimmia. In the front of this is a small pear tree. The border faces North with the fence at the rear.

A slightly trickier planting dilemma here; the Rhododendron and Skimmia are perfectly placed, but I assume you don’t want another of those. Both look happy though, and you mention you also have a Crinodendron, which suggests your soil is the right type for acid-loving plants. The Crinodendron you mention that could be moved I would suggest you probably wouldn’t like, they are very slow growing and wouldn’t fill the space quickly at all if it did survive the move (they aren’t keen tbh). A Hydrangea paniculata type would fit the bill here, and give you flowers at a different time to the others there (but isn’t evergreen), the size would be kept under control by the annual prune they need anyway. Something smaller would be a deciduous azalea. Alternatively a couple of evergreen options are Sarcocca (winter box), Daphne (gorgeous, expensive, slow growing!) and Skimmia. All of those evergreens will be slightly lower in height than your current shrubs (and the removed shrub) at full height. Of course you could combine 2-3 of the smaller shrubs to give you a

Hannah’s horticulture

fuller border, width permitting. I’ve read so much confusing info about Clematis and pruning, I don’t have a clue when, how and if I should prune – help!

Ah yes, Clematis are lovely but they aren’t the easiest to understand and wrongly pruned can lead to a poor flower performance or flowers in the wrong places. I will do my best to make it easy! Us horticulturists have classified clematis into 3 broad groups for the purposes of maintenance, determined by their flowering period:

Pruning Group 1: Prune midto late spring, after flowering and once the risk of frost has passed – these are all your winter flowering fellows, so if your clematis is flowering with its main flush around about now, this is the group it falls into. You don’t generally need to prune these guys unless you want to thin out or renovate prune. Just remove any spent flower heads if you have the patience!

You prune the other 2 groups in

February:

Pruning Group 2: These guys flower between May and June with large flowers. They generally don’t need much pruning; they flower on short

If you have a question for her, email:hannah.hobbschell@ outlook.com including a picture if relevant

shoots from last year’s growth so prune back to roughly where you want the next flower to be. You can prune after the first flush of flowers too in this manner to extend the flowering season.

Pruning Group 3: These guys are your later flowering fellows that bloom on long new shoots from the previous year’s growth. Prune in February down to 30cm. You can also prune back as group 2 if you like too, they will throw out shorter shoots for the second bloom of the year, but still longer that group 2!

That’s it from me, and if you need some pure January blues busting, horticultural salaciousness, dive into online and book-based seed catalogues, order those flower show tickets, and take a look at some new design ideas you might like to try!

Hannah Hobbs-Chell is a horticulturist and garden designer/consultant.

n Azalea and, inset, Clematis

I know the New Year is the time to get rid of things but I really wanted to do some papier mache with those beautiful old covers.

Still, looking on the bright side I still have the vinyl. Scouting on line I see a lot of beautiful and creative possibilities but most of them are too frail for our lively household or involve heating the vinyl or lots of chemicals, of which I steer clear.

My attention turned to sourcing a Moon phase calendar for this New Year. The moon planners seemed a trifle expensive but suddenly the two ideas fused! I can make a moon calendar with the old records.

LANGTON NURSERIES

(C W Abbott & Son)

Seed potatoes, Bare root hedging, Bird food, Perennials & Shrubs. Stockists of Kings, Franchi and Fothergill Budget Seeds, Potting Compost. Large selection of pots. Open daily 10am– 3 pm.

Long Blandford Forum Dorset DT11 9HR. Telephone 01258 452513

01935 891195

Words and pics by JO BELASCO, a former allotmenteer, forager, amateur herbalist, pickler and jam maker who squeezed her allotment greenery into her tiny garden

Spring into summer with Broadview

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Farming & Environment

A day at the farm

with Tiffany Fleming

Tiffany Fleming is a volunteer at High Mead Farm in Longham, Ferndown.

High Mead Farm is a working farm run to promote the benefits of engaging with animals, soil, and nature. They ‘create purposeful roles for our co-farmers, young people and adults alike, to help bring about a sense of well-being and self-worth that many have never experienced before’.

Happy New Year! Now, I don’t know about you, but, these days, I’m cautious about wishing people a Happy New Year, which is a great shame as I do genuinely hope that your year is full of good things. However, it seems a little glib and disingenuous against a backdrop of the rising cost of living, international conflict, strikes and disputes dominating the news; not to mention the seemingly endless days of grey skies and persistent rain! Perhaps not the start to a new year that any of us would wish for.

But when, occasionally, the sun breaks though the cloud or there is a little good news, we are reminded that however challenging things may seem,

there is always a little comfort to be had.

I, for one, was pleased to welcome January, there is nothing quite like getting back into a routine.

After the extravagance of the seasonal break, it is good to be reminded of life’s simple pleasures; picking produce, patting a pig or two, snuggling in front of the Day Room woodburner listening to the chatter of excitable Co-farmers as they catch up on all the Farm’s news. Not that there is a great deal to catch up on.

Not much has happened since the Farm closed for Christmas, but we volunteers are lucky, as we still get to share in the Farm’s activities even when the gates are shut.

WANTED

An Embden Toulouse goose for a lonely gander called David who lost his wife to a fox. 07901 344603 / 01258 840016

Stockman / General Farm Worker required full time on modern dairy/arable farm near Shaftesbury.

Phone: 07711 281703 / 07901 344603 / 01258 840016

Over the break we have delighted in videos of the ponies letting off steam on a visit to a bigger pasture - they’ve clearly been missing their regular walks out - enjoyed countless pictures of the High Mead’s contented cats, who seem to have doubled in size over the break, and celebrated the successful results of our pre-Christmas activities. One such event was the last

Quiz Night of 2022, which raised a whopping £860.00 to fund the Tardis, a mobile book/ CD/DVD exchange for the Co-farmers to enjoy (once they have built it, which is where the real fun comes in).

We’ve also loved hearing from the local businesses and neighbours who, rather than send Christmas cards, donated their ‘card funds’ to the

Pictures: TIFFANY FLEMING

Farm; we are so very lucky to have such committed supporters, especially during these tough times.

Our Last Open Day of the year was also a great success, despite an appalling

downpour on the day. It was certainly a great demonstration of the stoic commitment of our volunteers!

And, to mark the end of the year, we received a much-welcomed donation

Farming & Environment

presented to us from the Lodge of Meridian 6582 by Almoner Brother Rob Bury. If we are half as lucky in 2023 as we were last year, we will be a very happy High Mead indeed.

ENERGY SAVING GUIDANCE FOR OLDER BUILDINGS

Proud as you might be to live in a Listed or historic property, doing so often comes with high running costs. Richard Mogg of Symonds & Sampson’s Survey & Design department has reviewed energy-saving guidance for older buildings recently released by Historic England. The report is based on evidence that has been gathered from the Listed Building Owners and Occupiers Survey undertaken by BMG Research, and YouGov research into the views of people living in listed buildings and non-listed traditionally built properties built more than 100 years ago.

Research revealed that

• 89% of residents are proud to live in a listed building and look after their homes.

• 27% of people living in older properties have already made changes to their roperty to reduce its energy and carbon usage.

• A further 42% would like to make these changes.

• 90% of those surveyed are committed to addressing climate change and energy

- most having already installed low - energy lighting and thermostats to boilers and radiators.

• 23% of owners and occupiers find keeping warm in winter difficult, and of those

• 45% are concerned about the cost of making changes, and

• 33% are concerned about the perceived complexity of retrofitting and

• 54% suggest it would be difficult to find reliable guidance and information about how to retrofit their home – very much an area where Symonds & Sampson’s surveyors can assist.

Speaking of the findings, Catherine Dewar, Historic England’s Climate Change Programme Director, said: “People living in older properties – whether they are listed or not – are rightly proud of their home’s heritage, but they have told us that they need more advice on how to keep warm and comfortable in an affordable way, and play their part in getting to Net Zero by 2050. Our refreshed website guidance will help but there is much more to do to provide the information that people need to

make these changes to their homes”. Building Surveyor Richard Mogg agrees. “Finding a way to improve the efficiency of a listed building can seem daunting. On the one hand, you want to preserve the heritage of property for future generations, whilst on the other hand, living more sustainably and – particularly in the current economic climate - efficiently is at the forefront of our minds. There are steps that can be taken to improve the efficiency of older homes, some of which can be carried out without the need for planning permission, and we are only too pleased to visit your property to discuss steps that can be taken”. Richard and his colleagues within Symonds & Sampson’s specialist Survey & Design Department can help identify steps that can be taken, consents required, and even oversee the project if you so wish.

For first-hand advice on how to address the efficiency of your home, please contact them at the Wimborne Office on 01202 882103

Photograph - The iconic Grade 11 Listed Deheers building on the harbourside in Weymouth, designed and converted to the highest specification by DJ Property and sold through Symonds & Sampson’s Poundbury Office.

Arts & Entertainments

by Lorraine Gibson

Following sell-out runs at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, extensive touring in the UK and beyond and even an appearance on Channel 4’s Bake Off: An Extra Slice, award-winning comedian George Egg returns to Dorset this month with his unique and utterly absurd comedy show, Set Menu – The Best of George Egg. Part comedy show, part cooking show, it’s all about George, the comedian who cooks, albeit using the most unlikely of ‘utensils’.

George has toured with three shows and rustled-up more than a thousand dishes to date, all in front of live audiences and without a kitchen in sight.

Instead, the food is cooked in highly unorthodox and entertaining ways, presented with the maverick cook’s natural ability for storytelling and chef-y flair. It’s different, it’s inspiring, and it completely spans genres.

Expect the best bits, most delicious jokes, and the funniest food as three meals are cooked live. You can even try them at the end!

Friday, January 27, Yetminster Jubilee Hall, Sherborne; Saturday, January 28, Burton Bradstock Village hall; Sunday, January 29, Lytchett matravers Village hall - all 7.30pm.

More information at georgeegg.com.

Last chance to see panto, oh yes it is!

All Saints’ Dramatic Society is back again this month with another fun family pantomimethis year it’s Dick Whittington. But you’ll need to get your ice skates on.

We join our young hero as he heads for London with his companion Tom Cat, seeking fame, fortune and maybe love, whilst aiming to become ‘thrice Lord Mayor of London’. Can he convince the wealthy Alderman Fitzwarren of his honesty and his suitability for the hand of Fitzwarren’s spirited daughter Alice?

The society has recently moved to its new home at Corpus Christi Parish Centre in Parkwood Road, within level walking distance of Pokesdown train station and offering ample free parking very close to the hall.

The final performances are today (Friday), tomorrow and Sunday, with full details on the website at: allsaintsdramaticsociety.co.uk They recognise the pinch many families are feeling in this ‘cost of living crisis’ and as such

are offering a great discount on a family ticket: just £35 for two adults and two children (evenings only). For tickets, go to ticketsource.co.uk/asds

Arts & Entertainments

by Lorraine Gibson

American close harmony singing group Windborne will be bringing their gorgeously melodic sound to Dorset via local charity Artsreach this month.

Not only will the vocal quartet be performing but they will also be hosting a workshop for any budding vocalists ahead of the show.

Hailing from New England, Windborne specialises in meticulously-tight harmony singing, shifting effortlessly from a raft of dramatically different styles of traditional music.

Their melodic knowledge spans continents and cultures, yet remains deeply rooted in American folk singing traditions.

In the special vocal harmony workshop, they will teach songs from their albums Song On The Times and Of Hard

Times & Harmony, alongside folk songs from other cultures collected on their travels.

All the songs and harmonies will be taught by ear by the singers - Jeremy, Lynn, Will and Lauren.

The workshop is from 5pm-6pm. Cost

£5. Suitable for all ages, no previous experience required.

Takeaway food will be available to purchase at the venue, Wootton Fitzpaine Village Hall, from 6pm, ahead of the concert at 7:30pm. Thursday, January 19. Visit: windbornesingers.com.

Learn how to achieve perfect harmony Have fun at community choir evenings

Every year the local Vocal Fun community choirs select a charity to support with their concerts, writes Ron Bolton.

In 2022 the charity selected was Parkinson’s UK.

The concerts held at St Mary’s Church in Ferndown and Queen Elizabeth’s School in Wimborne raised a total of £3,400.

The cheque for Parkinson’s was presented to Bob and Lindsey Oliver from Parkinson’s at a recent ladies choir rehearsal at St Nicholas Church, Corfe Mullen.

This year Vocal Fun will be supporting the charity FND (Functional Neurological Disorder) a not-so-well-known condition.

The ladies and mixed choirs will be performing their combined charity concerts in July at the

Barrington Theatre in Ferndown.

The choirs are looking for additional members and are throwing open their rehearsals for new people interested in joining our very friendly and fun community choirs.

Just come along to either the ladies choir rehearsals at Corfe Mullen or the mixed choir’s rehearsals at the Barrington Centre, and make new friends and have a great sing-song together. There are no auditions and you do not need to be able to read music.

The ladies choir rehearses at 7.30pm on a Monday at St Nicholas Church, Corfe Mullen, and the mixed choir rehearsals are at 7.30pm on a Wednesday at the Beacon Centre, St Marys Church, Ferndown.

Visit vocalfun.co.uk for more information.

n The ladies Vocal Fun Choir and, below, Ron Bolton and Lynne Turner of Vocal Fun present the cheque for £3,400 to Bob and Lindsey Oliver of the Poole and District Branch of Parkinson’s UK

Marriage comedy that hides darker message

One of the 20th century’s classic comedies of manners comes to the Tivoli Theatre in February when Wimborne Drama Productions will perform Bedroom Farce by Alan Ayckbourn.

Funny, gripping and acutely observed, Alan Ayckbourn’s play lifts the lid on the secrets of marriage. Over the course of one hilarious night, an outrageously selfish couple parade their problems around the bedrooms of three other couples, exposing the cracks in other people’s marriages as well as their own.

Directed by Michelle Barter and Suzanne Viney, the play stars Richard Scotson and Rosie Nye as Trevor and Susannah, Tim Fearon and Judy Garrett as Ernest and Delia, James Renwick and Bethan Morris as Malcolm and Kate, and Colin Pile and Julie Sissons as Nick and Jan.

Wimborne Drama Productions have chosen to revive the play which marked their first-ever production at the then recently re-opened Tivoli Theatre in 1994.

Publicity manager Richard Neal explained the attraction of revisiting the play: “Bedroom Farce never dates. It shows Alan Ayckbourn at his very best. He presents what you think is a safe and cosy suburban comedy. “But scratch the surface and something darker emerges. “What is also so brilliant about the play is that almost every married man or woman in the audience will identify with at least one of the characters.”

Bedroom Farce will be performed at the Tivoli Theatre from February 23 to 25, with evening performances at 7.30pm (tickets £16) and a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm (tickets £14). Book via the Tivoli Box Office on 01202 885566 or online at tivoliwimborne.co.uk (booking fees may apply).

See movies with bite on the big screen

by Lorraine Gibson

An eclectic feast of classic films on 35mm film is coming to the Regent as Dirt in the Gate Movies - Dorset’s specialist 35mm film exhibitorspresents a new programme of muchloved celluloid favourites in all their original glory.

Forget watching era-defining cinematic treasures such as Jaws or Cinema Paradiso on DVD in your lounge and see them as they were intended to be seen, at the cinema, on the big screen with all the colours, sounds and details that made them so acclaimed in the first place.

After a screening of the celebrated 1980 comedy, Airplane!, starring Leslie Nielson, earlier this month, next up is James Cameron’s The Abyss (15) on Friday, February 10, offering film fans

a rare chance to see his 1989 Special Edition version of the tense alien thriller.

Sent to recover nuclear weapons from a sunken US submarine, a team of deep-sea oil riggers and Navy Seals discovers alien life in this watery adventure which, despite originally underperforming at the box-office on its theatrical release, has gone on to earn critical success and is now recognised as a major technical achievement.

Director Cameron’s extended cut plays up its cold war context and restores his intended ending, so don’t miss this opportunity to experience it on 35mm for one day only.

Tickets £10.

Other films in the schedule include RoboCop and Logan’s Run. Watch this space for dates.

You’ll be all shook up... with laughter

by Lorraine

Gibson

Dorset touring arts charity Artsreach will continue to bring professional performances to village halls, pubs and community spaces across the county throughout 2023 with the launch of its new spring programme. Featuring 29 artists and companies who’ll perform 59 live dates in 42 rural locations with the support of the Arts Council England and Dorset Council, rural venues across Dorset will host a variety of live music, theatre, dance, storytelling, poetry, family shows and more, right in the heart of their communities.

This weekend, it’s time to shake the dust off your favourite tropical shirt and escape to paradise as new musical comedy, Elvis

In Blue Hawaii, from Spitz & Co, comes to town. Expect mayhem, masses of audience interaction and all the best-loved Elvis songs as award-winning Elvis impersonator Joe Reeve (Best Sideburns, GlosVegas 2014) stars in his version of the classic Elvis film, while his long-time tour manager, Josephine Cunningham keeps the show on the road - where the next stop’s Vegas.

“The funniest and silliest thing I’ve ever seen – pure joy”

Stagetalk Magazine

Today, Friday, January 13, Sandford Village Hall 7.30pm.

Saturday, January 14, Buckland newton Village hall, 8pm.

Sunday, January 15, The Allednale Centre, Wimborne, 7.30pm. Visit artsreach.co.uk and spitzandco.com.

Sound of silents from a bygone era

Sonic Shorts Of Frank Borzage is a unique and fascinating show featuring champion fiddler Kate Lissauer that pays homage to the titular Borzage, one of early Hollywood’s most distinctive early directors whose films, 7th Heaven (1927) and Bad Girl (1931) earned him two coveted Best Director Academy Awards. In this absorbing glimpse of a bygone age, two of his original and mesmerising silent movie shorts are brought vividly to life, accompanied by an original score performed by Lissauer and two fellow-musicians who make up the trio, Sonic Silents.

The Pitch o Chance and The Pilgrim are both adventure films that evoke a world of hobos, travelling men, cowboys and adventurous women, and the moral and practical dilemmas to which their precarious lives will lead them.

Sonic Silents play gorgeous old-time country and bluegrass with Lissauer, also leader of The Buffalo Gals, fiddlingnaturally - alongside Leon Hunt, regarded as the country’s best five-string banjo player and Jason Titley, one of the UK’s finest Bluegrass guitarists.

With music ranging from lively to melancholy, it’s a poignant revelation of what were often hard-lives of days gone by.

katelissauer.com/sonic-silents.

Saturday, January, 21, Winterborne Stickland, Pamela Hambro Hall.

Sunday, January 22, Studland Village hall, both at 7.30pm. Visit artsreach.co.uk for more details.

HILARIOUS: Joe Reeve as Elvis Presley

Do you enjoy humming along to your favourite songs? Would you like to take your singing a step further by joining a choir?

Viva Voce is an award-winning choir, who just love to sing! Our weekly rehearsals are a mixture of fun, laughter and heart-lifting harmonies. We perform a really diverse range of songs - from pop to musicals to classical – and share our love of music throughout the community, supporting local charities, and bringing cheer to folk wherever they may be.

Viva Voce at St Aldhelms Xmas Tree Festival If you are tempted to find out more then why not spend an evening with us?

Come along, enjoy a cup of tea and some cake, chat with our friendly team and discover if you want to take that next step!

We rehearse 7:30pm – 9:30 every Thursday evening at Broadstone Memorial Hall. Tudor Road, Broadstone BH18 8AW Why not contact us now and begin your 2023 with something new, just for you! For further contact details and to send us a message please visit our website www.vivavoce.xyz/contact

Part time position in our lingerie department. Wednesdays, Fridays, and every other Saturday. Also, position available for a person to look after our Social media and online sales

If you have a passion for fashion and lingerie, please apply by email to shop@shirleyallum.co.uk or pop into the shop and see Shirley Allum for more information.

30 High Street, Shaftesbury, SP 7 8JG

www.burwood.care Probably the best nursing home pub in the world... ARE RECRUITING We have availability for a number of interesting roles within our care home. If you are considering a change in your career or a move within care and you have the necessary passion and enthusiasm then please come and see us. We’d love to hear from you. And if you also enjoy singing, dancing and acting we also have our own theatre!

01202

P/T Administrative Assistant required to join small busy team for varied office tasks supporting property managers and family business situated close to Gillingham, flexible working hours. Please apply with covering letter and CV to: forwarddevelopmentsltd@gmail.com

Wincanton Town Council is seeking to

Wincanton Town Council is seeking to appoint a motivated Responsible Financial Officer/Deputy Clerk to support the Town Clerk and Councillors in achieving their aims and aspirations for the parish of Wincanton. The role will compliment that of the Town Clerks supporting an ambitious Town Council.

Salary Scale: LC3 SCP 33-36 £39,493 - £42,503 pro rata (depending on experience and qualifications) plus Local Government Pension Scheme. The role is for 15-21 hours (2-3 days) to be discussed with the correct candidate.

Walford Mill is a charity which promotes education in craft and art by providing workshop space to teach and learn in, exhibition space and studios for local Makers to rent and sell from.

We are looking for someone to coordinate the day to day operation of the Mill, liaise with the resident Makers, deal with enquiries, coordinate volunteers and help with promotion of the Mill.

Hours: 20 hours per week

For further information see the full job description at www.walfordmillcrafts.co.uk

Applications should be made by emailing your CV to admin@walfordmillcrafts.co.uk

Closing date for applications is 28 th January 2023

Recruitment

A Certificate in Local Council Administration (CiLCA) qualification is required as a minimum, or a willingness to achieve this within 12 months of commencing the role. For an informal discussion about this role please contact the Town Clerk, Emma Curtis on 01963 31693 or email townclerk@wincantontowncouncilgov.uk. The full recruitment pack can be found on the Town Council website www.wincantontowncouncil.gov.uk.

The Blackmore Vale Ltd continues to enjoy great success and we are looking for an experienced Account Manager

You will be managing a regular client base as well as generating new business selling into various magazines. Previous sales experience is required and you should be hungry for success.

The role is a hybrid of working from home/office and out and about within the Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire areas. You must own your own vehicle – a mileage allowance is paid.

Previous sales experience

Hungry for success

Hours are Monday to Friday 9am – 5.30pm. Salary is dependent on experience.

If you’ve got what it takes to be part of this fantastic team, please send your application to debi.thorne@blackmorevale.net

Closing date for applications is Friday 27th January 2023.

Part time Site Coordinator needed for Walford Mill Crafts Wimborne

It’s been a cracker of a ride for Ross Allison.

Just 12 months ago the 31-year-old launched his own motorcycle business –Rotate Motorcycles – after quitting his fulltime job of 15-plus years at Bournemouth Kawasaki.

As with all new businesses it was a gamble and not without risk.

In Ross’s case he had sunk around £90,000 into his new venture.

But, as he said at the time: “The time was right, especially after turning 30.

“While it’s a little scary, my gut feeling was that it’s a case of do or die and I know I can sell bikes.”

And that has certainly proved the case. His target was 150 sales over the course of the first year.

In fact, he’s done more than 250. Turnover for the 12 months is around £1.6million.

Ross said: “Realistically I didn’t think that would happen. I’ve never put any pen to paper. It was purely self-belief.

“I’d done such a long time with my old dealership and really learned the ropes from the top people there.

“I’ve just kept my head down and done the steps that needed to be done.”

The sales have ranged from scooters, costing £2,000, to a Ducati Panigale V4 SP which retails for upwards of £35,000, and everything in between.

As a trained mechanic, Ross is able to carry out services on bikes before handover, ensuring every one is prepared and warranted.

His knowledge also helps with the sourcing of bikes, from private customers through to dealerships.

Ross, who operates from a unit in Parley, said: “When I started, the aim was to have 15 bikes online at any one time and I had about 20.

“Now I generally have 25 bikes online at a particular point and hold close to 40. “I use a lot of couriers, but I also deliver myself.

“I’ve had customers on the Isle of Man, loads in Scotland as well as Northern and Southern Ireland and the rest of the country.”

To date, Rotate Motorycles has 109 5-star reviews on AutoTrader and 33 5-star reviews on Google.

Ross said: “It’s really good that a lot have called me out and said I’m

First year as his own boss is a belter for biker Ross

enthusiastic about bikes.

“They could tell from my attitude that I was grateful and wanted their business.”

This month, experienced technician Sam Thompson joins the business in what Ross admits will be a big step.

He said: “Sam has a racing background with motorcycles and at British Championship level.

“He has lots of experience and is wellknown in the area. It’s a bit of a leap to take Sam on but he’s quite excited and so am I.

“When I set up, a lot of people thought he’d be the natural person for the business.

“Sam will be involved in every bike that comes in and out and also collecting and buying stock.”

As for the future, Ross, who has a three a half year old son Freddie, with his partner Ellen, said: “I don’t really have a five-year plan.

“I do one year at a time and then assess.

“I’m proud of how far the business has come but I also feel the pressure.

“Everyone in the bike trade has been very congratulatory and it feels like now it can’t go wrong.

“My head is definitely on the block. I’ve probably created that myself because I’m all over Instagram and Facebook.

“People say: ‘You’re absolutely flying mate’.

“I’m probably not flying any more than others but their Instagram and social media is perhaps not as up to date as mine.

“I think social media has done the business good and the reputation has grown quicker from it.

“I don’t have any regrets. Sometimes I think it would be nice to go home and not worry about it but it hasn’t got in the way of family life.

“Freddie also loves it in here.

“I say to him ‘what are you going to do when you go out to work’ and he says, ‘fix it, silly’.

Andrew Diprose is the founder and editor of dorsetbiznews. co.uk

QUICK RIDE: Ross Allison, director of Rotate Motorcycles

Ltd, ‘I’m proud of how far the business has come but I also feel the pressure’

Picture: DORSET BIZ NEWS

Building firm praised for ‘fabulous job’

by Andrew Diprose

A building company has been thanked for ‘a fabulous job’ after completing a major project for one of Dorset’s oldest independent funeral directors.

The extensive 70-week contract by Greendale Construction Limited was completed over two phases at Douch Family Funeral Directors’ Ferndown branch, A E Jolliffe & Son.

The work included the demolition and removal of a number of dilapidated outbuildings, service buildings and a chapel.

A new 460 square metre block includes a state of the art Ceremony Room featuring slatted timber acoustic ceiling and sophisticated lighting and audio visual. It is served by a large kitchen/catering area with a bespoke movable wall to partition off the two rooms when required.

There is also hearse and funeral vehicle garaging as well as staff areas and funeral back of house facilities.

Greendale Construction also extended

and refurbished the original house on the premises at 17 Victoria Road.

Major external works were undertaken to create a new garden area, car parking and fencing along with landscaping features using oak sleeper planting areas and porous paving.

Rob Hooker, director at Greendale, said: “This was a great key project to work on. “We enjoyed a collaborative relationship with our clients and design teams to complete this wonderful development.

“This was our second contract with Douch after successfully completing the major renovation of its Lesley Shand branch at Corfe Mullen in 2018.

“My thanks go to the fantastic Greendale team and all who worked on the project.

“We wish Douch and their staff every success in their amazing new facilities for the future.”

Managing director Nick Douch said: “This has been a major project and will benefit the community for many years to come.

“Our staff have been superb during the building work, managing to keep an

Business offering free cyber security

Charities and small businesses offering legal-aid services are among organisations that can secure 20 hours of free cyber security through Dorsetheadquartered C3IA Solutions. It can enable them to gain the Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials-Plus certification, the minimum standards recommended by the Government.

The free engineering and support are being funded through the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and IASME, the accreditation body for the Cyber Essentials Scheme.

C3IA Solutions, which is based in Poole, is assured by the NCSC and an IASME accredited certification body and has helped more than 150 regional organisations to become more cyber-secure. Small businesses and charities continue to come under attack from cyber criminals with reports that 31 per cent of businesses and 26 per cent of charities estimate they were

attacked at least once a week. One in five businesses and charities said they experienced a negative outcome as a direct consequence of a cyber-attack, while more than a third of businesses and almost four in ten charities experienced at least one negative impact.

Jim Hawkins, from C3IA Solutions, said: “This support is aimed at small charities and legal-aid providers because we know that they provide valuable services to society but may not have the resources or expertise needed.

“We are hoping that these types

of organisations in Dorset will make the most of the engineering and cyber support offered.

“In many cases the 20 hours will be enough for the organisation to gain their Cyber Essentials or Cyber Essentials Plus certificates.

“These give a basic level of protection and are recommended by the Government. If 20 hours isn’t enough then we can get the organisation as far as we can.

“To check if an organisation qualifies for the free cybersecurity they need to drop us a line or phone our office and we’ll be able to confirm whether they fulfil the criteria.” c3ia.co.uk.

Xero, Sage and Quickbooks training on site, at home or via Zoom. Visit businesshubservices. co.uk.

Telephone 07926 499295.

CYBER SECURITY: Jim Hawkins of C3IA Solutions

Wealth management firm to host ‘Financial Fitness’ surgeries

Peter Harding Wealth Management (PHWM) is to run weekly ‘Financial Fitness’ surgeries at West Hants Tennis Club in Bournemouth. The surgeries will launch on January 23, with further surgeries taking place on January 30, (10.00am2.00pm) with afternoon surgery bookings available at the club on February 3, 10, 17 and 24 (12.00pm – 4.00pm).

Marketing director Julian Barrett said: “As the business is an official sponsor of West Hants Club, it was an obvious choice of venue.

“There will be a financial expert from Peter Harding Wealth Management on site to chat to club members and others in the locality about topics including: Pension planning (for people approaching retirement and those already in retirement), tax planning (including inheritance tax planning), and also tips on

investment management in a climate of increasing inflation and taxation.

Established in 1993, PHWM has high street offices situated in Canford Cliffs, Sherborne and Shaftesbury as well as Corsham in Wiltshire.

PHWM has been awarded the prestigious Chartered Financial Planners designation by the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII). This is the industry’s gold standard for firms of financial planners.

It confirms that they have satisfied rigorous qualification criteria by retaining highly-qualified staff who subscribe to the membership conditions of the CII.

It also involves a commitment to continuing professional development and adherence to an industry standard code of ethics.

Only the UK’s premier financial planning firms qualify for Chartered status.

Liz is totally appointed chamber ambassador

Liz Hutchings, founder of digital marketing and news brand Total Guide to has been appointed as an ambassador for the Dorset Chamber of Commerce & Industry for 2023.

This appointment comes just two years after Liz launched her platform Total Guide to Poole – and the Total Guide to brand is now visible across seven urban areas in the UK. “I’m delighted to be asked to take on this ambassadorship over the next year.

“We are blessed in Poole and Dorset with a really supportive business community and there’s never been a more important time for businesses to come together.

“I’ve already been connecting local businesses from all sectors and introducing them to the benefits of being a Chamber member, so I’m honoured to be doing this now officially.

“I’m in great company with my fellow ambassadors and I’m really looking forward to working with them and Dorset Chamber to

further support during what is going to be a testing few years ahead.”

Chamber chief executive Ian Girling announced Liz’s role which will involve promoting Chamber activity, supporting and connecting members and guests, welcoming them at face to face and virtual events, attending board meetings and the annual

“I’m delighted to welcome Liz as a Dorset Chamber Ambassador.

“Our ambassadors play a vital role in supporting the work of the Chamber in the business community and I know Liz will make an outstanding contribution as a great supporter and active member.”

This role is natural for Liz as she’s always encouraged

a collaborative approach to business and honoured the value of communities which work together towards success and sustainability.

She said: “Total Guide to is all about community and it was from day one.

“I moved to Poole with my family a few years ago and could not have imagined how quickly I’d be recognised for running a heart-centred, community-led digital news platform.

“Coming from Swindon where my business began, it’s been wonderful to be embraced by a new community and to be able to share community spirit between us all.”

TGt is a franchise business established by Liz back in 2012 with its parent site in Swindon and it also now has platforms in Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Reading and Manchester with more franchisees being considered for other cities and large towns nationwide.

Liz is also a qualified franchise professional and is experienced at operating ethically in the franchise world.

Pets

Welcome Winnie to your home

Hello, I am Winnie. I am a 10-year-old Cairn terrier cross. I came in from the pound. I love people but I need to be the only dog in my new home. I have some nerve damage which affected my back legs and am a little unsteady and sometimes fall over.

I am independent minded, but I do appreciate a little help at times. When I stumble, I am happy to get back up and continue to potter around the garden. I love treats, enjoy cuddles and being a sassy little girl. Help with my veterinary fees may be available when using our vets. If you are able to offer me or one of my lovely friends a forever home or a foster home, please

contact our office on 01202 875000, e-mail: admin@waggytails.org. uk or visit our website www. waggytails.org.uk. Waggy Tails Rescue are in need of more foster homes. If you are at home most of the time, have a secure garden and experienced with dogs then please give us a ring and discuss fostering for us. It is a very rewarding experience and enables us to continue helping these dogs (no children under 10 in the house please).

We also find homes for other small furries that may be in our care, so to find out more please contact us as above.

Robbie quits the rat race to focus on pets

by Andrew Diprose

He’s had a varied career, ranging from the Army and the pharmaceutical industry to running his own businesses and, most recently, insurance.

But Robbie Brown has decided now is the perfect time to change course and focus on his one true love – pets.

He’s the newest franchisee for the pet care provider, Petpals, which has expanded to Christchurch.

His new business will support the growing demand for pet services in the area.

Robbie said: “I had enough of the corporate world and felt it was time for a change.

“I quit the rat race and decided to do something for myself and my love of animals.

“I’ve been a pet owner all my life, so I understand how owners place importance on caring for their four-legged friends.

“I am fully aware of how rewarding pets are for their owners, but how time-consuming and restricting they can be, particularly in the current economic climate.

“Now, by launching Petpals Christchurch, I can combine my two passions of looking after pets and running a business.”

Robbie is fully trained, insured, uniformed and DBS checked.

He’s covering Christchurch, Highcliffe, Mudeford, Bransgore and surrounding areas in his branded van, delivering Petpals’ pet care.

Petpals is the UK’s longest-established petsitting and pet-care specialist.

It offers a range of bespoke and awardwinning services from dog walking and pet sitting to pet taxis in its branded vans. The company has more than 150 locations across the UK and a dedicated head office team to support franchisees such as Robbie. He said: “When looking for the right pet

franchise to invest in, I could see that Petpals stood head and shoulders above the rest.

“From the initial training to the ongoing support, all the steps were in place to ensure I was ready and raring to go.

“My partner also knows another franchisee in Bournemouth who loves it and is really successful.

“I was fully trained in pet handling and behaviour, pet first aid, elderly pet care and pet sanitation before launching my Petpals business.

“I even got to spend a day looking after cats and dogs as part of my training – what’s not to love?

“It just reaffirmed that it was the right thing for me.”

According to the pets’ charity PDSA – the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals – an estimated 51 per cent of UK adults own a dog or a cat.

Just over quarter, 27 per cent, have a dog, with an estimated population of 10.2 million pet dogs.

Cat-lovers account for 24 per cent of UK adults with an estimated population of 11.1 million pet cats.

Robbie said: “I’m really driven to respond to the demand for quality services for the pet loving community in our area.

“Our range of services will be personally tailored to our customers’ requirements and include pet home visits, dog walking, cat sitting, dog sitting, dog visits, puppy care, elderly dog care, pet taxi and pet to vet.

“All with the aim of providing local pets with the same love and affection

“As a dad to a terrier and two experience I would want for Christchurch’s range of pet

Events at Wimborne library

Wimborne Library has released its regular events for 2023: Cuppa and Company every Monday 10:30am – 12:30pm.

Join us for a warm welcome and a cuppa!

Knit and Natter every Friday 2pm—4pm. Bring your knitting and have a cuppa!

Reminiscence with the Museum of East Dorset on the last Thursday of the month, 2pm – 3pm.

Share stories and memories within our welcoming group.

Family History a bookable 1-1 session on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month from 2.15pm—3.15pm, to use and learn Ancestry online.

Digital Support sessions every Tuesday morning. A bookable 30-minute session for 1-1 digital help with basic use of your computer, tablet, or smartphone.

Rhymetime bookable under 5’s session, Fridays 9:45am-10:15am (term time).

Fun with Lego every Saturday 9.30am-3:45pm.

Creation Station every Friday 3pm—5pm and Saturday 9:30am –3:45pm.

A weekly craft to make and take. All events are free, and everyone is welcome. To book a spot, call 01202 882770.

KELLY Audrey May

Passed away peacefully on 29th November 2022 at Ferndown Manor Care Home aged 93 years. Devoted Wife to the late Leonard George Kelly. Loved by all who knew her.

A Verwood resident for many years.

Enquiries to Nicholas O’Hara Funeral Directors Verwood 01202 824961

Being prepared can help safety

by Lorraine Gibson

Bravo if you’ve decided to get out walking or jogging to chase away the winter blues or to combat the adverse effects of too much Christmas and new year overindulgence - but it pays to consider your safety, especially if going it alone.

The Suzy Lamplugh Trust has these commonsense tips to help you increasing your personal safety while out running: Let someone know where you’re going and for how long.

Consider downloading a running tracker app on which a trusted family member or friend can trace your movements.

Plan your route before-hand, taking into account whether it will be a busy or welllit area.

Consider running with others if possible, or joining a running group.

Think about carrying a personal alarm, to enable you to get away from an attacker by distracting them.

Have just one earphone in to ensure you can hear any changes in your surroundings.

If running when it is dark, carry a torch - a head torch is a good hands-free option.

If running in the dark along the road, wear reflective clothing so that road users can easily see you.

Carry a small amount of cash, or your card, to enable you to get home should you need to.

If you feel uncomfortable, or at risk, seek a place of safety, such as a shop or anywhere where there are other people, and tell someone what is happening or has happened.

The Suzy Lamplugh Trust wishes to clarify that this advice and the general personal safety advice provided on its web pages is not intended to suggest that taking such actions

will eliminate incidents of aggression and violence.

The guidance merely helps people better understand how to assess and mitigate risks to their personal safety.

The information may therefore be used as the preliminary steps one can take to either conduct risk planning, where possible in specific contexts, or alert others.

The advice is also embedded in the wider advocacy work the trust does to address the root causes of violence and aggression across society.

Ladies choose to support Foundation

The Ladies Captain at Ferndown Golf Club has chosen the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation as her charity of support for 2023, writes Pete Thornton Julie wanted to work with a local charity as opposed to a large national charity and was impressed by the work that the Foundation do and the opportunities they provide for young people in the local community.

The Foundation says it is is honoured to have been chosen by the Ladies Captain at he South West’s premier 27-hole heathland golf course, and they are looking forward to an exciting year ahead.

Julie said: “When I was looking for a charity to support, something about the Foundation and the work they do with young people resonated with me.

“On meeting Pete and Linda

my decision was cemented. “I am really looking forward to working with them over the

coming 12 months.”

Shortly after announcing her chosen charity, Julie and her

team organised a fabulous Christmas Fayre in support.

It was a spectacular event with an incredible array of Christmas gifts, goodies, decorations, jewellery, handbags, glitzy outfits and shoes, everything you could possibly need for the seasonal celebrations.

The members and guests were extremely generous, and the event tremendously well supported.

Without the support of people like Julie and her club, the Foundation wouldn’t be able to do the great work that it does with young people who need our support now more than ever before.

We can’t thank Julie and her team enough, as this partnership will make a huge difference to the opportunities that the Foundation can provide going forward.

CHOSEN: Pete Thornton with Julie Richardson, Ladies Captain at Ferndown Golf Club

CANFORD

Sam’s Newsagent

Hearnes Estate Agent

Hungry One M & S Food Hall

High Mead Farm

Ferndown Library

Barrington Centre

FORDINGBRIDGE

Londis Petrol Station

FURZEHILL Village Stores

GUSSAGE ALL SAINTS

Phone Box

GUSSAGE ST MICHAEL Edward ARG Works

HAMWORTHY Library

HINTON MARTEL Phone Box

HORTON Horton Inn

HURN Adventure Wonderland

LYTCHETT

MATRAVERS

Library Plants Direct Tesco

MERLEY Shop

PAMPHILL Farm Shop

RINGWOOD

Greyfriars Community Centre

Lunns of Ringwood

Crow Farm Shop

Texaco Petrol Station

In Excess Garden Centre

Ringwood Information Centre

McCalls/Morrisons

TARRANT RAWSTON

Cart Shed

TUCKTON

Nisa

Tesco Express

THREE LEGGED CROSS

Woolsbridge Farm Feeds

Hillier Garden Centre Londis

UPTON

Lytchett & Upton Council Library

VERWOOD

Verwood Heritage Centre

Verwood Library Andrews Butchers

Co -op Southern Tesco Express Hubb Library Morrisons

WEST MOORS

Spar/ Post Office Library

WEST PARLEY Basket and Blooms In Excess Herbies Fish and Chips WIMBORNE McColls

Allendale House T & S News

Long Johns Fish and Chips

COLEHILL

One Stop

Colehill Library St Michaels Church Hall

CORFE MULLEN

Holme Bush Inn

Naked Cross Nurseries Co-op

Candy’s Farm Shop Library

CRANBORNE

Cranborne Stores

CRITCHEL

Bus Shelter

DAMERHAM

Crossways Farm

EDMONDSHAM

Bus Shelter

FERNDOWN

McCalls

Spar

Ferndown Post Office Iceland

SANDLEHEATH

Sandleheath Village Stores

SHAPWICK Shirley

SPETISBURY

Village Hall Box

Clampets Farm

STANBRIDGE

Aunt Fannys Farm Shop

STAPEHILL

Spar

Wimborne Garden Centre

STURMINSTER

MARSHALL

Nisa Local

Vines Close Farm Shop

TARRANT

KEYNESTON

Bus Shelter

TARRANT

LAUNCESTON The Shed

Co-op Petrol Station Southern Keating Butchers W. H. Smith Allendale Centre Hearnes Green Man Wimborne Minster Porch

Waitrose Coach & Horses

V & A Store

Tourist Information/ Museum Fair Ground Fair Trade Shop

Gullivers Book Shop Spar

Fluffetts Farm Dacombes

WOW Fitness

David’s of Wimborne Wimborne Library Wimborne Community Centre

WIMBORNE ST GILES Post Office

WITCHAMPTON Club/Shop

WOODLANDS

The Egg Shed

How to prevent your

How can I protect my car from being stolen? Here are Confused.com’s top tips to help protect your car from being stolen:

• Lock your vehicle – it sounds obvious but double checking that your car is locked could save you time and money. Also, your car insurance policy may not pay out if your car was left unlocked when it was stolen.

• Invest in multiple layers of security – having a steering wheel lock or handbrake lock helps to secure your car and act as a visual deterrent for thieves.

• If you have keyless entry software, invest in a Faraday pouch to help protect your car against keyless hackers.

• Park somewhere secure. If you don't have secure parking, aim for a well-lit street.

For more ways to secure your car, and for answers to more common car security questions, take a look at our guide on protecting your car from theft.

Prevent keyless theft and get a Faraday pouch

Keyless entry and start is a convenient feature now on many cars.

While often helpful, keyless entry has a gaping drawback – it can make it easy for car thieves to take off with your car. Often working in pairs, car criminals do this by hijacking a car key’s radio signal, sending it

to a nearby transmitter handled by an accomplice.

This acts as the ‘key’, letting them open your car up, start the engine and drive it away, possibly to be stripped for spare parts. This method is known as keyless entry car theft.

Luckily a Faraday pouch helps protect you from keyless entry car theft. Most of these have signal-blocking stitching that

helps to block out any radio interference.

It comes as a small hold-all and you simply put your key fob inside.

Invest in a steering wheel lock

A tough, brightly-coloured metal lock clamped across your steering wheel is a strong visual deterrent for many car thieves – though not for the most determined.

While some wheel locks do look a bit on the heavy-handed side, most owners feel their highlyvisible presence is worth it for the peace of mind.

If you buy a wheel lock, make sure it doesn’t lean too heavily on the horn or nearby indicator stalk.

Also check that it doesn’t scratch the steering wheel or get in the way of automatic gearbox paddle shifters, if you have them fitted.

Good wheel locks can be expensive, but their chunky, robust presence is hard to ignore.

Hang onto your electric vehicle (EV) charging cables

If you drive an EV, be mindful of the security of your electric charging cables. Any cables left outside your house, for example, may be vulnerable to theft.

Electric vehicle cable theft is on the rise as the kit is increasingly desired by scrap metal thieves. And, massively increasing electric vehicle sales means it’s a growing trend.

Some electric car charging cables aren’t easily stolen. But some charging stations rely on EV drivers to use their own cables – and it’s easy to leave these unattended.

Typically a standard Type 2 BP Chargemaster cable retails

around £150 and is widely used across many marques, including Audi, BMW, Peugeot and VW.

If you have a garage, try and keep all your charging kit inside it. It’s best not to over-advertise this increasingly targeted and expensive equipment.

Consider a car tracker

A GPS tracker could be an inexpensive way of pinpointing exactly where your car is. Many of us already use GPS satellite technology when using our phones – Google Maps, for example. But you can fit GPS car trackers discreetly to a vehicle, often with a simple adhesive patch.

Some trackers rely on their own long-life battery while others can be wired up to your car’s on-board diagnostics (OBD) port.

Almost all cars made after 1996 have an OBD, and you can set them up using your own SIM card.

There’s plenty of flexibility and choice. Some start from as little as £50, or even less.

A VHF system is also an option – though it tends to be a bit more expensive.

The VHF advantage is that it can track your vehicle down even if it’s been hidden underground, or in a hard-tofind, isolated shipping container. There’s also another hardto-argue-with advantage – a Thatcham-approved VHF tracker could also lower your car insurance costs.

The cost of car trackers can vary depending on the manufacturer. You might be able to buy the device with a one off payment, for others you might have to pay a monthly fee via a subscription service.

Motoring Pumping up the info on Covid and drivers

Drivers are being urged to help stop the spread of flu, Covid and other illnesses by wearing gloves to prevent the spread of the ‘twindemic’. The advice follows on from the UK Health Security Agency’s (UKHSA) guidance that unwell adults should wear a face covering if they have to go out. Research has shown that 5% of all fuel pump handles have Covid-19 present on their surfaces – equating to at least one contaminated fuel nozzle at every single fuel station in the

United Kingdom. With more than two million motorists refilling their vehicles on a daily basis, forecourts are a potential hotbed for the transmission of illness where drivers fill-up without gloves.

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