BH Living Autumn 2024

SOUTHBOURNE BEACH & WESTBOURNE TOWER CARE HOMES

Live Safe & Well

Southbourne Beach and Westbourne Tower offer a safe and supportive environment where residents can flourish, make new friends, remain part of their local communities and live a life of possibility.

Residential, nursing, dementia and respite care • Highly trained staff teams

Nutritionally balanced seasonal menus • Spacious, beautifully decorated bedrooms Stimulating schedule of daily activities and entertainment

Southbourne Beach 01202 036897

Westbourne Tower 01202 036896

Southbourne Beach, BH6 3DS | Westbourne Tower, BH4 9DR

Welcome

Hello readers,

As I write, hundreds of young people are making their way back to BCP (or perhaps venturing here for the very first time) as they start another year of studies. I’ve seen mattresses and standard lamps and students still dressed in pyjamas with suitcases in tow, making their way past our offices in Winton as they seek out their latest ’digs’.

We’re very fortunate to have some excellent colleges and universities in Bournemouth and Poole, with many courses centring around the creative industries. Bournemouth University is one of the country’s leading providers of media courses and of course we have Arts University Bournemouth, another leading provider of higher education focussed around the arts.

I wonder what your first impression is when you hear someone mention the word ‘art’? For many, we’d imagine a famous painting such as ‘The Mona Lisa’ and imagine that to appreciate art, we’d need to visit a gallery. And yet most of us encounter art everyday, often without realising it. So in this edition, we’re looking at how art impacts the lives of those living in BCP more than we might imagine. Take a look at our special feature on page 14 and perhaps it may inspire you, like it did me, to venture out and appreciate art in our area in all its forms.

Talking of ‘venturing out’ I’m sure many of us have found ourselves in a seemingly neverending traffic jam when we’ve ‘ventured out’ in our area recently, especially over the summer months. Did you know that BCP is the 10th most congested place in the UK? Find out more on page 20 about how Dorset & BCP Councils are planning to transform the way we all ‘do’ travel over the coming years, to help ease congestion and improve the environment.

As usual, we’ve got plenty to inform, provoke and entertain in this edition including our popular ‘What’s on’ pages starting on page 16 showcasing just a few of the events happening locally. So the evenings might be drawing in but there’s still no excuse for staying in – dig out those long lost scarves and hats and embrace autumn in BCP! In fact I’m off for a walk in our local park to find some conkers – apparently someone told me that placing one in each corner of the room, keeps the seasonally large spiders away. I’ve never been able to verify it and it sounds like an old wives tale to me but think the conker hunting will be fun if nothing else.

Whatever you get up to this Autumn, keep safe and warm and I’ll speak to you in the next edition, when there will be plenty of ideas and inspiration for the Christmas season (it’s less than 90 days away by the time you get this magazine).

Jason Harris

BH Living Magazine, both in print and electronically, is produced, published and distributed by IMS Group who are an independent magazine publisher with no affiliation to any council or political party. All views and comments expressed in editorial content or by advertisers do not necessarily reflect views of the IMS Group.

BH Living is distributed door-to-door in Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole to over 170,000 households. It can also be found at selected pick-up points across the three towns or downloaded at www.bhliving.co.uk

All content is copyrighted by IMS Group and may not be used or reproduced wholly or in part without the written consent of IMS Ltd.

Contents

4-9 Local News

10-12 Business News

14-15 Art is all around us

16-17 Things to do for families 18 Women’s safety 20-22 Transforming Travel in BCP

Town centres in decline? 26-27 Local History: The Sandbanks Ferry

Book Review 30 What’s on in BCP

Published & Produced by: IMS Group

Distributed by: IMS Group

Editor: Jason Harris

Editorial Assistant: Sam Walters

Graphic Design: Dan Bartlett

For editorial enquiries contact: editor@bhliving.co.uk

For advertising enquiries contact: sales@ims-group.co.uk

Major infrastructure improvements planned to commence in Poole and neighbouring boroughs.

Work on a major investment in bus, walking, cycling and road improvements including resurfacing along the A3049/ B3068 Ringwood Road in Poole, between Hunt Road and Mountbatten Roundabout began earlier in September.

Funded by a £17.5 million grant secured from central government’s Transforming Cities Fund, Ringwood Road will benefit from a range of upgrades to improve safety, encourage active travel and reduce traffic congestion according to BCP Council.

The planned improvements include two new bus lanes, 23 side road junction enhancements, the reconstruction of Sea View Road junction, upgraded bus stop shelters at 19 locations, 4.5km of road resurfacing and 1.8km of improved pavements. A new 2.7km two-way cycle track will also be installed, along with new and/or improved toucan, zebra and parallel crossings.

The latest improvements will connect existing sustainable travel routes into Poole, Wallisdown, Talbot Woods and Bournemouth, with future plans for the route to link all the way to Ferndown and Wimborne. The initiative is part of BCP Council’s commitment to decarbonise its transport network by providing facilities to help meet its target of 50% of local journeys being made by walking, wheeling, cycling or public transport by 2030.

Councillor Andy Hadley, Portfolio Holder for Climate Response, Environment and Energy at BCP Council, said: “Ringwood Road in Poole is one of our region’s busiest roads with traffic volumes at saturation point. It’s a key travel route serving several business and retail parks,

two hospitals, Bournemouth University, Arts University Bournemouth, many primary and secondary schools and Poole town centre.

“These ambitious and major improvements will transform travel options and improve journeys for everyone, connecting people to key destinations through sustainable, modern infrastructure.

“The new bus lanes will help bus services run reliably and efficiently, and the new and improved walking, wheeling and cycling facilities will help children, students, the local workforce and residents travel to and from school, university, work and the town centre safely”.

Richard Wade, Morebus general manager, said: “We are excited by the prospect of this project being completed. It is testament to our excellent partnership with BCP Council, which has also led to route improvements, a new fleet of low emissions buses, and an increase in the number of passengers travelling with us across the region. Crucially, this latest initiative will give our buses priority over other traffic - much of which includes single occupancy vehicles. This, in turn, will help reduce congestion across our area”.

The work will be undertaken in phases to minimise disruption.

Construction started on 2 September with the entire programme of work expected to be completed in 2026

To find out if your area will be affected please head over to: www.transformingtravel.info/transforming-cities-fund/thesustainable-travel-network/poole-town-centre-to-ferndownand-wimborne/sea-view-road-to-mountbatten-roundabout

Dorset Nightstop awarded Hero of the Month for September

Youth homeless charity, Dorset Nightstop, has been named as ‘Hero of the Month’ by the homelessness Partnership BCP.

The charity provides safe, emergency accommodation for people aged 18-25 in BCP and Dorset. Young people who are at risk are placed with trained volunteer hosts to prevent them ending up on the streets.

With the increase strain on need, the charity is appealing for new volunteer hosts in the BCP area.

“Family breakdown is the biggest reason for young people experiencing homelessness in BCP to come to Nightstop,” explains Lynn Giles, Children’s Services Manager at Dorset Nightstop.

“Initially, we were only taking referrals from other services but people can now self-refer. We carefully consider everyone.” She added.

If you would like to join the team, contact: dorsetnightstop@actionforchildren.org.uk

If you believe a young person you know is experiencing homelessness, call 01202 525643 or visit: www.actionforchildren.org.uk/dorset

Dorset’s Largest mural completed

Arts University Bournemouth’s students designed and painted Dorset’s largest mural to celebrate the ‘Creatives of Dorset’.

The intention of the mural was to celebrate the ‘Creatives of Dorset’ by showcasing 15 local and varied creatives who have lived in, or have a connection, with the BCP area. It features

musician PJ Harvey and Stranger Things actress Millie Bobby Brown, known for their connections to the area.

It was opened by Bournemouth Mayor, Councillor George Farquhar and the Chairman of BCP Council, Councillor Lesley Dedman, acting ViceChancellor of AUB.

The mural was completed within five weeks by dedicated staff and students and directed by Bridie Cheeseman and Jake Williams from Studio Studio.

Lesley Dedman, Chairman of BCP Council said: “This beautiful artwork has transformed this whole area and has created a delightfully warm and colourful welcome into Bournemouth town centre.”

Lisa Mann, illustration course leader at AUB added: “We’re all very proud of this collaboration, this is what AUB is all about; working with stakeholders from our community and inspiring young people.”

The giant mural can be found under the Braidley Road flyover on the way into the town centre from Meyrick Park.

Application deadline for school places fast approaching

Working parent?

Most working parents or guardians can claim tax-fee childcare to help with breakfast club or after-school care or even to enjoy afterschool activities.

The Tax-free Childcare can be claimed by most working parents for children aged 0-11. If the child has a disability or special need the credits can be extended until the child is 17.

For every £8 you pay your childcare provider, the Government pays £2, up to £2,000 per child per year, or £4,000 if the child is disabled.

In order to qualify, the activity/care-provider or child-minder must be registered and recognised by the scheme. There are thousands of registered providers across the country.

To find out more, visit: www.gov.uk/tax-free-childcare

Welsh Male Voice Choir set to perform in Bournemouth to raise funds for cancer patients

The Ogmore Valley Male Voice Choir, a Welsh based choir, will perform at St. Peters Church on the 2nd of November to raise funds for the Dorset Cancer Care Foundation (DCCF).

Bournemouth mayor, George Farquhar said: “I received a wonderful message, saying the choir would be in our area and would be willing to perform to benefit a charity of my choice.”

The event will begin between 7-9pm, ticket price at £10 per person, including tea/coffee and cake.

Link for tickets: the-dorset-cancer-care-foundation. sumupstore.com/product/concert-by-ogmore-valleymale-voice-choir

For children starting school or moving up to Junior/middle school within the next year, applications need to be received by BCP Council no later than 15 January 2025. And if your child is planning on moving up to secondary school next September, applications need to be in by the 31st of October 2024.

Many schools are holding open days during the Autumn term giving children, parents or guardians the opportunity to visit, take a look at the facilities and meet some of the teaching staff and hear from the headteachers about the school’s ethos and vision.

Allowing your child to visit the school open day can sometimes help to give you insight into the things that maybe important to them and can really help to eliminate those first day jitters.

To see the full list of schools in the BCP area, head over to: www.fid.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/family-information-directory/directory/ schools-and-learning/schools-further-education

Everything you need to know about the application process can be found on BCP Council’s website: www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/schools-and-learning/school-admissions

A new Group Cycling experience is coming to Stokewood

Stokewood Leisure Centre in Bournemouth has seen an investment of £50k from BH Live to install a brand-new interactive Group Cycling experience.

The investment brought in 20 new, stationary, Technogym bikes as well as new class features.

The team released a statement saying: “Group Cycling is the perfect workout for those who love a challenge. Colours and on-screen visuals prompt participants to push themselves to improve their cadence and power as the Technogym™ bikes evaluate overall performance.”

Technogym is one of the world’s leading specialists in high-end sports equipment and digital technologies and can be found at Littledown, Pelhams and BH Live Active, Queen’s Park.

Rob Cunningham, Director of Leisure and Business Development at BH Live said: ““This investment reflects our continued commitment to improving community leisure centres for everyone and all levels of fitness.”

Activities are available via a BH Live active multisite membership or on a pay-as-you-go basis, also offering concessions for people on low income and discounted health and wellbeing programme for people living with long-term health conditions.

For further information, including class timetables, visit bhliveactive.org.uk/stokewood.

Free vape offer for Dorset smokers

Swap 2 Stop is nationwide campaign aimed at encouraging smokers to make the switch from smoking to vaping to improve their health.

If you’re an adult smoker with a BCP or Dorset Council postcode you can sign up for a free vape kit from LiveWell Dorset. Smokers are addicted to nicotine, not tobacco. It’s the tar and toxic chemicals produced in tobacco smoke that kills, so switching from smoking to vaping is a positive health move.

New Access Wellbeing hub in Boscombe declared open

A new Wellbeing hub in Boscombe has been declared open by the new Bournemouth East MP, Tom Hayes. The Access Wellbeing hub is the third hub to be opened in BCP.

Located on Palmerston Road, the hub offers free walk-ins with the aim of transforming mental health support in the area. The project is being managed by BCHA (Bournemouth Churches Housing Association) working in partnership with Help & Care, The Lantern Trust, NHS Dorset and Dorset HealthCare.

Lorraine Mealings, CEO of BCHA, said: ““Access Wellbeing Boscombe represents a landmark in the transformation of mental health support services across Dorset”.

Morad Margoum, Interim service director for Children, young people’s families, mental health and learning disabilities and Dorset Health Care, explained how this project was “as a result of four a year project seeking to help to transform mental health across primary care” adding that “The hub was the result of extensive consultation revealing that people can find it confusing when they’re trying to find the right mental health support”.

The hub is being supported through the NHS’s Long-Term Plan to transform community health services by providing quicker and easier access to local wellbeing.

Declaring the opening of the hub Bournemouth East’s MP, Tom Hayes said the facility was there to provide easy access to those in immediate need. He said: “Don’t listen to the stigma, stigma is there to create shame and it is my job, as an MP, to ensure there is things in place for people when they need it.”

The hub will be open 9:30am to 4:30pm Monday to Friday to offer support at point of need.

For more information head over to: www.dorsetaccesswellbeing.co.uk

The offer is strictly limited to one free vape kit per person and claims are monitored. If you live in a household that requires multiple vapes, call the LiveWell Dorset team on 0800 840 1628 for help to order.

Once you have signed up you will receive a voucher code to claim your free vape starter kit, including four weeks’ worth of liquids and atomisers, plus access to a support package from LiveWell Dorset including a quit smoking app and online coaching.

To claim your kit, visit livewelldorset.co.uk and click the yellow vape button at the top of the page.

Sam Walters Photography

Tom Hayes, MP for Bournemouth East, and Lorraine Mealings, CEO at BCHA and Rachel Small, Interim Chief Operating Officer at Dorset HealthCare University NHS Foundation Trust, cut the ribbon to declare Access Wellbeing Boscombe open

Pamela Raith Photography

Bournemouth dance show that is making people with dyslexia feel “overwhelmed with relief and understanding”

Pavilion Dance South West are performing an honest and heart felt showcase of the struggles of suffering with dyslexia through the medium of dance. Little Murmur is a depiction of creator Aakash Odedra’s own experience of dyslexia.

Mr Odedra is a classically trained Indian dancer and created Little Murmur to raise awareness of the struggle dyslexia can imposes on a person’s life. The production is aimed for anyone over the age of 7 and explores the reality of living in a world can be a struggle to process, combining visual design and technology with dance and humour.

“I sat in the theatre and just sobbed on more than one occasion in the performance. I felt just overwhelmed with relief and the understanding that I not alone in my experience.” Stated one audience member. (Pull quote)

The production is set to begin its UK tour on the 7th October, starting in Plymouth and ending in Bristol on the 2nd of November, with the tour making its way to Pavilion Dance South West on the 26th of October.

For more info on ticket prices and timings, head over to: www.pdsw.org. uk/whats-on/little-murmur-by-aakash-odedra-company/

To find out more about the uses of therapy through art in the BCP area, head over to page 14

LES Mills BODYCOMBAT celebrates with free mega fitness event at BIC

Les Mills BODYCOMBAT celebrates its 100th release with two free supersized fitness classes at the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC). The event will take place on the 28th of September 9am-12pm and is suitable for people aged 14 and older.

It is organised by BH Live and as well as the fitness event they will also be supporting Macmillan Caring, a local hospice charity.

Rob Cunningham, Director of Leisure and Business Development said: “We’re delighted to celebrate 100 releases of Les Mills™ BODYCOMBAT and encourage more people to try this new fitness routine.”

To book your tickets. Head over to: bhliveactive.org.uk

Governments ‘Improvement Notice’ lifted from BCP Council

BCP Council has been given a clean bill of health after the Government lifted a notice of previously raised concerns.

The Best Value Notice was issued in August of 2023 which stated concerns about the governing, culture and finance of the Council. It was issued after the Council requested a capitalisation direction to aid in an in-year budget gap they found in 2022.

The Council later found out the request was not needed as they began to sell off assets to pay off the £20m gap. Despite the accumulation of funds, the Government commissioned a governance review to ensure everything was running smoothly.

This review followed a previous ‘assurance review’ carried out by the Council’s Chief Executive. Graham Farrant. Significant progress has been noted, meeting the concerns outlined in the notice.

Mr Farrant said: “We are delighted that the Government has recognised the hard work, effort and focus it has taken from everyone at the council to get to this position and it is testament to that joint effort that the Best Value Notice has now been lifted.”

Mayor unveils luxury care home near Sandbanks

residential

Scores of people turned out to see Cllr Pete Miles assist with the official launch of Marjorie House, on Crichel Mount Road, alongside Chris Kean, Chair of Care South, and Simon Bird, CEO of Care South. Marjorie House is owned and operated by Poole-based not-for-profit charity, Care South.

Afterwards, guests enjoyed drinks and canapes as they took a tour of the facilities at the home, which includes 50 ensuite, fully-furnished bedrooms in a variety of sizes, styles and with beautiful views across Poole Harbour towards Brownsea Island.

Cllr Pete Miles, the Mayor of Poole, said: “Marjorie House is just fabulous. It’s really nice. I love the concept and the Art Deco style of the building, which is in-keeping with the style of homes in Sandbanks. It’s a wonderful care home and it will be a very special place for the residents to live in.”

The Mayor of Poole helped to cut the ribbon on a new

care home near Sandbanks with views over Poole Harbour and Brownsea Island.

The Mayor of Poole cuts the ribbon on Marjorie House care home in Poole

“Voiceless, Unheard and Socially Excluded” New Report highlights how

vulnerable

people are being excluded from healthcare

A recent Healthwatch Dorset report has highlighted an urgent need for improvements in health and social care for people who are homeless or living vulnerably.

The report has described how some people in our society are being socially excluded and who typically experience multiple interacting risk factors for poor health, such as: stigma, discrimination, poverty, violence and complex trauma.

“There is no accountability for people who are dying on the streets” said one user at the ‘Fusion Service’ run by St. Mungo’s

Healthwatch Dorset arranged to visit local health, community and homeless support services across Bournemouth to speak to directly to clients who are experiencing homelessness or are vulnerably housed, as well as the health professionals and workers who support them to identify where the black hole is coming from.

Some of the problem’s individuals claimed they were facing were:

• No fixed address or ID: People are still being refused access to GP services because they do not have a fixed address or ID.

• Digitally excluded: People are unable to complete an eConsult form online as they are digitally excluded meaning they have limited or no access to the technology or have the credit required on their devices, and/or some people lack the knowledge or confidence to use online systems.

• Cost of phone calls: People are unable to access GP services by phone because the waiting time in the queue is so long and they don’t have enough credit on their phone.

• Mobility issues are a barrier: Many of the people the survey spoke to have health conditions such as infected leg ulcers and are unable to walk to a GP surgery.

• Transport is a barrier: People are unable to get to hospital or a GP because they don’t have the bus fare and it is too far for them to walk.

• Being organised can be a challenge: People who are in active addiction often live chaotic lives and have no means of writing an appointment in a diary or calendar, so appointments get missed.

• Not comfortable in healthcare settings: People feel like they are being judged in health care settings. They are conscious of their appearance and hygiene, so sitting in a waiting room feels uncomfortable.

The investigation came after a Pathway report was released stating that the average age of death for people experiencing long term rough sleeping is just 46 for men and 42 for women.

Visit www.pathway.org.uk/2024/03/18/astatement-from-the-faculty-for-homelessand-inclusion-health-14-march-2024/ for more info

The report is calling for authorities and organisations to step up and provide solutions to help fill the gap. One such charitable organisation operating in the BCP area doing just that is ‘The Healthbus’ Healthbus helps fill the void

HealthBus is an award-winning charity who provide critical healthcare services directly to people experiencing homelessness and is one of very few vital links between the streets and mainstream services. They provide GP and nursing services for homeless individuals aged 18 and over.

One rough sleeper, Dean, who has used the Healthbus said: “No one sets out to be purposefully on the streets … sometimes you face situations which just leave you broken and desperate. After losing my job, home and key relationships my mental health deteriorated; and I resorted to harmful substances which drove me to the streets. After lots of encouragement from visiting health professionals, I have found hope and compassion from those involved with the HealthBus. This service is a lifeline! A muchneeded refuge for those who are vulnerable. The staff and team involved with the HealthBus have saved and are saving lives … this work must continue!”

Commenting on the recent report Healthbus Chairman Christopher Wakefield said: “We are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to this report, especially our patients, whose open and honest conversations made this possible and highlighted the problems many of them have faced in silence,”

If you are homeless and need help with a health related problem, you can contact The healthbus by visiting: www.healthbus.co.uk or emailing: kate@healthbus.co.uk (you can get free access to the internet in local libraries).

To support the charity either by volunteering, fundraising or donating, visit: www.healthbus. co.uk/home/support-us/

Information links

• HealthBus webpage: healthbus.co.uk

• HealthWatch Webpage: healthwatchdorset.co.uk/

Healthbus is offering point of need care for homeless people in an effort to close up the gap of health and social care for our most vulnerable people.

The cost of phone calls and lack of access to the internet are significant barriers to the vulnerable in trying to access healthcare

Business as a Force for Good

Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) are holding a day long conference this October exploring how being a force for good is no longer just good for society, but a smart business strategy.

The day-long conference includes inspirational panels, spotlight speakers and plenty of time for Q&As and networking. Discover the rationale, insights, approach and realities on becoming more purpose-led in your organisation.

The event will be hosted by broadcaster Declan Curry, with keynotes from the world-leading speaker, changemaker and climate change consultant, Benita Matofska, and the political strategist, leading policy-maker and president of The Jobs Foundation, Lord Matthew Elliott.

Four panels, made up of experts, leaders and influencers in their specialists will share their experience and insights, as well as spotlight sessions. Including;

• Why be a force for good? Embedding Environmental and Social Responsibility for Growth

• Sustainable Business: Where Profits and Planet Align

• Business as a problem solver: Leadership – innovation – Ethics

• Gen Z – Alpha and Beyond: Their future in our hands

The event begins at 8.30am for registration, coffee and pastries. During the day, delegates will enjoy coffee and refreshments and a two course buffet lunch with hot and cold options. The event will close by 4.30pm.

If you would like to be added to the Car Sharing List for this event, please email Kat on events@dorsetchamber.co.uk stating where you will be travelling from.

For more information or to book your place visit: www.dorsetchamber.co.uk/ event/dorset-business-festival-conference/

BCP Council offer fully funded events to help local businesses prosper and thrive

New Milton school offers support to parents following the new Government’s decision to apply VAT to school fees.

Ballard School in New Milton released a statement notifying parents that they will be supported through the VAT taxation on school fees.

This news comes after new Labour Government announced a 20% VAT Tax on “Private Schools” starting from January 2025. The school has stated that they will absorb the cost fully up until September 2025.

They claim that the Spring and Summer term fees of 2025 will remain the same as Autumn term fess. The school has also stated that they are hopeful that they have the ability to limit the overall impact on parents, anticipating it will be able to cover 4% of the VAT through claiming back the VAT on goods and services.

Andrew McCleave, Headmaster of Ballard said: “Careful financial management and planning from the school’s Board of Governors and Leadership Team over a number of years means the school is in a strong financial position which has enabled us to support our community in this way.”

Mr McCleave realises for some families, sending their child to Ballard can be a tough choice and is determined to help families through this.

Poole based Evolve and BCP Council have teamed up to bring local businesses free business support workshops and events this Autumn.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale and develop your business, the workshops, exclusively available to BCP based businesses, are designed to support you at every stage of your journey. Upcoming events and sessions include:

Developing a High Performing Team

9 October, 12noon until 1pm

This event is ideal for leaders and managers looking to balance productivity and profitability whilst maintaining a strong and positive culture in their organisation.

Idea to Income (online)

10 October,12.30pm until 1.30pm

This session will give you the knowledge and confidence to take the next steps towards starting your business. Whether you’re just beginning or ready to take things to the next level, this session will help you turn your idea into income.

Finance for Start-ups

16 October, 12noon until 1pm

This session aims to help you get the knowledge to secure funding, manage your money wisely, and plan for your business’s growth. This will give you a strong foundation to build a successful start-up.

To find out more or register for the free courses go to: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/idea-to-income-tickets-999295960117

Vaccinating Dorset

Vaccinations save lives. They are as important as clean water for keeping us healthy and the NHS vaccination programme is a world leader, designed to protect us throughout our lives.

With so many vaccinations available, it can be hard to keep track of whether you, or someone you care for, needs one.

Check out the website today: staywelldorset.nhs.uk/vaccinations

Thank you. By staying on track with your vaccinations, you’re protecting yourself and your community.

Scan to find out more

Stay protected, stay informed. Check out our new vaccination webpage.

GIVE YOURSELF A Schoolage vaccinations

Flu and COVID-19 THIS AUTUMN AND WINTER

Vaccinations available from:

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination for pregnant women (from 28 weeks of pregnancy) and people over 75

Flu vaccinations are available for pregnant women and children

Flu and COVID-19 vaccinations are available for other eligible people

SEP 1 1 3 SEP OCT

BCP council unveils new website for ‘better user experience’

Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole (BCP) Council has enhanced its existing website’s accessibility and user experience, helping to future-proof its online presence for visitors by working with Midlands based ‘Zengenti’, creators of the headless content management system (CMS) Contensis,

BCP Council’s new website has achieved an accessibility ranking of 99%, reflecting their commitment to inclusivity for all users, regardless of their ability or device.

The updated BCP Council website has made finding key services online easier and faster for residents than calling the council’s services directly. The site offers a wide range of services and information for local users, including council tax support, information about waste management, and important school admissions.

Feedback from the previous website indicated that the structure was unclear, navigation and information discovery were difficult, and the outdated design no longer reflected the council’s modern identity.

Since undertaking the digital transformation, the new website has been filled with valuable content, such as library maps, consistent car park information, bin day collections and userfriendly elements like custom alerts and contact cards.

Lewis Tobia, web manager at Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole Council, said:

“BCP Council’s vision is where people, nature, coast and towns come together in sustainable, safe and healthy communities. To achieve this we understand that we need a modern, accessible and innovative website. Our work with Zengenti has provided a significant step in providing a platform for our digital front door where our online services are accessible to residents, businesses, partners and visitors.

Contensis is currently used by 32 councils across the UK, in addition to more than 20 universities.

New incident reporting technology to be introduced to Poole Town Centre

The Poole BID plan on introducing new incident reporting systems, SentrySIS, in a major step to enhance local safety and security.

During their monthly networking event designed to bring together local businesses, Poole BID have stated they will be focusing on the introduction of a new reporting system, SentrySIS.

The idea is in partnership with Jack Ferns from UK Partners Against Crime (UKPAC) as their delivery partner.

Jacqui Rock, Poole BID Lead commented: “SentrySIS is a digital incident management and reporting system designed to help local businesses and organisations effectively track, report, and manage crime and antisocial behaviour in real time.”

The system will be used by Poole BID with collaboration with Coastal BID and Town Centre BID in Bournemouth, as well as Dorset Police, the Police Crime Commissioner, BCP Council and other crime partnerships across the conurbation.

Businesses or individuals can report incidents (e.g., theft, vandalism, suspicious activity) through an easy-to-use online platform or mobile app.

The system allows the submission of detailed reports, including descriptions, times, dates, and even photos or videos of the incident.

When an incident is reported, it can trigger real-time alerts to other local businesses, law enforcement agencies, or relevant partners. This creates an immediate, collaborative response to emerging threats or issues.

Though this plan is focusing on the safety of everyone in the BCP area, head over to page 18 to find out more about the threat girls and young women are facing.

For more information

towncentrebid.co.uk/against-business-crime/ uk-pac.com/ sentrysis.com/

Hendy’s secure a fifth and consecutive year as sponsor for the cherries

Hendy Group celebrates its 165th birthday by securing AFC Bournemouth sponsorships for the 2024/25 season.

This investment will support a programme of activity that encompasses AFC Bournemouth’s digital media content, including ‘Moment of the Match’.

Andy Grant, Head of Brand Performance for JLR at Hendy Group said: “A key part of our strategy is to foster strong ties with local communities, and we’re proud to support a major football club that shares that same ethos.”

He added that with helping AFC Bournemouth it will engage thousands of people across the South East.

Rob Mitchell, Commercial Director at AFC Bournemouth said: “We’re delighted to continue our partnership with Hendy Group, and we have a long-standing relationship with the local firm.”

Art is all around us

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole are becoming magnets for art. Art has become such a multi-faceted term that it can leave some feeling quite confused about exactly what Art is and what it’s all about.

If you were to ask someone the question: “what is art?”, a common response would possibly be something like: “It’s an upperclass form of enjoyment” or “It’s something you’d go to view in a gallery or museum”.

However, over recent times, art has become more mainstream and something everyone can enjoy. Whoever thought that graffiti would become an art form and yet many now flock to obscure and unannounced locations just to view Banksy’s latest creation?

Art is truly everywhere and BCP is home to many art initiatives. From the annual Arts by the Sea Festival, to establishments like Wave Arts Education Agency to even theatrical art and therapeutic art, BCP really does hold a spot as a place of creative collectives.

Therapeutic Art Visual Art

Art over the years has been a tool many have used to support and express their emotions. However, many may be surprised to believe that it is an accredited form of therapy.

In 1942, art therapy became a formal practice, originating in Europe, with the term being attributed by British artist, Adrian Hill.

Untapped Art Therapy & The Water Lilly Project

In Bournemouth, Untapped Art Therapy offer group or individual sessions with art firmly at its heart.

They set out to reduce mental health crisis and increase access to quality mental health support.

Alongside mental health coaching, Untapped Art Therapy hosts Art Battles in Bournemouth to give individuals the opportunity to both have their work showcased and gain the experience of working alongside other creatives. Skills that are greatly needed in the industry.

To find out more, visit: untapped.org.uk

Another example of art therapy in the BCP area is the ‘Water Lilly Project’.

They offer support to women going through crisis, be it temporary problems or even worse long-term events and offer classes from craft through to ‘Art Therapy’. Already 123 women have been helped.

As well as supporting individuals they also offer practical help and even run a Community café on Barrack Road where customers can see samples of art on display.

To find out more, visit: waterlilyproject.org.uk/

But some would wonder, how can art be used to help people work through their problems?

Some find it difficult to talk about their problems but comfortable showing how they feel through art, giving that person an outlet that could help them and others understand their feelings.

Visual Art encompasses art forms such as painting, crafts, sculptures and anything that has been physically created by an artist. Even within this category, there are so many sub-categories. For instance, photography, body art and even food art all fall under the ‘Visual Art’ category.

Wave Arts Education Agency believe that the arts should be taught at a young age so that young people know the different options that are available and develop their skills and talents at an earlier point in their lives so that latent talent doesn’t go undiscovered.

The Agency works closely with schools and students giving young people opportunities to express themselves.

A similar organisation, BEAF Arts Co, offer support and training for those trying to get a job within the arts.

For many artistic people, the making of the art is the simplest part. However, it’s getting the exposure that tends to be the most difficult part. With BEAF, it offers projects and group discussions to ensure people have the same opportunities and chance to show off their work.

Alongside any projects, BEAF host a festival to showcase the work developed throughout the year to help support our diverse communities.

For more info, visit: gotbeaf.co.uk/

Arts by the Sea ARTS BCP AREA IN THE

Arts by the Sea is a highly anticipated arts festival which takes place every September across the BCP area.

This year’s festival takes place 27 - 29 September, with the main theme being ‘Taste’.

This free event is a pillar of diversity in all forms of art from music, street theatre, sculpturing and many more.

The critically acclaimed festival received multiple awars over the last few years and continues to grow both in size and popularity.

For more info, visit: artsbythesea.co.uk/

Theatrical art holds a strong foothold in BCP. For Pavilion Dance South West, dance is a passion with the centre well known for its diverse range of dance from traditional Ballroom or Latin to up-tempo street-dancing.

Dance by its very nature is emotive, so movement becomes the voice of what the individual may be feeling. At PDSW there’s a strong belief that a person should be able to enjoy dancing no matter their ability. Anyone can dance even if you consider you have two left feet. There is almost certainly a style or expression of dance that will suit you.

There are also considerable health benefits to this particular art form, both mentally and physically.

To find out more, visit: www.pdsw.org.uk/

To also find out about a dyslexia awareness performance taking place at Pavilion Dance South West, head over to page 8

Another venue well-known for offering a diverse programme of art in music and theatre is Lighthouse Poole.

The venue often showcases less well-known forms of theatrical art including acts such as The Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers who’s unique form of art originated in the Far East. Also on the Autumn billing is a ‘dementia friendly’ screening of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang – bringing art to those who might struggle to access it normally.

Lighthouse Poole is also home to the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra considered by many as one of the finest orchestras in the UK.

by Sam Walters

To find out more, visit: www.lighthousepoole.co.uk/

Are you a budding artist or organisation looking for arts funding?

The Arts Council England offer many grants and funds that can support businesses, local authorities, galleries and museums and enable individuals to find their place within the arts.

For more information on the role of The Arts Council, head over to www.artscouncil.org.uk/

BEAF Visualisation - John Saborido

Evanescent

Autumn Family Fun

WHAT’S ON IN BCP

Youth Volunteering

The group meets once a month to get involved with fun outdoor activities, followed by an opportunity for you to lend us your voice and thoughts in our feedback session around the campfire, and get involved in organising youth events at the Country Park. Boost your CV, gain volunteering hours, learn new skills, meet new people and get outdoors! (snacks provided!). Ages between 13 and 17.

Date: Last Saturday of every month

Time: 1.00pm – 3.00pm

Price: Free

Location:

Education Centre, Upton Country Park

More Info: uptoncountrypark@bcpcouncil.gov.uk

Poole Parkrun

A free, fun, and friendly weekly 5k community event. Walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate –it’s up to you!

Date: Every Saturday

Time: 9:00am Price: Free

Location: Poole Park

Arts by the Sea Festival

Explore the variety of forms of art this Autumn with work showcasing the colourful and creative nature that is Bournemouth and its surrounding area. With sculptures, circus performances, theatrical performances and many more, you simply can’t get bored.

Date: 27/9/24 – 29/9/24

Time: 11:00am – 5:00pm

Price: Free Location: Bouremouth beach

Fungi Foray

Be entertained by intriguing fungi tales as you wander through the woodland. At this time of year, there is usually an array of unusual fungi that emerges from the undergrowth. Afterwards, enjoy some tasty mushrooms on toast and a hot beverage to warm your toes in our harbour-fronted café. Then it’s back on the National Trust vessel to Sandbanks.

Date: 28/9/24 & 12/10/24

Time: 7:30am – 11:00am

Price: £32 (adult), £16 (child)

Location:

Sandbanks jetty, ferry to Brownsea Island

More Info: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/

‘Fox & Cubs’ dads and kids activity sessions

Find out more about the nature on your doorstep by getting active and creative at our monthly Fox and Cubs Club sessions, designed for Dads and Kids to spend some quality time together in the great outdoors (Mums also welcome!)

Date: starting at the 28/9/24 then last Saturday of every month

Time: 10:00am – 11:30am

Price: £4 per child

(Accompanying adult go free)

Location: The Education Centre, Upton Country Park

More Info: uptoncountrypark.com/events/

Holt Forest Guided Walk

A walk through the medieval woodland of Holt Forest to discover a range of veteran trees. On this walk you will take in the heathland and forest of Holt Heath national nature reserve. Within the forest you will be joined by a National Trust Ranger. The journey is 4.5 miles long taking approximately 3hrs to complete.

Date: 1/10/24 Time: 10:00am – 1:00pm

Price: £3 Location: Kingston Lacy

More info: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/

Ringwood 999 Day

Join the team from Ringwood Fire Station and other emergency services for a day of fun activities. See displays, meet firemen and women and sit in the working vehicles. Food and drink stalls also available.

Date: 5/10/24 Time: 10am – 4pm

Price: Free

Location: Carvers Recreation Ground, Ringwood

Taylor Swift Tribute Brunch

A magical day is promised with ‘fun, food and endless Swiftie vibes’. 60 minute live show for one of the leading Taylor Swift tributes. Cocktails and mocktails on offer with a special menu for under 14s.

Date: 5/10/24 Time: Midday

Price: from £40 for children, £60 for adults (includes all food and drink)

Location: Captain’s Club Hotel, Wick Lane, Christchurch

More Info: www.captainsclubhotel.com

International Football –

England U21 v Ukraine U21

UEFA Euro under 21 championship qualifier match. Watch the three lions in action and spot the stars of tomorrow playing right here at AFC Bournemouth’s Vitality Stadium

Date: 11/10/24 Time: 19:45

Price: From £15 for adults, £7.50 for children

Location: Dean Court/Vitality Stadium, Kings Park, Bournemouth

More Info: www.englandfootball.com

Run Bournemouth Junior 2K

A great experience for young aspiring runners. With a distance of 2K your child can have the perfect insight to the world of running. Aimed for children aged 9-12 years.

Date: 12/10/24

Time: 2:00pm

Price: Free

Location:Bournemouth PierApproach

More Info: www.runbournemouth.com/junior2k

October Half Term at Highcliffe Castle

Celebrate the half term with your little ones at Highcliffe castle. Walk along the pumpkin trail and carve, design and colour your very own pumpkin.

Date: 27/10/24 – 3/11/24

Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm

Location: Highcliffe Castle

Price: free - £20 (50% off admissions day on the 30th of October. 10:00am – 3:00pm) More info: www.highcliffecastle.co.uk/events

Kids Winter Art Workshops

Aimed at children 7-12 yrs old who love to be imaginative and inspired by art deom Autumn wreath making to wooden pumpkin decorating, if your child is crafty there is sure to be something equally crafty for them to do.

Date: 5/10/24 / 29/10/24 / 31/10/24

Time: 10am

Price: £12 per person including 2 pieces of art to take home plus drink+snack

Location: Sobo Beach

More info: Booking essential. Email: krigekaren@gmail.com

Half term activities –Crafts at Russell Cotes

Need something to do during this half term? Head over to Russell Cotes Arts Museum and try your hand at some spooky crafts or take stroll around the grounds of this historic museum.

Date: 30/10/24 – 31/10/24

Time: 10:30am – 2:30pm

Price: £4.50 per child

Location: Russel Cotes Arts Museum

More info: russellcotes.com/event/half-term/

Fireworks

Remember remember the 5th of November. Celebrate Bonfire night with a free Firework display on Poole Quay.

Date: 5/11/24 Time: 17:00pm

Price: Free

Location: Poole Quay

More Info: https://www.bournemouth.co.uk/ whats-on/november-5th-fireworks-p2461083

Banger Racing – The Rookie Banger Championship of The World

Over 200 drivers and their cars compete for the coveted championship at this 20th anniversary meeting. It’s expected to be a popular event so spectators are adviced to arrive at least an hour before the first race

Date: 9/11/24

Time: First race 18:00

Price: Tickets not on pre-sale.

On the day only: 14+ £25, 5-13yrs £10

Location: Matchams Raceway

The Polar Express

Do something magical this Christmas and ride along The Polar Express. With singing and dancing, why not enjoy the festive season with a warm cup of hot chocoloate and a cookie on your way from the North Pole.

Date: 23/11/24 – 24/12/24

Time(s): 15:30pm – 16:30pm, 17:30 – 18:30, 19:30 – 20:30

Price: from £39.95 +£2 booking fee

Location: Swanage Railway

Littledown Christmas Market

Celebrate in style at one of the biggest indoor markets in Dorset, back for 2024 with over 85 stalls! Christmas carols with Sing People Sing who will be performing alongside Dizzy and Giggles, the cheeky elves.

Date: 24/11/24

Time: 11:00am – 4:00pm

Location: Littledown Centre

More info: bhliveactive.org.uk/news/ littledown-celebrates-new-event-programmefor-2024

Christmas Lights Switch on in Christchurch

Enjoy family-friendly entertainment, live music and festive shopping in Christchurch later this month at the town council’s big Christmas lights‘switch on’event.

Date: 23/11/24

Time: 11:00am – 7:00pm

Price: Free

Location: Christchurch High Street

More Info: www.christchurchtc.gov.uk/2024/09/christchurch-christmaslights-switch-on/

Making BCP a safer place for women and girls

By Sam Walters

In a recent ‘State of Girls’ Rights’ in the UK 2024 report, published by Plan International, 93% of girls and young women said they don’t feel ‘completely safe’ in public areas.

Visit: plan-uk.org/state-of-girls-rights for the full report.

A recent high-profile cases including the recent case of Amie Gray, who sadly lost her life at Durley Chine in a knife attack have highlighted the vulnerability of women and girls in public places, especially at night. Although it could be argued that these instances are relatively rare, the startling fact remains that a woman is killed by a man every three days in the UK according to the NPCC.

Councillor Kieron Wilson, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Regulatory Services at BCP Council said: “Across the country, women and girls face situations where they feel unsafe or uncomfortable. For this reason, it is essential to promote safety for women and girls in public spaces, everywhere.”

BCP

Council launch initiative to crack down on violence

against females

BCP Council recently released a, ‘BCP Unity Promise’ - a promise that seeks to protect the safety of women and young girls. This promise sees a joint partnership with many establishments across the BCP area, organisations such as: Dorset Police, BCP Council’s Community Safety team, Bournemouth Town Centre Business Improvement District and local businesses.

As part of the pledge, businesses, particularly those in hospitality are given the tools and support to build a safer environment in their venues as well as the wider town centre.

The toolkit contains practical steps under the following seven commitments:

1. Champion – Appoint a named contact to champion and drive forward any actions taken.

2. Communicate – Create positive communications for both public and staff, online and in their spaces, to promote safety.

3. Support Staff – Develop routes for reporting unacceptable behaviour at work and support cultural change.

4. Support the Public – Establish routes for reporting unacceptable behaviour in their spaces.

5. Training: Responding – Provide staff training on how to respond, including what to say or do, what not to say or do, and any relevant business policies.

Two local initiatives that are helping promote safety for

women and girls

White Ribbon

This organisation is at the forefront of raising awareness of the issue as well as initiating proactive campaigns and education to help bring an end to violence against females.

On the 25th of November, the organisation is holding a ‘White Ribbon Day’ to bring attention to the harmful masculine norms that are resulting in the violence against women and young girls with Chief Executive of White ribbon UK, Anthea Sully saying: “We can end violence against women and girls together but we can’t do that without your support”.

To find out more about this event and see what you can do to help, head over to: www.whiteribbon.org.uk/wrd24

6. Training: Recording – Offer staff training on information sharing and appropriate recording of details.

7. Designing for Safety – Audit spaces and adapt them to promote a safer environment and reduce the risk of crime.

25 businesses and organisations have already joined the pledge.

Mark Balaam, White Ribbon Ambassador and CEO and Founder of imabi said: “The fact that more than 25 businesses and organisations in Bournemouth have already signed up to this initiative shows a strong commitment to tackling the safety issues facing women and girls in Dorset.”

“The partnership between local councils, the police, businesses, and community safety teams are essential for creating a safer environment around the clock.” He added

Footbus

Nicky Robinson, created ‘Footbus’, an app where Bournemouth University students can create routes with their friends so that they don’t have to walk on their own.

The app has now grown beyond University students and is used by members of the public too.

Nicky was inspired to create it after speaking to a BU student who confessed to her that every time she crossed the park near the campus after dark to get home, she would text her mum with what she was wearing just in case something happened. Nicky was shocked and embarked on her journey to create an app where women can walk together creating ‘safety in numbers’.

Download the app by searching ‘footbus’

Where to get help

For extra information head over to:

BCHA (www.bcha.org.uk/our-services/bcha-support/i-need-safety/)

The Shores Sexual Assault Referral Centre (www.the-shores.org.uk/#)

STARS Dorset (www.starsdorset.org/)

Soroptimist BCP (sigbi.org/bournemouth/)

Victim Support Dorset (www.victimsupport.org.uk/resources/dorset/)

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Over £100 million going towards making BCP transport greener

By Sam Walters & Jason Harris

BCP and Dorset Council have over recent years jointly been awarded over £100milion to push forward an initiative to improve travel and crackdown on congestion in the local area known as ‘South East Dorset’ which covers all of BCP plus the areas formerly known as East Dorset.

South East Dorset has seen high levels of congestion and the SED (South East Dorset areas containing Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch, Wareham, Upton, Corfe Mullen, Wimborne, Ferndown, West Moors and Verwood) was ranked 3rd most congested place in the UK and 56th most congested in the world, according to the Transforming Travel report published in 2021.

A new plan designed to transform the way we travel across South East Dorset

The aim for this initiative is to connect major housing, employment, education and retail centres via more eco-friendly means: through bus routes, cycle lanes, pedestrian footpaths and improving and way-finding facilities.

The plan also aims to support trip-end services such as: Beryl Bikes and scooters and car-sharing.

The aspiration is that eventually sustainable transport can become the first choice, enabling people to travel by cycling or walking by supporting pavement improvement, which also benefits people with mobility issues.

The plan gained the attention from central Government, granting £79million to local initiatives as part of the ‘Transforming Cities Fund’.

Local businesses and organisations such as Morebus, Beryl Bikes and Public Health Dorset have helped to add to the pot of money available for transport improvements to just over £100million.

The original plan was to utilise the funding for far-reaching changes.

And the problem is deteriorating further according to a 2023 Traffic Index report from leading SatNav developer TomTom which found that the average time it took to travel 10km in Bournemouth was 15mins and 50s – 10 seconds longer than the previous year’s travel time, ranking it the 10th slowest place to travel in the UK. Poole and Christchurch fared little better.

This level of congestion led to the birth of the Transforming Travel initiative to revolutionise travel in South East Dorset.

For many councils facing similar problems with rising traffic levels, the priority has been to encourage other forms of travel to help take cars off the road and ease our crowded roads. But efforts over the last decade have had only limited impact as our love affair with cars continues.

However, with rapidly rising costs in construction, labour and fuel costs as well as inflation and changes to national guidelines for cycling infrastructure, the plan had to be adapted to something which wouldn’t exceed the budget available.

With the realised limitations, locations were ear-marked for change which would still see significant impact and improvement on the areas long-term travel infrastructure.

Six sustainable travel routes were planned across the region. Some routes have already been completed such as: Canford Bottom Roundabout – brook Road, Upper Gardens (Bournemouth), Gravel Hill to Kington Lane in Poole and Wimborne Road in Ferndown. With others due to start shortly.

To find out if your local area is included in the plan and the extent of the development head over to: www.transformingtravel.info/ transforming-cities-fund/the-sustainable-travel-network.

As the plan continues through 2024 and 2025, the latest phase for major bus, walking, cycling and road improvements in Poole will take place on the 2nd of September with completion in Spring 2025.

See page 4 for further information.

The part buses have to play in achieving lower congestion in BCP

Utilising public transport is vital to ensure congestion levels are lowered. Due to this, South East Dorset public transport has seen an increase in funding through the Transforming Travel programme.

BCP Council, in partnership with local bus operators, was one of 16 areas awarded further funding over a three-year period from 2022, receiving £8.9 million to improve bus services.

With this sum of money, 150 bus shelters across BCP have been upgraded with brand new CCTV cameras as of August 2024.

These installations were put in place to lower anti-social behaviour and to make travelling on public transport safer.

As the push for more bus travel gathered pace, the previous Westminster Government and local Council initiatives capped return bus tickets at £4 and £2 for single trips to help incentivise the public. The idea being that taking public transport would work out cheaper than using a car.

Head over to the Morebus app to see what deals best suit you.

According to Government figures, it costs 17 pence per mile for an average car’s use of fuel. From Bournemouth town Centre to Poole and back is an estimated £2.38, along with a three-hour parking stay being £2.90 (mitigating traffic jams and other burners of fuel), the total cost of travel would come to £5.28.

Compared to a bus fare being £4.00 for a return fare, making bus travel much more cost effective.

These figures aren’t including the hidden costs of owning a vehicle with tax, insurance, maintenance and wear and tear either.

The bus effect

The positive effect of using the bus cannot be understated. One bus on a road could take up to 75 cars off of the road.

If everyone switched just one car journey a month to using a bus, there would be one billion fewer car journeys.

According to a University of Sussex report, travelling by bus can be a up to 33% less stressful than commuting by car which can also help productivity. The stress of being behind the wheel in a traffic jam is replaced with a good book or listening to some music while someone else does the driving for you.

Utilising our public transport also guarantees that the money spent can generate additional wealth and help to improve the travel infrastructure.

Bus commuters generate up to £65 billion towards the UK economy.

Why I’m using the bus

We hopped on various buses around BCP to find out what people thought of our local bus services and if some of the claims about buses being cheaper than cars was true.

Here’s a sample of just some of the comments we came across on our travels.

“With all of the free rides over 60-year olds get, I’m so grateful to be able to use the buses.” – Teresa

“We haven’t lived in the area that long, so its lovely to be able to find new ways of getting into the town centre, we just try to get on the bus as much as we can.” – Marianne and Tony

“It just gets you to where you want to go a bit quicker. The problem with parking and fuel, using the bus can be so much cheaper.”

– Sandra Smith

“There’s loads of transport around the area. You can never have too much. Buses sometimes opens up places that you would have never known about if you just travelled by car.” –Jason and Shannon

Cycling our way to a better future

Bikes have many redeeming qualities. They are not only good at helping to lower cholesterol but also at lowering the amount of congestion on the roads.

The Transforming Travel initiative have plans in place to foster in a more popular way of getting from A-to-B.

The Beryl Bike services has seen an influx of funding with 275 bikes at 50 Beryl bays in Christchurch and 122 bikes at over 50 bays in Wimborne, Colehill, West Parley, West Moors and Ferndown being installed.

How is the Transforming Travel initiative helping businesses be more eco-friendly

Local Businesses have seen grants between £500 - £20,000 being awarded to spend on workplace facilities.

This large sum is put in place to encourage employees to either cycle to work or adopt another sustainable form of transport.

A total of £70,000 was made available to businesses through the BCP and Dorset Council’s Transforming Cities Fund programme.

But whilst there are funds in place to encourage more cycling, for some people, the last time they rode a bike was perhaps a long time ago and the thought of travelling on a alongside car, lorries and buses, albeit on cycle paths some of the time, may seem a little daunting.

A Bournemouth school has been the first to try out a new Augmented Reality training tool presenting different cycling scenarios. The students are given a tablet to experience a 360-degree view to teach them common occurring cycling scenarios so that our younger people feel safer on the roads.

As well as training, schools across BCP received funding to promote eco-friendly travel.

21 schools have already been benefitted from a total of over £214,000 worthy of grants, roughly £20,000 each.

These new upgrades involve new lockable bike and scooter racks, electric bike chargers, shower, changing and locker facilities and even in some cases, road closures to make it safer for children to walk or cycle.

Though this plan helps the environment and helps the planet we all live on, we can also help ourselves. UK Gov found out that 1 in 6 deaths in the UK were due to physical inactivity.

It is said that we are 20% less active than in the 1960s and with the current trend, it seems we will be 35% less active by 2030.

With the prospect of cycling as a viable form of travel, we can help turnaround this alarming health decline – and in turn our straining NHS would probably be thankful for it.

“It’s not as cheap as it used to be, but with the costs of fuel when you use your own car, its just not worth it. So, using public transport can be a lot cheaper.” –Ann Oldham

“I take the buses through Poole and to University. it’s very efficient and handy with student discounts and with the ability to go to other towns like Swanage and other areas, it’s just perfect.”- Maram

if you don’t have a car you’re not isolated, you can use a bus, it can be a lot cheaper. With me studying here, I get to travel from my accommodation to the university easily.” – Nawaf

Way-finding

Totems being installed to help people adjust to the new change

For individuals that may be scared to step out of the comfort zone, there are plans in affect to support the first day cycling or walking jitters. For everyone, the fear of change can be quite a beast to overcome. However, new ‘way-finding totems’ are being newly built all over the conurbation to help with the conversion.

These totems display easy to read maps clearly showing routes to station, hospitals, car parks, retail centres, parks and any tourist or resident points of interest.

Back in 2021, as part of the Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership £21milion Port of Poole Local Growth Fund improvement programme began to start building within Poole and Christchurch with 20 totems each.

These totems also showcase possible sustainable routes and routes that have already been improved giving travellers the ability to do their part on improving our sustainable travel.

Are our town centres in long-term decline?

Over the last decade our local town centres, as we know them, have been under increasing threat. The numbers of people ‘in town’ has steadily declined and what were once bustling hives of activity now seem to be shadows of their former glory.

Causes are well documented; The popularity of online shopping, high-street banks closing, unaffordable rents, high business rates, an increase of anti-social activity and as the causes bite further, more businesses are forced to close and so the vicious circle goes on.

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole are not the only towns in the country whose town centres are facing challenging and uncertain times.

There is still hope for our town centres with the new incoming government promising reform of Business Rates to ‘level the playing

By Sam Walters

field’ between online and high street retailers. It remains to be seen whether this will mean raising taxes on online businesses or lowering Business Rates for offline businesses.

Also, with BCP being a popular tourism destination, there is opportunity to regenerate and redefine what our town centres look like as we take advantage of extra money that visitors put into our local economy along with the potential increased footfall that comes into our town centres.

High profile events such as The Air Festival and Arts by the Sea along with smaller events such as Poole’s ‘Seafood and Sounds’ undoubtedly bring in extra visitors but are they enough to sustain many of the businesses all year round?

So, what is the future of our town centres?

We travelled to Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole to see what local residents thought about our town centres and what, if anything they thought could be done to improve them.

Marianne and Tony, residents of Bournemouth said: “There are an awful lot of town centre’s that are closed or closing. I feel it’s [Bournemouth] quite scruffy, it’s not very smart. But they do keep the gardens tidy. The town just needs investment.”

Claire Justins, another resident of Bournemouth agrees. She said: “the real big issue is the [business] rates that are being placed on the shops in the area”. She shared that she worked around the area during the time Mark’s and Spencer’s closed in 2018, and added “seeing it still closed is just horrible”.

How can Bournemouth Town Centre be improved?

Mr and Mrs Jones, visiting the Bournemouth area said: “The gardens themselves are what brings tourists down. Mrs Jones suggested that “we just have to keep the environment as clean as possible in order to increase that foot traffic”.

Jason and Shannon were visiting Bournemouth from from Essex for a well needed retreat. After Shannon sustained an injury, resulting in her using a wheelchair, they opted for a ‘Staycation’ due to her not being able to fly.

She said: “there aren’t many places available for younger people that don’t involve going to bars and clubs”. She added: “I’ve looked at loads of restaurants and things like that but had to stop because it was just all stairs.”

They’re calling for places to be made more accessible for people with wheel chairs or for people simply with difficult mobility. Jason, her partner, came up with a suggestion saying: “Having more events in parks really does help with bringing people together.”

Having events was a recurring theme amongst many people we stopped and asked with many suggesting that larger open-aired spaces allow for more people to come and enjoy the area.

Holding more events would certainly help to increase footfall in the town helping existing struggling traders but the question still remains “what to do with the empty spaces from retail spaces that have already closed down?”

This was the question posed by Ann Oldham, who was travelling to see the sights of Bournemouth.

She said: “It’s a nice idea to do these pop-up events within closed down shops through the summer or Christmas, but then when it’s not on, it goes back to an empty shell. They just can’t sustain it.”

There seemed to be a common feeling that there needs to be a greater attraction of investment so that the small pop-up events can have longevity.

Many people commented that all the initiatives seemed ‘too temporary’ and there wasn’t a long-term plan.

Bournemouth – the good, the bad and the ugly

Picture by Sam Walters

Picture by Sam Walters

Picture by Sam Walters

Poole Town Centre – stuck in the past?

Whilst speaking to people around Poole town centre, many surprisingly commented that they felt Poole was too pedestrianised, suggesting that everything was quite spread out from the old high street through to the Dolphin Centre. Perhaps they could be more connected?

With the focus on making town centres better connected with public transport, buses have now become a main focus, but this has left some car owners feeling forgotten.

Speaking to Louise, a resident in Poole she said:“We need to reduce the costs for car parking There’s plenty of bus routes now, but seems to be a lack of affordable parking”She also shared the opinion that the town centre is seeing an increase in building closures, stating “there seems to more closed shops than open ones lately.”

Many also thought the bus station could do with improvement particularly as many are now being encouraged to take the bus.

Jack from Ferndown commented“Poole Bus Station has hardly changed since I came to Poole as a boy back in the 70s – it could do with some modernising!”

ChristchurchTown Centre

–"if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it"

Speaking to residents of Christchurch, many are claiming the centre has got the perfect balance of active and tranquil.

Jane, a resident in the area said:“I love it here, its brilliant. The cosiness of the area is what’s bringing in visitors”

Sonya and Robert have visited Christchurch for years and have loved coming down every time:“With the kids back in school, the older generation come down here to get away from the stress of the bigger areas”said Robert.

They suggest that the focus on over-developing town centres can also have a detrimental effect and deter potential clientele “We live in the countryside, so it’s nice to come here and see people and relax in this setting.”They added.

Whilst the idea of a peaceful Town Centre setting is appealing, local shops are still under threat in Christchurch with many having become charity shops as traditional retailers such as clothes and shoe shops have moved out. So, what could be done to help support the remaining businesses?

Consider

the needs of the future generations

Speaking to residents of different ages, there seemed to be a disconnection between the generations.

Craig has lived in Christchurch all of his life, but feels being part of the younger generation, he is slowly being forgotten.“There’s nothing to do here, there’s just too much of one-type of shop. It’s either cafes, charity shops or barber shops. What activities are there to do here?”he asks.

He also commented about feeling that he felt quite isolated in the town and that it felt quite disjointed,“You’ve got to have the structure in place, there’s not a lot of infrastructure here”

“We need to start focusing on the starting point. The way to keep the town centre going is to help support younger people to come and stay, putting money back into the place”Craig said. He believed that if there was affordable housing for the younger generation, they would be able to stay within the area and then spend their disposable income back into shops that are in dire need of it “But property is just so expensive – to buy or let, in Christchurch”

Amy, Christchurch resident and a mum of two young children said: “There’s not a lot for children to do apart from the leisure centre and even local events tend to have an older feel to them. My family tend to travel outside of the area to do family events”

The future seems uncertain to many

Many residents referred to the upcoming cinema and restaurants that have been proposed across the high street.

Residents shared that this new project would ensure an attraction in the area which seems to be lacking in the centre.

However, despite a flurry of news reports a few years ago, people are left unaware of its progress, believing that it will not now happen. There seemed to be a lack of trust amongst many we spoke to saying they are not sure what to believe anymore. Lack of decision-making from those responsible for regenerating the town centre were limiting the number of visitors.

Irene from Baiter Park said:“I’ve heard all sorts of plans but nothing ever happens so I guess nothing will change and we’ll have to put up with it, but I worry about the future if decisions are continually put off”

Most people seemed to be calling for more projects to be undertaken that will have an immediate effect on the area, rather than ideas in the distant future that seem to have no substance.

The role of BIDS in helping to improve Town Centres

When asking the public who they believed were responsible for helping and maintaining business development in our town centres, many thought it was the council’s job whilst others said they didn’t really know. Few were aware of the role BIDS played in the local Town Centre economy.

BIDs (Business Improvement Districts) are organisations usually funded by local traders who are responsible for increasing footfall in Town Centres and work with outside organisations and local authorities to encourage business and town centre development.

As a consequence, BIDS hold events and create strategies to help bring people into our town centres as well as enhancing the areas for the benefit of their levy-paying businesses.

In BCP, each town has their own BID with Bournemouth having two BIDS – one for the Town Centre and one for the coastal areas including the‘coastal villages’of places such as Westbourne or Southbourne.

The way they obtain their finance is through levy payments which they take from local businesses This is another cost to local businesses so the BIDS hold a big responsibility for making sure they use the payments they receive wisely to generate business for their members.

To find out more about the Local BIDS visit:

Bournemouth Town Centre BID: towncentrebid.co.uk

Bournemouth Coastal BID: coastalbid.co.uk Poole Town Centre BID: discoverpoole.com Christchurch Town Centre BID: www.christchurchbid.co.uk

Sam Walters Photography

From oars to chains: Looking back at The Sandbanks Ferry

With the Sandbanks Chain Ferry approaching its one hundredth birthday, BH Living looks back at its long history of serving both the local people of Bournemouth and Poole as well as thousands of tourists visiting the local area.

As far back as 1580 there were disputes over the ferry rights between North and South Haven. A ferry service had operated for centuries, long before the chain ferry. The first passengers were carried by rowing boat and later by motorboat. In 1905 suggestions were made that a transporter bridge should be constructed. This never happened. Further proposals were made by Frank Amman for a bridge in 1929, but this was opposed by Poole Borough Council and didn’t happen either.

Then in 1923 the Bournemouth – Swanage Motor Road and Ferry Company was set up by Frank Amman and his sons Gerard and Arthur. The first ferry came into service 3 years later in July 1926.

It was a small coal fired, steam driven ferry built by J Samuel White of Cowes, Isle of Wight at a cost of £12,000. The stone for the slipways and road foundations came from the nearby Isle of Purbeck. The ferry carried 15 cars each trip and in that first summer of 1926 carried a total of 100,000 passengers and 12,000 cars.

Hants and Dorset Bus Company began to use the ferry services on their Bournemouth to Swanage route in 1927. That very first ferry launched in 1926 stayed in service until 1952.

FERRY TOLLS - charabanc / omnibus

3s 0d motorlorry(under2tons)

3s 0d tractionengine(under5tons) 50s steamwagon(under2tons)

3s 0d motorcyclewithoperator 1s 6d

2s

engine, 2s steamwagonhaulingatrailer (under 2 ton)

War suspends ferry services

During the Second World War the whole area was taken over by the military and the ferry service was suspended for safety reasons as the area became used for military exercises.

The end of the second world war in 1945 opened up the possibility of the ferry service resuming again but before this could happen, the roads leading to the ferry had to be rebuilt because of damage caused by tanks and shells. The ferry service was eventually able to restart on 31st January 1946.

A new ferry was introduced in 1952 which, like the first ferry, was also steam driven but this one only held 8 cars which was far too small and so it was only in service for six years before being replaced in 1958.

The third ferry, introduced in 1958, was a diesel electric powered ferry which could carry 28 cars. It cost £100,000 and transported 650,000 vehicles per year and a million passengers.

Changes in ownership

In 1961 the Raglan Property Company took over the ferry service from the Amman family and the ferry service changed ownership again in 1983 when Silvermist Properties (owned by the Kean Family) took over. During this time the slipways were reconstructed and a new toll booth constructed.

The fourth ferry (the current ferry) came into service in 1994 and was named Bramble Bush Bay after a small bay located on the Shell Bay side where the houseboats are situated. The ferry was built by Richard Dunster of Hull and can take 48 cars (though 52 are possible). Even back in 1994 the cost of this ferry was £2.1 million. The chains which the ferry runs along are 1,235 feet long and cost £17,000 to be replaced. Replacement chains are installed every fifteen to eighteen months. The old chains are sold off as weights for lobster pots or boat moorings.

The crossing which usually takes 3 ½ minutes saves around 30-40 minutes and a 25-mile trip around Poole Harbour. The crossing is used regulalrly by The open-topped Purbeck Breezer buses who incorporate the ferry crossing in their routes to Swanage and The Purbecks.

In the past fares were collected on the ferry but nowadays they are collected at the purpose-built toll booths, though the fares are a little more than the original tolls charged back in 1926!

Our thanks to POOLE MARITIME TRUST for their invaluable help in compiling this article. The Trust has had its headquarters above the Canford Cliffs Library since the 1970s.

Their HQ houses several large collections, over 6,000 photographs and other images and access to thousands more. There are over 3,000 books on boats and information on the local area and their rooms are stacked with information on historic and modern-day maritime life including many models of sailing ships, paddle steamers, tugs, working boats and yachts.

A warm welcome is extended to any BH Living Readers who wish to find out more about the local area over a cup of tea and biscuits on Thursday mornings between 10am -12:30pm.

The HQ entrance is on the free car park side of the library. Look over the fence at the back of the new conservatory and you will see a sign to their front door – ‘PMT’(Poole Maritime Trust).

References:

G G Lambert - Gateway to the Purbecks: the history of Sandbanks Ferry from 1500 to the Present Day

Material in the Poole Maritime Trust Archive

Photos from Andrew Hawkes Collection and Poole Maritime Trust Archive

Schematic view of the chain path

Pickup extra copies of BH Living from one of our pickup points.

Out of the area or can’t wait for your next copy of BH living to come through your door? Or perhaps you have a relative or friend who’d appreciate a copy?

Our next edition is due to be delivered from the 12th December, but you can pick up advance copies from most libraries, including the ones listed below, and other local collection points from 7th December.

Hamworthy Library – Blandford Road, Poole BH15 4BG

Oakdale Library – Wimborne Road, Poole BH15 3EF

Dentistry at 68 – 68 Wimborne Road, Oakdale, Poole BH15 2BZ

Castlepoint Library – Castle Lane West, Bournemouth BH8 9UP

Christchurch Library – High Street, Christchurch BH23 1AW

Broadstone Library – 10 Story Lane, Broadstone Poole BH18 8EQ

Rossmore Library – Herbert Avenue, Poole BH12 4HR

Westbourne Library – Alum Chine Rd, Westbourne, Bournemouth BH4 8DX

Tuckton Library – Wick Lane, Southbourne, Bournemouth BH6 4LF

Charminster library – 4 Strouden Ave, Bournemouth BH8 9HT

Southbourne library – 118 Seabourne Rd, Pokesdown, Bournemouth BH5 2HY

Poole Library – Kingland Road, Poole BH15 1QE

Parley Optometrists – 127 New Road, West parley, Ferndown BH22 8EB

Christchurch Garage – 9 Somerford Rd, Christchurch BH23 3PH

Tivoli Theatre – 19 West Borough, Wimborne BH21 1LT

Queens Park Golf Club – Queens Park W Dr, Bournemouth BH8 9BY

IMS Group – 538 Wimborne Road, Winton, Bournemouth BH9 2EX

Join our Christmas hamper appeal and help put a smile on local families faces this December

This year BH Living are once again supporting the local Christmas Hamper Campaign by Bournemouth Foodbank and local churches to hopefully with your help deliver over 200 hampers to families in the local area and help them celebrate together.

On Monday 23nd December 2024, a fleet of volunteer drivers will take over 11,000 items to feed approximately 750 people. This is made possible thanks to an incredible amount of support from local charities, businesses, churches, statutory agencies and community groups.

Each hamper contained enough food and festive cheer to last a family for three days including a whole chicken, fresh vegetables, Christmas pudding and a £10 toy voucher. They also received a Christmas card with a message of hope at Christmas.

BH Living has pledged 200 boxes of chocolates (Similar to Lindt or Quality Street but must be 220gsm- 250gsm) and 300 tubs of gravy granules (similar to Bisto but must be 170gsm) and now we need our army of generous readers to help us reach our target before December 16th.

*Please note*

we need to keep to the sizes specified so that it will fit snugly in the hamper –any larger or smaller could cause problems for the hamper packers

Can you help?

If so, please drop in your donation of chocolates or gravy before the 16th December to: BH Living’s office c/o IMS Group at 538-542

Wimborne Road, Winton, Bournemouth BH9 2EX

For more information visit: www.bhliving.co.uk/hamperappeal2024 or email us at: newsdesk@bhliving.co.uk.

For more info on the Hamper appeal or to volunteer visit: www.hamperappeal.org/bournemouth

220gsm – 250gsm box of chocolates

170gsm gravy granules

The Christmas Bookshop Jenny Colgan

With the leaves drying up to a crisp autumn gold, ready to fall from the trees and a few recent ‘on the chilly side’ nights, my own and I am sure many others thoughts are now starting to turn towards Christmas. The run up to the festive season can mean many things to many people in many ways and for me, I like nothing more than curling up in my chair with a blanket and a Christmas book, even if it is October!

This review is a book I read last year, yet it’s so charming, I have remembered it all year and its definitely one to consider adding to your never ending ‘books to read’ list. This book has it all, Scottish charm, a love story and a quaint little Edinburgh bookshop all rolled in to one delightful festive tale.

We straightaway meet Carmen, in someways a troubled person who has little money, little love and now it seems, with the shop where she works closing down, no job. Distraught, and with the help of her mother, she turns to her sister Sofia, who by contrast has everything; a good job, a nice house, plenty of money and children. The two of them have never really got on well together but needs must -Carmen needs to live somewhere and so moves in with her sister and her husband and family.

Sophie it turns out has a problem client, Mr McCredie, a stubborn old man stuck in his ways with as much Christmas spirit as a burning log landing on your Christmas tree. She persuades Carmen to work her magic to try to save Mr McCredie’s business from certain collapse. Along the way Carmen meets two, on the face of it, adorable men: a student and a rock star. But can they, Carmens sister and Mr McCredie’s bookshop help turn Carmens Christmas into a memorable season of love and happiness?

This really is a heartwarming story that warms the cockles of your heart and transports you to a world of love, joy and happiness. An ideal Autumn read guaranteed to stir the Christmas spirit in even the hardest of hearts.

Sunday 29th September 7.30pm

Andy Parsons: Bafflingly Optimistic

Suitable for ages 14+. Tickets £17

Sunday 6th October 7.30pm

Most Haunted: The Stage Show Presented by Yvette Fielding. Suitable for ages 14+

Tickets £27.50

Tuesday 8th October 7.30pm

Sh!t-faced Shakespeare®: A Midsummer Night’s Dream OVER 16’S ONLY

Think drunken donkeys, fandangled fairies and mullered mechanicals… it’s hard to imagine anything more magical, right?.

Tickets £24

Thursday 10th October 7.30pm

Born To Swing Featuring Andrew Bourn Following a run of sold out shows and touring the globe, Andrew will perform a great mix of classic songs from Sinatra and co, to modern crooners Michael Buble and Robbie Williams.

Tickets £26

Friday 11th October 7.30pm

The British Carpenters

Join us for the one very special night as we celebrate the music of The Carpenters.

Tickets £25

Saturday 12th October 7.30pm

Oh What A Night! The Ultimate Celebration Of Frankie Valli & The Four SeasonsTickets £25

Tuesday 15th October 1pm & 7.30pm

National Production Company presents: William Shakespeare’s Macbeth Age recommendation 11+

Tickets £23 / £19 over 60’s / £12 under 16’s

Thursday 17th October 7.30pm

Wishbone Ash Tickets £32.50

Friday 18th October 7.30pm

CODA: A Tribute To Led Zeppelin

Tickets £23

Saturday 19th October 7.30pm

Petty Criminals – Tom Petty and Stevie Nicks Tribute Show

Tickets £22

Thursday 24th – Saturday 26th

October 7.30pm

Matinee Saturday 26th October 2.30pm

Wimborne Drama Productions

Witness For The Prosecution by Agatha Christie. Tickets £17.50 evening/£15.50 matinee/ 1 in 10 free all performances available via Box Office

Sunday 27th October 7.30pm

Mike Osman’s Jethro

SUITABLE FOR AGES 16+

Mike Osman, the brilliant comedian and close friend of the legendary Jethro, invites you to an extraordinary tribute show that will transport you back to the golden era of comedy. Tickets £22.50

Monday 28th October 2pm

Made To Measure Productions present: Halloween Spooktacular

Tickets Adults £15.50/under 16’s £14.00

Tuesday 29th October 7.30pm

Fairport Convention

Fairport Convention famous for launching British Folk Rock elebrate their 57th anniversary! Tickets £35

384 pages

Published October 202 by Hachette UK

ISBN-13: 9780751584226

Available in both print and digital formats

Reviewed by Hollie Williams

Wednesday 30th October 7.30pm

Man Of The World: The Music Of Peter Green

Celebrating the life and music of Peter Green, founder of the original Fleetwood Mac. Tickets £21.50

Thursday 31st October 7.30pm

Rock For Heroes

Classic rock anthems, incredible musicians, sensational vocalists and a ROCKTACULAR experience; with a lot of laughs thrown in! Tickets £24

Friday 1st November 7.30pm

Tom Waters – Electric People On Tour With special appearance from Ben Waters Tickets £22.50

Sunday 3rd November 7.30pm

Lipstick On Your Collar

Back with a new show for 2024!

Step back in time to the golden era of music where the jukebox roared and feet didn’t touch the floor. Get your dancing shoes at the ready, grab yourself a milkshake and relax – you are in for an evening of back to back hits from the 1950s and 60s!

Tickets £25

Tuesday 5th November 7.30pm

Su Pollard: Still Fully Charged Age Restriction 12+

Tickets £25.50

Wednesday 6th November 7.30pm

Kerry Ellis: Queen Of The West End In both the West End and on Broadway, she has starred in musical theatre’s biggest roles, making shows her own and earning her numerous awards. Tickets £75 Super VIP/£50 VIP/£30 Standard.

What’s On AUTUMN

Compton Organ Show

Experience the sounds of the Compton Organ this year with Bournemouth Pavilion’s season of organ concerts. Money raised from show will contribute to the ongoing financial aid and maintenance of the theatre’s Compton Organ.

Date: 8/8/24 – 18/12/24

Time: Doors open 12:30pm concert starts 1.00pm

Location: Bournemouth Pavilion

Price: £5, tickets sold at door (cash only)

Find out more: www.bournemouthpavilion. co.uk/events/compton-organ-shows-2024

Clubbercise With Ricky

Fun, full-body workouts with easy-to-follow routines combining dance, toning and combat moves set to a soundtrack of club anthems from 90’s classics to the latest chart hits. With great results for all fitness levels.

Date: 29/9/24 – 6/10/24 (only on Sundays)

Time: 9:50am – 10:30am

Location: Walled Garden, Upton Country Park

Price: £4

Find out more: uptoncountrypark.com/

Shakespeare’s Globe: Othello Screening

A modern take on the hit Shakespearean play, an Othello for our times. Experience Shakespeare’s confronting look at the destructive impact of institutional racism and a justice system locked in a vicious cycle of self-fulfilling prophecy.

Date/Time: 30/9/24 (7:30pm) & 6/10/24 (2pm)

Location: The Regent Centre

Price: £19

Find out more: www.theregent.co.uk

Here’s our pick of events going on in and around BCP over the next few months.

Legends of the Dance Floor

Strictly come dancing legends: Brendan Cole, James Jordan, Pasha Kovalev, Vincent Simone and Ian Waite are to perform a spectacular new hit show. It promises to be a nostalgic celebration of Latin, Ballroom, tango and so much more.

Date 3/10/24 Time: 19:30 - 22:00

Location: Pavilion Theatre Price: £30

Find out more: www.bournemouth.co.uk/

It’s A BEAUTIFUL NOISE with Fisher Stevens

The definitive tribute to Neil Diamond There’s a beautiful noise, comin’ up from the Christchurch streets, got a beautiful sound, it’s got a beautiful beat. . . A celebration of the music of Neil Diamond is making its way to the Regent Centre.

Date: 4/10/24 Time: 7:30pm

Location: Regent Centre

Price: £28

Find out more: abeautifulnoiseshow.co.uk/

Pure 90’s Vs 00’s w/ Special Guests TBA

90’s Vs 00’s who would you decide? Dance the night away with some nostalgic tunes, Blur vs Oasis, britpop and so much more.

Date: 5/10/24 – 6/10/24

Time: 21:00pm – 2:00am

Location: Canvas, Bournemouth

Price: £4.37 +£0.37 fee

Find out more: www.eventbrite.co.uk

Bournemouth Half Marathon

Bournemouth has opened entries to the running community for its famous half marathon. Love running? Why not join? Is one of your friends or family running, come and support them.

Date: 13/10/24 Time: 11:00am

Location: Bournemouth Price: Free Find out more: runbournemouth.com

Bournevaria Oktoberfest

Bournemouth International Centre will be transformed into the largest indoor Oktoberfest celebration on the South Coast. Set in our Bavarian-themed beer hall and laced in German tradition, Bournevaria Oktoberfest is full of entertainment, great food, and delicious German beers.

Date: 19/10/24 Times: 12:30pm, 7:00pm

Location: The BIC, Bournemouth

Price: £12.00 (Student), £16.50 (Standard)

Find out more: www.bournevariaoktoberfest.co.uk/

Regent Comedy Club with Geoff Norcott

Live at the Apollo star Geoff Norcott headlines at the Regent Comedy Club. Hot on the heels of his sold out national tour and regular appearances on Have I Got News For You, The Last Leg, Mock The Week and many more.

Date: 30/10/24 Time: 7:30pm

Location: The Regent Centre

Price: £19 (18+ only)

Find out more: www.theregent.co.uk/

Festival of Remembrance Service at the Bournemouth War Memorial

Bournemouth’s Annual Service of Remembrance and Parade will take place at the War Memorial in the Central Gardens.

Date/Time: 10/11/24 Time: 10:00am

Location: War Memorial, Central Gardens

Price: Free

Christmas in Bournemouth

Take your pick from a wide array of hand made and traditional Christmas gifts before refuelling with all of your festive favourites, including the famous Hog Roast and Luxury Hot Chocolates.

Date: 14/11/24 – 1/1/25

Time(s): 14/11/24 (18:00-23:00pm)

then daily (11:00am-23:00pm)

Location: Bournemouth Square

Price: Free

Find out more: www.christmasinbournemouth.co.uk

Highcliffe Castle Christmas Tree Festival

Highcliffe Castle is hosting its first every Christmas Tree Festival in December with the decorated trees taking pride in their State Rooms. Visitors can enjoy storytelling and a festive trail.

Date: 1/12/24 – 22/12/24

Location: Highcliffe Castle

Price: £3.20 - £9.00

Find out more: www.highcliffecastle.co.uk