Viewpoint March 2016

Established Over 35 Years Mid Mar 2016

Your Independent Local Magazine

VIEWPOINT

Volume 40, Issue 5

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

Ferndown’s April Fool’s Day Market is for real It may be 1 April when the new market in Ferndown puts in its first appearance, but it’s definitely not a spoof.

On 1 April and every Friday thereafter, this new vibrant market, offering a brand new shopping experience in the town will become a firm fixture in Ferndown’s calendar.

Turn to pages 24 and 25 to find out more

take one it’s

ISSN 2397-7183 (print) ISSN 2397-7191 (online)

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Inside

• EXCLUSIVE IN TERVIEW WITH RACHEL ANN AS ‘THE VOICE’ KNOCKOUTS CO MMENCE • CREATIVE W RI SHORTLIST ANTINGS AWARDS NOUNCED • HIDDEN GEMS REVEALED

March 2016 Vol 40 • Issue 5

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 BrightBox Designs: 01202 233441 louispulford@brightboxdesigns.co.uk

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

Well, that’s it. My children are both officially adults and my job as a mother is over. They are now independent and grown up and don’t need my help, advice or in fact, mothering any more. As if! At my son’s 21st party, he still expected me to have remembered candles, glasses, a knife, serviettes and all the other things children never think about. I had already had to come to the rescue when my daughter’s train was delayed because of football supporters and find helium balloons in a strange town on a Sunday morning. Supermum to the rescue – again.

And to be honest I know it will never change. Once a mother always a mother – and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Gone are the days when Mothering Sunday was one of the days that children managed to get home to see their mother. These days we can keep in touch with our mothers – and our children – so easily that Mother’s Day has lost much of its meaning. But I still celebrated it, happy to be pampered and treated by my children and be reminded how lucky I am to be part of a loving family.

So to mothers everywhere – I hope you had a very happy Mother’s Day – and when your little darlings are driving you mad be warned, 21 years goes by in a flash.

Enjoy every moment of it.

Pic of the month

editorial

On cue: Ringwood School headteacher Christina Edwards get a few lessons from the boys at the opening of The Place.

More details on page 15.

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 24 MARCH 2016

Liz Turner, Assistant Editor Twitter @mags4dorset Facebook: www.facebook.com/mags4dorset.news Join the editor at www.facebook.com/janine.pulford Website: www.mags4dorset.co.uk Email the editor at: editorial@mags4dorset.co.uk

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

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

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TO ADVERTISE IN VIEWPOINT Call 01202 816140 or 870270

Clothes for patients appeal Each year over 500 patients at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital are given clothes to go home in.

For many, a visit to hospital, especially the emergency department, is an unexpected trip so they don’t have time to pack a bag. The majority of patients have someone to bring more clothes in for them but there are lots that have no one to call.

These patients may have had items of clothing cut off or have had an unplanned admission. If they haven’t got someone who can bring some clothes in for them, hospital staff visit the Bournemouth Hospital Charity’s Appeal Shop appeal shop to get the necessary items.

The charity has now launched the Clothes for Patients Appeal asking for donations of clean jogging pants, t-shirts, new underwear, socks and disposable slippers.

Debbie Anderson, head of fundraising at Bournemouth Hospital Charity, said: “As well as providing clothing for some patients, the appeal shop raises thousands of pounds each year by selling various donated items in the shop in the main atrium at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital.”

If you can help, the charity appeal shop is open between 10am and 2.30pm and the charity office between 8.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday.

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VIEWPOINT March 2016

Teatime treat Access to the tearoom at the Priest’s House Museum and Garden in Wimborne will be free for customers on Wednesdays until 23 March.

There is a separate admission charge for visitors to the house and museum.

The tearoom is set in the idyllic walled garden, which features old varieties of fruit trees and colourful herbaceous borders.

The menu features a range of local Dorset products.

There is a separate admission charge for visitors to the house and museum.

Tune into Verwood Choral Society Verwood Choral Society is looking for new members.

It was formed in 1988 by Anne Mayo, who is still the musical director, and the society’s repertoire covers a wide variety of music.

Two concerts are held every year with all the proceeds going to charity with thousands of pounds having been raised.

Rehearsals are held every Wednesday from 7.30-9pm at St Michael and All Angels Church in Verwood with the emphasis on fun and an added bonus that singing has been shown to be beneficial to health.

There are no auditions and members simply have to have a love of singing.

To find out more contact Bella, the secretary on 01202 820941 – or just turn up.

March for Men 2015

o Sign up now t

‘March for Men’

Bournemouth Hospital Charity’s March for Men is returning to Bournemouth seafront on 20 March and aims to raise thousands of pounds for a new piece of imaging equipment that will benefit men with prostate cancer at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital (RBH).

Money raised from the event will be used to fund men’s health projects at Royal Bournemouth Hospital including the purchase of a new Olympus image management hub. This will be used alongside the hospital’s da Vinci Robot, used in complex major surgery to treat men with prostate cancer.

The new equipment costs around £12,000 and takes live images directly from the robot and records it in 3D. Consultants can then use this footage when analysing patient outcomes and can identify aspects of the technique which impact most directly on patient outcomes. The equipment will also benefit patients who undergo kidney and colorectal surgical procedures in the future.

Kevin Turner, consultant urological surgeon, said: “The new hub will be a fantastic resource for the urology department and will enable surgeons to better look at patient outcomes.

“This equipment will also enable us to share videos with surgeons who have been mentoring us in advanced robotic surgery and allow us to be ‘remotely’ mentored. This has obvious time and money benefits as we will be able to be mentored at

the hospital instead of having to go abroad.”

Over 200 patients have benefitted from the da Vinci Robot since it was purchased two years ago and this new imaging technology will make a big difference in how men are treated in the future.

March for Men encourages men, women and children to walk, run or march 1km, 5km, or 10km along Bournemouth seafront and lower gardens.

Hundreds of people took part last year helping to fund the template biopsy machine which has benefited over 100 men with prostate cancer since it was bought last year.

If you would like to register for the event, log on to www. bournemouthhospitalcharity.org or call 01202 704060

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

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Council tax hike for all households B

Cuts in government funding has forced local authorities to increase council tax with county councils having to shore up social care

oth Christchurch Borough Council and East Dorset District Council have agreed an increase of £5 for a Band D property on their element of the council tax for 2016/17, the highest increase allowed by the government without forcing a local referendum.

This equates to a 2.7% rise in Christchurch and 2.47% in East Dorset.

Cllr Ray Nottage, leader of Christchurch Borough Council, said: “Let no one underestimate the task before us of responding to the government’s strategy of local government being self-financing mainly through council tax and business rates. Our forecast was that revenue support grant from government would disappear in four years. We now know this will happen in two.

“The increase of 10 pence per week at band D equates to an annual tax of £189.99. This will enable us to have a balanced budget for next year and will contribute going forward to the savings demanded by government.”

Cllr Spencer Flower, leader of East Dorset District Council, said: “The

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VIEWPOINT March 2016

financial environment over the next four years will be extremely challenging both nationally and internationally.

The government’s deficit reduction programme has, and will continue to have, significant implications on local government funding.

“The government measures to address the country’s structural budget deficit, means that local authorities have seen significantly reduced funding since 2010. This Council has been able to balance its books for next year despite the significant reduction in government funding, because of the prudent approach to financial management down the years. This has been achieved without the need to resort to cutting discretionary services.”

East Dorset’s annual council tax for a Band D property will be £207.32.

Taking into account council tax elements from Dorset County Council, Dorset Fire Authority and Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner, the total Band D council tax in Christchurch in 2016/17 will be £1713.78 (with an additional £12.98 for Burton Parish residents and £27.01 for Hurn Parish residents).

For East Dorset the total Band D council tax will be £1731.11 (with an additional amount for the town or parish element of the council tax, varying according to location).

New Forest District Council has set the council tax at £158.36 per annum for a Band D household an increase of 1.67%.

Cllr Barry Rickman, council leader, said: “The total cost of our services for 2016/17 will be £3.05 a week for the average household - an increase of 5p a week for NFDC services. Over the year, this is an increase of £2.60, and not the £5 increase we are permitted to set without referendum.

This level is one that we feel balances the budget to enable us to continue to meet the needs of our residents.

“A major reduction in the grant we receive from

government means that our local council services - including refuse collection, recycling, street cleaning, environmental health, planning, licensing, housing advice, and our five leisure centres - require that we have an increase. Our priority remains to provide good value for money services that our community want at a cost which is fair and reasonable - this budget means we will achieve that.”

Council tax is collected by us on behalf of Hampshire County Council (£1,079.28 per annum), the Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire (£160.46 per annum), Hampshire Fire and Rescue Authority (£62.60 per annum) Town and Parish Councils (£73.74 per annum - average), along with the £158.36 per annum for NFDC. This means a bill for a Band D property of £1,534.44 in total.

This is the first time in six years council tax for NFDC services has been increased.

Dorset County Council is putting up its share of council tax by 3.99 per cent, including 2 per cent to help pay for adult social care.

The county council was able to increase council tax by up to 1.99% before triggering a local referendum but the government has allowed it to raise it by a further 2 %, which can only be spent on adult social care. In Dorset, this will raise around £3.9m.

Despite a 3.99% increase, Hampshire County Council is asking residents to pay the lowest rate of council tax of all county councils nationally.

As with Dorset, the council tax increase is the maximum amount permissible, and 2% of this total sum will support the delivery of adult social care.

This financial strategy was supported by the majority of people responding to the County Council’s public consultation in the summer.

Council tax increase: Christchurch 2.7% East Dorset 2.47% New Forest 1.67% Dorset 3.99% Hampshire 3.99%

What can you do?

Speeding motorists threat to animals Nearly 10,000 motorists were caught speeding in the New Forest when a police camera van was used in a bid to stop animals being killed on the roads.

Last year was a record low for animal accidents in the New Forest with 55 Forest animals killed and 21 injured on the roads.

But campaigners say just one animal hurt is too many.

Thanks to further funding by the Verderers, the mobile speed camera will continue policing New Forest roads for at least another year as part of a number of measures to reduce accidents.

In 2015, 9,765 motorists were caught exceeding speed limits in and around the Forest. Despite the risks, half those caught were on unfenced roads with freeroaming animals owned by commoners.

Including where animals

were thought not to be seriously hurt, the number of reported accidents decreased from 140 in 2014 to 127 in 2015. The number of animals killed and injured fell from 91 to 76. Pigs, cattle, donkeys and sheep were involved in accidents as well as ponies.

Head Agister Jonathan Gerrelli, who is also a Commoner owning animals out on the Forest said: ‘Animals do not have any road sense. When drivers see an animal on the road or on the verge they need to slow right down and give the animal plenty of space.

Drivers should be especially careful at night.”

The New Forest Commoners’ Defence Association (CDA) developed the mobile speed camera project in partnership with the New Forest Verderers, and Hampshire Constabulary,

Drivers can avoid collisions involving animals on roads in the New Forest by: • Taking note of warning signs.

• Keeping your speed down (it’s 40mph for a reason in areas like the New Forest) and being prepared to reduce your speed according to the visibility.

• Being especially aware at night. Using headlights on high beam if there is no oncoming traffic and dipping them quickly (and slowing down) when oncoming traffic appears.

using nighttime infra-red technology which enables enforcement to take place day and night. The Speed Camera Initiative is funded by the New Forest Verderers in partnership with Hampshire Constabulary.

CDA Chairman Graham Ferris said: “The number of drivers caught driving at well over the speed limit on Forest roads is totally unacceptable.

Motorists are putting the animals, themselves and their passengers in danger and risk seriously damaging their vehicles. Many are now facing fines and points on their licence.”

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

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Column supplied by Wessex Pensions

Pension case study

Daniel Parkin

I am a 42-year-old working mother of two living in rented accommodation. I am worried that when I retire, the state pension won’t cover my rent, let alone my living expenses. When I started working in the mid-90s I assumed a pension was something I could think about later. By the time I was old enough to think I might need one, I worked for a large company who took care of it for me. Now I work in a small company so I’m currently not paying a pension at all.

Q. Is this wilful blindness as so many news outlets seem to be suggesting?

A. No. This situation could be applied to a lot of people your age. In your case you could have missed advice because by the time the government was worried enough to start doing something about the pension gap, you had been working for 15 years. Perhaps you were too busy to take on board what was being said, or maybe it wasn’t presented in a way that was easily understandable.

The good news is, you can now save for your retirement with a workplace pension. Under a piece of legislation entitled ‘Qualifying Earnings’ your company is currently obligated to provide a pension, and pay a contribution equal to 1% of everything you earn over £485 a month (rising to 3% in April 2019). You can contribute anything from 1% to 100%. Everything that is contributed gets some form of tax relief. For example, a pension contribution of £10 from the employer, matched with a £10 contribution from yourself after tax relief would cost you £8. Where else can a £8 contribution immediately turn into £20. Ask your employer now when they are setting up a pension, and plan what you can afford to pay in. This should help you look forward to a more comfortable retirement.

Daniel Parkin PGDip DipFA Independent Financial Adviser

For further information about pensions contact Daniel Parkin, Wessex Pensions 07801 432182

Beheadings open meeting!

West Moors Parish Council will be holding its annual public meeting in the Pavilion, Fryer Field, Bond Avenue, West Moors on 14 April at 7pm.

Steve Wallis, senior archaeologist at Dorset County Council will start the meeting with a talk on the remains of 50 beheaded Vikings found during the construction of the Weymouth Relief Road. It will be followed by reports from the committee chairmen. This will be followed by questions and comments from parishioners. Although anyone may attend the meeting, only registered electors of the parish of West Moors may speak and vote.

Verwood Town Council grant aid Applications for the first round of grant aid available in 2016 from Verwood Town Council closed on 1 March. Grants are awarded twice a year to local organisations in April and October and the next deadline is 1 September.

Organisations wishing to apply should write to: Verwood Town Council, 28 Vicarage Road, Verwood, BH31 6DR or email: verwoodtc@btconnect.com or call 01202 820880.

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VIEWPOINT March 2016

8th Creative Writing Awards Worthwhile role for retirees Congratulations to everyone who The shortlist is: entered the MAGS4DORSET Girl on a bus Creative Writing Awards. All the Lin White, Wimborne – Bus Pass entries, without exception were Viv Gough, Verwood – A Rough well-written. There were three Ride for Sara themes: ‘Girl on a bus’, ‘The Susan Row, Ferndown – The thief next door’ and ‘The worst Importance of Being Sharon interview of my life’. Nearly 50 David Arkell – Decades of Ups entries were received, mainly and Downs from local writers and the most Marianne Ashurst, Wimborne – popular theme by far was ‘Girl on Singing in the Rain a bus’.

Mrs C Park, Bournemouth – The shortlist was selected Hearts and Arts by editor, author and publisher Janine Pulford who said, “The The Thief Next Door stories were exceptional, which Mike Lawrence, Wimborne made the selection extremely Anne Masson, Ringwood difficult. I would like to mention Marianne Ashurst, Wimborne Bryan Roe from Ringwood with – Vera and the Great Cake his story ‘The Thief Next Door’ Robbery about his character Bill’s onions, The Worst Interview of My Life and West Moors writer Peter Barry Dunning, West Moors Hunt’s ‘Made to Measure,’ which was both clever and funny. These were First prize is £150 and very close contenders second prize is £50. Both for the shortlist.” the winner and runnerFamous saga up will have their stories author Carol Rivers is published in 4Dorset judging the and/or Viewpoint shortlisted Magazine and each stories and will receive bonus the winner prizes of ‘The Fight and For Lizzie Flowers’ runnerand ‘Lizzie of up will be Langley Street’ by announced Carol Rivers.

Judge: Carol Rivers shortly.

“Are you retired, looking for things to do, to keep you off the streets, to stop you hanging around on street corners? Do you have good driving skills, or have effective organisational skills? Why not consider joining us, as a coordinator, driver, or helper in any other way?”

Derek Ayling, chairman of Two Bridges Care Group made this appeal on 17 February to members of Fordingbridge U3A. He explained that Twin Bridges is a

voluntary care group offering services like transport to and from medical, dental and hospital appointments and collecting prescriptions for people who have health difficulties and require assistance with transport.

Founded in 2004, when volunteers undertook 55 jobs, Two Bridges totted up 623 last year, bringing the grand total to over 5000.

Derek said anyone wanting to put something back into

the community, achieve a sense of purpose and enjoy a challenge, should get in touch with one of the duty coordinators on 0845 838 5902. Volunteer co-ordinators and drivers are currently required for Alderholt, Fordingbridge, Godshill and Sandleheath.

Drivers are reimbursed running costs. The service runs 9am-5pm Monday to Friday. It is not a taxi service.

Loft insulation is not going out of date!

Dorset Police have been alerted to a door-to-door trader in the Ferndown area claiming that loft insulation of the fibre-glass type is out of date and needs to be replaced. The male also stated if it wasn’t changed within six months the resident would be fined £1,900.

The police advice is: do not deal with these individuals, you will not be fined if you don’t have your insulation changed.

If you have any concerns regarding a company contact Citizens Advice on 03454 040506, which is the first point of contact for consumer advice or to report any consumer problem to Trading Standards.

https://www.gov.uk/doorstep-selling-regulations

LETTER

Cameron package a good deal for Britain reform deal which The Prime Minister has secured a historic ’s membership Britain on ndum refere a for way the paves now rvative’s 2015 Conse the in sed promi as Union of the European manifesto. unique place; The Cameron package has put the UK in a membership of and full have We .

Britain for deal good a is it and single market in the equal access to the largest and wealthiest to join the Euro world bigger than even the USA. We do not have Eurozone bailouts. and our taxpayers will not have to pay for that means we We are not members of the Schengen zone; nts or third migra es, refuge t accep to tion obliga are under no so. We have legal country nationals unless we choose to do sovereign country recognition that the UK is an independent a stronger role has ent parliam our y; destin own its of e in charg

union. closer ever to itted comm and we are not and not facts.

Far too often this debate is about emotions le alternative, The ‘out’ campaign has not offered any credib leave’s sake. Why for leave say to h enoug simply not is it and market, putting step out of the world’s largest, wealthiest single the dark? industry, jobs and growth at risk for a leap into and Britain will I support the Prime Minister’s reform deal a member of the ing remain off better and safer er, strong be European Union.

Yours faithfully, Julie Girling MEP For South West England

What are your views on whether Britain should stay in or leave the EU? Email your letters to editorial@mags4dorset.co.uk Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

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gardening

ning gardetime!

It’s

T

he garden really comes alive in April and the number of tasks to be carried out is considerable.

Making the best use of the lengthening days is a bonus and, providing the weather stays good, it can be a brilliant gardening month. In addition to dead-heading spring bulbs, now is the time to get planting and some seeds can be sown directly into the ground or into containers.

It’s also the time of year that you see the first leaves beginning to unfurl on early shrubs and trees such as Japanese maples. An ideal choice of tree for any small, compact or courtyard garden, Japanese maples are great for creating a focal point in the garden and their natural shape and growing habit of branches make them perfect for growing in large patio pots. Different leaf shapes, sizes and range of colours from deep greens to yellow, gold, purple or even variegated patterns gives gardeners a huge variety to choose from. Japanese maples are Plant of the Moment in garden centres and nurseries around the UK, which means you can add a little maple magic to your garden this month that will put on a show from early spring to late autumn.

Don’t forget to mulch any new

plantings with compost. In fact you should start mulching and feeding all plants from now on and throughout the summer. The weeds that have been dormant over the winter will now start bursting into life so now is a good time to take control – and the same applies to the lawn... which will need some care and attention and repair of any bare patches. Here’s what the experts suggest for the gardening ‘to do’ list: Spring is finally in evidence as daffodils and flowering trees start to bloom. Expect the inevitable April showers next month but with sunny days too, when you can turn your attention to the lawn. It’s an exciting month, with indoor-sown seeds well into growth, and it’s also time to start sowing outdoors. Just watch out for frosts...RHS Your garden soil is likely to be in poor condition right now, after the wet winter has washed away many of its nutrients. So one of the very first jobs to do, now that the weather has warmed up, is to get the soil up to scratch – then it can nurture all your plants, just as they’re starting to grow. Alan Titchmarsh Climbing plants will start to grow rapidly now, so make sure they have enough support for the new growth.

Extend your trellis or add more wire to arches and tripods as necessary.

Gently encourage new shoots sideways as they grow. This sends

®Adam Pasco Media: Japanese Maple (Acer shirasawanum ‘Aureum’)

growth hormones along the length of the shoot, rather than just to the tips which will encourage flowering all over the plant. David Domoney For Grow Your Own gardeners vegetable growing really kicks off in April. Chit and plant out second early potatoes in the first half of the month, main crop potatoes in the

second half. It’s also time to sow seed outdoors such as beetroot, carrots, Swiss chard, summer cauliflower, kohl rabi, lettuce, leeks, radish, turnip, spring and pickling onions, peas and perpetual spinach in well-prepared soil. Asparagus crowns and Jerusalem artichoke tubers can also be planted out.

National Garden Gift Vouchers can be bought and redeemed at some 2,000 outlets in the UK, with more than 90,000 garden plants and products on offer. Visit www.thevouchergarden.co.uk to see the outlets that sell and accept them. You can become a fan and buy vouchers on Facebook www.facebook.com/ GardenGiftVouchers or follow on twitter @GardenGiftVouch or via the blog at www.vouchergardenblog.com

Mediterranean gardening At the end of January, ‘Mediterranean Gardening at Home and Abroad’ promised to transport the Fordingbridge & District Horticultural Society to sunnier days. The speaker, Ben Turner, did not disappoint.

A professional horticulturalist and arboriculturist with a love of Mediterranean plants, he split the world map into five Mediterranean climate zones all sharing the characteristics of cool wet winters and long hot summers (50C to 400C).

Plants from such regions are drought tolerant with some even adapted to photosynthesize through their stems and hence no longer need leaves.

Mediterranean plants require good drainage, high light levels and little water: characteristics that could be useful in the UK as climate changes.

Ben went through a whistle-stop tour of shrubs, trees, annuals, bromeliads (or cliff hangers), cacti and succulents, and

geophytes (which have underground storage organs – such as bulbs, tubers and rhizomes). He gave examples from South Africa, Mexico, Chile, Western Australia, New Zealand, Italy and California. So the Mediterranean did get a mention, but the breadth of the countries visited highlighted clearly the spread of areas that share Mediterranean climate conditions.

Ben ended by providing a list of places to visit where Mediterranean plants can be seen, which included Abbotsbury, RHS Wisley Glasshouse and the Royal Botanical Gardens Kew Temperate House.

Table show results were: 3 stems of 3 kinds of foliage - 1st Chris Bennett, 2nd Keith Bennett, 3rd Sue Hockin. 1 garden flower - 1st Chris Bennett, 2nd Keith Bennett, 3rd Jennie Osborne.

From floral art to cookery

Get into the spring of things by visiting the Allendale Community Centre on Saturday 9 April. Wimborne Horticultural Society is holding its spring show and it only costs 60p to get in. Children under 16 are free. For further details call the secretary on 01202 887006 or visit www.wimbornehorticulturalsociety.btck.co.uk

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VIEWPOINT March 2016

ARE DRONES THE FUTURE OF POLICING? According to Dorset’s Police and Crime Commissioner (DPCC), drones could revolutionise policing Drones help officers in their investigations by taking aerial photographs, recording videos and maps.

The force has also used them to photograph crime scenes and road accidents.

DPCC Martyn Underhill believes they have a key role to play in the fight against crime and protecting the public and said: “Policing needs to be at the forefront of technology and quick to embrace innovation.

“Look at how the portable two-way radios transformed policing in the 1960s - I believe drones have the capability to revolutionise the way we

police in this country in a similar way, whilst saving a substantial amount of public money.”

The county’s police force is one of the few that already uses drones, sharing four with Devon & Cornwall in an arrangement that has been fully licensed by the Civil Aviation Authority.

Mr Underhill now wants to see more UAVs unmanned aerial vehicles - used by the police.

“Whether it is helping search for a missing person, recording evidence for later use in a criminal investigation or giving police officers a unique bird’s eye view of a particular situation, the potential UAVs have for helping forces is huge,” he said.

The Surveillance Commissioner Tony Porter visited Dorset last month to see a demonstration of a drone in action. The Strategic Alliance of Dorset, Devon & Cornwall Police are now working with Mr Porter’s office to achieve Third Party Certification regarding the use of drones. This would help them comply with the surveillance camera code of practice. Mr Underhill believes this openness and transparency around UAVs should reassure the public about their use.

He added: “I know there will be some people who feel uneasy about police using this equipment

What are your views on drones being used by the police? Let the editorial team know: editorial@mags4dorset.co.uk or tweet the editor @mags4dorset but in my view, the law-abiding public have nothing to fear. Providing strong governance is in place, there is no reason why police drones can’t become as familiar a sight as patrol cars, a police helicopter or an officer on the beat.”

He sees drones as an “additional tool” in the police toolbox.

“There are exciting opportunities for the future use of police drones. In Dorset we are looking at the potential to use them to 3D map serious road collisions. This could be beneficial in speeding up the safe opening of main arterial routes which often have to be closed for hours following a serious accident.

“And they could also be used to fly automated set routes, for example in a crime hotspot area.

“In an era when police funding is so challenging, all forces need to explore the potential an asset like UAVs would give them.

“I’m delighted Dorset is at the forefront of this technology and I look forward to stepping into the next generation of drones in the near future. I believe, once we demonstrate further the benefits of UAVs, that the public will be fully behind their use in helping keeping them safe.”

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

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in health and fitness

Can you knit

mags4dorset’s charity of the year is

twiddle mitts?

Cherry Tree Nursery in Northbourne Trevor and Eileen

- Advertising feature -

Cherry Tree Nursery:

Eileen’s story

I have been a volunteer at Cherry Tree Nursery for nine years and I have loved every moment Before I was referred to Cherry Tree by my doctor, I had severe anxiety and depression.

I had no structure to my day and was nearly on the verge of ending my life. I was ‘Billy-nomates’.

Today I am a completely different person.

I have everything to live for and I have learned to take care of plants. Just like humans, plants also need loving care and attention. I have learned how to propagate cuttings, weed and feed plants and prune and water them, and over time I learned to relax into the work, so much so that I now love being around plants. I began to feel at peace in myself, and this has continued to the present day.

I consider plants as my friends - they give so much joy just looking at them. I would even go so far as saying I feel a connection with them and that connection is spiritual. I am so lucky to have experienced this. I am lucky also to have fulfilled two of my passions: horticultural work and writing.

These days I write thank you letters to people who donate money to Cherry Tree Nursery, and I get just as much satisfaction from writing as I do from working with plants.

Cherry Tree has given me so much: I have my life back. I have purpose to my days, I have genuine friends and a social life. I cannot put a price on that.

Cherry Tree is not just about the plants, it is also about the people and volunteers and staff. The staff are very supportive. Coming from a very abusive background, I could only ever see the negative, dark side of human nature. One person I need to acknowledge and thank for helping me see the good in people is the manager of Cherry Tree Nursery, Jessica Davies.

Jess you taught by example and I shall always be eternally grateful to you even though it did not sit well with me in the beginning.

The motto ‘Caring for People, Caring for Plants’ is lived in action at Cherry Tree Nursery.

Acceptance is everything. To be accepted fully in one’s humanity is truly a gift to one’s soul.

Be inspired to get active

By Jen Richardson

I started swimming in public sessions at Ferndown Leisure Centre in July 2013 doing 20 lengths of breaststroke. I was swimming whilst coached swim fitness was taking place, and I thought I want to swim like that. I spoke to Janet Latham (swim teacher) and had five one-to-one lessons to learn front crawl.

I set myself the goal of being able to swim in coached swim fitness by January 2014. I practised in public sessions and monitored my progress via SWIMTAG, which I found motivating, and managed to swim 30k in December, some in open water.

I then went to Tuesday and Thursday coached swim fitness sessions. I completed the Swimathon 1.5k in April 2014 and went on to do the 5k Swimathon a year later.

After putting in time and effort and having lessons and training at Ferndown Leisure Centre, I achieved my goals, including the Pier-to-Pier swim in 2014 and 2015. David Ayres, on Thursday night’s coached Swim Fitness session at Ferndown, is helping me with distance training for open water swimming.

I joined East Dorset Open Water Swimming Club, Shore Road in 2015 and have just been appointed honorary treasurer.

My goal for 2016 is to complete the 5k Swimathon in March (18–19) at Ferndown Leisure Centre, 3.8k Seahorse in July and do the Pier-to-Pier in a faster time.

Bournemouth University (BU) third year students are making ‘twiddle mitts’ for patients living with dementia at The Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (RBCH), but as the twiddle mitts are in constant demand they want natty knitters to pick up their needles and help knit more.

Twiddle mitts are knitted mittens or hand warmers with beads, buttons and objects sewn on to them.

The mitts are becoming popular gifts for those living with dementia, as having something to twiddle helps to calm agitation and restlessness – both common symptoms of the condition.

Twiddle mitts can be dropped off at BU’s

Lansdowne Campus, placed in a designated box in Royal Bournemouth Hospital’s Atrium or posted through the letterbox of Bournemouth Hospital’s Charity office.

To get a pattern, please email communications@rbch.nhs.uk

To help you become inspired, Ferndown Leisure Centre is offering a fantastic threemonth fitness membership for only £99, or swim membership for only £60 through the month of March. To find out more about the three-month membership offer call Ferndown Leisure Centre on 01202 877468 email: enquiries@ferndownleisurecentre.co.uk or visit www.ferndownleisurecentre.co.uk.

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

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DISCOVER

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VIEWPOINT March 2016

RINGWOOD NEWS

OFFICIALLY

The Place to be

Wheelie good time

L-R Headteacher Christina Edwards, Cllrs Steve Rippon-Swaine and Roy Perry, head boy and girl Sam Whittington and Jade Wardle

More than 40 guests and young people gathered at The Place in Ringwood as the leader of Hampshire County Council, Councillor Roy Perry official opened The Place.

The project which cost £540,000 received a great boost when Councillor Perry arranged for a contribution of £400,000 from Hampshire County Council.

The Place has been built to be the focal point for all youth activities in the town and will help provide resources, information, training and advice to young people and their families.

Ringwood School students also raised £5,000 toward The Place and won a competition for a 54” plasma TV that they also donated to the centre. Councillor Perry said: “I have been very impressed by the commitment of young people in the town and I hope this is something that can be copied elsewhere.”

This was supported by County Councillor Steve Rippon-Swaine who agreed that it is a great model for the way that local authorities and groups can work together for a common purpose.

Amongst resources available in the new facility are Wifi, Xbox, Slush Puppy machine, double pizza oven, espresso machine and panini grills. Some basic cooking courses are held most weeks in the building and other courses to engage with young people and increase life skills will be made available in the coming months. The facility can be hired by youth groups and those working with young people.

More details about the facility can be found on Ringwood Town Council website and a programme of activities will be available shortly.

“Worth the wait” – that is the view of young people after poor weather delayed the opening of Ringwood’s new skatepark by a few weeks Mayor of Ringwood Councillor Michael Thierry said, “It’s amazing to see so many young people are using the site and it’s incredible the skill they show on bikes, boards and blades.”

The £150,000 skatepark was built on the site of the old metal skate ramps in

Carvers Playing Field and will have an official opening later on this year as part of a larger skate fest planned for young people. Young people of the town raised over £3,000 towards this park and are recruiting a maintenance crew to keep it clear for users and demonstrate their commitment to the project.

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

| 15

RINGWOOD NEWS

Vending machine RAF Dakota to with the feel-good factor salute Armed

Vending machines offering healthier snacks and local products, which donate to charity and use recycled materials, have been installed in New Forest District Council’s Health and Leisure Centres The latest snack area to be improved, at Ringwood Health and Leisure Centre, was officially opened by Cllr James Binns, Portfolio Holder for New Forest District Council and is called the Honest Café.

The innovative vending

machines are assembled by hand with the wood surrounding the equipment taken from recycled pallets, sanded, and then carefully joined together.

The Honest Café serves fair-trade coffees and tea made using fat free milk.

There are no high sugar drinks or snacks, and 5p from every drink sold goes to the charity EdUKaid, a UK based charity aimed at helping primary and secondary aged children attend school.

Forces Day

Organisers of Ringwood Armed Forces Day are flying high after learning that part of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will be helping mark the event.

The RAF events team has agreed that a historic Dakota from the memorial flight will perform a flypast in June. It will circle the showground at Carvers Playing Field while the ‘load master’ waves at crowds from the open door. The Dakota is one of the world’s most famous military transport aircraft and played a crucial part in the final Allied victory of World War Two. Chairman of Ringwood Events Committee Steve Nash said: “This is great news and will help us establish the event in the town’s calendar in addition to bringing more people into the town.”

This will be the third year for the Armed Forces Day event in Ringwood, which has grown significantly each time and provides

free activities for service personnel and members of the community.

There will be a change of venue this year following works on the old site and it will now take place at Carvers Playing Field, Southampton Road, on Saturday 25 June from 10am to 4pm with a large range of activities, including military vehicles, fair rides, military stands, charity stalls, live music, re-enactors and food stalls.

Local organisations and exhibitors can book stalls at the event to promote themselves and serving military personnel will be provided with free refreshments on production of their ID cards.

For more information ring Sam on 07973 863203 or visit Facebook Ringwood Events Committee.

Aquamarine Too wet for Wessex - March birthstone

By David at Fields Jewellers, Ringwood Aquamarine is the birthstone for March.

As the name implies, it is the colour of seawater well it might have been to the ancient Romans looking at the Mediterranean Sea! The colour is due to the inclusion of trace elements of ferric iron in the chemical make-up. The value of an aquamarine is therefore in its purity and depth of its sea/ sky blue colour.

Aquamarine has an affinity to the planet Mars. It is said to ensure happiness, stimulate the intellect and bestow prophetic powers.

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VIEWPOINT March 2016

Water’s sewer solution

Wessex Water has now confirmed that they will not be returning to Bickerley Common until at least the end of May. The high river and groundwater levels, are preventing them from continuing the work to install large diameter storage pipes across Bickerley Common, between the access road to Old Mill Flats and the pumping station.

The company is also increasing the size of the sewers in Kingsbury’s Lane.

Work started in September and was due to be completed early this month.

The scheme is the result of Ringwood Town Council calling on Wessex Water to find a solution after heavy rainfall in 2013 led to the sewer being overwhelmed and sewage being discharged into Kingsbury’s Lane.

The current work is phase one of a multi-million pound improvement scheme to alleviate flooding and improve the hydraulics and the capacity of the sewage treatment works.

The Armed Forces Day event on 25 June, usually held on The Bickerley, will be moved to Carvers Recreation Ground this year, and talks are ongoing with Ringwood Carnival about its event in September.

- advertising feature -

RINGWOOD NEWS

TO ADVERTISE IN VIEWPOINT Call 01202 816140 or 870270

Easter family fun day at The Furlong, Ringwood Why not head down to the free Easter Family Fun Day at The Furlong shopping centre on Friday 25 March from 10am-4pm? Enjoy a chance to meet some new chicks and learn about the hatching process from Charlie’s Chickens and have your picture taken with some very friendly miniature donkeys. You can enjoy a

leisurely shop while the kids are entertained with art and craft activities from Waldorf School. With free face painting from 10am – 2pm you can really get egg-cited for the weekend ahead.

The event is free but any donations received will be given to The Furlong’s nominated charity, Cancer Research UK.

There is also free parking for two hours for all customers in The Furlong car park, just off the A31. Follow the signs to the free Furlong car park.

For more details visit thefurlong.co.uk Catch up with the latest Furlong news and products on Facebook & Twitter

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

| 17

RINGWOOD NEWS

- advertising feature -

THE

American diner in the heart of Ringwood

Come and join us at The Diner and Ice Cream Parlour in Star Lane, Ringwood.

We have locally made Crow Farm beef burgers - your local award winning beef farmers.

Daily specials include spaghetti and meatballs with home made traditional Italian sauces. Try the Pasta Arrabiata or the baguettes - freshly baked every morning or just come say hello and enjoy a Segofredo coffee.

What about the ice cream? Well we have trufito, a chocolate ice cream lover’s delight, banana splits, waffles and Joe Delucci premium gelato... and more!

Take the kids out for a treat and enjoy our 50s Diner setting... there’s something for everyone!

You’ll find us in Star Lane - just off The Furlong.

Don’t Be Slow Daddy-O!

RINGWOOD’S

NT A I G STREET PARTY

O

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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VIEWPOINT March 2016

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.

Marathon effort in memory of ‘amazing man’

J

ames Gregory had a passion for life. Even He was admitted to Salisbury Hospital when he suffered a spinal injury, which where Anna was a student nurse. He was then left him paralysed from the chest down, transferred to the Spinal Unit at Odstock hospital for wheelchair bound and dependent on full time rehabilitation and she became his carer for his first carers, he never let his disability get in the way of weekend leave home. his love of the outdoors and his sense of adventure.

Anna said: “We hit it off, he proposed three Sadly, with his level of paralysis, he was months later and we were married the following prone to chest infections and he died in 2011 after year.” developing bronchial pneumonia.

Following IVF treatment, Harriet and Oscar were Now his wife Anna is running in born in January 2010. “...Harriet the 36th Virgin London Marathon on “I now feel that life is too short and 24 April in his memory while raising and Oscar are Harriet and Oscar are sadly without a money for Dorset’s disability charity, but I want them to know what an sadly without daddy Diverse Abilities. amazing man he was and running the a daddy but I Anna, 39, from Wimborne St Giles London Marathon to help more people explained that James came home after like James means the want them to 13 months in hospital. She said: “It know what an world to me.” was very difficult to start with as it was Diverse Abilities amazing man is offered a place in hard to get the correct care package and equipment to enable him to live as the London marathon he was...” independently as possible. But we were every five years, which lucky to receive funding, which included full time Anna as a regular runner, with a care, the right kit and wheelchairs. number of 10k races and two half “If he hadn’t had the right care and equipment, marathons under her belt, was his life would have been very different. For this delighted to fill. reason I am running the London Marathon to raise Anna had a fundraising target money for Diverse Abilities, a fantastic local charity of £1,000, which she has already that enables children and adults with disabilities to reached through donations from live life to the full, as they wish, just like James did.” friends and family and by asking James was a doctor in the navy, serving with for sponsorship rather than Christmas presents. the Royal Marine Commando Unit, when was But she is still fund-raising to boost her donation involved in a helicopter accident in Northern Ireland to Diverse Abilites while continuing to train for the 26.2-mile challenge. in 2002.

New Forest’s vital role in First World War

Easter fun in Verwood Verwood Heathland Heritage Centre is holding activities especially for children over the Easter period.

Youngsters are invited to follow the Easter trail in the museum and find how many chicks are hiding in the new display of Verwood shops. Entry is free and there’s a certificate for everyone taking part. And when they’ve found the chicks, children can enter an Easter colouring competition.

The centre is just off Ferrett Green and the activities are running from 21-26 March and 28 March between 9.30am12noon.

Lyndhurst Camp c 1914. Credit Angela Trend

L

ittle survives today of the industries, camps, hospitals and training areas which took over the Forest during the Great War of 1914 to 1918 and the impact it had on local residents.

Working with local history groups including Fordingbridge First World War Centenary Committee, archaeologists at the New Forest National Park Authority have gathered photos, documents and personal accounts of how the Forest was transformed as it played a vital role in the war effort.

They are available to view at a New Forest Remembers WWI exhibition at the New Forest Centre, Lyndhurst, which runs until 1 May and online at www.newforestheritage.org.

The exhibition panels will then tour other New Forest venues during 2016.

WWI project officer Gareth Owen said: “With the start of World War I in 1914, thousands of British troops were recalled

Anna is holding an Easter egg hunt and coffee morning.

If you’d like to sponsor Anna please visit https://www. justgiving.com/Anna-Gregory4/ Runners who have their own place have been invitied to run for Diverse Abilities and raise funds to support children and adults with disabilities in Dorset. For further information call 01202 718266 or visit www.diverseabilities.org.uk/events

from across the Empire and locations were needed to accommodate them across the south coast near to the ports of Portsmouth and Southampton, so many ended up in the Forest.

“There are stories of columns of marching soldiers heading off from camps in Lyndhurst to Southampton docks where they boarded ships to go off to war; of over 21,000 troops from India and New Zealand convalescing in make-shift hospitals at Brockenhurst; the Royal Flying Corps stationed at East Boldre; and even a training school for dogs who carried vital messages in battle.”

WWI and WWII stories and other findings are available via the growing online interactive archive www.newforestheritage.org. People can register online to share their findings and contribute to telling the Forest’s story during World War I or are free to browse the wealth of information already uploaded.

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

| 19

INSIGHT INTO PANCREATIC CANCER

Rear of the building

Rescue the Ringwood Regal A campaign has been launched to rescue the historic Ringwood Regal building which has become an eye-sore in the market place.

The building started life as the prestigeous Corn Exchange and Town Hall building, built by Mr John Morant and opened in 1868.

Since then it has had numerous owners and many uses, ranging from cinema/theatre to shopping arcade, bingo hall, restaurant, several nightclubs and even a squash club.

The building has been disused since 2002 and has deteriorated over the years. It has survived more than one attempt to demolish it but has recently come under threat once again by developers. Phase 2 development plans for the nearby Furlong shopping centre include a promise to restore the façade of the town hall building but includes demolishing most of the cinema/theatre.

‘The Ringwood Regal’ campaign aims to rescue the whole building and turn it into a multi-function facility. John Challenor,

one of the founders of the newly formed action group, said: “We aim to provide a theatre with stage and fixed auditorium seating, not only for live entertainment but also equipped with modern digital projection and surround-sound system to show films and allow live broadcasts of prestigious events.

On another level it is planned to include an exhibition hall with conference facilities and meeting rooms. There will also be a restaurant and bar.” The Art Deco style theatre has up to 500 fixed auditorium seats, Fellow founder Mike Tuck said: “We have formed a committee made up of selected volunteers and have secured some initial funding but the longer term aim is to set up a charity to enable the serious fundraising to begin.”

The group is also trying to track down photographs of the interior when it was a cinema, along with any other memorabilia.

Go to www.ringwood-regal.co.uk for more details or call Mike on 01425 475129.

The Mousetrap, Poole Lighthouse Review by Liz Turner

Louise Jameson

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VIEWPOINT March 2016

I’m now proud to be a member of a very exclusive club – even though there must be many hundreds and thousands of other members. I know ‘who did it’ in The Mousetrap.

The 60th anniversary touring production of legendary crime writer Agatha Christie’s long running play, arrived at Poole Lighthouse on Monday 1 March, to reveal its secrets to fresh audiences.

It’s a perfect Agatha Christie mystery, a country guesthouse cut off by the snow with a murderer on the loose. All the guests could be the villain or even become the next victim. Every twist and turn makes you suspect a different character could be the murderer until a fresh clue into the guests’ secret pasts turns your attention to somebody else. With mounting suspense and an intricate plot, this thriller has it all. And when the murderer was revealed there was an audible gasp from the audience.

The big name in this production is Louise Jameson, as Mrs Boyle, who becomes a victim at the end of the first act. However the rest of the cast is so strong that they all deserved star billing.

And as is the tradition at the end of the play, the audience was urged to keep the secret of who did it ‘locked in your heart’.

The play premiered in 1952 and is celebrating the 64th year in London. This was local people’s chance to become part of ‘The Mousetrap’ phenomenon. And I was just one of many who took the opportunity during the week long run at Lighthouse.

Verwood afternoon TG members learned about the Pancreatic Cancer Charity from David Snelling at a recent meeting. The organisation helps support individuals, and their families, who have been diagnosed with the UK’s fifth deadliest cancer.

Through fundraising and donations the charity aims to provide expenses for treatment, travel and possible medication and to make grants available for affected families to take respite breaks.

Good golly Miss Dolly A rare German doll is to go under the hammer.

It was made by well-known manufacturer Kammer & Reinhardt in Germany.

Lawrences specialist, Simon Jones said: “It has the unusual feature of a closed mouth, something which is uncommon in porcelain head dolls,” He added: “This doll is known as ‘Mein Liebling’ (my darling). It dates from the early years of the 20th century and stands 18 inches (46cm) high. It is in remarkably good condition for its age and rare dolls still command a great amount of interest in auction. There are many collectors for the rarer models such as this.”

It will be sold in Lawrences May Collectors and Sporting Auction and is expected to make £500£800. Contact Simon Jones on 01460 73041 for more details.

DISCOVER

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

| 21

in with pets

Baz needs a forever home If only Baz could talk, he would tell you he’s an eightyear-old terrier who’s been looking for a forever home for a while.

He’s had a lot of changes in his life and is with Waggy Tail’s fosterers at the moment. A very intelligent boy, he has a nice nature and will happily live with another dog. Baz likes company, loves humans and would ideally like to live with a family who enjoy going for walks and can give him plenty of time and patience.

For more information on Baz or any of the other animals at Waggy Tails Rescue, a local animal rescue charity, call 01202 875000, e-mail: admin@waggytails.org.uk or visit www.waggytails.org.uk

Springtime lambing

- a busy time!

With spring officially upon us we start to see the signs of new life: flowers, wildlife and livestock including calves and plenty of lambs skipping about in the fields.

With this in mind our attention in animal health is always drawn to the enquiries and queries that come our way. With encouragement from celebrity chefs in recent years it has become apparent that anyone with a large garden or small piece of land seems to want to try their hand at the ‘good life’. This may be rearing a few chickens for eggs to having a couple of pigs, sheep or goats for the freezer. After all what could be better than eating something you have produced yourself?

The main problem we find at this time of year is people taking on ‘orphan lambs’. So called orphans not necessarily because their mother has died but where the mother (ewe) may not have enough milk, or the lamb is one of a triplet. (Ewes will generally only rear 2 lambs).

These orphans are then taken and reared by hand on formula type milk, this is time consuming to many farmers and often they look to sell the orphans off.

We would never want to discourage this, but it is important to remember that with food chain animals there are still a number legal requirements you have to abide by.

You must be registered with DEFRA and get a CPHH registration number. You must also notify the local Animal

Health and Plant Agency (AHPA).

Lambs under 7 days old can only travel if they have a healed navel, be on suitable bedding and travel for no more than 100km (62m) they must also travel in a suitable livestock vehicle, container or crate capable of being cleaned and disinfected.

Lambs should be ear tagged correctly and be accompanied by a sheep licence, on which all the details of the move and ear tag number are recorded.

You must keep and official movement and Medicine register for any animals you keep.

As well as the above legal requirements you are also bound by welfare legislation, it is of the utmost importance that animals receive the appropriate care, feed and environment. Research your species before you consider the challenges of rearing livestock.

A couple of our Animal Health Officers will themselves also be very busy with lambing as usual.

If you wish to have any more information on this subject please call: 01305 224475, or visit www. dorsetforyou.com and follow the links to Trading Standards, Animal Health pages.

Karen Wood, Animal Health Officer

Free microchipping at Good Friday dog show Dogs of all shapes and sizes are invited to King George V playing fields in Ferndown on Good Friday 25 March From 1pm to 4pm there will be a community event aimed at dog lovers with stalls, an opportunity to ‘Ask the Vet’ and free dog chipping carried out by East Dorset District Council officers.

There will also be a dog show with awards including most handsome dog, prettiest bitch, best veteran over 10 years, waggiest tail and dog the judge would most like to take home.

If you would like a stall at the event, or for any further information, contact Rachel Taylor at rtaylor@ christchurchandeastdorset.gov. uk or call 07785 451834.

Anyone wanting to enter their dog in the show can register on the day and pay £1 with all proceeds going to the Staffie and Stray Rescue Centre.

What is a microchip?

It’s a small chip, the size of a rice grain, inserted between a dog’s shoulder blades. The procedure is no more painful than that experienced when having a standard vaccination. The chip is coated in the same material used in human pacemakers, so won’t be rejected by the dog’s body. In theory, it fuses to the dog’s body tissue, meaning it should not move around. The microchip is coded with the dog owners’ details.

Microchipping is compulsory from 6 April and is a step towards reuniting a dog with its owner if it gets lost. Owners will also be required to keep the microchip data up-to-date - they often forget to update the records when necessary.

The National Dog Warden Association says 40% of the dogs they pick up that are chipped have got incomplete or inaccurate data, meaning they can’t be returned. So don’t just get your dog chipped, remember to update your records too, for instance, if you move home.

Simon Hoare MP calls for ban on wild animals in circuses Simon Hoare, Member of Parliament for North Dorset, has co-sponsored a Private Members’ Bill that seeks to prohibit the use of wild animals in circuses.

As the legislation currently stands there is no ban on the use of performing wild animals in circuses, although a tough licensing scheme was developed and announced in 2012 ensuring circus owners met strict welfare requirements.

However new legislation has been brought before Parliament again to take a big step in banning the use of wild animals in circuses altogether.

Speaking in support of Will Quince MP’s Private Members’ Bill, Simon Hoare MP said: “This is an important proposal. Banning performing wild animals in circuses is a logical and fair next step. I wholeheartedly believe in this Bill and look forward to supporting its progress through Parliament.”

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VIEWPOINT March 2016

Photos to admire Murder mystery characters

Full house for murder mystery

Here are the top two photographs taken by members of the Verwood Photography Group for you to enjoy.

The club runs an active programme and holds a monthly competition of local photography.

January winners were: 1st ‘Winter sea’

by Kevin Edge, 2nd ‘Winter mouse at Moors Valley’ by Heather Watts, 3rd ‘Tree in the mist’ by James Hunt and 4th ‘Misty Ringwood forest’ by Pam Smith.

If you would like to join the group, visit its Facebook page.

A ‘Murder Mystery’ evening organised by Fordingbridge Twinning Association was not only a great success, but was also sold out.

The characters were Sarah Newman as Gemma Overtan; Trevor Tague as the Rev iPrayer; Jo Bolingbroke as glamour model Nikki Nice; Derek Ayling as a thinly disguised Stevie Scowl (a nasty rude piece of work); Bridget as Krystal, a style advisor; Keith Bennett as Terry Johns, a recently retired professional footballer; Annie Mitchell as Jenni Johns, Terry’s second wife, and Mark Newman as Bryan Biggs, a man with many fingers in many pies.

The murder mystery played through the whole evening, with episodes between each course, until the perpetrator of the dastardly deed was eventually un-masked.

More twinning events

The next event being organised by the Fordingbridge Twinning Association is the Youth Competition 2016. With the migrant crisis across Europe everincreasing, and with no satisfactory or clear solution in sight, young local creative people are invited to consider the individual people involved and offer them advice, by way of messages of hope, maybe by offering poems, stories of friendship, or a painting or a drawing of hope.

Other events being planned include a petanque/boules evening, the AGM (including cheese and wine) on 28 April, visits to Sontra in Germany and Vimoutiers in Normandy, France, a stand at the Fordingbridge Festival, in July, and a Jazz on an Autumn’s evening on Saturday 22 October.

For further details of all these occasions, and in particular the youth competition, do contact either Helen Tague on 01425 655462, or Derek or Alison Ayling on 01425 650770, or by email on: Hippotrain@btinternet.com Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

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REGULAR FRIDAY MARKET

And this is what local people had to say about this exciting venture that will enhance the Ferndown cosmos

On Friday 1 April, Southern Market Traders (SMT) will be putting up their green and white gazebos in Penny’s Walk, Ferndown for the very first time, to house a brand new shopping experience for you in the town

“A regular market in the town is what residents, shops and businesses have been asking for, and this will help improve the footfall in the town. It’s a positive step forward.”

COMES TO FERNDOWN

“

Mayor of Ferndown, Cllr Julie Robinson

“This is a major step forward in creating a vibrant, interesting commercial town centre.”

Councillor Steve Lugg, Chairman of East Dorset District Council

“The Chamber has been working on this project with the aim of enhancing the town’s profile and attracting visitors from other areas as well as improving the shopping experience for its residents.”

James Edgar, President of Ferndown Chamber of Commerce

Local councillors and the members of the Chamber of Commerce have asked SMT to deliver a street market filled with the nicest characters and the highest quality products.

They have seen SMT’s markets in towns like Christchurch, Winchester and Alton and want the same vibrant atmosphere to be brought to Ferndown every Friday.

This venture is all about community, offering local traders and some of the independent shopkeepers from the High Street the opportunity to bring their wares to the street experience, to boost their businesses.

The market will also give the local customers and people from the surrounding towns and villages a reason to come into town for a great new place to shop, meet old friends and make new ones.

There will be so much to see and a great selection to choose from.

Delicatessen

There will be the finest delicatessen products with a full range of meats and cheeses, both local, international and rare breed.

Fruit and veg, plants and flowers

There will be produce in abundance with the freshest fruit, vegetables, plants and flowers.

Fashion

Fashion for ladies, gentlemen and children with high quality accessories like handbags and scarves.

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VIEWPOINT March 2016

Photos courtesy of SMT Management Consultants Ltd taken at other market locations. For illustrative purposes only.

“We need more things like this to get some life back into Ferndown. A lot of Ferndown residents would love to be able to stay in Ferndown, without getting on a bus to undertake shopping in the next town.”

Tom Scrase, resident

Gifts, arts and crafts

For good measure there will be a classy smattering of gifts, crafts and artwork to delight you and provide choice for those special occasions.

Take a break

It won’t be necessary for SMT to bring hot food and drink to the market as there are already refreshments on offer in the Raffles Coffee House in the Barrington Theatre with all manner of hearty meals, warming snacks, and great beverages on offer.

A great day out

So – you can make a great day of it – meet friends, browse the market, enjoy lunch, pick up a bargain or two and stock up your larder with the freshest, tastiest produce on offer.

Colourful characters

There will be some great characters for you to meet and all the market traders are looking forward to seeing you there on Friday 1 April.

Bring your product to the street trading experience If you have any questions or would like to bring your product to the street trading experience and join in the fun, please call SMT on 07515 797878.

“It is an extremely good movement forward for the town.”

Warren Brown, resident

“It’s going to be a good thing. I will visit the market in Ferndown.”

Patricia Badger, Northbourne resident for 59 years

“I’m looking forward to a weekly market.

Anything that brings people to the town will help local shops.”

Kathy Johnson, resident

“A weekly market will be lovely. I would like to see plants, bread and cheese. We had a market in Sherborne, which we enjoyed.”

Ferndown resident who moved to Ferndown from Sherborne two months ago and wished to remain anonymous

“One of the main points that came out of a recent public and local retailers survey* was the need for a town market. It’s great that this now looks like it’s going to happen. Let’s hope it gets public support.”

Tony Brown, Treasurer of Ferndown Chamber of Commerce

*Spot Checkers survey: 73% of businesses interviewed said they would like to see a market in Ferndown to encourage footfall.

Verwood Probus Club photographed at Crane Valley by Janine Pulford (Roy Slade is pictured fifth from the left in the front row)

Not to be missed! Magazine editor entertains LIVE: FERNDOWN Live: Ferndown’s reputation is spreading and this year’s acts are preparing for the big sing-off.

Formerly the Voice of Ferndown, the final will be held on 8 April at the Barrington Theatre and in the audience will be guest of honour, Christchurch MP Chris Chope OBE. Local artists have been auditioning at monthly Sunday Clubs in the bar at the Barrington, organised by Steve Lugg, in association with the Ferndown Community Association.

Your MC will be Chris “Chrissyferkin” Daines, and local legend, piano man Matt Black will be leading the judges’ panel.

The audience also get involved by voting for their favourite act.

Organiser Steve Lugg said, “It is exciting seeing so much local talent performing, and I’m proud to be involved. You can also see many of the acts at the Barrington’s beer and music festival on Mayday, 12–12.”

Prize sponsors include Hangover Hill Studio in Poole and Forest FM, as well as the Ferndown Community Association cash prize for the audience favourite.

2016 finalists include local stars Amy Williams, Del Satterthwaite, Lucy Jarvis, DFYNE, Tanya Miller, Jenny Osborne, Amanda Bond & Rachel Wright, Power Thief, Jenny Oag, Melissa Barton, Teen Ambition, Karl Vogts and Josh Baldwin. Joining them will be the winners and runners up from March’s Sunday Club with Amie Knight and Nicole McNally ‘in the running’.

Full details can be found in the latest Barrington Magazine available from the theatre and online at www.mags4dorset. co.uk.

Tickets are selling fast, £5 each from the Barrington box office or website. Limited supply, so don’t delay.

New scheme for older people Verwood & Three Legged Cross Helpful Neighbours and Friends was launched on 8 March. It offers the elderly of Verwood and Three Legged Cross help to get small or one-off jobs done when they do not have support from relatives or friends. It also provides a befriending service to those who may have become isolated or lonely.

Call 01202 834034 anytime and a volunteer will visit between the hours of 9am-5pm Monday-Friday to carry out jobs such as changing a light bulb, reprogramming a TV, moving furniture, posting or reading a letter.

More volunteers are needed, so if you are interested call Nikki 07921 195772 during working hours or email helpfulneighboursandfriends@gmail.com

26 |

VIEWPOINT March 2016

F

ollowing lunch at Crane Valley Golf Club, Verwood Probus members were entertained by editor, author and publisher, Janine Pulford.

She explained how she became a magazine publisher and how the company she co-founded, known as MAGS4DORSET, had grown.

The company was formed after she was made redundant as editor of Viewpoint Magazine in 2003 when the publisher went out of business. “It was a job I loved and I didn’t want to give it up. The redundancy pushed me into starting my own business. I would never have done it otherwise,” she said.

She and a business partner introduced a new community magazine, Town & Village Times, (now 4Dorset), into Dorset and Hampshire. A few months later Janine purchased the title Viewpoint for £1 from the liquidators.

At that time, Roy Slade was appointed deputy editor and provided the Verwood editorial for Viewpoint when it was reintroduced alongside Town & Village.

Having experienced a complete downturn in the market when the business struggled to survive, Janine said MAGS4DORSET is now a successful family-run company registered as Pulford Publicity Ltd. Two popular community magazines are published every month - 4Dorset and Viewpoint - as well as many other publications, promotional material and websites.

She said the A4 folder of handwritten or typed contributions that filled Viewpoint when she first became editor in 1998, had now become thousands of emails that filled two magazines a month and kept a regular newsfeed on the company’s website and social media sites.

Siblings on the run for the NSPCC Mother of three Kerry Hesketh from Bournemouth, and her older brother Craig Kennedy, are running together in the London Marathon on 24 April.

They are aiming to raise £5,000 between them for the NSPCC. Kerry, aged 38, has recently become a foster parent and is determined to make a difference to the lives of children who need support, upholding the NSPCC’s slogan that ‘Every childhood is worth fighting for’.

She is no stranger to marathons having competed in the Comrades Marathon in South Africa. Arguably the greatest ultra marathon in the world it covers 89 km, approximately 56 miles, and Kerry finished in 11 hours and 59

minutes, not only that, she took part in it twice when she was aged 30 and 31.

Will the London Marathon seem like a walk in the park by comparison?

“No,” says Kerry. “Mentally, I know I can do it, but it is still challenging and I really want to absorb the sights of London when I take part.”

Does she have any tips to would-be marathon runners? “Stick to your training schedules and eat healthy food,” she advises.

To help her and Craig reach their £5,000 target for the NSPCC, Kerry is appealing to 100 businesses to put up £50 each in sponsorship. They have already raised £600. To sponsor, visit www.justgiving.com/ everychildhoodisworthfightingfor Facebook: www.facebook.com/ everychildhoodisworthfightingfor

Pudsey is coming to Verwood

disadvantaged children in the UK and Warren will also perform a song he has written called ‘When You Dream of Love’. Comedy pianist Matt Black is also scheduled to appear and there will be a tribute to Sir Terry Wogan just before the close of the show.

Local clubs and schools are invited to get involved. Verwood Flower Club members will produce the floral display along the width of the stage in the same way they did for the Variety Remembrance held at the Hub in 2014. The club is also designing a Pudsey Bear floral decoration to go centre stage. This will be auctioned on the evening and sealed bids will be taken prior to the auction.

It is hoped that the event will help raise the millions that BBC’s Children in Need is so famous for achieving year-on-year, which will go towards giving every child a childhood which is safe, happy and secure and allows them the chance to reach their potential. This enormously successful annual appeal has so far raised over £740 million.

BBC’s Children in Need’s mascot will be coming to the Verwood Hub on 18 November.

Pudsey Bear along with another famous VIP - actor and producer Michael Medwin OBE - will be attending a Variety Performance in aid of Children in Need to be dedicated to the late Sir Terry Wogan.

The organiser of the event, Warren Brown, explained that preparations for the fundraiser were underway when Sir Terry died. Warren said, “We decided to dedicate the show to him in recognition of his contribution to Children in Need.”

Taking place at the Merryfield Theatre, the Variety Show will bring a whole lot of local stars together. The full programme will include musicians, gymnasts, singing and dancing whilst raising much-needed funds for

DISCOVER

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

| 27

Rachel Ann

Q&A Rachel Ann talks to Janine Pulford Q. How does it feel to be on Team Ricky?

A. Amazing. He’s such a good coach and he knows so much about stage presence and performance.

Q. Who encouraged you to enter The Voice?

A. My singing coach Lucy Ridley-Martin from Absolute Music in Bournemouth. She is one of the main reasons why I am where I am today.

Q. What made you choose to sing ‘In For the Kill’ at the Blind Auditions?

A. I wanted to do something different, something I could change up.

BOURNEMOUTH

teen star

WOWS

28 |

VIEWPOINT March 2016

Rachel Ann is no stranger to success. She beat 9,000 other music acts to win the final of the TeenStar competition held in front of a packed audience at the NEC in Birmingham in 2015.

For such a rising star, BBC One’s The Voice was the obvious next step. During the show’s search for the UK’s vocal talent there are Blind Auditions, Battles and Knockouts before the Live Shows when the remaining artists go against each other.

This is where the audience get their first chance to vote and have their say. Now in its fifth season, the coaches on The Voice are Paloma Faith, Boy George, will.i.am and Ricky Wilson.

Rachel Ann is now through to the Knockouts after going headto-head in the Battles with Aine Carroll (also 16).

The judges

Q. How much further can you push your voice?

A. I can do any song, as long as I can change it around. The most scary thing for me is not having creative freedom.

Q. Where do you see yourself in five years?

A. Singing. In the music industry. That’s all I want to do.

A self-professed hippy, barefooted Rachel Ann Stroud took to the Blind Auditions stage of BBC One’s hit show, The Voice, on 20 February and gave a stunning interpretation of La Roux’s ‘In For the Kill’ Watched on primetime TV and to the audience’s delight, coach Ricky Wilson turned in his chair within seconds and just when he thought he wouldn’t have to pitch for Rachel Ann, will.i.am pressed his button and did that little trick of sneaking round on the final note.

Former Bourne Academy pupil and one of the youngest performers on The Voice, 16-yearold Rachel Ann was faced with a huge decision as the two coaches pitched for her allegiance.

“I love both of them,” she told MAGS4DORSET. But when it came down to the decision, Ricky’s pitch: “I didn’t think that there was that much more to hear in life and you just provided it,” was the deal clincher.

“I wanted Ricky because of what he said. No one ever said anything that nice to me,” said Rachel Ann. The Kaiser Chiefs frontman was visibly overjoyed when she picked Team Ricky.

MAGS4DORSET held an exclusive interview with Rachel after the Blind Auditions.

She was buzzing with her success and even more excited by the amount of people who are supporting her on social media.

Her mother Sue told us, “She’s had so many wonderful comments. It’s fantastic and a bit overwhelming. We’re very proud of her.”

Q. What was it like singing live to The Voice coaches for the first time?

A. I was really nervous because the coaches were in front of me. It was nerve wracking and scary. When Ricky turned round it made me feel more comfortable.

Q. When did you start being trained to sing?

A. When I was about 10 years old. But there has always been music in our house. I’ve always sung and always been encouraged by the family.

Q. You also play keyboards, anything else?

A. I play drums.

Q. Does it help to go barefoot when you sing?

A. Yes. It helps me to walk around and makes me feel more grounded in the moment.

Q. How have you found the other contestants?

A. They’re all such lovely people. I can’t wait to perform again.

Alan Barclay, managing director and founder of Absolute Music, recently offered Rachel Ann an apprenticeship with the music centre and said, “We and the team have been amazed with Rachel Ann’s initial success and we hope to now support her in her bid to win for Dorset. Her voice is stunning and we are not at all surprised that Rachel Ann wowed the coaches within seconds in the blind auditions.”

Q. Were you worried about the Battles?

A. It was scary being up against someone.

I wanted to get through and fought for it! I know who I am, I found myself as a person and a musician at a young age.

Q. What worried you most?

A. I have low confidence when I sing sometimes, and I was worried about singing without my piano. I am used to being behind it.

Q. Is there anything you want to say to your fans?

A. I’d love to say thank you. Everyone has been so lovely since the show. I couldn’t have asked for anything better.

Q. What advice would you give to anyone of your age wanting to audition for The Voice?

A. Go for it. You won’t regret it. It doesn’t matter about the outcome. It’s such an amazing experience. It’s the best thing I’ve ever done.

Rachel Ann was delightful to interview.

One of eight children, she has five sisters and two brothers and can often be seen barefoot busking in Bournemouth and Poole with her piano keyboard. She is getting used to being asked for selfies with her fans.

MAGS4DORSET is sure that readers will want to wish this talented teen the very best of luck in the Knockouts.

Council Matters by Cllr Simon Gibson

Fabric manufacturers of Fordingbridge By

Julian Hewitt Fordingbridge Museum

R Cllr Simon Gibson

Is standing still an option?

Last month, in my first column for Viewpoint, I highlighted the major challenges facing all local councils. Without repeating myself, these will be the key themes that underpin all decision-making for the foreseeable future; how do you keep services running whilst balancing the books?

East Dorset District Council has received substantially less money from central government than in previous years. Like other areas of public spending, local government must play its part in dealing with the national financial challenges. However, this does put pressure on local budgets.

For me, it is vitally important that public services are maintained wherever possible, these services are what the public rightly expect their council tax to be spent on and often provide invaluable lifelines for those who use them. Therefore, in the face of reduced funding from central government, councils are faced with trying to increase their income from other sources and look at ways to reduce costs. There is some good news ahead with the retention of local business rates, but in reality the best way to set a balanced budget is to find savings. These can come in two forms, through new ways of working or from less spending on public services.

East Dorset District Council has already saved substantial amounts of money through our partnership with Christchurch Borough Council. While no partnership is ever perfect, I do believe that the benefits have far outweighed the negatives and have allowed our medium term finances to stay healthy.

However, in order to protect services, much more will have to be done.

We have to look at working with other councils and look at our own costs. Our Furzehill office is currently underused, inaccessible and costs thousands to run each month. I support the decision to review where we base the council as this decision alone could save millions over the next decade.

Savings that will allow us to continue funding local services. To waste money on our own buildings that do not meet the needs of the community, whilst cutting valuable services, would be unacceptable. Such decisions could help us become more available to the public and save money.

There has been much public interest in potential mergers with other local authorities.

A new ‘Super Council’ has been the main focus of this, but in reality was just a number of potential options that were being considered. Personally, I have my reservations about all of the options but it is my belief that standing still and doing nothing will expose our residents to even greater risks. I will talk more about this issue next month.

eaders may not realise that Fordingbridge was once renowned for the manufacture of fabrics.

In 1805 a book called The Beauties of England and Wales said of Fordingbridge, ‘Here is the manufactory of checks and bedticks and a calico printing ground’.

In 1868 the National Gazetteer records that in Fordingbridge, ‘The principal employment of the people is in the preparation of flax, but calico printing and the manufacture of sailcloth are also carried on’.

Ticking is a durable cotton or linen textile that was mainly used to cover mattresses and pillows because the tight weave would not allow feathers through. Calico initially came from Calicut in India but British manufacturers were soon producing their own, cheaper version.

Acts of Parliament in 1700 and 1720 prohibited the import of dyed or printed calicos from India,

China and Persia to protect the domestic textile industry. Messrs Day and Read are recorded as Calico Printers in Fordingbridge in the 1790s.

Initially calico would have been printed by hand, using wooden blocks engraved with the design.

These would be dipped in colour and pressed onto the cloth and the patterns would then be linked up by women and young girls using thin brushes called ‘pencils’. This method became obsolete in 1785 when copper rollers, engraved with the patterns, were used to print the material.

The Parliamentary Gazetteer of 1843 records that ticking and sailcloth were the principle manufactures in Fordingbridge and that in 1840 the flax mill employed 200 people.

This was East Mills which was subject to much damage in the machine breaking riots of 1830.

Samuel Thompson received £1000 from public funds to

Ginger Baker cancels festival appearance Legendary drummer Ginger Baker is to undergo urgent heart surgery and won’t be able to headline the Bournemouth Jazz Festival as planned

G

erry Clarke, Festival Director said, “We are really sorry to lose Ginger Baker from the festival line up and our best wishes go out to him for a successful operation and a speedy recovery.”

Acclaimed American master drummer Gene Calderazzo has stepped in to complete the Jazz Confusion Band.

Bournemouth Jazz Festival takes place on 22-

24 April at various venues throughout the town.

Ticketed events for other headline acts including vocalist Jacqui Dankworth, saxophonist Jean Toussaint, much-loved singer Tina May and rising trumpet star Yazz Ahmed can be booked through The Bournemouth Jazz Festival website www. bournemouthjazzfestival. co.uk or through the BH Live website www.bhlivetickets. co.uk/Online/default.asp

compensate him for the damage done by the rioters and reopened the business in the 1850s making sail cloth, canvas and sacking.

He opened a large mill in Back Street (now West Street) which was later used by the Wilton Carpet Company for special work such as the carpet for the royal train when George VI visited South Africa in 1947.

If you want to make a material difference to life in Fordingbridge why not give a small amount of time to act as a steward in the museum?

Fordingbridge Museum depends entirely on volunteers to keep open and is currently looking for people to greet visitors and help them explore the museum.

Full training will be given and you can choose the amount of time you commit.

For more details contact 01425 655813 and be a part of one of the most stimulating and fascinating attractions in the town.

New Forest Jazz grows Two new members were welcomed to a recent New Forest Jazz Workshop. The next meeting will be at 7.30pm on Wednesday, 23 March at Godshill Village Hall opposite the Fighting Cocks Public House.

For more information call Derek Ayling on 01425 650770 or email hippotrain@btinternet.com

Join Verwood Business

Verwood Business meets once a month at the Monmouth Ash, Manor Road, Verwood BH31 6DT on the third Tuesday of the month at 8pm. All business owners are welcome to come along to network on an informal and relaxed basis.

Half price tickets for locals The Oceanarium in Bournemouth is offering locals living in specific postcode areas the opportunity to visit the popular seafront aquarium for half price until 24 March 2016. Visitors must present proof of their BH, DT, SO or SP postcode (eg driving licence or utility bill) and in return will receive up to four half price admissions. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, membership, Internet or family ticket.

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

| 29

education & classes

Music for the Mind The MYPs and their deputies for 2016

ELECTED!

Grace Van Zyl and Sarah Trott are Dorset’s newly elected Members of the UK Youth Parliament (UKYP). Each polled over 4,000 votes after more than 12,000 young people in the county headed for the ballot boxes. The two deputy MYPs are Archie Rowell and Jake Perkins.

In total 12 young candidates stood in Dorset in an election managed by Dorset County Council. Young people could vote for three candidates - but only one vote could be for a person standing at their school. More than 28,000 votes were cast and four successful candidates took their first steps on the political ladder on 25 February following a ceremony at County Hall.

The UK Youth Parliament is a national organisation that aims to give young people aged between 11 and 18, an opportunity to get involved in democracy and decision making at national and local level.

Dorset results: Grace Van Zyl (4774 votes), Sarah Trott (4107), Archie Rowell (3284), Jake Perkins (2808).

It’s well known that music and singing help stimulate the memory.

St Martin’s Church in West Moors is holding a series of programmes of music and songs from bygone years for those who are suffering or concerned about memory loss or other medical conditions and who would benefit from an hour or so of music for fun. Carers are welcome.

To be held once a month, Music for the Mind starts at 10.30am on Thursday 17 March at St Martin’s Church on the corner of Station Road and Moorlands Road.

There is no charge, but donations will be appreciated. Just turn up.

Session ends at noon.

JTYAF helps FUS students A number of Ferndown Upper School (FUS) students celebrated being awarded John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation (JTYAF) bursaries and scholarships on 8 February.

A panel from the charity reviewed over 60 applications for funding, which will help young people in pursuit of their ambitions. Requests ranged from volunteer work abroad to scuba diving lessons and awards were finally made to assist 40 students with their chosen projects. The presentation ceremony included Linda and Peter Thornton, local mayors and councillors. Afterwards students were able to chat to the local dignitaries and tell them more about what they planned to do with their awards.

Since JTYAF was formed in 2008 in memory of Lt ‘JT’ John Thornton, a Royal Marine and former FUS student who lost his life in southern Afghanistan, over 800 young people have benefitted with awards totalling £310,000.

- advertising feature -

Exciting times at Dumpton School The extension to the Music School and Assembly Hall is now complete, doubling the space available for concerts, plays and recitals at Dumpton School.

This multi-purpose Performing Arts venue includes 8 new practice rooms, a new Music Classroom and Music Technology Centre, an Ensemble Room and a Recital Room, which opens out on to the beautifully paved Arts Courtyard.

With the addition of 12 new pianos, both teachers and pupils are very excited about the new facilities and opportunities available.

An army of music teaching peripatetics come in every week to teach as many as 200 individual lessons and an array of ensembles and orchestras keep the young musicians fully occupied

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VIEWPOINT March 2016

with regular performances organised for fellow pupils and parents to enjoy.

In addition, the school has recently completed the purchase of two acres of adjoining land. Initially this will provide a lovely open field for nature study (and an extension to the crosscountry course) but will then be converted, gradually, to another sports area. Exciting times!

education and classes - advertising feature -

Headmaster Richard Milner-Smith

MOYLES COURT SCHOOL behind all of which is the pressure to succeed and be popular.

Moyles Court were instinctive in having good pastoral care already built into their core business and are well placed to meet this new wave of enlightenment. The Chief Medical Officer’s Report of 2012 stated that the promotion of health by schools helps schools achieve their ‘core business’ of increasing educational attainment and enhancing later life chances.

Headmaster Richard Milner-Smith comments, “We’ve achieved a steady, organic growth over the past few years because we’ve cared before we’ve driven. That care has helped all of our children attain their very best, with many excelling beyond expectation.

Care equals happiness equals inspiration equals results. It’s a simple philosophy that works.”

An extract from the Public Health England 2014 briefing cited that positive achievements help build resilience and how schools were ideally placed to do this across a range of activities – sports, arts and music - as well as academic performance.

Moyles Court School’s embracing of good pastoral care over the years has been matched with the importance put on extracurricular activities and on making the most of its New Forest location and 14 acre site.

The Forest Schools initiative, a full sports and arts programme, supported by a wide range of extra-curricular activities, encourage the development of a happy, balanced young adult.

THE SYMBIOTIC RELATIONSHIP OF GOOD RESULTS AND PASTORAL CARE The Duchess of Cambridge has catapulted the issue of children’s mental health into the public domain, undercurrents of which have been stirring ominously for the last few years.

Society has failed to realise the full impact of living life today as a child; as it is so very different to the life that every parent grew up in, regardless of socio economic backgrounds.

Key contributors are technology – gaming and social media – turbulence at home and yet another change to the education system,

Schools invited to join jazz festival Bournemouth Jazz Festival, taking place 22–24 April, has launched an exciting contest aimed at young musicians and supported by the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation (JTYAF).

Local schools and colleges are signing up to compete in the event which, as part of the Jazz Festival, will give young players a real opportunity to develop their skills and work with professional musicians.

The event forms part of an education programme featuring jazz workshops for young musicians run by professional musicians. These will include sax, trombone, keyboards, guitar and vocals. For more details visit www. bournemouthjazzfestival.co.uk

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

| 31

in and around the area

what’s on

this month 19 March 1.30pm

Verwood and District Horticultural Society spring flower show, Verwood Memorial Hall. 01202 814376

19 March 7.30pm

Mayor of Verwood’s charity singing event ‘Sing for Spring’ – variety show with local performers. Verwood Hub. 01202 828740

20 March 10.30am-12.30pm Seashore scavengers – help clear litter from Studland Beach while enjoying a stroll along the sand. Meet at Discovery Centre, Knoll Beach. Held 3rd Sunday every month (not July-August).

01929 450500

20 March 12noon-4pm

Flower show in aid of Cancer Research UK, Naked Cross Nurseries, Waterloo Road, Corfe Mullen. Displays of spring flowers, floral arrangements, cookery, handicrafts and children’s section.

01202 752014

25 March - 9 April

Sally’s holiday activities, Priest’s House Museum, Wimborne. 01202 882533

25 March-10 April 10am-3pm

Easter egg hunts, National Trust Knoll Beach office, Studland. 01929 450500.

Kingston Lacy, Wimborne.

01202 883402

25 March-12 April 11am-5pm

‘Trapped Light’ Exhibition of Contemporary Engraved Glass by southwest branch of Guild of Glass Engravers, Durlston Castle, Swanage.

01929 424443

25 March 11am-12.30pm

Great Chesil Beach eggcase hunt. Find out what a mermaid keeps in her purse.

Help search for shark and ray eggcases, and maybe find some of the chocolate variety. Chesil Beach Centre, Portland Road, Weymouth. £2. 01305 206191

32 |

VIEWPOINT March 2016

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

25 March 1-4pm

Community dog fun day KGV Fields Ferndown for East Dorset residents Free microchipping and ask the vet, stalls, taster dog classes, dog show.

Contact 07785 451834.

25 March 6pm

3 April

Bournemouth Bay Run, pier approach, half marathon, 10k, 5 k or 1k family fun run in aid of British Heart Foundation.

01202 451734

4 April 2.30pm

Bournemouth Symphony Chorus and Youth Chorus with Southern Sinfonia present J S Bach’s the St John Passion, Lighthouse, Poole’s Centre for the Arts.

01202 280000

East Dorset National Trust Association meeting. Matthew Phillips presentation through pictures of work and workplace of lowland gamekeeper on a local country estate. West Moors Memorial Hall. 01202 855001

26 March 10am-12noon

5 April 10am-5pm

Oakdale Residents Community Association’s table top sale at Oakdale Community Partnership Centre, Wimborne Road, Oakdale. 01202 269353

26 March 1.30pm

West Moors Horticultural Society spring show. West Moors Memorial Hall.

01202 871536

27 March 7.30pm

John Maddocks’ Jazz Men at St Leonards Hotel, St Leonards.

01202 701295.

30 March 10am-12noon

Free drop-in session at The Coffee Lounge, 137 Station Road, West Moors.

Post Stroke Rehab with Jo Sinclair. strokerehab@yahoo.co.uk

30 March 7.30pm

Verwood Keyboard Society presents Pete Shaw playing a Korg at Verwood Hub. 01202 822936

1 April 2pm

‘Jurassic Time Travellers’ family event.

Meet a paleontologist, have your fossil finds identified and uncover ancient animals that lived on the coast. Learning Centre, Durlston Castle, Swanage.

Booking essential, £3. 01929 424443

2 April 8am-3pm

Plant sale at Cherry Tree Nursery Sheltered Work Opportunities Project, Northbourne. 01202 593537

DWT Forest School taster session at Upton Country Park. Enjoy fun filled games and craft activities in a woodland environment . Under 11s, adult supervision required. £3. Booking essential. 01202 692033

6 April 12.15pm

Ferndown Probus Club meets at Dudsbury Golf Club, Ferndown for lunch followed by talk on ‘Dorset County Museum’. 01202 875757

6 April 7pm

The Fireside Theatre, East Dorset branch, meets at members’ home for play reading of ‘And the Tide Shall Cover the Earth’ by Norma Cole. Jenny and Mike Brown 01202 825178

7 April 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

7 April 7.30pm

Verwood and District Horticultural Society talk by Rosemary Hardy on ‘Spring Flowering Perennials’, Verwood Memorial Hall. 01202 814376

8-10 April

Swanage Railway spring steam gala.

01929 425800

9 April 12noon-4pm

Wimborne Horticultural Society spring show. Allendale Centre, Wimborne.

01202 887006

11 April 2.30pm

West Moors Horticultural Society Illustrated talk ‘Discovering Dorset (Part 2)’ by Revd KS Timbrell, West Moors Memorial Hall. 01202 871536

11 April 7.30pm

Wimborne Horticultural Society, ‘Roses’

by Mr Pocock from Pococks Roses at Romsey. Allendale Centre, Wimborne.

01202 887006

13 April 10.30am-12.30pm

Wimborne Stroke Support Group, talks

by Rachel Briton ‘My Help My Way’ and Violet Philips ‘An Introduction to Remap’, Scout Hall, off Station Road, Wimborne.

01202 884737

14 April 7.30pm

Verwood and 3LX Twinning Association, a talk by Dave Rodgers on ‘Police Work’ at Verwood Heatherland Heritage Centre. 01202 826449

15 April

Four-day coach trip to Dutch bulbfields and Amsterdam, Oakdale Residents Community Association. 01202 269353

15 April 7.30pm

Annual meeting followed by ‘The Latest Developments At Dorset Wildlife Trust’ talk by Dr Simon Cripps, CEO. Quarterjack Suite, Allendale Community Centre, Hanham Rd, Wimborne.

01305 264620

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

in and around the area

COM P

ETITI

Steaming ahead

ON

’

ania Relive ‘Beatlem

– you’d be a fool to miss out The very best of John, Paul, George and Ringo – that’s what is promised when the Upbeat Beatles come to the Barrington theatre in Ferndown on 1 April at 7.30pm.

The Upbeat Beatles tribute band takes you on a journey through the most remarkable story in the history of rock and pop music.

Using projection and narrative, teamed with the music and vocals of the band, the show will take you on a ‘Magical History Tour’, travelling through the ages of The Beatles’ relatively short yet amazing career.

The Upbeat Beatles recreate the sheer fun, excitement and magnetic power of The Fab Four and the unforgettable music they created, with their attention to detail and stunningly precise reproduction.

The show covers the beginnings at The Cavern Club in Liverpool, the frenetic, early television appearances and conquering America at Shea Stadium.

It moves onto the frenzied ‘Beatlemania’ in the early 60s, the colourful, psychedelic, flower power era of Sgt Pepper’s and The Magical Mystery Tour and the landmark final performance in 1969 on the top of the Apple Building in London.

The Upbeat Beatles have been performing together for over 17 years – almost three times as long as The Beatles did.

Swanage Railway carried a record-breaking 217,080 passengers during 2015 More than 2,400 Swanage Railway steam and diesel-hauled passenger trains travelled over 28,000 miles Company chairman and volunteer Trevor Parsons said: “This represents a lot of hard work by the people who run the trains, staff the stations and maintain the line and infrastructure required to keep trains running – day in and day out – for the pleasure of the public.

“Our volunteers and small team of paid staff have worked very hard throughout

2015 to produce such a fantastic result. Everyone is elated.”

General manager Matt Green said: “Having been rebuilt from nothing since 1976, the Swanage Railway contributes some £14 million to the Purbeck economy every year.

“We are always looking for more volunteers to join

in our continued success and have a great time while also helping to run a unique and friendly heritage railway set in beautiful Purbeck countryside,” he added.

To find out more about volunteering contact volunteer co-ordinator Mike Whitwam on 01929 475212 or email ‘volunteer@ swanagerailwaytrust.org.uk’

MAGS4DORSET and The Barrington Theatre have two tickets to give away to see the Upbeat Beatles. To be in with a chance of winning, answer this question:

In which city was Shea Stadium?

Enter at: www.mags4dorset.co.uk or on a postcard to The Upbeat Beatles, MAGS4DORSET, 1st Floor, King George V Pavilion, Peter Grant Way, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9EN. Closing date is 24 March 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.

Winner

The Tornados competition was won by Peter Pay of Poole. The answer was satellite.

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

| 33

in and around the area - advertising feature -

SPINNAKER SAILING CLUB

Situated on the outskirts of Ringwood, Spinnaker Sailing Club has been home to an enthusiastic band of dinghy sailors for over 50 years. Attracting families from all over Hampshire, Dorset and Wiltshire, Spinnaker Sailing Club is used for sailing all year round and offers members a varied menu of gentle cruising, fleet racing, team racing, training and a wide variety of social events. When time is short Spinnaker Sailing Club is the place to sail - anytime, any conditions - you can be on the water with a minimum of delay.

As a recognised RYA training centre, Spinnaker Sailing Club offers courses to anyone aged 8 to 88. Sailing courses are available after school, evenings, weekends and during the school holidays. As a family friendly sailing club, the emphasis is on safety whilst having fun and learning.

To find out more about

b,

Spinnaker Sailing Clu

please visit www.spinnakerclub.co.uk

- advertising feature -

Activate Coast & Countryside programme THE ACTIVATE COAST & COUNTRYSIDE PROGRAMME, RUN BY CHRISTCHURCH AND EAST DORSET COUNCILS, HAS JUST PUBLISHED ITS SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES GUIDE FOR 2016 This brochure details all the courses that are available throughout the area to introduce children and families to sporting activities that they may not have tried before or in which they would like to refresh their skills.

A mixture of taster and learn to courses range from Nordic walking to surfing, canoeing and

kayaking, fishing, golf, running and many of them are available as taster sessions so that people can see if they are suited to that activity.

Paper copies of the brochure can be picked up from the locations where courses are run, or from council offices and libraries and hubs.

If you would like more information and to request an electronic version please email the Health and Activity Team activate@ christchurchandeastdorset.gov.uk or visit www.moors-valley.co.uk/events

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VIEWPOINT March 2016

- advertising feature -

Craft and Garden Fair At Somerley What better way to spend a day over the Easter Bank Holiday weekend than at the Craft and Garden Fair at Somerley. This magnificent estate, lying just a few miles off the A31 near Ringwood on the edge of the New Forest, has been the home of the Earls of Somerton for generations.

Craftworkers and artists will gather to show their latest designs.

Ceramics, silk scarves, woodwork, hand-made jewellery, art, designer handbags, and a host of other crafts will delight the visitor.

Garden lovers will have a spectacular selection of unusual plants, trees and shrubs and a selection of garden furniture, pots and garden ornaments.

Children will have their own craft workshops and as Easter is such a special occasion, the first 50 children will receive a free Easter Egg.

in and around the area - advertising feature -

DORSET HEAVY HORSE FARM PARK If you’re looking for something different, try out this award-winning attraction.

Whether you’re a family, young couple or grandparents you are guaranteed a memorable and exciting day. Travel in style and admire Dorset’s finest scenery on a heavy horse wagon ride around the park. Little ones can hop on ‘Cinderella’s’ miniature pony and trap. Sit back and relax during captivating talks and displays - history with humour. Get involved with feeding heavy horses and farmyard friends. Feel like a farmer and ‘drive’ a real tractor in the off-road arena followed by a tractor and trailer ride down the valley. Step back in time and explore exhibits from days gone by. Children will want to stay for hours racing around the undercover go kart arena, giant adventure play area including zip wire and drop slides, Victorian swing boats or pony riding. You will always find a helpful and knowledgeable staff member on hand at this family run farm that is set in a totally non-commercial atmosphere. Smokey Joe’s Western Cafe offers hearty home cooked food. You will find this to be one of the best value, educational and fun days out so arrive early to gain full benefit from your visit. www.dorset-heavy-horse-centre.co.uk 01202 824040 - advertising feature -

Spot the Easter chicks

Highcliffe Castle’s Easter Trail is back again. An ’eggciting’ fun-packed Easter trail for all the family to enjoy is open from Monday 28 to Thursday 31 March.

Families can work together to find all the Easter chicks hidden in the castle grounds.

The trail is open between 11am and 4pm each day and the challenge will be to find all the Easter chicks in the gardens and then try to answer their naturethemed questions. It costs £1 to take part and there is an Easter egg prize for each completed trail.

Admission to the grounds is free, but car parking charges apply.

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

| 35

in and around the area

que for £1200 was proud to present a che Verwood Pantomime Society based setDor the aic, Mos , the CEO of to Margaret Hannibal MBE ered bereavement. suff e hav who dren chil s charity which support es with from their generous audienc The money was collected ood Hub in Verw the at st Bea the and uty after-show collections at Bea January.

Prince d by Belle (Joanna Dey) and The cheque was presente Danton (Maddi Storey). k everyone who donated.

The Society would like to than

Easter fun

Easter egg hunt This is being held every day from Friday 25 MarchSunday 10 April. Simply buy a £2 trail card at the visitor centre between 9am-4pm and go off into the forest looking for Easter egg clues. Then collect and ‘unscramble’ all the letters to win a chocolate prize.

- advertising feature -

Kingston Lacy It’s that time of the year again when Kingston Lacy teams up with Cadbury to offer visitors an eggciting day out. Over the Easter holiday discover your inner explorer on a Cadbury Easter Egg hunt.

The Easter bunny has hidden his precious chocolate eggs at The National Trust property just outside Wimborne.

Families can follow the clues to find his hidden stash while exploring the acres of lawns, gardens and woodlands and enjoying the spring flowers.

What’s more, everyone will be rewarded with a delicious Cadbury chocolate treat at the end of each completed hunt. Every single hunt will help the National Trust care for special places like Kingston Lacy for future generations to explore.

Take part in the Easter egg hunt from 11am-4pm, 25-29 March.

Easter fun at Moors Valley

FROM EGGS TO GRUFFALOS AND TRAINS TO CHICKS, THERE’S PLENTY TO DO AT MOORS VALLEY’S AWARD-WINNING COUNTRY PARK RIGHT THROUGH THE EASTER HOLIDAYS

Children’s Easter decorations Sunday 27 March sees a special children’s Easter workshop. Suitable for all ages, there is no need to book onto this ‘Eggs and Chicks’ craft event, just turn up to cut out and decorate some seasonal clay shapes to dry and paint at home. Workshops run from 10.30am-1.30pm and 1-2pm. Each shape costs £1.50 and children must be accompanied.

Stick Man and Guffalo’s Child Other special family activities include the Stick Man activity trail. Collect an activity pack for £3 from the visitor centre, then enjoy a walk in the woods to help Julia Donaldson’s Stick Man find his way back to his family tree, whilst also learning about the importance of forests for people, wildlife and timber.

A new arrival in time for Easter is a giant sculpture of the Gruffalo’s Child. Carved from sustainable timber, she has joined the eight-foot high sculpture of her Gruffalo father.

www.moors-valley.co.uk 01425 470721 - advertising feature -

BLACK BELT ACADEMY Martial Arts training can help children and adults reprogramme their brains so they can reach their true potential. This is achieved through a combination of neural pathway exercises, physical strength exercises and neuro-linguistic programming techniques. With an instructor’s guidance, The Black Belt Academy can help to build a child’s confidence and self esteem so they can also achieve the ability to reassess how they value things, and achieve what they set out to accomplish.

This is the best way to ensure that children do not succumb to the negative opinions and pressures of others but have the confidence to be a leader and develop into a responsible member of the community.

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VIEWPOINT March 2016

Sponsored holidays for the disabled Applications are now open for disabled people to apply for a week’s holiday with the Green Island Holiday Trust in 2016

T

heir holidays are based at Holton Lee, set in beautiful countryside on the shores of Poole Harbour. A dedicated team of volunteers provides 24-hour care and support.

Holiday requests are invited from people living in their own homes in addition to those living in a supported living or residential environment.

Holiday weeks take place in May, July and September, with a maximum of five guests per week. Through the trust’s

partnership with Wimborne Rotary, sponsorship is available for applicants who are registered as disabled. Priority is given to those who are living in the Wimborne locality.

For further information call coordinator Wendy Aubrey on 01202 375006 or email organiser@ greenislandholidaytrust.com Alternatively visit www. greenislandholidaytrust.com where you can also download a holiday request form.

And the winners are…

Ferndown Chamber of Commerce members got together for a skittles match at the Coach and Horses in Wimborne last month. Seven teams of four fought for the title.

Triumphant winners were Tony Brown, Billie, Jenny and Liam (Y-Not Finance).

MONTHLY HOROSCOPES with RUSSELL GRANT MARCH 2016 ARIES March 21 - April 20 An opportunity to find meaningful work could arrive in the second half of the month.

Publishing, education and travel are all good industries to explore for career opportunities.

A close relationship will show signs of strains on the 23rd, due to a stressful Lunar Eclipse. Taking a solitary holiday is strongly advised as April approaches. Visit a country that has fascinated you since childhood.

TAURUS April 21 - May 21 During the second half of March, your creative impulses will be stimulated. This will be a great time to paint, play music or design works of beauty. A work assignment will come to an end near the 23rd, due to a Lunar Eclipse. Try not to let this situation cause lots of stress.

You have to clear the decks to make way for fresh opportunities.

GEMINI May 22 - June 21 Finding a way to work from home is a distinct possibility during the second half of the month. The results of a creative project will be disappointing on the 23rd, when a Lunar Eclipse causes harsh critics to come out of the woodwork. Try to take this disappointment with a pinch of salt. Treat this challenge as a test of character. Pick yourself up and dust yourself off.

CANCER June 22 - July 23 During the second half of March, your business or romantic partner will spread the word of your talent. Landing a lucrative assignment is a distinct possibility. It may be necessary to move around the 23rd, when a Lunar Eclipse makes emergency repairs necessary.

LEO July 24 - August 23 An unexpected expense will arise on the 9th, due to a disruptive Solar Eclipse.

Fortunately, you’ll be able to land a steady job during the second half of the month.

This work will help you pay the bills and stay financially afloat. A troubled relationship with a relative or neighbour could come to an end near the 23rd. That’s when a Lunar Eclipse will force you to face some painful realities. Going away on an extended break can help you to come to terms with this loss as April approaches.

It will be a relief to escape familiar surroundings.

SAGITTARIUS November 23 - December 21 A Solar Eclipse on the 9th warns against buying a property. Postpone such a purchase until later in the year, when you’ll be in a stronger financial position. This is a time to accumulate money, not spend it. An exciting career opportunity will arrive during the second half of March, changing the course of your life. Doing work that is both lucrative and satisfying will be the answer to a prayer. Breaking away from an oppressive group will be liberating on the 23rd, when the Lunar Eclipse causes you to question the company you keep.

VIRGO August 24 - September 23 If you are in a relationship, your union could experience some difficulty around the 9th.

Being more attentive, supportive and giving is critical. Don’t impose your family’s beliefs on your amour. The two of you may have been raised very differently. It’s unfair to expect them to have the same priorities and values. Finding a middle ground is possible during the second half of the month, when you’ll be able to make some personal sacrifices on behalf of your partner. A Lunar Eclipse on the 23rd will cause a source of income to dry up. Don’t panic. It may take time to find a steady job, so be patient.

CAPRICORN December 22 - January 20 You may have to repeatedly defend yourself during the second half of the month. Keep a low profile. Working behind the scenes will be more rewarding and less stressful. A Lunar Eclipse on the 23rd will bring an end to a painful career matter. Take this opportunity to spend more quality time with your nearest and dearest. Having an enriching personal life is critical to your professional success. If you have to take a break from work, do it with an open and grateful heart.

LIBRA September 24 - October 23 A Solar Eclipse on the 9th could make you aware of a health problem. It may take some time to get this illness properly diagnosed.

Be patient and don’t subject your body to intense workouts or heavy foods. Some holistic therapy could be helpful during the second half of the month.

Let your best friend or romantic partner relieve you of chores while you recover. You may decide to upgrade your appearance on the 23rd, due to a Lunar Eclipse.

Saying goodbye to the past and embracing a more cutting edge look is strongly advised. A business or romantic partner can help you with valuable knowledge and know how as April approaches.

SCORPIO October 24 - November 22 A Solar Eclipse on the 9th could force you to adopt a new approach to your creative work.

Be open to criticism, even if it stings a little.

There will be lots of trial and error involved with an art project during the second half of the month.

A tasteful friend will offer good advice about improving your performance. A Lunar Eclipse on the 23rd will force you out of the shadows. You’ll have to assume a more public role at work.

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VIEWPOINT March 2016

AQUARIUS January 21 - February 19 A Solar Eclipse on the 9th will attract a moneymaking opportunity, but there will be plenty of strings attached. You might want to hold out for a job that allows a greater measure of freedom. If you do accept this position, treat it as a stepping stone to bigger and better things.

During the second half of the month, money from an inheritance, refund or legal settlement will improve your financial situation. Put as much of this windfall as possible into a savings account, where it can protect you from economic uncertainty. A Lunar Eclipse on the 23rd could cause a hero to fall from grace.

PISCES February 20 - March 20 If you’re looking for love, you could find it with an old friend during the second half of the month. Are you already in a relationship?

Your amour will have exciting news about a job or creative opportunity. Go out and celebrate. Don’t make the mistake of getting deep in debt on the 23rd.

That’s when a Lunar Eclipse will force you to become more financially responsible.

Vector Graphics by VectorOpenStock.com

motoring

Don’t use Blue-Badge llegal drivers continue to tot-up penalty points copycat websites Trading standards officers are warning Dorset residents about unregulated copycat websites dealing with applications and renewals of Blue Badge disabled parking permits.

They may appear to offer a quick-andeasy application but charge at least £49 for minimal help in completing the application, and they have no authority to issue a Blue Badge. Dorset residents will still have to submit their applications to Dorset County Council and pay a further £10 to cover the genuine application fee.

The copycat websites are in no way affiliated to the Blue Badge scheme and many ask for information such as bank details and National Insurance numbers, which could be used for further fraud.

Ivan Hancock, Trading Standards service manager for Dorset County Council, said, “Steer clear of these rip-off sites. Many are based overseas so are difficult to tackle when problems arise. The official Blue Badge costs £10 and you can find more information on the eligibility requirements and how to apply for or to renew a Blue Badge through the council’s website or through the government’s official gov.uk pages.”

To report a problem with a copycat website contact Citizens Advice on 03454 040506. This is the first point of contact for consumer advice or to report any consumer problem to Trading Standards.

For information about the Blue Badge scheme and how to apply please visit: www. dorsetforyou.com/blue-badge

An extraordinary number of motorists in the UK are driving with 12 points or more on their driving licences.

Motoring.co.uk has revealed via a Freedom of Information request from the DVLA and highlighted by the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) that 7,621 people are still driving with 12 points or more on their licence.

These motorists have reached the threshold to be banned, yet are still driving on UK roads. Not only could this endanger other road users as the motorists are proven to be a danger but it also brings the penalty point system into disrepute.

Normally, under the ‘totting up’ system, drivers are banned if they accumulate 12 points on their licence over a three-year period.

In addition, a staggering 15 drivers have 30 or more points on their licence, with a male motorist from Liverpool totting up 45 points for speeding and failing to give information.

Seven of the top 15 penalty point holders are male, whilst two drivers have been caught for using a vehicle uninsured six times.

A female driver with 38 points has been caught speeding on ten occasions.

The IAM has blamed a breakdown in communication between the courts and the DVLA for these figures.

Sarah Sillars, IAM chief executive officer, said: “The IAM has been highlighting

this issue for several years now and we appreciate that the flow of information between the DVLA and the courts is slowly improving, which will allow the courts to make better decisions while armed with the full facts.

“However these improvements cannot come quickly enough to deliver a truly joined-up approach to the judicial process. Individual courts making decision on prosecutions can lead to inconsistency in how the law is applied which risks devaluing the simple ‘12 points and you’re out’ road safety message. If the public sees that persistent offenders are getting away with it, they may believe that road traffic rules – which let us not forget, are designed for their safety – are ineffective or unimportant.”

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

| 39

motoring

Police warn public after counterfeit airbag seizures

T

he City of London Police’s was launched by PIPCU following a Intellectual Property Crime referral from the Intellectual Property Unit [PIPCU] arrested a man Office and Honda Motor Europe who in Dorset on 18 February as identified that counterfeit airbags were part of an ongoing investigation into being sold on eBay. the online sale of counterfeit airbags Detailed factory analysis to the public. of the airbags was As a result of this commenced at Honda’s “FINDING A enquiry officers have UK headquarters in GOOD DEAL alerted 680 people liaison with PIPCU. It was ONLINE SHOULD confirmed that they were believed to have made purchases from counterfeit and would NOT LEAD TO an individual selling COMPROMISING not deploy as a genuine counterfeit and potentially airbag would on collision, YOU OWN dangerous airbags and presenting a clear danger airbag covers on eBay. to the public.

SAFETY.” They have been advised As a result of financial to make contact with their local investigations, 680 people were dealership immediately so their identified by PIPCU from payment vehicle receives checks to ensure it records relating to eBay vendors is safe. using the names ‘EU_Trading’, The man, aged 34, was arrested ‘OMNADRENIAK1984’ and in Blandford Forum on suspicion of ‘barbo2007.’ It has been established counterfeiting and money laundering that purchases have been made by offences. He was released on a wide range of small and medium bail until August pending further businesses and individuals. enquiries.

It is understood that 148 of those Officers also carried out a consumers purchased suspected search at an address in Poole and counterfeit Honda CRV and Accord seized approximately 100 suspected airbags. Officers are currently counterfeit airbags, a large quantity establishing if the remaining 532 of airbag components, with financial purchases concern other counterfeit documents and computers. manufacturer car parts.

Staff from the Ministry of Defence The counterfeit Honda airbags also attended the address as a had been on sale since September precaution due to the presence of 2013 for approximately £170, which is explosives in the airbags. half the price of a genuine airbag.

In January 2016 an investigation PIPCU officers will be liaising

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VIEWPOINT March 2016

with eBay so that they can take the public to use reputable suppliers, action to remove the infringing sales and if you have any doubt about what sites from their website. Officers are you are buying, don’t cut corners, also taking action to suspend any of and don’t buy it. the vendor’s associated sales sites “We are working closely with by working closely with Nominet, Honda, the motoring industry and the UK’s central registry for all .uk online auction platforms, to disrupt domains. This remains protocol for the sale of counterfeit airbags and any site in breach of the Copyright car parts and ensure that they are and Trademark Act. permanently eliminated from the Superintendent Maria Woodall market. of the City of London Police said: “Our message to consumers is “The counterfeiting of any device clear – think before you buy online designed to save lives demonstrates and ensure your purchases are made the obscene lengths criminals from genuine and official websites. will go to make money and their The chances are that if you don’t, you sheer disregard for those they are place your finances, personal security exploiting. and wellbeing at significant risk.”

“With the safety of the public Managing Director of Honda being our primary focus Motor Europe’s UK in this investigation, we subsidiary, Philip “OUR MESSAGE are urging anyone who Crossman, said: “The TO CONSUMERS has concerns about a safety of customers is of possible counterfeit car IS CLEAR – THINK paramount importance, part they may have, to BEFORE YOU BUY and we aim to eliminate contact their nearest counterfeiting.

ONLINE...” authorised car dealer.

“We strongly They will have the recommend any expertise to examine the vehicle and modification to the airbag systems of determine if it is safe and roadworthy. our cars be undertaken by a trained Furthermore, if you suspect you have technician in an official dealership. purchased a counterfeit product If customers are concerned, they or have come into contact with a should visit their local dealership.” counterfeit website please report the Individuals or businesses who matter to Action Fraud. have fallen victim to a fraud facilitated “Finding a good deal online by identity crime should report to should not lead to compromising Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or your own safety. We are reminding online at www.actionfraud.police.uk.

specialist services ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES

AERIAL & SATELLITE INSTALLERS

AIRPORT TRANSFERS

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

BUILDING & REPAIRS

FENCING

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VIEWPOINT March 2016

DECORATING

BLINDS

FENCING

GARAGE DOORS

specialist services GARAGE DOORS

GARDENING SERVICES

HOUSE CLEARANCE

LOCKSMITH

MAINTENANCE

GRAPHIC DESIGN

PLUMBING & HEATING

SHUTTERS

STORAGE

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

| 43

specialist services TILING

TREE SURGERY

TREE SURGERY

TREE SURGERY

WINDOW REPAIRS

WINDOW REPAIRS

WINDOW REPAIRS

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.

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VIEWPOINT March 2016

FREEADS Proceed with caution when buying privately. MAGS4DORSET cannot accept any liablity for transactions carried out as a result of responding to these freeads.

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.

Puppy run, robust, 6 panels each 90cm high x 120cm wide, dual coated rust resistance built in, step over door. £35. West Moors. 01202 891187

Vibrapower exercise, stand on disc plate for total body workout, toning and tightening. New condition. £50. West Moors. 01202 890097

Two pairs of boots, chocolate brown leather ankle boots, 2-inch heels, M and S, VGC. £8. Carvella black leather long boots, 2½ inch heels.

Lovely condition. £7.40 Both size 5½ Fordingbridge. 07867 813213.

Puzzles, 5 Wasjig, 1 new, and 5 Funnies. £10. Ringwood. 01425 471682

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

Golf trolley, 3-wheeler. As new. £30.

Golf bag. £10. Ferndown. 01202 871026

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

Bathroom cabinet, pine, approx 18inch x 10inch x 6inch, mirrored door.

VGC. £20. Wimborne. 01202 886757 G Plan table, teak, 64inch x 40inch with 36inch extension. Downsizing forces sales. Buyer collects. £30.

Verwood. 01202 824615 Two hearth rugs, new, 100% wool. £25 each. Verwood. 01202 826153 Sun or car canopy, removed and ready, 10ft x 8ft approx. £50. Ferndown.

01202 890049 Honey leather jacket, and ruby red suede jacket, both size 10-12. VGC. £25 ono. Fordingbridge. 07867 813213 Family dining table, G Plan, teak, 64inch x 42inch, extends by 18inches. £20. Verwood. 01202 824615

Stressless recliner, 2-seater, green.

Excellent condition. Downsizing. £150.

Verwood. 01202 824615

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

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

Aquavac, very effective carpet cleaning. Surplus as downsizing. £20.

Verwood. 01202 824615 Dining room suite, glass table, 4 chairs in dark brown and taupe. £150 ono. Ringwood. 01425 480297 Cordon Blue cookery books, in four original box files. Mint condition. £50.

Alderholt. 01425 652035 Double phone bed, easily assembled, no mattress. VGC. £55. Two bike carriers, car top boxed with estate cross bars (Paddy Hopkirk), lockable. £60. Three Legged Cross. 01202 823458

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

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

DECLARATION: PLEASE CROSS OUT THE STATEMENT THAT DOES NOT APPLY TO YOU AND SIGN THE FORM BEFORE POSTING. I confirm I am not a tradesperson | I am a tradesperson and enclose a cheque for £36 PER ITEM including VAT Signature …...................................................

Date ….............................

TRADESPEOPLE MUST PAY BY CREDIT/DEBIT CARD AT TIME OF BOOKING

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

| 45

ASK THE EXPERT

A. First and foremost make sure

you carefully choose the right agent based on their experience, local profile and services rather than just because they offer you a cheap fee. Good agents will do a great deal more to market and promote your home other than just advertise your home on Rightmove. They will also provide you with some great advice and answer any question you may have in order to maximise the marketability of your home.

Once you are confident you have the right agent on your side, you then need to focus on ensuring that your home looks its very best. As we move from winter into spring, I would always recommend that you start by having a good tidy up outside to ensure your home creates the right first impressions.

Nolan Irving

Q. What should we do to ensure our home generates lots of interest when it goes on the market?

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VIEWPOINT March 2016

Increase the kerb appeal. No-one wants to wade through a sea of fallen leaves and general debris to get to the front door. Pathways should be cleared and the front garden should be kept neat and tidy. Wash down any UPVC doors and re-paint any wooden doors or frames. Buyers may not notice the door if it is clean however they will always notice if it is shabby looking! Your home’s first impressions really do count.

Add some colour and brightness.

However large or small your property is, there is an opportunity to enhance it by introducing some colour. Why

not use window boxes, hanging baskets, topiary bushes, a vase of flowers or even plant up some flowers in some pots and tubs.

Anything living promotes life in your property and is very welcoming.

No parking allowed. It is common today that families have more than two cars so if at all possible re-park any cars that are either blocking the view of the house or just taking up drive space. If you have a large driveway, it will not be appreciated if multiple cars are parked there.

Window wash and fascia clean.

Don’t just look at washing your windows but the guttering, fascia, window sills and surrounds. It is just another reflection on how well your property is maintained throughout.

Find refuge for the refuse. Clear out any dumping ground areas! Banish any black bin sacks and shield any large wheelie bins as potential buyers do not need to see them stacked up outside the front of the property!

Polite requests. If you feel your neighbour’s property is affecting the appearance of your own, for example they have rubbish piling up or parked cars outside your property, then politely discuss with them about removing them. Normally they would accommodate your requests and if not then at least you asked.

Once you are sure that you have

got the external first impressions right, then have a good look around the inside of your home. Start in the entrance hall and make your way through every room taking note of any little jobs that need to be done and clearing out all the un-required clutter. Once you’ve got a list of jobs then tick them off as you complete them.

In most cases it is not worth replacing kitchens and bathrooms but giving the house a quick coat of paint and clearing out the clutter will make all the difference.

Once everything is done it’s time to contact your chosen estate agent in order for them to take the photos and prepare all the marketing material, then sit back and let the viewings begin.

It’s at this point that the value of your estate agent will come into its own as an experienced agent will be able to negotiate hard on your behalf and ensure that all your hard work is reflected by achieving an excellent sale price for you.

If you are unsure where to start or even where to finish with the preparation of your home, then just give me a call and I will be more than happy to offer your some advice and help.

Nolan Irving, Irving & Sons Estate Agent of Verwood