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Holiday lets made easy

Stallion Property Management are holiday let experts covering Bournemouth, Poole and surrounding areas. We take care of your holiday let and boost your rental income. Our pricing ranges from 18-24% for a fully managed service of your rental income depending on the circumstances of your property.

• Listing on multiple platforms

• Price optimisation

• Hassle-free service

• Guest vetting & communication

• Perfect pictures

• Maintenance & repairs

• 24/7 Check-in

• Cleaning

• Guest support

Stallion Property Management - Just WOW! I can’t recommend this company enough, I want to shout it from the rooftops, these guys, Ross and Gary, are absolutely brilliant, professional, dynamic, excellent communication, honest, amazing taste, patient and understanding.

TRACY, BOURNEMOUTH

Contact us now for a free consultation. 01202 287351 contact@stallionpm.co.uk 18 Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, BH1 3NE stallionpropertymanagement.co.uk

Luxury shutters and blinds designed just for you!

Our custom-made shutters and blinds bring a blend of style and functionality to any space. Whether you prefer elegant shutters for privacy and light control or tailored blinds for a modern finish, we have the perfect solution. Our extensive range includes Roman, Roller, Venetian, and Vertical blinds, all made to measure to fit any window. With premium craftsmanship, expert fitting, and a no-obligation consultation, Insignia offers seamless service and a stunning finish every time. Call today for your free consultation!

Experience first-hand the elegance of our awnings and shutters with a showroom visit that lets you ‘test drive’ our finest offerings. Plus, enjoy our personalised service, where we come to you, hassle-free and without obligation!

Welcome

As the reets be n to inkle w h fe ive lights, we’re tran orted into a ma cal winter wonderland, where whi ers of Santa ll the air and the promise of erished moments ent w h those we love.

Step into the spirit of the season with Europe’s finest Christmas markets, from fairytale squares to festive foodie delights. Closer to home, the National Trust unveils its best-ever Christmas days out across Hampshire, packed with fairytales, pantos and magical moments for all ages. And for a luxurious escape on your doorstep, we check into Southampton’s Harbour Hotel for a night of pure indulgence—proving that the ultimate winter getaway doesn’t require travelling far. Back at home, we unwrap the décor trends making this Christmas sparkle— from joyful nutcrackercore to darkly decadent gothmas. And for the main event, Rick Stein serves up his expert tips for perfecting Christmas dinner, along with two standout recipes to elevate your table this year. We wish all our readers and advertisers a Merry Christmas— here’s to fairy lights, festive feasts and just one more mince pie.

ABOUT US

House & Lifestyle is a monthly magazine with approximately 150,000 readers and available in hundreds of outlets throughout Dorset and Hampshire. Pick up a free copy each month from supermarkets, newsagents, estate agents, theatres, garden centres, shopping centres, health clubs, hotels, train stations, bus stations, bars, clubs, restaurants, garages, doctors surgeries, dentists, cafes, pubs and many other retail outlets. House & Lifestyle magazine is published by GWP Marketing Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden except with the express permission of the publisher. The views expressed in House & Lifestyle are those of the contributors and are not necessarily shared by the magazine or its staff. GWP Marketing Ltd accepts no responsibility for content and / or advertising copy supplied by third parties.

Facebook @housemagdorset

Instagram @housemagazine_dorset

www.house-mag.co.uk

CONTRIBUTORS

GARY PEARCE PUBLISHER

gary@house-mag.co.uk | 01202 287165 ext #1

ROSS STALLION SALES DIRECTOR

ross@house-mag.co.uk | 01202 287165 ext #1

VICKY ANSCOMBE EDITOR

vi @house-mag.co.uk | 01202 287165 ext #2

HANNE-LISE BASSON ACCOUNT MANAGER

han@house-mag.co.uk | 01202 287165 ext #1

ENJOY A GLASS ON US AT THE IVY BOURNEMOUTH BRASSERIE

Step into a world of quintessential British dining at The Ivy Collection, where style meets sophistication. Indulge in over one hundred years of British hospitality at its finest and experience unforgettable dining from breakfast to dinner, seven days a week.

Make your next visit truly special with a complimentary glass of The Ivy Cuvée. Then, savour the best of contemporary and classic seasonal flavours with our Two-Course 1917 Heritage Menu - available Monday to Friday for just £20.95.

Whether you are celebrating a milestone or simply indulging in the everyday, join us at The Ivy Bournemouth for a dining experience that is nothing short of exceptional.

Scan to enjoy a complimentary glass of The Ivy Cuvée on your next visit.

INTERIORS

82 PORTMAN STONE

Elevating living spaces

85 ECO LOG BURNERS

Light up your Christmas

86 CUSTOM CREATIONS

The secret to a stress-free Christmas?

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

91 TINCLETON SOLAR SYSTEMS

Protecting your solar investment

OUTDOOR LIVING

100 THE LANDSCAPE SERVICE

Where outdoor design meets inspired living

LOCAL EVENTS

123 DORSET CRUISES

The perfect gift this Christmas

HEALTH & BEAUTY

126 SOUTHFACE DERMATOLOGY

A centre of excellence

READ ALL ABOUT IT

e late news ories in your area.

PIERZIP

ON BOURNEMOUTH PIER TAKES FLIGHT THIS CHRISTMAS WITH MAGICAL NIGHT RIDES OVER THE SEA!

Get ready for something truly spectacular this festive season as PierZip on Bournemouth Pier unveils its Christmas Night Flights — an electrifying after-dark zip line experience that lets thrill-seekers soar over the twinkling waves and into the lights of Bournemouth Beach!

Usually only open during daylight, PierZip lit up the night sky from 15th November and continues to do so until 20th December, offering guests a once-in-a-lifetime chance to zip across the sea under a canopy of Christmas lights.

The official launch night on Wednesday 13th November saw Santa himself take the plunge at 4pm, 5pm and 6pm, kicking off the celebrations before returning every Saturday evening until 20th December to bring festive cheer to the pier.

Tickets are just £15 per person, making it an unforgettable Christmas activity for families, friends and adventure lovers alike.

The PierZip Night Flights are proudly supported by Lamps & Amps, Hilton Bournemouth, Bournemouth Highcliff Marriott, and Hotel Collingwood, bringing together some of the town’s leading names to light up the coast this Christmas.

James Balcazar, Group Marketing Manager at Adventure Attractions, said:

PIERZIP www.rockreef.co.uk/pierzip

“We’re always looking for new ways to make Bournemouth Pier come alive, and seeing people zip across the water as the lights sparkle below is going to be something really special. It’s the perfect mix of festive fun and seaside adventure.”

Whether you’re zipping into Christmas with Santa, chasing the glow of the seafront lights, or simply watching the action from Key West Restaurant, this is a festive experience you won’t want to miss.

Santa Zips: 4pm, 5pm & 6pm – launch night and every Saturday until 20th December

Night Flights Open: 15th November – 20th December

Price: £15 per person

ILLUMINEYE LASHES WINS TOP CONSUMER AWARD

Ashley Cross-based beauty salon, IlluminEye Lashes & Brows, is celebrating after winning the coveted Consumer Award at The England Business Awards, Dorset, held at The Village Hotel in Bournemouth over the weekend.

The salon, founded five years ago by Rebecca Walton, was recognised for its exceptional customer service, professionalism, and strong reputation within the local community. The Consumer Award was the overall accolade across all categories, a significant achievement for the Poole-based business.

The England Business Awards is an independent organisation that holds annual regional and national award events across England. Businesses are nominated by the public and recognised for excellence, dedication, and contribution to their local economies.

For more information about Illumineye Lashes and its range of beauty treatments, visit www.illumineyelashes.com.

ILLUMINEYE LASHES www.illumineyelashes.com

COUNTING DOWN TO CHRISTMAS

Mayflower Southampton’s produced show, Counting Down to Christmas is back this festive season in Studio 2 at Mayflower Studios.

Counting Down to Christmas is a show made especially for very young audiences. It’s nearly Christmas, but Ebbie doesn’t care. They’re far too busy to bother with decorations, Christmas shopping is such a fuss, and they don’t even like mince pies!

But when a mysterious envelope is posted through Ebbie’s letterbox, it’s the start of a series of events that will change how Ebbie feels about Christmas forever.

With original music, colourful design and sensory elements, Counting Down to Christmas is full of surprises and festive magic. An enchanting adventure for little ones and their grown-ups from the creative team who brought you Second Star to the Right and Down the Rabbit Hole. All performances will be relaxed and baby friendly.

Tickets for Counting Down to Christmas (Friday 5 – Wednesday 24 December 2025) are on sale at mayflower.org.uk.

MAYFLOWER STUDIOS www.mayflower.org.uk

ADVENTURE ATTRACTIONS CELEBRATES

WINS AT THE 2025 DMB TOURISM AWARDS

Adventure Attractions is celebrating a standout year after scooping multiple accolades at the prestigious 2025 DMB Tourism Awards, recognising excellence across Dorset’s thriving visitor economy.

The company, which operates Bournemouth Pier, RockReef, Key West Bar & Restaurant, and The Castle Pantry at Highcliffe Castle, took home several major awards, including the Gold Award for RockReef in Attraction of the Year, and the coveted Gold Award for Team of the Year for Adventure Attractions itself.

These honours shine a spotlight on the company’s continued investment in the region’s hospitality and leisure industry, not just as an operator, but as a longterm contributor to Bournemouth’s local economy, sustainability, and tourism appeal.

Adventure Attractions has spent more than two decades restoring, revitalising, and reinventing Bournemouth Pier into a landmark destination that connects visitors, local suppliers, and the community.

By investing in renewable operations, sourcing locally where possible, and reinvesting profits back into their attractions, the business plays an active role in the circular economy, helping the local area thrive year after year.

Alongside its two Gold wins, The Castle Pantry at Highcliffe Castle and Key West

www.adventureattractions.co.uk

Bar & Grill were also recognised with Bronze Awards in the Café/Tearoom and Restaurant categories respectively, with Key West also earning a Bronze for Best Customer Service.

Sarah Hunter, Managing Director at Adventure Attractions, said:

“We’re incredibly proud to see our teams recognised for their passion, creativity and hard work. From our chefs and baristas to our climbing instructors and theatre crews, every member of the Adventure Attractions family plays a part in creating experiences that make Bournemouth and the surrounding area such a vibrant place to visit. These awards are a testament to that collective spirit.”

With a portfolio that includes some of Dorset’s most recognisable coastal attractions, Adventure Attractions continues to champion home-grown British entertainment, hospitality, and adventure tourism, ensuring Bournemouth Pier remains one of the South Coast’s most iconic and loved destinations.

DICK WHITTINGTON

As the classic rags-to-riches pantomime adventure, Dick Whittington seems like the perfect place for teenage dancer Corben Heward-Mills to cut his teeth in a professional principal cast.

Made in Poole especially for Lighthouse audiences, with writer-director Chris Jarvis and production designer James Smith, the pantomime tells the time-honoured story of a poor young man who goes in search of his fortune in London where he’s been told the streets are paved with gold. After many adventures he wins the hand of his true love and becomes Lord Mayor of London.

A year ago, A-level student Corben had just landed his first professional role – in the ensemble cast for Sleeping Beauty at Lighthouse. So impressive was his acrobatic dancing that Chris Jarvis contacted him about playing Tommy the Cat in Dick Whittington this year.

And now, aged 18 and with his A-levels behind him, Corben is studying at Laine Theatre Arts and making his cast debut in a professional production.

“I had no idea any of this was going to happen,” he says. “I thought I’d finish my last year at school and just go straight to uni. I didn’t even plan for panto last year. When it came up, I thought I might audition and a lot of my friends said I should go for it, so I did! And I got in. It was a total surprise, but it was fantastic. Everyone was so welcoming. It was such a thrill warming up together and just talking – good conversations; great lunches!

Corben graduated from LeAF Studio school in Bournemouth having also trained with First Position Dance School and won a scholarship to Matthew Bourne’s Cygnet School talent development programme last year. It would be easy for a less disciplined performer to get carried away, but even though physically he’s trained to fly through the air, metaphorically his feet are firmly on the ground!

LIGHTHOUSE, POOLE www.lighthousepoole.co.uk

But what of Tommy the Cat? Has he had to do any special preparation for the role?

“I’ve not seen Dick Whittington before, but I know the cat is a big part of the story. Have I practiced being a cat? Well, maybe in my dreams! It will be very physical, I know that much.”

Appearing as Tommy the Cat alongside CBeebies favourite Chris Jarvis as Dame Dolly Doughnuts and Poole-born, Bournemouthbred West End star Bernadette Bangura as Fairy Bowbelles – not to mention SarahLouise Young, the baddie in Sleeping Beauty last year, who is back to play the villainous King Rat in Dick Whittington – it’s a dream job for Corben who grew up in Bournemouth and can be sure of plenty of support from family and friends in the audience.

“I love making people happy, that’s my favourite thing, and panto is the best place for that. I think so. If you hear a good reaction from the audience, you know you’ve done a good show, instantly.”

Dick Whittington is sponsored by National Express and Raymond James and can be seen at Lighthouse Poole from Thursday 11 December until Sunday 4 January.

DOUBLE YOUR DONATIONS THIS DECEMBER

Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s disability charity, has an incredible opportunity to raise tens of thousands through the Big Give, but needs the public’s help to release this and realise the charity’s vision of funding a full year of speech and language therapy at Langside School.

The Big Give Christmas Challenge runs from midday on Tuesday 2 December to midday Tuesday 9 December with all donations made via the Big Give website being doubled for this week only. Therefore, a £10 donation will become £20 or a £50 donation will become £100, plus gift aid can be added if applicable.

The match funding is made up from a pledge from an individual who has supported the charity for a number of years, plus a pledge from The Reed Educational Trust Limited, which was achieved through the charity successfully applying for the Big Give Christmas Challenge.

Over 7 days, Diverse Abilities aim to reach a total target of £79,711 to fund a full year of speech and language therapy, plus the tools and training needed to make it work,

This transformative speech and language therapy can improve wellbeing for the whole family by giving the children who attend Langside School opportunities to make choices and express themselves, feel calm and understood and alert others to pain or discomfort.

DIVERSE ABILITIES www.diverseabilities.org.uk/biggive.

SPETISBURY CONSTRUCTION COMPLETES

MAJOR UPGRADES AT KINGSTON LACY VISITOR CENTRE AND CAR PARK

Dorset based Spetisbury Construction is delighted to announce the completion of major improvement works at the historic Kingston Lacy estate for the National Trust. The £3.5 million project, which began in September 2024, focused on enhancing visitor experience, accessibility, and sustainability across the site.

The extensive upgrades include a full refurbishment of the visitor car park, new and improved toilet facilities, and a reconfigured Welcome Centre building — all designed to improve accessibility, comfort, and flow for the thousands of visitors who enjoy the estate each year.

The car park has been completely resurfaced and landscaped, with improved drainage, increased disabled parking provision, new EV charging points, and a dedicated pedestrian walkway to enhance safety. Improvements to the overflow parking area also ensure the estate can better accommodate peak visitor periods.

SPETISBURY CONSTRUCTION www.spetisburyconstruction.co.uk

The Welcome Centre has been redesigned to create a more efficient and welcoming arrival experience, reducing queuing and improving accessibility. Behind the scenes, upgraded staff areas provide better working conditions for National Trust employees and volunteers. The main path from reception to the property has been regraded, creating a gentler slope for wheelchair users and visitors with reduced mobility.

The toilet facilities have undergone a full modernisation, with a new layout and finish that reflects the building’s historic use as an engine room for Kingston Lacy’s early electricity generator. The block now includes accessible toilets, a fully equipped Changing Places unit, and family-friendly facilities including baby-changing and buggy space. A new family quiet room has also been created, offering a calm and sensory-friendly environment for those who need it.

The newly upgraded facilities are now open, and visitors can once again enjoy a smoother, more accessible, and welcoming experience at Kingston Lacy.

The National Motor Museum exhibition

Racing Pride: Celebrating the LGBTQ+ Community in Motorsport has won the category of ‘Celebrating LGBTQ Sporting Heritage’ at the Sporting Heritage 2025 Awards. The Awards aim to recognise a breadth of activity taking place across the heritage sector, platforming voices which have been previously unheard, celebrating the breadth of sporting heritage which exists across the UK.

Director of Collections, Andrea Bishop and Senior Curator, Sarah Wyatt were there to accept the award along with Richard Morris of Racing Pride who worked closely with the Museum to put together the exhibition.

Racing Pride: Celebrating the LGBTQ+ Community in Motorsport set out to shine a light on the unique personal journeys of LGBTQ+ individuals across motorsport disciplines. While the physical exhibition has now closed, the Museum continues to tell the story through the website with an online exhibition.

THE NATIONAL MOTOR MUSEUM www.nationalmotormuseum.org.uk

The Renters’ Right Act 2025

What Landlords need to know

The Renters’ Rights Act 2025

The Renters’ Rights Bill has now passed through Parliament and received Royal Assent, making it the Renters’ Rights Act 2025. It will come into effect on 1st May 2026. This will be phased in and not all measures will come into force immediately however, the bulk of the tenancy-system changes will begin on this date.

Whilst the private rented sector has been hit with a number of obstacles in recent years, The Renters Rights Act is undoubtedly the biggest shake up yet and it is vital that landlords navigate this carefully. It will be extremely important that Landlords are fully aware of all aspects of the act. The safest way to ensure full compliance will be to use a reputable and knowledgeable letting agent to assist in the management of tenancies and to ensure all regulations are adhered to and paperwork is issued correctly.

Here at Winkworth, we will be guiding our Landlords through this complicated process to ensure they fully understand the changes along with ensuring full compliance to avoid potentially hefty ﬁnes. We will also be exploring all options with Landlords to ensure their properties remain proﬁtable investments moving forwards.

If you would like to discuss your rental investment with us, our experienced lettings team would be delighted to assist. Please call on 01202 767313 or email bjesty@winkworth.co.uk

What this means for landlords

You should begin reviewing tenancy agreements, systems, and property standards now. The penalties for non-compliance will be significant, and enforcement powers will sit with local authorities. This article highlights the key areas where landlords will need to adapt. winkworth.co.uk/westbourne

Key reforms to take effect from 1st May include:

• Periodic tenancies

• Section 21 abolished

• Cap on rent in advance

• Anti-discrimination measures

• Ban on rental bidding

• Annual rent increases via section 13 notices

• Tenant’s rights to request a pet

Other measures — such as the creation of a national landlord database, mandatory Ombudsman membership, and the extension of the Decent Homes Standard into the private rented sector will be phased in at a later date.

Landlords’ Responsibilities

EVICTIONS: No more Section 21

Section 21 “no-fault” evictions will be abolished. You may only recover possession through one of the statutory Section 8 grounds, such as selling the property or tenant arrears. Using the wrong ground or notice will cause costly delays. Correct legal process will be critical.

TENANCIES: Rolling monthly contracts

All tenancies will become rolling monthly (periodic) contracts. You cannot require ﬁxed terms or break clauses. Tenants can leave with two months’ notice; landlords must rely on valid possession grounds. Plan for more ﬂexible tenancy turnover.

RENT: One increase per year

You can raise rent only once per year, with two months’ written notice. Rent clauses in agreements will no longer apply. Tenants can challenge increases at the Tribunal, so evidence of fair market rent will be essential. Transparency in rent reviews is key.

RENT IN ADVANCE: Limits apply

You cannot require multiple months’ rent in advance beyond the deposit and ﬁrst month’s rent. Rent cannot be accepted until the tenancy agreement is signed. If you previously relied on advance rent as a safeguard, speak to your ofﬁce about alternative risk-management tools such as guarantors or rent guarantee insurance.

STUDENT TENANCIES: Notice timelines

For non–purpose-built student properties, landlords must ensure the tenant is a full-time student at the start of the tenancy (or reasonably expect them to become one). A written notice of intent to recover possession must be given before the tenancy begins. The tenancy must be signed no earlier than six months before its start date, and landlords must give at least four months’ notice, ending between 1 June and 30 September, with the intention to re-let to another student.

DISCRIMINATION: No DSS/children bans

It will be unlawful for landlords to discriminate against applicants on the basis of beneﬁts or children. Clauses in mortgages, insurance policies, or head leases that require such discrimination will no longer be valid. Any indirect or unjustiﬁed discrimination could expose landlords to regulatory action.

PETS: Fair requests only

Tenants will have a statutory right to request permission to keep a pet. You must respond in writing within 28 days. Refusals must be based on legitimate reasons such as restrictions in a superior lease. The Commons have removed the earlier proposal to require pet insurance. Blanket bans are no longer lawful.

BIDDING: No rent bidding

It will be unlawful to invite or accept bids above the advertised rent. Marketing must show a clear asking rent, and this ﬁgure cannot be exceeded through negotiation. Ensure advertising processes comply with this requirement. Breaches risk penalties and reputational harm.

STANDARDS: Decent Homes & Awaab’s Law

You must meet the Decent Homes Standard in your properties. Awaab’s Law also imposes strict time limits for addressing hazards such as damp and mould. Proactive inspections and timely repairs are essential. Local authorities can ﬁne for non-compliance.

DATABASE & REDRESS: Mandatory membership

You must register yourself and your properties on the national landlord database before letting. You must also join the Ombudsman scheme. This creates transparency and accountability across the sector. Non-membership could prevent lawful letting and will result in penalties.

PENALTIES: Fines & repayment

Local authorities will enforce compliance through ﬁnes of up to £40,000 and Rent Repayment Orders of up to 24 months’ rent. Membership of the database and Ombudsman will also be monitored. Failure to comply risks ﬁnancial and reputational damage.

Wednesday, 31 December 2025 st

4 Course Set Menu with Champagne Cocktail on arrival

£119 per person

Wednesday, 31 December 2025 st

Celebrate in style at Bournemouth’s most centrally located hotel! Begin your evening with an indulgent Amuse Bouche, followed by a sumptuous 3-Course Dinner. Then, dance the night away to the extraordinary sounds of Paul Kinvig!

£95 Per Adult

£47.50 Per Child (Under 12)

New Forest 1600 Signature

showroom hours

Monday – Friday: 8 am – 5 pm

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed location #10 Avon Trading Park Reid Street, Christchurch Dorset, BH23 2BT free parking available

Understanding the Renters’ Rights Bill: What landlords need to know ahead of May 2026

With the Renters Rights Bill (RRB) receiving Royal Assent on 27 October 2025, landlords across the country are now preparing for one of the most significant shifts in the private rented sector for many years. As predicted in last month’s column, the new legislation will officially come into force on 1 May 2026, ushering in a range of changes that every landlord must be aware of well in advance.

periods landlords must give tenants when seeking possession under the revised Section 8 process. This is particularly important because, from 1 May 2026, the familiar Section 21 “no-fault” eviction will be abolished.

To support both landlords and tenants through the transition, the government has published a “Guide to the Renters Rights Act”, which is available on the official government website. If you haven’t already read it, I strongly encourage you to do so. The guide sets out the new requirements clearly, including the notice

For those considering serving a Section 21 before the deadline, there is a narrow window to bear in mind: while you may still issue a Section 21 notice prior to 1 May 2026, it will only remain valid if a court application is submitted by 31 July 2026. Any Section 21 without a court application by that date will automatically expire, even if the original notice period has not yet run its full course.

Another key obligation introduced by the RRB is the requirement to provide your existing tenants with a written statement within 30 days of the Act coming into force. This written statement will outline the core terms of the tenancy and ensure compliance with the transparency standards embedded in the new framework.

One of the most common concerns raised by landlords relates to selling their rental property under the new rules. The RRB does permit landlords to regain possession if they intend to sell, using a mandatory ground under Section 8. In this scenario, landlords will be able to give four months’ notice.

PICTURED ABOVE

Sharon Canning. Owner of Move On Sales and Lettings

If a tenant refuses to vacate, the mandatory nature of the ground should provide reassurance that the court will order possession.

However, the biggest point of anxiety is what happens if market conditions change. Under the new rules, if you serve notice to sell but then decide not to proceed, you cannot re-let the property for 12 months from the end of the four-month notice period—effectively creating a 16-month gap. Understandably, many landlords fear committing themselves to a decision that may later become financially challenging.

That said, it may help to reframe how you think about the life cycle of your tenancies. Many landlords naturally see tenants stay for two to three years. If this aligns with your typical pattern, you can view each new tenancy as a planned cycle: a period during which you expect stability, followed by a natural opportunity to sell when the tenant chooses to move on. If the tenant gives

notice, you haven’t triggered the Section 8 selling ground, meaning you retain flexibility to re-let should your circumstances change.

The RRB undoubtedly introduces new structures and responsibilities, but with clear planning and awareness, landlords can navigate the transition smoothly and make informed decisions about the future of their properties.

A WORD OF ADVICE

Choosing the right letting agent can be the difference between a smooth, profitable tenancy and a stressful, costly experience. A skilled agent brings invaluable expertise in property marketing, thorough tenant referencing, and staying fully compliant with the ever-evolving housing regulations. They take care of all legal documentation, ensure deposits are handled correctly, and keep essential safety checks up to date— significantly reducing the risk of fines, disputes, or compliance issues.

01202 711169

Sharon@moveon.biz

A proactive agent also manages rent collection and oversees property maintenance, helping to keep tenants happy while minimising void periods. In today’s competitive rental market, having a dependable letting agent offers landlords peace of mind, stronger returns, and the confidence that their investment is being managed professionally and legally at all times.

Move On was founded by Sharon Canning in 2006, bringing with her two decades of industry experience. Fast-forward another 20 years, and Sharon now brings an impressive 40 years’ expertise to the business. Move On has since become widely recognised locally for its deep knowledge and trusted reputation within the lettings industry.

For a friendly, no-obligation chat, feel free to contact Sharon or a member of her team—or email sharon@moveon.biz

GARAGE DOOR SERVICING

Regular servicing keeps your automated garage door operating smoothly, safely, and reliably. With dail y use and exposure to the elements, components can wear down over time, affecting performance and security. Routine maintenance helps prevent breakdowns, reduces repair costs, and ensures your garage door continues to protect your home with ease.

Improved home security

Reliable smooth operation

Low er repair costs

Enhanc ed safety checks

Extend ed system lifespan

Book your pre-Christmas garage door service today to secure your slot and enjoy smooth, trouble-free access throughout the festive season.

Call us: 01202 980107 Email us: sales@hitechgroup.co.uk Website: www.hitechservices.uk

Tinsel, turkey and tenants –Why Camerons Lettings make Christmas easy

As the mince pies appear and the fairy lights start blinking, there’s one thing everyone needs: space. Space for family. Space for friends. Space for that big group hug (or rowdy board-game night) when your house becomes the Christmas HQ. That’s where Camerons Lettings step in – your local letting agents who don’t just let properties, they let you live.

Picture this: It’s a crisp December evening, a light snow dusts the rooftops (or just the frost on your car window), and you’ve invited everyone round. The little ones are ready with hot chocolate and marshmallows, the grown-ups have been entrusted with the mulled wine (good luck), and the dog is eyeing the tree. What you need is a home that works for this kind of festive chaos. Enough room for laughter, games, sprawling cushions, and maybe even a second canapé tray.

That’s exactly the kind of property magic that Camerons Lettings specialise in. They’ve got flats, houses, quirky spaces and rooms in and around Bournemouth and the wider Dorset area — starting from the cosy onebeds (great for you and your partner plus one guest) right up to large family homes where you can stash the extra aunties and uncles.

What makes them stand out? They take the fuss out of renting. No mystery fees lurking like an unwanted gift under the tree.

CONTACT

01202 295678

info@cameronsproperties.co.uk

PICTURED ABOVE

Aleina Cameron, Owner of Camerons Estate and Letting Agents, Bournemouth

No surprise clauses that feel like leftovers from last year. Instead: clear, honest advice, tailored service, and someone on hand who understands that yes, you will need somewhere to hang your coat, set up the buffet and maybe hide from your in-laws for five minutes.

Landlords, don’t worry — they’ve got your back too. Their team are top-notch on the legal bits (not glamorous, but absolutely essential when you’re holding the Christmas crackers). They take care of draughting notices, marketing, referencing

WEBSITE cameronsproperties.co.uk

ADDRESS

162 Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth, Dorset BH8 8AS

and all the behind-the-scenes bits so you can focus on what really matters: avoiding your nan’s third plate of pudding.

And let’s not forget location. Their office at 162 Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth, means they’re right in the thick of things. Whether you’re after a town-centre flat, somewhere near the sea for a Boxing Day stroll, or a house with a garden so the kids can run off steam (and Uncle Bob can sneak a nap) — Camerons are on it.

So this December, as you pull out the tinsel and primp the tree, why not also pull up a cosy new home to base your festive fun from? With Camerons Lettings you’ll find a place where the laughter echoes, the logs crackle (or radiators hum), and where you’ve got room for all the people, presents, and playful chaos that make Christmas feel right. Pop in (or call them on 01202 29 5678) — and let them help you start your season in a home that’s ready to sparkle.

Let the mince pies begin — and may your days be merry, bright, and blissfully well-lit!

From everyone at Camerons Lettings, thank you for letting us be part of your year. Whether you’re moving, settling, or simply dreaming of a bit more space, we wish you a truly Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year. Here’s to happy homes, full stockings, and plenty of cheer in 2026!

In the spotlight: The Bath Works – unveils new Poole showroom

If you’re thinking about updating your bathroom, there’s one name you need to know — The Bath Works. With beautiful showrooms in New Milton, Southbourne and most recently Poole, this Dorset-based company has become a go-to destination for style, quality, and inspiration. We caught up with Kate, who runs the showrooms, to find out what makes The Bath Works so special — and why now is the perfect time to pop in for a visit.

Kate Ware, Sales & Marketing Director

Kate, for anyone who hasn’t visited yet, what can people expect when they walk into one of your showrooms?

You’ll find beautifully designed displays showcasing everything from luxurious freestanding baths to sleek modern showers, stunning tiles, and clever storage

ideas. It’s a space where customers can explore, get inspired, and really start to imagine how their own bathroom could look.

We are the only local bathroom showroom that o ers a dedicated Presentation Room allowing every customer to step into their bathroom via VR for free.

We’ve heard there’s a brand new Poole Showroom – tell us more!

Yes, it’s a really exciting time! The showroom is thoughtfully curated with stylish, functional bathroom settings that cater to diverse tastes, lifestyles, and budgets. With a strong focus on quality and craftsmanship, showcasing some

displays which proudly feature British manufacturers. But the journey doesn’t stop there, showcasing the very latest in wellbeing technology, the showroom features a state-of-the-art wellness suite complete with a fully operational steam shower and whirlpool bath.

That sounds fantastic. What else is happening that customers should know about?

Absolutely! Right now, we’re having a sale on ex-display bathroom suites, we are updating some of our Southbourne displays, so there are pieces up for grabs there and, our New Milton showroom is having a refit so we have a large number of ex-display furniture, baths and showering ready to go, so customers can get something brand new and top quality at a fraction of the price. It’s a great opportunity to grab a bargain. Then, in January and February, we’re running “free tiles with every bathroom sale” campaign – perfect timing if you’re planning a renovation in the new year then pop into your local showroom for more information.

The Poole Showroom has a Wellness Suite – what makes it special?

We wanted to show a display as a functioning bathroom which can be demonstrated by the team but, also one that inspires people to elevate their bathroom into something that makes them immediately feel calm and alleviate the stresses of everyday life. The room has frosted glass doors for added privacy for people that would like a

demonstration, it has a working whirlpool bath, a smart toilet and steam showroom room. The whole room has a calmness about it with soft relaxing music playing in the background. The products and style of the room are there to inspire and elevate any bathroom design and we have seen a real surge in the wellness sector with many opting for products from within this display.

Southbourne & Poole 01202 525211

New Milton 01425 600230 EMAIL sales@thebathworks.co.uk

why should people

and

Because your bathroom should be a space you love! Our team is friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about helping people create their dream bathroom. Even if you’re just looking for ideas, come and have a wander around – you might leave with more inspiration than you expected!

Visit The Bath Works showrooms in Poole, New Milton, and Southbourne – where beautiful bathrooms begin.

POOLE SHOWROOM

41 Wessex Trade Centre, Ringwood Road, Poole, BH12 3PG

SOUTHBOURNE SHOWROOM

10-12 Portman Terrace, Bournemouth, BH5 2HP

NEW MILTON SHOWROOM

118 Gore Road, New Milton, Hampshire, BH25 6SJ

www.thebathworks.co.uk

Finally,

pop in

see The Bath Works?

Affordable new builds, property refurbishment, remodelling and extensions M: 07774 559576 | 07980 564494 E: info@hiprojects co uk

Affordable new builds, property refurbishment, remodelling and extensions M: 07774 559576 | 07980 564494

| 07980

European Christmas markets worth visiting this winter 6

From Austria and Germany, to France and Belgium, there’s something special about a festival market city break.

Every year it seems to be December before you know it, and Christmas can suddenly feel as if it’s around the corner. To get into the spirit early, visiting one of Europe’s long-established Christmas markets can really commence your festive season, as you stroll the streets with a mulled wine, snack on gingerbread, and kick off your shopping.

Try these winter wonderlands in late November and throughout December.

PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC

Dates: November 29 – January 6

Prague hosts several Christmas markets each year but the 12th century Old Town Square is the main location for a pre-Christmas celebration. Each year a Christmas tree is selected from a different region of the country and as well as Czech food, and all manner or arts and crafts (including sword making) there’s an extensive programme of festive activities.

Make sure to try the trdelnik – a sweet pasty – hot mead and famous Prague ham, which is considered a delicacy. The square is home to the Baroque St Nicholas Church, the Rococo Kinský Palace and the town hall’s 15th-century astronomical clock.

If you’re lucky enough to get a sprinkling of snow, Prague can feel fairytale-like in winter, and it’s an ideal time to visit the Prague Castle. Peace Square hosts a smaller market outside the neo-gothic Basilica of St. Ludmila, which has more of a local community feel.

WHERE TO STAY: For accommodation right on the edge of the Old Town Christmas market, prices at the four-star Hotel Rott start at £180 for a double room, including breakfast. Visit: hotelrott.cz/.

GHENT, BELGIUM

Dates: December 4 – 31

The historical city of Ghent in the Flanders region of northwest Belgium, with important sites like St Bavo’s Cathedral and Gravensteen Castle (also known as The Castle of the Counts), this lesser-known city offers plenty for visitors during the festivities. Head to the

main squares of Sint Baafsplein and Sint Veerleplein to see how the city transforms in the lead up to Christmas. The Christmas market sees more than 150 wooden huts spread from Sint Baafsplein through the streets. And the city takes its Christmas decorations seriously so expect a suitably festive feel as you wander around.

For families you’ll find an ice rink, carousel and you can visit the castle – the only remaining medieval castle with a moat and intact defence system in Flanders – as it’s transformed with lighting and music at Christmas. While adults will enjoy a hot, festive drink at the gorgeous popup Winter Bar inside the thick castle walls and arches.

WHERE TO STAY: Prices at the Yalo Urban Boutique Hotel are approx. £223 in December. Visit: yalohotel. com/en

ABOVE

Ghent Christmas Market, Ghent, Belgium | Visit Gent/PA

LEFT

Prague’s Old Town Square Christmas market | Libor Svacek/PA

ARRAS, HAUTS-DE-FRANCE

Dates: November 28 – December 30

For a flight-free Christmas market trip – via the Eurostar, Eurotunnel or a ferry – Hauts-de-France, the country’s most northern region, is a great option. One of the region’s largest Christmas markets, Village de Noel, takes over Grand’Place, a square in the pretty town of Arras every year.

At a little over an hour from Calais, it’s a doable weekend break, and visitors can expect to find around 140 stalls, an ice rink, local produce and crafts at the market. But the town has much more to offer too, with striking Flemish architecture and a 75m gothic belfry, with UNESCO status. It was rebuilt after being destroyed in WWI and it’s worth climbing for panoramic views of the town.

Off the main square, check out the independent shops and visit The Carrière Wellington, a museum and Les Boves, a network of underground tunnels used by soldiers during war.

WHERE TO STAY: Prices at the Mercure Centre Gare Hotel, a 10-minute walk from the Grand’Place, start at £115 per room. Visit french-weekendbreaks.co.uk.

VIENNA, AUSTRIA

Dates: November 14 – December 23

The Viennese Christmas Market in front of the town hall is easily the best-known in Vienna, but locals are said to prefer Spittelberg Christmas Market. In the heart of the city’s arty district, Neubau, Spittelberg is off-thebeaten tourist track, with charming, cobblestone streets weaving around gorgeous 19th century buildings.

As always you’ll find handmade arts, crafts and food but what makes this market unique is it’s huge focus on the ecological footprint; including produce that is fair trade, regional, organic or vegan or vegetarian.

Beyond the Christmas market, this area of Vienna offers cafe culture, trendy restaurants and world-famous museums, Leopold and mumok.

But if you want to tour around Vienna’s festive markets in one trip, there’s also the Christmas Market at Schönbrunn Palace and the Viennese Christmas Market Freyung – which has been running since 1772.

WHERE TO STAY: Hotel Altstadt, an art-focussed hotel, is located right on Spittelberg, prices are approx £158 per room.

LAUSANNE, SWITZERLAND

Dates: November 20 – December 31

On the banks of Lake Geneva, the French-speaking Swiss city of Lausanne not only also comes with blue lake views but also snowy mountain peaks, medieval streets and a 12th-century Gothic cathedral.

Bô Noël Christmas market is one of seven in the city in late November and through December, but head to this one for an authentic festive atmosphere, local gastronomy and amusements for kids, like a huge ferris wheel and sledging. The Opening Banquet on November 22 sees visitors climb aboard the Little Enchanted Train and attend a Christmas meal prepared by Lausanne’s restauranteurs (registration opens October 22, price £45 pp).

For sports fans, the city also has a rich history; known as the ‘Olympic capital’, it’s home to the International Olympic Committee Headquarters, Olympic Park and the Olympic Museum.

WHERE TO STAY: The Château d’Ouchy, a renovated turreted lakeside medieval castle. Prices start from £229, based on two sharing.

Bô

LEFT

Spittelberg Christmas market in Vienna | WienTourismus/PA

FAR LEFT

Arras Christmas market in Hauts-de-France | Hautsde-France tourisme /Nicolas Bryant/PA

ABOVE

Noël Christmas Market in Lausanne, Switzerland | Intuifilm/ Lausanne Tourism/PA

DRESDEN, GERMANY

Dates: November 26 – December 24

In eastern Germany, close to the Czech Republic border is the city of Dresden – most famous for sights like the Baroque Zwinger Palace, the gothic church Frauenkirche and the Semperoper opera house. If you like Christmas markets with a side of tradition then Desden’s Striezelmarkt should be right up there. Dating back to 1434, it’s Germany’s oldest, and takes place each year in Altmarkt square in the heart of the city. With 240 stands, it’s also home to the largest Erzgebirge Christmas pyramid in the world, a traditional wooden structure over 14 metres tall, displaying hand-carved figures and scenes. And don’t leave without trying the stollen.

Close by is another gem, Dresden’s Medieval Christmas Market at Stallhof – one of the only originally preserved jousting sites in the world, complete with knights as well as festive and craft stalls.

WHERE TO STAY: a&o Hotel Dresden Hauptbahnhof (with a roof top and views of Altstadt) offers a twin room from £26 per person (based on two sharing). Visit: aohostels.com

Words by Lauren Taylor, PA

BELOW

The Dresden Christmas market in Germany | Alamy/PA

Sun, sea, and serious cash: Why your Dorset home is a holiday let goldmine!

We grab a coffee with Ross Stallion, the effervescent founder of Stallion Property Management, to uncover why turning your Dorset or New Forest property into a holiday let isn’t just smart—it’s a no-brainer. Warning: This interview may cause severe regret over your current rental agreement.

Ross, the sun is shining, the beaches are packed. Give it to us straight. Why should a property owner in Dorset or the New Forest ditch the standard rental for a holiday let?

(Leans in with a conspiratorial grin) Why settle for a slow-dripping tap when you can turn on the profit firehose? Look, Bournemouth is the UK’s undisputed holiday champion. The maths is simple, and it’s glorious. We’re consistently seeing

properties earn up to five times more per month as a holiday let. Let that marinate. It’s the difference between a supermarket meal deal and a three-course feast at a Rick Stein restaurant. If you own a property here, you’re not just a landlord; you’re sitting on a licensed printing press for money.

Five times is a huge figure. But people will say it sounds too good to be true. What about the horror stories? The mess, the demanding guests, the 3am phone calls?

(Chuckles) Ah, the myths! Let’s swap horror stories for a second. The real horror story is traditional renting. Think about it: the fear of a tenant deciding your lovely sofa is the perfect place for their 20-a-day habit, or that your beautiful Victorian cornice is just crying out for a neon beer sign. And let’s not even mention the gut-wrenching dread of unpaid rent. With a holiday let, that anxiety is gone. Poof! No more chasing rent, no more county court judgements. Guests pay upfront, in full. It’s financial bliss.

Okay, but the mess…

The mess? What mess? With a standard tenant, you might not see the inside of your property for six months, and let me tell you, the ‘surprise’ at the end can be truly terrifying.

LEFT

A 2 bed penthouse apartment with 180 degree sea views in the heart of the tranquil Alum Chine, just a few minutes walk from the beach.

With us, our crack team of cleaning ninjas descends after every single guest. We’re talking military precision. They fluff cushions, they polish taps, they ensure every crumb is evicted. Your property is maintained in ‘show home condition’ constantly. It’s like your house is always on its best behaviour, ready for a photoshoot at a moment’s notice.

So, you handle all of that?

Ross: We don’t just handle it; we obsess over it! Our service is so comprehensive, it’s practically a form of therapy for landlords. We strut our stuff styling your property for its debut photoshoot, then we upload it to every holiday platform under the sun. We become the guest-communication shield. Every “Is there a corkscrew?” and “Can we bring our emotional support alpaca?” gets expertly fielded by us. You are blissfully unaware. You could be trekking in the Himalayas or simply enjoying a quiet pint in your local, and your property is working harder than a wasp in a jam factory.

ABOVE

A spacious 7-bedroom retreat on the edge of the New Forest. Sleeping up to 14 guests, this home is perfect for family gatherings or group getaways.

And what about if the owner wants to use the property themselves?

Now you’ve hit on the secret sauce! This is the bit everyone loves. Fancy a weekend in Swanage with the family? Just block the dates. Your posh friends from London want a New Forest getaway? Let them stay! It’s your house, whenever you want it. You get the income and the access. With a sixmonth assured shorthold tenancy, you’re locking yourself out for half a year. Where’s the fun in that?

Any final, cheeky wisdom for our readers?

Absolutely. Think of your property as a talented racehorse. With a long-term let, it’s stuck in the stable, eating hay and… well, producing more hay. With us at Stallion Property Management, we’re the champion jockeys. We train it, we groom it, we enter it in the right races, and we make sure it wins. All you do is collect the prize money and pop in for the occasional ride.

ABOVE

St James Cottage is a beautifully restored fourbedroom, four-bathroom retreat set on Milton Abbas’ iconic main street | Photography by Ellie Mathieson

So, stop letting your goldmine gather dust! Give us a call, and let’s get your property out of the stable and into the winner’s circle.

CONTACT

01202 287351

contact@stallionpm.co.uk

ADDRESS

303 Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth, BH8 8BX

WEBSITE

stallionpropertymanagement.co.uk

Christmas doesn’t seem that far, will your tree ﬁt in your car? Come

National Trust reveals ‘best ever’ Christmas days out in Hampshire

This festive season, National Trust places are ready to make your Christmas magical. Step into beautifully decorated historic houses full of festive sparkle and be immersed in favourite fairytales and pantomimes. Indoors and out, there are family games and wonderful photo opportunities.

Check out the Ugly Sisters’ Tinder profiles in their dressing room at Mottisfont and have your photo taken from Cinderella’s carriage. At Hinton Ampner Snow White has laid on a beautiful forest feast and little ones can climb aboard a Christmas sleigh. Discover the Snow Queen’s icy realm at The Vyne and try the Three Bears’ festive challenge. Twinkling Christmas trees, lights and decorations fill the rooms at Uppark, and at Winchester City Mill you’ll find a Gingerbread-themed Christmas plus cosy café treats like spiced cake with toffee sauce.

Christmas | National Trust Images, James Dobson

Richard Grudzinski, Experiences Curator at the National Trust, shared: “This year, we’re offering visitors a truly special Christmas experience. From the charm of fairytales and Christmas pantos in our grand houses to imaginative trails, storytelling and fabulous photo moments, National Trust places around Hampshire are full of warmth, creativity and magic this winter.”

Warm up with festive treats in our National Trust cafés and browse for unique gifts including stocking fillers and presents for pampered pooches.

Find out more at nationaltrust.org.uk/Hampshire.

FIVE CRACKING CHRISTMAS VISITS

IN AND AROUND HAMPSHIRE

A Cinderella Christmas at Mottisfont 22 November to 4 January, timed ticket for house upon arrival

This Christmas, Mottisfont sets the stage for Cinderella, as the curtain goes up on a pantomime-inspired celebration of the much-loved fairytale. Step into a world of glittering ballgowns, lost slippers and colourful characters as the house is transformed with theatrical flair, seasonal sparkle and a pinch of fairy godmother magic.

The journey begins at Mottisfont’s ‘Box Office’, then it’s into Hardup Hall to find Cinderella’s kitchen and on to the Royal Palace where over-the-top party preparations are in full flow. Create your own invitation to the ball and find out what your funny panto name is. In the Ugly Sisters’ dressing room hilarious wigs and gaudy accessories spill across the surfaces – look out for the Ugly Sisters’ Tinder profiles - they’re both after a rich husband. Mottisfont magic will see a pumpkin turn into a carriage before your eyes, then you’re in the Royal Ball where the clock is about to strike midnight!

LEFT Father and son enjoying Christmas decorations | National Trust Images Arnhel de Serra

RIGHT

Mottisfont in winter | National Trust Image, John Miller

BELOW

Mottisfont | National Trust Images, Megan Taylor

Outdoors, the fun continues for families with themed games and interactive stations including a colourful stage for panto performances, and a life-size Cinderella carriage cut-out for photos. On set dates there’s storytelling (bookable) and festive crafts for kids (dropin). All activities are free.

Additional activities:

• Pantomime Dame meet and greet: award-winning panto dame Mama G will be mingling with visitors and getting ready for your selfies! 22 & 23 November, set times throughout the day.

• Professional storyteller Amanda Kane-Smith brings Cinderella to life with high-energy, interactive performances full of fairytale magic and imaginative fun. 25 November, 4 & 10 December, 11.30am & 2.30pm, free, pre-booking essential at nationaltrust. org.uk/Mottisfont.

• Festive-themed crafts for pre-schoolers: your little ones can enjoy our popular free drop-in craft sessions whilst you explore the gardens and grab a coffee. 27 November, 3 & 12 December, 10.15am & 11.45am. No need to book. Free activities.

Entry to decorated house is free with usual admission (closed 24 & 25 December). nationaltrust.org.uk/mottisfont

A Pantomime Christmas at Hinton Ampner 15 November to 4 January, pre-booking essential

Discover some of our much-loved pantomimes at Hinton Ampner this Christmas. Each ground floor room reveals a colourful scene from a famous panto, with Jack and the Beanstalk, Aladdin, Snow White and more brought to life with professional light effects and sound – listen out for the giant’s Fee-Fi-Fo-Fum! Outside, little ones are tasked with finding the missing theatre props then racing back to sit in our Christmas sleigh, parked up in front of the house by wooden reindeer. There are festive games and activities for older kids too including reindeer hoop-la, plus A Showtime Santa’s sweetshop, filled with traditional sweets.

Free with usual admission (closed 25 & 26 December). Pre-booking essential. nationaltrust.org.uk/hinton-ampner

ABOVE

Mottisfont - A Cinderella Christmas | National Trust, The Studio Romsey

A Fairytale Christmas at The Vyne 22 November to 5 January, timed ticket for house upon arrival

This festive season, get ready for a magical adventure through favourite fairy tales at The Vyne. There are eight stories to discover, on your journey through the house and gardens. Our Fairy family will guide you through rooms illuminated by twinkling trees and atmospheric lighting. Discover The Snow Queen’s icy realm and sit in her regal chair. Look out for Little Red Riding Hood’s wolf lurking in the drawing room and beautiful decorations inspired by Beauty and the Beast. Rapunzel’s golden braid cascades from a tower and in the historic kitchen the Three Bears are getting ready for Christmas. Outside, you can pose as fairy royalty with our colourful Fairy King and Queen cut-outs, whilst little ones enjoy our Neverland play area.

Christmas lunch: pre-book Christmas lunch in the Brewhouse, choosing from two or three courses plus hot drinks and mince pies, call 0344 249 1895 (weekdays from 24 November to 17 December).

Free with usual admission (closed 24 & 25 December). Collect timed ticket for house upon arrival; no pre-booking, nationaltrust.org.uk/vyne

LEFT

Hinton AmpnerHansel and Gretel decorations | National Trust Images ABOVE

The Vyne - Beauty & The Beast image | National Trust, Karen Legg

RIGHT

The Vyne | National Trust Images, K Marshall

Christmas at Uppark 7 to 24 December, Sunday to Wednesday

At grand Uppark on the South Downs you’ll find a glitzy, glamorous Christmas where decorated trees and piles of prettily wrapped presents take centre stage, backlit by fairylights and sparkling chandeliers. Swathes of bauble-encrusted garlands wind their way up the staircase and the dining room is transformed into a festive feast scene.

Free with usual admission (Sunday to Wednesday) nationaltrust.org.uk/uppark

A Gingerbread Christmas at Winchester City Mill 20 November to 4 January, Thursday to Sunday

This historic mill, set in the heart of the city of Winchester, is brimming with the delights of Christmas. Garlands and presents fill this special space with festive cheer. Look out for the richly decorated Christmas tree displaying bright bows, baubles and strings of gingerbread characters – a tribute to the Mill’s flour producing heritage. In our cosy café there’s a new festive menu with delights including spiced ginger cake with toffee sauce.

Free to visit (Thursday to Sunday - closed 25 & 26 December. nationaltrust.org.uk/winchestercitymill

ABOVE

Uppark - Servery at Christmas | National Trust Images, Drew Loin

LEFT

Winchester City Mill - decorated beams | National Trust, Michaela Saunders-Hall

HOT TUB

Longer

Lower

Fewer

Better

Bright ideas for a magical Christmas

Inside Poole Lighting Factory Shop’s world of style, sparkle and seasonal inspiration.

As December sweeps in with its crisp air and golden afternoons, homes across Dorset begin to twinkle with anticipation. Windows glow, trees shimmer, and families gather to transform their spaces into something magical. But if there’s one secret to creating that irresistible Christmas atmosphere — the kind that makes guests linger and little ones gasp in delight — it’s the lighting. And nowhere understands that better than Poole Lighting Factory Shop.

Tucked away in the heart of Poole, this treasure trove of illumination is more than just a lighting shop — it’s a place where inspiration shines from every corner. As you step inside, you’re greeted not only by the sparkle of chandeliers and the soft glow of lamps, but by the warmth of a family-run business that’s been lighting up homes for decades.

Whether you’re dressing your dining room for Christmas dinner, updating your hallway for festive visitors, or searching for that perfect statement piece to crown your

living room, Poole Lighting Factory Shop has something to make every home shine brighter this season.

Creating atmosphere — one light at a time

There’s a certain magic that comes from the right light at the right time. A soft pool of light from a floor lamp can make a corner feel cosy and inviting; a dazzling pendant can turn a simple table into the heart of a celebration. The experts at Poole Lighting Factory Shop know this better than anyone, and they take pride in helping customers choose lighting that brings personality and warmth into their homes.

Their vast showroom offers everything from sleek, contemporary designs to timeless classics. Think elegant glass pendants that catch the light like frost on a winter’s morning, rustic wall lamps perfect for a country kitchen, or bold modern fixtures that turn heads and start conversations. There are lights to suit every taste, every room, and every budget.

And for those who love a bargain — which, let’s be honest, we all do at Christmas — the Factory Shop prices make it even easier to give your home that designer look without the designer price tag.

Festive inspiration around every corner

This time of year, Poole Lighting Factory Shop becomes a wonderland of ideas. Staffed by a friendly, knowledgeable team who genuinely care about helping you get it right, they’re full of creative suggestions to bring your festive vision to life. Imagine a cluster of warm, golden pendants hanging over your Christmas table, casting a glow on plates piled high with roast potatoes and cranberry sauce. Picture fairy lights wound around stair rails, soft lamps flickering beside armchairs, and a stunning statement light welcoming guests in from the cold.

Lighting isn’t just functional — it’s emotional. It changes how a home feels. It turns grey afternoons into golden evenings and makes those family moments — the laughter, the

games, the late-night hot chocolates — feel all the more special. This Christmas, Poole Lighting Factory Shop invites you to rediscover the joy of ambience.

Countdown to Christmas with daily offers

And as if the showroom weren’t magical enough, Poole Lighting Factory Shop is making December sparkle even brighter with their very own Christmas Advent Deals. Each day reveals a brand-new festive offer — from special discounts to limited-time treats — exclusively displayed on posters throughout the store. It’s the perfect excuse to pop in daily, soak up the excitement and enjoy a little extra Christmas cheer. So why not countdown to Christmas with them and discover a new way to light up your season, one day at a time?

More than just a shop

What truly sets Poole Lighting Factory Shop apart is the experience. It’s not about rushing in and out — it’s about taking your time, wandering among beautifully displayed fixtures, and imagining how each might transform your own home. There’s no hard sell, just genuine enthusiasm, expert advice, and a shared love of creating beautiful spaces.

And with new stock arriving regularly, including exclusive lines and limited-edition pieces, there’s always something fresh to discover. Whether you’re giving your décor a full festive makeover or simply treating yourself to a little sparkle, Poole Lighting Factory Shop makes it easy — and enjoyable — to find that perfect finishing touch.

Let your home shine this Christmas

So as you hang the wreath on the door and light the first fire of the season, remember that the right lighting can make your home feel truly magical. Step into Poole Lighting Factory Shop this December, and let their stunning collection inspire you. From glowing pendants to twinkling lamps, you’ll find everything you need to make your Christmas — and every day beyond — beautifully bright.

01202 690945

online@poolelighting.com

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Rick Stein’s ultimate guide to cooking the Christmas dinner

Lauren Taylor chats to the TV chef about his tips and tricks for everything from the turkey to the sprouts.

In a restaurant kitchen, even professional chefs don’t have to make every element of a three-course meal.

But at Christmas, “When you’re cooking at home, you have to do everything,” says Rick Stein, “therefore your timing has to be really good. In a restaurant kitchen you’re doing four or five things really, and nothing else, also they’re all part of the same course.”

The popular TV chef, who has published his first-ever festive cookbook, Rick Stein’s Christmas, including how to organise your time “to do it all painlessly”.

He advises: “Don’t leave everything until Christmas morning, there are many, many things that you think need to be done at the last minute – they really don’t.”

From festive canapes (think mini brioche toasts with whipped feta, fresh figs and pickled walnuts) and starters (Jerusalem artichoke soup with crispy bacon) to impressive desserts to wow your guests – like semifreddo cheesecake with clementine and campari syrup, or Black Forest trifle, Stein’s recipes are designed to be made in the fortnight around Christmas. And it wouldn’t be Stein without some seafood too.

Here’s his advice for getting the meal right on the big day.

THE BIRD

“I think Christmas is special in that it is about celebrating the same things or every year,” says Stein. “I really quite like the repetitiveness because it only comes around once a year. So turkey or goose with all the trimmings is what it’s all about.

I would feel like I’d sort of let people down if it was just roast beef, even if it was absolutely wonderful roast beef.” Although Stein’s new book also has plenty of alternatives for the big day – or other days in the festive period – think venison bacon and prune shortcrust pie, glazed bone-in Christmas ham, and roast butternut squash wellington with porcini gravy.

So what are the main mistakes people make with turkey? “Overcooking it,” he says. “It’s just a big chicken really. The biggest mistake is getting too nervous and overcooking it. People worry they’re going to get food poisoning if it’s undercooked which is very, very unlikely.

“Buy yourself a [oven] temperature probe to make sure you don’t overcook it. I think the safe temperature for a turkey is something like 70 degrees C. Once you start going over that, you get this problem with dry meat.I do suggest wrapping the turkey in buttered muslin [but] it’s really about not cooking it too long.”

THE GRAVY

“The best advice – people that I’ve mentioned it to seem a bit surprised – is don’t make your gravy at the last minute,” Stein says.

ABOVE

Rick Stein’s ultimate guide to cooking the Christmas dinner | BBC Books/PA

“Shake the potatoes in the pan or colander to roughen up the edges a bit. I always sprinkle in a bit of polenta or semolina, to give it a bit of crumbliness.

“With turkey, I tend to go for chestnut stuffing or sausage meat stuffing because turkey has got a less-rich flavour than goose. It can take a bit more flavour in the stuffing.”

BRUSSEL SPROUTS

“I have cut corners by buying pre-peeled from a supermarket.” He even did a test one year and bought some of each – “I tested them both and you couldn’t tell the difference.”

Perhaps surprisingly, Stein doesn’t do sprouts with the classic chestnut and bacon combination, and prefers them alone. Stein adds: “It’s not a sort of purity. It’s the balance of the whole meal. If you put stuff with every veg, they’re just fighting against each other.”

“I would always buy a free-range turkey or goose, so I get the giblets, and I’m making giblet stock the day before, to make that really nice and rich. Then I get some chicken stock as well.”I start with a little bit of duck fat and put a bit of flour in (I don’t like a lot of flour in my gravy). I cook that out, then make the gravy, because then I can absolutely make sure it’s quite intensely flavoured.

“The next day, I’ve got that gravy, it’s made. Just having roasted my goose or turkey, take it out and use some of the gravy to de glass the roasting tray so I get all the goodness from that [and add it in].”

ROAST POTATOES

The trick is to make sure you parboil the potatoes, without over-parboiling them. “I go for seven minutes in lightly salted water,” says Stein. “Seven minutes is enough if you’re using Maris Piper or King Edward, to make them a bit crumbly on the outside.

“I tend to parboil the day before, but I don’t put them back in the fridge, I just leave them out. You can really tell the difference. And I always use goose fat or duck fat to cook them.

“But the secret, I think, is having a fairly firm potato and not in any way elastic. It’s got to have a sort of brittleness but not too brittle.

“I’m really hot on roast potatoes because I think actually the gravy and the roast potatoes are the most important part.”

THE STUFFING

“I don’t tend to put stuffing in the turkey anymore, just to cook it separately, but I always do stuffing,” he says. If he’s cooking goose, Stein prefers a sage and onion stuffing to accompany it – “because goose is so rich you want something quite bland to serve with it.

Rick Stein’s Christmas: Recipes, Memories & Stories for the Festive Season, is published in hardback by BBC Books, priced £28. Available now.

ABOVE

Rick Stein, wife Sass Stein and son Jack Stein | James Murphy/PA

ABOVE

Rick Stein | James Murphy/PA

James Murphy/PA

SERVES

INGREDIENTS

1 x 4.5–5kg oven-ready goose

Salt and black pepper

Sage & onion stuffing:

3 large onions, finely chopped

75g goose fat

200g fresh white breadcrumbs

200g vacuum-packed chestnuts, chopped

Finely grated zest of

1 lemon

4tbsp chopped fresh

sage

3tbsp chopped parsley

1 large egg, beaten

Oil, for greasing

Salt and black pepper

Stock/gravy

4 rashers of streaky bacon, chopped

Goose giblets

1 small onion, chopped

1 carrot, chopped

2 celery sticks, chopped

2 bay leaves

6 black peppercorns

2 heaped tbsp plain flour

Apple sauce:

4 Cox’s apples, peeled, cored and sliced

Roast goose with sage & onion stuffing, and apple sauce

1. Preheat the oven to 220°C/Fan 200°C. Remove any clumps of fat from the inside of the goose cavity, put them into a pan and leave over a very low heat until melted. Pass the fat through a fine sieve into a bowl. Season the goose inside and out with salt and place it on a rack set over a large roasting tin. Roast for 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and lower the temperature to 180°C/Fan 160°C.

2. Lift the goose on to a board with 2 wooden spoons (you don’t want to pierce the skin), pour off the excess fat from the roasting tin and then replace the goose on the rack. Keep the fat for future roast potatoes.

3. Put the goose back in the oven and roast for a further 1–1½ hours, or until the juices run clear when the thickest part of the thigh is pierced with a skewer and the temperature of the meat when probed in the thickest part of the thigh reaches 66°C for a minute.

4. To make the giblet stock for the gravy, fry the bacon, giblets and vegetables in a little goose fat until golden brown. Pour off the excess fat, add 1.2 litres of water, the bay leaves and peppercorns and simmer for 1 hour. Strain through a sieve and set aside.

5. For the stuffing, fry the onions in about 75g of the goose fat until soft and very lightly browned. Put the breadcrumbs, chestnuts, lemon zest, sage and parsley in a bowl, add the onions and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the beaten egg to bind the mixture together. Spoon the stuffing into a well-greased terrine dish or loaf tin, cover with a lid or foil and set aside to cook later.

6. For the apple sauce, put the prepared apples into a pan with 100ml of water and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring now and then, until soft. Season the sauce with a pinch of salt and keep it warm.

7. When the goose is cooked, lift it on to a board, cover it with foil and leave it to rest for at least 20 minutes. Put the stuffing in the oven and cook for 25–30 minutes.

8. Pour off most of the fat from the roasting tin, leaving about a tablespoon. Set the tin on the hob, stir in the flour and cook for a couple of minutes. Add the giblet stock and deglaze the tin by rubbing the base with a wooden spoon. Simmer for about 10 minutes, then taste to check the seasoning. Pass the gravy through a sieve into a warm gravy boat.

9. Serve the goose with the stuffing, apple sauce and gravy, plus roast potatoes and vegetables.

Filo tartlets with raw salmon, wasabi cream and capers MAKES 24

INGREDIENTS

2 large sheets of filo pastry (about 45 x 25cm)

30g butter, melted

150ml double cream

1½tsp white miso paste

1–2tbsp wasabi

80–90g raw salmon fillet, skinned and pin-boned

24 capers

Sea salt

Christmas is the perfect for canapes and champagne.

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/Fan 160°C. You’ll need a 24-hole mini muffin tin.

2. Lay a sheet of filo on a board, brush it with butter, then cut the pastry into 5cm squares. Place a square into each of the 24 holes in the tin, pushing it down well. Repeat with the second sheet of filo, this time placing the squares in the tin at right angles to the first squares to create attractive star shapes.

3. Bake for 5–6 minutes until crisp and golden brown, then leave to cool. You can store the baked cases for up to 24 hours in an airtight tin.

4. For the wasabi cream, whip the cream very lightly until it is only just beginning to hold its shape – it will thicken when you stir in the seasoning. Fold in the miso paste, add a tablespoon of wasabi and taste, then add more wasabi according to your heat preference. Set aside.

5. About 30 minutes (or less) before serving, cut the salmon into small pieces. Spoon or pipe a teaspoon of the cream into each filo cup, then top with a piece of salmon, a caper and a sprinkle of sea salt.

James Murphy/PA

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30 Years of style and sustainability

An interview with Mark from A World of Furniture

This year marks an incredible milestone for A World of Furniture, one of Dorset and South Wiltshire’s most enduring independent furniture retailers. Founded by husbandand-wife team Mark and Lucy back in 1995, the business has evolved from a small pinefurniture shop into a thriving name known for quality, style and sustainability. We sat down with Mark to chat about the journey, the challenges, and what’s next for this family-run success story.

Let’s start at the beginning — how did A World of Furniture come to be?

Lucy and I came from completely different professional backgrounds, but we saw a real opportunity. Pine furniture was incredibly popular, and we spotted a gap in the market for a proper pine-furniture superstore in South Wiltshire. So, in February 1995, we opened our first shop.

From there, things grew quickly – more stores, more products, and a growing team. When pine furniture began to fall out of fashion, we re-branded in 2006 as A World of Furniture, expanding into oak and painted furniture, sofas, beds and mattresses. It was the start of a whole new chapter.

Has your role changed much since those early days?

A little, yes. Now that I’ve reached 60, I try to make more space for family life and our love of the outdoors. I’m still hands-on in the stores during the week, but I’m lucky to have a fantastic team who take the reins at weekends.

In those early days, Lucy and I really threw ourselves into the business — 80-hour weeks, no holidays, and every penny reinvested. There were no frills or flashy cars, just the pride of building something from scratch together. Lucy was incredible — she kept working right up until the day our first daughter was born, still helping unload furniture!

You now have two huge super-stores. How do you manage so much stock?

It’s a bit of a logistical dance! Between our Salisbury and Blandford stores, we’ve got over 30,000 square feet of wall-to-wall

furniture display. That’s supported by large warehouses at both locations, along with five delivery vehicles that take our furniture far and wide.

You stock some major brands — what makes you different from online retailers?

We like to think we offer something more personal and eclectic. People want furniture that’s not only trusted and wellmade, but also unique. Our mix of brands like G Plan, La-Z-Boy, Alstons, Sherborne and Silentnight gives customers choice and confidence.

But the real difference is that we care. We’ve always been a proactive, hands-on retailer. Everyone can “talk a good story,” but we’ve spent three decades proving ours.

You’ve also become known for your environmental efforts. How did that start?

Sustainability has been at the heart of our business for over 20 years. We launched our “Furniture for Trees” scheme back in 2004, and since then we’ve helped plant over 80,000 trees.

We’ve also supported projects for bees, cardboard recycling, and we run an outdoor-education programme called Countrylore Bushcraft. Those efforts have earned us recognition as business environmental leaders — something we’re very proud of.

Do you try to keep your furniture production local as well?

Absolutely. A big portion of our furniture is made right here in the UK. Our sales director Simon and the whole team really value the idea of “home-made” quality. Of course, we still source from Europe and Asia when it makes sense, but our sofas and mattresses come from British factories that keep traditional skills alive.

For us, the heart of great furniture retail is the perfect balance of quality and value.

CONTACT

Salisbury 01722 413532

Blandford 01258 458011

Thirty years on, you’re still going strong. What’s the secret to your success?

Without question — it’s our people. Our locations, loyal customers, and fantastic products all play a part, but our staff are the backbone of the business. We have over 25 amazing team members, and they’re the reason A World of Furniture continues to keeps going strong.

Looking back, how has 2025 been for the business?

It’s a challenging environment, but we’re stronger for it. The internet has been a blessing and a curse – great for marketing and online sales, but we’ll never lose our love for in-person shopping. We want every customer to come in and “Discover More.”

There’s just no substitute for sitting on a sofa, lying on a bed, or touching the craftsmanship of a piece of furniture. That personal connection is what we’re all about.

Finally, what’s next for A World of Furniture?

Lucy and I are incredibly grateful for everything this business — and our family — has given us. We’ve faced our share of hurdles, but we’re as committed as ever.

Looking ahead, we’ll be introducing more furniture brands, expanding our mattress collection and developing our recycling service. If 2025 is even better than last year, we’ll be thrilled. Here’s to the next 30 years!

After three decades, A World of Furniture remains a shining example of what passion, adaptability and integrity can build. Here’s to Mark, Lucy and the entire team — still helping Dorset and South Wiltshire “Discover More” after 30 remarkable years.

Dairy Meadow Lane, Southampton Road, Salisbury, SP1 2TJ

BLANDFORD SHOWROOM

Holland Way, Blandford Forum DT11 7TA

www.aworldoffurniture.co.uk

salisbury@aworldoffurniture.co.uk

blandford@aworldoffurniture.co.uk

SALISBURY SHOWROOM

Strategy-led campaigns and standout content that keep your audience clicking, reading, and responding, because great emails don’t just land in inboxes, they drive meaningful engagement.

01202 923800

hello@inspirationagency.co.uk

www.inspirationagency.co.uk

Harbour Hotel Southampton; A night of pure indulgence

Escaping to Southampton’s luxury Harbour Hotel for a soul-soothing winter reset

We delve into the continued popularity of staycations, exploring the idea of finding breaks that allow us to step away from our busy lives without travelling too far –maximising relaxation time with minimal effort.

With the pace of everyday life, it is increasingly important to find a way to escape, even just for one night: to reset the mind and body, and to reconnect with loved ones.

Our explorations take us to the Harbour Hotel in Southampton, the flagship hotel and spa of the renowned group. The super-yacht-inspired hotel is set just moments from the city centre beside the beautiful Ocean Village marina – wonderfully convenient for a quick getaway. The chain is known for its elevated experiences: stylish accommodation, vibrant restaurants and bars, and premium spa and wellness facilities.

My sister and I arrived ready for a long-awaited girls’ weekend and were instantly greeted by the warm reception team. They took the time to explain everything we needed to know, including the complimentary access to the spa – music to our ears.

As we step into the room, a sense of opulence washes over us. Our gaze is instantly drawn to the view of the harbour – there is something deeply calming about being near the water, instantly relaxing the soul and refocusing the mind.

Thought has been put into every detail: the elegant décor, the luxurious Bramley toiletries, the fluffy dressing gowns waiting in the wardrobe, and the tantalising complimentary gin we immediately poured to toast the start of our stay.

Even the coffee machine is a welcome addition, serving an excellent cup. A decaf option is included too – ideal for those of us who can’t risk caffeine after noon without counting sheep all night!

Once refreshed, our thoughts turn to the spa and a little pre-dinner unwind. We don our robes and matching slippers and cautiously step out of the room in search of the HarSPA. We soon find there was no need to be timid though, as we greet fellow guests in their matching attire. A short stroll and a lift ride later, we emerged directly into the spa reception, feeling a sense of relief that they even considered our modesty when designing the hotel.

The HarSPA has a collection of treatment rooms with an array of tempting therapies on offer, from massages and body scrubs to skin-boosting facials. You can also burn off life’s stresses in the fully equipped gym or, like us, head straight for the pool area with every intention of doing absolutely nothing.

On a crisp winter evening, the pool is pleasantly warm, making it easy to slip in and enjoy a gentle paddle – to help us feel we’d earned dinner. Once suitably satisfied with our “efforts”, we moved on to the jacuzzi, letting the heat and bubbles work their magic on tired muscles.

Feeling completely relaxed, we ventured to the steam room and sauna, allowing the warmth to work its wonders before wrapping ourselves back into our dressing gowns and settling on a couple of sun loungers on the outside terrace. There, we soaked up the opulence of the location, guessing who might own the impressive boats moored up in the marina.

Before leaving, we discovered the relaxation room – do not miss it. With plush beds and a refreshments station stocked with water, teas, and a coffee machine (fast becoming my new obsession), it is the perfect sanctuary for a quiet moment of reflection.

Back in the room, it’s time to shower and get ready for dinner. The thoughtful touches continue as I step beneath the oversized rain shower, spending far too long letting the water cascade over me, mentally planning a bathroom renovation just to experience this every day.

Having glammed ourselves up, we headed upstairs to HarBAR on 6th, thrilled that everything on this trip was mere moments away – making high heels suddenly a much more reasonable idea. Alternatively, guests can dine downstairs at The Jetty, depending on their mood.

Stepping out of the lift into the restaurant, we were met with a lively atmosphere, ambient lighting, and a festive flourish of Christmas décor. Seated beside a floor-toceiling window, our appreciation of the marina view only deepened.

With a crisp glass of rosé in hand, we browsed the carefullycurated menu – varied without being overwhelming. Having worked up an appetite in the pool, we committed wholeheartedly to an indulgent three-course dinner.

To begin, flying the flag for the vegetarians, I ordered the burrata served with caramelised fig and a honey–pistachio crumb. The creaminess of the cheese was a delightful contrast to the tart sweetness of the chutney and the earthy richness of the fig, taking the taste buds on a journey.

Carnivores, fear not — my sister had you covered with the crispy pork belly accompanied by Asian slaw and smoked chilli jelly. The pork had just the right kick of heat, balanced beautifully by the fresh, crunchy slaw — a perfect medley of flavours, and just the right size to whet the palate before the mains.

As the mains arrived the aroma of the pumpkin sage tortellini was deliciously tantalising, served with walnut butter and fried sage every bite was an explosion of flavour, magnified by the softness of pasta in contrast to the crunchier sweetness of the caramelised nuts. This dish felt like indulging in refined comfort food.

Feeling inspired by our stay next to the water my sister ordered the grilled stone bass accompanied by cherry vine tomato ragout, new potatoes, drizzled with avocado oil. The fish was beautifully cooked and was wonderfully flakey, with the creaminess of the sauce created a rich satisfying dish.

Briefly questioning if we had room for dessert, but secretly knowing there was no way we could resist, we surrendered to temptation. The naughty but nice rich chocolate tart, was pure decadence sending the taste buds into overdrive. Whilst the honeycomb parfait offered a lighter option but still worked it’s magic on satisfying the sweet craving.

Alongside dessert we sampled a couple of cocktails, their choices cater to all palates including a speciality menu designed to showcase Mermaid Gin. I don’t think you can go too wrong with what you order, but I highly recommend treating yourself to the Cherry Poppins – a delight in a glass.

Beyond the evening’s festivities, it’s worth noting that HarBAR on 6th offers far more than dinner and cocktails. By day, the bar area buzzes with relaxed sophistication, perfect for lingering over a leisurely Afternoon Tea complete with delicate pastries, warm scones, and savoury bites. Come the weekend, the kitchen turns its attention to hearty Sunday roasts — think generous cuts, crisp roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and rich gravy, all served with a sense of occasion. Whether you drop by for a casual lunch, pop up for pre-dinner drinks, or settle in for slow, indulgent weekend dining, the venue caters to every mood and moment.

As dinner drew to a close, we faced a tough decision: step into the bar area and enjoy an extra cocktail (or two), where you can immerse yourself in the music and lively atmosphere. Or retreat to room and snuggle down to watch a Christmas film… whatever your vibe is there is no wrong answer.

For me, the choice was easy. Having tested the bed earlier and discovering it felt like sinking into a warm, comforting hug, I could practically hear it calling my name. I was here to reset, and a good night’s sleep after an evening of relaxation was exactly what I wanted.

As I curled up beneath the duvet and took in the twinkling reflections across the harbour, a profound sense of calm washed over me. You would never believe you were in the heart of a city. Everything felt serene.

After a restful night’s sleep and a coffee in bed, we made our way back to HarBAR on 6th for breakfast. The continental spread catered for every taste – pastries, fruit, cereals, cheese, yoghurt pots… I could go on!

The cooked options were equally impressive. The vegetarian breakfast was generous and full of flavour, while the smoked salmon and scrambled egg bagel delivered a beautifully balanced classic.

Back in the room, we reluctantly finished packing. Our only regret? Not staying longer.

If you are looking for a taste of luxury, this is the place to go. Whether it’s for a romantic break or a getaway with friends and family, the hotel offers a perfect setting to unwind and recharge. A night away should be an unforgettable experience, and this is precisely what they have created, with an emphasis on thoughtful, lifestyle-led luxuries that elevate every moment. From the sumptuous spa to the beautifully considered rooms, it encourages you to slow down, savour the surroundings and truly switch off.

BOOKING ENQUIRIES

Tel. 02381 103 456

Email. southampton@harbourhotels.co.uk

www.harbourhotels.co.uk

The art of shade

How smart blinds & beautiful awnings are becoming the new must-have home feature

Why everyone’s talking about the quiet design revolution—and why Infiniti Shading should be your first call.

Step aside statement walls and bold sofas… the newest style obsession sweeping through homes isn’t a colour or a texture— it’s shade. Not just any shade, but beautifully engineered blinds, curtains and awnings that are transforming how we live, feel and even behave inside our homes. The design world has caught on, architects are specifying them early, and homeowners are discovering that the right window dressings aren’t an after-thought—they’re the feature that ties everything else together.

At the centre of this shading revolution is Infiniti, the specialists who have curated one of the most sophisticated and versatile collections of interior blinds, exterior awnings, and custom window products in the UK. If you think blinds are simply blinds… prepare to be pleasantly surprised.

Beyond basic blinds: A collection that changes the way you live Infiniti’s range is less a product list and more an interior design toolkit. Their vast collection includes every style, system and fabric imaginable—each one selected to elevate a space, enhance comfort and add a touch of quiet luxury.

Roller blinds, for example, are no longer plain white strips of fabric. Infiniti offer an exquisite palette of textures, patterns and colours, from blackout materials for the perfect night’s sleep to moisture-resistant prints ideal for bathrooms.

For homes with conservatories or large glass openings, pleated blinds provide superb climate control—cooler in summer, cosier in winter—while fitting even the most unusual window shapes. It’s functional beauty, reimagined.

Timeless, textural, transformative Some materials never go out of style. Venetian blinds, especially Infiniti’s natural timber range, offer warmth, depth and craftsmanship that feel at home in both modern and heritage spaces. For a sleek contemporary look, their aluminium options come in an exciting array of colours and finishes—proof that practical can be deeply stylish, all of which can be automated.

Then there are curtains… but not as you know them. Infiniti’s team specify, design, measure and hand-make bespoke curtains with fabrics from the world’s leading luxury brands—Silent Gliss, Creation Baumann, JAB Anstoetz and more. With thousands of colours and designs, plus every style of pleat or header, these curtains are sewn by expert seamstresses with an attention to detail rarely found today.

Add handcrafted curtain tracks—handdrawn, corded or fully motorised—and you have a combination of engineering and elegance that glides as beautifully as it looks.

The future? Automated, effortless, beautiful

Imagine waking to natural light at exactly the right moment… closing blinds with a whisper before movie night… or adjusting every window from your sofa, your phone, or even your home automation system. Infiniti specialise in fully motorised shades and blinds, with options for wireless, low-voltage or mains connection. The technology is seamless, reliable—and surprisingly affordable.

Their battery-powered systems, in particular, are a game-changer: no wiring, no hassle, just elegant automated shading at the touch of a button.

Awnings & exterior shading: Your garden’s new best friend

Exterior awnings are no longer just practical—they’re a lifestyle feature. They extend living spaces, protect interiors from harsh sunlight, and create elegant outdoor rooms made for entertaining. Infiniti’s exterior shading solutions are crafted for durability, beauty and smooth operation, providing instant style and comfort to patios, terraces and gardens.

Ready to transform your home? Start with shade.

Interior designers will tell you: the right shading doesn’t just complete a room— it elevates it. Whether you’re renovating, building, or simply refreshing a tired space, the experts at Infiniti will guide you through colours, fabrics, styles and technologies you didn’t even know existed.

For inspiration, ideas or a personalised consultation, give Infiniti a call today and discover how extraordinary your windows— and your home—can truly become.

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE HOT RADIO FAMILY!

FROM ALL OF US AT HOT RADIO, THANK YOU FOR TUNING IN, TURNING UP, AND BEING PART OF OUR COMMUNITY THIS YEAR.

WE’VE LOVED BRINGING YOU THE MUSIC, THE LAUGHS, AND THE LOCAL STORIES THAT MAKE OUR COMMUNITY BUZZ.

Dear England: The play that changed the game

James Graham on Gareth Southgate, masculinity, and rewriting the rules of football culture

The National Theatre’s acclaimed production Dear England embarks on its first ever national tour, visiting 16 venues around the country from September 2025 until March 2026. Sarah Crompton talks to the multiaward-winning stage and screen writer and writer of the play, James Graham.

There’s a lovely symmetry to the relationship of James Graham and the former England football manager Gareth Southgate. The playwright vividly remembers the night when Southgate as an England player missed a penalty. The moment that England were knocked out of Euro 96.

“I was acting in my first ever play, a production of Of Mice and Men, at my secondary school in Nottingham”, the 42-year-old remembers. “We were all watching the semi-final against Germany at Wembley on the TV as we came off stage. I’d been really into the tournament. It was at home, it was sunny. It was full of drama. And then Gareth missed that penalty. I was in tears going home in the car with my mum. I couldn’t make sense of it.”

That harrowing miss forms the starting point for Graham’s Dear England, his smash-hit play about Southgate’s eight years as manager of the men’s team, which is about to embark on its first national tour. This marks another milestone after its premiere at the National Theatre in 2023, its record-breaking transfer into the West End and its Olivier Award in 2024 for ‘Best New Play’. Now updated to encompass Southgate’s resignation after England’s defeat in the Euro 2024 final, it’s funny, insightful and heartbreaking in just about equal measure. More or less like watching England on the pitch.

The play uses Southgate’s revolutionary approach to winning – his belief that in order to conquer their fear of the penalty shootout, the players needed to cultivate a different, warmer and more inclusive version of masculinity - to examine the state of England itself, and of men’s role within an ever-changing society where allegiance to the national football team is a badge of pride.

“I love putting institutions and systems on stage, to help us make sense of our public life”, Graham explains. “The England football teams – the men’s and the women’s – have such an impact. Football as a culture is such a big part of our life. I went to watch Nottingham Forest the other day, and walking over the river to the stadium, it felt like walking to a cathedral in a community, with masses of people swarming towards it.

I wanted to find a story that would make sense of why it matters to us. And I was an England fan as well – it does something to me. I don’t know why I feel so emotional about it, but I do.”

He first thought of writing a play about Southgate after watching the team play at the World Cup in Russia in 2018, when for the first time since 1996, they won a penalty shootout on its way to the semi-finals. “I think like a lot of people, I noticed that it just felt immediately different”, Graham says. “Southgate’s conduct, the new generation of players, the new values and attitudes they carried with them. This wasn’t the traditional football I remembered, which was more aggressive. These guys had a nobility, a compassion and a decency which I thought was really striking. I was curious about how anyone can go into an old institution and begin to change its values and culture so quickly.”

As he read more, talking to football writers to check his conclusions, he realised Southgate was indeed trying something new: he had introduced a psychologist Pippa Grange to work with the players; he was cultivating a new ethos inside the camp. “The neatness and beauty of that arc, that the guy who was the emblem of missing a penalty was the guy who 20 years later came back to solve the problem was just incredible”, Graham says.

The FA asked Graham to wait to meet with Southgate, until the conclusion of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. By then, however, the National Theatre had decided to commission the play, and Graham went into the rehearsal rooms with the script unfinished. It was only weeks before opening night that he actually met Southgate. “It was all just research and imagination until the second week of rehearsal, when I went to meet Gareth face to face”, Graham says with a grin. “And that’s when you have to look your company in the eye and say ‘I might discover something that means we have to throw things out’. It was nerve-wracking.”

Some of that sense of working on a knife-edge transmits into the finished product. The director Rupert Goold, designer Es Devlin, movement directors Ellen Kane and Hannes Langolf and the entire creative team are all committed to creating a massively entertaining production that somehow captures the thrill of football itself, while simultaneously painting a broad-brush picture of Britain, its politics and its characters. The whole thing is full of energy.

Meeting Southgate did, in fact, change Graham’s view of him. “The thing that I saw behind his eyes, is that it is a mischaracterisation of him to think he is soft. He is kind, he’s really decent and he has an impossible amount of empathy, but he also wanted to win. I kept talking about how he changed the culture, but he was clear it was all about winning. It wasn’t just to feel good about ourselves.”

While Graham’s first version of Dear England – the title is taken from Southgate’s famous letter to fans during Covid and ahead of Euro 2020 – finished with Harry Kane missing a penalty against France at the World Cup in 2022, he has now updated it to take account of England’s ultimate loss to Spain in the final of Euro 2024.

Would it have been better for the play if England had won that tournament? “As a fan, it would have been, yes”, Graham says with a smile. “But as a playwright, it’s entirely fine. I think ultimately in any quest narrative, getting close but not quite getting the trophy is always profound and moving. The project is ongoing.

I am an advocate for what Gareth tried to do, and I want his legacy to be that it worked. That being kinder and having compassion and decency in football will also ultimately lead to getting the trophy.”

The theme of what it is to be a man in the modern world, which Southgate has continued to discuss since he left the England job, is very much current. Graham explains: “I believe a writer should try to capture the anxieties of the day and to find stories to make sense of them. The questions of gender and particularly masculinity have been present in our discourse for a while. It’s tough to be a young man at the moment.

Gareth Southgate and this team consciously led an inquiry into the nature of their own masculinity and identity in order to solve a problem. The fact that they asked those questions felt really thrilling. It doesn’t end with despair. It ends with the men learning something about themselves.”

As a playwright, Graham has never shirked either from tackling big questions or from real events. His first major hit in 2012 was This House, a play that asked questions about democracy through the prism of the manoeuvrings in parliament in the mid-1970s as a minority Labour government clung to power.

Quiz, premiered in 2017, looked at questions of honesty and the workings of reality TV by exploring the story of a cheating scandal on Who Wants to Be A Millionaire?. His television series Sherwood, now in its second season with a third commissioned, has a gripping plot that unfolds amidst the ongoing aftermath of the miners’ strike.

“I like the challenge of big themes. I am not always convinced I nail it, but I like to take a big state of the nation question and put it in a vehicle that can be a piece of popular theatre that can feel like a fun night out, or be on BBC One in primetime”, he says.

“But my rule is that what I write shouldn’t feel like a living newspaper. It shouldn’t feel like journalism on stage. You need to find a way of making a timeless, universal story that can be performed in 50 years’ time. That can only be about character. You have to focus on someone whose struggles and how they approach them says something about the human condition.”

The strength of Dear England – called “the decade’s biggest theatrical triumph” by one paper – is that it captures its issues in the net of pure entertainment, helping theatregoers understand the power of sport and sports lovers appreciate the appeal of theatre.

“I’ve loved hearing people saying that they suddenly understand why people care so much about sport. And seeing traditional sports goers sitting and enjoying a play. The audience is often on its feet at the end, dancing along to ‘Sweet Caroline’. We didn’t imagine that would happen. It taps into some visceral connectivity, which feels great.”

Dear England, the uplifting, thought-provoking and inspiring play about Gareth Southgate’s England men’s football team, is visiting Mayflower Theatre, Southampton on tour. “I’ve got so many happy memories on the South Coast but have sadly never had a play of mine staged in Southampton, so I’m beyond delighted that it’s this production that will achieve that milestone”.

Dear England is at Southampton’s Mayflower Theatre from 13 – 17 January 2026. Tickets mayflower.org.uk

Photos credit Marc Brenner

From heartbreak to hope: Julia’s House helps Skye’s family shine this Christmas

“They

said this would probably be our last Christmas together, and to make memories while we could.”

At Julia’s House, Christmas is a time for laughter and precious moments — but for the families the charity supports, it can also bring worry and grief.

The family of five-year-old Skye, who has a rare and unnamed degenerative condition, are sharing their story as part of the Julia’s House Christmas Appeal.

The charity hopes to raise £65,000 this festive season to help fund its specialist care for seriously ill children and much-needed support for exhausted families. Each year, Julia’s House must raise around £5.1m to provide care across Dorset and Wiltshire.

“Everything changed overnight”

Just months before her devastating diagnosis, Skye had been a bright, bubbly toddler — a “social butterfly” who loved singing ‘Girl on Fire’ by Alicia Keys and racing brothers Axel and Seth on her scooter.

Then, on her first day of nursery, everything changed. “We thought she’d had a stroke,” says mum Sophie, from Weymouth. “She suddenly stopped using her right side, her speech slurred, and within weeks she couldn’t walk, sit up, or even hold her head.”

Despite countless hospital tests, doctors couldn’t find a cause. The family was told to prepare for the worst — that this might be Skye’s last Christmas.

“We put up the tree and helped Skye place the star on top,” Sophie remembers. “It was joyful and heartbreaking all at once. We cried every day.”

Finding light in the darkest times

At their lowest point, Julia’s House swooped in. “We were terrified when we heard the word ‘hospice’,” says Sophie. “But when we walked in, there was laughter, colour, children playing. It was full of life.”

Nurses and carers began supporting the family with regular respite sessions for Skye at the hospice and at home, as well as sibling support for Axel, eight, and Seth, 10, and emotional and practical help for Sophie and Kyle.

“Julia’s House wraps us all in love and care — I don’t know where we’d be without them,” says Sophie. “Skye loves spending time with her nurses, and those few hours of respite mean more than you can imagine.”

“Our little girl is singing again” Last year, Skye began an experimental treatment — and to everyone’s amazement, she started to improve.

“After a few infusions, her speech started coming back,” Sophie says. “One day, Skye was in the bath singing ‘Girl on Fire’ again — and I just burst into tears.”

Now five, Skye is learning phonics, using her walker and dancing at home again. But what lies ahead is still unknown. Her ‘magic medicine’ has come to an end, and doctors don’t yet know how she will respond.

“We’re terrified the rug will be pulled from under us,” Sophie says. “But deep down we have faith that she will be okay, as there’s no other option.”

Giving back the gift of care

With only eight per cent of its ongoing funding from the Government, Julia’s House relies almost entirely on public donations to provide its lifeline of care.

“Skye loves to play at the hospice — it’s a joy to hear her giggling from the garden,” says her nurse, Claire. “But sadly, her future is still uncertain. We can only be there for families like Skye’s thanks to local support.”

This Christmas, Julia’s House is asking the public to help children like Skye enjoy being children, while their families find comfort and care when they need it most.

Julia’s House – more than you think Julia’s House is your local children’s hospice charity, caring for children with life-limiting and complex medical conditions and supporting their families.

The charity’s team brings clinical care, comfort and laughter to the whole family. At their hospices and in families’ homes, Julia’s House o ers regular respite care, end of life support, and wider help like therapies, practical advice and family fun days.

Donate today at juliashouse.org/Skye or call 01202 644220.

Portman Stone; Elevating living spaces

Reflecting on a remarkable year of craftsmanship at Portman Stone

As the festive season settles in and homes across Dorset glow with warmth, style, and celebration, it feels timely to spotlight the craftsmanship that shapes the spaces we gather in. Among the South Coast’s most quietly influential stone fabricators is Portman Stone—a family-run company whose work can be found in some of the region’s most refined kitchens, bathrooms and living spaces.

With over three decades of expertise, Portman Stone has earned its reputation not simply as a supplier of stone, but as a curator of beautiful, lasting interiors.

A portfolio for the modern luxury home

Portman Stone’s offering is as broad as it is considered. Their collection spans marble, granite, sintered stone, and premium engineered quartz, including their own exclusive Sergio Quartz line. Whether homeowners are seeking something quietly refined or architecturally bold, the team ensures that each surface tells its own story.

Beyond kitchens, their expertise extends to bathroom vanities, utility rooms, alfresco cooking spaces, bespoke tables, and made-to-measure stone features.

They also provide replacements, repairs and thoughtful aftercare, an increasingly rare touch that underscores their philosophy of long-term service, not shortterm transaction.

Craftsmanship that defines a space

A beautiful surface can transform a home, and Portman Stone understands this with rare sensitivity. Their fabrication process seamlessly blends cutting-edge

ABOVE

James Griffiths, Director at Portman Stone

technology with traditional artisanal skills, enabling them to achieve precision detailing, from book-matched veining to bespoke laminated edges that feel as luxurious to the touch as they appear to the eye.

Each project is approached holistically. How will the stone interact with cabinetry? How will sunlight move across a polished finish? How will LED backlighting enhance translucency or movement? These are the questions that set Portman Stone apart. In their hands, a worktop becomes a centrepiece; a table becomes a sculpture; a bathroom vanity becomes an experience.

Service rooted in care and expertise

Exceptional materials are meaningful only when paired with exceptional service. Portman Stone’s team is known for its genuine warmth, expert guidance, and meticulous attention to detail at every stage, from quotation and survey to installation and aftercare.

As they often say, their aim is simple:

“We believe a surface should be timeless to look at, practical to live with and crafted to last.”

It’s a standard that has earned them the trust of designers, builders, and discerning homeowners across the South Coast.

Looking ahead to a stylish 2026

With the new year on the horizon, many will be considering how to refresh, elevate, or simply reimagine the spaces they spend the most time in. For those planning a kitchen renovation, bathroom update, or statement stone feature in 2026, Portman Stone offers not just materials, but a partnership, expert, honest, and beautifully executed.

To explore the full range, including the Sergio Quartz collection, visit portmanstone.com or contact the team to begin your design journey.

CONTACT

01202 484340

info@portmanstone.com

ADDRESS

1 Airfield Way, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 3PE

WEBSITE www.portmanstone.com

Regular servicing keeps your swim spa performing at its best, ensuring clean, safe water and smooth, powerful operation. With so many components working together - from pumps and jets to heaters and filtration - routine maintenance helps prevent issu es before they start. It’s the simplest way to protect your investment and enjoy uninterrupted fitness, fun, an d relaxation all year round.

Cleaner, healthier water

Str onger, smoother performance

R educed running costs

Fewer unexpected issues

Long er system lifespan

Let Eco Log Burners light up your Christmas

Create a festive home that glows with comfort and conscience, with Eco Log Burners’ stunning sustainable stoves.

As winter draws in and Christmas sparkles on the horizon, there’s nothing quite like the comforting glow of a real fire. Picture it — the tree twinkling in the corner, laughter bubbling from the kitchen, family gathered close as soft flames dance in the hearth. It’s the heart of the festive home — and at Eco Log Burners, that’s exactly what they help create.

Based in Dorset, Eco Log Burners specialise in stunning, sustainable heating solutions that transform your living space into a cosy, inviting haven. Their purpose is simple yet powerful: to accelerate the use of attractive and sustainable heating by offering stunning and sustainable home centrepieces.

With a wide range of modern, efficient log burners and eco-friendly stoves, they combine timeless beauty with cuttingedge technology. Each model is carefully

chosen for its design, performance and environmental credentials — because warmth shouldn’t come at the planet’s expense.

Whether you prefer sleek Scandinavian styling or the charm of a traditional castiron stove, Eco Log Burners offer something for every home and taste. Their expert team provide professional installation and honest advice, ensuring your new fire not only looks incredible but runs efficiently and safely too.

A log burner isn’t just a source of heat — it’s an experience. The gentle crackle, the soft amber glow, the way everyone seems to gather a little closer when it’s lit. This festive

season, make your home feel truly magical with a sustainable centrepiece that brings warmth, comfort and conscience together.

From everyone at Eco Log Burners — wishing you a warm and bright Christmas.

CONTACT

07568 197979

EMAIL info@ecologburners.co.uk

The secret to a stress-free Christmas? Clever storage!

Transform your home with beautifully crafted fitted furniture from Custom Creations — where family, comfort and craftsmanship come together.

As the first frost glistens on windows and the scent of cinnamon and orange peel drifts from mince-pie platters, many of us start to look at our homes with fresh eyes. Suddenly, the spare room isn’t just a spare room anymore—it’s where little cousins might tumble in for a sleep-over, where the tree glows under twinkling lights and where laughter and wrapping-paper chaos will fill the air for the next few weeks.

From the coats piled high in the hallway to the wrapping paper mountain in the lounge, Christmas has a funny way of reminding us just how much we use every corner of our homes.

That’s where Custom Creations come in.

This friendly, family-run business based in Verwood, Dorset, specialise in designing and crafting bespoke fitted furniture that transforms homes — making space for the things (and people!) that truly matter.

With over 40 years of experience, they’ve built their reputation on craftsmanship, creativity and care. Every wardrobe, shelving unit, home office or lounge display is made to measure by their talented team of designers and joiners right here in Dorset — and each piece is created with the same goal: to make your home work beautifully for you.

Because every home has its quirks

Every home has those awkward corners, sloping ceilings or under-used nooks that never quite seem to work — until Custom Creations get involved. Whether it’s a fitted wardrobe that makes the most of your bedroom space, a sleek home office that

fits perfectly into a spare room, or lounge furniture designed to showcase your favourite Christmas decorations, their team can make it happen.

And because everything is tailor-made, there’s no “that’ll do” approach — just clever design, smart storage and stylish finishes that reflect your personality.

A family company with heart Walk into the Custom Creations showroom in Verwood and you’ll feel the difference immediately. There’s a warmth and friendliness that comes from being a true family business.

There are no commission-driven sales, no pressure, and no one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, you’ll find honest advice, thoughtful design ideas and a team who care as much about your home as you do. From the first chat to the final polish on your fitted furniture, they make the process simple, enjoyable and stress-free.

The beauty of a home that works

As we gather with family and friends over the festive season, it’s often the little things that make the biggest difference — a calm, clutter-free bedroom for guests, a cosy living room that feels welcoming, or a space that simply works for the way your family lives.

Custom Creations’ fitted furniture is all about creating those moments of ease and comfort. A hallway that finally has space for everyone’s coats and boots. A child’s bedroom where toys have their own homes. A living room where shelves hold both style and sentiment — from fairy lights to photo frames.

These aren’t just design solutions; they’re lifestyle upgrades. Beautifully made, built to last, and designed around you.

Crafted in Dorset, loved everywhere

Every piece is designed and built locally in their Dorset workshop, using quality materials and expert craftsmanship. And because they’re so confident in their work, everything they create comes with a 25year guarantee — so you can enjoy your furniture for many Christmases to come.

Whether you’re dreaming of a bit more space, better organisation, or simply a home that feels calmer and more “you,” Custom Creations can make it a reality.

A warm Christmas wish

As the year draws to a close and the lights twinkle on another festive season, the team at Custom Creations want to say a heartfelt thank you to all their wonderful customers — past, present and future.

From our family to yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a happy, peaceful New Year. Here’s to homes filled with warmth, laughter, and a little extra space for joy.

We are specialists with over 30 years experience supplying and fitting blinds, shutters and awnings. A family owned business based in Bournemouth, we service the Dorset and Hampshire area. We offer stylish blinds and shutters for the home, as well as commercial blinds and shutters.

us today to transform your room 01202 848628 | info@tuscanyblinds.uk

income depending on the circumstances of your property.

ELECTRIC GATE SERVICING

Regular servicing keeps your electric gates operati ng smoothly, safely, and reliably. With constant expos ure to weather, moving parts, and electrical components , routine maintenance helps prevent faults before the y become costly repairs. It also ensures your gates remain secure, responsive, and compliant with safet y standards - protecting both your property and the people who use them.

Improved gate security

Reliable daily operation

Low er repair costs

Enhanc ed safety compliance

Long er system lifespan

Book your pre-Christmas electric gate service today to secure your slot and enjoy smooth, hassle-free access to your property over the holidays.

Call us: 01202 980107

Email us: sales@hitechgroup.co.uk

Website: www.hitechservices.uk

Protecting your solar investment

Is your solar system safe? Tincleton makes sure!

When you choose Tincleton Solar Systems, you’re not simply installing panels — you’re engaging a full-service partner committed to harnessing solar energy safely, efficiently and reliably for your home. From design through installation, performance monitoring and inspection, they look after every stage of the process so you can enjoy the benefits of renewable energy with confidence.

One of the standout services Tincleton Solar Systems offer is the Solar System Inspection & Investigation Service. During this thorough inspection, Tincleton technicians carry out a full site review — including the roof structure, the solar array’s fixing integrity, inverter and electrical components, and an engineering-report detailing findings and recommendations.

Why does this matter for homeowners?

Quite simply, a solar installation that hasn’t been fitted or maintained properly can affect more than just energy generation. Poor mounting, degraded wiring or weather damage might reduce system output, but also raise safety or insurance risks.

PICTURED LEFT

John Scott, owner of Tincleton Solar Systems

Home insurers increasingly ask whether solar systems are regularly inspected and maintained — a neglected or noncertified system could jeopardise a claim if something goes wrong.

Tincleton Solar Systems emphasises preventive care. By commissioning an inspection you gain a clear status report: Is your system performing as expected? Is the fixing sound? Are the electrical components safe and compliant? This level of oversight helps ensure optimal performance, longer lifespan of equipment, and safeguards your home’s insurance standing.

In short, by choosing Tincleton Solar Systems you’re choosing more than solar panels: you’re choosing peace of mind. Their inspection services provide the detailed oversight that smart homeowners appreciate — turning a renewable energy installation into a well-managed asset.

From nutcrackercore to ‘nonna holiday’ and gothmas, here’s what’s shaping the holiday season.

One of the wonders of Christmas is putting up the decorations… and foraging for those sentimental trinkets, glitzy trimmings, garlands and twinkling lights galore.

But what if you’re rethinking your Christmas aesthetic; fancy a shift in style and theme, and have your heart set on making a statement to create something meaning and memorable?

“I really feel like now more than ever, it’s about personal expression and making every person that you’re gifting to – and that you’re bringing into your home – feel seen and making them feel special,” says Dayna Isom Johnson, trend expert for Etsy online marketplace.

Trending festive themes for Christmas decor

RIGHT

Pink Stripe Faux Fur Stocking, £10; Knitted Stocking with Tassels, £12, rest of items from a selection, Dunelm | Dunelm/PA

“And it’s about releasing the cookie cutter… look of it all in the past, and focusing more on that personal expression – and what really speaks to you.”

With a focus on nostalgia, detailed table settings, colourful accessories, ballet influences and moody themes, here’s how to express your inner self this festive season…

ABOVE

CandleLume Baguette Candle - 4 Wick Beeswax Bread Scented Candle, £16.42, Etsy | CandleLume/ Etsy/PA

| John Lewis/PA

1. Nonna holiday

“Nonna holiday is all about the nostalgia of it all,” highlights Johnson. “It’s about thinking back to your grandmother’s kitchen, your mother’s kitchen.

“Think lace doilies, recipe boxes, items that have been passed down from generation to generation. It’s bringing the nostalgia of the Christmas season into your present day home,” enthuses Johnson.

In addition, she suggests thinking about items that look straight out of the garden… candles that look like tomatoes; or a scented sliced baguette to evoke homemade bread recipes.

“All of those nostalgic moments that look special and kind of a throwback, adding that sense of character.”

RIGHT

John Lewis Gingerbread Cotton Tea Towel, Multi, £6; John Lewis Gingerbread Round Cake Tin, Red/Multi, £12; John Lewis Snowman Fine China Spoon Rest, White, £5; rest of items from a selection, John Lewis

Supper Club

“The supper club trend is all about creating a beautiful tablescape that’s just as beautiful as the food you’re serving,” explains Johnson. “So looking and paying attention to every single detail.

“Do you have really beautiful wine charms? Are there placemats? Is there a beautiful tablecloth? Do you have name cards? All of these things that, again, are making your guests feel seen and appreciated.”

“And from your side, as the person who’s executing the décor, taking the time to really knock out every single detail,” suggests Johnson, who reveals she’s a hostess to the max.

“I love hosting… so I will absolutely be doing beautiful tablescaping that’s going to, hopefully, blow my friends’ minds – and leave them like, ‘oh my gosh, I can’t believe you did all of this.’”

“And I will say: ‘Absolutely, I did that,’” she says smiling.

ABOVE

Christmas Jute

Placemats, £50, (Set of 6); rest of items from a selection | The Braided Rug Company/PA

RIGHT

Cocktail Collection

Martini Glasses - Set of 2, £16, ProCook | ProCook/PA

Play haus

“This is really where you’re going to let your imagination fly freely,” enthuses Johnson. “This is when you’re tapping into your childlike wonder.

“It’s colour drenched. It’s your dopamine fix. This is when maximalists really get to play with décor.”

And if you’re into dopamine dressing, now’s the time to get playful and creative with homewares. Top tip: “Really allowing your childlike adventure and sensibility, to really fly freely.

“Think of cartoonish ceramics, those very bright colours, really allowing yourself to play – and not take the Christmas season too seriously.”

She continues: “Colour clash, print clash… think of this as the most imaginative playhouse you can dream of as a child – and you’re now bringing it to life for Christmas.” LEFT

Noreservationssk Italian Dinner Napkins ??? Set of 4

Linen, £57.82, Etsy | Noreservationssk/ Etsy/PA

Martini Glasses,

Nutcrackercore

What Johnson loves about this trend are the different influences from Nutcrackercore. “You have inspiration from the actual nutcrackers, which are so ornately designed.”

“But then you have part two, which is being inspired by the actual performance of The Nutcracker itself,” she explains. “So you’ll see lots of influences from the ballet.

“This is when those really soft, flowing fabrics, chiffons and translucent come in, which you can work within your table décor; and certainly within your tree design as well.”

She continues: “So think of the softness of the ballet, the ornate design of the actual nutcracker, and, of course, the velvet ribbons that come with all of those.”

Think ribbons tied around a ballet slipper, and how that’s inspired into home décor, suggests Johnson. “Ribbons on wreaths to hang on your door; or ribbons you can tie onto candles.”

There are so many inspirational touch points from Nutcrackercore, she highlights. “It’s not just the actual Nutcracker, but also within the performance of the ballet.”

ABOVE

TheRibbonOnTop Satin Bow Taper Candles, (Set of 2), £40.47, Etsy | TheRibbonOnTop/Etsy/PA

LEFT

Nutcracker Ballet Giant Hanging Decorations (x 3)

- The Nutcracker Soldier, Sugar Plum Fairy and the Mouse King, £27; rest of items from a selection, Meri Meri | Meri Meri/PA

Gothmas

And then we go dark and dramatic with a gothic twist and celestial motifs…

“I am such a fan of gothmas,” confesses Johnson. “I love this because it’s so surprising, and that’s what gets me excited when something new comes around. And while this isn’t a new idea, it’s new for Christmas.”

Said to embrace the shadowy side of winter, “this is more just the moodiness of it all, and I love that it’s not only with black, but also inspired by celestial themes,” explains Johnson.

So you’ll see lots of Victorian curvatures in items, she points out, especially within candle holders, candelabras etc. But says to also think about materials such as polka dots, and black lace that can be used for table décor.

“Again, black candles, lots of heavy velvets, all of these things that read very sophisticated and moody. But you add that level of celestial themes too, with the moon and stars, and it really elevates it.”

Along with black accents, Johnson says for gothmas, “it’s leaning into the deep jewel tones, like the emerald greens, like the navy, alongside that moody black.”

And if you’re dreaming of a chic Christmas, a monochrome palette with magical touches such as a crescent moon topper really brings home the look of luxe… while championing a heavenly scheme.

Words by Sam Wylie-Harris, PA

ABOVE

TruGlow Black Dripping Wax LED Candle Trio, £20.99, Lights4fun | Lights4fun/PA

LEFT

SuzanneOddyDesign Crescent Moon Tree Topper, £86.10, Etsy | SuzanneOddyDesign Etsy/PA

Where outdoor design meets inspired living

Inside The Landscape Service’s creative process for designing timeless, functional gardens.

The Landscape Service is an award-winning Landscape and Garden Design practice based in The New Forest, Hampshire. Founded in 2017, the practice consists of three landscape designers who design and deliver a variety of landscapes and gardens in Hampshire, Dorset, and surrounding counties.

Why use a professional garden designer?

A qualified and experienced designer will create a space around your lifestyle, needs, and requirements. They will interpret your brief to create a highly functional, aesthetically pleasing and more fulfilling environment to enjoy with your friends and family.

A designer will also save you time and money, making their design fee invaluable. They will have years of experience, knowledge, and industry connections, directing you to the best contractors, materials, and plants for your project.

What kinds of garden projects do you specialise in?

We work on private properties of varying scale and budget, from small urban spaces to large country estates, which include ultramodern and traditional architecture.

We also collaborate with architects, planning consultants, and property developers on a wide range of commercial projects that include affordable housing, luxury new builds, and public spaces.

PICTURED RIGHT

Photo credit @thehouseofcanfordcliffs & Kube Visuals Ltd

What areas to you cover?

We are based on the Hampshire, Dorset border and cover the South. Most of our projects are located in Poole, Dorset.

Is autumn/winter a good time to start landscaping work?

Autumn and winter are good times to start the design process for a project. This allows plenty of time to thoughtfully design the space and obtain comparative quotes for the build. A designer can also advise on lead times for landscape contractors, materials, and planting availability.

What trends are you seeing in garden design right now?

Presenting designs in Virtual Reality (VR) has significantly increased over the last few years. This is a great way for the whole family to get involved in the design process and fully immerse yourself in your new garden before it is even built. VR allows you to understand the design, scale, and spatial arrangement of the new space.

Our design studio has a collaborative work environment where we discuss and present design proposals both on screen and with the use of VR.

Can you work to a set budget – and what can people realistically expect to achieve?

Yes, we can design to a set budget. There are industry standard costs per sqm we can apply to a design to broadly calculate the build cost. A designer will provide great value for money, not only creating your dream garden, but also advise on where your budget is best spent for maximum effect, this will also improve the value of your property.

Do you handle everything from design to build?

Yes, we provide a full design and build service managing every aspect of the process from initial design proposals to build coordination. Our small team of designers communicate closely with you from the outset to ensure the design brief, needs and requirements are creatively achieved and delivered affordably.

We would first complete the design process which include 2D artistic plans, 3D visuals, and walkthrough animations of the proposed space.

Then, we will produce detailed drawings and planting plans. These drawings are used to request formal quotations for the build and to accurately construct the garden. Following the appointment of a landscape contractor we can then oversee the build on your behalf.

We also provide a supply and installation service for all soft landscaping elements.

What’ the best way for someone to get in touch and start the process?

The best way to get in touch and begin your garden design journey is by visiting www. thelandscapeservice.com, where you can explore our work and submit an enquiry.

You can also reach us directly at info@ thelandscapeservice.com or by calling 02381 980022 to speak with a member of the team.

For design inspiration and updates, be sure to follow us on social media @thelandscapeservice.

MOTORING NEWS

Mark Slack tells us the latest news on all things motoring.

DACIA SPRING IMPROVEMENTS

Budget brand Dacia has improved on its allelectric Spring model in a bid to make it more attractive to those wanting a more affordable route into electric driving. The series of updates include two, new, more powerful motors that offer stronger performance along with changes to the chassis.

Since its launch in 2021, Spring has sold more than 179,000 units in Europe (up to June 2025). This year it has sold 17,000 examples, securing second place in the European market for electric. In terms of ride and handling the car gains an antiroll bar for the first time, standard on all versions. This improves the car’s stability in corners and is further enhanced by the adoption of new settings for the shock absorbers and suspension springs.

Styling and aerodynamic improvements on the Spring include a set of fairings at the front, sides and rear, designed to reduce aerodynamic turbulence under the car, and a new spoiler limits turbulence around the upper part of the rear tailgate.

Two new motors, 70 hp and 100 hp, replace the previous 45 hp and 65 hp units. These offer more power and torque between 50 and 75 mph and make the car that bit more driveable and relaxed on faster roads. The benchmark 62mph acceleration benchmark is now significantly reduced with the new 70hp power unit taking a whisker over 10 seconds and the more powerful 100hp in just 6.9 seconds.

These new powertrains work with a new 24.3 kWh battery, which uses Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) technology for the first time in the Renault Group, which owns Dacia. The Spring is also the lightest fourseater electric car on the market, weighing in at around one tonne which contributes to delivering a useable urban range.

The new 70 hp powertrain is available with the Expression trim, while the new 100 hp powertrain is available in the Extreme model. All Spring models feature Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, the Media Display system is standard with the Extreme trim. Spring Extreme is also available with Media Nav providing connected navigation for a period of eight years, with real-time traffic conditions and continuously updated European maps. Pricing will be announced nearer the launch date early next year.

NEW KIA EV4 REVEALED

The Kia EV4 is the Korean brand’s first allelectric C-segment hatchback, produced in Slovakia the long-range version is powered by an 81kWh battery that has up to 391 miles of range on a single charge, depending of course on driving style and conditions.

There is a 58kWh standard battery, and both battery options power a frontmounted 150kW motor, allowing the EV4 to accelerate from 0-62mph in 7.7 seconds (7.4 seconds for the standard battery) and reach a top speed of 105mph.

A Fastback model joins the hatchback and features larger of the two battery options but shares the same motor as the hatchback, providing a maximum range of up to 388 miles. The Fastback has a luggage capacity of 490 litres. Both variants feature Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability for powering external devices and Vehicle-toGrid (V2G) technology for energy sharing.

As with all new cars, irrespective of manufacturer, the EV4 comes equipped with a comprehensive advanced driver assistance

system, or driver annoyance systems if you’re of a certain age and grumpiness! Using a network of cameras and radars, it constantly monitors its surroundings to help detect potential hazards.

There are three trim levels – Air, GT-Line and GT-Line S with prices starting from £34,695. Key features include heated front seats and steering wheel, 12” touchscreen navigation, rear parking camera, heated and powered folding door mirrors. The Kia App that unlocks the EV4 include remote vehicle access, driving insights, and maintenance tools. In addition, over-theair (OTA) updates add to the functionality.

A certain level of access is permanently included, some features are free for a period of time but once expired are part of paid subscription tiers.

Drivers can locate charging stations, monitor their charging sessions, and plan routes with designated charging stops using the Kia App. The latest update to the EV Route Planner enables users to specify a target charge level directly from the map view, for both their final destination and each selected charging stop throughout the journey.

The integrated Google Places provide navigation data regarding parking availability, operational hours, pricing, and user reviews. Furthermore, the EV4 is Kia’s first vehicle equipped with factory-installed online navigation, enabling customers to navigate with the latest map.

The EV4 also includes Digital Key 2, which allows owners to unlock the vehicle with a compatible smartphone or smartwatch instead of conventional keys. The Kia Digital Key also supports remote access sharing with others, such as family members or friends.

MAZDA CX-80 –DISCREET STYLE WITH PREMIUM QUALITY

When asked about large, luxury SUVs most people will always mention Range Rover (of course), Audi and BMW. Think about the Range Rover Velar, BMW X3 and Audi Q5. Well there is an overlooked rival here, and bear with me, it’s from Mazda. The CX-80 meets all the criteria, it’s large, it’s luxury and it comes with all-wheel-drive.

It may be somewhat subdued on the looks front when compared to a Range Rover or German rivals but sometimes discreet is good. It’s one of those kind of cars where those that know, know, and not least because it’s full of standard equipment, extremely well bolted together, has a feeling of premium quality and in diesel form has a superb 6-cylinder in-line straight six engine. There’s also the CX-60 which is effectively a smaller but still surprisingly capacious version.

Now I don’t dispute that those in search of badge one-upmanship will gravitate towards more well-known premium motors and dismiss my comparison, but the Mazda is more about value for money luxury. Both in terms of running costs and the initial purchase price the Mazda is not inexpensive but it offers an affordable touch of quality when you look at the cost of SUV rivals.

These days some may baulk at the option of diesel power but Mazda has always supplied excellence in its engineering and the e-Skyactive D engine comes with mild hybrid assistance, excellent economy and low emissions. It also performs well, not that the CX-80 is the kind of vehicle you’ll be piloting at speed across twisting crosscountry roads, but in its most powerful diesel form it reaches the benchmark 62 mph in just 8.4 seconds.

In my view in-line straight six engines always return superb driver feedback and the Mazda is no exception. The 8-speed automatic transmission is a smooth affair and the engine seems to offer endless reserves of ‘pull’ and in 254PS form provides 550Nm of torque.

It seemed to me impossible not to find a comfortable driving position in the CX80 and the interior is not only of superb quality but provides buttons rather than endless touch screen mania that seems to prevail nowadays. My only real niggle is that the overall ride quality is sometimes compromised over rougher surfaces but I suspect most would not even notice such minor imperfections.

If you want an affordable touch of luxury SUV on your drive then the CX-80 is well worth a drive. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

HYUNDAI INSTER – A MATTER OF STYLE

Hyundai’s Inster is probably the most marmite car I have driven in many a while, its somewhat avant-garde styling divided opinion but the majority who saw my test car, despite the Inster’s many qualities, weren’t keen. My test model wasn’t helped by the fact that it was finished in matte black. While styling is very much a matter of personal taste, I suspect the Inster’s characterful looks won’t appeal to all.

There used to be a saying ‘small car with big car features’. The Inster appears to have many features that aren’t even seen in a lot of larger cars. On the lead-in Inster standard fare includes navigation, climate, smart cruise, powered heated, adjustable and folding door mirrors, auto lights and wipers, rear parking sensors and rear-view monitor, Apple Car Play and Android Auto. My midrange test model added heated seats and steering wheel, reclining and sliding rear seats, fold flat front seats, rear privacy glass, wireless mobile phone charging and a 49kwh longer range battery.

The boot is really only good for three or four carrier bags of shopping, and your jumbo pack of kitchen rolls will be on the back seat. Inside though, the occupants fare better with admirable space given the Inster’s modest dimensions.

On the road the Inster gives the usual anodyne driving feel that comes with most EVs but is relieved by the instant torque of electric power. It surprises many with its low range acceleration. The driving range makes it a largely urban car in my view, 223 miles, unless you like logistical planning and have the time to wait for charging on

the overly expensive public network. Have a home charger though and the Inster makes a fine urban commuter car.

As someone who almost has standard paragraphs to express my annoyance at driver assistance systems, and complete touchscreen takeover, the Inster is a good news story. There are buttons! Although there is a touchscreen the important features can be controlled via button presses. Even the driver assistance system is relatively quiet with its bings, bongs and chimes.

The Inster feels like it’s built to a price, £26,755 for my 02 trim level, but what it lacks in tactile feel it more than makes up for in equipment levels. Overall, this is a very cleverly thought-out car that offers an excellent array of standard features and lots of interior cabin space. Use it with a home charger for largely urban driving and at the price – very affordable for an EV – it’s an attractive package if you are taken by the style.

XPENG G6 –PRACTICAL AND STYLISHLY MODERN

There doesn’t seem to have been a month go-by, this past year, when yet another new Chinese EV hasn’t been launched. Despite your personal views of Chinese car makers, and there are many who aren’t fans, no one can deny their technological prowess, especially with EVs. One of the newer entrants is XPENG.

Only formed in 2014 the company now offer four models and the focus of our attention is the G6 mid-size coupe SUV.

Priced from £39,990 the line-up is a simple, straightforward affair with standard or long range and thanks to excellent standard equipment very few options.

The standard 66kwh battery provides for a potential 270-miles with the larger 87.5kwh long-range (£44,990) offering a possible 354 miles. As we all know these test condition range figures are not going to happen, and that’s not down to manufacturers but regulations as to how the tests are completed. That said I found the XPENG figures closer to the ‘official’ figures than some competitors.

XPENG say that it can charge from 10-80% in just 20 minutes, but you will need to find a super-fast charger and be able to wince when you pay the bill for your charge-up. If you have a home charger then EVs can work well in terms of cost, and for commuting practicality too.

Standard fare on the G6 is extensive and includes heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, power front seats, panoramic glass roof, two mobile phone chargers, adaptive cruise, power tailgate, 15” centre screen and a 10.6” driver’s screen.

Add to that an 8-year 100k battery warranty and the car itself has a 5-year 75k warranty plus bodywork guarantee.

The interior looks impressive in a lighter colour and rather ordinary in black, but is very comfortable in either. As ever there’s touchscreen for pretty much everything, which is never a good thing in mine and lot of peoples’ view. You can’t beat buttons, but maybe it’s an age thing!

Thanks to the instant response from an EV the acceleration is incredibly useful if you need to nip past a slower moving car or at a busy junction. The G6 passes the benchmark 62 mph in just 6.6 seconds. Despite its size the G6 is an easy and relaxed drive, in terms of manoeuvrability and visibility there’s little to fault. It’s not one you’d be thrashing round country lanes or cross-country routes point-to-point. As a family car, practical and stylishly modern it’s an EV that should be on your potential shopping list.

Grit, speed, and family: Jayden Shearing’s standout season

Exclusive Q&A With Rising Karting Star Jayden Shearing

Rising young racer Jayden has come a long way since we first interviewed him during his rental karting days. Now competing at a far higher level, he reflects on the key moments, lessons, and progress that have shaped his standout season.

Jayden, it’s great to have you back with us. The first time we interviewed you, you were racing in rental kart championships. Looking back, what did that first year teach you?

Jayden: That was my foundation year. Everyone had identical karts, so it really came down to driving skill. I learned racecraft, how to handle pressure, and I realised how much I loved the sport. It set the tone for everything that’s followed.

The following year you made the big jump to owner karting and joined Nibsport. How much of a step up was that?

It was huge. Suddenly I was responsible for my own kart’s performance—setup, tyres, engine tuning, the lot. Joining Nibsport helped massively because I had experienced people guiding me. It made me much more focused and competitive.

This year you came off your novice plates and immediately started fighting at the front. How does it feel racing at that level now?

It feels amazing. The pace is faster, the competition is tougher, and every decision matters. But this is exactly the level I’ve been working to reach.

Your biggest highlight was taking fifth place at the Southern Championships—your first race back after a knee injury. That must have felt special. That trophy means a lot. I’d taken a couple of months off to heal, so I wasn’t sure how I’d perform coming back. Finishing fifth in such a strong field was a massive confidence boost.

You also collected Top Novice awards from both Clay Pigeon Kart Club and Forest Edge Kart Club, plus a fourth-place trophy at Clay Pigeon. What did those achievements mean to you? Those awards showed real progress. Being recognised as top novice at two clubs felt brilliant, and the fourthplace at Clay Pigeon was another highlight—it’s a challenging track with strong drivers.

This year you made the A Final at every National Kart Cup round you entered. How proud are you of that consistency?

Really proud. Making every A Final shows I’m becoming a solid front-runner, not just having occasional good races.

We’ve also heard that your dad, Wayne, has stepped up to become your full-time mechanic. How has that changed things?

It’s honestly been amazing. Dad learning the mechanical side and supporting me in the paddock has brought us even closer. We’ve built a proper bond through the early mornings, late nights, and all the problem-solving. I couldn’t do it without him.

Who has been your biggest support on your journey?

Honestly, I’ve been really lucky to have a huge amount of support behind me. My sponsors — Yesss Electrical, Edgewater Homes, and BH Live — have been incredible.

Without them, I simply wouldn’t be able to race at this level. They’ve backed me from early on, believed in my potential, and helped give me the opportunities I need to keep progressing. I’m genuinely grateful for everything they do.

And of course, my family has been massive for me too. My uncles are at the track almost every race weekend, shouting encouragement from the sidelines and keeping my spirits high no matter how the day is going. Having that kind of support, people who show up for you rain or shine, makes such a difference. They remind me why I love this sport and push me to keep giving it everything.

We can’t wait to see what’s next, Jayden. Thank you! I’m excited for what’s to come.

If you are interested in joining a kart racing team please call 07756070598 @nibsport_racing

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Inside the Land of the Rising Lifespan

Barbara Cox-Lovesy on the cultural foundations of Japan’s remarkable longevity

In Land of the Rising Lifespan, available now on Amazon, Barbara Cox-Lovesy invites readers into the heart of a culture where longevity is not a medical achievement but a way of life. Drawing from her time living in Japan and her deep fascination with the country’s remarkable life expectancy, she uncovers the subtle, everyday practices that help its people thrive well into old age. Through insights on purpose, community, humour, and mindful living, Cox-Lovesy reveals that the secret to a longer, more fulfilling life isn’t found in a single habit — but in a lifestyle rooted in intention and connection.

What inspired you to write Land of the Rising Lifespan?

I was fascinated by how Japan consistently ranks among the top countries for life expectancy. After living in Japan and observing the culture firsthand, I wanted to explore the deeper reasons — not just diet and healthcare, but also mindset, community, and purpose.

What’s the biggest misconception people have about Japanese longevity?

Many assume it’s just about eating fish and rice. While diet plays a role, it’s the combination of ikigai (a sense of purpose), strong social ties, and daily movement that truly sets Japan apart. Longevity is a lifestyle, not a prescription.

You mention “micro-habits” in the book. Can you give an example?

Absolutely. One example is the practice of hara hachi bu — eating until you’re 80% full. It’s a simple habit, but over a lifetime, it reduces overeating and supports metabolic health. Another is walking or biking daily, even into old age.

How does community influence lifespan in Japan?

Community is everything. In places like Okinawa, elders are deeply integrated into society. They have moai — social groups that provide emotional and financial support. This sense of belonging reduces stress and keeps people mentally engaged.

What can Western cultures learn from Japan’s approach?

We can learn to slow down, prioritize connection, and find joy in simplicity. It’s not about copying Japanese life, but about adapting the principles: eat mindfully, move naturally, stay socially active, and live with purpose.

Did anything surprise you during your research?

Yes — how much joy and humour older Japanese people have. Aging isn’t feared; it’s embraced. Many centenarians still garden, dance, or even run businesses. That vitality reshaped how I think about aging.

What’s one takeaway you hope readers remember?

That longevity isn’t about avoiding death — it’s about living well. Small, consistent choices, rooted in culture and community, can lead to a longer, more fulfilling life.

How does Japan’s approach to aging differ from Western cultures?

In Japan, aging is seen as a natural and honourable part of life. Elders are respected and often remain active in their communities. There’s less emphasis on anti-aging and more on graceful aging — staying engaged, eating well, and maintaining purpose.

What role does food play in Japanese longevity?

It’s central. The Japanese diet is rich in vegetables, fermented foods, fish, and green tea. Meals are balanced and portion-controlled, and there’s a cultural appreciation for seasonal eating and mindful consumption.

You mention “ikigai” in the book. Can you explain its impact on health?

Ikigai is the Japanese concept of having a reason to wake up in the morning — a sense of purpose. It’s linked to lower stress, better mental health, and longer life. People with ikigai tend to stay socially and physically active well into old age.

What surprised you most about centenarians in Japan?

Their optimism and humour. Many centenarians have a light-hearted view of life. They laugh often, stay curious, and maintain strong social bonds. It’s a reminder that emotional health is just as important as physical health.

How can readers apply these lessons in their own lives?

Start small. Eat more whole foods, move naturally throughout the day, nurture relationships, and find joy in daily routines. You don’t need to live in Japan to live like the Japanese — it’s about adopting the mindset.

EVERYONE IS WELCOME: EMBRACE YOUR JOURNEY

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One of the core tenets of Train Elite is inclusivity. Regardless of your age, background, or current fitness level, everyone is welcomed with open arms. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or taking your first steps towards an active lifestyle, you’ll find a supportive environment where you are accepted for who you are. Train Elite is a place where you can embrace your unique journey and experience personal growth without fear of judgment. Our diverse community celebrates individuality and encourages you to become the best version of yourself.

Fun and enjoyment: workouts that inspire and excite Train Elite offers an array of exhilarating group classes that add enjoyment and variety to your fitness routine. From high-intensity HIIT Bootcamp workouts that push your limits to invigorating Boxing, Strength & Conditioning sessions, and even calming Yoga practices, there’s something for everyone. Alongside fellow members, you’ll celebrate achievements, find inspiration, and create a memorable workout experience filled with laughter and camaraderie. At Train Elite, training is not a chore but a joyful journey.

Join the Train Elite community today

We invite you to come and experience Train Elite first hand. Step inside our facility, meet our passionate team, and take advantage of our complimentary 3-session trial. Discover a fitness community that goes beyond the ordinary, where personal growth, lasting connections, expert guidance, inclusivity, and fun converge to help you achieve your fitness goals.

Frames that define you!

Whiffens Opticians; where expert eye care meets carefully curated designer eyewear

Whiffens Opticians has built its reputation on a simple but essential principle: exceptional eye care paired with eyewear that genuinely reflects the individual. As an independent practice in the heart of Lower Parkstone, they pride themselves on offering a level of attention, expertise and personal service that larger chains often struggle to match.

At the core of their work is comprehensive eye health. Every examination at Whiffens is carried out with precision and care, supported by advanced diagnostic technology such as OCT scanning. This allows their clinicians to detect early signs of conditions like glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration long before symptoms may appear, giving patients both clarity and confidence in their vision.

Yet for many who step through their door, it’s the designer eyewear collections that truly elevate the Whiffens experience. Their curated selection brings together some of the most recognisable and sought-after names in eyewear fashion — from Prada, Versace and Tom Ford to Ray-Ban, Ralph Lauren and Dolce & Gabbana. Each frame is chosen not only for its style but for its craftsmanship, ensuring that customers can enjoy both aesthetic appeal and longlasting comfort.

The team at Whiffens understands that choosing glasses is deeply personal. With expert guidance, they help clients

explore shapes, colours and styles that complement their features and reflect their personality. Whether someone is seeking bold statement frames, understated elegance or a refined everyday look, Whiffens offers both the choice and the insight needed to make the perfect match.

From thorough clinical care to standout designer frames, Whiffens Opticians provides a complete experience — one that blends professional expertise with exceptional style, leaving every customer seeing clearly and looking their best.

James Martin: It would be ‘really weird’ to watch myself on Saturday Morning

The popular TV chef talks to Lauren Taylor about the ITV show, not rehearsing, and meeting famous guests.

James Martin may have been on TV since the mid-Nineties, but that doesn’t mean he wants to see it back.

“I’ve never watched myself in 34 years of doing it. I can’t watch it, I just can’t – it’s really weird,” says the 53-year-old.

The chef made his name on the likes of Ready Steady Cook and The Big Breakfast, before taking over hosting BBC One’s Saturday Kitchen in 2006 – filmed live – and moving to ITV’s James Martin’s Saturday Morning in 2017. “I was always taught, if you’re going to watch yourself, you’ll change. I don’t really want to do that.”

Instead, the feedback tends to come from his mum. “Usually my mum phones me up and says, ‘That shirt looks s*** – you can’t wear that again’. That’s usually the comment I get on Saturday Morning – ‘What the bloody hell are you wearing that shirt for?’ That’ll be the one, after all these years.

Or, “‘What were you doing the night before? Your hair looks a bloody state. You need to get it cut’. It keeps you very grounded,” he adds, with a laugh.

The pre-recorded Saturday Morning, now in its ninth year, sees Martin welcome celebrated chefs and celebrities into his

ABOVE

home and outdoor kitchen. He rustles up all manner of dishes for his guests to try –while other top chefs share some of theirs too – and viewers send in their culinary questions.

“I didn’t think I’d be doing [Saturday Morning telly] for 20 years – put it that way. Leaving the BBC after 10 years was a big decision, giving up that show, but it was the right time for me,” says the chef, from Malton, North Yorkshire.

“Certainly filming at the house has a different vibe to it, a more relaxed vibe – a different chapter.”

To mark the best part of a decade of his current show’s success, Martin’s latest cookbook, James Martin’s Saturday Morning, is a collection of recipes that he’s cooked for viewers.

What those at home might not know is that each dish is whipped up for the very first time by Martin on TV.

“That’s what surprises a lot of people,” he shares, “We don’t do any rehearsal or any practice.” The ingredients are written down and laid out in front of him, and as Martin creates a dish, while someone sits behind the camera writing down the step-by-step recipe.

“It’s not like any other normal cookery shows [in which] you get given a recipe and you follow it – we don’t do any of that. In terms of my stuff, what you see on camera is the first time I’ve cooked it. It’s like an upscale Ready, Steady, Cook, but it’s 30 or 40 years of cooking in the business.”

It certainly adds to to the authentic feel of the show – and leads to more natural interactions with the famous guests too. “I think [not rehearsing] is important in terms

James Martin’s Saturday Morning | Quadrille/PA

“You kind of look at them and go, ‘I can’t believe you’re here, in my house’. And you’re cooking for them.”

chips with brown crab mayonnaise) and comfort food (like the surf and turf burger) alongside dishes for easy entertaining (pork chops with café de Paris butter).

Martin’s days of filming don’t involve eating the usual meals at the usual times though. “I’ve usually got a glass of wine in my hands and a chicken chasseur [first thing]; by quarter past 10 I’m usually on the barbecue with another glass of wine and I’m cooking something savoury. By brunch I’ve usually had a steak and chips, or something classically French,” he laughs. “It’s really odd.”

Martin wants to inspire people to get in the kitchen, regardless of ability, so his recipes are all about accessibility. “Most of the dishes we’ve done over the years have been made out of stuff you can buy off the supermarket shelf. There’s a supermarket sponge that I buy for 60p and you can turn it into a cake that [looks like it’s worth] £80 in 10 minutes with a little bit of imagination, cream and sugar.

“People seem to like that kind of stuff.”

of the conversations that you have. It’s always the best conversations when you go live, or you shoot it as ‘live’. Rather than rehearse, rehearse, rehearse, where it gets watered down.”

Isn’t that a bit nerve-racking? “I don’t ever get nervous, in terms of the food,” Martin says. ” I probably get more nervous for the guests, really.

“Over the years, we’ve had some of the greatest chefs in the world on. When the best chefs in the world come to the UK, they kind of look to our show, which is an honour and a privilege.

“I’ve got nervous a few times. When you’re interviewing the late, great Sir Michael Parkinson – you’ve got to be on your A game.”

Author Jackie Collins sitting in his home kitchen was another “pinch-me moment” for Martin, before her death in 2015.

Some of the world-class chefs who’ve appeared on the show have shared recipes for the new book too; think Nathan Outlaw’s fish stew, Asma Khan’s meatball curry, and Paul Rankin’s pear crumble.

“The chefs are there to showcase their business and their restaurants and their skill. I try and do stuff that’s accessible, that people can do at home. So if I can make it in 10 minutes, then hopefully I’ll inspire people to do [it].”

So the vast majority of the book’s recipes are Martin’s on-screen creations – and there were a lot to choose from.

“I’m doing probably six, seven recipes a show,” he notes, “There’s probably 5,000 recipes over the years I’ve been doing it.”

But you’ll find brunches (breakfast waffles with all the trimmings, or lemon and elderflower pancakes) with midweek meals (fish and

James Martin’s Saturday Morning cookbook by James Martin is published in hardback by Quadrille, priced £25. Photography by Dan Jones. Available now.

ABOVE

James Martin’s sticky toffee pudding with miso caramel and clotted cream | Dan Jones/PA

ABOVE

James Martin | Dan Jones/PA

Dan Jones/PA

INGREDIENTS

2kg shin of beef, cut into large dice

2 shallots, diced

250ml beer

500ml red wine

A few sprigs of thyme

2 bay leaves

500g ready-made puff pastry

1 egg yolk, beaten

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the carrots:

400g whole carrots, peeled, with 1cm green tops left on

100g caster sugar

5 star anise

100g butter

INGREDIENTS

8 slices of unsmoked back bacon

50g butter

500g Cheddar, grated

1tbsp English mustard

1tsp Worcestershire sauce

1tsp Tabasco

3 egg yolks

2tbsps plain flour

50ml beer

50ml milk

4 slices of sourdough

1 jar Bettys (or other goodquality) tomato chutney

Beef pie with star anise carrots

SERVES 6

“This is basically a braised beef stew turned into a pie,” says James Martin. “We get a lot of letters and emails from people complaining that a pie isn’t a pie without a base! But this is such a simple dish.

1. In a very large casserole dish, over a medium-high heat, fry the beef in batches until deeply coloured. Season with salt and pepper, then pop it all back into the pan with the shallots, cover with the beer and wine and add the herbs.

2. Bring to the boil, then cover and simmer for two to three hours, until the beef is very tender. Season with salt and pepper and allow to cool.

3. Preheat the oven to 200C/180ºC fan.

4. Use the beef stew to fill a 20 centimetre ovenproof pie dish. Roll out the pastry to two millimetres thick and slightly larger than the dish. Brush the top edges of the dish with egg wash, then pop the pastry on, crimp and seal the edges and garnish with pastry leaves (cut from the pastry offcuts) and egg-wash these too.

5. Put the dish onto a baking tray to avoid any overspill and bake in the oven for 40 minutes until the pastry is risen and deep golden.

6. Meanwhile, pop all the ingredients for the carrots into a pan, bring to the boil, stirring occasionally, then simmer for 20 minutes until the carrots are tender. Serve with the beef pie.

Welsh rarebit with bacon and chutney

SERVES 4

1. Preheat the oven to 200C/180ºC fan.

2. Place the bacon and butter in a large, non-stick, ovenproof frying pan and roast for ten minutes.

3. Meanwhile, heat a non-stick saucepan over a medium heat and add the cheese, mustard, Worcestershire sauce and Tabasco and stir until melted.

4. Beat in the egg yolks and flour and cook gently for a further two minutes, stirring. Whisk in the beer and milk and cook for five minutes until you have a thick, smooth sauce.

5. Toast the sourdough. Slide it underneath the bacon, top with the chutney, then spoon the cheese sauce all over and bake for five minutes until deep golden and bubbly.

Dan Jones/PA

Sticky toffee pudding with miso caramel sauce & clotted cream SERVES 6

INGREDIENTS

290ml boiling water

200g stoned dates

50g butter, softened, plus extra for greasing

175g Demerara sugar

1tbsp golden syrup

2 eggs, beaten

2tbsps black treacle

200g sifted plain flour

1tsp vanilla bean paste

1tsp bicarbonate of soda

For the miso caramel sauce:

200ml double cream

100g butter

100g dark muscovado sugar

3tbsps black treacle

2tbsps golden syrup

2tbsps white miso paste

To serve: Clotted cream

1. Preheat the oven to 180C/160ºC fan. Grease a 20 centimetre square, five centimetre-deep cake tin and line it with baking parchment.

2. Pour the boiling water over the dates in a bowl and leave to sit for five minutes, then blitz until smooth and pour back into the bowl.

3. In a separate bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until pale, then fold in the syrup, eggs, treacle, flour and vanilla until smooth and combined. Stir the bicarbonate of soda into the blitzed dates, then mix into the pudding batter.

4. Pour into the prepared tin and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until springy to the touch. Leave to cool slightly in the tin, then turn out onto a plate to serve.

5. Meanwhile, to make the toffee sauce, put all the ingredients into a pan and bring gently to the boil, stirring until blended, then take off the heat.

6. To serve, cut squares of the pudding, spoon over the toffee sauce and top each portion with a dollop of clotted cream.

James Martin’s Saturday Morning by James Martin is published by Quadrille, priced £25.00. Photography by Dan Jones. Available now.

Dan Jones/PA

The perfect gift this Christmas

If you’re looking for a Christmas gift that feels thoughtful, personal and beautifully Dorset, a Dorset Cruises E-Certificate is a timeless choice. Ideal for those who appreciate quality experiences and the quiet luxury of time on the water, these vouchers offer the perfect way to enjoy Poole Harbour and the surrounding coastline.

Your recipient can use their E-Certificate for any Dorset Cruises experience, from the popular Afternoon High Tea Cruise aboard the vintage Dorset Queen to relaxed harbour sailings and seasonal special events. It’s an opportunity to slow down, savour the views and enjoy a moment away from the everyday.

Redeeming the voucher is simple. When they’re ready to book, they just call or email the team with their unique voucher code, and Dorset Cruises will take care of the rest (subject to availability). For the best choice of dates, we strongly recommend booking as early as possible to secure your preferred experience.

A Dorset Cruises E-Certificate is thoughtful, elegant, and offers a memorable experience on Dorset’s coast.

EMAIL info@dorsetcruises.co.uk

Celebrate life’s special moments on the water with Dorset Cruises

If you want to make an occasion truly special, the 1938 vintage yacht Dorset Queen is one of Dorset’s most elegant and memorable settings.

Celebrations of Life

Important moments in life deserve a thoughtful setting. If you are honouring a loved one’s passing, scattering ashes at sea, or gathering to remember, Dorset Cruises provides a calm and caring space on Poole Harbour. The upper deck gives you wide views for quiet reflection. You can play your loved one’s favourite music and add flowers to make the tribute personal.

This is a chance to pause, remember, and spend meaningful time with family and friends.

Weddings

Imagine boarding a beautifully decorated 1938 vintage motor yacht, welcomed with a glass of chilled Champagne and the gentle scenery of Poole Harbour. The Dorset Queen is a unique place for your wedding day. You can use her for stylish transport, an afternoon cruise for your guests, an evening reception, or even a ceremony before and after your official signing on land.

The Dorset Queen can host up to 80 guests, so your wedding party can celebrate together and enjoy the harbour’s beautiful views. Every detail, from the flowers to the atmosphere, is made to feel timeless, personal, and truly Dorset.

Muay Thai for everyone Fitness, confidence and community

At Wassmu in Martial Arts in Boscombe, we believe fitness should do more than just burn calories. It should build confidence, sharpen the mind, and create a sense of community. That’s exactly what Muay Thai — the art of eight limbs — has to o er.

Why Muay Thai?

Unlike many fitness routines, Muay Thai combines strength, cardio, flexibility, and mental focus into one complete package. Whether you’re punching, kicking, kneeing, or using elbows, every movement engages your whole body. The result? Improved fitness, better coordination, and stress relief that leaves you feeling lighter and more positive after every class.

Benefits for Adults

• Stay Healthy & Energised: Muay Thai burns fat, builds lean muscle, and improves heart health.

• Stress Relief: Hitting pads is one of the best ways to let go of workday stress.

• Mental Focus: Training sharpens concentration and boosts discipline, which carries into everyday life.

• Confidence & Resilience: Learning real martial arts skills empowers you both physically and mentally.

Benefits for Kids & Teens

Our kids and juniors’ classes are designed to give young people the tools to thrive:

• Bullying Prevention: Martial arts builds self-confidence and teaches discipline, helping kids stand tall without resorting to violence.

• Respect & Focus: Our classes teach discipline, respect, and self-control — skills that help in school and at home.

• Positive Outlet: Instead of being stuck on screens, kids get to burn energy in a safe, structured, and encouraging environment.

• Friendship & Community: They train alongside other young people, making new friends and learning teamwork.

A Welcoming Space for All Levels

Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced fighter looking to sharpen your

skills, our classes are designed to meet you where you are. The environment is friendly, inclusive, and supportive — everyone trains together, and everyone improves together.

What Our Members Say

“I joined to get fitter, but what I found was so much more. The confidence I’ve gained and the friendships I’ve made are priceless.”

– Google Review

“My son used to be shy at school, but after training here he’s more confident, disciplined, and happier than ever.”

– Google Review

New Starter O er

We want you to experience the benefits for yourself. That’s why we’re o ering:

• £30 for 30 Days of Unlimited Classes

This gives you the chance to try di erent sessions, meet the coaches, and discover what works best for you.

Ready to Start?

Scan the QR Code to see more reviews, check our timetable, and book your first class online.

CONTACT

01202 729 270 | 07766 090116

info@fitterthanfit.co.uk WEBSITE

www.fitterthanfit.co.uk

Wassmu in Mixed Martial Arts Academy, 686 Christchurch Rd, Bournemouth, BH7 6BT

Your Skin Our Expertise

At Southface Dermatology Clinic, we combine clinical expertise with a personalised approach to deliver skin solutions that are as unique as you are. Whether you’re managing a medical condition or enhancing your natural beauty, we’re here to help every step of the way without a GP referral.

Our team of Dermatologists and Nurses are experts in their fields of practice and many also work in the local NHS Hospitals.

Mole Removal & Mapping

Advanced skin surgery and reconstruction

Aesthetic treatments

Wart treatments

Anti-Ageing treatments

Acne treatments

Laser treatments

Medical Dermatology

Expert Menopause Clinic

Pelvic Physiotherapy

Vulval Dermatology

Cyst removal Nutritionist

Womens Healthcare

Dorset’s leading experts for outstanding dermatology Dr Helen Robertshaw

Nurse Sharan Gallagher Aesthetics

Amanda Duncan Nutritionist

Louise Kazemi Pelvic Physiotherapist

A centre of excellence: Southface Dermatology

Holistic, expert care for skin, hair and women’s health

Southface Dermatology has built a reputation as a leading centre for advanced skin cancer care, medical and cosmetic dermatology, alongside women’s health. In this Q&A, Dr Helen Robertshaw shares how the clinic’s specialist expertise, cuttingedge technology and holistic approach are helping patients achieve exceptional skin health and long-term wellbeing.

Southface is recognised as a centre of excellence in skin cancer treatment and surveillance. What sets your clinic apart from other private skin clinics?

Our team is composed of highly specialised skin cancer experts with extensive experience leading local services and advising on best practice. Patients can be confident they are receiving the most accurate, up-to-date diagnosis and management available. Our skin surgeons are exceptionally trained in both cancer treatment and restorative techniques, and we offer non-surgical options not routinely available on the NHS, providing excellent outcomes with minimal or no scarring. We also use advanced digital technology for mole assessment, operated by an experienced skin cancer specialist nurse, enabling us to detect early changes before they become cancerous.

You offer medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology as well as women’s health services under one roof. How does this integrated model improve patient outcomes?

Dermatologists understand the value of a holistic approach. We manage both simple and complex skin concerns while integrating lasers, aesthetic treatments and regenerative medicine. Science, clinical skill and a whole-person philosophy work together seamlessly to deliver the best possible results.

Tell me more about your Women’s Health Services.

Hormones have a profound impact on skin, hair and overall wellbeing. We are fortunate to have Dr Sarah Aulds, an accredited menopause specialist, and Dr Alice Plant, a consultant in vulval dermatology who also runs an NHS service. We additionally provide specialist pelvic physiotherapy for men and women with bowel, bladder and pelvic-floor concerns.

PICTURED ABOVE

What have been your highlights this year?

As an expert acne clinic, we offer the full range of established treatments along with groundbreaking options unavailable on the NHS. We were proud to be awarded AviClear Provider of the Year for the South of England. AviClear is a non-drug treatment that delivers long-term acne clearance.

What are your plans for 2026?

We aim to share more of our “best kept secrets,” expanding access to the latest regenerative treatments — including exosomes, polynucleotides, skin-lifting technologies and advanced laser therapies— for natural, non-surgical rejuvenation.

01202 702827

Dr. Helen Robertshaw FRCP

What’s on IN DECEMBER

With a vibrant mix of countryside, beaches and attractions, there is always plenty to do in Dorset & Hampshire. Here is a selection of events happening across the counties over the coming weeks.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT

10 DECEMBER

Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s dedicated disability charity, is delighted to invite the community to its annual Christmas Concert, taking place on Wednesday, December 10 at St. Peter’s Church, right in the heart of Bournemouth.

Guests will be treated to a lineup of seasonal entertainment, including one of the South’s premier choirs, Sound of Soul, and acclaimed classical vocalist Aaron James. As well as performances from Razzamataz Bournemouth, a vibrant youth theatre school for ages 4–18 and Canford Heath Junior School Choir.

Adults: £10; Children (11–16): £5; Children under 10: Free; Family ticket: £28.

All proceeds go directly to Diverse Abilities to support their vital work in the community.

ST. PETER’S CHURCH www.diverseabilities.org.uk/christmas-concert

RNLI COLLEGE CHRISTMAS MARKET

07 DECEMBER

Visitors can get into the festive spirit at the RNLI Christmas Market, where the whole family can enjoy a joyful seasonal day out. See Father Christmas make his grand arrival by lifeboat before wandering among stalls filled with local produce and handmade crafts—the perfect place to find ideal Christmas presents.

Guests can sample festive food, enjoy live music and let little ones take part in fun workshops, all under one roof at the RNLI College on West Quay Road in Poole.

The event takes place on Sunday 7 December 2025, from 10am to 4pm, with free admission and free parking, making it the perfect opportunity to celebrate the season while supporting a great cause.

RNLI www.RNLI.org

THE PANTOMIME ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN

13 DECEMBER – 4 JANUARY

In a flash and with a twinkle of fairy dust, Mayflower Theatre’s iconic stage magically transforms into Neverland for our most breath-taking, thrilling seasonal spectacular yet. With amazing special effects, stunning sets, beautiful costumes and barrel-loads of laughter, The Pantomime Adventures of Peter Pan will take your whole family on a swashbuckling trip to Neverland like never before!

MAYFLOWER THEATRE www.mayflower.org.uk

BREAKFAST WITH FATHER CHRISTMAS

06 – 24 DECEMBER (VARYING DATES)

Kick off the festive season with a joyful morning at Hillier Garden Centres. Enjoy a hearty breakfast while taking part in fun, Christmas-themed activities and meet Father Christmas himself. Children can get creative with seasonal crafts, share their wishes and receive a special gift to take home, while adults can relax and enjoy a warming breakfast in a festive atmosphere. A perfect way for the whole family to kick off the holiday season. Price: Children £25 & Adults £15, booking required

HILLIER GARDEN CENTRE www.hillier.co.uk

CHRISTMAS TREE WONDERLAND

NOW - 04 JANUARY

Spectacular Christmas tree trail, enchanting illuminations and seasonal family fun! Experience the magical spectacle of hundreds of glittering trees from around the world. See them shimmer against the night skies along our pine-scented walkways. Explore the Alpine Market and skate under the stars in our enchanting Victorian gardens. Enjoy live music, entertainment and illuminations around the resort.

This Christmas, enter a world filled with light as trees guide you through an enchanted walkway encountering dazzling features and surprises along the way.

Explore a glimmering world of memorable seasonal fun for the whole family.

BOURNEMOUTH

www.christmastreewonderland.co.uk

SKATE

NOW - 04 JANUARY

SKATE Bournemouth is back, the rink is held within the canopies of Bournemouth’s Lower Gardens, which will be magically brought to life for the Christmas season.

Making a welcome return for 2025 is Moguls Alpine Bar with a VIP chalet and indoor winter wonderland. Warm up after skating with a festive mulled wine or luxury hot chocolate.

Weekends, evenings and school holidays book up quickly, make sure to get your booking in ASAP to avoid any disappointment.

LOWER GARDENS

www.iceskatebournemouth.co.uk

ILLUMINATE WINTER LIGHTS

NOW - 31 DECEMBER

ABBOTSBURY SUBTROPICAL GARDENS www.abbotsburygardens.co.uk

MAGICAL CHRISTMAS BALL

NOW - 04 JANUARY

KINGSTON LACY www.nationaltrust.org.uk

CHRISTMAS QUEST

NOW - 05 JANUARY

MOORS VALLEY

COUNTRY PARK www.moors-valley.co.uk

SOUND OF

THE SEA

NOW - 26 JANUARY

POOLE MUSEUM

www.poolemuseum.org.uk

CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL

05 - 23 DECEMBER

HIGHCLIFFE CASTLE www.highcliffecastle.co.uk

Photo credit Stuart Martin

It is time to TAKE A BREAK

Pop the kettle on, put your feet up and take 10 minutes to engage your brain and solve these simple puzzles.

ACROSS CRYPTIC CLUES

6. Apparition (7)

7. Arbour (5)

9. Suitable (3)

10. Impromptu (9)

12. Essay (11)

15. Saucy (11)

17. Reeled (9)

19. Opponent (3)

21. Guide (5)

22. Attack (7)

CRYPTIC CLUES

1. Form (5)

2. Also (3)

3. Cajole (4)

4. Efficient (9)

5. Censure (7)

8. Motive (6)

11. Alien (9)

13. Golf-club (6)

14. Mimic (7)

16. Earth (5)

18. Comfort (4)

20. Insane (3)

PORTMAN STONE

A new year brings new opportunities to refresh your kitchen, bathroom, or outdoor living space. Enjoy exclusive savings across our curated selection of Sergio Quartz, premium engineered stone.

At Portman Stone, every project is managed with care: from the initial enquiry to precision fabrication and expert ﬁtting, our team ensures a seamless experience and exceptional ﬁnish.

Visit our showroom or explore our collection online to begin your design journey into 2026.

SHOWROOM: 1 Airﬁeld Way, Christchurch BH23 3PE