The Purbeck Gazette = Issue 338

What’s inside this issue...

Skye kayak challenge in aid of #Willdoes

THE #Willdoes charity, which supports young people’s physical and mental health and wellbeing, is set benefit from a 289km solo kayak challenge around the Isle of Skye.

Kevin Spear, who was set to begin the challenge last week, is raising funds and awareness of the charity, founded in memory of William Paddy, who grew up near Swanage and took his own life aged 14.

Kevin, 58, is taking on Skye’s dramatic and challenging coastline alone, without back-up support.

He is carrying all his own food, collecting water from local streams and wild camping on remote beaches each night.

He is having to battle strong tides, unpredictable weather and the Scotland’s wild waters, all requiring physical

endurance, mental resilience and self-sufficiency.

Kevin only began sea kayaking during the Covid pandemic, after being unable to pursue his primary passion, scuba diving.

He is pushing his own limits while shining a light on the growing need for mental health support among young people.

In 2022, he circumnavigated Cornwall – covering 370 miles – but with a support team.

“One of the reasons I’m doing this solo is because I wanted it to be a genuine challenge,” Kevin said.

“If you’re asking people to donate, the effort should be worthy of their support.

“I hope this journey will spark people’s imaginations.”

Kevin is excited to be immersed in Skye’s natural

beauty but admits some parts – especially the wild camping and unpredictable weather –are daunting.

He aims to complete the route in nine days, although delays could stretch the journey longer.

Kevin, a close friend of William Paddy’s mother, Lesley, aims to raise £5,000 for #Willdoes.

Kevin, a member and trustee of Poole Harbour Canoe Club, taught William how to scuba dive and remembers him as a

brave, outgoing and extremely happy youngster.

“William was up for anything! It was heartbreaking,” Kevin said.

“This is about more than raising money. It’s about making sure young people get the help they need before it’s too late.”

To support Kevin’s challenge or learn more, visit www.skyepaddle.co.uk or donate via JustGiving at www. justgiving.com/page/kevinspear-1.

Kevin Spear taught William Paddy how to scuba dive

Cordite Way provides link to nature

THE Cordite Way, a recently designated right of way at Holton Heath linking residents to nature and views across Poole Harbour, has been officially opened.

Poole Harbour Trails Community Group (PHTCG) welcomed Mid Dorset and North Poole MP, Vikki Slade, to cut the ribbon to open the footpath, in a ceremony also attended by leaders from Dorset and BCP councils and stakeholders.

Ms Slade said: “This is a special place and a significant contribution to providing access to green spaces for

wellbeing and health.

“I look forward to its continued development to support local active travel.”

The event was followed by a group walk through woodlands to two new viewpoints overlooking the Wareham reach with Arne Peninsular and the Purbeck hills as backdrops.

Members of the community group, including the Friends of the Cordite Way (FoCW), put in 1,200 hours of volunteer work since September 2023 to create the path.

Andy Hadley, chair of PHTCG and a BCP councillor,

Solar & Tidal Predictions - April '25

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said: “Our group aims to celebrate, waymark and improve links right around Poole Harbour.

“Completion of this effort is a significant milestone, but our overall aim is to connect Purbeck via the Cordite Way with Hamworthy and onward to other walking and cycling links in south east Dorset.

“New volunteers are always welcome’.

The development of the new path, supervised by Dorset Council’s senior ranger, involved volunteers carrying out extensive clearance work.

Jade-Aden sponsored clearance of deep mulch and debris by the main ditch, and drainage, information boards and benches were funded thanks to a grant from Wareham St Martin Solar Community Fund and local businesses.

Beryl Ezzard, councillor for Wareham on Dorset Council, said: “It has taken 15 long arduous years to achieve with the brilliant teamwork of the Poole Harbour Trails, Friends of the Cordite Way group and the parish council, not forgetting the Lees Estate and Jade-Aden.

“We would not have the Cordite Way to enjoy today without that commitment’.

Cllr Ezzard submitted an application to designate the route as a right of way to the then Dorset County Council in 2010.

11 years later it was refused,

but an appeal overturned this decision and the designation was confirmed in 2022.

Aden Gibson, representing Jade-Aden, said: “The Cordite Way has an interesting historical background story linked with the industrial estate and we at Jade-Aden are happy to support this important community project.”

Nick Ireland, Dorset Council’s Leader, said: “A new right of way is a rare occurrence these days.

“As a strong advocate of active travel, Dorset Council is proud to support the Cordite Way’s ongoing development.”

The Cordite Way is named after the former Royal Naval Cordite Factory (RNCF) at Holton Heath and associated Admiralty railway line that linked it to Rockley Jetty.

The route uses existing rights of way from Sandford, via Holton Heath station and the Holton Heath trading estate, and the newly designated right of way towards the former Rockley Jetty opposite Rockley Sands.

The path closely follows the former Admiralty railway line that took cordite, the propellant used in shells for naval guns during both world wars, to Chatham and Gosport to the shell filling factories.

Initially by sea transfer, this changed to rail transport in 1938 when threats from sea attack were foreseen.

The RNCF began production in 1916 and closed in 1957.

Peveril Ledge, Swanage

Vikki Slade MP cuts the ribbon at the opening ceremony

Men’s Shed cooks up new school kitchens

SCHOOL children at Wareham St Mary Primary are rolling up their sleeves and getting stuck into making creative concoctions in their new outdoor kitchen thanks to the handiwork of the local Men’s Shed team.

The new ‘kitchens’ will support learning for children as part of a wider school initiative to improve its outdoor educational experience.

Wooden pallets were recycled and transformed into two outdoor kitchens by a team of volunteers from Wareham Area’s Men’s Shed who came along to the school to unveil the project to pupils.

Headteacher, Nicole Davids, said: “The children have loved exploring our new mud kitchen

area, engaging in pretend and messy play by ‘cooking’ with mud, water, pine cones and sticks.

“It allows pupils to explore traditional ways of playing and using their imaginations.

“We are incredibly grateful to Men’s Shed for their generosity and hard work.”

The new mud kitchens have been introduced as part of Wareham St Mary Primary School’s drive to be an OPAL – Outdoor Play And Learning – recognised school.

The programme, implemented by hundreds of schools in the UK, is designed to improve opportunities for physical activity, socialisation, creativity and enjoyment through outdoor play.

Sunday 4th & 18th May 2025

Either 10am and 2pm

No need to pre-book. Just turn up!

Come and try this wonderful outdoor game!

Members will be on hand to assist.

Bowls will be provided.

Please wear trainers/flat shoes/no heels.

-Fresh Air - Stay Active - Challenge Yourself

-Make new friends - Easy to learn, tricky to Master

For more information contact: Barrie Tatman, Club Secretary T: 01929 421162 | W: www.swanagebowlingclub.org.uk F: facebook.com/Swanagebowlsclub

Entrance at Beach Gardens, Northbrook Road or Cauldon Ave, BH19 1PG

Members of the local Men’s Shed with youngsters and the outdoor kitchens at Wareham St Mary Primary

WH Smith to shut stores in Dorset

WH Smith is to disappear from Dorset high streets after the firm sold its shops for £76 million.

Hobbycraft owner, Modella Capital, has purchased 480 stores in retail parks, shopping centres and on high streets, and said it would rebrand them as TGJones shops.

WH Smith has stores in Dorset in Swanage, Poole, Dorchester, Wimborne, Christchurch, Sherborne, Shaftesbury, Bridport and Blandford, with about 5,000 staff across the country set to be affected by the sale.

However, the deal does not include the WH Smith brand, its travel shops at airports and

railway stations, or stores in hospitals.

WH Smith group chief executive, Carl Cowling, said: “High Street is a good business – it is profitable and cash generative with an experienced and high-performing management team.

“However, given our rapid international growth, now is the right time for a new owner to take the High Street business forward.”

While confirming plans to rebrand the shops, Modella said it would keep Post Office outlets and Toys R Us concessions in place.

The firm added it would be

‘business as usual’ during the sale process but would not comment on whether jobs would be cut in the coming weeks and months.

Art for air ambulance

DORSET 2020 ArtSociety is holding an open art exhibition which will raise funds for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. The exhibition will have framed paintings, unframed paintings, artists’ greeting cards and a raffle.

It is at the Downstairs Lounge, Church House, Wimborne, from Wednesday to Tuesday, April 23-29, 10am-5pm daily. Admission is free but donations to the charity are always welcome.

Modella Capital, a private equity firm, owns Hobbycraft, as well as stakes in Crafters’ Companion and The Original Factory Shop.

The WH Smith shop in Swanage is closing PHOTO: Google

A problem shared: New drop-in service

NEW Access Wellbeing drop-in spaces are opening in Swanage, Wareham and Lytchett Matravers, offering mental health and wellbeing support to anyone aged 18 and over with no appointment needed.

The new services provide a welcoming space to find support on the issues that matter to each individual. That might be mental health and emotional wellbeing, or practical help on topics such as finances, work, housing or support for carers.

Residents can drop in at any time during opening hours and the friendly team will be on-hand to listen, then help people access the right support.

Andy Rammell, wellbeing coordinator for Access Wellbeing in Purbeck, said: “We know that sometimes, the

A Warm Welcome

No matter whether you are enjoying a day out in the

or

challenges we face in our day-to-day life can impact on our mental health – but it can be hard to know where to turn.

“We’re delighted to be opening new drop-in services in the heart of Purbeck’s communities, giving people a welcoming space to go if they need to talk.

“We offer person-centred support, so whatever’s on your mind, we’re here to help.

“You might be worried about

Wellbeing coordinators

Andy Rammell and Nicci MansfieldJones

money, struggling with a housing situation, having a tough time in a relationship, feeling stressed about work – or simply having a bad day.

“Drop in to see us and we can take the time to listen, then connect you to further specialist support and advice if you need it.”

The new Purbeck Access Wellbeing drop-in spaces will initially be located in: Swanage at The Focus Centre, Chapel

Lane (BH19 2PW) open every Monday 10am-4pm; Wareham at the Family Hub, Worgret Road (BH20 4PH) open every Tuesday 10am-3pm; Lytchett Matravers at the Youth Hall, High Street (BH16 6BJ) open every other Wednesday 10am3pm.

Venues, days and times may change based on the needs of each community, and more spaces are planned for the coming months – up-to-date information on each venue is available at www. dorsetaccesswellbeing.co.uk/ community_drop_in_spaces.

The new Purbeck drop-in spaces are part of the Access Wellbeing community mental health programme, which provides hubs and drop-in spaces across Dorset, offering easy access to early help that can prevent concerns from escalating.

More details on the full Access Wellbeing programme and the support available across Dorset are available at www. dorsetaccesswellbeing.co.uk.

Plans for 145 village homes

CONTROVERSIAL plans

which could see 145 houses built on land west of Crossways in Purbeck have been submitted.

Hallam Land wants to build the homes, along with a ‘suitable alternative natural greenspace (SANG), next to the Oaklands Park residential estate and six miles from Dorchester.

The SANG would include wildflower planting areas and a network of accessible footpaths connecting to the wider public rights of ways network.

Hallam said its design aims to be an attractive and functional greenspace that supports recreation while delivering ecological and environmental benefits.

A consultation was held about the plans on September 10, 2024, at which residents could comment on the proposal.

Some residents raised concerns about the potential impact on the West Link – the preferred vehicle access point for the development – as well as the impact new houses would have on existing infrastructure, such as GPs.

One person who commented said: “Stop expanding

Crossways without any infrastructure improvements. It’s now the size of a town.

“The tiny GP already cannot cope with numbers of patients. Stop destroying our countryside!”

The individual added that the plans would be ‘fought heavily’ and that a ‘large group’ of residents opposed the plans.

Others pointed to the slow sale of new-build houses in the area, prompting questions over whether the new houses were needed.

In the plans, Hallam said Dorset Council had identified the site as a draft housing allocation within the emerging Dorset Local Plan.

Plans to build 49 houses there were withdrawn in January 2018.

Residents previously told the Purbeck Gazette that Crossways was being used as a ‘dumping ground’ for homes, as 140 new homes were approved to the west of the village in 2019.

CJ Shaw said: “Once again, Crossways gets used as a dumping ground to help the council to meet its housing targets.

“There are hundreds of other villages that could take their share of new development and be extended, even slightly, but it always seems that we are the easy target for urbanisation for no other reason than the greed of landowners willing to sell.

“Where are the extra infrastructure requirements to cope with this increase in population? Bigger schools? More shops and amenities? Better roads? Better medical facilities? Increased bus services?

“Where is the outrage that prime agricultural land is to be given over to yet another poorly planned housing estate, with trees destroyed and wild spaces concreted over, while our historical heritage is once again smashed to pieces?

“At this rate, the village will soon become a small town with

no central hub, little local employment opportunities and all the social problems that this will bring.”

Others suggested the national housing crisis means that tough decisions must be made to ensure everyone has a home.

Mr N Pridmore said: “There is such a crisis people can’t get on the ladder anymore.”

He added: “Correct infrastructure is always looked at with planning. Crossways is a dump. Why not want to improve it? It needs it.

“Plus, it has quick access to Weymouth and Dorchester with great train links.

“That is an ideal location, and it has scope, huge scope for growth.”

To view and comment on the plans, visit planning. dorsetcouncil.gov.uk and search reference P/OUT/2025/01234.

Exploring Purbeck – Studland

by retired Dorset rights of way officer Chris Slade

THIS walk takes you for about seven miles through stunning countryside with interesting history, both natural and man-made. Nearly all the area is Access Land so you don’t have to stick to the paths but can wander freely. Start at the church, which is Saxon in origin but was modified by the

Normans. I don’t think stained glass had been invented then as the

Take the path leading north through the cemetery to meet a road taking you left, west, to a corner by a pond and a loo. Go south down the road for a short distance then take a path to the west which soon meet a bridleway that takes you first north then south-west uphill

across heathland. At the Fishing Barrow tumulus turn right and head north-east past the Agglestone Rock.

Soon you’ll meet a bridleway that takes you north-west across Godlingston Heath. Then join a National Trust path that leads north to join a path that takes you east-south-east to join a road. Turn left and walk along the

road, part of the Poole Harbour Trail, for a mile, then turn right and take a path across rather soggy heathland south-east to join the South West Coast Path which takes you south along the beach for over a mile.

When you reach the National Trust car park weave your way up through it to join a road that takes you south, back to where you started.

Those opposed to the development say the nearby GP would suffer PHOTOS: Hallam Land

church has none.

Ukrainian ambassador says ‘we will win war’

THE Ukrainian ambassador to the UK has opened a new exhibition at The Tank Museum in Bovington about the RussiaUkraine war – and ended his speech by stating: ‘We will win’.

General Valerii Zaluzhnyi, a four-star general and former chief of staff of his country’s armed forces, also offered his uniform to the museum.

He thanked those behind the exhibition and the British people for their ‘support, solidarity and true friendship.’

The exhibition, Ukraine: Armoured Warfare in the Modern Word, includes tanks and poignant possessions of refugees who fled their country after the invasion in 2022.

General Zaluzhnyi took the opportunity to mention the anniversary of the liberation of the ‘Hero City’ of Chernihiv.

He said: “The city became a symbol of resilience. It was

General Valerii Zaluzhnyi at The Tank Museum

surrounded, cut off from communication, lacking weapons – but full of faith in freedom.

“Chernihiv held out because it was defended by ordinary Ukrainians – volunteers, members of the territorial defence and soldiers. Armed not only with rifles but with unbreakable spirit.

“The same spirit is what this exhibition represents. Not technology for its own sake, but

Award recognises efforts

DORSET and BCP Home Library Service (HLS) has been awarded one of 13 High Sheriff Awards at a ceremony in Poundbury.

The service is offered by the Royal Voluntary Service. High Sheriff, Anthony Woodhouse, who presented the award, said: “Royal

armour that became a shield to protect human life.”

The general described the history of the tank and their importance but noted: “Even the strongest armoured vehicles are losing their advantage in the face of new threats – drones, precision strikes and digital intelligence.”

He concluded his speech by stating: “We will win.”

He toured the exhibition and was moved to meet Ukrainian

Voluntary Service is an exceptional charity that brings the library service to anybody who can no longer reach their local facility.

“Not only does the Home Library Service enable people to continue to access the joy of reading for longer but also provides an important antidote to feelings of loneliness and isolation.”

The award was presented to Maria Jacobson, the service manager for Dorset and BCP Home Library Service.

Mrs Jacobson said: “I am here representing our 250 volunteers across the area who provide this important service to almost 800 people in our community who are unable to access their local library, choosing and delivering books every month.

“This is a free service, combining the delivery of individually chosen books with

refugees, some of whose stories are told.

He said: “This exhibition is not only about machines. It is about people. About Ukrainian soldiers who fight not for new borders, but for the right to live in their own country. About British instructors who shared their knowledge. About families who became refugees but never lost hope.”

Chris Price, museum director, said: “It was a great privilege to have the Ukrainian ambassador open our new exhibition.

“After looking around the exhibits he met some Ukrainian refugees and was clearly moved. He also offered us his uniform, which is extremely generous.

“In his speech he talked about the history of the tank and obviously has a deep understanding of armoured vehicles, but also the importance of new technologies.”

Tobias Ellwood, a former MP who served with Royal Green Jackets, said: “The exhibition explains the horrors of conflict as it unfolds every day. That’s why it is so impressive.”

service manager for Dorset and BCP Home Library Service, and Anthony Woodhouse, High Sheriff of Dorset

a much-anticipated visit by a trusted volunteer.

“We are not well-known, despite our reach, and this special recognition means a lot to us and will no doubt help us to spread the word and reach many more people across Dorset and BCP.”

To find out more about the Home Library Service and how to sign up as a reader, contact Maria on 01305 236666 or e-mail maria. jacobson@royalvoluntary service.org.uk.

Maria Jacobson,

Priced out: Survey assesses housing need

WORK is under way to find out how many people with a local connection to Church Knowle, East Creech and Furzebrook want to live there but cannot do so because of unaffordable homes.

The survey is looking for responses from people who either live in the parish, work there but commute, have family in the area or have recently moved away.

The results of the four-week survey will feed into the Neighbourhood Plan and is in addition to a previous survey carried out in 2022.

It will also form part of a thorough needs analysis to identify the right type of housing for the parish.

Jacqui Cuff, rural housing enabler for Dorset, said: “Dorset Council, the parish council and Dorset Community Action are working together to help us understand the housing need in the area.

“This is an opportunity for those who have a connection to Church Knowle parish, either through residency, family or work to have a say in future development.

“It is very important that we

The survey provides an opportunity for people who have a connection to Church Knowle to have a say in future development

reach as many people with that local connection as possible for the community housing need and views regarding a smallscale affordable housing scheme, to be properly recorded and considered.

“The feedback will help sustain a thriving community for the future, and with the help of the community we can evidence the housing we need at local level.

“The survey should take between five and 15 minutes to complete online, and we are

offering alternative ways to complete it, so we can gather as many responses as possible.”

The survey runs until April 30 and can be accessed at https:// consultation.dorsetcouncil.gov. uk/housing/3a7e9908

Anyone who needs a paper copy of the survey, help completing it or has any questions should contact the Dorset Council Housing Enabling Team at housingenabling@ dorsetcouncil.gov.uk or phone 01305 252443.

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Care home fair helps hospice

HUNDREDS of pounds were raised when Upton Bay care home in Hamworthy held a spring fair in association with Forest Holme Hospice. Members of the local community and residents enjoyed an array of gift stalls, tombola, raffle and children’s activities such as face painting

and paint the biscuit.

Mevin Sohorye, general manager at the care home, said: “It was a fantastic day with so many of our local community joining in. Our residents particularly enjoyed the sounds of the Sing and Grin choir and we are so grateful to all the volunteers from Forest Holme that made it possible.”

Mevin and Victoria Lombard met Kirsty Perks – pictured – from Forest Holme Hospice, to present her with a cheque for £526.90 raised from the fair.

A feast for the senses: Purbeck Art Weeks Festival 2025

PurbeckADVERTISING FEATURE

Art Weeks (PAW) Festival returns with an inspiring programme of exhibitions, concerts, talks, open studios, performances, and workshops, bringing together the best of local and international talent. From stunning visual arts to worldclass music performances, PAW continues to celebrate the rich cultural landscape of Purbeck.

Don’t miss the vibrant Rollington Barn exhibition, featuring works from emerging and established artists. Alongside it, the Purbeck Young Artists exhibition showcases the creativity of local schoolchildren. This year, PAW features a new exhibition, In The Spirit of PAW, at the National Trust Castle View Welcome Centre, where Purbeck’s rich heritage comes to life alongside captivating art by a collective of local artists - from photographers to sculptors.

Visitors can also explore Open Studios, where artists invite the public into their creative spaces, offering rare insights into their artistic processes. Music lovers can experience an extraordinary lineup of concerts and events. This year’s festival highlights include a special weekend featuring Stile Antico’s tribute to Renaissance composer Palestrina, transporting you to the sacred sounds of the past. Saraband & The Opera Company’s will be bringing elegant French cantatas from the salons of Rameau and don’t miss ‘Cubaroque,’ a unique fusion of early English and modern South American music, featuring acclaimed tenor Nicholas Mulroy alongside lutenists Elizabeth Kenny and Toby Carr.

You can find the full programme and event tickets at: www.purbeckartweeksfestival.co.uk

MP visits animal rescue centre

LOCAL charity, Margaret Green Animal Rescue (MGAR), has welcomed Lloyd Hatton MP to see the work it is doing, and to highlight the impact of animal welfare issues on the people and pets of Dorset.

MGAR has been looking after and finding forever homes for animals in need since 1965, making this the charity’s 60th year of operation.

The MP for South Dorset travelled to Church Knowle, near Wareham, to meet some of the animals and take a closer look at the rescue’s work, as well as discuss some of the issues the charity has faced, such as the impact of low welfare breeding on dogs and cats.

He also met the charity’s resident donkeys, Sid and Jake, and Thelma the pig, just some of the many rescue animals MGAR looks after across its three centres in Dorset and

Devon.

Mr Hatton said: “It was great to find out about Margaret Green Animal Rescue’s work in South Dorset, and to hear about the issues they are facing.

“I look forward to supporting dog welfare in Parliament.”

MGAR chief executive, Nigel Mason, added: “At Margaret Green Animal Rescue, part of our role is to tackle the root causes that lead to animals needing our help.

“It was great to welcome Lloyd Hatton MP to our site, to introduce him to some of the animals in our care and to talk to him about the wider issues impacting our work.”

MGAR re-homes and rescues many animals every year and takes in animals which become homeless due to a change in circumstances, and those which have been neglected or abandoned.

Animals receive veterinary

care and are rehabilitated and prepared to go to their new home.

If appropriate, animals are vaccinated, micro-chipped, treated against worms and fleas, and neutered before going to their new homes.

At Church Knowle, MGAR rescues and re-homes cats, farm

animals – including horses, donkeys and goats – and small animals, such as rabbits and chickens.

At Lincoln Farm, near Blandford, it rescues and re-homes dogs; and Wingletang, near Tavistock in Devon, caters for dogs and cats.

Family Law

Lloyd Hatton (right) with Margaret Green Animal Rescue chief executive

Nigel Mason at Church Knowle

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Exhibition highlights town’s part in Miracle of Dunkirk

POOLE’S part in the Dunkirk evacuation of 1940 is often overlooked, but a new community exhibition is determined to set the record straight – and, just as they were 85 years ago, local people are being called on to help.

The exhibition, Poole At Dunkirk 1940, curated by Poole Maritime Trust with the support of a range of local organisations, will be unveiled at Lighthouse Poole on Wednesday, April 30, and run until Tuesday, May 27.

The free exhibition includes a newly commissioned video as well as photographs, memorabilia and the stories of the Poole people and vessels that contributed to Operation Dynamo that saw more than 320,000 men of the British Expeditionary Force rescued from the beach at Dunkirk in the

face of the advancing enemy.

As the nation prepares to commemorate the 85th anniversary of Dunkirk in May, Poole At Dunkirk 1940 will create a permanent record and an oral history of the part played by the local community in successfully concluding an operation that was to shape modern history.

The exhibition will include details of:

n The arrival of small Dutch and Belgian ships in Poole Harbour in the run-up to Dunkirk, loaded with 3,000 refugees fleeing the Nazis.

n The significant role these

boats, or ‘skoots, went on to play at Dunkirk.

n The story of the flotilla of ‘little ships’ – fishing boats, ferries, yachts and Poole’s lifeboat the Thomas Kirk Wright – that set out for Dover and, in some cases, on to Dunkirk.

n The men of those boats afforded ‘captain’ status for the duration of their service.

n The evacuation of the 2nd Battalion Dorset Regiment from Dunkirk.

Poole Maritime Trust has gathered a good deal of material, but researchers would like to hear from those whose family members from Poole played a part in the Dunkirk evacuation.

The exhibition boards and exhibits will be kept by Dorset Archives and Poole Maritime Trust, creating a permanent

record of the part played by Poole in this defining moment in our nation’s history.

“Poole and the people of Poole played a significant role in the evacuation of France beginning on May 26, 1940, and in particular The Miracle of Dunkirk,” said Jack Hawkins, trustee of Poole Maritime Trust.

“It is worth remembering on this 85th anniversary that without this epic event there would have been no Victory in Europe 80 years ago.

“Poole Maritime Trust is commemorating this with the exhibition in recognition of the bravery and sacrifice that the people of Poole made.”

Running alongside Poole At Dunkirk 1940, The Dolphin will be hosting a sister exhibition in its ground floor GATHER space that highlights the experience of local people and life in Poole during the war.

If you have a story to tell or items to share, email Jack Hawkins or Gavin MacLachlan at research@poolemaritimetrust. org.

Defence contract secures 250-plus jobs

MORE than 250 Dorset jobs have been protected by a new deal to provide British Army equipment.

The Government has announced a new five-year, £1.6 billion maintenance and spare parts contract for tanks, armoured vehicles and more with defence firm, Babcock.

The company, which has a base in Bovington, will cover military assets including Challenger 2 tanks, 105mm artillery guns and Trojan armoured vehicles.

As well as the 250-plus jobs in Dorset, more than 400 in Telford and 1,600 in total will be supported by the deal.

The Service Provision and Transformation Contract comes after Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, committed to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP.

Maintenance services will cover preventative maintenance, emergency repairs and spare parts management, the

Government said, as well as digital transformation to improve fleet management efficiency, keeping more vehicles and equipment primed for soldiers to use.

Plans to boost the readiness of British Army combat vehicles come as the nation leads planning efforts for a Coalition of Willing nations to help secure a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.

Defence Secretary, John Healey MP, said: “Tanks, armoured vehicles and kit are the backbone of the British Army.

“We are taking action to ensure the outstanding service men and women of our Armed Forces are properly equipped and ready to respond to everchanging global threats.

“Supported by the largest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War, this substantial investment with Babcock demonstrates how defence is an engine for growth

– supporting businesses of all sizes and sustaining more than 1,600 good, well-paid jobs across Britain.”

Babcock chief executive officer, David Lockwood, said: “In a period of increased global instability, more is being expected of our armed forces.

“This contract extension ensures that Babcock continues to provide the British Army with the tools to do its job, when and wherever they are needed.

“Our know-how, application of technology and extensive experience in the land domain help ensure that the British Army is ready to fight and win wars.

“While the Land Integrated Operating Services programme places future contracts, this deal will also support approximately 6,000 UK businesses throughout the wider supply chain, as well as 200 apprentices.

“These apprenticeships will offer valuable training and development opportunities in

fields such as HGV maintenance and automotive refinishing, providing career paths in the defence sector for the next generation of skilled workers.”

MOD director land environment, Major General Lizzie Faithfull-Davies CBE, added: “It has taken a lot of hard work to collaboratively deliver this SPTC Reframe contract amendment.

“I am delighted to renew our relationship with Babcock. With this amended contract, DE&S, the Army and Babcock will now provide even better support to the in-Service platforms of our Armed forces, ensuring that the vehicles the Army will fight from are repaired, maintained and ready whenever the Army need them.”

The work comes ahead of the Defence Industrial Strategy, which the administration says will bolster UK industry and provide more opportunities for defence to be an engine for economic growth.

Morris dancers collecting for good cause

DORSET Button Morris is looking for new recruits as it steps out this summer and anyone interested in joining is asked to email buttonrapper@ gmail.com or mctyrer@gmail. com, or contact one of the dancers.

This year the group will be collecting for Dorset Search and Rescue.

Dorset Button Morris will be dancing at the following venues – check website – www.brmm. org.uk/DorsetButtonsMorris – for updates on dates and timings: April 21, all day, West Bay, various locations; May 13, 7.30pm, The Green Man, Wimborne; May 21, 7.30pm, Corfe Castle Square; May 28, 7.30pm, Lambs Green Inn,

Corfe Mullen; June 4, 7.30pm, Square and Compass, Worth Matravers; June 11, 8pm, Worlds End, Almer; June 17, 8pm, Bakers Arms, Lytchett Minster; June 25, 8pm, Cove Inn, Lulworth; June 2, 8pm, The Oak, Dewlish; July 9, 8pm, Greyhound, Winterborne Kingston; July 16, 8pm, Countryman, Winfrith; July 23,

8pm, The Ship, Wool; July 30, 8pm, The Antelope, Hazelbury Bryant; August 6, 8pm, Square and Compass, Worth Matravers; August 13, 7.30pm, Swanage seafront; August 20, 7.30pm, Durley Chine; August 27, 7.30pm, Bakers Arms, Studland; September 3, 7.30pm, Wareham Quay; September 6, All day, Swanage Folk Festival.

The Government’s £1.6bn deal with Babcock, which has a base in Bovington, covers maintenance and spare parts for tanks, armoured vehicles and more PHOTO: Google

PUPILS at St Mark’s Primary School in Swanage decorated a baby elephant sculpture at the start of the year – and now ‘Pebblefoot’ has gone on show as part of the Stampede by the Sea art trail in aid of Weldmar Hospicecare.

Youngsters covered the

symbolising the spirit of exploration.

He was also fitted with a cochlear implant to represent inclusion and raise awareness of individuals in the deaf community.

The name Pebblefoot was inspired by the rugged, stony paths of Purbeck, representing the challenging journey families navigate when they lose a loved one.

The art trail features 50 elephants across West Dorset

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

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:

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.

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

News from Wareham Town Council – March report

by Julie Bradshaw

WHERE was our notification, asked Wareham’s town clerk, after the letter from Vikki Slade MP went to all and sundry but not to Wareham Town Council. Is a ‘rolling agreement’ for pedestrian right of access across the railway line a satisfactory outcome and will Dorset Council still pay for staffing the crossing when Councillor Ireland is no longer Leader, asked Cllr Robinson.

Campaigning will continue for the best outcome, an automated crossing.

Exciting times for Wareham Town Council with its plan to take on the National Westminster building and transform it into a museum with tourist information. Also, to move the council staff’s premises into 3 East Street. The bank would get a facade more in

keeping with Wareham’s centre and specialist museum designers would be involved with the interior.

Users of day care or their carers are invited to respond to Dorset Council’s consultation on proposals intended to give day care users more choice of activities and attendance times. Clearing up after the ducks on the Quay will be easier now council groundsmen are armed with a portable high-pressure washer. As the council has not yet purchased a ride-on mower, a contractor will be needed to cut grass at Hauses Field and the Recreation Ground.

Auction of promises raises nearly £2,000

AN auction of promises has raised nearly £2,000 for the Mayor of Wimborne’s chosen charities, Planet Wimborne and The Victoria Hospital.

The event, held at St Michael’s Middle School in Colehill, was opened by Wimborne AFC general manager Jimmy Glass and led by auctioneer John Billington, who kept the bidding moving at pace.

Plant sale for children’s charity

A raffle on the night contributed an extra £200 to total funds raised.

Town mayor, Councillor Jeff Hart, said: “What a fantastic night! Not only did everyone have a great time, but we also managed to raise nearly £2,000 for two wonderful causes.

The benches outside the Red Lion belong to their owner, who has requested that the council remove them due to anti-social behaviour. The benches are well used by people waiting for buses and the council will consider the cost of new benches nearer the Cross given permission from Highways.

It is the Mayor’s prerogative to choose to hold an annual town meeting and Cllr Cotton has decided not to this year. Individuals can donate to the Mayor’s skydive raising money for Wareham Air Cadets at justgiving – search for councillor-marian-cotton-mayor.

After its popular winter lectures, the museum will re-open on April 5, including a display about the Kimmeridge Woman. A museum coordinator has been recruited. The outgoing museum manager,

Paul Willis, completed the preparatory work for an oral history project, ‘Our Identity – Past, Present and Future’. Look out for advertisements in April.

A student from Kingston Maurward and Weymouth College spent a productive week with town council staff gaining valuable experience and confidence.

Members of the public are welcome to attend the council’s next meetings on Tuesdays, April 29, and May 27 at 7.30pm in the council chamber. Further information is available on the council’s website, www. wareham-tc.gov.uk, or by phoning the town council office on 01929 553006.

“We are incredibly grateful to Darren Ayling, headteacher of St Michael’s Middle School, for his support – and congratulations to him for winning some beer in the raffle!”

GARDENERS can help the Dorchester branch of the Children’s Society by visiting a plant sale being held in the town next month.

The sale has become a popular event in the society’s fundraising calendar and this year will once again be held at 8 Grosvenor Road, Dorchester

The fundraising efforts continue with the next event – a grand quiz on Wednesday, April 30, at Wimborne Town Football Club.

(DT1 2BB).

The society would like to thank Jane and Nigel Culliford for their hospitality.

Auctioneer John Billington kept the bidding moving at pace

For more information about this event, contact Gary Mason at Wimborne Town Council at gary.mason@wimborne.gov.uk or on 01202 881655.

Donations of plants for the sale will be gratefully received, either on the day or beforehand, and can be delivered to Jane Culliford at Grosvenor Road or Annette Aldridge at 16 Manor Road.

Collection can also be arranged by phoning Annette on 01305 269245.

The sale, this year is on Thursday, May 8, from 10am3pm, generally features a wide range of plants, including annuals, perennials and vegetable plants.

PHOTO: Simon Barnes

Imagine: £15 million price tag for home linked to former Beatle

A DORSET home with links to legendary Beatle John Lennon is up for sale – for a whopping £15 million.

Imagine, named after the songwriter’s seminal hit, was built on the site of a former bungalow, called Harbours Edge, which the Beatle bought for his beloved Aunt Mimi in 1965.

The six-bed home sits on a plot in Panorama Road, Sandbanks, and is on the market with Luxury & Prestige, with an asking price of £14,950,000.

Lennon was known to visit his aunt at Sandbanks, often bringing son Julian, and later Yoko Ono, with the family taking trips to the beach using the ferry.

“He would just turn up and there would be a whirlwind when he arrived, it was usually when the pressure got a bit much,” Mimi once told an interviewer.

“He used to like to come here and turn cartwheels on the beach just by himself – there was

nobody else there.” The listing for the property said: “Imagine is an iconic home on the Sandbanks Peninsula in an area renowned as one of the most highly prized and exclusive waterside locations anywhere in the UK.

“The views are simply extraordinary and perfectly

framed by the many vantage points within the main dwelling.

“The built form extends to approximately 9,000 square feet and it includes six highly luxurious bedrooms, each with en suite facilities, open plan kitchen living and dining area, indoor swimming pool with bar area, gymnasium, sauna and private cinema.”

Gated grounds include a standalone pavilion/office and facing the harbour there is ‘a choice of areas from which to watch the world go by’, the listing adds.

“Access to the water is one of the luxuries of living here, so there is a private jetty with a lift for a Jetski or small rib,” it added.

“Finally, Imagine has good green credentials thanks to 13kw rooftop solar panels connected to a pair of 13.5kwh batteries located in the integral garage.”

in Sandbanks, and (far left) Lennon –he took the family on trips to the beach using the ferry

Summer programme packed with lots to do

EAST Dorset Heritage Trust has put the finishing touches to its new programme of events and courses and is now inviting people to do something different this spring and summer.

A programme of talks includes Medieval Women, The Battle of Britain Over Dorset, Hospital Blues, and The Women Who Went

Round the World.

Visits are planned to Dr Jenner’s House and Berkeley Castle, Black Shed Flowers, near Sherborne, Bisterne Manor and Chawton House with historic Alton.

Guided walks are on offer through the countryside of West and East Dorset, along with a Geology walk at Kimmeridge.

The programme also

includes Modern Languages, such as Italian, French and Spanish, creative writing and poetry and literature appreciation courses.

New for May is a series of three study mornings on Baroque Art with new tutor, Csaba Dolak.

Crafts include crochet and willow weaving plus pottery throwing courses – and a painting course starts after

Easter.

There is also a lino print workshop, wooden beach scene or sea glass art, plus calligraphy.

One-to-one IT sessions are on offer to help people with all those niggling digital issues.

For more information, email info@edht.org.uk, visit www.edht.org.uk or phone 01202 888992.

John Lennon’s Aunt Mimi at the bungalow

Imagine boasts amazing views.

PHOTO: Luxury & Prestige

The six-bedroom home is in Panorama Road, Sandbanks

£120,000 cost of running crossing

THE Purbeck Gazette’s recent report that Network Rail has agreed that the Wareham level crossing will not close is very welcome news.

However, I am not happy that the cost of the present arrangement to provide staff –£120,000 a year to Dorset Council – is set to continue indefinitely.

Network Rail has said that a crossing with an automatic barrier is not acceptable at Wareham, but it has not explained why Wareham is different from, for example, Poole High Street crossing.

I suspect the argument is that an automatic barrier is less safe than the present arrangement. That is true but using that reasoning would mean that every pedestrian crossing on roads throughout the country should be closed or staffed to ensure safety.

Everything we do involves some risk.

Network Rail has also listed a number of reasons why the present arrangement is unacceptable – for example, it said the present arrangement means that the sidings to the east cannot be used without

News

explaining why and why it is now acceptable.

I suspect Network Rail wants to avoid the cost of installing an automatic barrier.

Dorset Council should not be saddled with this huge ongoing bill when it is already struggling financially.

John Ross via email

Beavers: We’re not all fans

NOT everyone shares the enthusiasm of Lloyd Hatton MP when it comes to the release of beavers into the wild – Purbeck Gazette, March 31.

Beavers are large, energetic, powerful rodents that can quickly bring down mature trees.

They are highly destructive to woodland and are a tremendous pest to farming. They can breed prolifically and like most wild animals will not stay in the places where they were originally put.

In a huge country like Canada this hardly matters, but in a small country like Britain with its diversity of rare and fragile eco-systems situated relatively close together, the long-term consequences could be catastrophic.

Beavers’ dams are just as liable to cause flooding as prevent it.

Their ability to slow the water flow to our streams and rivers may well prove to have a negative impact on our native wildlife.

Most of our indigenous freshwater fish can only survive in running water, as do many of the birds and mammals that feed on them, such as dippers, kingfishers and otters.

The long-term consequences of beaver releases on wildlife and farming do not seem to have been adequately researched or fully thought through by the agencies that should be responsible.

If some of these wildlife populations should crash in the future, will the beaver enthusiasts accept any blame?

Somehow, I doubt it – after all, it’s so much more convenient to blame everything that goes wrong on ‘climate change’ instead.

John Butler Poole

Bringing the library to you

WHAT could be better than getting lost in a good book?

Do you, or someone you

know, love reading but find it difficult to get books from the library due to your caring responsibilities, health or mobility issues?

The Home Library Service is here to help – books and talking books are chosen individually for each person and delivered every four weeks from your local library by Royal Voluntary Service volunteers.

This service is free and provides you not only with a regular delivery of books but also a visit by a trusted volunteer who you get to know over time.

All the volunteers are DBS checked and carry ID badges. Interested? Please contact Royal Voluntary Service by phoning its Dorchester office on 01305 236666 during office hours or email dorsethomelibraryservice@ royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk. You can also contact your library direct.

David Tozer Service assistant Home Library Service, BCP SOMETHING TO SAY ?

Then email a letter to ed@purbeck gazette.co.uk

Tough going for juniors on out of sorts lake

by Graham Howard, DDAS junior secretary

ROUND two of the Dorchester & District Angling Society (DDAS) Juniors points championship took place at a rather out of sorts Luckfield Lake in Broadmayne.

After a couple of cancellations, eight juniors drew their pegs on the 10-peg venue. All had their fingers crossed that the recent low pressure would stimulate the fish into feeding.

Most caught steadily throughout the day and, surprisingly, no one went away

ANGLING

‘empty netted’.

Josh Roe came out as the winner with 17lb 1oz, including an impressive carp weighing 10lb 8oz.

Newcomer Alfie Ellis won a tight battle for second place with 14lb 11oz of nice bream, with Josiah Wells-Parkes third with 14lb, including a 9lb 9oz carp.

Congratulations to all the participating juniors fishing on a tough day.

For more information on DDAS Juniors visit ddasjuniors.

Josh Roe took first place with 17lb 1oz

Alfie Ellis was second with 14lb 11oz

Dorset

Your Health Matters

HealthCare’s monthly round-up

New solar panels planned to make Wareham Hospital more eco-friendly

DORSET HealthCare has been successful in its bid for funding for solar panels which will save the NHS Trust about £200,000 a year.

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has announced a package of £100 million from Great British Energy for the NHS to install solar power and battery storage solutions to help drive down energy bills, offering better value for the taxpayer.

As part of this new funding, Dorset HealthCare

has been awarded £928,000 to install solar panels at six Trust sites, with Wareham Hospital among those set to benefit.

Investing in renewable energy generation will deliver reductions in energy costs.

These new solar panel installation projects are expected to deliver savings of about £8.6m a year, and up to £260m over the panels’ lifetime across the NHS.

As part of work to meet NHS carbon net zero targets, Dorset HealthCare is

Corfe Castle in ‘top 10 sunsets’ list

LOCATIONS in Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire make the list of the top 10 places in the UK and Ireland to watch the sunset.

At the top of the list, produced by Auto Trader, was Durdle Door, on the Jurassic Coast in Dorset, while 10th spot went to Corfe Castle, also in the county.

Stonehenge, in Wiltshire, was second on the list, followed by Beachy Head in East Sussex in third.

Cheddar Gorge, in Somerset, ranked fourth in the list.

Auto Trader analysed the number of posts on social media sites TikTok and Instagram, as well as Google searches and more, to find the places most revered for their sunset vistas.

Dartmoor, in Devon, ranked top for Instagram posts, with 993,000, while Connemara, in County Galway, Ireland, ranked top for TikTok videos, with 60,200.

Beachy Head was the driest spot to watch a sunset, with just 116 rainy days each year.

“Hiking has significantly

Patrick McDermott, Dorset HealthCare’s head of Sustainability and Fleet

switching to eco-friendly, energy-efficient equipment – and helping staff go ‘green’ at the same time.

The Trust, one of Dorset’s biggest employers, is making great strides in reducing its carbon ‘footprint’ and supporting the battle against climate change.

It already buys clean,

renewable energy and has previously installed solar panels at five of its locations including Swanage Hospital.

By using a mix of solar, wind and hydro energy, this will offset about 3,000 tonnes of CO2.

Patrick McDermott, Dorset HealthCare’s head of Sustainability and Fleet, said: “We have made great progress over the last year in reducing our carbon footprint.

“We are committed to playing our part in improving the environment and are aiming to cut carbon emissions by 80% by 2030.

“Our target is to become a carbon net zero health service by 2040.

“It’s great we are making this change to clean and renewable electricity generated by solar panels.”

The installation of the panels is expected to start this summer.

increased in popularity over the last few years, with 26.4 million posts about hiking in the UK on TikTok,” an Auto Trader spokesperson said.

“Many travellers are visiting popular outdoor spots to catch a view of beautiful sunsets, TikTok searches for ‘best sunset spots’ have increased by 200% in the last 12 months.”

The top 10 sunset spots in

the UK and Ireland: 1 Durdle Door, Dorset; 2 Stonehenge, Wiltshire; 3 Beachy Head, East Sussex; 4 Cheddar Gorge, Somerset; 5 Dartmoor, Devon; 6 Malvern Hills, Worcestershire; 7 Pen y Fan, Brecon Beacon; 8 Dunnottar Castle, Aberdeenshire; 9 Giant’s Causeway, County Antrim; 10 Corfe Castle, Dorset.

Corfe Castle came 10th in the UK and Ireland and list, produced by Auto Trader, while Durdle Door, also in Dorset, came in first

THE PURBECK MAGAZINE

Cryptic crossword

Across

1 Tense sot in film (6)

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.

Killer Sudoku Pro

5 High mountain areas occupied by principally cowering animal (6)

8 Astound section of biggest union (4)

9 In bed I reviewed French article –characterizing horrid food? (8)

10 A Channel Islands detective touring island is sour (6)

11 Lament medal on a rogue (6)

12 See in the morning clay-like soil (4)

Down

2 A movement that’s instinctive after time high room (5)

3 Realm, part of sinking dominion (7)

4 Greek character put in place so awkward regarding bishops’ rule (9)

5 Outstanding type of service (3)

6 Priest is before mass showing range of colour (5)

7 Conservative and a liberal to diversify religious site (7)

14 Greek character past it on a regular basis (3)

15 Remains reported in ancient river (4)

16 Artist in last works having a star-like quality (6)

18 Protection for the leg old English footballer curtailed (6)

20 Casually come across no good type with drink before round (4,4)

22 Motorists might pay this cost in damage? (4)

23 Grassland in Maine and a hill lately obscured (6)

24 Standard new test probed by Frenchman (6)

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

11 Lower shoot (5,4)

13 Little known copper wearing varied robes

15 Lieutenant enters vertical refuge (7)

17 Speedy attack to restrain leader of pirates

19 House producing difficulty in Virginia (5)

21 Original three directions (3)

Politics

National Insurance and childcare

AS South Dorset MP Lloyd Hatton films a video outside a local primary school declaiming the benefits of breakfast clubs for all students, businesses gear up for the implementation of Labour’s national insurance (NI) increases.

Labour’s plans to raise national insurance contributions are aimed at increasing government revenue to support public services. So far, so reasonable. But the increase is expected to affect employers and employees alike, and not necessarily in a positive way.

For nurseries in South Dorset, many of which are small, independent businesses, the effects of this policy shift could be significant.

While policies like these are discussed and decided at national level, it’s essential to understand how they trickle down to local communities, particularly those with small businesses that play an important role in our daily lives.

My return to work would simply not have been possible without the care and support my kids received from their nursery. And even then, 20 years ago, after receiving my wages and paying for my childcare, I was £2 a week worse off.

One of the most immediate impacts on local nurseries will be the increase in operational costs. NI contributions are a key component of the overall payroll costs for businesses, and for nurseries –already operating on relatively tight margins due to the high cost of staff, premises and regulations – an increase in NI is likely to push financial pressures to new levels.

For nurseries that are already stretched, their worry is that these increased costs could lead to a reduction in investment in other areas that contribute to the quality of care and education –like play enrichment, professional development and

equipment upgrades, to name but a few.

With many employees in the sector already on modest wages, the additional cost burden could make it harder for employers to absorb the extra financial strain. While businesses are allowed to pass some of these costs onto consumers, the reality is that many families already face financial stress, and higher fees might push some parents to seek more affordable childcare alternatives. In rural areas like South Dorset, where transport is often an issue, this limits families’ options for childcare.

A reduction in investment in early years services would have longer-term consequences for children in our communities. Research has consistently shown that high-quality early childhood education plays a critical role in the cognitive and social development of young children. If nurseries are forced to reduce spending on these essential areas due to rising

costs, the quality of care provided to South Dorset’s youngest residents becomes unsustainable, with long-term consequences for children’s development and future educational outcomes.

Another challenge posed by the national insurance increase is the potential for a tightening labour market. In South Dorset, where recruitment in the childcare sector is already a challenge, the higher cost of employment could discourage potential workers from entering the field. If employers are unable to raise wages or offer attractive benefits due to increased overheads, the already strained childcare workforce could become even more difficult to sustain.

So yes, there may be free breakfast clubs – but at what cost to other early years settings?

LAURA BEDDOW Dorset Councillor for West Purbeck

Keeping our beaches safe for swimmers

OUR new Labour MP, Lloyd Hatton, has made no secret of his determination to keep our much loved Dorset beaches safe for swimmers, untainted by sewage spills – and to protect the water quality of our rivers. Nor has he failed to come forward in order to protect our environment from atmospheric pollution – as evidenced by his strong support to those opposing the construction of a waste incinerator on the Isle of Portland.

It was appropriate therefore, that in March Lloyd held what he called a ‘Water Forum’ at the National Sailing Academy, located near Portland Port.

Olympian sailor, Laura Baldwin, who has spoken to our members, has warned that the team could leave the facility if the incinerator is built.

Attending Lloyd’s Water Forum, I could see why. Burning plastic from a 262ft chimney stack, 24

hours a day, just a short distance away, the incinerator will pose a threat to the clean air and water that makes Portland so special.

A wide range of people attended the summit, which Lloyd co-hosted with Lizzie Creswell, community water quality officer from Surfers Against Sewage. There were representatives from Dorset Coast Forum and Litter Free Dorset, along with councillors, climate and environmental activists, Portland residents, wild swimmers and all year round swimmers – and some of the Portland Incinerator campaigners, too.

The aim of the Water Summit, Lloyd said, was to provide an opportunity for conversations about the challenge to preserve water quality, locally and nationally – to put together a plan of action. This was ‘the start of a process to bring together all our

voices’. Lloyd reminded us that Weymouth had lost its Blue Flag Kitemark. Sewage spills and discharges were a regular occurrence locally. There was an issue about winter spillages and discharges – these should be properly monitored and reported.

Lizzie reminded us that in November 2024, DEFRA and the Welsh Government had opened a consultation into a proposal to remove the current fixed bathing water season dates – May to September – given the increasing popularity of winter cold water swimming, to enable all year round testing of water quality.

The new Government was doing work to improve the state of our rivers and coasts, Lloyd said, referring to the Water (Special Measures) Bill, 2024-25. The Bill blocks bonuses for water company executives ‘who pollute our

waterways’, brings criminal charges against ‘persistent law breakers’, impose automatic and ‘severe’ fines on ‘persistent law breakers’ and enables independent monitoring of every sewer overflow outlet.

Lloyd, nonetheless, wanted water companies ‘held to account’ – spillages were a ‘scandal going on since privatisation’. The Environment Agency should be fully and properly resourced. We needed, locally, a focus on the Jurassic Coast, making use of a ‘water restoration fund’ – fines supporting work to improve the quality of water.

“This is the start of a key piece of work for me”, Lloyd told us – “I’ll keep doing this work, working with you – but this must be led by all of you”.

CHRIS BRADEY Vice-chair of Swanage and Rural Purbeck Labour Party

Labour’s spanner in ‘nature’ works

LATE in March I was invited to Cordite Way, a new right of way which while not yet fully breaching the gap between Holton Heath and Hamworthy, it is hoped will do so soon. It was a glorious Saturday morning, and those involved in the 20-plus year project were there in force for the opening speech by Vikki Slade MP.

At such times, living in the Dorset we know and love, it’s difficult to square the here and now with the knowledge that the UK is one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world, with less tree cover than any of our Western European neighbours, and a sustained loss of natural biodiversity in this area alone – species locally have been depleted by 19% since 1970, with a loss of 400 species to extinction.

Climate change tends to grab the headlines. Dorset Council has acknowledged that greenhouse gas emissions are

the major factor in global warming, and so we’ve just brought forward our net zero targets to 2035 – for stuff we directly control – and 2045 – for things that we don’t.

However, some of the climate targets are also nature ones – the largest proportion of the emissions in the 2045 target, at around 33%, is agriculture and land use in the Dorset Council area.

One of the first actions of the new Liberal Democrat-led Dorset Council was to declare a nature emergency, and it is leading work to develop a Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) for Dorset that is set to go out for consultation shortly.

management to support biodiversity.

There is also a marine project to protect the seagrass beds at Studland by installing eco-moorings, a major heathland restoration project at Avon Heath Country Park, the successful award of major nutrient mitigation funding for Poole Harbour and the full allocation by Dorset National Landscapes of £2.4 million Farming in Protected Landscapes funding. It is also prioritising growth through the symbiosis of green-tech and nature-based solutions, driving economic recovery and creating jobs.

sustainable farming initiative (SFI), which pays farmers for making space for nature on their land and, importantly, encourages sustainable farming practice.

This is promoted as the way to farm in the Dorset LNRS and is already supported by some farmers in Dorset as a way to increasing agricultural productivity through healthier soil, planting trees and hedges, digging ponds, putting fewer nitrates in the water by reducing fertilisers, and better food production.

70% of land in England is farmed and so if nature is to recover, farmers need to be a big part of the solution.

Council activity for nature includes the Community Tree Fund, the Love Your Verge programme and a cut and collect approach to greenspace

Dorset Council is in the top 10 councils leading on nature recovery as ranked by the Woodland Trust.

A very large spanner has been thrown into the works by Labour putting on hold the

I’ve written to the Environment Secretary, Steve Reed, to request that the scheme is re-opened and given the priority and funding it deserves.

NICK IRELAND Liberal Democrat Leader of Dorset Council

Nick Ireland

Telling It Like It Is

Packaging can present a bit of a challenge!

AREGULAR cry in our house is “How do old people manage?”. Perhaps I should start by explaining that Tina and I are both around 80 years old and that we still have most of our faculties! So, what is it that constantly defeats us?

Milk comes in plastic bottles with a screw cap that needs a wrench for its initial removal. And then below this is a cap that needs good eyesight and strong fingers to remove. By which time, the skimpy plastic handle has almost given in!

Our ‘medications’ all come in the standard press-out foil –some of the pills break while being ‘pressed out’. What a shame they took away the option of bottles or easily opened plastic pots! And what a waste of silver foil!

So many supermarket snacks such as sandwiches are sold in triangular cardboard boxes –just occasionally I can open one without destroying the sandwich within! Packets of crisps also resist being opened neatly and tend to deposit their contents all over the kitchen floor. Even worse are the squeezy singleportion sauce and mayonnaise packets that arrive with lunch in the pub. Once we have both given up, we usually ask the waitress if she has a pair of

by David Hollister

scissors. For which we often receive scathing looks under raised eyebrows.

So, I come in from the garden, dripping blood from one hand. This is a regular occurrence. I need to stop the bleeding, so I grab a piece of kitchen roll and then seek a sticking plaster. Over the years we have developed a proper ‘emergency pack’. Take the sticking plasters out of their box. Throw box away. Place in an easily opened Tupperware container and put in the same place every time, where it can be found by any member of the family in a hurry.

Plasters have already been removed from their inner packaging – it’s not easy to get a plaster out of the sort of packet designed to prevent people with one bleeding hand from accessing them easily. Or – if you have ‘dressing strip’ – cut into useful lengths before you put them in your Tupperware box. Soak up the remaining blood with the kitchen roll, apply a tiny squirt of Savlon or your preferred antiseptic cream and cover the damaged finger with the sticking plaster. So much easier to adopt this routine than to scrabble about looking for the plasters in the useless First Aid box – do people ever

use all those optional extras like bandages and eye-patches? So much easier than trying to find the kitchen scissors which someone else has used and left somewhere else. And if you’re lucky, no-one will have moved the needle specifically left in the box for thorn removal.

It’s all about making regular occurrences familiar to deal with. Attach your own tiny scissors or penknife to your car keys and take them into the restaurant ready to do battle with the mayonnaise or tomato ketchup. Keep old pill bottles and dispense the paracetamol into them individually at leisure, so you know just where they are – same drawer as the plasters – when you need them.

WHAT is it about this sanitised and safety-crazed nation which won’t allow the purchase of standard painkillers in usable bottles? Which seems to totally ignore the fact that vapes are just as harmful as cigarettes and continue to allow them to be on open display and sold to children, while covering up the Rothmans and Embassy behind a screen. As if that was going to stop people buying them! A nation which still goes out of its way to legislate against ‘assisted dying’ and to force terminally ill people to suffer when, had that person been an animal, it could have been easily and painlessly despatched across the rainbow bridge.

A nation where knives of all shapes and sizes can be bought from most ‘country stores’ without question or without a licence. Or, indeed, from Amazon and sent to you post-free. A nation which still naively believes that the requirement to hold a gun licence is going to stop lunatics from taking their weapons into public places and murdering small children. How many gun or knife attacks were carried out by killers with licensed weapons?

The answer – and many of you will be throwing up your hands in horror – is a

concentrated effort by a caring government to totally remove all firearms and all ammunition from sale. To totally ban the sale and possession of any knives and bladed weapons. Starshaped throwing knives have no legitimate social use. And nor do AK47s or any automatic weapons. To reinstate ‘stop and search’ in the interests of saving lives no matter how many ethnic groups claim they are being victimised. If you have nothing to hide, then stop complaining. The life that is saved may just be your own. Or your grandchild’s.

More than 120 firefighters tackled two heath fires that started within hours of each other near Poole. Then another on Canford Heath. And another at Moors Valley. A tragedy for the plants, trees and wildlife. I’m sorry, but this appears to be no accident and nothing to do with ‘global warming’. Maybe a barbecue, maybe the sun’s rays concentrating through a discarded bottle, maybe a cigarette end – or maybe a deliberate and destructive action by a child with nothing better to do. So once again I beg all small shops and garages, please take barbecues off sale.

WE know BCP Council sees car parking charges as a part of its anti-car strategy and to increase its revenue stream. Charges have increased by 9.1% over the last two years –inflation-busting certainly. And recent Dorset Council charges seem to suggest Dorset is going the same way as BCP.

Meanwhile, town centres all over Dorset are failing during through lack of footfall. This is what happens when councillors’ ideology takes over from common sense. Someone surely has to call a halt to increasing parking charges? And to point out that it’s cheaper to park in Wareham than in the countyoperated street-parking areas of Swanage. Thank goodness Swanage Council still owns and operates the town-centre car parks.

Fighting the flu – with a little help from the herb cabinet

by Fiona Chapman

WHILE I was away, my poor daughter had full blown flu. She couldn’t move, slept for days and didn’t eat for a week. It is so difficult being a Mum and far away from your child when they are sick –however old they are. I got home to find a very white, thin girl with her raw nose permanently in a tissue, feeling like her head was in a vice.

I think when you have been ill, you wonder if you will feel well, have any energy or be happy ever again, so addressing the virus, the immune system and general mood is very important. Off I went to my trusty herbal cabinet to come up with a suitable formula for her.

Obviously, I needed

Echinacea in there as this stimulates the white blood cells to fight off any infection.

I also wanted Astragalus membranaceus, which is vital for balancing the immune system and a general tonic for all the organs.

Baptisia tinctoria, or wild indigo, majored in my mix as it is specifically for flu. It is anti-microbial and helps to modulate the immune system as well as stimulating the lymphatic system – so important in fighting infections. It is also analgesic and sedative and so to calms the mind, very necessary when you feel desperate about work or getting things done.

Schisandra chinensis was another herb – it is a powerful

Blister packs can now be recycled

HARD-TO-RECYCLE blister packs can now be dropped off at Boots locations across Dorset.

This follows the success of a pilot scheme run by the company, with the initiative now rolled out to more than 800 stores nationwide.

All blister packs, whether previously used to hold medications or vitamins, and no matter which brand, can now be recycled through the scheme.

Blister packs cannot be placed in the kerbside recycling bin as they are made of a combination of plastic and foil that cannot be separated by Dorset Waste Services.

The packs will be collected by Boots before being handed to

MYGroup, which will separate the foil and plastic using a specialised machine, and convert all the waste into something new.

The now-separated metal foil is recycled conventionally –aluminium is infinitely recyclable – while the plastic is processed into a useable form again, such as window frames or piping, or made into a material called MYBoard.

Nothing goes to landfill, and nothing is incinerated, Boots says.

MYBoard is used to make items including tables, children’s playgrounds, chairs, garden planters, shop fittings and lots more.

Health & Wellbeing

adaptogen and liver tonic. This means it strengthens the body and allows it to adapt to its environment as well as protecting the liver while helping it to get rid of toxins – all very important when you are ill.

Angelica sinensis is a blood tonic, protects the heart and liver and the uterus – again, just to strengthen her.

I then added the king of bitters – much to her disgust –Andrographis paniculata – this is a strong anti-viral herb and the bitters in it stimulate the liver and gall bladder to produce bile and so help with digestion and getting rid of toxins.

The whole body needs to be treated when ill – lots of good water to flush the toxins out and healthy, strengthening foods

Last but certainly not least was my trusty old Hypericum perforatum, which lifts the mood, is a great anti-depressant and nervine herb. It also helps to detox the liver.

The whole body needs to be treated when ill – lots of good water to flush the toxins out and healthy, strengthening foods. My poor daughter forced the very bitter herbs down, but within 12 hours was beginning to feel better. She is now knocking them back without me reminding her!

n Fiona Chapman is a naturopathic herbalist; email Pellyfiona@gmail.com.

When achievement isn’t enough: The mental health cost of always being ‘fine’

by Kay Parkinson

“SHE’S so capable.” “He always seems to cope with everything.” “You’re the strong one in the family.”

We hear these things as compliments – and often, they are. But there’s a shadow side to being the one who ‘always manages’.

It’s easy to become fluent in the language of high performance and emotional containment. Smile, keep going, push through. Internally though, the experience can feel hollow, disconnected or quietly exhausted.

In therapy, I often see this pattern in people who are not in immediate crisis. They have careers, families and routines. They’re ticking the boxes. But they’ve stopped feeling like they belong in their own lives. They’ve been praised for functioning well for so long that asking for help feels like failure. Their needs have been edited out of the picture.

This is the landscape of high-functioning anxiety,

masked depression, or what some call ‘smiling burnout’.

And it’s more common than we think. It’s not weakness to admit

that ‘fine’ isn’t the full story. It’s courage. It’s a quiet act of self-honour to ask: “What do I need, if I stop performing and start feeling?”

secretly we crave rest, validation and deeper connection. We all need places where it’s safe to not be the strong one. To be held rather than hold it all together. To let go of the curated version of life and attend to what’s real.

Sometimes this begins with small acts of honesty – with ourselves or someone we trust. It might sound like: “Actually, I’m struggling,” or “I’m not sure I can keep going like this.” These moments are powerful because they break the spell of isolation. They make space for real connection. And in that space, something remarkable happens – self-compassion becomes possible.

We stop treating ourselves as machines and start relating to ourselves as humans. Not projects to improve, but people to care for. This is where emotional wellbeing begins –not in striving, but in softening. In allowing ourselves to be seen as we are – messy, growing, still enough.

If any of this resonates, it doesn’t mean something is wrong with you. It may mean something important inside you is ready to be honoured – your need for rest, your longing for connection or your quiet hope that life could feel different.

That signal isn’t weakness. It’s wisdom. And it’s worth listening to.

Many of us learned, early on, that worth comes from achievement. That being calm and useful makes us lovable. That expressing sadness or fear might burden others. And so, we become emotionally self-sufficient. We pride ourselves on resilience, but

n Kay Parkinson is a therapist specialising in trauma, emotional neglect and the impact of shame on identity and self-worth. Kay’s work focuses on transforming shame through the lens of authentic honour. Visit: www.placetotalktherapies. co.uk.

Meditations in nature: Up on the hills where the red kites soar

by Susannah Curtin

AT last, winter is behind us and British Summer Time has begun. The sky is a misty blue punctuated by palls of hazy cloud. Although the wind still holds its chill, I can feel the warmth of the sun on my back as I hike up towards the ridge at Whitecliff Down, high above the villages of the Deverills.

I am too early for the bluebells on Bidcombe Hill, but there are celandines galore and the odd patch of wild daffodils. Nuthatch have paired up and are issuing their punchy, staccato calls, and the fine flowers of the blackthorn light up the hedgerows with their frothy white blossom. As I leave the thickets behind me, I emerge on top of the rolling Wiltshire downs. Towards the south, wide views of the Blackmore Vale are punctuated by its villages and the distinctive conical shape of Duncliffe Woods rising from the surrounding lowlands.

Balanced on a mound of earth, I sit with my flask of tea and just enjoy the light and space around me. It is not long, however, before the plaintive mewing above my head catches my attention. Then I notice how the sky is full of raptors. I count at least 20 red kites with their unmistakable long, slender wings, deeply forked tails and languid mastery of the breeze. These social birds are stacked above me like aeroplanes waiting to land, circling on the rising thermals. There are also six common buzzards, a pair of kestrels and the aerobatic exploits of two pairs of ravens. What a wonderful sight this is

– to see so many birds of prey from this one location.

Red kites hold a particular place in my heart for they have literally been brought back from the brink of extinction. Once so rare, they are one of the UK’s most successful conservation stories. In 1903, a species that was once considered to be as common as a carrion crow, was estimated at just five breeding pairs in their last remaining stronghold of mid-Wales. Persecution, egg-collecting and their susceptibility to poisoning contributed to their decline. Although they are cherished now, and are Wales’s national bird, they were once utterly detested. Due to their liking for refuse and carrion, kites are often seen over the world’s poorest cities. While working in Kathmandu, I can remember being fascinated by the number of black kites that relentlessly circled over the city, thriving on the poor sanitation. It was the same in the 1600s in medieval London, giving rise to their inclusion in Shakespeare’s play as the ‘detested kite’ in King Lear, and being named as ‘shitehawks’. In fact, they were so good at rubbish management at the time that it became a crime to kill them.

In the 1980s, the red kite was only one of three native UK species to be considered globally threatened, thus making it a conservation priority, and in 1989 the first red kites were reintroduced into Buckinghamshire and Scotland. Over time, these graceful, tenacious birds have gradually spread north, east, south and west into Somerset and Dorset.

The red kite has been a conservation success story. In 1903 the species was down to just five pairs in mid-Wales, now it is estimated to number 6,000 pairs across the UK

Today, they are a protected species estimated to number 6,000 pairs in the UK. Resident all year and feeding mostly on carrion, they can be seen over grasslands, heathlands, moorlands, woodlands, roads, towns, gardens and farmlands. They produce young in their second year when they build extremely untidy nests. These are often built on top of an old crow’s nest and are lined with all sorts of rubbish such as cloth, paper, plastic and bits of sheep’s wool.

I am thrilled that their numbers in Dorset have expanded, and that I can now see them regularly flying above my house. Their flight is so captivating that I always stop to admire them. With a wingspan of nearly two metres, they can adjust the angle of their tail, using it like a rudder, while barely moving their wings. Sitting on this little mound in the watery sunshine, I become transfixed as I watch aerial

behaviour I have never seen before. Red kites are monogamous and usually mate for life, and at this time of the year they exhibit courtship behaviour to re-establish bonds. Right in front of me, in the valley below the ridge, I watch as these masters of the air glide slowly towards each other, fly in a circle together and then simultaneously twist and tumble towards the ground with their wings folded back before suddenly breaking apart. Then they regain height before doing it all again. They are sometimes so close to me I can hear their wingbeats.

I will always remember this day high up on the hills where the red kites soar. It has filled me with such joy and admiration for these birds –creatures that we once nearly destroyed but which have at last found the veneration they deserve.

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

Easter: The best times to travel

MILLIONS of people will be preparing to hit the roads over the long Easter holidays, inevitably leading to hold-ups on routes across the country.

However, planning your departure time could make all the difference between a trouble-free journey and hours in gridlock.

To help drivers navigate the holiday rush, Plates Express analysed traffic data from Easter 2024 and identified the peak congestion periods and the best windows to travel over the long weekend in 2025.

It has come up with the

worst and best times to travel:

n Thursday, April 17 – Early getaway chaos. Busiest time: 2pm to 7pm. Best time to travel: Before 1pm or after 8pm.

n Good Friday, April 18 –Peak holiday rush. Busiest time: 11am to 3pm. Best time to travel: Before 9.30am or after 5.30pm.

n Saturday, April 19 – Day trip crowds. Busiest time: 10am to noon. Best time to travel: Before 9am or after 2pm.

n Sunday, April 20 – Moderate flow: Busiest time: 11am to 1pm. Best time to travel: Early morning or after 3pm.

Older drivers turn out in force for workshops

MORE than 100 older drivers have taken part in a series of workshops in Dorchester to get advice about road safety.

The Older Drivers Forum provided an opportunity for drivers to be reminded about how they can keep themselves and other road users safe.

“Our road safe colleagues joined up with partner organisations to hold workshops for older drivers to highlight potential issues, listen to concerns and give safety advice,” a Dorset Police

spokesperson said.

“The Older Drivers Forum aims to keep motorists on the road safely for longer by giving practical, informative help and support to continue driving or pointing older drivers in the right direction for an appraisal or assessment for their driving needs.

“We are committed to working with every sector of the community to prevent any road traffic collisions in Dorset that could have potentially serious or fatal consequences.”

Ryan on 07474 737577

n Monday, April 21 –Homebound surge: Busiest time: 10am to noon. Best time to travel: Before 9am or after 1pm.

To ensure a stress-free Easter journey it is advised to check live traffic apps before departure and to check your vehicle’s tyres and fluids.

It is also a good idea to plan rest stops to avoid fatigue and pack essentials such as water,

snacks and phone chargers.

“We analysed Easter 2024’s travel data to help motorists avoid unnecessary delays this year,” said a spokesperson from Plates Express.

“The mid-morning to early afternoon window is consistently the busiest across all five days.

“Travelling earlier or later in the day can significantly reduce journey times and frustration.”

Dorset Police organised the workshops, and they were joined by representatives from Dorset Road Safe, Dorset Council, Dorset & Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service, the Institute of Advanced Motoring and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council.

Information, advice, videos and courses about road safety are available online at www.

olderdriversforum.com or www. dorsetroadsafe.com

Anyone with concerns about an older person and their driving is asked to speak to the driver concerned or, if necessary, report the matter to the police if there is a risk to safety.

More information on this can be found at www. dorsetroadsafe.org.uk.

Embarking on a journey in the middle of the day over Easter could mean drivers are stuck in heavy traffic

The workshops provided an opportunity for older people to raise concerns with police PHOTO: Dorset Police

‘Brooklands Gorge’ could sell for £5,000

Celebrity inspiration

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

SOME of the most stylish women in history knew the power of antique jewellery. Their timeless fashion choices continue to inspire collectors and fashion lovers today.

From delicate pearls to dazzling diamonds, these icons embraced vintage glamour in a way that is still emulated today.

Audrey Hepburn: Understated elegance

AUDREY Hepburn was the epitome of classic style.

She often paired her chic, minimalist outfits with antique jewellery, favouring delicate pearls, Art Deco bracelets and vintage brooches.

One of her most memorable looks from Breakfast at Tiffany’s features a stunning multi-strand pearl necklace, which remains a symbol of refined elegance.

Elizabeth Taylor: Bold and glamorous

IN contrast, Elizabeth Taylor was known for her love of extravagant jewellery.

She famously owned one of the world’s most stunning antique pieces — the La

Peregrina Pearl, a 16th century pearl that once belonged to Spanish royalty.

Taylor adored historic gems, often wearing large vintage diamond necklaces, Renaissance-inspired tiaras and Edwardian rings.

And, of course, Richard Burton bought the 69.42-carat pear-shaped diamond originally cut by Harry Winston for $1.1 million for her at an auction.

She originally wore it as a ring but later had it set into a necklace because the diamond was too large for her hand!

Marilyn Monroe: Classic & timeless

THOUGH not hers, Marilyn Monroe famously wore the 24-carat yellow Moon of Baroda Diamond necklace, dating back over 500 years, for a promotional shoot.

The diamond had belonged to Indian royalty and was believed to bring both fortune and misfortune to its owner.

She often wore bold, geometric diamond earrings and bracelets reminiscent of the Art Deco period.

These icons proved that antique jewellery is more than a relic of the past – it’s a statement of style and sophistication.

DUKE’S auction house, based in Dorchester, will hold two major auctions this spring.

The Spring Auction on Wednesday, April 16, will feature a variety of items, including a portrait of Sir Frederic Gustavus Fowke Bart estimated at £2,000£4,000.

The Art & Design post1880 auction follows on Thursday, April 17, focusing on contemporary art with notable pieces including Conrad Leach’s enormous work Brooklands Gorge, estimated at £3,000-£5,000.

Both auctions offer the opportunity to bid in person, by phone or online via platforms like The Saleroom and Easylive Auction.

Prospective buyers can view the lots at Duke’s

premises in Dorchester, with viewing dates commencing on Monday, April 14, until the day of the auction.

Full details on consignment, viewing and bidding can be found on Duke’s official website.

Brooklands George, by Conrad Leach (b. 1965), lot 643 in the Art & Design post-1880

Film star Audrey Hepburn was the epitome of understated elegance

PHOTO: Wikimedia Commons

Home & Garden

Secrets of sowing seed outdoors

by Sally Gregson

AT last, the time has come for the ‘singing of birds’ and ‘flowers to appear on the earth’ as King Solomon once noted. There is a definite warmth to the daytime temperatures. Not only are the birds singing and our woolly jumpers shed, but the soil has warmed to above 10˚ c. It is a critical temperature below which seed will just rot off and not germinate.

In the vegetable garden, if the soil is not already weed-free and raked, it is time to prepare the beds for sowing. Remove every visible weed, and if the ground suffers from docks, dandelions or worse, insert a

fork deep down and hoick them out. It is more easily done now than when giant dandelions are surrounded by struggling seedling lettuces.

Rake over the soil to a ‘fine tilth’, that is, the texture of breadcrumbs, if possible. And then mark out rows with the corner of an inverted rake. The old fashioned method is still the best. Broadcasting seeds all over the ground sounds like a good idea to use the available space, but you will need to be able to identify weed seedlings from their cotyledons – seed leaves – and tweak them out. It’s so much easier to spot a uniform row of seedling

cabbages among all the weedy chaos.

Sow the vegetable seeds thinly in the indented rows then cover them with earth, turn the rake over and tamp down the soil with the back of the tines, label the row and give it all a good watering. Most vegetable seedlings will be up within a fortnight. Unless, that is, we get a few very cold, frosty nights. Often the newly germinated seeds are burned off by a late frost. If this happens, there’s still plenty of time to sow another row alongside.

Once you are confident there is a row of vegetable seedlings coming up, you can take care of them – weeding and watering. After a few weeks, the growing plants will probably need thinning down to the required distance apart. This is usually noted on the seed packet. Half-hardy vegetables such as courgettes, French beans and cucumbers should be started off under protection by the end of March. And by summer you will be picking fresh cabbages, lettuces and succulent young vegetables.

Hardy and hairy: The Pasque Flower

by Sally Gregson

AS the garden re-awakens after a long winter, the Pulsatilla or Pasque Flower opens its large, hairy flowers to greet the gentle light of spring. It has always been a symbol of renewal and new beginnings. Its name comes from the French for Easter, ‘pâques’, when the plant usually flowers in western Europe. So, it comes as a symbol of hope and renewal after winter.

The Pulsatilla is a British native, indigenous to the drier side of the country – East Anglia. It grows most happily on the well-drained slopes of chalk downland with its head in the sun. Its range spreads east into Sweden and Finland, and as far as Ukraine.

It is a remarkably pretty native. Generations of cottage

gardeners must have carefully removed plants and put them in their gardens, happily to no detriment of the native population. Pulsatillas produce mauve, ‘red’ or white bells over hairy crowns of leaves that are followed by large tassels of hirsute seed, just right for clinging to the coat of any passing badger or rabbit.

Over the years, nurserymen and growers have selected out some lovely double-flowered forms whose essential hairiness seems emphasised by the extra petals. Of course, as a native plant, the Pulsatilla is very hardy. These diminutive little plants survive quite low temperatures down to -20˚ degrees centigrade. They are much tougher than they appear.

The copiously produced seeds are easy to germinate.

Sow them straight away in summer, pressing them down onto a shallow pan of compost, the seeds anchored by a layer of sharp grit. Label and water the pan well and place it somewhere warm but shaded –pans of compost dry out very

easily. The seed should germinate in a few weeks and the seedlings can be pricked out into larger trays, individual plugs or small pots. Keep them in a cold frame, ideally until the following spring, when they can be planted out.

Pulsatilla patens brings a splash of purple to the garden

Spring is here and the soil has warmed allowing seed to germinate

The only way is up!

by Mike Burks GARDENS

in general are getting smaller. The density demanded by planners means there are more houses per square metre, which to me means less garden.

Planting climbers doesn’t have to be plants that you may be stuck with for years – if you want variety, then choose from the wonderful range of annual climbers.

The first is well known and that is the good old sweet pea.

Individual colours are available but longer flowering is often achieved with mixed colours, such as the Spencer varieties.

These are long stemmed and good for cutting with great perfume.

They will do best in the ground but also can be effectively grown in a deep pot with a quality potting compost.

Plenty of water is the key and regular picking will keep the flowers coming.

A relative, of course, is the runner bean, which was originally introduced as an ornamental flower.

The advantage is that an edible crop is produced as well as wonderful flowers.

Keeping these moist is crucial, for pollination purposes especially, if they are to be grown in a pot.

Purpose-made obelisks, whether metal or willow, are useful climbing frames, but a wigwam of 8ft canes will do equally as well and may give a better height for optimum results.

The cup and saucer vine Cobaea scandens has large white or purple flowers which, if laid on their side, look like a cup and saucer.

These will attain a height of 8ft-plus in a short time.

More delicate is the Asarina with flowers that are reminiscent of antirrhinums, hence the common name of climbing snapdragon.

These climb with their growing tip winding around the climbing frame.

Others in the annual climbing range include Thunbergia, commonly known as black eyed susan.

The standard variety is yellow with a black centre to the flower and there is also a variety called African sunset with a dusty

apricot hue.

Both are very happy in a good soil or in pots with plenty of depth.

Not really climbers but good fun plants are the climbing fuchsias and climbing geranium.

Really, they have a habit that makes them grow much taller than their normal relatives but they are a bit of fun.

So, lots of colour on quickgrowing plants that will fill space in a very short time which every garden will have space for. n Mike Burks is managing director of The Gardens Group

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Hatton tells businesses

‘I’ve got your back’

BUSINESSES at a joint chamber of commerce of event were told their interests and concerns can be taken to the top at Westminster.

The pledge came when more than 80 delegates attended the Building Your Future networking breakfast held by Weymouth and Portland Chamber of Commerce (WPCC) with Dorset Chamber.

South Dorset MP, Lloyd Hatton, vowed to act as an advocate for the area at Parliament and be approachable for businesses to raise concerns, questions and frustrations.

Dorset Chamber chief executive, Ian Girling, highlighted how the organisation – the county’s ‘voice of business’ – had a direct route into lobbying at Westminster as an accredited member of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).

WPPC is an associate member of Dorset Chamber, which has nearly 700 members representing 37,000 employees.

Dominique Manasseri, WPCC president, said: “It was an inspirational event which set the tone for further activity to shape long-term growth in

Weymouth and Portland.

“Our new MP is on the same page as us and it is hugely encouraging to see the positive way he has engaged with the business community.

“We look forward to continuing to work closely with him and Dorset Chamber.”

Dorset Chamber members were among those attending the event at the Oliveto restaurant on Weymouth seafront, which was sponsored by Igloo Mortgages, Hull Gregson & Hull and Rosenkelly Architectural Design.

Ian Girling said: “Dorset Chamber is keen to support businesses across the county.

“Our associate programme with WPCC and other town chambers means that their voice can be heard by government through our accreditation and close working relationship with the BCC.

“There may be challenging times ahead, but chambers of commerce are here to provide the support businesses need and pressure for their interests, their communities and local economies.”

Dorset Chamber launched a new Work Explore initiative at the event. It will work with 20 schools, including three in Weymouth and Portland, to introduce children aged 11 to 14

to the world of work with information and experiences.

Lloyd Hatton MP said there was huge untapped potential and opportunities for growth in the area.

He identified potential jobs in defence and its supply chain, clean energy initiatives –including wind, tidal, carbon capture and hydrogen storage – tourism and hospitality, town centre revitalisation and house building as some of the key areas to focus upon.

He said: “I want to be an advocate for the business community here in Weymouth and Portland at Westminster.

“It is really important that when you have concerns, questions or frustrations that you have someone you can approach.

“I want to make sure that my door is open for business community and that I am listening. I am very happy to have conversations to see what is working and see what the Government could do better.”

The business breakfast was the first following WPCC’s annual meeting when its new president and board were elected.

The event also included presentations by Matt Gregg from Hull Gregson & Hull, Damien Bastin from Igloo Mortgages and Ben Kirby from Rosenkelly Architectural Design.

Hairdresser Paul keeping it

AS a Wimborne schoolboy

Paul Swaffield did work experience in a hair salon in the town.

That led to a Saturday job washing hair and cleaning the salon.

At 16 he took an apprenticeship in hairdressing and barbering at Bournemouth College.

At 18, he knew he wanted to run his own business and by the age of 23 he was doing just that.

Now, at 41, he has three

Swaffields hair salons in Dorset – Lilliput, Upton and Wimborne – and employs a team of more than 30 barbers and hairdressers.

His Wimborne-based business in Mill Lane, which styles men’s and women’s hair, is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year.

It is a family affair with wife and business partner, Nikki, instrumental in setting up the Wimborne salon as well as working front of house in the Upton salon.

His 75-year-old mum, Carol, is front of house in Wimborne and his dad, Bob, a handyman and plumber, is on call across the salons.

Paul’s teenage daughter, Poppy, is a hairdresser in Upton and Lilliput.

Paul said: “My mum and dad worked from the age of 13 and it inspired me to do the same.

“My dad started to train as a hairdresser but gave it up as there weren’t many men in this profession at that time and he got ridiculed.

“He regrets it to this day. I’m so thankful I’ve had the opportunity to follow my chosen career and bring my family along with me as part of my team.”

The driven entrepreneur is still very ‘scissors-on’ in all his businesses, splitting time between them all to cut hair for loyal clients.

Paul also gives a lot of his time to working with boys interested in becoming barbers.

He guest lectures at hair training academies and

In the picture (from left) Matt Gregg, director of event sponsor Hull Gregson & Hull; Damian Bastin, director of event sponsor Igloo; Dorset Chamber chief executive, Ian Girling; South Dorset MP, Lloyd Hatton; Ben Kirby, of event sponsor Rosenkelly Architectural Design; and Weymouth and Portland Chamber of Commerce president, Dominique Manasseri

Charities face ‘trio of challenges’

CHARITIES warned of a ‘trilogy of challenges’ when they attended a legal summit with Dorset law firm Ellis Jones Solicitors.

Rising overheads, increased employer National Insurance Contributions and HR changes under the Government’s Employment Rights Bills were chief among their concerns.

But they also voiced fears about the growing threat of cybercrime and the weaponisation of artificial intelligence.

The legal update by Ellis Jones’s experts also covered such matters as trustees’ duties, post-Covid difficulties with volunteer recruitment and retention, and consideration of charity insurance and policies.

Ellis Jones, with its Dorchester office in Somerleigh Road in the town centre, welcomed representatives from charities including The Tank Museum, Fly Navy Heritage Trust, Macmillan Caring Locally, Bournemouth and District Samaritans and Lewis Manning Hospice Care.

Managing partner, Nigel Smith, opened the event, followed by a presentation on trustees’ duties by partner Victoria Riddleston and associate chartered legal executive Rosemary Drew.

Partner and head of employment/HR services Kate Brooks discussed how impending legislation will change the policies charities are required to have in place. A question and answer session was also held.

Nigel said: “It was very clear that charities face a tough environment with the impact of the cost-of-living crisis and tightening of the public purse.

“They also face a trilogy of challenges with imminent National Insurance increases for those with employees, changes proposed in the Employment Rights Bills and rises in such overheads as electricity and other utilities.

“Cyber security was also a major issue with some delegates concerned about the threat of clone websites and information theft.

business and start a training school for young hairdressers,” he said.

“Barbering and hairdressing is such a great career that can work around having a family but often boys still don’t see it as an option for them.”

He added: “Opening a business in Wimborne was one of the best moves I’ve made.

“Despite this, there was a great deal of positivity in the room from charities who continue to perform heroically to make the world a better place and help those most in need.

“At Ellis Jones we are proud to play our part to support to such organisations when they need help, guidance or advice to ensure they continue to make a difference to society.”

In her presentation, Kate discussed the impact of proposed Employment Rights legislation on recruitment, working practices and HR policies. Kate reminded delegates that new legislation changes are likely, and putting in place policies and reviewing

processes ahead of time is good preparation for future changes.

She also highlighted increases to the National Minimum Wage, Statutory Sick Pay and family related pay from April.

Victoria and Rosemary addressed concerns about trustees being held personally responsible for charities’ compliance. They advised that taking out appropriate insurance could offer reassurance to potential trustees reluctant to commit to the role.

They also discussed cyber security as a crucial area for risk management with the threat of clone websites and information theft. currently has a 16-year-old lad working for him.

“I’d

Email:

Call

info@whizzbits.co.uk

www.whizzbits.co.uk

“We love being part of the Wimborne community and working in a town that is thriving. Here’s to the next 10 years!”

Men’s first team land title

by Jackie Barker

ALL the teams at Swanage & Wareham Hockey Club had good seasons, the men’s first team leading the way by winning South Central Division 3.

After a fiercely competitive season, they finished two points ahead of Andover.

The team put in dominant performances throughout, losing only two of their 16 matches. Their final home victory against Fareham secured promotion to Division 2.

The ladies first team had a solid season following their promotion to South Central Division 2 South, finishing comfortably mid-table, which

New and old faces at training

SWANAGE Cricket Club are gearing up for the new season with pre-season matches getting under way this weekend (April 19).

HOCKEY

should provide a good foundation for next season.

They capped their campaign with an exciting 2-1 home win against Romsey.

The ladies second team finished fourth in South Central Forest Division 2, the highest position the team have ever achieved.

They won their final match of the season against Andover, when Liz Solomon scored two goals, giving her a final goal tally of 17.

The men’s seconds have the longest season of all the club’s teams and still have two matches left to play.

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New training times are:

Wednesday, from 5.30pm6.30pm, Women & Girls (WAGs); 6.30pm-8pm, The Adults; from April 23, 5.30pm-6.30pm years 9 and 10 (under-15s).

Junior sessions will be held on Friday evenings – again –

Despite some battles with player availability, they have fought hard throughout and currently sit mid-table in the South Central Forest League. Anyone who would like to get involved with the club, should email secretary@ swanageandwarehamhc.org.uk or visit www. swanageandwarehamhc.org.uk, or find them on Facebook.

from April 25, with the following times for the various age groups: Years 1 and 2, 4pm-4.55pm; years 3 and 4, 5pm-6pm; years 5 and 6 (under-13s) 6pm-7pm.

Mike Nash, from the club, said: “All of the ECBaccredited coaches have not only been impressed, but have also enjoyed seeing many new

and familiar faces, both old and young, during the winter training sessions and are looking forward to carrying that momentum on into the new season.”

Anyone interested in playing for or sponsoring the club, should contact Tim Ives at timswanagecricket@gmail. com.

Swans end season on a high

by Ron Butler

Combe Down 21

Swanage & Wareham 48 SWANAGE and Wareham made the trip to Combe Down for their final game in the league this season.

Combe Down applied the early pressure, but in the second half of the first period, and in the second half, Swans were dominant.

The hosts kicked long into the Swans 22 from the start of the game and controlled the first 20 minutes but Swans’ defence held firm.

However, Combe Down opened the scoring with a converted try after a scrum close to the Swans line.

Combe Down kicked ahead from the re-start and Swans

RUGBY

centre Meli Yawalaga caught the ball and after a great run scored under the posts for a fine individual try. Max Philips converted (7pts each).

Wing forward Isea Dracala caught the ball from the kick-off and broke clear to score under the posts. Philips added the extras (7-14) after 25 minutes.

Combe Down failed to find touch five minutes later and full back George Crouch fielded the ball and set off for the try line, avoided several tackles and scored out wide (7-19).

Two minutes later, once again the ball came to Crouch, who broke clear to score his second try (7-24).

Swans were penalised from the re-start and a second penalty to Combe Down saw them take a tap/go under Swans’ posts to score their second converted try (14-24) after 38 minutes.

The hosts were penalised from the re-start and Swans kicked to within 5 metres.

Yawalaga scored from the line-out for his second try in the last minute of the first half (14-29).

The second half started with a quiet first 10 minutes, but from a line-out on the Combe Down 22, Isea Dracula went clear to score a try out wide taking Swans to 34 points.

A few minutes later Swans were penalised and the hosts tried a tap/go, and after a few phases scored their third

converted try (21-34) after 55 minutes.

Swans continued to play out wide and from a scrum the ball came out to replacement winger Luke Tokatokavi who scored in the corner. George Crouch added the extras (21-41) after 65 minutes.

Five minutes later, a break from the half way line had winger Ollie Dillon score under the posts. George Crouch added the conversion (21-48).

Swans: George Crouch, Rory Ferguson, Meli

OTHER RESULTS: Swans 2nd XV 21 East Dorset Dockers 12.

The men’s first team won South Central League Division 3

Yawalaga,Ed Dimescio, Ollie Dillon, Max Phillips,, Ollie Peters, Tony Crouch, Jack Young, Zach Wyburgh, Duncan McDermid, Kian Salina, Jonny Blackmore, Asia Dracala, Tom Holland, Sam Chapman, Gary Smith, Luke Tokatokavi.

Revive Your Home and Garden This Spring

As the days grow longer and the first signs of spring emerge, there’s no better time to breathe new life into your home and garden.

Whether you’re looking to refresh a room or transform your outdoor space, spring offers the perfect opportunity to embrace the season of renewal. Here are some simple yet effective ideas to help you revive your surroundings.

Bring Nature Inside

After a long winter, the indoors can feel a bit uninspired and dull. To revive your living spaces, consider introducing natural elements. Fresh flowers, houseplants, and fragrant herbs are excellent ways to add vibrant colour and life to your home. Succulents,

ferns, and peace lilies are particularly well-suited for spring, creating a calming atmosphere while purifying the air.

Revamp with Colour

Nothing says ‘spring’ like a pop of colour. Whether it’s through cushions, throws, or artwork, incorporating bright shades like soft greens, cheerful yellows, or pastel blues can instantly lift the mood of any room. For a more substantial update, consider painting a feature wall or refreshing your furniture with a coat of paint.

Get with

Home Improvements

Get your garden ready for Summer with Suttles

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It’s never too late to refresh and rejuvenate your garden and Suttle Stone Quarries extensive range of decorative chippings, building aggregates, soils, sleepers and more are the perfect place to start! Whether you’re at the start of your garden renovation journey or simply looking for the finishing touches, they have something to suit every need.

Their range of Dorset limestone chippings from their quarry in the heart of the Isle of Purbeck, are not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical and hard-wearing, able to withstand the elements and maintain their beauty for years to come. Ideal for use on driveways and pathways as well as for all of your decorative needs. If limestone chippings don’t take your fancy they have a range of other decorative chippings to suit every aesthetic.

If planting is more your thing, then their 10mm Screened Soil will be of interest; a great nutrient rich soil for flower beds and vegetable patches. For the bigger details don’t forget your sleepers and gabion baskets! Sleepers are perfect for borders, creating raised beds and supports including steps, whereas gabion baskets filled with their Dorset gabion limestone are an ideal way of creating stability within garden designs and you can also use them to create bespoke garden furniture that will stand the test of time.

All of these products and more are available for nationwide delivery, or you can collect from their Mannings Heath Road Depot in Poole, near Tower Park.

For sales and any other enquiries you can visit their website www.suttles.co.uk, call them on 01929 439444 or alternatively you can email them at info@suttles.co.uk

Home Improvements

G arden Makeover

Your garden, too, can benefit from a spring refresh. Start by clearing away any winter debris and pruning back overgrown shrubs. Planting a mix of perennials, such as lavender or daisies, will ensure vibrant blooms throughout the warmer months. Don’t forget to tend to your lawn, as a quick rake and feed can rejuvenate tired grass.

Outdoor Living Spaces

As the weather improves, we spend more time outside. Create an inviting outdoor retreat with comfortable seating, string lights, and potted plants. A small table for alfresco dining or a cosy nook with a hammock can turn your garden into the ultimate relaxation spot.

Final Touches

This Easter, make your home and garden a reflection of spring’s beauty and energy. With a few thoughtful touches, you can transform your space into a rejuvenating haven.

Small changes can have a big impact. Swap out heavy winter curtains for light, airy fabrics, and opt for lighter, breathable bedding. Tidy up entryways with welcoming mats or baskets for shoes.

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Reaching for the stars: Astronaut’s town visit

BRITISH astronaut, Tim Peake, is set to bring the awe and wonder of space travel past, present and future to Bournemouth.

In Astronauts: The Quest to Explore Space, he will reveal what spaceflight is really like, from the wondrous view of Earth and living in weightlessness to the unique dangers and unexpected moments of humour.

He will also talk about the years of training and gruelling psychological and physical pressures an astronaut must endure.

“It seems like yesterday I was launching to space, and I still hold the very deep honour

Classic comedy over dinner

LAUGHTER is the name of the game with the return of two old favourites to Lighthouse Poole.

Faulty Towers – The Dining Experience, in the Beacon Café from Thursday to Sunday, September 11-14, has been entertaining diners since 1997.

Manuel, Sybil and Basil will serve up surprises as these much-loved characters greet, seat and serve guests while everything seems to be going wrong.

The action happens as the

and excitement of that day very close,” Tim said.

“Being able to tour the country, with a special show like The Quest To Explore

audience enjoy a three-course meal including a soup starter, a main course and dessert.

Round the Horne, on Friday, November 7, revives the classic radio comedy show with its infamous movie spoofs and hilarious regular characters such as Julian and Sandy, Rambling Syd Rumpo and J Peasemold Gruntfuttock.

Round the Horne, a cultural phenomenon, drew up to 15 million listeners and made stars of Kenneth Horne, Kenneth Williams, Hugh Paddick and Betty Marsden.

The show features a selection of the greatest sketches and songs from its 67 original episodes.

It is created with the blessing and support of the estates of the show’s writers, Barry Took and Marty Feldman.

Space, where I can share just a small taste of what I experienced as an astronaut, reliving my own journey and sharing stories from those

ground-breaking moments in space exploration, is absolutely fantastic.

“I hope the stories I share will give people a special insight into the magic of space and continue to inspire generations of future space explorers.”

Tim Peake joined the European Space Agency (ESA) in 2009, after an 18-year career in the Army – making history in December 2015 as the first British astronaut to visit the International Space Station.

He retired from the ESA in 2023 but has continued to work with them and the UK Space Agency as an ambassador for space to inspire young people to follow careers in science, technology, engineering and maths.

Astronauts: The Quest to Explore Space is at the Pavilion Theatre on Thursday, September 18.

Diary entries are £6 plus VAT per entry. The deadline for the April 28 issue is NOON on Thursday, April 17. Call on 01963 400186 or email adverts@blackmorevale.net. Please call prior to attending events listed to ensure they are still on.

(you dance with a partner) Starting on Wednesday 23rd April.

Corfe Castle Village Hall 8.40pm-9.40p.m

To reserve a place in the class contact; Donna Diebelius F.I.S.T.D ; 07518 056149 Email: purbeckdancestudio@gmail.com

The classic radio show, Round the Horne, is being revived at Lighthouse Poole

Very friendly group. Contact Richard: 01929 553516

Tim Peake is coming to the Pavilion Theatre, Bournemouth

Big names at family festival

THOUSANDS of music fans will be flocking to Baiter Park for Poole Harbour Festival this summer to see a star-studded line-up.

The three-day family event, which expects to attract 15,000 people, is headlined by legendary British reggae band UB40, multi-platinum pop punk heroes Feeder and notorious indie survivors Happy Mondays.

The bill also includes influential American art rockers We Are Scientists, British dance originals Dub Pistols and chart toppers The Hoosiers and N-Trance, plus party band The Vengaboys!

“We can’t wait to see friends old and new at Poole Harbour Festival this summer – it’s going to be amazing,” said

festival organiser, Ben Dyas.

“Once again, we’ve taken the positive feedback from last year’s festival and worked really hard to get everything in place to make sure 2025’s festival is the best yet.

“When we started nine years ago, we could only dream of getting headliners like UB40, Feeder and Happy Mondays, but thanks to our loyal supporters and growing reputation, we’re able to bring these high profile artists to Poole Harbour.”

The festival will feature more than 60 acts across the weekend and has introduced a fifth live music stage, the Smugglers Inn.

In the dance tent, a strong DJ bill is topped by club legends Judge Jules, Dave Pearce and

Lulu: A long life in music and more

POP sensation and National Treasure, Lulu, is renowned for her powerful voice and enduring career having burst onto the music scene in the 1960s with her chart-topping debut single, Shout, at the age of 15.

Last year she played Glastonbury and completed her sold out final tour, Champagne For – and now she is set to play the Concert Hall at Lighthouse Poole on Saturday, May 3.

Her distinctive voice and energetic performances quickly garnered international acclaim heralding a stellar career that has been marked by versatility, extending beyond music to encompass acting and television hosting.

Her iconic song To Sir with Love, from the film of the same name, became a timeless classic and throughout the decades,

PHF regular Brandon Block with further star turns promised by rising star Woody Cook, son of Fatboy Slim and Zoe Ball, the multi-million selling DJ Sash!, pioneering trance act Thrillseekers and hard house duo Tidy Boys.

The festival has not forgotten its roots and includes a full programme of live music talent from the BCP region and beyond with the ever-popular Mother Ukers on show

alongside fans’ favourites Mischa & His Merry Men, Sixteen String Jack, Lady Winwood’s Maggot and Saints of Sin, as well as top tributes to Queen, Elton John, Abba and The Prodigy.

Family fun is also on offer with entertainers, circus skills workshops and walkabout performances.

Poole Harbour Festival runs from Friday to Sunday, July 25-27, at Baiter Park.

Piano trio in concert

Lulu has continued to evolve, embracing various musical genres and collaborating with artists as diverse as David Bowie, Paul McCartney, Elton John, Take That and Russell Watson.

She became the iconic leading voice for James Bond’s The Man with The Golden Gun and her contributions to the industry have earned numerous accolades, including a Grammy nomination for Whos’ Foolin’ Who, an acting award from The British Film Awards and the Honorary Gay Award at the Attitude Awards.

More recently, Lulu stars alongside Diane Keaton in Arthur’s Whisky, a charming, feelgood comedy about living in the moment directed by Stephen Cookson and streaming on Sky Cinema and other services.

BROADSTONE Music Series is set to present the Fiesole Piano Trio at Lytchett Minster Church.

The trio are celebrated for their dynamic performances and adventurous repertoire, dedicated to reshaping the traditional piano trio experience.

The ensemble combines musicians from the United

COMEDIAN Andy Parsons, known for his appearances on BBC’s Mock the Week, among other television shows, is coming to The Mowlem in Swanage this winter.

Parsons is returning to the venue with his new show, Please #@!$ off to Mars, after a sell-out performance in 2023.

Parsons started his career writing for Weekending, and Smith and Jones, and went on to become one of the main writers on the ground-

States, Poland, Russia and the UK, each contributing a distinct musical heritage.

This rich diversity enables the trio to craft a unique and captivating sound.

The concert is on Saturday, April 26, at 4.30pm and tickets are adults £15, up to 18 £3, from broadstonemusicseries. info – a small fee applies.

breaking Spitting Image.

He has performed on numerous radio and television shows, including Live at the Apollo, QI, The Stand-Up Show, The Comedy Store and They Think It’s All Over.

He also has a highly acclaimed political podcast, Slacktivist Action Group, recorded monthly at London’s Soho Theatre.

Parsons is appearing in collaboration with Off the Kerb Productions on Thursday, December 4.

The Poole Harbour Festival is expected to attract 15,000 music fans

Arts & Entertainment

Napoleonic Wars inspire novel

SEA-LOVER and author Paul Weston, from Brockhill, has visited all the locations for his latest historical novel by boat.

Paul spent 11 years as a merchant seaman on tankers, offshore and on ferries, and has sailed his own boats long distances.

His travels took him to the rocky creeks and tides of Brittany, the French canals, Catalonia’s Costa Brava, the desolate beaches of southern France and the forbidding entrance to the Moroccan city of Sale, which all feature in Gulf of Lions.

The book is set in 1805, the year of the Battles of Trafalgar and Austerlitz, and sees Lieutenant Snowden RN sent in HMS Oleander to the Mediterranean on a secret mission.

Gulf of Lions seeks to evoke the intrigue and dangerous operations conducted by the Royal Navy to undermine the French during the Napoleonic Wars.

Paul said: “The direct inspiration for my new novel came when my boat was in Palamos in the Costa Brava area of Catalonia.

“Walking with my wife along the low clifftop near the town, I looked down at a steep path leading up from the rocky beach below, and thought ‘I can just picture a beweaponed Snowden climbing up there in the darkness’.”

Gulf of Lions, was set to be released earlier this month. His other books in the series are Weymouth Bound, Not by Sea, and Cape Corse.

Disco diva in the convent

FEELGOOD musical comedy is on offer at The Regent in Christchurch next week when Milton Musical Society stages Sister Act.

The show, based on the hit 1992 film, was nominated for five Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

Disco diva, Deloris Van Cartier, is put in protective custody after witnessing a murder in the one place the police are sure she will not be a found – a convent!

Disguised as a nun, she finds herself at odds with both the rigid lifestyle and uptight Mother Superior.

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But, using her unique disco moves and singing talent to inspire the choir, Deloris breathes new life into the church and community – and blows her cover.

Soon, the gang is giving chase, only to find themselves up against Deloris and the power of her newly found sisterhood.

Sister Act features a moving story and is filled with powerful gospel music and outrageous dancing.

It runs from Thursday to Saturday, April 24-26, and £2 from each ticket will go to The Regent development fund.

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Lessons in cooking well on a budget

AS Dorset residents brace for further rises in the cost of living, Bournemouth Churches Housing Association (BCHA) is encouraging people to shop, cook and eat better with the help of its free Food for Life course.

Food for Life began in Bournemouth in September 2023 and has already helped hundreds of Dorset people to plan, buy and cook healthy meals on a small budget.

The one-day practical course runs for four weeks from Bournemouth Foodbank and is open to all Dorset adults.

BCHA Learn is the wellbeing, skills and employability arm of charitable housing trust BCHA.

Food for Life is being taught by trained counsellor and cooking tutor, Vicky Ashley. She said: “It’s an enjoyable

cooking-based course which also shares information on choosing and buying the best value, healthy ingredients. Each week we make a meal which people can either share together or take home to their families.

Any Dorset adult aged 19 or above can take part.

The course takes place at Bournemouth Foodbank in Haviland Road, Boscombe, on Thursday mornings and ingredients are provided free of charge.

Enrolment for the next course is at BCHA Learn, the Wellbeing Hub, 3-5 Palmerston Road, Boscombe, on Thursday April 24, from 10am-noon, with the course taking place for four Thursdays from May 1.

For more information, phone BCHA Learn on 01202 410595.