What’s inside this issue...
Contact Us
Advertising: jane.toomer@blackmorevale.net
Editorial: newsdesk@stourandavon.net
Postal enquiries to: 3 Alfred’s Way, Wincanton, BA9 9RU
Classified ads: classified@stourandavon.net 01963 400186 or online at stourandavon.net
DEADLINES
Display ads must be booked by Wednesday the week before publication, with final copy submitted by the Friday. Classified ads may be accepted after this, however these will be subject to available space.
Tel: 01963 400186
Tel: 07850 529937
Tel: 07714 289409
Faith Eckersall Reporter newsdesk@ stourandavon.net
Tel: 07714 289412
Georgian splendour marks anniversary
by Lorraine GibsonVisitors to an open day at Allendale House recently would have been forgiven for thinking they’d stepped back in time, as Regency dancers and hobby horse bicycles traversed the Wimborne landmark. The house is 200 years old this year and to mark the occasion and capture the elegance
of its Georgian era, the Hampshire Regency Dancers and promenaders, together with the Dandy Chargers on their bicycles entertained in authentic fashion.
Built in 1823 for the Castleman Family, Allendale was one of many venues taking part in Heritage Open Days for East Dorset Heritage Trust.
Help those with suicide issues
Twenty minutes can be all it takes to save a life, says Public Health Dorset, which wants more people to take a short 20-minute course in suicide awareness training. The online course can be accessed at: zerosuicidealliance.com/ suicide-awareness-training and can help people spot suicide warning signs and teach participants how to converse with someone they are worried about. There are also organisations on hand to listen, day or night. Call Connection, Dorset’s NHS mental health helpline - 0800 652 0190. Call Samaritans for a listening ear with no judgement - 116 123 or text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258 for confidential support via text.
Blaze extinguished
Firefighters dealt with a blaze at a derelict garage in Cranborne. Crews from Cranborne and Verwood attended the incident, in Castle Street, at just after 5.30am on September 8.
A spokesman said: “Crews found a garage that’s no longer in use alight and quickly extinguished the small fire.”
Autumn Anniversary
DEBATE: From left, Tobias Ellwood MP, Anthony Littlechild and Henrietta Love Pictures: BEN TETTMAR
Conference demonstrates it’s tough at the COP
by Faith EckersallLively debate took place at Dorset’s first Conference Of The Parties (COP) environmental conference which was attended by hundreds of people. The conference, which featured an unscheduled address on the government’s climate policies from Tory MP Tobias Ellwood, was held on September 9 at The
Corn Exchange in Dorchester. It was organised by Dorset Climate Action Network, Sustainable Dorset and Zero Carbon Dorset. Despite plenty of discussion, delegates were unable to proceed with issuing their planned Dorchester Declaration – to act, advocate and lobby for action on climate change across the county – as they could
not agree the final wording.
Other notable speakers included Henrietta Love from Dorset Young Farmers, Anthony Littlechild, Sustainability Team Manager at Dorset Council, Abi Buckingham, AUB Graduate, and Bob Ward from Grantham Research Institute and London School of Economics.
Wednesday 18th October
Dorchester Market & Weymouth
Oxford
Tuesday 24th October
Saturday 28th October
Houses of Parliament (coach & entrance)
Saturday 4th November
Bridgwater Carnival .........................................................................
Monday 6th November
Theatre Royal Drury Lane Tour (coach & entrance) .............
Monday 6th November
London Transport Museum (coach & entrance) ....................
Thursday 9th November
Designer Outlet, Swindon
Sunday 12th November
Clarks Village ..........................................................................................
Tuesday 14th November
Gunwharf Quays
Saturday 18th November
Glastonbury Carnival .......................................................................
Sunday 19th November
Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market
Friday 24th November
Bath Christmas Market
For details or to book: 01202 767022
gill@lagunaholidays.com www.lagunaholidays.com
More New Stour & Avon winners
Pictured above are the winners of our Museum of East Dorset competition, Olga and her daughter Gaia. Both were very happy winners especially as Gaia particularly loves museums.
They won a family annual pass to the museum, along with free tea and cake!
Massawe Adventures
Amazing safari and cultural experience in Tanzania. Family run operator based in Cotswold, UK www.massaweadventures.com
Antics around the square
Inside Out performing artistes were thrilling children and adults alike with their breathtaking balancing acts in Wimborne Square at the weekend
New minister for church
by Lorraine GibsonFrom Cornwall, via Scotland to Dorset, Wimborne Methodist Church’s new minister has been welcomed into the fold.
Reverend Deborah Cornish, who joined a service at the church on the first Sunday of this month and is looking forward to her parttime role there, says: “One of the key gifts of the Methodist Church is their abundant hospitality. A further attribute is the ability to embrace inclusivity.”
Originally from Saltash, Rev Deborah has enjoyed a varied ministry that began far from ‘home’ in Fife. From there, she headed south to Hereford where she was appointed Superintendent of the Circuit for eight years. She comes to Wimborne with her husband, John, after six years serving two churches in Brighton where she was appointed Assistant District Chair. The well-attended service included Holy Communion, with Matthew Burt on the organ and John Cornish one of the readers. Coffee at the close gave members the chance to speak to Rev Deborah and John.
Man assaulted in town centre
A man in his 60s was knocked unconscious in an assault in Crown Mead, near Wimborne Library shortly after 1am on Sunday, September 3. He was taken to hospital for treatment and has since been discharged.
The suspect is described as white, in his late 20s, between six feet two and six feet four inches tall with a beard.
PC Caroline Orchard, of Dorset Police, said: “Thankfully, the victim did not sustain any serious injuries in this unprovoked assault.
“I am appealing to anyone who was in the area and witnessed what happened to please come forward.
“In particular, I am keen to speak to a blonde woman who was in the vicinity.” Anyone with information should contact Dorset Police viadorset. police.uk or call 101, quoting incident number 55230139399. Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Holly represents UK at youth camp in France
Holly Ryan, aged 22 from Hurn, enjoyed her opportunity at the Lions International Youth Camp in Les Sables D’Olonne in France during the summer, and made firm friends with other students attending. Holly visited La Rochelle, Île d’Yeu (an island off France), Puy de Fou, and Maillezais. She said: “The activities included sailing boats made in the region, visiting the Puy de Fou amusement park, a tour around the city and La Rochelle and other points of interest such as the abbey. The Leos (younger lions clubs) organised
a treasure hunt, laser tag and a beach trip on two camp days. “In the evenings we all cooked and often took it in turns to make our favourite dishes.
“We also learned how to make French crepes and had a French cheese and wine tasting night”. This was all made possible through French Lions Clubs who met her expenses and arranged her accommodation. The Lions International Youth Camp & Exchange Program runs each year. Places are available on the scheme, which is designed to promote friendship, travel and a greater
international cultural awareness for those aged 16 to 22. Holly’s application was accepted by Ringwood & Fordingbridge Lions Club. Anyone living or attending school or College in the area can apply to Ringwood & Fordingbridge Lions Club for a place at any of the hundreds of Camps available worldwide in the summer of 2024. Details and an application form can be downloaded from their website at: randflions.org.uk. Closing date for receipt of applications for next year is Friday, October 20, 2023.
Just how eco-friendly is this development?
I travel past the new housing development at Parley several times a week, so I have watched it grow.
I find it very concerning to see the number of houses being built so close together. As this is on Green Belt land, what happened to the SANG they were supposed to provide. A separate area of open green space,with hopefully some trees was promised by Bellway. Talking of trees, I can no longer see the large landmark tree that stood near the centre of the land.
That tree has been standing there for as long as I can remember, and deer would stand under it.
They put a fence round it, but now it seems to have disappeared, perhaps in the way of yet another house?
Bellway are advertising these homes as eco-friendly, but if they are not creating any green spaces or respecting the mature trees already there,how can they be?
Susan Williams FerndownSir Chris has started to wake up
I too ‘rubbed my eyes in disbelief’ after reading the two letters in the New Stour & Avon issue dated September 8. Although I have no allegiance to Sir Chris (my MP is no better) I am a Tory voter. He has finally started to wake up and smell the coffee. Unfortunately, Sir Chris is just a single voice, he does what he can, when he can, for as often as he can.
I firmly believe he is quite correct in his views.
‘Dishy Rishi’ constantly claims to have stopped the boats, yet they still continue. Rwanda is another dead duck snd Bibby Stockholm is a laughing stock worldwide.
Our hotels are being filled with immigrants - with staff laid offand tourism is now put at risk. Then there’s the NHS, the veterans, the homeless, foodbanks and the hard-working
n I am no supporter of Christopher Chope MP nor any recent Conservative ‘governments’.
But unlike recent correspondents, I find it refreshing that he comes out with well-justified criticism of the Tories’ complete failure to deal with an immigration crisis that threatens many countries and will only get worse as conflicts, droughts, rising sea levels and other
population, and Rishi’s obstinate support for Ulez and the strive for net zero.
Just stop the boats at source or just turn them around; if the French dont like it - tough. Why should we constantly be scared stiff of upsetting the French? Just cancel their fishing permits if the boats continue to arrive. But no, I think Sunac and co actually wants them to arrive. If the Government wanted to stop the boats, they would stop. Can anyone recall the party manifesto?
It’s been blown out of the water by the current unelected people in control. It was ‘get Brexit done, low taxes and growth’ ! If those two letters signify the calibre of our electorate then we are in for a very interesting future.
John Jones Verwoodclimate change factors
increase.
Border Force Agency staff were mercilessly reduced by the Tories’ impacting asylum application and billions of pounds are being wasted which should instead be spent rooting out those who organise this trade as well as investing in the countries of origin and their people.
Roland BritainGillingham
FACTOID OF THE FORTNIGHT
The world’s best rugby union teams are currently battling it out to get their hands on the world cup. France is the hosting with the final set to be played on October 28 in Paris. However, the prestigious world cup is not the oldest trophy in international rugby union. No, that particular honour belongs to the Calcutta Cup - confusingly named, as it is presented to the winner of the England v Scotland fixture each year. But why the Calcutta Cup? That dates back to 1879, and the disbanding of the Calcutta Football Club in India, when the British Army regiment, Buffs (Royal East Kent Regiment) 1st Battalion, left the area.
Club captain, honorary secretary and treasurer, Mr G A James Rothney, sent a letter to the Rugby Football Union (RFU) informing them of the club’s intention ‘of doing some lasting good, for the cause of Rugby Football’. His plan was to produce a challenge cup using the 270 silver rupees left in the club’s bank account. Local silversmiths melted down the rupees and created a 45cmhigh trophy.
Sunbsequently, the RFU decided it would be presented to the winners of the annual England v Scotland match.
Quakers are on the move
Wimborne Quaker Meeting has recently moved to Allendale House, from the Allendale Centre next door.
We were one of the first groups to meet post-Covid in the Allendale Centre.
The success of Allendale Centre as the town’s hub has made it less quiet... Quakers enjoy being involved but the stillness and quiet of our Meetings for Worship is enhanced by a quiet environment.
The Quaker Meeting meets on the first and third Sundays each month, at 10.30am in the Bankes Room at Allendale House, a light, airy room.
A meeting for learning and sharing on the fourth Monday evening of each month has also restarted.
Quakers are a faith group, committed to working for equality and peace, and striving to live in truth, peace, simplicity and equality, finding God in ourselves and everyone around us.
It’s Quaker Day on October 1,
and Quaker Week the preceding week, with opportunities to share locally, nationally, and internationally. Quakerism is almost 400 years old, whilst Wimborne Quaker Meeting is now just nine years old!
We welcome everyone who would find our simple, quiet approach to faith helpful. To find out more, get in touch with me, Richard Bush, the clerk, on 01202 882697 or our assistant clerk, Barbara Winwood on 07787 416619.
Lots more information can be found at quaker.org.uk
Richard Bush WimborneHomes badly damaged by lightning strike
A lightning strike caused a fire that left two Corfe Mullen properties badly damaged. Firefighters from Poole and Wimborne tackled the blaze, which was reported at a property in Coronation Way at around 12.19am this morning on Monday, September 18.
A Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said the strike had caused a ‘significant fire in the roof spaces of the
two attached properties’.
“Six fire crews attended, and 12 breathing apparatus wearers used three hose reel jets and two main jets to bring the fire under control,” he added.
“We had left the scene by 5.30am, although a crew will be back for a reinspection in daylight.” No one was injured.
New chief for town Rotary
The new president of Wimborne Rotary has been appointed.
Graham West received his chain of office from outgoing president Ron Franks at a special handover meeting of club members at Wimborne Town Football Club.
Broadstone resident Graham said: “I want us to give a strong focus to supporting local young people, not only because they are our future but, who knows, their parents could end up joining us in Rotary.
“Any youth organisation in the local area which is looking for support for a project they want to complete should contact us to explore whether we can help them.
You can make contact at wimbornerotary.org.
Meetings resume after guild break
Verwood Afternoon
Townswomens Guild members were welcomed back after the August break.
Tea and cakes were on offer after the business part of the meeting, and a quiz and games of Beetle were enjoyed.
Young growers are blooming
by Lorraine GibsonSchoolchildren had a great time showing off the fruits of their green-fingered labours while overall winners of the Great Verwood Grow Off were announced at the Verwood & District Horticultural Society’s autumn show.
Earlier in the season, local schoolchildren were challenged to grow the tallest sunflower, the longest bean and the heaviest courgette using free seeds distributed by the society to their schools.
Out of 19 entrants, Hannah Scott, four, won the tallest sunflower, at 270cm; Heidi Greensmith, 10, longest runner bean at 33cm and Boo Elmer heaviest courgette at a whopping 3.7kg! Each won a trophy and a £20 toyshop voucher donated by local businesses.
Even on the hottest day of the year, the society’s main show
had more than 280 exhibits from 47 entrants with benches back to pre-Covid levels. A dazzling range of colourful and scented flowers lined tables the tables with roses, dahlias and gladioli vying for attention. Inventive floral themes included Copper Glow, Berried Treasure and Autumn Garden and the fruits of vivid imaginations were evident in the children’s decorated wooden spoons and miniature gardens.
Veggies and plates of autumnal fruit got in on the act, too and the intense heat did nothing to deter the public who took delight in both the exhibits and the homemade cakes.
Ollie Greensmith, society chairman, is keen to attract more exhibitors for future years to their inclusive environment. He said: “Anyone can enter an exhibit into our open shows, whether they’re an experienced grower or new to gardening.
“It’s free and it’s not as scary as some might think.
“This is the first year I’ve grown vegetables and entered them, and even I’ve won a few classes. It’s great fun.”
He added: “Members are on hand to answer questions on how to present and participate.
“There are always children’s categories with fun crafts – we just need more children to enter!”
The trophy stand shone with 32 awards which were presented along with £280-worth of garden vouchers donated by generous local businesses for the Best Exhibits.
The society meets on the first Thursday of the month at 7.30pm in the Verwood Memorial Hall.
For info and all this year’s winners, visit verwoodhorticulturalsociety. co.uk or call Ollie on 01202 827622.
A trip to Broadlands Flower Show has been arranged by Dorset Federation, and the federation carol service will again take place at Dorchester Community Church in Poundbury. Verwood committee ladies will provide an autumn lunch in October and the guild Christmas lunch will again be held at the Remedy Oak Golf Club.
Eco expert event
Eco experts can test their knowledge at a quiz next month. Environmental group Planet Wimborne is hosting a quiz night at Colehill Sports and Social Club, in Wimborne Road, on Thursday, October 5. The event, at 7pm for 7.30pm, is a fundraiser for the Planet Wimborne Green Festival. Come as an individual or as a group of up to six people. There will be prizes, a raffle and bar and bring your own snacks. Entry costs £5. Visit planetwimborne.org or call 01202 884201.
Political round-up
Our allocation of police officers is unfair
It is a rare pleasure to be able to report that the Home Office has achieved one of its key targets. On September 5, 2019, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that 20,000 extra police officers would be recruited by March 31, 2023. That target has been met and, indeed, exceeded.
In Dorset we now have 1,441 compared with 1,267. There is a risk, however, that unfairness in the funding formula will result in some of these extra police being removed from the frontline of the war against crime and redeployed to civilian duties. This issue was raised by me and other local MPs when we met the Policing Minister, Chris Philp.
We expressed our concern that the Minister had not allocated the extra money for the 7% increase in police pay on a per capita basis.
Despite Dorset residents paying £83.4million this year in council tax for the police (£280.58 per Band D household), the Government expects our council tax payers to fund more of the extra pay bill than others.
A fair pro rata share of the national cake would give
Dorset £335 extra for each officer.
Yet under the Government’s allocation formula, it pays £1,673 for each police officer in the West Midlands but only £1,017 for each officer in Dorset.
This injustice is compounded by the fact that Dorset has far fewer police officers per head of population than the West Midlands. Despite having given the Minister advance notice of this argument, he was unable to justify his allocation decision but he did concede that the formula which he used is unfair. Our exchange of views with the Minister has alerted me to the need to carefully scrutinise the deployment of police officers to ensure that they are not used to backfill civilian roles.
With that in mind, I have asked the Policing Minister how many officers in each force are
currently carrying out duties that should be done by civilians. n Earlier this month it was a delight to be present for the service of rededication of the New Forest Airfields Memorial erected in honour of all those veterans who flew from or fulfilled support roles at the 12 airfields of the New Forest during the Second World War. This annual event was organised by the charity, Friends of the New Forest Airfields (Fonfa) and attended by military representatives from the USA, Canada and Australia as well as local service organisations.
Fonfa has its heritage centre at Mosquito Way, Bransgore, which is well worth a visit. With the 80th anniversary of D Day next June, it is good to remind ourselves of the important part played by those operating from airfields in defending our freedom.
State of our nation is at rock bottom
As the RAAC concrete scandal in the nation’s school proliferates, so the soft centre of the Conservative government begins to crack and split.
Poor Rishi Sunak, who started off his premiership a year ago, has found himself firmly in the firing line at last. He cannot deny that he ordered a halving of the school rebuilding program whilst he was chancellor of the exchequer. The Tories cancelled the previous Labour administration’s school building program, which led to the extension of the Blandford School to the size and scope that you see today. Other signs are the sheer fractious nature of several past and present ministers’ relations with the media and each other. Witness the foul-mouthed outburst by Education Secretary Gillian Keegan who, at the end of an ITV interview, was so
embittered by the intense level of questioning that she complained she was doing a ‘f***ing good job’ as she lambasted her predecessors for having ‘sat on their arse’ whilst the schools crumbled. We also learned recently that one of her predecessors, Gavin Williamson, sent a typically aggressive tantrum email to the Tory whips office as they refused to give him a ticket to the late Queen’s funeral in Westminster Abbey.
How typical of this party – the dregs of ministerial ‘talent’ more preoccupied with their own image than - literally in the case of schools - the fabric of our country.
Which brings me to the anniversary of the late Queen’s death. What a true sainthood she has achieved and what a shambles the nation descended to at the end of her reign and even lower after her passing. Of course, the other
anniversary this month is the arrival then downfall and resignation of the shortest prime ministership in British history, Liz Truss. A couple of political commentators have managed to fill a whole book about her 47 days in office! The financial turmoil she and Kwasi Kwarteng, her chancellor, caused in the financial markets is still being
felt in people’s mortgages today.
This will continue as the nations’ fixed-rate deals finish and new higher rates will apply. The Tories - astute custodians of the economy? Not any more.
But picture the scene as the Tory Party realised their big mistake and Truss’s government crumbled around her.
She apparently cancelled a meeting with her new chancellor and decided to asses her options over a pork pie and a bottle of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. What a picture to behold! I love NZ Sauvignon Blanc myself but I have never drunk it with a pork pie!
The state of our nation is at rock bottom.
We hope Keir Starmer and Labour come in and restore pride to our once great country.
Still awaiting movement on toilet fund
There are some services in our community that everyone takes for granted, and we only really notice when they are gone. Toilets is one such facility and bound to get everyone talking. Most people do not realise that toilets are not a statutory function of councils – there is no requirement to provide them, and as such when council finances are under pressure they are at risk of closure.
The topic is also intensely personal. Older people and those with medical conditions often plan day-to-day activities around the availability of these facilities and when they are out of order it can cause real distress.
Some rarely leave the house through the worry of not being able to reach a loo – directly impacting physical and mental health.
Cleanliness and quality of toilets also come under the spotlight when talking to residents and visitors alike. What seems like a
straightforward function is often complicated by anti-social behaviour, vandalism and even arson. Prior to the closure of public toilets in my own community we calculated that they had been closed more often than they were open, running up costs to the taxpayer and even when open, their condition was so poor that many people refused to use them. Good toilets feel like they should be a basic right, and
Platinum Award-Winning Care 2022
We have been awarded this much sought after accolade for our work with Gold Standards Framework
during the 2017 General Election campaign this became a hot topic locally, with me calling for action.
Liberal Democrats recently called for the Government to introduce a Public Toilet Fund so councils can maintain toilets in our communities and modernise them where they are not fit for purpose.
We talk of ‘spending a penny’ when we visit a public toilet because there was always a tradition of making a small payment to use the facilities. Some places I have visited with the toilets in the best condition do ask for payment (usually 20p) and whilst this is not ideal it serves two purposes. The mindless entry to toilets for anti-social purposes is less likely if you are paying for the privilege and the income also enables some of the costs to be recovered.
Councils were traditionally funded by a Revenue Support Grant alongside collecting council tax and business
rates. This has been slashed over the last decade... in the Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole area this contribution was previously £106m per year, it is now £6m. The figures in Dorset Council will be similar. It is therefore inevitable that councils have had to make impossible decisions, closing services and increasing charges where they can. During this time local authorities have had to take on more responsibilities, particularly around adult social care, and everything that is not statutory has been squeezed. It is time for a new deal for Local Government, for councils to be provided with the funds to deliver what communities need. They need the revenue to support services day to day and the capital to improve the facilities they have. The Public Toilet Fund which the Liberal Democrats have called for is just an example of an area where the public deserve better, and the health of the nation demands it too.
Exceptional Care in Stunning Surroundings
Current resident
“Your staff are exemplary in every way. They care for my every need, showing genuine kindness and always go above and beyond the call of duty. The excellent chef caters for my special diet - all cooked to perfection. I couldn’t ask for anything more.”
Live life better... every day at Spetisbury Manor Bright,
Three days of fun at Monkey World
by Lorraine GibbonIt was monkey business as usual for nearly 300 lucky Dorset children who went to Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre as part of Variety The Children’s Charity’s Great Days Out scheme, that aims to create positive memories for disadvantaged children
Over three days, the children marveled at cheeky chimps, mischievous monkeys, funky gibbons and more at the centre that offers refuge to 250 rescued and endangered primates.
On the outings, organised by Variety Wessex, Laguna coaches transported
children from east Dorset schools, including Beaucroft School in Wimborne, to the centre in the Dorset countryside. Highlights included feeding time for the ring-tailed lemurs, gentle orang-utans grooming and some noisy gibbons.
Frances Cornelius, chairman of Variety Wessex, said:
“Thank you so much to Monkey World and Laguna coaches.
“Also, thank you to Hattie Miles for the amazing photographs.”
For more information about the work of Variety Wessex contact francesaaa@aol. com.
Welcome to Allenbourn Middle School
At Allenbourn Middle School we are committed to ensuring that our children grow and learn alongside their peers in a safe and nurturing environment. Our school community works together embracing our shared values of ‘Academic Excellence’, ‘All Inclusive’ and ‘Responsible Individuals’ ensuring that every child is able to ‘aspire@AMS’.
It is our aim to ensure that our children become well-motivated, confident learners, capable of achieving the highest possible standards, whilst becoming positive role models. We welcome children aged nine and they leave us aged thirteen with a clear sense of purpose and an enthusiasm for their future learning. Children experience a rich curriculum taught by subject specialist teachers and enjoy a wide range of extra-curricular clubs and opportunities throughout their time with us.
We take pride in maintaining positive relationships with parents and the wider school community and value the role the whole school community plays in maintaining high expectations for our children.
I would encourage you to take a little time to find out more about our school and parents, prospective parents and members of the local community are always welcome to visit.
To book a parent tour on one of the following dates, please contact the school office: Tel 01202 886738 or email office@allenbournmiddle.org
Wednesday 4th
October, Monday 9th
October, Tuesday 10th
October or
Wednesday 11th
October from 9.3010.30am.
Mr M.Viewing Wednesday 27th September 10am - 5pm
GENERAL ANTIQUES & COLLECTABLES
Thursday 28th September
JEWELLERY,
SILVER & WATCHES AUCTION
Friday 29th September
Lots of bags at auction!
Viewing Wednesday 27th September 10am
Acreman St Auctioneers & Valuers’ next General Antiques & Collectors Auction on Saturday, October 28, includes interesting items from a manor house hotel. An antique flame mahogany twin pedestal sideboard fitted with an extensive Garrard & Co canteen of Art Deco cutlery is estimated at £600-£800, and an antique carved giltwood mirror with game bird detail at £600-£800. A late 1950s Hermes Kelly handbag with its original purchase receipt and a belt with the original box purchased at the same time is estimated at £300£500.
Catalogue available to view through thesaleroom.com & Easyliveauction.com
Fashion & Apparel auction on Friday, November 10, moved from September.
We are now consigning items for our September auction and our specialist sales.
The Jewellery, Watches & Silver Auction on Friday, September 29, includes an 18ct Longines Master Collection gents wristwatch estimated at £4,000-£5,000 and a selection of Second World War military watches. Acreman is still accepting consignments for these auctions and the specialist 20th Century & Modern Art auction on Thursday, October 26, and the Textiles
Catalogue and bidding is through Easyliveauction.com and Thesaleroom.com.
For all enquiries please contact Gill Norman on 07908 333577 or 01935 508764 auction@acremanstreetantiques.co.uk
If you have anything you would like to consign, contact Gill Norman on 07908 333577 or 01935 50874 or by email at auction@acremanstreetantiques. co.uk.
Valuation days are held every Wednesday 10am-4pm, with free valuations offered on items being considered for auction, at Acreman Auction, 121 Acreman Street, Sherborne, DT9 3PH.
Antiques & Collectibles
Gearing up for an auction marathon at Charterhouse
Charterhouse in Sherborne are about to start a marathon six auction in nine days!
“To say we have been busy would be an understatement,” said the firm’s Rochard Bromell. “We travelled across the West Country visiting clients which has resulted in a phenomenal series of auctions.”
On Tuesday 26th, they have an auction of automobilia, on 27th the Graham Oakley auction, 28th pictures and books, 29th
antiques and then into October on 2nd there is film and music memorabilia and on the 5th, classic cars. All lots are on charterhouseauction.com
n Richard Bromell and the Charterhouse Team can be contacted for advice and valuations at The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, 01935 812277 or via info@ charterhouse-auction.com.
PASTIMES
of Sherborne (near the Abbey)
Thirty years of dealing in antique and Collectible Toys.
Top prices paid for all types of model railway, die cast cars, early Action Man and Star Wars, Scalextric, Meccano, unmade Airfix kits etc.
Those magical makes; Hornby, Dinky, Triang, Spot-On, Corgi, Subbuteo, Britains, Timpo plus plus plus
Telephone: 01935 816072
Mobile: 07527 074343
Charterhouse Auction Dates
Automobilia & Enamel Signs 26th
Graham Oakey Studio (unreserved) 27th
Pictures, Books & Sporting 28th
Antiques & Interiors 29th
Film & Music Memorabilia 2nd
Classic & Vintage Cars 5th (Haynes)
Classic Motorcycles 26th (Haynes)
All lots & internet bidding on our website
Campaigner Oly the fish does it again
by Lorraine GibsonIs he a man or is he a fish? Er, yes he is!
Regular readers know that Dorset’s famous endurance swimmer, Oly Rush is dedicated to raising environmental awareness, particularly around plastic pollution.
He’s previously swum the entire 100-mile length of the Jurassic Coast, circumnavigated the Isle of Wight in record time and set a world record by swimming round Grand Cayman 37 hours. Fast-forward to this month and Oly was putting his turbo stroke to work around the waters of Ithaca, Greece, in an amazing display of resilience and commitment to environmental conservation.
Setting off from a remote beach in complete darkness at 4am, he faced formidable obstacles including strong currents, jellyfish stings, blustery winds, relentless sun and long periods in the vast expanse of the ocean. Undaunted, Oly circled the island in a gruelling 19-hour
and 41-minute swim that both showcased his physical endurance and made a powerful statement about the fight against plastic pollution and the urgency for responsible environmental stewardship. The swim was sponsored by recruitment agency, GreenFolk Ltd, ensuring that all funds raised go directly to the cause. To maintain the stamina required for his extraordinary swim, Olly stuck to a rigorous diet which included coffee, oats, soup, bananas, and essential electrolytes; he also took antiinflammatories to mitigate pain, underlining his determination to
complete the arduous journey. An essential part of Oly’s endeavour was the remarkable team of kayak supporters who accompanied him. Dedicated and like-minded, they provided crucial support, relaying his health updates to the main boat, Kalipso, and ensuring he got sustenance at precise intervals..
Beyond the physical feat, his Ithaca swim delivered a profound message, drawing attention to the pollution issue and urging responsible and sustainable living to minimize our impact on the environment. It was not merely a personal
challenge but a call to action for individuals, communities, and organisations. You can make your own splash by supporting Oly’s mission, and our planet, with an online donation at projectplanet. earth that will be used to support his initiatives.
Welcome to Stour Gate, Blandford St Mary
Local retirees and their families are invited to visit McCarthy Stone’s stunning new show suite at Stour Gate, a brand-new Retirement Living development at Blandford St Mary.
From Tuesday, August 29, the grand reveal will take place at Stour Gate on Barley Place, built on the old site of Blandford Brewery. This will be a great opportunity for the local community to take a closer look at the professionally styled communal lounge, as well as the beautiful one and two-bedroom apartments available, which have been thoughtfully designed with sophistication and style in mind. The show suite will be open Tuesday to Saturday, 10:30am to 5pm.
To mark the show suite opening, guests will be able enjoy refreshments and learn more about the unique brand of Retirement Living on offer at the development, which has been exclusively designed to provide everything the over-60s could need for a fulfilling and independent lifestyle.
A range of occupancy options are available at Stour Gate to help make retiring in style more accessible, including the Shared Ownership scheme in partnership with Homes England. Prices currently start from £198,750 for a one-bedroom apartment, and from £270,000 for a two-bedroom apartment. Those wanting to attend are encouraged to book an appointment by calling 0800 153 3076 or visit mccarthystone.co.uk/stour-gate.
Ican’tbelieveit’s been 10years!
Wahooo!!!I’mcelebrating10YEARSSERVICEwithThe 1:1DietbyCambridgeWeightPlan
WhoknewwhenIdidthisdietover16yearsago maintaininga5Stonesweightloss,itwouldleadtoa careerhelpingothersdothesame!
And,whata10yearsithasbeen.I’mproudtohavebeen recognisedwithmultipleawardsincludingRegional ConsultantoftheYear,andTop50SalesChampion.I’ve beenprivilegedtohelpclientsfromasyoungas15to93 yearsofage,includingmums,dads,brothers,sisters, sons,daughters,nansandgrandads,bestfriendsand workcolleaguesalike.
Hundredsandhundredsof‘Stones’have beenlost,nottomentionimprovementsin manyseriousillnessessuchasthereversal oftype2diabetes,loweredbloodpressure, reducedcollesterolandrelievedbackand jointpain.
I’vehadthepleasuretosupportclientsand watchtheirconfidencegrow,andlearnto believeandtakeprideinthemselves.Many haveevenapearedinphotostaken,rather thanhidingbehindthelens!
ToknowI’vebeenabigpartofallofthese changesformanymanypeopleis PRICELESS.Ithasbeentoughalongtheway withlonghours,andhardwork,butit’sbeen worthit.Thejobsatisfactionfromhelpingso somanypeoplechangetheirlivesforthebetteris simplyPRICELESS.
Iwillneverforgetagentlemanclientonceleavingmy houseafterourconsultation.Asheleft,heturnedtome andsaid“Imusttellyousomething…..Doyouhaveany ideahow‘you’makepeoplefeelsomuchbetterabout themselves?”
*Theweightlostand/ortimeframesareparticulartothisslimmer.Everyone'sweightlossjourneyisuniquetothem.
Some advanced planning for Hallowe’en!
(No Bake) Mini Pumpkin Pies
Serves: 1
Prep time: 10 Minutes
Calories: 397 kcal per serving
Steps: 3, 4, 5, 6
Ingredients
1 packet of The 1:1 Diet Orange & Ginger Bites MRP
3 tbsp of canned pumpkin
1/2 tsp of vanilla extract
1/2 sachet of The 1:1 Diet Vanilla Flavour Shake MRP*
2 tsp of The 1:1 Diet Mix-aMousse
1 tsp of ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp of ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp of ground ginger
*Because we’ve used 1 ½ The 1:1 Diet MRP products for this recipe, this will count as one MRP product plus your 200 kcal meal allowance on Step 2, or one MRP product and half your
400 kcal meal allowance for Step 3.
Method
In a food processor, add your 1:1 Diet Orange & Ginger Bites with 1 tsp of water and mix until it breaks down and starts to combine. Press the bites mixture into a mould and leave in the fridge to harden.
In a mixer, combine 3 tbsp of canned pumpkin, 50 ml of water, 1/2 a sachet of 1:1 Diet Vanilla Flavour Shake, as well as the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger. Layer the pumpkin mixture on top of the bites base and leave to set in the fridge for 30 minutes. Remove from mould.
To decorate, add a serving of squirty cream and a small sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top.
To garnish Sprinkle of ground cinnamon 1 portion lighter dairy spray cream.
n Check out the other bites in our range; blueberry and salted caramel.
Cooking... with Martha Legg
Food & Drink Maccaroni Cheese
Now that we have had all our home improvements done, we could, at last, have our grandchildren to stay.
We took them to Hamworthy Park, where they have a paddling pool and a large play area, one for the little ones and one for the bigger ones.
Ellie had an inset day, and it was her choice, and it was nice and quiet!
We made camp and then Ellie and Lizzie wanted to go in the water. They had great fun with the water guns and loved it when I got in as well.
I was ‘shot’ several times with water and was glad that I had my swimming costume on!!
When we came home, we were all very tired and wanted a quick meal for the girls.
However, they both insisted on helping Granddad with the cheese sauce!!
Ellie managed to grate the cheese without any bloodshed and I think Lizzie’s main role was to wave the spoon around.
Granddad is a great believer in helping children learn.
(Well, he was a teacher!). So, while I would probably have taken over when it came to mixing things in, Ellie got stuck in and mixed the sauce up.
I think she gets her skills from the whole family as her other granny and her mum, both like to cook.
We added the macaroni to the cheese sauce and dinner was done!! Ellie smothered hers in tomato sauce, which she loves. Happy grandchildren, happy grandparents!
Ingredients
Equal amounts of butter and flour About ½ pint milk, depending on how thick
you like the sauce.
Cheese, as much or a little as you like, depends on your taste
Seasoning
Method
Dice the butter into small cubes and melt it in a saucepan over low heat. Once the butter is melted, begin whisking in the flour.
When all the flour is incorporated, continue stirring and cooking for a few minutes to activate the starch granules. This is what will thicken the sauce. The roux is ready when it smells slightly nutty and loses any raw flour taste. When roux is ready, add the cold milk. Pour in the milk gradually while whisking the roux until the mixture is smooth, then simmer until it gets to the consistency you want.
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the grated cheese a handful at a time. If the cheese doesn’t seem to be melting, return the pan to very low heat, but do not let it come to a boil or your sauce will be grainy.
Cook the macaroni till it is al dente, and the add to the sauce.
Serve with extra cheese, or in my granddaughter’s case, tomato ketchup!!
The Ultimate Thai Experience
At Tiien Thai Restaurant, we are proud to create exceptional food that is carefully prepared and beautifully presented. Experience joy and harmony in a serene yet contemporary environment where the most exciting Thai food will be served.
Our chefs source only the finest authentic Thai ingredients to produce the most sublime flavours.
The team at Tiien will guide you on a magical adventure of tastes, aromas and textures.
There’s no longer a need to dine alone
Hyacinth House opened its doors to a number of people from the community to help tackle loneliness.
They invited anyone who would usually dine alone to join them last Thursday, September 14,for a meal and is now a weekly event. Diners were treated to a tasty lunch in the home’s dining room.
Guests had a chance to chat to other guests, the home’s staff and residents while enjoying their food.
Among the guests was a couple who will be celebrating their 68th anniversary next week and, as a surprise, they were presented with a card and bouquet of flowers by the general manager Kamila Gagila.
Another guest disclosed that sometimes they can go a week without speaking to anyone.
The home’s head chef rustled up a range of dishes to cover varied individual dietary needs and preferences, so diners were able to eat to their fill as they were served a three-course meal and drinks and they were welcome to enjoy any activities planned for the afternoon.
The ‘Don’t Dine Alone’ initiative was launched by care provider Barchester Healthcare as a way to reach out to isolated or vulnerable members of their local communities.
Barchester is also behind Barchester’s
Charitable Foundation, which is a registered charity that gives grants to older people and other adults with a disability to help combat loneliness and enable people to be active and engaged in the communities where the Barchester care homes operate.
Kamila, who joined the diners, said: “The day was a great success. It was a great effort from my team.
“They are always keen to do more to help
those who feel lonely or cut off from the rest of the community.
“Already we have further interest for next week’s lunch and we’re delighted with this. One of the diners, Robin said: “We are thrilled to have responded to the invitation and enjoyed a lovely meal served by most attentive and friendly staff.”
Hyacinth House care home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals.
It is a 32-bedroomed care home and recently opened following an extensive refurbishment. It provides residential and additional care to residents for respite care to long-term stays.
Carnival capers for isolation charity
Generous care home residents and staff opened their garden to support a charity that helps people in Dorset who face social isolation.
Colten Care’s Newstone House in Sturminster Newton staged a carnival-style day of outdoor fun and activities to help the Friends of Stour Connect, a day centre in the town.
Visitors including charity volunteers joined residents in games such as hoopla, hover archery and splat the rat. There was a tombola, lucky dip, photobooth and stalls selling a range of gifts and produce. And circus entertainment was prominent thanks to performances by stilt walker and fire breather Paul Flinders.
Guests were invited to take in the theatrics as they enjoyed cream teas and homemade cakes prepared specially by Colten Care’s catering team.
Reflecting on the fun, Rita Clay said: “It was a really enjoyable day and nice to see so many people from the local community join us.”
Fellow resident Sylvia Livsey said: “It’s such a wonderful charity and it was lovely to welcome the volunteers into our home.”
The event raised more than £170 for the Friends of Stour Connect which has been Newstone House’s main charity to support over the past two years.
In that time, many hundreds of pounds have been raised through events and initiatives at
the Colten Care home.
Karlene Horswill, Newstone House companionship team leader, said: “Our residents love the opportunity to spend time with family, friends and community visitors at events like this and the carnival theme was perfect.”
Friends of Stour Connect is a group that aims to improve facilities and access at the Stour Connect day centre in Sturminster Newton. The charity was founded to help tackle rural and social isolation affecting the elderly, the physically disabled and those with learning difficulties.
For more information on Friends of Stour Connect, visit friendsofstourconnect.org
Candles in the Community launched
Lewis-Manning Hospice Care will be reflecting, celebrating and remembering loved ones at their Candles in the Community events launching this autumn: Candles on the Lake - The Kitchen, Poole Park, Saturday, October 7
Candles on the Beach – Swanage Seafront, Saturday, October 21
Candles on the Green - Wimborne Minster, Saturday, November 18
Event organiser Hannah Garrett said: “We were overwhelmed by the response from our local communities at last years’ Candles on the Lake and Candles on the Beach events, and in response to public demand, we are thrilled to launch a new location for this year - Candles on the Green in Wimborne.
“These will be unique, memorable and meaningful events where families and friends can come together to reflect, celebrate and remember loved ones. “Whilst the events are emotional, the overriding feeling of community spirit always outweighs any sadness. The occasions provide real energy of hope and togetherness.”
Local choirs and the Salvation Army will perform at each event and include a short reflective reading, whilst creating a magical display of lights. The events are free to attend. Supporters are encouraged to make an online donation for a candle(s) prior to the event at lewismanning.org.uk/candles, alternatively
candles will be available on the night. If you would like to add a personal dedication to your candle, facilities to write your own message will be available.
Donations will be used to fund our Bereavement and Family Support as well as other vital services across our community, allowing us to give invaluable support to patients and their families from diagnosis of a life-limiting condition, through to end of life and bereavement.
All events are sponsored by Care South. With special thanks to Rockley Water Sports, Harbour Bay Crystal Clear Media, LED House and Reformed Plastics and Douch Family Funeral Directors, for kindly supporting our ‘Candles in the Community’ events.
The candles are made from recyclable materials and will be safely placed on the sand, lake and green, so as not to affect wildlife or cause damage. All the flameless candles are collected at the end of the evenings and will also be reused for subsequent years.
To find out more about the ‘Candles in the Community’ events visit lewis-manning. org.uk/candles.
Top comedians at evening fundraiser
A night of comedy is being held at The Black Cherry in Bournemouth in aid of Dorset’s Disability Charity, Diverse Abilities.
The event follows a successful first event in February. The Comedy Night is to be held on Friday, October 27, with Sunjai Arif as the MC for the evening.
Sunjai quickly wins over audiences with his confidence and warm personality. He is an engaging comedy storyteller and covers tales about his family, speeding tickets and extremist rodents.
Sunjai is joined by Joe Wells who started his career writing about his experiences of OCD, and has since been tour support for the likes of Frankie Boyle, Alexei Sayle, and Stephen K Amos, as well as writing for ‘Have I Got News For You’ and series two of ‘The Revolution Will Be Televised’. Spring Day, right, is an American stand-up comedian, writer and actor.
Spring’s uniquely acerbic and sassy style of comedy is always a crowd pleaser, or shocker... a fluent Japanese speaker and a mild cerebral palsy haver, Spring began her career headlining at the Tokyo Comedy Store whilst based in Japan. She has written, produced, directed and performed
seven solo shows at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. She has also written for and appeared in BBC Three sitcom Jerk. Mariana Swain, events executive at Diverse Abilities, said: “We are really excited to go back to the Black Cherry for our second comedy night. “It will be
a fantastic way to spend an evening in October, with entertainment from three hilarious comedians. We hope to be able to reach a new audience, who will be able to support our work with children and adults with physical and learning disabilities in Dorset.”
Rachel, one of the three owners of the Black Cherry, commented: “We are really keen to support the work of Diverse Abilities, as we strongly believe theatre and comedy are for everyone. It’s great to be able to do this in such a positive and upbeat way, introducing people to great up-andcoming professional comedians, in our wonderful creative space.”
Early bird tickets are now available and are £15 per person, or £25 to include a pizza and drink.
Find out more and get your tickets at diverseabilities.org.uk/comedy
Why Footprints foster care?
In this article we would like to pay tribute to some of the fantastic extracts from the carers at Footprints foster care, advocating why Footprints is the right decision when selecting a fostering agency. Don’t just take it from us, read on for some personal notes from the carers:
‘I chose Footprints as they were a smaller agency, and their website drew me in to wanting to find out more about fostering. After a visit from to social worker, whom I found warm and friendly, I felt that this was the agency that I wanted to be a part of. ‘I’m so glad that I did, as you become a part of the Footprints family, you’re not just a number who has a room and a bed for a child, you and the child are valued equally, and they will always do their best to match you and the child.’
Isn’t it great to read that Footprints was a great decision! At Footprints you are never a number, we have a small community of carers and minimized caseloads, so you really get to know your social worker.
‘Footprints are a small, local agency. We felt it would be more personal than a big agency where you don’t know anyone.
‘As it is local, so is the training which was also important to us. Footprints seemed, and are, more supportive than competitors’ Footprints is proud to have satisfied carers that feel supported.
This is part of the Footprints journey where Stephanie and Vanda set out to support carers ‘every step of the way’ resonating to footprints in the sand, taking steps towards brighter futures.
Health & Wellbeing
You can make a difficult situation easier
The advice team at local disability charity Diverse Abilities is encouraging the Dorset community to create a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) to make difficult situations easier for friends or family in the future.
A Lasting Power of Attorney is a means of keeping control of who would manage your affairs if you could no longer manage them yourself.
It is a legal document in which you name a person(s) that you trust and who knows you best to make decisions on your behalf in the event that you lose mental capacity for decision making.
Elaine Ewing, advice team manager, said: “Unfortunately it is a fact that any one of us could
have an accident or suffer an illness at any time which could result in physical difficulties or mental health problems. “With more than 900,000 in the UK living with dementia, we need to think about how we would manage our lives if something
happened to us.
“Most people assume that their family would automatically be able to manage their finances and manage their care needs if they could not do it for themselves but, without a lasting power of attorney in place, this
is not possible.”
A previous client of the advice team said: “I am very grateful to Diverse Abilities for their help in drawing up a Lasting Power of Attorney for my parents.
“I had not realised that a solicitor is not always required, and Diverse Abilities helped explain and arrange necessary documentation in a professional and sensitive manner.”
Working with the advice team will also save some money. The service charges an affordable fee, which is a substantially lower cost than most solicitors, with the fees going back into the charity. Find out more at diverseabilities. org.uk/advice or call 0300 330 5514 between 9am and 5pm,
Help youngsters who’ve had to leave home
n Could you foster or provide supported lodgings for an unaccompanied child or young person from another country?
Dorset Council is looking for people who would be willing to help young people who have had to leave their home and country and have been separated from their parents or carers.
Many of these children, who may be refugees or seeking asylum from persecution, will
WHAT IS CBD?
people have travelled for many months before arriving in the UK, said the council. Many have experienced difficult and traumatic circumstances and been separated from their families and friends, without their needs being met.
Dorset Council Portfolio Holder for Children, Byron Quayle, said: “You can be married, single or in a partnership, and from all ethnic groups and backgrounds because we are
Cannabidiol (CBD for short) is a naturally occurring cannabinoid derived from the cannabis plant. It is one of over one hundred cannabinoids identified in hemp plants.
However, unlike the full cannabis plant, CBD does not contain THC which is responsible for the stoned/high feeling that the recreational drug provides. Extracted from the flowers and buds of the hemp plant, CBD is being pressed into oil and is increasingly popular for a wide array of uses for your health, wellbeing and beauty.
When we take a CBD product, it interacts with our endocannabinoid system, yes, we already have a natural system for these endocannabinoids to interact with.
There are more and more evidence-backed health benefits of CBD, but be sure to use a high quality product for real benefits, there are plenty of lesser quality CBD on the ever growing market, often price related.
looking for all kinds of people to help care for these young people.
“As with any child, these young people need the safe and supportive environments that living in supported lodgings, or with a foster carer, can bring. If you have the time, space in your home, and are interested in helping to support these young people, then we want to hear from you.” Find out more at fosteringenquiries@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk.
YOUR HEALTH IS YOUR WEALTH
Pain Relief, Reduce Anxiety, Depression and Sleeping Disorders are some of the benefits of CBD Oil, one of the oldest natural remedies.
Our Milagro CBD Oil is the highest quality, genuine organic CBD Oil. Milagro CBD Oil is a full spectrum, distilled CBD Oil extracted with Cold pressed method to maximise the potency of vital Phyto cannabinoids CBD and CBG to create a powerful dietary supplement with a range of Health and Wellbeing benefits. Our CBD Oil products are legal, certificated and NOT Hallucinogenic.
For more information on products and benefits go to our web site where you can place your order with 20% off for new customers.
www.dorsetcbdoil.com
Retail house clearance shop is opened
Lewis-Manning Hospice Care has opened a new retail house clearance shop in Ringwood, on Southampton Road in the town centre.
The local community were invited along to the celebratory event, enjoying refreshments and the opportunity to be impressed with the brand-new shop. Cutting the ribbon was the town’s mayor, Gareth DeBoos, accompanied by his Consort, Mary DeBoos and deputy mayor, Rae Frederick. The hospice’s new store is opening due to the ever-growing demand for its house clearance services, as well as the increased need to raise vital funds for its charity services.
The mayor said: “What a shop, packed full of fantastic and sustainable bargains, definitely worth a visit, it’s a brilliant addition to the town and it’s been a real honour being asked along today to officially open it.”
Director of retail Susan Newcombe said:
“It was a great occasion opening our eighth hospice shop today.
“Our team and the contractors have put their heart and soul into making the new shop as spectacular as it can be.
“Moving, downsizing or house clearing
may be a very stressful time, and our aim is to reduce that stress as much as possible. “We can offer flexible, complete or partial house clearances and recycling services. For a free no-obligation quote, or to ask any questions you might have, give us a
Exploring Stour & Avon...
TARRANT CRAWFORD
Tarrant Crawford is a small parish so this walk is quite short, less than four miles, but (unless you’re a muggle) you might find up to 10 geocaches along the route.
Park in the lay-by on the B3075, close to where the Tarrant river crosses the road. Head upstream along the bridleway/track north eastward alongside the pretty stream. You’ll see some old buildings at Tarrant Abbey Farm on your right.
Soon you’ll come to a bridge over the Tarrant. After crossing it, visit the adjacent 12th century Church, which is always open. Built in the days before stained glass became fashionable, it has many ancient and somewhat faded wall paintings.
call today on 01202 119310 or email house. clearance@lewis-manning.org.uk.
“If you have a few hours to spare and would like to be part of the shop team, please have a look at our volunteering roles at lewismanning.org.uk/volunteer-vacancies.”
with retired Dorset rights of way officer CHRIS SLADE
uphill, then down to the road, which you cross and then follow the edge of three fields until the bridleway turns left and heads east to meet the road.
Turn left and head north east, passing Crawford Farm to a junction where there is an ancient cross, restored over a century ago.
Carry on north east and join a bridleway along a sunken track for half a mile, then at a junction, turn left for half a mile north west, enjoying the views.
The way descends into the valley and meets a bridleway next to the Tarrant.
There’s no electricity so the organist has to use pedals to pump air.
After leaving the Church, head south along a bridleway passing the Abbey and heading
Turn left and head south, downstream, and soon you’ll come back to the Church from where you turn right and head south west back to your car.
Health & Wellbeing
Want to talk about the menopause? No sweat
by Lorraine GibsonThe menopause. A phrase that can strike dread – or worse, shame - into the hearts of so-called ‘women of a certain age’. Although the subject has been dragged from under the carpet, thanks to an increased openness and the efforts of people like actress Rachel Weiss and the ubiquitous Davina McCall, the tendency for coughing and ruffling one’s newspaper when the topic arises is real.
This is where Wimborne’s Menopause Café comes in. Part of an international endeavor founded by Weiss, it aims to break down the stigma around menopause and increase awareness of its impact on those experiencing it and its impact on their loved ones and colleagues, through safe, informal chats.
Held at Walford Mill, it’s essentially a discussion group, open to all ages and genders with no talks, no experts and topics chosen by the participants.
The movement started in Perth, Scotland, in 2017 and now has volunteers hosting popup events in the UK and around the world. The charity stages an annual Menopause Festival, gleefully called #FlushFest. Rachel Weiss says: “The Menopause Café is for everyone who wants to talk about the menopause, to share their stories,
experiences and questions.
“Unfortunately, many feel that they should just ‘get on with’ the menopause, with some never talking to their friends or family about it. People can come along and just listen, or join in the discussions, hopefully leaving with a clearer sense of the impact... on those who are experiencing it.”
Kirsty Wark, a patron of the charity, says: “This is the way to a healthier, happier future.”
The Wimborne event is being organised
Shielding Your Home & Estate from Care Costs with a Living Trust
Advertisement feature
by Rona Jones and Nicki Curtis.
Rona said: “For many people, menopause is a long road and one that still isn’t talked about very much, although there has been more media coverage recently... We have much to gain by sharing our experiences and so, inspired by a BBC documentary, I set up a local Menopause Café for people to meet up and chat over tea and cake in a safe, non-judgmental space.”
At their first café in May, they discussed menopause-related topics such as imposter syndrome, anxiety, feeling overwhelmed and remedies for night sweats.
Rona adds: “Little Pickle at the (Walford) Mill are very kindly supporting us by opening up in the evening and we hope the event will be well attended.”
The café is free, but you should book via Eventbrite (below) so they can let the venue know numbers.
Tuesday, September 26.
Little Pickle at the Mill, Walford Mill, Stone Lane.
Contact: Rona Jones rona@wimborneosteopath.co.uk.
Further information: facebook. com/MenopauseCafeWimborne. To register: eventbrite.co.uk/e/menopausecafe-wimborne-sept-23-tickets710600975647?aff=ebdssbdestsearch.
Nobody likes to think about getting old, but it is certainly worth thinking about if you value your home. That is because your house could very well have a charge placed upon it or sold by the local council to pay for your care fees. If a person’s capital and savings, including equity in their home, is worth more than £23,250, they will have to fund their own care.
A living trust can shield your home and estate from care costs in the following ways.
Placing your main home into a living trust ring fences the property from any potential future care costs. With a living trust, you can be both a trustee and beneficiary. You can maintain control over your assets even after you pass away. You can specify how and when your assets should be distributed to your beneficiaries.
Other benefits of the trust include the avoidance of probate upon the property and the protection from both divorce & creditors for your beneficiaries. The situation won’t get better over time. The UK’s fastest-growing age group comprises those aged over 85. Councils will face even more pressure on budgets, leaving them with little choice but to continue to sell people’s homes.
To protect your home, contact Oakwood Wills on 07832 331594.
The main thing to remember with a trust is that because you do not own the assets held in the trust in your own name, a charge cannot be placed upon the home.
Chris Tennant Oakwood Wills.Health & Wellbeing
Can chiropractic care help with whiplash?
Whiplash related injury can be frustrating and debilitating and can affect things we enjoy along with our daily lives. Whiplash is common – with 3million new whiplash cases occurring every year, and about 50% of those cases turn into a chronic (long term) condition. So, what can we do if we are experiencing whiplash?
Rest & ice
The first thing that you will want to do is rest and ice your neck (only AFTER you have been cleared by the hospital if the accident was severe). The reason for this is because the soft tissue elements of the spine will be undergoing higher levels of inflammation – this inflammation will not only cause pain but will also restrict movement. While it is tempting straight away to try and move your neck - try not to. Movement too early can aggravate the area, so rest at this point is paramount. Ice is effective against inflammation, so will help to ease the pain.
Find your local chiropractor
We can look after injuries both new and old, and with whiplash it is best to sort it
sooner rather than later. As said above, about 50% of cases turn chronic, and whiplash cases can also be complicated by underlying conditions such as arthritis. Gentle adjustments, mobilisation, soft tissue work, and dry needling, can all help to ease the pain and prevent it becoming a chronic problem.
Here at the centre one of our chiropractors will start with a consultation to find out more about the incident, may or may not refer for x-rays, and then complete a detailed orthopaedic and neurological examination of your nerves, muscles and joints. We then form your treatment and
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
(NORMALLY £120)
exercise plan and go through this with you in the following session.
Gradually become mobile
As the initial inflammation starts to reduce, increase your movement – it’s bad advice now to stay in a neck brace and not move, those muscles will just get shorter and you’ll have further decreased mobility! Keep the movement gentle, but make sure to just keep mobile.
Keep good posture
Now more than ever, make sure to keep good posture! Sitting up straight and making sure your work space is as accessible as possible will help the healing process massively. Your chiropractor should also give you some exercises to assist with this.
Stay patient
Healing takes time, stay patient, keep icing, and most importantly – look after yourself!
To book an appointment with us please call us on 01202 604707 or email admin@ wimbornewellnesscentre.co.uk.
All your lighting needs under one roof…
Poole Lighting is one of the UK’s leading supplier of domestic lighting. Designed with passion in the UK and ethically sourced throughout the world, you will find our products in the UK’s best high street and internet retailers. Typically, our product is retailed by our customers using their own
brands but we also have over 75 years of experience with our own specialist lighting brands of Endon, Interiors 1900 and Saxby. 28 years ago we opened The Factory Shop in the middle of beautiful Poole in Dorset. We are proud to bring you fantastic end of line products that are no longer available on the high
street at incredibly low prices. We are open 6 days a week Sunday to Friday and you can also visit us online WWW.POOLELIGHTING FACTORYSHOP.COM where you can buy direct with confidence and as well as your statutory rights all of our product is guaranteed by us from 12 months plus.
Residents show support for 999 teams
Staff at Upton Bay Care Home in Hamworthy have opened up their doors to welcome the emergency services personnel in their local area.
As a way of saying thank you to the paramedics, nurses, police officers and other emergency services workers who don’t always have time to go home or back to their workplace on their break, the team and the residents of Upton Bay Care Home are providing free continental breakfasts every Monday in September and October to all emergency service staff.
Recently a fire crew from Poole station visited and enjoyed bacon baps, croissants and fresh coffee.
Some of the residents chatted to the watch which was made up of Jo, Steve, Matt and Lewis. They also enjoyed a tour of the fire engine.
Mevin Sohorye, general manager of the home, has extended the invitation throughout the area. He said: “Thank you for all of the great work our emergency services do for us”.
Upton Bay care home is run by
Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals. Upton Bay provides dementia, residential and respite care for 68 residents from respite care to long term stays. Visit: barchester.com/home/ upton-bay-care-home.
Council aims to cut cost of local tax reduction scheme
by Faith EckersallDorset Council is proposing to cut its Local Council Tax Reduction Scheme for working age people, for residents with savings over £16,000.
Currently, working-age people using the scheme can hold up to £16,000 in savings and be able to access assistance.
However, if the council’s new proposals are approved, the savings limit will drop to £6,000, which will potentially make more people ineligible. The change is just one of several the council is hoping to make, which, it claims will: ‘Make it easier for residents to understand and access, work better with the Universal Credit system and take away the need for constant changes to awards, making it easier to manage.’
These changes only affect working age people and, if adopted, would come into effect from April 1, 2024, said the council.
Requirements for a council tax reduction will change to an income-based matrix, taking into account a resident’s income and how many dependents they have, replacing the current meanstested system.
The proposals exclude some benefits from the calculation of income, protecting applicants who need support whilst receiving other benefits. Proposals also include restricting reductions to a council tax band E level, meaning that any applicants who live in a band F, G or H property will have their entitlement calculated at a band E level.
Under the existing scheme, residents with savings of up to £16,000 and a low income, may be eligible for the
discount, the proposed new scheme lowers this to a capital limit of £6,000. If you’d like to comment, you can complete a survey at this address: consultation. dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/ consultation-and-engagement/ counciltax.
The consultation closes on Wednesday, October 25, 2023.
•
Fine autumn show
There was a buzz in the air as the first visitors arrived for the Wimborne Gardening Clubs first Autumn Show held in the Allendale Centre, Wimborne Minster on September 9. For many years there has been both a spring and autumn show run by the Wimborne Horticultural Society but with a dwindling membership it was feared that last year’s autumn show might be the last. However, with show manager
Tony Beard and a small group of enthusiasts, it was relaunched under the name of the Wimborne Gardening Club. Visitors were greeted by more than 100 entries in 32 classes. Nine trophies were presented and each first prize winner received a £10 voucher donated by Stewarts Nurseries. Wimborne in Bloom, Wilding Wimborne and the Wimborne Community Garden each had a stand.
for gardening club
Going forward there will be monthly meetings on the first Monday of each month, moving to the second Monday when the first is a Bank Holiday. Meetings will be held in the Allendale Centre at 7.30pm with the first on Monday, October 2, when there will be a talk by David Ewer from Dorset Coppicing.
Martin Stewart, president of the club, who presented the awards, thanked those that gave up their
time to judge all the entries and all those who exhibited. He continued by saying we want to make Wimborne Gardening Club the friendliest, most inclusive, most relaxed and most welcoming gardening club around, welcoming the novice, the experienced, the old and wise as well as the young. You can keep up to date with all our activities and events by visiting wimborne gardeningclub.co.uk.
Fab Frayn favourite for town theatre
The perennial favourite, Noises Off, is coming to Poole’s Lighthouse Theatre from Tuesday to Saturday, October 10 to14.
Michael Frayn’s farce about a play within a play is one of the most popular shows in British theatre and this Theatre Royal Bath production features Liza Goddard and Matthew Kelly. The actor, who plays Selsdon Mowbray, an elderly, drinkloving and hard-of-hearing pro, is enjoying the part because, he says: “I think Noises Off is what we would like to be true of a tour. “When you see the backstage stuff it’s kind of enlarged for comic effect, but that’s how Michael Frayn came to write it in the first place,” he says. “He had written a one-act play about 42 years ago and he was backstage watching the actors from the wings and he thought what was going on backstage was funnier than what was going on in his play.”
Booking details here: lighthouse poole.co.uk/event/noises-off.
Blues, gospel, rock and wry tales
by Lorraine GibsonThere’s no one in music quite like Mark Harrison. His songs cover all sorts of non-standard subjects with catchy tunes, engaging lyrics, and striking rhythms designed to make audiences ‘smile, think and move.’
Blending roots, including folk, blues and gospel, his material’s very much his own genre, with each number a story or snapshot of life – ‘like a threeminute film or novel.’
An exciting finger-picker and slide player, Harrison tours extensively; he has released six albums - the latest The Road to Liberty - that enjoy loads of airplay and draw great reviews in
Musical mayhem from Fronk!
ENCORE! Theatre Productions
are proud to present live on stage at the Regent; 26-28th October 2023.
The comedy genius Mel Brooks adapts his legendarily funny film into a brilliant stage creation:
Young Frankenstein! The Musical…
Grandson of the infamous Baron Victor von Frankenstein, Frederick Frankenstein (pronounced “Fronk-en-steen”) inherits his family’s estate in Transylvania. With the help of a hunchbacked side-kick, Igor (pronounced “Eye-gore”), and a leggy lab assistant, Inga (pronounced normally), Frederick finds himself in the mad scientist shoes of his ancestors.
“It’s alive!” he exclaims as he brings to life a creature to rival his grandfather’s. Eventually, of course, the monster escapes and hilarity continuously abounds.
. With such memorable tunes as “The Transylvania Mania,” “He Vas My Boyfriend” and “Putting On The Ritz”; Young Frankenstein! Is scientifically-proven to be monstrously good entertainment.
Get your tickets now!
theregent.co.uk/event/76301
the UK, Europe and the US.
Add an incomparable rhythm section and you’ve a band that’s in demand, playing top UK venues and festivals and has guesting on BBC Radio 2’s Cerys Matthews’s show.
Described at Radio 2 as a ‘quirky’ artist who ‘makes you think afresh’, his live shows are celebrated not only for the music but also for his introductions to the songs.
Mark Harrison Band - Harrison on 12-string guitars/vocals; Charles Benfield on double bass/ vocals); Ben Welburn on drums/percussion). Wednesday, September 27, 7.30pm tivoliwimborne.co.uk.
A Gert lush show by Lucy
The life of 1930s musical comedy actress, Gertrude Lawrence, known for her roles in Noel Coward’s plays, is brought to life as ‘Gertie’ (Lucy Stevens) comes to Dorset to tell her story, from the star’s perspective. Stevens has cleverly crafted a vibrant script using Lawrence’s own words from her autobiography, A Star Danced, and accompanied by pianist Elizabeth Marcus, she embodies the spirit of Gertie through songs and storytelling from her Clapham childhood to London’s swanky nightclubs and the bright lights of Broadway.
As a feisty woman, Lawrence transcended the class ceiling to forge a stage and screen career that lasted well into her fifties. This show, bursting with songs by Coward, Kurt Weill, Rodgers and Hammerstein and more, celebrates her brilliance - on and off stage - with a pacy dialogue
that promises to be both funny and revealing.
Gertrude Lawrence: A Lovely Way To Spend An Evening comes via Artsreach.
Thursday, Oct 19, 7.30pm. Langton Matravers Village Hall. 01929 423834
Friday, Oct 20, 7.30pm. Nether Compton Village Hall. 07866 140288. artsreach.co.uk.
Singers set to celebrate anniversary
The Ridgway Singers & Band will be presenting a celebration of traditional music, folksong, West Gallery carols and stories from Dorset, in celebration of their 10th anniversary.
The group was formed by Artsreach in 2013 to explore the musical traditions of the South Dorset Ridgeway and is led by serpent player Phil Humphries and folk musician, actor and storyteller Tim Laycock. The group initially rehearsed at Abbotsbury Village Hall, and researched the carols and Christmas music, stories and poetry of the Ridgeway area. The following year they looked at the folk songs collected by the Hammond brothers in Dorset, and the dance tunes of the Hardy and Benjamin Rose collections. The group’s repertoire has expanded to include new songs and music on local themes composed by members and their many musical friends in the county. They will be performing in Ansty, right in the heart of the Blackmore Vale. The programme will include seasonal songs, dance tunes from the collection of Benjamin Rose of Belchalwell near Ibberton, and readings from Barnes and Hardy. The concert takes place on Trafalgar Day, October21, and the group will be marking the occasion with some suitable musical items!
The concert will also be performed in the west of the county, at St Mary’s Parish Church in Bridport, in a matinee performance at 4.00pm on Saturday, October 29, 7.30pm, Old Brewery Hall, Hartfoot Lane, Ansty DT2 7PN Sunday, October 29, 4.00pm, St Mary’s Church, South Street, Bridport DT6 3NW
Tickets: Adults £12; Under-18s £6. Refreshments available. Book via ridgewaysingersand band.org or call 01305 262159.
Arts & Entertainments
A season for travelling
We are starting to look forward to the colder months and from historic buildings and classic car shows to Christmas shopping trips and festive breaks, Heathside Travel can whisk you away in one of our luxurious, modern coaches. In October we head to Stourhead, one of the National Trust’s flagship properties. The autumn colours should be spectacular in their acres of grounds, and the house boasts a Regency library, and inspirational artwork. If you prefer a royal residence, then join our trip to Hampton Court Palace.
For the transport enthusiast, we are visiting the NEC in Birmingham for the Classic Motor Show on November 10 – a must for anyone with a passion for classic vehicles. We are back at the NEC on November 25 for the Warley National Model Railway Exhibition, featuring layouts from all the popular gauges, as well as specialist trade stands and expert demonstrations.
For the festive season, we have visits to the major Christmas markets in the area, as well as two holidays in December. On December 8, we head to Norwich for the weekend to see the incredible Thursford Christmas Spectacular show. This extravaganza of singing, dancing, music and variety is the biggest of its kind in Europe and features a cast of 130 performers. On December we head to the beautiful Abbey Hotel in Great Malvern to spend a relaxing Christmas in the Malvern Hills. Enjoy entertainment, a traditional Christmas lunch, and the chance to see some of the local area. We pick up in Ringwood, Verwood, Ferndown, West Moors and Wimborne for day trips, with pickups in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole for the holidays.
For a brochure containing the details of all the excursions and festive holidays, please contact Heathside Travel on 01202 892202, or email info@ heathsidetravel.co.uk.
Show highlights pinnacles of coast path
Embroidery fans can take a trip along the South West Coast Path - without leaving an exhibition in Dorset. To mark its 50th anniversary, members of the West Country Embroiderers group have created 166 panels taking viewers on a trip through Dorset, Devon and Cornwall.
The panels capture landmarks along the coast path, from Dorset through Devon and Cornwall - all three counties that make up the group. Founded in 1973, the not-for-profit group was established to promote the skills and knowledge of all forms of textile work.
Autonomous groups operate independently under the the group umbrella and welcome members of all ages, abilities and interests.
“Members from across the organisation have embroidered 166 panels to illustrate landmarks along the path, using any stitching
technique they wish,” a spokesman said.
“The A5-sized, vertically-worked embroideries are unframed, but displayed consecutively so that the viewer ‘walks’ the coast path. “A stitched map of the coastline is included and panels marking the county borders have also been inserted.”
The South West Coast Path embroideries are being exhibited at various venues in each of the three counties during the anniversary year. The exhibition has been displayed in Truro Cathedral and the Dorset Arts and Crafts Association Showcase in August.
Now, it is set to make its way to Upton Country Park, near Poole, where it will go on show in the Gallery Upstairs between October 5 and 9.
The gallery will be open from 10am to 4.30pm and admission is free.
PROJECT PLAY PRESENTS A VICAR OF DIBLEY CHRISTMAS
Arts & Entertainments
It’s almost time for the Big Quiz
Friends of Victoria Hospital, Wimborne, are inviting local quiz groups and individuals to a fundraising Big Quiz on Monday, October 9, to support the work of the hospital. The Big Quiz promises to be an entertaining and fun evening of questions on a range of areas: science; history and geography; books; current affairs, etc, from easy to challenging and everything in between!
Come as an individual or come as a group of up to six people. There will be prizes, a raffle and licensed bar – bring your own snacks too.
Cost: £5 on the door – cash or cheque. Come alone or bring a team up to six. Please reserve places as soon as possible.
Venue: The Allendale Centre, Hanham Road, BH21 1AS. Doors: 7pm for 7.30 sharp start. For further details and to book, contact Jeff Hart, trustee, at jeffhart414@gmail.com or call 0102 884201.
Fri
Volunteer positions for Frink fans
by Faith EckersallIf you’re a fan of the late, Dorset-based artist and sculptor, Elisabeth Frink, the county’s museum is offering a unique way to get involved in a new major exhibition.
The museum is recruiting volunteer gallery stewards to help visitors to the Elisabeth Frink: A View From Within show which runs from December 2 until April next year.
The show highlights the work Dame Elisabeth created at her Woolland studio, including sculptures, prints, drawings, and personal possessions.
HIGH ST, CHRISTCHURCH (01202) 499199
www.theregent.co.uk
THEATER CAMP (12A)
| Mon 25 Sep: 15:30
OPPENHEIMER ON 35MM FILM (15)
Fri 22 Sep: 20:15 | Sat 23 Sep: 14:00 & 20:15
KATAK THE BRAVE BELUGA (PG)
Sat 23 Sep: 10:30 | Sun 24 Sep: 10:30 (KID’S CLUB)
While his peers have all turned white, Katak is still small and grey. To prove that he has grown up and to grant the last wish of his grandma, he departs on a perilous journey to the Great North.
ROYAL OPERA HOUSE: DAS RHEINGOLD (12A)
Sun 24 Sep: 14:00
THE INNOCENT (15)
Sun 24 Sep: 19:45 (S) | Mon 25 Sep: 18:00 (S)
When Abel learns that his mother is about to marry a man in prison, he freaks out. With the help of his best friend, he will do whatever it takes to protect her.
ARE YOU THERE GOD? IT’S ME, MARGARET (PG)
Mon 25 Sep: 10:30 (SILVER SCREEN)
When her family moves from the city to the suburbs, 11-year-old Margaret navigates new friends, feelings, and the beginning of adolescence.
STRAYS (15)
Mon 25 Sep: 20:30
An abandoned dog teams up with other strays to get revenge on his former owner.
CHRISTCHURCH GILVERT & SULLIVAN SOCIETY PRESENTS: HMS PINAFORE (LIVE)
Mon 25 Sep: 20:30
Thu 28 Sep: 19:30 | Fri 29 Sep: 19:30 | Sat 30 Sep: 14:30 & 19:30
HMS Pinafore is one of Gilbert and Sullivan’s most popular works, telling the tales of forbidden love and the inequalities of social and naval rank.
THE LORAX (U)
Sun 1 Oct: 10:30 (KID’S CLUB)
A 12-year-old boy searches for the one thing that will enable him to win the affection of the girl of his dreams.
A LITTLE LIFE (18)
Sun
Some of these objects have never been on public display, such as her tools, and the working plasters that provided the basis for her bronze sculptures.
“Volunteers will play a pivotal role in engaging with visitors, offering information about the exhibition, and performing a key role in ensuring that objects on display are supervised at all times,” said the museum.
“No prior background in art or knowledge about Elisabeth Frink’s work is necessary as we encourage everyone to explore and learn about the artist.” Visit dorsetmuseum.org/volunteering.
Cinderella tickets already selling fast, oh yes they are!
by Lorraine GibsonLong before the summer clothes are packed away and the last burger’s been prised from the barbie, people appear to be thinking about the P word . . . Seems the most magical time of the year has already started as Wimborne’s Tivoli Theatre is already reporting recordbreaking ticket sales for its panto this year – and that’s on the back of successes with its previous Aladdin and Sleeping Beauty shows.
Made to Measure Productions, returning with a brand-new, super-sparkling production of perennial favourite, Cinderella, promises a magical winter wonderland, a couple of adultsonly dates, spectacular effects, wicked ugly sisters trying to prevent Cinderella from getting her happy ever after and ‘the biggest pantomime Wimborne has ever seen’. They say: “Book your seats
now – before the clock strikes midnight – otherwise, not even the Fairy Godmother will be able to magic you up a ticket.” Polish off a summer spritzer or buff up your innuendos? You decide.
Now, where’s me sunglasses? tivoliwimborne.co.uk.
New immersive drama is a tour de force
Words & pictures by Lorraine GibsonWhen I was invited to experience Pride, a part-factual, part-fictional ‘immersive audio drama’ tour of Kingston Lacy I was interested.
When I heard that it was inspired by an alleged clandestine visit by its exiled heir, William John Bankes in 1854 – something I’ve always hoped really happened - how could I resist?
Found in ‘compromising circumstances with a guardsman’ in London’s Green Park in 1841, John, a politician, explorer and Egyptologist, was in a dire situation.
Barely six years since England’s last executions for sodomy, same-sex intercourse still carried the death penalty. Unlike many men who met the hangman, John was wealthy and was able to escape the noose by fleeing to the continent.
While exiled, he continued to collect things to decorate Kingston Lacy, shipping precious objects and artworks to Dorset to be displayed (with precise instructions on how and where) in the home he’d never see again.
Or would he? Legend has it that John secretly visited under cover of darkness to see his
plans in situ before returning to Venice, where he eventually died.
The tour begins with his covert arrival in the foyer. Using my headset (optional) and digital handset, I found the first of nine numbered markers that would steer me around the story’s hotspots. Keying in the markers’ numbers triggered location-relevant audio performances. Each was pacy, with convincing characters and punctuated with facts (some new to me) that never felt shoehorned in.
On I went through the rooms, getting into the action and the nuggets of detail - like the story behind the library’s leather ‘wallpaper’, the maverick means John used to acquire some of the treasures, his close friendship with Lord Byron who nicknamed him ‘the father of all mischief’ and his obsession with tortoises. Along with a real one that he toted around in a bag, he had several cast in brass (which explains the tortoise ‘feet’ of the planters at the rear of the house).
Pride, by Dorsetborn, was created by Naomi Denny, also my virtual guide, director Rohan Gotobed and produced by Olivia Tetlow.
A big hand for Freddie Lewis for composing and creating
such quality sound and to the actors, Neil James, Melody Fisher, Jamie-Lee Hill and India Murray who voiced the bitesized scenes.
It’s a fun way to explore our famous stately pile at your own pace, with insights into the lavish contents as well as the complex and eccentric William John Bankes himself. Oh, and it’s free! nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/ kingston-lacy.
A feeling for art at exhibition
Members of Poole and East Dorset Art Society (Pedas) are holding their autumn exhibition, ‘A Feeling For Art’, in the Gallery Upstairs at Upton Country Park. The societyis a longestablished local art club, now a charity, celebrating its 100th anniversary next year.
Exhibition Title: A Feeling for Art
Dates: October 13 to 30, 2023
Venue: The Gallery Upstairs, Upton Country Park, Poole, BH17 7 BJ.
Opening times: 10 am –4.30pm.
Free entry, small parking charge, fully accessible for all. thegalleryupstairs.org.uk pedas.org.uk.
The image shown here is by Teresa Senior, entitled ‘Flower of the Hour’.
It’s a watercolour, 32 x 42 cm.
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’.
There is much excitement at High Mead Farm this month, as plans are afoot to host a Samhain Festival on Saturday, October 28.
Traditionally, Samhain, a Gaelic word pronounced “SAHwin”, takes place at the end of October and originates from an ancient Celtic spiritual tradition of welcoming in the harvest and ushering in ‘the dark half of the year’.
Early writings claim Samhain was marked by great gatherings and feasts.
Cattle were brought down from the summer pastures and special bonfires were lit; these were deemed to have protective and cleansing powers. There were offerings of food and drink to the old Pagan gods, to ensure the people and their livestock survived the winter. Legend has it that offerings or sacrifices were made, these included corn, milk - even children!
Although some of the more outrageous texts suggest that a first-born child would be
High Quality 5 string meadow hay bales available - £50 horse bedding£10 per bale 00
sacrificed as part of the ritual, we will not be following the tradition to the letter and visitors to the Farm can rest assured that their little poppets will remain safe.
The High Mead Farm Samhain Festival will be filled with music and dancing, food and fun, and, most importantly, fancy dress – all our favourite activities!
The Farm is looking for participants and stall holders for the event, so please do get in touch if you feel you have something that might be of interest.
October also heralds a super ‘singing fundraiser’ on behalf of the Farm.
Singing has long been recognised and prescribed for
Farming & Environment
its therapeutic benefits. It offers a whole-body experience, requiring intentional deep breaths – a tried and tested method of relaxation – triggering the release of endorphins and dopamine.
Our Co-Farmers love to sing, and Mark has often talked of starting a High Mead choir, but with so much work to do we never quite find the time to get a group off the ground. So, whilst you can’t sign up to listen to our Co-Farmers’ choral chimes, you can support the Farm by booking tickets to the next Viva Voce performance at the Allendale Centre, Wimborne, in October. Those lucky enough to hear Viva Voce performing at our
Spring Fayre back in May will know what a treat we are in for.
Viva Voce share their music throughout the community, supporting local charities, and this year they have chosen to support High Mead Farm. So you can be sure that every ticket will not only present you with fun, foot-tapping tunes and heart-lifting harmonies, but you’ll also be helping the Farm at the same time! With all these plans to prepare for, it’s a
wonder we’re getting any work done!
But with harvest well under way the team are busy, busy, busy... but not too busy for a bit of fun along the way if our recent veg stock is anything to go by! Viva Voce is a local, award-winning choir formed in 2016. Their special fundraising concert is on Saturday, October 7, 7:30pm. Tickets are on sale now! ticketsource.co.uk/vivavoce.
Recruitment
Pall Bearer/Driver (Part-time)
The main duties include Pall Bearing, driving and chauffeur duties on funerals, therefore the applicant must be smart in appearance with good communication skills and hold a full driving licence. Duties also include being on the out of hours on -call rota which entails providing assistance for removals of the deceased into our care at weekends and evenings.
This is a casual part-time position with hours of work dependent on the number of funerals y ou are requested to attend and being available for the on -call rota.
Applications in writing with CV to Colin J Close Funeral Service, Peel Close, Blandford Forum
DT11 7JU. Tel. 01258 453133 www.close-funeral.co.uk
GENERAL MAINTENANCE WORKER required for a large private Estate near Tisbury, Wiltshire. A proactive ‘can do’ attitude is essential as well as a willingness to learn, and to be happy working as part of a team or independently. Competence with machinery including medium sized tractors and trailers is required, as well as the use of power tools, and the ability to spray (PA1, PA6), mow, strim & hedge cut. To support the role there will be scope for additional training & development. Awareness of H& S procedures is vital. Full, clean UK driver’s licence essential. Please email CV & covering letter to Matthew Riggs at mr@fonthill.co.uk
Recruitment
Qualified Accountant (ACA/ACCA)
Are you looking to get back into work, fed up with a daily commute or re-assessing your work life balance?
Acconomy, a cloud -based, forward -thinking Accountancy Practice is looking for an additional team member with a like -minded attitude.
You will manage a portfolio of small Ltd companies managing their accounts, tax and business advice. An opportunity to enhance your CV through use of eg Xero, QBO, Brightpay, fathomhq, in a relaxed but professional environment. Flexible home-based working, hours to suit. No commuting required. If you’re returning to work after time out then you can build up your hours over time.
Please email your cv to nigel@acconomy.co.uk or call Nigel Simmons on 01202 678993.
Part Time Leisure Assistant / Lifeguard –Shaftesbury
(Full time salary range from £22,183 to £24,294 per annum)
Do you hold a National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (or are willing to undertake the NPLQ) and are looking for part time hours? We can be flexible with hours – this role is key to ensuring that we can provide quality leisure facilities
Our Leisure Assistant/Lifeguard is responsible for assisting all visitors to the Leisure facilities on site, undertaking lifeguard duties for the pool, cleaning and completing tests and records in line with legislation and safety standards. We offer a competitive salary, 31 days annual salary (pro rata), NEST pension and access to an employee assistance programme
Call 01747 449 858 to request a full job description and application form, or apply online: www.tes.com/jobs/vacancy/ -1909931
Closing date for applications: 1 October 2023. NOTE: Interviews will be during September for suitable candidates as they apply, so don’t delay getting in touch!
We are committed to the safeguarding of all our pupils. The successful applicant must be willing to undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and an enhanced
BLANDFORD FORUM ALMSHOUSE CHARITY
VACANT ONE BEDROOMED newly refurbished FIRST FLOOR FLAT at our Barnes Homes site
Trustees are looking to appoint a single person or couple (aged 50+) who is/are of good character and have stron g links with Blandford or immediate area. Applicants must be of limited income and be non-smokers. No pets are allowed. There is no parking on site.
Initial enquiries may be made by calling the Chairman of Trustees on 07990 894250. Trustees look forward to receiving your written enquiry giving details of your current residency, personal circumstances, and reasons for applying to: -
The Clerk, Blandford Forum Almshouse Charity, Barnes Homes, Salisbury Road, Blandford Forum, Dorset. DT11 7HU.
Closing date 5th October 2023
Port Regis is a delightful preparatory school, for day and boarding children aged 2-13, in Shaftesbury, Dorset.
We are seeking to recruit to the following role s:
GYMNASTICS COACHES *
LEARNING ASSISTANT
SWIMMING TEACHERS *
* The necessary training and qualifications for these roles are desired but not essential and can be arranged for suitable candidates with availability to work during the afternoon, evening or at weekends
The successful candidates can expect competitive rates of pay and benefits; and to join an exceptional working environment and staff team.
For full details of the roles and application procedure, please visit our website - portregis.com/vacancies
Early applications encouraged
Port Regis (Charity No: 306218) is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful applicants will be required to undertake an Enhanced DBS and safer recruitment vetting checks.
Recruitment
St Gregory’s Church, Marnhull, Dorset, seek to appoint an experienced and enthusiastic organist and choir director.
The intention is to develop our church music and re-establish a SATB choir for the next generation.
The primary focus is on church worship with opportunities for community-wide recitals. RSCM rates are given. For more information please contact Reverend Gaenor Hockey (Rector designate) revdgaenor@ protonmail.me or 01258 821605.
Carer for elderly lady needed for two hours a day near Wimborne. £15p/h.
References please.
Telephone Nicky - 07794 364931
Experienced Support Worker
required to join an existing team for an adult lady, providing 24 hour support in her family home. You would be required to provide assistance with personal care and daily living activities.
PART-TIME PA TO LOCAL BUSINESSMAN AND HIS FAMILY
Chaotic family and busy chairman have exhausted their PA after 20 years and are looking to trade her in.
The job description encompasses everything from keeping the bird feeders topped up to running a cashflow, with a more detailed list available to interested applicants. The successful person will be trustworthy, unfazeable, experienced, adaptable, responsive and good-natured with comprehensive computer skills and a head for figures.
The job is well paid, interesting, varied and flexible but the right person needs to be available and ready for the next crisis. Initially 10/20 hours per week but could shrink or grow.
After training, hours can be spilt between the home office near Milborne Port and home working.
Expressions of interest in the first instance to Alice at pa@animos.co.uk
Cleaner wanted, 4/5 hours per week. Central Sherborne home. 07711 549235.
Driver required Full time.
NDDC Taxi Licence required.
Easily obtainable.
Further details 07813 209841
A.P.Stephens & son Ltd
Require Multi-Skilled Labourer
Full time
Blandford
Call Luke 07818 297152
Full Time Chef required for busy village pub
Attractive Salary and package available for the right candidate. Four days on three off. Please call 01258 268107 for more details
Cleaner required 5 hours/week in Shillingstone covering two houses.
References essential. £15/hr.
Call 07469 884428
Full-time bricklayer/ ground-worker required for immediate start for work around North Dorset.
Good rates of pay, holiday & pension. Van supplied. Must be able to use own initiative and work independently.
For more information, contact Simon on 07967808045.
Own car is essential due to rural location and 24 + hours of work a week available, doing 12/24 hour shifts. Rota and pay to be discussed at interview. Please enquire further or send your cv to cmorris@bushco.co.uk
YMCA RETAIL BLANDFORD
Store Manager 37.5hr £20,962.50
Assistant Manager 22.5hr £12,226.50 ….jobs with meaning. ymca.current-vacancies.com
JOB VACANCYPRINT FINISHER
Reporting to the Shop Supervisor, working in the production department which would include operating mailing machines and finishing equipment – if you have experience in a printing or mailing environment you might the right person for us. Competitive salary, pension scheme.
Requirements
• Mechanically minded
• Computer literate
• An eye for detail
• Good at handling paper
• Working to tight deadlines.
Initially contacting our Director Martyn Harvey – and persuading him you’re the right candidate for the job 01747 820960 – including emailing a CV to mharvey@mailandprint.co.uk
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
SANDLEHEATH
Sandleheath Village Stores
SHAPWICK
Shirley
SPETISBURY
Village Hall Box
Clampets Farm
STANBRIDGE
Aunt Fannys Farm Shop
Artisan Shop
STAPEHILL
Spar
Wimborne Garden
Centre
THREE LEGGED CROSS
Woolsbridge Farm
Feeds
Hillier Garden Centre
Londis
UPTON
Lytchett & Upton
Council Library
Aldi
VERWOOD
Verwood Heritage Centre
Verwood Library
Andrews Butchers
Co-op Southern
Tesco Express
The Hub
Lidl
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
Co-op Petrol Station
Southern
Keating Butchers
W. H. Smith
Allendale Centre
Hearnes
Green Man
Wimborne Minster
Porch
Coach & Horses
V & A Store
Tourist Information/ Museum
Fair Ground Fair Trade Shop
Gullivers Book Shop
Spar
Fluffetts Farm
Dacombes
WOW Fitness
Concrete & Floor Screed
Concrete & Floor Screed
STURMINSTER
David’s of Wimborne
Wimborne Library
Mixed On site
Mixed On Site
MARSHALL
Any Quantity Delivered
Any Quantity Delivered
Nisa Local
Vines Close Farm Shop
Wimborne Community Centre
Cricketers Arms
Sand Gravel Stone Cement Blocks etc
Sand Gravel Stone Cement Blocks etc
TARRANT
WIMBORNE
Supplied Loose or in Big Bags
Supplied Loose or in Big Bags
KEYNESTON Bus Shelter
ST GILES
Post Office
Good Quality Top Soil in Stock
Good Quality Top Soil in Stock
Now available... Rockery Stone
Now available... Rockery Stone
TARRANT
LAUNCESTON
The Shed
TARRANT RAWSTON
WINTERBORNE
ZELSTON
Red Post Filling Station
Competitive Rates
01747 853687 or 01747 855630
Competitive Rates 01747 853687 or 01747 855630
Cart Shed
TUCKTON
Nisa
WITCHAMPTON
Club/Shop
WOODLANDS
www.hardimanconcrete.co.uk
www.hardimanconcrete.co.uk
Tesco Express
The Egg Shed
Could you give a child a foster home?
Crossword
London Boroughs
16
(7)
18 Eager (6)
21 Presumes (5)
22 Queries (4)
Brain chain
Motoring
PREPARE YOUR CAR FOR WINTER
WE ARE E XPANDING
We
www.gleampro.co.uk
hello@gleampro.co.uk
and are growing to offer you even more parts for your vehicles
VIEWINGS BY APPOINTMENT
2018 (18) Dacia Sandero Stepway 0.9TCe Laureate 5dr. 90bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, sat nav, parking sensors, reverse camera, hill start assist, Bluetooth, cruise control, upto 55mpg, only 12,400 miles ..........................................................................£9650
2018 (18) Ford Fiesta 1.0T EcoBoost Titanium Nav 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, sat nav, cruise control, touch screen, Bluetooth, hill start assist, auto lights & wipers, auto main beam, sign recognition, lane keeping aid, parking sensors, award winning engine, upto 65mpg, 88,800 miles ......................................................£8950
2016 (66) Ford Fiesta 1.0T EcoBoost Zetec Nav Automatic 3dr. 100bhp, petrol, 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, park sensors, city pack, hill start assist, Bluetooth, £35 road tax, upto 57mpg, 22,800 miles ........................................................................£10450
2013 (13) Land Rover Freelander 2, 2.2SD4 HSE 4x4 Automatic Station Wagon 5dr. 190bhp, diesel, 6 speed automatic gearbox, 4 wheel drive, hill start & descent, sat nav, heated leather & steering wheel, twin sunroof, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, Bluetooth, cambelt kit replaced, only 54,900 miles ...£14950
2016 (66) Mercedes Benz B180d 1.5 SE Executive 5dr. 110bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, heated leather, sat nav, parking sensors, reverse camera, cruise control, auto lights, sign recognition, Bluetooth, hill start assist, large boot, only £20 a year road tax & upto 71mpg, 52,900 miles, selling on behalf of a cusomer ............£11850
2011 (11) Mini Clubman 1.6 Cooper Estate 5dr. 122bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, Chili pack, partial leather, park sensors, Bluetooth, cruise control, hill start assist, air con, decent boot, 82,500 miles ......................................................................................£5850
2017 (17) Peugeot 108 1.2 Allure 5dr. 82bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, reverse camera, touch screen, auto lights, hill start assist, Bluetooth, air con, alloys, 38,900 miles .........................£7650
2016 (66) Skoda Yeti Outdoor 1.2TSi SE 5dr. 110bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, high seating, big boot, sat nav, parking sensors, cruise control, Bluetooth, hill start assist, cambelt replaced, 53,900 miles ........................................................................£12650
2020 (20) Suzuki Vitara 1.4 BoosterJet SZ-T Automatic SUV 5dr. 140bhp, petrol, 6 speed automatic gearbox, high seating, big boot, cruise control, Bluetooth, sat nav, reverse camera, hill start assist, 18,500 miles ........................................................................
2014 (14) Vauxhall Astra 1.6 Design Automatic Estate 5dr. 115bhp, petrol, 6 speed automatic gearbox, flat fold rear seats, large boot, parking sensors, cruise control, alloys, air con, 41,900 miles .................................................................................. £8250
Wimborne retain South West League title
ATHLETICS
with Peter Impett
Wimborne Athletic Club have retained their South West Athletics League title. Already four points ahead after match 3 Wimborne were pushed hard by the host club Exeter but team manager Paula Hine made sure that they kept their noses in front. In addition to the overall title, the club won the trophies in the Under 13 girls, Under 13 boys, Senior Women and Relay categories.
Not content with winning the Under 13 girls and Relay titles, Ava Elliott Smith, Kayla Robbins, Aspen Stobart and Rosie Gollings, pictured, smashed the league and club relay record with a time of 53.26. Kayla had previously won the high jump with 1m45 and the long jump with 4m39.
Aspen won the shot with 9m34 while Ava was second in the 200 metres 28.86, and third in the 100 metres in 13.70.
The Under 13 boys were big scorers. Elliott Trickey won the long jump with 4m83 and the 200 metres in 27.87. He was also second in the 100 metres, 12.95, followed home by Harley Stanley in third in 13.56. Stanley was second in the 200 in 28.75 and Lucas Jolliffe provided a
supporting third place in the long jump with 4m37.
Under 15’s provided some solid performances with Cadey Turner winning the javelin with 32m28 with Samuel John, 29.92, close behind in third place. Olivia Jones was third in the shot, 8m49, and Iris Jones third in the 200 metres in 28.73.
Jack Williams provided the most spectacular performance of the day surviving two third attempt successes to jump 1m90, an improvement on his personal best of 10 centimetres.
Lucy Lucas warmed up for the English Schools Multi Events later this month with a second place long jump, 4m48, and a
third in the 200 metres in 27.18. The throwers were busy with Winter Stobart collecting second place in the discus, 27m05, and a third place in the hammer, 31m22. Leilani Roberts was third in the discus, 25m60. In the senior age groups points were harder to come by but Mattie Effick’s 41m95 third place in the javelin was worth a watch. Jakob Roberts added valuable points with a 23.89 hammer throw and a 1m80 third placed high jump. Club legend Dave Pearson was third in the shot, 7m81.
Anita Hayward was second in the pole vault as was Abbie Hine in the 3000 metres.
Amy Darragh’s 23m08 gave her second place in the discus. Team manager Paula Hine was ecstatic about the club’s performance and paid tribute to the athletes, officials and volunteer helpers who had secured the club’s win. Results
Heat is on but it’s no sweat for cool man Belk
What an end to the season!
Blistering heat, and 15 eager young anglers fighting for a place on the winner’s podium.
The venue was Holbury Lakes, nestled in a forgotten corner of Hampshire, the nearest big city being the bright lights of Romsey. It’s a favourite of the Fly Fishers; beautifully scenic with three lakes, a hunting lodge and tranquility beyond compare.
Fishery manager George is the perfect host.
It was a serious occasion with eight anglers all in the race for the season’s top spot.
The temperature touched 33C at one point, which regular readers will know makes catching cold water species like trout a real challenge.
Any fish under 2lb could be returned but this rule could spell disaster for anglers who returned the fish and then failed to catch.
One angler who held his nerve was John Belk, who released his 1lb 15oz trout in the hope of targeting a larger fish.
With minutes to go he hooked into a large rainbow and took not only the biggest fish at 4.5lb, but also the equal heaviest bag of the day at 12lb 3oz. Special mention must go to Mike Slater (pictured right) who also landed 12lb 3oz, but was beaten by John’s four and a half pound whopper.
Anglers must now await next month’s AGM to find out who takes the season’s honours. Watch this space!
Magpies now free to focus on promotion
FOOTBALL
Iain Fullerton
The excitement was palpable on a cloudy, humid Saturday afternoon at the New Cuthbury with a record all-time attendance of 1, 852 spectators, including a few hundred away fans.
With the gulf in status between the 2 sides (Wimborne Town tier 8, Torquay United tier 6) Wimborne needed to put the visitors under pressure with a fast start.
They did not disappoint with two early strikes on the opposition goal but, unfortunately from the home team’s perspective, one shot went just wide, and the other
Puzzle solutions
was magnificently saved by the visiting keeper at full stretch to his left.
Ultimately, the visitors showed their superior class ,with two quick goals in the 18th and 22nd minutes.
Despite a further strike on the visitors’ goal, which required another excellent save low to his left ,the visitors went in 2-0 ahead at the break.
Clearly, it was now backs against the wall for the home side and they needed an early goal to get back in the contest. This chance came very early with Satterley in on goal one on one against the keeper ,but his shot sailed just wide of the keeper’s right-hand post.
Unfortunately, having used all their substitutions, Satterley was forced to leave the field of play with concussion following a nasty clash of heads.
As a result, Town were forced to play most of the last quarter with only 10 men.
However, the home side continued to show excellent spirit, in particular Man of the Match Jez Bedford having further efforts on goal.
Perhaps unsurprisingly ,the visitors scored a third goal in the 84th minute, giving a gloss to the final score line which was rather unfair on the home team. Clearly, with the Magpies knocked out of both Cup competitions this season, they will now concentrate on their bread and butter, hoping to achieve their primary goal of promotion from the league this season.
It’s a net gain for volleyball fundraisers
Players from a Bournemouth IT consultancy retained their winners’ title at an annual charity beach volleyball tournament staged by property finance lender MSP Capital. Team QuoStar saw off the challenge of 21 fellow competitors, a field more than twice as big as last year, beating the hosts 20-14 in the final to be crowned champions for the second summer running.
The event, held on Bournemouth beach, raised £15,000, to be split equally between Dorsetbased hospice charities Julia’s House and Lewis-Manning Hospice Care.
It was part of MSP Capital’s community commitment and ESG strategy, Foundations for Better Futures.
Six-a-side teams of women and men competed in 10-minute ‘pool’ matches on four courts in the sand, with the top scorers going into a knockout stage starting with quarter finals.
Companies and organisations represented included NatWest, AFC Bournemouth, law firms, property developers and consultancies, recruitment specialists, accountants, estate agents, surveyors and internet marketers. QuoStar commercial director Andrew Forder said after his team’s triumph: “We went into this year’s tournament with lots of confidence and we’ve had great fun. The event was organised so well and it provided genuinely entertaining volleyball to watch. Teams have obviously been training hard.”
Among other competitors, NatWest player and portfolio manager Ed Joffe said: “We got off to a shaky start but it was a great experience to be able to play volleyball barefoot on the beach. It was incredible to see all these teams playing and having fun while raising money for fantastic causes.”
The NatWest team was joined by Martin Edwards, chief executive of Julia’s House, who said: “I’ve never played volleyball before but I’ll try anything. The best fundraising
always happens when people want to take part. It was amazing to see so many businesses pitching in and together raising so much money.”
Martin added that the Julia’s House share of the funds raised from the day would equate to around three months’ worth of children’s hospice support from an individual nurse.
Nicki Cluley, corporate partnerships fundraiser for Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, said: “It costs £2.4million to run our charity each year and 80% of that has to be raised from donations. The beach volleyball tournament is an exemplary way to support us and the people in the community who need our services. We are so grateful for this event. It means so much to us.”
Beach volleyball specialist Deep Dish helped organise and co-ordinate the tournament, supporting MSP Capital on the day with a compere, referees and DJ.
Deep Dish was founded by beach volleyball stars Chris Gregory and Jake Sheaf who have both represented Team England.
Jake was at the Bournemouth tournament and presented the gold medals and trophy.
Summarising the success of the tournament, MSP Capital’s Joint Managing Director Paul Miracca said: “We have immense pride at seeing people compete so well and all for such great charities. We thank everyone who took part.”
After congratulating Team QuoStar on their tournament win, MSP Capital player and senior finance analyst Tom Callaghan said: “This was one of the most fun events I have ever been to and it was a joy and privilege to help raise money for such amazing charities.” MSP Capital’s launched Foundations for Better Futures to encompass the lender’s ESG strategy and commitment to support its ‘people, community, industry and environment’.
Property
Eleven easy tips to declutter your home
Ready for a bit of spring cleaning? Many of us have that spare room/garage/shed we keep meaning to sort out but somehow just keep adding tot the pile of ‘stuff’ that ‘‘ll sort out one day’.
If you’re ready to get stuck in, here’s some great tips from Armishaws Removals to help get you started.
Power of three
Get some boxes and label them ‘Keep’, ‘Throw’, ‘Donate’. Then allocate your treasure/junk accordingly.
Once the room is clear, don’t stop! Do that tip run, drop off boxes at the charity shop and repack and restore everything else somewhere tidy.
DO NOT just put those boxes back in the newly-cleared spaces no matter how tempting.
10, 10, 10
Still struggling to get started? Chose 10 items to throw away, 10 items to donate, 10 items to keep.
The rubbish bag dash
Or try this... Grab five rubbish bags. Your challenge is to fill those bags quickly with stuff you know needs to go.
No pausing, make quick, simple decisions. After five bags take a breather, have a well-
On The Move
earned cuppa, then do the next five bags. Look at you go!
Is it useful or sentimental?
Ask yourself, are you going to display it, use it, repair/upcycle, wear it... If the answer is ‘no’ then it’s probably time to let it go.
Bring in reinforcements
Get a friend to help. They don’t have the emotional attachment and can assist you in making clearer decisions about what you really do or don’t need in your life/home (this decluttering tactic shouldn’t be applied to messy spouses or noisy children).
90/90 Rule
Have you used that item in the last 90 days? Are you going to use it in the next 90 days? If the answer is ‘no’ then it’s time to let it go or store it elsewhere.
One man’s junk... Don’t dump it Offering items on sites like eBay, Freebay or Facebook Marketplace can give them a second lease of life without adding to landfill. You could even make a few pennies to redecorate that old dumping room.
You don’t wear it well
Clothes and shoes can be a major cause of clutter.
Simple test, if you haven’t worn something in the last year, there’s probably a reason. They could have a good life elsewhere with a new owner.
Work room by room
If you have multiple cluttered rooms or areas (or a whole house!), don’t try and tackle them all at once.
Simplify the task by doing one room at a time.
Set easy goals
Decide what the end result should be. If you have a goal to aim for (turning that junk room into studio/dressing room/home office you’ve always dreamed of) it’ll help keep you motivated.
Reduce now, replace later
Some of that ‘stuff/junk’ can probably be replaced with new items.
It’s okay to let broken things go and enjoy the luxury of new and improved when the time comes.
Find more home hacks at www.Armishaws. com/blog.
Old School House is full of character
Originally built as a schoolhouse as part of the Shaftesbury Estate, the Old School House at Chalbury, near Wimborne, has been tastefully remodelled and extended over time to create a unique village house. Full of charm, character and period features, the house provides space and - with two separate staircases - the versatility for divided living. The house is approached via a sweeping driveway, tucked away in a peaceful position close to the church in the centre of the village, and offers far-reaching views across rolling countryside as far as the Isle of Wight. It is for sale through Symonds & Sampson in Wimborne with a Guide of £950,000. (Freehold; EPC E; CT Band F).
For further details contact