The Bournemouth Directory - February/March 2016

The Bournemouth The independent directory of local businesses serving the residents of Queens Park, Littledown & Westbourne

In this issue...

Local businesses Local News Prize Wordsearch - Win a meal for two at The Overcliff Pub

Regular Features - The Adventures of Nellie - On your plot: Time to go undercover - Martin Lewis: Winter

Directory

Littledown Edition February/March 2016

THE ALTERNATIVE TO MAIN DEALER SERVICE COSTS

2

BMW - Mercedes - Porsche Mini - Smart - VW - Audi

During February 2016 only

MOT TEST Special Offer £40

• Factory trained engineers to full diagnostic status • Equipment for all ages of vehicles • Service, repairs and electric diagnostics on most makes of vehicle

• Timing Chain & Engine Re-builds • Air conditioning service and repairs • Collection and delivery or loan vehicles free of charge • Mobil lubricants

• Modern new premises • Ample customer parking • New in-house MOT centre OUR COMMITMENT IS TO FAIR AND SENSIBLE SERVICING AND REPAIR COSTS FOR ALL VEHICLES LIKE US ON FACEBOOK: Hughes-Workshop-Ltd Please contact our reception:

Phone: 01202 734433 Email: service@hughesworkshop.co.uk

WORKSHOP LTD

15-18 Cortry Close, Poole, BH12 4BQ www.hughesworkshop.co.uk To advertise in The Bournemouth Directory, please call: 01202 894397

3

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Introduction

The Bournemouth Directory - Littledown Edition

Edition 58

Published by:

Stephen & Debbie Corney at Dorset Directories Ltd

Telephone:

01202 894397

Email:

info@thebournemouthdirectory.co.uk

Copy deadline for the March 2016 edition: 22nd February 2016

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.

Dorset Directories Ltd 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.

Dear Littledown residents, Wow what a busy few months we have had! Nellie has had an interesting start to 2016 which can read all about on pages 26 and 27.

Did you make lots of New Year’s resolutions and are still successfully carrying them out? I do hope so. You may have decided to finally sort that space out once and for all, build a new conservatory, have a new carpet, sweep the chimney, see a new accountant or just have more meals out. Whatever it is for you, we are here to help. If there is a company you would like to recommend to us, or a club that needs some extra support or recognition, then do tell them about us.

I would also like to start a “Local Celebrity of the Month” page. This could be about anyone in fact, young or old, someone who has done some local charity work, has had an interesting career, has a great skill or talent, or a past family history of intrigue. I am very happy to come and interview the person myself, or the information could be sent in the post or by email. I really want to tell people’s stories. We love to hear about each other, read about people lives, interests and attainments, so please contact me if you know of someone, or you yourself would like me to come and meet you. You can “tell me all about it!” We will call the page “Local Celebrity – Tell Me All About It!” I am really looking forward to meeting local people.

The lucky winner of the prize wordsearch last month was M Beattie! Well done and we do apologise for the misspelling of socks! Hopefully you will enjoy your meal for two at the Overcliff Pub and this will make up for the time you spent on it.

Myself, Stephen, Hayden and Nellie would like thank you all for the support you continue to give to the magazine and the advertisers.

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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5

January

RY A U R B E F TO N I D E D N NOW EXTE

• • • •

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PLUS, SPREAD THE COST WITH INTEREST FREE CREDIT Ferndown Industrial Estate, WIMBORNE BH21 7PE, Tel: 01202 872240 NEW LOCATION Nuffield Ind Estate, Poole, BH17 0RR, Tel: 01202 723162

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The Bed Specialist

Community News

6

Who Do You Think You Are? Researching ones family tree has become an increasingly popular hobby in recent years especially with several series of programmes like ‘Who Do You Think You Are’ and ‘Long Lost Families’ being screened on television. That is why Dorset Family History Society is once again hosting its biennial ‘Family History Day’ at Parkstone Grammar School, Soper’s Lane, Poole, BH17 7EP on Saturday 12th March 2016, from 10am until 4pm. Admission is free as is car parking in the school grounds.

Whether one has researched their family history or has just started on the trail of discovering their ancestors, this is an ideal event to visit. Attending will be Family History Societies from other counties, organisations involved with genealogy, and commercial firms selling aids to research and storage materials. Dorset Family History Society will have a Help Desk to give assistance, books and DVDs will be on sale, and volunteers will be available to help with access to Dorset Family History Society’s extensive resources for both Dorset and elsewhere.

As in our last Family History Day in 2014 the centennial of World War One will be commemorated by remembering some key events and our ancestors of the time. There will be two talks during the day

each costing £1 although numbers are limited. Guest speakers will be historian David Fletcher MBE who worked at the Tank museum in Bovington for many years and will focus his talk on the role of the Tank in WW1. Sarah Paterson will give her talk on women’s contribution to the war effort especially at home, something which affected every family in the land.

There is easy access within the venue and refreshments will be on sale throughout the day. Details are available on www.dorsetfhs.org.uk

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7

Worried about how you will pay the tax man?

Credit cards creaking at the seams after Xmas?

Contact Dorothy Brown at Even Keel Financial for a confidential meeting and she can provide the relevant advice for your particular situation.

Tel: 01202 237 337

E: dorothy@evenkeelfinancial.co.uk

Drewitt House, 865 Ringwood Road, Bournemouth, BH11 8LW

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8

Community News

David Bowie tribute night to aid local hospice charity Elite Living Club, which has been providing Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole’s residents with exclusive daily deals at local restaurants, spas, hotels, activities and health clubs since 2012, has joined forces with Bournemouth’s latest bar and live music venue, Canvas, to donate ticket revenue from a forthcoming David Bowie Tribute Night to Lewis-Manning Hospice in Poole.

Following the recent death from cancer of the music legend, the tribute night to David Bowie takes place Friday March 11th at trendy new bar and live entertainment venue, Canvas, on Poole Hill, Bournemouth. Show tickets are £8, with a £25 two course dinner and show option available too. Donations from ticket revenues are being distributed to Lewis-Manning Hospice by both Elite Living and Canvas and there will also be a bucket collection for the charity on the night. Lewis-Manning provides free care and support for local people with cancer and other life-limiting illnesses and this year will be opening its bedrooms for 24/7 care.

Joshua Simons (Elite Living founder) comments, “We are delighted to be hosting this event at one of B o u r n e m o u t h ’s premier venues, and are excited at the prospect of raising money for such a worthy local

cause, whilst celebrating the life of David Bowie, a true legend, with a high quality tribute show.”

Paul Tucker, Communications Officer at Lewis-Manning Hospice added, “We are absolutely delighted that both Canvas and Elite Living have agreed to support Lewis-Manning Hospice at the David Bowie tribute night. We initially approached Canvas with the idea of doing a bucket collection having seen many others across the world fundraising for cancer charities following Bowie’s death. We were naturally thrilled when they agreed but to then get Elite Living’s offer of proceeds from ticket sales on top and then for Canvas to match-fund it, we are utterly overwhelmed and incredibly grateful for their generosity. Many of our hospice patients are affected by cancer and our aim is to help them live well with their illness for however long that might be. Every single penny we raise will help us to make a huge difference to these people’s lives.”

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9

Dog lovers wanted: Local company with over 35 years experience. Friendly and reliable service.

Rewires Downlights Fuseboards Extra Sockets Testing & Inspection

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www.waggingtailsuk.co.uk/bh/carers A franchise owned and operated under licence by K. Dalton Limited like us facebook.com/WaggingTailsBH

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ADVERTISEMENT

Cloudy2Clear Windows – Service With A Smile!

It’s been a crazy few months for Cloudy2Clear Windows.

The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames has grown rapidly as homeowners take advantage of their services.

Manager Matt Stensel feels that it’s all about service. ‘Our product is simple. If your double glazing is misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 5 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving people money, although that obviously helps.

Many tradespeople have struggled since last year and I honestly feel that during the good times a minority perhaps didn’t focus on customer care as much as they should have done. We make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. I often get comments back from customers on how they really didn’t expect that sort of service which, in a way, is very sad for the service industry as a whole.’

Cloudy2Clear service Bournemouth and the surrounding area & 0DWW LV ÀQGLQJ WKDW KLV approach is a major factor in his success. ‘The truth

is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing a good job but also it makes good business sense.

I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just

goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated.’

So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Matt a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!

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Wildlife News

Talking about Wildlife...

Help us to record wildlife!

Can you remember the last time you saw a hedgehog? Or a robin? Did you used to see them, but perhaps not recently?

In 2015 DWT started a citizen science project, ‘Species of the Month’ – asking the public to let us know when they’ve seen a certain species for each month of the year. Not only did the records start flooding in, but so did your anecdotes about wildlife experiences, with many of you sharing your delight from a regular or occasional wildlife visitor in local patch.

DWT’s Great Heath Community Conservation Officer, Katie Wilkinson, is running the project for DWT: “Recording and looking for rare and common wildlife both nationally and locally is really important because it helps conservationists monitor declines in wildlife populations. Something that’s in abundance in 2015 might not be in 2020,

Blackbird ‘Turdus merula’ Photo: Ken Dolbear ���

Alert Fox

Photo: Steve Davis

and these records could help identify trends to understand why this has happened, so we can all try to protect it in the future.”

Locally, DWT manages over 40 nature reserves across Dorset but it’s impossible to keep an eye on everything. “Wildlife doesn’t recognise boundaries,” said Katie. “It won’t just stay in nature reserves, it goes across the landscape and can come into people’s gardens and local green spaces, and that’s where everyone can help us. We are asking people to simply ‘look’ for wildlife – even if they’re in an urban space, towns and cities are thriving with interesting wildlife.”

So if you’re thinking: ‘that sounds great, but I can’t tell a pigeon from a wigeon’, there are plenty of places to get you started on your wildlife journey. Each month DWT publishes information about its chosen species to spot on the website (www.dorsetwildlifetrust. org.uk/wildlife) listing locations, identifying features, and pictures to help you. We’re starting off 2016 with the Fox for January, and Blackbird for February – start your new year being a bit wild.

By Sally Welbourne

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13

Tree and Hedge Care Specialists Local, established family run business ‹ ;YLL :\YNLY` HUK ;YLL -LSSPUN [V ): ‹ (SS +LIYPZ 9LTV]LK ‹ ;76 (WWSPJH[PVUZ ‹ 8\HSPÄLK >VYRMVYJL ‹ -\SS` 0UZ\YLK ‹ (WWYV]LK ‹ :OVY[ 5V[PJL >VYR ‹ /LKNL 9LK\J[PVU 4HPU[LUHUJL ‹ ;YLL :[\TW 9LTV]HS ‹ ;YLL :HML[` 0UZWLJ[PVUZ ‹ ;YLL 7SHU[PUN Email: broadoaktreecare@msn.com 6 Kings Avenue, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 1NB

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18/10/2013 11:31

Community News

14

Friendship Force Wessex Friendship Force is a non profit making organisation, originating in Atlanta, Georgia, 40 years ago , to promote friendship between people throughout the world.

It was started by Jimmy Carter, and now has nearly 400 clubs all around the world.

I am the President of the Wessex Club, which covers Most of Dorset, And a little of Hampshire, being based in Bournemouth and Poole.

We visit one or two clubs annually, ranging from British, European or Worldwide, travelling as a group of 10 or so, staying with families in the host clubs for a maximum of a week at a time. The host club organises a programme for that week, including welcome and farewell meals, and visits to local attractions.

We also host in our homes and provide a good range of activities for the incoming group, tailored to their ages and interests.

We make so many life long friends, and have lots of fun, and learn so much.

We in our club over the years have visited USA, Australia, S. America , Russia, Germany and so many more countries., and have hosted a diverse range of nationalities.

The costs are not great: Membership is £15-£25 annually, single or a couple.

If you are interested please come and chat to us.... Penny Slade 01202 763984.

Email: pennyslade5@gmail.com

Is Travel your Passion?

Do you enjoy meeting people?

Would you like to learn about a different culture from the “inside”?

If you answer yes to any of these questions then

Friendship Force Wessex is for you Curious about the world?

Friendship Force journeys begin with the desire to know more, and what better place to begin, than inside a home.

Living under one roof for a few days, sharing meals and exchanging ideas, people become friends. Cultural differences can bring us together.

Let the journey begin! Join an exchange that originates in your area, or selected from wide range of opportunities on the website... www.thefriendshipforce.org or www.friendshipforcewessex.wordpress.com In previous years we have hosted and visited countries throughout the world. We are a small club and part of an international movement with over 350 clubs worldwide spanning more than 60 countries.

If you would like more information and/or to meet us.

Local contact: Penny : email: pennyslade5@gmail.com.

Non Profit Making

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16

It’s All Childs Play

I T’S ALL CHILDS P LAY Stick Tricks

Inspiration comes in mysterious ways as I discovered whilst out walking the dog. I was mulling over fun things for children and families to do in February, when my Collie cross paused for the umpteenth time, to sniff something interesting, a stick no less! This got me thinking about all the amazing things that you can do with twigs and sticks, a great focus for a damp or cold February day!

Collecting sticks is a serious business. Whether you fall into the camp of finding the stick first and letting this inspire what you make or set your hopes on making something, be it a paint brush or a bow, and then search for the ideal stick, is a matter of mood or taste. What’s clear is that a stick is not just a stick but depending upon its shape, girth, flexibility and smoothness, can be crafted into a quirky pencil complete with knots, a dead straight arrow or springy curved bow.

The Stick Book by Schofield and Danks does exactly what it says on the tin, offering ‘loads of things to make or do with a stick’ Packed full of fun ideas for bringing sticks to life it is a great starting point for a wealth of projects from stick and mud people to den building, nest making to kites. It may even get you thinking about a favourite childhood game with sticks, surely pooh sticks would have to feature somewhere?!

With so many childhood toys one dimensional and little more than passive entertainment, a stick is fundamentally different as in the hands of different children, different environments and different times and moods it can become the perfect accompaniment to exploring a puddle, a magic wand, wizards staff, shadow clock or camping stove. If this has rekindled your fire and you can’t wait to get stuck in, here are some great ideas to try this month.

Artistic Sticks Sticks lend themselves to creating a wealth of artistic materials from paintbrushes complete with feather or moss tips, to paint palettes, ink pens to charcoal.

What’s more paper and paint aren’t essential with the floor as your canvas and natural colouring from berries or mud.

Adventure Sticks Sticks and survival are a marriage in heaven. Pick a long straight green hazel or willow stem for a strong and supple bow and whittle the end of shorter pieces

for arrows. Find a Y-shaped twig for the perfect catapult or a long snarled and wizened stick for a staff. Make spears and swords complete with carving for make believe play or a tripod for alfresco cooking.

Creative Sticks Pliable sticks are great for weaving into nests, sculptures or crowns while dried out elder wood is perfect for cutting into beadlike pieces to be hollowed out with a braddle or skewer before threading on string. A mix of mud and sticks are great for making animal sculptures or creating spooky tree trunk faces.

Combine with acorns and other seedpods to create mini animals.

Story Sticks Use four sticks to create a frame on the floor and add some natural treasures to weave into a story or play a storyboard guessing game. Go on a woodland walk armed with a stick and some elastic bands for collecting fallen items, such as feathers and leaves to act as a memory prompt. Or make spellings or word games fun by picking a special stick to point with!

Sticks are great but why stop there when there’s all of nature’s rich store cupboard to raid? Silver birch tree bark makes a wonderfully unusual cover for a notebook and instead of deadheading roses and other flowers in winter, cut them long enough to use as natural paintbrushes instead! What better way of prompting a trip to the beach than shell foraging to make pretty candles with at home? Or if a woodland trip is planned, collect acorn shells for some super cute floating candles! Other favourites include fairy houses, leaf inspired art and a host of stone decorating projects, from owls to dominos and game counters!

For more fabulous ideas like these, check out http:// bzfd.it/1WLozk0 a fantastic site packed with ideas for transforming natures finds into special gifts, the perfect incentive for getting out and about on cold February days.

Sue Gascoyne

For fun sensory play activities, Sue’s latest research, resources and training go to www.playtoz.co.uk.

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17

Confused about your investments? Worried about your pension?

Has your bank or building society left you without advice?

• We work with financially focused families and business owners. We help them to clarify and achieve their financial goals and they in turn, trust us to be with them during their own journey through life.

• We are known for taking the complexity and jargon out of the financial planning process and specialise in investments, pensions and estate planning.

• Our major clients receive monthly reporting for fund switching to maximise performance and reduce volatility in their portfolios.

Bournemouth Investments Ltd Certified Financial Planners If you would like to meet with us:

Contact Steve Chislett on 01202 891852 www.bournemouthinvestments.com Bournemouth Investments Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (584293).

Registered address: 7 Laburnum Close, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9TX

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18

Money Savnig Tips

Martin

LEWIS Winter Dust off your long johns, grab a cup of Bovril and snuggle up with my checklist to keep your costs down and the heat up.

1. Save £250+ on energy bills.

Winter is of course the highest-use energy period. So the key is to ensure you’re on the cheapest possible deal – that may be changing tariff with your existing provider, it may be switching.

The move across takes 17 days, so do it now to ensure you’re on the right deal before the cold snaps.

Those who worry about this, don’t – it’s the same pipes, gas, meter and safety, and you don’t lose supply. The only difference is price and customer service. But savings can be huge.

About 70% are on their provider’s standard tariff – across the big six this is an average of £1,095/year based on typical usage. Yet the cheapest open market’s deal is around £830 a year – that’s £260 a year saved, much of that in the winter months.

However, as your exact cheapest depends on what you use and where you live – to find out, always do a comparison. Just make sure you select ‘all tariffs’ on a comparison site. You can use my www.CheapEnergyClub.com which also gives switchers up to £30 cashback and then monitors you tariff after to check no one beats it, or any Ofgem.gov.uk approved comparison site.

2. Switch energy now and you could get £100s back.

If you pay by direct debit, it’s likely you’re in credit after the lowuse summer. Most providers give it back automatically, but if they don’t, call and ask. If you’ve switched in the past five years, your old supplier may still owe you too.

Asking for it back is simple and here’s a success to encourage you: “The balance owed to me from 17 months ago (which they never got back to me about) was £1,364.22. A brilliant result but I do feel an idiot for not knowing how much I’d overpaid, so I urge everyone to do the same as me and check.” – Col.escargot.

3. Are you entitled to any extra winter help?

Winter is a tough time for many as the cold sets in. But there are funds which may help… a. Winter fuel payments. If you were born on or before 5 January 1953 (and met other qualifying criteria throughout the week commencing 21 September 2015), you’re eligible for the up to £300 winter fuel payment. If you get certain benefits, eg, state pension, pension credit or jobseeker’s allowance, you’ll usually get it automatically – otherwise you may have to claim it. You do that by calling 03459 15 15 15. b. Cold weather payments. Anyone on certain benefits, eg, specific income support, jobseeker’s allowance, pension credit, gets £25 for every seven days where there are sub-

zero temperatures. It’s paid automatically from 1 November 2015. c. Choosing between heating and eating? If you’re seriously behind, or in general financial hardship, you may be eligible for special tariffs/help. Try the HomeHeatHelpline.org.uk on 0800 33 66 99.

4. Do you know where your water cock is?

Everyone should know where their main water off-switch is, otherwise known as a stopcock. Frozen pipe bursts create an average of £4k of damage, worse if you can’t find the off switch as your home floods. So if you don’t know, spend five minutes now finding out – typically it’s under the kitchen sink, in the boiler cupboard, or outside.

5. Full service car breakdown cover £41, basic for £16 – and if you’re renewing, haggle.

Problems are more likely in winter and the consequences are more severe. For breakdown, home start and onward travel cover, AutoAidBreakdown.co.uk charges £41/year, though if it sends a truck and driver you pay, then reclaim.

Or if you’ve got cover and are at renewal, haggle. In a recent poll I conducted, 84% of AA and 78% of RAC customers who tried got lower rates, like Graham did: “Thanks for the haggling advice.

Just spent five minutes on the phone to the RAC and got my renewal slashed from £252 to £151. Just over £100 for about five minutes’ work – that’ll do nicely!” Full help to do this in www.mse.me/breakdown For basic policies, buy through a cashback site like Topcashback. co.uk or Quidco.com and you can reduce the cost, eg, RAC basic is £27.99 a year and you get around £12 cashback, AA is a little more.

6. Free loft/cavity wall insulation, open to all.

Energy firms face sanctions if they don’t meet Eco quotas, so some, eg, British Gas.co.uk, EDFEnergy.com and Npower.com give free insulation to anyone in England, Scotland or Wales with a suitable home (you don’t have to be their customer or on a low income). If you paid for this commercially, it could cost around £700.

The savings can be huge. The Energy Saving Trust estimates you’ll see a reduction in bills of £300 a year compared with a typical uninsulated home. On average it takes 3-4 weeks to book a survey and a further two weeks for the insulation to be fitted (though it can take longer).

@MoneySavingExpert

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19

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20

CAMERAS Daisy’s Dance Shop WANTED 25-27 Whittle Road Ferndown

By Private Collector ANY Age, Format, Quantity or Quality ALL WANTED - Collections Of ANY Size - Lenses Of All Types - Clockwork Cine ALSO Wanted 8mm, 16mm, 35mm - BEST PRICES PAID - WILL COLLECT - ANY DISTANCE CONSIDERED Please Call Keith On

01202 862886

Ferndown Ind Est BH21 7RP

Affordable Dancewear at Open:

9am-5pm Mon-Sat

Tel: 01202 897937 www.dancing-daisy.co.uk

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21

Small, Local, Family Business Offering Quality Handmade Fitted Furniture

| Bedrooms | Studies | Lounge | Furniture | Kitchens |

T: 01202 821005

25 Old Barn Farm Road, Woolsbridge Industrial Estate, Three Legged Cross, Dorset, BH21 6SP

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Traditional & Contemporary Solutions

Showroom: Mon-Fri: 9am - 4:30pm Sat: 9:30am - 2pm

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All aspects of blinds supplied and ďŹ tted Specialists in Plantation Shutters, Awnings & Shaped

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Conservatories

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Puzzle Corner

22

Pop the kettle on...

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Crossword

Across 9 Strange or rare objects (7) 10 Promoting nasal discharge (7) 11 Drop (7) 12 Squeezed tightly between the fingers (7) 13 Gullet (9) 15 Piloted a vehicle (5) 16 Capuchin monkey (7) 19 Rode on a sleigh (7) 20 Pertaining to sound (5) 21 Backpacks (9) 25 The omission of a vowel (7) 26 A city in Ontario Canada (7) 28 A country in western Africa (7) 29 Brain-teasers (7) Down 1 Interfere (6) 2 A tuna-like fish (6) 3 Cashbox (4) 4 Buxom (6) 5 Hates (8)

6 Criminals (10) 7 Retain (8) 8 A transit bus travelling empty (8) 14 Commandeering's of vehicles (10) 16 Apprehensiveness (8)

17 Retirement benefits (8) 18 Mean spirited (8) 22 Clothing (6) 23 Waterways (6) 24 Wife or husband (6) 27 Disposes (4)

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23

Castle Dene Throop Road, Bournemouth BH8 0DB

Thinking of moving into a care home? We’re here to help Conveniently located with the countryside nearby, Castle Dene provides quality residential and dementia care in a home-from-home atmosphere.

Whether you’re looking for a short respite stay or a new home, we offer a warm welcome, compassionate care, comfort and peace of mind.

To request a brochure, arrange a visit or find out more, please contact Janice Turner, the Castle Dene manager on

01202 397929

castledene@care-south.co.uk

www.care-south.co.uk Care South is a leading provider of residential and home care across the south of England.

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24

Plant of the month Tomato

Growing tomatoes from seed is super easy and you can get started in late February to ensure a lovely summer crop to look forward to. Simply fill a small pot with compost and scatter seeds thinly over the top then cover with another thin layer and water. Pop the pot on the windowsill to help the seeds to germinate and keep an eye on them. This is a great project to do with kids as you’ll see seedlings within a couple of weeks and within a couple of months they’ll be big enough to move into separate pots. You can move them using a dibber and carefully lower them into their own, individual small pot. Once you see the yellow flowers appear you’re ready to put them into grow bags outside with canes.

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25

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Adventures of Nellie

26

The Adventures of Nellie The Dorset Directories Camper Van Well I can safely say that Nellie is a girl of many talents and several personalities (isn’t that true of all of us girls?) She has been a café, a place of escape, a limousine, a bedroom, a kitchen, a reading room, a changing room, a bus for the boys, an office, a bargain hunter and even Santa’s sleigh at Christmas!

She has certainly been in her element these last couple of months and kept us very busy!

So much so that we had a fright a few weeks ago when she found herself in snow near East Grinstead! After a day of being parked in the freezing cold she refused to move, or at least her engine did start but she screamed out in pain and gusts of smoke flew from her nostrils. (It is one way we women can make a point...) I wasn’t there and when Stephen called me to say he was awaiting the RAC man, I was worried.

Nellie certainly isn’t as young as she used to be, has done a lot of running around, and her arthritis can get her down. Would she pull through? Would she get back on that motorway? Well, amazingly she did. The belt around her

Nellie & friends on the ghost walk in Poole

A spooky start outside Scaplen’s Court power steering had slipped and once back in place she stopped yelling and the smoke diminished.

Now can you believe it? As a result of this incident Nellie now has a friend, and one she is rather fond of. Stephen has bought himself a handsome car of steel, full of gusto and muscle (Nellie will have to watch herself). It is a Mazda RX8, silver and definitely has charm.

Mighty Rex we have named him! The excuse for buying the car was to help Nellie. Ummmm... After all she is getting on and since we were thinking all those awful thoughts of which home would we put her in, how would we tell her etc etc, it seemed a good solution all round.

Nellie has now had a rest for a week in the garden but will still be taking us for many a trip here in the South. Like a lot of us older ladies, there is life in her yet.

(Especially now she has Mighty Rex to share the garden with...)

Our highlight recently was an expedition to Poole - “Granny Cousins Ghost Walk of Old Town Poole”! Why Nellie decided to take us to Poole on a cold winter’s evening is questionable but

To advertise in The Bournemouth Directory, please call: 01202 894397

27 ladies do sometimes have the oddest of ideas at times.... as most men will tell you. Michele O’Brien who took Nellie with twenty adults and children for this haunting walk is delightful! She combines her experience in theatre, dance, storytelling, pre-school work and choreography to guide you on a fascinating, if at times scary look at our old fishing port. Nellie was indeed scared, and jumped a few times when Granny Cousins screamed out as if possessed by a bygone figure.

Poole has a lot of history and it was intriguing to hear all the different stories.

The walk started at Scaplen’s Court which has the smallest doors in town!

Boy have we grown since those times.

There is no way Nellie would get in.

Previously known as The George Inn during the Civil War it possibly housed Parliamentary troops so I bet the walls could tell a story or two! Certainly the story of Agnes Beard, the maid who was murdered there, sent a chill down Nellie’s chassis. A little further on near The King Charles Pub there is a tiny gaol, which was arresting... The pub itself has a story of a young girl who fell in love with a sailor boy. The night he was to return there was a huge storm and many ships capsized leaving their poor crew to battle against the cold, dark waters.

Nellie with Mighty Rex in the gardem

Michele O’Brien as Granny Cousins The lover did not return and sure he was dead, the young maiden hung herself from the rafters of the pub.... (did you really want to hear this?) No time later the handsome young sailor returned, to find his true love was gone. It is said that she can still be seen from time to time in the roof room of The King Charles. I am sure for those who want to believe, this could be true.

For Nellie she decided it was a very sad story and wondered if she would be that overwhelmed if Mighty Rex now left her… Anyway, back to the evening which really was rather good. The sky was clear, there was little wind and despite heavy rain earlier in the day, there was not a drop in sight. It was perfect for a spine chilling evening. If you want to contact Michele and learn lots about Poole and its spellbinding history I am sure she would love to hear from you. You can contact Michele on 07977 969080 or look at her website which is www.micheleobrien.co.uk. Do mention Nellie if you talk to her!

Nellie hopes you have started 2016 with lots of excitement as she has done. She is looking forward to telling you more about her exploits in the next issue of The Bournemouth Directory.

Where will she take us next…?

By Debbie Corney

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Community News

28

Celebrating the best of British wildlife photography Seahorses off Studland and a butterfly near Lulworth feature in the British Wildlife Photography Awards (BWPA) exhibition at Moors Valley Country Park near Ringwood until 28 February.

With 16 categories, including a special film category (Wildlife in HD), the Awards showcase the very best of nature photography and raise awareness about biodiversity, British species and their habitats.

Filmed in Dorset, the video, ‘The Last Seahorse in Studland?’ carried off top prize in the special Wildlife in HD category. Shot by Andy Jackson and written and narrated by Jackie Daly, their idea to film the life cycle of seahorses off the Dorset coast turned into a plea to help the species after only one seahorse was sighted despite expert assistance.

The Dorset coast also features in the competition’s Habitat category with Richard Bromley Gardner’s stunning image of a Large White butterfly in flight over cliffs looking out to St Oswalds Bay near Lulworth.

Established in 2009, the highly-acclaimed BWPA exhibition attracts thousands of entries celebrating the beauty and diversity of British wildlife. This year’s overall winner offers a unique insight into the habitat and behaviour of gannets. Taken by Barrie Williams, his image, ‘On the Edge’ features gannets on a cliff in the Shetland Isles and won the Habitat category as well as taking the overall winner’s title.

Moors Valley is one of a handful of locations to host the BWPA national touring exhibition.

Countryside Ranger, Katie Davies said, “The British Wildlife Photography Awards recognise the talents of photographers across the UK whilst also celebrating the immense beauty and vitality of our indigenous wildlife. These stunning images really are the best of the best and Moors Valley is privileged to be the only venue chosen to host this important national exhibition on the south coast.”

Poul Christensen, Chair of Natural England, said: “The amazing images that have been captured

for the British Wildlife Photography Awards are a great showcase of the wildlife wonders that exist in this country. I’d like to congratulate all of the entrants for the exceptionally high quality of their images - extraordinary pictures of our rarest animals sit alongside uniquely beautiful shots of the wildlife on our doorstep.”

The British Wildlife Photography Awards exhibition opens daily in the Visitor Centre at Moors Valley Country Park. It is free to view.

Parking charges apply. For more information go to www.moors-valley.co.uk or call the Rangers on 01425 470721.

The 2016 British Wildlife Photography Awards opens for entries on 1 February. Details can be found at www.bwpawards.org.

Winner of the Wildlife in HD category - The Last Seahorse in Studland? (Still image from video)

Highly Commended in the Habitat Category Richard Bromley Gardner’s ‘Coastal Butterfly’

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29

Bournemouth & Beyond Discovery Group Tuesday Evenings in March at 7.30pm From Brownsea Island to Portland with the River Stour in between.

Bournemouth & Beyond Discovery Group invites you to the main hall of St Andrews United Reformed Church, St Stephen’s Road, Bournemouth, BH2 6JJ. Visit our web site for more details.

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30

Auto Biographies Motoring

All-New Jaguar XF

By Tim Barnes-Clay, www.carwriteups.co.uk The first words out of my mouth when I handed my all-new Jaguar XF demonstrator keys back at Pamplona Airport were “I’m going to miss that motor”. And there’s a reason for that: the fresh British saloon I had on test in Spain made my life far more relaxing than I had envisaged.

Now, let me make it clear; the two days I had with the XF involved traversing snaking roads high into the Pyrenees, hammering along fast stretches of motorway and negotiating narrow urban streets.

The part of northern Spain I was in involves rural transport, too – and, with that, the odd wandering herd of cows, goats and sheep.

My point is that, whether driving at 70mph or sat still waiting for a shamble of sheep to move, the XF looks after you. The soft leather seats, the hushed cabin, the excellent brakes and, even the sound system, make you feel as though a palace has been given four wheels.

When there is a chance to bury your right foot into the deep carpet, the creamy smooth powertrain of the rear wheel drive Jaguar XF 380PS S, on test here, pulls the scenery by the side of your head briskly. It is done in such an uncomplicated way that the speedo needle can nudge three figures all too easily.

Pure performance aside, handling is stunningly good. Indeed, the 2016 XF offers the fun already available from the Jaguar XJ, mainly due to its precise steering, lack of body roll and excellent traction.

This was demonstrated perfectly when we stopped off for a bit of cheeky track driving at the Circuito de Navarra. This modern motorsport race track, near Los Arcos, is a 3.933 km permanent road course that hosts the Superleague Formula series and the FIA GT1 World Championship. Under expert instruction I managed to get the XF to behave like the beast it can be. The car will hold on to the surface like Velcro, only stepping out when pushed to levels you’d never attempt on a public highway. Jaguar’s PR team did a good job by really showing us that the new XF isn’t just a mile muncher –

it’s a machine offering pure dynamism. In other words, it truly is a driver’s car.

The specification levels of the new XF are lavish. The cabin is a seamless blend of contemporary luxury materials and finishes, traditional Jaguar craftsmanship and state-of-the art tech, with features such as a reconfigurable 12.3-inch TFT instrument cluster, laser head-up display and an InControl Touch Pro premium infotainment system.

What’s more, stereo camera technology enables autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning and lane-keep assist systems. Adaptive Cruise Control with Queue Assist takes the stress out of motorway driving in stop-go traffic by tracking the vehicle in front, at a safe distance.

With its plethora of talents and refreshed, more modern exterior, the XF is soon etched on your mind. From a distance, there are slight hints of Audi at the rear, but the car doesn’t look as much like the other premium executive saloons you see double-parked outside Michelin-starred restaurants in Chelsea or in City of London corporate car parks In summary, this new XF is loaded with a host of awesome tech, making the driving experience as luxurious and as exciting as possible.

The Jaguar’s cabin is sophisticated and sturdily built and the car is rapid, whichever model you opt for. Indeed, the Jaguar XF 380PS S model, driven for this review, is as fast as you are ever likely to need.

Pros ‘n’ Cons • Power √ • Refinement √ • Handling √ • Equiment √ • Expensive to buy new X

Fast Facts • Max speed: 155mph • 0-62 mph: 5.3 secs • Combined mpg: 34.0 • Engine: 2995cc V6 24v supercharged petrol • CO2: 198 g/km • Price: £49,950

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31

TREE, HEDGE & WOODLAND SPECIALISTS Tree, Woodland All aspects ofHedge Tree&& Hedgespecialists work undertaken

By Experienced & Qualified tree surgeons For a Free Consultation & Quotation

Contact: Ross Vermaak Tel: Poole 890363 Mobile: 07868 693389

‘Your local tree management company’

Seasoned Logs Split & Delivered to Requirement

For more information visit: www.treesurgeonspoole.com

      

Boilers, Radiators & Central Heating Bathroom Design & Installation Power Flushing Service & Maintenance Leaking Taps, Etc. Solar Hot Water Friendly, Expert Advice 301918

24HR EMERGENCY CALLOUT

T: 01425 501435 M: 07779 246417 20 Pinewood Road, St. Ives, Ringwood, Dorset, BH24 2PA

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Food & Drink

32

Tastes so good...

CHEESEY BAKE

At this time of year, the air is still quite chilly and this meal is perfect if you want something that will not only warm you up but also is quick and easy to make. A way you can add to this dish is by putting on tomato clusters on top of the mixture before placing it in the oven.

Ingredients for 4 servings 6 large eggs 200g mature cheddar 200g bread 225ml bag baby leaf spinach 1tbsp English mustard powder 425ml milk

Equipment: Shallow 2-litre dish, colander, food processor Oven: Gas Mark 5, 190C Method: Begin by buttering the dish and preheating the oven.

For the spinach, you can either cook it in the microwave as per packet instructions or empty the spinach contents into a colander over the sink. After boiling the kettle, pour the boiling water over the spinach and leave to wilt. Then begin to make your cheese base by breaking up the eggs into a food processor bowl. Proceed to add the milk, the mustard and a tsp of salt.

Break up all of the bread (including the crust) and whizz it all together until the mixture is smooth. Pour the mixture into a large bowl and grate 3 quarters of the cheese in. Once you have done this, to get rid of all the water, squeeze the spinach.

Then put the spinach within the cheese mixture and stir in before pouring the finished mixture into the dish. Once this is done, grate over the rest of the cheese on top. Bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes until risen and golden. Allow to cool before serving.

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33

Prize Word Search

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

Prize Wordsearch

The Bournemouth Directory

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

This month, the prize is a meal for two at The Overcliff Pub, so please complete this page by 26th February 2016 and send to: February Prize Wordsearch Name: ______________________ The Bournemouth Directory, Address: ______________________ 1 Moorlands Rise, ______________________ West Moors, ______________________ Ferndown, BH22 0JR Telephone: ______________________

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Gardening Tips

34

On Your Plot Now is the time to go undercover It’s still pretty chilly during February but planting seedlings under glass (or plastic) can give you a great start for the season ahead. A bit of time and money invested now in a polytunnel or greenhouse will give you benefits for years to come.

Can’t wait for Spring to come? There are plenty of vegetables that can be started off indoors now.

Jobs for February:-

• Erect a cold frame, polytunnel or greenhouse • Plant out onion sets • Sow tomatoes indoors • Chit seed potatoes • Sow early beetroot and summer cabbages • Plant soft fruit bushes The days are getting a little longer, green shoots are starting to appear and we’re all just itching to get out in the garden now. Just one problem - it’s still likely to be blooming cold!

Extremes in weather are typical for this month so even if we do have a warmer spell I wouldn’t be in too much of a hurry to start sowing seeds outdoors. It’s at this time of year that having some undercover growing space is a real boon not least because it’s so much more of a pleasure working in a protected environment, basking in the glory of those few rays of sun, than it is feeling a gale force wind that seems as it if’s come straight from the arctic! If you don’t have a greenhouse, polytunnel or cold frame then why not think about investing in one now? Get it built in February and you can get a head start on many plants for the season to come.

Which is best? Consider the space available - if space is limited then a cold frame, may be a good option. Green houses can offer lots of benefits but are generally not a great idea if your garden is also the kids play area and they can be hugely expensive. On the plus side, they are not easy to get rid of so if you’re prepared for a bit of work

you may be able to pick up a second-hand one very cheaply providing you are happy to dismantle and move it yourself (try free cycle). We opted for a polytunnel, which was very reasonable in price and gave us several weekends of entertainment building it. Follow the instructions carefully, don’t rush it and you’ll need at least 2 of you when it comes to putting the plastic on.

With both greenhouses and polytunnels you need to remember that they can become very hot in the summer and ensure that adequate ventilation is available.

So, now that you have this great new space what can you plant in it? Early tomatoes can be started off in pots and if you plant some summer cabbages now you can get them established and benefit from a crop by late spring or early summer.

Cucumbers, beetroot, leeks and lettuces can also be sown indoors and if you want to try something a little more exotic why not plant some peppers, aubergines and even a melon?

This is also a good month to think about soft fruit.

Most fruit bushes, trees and canes need time to get established before you start to get a good yield and it is easy to overlook them in favour of crops that give a quicker return.

If you don’t have any fruit growing on your plot how about adding just one type of fruit each year? You could plant raspberry canes this month, or incorporate a gooseberry or blackcurrant bush into your border. If you have pot grown strawberries that have spent the winter indoors then place them outside as they will only flower after exposure to cold weather. Plants that have over wintered outside can be brought in now.

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35

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36

Consumer Tips

James

WALKER 1XLVDQFH &DOOV This week I received an email from a chap who has had to stop answering his home phone. He is receiving endless cold calls and has simply had enough of trying to get rid of the pesky salespeople trying to sell their services ranging from PPI claims to the installation of solar panels and how much they can save.

It is very frustrating when you cannot answer you own phone without the fear of being bombarded about unwanted goods and services!

Unwanted Phone calls What would you do if you were faced with the same situation?

It is simply not acceptable that you have to avoid answering your own phone. The first thing you should do is contact the Telephone Preference Service (TPS), run by the Direct Marketing Association. The service is free and allows you to opt out of receiving marketing communications and includes preventing marketing calls from business development firms, charities, voluntary organisations and political parties. You can register your home and mobile numbers with the scheme.

According to Ofcom research, your unwanted phone calls will reduce by one third.

Once you are registered, organisations are not allowed to call you unless you have given prior consent. 45% of those registered on the list receive no more cold calls.

Prior Consent When you sign up with new websites there are often two tick boxes, one for their terms and conditions and the other to receive communications from select partners. Do not tick this box, ever!

If you do, you are consenting that data can be sold legitimately to third-party companies and this is considered prior consent.

Even though you may have opted out via the Telephone Preference Service you will still receive communications from companies that have your data via this process. This loophole is extremely unfair and the Government is now considering if this law should be changed. Personally, I find it unbelievable that this law still exists and it certainly ought to be amended!

Silent phone calls If you are receiving silent calls this is usually from an automated system in a Contact Centre. The system automatically dials phone numbers and if you answer, you are then connected to a member of staff in the Contact Centre. However, if no one in the Contact Centre is available then you receive the silent call.

If the company is using this system, they must publish their phone number. Once you get off of the call, ring 1471 to find out the number or call your phone provider and request the caller’s phone number and then make a complaint.

Automated sales calls These are known as lead generation calls, looking to capture your details or leads to sell onto a firm.

Companies making these calls must have your permission to make these calls to you. If you have not given permission then you should contact the Information Commissioners Office with as much information as possible. Call them on 0303 123 1113.

Making a complaint If you are still receiving unwanted phone calls, you should make a complaint to the Telephone Preference Service.

• When you receive the phone call ask the person what company they work for and their telephone number. Be sure to make a note of the number. Top tip: sometimes you can also obtain the phone number after finishing the call but prior to the next call by dialling 1471 on your home phone.

• Contact the Telephone Preference Service and make an official complaint and it will be investigated.

Unwanted text messages The Telephone Preference Service cannot help with unwanted text messages. Forward unwanted texts to 7726 and these will register as unwanted text messages with your mobile provider.

Top tips for the phone • If you receive a phone call requesting any financial details or PIN numbers stating that they are checking your details, we strongly recommend that you refuse to divulge any information.

• Talk to your home or mobile phone provider about what options they have to deal with nuisance calls in order to resolve these issues. On the iPhone you can choose to block a phone number. You can also obtain phone call identification but you will need to pay an additional charge for this service. You will be able to see the incoming call number. Get your phone number listed as ex directory by contacting your phone provider. Your details will not be published anywhere.

Harassing phone calls If you are receiving rude or harassing phone calls then you should contact your phone provider for assistance and to investigate the issue. These calls are a criminal offence and will therefore be taken very seriously by your phone provider.

If you are extremely concerned, contact the Police on 101 and they can trace the phone call.

Consumer Champion – the man who helps you resolve your . consumer complaints! www.resolver.co.uk/

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Index of advertisers

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

Beds The Bed Store........................... 5

Denture Services Dorset Denture Clinic................ 7

Oven Cleaners Oven King................................. 3

Blinds, Curtains & Shutters Ashley Blinds............................. 3 Tuscany Blinds..........................21

Drainage Services All Drains Cleared..................... 9

Pet Services Wagging Tails........................... 9

Electricians Dorset Electrical & Fire Alarms.... 9

Plasterers Spillers Plastering..................... 3

Estate & Letting Agents Webb Homes............................13

Plumbing & Heating Bournemouth Plumbing Solutions....31 First Choice Plumbing...............40 J C Gas......................................25 P L H Heating............................19 UltraHeat Plumbing.................. 1

Block Paving & Driveways K & S Paving..............................15 Cameras Rocky Rock Cameras.................20 Carpets & Flooring Carpet Barn.............................. 5

Financial Services Bournemouth Investments.......17 Even Keel Financial................... 7

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Arrow Cleaning Services...........15 Cleaning Doctor........................25

Fitted Furniture Select Interiors..........................21

Chimney Sweeps Jim Chim-in-ey..........................17

Garage Services Coastal Car Sales & Service......15 Hughes Workshop.................... 2

Cleaning - Residential Time for You.............................. 7 Community News Adventures of Nellie.................26 Bournemouth & Beyond Discovery Group.....................29 Bowie Tribute Night to raise funds for local hospice........... 8 Consumer Tips: Nuisance Calls...36 Dorset Family History Society.... 6 Dorset Wildlife Trust.................12 Friendship Force Wessex...........14 It’s All Childs Play: Stick Tricks....16 Martin Lewis: Bank Winter........18 On your plot: Now is the time to go undercover............34 Tastes so good: Cheesey Bake....32 Dancewear Dancing Daisy...........................20

Health & Fitness Slimming World........................29 Hearing Aid Services Clarity Hearing Solutions..........15 Kellear Hearing......................... 9 Hot Tub Hire Party Tub Hire...........................25 Hotels, Bars & Restaurants Banana Wharf..........................39 The Overcliff Pub......................20 Loft Conversions Loft Services..............................29 Model Shops Platform Models....................... 7

Puzzles & Competitions Crossword.................................22 Kids Page..................................10 Prize Wordsearch......................33 Sudoku......................................22 Property Maintenance Mango Property Maintenance....37 Residential Care Homes Care South - Castle Dene..........23 Roofing Insulation Jetseal.......................................19 Tree Surgeons Arborgrind................................19 Broadoak Tree Care..................13 RHV...........................................31 Timbers Tree Care.....................24 Used Cars Coastal Car Sales & Service......23 Windows, Doors & Conservatories Allglaze.....................................31 Cloudy2Clear Windows.............11 Select PVCU..............................35

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