Welcome
Mar inv es in a feeling of rejuvenation as we see the r signs of ring appear, w h the hope that the warmer weather will ve us all a l tle boo to get outside and make the mo of the longer days ahead.
Let’s be honest though, our Great British weather doesn’t always care what season we are in. So why not bring a little brightness into your home as we take inspiration from the season ahead to style up our bedding in honour of National Bed Month! Alternatively you could put a little spring in your step and treat yourself to a city break across Europe – we have discovered where you can bask in beautiful flowers, fiestas and folkloric celebration to enjoy the best that Spring has to o er. If relaxing is your main focus then we have gathered together five budge spa breaks to help you indulge in a well-deserved rest! Plus, Sue Quinn shares with us how to make the most of our leftovers with some inspired recipes to elevate your mealtimes and cut down on waste.
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.
FOLLOW US
Facebook @housemagdorset
Twitter @House_Mag
Instagram @housemagazine_dorset
SUBSCRIBE
www.house-mag.co.uk
gary@house-mag.co.uk | 01202 287165 ext #1
ross@house-mag.co.uk | 01202 287165 ext #1
vi @house-mag.co.uk | 01202 287165 ext #2
gemma@house-mag.co.uk | 01202 287165 ext #1
Kindergarten and Reception (Age 3-4) Discovery Sessions
Weds 28th Feb, 24th April 9.30am-11.30am
Kindergarten, Pre-Prep and Junior School (Age 3-11) Open Morning
Thurs 14th March, 9.30am-12pm.
Book your place www.talbotheath.org/openday
The TH difference, take a look at what is included in our fees, £65 all day 8-3.30pm. Includes a hot healthy lunch cooked on site and all snacks. Care with ‘tea’ available until 5.30pm at a small extra cost. Flexible hours. Morning / afternoon sessions, choose your own package.
• Through school specialising in nurturing girls from Kindergarten to 6th Form
• Unique Early Years Curriculum
• Qualified EYFS trained teachers
• Forest School in our own beautiful woodland
• Acres of outdoor space and sports facilities
• Indoor swimming pool (timetabled lessons in Reception)
• STEAM sessions (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Maths)
• Access to our state of the art design studio
• Access to individual school iPads
• Emphasis on reading, library sessions and buddy reading
• One to one personalised targets and next steps
• Interactive phonics programme from age 3, giving a confident start in Reception
• Daily communication with our parents as well as appointments and open sessions
• Weekly French and Music sessions
• Topic linked trips, transport in our own minibuses
18
26
32
82
86
CONTENTS
LIFESTYLE
22 PARK SCHOOL
Exceptional educational opportunities in central Bournemouth
80 DEAN PARK DAY NURSERY
‘Everything starts with the child’
FOOD & DRINK
48 REVIEW
Key West Bar & Grill
44
TRAVEL
62 NOT JUST TRAVEL
Transform you travel dreams into reality
HOME IMPROVEMENT
98 BROADVIEW SHADING SOLUTIONS
Trust Broadview to create the wow factor in your home
MOTORING
104 NEWS
By Mark Slack
READ ALL ABOUT IT
The latest news stories in your area.
B4B LAUNCHES NEW MEDIA STUDIO
Poole-based digital agency b4b Marketing has announced that its brand new media studio is now available to hire to media professionals across the South.
The expansive infinity cove studio and facilities on the Albany Business Park in Poole, Dorset have been created primarily for b4b’s in-house media team who provide photography, video and animation services, and now the facilities can also be hired by any creatives looking to shoot professional photography and video in a dedicated space.
“Adding a fully-equipped media studio to our facilities was the next natural step in our media journey” said Anthony Tilley, b4b Managing Director.
“Our media team regularly carry out portrait and product photoshoots for our clients to capture imagery for their websites
B4B MARKETING www.b4b.co.uk
and social channels, as well as producing engaging corporate videos for all marketing collateral, so having a proper studio to work from and invite clients to - giving them a fun, professional experience is an absolute game changer.”
The studio is available to hire, both half day and full day, from just £200. Media kit such as continuous daylight and flash equipment, as well as a Green Screen backdrop is also available to rent, along with gaffer services upon request.
As part of the facilities, there is also a meeting room, kitchen and changing area. Parking is also available on site and ultrafast, uncontended fibre broadband with RJ45 Ethernet ports is available within the studio.
A dedicated website for the studio has also just been launched with further details and booking info: https://mediastudio10.co.uk/
LIGHTHOUSE WINS DOUBLE AT DORSET TOURISM AWARDS
Lighthouse is celebrating a double win at this year’s Dorset Tourism Awards, retaining its Gold status as Business Events Venue of the Year and adding the Bronze Award for Large Visitor Attraction of the Year.
Lucy Funnell, Corporate Development Executive at Lighthouse, says: “We work very hard to make sure everyone who comes to Lighthouse has a great experience, whether they come to see a show, attend a conference, take part in a course, or present a trade fair.”
As well as its exciting programme of high quality and diverse arts and entertainment from national, international, and regional artists, over the last year Lighthouse has been proud to host meetings, conferences, or events for a range of clients including RNLI, Condor Ferries, Diverse Abilities, Open University, BCP Council, Arts University Bournemouth, and the Women’s Institute.
LIGHTHOUSE, POOLE
www.lighthousepoole.co.uk
RECRUITMENT DAY SET FOR BOURNEMOUTH PIER TO ATTRACT SEASONAL STAFF
Bournemouth Pier has set Saturday 16th March and Saturday 20th April as its recruitment day events in a bid to attract people interested in an array of employment opportunities on Bournemouth Pier. Each event will take place from 10.30am – 12.30pm.
Marketing Manager Dave Stroud advised, “On Bournemouth Pier we are home to the popular Key West Bar & Restaurant, the brilliant indoor activity adventure climbing attraction RockReef, The RockReef café where adventurers can hang out and chill and of course, the World’s first pier to shore zip wire. We also have a number of retail outlets on Pier Approach.
“We would urge anyone interested in any of the opportunities available to pop along to one of our Recruitment Days and visit the recruitment area in Key West Bar & Restaurant. They will be able to have a look around and have an informal chat. Bournemouth Pier is great place to work. The roles offer flexible working hours, are incredibly varied and we’ve got a great team here to work with. What better location too to be working at!
“If anyone is interested in a role but unable to attend either of the Recruitment Events I would suggest that they e-mail me with their C.V. recruitment@thebournemouthpier.com“
BOURNEMOUTH PIER www.thebournemouthpier.com
SIGNING OF THE ARMED FORCES COVENANT BY AMMTEK LTD 7 TH FEBRUARY 2024
Ammtek Ltd were delighted to welcome guests from across Bournemouth Poole and Christchurch to their offices based in Telephone House in Bournemouth to witness the signing of the Armed Forces Covenant. It was signed on behalf of Ammtek by Andrew Martyn, Director of Ammtek Ltd, in front of special guests and fellow businesses based there as well. The Covenant was countersigned by Commander Steve Henaghen, Chief of Staff to the Naval Regional Commander Wales and Western England.
Ammtek have long understood the importance of defence and the jobs undertaken by the incredible armed forces and Andrew Martyn said “I am very proud
to sign the Covenant on behalf of Ammtek Ltd, supporting our Armed Forces in their working and personal lives including their families as well as Reservists, Cadet Force Adult Volunteers and Armed Forces charities as well.”
The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise that together we acknowledge and understand that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, and their families, should be treated with fairness and respect in the communities, economy and society they serve with their lives.
After the signing ceremony the Ammtek team were able to showcase some of the learning their team have been working on which includes scientific measurement equipment, motor controllers and Ultrasonic Non Destructive Test equipment followed by a tour of the newly refurbished offices including a green room and podcast room run by YourSpace. For further information please contact Ammtek on Hello@ammtek.co.uk AMMTEK
STEWARTS GARDEN CENTRES LAUNCH LEWIS-MANNING HOSPICE CARE AS CHARITY OF THE YEAR!
Stewarts Garden Centres have launched Lewis-Manning Hospice Care as their charity of the year for their Christchurch and Broomhill branches.
Hospice staff visited the Christchurch branch and enjoyed a tour of the thriving and bustling garden centre.
MD Martin Stewart advised, “Our decision to make Lewis-Manning our charity of the year in Dorset was an easy decision to make because of the affinity and admiration that we have for the amazing work that they provide to the patients and families that they support.
“We’re looking forward to getting our whole team on board and engaged with fundraising for the charity in as many ways as we can. We feel lots of synergy with the hospice, and with sunflowers at the heart of their brand we have plans to launch a sunflower initiative in our Centres to celebrate them and will become a part of their ‘Grow Some Sunshine’ campaign. We hope it will inspire and motivate our customers to come on board too!
“Every customer at our till points will have the option to donate 10p to the hospice with their purchase”.
“We will be launching our exciting partnership with Lewis-Manning Hospice Care in our quarterly magazine which goes out to 40,000 customers, hopefully encouraging volunteers to come on board, promote events and inform people, who might need support, about the extraordinary services that are available.”
Corporate fundraiser Nicki Cluley said, “We are incredibly excited to be working in partnership with Stewarts, They are very well established and highly regarded in the local community. There is great synergy between Stewarts the charity and the patients and families we support with lifelimiting illnesses across East Dorset and Purbeck. We’ve agreed on some fantastic ideas on how we’re going to work together throughout our time as their nominated charity, we are extremely grateful for the opportunity.”
TRETHOWANS LAUNCH CHARITY TRUSTEE NETWORK
Trethowans Solicitors are launching a Charity Trustee Network on the South Coast at an event in Poole on 13th March 2024 and then in Southampton on 30th April.
Charities Partner Kirsteen Hook said, “The Trethowans Charity Trustee Network aims to facilitate Trustees from along the South Coast to come together, connect, share experiences, recommendations, best practices and to engage in topical discussions about the sector’s opportunities and challenges.”
“We are delighted to be launching in Poole and Southampton as we have seen firsthand the benefit of Trustees engaging with other charity Trustees at events and training sessions that the business has hosted in the past and decided that it would be an extremely beneficial forum and likely to be a popular, well attended network.”
“These will be relaxed and informal free networking events with some drinks and nibbles, open to any charity Trustees from across the region.”
The inaugural networking event will take place from 4.30pm to 6.00pm on the 13 March 2024, at Trethowans, Merchants House, Vanguard Rd, Poole BH15 1PH.
For more information, or to book your free place, please email events@trethowans.com.
www.trethowans.com/insights/charitytrustee-network
TRETHOWANS
www.trethowans.com
SPENCERS EXPANDS ITS NETWORK WITH NEW OFFICE IN HIGHCLIFFE
Leading property specialists, SPENCERS, hosted a launch party to celebrate the opening of their dynamic new Highcliffe Sales and Lettings Office.
Friends of Spencers gathered to raise a glass to the new Highcliffe Office, which expands the established Spencers network of offices in Burley, Brockenhurst, Lymington, Ringwood and the London Office.
Founder and Managing Director, Rob Batten, said: “Over the past year, our Coastal department as gone from strength to strength, even in a trickier market. Now was definitely the right time to capitalise on our successes and grow the company with a new Sales and Lettings office in Highcliffe - we are delighted with our new home!”
Spencers Highcliffe: 368-370 Lymington Road, Highcliffe on Sea, Christchurch, BH23 5EZ. Tel: 01425 205 000
SPENCERS www.spencersproperty.co.uk
SHOWSTOPPER! THE IMPROVISED MUSICAL
The incredible ‘Showstopper! The Improvised Musical’ and ‘Showstoppers’ Kids Show’ are coming back to MAST Mayflower Studios this Spring!
Spontaneous musical comedy at its finest, this is the first ever long-form improv show to have a full West End run and to be nominated and win an Olivier Award! Completely improvised and genuinely entirely different every night, this is a must-see show!
For those who haven’t yet experienced the live phenomenon that is ‘Showstopper! The Improvised Musical’, the show is a fully realised musical created on the spot from audience suggestions. The cast transform suggestions for settings, genres, musical styles and even the name of the show into ingenious storylines with hilarious characters.
Tickets for Showstopper! The Improvised Musical & The Showstopper Kid’s Show (16 March 2024) are available on www. mayflower.org.uk or by contact our box office on 02380 711811.
MAST MAYFLOWER STUDIOS www.mayflower.org.uk
WESTBOURNE £695,000
A superbly presented four bedroom detached house which occupies an enviable and quiet position backing directly on to the Bournemouth gardens which run from Coy Pond all the way to the town centre and beach.
Detached house | Four double bedrooms | Two reception rooms & a conservatory | Two bathrooms | Kitchen with utility room | South facing rear garden | Integral garage and two off road parking spaces
WEST CLIFF £325,000
An incredibly bright and spacious two bedroom second fl oor apartment which is situated in an enviable position close to the local amenities of both Westbourne & Bournemouth whilst also being near to the beach.
Purpose built | Second floor | Two double bedrooms | Two bathrooms | Fitted kitchen | Large lounge diner | Long enclosed balcony | Garage | Close to the beach
BRANKSOME PARK £385,000
This well presented two bedroom ground fl oor garden apartment is situated in a superb position within a gated character conversion in Branksome Park. The beach is just a few hundred meters away.
Ground floor | Two double bedrooms | Lounge diner | Modern kitchen | Contemporary bathroom | Conservatory | Private garden | Allocated parking behind gates
BRANKSOME PARK £275,000
A very well presented, bright and spacious two bedroom apartment set within a popular well managed development on the tree lined Lindsay road in Branksome Park which is a short walk to Westbourne whilst also being near to good transport links and the beach.
Purpose built | Two double bedrooms | Two modern bathrooms | Contemporary kitchen | Lounge diner | Sunny balcony | Garage
IN T R O DUCIN G WINNER FOR BOURNEMOUTH (BH2-4)
Winkworth Westbourne have just won the British Property Lettings Award for Bournemouth (BH2-4), for the third successive year.
Their team performed outstandingly throughout the extensive judging period, which focused on customer service levels.
Winkworth Westbourne have now been shortlisted for a number of national awards which will be announced shortly.
The British Property Awards provide agents throughout the UK with an invaluable opportunity to compare the service that they provide against the service provided by their local, regional and national competition.
Agents who go that extra mile and provide outstanding levels of customer service are rewarded with our accolade, which acts as a beacon to highlight these attributes to their local marketplace.
Winkworth Westbourne
77 Poole Road, Westbourne, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH4 9BB 01202 767313
www.winkworth.co.uk/estate-agents/westbourne
most inclusive estate agency awards providers as they do not charge to enter This has enabled their award to be structured in a manner that ensures maximum participation, on average judging over 90% of agents that meet their minimum criteria on a local level.
The team personally mystery shops every estate agent against a set of 25 criteria to obtain a balanced overview of their customer service levels. The judging criteria is periods to ensure that agents have been rigorously and fairly judged.
Robert McLean from The British Property Awards said “Our awards have been specifically designed to be attainable to all agents, removing common barriers to entry, such as cost, to ensure that we have the most inclusive awards. Our awards have also been designed to remove any opportunity for bias or manipulation. If an agent has been attributed with one of our awards, it is simply down to the fantastic customer service levels that they have demonstrated across a prolonged period of time. Winning agents should be proud that their customer service levels provide a benchmark for their local, regional and national competition”.
WHITECLIFF | £825,000
NEW INSTRUCTION. A spacious, extended 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 1930’ Charachter semi detached home, with a south facing garden. O ering a wonderful kitchen/ dining/family room, separate lounge, cinema room, playroom, utility room, cloakroom and o road parking to the front for 2 cars and to the rear or boat or larger vehicle. SOLE AGENT!
BRANKSOME PARK | £1,100,000
NEW INSTRUCTION! A six year old immaculate penthouse with 3 large balconies/terraces and private lift access o ering 3 double bedrooms with contemporary 4 piece en suite shower/bathroom and main 4 piece shower/bathroom. Stunning lounge and a fully tted kitchen/dining/day room both with vaulted ceiling, Gas red under oor heating, air conditioning and fully double glazed.
GUEST AVENUE | £375,000
NEW INSTRUCTION! A 2 double bedroom detached home, built to a very high speci cation throughout with solid wooden kitchen, having integrated appliances, sitting room with understairs storage cupboard, cloakroom, Fabulous 4 piece main bathroom with feature jacuzzi style bath, low maintenance rear garden and block paved drive with parking for 2 cars in tandem. SOLE AGENTS!
UPTON | £500,000
NEW INSTRUCTION! An immaculate detached home o ering a generous entrance hall with cloakroom and utility room, kitchen/dining room, sitting room and snug. Complimented by a master bedroom with en suite shower room, family bathroom, and 2 further double bedrooms, westerly facing garden and parking at the front for 3 vehicles. SOLE AGENT!
WHITECLIFF | £2,495,000
NEW INSTRUCTION! An brand-new detached home set on the edge of Whitecli with views over Poole Harbour and Parkstone Bay Marina. This ultra-modern property is set over 4 oors with a passenger lift. The versatile 5/6 bedroom, 4 bathroom accommodation includes open plan living spaces, a fabulous ‘sky lounge,’ a study and a media room, 3 balconies and a rear garden.
UPTON | £520,000
NEW INSTRUCTION. A split level 4 bedroom home o ering spacious lounge/dining/ family room, separate lounge, utility room, bathroom and separate shower room, garage and gardens. Set out over 4 oors and o ering a very practical layout. The outside has a good size rear garden, set over 2 layers and enclosed by timber fencing. Vendor Suited. SOLE AGENTS!
CREEKMOOR | £349,950
NEW INSTRUCTION! an absolutely immaculate and beautifully presented 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom semi detached home, with 2 o road parking spaces and a westerly facing garden. Further o ers a re tted kitchen/dining room with integrated appliances, cloakroom, beautiful conservatory with tiled ooring and doors to the garden. SOLE AGENT!
RODNEY CLOSE | £365,000
NEW INSTRUCTION! A 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom chalet bungalow, set on an elevated plot with garage and over 100’ rear tiered garden. Further o ering 2 reception rooms, modern kitchen and utility room Updating incudes new solar panels, new UPVC double glazed windows and doors, new so ts, facias, and modern bathrooms. SOLE AGENTS!
PARKSTONE | £475,000
NEW INSTRUCTION. A brand new house, set on a quiet cul de sac location and nished to a high speci cation laid out over 3 oor. O ering a kitchen with integrated appliances, open plan lounge/dining room, cloakroom, 3 rst oor double bedrooms and bathroom and a wonderful master bedroom with vaulted ceiling and en suite shower room on the second oor.
PARKSTONE | £425,000
NEW INSTRUCTION! A beautiful turn of the century cottage that has been sympathetically restored into a delightful 4 bedroom detached home with 2 reception rooms, conservatory, modern kitchen, ground oor bathroom, rst oor wc, loft storage, southerly facing garden and parking. The property also has planning consent for a double storey extension (plans available) SOLE AGENT!
HAMWORTHY | £195,000
NEW INSTRUCTION! A well presented and spacious 2 double bedroom top (2nd oor) apartment o ering an open plan double aspect lounge/diner and separate kitchen with integrated appliances, bathroom with electric shower over the bath and a garage in a block to the rear of the property. Pets can be permitted. SOLE AGENT!
WHITECIFF | £700,000
NEW INSTRUCTION An absolutely immaculate, 3 double bedroom chalet bungalow with 2 luxury bathrooms (one ensuite) situated close to Poole Park and Whitecli Harbourside Park. Further bene ting from a superb kitchen/ breakfast room with island unit, cosy lounge/ dining room with patio doors to deck. Good size garden with raised deck area and large summer house/store. Sole Agents!
Elevate your living space: Exploring the luxury of Custom Made fitted furniture
For over 20 years, Custom Made Furniture has been one of the area’s leading designers and manufacturers of luxury fitted furniture.
They create high-quality fitted furniture and complimentary free standing units for anywhere in your home; bedrooms, walk-in dressing rooms, vanity areas, bathrooms, home offices, living spaces, kitchens, utilities, under-stair storage, the list is endless!
Your bedroom isn’t just for sleeping. It is the sanctuary you retire to after a long day, offering a space to recover, relax, and escape away from the stress of everyday life.
At Custom Made they design bespoke fitted furniture that lets you make your bedroom truly yours. Gone are the mass-
“We can create different designs to suit any budget.”
manufactured wardrobes, bedside tables, and storage boxes of old – their handcrafted pieces offer an unrivalled build quality, with exquisite designs that make the most of your available space.
No matter the size or style of your home, Custom Made’s master craftsmen will work with you to bring your perfect bedroom to life, whether you prefer contemporary or classic, sleek or rustic, or anything in between.
Living Space Design
Your living room is where you socialise, play, and unwind; a place you can be yourself. Custom-made furniture units will enhance your living space, transforming it into a cosy and functional area, that perfectly aligns with your interior design preferences, whilst providing ample storage options.
Storage has a reputation for being clunky and unsightly, but it doesn’t have to be. TV units, DVD storage solutions, shelving units, and corner units can all be designed to fit into your living room.
Designed to complement existing decor, Custom Made furniture comes in virtually limitless styles and finishes, and is carefully fitted to make the best use of the space available. Modern or traditional, bold or understated - their traditional craftsmen will create fitted or free-standing pieces to suit any aesthetic. They will work with you to design pieces that reflect your personality and style, ensuring every aspect is in line with your expectations.
CUSTOM MADE | INTERIORS
Bespoke Storage Solutions
Whether you’re looking to organise your belongings or display a valued collection, under-stair storage offers the perfect solution. It makes the most of an underutilised space, whilst allowing you to hide away belongings to create a more harmonious home!
Sturdily built and elegantly designed, they are made-to-measure therefore fit neatly under your stairs and designed to blend seamlessly into your decor. Both practical and chic, they work cohesively with your other furniture for a unified appearance.
CONTACT
01202 737 555
custom-made-furniture.com
SHOWROOM
Chalwyn Estate, Old Wareham Road, Poole, Dorset, BH12 4PE
Book a FREE Consultation
Custom Made take pride and care in every project they do. Every item of furniture they create is handcrafted at their workshop in Poole by their Master Craftsmen using only the finest materials and techniques. To book your free design consultation with the team, call today on 01202 737555.
Visit their showroom at Chalwyn Estate, Old Wareham Road, Poole, Dorset, BH12 4PE
www.custom-made-furniture.com
Visit Superior Fires to see the Hinton Cast Iron Electric Stove and many more products!
hinton features
• Real Cast Iron
• Deluxe Real Logs
• Realistic flame-effect
• 1.5kW heater
• Flame-only option
• Backlighting option
• Easy installation
• Authentic look
Whether you’re looking for contemporary or traditional, electric or gas, we have a variety of fires on live display in our multi-room showroom. Visit our showroom in Christchurch where our knowledgeable staff will be glad to assist in helping you choose the perfect fire for any room.
hinton cast iron electric stove scan to see moreExceptional educational opportunities in central Bournemouth
Park School is a co-educational, independent day school, highly respected in the Bournemouth area for providing outstanding education for boys and girls from 3 months up to the age of eleven.
Park School’s reputation for excellence is evidenced in the school’s latest ISI Inspection report, where inspectors commented that, ‘The quality of the pupils’ academic and other achievements is excellent’ and ‘Pupils make strong overall progress. Their attainment by the end of Year 6 is excellent.’ Many of our children
pass the test to one of our local Grammar Schools or gain scholarships to local Independent Secondary Schools.
At Park School we aim to develop the whole child. In addition to the full range of academic subjects prescribed by the National Curriculum, we operate a varied learning programme which includes a wide range of extracurricular activities. Teaching is dynamic and interesting, often bringing together elements of different subjects within a theme, encouraging children to develop a love of learning and a thirst for
T.
43 Queens
www.parkschool.co.uk
knowledge. The inclusion of music, art, drama and sport in this thematic approach offers a variety of learning experiences which deepen children’s understanding, whilst fostering their own interests and skills. What we care about most is developing wellrounded and complete young people; your child will move on from us with confidence, ready for life’s challenges.
Our popular Nursery takes babies from the age of three months until most join the main school at the age of four. There are two classes in each year group from Reception through to Year 6 with an average of twenty children in each class.
Our school enjoys a reputation for excellence but above all, it is a happy school, where children feel safe, valued and supported by strong relationships with their teachers and their friends. Our nurturing environment supports children to try their hardest in all that they do, inspiring learning through innovation and exciting teaching.
Why not visit us to see the magic happen, and what we can offer your child? Register for our Open Morning on Thursday 21st March from 9.30am by visiting www.parkschool.co.uk/openmorning
A seamless fusion: Bringing light, warmth, and functionality to Interior Design
In the world of interior design, achieving the delicate balance between modernity and homely warmth is an art form. At Studio 30 Interiors, we recently had the pleasure of realising this vision in a breathtaking kitchen and interior project that seamlessly marries contemporary aesthetics with cosy charm.
Our journey began with a client’s simple yet profound request: to craft a space that exudes brightness and modernity while embracing the comforting allure of home. Armed with a clear directive and a penchant for detail, we embarked on a collaborative process that would redefine their living space.
From the outset, it was evident that birch wood would play a pivotal role in the design scheme. Drawing inspiration from the client’s vision of a panelled wall extending from the entrance, we set out to create a fluid transition from the foyer to the expansive kitchen, dining, and living areas beyond.
Under the astute guidance of Matthew, our Managing Director, strategic interventions were made to infuse the space with a captivating “wow” factor. By opening up a section of the internal wall, we crafted an inviting entrance that beckons guests to explore further, o ering glimpses of the lush garden beyond.
Central to the design was the incorporation of wood cladding—a nod to the client’s a inity for natural elements. This feature not only added warmth but also concealed discreet doors leading to essential spaces like bathrooms, bedrooms, and the home study, ensuring a harmonious blend of form and function.
A focal point of the interior, the kitchen was meticulously curated to reflect both sophistication and practicality. Our flagship Pronorm Y-LINE kitchen, adorned with Arctic white anti-fingerprint lacquered doors, seamlessly complemented the pristine walls, while subtle wood accents added depth and character.
Attention to detail was paramount, with meticulous touches such as the 10mm shadow gap meticulously replicated in both the plastered walls and kitchen furniture, fostering a sense of continuity and refinement throughout the space.
To enhance the ambiance further, bespoke lighting solutions were integrated, underscoring the importance of illumination in elevating the overall atmosphere. Roof lanterns, strategically positioned to capture varying light patterns throughout the day, imbued the space with an ethereal glow, accentuating its inherent beauty.
One of the crowning achievements of the project was the creation of a snug window seat nestled within a deep alcove—an inviting nook where one could bask in the warmth of natural light and savour moments of tranquillity.
From conception to completion, the project spanned from March 2022 to December 2023—a testament to our commitment to delivering excellence and exceeding client expectations. At Studio 30 Interiors,
we pride ourselves on o ering a turnkey service that seamlessly orchestrates every aspect of the design process, allowing our clients to embark on their design journey with confidence and ease.
In the tapestry of interior design, every element serves a purpose, every detail tells a story. With this project, we have woven together light, warmth, and functionality to create a space that not only captivates the senses but also nurtures the soul—a testament to the transformative power of design.
01425
contact@studio30interiors.com
When you have a project and a need for a lift, look no further than Bourne Lifts, a leader in Bespoke Lift Installations, Repairs, Maintenance & Removal.
Operating from our new offices at 408 Wimborne Road East, Wimborne offering quality Italian made high spec elevators. Our installations speak for themselves.
We look forward to exceeding your expectations CALL US ON 01202 582923 FOR MORE INFORMATION.
Here’s how to renovate your kitchen sustainably
The trend for environmentally friendly fixtures and fittings is on the rise, says Sam Wylie-Harris.
When looking to transform your home, one of the first things that comes to mind is the kitchen – after all, it’s the hardest-working room in the house.
And with sustainability high on the agenda, chances are eco-friendly choices are right up there.
Indeed, according to the latest kitchen trends survey by home renovation and design platform, Houzz, it’s overwhelmingly a priority for homeowners, with the vast majority incorporating sustainable features during their renovation (93%).
Interestingly, the majority do so because of the longterm cost-effectiveness (75%). So how do you tackle your kitchen renovation in the most sustainable way?
Why it’s important
“A kitchen renovation is often a big project,” says Amanda Pollard, senior editor, Houzz. “It’s likely to create significant amounts of waste and will involve choosing numerous different materials and elements, which will all have an impact on the environment.”
The kitchen industry consumes a lot of virgin raw materials to produce all of the different elements, such as wood products for cabinetry, metals for appliances and stone for worktops, explains Mark Byers, director of Oliver Green Kitchens.
“Fortunately, the industry has reacted to the high demand for raw materials by embracing recycling,” says Byers. “But consumers also have a part to play by making good material choices when replacing or updating their kitchen.”
As Felicity White, director of Felicity White Interiors, points out: “Kitchen renovations are typically the most expensive area of the home to renovate, so creating a kitchen that’s going to stand the test of time is also important financially.”
The main things to think about
“There are three things to consider when choosing materials,” highlights Byers. “The first is whether it contains any recycled content, the second is its durability and the third is its end-of-life.”
Manufacturers play a big part in producing items that incorporate recycled elements, but we as consumers should be asking the question of how much, if any, recycled material is used in a product, advises Byers.
Secondly, considering the items’ durability means not buying products just based on price. “The cheapest products will often end up costing more over time because they simply don’t last,” says Byers.
“Sadly, the cheapest products are also the least likely to incorporate any recycled material and often cannot be easily recycled themselves,” notes Byers. “So being able to recycle, refurbish or repurpose products when you’re done with them is an important final consideration,” he adds.
One of the first questions we ask our clients is whether they can keep any elements of their old kitchen, says White. “Sometimes the cabinet carcasses are wellconstructed and it’s a case of replacing the cabinet fronts and handles, or even wrapping the cabinet fronts to save throwing them away.”
However, if you’re planning a complete overhaul, and the existing kitchen is in good enough condition, she says it may also be possible to sell it through secondhand kitchen vendors, such as Rehome.”
What materials are best?
White says to aim for natural materials. “For cabinets and door fronts, FSC timber and plywood are better options than particle board or MDF options you typically find with large kitchen retailers.”
“With the right construction and treatment, natural wood can last longer as it’s stronger and can be repaired, whereas engineered wood can’t. Engineered wood can also contain high levels of formaldehyde, which can be nasty if it gets into the air, she adds.”
One material to use less of, or not at all, is MDF, warns Byers. “As it’s difficult to recycle, most MDF products at the end of their life are used for fuel, which releases carbon and other [unpleasant] chemicals into the atmosphere.”
“Laminate worktops are also not great,” he notes. “Not surprisingly, both these products are heavily used in the kitchen industry because they’re cheap. As a broad guide, the best products to use are those that can be recycled and used in new products or can be refurbished or repurposed.”
When choosing materials for your new kitchen, experts on Houzz advise researching where the item is coming from, how it has been made and what is in it, says Pollard. “It’s also best to source items as locally as possible and keep chemicals to a minimum.”
Words by Sam Wylie-Harris, PAFAR LEFT
Roundhouse/ Mary Wadsworth
Photography/PA
ABOVE
Deborah Law Interiors/ Jonathan Little
Photography/PA
LEFT
Felicity White Interiors/PA
Rated Excellent
BY THE INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS INSPECTORATE IN FEBRUARY 2023
With small class sizes, a nurturing environment, pupils achieve excellent academic outcomes.
Join us at our next Open Morning on Thursday 21st March and discover what makes Park School special.
Booking essential, visit www.parkschool.co.uk/openmorning
South Gorley
South Gorley
Spencers are delighted to be marketing this exceptional, four bedroom, two bathroom, thatched property which oozes character throughout.
Spencers are delighted to be marketing this exceptional, four bedroom, two bathroom, thatched property which oozes character throughout.
The property is set in a quiet location within the New Forest National Park and offers well-appointed and generous living accommodation.
The property is set in a quiet location within the New Forest National Park and offers well-appointed and generous living accommodation.
This quintessential home offers the ‘complete package’ with exceptional south westerly views across the adjoining paddock land which amounts to approximately 3.1 acres, ideal for grazing land.
This quintessential home offers the ‘complete package’ with exceptional south westerly views across the adjoining paddock land which amounts to approximately 3.1 acres, ideal for grazing land.
Energy Performance Rating: D
Energy Performance Rating: D
£1,350,000
£1,350,000
Please contact the Ringwood office to arrange a viewing
4
4 3 2
Ringwood
Ringwood
Please contact the Ringwood office to arrange a viewing
A five bedroom contemporary detached residence of over 4000 sq ft, situated within the exclusive residential location of Avon Castle. This individual home, which was built to a very high specification by local builders, has been beautifully maintained by the current owners and stylishly finished throughout.
A five bedroom contemporary detached residence of over 4000 sq ft, situated within the exclusive residential location of Avon Castle. This individual home, which was built to a very high specification by local builders, has been beautifully maintained by the current owners and stylishly finished throughout.
The generous living accommodation benefits from a superb open plan kitchen, dining and living area with stunning porcelain tiled floors all with under floor heating. The property further benefits from modern Villroy and Bosch bathroom suites, carefully landscaped gardens, generous parking and an attached triple garage.
Energy Performance Rating: B
Energy Performance Rating: B
5 4 4
The generous living accommodation benefits from a superb open plan kitchen, dining and living area with stunning porcelain tiled floors all with under floor heating. The property further benefits from modern Villroy and Bosch bathroom suites, carefully landscaped gardens, generous parking and an attached triple garage.
Please contact the Ringwood office to arrange a valuation £1,500,000 5
Please contact the Ringwood office to arrange a valuation £1,500,000
South Gorley Spencers are delighted to be marketing this exceptional, four bedroom, two bathroom, thatched property which oozes character throughout. The property is set in a quiet location within the New Forest National Park and offers well-appointed and generous living accommodation. This quintessential home offers the ‘complete package’ with exceptional south westerly views across the adjoining paddock land which amounts to approximately 3.1 acres, ideal for grazing land.
Energy Performance Rating: D Please contact the Ringwood office to arrange a viewing
4
4
4
contemporary
Ringwood A five
residence of over 4000 sq ft, situated within the exclusive residential location of Avon Castle. This individual home, which was built to a very high specification by local builders, has been beautifully maintained by the current owners and stylishly finished throughout. The generous living accommodation benefits from a superb open plan kitchen, dining and living area with stunning porcelain tiled floors all with under floor heating. The property further benefits from modern Villroy and Bosch bathroom suites, carefully landscaped gardens, generous parking and an attached triple garage.
South Gorley
Milford On Sea
Spencers are delighted to be marketing this exceptional, four bedroom, two bathroom, thatched property which oozes character throughout.
The property is set in a quiet location within the New Forest National Park and offers well-appointed and generous living accommodation.
O.I.E.O £2,000,000
This quintessential home offers the ‘complete package’ with exceptional south westerly views across the adjoining paddock land which amounts to approximately 3.1 acres, ideal for grazing land.
An especially spacious modern house that has been finished to a very high standard by the current owners. The house occupies a highly convenient and desirable position close to centre of Milford on Sea and its well regarded bathing beaches. The house overlooks a nature reserve to the rear providing the perfect combination of convenience and seclusion. Accommodation is arranged over nearly 5,000 sq ft and currently provides an independent apartment. EPR: B
Energy Performance Rating: D
To arrange a viewing contact the Lymington office
£1,350,000
Ringwood
Please contact the Ringwood office to arrange a viewing
A five bedroom contemporary detached residence of over 4000 sq ft, situated within the exclusive residential location of Avon Castle. This individual home, which was built to a very high specification by local builders, has been beautifully maintained by the current owners and stylishly finished throughout.
The generous living accommodation benefits from a superb open plan kitchen, dining and living area with stunning porcelain tiled floors all with under floor heating. The property further benefits from modern Villroy and Bosch bathroom suites, carefully landscaped gardens, generous parking and an attached triple garage.
Energy Performance Rating: B
£1,395,000
Please contact the Ringwood office to arrange a valuation
£1,500,000
4
East Boldre
O.I.E.O £1,750,000
South Gorley Spencers are delighted to be marketing this exceptional, four bedroom, two bathroom, thatched property which oozes character throughout. The property is set in a quiet location within the New Forest National Park and offers well-appointed and generous living accommodation. This quintessential home offers the ‘complete package’ with exceptional south westerly views across the adjoining paddock land which amounts to approximately 3.1 acres, ideal for grazing land.
WWW.SPENCERSPROPERTY.CO.UK
Energy Performance Rating: D
Please contact the Ringwood office to arrange a viewing
£1,350,000
Put a spring in your step with a new season city break
Flowers, fiestas and folkloric celebrations revive Europe’s urban centres in the coming months, says Sarah Marshall.
Longer days and warmer temperatures make it easy to get outside and explore further afield. But you don’t have to stick to the countryside to witness the arrival of spring. Cities across Europe are decorated with both wild and human-made decorations – from the tulip fields of Amsterdam to the party marquees of Seville.
Before the heat, crowds and higher hotel rates of summer kick in, this is the best time to plan an affordable city break. Time a visit to coincide with a festival, new exhibition or floral extravaganza. Or simply go to make the most of one of the most beautiful periods of the year.
BEST FOR… A RIOT OF COLOUR
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Proving grey days are a thing of the past, this Dutch city explodes with colour in spring. Tulip fields on the outskirts are at their best and celebrated across the city as part of a month-long festival, culminating in a parade on April 20.
One hue, however, stands out seven days later on Koningsdag (King’s Day), when people and buildings are daubed orange for parties along the streets and canals.
Spare some time to admire palettes used by true masters in a series of new exhibitions: catch Frans Hals at the Rijksmuseum and Directed by Rembrandt at the Rembrandt House Museum. Immerse yourself in more art at the De L’Europe Amsterdam, decorated with works from the private collection of the Heineken family who have owned the property since the 1950s. Doubles from £430 per night with breakfast (two sharing). Visit Hotel De L’Europe.
BEST FOR… MARVELLOUS MARKETS
Florence, Italy
Along with grandiose Renaissance art and architecture, Italy’s merchant city shines with several superb markets. During spring months, stalls in the Central Market are stacked with colourful fruits and vegetables, showcasing Tuscany’s top seasonal produce. For vintage finds, head to the riverside weekly Cascine Market in Cascine Park on Tuesdays (8am-2pm).
In the centre of Florence, historic statues and grottoes in Boboli Gardens dazzle with colour. And anyone keen to celebrate New Year all over again can observe celebrations on March 25, historically the start of the civic calendar. A three-night B&B stay at Hotel Alba Palace costs from £799, including transfers and flights from Gatwick. Visit citalia.
ABOVE
The Boboli Gardens in Florence | Alamy/PA
BEST FOR… CHERRY BLOSSOMS
Bern, Switzerland
Holidays to see Japan’s famous cherry blossoms sell out far in advance, but there’s still a chance for last-minute travellers to see the Sakura closer to home. From the end of March to the beginning of April, Bern’s Rose Garden bursts into bloom with 110 cherry trees, originally gifted to the city in 1975 by a Japanese admirer.
Stroll through the park for views across to the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From March 19 to May 25, the International Jazz Festival will feature 200 concerts held at the intimate Marian’s Jazzroom – providing even more incentive to visit. Stay at the Swissôtel Kursaal Bern with views of the Swiss Alps, from £160 per night with breakfast (two sharing). Visit ALL Accor.
BEST FOR… BLOOMS AND BOATS
Copenhagen, Denmark
More European cherry blossom displays are in store at the Sakura Festival, held in the Danish capital’s Langelinie Park from April 20-21. Stroll between 200 candyfloss-pink trees and take advantage of warmer weather by enjoying a cruise along the city’s canals on tour boats, solar-powered vessels or kayaks. Copenhagen’s harbour waters are clean enough for a swim if you fancy joining locals for a plunge at Nordhavn or Islands Brygge.
Stick with an aquatic theme by staying at the NH Collection Copenhagen, located along the waterfront at the entrance to the Christianshavn district and easily distinguishable by its modernist 1950s facade. Rooms from £201 per night with breakfast (two sharing). Visit NH Collection.
BEST FOR… MUSICAL HIGHS
Salzburg, Austria
Striking the right chord with fans of opera and classical music, Austria’s romantic UNESCO city plays host to the Easter Festival with a programme of performances from March 22 to April 1. But even outside of this period, the hills of Mozart’s home are alive with the Sound of Music. Embark on long hikes along trails budding with wildflowers or wander through historic buildings and magnolia trees in the city’s Mirabell Gardens. At the end of March, the Trick Fountains of Schloss Hellbrunn also flow once again. A four-night B&B stay in a choice of four star hotels costs from £489pp, including flights. Visit Fred Holidays.
BEST FOR… FUN FIESTAS
Seville, Spain
Residents of this sizzling Andalusian city certainly know how to throw a fiesta. One of the biggest events is the April Fair, featuring 1000 casetas (tents) erected in a fairground area, where drinks flow and tapas bites are served until the early hours. Originally started in 1847 as a cattle fair, this year’s event will be held from April 14 to 20, attracting revellers in traditional dress who ride on horseback or in carriages. Grow giddy on the spectacle and the sweet scent of jasmine and orange blossom. A three-night B&B stay at Occidental Sevilla Viapol costs from £312 per person (two sharing), including flights from Gatwick. Visit Travel Supermarket.
ABOVE
The Mirabell Gardens in Salzburg | Alamy/PA
LEFT
The Seville April Fair | Alamy/PA
Reviewed Key West Bar & Grill
Key West Bar & Grill, nestled at the end of Bournemouth pier, offers a delightful blend of seaside charm and culinary excellence.
As you step into the restaurant, the invigorating scent of the ocean mingles with the tantalising aroma of freshly prepared dishes, creating an ambiance that is both refreshing and inviting.
The restaurant boasts panoramic views of the shimmering sea, with large windows allowing natural light to flood in, illuminating the space with a warm and welcoming glow.
The culinary journey begins with the Key West Famous Fish Platter, a symphony of flavours from the sea. Succulent muscles, tender fish goujons, plump king prawns, salt and pepper squid and crispy scampi are expertly prepared and served with zesty dips, tantalising the taste buds with each bite. The freshness of the seafood is undeniable, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to sourcing the finest ingredients.
Next up is the Meat Sharing Platter, a carnivore’s delight featuring a selection of juicy chicken and savoury sausages accompanied by sweet sticky BBQ sauce and chipotle mayonnaise. Served with onion rings and chips. Each element is cooked to perfection, offering a medley of textures and tastes that satisfy even the most discerning palate.
For those seeking a plant-based option, the Vegan Lasagne came highly recommended from our waitress. Made with layers of roasted vegetables in rich tomato sauce sandwiched between vegan pasta, and creamy béchamel sauce with a crumb topping is a stand out choice. Bursting with hearty flavours and wholesome ingredients, it proves that vegan cuisine can be both satisfying and indulgent.
We didn’t stop there, dessert was calling our names! For a slightly lighter option the Deluxe Cherry or Pistachio Ice Creams are the perfect choice to satisfy that sweet craving. The stand-out dessert though had to be the Warm Chocolate Brownie, slightly gooey in the middle, just how it should be, served with refreshing ice-cream, this dessert was worth every calorie!
With its delectable dishes and charming ambiance, Key West Bar & Grill provides a dining experience that is as memorable as it is delicious, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and ocean lovers alike.
To book your table call 01202 237902
www.keywestbournemouth.co.uk
SEEING IS BELIEVING
We create beautiful CGI’s for some of the best property projects on the South-coast. We’d love to hear about yours.
CULLEN HOMES HURSTBonnie & Clyde
Winner of Best New Musical at the WhatsOnStage Awards 2023, the West End cult-sensation is set to hold-up Mayflower Theatre following two hellraising seasons in London’s West End.
Playing Blanche Barrow in Bonnie & Clyde The Musical is a dream come true for Catherine Tyldesley. This is the Coronation Street and Strictly Come Dancing star’s professional musical theatre debut. “And I couldn’t be more excited,” Catherine says about appearing in the show named Best New Musical at the 2023 WhatsOnStage Awards.
She’s been approached about doing musicals before. “But I had to be really in love with something for me to leave the children for that amount of time,” the motherof-two admits. Then she heard Blanche’s big number That’s What You Call A Dream and was hooked. “Me and my husband [Tom Pitfield] got one verse in and he looked at me and went ‘Oh my God, you have to do this show’.”
Catherine, 40, listened to the rest of the music. “And I was 100% in. I fell in love with it and I knew that this was the one musical I had to do. I’ve been extremely lucky with film and television but I’ve waited a long time for this.”
The show features music by Frank Wildhorn, lyrics by Don Black and a book by Ivan Menchell, and it played to packed houses in London’s West End across two ravereviewed seasons. It’s an electrifying, energised retelling of the story of outlaws Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow, who became folk heroes during the Great Depression, with Tyldesley playing Clyde’s sister-in-law Blanche. Married to Clyde’s elder brother Buck, she reluctantly became part of the bank-robbing Barrow Gang and was the only member of the core group to survive, later serving a prison sentence for assault with intent to kill.
“She’s a powerhouse,” Catherine elaborates, “and she wears the trousers in the relationship between herself and Buck. They are deeply in love and she would do anything for him, but she’s very devout in her faith and she wants him to be on the right path in life. Buck is like ‘I can’t argue with this woman, she is the boss, so I’ve got to do what she says’.”
Delving into Blanche’s diaries, the actress was interested to learn she also tried to get Clyde to see the light. “But there’s a turning point mid-show where she realises that he is past all help. In her diaries she writes ‘I tried to help Clyde, I tried to help Bonnie’ but they were just unreachable.”
Catherine is no stranger to theatre. Her previous stage work includes Jim Cartwright’s Is There Anybody There? and she wrote and starred in The Ceremony, which also featured Sue Johnston and was filmed for broadcast during the pandemic to raise money for out-of-work actors.
Tyldesley, who was born in the Greater Manchester town of Walkden, hasn’t done a professional musical before Bonnie & Clyde, although during her training at the Birmingham School of Acting she appeared in such shows as The Sound of Music, Grease and Oliver! And she’s always been singing between acting roles, saying: “That’s how I made my bread and butter prior to Corrie. I was singing five or six nights a week, doing a lot of musical theatre numbers because that was my passion, along with jazz and swing.”
Having released her debut album Rise in 2016, she adds: “I’ve always loved singing and it’s great that now I finally get to do it in a big stage musical.”
The show, she notes, has a bit of everything. “You’ve got great music, adventure, the gangster element, but it also delves into the love story, to see the chemistry between Bonnie and Clyde, as well as between Blanche and Buck. It’s got that adrenaline-junkie feel but at the same time it’s really going to pull on your heartstrings. And it’s got great comedy in there too. Part of the reason that I was drawn to Blanche is because her oneliners are just brilliant.”
Can she relate to the character in any way? “I would say that I’m incredibly determined, as Blanche is. I was raised a Catholic and I don’t practise the faith anymore, but my mum is incredibly devout and anyone who meets her says ‘There’s something really special about your mum, something really powerful’. I’m using that for Blanche. She kind of has an inner strength that she takes from her faith, which makes her feisty.”
Music and musical theatre are in Catherine’s blood. Both her grandfather and her aunt were jazz singers and her mum was a huge Doris Day fan. “So it was Calamity Jane non-stop,” she smiles. “I remember going to see Grease five or six times and thinking ‘This is what I want to do
when I grow up’. After I left drama school I was convinced that I would work predominantly in musical theatre, but it just so happened that I fell into film and television.”
Tyldesley made her screen debut in 2006 in Holby City and was in Coronation Street (as a midwife), Doctors, Emmerdale and Shameless before returning to Corrie in 2011 as plucky Eva Price. “It was amazing,” she beams about landing the plum role for a seven-year stint. “I’d watched Corrie since I was a little girl and my family were obsessed with it. It really was a dream job but I felt I left at the right time because I wanted to explore other things and to develop as an actor and as a person.”
She’s had so many enjoyable jobs since leaving Weatherfield. “I’ve been incredibly lucky since leaving Corrie and have been blessed with such varied and wonderful roles, working with amazing talent and traveling to some beautiful places. I always struggle to pinpoint favourite jobs because each role is a blessing and a journey.”
A recent highlight is Channel 5’s hit murder mystery The Good Ship Murder, about which Catherine says: “It has been an incredible job with the most stunning locations, so much fun, with a wonderful cast. People have fallen in love with it and I’m so thrilled. Who doesn’t love a good murder mystery?”
She also loved being partnered with Johannes Radebe on Strictly Come Dancing in 2019. She’d done basic jazz dance at drama school. “But most of the time I avoided those classes because I just didn’t have any confidence. Strictly gave me that confidence and that came from Johannes, who is a special soul. I was like ‘I’m too tall to dance and I look a bit gangly’ and he told me ‘You’ve just got to go out there and own it’.”
She went on to do the Strictly live tour. “That was probably my favourite bit actually, because the pressure was off and we got so good because we were doing the same dances every night. We were so polished by the end of it and I was like ‘I wish we were this good on the telly show!’”
Tyldesley will be doing what she calls “a bit of mild dancing” in Bonnie & Clyde and she’s looking to touring the country again, this time in a fully-fledged music. “It’s super exciting and we’re going to all these iconic theatres in all these beautiful towns and cities.” She smiles. “It’s going to be quite the adventure.”
Bonnie & Clyde is showing at Mayflower Theatre from 2 to 6 April. Book now – it would be a crime to miss it!
www.mayflower.org.uk
Transform you travel dreams into reality
Not Ju Travel plan the experience, you make the memories!
Welcome to the world of hassle-free travel, where every journey is tailor-made to exceed your expectations. In today’s fastpaced world, where time o is a precious commodity, finding the perfect escape is paramount. While the internet o ers a plethora of options, nothing beats the personalized touch and expertise of a Personal Travel Consultant.
I understand the value of your time. Instead of you spending endless hours scouring countless websites (an average of 8 hours across 38 sites!), allow me to do the work for you. Being part of Not Just Travel, one of the UK’s fastest growing travel companies, gives me access to over 450 trusted suppliers, including exclusive deals from trade-only partners. I guarantee to find you the perfect holiday that suits your desires and budget.
NJT’s unique position enables me to leverage our buying power, ensuring that you get the best deals with the most reputable brands in travel. And with the WOW Travel APP, you gain access to a world of unbeatable o ers, many of which aren’t available online. It’s like having a VIP pass to unparalleled travel experiences, all at your fingertips. Simply search for the WOW! Travel app on iOS or Android, and don’t forget to use my agent code DA000410 to unlock a treasure trove of unmissable deals.
But it doesn’t stop there. Your peace of mind is my priority. As NJT is a member of ABTA and provides financial protection for your money when you buy a package holiday, you can book with confidence. And the best part? My services are completely free, and you can even spread the cost via direct debit.
Whether you’re dreaming of a luxurious cruise, a cultural expedition, a Honeymoon, or a romantic getaway, I’m here to turn your travel dreams into reality. My commitment to excellence, coupled with our user-friendly travel app, ensures that your journey with me is not just a trip, but an unforgettable adventure crafted just for you.
So why wait? Let’s embark on your next adventure together. Get in touch today, and let me make your journey begin!
Damon Robbins at Not Just TravelWEBSITE
www.damonrobbins.notjusttravel.com
www.notjustcruise.co.uk/tc/damonrobbins
Adventure awaits! Discover the magic of outdoor learning for your little one.
JOIN US FOR A THRILLING ADVENTURE AT ONE OF OUR EXCITING FOREST SCHOOL NURSERY EVENTS!
Nature Tots: every Monday until 25th March, 10am to 12pm. Just £5 per session.
Easter Egg Hunt and Easter Crafts: Friday 29th March, 9.30am to 11.30am and 2pm to 4pm. Free to attend!
Open Day: Tuesday 16th April 9am to 3pm. Explore our spacious outdoor grounds and see what we can offer your child.
These events are suitable for ‘walkers’ up to age 4. Booking is essential for each of our events so that we can cater for your child. Let us know which event you’d like to attend by visiting our website www.littlecricketsforestschool.co.uk/events
SALES - LETTINGS - LAND
Bournemouth £530,000
Renovated four double bedroom detached property |
Sought after residential location | Close to Southbourne Grove and its shops, cafes and bars | Airbnb income potential | Walking distance to award winning beaches
Shilingstone, Blandford Forum, £425,000
Three bedroom | Two bathroom | Semi detached | Stunning open rural views | Period family home | No onward chain
Broadstone £550,000
Detached two double bedroom bungalow | Recently refurbished and remodelled | Single detached garage | Summerhouse | Sizeable rear garden | Close to town centre
Ferndown £730,000
Extended renovated four bedroom bungalow in desirable location close to nature reserve | Contemporary open plan kitchen/diner/family room | Stunning glazed dining | Reception room with bi fold doors onto garden
Lytchett Matravers, Poole £825,000
Stunning detached bungalow | Four bedrooms | Semirural location | Annexe | Finished to high standard
Bournemouth £650,000
Five bedroom detached property | Superbly renovated | Exceptionally spacious versatile accommodation | Large feature kitchen/breakfast room | Double garage | Parking for 10 vehicles
Ferndown £485,000
Excellent project with scope to convert | Three bedrooms | Large detached double garage and integral garage | Off road parking and secluded garden | Conservatory and further outbuilding
Christchurch £600,000
Three bedroom detached | Stunning location close to river | Twynham school catchment | 60 ft rear garden with raised decking | Modernised throughout | Multiple off road parking spaces
Bournemouth £875,000
Five bedroom | Detached | Situated adjacent to Southbourne Overcliff | Close to beach with off road parking for multiple vehicles | Excellent investment | Income opportunity | Annexe | Sea views
Branksome Park, Poole, £2,500,000
Rare opportunity to purchase | Thirteen bedroom hotel | Includes three apartments | Dining area for up to forty persons | Lounge/ bar and other ancillary rooms | Off road parking and garden
Lytchett Matravers £1,500,000
Stunning large family home | Semi Rural location | Large grounds with Equestrian Potential/planning permission has been granted for four stables | Beautiful far reaching valley views | Completely refurbished throughout
West Parley £950,000
Detached family home | Three double bedrooms | One bedroom self contained annexe | Backing onto heathland | Fully modernised | Unique and private plot
Lychett Matravers, Poole £1,350,000
Coveted sought after semi-rural location | Spectacular Purbeck views | Plot approaching 2 acres including paddock | Five bedrooms | Three bathrooms | 3,000 square ft of luxury living space | Potential to divide for two families or annexe | No onward chain
Blandford Forum £575,000
Four bedroom | Semi detached | Stunning equestrian Offering with stables | Beautiful village location a short drive From Blandford | Network of local bridleways and hacking | Large garage | Workshop with further outbuildings.
Lytchett Matravers, Poole £1,100,000
Stunning 7.5 acre equestrian offering five bedrooms | Multiple garaging and outbuildings | Stables, tack room and field shelters | Private and secluded grounds | Well stocked fishing lake and surrounding paddocks | Far reaching rural views across countryside
Moreton, Dorchester £1,650,000
A beautiful well established country pub and gardens | Stunning setting in the heart of Dorset with own pub walk | Offered for the first time in 32 years due to retirement | Next to busy campsite offering exceptional summer trade | 4/5 bedroom extensive accommodation on the first floor
Bloxworth, Wareham £1,195,000
Four bedroom | Detached | Potential for home and income | Stunning character property | Picturesque countryside setting | Timber framed car port and extensive parking | Attractive gardens and courtyard
Ower, Romsey £875,000
Stunning lakeside residence | 3 well stocked fishing lakes | Plot of approx. 6 acres | Two-bedroom, twobathroom property Abundance of wildlife and species | Development potential subject to permission
Bere Regis, Wareham £850,000
Four bedroom | Detached | Stunning detached residence | Village centre location | Double garage and electric gate | Good sized rear garden | New build with vacant possession
Inspiration Agency GROWTH BUSINESS MARKETING
We deliver big business marketing at a price small businesses can afford.
We are delighted with our new e-commerce website. The Inspiration Agency really ‘got’ our brand right from the start, the build proceeded smoothly and nothing was too much trouble. We are already seeing great results in terms of visitors and orders!
Nothing is too much trouble, every deadline is hit and the expert advice we have received on everything from design to digital, search engines to social media has been outstanding. Plus we are getting calls for jobs from new clients and some we hadn’t heard from in a while!
An increase of 160% on impressions and 200% on engagement with our Followers on social media in just two months is amazing! Plus we have seen a significant increase in enquiries from the kind of customers we want to be talking to!
Delivering a full range of marketing strategies to get you more enquiries from your ideal customers.
Budget spa breaks to book this year 5
Here are some places you can visit if you are looking for a well-deserved reset.
Who doesn’t love a spa break, especially when it’s on a budget?
Whether it’s for a day or a weekend, going to the spa is a great way to bond with family, friends or even yourself. You can detox, breathe and experience a full-on and well-deserved reset.
MULLION COVE HOTEL AND SPA, CORNWALL
From £69.00
Mullion Cove Hotel and Spa offers guests spectacular views of the ocean, first and foremost.
If you would like a spa break, day experience and treatments at a clifftop luxury spa, set above the Mullion Cove harbour, where organic salt treatments are available, then making the trip could be worth it.
You can either catch your breath in the morning or afternoon or invigorate your senses with a ‘sea spray’ – a tailored spa session – and if your spa break is with a romantic partner, there are also other treatments just for that too.
Their unique ‘secret seaweed’ day escape includes a body wrap session to hydrate and relax you, a skin nutrient shot with a facial, time spent in a secluded rejuvenation room with ocean views and a fireplace, and a two-course meal at their Glenbervie Bistro.
REYNOLDS FITNESS RETREAT, KENT
From £59.00
With three branches in Bexley, Sittingbourne and a woodland retreat in Sevenoaks, Reynolds Fitness Spa has found a unique way to create an environment separate from all the hustle and bustle life often brings, where people can fully commit themselves to a time of indulgent relaxation.
Taking inspiration from Georgian architecture, the spa in Bexley has a sauna, steam room, whirlpools and even a
heated swimming pool for you to release any unwanted tension in your mind, body and soul. It also includes a monsoon shower, heated tiled lounger and fully automated foot spa, similar to what’s available to use at the spa in Sittingbourne.
From the mum-to-be experience, and escape packages to sanctuary packages, discovery packages and the afternoon experience, which range from 25 minutes to 2 hours 20 minutes, and can include breakfast on arrival, bubbly, aromatherapy, decollete massages or lava shell full body massages, Reynolds Fitness Spa, has something for every occasion.
LEFT
Woman relaxing at a spa | Alamy/PA
ABOVE
Reynolds Fitness Retreat | John Knight/PA
THE SWAN HOTEL AND SPA, NEWBY BRIDGE, LAKE DISTRICT
From £35.00
Inside The Swan Hotel you will find Holte Spa – curated by Temple Spa, a luxury skincare brand – where they have everything from treatments, thermal journeys, spa days, and breaks and can even host your summer parties.
If you want to spend an evening at a spa, then the Twilight session would be the one for you. It’s only available from Friday-Sunday between 6:00pm8:00pm. Spa days also include thermal and afternoon tea, champagne and truffles, just to name a few.
But if you want to extend the relaxation, The Swan Hotel, also offers short-term and long-term stays in their boutique rooms, where you could also visit their qualified nurse and aesthetics practitioner for treatments including microneedling and dermaplanning. It’s also dog-friendly too, with plenty of grounds to take them on scenic walks.
THE ATHENAEUM HOTEL, MAYFAIR, LONDON
From £60.00
The boutique spa at The Athenaeum Hotel is open from 9:00am-7:00pm every day but requires people to book in advance. You can book body massages, facials, scrubs, and signature treatments, or something bespoke to your specific needs, like anti-ageing eye treatment, foot massage, Indian head or hot stone massage, or glorious mud wraps.
Whether you are visiting the spa to reconnect with yourself in the heart of London, get that outer glow back or just have a day with friends to indulge, there are various packages for you to pick from. Especially if you plan on going with one other person, there’s more value for your money.
COTTONS HOTEL AND SPA, CHESHIRE
From £55.00
Cottons Hotel and Spa includes seven luxurious treatment rooms, complemented by a peaceful relaxation area. Additionally, it features many facilities, including a hot tub, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, poll and gym for a comprehensive wellness experience.
One of its most popular offers is the Ultimate Experience (£100 Monday-Friday, £110 Saturday-Sunday) which includes The Temple Spa Ultimate Glow Treatments (1 hour 20 min), 2 hours of use of the facilities plus a glass of fizz or Peroni.
But its most popular spa day is either the Morning or Afternoon Ritual (£110 Monday-Friday, £120 SaturdaySunday) which includes a 50-minute treatment, use of the facilities plus either light lunch or afternoon tea.
And for a great night’s sleep to complete your spa break, you can book a stay in one of their hotel rooms.
Words by Yolanthe Fawehinmi, PAXtra Hot Breakfast
Every Weekday 7am till 9am With Niall Moloney
Sometimes I just despair and those that know me, will say the headline today is NOT my normal headline. But what has led me to this?
The government, councils and MP’s are apparently shocked at the lack of rental stock, the increasing rents and landlords selling up. Really? Here are some facts.
1. Not all landlords are bad and rich! Most landlords are good landlords and all they wanted to do was take control of their own income and retirement.
2. Landlords are generally good people who want their tenants to be happy and secure in their home. In return, they just ask for tenants to pay their the rent on time and to look after the property.
3. The government trying to ban Section 21 notice is frightening many landlords and they are selling up! Yet 99% of landlords use this method for serious rent arrears or they want to sell or move back in. NOT because they feel like it.
4. When the government decided to tax landlords on the total rent and not allow them to deduct the mortgage interest, many landlords swapped their property to Airbnb so that they could deduct the mortgage interest.
5. Social Housing is more likely to have properties in disrepair than the private sector!
6. Tenants do not want periodic tenancies from day one, they want security of a home by having a fixed term tenancy.
7. Rents are rising due to the governments intervention of the above and causing the lack of stock.
8. ‘SHELTER’ do not provide shelter.
Rant over!
If you would like to discuss how we could help you manage your rental property, please email sharon@ moveon.biz
me 01202711169.
‘Everything starts with the child’
Dean Park Day Nursery is a spacious and well-equipped nursery that o ers full day care for children aged 3 months to 4 years. In its picturesque Bournemouth town centre location at the Cooper Dean pavilion, the nursery provides a warm and stimulating environment where children grow and thrive.
Guided by childcare experts, little ones are nurtured and cared for through their very first learning adventures in creativity, discovery, nature and play. With these as our overarching goals for the children, girls and boys are surrounded with creative opportunities that nurture their imagination and give them the space to discover their own creativity. A world of discovery is on o er to every child with large indoor and
CONTACT
T. 01202 297275
E. o ice@deanparkdaynursery.co.uk
outdoor spaces for them to explore, where they are encouraged to be free and to make choices about their learning.
The children’s learning is based around the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, where the seven core areas of development feature extensively in the children’s daily activities. Learning experiences are plentiful at Dean Park Day Nursery, and sta regularly update parents on their children’s progress through a secure
ADDRESS
Cavendish Road, Bournemouth, BH1 1RB
WEBSITE
www.deanparkdaynursery.co.uk
app which keeps busy, working parents updated with their little one’s development during their time at the nursery.
Choosing a nursery for your child is a big decision, so parents are invited to come along to the Dean Park Day Nursery Open Day on Saturday 9th March between 10am and 2pm where the nursery’s experienced team will be able to answer any questions and show you and your child around the wonderful setting.
Dru
Dru
Dreaming of better nights: National Bed Month inspires bedtime rejuvenation
March is National Bed Month, and no it doesn’t mean you can stay in bed for the month! However, it does mean it’s a good time to think if you need to buy a new bed.
Organised by the National Sleep Council, Bed Months main purpose is to create awareness of the importance of getting a good night’s sleep for our overall health and well-being.
A good nights sleep can be a problem for so many people. Nearly three quarters of UK adults (71%) do not get the seven to nine hours of sleep per night recommended by the National Sleep Foundation. What’s more, one in seven of us survive on dangerously low levels of sleep, getting less than five hours per night.
On average you will spend around a third of your lifetime in bed. So, if you’re having difficulty sleeping, looking at your bed or mattress is a step in the right direction.
Poor sleep is linked to a range of physical and mental health problems. Not only can sleep deprivation increase your chances of experiencing anxiety and depression symptoms, but it can also make you more likely to suffer cardiac problems, dementia and diabetes, among other issues.
When we fail to get enough sleep, it becomes more difficult to make rational decisions and control our moods. We’re also more likely to indulge in unhealthy foods and less likely to get the fresh air and exercise we need for our health and wellbeing.
What we sleep on plays a huge part in how well we sleep. A comfortable, supportive bed can make all the difference of a good nights rest! There’s something universally comforting about crawling into a cozy bed after a long day. National Bed Month is our annual reminder of the critical role a good bed plays in our lives.
The Sleep Councils bed MOT helps to determine if a new bed would improve your chances of a better nights sleep…
• Is your bed over seven years old?
• Are you waking more frequently unrefreshed and aching?
Do you disturb your partner or are you disturbed by them when changing sleep positions?
• Does it look used or worn?
Does it feel lumpy or is it sagging?
• Would it be embarrassing if someone saw it without the covers?
If you have answered yes to any of the above questions then maybe its time for a visit to David Phipp’s!
PHIPP | INTERIORS
At David Phipp House Furnisher in Ferndown they support Nation Bed Month and throughout March hold a Bed Month Sale offering extra discounts and special offers on leading manufacturers - Vispring, Tempur, Sleepeezee & Dunlopillo. Their large bedding department has over
50 beds on display for you to try each offering their own feature and benefits. Size options, supporting needs, budget, style, storage and space are all key factors in choosing a new bed. The offers also includes bedroom furniture from TCH & Custom Cabinets.
The bedding department display one of the largest Adjustable Bed Departments in the South of England. People that have a long term illness or are registered disabled are eligible for VAT Exempt.
Visit their showroom in March and take advantage of their exceptional Bed Month offers!
CONTACT
01202 897474 / 893377 sales@davidphipp.co.uk
WEBSITE www.davidphipp.co.uk
ADDRESS
Ringwood Road, Ferndown, Dorset, BH22 9AL
DAVIDSAo how much would one of our kitchens cost? Our average kitchen is around £30,000 including Quartz worktops, Quooker Tap, Neff appliances and fully installed but last month we quoted as low as £5,000 for a full kitchen including appliances and worktop excluding installation.
Throughout March 2024 you can have a FREE design consultation with David (the owner) who designed the kitchen pictured above and manufactured and installed this In-Frame kitchen pictured on the right.... Visit our showroom or our website below to book your free appointment and start planning your dream kitchen with Cricklewood Kitchens.
re you looking for a kitchen that will last the test of time?
Cricklewood Kitchens create bespoke luxury kitchens at affordable prices. Using only the best materials giving you peace of mind that it will last 20+ years. For example our In-frame kitchens come in the following materials: Lime, Alder, Ash, Oak, Walnut, which means they are stronger and more resilient to moisture and temperature changes The raw material is twice the price of our competitors yet we are only a fraction more
Beautiful bedding sets to the start of signal springtime 9
National Bed Month in March is the perfect excuse to style up your sheets, says Sam Wylie-Harris.
Considering we spend such a high proportion of our lives sleeping – with the goal of getting the best night possible – it makes sense to switch up your bed linen with a change in season. Especially if you want to achieve bedroom bliss as the days get lighter and longer, it’s time to store away those heavy blankets and wool throws.
With pretty prints, patterns, textures and thread counts, the best bedding will draw attention to one of the most important spaces in the house. Here’s how to elevate your relaxing ritual of going to bed…
01. VINTAGE STYLE
Duvet Cover & Pillowcase Set, Blue Gingham, from £12, Single, to £25, King, Next | Next/PA
Seen as the fabric for spring, is there anything lovelier than blue gingham? Especially if you’re into vintage style bedroom décor, this check print looks as beguiling as your first sighting of bluebells in springtime. It’s an easy care poly/cotton blend to build your retro furnishings around.
02. OASIS OF CALM
Dorit Bed Linen Collection, White/Grey: Duvet Cover, from £130, Single, to £180, Super King; Flat Sheet, from £90, Single, to £140, Super King; Oxford Pillowcase, from £35, Standard, to £45, Super King, The White Company | The White Company/PA
Looking to style out an oasis of calm?
These neutral ruffles with subtle block-print design in a cotton/help blend feels calm and soft against the skin. It becomes softer, more supple and totally charming, wash after wash.
03. INNER PEACE
Supersoft Textured Duvet Cover and Pillowcase Set, Lilac Purple, from £25, Single, to £55, Super King, Next | Next/PA
There’s something ethereal about seersucker in lilac, and this polyester mix brings inner peace with its light and airy texture.
04. EXOTIC AESTHETIC
Florian Quilt Cover Set, Soft Fern, from £129, Double, to £149, Super King, Sheridan | Sheridan/PA
A joyous bouquet bursting with fragrant blooms and lush greenery, this set in 100% cotton percale can be accessorised with sage green pillow slips for an exotic Mediterranean garden aesthetic.
05.
RUSTIC CHARM
George Green & White Textured Stripe Seersucker Duvet Set, from £12, Single, to £20, Super King, Direct.asda | Direct.asda/PA
A hidden gem, green and white stripes work like a dream with exposed beams, rustic woods and countrycore interiors. Made from polycotton, team with contrasting stripes and a patchwork lightweight throw for an escape route to the countryside.
06. BIOPHILIC TREND
Simply Leaf Green Printed Duvet Set With
Pipe: From £8, Single, to £14, King, B&M Home, in-store | B&M Home/PA
With the biophilic trend gaining traction and becoming a firm fixture in the world of interiors, this leafy fern print hits just the right note. Made from 100% polyester, it’s easy to wash and dry and wallet-friendly.
07.
GET ROMANTIC
Loveston Floral bedding by Laura Ashley in Coral Pink, from £38.50, Single, to £100, Super King, The Rug Seller | The Rug Seller/PA
This prairie-style ditsy print will feel right at home in romantic settings with jugs of wild flowers spilling over. Made from 100% cotton 200 thread count, it’s comfy and versatile with a reversible design for springtime duvet days.
08. SHOWSTOPPER
Dancing Cranes Bedding Duvet Cover and Pillowcase by Sara Miller in Midnight Blue, from £60, Single, to £110, Super King, The Rug Seller | The Rug Seller/PA
A showstopper for sure, these graceful dancing cranes call for a plush pink headboard to frame their fabulous feathers and midnight blue backdrop. Along with a boutique hotel vibe, 100% cotton sateen and 220 thread count comes with the promise of bedtime bliss.
09. SMOOTH AS SILK
Albany Bed Linen Collection, White/Pale Blue: Duvet Cover, from £90, Single, to £130, Super King; Albany Flat Sheet, from £55, single, to £85, Super King; Albany Oxford Pillowcase from £25, Standard, to £30, Super King, The White Company | The White Company/PA
When you want to give your body and bed a boost, 200 thread count Egyptian cotton sateen feels as smooth as silk against the skin. Channelling quiet luxury with a refined pale blue border and understated elegance, it’s a winner in the style stakes.
South Coast Stone; Experts in bespoke natural stone projects
South Coast Stone are proud to have worked on many exciting, technically challenging and creative commercial projects for some of the country’s leading enterprises.
South Coast Stone specialise in the importation, fabrication and installation of all types of natural and engineered stone and ceramic tiling. From our manufacturing facility in Poole Dorset, we install stone and ceramics throughout the UK. With over 50 years combined experience in the stone and ceramic industry we are able to manage any installation to ensure it meets all of your expectations.
At South Coast Stone we create beautiful, bespoke stone products for kitchens and bathrooms as well as fireplaces, vanity tops, sinks, coffee tables, bars, tiles and flooring, in fact most rooms in the home.
We have sourced and work with the finest and highest quality stone from around the world for the last 30 years, crafting unique and bespoke pieces for a huge variety of applications and customers.
All of our stonework is processed and completed by our own highly skilled craftsmen. All the stone is cut using the very latest CNC machines giving you the perfect
professional finish. We have examples of all types of stone at our showroom in Poole (easily accessible from Bournemouth or Southampton), where our friendly and knowledgeable staff will be able to help and advise you with your project.
Over the years we have built up a large portfolio of customers across the UK as well as an enviable reputation within the commercial market completing projects for such customers as: Four Seasons Hotel, Harbour Hotel ( Southampton ), Rick Stein, Ivy Asia, Louis Vuitton and Bluewater Shopping Centre.
Whether it be stone or ceramics/ porcelain our installers have a wealth of experience in installing all types of material to residential projects. From new build homes to highrise developments we have worked around the country installing to the highest of standards.
With one of the most extensive ranges of materials and suppliers on the market our experts can provide you with an all round design and installation service tailored to your needs.
With our capabilities and contacts we are able to offer an economical yet quality product and service our specialists are experts in all things stone. Once we have assessed your project and its location in full, upon request we are able to offer a choice of finishes and preparations to suit the specific requirements of your property.
FREE NESPRESSO COFFEE POD MACHINE*
*Receive a FREE Nespresso Coffee Pod Machine with every order placed before the end of March 2024, quote code H&LMAR when placing your order. Terms and conditions apply.
Within a new home you find our products everywhere, from the tiled entrance hall and bathrooms to the stone worktops and even the hearth our experience has been developed over 50 years and we have seen and done it all. We are in the perfect position to offer the full package from day one to ensure your project is completed on time and within budget. Our highly trained team have the skill and expertise to create a durable and versatile finish that will suit any premises, regardless of size or complexity, and South Coast Stone are proud to have a number of repeat clients who have been delighted with our efficiency and attention to detail.
Contact South Coast Stone to discuss your project and find out more about the importation, fabrication and installation of all types of natural and engineered stone and ceramic tiling.
CONTACT
01202 677188
info@southcoaststone.com
ADDRESS
3 Cowley Road, Nuffield Industrial Estate, Poole, BH17 OUJ
WEBSITE
www.southcoaststone.com
Trust Broadview to create the wow factor in your home
As we look ahead to the warmer months, we’ll soon be turning our attention to our gardens and the prospect of spending more time outdoors.
Whether that’s simply relaxing or entertaining friends and family, our gardens are a focal point, particularly in the Spring and Summer months. And what better way to make the most of your time outdoors than by creating an outdoor living environment with Broadview thanks to their louvred roof pergola systems and garden awnings.
With one of the largest ranges of outdoor living systems in the South and manufactured by industry leader Brustor, every system from Broadview can be custom designed to fit your property. Outdoor pergolas with easily retractable roofs operated by remote control, and optional front and side screens, can effectively create an extra indoor room outdoors!
And it’s not just the actual structure that Broadview can provide. Their specialist team works with a wide range of suppliers across the South who offer outdoor kitchens, hot tubs, fire pits and garden furniture – all of which help to create a stunning outdoor living environment that can be used all year round. No more leaving guests outside to entertain themselves while you nip back into the kitchen to prepare the next course or organise the next round of drinks. With an outdoor kitchen positioned within your new outdoor structure, you can really make the most of entertaining this Summer. What’s more, thanks to either sliding glass walls or roller screens, the structure can be completely enclosed and with integrated heating and lighting, it can be used in all twelve months of the year. Simply slide the glass shut and you create a cosy and sheltered garden pod protected from the elements. Or, in warmer weather, all you need to do to make the most of the sunshine is open the panels for the perfect al-fresco space.
As well as their range of pergolas, Broadview also offer retractable garden awnings that can be affixed to your property and open and close automatically or by crank handle. Made with a beautifully crafted aluminium frame of superior quality and a weather-resistant fabric cover, the awnings neatly fold and unfold to offer stylish shading for sunny patio areas. Available in a wide range of colours and fabrics to compliment your outside space, Broadview has a number of awning models to choose from, each with their own features and benefits including valances that offer increased privacy and protection from sunlight, as well as integrated LED lighting and heating.
And it’s not just Broadview’s range of outdoor shading solutions that can offer shield from the Summer’s sun and glare. They have an innovative range of internal window coverings for large and unusual shaped windows including apex / gable end windows and roof lanterns.
Many homeowners think that their complex shaped windows prevent them from being covered with a blind or shutters but worry not, you can still enjoy the beauty of an apex window with the coverage of a seamlessly fitted shade. Available in an endless range of colours and materials, along with robust hardware and cutting edge technology, Broadview’s bespoke blinds and shutters will allow ample natural light to flood into your home but offer shade when you need it.
Now is the perfect time to give your outdoor and indoor space a makeover. Broadview Shading Solutions, based in Poole, are this year celebrating 55 years in business. Their expert team specialise in helping you create the perfect shading in your home. They offer complimentary at home consultations and professional installation. Simply call 01202 679012 or visit their website: www.broadview.co.uk
Life isn’t perfect, but your roof can be!
We take pride in what we do and take care of your home as if it was our own. You can rely on our trained roofers to give you the very best, from a simple and basic job to more complex and advanced jobs. Our friendly and experienced project managers deliver specialised solutions tailored exactly to each and every clients’ requirements.
With a wealth of over 30 years of experience in the roofing industry, we have fine-tuned every aspect of the job, from customer service to product install ensuring the customer has the PERFECT experience without breaking the bank.
We also o er UP TOP SCAFFOLDING, streamline your operations, maximize productivity and accelerate projects.
WE OFFER AWARD-WINNING SERVICE
“ Have you seen our quoting vehicle around town? In a bid to reduce our carbon footprint we use our eye catching, all electric Citroën Ami to get around town!”
MOTORING NEWS
Mark Slack tells us the latest news on all things motoring.
BEHIND THE BADGE – AUDI
We‘re used to seeing badges on cars, and know the desirable ones, the ones we like, the ones we don’t like, but how much do you know about the history behind the badge? They all have a history and some are more interesting than others and Audi is an especially involving story.
August Horch took his first job in the industry courtesy of Karl Benz, who hired him to manage his factory in Mannheim. After three years of learning under Benz, Horch decided the time was right to strike out on his own and founded Horch & Cie Motorwagenwerke in 1899.
Initially making 2-cylinder and later 4-cylinder cars, Horch left the company in 1909 after difference of opinion with the company’s board and founded a new car company in the same the year. He couldn’t use the Horch name so translated his name into Latin, ‘Audi’. Between 1912-14 Horch’s cars gained three consecutive victories at International Austrian Alpine rally. One of the most challenging of the time.
Wanderer originated as a bicycle repair shop then started building bicycles and then motorcycles. Their first car in 1913 was known as Puppchen – English Moppet.
DKW was one of the largest motorcycle makers of the time. Danish founder Jorgen Skafte Rassmussen began experimenting with a steam powered automobile in 1916. It wasn’t a success so he started working on two-stroke engines. DKW became one of the most important motorcycle makers of the pre 1st world war period and started building cars in 1928. They were the first company to bring cars with front wheel drive.
Global recession meant that demand began to plummet from 1929 and companies began to experience financial problems. The recession led to union of
the four brands mentioned above, which was initiated by the State Bank of Saxony, and Auto Union AG became the second largest car maker in Germany by number of vehicles produced.
The four former companies, now merged into Auto Union, maintained their own distinct areas of expertise. DKW made motorcycles and small cars, Wanderer produced mid-size cars while Audi concentrated on deluxe mid-size cars, and Horch was the luxury car arm of the enterprise.
When Auto Union was formed in 1930 the four rings were seen as a badge for the first time. The name Auto Union was across the four rings and later the four rings symbolised the brand we know today as Audi.
ROAD TEST: TOYOTA YARIS GR SPORT - SPORTING LOOKS WITH HANDLING TO MATCH
There was a time when if presented with a small car and an automatic gearbox you would probably opt for a taxi. They weren’t great, but small automatics have moved on and Toyota’s Yaris GR Sport is one of the most fun small automatics to drive and a great place to start singing the praises of such cars.
Priced from £22,630 there is a single powertrain across the line-up, except for the rally inspired GR, a 1.5 litre, 3-cylinder hybrid petrol/electric driving through an e-CVT automatic transmission. There is also the Yaris Cross, a pseudo SUV, and the rally inspired GR.
The focus of my attention is the Yaris GR Sport, which has the standard powertrain but a more sporting look inspired by the rally bred GR. four other trim levels are on offer and the GR Sport shares top billing in the range at a not inconsiderable £29,420, but does come with a generous range of standard equipment.
Toyota has tweaked the chassis of the GR Sport additional underfloor bracing for increased structural rigidity, reduced aerodynamic drag from revised wheel-arch liners, and retuned shock absorbers and springs. The tyres are also slightly wider than you get on other models.
Standard equipment is excellent with privacy glass, dual zone air conditioning, smart entry and start, auto lights and wipers, powered and heated door mirrors, adaptive cruise control, LED lights including high beam assist and particularly comfortable front sports seats. Fitted with 18-inch alloys wheels and in my test car’s case the extra
cost, but wonderful looking, pearlescent Scarlet Flare maroon/red paintwork.
The new Yaris has a presence! It doesn’t look like your average small urban hatch but on the other hand hasn’t adopted that overly aggressive look which, in many people’s eyes blights so many otherwise good cars. With GR badging and a sporting stance the GR Sport rides on 40 profile tyres, so although the ride is firm it’s not uncomfortably firm.
It may not be a hot hatch but it is dynamically well sorted and great fun on twisty roads. The CVT transmission is actually very good, not always the case with CVTs, and even under enthusiastic acceleration it makes tidy progress. Super comfortable seats make this a really good long distance car if needed, and returning over 60 mpg it’s not going to cost either.
This is a terrific little car and combines the best of sporting looks with economic and comfort bonusses.
ROAD TEST: LEXUS NX – CLASSY, COMFORTABLE AND REFINED
We have become used to manufacturers creating sporting or luxury brands as offshoots to their main production vehicles.
One of the car makers that began this trend, and certainly brought it to greater public consciousness, is Toyota. In 1989 they launched Lexus as their luxury arm and unlike some brands have maintained a presence where others have retreated. They have also succeeded in differentiating their two brands with Lexus having much sharper and more angular looks and strong exterior lines.
The latest Lexus NX has just been launched and prices for this larger SUV start from a not unreasonable £44,430. Powertrain choices are the 350h, a self-charging hybrid, or a plug-in hybrid, the 450h, the first from the company. You can drive the front wheels or all four of them, and the 2.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine is mated to an e-CVT automatic gearbox.
All NX models come with tyre pressure warning system, automatic rolling door locks, push-button start, dual zone air
conditioning, auto dimming rear view mirrors, power adjustable steering wheel, heated front seats, LED lights with high beam assist, multi-function electric door mirrors, auto lights and wipers, car play and android auto, 10-speaker sound system, reversing camera and power tailgate. Phew!
My test model was the 350h, all-wheeldrive, Takumi model that sits towards the top of the range at £59,485 and came with a tilt-and-slide panoramic sunroof along with a vast array of standard equipment
and safety kit. Quality on all Lexus models is pretty much as guaranteed as it’s possible to be, and the NX is no exception. The interior of my example had ‘Dark Rose’ seating and looked very classy and a nice contrast to the black trim elsewhere.
A large touchscreen and some traditional buttons (no sub-menu scrolling required) reveals a much more intuitive control set up. Previous Lexus models have seen controls that are rather too clever for their own good, a kind of form over function approach. Not so in this latest NX and it enhances the usability of an already impressive interior.
On the road the refinement and smoothness of the NX is excellent, unless you over exercise your right foot when the engine’s vocals rise noticeably due to the nature of the CVT gearbox. For the main part though it’s a very nice drive with well controlled suspension over the rough stuff and decent steering. The NX is a classy, comfortable and refined SUV with all the usual, and very welcome, Lexus attributes.
ROAD
TEST: HYUNDAI
TUCSON – TICKING ALL OF THE BOXES
I’m frequently told that all cars look alike nowadays, the only differentiator being the badge on the bonnet. Well there’s no mistaking Hyundai’s Tucson SUV. It has an imposing front, that reminds me a little of the 1960s Dodge Charger RT, and the company’s stand-out styling has made it many friends in the showroom.
The front lights of the Tucson are shielded at the outer edge of the dominant front grille and provide an excellent level of light in terms of both spread and distance. It’s a neat styling touch that certainly makes drivers do a double take in their rear view mirror. This current generation was launched back in 2020 and it’s still turning heads.
My test model was the Premium full hybrid version priced at £38,140 and powered by a petrol 1.6-litre engine bolstered by a 44kw electric motor to produce 230 PS. Standard equipment across the board includes heated front seats and steering wheel, climate, automatic lights and wipers, LED lights, cruise control, heated and powered folding door mirrors, automatic dimming rear view mirror, parking sensors with rear camera, keyless entry and start, navigation, Bluetooth and wireless charging. It’s an impressive list.
Thankfully in an age of digital mania Hyundai have sensibly maintained some buttons rather than burying everything in the digital menu of the large touchscreen.
The safety features such as lane-keep are relatively unobtrusive although a bit of a faff to switch off should you wish. Seating is very comfortable with multiple adjustment and no one will complain about a lack of space as there is plenty of room for all along with their luggage.
On the road the Tucson has plenty of power from its 1.6-litre engine and is both smooth and refined, although it’s never going to set your driving pulses alight there’s a very respectable 8 seconds to reach the benchmark 100 kph/62 mph. It isn’t meant to be a drivers’ car, this is a family and work machine capable of everything from the school run to chauffeuring for a black tie dinner. There’s an upmarket and special feel to the interior, not always a given these days and once you’ve mastered the push buttons for the automatic transmission it’s a genuine delight to drive. Having recently sampled the all-electric Ioniq 6 the Tucson may be more conventional in some aspects but it’s a very big tick in the box for the Hyundai!
Starting from just £33,795, the Volvo EX30 presents an exciting opportunity for those seeking to own this outstanding vehicle.
Secure yours now with a fully-refundable £500 deposit.
- Up to 295 miles electric range
- Google built-in
- Over the air updates
- 2% benefit in kind available for company car drivers
Please scan the QR code to register your interest in the Volvo EX30.
To find out more, call Volvo Cars Poole on 01202 065 555 or visit www.volvocarspoole.co.uk
The figures are preliminary and derived from estimates and calculations performed by Volvo Cars for the EX30, and these outcomes are not guaranteed. 2024/25 tax year. The real-life energy consumption achieved under real conditions varies depending on driving behaviour and other external factors. Vehicle certification pending. Fully-refundable £500 deposit available for retail sales only.
ROAD TEST: SEAT LEON FR SPORT E-HYBRID - A TEMPTING PACKAGE AND AN ENTERTAINING DRIVE
Spanish car maker SEAT, part of the Volkswagen group, has a longer history than many realise having been formed in 1950. It was created by Spain’s government-owned Instituto Nacional de Industria, Spanish private banks, and Fiat. After 36 years the Spanish government sold SEAT to the Volkswagen Group in 1986.
SEAT has another brand in its stable now, Cupra! It appeared in 2018 and was billed as their sporting brand, and SEAT has always portrayed itself as a more sporting alternative since it became part of VW. The Cupra brand has proved very successful but now the downside is that SEAT has revealed they plan to lose the SEAT name off their range and concentrate on Cupra. Although the SEAT name may well appear on other modes of transport, for now at least the SEAT name is set to disappear from our roads.
Which proves a good opportunity to get behind the wheel of the SEAT Leon FR Sport plug in hybrid. Many SEAT models have a
Cupra equivalent but the differentiation between the SEAT Leon and the Cupra Leon is the latter being a more sporting take on the former with lower ride height, bolder styling tweaks and a sportier interior.
The SEAT Leon is arguably, therefore, a more liveable daily drive as although it does sit low, and has firmed up suspension, the ride is perfectly acceptable even on our worst roads. It still retains a sporty dynamic with nicely weighted steering and feels agile and sure footed enough to prove quick, and entertaining, on twisting cross country roads.
The range starts from £23,335 and encompasses four trim levels and four engines including the plug-in hybrid. Lead-in models have air conditioning, rear parking sensors, keyless start, LED lights, CarPlay and Android Auto. The plug-in hybrid in FR Sport trim (£37,880), with power from a 1.4-litre hybrid petrol engine aided by a 75kw battery. This means you have 40 miles pure electric driving, subject to weather conditions and type of driving, and three modes – pure electric, pure petrol or a combination of the two, where the car decides which is the appropriate power and can include both petrol and electric.
In FR Sport mode standard fare includes three-zone-climate, park assist, auto dimming mirror, wireless phone charging, heated front seats and steering wheel, suede upholstery and interior wraparound interior lighting.
For those dipping an automotive pedal into EV motoring the Leon e-Hybrid is a tempting package and an entertaining drive.
ROAD TEST: BMW I5 - OLD FASHIONED STYLE AND CLASS WITH MODERN POWER
The BMW 5-Series has been a feature of the German manufacturer’s sales brochures since 1972, designed by automotive guru Paul Bracq the 5-series has seen numerous incarnations over its production life. You can still buy petrol and diesel 5-Series and there’s some new, greener power under the 5-Series bonnet now in the form of plug-in hybrid and all-electric versions.
In an age where hatchbacks, crossovers and SUVs dominate it’s rare to find a traditional saloon. While some may consider a saloon old fashioned many think a saloon looks classy and stylish. BMW’s i5 eschews the seemingly standard approach of making EVs somewhat quirky, or arguably downright odd, and has produced a near perfect fusion of old fashioned style and class with modern power.
A 105kw electric motor powers the rear wheels in true BMW tradition. Two i5 models are the e-Drive 40 MSport and MSport Pro plus the all-wheel-drive M60 XDrive, which
is the more sporting of the trio. Despite this the MSport and MSport Pro are no pedestrians, with the benchmark 62 mph reached in 6 seconds. Exercise your right foot in swift style and the i5 heads for the horizon at a considerable pace and certainly made my passengers break into large smiles.
Going electric with the 5-Series means an i5 with prices starting from £74,105. My test MSport Pro has a decent standard equipment list but as ever getting carried away on options can be costly. On my test car to the extent of an additional £16,370 including a panoramic glass roof, superb Tanzanite blue metallic paint and
a replacement for the already high quality standard Harmon Kardon sound system. This pushed the total price of the test car to a not inconsiderable £92,570.
Inside the i5 it feels special, as it should at the price, yet despite the subtle style it’s a head turner and during my time garnered much favourable comment. For me there’s far too few buttons and too much touchscreen action required. That said the touch technology works well and reacts quickly, it’s a nicely intuitive system.
On the road, addictive acceleration included, the i5 is a delight and a well-drawn combination of sports saloon and luxury cruiser. With a quoted maximum range of 357 miles, real world driving probably 300310 miles, it’s a useable distance.
Let’s hope that the public charging network here in the UK improves so that you can take an i5 on road trips with confidence. For me though a plug-in hybrid version would be a better companion.
Old Harry Rocks
Dorset
Standing tall on Handfast Point at the southern end of Studland Bay, Old Harry is one of the South Coast’s most famous landmarks. Best viewed from sea, Old Harry Rocks is a must visit aboard our Axopar 28 Cabin.
BOATS & JETSKI’S
TIME FOR ADVENTURE
Imagine an evening on the water, the sun setting, laughter echoing as you share moments with friends. Or perhaps it's the joy of creating cherished family memories, casting lines for those elusive Mackerel. And for those seeking solace, picture cruising the Jurassic Coast, the wind in your hair, worries left behind. Our Boat & Jetski Memberships offer a seamless, hassle-free way to embrace the beauty of the UK coastline, right at your fingertips.
NEW TREATMENT NOW AVAILABLE
Polynucleotides
Polynucleotides are currently one of the hottest treatments in the aesthetic industry, increasing popularity and in high demand. Polynucleotides are derived from salmon DNA which rejuvenate and regenerate the skin. By stimulating fibroblasts, promoting tissue repair and enhancing cell turnover and increasing collagen production and elasticity.
What can Polynucleotides be used for?
Sagging and formation of fine lines • Deep lines and sunken winkles • Under eye lines and dark circles • Puffiness • Acne scarring and heals sun damage • Hydration • Skin rejuvenation
How long does it take for Polynucleotides to work?
Three sessions at four weeks apart, followed by a further treatment every 6 months for optimal results.
Wassmuffin Martial Arts Academy; Sweat your way to a leaner, fitter, more confident you!
Wassmuffin Mixed Martial Arts Gym is widely known to hold the reputation of friendliest MMA gym in town. With a vibe that’s not been paralleled they welcome all levels and all ages.
There’s something there for everyone whether your looking to learn a new skill, get fit, self defence, build confidence, get strong, make new friends, lose weight, add to your social life, or possibly even learn some new dance moves – this is the gym to be at.
We have classes in Thai boxing, bootcamp, boxing and MMA. Mixed classes, ladies only, kids (age 4-9) and juniors (9-15).
Classes are held early mornings, lunch times, evenings and weekends. With six experienced coaches all with a different vibe and style of teaching means there really is something to suit everyone.
The only regret our clients have had is they didn’t start sooner!
We have hundreds of 5-star reviews, and the main comments that come up time and time again are how we feel like one big family, and the fun we have while training hard.
Our new client deal enables you to try 30 days for £30! As well as student membership for £40! And a child membership for £40! Along with sibling and family deals there’s no reason not to try. It could be one of the best choices you ever made.
How to make the most out of your leftovers
Food writer Sue Quinn breaks down why it’s time to find the joy in leftovers.
Leftovers have a bit of an image problem.
They’re often seen as the sad bits of lettuce or remnants of a meal at the back of your fridge that you know you should use up, but they don’t really seem all that appealing.
Back in wartime, it was the “financially proper” thing to use up leftovers, explains food writer and author of new cookbook Second Helpings, Sue Quinn, but that later changed.
“There was a period in the Sixties where leftovers fell out of fashion a bit – not using leftovers for dinner was almost a sign that you were comfortably middle class,” she says.
But things are shifting again, now that there’s a “perfect storm of environmental problems and financial crises”, Quinn adds, putting the spotlight back on leftovers.
“It’s focused all our minds on really valuing the food we have and eating all of it. It just makes sense, doesn’t it? It makes sense on every level not to throw money into the bin,” Bournemouth-based Quinn explains.
“And people are starting to have a greater appreciation that food waste goes into landfill, which rots and methane gas goes into the atmosphere, and that causes environmental issues.”
If those reasons aren’t compelling enough for you, Quinn adds: “They’re low effort, because you’ve already done the bulk of the hardcore cooking.”
Looking to make the most out of your leftovers? Quinn has a few top tips…
Store them properly
Storing your leftovers properly “really does make a huge difference”, says Quinn, 57. She suggests tinfoil is the “enemy of leftovers” because it covers them up: “We can’t see what they are, so they get gradually shoved to the back of the fridge and we discover them a week later, mouldy.
“So really thinking about storing your leftovers will enable you to see what you’ve got and it’s much easier to get inspired.”
Do the prep
Quinn’s top advice is to do all the prep before you put your leftovers away – taking the example of a roast chicken.
“My approach is to pull the meat off the chicken as soon as you possibly can, put it in a lovely container with a lid so it’s airtight, use a marker pen to put: ‘This is shredded chicken’.
“That’s much more appealing – someone’s going to use that much more quickly than a manky plate that looks as though it’s going to take you an hour to deal with.”
Don’t be afraid to buy more
It’s a common misconception that you have to use up your leftovers all at once, but Quinn just doesn’t buy into this theory.
“You don’t have to get to ground zero in your fridge. On a Monday morning after a roast, the aim is not to clear everything out – you still have to be eating [that week],” she says.
“You just have to prioritise the elements that are going bad first. Most leftover cooked food can last three or four days in the fridge if you store it well. There’s no reason you can’t use it piecemeal and buy more ingredients to use with it – and then really enjoy the dish that you’re doing, rather than scraping it all into a pan and getting rid of it.
“Put a little bit more thought into it,” she adds – and if that requires buying a few more ingredients, so be it – so long as everything is used up at some point.
Lean into spice
Quinn calls spice the “secret weapon to leftovers”, because they mean you can “choose your own adventure” and make the next meal totally different to the first one.
For example, in her latest cookbook she’s got a recipe for roast dinner enchiladas.
“You transform [your roast dinner] into something completely different, because of the spice journey that you’re taking with the enchiladas, and also the form that it’s taking – you’re wrapping it in tortillas and it’s a completely different experience. It really doesn’t taste like something that is leftovers.”
Change your mindset
Ultimately, Quinn wants to challenge our misconceptions around leftovers.
Her advice? “Celebrate leftovers – don’t just think of them as something you need to use up because you should. Use them up in a way that’s really special and get the most out of them.
“It’s an opportunity for deliciousness, rather than something you should get rid of.”
Words by Prudence Wade, PASecond Helpings by Sue Quinn is published by Quadrille, priced £18.99. Photography by Facundo Bustamante. Available now
INGREDIENTS
500–600g leftover cooked meat and/or vegetables, chopped
200g grated hard cheese, such as Cheddar, Parmesan, Gruyère, Lancashire or a mix 4 large tortilla wraps
For the tomato sauce:
2tbsp olive oil, plus extra for brushing
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
2tbsp chilli powder
2tbsp smoked paprika
1tbsp ground cumin
1tsp dried oregano
2tsp brown sugar
1tsp fine sea salt
2 x 400g cans chopped tomatoes
INGREDIENTS
260g cold cooked rice
3-4tbsp sriracha sauce or chilli crisp oil (depending on how spicy you want your rice)
1½tbsp soy sauce
2tbsp tomato purée
2tsp sesame oil, plus extra for drizzling
2tbsp vegetable oil, for frying
1 spring onion, finely sliced Fried eggs, to serve
Steamed greens, such as pak choi, to serve
Roast dinner enchiladas
SERVES 4-6
1. For the sauce, warm the oil in a large frying pan and fry the onion until soft and golden, about eight minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for one minute. Add the spices, oregano, sugar and salt and cook gently, stirring, for a further minute.
3. Add the tomatoes and simmer gently for 15 minutes, stirring now and again, until you have a rich, thick, deep-red sauce. Taste, add more salt if needed, then take the pan off the heat.
4. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan/350°F/Gas mark 4 and brush a baking dish measuring about 20-centimetre square with olive oil.
5. Distribute the leftovers and half the cheese equally between the wraps and roll them up.
6. Arrange in the prepared baking dish – they should fit snugly.
7. Spoon the tomato sauce between and over the wraps. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
8. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbling. Serve hot with salad on the side.
Crispy chilli rice with fried egg
SERVES 2
1. Mix together in a bowl all the rice ingredients except the vegetable oil and spring onion. Make sure all the rice grains are well coated.
2. Heat a large heavy frying pan, non-stick ideally, until very hot. Add the vegetable oil and swirl to cover the base.
3. Add the rice, spread it out over the base of the pan in a thin layer and flatten with a spatula. Fry over a medium-high heat for two minutes without disturbing. Drizzle a little sesame oil over the rice and flip chunks of it over – it should be burnished and crisp in parts. Fry for another two minutes, pressing down again with the spatula.
4. Flip the rice again. It should be a mixture of crisp and not so crisp grains. If this hasn’t happened yet, keep frying, flipping and pressing but be careful not to overcook the rice – you don’t want it dry and hard.
5. Serve the rice hot, with a fried egg, greens and spring onion sprinkled on top.
Sticky
ginger cake SERVES 2
INGREDIENTS
Vegetable oil, for brushing
175g plain (all-purpose) flour
½tsp ground cinnamon
1½tsp ground ginger
¾tsp bicarbonate of soda
A pinch of fine sea salt
80g unsalted butter
130g golden syrup
130g black treacle
140g cold porridge
1 large egg
25g chopped crystallised ginger, roughly chopped
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan/350°F/Gas mark 4. Line a 20-centimetre square baking dish with baking paper so it comes up and over the sides: lightly brushing the dish with oil first keeps the paper in place.
2. Put the flour, spices, bicarbonate of soda and salt in a mixing bowl and combine with a fork.
3. Melt the butter in a medium pan then remove from the heat. Stir in the syrup and treacle. Loosen the porridge (oatmeal) by stirring it well, then add to the buttery syrup along with the egg. Beat with a wooden spoon to thoroughly combine and break up larger bits of porridge.
4. Stir the mixture into the flour and spices, until everything is fully combined. Pour into the prepared dish, making sure the batter fills the corners. Smooth the top and stud with chopped ginger.
5. Bake for 30 minutes, or until firm to touch and an inserted skewer comes out clean. Leave in the dish for 10 minutes, then lift out onto a wire rack to cool using the overhanging baking paper as handles.
Second Helpings by Sue Quinn is published by Quadrille, priced £18.99. Photography by Facundo Bustamante. Available now
122
Redefining strength through training, nutrition and community
With an incredible, supporting community of members, Train Elite, is a fully inclusive Bournemouth based gym, supporting men and women of all ages and all fitness levels to get fit and healthy and achieve their own personal goals. From 6am to 7pm 5 days a week, and with sessions on Saturday and Sunday, we offer a full programme of group classes, including HIIT, Pump, Boxing, Metafit, plus Stretch & Mobility and Yoga. We also offer specialist Strength & Conditioning sessions with our expert trainers, ensuring you achieve optimum results.
Our programmes are designed to progressively build strength, helping you burn fat, improve fitness and energy levels and support bone health, particularly important for women at menopause age. Alongside nutrition programmes, specially designed recipes books, and dietary support. Plus integrated wearable tech from MyZone.
Our community is second to none. Inclusive, welcoming, supportive and fun. Take up our offer of 3 free sessions, give us a try and meet some of our Train Elite family!
Slipway Café:Bar
Tel 01202 308510
Discover the new Slipway Café bar nestled by the tranquil Holes Bay in Poole Harbour it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind. Open daily from 10.30am there’s coffee and cake, afternoon tea, and a new light bites menu – it’s a great place to watch the world go by.
Slipway Café Bar @ RNLI College, West Quay Road, Poole BH15 1HZ
rnli.org/rnli-college/eat-drink-and-relax/slipway
What’s on IN MARCH
W h a vibrant mix of countryside, bea es and attra ions, there is always plenty to do in Dorset & Hampshire. Here is a sele ion of events happening across the counties over the coming weeks.
MOTHER’S DAY AT OCEANA HOTELS
10 MARCH
Spoil Mum this Mother’s Day at Oceana Hotels. Explore extraordinary experiences for you and mum at Oceana Hotels & Restaurants in Bournemouth. Whether you prefer a heartwarming Sunday lunch or a luxurious afternoon tea, our thoughtfully curated selection guarantees a special treat for every mum this Mother’s Day.
Sunday lunch from £21 per person and afternoon tea from £21 per person.
TOMMY SCOTT (SPACE) DUO
15 MARCH
Tommy Scott is the lead singer and songwriter of the multi-platinum selling band, Space. Although Tommy continues to tour with Space – last summer the band played the Poole Harbour Festival – but lately he has been doing more intimate shows with band mate Phil Hartley, the bass player and producer from Space, and it is in this guise that he returns to Poole to play Lighthouse on Friday 15 March.
The set is made up of fan favourites and Space hits coupled with some of Tommy’s solo project songs recorded for the Tommy Scott Quintet album, Marionette. Tommy and Phil sing and play unplugged guitar with laptop backing and new instrumentations in line with the acoustic vibe.
LIGHTHOUSE, POOLE
www.lighthousepoole.co.uk
EDWARD SCISSORHANDS
13 - 16 MARCH
Matthew Bourne’s magical dance production of Edward Scissorhands has carved a place in the hearts of audiences world-wide since its premiere in 2005. In a castle high on a hill lives Edward; a boy created by an eccentric inventor. When his creator dies he is left alone and unfinished with only scissors for hands until a kindly townswoman invites him to live with her suburban family. Can Edward find his place in the well-meaning community which struggles to see past his curious appearance to the innocence and gentleness within?
MAYFLOWER THEATRE www.mayflower.org.uk
AN EVENING WITH ANTON DU BEKE AND FRIENDS
06 MARCH
With his live band, a guest singer and his dancers, expect a fab-u-lous evening of song, dance and laughter. Anton will be performing some of his favourite songs and dances that have inspired his career throughout his life. Expect behind the scenes stories from his time on Strictly that will have you laughing out loud. Don’t miss this special opportunity to get up close to the King of the ballroom in 2024.
BOURNEMOUTH PAVILION THEATRE
www.bournemouthpavilion.co.uk
MARCH | WHAT’S ON
SPRING FLOWER WORKSHOP
27 MARCH
Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s Disability Charity, is asking you to embrace your creative spirit this Spring. The charity will be hosting a Spring Flowers workshop on Wednesday, March 27 guided by the Academy of Floristry to create a beautiful arrangement ready for the Easter holidays.
Tickets are £50 and include all the materials needed for the evening, as well as expert tuition and light refreshments. Participants will be helping to fund arts and crafts activities across the charity’s services for children and adults with physical and learning disabilities.
The workshop takes place at The Beehive, the charity’s therapy and activity centre, based in Manor Avenue in Parkstone from 6.00 – 9.00pm. For tickets and information visit diverseabilities.org.uk/events2024/ springflowers.
THE BEEHIVE
www.diverseabilities.org.uk
Dates for your diary
WORLD BOOK DAY AT FARMER PALMERS
07 - 10 MARCH
FARMER PALMERS
www.farmerpalmers.co.uk
SPRING FAMILY FUN AT LULWORTH
31 MARCH - 11 APRIL
They have some extra family fun for you at Lulworth Castle this Spring Holiday.
Visit us from March 31st to April 11th (Sunday – Thursday) and enjoy their trails, games, hunts and crafts all included in the usual admission price.
Spend the day exploring the Castle, climb the tower, visit our Peacock Park woodland playground and enjoy some tea and cake in the Castle Tearoom or why not book a lunch at the nearby Weld Arms Pub.
Tickets Adults £9, Senior £8, Child £6, under 4’s free. Pay & Display parking £3 for all day. Advance booking recommended. Well behaved dogs on leads welcome in the castle and grounds.
LULWORTH CASTLE AND PARK
www.lulworth.com/spring
MUMS ZIP FOR FREE
10 MARCH
ROCK REEF AND PIER ZIP
www.rockreef.co.uk
ST. PATRICK’S DAY!
16 MARCH
KEY WEST
www.keywestbournemouth.co.uk
QUEEN EXTRAVAGANZA
16 MARCH
BIC BOURNEMOUTH
www.bic.co.uk
CHER TRIBUTE NIGHT
22 MARCH
THE CUMBERLAND
cumberlandbournemouth.co.uk
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.
1.
14.
17.
20.
21.
22.
23.
10.
12.
15.
16. Trousers (6)
18.
19.
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, BOURNEMOUTHContact us now for a free consultation.
01202 287351 contact@stallionpm.co.uk
303 Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth, BH8 8BX
stallionpropertymanagement.co.uk
“Really great service, lots of help with choosing the right worktop from their vast selection. Templated and fitted on schedule. A beautiful finish without any problems, highly recommend.”
“These guys were AMAZING from start to finish... I cannot recommend them highly enough. They couldn’t do enough for me, were swift, helpful, friendly and went above and beyond to make the whole transaction an easy and pleasurable experience. THANK YOU SO MUCH.”
“It’s rare to find a company as good as this one. They are competitively priced and provide a very highquality product. What sets them apart is their customer service and the office staff are superb… the team were fantastic too, again helping me get the best result. Very, very highly recommended.”