Viewpoint October 2019 by Dorset View

Established Over 35 Years Mid October 2019

Your Independent Local Magazine

VIEWPOINT

Volume 43, Issue 12

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

Action packed Ringwood Carnival Thousands of people lined the streets for Ringwood Carnival on 21 September and it didn’t disappoint. Turn to pages 12 and 13 for more photographs.

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE : • CONGRATULATIO NS, PLASTIC FREE FERNDOWN • INTERVIEW WI TH LEADER OF DO RSET COUNCIL, SPENCE R FLOWER • BOURNEMOUT H CLIMATE STRIK E RALLY • EDUCATION WI NS OVER ROUNDA BOUT

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VIEWPOINT October 2019

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VIEWPOINT

Volume 43 • Issue 12 • October 2019

This issue is also available online at www.mags4dorset.co.uk

Dear Readers!

MAGS4DORSET Ben Pulford managing director ben@mags4dorset.co.uk

Learning to use a defibrillator

The hardest thing about training to use a defibrillator is actually saying the word – and for someone like me, whose Rs sound more like Ws, it’s quite a challenge. However, when the Allendale Centre – which has a device on the wall outside – announced a free Defibrillator Awareness Training event, I went along. The event was organised by The Community Heartbeat Trust, a charity that aims to help and support communities in the correct provision and use of defibrillators. The medical devices help and support a rescue for a patient in cardiac arrest by sending a shock to the heart to restore a normal rhythm. The instructor Dave reassured us that by using the device you can’t hurt anyone. “It’s a bit like using control, alt, delete on a computer,” he said. The most important thing if someone collapses is to check and see if the casualty needs help. If they don’t respond to talk or touch, dial 999 immediately. If there is a nearby defibrillator you will be given an access code to the device. The course took us through resuscitation of the patient using chest compressions, before demonstrating the use of the defibrillator – which is quite simple as a recorded voice gives you full instructions. You only have minutes to save a life, and I would urge readers to go on the next awareness event in your area. To round off this month’s coloumn, I must say congratulations to Janine, Ben and Louis from mags4dorset who, with a steering committee, have enabled Plastic Free Ferndown to reach its goal.

Marilyn Barber News editor

Nick Pulford company secretary accounts@mags4dorset.co.uk

NEWS DESK 01202 941469 Janine Pulford editor editorial@mags4dorset.co.uk Marilyn Barber news editor newseditor@mags4dorset.co.uk Louise van Wingerden assistant editor mags@mags4dorset.co.uk

DESIGN

01202 233441

Louis Pulford creative director louispulford@brightboxdesigns.co.uk

Matt Jaquest graphic designer

ADVERTISING 01202 816140 Mark Beechey account manager DD: 01202 941465 mark@mags4dorset.co.uk

Russell Harness account manager DD: 01202 941466 russell@mags4dorset.co.uk Simon Thornton account manager DD: 01202 941470 simon@mags4dorset.co.uk Calls may be recorded for training and quality purposes.

LOGISTICS

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

Mike Talbot Alexandra O’Neill

Picture of the month Congratulations! Freelance photographer Tom Scrase is presented with Sam and Joe’s Challenge Bowl for his support of Wimborne In Bloom events

How to contact us Enquiries: 01202 870270 Advertising: 01202 816140 Brightbox Designs: 01202 233441 Email: mags@mags4dorset.co.uk Web: www.mags4dorset.co.uk Twitter: @mags4dorset Facebook: mags4dorset.news Dana House, Spinneys Lane, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9BZ Follow VIEWPOINT MAGAZINE on FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/viewpointmagazinedorset/

Copy date

25 OCTOBER 2019

VIEWPOINT is independently published and distributed free to homes and businesses in selected areas of Dorset and Hampshire. It is also available by subscription at £40 per year. Views or opinions expressed in VIEWPOINT are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement deemed to be unsuitable for publication. Information about a service does not imply recommendation. All purchases made through this publication are done so entirely at your own risk. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with VIEWPOINT and should not be reproduced without prior written permission from the publisher. The company’s privacy policy can be read at www.mags4dorset.co.uk

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Education provision wins over roundabout improvements By Marilyn Barber Additional funding amounting to half a million pounds is to go towards education provision and affordable housing in the Wimborne area, instead of alterations to the Canford Bottom roundabout. The last ever meeting of East Dorset District Council’s planning committee, which was held on 20 March, agreed a full planning application for the erection of a community sports facility for Wimborne Rugby club, together with an outline application for 174 new homes on land south of Leigh Road, Wimborne. The S106 agreement – the agreement made between authorities and developers for the funding of infrastructure to enable the development to proceed – provided for highway improvements amounting to £500,000 at the junction of Wimborne Road West and the Canford Bottom roundabout with the provision of an additional lane. In addition £443,938 was to go towards education provision in the area. However, two members of that planning committee had expressed concern that the sum was inadequate. Since that planning permission was granted, the developers have carried out further transport assessments of the scheme, and concluded that the proposed works to the approach of the Canford Bottom roundabout are not necessary to mitigate the impact of the development on the local highway network. To further complicate the matter, following the local government reorganisation, which took place on 1 April, the new authority is Dorset Council. Therefore, the amendments were considered by the new Eastern Area Planning Committee, which

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VIEWPOINT October 2019

is made up of different councillors to the former EDDC planning committee. The recommendation before the committee on 25 September was that as those works were no longer required, the sum of £899,694 should be apportioned to education and £44,000 towards affordable housing in the Wimborne and Colehill areas.

Canford Bottom roundabout even mentioned in local pantomimes

disagreed and said, “It is right to redirect the developers’ contributions towards more worthy causes – education and affordable housing.” He added that he understood Highways England – which is responsible for the roundabout – had a five-year plan and that works to the Canford Bottom roundabout could be under consideration. Councillor Shane Bartlett said, “Additional money for education is desperately needed.” Councillor David Morgan said, “The sum of £500,000 would be a drop in the ocean towards funding roadworks, but will go a long way towards funding a new primary school.” The members of Dorset Council’s Eastern Area Planning committee backed officers’ recommendations and voted by eight members to two to approve the amendments.

Columns of local newspapers have been devoted to complaints about the Canford Bottom roundabout, and it has even been mentioned in local pantomimes, so it was inevitable that when improvements were on the table there would be plenty of discussion. Amongst the speakers was Councillor Janet Dover, who represents Colehill and Wimborne Minster on Dorset Council. She said residents had contacted her expressing concern about traffic building up at the roundabout, and requesting that the works should be retained as part of the agreement. Planning committee member Alex Brenton said she felt congestion at the roundabout was very bad and she didn’t consider enough money was being put into the infrastructure for the development to take place. “And we aren’t sure Highways England will improve the roundabout in Canford Bottom Roundabout was transformed into a the future,” she said. hamburger junction prior to the 2012 Olympics. Picture shows it However, Councillor Robin Cook shortly after it opened with an interesting choice of directional writing on the road. (Reported in Viewpoint August 2012).

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Get Ready for Brexit!

Will the UK leave the EU on 31 October? This is the question on everyone’s lips and it seems the only person who knows for sure is the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson. Regardless of a ‘deal’ or ‘no deal,’ Mr Johnson is gearing the nation to leave the EU at the end of the month. Dorset Council has put plans in place and says it is ready for all eventualities. It has set up two Brexit groups covering strategy and operations. The council has also published a high-level risk register, information for EU residents living or working in Dorset, application for settled or presettled status, as well as information for businesses and self-employed people. To find out more visit www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk and search for Brexit.

Have your say on urgent care

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When you need urgent health care, you want a quick and easy way to access the necessary help. Dorset’s new urgent care service aims to make sure that happens. You can find out more about the Integrated Urgent Care Service, launched in Dorset in April this year, at the Annual Members’ Meeting (AMM) at the Allendale Centre, Wimborne on 23 October. The service, which is available for anyone facing an urgent health problem, is being led by Dorset HealthCare in partnership with local GPs, the ambulance service and the county’s three acute hospitals. Everyone’s welcome to come and hear more about the service and give views on how it’s working and how it could improve. The main speaker will be Dorset HealthCare medical director Dr Steve Tomkins, who is also a local GP. He will explain how the service is working including the new 111 phone line service, the online service and the work of the team of healthcare professionals who help you find the care you need. The AMM runs from 3pm-5.30pm on 23 October. Everyone is welcome, but places are limited. To book visit www.dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk and search for ‘Booking Form’.

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Broadstone woman makes a splash Charlotte Homer, 25, from Broadstone, took on Forest Holme Hospice’s 25km For 25 Years fundraising challenge by paddle boarding from Sandbanks to Bournemouth Pier and back twice, raising £565 in the process for the Poolebased charity. However, due to poor weather conditions, Charlotte had to do it across two separate days and because of the rough seas and strong winds, she ended up completing 30km in total. Charlotte said, “Forest Holme looked after my lovely nanny and the staff treated her and us like family, which I’m eternally grateful for. They made the whole experience more bearable and the nature of care and wellbeing is something I have never seen before, which is the reason I chose to raise money for them.”

Anyone interested in participating in Forest Holme Hospice’s 25km For 25 years can register for FREE via www.25kmfor25.eventbrite.co.uk

Charlotte with her paddle board

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Big Sleep Easy

Apple fest for twinners

Around 200 representatives from local businesses are to discover the privations of sleeping rough next month – and amongst them is Louis Pulford, this magazine’s creative director. They will be bedding down under the stars at The Bournemouth Sports Club (Chapel Gate), near Bournemouth Airport, as part of YMCA Bournemouth’s ‘Big Sleep Easy 2019’. The event, on Saturday 16 November, is designed to raise awareness of local homelessness and fund projects that aim to keep individuals safe from homelessness over the long-term. Members of Dorset Chamber taking part include Lester Aldridge LLP, TeamJobs, Homeline Mortgages, Marquee Elegance, Ward Goodman, Motley, REIDSteel, Hoburne Holidays, FC Douch & Son and the Hope for the Homeless team, led by BirghtBox Designs and MAGS4DORSET. “No one should be

Fordingbridge Twinning Association held an afternoon tea recently at Avonway Community Centre, to thank its members for their support over the past year. It was well-attended and the catering was provided by Allison Rust and her team. The next event is the annual Foire de la Pomme (apple festival), which takes place every year in Vimoutiers, twinned with Fordingbridge, every third weekend in October. Members will travel by ferry

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sleeping on the streets in the 21st century and in fact this problem seems to be getting worse,” said Dorset Chamber CEO Ian Girling. “As a Chamber we are really keen to back the great work of YMCA Bournemouth in providing support for people experiencing homelessness and we are really pleased to be taking part in the Bournemouth Big Sleep Easy.” To take part in the Big Sleep Easy 2019 please email fundraising@ ymcabournemouth.org. uk or call Sheena Dayman on 07824 333505.

YMCA Bournemouth CEO Gareth Sherwood and Ian Girling

VIEWPOINT October 2019

from Portsmouth. A spokesman said, “Vimoutiers is only an hour’s drive from Caen. It’s always a great weekend, and the French hosts look after us very well.” Two weeks after that, Fordingbridge Twinning Association will be running their annual ‘Musical Soiree’, when the food (and drink) will be fresh from the Foire de la Pomme, Vimoutiers. The band will be Blue Tides, led by Stephen Godsall.

Bumper entries for horticultural show West Moors Horticultural Society’s summer show attracted an impressive 430 entries. The West Moors Dahlia Championship was won by Andy Savage, and Mary Ford took the prize for the small growers’ championship for dahlias. Roger Church won best exhibit in flowers and best in all horticultural with a superb hosta. Dave Manston won best exhibit in the vegetable classes with his collection and Bill Howarth won the best exhibit in fruit. A spokesperson said, “West Moors has an excellent Floral Art Society and with the help of this we had a large number of floral art exhibits, and the best exhibit in these classes was won by Zandra Lane. Other best exhibits were David Lanigan for photography and Judith Waterworth for homecrafts. It was one of the best summer shows that we have had with

many exhibitors, excellent comments from the judges and a good numbers of visitors through the door. A lot of hard work for the committee members, but it was worth it.”

Andy Savage with his championship Dahlias

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MAGS4DORSET Charity of the Year John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation

Making a difference during JTYAF-funded exhibition

Here at the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation (JTYAF) we have had a busy but exciting few weeks and we are very grateful to mags4dorset for the opportunity to share our news with you. In last month’s column we gave details of the JTYAF funded expedition to Ghana, where 10 air cadet junior leaders were set to travel to the village of Obom to improve access to education for the children in the local community. Well they’re home now after an extremely successful three weeks. They completed the building of The John Thornton Presby High School, converting the block shell into a finished building. Works included fully plastering, rendering and painting the building to protect it from the extreme heat and rain, as well as creating walkways and steps for safe access to the classrooms. The work of this year’s junior leaders builds on the achievements of the 2017 & 2018 JTYAF expeditions and between the three projects children of Obom aged five to 18 years finally have access to reliable and modern education. These schools will not only provide them with an education and better opportunities for the future but will also help to stimulate the local economy. John’s legacy lives on and is making a huge difference to the lives of so many local young people, not only of those taking part in these expeditions but also those in the communities that they visit. If you’d like to help to support the work we do why not join us for our next event? Tickets are now available for ‘Meet the Producers Gin & Rum Fest’ on Friday 1 November at the Barrington Centre, Ferndown. Organised by Ferndown Rotary Club in support of the JTYAF, tickets are just £17.50 and include a gin and tonic of your choice, all tastings, a free prize draw, presentations throughout the evening and much more! To find out more please visit. www.jtyaf.org

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law spot

Local lottery proposed Would you like to participate in a local lottery?

What are the hidden costs of moving? by Natasha Mallett, Solicitor Residential Conveyancing, Harold G Walker Solicitors

Natasha Mallett

When moving house, finances are usually at the forefront of your mind. From obtaining the best price for the house you are buying and/or selling, getting the right mortgage to suit your needs, estate agency fees, solicitor fees, removals and of course, the dreaded Stamp Duty Land Tax. All before you even start looking at utilities and services – the list seems endless. Unfortunately, the costs do not stop once you have had an offer accepted. If you are selling a leasehold property, you will likely be asked to pay for an information pack from the company that manages the building. If you are buying a leasehold property, after completing your purchase you may need to pay a fee to update the managing agents of your ownership. You may also need to confirm with them that you have complied with the requirements of the lease to obtain certification of compliance. Even if you are selling a freehold property, there may be managed areas you are required to contribute towards, such as a communal parking area. Your buyer’s solicitor will expect to receive information regarding this as part of the contract pack. Harold G Walker Solicitors will obtain the information regarding these extra costs as part of their initial investigations so that you are aware as soon as possible what your expected outlay for the matter will be. This allows you to budget for the other moving costs accordingly. They appreciate the stress that moving can bring and this is just one of the ways they can assist you to make things a little bit easier. For further information please contact the Conveyancing Team at Harold G Walker, 01202 692448.

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In order to support voluntary and community organisations, Dorset Council is considering introducing a community lottery. It is proposed that a ticket would cost £1. Players would be able to nominate good causes they wish to support when buying their ticket. 50p from each £1 would go to the local cause, and 10p towards a community grant. Players would get a chance to win prizes of up to £25,000. Every ticket

purchased would have a one in 50 chance of winning and winners would be given the option to reinvest their winnings to their nominated charity or community group. Tickets would be available to purchase online for a weekly draw. To share your views on the idea of a local community lottery visit www.snapsurveys.com/wh/s. asp?k=156328632851

Are your toys safe? According to the Child Accident Prevention Trust, asphyxia, including choking, is the second most common cause of accidental child death in the UK. Trading Standards work with manufacturers and importers to check that toys are safe and will investigate and take action where consumers’ safety is put at risk. Officers inspect consignments of goods at ports, airports and postal hubs. They detain unsafe and non-compliant consumer goods that could cause harm and use intelligence systems to alert others to any risks found. Slime toys became one of the more recent crazes amongst children, but many tested contained boron levels

which exceeded European Union safety limits, and so breached toy safety laws. Goods entering the UK by less formal routes can pose great risks to safety. Through online purchasing, toys can be bought and imported directly by any individual. You may have experienced this yourself, when buying goods online only to find they were dispatched directly from China for example. Illegal, unsafe toys can therefore still be found on sale so shop with care. Look out for the CE mark on new toys and only buy from reputable suppliers. Report any concerns to Dorset Council Trading Standards by calling the Citizens Advice helpline on 03454 04 05 06.

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Do you suffer with migraines? Had your hearing checked recently? It is recommended that hearing tests should be part of everyone’s personal healthcare routine and that getting your hearing tested regularly should be as commonplace as eye examinations and visiting the dentist. But did you know there could be a link between migraines and hearing loss and that, if left untreated, migraines could permanently alter your hearing? Scientists believe that when a migraine occurs, the small hairs in the inner ear are damaged due to lack of circulation. These hairs convert sound vibrations into electric signals to the brain and without adequate blood supply, they can become damaged and die. Audiologist at Imperial Hearing in Poole, Tim Cleave said, "Recent studies conclude that a large proportion of migraine sufferers have one or more abnormalities with their cochlea function and auditory pathways. By getting your hearing regularly checked we can monitor any changes and treat them accordingly." Book a FREE hearing consultation at your local Imperial Hearing centre: 01202 732300 or visit imperialhearing.com

New planning guidelines for National Park The size of new homes and the scale and location of new housing are to be restricted in the New Forest National Park area. The Park Authority’s Local Plan includes; more support for affordable housing and commoners’ dwellings, safeguarding areas of tranquillity, and protecting the Forest’s landscape character, trees and historic environment. Existing planning policies to protect, maintain and enhance nationally, regionally and locallyimportant sites and features of the natural environment – including habitats and species of biodiversity importance, geological features and the water environment – are retained in the new Plan. In addition to restricting the size of new homes the Plan includes: •

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A small increase in housing development from the current average of around 25 homes a year to 40 per year. Most will be on sites which have existing planning consents, on brownfield sites or ‘windfall’ development which becomes available unexpectedly. A lower site size threshold for new developments (three dwellings or more) to make provision for affordable housing. It also proposes keeping the existing policy that all homes on ‘rural exception’ sites should be affordable. Allocating a few sites for new housing for the first time since the National Park was designated in 2005. On these new housing sites, the authority will be seeking a significant proportion of affordable housing to meet local housing needs.

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Restricting any developments of care homes to cater for local people, rather than external demand.

Oliver Crosthwaite-Eyre, New Forest National Park Authority chairman, said, “Our planning policies play a key role in protecting the National Park’s special qualities and wildlife, supporting the local economy and conserving the distinctive New Forest character of our villages and rural areas. “This updated Local Plan is an extremely significant step for the Authority and allows our planning service to continue its important work in helping to protect and enhance the Forest for future generations.”

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ringwood news Continued from front cover

ACTION-PACKED RINGWOOD CARNIVAL Ringwood Carnival’s procession led by the ‘royal family’ in a carriage drawn by Sampsons magnificent Percherons took over an hour to pass through the town. It was filled with colour, action and music including the deafening sound of drums, which could be heard long before the drummers appeared. The evening procession added atmosphere and the party continued all day and into the night on the Bickerley. Founded in 1928, and run every year since 1950, the carnival is Ringwood’s biggest and most important community event. Organised by Ringwood Carnival Society, it raises money for charities and good causes.

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A Day of Changing Fortunes By Edward Holmes, Forest Edge and Meesons Solicitors It was a lovely sunny day and I was cutting the grass. Suddenly there was a bang and the lawnmower cut out. I went into the house to discover that the electrics had stopped working and with my very limited knowledge, realised I had tripped the fuse box. After locating the fuse box, I discovered that the fridge-freezer had also stopped working. I then spent the next few hours trying to work out what had caused the problem. I decided it was the fridgefreezer, so emptied it of all those things you buy and think you are going to eat but never do. After that, I took the remaining contents to my mother’s house and proceeded to stuff her freezer full. At this point, while I was thinking of cost, I believe my wife was looking forward to getting a new fridge freezer. I returned to the house and tried to get the lawnmower to work. I replaced the fuse and plugged the mower into a different socket. Neither helped. At this point my wife was even more pleased because she thought we were going to get a

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VIEWPOINT October 2019

new lawnmower as well. I was still determined to have one more go: fitted another plug, played with the wires (don’t do this at home) and tried a new fuse and different socket. The lawnmower sparked and suddenly burst into life. I had been handling live wires. At this point, I believe my wife thought that she would need a new husband. Having kept myself alive and managed to get the lawnmower working, I returned my attentions to the fridge-freezer and was successful. It had only taken four hours, but apparently that is quite a long time if your wife is going through a roller coaster of emotions. Fortunately, from my point of view, she ended the day as she started it, namely with an old fridge-freezer, a fairly old lawnmower and a not so young husband. How pleased she was, or was not, was hard to tell. At Forest Edge and Meesons we appreciate legal issues can be stressful and sparks may fly. We are here to help. Please contact us for all your legal needs. See the adjacent advertisement for details.

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ringwood news

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

Charity works to benefit babies with brain injury Southampton Hospital Charity (SHC) has secured funding for a research project into neonatal hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE) - a type of brain injury that develops in babies when there is a lack of oxygen reaching the brain around the time of birth. HIE affects around one to three in 1,000 newborns in the UK and symptoms include the babies suffering seizures, struggling with breathing and having low blood pressure. The immediate treatment includes cooling the baby’s body temperature to 33.5 over 72 hours, which is delivered on specialist neonatal intensive care units such as the one in Southampton. This improves survival rates and reduces the risk of severe neurological impairment, such as cerebral palsy and severe developmental delay, but affected babies remain at risk of more subtle problems, which can affect school progress and emotional function. Dr Brigitte Vollmer, associate professor of Neonatal and Paediatric Neurology at Southampton Children’s Hospital commented, “With the funding we’ve received from SHC’s supporters, we have a real chance at improving the prediction of long term outcomes for the affected babies and their families by finding better tools that we can use within this period.”

Pearly celebration Volunteers from The Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch hospitals were treated to a Pearly Kings and Queens-themed tea party recently to thank them for their support. The party coincided with the 30th anniversary of the hospital. If you would like to become a volunteer, please contact 01202 704690 or email proudtovolunteer@rbch.nhs.uk

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

Hospital to combat climate change Staff at the Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch hospitals are working with the Centre for Sustainable Healthcare on a series of projects to reduce the environmental impact of clinical services. The projects form part of the Trust’s ‘Green Ward Competition’ which runs over 11 weeks and sees hospital teams come together to make changes that will reduce the carbon footprint of their service, benefit patients and save money. One project is being led by the Thoracic Department who have identified that certain inhalers can emit greenhouse gases. They plan to increase awareness of correct inhaler disposal with patients and ensure that parts which can be recycled are easily identified.

Laura Dale, sustainability manager for RBCH, said, “It’s been fantastic seeing how staff have embraced this new challenge - they know their services best and change and improvement should be led by them.”

Staff from the Thoracic Department

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Mayor attends anniversary Burley’s Home Care recently hosted an anniversary celebration with a very special guest; Ringwood Mayor, Tony Ring. Ten years ago the company was started by husband and wife Paul and Carly Burley, who have many years’ combined experience of home care, and know the difference that specialised care can make to a person and their family. To celebrate reaching a decade of providing care services to people in Verwood, Ringwood and the surrounding areas, the couple gathered a number of staff and clients together for a special event to say thank you to all those involved with the company. The event signified a double celebration for the business, after Burley’s Home Care was named as one of the top 20 home care groups in the UK, as part of the homecare. co.uk Home Care Awards for 2019.

Paul Burley said, “Our award-winning success is entirely down to our staff; they are all dedicated professionals and it’s really humbling to see how much they put into making other people’s lives better on a daily basis.” Ringwood Mayor Tony Ring said: “I am delighted to be able to support a local business in celebrating such a special day.”

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health and care

Harry Redknapp opens hospital entrance

L-R Sandra Redknapp, Harry Redknapp and Debbie Fleming, Poole and Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch hospitals chief executive

Harry and Sandra Redknapp have unveiled a commemorative plaque to mark the opening of Poole Hospital’s new entrance. The former Premier League football manager was the event’s guest of honour with his wife along with Sir Keith Pearson, non-executive chairman of Noviniti, the company that developed the facility. Mayor of Poole, Marion Le Poidevin, revealed a blue plaque in honour of Lady Wimborne, Lady Cornelia Guest, who founded the original hospital. The new main entrance, which provides additional services for patients, staff and visitors, includes a new link corridor that enables patients to be transferred with improved comfort, efficiency and dignity. Harry Redknapp said, “A year or so ago, when Sandra was very ill, she had sepsis and got rushed in here by ambulance. “Without this hospital being here we would have been in desperate trouble. I can’t thank Poole Hospital enough.

“The hospital is going onwards and upwards; it’s so important to the people in this area.” The event is part of celebrations recognising 50 years since Her Majesty the Queen opened the new hospital.

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Your health affects everything you do Aches, pains and illness can affect us at any time of our lives. That’s why at Alchemy Health Clinic in Wimborne, it’s no surprise that patients range in age from new born babies to a 104-year-old. For over 37 years, Alchemy Health Clinic has been offering natural health care in our community by experienced practitioners. These include chiropractic, homeopathy, physiotherapy, reflexology and counselling. Focus is on healthcare without side effects and treatments are tailored for each individual’s needs. To support continued good health, Alchemy also offers a range of enjoyable classes including Pilates, Yoga, Meditation, Birthing and Vegan/Vegetarian Cookery. This month, Alchemy opens its doors for a special OPEN DAY event, which invites you to come and discover what the clinic has on offer and enjoy taster sessions absolutely FREE! Please see the adjacent advert for more details.

seeking the cure, became a powerful influence within my own practice. I cannot recommend Nashir and his team too highly.” Dr Keith Glennis-Smith Consultant Anaesthetist (now retired)

Why choose Alchemy? “Four generations of my family have been treated – my parents, children, grandchildren have all been patients and have been kept working, gardening and playing sports, even rugby! – into their 60s.” C Harding “Alchemy’s holistic approach to treating disease, by using methods of healing rather than Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news please mention VIEWPOINT Magazine when you contact our advertisers

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

Your way to better health Residents of Dorset, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole are being invited to attend their free NHS Health Check this autumn. This will tell them whether they are at higher risk of getting health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease and stroke. People may have already been sent letters inviting them for an NHS Health Check from their local provider but they don’t need a letter to book an appointment. Anyone aged 40-74, who hasn’t had an NHS Health Check in the last five years and who hasn’t got an existing condition such as heart disease, diabetes or kidney disease or had a stroke is eligible for a health check. The appointment will take no longer than 30 minutes and residents will be asked some questions about their health and the health of their family. During the appointment people will have their height and weight measured, blood pressure read and a free cholesterol check. To find out more about health checks and for a list of providers visit: www. publichealthdorset.org.uk/yourhealth/nhs-health-checks/.

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Pirates donate plunder for cancer patients New furniture has been donated to Poole Hospital’s Dorset Cancer Centre by two local groups of budding buccaneers, who commandeered a pirate ship to raise funds. Poole Gig Rowing Club and Wareham Wednesdays fundraised earlier this year by dressing as pirates, and ‘invading’ Wareham harbour by throwing water balloons and squirting passers-by with water cannons. Money was raised with a charge to board the boat, a raffle, a bar and donation buckets. This new furniture is raised higher than the current chairs so patients and their families will be more comfortable when using the waiting area. This is the second year in a row that the two groups have provided items for cancer patients and hospital staff after fans, a microwave, heat blankets and a TV were donated in 2018. The furniture is also for the centre’s satellite unit at Wareham Community Hospital. Suzanne Neville, chemotherapy support worker at Poole Hospital, a member of the rowing club who helped organise the donation said, “It’s great that we’ve once again been able to provide some little extra amenities for cancer patients at the hospital. “The fans that we had installed last year have made patients much more comfortable on the ward, especially in the summer months.”

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health and care

Refresher cycle sessions Dorset Council recently ran a one hour adult refresher cycle training session in Dorchester and the authority is considering running similar sessions in other areas. If you have a location in mind, send an email to travelchoice@dorsetcc.gov.uk.

A charity golf day held at Parley Court Golf Club raised £1,440.88 for Christchurch-based Macmillan Caring Locally

Wimborne and Ferndown Lions Club hosted a fun day for children with disabilities and their carers at Avon Heath Country Park. Other Lions clubs taking part were from Wareham, Blandford, Southbourne, Boscombe, Poole and Bournemouth. -| Advertisement feature |-

Learning to Swim – an essential life skill. Most of us recognise that swimming is an important life skill, and with drowning still being one of the most common causes of accidental death in children in the UK, swimming is usually top of the list of extra-curricular activities. But did you know there are plenty of other great reasons why children should learn to swim? 1. It’s fun. Children love the water and all Ferndown Leisure's lessons follow the Swim England National Teaching Plan that advocates learning through fun activities and challenges. 2. It has numerous health benefits including improving cardiovascular fitness, strength, balance and flexibility. 3. It provides challenges and rewards, therefore promoting self-confidence. Remember how Olympic Champion,

Adam Peaty, reflected on his time learning to swim and getting his badges and certificates? 4. It opens up a whole range of opportunities to try different activities: Scuba Diving, Kayaking, Triathlons, Surfing and many more. Plus, there are the obvious holiday benefits of pools, beaches and waterparks. Spaces are now available on the Learn to Swim Programme, so whatever your motivation, get in touch to see how your child can become water safe and learn a lifelong skill they will never forget. For more information about swimming at Ferndown Leisure Centre please contact the swim team on 01202 877468 or visit www.ferndownleisurecentre.co.uk

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| 17

Squaring up to climate emergency Report by Helen Stanley and Janine Pulford, photographs by Tom Scrase

Global Climate Strike rallies took place around the world on 20 September.

Myriam San Marco

Hundreds of people attended a rally in Bournemouth Square, organised by two girls who have been holding demonstrations in the town every month since February. Aged 11 and 12, the girls, Izzy Lindsey-Clark and Natalia Blichowsha, and their friends, have been inspired by the Swedish teenage environmental campaigner Greta Thunberg, whose message has struck a chord with children around the world. Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Youth Strike 4 Climate was formed earlier this year and like Greta, the girls are calling on governments, corporations and adults to take action now to try and halt damaging climate change. The Bournemouth rally formed one of the ‘strike’ days from school and involved hundreds of school age children and students. It was part of the Global Climate Strike day of action which saw hundreds of thousands of people from New York to Brisbane march to put pressure on their governments to listen to the concerns of the young, and cut carbon emissions to help safeguard the planet and their futures. Young and old, many waving banners and placards, began gathering in Bournemouth Square from 11am and at its peak the crowd numbered about 500. There were speeches, chanting, poetry and singing and at 1pm alarm bells on mobile phones went off in a wake-up call to politicians and big business. Both girls spoke eloquently and passionately to the crowd about why they felt the need to take action. They felt they had to strike because of central and local governments’ continued lack of any real action on cutting carbon emissions. People in the crowd were invited to take the microphone. For two hours speakers aged from 8 to 80 talked about why they felt compelled to attend the rally and added to the calls for urgent action from the UK government and big business. Speakers included poet laureate for Bournemouth, Myriam San Marco, and her daughter Emmanuelle who read a moving poem about climate change. One woman said she was there because she feared what sort of life her grandchildren might have in the future while a representative from a Bournemouth faith group called on people of all religions to take the schoolchildren’s message back to their congregations. The girls’ argument was that while last spring, both the UK government and the council declared a climate emergency, no actual policies appear to have been implemented. Meanwhile licences for fracking have been issued and oil exploration is still going ahead in places like Surrey and even as close

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to home as the Purbecks. On 1 May the UK Parliament declared an environment and climate emergency.

What your local councils are doing

Locally, Dorset Council declared a climate emergency on 16 May and established a Climate Change Executive Advisory Panel in July, which met on 13 September to listen to members from Extinction Rebellion and discuss progress with plans to tackle climate change. Hampshire County Council declared a climate emergency on 17 June, stating it has been tackling climate issues for many years. Leader of the Council, Keith Mans, said: “…In Hampshire, this means not only building on our achievements in reducing carbon emissions in recent years, but also being absolutely clear on effective actions we can take to reduce our carbon footprint and make Hampshire more resilient to the effects of climate change already in the system. “Our aim is to leave the county in a strong and sustainable position for future generations – and these issues are well expressed in the work of our Hampshire 2050 Commission, as well as elsewhere in existing strategies.” And BCP Council declared a climate emergency on 16 July, pledging to make BCP Council and its operations carbon neutral by 2030, and to work with the wider community to look at how early the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole region can be made carbon neutral, ahead of the UK target of 2050. Members of the council have also called on Westminster to provide the powers and resources to help make the 2030 target possible. Councillor Felicity Rice, cabinet member responsible for Climate Change & Environment, said, “…We are not simply declaring a climate emergency – we are agreeing to the production of a 10-year plan with quantifiable targets and actions required to achieve them. This is a hugely ambitious target and a challenge that cannot be underestimated, but we must look now at how we go about reversing decades of global environmental decline as a result of human activity.” A full report outlining the actions BCP Council will take to address this emergency from 2020–2030, including clear quantifiable milestones, will be submitted to Full Council in December. For the latest update see page 39. The Global Climate Strike was organised ahead of the planned UN Climate Action Summit in New York on 23 September when Greta Thunberg addressed members of the United Nations, delivering a passionate and angry plea for immediate action to halt damaging global warming.

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education

Education in brief Year 8 pupils from Castle Court School at Corfe Mullen have carried out their tenth annual Sleep Out, raising £1,100 and increasing awareness of BCHA. To date the school has raised £10,000. Pictured constructing their cardboard sleeping boxes are from the left, Ed, Guy, Eddie and George.

Dramatic turnaround for middle school A school in Verwood, which was placed in Special Measures by Ofsted in February 2017, has been declared ‘Good’ across the board following a SIAMs (Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools) inspection. This was the first time Emmanuel CE Middle School had received an independent inspection since joining Wimborne Academy Trust (WAT) in January last year as a sponsored academy. Inspector Lizzie McWhirter said, “Being part of WAT has enabled Emmanuel Middle School to be on a transformational journey, whilst preserving its uniqueness, stirred by its vision and values. “Pupils are passionate about the phenomenal change in the school, which is enabling them to live out the three values of

excellence, endeavour and enjoyment.” The inspector said investing in existing and new leaders has resulted in rising standards and rapid improvement, especially in Key Stage 2 results. Success stories include pupils who have been excluded becoming subject ambassadors. Ron Jenkinson, executive headteacher of Emmanuel, said, “This success is down to the dedication of our staff, the support from Wimborne Academy Trust and the hard work and enthusiasm of all our pupils.” CEO of Wimborne Academy Trust, Liz West, added: “It’s been an honour having Emmanuel join our family of schools, and we knew that with direction and strategic support the school would soon be on the road to rapid improvement.”

A school that was completely destroyed when hurricanes Irma and Maria swept through the British Virgin Islands in October 2017 is being reconstructed by a consortium of UK businesses. Christchurch-based John Reid & Sons Ltd (REIDsteel) is leading the project to rebuild the Enis Adams Primary School on Tortola. Pictured is Hesketh Newton, managing director of Newton Construction Co Ltd, surveying work inside the new school.

Public school of the year Canford School took home the prestigious ‘Public School of the Year’ trophy at the annual Tatler Schools Awards held at the Landmark Hotel in Marylebone recently.

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education

Shared Forest Project

Children from local schools are learning about the Forest and its fascinating commoning system, thanks to a special education toolkit. Nearly 3,000 children and young people have learnt about commoning and the New Forest over the past three years thanks to the Shared Forest project, with over 400 pupils having received their New Forest badges since the toolkit’s launch in October 2018. The toolkit for primary aged children has been designed by local commoner, teacher and outdoor learning expert Lyndsey Stride and is full of curriculum-linked resources to support teachers, parents and group leaders when teaching about the special habitats, culture and history of the New Forest. Children receive the sew-on badge to celebrate their learning once they have completed some of the activities within the toolkit. Head Agister, Jonathan Gerrelli, said, “Our local children are the ones who will be using and enjoying the Forest for years to come. And for them to understand and learn to love and respect it, they need to learn how it works and about the animals, and the people who own them. There may well be some who are inspired to become commoners of the future.” Lyndsey said, “We live in such an amazing place. It is really important that all local children have the opportunity to learn about the Forest. I hope that the toolkit will make it easier for teachers to incorporate learning about the New Forest across the whole curriculum. We have 1,000 badges to give to schools, cubs, brownies, and other groups who use the toolkit

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to teach their students about commoning and the Forest.” Tony Hockley, New Forest Commoners Defence Association Chairman, said: “People often ask us what we are doing for the next generation. We hope the toolkit will be used by local schools and youth groups to inspire our

local children to love and care for the Forest.” The toolkit and other commoning activities for schools and groups are available to download for free at www.realnewforest. org/education-toolkit

Year Two Pupils from St Michael and All Angels CE Infant School, Lyndhurst, with (L-R) Head Teacher Tina Daniels, Tony Hockley, Jonathan Gerelli, Lyndsey Stride, Rachael Gallagher, Zoe Cox in October 2018.

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education -| Advertisement feature |-

Outstanding results for a third year in a row at Ferndown Upper School

Ferndown Upper School pupils looking delighted with their exam results

After receiving the highest results in Dorset for the last two years (combined GCSE Progress 8, A Level and Applied General value added scores), Ferndown Upper students have achieved another outstanding set of results this summer, which should now make it three years in a row. For GCSE, the school’s Progress 8 result is predicted to be +0.60, which should make Ferndown Upper School the highest achieving school in Dorset when the performance tables are released this October. • 75% of students gained a grades 9-4 (A** to C) • 50% of students gained grades 9-5 (A** to B) • 18% of students gained the highest grades 9-7 (A** to A) Other subject’s highlights were 100% grades 9-4 in Engineering, Italian, Chinese, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Finance and Ethics - with French and Ethics having over half their students receiving the highest grades 9-7. Other highflying subjects were DT 89%, PE 87%, English 80% and Maths 74%. At A level, 35% of students received

the top grades of A* or A and other highlights include: • High achievement in the STEM subjects, particularly Mathematics, where 85% of students received grades A*-B. This figure is 100% for Further Maths students. • The Creative Arts results were again superb, with the highlight being 100% A*-B for Textiles and 90% for Fine Art. • Other standout subjects were English Language and Literature, History, Music, Physics and Sociology, where 60% of the students received the top grades A*-B. • Vocational subjects also performed very highly (CACHE, Sport, Media and HSC), scoring a Value Added score of +0.70, which means every student performed almost a grade better than predicted by the government.

Headteacher Philip Jones stated,

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank both the students and their teachers for all of their hard work and dedication. May I wish all of our students all the very best for the future? This is now the third year in a row of outstanding results and I am very proud to be the Headteacher of such a highly performing school. It is no surprise that we are oversubscribed in every year group.”

For more information about the school, visit www.fernup.dorset.sch. uk or call 01202 871243.

Honey Andrews

Ethan Griffin

Jenna Seaton

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Profile – Spencer Flower, leader of Dorset Council By Marilyn Barber If you take early retirement you might expect your life to become less hectic, but that hasn’t been the case for Councillor Spencer Flower, who became leader of the new Dorset Council this year. “I work 70 hours a week, as I feel that everything has to be 100 per cent. Leaders can be criticised so I make sure I am well briefed,” said Spencer, at an interview at the authority’s office in Allenview House, Wimborne. On three or four days of the week he travels to Dorchester, where he works out of the former West Dorset District Council offices in South Walks. He also has a study at home. Spencer has his roots in Dorset as he was born in Gillingham, with his family subsequently moving to Weymouth. He embarked on an engineering apprenticeship before re-locating to London where he stayed for 24 years. His career path was meteoric and nine promotions saw him ending up as MD of the company. “I can read a balance sheet and this has certainly helped in local government,” he said. “I’m able to ask the right questions and have a good memory for acronyms.” Spencer moved back to Dorset in 1988, living in Chalbury Common before making his home in Verwood in 2007. In 2010 he married Toni Coombs, who is also a Dorset Council councillor. He had a son and daughter, but sadly his daughter died of stomach cancer three years ago. “It was very tragic, she was only 48. I deal with it, but I will never get over it,” he said. He has two grandchildren. Spencer has been involved in local government for 27 years in various roles. In 1992 he was elected to Knowlton Parish Council. From 1999 to 2019 he served on East Dorset District Council, as Leader from 20082013 and again from 2016-2019. Representing Verwood, he was elected to Dorset County Council in 2005 and became leader in 2013, before stepping down. He took over as leader of the newly formed

82-member Dorset Council in May this year with just a fourseat Conservative majority. There are 43 Conservatives, 29 Lib Dems, four members of the Green Party, four independents and two Labour members, “I am proud to be leading and establishing Dorset Council and it gives me the chance to use my management knowledge. I need to understand all the services it offers. I want it to have a cando culture.” Councillor Spencer Flower When the setting up of two unitary authorities in Dorset to replace the existing nine councils was first mooted, East Dorset District Council, together with Christchurch Borough Council and Purbeck District Council, voted against the proposal. “We were in partnership with Christchurch and it worked well as we saved £1.2million a year. However, we realised that local government had to change because of reduced funding.” He added that he was proud that EDDC didn’t have to cut services. “I wasn’t elected to cut services.” Spencer takes questions at the full council meetings. “And if I can’t answer the question I refer it to the Cabinet for a full answer.” He appreciates that his job is a challenge, but he says it is important to have cross party involvement. “I am a principled person and feel strongly that negativity gets you nowhere.” With the present situation in the House of Commons you wouldn’t think anyone would

want to be an MP, but Spencer admitted that if he was 20 years younger he would have liked to have stood for Parliament. Do Spencer and Toni, who are also both members of Verwood Town Council, spend their spare time discussing council matters? “We do have a rule not to, and I get a look if I start dumping issues on Toni. However, there are occasions when we share things. Fortunately as a fellow councillor Toni understand the hours I work.” Something Spencer hopes to set up in the future is live streaming of meetings. “We did start to do it when we had the Shadow authority, but the sound quality was poor so we stopped it. However, we hope to have a good system in place by next May for streaming the Full Council, the Cabinet and Overview Committee meetings in order to make the authority more accessible.” With his busy life Spencer does manage to make some time for his hobby of golf, but clearly he is happy to devote so much time to being Leader of Dorset Council.

Lewis Manning sells hospice to Care South Lewis-Manning Hospice Care are relocating to central Poole, following the sale of their building at Crichel Mount to local charity and care home operator, Care South. Jeremy Allin, chairman of the hospice, said, “Lewis-Manning Hospice Care are sincerely grateful to Care South for granting a license to enable us to stay at Crichel Mount for up to six months, while adjustments are made to our new home at Longfleet in order to make it fully fit for our purposes. We hope to make the move into Poole early in 2020.” Lewis-Manning Hospice Care plan to continue delivering their well-established day hospice and clinics in Poole, whilst expanding their services, working alongside community hospitals, care homes and GP practices. The plans include the opening of new day hospice services, as well as better breathing clinical

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services one day per week in local towns, starting in Wareham and Swanage. Clare Gallie, CEO Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, said, “The move follows the difficult decision in April this year to close our six-bed inpatient unit (which cost us £1.2 million per year to operate) due to funding sustainability in an area where other local hospices that are largely funded by the NHS are providing similar bedded services. Our unique day hospice and support clinics remain fully open for people needing end of life support and together with our staff and Board of Trustees we are now developing our three-year strategy.” Clare continues, “It costs nearly £1.3 million to run our charitable hospice each year; we receive just 20 per cent of our income from the NHS.” She is asking the people of

East Dorset to support delivery of the new services with a “gift of just £5 per month, by asking the companies that they work at to support us, or by holding a fundraising event.” Eugine Yafele, chief executive of Dorset Healthcare, said, “We are delighted to be working with Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, by delivering more end of life services across our community and there will be clear benefits to local people at the end of their lives.” Felicity Irwin, chairman of Care South, said, “Care South will ultimately open a dedicated residential care home on the site for frail elderly residents. This is an acquisition which is very pleasing and we will continue the association by it being known as ‘Marjorie House’ – Marjorie Lewis-Manning being the founding benefactor of the Lewis-Manning charity.”

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verwood news

New Minister for Verwood URC

L-R, Reverends Clare Downing, James Whately, Dave Harkison and Margaret Evans

The Reverend James Whately has been inducted to the Wessex Synod and the shared ministry at Parkstone, Verwood and St Martin’s West Moors, United Reformed Churches. The service at Verwood United Reformed Church was led by Rev Clare Downing,

moderator Wessex Synod. The presentation was made by the interim moderator Rev Margaret Evans, and the address was given by Rev Dave Harkison. The statement of faith and order of the United Reformed Church was given by Dr Richard Hall.

Rev James Whately was welcomed by a number of dignitaries, including Spencer Flower, leader of Dorset Council and the mayors of Verwood and Poole, together with a numbers of officers and elders from the three churches.

Choice of activities If you’re looking for an activity in Verwood, why not pop along to Verwood Bowls Club. There is a progressive whist drive every Monday at 2pm, £3 entry with cash prizes; short mat bowls on Wednesday afternoons at 2pm and the occasional social evening event such as a quiz, dominoes and a beetle drive. For an application form, contact Norman Pearce on 01202 823162 or email npearce@ verwoodbowlingclub.co.uk

Busy autumn programme for TG Verwood Afternoon TG has a busy autumn programme of meetings and activities. The Entertainers group will be performing another popular Murder Mystery evening in October, followed by the annual Soup & Pud lunch. The guild’s Christmas Lunch will be held at the Remedy Oak Golf Club at the end of November. At a recent meeting, Alan Saunders gave a talk on his time as a Yeoman of the Guard, which has been in existence since 1485. For Guild info ring 01425 475785.

Form new friendships If you are aged 60 an over and would like to make new friends, why not join Verwood Community Group? They meet from 2-4pm on the last Thursday of the month at the Heritage Centre. Activities include games, films, keep fit and outings. And it is just £1.50 per session.

Secretarial volunteer needed The committee for the Verwood Memorial Hall is looking for a new volunteer to take on the role of secretary. Responsibilities include correspondence and minutes with skills needed being administration, office procedures, computer systems and emails. Training is available. Contact Ann Abernethie on 01202 827455 or email ann@annabernethie.plus.com.

Help for dementia sufferers Carers and those living with memory loss are invited to a drop in afternoon held at the Verwood library on the second Tuesday of every month from 2-3.30pm. It is organised by The Verwood & 3LX Dementia Friendly Community Association.

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Service marks the largest airborne operation in history Report by Marilyn Barber, photographs by Tom Scrase The town of Wimborne Minster has always risen to the occasion when it comes to commemorating historic milestones and 2 October was no exception. The Mayor of Wimborne, Shane Bartlett, organised a commemoration service in Wimborne Minster church to mark Operation Market Garden - one of the largest Allied operations of the Second World War - which took place from 17-24 September 1944. ‘Garden’ was the codename given to the British 2nd Army – 30

Corps totalling more than 100,000 men. ‘Market’ was the airborne part of the operation. It comprised of the American 101st Airborne Division landing at Eindhoven by parachute and glider. The American 82nd Airborne Division would land around bridges at Grave and Nijmegen. Finally, the British 1st Airborne Division, along with the 1st Polish Independent Parachute Brigade, would land 64 miles behind enemy lines at Arnhem. Their job was to seize both the road and rail bridges

The Mayor and Mayoress with veterans including those from the Parachute Regiment together with town crier Chris Brown

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and open the way to the Lower Rhine and thus into the gateway to Germany. Total allied casualties for the whole operation were estimated at 16,805. In his cry before the service on the Minster Green, town crier Chris Brown said, “10,000 Allied service men flew from nearby Tarrant Rushton aerodrome. The operation was not successful and 7,500 were either killed or made prisoners of war.” The commemoration service was led by Rev Andrew Rowland, rector of Wimborne Minster and Rev William French, chaplain to Wimborne Royal British Legion. The organist was Chris Dowie. Rev Rowland welcomed dignitaries including The Lord Lieutenant of Dorset, Angus Campbell; General Sir Geoffrey Howlett, who from 1986-1989 was Commander-in-Chief of Allied Forces in Northern Europe; The High Sheriff of Dorset, Philip Warr and civic leaders from across Dorset. In his homily, Rev French said the operation was “a heroic feat of arms.” The congregation filed out of the church to the sounds of the piper, Richard Rowland, who always plays at the town’s Remembrance Sunday services. After the service, wreaths were

General Sir Geoffrey Howlett lays a wreath at the war memorial

laid by the Mayor of Wimborne, General Sir Geoffrey Howlett and Dorset mayors. Shane Bartlett had been keen to organise the service, as his grandfather Douglas was in the 1st Airborne Division at Operation Market Garden. Former mayor of Wimborne, John Burden’s father Edward was also in the 1st Airborne division. “He was captured twice, but escaped,” said John. “We didn’t know that he had taken part in Operation Market Garden until after he died 24 years ago. He never talked about it.” There was a retiring collection for Combat Stress. Several Second World War vehicles gathered in Wimborne Square to mark the occasion.

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Congratulations Ferndown! Plastic Free Ferndown is celebrating new plastic-free status. It has been awarded ‘Plastic Free Communities’ Status by marine conservation charity, Surfers Against Sewage (SAS), in recognition of the work it has done to help reduce the impact of single-use plastic (SUP) on the environment.

erndown has joined over 600 communities across the UK that are leading the way to tackle throwaway plastic at source. The town can now celebrate achieving its new status and would like residents to join the party. An event is being planned and is likely to be linked to this year’s Christmas event in Penny’s Walk in November. More details will follow. Local leads Janine, Ben and Louis Pulford wanted to join the plastic free campaign because they felt passionate about the cause. They wanted to help reduce local consumption of SUPs as well as highlighting the campaign through their local community magazines Viewpoint and 4Dorset. Registering with the SAS Plastic Free Communities movement, the three of them had to set up a community-led steering group which implemented the SAS Plastic Free Schools education programme; obtained local council commitment and worked with local businesses, key organisations and community groups to minimise the amount of disposable plastics they use. Plastic Free Champions “Our local community really got behind us,” said Janine, who is also the editor of 4Dorset and Viewpoint magazines. “Businesses were particularly keen and the 15 Plastic Free Champions we have on board have replaced or eliminated at least three SUPs each. “Ferndown Pharmacy swapped plastic prescription bags for paper bags, they did the same with their bulk order carrier bags. Where plastic bags are needed for certain medicines, they swapped plastic for biodegradable material. Just think if every chemist in the country followed suit,” said Janine. “These easy swaps would remove millions of tonnes of single use plastic from our environment.” Some businesses found it harder than others. “We admire our champions for being so resourceful and overcoming what may seem impossible hurdles,” said Janine. “Ferndown Florist and Xerocad were two businesses that had to really research alternatives.” Community Allies Plastic Free Ferndown has also linked up with community allies. Among those who

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have joined the campaign in force are Ferndown Town Council, The Barrington Centre, Ferndown upper and first schools, The Recycling Store, St Mary’s Church and Friends of Uddens and Cannon Hill Woodlands. Not an easy journey On behalf of PFF Steering Committee, Janine said, “We won’t pretend it’s been an easy journey, but the support has been overwhelming and the steering committee has met regularly and worked hard to achieve this status for Ferndown.” A united network The Surfers Against Sewage Plastic Free Community network aims to free the places where we live from SUPs. Using a five-point plan the aim is to empower communities to kick-start local grassroots action, which can then be built upon. The marine conservation charity, based in St Agnes in Cornwall, says it wants to unite communities to tackle avoidable plastic from the beach all the way back to the brands and businesses who create it. It says it is not about removing all plastic from our lives, but kicking our addiction to throwaway plastic and changing the system that produces it. Rachel Yates, SAS Plastic Free Communities project officer, said: “It’s great to see the work that Ferndown has done to reduce the availability of avoidable plastics, raise awareness and encourage people to refill and reuse.” For more information visit www. plasticfree.org.uk and www.sas.org.uk Plastic Free Ferndown is still looking for more businesses and community allies to join its successful campaign and help make Ferndown a more environmentally friendly place to live. New committee members are welcome.

A community in action outside the Barrington Centre

Contact Plastic Free Ferndown: Ben, Louis and Janine Pulford, community leads: 01202 870270 Visit Facebook: Plastic Free Ferndown group, and page

Ben Pulford with volunteer Nadia Abdulgani at the fete on the field

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| 27

! e m i t y t r a p s ’ t I

foodie news / most of us are sorry for what we said when we were hungry.

By Marilyn Barber

You may not ‘wish it could be Christmas everyday’ but it will be here soon enough, and if you haven’t booked your dinners and parties don’t delay as local companies report that their calendars are filling up faster than you can say ‘mince pies’.

Let’s look at the different options you could consider. A group of friends

Meeting for a lunch or dinner in the lead up to Christmas is a great way to catch up with those you might have seen only infrequently during the year. Either a pub or a cosy restaurant would make ideal venues. And for a bit of fun, why not have a modest dress code, such as asking everyone to wear a bit of eco glitter, a head adornment or something in

a particular colour. The venue will usually provide the organiser with a menu and ask diners to book their choices before the day. Now it is a well-known fact that very few of your party will remember their menu choice, so the organiser is advised to keep a record of what everyone has ordered. “Christmas meals can be a nightmare as bookings are made well in advance and most people have no idea what they’ve ordered,” said a waitress from a local hotel. “On one occasion I just managed to retrieve a meal, telling the woman that she hadn’t ordered the turkey at all and was just about to eat someone else’s meal.”

Family

The blissful Christmas Day lunch portrayed in Victorian cards with the hosts dishing up a perfect meal can be a nightmare for those unused to cooking for a big group of people, so why not let a hotel or restaurant do all the hard work. What a treat to wake up on Christmas morning and to know that getting everything

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ready at the same time is someone else’s problem. And it means that instead of getting stressed you can enjoy the family gathering.

Don’t overdo the roasts

The chances are that you will have several roast meals over the Christmas period, so how about choosing a restaurant that serves something more exotic such as Indian or Thai.

Office parties

If there is one minefield in life, it can be the office party. If you work for a big company, the chances are the party will be organised for you, but if your organisation is small, you might like to join other companies in a Christmas party night at a hotel. That way you will probably be able to enjoy Bucks Fizz on arrival, streamers, crackers and most importantly a disco. But whether you are part of a small or a large event, there are one or two tips on how to behave. Don’t drink too

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foodie news much; don’t dress up as though you are going to a nightclub; avoid bad mouthing your colleagues and boss and keep your conversations on a positive note.

Buffet

You tend to think of friends, family and office parties as sit down affairs, but you might consider booking a finger buffet at the hotel of your choice. This is such a good way of ensuring that you get to speak to all the guests, whilst they are enjoying such delicacies as Brie bites, vegetable spring rolls and mini kebabs.

Do-it-yourself

If you’ve decided to hire a hall or to have a party at home, you will need to make the room look festive and welcoming. Think party hats, crackers and novelties. And there is an amazing variety of table decorations available such as mini Christmas trees, bauble trees and even animated reindeer. And if your guests are more on the extrovert side, you could invite them to dress as elves or snowmen!

Allergy alert

If you are organising a ‘do’, make sure you check that you have identified if your guests have any allergies. Restaurants, pubs and hotels are very up to speed on this and can ensure there is something suitable for every diner.

Getting home

Police forces across the country run pre-Christmas and New Year drink driving campaigns, and the Dorset and Hampshire forces are no exception. Don’t take any risks as one drink can so easily lead to another. And although there are usually one or two people who are happy to be the designated drivers, it really isn’t fair to have them motoring all over the area late at night, dropping off their friends and family. A taxi has to be the sensible answer, even if you are teetotal, as it makes the start of the evening a bit special, and ensures you get home safely. But do book well in advance.

e v a H fun.

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

what’s on

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

15 October 7.30pm

Dorset Family History Society meets at St George’s Church Hall, Darby’s Lane, Oakdale, Poole, BH15 3EU. ‘It’s the Way You Tell ‘Em’ by David Gynes. £2 to include refreshments. Everyone welcome. More details on www.dorsetfhs.org. uk or email contact@dorsetfhs. org.uk or Tel 01202 785623.

15-26 October

Dorchester Literary Festival at various venues. Includes presentations by Prue Leith, A N Wilson, Simon Heffer, Dom Joly, Sir Tim Waterstone, Victoria Hislop and Kate Williams. www. dorchesterliteraryfestival.com/.

16 October 10-2pm

As part of Get Online Week, digital champions will be at Ringwood Library to assist with devices including personal phones, tablets and computers. The event is free.

16 and 23 October 2-5pm

Edmondsham House, off B308. Six acres of mature gardens open for NGS. Walled garden and 12th century church to explore.

17 October 2-4 pm

At Ringwood’s Greyfriars Community Centre, Jenny Bluck will talk about ‘Experiences of her 2018 trip with three fellow Trefoilers to set up Guide Groups in more isolated regions of Russia’. More information www. ringwoodu3a.org.uk or call Pete 01425 478077.

18 October 7pm for 7.30pm start Quiz Night at Tarrant Keyneston Village Hall in aid of the Louis Ross Foundation. Entry donation £5 per person, teams of up to eight. Prebooking on 07775 940438 or email: pennyross17@aol.com.

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18 October 10 am for 10.30am

Wimborne U3A Talk, Posted in the Past – Fascinating stories behind some historical postcards. Wimborne Methodist Church, £2 members £3 visitors.

19 October 7.30pm

Bourne2sing male voice choir concert at St Mary’s Church, West Moors, BH22 OJF. Funds to local charities. Tickets from 01202 890098 or possibly at the door. Price includes refreshments.

19 October 7.30pm

Verwood Concert Brass present a concert Best of British at The Hub. Tickets from 01202 828740.

19 October 10-3pm

Open day at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital. Visitors can go behind the scenes in theatres and take part in quizzes and competitions. Health checks and demonstrations.

19 October 11am-3pm

Salamander Cookshop, 57 High Street, Wimborne, local artisan manufacturers Freda and Anna who produce Beeswrap, the eco and reusable alternative to cling film, will explain how it is made and how to use it.

19-26 October

Wimborne Green Festival in the town centre includes Zero Food Waste demo with Lesley Waters, a Green Fair, children’s themed craft activities and Fungi Forays with John Wright of River Cottage.

VIEWPOINT October 2019

20 October 7.30pm

Concert by Hampshire Police Band in Aid of the Poppy Appeal at Ringwood Parish Church. Tickets £9 in advance from Grants in the Furlong, Meeting House & Greyfriars or £10 on the door. Contact Val Aldridge for further details on 01425 47833.

22 October 7.45pm Wimborne Town FC play Dorchester Town at their home ground at Cowgrove Road, behind Wimborne Hospital.

22 October 7.15pm

Bournemouth Electronic Organ Society presents a concert of popular music by DirkJan Ranzijn at Queen Elizabeth’s School, Wimborne. Visitors welcome. £6 payable at door. Info: 01202 895254.

25 October 7pm-9.30pm

Forest Holme Hospice hosts a Halloween Dance-A-thon challenge at The Hamworthy Club near Canford Magna. A number of fun Halloweenthemed instructed dances for people of all ages and abilities. £5. Visit www. forestholmehospice.org.uk/ events or call Forest Holme on 01202 670644.

25-26 October 9.30am-12.30pm

Traidcraft Autumn Event, fairly traded foods, handcrafted home and gift items, Christmas cards / decorations at Verwood United Reformed Church (next to the library). All welcome. Info: 01202 814270.

26 October 12.30pm-4.30pm

Pumpkin Fest at Sturts Farm, West Moors. Tickets include street food, tractor rides, live music and story telling. Children's tickets include a free pumpkin to carve. Adults, £5 if they would like to harvest their own pumpkin.

26 October

Zombie Fest in Poole’s Falkland Square and the Dolphin Shopping Centre. The free-to-enter Zombie Parade will begin at Falkland Square at approximately 4pm and will travel along the high street and end at the Town Quay at 4.45pm. ‘Worst Dressed’ zombies will win prizes.

26 October 9.30am

Walk for Wards organised by Bournemouth Hospital charity in the grounds of Somerley House, near Ringwood. Choice of 1km, 5km or 10km routes. Free tour of the house available on the day. Sign up at bhcharity.org/w4w.

26 October 7.30pm

Wimborne and Ferndown Lions Club race night at the Royal British Legion, Ferndown includes fish and chip supper. Tickets from Ferndown Post Office or phone Joan on 07795 950616. In aid of Lions charities.

26 October 7.30pm

Beaulieu Fireworks Spectacular celebrating the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing. Tickets in advance online before 5pm on 24 October and on arrival from 3pm. Visit www.beaulieu. co.uk/events/beaulieufireworks/ or call 01590 612888.

28 October 2-4pm

Wimborne Methodist Church, King Street, BH21 1DY is holding a Light Celebration, as an alternative to Hallowe’en. Fun for children, from 0-12 years old, with their parents, grandparents or carers. Activities, songs, craft and tea. Free event.

29 October 3pm

Total Pop Party for little ones, featuring the music of Little Mix, Ariana Grande, Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, P!NK, Anne Marie, Panic at the Disco, Dua Lipa, Jonas Brothers, Jess Glynne, The Spice Girls, Justin Bieber and so many more at the Barrington Theatre, Ferndown. Tickets from 01202 894858.

29 October 7.30pm

Nicki Tutton will present ‘Brownsea Island – Dorset Wildlife Trust’ to West Parley Gardening Club at West Parley Memorial Hall. Visitors welcome £2. For further details please contact Malcolm Plascott 01202 950521. Email plascott@outlook.com

1 November 7.30pm

Bourne2Sing male voice choir concert at Crane Valley Golf Club, Verwood, BH31 7LH in aid of Green Cottage Riding for the Disabled. Tickets, £8 per person from Alan on 01202 822064 or at the door. Normally sold out.

1-2 November 9am-5pm

Verwood Charity Jigsaw Fayre at Verwood Methodist Church. Over 700 completed jigsaws displayed and made up for sale. £1 entrance free. Supporting Shelter Box.

9 November 7.30pm ‘Bach to Baroque’ Bournemouth Bach Choir & Orchestra performs Bach Magnificat; Cantata 29 & Kuhnau Magnificat at Wimborne Minster. Tickets: Square Records 01202 883203.

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around & about

Fleabag Review by Louise van Wingerden I went to the Regent Centre in Christchurch to see Fleabag, which was broadcast live from the National Theatre to cinemas nationwide on Thursday 12 September. I was already a fan of the TV series, but hadn’t realised that Fleabag was a play before it was on the TV. Both the play and the TV show were written by the immensely talented Phoebe Waller-Bridge (she also wrote Killing Eve and is now working on the script for the next James Bond film). The play covers the same material as the first TV series, but there is no question of audience ennui, partly because some of the material didn’t make it to television, but mostly because it is such a treat to see WallerBridge performing live. Because, yes – she not only wrote the show, she also performs it. There was just one act, with no interval, and the performance lasted about an hour-and-a-half. Waller-Bridge was word-perfect and her delivery was immaculate. The play is a monologue, the actor assisted only by minimal, infrequent sound effects. In one scene she spoke of the death of a hamster, and such was the quality of the acting and the pathos of the situation described that I felt as upset as if I’d really watched it happen. The essence of the story is simply that the eponymous character, a troubled young woman who has recently lost her mother to cancer and her best friend to suicide, talks the audience through her back-story and the various difficulties she currently faces in life. She is very self-aware; she knows her own shortcomings, she struggles to overcome them, she fails, she somehow lifts herself up and carries on… The character is incredibly brave and funny, and yet the darkness in her life constantly threatens to engulf her. We never learn her real name and yet we never take her at her own estimation of herself. This is no fleabag, this is a hero. Phoebe Waller-Bridge has announced that this run of thirty performances will be the last time she carries out the show on stage. I am so pleased to have been able to see it, thanks to the National Theatre live broadcast. Her performance was truly faultless. However, if you missed it, don’t despair, because you can still watch both series of the TV show on BBC iPlayer. This way, you’ll get to see the supporting characters, who are perfectly cast (watch out for the sexy priest). Confession time – I’ve already started re-watching.

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

Half Term Halloween Fun Join in if you dare at The Furlong shopping centre in Ringwood on Halloween (Thursday 31 October) for a day of fiendish fun for all the family, from 11am - 3pm. This is a free community event for all Furlong customers and is funded by the generosity of all the stores. Activities will include: • Fiendish face painting • Creepy crafts & monster mask making • Halloween hula hooping show • Scary storytelling corner • There will also be a wicked witch on hand with her creepy cauldron of lucky dip delights. Plus, don’t miss the results of the annual store Pumpkin Carving Competition with guest judge, Tony Ring, the Mayor of Ringwood. The judging will be at midday. For more information visit www.thefurlong.co.uk

The Gondoliers went Swimmingly Review by Louise van Wingerden On 28 September, I saw the Christchurch Gilbert and Sullivan society perform The Gondoliers at the Regent Centre in Christchurch. I’m a G and S novice and really wasn’t sure whether I would like light opera but I needn’t have worried. I was enthralled from the moment the curtain rose – the combination of the performers, in their brightly coloured costumes, going about their business with such gusto and the orchestra’s

uplifting music made me laugh out loud. The stage set was simple but effective, and the costumes were bright and colourful as befitted the show. The Gondoliers is basically a comedy of errors but I’m not sure that I would have followed the twists and turns of the plot if I hadn’t bought a programme and read the details of the story in advance. An added advantage was that I could check all the names of the

people I recognised on stage and in the orchestra – I hadn’t realized that there were so many talented musicians in Christchurch. It must be great fun to be part of such an ensemble and I did notice in the programme that the G and S group are always delighted to welcome new members, so do get in touch with them through their website christchurchgands.org.uk if you might be interested in joining.

An eight foot wooden sculpture of a Stone Age man at Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve is now telling stories about the era in exchange for a £1 donation. The donations will help support Bournemouth’s parks and open spaces for future generations and are collected via the independent charity Bournemouth Parks Foundation. Facepainting at the Furlong

Catch Hayfever at the Barrington Ferndown Drama is staging Noel Coward’s classic ‘Hayfever’ at the Barrington Theatre, Ferndown from Wednesday 23 to Saturday 26 October at 7.45pm Hoping for a quiet weekend in the country with some guests, David Bliss, a novelist, and his wife Judith, a retired actress, find it an impossible dream when their high-spirited children Simon and Sorel appear with guests of their own. A houseful of drama waits to be ignited as misunderstanding and tempers flare. The play, which is directed by John Sivewright, is described as ‘Blissfully Bad Behaviour’.

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You can buy tickets online at www.ticketsource. co.uk/ferndown-drama. VIEWPOINT October 2019

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in the home

Converting your loft In Seven ‘easy’ steps By Louise van Wingerden

‘Don’t move, improve!’ is an oft-quoted mantra and converting a loft space can be an excellent way to increase the square footage of your home. It also provides an opportunity to clear out all those items that might have accumulated over the years – children’s old exercise books, unused ornaments, surplus Christmas decorations, or purely sentimental objects.

Only you know what lurks above your head in your loft space – or indeed, you might have forgotten until you finally get all of it out into the light and wonder why you ever kept that collection of old tat. No major home improvement project is straightforward, but it can help to plan ahead and break the necessary work down into manageable steps.

Continued on page 34

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in the home / home is where the heart is . Continued from page 33

Step 2 PERMITTED DEVELOPMENT OR PLANNING PERMISSION? Often, a loft extension will count as permitted development (work that you are allowed to carry out in your home without gaining planning permission). Architectural Technician Charlotte Jaquest, from Bryan Tomlinson Associates, says that permitted development allows for 40 cubic metres for terraced houses or 50 cubic metres for semi- and detached houses of new roof space allowance, as long as there are no roof projections on the front elevation. However, always seek professional advice for your individual project, before you get started. The planning department of your local council are a useful starting point. You can also check with them to see if there are any specific loft conversion rules for your area. Sometimes, special provision must be made depending on where you live. For example, bats are protected by UK law and in certain areas you’ll have to have

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VIEWPOINT October 2019

a preliminary survey to see whether you have bats in your belfry (or rather, loft) and if this is found to be the case you’ll have to take avoidance action. If your loft conversion turns out not to fit within the permitted development criteria, you’ll need planning permission. For this you have to submit a planning application to your local authority, who will either approve it, refuse it, or approve it with conditions. You’ll have to pay a fee and you’ll need professional drawings. It is best to seek advice from the planning authority itself, a local architect or a building surveyor, as this will give you a better chance of success. Once the application is submitted, you might have to wait weeks or months for approval, so be patient. And if it’s refused, don’t despair – you have the option at this stage of amending your drawings to fit in with the requirements of the local authority and reapplying, or even of appealing against the decision.

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in the home

Step 3 GET YOUR PLANS DRAWN UP At this stage, consider what you want from the space. You might not need an architect if your loft conversion falls within permitted development and your plan is simple (if you only want one extra room, for example) but if you want to build more than one room, or to include an en-suite bathroom, an architect might be able to help you make the most of your space. What you will definitely require, whether or not you need planning permission, are calculations from a structural engineer to specify whether, for example, you need additional joists for the new floor or steel supporting beams to bear the roof weight.

Builders need these figures to work with – because you won’t want your roof to collapse or for your perfect new room to fall through the ceiling of the space below. Be aware that when you convert your loft space you’ll need to think about smoke alarms in the hallways and on the landing, as well as fire doors (on all floors if you’re creating a three storey building). Also, a new bedroom will need a ‘means of escape’ window. There are many minor matters to consider too, including such details as where you want to locate light switches in the new space and how many power sockets you’ll require. A good builder should be able to advise on all of this.

Step 4 BUILDING CONTROL If you need planning permission, you need building control in addition and even if you don’t need planning permission, you’ll still need building control. You can get this done by the council or employ a private company and, of course, you’ll need to pay a fee.

The inspectors will visit your property at regular intervals to ensure that the work is being carried out in accordance with the regulations. At the end of the job, the building inspectors will sign off the work and issue you with a certificate to say that it’s been done satisfactorily. Continued on page 36

-| Advertisement feature |-

what are the benefits of having your carpet cleaned? Most people have carpets fitted in their home for comfort and appearance. While carpets are an excellent choice for flooring, it is extremely important that they are properly cared for with routine maintenance. Along with regular vacuuming and spot cleaning, it is equally important to have the carpets professionally cleaned. Not only will a professional clean help to extend the life of a carpet, the homeowner will additionally benefit from:

Healthier environment

Carpet is notorious for housing allergens, dust particles and bacteria, which can increase or lead to breathing problems, such as asthma and allergies. Although vacuuming helps, it doesn’t completely remove the dirt and debris, and over time these accumulate. Professional carpet cleaning helps to remove dust mites, bacteria and other allergens, which ultimately helps the family breathe easier and could help to reduce other health problems.

Improved airflow

Soiled carpets can impede the airflow in the home. As the carpets become clogged with dust, dirt and debris, the airflow can become compromised, especially in areas along the wall where the air in the home needs to be able to move. Rooms are more likely to become unpleasant and stuffy when the carpet is clogged with dirt and dust. Regular vacuuming simply cannot remove all of the debris, which is why carpets should be professionally cleaned annually, thus helping to improve airflow and air quality.

Improved look and feel

Having carpets professionally cleaned will help to improve their look and the feel. As dirt and dust builds up in the fibres, it causes the fibres to become matted, which makes the carpet look old and worn, as well as feel rough and flat, regardless of how much padding is underneath. A professional carpet clean will help to keep the dirt and dust from tearing away at the fibres in the carpet, which ultimately makes them look better and feel softer for a longer period of time. If you want your carpet cleaned please do not hesitate to contact John & Debby Morrow, locally based in Ringwood, for a free no obligation quote on 0800 180 4052. Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news please mention VIEWPOINT Magazine when you contact our advertisers

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in the home / home is where the heart is . Continued from page 35

Step 5 FIND A BUILDER TO CARRY OUT THE WORK Personal recommendations are useful, as are builders with a long history of working in the area, who have a reputation to maintain. Always get a written quotation for the work – in fact, three quotes would be ideal as there can be considerable variation between prices. Once you accept a written quotation, the builder should not deviate from the agreed cost. There are many factors to consider beside price. For example, is the builder a one-man band, or does he work with a large team? This can be important if you want the work to be carried out within a reasonable time-frame.

The best builders are often booked up well in advance, so try not to be in a hurry to get your work done. Once you get your wellconstructed new room or rooms, it will have been worth the wait. Of course, you don’t need to have one building firm to do all the work – you can employ plumbers, carpenters, plasterers, decorators and so on separately, and project-manage the loft conversion yourself. This usually saves money but can be quite time-consuming and necessitates someone being at home a lot of the time to let the various workpeople in and out.

Step 6 THE WORK BEGINS! Luckily, most of the structural work can take place before the stairs are put in, as long as the builders are happy to access the loft either from outside (you’ll have scaffolding erected if a dormer window is being fitted) or from a loft ladder. It’ll still be noisy but at least the mess and dust will be contained up to this point. Once the stairs go in, the loft space is more exposed to the elements so be aware that it might be colder downstairs for a while (you might have already fitted your insulation and plastered the new space in advance but work will still need to be done on the stairwell and the landing ceiling, part of which will be cut away to fit the stairs). Also during this busy time, be aware of pets – are they safe, might they be frightened of the tradespeople, could they escape if doors are accidentally left open? If any of these issues might be a factor when your building work is taking place, consider sending the pets to friends or family to be looked after in the daytimes. © Bryan Tomlinson & Associates

Step 7 A lovely new space This really is the exciting bit – a whole new area of the home to get furnished and decorated. You’ll even need to choose a new light fitting – such fun! (A word of warning here – you’d be wise to choose carpet over other choices of flooring for the loft conversion because otherwise, unless you’ve had the floor soundproofed, it will be noisy in the downstairs rooms.) Oh, and don’t forget, if you find that after all you can’t part with those items you wanted to clear out back at the beginning of the loft conversion process, provision should be made for plenty of storage space under the eaves. Back to the drawing board…

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VIEWPOINT October 2019

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Teenager assaulted in Ringwood

Revolutionary ride for 100th birthday When Dorset care home resident Annie Cardwell was asked how she wanted to celebrate her 100th birthday, she surprised everyone by saying she’d like to go more than 100 feet above the ground. Annie, a resident at Colten Care’s Avon Cliff in Bournemouth, originally planned to ride the helter skelter on the pier, but it had been taken down before her birthday arrived. The plucky centenarian decided instead to take a spin on the 115-metre Bournemouth Big Wheel on Pier Approach. “It was fabulous,” said Annie. “It was a little windy up there but I really enjoyed it. I would do it again any time.” Born in Batley, Yorkshire, in 1919, Annie moved to Bournemouth with her family in 1962 and worked in Beales department store right up to the age of 82. Her earliest memories are of school and then starting work at a factory in her teens and getting stuck in the snow on her way in one day. Asked for her secret of a long life, she replied: “Be happy!” As well as her daughter Molly and son-in-law John, family members came from as far away as Portugal and Canada to help Annie celebrate her special birthday. Owners of the wheel Observation Wheel UK gifted Annie her ride for free.

Hampshire police are appealing for a potential witness to come forward as part of an investigation into a sexual assault in Ringwood. It took place sometime between 9pm and 9.30pm on 19 September when a 17-year-old girl was walking on a footpath between Jubilee Close and Winston Way. She was approached by a male she did not know. He sexually assaulted her over her clothing. A member of public intervened, pushing the male away, and the girl ran off. The incident was later reported to the police and DC James Pieri said, “We would particularly like to hear from the person who intervened during this incident.” If this is you, please call 101, quoting 44190335624. Information can be left anonymously on the Crimestoppers line 0800 555 111.

Scambusters Dorset Council Trading Standards has become a Friends Against Scams Organisation. The aim is to break the silence around scams, giving people information to be able to spot the signs of a scam, talk with and support others and report scams. It is a national and growing scheme that aims to recruit one million ‘Friends’ by 2020. Anyone can become a ‘Friend’. Log onto www.friendsagainstscams.org.uk to learn more about scams, to find a local face-to-face session, or to complete 20 minutes of online learning.

Trustees needed The Priest’s House Museum in Wimborne is seeking to appoint up to two new trustees to join the Trustee Board. For an initial informal discussion and recruitment pack please contact Emma Ayling, museum director on 01202 882533 or e-mail museum@priest-house.co.uk

Sell out shows at The Hub A two-hour high-energy ‘extr-ABBA-ganza’ featuring a catalogue of hits with stunning vocals, original ABBA harmonies, live band and lavish replica costumes is coming to the Hub in Verwood on 25 and 26 October and is almost sold out. ARRIVAL – The Hits of ABBA – is the show that every ABBA fan has been waiting for. If you miss out on tickets, but love to sing along to well-known tunes, book to see Coldplace, the leading Coldplay tribute band, on 3 April 2020 while there are still tickets available.

Mobile phone fine: correction The article last month concerning the offence of driving while using a hand-held phone unfortunately quoted incorrect information relating to the penalties for the offence. The offence now carries (from 1 March 2017) a £200 fine (previously £60), and 6 penalty points. If taken to court you could face disqualification and a fine of up to £1,000 (£2,500 if you’re driving a lorry or a bus). New drivers who have passed their test in the last two years will automatically lose their licence. mags4dorset apologises for the publication of out-ofdate information.

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VIEWPOINT October 2019

No need to feel lonely Loneliness and social isolation are not recent features of society and the National Housewives’ Register (NHR) was set up for women in 1960 just for this reason. Next year the organisation, now known as the National Women’s Register (NWR), celebrates its 60th anniversary and is still bringing women together for discussion and debate, friendship and fun. Regional events will be held all over the country in 2020, involving nearly 400 groups and over 6,500 members. Ex-NHR members are welcome to join in the diamond celebrations. For more information about the Ringwood group contact Josephine.burt@nwr.org.uk.

Friendly social club

Ringwood and Fordingbridge Club for the Blind meets at Greyfriars Activity Centre. Upcoming events include hand bells, quizzes, music with the Celtic Knotts Band and a special Christmas tea. Meets every 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month 2.15pm to 4.15pm. New members and volunteers welcome. Contact Kate 01425 476568 or Russell 01425 476618; email rfcb1@uwclub.net or visit www.rfcb.co.uk

Backland development refused New Forest District Council has refused permission for the demolition of the existing garage and the erection of two detached bungalows on land to the rear of 70, Eastfield Lane, Ringwood.

Council rejects plan Variety the Children’s Charity treated 46 young carers from Bournemouth to a day out at Chessington World of Adventure. Dana and Abby from Teds in Ringwood donated a soft toy for each child to take home and the day ended with a meal at McDonalds in Ferndown.

New Forest District Council has turned down an outline application for the erection of four new homes on land at Fryern Court, Fryern Court Road, Burgate, Fordingbridge.

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In response to the climate emergency declared in the summer, all council buildings across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole are now powered on 100 per cent renewable electricity. In addition, BCP Council also plans to switch the electricity supply of all streetlights in Poole to green electricity bringing this into line with the renewable energy supply already in place for streetlights in Bournemouth and Christchurch. This will mean that from April 2020 all streetlights across the conurbation will be powered using 100 per cent green electricity. Cllr Felicity Rice, cabinet member for Climate Change and Environment said, “Earlier this year we declared a climate emergency committing ourselves to becoming carbon neutral by 2030. Procurement of renewable electricity is an excellent example of a step the council and residents can do to become greener. “I would encourage any resident in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole to look at the reports coming out from the UN climate summit, which highlight the rapid changes that we all need to consider.” By switching to green renewable electricity, BCP Council’s carbon footprint will reduce by 5,944 tonnes CO2e which is equivalent to the carbon dioxide produced by the electricity used in 1,930 households across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. An additional 1,258 tonnes CO2e will also be reduced in April 2020 when Poole’s streetlights will be powered by green energy. The electricity procured will be supplied by energy company Npower and will be generated from wind and hydro sources. The initial cost of the electricity will be an additional £10.5k per year.

Council tax payment delay for care leavers Dorset Council’s Cabinet has agreed that young people who have spent time in foster or residential care will be exempt from paying council tax until the age of 25 if they live alone, or given a 25 per cent discount if they live with someone else. Dorset Council is responsible for 225 care leavers aged between 18 and 25 in its role as corporate parent. It’s estimated that 104 of these live in Dorset and are likely to qualify for a council tax exemption or discount, which would cost the council around £46,500 per year. Cllr Andrew Parry, portfolio holder for Children, Education and Early Help at Dorset Council, said, “Leaving home and living on your own for the first time is a challenge for most young people. If you’ve been in care, then you’ll likely to face additional pressures that can make it even harder. Care leavers often don’t have the same type of support from family and friends and are more likely to struggle to pay bills and run into debt, which then leads to further problems.” The exemption for care leavers will apply from April 2020.

Revolutionising group gift collecting Have you ever been in charge of organising a colleague’s leaving gift and halfway through the collection you’ve lost track of who you’ve asked? Have you ever organised a Christmas party, hen do or group family present but had a headache getting everyone’s money together or deciding what gift or experience to spend it on? With Collection Pot you can

collect money from different contributors easily through an online platform. The recipient can then choose to spend their “pot” on one of the many gifts and experiences available, or have the balance transferred to a bank account or gift card. The possibilities of your next pot are endless! To find out more, visit www.collectionpot.co.uk

Sexual abuse sentence for pizza delivery driver A former pizza delivery driver, who two years ago was working at Papa Johns on The Broadway in Broadstone, has been sentenced after he sexually abused a woman in Poole. Ionut-Adrian Ciocirlan, 27, of Poole, was convicted of two sexual assault offences following a trial at Bournemouth Crown Court in August. He was sentenced at the same court on 26 September 2019 and handed a two-year prison sentence, suspended for two years, ordered to comply with a threemonth curfew between 7pm and 4am and told he would be placed on the Sex Offenders Register for 10 years. He was also ordered to pay a £140 victim surcharge and £1,000 compensation. On 17 September 2017, Ciocirlan approached his teenage victim, and sexually assaulted her by groping her breasts. He then forced her into a room and further sexually assaulted her. The victim, who knew Ciocirlan, managed to

get away. She told a friend and then reported the offence to Dorset Police three days later. Ciocirlan was arrested at his home address on 22 September 2017. If you have experienced sexual violence, or if you know someone who has, there are organisations that can help including Dorset Rape Crisis Support Centre on 01202 308855 or The Shores (Dorset Sexual Assault Referral Centre) on 01202 552056. In an emergency – if a crime is in progress or life is in danger – please dial 999.

Ionut-Adrian Ciocirlan

Council flicks green switch

Steam and vintage day at Model Town The superb late summer weather drew large crowds to Wimborne Model Town’s recent Mini Steam & Vintage Day. Five mini steamers gave rides around the charity attraction’s miniature buildings, while a display of classic cars and bikes and a vintage Bournemouth bus offering a circuit of the local area ensured there was something for everyone. Model Town manager, Greg Hoar, said, “It was quite a day. We are very grateful to so many transport enthusiasts for their input in giving our visitors a day to remember.”

Photographs by

Tom Scrase

The attraction remains open until 3 November.

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motoring / keeping you on the road.

Catalytic theft warning There has been a spate of thefts of catalytic converters from vehicles parked in Wimborne, Verwood, Ferndown, Alderholt, Shaftesbury and Gillingham. A total of 19 reports were made to Dorset Police between 11 and 14 September. Police Sergeant Tim Travers, of East Dorset police, said that it appeared that in

a number of the incidents Honda vehicles had been targeted. He is urging readers to report any suspicious behaviour or to get in touch if you have captured anything relevant on CCTV. Call 101, quoting occurrence number 55190148660 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Remembering those killed or injured on Dorset roads Around 100 people attended a service of remembrance in Wimborne Minster on 21 September for those who have been killed or injured on Dorset roads and those who serve them. A first for the whole county of Dorset, the service was led by the Bishop of Sherborne, The Rt Rev Karen Gorham and Rev Simon Evans, chaplain to Dorset Police. A welcome was extended by Rev Andrew Rowland, rector of Wimborne Minster and the Northern Villages. Amongst those attending was the Deputy Lieutenant of Dorset; the High Sheriff of Dorset; the chairman of Dorset Council, Pauline Batstone, and the Mayor of Wimborne Minster, Shane Bartlett. After the address, everyone was invited to tie a piece of white wool on the branches of two small trees as a sign of remembrance and a symbol of road peace. Prayers were led by representatives from the Anglican Church, the Roman Catholic Church, the Salvation Army, the Society of Friends (Quakers) and the Poole Hospital

Chaplaincy. A collection was taken for Road Peace Charity, a national charity for road crash victims in the UK. Music was provided by the Dorset Police Band and former Minster Organist Christopher Dowie.

JOHN BENNS MOTOR COMPANY 50 Years Selling Low Mileage Cars 2017 (17)

PEUGEOT 108 1.2 PURE TECH ALLURE 5dr, white, grey interior, A/C, diamond cut alloy wheels, local car, 4500 miles............................. £6995 2016 (66) HYUNDAI 110SE 5dr hatchback, white, blue/black interior, local car, 11,000 miles.................................................................................. £6995 2015 (15) PEUGEOT 108 TOP 1.2 VTI ALLURE 5dr, purple, grey trim, full sunroof, privacy glass, A/C, E/W, alloys, cruise 21,000 miles....................... £6975 2014 (14) VAUXHALL CORSA 1.2 VVT EXCITE 3dr hatchback, alloy wheels, air con, white with half leather trim, 9,000 miles...........................................£5975 2014 (14) CITREON 1.0 CI EDITION 3dr hatchback, electric windows, alloy wheels, air con, blue with grey trim, 37,000 miles.............................................£4975 2013 (62) SKODA CITIGO 1.0 SE 3dr hatchback, a/c, electric windows, full service history, new cam belt, local car, 23,000 miles................................. £4250 2013 (62) KIA VENGA 1.6 5dr, eco dynamics, silver, grey interior, A/C, electric windows, F.S.H, local car, 40,000 miles.......................................... £5495 2013 (13) VAUXHALL ASTRA TOURER ESTATE 2.0 SE ECO TECH CDTI 17” alloys, air con, front & rear parking sensors, cruise control, grey, leather trim, very clean 32,000 miles...................................................................................£6495 2012 (62) HYUNDAI 1X20 BLUE CRDI 5dr hatchback, diesel, grey, matching interior, twin glass roof, alloys, rear parking sensors, F.S.H, 30,000 miles.... £5995 2012 (62) FORD FIESTA 1.2 ZETEC 5dr, white, grey interior, alloys, A/C, E/W, F.S.H, 38,000 miles.................................................................................. £4995 2012 (12) LANDROVER FREELANDER 2.2 TD4 GS 5dr, 4X4, black, grey interior, A/C, alloys, E/W, 19,000 miles.............................................................. £13995 2011 (60) FORD FIESTA 1.2 ZETEC 5dr, black, grey interior, A/C, E/W, alloys, 24,000 miles.................................................................................. £4995 2010 (10) MERCEDES C CLASS CDI BLUE EFFICIENCY SPORT estate, silver, black interior, alloys, roof rails, E/W, 54,000 miles........................... £8975 2010 (10) VAUXHALL CORSA 1.0 ENERGY ECO FLEX A/C, Alloy Wheels, 29,000 miles .......................................................................................................£8975

2010 (60) 2009 (58) 2009 (58) 2008 (08) 2008 (08) 2008 (08) 2007 (07) 2007 (56) 2003 (03)

NISSAN NOTE 1.4 N-TECH PURE DRIVE Multi Tone interior, Sat Nav, Air Con, Alloys, Electric Windows, Local Car, 35,000 miles......................... £4495 NISSAN QASHQAI TEKNA 2.0 SDR diesel, grey metallic, half leather interior, alloys, full glass sunroof, F.S.H, 54,000 miles.................................. £5495 FORD KA 1.2 STYLE+ 3dr hatchback, yellow with grey trim, local car, 73,000 miles.................................................................................. £2995 KIA CEED 1.6 CRDI ESTATE one family owner, new clutch, blue with grey trim, 81,000 miles.......................................................................... £2995 VOLKSWAGON POLO 1.4 DIESEL TDI BLUE MOTION 5dr, silver, grey interior, alloys, A/C, zero road tax, F.S.H, local car, 59,000 miles................. £3995 KIA CEED LS CRDI SW estate, alloy wheels, blue with grey, half trim, one family owner, very good value, 81,000 miles with history................ £2995 VAUXHAUL CORSA 1.4 DESIGN 16V 3dr hatchback, black, half leather interior, alloys, personal plate, F.S.H, 62,000 miles.......................... £2995 TOYOTA AURIS 1.6 TR 5dr hatchback, silver, grey interior, alloys, A/C, local car, 69,000 miles.................................................................... £2995 VW GOLF 2.0 GTI 5dr hatchback, alloy wheels, tinted glass, silver with grey trim, local car, 69,000 miles............................................................ £1995

AUTOMATICS

2014 (64) FORD C-MAX 2.0 TDCI TITANIUM X MPV 5dr powershift, full glass sun roof, full service history, 32,000 miles, white with half green leather trim, local car.................................................................................................. £9250 2013 (63) LANDROVER EVOQUE 2.2 SD4 PRESTIGE diesel, white, black leather, Westover service hostory, 31,000 miles........................................ £24975 2014 (64) VAUXHALL ASTRA 1.6i VVT 16V SRI 5dr hatchback, white, grey interior, alloys, A/C, F.S.H, local car, 36,000 miles....................................... £6975 1995 ROVER 216 5dr, red metallic, grey interior, sunroof, sevice history, a/c, local car, 33,000 miles.................................................................... £1995

Low mileage cars purchased for cash, please phone:

Telephone: 01202 840690 • Mobile: 07900 694489

187 Leigh Road, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 2BT • johnbenns1@outlook.com • www.johnbennsmotorcompany.co.uk 40 |

VIEWPOINT October 2019

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motoring

Driving in wet conditions By Marilyn Barber With meteorologists predicting that this country faces hotter, drier summers and wetter winters in the future, it is important we know how to cope with the latter conditions. Most modern cars feature cruise control, but it is advisable not to use this feature in wet conditions as there is the likelihood that you could lose control of the vehicle. Also when it is raining, it is important to concentrate on every aspect of driving. It may sound obvious, but it is important to slow down in wet weather to reduce the car’s chance of hydroplaning. This is when the tyres rise up on a film of water. Also, remember that stopping distances in the rain are increased. Before setting out on a rainy day, check your car’s equipment is in working order. This includes your headlights, tail lights and windscreen wipers. Also check your tyres – any with tread falling below the legal limit will severely reduce traction on wet roadways and those tyres will need to be replaced. Dipped headlights not only help you to see more clearly, they help other motorists to see you. It’s what we all dread: seeing a large puddle

ahead and not being sure how deep it is. Modern cars tend to have air intakes fairly low down at the front of the car – drive through deep water and it will be sucked up into the engine causing it to seize. This in turn overloads the connection rod, causing it to deform and damage the engine significantly. Unless you’re driving a 4x4, the maximum depth most experts advise you can drive a standard car through is

10cm (approx 4 inches). After driving through a deep puddle, you should apply the brake pedal lightly at slow speed for a short distance to dry the brakes. Remember to keep your air conditioning on, as this will stop your windows from misting up. If you break down in torrential rain, keep the bonnet closed while waiting for help to arrive to avoid the electrical system getting soaked.

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Backland development

New Forest District Council has granted permission, subject to conditions, for the erection of a detached bungalow, with access from Green Lane on land to the rear of 41, Manor Road, Ringwood.

Jo Swinson touring the facilities at the college

Backland Jo Swinson visits college development Jo Swinson MP, leader of the Liberal Democrats, visited Bournemouth & Poole College at its site in North Road, refused Poole, during the week in which the party held its conference in Bournemouth. The visit started with a meeting with Diane Grannell, the college’s principal and CEO, to discuss some of the aims and opportunities that the college provides the region with, as well as talking about some of the challenges that the team face, including funding cuts. Diane highlighted the range of courses that the college offers, including a high number of apprenticeships and the great relationships that the team has with large employers based across Dorset and Hampshire for the benefit of the students. She also focused on the Women

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VIEWPOINT October 2019

In STEM event which the college hosts every year, the engineering and construction courses offered to meet the growing demand in the region, and the ‘strong digital provision’ that the college boasts. Jo Swinson and Layla Moran, spokesperson for education for the Liberal Democrats, met some apprentices from Aim Altitude in the engineering department and Sunseeker apprentices in the Marine Technology Department. They also took time to look at the facilities within the Care Innovation Centre, which houses the health and social care and childcare courses.

New Forest District Council has refused permission for the demolition of the existing garage and the erection of two detached bungalows on land to the rear of 70, Eastfield Lane, Ringwood.

New Methodist Minister for Wimborne Wimborne Methodist Church was packed at the evening service recently to welcome the new Superintendent of the Christchurch and Wimborne Circuit, The Rev Pauline Crispin. In addition to her new role as the Superintendent of the 15 churches in the Circuit, Pauline will also have pastoral charge of Wimborne, Blandford and Colehill churches.

Golfers chip in £40,000 for charity The 33rd annual Peter Alliss Invitational Charity Golf Day held at Ferndown Golf Club raised £40,000. Since its inception in 1987, the event has raised more than £1.25 million for the Peter Alliss Wheelchair Crusade – leading to the purchase of 300plus wheelchairs and walking aids.

The Rev Pauline Crispin

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ASK THE EXPERT

By Nolan Irving, Irving and Sons Estate Agents

Thank you for your recent valuation, we have decided that we would like you to market our home. Is there anything that we need to do in preparation?

A: That’s great news and I am delighted to be able to help you move

home. I’m not sure that you really need to do too much to your home, but here are a few things that I would advise anyone who’s thinking of putting their home on the market to bear in mind. Your home’s first impression really does count. We are fortunate enough to live in an area where we have plenty of trees and greenery around us, but this means that you do need to make sure any falling leaves and other garden debris are regularly tidied up. With the weather at this time of year starting to get fairly dull, why not take the opportunity to enhance the outside of your property by introducing some winter flowering shrubs. It is also important to ensure that all the external areas are well maintained. Any tired woodwork should be repainted (whilst we still have some sunny days) and all UPVC should be blasted with a jet wash, as should patios, paths, guttering and decking. This way, you can really make your property stand out when everyone else’s gardens are starting to look at their worst. All rooms should be as clutter-free free as possible, especially when we’re taking the property photos and on those occasions when we are showing prospective buyers around. I would also suggest that the purpose of every room should be clearly defined, clean and tidy to show it off at its best. In most cases it is not worth going to the expense of replacing kitchens or bathrooms. However, you should clear

worktops, fix any broken fittings, clean the shower screen, replace any broken light bulbs and generally make sure that your kitchens and bathrooms are as appealing as possible. It is also beneficial to go through the property with a quick coat of paint should any of the rooms require it. This will make a big difference to the presentation of the property when the viewings commence. Due to various factors, the property market is currently a little unpredictable. We are arranging plenty of sales but the asking price of the property has to be in the correct region to begin with. As prices are no longer rising and in some cases falling back a bit, if your price is even slightly optimistic then it will make the property difficult to sell. We are finding that if the asking price of the property is correct then we are generating early viewings and properties are still selling quickly. However, if after the first 3-4 weeks the activity has not been at a level that we would expect, we will usually need to adjust the price slightly. There are currently plenty of potential buyers who have sold their own homes or are ready to buy and literally waiting for properties to come onto the market but obviously, as we approach Christmas, things will start to slow down. If you, or anyone you know, would like some free advice on preparing your home for sale, then just give me a call on 01202 823333 and I will be more than happy to arrange a time to pop round and help.

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

BUILDING SERVICES

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

CHIMNEY SWEEP

CARPET CLEANING

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

COMPUTER SERVICES

DISABILITY PRODUCTS

FENCING

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VIEWPOINT October 2019

ELECTRICIAN

FENCING

DECORATING

ELECTRICIAN

FENCING

FENCING & TIMBER

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specialist services GARDENING SERVICES

LOCKSMITH

LANDSCAPING

MAINTENANCE

ROOFING

PLASTERING

ROOFING

TREE SURGERY

WINDOW REPAIRS

LANDSCAPING

WINDOW REPAIRS

TREE SURGERY

YOUR ADVERT HERE IN THE NEXT ISSUE call 01202 941465

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LETTER OF THE MONTH

Racism in Verwood? As the owners of a Bed and Breakfast in Verwood, we really enjoy welcoming visitors from all over the world. We do our best to make them feel at home and help them enjoy seeing all the fantastic places here in Dorset and the surrounding areas. So you can imagine our horror when a German lady who was staying with us and who speaks excellent English, told us that when she was boarding the bus to Bournemouth (in Verwood) she asked the driver if he could help inform her about the buses for her return journey and was most upset to see that a large number of elderly passengers were laughing and making fun of her. She was left feeling humiliated and very embarrassed. Thank goodness there were two ladies on that bus who were outraged by this and made their feelings known. We have lived in Verwood for over 40 years and we are sure that the people of Verwood are better than this. We are hoping those passengers got on the bus from some remote village miles away, and had nothing to do with any Verwoodians. I think the visitors to our town and this country deserve better than this. I would like to say to those rude people on that bus that I hope, if ever they find themselves needing help in a foreign country, they get better treatment than our German lady. John and Trudi Edgar Verwood

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Blooming prizegiving Green-fingered people, talented artists and poets in Wimborne have been recognised. The Wimborne in Bloom's annual prizegiving took place on Saturday 21 September at Allenbourn Middle School. It was just a week after the regional awards ceremony at Brighton when the town had been awarded a gold medal for the sixth year in succession. Richard Nunn, chairman, expressed his grateful thanks to all those who had helped Wimborne in Bloom to achieve such an excellent result. The prizegiving was split into two events - the first for the schools’ Art and Poetry competitions, for which there was almost a full house, and secondly the main Wimborne in Bloom competition, including Art and Poetry for the adults. The Mayor, Cllr Shane Bartlett, presented the prizes for both events. Local nurseries and garden centres around the area provided vouchers for the main competition with local traders also supporting Wimborne in Bloom with prizes. Two special awards were presented; The Sam & Joes Challenge Bowl to Tom Scrase, freelance photographer, who has been a supporter of Wimborne in Bloom events, and the Civic Pride Award to the Rising Sun for all their support of Wimborne in Bloom this year. Prizewinners received a certificate, produced and donated by Moose International, Winton and Wimborne Lodge. The main competition winners also received trophies in the different categories. Wimborne in Bloom needs to raise in the region of £20,000 per annum, to fund the summer and winter planting together with the maintenance involved. The next events are the Charities Fair on Saturday 9 November in the Allendale Centre, and the pre-Christmas coffee morning at 34 Park Lane, Wimborne on Saturday 16 November.

Outgoing president Charlie Pellatt, left, pictured with new president Madelaine Phillips and her team.

Rotary: Two into one does go

Two local Rotary clubs have joined forces to form a single, stronger group of almost 40 members. Called the Rotary club of Ferndown and Parley, the president is Madelaine Phillips, who has recently retired from a senior role with a major bank. She said, “Rotarians are people who want to give back to society, to make new friends and to have fun while they are doing so.” People wishing to know more should ring 07983 681583. Madelaine’s chosen charity is John Thornton Young Achievers.

Steam Fair success

Verwood couple Graham and Elaine Foster just love putting together collections, with their latest bringing them success at the recent Great Dorset Steam Fair. ‘Love it or hate it Marmite’ won the best collection shield along with the Les Adams Memorial Trophy for outstanding service this year and in the past at the show.

Graham and Elaine with their trophies and their collection

Volunteer in West Moors West Moors Memorial Hall, which is a registered charity, is looking for fresh volunteers to help with the accounting or secretarial work. It is in good financial shape and well used. The positions would suit a recently retired person wishing to get more involved in village life. Contact John Bartley on 01202 876818 or Jim Hounslow on 01202 876572. The Mayor, Cllr Shane Bartlett and the Mayoress Mrs Tracey Bartlett with some of the schools’ Art and Poetry Competitions winners together with Richard Nunn, chairman, Wimborne in Bloom and Susie Gatrell, committee member who co-ordinated the competitions.

Become a parish councillor You could make a difference to the village of West Moors.

The parish council is looking for pro-active, passionate people to become councillors. You need to be over the age of 18, and to be a resident in the area of West Moors or to live within three miles of the local council boundary. You can also apply if you work in the area. The full council meets once a month and committee meetings are held in between. A spokesman said, “It will not take over your life.” Contact the parish council on 01202 861044 or email:office@westmoors-pc.gov.uk

VIEWPOINT October 2019

Forest FM reaches Ferndown Community radio station Forest FM is opening up a brand new FM transmitter in Ferndown to cover the town and the surrounding area. OFCOM gave approval for the new transmitter in September after reviewing the strong links that Forest FM has with Ferndown, such as the Barrington Centre and local groups in the town. The station is a not for profit radio station staffed by around 40 volunteers, including quite a few who live in Ferndown. The station will also be going mobile with a new outside broadcast van, enabling them to cover even more local events this autumn. Test transmissions should start later in October.

Christmas Card Competition Children attending Oakhurst and St Mary’s First Schools are invited to enter a competition to design a Christmas card, and the winning design will feature on this year’s West Moors Parish Council Christmas card. The deadline for entries is 15 November 2019. For more info, call the council on 01202 861044.

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