The Purbeck Gazette - Issue 335

What’s inside this issue...

EDITORIAL

Paul Jones Editor-in-chief We love hearing your news and views. Get in touch with us by emailing ed@purbeckgazette.co.uk

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The legal stuff... Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in this magazine, but the editor is unable to accept responsibility for any omissions or errors that may occur. The inclusion of any article or advertisement does not constitute any form of accreditation or approval by the editor. No part, written or visual, of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the editor.

Council rethinks crossing position

DORSET Council has stepped back from any plans to close the ground level pedestrian crossing at Wareham Railway Station.

The council says it will no longer engage with any body that proposes to remove it and potentially replace it with a ramp or lifts.

The move was announced at a recent full council meeting and comes after a huge protest at the station, as reported in the Purbeck Gazette’s February 17 edition.

Cllr Nick Ireland, leader of the Council, said: “Network Rail – or whichever governing body is going to replace them – can potentially close the crossing in 2038.

“Our previous approach has been to work with partners to

find a solution to this closure so pedestrian access can be kept at this location.

“However, the strength of the Wareham community’s opposition to previous proposed alternatives cannot be ignored.

Daisy in the medals at swimming champs

YOUNG Swanage swimmer

Daisy Kirkpatrick has come home from this year’s Dorset County Swimming Championships with a clutch of medals.

Daisy won golds in the 200m breaststroke, 200m butterfly, 1500m freestyle and 400m individual medley in her 14-year-old age group category.

Daisy, a member of Swim Bournemouth, was also 2nd in the 800m freestyle and 400m freestyle, and 3rd in the 100m butterfly and 200m individual medley.

The championships were held over four weekends at the The Littledown Centre in Bournemouth and Dorchester Sports Centre.

Her parents, Oli and Sam, said: “Daisy defended some of her titles from last year and gained a few more.

“She should be very proud of herself, proving all the early swim training before and after school has paid off.

“Daisy is very focussed and we wish her well as she now trains hard to qualify for the South West regional championship in Bristol in April.”

to impose any solution that involves ramps or lifts or similar alternatives.

Cllr Ireland added: “Recently I attended a public demonstration at the crossing alongside local councillors, Vikki Slade MP and many other prominent community representatives, including the actor, Edward Fox OBE.

“It was a huge turnout of all ages, with a clear message – Wareham residents do not want ramps or lifts to replace the current arrangements.

“So, rather than accept that the removal of ground level pedestrian access is inevitable, we are now opposing the closure itself.”

He said the current administration would not seek

“Walking across the ground level crossing will always be the best way to retain access.

“We will not spend any more taxpayers’ money chasing something that the residents of Wareham do not need or want.

“It’s not Dorset Council’s responsibility to enable Network Rail to pursue deeply unpopular alternative options just so they can close the current crossing.

“We will stand alongside the Wareham community and fight the closure, because it’s the right thing to do.”

The recent protest against plans to close the ground level pedestrian crossing at Wareham Railway Station and (inset) Cllr Nick Ireland

Daisy Kirkpatrick, from Swanage

Everything in the garden’s rosy!

CAREY’S Secret Garden, near Wareham, emerged with a clutch of prizes at the Dorset Tourism Awards.

It won the Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Award, the prestigious Winner of Winners accolade, and the Silver Award for Best Small Attraction.

It had previously been recognised as Best New Tourism Attraction after opening its gates in 2021 and since then the three-and-a-half-acre venue has continued to flourish.

In 2023, a partnership with Birds of Poole Harbour – this year’s winner of Experience of the Year – brought naturesensitive osprey tours to Carey’s, supporting the successful breeding of the only nesting pair of ospreys in the south of England.

Carey’s Secret Garden says sustainability lies at its heart, the venue regularly hosting courses, workshops and events promoting environmental and social causes.

In January, it held a Bye Bye

Bibby event, raising £2,000 in support of the men who spent time on the Bibby Stockholm barge in Portland Port who visited Carey’s to reconnect with nature during their stay.

The event featured talks from them, as well as contributions from artists such as Cold War Steve and Edmund Hall, alongside a preview of the photographic series Bibby Boys by Thomas Ralph and Theo McInnes.

Visitors can also explore

seven full-sized pieces of the Berlin Wall, which form a thought provoking exhibit just a short walk from the gardens.

Carey’s says it is proud to collaborate with local organisations such as Employ My Ability, which sends students to develop their skills on-site.

One former student is now a regular employee at Carey’s, while another has become one of the many volunteers who contribute to the garden’s

upkeep and projects.

The garden is also home to an ever-growing collection of salvias and aromatic plants, reflecting the passion for fragrance shared by Simon Constantine, garden finder and director; Paul Scriven, head gardener; and Dan Smith, head designer.

The gardens also boast an Arid garden, no-dig vegetable patch with outdoor kitchen and a food forest of abundant fruit trees and plants.

“We are thrilled to receive these awards from Dorset Tourism and to be recognised for the great work our team does here,” said Mr Constantine.

“We aim to make Carey’s Secret Garden a welcoming space for all.

“Nature is for everyone and we are in the business of good news—both for the environment and for people.

“We want Carey to inspire positive change, and these awards really mean a lot to us and tell us that we are headed in the right direction.”

East Burton Village Hall events – March

by Trish Hook

ONCE again, we have a busy schedule at the village hall with yoga, kick-boxing, Mad Melodies, fitness and board games, and our coffee and cake morning is on Friday, March 14, from 10am-noon.

As far as I know, the chakra dancing class will continue every Tuesday morning –details will be on our website or through Anahata Chakra Balancing Therapies.

The hall will be open until 10pm as the local polling station on Thursday, March 20, for the Neighbourhood Planning Referendum.

East Burton Gardening Club is on Thursday, March 27, with what promises to be an interesting talk on Architecturally Eccentric

Follies and Grottoes by Phil Broomfield. All welcome – this event is free to first timers including tea, coffee and biscuits.

Remember, the hall can be hired for private events or, if you wish to start a class, maybe tai chi, karate, art, drama, dancing or book club and so on, please phone 01929 288020 or go to our website, ebvh.org.uk. The accommodation is very flexible as the whole hall can be hired, or we can divide it in half –with a kitchen for each half –and there is a smaller meeting room.

For any information about these events, hire rates, availability, booking and so on do not hesitate to get in contact.

On behalf of Wool Library, I have been asked to let everyone know it is holding a Lego Club for children.

The library is holding the Easter Lego Club in the Osgood Room, upstairs at the D’Urberville Centre, Wool, on Tuesday, April 15, from 3pm to 4.30pm.

The club is free of charge and open to youngsters from five upwards, but those under eight should be accompanied by an adult. Lego will be provided and there will be lots of opportunities for children to make their own models, as well as a special challenge with prizes.

To help gauge numbers, register your interest by emailing info@wool communitylibrary.org or pop

into the library and speak to a volunteer. If it proves popular, it is hoped to extend the Lego Club to a once or twice a month event.

Models produced in the club will be displayed in the library for all to see.

I would like to put out a friendly request for helpers to aid the D’Urberville Players in its endeavours to air amusing and witty plays at the D’Urberville Hall. It needs assistance with anything from selling raffle tickets, helping with scenery to acting.

If you think you can help a friendly am-dram society continue this important activity for the local community, get in touch via its Facebook page or email me at patricia.hook125@ gmail.com.

Emma Shaw and Daniel Smith, from Carey’s Secret Garden, receive an award at the Dorset Tourism Awards

Whalers coin in cash for RNLI

A SEA shanty group has been telling the story of the RNLI and its volunteers to mark the lifeboat organisation’s 200th anniversary.

Wareham Whalers held special concerts throughout Dorset to raise funds for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and the Planets cancer charity.

The Whalers wrote and performed their song, The Shout, which tells the story of the RNLI and the sacrifices of its volunteers over the 200 years of its history.

The Whalers raised £7,000 in total.

A spokesperson thanked the RNLI fundraising groups in Wareham, Weymouth, Mudeford and Poole for their support and enthusiasm in helping to put on the concerts.

The group met representatives from the fundraising groups to present the final cheque at the RNLI

college, where they also performed The Shout, which attracted attention from passersby.

The Whalers don’t just perform concerts – they also hold regular workshops to explain how shanties were used by sailing crews to make their work more efficient and effective.

They have run workshops for Swanage Folk Festival and Purbeck Valley Folk Festival, and go into schools across Dorset to help children understand something about life on board the old sailing ships.

This year, Wareham Whalers will perform Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea, which will explore words and phrases that have found their way from the sailing ships of old into everyday English language.

“With anecdotes and shanties, this will prove to be an entertaining evening all round,” a spokesperson said.

Probus club meeting

MEMBERS of the Probus Club of Wimborne heard about Robbie Forrester-Addie’s fascinating career as an RAF airborne photographer, taking shots of test aircraft, at their February meeting.

Robbie, from Ringwood, is an active supporter of Cancer Research and was able to donate £80 from the club to the charity. Geoff Jones welcomed three new members to the club, which meets monthly for lunch and a talk at Broadstone Golf Club. New members always welcome at the Probus Club and more details are available at wimborneprobus.org.uk.

LUNCH MENU 2 FOR 1

MONDAY TO SATURDAY

Tel: 01929 480701 www.clavellsrestaurant.co.uk

Clavells Restaurant, Kimmeridge, Wareham, Dorset. BH20 5PE

Wareham Whalers present the final cheque for £1,374 to representatives of RNLI fundraising groups from Wareham, Weymouth, Poole and Mudeford PHOTO: Wareham Whalers

In his own words: A bomb and mine disposal officer at Studland...

Commander Gordon Gutteridge OBE was appointed to Poole as a 21-year-old Lieutenant during the Second World War as the bomb and mine disposal officer.

Robin Richards has here edited Cdr Gutteridge’s recollection of events at Studland in 1943/44, as initially published on the BBC WW2 People’s War website in 2006.

IN 1943 Studland Bay and 34 square miles behind it were designated as a battle training range. Initially used by the Army and Studland Bay for landing craft trials. RAF aircraft dropped bombs and rockets, with ships firing guns.

Small Landing Craft for carrying troops, larger ones carrying tanks and selfpropelled artillery also used the beach.

Knowle House, on the edge of the assault area, where stray munitions would occasionally go bang in the hotel grounds.

As the training progressed, live munitions replaced practice

rounds and the range was littered with unexploded munitions.

Gordon became the range safety officer, working with an RASC Captain in charge.

Munitions were usually buried one to three feet deep, some much deeper.

They obtained two tracked armoured personnel carriers (APC), a tank and 20 soldiers. The soldiers were armed with red flags on sticks. The Naval team was Gordon with five other ranks and three trainee officers.

The soldiers would form up in line abreast and walk the beach, flagging anything dangerous on the surface or for which they could see a hole-ofentry.

The Navy team, with the APC and tank, would uncover unexploded items and then with a wire haul each munition out and tow it to form piles for demolition.

Occasionally, items would explode when being hauled out or bumped over the ground and shrapnel would zing off the vehicles.

An explicit warning on the beach at Studland (above) and Cdr Gordon Gutteridge (left) in 1957 when he was still clearing unexploded munitions around the country

With the items made into piles, a demolition charge was placed and detonated. Occasionally a munition would fail to detonate and get blown for a distance by the main bang. Everyone took cover under the tank, and then it was blown up separately.

Once, a phosphorous bomb created a large phosgene gas cloud heading towards Bournemouth. It had largely dissipated by the time it arrived in town.

The RAF would bomb the beaches, making huge craters along the shoreline. Craters would fill with water and drivers of tanks could not see them and drove into them and sank, with some crews being drowned.

Sea-going tanks, fitted with inflatable skirts were launched at sea to make their own way ashore. Several sank in shallow water with loss of life on Exercise SMASH.

During Gordon’s time at Studland, they dealt with more than 2,700 pieces of ordnance without a fatality.

There was, however, a serious injury when a broken open bomb was set on fire and another bomb buried under the fire exploded. The observing Naval officer was blinded by the sand blast.

Villagers to vote on Neighbourhood Plan Poetry,

A VOTE next month could give residents in Wool more say on the future use of land and buildings in the village.

Wool Parish Council, in collaboration with residents, has put together a Neighbourhood Plan document.

Such plans are used to say where new homes, shops or offices may be built or where important green spaces may be protected – and it is supposed to

framework and the adopted local plan.

Residents will be asked to vote ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ on whether Dorset Council should use the Neighbourhood Plan document to help decide planning

Councillor Shane Bartlett, Dorset Council’s cabinet member for planning and emergency planning, said: “It takes a tremendous amount of work to pull together a Neighbourhood Plan.

“I congratulate all involved in getting to this stage.

Dorset Council could use the plan, if adopted, to help decide planning applications in the

Google

“I would encourage anyone with an interest in the future development of Wimborne St Giles to view the plans and have their say.

“Residents will need to ensure that they are on the electoral roll if they intend to vote on the plans in these March referendums.”

The Wool neighbourhood plan can be viewed online with hard copies of the supporting material on display in the Council Offices, Colliton Park, Dorchester and Wool Community Library.

A SERIES of poetry workshops based on the Purbeck Sounds programme ‘Words to Inspire – The Poetry Show’ will launch next week at Swanage Library.

Peter McCarthy, from the library, and Fiona Sturrock, from the radio station, are inviting local people to engage with poetry in a new way.

Fiona said: “We invite you to learn about poetry through listening, reading and writing poetry.”

The workshops get under way on Wednesday, March 12, from 4pm-5pm – anyone interested should register with the library.

‘Words To Inspire –The Poetry Show is aired on purbecksounds.com each Friday at 1pm.

Evening parking charges on hold after backlash

CONTROVERSIAL plans to introduce evening charges at council-owned car parks in Dorset have been ‘paused’.

Dorset Council passed a budget at a meeting last month which included proposals to introduce a £2.50 flat fee for vehicles parking between 6pm and 10pm.

However, the idea provoked a backlash, including from MP Simon Hoare (Con, North Dorset) who said he failed “to see how, financially, this will stack up given the costs needed to impose and enforce it”.

Now, the council has confirmed it is pausing the plan.

“Having listened to initial concerns from councillors and the public, it is clear the introduction of such charges should not be decided until a thorough review of all parking services has taken place,” a spokesperson said.

“This review will commence as soon as possible and may take anything up to six to nine months, as it will need to involve engagement with our residents, business owners and local members.

“This will give us a better understanding of changing trends in car park usage, how the location of our car parks

affects parking behaviour, and the impact of all parking charges on residents, visitors and local businesses.

“Therefore, we will not be progressing the introduction of evening and overnight parking charges at this time.

“We will keep everyone informed as to the progress of

the parking review, including when they can contribute to the process.”

The budget included measures aimed at addressing spiralling costs for services, particularly in children’s and adults social care, with the authority’s share of council tax set to rise by just under 5%.

PHOTO Google

Dorset Council had planned a £2.50 flat fee for vehicles parking between 6pm and 10pm in its car parks like this one in Swanage

Author found inspiration – and home – in Dorset

AUTHOR, Alex Stone, who visited Corfe Castle Library as part of a book tour to celebrate her latest title, psychological thriller The Quiet Sister, says she has a lot to thank Dorset for.

When Alex first arrived in the county she was expecting to stay for just six months.

She was a burnt-out accountant from the West Midlands, taking a career break to reset and focus on her long-held dream of writing.

At that time, she thought she would recharge, finish her novel in progress and then return to her sensible life as an accountant.

Instead, something entirely unexpected happened – she found a home.

Alex said: “From lazy days at Studland Beach, to hikes up to Old Harry Rocks, sipping hot chocolate at Café 1821 on Swanage Pier and exploring the ruins of Corfe Castle, Dorset completely transformed my life.”

She attributes the spectacular coastal paths and breathtaking landscapes to reigniting her sense of adventure, creativity and, most of all, her joy.

“One of the most defining moments was my visit to Anvil Point.

“I was searching for a setting for a new novel when my writer friend, Kathleen McGurl, took me there.

“I was expecting to find a backdrop for my book.

ON THE BEACH

Alex Stone with her new novel, the psychological thriller The Quiet Sister

Somewhere that met the scene I had in mind. Instead, I found something far more significant.

“Anvil Point, and Dorset as a whole, seeped into my writing in ways I hadn’t expected.

“My own journey of recovery here shaped the atmosphere and themes of my book.

“Dorset didn’t just inspire my novel, it became the heart of it.”

That book went on to secure Alex a four-book deal with Boldwood Books. Without

Dorset, Alex believes none of that would have happened.

“Writing has always been my passion, but it wasn’t until I lived here that I truly understood what I wanted to write about.

“My books explore themes of mental health, trauma and resilience.

“I write the kind of books I wish I had read when I was younger.

“Stories that remind readers they are not alone, and they are not broken.”

Wartime bunkers provide home sweet home for bats

NEW defences have been added to Fort Henry and three other Second World War bunkers in Studland – not to safeguard our shores, but to protect the rare bats that roost there.

Metal grilles have been added to the historic structures to prevent people from entering the areas where bats are roosting –this although doesn’t include the main observation platform at Fort Henry.

The National Trust has led the project, working with the Dorset Bat Group.

Michelle Brown, National Trust ecologist, said: “This is one of many projects across Dorset that volunteers from the bat group are helping us with –and we are hugely grateful for their support.

“Roost checks and monitoring with acoustic detectors have already identified five species of bat using the bunkers, so it’s great to know that these bats are now safe.”

The species identified in the Godlingston Heath bunkers are the common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle, long-eared bat and a type of mouse-earned bat – the detectors did not identify exactly which one.

Greater horseshoe bats are using Fort Henry.

The concrete bunkers are ideal hibernation sites because bats need cold, humid places with a stable temperature, and sheltered from the rain and wind.

Regular monitoring will also establish if the bunkers are being used in the summer.

Michelle added: “Purbeck is already an important place for bats, with 15 of 17 breeding UK bats found here.

“But bats are under threat nationally from many things including building work, pesticides and lack of insects –

their food source.

“So, we want to be doing all we can to understand and protect these fascinating creatures.”

The grilles were designed and

with horizontal bars, with enough space between them for one of the biggest of our bats, the greater horseshoe, to fly through.

Colin, from Blandford, said: “The bunker behind the observation platform at Fort Henry had been broken into on several occasions but the repairs to the gates, with vertical bars and narrow gaps, made it difficult for bats to fly through.

“The new grilles allow bats to enter but keep people out. They have only been in place since December, which is the hibernation period, so to have already recorded five species is quite astonishing.”

Bat detectors have been used to collect the data – many bats can be identified by their sounds.

But the detectors cannot determine the number of bats using the bunkers, just the amount of activity.

This information is gathered by monthly check-ups when members of the Dorset Bat Group go into the bunkers, under licence, and do a count.

Colin added: “It’s fantastic that all these people are working together for the benefit of bats.

“There has been little research into how bats use these ‘smaller’ sites, so now we have the chance to do some robust long-term monitoring.

“The scientific data we gather will help inform conservation and landscape management practices across Dorset.”

People can help bats in their own homes and gardens by planting night-scented flowers, such as evening primrose and honeysuckle, that will attract moths – favourite food for bats.

Garden ponds give bats a source of drinking water and flying insects. Installing bat boxes can also provide them with safe roosing sites.

installed by Colin Morris, known as the ‘bat man’ because of his dedication to these protected animals.

He constructed the grilles

Find out more about the Dorset Bat Group and how to get involved at www. dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/ things-do/dorset-bat-group.

Bunker at Fort Henry PHOTO: National Trust/ Cathy Lewis

Greater horseshoe bats are using Fort Henry PHOTO: Nick Squirrel

Bat grills at Godlingston Heath PHOTO: Nick Tomlinson

Greater horseshoe bats PHOTO : Nick Tomlinson

M argaret Green Animal Rescue

Are you thinking about taking on a new challenge?

GO on – give yourself a wonderful reason to try something new this year, by raising vital funds for rescue animals in need.

From signing up to a local run to organising a bake sale, hosting a quiz night or even

HELP OUT

Margaret Green’s Fundraising Guide has lots of tips to help raise money for the charity

taking on a thrilling skydive, there are lots of ways you could make a ‘pawsitive’ difference to the many rescue animals we care for each year.

If you are looking for inspiration on how you could

create your own fabulous fundraiser, make sure you visit our website, www.mgar. org.uk/fundraising, to download our Fundraising Guide for plenty of top tips and ideas on how to get started.

We would love for you to tell us about your

fundraising plans, by emailing our friendly team at comms@mgar.org.uk, who will be delighted to assist you.

With your support, we can get our rescue animals back on their paws and find them the loving forever homes they truly deserve.

Caring for animals since 1965 Rescue Care Rehome Support Donate margaretgreenanimalrescue.org.uk/Donate Registered Charity Number: 1167990

COULD you be interested in volunteering at Durlston?

Durlston Country Park and National Nature Reserve offers so many opportunities for people wanting to volunteer, be it helping protect and manage nature and wildlife, engaging with the public or helping in the office. Whether it’s volunteering ‘as and when’ or ‘every week’ there is always something for everyone. Want to know how to get involved?

On Sunday, March 16, from 10.30am-3.30pm, Durlston will be holding a pop-up volunteer day in the Belvedere in Durlston Castle. Drop in and learn about the variety of volunteer opportunities on offer. Some of Durlston’s regular volunteers will be there answering questions about

what they get up to, how to get involved and what inspires them to come back week after week. They are looking forward to sharing their passion for the site with lots of new, friendly faces!

Why not talk to a friendly ‘Sheddie’ about ‘Everyone Needs a Shed’ and what they do to support Durlston with their creative activities, practical work and gardening groups. Why not talk to a work party volunteer to learn about

Durlston Country Park has a lot going on this month

the weekly workgroups and how this helps manage the Country Park? Maybe spend some time talking to a counter volunteer about how they help support Durlston’s visitor engagement or an exhibition volunteer about what’s involved when stewarding in the Fine Foundation Gallery.

More events

The Wareham Whalers are returning on Friday, March 7, so get your tickets (£10) for an evening of shanties and songs

from the sea in their concert ‘Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea’.

Lots of other events are taking place including Robin Mackenzie, who will be hosting two workshops on the art of wood engraving and lino cut, while there will be another Stargazing evening – if the weather allows! For more information on all events at Durlston, visit www.durlston. co.uk/events.

Whatever your reason for visiting Durlston this March, we hope you enjoy it! For more information on events and more visit the Durlston website at www. durlston.co.uk. Visit the Seventhwave cafe website at www.seventhwaverestaurant. co.uk.

Get Ready to Get Muddy: The Lewis-Manning Hospice Care

Muddy Dog Dash Returns to Upton Country Park

Excitement is building as Lewis-Manning Hospice Care proudly announces the return of the muchloved Muddy Dog Dash to Upton Country Park on Saturday, 29th March 2025.

This fun-filled, family-friendly event invites dog lovers, adventure seekers, and supporters to tackle a muddy obstacle course whilst raising funds for an incredible cause.

Now in its 3rd year, the Muddy Dog Dash offers participants the choice of two exhilarating routes: 2.5km or 5km, featuring obstacles such as muddy ditches, tunnels, wiggle poles, and the ever-popular tyre runs and ramps. This year introduces exciting new features, including a Doggy Disco and Colour Rope Jumps.

• Craft and cheer stations for younger attendees and enthusiastic supporters and the opportunity to stay dry, if needed.

Why We Dash

All funds raised will go towards supporting Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, a charity that has been providing extraordinary care for over 30 years to people across Poole, Purbeck, East Dorset and West Hampshire. From day hospices to bereavement services for patients, every step, and wagging tail, helps them to continue their mission to bring comfort, care, and compassion to people when they need it most.

The first 100 sign-ups will receive a FREE t-shirt!

• Dog & Adult: £15

• Dog & Child: £10

• Family (2 adults + 2 children): £25

• Adult Only: £10

• Child Only: £5

• Additional Dog: £5

T-shirts also available for £6

MUDDY DOG DASH

Whether you walk, jog, or skip, this event is all about having fun and creating memories—all while supporting Lewis-Manning Hospice Care’s vital work for people living with life-limiting illnesses and their families.

Upton Country Park, Poole

Saturday 29th March 11am - 3pm

A Full Day of Fun for the Whole Family

The event village will feature plenty of entertainment for participants and spectators alike, including:

• Live music and entertainment by HOT Radio

• Delicious food and drinks from the Upton Country Park Tea Rooms & Kiosk

• Meet-and-greet Bluey the Dog mascot, (£5 per photo)

Anna Durose, Events Fundraiser at Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, said, “A heartfelt thank you to our incredible sponsors, partners and volunteers who help to make the event possible, with special mention to Barratt Homes, our headline sponsor. We are also grateful to Care South for their kind support and look forward to welcoming their residents to watch and cheer on our Muddy Dog Dashers.

“The Muddy Dog Dash is one of our most loved events, and we’re thrilled to bring it back for 2025 at Upton Country Park. Whether you’re running, walking, or cheering from the sidelines, every step makes a difference to our patients and their families that we support. We can’t wait to see everyone there!”

How to sign up

Sign up now to secure your spot at lewis-manning. org.uk/muddy-dog-dash

Participants are encouraged to raise a minimum of £50 sponsorship per dog, with all proceeds going directly to support Lewis-Manning Hospice Care’s services. You will receive a JustGiving link to create your own fundraising page upon registration.

Event Details

• Where: Upton Country Park, Poole

• When: Saturday, 29th March 2025

• Event village opens: 11:00am

• Wave 1 participants start: 12:00 noon

Parking is available at Upton Country Park with 400 spaces and easy access by car, train, bus, bike, or on foot.

For more information, please contact: Anna Durose, anna.durose@lewis-manning.org.uk

Join us on 29th March 2025 for an unforgettable day filled with mud, fun, and purpose. Together, we can make a difference!

Sign up today - lewis-manning.org.uk/muddydog-dash

Policing bill going up as chief highlights financial challenges

HOUSEHOLDS in Dorset will pay more for their policing services this coming financial year.

A recently approved rise to the policing precept – the portion of council tax that funds policing services –equates to a £14 increase a year for those in a band D property.

Dorset’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), David Sidwick, said the increase comes following the results on an online consultation – in which 76% agreed the force requires additional funding and 55% said they would pay more.

Some 1,966 people responded to the survey, which ran for six weeks.

The move to increase the precept comes after Dorset Council proposed a 5% increase to council tax bills.

PCC Mr Sidwick said the decision to raise the policing precept is not something he

Public Notice

takes lightly.

He reaffirmed the county remains one of the safest in the country – despite financial challenges.

“Crime is falling, positive outcomes are on the rise and anti-social behaviour is at its lowest level since 2007/08, thanks to hard work from Dorset Police officers, staff and volunteers,” he added.

“We want to go further – we want to do more to ensure Dorset is the safest place in the country but to do this we need more security and stability in our funding.

“We have big ambitions, but without a change in the outdated national funding formula, taking into account seasonality and rurality, those ambitions cannot be achieved.

“While further difficult decisions will sadly have to be made this year to ensure a balanced budget, I want to reassure the public that we are

PUBLIC NOTICE LICENSING ACT 2003

Notice is given that The Barn Events (Dorset) Ltd has applied to Dorset Council for a new premises licence in respect of Unit 9, Bere Farm, Wareham Road Lytchett Minster for Live & Recorded music (indoors & outdoors) and the sale of alcohol (on the premises) generally between the hours of Monday to Sunday 09:00am to 23:00pm Any interested party or responsible authority may make representations by e-mailing: Licensing@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk or writing to, Licensing, Dorset Council, County Hall, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1XJ within 28 days from the date of this notice. The licensing register and details of this application may be inspected by contacting the licensing Section during normal office hours. It is an offence under Section 158 of the Licensing Act 2003 to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application, the maximum fine on summary conviction for the offence is unlimited.

DATE: 19/02/2025

dedicated to ensuring our communities remain protected.”

Dorset Police chief constable Amanda Pearson said the force has made efforts to reduce its spending but added that ‘difficult decisions’ will need to be made in the future.

“We are already lean and eking out further savings is becoming ever more challenging due to the efficiencies we have already achieved,” she said.

“To date these have included renegotiated contracts, innovative use of technology, extending life of equipment before replacement, additional income generation and a

Letter

Immigrants needed to build our homes

BILL Trite’s piece ‘The immigration nettle’ – Purbeck Gazette, February 17 – is full of mistakes.

The most obvious one is that the Tories’ Rwanda policy would have stopped the flow of refugees across the Channel.

The idea that saving lives in the English Channel was a significant intention of what was obviously a very costly gesture to the right of the party and the far right beyond is totally unconvincing.

The best way to deal with what many people see as a problem is to establish safe access points for refugee applicants.

Mr Trite says that Kemi

reduction of 72 full-time equivalent police staff posts under the current year savings schemes.

“The financial situation of the force remains extremely challenging, and despite this increase in precept, we will have to continue to make some very difficult decisions to ensure we deliver effective policing within budget.

“Dorset remains one of the safest areas in the country, and we remain committed to being tough on crime, relentlessly pursuing those criminals who cause the most harm to our communities, keeping people safe and putting victims first.”

Badenoch requires future immigrants to be net contributors to the British economy or leave.

It is a well established fact that immigrant households are net contributors to the national wealth.

Much of our public services and industries rely on immigration.

The building industry, on which the Labour Government depends for its house building policy, is desperately short of skilled workers and employers are pressing the Government to allow immigration to solve the problem.

Fred Lindop Swanage

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick and chief constable Amanda Pearson PHOTO: Dorset PCC

Back when Upton had trains...

RESIDENTS and visitors are being reminded that trains used to run through Upton thanks to a newly installed railway heritage information board next to the old line, the Castleman Corkscrew.

The line was built in 1847 and was so called because it followed a circuitous route from Southampton to Hamworthy to avail the New Forest.

The passenger line was a

casualty of the Beeching Cuts in 1964, and freight traffic ceased two years later.

The route is now part of Castleman Trailway for pedestrians and cyclists from Hamworthy across Upton Heath to Broadstone and Wimborne.

The board was funded by Upton in Bloom members.

In the picture are Mike Brown, local resident, Swanage Railway volunteer and member of the Poole Harbour Trails Community Group; deputy town clerk, Kate Osborne; and Upton in Bloom secretary Lynn Wright and vice-chair Cllr Ray Griffin.

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

A Living Trust, is a legal arrangement that allows you to protect your assets, including your home, from care costs along with potential inheritance tax implications. Here are a few key points to consider:

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

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

One of the advantages of a living trust is that it is reversable, meaning you can make changes to the trust or remove your home from the trust during your lifetime. This flexibility allows you to adapt to changing circumstances or wishes.

THE life of Dorset’s most notorious smuggler, Isaac Gulliver, will be the subject of a talk at The Mowlem in Swanage next week.

Gulliver and his army of moonrakers operated in the late 18th and early 19th

centuries along the coastline of Hampshire and Dorset from Christchurch in the east to Lyme Regis in the west.

Malcolm Angel, author of an authoritative book on his subject, will give the talk, In Search of Isaac Gulliver, Legendary Dorset Smuggler, on Wednesday, March 12, at 2.30pm.

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

4. Reversable Nature:

5. Trust Administration: When you establish a living trust, you typically designate yourself as the trustee alongside one to three other trustees. Thus, maintaining control over the assets and allowing you to continue using and managing them as you did before. Surviving trustees take over the administration of the trust upon your incapacity or death. The effectiveness of a living trust in achieving your specific goals will depend on your individual circumstances. Oakwood Wills offer a free consultation in the privacy of our own home. Tel 07832 331594 email: info@oakwoodwills. co.uk

Walk-in HPV vaccination clinics for 16-24s coming to Dorset this March Your Health Matters Dorset HealthCare’s monthly round-up

PARENTS and family members of teenagers and young adults in Purbeck, and wider Dorset, are being urged to remind young people to make sure they are vaccinated against the human papillomavirus virus (HPV) by coming to a walk-in clinic for a FREE vaccination.

HPV is a common virus that can lead to several types of cancer, including throat, anal, cervical and penile cancers. The vaccination is highly effective, helping to give

Reader’s picture

young people protection from these future dangerous health risks.

This March, NHS Dorset HealthCare staff are visiting schools and colleges, as well as hosting walk-in clinics across the county, making it easy for young people aged 16-24 to catch up on missed HPV vaccinations.

The HPV vaccination is available free of charge to females born on or after September 1, 1991 – up to age 24 – and to males born on or

after September 1, 2006 – up to age 16 and 17, and some 18-year-olds.

No appointment is necessary to attend a walk-in clinic, and it’s completely FREE. Only one dose is necessary to be protected.

Paul Bolton, clinical services manager for the HPV vaccination programme in Dorset, said: “Some young people had the vaccination in school, and others missed it during the Covid-19 pandemic. We want to give everyone in the right age bracket the chance to get protected for life.

“As a parent, you naturally want to do everything you can to protect your child’s health,

no matter what their age. Please help us to reach young people, by reminding your 16-25-year-olds about this vaccination. The HPV vaccination is safe and is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent certain cancers later in life.

“Take advantage of the convenient walk-in clinics happening now. Anyone who is not sure if they have had the vaccination already can come along and talk to a member of the team.”

Walk-in clinics are at convenient locations such as BH2 Leisure in Bournemouth and the Linden Unit in Weymouth. Full addresses, dates and more venues are continuously being added to the webpage at www. staywelldorset.nhs.uk/update/ hpv/.

People can also follow this work on social media @ DorsetHealthcare.

March heralds start of spring, but when does spring start..?

MARCH is a particularly interesting time of year. The days begin to draw out and at the end of the month we see the clocks going forward – I always remember what to do by the little phrase ‘Spring forward, Fall back’! There’s often a buzz of excitement in the Lookouts as we begin to see an increase in water users and the watches become busier.

We also look forward to the weather beginning to change and slowly improve. The expression ‘March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb’ often springs to mind.

2018 was a good example of this. March started exceptionally cold with easterly winds and widespread snow as the UK experienced the tail-end of the ‘Beast from the East.’ After another cold snap in the middle of the month, it finished with much milder but still unsettled weather.

Like most of our weather sayings, the origins of the lion and lamb adage is lost in the mists of time, but it is believed to go back to the 17th century. The saying reflects the transitional nature of the spring season as winter's chill gives way to the warmer days of spring. There are various explanations as to why we use the lion and the lamb. One is that the lion represents the fierce and unpredictable storms that can occur at the beginning of the month, while the lamb symbolises the gentler, milder weather that often arrives by the end. Another explanation is said to refer to the astrological

by Nick Reed

constellations. The month beginning with the constellation Leo – the lion – rising in the east and finishes with the constellation Aries – the ram, or lamb – setting in the west.

Whatever the reason, March heralds the start of spring or rather both starts. March 1 sees the start of meteorological spring, while Thursday, March 20, 2025, sees the start of astronomical spring.

Meteorological spring begins on March 1 and ends on May 31. This system is based on the annual temperature cycle and the Gregorian calendar, providing a more consistent and straightforward framework for tracking weather patterns and climate data.

practical and systematic approach to understanding seasonal changes in weather and temperature.

Astronomical spring is based on the position of Earth in its orbit of the sun and spring starts on the day of the Spring – or vernal – Equinox. This is when the sun sits directly over the equator. The word equinox comes from Latin and means ‘equality of night and day’. The actual date can vary by several days but occurs on March 20 this year.

Both definitions of spring have their own relevance and applications. While astronomical spring gives us a precise celestial event to mark the change of seasons, meteorological spring offers a

Whichever day you choose for the start of spring, there are some meteorological drivers at play in March that can contribute to the weather calming down over the British Isles. Between the 1st and the 31st, daylight hours increase by almost two hours, radiation from the sun rapidly increases and the UK's average high temperature rises from 9 degrees Celsius to 12 degrees. As well as seeing warmer weather and increased traffic, the astronomical start of spring also sees a period of particularly high and low tides, often known as equinoctial tides. This correlates with the position of the sun over the equator.

MARCH is an ideal time to begin to prepare for the summer season.

When going on a long car journey, we’re used to checking oil, water, fuel and tyres, but sadly too many people jump into their yacht, speedboat or jet ski without making similar checks. Carrying out the

equivalent tasks on our boats and associated equipment can stop a memorable and enjoyable day out becoming an incident remembered for all the wrong reasons.

The RNLI does an excellent series of advice guides and checklists to help people get ready for the summer season on the water. The link to these pages is https://rnli.org/safety/ choose-your-activity.

One of the key things to ensure is having some way of communicating with the emergency services if something goes wrong. The most effective tool to do this is having a good marine VHF radio and knowing how to use it. Over the last few years, the Maritime Coastguard Agency has been encouraging water users to carry out a radio check using the NCI dedicated radio channel, Channel 65. As well as checking that your radio is transmitting and receiving effectively, the watchkeepers can give you a weather observation, tidal information and the Lulworth range opening times. Using an NCI station to carry out the check also takes the pressure off Solent Coastguard and allows it to concentrate on monitoring and responding to emergencies.

This is St Alban’s Head NCI and Swanage NCI looking forward to hearing from you on channel 65, NCI out.

March Sunset towards Portland and – below – spotting and plotting

PHOTOS: At Alban’s Head NCI

Sport

Under-strength Swans put up a good fight

Frome 23

Swanage & Wareham 19 by Ron

Butler

SWANAGE & Wareham travelled to Frome for their latest away game in the Southern Counties League and with a weakened squad put on a good show to only lose by four points.

Swans did not start well, giving away a penalty which was put into their 22. Frome tried to out scrummage Swans for several phases, before passing the ball out to the wing where the winger touched down close to the flag after five minutes.

Swans made some ground

Chris long time at the crease

by

Paul Pearson

FIRST to the wicket after Christmas for Dorset Cricket Society was member Christine Drew.

Chris is currently Dorset CCC secretary and scorer but in recent years she has

Triathlon with a twist

TRIATHLON with a difference is coming to the Isle of Purbeck this summer – and fitness fans are being invited to give it a go. The SUPBIKERUN event at Cleavel Point offers a mix of stand-up paddleboarding, cycling – road, gravel and mountain biking – and trail running.

Stand-up paddleboarding

and came close to scoring before a clearance went to fly-half George Crouch who kicked long into the Frome 22. Swans winger Wase Lasekula got their first and ran round to score under the posts. George Crouch added the extras to put Swans ahead by after 16 minutes.

Swans gave away a series of penalties taking the hosts into the Swans 22, and from the last of them Frome took a shot at goal, taking the score to 8-7 after 28 minutes.

Both teams had chances to score before the break, but the

reached the pinnacle of cricket scoring as she is now a professional scorer.

Her role started 47 years ago with Colehill Cricket Club.

Chris was Colehill scorer for 30 years, scoring more than 2,000 matches until Colehill CC merged with Wimborne CC where she was offered the chance to score for the 2nd XI before taking on the first team.

replaces the swimming element of the regular triathlon.

“We’ve seen so many people transform their outlook on fitness through our events,” said Sam Pauc, event director at SUPBIKERUN.

“It’s not just about competition, it’s about community, exploration and enjoying the journey.

“We’re inviting you to join the adventure in Dorset and experience an event that’s as rewarding as it is exciting.

defences held firm.

Swans started the second half in the same way as the first by giving away a penalty, which Frome took quickly before passing the ball along their three-quarters to a winger who touched down out wide.

From the restart, Frome aimed a long ball to George Crouch in Swans’ 22, who worked his way through the Frome defence, broke clear and scored a try half way out. He missed with the conversion leaving the score 13-12 after 47 minutes.

It was all action now and after 53 minutes a penalty to Frome took them into Swans’ 22. The line-out was not straight and from a scrum Frome won the ball, moved it along the backs for the winger to score out wide.

Swans tried to reply and full back Rory Ferguson made a great break before being tackled close to the line. He passed to the three-quarters, who went in at the corner only for the referee

Chris was encouraged to complete the umpires’ course which involved learning the 42 Laws of Cricket.

She passed the course with flying colours.

In 2002 she graduated to score for the Dorset men’s county team and she has subsequently been awarded her county cap.

Covid times brought a big break for Chris as she was

“We’re here to reassure everyone that they can take on this adventure, no matter their skill level.”

The two-day event includes a complimentary training day to fine tune entrants’ paddleboarding skills, as well as camping facilities, enabling participants to spend a long weekend with family and friends.

Sam added: “It’s perfect for those who find the swimming element of a triathlon daunting,

to call a forward pass and disallow the try.

Ten minutes from the end, a Frome player broke and was tackled on Swans’ 22, but he was supported by his forwards and a couple of phases later the ball was passed to a winger who went in close to the flag, taking the sore to 23-12.

Swans won a ball in the Frome 22 a few minutes later, drove forward to the try line and winger Meli Yawailagi scored close to the posts. George Crouch added the conversion after 77 minutes.

: Rory Ferguson, Ilaisa

n THE final Vice-presidents’ lunch is on Saturday, March 22, when Swans are at home to Corsham.

For more information, contact Mike Brett at mjb. goat@btinternet.com or phone 01929 480256.

invited to be official scorer at a variety of matches at the Rosebowl, including the England Test Match against the West Indies.

Chris has scored a number of matches in various formats and has the honour of being the first UK scorer to score in all three formats in both men’s and women’s internationals.

A lively question and answer session followed.

as this is replaced with paddleboarding, and includes free paddleboarding workshops, so if you haven’t tried this sport before, you can learn a new skill.”

The event is open to individuals of all abilities and a minimum age of 13 when accompanied by an adult.

It is being held on Saturday and Sunday, June 7-8.

For more information and to book a place, visit www. supbikerun.co.uk.

Swans

Mate, Meli Yawailagi, Ed Dimescio, Ollie Dillon, George Crouch, Ollie Peters, Tony Crouch, Craig Foskett, Jack Young, Joel Andrews, Gary Smith, Paul Gregory, Isai Dracula, Tom Holland, Jim Petrie, Nemani Dawai, Wasele Lasekula.

M er ’ s Day

Find ways to spoil Mum this Mother’s Day...

ADVERTISING FEATURE

A Mother’s Day Tribute

As the rolling hills of Purbeck awaken to the warmth of spring, we turn our thoughts to a special occasion that celebrates the most cherished figures in our lives, our mothers.

Mother’s Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it is a heartfelt tribute to the love, strength, and unwavering support that mothers provide every day.

A Tradition of Gratitude

Historically, Mother’s Day has been a time to express our gratitude, and what better way to do so than by embracing the traditions of our region? A handmade gift from a local artisan, a carefully selected bouquet of flowers, a leisurely stroll along Swanage Beach, or a Sunday roast at a local pub or restaurant. There are countless ways to show appreciation while supporting our local businesses.

For those looking to create lasting memories, a visit to Corfe Castle or a picnic amidst the bluebells in Wareham Forest makes for a perfect day out.

Honouring Every Mother

While Mother’s Day is a joyful occasion, it is also a time to acknowledge those who may find the day bittersweet. Whether remembering a mother who is no longer with us or supporting someone who longs for motherhood, let us extend kindness and compassion to all.

How To Keep Your Mother’s Day Flowers Fresher For Longer

By Selina Kerley, Owner of Tied Florist, 62 High Street, Swanage, BH19 2NX

With Mother’s Day coming up on Sunday 30th, many of you will be sending and receiving beautiful blooms to celebrate.

At Tied, we take pride in providing the freshest flowers, but did you know there are simple steps you can take to keep them looking their best for longer?

I t all comes down to clean water, hydration, and keeping them cool. First, remove any packaging and trim the stems at a 45-degree angle using sharp secateurs. Strip away any leaves that would sit below the waterline, then place the flowers in a clean vase with at least 10cm of fresh, cool water. Keep them away from direct heat or sunlight and refresh the water while re-cutting the stems every other day.

Follow these steps and your flowers could last days, if not weeks, longer. Give it a go and let us know how you get on!

Breakfast 8:15am - 11:30am Bar Menu 11:30am - 4:30pm Restaurant Menu 12:00 pm -2:30pm Sunday Roast 12:00pm - 2:30pm

& Saturday Evening Meals

at the Golf Club

Sunday 30th March 2025 Two Sittings 12:00- 12:30 & 3:00 - 3:30

Enjoy a visit to Knoll House

Knoll House in Studland Bay is a hidden gem, with a history expanding nearly 100 years it has a charm like no other. With previous notable guests such as Enid Blyton, Sir Winston Churchill and Vivian Leigh, it’s the perfect location for lunch or afternoon tea, as a stop off for the South West Coast Path or simply somewhere to soak up the spectacular views across to Old Harry Rocks.

We serve afternoon tea at the weekends, choose from the classic cream tea with homemade scones, afternoon tea which includes finger sandwiches and pastries or as a real treat, why not upgrade and include a glass of bubbly. We also have an extensive lunch menu which includes a variety of burgers, salads, pizza and even curries.

Knoll House is a family and dog friendly venue so you can come and relax knowing that there’s something for everyone. There’s a large indoor playroom with table tennis and a pool table, and our infamous pirate ship playground which has been enjoyed by many children over the decades.

In the warmer months, you can enjoy the manicured gardens or roam across the acres of heathland at the back of the hotel. If you are looking to celebrate a special event such as a baby shower, birthday or anniversary then we can also cater for this with the availability of private room hire.

Call the team at Knoll House now to book a table 01929 450450 or visit www.knollhouse.co.uk to view a sample menu.

Mother’s Day

A small act of thoughtfulness, a phone call, a visit, or a shared memory, can make a world of difference.

This Mother’s Day, let us come together as a community to celebrate the remarkable women who have shaped our lives. Whether near or far, a mother’s love knows no bounds, and today, we honour that love in all its forms. Happy Mother’s Day to all the wonderful mums!

Mothers Day Flowers

Made to order with free local delivery for Isle of Purbeck

Contact Caroline for further details Book to place your order 07966462974

A Warm Welcome

No matter whether you are enjoying a day out in the beautiful Purbecks, or socialising with friends and family....

Visit us for a warm welcome and an exciting range of food and drink, much of which is sourced locally

The Village Inn Open all day for drinks Food served 12.00pm-2.00pm 5.30pm-8.30pm Drinks Served 9.30am-10pm

Day 30th March

Join us at The Village Inn for a memorable Mother's Day lunch

Enjoy a choice of our Traditional Sunday Roast

Mums will receive a free Dessert or Glass of Prosecco

Make her day extra special. Reserve your table now

Arrow words Crossword

Sudoku 3D puzzle

Across

Place 1 to 9 once into every black-bordered 3x3 area as well as each of the 54 rows indicated by the coloured lines. Rows don’t cross the thick black lines.

6 Certainty missing Northern supplier of bread? (5)

7 Handy place for keeping bread? (6)

9 Drink when consuming fish producing disturbance (5-2)

10 Something gripping about alto’s latest means of expression (5)

11 School getting backing of celebrity (4)

13 Artist is in case of picture getting approval (6)

15 Noble term for originality ahead of time (5)

Killer Sudoku Pro

16 Rough set of lessons, it’s said (6)

17 In this way, paper is moderate (4)

20 Fashion figure (5)

22 ME citizen is earl I confused (7)

Down

1 Musical state? (8)

2 Short statement of aims (5)

3 Steal second bit of tissue (5)

4 One’s bound to be in this condition? (7)

5 Dutch priest in shop selling foreign food?

6 A cake’s best after work making one a nervous wreck (6,4)

8 Ordinary person using a crossing? (10)

12 Scholar taken with East and West (3)

13 Stratagem to overlook nothing for work

14 First person left out of nice British university making affirmation of affection (1,4,3)

15 Sense unusually expert disowning a perfume (7)

23 Fellow about to cut a dry figure, overpaid executive (3,3)

Place numbers 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and bold-lined 3x3 box.

24 Item in a setting, say, in court (5)

No digit may be repeated in any dash-lined cage, and all the digits in any cage must add up to the value shown in that cage.

18 Origin in quarters at sea, it’s said (5)

19 A hike in pay to happen (5)

21 A judge, we hear, is off work (4)

Politics

A growing funding dilemma

THE National Health Service (NHS) is certainly one of the most valued services in this country, though I wouldn’t go quite as far as the Health Foundation apparently does in claiming the NHS makes people prouder to be British than does British history, British culture or the British system of democracy.

In the 1950s, ‘60s and ‘70s the effectiveness of the NHS probably put the general healthcare of the average person in this country ahead of just about anyone anywhere else in the world, particularly through the control of viral and bacterial infectious diseases by vaccination and antibiotics.

In the decades since, there have been various claims that our standards have been overtaken by other countries more willing to introduce at least some element of the market into their system. I’m no expert in this field but I do

know that, in financial year 2022-23, the British Government spent about £212 billion – £212,000,000,000 –on the NHS, which was more than five times the amount spent on the NHS in real terms – that is, allowing for inflation – in 1972-73.

Yet many of the NHS founders looked forward to a steady reduction in NHS spending as time went by and the diseases of those years – often stemming from basic want and undernourishment – were overcome.

and open-ended.

Moreover, the older the elderly become – ‘elderly’ being a relative term – the higher the cost multiple.

What happened, of course, was the opposite, with one set of diseases being succeeded by another more prone to afflict an older population – and so the process has continued, with demand for health spending on ever more intractable diseases multiplying

The inevitable question revolves around how long demand for health services can be met by state spending based on taxation, before the country’s entire budget would need to be directed to the NHS. Action will obviously have to be taken before that point, but even drawing attention to this looming conundrum is routinely denounced and derided as anti-NHS or uncaring about the nation’s future health. That’s not so – but this huge dilemma isn’t going to disappear.

UK unemployment has just risen to 4.4%, with redundancies up and job vacancies down. This is a

direct result of Labour’s hike to Employer National Insurance, a measure which even the present Chancellor used to describe as a ‘Jobs tax’. Meanwhile, inflation has just moved to 3%, up from 2% last July.

As the Conservative Party begins the largest renewal of its ideas and policies in a generation, I thought some of Leader Kemi Badenoch’s recent words worth quoting: “I love this country. I love its institutions. I want us to build things. And the problem I have with other people on the –political – right is that they’re so angry they want to destroy things. They don’t have a plan for how to build things... I’m not here to be angry with you. I feel your anger, but I am here to fix things.”

CLLR BILL TRITE Conservative –Dorset Council and Swanage Town Council

National poll lead and Ukraine

THE most recent Findoutnow Poll has Reform UK with a nation lead at 29%, Labour 25% and the Tories at just 18%, with Reform UK projected, from that polling, to take South Dorset, Poole, Bournemouth West and Christchurch seats in Dorset, were an election to be held today.

Fantastic numbers to build off, but the hard work is just starting. Our teams will be out in every corner of South Dorset over the next few months, speaking with constituents and setting out our bold and optimistic vision for a better future for our country and for South Dorset. The truth is, our country’s current trajectory is extremely concerning.

The last 14 years of Tory failure has left our nation in a very precarious state and this Labour Government is only exacerbating the problems. The solutions cannot, and will not,

come from the legacy parties. We need bold and decisive action on immigration, on criminality, on government waste, and on lowering taxation and the cost of living for hard-working families. Only Reform UK can offer that. As our party chair said this week, the first 100 days of a Reform UK government will be the most transformative in our country’s modern history.

As we head towards the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, it seems almost incomprehensible that in modern Europe, we have such senseless bloodshed. The Ukrainian people have shown the most remarkable courage, dignity and strength in the face of the most appalling brutality by Putin. The UK has been

categorically right to give Ukraine every possible support in the defence of its sovereignty. The origins of this conflict are extremely complex, and the way out is likely even more challenging, but a peace that allows men to go home alive to their families, even if that peace might be deeply imperfect, is better than war.

One consequence of the invasion has been to lay bare just how reliant both the UK and Europe have become on countries like Russia for our energy and other critical imports. The UK’s net energy import dependency stands at 37.3%, steel at 67%, and food around 45%. We have been setting our sails for calm winds for far too long, and we must shift rapidly to become less reliant on imports, and with

that, less exposed to inflationary supply shocks.

One of the key components of our national security must be energy independence. You simply cannot have a manufacturing base without cheap baseload energy. The fanatical obsession with net zero by the Tories and Labour has left us with no manufacturing base and unreliable and extremely expensive energy. If Britain is to play its role as a key leader in the world and rightly support countries such as Ukraine in their fight for democracy, we have to do that from a position of strength. Becoming selfsufficient in the key sectors of energy, industrial manufacturing and food is critical going forward. chair.southdorset@ reformuk.com.

THOMAS GARGRAVE Chair, South Dorset Constituency, Reform UK

Bill Trite

Thomas Gargrave

Quest for cleaner, greener future

AT the General Election last year, Labour pledged that it would make Britain a clean energy superpower – and I outlined my support for securing new green jobs on our doorstep.

We made this commitment because – regrettably – the previous Conservative Government failed to attract investment in clean energy projects. Worse still, the previous Conservative MP for South Dorset routinely opposed green investment locally. And, perhaps unsurprisingly, well-paid green jobs failed to materialise for local people.

Dorset’s clean energy potential is no longer overlooked. We are already starting to see new investment in our part of the world. Earlier this month, Portland Port and the energy firm Source Galileo set out their proposal to build an offshore wind farm on the Dorset and Devon coast.

We are now turning the page on their mistakes. The new Labour Government has set out its ambitious plans for clean energy, and I am doing everything I can to ensure that

If successful, this exciting project will generate clean and affordable power on our doorstep. This is a tremendous vote of confidence in our local workforce and should create jobs, as well as a range of training opportunities, right across South Dorset. I am fully committed to ensuring that these plans create decent jobs for young people growing up in Dorset today. The proposal is still at an early stage, but I am working with all the key players to remove

barriers to progress and get this project over the line.

And this is just one of several green investment opportunities coming down the track. I will continue to bang the drum for our community, so we can create jobs and deliver a cleaner and greener future for South Dorset. Let’s get to work!

LLOYD HATTON Labour MP for South Dorset

Nothe

Fort set to get £1.374m

NEWS that Nothe Forte in Weymouth is set to receive a share of the £270 million allocated as part of an Arts Everywhere Fund from the Government has been welcomed by South Dorset’s Labour MP Lloyd Hatton.

The announcement from the Culture Secretary, Lisa Nandy,

came to mark the 60th anniversary of the first ever Arts White Paper.

Under the proposals, the Nothe Fort Museum is set to receive £1,374,763 to build a new roof and facilitate the planned strategic development of the museum.

Mr Hatton said: “I am thrilled that the Government’s funding will enable the Nothe Fort to continue the brilliant community and local educational work they are already carrying out.

“But this announcement is equally important at a national level. Arts and culture are a vital part of what makes Britain so great.They boost growth, break down barriers to opportunities and help to shape our society This new funding will provide vital support for the arts to flourish”.

The intervention will help to protect hundreds of jobs in the cultural and heritage sectors.

Working towards active travel

IT was encouraging last week to hear that Dorset will be beneficiary of £1 million funding from the Government’s Active Travel scheme, investing in walking and cycling infrastructure that aims to improve connectivity, boost local businesses and can be hugely beneficial for mental and physical health.

In Purbeck today we have a number of ongoing projects that will benefit from this funding boost and in the South East Purbeck Ward we are focussed on bringing to reality two existing Active Travel projects – first, the conversion of the Wytch Farm Road to a cycleway connecting Norden with the Poole Harbour cycle trail between Arne and Studland; and, second, the creation of an accessible footpath and cycleway between the centre of Corfe Castle and Purbeck Park, which

incorporates what was Norden Park and Ride. The combination of these projects is a big step forward for safe, sustainable, active travel and tourism in Purbeck.

The Purbeck Park-Corfe footpath project does more than just provide an excuse for fresh air, it will encourage visitors to leave their cars at ‘the gateway’ to Purbeck and consider a walk, cycle, bus or train to get to their chosen destination.

All of these options exist today from Purbeck Park but without a more obvious walking route to Corfe many of our visitors are minded to ‘drive on’ into Corfe centre and beyond.

I commend my Lib Dem Councillor colleague in Wareham, Beryl Ezzard, for her relentless campaigning for another year of the Purbeck Shuttle 200 minibus that will connect Wareham train station to Purbeck Park, Arne, Blue

Pool and other points en route.

When we can get all of these components in place we will have made huge strides towards car-free travel around the area.

I am very excited to be hosting a working group in early March for key stakeholder groups and local businesses which have an interest in the success of Purbeck Park and who, like me, believe it can act as a visitor hub showcasing the best that Purbeck offers.

Of course, active travel also has to be responsible travel and increasing the number of cyclists on Purbeck roads, especially over the summer months, needs to be done safely and with consideration to all road users and pedestrians.

I am conscious that in some areas of Purbeck, particularly through Studland Village, speeding cyclists – spurred on by Strava leaderboards – have become something of a menace to locals.

Data for 2023 available from the sports app tells us that mean average speeds for cyclists travelling north through Studland centre were 22.5mph whereas the equivalent for cars in the same location is only marginally higher at 25mph.

While not strictly bound by speed limits, ‘dangerous cycling’ is defined under the Road Traffic Act 1988 and is a punishable offence.

Furthermore, due to mounting criticism in the last few years, Strava has taken action to de-incentivise dangerous routes but, for Studland at least, this doesn’t appear to be working.

We will continue to find ways to make cycling in Purbeck a safe pursuit for all. BEN WILSON Liberal Democrat councillor for South East Purbeck Ward

Lloyd Hatton

Health & Wellbeing

Managing conflict in relationships

by Danielle Goshawk

CONFLICT is an inevitable part of any relationship. Whether it’s a minor disagreement over household chores or a deeper clash of values, conflict can feel unsettling. But what if, instead of seeing conflict as a threat, we reframed it as a way to understand each other more deeply?

When faced with conflict, we often bring our previous experiences to the current situation – family dynamics, stuff from past relationships or unspoken fears about ourselves or the relationship. Becoming curious about what is going on for you internally can shift the energy of conflict from blame to self-awareness. Next time you find yourself triggered, give yourself a moment to pause and ask: What story am I telling

myself right now?

When tensions rise, our nervous system takes over, pushing us into fight, flight or freeze. In these moments, words can be sharp, silence can be punishing and the distance between us can feel insurmountable. Something that can really help is learning to regulate our emotions before responding. This might mean taking a breath, going for a short walk or letting your partner know you need a moment to collect your thoughts. By giving yourself space between the trigger and our reaction, we cultivate the ability to respond rather than react.

Couples often enter conflict determined to be heard but not always willing to hear – and it is easy to miss what our partner is saying

what our partner is actually saying. Something I see when working with couples is that connection and intimacy is built in moments of deep listening, when we set aside defensiveness and make space for our partner’s perspective. This doesn’t mean agreeing with everything they say but rather acknowledging their experience and letting them know you’ve truly heard them.

gestures – a sincere apology, a gentle touch, some simple reassurance that you love and care about them – can rebuild trust and reinforce connection. The challenge is not to avoid conflict, but to move through it with curiosity and compassion, both for yourself and for your partner.

Slimming World

Often, we enter conflict determined to be heard but not always willing to hear – it feels so important to get our point across that we can easily miss

No relationship is free of conflict, but what sets strong relationships apart is the ability to repair. After an argument, check in: “Are we okay?”. Take responsibility for your part without excuses or justifications. Offering small

n Danielle Goshawk is a counsellor working with adults and couples, based in Lytchett Matravers and also online at www.acaciacounselling.net. She is also co-founder of Dorset Employee Wellness Support which provides local businesses with counselling and wellness services. For more information, email DorsetEWS@proton.me.

Meditations in nature: The hunter and the hunted

by Susanna Curtin WORK

commitments, relentless rain and mud, and a prolonged spell of bitterly cold grey weather have temporarily curtailed my adventures in the Dorset countryside. Meanwhile, there is sufficient drama in my garden to keep me connected to nature’s events. This morning, just after I filled up my bird feeders, a sparrowhawk swept through the garden grabbing a goldfinch in its talons before landing on the lawn to dismember its catch. This is the second attack on these social and gregarious birds in three days.

Goldfinches are widespread throughout Britain and Ireland, the rest of Europe, North Africa and Western and Central Asia. Their song, which is both distinctive and appealing, was – and sometimes still is – the reason they are trapped for the caged bird industry. As I sat on my sofa drinking tea, and thinking about the sparrowhawk and the goldfinch, I recalled a morning in November 2018 when I was working on the Greek island of Samos for a conservation organisation and was assigned a mission to catch a trapper. This excerpt from my diary tells the story:

“It is a warm, restless night in Pythagorio. I toss and turn with an anxious mind – I do not want to miss the alarm. Surely it is 5.30am by now? I am in and out of half-sleep dreams until at last the hour comes. I get dressed, grab my camera and my phone, and make my way out into the fading darkness. I

follow the directions carefully – I must walk past the junior school, then after the fire station, between the Greek ruins and the Pegasus taverna, there is a track that leads to Potokaki beach. I can just see it. But before I turn left into this dusty trail, a black car quietly turns the corner before me…, holding back just out of view, I follow it.

“By now, the darkness has lifted and there is a pink tinge over the Turkish mountains that summons the morning light. I make my way down onto the beach, out of sight, and wait. The owner of the car is making his way to a sheltered area flanked by stone walls. I watch him, surreptitiously, from behind the fine, wispy Tamarisk trees that line the beach. Soon after, the quietness of the dawn is broken by a dull drumming as he drives the wooden stakes into the hard ground. This must be him. I wait a bit longer. Eventually, I see him cast his ominous net over the stakes and over the seed head vegetation. I reach for my phone and make my call while a sick, cloying anger grips my stomach and swings the adrenalin from my heart. The trapper had been spotted yesterday by someone who had informed the conservation organisation I am working for. I was the perfect spy and, as a foreigner, would be spared the revenge that might come. Perfect or not, my pulse is racing. I can see him looking over at me.

“I take out my camera, I want to photograph him, and his act,

Health & Wellbeing

but cowardice prevails. Instead, I point my camera towards the intensifying sunrise which silhouettes the castle against the dark mountains behind, and aimlessly gaze out to sea, the way someone might if they were there to watch the dawn. The Forest ranger was on his way from the other side of the island. He would be there in 45 minutes. I must bide this enormous gulf of time. I so want him to make haste. The seconds seem to turn into minutes and the minutes into hours. Where is he?

“As I look across to the trapping before me, I can see him get up and down to collect his bounty of goldfinch. These birds will end up on the black market in Athens or Thessaloniki for sale as caged birds. The male sings the brightest and the loudest song, so the females are often dispensed with, fried and served with Ouzo.

“At last, I get a message. I meet the ranger at a nearby hotel and then join him in his jeep to show him where the trapping is taking place. As he drives down that dusty track, he catches sight of the trapper, veers left and hides the vehicle behind some reeds. The ranger runs out and across the field to make his own capture. I can feel the tension ease at last and can finally breathe – we have got him.

“Eventually they both return. There are four tiny goldfinch –

that is one every 15 minutes, every morning since the beginning of the migration –that sit eyeing me from their cage. Tiny, innocent victims undeserving of their imprisonment. The hunter looks at me and says ‘sorry’, but I shake my head in disgust. Walking back to my apartment, I feel both elated yet saddened as it feels like a drop in the ocean. It will take a year to come to court. He may get three years imprisonment, but it is unlikely. Although bird trapping is illegal in the EU, most governments turn a blind eye and thus more than 25 million songbirds are shot and trapped every year across the Mediterranean.”

But in this country, one of the first battles that the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds fought was against the taking of goldfinches from the wild. Finally, in 1933, the Government passed an act to make the sale of wild birds illegal. Now our resident goldfinch population is a success story due to this, and the adoption of our garden feeders filled with sunflower and Niger seed helping to improve their winter survival rates. On balance, and given the goldfinches’ breeding success, I forgive the hungry sparrowhawk for its catch this morning, for it, too, must survive the winter cold.

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

25 million songbirds, like this goldfinch, are shot and trapped every year across the Mediterranean

Motoring

Dorset drink-drive statistics: 1,752 offences in three years

DORSET has seen a shocking number of drink-driving offences in the past year, according to new data.

A new investigation by drink-driving car accident claims specialists, Legal Experts, reveals Dorset Police recorded more than 1,700 drink-driving offences in the last three years, with 389 logged in the last year alone.

The force clocked 1,752 drink-driving offences between December 2021 and November 2024 – which includes people who produced positive breath tests as well as those who failed to provide one.

76% of drink-drivers arrested by Dorset Police in the last year were male.

25-34-year-olds were the most common age group

arrested in the last year, closely followed by 35-44-year-olds, which made up 20%.

Poole recorded the highest number of drink-driving arrests between December 2023 and November 2024 with 45 offences committed in the last 12 months.

Dorchester came in second with 32, while East Dorset came in third with 29 arrests. Purbeck

recorded the sixth highest reports of drink-driving.

Road Traffic Accident specialist, Tracy Chick, from Legal Experts, said: “It is deeply concerning that drinkdrive-related deaths have reached their highest level since 2009.

“Anyone who drinks and drives is putting the lives of all road users at risk.

“The impact of drink-driving can be devastating not only for victims who have been killed or suffered life-changing injuries but also for the drivers facing serious legal consequences.”The findings follow the latest data released by the Department for Transport in 2024 revealing that UK drink-driving deaths have hit a 13-year high.

There were an estimated 300 deaths where at least one driver was over the legal blood-alcohol limit in 2022, the latest year for which official figures are available.

This is the highest annual figure since 2009.

Most drivers think headlights are too bright

A QUARTER of drivers (25%) who find vehicle headlights too bright are driving less at night as a result, a major new study on headlight glare from the RAC shows.

A further 22% say they wish they could drive less at night because of other vehicles’ lights and one-in-20 drivers (5%) have stopped driving at night altogether for the same reason.

The findings come from what is believed to be the most in-depth research into motorists’ views on the issue.

Three-quarters (75%) of those who drive less do so because intense headlights make the experience uncomfortable or more difficult.

Almost all drivers agree

vehicle headlights can be too bright – more than a third (36%) believe most are, with a further 59% saying some of them are.

Drivers aged under 35 are more likely to say most headlights are too bright (41%), as are those who drive conventional hatchbacks, estates and saloons.

Headlight glare is a complex issue that may be caused by a variety of factors.

These include the alignment of a vehicle’s headlights, changes in lighting technology – from halogen to bi-xenon and LED – and variations in vehicle height, as more drivers switch from conventional hatchbacks that sit lower on the road to higher-riding SUVs.

accepted on the day.

TIME is getting short for car lovers who want to display their pride and joy at the Dorset Blind Association Motor Show at Lulworth Castle next month.

Vehicle registration closes on Friday, April 4, or earlier if spaces fill up, for the event on Sunday, May 18.

Registration is £15 a vehicle, which includes a breakfast roll and hot drink, plus entry to Lulworth Castle, usually £9.

Vehicles must be preregistered as entries cannot be

Following campaigning led by the RAC, Baroness Hayter, The College of Optometrists and others, the Government commissioned a project looking at the conditions most likely to lead to headlight glare, and to see what can be done to address them. The project is set to report by the summer.

RAC senior policy officer, Rod Dennis, said: “With the exception of potholes, few motoring topics seem to rouse as much interest among the nation’s drivers right now as bright headlights.

“It’s undisputable that public concern is increasing, but the reasons for glare and what can be done to reduce it aren’t nearly as clear.

“What has gone from a mere frustration is now having a profound impact on people –

whether that’s momentarily being blinded while driving or struggling to judge the speed or position of a vehicle ahead.

“The fact such a high proportion of people are also driving less at night – or wish they could – is remarkable and demonstrates the need for glare to be tackled.

“This does, however, need to be balanced with the potential road safety benefits afforded to people driving vehicles with brighter headlights.

“Our research does suggest that the difference in height of vehicles affects how drivers perceive glare, as does the colour of headlights on oncoming traffic.

“It also appears to be more of a problem on unlit roads, where drivers’ vision is subjected to greater levels of contrast.”

The motor show will include classic, sports and supercars, along with live music, children’s entertainment, food and drink vendors and artisan traders, and admission is free.

Dorset Blind Association is grateful to the owner of Lulworth Estate and president of the charity, James Weld, for his continued support in hosting this event.

To register a vehicle, visit https://DBAMotorShow2025. eventbrite.co.uk. Alternatively, contact Dorset Blind Association on 01202 712865 or email communityrelations@ dorsetblind.org.uk.

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Telling It Like It Is

Network Rail flies in face of local opinion

SEEMS that a wellattended public meeting, the support of a huge percentage of the townsfolk of Wareham and the unqualified support – at last – of Dorset Council, has not changed the attitude of Network Rail to the crossing at Wareham.

The route director for Network Rail, Mark Goodall, has said categorically that NR’s position has not changed. He seemed surprised that the unacceptable option put forward by NR – an ‘accessible’ bridge – had been rejected by Dorset Council and that NR’s report was not even discussed by Dorset Council at a scheduled meeting on November 19.

He said: “We do not consider a line speed reduction as an appropriate mitigation measure, as it would significantly impact railway punctuality or increase journey times.”

This from a representative of a railway that constantly fails to provide trains that arrive or depart on time – that’s if they arrive or depart at all.

Mr Goodall goes on to say: “We believe that it is essential to continue working with local ‘stakeholders’ including Dorset Council, to find a long term solution to this level crossing,” and has also said that if a long-term solution is not agreed

by David Hollister

upon by 2038 it will close the crossing.

How dare Mr Goodall threaten to cut Wareham in two by closing the crossing. Just who does he think he is?

The ‘long term solution’ already works at Wool where an old-fashioned ‘level crossing’ holds the traffic and pedestrians back when trains are approaching. Why can it not work for Wareham?

Well, Mr Goodall, whoever you are and wherever you live, I think you are going to have to accept that you cannot dictate to the residents of Wareham, or indeed the expressed wishes of their democratically elected council, in this way.

We will not be threatened with the closure of the crossing just so your trains can run ‘on time’. You are just going to have to adjust your schedules to suit the situation and if that means slowing the trains down to walking pace as they approach the crossing, so be it.

Pedestrians, cyclists, pram pushers, you are going to have to understand that several hundred tons of locomotive cannot just stop to suit your whims. We are all going to have to be tolerant, exercise patience, engage common sense and expect to wait for a few minutes

from time to time.

Better to arrive 10 minutes late in this world than 100 years early in the next.

Of course, some of us feel that with the way the railway system is going downhill in everything but costs, there will be no railway system at all by 2038.

Our parents and grandparents seemed to manage to run a reasonably efficient railway system on time for 150 years. But maybe there were fewer unions and fewer opportunities to be paid ‘strike pay’. If grandpa didn’t work, grandma and the kids didn’t eat.

THIEVES have stolen items from cars for many years. It seems that most of the goods stolen are from unlocked cars in people’s drives. Or from locked cars in local beauty spots or car parks. Now thieves don’t generally break into a car to see what they can find – they generally look through the window to see if it’s worth the risk breaking in. Please take the point.

What we learned – from experience – many years ago, when James lived in Parkstone, was very simple. Empty the glove box and any other visible storage and leave them open for all to see. Take everything out, including any sat-nav or kit attached to the windscreen with suckers. Use a cloth to wipe away any trace of the suckers. Take all your CDs, books, anything that moves, into the house. If you must lock the items in the car, lock them in the boot hidden under the boot carpet.

If you’re really worried about someone smashing a window to get in and search, then leave the car unlocked. A door lock should present no problems to a thief who’s after the car rather than its contents. If you really don’t want your best car stolen then also fit a proper Cat 3 alarm with a good loud siren, a proper immobiliser and ideally park another car across your drive.

There used to be an old

saying “statistics show that 25% of accidents are caused by drink-drivers which would seem to suggest that 75% of them aren’t, so maybe sober drivers should stay off the roads and leave them to the drunks”. Crass – but please take the point.

The Daily Mail is running a huge campaign about people using mobile phones at the wheel. Clearly it is becoming as anti-social as drink-driving and those found guilty will be fined until they bleed from the ears and nailed to lampposts as an example to others.

But again, if statistics show that 25% of car accidents are caused by people using mobile phones, then the same arguments must apply – 75% of accidents are caused by people who aren’t. Crass – but please take the point.

Then there’s ‘driving under the influence of drugs’. The Police have all the equipment to do random roadside drug tests and apparently about 600 people were caught in Dorset last year, so why aren’t the Police shouting it from the rooftops and replacing their annoying camera vans with mobile breath test units?

It’s almost like the Offence That Dare Not Speak Its Name. Ask David Sidwick how many drivers they’re now catching who are totally stoned. You’d be shocked!

Don’t be outraged. The Point? It’s not the minority that drink, use drugs or mobile phones that cause the most accidents, although clearly they contribute. It’s plain and simple bad driving, careless driving, selfish driving. They used to say, “it’s not the car that kills, it’s the driver”. Still true.

But in many cases, it’s not the driver – pedestrians and cyclists have just as much of an obligation to take care, to be aware of what’s going on, to stop. Look and listen and take that iPod out of your ears.

Parents and teachers have an obligation to hammer Road Safety, the Green Cross Code, whatever, into their children again and again and again.

Home & Garden

Time to plant ‘bee-fuelling stations’

by Sally Gregson

AS the days begin to lengthen, the sun becomes slightly warmer, the birds begin to form tunes from their apparently random notes – and the early bees are beginning to investigate their surroundings in search of potential nesting sites.

Many dormant queens spend the cold months tucked up in leaf-litter or under stones. In February, the winter sun gradually warms their cold bodies until they cannot resist the urge to fly. Their main aim is to re-charge their batteries and take on nourishment from those plants that obligingly flower in the early months. And we as gardeners can help them by planting lots of early bee-plants that will make fuelling stations – plants such as crocus, winter-

heathers, grape hyacinths and hellebores. It does not come as any chore to fill nooks and crannies in the border with these winter flowers. They sell themselves to us as gardeners. Then once the earlyflowering plants have finished, pulmonarias, rosemary, aquilegia and foxgloves could take over the supply of fresh nectar and pollen.

It is becoming increasingly important to feed our declining populations of bees – they are essential to mankind. They pollinate so many of our vegetables and fruit, that without their assistance our larders would soon become empty.

Last year a Royal

Spring Euphorbias

by Sally Gregson

IT’S at the very end of winter, just as the garden is beginning to wake up, that those big, structural euphorbias begin their show. They lift their heavy heads and fix their open, green eyes on every visitor to the garden.

These Euphorbias are so emblematic of Mediterranean gardens that they shout sunshine, warmth and spring. And they form good companions to the whole tribe of happy tulips and sunny bulbs. They associate well with other Mediterranean plants: the still-sleeping, evergreen cistus with their sticky, aromatic leaves; blue-flowered rosemarys and the contrasting upright spears of bearded irises and heads of agapanthus.. In our cooler, damper British climate Euphorbia characias seems nevertheless to endure rain and wind well, provided they are sheltered from the worst of the gales which could blow them over. Their architectural forms belong alongside a building or in the

Horticultural Society survey among its members of bumble bees found that white flowers received the most attention from bees, followed by purple and pink. The most sightings of bees were in suburban locations, that is, our gardens. And they were surprisingly fond of some plants we classify as weeds – dandelions, comfrey and green alkanet were among the top favourites, as well as winter honeysuckle, mahonia and flowering currant. These very easily grown plants, and some of our most common

woods, all provide a lifeline for bees at the beginning of spring. It’s simple to encourage them. But be warned – the ‘bee-bug’ is very infectious. Before you are aware you will be tending rows of hives dressed in gloves and veils. Soon you will be producing jars of summer honey from your own garden and you will have joined that army of apiarists that garden only for their bees.

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shelter of a garden wall. And their grey-green complexion marries well with bricks and mortar.

Euphorbia characias produces bracts of ‘flower’ with bright yellow ‘eyes’ or nectar glands, and Euphorbias characias ‘Black Pearl’ has very dark ‘eyes’ that are positively arresting. By June or July, the eyes will have popped open to explode seeds with quite a loud report. It can be clearly heard at the end of a sweltering summer day like gunshot. The resulting seedlings will put themselves everywhere – they choose some interesting places to germinate.

Notoriously, E. characias exudes a sticky sap which is extremely irritant. So, take care when handling the cut stems, and don’t rub your eyes or any other delicate part of the anatomy when they are cut down at the end of flowering. It is advisable to wear gloves to avoid the sap, but if it does get anywhere sensitive, wash it off immediately with lots of cold water as soon as you can, to avoid a nasty trip to A&E.

Business

Tourism businesses in awards spotlight

by editor@dorsetbiznews. co.uk

DORSET tourism businesses celebrated in numbers when nominees and sponsors of the 12th Dorset Tourism Awards gathered at Marsham Court Hotel in Bournemouth.

The event was the conclusion of five months of independent judging as hospitality businesses of all kinds were recognised for their excellence in customer

service, sustainability, digital communications and accessibility.

Guests enjoyed a presentation from Portlandbased Olympic stars Etienne Stott and Laura Baldwin, who shared their tips on the importance of winning and environmental protection.

of Winners award to Careys Secret Garden and a special Outstanding Contribution award to Prof Peter Jones for his work in skills development and accessibility.

61 winner trophies were presented – including a Winner

THIS YEAR’S WINNERS

n Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award, sponsored by Bournemouth University Business School: Gold –Marsham Court Hotel, Bournemouth; Silver – Brownsea Island – National Trust, Poole; Bronze – Studland Bay, National Trust, Studland.

n B&B and Guesthouse of the Year, sponsored by Goadsby: Gold – The Gresham Guest House, Weymouth; Silver – Channel View Guesthouse, Weymouth.

n Business Events Venue of the Year, sponsored by Saffery: Gold – Marsham Court Hotel, Bournemouth; Silver – Lighthouse, Poole; Bronze – Merley House Events, Wimborne; Commended – Dorset Museum & Art Gallery, Dorchester.

n Cafe/Tearoom of the Year, sponsored by Clipper: Gold – Compton Acres Café Tearooms, Poole; Silver – The Upwey Wishing Well Tearoom and Water Gardens, Weymouth; Bronze – Garden Gate Tea Room, Wareham.

n Camping & Caravanning Park of the Year, sponsored by Holidaymaker App: Gold – Monkton Wyld Holiday Park, Bridport; Silver – Back of Beyond Touring, Camping & Glamping Park, St Leonards and Coppet Hill Partners, Bridport; Bronze – South Lytchett Manor Caravan and Camping Park, Lytchett Minster. n Casual Dining Award, sponsored by Dorset Food & Drink: Gold – Sculpture by the Lakes, Pallington; Silver – Poco

Pizza, Lyme Regis.

n Dog Friendly Business of the Year, sponsored by Polygon Pets: Gold – Back of Beyond Touring, Camping & Glamping Park, St Leonards; Silver – Sculpture by the Lakes, Pallington; Commended –Lulworth Castle & Park, Wareham.

n Ethical, Responsible & Sustainable Tourism Award, sponsored by Voltshare: Gold – Careys Secret Garden, Wareham; Silver – West Dorset Leisure Holidays Highlands End, Bridport; Commended –Sandford Holiday Park Parkdean Resorts, Poole.

n Experience of the Year, sponsored by Les Enfants Terribles: Gold – Osprey Cruises – Birds of Poole Harbour, Wareham; Silver – Hidden Dorset Half Day

– Sea Kayak Dorset, Portland; Bronze – Alpaca Trekking Experience – Longthorns Farm, Wareham and Yoga Retreats, Mellulah Yoga Retreats, Evershot.

n Glamping Business of the Year, sponsored by Anytime Booking: Gold – Dorset Forest Garden Glamping, Beaminster; Silver – Loose Reins Dorset, Blandford Forum and Longthorns Farm, Wareham.

n Holiday Park of the Year, sponsored by Tozers: Gold – Durdle Door Holiday Park, Wareham.

n International Tourism Award, sponsored by Dorset LEP: Gold – Dorset Museum & Art Gallery, Dorchester.

n Large Hotel of the Year, sponsored

Amanda Park, of Visit Dorset, said: “Visit Dorset are proud sponsors of the Dorset Tourism Awards.

“As always, we were delighted to have the opportunity to celebrate the

by Booking.com: Gold – Christchurch

Harbour Hotel, Christchurch; Silver –Moonfleet Manor Hotel, Weymouth; Commended – Holiday Inn, Bournemouth and RNLI College, Poole.

n Large Visitor Attraction of the Year, sponsored by Resort Dorset: Gold –Dorset Museum & Art Gallery, Dorchester; Silver – Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park, Poole and Moors Valley Country Park and Forest, Ashley Heath; Bronze –Brownsea Island – National Trust, Poole; Commended – Nothe Fort (operated by Weymouth Civic Society), Weymouth and Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum, Bournemouth.

n Outstanding Contribution to Dorset Tourism, sponsored by NFU Mutual, Bournemouth: Professor Peter Jones.

n Pub of the Year, sponsored by Black Cow Vodka: Gold – The Acorn Inn, Dorchester; Silver – The Langton Arms, Blandford Forum.

n Restaurant of the Year, sponsored by Winederful: Gold – The Jetty, Christchurch; Silver – St Tropez Lounge, Poole and Upper Deck Restaurant, Christchurch; Bronze – Al Molo, Dorchester.

n Self-Catering Accommodation of the Year, sponsored by Quality in Tourism: Gold – Greenwood Grange, Dorchester; Silver – Manor Farm Barns Dorset, Melbury Abbas; Bronze – No. 2 Coastguards Cottage, Wareham.

sheer variety and quality of businesses across the whole of Dorset’s fantastic tourism industry, which contributes so much to our Dorset economy.

“Congratulations to all the finalists!”

Awards organiser, Robin Barker of Services for Tourism, added: “It’s such a great reward for the hardworking teams in tourism and hospitality to receive this recognition, and it’s so deserved.

“Congratulations to all the winners.”

Many of the Gold winners will also be nominated to represent Dorset in the national VisitEngland awards later in the year.

n Small Hotel of the Year, sponsored by Hospitality Assured: Gold – Summer Lodge Hotel, Evershot.

n Small Visitor Attraction of the Year, sponsored by AGI: Gold – Sculpture by the Lakes, Pallington; Silver – Careys Secret Garden, Wareham and Museum of East Dorset, Wimborne; Bronze –Highcliffe Castle, Highcliffe; Commended – West Bay Discovery Centre, Bridport.

n Tourism Event/Festival of the Year, sponsored by Tomorrows Travel: Gold – Arts by the Sea 2023, Bournemouth and Bournemouth Writing Festival 2024, Bournemouth; Silver – Inside Out Dorset 2023, Dorchester; Bronze – Swanage Regatta & Carnival 2024, Swanage; Commended – Rang Barse: Colours over Corfe Castle 2024, Wareham.

n Unsung Hero Award, sponsored by VisitDorset: Gold – Jenny Ashley, Monkton Wyld Holiday Park, Bridport; Silver – Charlie Brazier, Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park, Poole.

n Wedding Venue of the Year, sponsored by The Little House Dorset: Gold – Abbots Court, Blandford Forum; Silver – Lulworth Castle & Park, Wareham; Bronze – Highcliffe Castle, Highcliffe; Commended – Merley House Events, Wimborne.

n Winner of Winners, sponsored by Dorset LEP: Careys Secret Garden, Wareham.

Arts venue scores ‘Green win’

LIGHTHOUSE Poole is claiming a ‘Green win’ with the installation of LED lighting at the arts venue set to save thousands of pounds.

Lighthouse says the lighting in front of house and backstage areas, along with the placement of movement sensors, will save almost £10,000 and nearly eight

tonnes of greenhouse gases a year.

The works cost nearly £12,450, of which £5,000 was paid for by a decarbonisation grant from BCP Council with funding through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, and

Lighthouse making up the difference.

“This is a major Green win,” said Lighthouse chief executive Elspeth McBain.

“We’re on course to save 7.9 tonnes of CO2e with initial figures suggesting a financial

saving of just over £9,700 a year as a result – so the cost of the entire investment will be made back in just over a year.”

Elspeth added: “By far our biggest user of energy is our stage lighting/sound and in order to replace that with low energy we are continuing to actively seek funding support.”

Firms voice fears over NICs increase

RESULTS of a new survey have exposed the depth of concern among businesses in Dorset about the impact of a hike in employer National Insurance.

Some 91% of respondents in the Dorset Chamber poll said they were worried about the rise, set to take effect in April.

Many warned they will be forced to freeze recruitment and pay rises, cut jobs or halt investment.

Employers will have to pay National Insurance (NI) at 15% on salaries above £5,000, instead of 13.8% on salaries above £9,100 currently, from April.

The chamber has written to the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, and Dorset MPs about the survey results.

It has also invited the Chancellor to visit Dorset to speak to those businesses set to be hardest hit by the hike.

The rise is set to be introduced on April 6 and is expected to generate £25 billion a year.

Dorset Chamber chief executive, Ian Girling, said: “In what is already an extremely challenging business climate, these findings reflect very serious concerns around the impact of these increases.

“Many are around sustaining and growing employment, future pay rewards for a workforce that already faces severe cost of living increases, business growth and investment and, ultimately, the survival of many businesses.”

The results of the survey show: 58% of respondents are ‘very concerned’ at the increases, 33% are ‘somewhat concerned’ and 9% are ‘not concerned’.

A wide range of businesses and employers – chamber members and non-members –from different sectors took part in the survey.

Businesses responding stated the impact means they will: Stop recruitment, 32% of businesses; unable to make pay rises 54%; reduce investment 45%; see a negative impact on profitability 71%; see a negative impact on cash flow 43%; may need to reduce staff levels 42%.

Dorset Chamber, with nearly 700 members representing 37,000 employees, has been campaigning against the rises on behalf of businesses in the county.

IT services provider ITCS, which works across the UK and has operations in Dorchester, said: “The increase in National Insurance contributions will raise employment costs, forcing many businesses to reduce staff or freeze hiring to manage the financial burden.

“This is likely to result in higher unemployment, lower consumer spending and a negative impact on economic growth.”

The Healthbus Trust is a charity which provides healthcare to people experiencing homelessness in Bournemouth and the surrounding area.

It said: “The recent government autumn budget, coupled with increase in National Insurance for charities, places an even greater strain on an already overstretched sector.

support, threatening the stability of services that vulnerable people rely on every day.”

Mr Girling added: “The NI rises come as businesses also face the prospect of employment law changes as part of the Government’s ongoing tax on jobs and growth.

“It will have a doublewhammy impact which has the potential to severely affect businesses and the local economy.

“As well as the Chancellor, we are very keen to hear from our MPs about this issue and about how they are going to stand up for business in the county going forward.”

A total of 105 businesses responded to the survey, collectively employing nearly 8,000 staff.

Email:

info@whizzbits.co.uk

www.whizzbits.co.uk

“Charities play a vital role in improving lives, enhancing wellbeing and often step in where public services fall short.

“These additional financial burdens risk limiting their ability to deliver essential

Dorset Chamber’s chief executive, Ian Girling

Portrait sells for £36,000

AUCTION houses often bear their quality in bringing the marvels of yesterday into today.

Bygone eras weaving into modern times through the filter of auction houses and the conduit of the auctioneer.

However, the artistic excellence of the contemporary art world deserves equal attention, and Duke’s Art & Design post-1880 auction serves to celebrate it.

Showcasing the majesty of

the modern art world with names like David Hockney, Henri Matisse, Elisabeth Frink and more.

The most recent Art & Design post-1880 sale achieved some magnificent results, including a wonderful full-length portrait of the Talbot Sisters by Wilfrid Gabriel de Glehn, which sold for £36,000, and a rare, signed David Hockney print which made £10,000, inclusive of buyer’s premium.

The first Art & Design post-1880 auction of the year is coming up on Thursday, April 17, with consignments now open.

To consign, email enquiries@ dukes-auctions.com. The last date for entries is Thursday, March 6.

Wilfrid Gabriel De Glehn’s (1870-1951) The Talbot Sisters sold at Duke’s Auctioneers for £36,000

Dorset’s jewellery designers

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

IN my last article, I described how our beautiful county has inspired jewellery design over the years, providing materials and inspiration to many designers.

But did you know that Dorset has two of its very own designers who are well renowned and much respected in the jewellery industry?

Guy and Joan Sydenham were influential British ceramic artists known for their distinctive pottery jewellery.

Guy Sydenham (1916-2005) was a master potter who worked at Poole Pottery and was renowned for his innovative designs and technical expertise.

His wife, Joan, collaborated with him and their pieces, often made from hand-carved stoneware and porcelain, featured natural, organic shapes inspired by the sea and landscape.

Many were finished with intricate glazes and textures, making each piece unique.

The Sydenhams’ work gained recognition for its

originality, attracting collectors and pottery enthusiasts, and their jewellery remains highly sought-after for its artistry and historical significance.

I’m lucky to have sold several pieces

Dorrie Nossiter (1893-1977) was a British jewellery designer known for her intricate, nature-inspired pieces.

She specialised in vibrant, floral motifs using semiprecious stones such as amethysts, peridots and citrines, often set in gold or silver.

Her work was influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement, emphasising handmade craftsmanship and organic designs.

Though she was born in Birmingham, she moved to Parkstone, near Poole, when her mother remarried and lived in a house called Craftnant.

Both Norrie and her mother were keen gardeners and she clearly drew inspiration from the natural beauty of the garden at the stunning property in Penn Hill Avenue.

Today, her pieces remain highly collectible, admired for their rich colour combinations and delicate, romantic style.

Typical ceramic bead design by Guy & Joan Sydenham that was sold through Heirlooms

Arts & Entertainment

Dracula – a century on

A NEW adaptation of Bram Stoker’s classic gothic thriller, Dracula, is coming to Poole Lighthouse just over a century after the iconic title character’s first official appearance on stage.

Hamilton Dean staged his landmark production of Dracula in 1924 in Derby.

Dracula is presented by Blackeyed Theatre and the cast of six includes MayaNika Bewley playing Mina Harker/Dr Hennessey; David Chafer as Abraham van Helsing/Count Dracula; Richard Keightley as Dr John Seward/Count Dracula; Pelé Kelland-Beau playing Jonathan Harker/Quincey Morris; Marie Osman playing

Lucy Westenra/Renfield; and Harry Rundle as Arthur Holmwood/Count Dracula.

Writer and director, Nick Lane, said: “Dracula is such a cracking work – tense, dense and dripping with menace.

“I wanted to tell the classic story, but also to try and explore certain elements within it in a slightly different way.”

Dracula runs from Thursday to Saturday, March 13-15, with performances at 7pm on Thursday, 7.45pm on Friday, and 2pm and 7.45pm on Saturday.

For tickets and information, phone 01202 280000 or visit www. lighthousepoole.co.uk.

Sounds of the sixties

SIXTIES music stars Herman’s Hermits are bringing their 60th anniversary tour to the Regent in Christchurch.

The group still rank as one of the most popular music acts the UK has ever produced with 23 hit singles, 10 hit albums and more than 80 million records sold.

On top of that have come successful tours in the UK, North America, Europe, Australia and the wider world.

Herman’s Hermits formed in Manchester in 1964 and after being taken under the wing of producer Mickie Most scored the number 1 hit I’m Into Something Good.

Many more chart-toppers

Students get connected

STUDENTS from The Swanage School will be performing Gary McNair’s play No Regrets at The Mowlem in Swanage next week.

The playwright spoke to people at all stages and in all walks of life about regret and the play marks the result of those conversations.

No Regrets is a collection of scenes from the silly to the profound, that charts individuals’ relationship with

followed including No Milk Today, Silhouettes, There’s A Kind Of Hush, My Sentimental Friend and Something’s Happening.

Herman’s Hermits have also starred in three films and made countless television appearances worldwide including The Royal Variety Performance and in the USA The Ed Sullivan Show five times.

Herman’s Hermits are in Christchurch on Thursday (March 6) at 7.30pm.

TWO major British jazz musicians are set to play as a duo at The Mowlem in Swanage. Saxophonist Iain Ballamy will be teaming up with pianist Gareth Williams on Saturday, March 8, at 7.30pm.

The show is presented by SoundCellar and Swanage Jazz Festival.

the things they should have done but didn’t and the things they shouldn’t have done, but did.

No Regrets is performed by students as part of the National Theatre’s Connections programme, which brings together some of the UK’s most exciting writers with talented young people across the country.

The play, which contains language some viewers may find offensive, is directed by Harry Peake and will be performed on Wednesday, March 12.

Comedy, cricket and the state of the planet

HOST of Radio 4’s The News Quiz and member of the BBC’s Test Match Special team, Andy Zaltzman, is coming to The Tivoli theatre in Wimborne. Zaltzman, one of the UK’s leading satirical comedians, will assesses the state of Planet Earth and its most famous and controversial species – the human race – when he stops off

on his The Zaltgeist Tour.

Zaltzman has chaired The News Quiz since 2020 and has helped the long-running flagship topical comedy show earn multiple awards, critical acclaim and a growing listenership.

He has also hosted The Bugle, one of the world’s longest-running and best-loved

comedy podcasts, since 2007 –alongside John Oliver until 2015 – and with numerous co-hosts from numerous continents since 2016.

The Bugle recently passed the 600-episode mark and has clocked up about 100 million total downloads.

Zaltzman is also a professional cricket statistician

and has been a member of the Test Match Special team since 2016.

He has toured in the USA, India and Australia, wrote a book about the 2008 economic crisis and appeared in Channel 4’s Taskmaster last autumn.

Andy Zaltzman is at The Tivoli on Wednesday (March 5) at 7.30pm.

Bram Stoker’s classic gothic thriller is at Lighthouse Poole

Just jazz at summer festival...

JAZZ and nothing but jazz is promised when the 34th Swanage Jazz Festival is staged this summer.

Festival chair, Paul Kelly, said that hundreds of jazz groups wanted to play the event, so it did not have to spread its net wider to include other genres.

Headline names in the 40-band main programme include a debut performance by international saxist Andy Sheppard and his quartet who headline Saturday night.

Elaine Delmar, with her trio of Barry Green, Simon Thorpe and Bobby Worth, will sing Cole Porter and George Gershwin tunes when she headlines Friday night.

Other headliners are Soothsayers, Hejira –celebrating Joni Mitchell, Pete Long – Jazz at the Mowlemonic, The Sultan Stevenson Trio, Ian Bateman’s Tribute to Louis Armstrong and Rainey’s Revue.

Paul Kelly, chair of Swanage Jazz Festival, said: “We are incredibly pleased to bring another top quality jazz

programme to Swanage.

“We have over 300 jazz groups wanting to play the festival and have thus been able to resist the temptation to book soul, rock or pop acts.

“So, audiences will get nothing but jazz for their money.

“That said, it’s always a difficult balancing act to both celebrate the best of the past and the best of now and what is to come.

“I think once again we have another good balance of talents and musical styles and hope our audiences will agree.”

The festival is being held at venues around the town but the main ones are the marquee at Sandpit Field, The Mowlem Theatre and The Mowlem Studio.

The festival programme starts on Friday, July 11, at 4pm and runs through to Sunday, July 13, at 10.30pm.

Last year’s popular Festival Village will be back with more traders, a bigger Stretch Tent programme, more Jazz Yoga sessions and a return visit by Fingers and Toes and its

interactive jazz for five to 10-year-olds.

The Festival Fringe will feature top local jazz talent in hotels and bars across Swanage.

Tickets priced £145 weekend stroller, £45 Friday stroller and £85 Saturday and

Humour, joy and disco

VIVID, rebellious and joyful, Mid Life, a frank, comedic exposé of menopausal midlife, is being presented at The Mowlem in Swanage next month.

The life-affirming show, packed with razor sharp humour and disco, sold out in venues

Sunday stroller are available at reduced rates until June 30 from www.swanagejazz festival.co.uk/tickets.

Residents of the BH19 post code can get a 10% discount but will need to buy tickets from Swanage Information Centre in Shore Road.

across the UK in 2020 and has now been rewritten and revamped.

It draws its themes from real life experiences of women in midlife and ends with a dance party for everyone to join in.

Diverse City will present Mid Life on Saturday, March 15, at 7.30pm. Tickets, priced £18, are available online at www.themowlem.com or from the box office.

Swanage Jazz Festival headliners Elaine Delmar (top) and Andy Sheppard, and Hattie Whitehead of Hejira

How classic films offer a ‘lifeline’

DEMENTIA-FRIENDLY film screenings are providing a ‘lifeline’ to people who might otherwise feel isolated and marginalised.

Built around a core programme of classic film musicals, screenings are held on the third Thursday of the month and typically attract 40-50 people.

“We’ve been coming here for about 18 months, and we love seeing the old musicals,” said Derek Woodruff whose wife, Maureen, lives with dementia.

“We came to the BSO most weeks for 22 years, but now we livestream the concerts, so we’re regular patrons of Lighthouse and joined the Friends scheme.

“The thing I have difficulty with in the evenings is the parking because if I can’t park on the front, I have to ask someone to look after Maureen while I go and park the car.

“It’s not so bad in the daytime and we can have a bite to eat first, which saves me cooking when I get home!

“So, yes, these screenings are a bit of a lifeline.”

Although not exclusively for people with dementia, the screenings are particularly suitable for those who live with the condition, including their partners, family members and other carers.

The screenings allow for audience members to talk, get up or leave the cinema.

The volume is reduced slightly, house lights are left on low so that people can see to move around and there is an interval to give cinema goers a comfort break.

“It can be a rare chance for people to see their loved ones enjoying the moment and people regularly sing along,” said Anna Shiels, who facilitates the Dementia Friendly screenings.

“We have some regulars who come on their own, others come with their grandchildren, some with friends, as well as family.

“Often, one of the first things to go when people live with dementia is their social network, so we try to create a sense of familiarity where people can feel safe and supported.”

Alongside the vintage musical, more modern films such as The Blues Brothers, Ghostbusters and Back to the Future have been shown, as have the two Mamma Mia movies.

“I’ve been coming with my mum, Sybil, for about three years now and we really look

Spotlight Diary

forward to it,” said Kris.

“Mum lives in a residential setting, so these trips out are really precious. I love watching her enjoying the films and afterwards we’ll sometimes sit and talk about the film, which is just lovely.”

A veteran of 50 years of appearing in local musical theatre productions, often with her late husband, 93-year-old Joy Salt is in her element.

“I really look forward to coming and a lot of these films I can remember having seen when they first came out,” she said.

“I know a lot of the songs. They showed Calamity Jane recently and I remember I played Adelaide Adams in that one. It was great fun.”

Daughter, Julie, agreed: “This is such a wonderful resource for all sorts of people to be able to get together and enjoy a film – and the tea and biscuits, of course!

“Anna is lovely, she makes sure she knows everyone’s name and welcomes them all. There’s a real community here.”

Diary entries are £6 plus VAT per entry. The deadline for the March 17 issue is NOON on Friday, March 10. Call on 01963 400186 or email adverts@blackmorevale.net. Please call prior to attending events listed to ensure they are still on.

MARCH 2025

TUESDAY FRIDAY

19.30 WAREHAM CAMERA CLUB. Parish Hall 7.30pm Wareham unless on Zoom. Visitors welcome - £3 Zoom link available from website 4th March ZoomSCPF League Competition. 11th League 5 - Open Print & PDI Competitions. 18th Zoom-Carolyn Colgate-Composition-A personal Way. 25th 60th Anniversary Star Speaker-Andrew McCarthy, Close up & Macro Nature.

19:30 COME AND SING WITH SWANAGE CHOIR the Belvedere Singers this spring. We rehearse every Tuesday from 7.30-9.30pm at Emmanuel Baptist Church, 160 Victoria Avenue, Swanage BH19 1AZ. Come and try us out for two weeks on any Tuesday. There’s no obligation to join after the free trials. Also there are no auditions and there’s ample parking at the church! Contact Linda McMorrow on 07943 442919 for more information or check out our website www.belvedersingers.org.uk

Every FRIDAY: 14:00-16:00 BINGO: Cary Hall, Mistover Road, Wareham, BH20 4BY

SATURDAY

18.30 WHIST DRIVE at St Mary’s Church, Rectory Classroom, Swanage. Every Saturday. Tea and coffee provided. Very friendly group. Contact Richard: 01929 553516

Hooray for Hollywood – and the West End

MUSIC from the stage and the movies will feature in a concert at The Mowlem in Swanage on Friday (March 7).

A 14-piece ensemble from Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra (BSO, guided by a presenter from the orchestra, will serve up music from Chocolat, James Bond, Moulin Rouge, The High Pass, Toy Story, Harry Potter, The Artist and more.

West End to Hollywood is presented by Dorset rural arts charity Artreach in conjunction

with the BSO – tickets and further information are available online at www.artsreach.co.uk.

TIME is running out to see a comprehensive exhibition of work by artists who have celebrated the wide-ranging character of the Isle of Purbeck at the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum in Bournemouth. The exhibition, which concludes on Sunday, March 16, honours the memory of Swanage resident, the late Robert (Bob) Field.

What’s on! What’s on!

Artsreach Presents – BSO West End to Hollywood Friday 7th March 7:30pm

Join an ensemble of fourteen musicians for a brand new concert of film and stage inspired music

Mid Life

Presented By Diverse City

Saturday 15th March 7:30pm

Mid Life is a frank, comedic exposé of menopausal Mid Life, this life-affirming show is packed with humour and disco

It draws its themes from real life experiences of women in midlife

Kinky Boots

Presented by Swanage Musical Theatre Company

27th, 28th, 29th March 7:30pm

This musical tells the true story about a struggling shoe factory that will lift your spirits to high-heeled heights!

Wonderful world of folk

HEARTFELT, eclectic folk songs from across the world, with a good dose of original material thrown in, is promised when Jaclarabag – pictured –visit Corfe Castle.

The group is a new collaboration of three of Cornwall’s most seasoned theatre musicians, performers and composers.

It features Jim Carey on

accordion, trombone and guitar; Giles King on clarinet, bagpipes, whistle and saxophone; and Claire Ingleheart on fiddle, clarinet and baritone.

Jaclarabag are at Corfe Castle Village Hall on Sunday, March 16, at 7.30pm.

Tickets and further information are available at www.artsreach.co.uk.

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Local Services

Tea company backs mental health charity

by editor@dorsetbiznews.

co.uk

MENTAL health charity Dorset Mind has received a boost for 2025 thanks to a £5,000 donation from Dorset Tea.

The partnership aims to create a community where living with and talking about mental health becomes acceptable for everyone.

Dorset Mind, a self-funded charity, is one of more than 100 local Minds that provide essential mental health services in communities across England and Wales.

The donation from Dorset Tea will help fund its vital services throughout the year, alongside providing tea and support for key fundraising events and initiatives.

Nick Rowe, corporate and major donor fundraiser at Dorset Mind, said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with Dorset Tea for 2025.

“A cup of tea brings comfort, warmth and emotional grounding, often in challenging situations.

“We’re very grateful for both the vital funds and, of course, the tea – supporting our

services, events, volunteers and individuals throughout 2025.”

Lauren Forecast, brand manager for Dorset Tea, added: “We’re thrilled to be supporting Dorset Mind, a local charity making a real difference in our community.

“Their tireless efforts to provide mental health support and open conversations are vital, and we’re proud to help –with both funding and, of course, tea!”

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