Marvellous market
Ringwood to celebrate 800th anniversary of Royal Market Charter. Special feature, p19–25
Established Over 40 Years | ISSN 2397-7183 (print) | ISSN 2397-7191 (online)
VIEWPOINT
Dear Readers!
Too hot, too cold, too windy and too wet. And yes, of course, I need to tidy my sock drawer.
These are all the excuses I make for not donning my gardening gear and fighting the weeds in my garden.
I blame the wild strawberries, which increase year on year; getting rid of them is becoming an unwinnable battle, as my neighbours have also found.
However, I do argue that the tiny fruits make a good meal for the birds.
I have left a part of my back garden as a wild area and have been delighted at the variety of plants that have sprung up, from bluebells to ox-eye daisies.
However, my tardiness cannot be allowed to continue. I should take inspiration from private gardens that can be visited across the area during the summer.
In addition to those open under the National Gardens Scheme, towns and villages have open gardens days to raise funds for charity.
Over the May Bank Holiday, 20 gardens were open in the village of Witchampton. Wow. What a delight. Cottage and much more extensive gardens displayed the creativity of villagers, who were all on hand to offer advice and explain the work that had gone into them.
I have written articles on gardening — see the one on gardening tools on page 34 — and my bookcase is bulging with helpful books, so there is no excuse.
And on Sunday 28 June, I will have the chance to get fresh inspiration when Wimborne in Bloom holds its open gardens day. One of my neighbours, whose garden is a credit to the cul-de-sac, is opening his colourful and well-designed garden to visitors. I won’t be doing the same. Well, not this year anyway.
Marilyn Barber
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Support our hospice hike
By Luke Graham
Did you know that Julia’s House operates two children’s hospices, one in Corfe Mullen and the other in Wiltshire? The distance between the two is around 60 miles.
To raise funds for this vital charity, which delivers care to children in Dorset and Wiltshire with a lifelimiting or life-threatening condition, a team from Pulford Publicity (the publisher of this magazine) plan to walk that same distance this summer.
Julia’s House is Pulford Publicity’s charity of the year. It provides a lifeline of care to seriously ill local children and their families. Fundraising is vital to Julia’s House — 92 per cent of its funding comes from the local community.
To support our chosen charity, the six members of the team will divide up the distance between the two hospices and walk 10 miles each in one day.
The Connecting the Hospices Hike is scheduled for Friday 21 August. The team are planning to tackle an iconic route along the Jurassic Coast past Old Harry Rocks and Swanage.
To take on this tough hike and support Julia’s House in delivering care to local children with a life-limiting or life-threatening condition, we need your help to hit our fundraising target of £1,500. To donate, visit justgiving.com/page/connectingthe-hospices-hike.
Ringwood hairdresser nominated for award
A project offering free haircuts to those facing financial hardship has been nominated for a prestigious BBC Radio Solent Make a Difference Award. The awards recognise those making life better for people across Hampshire, Dorset and the Isle of Wight.
Community Haircuts was launched by hairdresser Georgia Chappels in Ringwood in September 2025. Chappels and her team of volunteer hairdressers now offer regular sessions in Ferndown, Verwood and Poole, in women’s refuges across Dorset, and will soon launch in Christchurch and Boscombe.
The person who nominated Community Haircuts wrote in their submission: “Georgia has recently qualified and wanted to help people who are struggling feel better and offer them a free haircut.
“Georgia gives up many hours of her time per week to offer this service whilst also working and raising her four children.
“She definitely deserves to be
recognised for making a difference.”
In response to her nomination, Chappels said: “I’m truly blown away to be nominated, and it would not be possible without the incredible team around me.”
To find out more about the project, search for Community Haircuts on Facebook.
BBC Radio Solent will reveal the award finalists in the summer. The winners will be announced in September.
Georgia Chappels runs Community Haircuts
New mayoral team for Ringwood
The town council has appointed a new mayor and deputy mayor
Mayor Cllr Mary DeBoos said: “As my hometown, Ringwood has a very special place in my heart, and I’m delighted to be town mayor this year as we celebrate the 800th anniversary of the Market Charter. I look forward to serving our residents, supporting local businesses and organisations, and working alongside councillors and volunteers to continue making our town a wonderful place.”
Deputy Mayor Cllr James Swyer said: “It’s an honour to be asked to represent this wonderful community alongside our new town mayor, and I’ll do all I can to ensure all those in the town are heard and supported.”
Ringwood Town Council said it would like to extend its sincere thanks to Cllr Rae Frederick for her two years as mayor and for the energy and commitment she brought to the role.
Residents are encouraged to take part in the town’s events and celebrations throughout the coming year.
The mayor and deputy mayor
Blandford brewers open the Community Chest
Hall & Woodhouse has launched its 25th Community Chest Awards with £80,000 available — its largest ever grant fund.
Since launching in 2002, the Community Chest has donated more than £940,000 to over 1,000 charities focused on causes including homelessness, food poverty, mental health, social inclusion, and community wellbeing.
Organisations can apply for a grant by downloading the Community Chest application form from the Blandford-based brewery’s website.
Anthony Woodhouse, chairman of Hall & Woodhouse, said: “Our
Community Chest Awards have been at the heart of our commitment to local communities since my cousin Mark set them up 25 years ago.”
To apply for the 2026 Community Chest Awards, fill in an application form at: hall-woodhouse.co.uk/ about-us/community-chest.
Applications close on Sunday 12 July. Successful applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application in November 2026, with an awards ceremony held in January 2027. The H&W Community Chest works in partnership with Dorset Community Foundation.
On a trip to Belfast, 86-year-old Derrick Lynas visited his primary school Belmont Public Elementary School, now a National Trust property, and was shown around the archives. Lynas, who now lives in Ashley Heath, came across a letter sent to every school child in 1946 and thought that it would bring back memories to some of our older readers.
The 2025 award winners and local civic leaders
Mayor praises successful book fair
The recently elected Mayor of Verwood, Cllr Simon Gibson, praised the organisers of a Spring Book Fair held in the local Memorial Hall on 23 May.
Organised by Tegan and Emily, the Verwood Book Fair raises money for local charities.
The mayor said: “Emily and Tegan have done a good job. It is lovely to see them inspiring young people to read more.
“There are some amazing authors in our local area and it’s great that they have the opportunity to display their talents here in Verwood.”
As well as being the place to meet popular local authors and buy signed copies of their books, there were several book-related stalls selling and promoting their wares.
A separate area packed with second-hand books attracted anyone wanting to buy books in good condition at bargain prices.
Tegan and Emily said: “Our second-hand book stall sales and other fundraising efforts behind the scenes are going towards raising money for local book projects, including a Verwood-based free book swap library.
“The next Verwood Book Fair will be on Saturday 17 October at Verwood Memorial Hall. We will have new stallholders as well as our second-hand stalls.”
Best-selling author Carol Cole attended the book fair © CatchBox 2026
Local author to attend Ferndown fete
Dorset author Janine Pulford will be signing copies of her latest book ‘Paws in the Flood’ at Ferndown Fete on the Field on 20 June in support of the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation (JTYAF).
A former magazine publisher, Janine said: “Part of the proceeds of book sales on the day will be donated to the charity, which I have supported for many years.”
Her husband Nick has also donated a range of home-grown plants including tomatoes, chillies and cucumbers to JTYAF to sell at the fete.
JTYAF’s Linda Thornton
said: “Janine and Nick have been wonderful friends of the foundation for many years, and we are incredibly grateful for their continued support.”
Pop along to the JTYAF stall at Fete on the Field, Ferndown on 20 June, 11am–5pm. There will also be ‘Hook a Duck’ with a guaranteed prize every time for children.
JTYAF was founded by Linda and Peter Thornton in 2008 in memory of their son, Lt John Thornton RM, who was killed in Afghanistan in the same year at the age of 22. The foundation offers scholarships and bursaries to help young people pursue their dreams.
Third term for mayor
Ferndown Town Council has chosen its mayor for the 2026/27 term.
On Wednesday 13 May, Ferndown Town Council elected Cllr Lawrence Wilson as the 46th Town Mayor of Ferndown at its Annual Council Meeting.
This will be Cllr Wilson’s third term as mayor, having served in the role in 2022/23 and 2025/26. He has been a town councillor since 2015.
During the meeting, Cllr Simon Cable was elected as deputy mayor, taking over the role from Cllr Philip Leach.
Cllr Wilson said: “It is a real privilege to be re-elected as Mayor of Ferndown. This will be my third term, and I feel extremely honoured. I look forward to continuing the important work of representing our community, promoting the town, and supporting local groups and residents.
“I am pleased to have Cllr Simon Cable as my deputy mayor. We have a great deal of
work to do in the year ahead, but I know he will be a great support. I would also like to thank the outgoing deputy mayor, Cllr Philip Leach, for all the help he has given me over the past year.”
Janine Pulford with JTYAF’s Peter Thornton and a variety of plants donated by Nick Pulford
The Mayor of Ferndown, Cllr Lawrence Wilson © Denise Nuttall
Starry Skies
By Mark Hardaker FRAS
For stargazers here in the South, June is a month of contrasts. The approach of the summer solstice on 21 June brings the shortest nights of the year, with true darkness lasting only a few hours. Yet, for those willing to linger in late twilight or rise early, the sky still offers a rewarding array of sights.
The month’s highlight is undoubtedly a striking planetary encounter low in the western evening sky. Throughout the first half of June, Venus dominates as the ‘evening star’, shining so brightly it is visible even before darkness falls. Around 9 June, Venus draws exceptionally close to Jupiter in a rare conjunction: the two appear separated by little more than the width of a fingertip at arm’s length. This pairing, visible shortly after sunset, is one of the most eye-catching celestial events of the year.
Adding to the spectacle is
the elusive Mercury. Around midmonth, it reaches its farthest distance from the Sun, making this one of the best opportunities of the year to spot the innermost planet. Around 15–17 June, observers may glimpse Mercury, Venus, Jupiter and a delicate crescent Moon grouped together in the twilight glow — a beautiful, if fleeting, alignment.
While the evenings are dominated by twilight, the later night skies reveal deeper treasures. By midnight, the rich star fields of the Milky Way begin to rise towards the southeast, with the constellations Sagittarius and Scorpius skimming low along the southern horizon. Under dark rural skies, sweep your binoculars in these regions to find stunning star clusters and nebulae.
The Moon also plays its part. A full Moon on 30 June will be a ‘micro moon’, appearing slightly smaller than average
due to its greater distance from Earth. Earlier in the month, the darker skies around the new Moon on 15 June provide the best opportunity for deep-sky observing.
Finally, June marks the beginning of noctilucent cloud season: ethereal, electric-blue wisps seen low in the northern sky after sunset. These highaltitude clouds are a uniquely summer phenomenon and are caused by reflections from ice particles high in the atmosphere. They are a delight to find. I saw them at Knowlton Church back in 2020, with the delightful comet NEOWISE providing added interest.
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.
Comet NEOWISE to the right and bright noctilucent clouds to the left, visible from Knowlton Church in July 2020
The power of partnerships
By David Sidwick | Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner
Strong partnerships which deliver real results are an underrated and underappreciated part of policing. To successfully tackle serious offences, we need effective partnerships with local and regional partners to deliver successful results and ensure victims are cared for. The value of these relationships is why I’d like to highlight a vital partnership delivering terrific results in Dorset.
The South West Regional Organised Crime Unit (SWROCU) plays a significant role in tackling serious and organised crime across multiple areas, including Dorset. Its work forms part of a strong, successful collaboration focused on intelligence-led policing at a regional level. The ROCU supports and enhances Dorset Police operations, providing specialist capabilities, focusing on high-harm and complex cases. Their key areas of focus include drug supply and county lines networks, child sexual abuse and exploitation, modern slavery and human trafficking, organised immigration crime, cyber crime, fraud and money laundering, as well as crime and corruption in our prisons.
In Dorset, high-profile cases involving SWROCU are linked to Operation Scorpion, and indeed, serious and organised drug crime. Through Operation Scorpion, Dorset Police works closely with neighbouring forces across the South West — Devon and Cornwall, Gloucestershire, Avon and Somerset and Wiltshire — alongside SWROCU and British Transport Police to disrupt county lines, smash the drug gangs and safeguard vulnerable people.
Recently, Dorset Police and SWROCU carried out 18 warrants, arrested 47 people, safeguarded 17 people, and seized 2.47g of heroin, £30,000 worth of cocaine and weapons including knives and a crossbow. These results show the power of this partnership. It’s not just through Operation Scorpion either that this joint work has yielded results. In April, a man and woman from
Wimborne were sentenced for drugs and money laundering offences following an investigation by SWROCU. Officers seized 1.5kg of cocaine, 400 grams of heroin, 500 grams of ketamine, 2kg of cannabis, approximately £20,000 in cash and a knuckleduster from the couple’s home, thanks to support from Dorset Police. Both received custodial sentences, meaning the community is free from the harm they were causing.
Another SWROCU investigation led to the jailing of a crime group who ran a drugs lab in Bournemouth. The five men, three from Bournemouth, were part of an organised crime group who supplied cocaine to areas across the UK including London, West Sussex, Cumbria, Avon and Somerset, Dorset, Devon, Cornwall and Hampshire. This case took tireless work from all involved, and I thank them for their relentless pursuit of this group.
The reality is that serious and organised crime does not respect county boundaries. It is sophisticated, mobile and often hidden, which is why this partnership approach is so important. SWROCU brings advanced capabilities, enhanced intelligence and coordinated action that allows Dorset Police to respond at scale and with precision. It is through this model that we can deliver impactful, multi-agency operations, bring dangerous offenders to justice and disrupt criminal networks operating both within and beyond Dorset.
This is what effective policing looks like: a strong local presence from Dorset Police, backed by regional strength. By continuing to invest in and support this partnership, we are ensuring that Dorset remains a hostile environment for organised crime, taking away the drugs, ill-gotten gains and ultimately the liberty of those who seek to harm us, and creating a safer place for everyone who lives, works and visits here.
Rotary race night raises £1,873
By Louisa Hiscock, Verwood Rotary Club
Our second Race Night in May was a great success, with all the excitement of the horse races, having a flutter and enjoying a licensed bar
Our thanks go to all who attended, our sponsors and everyone who supported club members in organising this event. We are delighted to confirm that £1,873 was raised to support club charities and projects, including our president’s charity, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. Club members have enjoyed fundraising to support this amazing service that saves lives every day.
Our current Rotary year comes to a close at the end of June and our recent AGM was an opportunity to reflect on what we have done over the last 12 months. This includes involvement in local, national and international projects. President Andy Maw is taking on a second year as president from July.
Rotary International’s theme for next year is ‘Create Lasting Impact’, and our club will aspire to achieve this in all we do.
There will no doubt be new club activities in the upcoming Rotary year, as well as old favourites like our Rustic Fayre on August Bank Holiday Monday. Plans are now well underway for this big community event at the end of the summer. If you would like to support this as a volunteer, there are many ways to get involved and we would love to hear from you. Contact us via our website or email secretary@verwoodrotary.org.uk.
Civic service in Wimborne
By Marilyn Barber | Photos © Viewpoint Magazine
Wimborne Minster Town Council held its annual Civic Thanksgiving Service on Sunday 10 May at the Minster church. This was preceded by a parade around the town comprising The Quarterjacks of Wimborne marching band, Wimborne Cadets, standard bearers, civic dignitaries and
the MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, Vikki Slade.
The service was led by the rector, The Rev Canon Andrew Rowland, and there were presentations by Millstream Disabled Theatre Group and Dorset Community Action, the chosen charities of the Mayor of Wimborne Minster, Cllr Jeff Hart.
Community spirit on display
Wimborne Minster residents, councillors and community organisations came together at Allendale House
on 12 May for the annual Parishioners’ Meeting.
It featured a series of short presentations from
town councillors alongside local organisations who have received community grant funding from Wimborne Minster Town Council.
The evening highlighted the range of support and activities available within the community, with presentations from groups including Wimborne Community Garden, Planet Wimborne, Friends of Wimborne Library, The Reef, Home-Start Wessex and Wimborne Food Bank.
The mayor’s chosen charities for the civic year,
Millstream Theatre and Dorset Community Action, also gave presentations during the evening.
Speaking after the event, the Mayor Cllr Jeff Hart said: “The community groups demonstrated their worth with many examples of the help provided. Without such groups, life would be much harder for many Wimborne residents. We have also beaten the target set for the mayor’s charities with well over £10,000 raised through many events.”
Civic dignitaries
The Quarterjacks of Wimborne
Wimborne Cadets
Happy 100th, Peggy!
A Ferndown resident celebrated her 100th birthday on 16 May.
To mark the milestone, Peggy Shepherd enjoyed a Crazy Hat Tea Party with her family and friends. They all wore an array of superbly decorated hats, from a huge teacup to a hat of fresh allotment vegetables.
Peggy also enjoyed a celebration with Arthritis Care in Ferndown, which she has been a member of for many years. They enjoyed music, tea and a cake donated by Jo and Norman Burden. The group meets on the first Saturday of the month at the day centre.
Peggy spent her childhood in Yeovil with her two sisters and a brother. In the Second World War, she joined the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force,
where she met her husband George who was in the RAF.
She has two children, Sue and Dave, seven grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Daughter Sue said: “We are all proud of our lovely, friendly Mum and Nan.
“She has had many hobbies, especially flower arranging and art, and is very keen on watercolours and pencil drawing, which she still pursues today in her own home in Ferndown.”
Peggy, holding a balloon, with members of Arthritis Care
Peggy at her Crazy Hat Tea Party
Charity of the Year
Bruce is always on the move
“Bruce surprised everyone from the very start,” shares his mum, Megan. “He breathed on his own for a week after he was born, then suddenly things changed and we were rushed to Southampton Hospital. Doctors found a large mass in his chest and after being flown by helicopter to Great Ormond Street Hospital, he was diagnosed with a benign teratoma (a rare tumour)
wrapped around a major vein leading to his heart.
“At just two weeks old, Bruce had open chest surgery to remove the tumour — signing the consent form is a feeling I’ll never forget. The operation saved his life, but it left Bruce with serious breathing complications — he now has a tracheostomy (a small opening in his neck into his windpipe) and he’s completely
dependent on a ventilator.
“We first heard about Julia’s House when Bruce was a couple of months old. We’ll be honest: the word ‘hospice’ scared us. We thought it only meant end of life, and that it wasn’t for families like ours. But after chats with the team, we understood what Julia’s House really is: practical, specialist support for seriously ill children and their families and a place where people don’t need a long explanation. They just ‘get it’.
“Julia’s House started visiting in April 2025, and because Bruce’s needs are so complex, the team needed specialist training. At first, Bruce found new faces tough (familiarity really matters for him) so we stayed close while he got used to the nurses. Now he’s the complete opposite: he smiles, waves, and blows kisses
when they leave. His respite sessions are full of painting, stories, songs and messy play.
“That support doesn’t just help Bruce. It helps all of us. It gives us time as a couple to grab a coffee, go for a swim, or simply sit together without counting battery life. And it matters for siblings too — our daughter Layla gets one-to-one time and fun activities where she can just be herself, not ‘the child in the background’.
“Bruce is now 23 months old and doing brilliantly. He’s bright, cheeky, and always on the move. We still live life on high alert, and the future may include more surgery, but we feel less alone. Julia’s House has become like extended family, and those few hours of respite make a bigger difference than we can ever properly explain.”
Bruce with a Julia’s House nurse © Phil Abraham
Still time to sponsor Mike’s mighty hike
Mike Andrews, known well in his role of Ferndown Town Crier and now aged 91, is taking part in the Jurassic Coast Mighty Hike on Saturday 4 July to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support.
He hopes to raise the fabulous sum of £2,000 and generous sponsors have pledged £1,355 already. Scan the QR code to show your support or head online to
mightyhikesfundraising. macmillan.org.uk/fundraising/ mikes-fundraising-page702.
Epic 650-mile hospice walk
A man from Fordingbridge has raised nearly £9,000 for charity by walking the 650mile South West Coast Path. James Hirst, 26, took on the challenge to raise funds for Salisbury Hospice, which cared for his mother in her final days.
Hirst set off from Poole Harbour, walking along the coastline to Land’s End in Cornwall then north to Minehead in Somerset. He reached the finish line on Monday 18 May, taking just 39 days to finish the epic hike.
After completing the walk, he said: “It’s been tough at times, but also an incredible experience. The support from people along the way has meant everything — complete strangers offering help, food, a place to stay. I didn’t expect that.”
In response to Hirst’s achievement, Nikki Spicer, chair of Salisbury Hospice Charity, said: “We are incredibly proud of what James has achieved. To take on a challenge of this scale in memory of his mum and raise such a significant amount is truly inspiring.”
HEAR YE, HEAR YE!
Ringwood to celebrate 800 years of local market
All are invited to celebrate the anniversary of Ringwood’s Royal Market Charter on Sunday 12 July. Read on to find out the full history of the market, and what you can look forward to at July’s celebration…
Christchurch Road in Ringwood circa 1954 © Ronald Searle
800 years of Ringwood Market
The granting of the Market Charter 800 years ago was a defining moment in Ringwood’s history that continues to shape its identity to this day
The original grant to hold a market on Wednesdays was made in March 1226 in the reign of Henry III. It should have been confirmed when he reached his majority but was not until 15 May 1553 in the reign of Edward VI.
This gave the town the right to hold two fairs a year on 30 November and 29 June. With the change of the calendar in 1752, these dates were altered to 11 December and 10 July.
The fairs were held until just prior to the Second World War and the weekly market has been held continuously since 1226.
A livestock market ran as part of the Wednesday market, and many may remember the cattle market in The Furlong that ran until 1988.
Lord of the Manor
Edward Morant, Lord of the Manor of Ringwood, held the Market Charter until his death earlier this year.
The Morant family, who previously owned farming estates around Ringwood and Brockenhurst, have held the Market Charter since the 1790s. Edward Morant’s grandson will become the next holder of the charter.
Edward was a farmer who was born in Brockenhurst and lived in the New Forest all his life. He studied agriculture at Trinity College, Cambridge, and subsequently gained work experience on farms in Canada and the Lulworth Estate before returning home to the family’s farm in the New Forest. He was very hands-on, working on the farm every day, even into his 80s.
Alongside his farming activities, he supervised Ringwood Market every Wednesday for over 50 years. He was seen as a key part of the community in Ringwood and knew all the stallholders well. He often stayed on after the market for a coffee and a chat in the church hall, where he always sat in the same chair. He was a strong supporter of Ringwood and wished to see it thrive as a market town.
Edward Morant, Lord of the Manor of Ringwood Chicken pens in the market
Market Place with cattle circa 1910. On the left, there is a cart belonging to Sampson’s Stores and further along is the Red Lion. On the right are the original White Hart and the Corn Exchange.
More Ringwood history
The name Ringwood was recorded in the 10th century as Runcwuda and Rimucwuda. Wuda means a ‘wood’; rimuc may be derived from rima meaning ‘border’ or ‘rim’, hence ‘border wood’. The name may refer to Ringwood’s position on the fringe of the New Forest. However, in 1607 historian William Camden claimed that the original name was Regne-wood, the Regni being an ancient people of Britain. A watermill in Ringwood is mentioned in the Domesday Book and later there were two. Famous (or infamous) residents James Scott, 1st Duke of Monmouth, led a rebellion against his uncle, King James II, in 1685. After the rebellion failed, Scott was arrested near Horton and taken to a house now named Monmouth House in West Street. It was there that he wrote a letter to James II begging forgiveness. This was not granted, and he was executed after a trial in the Tower of London.
Maxwell Armfield, born in Ringwood in 1881, was a painter, illustrator and writer. William Alexander, a leading activist within the Communist Party of Great
Britain, was born in Ringwood in June 1910. He commanded the British Battalion of the International Brigades during the Spanish Civil War.
Julia Lockwood, an actress, was born in Ringwood in 1941. She appeared in numerous plays in the West End in the 1960s and 1970s.
TV series location
The swimming pool, sports hall and exterior scenes of the 1990s BBC television comedy series ‘The Brittas Empire’ were filmed at Ringwood Health and Leisure Centre, at the time known as Ringwood Recreation Centre. The home of Mr and Mrs Brittas was filmed at 47 Northfield Road, and Laura Lancing’s house was filmed at 2 (The Knole) Highfield Road. Various other buildings in the town featured, including 1 High Street, which appeared as Le Jollie Chocolatier.
Ringwood Meeting House and History Centre
Ringwood Meeting House is now the only dissenting Meeting House in Hampshire to survive from the period before 1800 in a virtually unaltered state.
The survival of its original box pews has gained the building its Grade II* listing. Built in 1727, visitors are welcome for refreshments and a chat, to browse the latest exhibition or research its extensive archives of Ringwood’s history. For details, visit ringwoodmeetinghouse.org.
Church of St Peter and St Paul
A church in Ringwood is mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086. It was rebuilt in the 13th century and survived until 1853, when it was completely knocked down and rebuilt. The church contains a 15th-century monumental brass of John Prophete, Dean of Hereford and York. The church is open daily from 10am to 3.30pm.
Something you might not know…
The town had a thriving knitting industry. In the 1850s, it became famous for its woollen gloves, knitted in either cotton or wool four-ply and on thick needles. The brightly patterned, durable gloves were knitted by local women using a special stretchy textured stitch. Ringwood gloves were knitted commercially until after WWII.
Use or lose it, warn market traders
By Luke Graham | Photos © Viewpoint Magazine
As Ringwood prepares for the market’s 800th anniversary, what are things like for today’s stallholders?
Ahead of the 800th anniversary celebrations, I popped into Ringwood on an overcast Wednesday in May to see what the market is like today.
Dotted along Market Place were around a dozen stalls, selling everything from cakes and honey to pet accessories, clothes, home essentials and jewellery.
As well as stallholders who have been selling at the market for years, there were also several new faces who had only recently started selling at Ringwood Market.
Charlie Vickery of TLC Bakes started the week before my visit, selling a range of delicious-looking cakes. What
were her impressions so far?
“It’s really great, it’s really popular,” she said.
“The weather makes a huge difference — a bit of sun helps.”
Charlie sells at several different markets around the area through the week. What sets Ringwood Market apart?
“Ringwood is a really nice community, with lovely people.”
Rose from pet supplies stall Animal Avenue also had positive things to say about the market. She and her partner run an award-winning pet shop on Southampton Road in Ringwood and joined the market to advertise the store
as well as sell their wares.
She said: “We’ve been doing this for three weeks now, and it is really good fun. It’s nice, it’s a bit of community spirit.”
The market has clearly changed over the decades (and centuries) and is not as big as it used to be. What does Rose think the market means to the town?
“I think the market is important to the town, but I think the town doesn’t like it as much now, because it’s not what it once was,” she said.
“But the only way it’s going to be like that again is if people come here and support it.
“There needs to be more stalls. I’ve got the shop
up the road and I’ve been coming down to the market every Wednesday, and it is slowly getting bigger. When the weather is nicer, more people will come down here.
“I do think the locals like the market, but they want to see more from it.”
Another stallholder who was more critical of the market was New Forest Marque ambassador Geoff Barnes of New Forest Cider and New Forest Honey. He has been selling at marketplaces since 1980 and has been part of Ringwood Market for four years.
“The problem here is traffic. We can’t move the bus garage. And there’s not enough
signage up to tell people there’s a market on,” he said.
Unlike other markets around the area, Market Place is not pedestrianised during market hours, so vehicles and buses regularly drive through the middle of the market, which can be off-putting.
Geoff urged the people of Ringwood to support the market.
“They ought to support it more. The market can’t be changed from Wednesdays because of the charter. The council should do more to promote it. We also have competition from other markets on Saturdays and Fridays.”
John from New Forest Bacon and Local Meats was also critical, especially of the traffic through the market. He visits many markets around the area but admits Ringwood Market is the quietest.
“We’d like to see more traders and less traffic. That would be a big improvement,” he said.
John added that he felt the market had declined, which is a shame considering its history.
“800 years. This market is steeped in history. That’s something to treasure.”
Ringwood Market may have existed for 800 years, but it’s important
not to be complacent and the stallholders have clear concerns, especially about traffic. Unless these challenges are overcome,
there’s no guarantee it will thrive for another 800 years. Ringwood Market is held every Wednesday from 8am to 3pm.
All sorts of goods are sold at the market
Charlie Vickery has recently started selling at the market
John from New Forest Bacon and Local Meats says the market is steeped in history
Get ready to celebrate
By Ringwood Town Council
To commemorate this remarkable milestone, Ringwood Town Council will host a special one-off Market Charter Celebration on Sunday 12 July, honouring eight centuries of trading heritage, community spirit, and local tradition.
This commemorative event has been designed to celebrate history while offering a vibrant, modern-day experience for residents and visitors of all ages.
Throughout the day, the town centre and surrounding green spaces will come alive with a variety of stalls, performers and interactive experiences representing the history of the market throughout the years, supporting the long-standing tradition of independent trade that defines historic market towns like Ringwood.
Farmyard Circus will be providing two wonderful farminspired acrobatic displays, kindly supported by Culture in Common. This is a must see for families and children, alongside
an array of live entertainment on the stage.
Throughout the marketplace, visitors can enjoy roaming performances from Steamship Circus, sponsored by The Furlong shopping centre, creating a lively and atmospheric backdrop to the day.
A key focus of the celebrations is providing a full day of familyfriendly entertainment.
A special petting zoo experience, provided by Riverside Lakes and sponsored by the Rotary Club of Ringwood, will be available outside the Old Cinema in the marketplace, giving families the chance to meet friendly animals including goats, pigs, piglets, ducks and chicks — this is sure to be a highlight for younger visitors.
As visitors explore the event, they will also find traditional village games hosted by local Scouts and Brownies groups. Visitors can play the games using a recreated Ringwood pound note. After each game has been played, you will collect a sticker on the back of the note and once completed receive a special prize from the merchandise stall.
The Ringwood pound notes will be distributed by a selection of local Ringwood businesses running up to the event.
Visitors can also have fun at the funfair at the Bickerley. Featuring a wide selection of family-favourite rides and continuing into the evening, this will provide an exciting and fitting finale to a landmark day in Ringwood’s history.
The Ringwood 800th Market Charter Celebration is more than an event; it is a tribute to the town’s identity, resilience, and enduring community spirit. By bringing together local organisations, businesses, performers, and residents, it highlights the connections that have shaped Ringwood over eight centuries.
We extend our sincere thanks to everyone involved in making this historic celebration possible, and we look forward to welcoming the community to take part in this once-in-a-lifetime event.
Going, going, gone!
-Advertisement feature-
Ringwood Auctions is proud to be conducting a charity auction as part of Ringwood Town Council’s celebrations of the 800th anniversary of the Market Charter on Sunday 12 July.
This landmark event will raise funds for two community causes: Greyfriars Community Centre and Moyles Court Wildlife centre, whilst also commemorating a rich past of holding auctions in the Market Place.
Some exciting lots and unique experiences will be available for bidding. Further details of the catalogue will be announced soon.
A rich and storied history
-Advertisement feature-
By Meesons and Spurlings
In 1226, Henry III granted a Royal Charter to the Lord of the Manor of Ringwood, giving him the privilege to hold a market every Wednesday morning.
The charter would say on what day the market should be held, and no other nearby market town was allowed to hold one on the same day. No charter meant no market; hence the market has been very important to Ringwood in its continued development over the years. Ringwood is still holding markets in the same place on the same day some 800 years later.
At that time, the supreme legislation was the Magna Carta of 1225 (the original was written in 1215, but the 1225 issue is the version that officially became part of English law). The issue of the Magna Carta was of fundamental importance in the development of the common law legal system.
The original Magna Carta of 1215 is no longer in force; however, three clauses from the later 1227 issue remain active in English law and continue to protect the rights of the Church, ancient liberties in respect of the City of London, and the fundamental rights of a fair trial.
Although Meesons and Spurlings Solicitors have a rich and storied history, we can only trace it back to 1728 — not quite as long as Ringwood’s 800-year-old market charter. However, we remain ready to help and assist you with your legal affairs.
A painful subject
By Julian Hewitt | Fordingbridge Museum
I went to the dentist the other day to have a chipped tooth repaired. Despite the need for drilling, I had the filling without an injection, and the whole procedure took about 10 minutes.
This was very different from my childhood visits to the dentist. I would invariably have to endure a painful injection or, worse still, an anaesthetic that involved a foul-smelling rubber face mask. These unpleasant memories reoccur every time I see a bowl of decayed teeth in a display in Fordingbridge Museum.
Dentistry has been practised since early in human existence. Very recently, a single molar was discovered in Siberia with evidence that a narrow stone tool had been used to carry out root canal treatment. This shows that Neanderthals used stone drills to treat cavities nearly 60,000 years ago. In early Egyptian and Greek civilisations, tooth extractions and attempts at fillings have been discovered. In late medieval times, when dental decay was blamed on a tooth worm, the main
dental activity was the use of extraction to cure toothache. This was often done by barber surgeons. In 1092, Pope Cyril II of Alexandria instituted a new grooming style for monks to be carried out by barbers, who were also allowed to perform minor operations involving blood. These would include the pulling out of troublesome teeth. Barbers would advertise their services using a red and white pole representing a blood-stained bandage. This survives today as a way of indicating hair-cutting rather than surgical services.
It was not until the 18th and 19th centuries that dentistry became more scientific. In 1728, Pierre Fauchard produced a book entitled ‘The Surgeon Dentist’ about caring for and treating teeth. He wrote about the use of fillings to treat dental decay and the use of prostheses (dentures and false teeth). He also identified that tartaric acid from sugar caused dental decay. He encouraged the use of a range of dental instruments, often adapted from those used by watchmakers and jewellers.
He also wrote about the use of gold wire braces to correct crooked teeth. All this has earned him the title of “The Father of Modern Dentistry.”
Another dental landmark was the development of dental drills. In 1790, John Greenwood converted his mother’s spinning wheel to invent the first foot-operated drill. In 1955, a Swedish dentist invented a highspeed air-driven drill.
Other medical advances include the use of X-rays — which were first used in 1896 in Germany — and pain relief. In 1844, the gas nitrous oxide was used as an anaesthetic in conjunction with ether and chloroform. Injectable cocaine was first used as a local anaesthetic to dull pain in 1884.
In 1929, fluoride was identified as being linked to caries (cavity) resistance and has since been added to water as a preventative measure in many countries. The link between poor oral health and other illnesses has recently been established.
It was not until the Dentists Act of 1921 that anyone practising dentistry in Britain had to be qualified and registered. Today, dentists must undergo at least six years of intensive training.
If you visit Fordingbridge Museum, you will see a bowl full of human teeth in various states of decay. But where did they come from?
There used to be a dentist’s office in Bridge Street, but this closed in the 1940s and the premises were converted into a flat. The new owner complained about the drains; on investigation, several buckets of teeth were found to be blocking them. The dentist had simply disposed of them down the drains. It is a sample of these discarded teeth that are in the bowl in the museum.
The introduction of fluoride into water, the use of toothpaste, and the understanding of gum disease, combined with other improvements in dental care, means that most children growing up today will hopefully not have the tooth problems exhibited by the museum’s collection of teeth.
Column by Fordingbridge Museum is sponsored by Adrian Dowding
A dentist had his premises on the first floor of this building in Bridge Street
Teeth on display in Fordingbridge Museum
Events
Details were correct at the time of going to print. Send information about your events to newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk.
17 June 10am–4pm
The Treehouse, Merritown Lane, Hurn, Christchurch, BH23 6DT open under NGS. 17 June 7.30pm Merley Townswomen’s Guild meets at the Community Hall, Harrier Drive, Merley.
18 June 7pm–8.30pm
Bourne 2 Sing male voice choir perform at Access Dorset, The Bridge at Chaseside in Littledown. For tickets, email enquiries@ accessdorset.org.uk.
20 June 11am–5pm Ferndown Fete on the Field at King George V Playing Field. Free entry.
20 June 7.30pm–9.30pm Colehill Community Choir Summer Concert at St Michael’s Church, raising funds for Wimborne Community Garden Centre.
20 June
Harry Paye Pirate Day on Poole Quay.
26–28 June
Roads to Rail Steam Rally at Corfe Castle.
27 June 11am–4pm Global Fair at Walford Mill, Wimborne. Free event.
27–28 June 11am–5pm
Shake and Stir Music Festival and Armed Forces Weekend at Fisherman’s Walk, Southbourne. Free entry.
27–28 June
Poole Folk Festival on Poole Quay.
28 June 2pm–4.30pm
Cream Tea, Family Fun & Midsummer Music at St Michael’s Church, Colehill.
30 June 7.30pm
West Parley Gardening Club meets at the MS Centre, Church Lane, West Parley. Bryan Madders will talk on salvias and flowering perennials.
1 July 7.30pm–9.30pm
Wimborne Wine Society meets at Wimborne Community Centre.
1 July 10.30am–11.30am
Reading Friends: Reading Your Way at Ferndown Library.
1 July 2pm–4pm
Lytchett & Upton Floral Club host Fleur White demonstrating ‘Musical Memories’ at Lytchett Matravers Village Hall, BH16 6DF.
3 July 7.30pm
Ferndown and District
Historical Society meets at The Barrington Centre.
3–4 July
Upton Park Country Festival.
4 July 11am–4pm
Summer market at The Langton Arms, Tarrant Monkton, Blandford Forum, DT11 8RX.
4 July 2pm–4pm
Ferndown Arthritis and Friendship Club meets at Ferndown Plus Day Centre. Call 03303 112793 for details.
4 July 7.30pm for 8pm
Film showing at Fordingbridge Town Hall. Episodes from ‘The Chosen’. Free refreshments. Free tickets from fordingbridgechurches. eventbrite.com, or The Branch, 1 High Street or AVCM Charity Shop, 52 High Street, Fordingbridge.
4–5 July 10am–4pm
Quarterjack Quilters of Wimborne Patchwork and Quilting Exhibition at the Allendale Centre.
6 July 10.30am
Reading Friends meets at Wimborne Library.
6 July 7.15pm for 7.30pm
Wimborne Gardening Club meets at St Catherine’s Church Hall, Wimborne for a talk by Christopher Brown on ‘Gardening the World’.
6 July 7pm–9.30pm
Bournemouth Bluebird Jazz Club meets at Bluebird Social Club, 4 Ham Lane, Longham, BH22 9DP (opposite Haskins garden centre).
8 July 7.30pm
Canford and Merley WI meets at Merley Community Centre, Harrier Drive. Rose White to present ‘Dogtors’, a talk on medical detection dogs. For details, call Hazel on 07780 705702.
11 July 9am–1pm
Scouts car wash at St Michael’s Church car park, Colehill, with refreshments available while you wait. No booking required. Fundraising for Colehill Scouts and Church.
11 July 12noon–4pm
Westival at Fryer Field, West Moors.
11 July, 7.30pm
Grange Choral Society at Christchurch Priory. Tickets from christchurchpriory.org/ services-and-events, or call 01202 143867 Tuesday to Thursday 10am–2pm, or on the door.
12 July 10am–4pm
South Western Model Railway Club hosts a Model Rail Showcase at Cobhams Sports & Social Club, Merley Park Road, BH21 3DA. For details, call 07751 257666.
13 July 7.30pm
St Aldhelms Orchestra concert at St Aldhelms Church, BH13 6BT. Free entry with retiring collection.
14 July 7.30pm
Verwood and District Horticultural Society meets at Verwood Memorial Hall. Details on verwoodhorticulturalsociety.co.uk or call Ollie on 07508 577114.
14 July 7.30pm–9pm
Fordingbridge Musical Theatre Choir Summer Showcase at The Forde Inn featuring songs from ‘Footloose’, ‘Hamilton’, and more. For details, email olivia@singspacechoir. com. Book via ticketsource.co.uk/ fordingbridge.
REVIEW
We Will Rock You P & P Productions, Lighthouse, Poole
By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk
I’m not usually lost for words, but I am in danger of running out of superlatives to describe this musical. In all my years of reviewing, this was one of the best productions I’ve ever seen.
You could argue that with a story and script by Ben Elton, music and lyrics by Queen and original vocal score by Brian May, Roger Taylor and Mike Dixon, it was always going to be a winner. However, it’s a tricky one to stage and needs a hugely talented cast.
It is a dystopian story, which nevertheless is uplifting. Earth in the future is controlled by an all-powerful corporation. Musical instruments are forbidden and rock music has been erased.
The main cast were sensational with voices that soared into the air.
Adam Davis as Galileo and Chloe Payne as Scaramouche are the duo working to break free. Their voices and stage presence were stunning.
Libby Russell, who epitomised evil as Killer Queen, and Jamie Thomson as chief of police Khashoggi dominated the stage.
This was a huge production with 48 members of the full company, 16 Teen Queens and 11 featured Bohemians, all of whom acted and sung with such consummate skill.
Of course, the music of Queen is memorable, and band conductor Alastair Hume and the musicians deserved a standing ovation.
Director Claire CambleHutchins deserves numerous accolades for pulling this all together.
PREVIEW Shrek the Musical Wimborne Musical Theatre
Society, Tivoli Theatre
The giant green ogre from DreamWorks’ classic 2001 film will be live on stage this June at the Tivoli Theatre, when Wimborne Musical Theatre Society stages its next major musical production.
‘Shrek the Musical’ tells the story of a grumpy but loveable ogre’s hilarious adventure to rescue the feisty Princess Fiona and reclaim his swamp. Along the way, he’s joined by the fasttalking Donkey, faces off with the villainous Lord Farquaad, and discovers that true love and friendship really does come in all shapes and sizes.
Director Duncan Trew, said: “We are delighted to be bringing this iconic
and uplifting story to life in Wimborne and it’s fantastic to be working alongside such a gifted cast and crew. This extends to our two junior cast teams — local young performers who are truly shining in their roles and are sure to steal the spotlight. Rehearsals have been an absolute joy, and we cannot wait for audiences to share in the fun.”
The show will be performed from 25–27 June with evening performances Thursday to Saturday, plus a matinee performance on the Saturday. Book through the box office on 01202 885566 or online at tivoliwimborne.co.uk.
REVIEW
And Then There Were None
Wimborne Drama Productions, Tivoli Theatre
By Marilyn Barber
Decide to put on an Agatha Christie play, cast 11 talented actors and build an impressive stage set and you’re onto a winner — and this production certainly was.
Although the audience clearly knew the story (the title is a bit of a giveaway), there is a choice of endings. Which one would director Chris Durham choose?
Ten strangers arrive on an isolated island, each of whom hides a secret past. Death stalks every one of them, except the boatman played by Cameron Elliott.
Colin Pile and Michelle Barter teamed well together as the butler and housekeeper, whilst James Turrall epitomised the playboy, Anthony Marston.
As Captain Philip Lombard, Andy Gill interacted well with the other characters, particularly Sali Pike as Vera Claythorne. Both put in authentic performances.
A member of the company since 1984, Tony Feltham has the knack of bringing a special something to every performance and this he did in the role of a corrupt police officer, going from a South African to London accent with skill.
Michael Mackey had to run through a gamut of emotions as General Mackenzie, as did Richard Scotman as Dr Armstrong. Both succeeded admirably.
Judy Garrett was perfect as the judgmental spinster.
The role of Sir Lawrence Wargrave gave Stuart Glossop the chance to display his impressive talent, dominating the action.
Make sure to get tickets for their next play: ‘Kind Hearts and Coronets’ from 15–17 October.
Get closer to nature
-Advertisement feature-
Looking for an unforgettable experience? Then visit Liberty’s Owl, Raptor and Reptile Centre this summer.
Based near Ringwood, the centre offers the chance to see birds of prey in flight and learn more about all sorts of reptiles. There is a play area for children and a gift shop full of souvenirs. Visit the Chilkat Café for food and drinks or bring your own picnic to enjoy while watching the flying displays.
Your visit also supports the centre’s conservation work, including the rescue, rehabilitation and release of wild and injured birds of prey, and a breeding programme to support some of the planet’s most endangered species.
To plan your next day trip, visit libertyscentre.com.
A special thanks to Burley’s Home Care for sponsoring puzzle zone
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 four 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.
School fights to save lollipop lady
Ferndown Middle School is in danger of losing its lollipop lady Sarah Middleton, whose role will finish at the end of the summer term.
Headteacher Grant Hopkins, who is leading the fight for her retention, said: “Sarah does an incredible job and everyone was aghast when we learned that she would not be with us from September.
“I have stood on the road with her in the morning and watched her at work, and also seen the dangers.
“There is a great deal of traffic and despite there being two zebra crossings, some cars just will not stop.
“We see more 4x4 vehicles and this means drivers are less likely to be able to see children right in front of them.
How many miles has your car done?
UK drivers are keeping their cars for longer, according to new research showing that over 4.3 million cars have more than 100,000 miles on the clock.
That means 10 per cent of the 42.5 million cars on UK roads have high mileage.
The research comes from a Freedom of Information request to the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency and is based on mileage recorded at MOT tests
conducted between 1 January and 31 December 2025.
Once a car has passed the 100,000 mile mark, it is likely to be out of warranty and its components may be at risk of breaking or needing replacing.
However, advances in technology mean that a well-maintained and regularly serviced car could reach at least 150,000 or even 200,000 miles before needing to be scrapped.
“Cars sometimes backup over the crossing and it requires someone like Sarah to enable safe crossing.
Middleton, 53, who has been the school lollipop lady for 18 months, said: “I receive a lot of abuse from drivers, some of whom just don’t want to stop — the zebra crossings don’t stop them.
“It really can get very
dangerous and when you have small children on scooters you can easily see how an accident could happen.”
Grant Hopkins with Sarah Middleton
Wear your seat belt, warn police
In just one week, Dorset Police found 172 drivers committing offences including no seat belts and using mobile phones.
The drivers were issued with a Traffic Offence Report (TOR) by roads policing officers and National Highways during targeted patrols across Dorset between Monday 27 April and Friday 1 May.
Offenders included 80 drivers or passengers with no seatbelt, 59 motorists using a mobile phone, eight offences
of driving without due care and attention, four drivers with insecure loads, four with an expired MOT, three not in proper control of their vehicle, three for no insurance and two for driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence.
There were also three arrests for drink or drug driving offences and four vehicles were seized.
During the week, two officers were reportedly assaulted and a police motorcyclist was also driven into by another vehicle.
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Inspector Lee Turner, of the Roads Policing Team, said: “There are still some motorists who think it is okay to drive while engaging in dangerous behaviours, such as using a mobile phone. If you are distracted for just a second, this can lead to very serious and fatal consequences.
“We are asking everyone to think about their driving behaviour and to make sure they
are not endangering themselves and other road users. Thank you to the majority of people who use our roads in Dorset safely.”
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “Every death on our roads is one too many. Every driver, passenger, or pedestrian hurt in a road traffic collision is one person too many, and so improving road safety remains a key priority for me.”
Claims for any error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement must be made within 10 days of publication to the Administration Department.
Advertisers are requested to check their advertisements after the first insertion. The Publisher will not be responsible for any errors on subsequent insertions, which have not been advised to them. Cancellation of an advertisement must be advised
The price of fuel has rocketed, and so it could be tempting to adopt spurious methods that you’ve heard will save fuel.
Five fuel-saving myths Drive smarter with the latest KGM hybrid SUVs
However, GEM Motoring Assist has some words of warning against ‘fuelsaving tricks’ that can do more harm than good.The road safety organisation says it’s important for drivers to know what advice is good and what is not.
Here are five common myths and the truth behind them:
1. Coasting downhill in neutral saves fuel: modern engines automatically cut fuel when you stay in gear while decelerating. Coasting reduces control and is unsafe.
2. Avoid air-con at all costs: turning the air-conditioning off occasionally is fine, but never running it means seals can dry out to leave a less efficient system long-term.
3. Warm up your engine before driving: idling wastes fuel and today’s engines warm up best when driven gently soon after starting. 4. Over-inflate tyres and keep them ‘harder’ than recommended: over-inflation reduces grip and increases wear, so always use the recommended pressure.
5. Fill the fuel tank only half-way to save weight: the difference is negligible, while more frequent refuelling costs time and may lead to rushed, unsafe stops.
-Advertisement feature-
At August Motors in Salisbury, drivers can now discover the latest generation of KGM hybrid SUVs, combining impressive fuel efficiency with standout value and practicality.
The new KGM Actyon and KGM Torres have been designed for motorists who want the space and comfort of an SUV, alongside lower running costs and modern hybrid technology.
Both models deliver bold styling, generous levels of equipment, and the versatility needed for everyday driving, family life, and longer journeys alike. As fuel efficiency becomes an increasingly important consideration for drivers, the Actyon and Torres hybrids offer attractive alternatives without compromising on comfort or capability.
With competitive pricing and strong specification as standard, KGM’s hybrid range continues to offer excellent value for money. Visit August Motors in Salisbury to explore the KGM Actyon and Torres Hybrids.
Choosing the right garden tools
By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk
Using the right tools for the right job ensures efficiency, safety, and high-quality results, minimising wasted time and preventing injuries
Never is this truer than when it comes to gardening, as the diverse and unusable items littering my garden shed would verify.
So, what are the essential tools for your garden?
The most basic are a hand trowel, secateurs (my very favourite item), a spade and a fork.
A rake, a hoe, a watering can and a hose are also crucial for maintenance, whilst a wheelbarrow helps with moving materials.
If you have shrubs or trees that need pruning, loppers are vital — particularly extendable ones with ratchet mechanisms.
To remove weeds from pathways and patios, a weed puller with steel claws and an injector mechanism can ensure that you don’t strain your back.
Gardening gloves are also important, although I do know of some people who like to feel the soil in their hands.
And you need more than one kind.
Snug-fitting, lightweight cotton gloves with nitrilecoated fingertips are best for weeding and potting, whilst leather gauntlets with long cuffs are necessary for pruning roses and brambles.
For some reason, I always wear through the fingertips of the left-hand glove, although I am right-handed. I need to find someone who destroys the right hands, so we can put our spare gloves together!
To protect your knees, a multi-function garden kneeler not only lets you garden from multiple positions, it can have pockets for drinks and tools.
We had ‘No Mow May’ and we are being encouraged to extend that into June, but eventually you will need a mower, and here the choice is between electric, cordless and petrol machines.
Corded mowers suit most garden sizes as you can mow for as long as you like without worrying about topping up the fuel or recharging the battery.
If you don’t have access to an outdoor power source or have a larger garden where an extension cable simply is not practical, then a cordless lawnmower could be perfect for you.
Petrol lawnmowers are best suited to tackle larger gardens, overgrown grass and more difficult mowing conditions. Happy gardening!
Wimborne in Bloom open gardens
Looking for inspiration for your next garden project?
Then pay a visit to Wimborne Minster on Sunday 28 June from 11am to 5pm.
A total of 19 gardens will be open in and around the town for Wimborne in Bloom Open Gardens Day.
Entry cost is £10, simply pay in cash at the first garden you visit. All proceeds go towards the floral displays around the town.
There will be maps in all the major car parks on the
day of the event showing the location of the gardens.
The gardens open are: 109 Merley Ways; 11c Oakley Hill; ‘Trumpeters’, 25 West Street; 6 and 41 Julian’s Road; 2 and 6 Victoria Place; ‘Serles House’, 47 Victoria Road; 4 Redcotts Road; Wimborne Community Garden, School Lane; 10 Elizabeth Road; 47 Blind Lane; 17 and 24 West Borough; 6 Rowlands Hill; 34 Park Lane; ‘Pencoed’, Furzehill; 6 Smugglers Lane; and 1 Olivers Road.
Perfect patios
By Luke Graham
With summer upon us, homeowners will be wanting to spend more time outdoors in the garden
The patio is the perfect place to relax, whether that’s enjoying a summer lunch, basking in the sun with a good book, or hosting friends for a drink in the warmer, lighter evenings.
If you’re considering giving your patio a new look and upgrading it in time for late summer, here is some expert advice from Flooring Superstore.
“We’re seeing a real appetite for outdoor areas that feel like an extension of the home, somewhere you can relax and entertain over the summer months,” says Alex Heslop, trend expert at Flooring Superstore.
“Refreshing your outdoor tiles is a simple yet impactful way to instantly elevate patios, balconies and terraces — while also adding long-term value to the home. But there are a few key considerations to make before choosing your new outdoor flooring.”
According to Alex, tiles are a great way to add structure to your garden, letting you create defined areas for eating, lounging or using a barbecue.
He adds: “Choose tiles which complement your interior flooring. Large
format tiles in neutral tones are a good option as they work with most indoor flooring designs and can make your garden feel like a true extension of your home. It’s about creating a cohesive flow between indoor and outdoor spaces.”
But what type of tiles should you use? Alex recommends choosing low maintenance materials.
“Outdoor tiles have come a long way in recent years, and offer a contemporary, low maintenance solution — giving the high-end aesthetic without the upkeep.
“Porcelain options in particular are gaining popularity due to their durability, weather resistance and slip-resistant finishes, meaning they require a lot less upkeep than alternative materials such as wooden decking, so are a great choice for the often unpredictable British climate.”
When picking tiles, it’s not just about their shape or colour. Also think about the
size of tile you want for your garden.
Alex says: “Large format tiles are a great way to make compact outdoor spaces seem larger and more premium. Fewer grout lines and a more seamless finish create a more minimal aesthetic and a sense of space.”
However, smaller tiles can be useful for adding detail or creating curves.
How to keep your tiles looking tidy?
Your patio tiles need regular cleaning to keep looking their best. First, scrape away any weeds growing between the tiles, then use a brush to sweep away loose dirt and leaves. Fill a bucket with warm, soapy water, then use a brush to gently scrub dirt off the tiles. Finally, use a hose to wash away the dirt. You may need to buy a cleaning solution for stubborn dirt or to clean the grout between the tiles.
Larger tiles mean fewer grout lines to clean and a more seamless finish © Flooring Superstore
WINDOW REPAIRS
WINDOW TINTING
NEWS IN BRIEF
Election results
No party took overall control in the recent Hampshire County Council elections. The Conservatives won 27 seats, with 28 per cent of the vote, the Lib Dems 26 seats with 25 per cent of the votes and Reform UK 20 seats and 27 per cent of the vote. The Green Party, Labour, an Independent, Whitehill and Bordon Community Party and Community Campaign each gained one seat. Turnout was 45 per cent.
New chairman for NFDC
Cllr Dave Penny, who represents the Totton North Ward, was elected as the new chairman of New Forest District Council on 18 May 2026. He has been a member of the council since May 2023. As well as chairing meetings, Cllr Penny will represent the district at civic events.
puzzle zone Solutions
