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Thank heavens it is finally spring. Fingers crossed, we can look forward to warmer weather and more daylight in the evenings. Don’t forget that the clocks go forward on 30 March.
Winter was bitterly cold, and we spent most of January and February inside. My intention in March is to try and go for more walks outside and enjoy seeing nature come back to life. There are some pleasant routes to walk around our estate in Wimborne, including to the River Stour. I might even be brave and try getting the kayak out of the garden shed.
My DIY project for the month will be to find time to put together a bike shed for the garden. Getting the bikes out from the back of the garden shed and making them more accessible might actually encourage me to go cycling more often – if the weather is agreeable, of course.
It will also be nice to go for more walks in the afternoon. After getting home from the office or bringing the children home from school, it will be good for all of us to get outside and breathe fresh air. What are you looking forward to doing this springtime? Write in to let us know.
We have a great issue for you this month. As well as an interview with the ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ stars on our cover, we have several theatre reviews, a preview for the Wimborne Minster Flower Festival, and a new column from Ferndown Town Council telling us all about their plans for the town in the coming months. I hope you enjoy reading it.
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Plans for a new Wessex combined authority rejected by government
For months, Dorset, Wiltshire, Somerset and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Councils had worked together on a devolution deal to create a new Wessex combined authority under an elected mayor.
Devolution would have pooled resources among the four councils and given greater local control over key areas such as transport, housing, and economic development.
However, the Wessex bid was rejected by the government in early February.
In a joint statement, the leaders of the four councils said: “The decision not to include Wessex within the Devolution Priority Programme is extremely disappointing.
“We feel the Wessex
proposal aligned with the aims of the White Paper, encompassing a population of approximately 1.9 million, with the region well placed to support the government’s growth priorities, particularly in clean energy, defence, digital technologies, life sciences, and tourism.
“The area could now miss out on essential funding and, combined with the likely defunding of panregional partnerships and the substantial reduction in the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the fact that this will now be delayed when we are ready to go is deeply regrettable.”
Reflecting on the decision, Cllr Nick Ireland, leader of Dorset Council, said it was a huge disappointment,
especially as the councils had worked hard, in good faith, to meet the government’s expectations.
He said: “We had excellent feedback on our bid, we were told it was very strong, and we met all the criteria the government had asked for, but at the end of the day they could only put a small number of councils on the Priority Programme.
“For Dorset, and Wessex, to be overlooked by government for vital funding opportunities again, is incredibly frustrating.”
However, hopes for devolution are not over. According to Cllr Ireland, a letter from government officials stated that the conversation over devolution would continue.
Cllr Ireland said: “We will
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regroup and see what happens next, and we hope there may be opportunities for Dorset to develop the excellent relationships we’ve built with our neighbours and pursue devolution in the future.”
By Paul Webb, Dorset Water Softeners
A spring in your step, spring cleaning or Spring Fever, it’s that time of year. After being trapped inside through winter, we all crave to get outside into the light. Hopefully, the bulbs in the garden will start popping up (if they have not drowned) and we can once again rediscover our passion for the great outdoors. We might even be able to take some walks without being blown sideways. We could all go crazy and cancel our Netflix subscriptions.
The best part of spring are those days where we get to throw open all the windows and finally let in the fresh air to blow the winter cobwebs away and to get rid of the fug of winter. So much better than air fresheners and vanilla-scented candles.
My spring will involve a trip to Amsterdam to attend the
biggest Water Treatment Trade Fair in Europe. This is held every two years and is a very important event in our industry for professional companies. We will be a bit early for the spring tulips, but I am sure we will have a great time. So, whatever you decide to get up to from gardening to canoeing, walking to motorcycling, have a great season. If you intend to spring clean your home, remember that soft water makes the job so much easier as it banishes scale, leaving clean showers, shiny kettles, protected appliances and less need for cleaning products — what better way to save money and have a lovely, clean home? For more information, please look at our website dorsetwatersofteners.com or contact us on 01202 375565.
More than 100 play areas across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole are to be revitalised. Works will include a new seesaw in Littledown, a replacement goal in Southbourne, and fixed swing seats in Christchurch.
BCP Council has secured £3.9m to re-energise play spaces across the region. Of this funding, £435,000 will be used to carry out repairs in as many play areas as possible.
The extensive project is the largest in the history of BCP Council.
Cllr Sandra Moore, portfolio holder with responsibility for Play Strategy, said: “Some of our best memories as children are formed whilst playing with friends – and that should be no different for the next generation.
“I am thrilled to see this investment into upgrading spaces that are crucial for children’s development and making sure we provide play areas that will be at the heart of our communities for years to come.”
A total of 17 sites have been earmarked for major refurbishment or replacements, and repairs will take place over the next two years.
Labour MP for Bournemouth East, Tom Hayes, who has been campaigning for better playgrounds, welcomed the announcement. He said: “Bournemouth’s playgrounds desperately need a boost, so it’s great that investment is coming our way.”
Application refused
Dorset Council has turned down an application to demolish four bungalows at 5–8 Primrose Hill, Witchampton in order to erect four new homes. Poole Museum to re-open in the summer
Having been closed for two and a half years for a major redevelopment, Poole Museum is to re-open in the summer – and entry will still be free. There will be three new maritime galleries; increased interactive and engaging displays; a new temporary exhibitions gallery bringing national touring exhibitions to Poole; a vibrant events and activities programme; better access throughout the museum’s estate; conserved and restored heritage buildings; and a welcoming new cafe space and enhanced wedding venue.
Cycle for the stars
Salisbury Hospital’s charity The Stars Appeal is organising Pedal for the Stars, a sponsored bike ride of 250 miles from 20–24 September from Salisbury Hospital to Paris. To take part, visit starsappeal.org/event/starsappeal-pedal-for-the-stars/ or call 01722 429005.
The mayor at Hayeswood First School assembly
The Mayor of Wimborne, Cllr Jeff Hart, visited several local school assemblies in January to speak about the work in the community his role entails.
Cllr Hart thanked the schools for supporting his charities –Wimborne Hospital and Planet Wimborne – by holding non-uniform days in February.
He said: “I am so grateful to the fantastic local schools taking part: QE, Allenbourn, Pamphill, Witchampton, Colehill First, and Hayeswood First. It has been a pleasure to visit their assemblies, share insights about my work, and see the enthusiasm of students.”
The mayor initially set a fundraising target of £5,000, which has already been achieved. He is now aiming to double that amount to £10,000 with continued community support.
Sharon Staddon, executive headteacher of Pamphill and Witchampton First Schools, said: “The mayor’s visits were a fantastic opportunity for our pupils to engage with local leadership and learn more about the role of the mayor in our community.”
The shelves have been cleaned at Wimborne Minster Chained Library, the books have been dusted and examined for any deterioration that may need restoration or repair, additions to the library have been catalogued and listed, and books have been selected for the display cabinet. Also, new volunteers have been recruited and trained.
The library is ready for this season which runs from 31 March to 31 October, open from 10.30am to 12.30pm and 2pm to 4pm, plus the first and third Saturday mornings of the month. It is also open during the various festivals held in Wimborne.
Volunteer Mike Twomey said: “Last year was a record year for us with over 8,000 visitors, as well as academics and researchers using the library to further their studies and understanding of the past –the true and historic meaning of our library as envisaged by our founders in 1685.”
Local people are invited to witness the freedom of the town of Wimborne Minster being conferred on 280 (NATO) Signal Squadron on Saturday 22 March.
This prestigious honour recognises the squadron’s dedication, service, and longstanding connection to the community. The Freedom Parade will see members exercising their newly granted right to march through Wimborne Minster with bayonets fixed, drums beating, and colours flying. They will be supported by the band of the Grenadier Guards.
The celebrations will begin with a parade through the town centre.
Local dignitaries, including the mayor of Wimborne Minster, civic leaders, and senior military personnel, will be in attendance to commemorate the occasion. A formal ceremony in the Square will follow, featuring speeches, a presentation of the Freedom Scroll,
and an inspection of the troops.
The event schedule is: at 1.45pm, the parade assembles at the Wimborne Royal British Legion car park and marches to the Square; at 2pm, the Freedom of Wimborne Minster ceremony will be held in the Square; at approximately 2.15pm, the parade will march through Wimborne Minster; at approximately 3.15pm, a VIP guest lunch will be held at the Wimborne Royal British Legion.
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By Rob Price, Associate, Family Law Solicitor
“Every right has its responsibilities.”
There are very well-known, established laws relating to the care of children. Parental responsibility (PR) means “all the rights, duties, powers, responsibilities and authority which by law a parent of a child has in relation to the child and his property”.
All mothers automatically have PR. Fathers acquire PR if they are married to the mother, if their name is present on the child’s birth certificate, or there is a parental responsibility agreement completed between you. If none of this applies, the court can order it.
To put the Children Act 1989 statute into plain English, the sorts of issues that relate to a contribution for someone with PR are as follows:
Agreement or court application?
Your partner can seek PR by agreement or court application if no other valid legal
principle exists. For example, your child may be born having been conceived by IVF, both parents are the same sex and there is no civil partnership.
As time goes by Parents with PR can make decisions about their child’s education, religion, and medical care, as well as day-to-day decisions regarding outings, leisure, and nutrition.
Obviously, these decisions will vary as time goes on and the child grows up enough to have their own preferences, but that should be a time when you can all work together and compromise.
PR can be removed if a parent is deemed to be particularly disruptive to the child’s welfare, although this is rare.
Do make an appointment to see one of our experts for a free half hour consultation if this or any other family matter is of concern to you.
Law Spot is for information only and does not constitute legal advice
Anti-social behaviour in Poole Bus Station has been a cause of concern for years, but thanks to the efforts of Dorset Police and its partners, there has been a fall in incidents.
Dorset’s Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “I am pleased to say that in the past three years, the number of incidents and the severity of these incidents have reduced significantly. In 2022, the total number of reported incidents at the bus station was 214. Last year, this dropped to 87, with efforts focused on reducing this even further.
“From the challenges faced at this location in 2019 through to the present day, significant improvements have taken place including physical changes to the site and extra CCTV.
“I want to reassure the public that work will continue to ensure this location is safe for everyone.”
Sidwick urged residents to report any issues they have seen or have experienced directly to Dorset Police on 101, or via the Dorset Police website.
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By Victoria Vinton
Bournemouth Collegiate School (BCS) is an independent school in Dorset offering the very best in independent co-education, day and boarding, from ages three to 18.
Located across two sites in the Bournemouth area, our Senior School is positioned just a five-minute walk from the sunny sands of Southbourne beaches, while our Prep School is situated in the leafy suburb of Lower Parkstone.
Our focus at Bournemouth Collegiate School is to offer a fulfilling, all-round holistic education which places equal importance on academic and personal achievements and developments for our pupils throughout their BCS journey.
We pride ourselves on delivering ‘Education with Character’, providing a breadth of opportunities and experiences which help inspire and round our pupils into confident, happy and ambitious young adults. For more information, visit bournemouthcollegiateschool.co.uk.
10-year-old Charlie Forbes is collecting sports equipment on behalf of young runners in South Africa
Dedicated runner Charlie Forbes, from Holt near Wimborne, has set up his own charity to help young athletes in Africa by providing them with trainers, t-shirts and sports clothes, and he needs your help.
The 10-year-old has completed over 120 Parkruns – the free weekly 5K sporting events that are held around the world. He decided to start the charity, called ‘Run 2 Renew’, after taking part in a Parkrun event in South Africa.
Charlie said: “I was shocked at how many of the children my age were running in bare feet, and after speaking to the organiser, I wanted to help.”
He met with Lizzy Mabaso, who organises the Cannibals Cave Parkrun event in an area near the Drakensberg Mountains in South Africa.
“The week I ran, she had run out of fuel for the water pump generator and the children running had nothing to drink at the end of the 5K run. Living in the UK, I can turn on the tap and drink water anytime. This made me realise we all need to help,” Charlie recalls.
Run 2 Renew is looking to collect second-hand trainers and sport shoes, as well as t-shirts and running shorts, from people in Dorset and will take them to South Africa later in the year, where they will be distributed to dedicated but disadvantaged youngsters in the area by Lizzy to help them participate in sport.
The charity needs running trainers (not fashion shoes or plimsoles) and lightweight running tops and shorts for men, women and children aged eight years and upwards. Charlie and his family are happy to collect from people’s doorsteps in the Wimborne and Colehill area. Or if you contact the charity with your name and address, they will send a pre-paid bag in which to post your secondhand items.
To find out more about the charity or to make a donation, visit run2renew.org.uk using the password ‘Charlie’ or send an email to jsforbes@mac.com.
Highcliffe Food and Arts Festival, which celebrates it 10th anniversary this year, has announced that Christchurch-based restaurateur Colin Nash will be the festival’s headline sponsor for 2025.
The annual festival, which features street food, cookery demonstrations, arts and crafts and market stalls, will take place on Saturday 14 and 15 June.
The Colin Nash Restaurant is located at The Retreat on Lyndhurst Road and is part of the Hinton Admiral Estate. Nash exclusively sources seasonal and locally procured produce, including Mudeford-caught fish.
He said: “I have been working with the founder Mary Reader and the team for 10 years at Highcliffe Food and Arts Festival, and I have always appreciated seeing the local produce showcased at the event and have loved seeing the local community coming together. It is an honour to be able to support the festival and raise the profile of our beautiful restaurant.”
Tina Jaffray, chair of the festival, said: “Colin’s ethos perfectly matches the theme that runs throughout our family-oriented festival, with the majority of our stallholders
offering locally produced food and quality artisan products. We are thrilled to be working with Colin and are so grateful for his support.”
For more information, visit highcliffefoodandartsfestival.co.uk.
Local people will be relieved to hear that a plan to introduce evening and overnight parking charges in Dorset Council car parks has been halted – for now
The council says it has listened to initial concerns from councillors and the public, concluding that it was clear the introduction of such charges should not be decided until a thorough review of all parking services had taken place.
A spokesman said: “This review will commence as soon as possible and may take anything up to six to nine months, as it will need to involve engagement with our residents, business owners, and local members. This will give us a better understanding of changing trends in car park usage, how the location of our car parks affects parking behaviour, and the impact of all parking charges on residents, visitors, and local businesses.”
Two stories showcase the potential of the SWEF Enterprise Fund to change lives and help the local economy grow
Two Dorset residents have been able to build their own businesses thanks to SWEF Enterprise Fund grants from Dorset Community Foundation.
The fund helps young people aged 18 to 30 to overcome financial challenges and other disadvantages to develop their enterprise with grants of up to £2,000 to go towards the cost of training, product development and equipment or stock.
The next Ralph Lauren?
Clothes designer Max Onn is building his own fashion empire with the help of two grants from the fund.
The 23-year-old from Bournemouth has received £1,200 over the last two years. Onn used YouTube videos to teach himself how to design and make clothes, and he has established a reputation for the edgy, distressed look of his shirts, jackets and hoodies.
“One day I thought I’d get the sewing machine out and go for it,” he said. “That was about a year and eight months ago and I don’t think I’ve spent a day since then not using one.”
Onn used his own savings to get his business off the ground but needed more money for stock and equipment to expand. He learned about the SWEF fund from another grant recipient and applied.
“The application process was really easy in the end,” he said. “At first I was a bit anxious about explaining what I wanted to do but when I spoke to everyone and had an online meeting it was very chilled out and everyone was very nice.”
Onn spent the grants on stock, a cutting table, storage, a website and equipment including a camera to help promote his brand online.
“The grant has really helped my business
and having the right equipment and being able to buy stock has helped make me much better at producing clothes. I really love doing it and I get a buzz seeing someone wear something I’ve made.”
Meanwhile, a Poole man has been able to start his own photography and videography business, thanks to a £1,500 SWEF grant.
Morgan Reeves, 29, began building up his business with photographic jobs at weekends and evenings and on his annual leave.
He had planned to save enough money to leave a job in credit control and start his own business but the company he worked for went into administration. When his redundancy came earlier than expected last May, he turned Salterns Creative into his
full-time job.
However, he only had one camera, a relatively basic model he’d owned for several years.
“I’d been offered a job shooting a client’s online teaching course that required a lot of video,” he said. “My camera was a little bit above entry level but by no means a professional camera. This job was a week of shooting everything at different angles so having just one camera would have exacerbated the recording – and my camera kept overheating.”
He discovered the client had himself received a SWEF Enterprise grant and he encouraged Reeves to apply. Reeves said having a second camera has transformed
his business.
He added: “I’m incredibly grateful for the grant because with this camera I feel confident in accepting and agreeing to jobs, knowing I have equipment that’s capable.
“The last six months has probably been the hardest, most tiring and sometimes very lonely six months of my life but I would make the decision again 10 times out of 10 and I can’t wait to see what the next year brings.” To find out more about SWEF Enterprise grants and how to apply, visit dorsetcommunityfoundation.org.
Dorset charity, Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, opened its 10th retail shop on 29 January.
Located at 44–46 Victoria Road in Ferndown, The House Clearance Shop offers preloved items at affordable prices, with all proceeds directly supporting the hospice’s services.
At the opening event, the local community was invited to meet the team, enjoy refreshments, and browse the store’s inventory, which ranges from furniture to homewares. Purchasing second-hand items not only supports the charity but benefits the environment by preventing landfill waste.
Lewis-Manning’s Director of Retail Susan Newcombe said the charity
was “thrilled” to be opening the new shop in Ferndown.
She added: “We’re incredibly proud of the impact our charity has on sustainability. Just last week alone, we sold 7,738 items, preventing them from ending up in landfill and saving an impressive 107,349.70 kg in CO2 emissions. Expanding our retail network will help us further this mission and generate muchneeded funds for our services.”
Lewis-Manning offers a house clearance service to help those moving, downsizing, or clearing out a home. The value of any donated items can be taken off the cost of the clearance. To find out more, call 01202 086051, or visit lewis-manning. org.uk/house-clearance.
Students at Ferndown Middle School are learning to mix funky beats thanks to the new ‘DJ Club’.
Head of Music Scott Welcomme managed to secure the loan of some high-tech turntables for the benefit of the school, and now students are creating their own music and effects on the decks during the popular morning group. Some of the aspiring turntablists are even lined up to DJ at up-coming school discos.
Welcomme said: “It’s much more than clicking play
on the decks. To nudge and get an exact beat match –while the tracks are playing – is the art of turntablism.
“The enthusiasm has led to other pupils using the decks in class and at lunchtimes.”
DJ Isla from Year 6 said: “It has really given me confidence and makes me want to come to school. It’s really fun and cool – there are loads of songs and you have the power to control them.”
Ferndown Middle School is part of Castleman Academy Trust.
By Ferndown Town Council
Ferndown Town Council has been working hard to make the town an even better place to live. The Mayor, Cllr Terry Cordery, states that “since the election, our town council has been working tirelessly to get up to speed on the key issues that matter most to our residents. Our commitment to transparency, progress, and community wellbeing remains at the heart of everything we do. Thank you for your trust –we remain dedicated to keep moving forward together and we have some updates to share.”
Victoria Road: The council is working with Dorset Council to deliver significant improvements to Victoria Road. Dorset Council has removed the deteriorating planters and trees which will make way for a new sustainable planting scheme
and functional seating. Dorset Council is currently working with Ferndown Town Council on producing a variety of options.
As soon as plans are available, there will be a consultation exercise with residents and business owners.
Full Council with Cllr Nick Ireland, leader of Dorset Council: A huge thank you to the members of the public who attended a recent Full Council meeting with town councillors and Cllr Nick Ireland. It was fantastic to see the community come together to share ideas and concerns.
Please join the council at its upcoming events: VE Day events
7–10 May: Join the community in commemorating the 80th anniversary of VE Day during several events over these days.
The Bournemouth Youth Marching Band’s FREE spring concert 19 March, 7.15pm: Get ready for an evening of traditional military wind band music fused with modern pop classics! Full Council meeting 26 March 2025: Residents are encouraged to attend and ask questions directly to their town councillors during the meeting.
Mayor of Ferndown’s charity quiz 27 March 2025: SOLD OUT! Raising funds for The John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation.
Look for further updates on these events on the Ferndown Town Council website. Whether it’s feedback on town projects or new ideas, your input helps shape our community. Feel free to reach out, attend a
meeting, or stop by the office at The Barrington Centre. Ferndown Town Council customerservices@ ferndown.gov.uk 01202 892249 www.ferndown.gov.uk
A charity supporting young homeless families in Dorset more than reached its fundraising target of £10,000 in January.
In fact, Home-Start Wessex raised £10,295.18 in The Big Give, the UK’s biggest match-funded campaign, where any donations made by the public are doubled through matched funding from government bodies, philanthropists, charitable foundations or corporations.
Kathy Fryatt-Banks, CEO of Home-Start Wessex, said: “This was the first year Home-Start Wessex had taken part in The Big Give, and we were blown away by the support we received.”
The funding will help to keep the charity’s weekly support group for homeless families open. “Every family at the shelter is struggling to cope
with not having a stable home for their child,” Kathy said. “As well as being homeless, they are also managing complex issues such as mental health difficulties, post-natal depression, domestic violence, poverty and loneliness.”
Over the last year, the charity has helped a record 501 families. It covers the Purbecks, Swanage, Weymouth, Dorchester, Bridport, Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch, and across the borders of Hampshire and Wiltshire, going as far north as Cranborne and Fordingbridge and as far east as New Milton.
The charity is recruiting family support volunteers. If you can help, email heidi@ homestartwessex.org.uk.
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Macmillan Caring Locally are thrilled to announce a ‘National Legacy’ TV campaign for local hospice care by Hospice UK. Gifts in wills are crucial, contributing nearly 70 per cent of Macmillan’s funding.
This coalition of 143 hospices across England, Scotland, and Wales, facilitated by Hospice UK, aims to boost awareness and legacy income for local hospices.
Launched on 17 February 2025, with a second burst in September, the campaign is expected to reach 10 million people aged 55 and over through 21 TV channels.
Macmillan Caring Locally, supporting your local hospice in Christchurch for 50 years, joins this initiative to attract donors to leave a gift in their will, ensuring the future of its care.
Your will is vital, ensuring
your loved ones are cared for and your wishes fulfilled. After providing for family and friends, consider supporting Macmillan Caring Locally. More people are including charitable gifts in their wills, which are essential for its work.
You can leave a gift in three ways:
Residuary Gift: A share of your estate after other payments.
Pecuniary Gift: A fixed amount of money.
Specific Gift: A particular item of value.
Updating an existing will? Speak to your solicitor about making a new will or adding a codicil.
Once you have taken care of family and friends, will you leave a gift in your will to Macmillan Caring locally? For more information, contact lin@macmillanlocal.org.
Local businesses say that the National Insurance (NI) rise due to take place on 6 April will have a hugely negative effect on them.
Dorset Chamber conducted a poll in which 91 per cent of respondents said that they were concerned about the rise, with many warning that they will be forced to freeze recruitment and pay rises, cut jobs or halt investment.
From April, employers will have to pay NI at 15 per cent on salaries above £5,000, instead of 13.8 per cent on salaries above £9,100 currently.
The chamber has written to Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Dorset MPs about the survey results. It has also invited the chancellor to visit Dorset to speak to those businesses set to be hardest hit by the hike.
Dorset Chamber Chief Executive Ian Girling
said: “In what is already an extremely challenging business climate, these findings reflect very serious concerns around the impact of these increases.
“Many are around sustaining and growing employment, future pay rewards for a workforce that already faces severe cost of living increases, business growth and investment and, ultimately, the survival of many businesses.”
Disability charity Diverse Abilities is launching a new ‘Lunch with…’ series, with the first one featuring an all-female panel to mark International Women’s Day.
To be held at The Village Hotel in Bournemouth on Friday 7 March, it will be hosted by Stella Mills, a freelance sports broadcaster who has worked with the
Dorset’s disability charity, Diverse Abilities, is looking for volunteers to help with ongoing projects and a series of its own and community events throughout the year. Visit diverseabilities.org.uk/volunteer for more information about the roles available and to register your interest. Pictured is the fundraising team.
BBC, TalkSport, and many more brands across her career. She will be joined by Anna Turney and Helena Bourdillon. Turney is a Paralympic skier who has represented Great Britain in multiple Paralympic Games around the world. After a life-changing accident while snowboarding in Yamagata, she had to adapt her previous knowledge and skills to become a monoskier.
Bourdillon is a GB Freediver and world record holder. When not in the water, she talks about her mental health journey, her recovery from battling depression, and sharing the skills she has learned to translate into life and business.
Demi Tarrant, events executive at Diverse Abilities, said: “We are really looking forward to our first event of the series, and to hear some inspiring talks about mental health and wellbeing through a series of talks from sportswomen.”
To book your place, visit diverseabilities.org.uk/lunchwith.
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A Wimborne-based master upholsterer with 50 years of experience is launching a new line of armchairs designed especially for young children.
The new chairs from The Dorset Chairman Ltd are designed to be small, compact and provide plenty of support for children aged two to eight years old.
The inspiration for the ‘Granfers’ armchair (named after a slang term for grandfather) came in 2024 when Alan Payne, owner of The Dorset Chairman, found out he was going to become a grandparent for the first time.
“When my son told me I was going to be a grandad, I began to look around for some children’s chairs,” recalls Alan. “When I looked online, what I found was rubbish: lumps of foam with fabric thrown over them. Even the upholstered chairs for children, you think ‘how can that be £115 and still be of a quality?’ So, I thought: ‘I’ll make them’.”
The Granfers use a decobased design, not just for its simplicity, but for the support it will give to a child. The upright shape and square arms will help children to sit up and feel more comfortable and secure.
“If you put a five-year-old in a regular armchair, they will
slouch and slide off,” explains Alan. “But if you give them something that is the right size and shape, with support in the right places, then they will be happier to sit in them.”
Alan’s career in upholstery began when he was just 13 years old, and he has many years of manufacturing experience. He has spent his career repairing, mending and re-covering old furniture, making it fit for purpose and saving it from landfill. With that ethos, the Granfers are designed with longevity in mind.
“These are intended to last well into the future,” he says. “I haven’t built them just for the new generation, but for the generations to follow.”
The Granfers come in four main colours, though other fabrics can be selected. Starting at £245, the handcrafted chairs are made to order and can be ready for collection from the point of purchase in less than 28 days.
While the compact, comfortable Granfers could take pride of place in a nursery, Alan imagines they would be most suitable in a grandparent’s home.
“The Granfers could be put in your living room when your grandchildren come to visit, so
that they feel included and have their own special place in your home. It’s important to have your own space, whatever age you are.”
Profits from the sale of Granfers will also go back into the local community, as Alan is developing an internship and apprenticeship project for young people to learn the trade.
“The internships will help prepare them for work in the future and learn about upholstery,” explains Alan. “We will also offer apprenticeships with the company, with a view to long-term employment as an upholsterer.”
To find out more about the Granfers or to place an order, see ‘Granfer’ in his workshop at Wimborne Garden Centre, or visit dorsetchairman.co.uk.
By Jane Benson
In February 2024, a lovely lady called Jackie Richardson came to join us at the garden. She had recently moved back to the area to be nearer her daughter
and much-loved granddaughter Poppy, and she hoped the garden would be a place where she could make friends and come to terms with the recent
loss of her precious husband.
In no time at all, Jackie got stuck in, both with taking on jobs in the garden and in making so many friends – we couldn’t help but love Jackie, she was a real gem and always sparkled. She was so generous to the garden not only with her time, but also through gifts. If ever you walk past the garden and hear the gong booming out to call us all to tea, well, that was Jackie’s idea and the gong one of her gifts!
So, when she became ill in the latter part of the year, we were so shocked and concerned for her. Then, in early January, Jackie tragically died.
We truly miss her. The colour, joy and laughter Jackie brought to the garden was wonderful, but we count ourselves lucky that,
albeit for far too short a time, we were lucky enough to know her and bask in the warmth of her sunny self. Thanks, Jackie, for all you shared with us. As 2025 begins, the garden is slowly but surely coming back to life after what seems to have been a long, hard winter. Out in the beds we have garlic, onions, broad beans and rhubarb quietly growing, whilst in the greenhouse early peas, parsnips and leeks are developing their shoots. We’ve also got several types of potatoes chitting in the polytunnel getting ready for being planted later in the season. It’s also so heartening to see bulbs coming up all around the garden with promises of glorious colour to come. Roll on springtime!
Following an inspection in January, Allenbourn Middle School was rated ‘outstanding’ in personal development and in behaviour and attitudes and ‘good’ in the other two categories assessed by Ofsted.
The report praised the school’s ambition for pupils to achieve highly and develop their individual character and said pupils show “exceptionally positive attitudes towards their learning”.
Inspectors commended the school’s leadership team, saying they have created a clear vision for the school which has led to success and progress in many areas.
The report added that the collaborative work of the school’s trust, Initio, has led to rapid improvements in many areas of the school.
Inspectors said that Allenbourn “accurately identifies” the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities and helps adults to support these pupils effectively.
Ofsted also praised the range of extra-curricular clubs and activities on offer at Allenbourn and noted that pupil engagement is high.
Mark Legge, headteacher, said: “Our children have worked so very hard to ensure that our school is one that our community can be proud of, and they should be congratulated for their superb attitudes to learning and exemplary conduct.”
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By Team Frazzled
Are you looking for a welcoming, judgement-free space to share how you really feel? Join us at Wimborne Library (BH21 1HH) every Monday from 6.30pm to 7.30pm for free Frazzled meetings. Come along at 6.15pm to have a cuppa before we start!
In 2017, Frazzled was founded by the comedian Ruby Wax, and ever since it has been dedicated to providing spaces where adults can connect, share, and listen in a confidential place. One in four of us in the UK have a mental illness, but four out of four of us are frazzled – and yet so many of us lack a place where we can cut the small talk and share how we actually feel. Frazzled meetings are this space – come on in and let it out.
These meetings are run by Frazzled’s fantastic, trained volunteers, who will guide you through an initial mindfulness exercise, before opening the space for anyone who would like
to share what’s going on for them.
Based on our feedback, 85 per cent of people feel better after coming along to a Frazzled meeting – with a previous attendee sharing that: “Frazzled is a safe place filled with open ears, compassion, and healing.”
Why not come along and try a session? To book, scan the QR code or head to frazzledcafe.org/ wimborne.html. If you have any questions or want to know more, please email team@frazzledcafe.org.
April this year marks what would have been the 40th birthday of Lieutenant John Thornton RM. To commemorate this, the Ferndown-based John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation (JTYAF), which was set up in his memory, has announced the ‘40 For JT’ charity challenge.
Participants are asked to raise a minimum of £40 by completing a sponsored event centred around the number 40. Volunteers and supporters are planning a diverse range of activities including: playing 40 holes of golf in one session; walking 40,000 steps in a day; performing 40 good deeds; baking and selling 40 cupcakes, or running, walking or cycling 40K or 40 miles.
Since JTYAF was established in 2008 following John’s tragic death while serving with 40 Commando Royal Marines in Afghanistan, the foundation has supported over 2,500 young individuals and nearly 200 whole
school and group projects. The challenge has already sparked enthusiasm among local schools and organisations supported by JTYAF. ‘40 for JT’ runs from 29 March to John’s birthday on 12 April, giving almost two weeks to complete the challenge. For more details, visit jtyaf.org/events/40-for-jt.
Veterans, reservists, and members of the armed forces and their families can be assured of good care from University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust (UHD).
In January, the Trust received approval of its Veteran Aware Accreditation for a further three years. This acknowledges a number of key pledges UHD has made, including: ensuring that the armed forces community is never disadvantaged compared to other patients, in line with the NHS’s commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant; training relevant staff on veteran-specific culture or needs; making veterans, reservists and service families aware of appropriate charities or NHS services beneficial to them, such as mental health
services or support with financial and/or benefit claims; and supporting the armed forces as an employee.
Rob Horby, Armed Forces community advocate at UHD, said: “The Armed Forces Support Group and I are tremendously proud that UHD has gained re-accreditation for the Veteran Aware Scheme.
“This reflects UHD’s commitment to deliver the best healthcare and support to veterans and their families. Since receiving the Veterans Aware accreditation in November 2021, UHD has continued to ensure patients and colleagues from the armed forces community are not disadvantaged when accessing healthcare at UHD, ensuring they receive the appropriate support.”
By Jannine Loveys, fundraising manager at DCCF
Whether you are looking for a Mother’s Day gift with a difference or have always wondered what it feels like to stand on top of a moving plane, the Dorset Cancer Care Foundation offers a range of ways for you to say I love you and enjoy thrilling experiences, all while supporting Dorset families with cancer. Say: “I love you, Mum” Mother’s Day (Sunday 30 March) is just around the corner, and we are
giving people the chance to donate to the DCCF in a loved one’s name.
Whether you are showing your appreciation to the maternal figure in your life, or wish to give a gift in memory, all donations will go directly to help local families pay for items such as utility bills, transport to and from hospital treatment and much needed short breaks.
It’s easy to donate and you can also post a message to the loved one who has inspired your gift to us. Please visit justgiving.com/campaign/ mothersday2025-honouryourmum. Daredevils wanted
Our fundraisers will be descending 100m from the iconic Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth on Saturday 28 June.
The abseil starts at 10am, is open to people of all ages and doesn’t require any training or special skills.
You can do it with friends and family or alone, and you’ll be rewarded by stunning views across Portsmouth Harbour – as
well as a huge sense of accomplishment.
We are asking our abseilers to pay a deposit of £30 and raise a minimum of £150 in sponsorship. For more information and to secure your spot, please email hello@dccf.co.uk.
Join a thrilling Wing Walk
What could be more exhilarating than soaring above the countryside atop the wings of a biplane?
Dorset View’s daredevil Creative Director Louis Pulford has already expressed interest in wing walking for the DCCF. Will you join him?
Our wing walkers will be asked to pay a £100 deposit and raise a minimum of £750 in sponsorship. For more details, please email charitymanager@dccf.co.uk.
You don’t have to take part in a daring activity to help Dorset families with cancer.
You can donate, volunteer, fundraise, or even attend one of our fantastic coffee mornings or other fundraising events. For more details, visit dccf.co.uk.
March is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month and local people are being urged to take part in March for Men on Saturday 29 March at Bournemouth Pier Approach. It will not only raise funds for University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity, it is hoped it will encourage open conversations about prostate health.
Whether people are
walking 5k with friends, running 10k solo or engaging in any other physical activity, every step taken and every pound raised will support patients and families affected by prostate cancer.
Kevin Turner, consultant urological surgeon for University Hospitals Dorset’s Department of Urology, said: “Prostate cancer doesn’t just affect individuals diagnosed — it impacts entire families and communities. It is one of the most common cancers for men, and when found early, prostate cancer is more easily assessed and treated when necessary.
“The more we talk about prostate cancer, the more we can inform men and everyone about the disease. These conversations dispel myths and educate men and their families.”
This year, March for Men is sponsored by local businesses Spetisbury Construction and Oak Business Services. Sign up at uhdcharity.org/m4m.
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Melanie Woodall, an experienced dental professional at Wessex Denture Studio, is proud to announce that she has successfully completed her Diploma in Clinical Dental Technology from the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.
With this qualification, Melanie is now fully accredited to create and provide high-quality dentures directly to the public.
Founded by Phillip Laws, Wessex Denture Studio is a family-run business established 15 years ago in West Moors, Dorset, and has long been committed to delivering outstanding denture services.
Melanie, who has worked alongside Phillip for over 30 years, completed her apprenticeship in Dental Technology in 1993, and has continued to develop her skills under Phillip’s mentorship. Together, they have built a reputation for excellence,
offering personalised care to each patient.
Phillip said: “We are thrilled to see Melanie achieve this milestone.
“Having worked together for over three decades, it’s been a privilege to support her in her career. Her dedication to improving patients’ lives through high-quality dentures aligns perfectly with our values at Wessex Denture Studio.”
Wessex Denture Studio specialises in a range of denture services, offering a free, no-obligation consultation to ensure each patient receives tailored solutions for their needs. The studio works closely with local dentists to ensure comprehensive care and satisfaction for all patients in a welcoming, supportive environment. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please visit wessexdentures. co.uk or call 01202 861080.
‘Strictly Come Dancing’ stars Amy Dowden and Carlos Gu will perform their brand-new show, ‘REBORN’, at Bournemouth Pavilion in March
Below, the pair reveal what audiences can expect, and why the show means so much to them personally.
Why did you decide to call it REBORN?
Carlos: Because the theme of the show is about having a new life. From the beginning I had this title in my head, because the show is based on my story, as well as Amy’s. I moved to the UK from China and I changed my career from competitive dance work into the television world. When you make a big change like that, you’re navigating your new
life, meeting new people and you don’t know how it’s going to go. Because of my sexuality, moving to the UK has definitely helped me open up myself more, and it has encouraged me to be my true self and to accept who I am. And when I look at Amy, she’s the perfect example of the REBORN theme. She went through the worst period of her life, and she never gave up. She fought back.
Amy: I had my identity stripped away from me when I had my cancer treatment. I lost my hair, I gained weight, I wasn’t
able to dance and I didn’t know what my outcome was going to be. I’ve definitely become a new person, because I don’t think anybody is truly the same after they’ve had cancer. But you know what? I’ve become a better version of myself, a warrior version of Amy, so I definitely feel reborn and I look at life differently now. What routines and music are in the show?
Amy: It features every style going, from disco to commercial, Latin, the Argentine tango, flamenco, ballroom, Fosse... We’re covering all the bases. And with the songs there’s a wide range as well, from pop songs to Latin and Argentine tango tunes, and all those favourites that everybody knows and can sing along and dance to.
Carlos: I’m a huge Bob Fosse fan, I adore him, so there’s a Fosse-style surprise on the tour too. I’m not going to spoil the surprise, but let’s just say that I’m going to be doing some other type of performance instead of just dancing.
‘Amy Dowden & Carlos Gu: REBORN’ will be performed at 7.30pm at Bournemouth Pavilion on Wednesday 12 March. For tickets, visit amyandcarlostour.co.uk.
Details were correct at the time of going to print. Send information about your events to newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk.
5 March 10am–2.30pm Makers Market at Gather, Dolphin Centre, Poole.
5 March 2pm–4.30pm
Lytchett & Upton Floral Club demonstration at Lytchett Matravers Village Hall, BH16 6DF. 6, 13, 20 and 27 March 1.45pm Dorset Cricket Society meet at Hurn Bridge Sports Club, Christchurch, BH23 6DY.
6 March 7.30pm
Verwood and District Horticultural Society meets at Verwood Memorial Hall for a talk by Gillian Taylor on ‘My Greenhouse Year’. Visit verwoodhorticulturalsociety. co.uk or call Ollie on 07508 577114.
7 March 10am–3pm
Poole Leisure Painters meets at Lighthouse Poole.
8 March 10am–1pm and 9 March 2pm–4pm Manor Farm Hampreston open garden in BH21 7LX in aid of National Gardens Scheme.
8 March 2.30pm Concert at St Martin’s Church, West Moors in aid of Julia’s House. Tickets from the church, Brewer and Brewer estate agents, talksbychristopher.co.uk or email c.legrand@btinternet.com.
8 March 2.30pm and 7.30pm
Ferndown Phoenix Musical Theatre presents ‘Phoenix Favourites’ at The Barrington, Ferndown. Tickets from ticketsource.co.uk/ phoenix or call 01202 894858.
10 March 2.30pm
West Moors Horticultural Society meets at the Memorial Hall. Contact Sue Hamlett on 01202 871536.
10 March 7.30pm
Ferndown French Circle meets in King George Pavilion, Peter Grant Way, Ferndown, BH22 9EN.
Enquiries on 07754 481635.
12 March 6.30pm–9pm
Bournemouth Big Band, Swing and Jazz Club meet in Kinson Community Centre.
12 March 7.30pm
East Dorset Antiquarian Society meets at St Catherine’s Church Hall, Wimborne.
15 March 1.30pm–4pm
Verwood and District Horticultural Show at Verwood Memorial Hall.
16 March 4.30pm
Broadstone Music Series presents Ensemble Aurea in concert at St John’s Church, Broadstone. Book via broadstonemusicseries. info and TicketSource.
17 March 9.50am for 10am
Wimborne Minster WI presents a speaker from Chestnut Nursery to a meeting at St Catherine’s Church Hall, Lewens Lane. Call Jill Haywood on 01202 888194.
17 March 10.30am–11.30am
Reading Friends group meets at Ferndown Library.
18 March 8pm
Wimborne Civic Society meets at the Allendale Centre, Wimborne for a talk on Winchester Bishops.
19 March 7pm
Auction of promises at Wimborne Town Hall to benefit mayor’s charities.
19 March 7pm
The Fireside Theatre present ‘Trap for a Lonely Man’ at 3 Crescent Road, Verwood. Call 01202 813565 to book.
22 March 10am–5pm and
23 March 10am–4pm
Wimborne Railway Society’s golden jubilee exhibition at the Allendale Centre. Admission: adults £8, family £10.
22 March 2pm
Freedom of Wimborne Minster to be conferred on 280 (NATO) Signal Squadron in the Square.
23 March 11am
Guided walk around Wimborne town, starting from the square and lasting approximately one hour.
23 March 3pm
Ensemble Renard recital at Kimmeridge Hall, Bournemouth University, Fern Barrow, Poole, BH12 5BB.
25 March 11am–12.30pm
Spring themed Messy Church in the Wimborne Minster. Free but donations welcome. Contact claire@wimborneminster. org.uk for details.
25 March 6pm–8pm
Diverse Abilities Modern Calligraphy Workshop at Patch Bournemouth, 1st Floor Bobby's Bournemouth. Visit diverseabilities.org.uk/events.
25 March 7.30pm
West Parley Gardening Club meets at the MS Centre Dorset, Church Lane, West Parley, BH22 8TS.
27 March 6pm for 7pm start
Charity Quiz Night in support of the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation at The Barrington Centre, Ferndown.
28 March 10am–2.30pm Stitch4u club for embroidery and textile art meets at MS Centre, West Parley. Details at astitch4u.com.
29 March 12noon–4pm
Wimborne Gardening Club spring show at Allendale Centre.
29 March 1.30pm
West Moors Horticultural Society spring show at the Allendale Centre. Contact Sue Hamlett on 01202 871536.
29 March 7.30pm
Wimborne Choral Society presents Brahms German Requiem at Wimborne Minster church. Tickets from Square Records, via 07802 589662 or on the door.
By Gill Hayes
‘The Killing of Sister George’ may seem tame in this day and age, but in 1964 the play, written by Frank Marcus, was highly controversial. Followed by the film in 1968, directed by Robert Aldrich and starring Beryl Reid, it was the first mainstream depiction of a lesbian relationship and consequently received an X rating.
The story revolves around a radio soap opera actress, June Buckridge (nicknamed Sister George after her role in the show) whose life begins to unravel as she worries whether her character will be written out of the series. While Sister George is kindly and beloved in the soap opera, June is the opposite: a foul-mouthed, outrageous, controlling woman, who lives with the long-suffering Alice ‘Childie’ McNaught.
The BLT production was expertly directed by Rachael de Courcy Beamish,
with an all-female cast. Full of wit and humour, interwoven with angst and venom, the production left the audience questioning the complexities and frailties of life and love not only in the 1960s but in today’s society.
The cast are to be praised for their performances demonstrating heightened emotions and comic timing which had the audience laughing out loud.
Belinda Harward gave an outstanding performance as the complex, deeply troubled central character. She conveyed the anger and vitriol of the embittered Sister George, as well as her vulnerable, sarcastic side. Belinda held the play together expertly.
The cast are all to be commended but particularly Kim Fletcher, who played Mrs Mercy Croft. She had me crying with laughter until her true, malevolent intentions were revealed at the end of
the performance.
The off-stage sound effects and theme tune were a subtle nod to the radio play at the heart of the story.
Bournemouth Little Theatre’s next production will be ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ from 8–12 April.
By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk
This company had a huge challenge on their hands when they decided to stage this play based on the bestselling novel by Paula Hawkins. For a start, they had to create the illusion of a train travelling on a track – and there were 16 different scenes.
However, not only did they nail this, all seven members of the cast put in faultless performances.
And what a powerful opening! Kelly-Anne Singleton’s portrayal of the alcoholic Rachel Watson was stunning from the first words she uttered as she staggered across the stage.
Following her marriage breakup and the loss of her job, she took a train to London each day to observe from the window a couple she imagined had a perfect life.
And just when I thought I’d identified a great performer, along comes another one – and then another, until I found myself giving them all five stars on my programme.
Sean Beaumont (as Rachel’s ex, Tom) put so much into this multi-faceted character, teaming well with the supposedly acquiescent wife Anna (Harriet Johns).
Clare l’Anson exuded so much raw emotion as Megan, the supposedly perfect wife, whilst Simon Langford showed passion and at times menace as her husband Scott.
Peter Bennett got under the skin of the police officer DI Gaskill, with Steve Moore adding calm as Kamal Abdic, Megan’s therapist.
Val Holland, Sarah Peacock, Sally Hadlington and the other cast members came on intermittently to depict the train
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Bring along your families and friends to Meyrick Park, Bournemouth with a picnic and a bottle of bubbly for a summer evening under the stars, accompanied by your local world-class orchestra.
Enjoy Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra performing the best symphonic music in the world including ‘The Sorcerer’s Apprentice’, excerpts from ‘Enigma Variations’, famous film scores from John Williams and more at the Classical Extravaganza on Friday 8 August.
Saturday 9 August will celebrate the ‘80s with a symphonic party of smash hits including the biggest hits of the decade by Madonna, Toto, David Bowie, George Michael and many more. All this, plus fireworks and pyrotechnics on both nights.
To book tickets, visit bsolive.com or call 01202 669925.
travellers on an innovative piece of scenery.
Five-star ratings also have to go to director Deanna Langford and all the crew for this stellar production.
I hadn’t been to a Castle Players production for many years, and I shall certainly want to go again. I am therefore making a note in my diary that, from 22 to 24 May, they will be producing ‘Journeys’, a night of music and readings transporting the audience to the beginning of some well-known musicals.
If you’re a fan of programmes like ‘Who Do You Think You Are?’ or have always wanted to chart your family tree, then save Saturday 29 March in your diary, as the South West Really Useful Family History Show will be held in Bournemouth.
This free event is being organised by registered charity the Dorset Family History Society, in partnership with Devon Family History
Society and the Family History Federation. The show promises to provide attendees with the tools to trace their own family history.
During the day, there will be exhibitors selling goods and services to help budding historians, speakers giving talks on genealogy, and the chance to meet and connect with local history societies.
Attendees will also be
able to meet with experts who can help with dating old family photographs, decipher old wills and documents, provide guidance on family history research, and advise on how to use your DNA to further your research.
The South West Really Useful Family History Show will
be held at Kinson Community Centre (Pelhams Park), Millhams Road, Bournemouth, BH10 7LH on Saturday 29 March 2025 from 10am until 4pm. There will be free parking at the event, as well as refreshments and a raffle. Visit dorsetfhs.org. uk for more information.
Wimborne Railway Society is celebrating its Golden Jubilee this year with an exhibition to be held at the Allendale Centre on Saturday 22 March from 10am–5pm and Sunday 23 March from 10am–4pm.
The society will exhibit several model layouts, including its scale working model of the town’s former railway station.
After passenger trains stopped running to Wimborne, due to the cuts by Dr Richard Beeching, a group of railway enthusiasts led by a local woman, Vera Hutchings, decided to get together to help preserve the heritage of their local railway.
In 1975, Wimborne Railway Society was founded as a voluntary organisation. Vera arranged the first meetings at the RAF Association hut in the town. When the club moved to a room at the Griffin Hotel which was then opposite Wimborne Station, they made a start on building a ‘OO’ gauge model layout of the station before the last real trains stopped running in 1977. In June 1979, the first WRS exhibition was held, at Colehill. At the same time, the society was preparing to leave the Griffin, which was to be demolished.
The move to their current premises in the church hall in Chapel Lane was made in August 1979, and the layouts rebuilt to suit the new arrangements. They had to be made portable, to be replaced in a storeroom after each meeting.
A Golden Jubilee Book recording the club’s activities over 50 years is being produced.
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The Museum of East Dorset is lining up a host of Easter activities for all the family to enjoy. The Easter bunny is hopping over to the awardwinning museum in Wimborne to hide lots of colourful Easter eggs in all different sizes.
Find the eggs throughout the museum and beautiful gardens and you could win yourself a great prize. There are also free Easter crafts to try your hand at, a family trail to follow, plus dressing up fun with Easter bonnets.
All these activities are included free with the normal entrance price which also entitles you to a year’s annual pass to the museum so you can return anytime over 12 months. To find out more, visit museumofeastdorset.co.uk.
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The award-winning, family-owned Marsham Court Hotel has been providing exceptional service and hospitality for over 37 years.
Situated on Bournemouth’s East Cliff, and just a two-minute walk from the town centre and beaches, many of its rooms and function spaces enjoy stunning sea views over the bay from Hengistbury Head to Old Harry Rocks.
Open daily for non-residents, the hotel’s Retreat Bar & Eatery serves a variety of delicious homemade dishes throughout the day –they even have a Doggy Menu.
The event spaces cater for two to 280 guests, so whatever the occasion, the team would love to show you around.
Contact the team on 01202 552111 or visit marshamcourthotel.co.uk.
Report and photos By Gill Hayes
For the first time in nearly 380 years, visitors can ascend the King’s Tower at Corfe Castle for a small fee. The King’s View can be accessed from newly installed scaffolding stairs
within the Keep, revealing spectacular, panoramic views of the surrounding area and historical features of the royal living quarters.
The Keep was built around 1107 for King Henry I. At 23m tall, atop a 55m mound, it dominated the surrounding landscape. The Appearance Door was a way for kings to be seen by the public (rather like the balcony at Buckingham Palace). It showcases some of the most elaborate architectural features found in the Keep today.
Corfe Castle (including the Keep) was substantially destroyed by Parliamentarian soldiers at the end of the Civil War in 1646.
This unique experience is possible due to a £2m
conservation project at the castle which began in 2023.
For more information, go to nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ dorset/corfe-castle.
By Luke Graham L-R:
The amateur dramatic society Colehill Music and Drama (Co.MaD) have been performing pantomimes every year since 1999 except for 2021 due to the pandemic. This pedigree was on full display in February during their run of an original panto, ‘Tales from the Woods’.
Set in a village inhabited by several fairytale and nursery rhyme characters such as Hansel, Gretel, Bo Peep and Goldilocks, this pantomime was delightful. There was plenty of laughter and fun audience interaction, though I wasn’t expecting to get squirted by a water gun during a game of Simon Says.
John Bounds was particularly entertaining as the Dame, with his colourful wig getting bigger and bigger with each scene. KD Johnson was a hoot as the evil Baron Wolfheart.
The four-year-old Junior Editor who came with me gave the show a ringing endorsement, rating it as “really fun” and saying: “It was so good, I didn’t want it to end.”
Bravo to the whole cast and crew, especially Pam Mizon for her direction and script.
Introducing a 50mph speed limit on the B3082 Blandford Road near Badbury Rings has been successful in persuading motorists not to exceed the limit.
The new speed limit came into effect in July 2023, when it was reduced from 60mph. This aimed to improve safety, including at three junctions which give access to Shapwick, Sturminster Marshall and Badbury Rings.
Since the introduction, data collected by Dorset Council shows a significant reduction in those measured exceeding the speed limit, based on an average 7,000 vehicles a day using the road.
Before the speed limit was reduced, 13.07 per cent
of users (around 914 vehicles each day) measured were travelling over 60mph.
Since the speed reduction was implemented, the percentage travelling over 60mph reduced to 3.86 per cent (272 vehicles).
Similarly, those measured travelling at speeds above 70mph reduced from 1.51 per cent (106) to 0.62 per cent (just 43 vehicles).
Cllr Jon Andrews, Cabinet member for Place Services, Dorset Council, said: “This road is important for commuters from Blandford to Wimborne and beyond, so I would like to add a big thank you to everyone who is helping to make journeys safer and more pleasant for all.”
Dorset Council is looking for more sites for electric charging points. The authority has secured government funding to provide extra facilities across the county, to make sure every resident has access to public charging for electric vehicles. These chargers will be particularly important for homes and flats that don’t have off-street parking or dedicated spots to charge vehicles.
West Moors, Martinstown, Wool, Maiden Newton and Cerne Abbas are just some of the towns and villages that have already benefitted from the scheme.
Charge points can be installed on or near the highway, at community spaces like village halls, or on private
land such as pub car parks.
Cllr Nick Ireland, leader of Dorset Council and Cabinet member for Climate, said: “Whether you already drive an electric vehicle, plan to get one in the next few years, or never intend on getting one, electric vehicles are becoming more and more common. And it’s crucial that we help our communities and county prepare.
“We are committed to helping build a greener, more sustainable future for our county, and an improved charging network will be key to this.”
New locations for public charge points can be suggested on the Dorset Council website or by emailing chargingahead@ dorsetcouncil.gov.uk.
Road police conducted a two-day campaign in January focusing on commercial vehicle safety and found a number of vehicles had not been loaded securely.
If a larger vehicle is carrying a load that is not secured or maintained correctly, this can lead to items falling onto roads causing a hazard that could result in a serious or fatal road traffic collision.
In 2024, Dorset Police received over 1,000 emergency calls relating to
items falling from moving vehicles onto major roads.
On Tuesday 28 and Wednesday 29 January, officers carried out an operation near to the Ashley Heath interchange to crackdown on unsafely loaded vehicles.
During the two days, 32 drivers were issued with a traffic offence report for failing to load their vehicle securely. Five of these offences posed an imminent, serious danger to other road users.
A total of 13 vehicles were
given a prohibition notice that prevented them from carrying on their journeys until action was taken due to being dangerously unsafe. One vehicle was prohibited for breaching the drivers’ hours limits and was prevented from being driven for 25 hours.
Other offences were detected, including drivers not having their licence or insurance, and a driver was arrested on suspicion of drug driving.
Police Constable Chris Brolan, of the Roads Policing Team, said: “Nationally, we have sadly seen the devastating consequences that can come after items had fallen from commercial vehicles and seriously harmed innocent road users.
“This has driven our focus
and is why we have been out and about educating commercial vehicle drivers on how to keep their vehicles safe and protect the public.”
Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset David Sidwick said: “To increase road safety we must focus not only on enforcement, but also education. This joint operation demonstrates the importance of taking action when offences are identified, while reminding drivers of their obligation to check loads are securely stored, vehicles do not exceed the legal weight limit and all components such as tyres and light bulbs are in good order.”
If you have concerns about a road user, report them by visiting dorset. police.uk or by calling 101.
By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk
You might try to put it off, but there is something rather satisfying about spring cleaning.
The season is a time of fresh beginnings, so shake off those winter blues to embrace the warmer months with a spotless home.
Let’s start with the kitchen.
As well as cleaning the oven (not anyone’s favourite job), there is the microwave, washing machine and dishwasher to be tackled.
Emptying the cupboards to clean the shelves can be very satisfying as it is the chance to get rid of items you no longer use and to discover expired food items and spices that never see the light of day.
As well as cleaning the fridge, it could be the time
to defrost the freezer too. To do this, turn off the freezer, remove any food and store it in the fridge, a freezer bag or a cooler. Place towels on the floor and bottom of the freezer to soak up any water, as well as baking trays to catch any drips. Then leave the ice to melt (you could speed up this process by using a hair dryer, scraping off chunks of ice with a spatula, or placing bowls of hot water at the base of the freezer). Once defrosted, you can remove and wash the drawers and shelves and clean the inside of the freezer. After the freezer is clean and dry, replace the shelves and drawers and turn it back on. Once it has reached the correct temperature, return the food to the freezer.
When tackling the bedroom, you could vacuum the mattress before turning your attention to your wardrobe. Why not take everything out and assess whether some garments –which haven’t been worn in the past year – should find a new home in a charity shop.
There’s a lot to do in the bathroom. Clean showerheads, taps and the toilet. Wipe down mirrors and clean shower screens with a glass cleaner. And what about those toiletries
and cosmetics that have just been gathering dust? It might be the time to jettison them.
In the sitting room, we can all be guilty of vacuuming around furniture, so this is the time to move heavy items and to tackle the dust beneath them.
We use remote controls every day, but often they are missed in the weekly cleaning routine, so sanitising them is a priority, as is cleaning door handles and light switches. Many households employ window cleaners, but they usually only do the outside, so tackling the inside should be one of your spring-cleaning jobs. The people at Hoover have six spring cleaning tips:
• Create a plan, and tick items off as you go
• Begin by de-cluttering
• Start from the top down in each room
• Clean on a sunny day with the windows open
• Set time limits – and reward yourself with a cup of coffee or an outdoor break
• Listen to upbeat, lively music to motivate you
• And finally pat yourself on the back. Job done – for another year.
By Plants Direct
As we move from the cold days of winter through to spring, our gardens, plots and pots burst into life. The vibrant colours of spring flowering bulbs herald the start of a new garden year.
There are still plenty of winter tasks to complete, such as planting bare root trees or fruit and native hedging. Hawthorn, beech, hazel, and many more can be planted as hedges or beds – ideal for encouraging birds, bees and insects.
Prepare all flower plots, herbaceous beds and vegetable patches by adding compost and fertiliser, especially to new borders and beds.
Sow seed potatoes, onion sets, peas and beans now for early cropping, while fruit trees and bushes may need a final prune: remove dead or damaged wood, then stake and tie for the growing season.
Lawns probably look dismal after the long, cold, wet and very dull winter, so now is the time to remove as much moss, weed and debris as possible. Spike and rake to aerate, then feed and weed for the growing season. Organic feeds and dressings can help to green your lawns and control moss and weeds.
When seeding new lawns, take care to prepare fully beforehand. Overseeding bare patches and thin grass using a seed compost mixture tends to be more successful.
Green houses, cold frames, raised beds and pots can be cleaned and disinfected to kill overwintering diseases and pests. Dig over all the soil to help aeration and drainage. Add fresh compost to all planting beds, pots and borders for best results.
A visit to the local garden centre or nursery now is worthwhile to see all the new varieties of greenery that could enhance your garden. They also stock a full range of pots and planters, compost, tools and sundries. More importantly, they have staff with knowledge and advice on creating your perfect garden for the year ahead.
Your council tax bill will be going up from April. Both Dorset and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Councils have proposed increasing the tax by the maximum amount allowed of just under five per cent (made up of 2.99 per cent for the basic council tax and two per cent for the social care precept).
In addition, other service providers have asked for increases: Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Authority agreed to increase its share of council tax by 5.75 per cent, equivalent to £5 a year for the average home, while Dorset Police are requiring residents to pay an extra £14 a year, or £1.17 a month, if they live in a band D property.
Also, from 1 April, both Dorset and BCP Councils will charge the owners of
second homes a 100 per cent premium on their additional property, meaning their council tax bill will double.
Council tax is essential to pay for services including firefighting, policing, and social care for the elderly and vulnerable. But some people may be able to reduce their council tax bill.
If you live alone, or only live with people who are aged under 18 or are full-time students, you are entitled to a 25 per cent discount.
You can also get this discount if the other adults in your home are live-in carers or someone who is ‘severely mentally impaired’ (SMI).
Households made up of just students or SMI adults do not
have to pay any council tax. If you are on a low income or receive benefits like pension credit, you may also be entitled to a council tax reduction. Visit gov.uk/apply-for-counciltax-discount for more details.
Challenge your tax band
The amount of council tax you pay depends on which council tax band your property is in, which is based on its value. The bands range from A to H, so if your home is in the wrong tax band, you may be paying too much council tax. It is possible to challenge your tax band by submitting an appeal to the government, but you will need evidence: for instance, you need to find nearby properties similar to yours that are in lower tax bands.
Visit moneysavingexpert.com/reclaim/ council-tax-bands-change/ for a full guide on how to check and challenge your band.
Finally, if you, or someone who lives with you, needs an extra room in your house due to a disability, your council tax band could be reduced by one band, making your tax bill cheaper. Contact your local council to claim this discount. See Correspondence on p45
Children will be able to enjoy splashing about in paddling pools in the BCP Council area this summer, thanks to the community joining forces with the council.
Redhill paddling pool will welcome families once more, after the council agreed to allocate funding from this year’s budget which, together with significant staff resource, will help to keep the facility open for 2025, whilst a more sustainable funding option is sought.
Hamworthy Park paddling pool will be part-funded by BCP Council, with a subsidy from The Friends of Hamworthy Park, and from the park’s café concession.
The Quomps Splashpark at Christchurch Quay, which transferred in 2024 to Christchurch Town Council, is also set to reopen.
Also getting ready to make a splash this summer is Littledown Park paddling pool, which is managed and operated by registered charity BH Live in partnership with BCP Council.
Cllr Millie Earl, leader of the council, said: “This is joint working between the council and the BCP community at its very best, and we would like to see much more of this type of collaboration in the future. This is why we are proposing a community governance review — to give local communities more of a say in what matters to them.”
To express your opinion or idea about the community send your letters to letters@dorsetview.co.uk
A reader who lives in Tooting, London and owns property in Blandford Forum has written to complain about Dorset Council’s second home premium:
Second home council tax
I have recently received notification that from April, my council tax will rise to £700 a month.
I am a 69-year-old, retired single man, and this sum is beyond my means. It will have the devastating effect of forcing me to sell the home I have cherished for 28 years.
Though it is a second home, for half my life I have faithfully contributed to North Dorset Council services and to the Dorset economy. I love the county and have been a proud and responsible resident. I am now being forced to sell my home and leave. To be thus penalised at this time of life I believe to be deeply unfair.
Could I ask your readers if they feel the sum of £700 a month could in any way be described as reasonable and equitable? Or do you feel as I must, that it is an extortionate, punitive, and undeserved penalty?
I am, in short, devastated by this policy, and distraught that in my 70th year I have to lose my home, and move out of Dorset.
Terry Johnson, Tooting, London
When asked about the rise in Council Tax, the second home premium and Johnson’s situation, Dorset Council provided this response:
Dorset Council is proposing to increase council tax by just under 3 per cent and the adult social care precept by just under 2 per cent, the maximum allowed. This increase equates to £1.91 extra per week for a Band D property.
As the council with the highest population of older people per capita, we also have extremely high demands for our social care services, which amounts to almost three quarters of our entire budget.
The new funding arrangements set out by government in the Local Government Funding Settlements, received in late December, favour areas of the country with a lower ability to raise revenue via council tax, and penalise areas with a higher tax base. Therefore, we have no option but to increase council tax by the maximum allowed to support those increasing number of vulnerable people who need our services.
The increase in premiums for second homes and empty properties will go some way to supporting income for the council, but we rely heavily on the revenue generated by council tax and retained business rates in order to raise the vital funds needed to deliver services to the residents of Dorset.
However, we do not want to put even more of a financial burden on our residents so will not be looking to increase council tax levels above government-set limits for the five year duration of this administration.
Cllr Simon Clifford, Dorset Council Cabinet member for Finance and Capital Strategy
What do you think of the second home premium and the rise in council tax? Write in to let us know.
Report by Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk
There can’t be many people in Wimborne who have a prehistoric monster in their house. Or any at all for that matter!
However, not only is there a 16-foot dinosaur in the dining room of the home of Anthony and Christine Oliver, but there are also various other creatures including some 100 sheep, badgers, hedgehogs, a fox, a squirrel, a deer, and mice – made out of a variety of materials.
All these creations, including a representation of Corfe Castle and models depicting Lyme Regis palaeontologist Mary Anning and Wimborne smuggler Isaac Gulliver, will be on view to the public at the Wimborne Minster Flower Festival which takes place in the church from Friday 26 to Monday 29 September.
And in the lead up to the festival, volunteers are working hard to make ‘The Delights of Dorset’ a ground-breaking success, with up to 10 people taking part in twice-a-week workshops.
“I woke up one morning before Christmas with the whole vision,” said Christine Oliver, who is working on her eighth such festival. Her creative skill was honed by her years working as a window dresser.
“My first one in 1997 had the theme of ‘500 Years of Education at Queen Elizabeth’s School.”
The Flower Festival dates back to the 1960s and is usually held every five years, but there have been exceptions.
In 2000, Christine organised one to mark the millennium and in 2002 to mark the Golden Jubilee of HM Queen Elizabeth II. In 2005, there was another festival to mark the founding of the Minster by St Cuthburga.
A festival was scheduled to take place in 2020, but lockdown forced it to be rescheduled to 2022.
“We thought it was a good idea to get it back on schedule. That’s why we chose this year,” said Anthony.
There have been five floral carpets down the central aisle in previous years, but this year the scheme is very different.
The flowers cost the festival around £3,000 so it is hoped sponsors will come forward. If you would like to contribute to what will be a beautiful celebration of the best of Dorset, contact Christine on 01202 888703.
In the meantime, a couple of fundraising initiatives are being planned, with a coffee morning in Church
House on Easter Saturday 19 April and an afternoon tea later in the year in Anthony and Christine’s garden.
A total of 11 flower clubs across Dorset will be participating in the festival with some producing designs that cover an area of eight foot by five foot, and all will depict some aspect or attraction in the county.
The dinosaur which is called Demelza and her baby, Dino, will be placed in a sandpit in the children’s corner of the church – but all the creatures will be stored in the Oliver house until the festival,
which attracts 1,000 people a day.
The festival will also include a depiction of Gold Hill in Shaftesbury, and the crib which is in place over the Christmas period in the church will be transformed into a cottage garden. In addition, the High Altar will have a tribute to wine makers of Dorset. The Minster oversees six village churches and each one will have a display in the crypt depicting their history.
Attractions will also include a model railway.
“The festival will show how we can all work together,” said Christine.
