The Swanage Oracle - May 2021

The

SWANAGE

Oracle

MAY

2021

Email: info@philiptrimcontractors.com

2

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The Swanage Oracle

Edition 149

We have some freedom again at last! Daichi, the Dashing Dude, our beloved campervan was ecstatic that he could get out and visit the family! We had a great trip to Adderbury in Oxfordshire, where we met the new Lockdown puppy, Lottie. You can read all about it inside.

Have you also visited long lost relatives? Have you been shopping? Have you managed to get to the pub for an outside drink and maybe a bite to eat? It is so good to see the Highstreets livelier again. What times! Some events are also getting ready for the summer, so do look out for these and support them where you can.

Let’s make the most of our times together, Advertise with us but do wear those masks inside and keep the Take your business to new heights distance for now. We will benefit from it and with our affordable advertising not create more problems, which let’s face packages! Supply your own artwork or it, none of us want. So, enjoy and stick to the use our in-house design and brand rules for now.

Of course, we have our loyal and wonderful trades and businesses inside our pages, as well as local information, puzzles and articles for you to read. We are happy to hear from you, so if you have anything to say to improve your local magazine, or just tell us what you like about it, please email me at debbie@modernmagazines.co.uk.

If you have used a local trade or business and want to give us good news about them, we can print it in the magazine. Let’s shout about good works done locally!

Stephen, myself, Hayden and the excited Daichi wish a wonderful May. May you enjoy the outdoors with family and friends!

expert. To chat to Debbie or the sales team, give us a call:

01929 408080

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enquiries@modernmagazines.co.uk Copy deadline for June edition: 10th May 2021 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 ant retrieval systems or transmitted in any form, without prior permission of the publisher.

A publication by

Debbie, Stephen, Hayden & Daichi 4

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Fallen Master While in 2021 it’s a brand marking a hundred years’ presence on our high streets, we look back a decade to when HMV signalled the beginning of the end for the way we purchase music by shutting 60 stores in the UK. When HMV announced at the start of 2011 that they’d be closing 60 of their iconic stores, the reaction of the general public was largely one of sombre resignation.

Formerly a music emporium of the very highest acclaim, HMV (His Master’s Voice) had been outwardly vocal at the struggles they were experiencing in the face of a digital music revolution which, while having started at the turn of the Millennium, was now rapidly gathering pace.

The problem was three-fold – the ease, convenience and cheaper purchasing of music in the form of MP3s, the fashion of streaming music rather than actually purchasing it, and the growing spectre of Amazon.

It all meant competition was as intense as at any point in HMV’s history.

The announcement that 60

stores were to close meant the total still operating in the UK dropped from almost 300 in 2010 to what would become a revised total of 238 by 2012.

Worse was to follow, however. In 2013, another huge cull left just 141 in our high streets, although that dip arrested itself in the years that followed. In fairness, the fact the former retail giant has any presence left in the high street isn’t an insignificant achievement (although how the closures of our shopping areas in the wake of the Covid pandemic will impact the chain’s long-term prospects remains to be seen).

The retailer opened its first store 100 years ago, in 1921, in London’s Oxford Street. While

success over the first few years was modest, HMV did expand into the manufacture of television and radio sets from the 1930s. Yet it was during the advent of the ‘popular’ music revolution in the Sixties that they really began to take a hold on the record market.

As recently as 2009 the evolution of the brand took it into ownership of live music venues, but all too quickly in the fickle and volatile music industry does the predator become the prey, and en route to administration in 2013 it sold off its key assets (Hammersmith Apollo and Waterstone’s included).

It will be interesting to see how the store fares when lockdown is lifted; was the closure of 60 stores in 2011 – and a host of others thereafter – a line in the sand, or the beginning of this iconic brand being washed away? Only time will tell.

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Reduce your food waste, help combat climate change & save money!

At a time when we’re all trying to play our part in tackling Climate Change, there’s one easy action we can take – and it will also save us money! The edible food we throw away contributes to climate change. We are wasting not only the food but the valuable resources that have gone into creating it too - from fertilisers and water that was used for growing it, to the greenhouse gases created from its production and transportation.

Here are some handy tips on how to reduce your food waste: Get your portions right – It’s very easy to cook too much pasta and rice. Obviously appetites differ, but a quarter of a standard mug of uncooked rice or two generous handfuls of uncooked pasta per person are a good rule of thumb when estimating quantities required.

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Store food correctly – Food lasts longer if stored in the right places. Bread is best stored in its original packaging in a cupboard or in a bread bin, not the fridge. Potatoes should be kept in a breathable bag/sack (not plastic packaging) and stored in a cool, dark place.

Get the best use out of Fridge/Freezer – Setting your fridge down to 5 degrees will keep food fresher for longer.

Freezing what you won’t eat is like pressing the pause button. All kinds of foods can be frozen, right up to the “use-by” date, including milk and bread.

For more hints and tips visit www.lovefoodhatewaste.com

Dorset Council Waste Team

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9

Does the Tower of London lie on the north or south bank of the river Thames?

British stamps are different to any other stamps in the world as they are the only ones to not bear what?

Which UK motorway links the M5 with the M40?

What number is positioned between numbers 2 and 3 on a dartboard?

How was Nelson's body preserved during his return from the Battle of Trafalgar?

Can you place the following rivers in order of length, beginning with the longest first: Great Ouse, Thames, Severn, Trent, Wye?

Who wrote the famous poem 'The Tyger'?

What colour jacket is worn by the dog in trap one in British greyhound racing?

What is the largest lake in England?

Which famous English drummer continued to play following the amputation of his left arm in 1985?

Can you name the seven Anglo-Saxon Kingdoms of England?

Which motor car company uses the bonnet ornament 'The Spirit of Ecstasy'?

In a game of bingo, what number is known as Kelly's eye?

Which English country appears first in the alphabet?

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What musical instrument was taken by Sir Francis Drake on his final voyage and is now on display at Buckland Abbey?

Which UK city is known as 'The Square Mile'?

Which famous male once quoted, 'There is a forgotten nay almost forbidden word, which means more to me than any other. The word is ENGLAND'?

Which 5 letter English word has 4 useless (unpronouced) letters?

Where is Blackpool Sands located?

In the Monday's child rhyme, which child is full of woe?

FIND THE ANSWERS Page 30

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The Great Dame Acting icon Dame Judi Dench who, at 86, continues to proves that age is but a number.

Dame Judi Dench exists in the upper echelons of British acting royalty. She’s enjoyed a 65-year career cartwheeling between stage and screen, is a favourite of the Royal Shakespeare Company, and has received an incredible seven Oscar nominations.

Dench ultimately took home the Best Actress in a Supporting Role gong for her performance as Queen Elizabeth in John Madden’s Shakespeare in Love – the fact that she did so with only eight minutes screen time is credit to her dramatic expertise.

After joining the Bond franchise in 1995 as M, the only woman 007 will answer to, Dench has said goodbye to spies, villains and saving the world after Skyfall, though has embraced the power of the grey pound and continues to lead the charge of colourful older characters on the silver screen.

Dench is undeniably box office gold, and always in demand.

She appeared in no fewer than five new TV and film projects in 2020 but concedes that, as an actress, job security is always at the back of her mind. “Trevor Nunn once came to wish me

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luck on a first night and said, ‘why are you always in tears on a first night?’. I said, ‘It’s because I never think I’m going to be employed again!’”

Fear may keep this actress on her toes, but one thing about the industry does irk Dench.

“What I don’t like is when you play something and then after

vocabulary – “I don’t use it, I don’t use ‘retire’.”

that, you get sent scripts just like the thing you just played, which is the last thing you want to do, the very last thing. I don’t want to play somebody like last person I’ve played, I want to play a person who’s as different as possible.”

The actress has struggled with the eyesight problem macular degeneration in recent years, but despite that she’s eliminated the R word from her

The evidence is laid out in front of us – in 2021 she entertains two new projects – Off the Rails, in which a group of friends look to fulfil a coming of age inter-rail trip across Europe; and Belfast, where she plays the grandmother in a family experiencing the bruising working class realities of Northern Ireland in the late 1960s.

Away from the cameras, Dench recently found love for a second time, with conservationist David Mills.

The actress had previously enjoyed a happy 30 years with her husband, Michael Williams, who passed away in 2001.

Now well into her octogenarian years, both Dench’s personal and professional lives show that new beginnings abound at any age.

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13

Talking about Wildlife...

Help with the health of heathland We all think of heathland as being either glorious (when the sun is shining on it) or wonderfully bleak (when lashed by wind and rain). But whatever the weather, we invariably think of heathland as being tough a sort of resilient and indestructible place. But in actual fact heathland is fragile. This is because heathland is largely occupied by heathers, and heathers are unusual and fussy plants.

To start with, heathers are ‘dwarf shrubs’. This means that like all shrubs they are woody and brittle and so can be easily snapped. But unlike other shrubs they are low growing and thus very liable to be stepped on, when, unsurprisingly, they do not bend, but snap off. This is why heathers readily die when walked over, and new bare paths are so readily formed where they were not present before.

And then heathers are ‘oligotrophic’.

This means that they only do well where the ground is poor in nutrients.

When the ground is poor they hold their own against plants that like it rich, but when the ground becomes Heather

Photo: Amy Lewis

Upton Heath

Photo: Nicky Hoar

rich, those other plants win the day.

Dog poo, left to decompose naturally, makes the ground nutrient rich. This is why heathers are so easily ousted by lush green grasses and herbs alongside paths where dog poo is left.

When we go out on our seemingly tough old heathlands, we should remember that appearances can be deceptive and that actually, like other old things, they are rather on the fragile side. So, keeping to existing main paths, even when a tad muddy, stops the heath becoming criss-crossed by many new ones (and makes it less likely that we will disturb those rare ground nesting birds in summer). And always picking up and removing dog poo helps to prevent those main paths becoming lined by widening bands of non-heathland (and avoids the health hazard which is just as relevant here as in formal open spaces). If we want our heaths to continue to provide for our needs, we do need to be aware of theirs.

By Lesley Haskins

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15

Crossword Puzzle

Using the clues, write the correct words in the grid.

ACROSS 1. You can use a cell phone or camera 4. Made by the dozen 6. Outdoors or indoors 9. To cover your face, you do this 10. Made by the dozen, often sweet 11. This creates a bouquet 13. The Cha-Cha is an example of this 14. Get rid of stuff you don’t need

DOWN 1. Orchards are where you can _________ 2. Go outside and ______ ______.

3. You need ears for this 5. This is so much fun and .... sweet too 7. Tour around town 8. Binoculars help with this 12. This word can be a noun or a verb

Answers on Pg 30 16

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Live the life that you deserve...

If you thought bathing safely and stylishly wasn’t possible, think again...

Picture the scene, it’s the end of the day. Your body feels tired and your mind is ready for some downtime. You imagine what it would feel like to climb into a warm, soothing bath and let you cares melt away.

Then a niggling doubt takes hold. Last time you had a bath you had to call your partner to help you get out. Maybe it won’t happen this time.

So, you run a bath anyway thinking this time you’ll be ok. But can you enjoy your bath with those doubts in your mind? And more importantly, should you?

We know that going from a ‘normal’ bathroom to one with mobility aids feels like a step in a direction you don’t want to go. But it depends how you look at it.

There are far more people aged over 65 in the UK today compared to a generation ago – almost a fifth of the population – and it’s a fact of life that we all need little extra help as we get older.

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17

QUIRKY

BY MICA BALE Although it cannot be denied that the past TWELVE months have been very difficult, there is also no denying that the charm of Dorset continues to delight and intrigue BOTH locals and visitors when circumstances allow. From a look at Lassie’s namesake to an explosive visit from Prince Maurice, here ARE five more interesting facts that prove Dorset truly is the shining jewel in the crown of Great Britain.

Did you know that beloved children’s character Lassie, the instantly recognisable dog immortalised by films, television and books, was actually based on a dog from Lyme Regis?

It’s said that during the first world war a torpedo struck the HMS Formidable, splintering the vessel and sending men into the water. A rescue party from the local inn is said to have brought home as many as they could, including one believed to be dead. That was until Lassie entered the scene and, after licking and mothering the sailor, seemingly recovered him. Lassie was a hero and led to her breed being portrayed in countless works of fiction.

Following the Great Fire of London, the need for building materials, especially those of a durable nature, created a demand for Purbeck stone. Swanage, which had always been known for its stone quarrying, was an ideal location from which to transport the stone. In fact, if you were to step back into the years following the tragedy of London’s fire, it would not be an uncommon sight to see a bustling scene of activity, loading ships in Swanage with as much Purbeck stone as the vessel could take. It could well be said that post the Great Fire, London was largely built up on the back of Dorset’s own materials.

Were you aware that according to the 1851 census, a total of 1,686 people were involved in Dorset’s historic glove trade? The glove trade has been a key element of Dorset’s economic history since as early as the 14th century and even today is a trade that proudly remembers its roots with several long established glove makers still thriving today!

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3 Did you know that two mammoths were discovered in Dewlish? The giant prehistoric creatures were discovered in the Dorset village at various points in the 1800s and were thought to be dating back thousands of years.

Although few remains have been found in the county which match the magnitude of the mammoth, Dorset is rich with various remains of different prehistoric animals and fossils.

Did you know that Prince Maurice, grandson of King James VI and Queen Anne of Denmark once made a rather explosive visit to Beaminster? During the English Civil War, when Prince Maurice was supporting his uncle Charles I, the young royal went to stay for a time in the town however his visit was short lived as a musket was fired, perhaps even an attempt on his life. The musket landed in a thatched roof, causing the entire house to catch alight which quickly spread throughout the settlement, very nearly completely razing Beaminster to the ground! Remarkably the town would go on to suffer a series of fires that threatened its existence in the years to come though thankfully Beaminster survived until today!

Five super summer fashion trends Whether you’re a fashion daredevil or classical style maven, make this a summer to remember with these five dazzling trends.

Racing car red After a long, lockdown winter, it should come as no surprise that red is the colour of summer 2021. Bold, beautiful and a symbol of passion and desire, this is the ideal trend if you want to be noticed and admired.

Fire engine red sunglasses, bangles or lipstick are great way to add a touch of glamour to an otherwise drab outfit; or you can go full screen siren with one of the many red dresses seen on the spring/summer catwalks: red is the colour you would be seen dead in.

Dreamy denim Fans of Seventies fashion rejoice! Wide-legged denim is back and it’s better than ever.

That’s right, you can ditch those drainpipe jeans once and for all and embrace your inner Jane Birkin.

From high-rise wide-leg jeans in powdery blue denim to inky indigo flares, this is one of those looks you can wear morning to night. Endlessly versatile, you can dress your denim down with an oversized

boyfriend shirt and loafers, or be a Seventies sweetheart with wedge sandals, statement sunglasses and a headscarf.

trend may be for you. A trend that felt all about the Eighties, Saint Laurent and Gucci sent down models in divine leather pencil skirts with pussy-bow blouses, while Alexander McQueen’s belted leather mini dress looks like it came straight off the set of Desperately Seeking Susan.

Powder puff pastels If you’re seeking a summer of romance, this is the look for you. Not just puffed-up sleeves and billowing dresses, but also in the dreamiest of colours.

Sheer, voluminous blouses in the palest of pinks; ruffled minidresses in lemon sorbet yellow, and taffeta gowns in every ice cream hue.

Luxe leather If playful pastels are not your thing, then the luxe leather

Boldest of all though were the numerous leather trench coats, trousers and suits, all in the supplest of leathers, and the kind of daring cuts that would make Grace Jones herself weep.

Cutesy knits Breathable, fitted and supremely stylish, this is not your average knitwear.

For starters, the pieces are not designed to be layered over a dress or a t-shirt, but are more of a standalone statement piece. From jacquard-knit merino wool polo shirts to fitted bodysuits in a blend of cashmere and silk, this is a trend which is both practical AND luxurious.

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Famous Words Do you know who said it? Find the answers on P30

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Increasing numbers of homeowners are choosing to hold their properties as tenants in common to cut inheritance tax, avoid care home fees and to protect their share 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.

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25

Let’s Sudoku!

Do you love numbers? Enjoy 2 new Sudoku challenges in every issue!

Answers on Page 30

Spot the Difference!

There are 10 differences between the two images below.

How many can you spot?

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27

The Adventures of Daichi

The Modern Magazines Camper Van The Grand National had nothing on Daichi coming out of the gates last month when he was finally allowed to visit the family! He darted out like Minella Times (winner of course of this year’s Grand National) when the shot was fired, and the race was on. Oh, what excitement. Oh, what freedom.

He bounced his way to Adderbury, in Oxfordshire, to see Stephen’s Dad and sister. It was a good day with some sunshine and not only that, but Rachel had a new ‘Lockdown puppy’, a beautiful black cockapoo named Lottie.

We had seen videos and photos, but as we now know, this is nothing like the real thing or seeing and hearing something in person. This was definitely something to get excited about. After all, Daichi loves to run around, so this was a fantastic excuse.

We have never owned a dog and Hayden would love a black Labrador, but I have never managed to summon up the courage to get him one. Life is busy and I really do think you have to

Lottie gets to know Hayden...

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Daichi admires the new school... have the time, for the benefit of the dog. If you do, I honestly think they can be the best companions. A friend of ours got a wonderful sausage dog called Ralph and she told me it is the best decision she has made. Her Mum who lives with her and her two grown up children have been brought together as family and they get on even better as a result. They are all smiles. The minute we arrived Lottie was all over us and particularly Hayden who wasted no time in running around the garden with a ball. I am not sure who was having the most fun. Lottie loves to grab something of yours and go and hide it.

You can see the mischievous look in her eyes. So playful.

A walk was in order. Alan, Stephen’s Dad, has a walk he really likes at this time of year as the ground is good under foot despite any rain. We went to Longford Park in Banbury a short drive away. The new build houses reminded me of Poundbury, Dorchester which was developed by Prince Charles and is

still growing. Daichi parked outside of the primary school, which fortunately was closed, or we could have lost him in the play area…

Here there is a park, with walks down to the Oxford Canal. Young trees have been planted in their hundreds, so it will be interesting to see how the whole area develops. Having never visited before or know anything about long boats and cruising the gentle waters, I was thrilled to be learning something new. The 78-mile narrow canal stretches from Oxford to Coventry I believe. I am sure some of you know it well and could tell me all about it.

Maybe you have even ‘sailed’ it yourself?

I find the longboats fascinating and I would really like to try a holiday onboard. A friend who is actually very active did take a holiday with friends of theirs on one of these serene looking floating houses and I think it took her a few days to ‘calm down’ to the rather slow, meandering pace of life, but once she did, she thoroughly enjoyed it and of course loved the lock-changing and all that entailed. From what I am told this is quite energetic and a real highlight of canal cruising. Since visiting this area, I have looked on-line and

A narrow boat on the Oxford canal

...and soon they are running mates! found hundreds of boats you can hire in various locations, so we may just have to try this. I am not sure Daichi, the Dashing Dude, is happy about it though, as he is way too playful to be trusted on a narrow boat, and would have to sit on the side-lines and watch!

It was a wonderful walk. Hayden ran around the whole time with Lottie who had no signs of running out of energy. She grabbed our trouser legs a few times to merrily remind us she was there. Spirits were high. Fresh air, all that catching up. Oh how we had missed the company and oh how we appreciate real conversations, discussions, smiles and outdoor fun together as a family.

Lottie was a total hit with Hayden. I now want to go on a canal boat to enjoy the gentle waters and more importantly Grandad finally got to see us all again.

The day was a total success. Daichi drove us home smiling from headlight to headlight, and so did we. Well ear to ear anyway! With the Lockdown lifting even further and more excitement ahead, I wonder where Daichi will take us next? We do hope you are fit, well and smiling too.

By Debbie Corney

still growing. Daichi parked outside of the primary school, which fortunately was closed, or we could have lost him in the play area…

Here there is a park, with walks down to the Oxford Canal. Young trees have been planted in their hundreds, so it will be interesting to see how the whole area develops. Having never visited before or know anything about long boats and cruising the gentle waters, I was thrilled to be learning something new. The 78-mile narrow canal stretches from Oxford to Coventry I believe. I am sure some of you know it well and could tell me all about it.

Maybe you have even ‘sailed’ it yourself?

I find the longboats fascinating and I would really like to try a holiday onboard. A friend who is actually very active did take a holiday with friends of theirs on one of these serene looking floating houses and I think it took her a few days to ‘calm down’ to the rather slow, meandering pace of life, but once she did, she thoroughly enjoyed it and of course loved the lock-changing and all that entailed. From what I am told this is quite energetic and a real highlight of canal cruising. Since visiting this area, I have looked on-line and

A narrow boat on the Oxford canal

...and soon they are running mates! found hundreds of boats you can hire in various locations, so we may just have to try this. I am not sure Daichi, the Dashing Dude, is happy about it though, as he is way too playful to be trusted on a narrow boat, and would have to sit on the side-lines and watch!

It was a wonderful walk. Hayden ran around the whole time with Lottie who had no signs of running out of energy. She grabbed our trouser legs a few times to merrily remind us she was there. Spirits were high. Fresh air, all that catching up. Oh how we had missed the company and oh how we appreciate real conversations, discussions, smiles and outdoor fun together as a family.

Lottie was a total hit with Hayden. I now want to go on a canal boat to enjoy the gentle waters and more importantly Grandad finally got to see us all again.

The day was a total success. Daichi drove us home smiling from headlight to headlight, and so did we. Well ear to ear anyway! With the Lockdown lifting even further and more excitement ahead, I wonder where Daichi will take us next? We do hope you are fit, well and smiling too.

By Debbie Corney 29

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31

Wonga no longer Has the era of the ruthless payday loan come to an end?

While the concept of the payday loan is one that, on the face of it, can work well for people needing just a shortterm boost to cashflow in order to take care of bills, the reality for those unable to pay back within an agreed timeframe can be a situation that very quickly spirals out of control.

Thankfully, in recent years, the government has introduced new regulations that mean that, while there remain a plethora of payday lenders following Wonga’s demise in 2018, their actions are tightly regulated.

When payday loans work For short-term bridging finance, it’s unquestionable that payday loans do work. It is the same concept as borrowing a small amount of money from people we know, albeit the mechanics are very different. When repaying friends or family there is usually a set agreed date, and the loan is interest free.

With payday loans, you can miss your expected repayment date and the lender won’t bat an eyelid; although your interest will start to escalate.

The secret to a payday loan working is in the name – it’s a

32

loan to tide you over until payday, and if you do that, a £100 loan may typically see you repaying around £11 in interest over a two-week period.

When payday loans don’t work Not being able to afford to pay back the payday loan is the first step towards trouble. Interest will begin to accumulate, and would more than double for Your protection The cost of payday loans is now capped by law through the Financial Conduct Authority, meaning that no more than £24 per £100 can be added in charges and interest in a 30-day period. In addition, the cost of a loan will never be more than twice what was initially borrowed.

the same £100 loan if the repayment time was to stretch to a month.

It’s also easy to fall into the trap of being in a ‘loan cycle’ or ‘loan trap’, namely that payday clears the existing loan, but doesn’t leave enough money for the month ahead, which then necessitates another payday loan a couple of weeks later.

Other solutions As ever, there are a raft of suggestions and solutions provided by charities such as Step Change, who recommend budgeting as the first step towards managing money and, ultimately, avoiding the need for short-term loans altogether.

So while the payday loan is here to stay, its reputation and regulation has been much improved, though as with any financial arrangement, the first rule is always ‘buyer beware’.

To advertise in this magazine, call 01929 408080

Wareham Bears saved from extinction The Wareham Bears, who have given pleasure to generations of visitors to Dorset, are being welcomed to their new home at Wimborne Model Town.

The collection of dressed teddies set in dioramas, had faced an uncertain future following the closure of The Blue Pool last summer. Model Town Trustees have offered them a permanent home at the charity attraction, with preparations well advanced for the new residents. A spokesman commented: “We are delighted to announce the arrival of our new furry friends and are busy providing them with the bare necessities to make them feel at home. They are going to make a wonderful addition to our offering

The Advice Team Helping you with: Benefit appeals & applictions Lasting Power of Attorney Advance decisions The team has been successful in providing advice and representation for 15 years and can help you too.

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33

Introducing... The Swanage Bakery Tucked just 20m from Swanage’s sea front, you’ll find The Swanage Bakery (formerly Haymans Bakery) - our family run bakery and cafe that’s been proudly serving the Isle of Purbeck with freshly baked bread, pastries and treats for nearly 100 years.

Not even a pandemic could stop us from baking and keeping up our longstanding legacy! We’ve been busy throughout the lockdowns, offering home deliveries of our freshly made loaves to those in the local area. For that, we want to take this opportunity to thank all of our wonderful customers who’ve kept our ovens hot at this peculiar time.

With that said, we can’t wait to welcome you back to our café when we re-open. We’re looking forward to you enjoying a hearty lunch with loved ones from our comfy booths, taking away a smoothie or hamper for your day at the beach, and sharing with you a number of new products and loaves we’ve

been working hard on behind the scenes. In the meantime, our shop is continuing to serve takeaway bread, pastries, treats, hot drinks and lunches.

One of our newest creations we’re proud of is our sourdough loaves. Sourdough is a naturally leavened bread, which means it does not use any commercial yeast to rise it. Instead, we use what’s called a ‘starter’ to get that rise – a fermented flour and water mixture that contains wild yeast and good bacteria in. It’s a science that’s taken us 18 months to perfect, and now we’ve got a host of delicious sourdough loaves for you to try.

Excitingly, they’re a carb that have multiple benefits, including for your gut health and digestion.

To place an order of any of our products and have it either delivered to your door or ready to collect at the shop, call us on 01929 422 594 or visit www. swanagebakery.com/order-collect.

Stay safe and see you soon for some freshly baked goodness.

34

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35

Cool For Cats (And Dogs) How to keep your four-legged friends healthy and happy in the heat.

AN INSIDE JOB Although the temptation is to get ourselves and our pets out of the house as much as possible during the summer months, in actual fact dogs will sleep for well over half the day meaning that desire to stretch their legs is probably less than you think.

It’s also really important to make sure dogs have cool surfaces to walk on.

Consider how hot pavements become during summer months - yet our four-legged friends will only sweat through their foot pads or by panting. That’s why ensuring a cool floor environment is vitally important, and if that means longer spells indoors then so be it… they’ll thank you for it!

A SHADY CHARACTER When you do venture outside, shade is crucially important – raised, roofed portable dog beds that fold down for travel are a great resource when temperatures increase – as is a plentiful supply of water… a portable dog bowl is an absolute must.

36

Remember too, the sun will move throughout the day so keep a check on the shelter you’ve provided to ensure it’s actually doing its job properly. fetch or catch, do your best to limit the amount you play even when that tennis ball or stick keeps being retrieved and put back in front of you!

EVERYTHING’S GOING SWIMMINGLY And of course if you find yourself near a lake or river, there’s nothing dogs like more then to take a dip in some cool water. This will immediately bring body temperature back down to a safe level, at the same time offering them the opportunity to rehydrate with a satisfying slurp!

A LOT OF LOLLY Finally, consider making your little loved one their very own dog ice lolly - after all why should it just be us humans who get to enjoy the ultimate summer’s day cooler?!

CHILL OUT A casual chilled-out stroll with your faithful friend is just about all they need in the summer months, and you should avoid tagging a dog alongside you while you go for a bike ride as they may quickly overheat.

In the same way if your dog is an addict when it comes to

Using meat, some vegetables – usually carrots – and perhaps an apple as well, you can quickly and easily blend a mixture together, pop it in the freezer, then take your dog ice lollies out with you in a cool bag ready for those moments when a refreshing snack is well deserved.

To advertise in this magazine, call 01929 408080

TWICE THE CARE, TWICE THE HEARTACHE Having a child with a life-limiting condition is every parent’s nightmare, so imagine the overwhelming worry and exhaustion of having two.

That’s what life is like for Lisa, mum to Annabelle and Robbie. Both children were born with Juvenile Batten disease, a devastating condition which has already taken their sight and causes seizures and dementia. Luckily, the children’s hospice charity Julia’s House is on hand to support the family.

“I can’t believe what has happened to our family,” says Lisa. “We’re on an emotional rollercoaster trying to protect Robbie.

We don’t want him to see the fear we have and Annabelle is a daily reminder of what’s to come. Having Julia’s House care for Robbie too is a comfort. When Annabelle has gone, he will have that level of understanding and support at a really difficult time. We all will.”

“Julia’s House feels like a family that is there for our family. They have been there for us throughout the pandemic providing respite, sibling support, fun and laughter.”

When you play the Julia’s House lottery you are making a real difference to the lives of local families facing extraordinary challenges. It costs just £1 a week to play - £1 a week to help provide a lifeline of care. Visit juliashouse.org/lottery

PLAY YOUR PART IN THEIR CARE Playing the Julia’s House weekly lottery is not just about winning prizes, it’s about changing lives.

It costs just £1 a week to play our lottery, £1 a week to give local families a lifeline of care through the current unsettling times.

Join our lottery today and help local families like Annabelle’s.

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37

Do’s and Don’ts of Home Décor What looks good in your hood… and what doesn’t!

DO settle on a style you like Create mood boards, thinking carefully about whether you want an eclectic mixed-up style, or perhaps something a little more rigid such as minimalism or industrial.

BUT DON’T create themed rooms Bedecking your entire house in seashells and knotted ropes is going to get tiring quickly.

Instead, think more about accents and the odd statement piece to reveal your heart’s desires.

DO test your colours first Forget miniscule colour swatches and instead paint a decent-sized square on your wall. Then, live with it for a few days before making your final decision.

BUT DON’T obsess over one particular hue A colour theme is a good way to pull your home together, and can run like a subtle thread throughout it.

However, an entire room with matching walls, carpet and furnishings will make the space feel claustrophobic.

DO take inspiration from magazines and influencers Be open-minded and seek out as many resources as you can - you may be surprised by what catches your eye.

BUT DON’T be afraid to mix it up Nothing dates a décor like everything being from the same era. It also means you’ll be back buying it all again in five years’ time.

DO take into account the needs of your family A beautiful minimalist space with white carpet and walls, yet you have four kids!

Some pristine dreams will have to wait until your nest is empty!

BUT DON’T compromise all style for practicality That doesn’t mean you have to put plastic

coverings over your sofas.

Instead, invest in a few nice toy crates and beanbags, letting your children’s belongings enhance rather than take away from your home’s design fair.

DO splash out on expensive pieces Invest in furniture that you not only love, but that will stand the test of time. Plywood drawers and cheap wardrobes will only come to frustrate you costing more money in the long run.

BUT DON’T be afraid to go vintage There is a lot of furniture – particularly made in the Fifties and Sixties (think Eames and G-plan) – that’s designed to last and still looks incredible.

DO be ambitious with style Let your creativity run a little wild and be bold, if you want to.

BUT DON’T ignore your home’s natural architecture Always try to embrace the natural beauty and charm of your surroundings.

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39

WRITTEN BY KATE EARL

STAR GAZING kateearlastro@gmail.com Welcome to the May Stargazing Page. Highlights this month include many opportunities to see the ISS, a chance to spot all terrestrial planets in one evening, and locating the North Star.

Interna onal Space Sta on The ISS is visible nearly every night during the month of May; early in the morning at the beginning of the month, gradually moving to our evening skies by month end.

Even though the nights are shortening, the Space Station overhead passes are much brighter at this time of year, and more frequent. This is because the Sun never sets too far below the horizon, increasing the likelihood of its light being reflected off the Space Station’s huge solar panels. 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 home town.

Mercury Low on the northwestern horizon, Mercury is best viewed in the first half of the month, above and to the left of dazzling Venus. A two-day old Moon joins the party on the 13th for a lovely planet-scape setting in the west (see figure). At around 8.45pm on the 3rd and 4th, Mercury appears very close to our old chums, The Pleiades open star cluster.

Venus Venus is currently showing off, blazing at magnitude -3.9 low in the northwest (in astronomy, the more negative a magnitude value is, the brighter the object. For example, the Sun has a magnitude of -27). At the start of the month Venus is setting by 9.30pm, but by month end it remains in our sky until 10.30pm.

Mars

Object of the Month The North Star is a moderately bright star that always points towards north: if we were to live at the North Pole it would be directly above our heads. Numerous explorers, including Christopher Columbus, used the North Star to navigate and find their way home.

Known also as Polaris, the Pole Star, and Phoenice amongst others, the North Star can easily be found using the familiar Plough asterism located in The Great Bear constellation, Ursa Major. Two of the stars in the ‘bowl’ of the Plough point towards the North Star (see figure). During the month of May the Plough is easy to find as its handle lies almost directly overhead before midnight. The current North Star hasn’t always been, nor will it always be, our North Star. This is because the Earth’s axis wobbles and tilts, eventually pointing to different stars over timescales of hundreds of years. 11,500 years from now the North Star will be Vega, a bright star that denotes one of the corners of the Summer Triangle asterism, quite far across the sky from the current North Star.

The Plough Asterism

North Star

Face North and look directly up until you find the Plough Asterism.

Use the two stars that mark the bowl’s edge to find the North Star.

The red planet can still be seen in the western sky around 10pm, and is joined by the Moon on the 15th.

Jupiter and Saturn

Mercury

The two gas giants can be seen between 3.30 – 5am in the southeast. They are joined in the early morning dawn by the Moon between the 3 – 5th May.

Moon This month’s full moon occurs on 26th May, and is traditionally known by a variety of names, including Flower, Milk, and Corn-planting Full Moon. Two descriptive Native American terms for this month’s full moon are, ‘Moon when ice is breaking in rivers’, and, ‘Moon when the horses get fat’.

40

Venus

W

13th May 09:30PM

NW

Object of the Month The North Star is a moderately bright star that always points towards north: if we were to live at the North Pole it would be directly above our heads. Numerous explorers, including Christopher Columbus, used the North Star to navigate and find their way home.

Known also as Polaris, the Pole Star, and Phoenice amongst others, the North Star can easily be found using the familiar Plough asterism located in The Great Bear constellation, Ursa Major. Two of the stars in the ‘bowl’ of the Plough point towards the North Star (see figure). During the month of May the Plough is easy to find as its handle lies almost directly overhead before midnight. The current North Star hasn’t always been, nor will it always be, our North Star. This is because the Earth’s axis wobbles and tilts, eventually pointing to different stars over timescales of hundreds of years. 11,500 years from now the North Star will be Vega, a bright star that denotes one of the corners of the Summer Triangle asterism, quite far across the sky from the current North Star.

The Plough Asterism

North Star

Face North and look directly up until you find the Plough Asterism.

Use the two stars that mark the bowl’s edge to find the North Star.

Mercury

Venus

W

13th May 09:30PM

NW 41

Common Scents How to design an aromatherapy garden For many, the true delight of our gardens comes in the scents and aromas present; and these are celebrated to such an extent now that green-fingered enthusiasts have begun styling aromatherapy gardens, with an absolute focus on fragrance.

Here are our top seven tips for getting started: ONE - Create defined areas The trick is to match likeminded aromas. So in one area perhaps start with essences that are invigorating and energising – think peppermint, lemon balm, rosemary, jasmine and thyme. Perhaps you could even plant a lemon tree next to a table, enabling then breeze to awaken zestiness from what is a beautiful looking plant.

In another, perhaps quieter area of the garden, explore the calming varieties available to you. Here you’ll want lavender, chamomile, bergamot, scented geraniums and even roses.

TWO - Plant with distance Your aromatherapy garden will flourish as the seasons

progress, so leave space for plants to find their own personalities, aiding their movement with walls, beds and trelliswork.

THREE - A break in play Add in breaks using rocks, stepping stones or wood so that you can move between areas that retain their own personality.

FOUR - Different times, different flavours Try to experience your garden at different times of the day to sample its full glory. The morning dew will lift some smells and essences in a completely different way to the midday sun. Similarly, as the seasons progress, you’ll notice plants coming into their own, while others move into the background.

FIVE - Staying in touch When walking through an aromatherapy garden, let your hands brush against plants and flowers, releasing essence and creating a wealth of scented sensations in your hands.

SIX - Add to the experience Having an aromatherapy garden is to create a space that feels free, relaxed and, more than anything else, comfortable. So if transporting your senses to a calm place is the intention, place things around you to make that possible – that means a relaxing chair, a table on which to place a drink, and perhaps even the calming trickling ambient sound of a pond waterfall or water feature.

Your aromatherapy garden will be all the better for the additions you add that truly make it a place of peace and comfort.

SEVEN - Pick and mix And finally, don’t be afraid to pick and transport your herbs and aromas indoors. The very basis of a garden is its ability to replenish and regrow, and if you can move smells and scents to the house itself, your outdoor space is providing for you inspiration, peace and splendour for the whole home.

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43

Eton Mess Tray Bake Introduction

The classic twist on the quintessential pavlova gets reimagined once more in this mouthwatering traybake - ideal for outdoor summer soirees, classic cream teas or even just your afternoon coffee.

Ingredients

(Approximately 12 servings) For the sponge

• 200g unsalted butter, softened • 200g caster sugar • 180g self-raising flour • 1 tbsp vanilla extract • 4 medium-sized eggs • 100g ground almonds • 5 tbsp double cream • 200g mixed berries (strawberries must be hulled and sliced) For the topping • 250g double cream (whipped) • 4 shop-bought meringue nests (broken up) • 200g mixed berries Icing sugar to decorate

Top Tips • Though the final cake has fresh elements, you can prepare the sponge a few days before: simply let it cool and wrap tightly in clingfilm before storing in the fridge.

44

Method 1. Grease and line 20x30cm brownie pan with baking paper.

Heat oven to 160C/140C fan/ gas 3. In a large bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until it is light and fluffy. Add the vanilla essence and then the eggs, one by one, mixing as you go. In a separate bowl, mix the flour and ground almonds. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet until you have a thick batter. Finally, gently stir in the double cream and the berries.

2. Pour the batter in to the prepared tin, distributing the berries as evenly as you can across the cake. Bake for 35• If summer berries are not to your taste, you can adapt the recipe as you wish. Passion fruit, mango and coconut cream would make a delicious tropical traybake, or you could even try a seasonal version in

40 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre of the cake comes out clean. Leave your sponge in the pan for ten minutes before tipping out onto a wire rack to cool.

3. Once cool, spoon over the whipped double cream and meringue pieces before decorating with the berries.

Dust with icing sugar before cutting into 12 even pieces to serve. If not eating immediately, the decorated Eton Mess traybake can be stored in the fridge for a few hours, but be sure to take it out of the fridge 15 minutes before serving. the autumn with plums and blackberries.

• Why not get your kids to help decorate the traybake? After all, an Eton Mess is never meant to be perfect.

COLOUR THIS PAI IN N PALETTE T

COLOUR SUDUKO n a

is

EVERY ROW, COLUMN AND MINI GRID MUST CONTAIN THE COLOURS RED, BLUE, GREEN AND YELLOW! GOOD LUCK!

UNSCRAMBLE THE COLOUR

1. DRE …………………………….

2. INPK…………………………….

3. AGNEOR………………………..

3. ULEB…………………………….

5. REGNE………………………….

6. ERPLUP……………………………

45

Advertisers Index

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

Aerials

Garage Doors

DigitalTV4U .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

13 ......................................................................................................................................................

Garolla 33 .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Wessex Aerials Ltd 39 ......................................................................................................................................................

Skandoor 5

Appliance Repairs

Garden Services

.........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

CMS Electrical Repairs 27 ......................................................................................................................................................

AG Landscapes 43

Bakeries

Home Care Services

.........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Haymans Bakery and Coffee House 48 ......................................................................................................................................................

Bluebird Care 5

Bathrooms

Locksmiths

.........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

AHM Installations 17 ......................................................................................................................................................

Key Tek 39

Blinds, Curtains & Shutters

Pest Control Services

Ashley Blinds .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

3 ......................................................................................................................................................

Terminator Pest 27 .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Hillarys Blinds 27

Plumbers Builders

......................................................................................................................................................

C + C Plumbing 39 Jim Baggley Building Services .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

13 ......................................................................................................................................................

FXR Plumbing & Heating 3 .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Purbeck Home Improvements 1 ......................................................................................................................................................

NO.1 PHD 35 ......................................................................................................................................................

Purbeck Plumbing, Heating & Drainage Ltd 43

Carpenters

.........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Peter Albin - Total Woodwork 15 Printers ......................................................................................................................................................

Print in the Bag 21

Carpets & Flooring

.........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Kingsland Carpets 43 Property Maintenance ......................................................................................................................................................

Peter Albin - Total Woodwork 15 ......................................................................................................................................................

Purbeck Home Improvements 1 Charities

Diverse Abilities .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

33 .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Julia's House 37 Removals & Storage ......................................................................................................................................................

Purbeck Self Storage 3

Chiropractors

.........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Purbeck Chiropractic 31 Roofing Services ......................................................................................................................................................

Bespoke Roofing 11 ......................................................................................................................................................

Mallwood Roofing 15 Computer Services

.........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

AJV Computing 39

Solicitors Drainage Services

......................................................................................................................................................

Humphries Kirk 47

Dorset Drain Unblocking .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

23 .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

NO.1 PHD 35 Trailers .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Purbeck Plumbing, Heating & Drainage Ltd 43 ......................................................................................................................................................

Wessex Trailers 23

Driveways

Waste Services

.........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

County Block Paving 15 ......................................................................................................................................................

Dorset Council 9 ......................................................................................................................................................

Philip Trim Contractors 2

Electricians

.........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Pinks Electrical 2 Will Writing Services ......................................................................................................................................................

Dorset Wills 25

Farm Shops

.........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Norden Farm Shop 23 Windows, Doors & Conservatories ......................................................................................................................................................

Greenspace Uk Ltd 7

Foot Care Services

.........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

West Dorset Mobile Foot Clinic 13

46

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