The New Stour & Avon Magazine by The Blackmore Vale Limited

Edition 23

FREE EVERY FORTNIGHT

The New Stour & Avon

l R ! W£I1N ,000

l R

Friday, February 25, 2022 Five-p educa age t SPECI ion AL!

A d diamon t pendan p10

BELLY GOOD INDEED!

Family’s sustainable bellyboard business booming: p52

Local, Loyal & Trusted Please call for a FREE valuation of your home Wimborne Off ice 01202 842922 | Ferndown Off ice 01202 890890

www.hearnes.com

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

2 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

What’s inside this week... Arts & Entertainments 42-49 Antiques & Collectibles 18-19 Business 50-55 Education special 37-41 Farming & Environment 28-29 Food & Drink 26-27 Health & Wellbeing 20-25 Home & Gardens 30-36 Letters 8 Local Services 66-67 Motoring 61-63 MPs’ Round-Up 13 Pets 64-65 Property 68-72 Puzzles 14-15 Recruitment 56-60 Sport 53

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.

n Prince of plastic p9; Dressing up day p17; Oliver! at care home p43

Lloyd Armishaw Publisher newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net Tel: 01963 400186

Meet the team Steve Belasco Editor newsdesk@ stourandavon.net

Debi Thorne Advertising sales manager debi.thorne@ blackmorevale.net Tel: 07714 289409

Lorraine Drake Distributor lorraine_drake @icloud.com Tel: 07850 529937

Jane Toomer Senior account manager jane.toomer@ blackmorevale.net Tel: 07714 289411

Faith Eckersall Reporter newsdesk@ stourandavon.net

Rusty Harness Account manager rusty.harness@ stourandavon.net Tel: 07714 289412

Lorraine Gibson Reporter newsdesk@ stourandavon.net

Classified ads Classified adverts classified@blackmorevale.net Tel: 01963 400186 HIGH QUALITY WORK, LOW PRICES

New Roofs Flat Roofs Tile & Slate Roofs Leadwork Chinmey Repointing New UPVC fascias & Gutters External Painting Moss Removal All Roof Repairs

SPECIAL WINTER OFFER

Find & Repair a Leak from £150 Moss Removal from £250 Repointing Chimneys from £275 Valley, Gable & Ridge Repointing from £375

Tel: 01202 927934 Mobile: 07367 112303

info@worksmartroofing.co.uk www.worksmartroofing.co.uk

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 3

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

New role for multi-talented Mike Four million

Te m N N pu E O rS W W le IN ep ! -S S TO tud RE io

by Lorraine Gibson It’s ‘new year, new chairman’ for Colehill Village Hall as Mike Andrews takes on the role with plans to celebrate the spirit of the local community and the Queen’s Jubilee, of course. Mike, formerly of Cutler’s Place and whose three daughters attended school in Wimborne, now lives in Kinson but he certainly gets about! As well as being involved in the village hall - where he plays badminton and bridge and has just acted as the sheriff’s sidekick in its recent charity panto Robin Hood - he’s also Ferndown’s town crier, is associated with Ferndown UCA and is currently raising funds for Lewis-Manning. “I’m doing a 1,000-mile walk in a calendar year,” says Mike, who was also Wimborne’s town crier in the 1980s, 90s and early 2000s. He adds: “I started off on Boxing Day and I’ll finish this December. “So far, I’ve done 210 miles and have nearly 30 sponsors. I’ve already raised £135 but I’m really hoping to end up with £1,000.” The chairman and his fellow village hall supporters are now busy planning community-friendly events, including some to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations, which officially begin on

documents transferred

Thursday, June 2 and continue over the weekend until Sunday, June 5. To sponsor Mike’s worthy walk for charity, visit: lewis-manning.org.uk/donate-online/ mikeandrews

Sale WINTER

ENDS THIS SATURDAY 26TH FEBRUARY

HURRY, LAST CHANCE TO

SAVE 50% OFF UP TO

www.davidphipp.co.uk • Tel: 01202 897474 / 893377 Open Monday - Saturday 9am - 5.30pm • Ringwood Road, Ferndown, Dorset, BH22 9AL

A project by Dorset Council to converge 47 years’ worth of information from the six different planning teams it has incorporated since 2019 has transferred four million documents in a year. Dorset Council’s planning convergence and transformation project has converged the documents from district, borough and county councils which were using six software systems. Each team had 47 years’ worth of information including planning applications, building control applications and tree preservations orders. Once the final phase is completed the council will develop a modern planning system, streamlining processes and making it easier for customers to use.

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

4 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

It’s fun to West Moors man fined over planning breach help at the Y-M-C-A! The YMCA is opening a charity shop in Blandford and needs staff and volunteers to help with their work. YMCA is the world’s largest youth charity creating supportive, inclusive and energising communities where young people can truly belong, contribute and thrive. It operates in 700 different communities across England and Wales impacting upon the lives of more than 570,000 people every year. They believe in supporting young people in mind, body and spirit and it’s little known that they actually house more homeless people than some other well-known charities. They also provide training and education so that young people can really thrive on their path in life. To help do this they operate more than 100 charity retail stores across England and Wales, selling approximately 95% of the goods donated, meaning they are actively supporting the environment as well as local communities. They would love to hear from you. Contact Emma Keene, SW retail area manager on 07923 228904.for information.

Wimborne is talk subject Wimborne Civic Society members and guests are looking forward to hearing Alan R Bennett on March 15, at 8pm speaking about Wimborne Minster - Portrait Of A Town. He was educated at Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School, and has published a revised and expanded edition of his wellliked book about Wimborne and its people. All attending should be fully vaccinated. Cost is £1 for members, £3 for visitors.

An East Dorset resident has been fined more than £1,000 after failing to comply with a planning enforcement notice. Dorset Council said Chi Leung Yau, 63 of West Moors, attended Poole Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, February 9, and

pleaded guilty to breaching Section 179 (1) of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 for not addressing violations on land in the Green Belt next to Henbury Manor Farm, Corfe Mullen. Following the serving of a planning enforcement

notice with which Mr Yau failed to comply, he was served with a prosecution and was fined £1,038 plus a victim surcharge of £104. He was also ordered to pay prosecution costs in the sum of £2,138, the full amount requested.

Help kids have a grand day out

HERE TO HELP: Some of the young team members at Diverse Abilities

by Lorraine Gibson Can you see the world through the eyes of a child? Then perhaps you could you help local youngsters with special needs to have fun short breaks. Diverse Abilities is seeking extra staff to join its Short Breaks Crew due to increased demand in the wake of reduced pandemic restrictions. It’s no secret that a change of scene or a dose of fresh air boosts our sense of wellbeing and this applies even more so to children who rely on others to help them enjoy the feelgood factors we often take for granted. The role involves supporting children with special education needs and their

siblings on Dorset days out. This can include trips to the cinema, Chessington World of Adventures or Lemur Landings, hosting arts and crafts activities, baking, overseeing sensory sessions and helping to improve their confidence and social skills. Roles are available in West Moors, Ferndown, Bournemouth, Poole and Weymouth and DA’s children’s team manager, Clare Rochford, says: “If there’s one thing we can guarantee, it’s that you will definitely have a laugh while supporting those in the community who need it most. “No day is ever the same,” she adds, “and we’re looking for

dynamic people who want to help out and aren’t afraid to get stuck in.” The roles are primarily zerohour contracts during school holidays and weekends to allow you to plan around other commitments such as studies, childcare, or other existing part-times roles. To apply, you must be 16 or older, and there are opportunities to progress into other areas of care. No experience is necessary as training will be given on the job by experienced members of the management team. Car share pick-ups are also available. Visit diverseabilities.org.uk/ careers for further details

Scouts wash Gardening for bookworms Broadstone Scouts are holding their popular £5 carwash on Saturday, March 5. The Scouts will be at the United Reformed Church off Higher Blandford Road from 9am-1pm with all monies going towards their funds.

If you enjoy gardening and can spend a few hours once a month, Colehill Library would like to hear from you. The library needs people to give up a few hours on the first Saturday of each month to help maintain its grounds

as well as the Barbara Gooch Memorial Garden. The group hopes to meet more frequently and set up a rota. For more details, contact Susan Cowsill on susanCCL2020@gmail.com.

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 5

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Steeplejacks’ work not in vane

by Nicci Brown Storm Eunice found a rather easy target at the top of the cupola on the tower of Blandford Parish Church of St Peter & St Paul. The weathervane has been leaning for some time, and was part of the reason why there has been no ringing of the bells since the end of pandemic restrictions and before that the suspension of bellringing during the restoration of the church tower and cupola completed in 2016. The intention had been to deal with the problem once the main scaffolding was

Platinum Award-Winning Care 2022

We have recently been awarded this much sought after accolade for our work with Gold Standards Framework

erected around the church for repairs to the roof and interior plasterwork in a further Heritage Lottery-funded restoration. The high winds brought it down completely and prematurely on Friday morning, and the steeplejacks arrived the following day to make it safe until further repairs could be carried out.

Confirmation that cycleway is proceeding The next phase of Dorset’s controversial new cycleway is to begin next month, Dorset Council has confirmed. The ‘sustainable travel facility’ will see work on Wimborne Road East and West in Ferndown between Canford Bottom and Trickett’s Cross roundabouts. It will form part of the 27km green travel route linking Wimborne and Ferndown with Poole town centre, which includes the new cycle and walking paths and bus improvement work currently under way along Leigh Road, Wimborne Road West and Ringwood Road. More information can be found at dorsetcouncil.gov. uk/transforming-travel/ wimborne-road-ferndownsustainable-travel-scheme.

“The staff here are quite simply wonderful, they can’t do enough for you. The food is excellent with plenty of variety and my quality of life has improved since moving here. I only wish I made the decision sooner.” Current resident

Exceptional Care in Stunning Surroundings

Live life better... every day at SPETISBURY MANOR

Why not arrange a visit to see for yourself

01258 857378 | www.spetisburymanor.co.uk | info@spetisburymanor.co.uk

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

6 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Jolly good activities at town museum The Museum of East Dorset is working with dementia-friendly organisation In Jolly Good Company to offer Jolly Days At The Museum. Starting on April 7, from 2pm-4pm, the museum plans to offer twice-monthly dementia-friendly activity afternoons at its premises in the heart of Wimborne. The days are planned for the first and third Thursday afternoons of each month. The project launch, made possible by a community grant from Friends of Canford School and Dorset Councils’ communities and culture project fund, has the full support of Wimborne Dementia Friendly Community. They believe it will help to improve the health and wellbeing of local communities and vulnerable people. In Jolly Good Company was set up by Sarah Rampton to help alleviate the physical and mental issues caused by loneliness and isolation. The company works with all ages to bring friendship, joy and a sense of community to older people living in Dorset. It currently runs ‘Step Outside’, an allotment gardening group at Kingston Lacy which reopens in March. Jolly Days At The Museum will offer an alternative and complementary activity

conveniently in the centre of town. They will help participants to stay physically and mentally active, thus promoting better health. Sessions will take place in an accessible, light, well ventilated venue and will take advantage of the museum’s beautiful heritageplanted walled garden. Specially themed ‘rummage boxes’ will be created to enhance the quality of the experiences being offered to people with or without dementia, as well as their families and carers. Chezzie Hollow, director of the Museum of East Dorset, said: “Although we have

some funding, we also ask for voluntary donations from our guests in order to help keep this new group going for a long time to come.” For more details, visit injollygood company.com and to book, call: 07884 333117 or email injollygoodcompany@ gmail.com.

Bespoke kitchens, created to be the centre of your home

CALL

01258 480621

FOR A FREE DESIGN CONSULTATION OF WESSEX

FITTED

KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

Visit our showroom at 10 Glenmore Business Park Blandford DT11 7FP

www.kingshotts.net

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 7

COOKING PASSION SINCE 1877

BEST ELECTRICAL RETAILER 2020

We are Dorset’s Award Winning NEFF Cooking & Appliance Specialists Independent and family run Wimborne business, Dacombes of Wimborne, established in 1920, alongside MK Interiors, locally manufactured kitchen specialists, can offer the whole kitchen package under one roof. Design, supply and installation of kitchens plus appliances, project managed from start to finish. Come and see our showroom located in Wimborne to see what we can offer to make your house feel complete. No job is too big or too small.

61-63 LEIGH ROAD · WIMBORNE · DORSET · BH21 1AE

...Let’s Make

GREAT DEALS

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

8 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Letters

Church to open up as community hub

Further to you publishing a letter regarding Wimborne URC from Wimborne Railway Society, I would like to give you and your readers an insight on what is happening at our church. The layout of the building has become very dated, wheelchair users for example cannot get from the church to the hall and access generally is a problem. Many areas of the building are very tired and no longer fit for purpose, and some new life needs bringing into the church. We have had to suspend services for many reasons, with Covid playing a major part. This has allowed us to re-evaluate the use of the building which was being underutilised. We plan to reformat the

interior in a sympathetic way, but opening it up for use as a community hub, making it a multiuser venue. Church worship will be able to take place, alongside more secular activities such as clubs, groups, concerts, music teaching/exams, classes, events, meetings. Also, we aim to have a more accessible and modern coffee lounge and new food and drink preparation areas. This site has been a place of Christian Worship since 1672 and we intend for it to continue for many years to come. This will be made possible by creating a safe and welcoming environment of which all members of the public can enjoy and be a part. Keith Dorling Church Secretary

OFF THE WALL...

Cartoon by Lyndon Wall justsocaricatures.co.uk

Never mind the cyclists, what about pedestrians? As a very recent victim of the terrible state of Ferndown’s pavements, having suffered broken radius, ulner and scaphoid bones through a fall on uneven slabs in a very busy area of the town centre, I am left wondering how the local and/or county councils have found vast sums of money to spend on the construction of new cycle paths but are unable to find the money

to properly make safe and repair existing pavements and much pot-holed roads. I hope the few cyclist who will use the wonderfully smooth surface of their dedicated lanes appreciate the peril the rest of us are put in on a daily basis. It seems priorities have gone all to pot to me! Christine Dacombe Ferndown

Please could you make it clear what the CA is all about When I read the advert in your magazine about the Countryside Alliance point to point day described as a day of family fun I asked my Dad if we could please go.

He said the Countryside Alliance promotes a certain type of rural life which supports fox hunting and breeding pheasants from chicks to adults and then letting them go for sport!

I felt very upset that I wanted to go and would have gone if I had not been told this. Please make it clearer in your adverts what the Countryside Alliance is really about. Jason Richmond, age 11

Your email comments are very welcome, however we cannot publish them anonymously and we reserve the right to edit them as deemed necessary

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 9

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Beach clean warrior far from washed up

by Lorraine Gibson Things took an ironic twist when local beach-cleaning hero Oly Rush, right, found an old detergent bottle washed up on the shore that he thinks could be the oldest plastic packaging ever found. He was carrying out one of his regular Dorset beach sweeps when he happened upon the Doby bottle, thought to date from the mid-1950s, and with writing clear enough that its ‘By Royal Appointment’ is still legible. The moulded container, of which there is an example in the Museum of Design in Plastics, was found among seaweed at Chapman’s Poole, near Swanage. Oly, from nearby Upton, knew he’d found a vintage waste item, saying: ‘she’s an old girl.’ Doby was produced by Thawpit Ltd, Manchester, and the tops of its washing up bottles had to be pierced to allow the liquid to be squirted out. The aged bottle brags that it’s the ‘big new economy size’ of ‘1½ pints’.

Oly, who last year swam around the Isle of Wight in a world record time to raise money for environmental charities, said: “This just goes to show how long plastics last. “They are awful for the environment and while I’ve pulled tons of the stuff from local beaches, this is the oldest thing I’ve ever found. “Whether it has been in the water all the time or has come out of a cliff I’m not sure, but either way it wasn’t doing any good. “If we can all do a little bit to cut down on plastic waste then slowly the environment will improve and it’ll be better for us all and for wildlife. “Last year I raised £12,000 for three charities. To raise more awareness and money I am swimming around Grand Cayman in May. It is 65 miles and will take me 30 hours, but I hope to raise as much as possible for Plastic Free Cayman.” Details of Oly’s next big swim can be found at ProjectPlanet.earth.

Individual Kitchens, Affordable Prices WIMBORNE’S KITCHEN SPECIALISTS Kitchens project managed from design to installation CONTACT US: SHOWROOM: 01202 022049 MOBILE: 07725 184051 SEANMKINTERIORS@YAHOO.CO.UK 61-63 LEIGH ROAD, WIMBORNE, DORSET BH21 1AE SHOWROOM INSIDE DACOMBES OF WIMBORNE

WWW.MK-INTERIORS.CO.UK

No Obligation Estimates

Design and Planning

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

10 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Parish council’s county honour

Colehill Parish Council has been awarded a Foundation Level Award under the Local Council Award Scheme, one of only four councils in Dorset to achieve an award. It recognises that the council achieves good practice in governance, community engagement and council improvement. It evidences that the council goes above and beyond its legal obligations, leading its community and continuously seeking opportunities to improve and develop. The report highlights areas of strength including engagement with the local community, advertising activities and ease of contact for residents. Council chairmanEmma Urquhart said: “This award is a fantastic testament to our parish clerk and the hard work of our councillors, who are all unpaid volunteers, and give so much time and effort.”

Return of popular festival

by Faith Eckersall After a two-year break, the Highcliffe Food and Arts Festival is back, with more than 120 boutique traders booked in and appearances by celebrity chefs JeanChristophe Novelli and Lesley Waters. The popular event will take place on Saturday and Sunday June 11 and 12 at the Lymington Road Recreation Ground. The cookery theatre will feature former Lesley Waters on the Saturday, with JeanChristophe Novelli on the Sunday. Leading local chefs will also take part throughout the weekend, including Alex Aitken and the team from Christchurch Harbour Hotel and the Jetty restaurant, as well as Christchurch-born James Golding, chef director of The Pig Group of hotels. Along with the stands there will be two music stages and plenty of fun for little ones, including craft workshops, a treasure hunt and the return of the Grow Your Own tent featuring Highcliffe in Bloom.

Organisers, Highcliffe Residents Association said the event would be emphasising support for ‘Plastic free Highcliffe’, with all stall holders being asked to bring along compostable containers and cutlery. Chairman of Highcliffe Residents Association, Ian Hartnell, said “This event is pivotal in bringing not only a muchneeded boost to businesses in Highcliffe but also to raise the profile of our village as a vibrant and welcoming community.” Printed programmes will be available in late April. For updates see: highcliffefoodandartsfestival.co.uk

New Stour & Avon Competition Win this stunning 9ct white gold 0.25ct diamond heart shaped pendant & chain

worth £1000!

with Horrocks & Webb Jewellers of Blandford Forum

For a chance to win this sparkling prize simply answer the question below...

NOT ACTUAL SIZE

Q: The unit of measurement normally used for precious stones is:

A) Carafe B) Carat C) Carrot Enter via our website

blackmorevale.net/comp-heart Full terms & conditions available on our website

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 11

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Cat dies in house blaze Fire crews from Ferndown and Redhill Park were mobilised to a house fire in Petwyn Close, Ferndown. Once they arrived on scene, firefighters found the fire had spread from the ground floor to the first floor of a terraced house. They requested support and at the height of the incident, 20 firefighters from Ferndown, Redhill Park, Poole and Ringwood, were on scene. Crews used four sets of breathing apparatus, two hose reel jets as well as

other firefighting equipment to bring the fire under control. Unfortunately, the entire ground floor and some of the first floor were badly damaged by fire, heat and smoke. All residents escaped the property unharmed, but sadly a pet cat died. Station manager Dan Perrett, who attended the incident said: “We believe the cause of this fire was a tumble dryer in the kitchen. Due to the lack of internal doors the smoke, fire and heat

was able to travel quickly, and the property suffered serious damage. We believe the occupiers noticed the fire before it was detected by the smoke alarm, escaped from the property and called 999. This action undoubtedly saved their lives. I would

urge everyone to check they have working smoke alarms at home; these should be tested weekly.” More information on smoke alarms, escape plans and electrical appliance safety can be found at dwfire.org. uk/safety/safety-at-home/

Get a FREE accessories pack with your bathroom WORTH £167

bathroom showroom t: 01202 532 529 w: mphmerchant.co.uk

Finding the perfect bathroom that reflects your needs & space can be a long process, but using our free advice and design service is a great way to narrow down the search. We will help you find a combination of sanitaryware, furniture, tiles, paint and accessories to transform your bathroom into a tranquil paradise and create designs so your visualisation can become reality that much sooner.

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

12 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Museum to make most of memories Local people are invited to contribute to the new exhibition at the Museum of East Dorset, which starts in April 2022. ‘East Dorset Celebrates: 70 years of fun and festivities’ will examine how people in Wimborne, and other towns and villages in East Dorset, celebrated important local and national events during the last 70 years. The celebrations will include the Queen’s coronation and jubilees, local carnivals held at Wimborne and Verwood, and ‘The Magpies’ (Wimborne Town FC) winning the FA Vase in 1992. The museum would like to

hear from anybody willing to share stories or memories of any of these celebrations. For example, do you remember attending a street party for the Coronation, taking part in a carnival, or witnessing the FA Vase victory parade? Do you have any photographs or memorabilia relating to any of these local events? The deadline for the museum’s appeal is Monday, March 7. Contact Mark Neathey, Curator, on 01202 882533 or email: collections@ museumofeastdorset.co.uk Advertising feature

Bringing old-fashioned values to fostering “Taking steps towards a brighter future...”

INFORMATION SESSIONS 10.30 AM AND 2.00PM Come along and have a chat. Enjoy a cup of tea and cake and enter into our prize draw on the day to WIN A HOTEL CHOCOLAT HAMPER. Book a ticket online or by phone. We look forward seeing you.

01202 573408 www.footprintsfostercare.co.uk

Footprints Foster Care is an Independent Fostering Agency formed in 2012 by Stephanie Omosevwerha and Vanda Leigh - two experienced social workers who wanted to bring back some good old-fashioned social work values. Stephanie and Vanda had worked with foster carers for many years and had also both got hands on experience of working with children in residential care so really knew what is it like to look after children in care. What makes Footprints Foster Care different? As well as all the usual benefits, we are proud to offer a support service that is personal to you. You will be supported by well qualified, experienced social workers who know you and your family circumstances well. This means you will never have to explain your situation over the phone to a ‘stranger’. It also means we can better match a child to fit in with your family lifestyle

and experience. We will never put pressure on you to look after a child you feel unable to manage. We know fostering can be hard and we feel that it is vital to get the support right by listening to you and making changes from your feedback to ensure our service is providing you with what you want. We recognise foster carers develop skills through knowledge and experience and therefore, we provide opportunities for foster carers to take on additional tasks such as mentoring other carers, being involved with training and organising social events.

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 13

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

CPRE welcomes housing rules stance By Faith Eckersall Rural life campaigners Dorset CPRE have welcomed Dorset Council’s criticism of the rules which govern new housing requirements. Council leader Spencer Flower had stated: “The current National Planning Framework is not providing councils with the means to promote sustainable development through their Local Plans but is instead about chasing government housing targets.” Dorset CPRE – which has vigorously criticised Dorset’s 39,000 housing target – said Cllr Flower’s remarks ‘show a willingness to develop a Local Plan more suited to Dorset and its residents.’ Previously, Dorset CPRE

GREEN AND PLEASANT: A typical Dorset hamlet

stated that the Dorset Local Plan was being developed ‘too quickly and without an adequate evidence base’. Dorset CPRE spokesman, Peter Bowyer, said: “We now hope there will be positive dialogues with community organisations and residents in Dorset to arrive at a

housing figure of closer to 22,000 up to 2038, adequate provision of affordable/social housing, and compatibility of the Dorset Local Plan with actions to address the Climate and Ecological Emergencies.” He said the group looked forward to the outcome of

Picture: STEVEBELASCO.NET

communications between the Secretary of State and Dorset Council. He also welcomed the opportunity for an extension of the Local Plan period, as well as the potential development of a new approach to Local Plans ‘that reflects the needs of the residents of Dorset’.

MPs’ round-up

NHS needs more private sector resources The end of Covid-19 restrictions is the right decision and most welcome. We must all learn to live with this coronavirus as we have had to with influenza. It is good that individual freedom and responsibility will replace State coercion and control. Sadly, the legacy from the Pandemic will last for much longer. Many of the consequences of the prolonged lockdowns on physical and mental wellbeing and our social and economic lives are yet to be realised. I have called on the Government to take action to help reduce the current excessive levels of fear and anxiety engendered by the Pandemic. The confidence of both young and old in normal life needs to be rebuilt. This problem is acute among children who have not returned to school and employees who have not returned to their workplace.

Christchurch & East Dorset CHRIS CHOPE The need for return to the workplace was highlighted in answer to one of my Parliamentary questions. The Health Minister said that employees in the Department of Health and Social Care are only being expected to return to the office for at least four days a month! A national newspaper rightly ridiculed the absurdity of the Minister’s response.

n I was able to expand upon the need for NHS reform in a speech in the House of Commons on World Cancer Day, February 4. In introducing my National Health Service Co-Funding and Co-Payment Bill I pointed out that there were 50,000 fewer cancer diagnoses across the United Kingdom during the Pandemic. In that period NHS cancer treatments fell by some 6%. Even before the Pandemic the United Kingdom in 2019 was recording a much higher rate of fatalities from cancer than in most of the 38 Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries. Our rate was 20% higher than in Australia and the United States. The UK is also lagging in access to diagnostics. Whereas the average across the OECD is 45 CT, MRI

and PET scanners per million population, we only have 16 per million. These facts show that there is no room for complacency. I am, therefore, arguing that more private sector resources are needed and that there is no reason why co-funding and co-payment within our National Health Service should not be extended. Patients already often need to pay towards the cost of prescriptions, dental care, eye care and social care. They are not allowed, however, to pay towards the NHS in other sectors. Is it reasonable any longer to prevent people contributing towards their own NHS costs unless they fall into the categories above? My hope is that there will now be informed public debate about encouraging more contributions towards health care in this country from private individuals.

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

14 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Puzzles Arrow words Badging

Crossword Lay a covering over

Irish, eg

Onlooker

Spades and hoes, eg (6,5)

Faculties

Corn

Conceal

23 A Pentium, eg (inits)

Say adieu

25 Brace; get ready

Peter and Paul, eg (abbr)

Absolute low

Disney deer

Sketched

Male swan

AmericanEnglish ‘Z’

Strand of rope

Blend into one

Wordsearch A I B A A F I S S A L G T T D

Thirty-day month (abbr)

Periphery

E T D N N I E S D O O L F M T

Ceases

Den

Ragout

Spring resorts

Elongated fish

At once (inits)

Ocean

A N R A A I R M U R A N O A I

O T I I I L T D U O N R M I E

BRIDGES CANALS DA MESSINA DOGE FESTIVAL FLOODS GIORGIONE GLASS

D O D N E T A I S G N E M N A

In Venice

O R G S S M S V T V S V O S G

G E E R L D B S I S I I S O N

E T S T N E T Y I T G T A L T

O T I A S M S N O R S A A F A

E O L C A I A E O N I E O L A

T S I R A D T I N R O G F O Y

ISLANDS ITALY LAGOON MURANO ST MARKS TINTORETTO TITIAN VERONESE

I G K S A N G A L O S O L S A

I S T T S F A T R A R L G F E

G A E N O I S L S T S E I A R

A S U N T N L V S L R N V S L

1 4 10 11 12 13 14 18 20 23 24 25 26

Across Sudden downwards glide (5) Opposite of alkaline (6) Required by etiquette (2,7) Klutz (3) Classical language (5) Kind of (2,1,3) Inept person (11) Absorb food (6) Nephew’s sister (5) Place of higher education (3) Partitions (9) Long-haired breed of cat (6) Extremely energetic (5)

2 3 5 6 7 8 9 15 16 17 19 21 22

Down Least good (5) Entirely natural (7) Roughly (5) Model landscape scene (7) Bistro (4) Short, pastoral poem (5) Relating to the making of laws (11) Apprehending; catching (7) Probity (7) Economical with words (5) Tribal leader (5) Run away (5) Hawaiian skirt (4)

Sudoku

7 4 3 5 9 2 5 7 5

3 9

6 4

5 1

8 6

6 1 2 2 3 7 9 6 Brain chain 29

RESULT

+47

-14

-50%

-12

+13

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 15

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Puzzles (for cleverclogs) Jumbo 3D Sudoku

Cryptic crossword 1

4 2 1 6 5

6 4 9 4

8 6

5 9 3 2

12+

2 2

7 8

6 8

6 1

6 6 3

8 7

9 3

18×

4 9

5 6 7

8 1

4÷

13+

9×

17+

4÷

RESULT

÷2

×9/13

+102

+5%

21 20

23 23

Down Across Across Down 1 Recall fat English around English husband 2 Take advantage of featof (7) feat (7) 2 Take advantage 1 Recall excess fat excess around husband showing interest (6) 3 High room belonging to the Greeks? (5) 3 High room belonging to the Greeks? (5) showing interest (6) 5 At home, cool time for young child (6) 4 Force doors so possibly holding front of 4 precious Force doors so possibly 5 At home, cool time for young child (6) 8 Detect pimple (4) kitchen accessory (4,9) holding front of 9 Oscar, 5 Deceptive about Italian eatery preciousappearances kitchen accessory (4,9) in 8 Detect pimple (4) serving man wearing conspicuous jewellery, is courteous (8) pictures (13) 5 Deceptive appearances about Italian eat 9 Oscar, serving man wearing conspicuous 6 Flog map possibly as aid for drivers (3,4) 10 Right-wing clubs taking wrong step for pictures (13) jewellery, is courteous (8) 7 Disadvantage when fishing, say, for musical ideas (8) Needs taking first off for colonists (4) for 6 composition Flog map(5)possibly as aid for drivers (3,4 10 Right-wing11clubs wrong step + 19 13 Underground worker on a lake gets ore (7) A poet excited about minute in time (1,5) 7 Disadvantage when fishing, say, for mus ideas (8) 12 15 Explosion of crime in two areas in Western 14 Annul old record penned by engineers on a composition (5) 11 Needs first off country (7) linefor (6) colonists (4) 17 Use unprofitably part of a garment, 16 Birdabout that’s pale following (4)(1,5) 13 Underground worker on a we’re lake gets ore ( 12 A poet excited minute in sun time told (5) Tips shown by Frenchman among former 15 Explosion of crime in two areas in Weste 14 Annul old 18 record penned by engineers on a 19 Moral sense in Elizabeth I contemplated (5) elders say (8) country (7) line (6) 20 Energy very much about urge to get coffee (8) Acclaim hospital before trouble (4) 17 Use unprofitably part of a garment, we’re 16 Bird that’s21pale following sun (4) 22 Confined space by a river storage place? (6) told (5) 18 Tips shown by Frenchman among former 23 Friendly in this way concerning people on 19 Moral sense in Elizabeth I contemplated elders say (8)reflection (6) 20 Energy very much about urge to get coffee (8) 21 Acclaim hospital before trouble (4) 22 Confined space by a river storage place? (6) 23 Friendly in this way concerning people on reflection (6)

Brain chain (hard) ×2/5

19+

15+

17+

14+

18+

3÷

130

1512×

33+

45×

18×

3 2 5 7 1

7 5

8 2

5 1

22+

16+

Killer Sudoku Pro 24+

Killer Sudoku Pro: Place 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and bold-lined 3×3 box. No digit may be repeated in any dashed-line cage, and each dashed-line cage must result in the given value when the stated operation is applied between all of the digits in that cage. For subtraction and division operations, start with the highest number in the cage and then subtract or divide by the other numbers in that cage.

For the solutions turn to page 68

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

16 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Platinum Jubilee tree planted in village Sturminster Marshall Parish Council planted an Oak tree on Sunday, February 6, to commemorate the day the Queen ascended to the throne. Oak trees have been planted in the past in the village to commemorate

historic milestones. The tree is situated on Charborough Green, part of the housing development which was started in the 1980s. This was chosen as this part of the village has no historical references. The other commemorative trees

and items of interest are in the older part of the village within the conservation area. The tree was planted by two residents, pictured right, who were born and brought up in the village, Doreen Shepherd who is fourth generation born into the village and Dave Miller who is second generation.

Teacher’s 24-hour football challenge for MND charity Funding for interpreters boosts support for deaf The advice team at Diverse Abilities has been appointed 12 months’ funding to help provide more support for people who are deaf or speech impaired and rely on communication support. The cost of British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters attending appointments can now be paid by the advice team on behalf of the person seeking advice, as well as covering the cost of the appointment itself. These appointments cover benefit applications, appeals, and lasting power of attorney applications, all important to helping those with disabilities secure the support they need to live their day to day lives. Elaine Ewing, advice team manager, said: “This is a fantastic start to 2022, it really is great to know that we can further support deaf children and adults, and their

families, all while being able to cover the operating costs.” One recent client who has benefitted from the service said: “After several failed applications, Diverse Abilities helped me to complete the DLA application for my eldest daughter and it was successful. My other daughter also had a DLA application, Diverse Abilities assisted with this, and it was successful on the first application. I could not have done it without their help.” Visit diverseabilities.org. uk/advice or call 0300 330 5514.

Teacher Matt Smith, whose brother was recently diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease, has started a rather unusual a fundraising campaign. Matt

who teaches at Dumpton School, will attempt

to dribble a football for 24 hours (or 100 miles) at the school in Wimborne on Saturday and Sunday, March 5 and 6. Monies raised will be split between the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association and to support his brother’s care. Matt’s brother Paul is a huge football fan and as a child played for Grange Athletic FC, represented Dorset and signed associate schoolboy

forms for AFC Bournemouth until aged 16. So Matt felt the idea of a 24-hour dribble was a fitting way to help raise awareness and money for the IMNDA. Some pupils from the Prep School will be coming along to support Matt’s challenge on the day as well as friends and family. Matt would be incredibly grateful for any donations and further details may be found on his Go Fund Me page where you will also be able to read a little more about Matt’s brother Paul, and his tremendous determination to raise awareness of this lifechanging disease. For more information visit: gofund.me/cedd3e06.

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 17

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

‘Expressive dress’ for mental health Pupils and staff from Merley First School in Wimborne ‘dressed to express’ as part of Children’s Mental Health Week earlier this month. The theme of the 2022 national awareness campaign was Growing Together and Merley pupils enjoyed a special assembly and activities throughout the week built around exploring their emotional wellbeing,

confidence growing and appreciation for those who support them. Headteacher Katharine Anstey explained: “Our school vision is ‘growing together to build our future’ so this year’s theme fitted perfectly. “We have been encouraging children - and adults - to consider how they have grown, and how they can

help others to grow. “We also decided to hold a ‘dress to express’ day and invited everyone to come in clothes that made them happy. “There was a great deal of creativity shown through a huge range of outfits, from superhero costumes and sportswear, to fairies and even pyjamas and fluffy slippers!

“The week has produced a great deal of awareness and conversation, as well as fun.” Merley First School is part of Wimborne Academy Trust. CEO Liz West said: “It’s lovely to see the children so aware of the importance of good mental health - and also so many wonderful, brightly-coloured outfits to cheer us up during a wintry February.”

Twinning group’s celebrations galore This is a big year for Fordingbridge Twinning. In 2022 the association will celebrate the 40th anniversary of being twinned with Vimoutiers, and celebrations will take place in France from Friday to Sunday, July 1-3. As well as signing an updated Charter of Twinning and Friendship, the programme will include visits to local schools who have been looking at reducing food waste, a guided nature walk, a visit to the Chateau de Falaise and a spectacular equestrian show at a local stud. The celebrations will also include the 50th anniversary

of Vimoutiers being twinned with its German twin Sontra, and the 25th anniversary of its twinning with its Belgian twin, Chatelet. It promises to be a big party! Fordingbridge Twinning members will be hosted by the town of Vimoutiers and all entertainment and meals

over the weekend will be provided. Accommodation is offered by local families, camping or in gites. Transport to Vimoutiers can be arranged (just an hour’s drive from Caen), where the ferry arrives. Fordingbridge Twining Association would like to know soon if you

would like to be there. Summary of Events 2022: March 12: Murder Mystery Evening, ‘Pasta, Passion and Pistols’, St Mary’s Church Hall, 7.30pm. May 5: AGM with cheese and wine, Avonway, 7.30pm. July 1-3: 40th Anniversary celebrations in Vimoutiers, enjoy an excellent long weekend! August 20221: Members Tea Party,Victoria Rooms, 3pm. October 29: Musical Soiree with ‘Blue Tides’ including supper – Town Hall 7.30pm. For details contact Derek or Alison Ayling on 01425 650770 or Hippotrain@ BTInternet.com.

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

18 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Antiques & Collectibles

Meet lovely Landies looking for love

5th & 6th November March 3rd

28th7th October April & 8th

5th & March 6th November 9th

Specialist Free Valuation Days Classic Car Auction Thursday 3rd March 12 noon Haynes Motor Monday 12thatPictures, Maps, Books Museum & Postcards Viewing 2nd 10am-5pm Tuesday 13thWednesday Silver, Jewellery, Watches & Clocks

Free Days Wednesday 14th Valuation Model Cars, Trains, Dolls & Toys

Thursday 15th Medals, Militaria, Coins Stamps Model Cars, Trains, Dolls & Toys 28th&February Chines & Japanese Ceramics 1stArt March Friday 16th Asian Ceramics&&Works Works of Silver,Motorcycle Jewellery &Auction Watches 28th 2nd March Classic October Oil Paintings, Watercolours & Prints 3rd March Classic Auction 11th November Enamel Signs,Car Petroliana & Automobilia 4th March Further entries now being accepted

Classic Motorcycle Auction 9th March

The Long Street Salerooms Sherborne DT9 3BS Further entries now being accepted r XXX DIBSUFSIPVTF BVDUJPO DPN The Long Street Salerooms Sherborne DT9 3BS 01935 812277 www.charterhouse-auction.com

Two classic Land Rovers, which have spent all their life in the West Country, could leave the area for the first time when they go under the Charterhouse auction hammer in their classic car auction at Haynes this Thursday, March 3. Richard Bromell of Charterhouse said: “Land Rover has such a loyal following whether old or new. “With an international club scene, a vast number of parts suppliers and off-road events they will always be popular, not forgetting they are still in use as daily transport for many and are often seen on the school runs.” The two Land Rovers come from different areas and had different uses when new. First up is a 1970 Series IIA Land Rover. Originally used as a recovery truck for Windsor Road Garage in Bristol, it has survived with wonderful patina.

However, underneath the old paint lies a new galvanised chassis and other mechanical work has been carried out. Now ideal for use as a garage shop truck or one to take to shows, this Land Rover is estimated at £8,000-£10,000. This is followed by a 1982 Land Rover Series III County which has spent its life so far on Exmoor. It was bought by the family in 1985 as a working Land Rover. Painted in Russet brown, this Somerset Landy also had a galvanised chassis fitted some 15 years ago and was stored in a barn in 2014 until recently it came out from its hibernation. With a new battery, fuel, points, coil and other consumables, this Landy fired straight back into life. Now ready to take to the road, or off-road once again, this County is estimated at £6,000-£8,000. The two Land Rovers are part of the classic and

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 19

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Antiques & Collectibles

vintage car auction being held at the prestigious Haynes International Motor Museum at Sparkford, Somerset. There is a great selection of classic cars from Citroen 2CVs through to Aston Martin. Viewing at Haynes is on Wednesday, March 2, 10am5pm with the auction on Thursday starting at noon. Catalogues are available from Charterhouse or you can see all the cars at charterhouse-auction.com where live internet bidding is also available. Charterhouse are now accepting further entries for their busy spring programme of auctions including classic and vintage motorcycles, also at Haynes, on March 9, coins, medals and stamps on March 10 and clocks and collectors’ items on March 11. Charterhouse specialist Richard Bromell and the

team can be contacted for advice and valuations at The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne 01935 812277 info@charterhouse-auction. com or via charterhouseauction.com.

Records bought

45s/LPs/78s Phone Ken 01202 822044 Verwood

GOOD CONDITION VINYL RECORDS WANTED Larger collections preferred No classical please, cash paid 07831 266478

POSTCARDS WANTED ALL TYPES PRE – 1950 BEST PRICES PAID CALL 01202 743860 OR 07922 6 089270

Free valuations every Friday, Wimborne office

From the Basil Lewis (19272019) collection of stamps Hong Kong Airmails 1931-59.

SOLD FOR £5,000 • Entries invited for

our forthcoming Specialist sales • Catalogues available online • Full calendar of Specialist sales A mid Victorian ormolu mounted burr walnut, tulipwood & ebonised kidney shaped desk

SOLD FOR £17,700 8 West Borough, Wimborne Minster BH21 1NF 01202 842 900 www.semleyauctioneers.com Offices in Dorset, Wiltshire and London

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

20 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Health & Wellbeing It’s all about the eyes! Well it certainly has been for the last two years while we’ve been wearing face masks. With our smiles hidden, our eyes have become a crucial communicator. Since the beauty industry re-opened after Covid, eye and lash treatments have fast been taking over other treatments in salons up and down the country. Even with restrictions lifting on mask wearing and lipstick coming back out of the make-up bag, it looks like the focus on eye treatment is here to stay. Low maintenance lash lifts are now the most popular lash treatment with 52% of clients opting for a lash lift over higher maintenance lash extensions. A lash lift is combined with a lash tint to make your natural lashes look longer and more defined. The results can last up to eight

Here’s looking at you

weeks. It’s an ideal treatment for day-to-day wear, gym goers, holidays and busy mums. Who wouldn’t want the ease of looking like

Come and meet our new apprentice Maddie soon to qualify. If you would like to know more about the staff at mirror mirror please visit www.mirrormirrorhairdesign.co.uk We are looking for a PART TIME SELF-EMPLOYED STYLIST with min 3 years experience. Thursday, Saturdays possible hours on other days. Please apply with CV to hairbytracy84@gmail.com or phone for more information.

Call us on 01202 889464 or drop in to... Unit 2, Pamphill Dairy Farm shop, Wimborne BH21 4ED www.mirrormirrorhairdesign.co.uk Tuesday – Friday, 9am - 5pm, Saturday 8am - 4pm Sunday closed. FREE parking

they’ve applied make up but without the daily effort? And no more panda eyes of smudged mascara! Here at Relax and Remedy, my most popular eye package is combined with a brow wax and tint to give those brows some definition and shape, really helping to open up your beautiful eyes. With the launch of my new Eye Treatment from Nimue, which is proven to reduce puffiness, dark circles and smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, you can get an ultimate eye pampering experience. The Eye Treatment is great for revitalising and refreshing the eyes for anyone. Do you sometimes find that your eyes feel strained and tired from looking at

Jemma Sandell is an Advanced Massage & Beauty Therapist and owner of Relax & Remedy, Ferndown. Visit: relaxandremedy.co.uk. £5 off your first visit when you quote The New Stour and Avon Magazine a computer screen all day? Maybe the kids are keeping you awake or do you just need to unpack those undereye bags? The treatment begins by removing make-up and cleansing, then the wrinkle plumping collagen eye masks are applied. This is followed by a wonderfully cooling alginate mask which allows the prescribed serum to penetrate deeper into the epidermis for fast results. The collagen eye masks can also be applied warm for faster action or cool to soothe and calm – just in time to combat the sore eyes of hay fever season. Combine the Eye Treatment with a lash lift for the ultimate eye make-over and you’ll definitely find your looks are looking up! “The beauty of a woman must be seen from in her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart, the place where love resides” Audrey Hepburn

Reminder on screening Women aged between 25 and 64 in East Dorset are being encouraged to respond to cervical screening invitation letters and to book an appointment at their GP practice if they missed their last one. Public Health Dorset says

two women die every day in England from cervical cancer despite it being one of the most preventable forms of the disease which screening can stop before it starts. For more information, visit nhs.uk/cervicalscreening

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 21

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Health & Wellbeing

Know when you’re ready for change

By Susie Carver, consulting hypnotherapist with Sea Change Hypnotherapy in Wimborne seachangehypno.com How do you know if you’re ready to commit to making a change through therapy? It can be a big decision to make. The thought of opening up to a complete stranger about the things that are troubling you may be daunting. You will be investing not just your money but your trust in this person. I have noticed that there are three qualities that my most successful clients have in common. Firstly, they know that something has to change. The old coping strategies that they employed to get them through are no longer working, and they are at rock bottom. They have nothing left to lose.

Secondly, they know that the thing that needs to change is them. They are ready to take personal responsibility for improving their life, because they know that nobody else is going to do it for them. They accept that they can no longer blame others for the way they are feeling, or expect the people around them to change. And thirdly, they know that

the change has to come now. Putting it off any longer is simply not an option. Some people know they need to change, but are not quite ready to make that commitment to themselves. Lasting and effective change can only happen when all three of these conditions are met. It is my job to ensure that everyone who walks through my door is as ready for change as they possibly can be. If they aren’t one hundred per cent committed there’s a good chance they will be wasting their time and their money. For instance, somebody whose partner has told them they should stop smoking, is unlikely to change unless they really want it for themself, too. I will only work with people who I know are ready. Sometimes it is possible for

me to help someone decide if they are ready to make a change. I do this through questioning designed to make the person vividly imagine what their future life will be like, both with and without this change taking place. You can try this exercise for yourself: What is it that needs to change in my life? What is holding me back? If I don’t make this change, what will happen? How will the people I love be affected if I don’t change? How amazing will my life be when I have changed? What will I be able to do that I can’t now? How will I feel and look? What is the next step I need to take, if anything? The decision to change is yours to make entirely, but only when you are ready.

Horton Road Ashley Heath, BH24 2EE

Food, Fun and Friendship at St Ives House care home

safely welcoming new residents with our welcome promise, providing comfort, reassurance and a safe place to enjoy life.

01425 481220 care-south.co.uk

Care South is a leading provider of residential, dementia and nursing care homes across the south of England and a not-for-profit charity. Registered Charity No. 1014697

TOP

21 20

To find out more, call St Ives House on 01425 481220 or visit www.care-south.co.uk

St Ives House residential and dementia care –

D AR AW

St Ives House care home, nestled on the edge of the New Forest near Ringwood, offers quality residential care tailored to the needs of each individual resident. The Care South care home is warmly welcoming new residents and safely welcoming families and friends visiting their loved ones to share in the Food, Fun and Friendship on offer. The home offers comfort, security, and peace of mind. Whether residents need a little assistance, or full-time care, Care South prides itself on doing everything possible to enhance residents’ quality of life. The team strives to enable residents to continue doing what they love, whether popping out for a coffee with friends, assisted by a member of the excellent care team, or enjoying activities with visiting loved ones. Care South is a not-for-profit charity and leading provider of residential and home care across the south of England.

In the heart of the Ashley Heath community

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

22 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Health & Wellbeing

Be like a determined snowdrop The gorgeousness of nature was at her very best this morning whilst I padded out with my spaniel. As she was busy sniffsnorting on the trail of rabbits, mice and foxes, I was taking in the surroundings. Due to work commitments, I hadn’t been on my usual dog walks the previous two days and it seemed that almost overnight the snowdrops had appeared. Whilst marvelling at their pure white, shy little bowed heads, I wondered whether a snowdrop held any sort of symbol or deeper meaning. On my return home I used my good friend the worldwide web to find out. The snowdrop can be seen as a symbol of rebirth and hope, and the ability to overcome obstacles or

challenges in life (ie fight their way through the snow!) How wonderful for a small, delicate, snowdrop to have such meaning. And how utterly amazing that the determined little snowdrop bulb sprouts, grows, blooms, then withdraws and stores its energy, to do it all again the following year. This all reminds me of a quote from Lao Tzu, Chinese Philosopher, ‘nature seems not to hurry, yet everything is accomplished.’ Life is not linear, it’s up and down, and like a snowdrop, we too have a cyclical life. We can bloom, burst with energy and vibrancy and yet at other times we can find ourselves needing to withdraw and rest. But much of the time, we seem to fight the natural flow of energy

and mood within us - we have work commitments, places to be, things to do, appointments to attend, and so we end up living out of alignment with the natural rhythms of our body. We live in our mind rather than our hearts. We adhere to expectations. We conform to social realities. We spend time with those that drain us of our positive energy. We allow others’ needs to come before our own. We compare ourselves to others rather than just being at peace with ourselves. Life can feel difficult when we are ungrounded and disconnected from our intuition. I wonder how often you really access your true thoughts and feelings to find out what your body and soul

n Victoria Arnold is a life coach from Wimborne Victoriaarnold.co.uk needs? When did you last listen to your inner voice? If we want to be resilient and resourceful like that little snowdrop, we have to align to our natural rhythm. We have to recognise and give ourselves what we need, when we need it. We have to take time to nurture, nourish, relax, and reflect, in order to be able to restore, reenergise and grow. You are the priority and when you get you right, everything else falls into alignment.

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 23

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Health & Wellbeing

Are you heading for a fall?

I’ve fallen over a couple of times recently... literally. First time involved my dog and a surprised pheasant. No one was hurt. Second time I slipped on some mud, this time unaided by animals. However, my dog came over and tried to lick my face and laid down next to me (perhaps thinking I was joining in his love of rolling). I also had a near fall experience while running in Cannon Hill woods recently too – I tripped on a tree root and started a midair front crawl swimming movement. Everything went in slow motion but I managed to stay upright. The thing is, we are going to fall over at some point in our lives, that is a given. Often the only thing that is hurt is our pride. If we are frail, the stakes start to become much higher. Rather than worrying about

falling, we can instead focus on a few things to reduce our risk and minimise the impact. Firstly, reduce the chance of falling with some practical measures. For example, I know I should wear hiking boots on my walks at the moment rather than my wellies. Hiking boots have more grip and it’s muddy and wet on dog walks at the moment. At home, reducing our risk might be clearing clutter off the floor, not wearing socks on wooden floors, sticking down some carpet that has curled up or getting a banister fixed. Other times it might be having one glass of wine rather than, let’s say, several! Knowing we should do something doesn’t always mean we actually do it. We could avoid high risk activities all together, but we need to take a call as a life

without risk isn’t really a life fully lived. I fell off my bike a few times as a kid learning to ride without stabilisers. Was it worth it? Gosh, yes. Two exercises that can reduce our chance of falling and ability to get up again are squats and balance. Balance involves co-ordination, strength and (minus a few medical conditions) can be improved with practice. Strong legs help us get up stairs and in and out of chairs and strong thighs save lives! Once we have fallen, we can improve our chances of getting up again - which is something that can also be practised. I’ve run practical sessions on getting up safely off the floor after falling and on how to move around if you’re a limb down. Getting up and down off the floor is also something I practice with clients, aiming

Katrina Keeling is a Wimborne-based Personal Trainer. She coaches at WOW Ladies Fitness and independently.kkfitness.co.uk kkeelingfitness@gmail.com to minimize or remove use of their arms and build strength. It’s important for us to practice and build on. After all, life isn’t about not ever falling down, it’s about reducing the impact and building the resilience to get back up again. Now, where did I put my hiking boots?

Charity’s high praise from High Sheriff Christchurch-based charity the Water Lily Project has received two prestigious awards from the High Sheriff of Dorset, Michael Dooley. The awards recognise outstanding contributions to the community. The Christian charity, which has been running for more than 10 years, supports vulnerable women in Christchurch and surrounding areas back to independent living as well as providing help to anyone isolated and vulnerable through the services of its community café. Acting chairman of trustees Sue Daly received the first award which recognises all the work the charity has done in enhancing the life of the local community. This includes providing more than 100 meals for the homeless, as well as running an innovative ‘Chatterbox’

AWARDS: The Water Lily Project and, right, Michael Dooley with staff

initiative to bring the elderly and the very young together for companionship. The charity was also key in providing help to those isolated during Covid or at risk from domestic abuse during lockdown. Just some of the support it delivered included running support sessions online, providing Companion Calls, delivering

food parcels and activity packs to relieve anxiety. Project manager Liz Carter, who has been spearheading the work of Water Lily since 2017, received a personal award for her significant contribution to supporting the community and women suffering from domestic abuse, financial and mental health issues.

Liz said: “The work of our charity would be impossible without the whole team – a few staff and many volunteers working together to support our beneficiaries and those in the community who visit the cafe. “The team all play such a fantastic part in maintaining support for those most in need. These awards are a wonderful acknowledgement of all the hard work we do. Our charity takes its name from a plant that is beautiful on top and extremely strong beneath. These awards prove we live up to our name.”

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

24 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Health & Wellbeing

Romance blossoms

n Colten waitress Kate Wareham and resident Ray Cox enjoy the fun and games at Amberwood House

Residents at a Dorset care home spent Valentine’s Day reminiscing over their wedding days, feasting on cakes and sharing ‘getting to know you’ dates. Colten Care’s Amberwood house in Ferndown used the official day of love to celebrate friendships old and new. Companionship team member Corinne Wareham said: “We have some new residents and we decided to create a lovely atmosphere for making friends, with our lounge and dining room decorated in pink, red and white and our tables festooned with confetti, roses and little chocolates. “Our companion Rebecca Osborne provided a beautiful start to the day by singing famous love songs. “Then, at lunchtime, each resident picked a name out of

a hat to determine who they would sit next to, to open up new conversations. “And in a ‘Guess the Valentine’ game, we looked at a ‘tree of love’ featuring original wedding photos of 14 residents and tried to guess who was who.” In the afternoon, residents had a great deal of fun with the activity ‘Take a staff member on a date’, where they chose staff members with whom to share a 15-minute ‘date’ to get to know more about them. A sumptuous, Valentineinspired afternoon tea was enjoyed at 3pm and afterwards Corinne read some famous love letters from people such as George W Bush, Henry VII and Vita Sackville-West, which provoked conversations about important letters residents had

Another super New Stour & Avon Competition! Win a Decleor Aromatherapy Full Body Massage using Essential Oils worth £50! Courtesy of Blandford Health & Beauty Centre

Everyday stresses and strains simply disappear with our heavenly aromatherapy massage, to either relax, tone or stimulate. For a chance to win this pampering treatment simply answer the question below... Q: What has traditionally been placed on the eyes as part of a popular health and beauty treatment?

A) Cumin B) Cucumber C) Cue Cards Just enter on our website at blackmorevale.net/beauty-competition Full terms and conditions on our website

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 25

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Health & Wellbeing

in county care homes

n Rebecca Osborne serenades resident Judy Brown

received over the years. She said: “It was a lovely day spent encouraging new friendships and remembering good times.” At Brook View in West Moors, team members decorated the in-home café with red and pink balloon hearts and tabletop roses, enabling resident couple Audrey and David Vincent to enjoy a romantic lunch, right. It gave them the

opportunity to reminisce about their 51 years of marriage. “It was love at first dance,” said Audrey, a former teacher. “He was quite a dancer and he continues to lead the way, even if I do ‘wear the trousers’ sometimes!” Among other Colten homes, Fernhill in Longham, Dorset, staged a Valentine’s Day ball complete with live music, buffet and fizz.

n Audrey and David Vincent enjoy their romantic lunch

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

26 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Food & Drink

Suppertime, and the living is easy... The Dorset Food Co hosted their First Supper Club Night at the Barefaced Brewery Co on Thursday 10th February. Guests were greeted with a warm welcome from their host Carl Thomson, who is renowned for serving up the best artisan produce the county has to offer. ‘Game On’ was to offer locals tantalising exquisite dishes, specially prepared by Carl. Diners were presented with a truly inspiring menu to sample: Venison Carpaccio, Parmesan & Truffle followed by Confit Duck Bon Bon with Carrot, Orange & Cumin, followed by Boar served in Milk Bun with amazing Dripping Potatoes followed by Venison, Celeriac & Shallots with an incredible Earl Grey & Heather Honey Panna Cotta which had the perfect wobble!

was fantastically thought out. The evening was a great success and the diners had the opportunity to chat to Carl after to discuss how each dish was prepared and ingredients used. We look forward to the next supper club by The Dorset Food Co at Barefaced on Thursday 24th March. Before moving to Blandford Barefaced spent a summer brewing in a converted garage at Tom’s house, throwing pilot batches of pale ales and porters down the necks of neighbours and friends, they realised that good old-fashioned hard work and perseverance was starting to pay off. People liked their beer; they needed to expand. After a small stint in Bournemouth with Bad Hand Coffee they moved to their new brewery site located in Blandford in 2021, not even a year old they’ve already grown a massive following as the go-to spot after a hard week at work and are about to Paired with a tasty and perfectly celebrate their 1st birthday! balanced drinks flight, chosen by the legend that is Tom, the entire experience Ellie and Charlie attended the event

and they cannot recommend it highly enough. “Absolutely everything was amazing from the food to the service.” Upon arrival they were offered a very warm welcome with a variety of drinks offered to complement each of the five dishes that were to be served. They enjoyed a relaxing and welcoming environment and when the culinary delights were served... a real sensation for the taste buds, cooked to perfection. Amazing to remember that the delights we savoured – dishes that you would expect from a high end restaurant – were all cooked in their van! Pure brilliance. To be able to eat such delicious foods, in a wonderful environment, on my own doorstep – incredible, what more could we ask for? I recommend the Supper Club Nights to all!

The Ultimate Experience

Thai

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.

TIIEN TIIEN TIIEN bournemouth SOUTHBOURNE BROADSTONE 105 St Michael’s Rd, Bournemouth BH2 5DU 01202 299412

65 Seabourne Rd, Bournemouth BH5 2HD 01202 830620

13 Moor Road, Broadstone BH18 8AZ 01202 693600

Images by Lissjphoto Book your table and view our menus at www.tiien.co.uk

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 27

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Cooking... It’s all Greek to me! In 2019, we had a wonderful holiday in Rhodes. It was warm, sunny and very relaxed. The hotel was lovely and near to the beach. We ate out at lunchtimes in local tavernas, and were lucky to find places that served the locals their food. We have never liked restaurants abroad that need a picture to show you what you could be eating, and we try not to eat British food. We can never understand why you would want to go somewhere just to eat roast dinner or fish and chips! (Apologies if any readers do this!) So, on a rainy day, between Christmas and New Year, I decided to try and recreate that lunchtime experience so we could pretend that we were on holiday abroad! I have never cooked any Greek food before, apart from adding feta cheese to a salad, so I went online and found this recipe. Now, my husband doesn’t like aubergines, I am not sure if it’s the way I cooked them or the fact that I tried to hide them, but he had second helpings so must have liked it! Easy Moussaka Ingredients 4 medium-sized potatoes 3 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for brushing 1 red onion, sliced 500g lamb mince 2 garlic cloves, crushed 1 tsp mixed spice

500g carton passata 2 aubergines, cut into slices 300ml tub crème fraiche 140g cheddar, grated Method Boil the potatoes until just until tender. Drain and allow to cool. Add 2 tbsp olive oil and onion to a pan, cook until softened, then add the lamb. Fry for 5 mins or until cooked through. Add the garlic and spice, stir in the passata. Bring to a simmer, then season to taste, take off the heat and set aside until needed. Heat oven to 220C/200C fan/ gas 7. Warm a griddle pan over a high heat and brush a little oil over the aubergines. Grill for 2-3 mins each side or until char lines appear. You may have to do this in batches. Once cool enough to handle, cut the boiled potatoes into

It pays to advertise in the New Stour & Avon magazine!

Food & Drink

with Martha Legg

thick slices. Put 1 tbsp oil in the base of a deep ovenproof dish and start with a layer of potatoes, then aubergines, a sprinkling of seasoning, then a layer of the lamb mixture. Repeat until all the mixture is used up, ending with a layer of aubergines.

Spread the crème fraîche over the top and scatter with the cheese. Put in the oven for 10 mins or until the cheese is golden. Tip: Make sure the potatoes are soft before putting them in the dish

Enford

Farm Shop Durweston DT11 0QW

Home reared and locally produced meats, game, deli, f ruit, veg, f ree range eggs and lots more. Follow us on Facebook for all our latest meat pack deals and what’s in f resh that week. Fresh fish van in the car park Wednesdays 9.30am-2pm Half a pig approx £100 Chicken feeds etc available Open Wednesdays to Saturday 8.30am-4pm. Outside shop with self service for essentials 8am-8pm open daily

01258 450050

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

28 New Stour & Avon, February 11, 2022

Farming & Environment

A day at the farm

with Tiffany Fleming

Tiffany Fleming is a volunteer at High Mead Farm in Longham, Ferndown. High Mead Farm is a working farm run to promote the benefits of engaging with animals, soil, and nature. They ‘create purposeful roles for our cofarmers, young people and adults alike, to help bring about a sense of wellbeing and self-worth that many have never experienced before’. If you’re a regular reader of this column, you may recall that February is my favourite month of the year, and this year has proved no exception. The month was almost blighted by an outbreak of Covid amongst the staff which saw the farm close for a week, but despite the Co-Farmers’ disappointment over the cancellation of their much-loved visits, and the boredom of those in confinement, the farm fared pretty well. Hannah, Rachel, and the horticultural team spent the time devising a four-year rotation plan and planting timetable, so not only can I tell you what we are sowing this month, but also when you can expect to see the produce in the farm shop – for a non-gardener, this sort of prophecy holds an enchanting, almost clairvoyant quality. The storeroom got a thorough clear-out making

stock checks a pleasure, I no longer have to open the door in nervous anticipation of what I might find there. The day room continued its Farrow & Ball transformation, awash with restful shades of Skimming Stone and Elephant’s Breath. But these were not the most significant modifications, oh no. Our dark and dowdy kitchen – I say kitchen, but I mean ‘room with potential to become a kitchen should a miracle ever take place’ – received a spectacular Cinderella-style remodelling thanks to ‘Fairy Godfather’ Pete and his Select Interiors team. A special thank-you to Shane Biss and Dale Abley who gave up their weekend to help Pete to fit the kitchen, and thanks also to Franke, Flooring Elegance, Meyers, James Latham’s, and Tiggsy’s Plumbing for their kind contributions. Even lovers of Nick Knowles

Urgently wanted

COWS COWS COWS To receive top price for all barren cows. Brookfield Livestock Marketing Limited. Payment on the day of purchase. Haulage arranged

07811 381 159

Pictures: TIFFANY FLEMING

and DIY SOS would have been astonished to see the magnificent makeover which was completed in just three days. It is fair to say I got a little overwhelmed when I saw what Pete and his team had been up to; another example of extraordinary generosity which not only keeps the farm functioning but offers High Mead and its CoFarmers new opportunities

for the future. The new facilities have even tempted me to learn how to cook! February has also seen us planning forthcoming supporters’ events; we had a super meeting with the team from the Angel pub, part of the Hall & Woodhouse family. The pub donates to the farm every time someone buys their specialist ‘charity dish’ – who doesn’t love a steak

Roofing Sheets, New Boxed Profile, Galvanised Steel, Heavy Duty, Extra Wide Cover, Most Sizes Available also Clear GRP Roof Lights, Ridging, Fixing Screws, Delivery Possible. Please contact 01823 674414 or 07766 898886

GRAZING WANTED 10 MILE RADIUS OF TISBURY PLEASE CALL 07786261967 Round bale Silage for sale Milborne Port Telephone 07811 594029

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 29

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Farming & Environment

and Tangle Foot ale pie? The cardboard cut-out crew had another outing, this time to Sturminster Marshall Golf Club, as High Mead has been selected as their Captains’ charity for the year. Players braved the wind and rain to play a Texas Scramble competition, followed by a raffle, the proceeds of which

will be added to funds raised throughout the year and donated to the farm. For a short month, to see so much progress and support is both heart-warming and humbling in equal measure. February is the month of love and we are certainly feeling the love at High Mead.

30 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Fall in in love love with with your your Fall conservatory again. again. conservatory

Is your your conservatory conservatorytoo toocold coldinin Is too hot hotin inthe thesummer? summer? winter and and too winter

Choose a Vantage tiled conservatory roof manufactured by SupaLite Choose a Vantage tiled conservatory roof manufactured by SupaLite

• Warm in winter, cool in summer Warm in in winter, winter, cool insystem summer •• Guarantee Warm cool in summer on our roof -

Guaranteebuilding on our our roof roof system-regulations •• alongside Guarantee on system alongside building regulations alongside building • Tailor made for yourregulations conservatory Tailor made made for for your your conservatory conservatory ••• Tailor Highly energy energy efficient efficient •• Highly

Call Craig on 07793 982 722 Call Craig Craig on on 07793 07793 982 982 722 722

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 31

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Home & Garden

Forager gets tangled up in ‘string theory’ I found a massive knot of pink string in a puddle while dog-walking. It set me thinking about the Greek myth of Theseus and the Minotaur’s labyrinth, (as you do!) How Ariadne suggests Theseus use a ball of string to find his way out of the maze. Walking, thinking grand thoughts I imagined and later (after washing and untangling) made a ‘Modern Art’ picture with the string, which to me was a commentary on how the establishment represses our creativity. ‘Entrails’ one family member snorted, giving the picture a caustic glance followed later by an older member saying: “Ah yes

Jo Green is a former allotmenteer, forager, amateur herbalist, pickler and jam maker who squeezed her allotment greenery into her tiny garden

Japanese Rope Erotica is trending”. Good to know I always have

my family to bring me down to Earth with a bump! I tried another era’s frame but even

I could see it just looked like pink spaghetti on burnt toast! Sometimes, juxtaposing a frame with the picture can really refresh the whole effect - hmm but maybe not this time! Third time lucky... I made a plant hanger. It helped that there was a lot of string (always cut a bit more than they say) and also that the first planter I used was transparent so I could see and untangle quickly if any strings went astray. After wading through many complicated YouTube videos I found ‘DIY Plant Hanger - Fairyland Cottage’ and, despite much pausing and puzzling, I did manage to create something useful and it got the thumbs-up from all the family - even the cat !

Now only

£895

for a fully fitted electric garage door. WAS £1,354 INCLUDING VAT.

Just quality windows, doors and conservatories with a 10 year guarantee and free survey & quotation

WHAT’S INCLUDED WITH EVERY DOOR: • • • • •

FREE EXPERT MEASURING & FITTING 2 REMOTE CONTROLS ACOUSTIC & THERMAL INSULATION FREE DISPOSAL OF YOUR OLD DOOR AVAILABLE IN 21 COLOURS

Garolla garage doors are expertly made to measure in our own UK factories, they’re strong and solidly built. The electric Garolla door rolls up vertically, taking up only 8 inches inside your garage, maximising valuable space.

Give us a call today and we’ll come and measure up completely FREE of charge.

01202 886061 CALL US TODAY ON:

01202 805 133 MOBILE:

07537 149 128

Unit 18, Riverside Park Industrial Estate, Station Road, Wimborne BH21 1QU

www.sunshinewindows-dorset.co.uk

32 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

THINKING OF PAINTING THE EXTERIOR Call us now OF YOUR HOUSE THIS YEAR?

COUNTRY

WIDE WALL LOFT SURVEYS

PROPERLA® Facade Coating The ultimate weather protection When applied to the exterior of your home PROPERLA® gives a Super Hydrophobic protective coating that water cannot stick to. Instead it forms beads that simply run off the treated surfaces, taking particles and dirt with it. At the same time Properla® allows the masonry and brickwork to ‘breathe’, so moisture and water can escape. Walls coated with Properla® see a massive 93% reduction in water absorption, and dry walls mean less heat loss from your home.

For more information go to www.countrywide-surveys.co.uk Follow us at countrywide-surveys.co.uk

Call 0800 2465145, quote code ‘2022’ Thinking of painting your to take advantage exterior walls? of ®our Early Bird Offer 15% off your PROPERLA exterior wall coating, NEVER PAINT AGAIN! ...then contact Countrywide for a water tight solution

Background photo by Raychel Sanner on Unsplash

for a no obligation quotation. Find out how to protect your biggest asset

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 33

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Home & Garden

Hannah’s Horticulture... with Hannah Hobbs-Chell

Time is Marching on! At the farm, we’ve been busy preparing beds for vegetables and new plantings, planting a few new trees including fruit trees, planting a second willow tunnel in the duck pen thanks to generous fundraising by some of our volunteers, and starting of the sowing for the coming season under heat, amongst other things. So what is there for people at home to do to get a bit of horticultural therapy in March? Start sowing summer vegetables. Tomatoes, cucumber, peppers and aubergines all need planting now, and kept at roughly 21C to germinate. You can sow an early crop of carrots; varieties such as Early Nantes are reliable and good for early and late sowings. Succession sow throughout summer for a continuous supply. Wait until April for beans and peas. Purchase or sow any annual seeds and plants as plugs now, but keep them in a frost free greenhouse or conservatory. Have some fleece or bubble wrap handy for cold nights and tuck them up! Pot the seedlings on as soon as they show two ‘true’, or normal, leaves, and pot plugs on as soon as you get them ideally. Move snowdrops when they’ve finished flowering. Snowdrops need moving ‘in the green’, that is they still have leaves on, rather than

Horticulturist and garden designer/consultant Hannah is the gardener at High Mead Farm, looking after four acres of gardens and landscape. If you have a question for her, email:hannah.hobbschell@ outlook.com including a picture if relevant

as bare bulbs. You will have a lot more success this way as snowdrop bulbs tend to struggle more to germinate if they are dried out. Top tip – now is also a good time to look in the bargain bench of garden centres for snowdrops that have finished flowering! Prune roses in early March if not done, and give them a mulch and feed to help these hungry plants perform. I treat my shrub roses as slightly large hybrid teas, which are the most common rose people have. Cut back to a bud that faces the way you want the branch to go, aiming to keep an open but upright structure. Cut down to about 4-6 buds from the ground, certainly no more than a foot. Remove any dead, diseased or crossing branches at the same time. Many summer or late-summer flowering deciduous shrubs can be pruned between January and March. Examples include Buddleja davi-

HOUSE CLEARANCE Plus Sheds, Attics, Garages & Gardens Quality Items Offset Registered Waste Carrier

Tel: 01202 001614 or 07853 275379 enquiries@back2market.com www.

.com

dii, Caryopteris clandonensis,Ceratostigma, Hydrangea paniculata, Leycesteria, Lavatera, hardy fuchsia, and deciduous Ceanothus. Coppice (cut down to almost ground level) dogwoods and winter colour stems. Divide and move perennials and grasses, and cut back last year’s growth now that the weather has warmed up a bit

and new shoots are appearing. Trim winter flowering heathers as the flowers fade. Many people think you can’t trim heathers, and they are correct that they won’t grow back from old wood, but if kept trimmed each year they will stay neat and bushy rather than going leggy and bare. Make sure you stop to enjoy the early blooms and blossom from cherries, daffodils, crocus, etc.

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

34 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

The

1 big reason to buy from us?

...Number1

Quality... ...Number1

uPVC Windows Low maintenance Soundproof Insulation

Aluminium Windows Slim sightlines Thermally efficient Secure

...Number1

uPVC Doors Thermally efficient Security features Insulation

...Number1

Aluminium Bifold Doors Low upkeep Intruder proof Slim frames

Composite Doors Thermally efficient Longlasting Low maintenance

...Number1

Conservatories Thermally Efficient ‘Outer’ space Easy to clean

Quality Windows, Doors and Conservatories At Number 1 Windows Ltd, a Certass approved company, we pride ourselves on our attention to detail from survey to design, right through to the installation process.

Our ultimate aim is always achieving 100% customer satisfaction. Number 1 Windows completed all the work to a very high standard. Ahead of schedule and under budget! They even carried out repairs to other parts of the house without charge. Customer testimonial

01202 283741 sales@number1windows.co.uk Unit 9 29-31 Cobham Business Park, Ferndown Industrial Estate, Wimborne BH21 7BX

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 35

A local, family run business based in Rockbourne since 1995, offering green waste disposal and the sale of top quality accredited topsoil and compost. On site processing of materials produces excellent screened 10mm topsoil, landscaping compost for domestic and commercial use and agricultural spec compost Local Delivery available for bulk bags or loose loads For more information about our products please contact Rod 01725 518673/07896 544197 www.newbournecompost.co.uk

36 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

HIGH QUALITY WORK FOR LOW CUT PRICES ! New Roofs • Flat Roofs • Tile & Slate Roofs • Leadwork • Re-pointing Chimney Stacks • All Roof Repairs • New UPVC Fascias & Gutters • External Painting • Moss Removal

SPECIAL WINTER OFFER Find & Repair Leak from £150 Moss Removal from £250 Repointing Chimneys from £275 Valley, Gable & Ridge Repointing from £375 We are proud members of CORC (Confederation of Roofing Contractors) Established in 1985, CORC is the premier roofing trades association in the UK. All new works carry our fully insured 10-20 year back up guarantee.

Ask Work Smart for a FREE no obligation quote today! Office : 01202 927934 Mobile 07367 112303 info@worksmartroofing.co.uk www.worksmartroofing.co.uk

Talbot School II & III

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 37 ‘The Thinker’ photograph by Avery Evans on Unsplash

osingstouravonmagazine.co.uk the best Junior school for your daughter?

Dumpton School IV & V

EDUCATION

“Education breeds confidence. Confidence breeds hope. Hope breeds peace.” Confucius

s one of the most innovative and influential independent schools in the country (i25 Excellence in Education Awards 2019)

PENDAY

and find out why, to book your place, please register via our website.

How do you pick the best school for your child? Whether you are choosing public, private or homeschooling, careful planning is a must. Its one of the big decisions you’ll have to make as a parent, so you want to get it right. If you are looking at a particular school, their website is a good place to start. This may give you an idea of the school’s character. Look also at school policies on special educational needs, disability, behaviour and supporting pupils with health conditions. This may tell you about the level of understanding and help your child would receive in that school.

The Superior Apprenticeship Programme is now open to applications! We are looking for our future Engineers, Scientists and Business Managers to join our Degree Apprenticeship Programme

Pre-Prep and Junior School, Fri 4th March 2022

ath

ged 3-18

With its own in-house training Academy and engineering workshop, Superior can support Our unique STEAM curriculum for the future is taught from age 3 and includes; you during your entire Apprenticeship. The Coding | Design Thinking | Project Management | Digital Design Company has been recognized for having Ethics | Material Science one of the best Apprenticeship programmes in the UK by the National Apprenticeship • Through school specialising in nurturing girls from Kindergarten to 6th Form Service and was awarded the prestigious • State of the art STEAM HUB • One to one iPads from Reception Princess Royal Training Award for its • Apple Distinguished School • Forest School in our own beautiful woods investment in apprenticeships, training and • Acres of outdoor space and sports facilities • Fully equipped Music School development of its employees. • Top performing Tennis & Swimming Academies • Dedicated Pastoral support and nursing team

nemouth | www.talbotheath.org | Search @TalbotHeathSch | 01202 761881

d boarding | Private buses across Dorset and the New Forest

To find out more and apply visit www.superiorltd.com/academy/

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

38 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Are you choosing the best Junior school for your daughter?

Talbot Heath are named as one of the most innovative and influential independent schools in the country (i25 Excellence in Education Awards 2019)

OPENDAY Come along and find out why, to book your place, please register via our website.

Kindergarten, Pre-Prep and Junior School, Fri 4th March 2022 Our unique STEAM curriculum for the future is taught from age 3 and includes; Coding | Design Thinking | Project Management | Digital Design Ethics | Material Science • Through school specialising in nurturing girls from Kindergarten to 6th Form • State of the art STEAM HUB • One to one iPads from Reception

Talbot Heath

Independent School for Girls aged 3-18

• Apple Distinguished School • Forest School in our own beautiful woods • Acres of outdoor space and sports facilities • Fully equipped Music School • Top performing Tennis & Swimming Academies • Dedicated Pastoral support and nursing team

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 39

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Educating girls – the school that encourages pupils to think big By education journalist Emma Lee-Potter

hoosing a school for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. Should you opt for a single-sex or co-ed school? Day or boarding? An all-through school or stand-alone junior and secondary schools? Founded in 1886, Talbot Heath School has a long history of educating girls. This high-achieving, all-girls’ school in Bournemouth offers a first-class education in a caring and supportive environment. As well as achieving excellent academic results, it prides itself on giving pupils the opportunity to pursue a host of co-curricular opportunities, from sport and music to drama and dance. “Our girls are encouraged to think big and have aspirations,” says Talbot Heath head Angharad Holloway. “Our ground-breaking approach to education combines rigour with exploration and focuses on a curriculum that is creative, broad and in line with that being offered by the most dynamic and successful schools globally.”

Uptake of STEM subjects is higher Teachers at Talbot Heath believe that

girls benefit hugely from single-sex education. Their view is borne out by academic studies showing that girls who attend girls’ schools outperform students in co-ed schools. Uptake of STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) subjects tends to be higher and the Institute of Physics reports that girls who attend girls’ schools are significantly more likely to take physics at A level than girls in co-ed schools.

“Our girls are encouraged to think big and have aspirations Girls at single-sex schools are often keener to take part in sport than their peers at co-ed schools. They also leap at the chance to shoulder responsibility, take risks, inspire and lead others – all vital skills for university, the world of work and life beyond school.

An educational journey Talbot Heath has the added advantage of being an all-through school (the junior and senior school share the same site in leafy Talbot Woods). When

pupils join the junior school at the age of three they embark on an educational journey that takes them right the way through to the sixth form. Girls can also join at other points throughout the school. Senior girls act as role models and develop invaluable leadership skills, while the youngergirls benefit from the older girls’ support and guidance. The juniors are also able to use the senior school’s impressive facilities, including the superb new STEAM Hub, complete with a 600-seat auditorium, art studios and design workshops. As Liz Pugh, head of Talbot Heath’s junior school, says: “This all-through provision means that we really get to know every pupil both academically and pastorally. Our curriculum provides a greater consistency and progression as our dedicated staff can collaborate and liaise across year groups and key stages and build strong, supportive, nurturing relationships having guided girls through all aspects of their development. “There is something very special about growing up and spending your education surrounded by familiar people and places. It develops a strong sense of security that enables our pupils to look outwards and take on the future with confidence and conviction.”

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

40 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Home to Growth and Learning

www.dumpton.com

DUMPTON_2021_AD_210x270_2JD.indd 1

07/02/2022 15:16

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

eople often remark that there is something special about Dumpton. It is a wonderful place for a child to be. We are well known for our fantastic facilities and beautiful rural site. However, it is brilliant human beings not just brilliant facilities – that are at the heart of any successful school. The success of this school lies in the strength of our values and ethos, something we sum up for our pupils in four words: ‘Be Kind’, and ‘Aim High’.

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 41

Welcome to Dumpton School

BE KIND Kindness could not be more important to us at Dumpton. Our main school rule is ‘treat others as you would like to be treated’;, and we aim for friendliness and empathy to permeate every classroom and corridor of the school. The atmosphere is nurturing and inclusive, and pupils, staff and parents share strong relationships as a result. Dumpton is more than just a school: it is a home away from home

“Treat others as you would like to be treated AIM HIGH Our quiet sense of aspiration and ambition is illustrated by our school motto: ‘you can because you think you can’. Inspiring self-belief is key. Inside the classroom, this means a commitment to small class sizes, highquality teaching, and academic success for all. It means helping every child realise that with hard work, practice, determination and resilience, anything is possible. Outside the classroom, this means a broad range of experiences that not only provide huge enjoyment but, crucially, help children further develop their character. It is of course the outcomes that matter most. Our track record of ensuring successful transfer to the finest Senior Schools - and over 100 scholarships in the last four years alone - suggests we are getting something right too. Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions you will make so please come and see our wonderful facilities, meet our superb pupils and staff, and, most importantly, experience for yourself the sense of community and aspiration that makes Dumpton such a special place. Christian Saenger, Headmaster.

We currently have opportunities for pupils to join Dumpton for the next academic year so do please get in touch – we can promise you the warmest of welcomes. Go to our website www.dumpton.com to find out more and to register interest for our next Taster Day on Thursday 24 March 2022.

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

42 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Arts & Entertainments

Sound of sea at Alderholt Celebrate the sound and beauty of the sea, as captured by the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra’s chamber ensemble, at Alderholt tomorrow, Saturday. The afternoon concert kicks off at 2.30pm at the village hall and features

Vaughan Williams’ Sea Songs, Handel’s Water Music as well as Bobby Darin’s Beyond The Sea and Adele’s Rolling In The Deep! Tickets are from £5 and you can book here: bsolive.com/events/bso-onyour-doorstep-alderholt/

Although it is not currently a legal requirement, please consider wearing a face covering to protect yourself and others when visiting the Tivoli.

FAIRPORT CONVENTION

P*SSED UP PANTO: CINDERELLA

PLEA S KE E CHEC EP KI OU NG WEBSR ITE

CLIVE ANDERSON: ME, MACBETH & I

THE LOST DAUGHTER (15)

AN EVENING OF BURLESQUE

(Over 18s only)

28th Feb, 1st & 2nd March 7.30pm, Matinee 2nd March 2pm Tickets £8 eves, Mat £7, concs £6

Thursday 3rd March 7.30pm

(Over 16’s only) Saturday 26th February 7.30pm, Tickets £17.50

Sunday 27th February 7.30pm Tickets £20

(Box Office bookings over £20 incur £1 booking fee)

(Box Office bookings incur £1 booking fee per transaction)

(Box Office bookings over £20 incur £1 booking fee)

(Box Office bookings incur £1 booking fee per transaction)

REGINALD D HUNTER: BOMBE SHUFFLEUR

THE FUREYS

AN EVENING WITH

KATHRYN ROBERTS & SEAN LAKEMAN

RICH HALL’S SHOWDOWN

Friday 25th Feb 7.30pm Tickets £28

Suitable for ages 18+ Friday 4th March 8pm Tickets £23 (Box Office bookings incur £1 booking fee per transaction)

Saturday 5th March 7.30pm Tickets £24 (Box Office bookings over £20 incur £1 booking fee)

GEOFF HURST

Tuesday 8th March 7.30pm Tickets £55 VIP, Standard £25 (Box Office bookings incur £1 booking fee per transaction)

Wednesday 9th March 7.30pm Tickets £18.50 (Box Office bookings over £20 incur £1 booking fee)

Additional show added!

Friday 13th May 7.30pm Tickets £25

Thursday 10th March 8pm Tickets £17 (Box Office bookings over £20 incur £1 booking fee)

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Care home actors leave audience asking for some more

Residents at a Dorset care home have showcased their acting and singing talents in a mini-production of the musical Oliver! Since the beginning of the year, Colten Care’s Whitecliffe House in Blandford Forum has rung to the sounds of toe-tapping tunes such as Consider Yourself, Reviewing The Situation and Pick A Pocket Or Two. Companionship team member Caroline Pugh is a cellist and pianist who graduated from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and now leads many of the music and drama activities at the home. She explained: “We have so many musical residents and everyone involved in the production was happy to put their heart and soul into rehearsing songs and short excerpts ready for a performance to other residents and staff.” Lead character Oliver, played by resident Sylvia Drew, was very convincing in her delivery of the famous line: ‘Please, sir, I want some more!’, while Maureen Smith’s quiet humour proved a good choice for

New Stour & Avon, February 11, 2022 43

Arts & Entertainments

Invitation to join theatre’s celebrations To celebrate 30 years of

Dodger and Lois Ramsden excelled in the role of crafty Fagin. Born in London’s East End, Shirley Thomson was the perfect Nancy. And to complete the line-up, Coralie Jackson was an austere Mr Bumble and home manager Chris Lee was a suitably dastardly Bill Sikes. Caroline added: “Singing is a fantastic activity for health and wellbeing and is something our residents really look forward to each week. “It has been an absolute pleasure to see the fun and laughter enjoyed by all.”

producing site-specific community performances, Wimborne Community Theatre is working on an innovative new production and is keen to hear from would-be actors, artists, musicians and backstage staff who’d like to join the project. The production, a celebration of Wimborne’s River Stour, reflects on themes relating to sense of place, personal and mythical stories and memories, and the importance of the river ecology in our lives. Featuring large-scale puppets it will take audiences on a short journey close to the river near Julian’s Bridge, following two young people on a quest – both personal and mythical – to better understand recent losses in their lives. Along the way, they meet characters and creatures who bring humour, advice and healing as the pair discover how ‘the river runs through us’. Guest director is Joe Hancock, of Devon theatre company, Burn The Curtain, and three puppet-making workshops in May will be led by Burn the Curtain’s puppet makers. To register interest or for more information, contact: gill.horitz@icloud.com WCT members have researched Wimborne’s rivers Allen and Stour over the last two years and stories and memories by local people can be read at: wimbornecommunitytheatre. co.uk/river-memories-localpeople/ burnthecurtain.co.uk wimbornecommunitytheatre. co.uk/about-us/

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

44 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Arts & Entertainments by Lorraine Gibson It began with pumpkins at a Broadstone grocer’s and has now reached a deli and a butcher’s in Wimborne. It’s not a quirky, squash-based foodie fad but a series of beautifully-detailed paintings of Dorset shopfronts by artist Andrea Hook. Spotting a colourful pumpkin display in her local grocer’s last October Andrea, an award-winning floral, portrait and landscape painter who’s work’s been displayed in the London Mall Galleries, was inspired to capture the scene. Followed by another. And then another. As the collection grew, so too did people’s interest in the charming oil paintings of familiar and well-loved shops. “Originally, my only intention was to paint the (pumpkin) scene for an autumnal post on social media but then I painted Winifred’s 1929 as it stocks my paintings and cards,” says Andrea. “The local response to the Winifred’s picture on Facebook was so amazing, I kept going. “I’ve called the series Painting The Town. It started off as a collection of shopfront paintings, but ended up a celebration

Artist Andrea paints the

of the high street with a lot of positive support for our independent shops. She adds: “There’s a lot of love out there for our local businesses - and quite right too!” Andrea has been painting and sketching since childhood and several of her works have been selected for significant art awards. Whether it’s flowers, portraits or landscapes, she has a knack of making the everyday look exceptional.

One painting of a woman having an eye test entitled Better With Or Without? was chosen by musician and art collector Beverly Knight as a winning image for the 2020 ING Discerning Eye Exhibition. As her art success continued, Andrea decided to pivot her work-life balance and paint full-time instead of juggling jobs. “It was scary, but I felt I just had to go for it,” she says. “It was a case of now or never.”

Crocks are still alive (just) and gigging! THE

EXCHANGE

Sturminster Newton

THEATRE MUSIC CINEMA COMEDY VENUE HIRE CAFE/ BAR GALLERY

FOREVER IN BLUE JEANS SAT 19TH MAR, 7:30PM Songs from Patsy Cline, Elvis Presley, and Dolly Parton. £22/ £20 conc

MOTHERING SUNDAY (15)

THURS 24TH MAR, 7PM Cinema sponsored by Farnfields Solicitors. (15) £5

ONE NIGHT IN DUBLIN SAT 26TH MAR, 7:30PM A celebration of the music and songs of Ireland! £21

www.stur-exchange.co.uk 01258 475137

By Lorraine Gibson Proving the power of local press, young-at-heart malevoice trio, Crocks Alive (just), were given a gig directly off the back of a story we ran on them last September. We told how the guys were excited about being able to perform again after the lockdown restrictions and that they were actively seeking bookings. Now the Crocks, aka, Ian, David and Bob, are thrilled to tell us that they’re booked alongside the Liquorice Quartet for a charity concert in aid of multiple sclerosis and St. Mary’s Church, West Moors, so will be back on stage soon. “Delighted to let you know that this charity concert booking came about because you very kindly included a great article about Crocks Alive (just) in a recent publication,” says Ian.

“Thank you and we look forward to playing our part in supporting the MS Society and St Mary’s Church West Moors. “Come and enjoy a great evening out!” The acapella group’s set will include their unique take on You Are The New Day (a The Kings Singers’ staple); The Hippopotamus Song (Flanders and Swann); Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow? (Carole King and Gerry Goffin); and The Anthem from the musical Chess (by the brilliant

ABBA boys). There will be a poignant moment when David plays Soliloquy, a beautifullyevocative instrumental piece he wrote for his late wife. “Every guest will have a great evening,” promises Ian. “Doesn’t everyone deserve that after two years’hardship?” Saturday, March, 19, 7.30pm. Tickets £10, including refreshments, from Dixon Kelly Estate Agents or 01202 890098, 01202 871616 or on the door.

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 45

town, er, ‘orangey-pink’

However, life is rarely straightforward and no sooner had she created a collection of wildflower paintings and had them printed on to cushions, drinks bottles and other items ready to sell in venues like the Allendale Centre, Covid interfered. “I did one sale and did well - then things changed; suddenly I was stuck with all this stock and nowhere to sell it. I couldn’t move for cushions!” Stuck with the situation, it was time for

another re-boot. “I thought: ‘I’ll just get through this year and I’ll be fine.’ I gave the stock to a shop in Corfe and started painting again.” Cue the pumpkins and a whole new audience. So many people wanted the one-off works Andrea shared online that she created a calendar and posters to meet demand. Designed in late November, they were printed by December 4 and in local shops

Arts & Entertainments the week before Christmas. They were an instant sell-out. The mini-masterpieces are a nod to impressionism and she calls them her ‘wibbly-wobbly’ paintings due to their vibrant, fluid quality. They’re made by layering paint on an orangey-pink ‘ground’ and adding shapes to represent people and objects, that are then defined to give a sense of place and movement. After painting Broadstone, Andrea’s now working on Wimborne and has already immortalised the East Street Deli and Keating’s Butchers. The latter holds fond memories for her. “It used to be a family tradition to buy venison sausages there every school holiday Friday, on our way back from market.” She adds: “Happy days and, of course, they’re still there, the butcher’s and the sausages!” Andrea will create a Wimborne 2023 calendar and will be selling at the Allendale Centre on October 16 and December 10 and 11. To find out more visit andreahookart.com

New Stour & Avon Competition Win two tickets to

“Chess”

at the Regent Centre, Christchurch on Wednesday 27 April at 7.30pm

Make your move for a chance to win... simply answer the question below: Q: What was the title of the hit song from the musical Chess? A) One Night In Bangkok B) One Night In Skegness C) One Night In With A Packet of Biscuits Enter via our website

https://blackmorevale.net/comps/ Full terms & conditions available on our website

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

46 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Arts & Entertainments

Putting class in ‘unclassifiable’ already Expect thrillingly original cutting-edge klezmer and world folk music from some of Scotland’s finest musicians as Moishe’s Bagel make a much-anticipated return to the Artsreach rural touring circuit in Dorset this March. Formed in Edinburgh in 2003, Moishe’s Bagel combines the energy and passion of Eastern European folk music with the excitement and soul of improvisation. Stunning original compositions meet sublime traditional melodies, all backed up by infectious footstomping grooves. Moishe’s Bagel have regularly toured across the UK and overseas, notching up sell-out gigs at venues including the Sage Gateshead, St George’s Bristol, Edinburgh Queens Hall and many more. Along the way, they have recorded four albums, earning them a Songlines Top Of The World and Sunday Telegraph top 10 world albums accolade.

n The Oddfellows Friendship Society Acorn branch meets every month at Three Legged Cross Village Hall, Wimborne. On Tuesday, March 8, they are having a tea party at 2pm with a £3 entry fee. Their meeting on Saturday, April 9, will be £4 with soup and a sandwich, starting at 1.30pm. For more information contact the social secretary on 01202 772624. n Honeybuns is hosting a pop-up shop on Saturday, March 5, 9.30am-noon. They say there will be ‘not quite perfect gluten-free cakes at perfect prices’. Dairy free/vegan options. For pre-orders call 01963 23597. honeybuns.co.uk/popupshop Honeybuns, Naish Farm, Stony Lane, Holwell..

CUTTING EDGE: Moishe’s Bagel

Boasting some of the best instrumentalists that Scotland has to offer on accordion, piano, fiddle, and percussion, join this virtuoso band for a night of rip-roaring, foot-

stomping, jazz-inflected klezmer and Balkan music. Moishe’s Bagel perform at Sturminster Marshall (07903 057427) on Saturday, March 12, and Cerne Abbas (07823

778758) on Sunday, March 13. Further information and tickets are also available online from www.artsreach. co.uk.

Murder at the Playhouse Something Miss Marple, who must A Murder Is Announced... worth seeing and you can see it all unravel a complex series unfold at the Salisbury Playhouse from March 7-12. The drama is based on the eponymous Agatha Christie book, and features the residents of Chipping Cleghorn, who are astonished to read an advert in the local newspaper that a murder will take place this coming Friday at Little Paddocks, the home of Letitia Blacklock. Unable to resist, the group gather at the house at the appointed time, when the lights go out and a gun is fired. Enter the sleuthing senior,

of relationships and events to solve the mystery of the killer... The Middle Ground Theatre Production features Sarah Thomas (Last Of The Summer Wine), Barbara Wilshere (The Lakes/The Paradise Club), Tom Butcher (The Bill/ Doctors), Karen Drury (Brookside), Lucy Evans (Coronation Street), Tom Gibbons (The Archers) plus a full supporting cast Booking details at wiltshirecreative.co.uk.

Fans of Paul Simon won’t want to miss a special performance devoted to the singer/songwriter at the Salisbury Playhouse on Wednesday, March 2. Something About Simon – The Paul Simon Story, is brought to life by singer-songwriter Gary Edward Jones who not only recites the music of one of his idols, but also tells the unique story of Paul Simon, combining visuals, stage design and, of course, the music. The show has already wowed the Edinburgh Fringe and has been rescheduled from last November. More details from wiltshirecreative.co.uk.

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 47

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Arts & Entertainments

First time at Mill for creative art group Members of Wimborne art group Wimborne Creatives are looking forward to staging their spring exhibition, Into The Paint, in the gallery at Walford Mill from March 2 to 13. Led by Heather Gibbons, a well-known Purbeck artist, who exhibits regularly in Purbeck and Dorset Art Weeks, this is the first time that this established group has shown examples of their work at the Mill. Wimborne Creatives are a group of artists whose work emphasises their ‘individualism’ both in subject matter and working practice, resulting in a range of paintings encompassing land and seascapes, still life, portraiture, moving towards abstraction and surrealism. Many of the group have travelled extensively and this has enriched and influenced their creative ideas. Whilst enjoying the exhibition, the

Happyccino Coffee & Brunch Bar at the Mill offers a variety of refreshments. Walford Mill offers educational

workshops and Makers’ Studios. It is open Wednesday to Saturday from 10am-4pm and Sundays 11am-4pm.

HIGH ST, CHRISTCHURCH (01202) 499199 www.regentcentre.co.uk THE DUKE (12A)

Sat 26 Feb: 2.30pm & 7pm | Sun 27 Feb: 7.30pm | Mon 28 Feb - Wed 2 Mar: 11am, 2.30pm & 7.30pm | Thu 3 Mar: 11am, 2.30pm

POLTERGEIST (1982) (15) - [35mm Presentation] Sat 26 Feb: 10pm | Tickets £10, Conc. £9

REGENT 90TH: BIG BAND BIRTHDAY BASH Sun 27 Feb: 2.30pm | Tickets: £10 | New Forest Big Band & guests “The Fiﬁnellas”

REGENT COMEDY CLUB with Shappi Khorsandi Thurs 3 March: 7.30pm | Tickets £17 | Plus two support acts

A very good Robin Hood Colehill Music and Drama (CoMaD) were delighted with the audiences who came along to see Robin Hood, their latest pantomime, to enable a generous donation from the proceeds to go to Going For Bust, the East Dorset & West Hampshire breast cancer charity. Given the underlying circumstances caused by the Pandemic, the society was worried that audiences would be relatively low but, although slightly down

on the last panto, in 2020, the numbers exceeded expectations. “This panto was originally planned for February 2021, it was great to get back into costume, in my case the Dame’s costume, and create lots of laughs for our family audiences,” said star John Bounds (pictured as Dame Flatbread). “The audiences were fabulous, getting into the spirit of the panto from the very first scene.”

DEATH ON THE NILE (12A)

Fri 4, Sat 5, Mon 7 Mar: 10.45am, 1.45pm, 5pm, 8.15pm | Tue 8 Mar: 12pm, 3.30pm | Wed 9 Mar: 10.45am, 1.45pm, 8.15pm | Thu 10 Mar: 3.30pm | Subtitled: Sun 6 Mar: 12pm & Wed 9 Mar: 5pm

NATURALLY 7

Sun 6 March: 7.30pm | Tickets: £26, Conc. £25

FRIDA KAHLO: Exhibition on Screen (12A) Tues 8 March: 7.30pm | Tickets: £14.50, Conc. £13.50

ROYAL OPERA: RIGOLETTO (Anniversary Screening) (12A) Thurs 10 March: 7.15pm Tickets: £18.50, Conc. £16.50, Child: £10

SIMON BRODKIN (AKA LEE NELSON) - Troublemaker Fri 11 March: 8pm | Tickets: £21

NATHAN CARTER & HIS BAND (plus support) Sat 12 March: 7.30pm | Tickets: £30

MONTY PYTHON’S LIFE OF BRIAN (1979) - [35mm Presentation] Sun 13 March 2022: 7.30pm | Tickets: £10, Conc. £9

AN EVENING WITH JACK PACK

Sat 19 March: 7.30pm | Tickets £25 BGT ﬁnalists. Fundraising show in aid of The Brain Tumour Charity.

THE OMEN (1976) (15) - [35mm Presentation] Fri 25 March: 10pm | Tickets: £10, Conc. £9

THE MANFREDS - Hits, Jazz & Blues Tour Sat 26 March: 7.30pm | £26.50, Conc. £25.50

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

48 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Arts & Entertainments

Fabulous Fifties are featured at museum Do you Remember the fabulous 1950s? Even if you don’t you’re bound to enjoy a wallow in nostalgia at the Blandford Fashion Museum. The museum opened for its new season this week

with a stunning display of 1950s costumes designed to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. There are swimming costumes and sun suits (remember them?) a bridal dress and absolutely

covetable evening wear for both men and women, together with picnic flasks, straw hats, union jacks and other patriotic symbols. The display is a triumph of Stella Walker, museum curator, and her team’s hard

work whilst overcoming the chaos during the museum’s renovations. Other new displays include an exquisite 1907 Christening gown made by a French mother for her new baby boy.

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 49

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Arts & Entertainments

French fun with the flirtatious Fifi Experience an exciting and uplifting insight into a hundred years of French Music as FiFi La Mer and Oliver Wilby make their debut appearance together on the Artsreach rural touring circuit in Dorset this March. Fifi la Mer was born in Paris and, when not touring with this popular show, performs with her band ‘Oh la la!’, who have played to sell-out venues including The Elgar room at the Royal Albert Hall and the flower hall at Covent Garden Royal Opera House. Jazz musician Oliver Wilby regularly tours with the Pasadena Roof Orchestra, the Ray Gelato Giants and others. This acclaimed show features the dulcet tones of chanteuse Fifi on accordion, and the talents of Oliver on clarinet, members of the saxophone family and accordion. Together the pair will take audiences on a journey through 100 years of French music, from Offenbach

and Gainsbourg to Michel Legrand and Edith Piaf, sharing tales of the mystery, romance and heartache that we so often associate with Paris, alongside a repertoire of musical gems. Expect a toe-tapping tribute to French music from this entertaining duo as

Blandford Fashion Museum A message to all Fashionistas:

Blandford Fashion Museum and Tea Shop is Opening its doors for the New Season on 21st February. Come and see our new Displays. A 1950’s Fest to celebrate Her Majesty the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. The Ballroom is full of Retro Magic from ball gowns to swimming costumes and coronation themed clothes. It is an unmissable exhibition. Delicious home made cakes and savoury snacks will once more be available . Opening Times Open from mid – February to the last Saturday in November Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10.00am – 4.30pm, Last entry half an hour before closing. Ticket Prices: Adults: £5.50 Concessions (Seniors 60+) £4.50 Students: (16+) £3.00 Under the age of 16yrs – free (must be accompanied by a fee paying adult) Friends of the Museum – free

01258 453006

Blandfordfashionmuseum.co.uk

See us on Facebook contact us on Messenger and Instagram.

they tour to Ibberton (01258 817269) on Friday, March 18, Martinstown (01305 889738) on Saturday, March 19, and Hinton Martel (01258 840066) on Sunday, March 26. French-themed costume and fancy dress is strongly encouraged, with a prize from FiFi for the best-dressed in each venue! Further information and tickets are also available online at artsreach. co.uk.

Ringwood Antiques & Decorative Arts Market Antiques | Collectables | Art & Makers

DATES FOR 2022

Saturday 5th March

Also Saturdays 7th May, 9th July, 3rd September, 5th November, 10th December

The Gateway Concourse & Furlong Shopping Centre 9.00am - 3.30pm www.acvrevents.co.uk

07514 680872

Antique & Arts Fair

acvr_events

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

50 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Business

Dacombe’s century of trading is Matt Renaut is a proud man – and he’s not afraid to shout about it. His family-run business, Dacombes of Wimborne, officially celebrates its centenary this year. Quite an achievement for any company but in the fiercely competitive world of electrical retailing, even more so. But, says Matt, the ongoing success of Dacombes proves that there’s still a place for independent businesses in 2022. He said: “Price is important but our Unique Selling Point is service and expertise. “It’s why we have a very loyal clientele who keep coming back to us.” Dacombes began life in Wimborne’s Corn Market, its home – along with West Street and The Square – for the next 95 years or so. Matt said: “They literally sold anything from bicycles to motorbikes. “We even have a 1945 receipt for a pram.

Andrew Diprose is the founder and editor of dorsetbiznews.co.uk, the No.1 business website in the county with more than 25,000 unique users “I think they felt that if there was a customer for it then they’d sell it.” After the advent of television in the 1950s, Dacombes began to rent and sell television sets. Matt’s dad, John, a TV engineer, and his mum, Carole, joined the business in the mid 1990s, becoming Directors of the newlynamed Dacombe & Renaut Limited in 2000. Matt, who attended Bournemouth’s Portchester School before going to

college and becoming a service engineer, was appointed a director the following year. John, 76, and Carole, 74, still help out in the business. Five years ago Dacombes moved to its current 4,500sq ft store in Leigh Road, Wimborne, formerly the home of Brights of Nettlebed. The relocation allowed Dacombes to expand its range even further, showcasing the latest in home entertainment and domestic appliances. Matt, 50, said: “We were looking to create a destination store, using both levels to full advantage. “The ground floor is laid out into the key areas of the home to showcase kitchens, a TV and audiovisual lounge area, a section for white goods and everything else electrical. “The upper floor is used for storage and offices and also our home cinema room which was opened in 2019.

“For the first time we were also able to offer a bespoke fitted kitchen service. “The new kitchen area saw us introduce made to measure kitchens in association with MK Interiors. “It’s worked incredibly well and we work very closely with Sean Kehoe and Pete Marzetti ,of MK Interiors, who are on site to design and create bespoke solutions.” Dacombes now employs 11 people, including four installers. Apart from its Leigh Road shop, the business has also bought a 4,500sq ft warehouse on the outskirts of Wimborne which is used for appliance storage. The past two decades have seen nothing short of a revolution in home entertainment. Matt, whose son, Jonathan, helps out in the shop during holidays, said one of the biggest changes had been the advent of flat screen LCD TVs.

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 51

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

with dorsetbiznews.co.uk

really something to shout about

STAYING PUT: Top, Matt and John Renaut and the showroom. From left, ready to help you, the store front, and Matt and Julie Gray with their recent awards

Pictures: DORSET BIZ NEWS

He said: “They’ve freed up living space, especially as they can be mounted easily on walls. “Ten or so years ago most of the TVs we sold had screens of between 24 and 28 inches but now, typically, it’s at least twice that. “You can now get 85-inch and even 92-inch screens. “Home cinema and multimedia rooms continue to be very popular. “The Pandemic has made people who may have a spare room, or even garage,

consider a conversion. “We can do it all or else provide specific packages such as a projector, screen and speakers for £5,600.” In December, Dacombes saw off stiff competition at the ERT Awards to be named Best Independent Consumer Electronics Retailer (Small). It was the third time in three years that the business won the category. Julie Gray, who has worked for Dacombes for six years and is the only woman on the sales team, also scooped the

Sales Excellence Award. Matt said: “It was a great achievement and was on top of the many awards we’ve won over the years.” A proud member of Retra (Radio, Electrical and Television Retailers’ Association), the Euronics retail group and Cedia (Custom Electronics Design and Installation Association), Matt said Dacombes would be strengthening even further its community links in 2022. He said: “Five Loaves Community Bakery, a pop-

up and not for profit bakery, hold monthly bakes in our kitchen area and we’ve adopted Lewis-Manning Hospice Care as our charity for this year. “We are also one of the sponsors of the Wimborne Folk Festival and work closely with Wimborne BID and Wimborne Chamber of Trade & Commerce. “I feel very proud about our centenary. “It’s really something to shout about – and we will!”

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

52 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Business

Board business is proving a belly good idea indeed by Andrew Diprose They’ve been well and truly bitten by the business bug. Former soldier Russ Ritchie-Haydn had already demonstrated his entrepreneurial flair by retraining as a sports massage therapist and launching RH Sports Massage in August 2019. Despite everything the Pandemic and its lockdowns threw at him the business continues to thrive, in no small part due to second massage therapist, Vic Walls, who joined last year. Now the 33-year-old has successfully started a second business – Fat Buoy Bellyboards – making and selling wooden sustainable boards for bodysurfing. Meanwhile, not to be outdone, his wife, Morgan, is about to celebrate the first birthday of her own business, Muthas Makes. She creates keepsakes and

events décor out of acrylic and birch. The venture started on the dining room table at the couple’s Christchurch home. Morgan, 31, has now achieved more than 825 sales on Etsy with a number of her items either former, or current, bestsellers on the global online marketplace. Her goods, and service, are rated five star. Fat Buoy Bellyboards officially took to the water last November and bridges the gap between bodysurfing and bodyboarding. Handmade out of plywood they’re hand-painted by Russ with custom laser engraving. Prices start from £65 for a full-size board and £45 for a half size. Russ, a former infantryman who served six years in the British Army, said: “There is a huge focus right now on getting away from plastics. “These wooden alternatives

are making a big resurgence. “They have their origins in the 1940s when people had very little money and made these simple boards for bodysurfing “They’re very accessible and suitable for all ages and abilities.” The boards are available direct from Russ or through stockists such as HUX Customs in Poole. Russ said: “I was looking at other avenues of business as I don’t want to be too reliant on one. “There’s a lot of pressure if you have a single business and I wanted to spread the load. “We’ve already sold dozens of the boards which are completely custom-made. “It’s going surprisingly well and I have a number of plans for the future.” Russ and Morgan have a oneyear-old son, Gunnar. His birth prompted Morgan to design one of her best-sellers for Muthas Makes – a ‘baby

on board’ sign. She’s now invested £3,500 in a laser engraver, also used by Russ for Fat Buoy Bellyboards, and taken studio space at BizSpace in Christchurch. Morgan is looking to branch out into wedding décor as well as working on other ideas to grow the business. She said: “I love being creative and this fits in perfectly with trying to achieve a work/life balance.” Russ added: “Fat Buoy Bellboards has got off to a surprisingly good start. “You can pay a lot more than we’re charging for a bellyboard. “I reckon we’re very good value for a totally individual product. I think there’s lots of potential for the future.” Fat Buoy Bellyboards is on Facebook and Instagram. Muthas Makes is on Etsy, Facebook and Instagram.

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 53

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

with dorsetbiznews.co.uk

The New Stour & Avon It’s fortnightly and it’s FREE! Pick up your copy here... ALDERHOLT Wolvercroft Garden Centre Co-op Southern ASHLEY WOOD Caravan Park Golf Course

WELCOME: Paul O’Connell and Victoria McIntyre

Physio Victoria is welcomed at clinic Family-run clinic Bridge Health & Wellbeing in Christchurch has welcomed experienced physiotherapist Victoria McIntyre to its team. Originally from Scotland, Victoria has a strong football background. Before moving to England, she spent five years at Hamilton Academical Football Club, rising to Head of Physiotherapy. Over the past five years, Victoria has been a physiotherapist at AFC Bournemouth and Arsenal FC and lectured at Solent University. She is a committee member of the Football Medicine & Performance Association. Paul O’Connell, co-founder and physiotherapist at Bridge Health & Wellbeing, said:

“We’re delighted to welcome Victoria to our team. “She brings a real wealth of knowledge to our clinic. “Victoria can treat all musculoskeletal issues but has a special interest in breathing and its effect on performance. “Her football expertise will be useful to the players from Weymouth Football Club that will be visiting us for treatment as part of our health and wellbeing partnership.” Bridge Health & Wellbeing offers physiotherapy, chiropractic treatment, sports massage and rehabilitation services, expert Pilates and yoga classes and state-of-theart gym facilities all under one roof at its Christchurch clinic.

High Mead Farm Ferndown Library FORDINGBRIDGE Londis Petrol Station FURZEHILL Village Stores

THREE LEGGED CROSS Woolsbridge Farm Feeds Hillier Garden Centre Londis

VERWOOD Verwood Heritage GUSSAGE ALL SAINTS Centre BROADSTONE Phone Box Candy Chocs Verwood Library M & S Food Hall GUSSAGE ST MICHAEL Verwood Pet Supplies Tesco Express Andrews Butchers Edward ARG Works Café Gardenia Co -op Southern Broadstone Library HINTON MARTEL Tesco Express Phone Box BROOM HILL WEST MOORS Stewarts Garden Centre HORTON Spar/Post Office Horton Inn BEAR CROSS Webbs Butchers Co-op Southern LYTCHETT MATRAVERS Library Library BLANDFORD Plants Direct WEST PARLEY Damory Garage Tescos Basket and Blooms James Newsagent In Excess Post Office LYTCHETT MINSTER Lidl Courtyard Craft Centre WIMBORNE Bartletts County Wise MERLEY McColls Spar Shop Allendale House Gorge Café T & S News Morrisons PAMPHILL Co-op Petrol Station Farm Shop CANFORD MAGNA Southern Canford Magna Garden RINGWOOD Keating Butchers Centre WH Smith Greyfriars Community Hi Tec Solutions Centre Allendale Centre Hearns CHARLTON MARSHALL Lunns of Ringwood WH Smith Green Man Parish Rooms Crow Farm shop Wimborne Minster McColls CHRISTCHURCH Porch Texaco Petrol Station Library Waitrose In Excess Regent Centre Coach & Horses Tesco V&A Store COLEHILL Tourist Information/ SANDLEHEATH Co-op Musuem Sandleheath Village One Stop Fair Ground Fair Trade Stores Colehill Library Shop St Michaels Church Hall SHAPWICK Davids Shirley CORFE MULLEN Gullivers Book Shop Naked Cross Nurseries Spar SPETISBURY Co-op Fluffetts Farm Village Hall Box Candy’s Farm Shop Wimborne Market Clampets Farm Library Walford Mill STAPEHILL Dacombes CRANBORNE Spar WOW Fitness Cranborne Stores Wimborne Garden Wimborne Library Centre Wimborne Community CRITCHEL Centre Bus Shelter STURMINSTER MARSHALL EDMONDSHAM WIMBORNE ST GILES Nisa Local Bus Shelter Post Office Vines Close Farm Shop FERNDOWN TARRANT KEYNESTON WITCHAMPTON McColls Club/Shop Bus Shelter Spar Ferndown Post Office TARRANT WOODLANDS Iceland LAUNCESTON The Egg Shed Sams Newsagent The Shed Hearns Estate Agent STANBRIDGE Hungry One TARRANT RAWSTON M & S Food Hall Cart Shed Aunt Fannys Farm Shop

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

54 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Business Advertising Feature

WHY IT’S TIME TO REVIEW YOUR CASH SAVINGS AND ISAs Dorset financial expert, Peter Harding explains why, particularly with inflation running high, it’s more important than ever to get the most out of your personal savings allowances by 5th April. We all need to know that we have cash to hand in case something unexpected happens. Many of us have a combination of cash savings and Cash ISAs. If you’ve had a Cash ISA for more than five years, the tax year deadline is the time to review how well your cash savings are performing.

Low saving rates Everyone has an annual Personal Savings Allowance. Your Personal Savings Allowance means basic-rate taxpayers can earn £1,000 tax free interest on cash accounts per year. High-rate taxpayers can only earn £500. With interest rates at their current levels, a basic-rate taxpayer can hold around £150,000* in a nonISA account before they have to pay any tax on their interest. (*Based on the current highest rate of interest for an easy access account is 0.67% – Moneyfacts, Nov 2021.)

Keeping up with Inflation However, if the returns on your Cash ISA savings aren’t keeping up with inflation, then your spending power is reducing. With interest rates at record lows, despite the recent rise, cash ISAs may not make the returns that a Stocks and Shares ISA could in the longer-term. It’s another reason to consider whether a Cash ISA is the right place to save for longer term life goals. When looking at ways to make your savings and investments less taxing, it’s always useful to get some expert help and guidance.

To receive a complimentary guide covering wealth management, retirement planning or inheritance tax planning, contact Peter Harding Wealth Management on 01202 830730 or email peterhardingwm@sjpp.co.uk. Peter Harding Wealth Management is a trading name of Peter Harding Practice Ltd. The value of an ISA with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and may fall as well as rise. You may get back less than you invested. An investment in a Stocks & Shares ISA will not provide the security of capital associated with a Cash ISA. The favourable tax treatment of ISAs may be subject to changes in legislation in the future.

PHWM-ISA-TaxPlanning_220201-210x297mm_Layout 1 10/02/2022 09:52 Page 1

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 55

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

The time is ripe to get the most out of this years tax allowances... ...We’re Here to Help It’s a good idea to put as much into your ISAs as you can afford. But do this before 5th April 2022, because you can’t carry this allowance over from year to year.

If your ISA investments are part of your longer-term ﬁnancial planning, a Stocks and Shares ISA will make the most of the long-term tax beneﬁts on offer.

Our advice is – use it or lose it!

To ﬁnd out more, contact us today on:

• £620 billion is currently held in ISAs. * • Just over half (51%) held in Cash rather than a Stocks and Shares ISA. * • That’s over £315 billion of cash savings that isn’t working as hard as it could for you. *

Tel: 01747 855554 Email: peterhardingwm@sjpp.co.uk

(*Source: HMRC, Individual Savings Accounts statistics, June 2021)

The value of an ISA with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and may fall as well as rise. You may get back less than you invested. An investment in a Stocks and Shares ISA will not provide the same security of capital associated with a Cash ISA. The favourable tax treatment of ISAs may not be maintained in the future and is subject to changes in legislation.

Principal Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management The Partner Practice is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and Partner Practice are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives. Peter Harding Wealth Management is a trading name of Peter Harding Practice Ltd

56 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Recruitment

ADMIN OFFICER

SEMLEY CE VA PRIMARY SCHOOL

We are looking for a friendly, efficient and enthusiastic person to work alongside the School Business Manager in our busy school office. 22.5 hrs per week, term time only

Pay is Grade D - £9.81 per hour Working hours: Monday & Friday, 8:30am - 3:30pm Tuesday - Thursday: 8:30am - 12pm School office experience desirable but not essential as training will be provided. For further information and anapplication pack, please visit our website:

www.semley.wilts.sch.uk

Closing date for applications: Friday 11th March 2022 @ 12pm Interviews to be held on Friday 18th March 2022

Age Concern North Dorset Our charity, based in Sturminster Newton, seeks two Trustees to support its important work. You would need IT skills, a knowledge of Board procedure and an interest in helping the elderly in the local community. If you would like to know more about the organisation: see www.acnorthdorset.org.uk, phone 01258 475582, or drop in for an informal chat. Dianne Cooper. Chairman, ACND

GILLINGHAM SCHOOL, DORSET

Hardings Lane, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4QP Tel: 01747 833851 www.gillingham.dorset.sch.uk 11-19 Mixed Comprehensive - 1,700 on roll (350 in the Sixth Form)

Part-time GROUNDS PERSON (two days per week) £9.81 per hour

Gillingham School manages its own grounds maintenance and we welcome applications from candidates to work in a small team who are responsible for maintaining our school borders and grounds. This is an exciting opportunity for someone to ‘make their mark’ on our school environment. We are very proud of our grounds and we are looking for candidates who will share our passion for providing the best learning environment for the young people at our school. Relevant training will be provided for the successful candidate and you will be directed by our experienced Site Managers. Responsibilities to include: Mowing of pitches and grassed areas Maintenance of border areas Weeding and herbicide application Hedge trimming and cutting Preparation and marking up of sports pitches Please ring the above number or visit our website for an information pack and application form. Closing date: 4 March. We are committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and will require the disclosure of any criminal convictions.

Qualified Electricians required Immediate start for local and away work. Local work at national rates. Away work @ £20.00/hr minimum. Van Supplied.

Call: 07778298683

We are seeking 2 apprentices for our busy Agricultural, Equestrian, Garden Fencing Company. Covering Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire. Please go to our website www.perrettfencing.co.uk or call 01963 205050 for more details.

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 57

Recruitment DISPENSER MERE SURGERY, WILTSHIRE Minimum 20 hours per week We are looking to recruit an enthusiastic and motivated individual to join our dispensing team. The successful candidate will assist in the preparation of all aspects of dispensing, stock control, ordering and restocking of the dispensary. Ideally the candidate will hold an NVQ 2 Pharmacy Services qualification or equivalent and able to work Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, although these days may be subject to change. Flexibility for additional hours to cover holiday and other absences is essential. Training will be provided. To see the job description and person specification please visit the vacancies section on www.meresurgery.co.uk To apply please send a CV and covering letter to: Michele Mason, Practice Manager, Mere Surgery, Dark Lane, Mere, Wiltshire, BA12 6DT or alternatively email: michelemason@nhs.net Telephone: 01747 860001 Applications to be received by: 25 February 2022 Interview date: 1 March 2022

The New Blackmore Vale The New Blackmore Vale magazine has a fantastic opportunity for a

SENIOR EDITOR.

Our free fortnightly magazines are at the very heart of the communities we serve in Dorset and beyond and we are looking for an NCTJ-trained editor/journalist to lead our friendly and professional team. You will be a motivated person who likes to work within and for the local community, with a keen interest in issues and news relevant to the area. A good knowledge of our distribution areas is important. You will become the leader of The New Blackmore Vale, engaging with local people, telling their stories and supporting their voice through our pages, in print and online. We are expanding the family to other areas of Dorset & Wiltshire and you will also oversee the production of these titles. Our team already has many years of experience in regional publishing and we are looking for an editor to strengthen the team still further, and to build on the success and presence our titles have already achieved with exceptional support from our readers and advertisers. You will need a full current driving licence and be able to attend regular meetings in-office (Covid-19 allowing). If this is the sort of role that excites and energises you we want to hear from you at publisher@blackmorevale.net Salary, hours and whether you are home or office-based to be discussed at interview.

The New Stour & Avon The New Blackmore Vale

Experienced Groundworkers We are looking for experienced groundworkers to work with our Installation Teams on local Drainage & Civil Engineering projects. Experience in drainage installations including underground tanks and pipe laying, concreting, kerbing and many other varied works. You will work in teams, be conscientious and hard working. Good rates of pay, paid travel and uniform provided. You will be familiar with the operation of small plant and hold a full UK driving licence. You will be based at our Company Head Office in Dinton, Wiltshire. Please contact for an application pack:

Mrs Jules Simmons M J ABBOTT LTD

Bratch Lane, Dinton, Salisbury SP3 5EB Email: jules.simmons@mjabbott.co.uk www.mjabbott.co.uk MJ Abbott Ltd is an Equal Opportunities Employer

The New Blackmore Vale magazine has a fantastic opportunity for a

SUB-EDITOR

to join our successful team.

Our magazine is at the very heart of the community we serve and we are looking for someone with a journalist’s eye for accurate text editing, a good knowledge of media law, a creative flair for headline writing and page layout, with the ability to work well under pressure, sometimes to tight deadlines. Knowledge of InDesign is essential. You will be working with an experienced and friendly team immersed in regional publishing. Our local community is hugely supportive of The New Blackmore Vale and as passionate about the magazine as we are, and we seek a sub-editor to strengthen our already experienced and enthusiastic team to build on our successes. The role includes the opportunity to work from home, but you will need to be able to attend a monthly office meeting (Covid-19 allowing). If you are a talented, friendly and professional sub with a proven track record, we want to hear from you at publisher@blackmorevale.net

The New Stour & Avon

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

58 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Recruitment

JOIN THE LEADING COMMERCIAL LAUNDRY TEAM Since 1975, Johnsons Stalbridge has offered specialist linen hire and laundry services for hotels, kitchens and restaurants throughout the UK. Through our fine quality product selection and impeccable customer service, we have been able to stay at the forefront of the industry for the past four decades.

We’re recruiting for full-time and part-time Production Operatives across all three of our Dorset factories. Gillingham

We’re currently recruiting for full-time and part-time roles across our three factories at Milborne Port, Sturminster Newton and Shaftesbury.

Shaftesbury Milborne Port

Become part of the team as we strive forward, offering customers all the linen and laundry they require. We are recruiting for:

• Sorting • Wash House • Ironers • Packers • Vehicle Off-loaders/Loaders • Supervisors

Sherborne

Sturminster Newton

Yeovil

OUR THREE FACTORIES IN DORSET

Apply now at www.johnsons-stalbridge.com/careers

Blandford Forum

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 59

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Recruitment WOULD YOU AND YOUR PARTNER/BROTHER/ SISTER/FRIEND LIKE TO MAKE CHEESE or know someone that would? A fantastic opportunity has arisen for one or two people to be part of our team making the unique Dorset Blue Vinny Cheese, 4 days a week. Earlier starts with an earlier finish and competitive rates of pay. Must be physically fit and able to work within a small team. Full training will be given for these rewarding and unusual roles. For more information call 01963 23133 or email info@dorsetblue.co.uk

*Hair Stylist* Are you looking for a job that will encourage and push your creativity and skills? Situated in the heart of Yeovil, Salon on the Green is looking for friendly and bubbly stylists to expand our current team. Further training is provided as you attend Aveda courses. Type: Full time; Experience: ideally 4 Years; Hairdressing NVQ/ SVQ Level 2 preferred. For further information about the job role please email us with your CV and Covering Letter at mail@ salononthegreen.co.uk Gardener, available one day per week, south or west of Sherborne. Call Clive, 07709 092610

Groundsman required for 10 acre garden near Shaftesbury. 25 hours/week working under the direction of head gardener. Applicants must have mowing tractor, chainsaw, strimmer experience. Please contact James on 07393 835762

Driver required for multidrop deliveries, full or part-time based in Iwerne Minster. Call Julian Rood at Leopard Dairy on 01747 811188.

We require a pleasant lady to join our small team of carers enabling a young woman continue living in her own home in Castle Cary. Hours are Saturdays 2 pm until 7a.m, with sleepover in your own bedroom. Also if possible ditto for Sundays. If you could only manage one of these days, particularly Sunday or both days every fortnight we could consider. Ideally we would be looking for cover for annual leave as well. Salary £190 per shift and holiday pay entitlement Contact Elizabeth Cross 01963 350820

Grainstore and Silo Cleaning Technicians The cleaning of farm and commercial grain stores across Southern England. Full training and independent certification is given. Qualifications for you to keep. Contract period from MidApril to Mid-August. Working hours - MondayFriday 06.00-18.00; Saturday 06.00-14.00(if required) Excellent hourly base pay + end of contract bonus On site subsidised accommodation for the duration of the contract is available. Contact enquiries@ bwfeeds.com with a CV

MEETING PLACE Shaftesbury man 58 genuine honest but a little bit lonely wltm similar kind lady please message 07581 320432

Paul 75, Would like to meet a lady for socialising, Yeovil area. 07762 002778

M-Tech require a qualified Vehicle Technician/ MOT Tester to join our professional team working in first class premises. Full or part time position. Competitive salary offered. E-mail CV to Paul McMorran mtechfiles@ hotmail.com. 01747 858794 M-Tech, West Stour, Gillingham SP85RJ Chef wanted at Green Man, Kings Stag. Part-time/Full-time. Apply to jack.langmead@ stockgaylard.com Person required on dairy farm for relief milking, some GFW, 4 days a week, could suit parttime, Shaftesbury area Tel 07970 925507 Changeover cleaners required for glamping sites at Stock Gaylard Estate near Kings Stag. Mondays and Friday from 9.30am – 3pm, April-October. Good pay. Please contact Josie at josie@stockgaylard. com 01963 23511

Greenhaven landscapes Landscapers and labourers needed. We are looking for skilled landscapers and general labourers to join our team. A good knowledge of hard and soft landscaping along with a can do attitude required, drivers preferred but not essential. Long term positions within an establish local company. Previous applicants need not reapply. 07792 892999 info@ greenhavenlandscapes. co.uk Steel Erector /Cladder required. This is a full time position -experience preferred but not essential as training will be given to the right applicant. Involves the erecting and cladding of Industrial and Agricultural Buildings mostly in the Dorset area. Please contact John Guttridge 07860570258 or email info@ jdgstructuralsteel.co.uk”

Finance Administrator

We require a motivated, confident and pro-active person to join our busy finance team. You will work with the Billing Manager and Management Accountant to support the sales invoicing. If you can demonstrate the following skills and experience, we would like to hear from you: · Proficient systems user with experience of Microsoft Office and accounting software. · Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a pleasant telephone manner. · The ability to organise and prioritise tasks with attention to detail. · An enthusiastic team worker. · Hold a full UK driving licence. This is a full-time position based at our pleasant offices in Dinton. Competitive salary dependent on skills and experience. For an application pack please contact:

Mrs Jules Simmons M J ABBOTT LTD

Bratch Lane, Dinton, Salisbury SP3 5EB Email: jules.simmons@mjabbott.co.uk www.mjabbott.co.uk MJ Abbott Ltd is an Equal Opportunities Employer

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

60 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Recruitment Companion/occasional carer/able 80yrs lady/ live in/sunny house/ central Sherborne/own bedroom/bathroom/sitting room/ability to be good companion/converse. Contact:sarah@rydercar. com Tel:07961 394170

Farm worker required on dairy farm. Good remuneration. Call 07976 068115.

Experienced Dairy Person Required to milk 160 organic dairy cows Location: Wanstrow, BA4 3 bedroom house included onsite Wage based on experience Apply via email to accounts@ gilcombefarm.co.uk Or phone 01749813710 Our office is open Mon-Fri between 9-5

LABOURER REQUIRED. For established family-run building company. Experience preferable. Good pay/ conditions for the right person. 07970 660042

GILLINGHAM SCHOOL, DORSET

Hardings Lane, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4QP Tel: 01747 833851 www.gillingham.dorset.sch.uk 11-19 Mixed Comprehensive - 1,760 on roll including 370 in the Sixth Form

TEACHER OF SCIENCE (Full Time)

Required from April or September 2022, Gillingham School in Dorset are looking for an enthusiastic, well-qualified TEACHER OF SCIENCE to join a large department in a modern 13 laboratory Science block which offers exceptional facilities. This is an opportunity for an ambitious candidate to play their part in the continued success of this thriving and dynamic department in a vibrant and supportive school. All three sciences are popular and successful at A-Level and opportunities are available for a suitably qualified candidate to teach at this level. The post is ideally suited for either a newly qualified teacher or for a teacher with experience looking for a fresh challenge. An excellent induction programme exists for new colleagues and opportunity for further career development is a real priority for our school. All colleagues who join our school are entitled to rich professional learning and ongoing professional development. Gillingham is an ambitious and happy school which offers excellent resources and outstanding facilities and a special, particular ethos both amongst pupils and staff. Closing date 4th March 2022. Please apply on line via the school web-site (https://www.gillingham-dorset.co.uk). We are committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and will require the disclosure of any criminal convictions. We look forward to receiving an application form from you.

Free ads MEN’S BLACK EVENING SUIT jacket 40R/L, adjustable trousers 34S, as new, clean, hardly worn, quality fine wool, £50 01747 825614. Pedestal basin. White. 2 tap holes. (Screwfix reference 65896). New in box. 570mmW 460mmD 840mmH. £30. (Blandford) 07823 481150. Hatteker rechargeable hair clippers. Model RFC-692. Six guide combs. Precision comb. Beard trim-mer. New, boxed. £25. (Blandford) 07823 481150.

Aiwa fm/mw/lw stereo radio/tape recorder with detachable speakers and Panasonic VHS record-er/ player, both with tapes.£25 for both. 01747 811611. Oxford monster lock with 1.2m 14mm link chain covered vgc for motorcycle £50. YUKON 6x25x25 x100-100 spotting scope complete with case good condition £50 01747 812738. Two-seater dark green upholstered sofa with loose back and seat cushions £50 tel. 01258 817306.

Miele Cat/Dog Vaccum cleaner with the Power Head attachments Spares or repair £40 Contact 07970 568679. Tall slim Dark pine unit 4 Shelves Drawer at the bottom, would look nice painted can send photos £50 07970 568679. Free for collection. Upright piano. Good condition just needs tuning. Near Blandford 07543 679877. 2 AQUAROLL WATER CARRIERS £25 each buyer collect. CARAVAN ROOF COVER £25.00. Fits Bailey Phoenix

Buyer collects. Royal Chef Camp Kitchen stand and Larder ex. condition, buyer collects £45.00 Tel 01747 828820. Antique pine double bed frame. Very good condition. £40. No mattress. Currently disassembled. Tel: 07597 964585. Ornamental Bow top metal gate 2’8 x 6’ approx £45 Tel 01258 452118. JOIE EVERY STAGE CAR SEAT Birth to 36kg, universal fitting, vgc used only for visiting grandchild. £50 01747 873138.

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 61

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Sport

Send your sports news to newsdesk@stourandavon.net

Ioan beaming after win Ioan Morosanu, pictured right, showed both skill and speed during the latest outing of the Fly Fishers, writes Gordon Wray. The club visited Chiphall Trout Lake near Fareham on a bitterly cold February day. The fish were deep down and it needed an intermediate line to reach them, a fact ignored by some anglers who really struggled to tempt the fish. Not the case for Ioan, who bagged up in smart style early on with a weight of 10lb 8oz. It wasn’t until late afternoon that the fish switched on and most anglers saw some real action from the hard-fighting rainbow trout that Chiphall is known for.

Kids team up with AFC

The fish fell to a variety of both lures and imitative patterns with Gary Austin taking the prize for the biggest rainbow at 3lb 2oz. Well done both anglers.

SUNRISE SERVICE & MOT CENTRE

AFC Bournemouth Community Sports Trust teamed up with NHS staff to run training sessions for pupils as part of Children’s Mental Health Week. Bournemouth-based King’s Park Academy and Oak Academy students got the chance to play football drills and games, learning new skills while working in a team. The sessions were devised with Dorset HealthCare’s Mental Health

Support in Schools Teams service and centred around the theme of the week: Growing Together.Later, pupils chatted with AFC Bournemouth female players Helen Corbin and Jade Bradley. The service has been running for just over two years and is currently working with schools including in Christchurch, Blandford, Gillingham, Wimborne and Ferndown.

Motoring

MOTS, SERVICING AND REPAIRS ON ALL VEHICLES UP TO 3.5 TONNES SUNRISE HORSEBOXES SERVICE & INCLUDING MOT CENTRE AND MOTORHOMES SUNRISE SERVICE & Bodyshop open for all repairs and restorations, MOTS, SERVICING AND REPAIRS from small scratches complete resprays, MOT to CENTRE ON ALL VEHICLES UP welcome. TO 3.5 TONNES insurance work INCLUDING HORSEBOXES MOTS, SERVICING MOTS – class 4,5AND andREPAIRS 7 AND MOTORHOMES ON ALL VEHICLES UP TO 3.5 TONNES Bodyshop open for all repairs and restorations, Diagnostics INCLUDING HORSEBOXES from small scratches to complete resprays, AND MOTORHOMES Air conditioning insurance work welcome. Bodyshop open for all repairs and restorations, MOTSscratches class 4, 4,5 and from small to5complete MOTs ––Valets class and 7 7 resprays, insurance work welcome. Diagnostics Courtesy Cars Diagnostics Conditioning MOTS –Air class 4,5 and 7 Air conditioning CollectionsCourtesy within a 5 mile radius Cars Diagnostics Valets Air conditioning Concessions for Pensioners, Concessions forCourtesy Pensioners, Forces Cars Armed Valets Armed Forces and Emergency Services and Emergency Services Collections within a 5 mile radius Courtesy Cars

Concessions for Pensioners, Forces Collections within a 5Armed mile radius and Emergency Services Concessions for Pensioners, Armed Forces and Emergency Services

DORSET’S PREMIER COMMERCIAL VEHICLE SERVICE

Full dealer service for all makes of commercial vehicle Brake testing Tachograph service MOT preparation etc.

ETS TRUCK&VAN 15B Sunrise Business Park, Higher Shaftesbury Road 15B Sunrise Business Park, Higher Shaftesbury Road Blandford DT11 8ST 15B Sunrise Business Park, Higher Shaftesbury Road Blandford DT11 8ST8ST Blandford DT11 Tel: 01258 459798 Tel: 01258 459798 Tel: 01258 459798 Email sunriseservicecentre@hotmail.com Email sunriseservicecentre@hotmail.com Email sunriseservicecentre@hotmail.com www.sunriseserviceandmotcentre.com www.sunriseserviceandmotcentre.com www.sunriseserviceandmotcentre.com

Shaftesbury Lane, Blandford, Dorset DT11 7FB Tel: 01258 480404 Email: blandford@etstrucks.co.uk 6 Witney Rd, Nuffield Industrial Estate, Poole BH17 0GH Tel: 01202 669339 Email: service@etstrucks.co.uk

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

62 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Motoring

NEW & APPROVED USED SALES

SERVICE & MOT TESTS

MOTABILITY SCHEME

£500 DISCOUNT VOUCHER*

hendynissan.co.uk

Hendy Nissan Bournemouth 514 Wallisdown Road, Bournemouth, Dorset BH11 8PT 01202 031 811

*To receive £500 discount off the cash price of your desired vehicle or finance agreement, bring this advert in to our showroom or reference over phone. Not valid on vehicle services or MOTs. Not valid on Motability Scheme.

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 63

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Motoring

More accessibility at EV charging posts Electric vehicle charging posts need to be more accessible for the one in five people with disabilities, according to the AA. The call is supported by the vast majority of the 17,302 drivers who responded to an AA Yonder survey last year. 73% say charge post spaces should be wheelchair friendly 79% say charge post design should consider users with limited mobility and/or physical disabilities. Currently almost one in 10 new cars in the UK are bought on behalf of disabled people. The Motability Scheme, overseen by the Motability charity, has enabled millions of disabled people to lease a car and enjoy the freedom of mobility. With the ban on the sale of new petrol or diesel cars just eight years away

1995 Range Rover HSE Auto Estate 4.6 petrol No MOT £1.275 ONO Spares or Repairs - Tel 01722 742072 2005 Peugeot HDiSW, excellent condition. 100% genuine sale. 56mpg loaded. Superb MOT history. 133,000. Any test/ inspection. Readvertised due-to SIX no-shows. Excellent first/family car. LV55EYO. Tom 07771961219

it is essential that charging infrastructure is accessible for all drivers. Motability has been working on this issue for many months now in conjunction with fellow disability charity Designability, the British Standards Institution (BSI) and the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV). This work will result in national standards that set a minimum level of accessibility for electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

CAR SALES

Mitsubishi L200 4 track manual, 2005, 4 brand new tyres, new MOT, service history, new cambelt, reversing camera, well maintained, 62,000 miles only, 2 owners from new, 1 or 2 little dents, very good truck for its year, £3750 ONO Tel 07856 243102 53 Freelander TD4 3 Door 4x4. 145,000 miles, MOT till Oct 22. £950. 07740103924

We buy low mileage cars with service history

07900 694489 01202 891693

Johnbenns2@outlook.com

01747 854789 www.crewscars.co.uk

Five Square Motors (Bosch Garage) Salisbury Road (A30) Shaftesbury SP7 8BU

2013 (63) Audi A3 1.4TFSi SE 3dr. 122bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, 1 owner, only 19,900 miles, sat nav, hill start assist, bluetooth, £30 a year road tax, 53mpg, full history, cambelt replaced, only 19,900 miles ...................................................£10650

2013 (13) Mini Hatch 1.6 Cooper Sport Chili 3dr. 122bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, air conditioning, alloys, auto activation lights & wipers, hill start assist, bluetooth, 92,100 miles .......................................................................................£6250

2011 (11) Audi A3 Cabriolet 1.6TDi Technik Convertible 2dr. 105bhp, diesel, 5 speed manual gearbox, £30 yearly road tax, upto 65mpg economy, electric folding soft top roof, parking sensors, air con, alloys, 101,800 miles ...........................................£5650

2015 (64) Nissan Juke 1.2 Tekna SUV 5dr. 115bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, heated leather seats, sat nav, touch screen, reverse camera, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, bluetooth, great looking small SUV with low mileage, great performance, upto 50mpg economy, only 40,800 miles ............................................................£9650

2019 (68) Ford Fiesta 1.0T EcoBoost Titanium 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, sat nav, parking sensors, reverse camera, sign recognition, lane keeping aid, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, bluetooth, hill start assist, touch screen, award winning engine, upto 58 mpg, 23,800 miles .....................................................£13850 2006 (56) Ford Mondeo 2 .0TDCi LX 5dr. 115bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, 1 owner & only 14,300 miles, just had full service & MOT, cruise control, you could not find another, 14,300 miles....................................................................................£4650 2019 (19) Hyundai i30N 2.0T-GDi N-Performance 5dr. 275bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, warranty until March 2024, heated partial leather seats, heated steering wheel, sat nav, parking sensors, reverse camera, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, bluetooth, hill start assist, lane keeping aid, pre-collision assist, sign recognition, 17,500 miles.................................................................................. £25250 2017 (66) Jaguar XF 2.0TD R-Sport Automatic 4dr. 180bhp, diesel, 8 speed automatic gearbox, £30 yearly road tax & upto 65mpg, touch screen, sat nav, leather, heated seats, heated steering wheel, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, lane keeping aid, sign recognition, parking sensors, bluetooth, stunning car, 121,100 miles, full Jaguar history ...................................................................................................£13450

2018 (18) Nissan Navara 2.3DCi Tekna Double Cab 4x4 Pickup 4dr. 190bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, sat nav, leather, heated seats, reverse camera, park sensors, rear canopy, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, touch screen, bluetooth, hill descent control, 2 / 4 wheel drive, high & low ratios, 129,500 miles ...£15000 + VAT = £18000 2016 (16) Volkswagen Polo 1.2TSi Match 3dr. 90bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, bluetooth, touch screen, front & rear parking sensors, cruise control, hill start assist, £20 a year road tax, upto 60mpg economy, 50,900 miles.........................£9750 2015 (15) Volkswagen Golf 1.4TSi S 5dr. 122bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, touch screen, bluetooth, hill start assist, just had cambelt replaced, 82,300 miles...£8250 2014 (14) Volkswagen Caddy 1.6TDi C20 Startline Van. 102bhp, diesel, 5 speed manual gearbox, great value van with NO VAT to pay, 120,900 miles ..................£6950

WANTED

We buy cars for cash so if you have something to sell, give us a call, we pay good prices & consider most vehicles.

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

64 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Pets

Do it for our Delores Over recent months, we have seen a huge increase in calls for help with rehoming of rabbits and guinea pigs. We try to help everybody who needs our assistance and currently, we have more than 20 fluffy little friends for whom we are seeking new homes. Details of our small animals are on our website, but let us tell you about a few of them... Delores, pictured here, is a two-year-old female lop. Delores lives with Chewie and Casper. The two boys have been neutered but we do not know if Delores has been. They would all love to stay together as a group, but we would consider splitting them provided that the rabbit leaving was to go to a home as a companion to another rabbit. Piggles and Cocoa are two male guinea pigs. Piggles is 18

Dachshund puppies (miniature smooth haired) Silver dapple. Only boys available - home bred KC reg. Tel 01373 462716 Reliable DOG WALKER available.Wet weather ok. Ferndown and local areas. References. Please call Susan, 07946596229

months old and Cocoa is 12 months old. They are living together and are very friendly and cuddly. Piggles and Cocoa are used to children. They are lively boys. If you are able to offer Delores or any of her lovely friends a forever home or a foster home, please contact our office. Waggy Tails Rescue are in need of more foster homes. If you are at home most of the time, have a secure garden and

experienced with dogs then please give us a ring and discuss fostering for us. It is a very rewarding We also find homes for other small furries that may be in our care, so to find out more you can contact us on the number below. For more information, call 01202 875000 or waggytails. org.uk. Donations can be sent to: Waggy Tails Rescue Helen’s House 143 Magna Road Wimborne BH21 3AW

PET CARE. Going on holiday and worried about care of your pet? Dogs cared for in my own home. Secure garden, plenty of TLC , daily walks with my own two friendly Labradors. Tel: Caroline 07833746027/ 01747685414 Three adorable black kittens 01747 828736 Guinea pigs, all colours, rough & smooth coated, males £10 females £20 to good homes Tel 01963 458199

WOLFIES Raw & More Dog Food Supplies OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!

1: Healthier teeth & gums 3: Boosted immune system

2: Healthier skin & coat 4: Improved digestion

5: Increased energy & vitality

Feeding Raw gives Them More!

Active/Working Dog Food Wolfies stock a variety of good quality raw food and slow steam-cooked food and treats etc, minces starting from as little as £1.15 treats starting from £0.45p

WOLFIES Raw & More Dog Food Supplies 33 Banbury Road, Nuffield Industrial Estate, Poole BH17 0GA

01202 675410 www.wolfiesrawandmore.com

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 65

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

High blood pressure in cats Did you know that owning a cat can reduce the risk of a stroke or heart attack by up to a third? It’s thought to be in part, because it helps relieve stress and lower blood pressure. So, why not return the favour and take your cat to the vets for a routine blood pressure check? Not only is high blood pressure a silent killer in cats, but it can also give warning signs of other diseases your cat might be at risk of as they get older. Just like people, high blood pressure is an increased risk as cats get older. Approximately one in five cats from nine years old are at risk of suffering from high blood pressure The latest recommendations are that all cats aged seven or over should have their blood pressure checked at least once a year, even if they seem well. This is because there are often no obvious external signs of high blood pressure and it only reveals itself when damage to organs such as the eyes, kidneys, heart and brain has occurred. Regular screening is the best way to spot high blood pressure early.

Blood pressure screening doesn’t hurt and only takes a few minutes. Just like in people, an inflatable cuff is placed around the tail or leg to take the measurement. Most cats are generally good for this and are quite relaxed during the process. Your vet can carry this out during your cat’s annual health check when they’re having their vaccine booster.

Conditions such as kidney disease or an overactive thyroid can also increase the risk of high blood pressure Hypertension can be managed with medication and the earlier it’s started, the less chance high blood pressure has to cause harm. Our advice - don’t let hypertension stay hidden in your cat, book an appointment with your vet for a check-up.

The right veterinary care isn't just about treating your pet It's about looking after you too

It's not just about the latest appointment It's about being there for the journey

Vetsmiths 14 West Borough Wimborne BH21 1NF 01202 119988 vetsmiths.co.uk

Like and follow us

@vetsmiths

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

66 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Local Services HOME IMPROVEMENTS

EVANS ABOVE Tree Care Ltd

All aspects of tree care, hedge maintenance and stump removal

01258 840044 07763 018101 www.evansabovetreecare.co.uk

ABBEY DRAINAGE No call out charge

Unblocking drains Sinks Toilets Gutters and downpipes Investigating nasty smells High pressure jetting CCTV Surveys No-dig relining

Call 01202 748523 | Mobile 07587 238563

checkatrade.com

Fibre Cement, Boxed Profile and Corrugated Metal Roofing Sheets available from our depots in Yeovil and Dorchester. www.roofinggear.co.uk YEOVL DEPOT 01935 700425

DORCHESTER DEPOT 01305 257828

sales@roofinggear.co.uk

dorchester@roofinggear.co.uk

NE PLUMBING For all your plumbing needs

17 South Rd, Corfe Mullen, Wimborne BH21 3HY

24/7 No Call Out Fee

01202 699912 07414 897888

Nick Evans

www.neplumbing | email neplumbing@hotmail.co.uk WANTED Dave buys all types of tools. Call 01935 428975 or 07980 036250

Need an Appliance Spare Part? We have refurbished, recycled and upcycled appliance spare parts for most makes and models. We will happily help you find the right part, for the right repair, at the right price. Appliances We Repair: Washing Machines • Tumble Dryers Washer Dryers • Dishwashers Fridge Freezers • Fridges Freezers • Ovens Cookers • Extractor Hoods So… If your washing machine has developed a fault or your fridge freezer isn’t keeping your food as cold as it should, we would be more than happy to return your appliance to full working order. Tel: 07968 213 190 Email: info@thesasltd.com This is all available on the website www.thesasltd.com

heating and plumbing services

01202 612179

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 67

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Local Services GARDENING & LANDSCAPING A&C GARDENING & LANDSCAPING Tree & Hedgework Turf – Fencing Slab & Brickwork Pointing Decorative Stone Jet washing Fully insured Free estimates 01202 697749 07761 531248 Chorleyj31@gmail.com

WASTE CLEARANCE Commercial & Domestic House Clearance Loft Clearance & Garden Clearance Single Items to full loads Reg Waste Carrier Fully insured Free estimates 01202 697749 07761 531248 Chorleyj31@gmail.com

MINI DIGGER

FOR HIRE with experienced operator

Garden and Driveway 30 years Experience Fully insured

Call Mike Card Mobile: 07892787871

www.msclandscapes.co.uk

THE LOG SHED Seasoned Hardwood Cut and Split, Half or Full Load, Free Delivery

01202 914182 07947 093681 07754 876575

PLUMBING & HEATING

LOGS R US 1 ton pick up loads of logs £90, double load £150 Dumpy bag £60 All hardwood 07790 404593 01258 818081

BOILER CALL

PAINTING AND DECORATING Professional and reliable FREE Estimates Call Mr Hunt 01202 582 724 07599 900 489

Service - Repair Mobile

07710 534759 Office

01202 603357

COMPUTERS & PHONES

HEDGE & LAWN ops By Mathew Vincent Friendly reliable service Fully insured Please contact Matt on 07539 981 510 or enquiries@hedge-lawnops.co.uk www.hedge-lawnops.co.uk

COMPUTER PROBLEMS? Call Nic Spiers

01202 814081

Work can be carried out at your home or business (no call out charge) or in our workshops. Apple Mac & Windows Laptops Towers Monitors Gaming PCs and laptops Printers Phone Lines New Equipment and Repairs Broadband and Networking iPhone & iPad SET-UP ANTI VIRUS AND INTERNET SECURITY All things computers (well almost!)

Waste & House Clearance

HOUSE CLEARANCE Plus Sheds, Attics, Garages & Gardens Quality Items Offset Registered Waste Carrier

Tel: 01202 001614 or 07853 275379 enquiries@back2market.com

SPIERSEstablished ELECTRONICS 1989

Call 01202 814081 or email sales@spiers-electronics.co.uk 3 Woodlinken Drive, Verwood, Dorset BH31 6BN

www.

.com

ROOFING

ROOFING SYSTEMS & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

An established family business for over 100 years

Local Authority & National Trust Contractor

Flat Roofing Specialists with High Performance Polyester and Elastomeric Systems All Other Roofing Repairs Carried Out Insurance Backed Guarantees Roofing tel: 01202 882777 www.davidsroofing.co.uk info@davididsofwimborne.co.uk

Want to advertise? jane.toomer@ blackmorevale.net

• Felt Roofing Specialist • Tiling, Slating and UPVC • Velux Windows • No Job Too Small • Insurance Work • Leadwork Friendly Service Free Estimates Mobile 07973 248319 scott@scottmilesroofing.co.uk

BOURNEMOUTH ROOFING CO. LTD Roofing Specialist for over 40 years New Roofs and All small Repairs.

07774 926 300 | 01202 876535 david@bournemouthroofing.com www.bournemouthroofing.com We accept all major credit/debit cards

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

68 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

Property

Five top tips to help sell your property

by Lorraine Gibson In June last year, the cost of an average home in Dorset had shot up by more than 10 per cent on the year before to £320,000. That’s the fastest increase in a decade. With housing stock in the county low, you could say it’s a buyers’ market, however if you’re selling, there are steps you can take to get the best price possible. Most house hunters decide whether to buy or not within about seven seconds of entering your home, so here are the top five easy things you can do to

ensure it’s love at first sight. Declutter. We know it helps, but we don’t do it. Basically, if it’s in the way, either give it away or store it away. Clear surfaces, unfussy walkways and tidy rooms give a sense of space. Clean. It’s basic but view your house through the eyes of a clean-freak. A quick clean of doors and surrounds takes minutes. Remove marks from furniture or carpets - a throw or rug will cover a multitude of sins. Make taps and cookers shine. Tidy your bed. It’s amazing how many property details show images of

crumpled duvets. Get all boutique-hotel about it and smooth those covers and fluff those pillows. Lived-in vibes. Now that it’s clean, make it look it look more home than show-home with a vase of fresh flowers, a classy painting or a bowl of colourful fruit. Banish bad odours. Scented candles and fresh coffee are all very well but pets can pong. Use the least whiffy food on viewing days. Add diffusers and if possible, open windows and put litter trays outside well before.

Puzzle solutions (from pages 14-15) Sudoku

8 2 3 5 1 7 6 9 4

7 5 6 2 9 4 1 3 8

4 1 9 3 6 8 2 7 5

3 6 8 7 4 9 5 2 1

5 7 4 6 2 1 9 8 3

2 9 1 8 5 3 4 6 7

1 8 2 4 7 6 3 5 9

9 3 5 1 8 2 7 4 6

Crossword

6 4 7 9 3 5 8 1 2

Brain chain 29

12+

16+

1 2 3 6 4

4 4

3 7

14+

19+

2 9

22+

18×

6 18×

17+

7 1

3 1

45×

1 18+

33+

6 3÷

15+

2 5

19+

5 7+

4÷

4 13+

9×

9 17+

9 4÷

1512×

Brain chain (hard) 130

C I D I I I R O A C R A W A Y M H E A D O N I E C E L S I O N T P Y P E R

C A F E

T E R S E

Arrow words L A O B E L L R I N G

G P G A A S A S E R V E R E L E N D A I R S E C E N M H S T A D I R O I R D C O Z E E P L S T E W F U S

P S P A S B Y E

Jumbo 3D Sudoku

Killer Sudoku Pro 24+

S W O O P A I O R L D E R I G U E U Y S A G L A T I N I N L I S K N U C K L E A A D I G E S T H L L I U N I D I V I RESULT L N E E A N G O R A H

Any problems with these puzzles? Email newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net

6 4 5 8 1 9 2 2 3 5 8 3 7 5 9 9 8 6 2 1 7 1 7 8 3 6 4 2 2 4 5 1 3 9 7 6 4 5 6 2 3 6 7 7 4 8 9 3 8 3 3 1 9 9 6 5 4 9 4 1 8 9 1 6 4 5 8 3 4 1 5 2 7 1 6 6 4 5 2 3 2 9 1 7 8 2 4 8 1 2 8 7 6 5 9 1 5 7 2 4 6 9 5 9 2 7 3 3 4 8 8 1 2 6 7 6 9 1 7 3 1 4 8 9 5 7 5 3 4 6 7 3 8 3 3 6 4 5 2 6 5 2 6 5 8 4 7 9 2 3 4 7 8 2 9 1 5 1 1 8 5 3 2 8 9 1 8 9 7 5 1 2 6 4 3 2 3 4 1 5 3 6 7 9 1 7 5 7 4 6 9 8 7 9 4 9 6 7 1 8 4 2 3 5 8 4 3 1 25 8 6 6 2 87 9 8 9 6 5 4 3 9 5 2 1 2 1 4 6 4 7 6 1 3 8 9 2 3 7 5 7

120

126

RESULT

Cryptic crossword B E X S P L C O I A T S W A E S T C E

H A L F I T O L O T O B L I D U N C E P T S R T E M P O R I C A A N E X T E S I P R E S S O A O N L L A R S

N F O I G L A M E P R E T H I O C

A N T O I N G E N T S E A M M E R A I C I A

L S L L

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 69

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Property

Memb No: A101 REMOV ALS & STORAGE

We are a family run business since 1973, providing a service locally, nationally and internationally including a European service for full and part loads.

Local and National Removals Container Storage Packing Service All Full Time Operatives Personal Service Covid advance planning for your removal to keep you secure plus remote survey option

Country House Moves

European Removal

Containerised Storage

Standard House Moves

Small Moves

”

“Moving at the highest standard no job too big or too small Branches throughout the UK Blandford (01258) 453898

Dorchester (01305) 783795

Gillingham (01747) 828680

Shaftesbury (01747) 828680

Sherborne (01935) 433341

Warminster (01985) 215991

Wincanton (01963) 34065

Yeovil (01935) 433341

Head Office: 01963 34065 email: enquiries@armishaws.com www.armishaws.com

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

70 New Stour & Avon, February 25, 2022

FERNDOWN GUIDE PRICE £800,000 Beautifully finished and enlarged family home • Four double bedrooms • Sumptuously appointed bathroom & two shower rooms • 125ft x 60ft L-shaped southerly facing garden • Single garage and driveway • Approx. 750 metres from Ferndown centre

FERNDOWN £650,000 Modernised and extended detached bungalow • Three double bedrooms, two reception rooms • One bathroom, two en-suite shower rooms • Good sized private, corner plot • Detached single garage and parking • Approximately 600 metres from Ferndown centre

FERNDOWN GUIDE PRICE £600,000 Conveniently located family home • Four bedrooms • Two bath/shower rooms • 28ft Kitchen/dining room • 17ft lounge & conservatory • Integral garage

WEST PARLEY GUIDE PRICE £500,000 Deceptively spacious bungalow • Three bedrooms & two receptions • One bathroom, one shower room • Private 70ft west facing garden • 32ft Garage/workshop • 100 Metres from amenities

FERNDOWN OIEO £450,000 Modernised bungalow • Three double bedrooms • Family bathroom & en-suite • Open plan kitchen/dining room/lounge • Large 75ft rear garden • Single garage

BOURNEMOUTH GUIDE PRICE £375,000 Rarely available delightful cottage • Character features • 45ft Secluded rear garden • Direct pedestrian access onto Stour Valley Nature Reserve • Summer house as ideal home office

FERNDOWN £370,000 Impeccably presented semi-det home • Three double bedrooms • Cloakroom & family bathroom • Modern kitchen • 19ft Lounge/dining room • 35ft Rear garden & allocated parking

FERNDOWN GUIDE PRICE £365,000 Superbly positioned bungalow • Two bedrooms • 14ft Double glazed conservatory • 55ft Private garden • Single garage and driveway • No onward chain

Ferndown Off ice, 6 – 8 Victoria Road, Ferndown, BH22 9HZ 01202 890890 | ferndown@hearnes.com | www.hearnes.com

New Stour & Avon, February 25 2022 71

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

WIMBORNE TOWN CENTRE PRICE: £695,000 Three bedroom semi detached character home • Spacious sitting room with open fireplace • Well appointed kitchen • 100’ rear garden • Garage and off road parking •

WIMBORNE TOWN CENTRE PRICE £650,000 Grade II Listed three bedroom period home • Superb sitting/dining room • Master bedroom with en suite • Courtyard garden and off road parking • NO FORWARD CHAIN •

WIMBORNE TOWN CENTRE PRICE: £550,000 Three bedroom 1930’s detached family home • Garage and workshop • Two parking spaces at the rear • Enclosed south facing rear garden • Generous size sitting/dining room

WIMBORNE GUIDE PRICE: £450,000 Three bedroom end of terrace Victorian home • Sought after location • Cosy sitting room with wood burner • Superb kitchen/breakfast room • Off road parking

CORFE MULLEN PRICE: £425,000 Immaculate, spacious three/four bedroom townhouse • Private cul de sac location • Contemporary kitchen/diner • South west facing garden • Garage, workshop and off road parking

COLEHILL PRICE: OIEO £420,000 Three bedroom semi detached bungalow • Spacious accommodation • Sitting room with wood burner • Off road parking and large car port • Low maintenance rear garden

Wimborne off ice, 6 Cook Row, Wimborne, BH21 1LB 01202 842922 | wimborne@hearnes.com | www.hearnes.com

A home in the heart of Three Legged Cross

"My Mother has resided in Oakdene Care Home for several years now and like everyone with a loved one in a Care Home, it has been a very difficult time during the past year, however, I am so thankful that my Mother has been and is under the care of their amazing staff and management.” - Daughter of a Resident

WE OFFER SPECIALIST DEMENTIA, RESIDENTIAL AND RESPITE CARE.

The team at Oakdene are caring, experienced and dedicated to creating a warm and homely setting, while providing high levels of personalised care and comfort in a safe environment.

We are welcoming new residents.

G E T I N T O U C H T O DAY …

www.oakdenecare.co.uk | 01202 813722 | info@oakdenecare.co.uk

The New Stour & Avon Magazine

Articles inside

Education special

Recruitment

MPs’ Round-Up

Farming & Environment

Motoring