The Littledown Directory - February 2014

In this issue...

Local businesses Local News

- Church members peak with charity donation

Photography Competition Prize Wordsearch - Win Family Portrait Adventure Voucher

Regular Features

- Adventures of Nellie

Delivered FREE as part of The Bournemouth Directory series

February 2014

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Introduction

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The Bournemouth Directory Series Littledown & Pokesdown Edition Edition 36

Published by:

Stephen & Debbie Corney at Dorset Publications

Telephone:

01202 894397

Email: info@thebournemouthdirectory.co.uk

Copy deadline for the March 2014 edition: 22nd February 2014

Disclaimer: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that data in this publication is accurate, the publisher cannot accept any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause.

The Bournemouth Directory does not officially endorse any advertising material included within the publication. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval systems or transmitted in any form, without prior permission of the publisher.

Cover photo by Steph Groeger

Dear Littledown & Pokesdown, Welcome to your February edition of The Bournemouth Directory Series, The Littledown Directory! Despite the mixed weather we did manage to get out in Nellie, The Dorset Publications Campervan and this month she took us to The Solent Sky Museum. Hayden was so thrilled!

Nellie, actually has her own Facebook and Twitter pages now. There is also a new fun page right here in the magazine where you can test your knowledge of the South and see if you can recognise where she is‌ so Where is Nellie?

Do you need some financial advice? A new driveway?

A new bed? Your carpets need cleaning? Do you have windows that are all misted up? Do you need some entertainment for the children? Does the car need some body repairs? You can find all of these companies and much more inside The Littledown Directory.

There is also good news for you including a new Art Class coming up at the Suncliffe Hotel. The Bournemouth Bach Choir have a performance in March. Church members raised money for Lewis Manning. Farmer Palmers have lots to tell you and there is a free 6 week singing course for women! Finally there is a prize wordsearch puzzle as well as a recipe, so do get that all important cuppa and have a read. If you run a local club or society, please let me know, as I can promote you for free! If you have a business and would like to be included in The Littledown Directory, then please give me a call. We offer free editorials with three month packages. Oh yes, do enter our own photographic competition. You could have your photo printed on the front cover!

Stephen and I hope that you have a good couple of months and that the sun will return soon.

Very best wishes,

Debbie & Stephen Corney

Useful Numbers Local Police Bournemouth Airport Central Library Emergency Electric

101 01202 364000 01202 454848 0800 028 0247

Royal B’mouth Hosp Bournemouth Council Sembcorp Water Emergency Gas

01202 303626 01202 451451 01202 590059 0800 111 999

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Do you or a loved one need a little help at home?

Our team of friendly reliable carers specialise in assisting people who may need a helping hand with day-to-day tasks in their own home.

We arrive on time and minimise the number of different carers providing your care package.

Our service is completely flexible and can be adjusted as you or your loved one’s needs change. We provide care on a short-term or long-term basis, ranging from a daily visit through to 24 hour care, 7 days a week.

Our services include: • • • • • • • •

Help with washing, dressing and personal care Companionship Assistance with housekeeping Assistance with meal preparation Medication reminders Transportation and errands Hospital and respite cover Post operative support

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The Pure Magic of The Russian Ice Stars in Peter Pan on Ice

Wow, what a super performance! These ice skaters are just amazing. They glide around the ice with such elegance and finesse, yet with such strength and dynamism.

The spins, the rope flying, the famous ‘head banger’ all just took your breath away. Every moment was filled with heart felt dancing. It really was a total pleasure to watch. In addition to that was the acting itself and the clever facial expressions of each of the performers, all very different and perfect for their roles. Of course there was also our very own ‘actor and skater’ Simon Clarke from Wave 105. Well done on the rope scene, I bet you were spinning a bit after that!

The show was based on the Peter Pan story by J.M Barrie and was beautifully performed at The Pavilion in Bournemouth. Stephen and I here at Dorset Publications would like to congratulate all the performers, stage management team and Directors. You were fantastic!

We would certainly recommend seeing them if you can.

Here are a couple of photos to remind us of the night…

By Debbie Corney

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Planning for your future care Throughout our busy lives, we make arrangements for life events such as getting married, having a baby or writing a will. But most of us will not have thought about planning our end of life care, or having these discussions with our loved ones so that they know what we would want. This would be particularly important if we were to go on to lose the ability to make decisions for ourselves.

At The Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust we want to provide good end of life care for our patients. This might mean they spend their last days in their place of choice, comfortable, and with their families and friends.

For us to give good end of life care, we need to know about your wishes so that we can do our best to meet them. If you are able to make your wishes known, we will do our best to follow them wherever possible.

The Macmillan Unit at Christchurch Hospital offers specialist inpatient care to patients at the end of life, and support to their families. The team based at the Macmillan Unit also offer specialist advice 24 hours a day to help deal with problems in the community and in the acute hospital, which is where people are cared for through their final days.

Advance care planning involves talking to your family, friends and health professionals (GP, nurse or hospital doctor) about what is important to you, so that they are able to work with you to plan for what you want. This becomes particularly important if you later become less well and are unable to tell people your wishes.

You may want to talk about: • where you would want to be cared for - some people say that they would want to stay at home if they become less well. However, this may not be a realistic choice in some circumstances, for instance, if you live alone

• are there certain treatments that you would not want? Do you need to find out more about your options? Some treatments may cause more harm than good. For example, cardiopulmonary resuscitation on a frail elderly patient is rarely successful and frequently causes harm such as fractured ribs • your wishes and preferences - how do you prefer things? - would you rather have a side room or share a bay with others?

• do you like to sleep with the lights on? Is there anyone in particular that you would want to visit you?

• do you have religious beliefs that are important to you and that you would want to be considered if you were at the end of your life?

• who you would like to be consulted on your behalf if you were unable to make your own decisions?

• practical things, such as who would look after your pets • how to let people know your wishes Regardless of where you may spend your final days, good advance care planning is important so that others can take your wishes into consideration. It ensures that your preferences are known and gives you a degree of control.

At our hospitals there are a number of things we are doing to ensure that we can provide good end of life care and support to our patients and their families: • we have appointed a dedicated nurse to support patients at the end of life • all wards have an end of life care champion - a member of nursing staff with particular expertise • there are monthly teaching sessions open to all staff • the Macmillan Unit is providing advance care planning training for staff in the community The NHS in Dorset has produced an advance care planning guide to help you prepare for the future and assist with practical arrangements. To download a copy visit our website at www.rbch.nhs.uk or call us on 01202 704271.

Wildlife News

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Talking about Wildlife...

The Common Dormouse Despite its elusiveness, the common or hazel dormouse, with its fairy tale looks, is one of the most popular British mammals. It is famous for its penchant for a good sleep, and, being arboreal, spends most of its active time up in the tree canopy searching for food. Dormice are also nocturnal and hence even more difficult to spot.

The tiny dormouse’s round body is covered with golden coloured fur, and large black eyes are an indication of its nocturnal existence. The adults only grow up to 6 to 9 cm in length, with a slightly shorter bushy tail, and weigh from about 25 to 40 grams at their heaviest, right before hibernation. The hibernation period generally lasts from October to April or May, in a hibernation nest built on the ground.

This is a vulnerable time for the dormouse, and not all survive it. The dormouse diet mainly consists of nuts, berries, owers and pollen, as well as small insects.

Hazelnuts are of particular importance when they prepare for hibernation by building up body fat.

Dormouse is most often found in deciduous woodland with plenty of undergrowth, hazel coppice and thick hedgerows, and its current stronghold is in the southern counties of England and Wales. Once widespread in Britain, the dormouse population has decreased dramatically in the last 100 years, despite the fact that they have few natural predators. Dormice are extremely vulnerable to changes in habitat and the decline in numbers is mainly due to changes in woodland management and the resulting habitat loss. Today, dormice are a rare and endangered species. They are strictly protected by law and it is illegal to even handle one without a license.

By Niina Silvennoinen Common Dormouse

Photo: Anna Muckle

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          

  14/9/11

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You CAN Sing

A free six week singing course for women On six consecutive Tuesday evenings, commencing on 4th March a local ladies choir (Wessex Harmony) offers a free singing course for women. This is aimed at promoting the enjoyment of close harmony singing through friendship and fun.

The proven benefits of singing, to personal well being both mental and physical are well documented and cannot be emphasised too highly.

It’s also a great way to make friends and meet new people.

You will be taught important techniques, helping you to enjoy the rewards of high quality singing.

No experience is needed, just the ability to carry a tune and have fun. Why not come along and enjoy this opportunity that is offered with no strings attached?

Even if you have sung before, maybe at school, church or similar - perhaps informally with friends, karaoke or even in the shower, this is an opportunity to remind yourself of the basic techniques and perhaps learn some new ones!

The Musical Team will help those joining the Course.

The aim will be to cover the basic techniques of: • Posture • Breathing • Vocal resonance and support • Good performance technique But most importantly how to enjoy the experience Wessex Harmony aims to always sing to a high standard and regularly takes part in Shows and Concerts in support of charitable events such as ‘Save

the Children’, Dorset Youth Cancer Trust’, ‘Royal National Institute for the Blind’ and more. The choir compete in Music Festivals and provide the musical entertainment for a range of celebratory occasions, from Olympic Flames to Christmas Concerts.

You can find out more and register your interest at: www.wessexharmony.co.uk or telephone Carol Head—01202 887707 or Sue Banton—01202 513401.

Weekly rehearsals are at Canford Heath Community Centre, Mitchell Road, BH17 8SA (car park behind The Pilot) at 7.30pm each Tuesday.

Wessex Harmony is a very friendly and welcoming chorus of ladies who would love you to join them in March.

Here’s a new FUN page for you!

14

Where is Nellie?

Do you know the South of England? Can you recognise these places? These are just some of the sights that Nellie, the rather large Dorset Publications Campervan has travelled to in the last few months. The answers are at the bottom of the page so you can immediately see if you are right. Most are easy, but one or two maybe a challenge…? Have a go and see how many places you know! You can also follow her...

whereisnellie

@whereisnellie 2

1

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5

4

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1. Compton Abbas Airfield 2. Brighton “Eye” and Pier 3. Wareham Quay 4. Town Quay, Southampton 5. Bournemouth Air Festival 6. Swanage Beach

15

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16

Community News

Don’t bin it - create with it!

My name is Barbara Becker; I love the coast, nature and snippets of scenes. I enjoy capturing the essence of what I see.

Making use of recyclable materials such as cardboard, tissue from shoe boxes and newspaper to build layers and texture, I then paint using Acrylics. I’d say my work is ‘eco friendly’!

Sometimes my inspiration comes from good composition I’ve seen in a postcard or photo. My paintings can be viewed and bought from Bistro on the Beach at Southbourne or contact me by email on: creativity128@yahoo.com I look forward to hearing from you...

Barbara Becker

Bournemouth & Beyond Discovery Group Two teachers, invited to teach both girls and boys in a remote valley in northern Pakistan, gave the opening presentation in our Spring Series of talks.

This was followed by an absorbing presentation of the history of the Army and Experimental work at the Barracks in Christchurch, including the invention of the Bailey bridge.

“From Barbados to Dorset”, “Study of flora and fauna at Studland” and “The tower at Sway” are among the talks in our calendar. Day and half day visits to interesting places are in place and our Autumn talks programme is an exciting prospect.

Join us Tuesdays 7.30pm at St. Andrews United Reformed Church Hall, St. Stephens Road, Bournemouth, BH2 6JJ. Membership: £18.00 per person for 12 evenings.

Visitors £2.50 per evening. Find out more on our website: www.bournemouthandbeyond.co.uk See you there!

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17

18

Clarity Hearing Solutions are awarded Gold Standard rating in new best practice scheme Clarity Hearing Solutions in Christchurch and Verwood has been awarded ‘Consultant Approved’ accreditation

by Phonak, the world’s leading manufacturer of hearing instruments. In a first of its kind, the award recognises the centre as offering an outstanding level of care to their customers and best practice in audiology.

To qualify under the ‘Consultant Approved Site’ scheme and become recognised as a centre of excellence, audiologists at Clarity Hearing Solutions were required to pass a series of audits against best practice set by an independent advisory panel, made up of some of the best clinicians in the country, including Harley Street audiologist Rony Ganguly and Professor Quentin Summerfield from the University of York.

The journey towards becoming a ‘Consultant Approved Site’ started off with a simple self assessment form, whereby audiologists at Clarity Hearing Solutions analysed themselves to see where they measured against the best practice ideals identified by the programme. They were then audited by independent experts, each with their own fields of expertise.

Hearing Aid Audiologist Simon Cowell said: “We are extremely proud to have achieved ‘Consultant

Approved’ accreditation from Phonak as part of the new scheme. It is a great way for us to illustrate to customers the level of experience and loyalty that we can offer here at Clarity Hearing Solutions, while also allowing us to ensure we are delivering consistently high standards that exceed industry standards.”

Phonak Managing Director, Stuart Neilson said: “Phonak has been a pioneer of hearing instrument development for more than 60 years. We are proud of our longstanding relationship with Clarity Hearing Solutions and the Consultant Approved Site programme is a way of promoting the outstanding quality service and expertise that they deliver every day. As market leader, we want to make it easier for members of the general public to find the best possible help and we’re confident the Consultant Approved Site will help people navigate the market.”

For more information on the Consultant Approved Site programme, visit: www.phonakpartner.com/consultant-approved For more about the services offered at Clarity Hearing Solutions, visit: www.clarity-solutions.com

19

Are you having trouble with your trolley or ride on buggy? Pulling to one side?

Battery not lasting the full 18 holes?

We are able to offer a repair facility for just about any make of electric golf trolley. Most repairs done while you wait!

Let us help keep you on course - give us a call today!

Online store for spare parts, accessories, batteries and chargers:

www.golftrolleyworkshop.co.uk Monthly Free Battery Raffle on all repairs!

Golf Trolley Workshop Keeping you on course

T: 01425 627564 M: 07836 637608

E: jim@golftrolleyworkshop.co.uk

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20

Farmer Palmers made a choice to work with children & animals!!

It’s a constant surprise that there is any room left on the Farmer Palmers Farm Park letterhead after listing all of the awards that this fabulously family run farm park has won! And every one more than worthy! They have just added the Primary Times Overall Winner 2013 award, voted for by the fabulous readers of the popular parent/children’s magazine, and Dorset Tourism award to the list.

As they say – every picture tells a story – so have a good look at these pictures and you’ll understand where we are coming from! When did you last visit? 2014 is a good year to live for the moment, set a date to go and see how much they have added. One thing is for sure, the grass does not grow under Farmer Palmer’s feet!

This is a haven of fun for the under 8s and therefore designed specifically for you and your family! It is secure, it is spacey, and it is stimulating and fun! The interaction between the animals and children is magical! The key here at Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park is authenticity – remember this was a real working farm and the family are farmers! Now in their 16th year – hold your horses – can that be?

So the tractor ride is on a real tractor, the straw mountain is harvested straw, the walk is in woodland and there is a real Farmer! Remember the indoor and outdoor play areas help to burn off that excess energy while you take time out to relax.

The animals are loved and looked after as part of the extended family, and

what a big family it is! Ponies, donkeys, alpacas, rheas, lambs, deer, sheep, chicken, pigs, cows and guinea pigs… you’re in Farmer Palmer land now and the word is – spring babies are all on their way. Cute chicks, lambs, baby goats and piglets are all due and will be keen to meet your little ones.

The hands on feeding sessions can take all sorts of funny turns as obviously the Palmers have taken the executive decision to work with both children and animals!

Staff have an excellent attitude, are friendly and approachable, understanding the needs of parents with little ones.

There seems to be a never ending

21 wish list of fun, entertainment and amusement – with of course some cunning, (and to children), invisible education.

The new plans for the park include a new barn which is being created by a team of local craftsmen, builders and architects. Eventually it will be an exciting area for the animals and will mean new breeds can be brought on to the farm. Animals always give the park a platform for imagination and theatre focussing on interaction from the children. The Palmers love attention to detail and It is, admittedly, taking time to “get it right”. This bold and brave new build can be followed on Facebook as updates are available!

2013 has seen additional investment in the form of a new bio mass boiler (an example of the forward thinking of this family) which is now heating the shop, the offices and the Hen House. They say that the site is also fuelled by solar energy – but we genuinely believe that all the energy that makes this farm park such a massive success (endorsed by the many annual pass holders, devoted staff and the wonderful Trip Advisor Reviews prove it) comes from Sandra and Phillip’s drive and imaginations – and quite frankly long may it last!

Two factors rule at farmer Palmers Farm Park and they are fun and safety

– what a recipe for keeping those little ones happy! The entry price is great value and there are all kinds of ticket incentives throughout the year keep your eye on Facebook and the website.

There’s the fantastic Hen House Café rammed full of tasty homemade goodies, ideal for re-fuelling. The homemade cakes, with a cup of coffee are reason enough to steer across the county and make a day trip to one of the best value for money attractions around.

Bring your camera – and that’s all you need, everything else is laid on.

The annual passes work out to be the equivalent of £1.00 a week or £40 a year. That will take the sting out of hearing your little ones say: “Mum, I want to go to Farmer Palmers again tomorrow!” www.farmerpalmers.co.uk

22

Community News

Church members peak with charity donation Members of the Church of Scientology in Poole presented Lewis-Manning Hospice with a cheque following last year’s Welsh 3 Peaks challenge, which saw the group raise money for the charity by climbing to the summit of Wales’ highest 3 peaks in as many days.

wife had need of their help a few years ago. She had cancer and came to the hospice for some treatment briefly. That was in 2009. She did lose her battle, sadly, and passed away in 2010. So, from a personal point of view at least, supporting your work is something I am very willing to do.”

The very physical challenge saw the team complete all the routes and collectively raised over £1200 for the hospice, which supports over 650 local people living with cancer and other lifelimiting illnesses.

Martin adds, “Lewis Manning Hospice, through their work, are clearly an asset to us and often we need them for some harrowing times in life.

I can’t imagine a tougher job to do every day.”

The Poole branch undertake a challenge at least once a year for a local charity and this year picked Lewis-Manning for quite personal reasons.

Martin Budden, one of the group, explains, “We picked Lewis-Manning as they are known for what they do, and it is something that takes quite some courage. From my own point of view, my

Sara Johnson, Community Fundraiser at LewisManning, said, “We are so thankful to have been supported from this tremendous effort by Martin and Megan and the group. It is humbling when members of community push themselves to take on such physically demanding challenges to help support our patients and their families during very distressing times.”

Sara Johnson (centre), Community Fundraiser at Lewis-Manning Hospice, receiving the cheque from Martin Budden and Megan Parkinson of The Church of Scientology in Poole

23

Host Families Required Can you accommodate International Students in a safe and happy family environment?

ETC International College requires caring host families to accommodate students in any of these areas: Town Centre | Charminster | Westbourne | Talbot Woods Winton | Branksome | Parkstone | Westcliff | Ensbury Park Littledown | East Cliff | Southbourne | Pokesdown | Boscombe Moordown

Please contact us on: Tel | (01202) 544161 or (01202) 559044 Email | accommodation@etc-inter.net

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Tastes so good...

Recipe

PARSNIP QUICHE WITH BLUE CHEESE

This dish can be eaten hot or cold and it’s great for lunch boxes. You can use up leftover cooked veg from the Sunday roast instead of the freshly cooked parsnip. Sweet potato or carrot can be exchanged for the parsnip.

Ingredients: Shortcrust pastry: 100g salted butter 200g plain flour 4-5 tbps cold water Filing: 200g parsnip, peeled & sliced 1 shallot, diced 3 eggs 175ml crème fraiche 290ml milk 1/2 tsp mixed spice or korma curry powder 50g good blue cheese 50g ham or cooked bacon Diane Johnson

Equipment: 23cm / 9 inch buttered/greased loose bottomed flan dish. Rolling pin Method: Make the pastry by rubbing the butter into the flour until it resembles bread crumbs. Add sufficient water to bring the pastry together into a ball without it being sticky and leave to rest for half an hour covered in the fridge.

Cook the parsnip in boiling water until soft. Leave to cool. Fry off the shallot until soft. Set to one side to cool. Line a 9 inch greased flan dish with the rested pastry. Prick the bottom of the base gently with a fork to stop air bubbles forming. Bake blind (this will avoid the famous "soggy bottom"!) by crumpling baking parchment and placing it in the pastry case being careful not to tear the pastry. Then fill with ceramic baking beans spreading them out evenly. Cook at 450º F for 20 minutes until lightly brown and a little crisp.

Remove the paper and beans. Whilst the pastry case is cooking beat the eggs together and add the creme fraiche and milk, incorporating all together with a whisk. Puree or mash the parsnip with the spice or korma and gradually add to the egg mixture until thoroughly mixed. Once the pastry case has come out of the oven dot the base with the blue cheese, onion and ham. Pour the egg mixture into the pastry case and bake on 180ºC for 45 minutes, or until the centre doesn’t wobble.

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26

Money Saving Tips

Martin

LEWIS Tackle your bills

Winter is coming. Don’t wait until you’re knee-deep in the white stuff to sort your bills. Here, prevention truly beats cure – tackling your bills now means you can take the financial bite out of winter chills…

Free loft insulation and even boilers (for some).

While the loft insulation free-for-all's ended, some will still be entitled to some serious free energy-saving measures.

Most of the big six energy firms offer free boilers, typically worth £2,000, and free insulation, usually worth about £300. Crucially, you don't need to be with the energy provider to get it, but you do generally need an income under £16,000, and to be on income-related benefits or pension credit. I can’t definitely say you’ll qualify, but it is worth checking. Alternatively, the wellmeaning but stuttering Green Deal initiative is designed to let you pay for things like underfloor heating, double glazing and solid wall insulation, from the 'savings' you make on energy bills. Deciding whether it’s right for you is complex, so for full help read www.moneysavingexpert.com/greendeal

comparison on any Ofgem-approved comparison site – just search for The Confidence Code at www.ofgem.gov.uk to see the full list.

If you're not online, use a comparison with a phone service, such as Energyhelpline on 0800 074 0745, or uSwitch on 0800 051 5493.

Paying energy bills by monthly direct debit’s up to 6% cheaper.

If you can, do, as it’ll usually mean discounted bills of up to 6% less, so contact your provider to check. Though always do regular meter readings for accuracy, as your bill is estimated. If it’s too high, you have a right to ask for it to be lowered.

Got electricity only? You can still save.

With electricity only, you can still get a cheap fix to save just follow the info above. For those on Economy 7, assessing is trickier. It’s only really a boon for those who use at least 40% of their energy at night. If not – don’t bother. Full help to decide at www.mse.me/eco7

Can you find your stopcock?

No sniggering - winter frozen pipe bursts can create an Save £100s and beat the hikes. average £7,000 of damage, often worsened as many Rather surprisingly, fixing energy, where you lock in a set scrabble round searching for their stopcock - the mains rate, is now cheaper than a normal switch. Five of the big water off switch - for ages as their home floods. six energy providers have now announced hikes, and their best new prices are costlier than the cheapest fixed Take the time to find it now – mine is under the kitchen sink. Others find theirs in the bathroom or inside a tariffs. So right now you can get the very cheapest deals cupboard. If yours isn’t working, you may want to call a available, and it comes with no-hike certainty. plumber now, before it’s a problem.

The only exception to this is a variable (ie, subject to Choosing between heating and eating? hikes) tariff from minnow Spark Energy – though it hasn't If you're seriously behind, or in general financial hardship hiked (yet?), needs paying upfront, and feedback ain't - as far too many are after the hikes - you may be eligible great, so I’m ignoring it. for special help. Call the Home Heat Helpline on 0800 33 The cheapest fix comes from E.on for a year, but slightly longer and only a touch more are deals from EDF or Npower. Crucially, these two have no exit penalties. So on the off-chance the Prime Minister delivers the price cuts he’s promised, and the even more unlikely event that they’ll be so substantial that other tariffs elsewhere are cheaper, you'll be free to leave.

However, always do the numbers for your own circumstances. To check if you can save (you may be on an older, cheaper deal), and who your winner is, you can use my Cheap Energy Club top fixes comparison at www.cheapenergyclub.com, or do a standard

66 99 to check. Plus if anyone in your home was born on or before 5 January 1952, you're due up to £300 in taxfree winter fuel payments. Payments should be made automatically, but if you’ve never had it before then you may need to register - see www.gov.uk.

Plus anyone on specific income support, jobseekers' allowances or pension credit gets £25 in cold weather payments for every 7 days it's sub-0 C.

@MoneySavingExpert

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28

Community News

Photography Competition!

Are you an amateur photographer?

Do you have photos of scenery in Poole, Bournemouth, Christchurch, Southbourne, Ferndown, Wareham, Swanage or even the New Forest?

Would you like to see your photo on a front cover, in print on thousands of magazines as well as have your own photo with a small article about you inside the magazine?

Well, then this competition is for you!

If you would like to enter please email, in a high resolution, your photos to photos@dorsetpublications.co.uk. I have already had some remarkable photos given to me, so go on give it a go. Every month there will be a different photo featured and we look forward to featuring your photo!

                                          

Bournemouth Bach Choir perform

“Nelson Mass” by Joseph Haydn, “Dixit Dominus” by Handel and “Furchte Dich Nicht” by J S Bach at Christchurch Priory on 15th March at 7.30 pm Conducted by Tim Hooper with orchestra Soloists include Abbi Temple and Daniel Rudge both Dorset-born singers.

Tickets available from Regent Centre on 01202 499199 or Nigel Spratt on 01202 824413

29

Adventures of Nellie

30

The Adventures of Nellie The Dorset Publications Camper Van We had a real treat this month when Nellie, the rather large Dorset Publications campervan, took us to see the amazing planes on display at The Solent Sky Aviation Museum in Southampton.

A very good neighbour of ours arrived on our doorstep one Saturday morning after reading about Nellie’s adventures at Compton Abbas. In that article I had said that Hayden, our ten year old son, keeps telling us he wants to be a pilot.

Martin, our neighbour, had won tickets to the Solent Sky Museum in a local raffle and very kindly offered us the tickets to take Hayden for a day out. Well Martin, I can tell you that I have never seen Hayden quite this excited! It is possible to actually sit in the cockpit of some of the planes and you can see the sheer delight in Hayden’s glinting eyes, as he holds the controls! He was literally in his element.

I wonder what he will be like after his real trip behind the controls and his first flying lesson? (Funnily enough that hasn’t been arranged yet. We don’t fancy being blown over to France in pouring rain!)

I loved the morning at the museum and

Hayden strapped into the Harrier cockpit

WW1 Tiger Moth on display particularly enjoyed sitting in the Flying Boat cockpit with Hayden as well as watching the footage of the S6a which won the Schneider Trophy - Fascinating!

I have to admit that I am no expert at all when it come to planes, so Chris Smith, the Supervisor from the Solent Sky Museum has provided us with some information which I thought you may find interesting.

It gives you an impression of just how important the south of Britain was to the aircraft industry – and how that heritage is quickly being lost and forgotten…

Here’s Chris: “The Solent region (which we define as roughly a diamond shape with corners at Bournemouth, Eastleigh, Portsmouth and Isle of Wight) was the centre of the world for aircraft development between about 1910 and 1960.

“There were 26 aeroplane companies locally, and they built everything from Spitfires to jet fighters, space rockets, hovercraft and helicopters. Solent Sky Museum has roughly 20 airframes representing these companies, including our recently completed Schneider Trophy exhibition, including the Supermarine

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Sat in the cockpit of “Beachcomber” S6a which broke the world closed-circuit air speed record in 1929, at 325 mph.

The Spitfire was designed and built just down the road from the museum. 22,000 were built during WWII, 8,000 of those in Southampton – even after the factory was bombed, production moved to carpenters’ workshops and bicycle shops. In the museum we have a Mk24 Spitfire – one of the very last to be built, and the fastest and most powerful of them all.

“The Sandringham flying boat represents the Empire Airways flying boats which flew from Southampton to the British Empire. Southampton was the world’s largest flying boat port, and the very word “airport” comes from here. Built as a Sunderland bomber in 1943, our flying boat, ‘Beachcomber’, was modified to carry Chariot submarines and was later

Nellie outside the Solent Sky Museum

converted to a passenger aircraft. She flew the world’s last scheduled flying boat service in 1974, making her the last of the great flying boats.

“We have two jet fighter cockpits – a Harrier jump jet and Supermarine Swift. Visitors are encouraged to strap themselves in, and then flick all the switches and pull all the levers while making jet-fighter soundeffects, thus fulfilling our EU requirement to have ‘interactive’ exhibits. Our jet fighter collection includes the world’s only jet-fighter-flying-boat, the Saunders-Roe SRA/1.”

The museum is jam packed with exhibits If you want more information about the Solent Sky Museum please do visit their website, which can be found at www.solentskymuseum.org. I believe they are in need of some sponsorship too, so if you have a passion for planes and want to help, please let them know!

Of course we had our customary cuppa in Nellie by the sea at Town Quay watching the very active port in action. We were lucky this time with the weather, having blue skies and a warm day. Did you recognise where the photo on page 14 was taken?

Where will Nellie go next? See in the next issue of The Littledown Directory!

By Debbie Corney whereisnellie @whereisnellie

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Y A D S E N I T N E L A V N R

E B J O O D R A C Y T R A E H

L O G T N E V O L W Z C U U X

Q B R E Q P K U J C A R P Z R

A G O C E C N A M O R P Q R Q

H D U R B L M A P K Q P M R N

B M N S F X T O L S M O Y K W

U L D I I F R Y V V E R N K U

I W H S X B J O M W O J C Y G

T H O V E T P A Y B P N B C Y

S U G Z M A R D I G R A S J D

G Q D T E K C J P N T Q S X G

X O A J M L C R O S E Z N G E

G T Y O N V Q W V K D M X W K

Z C U F L O W E R S H M S I S

LOVE MARDI GRAS VALENTINES DAY GROUNDHOG DAY HEART FLOWERS POEM CARD ROSE ROMANCE

This month, the prize is a family portrait adventure gift voucher from Barrett & Coe (worth ÂŁ160), so please complete this page by 25th February and send to:

February Prize Wordsearch Name: The Littledown Directory, Address: 1 Moorlands Rise, West Moors, Ferndown, BH22 0JR Telephone:

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Community News

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Wildlife enthusiast reveals secrets of creating stunning photography Award-winning photographer Tony Moss revealed an impressive knowledge of local wildlife at Moors Valley Country Park, near Ringwood on 24th January. Speaking at a special preview of the British Wildlife Photography Awards exhibition,Tony, whose photograph of a Bearded Reedling was Highly Commended in the competition, took a packed audience on a journey to some of his favourite locations as he explained how he works with the natural rhythms of each animal to capture his stunning imagery.

His Highly Commended shot was taken at Weymouth’s Radipole Lake.

“I like to set myself a project,” said Tony. “I heard the birds during a summer visit to the Park and their stunning call really stuck in my mind. It has a ringing, zinging quality that once heard is never forgotten.

However with 80 hectares of reed bed I knew it wouldn’t be easy to get the photograph I really wanted.

I also knew it would have to be a winter shot as the birds feed on ground insects in the summer and are rarely seen. It took me several visits to the Park, in some pretty cold weather to secure this shot so I was really delighted it was Highly Commended in the competition.”

Tony’s advice to would be wildlife photographers included pointing out that there was an awful lot of luck in photography, “But the more time you put in the luckier you get!”

Around 90 stunning images of British wildlife form the British Wildlife Photographer Awards exhibition and can be seen at Moors Valley Country Park until 8th March. The exhibition opens daily and admission is free, but parking charges will apply.

For more information go online to www.moors-valley.co.uk or call 01425 470721.

Katie Davies Countryside Interpretation Ranger at Moors Valley Country Park with Tony Moss and his Highly Commended image

Art class starts soon

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auto Motoring

BIOGRAPHIES PORSCHE 911 Carrera 4

By Tim Barnes-Clay, Motoring Writer

www.carwriteups.co.uk

@carwriteups

THIS GERMAN sports car maker seems to stir up my childhood memories. I had handfuls of Corgi and Dinky cars and the Porsche models were always the ones I cherished the most. I even had a 911 police car as part of my ‘Race and Chase’ game – an iffy imitation of the far superior Scalextric slot-car set.

So, even though I can’t afford one now I’m all grown up with kids of my own – I never pass up the opportunity to borrow a Porsche. The 911 in particular seems to leave an impression on everyone.

Why is this? Well, I reckon it’s the classic coupe shape – and the pure ‘racing car’ yowl the rear-engined beast makes when it comes ‘alive’. It’s an iconic sports car – simple as that.

The current Carrera 4 builds upon the legend further by providing all-wheel drive. The four-by-four grip is supplied via wizardry known as Porsche Traction Management (PTM). This dispenses power to the front and rear axles as road and driving conditions change – making for a thrilling, responsive, yet stable drive.

Unbelievably, despite the shot of adrenaline the 911 Carrera 4 gives you every time you go out for a spin, it doesn’t wolf down fuel. On a 100 mile trip from the Midlands to Norfolk I averaged 30mpg. That isn’t bad when you consider a 3.4 litre slab is shoehorned into the car.

Behind the wheel, that powerhouse enables the supernatural to happen every time you depress the accelerator. Fuel is injected fractions of a second prior to combustion, the engine responding spontaneously

to even the slightest movement of your right foot.

This isn’t only the case when picking up the pace, but also when lifting off. The seven speed manual transmission adds to the entertainment mix. Its slick action soon makes it seem entirely natural to shift all the way up to that seventh cog on the straights.

As for looks – well I’ve touched a little on those already – the outline of the 911 is the ‘meat in the sandwich’. Aside from brute force, it’s why you buy the car. So, subtlety is what the present Carrera 4 is all about. You’ll see modifications to the nose and tail and the more overt use of lighting technology: bixenon headlights and gorgeous, sparkly, LED daytime driving lights are fitted as standard. The 911 Carrera 4 is also wider across the rear wheel arches than its two -wheel drive sibling. And further definition is added courtesy of a reflective trim that spans the width between the striking rear lights.

The present-day Porsche 911 Carrera 4 is priced from £77,924, but you could end up spending thousands more on all the option packages available.

Rest assured though – your pricey pride and joy won’t go missing very easily. Fitted to every 911 is a Porsche Vehicle Tracking System (VTS) - a highly developed vehicle security package approved to Thatcham Category 5 standard. Can’t be bad, eh?

FAST FACTS  Max speed: 177 mph  0-62 mph: 4.9 secs  Combined mpg: 30.4  Engine: 3436 cc, 6 cylinders, 24 valve, petrol

PROS ‘N’ CONS Iconic Looks√ Rapid √ Grip √ Fuel Economy√ Expensive Op�ons X

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Max. power (bhp): 345 at 7400 rpm

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Index of advertisers

Your quick guide to everyone and everything in your Directory...

Appliance Repairs Thompson Group Service..................................11 Art Classes Seasons Art Classes..........................................35 Attractions Farmer Palmers................................................20 Beds The Bed Store................................................... 1 Blinds, Curtains & Shutters Ashley Blinds..................................................... 3 Block Paving & Driveways K & S Paving......................................................32 Resin Drives......................................................40 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning The Cleaning Doctor.........................................37 Carpets & Flooring Carpet Barn...................................................... 1 Children’s Activities Jo Jingles...........................................................25 Community News Adventures of Nellie.........................................30 Bournemouth & Beyond Discovery Group........16 Church members peak with charity donation....22 Don’t bin it... Create with it!.............................16 Dorset Wildlife Trust: The Common Dormouse....10 Recipe: Parsnip Quiche with Blue Cheese.........24 Computer Services Web Sites Plus.................................................. 8 Denture Services Dorset Denture Clinic........................................32 Drainage Services All Drains Cleared.............................................12 Electricians Dorset Electrical & Fire Alarms.........................12 Power & Light Electrical.................................... 8 Fencing Concept Fencing...............................................32 Financial Services Bournemouth Investments...............................27 Fire Alarms Dorset Electrical & Fire Alarms.........................12 Funeral Directors Deric-Scott........................................................27 Garage Doors Skandoor........................................................... 3 Garage Services Coastal Car Sales & Service.............................. 5 Golf Trolley Servicing & Repairs Golf Trolley Workshop......................................19 Health, Fitness & Wellbeing Bournemouth Careline.....................................11 Zumba Gold......................................................25 Hearing Aid Services Clarity Hearing Solutions..................................18

Kellear Hearing.................................................15 Home Care Right at Home (Bournemouth)......................... 5 Hot Tub Hire Party Tub Hire...................................................29 Hospitals Bournemouth & Poole NHS Trusts.................... 9 Kitchens Flair Interiors....................................................39 Kitchen Transformations..................................15 Portman Stone..................................................37 Language Schools ETC International College.................................23 Lofts Loft Services...................................................... 7 Mobile Vehicle Repairs Up-2-Scratch.....................................................19 Planning Consultants WB Planning..................................................... 7 Plumbing & Heating Bournemouth Plumbing Solutions....................32 C S Ray Plumbing & Heating.............................16 Harbour Heating...............................................15 P L H Heating....................................................11 Puzzles & Competitions Prize Wordsearch..............................................25 Where is Nellie?................................................14 Renewable Energy Solutions Nick Good Property Services............................. 2 Restaurants The Stone Lounge.............................................17 Stair Parts Briggs Products.................................................25 Swimming Tuition Individuality Swimming....................................19 Take Aways Sunny’s Fish & Chips.........................................29 Tree Surgeons Broadoak Tree Care..........................................19 Used Cars Coastal Car Sales & Service.............................. 5 Vocal Groups Wessex Harmony..............................................13 Waste Services All Clean Waste Management..........................25 Window Cleaners Peter Allen........................................................37 Window Repairs Mr Demister.....................................................12 Windows, Doors & Conservatories Allglaze............................................................. 7 Dorset Windows............................................... 8 Worktops Portman Stone.................................................. 6

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