Viewpoint July 2024

VIEWPOINT

Dear Readers!

It’s a goodbye from Janine, but a very warm welcome to Luke.

Janine Pulford retired as editor at the end of May after 21 years saying she will miss our readers but ‘fiction writing and the British summer beckon’.

She said: “Our new editor has plenty of experience and has made the changeover seamless. In Luke’s hands Viewpoint Magazine can only get better.”

Luke Graham, who has been a journalist since 2015, working for several publications, has been visiting Dorset since 2010 and moved here with his family permanently in 2020.

I had worked as news editor at my previous magazine for many years, and when it closed at the end of 2018, Janine approached me and offered me the same position which I took up in January 2019.

And what a brilliant five and a half years – and counting –it has been.

Janine and indeed the whole team in our office in Ferndown are so talented and good to work with.

I have written for several publications, most of which were owned by the big newspaper groups, so I really appreciate the benefits of working for a family-owned business, who care for their staff.

The ethos has always been to go out into the community, covering events and ensuring that our readers’ voices are heard.

I will miss Janine, as we shared a similar sense of humour, but I am confident that Viewpoint Magazine and Dorset View will continue to go from strength to strength with Luke as editor.

As Janine said – the changeover has been seamless.

Marilyn Barber

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

VIEWPOINT

Ben Pulford managing director

ben@dorsetview.co.uk

Louis Pulford creative director DD 01202 233441

louis@brightboxdesigns.co.uk

Janine Pulford director janine@dorsetview.co.uk

Nick Pulford company secretary accounts@pulfordpublicity.co.uk

NEWS DESK

01202 870270

Luke Graham editor luke@dorsetview.co.uk

Marilyn Barber news editor newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk

Jecs Davies journalist & social media creator jecs@dorsetview.co.uk

Rebecca Smith proofreader rebecca@dorsetview.co.uk

ADVERTISING

01202 816140

Mark Beechey account manager DD 01202 941465

mark@dorsetview.co.uk

Simon Thornton account manager DD 01202 941470

simon@dorsetview.co.uk Calls may be recorded for training and quality purposes.

DESIGN TEAM

Dexter Elliott graphic designer designstudio@pulfordpublicity.co.uk

LOGISTICS

Mike Talbot

Email: news@dorsetview.co.uk

Web: www.dorsetview.co.uk

Pulford Publicity, Dana House, Spinneys Lane, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9BZ /dorsetview.news

@Dorset_View @dorset_view @dorset.view /dorsetview

VIEWPOINT is independently published and distributed free to homes and businesses in selected areas of Dorset and Hampshire. 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

Soaking up the sun by Old Harry Rocks © Louis Pulford

Fun day out in Ferndown

By Janine Pulford | Images © Viewpoint

Spectators enjoyed arena events, stalls and stage shows at the Fete on the Field in Ferndown on 15 June. Entertainment included Charlotte Geary, a steel band, Irish dancers, Crazy Kev and Liberty’s falconry flying display. The dog show attracted a flurry of interest as did the food and drink. Classic cars and a fire engine were popular, especially with the little ones who were planning their futures.

Charity holds grand opening

Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s disability charity, celebrated the launch of its new adventure and activity centre, The Treehouse, with a grand opening in June.

The event was held to thank the volunteers and supporters who helped to build the centre.

Based on the site of Adventure Wonderland in Hurn, The Treehouse includes a soft play, learning kitchen, sensory room, games room and cinema room.

Diverse Abilities acquired the site in January, and thanks to hundreds of volunteers, The Treehouse was renovated by Easter. The charity is planning to make The Treehouse

its main office and bring many of its services into the purpose-built space.

Attendees at the grand opening included representatives from local businesses who provided sponsorship, volunteers, and Bournemouth Town Mayor George Farquhar.

The Mayor said: “I’m absolutely blown away by the amount of work, generosity and fundraising that went into the facility.”

The Treehouse is available to hire for schools, charities and community groups. For more information, visit diverseabilities.org. uk/thetreehouse

The Treehouse contains a large indoor soft play © Viewpoint Magazine

More support to help Dorset families

Children’s services in Dorset are to undergo a major reform to help keep families together.

Theresa Leavy, Dorset Council’s executive director for children’s services, said: “We’ve called this our Families First for Children Pathfinder because one of the key principles of our new way of working is that we put children and their families first. They lead on the decision-making and tell us or other support groups in their community, what help they think they need in order to keep their family together.”

Dorset Council expects that by working differently there will be fewer children on child protection plans, fewer children in care and more children will be supported to stay with their birth families.

Those children who can’t stay with their birth parents will be supported to stay with other members of their family or kinship carers.

Family Networks will be identified by families themselves and could include extended family members as well as friends or non-family members such as faith group representatives or community volunteers.

Dorset Council recognises that not everyone will have a family network around them, so the new network of Family Hubs will offer a welcoming place that families can go to if they need information, advice or help.

Ferndown furniture store to close after 52 years

The founder of David Phipp House Furnisher in Ferndown has announced plans to retire and close the store from 30 September.

According to the family, the decision was not taken lightly. After much deliberation due to David Phipp suffering a recent bout of ill health, they regretfully decided that it is finally time to close their doors.

Since opening their first shop in 1972, the family has greatly valued the support of their customers and their local community.

David said: “None of this would have been possible without the loyal custom and the incredible dedication of our staff, whom I consider family. I have loved every minute; I am very lucky to be able to say that.

“We will close the doors in September after 52 years – I will miss it dearly.”

The directors of David Phipp House Furnisher are inviting the public to a retirement and closing down sale, where everything must go. Since Monday 24 June, all items in the store have been reduced in price by at least 35% and are available for immediate delivery.

They are dedicated to ensuring a smooth transition for their customers and employees in the coming weeks as they proceed with the winding down process and assure that all outstanding obligations to their customers will be fulfilled.

Over the coming weeks, David Phipp and his family hope customers, old and new, will visit them, if only to say goodbye. They look forward to welcoming customers one last time.

Solar farm plan refused by New Forest

Plans to build more than 12,000 solar panels on a farm in the New Forest have been unanimously refused by planning committee.

The proposal to build the solar panels, plus two sub stations, on greenfield site at Thornlands Farm near Fletchwood Lane in Netley Marsh would cover an area as big as nearly 14 football pitches.

However, the plan was refused by the New Forest National Park Authority Planning Committee as it went against national policy, primary legislation and the New Forest’s Local Plan.

At the meeting on 18 June, the committee were told the development was considered a ‘major development’ and there is

a long-standing planning policy to refuse such developments in national parks. The committee were also told that the solar farm was not linked to providing energy to a local business or community, nor did the plans consider the grazing needs of local livestock.

Gordon Bailey, chair of the New Forest NPA Planning

Committee, said: “The Committee decided to refuse this application as the scale of it was not considered to be appropriate in the protected national park landscape setting and the applicant hadn’t adequately demonstrated that it needed to be located here rather than on an alternative site outside the national park.”

Who you gonna call? Parley First School

You could say there was “something strange in the neighbourhood” when a Ghostbusters car arrived in the playground of Parley First School recently.

Teacher Austyn Brown brought his exact replica of the Ectomobile from the 1984 film into the school as an end-ofyear treat for the children.

The Ghostbustersobsessed teacher has spent a decade adapting the 22ft-long 1963 Cadillac Superior ambulance.

‘Ecto-1’ is screen accurate

and has all the gadgets and ghostbusting equipment that made the original movie such a worldwide hit.

Austyn recently appeared as an extra in the latest instalment of the franchise, ‘Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire’.

Austyn said: “I started collecting pieces for the car a decade ago and brought this over from America four years ago.

“Everything is as accurate as I can make it and some of the parts were extremely difficult to find.”

Parley First School is part of the Castleman Academy Trust and the school’s headteacher

John Bagwell said: “This will be a day that the children don’t forget in a while.”

Austyn Brown in his Ghostbusters car with his pupils

BCP Council approves new solar farm

The council has granted planning permission for a solar panel farm a few miles south of St Leonards that will power over 18,500 homes a year.

Clean energy company

Enviromena has been granted planning permission by BCP Council for its largest selfdeveloped solar project to date at the 66-hectare Parley Court Solar Farm site Christchurch.

The 42.43 MWp project has been in the planning process since November 2021 and significant engagement and modelling has taken place with the Environment Agency in order to agree a design which includes flood alleviation measures to benefit the site and nearby areas. It’s expected to produce over 51,000 MWhs of green

energy a year, avoiding over 9,500 tonnes of carbon per annum and providing enough energy to power over 18,500 UK homes each year.

Mark Harding, European Development director at Enviromena, said: “With further projects totalling circa 200MW submitted into the planning process in the past few months and a further 300MW expected to be submitted into planning by the end of the summer, we hope that this is the first of many planning consents secured across our self-development pipeline in 2024.”

The location of the future solar farm

Works started on Wimborne Road East

Motorists planning to travel along Wimborne Road East in Ferndown will need to allow extra time for their journey as works began on 1 July.

When completed, Dorset Council says there will be 4.3 miles of uninterrupted access improvements from Wimborne to Trickett’s Cross.

This final phase from Stanfield Road to Brickyard Lane will take place until the end of 2024.

The improvements include: construction of new cycle and walking paths along the north side of Wimborne Road East, with priority over adjoining roads; upgrading the existing signal-controlled crossing near Stanfield Road at the school pedestrian/cycle access; and upgrading of bus stops.

The work will be completed in sections, with temporary one-way closures and traffic signals in place. Road signs have also been erected to inform drivers about the work.

Jack Wiltshire, head of Highways at Dorset Council, said: “This is the final piece in the jigsaw making it easier for people to travel between Ferndown and Wimborne, safely and without the need to depend on a car.

“With better signalling, wider paths and improved bus stops too, we look forward to the completion of this huge project for eastern Dorset.”

Surge in cold calls about personal alarms

Following a number or recent local incidents, Dorset Police’s fraud protection officers have issued a warning to older people who have personal alarms such as medical pendants or wristbands which are used to alert emergency services at the push of a button.

Cold callers are pushing useless white goods and appliance repair cover in an aggressive manner.

This is how they operate.

Cold callers may already have access to your name, age, and even details about your medical conditions. This knowledge can make their calls seem more legitimate.

A common tactic is to offer a free alarm, but then ask for card details to cover subscription costs or a one-time installation fee.

Some callers may falsely claim to be local health workers or representatives from registered health charities, the NHS, or medical researchers. They might say they’re offering a free alarm pendant due to your health conditions.

They often claim to be associated with legitimate companies that provide medical pendants, offering supposed upgrades or replacements, especially with the upcoming switch to digital phone lines by 2025.

Any suspicious activity should be reported to Action Fraud online or call 0300 123 2040.

The solution to your tap water concerns

-Advertisement featureAre you growing concerned about what’s in your tap water?

In recent months, there have been several high-profile news stories warning the public about problems with drinking water in parts of the UK.

Last year, authorities detected potentially toxic chemicals in sources at 17 of England’s 18 water firms. Then in May this year, residents of Brixham in Devon were advised to boil their tap water, after their water company discovered a parasite outbreak in its reservoir. This contamination led to more than 50 people falling ill.

Danny Wills, water treatment expert and owner of Aqua-Tight Solutions, says that because of concerns about contamination, many people are now seeking new ways to ensure their water supply is safe and healthy.

He adds: “Simply put, there’s only two options. The first is to buy bottled water, but this can be costly and creates a lot of plastic waste.

“The second option is to filter your own tap water. This provides clean, healthy, and delicious water on tap, with no plastic bottles, no contaminants, and no fuss.”

Aqua-Tight Solutions has helped hundreds of homes in Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch to improve their water.

“It’s not as expensive as you might think,” says Danny. “From £200 fitted, we can provide a tailored solution for your home.”

To find out more about installing a water filter system, speak to your local water experts Aqua-Tight Solutions on 01202 983858, or visit aqua-tight.co.uk.

Danny Wills

reader wins £60 prize

A Viewpoint Magazine reader has won a £60 voucher to spend on a kebab dinner from a West Moors takeaway.

The winner will be able to spend the voucher on a meal from Mem-Et, Forest Kebab in West Moors.

Gary Archer, from Bournemouth, won the prize by correctly answering that Viewpoint Magazine’s Louis Pulford used the words “crunchy” and “gooey” to describe the mozzarella melters from Forest Kebab in his review.

More than 100 people entered the prize draw, which closed on 31 May. The voucher was posted to Mr Archer the following week.

Two volunteer jobs for Heather

A local young woman has proven that despite learning disabilities you can have a full and meaningful life.

Heather had previously worked as a volunteer in a café in Poole but was keen to try something different.

Employment support provider Pluss worked with Prama Care, and the Blandford shop manager Sandy Miles was happy to take Heather on a trial basis to ensure she felt happy and comfortable in a shop environment.

But while Heather enjoyed the work experience, she said she was interested in working with the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

Pluss contacted the charity and Heather was subsequently accepted as a volunteer, although she still spends a morning a week at Prama Charity Shop in Blandford as she likes being part of the team.

Julia Ingram, Dorset Council Adult Social Care (Operations) director, said: “It is great to celebrate the things people with learning disabilities offer to society and I am so pleased to hear of Heather’s enthusiasm and love of working with the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and how this has been brilliantly facilitated by Pluss.

“It is so important that we ensure that people with learning disabilities in Dorset are able to thrive to the best of their abilities.”

The Ashley Belles choir from Ashley Heath Women’s Institute performed a live show at Moors Manor Care Home in St Leonards. Residents and guests were treated to a selection of songs from pop to musicals.

Heather is now a volunteer with Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance

Take a leap of faith for charity

Registrations have opened for the Lewis-Manning Hospice Care Skydive, which takes place on Saturday 21 September at Old Sarum Airfield in Salisbury.

Participants will be taking an adrenaline-pumping 10,000ft leap into the skies to raise essential funds and awareness of the hospice nurses and the vital services they provide for the community at Lewis-Manning.

This unique event not only promises an unforgettable experience but also offers participants a chance to learn more about the incredible work that the hospice nurses do supporting patients and their families impacted by life limiting illnesses across Poole, East Dorset, Purbeck and West Hampshire. Skydivers will be paired up with a hospice nurse and will support the work they do in hospice hubs

and in patient’s homes.

On 4 July, a Meet the Nurses event was held at the hospice in Poole, where prospective skydivers visited the hospice and got to hear about the vital work first-hand from the clinical team.

The nurses are proudly supporting the campaign, and many have signed up to skydive themselves. Staff Nurse Hannah Quick said: “I have seen first-hand the amazing people this money will support. My patients show me every day how brave and courageous they are, so I feel it’s only right for me to do something out of my comfort zone.”

Among the brave individuals taking part is Ian Girling, CEO of Dorset Chamber of Commerce. With a life-long fear of heights, Ian is facing the challenge head-on.

Ian said: “I cannot wait to

skydive for Lewis-Manning. I have been absolutely terrified of heights my whole life and even experience vertigo when looking up at the sky.

“When I was asked to take part, I realised it would be a great opportunity to face my biggest fears, as well as raise money for a vital cause. The nurses

at Lewis-Manning need our help, and I am proud to support them as much as I can, to allow them to continue delivering extraordinary hospice care.” To sign up to the event and jump for a nurse, or to find out more information, visit the website lewis-manning. org.uk/skydive.

Welcome to Kelly Rogers

By Meesons & Spurlings Solicitors

Meesons & Spurlings Solicitors are delighted to welcome Kelly Rogers, the newest addition to their legal team in Ringwood. With an impressive legal career spanning over 15 years, Kelly brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the firm, particularly in the areas of Probate, Wills, and Powers of Attorney.

Kelly qualified as a solicitor in 2008 and has since dedicated her career to helping clients navigate this often complex and sensitive area of law. Her commitment to excellence is demonstrated by her accreditations with two prestigious professional organisations: STEP (Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners) and The Association of Lifetime Lawyers (formerly ‘Solicitors for the Elderly’).

Understanding that legal matters can often be daunting and complex, Kelly’s objective is to create an environment where clients feel comfortable and at ease. She excels in explaining legal matters in

plain English, helping clients navigate even the most challenging of situations with confidence and peace of mind.

As Kelly joins the Ringwood office, Meesons & Spurlings are confident that she will be an invaluable asset to both their team and their clients. Her dedication to providing compassionate and knowledgeable legal guidance aligns perfectly with the values upheld at Meesons & Spurlings.

They warmly welcome Kelly Rogers to the firm and look forward to the positive impact she will undoubtedly have on the community and clients.

Paris Olympics beckon for three Dorset athletes

Three athletes from Dorset will be joining the British Sailing Team at the 2024 Olympic Games in France.

This year’s sailing competition will feature 330 athletes from 54 countries, with races being held at Marseille, Frioul, Corniche and Calanques.

Five members of the British Sailing Team have competed in the Olympics before, while the remaining nine are making their debut.

Among this year’s roster are three athletes who live in Dorset.

Emma Wilson, who lives in Portland, will compete in windsurfing. The 25-year-old won bronze in Tokyo 2020.

Also from Portland is Saskia Tidey. Born in Ireland, she will be sailing a skiff alongside teammate Freya Black. Saskia came in 12th place in Rio 2016 and 6th in 2020. Earlier this year, she won bronze at the European Championships. Will this be Saskia’s time to claim gold?

Finally, there is Ellie Aldridge from Poole, who started sailing aged seven. She is competing in the women’s kite foiling, a new event at the Olympics where athletes reach speeds of up to 50mph. Ellie was European champion in 2023 and has won four world championship medals in the past three years.

Throughout the 117-year history of the Olympic Games, Team GB has excelled at sailing, winning a total of 64 medals including 31 gold –more than any other nation, and 11 more than secondplaced United States on the all-time medal table.

The Paris 2024 Olympics start on 26 July until 11 August. Emma and Saskia will be competing from 28 July, while Ellie will be competing from 4 August.

Emma Wilson © Lloyd Images

Saskia Tidey © Nick Dempsey/RYA

Ellie Aldridge © British Olympic Association

ringwood news

Disappointment as annual pedal car race cancelled

The British Pedal Car Grand Prix, due to be held in Ringwood on 7 July, was forced to cancel with only a few weeks’ notice due to financial pressures.

The highly anticipated race was due to return for its 37th event, with up to 40 teams of experienced and junior racers from across the country dashing through the town centre in home-made pedal cars.

Unfortunately, organisers made the tough choice to cancel the event, announcing their decision on 20 June – just over

two weeks before the event was set to begin. The team behind the event said the decision was not made lightly and was taken after extensive deliberation and consultation with stakeholders.

According to a statement on their website and Facebook page, the organisers had to take the drastic action due to several unforeseen circumstances, especially the mounting financial challenge of running the event. Due to significant cost increases, as well as several local businesses ceasing or reducing their sponsorship, it was no longer feasible to put on the Grand Prix.

James Marley, chairman of the organising team, said: “We understand the disappointment this cancellation brings to our dedicated teams, sponsors, and fans who have eagerly anticipated this event.

“We’re devastated that we’ve had to take this decision,

but with the increase in costs to run the Grand Prix, plus the challenging financial climate that has limited the amount that our sponsors can contribute to the event, it’s unfortunately the only decision that we could make.”

Several fans and participants reacted to the Facebook announcement with a mix of support, sympathy and frustration, with one person claiming he had just finished making £250-worth of repairs and improvements to his team’s car.

Another fan of the race, Alan Goodman, expressed his disappointment to Viewpoint Magazine

“I’m very disappointed, always love that event. A great day out every year,” said Alan from Hertfordshire, who has competed in the Grand Prix several times and was part of the winning team last year.

He added: “I feel really sorry for the organisers who have obviously put a lot of time and effort in, and I hope they manage to sort out the

financial issues and bring the event back next year.”

The Grand Prix first took place in 1987 and was originally inspired by car races held in Ringwood’s twin town of PontAudemer in Normandy. For many years, the race alternated with one held in New Milton, but this came to an end in 2019 due to the escalating cost of the event.

After a four-year hiatus, the Grand Prix returned to Ringwood in 2022 and was held again in 2023.

Despite the setback this year, the organisers state they are committed to the future of the event and have begun planning for the race to return next year, with an even more exciting event. Fingers crossed race fans won’t be disappointed again in 2025.

The charity Helping Older People (HOPe) New Forest is looking to recruit volunteers in the Ringwood & Fordingbridge area.

HOPe is dedicated to improving the wellbeing of the elderly by offering two services. The first, Befriending, tackles loneliness and isolation, while Support offers impartial advice, information and help

with form filling. These services are offered at the recipient’s home and at no charge.

Laura Davy, support associate at HOPe New Forest, said: “We desperately need volunteers to help us grow this important service and to be part of our wonderful team.” Visit hopenewforest. org/volunteering for more information.

Justice for Ashley Heath car crash victim

A second driver has been jailed for causing a fatal collision in 2023

A dangerous driver from London has been sent to prison for his part in causing the death of a man from Hampshire.

In June 2023, 31-year-old George Greaves was killed in a car crash near to the Ashley Heath Roundabout on the northbound carriageway of the A338. He was sitting in the front passenger seat of a Nissan Micra which collided with a Lexus GS300.

Mr Greaves was pronounced dead at the scene, and two other people in the car were taken to hospital to treat serious injuries.

Witnesses said the Lexus appeared to be racing against two other vehicles, including a Mercedes AMG, and were travelling “like a bullet”. Several witnesses said they felt they were “going to kill someone”.

The vehicles were undertaking traffic and swerving between lanes at high speed, going faster than 80mph in the moments before the crash.

As the two vehicles came up behind the Nissan carrying

Mr Greaves, the Mercedes swerved into the nearside lane to undertake it while the Lexus collided with the nearside of the Nissan, causing it to lose control.

Following investigations, the driver of the Lexus – Yusuf Muzil, a 23-year-old from London – was charged and later sentenced on 29 September to 12 years in prison for causing death by dangerous driving, plus two charges of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

In November, police identified and arrested a second driver, 30-year-old Dannie Thomas O’Leary, also from London, who was behind the wheel of the Mercedes.

On the night of the collision, O’Leary did not stop his vehicle and drove off from the scene.

Last month at Bournemouth Crown Court, O’Leary pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and two offences of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

He was sentenced to 14 years and four months in prison.

Man jailed for criminal acts in Ringwood

A Bournemouth man was jailed for five weeks following several incidents which occurred in Ringwood at the beginning of the year.

Jordan Ashley Burnell, of Cecil Road, was sentenced at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Friday 7 June. He was found guilty of assault, shoplifting and two counts of criminal damage, all on one evening in January.

The incidents occurred at three businesses on Butlers Lane in Poulner, beginning at 8.10pm on Monday 8 January.

Burnell, who pleaded

guilty to the offences, entered Tesco and attempted to steal two bottles of wine, but was challenged by a staff member whom he then assaulted by pushing and punching.

Following this, Burnell headbutted and damaged a window at Belinda’s Bakery, before then headbutting and damaging another window at Wine Box while attempting to resist arrest.

As well as spending time behind bars, the 28-yearold was also ordered to pay £50 in compensation.

Sergeant Dave Cotterill, of the Roads Policing Team, said: “Our thoughts remain very much with the family of George Greaves and those who were seriously injured as a result of this collision.

“Dannie O’Leary’s reckless and inconsiderate driving

undoubtedly was a significant factor in causing this collision, which has had truly devastating consequences for the family and loved ones of Mr Greaves.”

A third driver has admitted to a charge of dangerous driving and is due to be sentenced at Bournemouth Crown Court.

Rockford Lake angler hit with a £400 fine

A Bournemouth man has been fined more than £400 after he was caught fishing in Ringwood without a licence by the Environment Agency.

On 2 March, Tommy Jay Rose, from Kittiwake Close, Bournemouth, was using an unlicensed rod and line to fish at Rockford Lake, where fishing is regulated.

The 26-year-old submitted a guilty plea in his absence to the charge at Northampton Magistrates Court on 3 June. He was fined £192 and ordered to pay £135 costs and a £76 victim surcharge – a total of £403.

Lewis Swift, fisheries enforcement officer at the Environment Agency, said: “Buying a rod licence is not expensive. Getting caught fishing without one is. Most anglers carry one. The few that don’t, take a big risk and will be caught and prosecuted.”

Anyone aged 13 or over who

wants to fish in a river, canal or still water needs a licence. A one-day licence costs from £6, while an annual licence costs from £30. Junior licences are free for 13 to 16-year-olds.

Licences are available from gov. uk/get-a-fishing-licence or by calling the Environment Agency on 0344 800 5386.

Fishing without a licence can prove costly

Victim George Greaves

The shops where the crimes occurred

Blood donors urgently needed across the country

The NHS Blood and Transplant service issued an urgent appeal for blood donations in June to boost stocks of O type blood following a cyberattack in London.

The IT incident meant that many hospitals could not match patients to the right blood type as quickly as usual. To allow surgeries and procedures to take place, hospitals needed to use O type blood as this is safe for all patients. This has meant that some operations and appointments have been postponed or diverted to other hospitals.

Blood only has a shelf life of 35 days, and so stocks need to be continually replenished.

O negative is the universal blood type. It can be given to anyone and so it is carried by emergency services, but only eight per cent of population has this type of blood. Meanwhile, O positive is the most common blood type – 35 per cent of donors have it – and it can be given

to anyone with a positive blood type. This benefits three out of every four people.

According to the NHS, three blood donations are needed every minute in hospitals to deal with emergencies, childbirth and routine treatments.

Even if you don’t know your blood type, the NHS is urging donors to come forward.

Dr Gail Miflin, chief medical officer of NHS Blood and

Transplant, said: “We have availability for donors who know they are type O but we also welcome new donors who don’t yet know their blood type. You might have one of these special types that can be used in emergencies.”

The nearest donor centres to Dorset and BCP residents are in Poole in The Dolphin Centre and in Southampton, but there

are also regular donation days held in community venues across the county including at The Barrington in Ferndown, The Hub in Verwood, Moordown’s Life Centre, Wimborne’s Allendale Centre, and the Church of Jesus Christ in Christchurch. To find out more information and to book an appointment at your nearest donation centre, visit blood.co.uk.

Could help you live a healthier life? coaching

-Advertisement feature-

Did you know that LiveWell, Dorset’s free health and wellbeing service, offers coaching?

LiveWell recognises that making a lifestyle change like quitting smoking, managing weight, moving more or drinking less, can be challenging.

A coach will encourage you to stay on track with useful tips and techniques, as LiveWell’s Susan explained: “Coaching is that extra little push a person needs

to unlock their potential, to see beyond their limits. Coaches are like supportive friends — we never judge.”

An important first step in building a healthy lifestyle is knowing what you want to achieve. A coach will look at where you are now, where you want to be and set a realistic goal. This will include looking at any barriers and working on ways to overcome them.

Coaches understand the problems people face when trying to make a healthy

change — the temptations, the pitfalls, the days when you have just had enough. Coaching support can be a real gamechanger when the going gets tough.

Coaching takes place 1:1 over the phone, across six sessions that each last for around 20 minutes. Sessions are flexible to fit around busy lives. Register for support at https:// my.livewelldorset.co.uk/register or call 0800 840 1628.

Land Girls raise £700 for SPRING

SPRING, a family support service that provides a high level of care to families that have experienced baby loss, received £700 from a Land Girls gig which took place at Haskins Ferndown recently.

SPRING, which is part of University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity, is Haskins’ chosen charity for the year.

Louise Chissell, a member of SPRING’s steering group, said: “These fundraisers help us continue to provide the vital support needed for parents and relatives who face the unimaginable loss of a baby at any stage of pregnancy.

“We cannot help parents across Dorset without the support of the local community.”

Haskins Ferndown also supported Forest Holme Hospice by donating 80 bedding plants for the care facility’s Tie a Yellow Ribbon Day. The garden centre has also recently provided benches to High Mead Community Therapy Farm, for use by the animal and horticultural teams at the site.

Advice Bus celebrates its first birthday

Citizens Advice celebrated the first anniversary of its Advice Bus in June, which has helped over 1,000 residents in the East Dorset and Purbeck areas with free advice and support.

The Advice Bus is operated five days a week by two advisors. Over 300 of the people helped by the bus in its first year were brand new to Citizens Advice’s service. Common issues faced by residents include debt, claiming benefits and housing.

The bus stops at locations across East Dorset and Purbeck including St Leonards, Verwood and West Moors.

Katrina Ford, business development manager at Citizens Advice East Dorset & Purbeck, said: “In these challenging times, local communities are really welcoming of the bus service. It has given much needed support to those who live in rurally isolated communities and who may not necessarily have been able to access existing services. In some cases, it’s been a lifeline to people.

“As an independent charity, we rely upon grants and donations to fund our service. It costs £40,000 to run the Advice Bus for a year. We would love to hear from any business, organisation or individuals who would be willing to support us.”

To find out when and where the Advice Bus stops, go online to edpcitizensadvice.org.uk/get-advice/advice-bus.

SPRING’s Louise Chissell, third from left, with Haskins staff and the Land Girls

© Citizens Advice East Dorset & Purbeck

verwood news

NEWS IN BRIEF

Waste recycling

Verwoodians on Waste are holding their next recycling surgery at the Verwood Heathland Centre on Saturday 3 August from 9.30-10.30am.

This event is held on the first Saturday of every month. Items that can be recycled include padlocks, keys, Brita water filters, Gillette razors, medicine blister packs, cables and wires, mobile phones, Kindles and iPads, foreign currency and flat daily newspapers.

Dog walking appeal

The Cinnamon Trust – the national charity supporting the elderly and terminally ill and their much-loved pets – is in desperate need of volunteers. These will help to keep owners and pets together either by walking a dog for a housebound owner or fostering pets when the owner is in hospital. If you can only offer an hour a week, it will improve a pet’s quality of life and give the owner peace of mind. Contact Sally on 01736 758707 or email volunteer@cinnamon.org.uk.

Help for over 50s

Help is available in Verwood for the over 50s. Verwood Information for Older People Service (iOPS) can help with such things as information on benefits and allowances, trusted tradesmen, keeping safe at home, staying fit and healthy and local transport information.

Friendship club

Older people living in Verwood and the surrounding area can enjoy the companionship of others at Verwood Friendship Club which takes place at Verwood Memorial Hall on the second Thursday of each month from 2.15-4.15pm. The club has guest speakers, musical entertainment and occasional outings. Contact Lesley Ralph on 01202 827457 or email lesley59@talktalk.net.

Good neighbours

People over the age of 50 without their own transport and having difficulty getting to the surgery, dentist or hospital can take advantage of Good Neighbours. Clients will be asked for a small donation, which can be cash or cheques payable to V.A.G.N Drivers are CRB checked, and volunteers are always required. There is normally four days’ notice required. The helpline on 07593 373580 is manned from 10am to noon or call Geoff on 01202 821583.

Busy year ahead for Rotary Club

By Louisa Hiscock, Verwood Rotary Club

Our current Rotary year came to an end in June, but we have not slowed down: we were pleased to take part in Verwood’s D-Day lantern parade organised by Verwood Town Council and help at FarmFest at Sturts Farm. You may have seen some members out on a litter pick with our Rotary tent set up on Ferrett Green.

The second breakfast meeting of the Verwood Business Network sponsored by our club took place on 12 June. If you are interested in joining this growing group of local businesses, more details are on our website and Facebook page.

We also took part in the National Rotary KidsOut Day. This nationwide day out started over 30 years ago for children living with health or special needs. Our club supported a day trip to Marwell Zoo for students from the Sheiling School; it is always lovely to see the students and staff enjoying themselves.

Peter Campbell, our new president, is already planning a very busy year ahead with lots of ideas for getting involved and supporting our local community as much as possible. Peter has chosen the Helix Day

Centre in Verwood as his President’s Charity for the year. Helix provides a wide variety of activities to support adults with different learning needs. Club members look forward to fundraising to support the amazing work they do as part of our local community.

There is no time to rest with the Rustic Fayre coming up on August Bank Holiday Monday at Potterne Park. Please put the date in your diary – and if you would like to help as a volunteer, please contact our Rustic Chair Vern Harris on 01202 82400 or via our website verwoodrotary.org.uk.

Club members (and club dog) at the D-Day Lantern Parade

Firefighters tackle landfill blaze

A huge fire erupted at the Blue Haze landfill site off Verwood Road on 18 June, requiring several firefighter crews to tackle the blaze.

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service received reports of the fire at 11.44pm that evening, and mobilised four fire engines from Verwood, Ferndown and Ringwood, plus two support appliances from Poole.

But this was not enough, and firefighters needed more support to control the blaze. Neighbouring Hampshire and Isle of White Fire and Rescue Service sent water carriers from Ringwood and Eastleigh, as well as fire engines from Fordingbridge and Burley.

The crews fought the blaze throughout the night and were still dampening down the area until the early hours of the morning.

A spokesperson for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “Four main lines were used to extinguish the fire and the incident was left open for a re-inspection in the morning. This was completed and the stop was received at 9.04am. We don’t know the cause of this fire.”

Images © Ferndown Fire Station Facebook page

The history of our water mills

By Julian Hewitt | Fordingbridge Museum

The use of waterpower machinery dates back to the ancient Greek, Egyptian and Chinese cultures. The Domesday Book of 1086 records 6,000 watermills in England, and by the sixteenth century water was the most important source of power in the country.

Water is usually stored in a mill pond and routed to the mill via a mill race. This, to a certain extent, overcomes seasonal differences in the availability of water. The water wheels that drove the machinery are of three sorts. Undershot wheels are ones where the water hits the wheel paddles at the bottom of the wheel. Breastshot is where the water hits the paddles halfway up the

wheel and overshot is where the water hits the wheel at the top.

The problem with undershot wheels is, because the paddles at the bottom of the wheel are immersed in the water, this impedes the speed of the wheel. With an overshot wheel the water coming in from the top fills buckets on the wheel which then discharge the water back into the river as the wheel turns. This makes overshot wheels about two and a half times more efficient than undershot ones.

Power from the turning wheels can be used for milling of grain, rolling, hammering or sawing as well as driving other mechanisms such as sack hoists. Elm was used for the paddles because it is resistant

to rot. Cogs were made from applewood, hornbeam or beech. The wheels and shafts were made of oak and the dowels, which held the wooden parts together, were made of holly. With the introduction of cast iron, metal was used for submerged parts and the larger gear wheels. Millstones were imported from Germany in Roman times and from France in the Middle Ages. Later, millstone grit from Derbyshire was used. The two stones had to be kept full of grain when running, to keep them apart, so that they did not overheat or wear out. Heat generated by friction between the moving parts of the mill mechanism combined with the grain dust in the air meant fire was a constant danger.

There are many water mill buildings in the area.

Winchester City Mill, owned by the National Trust, is the oldest working watermill in the country with a reference to it in 932 AD. Most of the present internal structure dates to the fourteenth and fifteenth century.

Alderholt Mill, pictured, dates from the fourteenth

century and was still working commercially until 1942. It was restored in 1987 and is still used for grinding corn using a locally made breastshot cast iron wheel dating from 1850. The mill sells delicious cream teas at the weekend using their own flour.

Harnham Mill was built in the twelfth century and in the sixteenth century was made into one of the first paper mills in the country. An unusual water-driven mill is Ealing Tide Mill. At full tide, seawater is trapped in a lagoon and used to drive the mill. It is one of only two such mills in the UK and was restored to working order in 1980. The industrial revolution saw more reliable steam power replace waterpower and this led to the closure of many water mills because mills could be located anywhere and were not tied to sources of water.

Fordingbridge Museum is housed in an old corn mill building that was powered by a steam engine. The remains of the steam engine mechanism can still be seen at the rear of the building as can the sack hoist housing at the side.

Alderholt Mill dates from the fourteenth century

Back with a bang

Get ready for a packed day of fun as the annual Fordingbridge Festival returns.

Preparations are busily underway for the annual Fordingbridge Festival on 20 July.

Held on Fordingbridge Recreation Ground (post code SP6 1AN), visitors are promised a day filled with thrilling performances and family-friendly activities, starting from midday until 6pm. And this year entry is free.

This year’s event will feature market stalls, fairgound rides, live music and children’s entertainment. Organised by a group of dedicated volunteers from Fordingbridge in collaboration with the town council, the festival is designed to bring the community together. This year’s event will feature food vendors selling cuisine and locally brewed beers and ales, as well as arts and craft stalls showcasing

unique handmade products.

Live music will kick off at 1pm with a performance from John Wines, aka The Old Grey Guitarist, who auditioned for the TV Show ‘America’s Got Talent’ in 2023. At 4pm, Lucy Loves Liquor will perform a set of rock covers from the 80s, 90s and 2000s.

And possibly the highlight of the day will be the famous Fordingbridge Duck Race at 3pm. Organised by the Rotary Club of Fordingbridge, hundreds of yellow rubber ducks will race downriver. Tickets are on sale now with proceeds going to local projects, and the ticketholder of the winning duck is promised £500.

The Fordingbridge Festival is set to be a day filled with great music and memorable moments, so don’t miss it.

© Fordingbridge Events Group

© Fordingbridge Events Group

© Fordingbridge Events Group

ENTERTAIN THE KIDS FOR LESS THIS SUMMER

Save money on food and activities in July and August.

Are you dreading the expense of the summer holidays? With schools across the county shutting for around six weeks, many parents, grandparents and carers may be wondering how to entertain children throughout July and August – without breaking the bank.

Fortunately, there are options to have fun while spending less. There are affordable – and in some cases, free – holiday clubs throughout Dorset, free events, and lots of offers and discounts for kids during the summer months. Here is just a small selection of ideas:

FREE AND CHEAP KIDS’ MEALS

Tesco

From 22 July to 30 August except weekends, kids can eat a free breakfast, lunch or meal deal in Tesco Cafés with any adult purchase – which can cost as little as 60p. There are cafés available in the Fleetsbridge, Tower Park and Bournemouth Tesco Extras.

Morrisons

Kids eat free when adults spend over £5 on a meal in a Morrisons Café. There is one available in Verwood.

Sainsbury’s

Children can get a hot meal or lunch bag for £1 when adults spend at least £5.20 on food in the supermarket’s café. There are Sainsbury’s Cafés available in Talbot Heath and Castlepoint.

Free splash parks and paddling pools

If you don’t fancy facing crowds of tourists at the beach, try one of Dorset’s many free splash parks.

Christchurch Quay has the Quomps splash park, featuring water jets and sprays, while Upton Country Park in Poole turns on its splash fountains from 11am ‘til 1pm and 2pm to 4pm every day until the end of September.

In Bournemouth, there is a splash park in Boscombe Chine Gardens, two paddling pools in Redhill Park and the parkland at the Littledown Centre, and sprinkler fountains by the pier.

Trips to the cinema

Seeing a film on the big screen doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg.

The Odeon in Bournemouth will sell family tickets every day during the school holidays, where adults pay children’s ticket prices. The Cineworld in Poole also offers a family ticket where adults pay kids’ prices on certain films.

Meanwhile, the Allendale Centre in Wimborne is hosting a summer season of free family films. Starting with Peter Pan on 25 July, there’s a screening every Thursday at 1pm until 29 August.

Free events

On 2 August from 10am-1pm, Blandford Forum Town Council is hosting a day of free entertainment at Woodhouse Gardens, with a circus workshop, balloon modelling and a magic and juggling show.

Or if your little one is a history fan, they may enjoy Wimborne Minster’s new monthly Mayoral Walks, where local experts will lead them on a journey through the history and culture of the town. Taking place on 21 July and 18 August at 11am from the Square, the walk will last approximately one hour and is suitable for all ages. The event is free, but donations to local charities would be gratefully received.

Low-cost holiday clubs

Mackenzie’s Holiday Club is running from 24 July until 30 August at Magna Academy School in Canford Heath, offering sports, games and team-building activities. Sessions run from 8am to 4pm and are free for children receiving benefit-based free school meals. Suitable for kids aged five to 13. Email mackenziesholidayclub@ outlook.com to book.

Meanwhile, Treads and Blandford Youth Centre are hosting a summer holiday club from 29 July to 9 August,

Asda

Children under 16 can eat for £1 in the Asda Café in Poole. This can be a hot meal or a lunch bag and includes a free piece of fruit.

Beefeater

Two children under 16 can eat breakfast for free with every adult breakfast bought for £10.99 at Beefeater restaurants. There are branches in Ferndown, Christchurch and Weymouth.

The Coconut Tree

From 22 July until 6 August, kids can eat free at The Coconut Tree in Bournemouth. One child aged 10 and under eats free per paying adult.

Dunelm

Kids can enjoy a free meal deal with every £4 spent in the Pausa Café. There are Dunelm branches in Bournemouth, Weymouth, Southampton and Salisbury.

aimed at children aged five to 12. It is free to children receiving benefit-based free school meals, and £25 for all others. Email youthsupport@treads.org.uk to book. In Ringwood, Little Bear Woods is hosting holiday clubs in its woodland setting on 12, 13, 19 and 20 August for children aged four to 14. Sessions are from 9am to 4pm and cost £34.50. Visit littlebearwoods.co.uk to book.

pets and wildlife

Farmers install bird boxes to help struggling swifts

More than 30 bird boxes have been installed on farms across Hampshire, Dorset and Wiltshire to help swifts find suitable places to nest.

Swifts are on the list of species considered to be in danger of extinction, and data shows their population has declined by 75 per cent over the past 30 years. They migrate from Africa every spring, but upon returning many will struggle to find a nesting site.

Swifts tend to nest higher up below the eaves of houses, in walls and below roofs, but modern houses do not offer access to these cavities and many older buildings are being restored and insulated, which unfortunately blocks potential nest spaces.

Megan Lock, farmland biodiversity advisor for Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT), noted that swifts

were nowhere to be seen while conducting a survey of the Allenford and Martin Down Farmer Clusters south and south-west of Salisbury. When the farmers were told about this, they asked for help to entice swifts back to nest on their farms.

Thanks to funding from The Swire Charitable Trust through GWCT, Fordingbridge Greener Living and a Hampshire County Councillor Grant from Cllr Edward Heron, Megan and her team of volunteers have been able to install 31 nest boxes on farmhouses and other farm buildings across the cluster.

Volunteers from Hampshire Swifts spent three days with Megan visiting farms to install the boxes, as well as eight sound callers which help to attract swifts towards the nesting sites

Managing your pet’s arthritis pain

By Tom Carter, Cedar Vets

Hello reader, my name is Tom and I’m the new vet at the Ringwood branch of Cedar Vets. I graduated a couple of years ago, and as well as surgery and emergency work, I’d like to share with you another of my veterinary passions: arthritis management.

A lecturer once said to me: “Animals don’t slow down because they’re old. Age is not a disease.” And that’s stuck with me.

People often accept their furry friends slowing down as they get old as something normal. But unfortunately, it does represent a level of pain, and that’s absolutely something you can work with your vet to improve.

Arthritis management has changed enormously in recent years, with new medications, a better understanding of the important lifestyle

changes necessary and a better understanding of the disease itself. With the right pain management and lifestyle changes, vets find that we’re often able to make a massive difference to an animal’s quality of life.

As a vet, nothing brings me more joy than a call from an owner telling me that their dog is like a puppy again. So, if you feel your dog or cat is struggling on their feet, give the team at Cedar a call. We’re all happy to help.

by playing out their call.

Megan said: “It’s been fantastic. We’ve covered an area from Salisbury to Fordingbridge to Cranborne – the clusters together cover 17,500 hectares.

“These boxes provide man-made nesting sites, which helps to create those sites that are disappearing, and the callers let the swifts know they are there, which greatly increases the chances of swifts using the boxes.”

Wendy Reid, of Fordingbridge Greener Living, said: “We are really excited to

be able to expand the project from outside of Fordingbridge into the local farms and rural areas outside the town.

“Over the next three to five years, we would like to see the numbers of swifts improve as more nest sites become available for them.”

© David Moreton

© Hampshire Swifts

© GWCT

Shake & Stir Festival brings vintage fun to Southbourne

Report and photos by Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk

The Shake & Stir Vintage Festival celebrated its 10th anniversary event over the weekend of 22 and 23 June and it was clear to see why it has always been greeted with huge enthusiasm by visitors.

It was so much fun with lots to see and take part in.

This nostalgic dip back into the past was awarded the ‘Best Event of the Year’ in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole’s DMB tourism awards in 2022 and 2023 and this year’s festival lived up to expectations. Visitors were able to enjoy an eclectic line up of performances spanning the 1920s to the 1970s – and it was all free.

Entertainment included the Sounds Like Fun and Resonate choirs, Andy Kennett as Billy Fury and Peter Gill as Jerry Lee Lewis, plus a number of other artists. And there was the chance to dance too!

Many got into the spirit of the weekend, dressing in outfits from the various decades, particularly the 1950s. Sponsors included Pulford Publicity.

Lytchett lad wins Dorset Junior Chef of the Year

An aspiring chef has won the title of Dorset Junior Chef of the Year 2024 in this year’s South West Chef of the Year cooking competition.

Harry Mason, a 12-year-old student at Lytchett Minster School near Poole, was the

youngest competitor in the final at Weymouth College, where he competed against

three other aspiring chefs: Florence, 15, and Lucia, also 15, both from Clayesmore School, Blandford Forum and Rose, 14, from Gillingham Secondary School.

Despite the age gap, Harry’s dish of Dorset fillet of beef with Blue Vinny sauce, pommes Anna, burnt Roscoff onions and asparagus was judged to be the best of the group.

Competition co-founder, chef Michael Caines MBE DL, said the standard of cooking in the Junior finals continued

to improve year-on-year.

He said: “It is a very well-deserved win for Harry, whose use of regional ingredients was excellent.”

Harry will now go forward to compete in the final against the winners of five other county competitions on 5 October.

The overall winner of South West Junior Chef of the Year will be offered work experience with a Michelin-starred chef, and all six county finalists will get the opportunity to go to the FutureChef regional final in January 2025.

Ringwood restaurant introduces Tuk Tuk garden lunch

Ringwood’s India Cottage has announced a new addition to its menu: the ‘Tuk Tuk Garden Lunch’.

The Indian restaurant will now offer a dedicated lunch service from 12noon to 2pm, seven days a week.

The lunch service is intended to cater to local businesses and working professionals, so that it fits within their lunch break.

“This is a significant milestone for us,” says India Cottage’s Sarah Choudhury. “Having been in the Indian food industry for many years, I am thrilled to bring this new venture to life. It’s an opportunity to offer something to our community which I believe is in demand and that can be enjoyed during the day in our serene garden setting.”

India Cottage has been

operating in the town for over 43 years. In 2022, it was recognised by TripAdvisor as a Travellers’ Choice award winner for being in the top 10 per cent of restaurants worldwide.

Harry with judges Alan Kelly (left) and Jamie Jones

From left to right: Dorset junior chef finalists Rose, Harry, Lucia and Florence

Images © South West Chef of the Year

Events

Details were correct at the time of going to print. Send information about your events to newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk.

Until 2 August

Memories of the Railway in Ringwood exhibition at Ringwood Meeting House and History Centre.

16 July 7.30pm

The Ringwood Society presents a talk in Greyfriars Community Centre by local historian Mary Baldwin about the town’s former cinema building. Tickets £5. Further details on ringwoodsociety.org.uk/events.

17 July 7pm

Ringwood’s branch of the Hampshire Genealogical Society talk by Neil McLocklin about the English Civil War in Ringwood Meeting House.

19-21 July

Tolpuddle Martyrs Festival DT2 7EH. For tickets, visit tolpuddlemartyrs.org.uk/festival.

19-21 July

Wareham Carnival at the recreation ground.

21 July 1pm

Garden party at Brackenwood, God’s Blessing Lane, Holt, BH21 7DD in aid of Dorset Cancer Centre and Wimborne Scout Group. Contact Fay on 01202 885685.

21 July 11am

Guided walk around Wimborne Minster. Starts in the Square and lasts approximately one hour, just turn up. Free, but donations to the Mayor’s charities welcomed.

25-28 July

Camp Bestival at Lulworth Castle. Book tickets at dorset. campbestival.net/weekend-tickets.

26 and 27 July

Proms in the Park at Meyrick Park, Bournemouth.

26 July 10am-3pm

Poole Leisure Painters meet at Lighthouse Poole. Contact secretary 01202 693526.

26-28 July

Poole Harbour Festival at Baiter Park, Poole. 50 acts across four stages. Tickets at pooleharbourfestival.com.

26-28 July

Bournemouth Reggae Weekender at Kings Park. Tickets from bournemouthreggaeweekender. co.uk

26 July-4 August

Circus Vegas at Branksome Recreation Ground, BH12 2AL. Tickets from 07494 774008 or 07494 774009.

27 July 10am-3pm

Artisan Makers Market at Wimborne Community Centre, King Street Car Park, 41-44 King Street, Wimborne BH21 1EA.

27 July 11am

Damerham Fair and Horticultural Show SP6 3HU.

28 July 11am-4pm

Family fun day at Littledown Park

29 July 7.30pm-9.30pm

Fordingbridge Garden Club meets at Avonway Community Centre, 36 Shaftesbury Street, Fordingbridge, SP6 1JF.

30 July 7.30pm

West Parley Gardening Club meets at the MS Centre, West Parley. For members’ summer show. Visitors welcome £3. For further details, please contact Rod Darch via email at rod@rdconsulting. co or call 01202 896711.

30-31 July and 1 August

New Forest and Hampshire County Show at New Park, Brockenhurst, Hampshire, SO42 7QH.

1 August 7.30pm

Verwood and District Horticultural Society meets at Verwood Memorial Hall. Details on www. verwoodhorticulturalsociety.co.uk or call Ollie on 01202 827622.

3 August 2pm-4pm

Ferndown Arthritis and Friendship Club meets at Ferndown Plus Day Centre. Entertainment and afternoon tea. Door to door service. Call for more info O3303 112793.

3 August 12noon–10pm Stompin’ on the Quomps in Christchurch

3 August 2.30pm

Old Time Music Hall at the Allendale Centre, tickets from the centre.

6 August 2.30pm-4pm

Bits & Bytes Computer Club in Ferndown library. See neilbarton. co.uk/bnbclub.html.

8 and 15 August

Poole Quay summer fireworks, free event with entertainment and finale at 10pm.

10 August

Ellingham Show at Somerley Park, Ringwood BH24 3PL.

10 August 10am-2pm

Summer fete on the green outside the Neighbourhood Centre, Canford Heath attended by Mayor and Mayoress of Poole.

10-26 August

10.30am-4.30pm

Hillview Art Open Studio event at Hillview, Linwood, Ringwood BH24 3QT. Free entry. Homemade refreshments and a garage sale in aid of wildlife charities.

14 August 6.30pm-9pm

Bournemouth Big Band, Swing and Jazz Club meet downstairs in Kinson Community Centre. Full details on www. bournemouthjazzclub.org

14-15 August

Gillingham and Shaftesbury Show. Tickets from gillinghamandshaftesburyshow. co.uk.

15-18 August

Purbeck Valley Folk Festival. Tickets from purbeckvalleyfolkfestival.co.uk.

Rare moment caught on camera as rhea lays egg

A visitor to Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park managed to catch a rare and intimate moment as Bubbha, a female rhea – a threatened species of bird originally from South American and smaller than an emu – laid her egg.

Mike was visiting Farmer Palmer’s with his family when he spotted the birds acting unusually.

He said: “I was taking my three-yearold around on the go-karts when I saw the rhea circling another rhea on the floor. I assumed the one lying down was unwell, so we stopped for a few minutes to observe.

“Interestingly, the rhea that was lying down appeared to be aggressively pecking at the circling Rhea, so I assumed it was defending itself. I then noted the standing rhea to be adjusting and ‘puckering’ before I saw a flash of yellow. I then got my phone to record”.

In Mike’s footage, Bubbha lays her egg – which is the size of 10 to 12

chicken eggs – and then casually walks away. The bird sitting on the ground then rolls the egg under itself into a nest.

That’s because, surprisingly, female rheas are non-maternal. Instead, it is the male’s job to collect and look after the egg. The bird sitting on the ground at Farmer Palmer’s was in fact the father, Rayas. When the males sit on their nest, they can feel protective and defensive, therefore they keep females and people away. So, the team at the park is respecting his space by keeping their distance whilst making sure the rheas are looked after.

Bubbha was brought to Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park more than 13 years ago, when she was just six weeks old.

Poole Harbour Festival brings a feast of music to town

If you missed Glastonbury and you haven’t got tickets for music festivals in Reading and Leeds in August, there’s no need to despair as you can enjoy an event on your doorstep.

Headlining the three-day Poole Harbour Festival in Baiter Park – which runs from Friday 26 to Sunday 28 July – are ‘America’ and ‘Golden Touch’ hitmakers Razorlight, alongside revitalised indie legends The Coral, 90s festival favourites Reef, ‘Dancing in the Moonlight’ stars Toploader, and The South, featuring former members of serial chart toppers The Beautiful South.

Dance music fans will be itching to see garage duo Artful Dodger, Euphoria queen Lisa Lashes and Cream’s Seb Fontaine, as well as top 10 chart act Ultrabeat and cut-n-paste king Jaguar Skills.

With more than 50 acts across four stages, there’s a full programme of top UK tributes to the likes of Queen, Madness, Ed Sheeran, Amy Winehouse and Fleetwood Mac.

Festival organiser Serena Wren said: “The big names bring the stardust, but Poole Harbour Festival is a celebration of local creativity as well and we’re proud to showcase brilliant bands and artists from this area’s vibrant live music scene.

“This year we’ve lined up some special treats with bands like Blackwater County, Mother Ukers – who performed at the Wimborne Minster Folk Festival –Sixteen String Jack and the brilliant Gaz Brookfield.” Visit pooleharbourfestival.com for more information.

A visitor to Farmer Palmer’s filmed Bubbha just before she laid her egg

80s pop star to play The Barn

The singer of 1980s classics ‘Poison Arrow’ and ‘The Look of Love’, Martin Fry, will be performing at The Barn in Ringwood during his ‘A Lexicon Of Life’ UK tour.

Fry is the frontman for English pop band ABC, who achieved 10 UK and five US top 40 hit singles between 1981 and 1990, and their 1982 debut album ‘The Lexicon of Love’ was a UK number one. Fry continues to be active in the music industry, and supported Robbie Williams during a tour in 2001, where he played to tens of thousands of fans in stadium concerts across the country.

Fry recalled: “Playing to something approaching 200,000 people at Milton Keynes Bowl for three nights was something I never thought would happen. But it did. Robbie’s tour felt like being part of a medieval kingdom. It must have been like that when they took Henry VIII to Agincourt.”

Earlier this year, Fry completed a sell-out tour of the UK performing hits from ‘The Lexicon of Love’ while accompanied by an orchestra, and in August and September he will be touring the US.

Beginning in October, Fry’s next tour will be more stripped back, as the popstar will share stories from his life and play acoustic versions of his songs.

“It’s been a wild ride,” said Fry. “And the incredible thing is that as I hit the road with ‘A Lexicon of Life’, I feel as though I’m just getting started.”

Fry will be performing at The Barn in Ringwood on Wednesday 28 May 2025. Tickets are available from thebarnringwood. co.uk/event/85344

A whole season of fun at Kingston Lacy

-Advertisement feature-

Prepare for a whole festival of fun this summer at Kingston Lacy, with dancing, storytelling, activities and adventures galore from 20 July.

The team are so excited for the summer they have put aside a whole field for families to party, with picnic benches and lots of space for everyone. There are plenty of activities to discover every day: go in the tickle tunnel, pick up a hula hoop or challenge your friends on a bouncy fruits race track. There’s a rolling programme of events throughout the summer holidays, with something different every week. Will you take home a clay tablet with your name in hieroglyphs, create a home for bugs or make a monster finger puppet to frighten your friends? There are storytelling sessions, yoga and dance parties to get you moving and craft activities to inspire your creativity.

Elsewhere at Kingston Lacy, you’ll find an animal shapes trail, giant snakes and ladders and chess set, and two permanent play areas. Visitors can bring their own food and drink or pick up everything from a much-needed coffee to an essential ice cream at the refreshment trailer or the Stables café, where there are sandwiches, lunches and, of course, scones.

You’ll want to spend the whole day here, so round up friends and family for a summer sunshine play date to remember. There’s something to entertain everyone from the littlest babies to the oldest great-grandparents; there will even be clog dancers, a choir and the outdoor theatre magic of Dr Doolittle.

Check out all the dates and times on the website www. nationaltrust.org.uk/kingston-lacy, then put on your dancing shoes and come on over to join this summer’s best party.

Verwood choir launches new youth group

A music group in Verwood is launching a new youth choir for children and young adults aged seven to 17.

Formed in 2018, Vocalize Choir is an adult group performing pop, rock, soul and Motown tunes. The choir was set up by husband-andwife team Jamie and Stephanie Down in Alderholt, before moving to a larger venue in Verwood. Vocalize Choir now has over 40 regular members, creates an annual show, and performs at local events throughout the year.

They are now establishing the Vocalize Youth choir, aimed at offering kids, teens and young adults the chance to perform on stage.

Stephanie said: “Whether you love pop, rap, rock or musical theatre, there will be something for everyone.

“As a Vocalize Youth member, you will learn to sing in a group, bust some moves with epic but simple choreography, get the chance to take lead parts or even solos, and to top it all off, perform in your very own shows.”

Rehearsals will take place every Thursday from 5-7pm at The Helix, 17 Moorlands Road, BH31 7PD.

A free taster session is being held on 25 July. No prior experience is required. Anyone interested is asked to register by 20 July 2024 by visiting www.vocalize-choir.co.uk or emailing vocalizeyouthchoir@ gmail.com for further information.

An illuminating evening of music in Ringwood

Audiences can look forward to an ‘enlightening’ evening of music in August, when a string trio will be performing classical versions of modern hits by ABBA, Taylor Swift and Adele while surrounded by over 3,000 LED candles.

Organised by Lumos Live, the ‘Sunset Candlelight Experience’ will take place on the grounds of Somerly House in Ringwood.

The outdoor concert on 16 August is part of a series of seven summer shows across the UK at stately homes and local vineyards, with musicians playing songs by modern artists on classical instruments.

Doors open at 6pm and the event finishes at 9.45pm. Finley Kelly, event and operations manager at Lumos Live, said: “We allow photography and videos throughout the whole performance, just so people can really remember how special the occasion is.”

Audience members should bring picnic blankets and camping chairs to sit on, and the recommended minimum age for the show is eight years old. Outside food and drink

is not allowed, but there will be a bar and food vendors. Tickets cost from £20 plus a booking fee, with a percentage of profits going to UK charities. To book, go to bookings.kaboodle. co.uk/book/21845/ticket.

Images © Lumos Live

Wimborne’s professional theatre company announces next show

Interview by Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk

If you

were in the

audience of ‘The Last Tango in Grimley’ at the Allendale Community Centre in May or June this year, you won’t want to miss the next play presented by Grass Roots Theatre Company.

Now the resident professional company at the Allendale, they are to perform ‘A Bunch of Amateurs’ from 15-17 August at 7.30pm with a matinee on Sunday 18 August at 1pm.

Written by Ian Hislop and Nick Newman, it tells the story of a fading Hollywood action hero who arrives in England keen to boost his flagging career. However, he discovers he is in the wrong place at the wrong time. Acting worlds collide as the egotistical star finds himself performing with a bunch of enthusiastic amateurs desperate to save their village theatre from developers. Can the ailing hero overcome his insecurities and find his inner King Lear?

I caught up with one of the actors, Alan Colclough, who will be a familiar face to local theatregoers as he has been in so many productions over the years, playing a huge number of diverse roles. He has performed with Brownsea Open Air Theatre, Castle Players and Broadstone Players Theatre Company to name just a few.

Alan said: “Wimborne had a repertory company called Dramatic Productions which folded at the beginning of the pandemic, but I and other actors felt that Wimborne needed a professional company again, and when we were approached by the Allendale Centre, it all fell into place.”

There are five cast members, but more will be added when necessary.

“It’s important to have the right person for the right role,” said Alan.

Grass Roots members know their lines before they spend just one week in rehearsal ahead of their production the following week.

Alan revealed his secret for learning lines.

“Constant repetition is the answer for me. I learn a scene before I go to bed. My brain then files it and it is there the following morning. Learning blank verse Shakespeare is hard, but rhyming couplets are easier,” said Alan, who went to drama school in 1993.

Although he reflects that a fulltime career as an actor would have been good, he said you need to be in London to find the road to success. His full-time job is in global logistics.

Alan will be playing the lead role of Jefferson Steele in ‘A Bunch of Amateurs’, but what are his favourite characters to portray?

“Villains,” he replied. “They are so

much more fun. For instance, the heroes of Shakespeare are rather dull.”

He has enjoyed playing panto baddies, as well as the dame!

Stage fright blights the careers of many stage actors, but Alan said he doesn’t suffer with it too badly.

Grass Roots Theatre Company has lots of productions planned for the future, but if you want to enjoy a very funny play in August, you can get your tickets for “A Bunch of Amateurs” from theallendale.org/tickets. Tickets cost £12.50 plus a 98p booking fee.

Grass Roots Theatre Company’s Alan Colclough

Bike charity receives £3k boost

Dorset-based charity DocBike has received a £3,000 donation to fund new equipment, including a branded gazebo, feather flags, and a toy motorbike dubbed the ‘mini DocBike’.

The charity unveiled the new equipment at The Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum in May. It will be used to engage with motorcyclists at future events held at the museum.

Founded in Dorset, DocBike aims to reduce fatalities and serious injuries amongst motorcyclists through research, engagement with bikers, and teaching free ‘BikerDown’ first-aid courses to the public so they know what to do if they arrive at the scene of a motorcycle crash, as well as how to avoid being involved in a collision.

The £3,000 was donated by Paul Webb, director of Dorset Water Softeners, who has also

sponsored the cost of a second mini DocBike that will be offered as a raffle prize to help raise funds for the charity. He said:

“I first heard about DocBike through one of our customers. I was really impressed with their enthusiasm and what they are trying to achieve, so I was pleased to be able to help by sponsoring their engagement equipment and raffle prize.

“I have seen many serious injuries on the road and even witnessed a fatality up close, so it’s always struck me that I wish I had known what to do.

After hearing about the free BikerDown course, I’m hoping to get myself booked on and will be encouraging my van drivers who go out every day to get trained too, as it might help to save someone’s life.”

After showcasing the new equipment, Paul and Dr Ian Mew, trustee and co-founder of DocBike, met former

champion motorcycle racer Sammy Miller and enjoyed a VIP tour of the museum. DocBike is rapidly expanding and now has eight branches across the UK. Tickets for the mini DocBike raffle cost £1 each and can be purchased online by visiting www.bit.ly/mini-docbikeraffle. The raffle will be drawn and the winner announced at The Dorset Bike Festival on Saturday 21 September.

Dr Ian Mew on the mini DocBike and Paul Webb on the big DocBike

Buzz off! How to keep pests at bay this summer

By Luke Graham | luke@dorsetview.co.uk

What can you do to get rid of pesky insects from your home and garden during the warmer months? Here are some tips from the experts

With the summer sun shining, many of us are spending more time in our gardens or keeping doors and windows open. Unfortunately, that can lead to more bugs and insects coming into your home or having to swat away wasps and pests when trying to enjoy time outside. While spiders, bees and wasps may play a vital role in our ecosystem, it’s understandable why you might find these space invaders a nuisance. Thankfully, there are humane ways to keep them away without using

harsh chemicals or harmful methods – especially if you have children or pets. Keep bees and wasps at bay It’s important to remember that bees are generally harmless unless provoked, and play a crucial role in pollinating flowers, fruits and veggies. Meanwhile, wasps can be very aggressive, but do still play a role in controlling other pests. That’s why it is preferable to deter these nuisances rather than eliminating them.

Hallie Gray, home and garden expert at Home Detail, says: “Remember the

golden rule: deterrence is better than elimination. Most of these methods keep bees and wasps at bay without causing them harm.”

Hallie advises that an important first step is to regularly clean up food and fallen fruit from outside spaces, as the sugar in these foods will

attract both bees and wasps. If eating outside, keep containers closed tightly or consider using mesh food covers.

Filling a clean spray bottle with cold water can prove effective. Spray the insects to distract and scare them away without harming them. You can also use essential oils to make a natural, safe repellent. Mix clove, geranium or lemongrass oil with water and spray the areas where you want them to stay away. Cinnamon, peppermint, or citronella oil also work as a natural deterrent to bees.

For wasps, consider planting spearmint, eucalyptus, or wormwood in your garden. These plants produce aromas that wasps avoid.

If you’re concerned about wasp nests, remember to regularly check your home’s eaves and overhangs for early signs of a nest. You can use a broom or hose to remove small nests before they form into larger colonies. Wasps are also very territorial, so

you could try hanging a fake nest around your property to trick wasps into thinking the area is already claimed. Finally, remember to stay calm. Bees and wasps are less likely to sting if they are unprovoked, so teach children and pets to avoid swatting or running after these insects. DIY time

Insects can squeeze through surprisingly small gaps, so use the warmer and (hopefully) drier days to fill in holes and cracks around your home. Check around windows, doors and vents, and then use caulk or weather stripping to seal these entry points.

Also, consider installing fine mesh screens over windows and vents to keep bugs and bees from flying inside. If you want to keep your garden door open on sunny days, consider hanging up a beaded or string curtain across the entranceway. These will stop flies from buzzing into your home. Lastly, keep an eye on

your bins over the summer. Wasps and flies love leftover food, so make sure your rubbish and food waste bins have tight-fitting lids and are cleaned regularly.

Choose your colours wisely

According to Alexia Hall, an interior designer from Dendo Design, certain colours are more likely than others to attract unwanted pests into your home. For instance, insects

like aphids and mites are more attracted to bold reds. Meanwhile, cockroaches and spiders are drawn towards dark brown, because the colour mimics the look of dirt and decaying matter. These pests thrive in dark, secluded areas, and using this colour can inadvertently create a more inviting environment for them.

Similarly, flies and bees are attracted towards yellow and bright neon colours. Alexia advises avoiding these in your home exterior and interior and sticking to more muted tones.

Instead, Alexia recommends soft blues and greens, muted pastels and earthy tones, as these are less likely to attract insects.

“Choosing the right colours for your home is crucial for creating a welcoming and comfortable environment,” says Alexia. “By avoiding overly stimulating or pest-attracting colours, you can ensure that your space remains both beautiful and functional.”

How do you keep bugs at bay in your home? Write in to let us know.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Changing Places toilet

New Forest District Council has installed a new Changing Places toilet in The Furlong short stay car park in Ringwood. Opposite the main toilet block, it features a range of amenities, including a height-adjustable changing bench, a hoist, and additional space for wheelchair users, and can be accessed at any time using a RADAR key.

Energy saver

Ringwood Town Council’s Policy and Finance Committee has granted permission for Ringwood Bowling Club, which is at Carvers Recreation Ground, to install 16 solar panels onto its roof.

New Forest charities benefit from local Freemasons

Local Freemasons have donated almost £100,000 to charities across the New Forest. At an event attended by dignitaries including the deputy mayor of Christchurch Cllr Paul Hilliard, cheques were presented to charities including Macmillan Caring Locally, Guide Dogs for the Blind, Dreams Come Through and the Girl Guides.

Help with form filling

Age Concern Hampshire is seeking volunteers to assist vulnerable older people, supporting them with form-filling tasks. The charity’s information service provides tailored home visits helping individuals who may feel overwhelmed or isolated by the digital divide. For more information, visit: www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk

Pulford Publicity Ltd (“the Publisher”) reserves the right to refuse publication of any advertisement without notice or explanation.

Whilst the Publisher will endeavour to represent the best interests of the client in undertaking client’s instructions, it is fully understood that it is the agreed responsibility of the client to supply Viewpoint accurate copy details of the advertisement(s) to be placed and any alterations to the copy must be received prior to copy date.

Guarantee of insertion cannot be given and the Publisher shall not be liable for any loss or damage caused by any error or inaccuracy in the printing of an advertisement or by the total or partial failure, however caused, of publication or distribution of Viewpoint. In no case shall the total liability of the Publisher for any misprint, error or omission exceed the price charged by the Publisher for that advertisement. The Publisher shall not be liable for any damage or loss save as stated and, in particular, the Publisher shall have no liability to the Advertiser in any circumstances for any claim for damages to, loss of, or costs in respect of any anticipated profits, revenues, business opportunities or for any other indirect or consequential loss.

Claims for any error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement must be made within 10 days of publication to the Administration Department.

Advertisers are requested to check their advertisements after the first insertion. The Publisher will not be responsible for any errors on subsequent insertions, which have not been advised to them. Cancellation of an advertisement must be advised in writing 21 days prior to copy date.

Unless agreed otherwise in writing by the Publisher the terms of payment for credit accounts are 10 days from date of invoice. Any discount, which the Publisher may have agreed with the advertiser will be forfeited in the event of failure by the advertiser to meet these credit terms. All rates quoted are subject to VAT at the current rate in force at the time the advertisement appears. Copyright of advertisements produced wholly by the Publisher belongs to the Publisher. Advertisers may not reproduce such advertisments without the Publisher’s written consent. Full details of copy dates are obtainable direct from Viewpoint and/ or its representatives. The placing of an order for an advertisment shall amount to acceptance of these Terms and Conditions.

TREE SURGERY

TREE SURGERY

VINTAGE BOOKS

NEWS IN BRIEF

Service award

At a recent meeting of Ringwood Town Council, Chris Treleavan was presented with an Award for Outstanding Community Service for his many years’ service as a district and town councillor and as a Rotarian.

Tree carving

Ringwood Town Council’s Recreation, Leisure and Open Spaces Committee has given permission for the Rotary Club of Ringwood to arrange for a carving of flowers on a cherry tree stump in the War Memorial Gardens. The stump had been left for habitat purposes.

New skateboard ramp

Ringwood Town Council hopes that the installation of a skate ramp on the grass in the North Poulner play area will be completed this summer. The cost of supply and installation is £15,940 plus VAT. Fundraising is ongoing, but so far £11,830 has been raised. This has come from: a New Forest District Council community grant of around £6,000; a Round Table Trust grant of around £3,100; a Ringwood Round Table grant of £1,000; £1,000 from Ringwood Carnival; £500 via a GoFundMe page and £250 from Ringwood Rotary.

Security items

Dorset Police are keen for local people to pop into the Ferndown Watch Community Office in the Barrington Centre, where domestic and bicycle security products are available.They include signal blocker pouches for electronic car keys and mobile phones; remote control PIR sensor alarms for sheds and garages; bicycle D locks; bike cable locks; weatherproof padlocks and personal panic alarms with built-in torches. The office is open Monday to Friday from 10am-12.30pm.

Lions awards

Ringwood & Fordingbridge Lions Club made a number of presentations at its recent 54th Charter Anniversary Dinner. The Melvin Jones Fellowship Humanitarian Services Awards went to New Forest For Ukraine CEO John Allison and to Dorothy Tuke for continued longstanding service to the club. A 50-year long service award went to Martin Riseam who received a certificate of appreciation, personally signed by HRH Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, who is the patron of British Isles Lions Clubs.In addition, awards for 35 years of service went to Geoff Kay and Brian Small. Yvette Bruwer received a Special President’s Certificate of Appreciation. To find out more about Lions social events, contact Ringwood & Fordingbridge Lions Club on 0845 833 5819 or see www.randflions.org.uk.

CORRESPONDENCE

To express your opinion or ideas about the community send your letters to letters@dorsetview.co.uk

Yet another trick Please can we all do what we can to stop this government-backed insanity called the ‘Nutrient Mitigation Scheme’.

This is yet another trick perpetrated by con men who want to get rich and skilfully suck in credible bodies to support their ideas. If you want to see the future of this scheme, have a look at the similar ‘Carbon Offset Scheme’ investigated by the BBC’s Panorama programme. Please, please encourage your readers to call a halt to this now before more, neverto-be-replaced Dorset countryside is lost forever. Decent trusting people are being deceived.  Gerald Monkcom Via email

A historic journey to France

My friend Rev the electrician drove his 1942 jeep to Normandy in June to take part in the D-Day remembrance service for the 80th anniversary.  He is such a gentleman. Bless him, he broke down on the way back!

Reg Cunningham

Wimborne