The New Stour & Avon - Issue 82

What’s inside this issue...

Cover: White Mill bridge, Sturminster Marshall

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Meet the team

Steve Belasco Editor newsdesk@ stourandavon.net

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

Mandy Bacchus Account manager amanda.bacchus@ blackmorevale.net Tel: 07714 289414

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

Faith Eckersall Reporter newsdesk@ stourandavon.net

Lorraine Gibson Reporter newsdesk@ stourandavon.net

Town high street to close for roadworks

Fordingbridge High Street will close next month for roadworks. From mid-June, the route will initially close for two weeks, before night closures come into force for a further three weeks. The work, part of Hampshire

Highways’ planned maintenance programme, will see the road resurfaced, including removal of the block paving in High St, from Bridge St to Normandy Way. It will be necessary to carry out works during the first two weeks

under a 24-hour continuous road closure, with working times between the hours of 7.30am and 6pm. The next three weeks of works will be between 8pm and 6am. Pedestrian access will be maintained at all times.

Plan for 11 affordable homes

A Corfe Mullen bungalow could be replaced with 11 affordable homes if plans are approved. A scheme has been submitted to Dorset Council by DHPC for permission to develop the site at 74 Wareham Road.

The scheme would see one-bed flats, two-bed houses and a threehouse terrace built on the site currently occupied by a detached bungalow.

‘There is a long rear garden with housing development positioned in backland areas, to the north of the site,’ the application states.

‘The site is within walking distance of community facilities to the north (consisting of a local convenience shop, church, community centre and a library).’ It said there are two bus stops near the property.

‘The proposed scheme creates a

carefully balanced and attractive proposal which will respect the pattern and layout of development in the vicinity and preserve the character, appearance and local distinctiveness of the area,’ the application added.

‘Good living conditions will be

provided for future occupiers and the amenities of neighbouring properties will be maintained.” For more details, and to comment on the scheme,go to dorsetcouncil.gov.uk and search for application reference P/ OUT/2024/02668.

Witness appeal

A front door was kicked and a window smashed at a Wimborne home in a ‘very distressing incident’.

Police are hunting for those responsible after an incident in East Borough at around midnight on Friday, May 17.

Police said the occupants of the address ‘heard their front door being kicked and a window at the property was smashed’.

PC Jim Perks said: “I am appealing to anyone who saw or heard suspicious activity to please come forward.”

Contact Dorset Police viadorset. police.uk, or by calling 101. They can also contact Crimestoppers at Crimestoppers-uk.org or Freephone 0800 555 111.

Views are sought

Women and girls are being asked to give their views in a survey to shape the work of NHS Dorset and partners in implementing the recommendations of the national Women’s Health Strategy. One proposal is to establish a Women’s Health Hub, a website for information, education, awareness and self-help. Give your views at survey monkey.com/r/Q7G89WM.

REDUCED TO CLEAR!

A bank holiday battle for Wimborne

Wimborne’s first ever summer of history got off to a thrilling start over the bank holiday weekend as hundreds of members of the English Civil War Society (ECWS) descended on the town to reenact The Battle for Wimborne.

The town was transported back to the 17th century with two exciting reenactment battles on Sunday and Monday. With the towers of the Minster in the background, the sounds of canons and musket fire rang out as foot soldiers and cavalry battled it out. The reenactment tells the story of how the ‘Wimbornites’, as they were called, hatched a plot that a Roundhead Officer in Poole would open the town gates in return for money. On the night the Wimbornites set off, the main gates were opened but not the inner ones. They came under heavy attack before being forced to flee with many casualties.

Throughout the weekend there were military parades, demonstrations of military manoeuvres and war drums. There was even a recreation of the riot in the Minster when Lord Shaftesbury, whose family still live at Wimborne St Giles, ordered musketeers to shoot down the citizens of Wimborne in the Church! Fortunately, the riot was quelled.

Weekend shoppers and visitors were also surprised to encounter characters from 17th century civilian life who showed off ancient skills such as hurdle making, leather working, apothecary and candle-making, along with playing old-fashioned instruments.

Wimborne resident Stephen Burden, a member of the ECWS for 50 years and now the Royalist Colonel General of Dorset, said: “The society loves to support towns throughout the country.

“This immersive type of event has never

been staged in Dorset. We couldn’t wish for a better backdrop than the beautiful, historic Wimborne Minster. The whole town has been captivated by exciting and spectacular displays. Everyone seems to have really enjoyed it and we are getting lots of people asking when we are coming back.”

Fiona Harwood, chairman of Wimborne BID said: “This has been such a successful event, which really brought the town to life over the weekend. More than 3,000 people turned out to witness the battles.

“It’s been tremendous fun to host the ECWS and Wimborne BID are delighted to have been part of it.”

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Hot stuff for charity walkers

Brave souls united at the LewisManning Hospice Care Fire Walk fundraiser, raising £13,000 for the charity.

Forty-four fire walkers took up the challenge and bravely walked barefoot over a bed of red-hot coals on the Green.

Participants included members of the public, corporate company teams and even a hospice patient! The Fire Walk was sponsored by local businesses, Katie Fox Estate Agents, Le Bateau and Howdens. Additional support was also received from Barratt Homes, Minuteman Press, Capital Barriers & Temporary Fencing Limited, Job Shop and Axent Workwear.

Hospice patient Brian, who is registered blind, said: “I’ve never done a fire walk before, so I was curious as it’s something different.

“People often say to me, ‘you can’t do things like that because you’re blind, but I like to do challenges. I was so happy to be able to do this for Lewis-Manning as they’ve helped me so much and brought so much enjoyment to my life. “It’s brilliant to be able to give something back as a thank-you for their invaluable support. I’ve raised over £300!” Area fundraiser India Turner said: “What an evening it was! “Huge respect to everyone who took part. There was a real celebratory, community feel to the event with everyone encouraging and supporting each other.”

World-class sounds

Poole’s Lighthouse Theatre is running a string of world-class, ground-breaking music and musicians in its Sherling Studio over the summer months.

Jazz, folk, roots, blues and recitals run alongside the venue’s monthly local bands’ showcase Live & Unheard, celebrating upcoming grass roots local music from the potential stars of tomorrow.

From Alexander O’Neal’s farewell tour on June 4, to Pride And Unheard on June 7 and music from the Lost Songs Of Scilly on June 20, there is something for everyone who appreciates great sounds. More details at lighthousepoole.co.uk.

D-Day events landing at Rec

As the UK approaches the 80th anniversary of the Operation Overlord Normandy landings, the D-Day Discovery Bus is making a visit to Fordingbridge Recreation Ground tomorrow, Saturday, June 1.

From 2pm-4pm visitors can step inside to learn about the New Forest’s preparations for the D-Day landings that took place eight decades ago. The bus features poster displays, short videos and fascinating oral histories recorded by local residents. Children can immerse themselves in the era by dressing up in period costumes and taking part in fun, handson activities – all free of charge with no need to book. Fordingbridge town will be recognising the 1944 military operation which helped end the Second World War with a commemorative event at the recreation ground from 8pm on that date, with performances by Sing Space Choir and Hyde Band with a beacon-lighting at 9.15pm.

Bundles of bunting created by crafty sew-&-sews

by Lorraine Gibson

Proving that one person’s waste can be another person’s treasure, a group of crafty crafters have transformed piles of scrap fabric into miles of beautiful bunting to brighten up their town.

Leading the project for Wimborne’s War on Waste was ‘Barbra the Bunting Queen’

whose crack team of up-cyclers created the impressive 1076-metrelong run of colourful pennants that now flutter around the main streets.

Barbra says: “Thank you to all those who donated fabric - to Wimborne’s Fair Trade Shop for collecting itand the town council for all their support.”

Concern over future of animal rescue charity

Waggy Tails has been rescuing animals for 30 years and we have outgrown our current premises.

We have been looking for a suitable property for several years to meet the growing demand for unwanted animals locally.

Two years ago we found an ideal property at Ashley Heath. It is a large site and has outbuildings suitable for different animals.

We have waited eight months for Dorset Council to consider our application, which was submitted following their pre app advice.

We have just been notified that the planning officer is going

to advise refusal. This is a cause of great concern to Waggy Tails Rescue’s future. As a small charity we are unable to consider the costs of going to appeal and losing this property will seriously limit the number of animals we can help in the future.

The local community has always been very supportive of Waggy Tails and we feel it is important that the public know how this setback will curtail our charitable work.

For more information please call me on 01202 875000.

Ginny Roberts Waggy Tails

Wedding show at church on time

St Michaels Church, in Church Hill, Verwood, is having a Wedding Festival day on Saturday, June 29, from 10am till 4pm.

The church will be displaying more than two dozen wedding dresses and various stalls will be in the church. Wedding albums and other wedding items will also be on display.

A raffle will be held, there will be music from various groups, a choir and band, throughout the day.

There will also be refreshments, including cakes, sandwiches and light lunches available.

Everyone will be most welcome.

Brian Cox Verwood

Giant Easter eggs prove a draw

Wimborne and Ferndown Lions Club have held our very popular annual draw, with giant Easter eggs as prizes, for 30 years now and in the process we have raised many thousands of pounds for various good causes. We are keen to thank our many loyal participating locations, (pubs, clubs, cafes, salons, etc)

Gardening club’s visit to Kew

The May meeting of Wimborne Gardening Club saw 50 members and friends on a coach outing to Kew Gardens. An enjoyable day was spent looking round the gardens and the weather kept fine.

Our thanks to Glenda, of our planning group for organising such an interesting day.

The June meeting, this Monday, June 3, will be at 6.30pm at Stewarts Nurseries at Broomhill. Join Martin Stewart, eighth generation MD, on his journey growing through today’s

technology changes and how Stewarts are rising to the challenge of modern techniques, including solar power and ground source pumps.

Full details of all activities can be found at wimbornegardeningclub. co.uk.

Please note that the late summer/ early autumn show will be in the Allendale Centre on Saturday, August 31, and NOT on Saturday, September 14.

Anthony Olive MBE

Wimborne

Make a bid for next WI meeting

Wimborne Minster WI’s speaker for June 17 will be Jan Keen and the subject is antiques.

We meet at St Catherine’s Church Hall, Lewens Lane, Wimborne.

Please arrive before 10.00am

so we can start promptly. Visitors will be made very welcome.

For further information please call me on 01202 888194.

Jill Haywood

Wimborne

A feast of showtime music

Canzona Brass will join with Fordingbridge Choral Society for a feast of showtime music. Our repertoire features most genres of music, from Monteverdi to Abba, and our members all work with leading orchestras including London Philharmonic, BBC Philharmonic, BBC Big Band, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra and notably the Syd Lawrence Orchestra.

You can look forward to an exhilarating and foot-tapping concert of showtime music.

The concert is being held at St Mary’s Church in Fordingbridge on Saturday, June 29, starting at 7pm as part of St Mary’s

Church Midsummer Music Festival. A bar is available in the interval.

Tickets are £12.50 in advance or £15 at the door with free entry for under 18s.

Tickets are available through ticketsource.co.uk/ fordingbridgechoral or at the Fordingbridge Bookshop in Salisbury Street. For more information please ring the secretary on 01425 656348 or facebook.com/ fordingbridgechoralsociety orfordingbridgechoral.org.uk We look forward to seeing you there.

Colin Burt Fordingbridge

and, of course, the public who have again supported this venture at a time when charity incomes are generally suffering. This year you have generously helped us raise more than £1200.

Thank you all.

Ron Neave

Wimborne & Ferndown Lions

The highs and lows of fostering

More than 800 sign petition to save much-loved village pub

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“There are always highs and sometimes some really tough lows, but each one brings new rewards and new challenges”

More than 800 people have signed a petition to have Rockbourne’s Rose & Thistle pub, recognised as an Asset of Community Value (ACV).

Villagers fear the thatched pub could be turned into housing if it closes.

The hustle and bustle of a busy household can provide so much joy and fulfilment, seeing others achieve or just sharing experiences over a heart-warming breakfast. Yet, that does not mean there are no challenges involved, with any household regardless of size and make up has its own unique challenges – and that is the same for fostering households.

The petition, which is to gauge support for the ACV said: “The RAT has been serving our community for hundreds of years, providing not only food and drink but also a meeting place where friendships are forged and memories made. It is more than just a business, it’s an essential part of our local identity.”

The petition on Change.org says that achieving ACV status would provide some protection against change-of-use planning applications.

When children come into your life, whether that be short term or long term you know as a carer that, at some point, it is more than likely this child may move on to a more permanent home. It can be emotional to see a youngster move on but our carers highlight that it is nice to see when they become settled and happy in a new home. One carer notes such moment is “a high and a low together! … A high as we know we have made a difference in their lives, but a low, because they are leaving you”

enjoying this vital community hub,” it says.

That is why Footprints pay close attention to this transition, giving the support required for all individuals. Over the last years, more special guardianships have been approved, allowing carers to look after youngsters on a more permanent basis, this is a great outcome that Footprints are proud of.

The petition was launched in response to a statement by the pub’s owner, who said the ‘significant challenges’ it has experienced in recent years, including changing social habits and the economic climate, means he has had to cut opening hours.

He said that, despite trying to sell the pub, no buyer has been found and he has now been ‘forced to consider a planning application for a change of use,’ as a last resort.

If you are up for a new challenge fostering could be your next step, but remember it does not always go swimmingly, but it promises rewards! That is why Footprints are the best choice for anyone that would feel content in a small supportive environment.

“Our goal is to save the pub from closure to ensure that future generations can continue

This is not only a difficult time for the carer, the child must also get used to a new home, and new guardians.

In the next article from the series, we will be exploring what inspires our wonderful foster carers!

“The best way to help ensure our pub’s survival is by visiting and enjoying what we have to offer,” he added.

“Your staff are exemplary in every way. They care for my every need, showing genuine kindness and always go above and beyond the call of

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

Repair cafes

Volunteers at Ringwood Repair Café have saved nearly 100kg of potential waste from landfill by mending faulty items. At their last café volunteers fixed 24 items, diagnosed 24 others as repairable and only six items were recommended for recycling or disposal.

The next two repair events are on June 8 and July 13. If you have something in need of repair you can email your inquiry, ideally with a photograph, to ringwoodrepaircafeuk@gmail. com.

Swimming spot

The River Avon at Fordingbridge has been designated as one of the UK Government’s 27 new, official wild swimming areas. This does not guarantee the location is a safe place to bathe – there are strong currents, weed and deep holes. Neither does it guarantee the water is clean enough for bathing but does ensure it will be monitored by the Environment Agency.

Schoolchildren planting a legacy

Children at Trinity CE VA First School in Verwood enjoyed a morning in the sunshine, planting trees to celebrate the creation of new school house names after native trees. Eight children from the school helped to dig planting holes on their school field and then positioned and planted the

young trees representing the chosen house names: Oak, Beech, Maple and Ash. The healthy saplings were donated by Brackendale Nurseries in Three Legged Cross, and Chichester Nursery in Beaulieu.

Helen Milne from Wild Places Garden Design and Ollie Greensmith from the Verwood and District Horticultural Society helped headteacher.

James Newbery choose the right positions in the school grounds, and assist the children with their planting.

Tree stakes and ties were donated by Stewart’s Garden Centre, to help support the young trees, and the society supplied stakes and wire fencing to protect the saplings from deer.

James said: “By planting trees, which represent our Houses of Ash, Beech, Maple and Oak, the children will have something communal and tangible that

they can look at, nurture and see change, as they change and grow within our wonderful school.

“Our hope is that in years to come, the children will see the trees as part of their legacy, within the local community.

“They will always remember the moments they planted, watered and sought shade under the trees.

“Huge thanks to Ollie from the Horticultural Society and Helen from Wild Places for donating their expertise and time.

“Hopefully they have helped inspire future green-fingered Verwoodians.

“And we’re grateful to both Beaulieu and Brackendale Nurseries, who donated some wonderful saplings.

“What started as a small idea, to re-introduce School Houses, named after local tree varieties has grown into something far more.”

A performance that’s important

Oscar Wilde’s classic comedy The Importance Of Being Ernest is being performed outdoors by the Rain or Shine theatre company at Rockbourne Roman Villa on Thursday, June 6.

Doors are open for picnicking at 6pm with the performance starting at 7pm.

To book, visit ticketsource. co.uk/rain-or-shine-theatreco/ or call the box office on 0330 6600541.

Free movies at community centre

The free Family Film Club is taking place at Wimborne’s Allendale Community Centre this Sunday, June 2. From 10.30am, the club,

which is free, puts on a family movie and also sells cooked breakfasts, popcorn and snacks before the screening.

Community shop needs more volunteers

Fordingbridge’s awardwinning community shop, the Green Gram, is holding a volunteer recruitment event on Wednesday, June 19, from 6-7.30pm.

Due to its expansion and continued growth, it is inviting anyone who may be interested in volunteering to come and find out more and see how its volunteers are the lifeblood of the community business. Attendees will learn about how the shop has developed and its journey to date, about

Comment on parish’s plan

Alderholt Parish Council, which is currently engaged in a planning battle with Dudsbury Homes, has submitted a new neighbourhood plan for independent examination.

Drawn up by residents and agreed by the parish council, if the plan is approved after examination and by a local referendum, it will be taken into consideration when making planning decisions. Neighbourhood plans were introduced in the Localism Act 2011 to give residents more say in the future use of land and buildings in their area. For example, the plan can say where new homes, shops or offices might be built, or what they should look like. Plans can also be used to protect features that the community value, such as locally important green spaces. People who live, work, or run a business in the Alderholt neighbourhood area have until June 25 to submit comments. After this, the plan and comments will be passed on to an independent examiner.

Speed checking

Following a one-hour speed watch operation on Highton Road near Ringwood, police reported 28 vehicles travelling at more than 31mph with five out of 157 vehicles counted driving at a ‘recordable’ 35mph. No cars were recorded as travelling at 40mph or more. Ringwood Police say their next operation will be on June 13, from 3-4pm at Crow Lane.

the different roles on offer as well as how the shifts are organised. There will be volunteers on hand to help show people around and answer any questions so they can decide if they would like to join the team. Tea and biscuits will be on offer. To reserve your space, book via ticketsource at: ticketsource. co.uk/the-green-gramcommunity-refill-shop.

If you have any questions about the event or questions about the shop, email team@ thegreengram.org.

Antiques & Collectibles

A rare view of Jersey in Dorset

A large oil painting with a view towards Elizabeth Castle, St Helier, Jersey, is being sold by Charterhouse in Sherborne in their specialist painting auction on July 5.

Richard Bromell said: “We have a great selection of art, both ancient and modern in the auction.

“However, whilst this painting ticks many boxes for me, the main attraction is because

rarely do you see a view of Jersey.”

Painted by Richard Beavis, who died in 1896, it is a romanticised picture of civil war soldiers in a military chain crossing the sands with Elizabeth Castle above. The painting, which spent decades hanging in the dining room of a Tudor manor house near Salisbury, is estimated at £1,000-£2,000.

Charterhouse is accepting further entries for their specialist auctions including, classic cars on June 27, posters & film memorabilia, July 3, mid-century & decorative arts on July 4 and pictures and books on July 5.

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

Food & Drink

Lemon Cheesecake

As you know, my husband has a sweet tooth and sometimes craves a dessert!

This is one of the easiest cheesecakes that I have ever made.

We try and have a ‘date’ night each week, usually on a Thursday, when The Apprentice is on TV, so we try and have a nice meal, followed by a dessert.

Although there is sugar in it and biscuits, it is relatively healthy as it doesn’t have any cream in it!

Well that’s my theory anyway! You can add other fruit if you want, whatever you have at home.

I love making cheesecakes but I always have a problem getting them out of the tin! I have tried lining them with tin foil, cling film, baking parchment, but they never come out ‘clean’.

With most of them, I can add some cream round the sides, to hide the bits that have fallen off!

But with this cheesecake, I have nowhere to hide!

I have tried using spring form tins, but once I put the wrong bottom in, (I have two sizes) and just as I was taking out of the fridge to serve, the bottom fell out!

I managed to save most of it and rather than serve it whole, I plated it up individually! (The cat was very grateful for the bits of filling that had fallen on the floor). I covered it up with decorations and nobody was any the wiser...

Cheesecakes never last long in our house, I try and cut small pieces so we can have a treat for several days.

Martin would prefer to have a quarter in one go but I like to savour it and have more treats.

There is nothing better than sitting back after

a good meal, with a glass of wine, and a slice of home-made cheesecake!

Ingredients

110g digestive biscuits

50g butter

25g light brown soft sugar

350g mascarpone

75g caster sugar

1 lemon, zested

2-3 lemons, juiced (about 90ml)

Method

STEP 1 Crush the biscuits in a food bag with a rolling pin or in the food processor. Melt the butter in a saucepan, take off heat and stir in the brown sugar and biscuit crumbs.

STEP 2 Line the base of a 20cm loosebottomed cake tin with baking parchment. Press the biscuit into the bottom of the tin and chill in the fridge while making the topping.

STEP 3 Beat together the mascarpone, caster sugar, lemon zest and juice, until smooth and creamy. Spread over the base and chill for a couple of hours.

Cooking... with Martha Legg Blooming good coffee morning

Let’s do lunch for Samaritans

Strictly and radio star the Rev Richard Coles will be joined by writers Linda McDougall and Katie Hickman for a literary lunch in aid of Salisbury Samaritans on June 11. In partnership with The Oldie magazine, the writers will be lunching at Salisbury Guildhall, with book signings and the chance to chat, before giving talks about their work. Along with his broadcasting and membership of the Communards pop group, the Rev Coles is author of the Canon Clement mystery novels. Linda McDougall will be talking about her book on Marcia Williams, political secretary to Harold Wilson, and Katie Hickman will be introducing her book Brave Hearted: The Dramatic Story Of Women Of The American West.

The lunch costs £69 for a threecourse meal and can be booked here: reservations@theoldie.co. uk, or call Katherine on 01225 427 311 (Monday to Friday).

The Wimborne in Bloom spring coffee morning enjoyed brisk trade on the bring and buy and plants stalls. The event raised £512 towards this year’s ‘In Bloom’ campaign.

The town mayor, Diann March, drew the raffle. After the event, chairman Richard Nunn thanked the Olivers for once again hosting this popular event.

The second Wimborne in Bloom Open Gardens Day this year is on Sunday, June 30, when 20 gardens in and around the town will be open. They will be well signed and leaflets for the event will soon be in circulation.

The summer planting takes place during the middle of June and more than 100 hanging baskets will be erected.

It is hoped that townsfolk will help to ensure that the town looks its best throughout the

summer with an absence of litter, weeds and graffiti. Help is always needed so volunteers are welcome to contact Richard Nunn on 01202 888793.

Full details on Wimborne in Bloom can be found at: wimborneinbloom.org.uk. n Wimborne in Bloom’s annual meeting will take place on Monday, June 3, at 7.30pm in Wimborne Town Hall.

A report will be given on the activities of 2023 and the accounts will be presented. Plans for 2024 will be discussed.

Residents are encouraged to go along and find out whether they could help with some of the behind-the-scene activities. All are welcome and there will be coffee and biscuits on conclusion.

Outdoor food festival just fits the grill!

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Calling all outdoor cooking and barbecue enthusiasts... you won’t want to miss Stewarts Grill Fest.

Head on down to Stewarts Christchurch on June 29 or 30 for a day of live music, sizzling food, barbecueing, mouth-watering pizzas, and feasts cooked on Firebowls.

Get a taste of what you could do in your garden this summer, with cooking demonstrations and a chance to ‘try before you buy’ on the hottest outdoor brands including Ooni, Gozney, Kadai, Weber, Traeger, YETI and more!

Enjoy live music with friends and family, sip cocktails made by CONKER Gin, local brews from Pig Beer, Powder Monkey, and Purbeck Cider, with delicious local food served all day. And get kitted out on the day with exclusive offers on cooking equipment and accessories, and get money back when you spend more than £100 on outdoor cooking products.

This is an event not to be missed this summer!

Limited tickets are available, book at www. stewarts.co.uk/GrillFest

Experience food with flair

Salamander is hosting another instore evening event on Wednesday, June 26, from 6pm to 8pm Join Sue Currie from Netherton Foundry and Colm

Mckavanagh, pictured, retired headteacher and keen home cook who now works as a sous chef at the renowned Wimborne Pig too.

Sue will explain how the Netherton make their highly-regarded spun iron naturally non-stick pans and Colm will cook his signature dish, a superb

onion tarte tartin. There will be welcome drinks, food tasting, a prize draw and special offers on the night too.

Tickets are £10 per person and £15 for two.

Telephone or call in to book.

Steeped in three generations of history, Bakhtiyar has long been a respected leader in the Persian and Oriental hand-knotted carpet trade.

Advertising Feature

Headed by internationally renowned carpet expert Masoud Mazaheri-Asadi, he and his son Koroush continue to carve a new path for the industry.

Spend time with Bakhtiyar’s specialists and you will quickly discover their passion and love for the craftsmanship of the carpets they source. As an authoritative figure within the industry, Masoud is often invited to share his expertise and insider knowledge with media outlets such as the BBC to discuss the ever-changing market. He also advises auction houses, insurance firms and institutions to identify and value Persian rugs and carpets.

But we would be remise to say that is all we do, we carry out general carpet repairs for clients, whilst also working with many historic organisations to clean and restore carpets, bringing them back to life, in some cases removing 200 year old stains.

Our team of highly skilled cleaners and restorers, based in our London Warehouse, carry out repairs using the traditional knotting methods to fully restore rugs to their former glory, taking wool dated from the same period as the rug, to perfectly match the rest of the piece.

We invite you to explore our exhibition in the

Friday 7th to Sunday 9th of June 2024

Open 10.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. daily

Purchase from a large selection of hand woven Persian carpets, runners & kelims ranging from antique to modern pieces from internationally renowned Persian carpet specialist Masoud Mazaheri’s latest buying trip.

Persian food will be served daily with all proceeds raised being donated to the Alzheimer’s Society.

Directions: Approach the exhibition at Luccombe Farm from Winterborne Whitechurch (A354), using the signed Milton Abbas Road. Ample parking is available and Mintern Barn is wheelchair accessible.

beautiful Mintern Barn at Luccombe Farm in Dorset.

MINTERN BARN, LUCCOMBE FARM, MILTON ABBAS, BLANDFORD FORUM, DORSET, DT11 0BE

Take the benefits of walking to the next level

If you don’t exercise regularly, and want to improve your body, mind, energy levels, mental health and resistance to disease, walking is one of the best things you can do! Our programme can help you smash your goals and improve your health. So, what is this programme?

Well, it’s an achievable plan, that gives the maximum benefits, with minimum time investment. It also delivers the single most important aspect of an effective exercise programme... progression. This article includes new research and strategies to take the benefits of walking to the next level! We’ve based this programme on one that was shown to dramatically improve several aspects of the body’s metabolism, slightly altered to make it more practical and easier to progress. Let’s begin with a little ‘exercise 101’

There are four considerations when you are thinking about a fitness routine: mode, intensity, duration and frequency. Mode is the type of exercise; intensity is how hard; duration is how long;

and frequency is how often. This programme involves walking (which may progress to jogging/ running), at a progressively faster pace, making your way up to 45 minutes, three times per week: Start at a pace that is challenging but at which you can have a conversation without gasping, for 20 minutes, three times weekly. Ideally, have one or two days between walks (Monday, Wednesday, Friday often works). After two weeks, add five minutes to your walks and another five minutes each week, until you hit at least 45 minutes. After four weeks, start to pay

close attention to your breathing and increase your speed so you’re on the cusp of not being able to carry on a normal conversation. To be a little more precise, and really improve the benefits, you can use a heart monitor (in many smart watches) and use the formula 180 minus your age. So, if you are 40 years old, check your heart rate every minute or so and try to stay as close as possible to 140 beats per minute. This last point is ‘zone 2 exercise’ and as you progress, you transform your body’s ability to metabolise sugar and supercharge the little energy factories in your

cells called ‘mitochondria’ (along with multiple other benefits). Eventually, you can graduate to jogging and perhaps running. Keep in mind though, as you progress, most of your exercise (about 80%) should be at the ‘conversational’, ‘180 minus age’ heart rate but for a little extra boost and benefits, after six weeks you can make one of your walks or runs more intense, getting that heart rate higher than zone 2 – perhaps alternating between running and walking or jogging and sprinting.

A few other handy tips: If you have issues with walking, you can do this on a bike (normal or stationary). The only disadvantage is that you won’t get the bone-strengthening effects. You can continue to add five minutes to your walks beyond six weeks.

Get some headphones and listen to an e-book, podcast or music –make this something to enjoy and look forward to!

To start your weight-loss journey, speak to Nicki Edwards - the Cambridge lady today... 07904 331589.

New tours of Roman house

Find out what the Romans did for Dorchester with a tour of one of the finest building examples from this era.

Dates for a new and improved tour of Dorchester’s Roman townhouse are available to book on the Dorset Museum & Art Gallery website.

Tours begin at the Dorset Museum and Art Gallery, where trained guides will deliver a presentation on the history of Roman Dorchester (Durnovaria) and what life was like in this period. After this comes a guided viewing of the Roman artefacts on display in the People’s Dorset gallery, then a site visit to the Town House itself.

Attendees will not only be able to explore the grounds but will also be granted exclusive access inside the town house structure to see the mosaics up close.

Book at dorsetmuseum.org/ romantownhouse/ or in person at the museum shop.

June is ‘bustin out all over’

Rodgers and Hammerstein had it right. June is definitely ‘busting out all over’ in Wimborne with lots of events to kickstart summer, to come and enjoy in the town.

The town kicks off the month with a welcome return of Family Fest – a weekend long event on 1st and 2nd June bringing together fun activities for all the family. There’s a host of entertainment for kids, mascot appearances, food and drink, crafts and a charity dog show. Live music is on offer all weekend with solo acts and bands including Philip Samuels - The George Michael Experience on Sunday at 12.30pm. Tickets from £5 for a day.

On the 80th anniversary of D-Day on 6th June, there is a special community event. The town council, in partnership with the Minster, Wimborne BID, Royal British Legion, Museum of East Dorset and other local groups, will be remembering the Normandy landings and the courage and sacrifice of those who took part.

Events include readings of original poems by schoolchildren as part of a National School Poetry competition and a talk by local historian John Smith at Allendale House East with Dorset Heritage Trust revealing the role Dorset played in D-Day.

Look out for wartime characters around the town as Wimborne Community Theatre perform popup war story re-enactments based on memories from local people. There’ll also be singing from the 1940s-style Land Girls (pictured), the Just Sing choir and rock-and-roll singer Andy Kennett. An evening church service at the Minster will be followed by a procession from the town square to

Wimborne Cemetery for lighting of the beacon and cannon-firing by Wimborne Militia.

No sooner is D-Day over than the town welcomes one of its biggest events of the year – Wimborne Minster Folk Festival from 7th to 9th June.

Musicians, morris dancers, singers and performers come from all over the country to create a lively and colourful spectacle throughout the town. There are also street markets and food and drink, so get set for a buzzy, brilliant weekend.

BID manager Tammy Sleet said: “Summer in the town is set to be very vibrant with events, many free, happening every month, designed to appeal to everyone and to help boost business trade.”

n For Family Fest visit ffdorset.co.uk.

For D-Day timetable visit wimborne.gov.uk.

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Taking on the fundraising 24 Challenge

Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s Disability Charity, is launching this year’s 24 Challenge in support of 24-hour care for children and adults with complex physical and learning disabilities in Dorset.

Diverse Abilities’ 24 Challenge is a chance for participants to choose their own challenge based on 24 as a theme; 24 represents the lifeline of support for the families supported by Diverse Abilities and recognises the importance of the charity’s amazing staff working night and day across children’s and adults services.

Suggested options include running every day for 24 days, swimming 24 lengths or even holding a 24-hour gameathon. It may be an opportunity to give up smoking for 24 days or a challenge to read 24 books over the summer period.

sunburn, heatwaves and rain. Between them and their group of friends they raised more than £3,000!

Amelie swam 24 lengths of her local swimming pool - the first time she’s ever swum this distance all in one go, and she managed it in less than an hour. Amelie raised more than £300. Becky covered an incredible 24,000 steps a day for 24 days. She loved the challenge and how it made her reassess how she gets around - whether it was walking to office after dropping the kids at school or taking on mega-hikes around the Dorset countryside after work. She completed a staggering 576,000 steps in total.

The possibilities are endless, and fundraisers have the opportunity to create their own challenge to inspire and motivate them, as well as raise money.

Here are some examples from last year:

Brothers Luke and Joe, pictured, walked for 24 hours

Remembering VE Day

Residents of Ferndown’s Kings Park Care Home spent an afternoon remembering the celebrations from Victory in Europe day 79 years ago, with their own patio party.

Joining them was musician Neil Wookey, pictured, who entertained everyone with music and songs from yesteryear.

For many of the residents, it was a chance to come together and remember this momentous occasion at what was the end of a dark, dark period in British history.

Activities lead, Claudia Canosa, explained: “For a lot of our residents reminiscence is a wonderful unifier and a fabulous way to get everyone interacting and sharing their personal experiences with each other.

“VE day in particular, has proved a wonderful topic of conversation amongst the residents and they have really enjoyed the party.

“We work hard to make events like this extra special for

everyone and it’s clear that they really enjoyed themselves – it was a great day at work!”

Senior general manager Jenna May added: “ The coming together of residents, family, friends and staff was just so wonderful for all.

“Everyone commented on the decorations and flags dotted about and how much they have enjoyed it. To hear everyone’s tales of street parties and community celebrations from the end of the war was fascinating.”

straight up and down the sevenmile East Dorset coastline between Hengistbury Heard and Sandbanks Beach.

They contended with no sleep, meals on the go, blisters,

Participants are encouraged to decide on their challenge now and set up their fundraising pages, with the aim of completing their challenge over the summer months. Find out more, get inspiration and sign up at diverseabilities. org.uk/24challenge.

Our chartered physiotherapists can visit you at home or your care home. Providing help with mobility, balance, falls, following a hospital stay, joint or muscle conditions, parkinson’s & more. Individualised treatment plans to optimise function and maximise independence.

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Health & Wellbeing

What types of care do chiropractors give?

We have probably all heard of the words ‘adjustment’ and ‘manipulation’ and have the classic Marmite response to the popping and clicking sounds that an adjustment makes. But that’s only one part of the many different types of treatment that chiropractors offer. Read more to find out what else we can do.

Acupuncture

That’s right! Most of our chiropractors are trained in medical acupuncture, also known as dry needling. Dry needling is an excellent form of gentle care and can treat a variety of muscular conditions such as tendinitis or muscle strains, as well as relieve the pain in more acute conditions such as a slipped disc or frozen shoulder.

Trigger point therapy

You know when you’re getting a sports massage and they hold those sore spots for several seconds? That is trigger point which helps to relax and ease muscle tension which both eases pain and will make the rest of the treatment more effective.

Activator therapy

You know of this if you have seen or had it – but we also use a tool called an activator. Which is a hand-sized tool that has a cushioned end that moves quickly with an

do this on the neck, shoulders, lower back, hips, and ankles. Pressure is light, so it doesn’t feel too stretchy, but strong enough to really feel and benefit from the release in pressure on the joints. This is great for conditions such as migraines and fibromyalgia.

Mobilisation

impulse. We can adjust joints using this tool. It is gentler than our typical adjustments and doesn’t make a clicking or popping sound either – but the mechanism and outcome is the same: moving joints to relieve inflammation around nerves and reduce pain and tension.

Flexion distraction

This is a real fan favourite – and very effective for managing acute lower back pain. We place parts of the bench up so your lower spine is open and flexed, then we use our hands to increase the stretch and lightly traction your lower back.

Traction

Another favourite, traction is the technique where we lightly pull and open joints. tWe can

CHIROPRACTIC & MASSAGE

THERAPY TREATMENTS

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

• Migraines

• Lower Back Pain

• Joint Pain

• Frozen Shoulder

• Tennis Elbow

• Neck Ache

• Sports Therapy

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NEW PATIENT CHIROPRACTIC CONSULTATION, RESULTS SESSION AND FIRST TREATMENT ONLY £45 (NORMALLY £120)

Mobilisation is an extremely effective technique which we can use on almost every joint in the spine and the body. Chiropractors will specifically mobilise stiff joints in your spine which are very difficult to move yourself. This mobilisation not only helps to loosen the joints and reduce pain and stiffness, but they also increase synovial fluid around the joint which helps keep it lubricated and prevents injury and wear and tear. We use it in most of our treatments.

Diversified adjustments

These are what we are known best for, and it is a technique where we use our hands to adjust specific joints. This reduces inflammation, increases mobility, and reduces pain. It is not a be all and end all, but it’s often a technique that will really benefit you! Now you can see that we are not all about the pops and clicks! If you are suffering and want to seek help, then book in for a consultation with us and we can see how we can help you!

‘I’m more confident, energetic and happy’

I’ve yoyo dieted all my life due to my ‘all or nothing’ character.

I felt losing weight is harder when you’re older. Mainly because I’ve gained a philosophy of ‘I’m gonna enjoy/have/eat it whilst I can’. Being overweight can restrict you from achieving your goals. I used to run. Being heavier didn’t stop me from running, but it had a huge impact on my joints.

So much so, I’m having a knee replacement this summer.

Last April a friend messaged me to say she was fed up with carrying too much weight, and I replied I felt the same. We signed up to Louise’s Slimming World in Wimborne, an area where nobody knew us.

I’d previously lost 4.5 stone in 2015 in another group and I felt a fresh start in a new group would be good as I knew, knowing me, I’d feel like I’d failed. Committed to the plan, my weight came

off every week with a losing streak of seven months!

By 10 months I’d lost three stone. I love the fact that no food is forbidden and my whole family loves my Slimming World Lasagna. I also still enjoy my chocolate and I have made so many new friends in the group. I’ve taken up road cycling and have so much more energy... last month I

completed 66 miles around the IOW. The weight loss has allowed me to be more confident, energetic and happy. I’ve realised that being accountable works!

I’m just two pounds away from target, and I’ve already promised myself to keep going to group for regular weighins.

I know my old habits, and this will keep me in check.

To succeed you first need to be honest with yourself.

Always be prepared to learn something new in your group, and never be afraid of a gain.

Life’s for living... and hopefully if you can live a healthier lifestyle you can extend your time on Earth. Now that’s got to be worth the change, eh!?.

Louise runs her groups at Wimborne Community Centre on Tuesdays at 7.30am, 9am, 10.30am, 4pm, 5.30pm and 7pm. Call 07902 566149 for information.

AQUA FITNESS – GREAT EXERCISE FOR EVERYONE

Emma Broomhead is the owner of Swim South in North Dorset, offering a range of classes from sensory baby and preschool sessions, swimming lessons or aqua fitness courses.

Aqua fitness is a fun and effective way to stay in shape for all fitness levels, with the water providing resistance for a full body workout that is gentle on the joints.

As a teacher, Emma is passionate about helping others love exercising in water. She says, ‘I like to create a welcoming atmosphere, where everyone feels comfortable. Water exercise is all around good for us, providing fantastic cardiovascular exercise, while supporting and lessening impact on joints. It is also incredibly beneficial to mental health. You will leave my classes feeling refreshed and rejuvenated’.

She continues, ‘I’ve always loved the water, the sea, swimming pools, rivers, lakes, all of it. I don’t know many people who love their jobs, but I definitely do. I hope that my enthusiasm and passion is contagious in my lessons’.

For more information, please contact: info@swimsouth.uk or message at 07584209300

TRUST BROADVIEW TO CREATE THE WOW FACTOR IN YOUR HOME

TRUST BROADVIEW TO CREATE THE WOW FACTOR IN YOUR HOME

As we look ahead to the warmer months, we’ll soon be turning our attention to our gardens and the prospect of spending more time outdoors.

As we look ahead to the warmer months, we’ll soon be turning our attention to our gardens and the prospect of spending more time outdoors.

Whether that’s simply relaxing or entertaining friends and family, our gardens are a focal point, particularly in the Spring and Summer months.

Whether that’s simply relaxing or entertaining friends and family, our gardens are a focal point, particularly in the Spring and Summer months.

What better way to make the most of your time outdoors, than by creating an outdoor living environment with Broadview thanks to their louvred roof pergola systems and garden awnings.

What better way to make the most of your time outdoors, than by creating an outdoor living environment with Broadview thanks to their louvred roof pergola systems and garden awnings.

With one of the largest ranges of outdoor living systems in the South and manufactured by the Belgium based industry leading brand Brustor, every system from Broadview can be custom designed to fit your property.

Outdoor pergolas with rotating and retracting roofs operated by remote or app control, along with weatherproof side screens and heaters can effectively create an extra indoor room, outdoors!

Alongside of this, it’s not just the structure alone that Broadview can provide. Their specialist design-team work alongside a wide range of suppliers across the South who offer outdoor kitchens, hot tubs, fire pits and garden landscaping– all of which can help to create a stunning outdoor living environment that can be used all year round.

With one of the largest ranges of outdoor living systems in the South and manufactured by the Belgium based industry leading brand Brustor, every system from Broadview can be custom designed to fit your property. Outdoor pergolas with rotating and retracting roofs operated by remote or app control, along with weatherproof side screens and heaters can effectively create an extra indoor room, outdoors!

Alongside of this, it’s not just the structure alone that Broadview can provide. Their specialist design-team work alongside a wide range of suppliers across the South who offer outdoor kitchens, hot tubs, fire pits and garden landscaping– all of which can help to create a stunning outdoor living environment that can be used all year round.

No more leaving guests outside to entertain themselves while you nip back into the kitchen to prepare the next course or organise the next round of drinks, with an outdoor kitchen positioned within your new outdoor structure, you really can make the most of entertaining this year. What’s more, thanks to either sliding glass walls or integrated screens, the structure can be completely enclosed and with the great addition of heating and lighting, it can be used in all twelve months of the year. As the temperature drops, simply slide the glass shut and you can create a cosy and sheltered area within your garden, protected from the elements. Or, in warmer weather, all you need to do to make the most of the sunshine is

No more leaving guests outside to entertain themselves while you nip back into the kitchen to prepare the next course or organise the next round of drinks, with an outdoor kitchen positioned within your new outdoor structure, you really can make the most of entertaining this year. What’s more, thanks to either sliding glass walls or integrated screens, the structure can be completely enclosed and with the great addition of heating and lighting, it can be used in all twelve months of the year. As the temperature drops, simply slide the glass shut and you can create a cosy and sheltered area within your garden, protected from the elements. Or, in warmer weather, all you need to do to make the most of the sunshine is

open the roof and side screens for the perfect al-fresco space. As well as their range of pergolas, Broadview also offer fully cassetted retractable awnings that can be installed to your property for added shade.

open the roof and side screens for the perfect al-fresco space. As well as their range of pergolas, Broadview also offer fully cassetted retractable awnings that can be installed to your property for added shade.

Broadview has an extensive range of awning models to choose from, each with their own features and all can be operated by either Somfy remote control or a manual crank handle.

Broadview has an extensive range of awning models to choose from, each with their own features and all can be operated by either Somfy remote control or a manual crank handle.

Made with a beautifully crafted aluminium frame of superior quality and a weather-resistant fabric cover, the awnings provide stylish shading for your sunny patio. Available in any RAL colour and with the addition of LEDs and heating, Broadview has the perfect solution for you.

Made with a beautifully crafted aluminium frame of superior quality and a weather-resistant fabric cover, the awnings provide stylish shading for your sunny patio. Available in any RAL colour and with the addition of LEDs and heating, Broadview has the perfect solution for you.

And it’s not just Broadview’s range of outdoor shading solutions that can offer shield from the Summer’s sun and glare; they have an innovative range of internal window coverings from motorised blinds to plantation shutters and also specialise in solutions for large-shaped windows including apex and gable end windows, to roof lanterns.

And it’s not just Broadview’s range of outdoor shading solutions that can offer shield from the Summer’s sun and glare; they have an innovative range of internal window coverings from motorised blinds to plantation shutters and also specialise in solutions for large-shaped windows including apex and gable end windows, to roof lanterns.

Many homeowners think that their complex shaped windows prevent them from being covered with a blind, but worry not, you can still enjoy the beauty of an apex window with the coverage of a seamlessly fitted shade.

Available in an endless range of colours and materials, along with robust, colour matching hardware and cutting-edge technology, Broadview’s bespoke blinds will allow ample natural light to flood into your home but offer shade when you need it. Now is the perfect time to give your indoor and outdoor space a makeover. Broadview Shading Solutions, a family run business based in Dorset, are celebrating 55 years in business this year.

Their expert team specialises in helping you to create the perfect shading solution for your home, from concept to completion. Contact our team today 01202 679012 or visit their website: www.broadview.co.uk

Many homeowners think that their complex shaped windows prevent them from being covered with a blind, but worry not, you can still enjoy the beauty of an apex window with the coverage of a seamlessly fitted shade. Available in an endless range of colours and materials, along with robust, colour matching hardware and cutting-edge technology, Broadview’s bespoke blinds will allow ample natural light to flood into your home but offer shade when you need it. Now is the perfect time to give your indoor and outdoor space a makeover. Broadview Shading Solutions, a family run business based in Dorset, are celebrating 55 years in business this year.

Their expert team specialises in helping you to create the perfect shading solution for your home, from concept to completion. Contact our team today 01202 679012 or visit their website: www.broadview.co.uk

Home & Garden

Hannah’s horticulture...

A rainy May has meant the waterbutts are still topped up, and soil moisture is still fairly high, all especially good news for any newly-planted plants, lawns and the veg plot. Of course it also means lawns and weeds are growing quickly too!

Start deadheading flowers! As the summer plants begin to flower, particularly herbaceous, bedding plants and roses, regularly deadhead them to ensure you continue to get repeat and prolific flowering. You can also prune spring flowering shrubs now too if you haven’t already. Camellias, rhododendrons (if they have finished flowering – they have been late this year due to the cold spring), azaleas, choisya, etc, all can be pruned this month rather than later to keep the shape and size but not damage next year’s flower buds.

Don’t cut those hedges!

Please, please reconsider cutting hedges at this time of year.

n The first brood are just beginning to emerge from their nests, we must be extra cautious to not inadvertantly disturb nests at this critical time for our feathered friends

The birds are actively nesting and raising young, and easily abandon nests and young if disturbed. Nests which become exposed are also much more prone to predation and to colder winds and hot sun which could harm young birds. If you absolutely must trim a hedge, check for nesting birds as it is an offence

Open gardens trial success

Wimborne in Bloom Open Gardens Day was deemed a great success.

More than 300 visitors enjoyed looking round 11 gardens on a bright, sunny day in and around the town.

The day was organised as a trial as some gardens are better in the spring whilst others benefit from a later opening. Many favourable comments were received and more than £3,000 was raised for Wimborne in Bloom funds. Tea

was also served at three venues. Eight of the gardens were also open on the Saturday afternoon to coincide with a visit from Wimborne’s twin town of Valognes. The second Wimborne in Bloom Open Gardens Day will be on Sunday, June 30, when 19 gardens will be open. Full details can be found at wimborneinbloom.org.uk and will be circulated with posters and leaflets around the town soon.

to intentionally disturb nests. Unfortunately, I have heard of many an instance where, despite a thorough check, a nest was missed and sadly a chick suffered at the hands of the tools.

Blackspot on roses

Keep an eye out for black spot on roses and remove damaged

Hannah Hobbs-Chell is a horticulturist and garden designer/consultant. If you have a question for her, email:hannah.hobbschell@ outlook.com including a picture if relevant

leaves as soon as possible. I have had success with a couple of products (no affiliation or commission paid!) – Uncle Toms Rose Tonic which, if you buy from the Rose Society, means they benefit from your purchase, and SB Plant Invigorator.

SB PI is based on natural soapbased ingredients, and is an environmentally-friendly and economical way of controlling a wide range of rose pest species including whitefly, aphid, spider mite etc by physical means. It is not absorbed by the plant nor a threat to bees unless sprayed on them directly.

Battling the invasive plants

With its pretty pink flowers, Himalayan Balsam – which grows near to waterways – looks attractive but is an invasive species which competes unfairly with native plants.

To combat the issue, members of Dorset countryside service’s

Greenspace Team East volunteers have been cleaning the plant from Woolslop at West Moors.

The work will continue throughout June and if you’d like to help, contact: giles. nicholson@dorsetcouncil.gov. uk.

Cash grants for your home

Cash grants are on offer for New Forest residents who want to up their home’s energy efficiency. Residents with a mains gas supply could be eligible for funding up to £10,000, and those without one could receive up to £25,000.

People who live in the district qualify for funding if their homes have an energy performance certificate (EPC) rating of E, F, or G, and they have a total household income of £36,000 or less or they receive a means-tested benefit, said New Forest District Council.

The funding is available through

the Warmer Homes programme, and can be used to install energy efficient measures such as insulation, solar PV panels, air source heat pumps and high heat retention storage heaters in properties without mains gas. Funding is available, first come, first-served, until March 2025 and is subject to the eligibility and the EPC rating of each home, which you can discover here: https://www.gov.uk/findenergy-certificate, Residents can contact the Warmer Homes team for more information by emailing retrofit@warmerhomes.org.uk or calling 0800 0385737.

It also helps prevent powdery mildew and is a plant stimulant so will help plants to become resilient to attacks.

Uncle Toms is a foliar feed and root drench for creating resilient plants, and an environmentallyfriendly way to protect against black spot and mildew.

Finish cropping asparagus by the end of the month

Asparagus needs to be allowed to grow a few spears to enable it to re-feed itself ready for next year.

You can continue to crop rhubarb until end of July however, so rhubarb crumble is still on the menu!

Keep ponds topped up

Use rainwater ideally to top up ponds and water sources for

wildlife and your fish if you have them.

Keeping the ponds topped up is essential for wildlife access and oxygen and heat management in the summer.

Take advantage of beautiful days

Visit a few gardens whilst they’re in their prime to get ideas and inspiration for your own patch.

Whether you visit a permanently open garden such as Knoll, Compton Acres or further afield, or one of the many private NGS open gardens, you’ll be sure to find plenty of inspiration (and often plants!) to take back.

Take a picnic, or indulge in some tea and cake whilst you’re there, it’s a real r and r exercise.

HOUSE CLEARANCE

Dave

It’s all go at Turnpike Showground in Motcombe as the Spring Countryside Show comes to life. This two-day show on Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th June brings together a host of rural attractions for all the family to enjoy. Children up to the age of fifteen go free and advance adult tickets are available at £15 and on the gate at £17.

Incredible and crazy stunt clowns, dancing horses, racing pigs and heavy horses are just some of the star attractions to see. This year’s new look show also promises lots of interaction with a ‘Hands On’ marquee inviting visitors to have a go at a variety of craft skills. There’s a scarecrow competition for children, school groups and clubs. Create your own straw friends and bring them along to be displayed for all to see.

From making to learning, check out a line-up of fabulous free talks. Keen photographers won’t want to miss Saturday’s talk by world-renowned landscape photographer Charlie Waite, sharing his top tips on how to capture the beauty of Dorset’s landscape as well as exhibiting some of his wonderful pictures. Green fingered enthusiasts will dig the garden talks. On the Saturday,

Bonsai expert Geoff Hobson reveals the secrets of caring for these miniature tree marvels, whilst David Usher explores the history of gardening through his theme ‘Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue’. On Sunday, the environment takes centre stage so come and learn all about plastic-free gardening and planting for wildlife. The Show is also delighted to welcome Paul Williams, founder of the incredible ‘Big Yellow Bus’. Hear about the inspiration for Dorset’s successful community gardening project.

Plus, free tractor trailer rides, sponsored by Friars

in Sturminster Newton, live music and Dorset food and drink. Visit www.springcountrysideshow.co.uk

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Renowned landscape photographer Charlie Waite will be sharing photography tips

Get up close with the giants of the heavy horse world and see plaiting demonstrations

Moor Livestock

Gardening talks and demos from experts

FOLK FESTIVAL WEEKEND OPENING HOURS

FRIDAY 8.30AM – 6PM SATURDAY 7.30AM – 12.30 PM

Wimborne Folk Festival 2024

The weather’s getting warmer and there are signs of activity around Wimborne Minster which can only mean one thing – Wimborne Minster Folk Festival!

Each year, a small committee of volunteers work tirelessly to bring a weekend of fabulous entertainment to every corner of Wimborne.

There are concerts showcasing the best of folk music around the UK and beyond. This year, they are on the Mainstage at the Allendale with popular acts such as Merry Hell and well-known duo Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman. There are also two very special concerts in the Minster Church itself featuring the soaring harmonies of Brothers Gillespie, the beautiful music of harpist and songwriter Chloe Matharu and the ever-popular duo Fly Yeti Fly. The best way to see all these artists is to buy a Weekend Pass from www.wmff.co.uk. Whatever you spend on tickets or programmes helps to fund the festival next year, so enjoying these top-quality musicians is a way of supporting the event for years to come - and enabling much of the rest of the festival to be kept free. This is also helped by generous support and sponsorship from Andrew David Associates - Wimborne, Thomas and Woolven, Dacombes of Wimborne and Hall & Woodhouse.

In addition to the indoor concerts, there’s music on four outdoor stages - Willow Walk, The Microbrewery (next to the Allendale), The Square and The Olive Branch. Live music is performed throughout the weekend with a mix of genres from Gypsy Jazz to Party Music. Look out for some popular local groups, such as Stagecoach, Footlight Performance Academy and Resound Choir from St Michael’s Middle School. Plus, Festival Buskers are back with a super programme of highly talented individuals to entertain you as you walk around the town.

Bringing colour and fun to the streets, Morris dancers, International dancers and even some wonderful Belly dancers will be performing for you. For sheer festival spectacle there’s nothing more fun to watch than the Saturday afternoon Procession through the town, featuring the dancers in their colourful costumes and the happy music of Gugge 2000! There are also chances to join in with the Ceilidh in The Square on Sunday, and traditional Dance with Folk Active who are on hand near Salamander to show you some great new skills.

Festival time is always a great time to visit the Model Town where there’s generous free entry, for the whole weekend, to this delightful mini version of Wimborne. There’ll also be a terrific Appalachian dance stage, a local brewer and some live music.

Why not bring the family along? The festival is full of entertainment for all ages with Arts and Crafts, Stories, a Free UV Puppet Show and some fun slides and rides in Willow Walk. Come and meet a Disney Princess or follow the nature trail to Walford Mill where you’ll find live music to enjoy while you sample the delights of the Café.

Of course, the town will be full of stalls selling food, drink, gifts

and other delights. Whether you come for the local ale, the party atmosphere or the gorgeous concerts, Wimborne Minster Folk Festival 2024 has something for everyone!

Wimborne Minster Folk Festival, 7th – 9th June 2024. www.wmff.co.uk

KnitWits the Wool Shop, just off the square in Mill Lane Wimborne FREE WHENGIFT! YOU SPEND £10 OR MORE!

KnitWits has an extensive range of quality wools, patterns, accessories and inspiration for your knitting, crochet and crafting. We will be open each day of the festival and we will be delighted to give you a free gift when you spend £10 or more!

Unit 1, Jessopp House Mill Lane, Wimborne BH21 1JQ T: 01202 889620 W: knitwitsdorset.co.uk

WIMBORNE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION FOLK FESTIVAL WEEKEND LINE UP

FRIDAY

Live Music! Martin Boucher & Rachel from 8pm. Music Session From 8pm In The Function Suite.

SATURDAY

Morris Dancers From 12pm & Music Sessions From 1pm. Wimborne Comedy Club, Doors Open At 7pm. Please Purchase Tickets From Wimborne Royal British Legion.

SUNDAY

Live Music! Lewis And The Sound Of The Suburbs Plus Paul Michael From 3pm On The Terrace, Weather Permitting AVAILABLE ALL WEEKEND

Outdoor Bar With Festival Offers Fresh Food From Flaming Peaches

FOLLOW US ON OUR

“Becoming have at Gullivers

“During watching to occupy always writing I mapped story about friends, Thea life. Rachel, friendship making Rachel is thrown trying who I hope book The book Bookshop reserve

Wimborne Folk Festival 2024

“Becoming Thea” Even the best friends have secrets…A brand new novel, available at Gullivers Bookshop, Wimborne.

“During lockdown I decided I needed to quit the constant tv watching and indulging of naughty snacks. I needed something to occupy myself and I wanted to try something creative. I have always loved reading and writing so I decided to have a go at writing a short book.

I mapped out the first few chapters but as I started to write the story just seemed to flow straight out of me. I never thought about publishing my book but once I shared my story with friends, they encouraged me to share it with the world! Thea is a typical teenager going through the motions of teenage life. Her life becomes even more complicated when she meets Rachel, who she becomes good friends with instantly. The friendship develops which leaves Thea questioning her feelings, making her teenage life even harder. Thea soon discovers Rachel has a secret, which complicates things even more. Thea is thrown into a whirlwind of emotions throughout this story, trying to keep hold of her new friend whilst trying to find out who she really is.

I hope teenagers and young adults will be able to relate to this book and I hope you all enjoy!”- Chloe Caldicott

Becoming Thea by Chloe Caldicott purchasePopinandacopy duringtheFolk Festival weekend!

The book will be available at the local book shop in Wimborne Gullivers Bookshop 47 High Street, Wimborne and Amazon.co.uk. Call today to reserve a copy! chloe.turvey@hotmail.co.uk / 07956461093. Available at Wimborne Gullivers Bookshop, and Amazon.co.uk

Wimborne Folk Festival 2024

Wimborne town welcomes one of its biggest events of the year – Wimborne Minster Folk Festival from 7th to 9th June. Musicians, Morris dancers, singers and performers come from all over the country to create a lively and colourful spectacle throughout the town. There’s also street markets, food and drink so get set for a buzzy, brilliant weekend.

BID manager Tammy Sleet said: “Summer in the town is set to be very vibrant with events, many free, happening every month, designed to appeal to tourists and residents and to help boost business trade.”

For Family Fest visit https://www.ffdorset.co.uk/ For D-DAY timetable visit www.wimborne.gov.uk

For Folk Festival timetable and tickets visit https://www.wmff.co.uk/

Join us this summer at Walford Mill for family activities, craft workshops and makers markets. Situated by the River Allen on the edge of Wimborne, it’s the perfect place to explore and pick up a gift or two from our resident makers and artists.

Little Pickle at the Mill is our cafe in the courtyard run by Andrew, Karen and the team. Serving the best locally sourced food and drink around with a smile and a chat. We are Wi-Fi free, dog/family friendly, with plenty of space for little ones to play or get creative with our outdoor art cart. The cafe will be open til 8pm every Saturday in June, BBQ and bar available so bring your friends and family, find your favourite spot - it’s going to be a summer to remember. See website for details on Mill and Cafe opening times and more information on our upcoming events.

EVENTS TAKING PLACE IN WIMBORNE IN 2024

6th JUNE D-Day 80th Anniversary 7th - 9th JUNE

Wimborne Minster Folk Festival

SCHOOL SUMMER HOLIDAYS

The Animal Games Digital Trail

6th - 8th SEPTEMBER

25th Anniversary Celebration of Wimborne Militia 14th SEPTEMBER

Wimborne Food Festival

12th - 19th OCTOBER Wimborne Green Festival 30th NOVEMBER Christmas Lights Switch On Day 14th DECEMBER Save the Children Parade BRILLIANT

Keep checking https://wimborne.info/ upcoming-events/ for the latest Wimborne events Calendar.

Centenary art celebration

On its 100th anniversary, Poole & East Dorset Art Society (Pedas) is celebrating its artists, events and achievements.

A highlight is an exhibition of members’ work on the theme Celebrate! at Upton Country Park and the show is part of Dorset Art Weeks.

It runs until Monday, June 10 at the Gallery Upstairs,

Upton Country Park, Poole, BH17 7BJ.

Opening times are 10am to 5pm, and there is a lift for wheelchair access.

Entry to the exhibition is free, with a small parking charge.

More information is available at thegallery upstairs, pedas.org.uk or Contact@thegallery upstairs.org.uk.

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

World Première

THE FALL GUY (12A)

Sun 2 Jun: 16:30, 19:30 | Mon 3 Jun: 13:30, 16:30 | Tue 4 Jun: 17:00 | Wed 5 Jun: 16:30, 19:30 Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt star in this new action-comedy about a stuntman who gets himself ensnared in a sinister plot.

BOB MARLEY: ONE LOVE (12A) Mon 3 Jun: 10:30 (Silver Screen)

Although it is not currently a legal requirement, please consider wearing a face covering to protect yourself and others when visiting the Tivoli. RAVE ON – THE ULTIMATE 50S & 60S EXPERIENCE

An opera in four seasons Composer: Paul Carr Librettist: Euan Tait (After Thomas Hardy) 23, 25 July at 19.00 | 27 July at 14.00

Embark on a captivating journey into the life of reggae legend Bob Marley in the groundbreaking biopic.

MADE IN ENGLAND: THE FILMS OF POWELL AND PRESSBURGER (12A) Mon 3 Jun: 19:30 | Wed 5 Jun: 13:30

Directed by two-time BAFTA and Emmy winning David Hinton, this is Scorsese’s personal and moving look at two of British cinemas greatest filmmakers.

EXHIBITION ON SCREEN: MY NATIONAL GALLERY (12A) Tue 4 Jun: 20:00 (S) | Sun 9 Jun: 13:00 (S)

A fascinating look into the National Gallery of London, one of the world’s greatest art galleries.

D-DAY 80TH ANNIVERSARY: DUNKIRK (12A)

Thu 6 Jun: 10:30

Experience Christopher Nolan’s WW2 epic back on the big screen as part of Christchurch’s D-Day anniversary celebrations.

THE SIMON & GARFUNKEL STORY (LIVE)

Thu 6 Jun: 19:30

The international smash-hit show returns, telling the story of the origins and meteoric rise of Simon & Garfunkel.

ALLIE BAILEY: RUNNING WON’T SAVE YOU (LIVE)

Fri 7 Jun: 19:30

Ultramarathon runner Allie Bailey gives a frank, shocking and, at times, darkly funny account of her life and experiences.

RADIO GAGA (LIVE)

Sat 8 Jun: 19:30

The ultimate celebration of Queen, featuring a full live band and all their greatest hits!

Marking 100 years since the composer’s death… Giacomo Puccini 22, 24, 27 July at 19.00 | 25 July at 14.00

The Golden Anniversary Friday 26 July at 19:00

Coade Theatre, Bryanston, Blandford Forum Box Office: dorsetopera.com 07570 366 186

Arts, entertainment, what’s on

Garden Party Sunday, 21st July, from 1pm ‘Brackenwood’, God’s Blessing Green. Easy parking, wheelchair friendly. Dogs welcome on lead. Contact Fay on 01202 885685 Holt,BH21 7DD (next to Stewarts Garden Centre, Broomhill) In aid of Dorset Cancer Care + Wimborne Scout Group

Priory prepares for extravaganza

HIGH ST, CHRISTCHURCH (01202) 499199 www.theregent.co.uk

NAPOLEON (15)

Fri 12 Jan: 12:30, 16:00 | Mon 15 Jan: 19:30 | Tue 16 Jan: 12:30, 16:00 | Thu 18 Jan: 13:30, 19:30

Sir Ridley Scott directs Oscar-winner Joaquin Phoenix in this stunning historical epic that begs to be experienced on the big screen.

WHAT HAPPENS LATER (15)

Christchurch Priory is gearing up for eight days of exceptional concerts as part of its midsummer Music & Arts Festival.

Fri 12 Jan: 19:30 | Sun 14 Jan: 19:30 | Mon 15 Jan: 14:00 (S) | Tue 16 Jan: 19:30 | Thu 18 Jan: 17:00

snowed in, in-transit, at an airport overnight. Starring Meg Ryan. WONKA (PG) Sun 14 Jan: 13:30, 16:30 | Sun 21 Jan: 17:00

BOLAN’S SHOES (15) Mon 15 Jan: 10:30 (Silver Screen)

From June 15 to 22, the historic nave will stage orchestras, choruses and exquisite ensembles in a spectacular showcase of classical, choral and jazz music, all in the awesome setting of the Priory itself.

FERRARI (15) Sat 20 Jan: 14:00, 17:00 | Sun 21 Jan: 14:00, 20:00 | Mon 22 Jan: 20:00 | Tue 23 Jan: 20:00

KEN RUSSELL’S GOTHIC (18) Sat 20 Jan: 20:30 [35mm]

The festival opens with a large-scale performance of Elgar’s Dream Of Gerontius, which will see 90 singers and professional orchestra perform the powerful piece.

THE MIRACLE CLUB (12A) Mon 22 Jan: 10:30 (Silver Screen)

ANYONE BUT YOU (15) Mon 22 Jan: 14:30, 17:30 | Tue 23 Jan: 14:30, 17:30

HIGHCLIFFE CHARITY PLAYERS PRESENT: ROBIN HOOD (LIVE) Fri 26 Jan: 19:30 Sat 27 Jan: 11:00, 14:00, 18:00 Sun 28 Jan: 14:00, 18:00

Other musical highlights include Vivaldi’s muchloved Four Seasons, Holst’s epic Jupiter from the Planet Suite and a finale featuring a special 100-year anniversary performance of Gershwin’s masterpiece Rhapsody In Blue followed by anthemic Promsstyle favourites, with ticketholders treated to a glass of Prosecco from the festival bar. The Priory will be welcoming award-wining celebrity organist Thomas Trotter, as well as inviting the public to bring their voices to Hymnfest, an uplifting massed choir

SOLD OUT

4603-piped Nicholson organ plays a key part in the festival, as the church celebrates 25 years since its rebuild.

Film fans can enjoy a rare screening of the 1925 silent movie The Phantom Of The Opera (PG), with live improvised organ playing by Jonathan Hope bringing the cult classic to life.

The festival offers free events and educational workshops alongside ticketed events to make it as accessible as possible to a wide range of audiences.

Forthe full line-up and book tickets, visit christchurchpriory.org/ festival2024. PLEASE KEEP CHECKING OUR WEBSITE

Opera ensemble is boxing clever

Award-winning ensemble Opera in a Box is returning to the South West next month with the mischievous fairytale opera, Hansel & Gretel. Performing in Dorset for one night only, say goodbye to your preconceptions about opera and join this exciting ensemble for an unforgettable evening that will leave you spellbound. First performed in 1893, Humperdinck’s Hansel & Gretel retells the timeless fairy-tale of two siblings lost in the forest.

Follow Hansel and Gretel as they discover a house made of gingerbread and fall into the clutches of a wicked witch...

As a touring company, Opera in a Box aims to bring the opera genre to as wide an audience as possible, breaking down

preconceptions about the genre with fresh and exciting productions.

The company is focused on bringing together young and talented individuals to create innovative and gripping theatre, and this production features singers who have also performed with companies including Bath Opera, Bristol Opera and the Welsh National Youth Opera, and in venues from the Theatre Royal, Bath to

Although it is not currently a legal requirement,

HIGH ST, CHRISTCHURCH (01202) 499199 www.theregent.co.uk

NAPOLEON (15)

World-class music studio

Fri 12 Jan: 12:30, 16:00 | Mon 15 Jan: 19:30 | Tue 16 Jan: 12:30, 16:00 | Thu 18 Jan: 13:30, 19:30

Sir Ridley Scott directs Oscar-winner Joaquin Phoenix in this stunning historical epic that begs to be experienced on the big screen.

WHAT HAPPENS LATER (15)

Fri 12 Jan: 19:30 | Sun 14 Jan: 19:30 | Mon 15 Jan: 14:00 (S) | Tue 16 Jan: 19:30 | Thu 18 Jan: 17:00

snowed in, in-transit, at an airport overnight. Starring Meg Ryan. WONKA (PG) Sun 14 Jan: 13:30, 16:30 | Sun 21 Jan: 17:00

Poole’s Lighthouse Theatre is running a string of worldclass, ground-breaking music and musicians in its Sherling Studio over the summer months.

BOLAN’S SHOES (15) Mon 15 Jan: 10:30 (Silver Screen)

FERRARI (15) Sat 20 Jan: 14:00, 17:00 | Sun 21 Jan: 14:00, 20:00 | Mon 22 Jan: 20:00 | Tue 23 Jan: 20:00

Performing in English, eight singers and musicians will create an immersive experience for all the family, full of music, magic and of course, gingerbread!

Jazz, folk, roots, blues and recitals run alongside the venue’s monthly local bands’ showcase Live & Unheard, which celebrates upcoming grass roots local music from the potential stars of tomorrow.

KEN RUSSELL’S GOTHIC (18) Sat 20 Jan: 20:30 [35mm]

THE MIRACLE CLUB (12A) Mon 22 Jan: 10:30 (Silver Screen)

Follow the adventures of Hansel & Gretel at Lytchett Matravers Village Hall at 7pm on Sunday, June 30. Further information and tickets are available from 07795 467666 or online at www.artsreach.co.uk.

ANYONE BUT YOU (15) Mon 22 Jan: 14:30, 17:30 | Tue 23 Jan: 14:30, 17:30

From Alexander O’Neal’s farewell tour on June 4, to Pride And Unheard on June 7 and music from the Lost Songs Of Scilly on June 20, there is something for everyone who appreciates great sounds.

HIGHCLIFFE CHARITY PLAYERS PRESENT: ROBIN HOOD (LIVE) Fri 26 Jan: 19:30 Sat 27 Jan: 11:00, 14:00, 18:00 Sun 28 Jan: 14:00, 18:00

More details of what’s on and how to book are available at www.lighthousepoole.co.uk/ whats-on.

Glyndebourne.

Shake it up at 10th anniversary festival

With just weeks to go until the highly anticipated Southbourne based Shake and Stir Vintage Music Festival celebrates its 10th year anniversary, organisers have launched a fundraising campaign to ensure this year’s event is the biggest and best yet. The Shake and Stir Vintage Music Festival has become a beloved tradition in the community, bringing together music lovers, vintage enthusiasts, and families for a weekend of nostalgia, fun, and community spirit. Now, they’re calling on the support of the community to help make this milestone celebration one to remember.

Although it is not currently a legal requirement, please consider wearing a face covering

They’re inviting everyone to join in making the 10th year anniversary an event to remember.

They’re asking for donations to help cover costs and say that, from securing top-notch performers to ensuring the festival grounds are safe and welcoming for all attendees, every donation – no matter how big or small – will make a difference.

variety of music and festivities.

GOTHIC (18)

£15 Donation: Get a stylish festival key ring, a must-have accessory for any vintage enthusiast looking to add a touch of retro flair to their keys.

ANYONE BUT YOU (15) Mon 22 Jan: 14:30, 17:30 | Tue 23 Jan: 14:30, 17:30

And they are offering some incentives for those who donate:

£25 Donation: Receive an exclusive Shake and Stir festival mug, perfect for sipping your favourite beverage as you enjoy the

Your donation will also support local initiatives and organisations, helping to make a positive impact where it’s needed most. The festival is on 22nd & 23rd June,11-7pm (5pm Sunday).

HIGHCLIFFE CHARITY PLAYERS PRESENT: ROBIN HOOD (LIVE) Fri 26 Jan: 19:30 Sat 27 Jan: 11:00, 14:00, 18:00 Sun 28 Jan: 14:00, 18:00

To donate and learn more about how you can support the festival, visit eventsbystir.com or Facebook @Shake and Stir Vintage Music Festival.

Farming & Environment

A day at the farm with

Tiffany Fleming

Tiffany 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 well-being and self-worth that many have never experienced before’.

Regular visitors to High Mead Farm will be delighted to hear that the access road and car park have had a super-duper make over! Gone are the ruts and ridges, and potholes and puddles; the arrival experience is now a much smoother one. However, visitors are still reminded to access the Farm with care, as we have Co-Farmers with hearing impairments and there is often an animal or two on the loose! Work was completed just in time for the Spring Fayre and what a fabulous occasion that was! Hats off to the staff for staging an amazing event, and to the Volunteers and Co-Farmers for ensuring its success and smooth running. It felt like our busiest event yet, but also,

somehow, the most relaxed. Thanks too to the East Dorset Trac Pack for supporting the event, you can’t possibly have a spring fayre without a classic tractor or three. Also, to the BSA Owners’ Club Dorset who showcased their magnificent motorcycles on the day and the Helpful Hounds Assistance Dogs, and their ‘pawfect’ trainer Vicky Mansfield (also of Paws on Board fame) for hosting the ever-popular dog show.

There were too many activities and stallholders to be able to acknowledge them all individually but, suffice it to say, the day would not have been the same without each and every one of those who took part.

It was lovely to see so many visitors sitting soaking up the sun and tapping their toes to the fantastic Sounds Like Us trio, and so enjoyable to see our visitors enjoying some proper old school entertainment. The highlight for me was the Chicken Poo Bingo which I think it is fair to say did not go quite to plan when the chicken in question chose to lay an egg on the bingo board - delivering us two lucky winners! It could only happen at High Mead! Working on the principle of ‘a picture is worth a thousand words’, we’ve focused on the visual this week, so you can get the best possible flavour of the day - it was fun, fun, fun!

Local Services

Help with hornet lookout

COMPETITIVE PRICES

TEL: 01202 900714

MOBILE: 07743895382

SELF EMPLOYED EXPERIENCED GROUNDWORKERS/PLANT OPERATORS

We are looking for an experienced Groundworker who can also operate a 360° Excavator for local interesting contracts, working as part of a team. Applicants must be con dent in their ability to carry out all aspects of groundwork to a good standard with attention to detail. We o er a safe working environment with good rates of pay. Local work and an opportunity of long-term employment with a friendly family run business.

If you are that exible, skilled groundworker who can also operate plant to a good standard please call, Martin on 01258 455219 or email admin@farwellplanthire.co.uk

Landscape Labourers

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.

Gardeners, farmers and walkers have been asked to keep a lookout for Asian hornets, which experts fear are starting to become established in the UK. A new Government heatmap shows that whilst the majority of sightings have been in the Kent area, the invasive species has also been detected in Dorset and West Hampshire. Unlike the European Hornet, which grows up to 35mm long and is harmless to bees, the Asian variety systematically destroys hives and can kill up to 40 bees a minute.

So far in 2024, there have been no confirmed sightings in

Dorset. However, the county saw two nests destroyed in Christchurch and a further two in the New Forest in 2019, and two nests were discovered in Portland last year.

Asian hornets are mainly black, smaller than European hornets and have a distinct yellow band near their sting, as well as legs that look as if they’ve been dipped in yellow paint.

To help people distinguish between the harmless European variety, the Government has a new app, Asian Hornet Watch, for spotting and reporting, which can be downloaded from the Apple and Android app stores.

Rooting for county’s reptiles

New sand patches to encourage native British reptiles have been created at Stephen’s Castle in Verwood. The healthland is a site of Special Scientific Interest and hosts all six of the UK’s native reptiles.

A spokesman for Dorset’s countryside service said the patches, which were created by the Greenspace Team East, will provide areas of unshaded sand which are essential for successful egg incubation.

Foresters’ fury over fly-tipping

The New Forest suffers a flytipping event almost every day, a new video released by Forestry England has revealed. The video shows entire truckloads of tyres dumped in the National Park, along with bagged-up green waste, leaking oil drums, lethal asbestos panels and, in one incident, 14 mattresses.

In one segment, Ranger Erika Dovey details the dangers to the forest’s roaming ponies and livestock, accompanied by

images of mould-covered bread and potato peelings.

She says: “It makes me really sad and upset to see this.”

PC Mark Roberts showed how police operations were stopping potential waste carriers to examine their loads and licenses.

“We stopped more than 200 vehicles last year and dealt with 50 offences,” he said. The video can be viewed at youtube.com/ watch?v=XM7p6WO8B5w.

Death Notice

LUCIANA ORSINI WILSON

Died peacefully at home in Bryanston on 2nd May 2024, aged 92. Luciana was mum to four children and nanny to nine grandchildren and four greatgrandchildren. She will be loved and missed every day.

Luciana worked as a gifted seamstress in Blandford for many years and attended St Cecilia’s Catholic Church.

Luciana’s funeral service will be at St Cecilia’s 10:00am on 12th June 2024.

No flowers please but plants for her beloved garden welcome. All enquiries c/o Colin J Close Funeral Services Tel: 01258 453133 P.J.W PAINTING & DECORATING IN THE TRADE FOR OVER 20 YEARS

Root Vegetables

Could you give a child a foster home?

Across

1 Quiet sister after treatment to continue steadfastly (7)

1 Quiet sister after treatment to continue steadfastly (7)

5 Swindle namely by Welsh politician (4)

5 Swindle namely by Welsh politician (4)

10 Old Republican round court with award in part of autumn (7)

10 Old Republican round court with award in part of autumn (7)

11 Husband with female relative making visit (5)

Killer Sudoku Pro

Down

2 Apple in festival with sun out (5)

2 Apple in festival with sun out (5)

3 Urban set near works operating underground (12)

3 Urban set near works operating underground (12)

4 Move at speed showing editions back to front (6)

4 Move at speed showing editions back to front (6)

11 Husband with female relative making visit (5)

12 Volume on Irish poetry (5)

12 Volume on Irish poetry (5)

13 Northern Arab with argument that’s limited (6)

15 Comment about gospel writer (6)

13 Northern Arab with argument that’s limited (6)

15 Comment about gospel writer (6)

17 Bachelor entertained by Canadian singer in glass dome (6)

6 Measure of charge for all to see with line kept by fantastic combo (7)

7 Partner in room at exhibition (4)

6 Measure of charge for all to see with line by fantastic combo (7)

8 Change right-winger with green in Paris (7)

7 Partner in room at exhibition (4)

8 Change right-winger with green in Paris

9 Entire trade show mentioned in public way (12)

17 Bachelor entertained by Canadian singer in glass dome (6)

19 Martial arts actor with cold close to some risk (6)

20 Store and house on a road (5)

19 Martial arts actor with cold close to some risk (6)

20 Store and house on a road (5)

23 Eccentric came to tour Cuba, much-visited place (5)

23 Eccentric came to tour Cuba, much-visited place (5)

24 Special thing that indicates finch-like bird (7)

25 Large basin in armed vehicle (4)

14 Rental property on hill brings disappointment (3-4)

9 Entire trade show mentioned in public way (12)

14 Rental property on hill brings disappointment (3-4)

16 Second chain after renovation offering distinctive hairstyle (7)

18 Reduce period in school, we’re told (6)

16 Second chain after renovation offering distinctive hairstyle (7)

21 Reach accord with engineers in time (5)

22 Leave out award with computing etc (4)

18 Reduce period in school, we’re told (6)

24 Special thing that indicates finch-like bird (7)

26 Whole number at home recalled film by German (7)

25 Large basin in armed vehicle (4)

26 Whole number at home recalled film by German (7)

Killer Sudoku Pro:

21 Reach accord with engineers in time (5)

22 Leave out award with computing etc (4)

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 all the digits in each cage must add up to the value shown in that cage.

Golf day raises impressive £6000 for hospice

A golf club charity day has raised thousands of pounds for a local hospice charity.

Knighton Heath Golf Club organised and hosted the recent golf day to support Forest Holme Hospice based in Poole, raising an impressive £6,182.

Starting at 8.30am, a total of 34 teams hit the course for a day packed with fun and excitement, culminating with a 19th hole celebration featuring prizegiving, auctions, and a raffle.

Knighton Heath’s general manager, Kevin Eden, and functions & events co-ordinator, Denise Bennett, then visited the hospice, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, to present a cheque to corporate and community fundraiser, Kirsty Perks, which will be put towards enhancing Forest Holme’s provision of palliative and end-of life-care and support across Poole,

Wimborne and the Isle of Purbeck.

CHILD OKEFO RD BLANDFORD FORUM DORSET DT11 8HN www hanfordschool co uk

Kirsty said: “We want to say a huge thanks to Sean Keen, club captain, and Grace Burke, ladies club captain, for choosing us as their charity, as well as to the sponsors,

Come and join our staff body at our vibrant and happy prep school for girls (aged 7-13) set in the beautiful Dorset countryside:

HOUSEPARENT

The role of Houseparent at Hanford holds a uniquely important position of trust and influence in the Boarding House. The successful candidate will have the ability to lead, motivate, support and understand the pupils in their care and will have overall responsibility for the functioning and orderly running of the House. They will be the first point of contact for boarders’ parents and guardians and will have excellent communication skills.

The successful applicant will be required to work weekends and evenings as required and have significant overnight responsibility. Accommodation will be provided. To start in January 2024.

RESIDENT M ATRON

We are seeking a caring and empathetic resident Matron with strong inter-personal skills and a can-do attitude, who will be an excellent role model for our pupils. The successful candidate will make a significant contribution to the pastoral welfare of the pupils and will have the capacity to support and understand young people in all aspects of their development, especially their emotional, academic and pastoral needs. They will expect and embody high standards of behaviour, courtesy and care.

The successful applicant will be required to work weekends and evenings as required and have significant overnight responsibility. Accommodation will be provided. To start as soon as possible.

TEACHER O F FRENCH

We are seeking an exceptional candidate to teach French to our girls (aged 7 -13). Hanford School has an excellent academic record, and the girls sit common entrance and scholarships to top independent senior schools. To start in April 2024 or sooner

CLE ANER

To work as part of our team, carrying out a variety of cleaning functions. A great opportunity for an enthusiastic and helpful person, training will be given. Core hours are approximately 25 hours per week (by arrangement) term time only, to include weekdays plus Saturday mornings. To start January 2024.

To learn more about these opportunities please call the School Office on 01258 860219 or visit our website: www.hanfordschool.co.uk

is

Brain chain (hard)

players, and the incredible staff and volunteers whose hard work made this fantastic donation possible.

“Knighton Heath Golf Club are already in the planning stages for next year’s event.”

n One of the 34 teams that took part in the Knighton Heath charity golf day

Jurassic Coast challenge boosts charities

Teams from Taylor Wimpey Southern Counties have raised £3,636 for charity after taking part in the Taylor Wimpey Challenge.

The homebuilder’s annual fundraising event, now in its 10th year, raises money to support the Youth Adventure Trust (YAT), a charity which inspires vulnerable young people aged 11 to 16 through outdoor adventure, as well as other regional charities.

This year more than 355 Taylor Wimpey employees from the UK and Spain, across 56 teams, headed to the Jurassic Coast in Dorset to tackle one of three challengesthe T Rex (20 miles), the Tricky (15 miles) and the Spike (10 miles) - raising an overall total of more than £157,800.

£113,000 will be donated to the YAT and £44,000 will go towards supporting other charities across the UK.

The teams from Taylor Wimpey Southern Counties raised £3,636, which will be split between the YAT and St Francis Animal Welfare. The charity cares for, rehabilitates and rehomes numerous domestic animals including dogs, cats, rabbits, chickens, caged birds, and various small mammals. Roz Wells, sales and marketing director, said: “It was fantastic to be a part of this event and we’re delighted to have raised so much money.”

Mark Davey, CEO at the YAT, said: “We are very grateful for Taylor Wimpey’s support

over the past 10 years.

“This year is no exception and, once again, the money raised will make a huge difference to the lives of vulnerable young people in the UK.

“I’d like to thank everyone who took part in this year’s challenge, it’s a fantastic achievement and every penny raised is hugely appreciated.”

Staff members who took part on behalf of Taylor Wimpey Southern Counties include

To find out more about the work of the Youth Adventure Trust, visit youthadventuretrust.org.uk.

To find out more about the work of the St Francis Animal Welfare, visit stfrancisanimalwelfare.co.uk.

Mila is star at first SW League match

Athletics

The league format has changed a little to offer more events to senior athletes.

Team managers were a little concerned that a shortage of senior athletes would affect the results but Wimborne still managed to edge home to victory in the first match of 2024 in a very soggy Exeter.

Star performer was Mila Desborough, pictured, who broke the league record for the Under 13 javelin with a throw of 34m35 cementing her position as UK leader in this event.

Second placed Bethany Cassidy threw 27.64 for maximum points. Mila was also third in the long jump 3m94 while Bethany won the hurdles in 13.05 and came third in the shot 6m37. Newcomer Olivia Eaves was a stylish second placed 1500 metres runner recording 5.28.35. Lani Moore backed up Bethany with a third place in the hurdles 13.57 while Rosie Bond was second in the 100 metres 14,32 and third in the 200 metres 30.53. The under 15 boys were the other big scorers for the club with Sam John setting a new club record winning the 300 metres with 37.31, He also won the 100 metres in 11.96. Meanwhile

Harry Ryan was winning the hurdles in 11.75 ahead of teammate Cameron Hartley 12.62 for maximum points and still found time for a third placed 39.87 behind Sam in the 300 metres.

Elliott Trickey maintained his form with a third placed 4m78 in the long jump. Aspen Stobart won the under 15 girls shot with

9m51 followed by Olivia Jones in third place with 8m38. Alex Warren was second in an extremely wet under 17 shot put with 10m27 and was third in the discus 27m85.

The senior men actually won their age group mainly down to the efforts of Jake Roberts winner of the javelin 36m24 and second placed high jump 1m85 and discus 28.64. Harry Brooks was second in the long jump with 6m14. For the senior women Trudi Carter won the pole vault with 2m25, India West was third in the high jump 1m45 and Lola Sainsbury was third in the shot with 9m78.

Match Results

Wimborne 1840

2) Exeter 1798.5

3) Taunton 1481.5

4) Armada 1458

5) Cornwall 1446

6) Poole AC 1352.5

7) Newquay Par 1303

8) Yeovil 1226

9) Newton Abbot 1148.5

10) North Somerset 870

11) Dorchester 399.5

12) North Devon 366.5

Amy Simpson, Rachel Jenner, Elliot Drew, Lauren Murphy, Katie Robinson, Phil Page, Daniel Palmer, Jess Winchester, Murray Armstrong, Steve Beaton and Mark Edmonds.

Tackling the cyber-attacks Finance team get down & dirty

New legislation aimed at safeguarding consumers from hacking and cyber-attacks on smart devices has been welcomed in the UK.

Any device that connects to the internet, ranging from smart phones and TVs to watches and voice assistants, is now required to meet minimum security standards mandated by law. Under the new regulations, manufacturers are banned from using easil y guessable default passwords, which are exploited by cyber criminals and often available on the internet.

Security consultant Lucy Dalley of C3IA, emphasised the significance of the laws, saying: “These regulations are a great first step in protecting consumers and businesses against cyberattacks because effective security measures will already be implemented before the device is in the hands of the user.”

Nine community-minded colleagues from a specialist property finance lender are swapping their desks for an hour of muddy endeavour in aid of a cancer charity.

The intrepid group from Poole-based MSP Capital will climb, crawl and slide their way around a five-kilometre obstacle course to help Cancer Research UK.

The ‘Poole Pretty Muddy 5k’ is part of the charity’s Race for Life events programme and takes place at Baiter Park tomorrow, Saturday, June 1. MSP’s participation has been organised by an in-house committee that runs the community-giving strand of the lender’s environmental, social and governance strategy, Foundations for Better Futures. Louise Garner, junior underwriter and committee member, said the team had set a fundraising target of £500,

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adding: “We hope to have lots of fun, all in a great cause. “Colleagues from different departments are taking part and although this may be way out of the comfort zone for some, we’re determined to do our best.”

Race for Life events have raised more than £970m towards lifesaving cancer research since

they began 30 years ago. This has enabled Cancer Research UK to develop radiotherapy services helping more than 130,000 people with cancer in the UK every year. To donate to MSP Capital’s challenge, visit the team’s fundraising page at fundraise. cancerresearchuk.org/team/mspcapitals.

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2015

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Your house checklist for easy moving

If you’re moving home soon, these top tips from Armishaws Removals can make planning your relocation easier and help reduce moving day stress.

Book Your Removal Team Early

Certain dates/days are more popular, the closer you get to your moving day, the more likely your dates will already be booked.

Read The Terms & Conditions

How many times have you clicked “I have read the terms and conditions box” without giving it a glance? We’re all guilty of it. You might be required to unplug electricals, cover floors, etc. Not being prepared could slow things down and create extra charges.

Check For Access Issues

Do a quick recce with large vehicles in mind, tight bends, low-hanging trees, etc, to ensure things go as smoothly on the day.

Protect Your Carpets

At Armishaws, our crews carry carpet protectors but these may not cover against everything if access is muddy.

Add extra coverings before removers arrive.

Disconnect Electrical Equipment

Make arrangements to disconnect white goods. Curtains, shelves and anything fixed to the walls should also be taken down.

Declutter To Save Taking Unwanted Items With You

Moving home is the perfect time for that

On The Move Property

long-promised clear out. You don’t want to pay to take clutter with you only to have to find somewhere else to hide it!

Check & Clear Loft Spaces

Most removal companies are not insured to work in lofts unless boarded and lit.

Check Those Droopy Drawers

If you have any ‘wobbly’ furniture, get repairs done before it’s moved. The stresses of moving house can exacerbate existing structural weaknesses.

Disassemble System Furniture

System or self-assembly furniture is not designed to be moved whole and often does not go back together well if dismantled. Take furniture apart carefully in advance of your move. Place the screws/fixings in a

bag and tape it to the furniture. Ensure Everything Outdoors Is Ready To Go

Anything to be transported from the outbuildings or garages should be prepared in advance. Plants should either be potted or their roots contained in a plastic bin liner. Garden tools should be tied in bundles and swings, climbing frames, dismantled.

Prepare To Unpack Over Several Days

It’s usually not possibly to unpack everything at your new home in a single day. Decide what’s most important and focus on those key items.

Don’t Forget To Eat!

‘Oh, we’ll get something on the day…’ There might be delays. The last thing you need are ‘hangry’ kids and rumbling stomachs, so pack provisions to keep everyone fed and watered.

Get Insurance Cover

Ensure your goods are adequately protected throughout your relocation.

Book A Shopping Delivery

When you get to your new home, the last thing you want to worry about is ‘a big shop’. Plan ahead and book a food and essentials delivery to arrive at your new address the day after your move. You can find more moving advice at Armishaws.com/blog.