Viewpoint March 2021

Mid March 2021 Volume 45, Issue 5

LOCAL VIEWS ON LIFE AFTER LOCKDOWN

interview with PCC candidate David Sidwick

Sustainable travel routes

Charity of the Year

Beaver release © Dorset Wildlife Trust/James Burland

have your say

back in Dorset Your Independent Local Magazine Established Over 40 Years | ISSN 2397-7183 (print) | ISSN 2397-7191 (online) VERWOOD | RINGWOOD | FORDINGBRIDGE | WEST MOORS | WIMBORNE | FERNDOWN | ASHLEY HEATH | ST IVES | ALDERHOLT

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VIEWPOINT March 2021

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VIEWPOINT

Volume 45 • Issue 5 • March 2021

Dear readers

VIEWPOINT

I was beyond excited.

I had received a phone call from Wimborne Town Council asking me to cover the raising of the Commonwealth Flag at the Allendale Centre on 8 March – socially distanced of course.

I was actually going to leave my home office to take photos, something that has happened so infrequently over the past 12 months.

The excitement was almost as great as when, as a cub reporter for a local daily paper, I had to take a photo of the Bournemouth Football Club first team. That didn’t go well as they were all lined up and the camera wouldn’t work. No mobile phone to fall back on.

What should I wear for the flag raising in Wimborne? I didn’t think my recent uniform of windproof jacket, waterproof trousers and walking boots would be appropriate, but also it didn’t warrant going to the other extreme and donning heels and a smart dress.

The call from Wimborne TC gave me the cautious feeling that maybe, just maybe, there will be more events to cover this year.

I appreciate that the roadmap to normality could be changed at any stage but with trees budding, birds singing and fresh spring flowers appearing every day, there is a palpable feeling of optimism in the community.

Crowd pulling events such as Wimborne Folk Festival and Dorset Steam Fair have been cancelled for 2021, but carnival organisers in Dorset are still hoping to be able to put on a show, and smaller events could well pop up on the calendar.

I had better keep my camera batteries charged.

Marilyn Barber News editor

The Editor reserves the right to amend or shorten contributions in order to fit in with the editorial policy and style of the magazine

Ben Pulford managing director ben@mags4dorset.co.uk Louis Pulford creative director louispulford@brightboxdesigns.co.uk

Nick Pulford company secretary accounts@mags4dorset.co.uk

NEWS DESK

Picture of the month

Janine Pulford editor editorial@mags4dorset.co.uk Marilyn Barber news editor newseditor@mags4dorset.co.uk Karen Wyatt-Epapara deputy editor mags@mags4dorset.co.uk

Knowlton Church in the late winter sunshine

How to contact us 01202 870270

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Email: news@dorsetview.co.uk Web: www.dorsetview.co.uk Twitter: @dorset_view Facebook: dorsetview.news Dana House, Spinneys Lane, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9BZ

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Copy date 29 MAR 2021

VIEWPOINT is independently published and distributed free to homes and businesses in selected areas of Dorset and Hampshire. It is also available by subscription at £40 per year. Views or opinions expressed in VIEWPOINT are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement deemed to be unsuitable for publication. Information about a service does not imply recommendation. All purchases made through this publication are done so entirely at your own risk. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with VIEWPOINT and should not be reproduced without prior written permission from the publisher. The company’s privacy policy can be read at www.dorsetview.co.uk

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VIEWPOINT March 2021

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Wimborne Spring Green Festival online in April Wimborne Green Festival is back – and coming to a screen (very) near you.

An inspiring, green-themed programme of online events will include films, nature and wildlife talks, children’s craft sessions, Q&A for gardeners, Repair Café wisdom and more – all designed to encourage and equip people to live more sustainably and build a more hope-filled future. Just like spring greens, Wimborne Spring Green Festival will do you good.

The festival will take place from 17-24 April. Programme and booking details will be available on the Facebook page – @WimborneGreenFestival. You can also email wimbornegreenfestival@gmail.com for information.

Man given hospital order A man who was found not guilty of manslaughter by reason of insanity following the death of a family member in Bournemouth has been made the subject of a hospital order.

Giuseppe Vittorio Stefano Zerega, 31, was found not guilty by reason of insanity at Winchester Crown Court on 11 February 2021 following a trial. He was also found not guilty in relation to two counts of attempted murder.

Zerega reappeared in court on 26 February, when he was made the subject of a hospital order with restrictions without limit of time and will only be released following a decision by a mental health tribunal.

The incident took place on 19 June 2020 when it was reported a man had sustained stab wounds at an address in Eldon Place in the Westbourne area.

The victim, 45-year-old Fabio Menegon, was sadly pronounced dead at the scene. He died from stab wounds to the head and trunk.

A woman in her 40s and a teenage boy were also injured. Their injuries were not life-threatening.

Zerega was found in the garden of the neighbouring property, arrested and taken to hospital for treatment to injuries he sustained during the incident.

He was subsequently detained under the Mental Health Act throughout the course of the investigation, trial and after the verdict was delivered.

No concerns about Covid fines

An independent review of how Dorset Police has issued fines to repeat offenders throughout the pandemic has found officers acted reasonably and proportionately.

The work was carried out by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset, which has been scrutinising how the force is using new powers to clamp down on people breaching Covid-19 restrictions.

A randomly selected series of incidents in which fixed penalty notices (FPNs) were issued to people who had received more than one notice were assessed. In all the cases, the OPCC found there were no concerns. Most of the FPNs had been issued following reports from worried members of the public or as a result of routine patrols.

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VIEWPOINT March 2021

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NIBS

Have your say on new cycling and walking routes Residents in Dorset have the chance to put forward their views on proposals for 78km (48.5 miles) of new cycling and walking routes and bus infrastructure improvements across south east Dorset.

BCP Council and Dorset Council are jointly proposing six new sustainable travel routes, which will be funded through the £100+ million Transforming Cities Fund (TCF).

The routes aim to give people safe, quick and environmentally friendly travel alternatives to driving, particularly for short journeys.

Proposals include: • New and improved cycle and walking paths • New pedestrian crossings and wider pavements • Changes to road infrastructure to improve bus journey times • Upgrades to existing, and installation of new, bridges • Junction improvements prioritising pedestrians and cyclists • New wayfinding signage and lighting • Lower speed limits • New bus shelters and real-time service information at bus stops • Improved pavement access and crossings for people with mobility needs including drop kerbs and tactile paving • Smart ticketing

The consultation is being run in two phases.

The first phase will cover four of the six planned routes and will run until the end of March.

The second phase of the consultation for the remaining two sustainable travel routes is likely to begin at the end of March and will run until mid-May. The online survey is available at: haveyoursay. bcpcouncil.gov.uk/transforming-travel.

Listed building application New Forest District Council has received an application for listed building consent for the site at 47-49, High Street, Fordingbridge.

The proposal is to extend and alter the existing shop and fivebedroom flat to form a shop at ground floor level and to provide four flats, one of which would be one-bed, two, two-bed and one three-bed.

Fordingbridge development

Printed copies of the proposals and the response survey are also available by emailing transformingtravel@bcpcouncil.gov. uk or by calling 01202 451451.

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Pennyfarthing Homes has applied to New Forest District Council for full planning permission for the erection of 63 homes plus land for green space and new accesses onto Whitsbury Road on land at Tinkers Cross, Fordingbridge.

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Help to get to vaccination centre If you live in Dorset and you have a problem in getting to your vaccine appointment the council can help.

Both Dorset Council and BCP Council are offering support to those eligible towards the costs of a taxi journey to local vaccination appointments.

To speak to someone about the travel support available, BCP Council residents should contact the community response helpline on 0300 1237052 or go to the BCP council website. Residents in the Dorset Council area should call 01305 221000 or go to the Dorset Council website.

Sandbanks ferry to return to normal service

The Sandbanks Ferry Company has revealed its plans to resume its full service as Covid-19 restrictions are eased.

Between 1 and 31 March, services will start at 7am, with the final ferry leaving Sandbanks at 9pm.

Then, with effect from 1 April, the ferry will return to normal operating hours, with the first ferry leaving Sandbanks at 7am and the final ferry operating from Studland at 11.10pm.

Existing Covid safety precautions will remain in place.

Details of the ferry timetable can be found at: www.sandbanksferry.co.uk/timetable and daily updates at @sandbanksferry on Twitter and on the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ sandbanksferry

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VIEWPOINT March 2021

Gardening with In Jolly Good Company

Funding for voluntary organisations A pot of £43,750 has been divided between voluntary organisations in Dorset.

The money comes from The Wessex Water Recovery Fund, which is part of the Wessex Water Foundation, and is distributed through the Dorset Community Foundation.

Among the 22 recipients is Home-Start South East Dorset, which received £2,400 to help it support families in the Bournemouth area.

Fundraiser Sally Smith said, “Our project will support disadvantaged families with young children adversely affected by Covid-19 who are struggling to cope with financial hardship, mental health difficulties and isolation.”

Volunteers will offer parents weekly support for six months by phone, while Covid restrictions apply,

to talk about the pressures they face, discuss coping strategies and signpost them to other help.

In Jolly Good Company received £720 to set up a new dementia friendly gardening group in Blandford, working with Dementia Friendly Blandford and the town council.

Staff member Sarah Rampton said the charity plans to run two groups a month. “We have been asked by the town council if we can help to maintain and improve the sensory garden in the Woodhouse Gardens,” she said.

Other recipients included Dorset Polish Centre and the Dorchester Trust for Counselling and Psychotherapy.

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Deborah Craddock, headteacher of West Moors Middle School, with some of her students.

Funding for school gardening project West Moors Middle School is the first recipient in 2021 to receive an award from the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation (JYTAF).

The Ferndown based charity has provided funding to help with the purchase of a polytunnel which will be erected in the school grounds and give the children the space they need to grow food all year round.

A spokesperson from JTYAF said, “The therapeutic gardening tasks, such as potting and weeding will provide a positive focus for the children and give them access to a whole range of outdoor learning opportunities and they will be able to use the fruit and vegetables that they grow in cookery lessons.”

Headteacher, Deborah Craddock commented, “We are all incredibly excited about this project in our school community. It would not have been possible without JTYAF's support.”

Good Citizen Award

West Moors residents are invited to nominate someone they feel is deserving of the town’s Good Citizen Award.

The award honours those who may not get the recognition they deserve for selfless acts they undertake for the good of the community, without financial motive.

There are two categories – Junior (for a young person of school age) and Adult (18+). Nominees must be a resident of West Moors.

The closing date for nominations is 5 April. More information can be found at www.westmoors-pc.gov.uk, or via the town council.

Horticultural cancellation

West Moors Horticultural Society has cancelled its spring show scheduled for 27 March in the Memorial Hall, and the plant sale booked for 8 May. It is hoped that events planned for later in the year will take place.

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Grant to protect Poole from flooding The Environment Agency has awarded £12.4 million Flood Defence Grant in Aid to BCP Council to build new flood defence infrastructure to protect Poole from flooding.

The funding bid was for tidal flood defences along approximately 1.5km of waterfront at Back Water Channel. It will protect parts of Poole town centre, the old town and new developments in the Twin Sails regeneration

area from flood risk for the next 100 years.

Working in conjunction with landowners, developers, the Environment Agency, Poole Harbour Commissioners and other relevant organisations, these plans will complete the provision of permanent flood defences in this area.

Currently, this undefended water frontage relies on emergency temporary flood defences.

Boost for New Forest environment scheme A scheme to support vital conservation projects and commoning in the New Forest has been extended for a further year.

The Verderers of the New Forest Higher Level Stewardship (HLS) scheme was launched in 2010 as a 10year agreement with Natural England.

Managed by the verderers in partnership with the New Forest National Park Authority and Forestry England, it will have brought £22 million into the forest and undertaken a range of projects.

Since 2010 the HLS scheme has returned 20 miles of streams to their natural water courses. These were artificially straightened in Victorian times to drain the forest. This improves the carbon storage in wetlands, prevents flooding and supports the habitats of rare species such as the southern damselfly

and curlew. On-going repairs are taking place.

In addition, crucial funding and expert advice have been provided to hundreds of commoners to continue the traditional system of land management. A stallion scheme also manages the selection and number of stallions which run on the forest each year, helping to reduce the number of foals born each year and improving the quality of those foals.

The whole 220 square miles of the National Park has been surveyed, leading to 3,000 archaeological sites being identified and recorded, with an on-going programme to manage them.

More than 16,500 children have gained a greater understanding of the New Forest through school visits, invasive plants have been removed and healthland restored.

Meesons Solicitors looking forward

By Edward Holmes, director/solicitor, Meesons Solicitors When we look back on the last year, I don’t believe anyone could have either imagined what would have happened or foreseen the various twists and turns the whole country has endured. There are many negatives, however we at Meesons Solicitors are focusing on the positives going forward.

All our IT skills have improved considerably with all solicitors and Edward Holmes legal executives now having the ability to work from home or in the office and to conduct video conferencing. None of us have a cat filter on our computers you will be pleased to know, although my cats have been known to join in the video calls, normally demanding food and attention with menaces.

Our reception area is undergoing a facelift and we have renewed our photographs on the website, although not our faces.

As spring starts to arrive, we at Meesons Solicitors are looking forward to being fully open once all the restrictions have been lifted. The safety of both our clients and staff remains paramount, we have installed screens and these will remain in situ for the foreseeable future.

We look forward to inviting you through the door but remain ready, willing and able to conduct meetings by video conferencing and telephone.

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Pulford Publicity’s

Charity of the Year

David Sidwick makes a bid for Police and Crime Commissioner

By Marilyn Barber

Last month we gave you an insight into our Advice Team and the work they do on a day-to-day basis. This time around, we thought we’d introduce you to life at The Beehive, our adults’ activity and therapy centre.

Many of those we support are currently vulnerable and shielding – some have not left their homes since March 2020. However, we are continuing to provide support remotely, and recently we have reopened The Beehive to provide emergency respite care with a select number of adults in attendance each day, with additional satellite sites to ensure social distancing.

The respite means carers can take a break from providing 24/7 support at home. We host a whole range of activities from arts and crafts to cookery, fitness training, gardening and more.

We spoke to Matt and Jess, two siblings who attend The Beehive, about what their life has been like during lockdown. They’ve both been keeping busy and are both excited to return to The Beehive and see their friends and all the staff again.

Matt told us, “The last year has been difficult and boring. I was really happy to come back. I enjoy sitting on the gym ball, playing games, and having fun.”

Jess added, “The last year has been good but I missed my friends. I was excited to see them again at The Beehive and enjoy colouring, painting, playing snap, singing, dancing, and games.”

We’re doing all we can within the guidelines for those we support but are looking forward to the day when we can get a few more people through the door and help boost their wellbeing once more – until then, Zoom, Skype, Jitsi, and all sorts will get us through!

Cat, and the team at Diverse Abilities

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Tackling rural crime, anti social behaviour and organised and violent crime are top of the agenda for David Sidwick if he is elected as Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset on Thursday 6 May. Elections are held every four years, but the May 2020 one was postponed as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, and Martyn Underhill – who had been Dorset’s PCC since 2012 – therefore stayed in the post for an additional year.

The deadline for nominations is 4pm on Thursday 8 April, and we will be interviewing all the candidates.

David said that of the 43 police forces in England and Wales, Dorset was ranked 34th worst for incidents of anti-social behaviour reported to the police.

He is also keen to address road safety by increasing the numbers of traffic police and encouraging more Speedwatch.

David said, “I will lobby for harsher penalties for driving offences as well as look to increase education for groups using our rural roads. We will seek to be at the cutting edge of technology rather than lagging behind, for example, with noise emissions.”

Born in Bournemouth and now living in Southbourne with his wife Ruth, David went to St Luke’s Primary School and then Bournemouth School for Boys where he is now a governor. He had a career in the pharmaceutical industry before starting his own marketing company, which he ran for 18 years.

However in 2017, he became interested in policing, following three incidents.

“Someone tried to defraud my company and when I contacted the police I was left on the phone for 45 minutes.

“The second incident was when I was able to stop a shoplifting incident in Southbourne.

And finally there was talk of Dorset merging with Devon and Cornwall and I felt the people of Dorset would miss out.”

In 2018 he closed his company with his sights set on the role of PCC. David said he felt that if you are to hold the police to account you should be of the people and not a former police officer.

The Police and Crime Commissioner is in charge of the police budget, so one of the criteria for candidates is the experience to deal with a budget of £2.2million.

“I have dealt with five times that amount,” said David.

David explained why he is standing for PCC as a Conservative candidate.

“Firstly this party understands the importance of the impartiality of the police force - we set it up to be that way in the first place. This was reinforced when PCCs were introduced by both a PCC oath of office and legislation.”

He added that unlike an MP or a councillor the PCC does not have a whip so he would be free to make the decisions that fit with the local needs of the people of Dorset.

“Secondly it meant that I have been tested. To be a candidate I have had to have at least 20 interviews locally. Then a panel interview, written exam and finally having to competitively campaign versus another candidate to win a local hustings in front of 80-100 people. That is really important as the person needs to be the right one with the right skills – the job is too important and Dorset deserves rigour.”

David has a hobby that must have come in very handy during lockdown – board games.

“I have 120 games and do a regular slot on a local radio station about them,” he concluded.

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Dorset foster Considering care carers needed for a loved one?

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Dorset Council is in need of more foster carers.

As a foster carer, you receive how much the parents need a weekly fee for your skills, the break. plus a weekly allowance for “I would highly recommend each child you look after. You starting with short break are also supported with a free caring. Many carers I know programme of learning and started this way, but as time development. went on enjoyed it so much Susan Lochrie has looked they became full time carers. after more than 50 children “Our years of fostering over the last three decades, have given us so many with the help of her husband memories, some of sadness Des. and frustration, but many more The couple have provided of fun, love and many laughs, short and longer-term care and overriding it all is the for children with disabilities, feeling of satisfaction that we as well as bringing up three have made a difference to the children of their own. life of each child.”

Sue said, “The more Find out more at we welcomed, the more fosterindorset.com we enjoyed it so when we were asked to foster an autistic child with learning disabilities for a week, we were pleased and excited to welcome her to our family.” This turned into a two-year placement and the family never looked back.

“Over the years, some of the most satisfying times have been when the foster children have been at their most difficult to care for. These are the Sue and her family times when you realise

Free PPE for unpaid carers Unpaid carers in the Dorset Council area can now request free Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for carrying out their caring responsibilities.

Unpaid care is that delivered by a family member

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or friend for those who cannot cope without their support. It includes a range of activities including delivering personal care such as washing, dressing and feeding, as well as help with laundry, cooking, shopping and cleaning.

A standard package of PPE is available which includes visors, aprons, face masks, hand sanitiser, and gloves.

Delivery is available if needed.

If you are an unpaid carer, you can register for your free PPE at www.dorsetcouncil. gov.uk/UnpaidcarersPPE or call Dorset Council on 01305 221000. Lines are open Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5pm.

Netley Court is an established care home combining superior facilities and design innovations with the very best 24-hour residential and dementia care, together with the option of short stays. Situated in the delightful community of Netley, with sensational views across Southampton Water, it is a special place where residents can continue to live life to the full, enjoy new experiences and make new friends.

An experienced and qualified team strives to make each day special at Netley Court, embracing every opportunity to tailor care to the individual needs, preferences and values of residents.

Peace of mind

Many families are choosing Netley Court to look after their loved ones; not only for the friendly environment and personalised care, but also for the reassurance, safety and companionship.

Netley Court aims to create a stimulating atmosphere, which is vital for the health of body and mind. An innovative use of technology enables residents to keep in regular touch with family and friends. The dedicated Netley Court visiting suite means that meeting with family and friends can take place in a safe and comfortable setting.

Reassurance and protection

Netley Court incorporates state-of-the-art infection control measures, including the very latest ozone air purifying systems, and the team undergoes regular testing and enhanced infection control training to protect residents and colleagues.

It is no wonder that the Care Quality Commission has rated Netley Court as ‘Outstanding’ and it is recognised as a *Top 20 Most Recommended Care Home in the South East for two consecutive years by independent website ‘carehome.co.uk’. *Correct at time of going to press To book your personalised tour of Netley Court, call Kathryn on 02380 984 017 or email netley.haa@cinnamoncc.com.

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Award-nominated care staff Although the last year has been difficult in many ways, there have also been some highlights for the team at Burley’s Home Care. At the end of 2020, three of its team were shortlisted for the Great British Care Awards, in the categories of Home Care Registered Manager, Workforce Development and Dignity in Care.

Director Paul Burley said, “We are very proud of Natasha, Beth and Janet for being recognised in this way; they are a great

example of the dedication and professionalism our carers show in their work every day.

Things have changed for all of us over the past 12 months and we’ve worked hard to continue supporting our clients and colleagues in any way we can, while continuing to deliver safe, high quality care services in people’s homes.”

If you are looking for a rewarding career in care, Burley’s Home Care would love you to come and join their supportive and friendly team.

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health and care

New rehab centre for Boscombe

Boscombe is to have a new state-of-the-art rehabilitation centre.

Dorset LEP is to provide £2.7m of funding towards the creation of a new centre at AECC University College, which will aim to offer patients with multiple conditions coordinated access to different clinical services and diagnostic tests within one facility.

Run by staff at AECC University College, in partnership with the NHS and other local healthcare providers, the centre will combine a fully integrated rehabilitation clinic with leading-edge teaching and applied research. It is also expected that the centre will see an increased number of healthcare professionals graduating from AECC University College, helping to improve economic and social activity, and reducing the burden on health and social care budgets.

Former Olympic and Commonwealth long-distance runner Liz Yelling is encouraging people to set themselves a fitness challenge while helping to fundraise for the Forest Holme Hospice Charity in Poole.

To do your bit to plug the hospice’s funding deficit, and to find out more about Get Fit For Forest Holme, see www.forestholmehospice. org.uk/fitforforest

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ringwood news

‘Spring boxes’ to help isolated older people We’re all very familiar with the creation of shoeboxes for Christmas, but now a Ringwood-based organisation is inviting people to put together packages for the spring.

MHA Communities New Forest, which supports 160 isolated older people living independently, has launched its Spring Box Appeal.

During the pandemic the organisation’s work has involved telephone befriending, shopping, prescription collections and social distance walks (when possible).

Last Christmas, an especially difficult time for many older people living on their own, MHA spent time creating gift bags for their local members. With lockdown continuing, they are looking to provide a ‘Spring Box’ to provide cheer and support the older community across the

New Forest.

You will need a shoe box, or similar size box.

Examples of what you could include are: crossword/word search books, colouring books, crayons, appropriate craft/art/knitting/sewing materials with instructions for a small craft project, toiletries, chocolate and ‘long life‘ treats and a handmade gift.

No perishables please.

Please send your packaged up box to MHA Communities New Forest, 6 Fridays Court, High Street, Ringwood, BH24 1AB by 22 March, to make sure they can deliver to the local community in time for spring.

The scheme’s manager, Katie Rickman, can co-ordinate deliveries and collections. She can be contacted on 07720 680953.

A31 improvement scheme Improvement works on the A31 in Ringwood are underway.

While work to widen the road is due to start later in the year, other activities linked to the improvements are already taking place.

Access to the A31 from West Street has been closed permanently, to improve safety. Works to improve access for pedestrians and cyclists will complement the improvements started in midFebruary. To minimise disruption, other work planned for West Street will be taking place at the same time. This includes: • widening the footpath along the west side of West Street to improve accessibility for cyclists and walkers • new kerbs and environmental planting • building a new footpath over the ‘brick bridge’ • widening the footpath over the ‘old Stony’ • resurfacing both bridges • laying new electrical cable along the length of West Street in advance of the A31 works • introducing new priority give way signs at both bridges to accompany the new and improved footpaths over them A water main will also need to be diverted ahead of the work starting on the A31. More information about this will be available shortly.

The work in West Street is scheduled to finish by the end of July 2021.

For more information about the scheme, visit www.highwaysengland.co.uk/a31ringwood.

Mayor donates allowance to community projects Martin and Victoria Bowrey

Glamping park strikes gold in AA awards A touring and glamping park in Ringwood has been awarded the coveted AA five-star Gold Pennant, the prestigious award given out by the AA to its top parks.

In order to receive the award, Back of Beyond was scrutinised in almost every aspect of its facilities and services.

"This is fantastic news, and we can't wait to celebrate the award with our customers when parks are allowed to re-open," said Martin Bowrey, who owns the park with his wife Victoria.

"An important factor with the AA awards is the quality of hospitality

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provided to guests, and delivering this is largely in the hands of our friendly and hard-working staff.

"That's why they also deserve a large share of the credit for this achievement," added Martin.

The park was previously presented with the David Bellamy Conservation Award at its top gold level in recognition of Back of Beyond's many environmental initiatives, including the creation of wildlife ponds, planting new hedgerows, and installing hives for honeybees which forage on the park's many high nectar-bearing flowers.

The Mayor of Ringwood, Cllr Tony Ring has donated his 2020/21 mayoral allowance of £1,400 to the town’s grant aid budget. He said that he wanted local organisations to benefit from it, particularly Ringwood Coronavirus Assistance (RCA).

Consequently, the policy and finance committee has agreed an award of £400 plus VAT to the RCA. This will enable the provision of carbon dioxide monitors to the four infant and junior schools in the parish. Rooms would therefore be regulated and ventilation varied, in order to manage coronavirus transmission risk.

Two other organisations are also to receive a grant.

Forest Forge has been awarded £500 to support continued efforts to provide a service on-line, faceto-face and via the post. The company promotes community involvement and wellbeing through drama and arts activities for the residents of Ringwood.

New Forest Disability Information Service is to receive £500 to support the costs of providing free disability related information and advice to people in Ringwood. A welfare benefit application service is also available. Advice is accessible to anyone, and clients are also referred by Citizen’s Advice Bureau and doctors’ surgeries.

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ringwood news Ringwood events proposed

We all need to hope that events planned for later in the year will take place, and so Ringwood Town Council’s recreation, leisure and open spaces committee has pencilled in the town’s fireworks event for Sunday 7 November and the switching on of the lights and the Christmas market for Sunday 28 November.

War Memorial refurbishment

A grant of £3,280 has been received from the War Memorials Trust towards the refurbishment costs of Ringwood’s War Memorial. It is hoped to have a rededication ceremony conducted by the Rev Roberts on Remembrance Sunday. 2021 is the War Memorial’s centenary year.

New allotments

It is hoped that letting agreements for the new allotments at Crow Lane will start on 1 April in time for the start of the growing season.

A31 improvements

Ringwood Town Council is to hold a virtual public information event on 29 March, which will provide detail on the A31 Improvement Scheme.

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For all your legal needs Forest Edge Solicitors has remained open during the third lockdown in order to help as many people as possible with their ongoing needs. They have seen a further increase in the number of people seeking advice and assistance for employment issues, as well as landlord and tenant queries and boundary problems.

To reduce face-toface contact, they will first arrange a telephone appointment to discuss and explore the matter. Email correspondence is used where possible, or post if not, to obtain further information and the relevant documents.

This followed by a video call, if possible or, as a last option, a face-to-face meeting in the office. They have even spoken to people from their driveways if that has been the best option.

There is sufficient space in the office to enable a meeting to safely take place, full track and trace facilities, hand sanitiser, masks and records of visitors along with a full clean down after each visit. Staff numbers on the premises are also restricted.

Doing this, they have been able to continue to carry out court and tribunal hearings, mediation and other conferences on behalf of clients, and are able to make necessary arrangements be able to assist.

It is never too early to ask for help and advice.

Whatever your question, from employment, buying or selling your house, taking on a new lease for business premises, wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney or probate or disputes, call Forest Edge Solicitors now to see how they can help. They can often make

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suggestions during that first phone call that may well help in resolving the problem.

Leaving matters does tend to make fixing them that bit harder.

Call Forest Edge Solicitors today on 01425 208418 or contact them at enquiries@ forestedgesolicitors.co.uk to arrange a free initial no obligation chat.

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| 17

FORDINGBRIDGE NEWS IN BRIEF

Fashion show cancelled

The postponed fashion show, originally planned to be staged at the Avonway in 2020 has been cancelled due to ongoing restrictions. Anyone with a ticket can claim a refund via the Avonway office.

Avonway roof repairs

The Avonway has received grants of £10,000 from Fordingbridge Town Council, £2,000 from Edward Heron, Hampshire county councillor and £500 each from Ann Sevier and Ann Bellows, New Forest district councillors towards its roof repairs. Pending further grant application approvals, it is hoped that work on the roof will begin in March, to be completed by July.

Volunteer drivers needed

The Two Bridges Care Group, which provides transport to help the infirm and elderly attend vaccination, medical and dentist appointments is short of volunteer drivers and coordinators.

Petrol expenses are paid. If you can help, email Derek Ayling on hippotrain@btinternet.com, or call Valerie Allpress on 01425 656052, or Two Bridges on 0845 838 5902.

Homes plan thrown out

New Forest District Council has turned down an application for a disused café at Units 2 and 3 Roman Quay in the High Street, Fordingbridge to be turned into three homes.

PHOTO COMPETITION ‘FRILLING’ ANSWER

The mystery item is a goffering iron. These are sometimes called Italian or tally irons because they originated in that country in the 17th century. They were heated by the insertion of a red-hot poker and used for making frills, ruffles and flounces in starched linen. Charlotte Bronte writes in 1849 describing a baby bonnet trimmed with, “Italian ironed double frills.”

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VIEWPOINT March 2021

Pandemics

By Julian Hewitt, Fordingbridge Museum In the days when travel and tourism was allowed, I visited two historic sites in York that have a special resonance now.

These were stones (pictured below) that were used in times of plague to pay outsiders for food and other goods. The first one was the base of an old boundary marker cross with depressions in it where money was left immersed in vinegar. The second was a marker stone dating from the 14th century but used in the same way by plague victims who had been placed in isolation on Hob Moor just outside the city. Both were used in 1604-05 when a third of York’s citizens died of the plague.

Bubonic plagues have occurred regularly since 430 BC with major outbreaks in this country that caused large numbers of deaths in 1347 and 1664. The plague was spread along trade routes and is now thought to have been transmitted by body lice and fleas as well as by touching contaminated surfaces and through droplets and aerosols breathed out.

The symptoms were very unpleasant and included fever, vomiting and diarrhoea. Buboes or large swellings appeared on the neck, armpit and thighs of the patient.

These were filled with blood and appeared black, hence the name the Black Death. It could act very quickly and people could be symptomless on one day but dead the next. Unlike Covid, the prevalence was worse in hot, humid weather and died down in winter when the fleas were less active.

Medical knowledge was very limited and the treatments were often ineffective. One was to perforate the bubo and put a heated glass cup over it so that the vacuum would draw out the puss and blood. This only resulted in the puss spreading the infection.

Some measures that were taken may not have been

based on medical knowledge but were nevertheless effective and have echoes in our response to coronavirus. Infected houses in London had a red cross painted on the door and were left empty for forty days, which was enough time for any fleas inside to die. The house was then fumigated by burning saltpetre, brimstone and juniper, which produced sulphur dioxide – modern experiments show this kills fleas and lice. The walls were then painted with white limewash which we now know acts like an antibacterial spray.

Plague doctors wore a mask with a birdlike beak to protect them from what they called miasma, or bad air. People also practiced social distancing. The ultimate example of this was the King and the court who, in 1665, moved first to Hampton Court and then to Oxford. Guards were put on all entrances to the city so that no one could enter or leave. This travel ban ensured that Oxford stayed free of the plague.

In the 1348 plague, incoming ships were put into quarantine for 40 days.

The word quarantine comes from the Italian for forty days. Watchmen locked and kept guard over infected houses in London. Public places such as theatres were closed and thousands of cats and dogs that were thought to carry the plague were killed.

The most famous example of self-sacrifice was the Derbyshire village of Eyam, which had the plague brought to it in a bale of flea-infested cloth from London. The villagers voluntarily quarantined themselves and, although three quarters of the villagers died, the plague was not spread to nearby towns.

It is no consolation that there is nothing new under the sun.

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verwood news

Support for Verwood residents during the pandemic Help is available for people in the Verwood area who are having to self isolate.

The Verwood Coronavirus Community Support Group can also help if you need medical advice and support or if you require food or help to get a prescription.

The group can provide food bank referrals and emergency food parcels.

Registered with Dorset Council and Verwood Town Council, for medical advice and support from

a team of professionals, you can contact 07903 728547 or 07903 728550.

• For shopping collection contact 07903 728552, 07903 728556, 07903 728557, 07903 728558/ • Prescription collection is available from 07930 219010 and food bank referrals on 07930 219021.

• The co-ordinator is Shelley Rose on 07855 201532.

Hillside intake to stay the same Following a consultation into the possible reduction of pupils able to join Hillside First School from September 2022, it has been announced that the intake will remain the same.

Wimborne Academy Trust (WAT) had undertaken the consultation process as it said there had been a reduction in the number of young families living locally. The change would have meant there would be one class per year, instead of two. There was concern that this would reduce choice for parents, as Hillside is the only school offering non-denominational first school places in Verwood. Parents were also worried the move could lead to reduced funding.

In a letter sent to parents and carers, Liz West, CEO of WAT and Hillside headteacher Jeremy Harrison thanked everyone who had responded

to the consultation. It said: Every response, which included those from other stakeholders including the town and county councils, was carefully considered.

Crucially, it has become clear that more pupils than previously anticipated will be seeking school places in Verwood that year.

As you are aware, the proposal had been to halve that number because of the likely reduction in Reception-aged children.

After detailed discussions and analysis of the responses and the new information on pupil applications, we have decided to keep the Pupil Admissions Number (PAN) at 60.

The trust will now work with the Hillside Academy Committee to explore other approaches to managing any unfilled places at the school.

Road name

At a recent meeting of Verwood Town Council’s finance and general purposes committee, four names were suggested for a road name for land adjacent to Casa Velha in Ringwood Road.

They were Woodcutter Way, Woodcutter Close, Travellers Rest and Balls Pond. The suggestions are to be put before the developer.

Use of the MUGA

Dorset Disability Cricket Club has asked Verwood Town Council if they can use the MUGA (Multi Use Games Area) on Verwood Memorial Ground. It has been agreed that as the MUGA is the same as the recreation ground, anyone can use the facilities but they must realise that other users are entitled to use the facility too.

Bus funding

Verwood’s finance and general purposes committee has recommended to the town council that it should contribute £500 towards the 97 bus service from Alderholt. It was felt that the businesses in Verwood would benefit rather than the residents.

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| 19

Local people reveal their hopes for the future

By Marilyn Barber

Nine local people tell us what they are most looking forward to over the coming weeks when lockdown measures are eased.

With lockdown measures set to be eased over the coming weeks, we asked a number of local people two questions.

1. What are you most looking forward to doing when Covid-19 restrictions are lifted?

2. Is there anything you have come to realise in the last year that you will take forward for the future?

These are their responses.

Sir William Hanham, Deans Court 1. Going to art exhibitions again. Whenever I’m in London I try and catch the big shows at the main museums and galleries. Seeing great works of art, sometimes from collections across the world, brought together under one roof always strikes me as something of a once-in-alifetime event, and London plays host to some of the world’s greatest exhibitions.

2. During the first lockdown, for a few weeks we experienced a world without cars and aeroplanes constantly deafening us to the sounds of the natural world. I’ll always remember the incredible birdsong and the ability ’to stand and stare', and what we have lost with industrialisation.

I hope that in the future we can somehow all experience this again, even for just a few days a year.

Dame Annette Brooke, former MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole 1. I have been very cautious since last March and have not been to a restaurant for over a year. Lunch out with friends would be an enormous treat right now.

2. With the return to more freedom there are opportunities for us all to make different choices in the future and I feel these opportunities must be seized in the ‘new’ normal. As an individual there is much more I can do to tackle climate change. I have so valued our natural environment during this last year; I feel an even greater desire to protect it for future generations.

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VIEWPOINT March 2021

Toni Coombs, member of Dorset Council and Verwood Town Council 1. First and foremost seeing my grown up kids and my long distance best friend. After that taking the holiday I missed last year – we desperately need some sunshine.

2. I will take two things forward – that a crisis brings out the best in some people and the worst in others (thankfully a small minority). The number of hidden vulnerable people in our community with little or no support and how we need to be less self-centred as a society.

Bonds forged in adversity are the kind which persist and they will stand us in good stead as we bounce back from the pandemic.

Ian Girling, Dorset Chamber chief executive 1. I am very much looking to getting out and about with my wife in our new motorhome. It will be great to explore more of the wonderful countryside we have here in Dorset as well as a bit further afield too.

2. I’ve always known what a brilliant business community we have in Dorset but the pandemic has really brought it home. People have been so supportive of each other while under incredible pressure themselves. Bonds forged in adversity are the kind which persist and they will stand us in good stead as we bounce back from the pandemic.

I’ve missed my audience. I cannot wait to get back on a big stage and make an audience rock with laughter.

Pete Matthews, the crazy juggler 1. Being a performer, I’ve missed my audience. I cannot wait to get back on a big stage and make an audience rock with laughter.

2. In the first lockdown I built raised planters and an epic restoration of a 50ft 300year-old cob wall. Working in the garden and building has reminded me how much I love doing stuff like that, and I intend to do more things like that in the future.

Alan Breakwell, a former chief executive of East Dorset District Council 1. I would very much like to venture further than the local area to enjoy the beautiful county we live in and to go on holiday especially cruising when it is safe to do so. As chairman of the Tivoli Theatre I am looking forward to the day when the Tivoli can open its doors.

2. Live for the day and make better use of your precious time and wherever possible strive to make a difference.

Being so involved in Wimborne I continue to be amazed at the incredible generosity of people and communities which I have seen in their support for the Tivoli Appeal.

Greg Hoar, marketing manager at Wimborne Model Town 1. Without doubt enjoying live music and performance. Zoom rehearsals and YouTube videos aren’t a patch on the real thing.

2. In lockdown without the hubbub of everyday life, we can all benefit from a support mechanism of people and projects that can continue to make us feel good and motivated. We have enjoyed a quieter pace of life and have had to become more resourceful, patient and accepting of the present situation.

Moving forward into a more normal environment, maybe we can bring some of these attributes forward, be more mindful of others and not take too much for granted.

Anthony Oliver, former Mayor of Wimborne 1. We look forward to the town coming back to life with the shops opening and people being able to move about more freely. The re-opening of the Model Town, The Museum of East Dorset, the Tivoli Theatre and most of all The Minster.

On the In Bloom front, getting the town back with all the floral displays which have been so much enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. On the Minster front, being able to once again attend and hold services.

2. Taking more notice of nature and the many local walks that we have found during lockdown. Need to make sure we offer more help to those around us, appreciating each other’s company and just taking time to stop and stare.

Linda Thornton co-founder of the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation 1. I am most looking forward to enjoying our favourite walk along the South West Coast Path from Dancing Ledge to Chapman’s Pool and having our usual picnic at the Royal Marines Memorial Garden at Emmetts Hill.

2. This last year has strengthened my belief that it is the time spent with the family and friends that we love which is the most precious gift. A continued gratitude towards all the key workers who have got us through this nightmare, and a real appreciation for the little things which I took for granted.

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pets and wildlife

Beavers back in Dorset A landmark project led by Dorset Wildlife Trust has welcomed beavers back to Dorset for the first time in over 400 years.

The project, led by Dorset Wildlife Trust in partnership with the University of Exeter and Wessex Water, saw the pair of adult Eurasian beavers relocated from Scotland under licence from NatureScot.

This followed several years of preparation, including installing a specialist fence to enclose the site and recording baseline data in the area.

The beavers are now installed in a suitably large site of freshwater habitat, which is not accessible to the public. The enclosure will be monitored and will provide rare, close-up video and photo footage of the charismatic creatures as they explore, make themselves at home and start to influence the landscape.

Dorset Wildlife Trust Rivers Conservation Officer, Steve Oliver, said, "It’s fantastic to be welcoming beavers back to Dorset. Beavers are

Beaver close up © Dorset Wildlife Trust/James Burland

magnificent creatures in their own right, but they are extra special because their engineering activities have the potential to bring even more life to a landscape and enable other species to flourish.”

The beavers have been introduced as part of a scientific study and a key focus of the project is monitoring and recording the impact the beavers have on water quality, flooding and other wildlife. Beavers are known as ‘nature’s engineers’ and their activities, including wetland creation through the building of dams, have the potential to increase biodiversity, filter and clean water, and even reduce flooding by slowing the rate of water passing through rivers and streams during storm events.

University of Exeter’s professor Richard Brazier said, “This will contribute to a growing body of knowledge and understanding across Great Britain of the impact

beavers have on landscapes.

It’s a really unique study for us, to do this in the headwaters of a chalk stream.

“Beavers have been present on the planet for 40 million years or so, so they’re a highly adapted species and know how to manage water resources. We could really learn a lot from them.”

Ruth Barden, Wessex Water’s director of Catchment and Environmental Strategy, said, “We’re keen to better understand the water quality improvements which this project may provide and recognise the huge natural river engineering potential offered by beaver reintroductions, while being mindful of some concerns from farming and fishing sectors.

“This managed trial offers a great opportunity to collect robust science and evidence to inform future reintroduction projects.”

To find out more about the project and the plan for its future, visit www. dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/ BeaverProject.

Digby’s journey to recovery

By Cedar Vets The pancreas is a clever little organ which performs several functions, including the production of hormones and digestive enzymes. Sometimes the pancreas can become inflamed (sore and tender) and this is known as pancreatitis. We often don’t know what causes pancreatitis in our pets, but sometimes it may be as a result of scavenging or eating fatty foods. It tends to affect middle aged to older animals, and certain breeds of dogs are more prone to developing it, such as Cocker Spaniels and terriers.

Pancreatitis can cause mild to severe symptoms, the most common being lethargy, tummy pain, loss of appetite, vomiting and/or diarrhoea. Late last year, Digby arrived at Cedar Vets suffering from all of these symptoms. He underwent a variety of investigations to confirm that pancreatitis was indeed the problem. This involved radiographs and an ultrasound scan of his tummy, and he also had his blood tested, including a test looking for increased levels of pancreatic lipase (a type of enzyme that helps digest fats).

With pancreatitis confirmed, Digby was treated with intravenous fluids, electrolyte supplements, and medications to settle his stomach and to give him pain relief. After a couple of days his condition was improving, but he still didn’t want to eat. After consulting with his owner, it was decided to place an oesophageal feeding tube. This required a short anaesthetic, and once the tube was in place, Digby was provided with the allimportant nutrition needed for his recovery.

Digby was discharged with his feeding tube in place, and his owner continued his tube feeds and medications at home. A week and a half later, Digby was feeling much better.

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| 21

Photo credit: BHPS

Make your garden hedgehog friendly 2021 marks the 10th anniversary of Hedgehog Street, a nationwide campaign run by wildlife charities People’s Trust for Endangered Species (PTES) and the British Hedgehog Preservation Society (BHPS). Initially launched in 2011, Hedgehog Street aims to encourage people to become Hedgehog Champions and make their gardens more hedgehog friendly, in order to help stop the species’ ongoing decline.

Since the start of the millennium, numbers of hedgehogs in the UK have dropped by a third, and your help is needed to help this species survive.

Hedgehog Street is asking members of the public to do 10 things for hedgehogs this year, which are: Get your garden ready for hedgehogs • Hedgehog highways: link your gardens with 13cm gaps in fences to allow hedgehogs access to as many gardens as possible • Create a wild corner: leaving a patch of the garden wild and undisturbed will provide nesting materials and insect prey for hedgehogs • Leave out food and water: meaty cat or dog food will supplement a hedgehog’s natural diet of creepy crawlies. Don’t forget a shallow dish of clean fresh water too • Make a home for hedgehogs: a log pile or more structured hedgehog house will provide a safe nesting site Look out for hazards • Make ponds safe: hedgehogs can get trapped in steep-sided ponds so ensure yours has shallow sides or an escape ramp • Deal with litter and netting: removing litter and tying up loose garden netting will prevent hedgehogs getting tangled and trapped • Stop using chemicals: lawn treatments and slug pellets reduce invertebrate numbers, so go organic for hedgehogs • Check before strimming/mowing: check areas carefully before using garden equipment to prevent any nasty accidents • Take care with bonfires: build or move a bonfire on the day of burning so that there are no hidden hedgehogs inside And finally, get others involved too • Spread the word: become a Hedgehog Champion with Hedgehog Street and help raise awareness with friends, family, and on social media Hedgehog Street’s anniversary celebrations continue with a new garden challenge to find out if the UK’s gardens are hedgehog havens, or if they’re in need of more hedgehog friendly features. There is an online quiz that will provide tailored advice to those who take part, offering improvements based on the answers provided.

To find out more and take part, visit: www.hedgehogstreet.org/happy-birthday-to-us

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VIEWPOINT March 2021

Roy’s Top Down Kayak Challenge In what is thought will be a world first, kayaker Roy Beal is going to paddle from John O’Groats to Land’s End to raise funds for charity.

Roy will be paddling in a wooden sea kayak and, as well as raising money for charity, he aims to raise awareness of the impact of plastics in the marine environment and to promote outdoor sports safety.

His chosen charities are Keep Britain Tidy, Plan B Charity and Clean Jurassic Coast.

The challenge will begin on 26 May from John O’Groats, the point at which Roy will set out on his gruelling 900-mile journey.

“I believe the route has been completed in the other direction three times,” said Roy, “but to my knowledge this will be the first ‘top down’ attempt and the first time in a wooden sea kayak.”

Roy is an experienced kayaker, growing up around boats and kayaks, and has undertaken sea kayaking challenges for charity in the past. He’s also a support kayaker for endurance swimmers. In total, Roy and his kayak have helped to raise more than £20,000 for good causes so far.

Without doubt, there will be many difficulties in his next challenge.

“I'll be paddling areas I've never been to and experience can count for a lot,” he said.

“The North Sea has its own reputation, as does the Irish Sea. A lot of the Scottish areas can have interesting tidal flows and the Bristol Channel is well known for its potentially nasty currents. Even inland waterways can have their moments in inclement weather, especially Loch Ness.”

Roy will also have around 128 locks to negotiate across five canals and a river. “The North Cornwall and Devon coasts can be hazardous too,” he adds.

“It'll be about planning and not taking silly risks.”

You can follow Roy on social media at @top. down.kayak.challenge on Instagram or Kayaking For Charity on Facebook.

For further information or sponsorship opportunities, contact Roy Beal tel.

07413406005, email kayakroy@gmail.com or visit www.kayakingforcharity.co.uk.

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Christchurch Food Festival will take place this year The time of the year and the venue will be different for 2021 but as usual the event will be free to attend.

The Christchurch Food Festival is to take place this year – in a new location and later in the year.

It usually takes place in May but, because of the pandemic, it has now been planned for the August Bank Holiday weekend – Saturday 28 to Monday 30 August.

And this year it will take place on Christchurch Quay instead of in the High Street, to allow for any social distancing measures that are still in place.

In the run up to the festival there will be a series of pop-up restaurants on the Quayside.

And as always it will be free to attend.

The change of date and location is supported by both BCP Council and Christchurch Town Council.

The title supporter this year will be Saxe Coburg Property Experts.

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| 23

motoring / keeping you on the road.

Motorists urged to increase following distance

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VIEWPOINT March 2021

Only a fool breaks the two-second rule Are you guilty of tailgating?

Road safety organisation GEM Motoring Assist is calling on drivers to try out the ‘twosecond rule’.

The advice follows the start of trials involving motorway cameras designed to detect drivers travelling too close, amid concerns that too many motorists are simply unaware of the distance they need to stop safely in an emergency.

GEM chief executive Neil Worth said, “Drivers regularly place being tailgated up there at the top of the list of annoying, unpleasant and downright dangerous threats they experience on the road.

“Imagine a sudden problem ahead of you on a motorway or dual carriageway. According to the Highway Code, if you’re driving at 70mph you will need a minimum of 96 metres to come to a stop. This relies on your being alert and able to react immediately to the problem you’ve spotted ahead.

“Any sort of distraction will compromise that ability, meaning you will continue driving towards the problem at more than 60 metres per second.

“The two-second rule is a great guide, and it works because it’s time-based, not distance-based. There’s flexibility that matches your speed, so it doesn’t mean carrying a spreadsheet of

distances and speeds around in your head.

“You should note as the vehicle in front passes a fixed point, such as a tree or lamppost. Then you say ‘Only a fool breaks the two-second rule’. If you are still speaking when you pass the same fixed point, then you are following too close.”

In November 2020, Highways England commenced trials of new cameras to clamp down on tailgating, an offence it says is a factor in around one in eight casualties on England’s motorways and major A roads.

Choosing a close-following position is likely to intimidate the driver in front, but GEM is also concerned about those drivers who may follow too closely simply because they’re not paying attention or they’re simply not aware of the space they would need to stop if anything went wrong ahead of them.

“They don’t mean anyone else any harm, but they’re still putting lives at risk,” adds Neil Worth. “That’s why trying out the two-second rule on a road journey should be very helpful in demonstrating whether we are following at a distance that will let us react and stop safely if we need to, or whether we are putting ourselves and others at risk because there’s simply not enough space in front of us.”

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motoring

Jeep celebrates 80th birthday 2021 is a special year for Jeep as the brand marks its 80th birthday.

The brand launched its first model – the Willys MB – in 1941. This was the first ever mass-produced 4x4 vehicle. Over the next eight decades, Jeep launched more products and built an enduring reputation that is synonymous with off-road excellence.

Constant innovation has seen the brand evolve, with comfort, handling and connectivity now just as important as its off-road capabilities.

Now Jeep is taking a foray into electrification, with the launch of its first plug-in hybrid model in an extension to the Renegade range. The first vehicle to carry the 4xe badge, Renegade 4xe offers zeroemission mobility, when driving in full electric mode, coupled with the all-terrain safety of the Jeep eAWD system that activates when needed, giving its driver the best possible

balance between efficiency and driving fun.

80th anniversary celebrations are planned throughout the whole of 2021, starting with a web conference that unveiled the new 80th anniversary models, continuing a long-standing tradition of releasing special edition models to celebrate milestones in Jeep’s history.

The Jeep Wave programme will be launched, giving special benefits to members.

Membership will be included as standard with all new Jeep vehicles purchased or leased in 2021 by retail customers. It will include the first three scheduled vehicle services, three years’ roadside assistance, access to a dedicated premium customer service call centre and priority entry to brand events and partnerships.

The 80th anniversary limited edition series will be available in the UK on

Renegade and Wrangler models. Arriving in spring, each 80th anniversary model offers standard safety and technology features alongside aesthetic flourishes that make them stand out from the rest of the Jeep range.

These Jeep SUVs share an unmistakable look, courtesy of specific design cues, including 80th anniversary badging and low-gloss granite crystal accents; black leather seats with tungsten stitching and 80th anniversary logo; highgloss black interior accents and logo tag on seats and mats. Dedicated alloy wheels complete the exterior look of the new commemorative models.

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They are packed full of advanced technology and safety features, which include 8.4-inch touchscreens, DAB radio and navigation with smartphone integration and UconnectTM services, full LED pack and new ‘Since 1941’ infotainment system screen.

Both will be available to order from spring 2021, with UK pricing subject to a further announcement. For more information on the Jeep range visit www.jeep.co.uk.

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| 25

in the home / home is where the heart is .

Having a safe bonfire

With spring almost upon us, and lighter evenings and warmer weather on their way, it’s likely that people will want to start getting out in the garden and perhaps burning garden waste – especially since many household recycling centres aren’t in full operation.

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service is reminding the public about the importance of using bonfires safely, as they can very easily get out of control.

Top tips for the safe use of bonfires include: • Build any bonfire well away from buildings, fences, trees and garden structures • Have a garden hose to hand in case the fire starts to get out of control • Never use flammable liquids such as petrol or paraffin to start a bonfire •

Don’t light a bonfire on a windy day, as it could flare up more than you expect

•

Be courteous to your neighbours – if you’re planning a substantial bonfire, let them know, and stay with it at all times to ensure that it remains safe

•

If you’re intending to have a large bonfire, record it on the fire service’s on-line form – they often receive emergency calls from people who can see lots of smoke, and it helps to know where this could be a controlled burn

For more information on outdoor fire safety visit www.dwfire.org.uk/safety/ safety-outdoors/

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VIEWPOINT March 2021

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in the home

Pandemic has affected 2021 decorating trends No-one would disagree that the past 12 months have been challenging with people spending more time in their homes than ever before.

And not surprisingly, according to colour and interiors expert, Natasha Bradley from lickhome.com, the pandemic is affecting 2021 trends.

Natasha predicts that homes will reflect the need for our living spaces to accommodate life in the new normal. With work from home considered the norm, consumers are looking to create spaces that offer dualfunctionality, with homes that carry them from work to play.

As we struggle to find a line between work and home, beiges and greiges (beige plus grey) are predicted to take the spotlight this year. The easy-going colours are simple to style and offer the perfect backdrop for a home office, offering focus and calm as well as warmth and comfort – perfect for helping consumers transfer between work and play seamlessly.

Natasha says, “Since lockdown, I’ve been working from an earthier pallet, carefully curating multifunctional spaces that suit my clients' needs to cater to both work and play.

“The pandemic has impacted many interior trends, shifting away from open plan spaces and encouraging

consumers to create purposefully designed ‘hubs’ that can offer the privacy and focus needed for work / schooling with breakout areas that provide much needed separation and relaxation.

Colours which easily transcend mindsets, like beiges and greiges, are perfect for tying

these spaces into one another, enabling you to still achieve an open feel, while creating designated spaces to get the whole family from morning to evening.

“Colours and decor which offer feelings of nature and help to bring the outside in are also predicted to be a big

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trend in 2021, with earthy pinks and greens expected to grow in popularity, especially with those decorating kitchens and living rooms. Feature plants have been enjoying their moment for sometime now, thanks to their purifying qualities and representation of health and wellbeing, but this green fingered trend is now anticipated to be reflected in our wallpaper choices as botanical papers peak consumer interest in 2021 ideal for those who struggle to keep their ‘actual’ plants alive.”

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specialist services / who to contact for the service you need.

ASBESTOS

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

COMPUTER SERVICES

CHARTERED SURVEYOR

DECORATING

ELECTRICIAN

FENCING

FENCING

FENCING

FURNITURE RESTORATION

GARAGE DOORS

GARAGE DOORS

LANDSCAPING

GARDENING

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VIEWPOINT March 2021

LANDSCAPING

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specialist services LOCKSMITH

LANDSCAPING

PLUMBING

PLUMBING

ROOFING

TREE SURGERY

PLASTERING

MAINTENANCE

LANDSCAPING

PLUMBING

OLD TOYS

PLUMBING

TREE SURGERY

TREE SURGERY

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WASTE CLEARANCE

WINDOW CLEANING

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Art prize to boost creativity The Dorset Art Prize, co-founded by Bournemouth & Poole College and the Dorset Community Foundation Trust is open for 2021.

The awards allow adults and children to share their creativity and artistic talent with the whole county.

Diane Grannell, principal of Bournemouth & Poole College, said, “We are so pleased that despite last year’s challenges, so many people were able to connect through their shared passion of art and create beautiful designs inspired by the unprecedented circumstances.

“We received lots of feedback from last year’s entrants explaining that the Art Prize gave them something positive to focus on at such a difficult time. We are proud to be bringing the awards back this year as we continue to champion the wealth of Dorset’s talent. We hope people are able to optimise on the extra time spent at home, by channelling their creativity into something positive, which aids their self-care and wellbeing.”

The Dorset Art Prize is free to enter and open to all Dorset residents, not just students of Bournemouth & Poole College. There are five categories available to enter with a prize fund totalling more than £6,200:

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VIEWPOINT March 2021

• Year 10 and Year 11 Art Prize —1st Prize £750, 2nd Prize £500, 3rd Prize £250 • Year 12 and Year 13 Art Prize — 1st Prize £750, 2nd Prize £500, 3rd Prize £250 • Over 19 Art Prize — 1st Prize £1,000, 2nd Prize £500, 3rd Prize £250

Previous entrant: started young by Danny Byrne

• Secondary School Art Prize KS3 (Years 7 to 9): £750 awarded to the winning school • Primary School Art Prize KS2 (Years 3 to 6): £750 awarded to the winning school (new for 2021) The theme for this year’s Art Prize is ‘narrative’ and the deadline for submissions is Thursday 15 July 2021. Shortlisted artwork will be showcased in Poole Museum, where the competition final will take place in November 2021, depending on the latest government guidelines.

For more information, please visit thecollege.co.uk/dorset-art-prize

Icecream Galore!

by Ella Barnes

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