Viewpoint April 2017

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Mid Apr 2017

Your Independent Local Magazine

VIEWPOINT

Volume 41, Issue 6

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

Good Friday with a touch of ale Thirty-two teams from across the south competed in Ellingham & Ringwood Rugby Club’s Good Friday festival of touch rugby and real ale at the

Raymond Brown Memorial Ground.

A festival of colour, the photo shows a number of last year’s participants before the start of the tournament.

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

Free

Fanfare for Sp ring COMPETITION S: Dire Streets @ The Barrington £60 dining out voucher South Koreans compare longevity note s with Wimborn e

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VIEWPOINT April 2017

VIEWPOINT Volume 41 • Issue 6 • April 2017 MAGS4DORSET Ben Pulford managing director design@mags4dorset.co.uk Nick Pulford company secretary accounts@mags4dorset.co.uk

News Desk 01202 872813 Janine Pulford editor editorial@mags4dorset.co.uk Carol Waterkeyn contributing editor

Design 01202 233441 Louis Pulford design director louispulford@brightboxdesigns.co.uk

Adam Trimby graphic designer designstudio@mags4dorset.co.uk

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

Logistics Ian Lory Alexandra O’Neill

Hello readers!

The triggering of Article 50 of the Treaty of Lisbon by Prime Minster Theresa May on 29 March, giving us the right to quit the EU, was a momentous occasion.

I voted in the referendum in 1975, which resulted in a 67% majority in favour of continued membership of the EEC (as it was then known) after the controversy of the UK joining in 1973. Prior to that, the UK had made two applications to join, both were vetoed by the French.

Anyway, we now have two years to negotiate an exit deal and the process can’t be stopped, except by unanimous consent of all members states.

Did you know that no country has ever left the EU before? Until the Treaty of Lisbon became law in 2009, there was no way to legally leave. Thus Brexit is the biggest disaster to occur in the EU’s 60-year history.

Now here’s the rub. Any deal made in the next two years must be approved by a “qualified majority” of EU member states and can be vetoed by the European Parliament. This surely can only mean it will be win, win for the EU and lose, lose for the UK. Why didn’t anyone explain this before the Brexit referendum? Which, let’s face it, only produced a leave majority of 52%. Whether you voted stay or leave, you have to admit this was a disgracefully small margin for such a massive decision that will affect everybody, including our local community.

Until next month…

How to contact useditorial

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 King George V Pavilion, Peter Grant Way, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9EN

next copy closing date:

28 APRIL 2017 The Editor reserves the right to amend or shorten contributions in order to fit in with the editorial policy and style of the magazine

Janine Pulford Editor

4Dorset is independently published and distributed free to homes and businesses in selected areas of Dorset and Hampshire. It is also available by subscription at £35 per year. Views or opinions expressed in 4Dorset are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement deemed to be unsuitable for publication. Information about a service does not imply recommendation. All purchases made through this publication are done so entirely at your own risk. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with 4Dorset and should not be reproduced without prior written permission from the publisher.

Bluebell wood © Paul Waterkeyn

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

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DESPERADO

9th

THE HEART OF THE EAGLES

The Barrington Theatre, Ferndown 1 April 2017 Review by Janine Pulford

Spot on with vocals, harmonies and tight playing, Desperado soared into the Barrington with the Eagles’ music.

Desperado Live at The Barrington Theatre

A

s if excellent sound, clear lyrics and exceptional jams weren’t good enough, the pitch-perfect voices and guitar solos notched up the anti – as did the harmonising lead guitars of Chris Brighton and Nick Mellor.

Witchy Woman, Tequila Sunrise, Lyin’ Eyes were just a few of the best numbers that filled the first half, along with Doolin-Dalton, sung with astonishing voice control.

Already Gone was followed by an effortless Take It To The Limit and One Of These Nights with excellent guitar solos.

The second half equalled the first with the audience rocking with Heartache Tonight – other greats included The Long Run, In The Fast Lane with great on-stage synergy and an epic jam, Take It Easy and so the set built to Hotel California with those harmonising leads. What about Desperado? I hear you ask, but the band didn’t let us down.

It was a stonking night and the band’s gentle humour, led by Steve Ashcroft, was delightful as was the intimate atmosphere created by the venue itself. The band even met their fans after the show.

Next time Desperado visit they won’t be the new kids in town, so go and see them.

They are lentilly* delicious!

‘Already Gone’ reminded us with shock that we had left a pan of lentils on the stove and, worried it might burn the house down, one of us made a hurried exit to check before returning to watch the rest of the show.

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VIEWPOINT April 2017

SHORT STORY COMPETITION Creative Writing Awards - £150 top prize ENTRIES ARE NOW BEING INVITED FOR MAGS4DORSET’S 9TH SHORT STORY COMPETITION. Inspiration for your story is to be drawn from one of three photographs.

As in previous years, the shortlist will be chosen by editor, author and publisher Janine Pulford and the first judge to be announced is Adam Trimby MA Lit who has a masters degree in literary media.

Closing date: 31 August 2017 Rules of entry and photographs can be found at www.mags4dorset.co.uk

Article 50: no ‘plain sailing’ towards a UK exit from the EU warns MEP

Julie Girling MEP

A South West MEP has warned there would be no ‘plain sailing’ towards a UK exit from the EU, as Prime Minister Theresa May formally triggered Article 50 on 29 March.

J

ulie Girling, Conservative MEP for South West England and Gibraltar, said following the triggering of Article 50 many challenges lay ahead, adding it would be ‘business as usual’ for MEPs as Brexit negotiations get underway.

“This is what we have been building up to since 23 June and I think for both sides it will probably be a relief once the face-to-face talks start,” said Mrs Girling.

“At last the phoney war is over. It’s time to roll up our sleeves and start negotiating and MEPs have an important role to play. We have detailed knowledge of Brussels’ inner-workings and have personal relationships with key people.”

She urged, “We must focus our energy where it will get the best results – but the negotiations will be both protracted and intricate.”

She said she was disappointed that Westminster had not asserted its right to have a final vote after the negotiation before the deal was put before the European Parliament.

“This makes it critical that MEPs are involved and are part of getting the right deal in the first place.”

Mrs Girling said while negotiations were ongoing it would remain ‘business as usual’ for MEPs, “We still need to do our jobs, and do them properly.

It is upon us to try and maximise potentially helpful legislation and minimise any damaging legislation that might harm us in the

meantime.”

She added, “As negotiations get underway, I am going to do all I can to provide a bridge between our Government, and key figures in Brussels and the European Parliament in particular.

“There are so many unknowns, and we must not underestimate the difficulties and challenges that lie ahead. I don’t believe in misleading people into thinking that this is going to be plain sailing.”

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

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5

LAW SPOT

TOP 10 TIPS FOR FIRST TIME BUYERS

Buying your first property can be daunting, so Harold G Walker’s Conveyancing team have put together some top tips to guide you through the process of buying your first home.

6. Hire a Solicitor Instructing an approachable and proactive conveyancer can help your transaction run as smoothly as possible. Harold G Walker’s experienced Conveyancing team will be happy to provide a quotation and guide you through the process.

1. Save a Deposit Most lenders require you to have a deposit of between 5 and 10% so make sure you save as much as possible.

7. Get a Survey Depending on the age and type of property you are buying it is recommended to get the most extensive survey you can afford.

2. Know your Limits Find out how much you can realistically borrow based on your salary and savings, this will enable you to see what kind of property you can afford.

8. Exchange of Contracts This is a big step as you will be making a legal commitment to purchase the property and will pay a deposit (usually 10%). Your solicitor will ensure any issues are resolved before reaching this point.

3. Government Schemes The Government is keen to help first time buyers so look on their website www.helptobuy.gov.uk for more information.

4. Shop around for a Mortgage Look around for the right mortgage lender and the right deal for you. Some mortgages come with fees so make sure you factor these and other costs such as the Stamp Duty into your budget before you decide.

5. Research the Market You’ll probably view a lot of properties before you find the ‘one’ – prioritise your list of requirements and get as much information about the local area as you can.

9. Home Sweet Home The final step in the process is completion, this usually happens a few weeks after you have exchanged. This is when you will finally receive the keys to your first home.

10. Make a Will Now you are a property owner you need to think about making a Will, to ensure your assets are passed onto your loved ones when you die.

Merylin Martin

Law Spot is brought to you by Harold G Walker Solicitors, you Friend-in-Law. The answers in this feature are for guidance purposes only and do not constitute legal advice.

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VIEWPOINT April 2017

Russell Kerr, a community responder who has dedicated the last nine years to saving lives has been awarded the first Community Responder of the Year award, as voted by his peers

A West Moors man who became a first responder in 2007 and who now attends over 600 calls a year on an entirely voluntary basis has received an award.

As a first responder for the South Western Ambulance Service, Russell Kerr is trained to attend 999 calls and offer lifesaving treatments and reassurance to ill patients who are waiting for an ambulance.

His dedication to duty has won him the first Community Responder of the Year award (2016).

‘It’s my job to get there, make an assessment and wait with the patient until the ambulance arrives,” he said, “and it’s surprising how people, when they see my green uniform, calm down. It literally takes the stress out of a situation.”

He carries a responder kit bag including a defibrillator.

David Toman, community responder officer for South West Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust said, “Russell appears to always strive for excellence in his role and give outstanding care to all his patients. When crews have backed him up, he has provided high quality care to very poorly patients, assisting like a long-

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Russell Kerr (right) receives 2016 Community Responder of the Year award

Community Responder of the Year award presented to West Moors man

standing emergency care assistant would.

“He restocks the responder kit bag, delivers and collects kit to and from other responders and is a natural leader of the group for whom nothing is too much trouble.”

Russell also attends training sessions every month. “On top of that,” said David Toman, “Russell’s book-on hours and call attendance figures are incredible.

His enthusiasm and support has been commendable and he fully deserves this award.”

“As a first responder I help people in dire need,” said Russell. “It’s a very worthwhile volunteering role and I would encourage others to do it.”

Anyone wishing to become a first responder for South Western Ambulance Service should call 01392 261647 or visit www.jobs.nhs.uk.

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

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Column supplied by Wessex Pensions

House too big and nowhere to go?

By Daniel Parkin The so-called ‘housing crisis’ has been a subject successive governments have struggled with.

In 2007 the Labour government promised 240,000 new homes every year until 2016, which was never achieved and that target was dropped by the coalition. Shelter has also recently announced that in order to keep pace with demand, 250,000 new homes need to be built every

Daniel Parkin

year until 2020. Failure to act will mean falling home ownership, and an economic recovery stalled by a volatile housing market. Rents will rise, and the cost of keeping a roof overhead will become unbearable for many more families.

Another challenge is that many of the older generation are living in unsuitable larger properties with limited options of where they can move. Developers tend to build two or three bedroom flats with

young people in mind, or retirement specialist flats. There are also the costs to consider when moving home; on average around £11,000.

A couple I recently spoke to said they felt they couldn’t downsize to a smaller property because they are used to having space around them and felt there were too many flats and not enough houses to consider.

They also did not like the idea of a retirement flat as they associated it with a loss of independence. Being aged 71 and 69, they felt way too active to consider this option. Rather than sell, they said they would rather spend the estimated £11,000 saved by not moving, to develop the property to their needs when they get older, and may even consider releasing equity from their property if further requirements are needed.

I looked on Rightmove and see what was currently available within a three-mile radius of Bournemouth regarding properties of less than £500,000.

Flats for sale 1,758, houses 867 and bungalows 436. Although there are more flats for sale, there are still plenty of other property types to consider.

Could it therefore be the emotional attachment to the family home that prevents older people from selling up once their children have left – even if they are struggling to maintain it?

Housing analysts estimate that if more homeowners in this position considered downsizing, it would bring an extra 111,000 family homes to the market nationally. If this is the case, then surely the need for a suitable alternative should be more prominent.

For more information about pensions, telephone Daniel Parkin on 07801 432182.

17 Headlands Business Park, Salisbury Road, Ringwood, Hampshire BH24 3PB

Girling honoured Julie Girling Conservative MEP for the South West and Gibraltar has won a top award, voted on by her peers, for her work on countryside issues.

At an event in Brussels last month, she was named MEP of the year in agriculture and rural-development issues in the annual awards organised by Parliament magazine.

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VIEWPOINT April 2017

WIMBORNE TEACHER AND IRON MAN TRIATHLETE SEEKING SPONSORSHIP

T

hree years ago, David Wood from Wimborne signed up to participate in an Ironman triathlon as part of a fundraising effort for Macmillan Cancer Support. He had never participated in a triathlon or anything similar but the commitment sparked a passion for multi-sport racing. He became interested in representing GB at international level and discovered the Age Group programme for non-elite, but highperforming athletes.

“A couple of months ago I received invitations from The Age Group team manager at British Triathlon to compete as part of the team at the Aquathlon (Swim/Run)

European Championships in Slovakia in May, followed by the Aquathlon World Championships in Canada in August,” he said.

“I was over the moon to find out that I had qualified and am performing at a level that enables me to represent my country. I can manage my time, training and pain thresholds to ensure that I perform to the best of my ability, but I need to get to these events first.”

Racing at Age Group level is entirely self-funded and does not come cheap due to the entry fees, race licences, flights and accommodation. Nor do all of the associated costs of equipment, affiliation fees, insurances, training,

and coaching. David says that the reality is that he has to consider that he may have to relinquish his place within the team. Meanwhile, he is trying to find potential individuals and companies who may be able to offer funding or sponsorship.

He added, “As a parent, and a teacher in a secondary school, I hope that attending these events will inspire my children, students, and young people within the community to strive for great things and show them that dedication and hard work pays off. I would gladly offer my time, knowledge and enthusiasm to anyone that can make use of it in recognition of support that I receive.”

If you can help, go to:

www.gofundme.com/ DavidWoodGBAquathlete

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

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Avian Influenza and your responsibilities Even if you have only a handful of birds, are you taking all necessary precautions to protect them? Bird flu can be passed from wild birds to poultry, it can be transmitted directly from bird to bird or via wild bird droppings.

Since 28 February, most keepers in Dorset and Hampshire were no longer required by law to house their birds and could let them outside, provided specific precautions were taken against avian flu. This allows as much free-range production as possible to continue.

At all times still keep their accommodation, feed utensils and water as clean

as possible.

Also be aware of your own cleanliness, footwear, hands and clothing when dealing with your birds.

Remain vigilant. Signs of avian flu include loss of appetite, swollen heads and respiratory problems. If you suspect bird flu in your own birds or you see more than a couple of dead or sicklooking wild birds, contact APHA on 03000 200 301.

At present, gatherings of poultry for sale or shows are still not allowed.

Don’t forget it is a legal

Be friebnede-lying by

bee friendly

requirement to register flocks of more than 50 poultry with APHA (Animal and Plant Health Agency).

There are interactive maps on the Government APHA website showing the high risk areas where avian flu restrictions are still in place.

Christine Scott Animal Health Officer If you wish to have further information from Dorset animal health officers call 01305 224475, or visit www.dorsetforyou.com and follow the links to Trading Standards Animal Health pages.

Bees are vital for our survival. They pollinate fruit and vegetables, flowers and trees. If you want to become bee friendly, follow this new column and let it inspire you to attract bees into your garden, or even become a beekeeper.

East Dorset Beekeepers Association, which meets throughout the year and gives practical demonstrations, will be offering advice.

The association also offers training for new beekeepers and has a team that helps out the general public between May–August by collecting swarms, benefiting them and the bees and providing ‘starter bees’ for new beekeepers to begin a thrilling new hobby.

One of the latest potential invaders threatening our bees is the Asian hornet, from China. The fearsome insect, though smaller than the native European hornet, will ‘hawk’ in front of beehives in mid-summer, catching and decapitating bees returning to the hive. The unfortunate honeybee is then chewed to a paste and fed to the hornet’s larvae. A group of Asian hornets can decimate a colony of honeybees within three hours.

It remains to be seen whether the Asian hornet will reach our shores this year, but East Dorset beekeepers are preparing for the threat by building monitoring traps to catch invading queens and alert Defra if any are caught.

To contact East Dorset Beekeepers Association, call Jenny Wellman on 01202 873292 or visit www. edbka.org.uk For bee swarms that need collecting around the Verwood area and beyond, call Totty Cruttenden on 01202 813361, who will happily rescue bumble bees as well as honey bees.

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VIEWPOINT April 2017

Gas Masks

By Julian Hewitt, Fordingbridge Museum

During WW1, in 1915 at Ypres in Belgium, German troops used poison gas as a weapon against Allied soldiers for the first time. The Hague Convention of 1899 had outlawed shells, for the diffusion of asphyxiating or deleterious gasses and no one in Britain had thought that such a shocking weapon would be used. An article reporting the attack in the Daily Mirror was headlined “Devilry, thy name is Germany”.

Sir John French, the Commander of the British Expeditionary Force called the attack, “a cynical and barbarous disregard of the well-known usages of civilised war,” although his indignation was somewhat compromised when he ordered the use of gas by British forces in retaliation.

The yellow-green cloud of gas, smelling of pineapple and pepper, the soldiers would have seen coming towards them at Ypres was chlorine, which destroyed the respiratory organs of its victims leading to a slow and horrible death by asphyxiation. At first, allied forces were only given primitive protection. The Black Veil Respirator consisted of a wool-pad soaked in chlorine-absorbing chemicals fastened round the face with a strip of cloth. Soon this primitive device was replaced by the British Smoke Hood made of flannel impregnated with hypo solution

that covered the whole head and protected against chlorine.

Later sulfur-mustard gas, smelling of mustard or horseradish was used. It produced large blisters filled with yellow fluid on the lungs and throat as well as on the skin where it had soaked through uniforms. Phosgene gas was colourless but had a mouldy smell and was also an irritant weapon but symptoms came on hours or even days later.

By 1916 the Small Box Respirator was standard issue for use as a gas mask. This had a rubber face mask with two large eyeglasses and a breathing tube that led down to a charcoal filter in a box. Gas masks were even produced for the horses and dogs that were an essential part of the frontline war effort.

In 1915 the British released gas which blew back in their faces when the wind changed. As a result of such experiences gas shells were produced that could be fired onto the enemy by heavy artillery.

In 1925 the Geneva Protocol outlawed the use of all gases as weapons of war. Not certain that the Protocol would be followed in WW2 the government had issued 38 million gas masks to the civilian population by September 1939.

Everyone had to carry their gas masks in their cardboard boxes at all times and you could be fined if you were caught without one. The smell of rubber and the disinfectant it was cleaned with made some users feel sick. Children in schools had a regular gas mask drill and to make them less reluctant to put them

on, masks with a Mickey Mouse face on them were distributed. Luckily the masks were never needed.

Sadly the use of chemical weapons has recently been in the news again reviving memories of Wilfred Owen’s line in the poem Dulce et Decorum Est, In all my dreams before my helpless sight, He plunges at me, guttering, choking, and drowning.

Fordingbridge Museum has a range of WW1 gas masks on show including one designed to encase a baby.

Never put WW2 gas masks on as they may contain asbestos.

The Museum opened for the summer on 4 April.

- advertising feature -

Oyez, oyez! Roll up to the free over-50s event in Ferndown A free community event in Ferndown for the over 50s is being held following the huge success of a similar one in Broadstone.

The Douch Family 50-plus Information Day will take place on Wednesday 17 May at the Ferndown Royal British Legion, between 10am and 2pm.

The town crier will be shouting about it and advertising what’s on offer; including free refreshment and free slippers.

Firemen and POPP (Partnership for Older People) will be handing out the footwear – by replacing an old pair of slippers with a new pair it has been proven to help prevent trips and fall in the home.

Other stands will be offering a variety of goods and services from advice about financial planning to sports and leisure.

There will be cooking demonstrations and there is likely to be walking football and walking

netball demonstrations on King George V Playing Field.

Emma Regan, from Douch Family Funeral Directors, said, “After our last over-50 event proved so popular we decided to hold another.

“We are doing this in conjunction with the Royal British Legion and AE Jolliffe & Son will be our local supporting branch.

“There is plenty of free parking available and deputy mayor Cllr Steve Lugg is opening the event.

“Town crier Mike Andrews will be walking around the town to let people know what is happening.

“We have more than 30 stands with a wide variety of things on offer; there is a real mix of exhibitors.

“We hope to see as many people as possible.”

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

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in health & fitness

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VIEWPOINT April 2017

in health and fitness

‘SEEING IS BELIEVING’

Dorset Community Foundation, a local charity raising funds for those in need, took their ambassadors to witness first-hand how funding makes a difference.

F

irst stop on the tour was Vita Nova based in Boscombe – a small charity that supports people with drug and alcohol addiction by introducing them to the arts as a way of maintaining abstinence.

The second charity the group visited was Poole Men’s Sheds – a project where older men meet to socialise and enjoy community activities whilst

working on different craft projects. The ‘shed’ is an innovative way to combat social isolation many men experience once they retire.

The foundation supported the volunteer-led group to expand their services and offer support to new members. People are now even being referred by the local GP surgery.

Jon Yates, chief executive of the foundation explained, “Our regular Seeing is Believing visits

John Young with ambassadors and staff visiting Poole Men’s Sheds organisation

are eye-opening for our ambassadors, donors and fund holders. As the foundation supports the smaller local community groups and charities, which are often completely volunteer-led, even a small grant of £1,000 goes a long way. These small groups and charities, which are often unseen, struggle to raise donations and that is where we step in – donations we raise help them provide vital services to those most in need across Dorset.”

Dorset Community Foundation inspires local giving and philanthropy by working with individuals, trusts and companies.

Donations directly support local individuals in need, or impactful projects run by local small charities and community groups.

Thank You Ringwood and Fordingbridge Club for the Blind would like to thank those who supported the street collection in Ringwood on 31 March, which raised £92.22. Treasurer, Mary Peach, would also like to personally thank the kind gentleman who found and returned her handbag.

^

^

To find out more about the foundation’s work please visit www.dorsetcommunityfoundation.org or call the team on 01202 670815.

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

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in health & fitness

Learning - ADVERTISING FEATURE -

newtricks

Swimming is a great all round exercise. Have you ever seen a flabby dolphin? It’s an activity for everybody, whether you want to get healthier or fitter, or just have fun, or relax.

Being confident in the water opens up so many opportunities to enjoy yourself more, whether on holiday, or being able to join in and have fun with the family; especially as the area we live in is surrounded by water.

You can be a swimmer, or better swimmer at any age. For those wanting to start swimming, Ferndown Leisure Centre offers learn-to-swim classes for all age groups, from parent and baby through to adults. All classes follow the ASA Learn to Swim Pathway and are taught by qualified instructors who will help to develop confidence both in, and around, the water.

Free swim assessment

To start your child’s journey to be a confident swimmer, the centre offers a free 10-15 minute swim assessment to determine the right class for you.

In this digital age there is technology for everything and swimming is no exception.

You can review your child’s progress, move them to new sessions and review their achievements online at any time via your home computer.

How well am I doing?

Ferndown Leisure is currently the only pool in the area that offers SWIMTAG; an app worn as a watch that allows you to monitor your swim results, lengths swum, calories used, swim time, rests, stroke recognition etc via your smartphone, or computer tablet. You can use the SWIMTAG watch for free, as part of a swim or fitness membership, or pay £1 on top of your swim price to use it if you are not a member.

There’s a new class, Aqua Circuits, starting Tuesday 25 April 7.35–8.20pm with Caroline Johnson. To find out more about the programmes and facilities at Ferndown Leisure Centre, please contact 01202 877468 or visit www.ferndownleisurecentre.co.uk

CONSULTANT RHEUMATOLOGIST

to speak at Ferndown event The Ferndown Branch of Arthritis Care is hosting a free arthritis awareness day on 10 May in support of National Arthritis Care Week. Consultant rheumatologist, Selwyn Richards from Poole and Bournemouth hospitals will open the afternoon session with a talk on ‘The New and the Old in Arthritis Care Treatment’.

The event will take place at St Mary’s Church, Ferndown – in a room adjoining the Beacon Café – between 10am and 4pm and will include talks, demonstrations, discounts, special offers and free samples.

Professionals will be available to offer free help, and medical and non-medical advice for people living with, or having to manage arthritis. You may not be necessarily experiencing the full benefits of medical intervention, or be looking for complementary

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VIEWPOINT April 2017

or alternative help and advice. If you are, this is an event you might want to attend. Advice will be available from Lucy Ross-Browne (The Practice – Ferndown), Anna Hanson (Bay Tree Health Food Store, Ferndown), Julie de Silver (Ferndown Physiotherapy Clinic), Debbie Haynes, Chiropodist, Ferndown Sports and Leisure Centre, and Arthritis Action.

The local Ferndown Branch of Arthritis Care meets on the first Saturday of the month at the Day Centre, Penny’s Walk. The awareness event is for anyone who has arthritis, family members and friends and you can also find out more about the local social events branch.

For more information call Pam Bentley, chairperson – Ferndown Branch Arthritis Care on 01202 872074, or email asf@arttrailcentre.co.uk

in health and fitness

AFCB’S EDDIE HOWE opens new private unit AFC Bournemouth Manager Eddie Howe has opened a new private patient unit at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital.

More than a hundred local business leaders, health insurers, GPs and medical consultants attended the official launch of the new unit on 28 March to preview the new unit’s facilities.

The unit hosts four bedrooms in a private patient ward, two consulting rooms and a treatment room, and will operate six days a week as a stand alone service. When crossover services are required, such as operating theatres, the NHS will be able to generate income by renting resources to BPC when they are not being used by NHS patients, who will still have priority.

During the opening, Eddie Howe presented a celebratory plaque to BPC General Manager Michelle Burden. He said, “It’s no secret the NHS is struggling to sustain funding to provide high quality care to all its patients. When used responsibly by NHS trusts, renting NHS resources to private patients when they aren’t being used can provide a good source of additional income to support NHS patients.

“The new unit at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital is very impressive and I’m sure BPC patients will feel confident in the treatments and facilities on offer there, especially as there are emergency services very close by for added peace of mind.”

The new unit will be run by Bournemouth Private Clinic (BPC), established by the Trust in 2008 as an independent organisation in charge of managing and developing its private patient services.

The clinic’s purpose is to generate extra income that can be used to provide resources for NHS patients.

RBCH provides highly valued NHS services. Last

Eddie Howe with Michelle Burden

year, the Trust decided to expand BPC by adding a new, purposebuilt private patient unit in the area previously occupied by Ward 10 at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital (RBH). Day-case oncology had already been transferred to the hospital’s new state-of-theart Jigsaw Building when refurbishment of the new ward began.

Investment in BPC and the creation of a new, stand-alone private patient ward means the clinic will now be able to offer a wider range of medical services, from cancer care to gastroenterology, dental and eye care. The new ward will also allow BPC patients to experience all the conveniences and facilities of a private hospital, including consultant-led care, while having the advantage of emergency services on site.

Increased income generated from the expanded services will be used to purchase equipment and provide staff training over and above what the NHS can afford. In the past six years BPC has reinvested more than £3m into equipment and staff resources at RBCH, including more than £1m in funds to buy a Da Vinci robot – an advanced machine enabling surgeons to perform delicate keyhole surgery for the treatment of prostate cancer. The clinic has also funded more than £140,000 of radiology equipment and pays for an extra member of staff to work in the Trust’s Cardiology department.

To find out more about BPC visit www.bournemouthprivateclinic.co.uk.

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

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view from VERWOOD

Council Matters

By Cllr Simon Gibson

Many readers will have been shocked at the horrible scenes on their TVs of the recent attacks on our Parliament in Westminster. Whilst there have been several other attacks across Europe, the events of 22 March were all too close to home. Unfortunately, I found myself even closer as I was inside Parliament as the carnage unfolded outside.

Despite hearing the commotion outside, I do not really have anything to add that has not already been extensively covered by the national media. Thanks to the bravery of the security and emergency services, the attack was halted very shortly after it began. However, this does not lessen the sorrow that I feel for the people killed on Westminster Bridge or for PC Keith Palmer murdered defending the gates of our Parliament.

I won’t make any comment about the attacker but instead focus on the sacrifice made by PC Palmer and all those who put themselves in harm’s way to protect others. Our democracy, and our way of life depends on it, and we should always be grateful for the protection that we receive – sometimes at a terrible cost. The same

Cllr Simon Gibson

bravery and dedication is shown by our police and emergency services here in Dorset, keeping our area such a safe place to live in.

However, following a very depressing day, stories that gave me hope emerged. The brave efforts of passersby on Westminster Bridge, the generous donations to police benevolent funds and the valiant attempt to offer aid by Dorset’s own Tobias Ellwood MP. These are just a few of the positive responses that demonstrate that the actions of a tiny minority, hell-bent on hatred, cannot break the resolve to show compassion, as shown by many in the moments after the attack.

I had originally planned to write about Easter in this month’s column.

As a Christian, it is a time of the year for reflection and thankfulness. The Easter story is one of great hope emerging from the darkness. It is important that we cling to this hope but as we do, my prayers are with the victims of the Westminster attacks and with all those who risk their lives to keep us safe.

Red Nose Day at Hillside Community First School Children at Hillside First School in Verwood supported Red Nose Day in March by wearing something red to school. The children also took part in a bush tucker style food challenge. Children tasted dragon scales, wiggly worms and fish eyes (not really!) There were some surprise flavours.

Some of the children produced a joke sheet for sale and the school raised almost £200 for comic relief.

Hillside First School children enjoying their charity fundraising.

Verwood raises the flag to celebrate Commonwealth Day Children from Emmanuel Middle and Hillside First schools joined the mayor, deputy mayor and residents of Verwood to witness the raising of the Commonwealth flag in celebration of Commonwealth Day 13 March.

They joined together on Ferrett Green to hear the Mayor, Councillor Mrs Susan Sharp, read out a letter from The Right Honourable

Patricia Scotland QC, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth of Nations. This was followed by the Commonwealth Affirmation.

As in many towns throughout the Commonwealth, the raising of the flag took place at 10am. In Dorset it was greeted with blue skies and sunshine.

The Mayor of Verwood raises the flag to celebrate Commonwealth Day on 13 March.

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VIEWPOINT April 2017

view from VERWOOD

n e e u q l a carniv s e s s e c n i d pr

Verwood Carnival princesses, (L-R) Lauren and Evie

VERWOOD’S

an

CHOSEN

Congratulations to Rosie Whiteside who has been crowned as this year’s Verwood Carnival Queen. Queen Rosie will lead Verwood Carnival in May with her two princesses.

Eighteen-year-old Rosie will be spending the summer in her home town before heading off to university.

One of her first duties will be to lead the carnival procession on Bank Holiday Monday, 29 May accompanied by her two princesses, Lauren Page and Evie Jones who are aged 11. Both princesses just happen to love playing football and have said they are looking forward to this year’s carnival.

Carnival Queen 2017 Rosie Whiteside

NEW ADDITION TO

Harold G Walker’s team

Rebecca Wilmott

Local law firm, Harold G Walker Solicitors is delighted to announce a new member joining their team. Rebecca Willmott who started earlier this month is already settling in to life at HGW as the newest members at the firm’s Verwood offices.

Rebecca joins the firms Wills & Probate Department in Verwood as their legal executive and brings a wealth of experience to the role. Her new position will involve working with clients to draft wills, as well as advising on inheritance planning and handling probate issues. She said, “Harold G Walker Solicitors has an outstanding reputation in the local area and particularly for their specialist expertise in wills and probate. I am so pleased to be joining such a client-focused team and I look forward to helping the company grow even further.”

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

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Courtesy of Martijn Antheunisse, WWT (shows restoration work on the River Nadder)

River restoration project on the Hampshire Avon shortlisted for award A project to restore the River Avon Special Area of Conservation (SAC) to a natural river system supporting chalk stream habitats and wildlife, to meet the government’s obligations under the EU Water Framework and Habitats Directive, has qualified as a finalist in the 2017 UK River Prize

T

he national competition celebrates the most innovative river projects across the country.

The Agency’s ‘whole river approach’ to restoration and natural flood management impressed judges who voted it the best entry in

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VIEWPOINT April 2017

the ‘catchment category’.

As category winner, the Hampshire Avon project automatically qualifies as a finalist.

The Environment Agency is up against three other finalists and the winner will be announced at a special ceremony in Brighton in April and presented with a trophy and cash prize.

“This is a well-earned recognition for the efforts of many people and organisations working together to help realise the vision for the Avon catchment – and a great springboard for the next phase of the programme, where we would like many more to be involved,” said Russell Spencer for the Environment Agency.

The aim of the project was to restore reaches of the river most damaged in the past by man-made physical changes including the straightening or dredging of the river channel and construction of weirs and sluices. Various methods have been used to restore natural flows including the removal, modification and bypassing of structures and re-alignment of the river to more natural positions in the floodplain.

Led by the Environment Agency, the project is supported by a number of organisations including Natural England, Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, Wiltshire Fishery Association, National Farmers Union and Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust.

The restoration started in 2012 and will culminate in the completion of Phase one of the project later this year. Further work is needed to restore the remaining 185km of river and enable the catchment to respond and adapt to climate change.

VERWOOD CONCERT BRASS tri-oomphs again in Torquay finals A Dorset brass band beats world champions in Torquay finals after achieving its best result in its 153-year history There was no mistaking the joy shown by Verwood Concert Brass and supporters when it gained third place in the West of England Brass Band Association regional finals in Torquay on 12 March.

Attended by 80 bands from across the region, the bandmaster, Mike Dunnings, explains the reason why third place meant so much, “Over the years the band has steadily improved and in doing so has gained promotion through the brass band structure. Last year we were promoted from the 1st Section to the top Championship Section where the competition is really tough. We came 9th then, out of 13 bands in that section. Not bad for our first year in the Championship but with the bottom two bands being demoted, we knew another result like that this year would see us slip back to the 1st Section.

“The challenge in the Championship Section is that all bands are excellent but some are more excellent than others. There are six bands, most with a long history of being a Championship band, conducted by highly renowned musical directors and who are ranked in the top 60 of the best brass bands in the world, with Flowers band being ranked 5th, which has won the contest for the last five consecutive years. Bear in mind Verwood Concert Brass is currently ranked 116th in the world.”

With the contest in two halves, these top bands vie for the top six spots with the other bands striving to have done enough to avoid demotion.

“The significance of what Verwood Concert Brass achieved in coming 3rd and the reason for the heartfelt celebrations then becomes apparent,” said Mike. “Not only did the result make history for this being the band’s best ever result in its 153-year existence, it meant that it had been placed higher than four of the top six bands including the 5th ranked band in the world, Flowers, which came 4th and two other bands ranked 33rd and 37th in the world. It also means the band remains in the Championship Section for at least another year.”

In conclusion, Mike said a big thank you to musical director, Kevin Smith.

RNLI to the rescue as racing yacht capsizes in Poole Harbour

Yacht capsizes in Poole Harbour

charity of the year

RNLI

After a small racing yacht with two people on board capsized off Parkstone Yacht Club on 23 March, the RNLI launched Poole’s D-class lifeboat. The stricken vessel’s mast had become stuck in the mud and with the help of two other ribs that were in the vicinity, the lifeboat crew managed to get the mast out of the mud, de-rig it and escort the vessel back into Parkstone Yacht Club where it was recovered.

Conditions in the harbour were chilly with a strong blustery north easterly wind.

Long-serving volunteer RNLI helmsman Jonathan Clark said, “Although nobody was in immediate danger, the conditions were testing, with a sharp wind. It was a good job well done, the people on board the vessel were cold but okay.”

OTHER NEWS: •

A well-attended ‘Brew with the Crew’ attracted potential volunteers.

If anyone else is interested in helping to raise funds to keep the lifeboats afloat, please visit www.poolelifeboats.org.uk

•

Poole Lifeboat Museum reopened on 1 April.

•

The lifeboat station open day is 6 August.

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

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Meet The

TEAM

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VIEWPOINT April 2017

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Gruffalo starts tourist season in style Tourist attraction operators from across Dorset and Hampshire had a surprise visit from the Gruffalo when they gathered at Moors Valley Country Park and Forest, near Ringwood recently.

The networking event, organised by White Sheep Projects, brought together nearly 30 attractions from larger businesses like Monkey World and Beaulieu to smaller operations such as Barford Ice Cream and the Priest’s House Museum as well as over 100 local accommodation providers.

It concluded with talks from Visit England and the Regional Tourism Awards.

Council supports centenary celebrations

Ringwood District Council will be supporting the proposed centenary celebrations in the town throughout 2018 to mark the end of the First World War. The council will also make an application to the regiment, based at Marchwood, to assist with organising a band or send a detachment to the 2017 and 2018 Remembrance Services.

Genealogically speaking ‘Firemen in WW2’ is the subject of the next meeting of the Ringwood Group of the Hampshire Genealogical Society.

Alan House is the guest speaker and the meeting is at Greyfriars Community Centre in Ringwood on Wednesday 19 April commencing at 7.30pm. Members and visitors are welcome. For further information on the HGS please contact the Group Organiser, Paul Pinhorne on 07982 257510 or email ringwood@hgs-online.org.uk

Footie Fest Tourist attraction operators meet the Gruffalo

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VIEWPOINT April 2017

Ringwood Town FC is holding a minisoccer tournament and festival of football on 20 and 21 May at Long Lane, Ringwood.

For more details visit www.ringwoodtownfc.co.uk

Chris Gregory meets Year 10 PE prefects at Ringwood School

Sporting giant welcomed

B

ournemouth-based British Beach Volleyball athlete, Chris Gregory, spoke to Year 10 PE prefect students at Ringwood School on 15 March. He told them about his incredible journey from student to Team GB, after being selected to be become part of the Sporting Giants programme.

This scheme was launched by Sir Steve Redgrave ahead of the 2012 Olympics to identify young people with the potential in sports such as volleyball. Chris succeeded in being selected for the 2012 Olympics but unfortunately, due to the cuts in sports funding, was unable to compete.

He is now training to represent Team England in the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games.

He is also a Sky Sports Living for Sport Ambassador and regularly visits schools to inspire young people.

Through a series of fun, interactive games with students, Chris demonstrated the traits needed to become a successful athlete such as dedication, determination and resilience.

RINGWOOD NEWS

2017

What is Fanfare for Spring?

FREE EVENT TO INSPIRE AND CAPTURE THE IMAGINATION

Featuring a new collection of talent including Tim Horsting from Holland with his startling mobile swimming pool, the Fanfare for Spring is an International Festival of Street Performance t of Ringwood ar he e th in es nu ve Art that will include at least 11 At ng Centre, rlo Fu e, ac Pl t ke ar M e another 400 performers from including th ’s Cross. You are ay id Fr d an re ua the UK and abroad. Now in its Sq y Gatewa y corner. er ev nd ou ar e ris rp fourth year there will even be a su sure to find a chance for you to ‘have a go’ at some of the vibrant activities.

Where?

When?

Ringwood will be buzzing on til 4.30pm.

Saturday 20 May: 10.30am un

Continued on page 28…

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

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RINGWOOD NEWS from tinued n o C ‌

page

27

FREE EVENT TO INSPIRE AND CAPTURE THE IMAGINATION

Anything else?

All around town, visitors will find musical and artistic surprises including choirs, bands, school dancers, theatre, pavement artists, buskers, story tellers, comedians and even Punch and Judy.

And there’s no need to go hungry because there will be loads of opportunities for alfresco eating and drinking with the family.

eat day r g a is t n e v This free e ily with m a f e h t l l a out for 4 1AT 2 H B t a g in k central par

Contact details and for more information about the acts www.fanfareforspring.co.uk 28 |

Roger Bettle 01425 489350 email: gill@bettles.net VIEWPOINT April 2017

RINGWOOD NEWS

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

| 29

in for a bite

COMPETITION

£60

EATING OUT VOUCHER

Would you like to eat out at one of the restaurants advertising on this feature and get £60 off your bill courtesy of mags4dorset?

This month Viewpoint Magazine is offering this super prize of a £60 voucher, which can be redeemed at one of the eating houses advertising on this two-page feature.

All you have to do to enter the competition is unscramble the words below and put them into the grid. There is a rogue word that won’t fit, so it’s not a guessing game. When you’ve got all the right words in the grid, list them online at www.mags4dorset.co.uk or send them on a postcard to mags4dorset Eating out Competition, 1st Floor King George V Pavilion, Peter Grant Way, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9EN. The closing date is 5 May 2017. You must nominate the restaurant where you would like to spend your voucher if you win. The first correct answer drawn will be the winner. Employees of Pulford Publicity Ltd and the employees of the advertisers on this page are not permitted to enter. There is no cash alternative. The editor’s decision is final. The voucher will be valid for 30 days after the closing date of the competition.

UNSCRAMBLE these words and fit them in the grid.

(Note: There is one rogue word that will not fit on the grid)

teams, yrf, rasto, lirgl, tabes, kabe, west, quarbbee

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VIEWPOINT April 2017

in for a bite

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

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gardening

by NGS

GET TO GRIPS WITH GROWING YOUR OWN ING AND W O S ’S E R E H T – S R E N E D R GAR ION T N E APRIL IS A BUSY MONTH FO T AT R U YO N R U T O T IT’S TIME D N A – E N O D E B O T G IN PLANT BLE PATCH. A T E G E V R U YO AS CH U S S TO LONG LOST FRIEND It’s a key month for planting vegetables and fruit in the garden, and from now until late autumn you will be sowing, planting and harvesting. Finish off sowing seeds for early lettuces, summer carrots, dwarf peas, summer spinach and broad beans and start sowing beetroots, brassicas (broccoli, cauliflower, sprouts and cabbage), peas, turnips and swede. You can also plant the first early potatoes, weather dependent. For beginners, some of the easiest fruits to grow are berries. Strawberries and blueberries love containers, or open ground, and both will crop heavily once established.

A simple garden solution for April is to create your very own veg patch. Mark out the area well, prepare the soil, dig in compost and then sow a variety of seeds that will provide you with veg all year round. It’s a common misconception that you need a lot of space to be able to grow vegetables. You can still achieve real success with container grown plants.

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VIEWPOINT April 2017

Tomatoes will thrive in pots and grow bags and can also be grown in the ground.

Another plant that loves container life (and being in borders as well) is Lavender – a favourite with gardeners, not just for its beautiful form and fragrance but also because it attracts essential pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

It’s considered a romantic flower that most gardeners get the urge to plant in their garden sooner or later and can add real value with its scent and shades of blue flowers and silver leaf backdrop. To successfully grow lavender, it needs to be planted in a warm, well-drained soil with full sun. It is often planted as an edging plant with roses or grown as an informal hedge. However, lavender does not like ‘wet feet’ as it promotes root rot and dampness and is often the reason that it doesn’t perform well. It’s a tough plant, though, and once established only requires regular pruning in the autumn after flowering.

APRIL REALLY KICKSTARTS THE GARDENING SEASON. HERE ARE SOME OTHER JOBS YOU SHOULD BE THINKING ABOUT THIS MONTH… • • • • • • •

Keep an eye out for pests –- snails and slugs love new foliage as do aphids Start feeding plants in the garden from now to the end of the warmer months Sow seeds directly into the soil so they can flower in the summer Plant summer flowering bulbs Prune shrubs and trees Apply mulch or manure to flowerbeds and pots Feed and care for the lawn.

2017 Wildlife Friendly Gardening Competition launches

Now in its eighth year, the popular competition is free to enter and is suitable for private gardeners, schools, housing associations, as well as formal and informal community groups.

A new category has also been added to allow those in rented properties to take part.

Applications can be submitted online, where entrants can submit photos to show how much effort has gone into creating wildlife friendly habitats in their garden.

Features include bug hotels, bird boxes, ponds, or simply a space left ‘wild’ for wildlife to make their homes in.

DWT’s community conservation officer, Briony Baxter, said, “One of the highlights of the year is visiting

© Briony Baxter

Dorset Wildlife Trust (DWT) is inviting Dorset residents who garden with wildlife in mind to enter the 2017 Wildlife Friendly Gardening Competition, sponsored by the Gardens Group.

the gardens that have been entered in the competition as it’s very heartening to see so many people including wildlife friendly features of all shapes and sizes. Everyone who enters will also receive a free DWT wildlife friendly garden plaque to display.”

The Gardens Group, who have sponsored the competition for the last eight years are celebrating their 30th anniversary this year and are delighted to be involved.

All the entrants will be invited to a prize-giving ceremony at the Gardens Group’s Castle Gardens in Sherborne in July. The closing date for applications is 26 May. Visit www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/wfgc to enter.

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

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Regal amount raised A fundraising charity auction at the David Lloyd Club in aid of the Ringwood Regal raised £3,500.

Chairman of the Ringwood Regal Action Group, Mike Tuck, said, “What a great night this was, the food and the service from David Lloyd staff was excellent.

“We are hoping to have Christopher Biggins at the next fundraising event, so look out for news on that coming soon.”

Help! Your town needs you…

The Fordingbridge Twinning Association is preparing to welcome visitors from Vimoutiers, Normandy from 26 to 28 May to celebrate the joint 35th anniversary of the towns’ twinning. There will be over 70 guests arriving from France for the events, including 40 members of the Vimoutiers Football Club.

The programme of events has been devised to show off what is the very best of Fordingbridge.

Meanwhile the association requires the help of residents. Now is your chance to enhance your French language in the best possible way, by hosting one or two visitors in your home. They will be arriving late-afternoon on Friday 26 May, and will be invited, along with their hosts, to the reception and jazz at the town hall. They will leave early-Sunday evening to catch the overnight ferry from Portsmouth.

Everyone, including the hosts, will be invited to a range of activities, including meals, during the whole weekend.

For further details of the weekend, and if you would like to host one or two French visitors, do contact Alison Ayling, chairman, or Derek Ayling, publicity, on 01425 650770, or by email to hippotrain@btinternet.com.

Appeal after 18 year-old woman found injured in Damerham Officers in the New Forest are trying to establish how an 18-year-old woman received serious injuries to her head on Damerham High Street on 16 March.

She left the Compasses Inn at around 10.30pm that night and was found on a grass verge on Damerham High Street by a member of the public at 5am the following morning.

The woman does not remember how she came to be injured and has been treated for a fractured skull and hearing loss. Her mobile phone is also missing.

DC Jenna Osman said: “We have been carrying out house to house enquiries in the area, but at the current time it is still not clear as to what happened to this woman.

“I’d urge anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area to contact us to help to clarify what happened”.

South Korean visitors check out longevity similarities in Wimborne Minster Visitors from South Korea, a country that has topped a global survey for longevity, called into Wimborne Minster as word spread that East Dorset has a similar claim to fame.

Wimborne Town Hall was flying the national flag of South Korea last month.

It was in honour of 20 South Korean visitors to the town. The party included mayors representing four of their counties.

South Korea has topped a recent global survey for longevity, with many residents reaching 90+ years.

Word had obviously spread that East Dorset has a similar claim to fame and it appears they wanted to visit to see what the similarities might be that could contribute towards this.

If you can help please contact DC Jenna Osman at Southampton Central Police Station on 101 quoting 44170103238, or contact Hampshire Constabulary online. Alternatively call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously. Minicom users should call 01962 875000.

RING ANY BELLS?

A rare early bicycle and a police telephone box are to be sold by Lawrences Auctioneers of Crewkerne on 12 May. The bike dates from 1902. It was one of a few shaft-driven experimental bikes that were made by Imperial Rover and is expected to make £1,500 to £2,000 at auction.

The cast-iron police telephone box was made for the Metropolitan Police, and still contains its original telephone. It was for use by the public in an emergency. It has illuminated panels on the front and sides and a light on the top. It was probably made in the 1920s or 1930s and was purchased by the vendor around 20 years ago.

Lawrences’ Auctioneer Simon Jones said, “We believe there are only two left in existence in London, so this is a most unusual find.” It has an estimate of £2,000–£3,000.

Ringwood School welcomes award-winning author Chris D’Lacey

Ringwood School welcomed awardwith their Literacy Champion certificates, winning children’s author Mr Chris D’Lacey which recognise those who are working as part of World Book Week in March. hard to improve their reading and spelling.

Mr D’Lacey, who has written over 20 children’s books and is best known for his award-winning series ‘The Last Dragon Chronicles’, met with a group of Year 7 students.

He chatted to the students about his life as an author and the inspiration behind his stories. He also signed copies of The Last Dragon Chronicles and Chris D’Lacey and Ringwood School Year 7 students presented the students

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VIEWPOINT April 2017

NORMANDY COTTAGE OVERLOOKING NATURE RESERVE

Five minutes’ walk from a sweeping, golden sandy beach, it is an ideal retreat from the hectic pace of normal everyday living This much-loved, pretty two-bedroom French cottage is set in the tranquil village of Surtainville in Normandy.

The area is peaceful, not over-busy during the summer and in the winter the beach is virtually private. On a clear night, stargazing coupled with the sound of crickets is an unbeatable experience and skylarks on a summer’s day can be seen and heard soaring into the blue. There is a bakery and a shop within a short cycle ride. During the summer, French markets abound in nearby towns and picturesque Carteret is only a short car journey away.

The port of Cherbourg is barely a 25 minute drive so for those not wanting the hassle of being stuck in a car for hours after the ferry journey from Poole, or Portsmouth, before arriving at their destination, this cottage is the answer.

It offers two spacious bedrooms, and a lounge/diner/kitchen as well as a spacious shower/washroom.

The easy to maintain grounds include a patio area which is a secluded sun-trap overlooking the espace vert (nature reserve) and parking for a large vehicle. The property is sold with two sheds and an arbour seat.

Contents could be included if required by negotiation.

PRICE:

£84,950

For more details or to view call

07910 680986

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

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in and around the area

what’s on

this month Until 30 April

Discover Wimborne, events throughout the month at a large array of Wimborne BID venues.

For more information go to the wimborne.info website.

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

20 April 7.30pm-10pm

‘Purbeck and Beyond’ by Hamish Murray, who will be presenting an exhibition full of his photographs, sketches and paintings inspired by Durlston and the local area. The exhibition will be held in the Fine Foundation Gallery at Durlston Country Park.

Verwood Traditional Jazz Club welcomes the return of ‘The Legendary All Stars’. Keith Nichols, piano, Enrico Tomasso, trumpet, Thomas “Spats” Langham, banjo/ guitar, Trevor Whiting, reeds and Nick Ward, drums. St Leonards Hotel, near Ringwood. For more details/tickets, contact Janet 01202 873725 or Geoff 07798 721405.

15 April 11am-4pm

21 April 10am-1pm

Until 30 April 10.30am-5pm

Easter Farm Animal Fun Day, Furlong Centre, Ringwood. A free event where youngsters can meet the animals from Longdown Mobile Farm and take part in children’s Easter arts and crafts.

18 April 6.30-9pm

Ringwood Woodcarvers Club.

Meets at St Leonards and St Ives Village Hall, Braeside Rd, St Leonards, BH24 2PQ on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month.

Beginners and experienced woodcarvers welcome. Basic tuition given. Contact: 01425 475129 or www.ringwoodwoodcarvers.org

Reptile ramble on Upton Heath.

Join Dorset Wildlife Trust to discover the reptiles waking up for spring. Snake and lizard activities Suggested donation £3 per child.

No unaccompanied children.

Meet at the Urban Wildlife Centre, Beacon Hill Rd, Corfe Mullen BH21 3RX. More information from 01202 692033.

22 April 10-12 noon

Grandma’s Attic Sale, lots of bargains and refreshments, free entry at the Crowe Hill WI Hall, Crow, Ringwood. For further information, contact Claire Skelley 01425 473107.

22 April 6.30 for 7pm 20 April 7.30pm

Bournemouth & Christchurch Group of Dorset Wildlife Trust ‘The Brown Hare In Dorset’, an illustrated talk by Briony Baxter, with a very short Group AGM. Christchurch Baptist Church Hall, Bargates, corner of Beaconsfield Road, Christchurch. £2 incl coffee and biscuits.

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VIEWPOINT April 2017

Isaac Gulliver, King of the Smugglers, is back in response to popular demand for another Minster Tales, at Wimborne Minster. With fabulous storytellers, including St George and Queen Elizabeth. Tickets, £10 each (accompanied children under 16 will be free) to include refreshments, on sale in the Minster shop, Parish Office and Square Records, High Street.

22 April 7.30pm

Verwood’s Fayrewood Singers are performing a concert, Springtime In Song, at Verwood Methodist Church. Tickets are £6 and £2.50 for children, to include refreshments. All welcome. Tickets from 01202 280491 or at the door.

23 April 10am-4pm

26-29 April 7.30pm and Sat mat 2.30pm

Milton Musical Society presents Oklahoma! at the Regent Centre, High Street, Christchurch. Tickets £15, concs £14. Book on 01202 499199.

27 April 7.30pm

Jazz at the Meeting House, Ringwood BH24 1EY with the Memphis Jazzmen. Proceeds from raffle go to Julia’s House.

Admission £7. Free parking after 6pm in the Furlong car park.

Specialist Nurseries Plant Fair at Knoll Gardens. Normal admission to gardens applies. Buy camellias, blueberries, azaleas, ferns and grasses. Details 01202 873931 or visit www.knollgardens.co.uk

28 April 8am–10am

23 April

28 April 7.15 for 7.30pm

Beaulieu Boat Jumble, Beaulieu, Hants. Tickets £9.70 for adults, £6 for 13-17 year olds and younger children go free. To book contact: 01590 614614 or email events@ beaulieu.co.uk

25 April 2pm

A guided walk across Ferndown Common to Knoll Gardens with Dorset Wildlife Trust and Knoll’s owner, Neil Lucas looking at east Dorset’s horticulture and wildlife.

Price £5. Book online at www. dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/events. html or call DWT on 01202 692033.

26 April 7.30pm

Verwood Keyboard Society concert with Claudia Hirschfeld on Wersi Louvre keyboard in the Hub theatre.

Tickets £10 on the door. Further information from Janetta, 01202 822936 or Organfax website.

RSPB Guided Walk – The Voices of Spring. Listen to an amazing array of birds as they greet the new day at Knoll Gardens before the gardens open to the general public.

Costs £4. Call 01202 873931.

Bournemouth Orchid Society meeting with speaker, Gordon James talking about the orchids of Plateau de Guilhaumard. At Bournemouth Natural Science Society, Christchurch Road, BH1 3NS. Entry free, but email Melville at: programme@ bournemouthorchidsociety.org.uk

28-29 April

UTC Theatrical Choir presents The Name Game musical show at Ferndown Village Hall, Church Road, Ferndown BH22 9ET. 7.30pm performance on Friday, 3pm on Saturday. Tickets £10, concs £9 from www.ticketsource. co.uk/unison or Jennie Davies on 01202 880862.

6 May

Did you attend Melverly School at Colehill, Wimborne 1931-1970?

Pupils are invited to reunion Tea Party. For details contact 01202 825774 or 01202 872423.

in and around the area

C

TITIO OM P E

N

Win two tickets to see Dire Streets at The Barrington, Ferndown

Dire Streets perfectly capture the distinctive, authentic sound of one of the biggest guitar bands of all time.

They will be performing at the Barrington on 14 May. Fronted by guitar ace John Brunsdon and his band of accomplished musicians, they play with an attention to detail and musicianship that marks them as the stand-out Dire Straits tribute in the UK. Dire Streets cover tracks from early favourites like Sultans of Swing and Lady Writer, through to the mega-hits of the 1980s and Brothers In Arms, taking in all the classic album and live versions. They make no attempt to look like the original band, just perform great songs with the enthusiasm and respect they deserve.

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN TWO TICKETS, ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTION:

Who was the frontman of the original Dire Straits band?

Enter online at www.mags4dorset.co.uk or send your answer on a postcard to DIRE STREETS Competition, mags4dorset, 1st Floor King George V Pavilion, Peter Grant Way, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9EN. Closing date is 28 April. The first correct answer drawn will be the winner. Employees of Pulford Publicity Ltd and the Barrington Theatre are not permitted to enter. There is no cash alternative. The editor’s decision is final.

Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer Pasha Kovalev at the Regent Centre Winner of Strictly Come Dancing 2014, Pasha Kovalev, is touring with his brand new show Let’s Dance The Night Away and will be appearing at the Regent Centre in Christchurch on 5 and 6 May. Pasha arrived in the UK in 2011 as one of the professionals on Strictly Come Dancing. His first celebrity partner was Chelsee Healey and they were runners up for the coveted title.

In 2012 Pasha danced with Girls Aloud star Kimberley Walsh, once again taking the runner up slot. In 2013 Pasha danced with Countdown presenter Rachel Riley before finally winning the trophy in 2014 with television presenter Caroline Flack.

After the success of his Life Through Dance and It’s All About You tours over the last few years, Pasha will be joined again by spectacular dancers, including special guest Anja Garnis, in an evening of live singing and dance.

It’s a hugely interactive show and reaches out to the local dance communities as well as entertaining fans of Pasha and of Strictly Come Dancing. Tickets are priced at £24, with £22 for concessions.

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

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in and around the area

EVEN MORE REASONS TO VISIT CHRISTCHURCH FOOD FESTIVAL This year’s Christchurch Food Festival, promises even more for food lovers and visitors

T

his 18th Festival boasts the popular Festival Market with stalls the length of the High Street and the Festival Village on the Quomps at Christchurch Quay on the weekend of 6 and 7 May, with the Highcliffe Revival Food Festival on the weekend of 20 and 21 May. In addition events will be taking place in restaurants, pubs and cafes throughout Christchurch during May. Some highlights on 6 and 7 May include the Demonstration Marquee with free demonstrations from local and celebrity chefs including Dean Edwards, Master Chef winner and resident chef on ITV’s Lorraine and Lesley Waters, the Festival’s Patron as well as chocolatier Alana Spencer who was the 2016 winner of BBC’s The Apprentice. Also in the Festival Village will be a range of stalls selling food and drink including a beer festival.

The Quomps will also be the new home for Kids’ Kitchen, giving children a chance to try their hands at preparing some tasty dishes either on their own

or with an adult. Tickets are selling fast and can be bought from The Regent Centre online or in person.

In Saxon Square for the first time will be Broil, who will be demonstrating barbecuing – not only for people to watch but to have a go as well.

A number of special events take place during the main festival weekend including on 5 May; the Perfect Hoedown Throwdown – a lively evening of great food and dancing to the famous Celidh band Black Sheep.

On 6 May in the evening,

Dean Edwards will be demonstrating some of his signature dishes, to be followed by supper and entertainment. Both events are ticketed. More information and tickets are available on the website.

Car parking is at a premium during the festival weekend and visitors are recommended to travel into the town via public transport or park further away. For 2017 there will be a paid-for Park & Stride car park costing £5 for the whole day. This is at Stanpit Recreation Ground, BH23 3NA.

A festival programme will be available from venues throughout Christchurch or visit the festival website at www.christchurchfoodfest.co.uk. For details of the Highcliffe Revival Food Festival go to www.highclifferevivalfoodfestival.co.uk.

Bourne to sing

The Bourne 2 Sing male voice choir will be performing at Cranborne Church on the evening of 26 May. The concert will showcase popular songs for easy listening and will be performed in two segments. There will also be two solo spots.

Following their concert at Verwood Hub on 10 March, a post from the choir’s website encapsulates the entire ethos of the choir. The feedback was “Wonderful choir, wonderful evening, wonderful idea.”

The event raised over £700 for Verwood Day Service, which will be used to enhance the service for all who use it.

The concert on 26 May is a fundraising event in aid of church funds. The performance starts at 7.30pm. For more information please either email the choir at bournetwosing@ gmail.com or visit the website bourne2singchoir.uk.

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VIEWPOINT April 2017

Oklahoma-bound

Always wanted to be a cowboy? Now’s your chance!

Ferndown Phoenix Musical Society is looking for new members for their production of Oklahoma! to be performed at the Barrington Theatre in Ferndown from 21 to 23 September.

Initial rehearsals are on Mondays from 7.30pm to 10pm at Ferndown Village Hall. The first rehearsal was early in April but anyone still interested should contact Terry Holbert on 01202 972656, for more information.

ASKING FOR MURDER Ferndown Drama’s final play in their 51st season is Murder for the Asking, a thriller by Derek Benfield and directed by Paul Marcus If the acid test to be applied to any good murder mystery is whether it keeps one guessing right up to the end, then Murder for the Asking is a winner. By means of a generous helping of red herrings in the best Agatha Christie tradition, Derek Benfield’s ingenious whodunit keeps one literally in the dark right up to the last minute.

The play (set in the 1960s), centres on an unemployed man. Henry Scrubb is desperately trying to keep a roof over his own and his wife’s head. He eventually spots a job in a newspaper column, which, although giving few details requires no qualifications.

He applies to a box number and subsequently receives a visit from a mysterious stranger called James Franklyn.

Franklyn offers him a simple job. There is no union rate – but how about a single payment of £3,000? And the job?

You’ll have to go along to find out.

The cast members are Chaz Davenport, Kristy Dixon, Richard Harker, Steve Hawker, Chris Hughes, Jenny Sibley and Lee Tilson.

Murder for the Asking will be performed at the Barrington Theatre, Ferndown Centre from 26 – 29 April at 7.45pm. Tickets are £8.50, so you can email info@ ferndowndrama.org, ring 01202 894858, or buy on the door.

Deckchairs

by Jean McConnell and Ladies on the Costa

by Lindy McNaughton Jordan Drama fans should make a note in their diaries as the Fordingbridge Players will be performing their spring dramas at the Drama Studio, Burgate School in June Following on from the successful production of two of the ‘Deckchairs’ series of plays by Jean McConnell in 2015, the players will perform a few more of the short plays, some comedy and some more dramatic. They will also be looking to perform a number of short monologues from the ‘Ladies On The Costa’ series by Lindy McNaughton Jordan telling the stories of ladies who have ended up living in Spain for all sorts of reasons.

This mixture of comedy and drama has something to suit everyone and is a production not to be missed.

Performances will be held in the drama studio at Burgate School over three consecutive nights starting Thursday 1 June at 7.30pm. Tickets will be available midApril online via the website www.fordingbridgeplayers.org. uk and from Jessica’s, High Street, Fordingbridge, Tel: 01425 652395, at £8 each.

The Fordingbridge Players are always happy to welcome new members; you don’t have to act, as they need plenty of backstage and technical help, too.

Check out the website for details of how to join: www. fordingbridgeplayers.org.uk

in and around the area

Horsepower at Highcliffe Castle Toby Hoad, and his two working horses, Fleur and Celine, will begin horse logging in the grounds of Highcliffe Castle in April.

H

orse logging will be carried out to help remove the dead trees, which lay fallen in Rothesay Park grounds. Using horses to extract trees causes less disturbance to the woodland floor, and the horses can get through narrower gaps, compared to conventional tractors.

Toby, who is based near Corfe Castle, has been horse logging for more than seven years, but this will be the first time he

has worked at Highcliffe Castle. The horses are scheduled to start on 10 April but the grounds will remain open to the public whilst the horses are working.

Toby Hoad said, ‘’I was thrilled to be approached

by Highcliffe Castle to help them clear some of the woodland in the grounds.

Both Fleur and Celine are well suited to this task and it’s great to have the opportunity to work in such a high profile location’’.

Katie Ingham, Heritage Team Leader at Highcliffe Castle said, “The staff and volunteers are really looking forwarding to welcoming Toby and his horses to Highcliffe Castle. It’s the first time that we have used horse power here and we hope that members of the public will get the opportunity to see them working in our grounds.’’

Highcliffe Castle grounds are free to visit and open daily from 7am.

FORDINGBRIDGE & DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY

For those looking to design or re-design their garden, a recent talk provided useful guidance. Richard Cripps is now an independent garden and estates consultant after a 35-year career teaching horticulture at Wiltshire Agricultural College. He gave an insight into ‘Elements of Garden Design’.

The table show in March was ‘Three Daffodils’ and winners were: 1st Dave Manston, 2nd Janet Elton, 3rd Sue Hockin.

The next meeting will be held on 24 April at 7.30pm at Avonway, Fordingbridge, with a talk by Patricia Elkington on ‘The Harmonious Garden – better plant association’. Plant sales will be held on 6 and 20 May at Fordingbridge car park by the Library.

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

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motoring

Driving under the influence of antihistamine?

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VIEWPOINT April 2017

A

n easy-to-use roadside swab test that from hay fever, it is understandable many can catch drug offenders was may have to resort to taking remedies to help introduced two years ago and targets them combat their allergies. And according more than those who dabble with to the Royal Pharmaceutical Society many illegal substances. With the start of Britain’s prescription and over-the-counter medications, hay fever season, the debate about drugincluding some hay fever medications, can driving is once again in full bloom. Research have side effects. from Confused.com shows many drivers Despite guidance leaflets being are unaware of the danger of dosing up on provided with prescription and over the seemingly harmless treatments to ease their counter medication, when it comes to the running noses or itchy eyes before taking to recommended guidelines for taking hay fever the wheel. medication, many Brits are showing a flagrant According to the study, disregard to the advice more than a third of Brits being given and warning “It’s worrying to see information provided with (34%) claim to suffer from hay fever, with nearly twothat so many drivers the medication. In fact thirds of hay fever sufferers than one in seven admit to driving while more (64%) admitting to driving (15%) drivers who suffer under the influence after taking medication. This from hay fever admit to not is despite common side reading the advice leaflet. of drugs” effects such as drowsiness Worryingly, one in 15 (7%) experienced by more than drivers admit to not sticking half of drivers (55%), in addition to feeling to the recommended dose, too, with 3% saying lethargic (35%) and blurry vision (35%). they didn’t realise there was a recommended Worryingly, one in 15 motorists (7%) who suffer dose for the medication. from hay fever admit that their ability to drive Amanda Stretton of Confused.com, says, has at one point been impaired while under “It’s worrying to see that so many drivers admit the influence of medication. Almost one in 20 to driving while under the influence of drugs (4%) of these people have had an accident as a (15%) – both prescription (12%) and illegal result of driving after taking such medication.

(3%). However, it would seem that new drug Many people don’t understand the serious driving laws introduced two years ago seem to consequences that can arise by mixing certain be having an impact, with the number of drug over-the-counter remedies. So, it may come as driving arrests increasing… no surprise that many Brits feel strongly about “Our advice is simple, before taking any drug driving, with more than half (51%) saying medication people should always read the that absolutely no one should be allowed to safety leaflet or ask a pharmacist before taking drive while under the influence of drugs. Yet to the road. If unsure, they should err on the with more than a third (34%) of drivers suffering side of caution and avoid driving at all costs.”

specialist services AERIAL & SATELLITE INSTALLERS

AIRPORT TRANSFERS

ARTICLES WANTED

BLINDS & CURTAINS

CARPENTRY

BUILDING SERVICES

CARAVAN ACCESSORIES

COMPUTER REPAIRS

DECORATING

ELECTRICIAN

FENCING

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

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specialist services DISABILITY PRODUCTS

FENCING

GARDENING SERVICES

FENCING

GARDEN BUILDINGS

FLOORING

GARDENING SERVICES

LANDSCAPING

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VIEWPOINT April 2017

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

specialist services LOCKSMITH

MAINTENANCE

MAINTENANCE

OLD TOYS WANTED

PLUMBING

PATIO & DRIVEWAY CLEANING

PLUMBING & HEATING

SHUTTERS

TILING

WINDOW REPAIRS

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

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specialist services TREE SURGERY

TREE SURGERY

WINDOW REPAIRS

WINDOW REPAIRS

WINDOW REPAIRS

WEB DESIGN

FREEADS Proceed with caution when buying privately.

MAGS4DORSET cannot accept any liablity for transactions carried out as a result of responding to these freeads.

Bellavista bath seat/lift. Hardly used. £100 ono. Ferndown.

01202 890049

Pair of ladies fur boots, tan, size 7, £30. Electric fire with fluorescent bars. £15. Ferndown. 01202 876348

RST Motorbike leathers, men’s two-piece black and silver, size 48, £70, ladies two-piece red and black size 14, £40. Both excellent condition. Verwood. 01202 829371

Three pairs of curtains, fully-lined, ideal for patio doors. 1pr blue, 2prs pinky-red. All vgc. £20 each pair. St Ives. 01425 476846

Bevel edge mirror in wooden frame.

21” x 15”, vgc. £9. Ringwood. 01425 471843

Puch shopper bike, promenade 20, vintage 80s, sturdy with 3-speed gear, rarely used. £30. Verwood.

01202 813803

Little Explorer Bright Starts baby bouncer, exc condition, hardly used. £20. Broadstone. 01202 696948

Videos, sci-fi, Disney, action etc.

Only £5 the lot. Wimborne. 01202 891492

Solid wood and bamboo dining table and 6 chairs, seats 6-8, extends to 8-10, exc condition. £200 ono. Can deliver free locally.

Ferndown. 01202 891661 Refectory table with 6 wheel-back chairs (two are carvers) £175. Oval table from M&S Home vgc £30.

Ferndown. 01202 873411 Mirrors, 1 white with gilt tracing frame 24” x 18” £12, and the other with wide gilt frame 21” x 27” £20.

Ferndown. 01202 873411

Tiled top tables, one is occasional table the other is wheeled trolley. £35. Ferndown. 01202 873411 Petrol strimmer 4-in-1, hedgetrimmer, chainsaw, brush cutter, extension pole, harness, oil and toolkit, never been used.

Genuine reason for sale. £100.

Stanbridge, Wimborne. 01258 840929 Stairlift, 12-step, lift, easy to fit. £60.

Wimborne. 01202 861266 Two wrought iron garden chairs. £25. Ringwood. 01425 483144

Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements

White garden table and chairs £25, two sun loungers with mattresses £30, Kenwood chef with instructions, hardly used £45.

Ferndown. 01202 874911 Philips 7” portable DVD player including accessories. £20 cash only. Moordown, Bournemouth.

01202 773974 De Longhi coffee machine, hardly used £30. Vibra power fitness machine, remote control plus instructions £60. Bournemouth.

01202 572186

June 2015

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

Whilst the Publisher will endeavour to represent the best interests of the client in undertaking client’s instructions, it is fully understood that it is the agreed responsibility of the client to supply Viewpoint Magazine accurate copy details of the advertisement(s) to be placed and any alterations to the copy must be received prior to copy date.

Guarantee of insertion cannot be given and the Publisher shall not be liable for any loss or damage caused by any error or inaccuracy in the printing of an advertisement or by the total or partial failure, however caused, of publication or distribution of Viewpoint Magazine. In no case shall the total liablility of the Publisher for any misprint, error or omission exceed the price charged by the Publisher for that advertisement. The Publisher shall not be liable for any damage or loss save as stated and, in particular, the Publisher shall have no liability to the Advertiser in any circumstances for any claim for damages to, loss, of, or costs in respect of any anticipated profits, revenues, business opportunities or for any other indirect or consequential loss.

Claims for any error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement must be made within 10 days of publication to the Administration Department.

Advertisers are requested to check their advertisements after the first insertion. The Publisher will not be responsible for any errors on subsequent insertions, which have not been advised to them.

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Copyright of advertisements produced wholly by the Publisher belongs to the Publisher. Advertisers may not reproduce such advertisments without the Publisher’s consent.

Full details of copy dates are obtainable direct from Viewpoint Magazine and/or its representatives. The placing of an order for an advertisment shall amount to acceptance of these Terms and Conditions.

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VIEWPOINT April 2017

ASK THE

EXPERT

Nolan Irving

Q. Should I put my current home on the market first or wait until I find something that I would like to buy? I want to move but I’m concerned that there isn’t much out there for me to look at.

A. Now this is a question that I come up against all the time, especially in the current market and my answer is always the same: You should definitely put your own property on the market first.

I

fully appreciate that there is a shortage of properties on the market at the moment and potential sellers’ most common concerns are either: they don’t want to mess a potential buyer around as they haven’t found anything to buy or they feel that they are going to be committed to selling whether they find something or not.

The reality is that this simply is not the case, provided that

everything is conducted in an professional manner by your estate agent.

I agree that there is very little property sitting on the market at the moment but let’s say that you are fortunate enough to see something you like, the chances are that you are just going to keep missing out to a buyer who is in a better position to proceed than yourself.

Whereas if you secure a buyer first, you are in a far stronger

position to beat off the competition and secure your next home. After all, look at it from the perspective of the person you yourself are hoping to buy from, no doubt they are going to have plenty of interest in their home and which potential buyers are they going to be most interested in negotiating with?

A buyer who hasn’t put their own home on the market yet, or the one who is actually ready to make an offer and go ahead now.

I would suggest that you have a conversation with your estate agent before they do any work on your behalf and agree with them to proceed on the basis that you will only move when you find a suitable property. If you are perfectly straightforward with your agent they can make it clear to all potential buyers prior to them viewing your home. This way it is clear and you are therefore not misleading or messing anyone around. Then, once you find a buyer who is prepared to wait for you to find, you can make it a condition of a sale to them when accepting their offer.

Another advantage of selling first is that you are not under pressure to accept an early low offer in order to secure your dream home. Without putting yourself under pressure to sell quickly, your agent can focus on implementing their marketing strategy that will force the very best price for your home, which should be achievable in a very active seller’s market.

So in my opinion, it is always better to put your home on the market first and just be upfront and honest about your situation.

Once you have locked in a buyer, you can then focus on finding your next dream home, safe in the knowledge that you have a good chance of securing it.

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

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DORSET COMMUNITY FOUNDATION Celebrates Local Communities with a Dorset for All Event at Lulworth Castle

D

orset Community Foundation, which inspires local giving to raise donations for those most in need across the county, celebrated local philanthropy at Lulworth Castle in March. The Dorset for All event was attended by 150 people – including special guests Lady Fellowes, Kate Adie, the Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset Mr Angus Campbell, the High Sheriff of Dorset Sir Philip Williams and local philanthropists, professional advisers, businesses and representatives from local charitable trusts.

Jon Yates, chief executive at Dorset Community Foundation said, “We are so grateful to our ambassador Sara Weld who provided the magnificent venue and our headline sponsor Lester Aldridge. The event enabled us to gather together local people who are interested in making Dorset a great place for all. Our county is often considered very wealthy, but many are shocked to find out that one in six local residents lives in deprivation. Our vision is a fairer, thriving Dorset built on a culture of giving and philanthropy.”

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VIEWPOINT April 2017

Over the last 16 years Dorset Community Foundation has raised and distributed over £10 million to local community groups, small charities and individuals in need. The foundation works with local individuals, businesses and established trusts to channel their generosity to a cause or area in Dorset.

To find out more about the work of Dorset Community Foundation please visit www. dorsetcommunityfoundation.org Alternatively, if you are interested in giving locally or setting up your own fund with the Foundation, contact Jon Yates, chief executive at jon@dorsetcf.org or on 01202 670815.

Lighthouse launches groundbreaking schools partnership programme Eight local schools have been selected to become official partner schools in a groundbreaking new programme set to launch this month at Lighthouse, Poole’s Centre for the Arts.

The partnership will mean each school committing to bring students to see live performance at the centre and becoming champions for the arts within their communities.

As the programme develops, partner schools will be invited to see backstage and behind the scenes, get priority access to outreach workshops, receive careers talks from staff and access a range of opportunities.

Among the successful schools is Queen Elizabeth’s School in Wimborne.

Headteacher, Martin McLeman, said, “The governors, staff and students of Queen Elizabeth’s School are absolutely delighted, thrilled and excited about the invitation to become a partner school. Our school is aiming to offer a well-rounded education to all students where the Arts have a strong presence, to enrich the lives of students, staff and the wider community. A partnership such as this, enables us both to secure those aims of stimulating, enlightening and entertaining our local community.”

The eight partnership schools were officially welcomed into the programme at a reception at Lighthouse, when teachers had the opportunity to see young acrobats Barely Methodical Troupe performing their new show entitled Kin.

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

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