Viewpoint January 2015

Established Over 35 Years Mid Jan 2015

Helping children

Your Independent Local Magazine

VIEWPOINT

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Inside

Volume 39, Issue 3

VERWOOD RINGWOOD FORDINGBRIDGE WEST MOORS WIMBORNE ASHLEY HEATH ST IVES, ALDERHOLT

Free take on e it’s

• THE PRODUC ERS AT THE BA RRINGTON COMPETITION

The 26th annual Save the Children parade in Wimborne on 13 December raised almost £3,000 for the charity’s work supporting vulnerable children in the UK and abroad.

For more pictures see page 7 3rd and 5th Wimborne Brownies dressed as Oompa Loompas gave out sweets to the crowds

• BRENDA THRE ADS HER WAY TO WESTMINSTE

R ABBEY • WEST MOOR S LEGACY AWAR D WINNER ANNOUNCED • RELAY FOR LIFE IS MAGS4D ORSET’S CHARITY OF THE YEAR

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VIEWPOINT January 2015

editorial

Vol 39 • Issue 3

VIEWPOINT MAGAZINE 01202 870270 editor

janine pulford

editorial@mags4dorset.co.uk

assistant editor

liz turner

news@mags4dorset.co.uk

managing director

ben pulford

design@mags4dorset.co.uk

design director

louis pulford design4dorset@btconnect.com

graphic designer

daniel lee

design4dorset@btconnect.com

account managers

mark beechey

sales@mags4dorset.co.uk

07875 962344

russell harness

advertise@mags4dorset.co.uk

01202 816140

company secretary

nick pulford

accounts4dorset@btconnect.com

HelloReaders

Happy New Year to you all - although by mid January, the festivities should be beginning to feel like a distant memory.

Everything is getting back to normal in the Turner household – my daughter has returned to London and my son to his studies. It’s been wonderful having them home and the house does seem very quiet and empty now.

With spring just around the corner and the first daffodils and snowdrops making an appearance , there’s plenty to look forward to. Spring cleaning is not one of these however, and as my vacuum cleaner has been away being repaired since 24 November, this is going to be a major undertaking.

A carpet of pine needles is normally found in forests not on living room floors but until my vacuum cleaner returns, I have the perfect excuse to carry on enjoying the fragrance of my Christmas tree and recalling happy memories.

Hope 2015 brings all you wish for PS Just heard – my vacuum cleaner has been lost at the repairers – so I’m being given a new one – new year, new vacuum, new enthusiasm for cleaning? I think not!

Liz Turner, Assistant Editor Follow us on twitter www.twitter.com/mags4dorset Follow us on facebook: www.facebook.com/mags4dorset.news Join the editor at www.facebook.com/janine.pulford Visit our website: www.mags4dorset.co.uk Email the editor at: editorial@mags4dorset.co.uk

Pic of the month -

David Hough from Ferndown sent us this photograph of the first daffodil of the year, which bloomed in his garden early in the new year

Viewpoint Magazine is independently published and distributed free to homes and businesses in Ringwood, Verwood, Three Legged Cross, Ashley Heath, St Ives, West Moors and Wimborne. Views or opinions expressed in Viewpoint Magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement deemed to be unsuitable for publication. Information about a service does not imply recommendation. All purchases made through this publication are done so entirely at your own risk. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with Viewpoint Magazine and may not be reproduced without prior written permission from the publisher.

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

COPY CLOSING DATE 2 FEBRUARY 2015

First Floor, King George V Pavilion, Peter Grant Way, Ferndown, Dorset, BH22 9EN Tel: 01202 870270

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Mayor joins production line The Mayor of Verwood, Cllr Mrs Pat Morrow, joined with Wimborne and Ferndown Lions Club to help fill 96 food parcels for the needy.

The parcels were made up at the Scout Hall in a wellengineered production line and included goods purchased in bulk from Morrisons of Verwood. Deliveries were made in time for Christmas. Each bag included about 25 food items.

Tots

and Ti ni e s The spring sessions for tots and tinies take place at Fordingbridge Library on 23 January, 6 February, 6 and 20 March, 9.30am-10am.

These free sessions include songs and rhymes aimed at 0-4-year-olds. Fordingbridge Library is at Roundhill SP6 1AQ.

Verwood Carnival spreads cheer The Verwood Carnival committee handed out cheques last month to local groups and charities to the tune of £2,000.

Chairman Adrian Read said, “Although 2014 was not a brilliant year for us, we wanted to thank those people

Festive spirit of Christmas past

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VIEWPOINT January 2015

and groups that support and participate in the carnival.”

The cheques were distributed prior to a meeting at the Hideaway in Verwood.

New committee members are on board and the future of the carnival is looking brighter.

A slap up tea, a school choir singing carols and the orchestra playing festive tunes attracted nearly 70 family and friends for a seasonal celebration at Wimborne’s Allenbourn Middle School last month.

A special drama performance about the famous Christmas truce and football game on the Western Front in 1914 was also acted out.

One visitor said, “The atmosphere is really lovely, the children have done us proud.”

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NETBALL PLAYER IS A WINNER Apply now for 2015 A committed netball player, 16-year-old Abi Bedford LEGACY AWARD has received the 2014 West Moors legacy award

West Moors Parish Council is now inviting applications for the Legacy Award in 2015. If you know of an aspiring young sports person (aged 11-17 years old) please contact the parish office on 01202 861044 for an application form. Up to £1,000 will be awarded.

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iven by West Moors Parish Council to an aspiring young person with a talent for a sporting or physical activity, the annual award of up to £1,000 is given to someone aged between 11–17-years-old to help out with travelling, equipment and coaching costs.

A Ferndown Upper School student and member of Ferndown Netball Club, Abi’s application impressed the panel. Chairman of the Parish Council Pete Holden said, “Abi has demonstrated she has a talent for netball and is committed to the sport.”

She plays netball for Ferndown Junior Netball Club in division three of the Bournemouth Adult League and represents Dorset in the South West Regional League, which involves a lot of travelling.

“I hope to successfully trial for the Regional Academy next year,” she said in her application. “My ambition is to get into the Regional Academy in Bath.

Long term I would love to play for the England Netball team and represent the country in the sport I love.”

Chairman Cllr Peter Holden presents the Legacy Award to Abi Bedford

With the money received Abi will purchase a new netball team dress and netball trainers, a swimming costume and fitness trainers. She swims three times a week with Swim Bournemouth swimming club at Littledown and fulfills an hour of strength and conditioning in Poole to help her maintain fitness for netball. The award will also go towards paying some of her travelling expenses.

Lynee Vivian, Ferndown Netball Club coach supported Abi’s application and said, “I have no doubt that Abi will continue to progress and fulfill her potential as a player of excellence. She is a valued member of her team and club.”

The presentation of the award took place prior to West Moors Parish Council meeting on 18 December at the Fryer Field Pavilion.

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

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Extravaganza

lights up town

Crowds gathered on Ferrett Green in Verwood on 13 December to welcome Santa and Snow White during the town’s annual Christmas Extravaganza.

Market stalls, mulled wine, mince pies, carol singing and a fun fair all added to the atmosphere.

All the fun of the fair

Heathland Heritage Centre stall: Brian Walker, Michael Beer, Margaret Moran and Ailse Collier

The mayor chats to those taking time out for a cuppa

Santa and Snow White

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VIEWPOINT January 2015

The Mayor of Verwood, Cllr Mrs Pat Morrow said she felt the event had gone really well and money raised by the Heathland Heritage Centre on the night by the sale of mince pies will be donated to the mayor’s charities: the training band of Verwood Concert Brass; Community Christmas; Green Cottage Riding for the Disabled.

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R A P ADE Save the Children

Santa’s Grotto

Eloise McAlinney, aged two weeks was the star of Merley Hall Farm’s nativity scene. Mum Jodie, dressed as Joseph kept a close eye on baby Jesus

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imborne was packed for the 26th annual parade with festivities starting in the morning including entertainment from Allenbourn School Brass Band, morris dancers, Gugge 2000 and fairground rides.

Over 50 groups took part in the parade which started at Brook Road and made its way through the town centre.

Local companies supplied the lorries and drivers and it was marshalled by volunteers.

After the parade, Father Christmas and the Snow Princess welcomed children to a beautifully decorated grotto in the Tourist Information Centre.

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

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local Council staff put their money down the pan

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taff at East Dorset District Council’s offices at Furzehill, Wimborne, were flushed with success after opting for a different way of celebrating Christmas – by raising money to ‘twin toilets’ instead of sending each other Christmas cards.

Senior planning officer, Elizabeth Adams, constructed her own version of a toilet

and invited workmates to put money in her novel collecting bowl for the Christchurch based charity Toilet Twinning.

Colleagues were invited to ‘spend a pound instead of a penny’.

The money raised with go towards providing a family in a developing nation with a proper latrine, clean water and the information they need to stay clean and healthy. An estimated 2.5 billion people around the world do not have safe, clean toilet facilities.

Toilet Twinning is a partnership between

development charities Tearfund and Cord and raises funds to provide lifesaving latrines in some of the world’s poorest communities.

Proper sanitation is often the first step out of poverty for families: instead of being laid low by sickness, parents are able to work and grow crops; children are able to go to school and get an education.

Elizabeth said: “We often look for an alternative way to celebrate Christmas instead of sending each other Christmas cards. With the Ebola outbreak and the need

for people to have hygienic facilities, this seemed like a good cause to support.”

Toilet Twinning CEO Lorraine Kingsley said the charity had seen increased demand for toilet twins in West African nations such as Sierra Leone since the latest Ebola outbreak.

“It’s easy to feel helpless in the face of such a crisis, but providing clean water and proper sanitation is one very practical way to help prevent the spread of the virus,” said Lorraine.

Development management staff with the unique collection box

Conservation works at Arrowsmith Coppice

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major project at Arrowsmith Coppice has been started to help conserve and enhance the area, bringing additional benefits to local wildlife and the community. Previously forming part of Canford Estate, most of this 30 acre (12 ha) site is dominated by rhododendrons, a non native invasive plant. The thick plant growth is preventing the natural regeneration of the woodland and is smothering an area of rare heathland. In addition it is also preventing public access to nearly all of the area. Arrowsmith Coppice was bought by the Borough of Poole as part of The Great Heath Project. As part of its management, the council is clearing approximately 4.25 acres (1.7 ha) of rhododendrons in the southwest corner. Funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, initial work is focused on clearing the plants around a stream in the middle of the site, allowing a bridge to be erected. The bridge will connect the lay-bys on Gravel Hill Road and Arrowsmith Road, encouraging public access into this site. Further clearance of rhododendron will be carried out in phases.

Cllr Xena Dion and Jez Martin, project officer, biodiversity at Arrowsmith Coppice

For further information see www.thegreatheath.org and www.pooleprojects.net/great-heath.html.

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

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local MP makes

‘DIFFICULT DECISION’ to step down

Bob Walter is to stand down as the MP for North Dorset ahead of the 2015 General Election

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aving completed close to18 years of service to the people of the the parliamentary constituency - which stretches from Alderholt to Glanvilles Wootton and Winterborne Zelston to Bourton - Bob will not be standing as the Conservative candidate in May.

Although not retiring from politics altogether, Bob has decided it is time for him to hand over the reins to a new Conservative candidate in recognition of the fact that, by the end of the next Parliament, he will be approaching the age of 72.

He wants to offer the opportunity to a younger

Conservative to represent North Dorset as its MP. He is convinced that the next generation will provide a representative who will work tirelessly to represent the needs of the rural constituency in the years to come.

Bob was elected in 1997 and has been re-elected on three subsequent occasions, increasing his majority in 2010.

He said: “It has been an honour and a privilege to serve the people of North Dorset for the last 17 years.

Stepping down has been a

very difficult decision and not one I have taken lightly.

“However, I want the best for my constituents and am now confident that a new Conservative MP will be better able, by the end of the next parliament, to withstand the rigours of what is undoubtedly a 24-hour-a-day, 7-daya-week job. They will have my full support.

“I and my team in Westminster and at my Blandford constituency office will, of course, continue to represent and provide assistance

to all constituents who have need of it up until 7 May 2015, when a new MP for North Dorset will be elected.”

Bob Walter MP

COMPETITION WINNER’S

Brittany break

Brittany Ferries and mags4dorset’s 4Dorset August competition to win a return cruise for two with car and cabin was won by Zena Roberts from Wimborne who travelled to France with her husband John at the end of October.

After what she described as a wonderful trip, she wanted to share their experience with readers: “Having had a good drive down to Plymouth, approximately two and a half hours, we didn’t have long to wait and boarded the ferry in good time. We upgraded our cabin to a four berth outside cabin with television, tea making facilities and en suite and were very quickly settled in before the boat left. We enjoyed a lovely evening meal and the facilities on board and settled down for a good night’s sleep. It was lovely to wake up after a very calm crossing to Roscoff, have a hot relaxing shower and a light breakfast before we headed off to Quimper for our three night mini break.”

She continued: “We visited lots of little bays and beaches and did lots

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of walking in an endeavour to burn off all the amazing seafood, cheeses and wine.

We inflicted our French on the locals and they in return were extremely patient and charming.”

They caught the day crossing back.

Zena added: “Having a cabin was fantastic. We really appreciated dropping off our coats and then strolling around the boat, having lunch and returning to our cabin to read the Sunday papers which we bought on board.

“We arrived back in Plymouth all refreshed and ready to drive home.

It’s definitely a crossing we would use again and we would love to explore western Brittany further.”

local Child exploitation

STOP IT NOW! As part of Dorset Police’s Protecting Vulnerable People (PVP) programme, the Force is encouraging people to be aware of the signs of Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) in a bid to protect vulnerable children from this emerging and horrific crime.

CSE is a form of child abuse that involves manipulation or coercion of young people to engage in sexual activity in exchange for money, gifts including alcohol, drugs, accommodation, affection or status.

Children are befriended – sometimes online through social media and often initially supplied with drugs and alcohol. Once trust is gained, the sexual abuse begins.

Perpetrators can exercise financial, emotional and physical control over a victim, and trick them into believing they are in a consensual loving relationship. This can lead to forcing them into sexual activity - sometimes for financial profit with multiple abusers. This can, although not exclusively, also be associated with gang membership and culture.

Deputy Head of Public Protection, Detective Chief Inspector Chris Naughton said: “CSE is a public protection priority everywhere. Professionals working in child-focused roles are being actively trained to recognise the early indicators and factors that can identify children at risk. This gives professionals the awareness, knowledge and understanding to address any issues.”

There are many signs that a child may be at risk. These include drug or alcohol misuse, sexual health issues and sexualised behaviour, sudden access to money or new things, self harm, change in appearance, change in temperament, low selfesteem, unexplained injuries, criminality, older friends and acquaintances and repeatedly going missing, absent or truant.

For those young people involved in/or at risk from CSE, the Safe Schools and Communities Team (SSCT) offer a targeted intervention programme and education packages to schools.

They also offer training for professionals who work with children and young people.

Members of the public and those in service industries such as taxi drivers, hoteliers and food outlets can help safeguard children at risk by looking out for signs such as young people being: •

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•

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taken into a hotel room by one or more adults who do not seem to be family members in a hotel room which is visited or requested by a number of additional adults taxied to a hotel or other venue to meet a group of adults who do not seem to be family members out late with older adults who do not seem to be family members bought alcoholic drinks by adults although the young person is already intoxicated in the company of adults who are known or suspected of being involved in adult prostitution bought food or drinks by a much older adult whom they seem to see as a boyfriend / girlfriend

Other ‘at risk’ signs include indications of sexual activity with one or more adult who is significantly older than the young person or indications of sexual activity involving a young person who you know or suspect to be under 16.

Detective Chief Inspector Chris Naughton continued: “Dorset Police’s Child Sexual Exploitation Team works with partners to actively target, investigate and arrest any offenders suspected of exploiting children within Dorset.

“In addition, the Dorset Police Safeguarding Referral Unit, in close cooperation with partner agencies, works to ensure that all children who are vulnerable to such exploitation are safeguarded and protected.

“The message is simple and clear; if you commit these crimes against children we will find you, arrest you and bring you to justice.”

If you have any concerns that a child you know may be a victim of CSE call Dorset Police on 101 or in an emergency 999. Or call the anonymous Crimestoppers line 0800 555 111. Other useful contacts: Local Authority Children’s Social Care: Bournemouth 01202 456900, Poole 01202 735046, Dorset: www.dorsetforyou.com/393713 www.barnardos.org.uk NSPCC 0808 800 5000 help@nspcc.org.uk www.nspcc.org.uk/childsexualexploitation National Helpline for male victims of CSE 07808 863 662 www.saferinternet.org.uk Child Exploitation and Online Protection centre www.ceop.police.uk CEOP resources for parents and children www.thinkuknow.co.uk www.stopitnow.org.uk www.internetmatters.org

Life on board the Royal Yacht

Members of Verwood Afternoon Townswomen’s Guild were entertained at the recent meeting by Mike Crankshaw with his talk ‘Life On Board The Royal Yacht’.

He spent over 10 years working as a Royal Naval cook aboard the yacht, feeding over 200 men every day. Although extremely hard work, he insisted he loved every minute, rising at 4.30am and going to bed at midnight.

Concerned about anyone sleeping rough?

Anyone concerned about people sleeping rough can contact the national initiative Streetlink.

It is always a concern to see people sleeping rough, especially in cold winter weather. Contacting Streetlink on 0300 5000 914 will help to connect that person to the local services available. Or go on line www. streetlink.org.uk/tell-usabout-a-rough-sleeper

LAG Meeting

The next meeting of Verwood Local Action Group is at the Hub, Brock Way on 9 February at 7pm when there will be an open forum.

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Hotlisted bus passes will be cancelled Concessionary bus pass users are being advised to check they are using the correct bus pass, as invalid passes will be cancelled when a new system is rolled out across the South West next month.

Bus operators and councils throughout the South West are switching to ‘hotlisting’ - a term used when cancelling invalid passes electronically, from Monday 2 February.

Bus passes will be hotlisted if: the original pass has been reported lost or stolen and been replaced with a new pass; the relevant council wrote to a passholder and the letter was returned by the Royal Mail indicating the pass holder may have moved address; the relevant council wrote to a pass-holder asking for upto-date proof of eligibility or to return the pass.

Any invalid passes from 2 February will be withdrawn and retained by the bus driver. If a pass is withdrawn and the driver is satisfied that the user is the person identified on the pass, the user will still be able to make that journey. However all future journeys will need to be paid for until either the correct pass is used or a new valid pass is obtained.

local Urgent appeal regarding historic sex offences case Dorset Police is appealing for anyone with information regarding a case involving historic sex offences to come forward.

A former Scoutmaster, Peter Hamilton-Harvey, 55, was charged on 12 December 2014 with rape of a boy under the age of 13, four counts

of gross indecency and five counts of indecent assault – all against a boy under the age of 14. He will appear at Bournemouth Magistrates Court on Tuesday, 13 January.

In August last year, the victim, who is now an adult and living in Lancashire, approached police

with allegations of sexual abuse in Bournemouth in the 1980s when he was between 6 and 12-years-old.

It is alleged that Hamilton-Harvey befriended the boy before abusing him.

During the 1980s HamiltonHarvey was living in Bournemouth and was a local Scoutmaster. Later he also ran an organisation called Bournemouth Community Care Trust.

Detective Inspector Neil Phillips, of Dorset Police’s Child Abuse

Investigation Team, said: “Following our investigation into the allegations the Crown Prosecution Service directed Dorset Police to charge Peter Hamilton-Harvey with these historic offences.

“In order to complete our investigation I am appealing for anyone with information regarding this case to come forward.

“Anyone with information should call the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000.”

Flood prevention help has begun Some Dorset flood victims are getting help

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orset County Council is installing flood barriers, doors and pumps to homes that have reported internal flooding, from either ground water or surface water to the habitable parts of the properties.

A total of 100 properties will be fitted with devices to improve flood resilience and help householders return to normality quickly after being flooded.

This scheme is funded

by Flood Defence Grant in Aid, administered by the Environment Agency.

50 properties in West Dorset are currently being fitted with devices. 50 properties across Dorset will be receiving these products in the next two years.

More help is at hand for those who have been affected by flooding – call the National Flood Forum charity – 01299 403055 or visit www.nationalfloodforum. org.uk To ensure your property is considered for future schemes visit www. dorsetforyou.com/flooding/ report

Don’t keep large amounts of cash at home Burglar jailed for four years

Darren John Lane, 37, of no fixed abode, was sentenced last November at Bournemouth Crown Court after pleading guilty to burglary with aggravating features.

The offence was committed last August at the victim’s home in Boscombe.

Lane first telephoned the 87-year-old victim to ascertain she was at home.

When he arrived he pushed her to the ground in the communal area outside her flat, before going inside and stealing £300. The victim suffered minor injuries.

Detective Constable Lynda Soutine, of Bournemouth CID, said: “Thankfully crimes such as these are unusual in Dorset.

I hope the severity of this sentence will act as a strong deterrent to others.

“I would like to remind people not to keep large amounts of cash at home.”

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

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DONKEY DEATH

prompts reflective stickers

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he owner of a snowy white donkey knocked down and killed in Brockenhurst is putting reflective stickers on her animals in an attempt to make drivers slow down.

Jo-Jo was one of 16 donkeys owned by Rob and Genette Byford who - along with ponies, cattle, sheep and pigs - roam free across the New Forest. The distinctive

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female foal had been used in a drive safe event at Brockenhurst College earlier this year to encourage students to be aware of animals on the road. She was killed by a driver at Sway Road on 26 November and her frantic mother Doll had to be rounded up to stop her from running into the path of other cars. Sadly another of Genette’s donkeys was also hit on 7 December at Sway Road and ran off. Now Genette, with another New Forest commoner, is trialling reflective stickers attached to Doll and some of her other animals to try to make them even more visible.

Special glue is used to attach the stickers to the hair but more research is needed to find a reflective material that will remain in place for longer. Genette said Jo-Jo had become famous among residents and visitors since she was born in May and many people had taken photos of her and posted them on social media. She said: “We gave Jo-Jo to our two-year-old grandson Sam and I know people don’t go

VIEWPOINT January 2015

BELOW: Jo-Jo and Doll in Brockenhurst last summer.

ABOVE: New Forest Commoner Genette Byford of Brockenhurst with daughter Yasmin Cook and grandson Sam Cook with Doll the donkey wearing a reflective badge. Doll’s distinctive white foal Jo-Jo was killed by a driver.

out to kill or injure them on purpose but it is barbaric. I’ve had a number of donkeys and ponies run over and it is heart-breaking every time.

People just don’t think about the animals being there. ”If they are knocked over people should call someone straight away so they can either be saved or put out of their misery. We do have reflective collars on most of our animals but I don’t put them on the babies because when they grow the collars get too tight.”

Around 70 animals are killed every year. A wide number of agencies work together to reduce animal accidents with initiatives such

as police speed enforcement, changing warning road signs to keep drivers’ attention, hotline cards and ‘I go slow for ponies’ window stickers. Some people have called for the 40mph speed limit to be lowered further across the Forest. However Nigel Matthews, Head of Recreation Management at the New Forest National Park Authority, said: “Sadly this donkey was killed in a 30mph zone within a village and in any case animals can be killed or injured at 30mph or lower speeds. The majority of accidents involve local people, many of whom become complacent as they go about their daily business.

We are again appealing to drivers to be more careful.

We should all drive knowing that there might be an animal on the road ahead. They have the road sense of a twoyear-old so if one is standing beside the road, drivers should be ready to stop in case it steps into the road at the last minute.”

Animals have right of way on New Forest roads, as their free grazing activity helps shape the iconic landscape. About 600 commoners own the thousands of animals roaming freely in the national park, exercising special rights granted in the 13th Century attached to their properties.

in health and fitness CHARITY OF THE YEAR:

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

Teams from the local community converge each year at Ferndown Leisure Centre to raise money during the Relay For Life for cancer research.

At the 2015 launch event held at Marsham Court Hotel, it was announced that £20,830 was raised in 2014.

The cumulative total since 2007, when the event was known as Relay For Life Ferndown, is now £190,616.

This year, committee members will grow the event to encourage more people to participate.

The dedicated columns in 4Dorset and Viewpoint Magazine will help Cancer Research UK’s Relay For Life reach a much wider local audience to inspire more people to join in. Participants can be anyone – people of all ages, ability or fitness level.

Cancer Research UK’s Relay For Life gives supporters the opportunity to join together and fundraise as a team with friends, family or colleagues. Teams organise events throughout the months leading up to the Relay, when they all come together for a fun-filled, inspirational overnight experience that honours cancer survivors and celebrates life.

Karen Lynch volunteer chairman of Relay For Life in Bournemouth and East Dorset, said: “Relay For Life is about being part of a community united in the belief that together we are stronger than cancer and we can make a stand against the disease. It is a unique event with a celebratory atmosphere and everyone who joins in will take away something special. We would love to hear from anyone who wants to find out more about Relay For Life and how they can help.”

The money raised by Relay For Life helps to fund Cancer Research UK’s pioneering work to develop newer, kinder treatments and bring forward the day when all cancers are cured.

This year’s Relay For Life is on 11 and 12 July. For more information visit cruk.org/relay or call 08716 412602.

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

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RINGWOOD NEWS

Fun in the snow

Crowds cheer Christmas celebrations in Ringwood Thousands of people turned out on Saturday 6 December for the Switch On of the Christmas lights in Ringwood With entertainment from elves (from Ringwood School) giving out sweets, singers, fair rides, choirs and bands as well as over 60 exhibitor stalls and Roger the Ringwood Reindeer adding to the fun, there was something for everyone to enjoy.

Santa’s Grotto was open throughout the day and over 200 children called in to see him, get presents and play in the ‘snow’ with the elf helpers.

Cheryl, Lauren and Kelly from Verwood ran a stall selling hats which was popular with the crowds

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Family time in the parade

It was the first time the event had been held for a number of years and the sunny weather helped ensure the crowds spent all day on the High Street and Market Place.

Organiser Mandy Oldfield said: “It’s been a wonderful day and we have had lots of great feedback, which we hope will get more people involved next year.”

Towards the end of the day a lantern parade lit up the town as it made its way to the stage with lanterns having been made earlier in the day in the elf workshop in the Meeting House. Santa, Roger Reindeer, elves, families, a marching band, donkeys and motorcycles joined in the parade which ended up in the Market Place.

Ringwood School elves Gina Robinson (left) and Natalie Harris

Let it snow Let it snow Let it snow

RINGWOOD NEWS

Nativity scene from Ringwood churches

Megan Lane, aged 9, ready for the lantern parade

Parade Emily Cook, aged 3 organiser from Verwood far from Christine frozen in her Olaf hat Smith said: “It was lovely to see the small children involved and we are very grateful to them and their parents for coming along to support our day.”

The Christmas lights in the town were new this year with the displays supported by local businesses and the National Lottery.

The Town Council will add to these lights each year with plans to increase the size of the Switch On event so bringing in even more people to support local businesses.

The Town Mayor Councillor Barbara Woodifield said: “It’s been a great year for me to be Mayor and there are other projects in the pipeline right now which I am sure local residents will embrace and which will improve the town further. I couldn’t be prouder of what we have achieved.”

The Town Council has recently formed a working party to look at how to support the High Street and local business and would welcome comments and ideas.

Don’t “Let it Go”

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

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RINGWOOD NEWS

PRAISE FOR Roger Frederick presents the cheque to the mayor

LIFE SAVING EQUIPMENT Ringwood Mayor Councillor Barbara Woodifield has presented a cheque for £1,000 to Denis Hann of Ringwood First Responders towards the cost of new life saving equipment. Mr Hann, said he was delighted to have the council’s support as the group was self-funding. He explained that, due to the NHS ambulance crews being so stretched, the First Responders provided a vital service to the community.

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Campaign 4 Carvers Skate Park raised £208 during the Christmas Lights Switch On event

he group had also raised £400 from a Spud Day at Ringwood School, and has been awarded £250 from the Lions’ Den.

The Rotary Club has also pledged £1,000.

The group hopes to hold an annual Skate Fest to raise further funds. On receiving the £208, Ringwood Town

Councillors said they were very proud and pleased that the young people were taking ownership of the project and raising money for themselves.

Honour for

Hampshire fire chief

John Bonney, the Former Chief Officer for Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service has been awarded a CBE in the New Year’s Honours list for his work in the fire service.

He served a decade in the top job before stepping down on 31 December.

Dave Curry, has taken over as Chief Officer with Neil Odin appointed as Deputy Chief Officer.

Birthstone for January

Garnet

Garnets come in all kinds of colours as well as the most popular red brown.

As with many precious stones, garnets were once believed to hold medical powers. In medieval times, it protected its wearer against poisons, wounds and bad dreams.

To the modern wearer, the garnet symbolizes a light heart, loyalty and enduring affection.

Volunteer drivers needed

The Ringwood and Fordingbridge Club for the Blind desperately needs volunteer drivers to bring members to the club twice a month on Thursday afternoons. There are also other tasks which can be done by volunteers. To find out more ring Mary on 01425 470008 or Russell on 01425 476618.

18 |

VIEWPOINT January 2015

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

R A E Y NEW New

by Janine Pulford

advertising feature

You!

However you intend to tackle the New Year, now is a good opportunity to work on a healthier lifestyle

LOSE WEIGHT My Dad once told me the only way to lose weight is to eat less calories. I took his advice and it works. You can join myfitnesspal.com the free calorie counter, diet and exercise journal and do it yourself, or you can join a slimming club and achieve weight loss with the help and encouragement of others.

TAKE MORE EXERCISE For a healthier lifestyle, it is recommended that you walk for 30 minutes every day. You could also workout at your local gym or take up a sport.

QUIT SMOKING Smoking is not only expensive, but it’s bad for your health and unpleasant for those around you who don’t smoke.

There are plenty of methods available to assist you, visit www.nhs.uk/smokefree EAT MORE FRUIT AND VEG The 5-a-day option is not that hard to maintain. It’s easy to be creative with the variety of fruit and vegetables on offer these days.

DELIGHTFUL IDEAS A change of hairstyle, new outfits, beauty treatments, manicures, pedicures and teeth whitening will enhance your new look.

So welcome the day when the slimmer, fitter, healthier you can take advantage of all these delightful ways of self-improvement. But if all else fails, you can also console yourself with these options. Good luck and happy new year!

20 |

VIEWPOINT January 2015

in correspondence Reform rates for local businesses

Don’t let asthma put you off resolutions

I am supporting the Local Government Association’s drive to reform the business rates regime for our local businesses. Businesses need this support, and residents want a diverse, interesting and local high street.

Districts need devolved powers on business rates to stimulate year-round growth, and to set rates and give discounts to the local and independent retailers, that residents want to see in our towns.

We also need to look at linking business rates to turnover and e-commerce to make trading fairer for local businesses. Small shops and independent traders can pay many times more than Internet start-ups and e-commerce firms which have a much larger turnover; this makes it difficult for new businesses to open in our high streets. Local policies supporting local traders could include start-up leases for new businesses, or perhaps rate relief for firms which use local suppliers.

Councils have to make a positive difference otherwise what is the point of them? This is one of the areas in which they could, if government devolved powers to stimulate and grow our local economies.

Please write to your MP if you support devolution of business rates to support more vibrant, diverse and successful local high streets.

Steven Lugg EDDC Councillor for Ferndown Central

We hope your readers have had a wonderful Christmas. Now that thoughts turn to the New Year, we wanted to offer advice for the 1 in every 11 people who read your newspaper who have asthma because our recent New Year Resolution Survey highlighted that 71% of people with asthma think that their condition will hold them back from achieving their New Year Resolutions for 2015.

But with the right medicines and support from a GP or asthma nurse the vast majority of people with asthma should be able to live their lives ‘symptom free’ and be well enough to take on New Year’s Resolutions to improve their health. We want to encourage everyone with asthma to improve their asthma management in 2015 so they have a better chance of reaching their goals.

For more information visit www.asthma.org.uk or call the Asthma UK Helpline 0800 121 6244.

Kay Boycott, Chief Executive Officer, Asthma UK

Big thank you

I am writing to thank the mags4dorset’s team for the magnificent support you gave us at Green Cottage RDA through 2014 and for the £350 donation which you had collected at various local events; it was such a surprise and we are very grateful.

You have made such a difference – through your magazines people have learnt about us and what we do when the brilliant disabled children come to us to ride ponies. I am also sure the website you have designed will be a great benefit to us.

Jane Dowding Group Secretary Green Cottage RDA

AGFA update Over the past year members of Active Games For All (AGFA) have canvassed the trustees of Verwood Memorial Recreation Ground and sent repeated requests to be allowed to install seats and rubber matting in the Recreation Ground with their remaining funds.

Their request was finally granted on 17 June and two seats are now in situ allowing parents and guardians to sit and watch whilst their children play in the multi-use games area. The Verwood Memorial Recreation Ground is really buzzing on a Saturday morning between 9am and 10am and is a real tribute to Rossgarth Youth Football Club’s development of youth football in Verwood.

AGFA has also purchased rubber matting that will be installed around the five fitness items once the ground has been levelled.

The organisation will hold the small amount of remaining funds to be spent on two additional seats when the playground is extended at some time in the next two years.

AGFA will provide final accounts at that time and close the organisation.

Angela Daymond AGFA Chairman

New look twinning takes off The new look Fordingbridge Twinning Association has been exceptionally active. It had a successful stall in Fordingbridge library at the Black Friday late night shopping evening in November, and an overwhelmingly successful ‘Ooh la la’ evening in December. The next event will be on Saturday 7 February. For further details, please contact us on 01425 650770.

Derek and Alison Ayling Chairman and PR person Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

| 21

local

Brenda threads her way to Westminster Abbey

by Janine Pulford

When Brenda Slade offered to help the retired Bishop of Singapore, Banit Chu, after he moved to Verwood, she had no idea it would be the start of a long relationship with Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey cope made by Brenda

22 |

VIEWPOINT January 2015

Brenda explains, “The Bishop needed repairs to his stole and a friend of mine said, ‘You could mend that’.”

A tailor by trade, Brenda had made uniforms for heads of state and officers as well as for actors on film sets, so to repair the stole was a challenge she knew she would enjoy.

The material for the repair had to be collected from Westminster Abbey and while Brenda was there, the Dean’s cope was brought in.

“He’d stepped back and torn the fringe off,” said Brenda, “and I offered to repair that too.”

That was in 1983 and she has been a volunteer at the Abbey ever since, “There are eight of us who meet once a week,” she explained.

Most of the ladies live in London or Bedfordshire, but Brenda commutes from Verwood, leaving at 7am to catch the coach, and returning home at 6.45pm. Fortunately, her travelling expenses are paid.

“I enjoy the coach journey and all the different people from all walks of life that I meet on the way,” said Brenda.

Her husband Roy has estimated that over the last 32 years, Brenda has travelled a staggering 250,000 miles to volunteer at Westminster Abbey. That is some dedication, but she loves what she does and looks forward to her weekly visit. “It’s a labour of love,” she says with a smile and it’s easy to see she means it.

“As well as repairing vestments that are centuries old, we make new ones, copes, chasubles and frontals,” she adds.

Work can involve repairing weighty cloth embroidered with gold thread. She recalls repairing the copes made for Charles II’s coronation in 1661 and working on King George VI’s vestments.

“I feel very privileged to be handling all these ceremonial robes

Work in progre ss

which are part of our heritage,” said Brenda. “It’s a history lesson every time I go to the Abbey. History comes alive and I often think about the people who originally made the vestments.”

Though many of the robes and vestments are not everyday wear, they all get worn at some point.

Roy is familiar with Brenda’s well-worn phrase, “I made that,” whenever there is a state occasion on television.

Her connection with Westminster Abbey has led to some privileged invitations, but protocol is tight. She recalls attending one service when she walked in with an eminent actor.

“He stood back to let me sit down, but my ticket said ‘standing only’ so he sat and I stood.”

From sewing on a button to hand stitching gold braid or

local machine stitching new vestments, it’s all in a day’s work for Brenda.

She became a bespoke tailor in the 1950s aged only15 when she worked a 40 hour week and “didn’t dare take any time off.”

When she and Roy got married, she made her own wedding dress, Roy’s suit and the bridesmaids’ dresses. More recently she’s made the Verwood carnival queens’ and princesses’ dresses, repaired the Verwood mayoral chain mount and made 40 choir robes for St Michael’s Church choir, made a millennium panel at Wimborne St Giles and one for the SW region Guide Association as well as repairing their banners. And with two young children to look after in the early days, Brenda had to come up with an original idea of how to keep them safe from her pins and needles. “I used to sit in their playpen and sew,” explained Brenda. “They would be outside the pen and I would be safely sewing inside. It worked very well.”

When it comes to sewing, nothing is too much for Brenda, “I enjoy a challenge and I like a deadline.”

A member of the Guild of St Faith, she says, “It is a closeknit and supportive group.”

Her links with Westminster Abbey have seen her interviewed for ‘Songs of Praise’ and she’s been interviewed by the New York Post.

A gift like Brenda’s is rare, so she is delighted to have a great niece, Charlotte, who is following in her footsteps. Whether Charlotte will ever inherit Brenda’s much coveted shears, made by Wilkinsons, is another question.

“I bought these when I was 15 and use them all the time,” said Brenda. “They’ve been reground, but are as good as new and I wouldn’t part with them.” Yet the twinkle in her eye makes me think she may pass them on to Charlotte one day.

SHEAR DELIGHT: Brenda at home with her shears

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

| 23

CashUnity

Specified Period 1 Jan 2015 - 31 Jan 2015 BROADSTONE & POOLE FORUM JEWELLERS

£1,000

monthly prize guaranteed!

CashUnity HAS CHANGED!

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

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

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

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

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

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

POOLE JOINERY

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

TIMS TILES

Innovation Close, BH12 4GF 01202 716969

CHRISTCHURCH & TUCKTON AVON CAUSEWAY

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

CLARITY HEARING

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

HONORA (Wool Shop)

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

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

THINK PRINT

TONY SMITH KITCHENS

CROW FARM SHOP

UNDERWOOD EYECARE

THE FISH INN

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

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

XEROCAD PRINT CENTRE

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

FERNDOWN IND. ESTATE DORSET SOILS & AGGREGATES LTD

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

HOWDENS JOINERY

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

SELECT PVCU

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

THE WHEEL SPECIALIST

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

FORDINGBRIDGE CAXTON DÉCOR

7 High Street, BH23 1AB 01202 473167

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

TONY HAIR

FORDINGBRIDGE BOOKSHOP

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

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

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

BASIC ELEGANCE

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

CROWNING GLORY

515 Wimborne Road East, BH22 9NH 01202 892968

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

FERNGAS

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

INTERIORS COMPLETE

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

SWAN JEWELLERS

55 Victoria Road, BH22 9HU 01202 892990

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

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

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

HIGHCLIFFE CHRISTCHURCH HEARING AID CENTRE LTD

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

HIGHCLIFFE COACH HOLIDAYS

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

KINSON SPECIALITY CAKES

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

RINGWOOD ALLUM & SIDAWAY

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

BICKERLEY GARAGE

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

CONTAKT CARPETS

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

Close Date 5 Feb 2015

Crow, BH24 3EA 01425 473290 crowfarmshop.com

West Street, BH24 2AA 01425 473185 thefishinn.net

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

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

MILLSTREAM MOTOR COMPANY

Unit 9 Millstream Trading Estate.

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

PAPER MOUNTAIN

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

POULNER FISH & CHIPS 4 Butlers Lane, Poulner 01425 478310

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

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

SOUL SHED

THE SWANS RESTAURANT

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

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

WEST MOORS HONEY BEE FARM

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

SELBY BUTCHERS

150 Station Road, BH22 0JB 01202 873121

WEBB’S AWARD WINNING BUTCHERS

165 Station Road, BH22 0HT 01202 855817 facebook.com/webbsbutchers

WEST PARLEY COZY STOVES

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

TIEGLA TILES

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

WIMBORNE DRUSILLA’S INN

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

(Cultural Gifts Store)

F B SALON

ST MARTIN’S GALLERY

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

4 Fridays Court, High Street, BH24 1AB 07786 282381

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

TOWNHOUSE HAIRDRESSING

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

THREE CROSS LEWIS CONCRETE

Mill Lane, BH21 1JQ 01202 842282

LITTLE CANFORD GARAGE

MIRAGE BOUTIQUE 28 Mill Lane, BH21 1JQ 01202 881931

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

SCF HARDWARE

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

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

PETALS FLORIST

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

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

VERWOOD CUSTOM CREATIONS

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

EBBLAKE AUTOCENTRE

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

GILBEY CLEANERS

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

WIMBORNE TYRES LTD

WINTON APPLIANCE ALLIANCE

8-9 Cardigan Road, BH9 1BJ 01202 513202 euronics.co.uk

CARLY’S CRAFTS

1A Cardigan Road, BH9 1BJ 01202 512106

WAYAHEAD TRAVEL

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

Participating traders

local

ES PRIZ won as follows:

CashUnity Christmas pay out Over £1500 was given away by mags4dorset in the bumper CashUnity prize draw held at John Brown’s Garden Centre on 6 December and hosted by Petals Florist.

Free bubbly and mince pies were given away by mags4dorset.

Jayne Oliver from Petals Florist surprised Chris Childs from West Moors, who mentioned it was her 80th birthday, with a beautiful bouquet of flowers.

The latest £1,000 prize winner, picked

by Santa was Gwen Moss from West Moors.

Gwen is the second winner to have entered at Leanne’s Hairdressers in West Moors. A thrilled Gwen said, “This is the first time I have ever won anything. The grandchildren will have a good Christmas this year.”

Santa took time out of his busy schedule at the Diverse Abilities’ grotto based at John Brown’s Garden Centre to carry out the draw.

Mrs Rosemary Handscomb from Bournemouth (entered at Honora, Christchurch). Rosemary works at the Barrington Theatre and received her prize, supplied by Petals Florist, at work.

7

g Writin e v i t a e

Cr

n

etitio Comp

L

Nicola Shaw, West Moors (entered at Xerocad, Ferndown).

Nicola adores Christmas cake and was thrilled with her prize from Speciality Cakes.

CHEESE AND PICKLES Simon Williams, Bournemouth, (entered at Xerocad, Ferndown). He received his hamper in time for Christmas from Lisa Selby from Selby Butchers.

THINK PRINT £25 VOUCHER - Andrew Jackson, West Moors (entered at Webb’s Butchers, West Moors).

ALLUM AND SIDAWAY £20 GIFT CARD - Christina Barber, Ferndown (entered at Webb’s Butchers, West Moors)

XEROCAD BOX FRAME CANVAS PRINT Geoffrey Black, Bournemouth (entered at Think Print, Christchurch)

3 CROSS MOT CENTRE £10 OFF AN MOT, Mrs Schofield, Ferndown (entered at Leanne’s, West Moors)

full details are at www.mags4dorset.co.uk)

Lacey Lightfoot is single, white, female. Age 23. Height 5’8”.

Hair long and black. Build: curvy – weight conscious. Last job: buyer for a multi-national chain store. Love life: no current boyfriend, not ready to settle down.

VIEWPOINT January 2015

DELICIOUS CAKE HEAVY WITH FRUIT

Patricia Sullivan, Ringwood (entered at W Patterson Butchers, Ringwood). Patricia received the news of her win on her birthday. She is pictured with Alex Webb receiving her prize from Webb’s Butchers

The mags4dorset writing competition is very different this year. (This is a précis of the competition,

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

26 |

BREAKFAST PACK

LACEY LIGHTFOOT GOES TO…

th

John Elms aged 80 from Verwood is pictured here with his wife Pat, their daughter Kim and their great grandchildren Fintan (3) and Oscar (2) receiving the aquarium starter kit worth £85.

Pat proudly told us that she and John have four children, 12 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren and most of them live in Verwood. John said, “We were so surprised to win, and would like to give the prize to our daughter Alexa who has two little girls.” Alexa had entered John online into the CashUnity bumper prize draw with a receipt from Ebblake Autocentre. Lucie Mann from Greenmann Aquatics is pictured on the right presenting John with his prize.

FLOWER DELIGHT

provided by mags4dorset were won as follows:

Their vouchers are redeemable at the participating traders from where their winning receipts originated as stated above.

FISHY TALE

Thrilled: Gwen Moss collecting her cheque at Leanne’s Hairdressers in West Moors

Ten £50 shopping vouchers Noreen Larry - Plane Cuisine, Verwood Mrs R Baker - Webb’s Butchers, West Moors Maggie Dobbs - Caxton Decor, Fordingbridge Jean Rowlands - Townhouse, Ringwood Mrs M Crichton - Honora, Christchurch Anne-Marie Taggart - Petals Florist, Three Legged Cross Penny Dowdell - Carly’s Crafts, Winton Jane Oatley - Tiegla Tiles, West Parley Christine Palmer - Xerocad, Ferndown Peter Durman - Poole Joinery, Poole

were

An ebook anthology will be compiled.

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

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

Closing date extended to 18 March 2015.

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

ENTRY FORM NAME:

ADDRESS:

TEL: EMAIL: TITLE OF STORY:

Lacey goes to...

C LOS IN EXTE G DATE N 18 MA DE D TO RC H 2015

So Valentine’s Day is just a few weeks away and it’s time to plan those romantic gestures which make this an occasion to remember You’ve decided to book a meal in a fantastic restaurant where your loved one can be wined and dined in style but what can you do to make the rest of the day special?

Roses, flowers, chocolates all are popular but sometimes a little too predictable and let’s face it, the price of even a single red rose can be exorbitant.

Maybe it’s time to add a little romance rather than splashing the cash * Breakfast in bed should start the day perfectly.

Valentine’s Day is a Saturday so there’s no need for most people to rush off to work.

Go for something a little bit more exciting than toast and marmalade and you’ll be onto a winner. Heart shaped cutters and even egg moulds will mean you can show your partner how much you care. * Help out with the house chores that your other half hates to do. To get time off from doing the washing, vacuuming or putting out the rubbish can be a real treat.

* Pop off to the coast or the Forest for a picnic lunch lovingly prepared with all your favourite snacks. You don’t have to push the boat out and buy oysters to create a romantic mood. Take a rug so you can snuggle up together. * Instead of paying out for a mass produced card, write your own love letter with a special personalised message. You could even include a photo of the two of you which brings back happy memories. * Create new happy memories – go for a romantic walk, watch a film or listen to music you both love.

Make red velvet cake or heart shaped biscuits. Far more personal than buying overpriced goodies.

* Go and watch the sun rise over the sea. At that time of the morning you can virtually guarantee having the beach to yourself and collect a few shells to remind you of the occasion. * Be creative – make a personalised gift. Remember it’s the thought that counts. * Look at your photo albums to share the memories and rekindle your love. * Make plans for the future – a day out, a holiday or propose something more permanent – it is the most romantic day of the year after all.

And all day long you can look forward to that wonderful romantic meal for two – just don’t forget to book as soon as possible to make sure your prefect day ends on a high note.

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

| 27

in and around the area

what’s on

21-24 January 7.45pm

Ferndown Drama present ‘Loot’

by Joe Orton at the Barrington Theatre, Ferndown. £8. Not suitable for children.

01292 894858

23 January - 13 February

Watercolours art exhibition by Michael Jones of West Moors, Regent, Christchurch.

01202 855777

24 January 9.30am-1pm

Craft fayre and table top sale, Verwood Memorial Hall.

01202 826380

24 - 31 January

Verwood Pantomime Society’s Aladdin at the Hub, Verwood. £9, children £7.

Tickets 01202 828740

27 January 7.30pm

Life & Times with Sir Chris Bonington, Britain’s best know mountaineer at the Regent Centre, Christchurch. Book on 01202 499199

28 January 11am

Fleet Air Arm Association meets at Royal British Legion, Church Road, Ferndown.

07815 824841

28 January 7.30pm-9pm

New Forest Jazz Workshop, Godshill Village Hall, near Fordingbridge. Different musical director / tutor every time. For anyone of any musical level who gradually wants to learn to play by ear.

20 members. Several gigs a year. For more information call Derek 01425 650770. www.NewForestJazz Workshop.co.uk

28 |

this month

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

29-31 January

The planned two day strike

by GMB members in the Ambulance Service is due to start at 12 noon and continue until 12 noon on 31 January, plus 12 hour strike in rest of NHS in England and Northern Ireland (9am-9pm on 29 January). “Further stoppages across the NHS are inevitable should Jeremy Hunt continue to refuse to hold discussions to settle the pay dispute,” says Rehana Azam, GMB NHS National Officer.

3 February 10.15am

Free cycle ride with the Borough of Poole. The one hour ride will be led by experienced leaders starting at the Civic Centre and following a traffic-free route around Poole Park, Baiter and Whitecliff parks. To join email transportationhelpdesk@poole. gov.uk or call 01202 262000 to book a place. Loan bikes can be reserved at time of booking or use your own.

3 February

Bournemouth Shakespeare Players will be holding a Shakespeare and Drama Workshop. £5. Further details 01202 534776. www.bshakespearep.org

4 February 12 noon

Ferndown Probus Club lunch and talk ‘Espionage, Sabotage and Illusion’, Dudsbury Golf Club. 01202 875757

4 February 7.30pm

Andrew Varley playing Tyros 5 TRX System at Verwood Organ and Keyboard Society at the Hub, Verwood. Everyone welcome. Tickets on the door £7. (£5 for members, £4 membership fee).

VIEWPOINT January 2015

5 February 7.30pm

Verwood and District Horticultural Society, AGM. Verwood Memorial Hall.

01202 814376

7 February 8pm

23 February 10.30am

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

01202 827800

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

01202 248932

24 February 7.30pm

8 February 10am-12noon

25 February 7.30pm

Christchurch winter bird boat cruise around the harbour.

Meet at ferry flag on Mudeford Quay. Adults £12, under 13s £6, RSPB members £10.

Booking essential.

07968 334441

12 February 7.30pm Verwood and 3LX Twinning Association, talk by Paul Hyland ‘On the Art of the Impossible’ – magic demonstrations. Heathland Heritage Centre, Verwood.

01202 826449

17 February 11am

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

St Michael’s Parish Centre off Manor Road. 01202 824175 Verwood Organ & Keyboard Society. Chris Powell playing the Roland Atelier AT900C at the Hub, Verwood. Tickets on the door £7 (£5 members, £4 membership fee).

5 March 7.30pm

Verwood and District Horticultural Society, ‘Vegetable Growing’, talk

by Kelvin Mason. Verwood Memorial Hall. 01202 814376

7-8 March

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

01303 215001

8 March 10.30am-2pm

Wimborne pancake race around Minster. Competitors enrol 10.30am. Bring pan and pancake.

Damerham Potato Day and Seed Fair, Damerham Village Hall. 01749 860039

17 February 7.30pm

Blood Donor Session, Verwood Hub. 01202 828740

Concert of popular music

by Bournemouth Electronic Organ Society at the Allendale Community Centre, Wimborne.

01202 590383

19 February 8pm

Verwood Traditional Jazz Club, The Hideaway. 17 Moorlands Road, Verwood presents Sunset Cafe Stompers. Doors open 7pm.

01202 873725

11 March 1.30-3.30pm | 4.30-7pm 14 March 8pm

DJ Rockin’ Si presents Jack Rabbit Slim, rockabilly / garage / sleaze-a-billy music with a lot of rockin’ rhythm, 1950s to 21st century. Playing their own material (record label Western Star) as well as cover songs from Elvis to Garry Newman.

Barrington Theatre, Penny’s Walk, Ferndown. £10 adv. £12 on door.

17 March 7.30pm Verwood Historical Society, Film by Brian Petit ‘Wildlfie on my Doorstep’. St Michael’s Parish Centre off Manor Road.

01202 824175

19 March 8pm Verwood Traditional Jazz Club, The Hideaway. 17 Moorlands Road, Verwood presents New Orleans Heat. Doors open 7pm 01202 873725

23 March 10.30am Music for the Mind for people with memory problems, aimed at carers and cared for, United Reformed Church, Verwood.

01202 827800

25 March 7.30pm Verwood Organ & Keyboard Society. Robert Wolfe playing the Lowrey Royale at the Hub, Verwood. £7 (members £5)

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

07815 824841

28 March 12pm-4.30pm Bournemouth Orchid Fair and Show. Entrance fee £3 per person. Children U16 free with paying adult. Exquisite and intriguing orchids on display.

Orchid clinic. Orchids on sale.

Free potting demonstrations.

Bring along your plants for free advice. Repotting service from £1. Allendale Community Centre, Hanham Road, Wimborne BH21 1AS. 07712 479056

1 April 12noon Ferndown Probus Club lunch and talk ‘Freelance Comedy Writing’, Dudsbury Golf Club.

01202 875757

ITION COMPET

Avoid the January blues with mags4dorset and the Barrington Theatre’s competition

With a reputation as one of the most exciting and stylish new wave bands on the circuit, Bournemouth based The Producers are returning to the Barrington Theatre in Ferndown on Friday 20 February.

The band are among the leaders of the the current blues phenomenon and have been receiving rave reviews. The Producers are regaining the loyal following which made them so popular in their previous forms.

New material is continually being written and incorporated into their set which contains many of the previously recorded tracks.

Bass player Dave Saunders and frontman Harry Skinner formed The Producers in 1990.

They went on to be one the most popular blues outfit in the country at that time winning the Blues Band of the Year award four

times, releasing 7 CD albums one of which ‘Ain’t No Love in the World’ was nominated for the Best Blues Album award.

The Producers gave their last concert on New Year’s Eve 2001/2 after a six month farewell tour of the UK. Now the band is back with the reformed version including Harry and Dave who are joined by Ray Drury on organ/piano and Biff Smith on drums and percussion. New songs have been written and loyal fans will recognise some reworked stage favourites as they move on from but definitely not forget the past musical history of the band.

The Producers play the freshest live blues in Britain today and are selling-out club dates.

in and around the area how to enter Enter through our website: www.mags4dorset.co.uk or send your answer on a postcard to The Producers competition, mags4dorset, 1st Floor, King George V Pavilion, Peter Grant Way, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9EN. The first correct entry drawn will be the winners. Employees of Page and Pulford Ltd and The Barrington are not permitted to enter. There is no cash alternative. The editor’s decision is final.

For your chance to win two tickets to see The Producers answer this question:

WHAT IS THE NAME OF THE PRODUCERS BASS PLAYER? The closing date is Monday 9 February.

MOVIES MUSEUM APPEAL A new museum – which could claim the title of the smallest in the county – is to open at the Regent Centre in Christchurch.

The cinema museum will measure just 15ft 6ins in length and 12ft 4ins in width, and be located in the projection box on top of the roof.

The introduction of digital cinema at the Regent in 2012, left unused space in the projection box and three local enthusiasts have been given permission from the Board at the Regent to create a museum.

Philip Stevens of Mudeford, a former Regent projectionist; John Thornley of Bournemouth, a former projectionist at the Rex in Wareham, the last cinema in Dorset to use the old carbon arcs to illuminate a film projector and Bob Dobson of Bournemouth, a former Cinema Engineer for Westrex and projectionist at the Regent Cinema from June 1961 – July 1962, are behind the scheme.

Exhibits will include a 1933 Kalee Eleven 35mm projector with a Westrex sound system dating from 1954/5. A 35mm projector, a Simplex E7 with an RCA sound system from about 1937, is now set up in situ to be used as an historic projector to demonstrate short 35mm celluloid film shows on the Regent’s Big Screen.

Other memorabilia at the Regent Cinema Museum includes: a rewinder for getting a roll of celluloid

film back to the start of the reel; anamorphic lenses for showing Cinemascope films; old 35mm trailers, including an end of programme God Save the Queen trailer; cinema posters, stills, slides and hanging cards used to advertise films at the Regent.

Although many of the exhibits were used at the Regent, the Museum is intended to house equipment sourced from other venues as well.

Philip, John and Bob are keen to involve the community in this living record of one of Christchurch’s oldest and best-loved community facilities and have launched an appeal to the general public to share any stories, memories and memorabilia from the golden age of the silver screen at the Regent.

Contact Philip Stevens on 07552 781184 or philipstevens31@talktalk.net

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

| 29

motoring

MIGHTY MOTORING MARVELS KIA C’EED GT TECH Stephen Turvil | stephenturvil@googlemail.com

30 |

VIEWPOINT January 2015

“

This family class vehicle has 201bhp, 265Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm and hits 62mph in 7.4 seconds. This frontwheel-drive plaything also corners with confidence thanks But Kia now wants to find a to its stiffened suspension, has nicely weighted steering and slick six-speed manual transmission. It is a joy to new type of buyer. It wants drive – far better than most people assume based on the those who crave something badge. But despite its sporty credentials it is practical as it sharp, fast, and engaging has five doors, a spacious cabin, 362-litre cargo capacity that still has the strengths and fair running costs. It averages 38.2mpg and can be associated with the brand taxed for £290 in year one, then £205 thereafter.

The GT Tech has sporty styling to further change the public’s perception. This incorporates 18-inch alloy wheels that house red brake callipers. The privacy glass, rear spoiler, chrome window surrounds, low front bumper and large air intake further enhance its appeal. Exterior colours are Track Red (solid), Phantom Black (metallic) and Fusion White (metallic). The cabin is special too. Highlights include the halfleather seats that hug the motorist’s hips and shoulders. This tight fit holds him/her in place while cornering hard and testing the stability management system that minimises under-steer and oversteer. This type of driving should, of course, be reserved for track days. The cabin’s high-gloss vent surrounds, leather wheel and red stitching further emphasise its sporty nature. Standard equipment included is: satellite navigation, reversing camera and auto-dimming mirror. Furthermore, the motorist – assuming he/she has the key fob nearby – can unlock the car by pressing a button on its handle. It can then be started via a switch rather than with the key. Finally, the GT has hill-start that prevents it rolling forward or back on slopes. All this on a Kia? What a way to change the public’s perception.

“

The Kia c’eed GT Tech is a hot-hatch that changes the public’s perception of its manufacturer. But why? Kia Motors – in recent times – has been perceived as a brand that builds capable but everyday cars. And there is nothing wrong with that. This enabled it to attract buyers wanting practical, easy to live with transport backed by a seven-year warranty. But Kia now wants to find a new type of buyer. It wants those who crave something sharp, fast, and engaging that still has the strengths associated with the brand. The c’eed GT Tech 1.6 T is the solution.

motoring

Funding poured into potholes Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin announced last month that a record £6 billion will be spent on tackling potholes and improving local roads between 2015 and 2021 enough to fix around 18 million potholes across the country.

It is the first time councils have been given locked-in funding over this length of time.

The Department for Transport allocates funding based on local need, so councils with larger highway networks receive more of the funding.

Over £4.7 billion will be shared between 115 councils, while a further £575 million will be available through a new challenge fund to help repair and maintain local highway infrastructure. It was also announced that £578 million has been set aside for an incentive fund scheme which will start in 2016 to reward councils who demonstrate they are delivering value for money in carrying out cost effective improvements.

All Shook Up!

LIFE-LONG FAN: Lady Fiona Montagu with the Cadillac

The latest exhibit at the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu is the 1977 Cadillac Seville once owned by the King of Rock & Roll, Elvis Presley.

Purchased by Elvis in October 1976, the car is in original condition and still has the CB radio that he installed to communicate with the kitchen at Graceland and to the guard house outside Graceland.

One of the first people to see the car at Beaulieu was Lady Fiona Montagu, wife of the museum’s founder, Lord Montagu.

She has been a life-long fan of Elvis and posed for a picture beside the car in her own version of his famous Las Vegas white jumpsuit. Lady Montagu said: “I am a huge fan and had the costume made to wear at an Elvis themed fund raising evening we held in the museum last year in support of our Beaulieu education charity, the Countryside Education Trust.”

Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements

IN THE DRIVING SEAT: Elvis 15.8.1977

Nov 2014

Page & Pulford Limited (“the Publisher”) reserves the right to refuse publication of any advertisement without notice or explanation.

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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.

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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

| 31

specialist services BUILDING & REPAIRS

DECORATING

GARAGE DOORS

FENCING

FENCING

LOCKS & GLAZING

SHUTTERS & BLINDS

ROOFING

LOCKSMITHS

MAINTENANCE

FENCING

PEST CONTROL

STORAGE

TREE SURGERY

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

| 33

specialist services TILING

WORK TOPS

WINDOW REPAIRS

WINDOW REPAIRS

FREEADS Proceed with caution when buying privately. mags4dorset cannot accept any liablity for transactions carried out as a result of responding to these freeads.

Fish kettle, 24in long. £10.

Ferndown. 01202 871026 Garden Swing Ball. As new. £10.

Ferndown. 01202 871026 Smokeless fuel, 8 x 25kg Taybrite. £10 each. Verwood.

01202 828389

Mirror, gilt surround, 42in x 30in. Good condition. £40.

Bournemouth. 01202 522928 Six soup dishes, with handles and saucers, maroon and gold on white. Perfect condition. £35.

Ferndown. 01202 876951

Quality curtains, heavy Chenille, dusky pink, tie backs, 52in width x 100in. West Moors. 01202 873725

Drawing board, 920cm x 650cm, parallel motion T square. Height adjustable and fold up stand. £35.

Ashley Heath. 01425 474814

Lady’s bicycle, 26in wheels, 10 gears, silver. Excellent condition. £25. Verwood. 01202 826148

Peugeot 206LX 4 door OU52 KJX, Ex cond. Blue. £700 ono.

Verwood 01202 827694

Bebecar Raider travel system, pram, pushchair, car seat, rain covers, grey. £75. West Moors.

0781 7600257

Desk suitable for study, Teak colour. £25. Ashley Heath 01425 461843

Lady’s bicycle, 6 gears, hardly used. Good condition. £30.

Ferndown. 01202 891773 Aquarium, with pump filter, gravel, toys and cleaning equipment. Excellent condition. £80 ono. Ferndown. 01202 874939

120 Bass Bandmaster Piano Accordian, Black and White.

Comfortable straps and back pad fitted. Hard case. £120. Verwood 01202 826042 Under counter larder fridge, £50. Louvre fronted wardrobes (pair) £60. St Leonards 01425 483896

Larder fridge, £50. Tall fridge freezer, £25. St Leonards. 01425 483896

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VIEWPOINT January 2015

G-Plan Round Table 100cms dia extends to oval 132cms, Table top is supported by a central pillar. Ex cond. £120. Verwood 07594 527920

If you wish to advertise in this section, complete the form and send to mags4dorset, 1st Floor, King George V Pavilion, Peter Grant Way, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9EN. Free insertions limited to two items per person. Trade adverts must be paid for £30 per item plus VAT, max 25 words.

Electric towel rail, chrome, Size 45 x 81. £15. Verwood 01202 828029.

Name:..................................................................................................

Professional nail gel UV lamp, New. Still in box. Unwanted gift. £10. West Moors 01202 868733

.............................................................................................................

Golf clubs, 9 matching irons, 2 Ping woods, putter, bag with stand, brolley. Ex condition. £30.

West Parley. 01202 572367

.............................................................................................................

Mirror, shabby chic style with bevelled glass in ivory and gilt frame, approx 35 x 25 inch. £20.

Ferndown. 01202 873411 Oval table, M&S ‘Home’, 70 inches extending another 21. VGC. £45. Ferndown. 01202 873411 Corner hanging wall cabinet, vintage shabby chic, ivory painted. £35. Ferndown. 01202 873411 Mirror, white wooden frame with gilt tracing, approx 24 x 18 inch. £12. Ferndown. 01202 873411

Address:..............................................................................................

Item for Sale (short description max 25 words):.............................

.............................................................................................................

Price:....................................................................................................

Telephone Number:............................................................................

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local

MONTHLY HOROSCOPES with RUSSELL GRANT JANUARY 2015

ARIES March 21 - April 20 The New Moon on the 20th brings a welcome opportunity to have fun with a group of friends. Be sure to bring some business cards to a party, as you’ll make at least one valuable professional contact.

TAURUS April 21 - May 21 Flattery won’t take you far at midmonth. If you’re going to advance at work, you will need to put in long hours and produce concrete results.

Fortunately, the New Moon on the 20th is ideal for getting a promotion or better paid job. Don’t hesitate to ask a former boss or colleague for a recommendation.

GEMINI May 22 - June 21 Let someone close to your heart introduce you to their favourite food, film maker, or author. A public presentation on the 30th will go very well.

This is your big chance to make a name in your desired industry.

Fame and acclaim will be yours by the end of January.

CANCER June 22 - July 23 Money from an inheritance, refund, or grant will allow you to afford more luxuries at mid-month. The New Moon on the 20th marks an exciting new chapter in an intimate relationship. This is a great time to experiment with lovemaking techniques.

Are you single? Be ready to meet someone special at work.

LEO July 24 - August 23 The New Moon on the 20th marks a turning point in a relationship. This is a fantastic time to embark on a business partnership with a seasoned expert. If you have a romantic partner, you’ll have to take over some responsibilities. Be as generous and compassionate as possible. By rising to these challenges, you and your amour will become closer than ever.

VIRGO August 24 - September 23 A freelance work assignment will fall into your lap at mid-month, giving you extra money for luxuries. A public presentation will go very well at the end of the month.

Don’t be surprised when your boss gives you better assignments as January turns to February.

LIBRA September 24 - October 23 You’re wonderfully attractive in the early days of January, drawing admiring stares wherever you go. An inheritance, refund, or legal settlement will give you more money for luxuries as January turns to February.

Buy yourself some beautiful new clothes or jewellery. Better yet, invest in a gorgeous work of art that has been tempting you since last year.

SCORPIO October 24 - November 22 You’ll be quite competitive in mid-January. This is a great time to participate in a contest, race, or debate. Trust your romantic perceptions at the end of January. If you suspect someone has a crush on you, you’re probably right. You’ll have to make the first move. Your admirer is in awe of you and doesn’t have the courage to admit their true feelings.

SAGITTARIUS November 23 - December 21 The New Moon on the 20th brings a job involving teaching, writing, or research. It will feel wonderful to earn money through your expertise. You can save money by spending more time at home at the end of January. Not only that, but focusing on domestic life will strengthen family relationships.

Take this opportunity to reconnect with your nearest and dearest.

CAPRICORN December 22 - January 20 The New Moon on the 20th brings an alternative source of income. Working for a government agency, university, or hospital will prove quite lucrative. It will also allow you to spend more time with your nearest and dearest.

False praise will backfire as January turns to February.

AQUARIUS January 21 - February 19 Working on behalf of a charitable organisation will be enjoyable in mid-January. You’re bound to make some friends along the way. The New Moon on the 20th is ideal for updating your look. Get a different hairstyle or schedule a cosmetic procedure.

PISCES February 20 - March 20 The New Moon on the 20th invites you to launch a solo project. If you do a good job with this venture, you’ll pave the way for a prestigious career. You’ll look your best as January turns to February. Take this opportunity to win someone’s heart. If you’re already in a relationship, your partner will be like putty in your hands.

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

| 35

specialist services

ASK THE EXPERT

By Nolan Irving

Q. What do you think of the recent Stamp Duty changes – and what effect do you think they will have on the market?

A. You won’t be surprised to hear that like practically every estate agent in the country – except, of course, for those operating at the ‘country house’ end of the spectrum, or in prime Central London – I think the Stamp Duty changes represent some of the best news the property market has had in years. And not before time, either.

A

fter years of pleading and lobbying from everyone involved in the property industry, the Government has finally acted to end the iniquities of the old Stamp Duty (SD) regime – so much so, in fact, that around 98% of all buyers will be better off, in most cases to the tune of thousands of pounds. Only those people buying properties costing more than £937,500 will actually pay more.

Let me give you an example.

The biggest problem with the old SD regime was the so-called ‘slab’ effect – which basically meant that if you paid just one pound over a threshold, you paid the new higher rate on

36 |

VIEWPOINT January 2015

the entire amount. Not any more. Like income tax, the new duty regime is progressive – which means you only pay the higher rate on the portion of the purchase price above the threshold. So, if you were buying a house for, say, £350,000, under the old system, you would have paid 3% on the entire amount – ie, £10,500.

Under the new system, you will pay 2% between £125,000 and £250,000 (£2,500), plus a further 5% on the extra £100,000 (£5,000), making a grand total of £7,500. In other words a saving of £3,000.

So, as I said, this is great news for the property market.

The abolition of the unfair and

archaic slab system will take the sting out of the tail for hundreds of thousands of buyers on the lower to middle rungs of the property ladder and put thousands of pounds back in their pockets, just when they need it most. At the same time, it will eliminate the distortion in property pricing that occurred when sellers tried to avoid the old duty thresholds, and therefore allow properties to be more fairly priced.

All in all then, it looks like 2015 is going to be a particularly lively year in the property market. So, give me a call if you are thinking of selling and I will be delighted to pop round and have a chat with you.

Don’t get caught out in the cold With the onset of the British winter, here is a brief checklist of things to do that can help keep your house warmer and more weatherproof

Roof Inspect and replace cracked tiles.

Loft Check your insulation is up to standard and in good condition. Ensure the lid is on the cold-water tank. Insulate water pipes.

Gutters and drains Clear leaves and debris to prevent overflowing, which can cause water damage to external walls.

Walls Did you know that 33 per cent of heat lost in the home is through the walls? If you haven’t got cavity wall insulation, then consider it because it will help reduce the heat loss in the winter. Also check the pointing on the exterior of the walls – frost can get inside poorly maintained walls and creat havoc.

Windows Double glazing cuts heat loss through windows by 50 per cent, but if you can’t afford it, consider fitting secondary glazing or putting polythene across the window frames. Minimize draughts.

Thermally insulated curtains for windows and external doors will help.

Letterboxes Stop draughts by fitting a cover.

Floors Fill gaps between exposed floor boards to prevent up draughts and think about putting rugs down for the winter. Ensure central heating pipework in the ventilated floor voids is insulated otherwise 70 per cent of the heat input may be lost.