The Swanage Oracle - February/March 2016

The Swanage The independent directory of local businesses serving the residents of Swanage, Studland Worth Matravers, Langton Matravers & Ulwell

Delivered FREE to all homes & businesses in the BH19 area

Oracle

February/March 2016

In this issue: Win a meal for two at the Bull & Boat Swanage Area Dementia Friendly Community Local Business Directory Purbeck District Council News Motoring: New Mazda MX-5 Dorset Wildlife Trust: Help us to record wildlife!

Martin Lewis: Bank Accounts Adventures of Nellie

Photo: Julian Sawyer

www.purbeckfootprints.co.uk

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Email: info@philiptrimcontractors.com

To advertise in The Swanage Oracle, please call: 01929 408080

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Doors-Windows-Locks Glass repairs & Sealed units replaced uPVC & Timber Windows & Doors supplied & fitted uPVC Fascia - Soffits - Gutters installed Locks Opened - Replaced - Upgraded Window restrictors & Child locks fitted Handles - Hinges - Letter Boxes Seals & Gaskets Replaced Snapped keys extracted

Tel: 01929 481496 Mobile: 07484 186617 Email: dwlocks@outlook.com FENSA - MTC - CRB checked 

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

    

  Please mention The Swanage Oracle when responding to adverts

Introduction

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The Swanage

Dear Swanage, Studland, Worth Matravers, Langton Matravers and Ulwell!

Edition 88

Wow what a busy couple of months we have had! You can read all about it with “The Adventures of Nellie” on pages 22 and 23. Have you made lots of New Year’s resolutions and are successfully carrying them out? I do hope so. 2016 is already well started, so did you decide to finally sort that space out once and for all, create a new bathroom, have a new carpet, change your hairstyle, see a new accountant or just have more meals out?

Whatever it is for you, we are here to help. If there is a company you would like to recommend to us, or a club that needs some extra support or recognition, then do tell them about us.

Oracle

Published by:

Stephen & Debbie Corney at Purbeck Publications

Telephone: 01929 408080 Email: info@swanageoracle.co.uk

Copy deadline for the April/May 2016 edition: 14th March 2016

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

The Swanage Oracle 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.

Proud members of

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

Myself, Stephen, Hayden and Nellie would like to Wish you All the Very Best for 2016! We very much appreciate the support you give to the magazine and the advertisers and we would like to thank you sincerely for that.

Here’s to a really enjoyable and fulfilling 2016!

Best Wishes,

Debbie & Stephen Corney Useful Numbers Local Police Southern Electricity Transco Gas Emergency Swanage Hospital

101 08457 708090 0800 111999 01929 422282

Train Enquires Wilts & Dorset Bus Wessex Water Emerg.

Purbeck Distict Council

08457 484950 01983 827005 0845 600 4600 01929 556561

To advertise in The Swanage Oracle, please call: 01929 408080

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Carpet & Flooring Specialists • Hardwood & Laminate Flooring • Carpet & Carpet Tiles • Wood Sanding & Restoration • Home selection service • Free quotes and advice Come and visit our showroom to see the ranges for yourself 1 Manor Park, 35 Willis Way, Poole, Dorset, BH15 3SZ Open 9am-5pm Mon-Fri

Tel: 01202 672222 Web: www.pnfl.co.uk Email: info@pnfl.co.uk 

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

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Community News

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Swanage Area Dementia Friendly Community Swanage Area Dementia Friendly Community was launched in May 2015 (National Dementia Week) at Swanage Library.

We started this project because we could see the need to help people with dementia and their carers in their daily lives to stay within the community.

We are supported by the Town Council, Swanage Medical Centre, Mental Health Team, P O P P, S w a n a g e R o t a r y, Swanage Lions, Swanage Library, Swanage Senior Forum and everyone who’s come to an awareness session and become a dementia friend.

We aim for Swanage to be a centre of excellence for understanding dementia – we want to give everyone confidence to feel part of the community. So we leafleted all businesses and shops offering free awareness sessions so interaction with customers and clients is more understanding.

We’ve now raised enough donations to enable us to set up a singing group and to start

training ‘buddies’ to help families and carers, Now we can focus on our biggest task-raising funding for an Admiral Nurse.

These are specialist dementia nurses who offer support to families who face challenges in understanding the condition, give skills to manage behaviours and give emotional and psychological support to carers to help them caring in difficult situations.

The cost initially is £100,000 but WE WILL DO IT FOR PURBECK! Support us wherever and whenever you can, small or large it will be great.

Contact Jean Gibbs (Chair) on 01929 425521 or via email at jeanswanage@yahoo.co.uk.

To advertise in The Swanage Oracle, please call: 01929 408080

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IDEAL SKIP HIRE Skips from 2 - 40yds SAND, GRAVEL HARDCORE, SHINGLE & TOP SOIL Available loose or in 25kg & 1 ton bags Delivery or collection

Trade & DIY Customers Welcome

A Fast, Friendly & Efficient Service

TEL: 01929 422980

CALIFORNIA BARN, SWANAGE

Weddings

accommodation

camping

functions room

The barn is ideal for a variety of uses. Holidays, events and group visits.

www.californiabarn.co.uk

tel. 01929 425049

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Community News

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Unwanted Christmas Gift appeal from local charity Lewis-Manning Hospice in Poole, which provides free care and support for people with cancer and other lifelimiting illnesses, is asking people to donate any unwanted Christmas gifts to its shops and to help with fundraising initiatives.

Maria Tidy, Fundraising Manager, said, “We are always in need of good quality items to use at our events throughout the year. So if you have any unwanted gift sets, vouchers, or chocolates or wine you are willing to donate, please send to the fundraising team.”

The hospice is also urging anyone who has any unwanted Christmas gifts, such as clothing, shoes, accessories, toys, games, books, DVDs, CDs, crockery, glassware and bakeware, to consider donating them to any of its seven hospice shops.

Paul Tucker, Communications Officer at the hospice, said, “We would really welcome any unwanted gifts for our shops and also remind people that if they are a UK tax payer, please ask about Gift Aid when donating as this adds 25 per cent to the value of their donations and therefore can have a significant impact on the amount we can raise for the hospice.”

The hospice provides free care services to over 700 people a year via their Day Hospice, Lymphoedema Clinic and Better Breathing Clinic,

and this year will complete the final phase of the opening of its bedrooms to operate 24/7 and provide end of life care as well as respite and rehabilitation.

Anyone who would like to donate any unwanted Christmas gifts should call the fundraising team on 01202 701 000.

For more information about supporting your local hospice, please contact them on 01202 708470 or visit their website at www.lewis-manning.co.uk for more information.

Collecting unwanted presents

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

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ADVERTISEMENT11

Cloudy2Clear Windows – Service With A Smile!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    

Boilers installed Full Central Heating Systems Boiler breakdowns and repairs Boiler servicing and maintenance Full breakdown & maintenance work

Georgian Gems Supporting musicians through The Michael James Music Trust

Established in 1981 in memory of the young organist and conductor Michael James BA, FRCO, to discover, promote, educate and support gifted young musicians.

Based in Wimborne Minster, the charity has its local representative as Brian Barker, proprietor of quaint and attractive Georgian Gems in Swanage High Street.

Since the Trust was established, over 550 students have been helped to reach their goals in the field of music.

Goals which they may not have otherwise achieved.

The Trust is funded by annual concerts, by donations and personal covenants or capital gifts. If you would like to support the Trust or find out more, please contact Brian.

Georgian Gems, 28 High Street Swanage, BH19 2NU

Tel: 01929 424697 www.georgiangems.co.uk

Verbal valuations £1 • Any item Proceeds to go to The Michael James Music Trust Reg. Charity no. 283943

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Wildlife News

Talking about Wildlife...

Help us to record wildlife!

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

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

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

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

Alert Fox

Photo: Steve Davis

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

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

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

By Sally Welbourne

To advertise in The Swanage Oracle, please call: 01929 408080

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CAMERAS WANTED

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

01202 862886 Please mention The Swanage Oracle when responding to adverts

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Money Saving Tips

Martin

LEWIS %DQN $FFRXQWV Fancy some free cash? Well, those generous bowler hatted ladies and gents at your bank are giving it away. Quite literally, they will to pay you up to £150 to switch bank account - and, as it can also improve the service and features, grab it.

The bank account switching market is red hot, with many banks willing to pay for your custom.

Here are some need-to-knows: Q. You’re talking about switching, but I’ve heard all types of horror stories?

Martin’s A: Much of that is a legacy opinion from a few years ago.

We’ve just celebrated the second birthday of what’s called ‘sevenday switching’, and that’s made the process easier. I did a poll of 100s of people on my Facebook page who’d tried it and 82% said they found it ‘easy and hassle-free’, while only 4% experienced problems.

In practice, when you apply for a new bank account, assuming you’re accepted, three things happen within seven working days: 1. All standing orders and direct debits are moved for you.

2. Your old account is closed.

3. All payments to your old account are auto-forwarded for three years.

Yet still far too few people try it – last year only 2% changed bank accounts – strange as my mailbag is full of people complaining about their banks. So my message is stop bitching and start switching.

Q. OK, so it’s easy, but what’s this about free money?

Martin’s A: Many of the challenger banks (those who want to break the dominance of the old ones) want you to switch to them so much they’re willing to pay you to do it.

There’s a full rundown and eligibility criteria at mse.me/bankaccounts.

But, in brief, here are the current top picks: • FirstDirect.co.uk gives switchers a free £100 (or more via some websites) – cash comes within 28 days of switching and paying in £1,000.

Other benefits: It’s won every customer service poll I’ve ever run, 92% rate it great, it has a linked 6% regular saver, 0% overdraft up to £250.

• Halifax.co.uk/Reward gives a free £100 within three working days of switching.

Other benefits: Pays £5 each month as long as you’re in credit.

• The marksandspencer.com current account gives a free £100 M&S gift card (or more via some websites), within a month of switching.

Other benefits: Unlike other accounts, you don’t have to pay in a set monthly amount (see next question) linked 6% regular saver, 0% overdraft up to £100.

Q. Can anyone get these?

Martin’s A: You’ll be credit scored to get these. Though most people who have an existing bank account should be fine (unless it’s a basic account).

Yet to get the bonuses, you normally need to use their switching service and have a couple of direct debits or standing orders set up.

Plus with First Direct, you must meet a minimum pay-in requirement, equivalent of £13,200 a year – effectively a way of requiring you to earn a set amount.

If you have irregular income, M&S is the only one not to demand this.

Q. Aren’t there also accounts that pay high interest on your savings?

Martin’s A: Yes that’s another form of competition, and if you have higher savings, that is likely to be more lucrative in the long run than grabbing the switchers bonuses.

The big one is the Santander.co.uk 123 account – it pays up to 3% cashback on certain household bills and up to 3% AER interest if you have between £3,000 - £20,000 in it. Its £24 a year fee is rising to £60 in January, yet if you’ve got over £5,000 savings and earn some cashback, it’s still likely you’re winner (full analysis of if it’s worth it in my www.mse.me/santanderfee blog) If you’ve less, the lloydsbank.com Club Lloyds pays 4% AER interest if you’ve £4,000 to £5,000 in it and both TSB.co.uk and Nationwide. co.uk pay 5%, but only on up to £2,000 with TSB and £2,500 with Nationwide for the first year.

Q. Once I’ve switched and got the free bonus, can I switch again to another bank account?

Martin’s A: Yes, there’s nothing stopping you continually switching.

But remember, you’ll be credit scored every time you open a bank account, so try to minimise opening too many accounts in a short space of time, especially if you’re going to be applying for credit in the near future, like a mortgage.

Q. I hate banks - are there any other options?

Nationwide, as mentioned above, is a building society, so it’s owned by its members, and it’s got decent offers. Or see if your local credit union (a local savings and loans co-op) is one of 500 that offer bank accounts via ABCUL at findyourcreditunion.co.uk Q. I’m often in the red – can I switch to a 0% overdraft?

An overdraft’s a debt like any other, so if you often go into it, cutting its cost makes it easier to clear. FirstDirect.com has a £250 0% overdraft, and you can put the £125 it pays switchers towards clearing the overdraft too – a big boon. Nationwide.co.uk/flexdirect may give a bigger 0% overdraft, credit score depending, but only for a year. It’s 50p/day after, so aim to clear it before then.

@MoneySavingExpert

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10 YEAR CELEBRATION Philip, Lyn and the team would like to thank all their loyal clients for all their support over the last 10 years.

At Philip Mills our top priority is education.

Our team regularly go on courses to London studios to keep up with the very latest fashions and techniques.

We also have in-salon training nights every Thursday from 4pm - 7pm.

If you want a great haircut or colour on training night, book in now as cuts are only £10 and colour are from £15, and training is fully supervised.

We train our team to work with face shape, skin tone and eye colouring, which gives a greater understanding in designing hair for the individual.

This enables us to practise new techniques and keep our team focussed on providing an excellent service.

Madeline is offering an introductory 15% discount on all wash, cut & blowdrys in February & March.

So, we now have a ‘three tier price list’ to suit all clients.

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Puzzle Corner

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Pop the kettle on...

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Crossword

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

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

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

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Lucy’s recipe corner

Coconut and lemon slices Those with a sweet tooth will enjoy these delicate sliced cakes.

INGREDIENTS

2 packets of shortbread biscuits (200g) 1 tin of condensed milk (400g) 2 cups of coconut 125g butter 1 finely grated lemon rind 3tbsp lemon juice 2 cups of icing sugar 30g butter

Butter a 20cm x 30cm tin. Crush the biscuits either with a processor or in a bag with a roller.

Place the biscuits, coconut, lemon rind and condensed milk into a large bowl.

Melt the butter and add to the bowl mixing well.

Press the mixture into the buttered tray.

In a clean bowl, sift the icing sugar and stir in the butter. Add the lemon juice gradually until the icing becomes smooth and spreadable.

Spread the icing over the slice.

Pop in the fridge and then cut into small squares.

Store in the fridge and enjoy with a cup of tea!

Purbeck Railway Circle Friday 11th March 2016 “The End of the Line” - A presentation commemorating the 50th anniversary of the closure of the Somerset & Dorset Railway by Mike Beale of the Somerset & Dorset Railway Trust.

Friday 8th April 2016 “Baie de Somme Railway” - A presentation by Michael Bunn concerning France’s most successful and interesting steam tourist railway Harmans Cross Village Hall, Haycrafts Lane, Harmans Cross. 7.00 for 7.30pm EVERYONE WELCOME For more information please phone

01929 554765

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What’s On

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I T’S ALL CHILDS P LAY Stick Tricks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Combine with acorns and other seedpods to create mini animals.

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

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

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

Sue Gascoyne

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

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Adventures of Nellie

22

The Adventures of Nellie The Purbeck Publications Camper Van Well I can safely say that Nellie is a girl of many talents and many personalities (isn’t that true of all of us girls?) She has been a café, a place of retreat, a limousine, a bedroom, a kitchen, a reading room, a changing room, a bus for the boys, an office, a bargain hunter and even Santa’s sleigh! She has certainly been in her element these last couple of months and kept us very busy!

In December she drove us in style to Wareham, to the famous “Old Granary” next to the River. Nellie was all dressed up in lights, with her very own lit up snowman and even a Christmas tree inside! I had bought her some extra lights (as she had been a good girl), but to my horror they flashed blue and red! I know Nellie is a woman of many personalities, but she could be “done” for impersonating a police woman!

They had to go... and we did laugh.

Here at the River Frome we often feed the ducks, like many others in the summer, but I have to say the cold night air was not conducive to us, or

Nellie & friends on the ghost walk in Poole

Debbie with Nellie on Wareham Quay

the ducks that night! Nellie was rather disappointed. She had taken us to a Christmas meal which was delicious and funnily enough I had duck as opposed to the traditional choice. You don’t think it was one of those we fed earlier in the year do you? Anyway we were well entertained by a local brass band and we had excellent company, with friends from local businesses in Wareham. A very good evening all round! Nellie got us home in good time, much to Hayden’s chagrin, who was staying at Aunty Sue’s. At the age of twelve, it was way too early for him...

I have to say that the highlight of December was “Granny Cousins Ghost Walk of Old Town Poole”. Why Nellie decided to take us around Poole on a cold winter’s evening is questionable but ladies do sometimes have the oddest of ideas at times... as most men will tell you. Michele O’Brien who took Nellie and 15 more of us for this haunting walk is delightful! She combines her experience in theatre,

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23

dance, storytelling, pre-school work and choreography to guide you on a fascinating, if at times scary look at our old fishing port. Nellie was indeed scared, in fact she jumped a few times as Granny Cousins screamed out as if possessed by a bygone figure. Poole has a lot of history and it was intriguing to hear all the different stories. The walk starts at Scaplen’s Court which has the smallest doors in town! Boy have we grown since those times. There is no way Nellie would get in.

Previously known as The George Inn during the Civil War it possibly housed Parliamentary troops. I bet the walls could tell a story or two! Certainly the story of Agnes Beard, the maid who was murdered there, sent a chill down Nellie’s chassis. A little further on near The King Charles Pub there is a tiny gaol, which was arresting...

The pub itself has a story of a young girl who fell in love with a sailor. The night he was to return there was a huge storm and many ships capsized leaving their poor crew to battle against the cold, dark waters. The lover did not return and sure he was dead, the young maiden hung herself from the rafters of the pub... (Did you really want to hear this?) No time later the handsome

Nellie with her Xmas lights on!

Michele O’Brien as Granny Cousins

young sailor returned, to find his true love was gone. It is said that she can still be seen from time to time in the roof room of The King Charles. I am sure for those who want to believe, this could be true. For Nellie she decided it was a very sad story and wondered if she would ever find her true love.... Does anyone know of a single campervan who could be attracted to a rather more mature, somewhat overweight lady of many talents who has some strange ideas at times? … Anyway, back to the evening which really was rather good.

The sky was clear, there was little wind and despite heavy rain earlier in the day, there was not a drop in sight. It was perfect for a spine chilling evening. If you want to contact Michele and learn lots about Poole and its spellbinding history I am sure she would love to hear from you. You can contact Michele on 07977 969080 or look at her website which is www.micheleobrien.co.uk. Do mention Nellie if you talk to her!

Nellie would like to wish you all a fantastic, fun and fulfilling 2016! She is looking forward to telling you more about her exploits in the next issue of The Swanage Oracle.

Where will she take us next…?

By Debbie Corney

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24

Consumer Tips

James

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The Swanage Oracle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This month, the prize is a meal for two at the Bull & Boat in Swanage, so please complete this page by 5th March 2016 and send to: Feb/Mar Prize Wordsearch Name: ______________________ The Swanage Oracle, Address: ______________________ 1 Moorlands Rise, ______________________ West Moors, ______________________ Ferndown, BH22 0JR Telephone: ______________________

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Gardening Tips

26

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

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

Jobs for February:-

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Plant of the month Tomato

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

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28

Motoring

Auto Biographies

All-New Mazda MX-5

By Tim Barnes-Clay, www.carwriteups.co.uk The all-new Mazda MX-5 rocks. It really does.

And it’s not just me that thinks it - the awesome sports car has already been named Roadster of the Year in Britain.

But why does the MX-5 rock? And why is it awesome? Well, quite simply, the car is a brand icon. It is brilliant fun to drive – and that has been the case in all of its incarnations over the last 25 years.

Having made its British debut at the 2015 Goodwood Festival of Speed, the all-new fourth-generation Mazda MX-5 has an excellent power to weight ratio, rear-wheel drive, perfect 50:50 weight distribution and more comfort and tech than ever before.

The MX-5 is offered with a choice of two petrol engines, and with nine models across five trim levels, the mighty yet minute Mazda looks already set to repeat the Japanese motor manufacturer’s influence within the reasonably priced sports car sector.

Maintaining the driver-focused nature that has made the MX-5 the best-selling two-seater sports car of all time, it is obvious the engineering philosophy behind the up-to-the-minute model has allowed Mazda to retain the dexterity, enjoyment and engagement that has always characterised it.

The lightest MX-5 since the celebrated original, the fresh car is shorter, lower and wider than the outgoing one, with the smallest overhangs and lowest centre of gravity yet. These dynamic proportions combined with Mazda’s KODO: Soul of Motion design values ensure that the model’s styling reflects its emphasis on driving pleasure in an unmistakably contemporary and energetic way.

Featuring Mazda’s award-winning SKYACTIV technology, the MX5’s ultra-efficient lightweight petrol powered engines deliver new heights of performance and economy. Across the line-up the MX-5 features alloy wheels, LED headlights, a leather steering wheel, as well as a light and sleek fabric hood.

SE-L models add LED daytime running lights, climate control airconditioning, DAB radio, Bluetooth and cruise control, plus Mazda’s connectivity and infotainment system with seven-inch colour touchscreen display and Multimedia Commander. SE-L models with the 2.0-litre 160ps engine are distinguished by 17-inch Gunmetal alloy wheels and piano black door mirrors, and benefit from a strut tower bar and limited slip differential.

Step up to Sport trim and both the 1.5 and 2.0-litre cars feature rain sensing wipers, rear parking sensors, smart keyless entry, Premium Bose Surround-Sound and heated leather seats. With the 1.5-litre engine, Sport trim MX-5’s come with 16-inch Gunmetal alloy wheels and piano black door mirrors. Sport models with the 2.0-litre 160ps engine benefit from a dynamic set-up that includes Sports suspension featuring Bilstein dampers, a limited slip differential and strut tower bar, while visually, they are marked out by their 17-inch Bright alloy wheels and body coloured mirrors.

But perhaps the most amazing aspect of the MX-5 is that when the original model was launched in 1990, it cost £14,249 (equal to £31,687 in today’s money), yet quarter of a century later with far more standard equipment, the all-new Mazda MX-5 costs from £18,495. This means, more than ever, the car sets the benchmark as the one of the world’s best and most affordable sports cars.

Indeed, it seems with its lightweight design, cool cabin, exquisitely engineered mechanicals and balanced handling the all-new Mazda MX-5 is ready to further boost its place in the hearts of automotive aficionados.

Pros ‘n’ Cons • Fun √ • Handling √ • Looks √ • Equiment √ • Limited Room X

Fast Facts (2.0l 160ps) • Max speed: 133mph • 0-62 mph: 7.3 secs • Combined mpg: 40.9 • Engine: 1998cc 4cyl 16v petrol • CO2: 161 g/km • Price: £18,495-£23,295

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All the Furniture you Need for your Home

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Purbeck Chess Club

Purbeck Chess Club was formed eleven years ago to provide the opportunity for those who enjoy a game of chess to meet in friendly surroundings. We currently meet on a Monday evening between 7pm and 10pm from September to May at Mortons House Hotel, Corfe Castle.

We are always looking for new members and give a warm welcome to everyone whether old or young, male or female and of whatever standard. It may be you last played chess at school many years ago or perhaps you have never played but would like to learn. We have many players who are willing to teach or coach and provide encouragement. Whatever your standard you will always find someone of your own ability to play so that you can enjoy a good game.

We also provide the opportunity to play competitive chess. We currently field two teams in the Dorset League and several of our players also take part in local tournaments such as the Dorset Open and the Bournemouth Grand.

Our evening session fee is only £2 so you do not need to commit yourself to joining the club until you feel ready.

If you are interested please contact Steve Peirson on 01929 552504.

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30

Index of advertisers

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

Accountants Ward Goodman.................................................... 31 Aerials Repairline............................................................. 15 Bars, Pubs & Restaurants Bull & Boat........................................................... 15 Bathrooms C+C Plumbing & Bathrooms................................. 9 Bedrooms Custom Creations................................................. 31 Blinds, Curtains & Shutters Ashley Blinds......................................................... 3 Builders Purbeck Home Improvements.............................. 1 Cameras Rocky Rock Cameras............................................. 15 Carpenters Total Woodwork - Peter Albin............................... 3 Carpets & Flooring Peter Newman Flooring........................................ 5 Community News Adventures of Nellie............................................. 22 Consumer Tips: Nuisance Calls............................. 24 Dorset Wildlife Trust: Help us record wildlife........ 14 Local hospice seeks unwanted gifts...................... 8 It’s All Childs Play: Sticks Tricks............................. 21 Martin Lewis: Bank Accounts............................... 16 Michael James Music Trust................................... 13 Motoring: All-New Mazda MX-5........................... 28 On your plot: Time to go undercover.................... 26 Plant of the Month: Tomato................................. 27 Purbeck Chess Club............................................... 29 Purbeck District Council News................................ 12 Recipe: Coconut & Lemon Slices........................... 19 Swanage Area Dementia Friendly Community..... 6

Furniture Custom Creations................................................. 31 Sunrise Warehouse............................................... 29 Garden Services TD Landscaping & Fencing................................... 27 Hairdressers Philip Mills Hair Design......................................... 17 Insurance Services Coversure Insurance............................................. 32 Jewellers Georgian Gems..................................................... 13 Kitchens Custom Creations................................................. 31 Plumbers C+C Plumbing....................................................... 9 Gasways Heating.................................................. 13 Heatwise............................................................... 2 Property Maintenance Total Woodwork - Peter Albin............................... 3 Puzzles & Competitions Crossword............................................................. 18 Kids Page.............................................................. 10 Prize Wordsearch.................................................. 25 Sudoku.................................................................. 18 Skip Hire Ideal Skip Hire....................................................... 7 Taxis DMB Cars.............................................................. 9 Tool & Plant Hire Sydenhams........................................................... 5 TV Sales & Repairs Repairline............................................................. 15

Computer Services AJV Computing..................................................... 29

Venues & Accommodation California Barn...................................................... 7

Events Purbeck Railway Circle......................................... 19 Swanage Blues Festival........................................ 20

Waste Services Philip Trim............................................................. 2

Financial Services Ward Goodman.................................................... 31

Windows, Doors & Conservatories Cloudy2Clear Windows......................................... 11 Doors-Windows-Locks.......................................... 3

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31

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Poole A5 advert_Layout 1 27/02/2015 11:43 Page 1

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