The Swanage Oracle - September 2019

September 2019

Promoting your local area

THE

SWANAGE

Oracle

All major credit & debit cards accepted

& DEVELOPERS LTD

ALL ASPECTS OF ROOFING & BUILDING WORKS UNDERTAKEN * New Pitched Roofs * New Flat Roofs * Conservatory Roofs * Lead works * Pitched Roof Ventilation * UPVC Fascia, Soffit & Guttering * Extensions, Loft Conversions, New Bathrooms & Kitchens Fitted LOCAL FAMILY BUSINESS • 30 YRS EXPERIENCE • FULLY INSURED • WORKS GUARANTEED

FREE SURVEYS & QUOTES • 01929 46 33 49 / 47 28 09 • 07799 26 11 05 / 0800 567 7614 • www.purbeckhomeimprovements.co.uk

Brought to you by

Purbeck Publications Promoting your local area

www.purbeckpublications.co.uk

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Email: info@philiptrimcontractors.com

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Natural Gas, LPG and Oil qualified and registered engineer • All aspects of Plumbing and Heating undertaken • Boiler and Cylinder Installation / Service and Repair • Landlords Gas Safety Certificate • Central Heating System design and installation • Bathroom refurbishment

Call Rory on: 07980 805157 / 01929 761688 Email: rory@fxrheatingandplumbing.co.uk

www.fxrheatingandplumbing.co.uk

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Introduction

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

The Swanage Oracle

What an incredible time we have had this summer, with a very special trip to Alaska. It really was magical. The scenery, the wildlife, the sailing. We loved it all. Hayden, soon to be 16 (I cannot quite believe it‌) will probably be off and doing his own thing before we know it, so this was an opportunity to visit a place we had all want see, together. Poor Daichi, the Purbeck Publications Campervan, did not get a chance, but he is roaring to go in the next edition.

Edition 130

Published by:

Stephen & Debbie Corney at Purbeck Publications

Telephone:

01929 408080

Email:

info@swanageoracle.co.uk

Copy deadline for the October 2019 edition: 16th September 2019

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.

We do hope that you are having a good summer too. Many of our trusted and valuable tradespeople are keeping busy, which is what we are all about. They are here to help you whether it is to fix a window, create a whole new bathroom look, mend that leak, cut the grass, build a fence or even click your back into place, we have someone for you. Please do mention us when calling.

This very much keeps the magazine alive. It is really appreciated.

If you have any ideas to add to your little Oracle, I would love to hear from you. In the meantime, have a wonderful September!

Best Wishes,

Debbie, Stephen & Hayden Cover photo: Robin Boultwood

Useful Numbers Local Police Southern Electricity Transco Gas Emergency Swanage Hospital

101 0800 072 7282 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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Halloween At

The Blue Pool Spooky Hunts around the Pool, rd

Saturday 26th October – Sunday 3 November

10.00-4.00pm

Why not try an autumn warmer lunch in the Teahouse with a Special 15% Discount off all refreshments.

Be tempted to start that early Christmas shopping with a range of delightful Gifts in the Shop.

Remember Children Go Free

TEL: 01929 551408 THE BLUE POOL, FURZEBROOK, WAREHAM, DORSET, BH20 5AR

SELF STORAGE UNITS TO LET (for private use)

CAMERAS & BINOCULARS WANTED

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

01202 862886

All Grass Landscapes

We are an independent local company that specializes in all aspects of landscaping.

Insulated, Individually Alarmed for Furniture, Classic Cars or Documents

East Stoke, Wareham

Tel: 07836 369969 E: mb@malcolmbarnes.co.uk www.purbeckselfstorage.co.uk

• Supply & install any size and type of artificial lawn • Any size of hard or soft landscaping, including: lawns, fencing, decking, etc.

• Over 15 years experience For a free, no obligation quote, please call Will on 01929 503135 or 07522 987090

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

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DRAIN UNBLOCKING Fixed quote work Replacement Doors Laminate Flooring Decking Truss & Cut Roofing General Carpentry General Building Maintenance

Call Peter Albin

Mobile 07834 983022 Home 01929 425048

www.totalwoodwork.co.uk

• Toilets • Sinks • Baths • Showers • Sewers • Soakaways • Camera Surveys • Drain Repairs & New Installations 24/7

01929 666 226 www.dorsetdrainunblocking.co.uk

Gasways Heating 367 High Street, Swanage, BH19 2NP ALL HEATING SERVICES INCLUDING: • • • • •

Boilers Installed Full Central Heating Systems Boiler Maintenance and Breakdowns Domestic and Commercial All LPG work undertaken

ALSO ALL GENERAL PLUMBING

T: 01929 427713 M: 07889 409584 www.gaswaysheating.co.uk

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Community News

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Brand New Dorset Architectural Heritage Week (Heritage Open Days) 2019 Programme Is Out Now! The hugely popular Dorset Architectural Heritage Week (Heritage Open Days) will be returning once again this September and the brand new 2019 programme, containing details of all the properties taking part this year, launches this week!

The programme is available digitally from www.dahw.org.uk and over 6,000 printed copies of the programme are available from local libraries and Tourist Information Centres throughout Dorset.

With over 200 events taking place across 64 different venues the 2019 programme of events is a celebration of the finest architectural gems that Dorset has to offer, and every one of them is completely free! There are a number of new events alongside several returning favourites from previous years, with water mills, museums, private houses, stately homes, cemeteries, town halls, churches and even a few air raid shelters there really is something for everyone!

Although this is the 26th consecutive Heritage Week,

sadly, the future of the event in 2020 and beyond is at risk.

The event sponsors who have supported Heritage Week for the last 10 years are unable to do so this year and organisers will be unable to continue unless they can find new sponsors for the future. Anyone who knows or represents an organisation, group or company that may be able to help can get in touch with the organisers on 01202 888992 or dahwoffice@gmail.com to find out more.

A week of free events celebrating Dorset’s rich historic environment

13th-22nd September 2019

An East Dorset Heritage Trust Event

www.dahw.org.uk

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I N FO R M AT I O N DAY

SWANAGE SCHOOL, HIGH STREET, SWANAGE BH19 2PH

Wednesday 30th October 10am – 2pm

FREE ENTRY AND REFRESHMENTS

Swanage Town Cryer will be presenting the Mayor of Swanage (Mike Bonfield) - who will be opening the event.

• DEMENTIA FRIENDS AWARENESS • CRIME PREVENTION • COOKERY DEMO • FINANCIAL PLANNING • BEFRIENDING GROUPS • SOCIAL CARE • SCAM AWARENESS • SPORTS AND LEISURE • ON SITE PARKING EXCELLENT PUBLIC TRANSPORT LINKS DIRECTLY TO THE DOOR. IF YOU NEED HELP WITH TRANSPORT WE MAY BE ABLE TO HELP. PLEASE CONTACT US FOR FURTHER DETAILS.

50PLUSDORSET.CO.UK FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: 01202 882 936 | EMMA@FCDOUCH.CO.UK

1947_50+_Information_Day_Swanage_Oracle_128x185mm_AW.indd 1

09/08/2019 15:18

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Household tips Longer Lasting Flowers A quick idea to help your lovely fresh cut flowers to last longer, is to pop a copper penny into the vase of water along with a cube of sugar. The idea if that the copper from the penny acts like a acidifier so it prevents bacteria growth so your flowers last longer!

We Supply and Fit Blinds to Suit Your Budget Free No Obligation Quotations We are a family run business established since 2001.

We have recently relocated to South Dorset and are now establishing our business services in this area.

We pride ourselves on customer service providing a wide range of products and price ranges to suit the budget of individual customers.

• • • • • •

Roller Blinds Vertical Blinds Wood Venetian Blinds Faux Wood Venetian Blinds Metal Venetian Blinds Roman Blinds

• • • •

Pleated Blinds Vision Blinds Visage Blinds Motorised Options Available (on selected blinds) • Blinds Supplied and fitted to commercial & private sectors

Computer Problems?

For prompt and friendly help call Alan on:

01929 480529 or 07710 835905

E-mail & internet support • Wireless network & printer setup • PC & Laptop repairs • Virus removal Custom-built PCs • Home & Small Business visits No call-out charge • Over 20 years experience

www.ajvcomputing.co.uk

Tel. 01929 781297 or Mob. 07770841196 alchemyblinds.co.uk email. alchemyblinds@gmail.com

35 years experience. Installation & repairs. Bathrooms, central heating & general plumbing work undertaken. Fully Insured.

Labour is guaranteed for 12 months.

Email: candcplumbing@btinternet.com www.candcplumbingservices.co.uk

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

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Spring Harvest Local THURSDAY OCTOBER 3rd 2019 at 7.30pm (doors open at 7pm)

VENUE: EMMANUEL BAPTIST CHURCH, SWANAGE, BH19 1AZ Spring Harvest is an event which takes place annually in April at several large venues around the country with around 20,000 people attending each year. We are greatly privileged, therefore, that Spring Harvest have offered to bring a team to Swanage on 3rd October for an evening of great teaching, vibrant worship and exciting fellowship. Come and join us for what promises to be an amazing evening - church as you’ve never imagined it perhaps! A warm welcome awaits you, your family and your friends.

Local contact and ticket sales: Tim Silk (silks423@gmail.com) 01929 423931 07708 668357 Or visit: www.springharvest.org/local

This will be a ticket only event (ÂŁ8) and although tickets will be available on the day, it will be cheaper to buy them in advance. Bulk-buy discounts and other discounts may be available. Contact Tim Silk for more details.

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Wildlife News

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Talking about Wildlife...

Nurdles: the damage they are doing in our ocean The Great British Beach Clean is an annual autumnal event to clean beaches in the UK, removing unsightly litter which is harmful to both people and wildlife. In Dorset, our beaches are amongst the best in the UK, so it’s important that we look after them.

Marine litter comes in all shapes and sizes. Many people think of plastic bags and bottles, but the presence of tiny beads of plastic called ‘nurdles’ in our seas are causing increasing concern. They have been found in their hundreds of thousands at Kimmeridge Bay in Dorset alone. Nurdles are small plastic pellets which, when melted together, are used by industry to make nearly all our plastic products. The lightweight nurdles can escape into the environment, spilling into rivers and oceans during transportation. It is thought that billions are lost in the UK each year. They pose a huge danger to wildlife, as they can be easily mistaken for fish eggs and swallowed by seabirds, fish and even crabs and lobsters. They can also soak up the toxins from their surroundings which then

Nurdle meter at Wild Seas Centre Photo: Sarah Hodgson

Nurdles at Kimmeridge Bay Photo: DWT

accumulate in the tissues of the animals that eat them.

Plastic is durable and will be around for a long time. In 2016, conservationists at Kimmeridge Bay found a lolly stick which had a figurine on top, which was made in 1978 – an example of just how durable and long-lasting plastic can be. So, what we do now, really does matter for future generations.

It is hoped that more people than ever will take part in the Great British Beach Clean from 20th – 23rd September this year. But you don’t have to wait - Dorset Free Litter and Sea is asking everyone, at any time of the year, to do a ‘2-minute beach clean’ when they are visiting a beach in Dorset. There are 10 beach cleaning stations in Dorset, including Chesil Beach (next to the Dorset Wildlife Trust visitor Centre), Swanage and Studland which provide bags and litter pickers.

If you’d like to take part in the Great British Beach Clean this year with Dorset Wildlife Trust, visit www. dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/events to find out about our beach cleans in Dorset.

By Sally Welbourn

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10% off your first clean with this advert

01202 705045

ovenking.co.uk - info@ovenking.co.uk Oven and Range Cleaning Hob and Extractor Cleaning Carpet Cleaning End of Tenancy Cleaning All operators DBS checked

Heatcare (UK) Ltd is a local family run, OFTEC and Gas Safe registered, plumbing and heating company!

Heatcare are able to cater to your needs be it services, repairs or installations and we are able to carry out these services in both domestic and commercial sectors. Along with offering these services in Oil, we can also offer the same in LPG and mains Gas, again, in both domestic and commercial fields.

• Worcester Accredited Installers • Up to 8/10 year warranties on oil/gas boilers • Oil tank replacements and new installations • 10 month interest free credit on all Worcester boilers To book your service or free no obligation quote contact us on

01305 853970 or 07557 990715 or email us at heatcareukltd@aol.com

Visit our website:

www.heatcareukltd.com

Upton Farm, Upton, Ringstead, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8NE

Over 4000 satisfied customers a year!

Commercial Enquires Welcome

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Going Green...

I have great respect for Sir David Attenborough. His recent campaign to make us all much more aware of our current planet problems and just how much we need to care for it, inspired me to do something about it. We are all individuals, and as a team of individuals working together, we can keep our environment safe and prevent unnecessary decay and destruction.

With that in mind I took an honest look at how much plastic I really use. How many items do I possess, and use on a daily basis, that have plastic bottles?

When you really look it is a minefield. We have become so used to plastic, we don’t even see it. It is quite shocking. Becoming overwhelmed usually means nothing gets done as it all seems too much, so it is best to look at the problem one step at a time. My plan in the next few months is to look at some everyday products that can be replaced by not only plastic free containers, but products which are actually BETTER for YOU too!

I looked in the bathroom… and saw no end of shiny, colourful plastic bottles. Oh dear. Soap. Since when did we start purchasing soap in bottles? This is so easy to replace with good quality, wonderful smelling natural soaps. These soaps not only have enhancing properties for your skin, they do not at all harm the environment! I am particularly

fond of the lemongrass soap, but if you look on the website you will see many more. All “Friendly” soaps are Free from Palm Oil, Parabens, Sulphates, Triclosan, Phthalates and Cruelty, as well as being boxed in plastic free recycled (and recyclable) packaging.

Another product (I had at least 3 different plastic bottles of) was shampoo! Again, there are some much more natural products, that leave you hair soft and shiny, are good for your scalp AND are not stored in plastic containers! There is one on the opposite page for you to see. I tried it and have been amazed by the results!

Finally, deodorant. I have tried natural products in the past and been highly disappointed. This one on the following page is incredible. “Earth Conscious” deodorant is aluminium free, paraben free and contains no carcinogens or toxins allowing your body to perspire as nature intended.

The packaging is PLASTIC FREE, recyclable and lightweight, making them perfect for travelling.

If you would like to know more about the products please feel free to visit my website at debbiegoesgreen.wikaniko.com or give me a call on 01202 894397 as I would love to hear from you.

Let’s get plastic free!

Debbie Corney

Order yours today from:

debbiegoesgreen.wikaniko.com Or call 01202 894397. You can also request a free catalogue to look at all our plastic free items!

Email: hello@debbiegoesgreen.uk

Community News

16

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Dorset & Wight Wills Your Local Experts in drafting and registering your

LASTING POWER of ATTORNEY Probably the most important documents you will ever own.

Wills & Power of Attorneys - £140 each

Special Offer 1: Both Lasting Power of Attorneys for a single person £270 (save £10)

Special Offer 2: All four Lasting Power of Attorneys for a couple £530 (save £30)

Special Offer 3: All four Lasting Power of Attorneys and two Wills for a couple £798 (save £42)

Special Offer 4: A complete Property Protection Trust, Wills and all four Lasting Power of Attorneys for a couple - Limited time offer £999 (save £350) Protect your assets from paying for care fees and other third-party predators.

We are specialists in providing for the elderly or less mobile. Everything is dealt with in the comfort of your own home.

All home visits are completely FREE of charge.

Members of the Society of Will Writers and Estate Planning Practitioners.

Book your FREE home visit now on 01202 065953 or 01983 623900 Ferndown, Dorset and Isle of Wight

www.dorsetandwight.co.uk

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What’s On 2019…

14th September 2019

Park to Pier Walk: History and Wildlife Durlston Castle, Lighthouse Road, Swanage, BH19 2JL A guided walk from Durlston Park to Swanage Pier, discovering Wild Life, History and Geology. Meet at 10.30 Cost £3.

18th September 2019 Pollinators Walk at Kingston Lacy Kingston Lacy, Wimborne, BH21 4EA Enjoy a walking tour of the garden with one of the Kingston Lacy rangers, discovering more about different types of pollinators and learning how your garden can give them a helping hand. £12 per person (includes cream tea).

Normal admission applies.

19th to 22nd September 2019 Wellbeing by the Lake Festival Pallington, Dorchester, DT2 8QU Wellbeing by the Lakes is a four-day festival exploring what it means to be mindful and live well in this fastpaced modern world. A curated blend

of expert talks, live performance, meditation, movement sessions, wholesome food and healing therapies and more. Contact 07720 637 808.

20th September 2019 The Firefly Outdoor Cinema Brownsea Island, Poole Harbour, Poole, BH13 7EE Join us on the unique and beautiful Brownsea Island, Poole to watch TOP GUN (12) under the stars. Bring your own picnic blankets or camping chairs.

Arrive early to enjoy our stocked bar and delicious food.

Please choose your ferry route and time… Price £7 to £11 per tickets 01628 302 125.

22nd September 2019 Littledown Centre Wedding Exhibition BH Live Active, Littledown, Chaseside, Bournemouth, BH7 7DX With 50 local professional wedding suppliers. 2 Professional choreographed catwalk shows at 12noon & 2pm.

FREE “GOLDEN ENVELOPES” prize draw.

FREE Goody Bag for every bride.

Exclusive offers & discounts on the day.

27th August 2019 Geno Washington & Ram Jam Band

Highcliffe Sports & Social Club, Christchurch. BH23 5EG Internationally known, and been on the road since the mid-60’s a sound that evokes the 60’s, not a night to miss.

Tickets £22 pay on entry.

28th & 29th September 2019 South West Model Show The Tank Museum, Bovington, BH20 6JG The Tank Museum will be inviting exhibitors from across the UK to exhibit their models throughout the Museum.

Miniature, Remote Control and Scale models will all be in attendance. Over two days, view a large selection of exhibitors from across the modelling spectrum ranging from boats, planes, motor racing cars and of course militaria and armoured warfare models.

29th September 2019 Miranda Sykes Tour comes to Chettle Village Hall Chettle Village Hall, Chettle, DT11 8DB Miranda Sykes, the acclaimed singer and bassist with ‘Show of Hands’ returns in 2019 with a new album and UK tour. After a career spanning over 20 years, during which time she has played with many of the top musicians and singers within the folk world, she will be touring solo as she started out: One woman, one bass, and one guitar.

07776 323 198.

29th September 2019 Rockpool Ramble Wild Seas Centre, Kimmeridge, Wareham, BH20 5PE Join a warden as we wander along the beach to discover what fascinating seashore wildlife can be spotted in Kimmeridge Bay, the best rockpooling site in Dorset. We will follow the Seashore Code to avoid causing any harm and find out what we can all do to help marine wildlife. 01929 481044.

3rd to 5th October 2019 One Man Two Guvnors The Regent Centre, C’church, BH23 1AS Fired from his skiffle band, Francis Henshall becomes minder to Roscoe Crabbe, a small time East End hood, now in Brighton to collect £6,000 from the dad of his fiancée. For more details phone 01202 449 199.

5th October 2019 Westbourne Farmers Market Landseer Road, Westbourne, BH4 9EH Westbourne is the backdrop for a fabulous selection of artisan breads, vegetables, cheese, meats, plants and much more.

To keep up to date with what’s on in Dorset go to:

www.WhatsOnInDorset.co.uk

Community News

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Local Charities and Organisations set to benefit from Bluebird Care (Purbeck and Wareham) Community Grants A local care provider has decided to start a monthly Community Grant. These sums of money can benefit any local group in Purbeck and Wareham working with older people or working to address loneliness in our community.

The group that can best demonstrate a need for additional support will be allocated the funds. Application forms are available by sending an e-mail to purbeck@ bluebirdcare.co.uk with the subject ‘Community Grant’.

Bluebird Care opened its office in Purbeck and Wareham three years ago, and ever since has been working hard to support other organisations in the community.

Bluebird Care offers a realistic alternative to residential care by allowing people to stay in their own homes with care and support.Their work can involve one or more short visits a day in order to help with the everyday tasks of life.

Commenting, Ross Perkins, Director of Bluebird Care said, “As well as providing care and companionship services to people living in their own homes, Bluebird Care is passionate about supporting community projects and initiatives.

So many neighbourhoods thrive because of volunteers who work tirelessly to run community groups, host events and provide services that benefit others.

Much of this work involves supporting older people who, without regular coffee mornings, day-trips or lunch clubs, would be left isolated at home.”

However, their homecare service doesn’t stop there because longer duration visits are also available, including overnight help and live in care.

For further information about Bluebird Care’s homecare and support services across the Purbeck and Wareham area, please contact the team on 01929 500515 or by emailing purbeck@bluebirdcare.co.uk.

For more information visit:

www.bluebirdcare.co.uk/ purbeck-wareham

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CANDY

WINKS

Care visits at home We care passionately

For many people the questions about care don’t arise until suddenly, there is a n e e d .

Home care with Bluebird Care can be anything from a 30 minute care visit to 24 hours live in care, supporting you to remain as independent as possible, living the lifestyle you choose.

Call and talk to one of our friendly professionals today:

01929 500515 purbeck@bluebirdcare.co.uk bluebirdcare.co.uk /purbeck-wareham We are independently regulated

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The Adventures of Daichi

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The Adventures of Daichi

The Purbeck Publications Camper Van Alaska. A trip of a lifetime. Well it certainly was. Way too far for Daichi’s slender wheels, we set off for the airport, all eager to arrive at our foreign destination, Seattle, to sail the waves to a place I had always wanted to go – Alaska.

Our first day in Seattle was gorgeous.

Seattle itself is quite a town. The Crab Pot is a local attraction with every kind of seafish you can imagine. Being typically British we found a bench overlooking Elliott Bay. It was picturesque. Boats, shimmering blue water and mountains. This set the pace for the rest of the week.

Boarding “The Norwegian Joy” was exhilarating. The excitement built up as we walked towards this absolutely huge, billiondollar construction. Believe me, I know this is not for everyone, but when you look at the ingenuity of this engineering feat, it is awe inspiring. 3800 passengers and 1800 crew.

That’s a lot. We chose this ship as Hayden, as well as myself and Stephen needed entertaining. As you know Hayden is much younger than I am. Daichi does remind me of that! This ship has a full sized Speedway on deck 16, a Laser Quest on deck 17 and a water chute (literally, the floor opens up and you shoot down a figure of 8 tube, off the boat and back again), as well as electronic racing cars, a 7D experience, full theatre, 9

Once in a lifetime moment...

A black bear having its lunch! restaurants (I think…) and swimming pools, jacuzzis, beauty salon, shops and bars to your hearts content.

Day 1 Ketchikan and the black bears. We saw them! These bears are wild, not fed by any humans and it is a real privilege to see them in their own habitat, swimming, eating and walking around. We were really lucky as the earlier team had not managed to see any.

Stephen and Hayden had great fun taking photos! I got some video on the phone too.

What an amazing experience.

Day 2, my favourite, Juneau and whale watching! Juneau itself is a spiritually energizing place. You can only get here by boat or plane. There are no roads leading here. Surrounded by mountains tipped in ice, with glaciers falling like ice cream, the sun shining in the scintillating blue sky, it was an idyllic day. I stood at the back of the small boat we had boarded with the breeze blowing through my tousled hair looking for a tail, a movement in the water, or any sign of that whale I had always longed to see. Then, in the distance I saw the black V shape of a tail, coming at quite some speed towards us. Hardly breathing, my eyes did not flicker. I stood, frozen to the spot in delirious anticipation. The whale breached right in front of us, the boat rocked sideways

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

23 and everyone yelled in excitement. I clicked my phone held on camera, twice. The whale then rolled around in the water and held its fin high for us to see and flapped it down as if waving to us, several times before swimming off into the distance again. What an encounter. My heart was beating like a drum. Then… I looked at my photos on my phone and what I saw I could not believe.

Two perfect pictures of the whale breaching before me. I screamed out in delight and jumped up and down. Yes me, I am nearly 55 years old and I looked and sounded like I was 5! It was truly emotional and an experience I will never forget. The driver of the boat was astounded at what had happened. We continued our sail to an island lodge with no electricity or running water. Here we ate fresh salmon cooked on a barbecue and looked blissfully at the stunning scenery which surrounded us. A perfect day.

Day 3 The Captain of the “Joy” skilfully sailed up very narrow passageways to the Dawes Glacier. Can you imagine sailing peacefully through blue floating ice pieces towards a moving mass of a river of ice? It is unbelievably humbling. Nature is truly at its best. We were able to stand on the balcony and gaze at this triumph of Mother Earth lying majestically before us. Incredible.

Day 4 we were at Skagway. More North and what we thought would be the coldest area, but no, again we were blessed with blue skies. Driving into the countryside we arrived at our raft for the morning! Yes, we rafted on grey glacial waters only two hours or so old, through the valley with steep mountains on

Grey water floating... Eagle spotting!

Dawes Glacier, end of Endicott Arm all sides and bald eagles standing proudly along the river’s edge. We were told stories of Shaman and their tribes, and could otherwise marvel at the rugged but beautiful terrain.

Day 5 was a sailing day. I love sailing. Hayden, who had found friends from all over the world at the “Entourage” group which get 13 -17 olds together, was able to have some ‘teenage time’, while we were able to sit on the balcony, eat at the restaurants, sit in the jacuzzi, have a massage and generally relax.

Amazing.

Day 6 we arrived at Victoria, Canada. Now, if we go back again, and believe me I intend to, I would go into the town or the park here.

There were some lovely looking horse drawn carts at the port. We had chosen to try and see killer whales, but with a blustery evening and choppy waters we did not have much chance. We did see sea lions though and could see the Washington Mountains in the distance.

The whole holiday was one of new experiences and excitement. I was totally taken with Alaska. I learned all about the The Goldrush, and am now reading a novel called “I married the Klondike” written by a school teacher of that time, in 1907.

Hayden did not want to leave. All three of us were very quiet waiting at the gate to be ‘let out’ and go home. Life is full of experiences and this was one of the very best. Daichi will have to work hard to top this!

By Debbie Corney

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Gardening Tips

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On Your Plot Herb Gardens

Nature tends to dictate what we do in the garden.and.someti.mes.it’s.just.too.late.to.plant. those.seeds,.too.early.to.prune.that.bush.and. incredibly.you.are.already.on.top.of.the.weeding...

So.what.can.you.do.to.fulfi.l.that.urge.to.work.the. land?..Why.start.a.herb.garden.of.course!

Jobs for September :-

• If you are growing pumpkins for Halloween, you need to support the fruit as it swells and raise it up to keep it off the wet ground and deter slugs.

Restrict each plant to no more than three fruits.

• Clear up finished crops, clean and store any supports or netting for future use.

• Keep planting winter lettuces for a supply of fresh leaves right through autumn.

• Fancy fresh strawberries next year? Now is a good time to get new plants established.

• Add support to Brussels sprouts by drawing up earth around the stems, or using canes.

Most activity on your plot is tied to the seasons, but this month we take a look at one project that can be started off at almost any time of the year - your own herb garden.

As we’ve taken to growing more and more of our own food so we have found ourselves getting increasingly interested in trying out new recipes to make the most of all those lovely fresh flavours.

Recipe books abound in our kitchen and they all have one thing in common - the use of herbs, and what a variety of them there is!

Whether you’re looking for a sprig of fresh mint, a handful of rosemary, or some chopped chives what could be better than being able to choose and harvest them right outside your own back door?

Choosing the right site for your herb garden is important, and outside your back door is often a good place to start! Planting near the kitchen makes it easy to pop out for a few fresh leaves when you are cooking, and many of us have a patio which can easily become home to a variety of container grown herbs. Herbs can make an

attractive, fragrant and tasty addition to your borders, or you may prefer to opt for a permanent herb bed. If this is the case you will need to give some consideration to containing the growth of some of the more vigorous varieties. This can be done by dividing the bed (a cartwheel design made with bricks is very attractive), or by using pots sunk into the ground.

Herbs comprise of both annual plants, that germinate, grow, flower and die within the year, and perennials that will grow on from one year to the next. Whatever you plant, you will need to find out which type it is and the conditions that it favours. The more hardy perennial types such as thyme, rosemary or mint may be happy outside all year round. One of the advantages of using containers is that tender varieties can be moved under cover during the worst of the winter and even tender annuals like basil can have their season extended by lifting plants to pot up and keep on the kitchen windowsill as autumn approaches.

Most types of herb can be raised from seed, but for a quicker start browse the farmers market, garden centre, or even car boot sales for plants that are ready to go.

One of the great things about a herb garden is that it can be continually evolving. Look upon it as just the start of a collection, that will grow with time. Adding a new variety can be as simple as picking up a plant that takes your fancy on a trip out and adding a new pot to your collection.

As well as using herbs fresh from the garden, you can dry leaves by hanging in bunches and then storing in an airtight container, or use ice cube trays to freeze chopped up leaves with a drop of water. Store the cubes in polythene bags, great for adding to a stew in the middle of winter!

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Short Story: THE RESCUE...

Golden sand whipped the walls of my watch tower as I stood like a sentry watching over the dark, blue, menacing sea. Binoculars to my eyes, I searched for anything that shouldn’t be there - at least not in this storm. Waves at least ten feet tall stood proud before toppling over and emitting an enormous sound as the water slammed into either more water or sand. White foam covered the first 10 metres out from the water’s edge where all the waves deposited their immense amount of energy. All of a sudden, a peachy white hand shot out from under the water then sank again (I almost missed it, it happened so fast).

Tiny pricks stabbed at my exposed face as I ran to the water’s edge; the wind howled at me not go out, waves presenting their terrible force as they crashed in front of me. Dark clouds rumbled in the distance waiting to unleash their own fury. I was watching like a hawk, my eyes scanning the sea for any signs of that person. Suddenly, the same hand, however this time two, appeared for another split second and disappeared as a wave, the size of my watch tower, engulfed them. I had to rescue them. They needed me. But what if I couldn’t do it? What if I made the situation worse? Could I take that risk? Yes. I grabbed the almost 11-foot, luminous yellow board and sprinted into the ferocious beast…

The icy water stole my breath as my chest seized up and my legs started to freeze. The board slammed the surface of my enemy and I leaped out of the heat sapping liquid onto it; my hands went numb as I paddled, ploughing them into the water trying to power through and get to my target as quick as I could.

My body ached, my arms burned, I couldn’t take it much longer. But they needed me.

CRASH! A wave smacked my board, it almost entirely threw me off, as white foam surrounded me: I saw another coming, but it hadn’t broken yet. The rounded tip pierced and glided through the up rise of water like nothing. Immediately, I saw what was behind that puny wave… the king wave of the set I had just driven through swelled up and began racing towards me like a miniature tsunami. Moments later and I could see the dangerous white foam starting to spread across the crest. Either it had to break before it reached me, or I had to reach it before it started to plunge down on top of me.

The race was on.

My arms screamed in pain, my chest struggled to keep the supply of oxygen I needed, and I could no longer feel my hands. Numbness was slowly creeping over my body, its tendrils reaching out to every part dispersing any feeling I had there. I hope I can make it, I thought, as the king wave and I flew towards each other.

It had not broken. Yet. However, I could see the crest creating a lip (it was starting to pitch over itself). It was about to break. Every part of my body wanted to give up and let the monstrous wall of water take me down with it, but I couldn’t let that happen. As I approached the wave my board started to rise, and I could see the water rushing towards me. I grasped my board and elevated my body as my board and I almost started to go vertical. I closed my eyes; I could do no more but hope…

A thunderous discharge of energy pounded my ears. Did I survive?

I opened my eyes to see my fluorescent board and I still together: my body still in the rigid position I had assumed. I peered behind me and saw huge amounts of white foam where the gigantic wave had plummeted into the water. Better luck next time, Poseidon , I thought, as I chuckled to myself and started to paddle again. My board gently rose and fell as swells of anticipated waves flowed past me.

My perceptions snapped into action as I searched for the person I had come all this way for. A quick glance and I saw them: floating and unmoving. They needed me. I rapidly paddled over and in a flash was in the water flipping over my board; I grabbed their arms and placed them over my now upside-down

rescue craft. Balancing my adrenaline filled muscles and trying to be as careful as I could, I heaved the board back over as I held the person’s arms so that they followed its motion.

Eventually, they lay perpendicular on my own lifeline. I twisted their body so that they were parallel and I could get on – it’s imperative for me to be on the board too. I swam round and faced my own saviour (the board) towards the golden sands where waves, still deathly aggressive, slammed into the beach. With a mighty pull on the handles, I slid onto the rear of the craft before engaging in the foreboding journey back.

As I madly paddled towards safety with an unconscious body in front of me, I could feel the swells getting larger. This was it. I had done the first segment, but could I do the same again? Numbness had already conquered any feeling I had left, except the ones I didn’t want. All I could feel was the torture I was putting myself through: burning arms, burning chest, burning blood vessels as they fought to supply any energy they could scrape for me. My wetsuit tugged at my weakening arms and my hands began to splash the saltwater onto my face. I couldn’t do it. I could see that ten metre stretch of deadly white spray as the board cut through my enemy.

While paddling, I felt the back of my board start to rise – a wave. I shifted my body backwards so that we didn’t nosedive into the glacial like water. It was enough, at least for now. The person I had rescued and I rode the wave towards the shore like a soaring seagull, as we raced with the wave. The wave grew bigger, stronger and more powerful the further we rode it towards safety. It was getting too large though, I couldn’t put enough of my weight rearwards. The nose of my board began to sink, water and salt flew into my eyes. It stung. It was as if wasps were sending their stingers straight into my eyes.

It happened too quickly.

The board dug its nose into the water and the corpse-like body and I tumbled off.

My arms were too weak, they felt like lead, I couldn’t grasp anything - the board nor the person. The salt blinded me and my body sank beneath the waves. Was this it? Was this the end? I couldn’t do it. But I had come all this way… no. They needed me. Whoever I had tried to save hadn’t been saved just yet. I can’t give up, not after all of this. Strength surged into my muscles, adrenaline fuelled my heart and my own lifeless body began to twitch as I fought the reapers wrath and began to swim to the surface. My head burst out the water, instantly looking around wildly for my board or the person.

Something was floating (it was too dark to be my board). I swam as if I had suddenly become an Olympic swimmer. Although my muscles were on fire and my eyes felt like they were melting, I carried on. I wrapped my arm around that other body and frantically kicked my legs and swung my arm under the water. I was so close; another eight metres and I was there – the final length. All alarms were ringing in my body, reverberating around my skull, telling me to stop what I was doing and give up. That wasn’t an option. Waves piled on top of us making my back sear in pain. I couldn’t let go. Not now. As if by a miracle, my foot kicked something underneath me, it was sand! I charged out of the water like a bull, still carrying the person I had rescued. I had done it. Dripping wet and icy cold I dragged the person toward my watch tower. I could now truly look at them without the danger of a wave engulfing us.

I placed her on a chair and, with a shaking hand, dialled 999. Without hesitation, the lady at the other end had sent us an ambulance and told me we were going to be alright.

The emergency services were on their way. I had done my duty.

I sat down next to the lady I had rescued, my entire body shivering as I did, and I gently took hold of her hand and closed my eyes. Within seconds, I blacked out next to her still with her hand in mine.

by Hayden Corney - age 15

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Food & Drink

Tastes so good...

TOMATO SOUP

As the weather turns slightly colder as we venture into Autumn, there is nothing more perfect than a warming tomato soup. You can add croutons to give it an extra crunch or you can even top it off with basil leaves if you want to dress it up.

Serves 4 Ingredients: 1 tbsp. butter 2 garlic cloves 3 x 400g cans plum tomatoes 500ml vegetable stock 5 soft sun dried tomatoes in oil 1tsp. sugar 125g pot fresh basil pesto 142ml pot soured cream

Equipment: Large pan Method: In a large plan, heat 1 tbsp. of butter (or oil if you prefer) and then crush the garlic cloves and add to the pan.

Do this on a low heat for roughly 3 minutes until the garlic has softened. Then, add the chopped tomatoes and the canned tomatoes. Once you have done this, add the sugar, stock and seasoning. Turn up the heat and bring the soup mixture to a simmer. Let it simmer for 10 minutes until the tomatoes have broken down then take off the heat.

With a stick blender, whizz the whole mixture together. Add half the sour cream and continue to use to stick blender. Make sure to taste as you go to adjust the seasoning or alternatively add more sugar if you prefer. When it is all blended, serve the soup into bowls.

You can either add more sour cream into the bowl or add some pesto on top.

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Index of advertisers

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

Aerials Wessex Aerials........................................................... 29

Foot Care Services West Dorset Mobile Foot Clinic................................. 21

Attractions The Blue Pool.............................................................. 6

Funeral Directors James Smith................................................................ 9

Bedrooms Custom Creations...................................................... 31

Garage Doors Garolla........................................................................ 2

Blinds, Curtains & Shutters Alchemy Blinds.......................................................... 10 Ashley Blinds............................................................... 3 Duck & Rabbit Interiors............................................. 25

Garden Services All Grass Landscapes.................................................. 6

Builders Jim Baggley Building Services..................................... 5 Purbeck Home Improvements.................................... 1 Cameras Rocky Rock Cameras................................................... 6 Carpenters Total Woodwork - Peter Albin..................................... 7 Community News Adventures of Daichi................................................. 22 Dorset Architectural Heritage Week Programme....... 8 Dorset Wildlife Trust: Nurdles: damaging our oceans............................... 12 Going Green.............................................................. 14 Local Charities and Organisations set to benefit from Bluebird Care (P & W) Community Grants.............. 20 On your plot: Herb gardens....................................... 24 Short story: The Rescue............................................. 26 Tastes so good: Tomato soup..................................... 28 Together for Alzheimer’s 2019................................... 16 What’s On in Dorset.................................................. 18 Computer Services AJV Computing.......................................................... 10 Drainage Services All Drains Cleared...................................................... 19 Dorset Drain Unblocking............................................ 7 Eco Friendly Products Bare Necessities......................................................... 25 Debbie Goes Green.................................................... 15 Electricians M Gymer Electrical..................................................... 5 Events & Entertainment Emmanuel Baptist Church: Spring Harvest Local....... 11 Project Play: Dad’s Army............................................ 3

Home Care Services Bluebird Care............................................................. 21 Oven Cleaners Oven King.................................................................. 13 Pest Control Terminator Pest......................................................... 13 Plumbers C + C Plumbing........................................................... 10 CM Plumbing & Heating............................................ 25 FXR Heating & Plumbing............................................ 3 Gasways Heating........................................................ 7 Heatcare.................................................................... 14 Purbeck Plumbing, Heating & Drainage.................... 29 Property Maintenance Purbeck Home Improvements.................................... 1 Total Woodwork - Peter Albin..................................... 7 Removals & Storage Purbeck Self Storage................................................... 6 Roofing Mallwood Roofing..................................................... 29 Solicitors Humphries Kirk.......................................................... 32 Soft Furnishings Duck & Rabbit Interiors............................................. 25 Trailers Wessex Trailers.......................................................... 29 Waste Services Philip Trim Contractors............................................... 2 Will Writing Services Dorset & Wight Wills................................................. 17

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