The Christchurch The independent directory of local businesses serving the residents of Christchurch, Fairmile, Iford, Purewell, Somerford, Mudeford, Friars Cliff & Burton
Directory
Delivered FREE to 12,000 homes & businesses in the BH23 area
April 2017
In this issue: Win a pair of tickets to see The Wizard of Oz at the Regent Centre Dorset students JET propelled
Mudeford Quay Photo courtesy SkyPicsUK.com
Celebrity interview: Jasper Carrott Adventures of Nellie
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WOULD YOU LIKE TO USE ALL THE AVAILABLE SPACE IN YOUR HOME?
BESPOKE FITTED FURNITURE AT AFFORDABLE PRICES Custom Creations is a family run business with over 40 years experience
CALL US NOW ON
01202 823231
TO ARRANGE YOUR FREE, NO OBLIGATION DESIGN CONSULTATION
www.customcreations.furniture
Unit 1, Enterprise Park, Blackmoor Road, Ebblake Industrial Estate, Verwood, BH31 6YS
A family run, quality business We are a local, family owned and run business, with over 30 years experience. From your initial enquiry to completed installation you can rely on our friendly, professional service and quality products.
Visit us or call 01202 825225 for your free, no obligation quotation
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PVC or aluminium windows Composite doors Bi-folding doors Traditional conservatories Contemporary 'skyroom' Verandas Roofline – fascias, soffits & guttering Cladding – smooth or textured 10 year guarantee on all workmanship and materials
12 Victory Close, Woolsbridge Industrial Estate, Three Legged Cross BH21 6SX
www.dorsetwindows.co.uk
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Do you need a hand to relax? Recently qualiďŹ ed male masseur with the latest massage techniques invites ladies & gentlemen to relax and be pampered in a cosy perfumed studio. Can also visit care homes if needed. Fully insured. Call 07783 433792 for more details.
Your local handyman with over 25 years experience Handyman Services
Carpentry
Plumbing
Basic Electrical
For more information visit our website www.the-home-doctor.co.uk
01202 798 748 Please mention The Christchurch Directory when responding to adverts
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Welcome...
The Christchurch Directory Edition 124
Published by:
Debbie & Stephen Corney at Dorset Directories Ltd
Telephone:
01202 894397
Email:
info@thechristchurchdirectory.co.uk
Copy deadline for the May 2017 edition: 17th April 2017
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 Christchurch 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.
Dear Christchurch, Bargates, Fairmile, Iford, Burton, Mudeford, Somerford, Stanpit, Friars Cliff & Purewell! Spring is here! Haven’t the daffodils looked splendid this year? I am so looking forward to seeing even more colour in the garden this month. The birds were certainly in full song this morning when I took Hayden to school. There is nothing like our British birds. I love their sounds. Have you started clearing out the shed, recycling all those winter clothes you never wore, dusting areas of the house that have been all forgotten? It is interesting how spring has that effect on us. Time for change for the better. I rather like it. We are also lucky enough to have a couple of holidays planned this year, one in May half term and one in the summer. With three weddings as well, in April, August and September in the New Forest, Hull and Scotland, it is looking like a busy and exciting time ahead. Nellie, our wonderful travelling campervan, took us to her first football match last month. That was good! You can read all about it in this April issue. Following on from that she is keen to try new experiences, so if you would like her to come and visit, do let us know. I will see what she thinks‌ We continue to provide local information as well as good local businesses and trades people for you. We do hope they can help and would love to know if there are any trades you would also like to see, that we do not have. We have excellent reviews and with your help are very happy to help local companies expand. That is what we are here for. Congratulations to P Hammerton who won tickets to see The Fureys at the Regent Centre. This month... it could be you! Wishing you a wonderful Easter. Best Regards,
Debbie & Stephen Corney
Useful Numbers Local Police Southern Electricity Transco Gas Emergency Christchurch. Hospital
101 08457 708090 0800 111999 01202 486361
Train Enquires Christchurch Council Sembcorp Water Christchurch Library
08457 484950 01202 495000 01202 590059 01202 485938
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5 Established 9 years ago, Simple Accountancy has special strengths based on the previous business experience of its owner including investment banking, Company Law (as a barrister) and chartered certified accountancy. Therefore the practice offers a unique and invaluable combination of knowledge and previous experience and still maintains a very firm philosophy to work on a one to one basis with clients and yet manage to keep their prices very competitive. “I have used several accountants over the years. I found Simple Accountancy and Ivka 4 years ago – what a difference!” SN (Poole) “Simple Accountancy is very special. What a relief to find an accountant who is there to help my businesses in so many ways. Ivka is a breath of fresh air to anyone in business.” SC (Bournemouth) “At last – an accountant who is there to help me and my business and not charge me through the nose!” AH (Southbourne)
AMAZING OFFERS AVAILABLE THROUGH APRIL – CALL NOW*
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Contact us now 01202 679012 sales@broadview.co.uk www.broadview.co.uk
Come visit our showroom at 57 Hatchpond Road, Nuffield Ind Est, Poole, BH17 0JZ
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Community News
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Dorset students JET propelled More than 2500 young people across Dorset have been inspired and motivated in the past year by sessions run by the Jon Egging Trust (JET). The charity was set up in memory of Red Arrows pilot Jon Egging (Red 4) who lost his life whilst completing a display at the Bournemouth Air Festival in 2011. JET realises his dream of helping young people overcome adversity, identify their strengths and work towards their ambitions. In Dorset JET is working with St Aldhelm’s Academy, Glenmoor and Winton Academy, Ferndown Upper and Ferndown Middle Schools to help underachieving students realise their full potential. Built on the core values of Inspiration, Teamwork and Leadership, the charity supports young people from the age of 10, empowering them to gain the skills that they need to stay in education, re-engage with learning and continue on a path to further training and employment, as one of its patrons, Professor Brian Cox, explains: “There are young people in Britain today who, for a multitude of reasons, have a difficult time and with that comes low self-esteem and low aspirations for the future. These are youngsters with immense untapped potential. That’s where the Jon Egging Trust comes
into its own – it gives them that vital sense of possibility and purpose; affirms their selfworth, and from there they grow in confidence and self-belief. Everyone deserves the chance to be the best they can be; it’s quite wonderful to see how these youngsters respond when given that chance.” JET provides two youth engagement initiatives: Blue Skies and Inspirational Outreach. Blue Skies is an intensive programme working with young people aged 13-16, which raises their confidence, self-esteem, and aspirations, helping them to make the most of themselves. It’s a model that works. Josh, 12 from St Mary’s C of E Middle School in Puddletown says he has learnt to socialise and communicate in different ways. Robert, 14 said that he has “learnt that I can do what I want to achieve in life” Inspirational Outreach provides sessions to children from the upper end of primary school, led by Inspirational Mentors who deliver assemblies, lessons and educational visits. During the past year, young people in Dorset have benefited from sessions at HMS Sultan, the Tank Museum and Bournemouth Aviation Museum. They have also been guided by inspirational mentors such as Des Day, Managing Director of Supply Shack and Captain Spike Jepson, General Manager of Cobham Aviation and an ex Red Arrows leader. JET operates in six regions across the UK and is on track to expand into nine regions by 2020, offering life-changing opportunities to 10,000 young people every year. If you would like to help a young person in Dorset be the best they can be by donating or volunteering, or if your company is interested in becoming a JET partner, please contact Kaye Jackson: kaye@joneggingtrust.org.uk
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Mr Peter Willy ] Mrs Janine Johnson ] .S "MJTUBJS #VOUJOH Mr Jonathan Gollings ] Mrs Joanna Dorsett
Only accredited phobia practice in Dorset Dental Implants Invisible Braces Somnowell Anti-snoring devices 3D CT Scanner Cosmetic and general dentistry Teeth Whitening Dental Hygienist services
We also offer the following Dental Plans Â˜ĂŒiĂ€iĂƒĂŒÂ‡vĂ€ii w˜>˜Vi >Ă›>ˆÂ?>LÂ?i Ă€ÂœĂ•Â˜` yÂœÂœĂ€ ĂœÂˆĂŒÂ… ÂˆĂƒ>LÂ?i` >VViĂƒĂƒ Modern facilities
Hoburne Dental Practice, 104 Saffron Drive, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 4TG.
Tel: 01425 277245 o r www.hoburne-dental.co.uk
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Community News
LOOKING FOR A NURSERY? Call 01202 490506 For more details or arrange a viewing www.burtondaynursery.co.uk
Lovely well established nursery on the outskirts of Christchurch. Lots of outdoor space and a dedicated baby unit with garden. For a free consulta�on please contact us: Tel :
Ltd
Tradi�onal & Contemporary Solu�ons Create the perfect space for outdoor living…
Tuscany are proud suppliers of Award Winning
Email :
01202 848 628
info@tuscanyblinds.com
Specialists in Planta�on Shu�ers, Awnings & Shaped Conservatories
www.tuscanyblinds.com
Weinor Awning Systems
Free Electric motor with every Awning
20% Off
Planta�on Shu�ers T’s & C’s Apply
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Hope for better rented housing in 2017 Nationwide expert Belvoir views prospects with optimism for year ahead. Two Dorset based offices of property specialists, Belvoir, will be part of a nationwide drive to integrate the private rented sector more positively into the government’s housing plans for 2017. Despite government changes and fresh challenges in the ‘buyto-let’ market, the future for rented property will continue to be one of the best bets for the country’s growing number of tenants as well as landlords, says the company. “We’re starting the new year with more optimism than we’ve had for some time,” says Jeremy Clarke, owner of the Belvoir office on Bargates in Christchurch. “Although the market is likely to be slowed down by the threat of stricter ‘buy-to-let’ rules - including tougher affordability checks for buy to let mortgages and the withdrawal of tax relief on mortgage interest – we are still reporting an increase in demand for houses to rent. Luke Marchbanks, who owns Belvoir Bournemouth on Castle Lane West, adds: “If you are a cash investor, or perhaps an ‘accidental landlord’ who has inherited a property with no mortgage repayments, you can expect a very healthy return on your investment – far better than you could achieve from mainstream savings products. “So, a priority in 2017 will be to carry on sourcing more local, good quality rental accommodation to satisfy both landlord and tenant client demand across the board.” Recent figures suggest an encouraging rise in the number of rental properties coming onto the UK market in nearly 60 per cent of UK towns and cities. And although rents are rising modestly they are, nevertheless, rising. In fact, Belvoir predicts a 15 per cent rise over the next three years. Some 86% of tenants, nationally – that’s around 6 million households - are renting because they cannot scrape together the deposit to buy a property. And a Labour-backed inquiry into the nation’s housing crisis revealed that almost two-thirds of UK tenants don’t expect to afford a mortgage in the next five years either. That includes all walks of life – from professionals with families to students and migrant workers. They are struggling to buy so, in the next 12 months, they will follow the European model and rent instead. Meanwhile, government housebuilding targets have let them down again. A House of Lords committee called for 300,000 new homes to be built in England each year - but in 2015-16 just under 190,000 new properties were added to the housing stock.
“That’s why a closer dialogue is needed with Westminster,” says Belvoir’s managing director, Dorian Gonsalves. “The private rented sector plugs a serious gap and provides essential good quality, affordable housing for a modern generation of tenants while opening up new opportunities for people who can invest in ‘buy-to-let’ properties.” In 2017 Belvoir will continue to work with decision makers and strive to help create new incentives for the increased supply of rented housing stock. This will benefit millions of private tenants in a rental sector that could become healthier than ever in the next 12 months. “But, more than ever, new property investors will need to have a very clear strategy, in terms of what they expect from rental returns and capital growth,” adds Jeremy. “Renting in 2017 is expected to be an increasingly real alternative to home ownership but landlords need to buy property at the right price and thoroughly research its marketability. “This is where local market knowledge becomes an allimportant key – and it’s where the expertise of a specialist agent like Belvoir can make a real difference in guiding investors through a maze of opportunities and potential pitfalls. “We anticipate more self-managing landlords will answer the new challenges and changes in legislation by turning towards professional agents with local and regional understanding, insight and experience, who they can trust to handle the increasing burden of new rules and red tape.” Dorian Gonsalves says: “It’s against this mixed background that our collective of over 300 offices throughout the entire country is hoping to make our influential voice heard more clearly at national government level this year because Belvoir is a major brand and a respected representative of this key sector in UK housing. “We are optimistic that we can improve prospects for tenants as well as landlords and I’m confident that the Belvoir network will continue to build on this during another positive year of successful growth.”
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Puzzle Corner
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Crossword
Across 8 Rubber wheel (4) 9 Keyboard instrument (5) 10 X X X X (4) 11 Tremblors (6) 12 Cornhusker state (8) 13 Winking (8) 15 Customs duty (6) 17 Proceeding in small stages (7) 19 Varnish (7) 22 Respite (6) 24 Step (8) 26 Marrow squash plant (8) 28 Enrol (6) 30 Leg joint (4) 31 Step (5) 32 Latin for "Will be" (4)
Down 1 Place (4) 2 Summoned (8) 3 Dwarf ornamental tree (6) 4 Punches of sweetened milk and eggs (7) 5 Cliquish (8)
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6 Pack up and leave (6) 7 A euphemism for "Hell" (4) 14 Big (5) 16 A cloak (5) 18 Ails (8) 20 Deceased (8)
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FULLPOWER INDUSTRIAL PRESSURE WASHING CLEANING
DRIVEWAYS • PATIOS
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21 Where administrative workers work (7) 23 Irritated (6) 25 Do to excess (6) 27 Vases (4) 29 The founder of a family (4)
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ADVERTORIAL
Cloudy2Clear Announce Trusted Trader Partnership Consumer champions Which? have now joined the thousands of customers who recognise that Cloudy2Clear Windows really are a business that you can TRUST. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames has received the coveted ‘Which Trusted Trader’ status after going through a rigorous accreditation process entirely focussed on customer service. Group Managing Director Marcus McGee believes that Which? have endorsed Cloudy2Clear’s long standing
company policy of delivering the highest standards possible at all times. ‘Our service is simple. If your double glazing has 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 25 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving people money, although that obviously helps. Whilst a number of tradespeople perhaps don’t focus on customer care as much as they should do, 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. Locally Cloudy2Clear service the &KULVWFKXUFK area
DQG Panager Justin Friel agrees that this 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 as both my customers and, obviously a body as nationally important as Which? now recognise.’ So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Justin a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!
Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An Average Quote Will Take No Longer Than 20 Mins!!!
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Wildlife News
Talking about Wildlife...
Is your garden ready? With winter gone, many wildlife denizens in our gardens are emerging anew, and whilst the weather is warmer and resources more plentiful, our wild friends still need our help. With many species’ natural habitats in decline, gardens are vital to wildlife, and creating a wildlife haven in your backyard is one of the easiest ways of helping the environment. Even minor efforts towards wildlife friendly gardening make a big difference, with variety and year-round support being key to success. Should you not wish to make major changes to your existing garden, a corner dedicated to wildlife will suffice. A water feature, from a small bowl to a pond (with sloping edges and night-time cover to prevent hedgehogs and small pets from drowning) is a basic, however, if you have cats in the house it is best to forego a birdbath. Food and shelter are vital for all species; nest boxes for birds, hedgerows, wall climbers and piles of dead wood and leaves make ideal homes yearround. Choose a range of native flowers, trees and shrubs that provide pollen and nectar over several months to ensure that bees and butterflies, our most important pollinators, are well provided for. Poppies are not only
Bumble-bee on flower Photo: Ken Dolbear ���
Wildlife friendly garden Photo: Briony Baxter
gorgeous but also an excellent source of pollen from May to October, rosemary offers culinary delights both in the garden and the kitchen, and foxglove, comfrey and clovers add colour and variety to the pollinators’ menu, to mention but a few. Saving rainwater for watering the garden and using natural pest control instead of chemicals instantly upgrades your environmentfriendly status. Recycling appropriate food scraps for composting makes for five-star accommodation for many insects, vital for a healthy garden. And if you do not have a garden, don’t be discouraged; a window box or a hanging basket on a balcony are also great ways of helping wildlife. If you’re already doing these things, why not enter the 2017 Wildlife Friendly Gardening competition. Visit www.dorsetwildlifetrust. org.uk/wildlife-gardening.html to enter the competition or get some new ideas. DWT is looking for more people to ‘Say YES to wildlife’ and support the conservation work of Dorset Wildlife Trust. Visit wtru.st/sayyesdor to find out more. By Niina Silvennoinen
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Call either Dennis, Stuart or Debbie on
01202 487587
for honest, professional advice on all your property needs whether selling or buying.
Free No Obligation Market Appraisals Competitive Commission Rates Local & National Advertising Extremely Experienced Team
MICHAEL ADAM ESTATE AGENTS
237 Fairmile Road Christchurch, BH23 2LQ
Tel: 01202 487587
www.michaeladam.co.uk Please mention The Christchurch Directory when responding to adverts
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CAMERAS & BINOCULARS WANTED
By Private Collector ANY Age, Format, Quantity or Quality - 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
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: 01202 280487 M: 07779 246417 20 Pinewood Road, St Ives, Ringwood, Dorset, BH24 2PA
In need of foot care? RITA HALLAM M.INST.CH.P HCPC REGISTERED OVER 39 YEARS EXPERIENCE HIGH STANDARDS AND FRIENDLY APPROACH TREATMENTS FOR ALL AGES • TOENAIL CUTTING • CORNS & CALLUS REMOVED • INGROWING TOE NAILS • ALL IN ONE TREATMENTS AVAILABLE (CHIROPODY + PEDICURE) • ALL TREATMENTS INCLUDE A FOOT MASSAGE • TOENAIL RECONSTRUCTION
BU FOOT
T: 01202 948075
TON CARE
M: 07774 434848
96 STONY LANE CHRISTCHURCH www.burtonfootcare.co.uk BH23 7LE burtonfootcare@outlook.com
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ASHLEY
TREE SURGEONS TREE SURGERY BS3998 TREE SURVEYS BS5837 ALL TYPES OF FENCING - SUPPLIED/ERECTED HARD LANDSCAPING STUMP GRINDING HEDGE CUTTING LOLER INSPECTIONS MINI DIGGER & DUMPER HIRE MUCH, MUCH MORE
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Or telephone Barry Evans on for a FREE quotation
We have over 20 years experience and all our work is carried out by fully insured, fully qualified staff
Wickmeads A charming residential and dementia care home in the heart of Southbourne
Registered Charity No. 1014697
Wickmeads
has been purpose-built by Care South, a local not-for profit charity, to offer modern, comfortable facilities for residential and dementia care at a realistic cost. Residents can feel relaxed and at home, with quality care on hand 24-hours a day.
Arrange a visit, request a brochure and find out more at
www.care-south.co.uk or call Wickmeads on 01202 436490 CARE SOUTH IS A LEADING PROVIDER OF RESIDENTIAL AND HOME CARE ACROSS DORSET
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Celebrity Interview
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Celebrity Interview:
Jasper Carrott By Tim Saunders
BAFTA award winning comic Jasper Carrott has been an insomniac for the past two years, he reveals during his sell out Evening Shared tour with Alistair McGowan, currently touring the UK. This affliction hasn’t affected his performance one bit, though. He’s still as sharp as ever and his delivery is spot on. Mundane topics such as obesity and old age are turned into sidesplitting sketches. “The audience always determines what’s funny,” he admits. “If they’re not laughing after three attempts I drop the gag. I did a sketch years ago, 10 or 12 times and then there was a magic ingredient that came up, which then gave a whole new attitude to the piece.” The current show is a format that Jasper knows well having started it with fellow comic and friend Phil Cool in the ‘90s – they did 250 shows together. “It works well because there are two different approaches to comedy. With Alistair, the fascination is that you never know who he is. So, you never know what’s coming. Between us we bring 60 years of experience to the stage.” Before sharing the performance with Alistair McGowan. Jasper did not know him. “Alistair is married to Charlie Page, a lovely lady I worked with when I was Ko-Ko in The Mikado (the comic opera by Gilbert and Sullivan) in the West End. So, we had a link. Alistair and I had our first joint performance at the Henley Festival in 2014.” It was only in 2009 that Jasper came out of retirement. Prior to this he preferred to play
golf. “But my golf was getting worse. I do still play and am getting better. I had been performing in Made in Brum with my mate Bev Bevan from ELO, I’d do half an hour of stand up and he’d do the music. But this format had its limitations, particularly the name. We did about 50 shows; it was very successful. So, we decided to change the name and went with Stand Up and Rock so I’ve been doing a little of that in between working with Alistair. “That got me back into comedy and it is the small venues that I enjoy doing the most because that’s how I started. So, I got back into it and the Alistair thing fitted in with that. And I really started to enjoy comedy again – I am doing it for the sheer love of it. Also, I don’t have to do the whole evening so the responsibility is not all mine. The band was great and then I swapped that for Alistair.” These recent performances made Jasper realise that he had found an audience that wasn’t catered for; a 50 plus audience. “They didn’t like comedy with effing and blinding and with us they can bring their daughter or the daughter can bring the mum.” A career that has spanned five decades first started when Jasper became resident compére at the Boggery Folk Club in Birmingham in the mid-1970s. There he discovered his talent for comedy. A hugely popular stalwart of the British folk club scene, his comedy single Funky Moped shot to the top of the British pop charts in 1975, establishing him as a household name overnight. The flipside was his take on the legendary Magic Roundabout, a record still sought out today by a whole new generation of fans. Carrott’s Lib was winner of a BAFTA Award in 1983. Live work is what’s important to Jasper these days. “In TV, you are ruled by people who do not really know what comedy is. I am very content. I can do what I want when I want to and I really enjoy it.” www.jaspercarrott.com Tim Saunders is an author, journalist and businessman. He meets celebrities, goes on holiday and road tests cars.
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17
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The luxurious 5 star home provides residential, nursing and dementia care for 64 residents. The home features large spacious lounges, dining rooms, garden room, library, cinema & shop. We maintain strong links with the local community and our Activities Co-ordinator provides residents with the choice of a huge variety of creative and fun activities. Choosing the right Care Home is one of the most important decisions you can make for \RXUVHOI RU \RXU ORYHG RQHV DQG LW FDQ EH RQH RI WKH PRVW GLÉ?FXOW +HUH DW +RPHČ´HOG *UDQJH we aim to give you the opportunity to become part of our extended family, where help and care is available at any time, day or night.
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Salisbury Road, Christchurch BH23 7AR T: 01202 238700 ( +RPHČ´HOG *UDQJH#PPFJ FR XN when ZZZ PPFJFDUHKRPHV FR XN responding to adverts
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Community News
Maxine takes the plunge for her hospital She’s been a proud supporter of the NHS all her life, but now Maxine Gribben is taking her love for her hospital to new heights by skydiving out of a plane to raise money for charity! Health Care Assistant Maxine will be taking the plunge on July 9 2017 to raise money for Bournemouth Hospital Charity and to support her patients and colleagues. While she admits the prospect of plummeting through the sky – even with a parachute – is a nerve-wracking one, Maxine says she is determined to take on the challenge to help give something back to her hospital. “I have, and always will be, a massive supporter of the NHS,” says Maxine. “This opportunity to skydive will be a once-in-a-lifetime achievement, especially as I am scared of heights! It will take me out of my comfort zone and force me to be vulnerable which will help give me a better insight into what patients may experience when staying in hospital.”
alongside some fantastic patients who are probably at their most vulnerable. “Meeting this broad spectrum of people has made me realise, even more, how lucky we are to have such an amazing institution. This is why I feel passionate in being able to raise money for a truly deserving hospital.” Maxine is just one of a number of jumpers who will be taking to the skies on July 9 at Old Sarum Park Airfield in Salisbury, including members of the public and other RBCH staff. Anyone wanting to support Maxine can donate by visiting her JustGiving page at JustGiving.com/fundraising/MaxineGribben, while anyone wanting to sign up to jump themselves can register at BHCharity.org/skydive2017/.
Maxine has worked as a Health Care Assistant in Bournemouth for almost a year and says she loves being a part of the team at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital. “It’s been a massive eye-opener into the amazing work each and every member of staff does,” Maxine explains. “I’ve also had the great privilege of working
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19
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Bay Window:
3 part with Georgian bar: £975 3 part without Georgian bar: £925
All our prices are displayed online Visit our website and get your quote:
22
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Top 10 Tips for First Time Buyers Buying your first property can be daunting, so our Conveyancing team have put together some top tips to guide you through the process of buying your first home. Save, Save, Save and Save Some More Most lenders require you to have a deposit of between 5 and 10% so make sure you save as much as possible. Know your Limits Find out how much you can realistically borrow based on your salary and savings. Most lenders will give you a decision in principle which will enable you to see what kind of property you can afford. Government Schemes The Government are keen to help first time buyers so look on their website www.helptobuy.gov.uk for more information. Shop around for a Mortgage Look around for the right mortgage lender and the right deal for you. Some mortgages come with fees so make sure you factor these and other costs such as the Stamp Duty into your budget before you decide. Research the Market You’ll probably view a lot of properties before you find the ‘one’. Its important to prioritise your list of requirements and get as much information from the estate agent and current owners as you can. Harold G Walker’s Conveyancing team
Hire a Solicitor Instructing an approachable and proactive Conveyancer can help your transaction run as smoothly as possible. Our experienced Conveyancing team will be happy to provide a quotation and guide you through the process. Get a Survey Depending on the age and type of property you are buying it is recommended to get the most extensive survey you can afford. Protect your Investment Exchange of contracts is a big step as you will be making a legal commitment to purchase the property and will pay a deposit (usually 10%). Your solicitor will make sure that any issues are resolved before reaching this point. Home Sweet Home
The final step in the process is Completion, this usually happens a few weeks after you have Exchanged. This is where you will finally receive the keys to your first home. Make a Will Now you are a property owner you need to think about making a Will. This is vital if you want to ensure your assets are passed onto your loved ones when you die. For further information please contact a member of our Conveyancing team.
Law Spot is brought to you by Harold G Walker Your Friend-in-Law. The content in this feature are for guidance purposes only and do not constitute legal advice.
To advertise in The Christchurch Directory, call: 01202 894397 enquiries@hgwalker.co.uk | 01202 881454please | www.hgwalker.co.uk
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Why not do something worthwhile and enjoyable in 2017?
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0800 840 7127 or 07943 621199 www.ovenclean.com *£5 discount offer only available until May 2017. Please mention advert at time of booking.
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If you have good listening and communication skills and can spare an hour a week to Befriend an isolated older person in Christchurch, you will find volunteering with us very rewarding. No personal or domestic care tasks will be required – just a cuppa and a chat and maybe a walk.
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If you feel this is something you could do please contact:Lorraine at Age Concern on 01202 488311 or at lorraine.purdue@ageconcernchristchurch.org.uk for a chat.
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25
For all your Domestic & Commercial Demolition & Asbestos Clearance...
Safe and smooth demolition and removal of old sheds and garages. Get rid of the eye sore and create a space to enjoy this summer! Using the highest quality machinery and a team of experienced workers, the job gets done right! Safe and secure transfer of any asbestos waste with all essential documentation. Waste transfer permit held.
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33 Richmond Park Avenue, Queens Park, Bournemouth, BH8 9DN Please mention The Christchurch Directory when responding to adverts
Adventures of Nellie
26 26
The Adventures of Nellie The Dorset Directories Camper Van Football! Nellie had never been to a football match before and with all that testosterone and all those thighs I wasn’t sure if she would make it through the day. She isn’t getting any younger as we all know. It certainly was a new experience for Nellie. Stephen has been a keen football player himself in his youth (he isn’t getting any younger either, but let’s not mention that…) but much to his dismay, Hayden, though pretty good at football from what I hear, is not as keen and has never pursued the very popular sport. Swimming and running are his passion. Having friends in Wimborne, we were invited to watch “The Magpies”, also known as Wimborne Town Football Club! All wrapped up and raring to go, we set off on Saturday afternoon to enjoy a family day out. It absolutely is a family day out and Nellie was really taken with the burgers, (we know she is a big girl don’t we…) all locally sourced from a farm nearby, a friendly café serving good coffee and providing a great atmosphere. With today’s technology of TV, computers, internet and electronic games, it is so easy to stay at home and ‘forget’ that there is a world out there with real live people, where we can be far better entertained. Of course
The Magpies in action against Bridgewater
Nellie all excited about her first match there was a professional football match on the TV in the well set-up bar area, with lots of cheering men, and that all added to the ‘spirit’ of the day. You cannot beat that lively atmospheric comradeship that a sport creates. (Nellie rather likes that sentence.) Wimborne Town Football Club, like many clubs is supported by dedicated local volunteers as well as trained staff. Wimborne is lucky enough to have Matty Holmes as one of their trainers. He recently was appointed the club Manager. He runs his own training school and loves to work with children of all ages to help develop their football skills. The club provides many training sessions in fact, so if you have a boy or girl who is keen to get out, run around and has ‘dispersed energy’ that would be better channelled into a sport, then give the club a call. They would love to hear from you. The club wants to work with local schools and businesses and is keen to develop strong relationships for the good of all, giving a great community benefit, whilst helping youngsters get fit and healthy. It is a win-win scene all round. We picked a wonderful sunny day for our
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27 27 first football experience. Nellie professes to knowing nothing about the rules. She is aware that the players can be ‘offside’ near the goal but that is the limit of her extensive knowledge. You see when Nellie was at school, girls did not play football… it was a boy’s game! Girls didn’t run around kicking a ball. Heaven forbid, how outrageous. Can you ever imagine? It just shows how times have changed. Well I have to say you could hear us shouting, “Come on you Magpies!” at the top of our voices, but not nearly as loud and as enthusiastic as “The Wimborne Massive”! This is a group of boys who have a whale of a time beating the drums and chanting football songs to their hearts content. We loved it! Nellie wanted to join in and I am sure her horn would have been a great asset. Maybe there is a new career ahead for her… ok, maybe not. Seriously, these boys are a credit to the club and they deserve great recognition for creating an exciting and sporting atmosphere. You can even follow them on Twitter! The Magpies were playing against Bridgewater Town that day. It was a good first half but no goals were scored. Half time called for a cup of coffee so all refreshed the whistle blew again. The second half was more exciting from the viewpoint of goals. Wimborne scored twice! There is
The tasty burger chefs - so says Nellie!
Hayden & Debbie with Matty Holmes something about our competitive nature and there is nothing like winning. Nellie cheered and cheered. Jamie Davidson and Toby Holmes scored the goals, but of course it takes a whole team, working together to create a victory and all players are commended! We absolutely loved our first football experience. Sports like this and community clubs that put in much effort to help others are like gold dust. Anyone can go and watch, take in the friendly ambience, have a burger, a chat with others and really enjoy a great afternoon out. The Club also offers Corporate and private Functions, with catering done by Louise and Marc from “Millstream Bistro” so you are guaranteed a great event. Why not take a team of people with you to a match and enjoy a light meal together? A great team building exercise which everyone will enjoy, even those who know nothing about football, as Nellie can vouch for! Give the club a call and they can tell you what they offer. Businesses can also help with Sponsorship or billboards around the field. Wimborne Town Football Club really does want to be at the heart of its community! Nellie couldn’t agree more. Where will she takes us next? By Debbie Corney
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Food & Drink
28 28
Highcliffe Revival Food Festival Extended to 2 Days for 2017 Highcliffe Revival Food Festival is back and bigger and better than ever! Despite the rain last year, the team are buoyed up and are extending the festival over the whole weekend for the first time. Taking place on Saturday 20 May and Sunday 21 May, with Hoburne Holiday Parks as the major sponsor, the food festival has already attracted some well-known names. TV chef and well known Dorset resident Lesley Waters will be taking part on the Saturday and hosting a lunch at the Cliffhanger eatery on the Cliff. Other chefs signed up are Luke Matthews, Executive Head chef from the prestigious Chewton Glen, Manuel Salomon from the Cliffhanger, Kevin Brown from the Lord Bute, Colin Nash from the Three Tuns at Bransgore and Ian Gibbs Executive Head chef from Urban Guild and Jennifer Williams the expert forager and preserve maker from Naked Jam. There will be a huge number of stalls offering a range of artisan foods and drink with popular take away food stalls. Hoburne will be setting up a new children’s entertainment area and plans are well afoot for a ‘Cookery hub’ which will take place in the Methodist Church Hall and feature the cookery theatre and popular “Kids Kitchen”. A children’s baking competition will also be displayed in the hall. There will also be a range of popular workshops in the Sports and Social club including a yoga breakfast, Japanese Tea Ceremony and cocktail masterclasses by the Gin Monocle. Sunday afternoon will feature chocolate making workshops by “Chocolates by
Miss Witt.” Kerry Witt was trained locally and is a master chocolatier who has won numerous awards, including at the World academy of chocolate in London. Tickets for these events are available from the Blue Sky Deli. Chairman Mary Reader says “we are delighted with the range of activities that we have planned and have been very selective about the type and quality of stalls who we have invited to take part. The new Chewton Glen cookery school will be open for visitors on the Sunday and there will be events and special offers at Highcliffe Castle and in local restaurants. All of this together with over 60 acts offering musical entertainment it promises to be a really great weekend of celebrations for the village.” For more information check our website www.highclifferevivalfoodfestival.co.uk Manuel Salomon, chef at Cliffhanger
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Community News
30 30
Friends of the Red House Museum & Gardens 12th April - Ruth Kerr presents a talk on ‘The Eling Experience, a social history of Eling Mill’. We will learn about the past, present and future of this historic site. 2pm at the Red House Museum, Quay Road, Christchurch. £2.50/£4.50 Friends/visitors, to include refreshments. The talk may be held on the 2nd floor accessible only by stairs. Call 01202 482860 to book.
Easter Cat Hunt, Tuesday April 18th, 10.30am 12.30pm. Hunt for pictures of cats hidden around the Museum Garden. Goody bags as prizes if you find them all. Suitable for age 3 - 8. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Booking essential. Call 01202 482860 or call into the Museum for tickets. Children £3.50, Adults £1. Refreshments included in the price 26th April - Alex McKinstry presents a talk entitled ‘The Story behind Tucktonia’. 2pm at the Red House Museum, Quay Road, Christchurch. £2.50/£4.50 Friends/visitors, to include refreshments. The talk may be held on the 2nd floor accessible only by stairs. Call 01202 482860 to book.
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What’s On at Regent Centre
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The Regent is the One! There was only one place to be in Christchurch on Wednesday 15 March at 7pm and that was at the Regent Centre, which was chosen from all the Independent Cinemas in the UK, to provide a representative audience of film fans to appear live on BBC 1’s The One Show A near capacity audience of 476 patrons (full house is 484), who had booked to see the Oscar nominated film, Lion (PG), on Wednesday 15 March for the 7.30pm show, were absolutely amazed to find themselves as the stars of the evening, live on The One Show! A live satellite lead had been set up from Broadcasting House in London to beam The One Show direct for everyone to watch on the big screen at the Regent from 7pm. The lead story on The One Show was an interview with Hollywood A listers, Jake Gyllenhaal and Rebecca Ferguson, who were promoting their brand new film, the Sci-Fi thriller, Life (15), produced by Sony
Pictures and due for its UK release on 24 March. What the Regent audience did not realise was that the BBC also had a film crew in the auditorium in Christchurch, ready to beam back their live reaction to the star interview and the clips from Life (15). Life (15) obviously met with the film fans’ approval because there was loud applause and cheers as their reactions were beamed live across the UK on BBC 1. Christchurch will get an early chance to see the new film, when Life (15) will be shown at the Regent on Wednesday 5 April at 5.15pm and 8pm. The scheduled showing of Lion (PG) followed on at 8pm just to complete an unforgettable night out for the audience at the Regent.
Regent Centre General Manager, Felicity Porter, was on hand to give a big Christchurch welcome to the BBC van!
Regent General Manager, Felicity Porter, said: “It is absolutely amazing that the BBC chose the Regent as their leading Independent Cinema to appear on The One Show. We are so proud both for the Regent and for Christchurch. The One Show has an average audience of 5 million viewers, so this has really put us on the map and it will be the talk of the town for years to come!”
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The Christchurch Directory Prize Wordsearch
O N B W V Z J H E K X B Y W Y
Z B O R Q J A N O E I R A A O
E C N T X Z G V M X D A D E E
N T N P C L J I S Q Y S I P B
U W E B U U T W N Y L T R P U
Y F T Q T R E G C O F V F U N
E K M F E R T H O A K I D Z N
G E Q M E A A F A B C C O W Y
G U M T N U L M A X C B O L I
S U S E N I O Y Z J V Y G T K
S A T V R T C O C Y O H O C C
E S B P B P O D U N C F R M I
Z S A P F Z H L R F N R P W H
E R P Z L X C B U D T C V T C
P U O S R E W O H S L I R P A
EGGS CHICK BONNET APRIL FOOLS DAY SUMMER TIME APRIL SHOWERS GOOD FRIDAY EASTER CHOCOLATE BUNNY
This month, the prize is a pair of tickets to see The Wizard of Oz at the Regent Centre on Weds 31st May 2017 at 7.30pm, so please complete this page by 28th April and send to:
April Prize Wordsearch Name: The Christchurch Directory, Address: 1 Moorlands Rise, West Moors, Ferndown, BH22 0JR Telephone:
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Gardening Tips
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On Your Plot
April showers to October fun It’s wonderful to see the first fresh, local, asparagus appear for sale this month and if you’ve a bit of space spare on your plot now’s the time to plant this gourmet crop. Buy one year old crowns and plant them immediately into well drained soil. You should be able to take a small harvest next year and they’ll carry on cropping for up to 20 years!
Jobs for April :-
• Keep an eye out for late frosts and cover any vulnerable plants • Harden off indoor sowings before planting out • Start off French beans and Brussels Sprouts under cover • Fancy something a bit more exotic? Try growing some peppers and aubergines - sow this month in a greenhouse or polytunnel • Plant an asparagus bed • Earth up potatoes once the first shoots appear
Now is the time for April showers and with the weather warming up all the time and some gentle rain you’ll soon be seeing lots of changes on your veggie plot. It’s a time when any indoor space, be it greenhouse, cold frame, or just window sills, is likely to be filling rapidly with young seedlings. If you are thinking of planting some of your seedlings out then don’t forget to harden them off first. You can move the pots outside each morning, bringing them in at night to gradually acclimatise them to the change. Do remember too that late frosts can still happen in April, damaging plants that are unprotected. Watch the weather forecast and if there’s any danger of frost then use fleece or cloches to protect plants where necessary. On the subject of cloches, save any empty plastic bottles that you may have. Cut the bottom off and you are left with a wonderful mini cloche to protect seedlings that are recently planted out. Push the plastic down into the soil firmly and it will keep off not only some of the chill but also any slugs that may have their eye on tasty young leaves.
Are you a fan of Halloween? Pumpkins can be quite expensive come the end of October and then there’s always the hunt for one just the right size. Why not have a go at growing one (or several!) of your own this year? Pumpkins need a long, growing season to ripen well so now is the time to start them off. There’s lots of different varieties, including some giant ones if you want something really impressive to carve. Look out on the packets for ones that are early ripening for the best chances of success. Pumpkin seeds are huge so it’s easy to sow just one to each pot. I’d sow at least 3 plants, if they all germinate and mature it’ll probably be more than you need (they can take a lot of room as they grow) but it’s better to have spare in case you loose some early on - if they all grow well you can always pass one on to a friend or neighbour and have a competition to see who gets the biggest pumpkin! You’ll need to keep your young plant inside until all risk of frost has passed. When it comes time to plant the pumpkin out it will like lots of nutrients in the soil. Dig out a large hole and put in lots of well rotted compost - or you can even plant your pumpkin straight on top of an old compost heap. They’ll bloom with wonderfully exotic looking, huge yellow flowers and it’s wise to consider removing the growing tip once three fruit have set as this will give a better chance for larger, riper, pumpkins. Support the growing fruits on a bed of straw to avoid them dropping off or becoming mushy. Are you enjoying purple spouting broccoli at the moment? You can buy summer varieties to plant now, or try Calbrese (this has the green heads) which is best planted straight into the beds where they will grow.
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36 36
Money Saving Tips
Martin
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In January, for many, the letterbox becomes an enemy. When it flips open it contains a bill. And the worst of those for many are credit cards - a final reckoning of the last year’s debts, topped off by Christmas spending. If you’ve debts you can’t repay, there are two key things to do: stop borrowing more and cut the interest rate. By cutting the rate, more of your repayments clear the actual debt rather than just help add profit to the lender. The main weapon to clear credit and store cards is a balance transfer, where you get a new credit card(s) that repays debts on existing cards for you, so you owe it, but at a far lower cost, for a small fee. The good news is right now there’s white hot competition in this market. So, sort it now and stop paying more than needed. And if you won’t listen to me, listen to Marc who emailed: “took your tip on taking a balance transfer card and we’ve saved £9,400 over the next 40 months. Amazing.” How to choose the right balance transfer card deals There are a vast range of cards to choose from, ranging up to 43 months 0%. But it isn’t quite a simple as just go for the longest. 1. Go for the lowest fee in the time you’re sure you can repay. Most cards charge a one-off fee on the amount of debt transferred. So, for example, 3% is £30 per £1,000. Generally, the longer the
0% period, the bigger the fee. So, what you need to do is calculate how long you think you’ll take to clear the debt, add a few months for safety, then pick the lowest fee within the time you need. If you’re not sure, play safe and go long. For example, the longest card available at the time of writing is the www.MBNA.co.uk up to 43 mths 0%, with a 3.29% fee. The longest no-fee card is www.Halifax. co.uk up to 26 mths 0%. 2. You need a PERSONALISED best buy table. Each lender credit scores you differently, where one accepts, others reject. Best buy tables just list the best offers available, but what really counts is what you can be accepted for. Worse still, the only way to find out what you’ll actually get is to apply, and that marks your credit file. Yet we’ve seen a new range of tools that show your likely chances of acceptance before applying, protecting your credit score. Some card firms have their own or my Eligibility Calculator (www.mse.me/BTeligibility) shows your chances for most top cards, effectively giving you a personal best buy table. 3. Many cards are ‘up to’s’: With these cards, only 51% of accepted applicants need get the advertised 0% length, the rest could get a shorter deal. So, in many cases, the cards that aren’t ‘up to’s’ can be better.@MoneySavingExpert The longest non-up
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37 to 0% deal is www.SainsburysBank.
Martin co.uk 42mth 0% for a 3.5% fee, and it
LEWIS
also has the longest fee free deal at 25mth 0%. This is especially important when you %DODQFH 7UDQIHU do a eligibility comparison. If all your accepted cards are ‘up to’ cards, then the likelihood is you won’t get the full 0%. So even if there’re one or two non ‘up to’ deals there, they may be worth looking at. The 3 Balance Transfer Golden Rules Getting the right card’s only half the job. Once you get it, you need to use it the right way. a) Repay at least the set monthly min, or you can lose the 0% deal. The same can be true if you bust your credit limit. b) Always clear the card or shift again before the 0% ends, or rates jump to the representative APRs, typically 18% to 20%. c) Don’t spend or withdraw cash on them, it’s rarely at the cheap rate. Instead, shift your debt to these cards, then put it away somewhere not to be used. A final thought on this. The best way to clear debts is to repay as much as you can and be wary of only repaying the minimum repayments. That’s dangerous. Minimum repayments are set to only just cover the interest, so repayments drop as debt drops, prolonging the debt period. For example, with £3,000 on a typical card, repaying minimum repayments it’d take you 27 years to repay, costing £4,000 in interest. Now you may say to me “I can’t afford to pay more”. Yet in the first month the minimum repayment would be about £70, and if you fixed your repayment at
that rather than letting it drop, you’d clear the debt in five years. Yet if you’ve multiple debts, order them in terms of interest rates, and throw all spare cash at repaying the one with the highest rate (as its growing fastest). Just pay minimums on the rest. Once that’s clear, focus on the next most expensive debt and so on. Are you in debt crisis? The solutions above are for those who can manage their debts. Yet if you a) can’t meet even the minimum monthly payments b) have non-mortgage debts bigger than a year’s salary or c) can’t sleep due to your debts, or have depression or anxiety because of them, then you’re in what I define as debt crisis. Forget the above and get free, one-onone debt-counselling help from www. CitizensAdvice.org, www.capuk.org, www. StepChange.org or www.NationalDebtline. co.uk. They They are there to help, not judge. The most common thing I hear after is: “I finally got a good night’s sleep”. @MoneySavingExpert
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38
Index of advertisers
Your quick guide to everyone and everything in your Directory...
Activity Centres Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre.........................23
LawSpot....................................22 Martin Lewis: Balance Transfer....................36 Maxine takes the plunge for her hospital......................18 On your plot: April showers to October fun........................34 Regent Centre is the One!.........32
Aerial Photography SkyPicsUK.................................24
Day Nurseries Burton Day Nursery.................. 8
Plumbers Bournemouth Plumbing Solutions................................14
Bedrooms Custom Creations..................... 2 Flair Interiors............................29
Demolition & Asbestos Services Pro-Dem...................................25
Pressure Cleaning Services Fullpower Pressure Cleaning....10
Dentists Hoburne Dental Practice.......... 7
Property Maintenance The Home Doctor Handyman.... 3
Denture Services Dorset Denture Clinic................14
Puzzles & Competitions Crossword.................................10 Prize Wordsearch......................33
Accountants Simple Accountancy.................. 5 Ward Goodman........................35
Blinds, Curtains & Shutters Ashley Blinds............................. 3 Broadview Shading Solutions.... 5 Tuscany Blinds.......................... 8 Book Writing Course Mike’s Online Academy............35 Cameras Rocky Rock Cameras.................14 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaners Cleaning Doctor........................15 Chiropractors Paul Harris................................13 Community News Adventures of Nellie.................26 Befriending Volunteers for Age Concern...........................24 Celebrity interview: Jasper Carrott........................16 Dorset students JET propelled.... 6 Dorset Wildlife Trust: Is your garden ready?............12 Friends of Red House Museum....30 Highcliffe Revival Food Festival 2017.................28
Estate Agents Michael Adam..........................13 Garage Services Trickett Welding........................30 Garden Centres Kings Park Nursery...................23 Health & Fitness Burton Foot Care......................14 Soft Handz Massage................. 3 Kitchens Brian’s Kitchens........................ 7 Flair Interiors............................29
Oven Cleaners Ovenclean.................................24 Oven King.................................35 Pet Services Muddyford Mutts.....................30
Residential Care Homes Homefield Grange....................17 Wickmeads...............................15 Solicitors Harold G Walker.......................40 Tree Surgeons Apex Tree Surgeons..................19 Ashley Tree Surgeons................15 Volunteers Wanted Dial-A-Bus.................................30
Letting Agents Belvoir...................................... 9
Windows, Doors & Conservatories Allglaze.....................................31 Cloudy2Clear Windows.............11 Dorset Windows....................... 2 Pure Windows..........................20
Loft Conversions & Services Loft Services..............................13
Worktops Portman Stone..........................39
To advertise in The Christchurch Directory, please call: 01202 894397
39
GRANITE & QUARTZ WORKTOPS VISIT OUR EXTENSIVE GRANITE GALLERY
Your
BEST VALUE local supplier!
100’s of slabs to choose from!
SPRING CLEAN and replace your tired old worktops
SILESTONE the best
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Ask about our NEW Exclusive Sergio Quartz Range
£50 Donation to MacMillan when you place an order with this advert. sales@portmanstone.com www.portmanstone.com
SHOWROOM & GRANITE GALLERY 1 Airfield Way, Christchurch BH23 3PE
A337
Contact 01202 484 340 A35
Portman Stone Factory/Showroom
CHRISTCHURCH Sainsbury’s
SOMERFORD
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