Viewpoint January 2026

Newt on the road © Louis Pulford

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Mid January 2026 Volume 50, Issue 3

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VIEWPOINT

Volume 50 • Issue 3 • January 2026

Dear Readers!

‘When did you last look at the Highway Code?’ was a question that I felt embarrassed to answer.

I would like to have replied that I scan it periodically to make sure I am up to date and that it is my late-night reading, but sadly the answer was that I hadn’t referred to it since I was preparing to take my driving test many years ago.

Oops.

Like so many people, I have been finding myself apprehensive about driving on our increasingly busy roads. I do use public transport where possible to help to alleviate congestion on our roads, but the ability and confidence to drive is still very important to me.

But am I still a competent driver? I decided I should find out.

I booked a Mature Driver Review with IAM RoadSmart and was told I would meet an assessor in a mutually convenient location. The review is a 60-minute drive in your own car on a route that you are familiar with.

I was told I could invite a friend or family member to support me but decided against that. It was going to be stressful enough being appraised by one person, let alone a backseat driver!

I had to provide my driving licence, tax, MOT and insurance cover.

I was told the assessor would give me some initial feedback and would write a short report.

I was nervous, as I felt I was taking my driving test all over again.

However, I was soon put at ease, and the assessor didn’t seem to be making many notes.

At the end of the hour, I was passed as competent, and it has given me more confidence.

Everyone at Viewpoint Magazine wishes all our readers and advertisers a very happy New Year — and drive safely.

Marilyn Barber News editor

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

VIEWPOINT

Ben Pulford managing director ben@dorsetview.co.uk Louis Pulford creative director louis@pulfordpublicity.co.uk Janine Pulford editor-at-large janine@dorsetview.co.uk Nick Pulford company secretary accounts@pulfordpublicity.co.uk

NEWS DESK

01202 233441 Luke Graham editor luke@dorsetview.co.uk Marilyn Barber news editor newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk Rebecca Smith pre-press administrator rebecca@dorsetview.co.uk

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01202 816140 Mark Beechey account manager DD 01202 941465 mark@dorsetview.co.uk Simon Thornton account manager DD 01202 941470 simon@dorsetview.co.uk Calls may be recorded for training and quality purposes.

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Dexter Elliott graphic designer designstudio@pulfordpublicity.co.uk

LOGISTICS Mike Talbot

Common firecrest spotted in Charminster © Simon Craft

How to contact us

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Email: news@dorsetview.co.uk Web: www.dorsetview.co.uk Pulford Publicity, Dana House, Spinneys Lane, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9BZ /dorsetview.news @Dorset_View @dorset_view @dorset.view

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27 JANUARY 2026

VIEWPOINT is independently published and distributed free to homes and businesses in selected areas of Dorset and Hampshire. Views or opinions expressed in VIEWPOINT are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement deemed to be unsuitable for publication. Information about a service does not imply recommendation. All purchases made through this publication are done so entirely at your own risk.

The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with VIEWPOINT and should not be reproduced without prior written permission from the publisher. The company’s privacy policy can be read at www.dorsetview.co.uk

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Pulford Publicity donates £650 to Dorset Cancer Care Foundation Taking place between 1–24 December, Christchurch Living Advent Calendar (CLAC) attracted several sponsors for the 24 events that took place in the town in the run-up to Christmas, raising money for a different charity each night.

On 14 December, Pulford Publicity sponsored the evening to the tune of £650. Mad4Dance performed in Bargates, and the charity being supported was Dorset Cancer Care Foundation.

Ben Pulford, managing director of Pulford Publicity (the publisher of this magazine), said: “Dorset Cancer Care Foundation was our charity of the year for 2025, so this was a perfect opportunity for our company to get involved and make a donation to round off our year of support.

Ben Pulford, left, presents the cheque to Emily Griffiths from Dorset Cancer Care Foundation © CatchBox

“Mad4Dance put on a great show, and I would like to thank them for hosting the evening.”

After the performance, Ben presented a cheque for £650 to Emily Griffiths, charity manager of Dorset Cancer Care Foundation. She praised Pulford Publicity, calling their support “amazing”, not only for their sponsorship, but also for producing the free programme which promoted the CLAC. Now in its fifth year, the CLAC has raised over £100,000 for local causes, with around £20,000 raised each year.

Subscribe to our newsletter Here at Viewpoint Magazine, we’re always thinking of new ways to get the best local news to you. With that in mind, we have launched a brand-new digital newsletter.

Subscribers will receive a regular email containing links to the top news stories from Dorset and Hampshire, an online version of the magazine, and the latest videos from our YouTube channel. It’s a quickfire round-up of our best content, delivered directly to your inbox.

To sign up and help support independent, local journalism, simply visit the website dorsetview.co.uk, scroll down to the white Subscribe box, and share your email address.

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Council disappointed with financial settlement Dorset Council says it doesn’t feel that December’s three-year provisional Local Government financial settlement is adequate Cllr Simon Clifford, Cabinet Portfolio member for Finance and Capital Strategy, said the provisional settlement was another disappointment.

“On paper, it looks like we got an extra £25.9m in funding — but in reality, £24.1m of that is extra Council Tax,” he said.

“We asked for fairer funding for a rural county with an ageing population needing social care support. We need investment to improve transport and to boost schools. We hoped to have had

good news that would give Dorset residents better services and more help to support vulnerable people.

“Sadly, we have been let down — again. The government has even removed the extra funding we were hoping for to recognise that it is more expensive to provide services in a very rural county.

“The government expects us to increase Council Tax by 4.99 per cent each year. We essentially no longer have any choice in this.”

The children of West Moors hope you had a very Merry Christmas.

West Moors Town Council received so many entries to its annual Christmas card competition that it was able to create a festive window display at its office using the drawings. The winner of the design competition was 10-year-old Ellie Mae Vickers from West Moors Middle School.

Photo © West Moors Town Council.

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Need a trim? Free haircut service expands to Ferndown

Georgia Chappels started Community Haircuts last year

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VIEWPOINT January 2026

A kind-hearted hairdresser from Hampshire is offering free treatments to members of the community facing financial crisis.

Georgia Chappels started Community Haircuts in September 2025 after moving to Ringwood.

Supported by Ringwood Town Council, the free service is available every Monday and one Saturday a month from 1.30pm to 3.30pm in The Oak Room at Carvers Clubhouse.

And now the service has expanded to Ferndown. From January, it is available every third Monday of the month from 1.30pm to 3.30pm in The Beacon Room at St Mary’s Church on Church Road. Attendees can get a free tea or coffee from the church café.

Community Haircuts accepts referrals from The Job Centre, Citizens Advice and local food banks and charities, but drop-in appointments are also available.

“The project is growing and,

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after fantastic media support, other hairdressers have reached out to offer their time to volunteer,” said Chappels.

“Since starting the project, I have discovered what a difference selfcare and a haircut offers to those that need it. It’s been hugely welcomed and the service is being used.”

Thanks to sponsorship from Davines, a major hair care brand, Chappels is keen to continue expanding the project into new communities such as Verwood and Fordingbridge, but needs an appropriate venue.

“What we need is a place to work from,” explained Chappels.

“This would ideally be gifted for a couple of hours once a month.

“It will be amazing to help more individuals and families in financial crisis.”

To contact Chappels about using the service or to offer a venue, visit the Community Haircuts Facebook page or call 07510 602226.

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Katy before and after her weight loss

Katy’s Slimming World journey When Katy Godbeer walked into the Verwood Tuesday 7.30am Slimming World group in January 2024, she was carrying more than extra weight. She had previously lost weight in 2013 and 2014 through running, but a broken leg, the impact of Covid, and the grief of traumatic family losses gradually derailed her progress.

Exercise stopped, food became a comfort, and the weight returned faster than she expected.

The turning point came when holiday photos revealed she was at her heaviest ever, and even walking uphill felt like a struggle — far from how she felt when she ran a marathon.

Encouraged by her friend Sarah, Katy joined the Slimming World group run by consultant Debbie Brett, convinced it wouldn’t be for her. She couldn’t have been more wrong.

Through food optimising and the support of the group, Katy has lost an incredible six stone and 6.5lbs; she has maintained her dream target for nine months. She loves the flexibility of the plan and the group’s sense of community.

Now back exercising and even launching a running club, Katy is inspiring others. Her journey proves that with support, confidence and commitment, lasting change is possible.

To find your local group, visit slimmingworld.co.uk.

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NEWS IN BRIEF Book club joy for care home New homes

A proposal for change of use of the building at 72–74 Southampton Road, Ringwood to three residential properties — subject to a unilateral undertaking — has been granted by New Forest District Council.

Join choral society

Residents of Fairlawn Care Home in Ferndown have joined Parley First School pupils for a ‘book club’.

The children pick a book and read aloud to the visitors from the Care South home, who listen and help them with words they don’t know.

Deputy Headteacher Julia Martin said: “The relationship with Fairlawn care home is quite new, and when staff asked residents what they wanted to do, some said they’d love to do a monthly book club.

“The residents also tell them stories about their lives, and everyone gets a lot out of it.

“Immersing the children in literature from an early age really benefits them through their lives.”

Books read by the children include ‘Mr Men: The Night Before Christmas’ by Roger Hargreaves, ‘Funnybones’ by Janet and Allan Ahlberg, and ‘Love You More’ by Hanna Greene.

Tina Vincent, home manager, said: “It is wonderful to see our residents’ faces light up as the children read some of their favourite books to them.

“It reminds them of time spent with their own families in years gone by and gives them the chance to share the joy of story time with younger readers.”

The Verwood Choral Society’s Christmas concert held on 6 December raised £750 for Helpful Hounds, a local charity helping to change the lives of young people by training assistance dogs. If you are interested in meeting new people and helping raise some money for good causes, why not join this choir? It is open to everyone of all ages (the youngest is 17) and there are no auditions. For further information, contact Ann Mayo at annsmayo@yahoo.co.uk.

Seaside Scramble

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance had to postpone its Seaside Scramble last September because ongoing site works affected the planned route.

However, the 5k obstacle course has been rescheduled for Saturday 9 May. Sign up at register.enthuse.com/ps/event/SeasideScramble.

They predict a riot

Indie rock band Kaiser Chiefs are set to make their Poole debut when they headline the Poole Harbour Festival for its 10th anniversary on Friday 31 July, Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 August at Baiter Park, Poole, BH15 1UY. Find out more and book tickets at pooleharbourfestival.com.

Snowdrop weekend

Come and see a display of snowdrops growing naturally in the Norman churchyard of St George’s Church, Damerham, SP6 3HU on 14 and 15 February. Doors open from 10am to 4.30pm. Homemade refreshments served from 10.30am to 3.30pm, as well as stalls selling local produce, books, and more. Free entry.

Boost for community centre

The Allendale Centre in Wimborne has received a grant of £5,500 from the Digby Charity. The funds will be used to help to buy a new Commercial Induction Range Cooker, which is modern, safe, and easy to use. The new cooker will also be much more accessible for team members who have learning disabilities, allowing them to contribute more safely and confidently in the kitchen. For more details of the Digby Charity, which provides grants to organisations in Colehill and Wimborne, email: robertpearce422@gmail.com.

Safety measures at Barton on Sea

New Forest District Council (NFDC) has implemented safety measures and closures to protect residents, visitors, and staff, following a cliff fall at Barton on Sea on Sunday 28 December. The council has closed a section of the cliff top path east of Marine Drive 3 car park in Barton on Sea, to the path to Barton Common. NFDC will continue to monitor the situation and is urging people to follow any safety measures when visiting the coast.

Information about how New Forest District Council manages and protects the coastline is available at https://newforest.gov.uk/article/1411/NewForest-coast.

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Parish becomes a town With the aim of strengthening protection to its Green Belt, Colehill Parish Council resolved at its full council meeting on 9 December to become Colehill Town Council.

A public survey conducted in November found that 97.5 per cent of respondents supported the name change.

Colehill has around 7,500 residents and is currently the 16th largest settlement in Dorset, larger than nearby towns including West Moors, Wareham and Sturminster Newton.

The town council is concerned that housing proposed in Dorset’s draft Local Plan would increase the population to around 13,400 and it would become larger than Wimborne Minster, Corfe Mullen and Blandford Forum.

Until recently, villages and towns had the same level of protection, but the government amended the planning rules earlier in 2025 and there is now increased protection if a Green Belt site forms a substantial part of a gap between two towns and development would result in the loss of visual separation between them.

This protection doesn’t apply to villages.

The local authority said there is no guarantee that it can reduce the level of proposed development, but the transition to a town council means it will be better placed to seek to protect and enhance the area and respond to any future challenges.

Although a town council can use the term mayor for the leader of the council, the authority has decided not to do this.

More than 80 villagers from Holt celebrated Christmas on Sunday 7 December with a social event to help bring the community together.

They enjoyed children’s festive activities, singing from the Dene House Singers, and a visit from Father Christmas and his elves.

The event was organised by the Village and Parish Halls, which are celebrating 140 years of service between them to the Parish of Holt.

Pictured are Natalie and Lauren, the Dene House Singers. Photo © Bruce Grant-Braham.

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Meet Meesons & Spurlings’ family law expert -Advertisement feature-

Outi Kallunki-Stevens is a family law solicitor providing clear, practical advice to individuals and families navigating relationship breakdowns.

She is committed to making the law work for families, guiding clients through difficult situations with compassion and understanding.

Outi advises across all areas of family law, including cohabitation disputes concerning property ownership, cohabitation agreements, divorce and matrimonial finances, child arrangements, domestic abuse matters, and pre- and post-marital advice.

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Clients value Outi’s ability to progress matters efficiently, her clear and prompt communication, and the reassurance she provides during challenging times. Many have described her advice as bringing clarity and relief to situations that once felt overwhelming.

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Santa’s visit to Verwood

By Louisa Hiscock, Verwood Rotary Club Club members were delighted to join in the fun at Verwood’s Christmas Lights Switch On at the end of November.

We were pleased to help Santa set up his grotto in the Memorial Hall and meet as many children as he could.

It was lovely to see how

excited all the children were to meet Santa and be able to tell him what was on their Christmas lists. As a result, he was kept very busy all evening.

The generous donations from families on the night raised just over £370 for Rotary charities.

Club members would

also like to thank the local community for all their support in 2025, and we look forward to getting involved as much as ever in 2026.

As the New Year gets underway and we all think about our resolutions, do think about joining our club if you

are keen to get more involved in your local community. We would love to hear from you and tell you more about the club’s activities and events already being planned. For all the latest Rotary news or if interested in joining the club, visit our website: verwoodrotary.org.uk.

Santa at the Christmas event with the Mayor of Verwood Cllr Spencer Flower and Verwood’s Town Crier David Craner

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Laugh, live and learn at u3a

By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk No one in the Wimborne area needs to be lonely.

That is just one of the messages from Ashley Rowlands, the chairman of Wimborne u3a, the local organisation that provides a range of volunteer-led activities to anyone no longer in full-time employment who lives in the area.

Ashley joined the u3a in 2021 and became chairman in September 2024. He says the essence of the organisation – which started in the UK in 1982 as University of the Third Age – is to laugh, live and learn.

There are now more than 1,000 such organisations in the country, offering a huge variety of activities from philosophy to poetry, tai chi to table tennis, bridge to ballroom dancing, French or Italian language classes, plus a host of walking activities.

For just £60 a year,

members can sign up to as many courses and classes as they wish, subject to availability, and all are daytime.

Ashley, who runs a politics course, said: “People join for social reasons and soon meet like-minded friends. We have had a growth in our local population, and we want to introduce the u3a to them.”

He added that he didn’t want people to be put off by ‘University’ in the title, as all the activities are for enjoyment — with no exams.

“Inevitably, some courses become fully subscribed, but we will always try to put on more such groups.

Sports are always popular.”

The courses are held at a number of venues in Wimborne, including the Allendale Centre and in Sturminster Marshall, Corfe Mullen and Colehill.

One table tennis member

Outdoor activities

said: “I’m 74 and there aren’t so many places where you can play for so little cost.

I went along after a hip replacement to build up my strength and co-ordination.

It’s done me proud.”

Wimborne u3a also offers a series of talks for everyone, whether or not they are members. They take place in the Wesley Hall at Wimborne Methodist Church at 10am for a 10.30am start.

No booking is required, and they are £2 for u3a members and £4 for non-members.

Upcoming talks include one on Friday 23 January, when senior librarians Jayne and Mike Twomey will reveal the story of Wimborne’s historic Chained Library.

Then on 20 February, Dr Paul Stickler will talk about The Green Bicycle Murder which took place in 1919.

Sports such as table tennis are available

For more information, visit wimborneu3a.org.uk.

Strictly – u3a style

Success for West Moors shop -Advertisement feature-

Following a successful year of yarn sales, classes and workshops in West Moors, Unwind With Us celebrated the end of 2025 by winning two gold awards in the Ferndown Small Business Awards: My Favourite Business and Best New Business of the Year.

The shop has gone from strength to strength, stocking a wide range of knitting and crocheting yarns and accessories from Stylecraft, King Cole and James Brett. There are plans to further increase the ranges stocked throughout 2026, as well as adding more classes and workshops to the calendar.

Partner Sandra Ground said: “We are looking forward to welcoming new customers in 2026, as well as returning customers who have been so loyal to us over the past three years.”

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Turn your thumbs green in 2026

By Ollie Greensmith, chairman of Verwood and District Horticultural Society The Verwood and District Horticultural Society is delighted to unveil its full programme of events for 2026. Alongside moving its regular monthly meetings to the second Tuesday of each month, the society has planned a lively mix of social events, workshops, a plant sale, a celebrity speaker evening, and its two flagship open shows.

This year’s speaker calendar is wonderfully varied. Members can look forward to expert talks covering hands-on gardening advice, the intriguing world of carnivorous plants, the versatility of the hardy geranium, and insights into our local wildlife.

There’s even a whistle-stop history of garden design. A particular highlight will be hearing from a Dorset flower farmer who turned her love of blooms into a thriving business.

A special celebrity talk will take place on Saturday 28 February, when the society welcomes Sue Kent of ‘BBC Gardeners’ World’. Sue will share the inspiring story of her unconventional career path — from sports massage therapist (with the unique qualification of working using her feet) to television presenter, following her unexpected debut on ‘Gardeners’ World’ during lockdown. She will also offer a behind-the-scenes look at the creation

of her award-winning show garden for the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival, which earned her both a Silver Gilt medal and the People’s Choice Award. Tickets cost £12 (or £8 for society members).

The society is also eagerly preparing for its two annual Horticultural Shows — open to the whole community. The Spring Show on 21 March introduces several new daffodil classes designed to make it easier for firsttime exhibitors to take home a prize. Two exciting new competitions — the Daffodil Challenge and Daffodil Championship — each offer medals and £25 prizes. In addition, 10 Best Exhibit prizes of £15 (kindly sponsored by local Verwood businesses) will be awarded across categories including Photography, Handicrafts, Baking, and Flower Arranging. Details of all classes are on the website.

Local schoolchildren are warmly encouraged to enter the Junior classes, with creative challenges such as decorating a stone, building an original Lego model, crafting a humorous character from fruit and vegetables, and sharing their best flapjack bake. A colouring competition will also run, with entry sheets available from Verwood Library from early February.

The Spring Show will again feature the

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Flowers displayed at the society’s Autumn Show last September

popular Scarecrow Competition, now in its second year. Entrants of all ages are invited to design and build a scarecrow inspired by a ‘character from history’.

Prizes include £50 for first place and two runner-up awards of £25, generously sponsored by Verwood Town Council.

We’re also excited to be hosting a Willow Weaving workshop in April, led by Jo from Bella and Barley Craft. Jo will guide participants through creating a beautiful ornamental willow obelisk to take home for their gardens. Tickets will be available soon at £35, with all materials included.

For full details of all our events and to find out how to join, please visit verwoodhorticulturalsociety.co.uk or call 07508 577114.

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ringwood news

Many dressed up for the festive event © Viewpoint Magazine

Winter Wanderland success Huge crowds turned out for Ringwood’s annual Winter Wanderland at the end of November.

The festive event featured music, market stalls, fairground rides and a parade before the switching on of the town’s lights.

The Mayor of Ringwood, Cllr Rae Frederick, said: “Another

amazing year for Wanderland.

The weather was fantastic, and it was wonderful to see the streets, shops, restaurants and pubs of Ringwood busy all day.

“The new lights, funded

by Ringwood Town Council, looked stunning, and we’re hugely grateful to our sponsors and the many volunteers who helped bring the event to life.”

In December, new trees and guards were installed along the path at Carvers Recreation Ground as part of the town council’s improvement programme. Eventually, these trees will create an attractive tree-lined avenue and support biodiversity by providing a habitat for wildlife. The work was funded by a grant from Ringwood Actions for Climate Emergency, who are sponsored by Abacus Vehicle Hire. Two trees that had been vandalised were relocated to protect them and give them a chance to thrive.

Photo © Ringwood Town Council

Question Time is coming to town A major political programme is to be broadcast live from a venue in Ringwood, giving residents the chance to put their questions directly to leading politicians, influential thinkers and public figures.

Hosted by Fiona Bruce, BBC One’s ‘Question Time’ is the UK’s flagship political debate show, and it will be broadcasting from The Barn in Ringwood on Thursday 19 February 2026.

Each week, ‘Question Time’ delivers unscripted debate shaped entirely by real questions from local communities. From the biggest political stories of the moment to the issues affecting everyday lives, the programme gives the public a rare chance to challenge decision-makers directly, and in February it is Ringwood’s turn to ask the questions.

Sam Coombes, venue manager at The Barn, said:

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“This is an exciting opportunity for local residents to take part in one of the country’s most important democratic forums.

“The energy of ‘Question Time’ is unlike anything else on television, and to experience it live, right here in Ringwood, will be something truly special.”

Audience applications are now open. To be part of this broadcast, apply via eu.castitreach.com/ag/ mentorn/questiontime/ welcome.html.

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

Air Ambulance recognised at awards ceremony Two members of Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance (DSAA) were winners and two received commendations at this year’s Air Ambulances UK Awards of Excellence which took place on 3 December.

Specialist Practitioner in Critical Care, Steve Westbrook, came out the winner in the ‘Practitioner of the Year’ category.

He said: “I am very honoured and humbled to receive this award and it was a big shock to have won. I would like to thank the amazing team at DSAA I work with and of course my wonderful wife and family for their unwavering support for the job I do.”

Captain Kev Rutherford won this year’s ‘Air Ambulance Pilot of the Year’ after going above and beyond his core role as a pilot for DSAA. Chloe Riley, patient and family liaison nurse at DSAA was highly commended in the ‘Aftercare Supporter of the Year’ category.

Dr Matt Taylor has worked for DSAA for the past six years and was highly commended in the ‘Critical Care Doctor of Steve Westbrook won the ‘Practitioner of the Year’ award the Year’ category.

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

A healthier life made easy -Advertisement feature-

When the year changes, we think about lifestyle changes. So, if you’re looking to lose weight, get a little fitter, cut down on alcohol, or stop smoking, look no further.

LiveWell Dorset is your local dedicated health and wellbeing service, available completely free to every adult living in the county.

Its friendly team takes the stress out of making a healthy change.

Easy to register online or by phone, LiveWell offers a whole range of options including slimming vouchers, smoking quit kits and 1-2-1 coaching, with no catches and no hidden cost.

LiveWell takes away the stress of scrolling and Googling, offering a one-stop service with a wide choice of support.

Get personalised advice and the perfect package to help you break down any barriers, build confidence, and see results — beginning with small, clear, achievable goals. No quick fixes, just a lifestyle change that lasts.

Register online at livewelldorset.co.uk or by phone 0800 840 1628.

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

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

Record year for NGS The National Garden Scheme, which sees gardens across Dorset and Hampshire open to the public, raised a record £3,875,596 for nursing and health charities during 2025.

National Garden Scheme’s Chief Executive Dr Richard Claxton said: “It’s nearly 100 years since our charity was formed to support district nursing, and our commitment to nursing care remains central.

Long-term partnerships with Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie, Parkinson’s UK, the Queen’s Institute of Community Nursing, Hospice UK and Carers Trust are the bedrock of our donation programme, with the lion’s share of this year’s donation — £2,725,000 — going to these much-loved nursing and healthcare charities.

“As the NHS and social care sectors struggle to deal with the scale of need, the sustained funding from the National Garden Scheme allows these charities to continue the provision of critical community

nursing services, end-of-life care, and respite for families and carers across the UK.” The National Garden Scheme relies primarily on the income generated by admission at its garden gates and through the sale of plants, teas and cake at these gardens.

The National Garden Scheme is looking ahead to 2026 with optimism and the opening of over 3,300 gardens across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands.

To plan your next garden visit, go to ngs.org.uk.

Manor Farm at Hampreston is part of the National Garden Scheme

A still from ‘Walls Start to Melt’, a poem by Liv, animated by Rowena Sheehan © Dorset Council

Campaign to beat ketamine use A campaign has been launched in Dorset for people who want to kick their ketamine habit.

‘Forget The Ket’ signposts young adults to the free, confidential support available.

Both nationally and locally, there has been a concerning rise in ketamine use among young adults. Additionally, there has been an increase in ketamine and other drugs being contaminated with more potent synthetic opiate substances, heightening the risk of overdose. This campaign aims to educate young adults about these dangers.

While the safest option is not to use drugs at all, the

campaign provides harm reduction advice for those who do, helping to reduce the risk of overdose and other harms.

Cllr Gill Taylor, Dorset Council Cabinet member for Housing and Health, said: “Ketamine can have serious and lasting effects on someone’s life, both physically and mentally.

“Over the last year, we’ve seen multiple stories highlighting the dangers of ketamine.”

‘Forget The Ket’ is being delivered in partnership with Dorset Council, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council, Clarity (Dorset Lived Experience Recovery Organisation), the Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, Reach and WithYou. It aims to tackle the growing concern around ketamine use and its impact on young adults across the county.

As part of the campaign, Liv, a member of Clarity, wrote ‘Walls Start to Melt’, a poem based on her lived experience with ketamine. An animation has been created for the poem, which Dorset Council released on YouTube.

For more information about ketamine and the campaign, visit dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/ ketamine-facts-and-risks.

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new year, new you

If at first, you don’t succeed…

By Janine Pulford

Need help with your New Year’s resolution?

Cooking up a storm in 2026

By Ben Woodland A New Year for me usually consists of trying to convince myself that my resolution can last longer than February, but this year, at long last, I am making it my mission. As a 21-year-old, I’m always conscious of what I am eating; my housemates seem to be cooking up five-star meals while I have a very classy bowl of pasta for the fourth night in a row.

I then go to friends’ houses for dinner or back home for meals cooked by Mum and can only feel a slight shame that I could never produce those dishes myself.

This year, I need to retire the air fryer and attempt to make a few meals per week, at the very least. No more cheat meals or giving in to the temptation of Deliveroo, I aim to be making the most mouth-watering dishes that even chefs would be proud of.

I am not aiming for a Michelin star, but there is only so many beans on toast that a man can eat. In 2026, I will attempt to put an end to that and finally start cooking for myself more regularly.

The official New Year’s Resolution Week ran from 1–7 January. It’s been in existence since 2005, although people have been making resolutions for thousands of years, dating back to Babylonian times.

It’s a known fact that people begin to quit their resolutions before the end of January; around 43 per cent have given up

by February, according to sundried.com. But there’s no need to quit, just be flexible. I’m living proof of that.

Having disregarded my own advice not to be too ambitious when making a New Year’s resolution, I completed my 2024 pledge 24 months later, just before Christmas 2025.

All will be revealed further on.

The key to success is to choose a resolution you can achieve. Explore your options and don’t be too ambitious.

Here are some tips to maintain staying power • Don’t set your goal too high.

• Talk about it so people can support and motivate you.

• Work out a plan. Don’t make a rash resolution.

• Stick to your plan and don’t obsess over the occasional slip. It can take weeks before a new activity becomes a habit and months before it becomes part of your lifestyle.

• Take one day at a time.

• Don’t give up. There is a Japanese proverb that says, “fall seven times, stand up eight.” Failure doesn’t define you; it’s the fact that you stood up again that makes you who you are.

So why did my resolution take so long to complete? I got involved with home improvements and simply ran out of time in 2024. Instead of thinking I was a failure, I re-ran my resolution for a second year. It was a New Year’s resolution with a difference: a flexible resolution. Sometimes being flexible is all you need to achieve your goal.

Now to reveal my 2024 resolution. I resolved to finish writing and publish a book, but 2024 passed by in the blink of an eye and the resolution got bumped into 2025. It wasn’t until Christmas last year that I finally achieved it. Whether you’re aged nine or over 99, reading ‘Paws in the Flood’ could be a fun New Year’s resolution for you; good luck with whatever you choose.

Read an extract of Janine’s new book, ‘Paws in the Flood’ on page 28.

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new year, new you

How small steps can lead to big changes

By Helen Wilks, Clinical Solution-Focused Hypnotherapist & Psychotherapist The Dorset winter can feel long and grey, but January still brings a quiet spark of hope: “This could be the year I finally feel different.”

The good news? You don’t need super-human willpower or a total life overhaul. Tiny, evidence-based habits, done consistently, can lift mood, lower stress and start rewiring unhelpful patterns in weeks, not months.

One of the most powerful comes from positive-psychology founder Professor Martin Seligman. In a study with severely depressed people, participants wrote down just three good things that happened each day (however small). After only 15 days, 94 per cent moved from severe to mild or moderate depression. Acknowledging small moments, such as “my coffee was perfect” or “someone smiled at me in Tesco”, can create a huge shift.

With just five minutes before bed, this simple gratitude practice strengthens feelgood brain pathways and lowers cortisol.

Two more quick habit ideas you can

start today. First, the 60-second “Future You” visualisation. Close your eyes and vividly see yourself at the end of 2026 feeling calm, confident and light. Your brain sees imagination as reality and can start building new pathways.

Second, perform one kind act daily. Oxford University research shows that performing a deliberate act of kindness (texting encouragement, holding a door, paying for someone’s coffee) raises happiness levels more than anything you do for yourself.

These micro-habits work beautifully on their own, but if you’d like fast change with support, clinical solutionfocused hypnotherapy can help, where you stay awake and in control (no clucking like a chicken!).

Your brain is already wired to go into focused, daydream-like trance states several times a day (think of driving home on autopilot, or getting lost in a Netflix series). With hypnotherapy, you are guided into that natural state, then positive suggestion and neuroscience-

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based techniques are used to lower anxiety, reframe old patterns and strengthen desired feelings.

Most people feel deeply relaxed afterwards, but relaxing isn’t required for changes to take hold.

We focus on the solution, not the problem: where do you want to be, and how do you want to feel?

Ready to feel calmer, lighter and more like you in 2026? Start today, with three things you’re grateful for.

Helen is a clinical solution-focused hypnotherapist and psychotherapist in Ferndown. Initial consultation is free. Email info@helenshypnotherapy. com, call 07388 566312 or visit helenshypnotherapy.com.

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Charity of the Year

The Kotze family: Sophie and Kyle with their children, Seth, Skye and Axel

Bringing light to Dorset’s most vulnerable families

Axel and Seth with Julia's House sibling workers, Karen and Maria

By Julia’s House Julia’s House is your local children’s hospice, giving children with life-limiting and complex conditions and their families a chance to have the magical moments and memories every child and family deserves.

Our amazing nurses and carers bring clinical care, fun, laughter and compassion to the children they support at our hospices or in the comfort of their own homes. And we give exhausted parents a much-needed respite break from around-the-clock care, with the peace of mind that their child is in safe hands. We help families make the most of every day. Families just like the Kotzes and their daughter, Skye.

Helping Skye shine “The support Julia’s House has given us has been phenomenal — not just for Skye, but for our whole family,” explained Sophie, Skye’s mum.

“Skye loves spending time with the nurses, and those few hours of respite mean more than you can imagine.

For her dad, Kyle, and me, it gives us precious time together and with Skye’s brothers. The nurses just get it — they’re a shoulder to cry on and they celebrate every little win with you.”

For Sophie and Kyle, the world changed overnight when their daughter Skye, then aged just three, suddenly lost the ability to walk, talk, or even hold her head up. Once a

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bubbly, sociable toddler who loved singing and playing with her big brothers, Skye was struck by a rare, unnamed degenerative condition. Despite countless hospital tests, doctors couldn’t find a cause.

The family was told to prepare for the worst. “They said this would probably be Skye’s last Christmas and to make memories while we could,” Sophie recalled.

The festive season became bittersweet.

“We didn’t know we could hit that level of grief. We cried every single day. It felt like we were gradually losing different parts of our little girl,” Sophie said. But just as hope seemed lost, Julia’s House stepped in.

At first, the word ‘hospice’ filled Skye’s family with fear: “We thought it would be all about death. But when we walked in, there was laughter, colour, and children playing. It was full of life,” Sophie said.

The Julia’s House team began supporting Skye and her family with regular respite sessions, sibling support for her brothers Axel and Seth, and emotional and practical help for Sophie and Kyle.

A glimmer of hope In 2024, Skye began experimental treatment. Miraculously, her speech started to return, and one day, she was singing in the bath again. “It felt like I was getting my little girl back,” Sophie said.

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Skye Kotze developed a rare degenerative condition at the age of three

at school, using her walker, and even dancing at home. But the future remains uncertain, as her treatment has ended and doctors don’t know what lies ahead.

Grateful for the support they’ve received, Skye’s family is determined to give back. They’ve hosted bake sales, taken on walking challenges, and even embarked on a 100km fundraising trek in Colombia — all to help Julia’s House continue its vital work.

Most recently, Skye and her family have been the stars of the Julia’s House Christmas Appeal, helping us to raise £65,000 to fund our specialist care. With only eight per cent of the hospice’s ongoing funding coming from the government, we rely almost entirely on public donations.

Your support can help children like Skye enjoy the magic of Christmas all year round, while their families find comfort and hope. To donate, visit juliashouse. org/Skye or call 01202 644220. Your gift could help Skye — and families just like hers — shine through their darkest days.

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pets and wildlife

pets and wildlife

Bird flu warning In December, it was revealed that several swans found dead near Dorchester had bird flu.

Following the discovery, the government issued advice to reduce any risk to the public.

Avian influenza mainly affects birds and can spread through contact with infected birds or their droppings. While the risk to human health is low, it’s important to follow the advice to protect wildlife.

The public is advised to: stay on footpaths; keep dogs on leads; do not feed wild waterfowl; do not pick up or touch dead or sick wild birds;

and avoid touching feathers or surfaces contaminated with bird droppings.

If you find dead swans, geese, ducks or other wild birds, such as gulls or birds of prey, report them to Defra’s helpline on 03459 335577.

People who keep poultry and captive birds are advised to review their biosecurity measures, keep their housing secure, limit contact with wild birds, and follow official guidance. Any signs of illness should be reported immediately to a vet or the Animal and Plant Health Agency.

Save the date for the Big Farmland Bird Count A national census of farmland birds, run by the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) and supported by the NFU, will take place from 6 to 22 February.

The first Big Farmland Bird Count (BFBC) was held in February 2014 and has been repeated every year since. It provides vital data that helps conservationists learn which bird species are in trouble and how to help them.

The BFBC aims to raise awareness of the important role that farmers and land managers play in the conservation of farmland birds. GWCT is encouraging agricultural colleges and universities to get involved this year.

According to GWCT, farmland birds have declined by 63 per cent since 1970 —equal to 70 million birds in the past 50 years.

In the 2025 BFBC, nearly 359,000 birds were spotted during 1,332 surveys. The most common species seen was the starling. A total of 125 different species were recorded; the rarest sightings were of black grouse, bittern, greenshank and golden eagle. There were notable decreases in sightings of some species: red-listed fieldfares were down 52 per cent, long-tailed tits down 27 per cent, and curlew dropped 25 per cent year-on-year.

Joe Stanley, GWCT’s head of sustainable farming, said: “The BFBC is a great way for farmers and land managers to get out in the field and demonstrate the great work they’re doing to help nature thrive.”

Volunteers for Nature Recovery Dorset

Strategy to protect environment Dorset Council and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council are to work together over the next 10 years to help to restore and protect Dorset’s natural environment.

The Dorset Local Nature Recovery Strategy maps out opportunities and actions to reverse declines in nature.

It was developed by the two councils and Natural England.

Cllr Nick Ireland, leader of Dorset Council, said: “Dorset’s natural environment is one of our greatest assets, but over time it has been weakened.

This strategy marks a turning point, an end to the decline and a focus on recovery.

“Nature matters to everyone in Dorset, and this strategy turns ambition into action.

Working with our partners and

the local community, we can create cleaner rivers, thriving woodlands and protect our habitats and species.”

The strategy sets out practical steps to meet the national goal of protecting or managing 30 per cent of land, rivers and seas for nature by 2030.

People can read the Dorset Local Nature Recovery Strategy at dorsetcouncil. gov.uk/dorset-s-localnature-recovery-strategy.

Residents can also get involved by joining Nature Recovery Dorset, where they can record their own actions or read about what others are doing to get ideas. People can sign up by going to dorsetcouncil. gov.uk/nrd-network.

All the details of how to take part, bird identification guides and count sheets, are available on bfbc.org.uk.

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Have your say on the future of policing in Dorset

By David Sidwick | Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner I have now launched my annual precept survey, and I’m asking residents across Dorset to share their views on the policing element of Council Tax for the year ahead. As your Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), one of my key responsibilities is setting the police budget; your feedback plays an essential role in helping me make the best and most informed decision for our county.

Asking people how much more they would be prepared to contribute towards policing is never something I take lightly. I know many households are feeling the strain, and I share your frustration. This is why I have been relentlessly lobbying the government for a change to the national funding formula since I became PCC in 2021. This change is urgently needed to provide Dorset Police with the funding it requires — and deserves.

At present, the funding formula utterly fails to reflect the reality of our county: a rural area impacted by seasonality which brings challenges and pressures that differ significantly from other forces.

Dorset residents fund 52 per cent of the policing budget through Council Tax, whereas across England and Wales, the average is around 35 per cent, and in some areas as low as 20 per cent.

Dorset also receives the second lowest proportion of national police funding of any force, and the funding we do receive does not keep pace with inflation, mandatory pay increases, or the growing costs of modern policing.

But despite years of lobbying and campaigning, the government has decided to continue with this formula, signalling that forces are expected to rely more heavily on local precepts. While I will continue pushing for change, I also have a duty to ensure Dorset Police can continue to keep our communities safe.

That means asking residents how much more they would be willing to pay.

I want to reassure you that Dorset remains a safe county — currently the eighth safest in England and Wales. Crime continues to fall, outcomes for victims are improving, 92 per cent of 999 calls are answered within 10 seconds, and positive burglary outcomes have risen significantly.

Anti-social behaviour and knife crime continue to fall, with Dorset the fourth lowest county for knife offences. Dorset Police’s award-winning Rural Crime Team continue to achieve fantastic results including the recovery of a digger from Poland, a

caravan from Germany, and a tractor from Hampshire. These are achievements we can all be proud of, especially given the financial pressures the force faces.

The survey provides three options, including the potential maximum amount PCCs may be able to ask for: £14 per year. There are two other hypothetical amounts set in the survey, both likely to be above the precept limit: £20 and £26 per year, which is the amount needed to balance the budget and allow for some investment to be made in policing. Choosing one of these options would enable me to continue to push the government for a better, fairer deal for Dorset.

I am determined that Dorset will remain one of the safest places in the country, and I will continue to do all that I can as PCC to achieve that. Thank you for your support and for helping to shape policing for the year ahead by completing this short survey: surveymonkey.com/r/pressradiotv.

Starry Skies

By Mark Hardaker FRAS “In the bleak mid-winter Frosty wind made moan Earth stood hard as iron, Water like a stone;…”

Opening to ‘A Christmas Carol’, by Christina Rossetti (1872) There’s nothing like a bleak January evening for curling up in front of a warm fire with a glass of mulled wine, but outside you will be missing the glittering winter stars at their best. The clear and dry air we often get at this time of the year makes our winter skies darker and cleaner, so the stars seem to shine down and twinkle all the more.

Pop your head out of the window during the first week of January and take a look due south. There, low down in the sky, you will find brilliant Sirius, the Dog Star.

You can easily find it by following the line of the belt stars of Orion down and to the left, where you cannot miss it.

At just 8.6 light-years away, Sirius is the brightest star in our night sky — not

because it is the largest or most powerful, but Sirius in the night sky. Image made using Stellarium because it is among our closest cosmic mountains. Once a brilliant star, Sirius B neighbours. (also nicknamed “the Pup”) burned through In January, when the nights are longest its fuel long ago and collapsed into its and the air is quiet enough to hear frost current compact form. Today, it orbits Sirius settling on branches, Sirius appears A in an elegant celestial waltz once every almost alive. It quivers and twinkles with 50 years, so close that it is visible only in blues, greens and fleeting reds — an large telescopes like the one Fordingbridge optical illusion, yes, but also a reminder Astronomers uses at its local observatory. that the sky is not still. The star seems If you would like to learn more and view to pulse like a lantern carried across a the heavens with us, visit our webpage: dark field, guided by an unseen hand, fordingbridgeastro.org.uk. as its starlight passes through layers of

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VIEWPOINT January 2026

turbulent, chilly atmosphere. That flicker, almost like a heartbeat, has inspired storytellers for millennia.

Yet Sirius is not a solitary beacon.

It travels through space with a faint and ghostly partner: Sirius B, a white dwarf star so small and so dense that a teaspoon of its matter would outweigh @Dorset_View

Mark Hardaker lives in Verwood. He is an amateur astronomer and treasurer of Fordingbridge Astronomers. The club has an observatory in the international dark sky reserve at Cranborne Chase and provides astronomy outreach events for scouts, guides, youth groups and other organisations on request.

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Column by Fordingbridge Museum is sponsored by Adrian Dowding

Fordingbridge Archaeology

By Julian Hewitt | Fordingbridge Museum Investigating the past can be done using maps, contemporary accounts and documentary evidence such as official records.

Where there is little such evidence, archaeology can be a useful way of finding out about the past.

Recent archaeological excavations took place on the site of the housing development next to Station Road in Fordingbridge. These revealed a vast amount of material from Neolithic, Iron Age and Roman times which is still being processed.

Before this, the last large, systematic archaeological dig in the town was on the site between Bridge Street, Salisbury Street and the river where the former Albany and Greyhound hotels were located.

After the hotels were demolished in the 1980s, there was a perfect opportunity to explore the site. Wessex Archaeology and the Avon Valley Archaeological Society dug various trenches there. Not surprisingly, they discovered that the site was very waterlogged due to a high water table, the proximity of the river and the presence of spring water.

A raft of gravel to support the foundations of the buildings on the site had been laid down to overcome this. The main spring had been capped with ironstone slabs, and wooden planking had been erected to hold back river water in times of flooding. Incidentally, this spring was later used in the cellar of the greyhound pub to cool the bottled beers and to keep the fish, caught by anglers staying in the pub, fresh.

Some of the remains of buildings were medieval, dating from the 13th and 14th centuries. Most of these would have been half-timbered thatched cottages with walls strengthened by flint. There was evidence that an extensive

This illustration shows a fragment of a cow’s head that was a finial attached to the ridge tiles on the high-status house on Bridge Street

tanning industry was in operation on the site, as a stone trough used for soaking the hides in lime was uncovered.

This still had the remains of lime in the bottom. A total of 640 animal bones including horns and hooves were also found.

These were mainly from cattle, sheep and pigs. Often the feet were left on hides to function as handles in the tanning process.

One house facing Bridge Street was more substantial than the others. It had glazed roof tiles with ornamental ridge tiles and finials. This obviously belonged to a person of substance. It was speculated that the householder may have been authorised to collect tolls for the use of the bridge or have been involved in the thriving tanning industry on the site.

A total of 2,391 shards of pottery were found. Only one was Roman and most were from the medieval period.

These were mainly from kilns in Laverstock near Salisbury, with some from Verwood. Other finds included a gaming piece made of bone, fragments of leather shoes and a sewing kit with thimbles, pins and rings used in “heavy duty” sewing.

Meanwhile, 530 fragments of clay pipes were also found.

An interesting find was a gravestone used to cap a bricklined well. This was to Robert Stanfield, who was grandfather to one of the Tolpuddle Martyrs.

The inscription was unfinished, and the stone may have been broken in the manufacturing process. His grave, marked by a complete stone, is in Verwood church yard.

The full report of the dig by Phil Harding and Anthony Light is available on the internet.

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I find it makes fascinating reading and shines a light on the lives of people in the past. As with most historical evidence, it does not include the smells and noises that pervaded people’s lives. One can only imagine the effects of animal carcases being carried into the site, and the noises and smells generated as they were processed.

Thank goodness the air is fresher in the town now.

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| 25

puzzle zone / take a break and give your mind a challenge.

A special thanks to Burley’s Home Care for sponsoring puzzle zone

Codeword

Here’s how to solve Codeword. Every letter of the alphabet has been replaced by a number. All you have to do is decide which letter is represented by which number.

To start you off, we reveal the code for three letters.

To solve Sudoku, you need to fill the grid so that each row, column, and three-by-three box of cells contains the digits 1 through 9, without repetition.

Start by looking for rows, columns, or boxes that are almost complete, and fill in the missing numbers. Then use a process of elimination to look for the only possible cell within a row, column, or box where a number can fit.

Good luck and enjoy. Solutions are on page 45.

Sudoku

Scan this QR code to visit the Bright Heart Home Care website.

Bright Heart Home Care is part of the Burley’s Home Care family and a trading name of Burley’s Home Care Limited. Regulated activities are provided by Burley’s Home Care Limited, registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

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foodie news COMPETITION • COMPETITION • COMPETITION

Chance to win £60 voucher for food at Drusilla’s Inn, Horton In December’s issue, we published a review of Drusilla’s Inn delicious restaurant menu.

Editor Luke Graham and his wife visited the pub opposite the iconic Horton Tower run by Michelin-trained head chef James Beard and enjoyed a fantastic three-course meal.

In his review of the fine-dining experience, Luke wrote “Everything not only tasted great and was generously portioned, it was also well presented and professionally served.”

He especially enjoyed the “creamy

and delicious” pumpkin risotto, as well as the locally sourced roast pork and the “absolutely delightful” coconut and pineapple rice pudding.

This month, Viewpoint Magazine is giving away a £60 Delicious black pudding Mushroom Wellington voucher for one Shellfish cocktail Sticky toffee pudding lucky reader to treat themselves to a meal at Drusilla’s Inn. To enter the prize draw, answer this question and follow the instructions below:

What dish did Luke describe as creamy and delicious?

How to enter Enter online at dorsetview.co.uk. The £60 voucher will be valid for three months from the date of issue and must be redeemed towards the cost of food only at Drusilla’s Inn, Wigbeth, Horton, BH21 7JH. No change will be given.

Closing date is 20 February 2026. The first correct answer drawn will be the

winner. Employees of Pulford Publicity Ltd are not permitted to enter. There is no cash alternative. The editor’s decision is final. Personal details will be stored securely and will only be processed to determine the winner of the competition and allocate the prize. The winner will be announced in the magazine.

The Inn’s classy restaurant

Food to keep you healthy in 2026

By Marilyn Barber It’s January and you are likely to be on a health and fitness kick, perhaps even embracing ‘Dry January’, but are you eating the right foods? The NHS has some guidelines.

You should eat at least five portions of a variety of fruit and vegetables each day. They can be fresh, frozen, tinned, dried or juiced. Fruit juice and smoothies should be limited to no more than a total of 150ml a day.

And just a word of warning: if you are taking statins, you must avoid grapefruit and its juice, as it can dangerously raise medication levels in your bloodstream. The fruit can also interfere with medication for high blood pressure, insomnia and anxiety.

Starchy foods should make up just over a third of the food we eat. Choose higher-fibre or wholegrain varieties, such as wholewheat pasta and brown rice, or simply leave the skin on potatoes. Starchy foods are a good source of energy and the main source of several nutrients.

Beans, pulses, fish, eggs and meat are good sources of protein. Choose lean cuts of meat and mince, and eat less red and processed meat, like bacon, ham and sausages.

Aim to eat at least two portions of fish every week, one of which should be oily, such as salmon, sardines or mackerel.

Milk, cheese, yoghurt and fromage frais are good sources of protein, vitamins and calcium.

Finally, drink plenty of fluids; the government recommends six to eight glasses a day. please mention VIEWPOINT Magazine when you contact our advertisers

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| 27

around & about / what’s happening in your area.

Meet Max Nowza, dog detective It’s been two years since Dorset author, Janine Pulford, made a New Year’s resolution to get her seventh novel into print. She is now delighted to announce the release of ‘Paws in the Flood’.

Meet Max Nowza, the big-hearted dog detective with a loyalty to his owner that could easily bring you to tears, and just as easily make you laugh out loud.

When Max’s lead-meister, Adorable, is arrested for a crime she didn’t commit, the investigative pooch must take matters into his own four paws.

With his unkempt beard, large eyebrows and coarse grey, straggly coat, he’s such an unlikely detective, will anyone take him seriously? Not DI Roughly, that’s for sure, but Max knows every paw print on his patch, and the scruffy dog with a nose for justice is straight on the case.

This cosy crime novel is written from Max’s viewpoint and will enable readers aged from nine to over 99 to get right inside his head. His chumdogs also spring into life as he recalls events that led up to the case of ‘Paws in the Flood’.

This hero of the dog world will live in your mind long after you put the book down. Barky joy!

Here is the opening of Chapter 1:

Paws in the Flood

By Janine Pulford

Max Nowza, with a hooter the size of a beef shin, signing in.

When out for my walk one morning, I made a terrible discovery, and that’s a hard thing to do in the little village of Chiddle-pon-Piddle where I live.

My lead-meister, Adorable, and I were in the Dorset woodland leading to the river when a stag sprang out of the undergrowth right in front of us. Before Adorable could stop me, I was off.

The deer’s musky smell flew up my hooter and my heart knocked wildly in my chest as I charged after it, but the faster I ran, the faster he went. Even with my ears streaming back and my nose cutting the air like a dagger, I lost ground.

The scent got weaker and weaker then, bowser-wowser, it disappeared!

I skidded to a stop and found myself paw deep in flood water. The river was much wider than usual and bowl me over with a dock leaf, the stag was swimming across it with only his head and antlers sticking up. When he got to the far side, he hauled himself out and swaggered off, flashing his white bum in a victory wave. He knew the river was too deep and fast for me to cross.

In the next second, the strong tang of our top dog-walking friend hit me like a fly swat, but where was he, and where were his spaniels?

I stalked up and down the bank, noticing the smell was stronger at a huge tree that had fallen into the water. Its roots stuck out of the ground in an earthy lump, and some of the branches had sunk into the middle of the swollen river. After taking a few long sniffs, I saw my besties’ lead-meister caught in the branches and he was in big trouble.

Without thinking, I clambered up the roots onto the tree’s slippery trunk and edged along as the water flowed noisily below. If I lost my claw-hold, I’d be washed away.

When my front paws slid, I thought my time was up, so I kept still to recover before crawling on my belly into the branches.

Thank muttness they were sturdy, and I leaned into them for safety, peering through my hairy eyebrows at a pale face I barely recognised.

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‘Max,’ he said weakly. His dark hair straggled into sunken eyes that could hardly stay open. ‘Help me, Max.’ He was fading and there was nothing I could do. The way he was wedged in the branches kept him from drowning. If I tried to pull him free, he’d be washed away. I had to get Adorable and quickly, so I let rip with a volley of short, sharp barks. And where were my bestie chumdogs? There was not even a whiff of them.

I woofed and barked and barked and woofed until my throat hurt.

When Adorable found me, it took a while for her to work out what the problem was. Lead-meisters can be slow at understanding dog barks and to begin with, she thought I was stuck. Then she saw Joe. ‘Oh no!’ she cried, and her cheery face lost all its colour. ………….

To find out what happens next, visit amazon.co.uk and purchase your own copy of ‘Paws in the Flood’. It costs £7.99 in paperback.

ISBN 978-0955502255. There is currently no e-book version. © Janine Pulford 2025 @Dorset_View

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

19 January 2.15pm The Arts Society Wimborne and Blandford meets at the Allendale Centre for a talk by Eric Ravilious on ‘Art and Life’.

20 January 7.30pm Wimborne Civic Society meets at Allendale House for a talk on ‘Undertaking the refurbishment of Poole Museum’.

20 January 7.30pm The Grange Choral Society accompanied by Priory Choristers, soloists and orchestra perform Rutter’s Magnificat and Britten’s Saint Nicholas at Christchurch Priory. Tickets via christchurchpriory.org/ services-and-events, 01202 143870 or on the door.

21, 28 January 11am–1.30pm Colehill Community Café at St Michael & All Angels Church Centre, Colehill. For details, visit stmichaels.lemonbooking.com.

around & about 23 January 10am

2 February 7.15pm for 7.30pm

9 February 2.15pm

Wimborne u3a talk at Wimborne Methodist Church Hall on the Minster’s Chained Library. No booking required. £2 for u3a members; £4 for non-members.

Wimborne Gardening Club meets at St Catherine’s Church Hall, Rodways Corner.

West Moors Horticultural Society AGM and illustrated talk on ‘The Island of Tresco’ at the Memorial Hall. Contact Jo Breen on 07960 650611 or email wmhorticultural. society@gmail.com

23, 24, 30, 31 January 7.30pm Saturday matinee 2.30pm Castle Players presents ‘Little Red Riding Hood and the Three Little Pigs: Babe in the Hood’ at the Village Hall, Lytchett Matravers.

Tickets via 07771 444376 or castleplayers.com/tickets.

24 January 10am West Moors Horticultural Society meets at the Memorial Hall for a coffee morning. Contact Jo Breen on 07960 650611 or email wmhorticultural.society@gmail.com.

27 January 7.30pm West Parley Gardening Club meets at the MS Centre, Church Lane, West Parley, BH22 8TS for a talk by Rosemary Legrand on ‘My Japanese Journey’. Contact Rod Darch on 01202 896711.

1 February 2.30pm Vivamente Voices Winter Warmer Concert at St Mary’s Church, Sturminster Marshall. Free admission, retiring collection.

22, 29 January 1.45pm

2 February 10am

Dorset Cricket Society meets at Hurn Bridge Sports Club, Christchurch, BH23 6DY. Visit dorsetcricketsociety.co.uk for details.

2 February 10.30am–11.30am

Reading Friends meet at Wimborne Library.

Reading Friends: Reading Your Way at Ferndown Library.

4 February 10.30am–11.30am Reading Friends meet at Ferndown Library.

9 February 10.30am–11.30am

4 February 2pm–4pm

Lytchett & Upton Floral Club host Katie Baxter demonstrating ‘Tales from the Cutting Garden’ at Lytchett Matravers Village Hall, High Street, BH16 6DF. Doors open at 1.30pm and there is free parking. Arrangements will be raffled after the refreshment break.

Reading Friends meet at Ferndown Library.

Dorset Cricket Society meets at Hurn Bridge Sports Club, Christchurch, BH23 6DY. Visit dorsetcricketsociety. co.uk for details.

10 February 7.30pm

10 Ryan Close, Ferndown, BH22 9TP opens under National Garden Scheme. Features 150 varieties of snowdrops.

10–14 February 7.45pm

5, 12, 19, 26 February 1.45pm

6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15 February 11am–3pm

7 February 10am

West Moors Horticultural Society hosts a Road Wardens coffee morning at the Memorial Hall.

Contact Jo Breen on 07960 650611 or email wmhorticultural. society@gmail.com.

9 February 7pm for 7.30pm Ferndown & West Moors Philatelic and Postcard Club meets at The Hamworthy Club, Magna Road, BH21 3AP. Call Paul Barry on 07932 581791 or email paulrichardbarry@ hotmail.co.uk for details.

Verwood and District Horticultural Society meets at Verwood Memorial Hall. Details on verwoodhorticulturalsociety.co.uk or call Ollie on 07508 577114.

Bournemouth Little Theatre Club presents ‘I’ll Be back Before Midnight’ at its premises at 11 Jameson Road, Bournemouth, BH9 2QD. Tickets from bournemouthlittletheatre.co.uk.

11 February 7pm for 7.30pm

7 February 2pm–4pm

Canford and Merley WI meets at Merley Community Centre, Harrier Drive. For details, contact Hazel on 07780 705702.

Ferndown Arthritis and Friendship Club meets at Ferndown Plus Day Centre. Call 03303 112793 for details.

East Dorset Antiquarian Society meets at St Catherine’s Church Hall, Rodways Corner, Wimborne Minster.

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11 February 7.30pm

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around & about / what’s happening in your area.

Award ceremony to Fairytale mashup for Castle Players celebrate local music The annual Original Music Awards (OMAs), which celebrate Dorset musicians and the local industry, will take place on 17 January 2026. This year, the event is relocating from its usual venue, Lighthouse Poole, to Marsham Court Hotel in Bournemouth.

A range of awards will be presented on the night, decided by a panel of music journalists, musicians, promoters and radio hosts from across the county.

There will also be several special awards highlighting the contributions of individuals, shops and venues to the county’s music industry.

Most notably, the OMAs will present a special award for ‘Putting Dorset on the Map’ to acclaimed musician and political activist Billy Bragg.

Having owned a home in Burton Bradstock from 1999 to 2021, Bragg has long been vocal about the beauty of Dorset. In August 2025, he joined more than 200 campaigners to protest plans for a waste incinerator near the Jurassic Coast.

Organisers Matt Black and Mel Payne from Hangover Hill — the team behind the grassroots music events ‘Live

& Unheard’ and ‘Legends’ at Lighthouse Poole — said: “We started the awards to bring some positivity to the local music industry. We know what a thriving music scene there is in Dorset, and we felt it should be celebrated.

“The music community works because it supports itself, and as a direct result of the OMAs there are now more venues across Dorset that are willing to support and encourage original music. This can only be a good thing for creativity in this inspirational part of the world.”

Tickets to the OMAs are on sale at tickettailor.com/events/ hangoverhill/1963491.

Castle Players are to present ‘Little Red Riding Hood and the Three Little Pigs – Babe in the Hood’ on 23, 24, 30 and 31 January at Lytchett Matravers Village Hall.

This is a brand-new fairytale mashup written and directed by member of the company Phil McMullen. Packed with colourful characters, catchy songs and more silliness than ever, it’s set to be a family treat to kick off the New Year.

In this topsy-turvy tale, Little Red Riding Hood, her no-nonsense Granny, and the Three Little Pigs all find themselves facing the Big Bad Wolf at the same time. Add in Hansel and Gretel, a wicked witch, and a handful of dodgy comedy characters, and you’ve got the recipe for a magical adventure suitable for all ages.

There will be plenty of “Oh no he didn’t!”, audience participation, slapstick mayhem and a heart-warming story at its centre.

Tickets are available via castleplayers.com/ tickets or 07771 444376.

Castle Players also wish to welcome new members. Whether you fancy trying your hand at acting, helping backstage, assisting with costumes, makeup, set building, lighting, sound — or even just making tea and joining in the fun — there’s a place for everyone. No experience needed, just enthusiasm.

To get involved, contact info@castleplayers.com, visit castleplayers.com or see the Facebook page.

Hop on over to toad photo gallery Nearly snowdrop time An exhibition all about the region’s amphibious wildlife opened in January at Moors Valley Country Park and Forest.

‘Amphibians are Friends: A Tale of Toad Patrol’ is an outdoor photo gallery raising awareness of Ringwood and Poulner Toad Patrol. For nearly 40 years, volunteers for the patrol have helped toads trying to cross a busy stretch of road as they migrate down to the nearby lakes to breed.

Pictures of toads and other wildlife saved by the patrol feature in the gallery, taken and curated by Louis Pulford (this magazine’s creative director). Louis has volunteered with the Toad Patrol since 2024.

He said: “I have always been intrigued by amphibians since I was a child. I used to collect frogspawn from our family pond and grow the tadpoles in a tank and release them back into the wild. Watching the lifecycle of the tiny black dot morph into a tadpole then into a frog always blew my tiny little mind — nature at its best!

“So, when I heard about Toad Patrol through a press release, I picked up the phone, hopped on board and got involved. The New Forest

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VIEWPOINT January 2026

gives me so much; in return, it is the least I can do to say thank you.”

The gallery opened on 10 January and runs until 12 July. It is free to visit — Moors Valley does not charge admission per person, but vehicle charges apply.

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What everyone longs to see as we welcome in a New Year is snowdrops and hellebores – and you don’t have long to wait as during February two local gardens are opening up under the National Gardens Scheme (NGS).

You can see snowdrops at the garden at 10 Ryan Close, Ferndown, BH22 9TP on Friday 6, Saturday 7, Sunday 8, Friday 13, Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 February from 11am to 3pm. There will be 150 varieties of snowdrops carefully named in baskets and snowdrop talks during day.

Hellebores will be on show at Manor Farm, Hampreston, BH21 7LX on Saturday 28 February from 10am to 1pm and Sunday 1 March from 1pm to 4pm. This traditional farmhouse garden has been designed and cared for by three generations of the Trehane family for over 100 years.

You can also see the snowdrops growing at St George’s Church, Damerham, SP6 3HU on the Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 February from 10am to 4.30pm. There will be homemade refreshments served from 10.30am to 3.30pm, as well as stalls selling local Snowdrops at Kingston Lacy produce, books, bric © Viewpoint Magazine a brac and more. @dorset_view

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around & about

Joey, Goldilocks and Betty Barnum © Deborah Hurst

REVIEW Goldilocks

and the Three Bears Made to Measure Productions, Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne

By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk From the very first minute until the end, this panto filled the theatre with superlative entertainment for all ages.

With the innovative setting of a circus, there was spectacle, colour, exuberant characters and a whole lot of fun.

And to verify that it wasn’t just my opinion, the friend who accompanied me — who hadn’t been to a panto for many years but had heard of the reputation of the Tivoli Theatre’s one — enjoyed every single minute.

Running from 12 December until 3 January, it was devised and staged by Lee Redwood, who has created the pantos at the Tivoli for the past eight years. Playing the role of Joey the Clown, Lee with his endearing and fun personality wasn’t just the ‘children’s friend’, he got the adults on his side too.

Interacting brilliantly with Lee was Lucia Jade Parker making a very welcome return to the Tivoli panto as Goldilocks. A highly skilled actress and singer, she too was so good at engaging with the audience.

It was Courtney Jackson’s seventh consecutive year in the Tivoli panto as the dame — in this case Betty Barnum, the owner of a struggling circus. A semi-finalist in an eight-person troupe of panto dames in ‘Britain’s Got Talent’, Courtney is clearly one of the best dames in the country: endearing, humorous, and rather a good dancer.

The audience were quick to boo at Paul Hill’s portrayal of the nasty Baron Ronald von Tinklebottom and to be wooed by the endearing three bears: Jo Michaels-Barrington as Mummy Bear, Jack Everson as Daddy Bear and Katie Mitton as Baby Bear.

The production was further enhanced by the talented ensemble of Lianha Cooke, Gemma Davis (the choreographer), Chloe Davies, Olly Gooch, Erin Harrison, Thomas Marc Toombs, Finlay Tozer and Richard Womersley.

People travel from far and wide to the Tivoli panto, and it is easy to see why.

And just so you don’t miss it, tickets are already on sale for this year’s panto ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ which will run from 12 December until 3 January.

Dorset’s Town of Culture 2026 gets ready 2026 is going to be very exciting for Wimborne Minster, with events such as a youth festival and sculpture trail being planned to celebrate it becoming Dorset’s Town of Culture this year.

Wimborne Minster Town of Culture 2026 is led by Wimborne Minster Town Council, who have appointed Emma Kerr as producer and project manager.

Under the theme ‘Bridging The Past and the Future’, the year-long project aims to raise the profile of arts, culture, sports, recreation and leisure that already exists (and is yet to exist) in Wimborne.

Kerr said: “Wimborne’s story began over a thousand years ago, and this year it’s being told in a new voice. From Roman roads to digital creativity, from folk festivals to contemporary performance, we’re celebrating what makes Wimborne special.”

The programme is supported by the town’s cultural organisations including Allendale Community Centre, East Dorset Heritage Trust, Museum of East Dorset, Millstream Theatre, Walford Mill, Wimborne Community Theatre, Wimborne Minster Folk Festival, The Minster (St Cuthburga’s Church), National Trust-managed Kingston Lacy, Radio Wimborne and Wimborne Model Town & Gardens.

The Mayor of Wimborne Minster, Cllr Jeff Hart, said: “Our programme of events will create lasting positive change while celebrating our remarkable heritage and creative talent.”

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motoring / keeping you on the road.

How to buy the right classic car

By Tim Winton, Cambrian Classics

If a classic car is on your wish list but you’re worried about choosing the wrong one, a little preparation can save you a lot of money and stress If you’re thinking of owning a classic car in 2026, one of the most important things is to buy the best you can afford. A solid, well-maintained classic almost always costs less in

the long run than a cheap “project”. Bodywork, welding and paint are especially expensive, and repairs to a tired car can quickly exceed the price of a better example.

Here are a few more tips: Take an expert with you It’s easy to be swayed by first impressions, so bring someone who knows the model well. They’ll spot issues like poor repairs, hidden rust or mechanical problems that you might miss on a test drive.

Even when buying from a dealer, an independent expert eye is worthwhile — they’ll know the weak points and typical trouble spots.

cost thousands, so inspect the shell carefully. Look for bubbling paint, uneven reflections and evidence of filler, and always check the vehicle when it is dry and in good daylight. Unless you’re specifically seeking a

restoration project, avoid cars with significant corrosion.

Even though older cars are MOT-exempt, a current certificate is a strong indicator of roadworthiness.

A lack of MOT history can hide serious issues.

Prioritise body condition Rust is the biggest enemy of any classic. Proper body repairs and paintwork can

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VIEWPOINT January 2026

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motoring

Budget for ongoing maintenance Purchase price is only the start. Running costs vary widely: marques like MG, Mini and Triumph are inexpensive to maintain, while luxury brands can be far pricier.

Set aside an annual maintenance fund for servicing, repairs and tyres; many classics run on old tyres long past their safe lifespan.

Before buying, make sure parts are available and that a mechanic near you

understands older cars.

Popular models have excellent support; rarer ones can be frustrating if parts are obsolete.

Classics often need a mechanic who understands carburettors, ageing electrics and incremental fault-finding rather than modern diagnostics.

Choose a car that suits your lifestyle Be realistic about how you’ll use your classic. Do you want gentle weekend drives, regular journeys or long tours? Think

about practicality, storage space and ease of driving.

You’ll enjoy and use a car that fits your habits far more than one chosen purely on nostalgia.

Classic cars reward careful buying. Do your research, take advice, and choose with both head and heart.

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Tim Winton is the founder of Cambrian Classics, a familyrun business that specialises in classic car repair and servicing and is located by the Ceredigion coast.

To find out more, visit cambrianclassics.co.uk.

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| 33

The Bishop of Sherborne the Rt Rev Karen Gorham attended Wimborne Minster’s midweek communion service in December to license the Rev Steve Atkins as an Associate Priest in the Wimborne Minster Benefice.

L-R: the Rev Marianne Mangham, curate, the rector Rev Canon Andrew Rowland, Rev Steve Atkins, the Rt Rev Karen Gorham, and Rev Heather Waldsax. Photo © Beatrice Dopita.

CORRESPONDENCE

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

Lloyds Bank closure in Ferndown I read with sadness the closing of the Lloyds branch in Ferndown on 17 November 2025.

The town’s very last bank. Many old people without computers, mobile phones, transport or access to buses have used that branch.

On complaining to the head office, I was told to pay my credit card bills online or at the post office.

At the post office, I was refused service because my bills did not have bar codes.

Fortunately, I am still driving and paid my bills at Ringwood.

I feel very sorry for the people without this facility, particularly the lady who followed me into the branch last time I used it. The lady was using a walking frame. Some people have been on disabled scooters.

Lloyds [claim to] show customer responsibility. I’m afraid they don’t care.

Very disappointed customer Letter by email

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VIEWPOINT January 2026

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in the home

Blue Monday makeover

Tiles from Walls and Floors, £42.95 per sqm

The third Monday of January is often labelled ‘Blue Monday’ and it is allegedly the most depressing day of the year due to bad weather, debts from Christmas and New Year’s celebrations, and lack of motivation after the festive season.

While Blue Monday is almost certainly a myth — it was conceived as a marketing gimmick by a UK travel agency — that doesn’t mean we should discount it as an opportunity to think about our mental health and wellbeing.

If you’re feeling down in the dumps, perhaps redecorating will brighten your mood? After all, blue shades like teal and aquamarine are ever so pretty, and can add depth, sophistication and contrast to your rooms. Here is some decoration inspiration.

Sofa from Daals, £1,399.99 Lamp from Click Style, £39.50 Chair from Cult Furniture, £139

Footstool from Homescapes, £59.99

Sofa from Sofology, £899 Chair from Cult Furniture, £89

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| 35

in the home / home is where the heart is .

Time to sort out your wardrobe

By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk I am always full of admiration for people who say they have taken several bags of clothes to their local charity shop.

I do take bags to charity shops, but they might contain just one garment amongst many other items.

Like so many people, I have three wardrobes full of clothes but claim I have nothing to wear. (Not as bad as one friend who admits to nine wardrobes).

2026 must be the year I de-clutter my wardrobe — so here are some handy tips.

First, make it a fun event, by putting on your favourite music.

Next, take out all the clothes and lay them on the bed. If there are items that still have tags on, you clearly don’t like them, so they must go.

Also, if you haven’t worn something in the last year, try it on to see if it still fits — and if you like it. If not, it is bound for the charity shop or an online market place.

The British Red Cross has a good

tip. If you’re not sure about a garment, attach a safety pin to it — if it’s still there in a few months, you’ll know it was destined for the donate pile.

Alternatively, each time you put your clothes back in the wardrobe after wearing, turn round the coat hangers. In no time, you will spot the items that are no longer favourites.

Now all I need to do is practise what I preach!

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VIEWPOINT January 2026

Why you should shop local

-Advertisement feature-

By The ShutterShack At The ShutterShack, we’re proud to be a truly local, independent business based right here in Verwood.

We specialise in made-to-measure plantation shutters, offering a personal service from the first consultation to the final installation.

As a small company, we take great pride in the quality of our work and the relationships we build with our customers.

Our reputation has grown through word of mouth and the many wonderful reviews we’ve received from homeowners across Verwood and the surrounding areas. Knowing that our community values our craftsmanship, attention to detail, and friendly approach means everything to us.

By choosing a local independent business like The ShutterShack, you’re not just upgrading your home — you’re helping to support the local economy and keep our community thriving.

To learn more or book a free consultation, visit theshuttershack.co.uk. We’d love to help!

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in the home

Free water-saving devices Many water companies offer devices to help their customers use less water. For instance, Bournemouth Water is offering free products that will help people to reduce their water bills.

Customers can claim a range of water-saving devices, including: Buffaloo Cistern Bags This product reduces the amount of water a single-lever toilet releases with each flush, without reducing the toilet’s performance.

These bags can help a family of four save almost £100 a year.

LeakyLoo Detection Strips A biodegradable and water-soluble strip that sticks to your toilet and highlights if you have a leak. Undetected leaks from loos can often be invisible to the eye and can waste thousands of litres

of water, adding hundreds of pounds to a metered bill over the course of a year.

Four-Minute Shower Timers Just one minute less in the shower could save £30 per person a year and thousands of litres of water.

Shower Flow Regulator Attached between the hose and your existing shower head, this easy-to-fit tool limits water flow to seven litres per minute, reducing the amount of hot water used during each shower.

To order your free water-saving devices, visit bournemouthwater. co.uk/household/your-services/save-water/come-rain-or-shine.

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in the home / home is where the heart is .

Ring ring Will you get a smart doorbell in 2026?

By Luke Graham Walk along any housing estate and you’re likely to see a few homes with high-tech doorbells on their front doors: square boxes with built-in cameras that can automatically record visitors and are connected to the internet.

Mechanical doorbells, which required visitors to pull a chain or string to ring a bell, were first invented in 1817, while electric doorbells were invented in 1831.

One of the earliest smart doorbells was Ring, which was first sold in 2013, though it didn’t enter the UK market until 2016.

The company that made Ring doorbells was acquired by Amazon in 2018.

There are now lots of options in the marketplace, and they are increasingly popular: according to a report from 2022, one in five homes has a video doorbell.

So, what’s the appeal?

Knowing who is knocking on your door without having to open it is obviously convenient and can be safer.

Video doorbells can send a notification to your phone, so no matter where you are in the house, you’ll be alerted

that someone’s at your door.

If you’re out and about or unable to answer the door and a package is delivered, you can usually speak through the video doorbell to say where you want your package to be left.

They can also help secure your home. Using motion sensors, they can automatically record anyone loitering outside your home, potentially deterring would-be burglars or providing vital evidence to the police.

We bought an Amazon doorbell during the Black Friday sales in November.

At the time of writing, I’ve yet to install it, but it looks straightforward. We ordered a wireless version that has a battery. It means we will occasionally need to bring it inside to charge, but it also means we don’t need to pay an electrician to hardwire it to the mains. I simply need to use a drill and screwdriver to attach a plate to the wall next to my door, then pop the doorbell in place.

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VIEWPOINT January 2026

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The Ring doorbell © Amazon

Other than the tools, I’ll need to download the app and connect the doorbell to the internet. That’s to make sure I receive the notifications and camera footage on my phone.

As smart doorbells continue to evolve and become more accessible, it’s easy to see why so many households are making the switch. Whether you’re waiting for a parcel or keeping an eye on who’s stopping by, they offer security and peace of mind. Once ours is up and running, I’m looking forward to seeing just how much difference a small device on the front door can make.

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in the home / home is where the heart is .

Protect your pipes Christmas may be behind us, but the weather outside is (still) frightful The Met office issued a yellow weather warning for snow and ice across Dorset in early January. It’s a good reminder that winter doesn’t end after the Christmas decorations come down.

With more cold weather to come in January and February, it’s important to prepare for freezing conditions.

A sudden drop in temperature can cause serious harm to your home.

When water freezes and turns into ice, it expands by nearly 10 per cent. This will stop the flow of water through pipes and can cause them to split, often resulting in leaks and bursts which can lead to flooding and damage to properties and gardens.

Here is some advice from South West Water to help you protect your home from freezing weather and prevent leaks and burst pipes.

Wrap up pipes and water tanks with lagging – especially those in unheated areas such as lofts, garages or gardens.

Find your stop tap (usually under the kitchen sink or where the pipework enters your property) and make sure you can turn it off if you discover a leak or burst.

Leave the heating on low if you go

away overnight or for a few days.

Check your central heating boiler has been serviced and bleed your radiators — this will improve efficiency and reduce the risk of radiator pipes freezing.

Keep the contact details of a plumber on hand who can help you in an emergency. Why not check out our specialist services advertisers on pages 44 and 45 to find one near you?

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VIEWPOINT January 2026

What to do if your pipes are frozen If you don’t have any water, check with neighbours. If they still have water, your pipes may be frozen.

Check pipes for signs of a split — a leak or burst will not occur until the ice has thawed.

Turn off the water supply using the internal stop tap.

If the central heating and other water heating appliances are already on, keep them on. But if they are currently turned off, do not be tempted to switch them on to thaw frozen pipes — this could cause damage.

Drain the cold water system by flushing the toilet and opening cold taps over sinks and baths.

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Frozen pipes can lead to major property damage © South West Water

If you don’t find any damage, turn on all the taps and thaw the frozen pipe using a warm towel or hot water bottle wrapped in a towel.

When the pipes have thawed and you’re sure there are no damaged or leaking pipes, turn off the taps and slowly switch the supply back on using the stop tap.

Finally, recheck the pipes now that they are under pressure and check again for signs of damage or a leak before switching on water heating appliances. If you discover a leak or burst pipe, call a plumber immediately.

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in the home / home is where the heart is .

Save energy in 2026

By Luke Graham

Home energy prices rose in January, as the energy price cap set by regulator Ofgem was lifted The price cap is set every three months and controls what energy companies can charge for electricity and gas.

According to Ofgem, prices for the typical household have risen by just £3 to £1,758 per year — less than 0.2 per cent.

However, other analysts like Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis warn bills are rising higher for heavy electric users: electricity unit rates increased by 5.1 per cent, while electricity standing charges are up by two per cent.

One way to save energy is to reduce how much you use each day, so turning off lights or appliances when they’re not in use.

But making your home more efficient could save more energy in the long run, bringing down bills and doing your bit for the environment. So, what changes could you make in 2026?

Solar panels According to the Money Saving Expert website, there are 1.5 million homes in the UK with solar panels. While generating free power from sunlight sounds like a bargain, they are an expensive investment, costing an average of £6,100.

Prices will vary based on the size of your panel system, your installer and your location.

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VIEWPOINT January 2026

It is estimated that solar panels can reduce your energy bills by £190 to £350 per year, and you can save extra money with an ‘export’ energy tariff that pays you for excess energy you generate and send back to the national grid.

Unfortunately, it is likely to take at least 10 years or more for your solar panels to recoup their costs and pay for themselves. However, installing panels might increase the value of your property, and there is the ‘feel-good’ factor of knowing you have reduced your carbon footprint.

Use the Energy Saving Trust’s online calculator to estimate how long it will take you to break even on your solar panel investment.

Other costs to consider are that solar panels have a life span of around 25 years, so will eventually need replacing. And while they’re low maintenance, you will need them to be regularly cleaned to ensure they are working efficiently.

You might be able to get your panels slightly cheaper through a group-buying scheme. For instance, Solar Together groups residents from across the country together to negotiate better deals.

Instead of exporting the excess solar energy, you

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could install a solar battery to store this power. This can be more economical: what you earn from exporting energy will be lower than the price you pay for electricity.

However, solar batteries can be pricey: The Eco Experts estimate the average price to be around £4,500.

Insulation Extra home insulation can reduce your carbon footprint and your energy bills.

According to the government, loft and cavity wall insulation are two of the most costeffective energy efficiency measures to reduce bills.

Most homes built between 1920 and 1990 have a gap between internal and external walls. Filling this cavity with insulating material keeps cold air out and warm air in — but it’s not suitable for all types of home. Meanwhile, up to a quarter of your home’s heat escapes through the roof, but laying mineral wool under the rafters can limit this.

Speak to trusted local suppliers, like some of the advertisers in this magazine, to find out if insulation is right for your home.

Simple fixes There are other small changes that can help you save energy.

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Find and repair any drafts letting cold air in, such as around windows. Placing draft excluders along the bottom of doors can also help.

Switch halogen light bulbs to more efficient LED lights, which use half the energy and last longer. The Energy Saving Trust says that switching 50-watt halogen bulbs to LEDs could save up to £4 per bulb per year.

Check your boiler is working correctly. Boilers should be serviced annually by a professional, which will save money in the long run by fixing issues and making sure it is running efficiently.

If you have a combi boiler, check to see what the flow temperature is set to – this is the heat of the water running through your radiators. It is often set higher than needed, at 70°C or 80°C; according to Nesta, combi boilers work best at 60°C. Is your fridge freezer too cold? The Food Standards Agency recommends fridges should be set to 5°C and freezers to -18°C. Any colder than this may be just wasting energy. Modern fridges have temperature gauges to control this setting.

Got any energy saving tips to share? Email luke@dorsetview. co.uk with your ideas.

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in the home

Love food, hate waste If you’re still looking for a New Year’s resolution, cutting food waste could be a good suggestion.

According to environmental group WRAP, food thrown in the bin costs on average £1,000 for a household of four every year.

Wasted food also feeds climate change: 16 million tonnes of CO2 comes from wasted food and drink each year.

To tackle the issue, the

national Love Food Hate Waste campaign is offering advice on how to reduce food waste.

One of the most wasted items is the potato: 8.2 million potatoes are wasted in UK homes every day — that’s 41 per cent of all spuds bought.

But storing your potatoes in the fridge can make them last three times longer.

Also, learn your labels.

‘Best before’ labels denote food quality; food past its ‘best before’ date can be safe to eat for days, months or even years after the date.

‘Use by’ labels refer to safety, and food should not be eaten after this date.

Lastly, make sure you use your food waste bin.

Local areas like Ringwood and Fordingbridge have only recently started food waste recycling collections, which should be used for any food that can’t be eaten. Throwing food in the rubbish bin

impacts the environment as the food gets incinerated or breaks down with other waste in landfill, producing harmful greenhouse gases.

Instead, recycling food waste turns it into something useful, including fertiliser or energy to power our homes.

For more tips, head to lovefoodhatewaste.com

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

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VIEWPOINT January 2026

PLUMBING

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PLUMBING

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Preview Sir Christopher Chope, right, with interviewer Marilyn Barber

Subscribe to our Youtube Channel www.youtube.com/@‌dorset_view

Christchurch MP Christopher Chope talks politics on the podcast Sir Christopher Chope has had quite the political career.

The Conservative MP was first elected in 1983 for the seat of Southampton Itchen. He lost the seat in 1992 to Labour but returned to Westminster in 1997 when he was elected the MP for Christchurch, a seat he has held for nearly 20 years.

In late November, the 78-year-old came onto Your Voice | Dorset Podcast to talk about his experiences, including serving in Margaret Thatcher’s government in the 80s. He recalled fond memories of the Iron Lady.

“I was absolutely devoted to her,” he said. “She still remains my great character who I wish to emulate in politics, not that I can.

“She was surprisingly approachable. If you had supper with her, she would insist on

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VIEWPOINT January 2026

washing up the dishes.

“The first time I ever met her was back in 1976, soon after she became leader of the Conservative Party.

I was chairman of Putney Conservatives in London.

She came and visited an old people’s day centre. I was really impressed… because she got down on her knees and spoke to every single individual in that day centre.

“She treated them as an equal to herself.”

Chope served in the Department of the Environment and was involved with the infamous poll tax.

“It became unpopular, but at the time it was popular because it was getting rid of the old unfair rates system. Margaret was insisting, and I agreed with her, that it was important in local

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government that everybody should make a contribution.

It was a ready reckoner and would enable them to hold their councillors to account.”

The poll tax was introduced in 1990 but didn’t last long. Its repeal was announced in 1991 and replaced by the current Council Tax system in 1993.

So, what does it take to be a successful (or at least long-lasting) politician?

“You’ve got to have a thick skin,” Chope advises. “You’ve got to be true to yourself. I don’t lose sleep [if someone criticises me]. I sometimes lose sleep over the injustice of some of the criticism.”

Chope admitted that being the opposition party is “gruelling, unrewarding” work.

“But it’s a time to take stock, prepare and reexamine

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your policies, work out where you went wrong and how you’re going to win back the support of the public.”

And would he join Reform?

“Not in the least. But I would like to see the right unite. I’m very pleased there’s an increasing confluence of the policies of the Conservative Party and Reform.

That could be the foundations for us working together at the next General Election.”

To learn more about the local MP, including his thoughts on the 2024 General Election, tune in to the latest episode of the podcast.

Search for Your Voice | Dorset Podcast online or watch the interview on dorsetview.co.uk/ podcast and youtube.com/@ dorset_view. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more great interviews and videos.

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