Dorset View May 2021

Sarah Choudhury by Paul Gorsuch

May 2021 Volume 18, Issue 10

WIMBORNE EXCLUSIVES

EXCLUSIVE

MARILYN BARBER SPEAKS TO NEW MAYOR, TOWN CRIER AND TIVOLI MANAGER

SARAH CHOUDHURY AND EMMERDALE'S BHASKER PATEL COMBINE CULTURAL ROOTS IN EXCITING NEW PROJECT local knowledge | local reporters | local news ISSN 2397-723X (print) | ISSN 2397-7248 (online) Broadstone | Christchurch | Colehill | Ferndown | Merley | West Parley | Wimborne | Ashley Heath | Bournemouth | Canford Heath Kinson | Poole | Ringwood | St Ives | Three Legged Cross | Verwood | West Moors

Picture of the month

Volume 18 • Issue 10 • May 2021

DORSET VIEW

Dear Readers!

Another lifting of lockdown. Smiley face.

Have lockdowns become a way of life I wonder as the news hits the headlines that the Covid-19 crisis in India has gone from bad to catastrophic in just a fortnight.

Here the sun is shining, there are queues at the barbershops and the roadmap is forging ahead with hope on the horizon.

Ferndown Fete on the Field is planned in June; Christchurch is working towards its food festival over August Bank Holiday and the Tivoli in Wimborne has a busy programme of events, see page 26.

As I reflect on the last year, my favourite moments were watching the nesting birds in our garden.

A major plus was that our family business survived. It was our toughest year, but we kept going. Even when we couldn’t print magazines, we provided them online and helped our advertisers with free or heavily discounted promotions. We will always look after our customers because we value them so highly and we thank each and every one for their loyalty.

Our rebranding from mags4dorset to Dorset View was a great success and the latest news is that our magazines are now available in local supermarkets. See page 33.

We are proud to have been around for everyone throughout the year of the pandemic. There is no getting away from the fact that we are all in this crisis together, so let’s hope that by behaving cautiously and by getting ahead with our vaccine programme, our third wave will be a small one.

Finally, we send deepest condolences to Her Majesty The Queen and all the Royal Family for their sad loss. Prince Philip was a fine character and we will miss him greatly.

Janine Pulford

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

ADVERTISING Mark Beechey account manager mark@mags4dorset.co.uk Simon Thornton account manager simon@mags4dorset.co.uk Calls may be recorded for training and quality purposes.

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

LOGISTICS Mike Talbot

Sisterly love: Margo and Chloe at Kingston Lacy

How to contact us

01202 870270

Email: mags@mags4dorset.co.uk Web: www.dorsetview.co.uk Twitter: @dorset_view Facebook: dorsetview.news Pulford Publicity, Dana House, Spinneys Lane, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9BZ Follow us on FACEBOOK:

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Copy deadline

14 MAY 2021

Dorset View 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 Dorset View 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 Dorset View 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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Dorset pays tribute to the His Royal Highness Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, who died on 9 April aged 99.

He was the longest-serving consort of a reigning British monarch.

Chairman of Dorset Council, Councillor Val Pothecary “…We give thanks for His Royal Highness’s wonderful life and years of devotion to serving the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth. He has been an inspiration to us all.”

Angus Campbell, Her Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant for Dorset “…I know that all our hearts go out to Her Majesty and the other members of the Royal Family at this most difficult time. We have lost a man who has been a symbol of extraordinary support and strength for the Crown. A man who will be most terribly missed by us all, and who has given us, and our country, so very much service over so many years.”

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DORSET VIEW May 2021

Chairman of BCP Council, Cllr David Flagg “…The Duke of Edinburgh has visited our towns on a number of occasions over the past 70 years. In 1966, he accompanied The Queen when they visited Bournemouth Gardens, Christchurch town centre and the Christchurch Priory. Another notable visit from The Duke was to Poole in 1969, when The Queen opened Poole Hospital.

Their 2004 visit began in Bournemouth with a visit to King’s Park and Bournemouth seafront. The Royal couple then continued on to The Lighthouse in Poole, followed by a tour of the new RNLI Training College. Thousands of residents lined Poole Quay as the Royals left the town on a lifeboat.

“Many local people who are still resident in our area will have attended these historic events and will treasure their own recollections of those days."

Deputy Chief Constable Scott Chilton “…I would like to express our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Prince Philip.”

The Freemasons were “deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Prince Philip…“ and offered “sincere condolences to Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family.” Prince Philip had started his life in Freemasonry in 1952.

The Duke of Edinburgh was born in Corfu on 10 June 1921, and was the only son of Prince Andrew of Greece and Princess Alice of Battenberg.

He joined the Royal Navy as a cadet in 1939, and rose through the ranks being promoted to Lieutenant Commander in 1950. He was also a qualified pilot.

A patron, president or member of nearly 800 organisations, he founded the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme in 1956 to introduce young people to new experiences. It has since expanded to over 100 nations.

He retired from his royal duties on 2 August 2017, aged 96, having completed 22,219 solo engagements since 1952.

Prince Philip will also be remembered for his many public gaffes, which were an enduring feature of his life as a working royal.

The funeral of the Duke of Edinburgh took place on Saturday, 17 April, at St George’s Chapel in Windsor. A national minute’s silence was observed as the coffin entered the chapel.

Due to coronavirus restrictions, there was no public procession and just 30 mourners were present.

The Duke, who hated “fuss” left instructions that he should have a relatively low-key funeral, swapping a formal lyingin-state for commemorations remembering his military ties and charity patronages.

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New cycle route for Bournemouth

A new cycle route is to be constructed on both sides of Whitelegg Way between the Redhill and Northbourne roundabouts.

Work, which will start at the end of May, will form part of a 13km sustainable travel route between Merley and Christchurch.

In addition, the speed limit along Whitelegg Way will be reduced from 40mph to 30mph.

Work will also start at the Upper Gardens in Bournemouth.

This will include widening the existing cycle/footpath and lighting improvements.

Police chiefs will head reshaped crime response service The BCP Council and Dorset Council areas will each have a Local Police Area headed by a Chief Superintendent.

Two newly structured Local Police Areas (LPAs) have been formed in Dorset in order to improve local response for communities.

The Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council area which forms the BCP LPA will be led by Chief Superintendent Mark Callaghan. The County LPA, which covers the Dorset Council area, will be led by Chief Superintendent Steve Lyne.

Assistant Chief Constable Sam de Reya said: “Dorset Police is dedicated to providing an outstanding service to the people of Dorset, particularly the most vulnerable in our communities.

“By taking this approach we can focus in on the issues that our communities are facing and provide a robust, engaging, proactive and visible policing presence.

“We want to take this opportunity to form strong connections with our communities and partnership agencies so that we can properly listen, understand and respond to local issues and concerns.”

National investment has already seen 50 new officers join Dorset Police, with a target of a further 50 over the next year.

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ers Stour Oonttthe

By Janine Pulford Photographs by Danny Howe During the first lockdown in 2020, with people taking more exercise along the riverbanks, there were numerous otter sightings in Dorset. The trend is continuing in 2021 and these stunning images were taken by local photographer, Danny Howe, on the River Stour in Bournemouth.

Otters might look cuddly, but they are dangerous wild animals with a powerful bite.

Just look at those teeth. If you see an otter, keep a safe distance.

Semi aquatic and carnivorous, otters are a protected species in the UK. They live in holts, which can be burrows or natural holes along a riverbank because these

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DORSET VIEW May 2021

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native animals need access to water.

Their staple diet is fish.

Eels are a particular favourite.

They will also catch frogs and take small mammals, birds and eggs.

Baby otters are called pups or kittens and stay with their

mum until they are about a year old.

Otters are playful and if you don’t see them, you may hear them squeaking and splashing about in the water along the riverbank.

Another ‘hot spot’ for otters is the River Stour, Wimborne.

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Pulford Publicity’s

Charity of the Year

L-R Brothers Louis and Ben Pulford

Taking on the Dorset Three Peaks

Two of Pulford Publicity’s directors, Ben and Louis Pulford, will be taking on the challenge of scaling Dorset’s three peaks whilst walking a marathon in one day, in support of the company’s charity of the year, Diverse Abilities.

Diverse Abilities is Dorset’s disability charity, supporting adults and children with profound physical and learning disabilities. As with many charities, the pandemic has taken its toll on fundraising over the past year, so the organisation is looking forward to getting people together to take up a challenge and add some much-needed funds to the coffers.

During the event, Ben and Louis will trek to the top of Lewesdon Hill, Pilsdon Pen and Bulbarrow Hill, covering a marathon distance of 26.2 miles across the Wessex Ridgeway and ascending more than 1,530m in a single day - that’s taller than Ben Nevis.

Both are looking forward to the challenge, and feel that now is the right time as they have been taking advantage of the opportunity to walk during lockdown.

If you would like to support Ben and Louis in their fundraising efforts, go to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/louis-ben-pulford

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DORSET VIEW May 2021

Supporting siblings

By Clare Rochford, Diverse Abilities, Children’s Team Last month we told you all about our #GrowTogether campaign, so this time around we wanted to highlight a new service we’ve developed to support SEN siblings.

My name’s Clare and I work as one of the managers in the Children’s Team at Diverse Abilities, and I’ll be heading up STARs, our siblings support network.

Children and young people growing up with a disabled brother or sister often get less attention from parents and have more worries and responsibilities than their peers. There’s a big gap in provision for siblings. I felt as a team we could definitely meet this need as we know a lot of the siblings of the children we support really well.

Last year, we received a generous grant from Children in Need which allowed us to fund STARs (standing for the qualities of our siblings; Supportive, Thoughtful And Resilient). We’re now ready to launch the first of our 12-week programmes for children aged 8–16. We’ll be helping to reduce the pressure they’re under by providing an environment where they can access support and advice, but also take part in fun activities, make friends, and be themselves.

It’s important to provide an opportunity that enables young people to realise they’re not alone, hopefully giving them a support network which will last far longer than however long they wish to attend our sessions, because in my experience, being a sibling never ends.

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Broadband fund benefits rural Dorset 257 Squadron © Andrew PM Wright

Choo! Choo!

While many people were heading to join the queue at their nearest barber shop for a long-awaited haircut, the steam train service resumed between Norden, Corfe Castle and Swanage.

The Southern Railway 1940s Battle of Britain class Bulleid Pacific No 34072 ‘257 Squadron’ hauled the first steam train out of Swanage on Monday, 12 April – the first since Tuesday, 29 December 2020.

Passengers still have to wear face coverings on platforms and trains – unless they are exempt – with hand sanitiser points available on the Swanage Railway stations.

Children under the age of 11 do not need to wear a face covering.

Rural Dorset will be among the first areas in the country to benefit from the government’s new £5bn gigabit broadband fund. The funding will be directed at the county’s hardest to reach and most poorly served areas. Identifying the areas is underway, with contracts for the work expected to go to tender in late summer/ autumn. Building the gigabit-capable infrastructure could start by the end of this year.

Subject to the lifting of government restrictions, the Swanage Railway hopes to re-open its Corfe Castle station museum, return catering facilities to Swanage and Norden stations and reintroduce its dining trains, in a Covid-safe manner from 17 May. The Swanage Railway’s Harman’s Cross station and Herston Halt will remain closed – in compliance with current government guidance – and are set to re-open when the government lifts the Covid-19 restrictions regarding social distancing.

Hopefully the queues for a haircut will have subsided by then and it won’t be full steam ahead into another lockdown. Keep safe and follow the guidelines.

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News in brief

Funding for voluntary community organisations ­– a total of 17 voluntary organisations including Prama Life and Wimborne and District Community Association, which runs the Allendale Centre, are to receive funding from Dorset Council from 1 April this year to 31 March 2024.

Virtual Careers and Apprenticeship Show – an online event for those aged 15-19 who want help finding out what jobs are available locally, which industries are growing, and where the most promising career opportunities are. It will take place on 20 May, 9am-7pm and online visitors will be able to access information about apprenticeships and have the chance to speak to more than 60 employers, hear talks from people in the largest employment sectors and attend interactive Q&A sessions. To register, go to: https://cas2021.vfairs.com/ Citizens Advice – here to help. For free, confidential advice and support call the Dorset Adviceline on 0800 144 8848 or visit www.edpcitizensadvice.org.uk. If you would like to volunteer as a telephone adviser in the East Dorset or the Purbeck service visit www.edpcitizensadvice.org.uk. No experience is necessary as full training is given. Visit or email mandid@eastdorsetcab.org.uk.

Abacus partners with local registered charity – Ringwood Actions for Climate Emergency (RACE) Abacus is in a business that is striving to enhance its effect on global emissions and, while the automotive industry is taking great strides to make improvements, the vehicle hire company thought it would be a great idea to partner with a local charity so it can help make a difference now.

The charity, Ringwood Actions for Climate Emergency (RACE), was founded in early 2020 with the vision to address the challenges of climate change on a local level, to inspire people to make a difference to protect and improve our planet in a number of ways.

Abacus is really pleased to offer its customers the opportunity to help as well, by making a donation to this charity. For every £2 donated a tree will be planted and maintained, helping our local and global environment to flourish for ourselves, and our future generations.

“We really hope our customers can partake in this appeal and as a commitment from Abacus we will also donate £2 for every donation you make,” said Abacus owner, Dave Wolfenden.

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DORSET VIEW May 2021

Aggravated burglary in Ferndown: young thugs jailed

Three people, including a 16-year-old boy, DODDS: have been jailed following an aggravated 11 YEAR SENTENCE burglary in Ferndown.

They were handed their sentences at Bournemouth Crown Court on 13 April.

Jack Dodds, 21, of Bure Lane, Christchurch was found guilty following a trial at the same court in November 2020 of offences of aggravated burglary, criminal damage and two counts of unlawful wounding. He was sentenced to 11 years in prison.

Joshua Jackson, 18, and of no fixed abode, admitted offences of aggravated burglary and common assault and was handed a seven-and-a-half-year prison term.

The 16-year-old from Bournemouth, who cannot be named for legal reasons, admitted offences of aggravated burglary and two counts of unlawful wounding at an earlier hearing and was jailed for six-and-a-half years.

All were made the subject of an extended licence period of three years.

After ringing the bell of a property in Ford Lane, shortly before 9.55pm on 28 May 2020, they barged through the door, assaulted the male occupant and left him unconscious and needing hospital treatment. The female occupant was also injured. All three offenders were masked and dressed in black. It was reported that one was carrying an eight-inch knife. They made off with cash, a purse and a wallet in a white BMW. The vehicle was quickly located by police officers in a Blandford car park with the assistance of the NPAS helicopter.

Dodds was in the driver’s seat, with two other male passengers in the car. After verbal instructions to get out of the vehicle, Dodds put the car in reverse and revved the engine. As the BMW left the car park, it caused damage to a police vehicle.

Later the same evening the NPAS helicopter spotted the vehicle heading towards the Horton Inn. An enforced stop was carried out at around 11.10pm on the A31 near to the Boundary Lane roundabout and all three defendants were arrested.

Detective Constable Eleanor Jones, of Bournemouth CID, said: “This was an extremely frightening incident for the victims while their young children were present in the address.

“It is very lucky that the victims did not sustain more serious injuries, however they are still recovering from the incident.

“I am grateful for the actions of officers on the night that managed to locate the BMW and arrest the people involved.

“Dorset Police does not tolerate violence of any nature and we will always carry out a detailed and thorough investigation to bring offenders before the courts.”

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law spot by Harold G Walker Solicitors

Inheritance Tax Planning using your Will

By Becci Newton – Solicitor Wills and Probate Your Will lets you decide what happens to your estate after you die. You can choose to leave specific items in your Will, such as jewellery or pieces of art, or pecuniary gifts which are gifts of monetary value.

Your Will then deals with your residuary estate, which is your estate (not otherwise referred to by any gifts) less the payment of any funeral or testamentary expenses and inheritance tax.

Whether inheritance tax is applicable to your estate depends on the size of your estate and the allowances your estate is entitled to.

There is both the Nil Rate allowance (£325,000) and the Residential Nil Rate allowance (£175,000) and transferable allowances that your estate may have available.

If inheritance tax is applicable to your estate, you can use your Will as a tax planning tool, highlighting just

one reason why making a Will is so important.

One way of mitigating inheritance tax by your Will is to make a gift to charity. As well as the gift itself being tax exempt, the gift can mitigate the remaining inheritance tax liability, lessening this from 40% to 36%.

You can do this by donating a fixed amount or a percentage of your estate but in order to qualify for the inheritance tax reduction, the gift to a charitable organization must be of 10% or more of your estate.

It is advisable to contact a solicitor for more information on inheritance tax planning using your Will and to discuss the drafting of your Will. The Wills and Probate experts at Harold G Walker Solicitors, a team that prides itself on its vast experience, can be contacted on 01202 203200 or visit www.

HGWalker.co.uk.

Law Spot is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

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DORSET VIEW May 2021

Nature park proposed at Throop People living in Throop could soon be able to enjoy walking in a new park if proposals are approved.

Spanning around 12 hectares, the Throop Nature Park would help to boost the local wildlife population by restoring lost hedgerows to improve wildlife habitats for birds, bats, insects and other small animals, as well as protect local wildlife from disturbance.

BCP council will be extending riverside fencing to create a sanctuary for the otter population that use this stretch of the River Stour and speciesrich grasslands will be restored through managed cattle grazing.

Cllr Mark Anderson, portfolio holder for Environment, Cleansing and Waste commented; “Getting outside in our parks and open spaces has never been more important to people’s wellbeing than it is now. Being outdoors, breathing in fresh air, getting exercise and enjoying everything that nature has to offer can all have a positive effect on people’s mental and physical health, which is essential going forward.”

The park will link up with Stour Valley Nature Reserve, generating miles of green open spaces. It will also feature circular walks, space for families to explore and get back to nature, and places for dogs to exercise.

These new plans for a Nature Park replace previous work that was undertaken to create a Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace at Hicks Farm.

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- advertiser’s announcement -

Committed to providing an exceptional moving experience Prestige & Village are a well-established national brand, which have now expanded to the Bournemouth, Poole and surrounding areas, with a dedicated property partner Rachel Sibley.

Rachel has been involved in the property industry for the past nine years and has extensive knowledge of the local area. Rachel’s enthusiasm for the property industry is reflected in her impeccable customer service skills and personable nature, coupled with her desire to place people in their perfect homes.

Rachel said: “At Prestige & Village we are committed to providing you with an exceptional moving experience. We focus on delivering results, and we hold personal accountability to all our clients. The property market can by a cut-throat industry at times, but we aim to serve you with integrity always.

“We know that selling your home is a challenging process, and one of the most important decisions you make, but we have skilled, trained and qualified professionals to help you every step of the process.

“As you would expect from a modern estate agency, we offer a bespoke service, efficient sales process and outstanding customer service.”

Please do not hesitate to contact Rachel today for a free no obligation valuation on 07960 014363.

Sporty grants

Has Covid-19 adversely affected your sports club? The charity, Made By Sport, has teamed with Dorset Community Foundation to offer grants of £2,021 to Dorset sports clubs that help youngsters develop life skills. Priority given to groups working in disadvantaged communities. dorsetcommunityfoundation.org/funds.

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Prepare your garden

for summer

After such a long, cold spring it’s finally time to prepare all your summer pots, baskets and borders ready for a long, hot summer.

At Woodlands, there is a huge range of bedding, patio and basket plants, such as fuchsias, lobelias, petunias, nemesia, diascia, verbenas and many more, in every shade and colour to make up your pots and borders for a summer-long flowering display.

Prepare your pots, tubs and baskets with good compost and fertiliser. Regular watering, especially in the hot months, and adding liquid feed and fertiliser will encourage stronger growth and repeat flowering throughout the summer.

To enhance your garden and patio you can grow any trees, shrubs, climbers, and perennials in pots and containers with careful attention to watering and feeding. Even the largest of Acers, and olive trees, can be maintained and grown in pots to enhance all your outdoor spaces.

When planting your pots and baskets, pick plants that will thrive in the situation for full sun or shade – there are plenty of varieties to suit your needs.

So, with a little time and effort now you can have an oasis of colour and foliage in your garden, all summer long.

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“Stop feeding other people’s horses,” says woman who fears her pony ate a roast dinner Report by Janine Pulford | editorial@mags4dorset.co.uk A plea for a new law to protect horses against well meaning passers by who feed other people’s horses has been called for after the owner of a mini Shetland pony is convinced he ate a roast dinner.

The plea follows the traumatic experience of Gail

Hamish lying in agony in his field

Hunter-Warburton and her pony, Hamish.

Gail made a routine visit to her ponies in Wimborne on 3 March and was concerned when her mare, Siran, galloped over but little Hamish, who barely scrapes 10 hands high, didn’t move.

Some of the 25 staples needed to close the incision

“I went into the field and he eventually came over,” said Gail, “but he was filthy as if he’d been rolling in mud. When he reached me, he collapsed on to me and fell to the ground. I got him up, but he collapsed again.”

Reacting quickly, Gail called her equine vet at The Barn at Three Cross who came straight out. Five-year-old Hamish had colic caused by compacted food in his intestine and efforts to clear the blockage were unsuccessful.

The severely ill pony was rushed to veterinary hospital while Gail stayed with Siran, who was frantic with separation anxiety because she and Hamish had not spent a day apart in five years.

“After she’d calmed down, I checked the field,” said Gail.

“I was horrified to see a tin foil plate with the remains of a roast dinner. Hamish must have pushed the plate back under the fence so couldn’t finish the meal. There was also a pile of potato peelings.

“This unfortunately isn’t a rarity,” said Gail. “I’ve found chips, crisps, chocolate and the usual apples and carrots thrown over the fence for the ponies in the past, despite the very large sign on the gate.”

The sign says in large red letters: do not feed the horses.

There is also a clear and simple illustration for anyone who can’t read.

Aside from the heartbreak of nearly losing a family pet, the cost to save Hamish’s life was well over £5,000, said Gail.

“Major surgery was followed by four weeks of veterinary care and Hamish had to be stabled for three weeks. He has only just been let out to pasture again.”

Hamish before he was ill

She added: “People need to realise the serious and devastating consequences of feeding other people’s horses.

It has to stop and a law needs to be put in place to enforce this.

Imagine the outcry if people randomly fed other people’s dogs.”

On the same day as the trauma, Gail said a member of the public approached the field with cooking apples and carrots. “When I asked what she was doing she said she fed the horses several carrots and apples each day because it gave her enjoyment.

“When I explained that it was very dangerous, she said she was doing no wrong and gave me the impression she felt it was her right to feed my horses.”

Even carrots and apples can cause serious problems to horses and “just a few carrots fed to a lamanatic horse could kill it,” said Gail. “There is also a choke hazard – horses can’t vomit to get rid of indigestible food.”

Gail is adamant a law is needed to offer protection to horses. To voice your opinion write to letters@dorsetview.co.uk

Cinnamon phone number Due to popular demand following Janine Pulford’s write up of Cinnamon in Ferndown in last month’s Dorset View, requests came in for the telephone number of the restaurant, so here it is: 01202 875617. The restaurant has just been refurbished so be prepared for the wow factor when you visit.

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DORSET VIEW May 2021

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Keith Motors: excelling in the motor trade for 70 years Keith Motors is celebrating 70 successful years in Dorset, Hampshire and the surrounding areas and can lay claim to being the oldest family-owned and family-run garage in Dorset.

It would never have occurred to Charles Keith in 1951, when he founded the company in Christchurch, that his company would have to endure a global pandemic.

But, like the rest of the world, that is exactly what Keith Motors had to tackle in 2020.

Using great foresight, the company has been offering Covid-safe click and collect or free local delivery on all car purchases during the pandemic. It also enrolled a collection and delivery service for MOTs and vehicle

servicing, enabling customers to maintain their car’s performance without the worry of having to visit the garage.

Life was very different in the 1950s and, since that first high street garage, Keith Motors has kept pace with changes and innovations whilst expanding across Dorset and into Hampshire.

The forefront and face of the Keith Motors we know today is situated in Lyndhurst Road, Christchurch.

By the 1980s, the Ford franchise was acquired, and Keith Motors Ford has been expanding the brand ever since.

A Ringwood branch was opened in 2009, which has since become a used commercial centre offering

used van, truck and pick-up sales as well as aftersales and servicing for light commercials and older retail vehicles.

In 2014, the MG franchise was acquired and the Keith Motors Select showroom was created.

A third dealership in Verwood was purchased in 2016.

Throughout all the acquisitions and expansion, Keith Motors has retained an enthusiastic and like-minded team dedicated to their customers.

And, as always, you will find great value new cars as well as a wide selection of handpicked quality used cars and commercial vehicles.

There are currently around 200 vehicles in stock.

With a company that has such an established reputation to maintain, you can be sure of an aftersales service that will not only help to keep your vehicle performing well, but will help with maintaining your vehicle’s value and keeping your warranty up to date.

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From rental, servicing, MOT, repairs, parts and tyres, Keith Motors is a first port of call, as it was back in the day when Charles Keith built the firm’s reputation.

Thriving on excellent customer service and continually aiming towards exceeding expectations, Keith Motors believes the customer is their most important asset.

Help them celebrate their 70th anniversary by paying them a visit.

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Exclusive

Inspirational Bournemouth woman teams up with Emmerdale star to launch production company

By Janine Pulford | editorial@mags4dorset.co.uk There is no holding back inspirational mother of four, Sarah Choudhury.

From Indian food expert to president of Poole Bay Rotary Club, TV presenter and host of I:Entrepreneur’s ‘Sarah meets,’ she has just launched a production company, BS Culture Films, with British actor Bhasker Patel, and she is still slightly star-struck by the partnership.

Bhasker has a long line of acting credits including a role in Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984) and Thunderbirds (2004). However, he is best-loved as Rishi Sharma in the ITV soap, Emmerdale, a character he enjoys playing immensely and he’s quick to reassures fans: “I’m not leaving Emmerdale. It’s been a big part of my life since 2011. This new venture is quite separate.”

Like Sarah, he has Indian roots yet neither was born in their motherland.

Bhasker was born in Uganda and Sarah in Bournemouth. They will be producing a series of short 20-30 minute films that touch on cultural issues and each film will be shot on location in Bournemouth.

Their aspirations are to air their films on YouTube, Netflix and take them to film festivals, setting their sights on the Cannes Film Festival.

Sarah said; “Bhasker and I have been working on the idea for a while, but the lockdowns delayed the start of our production company. We are now in a position to forge ahead with our plans.”

In the first film, Bhasker will play the leading role in a storyline that focuses on post-traumatic stress disorder, with Sarah playing a pivotal part as a sympathetic character.

BS Culture Films will be working in close partnership with Bournemouth University’s media department, which Bhasker says is “impressive.” Once lockdown permits, filming will begin and students will get the opportunity to work alongside Bhasker and Sarah in the production process.

The year 2020 will be remembered as a particularly challenging one for Sarah.

She went through a difficult divorce that ended her 20-year marriage, and she is still adjusting to becoming a full time single mum.

Fortunately, she has a large supportive network and was able to focus on her social media work and the weekly online I:Entrepreneur interviews which helped her

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through the tough times.

“I’ve been able to connect with so many different people through the online medium and all from my own home,” she said – a great positive she has been able to take from all three lockdowns.

As president of the Rotary Club of Poole Bay, a role she enjoys immensely, Sarah has introduced some inspirational speakers from all over the country.

“With our meetings being held on Zoom, I have been able to connect the Rotary with Bhasker, celebrity chef, Cyrus Todiawala, and Dr Tariq Abbasi, Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Greater London. This has really only been made possible by the Zoom platform.”

With a string of awards and accolades to her name, not least appearing in F:Entrepreneur #ialso100 List, which recognises outstanding female entrepreneurs in the UK, Sarah has recently been appointed the first international brand ambassador for the Indian Roti Bank charity.

“The Indian Roti Bank supplies food to homeless people in India,” Sarah said. “The charity wants to take its work throughout the world and I feel honoured to have been asked to get involved.”

And there is another big change ahead for Sarah. Her eldest daughter Hannah, 19, is waiting to go to university in London to study philosophy, politics and economics, so is about to fly the nest.

Sarah’s three younger children, Halima, aged 17, Ibrahim, 11, and Mohammed, 9, attend local schools.

“My children give me a lot of strength,” said Sarah, who also enjoys the company of five Siberian wirehair cats. “They all look the same,” she laughs as one climbs onto her lap and she’s not sure which one it is.

“Our cat had four kittens and we couldn’t bear to part with any of them.”

A naturally positive person, who once worked at Pulford Publicity as a freelance journalist, Sarah said, “I’m quite tough and strong and came out of the divorce case in January this year with positivity. So many great opportunities have come my way recently and lifted my spirits.”

Sarah meditates regularly, and I asked if she had any tips for readers to help with stress.

“You must occasionally give yourself some love,” she said. “At the end of each night run yourself a bath with salts and light candles. It’s what I do and it’s very relaxing. When I go to bed I put on soft music and drift off to sleep.”

At the other end of the scale, Sarah enjoys Bollywood music as well as Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey and Andrea Bocelli especially when he sings ‘Perfect’ with Ed Sheeran – which seemed the perfect place to conclude the interview.

Do keep an eye out for BS Culture Films' first production when Sarah will make her debut performance.

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health and care / caring about people is an act of maturity .

- Advertiser’s announcement -

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If you are in any doubt about your health you must consult your GP. Dorset View is not responsible or liable for damages, which may occur as a result of your use or misuse of the information available on this page.

New faster scanners for Poole Hospital Two new scanners at Poole Hospital’s nuclear medicine department will provide improved diagnosis for cancer, heart disease, kidney issues and gastric problems.

The Intevo Bold Single Photon Emission Computer Tomography (SPECT)/CT scanners will replace the department’s two original machines.

The first scanner is already on site with the department set to receive the second machine in June. They have been affectionately nicknamed ‘Marie’ and ‘Pierre’.

The £2 million cost of installation has been funded through a range of sources, including a generous donation

of £500,000 from the Poole Hospital Cancer Treatment Trust as well as a grant from NHS Improvement.

The new scanners are set to benefit around 3,000 patients annually and faster scanning will allow the department to cut waiting times for diagnosis.

The faster scanning exposes patients to a lower radiation dose and provides more accurate images. In addition, the refurbishment of the department has allowed for the installation of light panels above the scanning couches. When a patient is scanned they can now either gaze at a ‘forest canopy’ or ‘white clouds in a blue sky’.

Helping kids into sport The Laceeze Foundation is a charitable initiative created by Emma Burke and Paula Henley, the founders of Laceeze bands (the innovative product that stops kids’ laces coming undone during sport). The foundation will help encourage children from underprivileged backgrounds into sport, by donating funds to those who would be unable to participate in their chosen activity without financial assistance.

Participating in sport has been proven time and time again to help with physical

health, mental wellbeing and individual development.

However the sad fact is that sport isn’t always accessible to those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

As a company founded by two mothers, Emma and Paula are passionate about getting kids into sport, which is why they want to help.

Laceeze will donate 25p from every sale of Laceeze bands sold directly through its website. To find out more, visit: www.laceeze.co.uk/pages/ laceeze-foundation.

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Sun and fresh air can be real motivators by care professional Jade, Bluebird Care One night whilst visiting one of my clients, he mentioned that he was feeling low and found being indoors all the time quite lonely.

I asked him what kind of things he enjoyed doing and he said he loved going outside but found it difficult now.

He had a ramp fitted to help him access his garden and now, as soon as I arrive, he’s ready to go. We walk around his garden so that he can get some sun and fresh air and is even

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DORSET VIEW May 2021

confident enough to go on his own now sometimes.

He said he feels so much better after getting outside.

It motivates him and he really feels that he has achieved something.

It’s all part of the service at Bluebird Care.

To find out how our care professionals can help with providing care visits in the home, or live in care, please see the adjoining advertisement.

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Life Saving Club’s boost Hard hit by the coronavirus pandemic due to lack of activity last summer, the Christchurch Life Saving Club has been awarded funding by local water supplier, Bournemouth Water, a subsidiary of South West Water.

The welcome boost will be used to buy 10 rescue tubes.

Simon Lancaster of Christchurch Life Saving Club said: “Bournemouth Water’s Neighbourhood Fund has been simply invaluable to us as our old rescue tubes are falling apart and would no longer be safe to use. This expenditure is vital and would have had to be found from somewhere else, but money is tight. “ Christchurch Life Saving Club has over 120 active members. It hopes to return to normality on 21 June when training of next year’s RNLI lifeguards will begin.

To find out more about the Bournemouth Water Neighbourhood Fund, visit bournemouthwater. co.uk and search ‘neighbourhood fund’.

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If you are in any doubt about your health you must consult your GP. Dorset View is not responsible or liable for damages, which may occur as a result of your use or misuse of the information available on this page.

- advertisement feature -

Expert Dementia Care at Netley Court Rated as an Outstanding care home

by CQC, Netley Court is renowned for providing excellent residential care. However, the team is equally committed to developing and improving support for people whose lives are impacted by dementia.

Netley Court has a community dedicated to the exemplary care of people living with dementia.

The team is highly trained in the principles of the condition and recognise that everyone living with dementia requires care that is specifically designed around their unique needs.

A varied programme of activity and living experiences is created to add meaning and purpose to the people that are cared for and to represent their interests, history and journey through life.

The dementia community at Netley Court is comfortable and homely and enjoys outstanding views across Southampton Water from two balconies as well as the dining and living spaces.

Netley Court is proud to be working with Re:Cognition Health – an award winning cognitive healthcare service committed to changing the future for those living with dementia through research to help to find a cure for the disease.

Through Netley Court, there is an opportunity to be referred to Re:Cognition Health for a private assessment at a preferential rate or a second opinion if a diagnosis has already been made.

If you would like to find out more about dementia care at Netley Court or maybe a short stay or residential care, call Kathryn on 02380 984 017 to book your personalised tour or email netley. enquiries@cinnamoncc.com

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Vaccine choice for pregnant women Pregnant women now have the option to take up a Covid-19 vaccine offer if they choose.

Up until recently, vaccination had only been offered to pregnant women when their risk of exposure to the virus was high, such as for health and social care workers, or where underlying conditions place the woman at high risk of complications of Covid-19.

The change enables every pregnant woman to make an individual decision based on benefits and risks. It comes following research from the USA where 90,000 pregnant women have been vaccinated with no safety concerns being raised.

If you are in any doubt about your health you must consult your GP. Dorset View is not responsible or liable for damages, which may occur as a result of your use or misuse of the information available on this page.

- Advertisement feature -

Live the life you deserve If you’re worried about getting in and out of your bath safely and want to combine improvements with something stylish, AHM can help you every step of the way.

The family-run firm with a background in caring and mobility will understand your needs and be at the end of a phone when needed.

AHM don’t employ salesmen. Their experienced surveyors will visit you to discuss your requirements. The firm prides itself in employing courteous and trustworthy fitters to install every bathroom.

Changes to your home don’t need to look unsightly. Just because you’re adding grab rails or a raised toilet in your bathroom, for example, doesn’t mean it will look like a hospital bathroom. You could see it as an opportunity to refresh and update one of the most important rooms of your house.

AHM use specialist bathing products, which come with a manufacturer’s warranty, plus the firm offers its own 12-month installation warranty.

If you are ready to seek help with your bathroom, please contact AHM on 01202 509188.

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DORSET VIEW May 2021

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health and care

If you are in any doubt about your health you must consult your GP. Dorset View is not responsible or liable for damages, which may occur as a result of your use or misuse of the information available on this page.

Cold fingers and toes?

You may need a trip to your GP A warning that millions of people in the UK may be living with Raynaud’s disease without realising it has been made by Scleroderma and Raynaud’s UK (SRUK) following a recent survey commissioned by the charity.

Raynaud’s is a chronic condition that affects around 10 million people in the UK – around one in six – and has no cure. Cold temperatures and stress can trigger ‘attacks’, which cause blood vessels to constrict and temporarily stop blood flow, most commonly to the hands and feet. During an attack, affected areas turn white and blue, and

become numb. As the blood begins to return, limbs turn red and become painful. There is currently no cure, but there are ways to manage the condition.

One of the charity’s supporters, Les Fry, 65 from Dorset is encouraging people to take a simple online test, or go to their doctor if they think they have symptoms.

Les said: “All my life I’ve suffered with cold hands.

That’s what I thought it was. I didn’t realise it was a medical condition.

"I started getting cold hands when I was at school.

It made it difficult to do the sports I enjoyed like rugby because I couldn’t grip the ball properly. My fingers would go really white and then afterwards, I’d have a warm shower and the blood would come rushing back into them. It was really painful.

“Awareness of Raynaud's is important because if you know you have it then you can start managing the symptoms and that can help make your life a bit better.”

To take an online test visit www.sruk.co.uk/testme

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BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY / real people, real news, local advertising.

New Mayor for Wimborne

By Marilyn Barber / newseditor@mags4dorset.co.uk Kelly Webb, who has been elected as the new mayor of Wimborne, acknowledges that her year is going to be very different from when she previously held the position in 2018/2019.

But she is fine with the fact that social distancing restrictions will mean there will be fewer events to attend.

“Being mayor is very time consuming and although it is a fantastic experience it is a lot to take on. However I am happy to be chairman of the council as it is the business and strategic side that I enjoy.”

She added that the public side wasn’t a natural fit for her.

“Over the past year members of the council have been working on Teams and Zoom and so we still see each other a lot.”

Kelly, who is married with two school age children, said: “We will start to get back to some sort of normality and it is hoped to have a Dreamboats gala in August.

However, some things won’t be happening.”

She doesn’t plan to hold a civic day.

“Somehow the pomp and ceremony is too celebratory and it’s a bit soon to do something like that.”

Kelly’s background is in project and programme management and she was also a previous manager at Wimborne BID. She is involved

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© Tom Scrase

with Radio Wimborne where she presents live shows each week.

She has chosen Diverse Abilities and High Mead Farm as her charities of the year, and accepts that with fewer events it will be more of a challenge to raise funds.

However, as an artist, she hopes to be able to auction some of her paintings and perhaps to hold a garden party.

“The mayor gets an allowance of £2,000 to help with attending events, which I can put towards my charities instead,” she said.

She added that she will come up with ideas for fundraising and just park them to see if they are viable.

Cllr Webb, who takes up office on 6 May, succeeds Shane Bartlett who was mayor for two years as there was no election last year.

The deputy mayor will be Cllr Carol Butter.

Wimborne bursts back into life

By Marilyn Barber newseditor@magsfordorset.co.uk Wimborne is bouncing back following the third lockdown, with businesses having worked so hard to ensure their premises not only comply with government restrictions, but are also able to give residents and visitors a very big welcome.

Although large developments have been built around Wimborne in the last few years, the town still retains so much character, boasting buildings that date back to the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries.

Pop into Wimborne Model Town, which depicts the town in the 1950s, and you will see that although the names on the shops have changed, most of the buildings remain the same.

The attraction is just one of the many reasons to visit Wimborne.

The Museum of East Dorset – formerly the Priest’s House

Museum – which dates back to the 1500s has been transformed over the past couple of years with an upgraded exhibition and display space. As well as stunning Roman wall paintings there are 11 galleries to explore. The museum will be delighted to welcome visitors on 17 May, although the adjacent information centre and garden tearoom reopened on 12 April.

And of course there is the imposing Wimborne Minster Church, most of which dates back to the 12th century. It is famed for its chained library, the 14th century clock and the tomb of King Ethelred.

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Martin Goodall, voluntary litter picker

Over the past few years, café society has grown in the town, with such a variety of independent premises, most of which now offer outside seating with splendid views.

The pubs have also been working hard to provide Covidsecure facilities.

The Allendale Centre fulfils all that you would expect of a community centre with not only a huge variety of activities on offer, but a café with indoor and outdoor seating. Outside there is a vending machine where you can obtain fresh, free range, local milk.

And adjacent to the

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

Famous people from Wimborne

Allendale Centre is the Georgian Allendale House, which for the last 30 years has been the home of East Dorset Heritage Trust.

Heritage walks, talks and visits, plus courses are also available when restrictions permit.

Visitors and residents are able to not only enjoy the wide variety of shops, both independent and national favourites, but also some beautiful scenic walks along the paths beside the River Allen. If you are lucky you will be able to spot a huge variety of birdlife including shy kingfishers, herons and cormorants, as well as ducks, swans – and otters.

For the past 28 years, Wimborne has been enhanced by the hard work of volunteers from the Wimborne in Bloom organisation, and it is unclear which fundraising events will be able to be held this year.

However, organisers hope to be able to plant up some areas for the summer. Over the years the organisation has won numerous gold and silver gilt awards in both the Britain in Bloom and South and South East in Bloom town categories.

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Famous people who have lived in Wimborne include: Tim Berners Lee, inventor of the World Wide Web; Isaac Gulliver, smuggler; Thomas Hardy, author; Gordon Haskell, musician; Robert Fripp, guitarist in rock band King Crimson and Michael Medwin, actor.

The town is certainly a far cry from the one described

by Sir Frederick Treves in his famous 1906 book Highways and Byways in Dorset.

He was being very harsh when he said he considered Wimborne to be ‘a characterless place that having set its face against any show of individuality has become successfully mediocre’. And it gets worse as he suggested it was ‘best when seen from a distance’.

That is certainly not the Wimborne of 2021 and you will easily discover that for yourself when you visit. To find out the latest news from the town’s local theatre, turn the page.

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BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY / real people, real news, local advertising.

Wimborne bursts back into life

Tivoli to welcome back audiences EXCLUSIVE interview with Charlie North Lewis

By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@mags4dorset.co.uk If there is one facility that people in Wimborne and the wider area have missed during the third lockdown, it is the chance to enjoy live theatre and cinema at the Tivoli.

But you won’t have to wait too long, as Tiv favourites Paul Jones and Dave Kelly will be back in concert on 28 May, and Show of Hands will be staging two performances on 12 June.

Other productions and films will follow, including Jack and the Beanstalk from 2-6 June.

Local people showed their huge support for the theatre by contributing £69,000 to an appeal, and the financial stability of the Tivoli was further strengthened with the

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recent announcement of an award of £144,474 from the Culture Recovery Fund.

Charlie North Lewis, who in July celebrates 19 years as general manager, said that thanks also to the good financial management of Alan Breakwell, chairman of the trustees, the viability of the Tivoli was assured.

About the plans to ensure the theatre is Covid secure he said: “We will take the names of everyone who attends a production and even when we’ve passed 21 June when hopefully all restrictions will be lifted, we will retain the Covid seating plan for the first two weeks. However we hope that

by September and October we will be back to full seating capacity.”

Charlie is both pragmatic and optimistic.

“The restrictions of the pandemic will make people appreciate the freedom of going to the theatre once again.”

When Charlie took up the reins in 2002, he said that his ambition had been to see Ronnie Wood and Charlie Watts on the Wimborne stage, and he achieved that in addition to

a plethora of iconic names like Robert Plant, Ginger Baker, Jo Brown and Francis Rossi.

Regular Tivoli favourities such as the Blues Band, Marty Wilde, Tallon and the Counterfeit Stones have been booked for the months leading up to Christmas.

“We are very grateful to have the funding from the Culture Recovery Fund, and we plan to provide more community events,” said Charlie, who added that he was really pleased with the continuing high standards and success of Wimborne Drama Productions which plans to stage Towards Zero by Agatha Christie and Gerald Verner from 21-23 October.

Charlie also praised the many volunteers, particularly those in the box office, who have had to deal with rescheduled performances.

“We are confident that once we are underway, we will get back to normal, and will be so pleased to welcome back our loyal audiences,” said Charlie.

To book tickets for the Tivoli call 01202 885566 or visit the website.

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Wimborne bursts back into life

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

Fantastic fundraising for foodbank Wimborne Rotarians have recently received a big “thank you” for their fundraising efforts during the pandemic. Over the last 12 months members have been unable to meet up for their usual lunches and fundraising events and instead they decided to generously donate their ‘missed lunch’ money in support of the local foodbank. Their magnificent £9,200 donation got a huge socially distanced “thank you” from the Wimborne foodbank volunteers.

Thinking of travelling abroad with your pet?

By Vetsmiths, www.vetsmiths.co.uk Pet travel within Europe has changed (EU Pet Passports are no longer valid and will not be accepted), so if you’re considering a post-Covid trip abroad when allowed, you now need to be issued with an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) from an Official Vet (OV).

You should contact your vet well in advance of any travel dates to ensure everything is in place. This includes: • Your pet must be microchipped • Your pet must be vaccinated against rabies (and must be at least 12 weeks old before they can be vaccinated) • A period of 21 days must pass after the primary

vaccination before travel • The AHC must be provided by the OV no more than 10 days prior to travel • Tapeworm treatment for dogs is also required if travelling to Finland, Eire, Northern Ireland, Norway and Malta • Entry into the EU must be via a designated Travellers' Point of Entry.

• When returning to GB, the AHC used for initial entry can be used for up to four months after issue.

To avoid any disappointment with your travel plans, make sure to speak to your vet now.

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BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY / real people, real news, local advertising.

Wimborne town crier argues the case for vaccination Chris Brown, Wimborne and Colehill town crier and town mayor’s serjant who missed out on the polio vaccination and went on to contract the disease, shares his thoughts with readers.

By Chris Brown “I have been perplexed and worried about some of the comments and concerns regarding the Covid-19 vaccine that is currently being rolled out in response to the worldwide pandemic.

“I do accept that people have valid questions about the new vaccines, the speed in which they have been developed and produced being one of them. Although vaccine development really

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DORSET VIEW May 2021

is more difficult than ‘rocket science’, there is no doubt that the immediate availability of funding from governments, without the usual long and complicated funding application processes, has significantly reduced the most time-consuming aspects of the development of new vaccines. Without these lengthy funding delays, the scientists have actually been able to get on with what they do best, scientific development, the results of which have been the production of these life-saving new vaccines. There is surely a lesson here for the future structure of scientific research and funding in this country.

“There is no doubt that in the past, there have been regulatory mistakes, and even crimes in medical research and development, not just vaccines. The thalidomide scandal potentially being the most public, scandalous and devastating, and one which has been incorrectly used by Covid-19 anti-

vaxxers as an example of the untrustworthiness of the scientific and pharmaceutical establishment. Thalidomide was not a vaccine; this however, does not negate the absolutely shocking way those affected and their families were treated for far too many years.

“My story is grounded in what was chirpily labelled ‘The Summer Plague’ – poliomyelitis. Know anyone who had it? No? Do you know why? Because everyone is immunised against it. That is why there are no longer any annual summer outbreaks of polio, devastating individuals and families. We have herd immunity thanks to an efficient and effective childhood immunisation programme, which thankfully involves the majority of people. But be in no doubt, anti-vaxxers not immunising their children will weaken that herd immunity and open the door to the devastating outbreaks we suffered in the past.

“Polio is a devastating, frequently fatal virus that lives in water; in particular it prefers warm water, because that is when it gets a chance to infect more people. Who doesn’t fancy a cooling swim in the summer? But it isn't really that fussy, and is happy to get you any way it can if you have the misfortune to ingest untreated, or inadequately treated, water.

“The dreadful damage this disease causes is as wicked as they come. Once in your body via whatever water-borne route it shows no mercy.

“I was born in September 1956 and was a healthy welldeveloped toddler who was on the way to walking, when we had a Butlin's holiday in Prestatyn, North Wales in the summer of 1957. Upon our return home I had developed

a cold, and my mother asked our family doctor if it was OK to proceed with the appointment for the new vaccine to protect me from polio. The doctor advised it was best to wait until I was clear of the cold.

However, it wasn’t a cold at all because I then developed the classic symptoms of polio, and within days I was in an iron lung unable to breathe unaided and struggling to survive.

“If I had been able to have had the vaccine and avoided contracting polio, I would not have spent much of my youth in hospital, missing out on many ‘normal’ things and having a life time spent in pain, which has been excruciating and debilitating. I have lost count of the number of operations to try and correct the damage left by the polio, I compartmentalise my life into blocks of time spent in different hospitals.

“In later life I worked as an independent chairman reviewing cases in child protection and children in care, and was shocked to discover how many children had not completed the routine of vaccinations against killer diseases. So not only were these children at enormous disadvantage from social and family circumstances, they were under considerable threat from completely avoidable ailments. I am pleased to say that I was able to change many of the opinions by simply telling them a little of my own story and what I had been through.

“I urge all to read scientific evidence about the Covid-19 vaccines and dismiss the scare mongering and extremely foolish conspiracy theories that are circulating. Your life and the lives of those you love, your neighbours, friends, people in your community, all those could literally depend in it.”

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pets and wildlife / an animals eyes speak a poweful language.

Tips on walking your dog The past year has seen an increase in dog ownership, but do you know how long and how often you should walk your canine friend?

The experts at Kennelstore say that one of the most important factors is the breed.

There are some dog breeds that are more energetic and excitable than others, and because of this, they will need more frequent and vigorous exercise. Furthermore, there are other breeds that have instinctive preferences for play and exercise that they were purposely bred for.

According to a PDSA animal wellbeing report, 13 per cent of dogs within the UK are not walked daily.

In general most dogs benefit from between 30 minutes and two hours of physical activity per day.

So let’s look at the amount of exercise needed by specific breeds.

The Yorkshire Terrier,

Maltese, King Charles Spaniel, Miniature Dachshund, Pomeranian, Chihuahua, Bichon Frise, Papillion, Pekingese and Miniature Pinscher need at least 30 minutes of daily exercise.

However it is recommended that the Bull Terrier, Cocker Spaniel, English Bulldog, Miniature Poodle, Pug, Miniature Schnauzer, Shih Tzu, Lhasa Apso, Shetland Sheepdog, Cairn Terrier, Whippet, West Highland Terrier, Tibetan Terrier, Dogue de Bordeaux, Basset Hound, Saint Bernard, Border Terrier and Staffordshire Bull Terrier breeds should have at least one hour of daily exercise.

And for the larger breeds such as the Border Collie, Siberian Husky, Labrador Retriever, German Shepherd, Dalmatian, Boxer, Golden Retriever, Samoyed, Alaskan Malamute, English Springer Spaniel and Weimaraner it is two hours.

And there are top tips for walking your dog.

Bring some water if the walk is longer than an hour; change the route to keep the dog stimulated; ask before

approaching other dogs; let your dog sniff around; always carry poo bags; make sure your dog has a collar on and wear reflective clothing if walking after dark.

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New discovery reveals the cause of grape poisoning in dogs

By Lynwood Vets Last month the veterinary world was buzzing with the news that a long-standing mystery had finally been solved.

It has long been known that grapes and raisins can be highly poisonous to dogs – in some cases an alarmingly small amount was enough to lead to death. What has confused vets for decades is that in other cases, dogs had eaten larger amounts without becoming ill.

It was clear that some unknown toxic substance (which was obviously safe for humans to ingest) was present in grapes in variable quantities. Without being able to predict how dangerous it is, our advice has become that any ingestion could be fatal.

To be on the safe side, every case should be seen for treatment immediately and may need to be hospitalised on fluids for at least 48 hours, even though this is probably not necessary in many cases.

This may now change, following a report from the Animal Poison Control Centre in the US. They noticed that a number of dogs that had died after ingestion of cream of tartar had identical clinical findings to those with grape toxicity. The chemical ingredient, tartaric acid is known to be uniquely present in grapes and tamarinds, a fact that has been well known to the wine making industry for decades.

Dogs may be particularly sensitive to the toxic effects of this substance because they absorb tartaric acid very rapidly, before the gut can denature it. Interestingly, tartaric acid salts are removed by the wine making process, explaining why toxicosis is not seen after wine ingestion. That may have been an interesting and amusing study to perform.

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DORSET VIEW May 2021

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around & about

Billionaire Boy by Birmingham Stage Company 14 April, Canford Park Arena Review by Karen Wyatt-Epapara Billionaire Boy is a heart-warming story about the value of friendship and how money can’t buy love.

Based on the book by David Walliams, this musical stage version amused with his trademark sense of humour.

Designed for a stage truck tour, the set was simple, but effective, and the cast small, with most actors taking on multiple roles. Set changes took place as the actors came on or left the stage, reducing the need for stage hands.

To keep the performances Covid-safe, the audience watched from their cars, tuned into the sound via their car radios. The action on the stage was relayed to a big screen so those at the back could see.

This was an ingenious way to allow a live event to take place within Covid restrictions. It was a real treat to see a quality performance by professional actors enhanced, no doubt, by the sheer joy for them of being able to work and engage with audiences in a world where that has not been possible.

Unique prize for photographers on FORM

Ferndown events to go ahead Ferndown’s Fete on the Field and the Ferndown 5K and 10K Charity Run will go ahead this summer.

Event director George Phillips reported that there will be a number of changes made to the fete, which is held on the King George V Recreation Ground, to ensure it is Covid-safe. These include the spreading out of stalls, to allow for social distancing.

The fete will take place on Saturday 19 June from 11am until 5pm, with the 10k/5k happening on Sunday 20 June.

Entrance to the fete continues to be free, with all profits going to charity. There will be stalls, entertainment, a funfair and food and drink.

More information is available at www.ferndownfotf.org.

FORM – The Sculpture Exhibition at Sculpture by the Lakes near Dorchester, features some 200 sculptures across 26 acres of lakes, rivers, gardens, and woodlands.

If you enjoy photography this exhibition, which runs until 16 May, presents an opportunity to enter a competition being held by sculptor and owner of the lakes, Simon Gudgeon.

The prize will be exclusive use of the Island venue at the lakes with entry for two and the special ‘tiffin picnic’ from the on-site café. The prize will also include coverage of the winning photo on social media platforms.

Simon Gudgeon said: “There are some very unique picture opportunities on offer. We’ve got a polar bear sitting on an iceberg in one of the lakes, swans taking a break on the riverbank, figurative sculptures admiring the views – it’s a photographer’s dream.”

• The competition allows for one entry per person. Entries close on 16 May at 5pm, with judging by Simon and his wife Monique.

• To enter, share your image on social media with the hashtag: #FORM2021.

• For more information visit www.gallerybythelakes.co.uk/form • Entry to the lakes costs £12.50. Tickets currently must be booked in advance to maintain social distancing.

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“Embarrassed to live in Dorset”

By Janine Pulford

Have you lost pride in Dorset due to the excessive amount of litter on roadside verges?

When discussing the subject recently on Dorset View’s social media sites, residents agreed that the volume of litter on roadside verges is shameful. (See Letters page for some of the comments).

“Our county is disgraceful,” said Jacqueline Moss who has reported the litter problem to Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole (BCP) and Dorset councils.

Although both councils recently cleaned the A338 spur road the work was long overdue.

Councillor Jill Haynes, Dorset Council’s portfolio holder for Customer and Community Services, said that arranging litter picking on high-speed roads takes a great deal of planning and some activities had been “delayed due to the challenges presented by the pandemic.”

The A338 had to be closed in both directions while crews removed the litter.

A Dorset Council spokesperson said approximately 240 bags of litter were collected.

Just two days after the big clean up, the litterlouts had returned. An inspection by a Dorset View reporter revealed items of litter strewn along both carriageways with noticeably more on the northbound route where some detritus looked as if it had blown off commercial vehicles.

James Potten, business partner – Place Communications & Engagement Team, Dorset Council said: “It’s evident some of the roadside rubbish we pick

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DORSET VIEW May 2021

has come from unsecured loads from industrial/commercial vehicles, but the principle is the same as if someone litters from a car or van. Any waste that gets discarded incorrectly – purposely or not – is treated as litter and the driver is liable to enforcement action.”

Other litter hotspots pointed out by residents included Christchurch bypass and the road between Canford Bottom roundabout and West Moors. Three Legged Cross to West Moors Road was called a “favoured dumping ground,” by Judie Jones.

The A31 was criticised heavily with the section from the Lidl roundabout in Ferndown to the industrial estate called “awful,” by Kathy Allen.

Elsewhere in Ferndown the story is the same: “KFC litter… packaging and food thrown in roads around Ferndown.

Noticeably Woodside Road and Ringwood Road,” said Warren Brown.

And Pauline Smith said; “I walked along Ringwood Road as far as McDonalds. The amount of rubbish along that section was disgusting.”

Wendy Coldrick said she was “embarrassed to live in Dorset.”

Not all the roads in Dorset come under the responsibility of Dorset Council.

Christchurch bypass for instance is BCP’s responsibility as is the largest part of the A338.

Both councils point out that the litter isn’t created by them, but by motorists who discard rubbish illegally. Some fly-tip in quantity.

Cllr Mark Anderson, portfolio holder for Environment, Cleansing and Waste, BCP Council said: “Unfortunately, there is always a lot of litter dumped on the roadside by drivers who seem unaware of their contribution to soil and water pollution.”

Dorset Council is continuing its fight against roadside litter. Overnight litter picking on the A31 from the River Stour to the county boundary was scheduled in, and in places litter picking was carried out.

However, the pristine result was shortlived as commercial vehicles and motorists soon offloaded more rubbish along the highway, which gave the impression the verges had not been cleaned.

Councillor Jill Haynes said as there were not the resources to litter pick

every verge in the council area “we focus our attention on the busiest A roads, which need strict health and safety considerations.”

She thanked volunteers and community groups for their continued efforts to keep rural verges litter free.

Dorset Council is supporting this year’s #LoveYourVerge campaign with ‘pop-up’ signage on roadsides across Dorset to encourage residents and visitors to value verges and other open spaces.

Residents should report litter problems, fly-tipping and rubbish being thrown from a vehicle online on their local council’s website. Continued pressure to prosecute could bring about change.

A fixed penalty notice can be issued on the spot for littering. Councils set this figure and it’s usually under £100. The maximum FPN fine a local authority can issue for littering is £150. To comment on this or anything else, please write to letters@dorsetview.co.uk

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DORSET VIEW AND VIEWPOINT

Now available at the following supermarkets Co-op Wimborne Co-op Colehill Co-op Sturminster Marshall Sainsbury’s Ferndown Sainsbury’s Christchurch (DORSET VIEW ONLY)

Tesco Ferndown Sainsbury's Ringwood (VIEWPOINT ONLY)

Tesco Ferndown Morrisons Verwood (VIEWPOINT ONLY)

Both magazines are published by Pulford Publicity Ltd.

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CORRESPONDENCE

LITTER

To express your opinion or idea about the commun ity send your letters to letter s@dorsetview.co.uk

– the problem that won’t go away Dorset residents have lost pride in their county due to the excessive amount of litter on roadside verges.

Following the publication of an article about litter by editor Janine Pulford on the dorsetview website, in Viewpoint and on social media we have received over 100 comments.

The general opinion is that the volume of plastic and other rubbish littering roadside verges is ruining the county.

Here is a snapshot of the social media comments, which are all visible on our public forum on Dorset View Facebook page.

(30 March) Grammar, punctuation and spelling errors have not been corrected. Initials have been substituted for names.

To read the full article about litter that created this storm of comments visit www.dorsetview. co.uk and search ‘litter’.

A shortened and updated version is on page 32.

MB

It is totally disgusting the amount of rubbish on the verges. I'm thinking Stour to Henstridge Road, and Gillingham to Shaftesbury.

Both roads not good for litter picking on either, just too busy. People need to think a bit more about where they live. Take your rubbish home with you!!

WH

The A31 from Ferndown to Wimborne is disgusting.

GC

I followed the rubbish truck out of Swanage on Thursday and about 30 pieces of rubbish came flying out of the back, so maybe the council ought to design a better way of keeping it in the truck rather than spreading it all over the road?

LB

It’s disgraceful. We have done litter pucks in our village and within a week there has been more litter dropped. It’s not just kids dropping sweet papers. It wine bottle KFC wrappers, COSTA cups beer bottles. On the country roadsleading to the village it has to have been thrown from cars. We picked up 14 bags on a 500 yard stretch.

If you can carry it there, carry it home and put it in your bin

DH

this is the same as Ringwood road Verwood. The rubbish lorries come out of both waste sites and rubbish just fly's out the top as the covers aren't put on properly. The waste on the side of the road is disgusting.

PB

AH

A 351 painstakingly cleared by group of volunteers a couple of weeks ago. I noticed yesterday that there was a huge quantity of litter on the verge again. I find it hard to contemplate the mentality of the people doing the littering.

CP

DM

I've noticed this my self, between Ferndown and Wimborne A31it doesn't look good, waste lorrys don't help if not covered correctly.

From my many visits to Eastern European countries is it very much the normal to see the roads littered in this way lack of resources and respect sad to see it appearing in the UK.

SB

I have noticed recently how disgusting the amount of litter has built up beside the A35 East of Bridport all the way to Winterbourne Abbas.

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DORSET VIEW May 2021

I noticed it last year A31 Wimborne bypass all disgusting, plastic sheeting caught up in trees from lorries, plastic bottles with urine , in the verges & on the Puddletown bypass a deer carcass rotting for the last few months , came up the A30 from Cornwall last week gotta say same down there , in fact it’s the worse I’ve ever seen it & I average 30,000 miles per year, this was an issue before covid , now exacerbated by covid ,

WVA

I have noticed an alarming increase of roadside litter lately. I am of the opinion that camera surveillance should allow offenders to be caught and as punishment made to clean up the roadside verges!

SF

The Ferndown Bypass is an absolute disgrace and has been for months!

EH

Why is litter so much worse in Dorset. I have just spent time in Devon and there is hardly any litter on the roadside..

CF

I couldn’t believe my eyes earlier in the week when we were on the Ferndown Bypass - it was horrendous the amount of rubbish.

And indeed all the way from Dorchester to Oxford wasn’t much better.

MT

We followed a council bin lorry going up the blandford bypass with rubbish freely blowing out the back of it on the way to the council waste transfer site, maybe this is why the bypass is so bad !!!!!!!!

VD

Unfortunately this plague is everywhere now. The only way I can see to tackling this menace is to prosecute MaccyD's, Costa etc. because they're the ultimate cause.

Living alone and no support?

There must be many elderly people in this unfortunate category, estranged from their family for whatever reason, frequently no family left or perhaps never had family and with friends who have moved away or even passed away all diminishing with the passage of time.

They may also be unfortunate in being unable to obtain financial support from the social services as their savings are above the £23,000 limit. It sounds a lot but if you have a series of domestic replacements: boiler, washing machine, freezer or a serious defect in the house itself, your savings can be chipped away and you can never replace them.

This scenario could probably result in not being able to afford to pay for a daily carer to call (they are expensive at around £20 per hour) and may result in your annual expenditure exceeding your income if you engaged one.

If taken ill, or perhaps falling at home, you may be unable to use a phone to call for help, and we all know of stories of this nature.

It is vital that you do have someone in regular contact with you each day to avoid such an occurrence and this is where the reassurance call scheme comes in.

I can only quote from the source I used, although there may be other companies who offer the service, and I do not know if local councils or the NHS do anything of this nature.

I use Lifeline 24, they provide a system whereby if you get into difficulties, you press the call button they supply (this incurs an annual rental) and they will ring you. If you do not answer they will call the emergency services after first contacting, if possible, a named neighbour to determine what the problem is.

That’s all very well if you are conscious, however if not, you could be in trouble but this is where their reassurance scheme works.

They call YOU every day or on specified days and at a specific time that you stipulate, so you have the assurance that someone knows you are alive and kicking.

This can be very reassuring to someone living alone.

The re-assurance scheme is billed monthly (by direct debit) and a call every day (28 to 31 a month) costs me £19.20 per month, but this may be because I am renting the main system, (£160 per year in 2017), so you need to look into the full costings.

All I can say is that it is reassuring.

Ken Horton West Moors

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in the home

Creating a space of your own

By Karen Wyatt-Epapara

Having spent so much time at home over the past year, I became all too aware that I didn’t have space of my own to relax in so I often found myself going to the kitchen and, inevitably, doing some sort of housework.

Something had to give, and so began the creation of my reading nook, which is now installed in the corner of the bedroom.

Our home is a cosy, old farm cottage, so I wanted a space that fitted with the style of the house, while providing some comfort and with a contemporary feel.

First, we took the chimney breast back to brick and uncovered a simple but stylish iron grate. We removed the inherited carpet and found natural floorboards. A day with

asymmetrical shape of this one.

The final touch was to add books and plants. I chose a snake plant and an aloe vera as both are known to be natural air purifiers that can help you sleep.

As someone who values their time alone, this is a space that is not only inviting and comfy, but also a very necessary spot for uninterrupted respite and relaxation.

a hired floor sander, and a steep learning curve in how to use it, resulted in a stunning floor that was finished with two coats of pine stain and one clear one.

We bought an old scaffolding plank that was stained to match the floor and fastened to the wall with heavyduty brackets to contrast with the white walls.

I chose a sofa that would complement the rich colours of the wood and would be a statement piece too. I love the deep green colour and the

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

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

CHARTERED SURVEYOR

Advertise here

Call 01202 870270 CARPENTRY

COMPUTER SERVICES

DECORATING

FENCING

LANDSCAPING

PLUMBING & HEATING

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DORSET VIEW May 2021

FENCING

PEST CONTROL

TREE SURGERY

LANDSCAPING

ROOFING

TREE SURGERY

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Quiz page

Eye eye!

CROSSWORD 1

Here’s a quiz to test your powers of observation. It was submitted by local artist Jill McKay. Study the four photographs of eyes and try to work out which bird, animal or reptile they belong to. Answers will be given next month so note your answers in the spaces underneath the eyes.

Clues: ACROSS 1. Domesticated (5) 4. You coat your chips with this red stuff (5) 7. Mollusc (4) 8. Smelly (7) 9. Founder of the People’s Republic of China (first name) (3) 10. Hold royal office (5) 11. You put it up when it rains (6) 13. Opportunity (6) 16. Slips uncontrollably (5) 18. Singular (3) 19. Threatening (7) 20. Nothing (4) 21. Opposite of day (5) 22. Boy’s name (5) 1.

2.

3.

7.

Corny jokes to make you groan What do you do with a sick boat?

Take it to the dock.

What do hermit crabs do when they find a new home?

Have a shell-ebration.

When the ocean left the beach what did it do?

Waved.

When the tide came back in what did the sand say?

Long time, no sea.

A lobster went to the doctor and said he wasn’t feeling well The doctor asked him to be more Pacific.

DOWN 1. Hunting breed of dog (6) 2. Warm-blooded animal (6) 3. Hanging down (6) 4. River in Wimborne (5) 5. State of perfection (7) 6 Soul (7) 11. Woodwind instrument (7) 12. Gap (7) 13. Selected (6) 14. Programme (6) 15. Shrink in fear (6) 17. Robust (5) 4.

5.

6.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

16.

14.

15.

17.

18.

19.

21.

Across: 1. Tamed 4. Sauce 7. Clam 8. Odorous 9. Mao 10. Reign 11. Brolly 13. Chance 16. Slews 18. One 19. Ominous 20. None 21. Night 22. Neale Down: 1. Toller 2. Mammal 3. Droopy 4. Stour 5. Utopian 6. Essence 11. Bassoon 12. Opening 13. Chosen 14. Agenda 15. Cringe 17. Stout

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20.

22.

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motoring / keeping you on the road.

Catalytic converter thefts rise Campaign launched to There has been a recent spate of catalytic converter thefts from across the county warns Hampshire Constabulary. reduce motorcycle collisions vehicles Catalytic converters have been reported stolen in Poulner Dorset Police is working on a campaign with DocBike and Dorset Road Safe Partnership to buck the trend in springtime biker fatalities.

‘Think bike, Have You Been Seen’ runs from 1 April to 31 October. All road users are being encouraged to take that extra bit of time, particularly at junctions.

Motorists will see unique THINK BIKE! signs. And motorcyclists will be reminded that they may not have been seen by other road users, even though they have right of way, with HAVE YOU BEEN SEEN? road signs. The signs will be placed in key locations where many motorcyclists have been injured in Dorset.

Dr Ian Mew, Intensive Care Consultant and Rider of DocBike, explains: “The problem is, the human brain is not very good at ‘seeing’ small objects travelling towards it at speed. A high proportion of motorcycle collisions on Dorset roads occur when another vehicle pulls into the path of a motorcycle, which is unable to stop in time.”

Inspector Joe Pardey from Dorset Police said every year motorcycle fatalities peak throughout the spring and summer time and that “the causes of collisions are a mixture of rider error and drivers not looking properly.”

He was concerned that when lockdown is released traffic volumes will increase with collisions becoming more likely.

In Dorset, per mile travelled, more motorcyclists will be killed or critically injured than any other road user. Nationally, approximately 10 motorcyclists are killed or seriously injured every day.

(Ringwood) as well as New Milton and Lymington.

They can be removed within a few minutes by using just a few basic tools.

However, there are ways you can protect your vehicle if, like many people, you don’t have access to a garage: • Find out where your catalytic converter is located on your car; if it’s at the front, park with the bonnet towards a wall if possible • If it’s at the back, park your vehicle with your exhaust to the wall • If parking in a public car park, consider parking alongside other cars / incorporating wall • Avoid parking half on the pavement and half on the road, as this may make it easier for a thief to get under your car • If your catalytic converter is bolted on, you can ask for your local garage to weld the bolts to make it more difficult to remove • You can also etch a serial number on the converter so that if it is stolen and then recovered, the police can get your cat converter back to you • You could consider purchasing a ‘cage clamp’ which is a cage device that locks in around the converter to make it more difficult to remove • Speak to your dealership or garage about the possibility of adding a tilt sensor that will activate the alarm should any thief try to jack the vehicle up to steal the converter If you see someone acting suspiciously under a vehicle report it to the police. Obtain as much information as possible, including any vehicle registrations.

In the event your cat converter is stolen, report it to the police online or via 101, or visit your local police website and report through the contact form. For a crime in progress call 999.

Black cab fundraising drive

If you see an iconic black cab motoring around Bournemouth and Poole emblazoned with business logos, you will know it is raising money for charity.

The BC Club, based in Bournemouth and Poole has acquired a London black cab, which each member will have to drive for a week with the aim of raising more than £15,000 for Variety Wessex, a charity that provides support for sick, disabled and disadvantaged children.

Each new driver will pay £250 for the privilege of getting behind the wheel and must do at least 150 miles, as well as making one upgrade to the vehicle.

With 39 members, the BC Club’s taxi will be on the road until Christmas, and members of the public are being encouraged to donate through BC Club's website: www.bc-club.co.uk.

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DORSET VIEW May 2021

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