4Dorset February 2015

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BRING ON

Red the

CARPET

Local upcoming stars celebrate at the Regent Centre, Christchurch

Your Independent Local Magazine

4DORSET

Feb 2015 Volume 12 Issue 7

Broadstone Christchurch Colehill | Ferndown Merley | West Parley Wimborne Ashley Heath | Bournemouth Canford Heath | Kinson Poole | Ringwood | St Ives Three Legged Cross Verwood | West Moors

CashUnity happy knitter wins ÂŁ1,000 Minor Injuries Unit empty during A&E crisis Plan your dream wedding

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Win

Tickets to see REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY

Volume 12 • Issue 7 • February 2015

editor Janine Pulford

editorial@mags4dorset.co.uk

assistant editor Liz Turner news@mags4dorset.co.uk

managing director Ben Pulford design@mags4dorset.co.uk

design director Louis Pulford

design4dorset@btconnect.com

graphic designer Daniel Lee

design4dorset@btconnect.com

account managers

Mark Beechey sales@mags4dorset.co.uk Russell Harness advertise@mags4dorset.co.uk

company secretary Nick Pulford accounts4dorset@btconnect.com

4Dorset is independently published and distributed free to homes and businesses in selected areas of Dorset and Hampshire. It is also available by subscription at £35 per year. Views or opinions expressed in 4Dorset 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 4Dorset and should not be reproduced without prior written permission from the publisher.

Hello readers,

It’s February! I know it’s cold with a chance of snow, but look on the bright side – the first signs of spring are here.

Catkins, snowdrops, daffodils and frog spawn all prove that despite adversity, life flourishes. In the same way, the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo, which created the slogan Je Suis Charlie, has flourished in the aftermath of the terror attacks in Paris last month.

As well as being a month of promise, February offers romance. The fourteenth is a day of hearts and flowers and gives those in a relationship the perfect excuse to declare or reaffirm their love.

If you like spring flowers and romance, here’s a double bonus. This year, Valentine’s Day coincides with Snowdrop Sunday at Damerham. This charming event will be held on 14 and 15 February, and will give you the opportunity to visit St George Church (SP6 3JF) and gaze in wonder at the carpet of snowdrops whilst enjoying a free snowdrop walk.

What’s more, you and your partner can sit in the church and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee whilst gazing into each other’s eyes. You may even be inspired to book your wedding there.

For more about weddings, see pages 19-21 and page 22 for a unique way to propose to your loved one.

Enjoy this magazine. Liz and I have worked hard to make it as interesting and topical as possible. Obtaining an exclusive interview with the BDO World Darts Champ made my day, especially after seeing him win on telly!

Contents

4DORSET

Editorial: 01202 870270 • Advertising: 01202 816140 • Email: mags@mags4dorset.co.uk • Web: www.mags4dorset.co.uk

Around & About BCU CashUnity Competitions Health Horoscopes Specialist Services

26 + 27 18-21, 23 24 + 25 25 + 27 16 + 17 28 29 - 30

Write to: The Editor, 1st Floor, King George V Pavilion, Peter Grant Way, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9EN

next copy closing date:

9 FEBRUARY 2015 The Editor reserves the right to amend or shorten contributions in order to fit in with the editorial policy and style of the magazine

Janine Pulford, Editor

Follow us at www.twitter.com/mags4dorset Leave us a comment at www.facebook.com/mags4dorset.news Join the editor www.facebook.com/janine.pulford Visit our website www.mags4dorset.co.uk Email the editor at editorial@mags4dorset.co.uk

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

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local

Scotty Dog Mitchell

BDO Champion

World Darts

4Dorset’s editor Janine Pulford interviewed the new Lakeside BDO World Darts Champion - whose top flight win on Sunday, 11 January 2015 made headline news. The Bransgore landscape gardener is a farmer’s kid who still works for a living.

How long have you been playing darts?

When I was 17 a friend said he was a player short and asked me to stand in. I was reluctant, but he handed me the darts and all three went in the board. He said I was good enough. His name is Trevor Chance and I made sure he was at Lakeside.

He was the man who put the darts in my hand.

You’ve tried for the title before, what was different this year?

Mentally, I was stronger. I’ve competed several times before and never made it through to the final. I put it down to nerves in front of the TV cameras. It was holding me back. I contacted sports mind coach / hypno man, Stephen McKibben and discussed my anxieties.

He sent me an MP3 to listen to when I was relaxing at home. It definitely gave me a lot more mental strength.

What was it like throwing the final dart?

I’d missed a dart earlier – about four legs before – so I’d had the experience to try for the win 5 or 6 minutes previously. I was pretty composed and told myself, ‘How often are Scotty at West Moors Memorial Hall you going to have the with social club steward Paul Wyeth chance? You’ve got to get this.’ I’d spent two hours convincing myself I could win, but the second that double went in, I couldn’t believe it. I didn’t know what to do.

Martin helped me out, he told me to “Give the crowd large,” he was magnanimous in defeat. He was fantastic and guided me through it and I gave the crowd large.

How did it feel to beat Martin Adams, one of the BDO’s dart players of all time?

It was the height of my darting life. To beat such an icon was a dream come true.

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4DORSET February 2015

local NEW CHAMP SCOTTY DOG MITCHELL © BDO & DG Media 2015 Image courtesy of David Gill

What advice would you give to any aspiring darts champions?

Don’t give up on the game.

Darts won’t give up on you.

I’ve been playing since I was 17, I’m now 44. It’s a long, long road. You have to get into the super league and there are lots of steps. It’s a long old haul. The BDO can get you to Lakeside.

How will the BDO World Championship title (prize £100,000) change your life?

It changed my week. The media interest has been mad, so I didn’t get back to work as soon as I wanted. Also, I want to take the trophy round to as many places as possible and be a good ambassador for the sport and the BDO itself. I don’t plan to let it change my life because I don’t want to put pressure on myself.

What darts do you use?

25grams Red Dragon Scotty Dog Mitchell. They are my own design.

How many hours do you practise?

In the summer when work is busy, about 2 hours a week.

When leading up to the World Championships about 3-4 hours a day.

Is beer an integral part?

It’s a misconstrued myth that all darts players are big beer drinkers. 3-4 pints during a match is about the most you could manage before your hand-to-eye co-ordination suffers. A few pints over the course of the match helps me relax.

Who do you see as your closest rival?

Everybody.

When did you join West Moors Memorial Hall Social Club?

Our darts team used to play at the White Heather, but a year or so ago when the pub closed, [it’s reopened now] we moved to West Moors.

They were very welcoming and we’ve stayed with them.

We play in the Wimborne league.

Are your family supportive?

Unbelievably supportive.

My wife Sharon even makes some of my shirts. We’ve been married for 23 years and together for 27. My daughter Katie (21) plays darts in the Christchurch league and my son Sam (18) plays in the Ringwood league.

Will you defend your title?

Yes.

Does this mean that you won’t be going over to the ‘other side’ to play in the PDC?

I’m not doing that now, but ‘never say never’.

Will you continue to play in the Wimborne league?

Definitely. After winning on the Sunday, I made every effort to get to the club the next day to play, but with all the media attention, I was too late. When I turned up, everyone gave me a standing ovation and presented me with a framed picture. I felt like Johnny Depp without the looks. Everyone was taking photographs.

’

e dog out?

‘who let th

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local

MBE for child bereavement

CHARITY FOUNDER The death of a parent or close relative is difficult at any age and it is estimated that 2,500 children and young people in Dorset have to face this every year

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even years ago the Mosaic child bereavement charity was founded by Margaret Hannibal to support these children and their families. Since then it has worked with 750 children and to her great surprise, Margaret was awarded a MBE in the New Year’s Honours in recognition of her services to bereaved children and their families in Dorset.

Margaret who lives near Poole, was working at the palliative care unit in Poole when she became aware of the need for bereavement support for young people.

Whilst local hospice care recognise the need for family support pre and post death, these services don’t usually extend to death not caused by terminal illness.

However Mosaic provides grief counselling for young people and support to children and families who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling or loved ones through suicide, murder, terminal illness and sudden or traumatic death.

All the people who work for Mosaic have had special training to help them understand how children are feeling and provide childhood bereavement training for professionals, schools and voluntary organisations including teachers.

Margaret now CEO at Mosaic, said: “We believe it is really important to give teaching staff the confidence and skills to work with bereaved children and understand how they may react to the death of a loved one. Often teachers just need to know that what they are doing and saying is the right thing.

“Every child is unique and will deal with bereavement in their own way.

“Children we work with have told us they sometimes get bullied at school because of the death and find it difficult to talk to their peers.”

Children also find it really helpful to meet others who have had similar experiences and residential weekends are also organised by Mosaic, free of charge.

It hasn’t always been easy to provide the support.

Margaret added: “We had a difficult patch about two

years ago with funding problems but we managed to survive. Then we received funding from the Lottery and Children in Need and the charity has a more stable financial setting. We have turned a corner and as awareness about what we do is increasing we get more referrals.

“It came as a complete surprise and shock to be awarded the MBE but it has helped raise the profile of Mosaic already which has been lovely.”

The charity receives just 30 per cent Local Authority funding and all other money has to be raised through grants, sponsorship and community support.

To find out more about Mosaic go to www. mosaicfamilysupport.org.uk or call 01258 837071

local

stamp of approval

Stamps celebrating one of the New Forest’s most famous residents have been launched by the Royal Mail

I

t is the 150th anniversary of Lewis Carroll’s classic tale Alice in Wonderland which was based on Alice Liddell, who lived in Lyndhurst for most of her life. She died in 1934 and her ashes are buried in the village’s St Michael and All Angels Church. It was originally a story made up

by Reverend Charles Lutwidge Dodgson, to entertain Alice and her siblings on a boat trip. Dodgson wrote it down for Alice as a Christmas gift in 1864 with his own illustrations and later published the book under the pen name Lewis Carroll.

Grahame Baker-Smith has illustrated 10 key scenes from the story, bringing to life unforgettable characters such as the White Rabbit, the Cheshire Cat and Alice herself.

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

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exclusive local

HOSPITAL PLEA

IGNORED

BY PATIENTS

By Liz Turner

J

ust one patient attended a minor injuries unit which opened on New Year’s Day to try and relieve the pressure on hospital A&E departments.

While more than 100 people waited over four hours for treatment at Poole and Royal Bournemouth Hospitals, during 31 December and 1 January, staff at Victoria Hospital, Wimborne only saw one patient on the bank holiday. This was despite NHS advice that patients should use alternatives to A&E including MIUs. With pressure mounting on A&E services locally over the busy holiday period, it was decided to open the Wimborne MIU on New Year’s Day. Between 31 December and 1 January, both Poole and Bournemouth hospitals failed to meet NHS England’s target that 95 per cent of patients should be seen within four hours. At Poole only 89 per cent were treated in this time while at RBH this was 78 per cent.* Both faced the same demands as hospitals throughout the country but at Wimborne MIU it was the staff on New Year’s Day who were waiting for patients and not the other way round.

Teresa North, Matron at Victoria Hospital, explained: ““We do not usually open our Minor Injuries Unit on weekends or bank holidays but, due to the pressures on the local acute units over Christmas, we opened on New Year’s Day.

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4DORSET February 2015

“This decision was made at short notice and the information was advertised on our website and at Poole Hospital A&E but we did encounter unusually low attendance.”

During the usual opening hours of Monday to Friday 8.30am-4pm, the unit normally experiences consistent attendance levels, with 100 -120 people being seen on average each week.

Over Christmas the NHS in Dorset had urged people to use emergency departments only for serious health emergencies. MIUs had been highlighted as able to treat injuries such as sprains, simple fractures, lacerations, minor head injuries and offer advice.

Teresa North added: “I would encourage anyone with a minor injury to visit our unit or another community hospital’s MIU in the first instance to take pressures off the county’s acute hospitals, which become increasingly overstretched during the winter months. By attending an MIU you allow emergency department staff to concentrate on people with serious and life-threatening conditions and save yourself a potentially long wait.”

She continued: “If you are unsure of where best to receive treatment you can also call NHS 111 to get some advice on the most suitable local service.”

A spokesperson from Poole Hospital explained: “Our A&E staff work incredibly hard to see and treat patients as quickly as possible, but in common with hospitals around the country, we experienced unprecedented levels of pressure in the final months of 2014. We saw a significant increase in A&E attendances, as well as delays to discharges which meant capacity across the whole hospital was extremely stretched. However, for us, it is never acceptable that our patients have to wait longer than they should for the right care, and we are working with our partners across the health system to address the challenges we are all facing.

“We would also urge people to consider alternative services to A&E where appropriate, as there are many other services such as minor injuries units, pharmacists and out-of-hours GP services which offer advice and treatment, and can often provide quicker access to care.

“We continue to work closely with our partners who manage other services promoting alternatives to A&E.” A spokesperson for The Royal Bournemouth Hospital added: “There was publicity in the Emergency Department promoting both the Wimborne MIU and the walk in centre in Boscombe.

“Throughout the Christmas and New Year period there were also primary care services in ED at The Royal Bournemouth Hospital operating between 8am to 8pm.

“During the Christmas and New Year period, patients with minor injuries who were not seen within four hours was very small, with the majority being emergency admissions.” *Figures from NHS England’s winter situation report

local

Culture Secretary

TO REVIEW NAVITUS BAY

R

Red CARPET!

THE

esponding to news that the Culture Secretary will “review” the way his department dealt with plans for the Navitus Bay wind farm scheme off the south coast, the Leader of Bournemouth Borough Council, Councillor John Beesley said, “EDF and Eneco’s plans to build the highly contentious Navitus Bay wind farm threaten the setting of the Jurassic Coast and its status as a World Heritage Site. Neither Bournemouth, nor the United Kingdom can afford to risk losing this global status for this unique asset; we must do all that we can to protect our outstanding coastline and the tourism economy it supports.

“I am delighted that the Culture Secretary has intervened. I would be surprised if the final conclusion does not mirror the French Government’s action to protect their UNESCO World Heritage site at Mont-Saint-Michel when it was similarly threatened by a wind farm proposal in 2012.”

Christchurch Regent Centre is hosting an evening for two upcoming stars, who have invited over 60 friends and family to see them perform on the big screen

P Oliver and Raffiella on the blue carpet

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4DORSET February 2015

BRING ON

Priory School friends and members of Bournemouthbased Swish of the Curtain Theatre School, Oliver Payne and Finlay Wright-Stephens, play roles in the highly acclaimed film, The Theory of Everything, which has already won two Golden Globe awards.

Starring Eddie Redmayne and Felicity Jones, the film has been a huge box office success and tells the story of the moving love affair between renowned astrophysicist Stephen Hawking and his first wife Jane. It is based on her memoir Travelling to Infinity: My Life with Stephen.

At the audition, 10-year-old Oliver secured the role of Hawking’s son Robert and director James Marsh cast Finlay as younger son Tim. Taking fame in his stride, Oliver posed in front of a bank of photographers with Raffeilla Chapman who plays Hawking’s daughter Lucy at the blue carpet premiere in Leicester Square on 9 December.

local Oliver’s father Jeremy told 4Dorset, “It was an exciting and incredible occasion. We met the Hawking family and spent some time with them at their table at the party afterwards. Eddie and Felicity were lovely and everyone had a great time, although Oliver was most excited about the fact that everyone was given free popcorn to eat during the showing of the film.”

Oliver added, “I’m very excited to have been a part of this film. Working with Eddie and Felicity was so much fun – we just messed around all the time. They were very kind to me and it’s hard to believe they’re also world famous megastars!”

Nine-year-old Finlay was unable to attend the Leicester Square premiere, so the local screening of The Theory of Everything should be quite a celebration. To top it off, The Regent Centre’s carpet is red, and will add that special Hollywood-esque feel to the evening. Tickets are available from the box office.

Finlay WrightStephens

If you’d like to support these local rising stars, you can also see them in Swish of the Curtain’s Wizard of Oz at Bournemouth Pavilion between 19-21 February.

The Theory of Everything Golden Globes went to Eddie Redmayne – best actor in a motion picture drama; and composer Johann Johannsson for best original score.

The bank of photographers

Oliver and Raffiella with Stephen Hawking

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Moors Valley brightens a dull day local

How a walk in the park helped burn over 1,000 calories!

By Janine Pulford

Award winning Moors Valley Country Park near Ringwood attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. Many wait until the sun is shining before making the most of the forest and lakeside walks, miniature railway, play trail, tree top adventure, GoApe, lakeside picnic area, restaurant and children’s play park. But not me.

O

n a dull day with showers forecast, I decided to join the handful of hardy families and brave the English weather to explore the country park.

I went with a Bournemouth friend and two of her children, Francesca (aged 6) and Marcello (7). In welly boots and waterproofs we discovered the Gruffalo’s Child’s Trail and collected a goody bag (£2) from the Visitor Centre. But you can follow the trail without the bag.

The giant carving of the Gruffalo got a big hug before we squelched off.

The children ran ahead, keeping an eye out for anything that rustled in the forest, as well as clues hanging in the trees. A squirrel or two later, they discovered camps, which they found exciting.

Interesting facts were dotted along the route to spark the imagination, but what surprised us most was the length of the trail be prepared for a hike.

At the end, Louise and I were flagging, but thoughts of a hot cup of coffee in the restaurant were short lived because the children couldn’t

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wait to go on the play trail.

The weather brightened and it was surprising how many more families literally appeared out of the woodwork.

The trail’s wooden structures never fail to please and the children climbed in and out and slid and fell on to the soft ground laughing. The fact that they needed a drink at the snake pit brought back happy memories of when my own children would stop for a drink at exactly the same spot (some 20 years ago).

local

A

fter clambering through spiders’ webs and surviving the crocodile pit, the restaurant beckoned again, but we had run out of time.

I checked my Fitbit. The walk in the park had notched up a staggering 8,000 steps, which equated to burning over 1,000 calories. What a well spent morning.

Share car: CUT COSTS

Last month saw carsharedorset.com celebrate its 10th anniversary. The website is all about giving car sharing a try

A

On our next visit, we’ll explore the play area and tree top trail and maybe fit in a train ride - I wonder if we’ll ever get time for that elusive cup of coffee.

n 11-mile journey shared with just one other person could save you more than £300 a year in fuel. Your savings could increase to over £400 by sharing with two other people.

Carsharedorset.com makes it easy to search for other potential car share partners across Dorset. There is also a savings calculator which shows how much money you could save. Individuals and businesses keen to save money and reduce carbon emissions are being encouraged to sign up for free.

And you don’t even need a car - if you are just looking for a lift, carsharedorset.com could be the answer.

Car sharer Paul Beecroft from Bournemouth said: “I’m amazed at how much money I’m saving by sharing a lift as I travel from Bournemouth to Dorchester four times a week.

“The website was very easy to use and the sign up process was quick and simple. I’ve made new friends and car sharing really makes the journey to and from work more enjoyable.”

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

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local

POPULAR HEAD

to retire this summer

By Liz Turner

It will be the end of an era at Ferndown Upper School when headteacher Alex Wills retires at the end of the summer

A

fter 11 years at the school, Alex has stayed beyond retirement age and decided it is time to finally hang up his gown.

He has chalked up 37 years as a teacher, starting off in Surbiton before moving to Brent, where he taught for 23 years in several schools, initially as a head of science, then deputy head and eventually head.

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4DORSET February 2015

He moved to Ferndown Upper School in 2003 at a time when a firm hand was needed at the tiller. And this he has provided with the backing of colleagues, pupils and very importantly parents.

Alex has introduced many changes which he is very proud of, including a house system which has ensured students of different ages mix and work together and offer each other support.

The school now has almost 1000 pupils and a successful 300 strong sixth form.

“Since 2003 I have been able to recruit a fantastic team of staff who have improved standards beyond recognition. Behaviour is better than it has even been and there is a family feeling about the school.

“Parents who were pupils here in the past, say they don’t recognise the school today compared to how it was when they came here. The ethos is good and I am proud of what has been achieved,” he said.

The support of the parents has been very important to Alex as he has strived to improve the school.

Last year’s Ofsted report describing the school as ‘inadequate’ came as a

shock to everyone connected with FUS, pupils and staff alike. A complaint about the report is still ongoing but Alex insists it is his decision to retire and that he has not been pushed.

“The backing of parents has been fantastic particularly in the last year following the inspection. The report is a travesty as the students are wonderful,” he explained.

Alex has no plans to put his feet up and rest on his laurels.

He said: “I’m ready for a change and will carry on working in some form. I’ve always been fascinated by the history of music and will spend some time following my hobby of playing the piano.

I’ve got plenty of energy and enthusiasm still and will keep active by jogging and going to the gym.”

He emphasised that it was important to appoint the right person to take over as headteacher.

“This means the school will continue to improve and I wish my successor all the very best.”

David Moss Chair of Governors said: “Alex has made a massive contribution to the successful development of the school over nearly 12 years and he can be very proud of his achievements. I also know that he is highly respected by our students, staff and parents.”

local

FIREWORK EXPLOSION mars New Year celebrations A man miraculously escaped serious injury when he was thrown to the ground after a firework exploded in his pocket in Wimborne

H

e had joined other revellers in the town centre on New Year’s Eve when the lit firework flew through the air in the Square before landing in his coat.

The 27 year-old victim, from Poole, suffered burns to his leg and hand and his jacket was ruined but the consequences of the blast could have been much worse.

A large crowd had gathered in Wimborne just before midnight to see in the New Year.

Police Constable Nina Doyle, of Ferndown police, said: “It is nothing short of a miracle that no one was seriously hurt as a result of this act of sheer stupidity.

“There was a large crowd of people in Wimborne enjoying the New Year celebrations and I am hopeful that someone might have seen the incident and can help me identify the offender.”

Call Dorset Police in confidence on 101 quoting incident number 1:06. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.

Firework causes damage and injuries

Interested in becoming a councillor?

Christchurch and East Dorset Councils are holding seminars for anyone interested in standing as a candidate in the borough, district, town or parish council elections on 7 May 2015.

The content of both seminars is the same and they are open to residents from both council areas.

They will deal with the nomination process, provide an insight from existing councillors and explain the training and support received if elected.

There is no pressure on the evening to say whether or not you wish to stand as it is purely an information event.

For further details on the seminars on: •

Tuesday 3 February at 6.30pm at the Council Offices, at Furzehill, Wimborne

•

Thursday 12 February at 6.30pm at the Civic Offices, Bridge Street, Christchurch

contact Electoral Services on 01202 795078 or email elections@

christchurchandeastdorset. gov.uk

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

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in health & fitness

Tai Chi for Lupus patients

The Dorset Lupus Group has organised a talk by Tai Chi Master, Sue Branch, on Saturday 7 February, from 10am to 12 noon at the Scutt Hall, Sutton Road, Sutton Poyntz, Preston, Weymouth. Sue has a good understanding of auto-immune disease and disorders and will demonstrate how Tai Chi can help improve the physical and mental fitness of those who live with Lupus. More details on 01305 761454.

Concerned about anyone sleeping rough?

It’s distressing to see homeless people huddled in doorways trying to grab a few hours sleep, especially in the wintry weather. If you are concerned about anyone sleeping rough, you can contact the national initiative Streetlink. Contacting Streetlink on 0300 5000 914 will help to connect that person to the local services available. Or go online www.streetlink.org.uk/ tell-us-about-a-rough-sleeper

CHARITY OF THE YEAR:

Cancer Research UK’s Relay For Life Bournemouth & East Dorset

Can you find eight people you want to spend the night with?

Cancer Research UK is inviting people of all ages, ability and fitness levels to get together and enter Relay For Life, an overnight community event which celebrates and commemorates life, but most importantly, raises money to help bring forward the day when all cancers are cured Teams of between eight to 15 people from all walks of life are needed to take part in the annual Cancer Research UK Relay For Life event at Ferndown Leisure Centre over the weekend of July 11/12.

Relay For Life gives supporters the opportunity to join together and fundraise as a team with friends, family or colleagues. Teams undertake a wide range of fundraising activities, both

big and small throughout the months leading up to the event, before coming together for a fun-filled, inspirational overnight Relay experience that honours cancer survivors and celebrates life.

During the Relay itself, team members take it in turns to walk round a track while everyone else enjoys a wide range of entertainment and fun activities on offer. As Relay For Life is non-stop through the night, those team members not on the track take it in turns to rest, eat, or sleep in their tents.

In its eighth year in East Dorset, the organisers want the 2015 Relay For Life event to be the biggest one yet! Many teams come back year after year, but this year they are looking for lots of new teams to come and join in the fun.

Relay For Life is a great way to spend time with your friends, family and colleagues while raising money for a truly worthwhile cause.

For more information on how to enter Relay For Life Bournemouth and East Dorset, visit www.bournemouthandeastdorsetrelayforlife.co.uk or call 01202 717630 /01202 537624.

Government misses A&E waiting time target by the widest margin since its introduction Patients and staff paying the price for the government’s failure to manage and invest sufficiently in the NHS says GMB GMB, the union for NHS and ambulance staff, responded to figures released recently by NHS England showing that the Cameron government has missed the four-hour A&E waiting time target by the widest margin since the target was introduced a decade ago.

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4DORSET February 2015

From Oct to Dec 2014 92.6% of patients were seen in 4 hours. The figures for major A&E departments are especially alarming, with only 88.9% of patients seen in 4 hours.

NHS A&E figures have deteriorated since the 2010 general election. In October

to December 2009, 97.8% of patients were seen in four hours. The four hour target was 98% in 2004 but was revised to 95% in 2010.

A number of hospitals have recently declared “major incidents” as they struggle to find the capacity to meet demand.

in health and fitness

Shared Carers sought across Poole

Borough of Poole’s Shared Care scheme is seeking local people to get involved with disabled children in their community by providing regular respite care. Under the Shared Care scheme, families, couples or individuals invite a disabled child into their home and care for them for regular short periods. There are currently 22 Shared Carers in Poole, but more are needed. For more details call 01202 714640 or visit www.boroughofpoole.com/ sharedcare

Need a ride to the doctor?

NeighbourCars in Ferndown can help older people in the area who have difficulty getting to appointments.

Transport is provided by volunteer drivers using their own cars in return for which a mileage payment is made. People using the service are asked to give a donation. If you wish to use NeighbourCars please give at least 24 hours notice and contact Joyce 01202 980839. Drivers who have a few hours to spare and would like to be part of the service should also call the same number.

- advertising feature -

10

days of gym,

swimming and classes

for just £10!

Are you struggling with your New Year’s resolution to get more active? Don’t worry help is on the way at Ferndown Leisure Centre. With great facilities and loads of activities to try, there really is something for the whole family to enjoy.

Plus this month, Ferndown Leisure Centre is offering 10 days of gym, swimming and classes for just £10 to help you stay on track.

The 10 days of fitness includes a FREE introduction to the gym with an instructor, unlimited use of the gym, swimming and workout classes. You will also be able to use SWIMTAG the latest technology to allow you to monitor your swimming results, including distance, speed, rests, and calories burned etc.

General Manager, Glenn, explains: “If you’re keen to start exercising on a regular basis, but not quite sure how it will fit into your daily schedule, a short trial membership is just what you need. It offers excellent value for money and a perfect opportunity to use the facilities, find time in your weekly routine and get into the habit of working out, before signing up for a longer term commitment.”

To find out more about the 10 day trial offer running during February or for details about the centre and other activities available call Ferndown Leisure Centre on 01202 877468, email: deanadudman@pfpleisure.org or visit www.ferndownleisurecentre.co.uk

February Half Term

Bookings are now being taken on the exciting holiday programme. The full programme can be viewed at www.ferndownleisurecentre.co.uk or pick up a programme from the centre.

Swim Lessons

Contact the swim admin team if you would like to be a swimmer or a better swimmer on 01202 877468.

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

| 17

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

advertising feature

he T I t e e m M a ll them Te Next time you visit, te4Dorset oto in

t’s always nice to put a face to the name and know you are dealing with real people and not just an automated system.

On this page you will meet the teams behind some of the local businesses in your area.

2015

18 |

4DORSET February 2015

you saw their ph

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

advertising feature

With this ring......

You’ve said yes, you’ve bought the ring and now you want your big day to be truly special If you are looking for a little inspiration to make sure everything goes perfectly and that the bride, groom, attendants and all the family have a day to remember and cherish, read on and see what our specially selected advertisers can do to make the day you say “I do” be the one you’ve always dreamed of.

Minster Designs

Minster Designs is a beautiful bridal boutique located in the heart of Wimborne.

With over 17 years of passion and knowledge, Oxana is there to ensure you feel comfortable in the privacy of her bridal boutique.

Minster Designs is a little paradise filled with elegance and timeless collections that will capture the heart of any bride. Oxana understands that each bride has their individual vision of how they want to look on their big day and therefore works to create a bridal experience tailored to each of her clients.

The Little White Heart Company

The Little White Heart Company is a local business based in Ferndown.

Winners of the ‘Wedding Extra’ Award at ‘The Dorset Wedding Supplier Awards 2014’ they are fully equipped to help you with your wedding day needs. From full venue styling, chair covers and sweet carts to custom wedding signage and bespoke stationery, they can work with you to supply beautiful touches for your day.

Visit www.thelittlewhiteheart.com or phone 07429 110573

Posh Togs Posh Togs, a family run business in Moordown, Bournemouth, has been trading for over 20 years. Honestly priced wedding gowns, beautiful bridesmaid dresses and contemporary men’s hire wear. They also have a large range of prom dresses starting at just £50.

They have just opened a new boutique shop in Wimborne

Minster, stocking bridal gowns, bridesmaids and prom gowns.

Bridal gowns

by Opulence and Romantica of Devon also Art Couture by Eternity Bridal. As an opening offer they have 25% off all gowns ordered before the end of February. Come and see the fabulous range in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, no appointment

necessary. They stock dresses for all budgets, sizes and colours.

“We will work with you to make your wedding dreams come true.

“We look forward to meeting you and discussing your requirements.”

esey RacandheltheLovteam at Posh Togs

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

| 19

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

With this ring......

advertising feature

Slimming World Losing weight for one of the most important days of your life can be tough but not with Slimming World. No gimmicks or gruelling exercise regimes. You will lose weight whilst eating real food, never going hungry and being supported all the way to your big day and beyond. Contact your local consultant for more details (see left).

Wedding Daze Directory

Once you have decided to get married, wedding exhibitions are a great place to start looking for ideas to make your wedding day the day of your dreams.

Wedding Daze Directory is proud to say that it has a vast understanding of what makes a good wedding exhibition. Each venue is carefully selected so that every person who attends its wedding exhibitions will have an amazing day. For information on all its forthcoming wedding exhibitions visit the website www.weddingdaze.co.uk. It also produces a local wedding directory. For your FREE copy email Tammy@weddingdaze. co.uk

Honeybrook

Summer wedding ceremonies and celebrations have been successfully organised at Honeybrook for many years.

There’s a choice of licensed wedding rooms, large and small, and a special orchard for setting-up marquees for postceremony celebrations.

It offers rooms for the bride and groom in the farmhouse, private garden and walk to the orchard.

There’s also a stone circle and alder tree grove.

20 |

4DORSET February 2015

Lulworth Wedding Fair The Lulworth Wedding Fair takes place on Sunday 22 February. Occupying the Castle, courtyard and grand marquee in the grounds, it has become one of the most comprehensive wedding fairs in the county.

With the trend towards themed weddings, the Lulworth Wedding Fair has expanded to help couples realise the individual wedding of their dreams.

All exhibitors have been carefully chosen to provide not just the wedding essentials but a helpful range of finishing touches and ideas for those who dare to be different.

As a source of suppliers and entertainment it covers contemporary, traditional, quirky, vintage, bespoke and everything in between.

This annual event also provides entrance to the historic venues available on the privately owned Lulworth Estate including the Castle, Courtyard, St Andrew’s Church and the Roman Catholic Chapel of St Mary.

To obtain a free admission voucher please go to www.lulworth. com or show the voucher on your mobile device on the way in.

The Fair is open on Sunday 22 February from 10.30am to 4pm.

Find Lulworth Castle on the B3070. Follow the brown signs from the A352 between Wool and Wareham. For more details visit www.lulworth.com or call 01929 400352

advertising feature

Crane Valley and Bulbury Woods Golf Clubs The Crane Valley and Bulbury Woods golf clubhouses are ideal wedding reception venues.

Based in the heart of picturesque countryside with a lake, Crane Valley can accommodate up to 125 guests with smaller parties welcome, while at Bulbury Woods which has stunning views towards the Isle of Purbeck and Poole Harbour, 20 to 80 guests can be welcomed to a sit down meal and up to 200 people for a buffet.

The wedding team will meet with you in the run-up to the big day to design the perfect wedding reception for you and your partner.

From tablecloths and room layout to serving staff and choice of menu – they take care of every detail. Rates are extremely competitive and all packages are individually priced based upon your requirements – so if you’re looking for a Dorset-based wedding reception venue with a difference – get in touch.

Highcliffe Castle Built in an architectural style appropriately called ‘Romantic & Picturesque’, spectacular Highcliffe Castle provides a stunning clifftop location for your wedding. The Grade I Listed Castle specialises in both civil ceremonies and receptions.

You can hold your ceremony in the beautiful Wintergarden which seats 100 guests and then enjoy your reception in the refurbished State Dining Room, which seats 80, or the Great Hall seating up to 120. Alternatively you may wish to head off to one of the many local restaurants or hotels for your reception.

You can hold your wedding on any day of the week throughout the year, with several time options to choose from. The beautiful grounds with the sandy beach, just a gentle stroll away, provide excellent photo opportunities year round.

Contact them to find out more about their AllInclusive Package and Bespoke Hire.

With this ring......

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

Black Label Events

Black Label Events, the in house events team at AFC Bournemouth, invites you to the ultimate day out for wedding inspiration on Sunday 29 March from 11am until 3pm.

Held at the Goldsands Stadium, you’ll find everything you need to plan your perfect wedding. Local exhibitors will be showcasing spectacular bridal wear as well as stylish menswear for the all important groom. Alongside this, you’ll be able to view and sample amazing cakes, fantastic flowers, inspiring photography, fashionable jewellery and more.

The luxurious Bubbles Champagne lounge will also be open throughout the afternoon and the Black Label team will be on hand to answer any questions you have about holding your special day at this prestigious venue.

Entry is free but you are asked to pre-register to be entered into the prize draw.

To register, or for more information, please contact us at info@ blacklabelevents.co.uk or 01202 726397.

Goldsands Stadium, Dean Court, Kings Park, Bournemouth, Dorset BH7 7AF

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

| 21

local

Wow! What a dish

W

hen it came to making a marriage proposal, Tim White of Christchurch decided to hand it to his girlfriend on a plate.

He spent hours painting the plate at the Clay Studio at the end of December. It not only featured Jack from the film ‘Nightmare Before Christmas,’ but also contained a marriage proposal to his girlfriend of four years, Sue Hamilton.

The Clay Studio helped by putting it in the centre of their window display.

Next time Sue and Tim walked through Christchurch, Sue got a big surprise: “I saw the plate in the window with a character we both love from one of our favourite films. On closer inspection I saw that Tim was proposing to me. I thought this was a really romantic way to propose and I said yes instantly.”

New Year, New Adventures

Are you bored? Fed up with dark nights and think there is nothing to do? Are you aged between 12 and 18?

Well look no further than Ferndown ATC based near Ferndown Upper School.

Following an extremely successful year, the staff at Ferndown ATC have even more planned this year.

The squadron now has a structured training programme and as well as field craft weekends at Ferndown and Bovington, there are a number of gliding and flying opportunities. Weather permitting most cadets get a chance to take part in one or the other. The squadron has close links with the local area and charity organisations such as JTYF and have a busy schedule of events including Relay for Life, the Dorset Plane Pull, the Bournemouth Air Festival, Poppy Appeal and Remembrance Sunday.

If you enjoy sport, music, flying, shooting, want to learn first aid, navigation or how to fly in formation on the flight simulator then come along and give it a try.

Anyone looking for something just a little bit different, the chance for adventure and to learn new skills should contact the squadron through the website at http:// www.2358atc.org.uk

Garden delight

Ferndown in Bloom invites residents to help steer, support, promote, and possibly judge the 2015 competition. Find out more at the Annual General Meeting on Thursday, 12 February in the Cedar Room, Haskins Garden Centre restaurant at 4pm. Love gardening?

Love Ferndown in Bloom. Email ferndowninbloom@ymail.com

Put on your dancing shoes

The Swing Unlimited Community Big Band is coming to Verwood Memorial Hall on 14 March. The annual dance, organized by Verwood Rotary Club starts at 7.30pm. Tickets £12.50 include a buffet supper. Funds raised will go to Verwood Rotary president’s nominated charity. To book tickets call Vern Harris on 01202 824005 or Ebblake Autocentres 01202 824516.

22 |

4DORSET February 2015

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

advertising feature

he T t e e m M a e T 2015

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

| 23

CashUnity local

Specified Period 1 Feb 2015 - 28 Feb 2015 BROADSTONE & POOLE FORUM JEWELLERS

£1,000

monthly prize guaranteed!

CashUnity HAS CHANGED!

The popular initiative devised by mags4dorset and backed by local traders has changed.

Following the launch of the scheme last year, mags4dorset has given away £12,500 in prize money to shoppers as a thank you for supporting their local traders. There were over 7,000 entries in 2014 and all the prizewinners admitted they liked using their local shops and used them regularly. This is great news and proves the scheme is working. What is even better this year is that CashUnity will ensure some of the prize money is reinvested directly with the participating traders making it a win win situation.

The monthly prize being offered under the initiative is still £1,000, but it will be awarded as follows: £500 cash to spend as the winner likes, a £250 shopping voucher to spend at the participating trader that issued the winning receipt, plus £250 in shopping vouchers, which can be broken down into £50 vouchers to spend at any of the participating traders, published in the directory. So you see, the value is the same, but the local economy is instantly better off too. The winning receipt must still be produced before the prize is allocated.

Any local businesses wanting to be part of this amazing initiative that inspires local people to use their local shops, and puts money straight back into participating traders’ businesses, get in touch now. Ring Mark on 07875 962344.

Full terms and conditions of CashUnity can be found at www.cashunity.co.uk

24 |

4DORSET February 2015

184E The Broadway, Lower Blandford Road, BH18 8DP 01202 600350 forumjewellers.co.uk

POOLE JOINERY

188 Stanley Green Road, BH15 3AH 01202 661299 poolejoinery.com

TIMS TILES

Innovation Close, BH12 4GF 01202 716969

CHRISTCHURCH & TUCKTON AVON CAUSEWAY

Hurn, Christchurch, BH23 6AS 01202 482714 avoncauseway.co.uk

CLARITY HEARING

45 High Street, BH23 1AS 01202 478881 clarity-solutions.com

HONORA (Wool Shop)

69 High Street, BH23 1AS 01202 486000 woolitwork.co.uk

NEALS & SON BUTCHERS 182 Tuckton Road, Tuckton, BH6 3AA 01202 429366 butchers-shop.co.uk

THINK PRINT

TONY SMITH KITCHENS

CROW FARM SHOP

UNDERWOOD EYECARE

THE FISH INN

517 Wimborne Road East, BH22 9NH, 01202 892200 tonysmithkitchens.co.uk

7 Penny’s Walk, BH22 9TH 01202 891955 underwoodeyecare.co.uk

XEROCAD PRINT CENTRE

527 Ringwood Road, BH22 9AQ 01202 897297 xerocad.co.uk

FERNDOWN IND. ESTATE DORSET SOILS & AGGREGATES LTD

Unit 4, 13 Cobham Road, BH21 7PE 01202 874207 sandandgravel.uk.com

HOWDENS JOINERY

47 Cobham Road, BH21 7NP 01202 876150 howdens.com

SELECT PVCU

112-114 Cobham Road, BH21 7PQ 01202 877977 selectpvcu.com

THE WHEEL SPECIALIST

21 Haviland Road, BH21 7RZ 01202 875553 thewheelspecialist.com/locations/ bournemouthdorset

FORDINGBRIDGE CAXTON DÉCOR

7 High Street, BH23 1AB 01202 473167

26-30 Salisbury Street, SP6 1AF 01425 652700 caxtondecor.co.uk

TONY HAIR

FORDINGBRIDGE BOOKSHOP

The Fountain, 1 High Street, BH23 1AE 01202 486868 tonyhair.co.uk

CRANBORNE LA FOSSE AT CRANBORNE London House, The Square BH21 5PR 01725 517604 la-fosse.com

FERNDOWN BARRINGTON THEATRE Penny’s Walk, BH22 9TH 01202 894858 barringtoncentre.co.uk

BASIC ELEGANCE

Unit 5 Longham Business Park, 168 Ringwood Road, BH22 9BU 01202 578093 basicelegancefurnishings.co.uk

CROWNING GLORY

515 Wimborne Road East, BH22 9NH 01202 892968

FERNDOWN ELECTRICAL SERVICES 125 Victoria Road, BH22 9HU 01202 872869

FERNGAS

40 Victoria Road, BH22 9HZ 01202 876020 ferngas.co.uk

INTERIORS COMPLETE

512 Wimborne Rd East, BH22 9NG 01202 890185 interiorscomplete.com

SWAN JEWELLERS

55 Victoria Road, BH22 9HU 01202 892990

15 Salisbury Street, SP6 1AB 01425 653725 fordingbridgebooks.co.uk

PRICE FARM FOODS 69 High Street, SP6 1AS 01425 652228 pricebutcheruk.co.uk

SELECT PETS & FOODS Green Lane, SP6 1HT 01425 655998

HIGHCLIFFE CHRISTCHURCH HEARING AID CENTRE LTD

351 Lymington Road, BH23 5EG 01425 272771 hearingaid-centre.co.uk

HIGHCLIFFE COACH HOLIDAYS

312 Lymington Road, BH23 5ET 01425 271111 highcliffecoachholidays.co.uk

KINSON SPECIALITY CAKES

1528 Wimborne Road, BH11 9AF 01202 572021 cakesindorset.co.uk

RINGWOOD ALLUM & SIDAWAY

47-49 High Street, BH24 1AD 01425 475180 allumandsidaway.co.uk

BICKERLEY GARAGE

Kings Arms Row, BH24 1BH 01425 470203 bickerleygarage.boschauto.co.uk

CONTAKT CARPETS

2 Pedlars Walk, BH24 1BZ 01425 477159 contaktcarpets.com

Close Date 5 Mar 2015

Crow, BH24 3EA 01425 473290 crowfarmshop.com

West Street, BH24 2AA 01425 473185 thefishinn.net

LIBERTY’S OWL, RAPTOR & REPTILE CENTRE Crow Lane, BH24 3EA 01425 476487 libertyscentre.co.uk

MADE CLOSER RETAIL LTD 2 High Street, BH24 1AF 01425 517715 madecloser.co.uk

MILLSTREAM MOTOR COMPANY

Unit 9 Millstream Trading Estate.

Christchurch Road, BH24 3SB 01425 477822 millstreammotorcompany.co.uk

PAPER MOUNTAIN

2 Meeting House Lane, BH24 1EY 01425 476751 papermountainuk.co.uk

POULNER FISH & CHIPS 4 Butlers Lane, Poulner 01425 478310

RINGWOOD SOUND & VISION 58 High Street, BH24 1AG 01425 478688 ringwoodsoundandvision.co.uk

SCOLTOCKS HEALTH FOODS 1 Market Place, BH24 1AN 01425 473787

SOUL SHED

(Cultural Gifts Store) 4 Fridays Court, High Street, BH24 1AB 07786 282381

ST MARTIN’S GALLERY

Mockbeggar Lane, Ibsley BH24 3PP 01425 489090 stmartinsgallery.co.uk

TOWNHOUSE HAIRDRESSING

19 High Street, BH24 1AB 01425 473666 townhousehair.co.uk

THREE CROSS LEWIS CONCRETE

THE SWANS RESTAURANT

Pennine Way, BH31 6UL 01202 825777 marstonstaverns.co.uk/Verwood/ Swans

VERWOOD SURPLUS STORE 52 Ringwood Road, BH31 7AJ 01202 826994 verwoodsurplus.co.uk

WEST MOORS HONEY BEE FARM

Outside Webb’s Butchers (Fri & Sat) 07823 776706 honeybeefarmshop.co.uk

SELBY BUTCHERS

150 Station Road, BH22 0JB 01202 873121

WEBB’S AWARD WINNING BUTCHERS 165 Station Road, BH22 0HT 01202 855817 facebook.com/webbsbutchers

WEST PARLEY COZY STOVES

179 New Road, BH22 8ED 01202 573084 woodburnerdorset.co.uk

TIEGLA TILES

159A New Road, BH22 8EB 01202 594459 tilesdorset.co.uk

WIMBORNE DRUSILLA’S INN

Wigbeth, Horton, BH21 7JH 01258 840297 drusillasinn.co.uk

F B SALON

Mill Lane, BH21 1JQ 01202 842282

LITTLE CANFORD GARAGE

98 Wimborne Rd West, BH21 2DS 01202 886980 littlecanfordgarage.com

MIRAGE BOUTIQUE

28 Mill Lane, BH21 1JQ 01202 881931

REEVES & GALLAGHER 14 East Street, BH21 1DS 01202 884700 reevesandgallagher.com

SCF HARDWARE

Old Barn Farm Road, Woolsbridge Ind. Park, BH21 6SP 01202 821895 lewisconcrete.co.uk

Unit 1 & 2 Brook Road, BH21 2BH 01202 857140 scfhardware.co.uk

PETALS FLORIST

Unit 3 Brook Road, BH21 2BH 01202 881509 wimbornetyres.co.uk

John Brown’s Garden Centre, Ringwood Road, BH21 6RD 01202 827444 verwoodflorists.co.uk

VERWOOD CUSTOM CREATIONS

Unit 1 Enterprise Park, Blackmoor Road, Ebblake Industrial Estate BH31 6YS 01202 823231 customcreations.furniture

EBBLAKE AUTOCENTRE

Unit 4, Verwood Trading Estate, Blackhill, BH31 6HA 01202 824516 ebblake.co.uk

GILBEY CLEANERS

29 Vicarage Road, BH31 6DR 01202 826176 gilbeycleaners.co.uk

WIMBORNE TYRES LTD

WINTON APPLIANCE ALLIANCE

8-9 Cardigan Road, BH9 1BJ 01202 513202

CARLY’S CRAFTS

1A Cardigan Road, BH9 1BJ 01202 512106

WAYAHEAD TRAVEL

731A Wimborne Road, BH9 2AX 01202 522484 wayaheadtravel.co.uk

local

Two separate stories, one happy marriage

shop local wins Lynne

£1,000 A happy knitter was the latest person to scoop the £1,000 prize in CashUnity, the shop local initiative devised by mags4dorset Lynne Tabraham from Southbourne called into her local wool shop, Honora in Christchurch, before Christmas to buy £20 worth of wool to knit a jumper for her 38-year-old son Roger.

She was encouraged by Mrs Adams, the shop owner, to enter CashUnity and was really pleased she took the advice.

“It was the first time I’d entered,” said Lynne, beaming from ear to ear.

Although it never crossed her mind that she would win, she knew just what she wanted to do with the money.

“I’m going to buy a new carpet for my lounge and get a few luxuries for myself,” she said.

When asked if she’d finished Roger’s jumper, she said, “Not yet, I’m a slow knitter, but I like knitting. I will L-R Mrs Adams Honora, Lynne, be spending Ben Pulford MD mags4dorset more money at Honora.”

Mrs Adams said, “Our customers are very happy that they have the chance to win £1,000 when shopping here. It’s a good talking point.”

The December draw was carried out by Chris Biddle, head coach of Ferndown Tennis Club on 12 January 2015.

£1,000 prize with a difference Since CashUnity, one of the best shop local initiatives around, was launched by mags4dorset in January 2014, a staggering £12,500 has been paid out to local prize winners.

From now onwards, the £1,000 prize* will be allocated differently. The winner will receive £500 cash, a £250 voucher to spend with the participating trader who issued the winner’s receipt and £250 worth of vouchers to spend at other participating traders (can be broken down into 5 x £50 vouchers). The prize is still £1,000, but it will generate reinvestment in the shops that support the initiative.

Any local businesses wishing to find out how to join CashUnity, which costs a mere £25 per month plus VAT and gives the participating trader publicity in both 4Dorset and Viewpoint and on the CashUnity website, www.cashunity. co.uk should call Mark Beechey on 07875 962344 or the office on 01202 870270.

You can also find CashUnity on Facebook, and apply to receive a monthly newsletter. *terms and conditions apply

By Janine Pulford

R

eaders may remember in January 2009, we covered a world exclusive relating to a new biography about Pakistani cricketer turned politician, Imran Khan - the man who sent shockwaves round the world in 1995 when he married heiress Jemima Goldsmith. The book Imran vs Imran by Frank Huzur has since been published.

Imran and Reham Khan © Zakir Khan

7th

In July 2010, we reported on the first open day of the Cats Protection rehoming centre on Ferndown Industrial Estate.

Hundreds of people went along, many to catch sight of the glamorous BBC South Today weather girl and TV presenter Reham Khan who supported the event along with the then Mayor of Ferndown, Cllr Jean Read.

Little did we know that just a few years later we would have another, much bigger news story relating to Imran and Reham.

The couple ‘tied the knot’ in a no frills ceremony at the beginning of this year. Both have children from previous marriages. Reham is 41 and Imran is 62.

We’d like to send them our congratulations and wish them a happy future. It is always uplifting to see a high profile couple get married in a modest manner and it was reported that Imran decided against a grand Valima

riting ive W

Creat

Co

tion mpeti

Reham at Cats Protection open day in Ferndown 2010

ceremony and chose instead to distribute food to less privileged children.

Cats Protection have also issued a statement of good wishes: We’d like to congratulate Reham on her marriage to Imran and we hope that they have many years of happiness together. We are really grateful to Reham as she helped to officially open our Ferndown cat centre in 2010 and did a piece for BBC South Today about the unwanted cats in our care that desperately needed new homes. It helped us to make the best possible start and we hope more local people adopt a cat from us in the future.

mags4dorset writing competition

LACEY LIGHTFOOT GOES TO…

Lacey Lightfoot is single, white, female. Age 23. Height 5’8”. Hair long and black. Build: curvy – weight conscious. Last job: buyer for a multi-national chain store. Love life: no current boyfriend, not ready to settle down.

L

acey shares a 3-bed house in Surbiton with friends. Housemate and confidante, Skip, always seems to be there when she needs him and she tolerates his tattered looks because he’s a good listener. Lacey aims to become chief buyer, until her great aunt Sophia dies leaving her £100,000. Lacey throws in the towel to become a freelance travel writer/reporter. Use the present or recent past tense (5 years) and take Lacey on an adventure of a lifetime.

An ebook anthology will be compiled.

Winning entrants will permit their story to be used in this way. Subject to demand, a paperback version may follow. Entrants will retain copyright of their work.

Length 1000–2500 words. No entry fee but complete the form and send in 2 first class stamps (do not stick them to anything). Double line spacing.

Closing date extended to 18 March 2015.

Full details of the competition are at www.mags4dorset.co.uk

ENTRY FORM

NAME:

ADDRESS:

TEL: EMAIL: TITLE OF STORY:

Lacey goes to...

C LOS IN 18 MA G DATE RC H 2015

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

| 25

in and around the area

what’s on

this month 1 February 8 March 11am-4.30pm

Guilded Images 2 Art Exhibition, Highcliffe Castle, Rothesay Road, Highcliffe. Exhibits from Christchurch Arts Guild including abstract, traditional, figurative and impressionist work by progressive and talented local artists.

01425 278807

1 February 31 March 10.30am-4pm

Snowdrops at Kingston Lacy, enjoy walks to experience white carpet of snowdrops.

Normal admission prices. Tractor trailer for less able on 8 dates between 10-25 February, additional £5, carers free.

Booking essential on 01202 883402

7 February 8pm

Evening of rock music with ‘The Alibi’ in aid of Cancer Research and Poole Hospital Ladybird Unit, Allendale Community Centre, Wimborne. £10.

01202 248932

8 February 10am-12noon

Christchurch winter bird boat cruise around the harbour. Meet at ferry flag on Mudeford Quay.

Adults £12, under 13s £6, RSPB members £10. Booking essential.

07968 334441

26 |

Details were correct at the time of going to print but readers are advised to check before attending events

10-14 February

Moscow City Ballet, Lighthouse, Poole’s Centre for the Arts.

Matinee and evening performances.

0844 406 8666

12 February 7.30pm

Verwood and 3LX Twinning Association, talk by Paul Hyland ‘On the Art of the Impossible’ – magic demonstrations.

Heathland Heritage Centre, Verwood.

01202 826449

14-22 February

Hands on half term activities at Beaulieu.

01590 612345

17 February 7.30pm

Concert of popular music by Bournemouth Electronic Organ Society at The Allendale Community Centre, Wimborne.

01202 590383

17 February 10.30am

Christchurch pancake races, Church Street.

17 February 11am

Wimborne pancake races around Minster.

Competitors enrol 10.30am. Bring pan and pancake.

4DORSET February 2015

19 February 8pm

Verwood Traditional Jazz Club, The Hideaway. 17 Moorlands Road, Verwood presents Sunset Cafe Stompers.

Doors open 7pm.

01202 873725

21 February 10am-2pm

Pound Puppy animal rescue bazaar, Courtyard Centre, Lytchett Minster. Dogs looking for homes can be viewed 11am-1pm.

07736 176613

22 Feburary 9am

Savills Countryside Alliance Point to Point, Badbury Rings, near Wimborne. Races, terrier racing, country crafts and shopping village. 01752 830430

22 February 10am-12noon

Christchurch winter bird boat cruise around the harbour. Meet at ferry flag on Mudeford Quay.

Adults £12, under 13s £6, RSPB members £10. Booking essential.

07968 334441

23 February 10.30am

Music for the Mind for people with memory problems, aimed at carers and cared for, United Reformed Church, Verwood.

01202 827800

23 February 11am

Understanding Strokes by Dr Damian Jenkinson, Consultant Stroke Physician, free talk organised by Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

Village Hotel, opposite RBH.

24 February 7.30pm

Verwood Historical Society, Bonny Sartin talk ‘Smuggling in Dorset and Hampshire’.

St Michael’s Parish Centre off Manor Road.

01202 824175

25 February 7.30pm

Verwood Organ & Keyboard Society.

Chris Powell playing the Roland Atelier AT900C at the Hub, Verwood.

Tickets on the door £7 (£5 members, £4 membership fee).

26 February 11am Fleet Air Arm Association meets at Royal British Legion, Church Road, Ferndown. 07815 824841

27 February 8pm Ringwood and Burley Band annual meeting.

Main hall Greyfriars, Ringwood.

28 February

Wimborne Fair Trade Steering Group, Wimborne Square.

Information about Fair Trade products.

3 March 10.15am

Free cycle ride with the Borough of Poole.

One hour ride led by experienced ride leaders starting at the Civic Centre and following a quiet, traffic-free route around Poole Park, Baiter and Whitecliff parks. Call 01202 262000 to book a place. Loan bikes can be reserved at time of booking or use your own bike.

7-8 March

Spring lambing weekend, Kingston Maurward Gardens and Animal Park, Dorchester.

01303 215001

7 March-31 May 10.30am-6pm

Spring flowers including daffodils, tulips, camellias, azaleas and rhododendrons, Kingston Lacy. Normal admission prices.

01202 883402

8 March 10.30am-2pm

Damerham Potato Day and Seed Fair, Damerham Village Hall.

01749 860039

14 March 7.30pm

5 March 7.30pm

Verwood and District Horticultural Society, ‘Vegetable Growing’, talk by Kelvin Mason.

Verwood Memorial Hall.

01202 814376

Dorset County Orchestra concert, Wimborne Minster. £10, accompanied children free. www. dorsetcountyorchestra. org.uk

4 March 11am

21 March 1.30pm

Ist World War centenary, Aspects of War talk at Bournemouth library.

‘Roses in No Man’s Land’, nursing during the war by Dorothy Gill.

01202 451451

6 March 7.30pm

Waggy Tails charity auction, Parley Country Club. 01202 875000

Verwood and District Horticultural Society spring flower show.

Verwood Memorial Hall.

01202 814376

25 March 7-10pm Stargazing from Badbury Rings with Wessex and Fordingbridge Astronomy Group.

Booking essential.

01202 883402

in and around the area

Be reduced to

COMPETITION WINNERS

The Pantomime Adventures of Robin Hood, Regent Centre, Christchurch – Colin Bundy of Southbourne. Answer archer’s hat. £50 Haskins Gift Card – Maureen Eady of Ringwood.

Answer amaryllis.

S

ince its 1981 origins in California, the Reduced Shakespeare Company has created seven stage shows, all of which have been performed the world over. The company’s itinerary has included stops at the White House, New York’s Lincoln Center, London’s West End, as well as Israel, Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Japan, Malta, Belgium, The Netherlands, Singapore and Bermuda. Christchurch is about to be added to this list when as part of an 80 city UK and Ireland tour, the company brings The Complete History of Comedy (abridged) to the Regent Centre on Wednesday 18 March.

In the past they’ve skewered history, the Bible and the world’s most celebrated playwright. Now, the Reduced Shakespeare Company is tackling the subject it was born to reduce. From the highbrow to the low,The Complete History of Comedy (abridged) covers comedy through the ages, from Aristophanes and Shakespeare to Vaudeville and Charlie Chaplin.

It tries to give answers to the fundamental questions: Which is the least funny nationality? Which is the funniest? Why did the former try to exterminate the latter? Why, in fact, did the chicken cross the road?

set have two tickets to The Regent Centre and mags4dor rious evening. give away for what should be a hila

To be in with a chance of winning the tickets tell us in which country did the Reduced Shakespeare Company originate?

Enter through our website: www. mags4dorset.co.uk or send your answer on a postcard to comedy competition, mags4dorset, 1st Floor, King George V Pavilion, Peter Grant Way, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9EN. Closing date is 23 February 2015. The first correct entry drawn will be the winner. Employees of Page and Pulford Ltd and The Regent Centre are not permitted to enter. There is no cash alternative. The editor’s decision is final.

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

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local

MONTHLY HOROSCOPES with RUSSELL GRANT FEBRUARY 2015

ARIES March 21 - April 20 You might have to visit someone at hospital on or around the 18th, when the New Moon sends stress signals to serious Saturn.

Problems with bones and teeth will require immediate medical attention.

Life becomes much easier and breezier after the 20th, when your ambitions will soar sky high.

TAURUS April 21 - May 21 The New Moon on the 18th warns against getting or giving loans. If you’re short of cash, try to make ends meet with existing resources. A secret romance gives the final days of February a dash of spice.

GEMINI May 22 - June 21 The New Moon on the 18th brings a fresh career opportunity, but there will be strings attached. You won’t have much time for a private life if you accept this position.

Your authority and experience will come in handy around the end of February. A teaching position will be lucrative and enjoyable.

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4DORSET February 2015

CANCER June 22 - July 23 Valentine’s Day will be a disappointment, when work or ill health forces you to stay home. The New Moon on the 18th warns against getting embroiled in a lawsuit. You’re better off cutting your losses than taking this matter to court. An intense flirtation gives you an attractive glow throughout the second half of February.

LIBRA September 24 - October 23 The New Moon on the 18th marks an unwanted work assignment. As much as you will dislike working for a particular client, you will have to fulfil this job. Don’t be surprised when the customer continually changes their mind and places impossible demands on you. Fortunately, an attentive lover will be on hand to cheer you up.

LEO July 24 - August 23 The New Moon on the 18th marks a power struggle.

If you’re single, it may be because you expect too much of a romantic partner. If you’re in a relationship, use the closing days of February to make amends. A little tenderness will go a long way.

SCORPIO October 24 - November 22 Valentine’s Day may be unsatisfying, thanks to financial constraints. Try not to be too disappointed if you don’t receive the gift you wanted.

The New Moon on the 18th warns against taking gambles you can’t afford.

You’re better off keeping your money safe in the bank.

VIRGO August 24 - September 23 The New Moon on the 18th puts strain on a close relationship.

Have a heart to heart discussion with your best friend or lover about the frustration you’re experiencing. Working from home will prove productive in the final days of February.

SAGITTARIUS November 23 - December 21 You may feel fed up and moody on Valentine’s Day, thanks to a misunderstanding.

Try not to take jokes too personally. The New Moon on the 18th forces you to be more realistic about a family matter. If a relative needs extra care or a different living arrangement, you will have work to do.

CAPRICORN December 22 - January 20 The New Moon on the 18th warns against signing contracts. A hidden clause will come back to haunt you later.

Hold off on sealing the deal until the end of February, when you can negotiate a better arrangement. Stand your ground as February turns to March.

AQUARIUS January 21 - February 19 The New Moon on the 18th attracts a job, but there are strings attached. Accepting this position will keep you away from your friends, thanks to the unorthodox hours involved. A better opportunity in the creative field will come along as February turns to March.

PISCES February 20 - March 20 Valentine’s Day could turn out to be a deflating disappointment when your boss asks you to work late. The New Moon on the 18th warns against making drastic changes to your appearance. Don’t waste money on an expensive salon treatment you will later regret. It will be difficult to get time off work during the second half of February.

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4DORSET February 2015

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