Roundabout Ringwood - August 2023

In this issue...

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Trust emphasises the importance of nutrient scheme

Ringwood Society increasing interest in the history and character of Ringwood

Celebrity Interview: Dermot O’Leary

Green ngers: Alan Titchmarsh Column

Recipe: Edd Kimber’s Pistachio & Lemon Cake

AUG 2023

Welcome...

Dear Residents,

Here we are in the height of summer! I do hope the weather stays good for the holidays. Having had such sunshine fairly early this year, I hope it lasts throughout August and September. Are you going away or staying in our wonderful England, near the sea or in the countryside? We have such delights here, places to visit, serene scenery to highly active play parks, the choices are endless. We will be staying local that is for sure this year.

Don’t forget our trustworthy and needed trades people, local shops and businesses still need us at this time of year. Maybe they could help you, while you take a day or two out? In addition to our printed magazines we now have a fully interactive magazine online. You can find this at www.hampshireemag. co.uk Here you can click on the advert and go to the business website, click a phone number and it will make the call and there are even online games to play. If you are more of a technical person, this could be for you. I still like the traditional paper magazines myself, with the ability to flick through and have a coffee at the same time, but we are here to cater for all!

The whole team wish you a super summer and if you know of any advertisers who you think will benefit from our thousands of printed magazines, or our online issues, please let them know about us.

Wishing you all the Very Best, Debbie, Stephen, Mel, Julie, Tracey, Pippa, Steph, Jaidan & Chris

DISCLAIMER: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the data in this

is accurate, the publisher cannot accept any liability to any party to loss or damaged caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause.

Roundabout

NOW and THEN

Article and photo kindly supplied by Mary Baldwin

Christchurch Road, looking south - Part 2

c.1900

Miss Carter was a staunch non-conformist and politically Liberal, so the hall was popular with those of similar views, as opposed to the Conservatives, who favoured the Town Hall in the Market Place (now the old cinema).

The old photograph of c1900 shows Christchurch Road looking south, taken slightly further down the street from the c1960 photograph in the last issue of Now and Then.

The terrace of old thatched cottages on the left sadly burnt down and was replaced by Robin Payne’s garage, now the site of Elizabeth Court retirement apartments. The other buildings remain. Beyond the railings is the turning off to School Lane. The centre of the photograph gives a clearer view of the old thatched house mentioned in the previous article, now the site of modern private accommodation.

On the extreme right, next to the pinafored girl with the pram, are the brick columns and iron railings in front of the Methodist chapel, now long gone, although the chapel still remains. To the left of them is a tall imposing Victorian building known as the Lecture Hall. This was generously gifted to the town in 1874 by Miss Sarah Carter, the owner of Carter’s brewery in West Street. Strangely for a brewery owner she was a promoter of temperance who was said to have given out temperance tracts to her employees! The Lecture Hall contained a hall for social events, a reading-room and a library, and was originally intended to be alcohol-free.

Sadly Ringwood lost this community facility when the hall was demolished around 1960 and replaced by an ugly square flat-roofed building housing two shops. In recent years these have been completely redesigned and given sloping roofs and traditional windows. They are now occupied by Amarone Italian restaurant and Ground coffee shop, with private apartments above.

Next door is a house which, although drastically altered on ground floor level (now Price’s fish and chip shop and Alina Homecare), still retains something of its Georgian appearance above.

To its left is Baker’s cycle shop, which will be described more fully in my next article.

Copyright © Mary Baldwin

Taken in 2023

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Ringwood Society Increasing Interest in the History and Character of Ringwood

Ringwood Society has several aims. One of those is to encourage people, both locals and visitors, to explore and to delight in the history and character of this Chartered Market Town. To help the Visitor’s Town Trail has been relaunched and a new Information Board with a Town Map marking some of the listed buildings has been installed. These have been funded by Ringwood Society members’ contributions and a grant from Hampshire County Council. Mary Baldwin, committee member and author of the Town Trail explained, “Our original Town Trail was published 25 years ago. It was extremely popular and inspired people to explore parts of Ringwood they may never have noticed. We have relaunched it this year with a slightly different route and updated images. We are keen to ensure that it is historically accurate whilst also showing people how the town has progressed over the years. As a society we are very proud of our town and aim to ensure that others care about its history too.”

Whilst reviewing the Town Trail, Ringwood Society realised that many people were unaware of the rich array of listed buildings within the Town Centre and often don’t venture as far as the Market Place or the High Street. This gave rise to the Town Centre map which is now proudly displayed on an Information Board outside Ringwood Gateway.

Alex Bancroft, the newest Ringwood Society committee member and local Chartered Architect commented, ‘Ringwood has a rich heritage with many buildings of both national and local importance, and we want to be able to highlight these to anyone arriving in the Town. Through showcasing these buildings we hope that people will spend time enjoying their surroundings in more detail and visit our local shops, cafes and restaurants to enjoy a drink or some food, whilst they immerse themselves in the amazing architecture our historic market town has to offer.’

Pictured is an illustration of the Town Trail.

Copies of the Town Trail are available in Ringwood Gateway, Ringwood Meeting House and History Centre, Greyfriars Community Centre and many of the cafes, pubs and shops in the town. They have also been provided to campsites and hotels in the area.

If you are a resident or local to Ringwood, why not join The Ringwood Society. Membership details and more information about the work of Ringwood Society, together with an online version of the Town Trail and Map can be found on the Ringwood Society website ringwoodsociety.org.uk or by emailing info@theringwoodsociety.org.uk

Puzzle Page Quick Crossword

Across Clues:

5. Announcer (9)

8. Indicating pitch (4)

9. Upper floor (8)

10. Large tall mass of ice (7)

11. Creature (5)

13. Flock (5)

15. Care for (7)

18. Plural, continued musical phrase (8)

19. 4840 square yards (4)

20. Matters from plants (9)

Down Clues:

1. Made beforehand (6)

2. Inlet (7)

3. Worry (5)

4. Conduct yourself (6)

6. Movement, hands of time (9)

7. Undergarment (9)

12. Supernatural (7)

14. Attacker (6)

16. Once a year (6)

17. Ring-shaped bread (5)

Word Ladder

Make your way from TIDE to MOVE by changing one letter on each step to make a new word!

#030

World Cup Trivia

1. Who won the World Cup 2022?

2. Who was the top goal scorer?

3. When did England last win the World Cup?

4. How many goals did Messi score in the 2022 World Cup?

5. Who hosted the first World Cup?

6. Which team has won the most World Cups?

7. Which team has the most overall losses since the first ever World Cup?

8. There were 2 years in which the World Cup was cancelled, what are those years?

9. What was the first Women’s World Cup?

10. What is the “Group of Death”?

ANSWERS: (TIDE,

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Mr Consistency

Why Dermot O’Leary is one of light entertainment’s heaviest commodities.

Dermot O’Leary, by his own admission, encounters his fair share of criticism. Some accuse him of playing a little too much guitar music on his Radio 2 weekend show, and in the past the Twitterati have suggested his presenting voice can be a touch monotone. However, such observations are both unfair and untrue. Rather, the popular entertainment fraternity should be thanking the 50-year-old for delivering a healthy dose of sanity to a TV and radio ratings clamour that becomes all the more farcical with every new reality series or sensationalist podcast.

Dermot has lived through well over two decades of the madness, and emerges to tell the tale. “Certainly, as a competitive environment it’s much crazier than it ever was,” he begins. “There are so many different options for viewers and listeners these

days, but I like to think I have always sided myself with projects that are tasteful, interesting and, more than anything else, entertaining.

“I’ve always had a lot of fun doing live TV and radio, and when it stops being that way, I look for something else to do.

“Variation is key. Like most people, I’m interested in so many different things, and I never lose sight of the fact I’m lucky enough to explore these in the public domain.”

Sean Dermot Fintan O’Leary Jr was born and raised in Colchester. His parents, Seán and Maria, had landed on these shores from Ireland. After feeling his way through the education system he attended Middlesex University, where he graduated in Media Studies and Politics.

Returning to his home county to work at BBC Radio Essex, that calling was clearly in the entertainment industry, and he quickly progressed from DJ tasks to TV school runner and Channel 4 presenter, working, notably, on Big Brother’s Little Brother before switching to ITV.

“I think most people know me for Big Brother and X Factor, and they’ve been a massive

part of my life, but as in most things, you know when the time is right to give stuff up, and it became important for me to pursue other projects.”

His switch to hosting the Saturday morning breakfast show on Radio 2 is perhaps a nod to future ambitions, and undoubtedly Dermot has the style, humility and confidence to make a genuine assault on larger commitments on the airwaves.

“I think radio is an incredible medium and it has always excited me. It’s a very different creature to TV… I don’t have to dress up, for a start!”

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tax and help protect their share from care fees

The Property Protection Trust Will package is based around how you hold the ownership of your home. All good estate planning nowadays considers the difference between owning your home as joint tenants or as tenants in common.

If you own your home as Joint Tenants; when one of you dies the ownership of the home passes by the Law of Survivorship and not by your Will. Therefore, the surviving partner will automatically own 100% of the property. This sounds right to most people. BUT should the surviving partner need care in the future, the Local Authority can take everything they own (including their home) to pay for the care fees, leaving just £14,250 to be inherited by children and grandchildren.

There is an alternative.

Nowadays many couples choose to own their home as Tenants in Common where each partner will own 50% of the family home. This provides for many benefits.

Firstly, it allows you to legally leave your share of the property in your Will to whoever you wish. A properly written Will can ensure that your half of your house will eventually pass to your children even if your widow re-marries.

Unmarried cohabiting couples or relatives living together can also use this means of ownership as a way of minimising their Inheritance Tax exposure.

It can also help with long-term care costs. If one of you is still living in your home the Local Authority can’t include its value in the means test if one of you has to go in to long-term care. This also applies if the husband or wife still living at home dies while the other is in care as their share will go into the trust.

Dorset and Wight are your local experts in Property Protection Trust Wills.

Increasing numbers of homeowners are choosing to hold their properties as tenants in common to reduce inheritance

Understanding Investments: Investment choices within a Pension

Pensions is not a word which excites most people! However, I urge you to spend 5 minutes of your time reading the following brief article as pensions can provide extremely effective, tax-efficient investment opportunities. Pensions are also relevant for more people than you might initially think.

The introduction of auto-enrolment has resulted in more people saving towards their retirement through a pension than ever before. A very good outcome for consumers! But it’s the tax saving opportunities pensions can offer which I would like to focus on, and I have highlighted some examples below to illustrate.

Employees, Self-Employed and Company Directors: Each can personally contribute 100% of their relevant UK earnings into their pension (or £3,600 gross if no earnings) and these contributions will attract tax relief. The annual allowance limit of £60,000 (which includes both employee and employer contributions for an individual) should also be considered, which can be tapered back to as little as £10,000 for high earners. Tax relief is available at a person’s highest marginal rate i.e. anything between 20% and 45% (even nontaxpayers receive 20% tax relief on contributions to pensions operating ‘relief at source’ such as personal pensions).

“Carry-Forward” may be available for the previous 3 tax years if the individual had a pension plan in place in those years. To utilise this, the current tax year’s annual allowance must be fully used and then it is possible to go back 3 tax years to utilise any unused allowances. Companies can also contribute to a pension plan on behalf of their employees/directors, and the company’s contribution is added to personal contributions when considering the annual allowance. Many of my employed clients aim to avoid paying higher or additional rate tax on their salary and bonus. Pension contributions can assist in enabling them to mitigate these tax liabilities. The rate at which additional rate tax is applied was reduced to £125,140 in April 2023 so this has become even more important.

The reduction and loss of a personal tax free allowance with income over £100,000 and Child Benefit Tax Charge for income over £50,000 can also be mitigated through pension contributions.

Company directors and their accountants often seek my advice on how to draw profits from their business taxefficiently. Pension contributions are classed as a business expense so, if an employer’s pension contribution is made instead of a dividend payment to the director, this can usually save them both corporation tax on the company profits and personal dividend tax on the contribution.

Howard Goodship

Retirees and Family Contributions:

Even people who don’t work can benefit from tax relief on pension contributions up to £2,880 per annum as the government top this up to £3,600. That’s a 25% return on the original £2,880 from the tax relief alone! Many of my older clients help their adult children and grandchildren save for retirement, especially if they have surplus income and/or capital.

Pension contributions made by a third party may still qualify for tax-relief at the recipient’s highest marginal rate. For example, an adult child may be a higher rate tax- payer and a pension contribution paid by their parent (who may not pay tax or only pay basic rate tax) could qualify for relief at the higher rate. This can also be effective from an inheritance tax perspective as the pension contribution is classed as a lifetime gift. This is subject to the recipient having relevant earnings and not already using their full annual allowance.

There is no denying pension legislation is complicated, and the devil is in the detail. The examples above are broad and are not meant as financial advice.

If you’d like to learn more or discuss your personal situation, we would be delighted to meet for a free, no obligation initial chat.

Howard Goodship is an Independent Financial Adviser with Lonsdale Wealth Management, 5 Fridays Court, Ringwood. Tel: 01425 208490 www.lonsdaleservices.co.uk

A pension is a long-term investment not normally accessible until age 55 (57 from April 2028 unless the plan has a protected pension age). The value of your investments (and any income from them) can go down as well as up which would have an impact on the level of pension benefits available. Your pension income could also be affected by the interest rates at the time you take your benefits. The tax implications of pension withdrawals will be based on your individual circumstances, tax legislation and regulation which are subject to change. You should seek advice to understand your options at retirement.

Fuelled for e ciency

Five of the most fuel-efficient petrol cars on the UK market.

While there are a number of ways we can seek the most out of our motors when it comes to driving technique and conditions, a petrol engine’s raw, operational ability to clock through the miles per gallon of petrol is something that’s largely set.

So if you’re looking to maximise fuel efficiency, take a look at the following marvellous motors.

Suzuki Swift (65.7 mpg)

Where fuel efficiency goes, the Suzuki Swift is seriously impressive, with a claimed fuel economy of up to 65.7 mpg. That means, at current fuel cost, a five-mile journey on relatively clear, urban roads, will cost around 50p in petrol.

The Swift, a 1.2-litre, fivespeed manual or automatic gearbox also comes with a range of features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking.

Kia Picanto (60 mpg)

Known for its affordability, practicality, and fuel efficiency, the Kia Picanto advertises up to 53.3 mpg, though a number of tests have shown these levels to increase up to 60mpg. That would mean a five-mile journey could set you back as little as 55p.

The car also comes with a touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control and rear-view camera.

Citroen C3 (55.1 mpg)

Comfort as well as peace, the C3 has a 83bhp petrol engine that gives impressive numbers for fuel efficiency – a five-mile trip will set you back just 59p in petrol cost.

In any case, what it may lack in an infotainment system it makes up for in terms of space in the back for passengers.

Mazda 2 (52.3 mpg)

Known for its sporty handling, sleek design and fuel efficiency, the Mazda 2 is available as both a hatchback and a sedan and is a popular choice for city driving and commuting.

It comes with a 1.5-litre petrol engine that produces up to 90 horsepower, and will set you back around 60p for five miles of uninterrupted driving.

Volkswagen up! (52.3 mpg)

Fun to drive, practical and fuel efficient, the VW up! can produce up to 66 horsepower from its small 1-litre engine.

Similar to the Mazda 2 in terms of fuel efficiency, it also includes a touchscreen infotainment system, rearview camera and automatic climate control.

Worst fuel efficiencies

In contrast, and comparing the recent new cars on the market, here are a selection that will get you least far for your money:

Audi S8 – 21.7mpg (£1.49 for five miles)

Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio – 23.5mpg (£1.38)

Lexus LC500 – 24.2mpg (£1.34)

Audi AQ5 – 24.6mpg (£1.32)

Mercedes S500 – 25.2mpg (£1.28)

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MUSIC FOR THE MIND

At St Michaels Church, Church Hill, Verwood BH31 6DZ. 4th Monday of the Month at 11.00am 12.30 excluding August. Singing meeting for people with memory problems. Aim is to give carer & cared for quality time together. FREE. For more info call Gwen on 01202 827800

RINGWOOD GOOD NEIGHBOURS

Helping people in the BH24 postcode area with transport for medical appointments and also has a BEFRIENDING service. Please contact us on 07933 202112. More drivers always welcome, please phone if you can spare a few hours a week.

GREYFRIARS FUN & FRIENDSHIP CLUB

Social club for the older community who meet on 1st and 3rd Thursday afternoons each month, 2pm – 4.15pm, in the Activities Hall, Greyfriars, Ringwood. Contact Sam Davies 01425 472613

COMPUTER CAFE

Meet in St Leonards & St Ives Village Hall every Friday morning from 9 until noon. Currently we operate in a socially distanced way so unfortunately we are unable to serve refreshments at present. But we are here to help you with any IT problems. Call 01425 476558 for info.

FORDINGBRIDGE BOWLING CLUB

Full programme of Leagues’ Bowls for both Ladies & Gents in the New Forest & B’mouth & District Leagues. Stuckton Road, Fordingbridge.

Contact: Mr D C Jones 01425 657627

RINGWOOD FLY DRESSERS GUILD

We promote the art of Fly Dressing/Tying. Wednesday evenings at 7pm - 9:30pm at Poulner Junior School, North Poulner Road, Ringwood, BH24 3LA. New members always welcome

Secretary Peter Wildash: 07587000223, mayoflycraft@talktalk.net

Visually impaired people meet on the 2nd and 4th Thursday afternoon each month at Greyfriars Activities Centre, Ringwood

Contact Kate Henderson 01425 476568 / Russell Webb 01425 476618

EDMONDSHAM CIRCLE DANCERS

Traditional and contemporary folk dances from around the world. No partners needed. Meeting on 1st, 3rd and 5th Fridays of each month from 7:30 – 9:45 in Edmondsham Village Hall. Pay as you go. Contact Kirsteen McCormick on 01725 517807.

THE RINGWOOD AND BURLEY BAND

Practice evening, each Friday at 8pm - 10pm. Ebenezer Hall, Greyfriars, Ringwood. NEW PLAYERS WELCOME!

Jane Lashmar: ringwoodandburleyband@mail.com

WESSEX SUGARCRAFTERS

Meet 3rd Monday each month at 7pm at Radnor Hall, Bodenham. New members & visitors very welcome. £5 inc refreshments.

Info: Pat Jones 01258 452510 Doreen Simkins 01425 652085

VERWOOD TRAD JAZZ CLUB

Ringwood Conservative Club, 22 Christchurch Road, Ringwood. BH24 1DN on 3rd Thursday of the month. Good Food & Bar. Music from 7.30- 10pm. (Doors open from 6.30pm). No membership required. Contact Geoff 07798 721405 or 01202 822038

This full symphony orchestra rehearses 7.30 pm Wednesdays at St Peter’s Senior Catholic School, St Catherine’s Rd, Southbourne. Contact conductor Sam Newgarth 01258 473073. sam@newgarth.fsnet.co.uk www.baps -orch.co.uk

THE DORSET WOODTURNE RS ASSOCIATION

Want to try woodturning? Come and join us at St Leonards & St Ives Village Hall Braeside Road St Leonards Ringwood BH24 2PH 1st Wednesday each month 7.15pm -9.30pm. for more details

Contact: Nigel Lloyd Secretary on 07940 348776 or just come along

ROYAL AIR FORCES ASSOCIATION

Fordingbridge & District Branch No. 1321. Meet every 4th Thursday in the Month at Scout Hall, Fordingbridge 7.30pm. Open to all ex RAF & friends.

GERMAN CONVERSATION GROUPS

Pub nights, Parent/toddler group, German church. Contact: Cass 01425 479101 email: cassscholz1@yahoo.co.uk www.krautsalat.org

RINGWOOD & FORDINGBRIDGE TALKING NEWS

Supplies audio transcripts of local newspapers and non -political and non-sectarian magazines free to sight impaired people. Welcomes donations & help to read & edit.

Contact: Peter Ansell 01425 475886

Join us to maintain footpaths and enjoy organised walks, social activities and winter evening meetings.

Membership Secretary: 01425 647499 www.rffs.org.uk

BRAESIDE BOWLING CLUB

Braeside Road St Leonards. A bowling club for ALL - participating in the Leagues, Friendlies & Internal competitions. Club sessions Mon & Fri afternoons. Beginners and established players welcome Secretary Brian Morrell 01202 828614

RINGWOOD COMMUNITY CHOIR, “SING FOR JOY”

Mixed choir, singing harmony songs from around the world -African, gospel, Taize, folk etc. No auditions, beginners as well as experienced singers age 10 upwards. Meet at Greyfriars Wednesdays, 7:30 – 9:30. Pay as you go. Contact Kirsteen McCormick 01725 517807

FORDINGBRIDGE CAMERA CLUB

Meet at Avonway Community Centre at 7.30 pm alternate Wednesdays for a mixture of talks by top photographers and members’ shows constructively judged by experienced professionals. 01725 518448 www.fordingbridgecameraclub.org.uk

NEW FOREST JAZZ WORKSHOPS

At Godshill Village Hall, final Wednesday of every month at 7.30pm for musicians, any ability, who want to learn jazz. £4 per session, inc tea & biscuits. Derek Ayling, 01425 650770 or Hippotrain@btinternet.com

HEATHERLANDS SHORT MAT BOWLS CLUB

We bowl from 7.30pm to 10 pm every Wed & Sun at St. Leonards & St. Ives Village Hall, Braeside Road. A gentle sport suitable for ladies as well as men. Ring George on 07831224945

FORDINGBRIDGE & DISTRICT U3A

Every 3rd Wednesday 2-4pm ‘Avonway’ in Fordingbridge. Members also join activity groups according to interest. Info at u3asites.org.uk/ fordingbridge, Info packs in Fordingbridge library, or come to a meeting (£2 guest) Peter Woollett (memb. Sec) 01425 655490

RINGWOOD UNITARIANS

New group exploring and celebrating matters of spirituality, faith and conscience, asking you not telling you your faith. http://ringwoodunitarians.blogspot.co.uk or 07899 730181

GREYFRIARS PLAYREADING GROUP

Every Wednesday 2- 4pm in Greyfriars, Ringwood. The repertoire spans 19th and 20th century drama and we put ‘feeling’ into our parts just like BBC Radio productions. We are short of male readers and would like to see some new faces! Contact Russell Webb 01425 476618

CROWE HILL W.I.

Meet Monthly 2nd Thurs 2pm at Crowe Hill W.I. Hall, Crow Lane. Visitors welcome. Contact: christine.williams0@icloud.com

RINGWOOD MUSICAL & DRAMATIC SOCIETY & CHOIR. A friendly theatre group of all ages staging Musicals, Plays & Choir concerts. If you’d like to join us either on stage, behind the scenes or singing in the Choir, email our secretary jane.howell059@gmail.com. For our Choir contact Pamela Berry on 01425 402366.

RINGWOOD NWR

Small friendly women’s group looking for new members. Main meeting monthly weekdays at 7.30pm. Book group meet monthly on Mon after- noons. See nwr.org.uk or contact Josephine 01425 476052

RINGWOOD ART SOCIETY

Meets every 3 rd Monday of the month at 7 pm to 9.30 pm at Greyfriars Community Centre, Ringwood. Monthly demonstrations by professional artists, also workshops and pottery afternoons. New Members welcome. Contact David Lowe 01425 482602 or www.ringwoodartsociety.org

FORDINGBRIDGE EMBROIDERY CLUB

Meet on the 1st Tuesday of each month at The Methodist Hall, West Street, Fordingbridge. 2-4 pm. Novices & experts welcome. Valerie 01425 656052 or Mary 01425 471362

RINGWOOD & POULNER TREFOIL GUILD

Guiding for the 18 to 80+ Come and join our lively group who enjoy fun, food and fellowship. We meet at the Trinity Centre, Ringwood 7-9pm 1st Thursday of the month for speakers activities and fun. Transport available. Contact June Bentham 01425 474035

RINGWOOD & HANGERSLEY WI

Meet on the third Thursday of each month at Crow WI hall Crow 7 pm for 7 30 start. Visitors are always welcome for more information contact cecileyrt@tiscali.co.uk.

GREYFRIARS BRIDGE CLUB

Meet at Greyfriars Wednesday pm for Rubber Bridge (1.30pm) and Friday eves for Duplicate Bridge (6.45pm). New members & visitors welcome. Phil 01202 379297

AVON VALLEY ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOCIETY

Meet at Ibsley Village Hall, BH24 3NP, on the 3rd Thursday each month at 7.30pm,September to May. www.avas.org.uk Contact Mark Vincent 01425 473677

RINGWOOD CAMERA CLUB

A very friendly club that meet on the 2nd & 4th Tuesday of the month at Ringwood Conservative Club. We welcome visitors and have a beginner's section. www.ringwoodcameraclub.co.uk or 01425 4826 6336 6

THE BRACKEN CO. OF ARCHERS

We are found on the grounds of Cranborne Middle School in E Dorset. We shoot on Sunday am, Tuesday & Thursday eve’s in the summer. In the winter, we also shoot indoors. www.dorsetarchery.co.uk

BRAESIDE BRIDGE CLUB

Duplicate Bridge played on Tuesday evenings 6.45 to 10pm at All Saints Church Hall, St Leonards. New members and visitors welcome. Mrs Marion Paris 01425 478241 or Jill Rix 01425 482747

FORDINGBRIDGE CHORAL SOCIETY

Rehearsals are held on Wednesday evenings in term time from 7.30pm9pm in the URC, Salisbury Street. New singers welcome. Contact our Secretary on: 01425 654372

ROTARY CLUB OF FORDINGBRIDGE

We meet at 6.30pm/7pm on Tuesdays every week at Avonway We like to make a difference to the lives of others. For information on joining us call: Colin Ritchie on 01425 655877

BISTERNE VILLAGE HALL FOR HIRE charity no. 301747

Refurbished and available for hire for private parties, Clubs, Meetings, Organised functions. Entertainment Licence for 100 people. Hire charges are from £7 per hour. Call: 01425 476703

RINGWOOD CHESS CLUB

Meets Monday evenings at Original White Hart, High St., Ringwood ,BH24 1AW. Teams in Bournemouth & Southampton Leagues Contact : malcolmd@m4me.co.uk 01425 838009

RINGWOOD ANTIQUES CLUB

Greyfriars Community Centre, 4th Wednesday of the month at 7.00pm for 7.30pm. New members & visitors welcome Membership and programme details 01425 471348

RINGWOOD & FORDINGBRIDGE LIONS CLUB

Meet on the 2nd Thursday each month at 7.45 for 8pm at The Elm Tree pub, Hightown Road, Ringwood. Contact Lion Martin Riseam at: martin.riseam@mac.com –01425 472181 www.ringwoodandfordingbridgelions.org.uk

AVON W I

Meet on the 2nd Monday of each month at 7pm at United Reformed Church Hall, Salisbury Street. (No meetings in August) Monthly speaker/activities/discussions. Contact Anne on 01425 655192

RINGWOOD AND DISTRICT EX-TABLERS CLUB.

An active and friendly group of ex-Round Tablers (41-Clubbers).We have a busy and varied Social Programme with a monthly dinner meeting on the third Tuesday. For more info call Ian Stockdale on 07930 340624 or visit www.ringwood-extablers.org

ASHLEY HEATH WI

Meet monthly 2nd Tuesday at Braeside Village Hall at 2.30pm-4pm. Contact: Elizabeth Layet President 01425 478884 or Geraldine Bowles Secretary 01202 871251

TRADITIONAL AIKIDO CLUB Hyde,Fordingbridge

Thurs day 8 - 10.30pm, Sat 9-1pm Also Salisbury Tues eve - Sun am. Physicalandspiritualdevelopment. Selfdefenceandweapons training. 20yrsexp.4thdanQualifiedinstructor.All ages.

ContactJohn01425655194 www.takemusu.co.uk

FREEDOM YOUTH CLUB

Friday's (1st & 3rd) 3.30 - 5.00pm for children aged 8 to 11. Wednesday's(2nd&4th)6.00-8.00pmforchildrenaged10+ £1persessi onplus tuckshop Rearof StLeonardsVillageHall Phone Clementineon07757975239

TWO BRIDGES CARE GROUP

We care for the needs of those who are infirm, young or old, & without transport.Ourvolunteerswill driveyoutomedicalappointments& sometimes take you shopping. Call:“Sandleheath&Fordingbridge 0845 385902” and, for more info, call 01425 652527 or 01425650770

WIGGLE & GIGGLE GROUP

Meet at The Victoria Rooms FORDINGBRIDGE . 1st and 3rd Thursday ofeachmonth3.00pm-4.30pm forbabiesandlittle onestoaround 3yrs.ContactNLCCforfurtherinformationon 07909711886

FORDINGBRIDGE BRIDGE CLUB

Our friendly club meets from 7 to 10pm on Tues days every week at AvonwayCommunityCentre,36ShaftesburySt, Fordingbridge. 1st&3rdweeks: Rubber.2nd&4thweeks: Duplicate Fordetailscall SueHughes01425 657795

Last Monday of the month (not July & Aug) at The West Room,Avonway CommunityCentre, ShaftesburySt., Fordingbridge7.30pm. Contact: DavidMelbourne01425655235orvisitwww.fanddhs.org.uk

RINGWOOD ROTARY CLUB

Meet every Tuesday, 1st & 3rd at 6.15pm: 2nd & 4th at 12.45pm at The GreyfriarsCentre(If5thTues daycall fordetails). Contact the Secretary:TimMoxey01425 470880orwww.ringwoodrotary.org

FRIENDS OF FORDINGBRIDGE HOSPITAL

We raise money to provide extras & equipment. New mem bers and helperswelcomeatour2main annualfundraisingeventsalso volunteerstojointheteamservingmorningcoffee topatients. Contact: Lynette Stanford, 01425 657650 lynette_stanford@btinternet.com

ANGLO ITALIAN SOCIETY

Meet at Greyfriars Comm unity Centre on 1s t Monday evening of the monthforillustratedtalksINENGLISHonavarietyofItaliantopics Contact:Hazel on01425476091

RINGWOOD FRENCH CLUB

Come and join our French Coffee Mornings every Tuesday 10am-11am at TrinityChurchCentre,Ringwood.All abilitieswelcome, c onversation group,no exams.Nomembershiprequired. AlainJourdan,01202 423318 or info@frenchmatters.net.

HURN ROCK AND ROLL CLUB

Every Sunday evening 7.30pm to 10.30pm at The Hurn Bridge S ports ClubBH236DYBeginnersWelcome. Contact:Alan01202699022

LONGWATER TAI CHI

Monday classes in Avonway Comm unity Centre, Shafts bury Street, Fordingbridge.TaiChi“HealthforLife”Drop-in11am-12.15pm Contact:PatrickFoleyorJaneLaunchbury01725514546 office@longwatertaichi.co.uk.

RINGWOOD U3A areasmall and friendlygroupforthoseno longer in full time employment to enjoy social and educational activities.Monthlymeetingswitharangeofspeakersevery3 rd Thursday from 2 to 4pm at Greyfriars Community Centre. Visitors are always welcome( £2).www.ringwoodu3a.org.ukor callPete–01425478077.

Oddfellows is one of the oldest and friendliest societies in the world. Forfurtherdetails ContactFloMunro01202820965, LoyalAcorn Lodge. The Oddfellows - making friends, helping people.

ITALIAN LANGUAGE CAFE

Our friendly group meets every Thursday 3 to 4pm, upstairs at Nava Cafe, High Street, Ringwood. We enjoy trying to chat in Italian over a cup of coffee. Not a formal lesson, just an informal fun way of trying to converse in Italian! Contact Bobbie Dawson 07903 184545 for further details. A warm welcome awaits you!

A Design for Life… e Kevin McCloud Column

Designer, writer and television presenter, Kevin McCloud leapt into our consciousness with his vastly successful Grand Designs show on Channel 4. This month, the affable architectural business owner talks about how we keep our homes, from the tidy to the cluttered, and everything in between.

I was reminded recently of a comment I’d made some time ago about the way humans, more than any other living thing, can find equal comfort in both chaos and in order, and this, of course, is not better seen than in our homes.

The home is a unique manifestation of our personal identity, a physical embodiment of the narratives we construct about who we are and how we live. A home is the backdrop to your life. It’s not simply a space, but a stage where our lives unfold.

So when it comes to tidiness, I believe in a balanced approach. Perfection is, after all, the enemy of the good.

Yes, a certain level of order can create a sense of calm and control – it can make a home more functional and efficient; but let’s not forget that homes are for living, not just for looking at.

A spotless, clutter-free house might be pleasing to the eye, but it can also feel cold and impersonal. A home that’s too tidy, too ‘perfect’, can paradoxically become uncomfortable. It can start to feel like a museum, where you’re afraid to touch anything for fear of leaving a mark.

On the other hand, a home where every item has a story to tell, where there’s a bit of controlled chaos, can feel warm and welcoming. It’s a

place where you can truly relax, be yourself, and live your life without constantly worrying about maintaining an unrealistic standard of neatness.

That’s not to say that we should all live in disarray. There’s a difference between a lived-in home and a messy one. Good homekeeping, in my view, is about finding the right balance. It’s about creating a space that reflects who you are and supports the life you want to live.

So by all means, keep your home tidy, but don’t strive for perfection. Don’t be afraid to let it show signs of life, and embrace the imperfections whilst celebrating the little bits of chaos. Remember that a home is not just a space, but a stage for your life. And life is not a tidy, predictable affair. It’s a grand, messy, complex, beautiful design of its own.

Bare Necessities

Remix your beauty routine for the warmer months to create a fuss-free, gorgeous summer glow.

As the weather warms up it’s worth swapping out certain aspects of your cosmetic armoury to keep your warpaint as smoking-hot as the sun.

First base

Be sure to cleanse skin thoroughly before applying a light, gel-based moisturiser. This will lock in hydration and prepare your skin for the next layer.

While some foundations boast sun protection, the general consensus is that a separate SPF (of at least 30) and foundation is more effective.

Keep it light

Avoid heavy foundations and opt for a tinted moisturiser or BB cream instead, preferably applied using your fingertips or a makeup sponge for a natural finish.

If you have any blemishes or dark circles, use a concealer

to spottreat those areas and if you suffer from rosacea invest in a good camouflage cream – often these appear green and then change to match your skin tone.

Beautify your brows

As is often the case, things that look effortless often require more prep-work than one might expect.

With eyebrows this means ensuring that the outer lines are clean and that their shape complements your face. Paradoxically, shaping brows can actually make them appear fuller.

Don’t miss out mascara

A coat of mascara can instantly make your eyes look brighter and more awake. Opt for a waterproof formula if you plan on spending time in the water or sweating and use a lash curler beforehand to give your lashes an extra boost.

Dewy does it

When it comes to blushers and highlighters, look for a gel or cream based formula. This will

enhance your natural glow and stop your skin from looking cakey or dry. A little bronzer will also add to your summer glow, just be sparing with it.

Love your lips

Sometimes it seems we hydrate and nourish every inch of our bodies except our lips. So when it gets warmer, make sure you apply lots of lip balm and if possible, one that has SPF included.

If you want a hint of colour, go for a tinted balm or cream-based lipstick.

Spritz it up

A spritz of setting spray after you’ve applied your makeup will stop it from shifting/ melting during the day.

Hydrate

Regardless of what you slap on the outside, a dehydrated body will always lead to drier skin, so drink up your water for glow that starts within.

Survey Suggests Two Thirds Of Britons Have Never Had A Routine Hearing Test

A recent UK survey suggests that 65% of people in the UK have never gone for a routine hearing test. And 68% admitted having experienced symptoms that could indicate hearing dif culties! In the survey 80% of respondents would seek treatment within a few days for ailments such as u-like symptoms, aches and pains, lumps or a rash. This compares to just 55% who would seek treatment in the same amount of time when it came to their hearing.

Reasons given for not having a hearing test were:

• 39% thought their symptoms of hearing loss weren’t a problem they needed to worry about

• 19% thought they were overreacting

• 13% thought they were too young to experience them.

• Nearly 28% were unaware that the longer they waited to have their hearing problem sorted, the worse their hearing would get.

12 million people suffer with hearing loss across the UK, yet many people continue to ignore the symptoms.

The World Health Organisation reminds us that 60% of hearing cases can be addressed through primary care.

It is important to have your hearing checked if you notice any changes in your hearing, regardless of your age - most of the time hearing loss happens gradually, making it harder to notice that you’re not hearing as well as you used to.

If you have ringing in your ears, mishear what people around you are saying, ask people to repeat themselves on a regular basis or nd it hard to keep up with conversations you should arrange to have your hearing tested.

We offer this service free of charge - call us today on 01202 985500

Visit our website at: www.2countyhearing.co.uk

The Adventures of Daichi

The Modern Magazines Camper Van

Steeped in history, decorum, excitement and sheer style, Royal Ascot has become a wonderful tradition with us ‘four girls’. Myself, Mel, Julie and my sister Sue set off for the most famous racecourse on the planet (in my humble opinion) all dressed up with somewhere to go. This year we were all adorned in dresses enveloped in flowers. I wore a rather flamboyant burgundy / pink hat, Mel wore a lovely cream one, looking very pretty and the Julie and Sue looked very debonair in their fascinators. We were set to party.

Did you know, in the Royal Enclosure fascinators are not allowed and that in fact only hats or hatinators, which have a solid base of at least 4 inches are acceptable? For the men in the Royal Enclosure no cravats, bow ties or neckerchiefs are allowed and they must dress in black, navy or grey. Not being of high society myself I rather like our etiquettes and disciplines, but not everyone would agree of course. Personally, I think we should embrace different views, ideas and customs without the need to criticise. Differences are what create us and make us what we are. Of course, not being of Royal blood, or having a personal invitation (now there is a thought…) … these rules were

not for me. I can dream about that, though, can’t I?

We did have tickets for the Queen Anne Enclosure though, just one step down from the Royal one. How exciting! The weather was very warm and sunny, which always helps on a day like this. The four of us were in great spirits, all prepared to soak in the day, relaxed and ready to have a ‘flutter’ on the horses. We started with a delicious coffee and a pizza at one of the well adorned seating areas and even had a table to eat at. Looking avidly at the race cards, to see how many thousands we could win that day, we were in full swing. I know nothing about racing, though my grandfather was a keen enthusiast and spent every Saturday glued to the TV having put on a bet or two… or three… My uncle, Grandad’s son, had even run away from home at a very early age and became a jockey up in Newmarket, but we rarely saw him, so I had no tips from him unfortunately. With only the names of the horses to go on, and a ‘gut feeling’, that was how I chose my four winning bets! Yes four.

The four of us!

Our King and Queen

One winner, two thirds and a fourth that also paid up. I was quids in! Sue had gotten Dad to study the horses for us, so he had given her two ideas for each race. Much to her dismay she kept picking the wrong one! Well, it is part of the fun and as long as you are not throwing away thousands, it all adds to the thrill of the race and the fun of the day. Mel did really well too. She has a horsing background, having owned a horse of her own in her younger days, and now her daughter Abby owns an exracehorse too, ‘Mully’ who is self-determined at times, but well looked after in his retiring years. Mel had studied the horses and jockeys and made some great choices!

I hear the King did well too and won his first race as an owner. Good job. I do remember the sheer delight of our late Queen’s face when she won at Royal Ascot, which the photos showed so well. I am sure she was there, that day, in spirit. We did wave to our wonderful new King and his lovely Queen, as well as a very radiant Kate all beautified in red, sedately sitting next to her handsome Prince. Dame Judi Dench was also seated in a carriage behind them and there was a big cheer for her too. I was situated right next to the barrier at the parade ring. We were there well before we needed to be

of course, all thrilled with anticipation of seeing our Royal arrivals. Having my phone out for a good 15 minutes, all posed and ready to press play, seconds before our well anticipated dignitaries arrived, my phone’s screen suddenly went bright red with a huge EMERGENCY written across it! Panic! I had held the phone so long in the sun, it was totally overheated. Far too much excitement obviously. The good thing about having great friends is that they understand you and don’t question you. Mel was standing behind me. “Give me your phone!” I yelled out. Very calmly and composed of course… What a laugh… Mel handed me her phone immediately and a happy ending was concluded - I have fantastic photos to prove we were there… and to remember our amazing day together. Oh what fun. We need days like this to bring us together, forget any troubles, let our hair down and have some pleasure. Royal Ascot is truly an amazing day out. Mel is taking her Mum to another day at Ascot, where again ‘dressing up’ is essential. So… we don’t have to wait another year… there is a thought. Daichi was thrilled we had such a great day out. This summer we will have to see where, of all the many places he could take us, he will decide to go. You will see in the next issue of your local community magazine of course. He loves to tell you about great days out. Have a wonderful ‘peak season’!

By Debbie Corney

Kate and her Prince

Dumbledore Vets Join Dog Friendly Clinic Scheme

Independent family-owned veterinary practice, Dumbledore Vets, has become one of the first UK veterinary practices to join the Dogs Trust and the British Veterinary Behaviour Association (BVBA) Dog Friendly Clinic Scheme. Practice staff have demonstrated advanced behaviour knowledge, offer socialisation visits for nervous dogs and the premises have been designed to support low-stress visits to the vet.

Rachel Casey, Head of Canine Behaviour and Research at Dogs Trust said: “Veterinary care is an essential part of dogs’ lives, but some find visits to the vets stressful. We are very pleased to collaborate with the BVBA to create the Dog Friendly Clinic scheme to help veterinary practices embed the principles of behavioural medicine into clinic life. Vet clinics are at the forefront of recognising and preventing the development of problem behaviours in dogs, and this scheme will help them develop the skills and knowledge to optimise the wellbeing of the dogs in their care.”

Chris Laurence, Chair of BVBA said: welfare-friendly treatment of dogs in veterinary

practices is one of our primary objectives so every additional practice means many more dogs will benefit. We’re delighted that Dumbledore Vets has joined our dog friendly community. By doing so, they are helping ensure every dog has as positive an experience as possible within their clinic. “

Dumbledore Vets, owned by Katy Dalton MRCVS and Leanne Willshire RVN, opened in Three Legged Cross in late 2022 with hospitalisation and surgical facilities on site. Care is provided by an experienced local team, with an extensive background of experience including behavioural medicine, senior pet care, farm animal pet species, and pet travel.

Greenfingers… The Alan Titchmarsh Column

He’s a brilliant presenter, accomplished gardener, talented novelist, and all-round horticultural inspiration.

is month, Alan Titchmarsh discusses the maintenance of pathways and walkways in our gardens.

It’s only right we spend so long obsessing over the green spaces in our garden, and at the heart of that is plants, flowers and, of course, a gorgeous, lush, green lawn.

Yet there is many a beautiful baize spoiled by the constant plodding of human feet, and when the colder, rainier months come around, that gentle path leading to the shed can rapidly come to resemble a muddy mess.

at’s why providing a practical route for people to be able move through a garden is so important. Paths and walkways obviously serve a practical function in providing safe and easy access to the decorated corners of your garden,

whilst also o ering a visual and aesthetic element, guiding the eye, o ering a contrast between natural and manmade materials, whilst creating, as well, an invitation to explore.

Maintaining a pathway, or perhaps even a larger paved area, almost always means turning to concrete. It is hard-wearing, inexpensive and versatile, while in terms of durability you’ll struggle to find anything be er. Yet for those who want a look that’s more natural or rustic, use something like gravel, wood or natural stone. ese materials can create a so er, more organic look that blends in well with the surrounding landscape.

Either way, focus on colour and texture. Look at the other shades in your garden and try to match tones; also mimic shapes in flowers and plants by selecting concrete elements that are styled and intricately designed, focusing on curves, lines and detail.

In terms of laying a path, plan every stone before you start, aiming for flow, perspective and a pa ern that guides the eye. Ensure the ground you are laying the path on is well drained, and while the temptation is to lay each slab level, you may want to factor in a slight tilt so that rainwater

runs o it rather than pooling on top.

Finally, when laid, gravel or mulch around the sides of the path will hold it in place and allow it to so en as it naturalises with your garden.

As the years go by, regular cleaning and repairs will keep your path in optimum condition. Jet washing is a great way of bringing it back to life.

Ultimately, while concrete o en carries with it an unsteady reputation as far as our gardens are concerned, we’d be stuck without it!

HELP YOUR LAWN TO THRIVE, NOT JUST SURVIVE

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STAR GAZING

WRITTEN BY KATE EARL kateearlastro@gmail.com

Welcome to the August Stargazing Page. Highlights this month include the annual Perseid Meteor shower, and the Moon close to Saturn.

International Space Station

The ISS is visible every morning after the 24th, just before sunrise. To establish exact timings please refer to www.heavens-above.com or a similar webpage for up-to-date information, remembering to set the location to your observing area.

Events

The annual Perseid Meteor shower, famous for its bright fireballs and persistent trains, reaches its peak on the night of the 12th. Fortunately, the Moon doesn’t rise until 1am this year, so if the clouds stay away this is a great opportunity to spot some ‘shooting stars’. These aren’t stars at all, but sand-grain sized particles which burn up upon entering our atmosphere, left over from the debris shed by Comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle. Grab a warm drink, coat and a blanket and see what you can spot. Although the radiant for the shower is towards the northeast, the meteors can appear to come from any direction in the sky. If you have binoculars handy, use them to spot the trails left over from some of the brighter meteors; these often remain visible for a minute or so after the main flash has happened.

Mercury

The innermost planet can’t be seen easily with the unaided eye this month as it appears too close to the Sun.

Venus

Venus has now left our evening skies, and from the last week in August it becomes the morning star, where it will remain until February 2024. The Greeks gave Venus the name Eosphorus, or Phosphorus when it appeared in the morning sky, and Hesperus when it shone as the evening star. They did not realise that these two objects were actually one and the same planetary body.

Mars

Mars is lost in the Sun’s glare this month.

Jupiter & Saturn

Saturn steals the show this month, already climbing high in the southeast by 11pm. It is visible just above a near-full Moon on the 30th (see figure). To spot it, try and blot out the light from the Moon with your hand and hunt for Saturn just to the upper right of it. Late in the August evenings, Jupiter becomes visible low in the northeast and is dazzlingly bright as it rises higher in the sky.

Moon

There are two full moons this month, one on the 1st August, and one on the 31st.

Star of the month

Vega, the fifth brightest star in the sky, represents one of the corners that make up the Summer Triangle asterism which is high in the sky during August (see figure). Due to precession, it was the North Pole Star around 14,000 years ago, and our ancestors most likely used it for navigation purposes across Europe. Vega has many ‘firsts’ for a star; it was first to be photographed and was the first to be analysed with a spectrometer to reveal its absorption lines. It was also the first star found to have a disk of dust surrounding it. It rotates really quickly; if it were to spin much faster it would rip itself apart.

Trust emphasises importance of nutrient scheme to protect our water from pollution

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust (HIWWT) has highlighted the crucial role of Nutrient Neutrality schemes in protecting the region’s waterways from yet more pollution.

Debbie Tann, Chief Executive of HIWWT, was speaking after reports emerged that the Government was considering scrapping a key policy designed to mitigate the environmental impact of new developments amid claims it was blocking new houses being built.

Natural England’s Nutrient Neutrality rule ensures that developments in designated areas such as the Solent region can be approved once suitable measures are in place to counteract an increase in pollution of our rivers.

Nitrate pollution is caused by various factors including sewage systems, so waste water produced by new housing contributes to the general deterioration of water quality which is harmful to fish species, plant life and humans.

Tann said: “We are very concerned that the Government is reportedly considering removing or changing the Nutrient

Neutrality requirement for new developments.”

“Our precious rivers and coastal areas are facing untenable levels of pollution from agriculture, industry and domestic waste, with 82% failing to reach good ecological status. We must have robust measures in place to start tackling this critical issue.”

“Through our Nutrient Neutrality schemes, we have already proven a costeffective way to unlock housebuilding while also mitigating the environmental impact of new developments – and those methods have the added benefit of helping people, communities and nature too.”

In the Solent area, HIWWT has worked with developers, local government and regulators to develop an effective and affordable nature-based solution that unlocks housebuilding while also reducing the environmental effects of new developments.

Councillor Seán Woodward, Executive Leader of Fareham Borough Council and Chairman of the Partnership for

South Hampshire, said: “My Council has and continues to work closely with HIWWT to deliver much needed new homes both in Fareham and across the Solent region which have the lowest possible environmental impact in terms of nutrient pollution.”

“We have brokered an agreement with the Trust which is now being adopted by councils across the area to bring about the rewilding of land which has been farmed intensively using high nutrient fertiliser application. This approach is having a dramatic effect in lowering pollution while freeing nutrient credits to allow the building of much needed new homes.”

“I hope the government will embrace this way forward as we are proud to be improving our marine environments which have been demonstrably harmed, mainly by excessive nutrient use in farming and undoubtedly by sewage discharges from polluting water treatment companies. The fines on these companies should be given to local councils to continue our work with the Trust in finding more land to rewild.”

“This approach is a truly ground-breaking example of a wildlife trust, planning authorities and developers working in harmony for the benefit of all.”

By rewilding unproductive land previously used for intensive agriculture, the Trust is reducing

the amount of nutrients ultimately reaching the Solent while also restoring habitats for wildlife and bringing additional environmental gains. The Trust’s first such project, at Wilder Little Duxmore on the Isle of Wight, has demonstrated the rapid and dramatic impact that this pioneering approach can have – with a 47% reduction in soil mineral nitrogen levels recorded in less than two years.

Tann added: “Those results are very significant for the fight against pollution here on the south coast.”

“We appreciate the need for new housing and believe that building homes in the right places is possible, but the impacts must be properly considered and addressed.”

“We know that development comes at a cost to our waterways, so the sensible approach is to make sure that this is balanced by appropriate and effective mitigation measures. We cannot simply wait for long-term promises of upgraded water treatment systems or changes to agricultural policy to counteract this. We’ve all got to play our part today in the transition to sustainable growth if we are going to give nature the chance to recover.”

Edd Kimber’s Olive Oil, Pistachio And Lemon Snack Cake

Delight your afternoon tea guests with this joyous one-tin bake from The Great British Bake Off’s first ever champ, Edd Kimber.

This simple pistachio cake is made in a food processor, so it takes just minutes to prepare, and the machine does all the heavy lifting for you. Serve it with a simple lemon and sugar glaze and sprinkle with a few roughly chopped pistachios and dried rose petals.

Ingredients

(10 to 12 servings)

For the cake

• 200ml olive oil, plus extra for greasing

• 140g shelled pistachios, plus a few extra for decoration

• 65g ground almonds

• 65g gluten-free plain flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1 tsp fine sea salt

• 200g caster sugar

• 4 large eggs

• Zest of 1 lemon

Method

For the glaze

• 200g icing sugar

• 2–3 tablespoons lemon juice

• Pinch of fine sea salt

• Chopped pistachios

• Dried rose petals

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C Fan/Gas mark 4. Lightly grease your 15x40cm baking tin and line with a strip

of parchment paper that overhangs the long sides, securing it in place with metal clips.

2. Place the pistachios in the bowl of a food processor fitted with the blade attachment and pulse until they are finely ground. Tip into a large bowl along with the ground almonds, flour, baking powder and salt and mix together.

3. Put the sugar, eggs and lemon zest in the processor bowl and process for about a minute. With the machine still running, slowly pour in the oil. Once fully combined, add the mixed dry ingredients and process for a second or two until evenly incorporated. Pour the batter into the prepared tin and spread evenly.

4. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until lightly browned and the

cake is set in the middle. Set aside to cool completely in the tin before using the parchment paper to lift it out.

5. For the glaze, mix the icing sugar, lemon juice and salt in a bowl until you have a thick but pourable paste. Pour it over the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. Sprinkle with a few extra chopped pistachios and dried rose petals to decorate.

Top tips

• To make this cake vegan, swap out the eggs with this alternative: 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed and 3 tablespoons of water for every chicken’s egg

• If stored in a sealed container, the cake should keep for 3–4 days

Beach Reads

For August, a selection of relaxing reads, perfect company for time spent relaxing on beach somewhere.

The Bookbinder of Jericho

by Pip Williams

Peggy has been told for most of her life that her job is to bind the books, not read them. Yet as she folds and gathers pages, her mind wanders to the opposite side of Walton Street, where the female students of Oxford’s Somerville College have a whole library at their fingertips.

None of This is True

by Lisa Jewell

Celebrating her 45th birthday at her local pub, popular podcaster Alix Summers crosses paths with an unassuming woman called Josie Fair. Josie, it turns out, is also celebrating her 45th birthday.

Josie has been listening to Alix’s podcasts and thinks she might be an interesting subject for her series, yet her life appears to be strange and complicated, and although Alix finds her unsettling, she can’t quite resist the temptation to keep making the podcast.

Yet as quickly as she arrived, Josie disappears. Only then does Alix discover she’s left a terrible and terrifying legacy in her wake…

Published by Cornerstone on July 20th

As war and illness reshape her world, her love for a Belgian soldier – and the responsibility that comes with it – threatens to hold her back.

The Bookbinder of Jericho becomes a story about knowledge, notably who creates it, who can access it, and what truths get lost in the process.

Published by Penguin Books on July 7th

Last Day of School

by Jack Sheffield

It’s 1987, and after a decade as head teacher at Ragley-on-theForest School, Jack Sheffield is looking to the future. He and his wife are expecting a new baby, the school is preparing for the introduction of the new National Curriculum, and the coming year promises a whole host of other surprises.

When Jack is offered an opportunity that could change everything, he knows he has a difficult decision to make.

Hilarious, nostalgic and heartwarming in equal measure, Last Day of School is the final novel in the much-loved Teacher series.

Published by Penguin Books on July 27th

Beach Rivals by

Georgie Tilney

When frustrated Clare sees a viral job advert for a three-month bookseller position on a Bali beach, she jumps at the chance.

She’s sharing the bookshop –and a flat – with a handsome but infuriating American man. Jack is Clare’s opposite in almost every way, and it’s not long before they’re driving each other crazy.

However, fighting with Jack is also the most fun Clare’s had in years, and it’s only a matter of time before their relationship turns less than professional...

Published by Penguin Books on July 20th

Recycling

www.hants.gov.uk

Somerley, Verwood Road, Ringwood 01202 828083

1 April - 30 Sept: 9am - 6pm

1 Oct - 28 Feb: 9am - 4pm

1 March - 31 March: 9am - 5pm

Doctors’ Numbers

Library Times

www.hants.gov.uk/library (closed Bank Holidays)

Christchurch Road, Ringwood, BH24 1DW

Roundhill, Fordingbridge, SP6 1AQ

Opening Hours:

Public Computer Network & Photocopier facilities

Citizens

e: advice@newforest.cabnet.org.uk

w: www.adviceguide.org.uk

USEFUL LOCAL PHONE NUMBERS

Police / Crime

Meeting House Hours

Mon, Tues, Thur, Fri, Sat 10am—12 noon

Wed 10am—2.30pm

Closed Sunday

/ Emergencies

Helplines

Chemist Opening Times

FORDINGBRIDGE Pharmacy, 01425 654539

22 High Street, Fordingbridge, SP6 1AX

Mon - Sat: 7.30am-10.30pm, Sun: 9am-7pm

Lloyds Pharmacy, 01425 474196

RINGWOOD HEALTH CENTRE , The Close

Mon - Fri: 8.30-6.30, Sat: 9-1

Lloyds Pharmacy, 01425 483643

Parkers Close,Gorley Road, Poulner

Mon - Fri: 9-6.30, Sat: 9-12.30

Boots, RINGWOOD 01425 474170

11 Southampton Road, Ringwood

Mon - Fri: 9-5:30, Sat: 9-5:30

Bretts Pharmacy, 01425 470982

ASHLEY HEATH High Street, Ashley Heath.

Mon - Fri: 9-5:30, Sat: 9-1

Boots, CASTLEPOINT 01202 549971 / 548139

Castlepoint, Bournemouth.

Mon - Fri: 9-8, Sat: 9-7, Sun: 10:30-4:30

Morrisons (in Store),VERWOOD 01202 826555

Chiltern Drive, Verwood

Mon - Fri: 9-1, 2-8, Sat: 9-1, 2-6, Sun: 10-1

Boots, FERNDOWN 01202 871841

Trickets Cross

-

9-7,

8.30-1, 2-5.30,

Ringwood Foodbank

The Wesley Centre, Christchurch Road, Ringwood. 01425 600134

Fri,11.30am—1.30pm

www.ringwood.foodbank.org.uk

Puzzle Page Answers

Quick Crossword Solution

#030

Answers:

Across: 5. Presenter, 8. Clef, 9. Upstairs, 10. Iceberg, 11. Beast,

13. Swarm, 15. Babysit, 18. Ostinati, 19. Acre, 20. Vegetables.

Down: 1. Prefab, 2. Estuary, 3. Angst, 4. Behave, 6. Clockwise, 7. Brasserie, 12. Magical, 14. Raider, 16. Yearly, 17. Bagel.

World Cup Trivia Answers

1. Argentina

2. Kylian Mbappe

3. 1966

4. 7

5. Uruguay

6. Brazil

7. Mexico – 25 losses

8. 1942 and 1946

9. 1991 10. The toughest group drawn.

Spot the difference solutions

Classic

Tuscany Blinds & Shutters Ltd has over 30 years experience supplying and installing blinds, shutters and awnings. A small fam ily owned business based in Bournemouth, we service homes and offices in Dorset and Hampshire. We offer a wide range of products, specialising in plantation shutters and patio coverings. At Tuscany Blinds & Shutters Ltd, we only source the best products, offering you classic and contemporary solutions for every taste.