Established Over 35 Years Mid Apr 2016
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VIEWPOINT
Volume 40, Issue 6
VERWOOD RINGWOOD FORDINGBRIDGE WEST MOORS WIMBORNE ASHLEY HEATH ST IVES, ALDERHOLT
ERIN IS
Carnival Queen
Three Verwood ‘royals’ will head the town’s carnival procession on 30 May. All eyes will be on 15-year-old Erin along with her princesses Cordelia, aged 9 and Luci, aged 10 as they lead the parade around the town on Bank Holiday Monday. Once the carnival located off Crane Drive is opened, entertainment will include a funfair, the Poole Field Gun Display Team, the Solent Dog Display Team, the Mere Down Falconry display, Meridian Marching Band and Punch and Judy.
L-R Cordelia, Erin and Luci
take one it’s
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VIEWPOINT Volume 40 • Issue 6 • April 2016 MAGS4DORSET HelloReaders Ben Pulford managing director design@mags4dorset.co.uk
Nick Pulford company secretary accounts4dorset@btconnect.com
News Desk Janine Pulford editor editorial@mags4dorset.co.uk Liz Turner assistant editor liz@mags4dorset.co.uk
Design Louis Pulford design director louispulford@brightboxdesigns.co.uk
Daniel Lee designer design4dorset@btconnect.com
Advertising Mark Beechey account manager mark@mags4dorset.co.uk Russell Harness account manager russell@mags4dorset.co.uk
Airport security – it is one of the things that we have to go through now when we fly anywhere. There is the inevitable queue, the remembering to bring a sealable plastic bag for liquids below 100ml, having to take off belts, shoes, jewellers and anything else likely to set the alarms off and making sure your hand baggage hasn’t got any banned items in it. I recently took four flights within a week because of a family emergency. Despite my best efforts I was stopped three times. My belt was a problem, I had too many bottles in the plastic bag, my daughter was stopped because she had a bottle of dry shampoo which security staff insisted was liquid – bit of a mystery that one. I’ve even found the rules are not the same at every airport – my hairdryer has to be checked at Manchester but not at Bournemouth. By my last flight I had got it right and walked straight through. What always horrifies me is the number of people who complain about the checks. It may take a few minutes and admittedly is a nuisance, but when terrorists have again brought devastation to Europe surely these checks should be welcomed by all travellers? On a brighter note, I hope you all had a lovely Easter and that the Easter bunny popped along to your home. We’re used to the message that dogs shouldn’t be bought on a whim at Christmas but a pet shop chain took the idea further this Easter. Its rabbits were not for sale over Easter to prevent them being bought on impulse and then abandoned when the holidays end. The bunny ban was lifted once the bank holiday weekend was over. And for those of you who bought one just remember - bunnies need eggercise to keep fit!
Liz Turner Assistant Editor
How to contact useditorial
News Desk: 01202 870270 Advertising: 01202 816140 Brightbox Designs: 01202 233441 Email: mags@mags4dorset.co.uk Web: www.mags4dorset.co.uk Twitter: @mags4dorset Facebook: mags4dorset.news 1st Floor, King George V Pavilion, Peter Grant Way, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9EN
next copy closing date:
15 APRIL 2016 The Editor reserves the right to amend or shorten contributions in order to fit in with the editorial policy and style of the magazine
Pic of the month Is this my best side? Young calves have been enjoying the spring weather and the attention of passing walkers.
4Dorset is independently published and distributed free to homes and businesses in selected areas of Dorset and Hampshire. It is also available by subscription at £35 per year. Views or opinions expressed in 4Dorset are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement deemed to be unsuitable for publication. Information about a service does not imply recommendation. All purchases made through this publication are done so entirely at your own risk. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with 4Dorset and should not be reproduced without prior written permission from the publisher.
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SO LONG, FAREWELL MRS GOULD New g
Schools out for Mrs Gould (centre) with gifts of an engraved vase from the school, flowers held by Brendon and Sienna, a photo canvas held by her husband Quartus and her mother Mary Woods, featuring the hand prints of all of the school’s 187 children including Alissa (far left) and Mia (left).
During her teaching career, Shirley Gould has had 104 end of terms. But after 35 years, the West Moors Middle School, the assistant headteacher has broken up for the last time. After 28 years at West Moors, she has taken early retirement. And while fellow staff and pupils were sad to see her leave, they threw a series of celebrations worthy of such a longstanding teacher. A special assembly followed by a tea party with cakes and juice for the youngsters, gave headteacher James
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VIEWPOINT April 2016
Rielly chance to thank Mrs Gould for all she had contributed to the school and he led a standing ovation for the “excellent teacher.” The choir also sang ‘So Long, Farewell’ from The Sound of Music complete with actions. Mrs Gould told the children and guests including headteachers, her mother and husband, that she had taught over 10,000 children during her career, which started at St Leonard’s Middle School, in Blandford. Asking the children if she had taught any of their parents, she went on to discover that one pupil’s grandparent had been in her class.
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Her message for the pupils was to take every opportunity they are given and believe in themselves. She also paid tribute to teaching assistants Dawn Ward and Helen Wakeford for their support. The celebrations included a party for ex-colleagues and Mrs Gould provided a disco for the children. Mrs Gould, who has two children, said she is looking forward to finding time to garden, knit, play the piano, cycle, cook and visit Rome during her retirement. She may also take a course on teaching children with hearing impairment.
Alderholt councillor
In a closely fought battle, Conservative candidate Gina Logan has been elected as the new East Dorset District Councillor for the Alderholt ward. She received just eight votes more than her nearest rival, David Tooke from the Liberal Democrats. The by-election on 3 March was called following the resignation of Ian Monks, who had been leader of the council.
New TG chairman Margaret Wright has taken over from Ruth Elphick as chairman of Verwood Afternoon TG. The business side of the annual meeting was followed by tea and cakes and ‘Irish bingo’. An arts and crafts competition is being held this month and members will be holding a Queen’s 90th birthday coffee morning.
Concern over fires
‘as fast as Olympic sprinter’ OPERATION HEATHLAND HAS BEEN LAUNCHED TO PROTECT DORSET’S HEATHLAND FROM FIRE, THEFT AND ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR
As well as arson, the UHP tackles issues including: • Trampling of rare plants and animals • Erosion of vegetation and sandy heathland soil • Disturbance of ground-nesting birds such as nightjars and woodlarks • Enrichment of the soil by dog faeces • Fly-tipping of rubbish and garden refuse • Predation of rare animals by domestic pets The initiative, in its 17th year, runs until 30 September. Last year, there were over 100 reports of heath/grass type fires. Six youths were arrested and dealt with through the Youth Justice System for three separate offences. Nearly a third of Dorset’s internationally important heathland is situated in the urban areas of south east Dorset, with nearly half a million people living nearby. The majority of Dorset heaths are designated ‘Site of Special Scientific Interest’(SSSI) and above such as ‘Special Protection Area’ (SPA). Gaynor Mant from Dorset Fire and Rescue Service said: “Arson is the biggest threat to heathland wildlife. Deliberate and accidental fires can destroy whole colonies of wildlife. Be careful with cigarette butts and do not use disposable BBQs on heaths.
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Fires in the summer on heathlands can have devastating effects on the wildlife and vegetation; they can take up to 25 years to recover
Call 01202 642787, email urbanheaths@dorsetcc.gov.uk or visit the Community Heath Watch page on Facebook for more information or sign up to receive alerts about heathlands by joining Heath Watch via Dorset Alert.
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rganisations who want to protect Dorset’s heathland from vandalism, damage and arson, are working to maintain the county’s precious natural landscape, by carrying out educational programmes and prevention activity in schools, the community and on heathlands. The group, known as the Urban Heaths Partnership (UHP), comprises of 14 organisations, including Dorset Police, Dorset Fire and Rescue Service, local authorities, Natural England, Dorset Wildlife Trust, The Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust, the National Trust, the RSPB and the Forestry Commission.
“People need to be aware of the risks to the heath and potential house fires.” Paul Attwell, the Urban Heaths Partnership manager said: “The Urban Heaths Partnership continues to work together to help protect and enhance our local heathland, which is important not just to the local community, but internationally as well. He said: “Fires in the summer on heathlands can have devastating effects on the wildlife and vegetation; they can take up to 25 years to recover. These fires can in the right conditions travel as fast as an Olympic sprinter.” Volunteers are being recruited who regularly visit the heaths and would be willing to give up a small amount of their time to help protect them. The UHP offer training to Heath Watch groups on Dorset’s open spaces.
Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news
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REVIEW
Tell Me On A Sunday starring Jodie Prenger, Lighthouse, Poole’s Centre for the Arts By Liz Turner It must be daunting to take on the challenge of touring a show associated with some of the darlings of musical theatre. But it was clear from the opening note of Take That Look Off Your Face that Jodie Prenger was going to make Tell Me On A Sunday her own. Andrew Lloyd Webber and Don Black’s classic musical charts the misadventures of Emma, a young English girl in New York in the heady days of the 1980s. Brimming with optimism, she seeks success and love, but as she weaves her way through the maze of the city and her own anxieties, she begins to wonder whether she’s been looking for love in all the wrong places. Originally conceived for television, Tell Me On a Sunday has become an iconic musical. Stars including Marti Webb and Sarah Brightman have made this musical legendary and Jodie is ensuring it remains a box-office hit. She rose to fame as the winner of the 2008 television contest, I’d Do Anything and totally succeeds in the challenge of taking on an iconic role and making it her own. Jodie didn’t only pack a punch with her amazing voice and clear diction, but she portrayed a sense of vulnerability that every woman in the audience can relate to. She captured the emotions of relationships from
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VIEWPOINT April 2016
elation to dejection with a heartfelt passion. And always in the background was the undefeatable optimism and hope that brings women through heartbreak and betrayal. This production goes back to its roots, being staged in the 1980s, with the set’s backdrop the New York skyline. The musical has not dated – the harsh reality of the love life of a young single girl living in NY is just as relevant today as it was when written. The story is based around her letters home to her mum, containing hope and disappointment and also adding humour, but in the days before mobiles and Facebook, we know her advice and reassurance will take time to arrive. This new production, directed by Paul Foster, included an intimate post-show chat with Jodie about life, love and playing the role of Emma. With Tell Me On A Sunday lasting around 60 minutes – all pretty demanding for a solo performer - this second act is an added bonus. This included a wonderful mesmerising performance of Secret Love from Calamity Jane, which she toured in 2014. And a duet of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Another Suitcase from Evita, allowed understudy Jodie Beth Meyer to show off her beautiful voice. Pity this was a one night only appearance at Lighthouse, Poole’s Centre For The Arts but it was great to see the theatre full.
Custard pies
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With custard pies, silly string and glitter, Cranborne Middle School’s production of Bugsy Malone was enjoyed by performers and audience alike.
Photo credit: Wisam Amid (Xische & Co.)
Over 50 students aged 9-13 were involved in the New York based musical, acting and singing as well as set design, backstage, orchestra, administration and props. Bugsy was written for a cast of child actors by Alan Parker in 1976 and tells the story of rival New York gangs in the 1920s prohibition era and includes popular songs such as ‘My Name is Tallulah’ and ‘Fat Sam’s
Grand Slam’. Mr Parker, deputy headteacher said: “At CMS we’re proud of the opportunities children have to develop their interests and talents in lessons and beyond the curriculum. Bugsy has given children the chance to act, dance, perform musically, help backstage, design sets and work together to produce a fantastic
performance and have great fun.” The director, Mrs Bedford, didn’t get to see the show as she went into labour seven weeks early just before the final rehearsal, successfully producing a four pound five ounce baby.
Fifth former Luke Bannister from Canford School in Wimborne has become the official World Champion of FPV Racing following success at the World Drone Prix 2016 in Dubai. Luke was one of 13 top pilots selected from Europe who travelled to Dubai as the Tornado X-Blades team. The team was supported by 30 others, including co-pilots, technical engineers, team managers, team coach, coordinator, event organiser and film crew. In order to become champion Luke faced a challenging FPV course of glowing fluorescent lights guiding the way around the 591-metre track against 80 expert pilots from around the globe. Leading his team to victory netted a winning prize of $250,000, which is being divided between the 43-team members. Luke is a founding member of the Canford School Drone Flying Club, which was established two years ago. The club meets regularly to film both general aerial shots of the school and also specific events. At Christmas the latest production was featured on the school electronic Christmas card. Headmaster Ben Vessey said: “We are all very proud of Luke’s achievements. He has been a valuable member of our school drone club and has worked very hard to develop his flying to championship level.”
Drone World Champion
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Column supplied by Wessex Pensions
Pensions – impact following the March budget? Despite the media initially raising concern that the Chancellor may yet again allow the Government to raid pensions to help reduce the UK’s deficit, and then at the last minute stating that George Osborne had done a U-turn, there was still concern as to what radical changes could be imposed. Even though there were some changes to pensions, such as lump sum benefits due to ill health and payments to charity, the status quo pretty much stayed the same. Pension tax-free lump
Daniel Parkin
sum withdrawals remained, tax relief on contributions also stayed the same – even salary sacrifice was left alone, albeit changes are being proposed. There was even a reduction in stamp duty for those purchasing a commercial property, which may benefit those businesses considering buying such an investment, especially if purchased via their pension. However, the Chancellor did pull something unsuspecting from his red briefcase – the Lifetime ISA. According
to Money Marketing, this new product launched in this budget is set to cost the Treasury £2bn by 2020/21. Aimed at the under 40s, this savings plan is to help people save for their first home or remain as an investment for their retirement and will be accessible at the age of 60. The launch date is expected from April 2017 and for those people aged between 18 and 40 years of age. However, there is a sting in the tail in that any withdrawals made not for the purchase of a first home or before the age of 60 will lose both the government bonus and be liable to an additional charge. So how will this new ISA impact on auto enrolment? There is a risk that young savers may decide to opt out of auto enrolment and invest instead into an ISA, especially if they plan to save for a home. However, they may lose out on additional employer contributions they would expect under auto enrolment. Perhaps the need of financial education in the workplace becomes more prominent as situations such as this arise during one’s working life.
For more information about pensions, telephone Daniel Parkin on 07801 432182 Address: 17 Headlands Business Park, Salisbury Road, Ringwood, Hampshire, BH24 3PB
Raising the flag on Ferrett Green
Representatives from five schools attended the raising of the Commonwealth flag by the Mayor of Verwood, Cllr Mrs Sandra Grove on 14 March. Prior to the ceremony, which coincided with others around the country, the mayor read a letter from Kamalesh Sharma, Commonwealth Secretary General before reading the Commonwealth Affirmation. Children attended from Emmanuel Middle School and four first schools: Hillside, Three Legged Cross, Trinity and Verwood. (Pictured)
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VIEWPOINT April 2016
mags4dorset’s charity of the year
Cherry Tree Nursery in Northbourne The first project of the registered charity the Sheltered Work Opportunities Project, Cherry Tree has been providing a supportive working environment and a caring community to adults with severe and enduring mental illness for over 25 years.
The plants we grow and sell Cherry Tree Nursery was originally set up as a wholesale nursery growing plants for the landscape trade. Due to the generosity of Bournemouth Borough Council, Cherry Tree is now able to sell a huge selection of high quality hardy garden plants to the general public, and all money raised from plant sales goes towards the work of the charity. Nursery Manager Jessica Davies says, “We produce a wide variety of shrubs and perennials, and also feature climbers, herbs, grasses, bamboo, conifers, heathers, alpines, bedding in season, fruit bushes and vegetable plants, and have just finished extending our display areas for fruiting and ornamental trees and roses, as part of a general revamp of our plant sales area. “We always try to respond to the needs and wishes of our customers, for example, the increasing interest in ‘grow your own’, the longterm popularity of cottage garden-type plants, and the current demand for larger, more wellestablished plants. “Many of our plants have been produced here by our volunteers from seeds or semi-ripe cuttings, while we buy in others from UK sources as plugs or liners to grown on. We do not, however, have the facilities to produce our own bedding, which
comes from a small local nursery. We have no heated glasshouses at Cherry Tree, which means nothing has been forced, and we try to sell plants at the appropriate time of year. Our motto is ‘Caring for People, Caring for Plants’, and we hope that our plants respond to the supportive environment. “Our shop is staffed by our volunteers and friends, who are always keen to help.” Cherry Tree Nursery is open every day from April to October and the highly popular plant sale events for 2016 will be held on Saturdays 2 April, 2 July and 17 September. “We would like to thank all our customers for their support,” added Jessica.
Telephone: 01202-593537 Email: contactus@cherrytreenursery.org.uk
And now for the London Marathon… Cherry Tree Nursery has just celebrated its 25th anniversary having provided support, a sense of purpose and family environment to over 700 adults with severe and enduring mental health problems. The charity has been allocated one runner’s place in the Virgin Money London Marathon 2016 and looks forward to securing its future in its 26th year by completing the marathon distance of 26 miles on 24 April. Would you like to be part of this event and sponsor Cherry Tree? The runner, Tish Borrowman joined Cherry Tree as an assistant manager in November 2015. She also completed the Bournemouth Marathon in 2013 and 2014 for Cherry Tree. Sponsor her at Virgin Money Giving / Tish Borrowman.
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TRADING STANDARDS
Your choice: Dorset meat Wimborne Tractor Road Run & Rally
30 April 2016 Tractor buffs will love this unique event raising funds for Macmillan Cancer Support. Leaving the Coach & Horses at 10.15am up to 50 tractors will travel through Corfe Mullen and Broadstone. They will return to Wimborne via Gravel Hill at around 11.15am, making their way to Furzehill, Colehill then back to the pub for 12.15pm. Live entertainment, hog roast and games will continue at the pub throughout the rally with a raffle being drawn at 3pm.
The provenance and safety of meat is high on our agenda in Dorset. Just look around you at the livestock grazing in the fields to get an idea of where some of your meat comes from in our local butchers, farmers markets and supermarkets. Part of our job in Animal Health is to make sure that farmed animals raised for meat are well-cared for. This includes their housing, grazing and diet, access to water and how their feed is stored. We also check that they are identified correctly so that meat can be traced back to ‘the source’. To help with all this we regularly check records to see that they contain the relevant information and are correct. We routinely visit Dorset abattoirs to make sure that livestock has been transported correctly, is identified correctly and is fit for the food chain. In Dorset we are lucky to have many small outlets
such as local butchers, selling good local meat from farms in the area. Local meat will have all been prepared to the same highest standard as larger retailers but have the beauty of being from local sources and have had far less ‘food miles’. We also check the labelling of meat and products to ensure they are described correctly. One way to tell if meat has been inspected and approved through a licensed abattoir is by the joints being stamped UK 0000 EC. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you are being offered meat. What abattoir was it processed in? Is it from a local farm? Is it British? Once the meat has been jointed, the stamps may not always be evident. Another thing to look out for on packaged meat is the red tractor logo. This means it has come from a British Farm Assured premise. Only farms registered and inspected by this scheme are allowed to use this logo.
To enjoy the best meat, you do have the choice to buy meat from animals locally that has been checked for traceability and high welfare standards. For further information contact 01305 224475, or visit Dorsetforyou.com and
follow the links to Trading Standards, Animal Health pages.
Christine and Karen Animal Health
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About space
Membership open for new theatre company
Members of Colehill Evening WI enjoyed a lively talk in March by Bill Combes about the International Space Station. It was fascinating to hear how the crew function day to day and to see some wonderful photographs of our beautiful world. The April meeting will be the AGM. Colehill Evening WI meets on the second Wednesday of the month at 7.30pm at Colehill Memorial Hall, and visitors are welcome. Contact colehillwi@aol.com
Launched in partnership with the Priest’s House Museum in Wimborne, a new theatre company for adults with learning disabilities still has places for new members. If you are over 18, enthusiastic and with some experience and commitment to drama, get in touch. Membership is free thanks to funding by Arts Council
England, Wimborne Rotary Club and East Dorset District Council, as well as support from the Priest’s House Museum Trust. The drama workshops will take place on various Saturday mornings at the Priest’s House Museum. To get involved or for further information please email tam@persuasionarts.co.uk.
Beneath the Surface By Heidi Perks
Review by Janine Pulford From the first page of ‘Beneath the Surface’, I needed to know why Abigail’s parents had deserted her, taking her little sisters with them. With Abi’s life thrown into chaos, the story skips 14 years and she gives glimpses of her past through a letter to her husband unravelling the painful threads of her life. Meanwhile, her mother’s secure and safe life with Abi’s sisters Hannah and Lauren is about to come crashing down. And there is nothing the girls’ domineering grandmother, who engineered their lives for her own convenience, can do about it. Inevitably, Abi and her ‘lost’ family will collide. The characters are well-drawn and tension is maintained throughout. I was worried the letter would be difficult to sustain, but it worked well and weaved seamlessly with the family’s story. Apart from a couple of convenient plot developments towards the end, this story was absorbing and I didn’t see the saddest twist of all coming. It’s a novel that starts in the dark and stays very much in the shade. Not my usual choice, but having been sent a copy to review prior to the release date, I was glad to have read it and found it hard to put down.
Things you may not know about
PUDSEY
With BBC’s Children in Need mascot attending the Variety Performance at the Hub in Verwood on 18 November, MAGS4DORSET thought readers might want to gen up on this popular bear. • Pudsey Bear made his television debut in 1985 when Terry Wogan introduced the cuddly mascot to the audience. • He was designed by Joanna Ball, a BBC graphics designer. • She named him Pudsey after the town where she was born in West Yorkshire. • He became BBC Children in Need’s official logo the following year with the design amended to that of a yellow bear with a red spotted bandage. • Children love him. • Pudsey Bear receives letters, drawings and emails from youngsters all over the UK and loves being photographed with celebrities.
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VIEWPOINT April 2016
in health and fitness - advertising feature -
On your marks, get set, go #places! With spring on the way Ferndown Leisure Centre is putting wheels in motion by giving a free Apollo Slant or Apollo Twilight bike to everyone who joins up throughout April 2016 to an all-inclusive annual membership. If you join as a family or joint, you will receive 2 free bikes, so get pedalling. An all-inclusive membership offers you the greatest choice of fitness options to help keep you motivated with unlimited use of the gym, swimming pool and exercise classes and the Centre’s fitness team are on hand to help you achieve the results you would like. To help you kick-start your healthy living programme, Ferndown Leisure Centre is offering two months free to all-inclusive membership or swim memberships to anyone joining for a year.
NEW This Girl Can: Swim -
Tuesday 2.40-3.40pm and Thursday 9.30-10.30am These female-only swim sessions have been designed to provide a relaxing environment where you can swim at your own pace, meet new people and get the most out of your swim for your body and mind. Come by and give it a go! You get all of the following for the price of a swim and you don’t need to book: • Female support on poolside including advice on technique • Use of poolside equipment if you wish • Free tea and coffee after your sessions in the dedicated social area to meet other women just like you • Use of SWIMTAG - plus you can gain bounts points for money-off local supermarkets, high street shops and more!
Top tip: If you fancy a swim with the family, remember that 1 adult and 2 children under 8 can swim for £4.
Contact: Ferndown Leisure Centre
O1202 877468 www.ferndownleisurecentre.co.uk
Cakes and cuppas to help dementia
K
ettles and cake at the ready, ‘Brew Up for Dementia is back’ for 2016. Bournemouth Hospital Charity wants friends, family and colleagues to catch up over a cuppa in April and help raise money for dementia care at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital. Last year around 2,290 patients with dementia were treated at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital (RBH) and according to the Alzheimer’s Society there are around 850,000 people living with dementia in the UK (2015). Money raised will go towards purchasing four iPads to assist with the national ‘This is Me’ initiative which helps people with dementia tell hospital staff about their needs. Money will also go towards dementia boxes that include reminiscence folders and rummage bags, and weekly music therapy for patients.
To find out more, please visit http:// bournemouthhospitalcharity.org/brewup/ or call the charity office on 01202 704060.
Dementia friendly village West Moors is working to become a Dementia Friendly Community. A series of informal and friendly Dementia Awareness Sessions will be run to tell you more about dementia and how you can support those with dementia and their carers. Hosted at West Moors Library, the sessions last about 45 minutes and are free (tea or coffee included). To find out more, visit the West Moors Parish Council website or call Angela on 07929 441173. Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news
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These are Simon Gibson’s own views and do not reflect those of East Dorset District Council or those of other councillors
Council Matters by Cllr Simon Gibson
Cllr Simon Gibson
Where does East Dorset’s future lie? Last month I highlighted how councillors had to look closely at how our organisations are run. How East Dorset and Christchurch Councils have been able to save money by sharing some services, and how looking carefully at our future accommodation needs can continue to deliver savings that are vital to meeting the challenges of reducing budgets. This month I will focus on a step further – potential mergers or changes to local council structures. In the autumn, the local press was full of stories about a proposed ‘Super Council.’ A potential merger between Bournemouth, Poole, East Dorset & Christchurch Councils to form one large South East Dorset Unitary. Despite the coverage, these proposals were only ever at a very early stage, with local council leaders looking at innovative ways to deal with a looming financial crisis. Nothing was or had been decided behind closed doors.
In reality this was just one of a number of options that would soon emerge. Various combinations of potential councils were suggested and leaders of all the councils in Dorset began to discuss how best to run council services across the county. In December, East Dorset District Council voted to remove itself from any discussions about mergers or further sharing of services. Whilst I understand the concerns raised by many council colleagues, I believe that walking away from such discussions will not stop change from happening in East Dorset but it may hinder our ability to influence any potential outcomes. Some local residents have expressed their concerns with some of the proposals that they have read about. Ultimately, it is about providing the best services and value for money for local residents and as a local councillor, I am keen to explore all available options to do this.
If you want to know more about Simons work as a councillor check out his Facebook page www.facebook.com/cllrsimongibson
Tomato sauce to clean secateurs! Growing Vegetables for the Domestic Gardener sounds like an interesting topic and speaker, Ray Broughton, not only made it a fascinating subject, but was also entertaining, giving members of Fordingbridge & District Horticultural Society some excellent tips along the way. Head of horticulture at Sparsholt College for 12 years, amongst his other important horticultural roles, he made it clear that we can all grow vegetables and described new
developments that will make this more successful. Seeds, for example, coated with organic nutrients and germination enhancer and new ‘Weetabix Pots’ impregnated with nutrients and water-holding gel. To prevent potato scab, Ray advised wrapping the seed potato in non-waxed newspaper, wet and plant. And if you are worried about potato blight, he said the Met Office has produced a smartphone ‘app’ that gives warnings of when blight
can be expected in your area so that you can cover your potato plants in fleece. The spores die after about one week without food. The same goes for tomatoes. Another tip was to use organic barley straw for covering potatoes, which are planted just below the soil surface allowing roots to grow in the soil but the tubers to grow nice and clean in the straw. Tomatoes can also be grown very successfully in pots on organic barley straw. Another ‘must try’.
Perhaps the most unusual tip was for cleaning secateurs. Who would think of standing the blades in tomato sauce (not brown sauce) for three days to clean and de-burr them? The next meeting is on 25 April at 7.30pm, Avonway, Fordingbridge. David Ennals will talk about ‘Care and Cultivation of Cacti.’ The society’s popular plant sale will take place on 30 April at Fordingbridge car park by the library.
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RINGWOOD NEWS
WANTED
– VIPs born in 1926
Organisers of the Queen’s 90th birthday celebrations in Ringwood are inviting the town’s residents also celebrating their 90th birthday in 2016 onto the top table at the giant street party The Town Council will be providing seating for 2000 people but if you’re the same age as the Queen you will have pride of place at the top table as guests of the mayor. You will also get a commemorative certificate of the event and a photograph. Organiser Mandy Oldfield said: “We need people to come forward who have their 90th birthday this year and would like to be guests on the top table. We want to make this as memorable an event as we can for everyone.” This should prove to be a real community event with Churches Together organising free cake and drink for those with tickets. Local businesses have also come forward to help fund tables, decorations, flags and entertainment for this once in a lifetime event. If you would like to nominate someone celebrating their 90th go to www.ringwood.gov.uk or ring 01425 473883
Happy 90th birthday Your Majesty Beacons will be lit throughout the UK to celebrate the Queen’s birthday on 21 April. Bournemouth’s Mayor Cllr John Adams will light the council’s beacon at 7.30pm at Fisherman’s Walk, adjacent to Cliff Lift, Boscombe Overcliff Drive, Southbourne. Everyone is welcome.
RINGWOOD’S
T N A I G STREET PA
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n 12 June Ringwood market place will be full of the noise and bustle of celebrations to mark the Queen’s 90th birthday celebrations with a ‘Giant Street Party’. There will be live entertainment, fair rides with tables and seating provided for up to 2,000 people along with an Italian market, which will be in place on Saturday and Sunday. In the lead up to the event local residents and organisations will be asked to ‘Clean for the Queen’ and get involved in local clean-up projects being coordinated by the Town Council and they will also get priority tickets for the street party. If you want to get involved or if there is an area of the town you would
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like to see get cleaned up then let the council know. The ticketed event is free and people can collect their tickets from the end of April. It is ‘bring your own picnic’ but there will be food and refreshments available on site. While tickets may be limited there will still be an opportunity for people to bring a picnic blanket or picnic table to the street and more details will be available closer to the event. Event organisers are looking for one more entertainer to fill a 30-minute slot in the day before releasing the programme.
People wanting more details should look at www.ringwood.gov.uk or Ringwood Town Council’s Facebook Page.
RINGWOOD NEWS
Easter egg-citement for hen rescuers Ringwood hen rescuers celebrated Easter with freshly laid eggs and the knowledge that they had saved the lives of the birds.
Hens which had been destined for the pot, have been rehomed in Hampshire and Dorset thanks to Ringwood rescuer Celia Marker who found new owners for the organic layers. The 1,202 hens were part of a flock of 9,000 from a farm in East Sussex, which were due to be slaughtered last month. But thanks to a local appeal by Celia for homes and additional publicity when the hens were featured on BBC1’s The One Show, over 100 new owners came forward. In fact so many people offered to take them that Celia ran out of hens. Those lucky enough to get hens, Easter present - Findlay Sandford looking after his new hens picked them up from Ashley Heath and Totton. At Ashley Heath 55 rescuers collected 751 clucking hens. An assortment of boxes, dog crates and cat baskets were used to transport them to their new homes. Children came with their parents to pick up the muchawaited hens but the adults were just as keen to meet their new ‘guests’. Celia said: “The rescue has been very demanding as I am the only organiser for it. It’s been weeks of work and I’m relieved it’s over. The great pleasure is in seeing all those lovely hens, not 18-months old and with years ahead of them, going off to happy homes and not to the slaughterhouse for pet food. Tens of thousands are killed at this young age just because the supermarkets demand perfect eggs – not misshapen, not thin shelled and, of course, cheap.” While Celia’s work is over for another year or so, other is the Birthstone for April hens are available from British Hen Welfare Trust and Fresh Start for Hens who rescue caged and free-range hens all year By David at Fields Jewellers, round. Ringwood The rest of the hens from the East Sussex flock were There are many myths re-homed in Brighton and northern England. and legends attributed to diamonds. The ancient Romans and Greeks had a lot of powerful beliefs about diamonds, including the idea that diamonds were the tears of the gods or possibly the splinters that had broken off falling stars . Roman literature, which first mention diamonds in the 1st century AD also stated that cupid’s irresistible arrows were tipped with diamonds. The Greeks went further and wrote about diamonds as living beings that embodied celestial spirits.
Diamond
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VIEWPOINT April 2016
Body cameras County councillors vote for change coming to Dorset Dorset Police are issuing officers with audio and video recording devices in an effort to make police more accountable. Body worn video (aka BWV/body cams) is a joint project between Dorset Police and Devon and Cornwall Police to equip officers with an audio and video recording device. The aim is to eventually provide cameras to all operational front line officers. This is in response to public expectations to make police more accountable for their actions. The motivation for the implementation of these cameras has always been evidential. They will provide an unbiased record of what an officer has experienced. The cameras will be used to record the majority of incidents and encounters, making the police more transparent and officers’ actions more accountable Dorset Police operational lead, Superintendent Richard Bell, said: “All officers will receive training on the use of cameras and our legal responsibilities. “The cameras will be docked and downloaded every shift, and files will be tagged for evidence. “A large scale trial, involving 100 plus cameras at Bridport, Weymouth and Bournemouth is due to commence in summer 2016.” Martyn Underhill, Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner said, “Body worn videos increase the evidence gathering ability of the police, especially in domestic abuse and public order scenarios. “Cameras can help diffuse difficult situations as people behave differently when told they are being filmed. “The cameras also prove extremely useful for officers facing extreme violence and can be used to assist a court when an officer is assaulted. They can also be useful in the case of a complaint against police. “Public surveys undertaken by me over three years have shown consistent support from the public in introducing this tactic to the policing of Dorset. “Body worn videos are a win-win scenario for the police, the victim and the courts.”
Dorset County councillors have voiced a preference for changing the set-up of local government in the county from nine councils to two. At a meeting of the full council on 10 March, they openly debated six options for reducing the number of councils in Dorset, or not. A clear majority voted to change to a model of two unitary councils, made up of either: • One unitary council for the current county council area and one for Bournemouth and Poole (54 per cent of votes) or • One unitary council for the area East Dorset, North Dorset, Purbeck, West Dorset and Weymouth and Portland and one for Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch (41 per cent of votes). The vote is not a binding decision for the council, and more work on the preferred options will be carried out with a view to developing a full business case. Before the council makes any decision, local people will get the chance to have their say in a public consultation – likely to be held during the summer. The council’s leader, Cllr Robert Gould said: “We had a thorough debate in which nearly all county councillors had their say. It was encouraging to see agreement that we need to change and do things better for the people of Dorset. “We now have a clear consensus around having one new council serving the whole ‘shire’ Dorset area, with an enhanced role for town and parish councils to deliver local services and strengthen their identity. “This would simplify the structure of local government for residents, save money and help our case for a really ambitious devolution deal for Dorset. “We will continue to work with the other Dorset councils to develop a solution for the whole county. A key part of this will be consulting with local people to make sure everyone has a chance to be involved. “This is a great opportunity for the whole of Dorset to create something that supports the future needs and ambitions of the county.” County councillors rejected the options for a single pan-Dorset unitary authority for Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole, two other options for separate unitary authorities, and of making no change to the current structure. All councils are working together to agree on their preferred option before the business case is submitted to the Secretary of State at the beginning of next year. You can join in the debate about the future of local government in Dorset on Twitter using the hashtag #LocalGovDorset.
Events to celebrate West Moors Parish Council’s 60th year 24 MAY
A play, a quiz, cheese & wine
West Moors Drama Group will be entertaining at St Anthony’s Church at 7.30pm. Free event, but numbers are limited so RSVP to West Moors Parish Council 01202 861044, westmoorsparish@btconnect.com
25 MAY
Flower Festival
Everyone is invited to create a flower display using real, artificial or home-made flowers to reflect the last 60 years of West Moors. The Flower Festival is being hosted by St Martin’s Church and flowers should be delivered by 25 May.
27 MAY
The Legacy of the Railway
A talk by Martin Rowley at West Moors Library, 2pm. Refreshments.
Who killed Tony Ferdinand?
Show off your sleuthing skills at this murder mystery evening at West Moors Library between 7pm–8.30pm. Refreshments and prizes included. Purchase tickets at West Moors Library in Station Road or call Angela on 01202 873272.
St George’s Day poppy walk
28 MAY
An event for all the family is set to take place in Ferndown on St George’s Day. In its third year, the popular Ferndown Poppy Walk is in aid of serving and ex-servicemen and women. It will follow a 5-mile (or as much as you can manage) all-pavement route around the centre of Ferndown and Parley. Pram-pushers, dog walkers, grandparent teams and school, pub and sports groups are welcome and there will be a special prize for the best-dressed St George’s Day entry. Entries and sponsor forms will be available on the day or in advance from the RBL in Church Road, Ferndown, BH22 9ET. Every penny raised will go to the Poppy Appeal, so walk the walk for 2016 on Saturday 23 April, starting at 11am from the Royal British Legion building in Church Road, Ferndown.
Follow the treasure trail, solve the clues and see the sights of the village. Collect trail forms on the day between 9am and 11am from the parish office and return your entry by no later than Monday, 30 May. All completed entries will be put in a prize draw. Four prizes with a top prize of a family ticket to Farmer Palmers. Any queries? Call 01202 861044.
Treasure hunters required
Good gracious – Good Friday! Pictured are children ‘picking’ hot cross buns from trees! For the last 40 years this unusual tradition has taken place after the Good Friday service in Wimborne Minster. Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news
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education & classes
Hospital visits can be fun
Iain Luscombe with Year One pupils
A group of schoolchildren enjoyed X-ray vision during a visit to Wimborne’s Victoria Hospital. Year One pupils from Wimborne First School visited the community hospital, run by Dorset HealthCare, to learn about the body and the importance of exercise, hygiene and general good health. More than 50 children,
aged five and six, were given a tour of the radiology unit – where they were able to X-ray a lunch box, a pencil case and a teddy bear named Hazelnut. Subsequent ‘diagnosis’ revealed the contents of the pencil case as well as the radiological appearances of healthy fruit and sweet treats in the lunchbox - and Hazelnut was given a clean
bill of health. Radiology services manager Iain Luscombe said, “It was a great opportunity to extend the hospital’s relationship with the school and local community. The children were introduced to the X-ray department and the hospital in a fun, educational way, which will hopefully reduce any anxiety if they ever have
to visit again to receive treatment. “It was a great visit,” added Wimborne First School Year One teacher Rebecca Drake. “The children absolutely loved it. It really brought to life some of the things they have been learning in our ‘healthy me’ lessons, and made them realise that hospitals are not scary places.”
- advertising feature -
Tennis for Tots “I have been a fully qualified PTR tennis coach for six years teaching young children to advanced players. I played on the professional tennis circuit playing in ITF world ranking events for two years. After that, I decided to start my own coaching business, MK Tennis Coaching in 2013. I wanted to provide an affordable tennis programme for young children using my success to inspire them.” Matt Kinsler, Tots Tennis.
Talking vegetables Acclaimed author of ‘I Don’t Like Vegetables’, Debbie Coggan visited the children of Hillside Community First School in Verwood as part of their celebrations for World Book Day. She worked with the children to plant vegetable seeds and brought in an array of more unusual vegetables for the children to touch and smell, encouraging them to try eating them at home. The author also read the children her book and answered questions about being an author. Everyone dressed up as book characters for the day.
Ferndown Middle beats the drum A set of 30 TOCA Djembe drums has arrived at Ferndown Middle School. The new drums have already been put to good use with several year groups energising and creating beautiful music and sounds. The school wishes to thank John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation, Ferndown Town Council and Mike Downton for their generous donations enabling the purchase of the drums. - advertising feature -
Keep fit and learn self-defence Tae Kwon Do is not just a great way to keep fit and learn self-defence, it is the best way of learning in a relaxed environment whilst working hard and having fun. A recent grading in Fordingbridge Stephen Lamberth says, “If you are having fun, you do not notice how physical it can be until you finish, the feeling of achievement and accomplishment is immense not only when you finish a lesson but when you complete a grading cycle and progress to the next belt. Magnify it around 1000 times and that is the feeling when you achieve your black belt.”
You have a FREE ONE month trial with Stephen Lamberth, so why not give it a try? To enrol at Stephen Lamberth’s Tae Kwon Do School call 01202 829012. You can also contact the school online www.taekwondo4u.co.uk
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education and classes
How to spend a councillor’s budget
S
tudents from Ferndown Upper School and Queen Elizabeth’s School, Wimborne helped the Chairman of East Dorset District Council, Cllr Steve Lugg, decide how to spend £1,000 of a ward budget. They put forward ideas and attended the council offices at Furzehill to discuss and agree the winning idea. The High Sheriff of Dorset, Mrs Jennifer Coombs, was also present. The students decided to incorporate two ideas by holding a night-time run at Moors Valley where runners could be sprayed with
LifePaint (that glows in car headlights) to promote the safety aspect of the product. The course would be lit so that the runners would glow in the dark. A further project would see middle and upper school students produce different parts of a larger artwork. Each part could be displayed in a different town on a revolving basis before coming together to form the whole piece. Cllr Steve Lugg said: “This was a very inspiring exercise and I’m very grateful for the hard work that the students undertook to come up with a decision in such
a short space of time. This sort of event brings to life for the students the spending decisions which councillors have to make on a regular basis using the scarcer resources being allocated every year.”
Students with Richard Jones, Democratic Services Manager (extreme left), Jennifer Coombs, High Sheriff of Dorset, Cllr Steve Lugg, Chairman of East Dorset District Council (centre) and Steve Collins, Enterprise Manager at QE School (extreme right)
Bringing Back the Bronze Age
P
upils at St Michael’s Middle School in Colehill enjoyed assembly with a prehistoric twist on 9 March, courtesy of the Wimborne History Festival. It might have been the tales of bodies and bones, or perhaps the replica weapons, but the school’s 510 pupils listened enthralled as eminent archaeologist Julian Richards brought the Bronze Age to life. A team of children from St Michael’s
‘Forest School’ will be working with Mr Richards and volunteers from East Dorset Antiquarian Society and FOAM (Friends of Ancient Monuments) to clear scrub and vegetation from a Bronze Age bell barrow in the school grounds. Julian Richards, presenter of BBC’s ‘Meet the Ancestors’ is delighted to be involved and said, “There can’t be many schools that have over 3,500 years of history standing next to their playing fields. This is a great opportunity for
pupils to help preserve their Bronze Age burial mound and to bring them face-toface with the prehistoric past. “We’re going to transform an overgrown scrub covered mound into something that the school can be proud of, a piece of prehistory, their very own Bronze Age burial site.” This project is the first to get underway as part of the new Wimborne History Festival, which culminates in two days of events on 16 and 17 July.
Moyles Court announces further Open Day in May A beautiful spring day saw Moyles Court in the New Forest at its best; with the school reporting a bumper number of families for its 12 March Open Day. A further day is planned for Saturday 14 May 2016, from 10am until 12.30pm, where families get the opportunity to talk to advocates of Moyles Court – other parents, who are happy to share their first-hand experience of life at the school. Plenty of teachers and other staff are in attendance to offer a thorough visit for every family and allow for plenty of one to one discussions. Ask about the taster days too: telephone 01425 472 856. Moyles Court School is a co-ed school taking pupils from 2½ to 16 years.
Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news
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DISCOVER
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VIEWPOINT April 2016
When push comes to shove By
Julian Hewitt Fordingbridge Museum shove ha’penny and writes how Dylan Thomas, who frequently stayed at his mother-in-law’s house in Blashford, had become an enthusiast for the game as well. He says of Dylan that he had: become a devotee of shove ha’penny, a game to which I was (and am) addicted: he played well too. In 1953 Augustus wrote to his illegitimate son, Tristan de Vere Cole: My shove ha’penny form
has improved greatly lately. I feel I could give you a frightful licking. In Fordingbridge Museum we have the very shove ha’penny board that Augustus John played on in the Station Hotel, now the Augustus John Pub. Do drop in and try your skill at the game. The rules are simple and are displayed next to the board. Bring a friend and see if you can give them a frightful licking!
Exercise in West Moors The emergency services, local councils and health services – supported by volunteers from British Red Cross, St John Ambulance and Rapid Relief Team – will be carrying out an exercise in West Moors on Tuesday 26 April. Up to 200 actors and responding staff will be in the area between 7am and 6pm. You may notice some extra traffic in the area, including emergency vehicles, and increased use of car parks in the village. It is not expected that residents and businesses will be affected by any significant disruption on the day.
Shove ha’penny aficionado Trelawney Dayrell-Reed wrote in his treatise ‘The Shove Ha’penny Board Displayed’: Believe me, Sir, Shove Ha’penny is a miracle of games… On reaching Heaven, unless I find it already played there, I shall introduce it to the Highest notice….. How would the tedium of Peter’s Vigil at the gate not be relieved by a quiet game with one or other of the Archangels? The game of Shove Ha’penny is one which is now rarely seen in pubs although I did visit a pub near Romsey recently which offered customers the opportunity to play. The game has its origins in the game of shovel–board, which was played by aristocrats in the 16th century. This was played on a much larger scale with tables that could be up to 10 yards long and three feet wide and using large flat weights of metal. These were usually to be found in the great halls of the nobility and were, because of their cost and craftsmanship, considered a great status symbol. Henry VIII liked playing the game and in the Privy-Purse accounts of 1532 it relates that, My Lord of Rocheford won of the King at Shovilla Bourde and betting at the game £45. The lower classes played shove-groat which was sometimes also called slypegroat. This was played on a smaller scale and was similar to modern day shove ha’penny. It was very popular in the 16th and 17th century and in Henry IV part 2, Shakespeare’s Falstaff says: Quoit him down, Bardolph, like a shove-groat shilling. The game is played by pushing a coin using the palm of your hand along a polished surface. In some parts of the country these were made of walnut or mahogany but in Hampshire and Dorset the surface was usually made of slate lubricated with arrowroot powder or French chalk to make the coin glide effortlessly. Players score by getting the coin to come to rest between the lines that are engraved on the board. Fordingbridge resident Augustus John loved to play Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news
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How will the BIG Programme
AFFECT YOU? Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) has officially launched the Bournemouth International Growth (BIG) programme, an ambitious major economic growth plan focused on employment and development around Bournemouth Airport. Dorset LEP is overseeing the programme in collaboration with Aviation Business Park, Bournemouth Borough Council, Bournemouth University, Christchurch and East Dorset Councils, Dorset County Council and Manchester Airports Group. Nearly £40 million has been allocated to fund the BIG programme. This is part of the £79 million funding secured by Dorset LEP through the Government’s ‘Local Growth Deals’.
LORNA CARVER, DIRECTOR OF DORSET LEP
The BIG programme includes the transformation of accessibility to and around Bournemouth Airport through extensive transport improvements. I understand the major maintenance of the A338 Bournemouth Spur Road, (the key link road to Bournemouth Airport), is the first phase, which should be completed by the summer. Can you explain what will happen after that? The stretch between Longham mini roundabouts to Blackwater Junction including Parley Cross, will be examined. There are a number of key points along that road. We are looking at all the options how to improve the traffic flow along there. It’s about unlocking and unlocking. We recognise the status quo isn’t good enough and we have some resource to improve that. It’s about opening up the employment sites, opening up the residential development sites in addition enabling people to travel across the area. Any development would go hand-in-hand with road improvements as a package of activity. We have a five-year package of funding up to 2021. At this stage, do you know what any of the other improvements will be? It’s all in scope, we don’t want traffic lights at every junction. All these things have to go through planning. What we are trying to get across is that we have the funding to make the improvements and those improvements have to go through due process. 60 hectares to be developed at Aviation Business Park – what type of land does this consist of? Mostly undeveloped areas of Aviation Business Park. It’s within the park, some of it is fields, some is concrete. It’s about making the most of what we’ve already got and bringing forward the right kind of premises for businesses in the area already, or for new businesses to come in. We are working with the airport authority with the workspace and more generally as well. They need to understand what we’re doing as a business. We need to work with them to help other businesses grow and start or set up, or move there.
“IT’S ALL IN SCOPE, WE DON’T WANT TRAFFIC LIGHTS AT EVERY JUNCTION” 24 |
VIEWPOINT April 2016
The BIG programme will create the single largest employment opportunity in south east Dorset conurbation with the potential to create up to 10,000 new highly-skilled jobs. How does the Dorset LEP see this being achieved? By making the infrastructure improvements it makes the workspace much more attractive and sites will be developed within that workspace. This will occur over the next 10 years. “The idea being if the sites are developed they can support up to 10,000 jobs. Buildings go up, businesses come in, offices are there and those jobs will be realised. 60 ha is a big space. So with a possible 10,000 more people moving in the area, the infrastructure improvements are vital? You’ve hit the nail on the head. There will be cycle links and bus enhancements in addition. We are looking at the full package. You say the BIG programme will generate up to £500 million of GVA (Gross Value Added) into the area. How will this be created? Through a number of things: it starts straight away as soon as more people are employed to put these infrastructures in place and it continues through the building and construction work, through the actual development itself and through the business of the businesses. New homes. The BIG programme includes 350 new homes of which up to 50 per cent are affordable. Where will these be built? Parley Cross (see plan) is where the development is planned. That’s already within the Local Plan. Across the same period you need infrastructure to put new homes in. If we have this infrastructure in place it means that Parley Cross becomes a viable residential development area. It’s that enabling. Would this mean more schools? There are implications of this, but we’re at the beginning of working with local authorities, working with planning departments and making sure that the right improvements are made to enable the development to take place. It’s a package: if you have more people you need more homes, if you have more homes you need more schools. We recognise that and it is about working with our partners to do as much as we can to enable. How would the LEP prevent affordable homes being purchased by landlords for their portfolios and charging high rents? It’s tricky. We can work with local authorities and planning departments and find the best solutions. It would be naïve of me to say we can promise x, y and z. What we can do by working with the planning departments - depending on what the criteria looks like, depending on who the developer is - is to make sure we have best outcome for the area. Will there be flats? I don’t want to get into technical details as no planning application has been put in. There are technical definitions for affordable homes. Ultimately it’s about making sure that we have the right sort of selection of property available for local workers.
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BOURNEMOUTH INTERNATIONAL GROWTH PROGRAMME IS UNDOUBTEDLY DORSET’S MOST IMPORTANT AND BOLD ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROJECT THIS DECADE
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MAGS4DORSET’s editor and director Janine Pulford asks the director of Dorset LEP Lorna Carver about the BIG programme
GORDON PAGE, DORSET LEP CHAIRMAN.
infographic details of the transport and infrastructure improvements planned over the next four years as part of the BIG programme.
Do you see the area becoming an urban sprawl, will it affect any Sites of Special Scientific Interest? (SSSI) What we are focusing on is developing existing sites, this particular programme isn’t about SSSIs, it’s about making the most of the sites that we’ve got. Land that isn’t developed that can be developed. The land around Parley junction is already within the Local Plan. It could create anxiety to people that live there, we don’t underestimate that. It’s a very difficult balance. Making sure there are homes available for people to live in so they can work here, and existing residents. It’s part of the existing planning process. Will there be more than 350 houses by 2028? Working on the infrastructure that we intend to put into that area will enable up to 350 houses to be built by 2028. If you can get in and out of the site, it is more attractive to develop. Our objective is to see the 350 within the local plan. That’s what this funding is to enable.
Can you tell our readers what the BIG programme’s new approach is to improve skills and employee development? Our objective would be to have businesses helping to influence the curriculums at local colleges to make sure that people who are trained can be employed locally but that they also have the right skills for the local employers. It’s about trying to make sure local education providers are providing the right kind of training for local people for local jobs. Trying to influence those kinds of approaches. It’s becoming more key. It works for both parties. We also need to help pupils understand what opportunities are available locally and make sure they can receive the right training if that’s what they want to do to secure local jobs.
Considering the investment in the A338 roadworks, will the remaining funding be adequate to fulfill the rest of the BIG programme? £39,500,000 has been allocated to fund the BIG programme, secured by the Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership through the Government’s ‘Local Growth Deals’. The A338 is the largest and key scheme within the programme both in terms of size and cost. £22 million is being spent on the A338 roadworks (£19.8 million from the local growth deal, £2.2 million from Dorset County Council). All other planned schemes within the programme are smaller and less costly. Specific costs for outstanding schemes will be agreed as part of the design process.
“WE ARE CONFIDENT THAT THE BIG PROGRAMME WILL DELIVER ALL ITS EXPECTED OUTCOMES”
SURVEY RESULTS
A recent survey revealed that over eight out of ten residents agree that Bournemouth Airport is a suitable place for economic development; 91% agreed that if it were to be developed, access to and around the airport needs to be improved.
YOUR COMMENTS
If you have any comments about the LEP’s BIG programme email the editor on editorial@mags4dorset.co.uk
Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news
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8th Annual
Creative Writing Awards Congratulations to Viv Gough from Verwood who won first prize of £150 in this year’s MAGS4DORSET Creative Writing Awards competition. Judged by popular saga author Carol Rivers, the story won a deserving first place. Carol said: “A Rough Ride for Sara’ is topical, well-written and the only story of all on the shortlist, incorporating tension - right up to the very last. My editors require me to work hard to develop tension in my novels. It’s not easy. To find this element (seemingly effortlessly incorporated) in a short story is rare. Excellent. Keep writing Viv and develop your rare
talent for drama / tension.” Viv was thrilled with the win, saying, “Although I write for my own pleasure, it is confidence boosting to know that somebody else enjoys what I write. I’m actually quite proud of it. “I am also genuinely surprised because I know four other people who were shortlisted and have read their stories and really did think that they were better than mine. “I do like the fact that 4Dorset and Viewpoint Magazine give people like me the chance to ‘have a go’.” Viv was highly commended in the
MAGS4DORSET Creative Writing Awards in 2008 with a story called ‘The Trapper Comes Home’ which was published in 4Dorset’s predecessor magazine Town & Village in February 2009. Second place in this year’s competition went to Barry Dunning from West Moors with ‘The Worst Interview of my Life’. He wins £50 and will also see his story in print. As well as cash prizes, both prizewinners received copies of Carol Rivers’ recent novels, ‘Lizzie of Langley Street’ and ‘The Fight For Lizzie Flowers’.
About Viv Gough Viv has lived in Verwood for about 15 years and retired seven years ago. She has two children and three grandchildren. Viv has travelled extensively with her husband who was in the Royal Air Force for 30 years and this gave her the time and opportunity to develop a love of writing short stories. She joined her first writing group while living in Kuwait and when she moved to Verwood, she joined the Writers’ Study and is still one of its original members. “My confidence in writing and reading my work has been boosted by the many inspiring writers who have come and gone in that time,” she says. “I write purely for pleasure although my husband would love me to write a bestselling book and make our fortune.” Viv’s hobbies include reading, gardening, drawing and writing.
HERE IS VIV’S WINNING SUBMISSION:
A Rough Ride for Sara
Sara climbed rickety steps and made her way to the back of the bus. She tried to draw as little attention to herself as possible but frowns and pursed lips followed her. She knew that a single girl travelling alone was not ideal. Pushing aside a clucking chicken, Sara claimed her space. Its owner muttered in her own language but made no further protest. The bus juddered into life and Sara breathed out. So far so good, she thought. *** It had indeed been a long journey so far. Sara was going out to a new job in troubled Afghanistan, to a small village called Nad’Ali. She had flown from England to Kabul and then on to Kandahar but she had missed her flight onwards from Lashkar Gar when she broke all the rules and foolishly decided to explore the souk. There was no rail service and roads were often impassable but, apparently, she had chosen a good time weather-wise so all she had to do was find some suitable clothing, a bottle of water and the bus for Nad’Ali. ***
Sara was shaken awake by the bumps in the road and the heat was making her nauseous. She stuck her head out of the window but the hot air blowing into her face gave little relief. The woman with the chicken ignored her and the clucking, fortunately, had ceased. A girl aged about six years eyed her shyly through long, dark lashes. She didn’t look well and had a nasty cough but a slow smile lit her face, making up for the hostility that Sara felt around her. Sara’s knowledge of Pashtu was limited but she had made an attempt to learn the language. ‘Salam,’(hello). Sara smiled at the little girl and they played peek-a-boo round her mother until an older boy hissed something and the little girl fell silent. Sara took a bottle of aspirin from her bag for her headache and gulped a couple down with water. The woman next to her turned. ‘You give me!’ She demanded in Pashtu.
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VIEWPOINT April 2016
‘No, no! Your daughter is too young for these tablets. I know,’ said Sara. The woman snatched at the bottle, emptied two tablets into her hand and, forcing open the chicken’s beak, pushed them down its throat. ‘Bird is for my husband’s mother,’ she said. ‘ I visit. I cannot give sick gift.’ The bus slowed and chatter stopped. Sara leaned forward to see trucks ahead and men flagging down the bus. She pulled her burkha around her, making sure she was completely covered. The chicken woman did the same. If this was the Afghan army then she was relatively safe but if it was a tribal band, she could be in peril. Sara felt the sweat trickling between her shoulder blades but then recognised the green, military fatigues as the soldiers entered the bus, their weapons held at waist height. Silence! One of the soldiers stared at Sara and asked a question she didn’t understand. The woman put her arm round Sara and said, ‘Sista.’ The soldier moved away. He stopped by a male passenger, checked his papers and dragged him from his seat. The driver was signalled to move on. Sighing with relief, Sara looked at the woman. ‘Why did you say I was your sister?’ The woman shrugged. ‘You help me. I help you. You make my chicken better.’ ‘Manama,’ (thank you) said Sara, quietly hoping the chicken would survive the aspirin until they had parted company. The journey continued. Children complained; babies cried; men spat out of the window and every now and again, the chicken exercised its wings. The bus stopped once for the ritual of facing Mecca and for coffee to be brewed and a sort of calm ensued until the outskirts of Nad’Ali came into view. Along with the sighting came a heightened sense of fear. This was bandit territory. The fear was justified. Further down, the road
was blocked and the bus was forced to stop. Gunshots raked the blue sky. No soldiers in green uniforms this time. Men in dirty turbans, tunics and pantaloons surrounded the bus and Sara felt herself shaking. Mutterings of ‘Taliban’ resonated inside the vehicle. Sara whipped out her phone praying for a signal and spoke rapidly into it. The rest of the passengers seemed to be praying to Allah. They were pulled one by one out onto the dirt road, the men being separated from the women. Papers were, once again, being looked over and faces stared into. Sara looked around but there was nowhere to hide. Eventually, one of the supposed bandits reached her. Sara kept her eyes to the ground but to no avail. Seeing her blue eyes, he tore the hijab from her head and her blonde hair tumbled for all to see. Defiantly then, she looked straight at him. He lifted his rifle. The ‘rat-tat’ of rapid gunfire, the clattering of rotor blades and the rumble of engine noise came together, descending from the heavens. The man with the gun aimed at Sara fell, as did other members of the hostile gang. The rest ran into the distance to be pursued by the helicopter. British Army armoured vehicles raced towards the bus and its passengers and skidded to a halt. A sergeant ran towards Sara. He didn’t look too pleased. ‘Corporal Sara Jones, Nurse Sara Jones I presume? We’re glad you finally decided to join us. Next time, make sure you catch the bloody plane.’ His tone softened slightly. ‘Expect to be in trouble Corporal but we need nurses and you did make the effort to get here so it won’t be too bad.’ Sara smiled, relieved. ‘Glad you got my phone call in time.’ ‘Come on,’ said the Sergeant, ‘we’ll get you to your base at Camp Bastion.’ A minor disturbance caught Sara’s eye. A woman and two small children were chasing an escaped chicken down the road. She laughed. It looked like they would survive as well.
Fete on the Field
is back!
One of the highlights of the Ferndown community calendar is back this year on Saturday 18 June. Fete on the Field, organised by Ferndown Rotary Club, is a fun-filled day for all the family held on King George V Fields from 11am until 5pm. The varied attractions will include a classic car show and drivepast, live music, model aeroplane flying displays, novelty dog show, dancing, donkey rides, magician, fairground rides, raptor
Um, not sure I want to be friends
Barking
flying displays, charity and craft stalls and refreshments (or bring a picnic). 10k and 5k runs will also start and finish on the field. Entrance is FREE. All profits will go to local charities. George Phillips, President of Ferndown Rotary Club said “Please put the date in your diary and look out for more information on posters and in the local press as we get nearer the big day. We look forward to you joining us.” Organised by East Dorset District Council there were a number of dog-related stalls plus the opportunity to ‘Ask the Vet’. Dogs queued, sometimes noisily, as they waited for their free microchip. Legislation now makes it compulsory to have all dogs in England microchipped.
VIEWPOINT WELCOMES NEW READERS! Thousands of new readers will be receiving Viewpoint Magazine this month. With distribution of this popular community magazine being increased, over 67,000 local people will now be reading each issue – an additional 10,000 readers since last month – and Viewpoint welcomes them all. If you live in Ferndown North, Ringwood, St Leonards & St Ives, Verwood, Fordingbridge and Alderholt and you didn’t get a copy in the past, you might be in for a surprise. Let the publisher MAGS4DORSET know what you think. Email editorial@mags4dorset.co.uk
A first for Beaulieu
Gorgeous George
in the park A fun dog show with free microchipping drew everyone and their dogs to King George V Playing Field in Ferndown on Good Friday. The dog show classes only cost a £1 to enter on the day, with all proceeds going to the Staffie and Stray Rescue Centre.
Ferry big prize Bournemouth Jazz Festival is delighted to announce Brittany Ferries has agreed to award a special travel prize to the winners of the Jazz Factor, a competition for young musicians taking place in the Pavilion Ballroom on Sunday 24 April as part of this year’s Bournemouth Jazz Festival. This unique opportunity will enable the winning entrants to enjoy a free day trip to France, worth over £70, and become music ambassadors for the Bournemouth Jazz Festival this summer. The Jazz Factor contest takes place on
Wendy Stowe Daisy, Freddie and Immy get a hug from the Waggy Tails mascot
Sunday 24 April. There are three categories for young people aged 11-14, 15-18 and 19-24. The only condition is that the musicians must bring their own instruments and have been playing for a year or more. An entry form and more information can be obtained on line at: www. bournemouthjazzfestival.co.uk . The Bournemouth Jazz Festival will take place throughout Bournemouth between 22-24 April. Tickets for various jazz festival performances including Jacqui Dankworth, Tina May and Zoe Schwarz can be booked online: www.bournemouthjazzfestival.co.uk or www.bhlivetickets.co.uk/Online/default.asp .
Bonnie bonnets Easter bonnets worn by children at Witchampton School were the grandest on parade in this tiny village which has a population of just 398
Una (4) and Charley Simpson (5) won the Easter Bonnet competition held at Wimborne Model Town
Mike Nicholls
One of Britain’s first female harbour masters has been appointed to run the Beaulieu River, taking over from Mike Nicholls who retired at the end of March after 42 years working for the estate. Wendy Stowe, who was previously deputy harbour master on the River Hamble, will manage the river and marina with a team of staff and take responsibility for all activities on the privately owned estuary, which is one of only a few in the world. Wendy (aged 42), is the first female harbour master at Beaulieu and one of only a handful in the country. She is a keen sailor and races yachts in her spare time. She said: “I am privileged to live and work in such a stunning location and to manage the beautiful Beaulieu River. “My challenge will be to keep pace with modern demands, which make it a popular boating destination, while keeping its natural charm and unique character.” Russell Bowman, Managing Director for the Beaulieu River, said he was delighted to welcome Wendy to her role and grateful to Mike for so many years at the helm. Mike is a professional skipper with more than 40 years experience on the river. Ten of those have been as the Beaulieu River’s harbour master from its mouth at Lepe to Mill Dam at Beaulieu, bordering the edge of the Beaulieu Estate. One of Wendy’s first tasks will be to oversee changes at Buckler’s Hard Boatyard, which came under Beaulieu River management from the start of March. The Harbour Master’s staff will be running lift-out and storage services at the boatyard in future. Four centuries of custodianship by the forebears of Lord Montagu have ensured that the Beaulieu River remains an unspoilt haven, which is rich in wildlife and history and where riverside development and the number of moorings at Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour are carefully controlled. Situated in the heart of the New Forest National Park, it has a coveted top rating of five Gold Anchors and has 115 marina berths, over 300 moorings and a boat park with slipway. For further information on the Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour, visit www.beaulieuriver.co.uk
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| 27
Photo courtesy of Priest’s House Museum
Waste recycling centres’ costs MUST BE CUT
Relive the golden age of railways It’s 50 years since the Somerset & Dorset Railway, which passed through Wimborne, Broadstone and Sturminster Marshall closed. To mark the anniversary, the Somerset and Dorset Railway Trust has been given £58,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund ‘Our Heritage’ to fund a programme of travelling exhibitions, outdoor arts events, talks, walks and family friendly activities. The ‘S&D 50’ touring exhibition will be on display at the Priest’s House Museum & Garden in Wimborne Minster until 2 May. On Saturday, 5 March 1966, whistles and explosions shattered the peace of towns and villages through Somerset & Dorset. Railwaymen were paying their last respects to Somerset & Dorset Railway. As the final service train passed many of the stations, detonators were placed every few yards
along the track and the locomotive’s whistle sounded almost continuously. The railway ran from Bath across the Mendips and through Dorset to Bournemouth, with branch lines across the Somerset levels to Burnham-on-Sea, Bridgwater and Wells. It was one of Britain’s best-loved railways, famous for its charm, quirky character and beautiful scenery, The exhibition will explore the impact of the railway on local communities from its development, through its working life, since closure and also the work of the S&DRT in preserving and promoting its heritage. The Somerset & Dorset Railway Trust is based at Washford Station on the West Somerset Railway. For further details visit www.sdrt.org or call 07947 665961.
Register to vote
Councils are encouraging local people to make sure they are registered to vote at both the Police and Crime Commissioner elections on 5 May and the Referendum on the UK’s membership of the European Union on 23 June. To be able to vote in the elections on 5 May, residents must register by 18 April. Registering for the May elections will also mean that voters are registered in good time before the referendum on 23 June. Bob Jackson, chief executive and electoral registration officer of New Forest District Council, said, “Time is running out to make sure you can take part in the Police and Crime Commissioner elections, so I’d encourage everyone to take action now if they’re not already registered to vote. It’s easy and only takes a few minutes online - www.gov. uk/register-to-vote. You will need your national insurance number and date of birth so be sure to have these to hand when you log on.”
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VIEWPOINT April 2016
Cuts have to be made in Hampshire Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs) service. Councillor Seán Woodward, executive member for economy, transport and environment has revealed that the county can no longer afford to run the HWRCs to the current standard. A public consultation has been launched to ask residents how they think savings can best be made. Cllr Woodward said: “The cuts the Government has made to Hampshire’s grant are now so severe that we simply cannot afford to carry on as before. The county council had been planning to make savings to meet a £98 million funding shortfall by April 2017, but when the Government announced its funding plans for local authorities for the next three years, Hampshire lost £48 million more this year than had been anticipated. “It is, therefore, vital that we make sure the resources we have in Hampshire are focused on where they can make the most impact, and how we deal with Hampshire’s waste is part of this. We are now in a position where we need to establish how we can run the HWRC service with a much smaller budget in a way that is financially sustainable for Hampshire council taxpayers in the long term.” HCC currently operates a network of 24 sites, which are open seven days a week, except for Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Cllr Woodward added: “This consultation is a genuine opportunity for people to tell us how they think a different and more affordable model can be established. He confirmed: “No decisions will be made until we have looked at all the evidence and taken people’s views into consideration.” More details at www.hants.gov.uk/hwrc2016 Paper copies from 0300 555 1389 or email hwrc. consultation@hants.gov.uk. The deadline for responses is midday on 25 May.
700
bags of rubbish
COLLECTED
‘for the Queen’ Half a canoe and a rubber duck were just some of the most unusual items found when hundreds of volunteers took part in litter picks across the New Forest as part of the Clean for The Queen. The tidy-up from 4-6 March, which got communities spending a few hours litter picking together in the run up to the Queen’s 90th birthday, was supported by New Forest District Council, New Forest National Park Authority, the Forestry Commission and the Verderers of The New Forest. Cllr Sophie Beeton, NFDC portfolio holder for the environment said: “Thank you to everybody that gave a few hours of their time to give the New Forest a spring clean and to the event organisers that made it happen. The response has been brilliant with volunteers collecting more than 700 bags of litter over the weekend from beaches, villages and the forest.” Other finds included engine parts and a shopping basket. Bruce Rothnie, deputy surveyor for the Forestry Commission South England Forest District, said: “Caring for the core of the Forest, known as the Crown Lands, and its unique wildlife is central to the Forestry Commission and that’s why we supported Clean for The Queen. Thank you to everyone who got involved. It was a great demonstration of community spirit and care for the New Forest. Both the Forest and the people who enjoy it will benefit from this tremendous effort.”
Volunteers needed
Verwood Solar Farm Committee needs two local volunteers to join the steering committee. CVs and covering letter should be sent to verwoodtc@btconnect.com by 30 April.
BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY
advertising features
It’s time to turn your
HOUSE HOME into a
The arrival of spring with sunny days and bright flowers traditionally encourages people to get on with spring-cleaning.
But it is also the time when many residents’ thoughts turn to improving their homes. Whether it’s kitchens or bathrooms, bedrooms or basements, fixtures and fittings or even gardens and the latest gadgets to make life easier – there is always something, which can be done. Some jobs are cosmetic, some needed because of wear and tear while other people want to transform their houses with the latest fashions. Whatever the reason, it’s the perfect time for home improvements. Additionally no house is complete without the finishing internal touches that make it a home. Many people will have headed up to Olympia in London to look for inspiration at The Ideal Home Show, which ran from 18 March to 3 April. Just in case you didn’t get there, Viewpoint Magazine is bringing you the latest ideas featured at the show.
BE INSPIRED BY THE SHOW HOMES AT THE IDEAL HOME SHOW
Continued on p31
As in the past, crowds were drawn to the show homes and this year there were three to visit. Ever wanted a couple more hours in the day? This year’s Ideal Home Show featured the Time Saving Home, a house filled with dedicated time-saving kit. With some of the best technologically advanced products available on the market, the house showed how to save time in our daily lives. By researching everything from the most time consuming daily chores, to the latest innovations in speedy cooking – the Ideal Home Show presented all the fastest products available under one roof. By taking a tour of the house visitors learnt how to save up to 21 hours per week, giving them time back to do the things that they enjoy. By exploring the Time Saving Home visitors discovered lots of domestic shortcuts - from the robotic vacuum and self-cleaning grill to technology that locks up for you.
The Ideal Home Show was opened by celebrity ambassadors, George Clarke, Laurence LlewelynBowen, Katie Piper, Suzi Perry, Martin Lewis and Gregg Wallace Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news
| 29
BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY
advertising features
Broomhill Solablaze Solablaze is proud to Garden Buildings announce that it has just
Broomhill Garden Buildings offers an extensive moved into Broomhill Garden Buildings in Somerford where range of buildings in all styles and sizes. staff will be on hand to offer A lovely summerhouse or log cabin can Christchurch and here the business rapidly really enhance the beauty of your garden expanded with over 70 buildings on display expert and friendly advice. and provide you with extra living space including conservatories, greenhouses, throughout the whole year, providing practical solutions and creating beautiful environments. Established since 1993, the company was originally located at Stewarts Garden Centre in God’s Blessing Lane, Broomhill, hence the name. The opportunity then arose for the business to relocate to the busy Stewarts Garden Centre in
summerhouses, sheds, log cabins, garden offices, playhouses, car ports and garages. Martin Penny, company director says, “Although we are a small family business, we feel confident that we can offer our customers not only competitive prices but more importantly, a personal service and a strong team of knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff and advise customers.
Join the garden revolution – the options are endless
30 |
VIEWPOINT April 2016
At Solablaze whilst the range bears no relationship whatsoever to solar powered products, the word ‘Sola’ is however very important as products are associated with the sun. Simply put, the products whether indoor or out enable the user to experience the warmth and the feeling of sitting in the sun whenever and wherever they switch them on, instantly.
The range of S1 and D1 heaters use exactly the same infrared range as part of the sun’s heat and it reaches customers in the same way. The only difference is, they don’t get tanned, but just experience a pleasant warming feeling and the same release of serotonin as the sun gives them. Come along and view the range of products at the new showroom.
BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY
Green Unitfeatures Eco homes advertising
Want to break from the conventional? The ARC show home was designed by Green Unit Eco modular homes. This was the one for visitors who wanted a home that would eventually earn them money by selling energy back to the grid. Taking a leap away from the normal, The ARC was constructed from individual modules that can be designed and configured in any arrangement. Each module is hand crafted and made from natural and low impact building materials, making it one of the ‘greenest’ homes out there! This aesthetically beautiful design is class-leading in energy performance.
Maybe it’s time to live eco
Update your interior with the latest trends and colour palettes? The Traditional British Home showed how you can revive your interior with a 21st century twist. Styled by TV interior designer Linda Barker, the house was the place to go to learn what’s hot in 2016. Featuring everything from the homely elegance of a simplistic lounge to the traditional family kitchen, visitors were welcome to explore the four bedrooms too, including the Bohemian girl’s bedroom, boy’s safari room and even a teenage girl’s woodland retreat. This house was packed full for ideas and inspiration for your home’s next makeover. Continued on p32
Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news
| 31
BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY
advertising features
Inspiring room sets The Ideal Home Show also featured room sets for the first time. Stylist Kate McPhee and Good Homes style editor Alison Lovett designed six inspiring schemes – all influenced by the theme of bringing the outdoors in and featuring the latest decorating trends, seasonal colours and on-trend furniture. They used a fresh palette of sage, peach, crisp green and gorgeous oyster, with dramatic splashes of matt black and timeless teal to add the wow factor. These were paired with elements of whitewashed and pale-oak furniture, all finished with the season’s botanical and woodland motifs for a modern, spring feel. The room sets also used the latest looks and shopping buys from high street stores and supermarkets.
The Super Theatre Interiors ambassador Laurence Llewlyn Bowen brought some glamour to the Super Theatre. By taking pictures of visitors’ homes from their phone and putting them onto the Home Truths screen, he gave homes the makeover of a lifetime. Renowned interior designer Linda Barker was at the Super Theatre showing how to replicate any of the looks in her show home in visitors’ homes.
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VIEWPOINT April 2016
BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY
advertising features
The winning design
Talented young gardeners Students from six of the UK’s top landscaping and horticultural colleges competed for the title of Ideal Young Gardeners of the Year by designing and building beautiful, sustainable show gardens. The Young Gardeners competition aims to champion young green talent and give students first-hand experience of creating professional show gardens from scratch. Each college is given a 5.5m x 4m plot and a brief for the design and components. The real challenge is that students have just five days to plant and construct their gardens. The judges Alan Titchmarsh and David Domony took a long time choosing their favourites, and the results were close. They described all the gardens as very different and extremely high quality. The best at show trophy was won by Askham Bryan College, York. Students created a contemporary woodland garden with trees, spring plants, lush wall planters and timber features. Judges called the garden ‘a delight’ and praised the creativity and gorgeous plants. They were also impressed by the display of traditional skills and homes for wildlife.
Don’t miss out
Inspired and can’t wait to until next year’s London Ideal Home Show to get more ideas? Well two more shows are being held in 2016. The first is in Glasgow from 27-30 May, while the second is a lot nearer in Manchester from 2-5 June.
Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news
| 33
BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY
advertising features
Enjoy a meal on
COM P ETITI
ON
VIEWPOINT MAGAZINE! VIEWPOINT MAGAZINE is offering readers a chance to win a £60 voucher that
can be redeemed when dining out at one of the restaurants on this double-page feature. Imagine arriving at the restaurant of your choice, ordering a meal with drinks and then getting £60 deducted off your bill. It could mean you dine out for nothing! There are no catches. It’s a straightforward cash discount paid for by VIEWPOINT MAGAZINE.
All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning is solve these clues, which are anagrams of the names of the pubs and restaurants found on these pages. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
£60
Cumin angel noon Corn beneath tin ran Held it not In tie Therewith hat! Foe lass In bath online Inherits gnus Ice hills elate
List your answers in the same order as shown here and send to Dining Out With Viewpoint, MAGS4DORSET, First Floor, King George V Pavilion, Peter Grant Way, Ferndown, Dorset, BH22 9EN. Get your answer to us by 29 April 2016. The first correct answer drawn will be the winner. There is no cash alternative. The voucher is not transferable and if not used for the purchase of a meal within 30 days of issue, is valued at £0.000p. Employees of Pulford Publicity are not permitted to enter. The editor’s decision is final.
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VIEWPOINT April 2016
advertising features
BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY
Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news
| 35
MONTHLY HOROSCOPES with RUSSELL GRANT APRIL 2016
ARIES March 21 - April 20 Your ability to wheel and deal will be very strong during the second half of the month. Resist the urge to overindulge or you could become tired and listless. It’s important to look your best at work. The Full Moon on the 22nd marks an exciting turning point in an intimate relationship.
As May approaches, there will be power in numbers. LEO July 24 - August 23 The Full Moon on the 22nd will mark an improvement to your home life. You could move to a nicer place or add a relative or roommate to your household. This base of operations will make it easier to improve your job prospects during the closing days of the month.
TAURUS April 21 - May 21 On the 22nd, the Full Moon will help you and your partner form a united front. If you’re single, you could meet your soul mate in a club, a nightclub, an environmental group or even an antique shop. Splash out on some new clothes or a makeover as May approaches.
VIRGO August 24 - September 23 Good news about a loved one’s job will arrive on the 22nd. Go out and celebrate this marvellous turn of events. Try not to be resentful of their success. Their progress is the result of a team effort. Taking pleasure in their happiness will make you more attractive to positive energy.
GEMINI May 22 - June 21 Don’t hesitate to accept an entry level position around the 22nd, when the Full Moon will send some intriguing work your way. You might be serving as an assistant to an important artist, producer or gallery owner. CANCER June 22 - July 23 A creative project will come to fruition on the 22nd, courtesy of the Full Moon. This impressive performance will pave the way for more lucrative opportunities. Getting paid for your artwork will be the answer to a prayer. You might decide to get involved with an artists’ collective as a means to showcase your work.
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VIEWPOINT April 2016
LIBRA September 24 - October 23 An intense flirtation will fill you with excitement during the second half of the month. It’s fun to banter with someone who is as witty and intelligent as you. The Full Moon on the 22nd will draw some extra money into your bank account. Take this opportunity to splash out on clothes, jewellery and toiletries. Luxury products are as essential as food and water to you. SCORPIO October 24 - November 22 The Full Moon on the 22nd invites you to spoil yourself. Splash out on some luxuries and give yourself a treat or two. Propose an idea for a new product or service as May approaches. Originality will set you apart from the crowd. Buy your best friend or romantic partner a beautiful token of your appreciation.
SAGITTARIUS November 23 - December 21 Your health will undergo a dramatic improvement in the second half of April, thanks to a new fitness regime. Resist the urge to adopt a rigorous exercise routine. Slow and steady wins the race. On the 22nd, the Full Moon will prompt you to get some rest and relaxation. Even a social butterfly like you needs to recharge your batteries from time to time. Finding a steady job is a strong possibility in the closing days of April. CAPRICORN December 22 - January 20 On the 22nd, you should attend a party. Your magnetism will turn heads and attract admirers. Prepare to make some powerful friends. You will find someone with a foreign accent particularly charming. The two of you will make a great team. AQUARIUS January 21 - February 19 An exciting career opportunity will arrive on the 22nd. Working for a focused executive will be a welcome change of pace. You’re tired of taking orders from disorganised people who lack vision. You’ll have a chance to buy some beautiful furniture and artwork as April turns to May. Don’t hesitate to splash out on quality items. PISCES February 20 - March 20 When given a choice between taking a flat salary and earning a commission, choose the latter. You’ll easily outperform the competition. Advertising and social media will be key components to your success. A captivating blend of words and images will drive new business to your door. Be relentless about getting the word out. Vector Graphics by VectorOpenStock.com
in and around the area
Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news
| 37
in and around the area
what’s on
this month 16-17 April
ThunderCat Racing, Bournemouth seafront. 01202 451734
16 April 10am-12noon
Grandma’s Attic event Crowe Hill WI Hall, Crow near Ringwood to raise money for Crowe Hill Methodist Church. Entry free. 01425 470310
16 April 11am-7pm
Busker Bash for Cash, Wimborne. Buskers in 4 locations play to win votes. Top six play in final at Allendale Centre. 01202 886116
16 April 7.30pm
The Fayrewood Singers, Verwood, spring concert ‘Music For You’ at Verwood Methodist Church. Songs from the choir and music from guests. Tickets £5. 01202 884248
16 April 7.30pm
Grange Choral Society and Decadent Brass mark Queen’s 90th birthday with ‘the best of British music’, Christchurch Priory. 01202 399139
18 April 9.30-10.30am
Kingston Lacy out of hours guided walk, 3 miles, including areas not normally accessible. Meet Kingston Lacy car park. 01202 883402
18 April 7.30-9pm
Verwood Choral Society meets St Michael’s and All Angels Church, Verwood, every Monday. 01202 820941
19 April 6-10pm
Dream Machines, up to 2,000 motorbike enthusiasts gather at Poole Quay. Every Tuesday until end of September. 01202 262600
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VIEWPOINT April 2016
Details were correct at the time of going to print but readers are advised to check before attending events
19 April 7.30pm
Verwood Historical Society, Bonny Sartin talks on the life of the tall ship ‘The Grace Harwar’. St Michael’s Parish Centre, Manor Road. 01202 824175
21 April 8pm
Verwood Jazz Club present Chris Pearce’s Frenchmen Street Jazz Band, The Albion Inn, Station Road, Verwood. 01202 825267
22-24 April
Bournemouth Jazz Festival, venues around Bournemouth. 07710 611123
23 April 10am-4pm Plant fair, Knoll Gardens, Hampreston. 01202 870842
23 April 8pm
The Bernie Farrenden Duo at The Nelson Tavern, 75 Mudeford, Christchurch. 01202 485105
23 April 11am-5pm
RNLI college’s food and drink festival. West Quay Road, Poole. 01202 663489
23 April 7pm
Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra concert For England and St George – celebrate life of the Queen on her 90th birthday with patriotic favourites including ‘Pomp and Circumstance’ and ‘Greensleeves’. Bournemouth Pavilion. 0844 5763000
24 April 9am-4.30pm Beaulieu Boat Jumble. Tickets on 01590 612888
24 April 11am-4pm Classic car rally and charity day, main beach car park, Swanage. 01929 288092
27 April 10am-12noon
Discover the wildlife of Parley Common, part of The Great Heath Living Landscape, with Amphibian & Reptile Conservation (ARC) and DWT. Children must be accompanied by adults. 01202 391319. Suggested donation £3. Meet at the reserve entrance beside the Heatherlands Centre, Barns Road, Ferndown.
27 April 7.30pm
Verwood Keyboard Society presents Mark Thompson playing a Yamaha EL90 at Verwood Hub. 01202 822936
30 April 10am
Wimborne tractor road run and rally from Coach and Horses, Wimborne in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support. 07765 511381
30 April 7.30pm
Southampton Choral Society concert conducted by Peter Gambie to celebrate Queen’s 90th birthday. Music associated with monarchs. St Peter and St Paul Church, Ringwood. 023 8073 3653
2 May 10am-6pm
Blandford Georgian Fayre. 01258 453955
4-7 May 7.30pm
Poole and Parkstone Productions present 42nd Street at Lighthouse, Poole. Matinee 7 May 2.30pm. 07783 068373
4 May 11am
‘An illustrated tram talk, through Bournemouth’s early 20th century’, Paul Miles. Bournemouth library. 01202 454844
4 May 12.15pm
Ferndown Probus Club meets at Dudsbury Golf Club, Ferndown for lunch followed by talk on ‘The Schneider Trophy’. 01202 875757
4 May 7pm
The Fireside Theatre, East Dorset branch, meets at members’ home for play reading of ‘The Chalk Garden’ by Enid Bagnold. Carol and Richard Sharples 01202 829978
4-5 May 8pm
Shot at Dawn by BAFTA award winning scriptwriter John Foster. First World War Dorsetshire Regiment soldiers on trial for cowardice. Guildhall, Poole. 01202 280000
5 May 1pm
Eat and meet lunch with quiz for anyone alone who would enjoy some company, Royal British Legion Ferndown Club, Church Road. In association with Douch & Son. Members £3, non-members £6. Book on 01202 877706 or email admin@rblferndown.org
6-8 May
Diesel gala and beer festival Swanage Railway. 01929 425800
7 May 10am
West Moors Horticultural Society plant sale, West Moors Memorial Hall. 01202 871536
7 May 2pm
Ibsley and District Horticultural Society annual plant sale, Ibsley Village Hall.
7 May 7.30pm
Bournemouth and Mousehole Male Voice Choirs joint concert at St Mary’s Church, Ferndown to raise money for John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation. 07792 121645
9 May 7.30pm
Wimborne Horticultural Society, ‘Brownsea Island’ by National Trust speaker. Allendale Centre, Wimborne. 01202 887006
11 May 10.30am-12.15pm
‘South West Ambulance Service’ talk by Martyn Callow in The Scout Hall, off Station Road, Wimborne, in support of The Wimborne Stroke Support Group. 01202 884737
11 May 7.30pm
Bournemouth Electric Camera Club, ‘Through the Lens of Jack Boskett’, Broadway Park Sports and Community Club, Bournemouth. 07850 335746
12 May 7.30pm
Verwood and 3LX Twinning Association, talk by Tony Bates ‘Fauna and flora in the Australian outback’. Heathland Heritage Centre. 01202 826449
12 May 7.30pm
Verwood and District Horticultural Society, talk by Totty Cruttenden ‘Beekeeping’. Memorial Hall. 01202 814376
14 May 10am-5pm
Mini steam rally on Poole Quay. 01202 262600
14 May 7pm
Inner Wheel Club of Ferndown charity quiz night, West Moors Memorial Hall. Proceeds to groups including food bank and The Heal Project. Tickets £10 including food. Tables of eight. Apply for tickets before 26 April. 01202 875446
17 May 7.30pm
Verwood Historical Society, Ronnie Taylor illustrated talk ‘From Stourhead to Stanpit’. St Michael’s Parish Centre, Manor Road. 01202 824175
in and around the area
COM P ETITI
ON
Oh, what a night
If you love the music of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons this is your chance to relive the music, which made the group one of the biggest sellers of all time. The New Jersey Boys, based in Plymouth, are coming to the Barrington Theatre in Ferndown to take their audience on a nostalgic musical journey through the career of The Four Seasons. This choreographed show on 13 May at 7.30pm, featuring the amazing falsetto voice of Einar Vestman and the talented all round entertainer Gary Gould. It is a clever mixture of tight vocal harmonies, superb solo spots and light comedy. The packed two set programme includes all the hits such as ‘Sherry’, ‘Big Girls Don’t Cry’, ‘Walk Like a Man’ and many more. This is a wonderful opportunity to see where it all began, when four boys from New Jersey, USA invented their own unique sound, which became a worldwide success. MAGS4DORSET and The Barrington have two tickets to be won to see this popular group.
To be in with a chance of winning the tickets answer this question:
What word is missing from the title of this Four Seasons hit ‘Working My Way Back to …’?
Wimborne art collection in the spotlight The national importance of the Bankes’ art collection at Kingston Lacy will be revealed at a talk in Wimborne. Helen Lange is giving a talk on ‘Kingston Lacy’s Paintings: The Story of One of the National Trust’s Important Art Collections’ on Tuesday 26 April at 7.30pm at the Priest’s House. She will include a brief background on art collecting during the reign of Charles I. The talk will then trace the history of the Bankes collection, from its beginnings at Corfe Castle and the role of Sir Ralph Bankes, through the hugely significant contributions of William John Bankes in the 19th century. The talk will focus on several individual paintings, which have their own stories to tell.
Booking is essential. Proceeds will go towards the care and conservation of the Priest’s House Museum’s collections. A new exhibition ‘Scenes of Wimborne and East Dorset’ featuring watercolour paintings by the artist W J Hawker will run until 2 July. Little is known about the artist. However, the recent discovery that a photographic board had been used as a mount for one of the paintings offers a clue.
WINNERS Beaulieu Easter: James Crumpton of Sturminster Newton and Kim Dillon from Southampton. Answer Lewis Carroll. Breaking the Code: Mike Terry and Christine Jones both from Fordingbridge and Heather Ellis from Winchester. Answer Bletchley Park. Bootleg Floyd: Denise Hawes from Poole. Answer - dark side. Upbeat Beatles: S Frampton, Mannington. Answer - New York.
Enter at: www.mags4dorset.co.uk or on a postcard to The New Jersey Boys, MAGS4DORSET, 1st Floor, King George V Pavilion, Peter Grant Way, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9EN. Closing date is 1 May 2016. The first correct entry drawn will be the winner. Employees of Pulford Publicity Ltd and The Barrington Theatre are not permitted to enter. There is no cash alternative. The editor’s decision is final.
Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news
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motoring
Treat dad
TO A DAY OUT For a treat on Father’s Day, get fired up at Beaulieu’s Hot Rod & Custom Drive-In Day on Sunday 19 June Celebrating the stylish and vibrant world of customised cars and bikes, this event will bring together hundreds of incredible, unique machines and showcase the live music and fashions of the custom scene. More than 500 custom, hot rod and American cars and bikes are expected to drive into the Beaulieu grounds to take part in the colourful display, in association with classic American car club, the Solent Renegades. There will be plenty for bike and trike fans too, from mega-powered machines to astonishing pedal-powered models. For the first time this year, Daltons Transport will bring a collection of its lorries with amazing airbrush artwork. Bows & Braces will create a Vintage Village with authentic clothes from the 1920s to the 1980s and nostalgic home decoration including upcycled furniture and more. There will be prizes for the bestdressed man and woman, family or group.
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VIEWPOINT April 2016
For those attending the show in a pre-1980 classic, the classic paddock parking zone is your opportunity to join the show. In the afternoon, prizes will be awarded to the best custom car, best American car, best hot rod, best bike and best in show, while show-goers will be able to vote for their favourite vehicle. Special event admission tickets are available at discounted prices. Advance tickets, available until 3 June, cost £15 an adult, £8 a child and a family ticket at £42.50. If you own a relevant vehicle and would like to join the show, email details of your car or bike to events@beaulieu.co.uk for
consideration, or phone 01590 614614. Please note that vehicle entry is at the discretion of the event organisers. Participant tickets, for those attending the event in a qualifying vehicle, cost £8 adult and £4 child in advance, or £10 an adult and £5 a child on the day. With participant tickets, one child goes free when accompanied by a paying adult. Participants attending in a qualifying vehicle can camp for free on the Saturday night but must book in advance. For more information, visit www.beaulieu.co.uk/events or join the conversation with @ Beaulieu_Hants on Twitter, with #hotrodday and #vintagevillage.
motoring
Wales charts lowest for cheap pothole repairs The poor condition of the nation’s roads has hit drivers’ finances hard over the last 12 months, a new study has revealed. Research for Kwik Fit, the UK’s largest automotive servicing and repair company, has found that in the last year British motorists have had to fund repair bills totalling £684million as a result of damage caused by hitting potholes. Across the country, 6.3million drivers suffered damage from hitting potholes, with motorists having to pay out an average of £108.60 for repairs to tyres, wheels, suspension, exhausts or other bodywork. The vast majority of this financial burden is falling on motorists – the Annual Local Authority Road Maintenance (ALARM) survey, published last month (March), reveals that only £13.5m has been paid out in compensation in England and Wales, just 2.1% of the total cost of damage. Kwik Fit found that collectively, the greatest financial impact has been on drivers in the South East, who have had to pay a whopping
£108,149,130 for repairs caused by potholes, followed by drivers in London, with the capital’s roads causing £91,368,450 worth of damage. Per individual driver, the costliest damage was suffered in the east of England, where drivers had to pay an average of £163.68, nearly three times as much as drivers in Wales, where the average repair bill was £61.83. Welsh drivers have collectively faced the lowest bill of all regions at £12.4million, less than half the cost to drivers in the north east of England, the second lowest region. Roger Griggs, communications director at Kwik Fit, said: “We all understand that council budgets are stretched right across the country, but this research shows the financial burden being placed upon individual motorists. And that’s purely the repair bill - it doesn’t take into account the inconvenience to people in having their cars off the road for repairs. One pothole can cause misery for countless motorists, so it’s vital that local authorities make it as easy as possible for people to report the presence of a pothole. But we would also encourage drivers to do their bit by reporting the ones they see and not relying on others to do it. “Fortunately not everyone who hits a pothole suffers damage, but alloy wheels and low profile tyres make our cars more vulnerable to costly repairs when we do. Sometimes
damage won’t appear obvious immediately, so we encourage anyone who has hit a pothole to keep checking their tyres and wheels in the days afterwards.” If you have any concern visit your local centre and get your tyres checked out.
Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news
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specialist services AERIAL & SATELLITE INSTALLERS
AERIAL & SATELLITE INSTALLERS
AIRPORT TRANSFERS
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DECORATING
BLINDS
BUILDING & REPAIRS
CARAVAN ACCESSORIES
ELECTRICAL SERVICES
CARAVAN SERVICING
VIEWPOINT April 2016
specialist services FENCING
FITTED FURNITURE
FENCING
GARAGE DOORS
GARAGE DOORS
GARDENING SERVICES
GARDENING SERVICES
HOUSE CLEARANCE
LOCKSMITH
Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news
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specialist services MAINTENANCE
GRAPHIC DESIGN
PLUMBING & HEATING
STORAGE
SHUTTERS
TILING
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VIEWPOINT April 2016
TREE SURGERY
specialist services TREE SURGERY
TREE SURGERY
WINDOW REPAIRS
WINDOW REPAIRS
WINDOW REPAIRS
WINDOW REPAIRS
WINDOW REPAIRS
Shelling out for the ultimate Easter egg Thought your chocolate Easter eggs were expensive? Compare this with how much the Russian Tsars paid for their Fabergé eggs. Tsars commissioned 50 jewelbedecked eggs as Easter gifts for the Tsarinas. The first Imperial egg was produced in 1885 on the orders of Alexander III, and Maria Feodorovna, the Tsarina, was so fond of these eggs that the Tsar appointed Peter Carl Fabergé to the Royal Warrant. Nicholas II took over the tradition and went on to provide the unique Easter
gifts both to his wife, Alexandra and the widowed Tsarina, his mother. Each egg opened to reveal an extravagant surprise. Maria Feodorovna took one egg in 1918 when she left the country, others were lost during the Russian Revolution. Stalin sold 14 eggs to raise money. In WW2 eggs were traded for food. Recently an American scrap dealer bought an egg in a flea market, which turned out to be one of the then eight missing Fabergé eggs. Seven of the eggs are still missing with
the remaining 43 in collections in Russia, America, Germany, Qatar and Monaco. Three are owned by the Queen and there are 10 Imperial eggs in the Kremlin museum in Moscow.
One of the most expensive was the 1913 Winter Egg, which was invoiced at 24,600 roubles (then £2,460). This equates to about £2.36 million at today’s prices.
Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements
June 2015
Pulford Publicity Limited (“the Publisher”) reserves the right to refuse publication of any advertisement without notice or explanation. Whilst the Publisher will endeavour to represent the best interests of the client in undertaking client’s instructions, it is fully understood that it is the agreed responsibility of the client to supply Viewpoint Magazine accurate copy details of the advertisement(s) to be placed and any alterations to the copy must be received prior to copy date. Guarantee of insertion cannot be given and the Publisher shall not be liable for any loss or damage caused by any error or inaccuracy in the printing of an advertisement or by the total or partial failure, however caused, of publication or distribution of Viewpoint Magazine. In no case shall the total liablility of the Publisher for any misprint, error or omission exceed the price charged by the Publisher for that advertisement. The Publisher shall not be liable for any damage or loss save as stated and, in particular, the Publisher shall have no liability to the Advertiser in any circumstances for any claim for damages to, loss, of, or costs in respect of any anticipated profits, revenues, business opportunities or for any other indirect or consequential loss. Claims for any error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement must be made within 10 days of publication to the Administration Department. Advertisers are requested to check their advertisements after the first insertion. The Publisher will not be responsible for any errors on subsequent insertions, which have not been advised to them. Cancellation of an advertisement must be advised in writing 28 days prior to copy date. Unless agreed otherwise in writing by the Publisher the terms of payment for credit accounts are 10 days from date of invoice. Any discount, which the Publisher may have agreed with the advertiser will be forfeited in the event of failure by the advertiser to meet these credit terms. All rates quoted are subject to VAT at the current rate in force at the time the advertisement appears. Copyright of advertisements produced wholly by the Publisher belongs to the Publisher. Advertisers may not reproduce such advertisments without the Publisher’s consent. Full details of copy dates are obtainable direct from Viewpoint Magazine and/or its representatives. The placing of an order for an advertisment shall amount to acceptance of these Terms and Conditions. Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news
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ASK THE
EXPERT
Remember to Pull the Plug www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/pulltheplug #PullThePlug.
Nolan Irving
Q. We’ve seen a house we like, but we’re concerned that it might be more difficult to sell later on, because the garden isn’t south-facing. Is orientation important? A. The orientation of a property’s garden is an
important consideration to many purchases but not everyone actually wants a south-facing garden. There is a widespread perception that somehow, south-facing properties are always best. However, the plain fact is that they’re not – or at least, not always – because they don’t suit everyone. Whichever way a property faces has its advantages and disadvantages, depending on your lifestyle – and the size of the garden, of course. The main thing in favour of a southerly aspect, for example, is the sun. Yet, for many people, this can be a real drawback. We’ve all been in homes where you simply can’t sit in the south-facing conservatory because it’s like an oven – even with all the windows and doors open, the roof blinds drawn, and the ceiling fan going at full speed. In the heat of the day, a nice, cool north-facing garden can be a real treat – particularly when filled with shade-loving plants and the soothing sound of running water. Pet-owners and those with young children will often prefer a northerly or easterly-facing garden because it provides some
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VIEWPOINT April 2016
shade from the mid-day sun and a good balance of sun and shade depending on the time of day. The other consideration is the other features that the property offers and also the internal layout of the property. For a lot of potential buyers having the sun beaming into their principal rooms is actually more of a priority than the orientation of the garden. If there is such a thing as the ideal orientation, then my personal preference would be for east-west. That way, you not only get all the benefit of the early morning sun, but also the very best of those balmy summer evenings. That said, however – and everything else being equal, of course - I would never let the orientation of a property dictate my choice. And neither, I would suggest, would everyone else. So, my advice is, if you really like the property and all that it offers, then go ahead and buy it, before someone else does.
Nolan Irving, Irving & Sons Estate Agent of Verwood
Simulated fire
An estimated 650,000 house fires in the UK have been caused by a straightener or similar device being left on. Pull the Plug is a new campaign launched by Electrical Safety First to remind people to switch off their beauty appliances after use. Electrical Safety First research has found that one in 12 women have left a beauty appliance switched on. People aged between 18 and 24 are particularly at risk with one in three having been burnt by an electrical beauty appliance. The research also shows that over 200,000 people in this age group have experienced a house fire caused by an electrical beauty appliance. Straighteners can reach temperatures of more than 235C and can take up to 40 minutes to cool down. Assistant Chief Officer Steve Foye, head of community safety at Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We’ve tested the dangers of hair straighteners with Electrical Safety First to show what can happen when they are left on and unattended. We captured this on film and we hope that this illustrates the risks and reminds people of the importance of switching these appliances off.”