Viewpoint November 2016

Established Over 35 Years Mid Nov 2016

Your Independent Local Magazine

VIEWPOINT

Volume 41, Issue 1

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

take one it’s

POPPY PETALS LAUNCH APPEAL Dorset’s Poppy Appeal was launched at the Barrington in Ferndown on 29 October following a parade in Penny’s Walk led by the Bournemouth Youth Marching Band.

A poppy petal explosion fluttered from the roof of the theatre during two minutes silence before Gerry Nunn, chairman of Christchurch Royal Brtish Legion officially opened the appeal and veteran Mike Arnold MBE sold the first poppy to the Mayor of Ferndown, Cllr Mike Parkes.

Continued on page 7

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

Free

INSIDE THIS ISSU E

L-R Mayor of Ferndown Cllr Mike Parkes, Mick Arnold MBE and Chief Superintendent Colin Searle

• CHRISTMAS EV ENTS NEAR YOU! • MAN JAILED FO LLOWING FATAL COLLISION • WIMBORNE ST GILES FIRST SCHO OL ON TRACK FOR CHRIS TMAS SINGLE • COMPETITION : ORIGINAL JUKEBO X HEROES AT THE BA RRINGTON

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VIEWPOINT November 2016

VIEWPOINT Volume 41 • Issue 1 • November 2016 MAGS4DORSET HelloReaders, 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 Liz Turner assistant editor liz@mags4dorset.co.uk

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

I thought I was going to climb onto the roof of the Barrington Theatre for the Dorset Poppy Appeal launch, but in the end it wasn’t necessary. There are many out of the ordinary things that I do in pursuit of a good story or that perfect photograph and this has been my way of life for nearly 20 years.

Anyway, despite having my feet firmly anchored to the ground, at the moment a flurry of poppy petals exploded from the roof of the theatre, I managed to obtain a number of photos, some of which are included in this issue.

As well as the poppy appeal, Viewpoint has a lot of information in it about Christmas with details of events around the area as well as a few book reviews and other ideas for Christmas presents. There is also news of a book launch.

After three years at MAGS4DORSET, we say farewell to my assistant this month and wish her great happiness in her new job in Poole. Her final piece for the magazine was the Elm Tree review, which I know you will enjoy reading.

As we were waving goodbye to Liz, we had the pleasure welcoming a new member of staff: Adam Trimby who has now joined Louis in the design bureau.

Do enjoy reading this issue and get in touch if you have a story for us.

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:

25 NOVEMBER 2016 The Editor reserves the right to amend or shorten contributions in order to fit in with the editorial policy and style of the magazine

Pic of the month

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.

Best dressed poppy, Tilly Green from Ferndown (aged 6)

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Just

s w a s g Ji

If you love jigsaw puzzles, this is the social group for you

About to enter its six month, Just Jigsaws meets on a Wednesday afternoon at Wimborne Library. As the name suggests, the emphasis of the group is to bring together people who love making jigsaw puzzles, an activity which is often a solitary hobby, but which is just as enjoyable (and sometimes easier) when working with others. A cup of tea and a piece of cake also help the afternoon along.

Just Jigsaws has approximately 150 puzzles which can also be borrowed by those attending or calling in on a Wednesday afternoon between 2.30pm and 4.30pm. The group also offers a mobile lending library of puzzles.

For a small fee puzzles can be borrowed and these will be delivered and then collected after a week or fortnight. A catalogue of puzzles is available for borrowers to select ones they would like to make.

If you would like to be a borrower or know someone who would benefit from this service please e-mail justjigsawswimborne@ gmail.com or phone Ruth on 01202 880827.

Otherwise, why not pop in on Wednesday afternoon at Wimborne Library.

Just Jigsaws was originally funded by Dorset POPP – Partnership of Older People Programme.

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VIEWPOINT November 2016

, Santa street parade street fair and switch on!

It’s all happening in Fordingbridge on Friday 2 December 2016 The annual Christmas Lights switch on follows a Santa street parade, street fair and carol service around the Christmas tree outside the town hall. Shops will also be open late for some early Christmas shopping.

This year the entertainment will be extended into the Avonway Centre, featuring a teenage market as well as entertainment and stalls along the High Street, Shaftesbury Street, Roundhills, Salisbury Street and Provost Street.

The fun starts at 5.30pm with Santa leaving Roundhills at 5.55pm to travel to his special grotto in the town hall.

Fordingbridge Town Council says: “Watch out for details of the Christmas Window competition, with a change to previous years – this year we would like the community to judge the many splendid windows that will be on display. Please watch the council’s website for further details – full timetable will be published nearer to the event. www. fordingbridge.gov.uk.”

School choir wins recording contract for Christmas single Wimborne St Giles First School choir is celebrating being chosen to record a backing track for a new single to be released in time for Christmas.

T

he track, written by Mike Barron, needed depth and when the chairman of East Dorset District Council, David Shortell, heard a choir was required, he organised a fund-raising event to find one. A panel of four judges, along with a full capacity audience at the Barrington Theatre in Ferndown, listened

to choirs from six local schools perform on stage on 18 October.

The judges, Mike Barron, Jenny Oag, Phil Webster from Forest FM and Janine Pulford the editor of Viewpoint, had a difficult decision, but agreed that Wimborne St Giles’ choir singing ‘Life Is A Wonderful Thing’ was the winner.

The Mayor and Mayoress of Bournemouth supported the event and said they were looking forward to hearing the Christmas single.

The schools that took part were: Ferndown First, St Mary’s CofE First (West Moors), Hampreston First, St Ives Primary, St John’s First (Wimborne) and Wimborne St Giles First School.

For the record, Wimborne St Giles First School has a total of 53 pupils and 31 of them sang in the choir.

All six choirs received certificates and the money raised on the night will go to the chairman’s chosen charities: John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation in support of Ferndown Upper School Centre of Excellence and Industrial Liaison and the Multiple Sclerosis Society for Bournemouth and District.

Hampreston First School sang a medley

Wimborne St Giles First School on track

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

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New Forest Gunpowder blown away over time

By Julian Hewitt, Fordingbridge Museum

I

n 1871 residents of Fordingbridge heard a massive bang when 740 lbs of explosive were accidentally ignited at the gunpowder factory at Eyeworth. It marked the last day in

the life of James Mills, a worker at the factory, whose head was found buried in earth 40 yards from where he had been standing. Many buildings on the site were destroyed and bricks were found half a mile from the site of the explosion.

The production of gunpowder began at Eyeworth Lodge near Fritham in 1859, but it was not until 1869 that the lease of the property was sold to The Schultze Gunpowder Company for £500. In 1864 Edward Schultze, a Prussian artillery officer, had perfected a method of producing gunpowder that produced less smoke and recoil when used in guns. Although he does

RESERVOIR

POST BOX

not seem to have been directly involved in the company that used his name, it was to become the largest manufacturer of gunpowder in the world.

By 1895 it had over 100 employees working in 2 shifts, 24 hours a day, 6 days a week producing 20,000 lbs of gunpowder a week.

Powder Mill Road was constructed from the factory to the Fordingbridge to Cadnam road to move the dangerous material avoiding the village of Fritham.

Forty horses stabled at the factory and the occasional traction engine transported the powder.

The 60 buildings on site contained duplicated plant so that, in the event of an accident, production could continue. Any buildings likely to go up with a bang were built of flimsy material so that they could be replaced cheaply.

There is now little evidence of what was once such a large industrial undertaking.

Wages reflected the dangers.

Workers earned £1 a week compared to agricultural workers’ earnings of 12 shillings. A reservoir was constructed to provide the large quantity of water used by the factory. Some of the chemicals used were quite strong and when a local farmer complained about pollution killing fish, the factory management responded that, there is “no cause for alarm” as, “the acids used at the works are nitre and sulphuric acids both of which are used in medicine and administered to invalids as tonics.”

In 1918 the company was taken over and merged with other companies to eventually become part of Imperial Chemical Industries and production was moved.

There is now little evidence of what was once such a large industrial undertaking.

Eyeworth Lodge is now a private house as is the Foreman’s house, which stands near the gate where the gatekeeper would search employees for tobacco and matches.

Some of the stables can still be seen, a few of the outlying buildings are now used as farm buildings and the reservoir is now a local beauty spot.

Sharp-eyed visitors might see, near the entrance to the car park at Fritham, a cast iron black post box that the company installed to save the postman a trip down the hill to the factory.

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VIEWPOINT November 2016

Continued from front page

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Poppy petals launch appeal Hundreds gathered at the Barrington for the service and Gerry Nunn said, “Every week, 52 weeks a year the Royal British Legion spends 1.25M (about £80M a year) [providing support for the Armed Forces community]. We know the people of Ferndown will give very generously.”

He paid tribute to stalwart Mike Arnold who has been associated with the poppy appeal for many years. Young Tilly

Green aged 6, dressed in a poppy outfit made by her grandmother Valerie Smith, helped sell the first poppies. Grant Parrott, chairman of the Royal British Legion in Ferndown said a big thank you to all those involved with organising the launch event, which was a first for the town.

A big cheer went up when it was announced that the Orange Teapot had won the best dressed window competition.

Winner of the ‘Best Dressed Poppy competition’ Tilly Green (6) from Ferndown. She is pictured here with two Royal British Legion Riders, ‘Lump ’ from Bournemouth and veteran Ivor from St Leonards, who is the new count y rep for the riders. More photos on page 46.

Poppy explosion

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FATAL CRASH BLAMED ON BARBIE APP – MOTHER SENTENCED A Verwood woman who killed a man in a headon collision after being distracted by a mobile phone was sentenced at Bournemouth Crown Court on 21 October.

Bekki Mills, 25, pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving. She received an eight-month prison sentence suspended for two years, was ordered to carry out 200 hours community work and handed a two-year disqualification from driving. She was told she would need to take an extended driving test before she could get her licence back.

Mills was driving her Audi A4 along the A350 in Blandford with her two children on 9 November 2015. The court heard that due to being distracted by a mobile phone, Mills crossed

the carriageway and clipped a Ford Galaxy before colliding head-on with a Peugeot 3008. The Peugeot’s passenger – 86-year-old Joseph Willis from Shillingstone – died as a result of the collision. While being treated at the scene, two police officers overheard Mills say: “I was looking at my daughter’s phone when I went to overtake,” and “It’s my fault, I was looking at something on my daughter’s phone.” Police found that at the time of the collision a Barbie app was running. Both Mills and the 64-year-old female driver of the Peugeot were injured and the 41-year-old male driver of the Ford from Shaftesbury sustained bruising. The children were uninjured. Police Sergeant Mark Farrow, of Dorset Police’s Road Traffic Unit, said, “This was a tragic and completely avoidable collision which resulted in one man losing his life.” He added that motorists are constantly warned of the dangers of driving while distracted and said “tragically this case acts as a stark reminder of this.”

Daniel Parkin

Column supplied

by Wessex Pensions

Give yourself a potential pay rise Following the reduction in Bank of England base rate in August to 0.25% I thought I would see how this could have an impact on retirement planning. I met with Darren Long, a mortgage adviser at Archway Financial Solutions, to discuss mortgages rates as I am often asked whether individuals should pay more into their pension or pay more of their mortgage. In fact, you could do both. As such, I thought it would be interesting to hear Darren’s thoughts.

Legal & General, Darren told me, have reviewed both 2 and 3 year fix rate mortgages and have shown that, on average, rates have fallen by 0.2% since the beginning of 2016. He has been encouraging clients to take advantage of record low mortgage rates by remortgaging to a new deal now. This can either be done by contacting the existing lender for a cheaper deal, or transferring to another lender.

Darren also advised that data sourced this month shows that the current mortgage market standard variable rate is 4.64%. His most recent client remortgaged to another lender for £150,000 and saved over £200 per month. That equates to over £2,400 per annum and for a basic rate taxpayer would equate to a pay rise of over £3,000.

Further to that, my thoughts were that if this £200 per month mortgage saving was then invested in a pension then the tax relief increases the contribution to £250 per month. Just by speaking to a mortgage adviser can not only save you money, but reinvested wisely could potentially make your retirement a bit easier. Darren Long can be contacted on 01425 600616.

For more information about pensions, telephone Daniel Parkin on 07801 432182 Address: 17 Headlands Business Park, Salisbury Road, Ringwood, Hampshire, BH24 3PB

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VIEWPOINT November 2016

Join us

Established 50 years ago, PROBUS is a PROfessional and BUSinessmen’s club.

“Once a person has retired, they can find themselves at a loss for something to do,” says Roy Slade, president of Verwood branch. “We offer a club where men can make friends with others in the same situation and organise outings and meetings.”

The Verwood branch meets for a coffee morning once a month at Crane Valley Golf Club; a club meeting with meal and a speaker takes place on the third Tuesday of every month at midday. For details contact Mike Reed, the club secretary on 01202 829155.

Tube cutting CEREMONY! The Mayor of Verwood, Cllr Susan Shaw cut a bicycle tyre inner tube to officially open a new bike shed at Emmanuel Middle School.

Members of the school’s bike crew watched along with Sharon Savage and June Brunning, chairs of the PTA and Elaine Robertson, head of well-being. The mayor also presented headteacher Jill Watson with a bronze mark award from Sustrans.

WITNESS APPEAL AFTER COLLISIONS WITNESSES ARE BEING SOUGHT FOLLOWING TWO ACCIDENTS IN THE VERWOOD AREA

O

ne, sadly, was fatal. It occurred on Ringwood Road, Three Legged Cross at 2am on 8 October. A black Ford Ranger collided with a white Ford Transit van. The driver of the Transit, a 49-year-old man from Shepton Mallet died from his injuries. A 26-year-old male passenger in the van suffered neck and spinal injuries and was taken to Poole Hospital. A 28-year-old man and 21-year-old woman, both from Shaftesbury, were arrested on suspicion of driving offences.

The second accident, on 20 October at 5.44pm, was a four-vehicle collision on the B3081 close to the Bakers Hanging junction which leads to Alderholt. It involved a grey Seat Leon, a black Land Rover registered to a company from Verwood, a red Vauxhall Astra registered to a woman from Verwood and a silver Mitsubishi Colt registered to a woman from Bournemouth.

The driver of the Seat, a man from Bournemouth aged in his 30s, had to be freed from his car by the fire service. He was taken to Southampton General Hospital after sustaining hip, pelvis and rib injuries.

Anyone with information about either collision is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 8:53 (Three Cross) or 55160158961 (Bakers Hanging). Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

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

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Livestock Markets As part of our duties we visit Shaftesbury cattle market and ‘on farm’ sales of livestock, checking transportation, cattle identification, general health and welfare, paperwork and bio security.

In 1997 Sturminster Newton Livestock Market, which also sold local cheese and had a brica-brac shop, was shut down after trading for around 775 years. It was a massive blow for the town and surrounding area and changed the local people’s lives forever. It used to trade in dairy and store cattle, pigs, sheep and sometimes goats. It was also a long day for us in animal health. We had our own shed within the market where we would issue pig licences for all the pigs that day in market. It was situated on the hill where the corn exchange and Co-op supermarket are today. The cold wind would whistle down the hill and when you got the chance you would try and rush inside to get warm around the little Calor gas stove before losing all sensation in your feet and hands, yes it could get very cold up there.

During the early-90s, I would regularly check more than 600 calves there in a morning. Before my time, there could be in excess of 800 calves - at that time it was the largest calf market in Europe.

Furry FUND-RAISERS Waggy Tails Rescue is a registered charity based in Dorset that re-homes dogs that have been abandoned, neglected or otherwise in need of a new home. The charity also finds homes for other small, furry animals.

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VIEWPOINT November 2016

Sturminster Newton was famous for its cheese, Tasty Cheese always a favourite. I would be given a cheese order from my work colleagues and could easily spend £20 on cheese to take back.

These days Shaftesbury Livestock Market is the only market we are left to visit in Dorset.

With the arrival of autumn it gets busier.

Many farmers do not want to enter the winter overloaded with cattle.

There again, in winter, Shaftesbury market always seems a couple of degrees colder than most places so an extra jumper is usually required. Time allowing, they do have a small restaurant which serves a jolly good roast lunch.

Occasionally we are required to go along to farm dispersal sales where all the cattle have to be sold. This is always a sad day and quite distressing for the farmer concerned whether it be for financial reasons or just having to retire on health grounds. Many farmers just seem to carry on with never a thought of retiring.

Christine and Karen Animal Health Officers

If you wish to have any more information on the subject of animal health please contact us on 01305 224475, or visit Dorsetforyou.com and follow the links to Trading Standards, Animal Health pages.

Their next fund-raising events are: 24 November - Skittles at the Hamworthy Club 17 December - Christmas Craft Fair at the Barrington Centre, Penny’s Walk, Ferndown BH22 9TH. To purchase tickets for the skittles, contact fundraising@waggytails.org.uk or call 07432 488666. www.waggytails.org.uk

MAGS4DORSET’S charity of the year

CHERRY TREE NURSERY Cherry Tree Nursery – appealing to the senses

Cherry Tree Nursery is the Bournemouth-based project of the registered charity the Sheltered Work Opportunities Project (SWOP) which provides meaningful occupation in a supportive horticultural environment, aiming to restore well-being to people with mental illness.

O

ver the summer, the plant nursery volunteers participated in the “Fl-utter-ances” arts project. It involved listening, analysing and mapping the sounds heard at Cherry Tree and at Hengistbury.

There are many sounds made by plants, especially when the wind blows.

Bamboo is a good example.

The rustling sounds can create a calming environment and can be used to create a sensory garden.

A sensory garden should ideally stimulate all the senses. Scent is an easy starting point, as so many plants have fragrant aromatic flowers, stems and leaves.

Herbs such as lavender and

rosemary evoke memories for many people, and thoughts of scents can lead on to those of taste, helping to arouse the taste buds.

Textures are a wonderful aspect. Think of the soft furry feel of lamb’s ear (stachys) or cool moss or rough seed pods. The final sense is that of sight – whether textures, shapes or colours, remember the soothing nature of green.

It is also important to incorporate the sense that plants can provide shade, security, shelter, privacy and quietness. They can also be used to attract wildlife.

Just the presence of plants, flowers, water and wildlife has a healing effect.

Cherry Tree can help you find information on plants and help you choose the best plants to stimulate awareness and memory.

Cherry Tree Nursery New Road Northbourne.

01202 593537

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VIEWPOINT November 2016

in health and fitness Doug Cameron and Linda Sessions from Stewarts, Linda Tazzyman from No 9, Cllr Shortell and Steve and Sandra Bond from Sorrells.

Healthy Options awards

for food businesses Three local food businesses have been recognised with Healthy Options awards

by Christchurch and East Dorset Councils.

Sorrels Caterers of Wimborne, Stewarts Garden Centre Coffee Shop in Christchurch and Number 9 on the Green in Wimborne were all presented with their awards by the Chairman of East Dorset District Council, Cllr David Shortell.

The Healthy Options scheme was introduced by the public health team to support businesses wanting to promote healthier food choices to their customers. The councils joined forces with Dorset Healthcare dietician service to set the criteria and asked the three local businesses to take part in the pilot scheme.

Rachel Taylor, regulatory business support officer, said: “It has been a pleasure working alongside these businesses during the pilot and their input and feedback has been invaluable. We hope that the award will become well recognised and that our residents and visitors will have a greater choice of healthier options when dining out.’’

The councils are hoping more local food businesses will take part in the scheme. For more information call 01202 795349 or contact rtaylor@christchurchandeastdorset.gov.uk.

- Advertising feature -

Learn, Like, Love, Live Swimming How about this for a great offer - join the children’s swim lesson programme at Ferndown Leisure Centre for £20.16 with nothing more to pay until 1 January. The offer runs from the 1-30 November and includes one swim lesson per week and free swimming per child during welcome sessions.

staying close to adult support before progressing to the Duckling stage which requires more independence.

Ducklings 2-5years This programme is targeted at children who have gained a level of water confidence and are ready for more independent practices.

The Duckling Awards encourage swimmers to move more independently whilst under close supervision.

Dementia gardening group celebrates first harvest in Wimborne A bumper crop of beans, beetroot, sweet peas and ruby chard has been harvested by a Wimborne-based gardening group for people with dementia and their carers.

Since March, the group has been enjoying the beautiful location of the National Trust allotments on the Kingston Lacy Estate in Wimborne.

As part of the ‘Step Outside’ project set up by Wimborne Dementia Friendly Community and facilitated by the Alzheimer’s Society, gardeners have transformed patches of weeds into beautiful and productive raised beds.

Thanks to additional funding the project will be returning to the allotments in spring 2017.

The words of one carer sum up this project: “We like being active and outdoors and I wanted a comfortable environment for my husband, where he could carry out tasks in a nonjudgemental atmosphere. We have enjoyed the friendliness and the banter, my husband has looked forward to it and been more engaged than with many other things that we do.”

Anyone with a diagnosis of dementia who is interested in joining the group should contact Alzheimer’s Society’s Sarah Rampton on 01202 764352.

To find out more visit alzheimers.org. uk/localinformation or contact 01202 764352 or email: admindorset@ alzheimers.org.uk.

Adult swim lessons Would you like to improve your swim technique? The leisure centre has adult improver swimming lessons, duration 60 minutes with Janet Latham on Sundays 5.30-6.30pm.

Contact the Swim Team on 01202 877468 option 2 for more information or visit www. ferndownleisurecentre. co.uk

New Duckling swim programme Be a push and glide ahead of the pack with the latest nationally recognised swim classes designed for parents and children from 4 months – 4 years.

Discovery Ducklings 0-24 months This programme is aimed at babies and young children who are new to swimming.

Discovery Ducklings is delivered as an adult and child class and is the ideal way to start your swim journey. The child builds water confidence whilst Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

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view from VERWOOD

‘Playlist for Life’ makes a big difference

AT WAYPOINTS VERWOOD A specialist dementia care home in Verwood, has just introduced the ‘Playlist for Life’ scheme, playing over 300 songs specially chosen by all its residents.

By playing the personalised selection, Waypoints Verwood has made a big impact on its residents, helping them to connect to their memories, improving their awareness and their sense of independence.

Activities co-ordinator at the care home, Emilia Tubisz, said, “I asked residents and their relatives and friends to compile a list of their favourite songs and artists, which included anything from The Rolling Stones to Frank Sinatra and ABBA!” The songs were downloaded onto an MP3 player and played through the sound system.

Emilia added, “After the first week of playing the

songs, I could see the mood changes in some of the residents. One of the ladies likes the classical music such as Pavarotti and when she heard the song I asked her what she thought. She smiled and said ‘this is lovely, I like this kind of music’.

Another lady started to sing when she heard some of the Doris Day songs from ‘The Pajama Game’ musical, and there was also a gentleman who heard a classical piece of music and he sat there smiling with his eyes closed.

Another day, there were two ladies who started to dance around the bistro when they heard their song! – it’s great to see the impact the scheme has had on the residents.”

Chief executive of Playlist for Life, Sarah Metcalfe, said, “Personally meaningful music can be a uniquely powerful tool to improve life for people living with dementia. We provide tools and training to people with dementia, their families and carers to harness its powerful effects.

It is great to hear the good

(From l-r): Residents Anne and Brian with Waypoints Verwood’s activities co-ordinator Emilia Tubisz and head of care Cristy Jones

practice being developed by Waypoints Verwood.”

Waypoints Verwood is one of three specialist dementia care homes within the Waypoints Care Group. Each home is purpose-built and designed specifically for people living with dementia, including beautifully decorated rooms, wider corridors and some even feature a circular walking route, to aid freedom of movement.

The Waypoints ethos is to make all residents feel as comfortable, safe and happy as possible, supporting them throughout the different stages of dementia.

For more details about Waypoints Verwood, call 01202 812250 or go to www. waypoints-care.co.uk For details about the Playlist for Life scheme, go to www.playlistforlife.org.uk

All aboard, me hearties!

Verwood Pantomime Society presents Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic tale of Treasure Island. Produced by Alan P Frayn, the show opens on 21 January at the Hub in Verwood.

Further performances are on 25, 27 and 28 January. There will be evening performances on all days and matinees at 2pm on the first and last dates.

Tickets for what promises to be a cracking panto are available from the box office on 01202 828740.

Verwood Family Church

Vibrant worship, relevant teaching and children’s activities. A place for love, belonging, acceptance, forgiveness, meaning, destiny, healing and laughter every Sunday, 10am at The Hub.

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VIEWPOINT November 2016

view from VERWOOD

From one council to another

PUDSEY CAME EARLY!

Pudsey Bear put in an early appearance on 9 October. He popped into the Piano-thon at the Hub, which was raising money for BBC Children In Need. Pudsey made one little boy’s day by ‘gate-crashing’ his birthday party and to everyone’s delight he stayed to have his photo taken with them.

Pudsey was due to return to Verwood again on 18 November to put in a guest appearance at the BBC Children in Need fund-raising Variety Performance at the Hub.

Councillor Susan Shaw, Mayor of Verwood, visited Trinity CEVA First School Verwood on 16 September to present badges to the elected members of the school council.

She was welcomed by the headteacher Mrs JM Green and the children were excited to meet the mayor. In return they were invited to visit the town council chambers.

Jules the entertainer meets Pudsey

Housing dominates the political agenda

By Cllr Simon Gibson

Cllr Simon Gibson

W

hen discussing local issues with my residents in Verwood, and indeed across the district, one issue has arisen more often recently than ever before – housing. It should not have escaped anyone’s attention that housing is starting to dominate the political agenda both nationally and in many local council areas.

I have been privileged to be the councillor responsible for housing for the past three years. This role is mainly focussed on the council’s housing services rather than the building of new homes but it has reinforced my concerns that getting a suitable home in Dorset is far too hard for many people.

I receive regular emails from frustrated residents who are struggling to find an affordable home. The majority of residents who have contacted me are young people, or their parents, who want to live in the community that they grew up in, but cannot find a suitable home. I believe that this is a perfectly reasonable desire and it is also vital for the long term prosperity of our community.

I also receive many enquiries from residents who need housing support from the council and are unable to get the help that they seek. East Dorset has an expanding housing waiting list and without building more properties, I fear this will only increase further.

Much has been made of proposals for housing developments across our district. I fully understand the concerns raised by local residents about the impact of further housing on roads, schools and the natural environment.

However, where sites have been identified for housing, it is absolutely vital that we build the right type of homes.

Affordable housing, to buy and for rent, must be a key consideration and not an afterthought. The council must lead on this issue and as a result I brought a motion to Council to this effect. I was delighted that it received cross party political support and I look forward to providing more details in future columns.

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

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view from VERWOOD

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

Free legal clinics in Verwood

F

ollowing the success of Harold G Walker’s monthly free Legal Clinic in West Moors the firm has launched an additional advice centre to serve the Verwood community.

Local lawyers will be available to offer free legal advice on a variety of subjects, including: family law, conveyancing, wills and probate, employment law as well as dispute resolution.

Whether you need advice on creating a will, selling or buying a property, considering separation from your partner or have a legal dispute, Harold G Walker’s Verwood team will be available to offer valuable advice and guidance.

For further details please contact Harold G Walker Solicitors on 01202 823308 or email verwood@hgwalker.co.uk

Scouts help Brooke

W

hen 2nd Verwood Ararat Scouts heard that the Bournemouth and Poole Vintage Vehicle Society were going to give them £200 for helping out with car parking duties at one of the society’s events, the Scouts had a ‘pow wow’.

Whereas donations made to the group are usually put towards subsidising Scout camps, this time the money will be donated by the Scouts towards the purchase of a specialist bed for six-year-old Verwood girl Brooke, who has cerebral palsy quadriplegia.

Skip of the Scout troop, Andy Maw, said “Having just helped out at the local Zumbathon, which was raising funds for Brooke’s new bed, we realised that her needs are greater than ours.”

Mayor’s poppy

purchase

Verwood Mayor, Councillor Mrs Susan Shaw purchased the first poppy in the town from Mr Bob Richmond, the Honorary Poppy Appeal Organiser. They are pictured by the Memorial Stone on Ferrett Green.

Remembrance Day is on Sunday 13 November.

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VIEWPOINT November 2016

Verwood Ext Satur Where?

Make a note that Ferrett Green will come alive on the evening of Saturday, 10 December for the annual Verwood Christmas Extravaganza 2016!

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

travaganza rday 10 December 2016 Free Rides!

The children will be able to enjoy free rides with all donations going to the Community Christmas – a heartwarming event that takes place at Crane Valley for people on their own at Christmas.

Lights Switch On The annual Extravaganza leads up to the official Christmas lights switch on.

This is usually carried out by the town mayor who this year is Cllr Susan Shaw.

Father Christmas in his grotto Father Christmas never misses a Verwood Extravaganza and 2016 will be no exception. He will be in his grotto giving away presents to all the good children and accepting wish lists, courtesy of the Rotary Club of Verwood. Santa is usually accompanied by elves and sometimes has a glamorous attendant too!

Mulled wine and mince pies

Live entertainment

There are always bands and singers up for taking centre stage, so pop on by and find out who will be entertaining this year.

Stalls

As usual the Scouts and local churches will have fund-raising stalls.

Contact the town council, who run the event (with help from the local Rotary club), to find out more.

What time?

Verwood Town Council know the children can’t wait for events like this, so it starts early at 5pm and finishes at the respectable hour of 8pm.

Make it an Extravaganza to remember by joining in with your community for a big dose of Christmas cheer on Ferrett Green.

A cup of mulled wine and a festive mince pie will get you in the Christmas spirit. Look out for the stall.

Carols around the Christmas tree

No Christmas would be the same without a few carols. With music by Verwood Concert Brass, why not come along and sing those wellknown favourites with a hearty voice.

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

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Image: FreeImages.com/Flavio Takemoto

in for a bite

Christmas

s e i t r pa Celebrate

le in Stythis

Christmas

It’s that time of year again when thoughts turn to Christmas and very importantly seasonal celebrations.

Whether you want to book a fun-packed Christmas party for friends or work colleagues or just enjoy a special meal out with family, then read on and see what these specially selected advertisers can suggest to make your celebrations go with a swing.

You may want to dress up and enjoy the red carpet treatment this Christmas, or maybe mark the end of the year with a night out to remember, but one thing is certain – it’s time to make your reservations.

Don’t get left out in the cold this Christmas – plan ahead and get ready to sparkle.

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VIEWPOINT November 2016

in for a bite

Modern twist on the ever-popular burger

Back to basics,

good honest food at

The ElmTree Review by Liz Turner

THERE’S NO AVOIDING IT – AUTUMN IS WELL and TRULY HERE But instead of grumbling about the nights drawing in, diners in Ringwood are taking the opportunity to celebrate all that is best about classic British pub food.

modern twist on the everpopular burger. After I’d ordered I saw the meals arrive for the couple at the table next to us. They’d both gone for the rack of ribs and I was tempted to which was virtually full. Then he Elm Tree, on alter my choice, but pleased we were faced with the Highfield Road, I didn’t. My veggie burger dilemma of what to order. has embraced was superb. Served with a With a choice including the change of fresh salad, the dish was scampi and chips, steak the seasons by colourful and mouthwatering. and ale pie with vegetables introducing a new menu I could have had chips but and mash or chips and half offering hearty, warming, was pleased I’d gone for the a roast chicken we were traditional pub food. sweet potato fries, which struggling to decide. There The menu is proving were beautifully crisp. was also a selection from the so popular, I was delighted The selection of desserts grill including beef or pork to accept an invitation from was just as challenging burger, chicken fajitas and manager Phil Robertson to when it came to making a sirloin steak. And lastly the try out the dishes created by decision. Unfortunately his new chef. there was no treacle The recent trend My veggie burger was superb. tart left, Hannah’s towards bistro style Served with a fresh salad, the dish favourite, so she chose food sometimes sees New York cheesecake the old favourites like was colourful and mouthwatering. and honeycomb ice pies, battered fish and I could have had chips but was cream while I went for even ham, egg and pleased I’d gone for the sweet potato the fruits of the forest chips, disappear from fries, which were beautifully crisp. crème brulee with lime pub menus. My children shortbread. Two empty have always enjoyed bowls were testimony classic British food and when to the quality of the food. To chef’s specials - chilli, curry cooking a family meal, I be honest, we were both so and even liver and bacon. generally go for shepherd’s full that we shouldn’t have In the end Hannah pie, gammon, or chicken. eaten so much dessert but couldn’t resist the sausage So when I arrived at The neither of us wanted to miss and mash which was served Elm Tree with my daughter out on such lovely food. with onion gravy and freshly Hannah, we were looking We were both relieved cooked kale and mange tout. forward to tucking into some we’d decided not to have a Her empty plate was proof of traditional food. starter – tempting though it how much she enjoyed the The Elm Tree is a had been. BBQ wings, soup delicious flavours. wonderful thatched country and chilli and garlic prawns I chose Halloumi, pub with wooden beams will have to wait until our next mushroom and roasted and a cosy interior. With visit. pepper burger with sweet welcoming smiles from Phil The Elm Tree serves potato fries – not necessarily and his team, we were shown Greene King beers, along traditional pub food, but a to our table in the restaurant,

T

with a wide selection of ciders, lagers, spirits and wines – and of course, soft drinks. We both had a chilled glass of medium rose wine which was the perfect accompaniment to our meals.

Amy our waitress was friendly and attentive throughout, again extending that welcome that we felt as soon as we arrived.

The Elm Tree was especially busy the night we dined. As well as being a Saturday evening, there were two functions going on meaning the kitchen was also serving food for a wedding party and birthday celebrations. However our meals were not affected at all and the service couldn’t have been better.

The pub serves food Monday to Saturday, from noon–9.30pm and on

Sunday from noon–8pm.

The restaurant seats 50 and meals can also be served in the bar area. There are special menus, including the popular pizza and a pint for £9.95 on Saturdays, and two steaks and a bottle of wine for £25 on Thursdays.

Classic pub food has been welcomed back at The Elm Tree by customers, but there is still plenty of choice for those wanting something a bit different. And with a kids’ menu as well, there’s something for all the family.

Phil explained that a lot of his customers are regulars. They clearly know a good thing when they see it. Hannah and I were delighted to be let into the secret and discover how The Elm Tree lives up to its claims to be a ‘Dining pub with back to basics, good honest food’.

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

| 21

RINGWOOD NEWS

Ringwood Regal launch Crowdfunding The Ringwood Regal Group has set up a Crowdfunding page to finance a full feasibility study into its plans for the former cinema.

U+I Group PLC, the developers who own the Furlong Shopping Centre and the Ringwood Regal building have told the group that they would be prepared to sell the Regal with a initial figure of £2m mentioned. Ringwood Regal group says it is now in a position to seriously consider its next move.

It explained: “The most important step is to complete a full feasibility study, including relevant building surveys and business planning to check the viability of the creation and operation of the Ringwood Regal Multi-Function Entertainment facility in the market place. From the work already carried out we are already quite confident of the viability of this project. The cost of this is estimated at £15,000. So this is our first target.”

The group is asking the public and businesses to pledge donations on www.crowdfunder.co.uk/ringwood-regal-feasibility The group added: “If we reach our goal of £5,000 through this route, the Heritage Lottery Fund will also consider matching these donations, so we ask our supporters to be generous. We have also approached the Architectural Heritage Fund, who has said we may be eligible for development funding from them. This application is in process, and the first stage of this would give us £5,000 towards our feasibility costs. This programme is also designed to meet the requirements of the Heritage Lottery Fund so securing this funding will support any future application to them to transform the Regal building.

For more details go to www.ringwood-regal.co.uk

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VIEWPOINT November 2016

Topaz NOVEMBER’S BIRTHSTONE –

By David of Fields jewellers

T

he name topaz comes from a Sanskrit word meaning fire.

According to ancient lore, it could be used to control heat and was applied as medication to cure fever. It was said to have the power to cool boiling water, as well as excessive anger.

Topaz occurs in a range of magnificent colours – blue, pale green, varying shades of yellow, pink, red, brown and even black. Pure topaz itself is a colourless stone, the coloured variants occur due to minor element substitutions and defects in the crystal.

Because of its rarity, topaz is an expensive gem.

The rarest colour - and therefore the most valuable - is red. Imperial topaz sherry coloured varieties of brownish-yellow, orangey yellow and reddish brown are the most popular topaz stones and command high prices, as do pink coloured stones. Light blue and pale yellow topaz are of less value, but are nevertheless stunning in beauty.

Students support dementia patients Students from Ringwood Waldorf School have been making twiddle mitts for dementia patients at Royal Bournemouth Hospital (RBH).

‘Twiddle mitts’ are knitted mittens or hand-warmers with tactile objects such as beads, buttons and bobbles attached to them and are proven to calm anxiety and comfort patients. Students from years five and six presented the ‘twiddle mitts’ to the nurses, which they had worked on as part of a weekly craft project.

RBH specialist dementia nurses, Rachael Davies, Kelly Lockyer and Lauren Daughtrey, spoke to the students about dementia and explained the difference the mitts make to patients.

Kelly said: “One of our patients was actually brought to tears when given a twiddle mitt. The patient felt it was such an individual gift and really showed how much someone cared for her.

“It was wonderful “One of our patients to be able to explain to was actually brought the children just how important the twiddle to tears when given mitts are and to use real life stories to illustrate a twiddle mitt. The the effect they have on patient felt it was our patients.”

The students will such an individual gift continue making the and really showed twiddle mitts to provide ongoing support to how much someone patients at RBH and cared for her.” their teacher, Gitta Cooper, plans to make it an annual project. Gitta said: “The project to create the twiddle mitts was such a success in encouraging the creativity of our class. The pupils felt a real sense of engagement with the patients they were making the twiddle mitts for and it was great that staff from the hospital came to tell them more about dementia and how the twiddle mitts will be used.”

Rachael said: “We would like to say a huge thank you to all of the children and staff at the school. Their hard work means we have more beautiful twiddle mitts for our patients.

It’s a lovely example of the local community coming together to support some of our most vulnerable patients.”

RINGWOOD NEWS

FATAL COLLISION

that robbed children of their mother Twenty-five-year-old Lewis Paul Faulkner from Dorchester, was jailed on 17 October for four years and four months after causing a collision which killed a Ringwood woman and seriously injured her children

T

he collision occurred on the A31 near Lake Gates in Wimborne on 10 June 2015.

Tereasa Cutler, had been to her sister’s funeral and was on her way to the wake.

She was with her son Daniel, then aged 16; daughter Alice, 18 and nephew Joe Woodland. Tereasa had just taken on parental responsibility for Joe, 19, following his mother’s death.

The court heard that Faulkner was driving his BMW and failed to negotiate a gradual bend. His vehicle collided head-on with Tereasa’s Ford Fiesta, which was hurled into a nearside hedge. Sadly, 49-year-old Tereasa died at the scene.

Alice, Daniel and Joe sustained serious injuries.

Faulkner and his 22-year-old front seat passenger were also seriously injured.

A blood test revealed that whilst there was no alcohol in Faulkner’s system there were traces of cannabis and ecstasy. Although below the legal limit, a toxicologist claimed Faulkner could have been experiencing the come-down effects which can cause fatigue and lack of awareness.

In a police interview, Faulkner said he could not give an explanation for the collision.

No defects were found with either vehicles and Faulkner’s mobile phone was not being used at the time of the collision. The court heard he was driving in connection with his work, but his insurance did not cover him for that.

During the hearing Alice read out her victim impact statement. She said: “On 10 June 2015 my life changed forever. I lost my mum, my best friend and became an orphan. Not only did this event change my life, it irreparably changed the life of my brother Daniel, my cousin Joseph, my Aunt and Uncle Julie and Steven - my entire family.”

She added that the emotional impact of the

accident has changed her.

She no longer feels safe in a car. “I no longer feel safe and reassured because it has been demonstrated to me that things like this really do happen to ordinary families. People take risks that they shouldn’t whilst driving: things that ultimately make our roads unsafe,” she continued. “I feel vulnerable on a daily basis because I do not have my mum there to comfort me and guide me.

Instead, all I have is a grave which provides me with little comfort. An accident like this changes you: you see the world differently.

“The reality of the impact of this accident is that today I should not be here. I should be at home with my mum and my brother enjoying our life together which Mum had worked so hard to provide for us.

“Instead I am stood here today mourning the needless loss of my mum’s life which was so unnecessary. I will grow up without my mum.

My children will not know their grandmother and there will be an empty seat at our weddings where mum should have been had it not been for

the 10 June last year.”

Faulkner was sentenced at Bournemouth Crown Court after pleading guilty to causing death by dangerous driving, three counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and one of causing death while uninsured. He was also handed an extended driving disqualification for four years and eight months and told he would have to taken an extended re-test before getting his licence back.

Police Sergeant Lee Savage, of Dorset Police’s Road Traffic Unit, said: “We still do not know why Faulkner failed to negotiate the bend and caused this head-on collision. The prosecution case was that he must have fallen asleep

and this case highlights the dangers of driving while tired and after using recreational drugs.

“His driving that day fell well below the standard expected of any driver and led to devastating consequences. Alice and Daniel lost their much-loved mother and Joe lost an auntie who had just taken on parental responsibility for him following his own mother’s death.

“This is one of the most heart-breaking cases I have dealt with and I would like to pay tribute to them for the strength they have shown throughout this tragic time.”

Many readers will remember Tereasa for her volunteer work with Ringwood Football Club as their welfare officer.

Winter soiree

The nights are getting longer, Christmas is on its way, and among the local winter festivities is Ringwood Musical and Dramatic Society’s annual show, The Soirée!

Held this year between 22 November and 3 December at The Hub in Verwood, The Soiree is a fun and light-hearted end to the RMDS calendar, full of song, dance and comic sketches.

The proceeds of the Soirée are always donated to local good causes.

The Soirée is not for the faint-hearted and is not really suitable for children: many of the songs and gags are risqué or saucy – though the team aims not to be too offensive.

Audiences sit around tables, cabaret style, and are encouraged to bring their own picnic supper, and a bar at the venue helps keep things convivial while the audience soaks up the non-stop laughs.

Musical & Dramatic Tickets are £12.95. Visit Ringwood k for more details.

Society website, www.rmds.org.u

Tragic loss of much-loved mother: Tereasa Cutler with her daughter Alice and son Daniel

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

| 23

RINGWOOD NEWS

Generosity APPRECIATED

Ringwood and Fordingbridge Club for the Blind raised £182.34 in September’s street collection in Bransgore. The club wishes to thank everyone for their generosity.

Remember your loved ones on the Memory Tree Place a star on Eden Funeral Director’s memory tree this Christmas to remember a loved one.

Eden is joining in the Ringwood Christmas Lights Switch On on Saturday 3 December with their memory tree.

Adults and children can decorate and design memory stars, or simply write some words of comfort, or a loved one’s name.

The stars will be hung on the tree for the Christmas and Advent period and the tree will be placed in the Lady Chapel in St Peter and St Paul’s Church, where the memory or wishes for your loved ones will remain after the celebrations on the day.

If you are unable to come along on 3 December, there will be stars available at Eden’s office on Castleman Way. You are welcome to call in to add your message, alternatively telephone it through to a member of staff who will ensure your memories are included.

HAVE YOUR SAY ON

New Forest National Park Local Plan Proposed planning policies which will ultimately shape the future of the New Forest National Park are up for discussion following the publication of the draft Local Plan An initial stage of public consultation was undertaken in autumn 2015 and responses from a wide range of interest groups, parish councils and residents of the National Park have helped shape the draft Local Plan.

Now the public is being asked to comment again.

New Forest National Park Authority chairman Oliver Crosthwaite-Eyre said: “Our planning policies are a key way through which we protect the National Park’s special qualities, support the local economy and conserve the distinctive New Forest character of our communities.

“This draft Local Plan sets out our proposed policies that will ultimately be used to guide planning

decisions within the National Park, so it is vital we hear the views of as many people as possible.”

The draft Local Plan includes proposed planning policies to conserve the built and natural environment of the New Forest and meet the needs of the 35,000 people living within the park. A number of site allocations for housing and other uses are now included within the draft plan, which can be viewed at www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/ localplan.

Following an independent examination by a Government planning inspector, the final version of the Local Plan is expected to be in use by 2018.

Comments should be made by 28 November 2016.

- ADVERTISING FEATURE -

Solicitors move is well-grounded Dixon and Templeton have been in Ringwood for many years and having taken over Truman Moore, the time had not only come to expand but also to find ground floor premises.

I

n the new offices at 28 High Street, Deanne Edwards, Stephen Wyatt, Mandy Carpenter and the team are now able to see clients in the ground floor interview room if required.

In addition to the usual services such as conveyancing of homes and businesses, granting of commercial leases, wills, probate and powers of attorney, Dixon and Templeton have also expanded their litigation department.

“We offer a fine, friendly and efficient service and come highly recommended,” said partner Deanne Edwards, adding, “All the partners and staff are also keen to support the wider community and those who are not quite so fortunate as others. You can see which charitable project we are currently supporting by looking at

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VIEWPOINT November 2016

the window of the Ringwood office.

Check it out frequently because there is always something going on and our charities change on a regular basis.

“We have recently successfully hosted a Macmillan Coffee Morning and raised in excess of £150 for that worthy cause.

“We are also supporting the ongoing Shoe Box Appeal for needy children. This gives people the opportunity to either drop a shoe box into the office containing items such as a deflated football (with pump), cuddly toy, doll or hygiene items or simply to drop one or two items off and we’ll sort out the boxes.

“Whichever way you choose to do it, you will be helping needy children across the world.

“Keep your eyes on our Ringwood office to find out what we will be doing next!”

We are also supporting the ongoing Shoe Box Appeal for needy children

RINGWOOD NEWS

Can a Community Development Worker help your Wristband to organisation or keep residents safe group?

The New Forest’s community alarm service ‘Appletree Careline’ has an innovative approach to keeping people safe away from home - a new wristband that quickly gets help to people.

The silicone band has a unique ID number on it and an emergency telephone number for Appletree Careline, who are on the end of the phone 24/7. Should someone need help, Careline staff can quickly alert relatives or contacts who are registered as part of the wristband service set-up.

Cllr Jill Cleary, New Forest District Council portfolio holder, said: “The wristband is comfortable and discreet and is ideal for anyone who wants to feel safer and more confident out of the home.

“It doesn’t replace the need to call 999 where urgent medical or police assistance is required of course, but the wristband service is there for those non-emergency situations that may arise, such as someone becoming lost or confused or feeling a little unwell and needing assistance to get home.

“We have introduced this service because our existing community alarm customers have asked us how they can benefit from the same level of reassurance beyond their home and garden. www.newforest.gov.uk/appletreecareline

Community First New Forest has an established Community Development Service that helps local voluntary and community groups to manage their services and to grow.

It helps groups large or small, established or new, to strengthen and develop, using its expertise, skills and excellent knowledge of the local community.

Groups can be:• More efficient and effective • More sustainable • Meet legal obligations • Have greater funding security • Be able to set up a new group/activity that meets a local need Free facts sheets and toolkits for voluntary and community groups are available. These are simply written and cover the essentials of running a group and its activities.

There is also a varied training programme and bespoke training is available to groups who require it.

If you are looking for help running your club, group or charity, contact the Community Development Team on 01425 482773 or visit www.cfnf.org.uk

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

| 25

Celebrate s a m t s i r BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

Ch

in R ingwood

Family atmosphere Ringwood’s big Christmas lights switch on celebrations are back this year creating a wonderful family atmosphere with guaranteed snow to get everyone in the mood for the festivities.

For the third year in a row, the popular Christmas extravaganza will see the town buzzing with excitement as everyone from Santa and his elves to penguins and toy soldiers herald in Christmas.

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VIEWPOINT November 2016

SATURDAY 3 DECEMB ER

Tune into Christmas with Ringwood and Burley Band The band will be playing outside Waitrose in Ringwood during the extravaganza and on Wednesday 7 December and Saturday 10 December from 10am to 12 noon and 1pm to 3pm.

On Saturday 17 December there will be a Christmas concert at Greyfriars at 7.30pm.

They band will join Father Christmas for carols at 6pm on Christmas Eve, Saturday 24 December in Ringwood Market Place.

FROM 10AM

LANTERN PARADE

The extravaganza on Saturday 3 December starts at 10am with the highlight being the children’s lantern parade at 5.30pm with the lights switched on at 6pm in the market place. There are always gasps of delight from the crowds who gather there when the lights go on.

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

New lights

Christmas fair with plenty of choice

The town council has invested heavily in new lights and decorations over the last three years. There will be festoon lighting down Southampton Road and into Christchurch Road along with thousands of lights on the two Christmas trees outside the Gateway and in the Market Place.

There will be a bustling Christmas fair in the Market Place and along the High Street to Fridays Cross with colourful stalls and Christmas huts providing plenty of choice for all shoppers

Entertainment

ed Entertainment will be provid throughout the town all day.

Continued on page 28

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

| 27

Celebrate Christmas

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY Continued from page 27

in R ingwood

Plenty to do

Children will have plenty to do.

As well as the chance to see Santa in his grotto in the Market Place from 10am-5pm, children can enjoy going on the fair rides and watching the street entertainers and stilt walk ers.

There will also be chance for them to make lanterns at workshops held in the Meeting House.

Children needn’t worry if they haven’t had chance to make a lantern. Extra lanterns will be available in The Furlong at the start of the parade. And this year, children are invited to dress up.

Organisers are hoping the youngsters will come as penguins or toy soldiers to form a guard of honour for Santa as he leads the parade down Meeting House Lane to the Market Place.

Continued on page 30

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VIEWPOINT November 2016

Celebrate Christmas

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY Continued from page 28

in R ingwood

Roger and the naughty elves!

Roger the Reindeer will be out and about making sure everyone has fun and seeing the children who he has been meeting recently in local schools.

The naughty elves, courtesy of Ringwood School will also be up to mischief and keeping everyone entertained.

Rock on!

There will be music and singing on the main stage in the Market Place with the Rock Choir keeping the crowds entertained as the lantern parade arrives.

Message from the committee

The Christmas extravaganza has been organised by the newly formed Ringwood Events Committee.

Chairman Steve Nash has invited everyone to join in the fun. He said: “This will be the third event for the committee this year, following on from Armed Forces Day and the bonfire celebrations. We’re hoping families will come along to welcome in Christmas and join in what will be an amazing community event.”

The committee is also hoping to get involved in Rotary’s Christmas Eve event and Fanfare for Spring next year.

“We’re always looking for more volunteers so we’d like to hear from anyone who can help,” Steve added.

Christmas gift

Tree of remembrance

There will be an opportunity for people to remember loved ones they have lost with the opportunity to buy a Christmas decoration which they can personalise with a message and then hang on the Christmas tree outside the Gateway.

Ringwood Town Council has awarded the Rotary Club a grant for £150, to cover expenses for the Christmas Eve festivities in the Market Place. Approximately 3,000 people attended the long-standing event last year, when presents are collected to be given to needy children in children’s homes and special schools.

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VIEWPOINT November 2016

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY - advertising feature -

Don’t overlook your roof this winter

Winter preparations often overlook the roof, despite the fact that it bears the brunt of the weather. Wet moss can double the weight on your roof, and worse still, the freeze/thaw effect causes moss to expand and thereby fracture or even shatter underlying tiles. In addition, moss at cement/tile joins erodes cement, causing the render to fall out and allowing moisture in. Removing the moss halts this process entirely, reducing your maintenance costs long term. For more information contact Hygiea Soft Wash Roof Clean on 0800 6891217.

CHRISTMAS IN THE FURLONG Late Night Shopping

Giant Snow Globe

Farm Experience

Take the hassle out of your gift and food shopping this Christmas with the Furlong late night shopping on Thursday 1 December. Many stores will stay open until 8pm and there will be festive refreshments, music and an elf ‘wrapping station’.

Here’s a tip: Waitrose is also a John Lewis Click & Collect point.

Back by popular demand is the Furlong’s Giant Snow Globe photo experience on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 December. This is great fun for all the family and you’ll receive a free digital photo at the end; perfect for making personalised Christmas cards and gifts. Plus Father Christmas will be visiting on Sunday for all those #SantaSelfies.

The Longdown Christmas Farm event on Tuesday 20 December from 11am-3pm is a must for all the family, with Farmer Ian’s festive animals paying a visit.

Shoppers can help pet a miniature donkey, hold a newborn chick or see a live turkey up close.

To find out more visit thefurlong.co.uk

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

| 31

By Liz Turner

From the road, the closed Ringwood Social Club is typical of many old buildings in need of TLC. Some deteriorate to the stage where they have to be pulled down, but the social club, in West Street, is about to be transformed into a modern welcoming venue – without losing its character.

The club has been closed since 2011 and what in the past had been a thriving social centre with up to 2,000 members is empty and seemingly abandoned - but not quite.

There are still 125 members left who are determined that the club should have a future and thrive again.

Helen Homewood, the club’s secretary explained: “The club was forced to close because no money had been put aside for the repairs and refurbishment that needed doing. The news of its closure came out of the blue and it had originally been planned to auction the property.”

However, Ringwood Social Club has one very special feature, which means it will soon have a new exciting future.

The club is owned by the members, who are determined to see it rise again.

The deeds for the building go back to 1699 and it is in one of the town’s original medieval streets.

It used to be two buildings – number 17 was an auctioneer’s, which sold wines, spirits and beer while number 19 at one stage was the Antelope Inn run by Carters Breweries, which was based just along the road by the millstream.

Car park and the extension that will be demolished

The social club’s front entrance that will be used again

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VIEWPOINT November 2016

In 1919 a solicitor and an ex-army major bought number 19 and turned it into the Comrades Club and later acquired 17 and extended the premises.

The members then paid back the purchase money and from then on have owned the club. At one stage it was called the British Legion Club.

“IT WAS QUITE A LABOUR OF LOVE TO UNRAVEL THE HISTORY” Treasurer Tina Saddington said: “When we started investigating the history of the club at the Hampshire records office it was very confusing because the two buildings had been listed together as a dwelling. It was quite a labour of love to unravel the history. The 1699 deeds are in old English but it has been fascinating.” The club’s front door used to be on High Street but in the 1970s the building was extended at the back and a new entrance created around the side.

Plans now are to knock down the extension and the entrance, and reinvent the club using its original footprint.

The extension downstairs made room for a large lounge and bar area and pool room while upstairs became a function suite with bar.

Helen added: “People held wedding receptions and parties in the room upstairs and it used to be very busy.

Ringwood darts league met there, as did the Buffaloes and the Normandy Veterans. It was such a shame that the club ran out of money to update the rooms.”

After years of discussion and planning, the committee has finally got planning permission for a scheme which it is confident will make the club once again a popular venue.

The modern extension is to be demolished and the club concentrated in the original buildings, which are listed.

Upstairs function room

Ready for repair

TO RISE LIKE A PHOENIX

Tina said: “We never knew how many rooms there were upstairs as most events were in the function room, but there is so much space that the club will be able to operate without the extension.

“We’ll also be using the original door for number 19 which will be far more welcoming than the new entrance was.”

An orangery and a beer garden will be built at the back on the ground floor along with two commercial units, which will provide income for the maintenance of the buildings.

The club also has a large car park at the back, which runs down to the millstream. This is now unusable and is being sold to pay for the rest of the work. Planning permission has been given for five houses which will be built there.

The scheme has been backed by Ringwood Town Council, which has highlighted the importance of the social club as an amenity within the community. Ringwood Society has also welcomed the renovation.

It is hoped work will start before Christmas so for now, it’s a case of “watch that space.”

Tina (right) and Helen survey the damaged walls

Ringwood Social Club -

in the female viewpoint

Christmas gift ideas: SIX WAYS TO PAMPER YOUR LOVED ONE With Christmas coming, a pampering treat can be the perfect gift, so why not pamper the person you love and make them feel extra special Thoughtful massage

Ladies adore high heels, especially during the party season, but they take their toll and the result of dancing the night away could be sore feet.

A relaxing foot massage will help soothe those aches and perk up tired tootsies. There are a variety of massages for other parts of the body too: hot stone, Swedish, reflexology, shiatsu, aromatherapy, deep tissue to name a few. All will be appreciated and if given as a gift voucher they can be booked when desired.

Accessorise

A new bag, earrings, scarf, hat or gloves. Accesories can splash a bit of colour into Christmas and if you can keep them a secret that’s even better.

It’s a bonus if you manage to colour co-ordinate to match a favourite outfit, but bright and bold is often beautiful.

Keepsake

There’s nothing like dressing up and wearing a new piece of jewellery. An eternity ring, charm bracelet or even some chunky, fashionable costume jewellery will help make your loved one’s Christmas sparkle and it can last a lifetime too.

Keeping fit

You know what it’s like at Christmas - the pounds pile on. There are all sorts of gadgets and gizmos in the marketplace that help the fitness fiend keep a fix on their daily routine (distance walked/calories burned).

Whether wristbands or clip-ons, they are small and unobtrusive. A great gift for Christmas, they will help with any slimming and exercise routine in the new year.

New outfit

Every lady loves a new outfit. It can make them feel a million dollars, so what better time to buy one than at Christmas. Shop together to prove you’re not taking the easy way out.

Help choose something stunning, be patient, pay the bill, then wrap it up for Christmas day – not the bill, the outfit!

Restful break

This is not as expensive as you think. It’s not a holiday abroad, but a holiday from the kitchen. If your missus usually cooks the turkey, how about a bit of role reversal? Take over and make the entire Christmas meal.

Set the mood with a candlelit table, chill the wine and give her a real rest from kitchen duties.

The advertisers are here to help, so use a few of these ideas to help take the stress out of Christmas.

What you should do most of all this festive season is have fun. Enjoy!

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

| 33

in and around the area

what’s on

this month 19 November 10am – 12 noon

Wimborne in Bloom pre-Christmas coffee morning with raffle and bring and buy, 34 Park Lane, Wimborne. 01202 888703

19 November 10am - 1pm

Canford Cliffs Christmas craft fair, in aid of Motor Neurone Disease Association, Canford Cliffs Village Hall, Ravine Road, BH13 7HT. 07811 871347

19 November 10.30am

Bournemouth & District Multiple Sclerosis Society Christmas Fayre, Church Lane, West Parley. 01202 570300

19 November 1-11pm

Thrive-art auction and raffle at Buffalo Bar, Withermoor Road, Winton, Bournemouth BH9 2JQ. Live music, bake sale, face painting, child friendly.

Supporting Julia’s House. 01202 529861

19 November 1pm

West Moors Horticultural Society, buffet lunch followed by presentation of cups and trophies West Moors Memorial Hall.

01202 871536

19 November 7.30pm

Dorset County Orchestra concert, Dorford Centre, Dorchester. Programme includes Mozart’s violin concerto, Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet overture and Walton”s Henry V Suite. dorsetcountyorchestra.org

21 November 2.30pm

‘West Moors: a history in images’, St Martin’s Discovery Group, St Martin’s URC, West Moors.

22 November 7.30-9.15pm

Bournemouth and Beyond Discovery Group, ‘Round London by Canal’ at Richmond Hill St Andrews United Reformed Church Hall, St Stephen’s Road, Bournemouth. www. bournemouthandbeyond.co.uk

23 November 2.30pm

‘Use of lidar to map the New Forest archaeology’, joint DWT/National Trust meeting, Methodist Church Hall, Lymington Road, Highcliffe. 01305 264620

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VIEWPOINT November 2016

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

25 November

Wimborne Movie Makers awards evening, Allendale Centre, Wimborne.

01202 387515

25 November 7pm

Cheese and wine evening at Breamore House, Fordingbridge, in aid of the Sarah Kinsley Fund. For more details, visit www.sarahkinsleyfund.org.uk/diary. html

26 Nov-22 December

A Cracker of a Christmas at the Hayloft Gallery, 14 Wick Lane, Christchurch 10-4 daily. CADArts Annual Christmas exhibition showcasing locally made arts and crafts – affordable gifts for Christmas. 01202 848004

26 November 10am-7pm

Christmas in Christchurch, Christmas market, craft fair, entertainment, Santa’s grotto. Procession at 4.30pm and lights switch-on 6pm. www.christchurch. christmas

26 November

Ferndown Christmas lights switch-on, Penny’s Walk. Santa’s grotto, Christmas market, raffle, mince pies and mulled wine.

26 November 2.30pm

The Fayrewood Singers present their seasonal concert, ‘Sing Noel’, Verwood Methodist Church. Free with a retiring collection. 01202 884248.

27 November 11am

Bournemouth & District Multiple Sclerosis Society Craft Fayre, Church Lane, West Parley. 01202 570300

27 November 10am-3pm

RNLI Reindeer Run at Moors Valley Country Park, 5k or 10k fun runs, or 1k Santa Saunter to help raise money to save lives at sea. Meet RNLI mascots Rookie the Reindeer and Stormy Stan.

MoorsValleyReindeer@rnli.org.uk.

29 November 7.30-9.15pm

Bournemouth and Beyond Discovery Group, ‘Around the World in Music and pictures’, Richmond Hill St Andrews United Reformed Church Hall, St Stephen’s Road, Bournemouth. www. bournemouthandbeyond.co.uk

30 November 7.30pm

New Forest Jazz Workshop Godshill Village Hall opposite the Fighting Cocks. All levels of musicianship are welcome. For details call Derek Ayling on 01425 650770 or contact by email on Hippotrain@btinternet.com

30 November 7.30pm

Verwood Keyboard Society presents Richard Monks playing a Yamaha D Deck at Verwood Hub. 01202 822936

1 December 12.30pm

Eat and meet lunch with quiz for anyone who would enjoy some lunchtime company. Royal British Legion Ferndown Club, Church Road BH22 9ET. £3, non-members £6, in association with Douch & Son. 01202 877706 or email admin@rblferndown.org

1 December 7.30pm

Verwood Horticultural Society meeting at Memorial Hall. ‘Pruning of Roses, Apples, Pears and other fruit’, Thomas Stone. 01202 814376

3 December

Help plant a community woodland to celebrate life and love. Ashurst Recreation Ground in the New Forest.

For more information, visit www. newforestnpa.gov.uk/familytrees

3 December 10am-7pm

Ringwood Christmas lights switch-on and lantern parade with Santa’s Grotto, Market Place and High Street. 07896 204720

3 December 7.30pm

Wimborne Choral Society performs Handel’s Messiah in the Minster by candlelight, tickets from £12 (reserved) £9 (unreserved) from Square Records, on the door or call 01202 603569

3 December 11am onwards

Broadstone Christmas market and parade. Parade starts 1.25pm from Story Lane.

3 December

Light fiesta and Christmas festivities, Westbourne. Street party 4-6pm including music, light performers and dancers. Santa’s grotto in the Arcade.

7 December 12.15pm

Ferndown Probus Club meets at Dudsbury Golf Club, Ferndown for lunch followed by talk by guest speaker.

01202 875757

7 December 7.30pm

Verwood Keyboard Society presents Dirkjan Ranzijn playing a Bohm at Verwood Hub. 01202 822936

7 December

Fireside Theatre East Dorset branch meets for reading of ‘How the Other Half Loves’ by Alan Ayckbourn. Hosts Jenny and Mike Brown. 01202 825178

8 December 7.30pm

Wimborne Horticultural Society, ‘The Tale of Two Gardens in Singapore by Rosemary Legrand’. Christmas meeting - bring food for sharing. Community and Resource Centre, 41- 44 King Street.

Wimborne, 01202 887006

9 December 6pm

Carols on the Petwyn at West Moors.

Stalls, Father Christmas and candlelit procession to get you in the festive spirit.

10-11 December 10.30am - 4pm 8th Christmas Tree Festival at St Mary’s Church, Sturminster Marshall.

Trees decorated by local societies and families, and dedicated to charities to which donations are invited. Community carol singing Sunday afternoon. Free entry, refreshments.

10 December

Wimborne Save the Children parade and Great Pudding Stir.

10 December 7.30pm

Family Christmas Concert with the Stour Valley Band and the Bovington Military Wives Choir, Coade Hall, Bryanston School in support of SSAFA. 07770 744842

in and around the area

COM P ETITION

Glam rock RETURNS TO FERNDOWN There’s a chance for revelers to go back to the days of glitter, glam and platform boots just in time for Christmas.

The Original Jukebox Heroes are bringing their live action, select-a-disc glam rock spectacular to the Barrington Theatre in Ferndown on 17 December.

Formed in 2005 with the aim of creating a group of original glam rock superstars, they now deliver a show of 70s’ classics with the gusto and dedication that was present when the songs were originally released.

The show is packed with an energetic cavalcade of toe-tapping glam rock classics. Jeff Brown, Sweet’s singer and bass guitarist is joined on stage by Phil Hendriks, guitarist from the Bay City Rollers, Steve Whalley who replaced Noddy Holder in Slade, Pete Phipps, the drummer from The Glitter Band, Philip Wright of Paper

Lace who plays drums and sings lead vocals and on keyboards is Dave Major who has played with T-Rex since the band was re-formed.

The Original Jukebox Heroes set is comprised of songs from each respective band member’s careers and is performed with complete dedication and a desire to present the songs as authentically as possible.

If you would like to relive the glam rocks days, the Barrington Theatre and MAGS4DORSET have a pair of tickets to give away for the show, which starts at 7.30pm.

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN ANSWER THIS QUESTION:

Who was the original lead singer with T-Rex? Enter online at www.mags4dorset.co.uk or send your entry to: Original Jukebox Heroes, MAGS4DORSET, 1st Floor King George V Pavilion, Peter Grant Way, Ferndown, Dorset, BH22 9EN. Closing date is 7 December. The first correct entry drawn will be the winner. Employees at the Barrington Theatre and Pulford Publicity Ltd are not permitted to enter. There is no cash alternative. The editor’s decision is final.

Next ‘Bikerdown!’ course coming up Following the success of Dorset’s first ‘Bikerdown!’ safety initiative at the Safewise Centre in Bournemouth, more courses are in the pipeline.

Hosted in partnership with the Docbike Project, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, Dorset Police and sponsored by Bournemouth Bikes, the first event was fully booked and saw Dr Ian Mew and PC Chris Smith from Dorset Police deliver a three-hour seminar, free of charge.

They educated riders on what to do the moment a motorcycle incident occurs including safely securing the scene, making sure an ambulance is called, treating a casualty and the controversial subject of how to safely remove a motorcycle helmet.

The event concluded with a talk about the ‘science of being seen’ where PC Smith explored the effectiveness of Hi-Viz and how best to use it.

Students said that they would recommend the event and would now have the confidence and knowledge to step forward and potentially make that lifesaving difference following an incident.

Those who attended received a free first aid kit, designed to be stored on a motorcycle, thanks to ‘Bikerdown!’ sponsors Bournemouth Bikes.

Dr Ian Mew said: “I’m really pleased our first event went really well, especially after all the hard work and planning from everyone involved. We have delivered potentially life-saving lessons to these students, giving them the confidence to step forward and make a real difference if the situation arises.”

PC Chris Smith added: “In the event of a motorcycle accident, the first person on scene is often a fellow biker.

Our Bikerdown! seminars build upon the success of our Bikesafe courses, developed to reduce the casualty rates across Dorset’s roads.”

Another course is being held on Tuesday 13 December.

For more details go to www.docbike.org

Three Degrees

WINNER The competition for tickets to see The Three Degrees at the Barrington Theatre, was won by Mrs L Livesey of Ferndown. The answer was Prince Charles.

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

| 35

in and around the area

Village

e e r t s a m t s Ch r i

festival

St Mary’s Church, Sturminster Marshall will be holding its 8th Christmas Tree Festival on 10 and 11 December

T

his popular event sees the church filled with beautifully decorated trees. The trees are provided and decorated by groups and individuals from the village and each one is dedicated to a charity.

Visitors are invited to make donations to their favourite charity.

Since 2009, over 80 charities have been supported by this event from donations reaching over £5,000.

Visitors are also invited to help dress a Christmas tree and choose their favourite tree.

Children can also make a Christmas decoration or card.

During the Festival, St Mary’s holds its annual toy service with new gifts being given to the Women’s Refuge. A carol singing session is held on Sunday afternoon.

Entry to the festival from 10.30am-4pm both days, is free and refreshments are provided.

Fees will fund fort’s future Parking charges are to be introduced at Badbury Rings.

For over 30 years the National Trust has cared for Badbury Rings and welcomed drivers to the Iron Age hill fort without them having to pay.

It has now been decided to charge a parking fee of £1 for two hours or £3 for the day for nonmembers. All the money given will go directly to support local conservation work.

Nigel Chalk, National Trust outdoor manager at Kingston Lacy, said: “We’re committed to conserving and caring for Badbury Rings forever and for everyone. But if we do not act now, Badbury Rings could become

36 |

VIEWPOINT November 2016

a victim of its own success. More and more people are choosing to visit which is terrific, but we still need to ensure that we have the funds available to protect this historic and beautiful Iron Age hill fort and are able to carry out the necessary conservation work required.

“If we want everyone to enjoy this special place then we need to address the inevitable wear and tear and make Badbury Rings fit for the future and for future generations.”

The charges will come into force later this year.

in and around the area

CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR

R

eturning for its fifth fabulous year, The Glad Rag Production Company is delighted to bring the Christmas Spectacular 2016 to Christchurch’s Regent Centre stage.

Bursting with festive delights this highly acclaimed company will create a magical Christmas treat for the whole family to enjoy. Once again the company brings together an evening of stunning dance routines, sparkling vocals and laughter to delight audiences of all ages. The lavish costumes designed and created

by Sue Simmerling compliment the polished production numbers choreographed by Carly Simmerling,

both trademarks of the young company. The spectacular returns to the North Pole where Santa is hosting an Elf Convention. With visiting elves from Germany, America and Spain, it takes the audience around the world in 90 minutes and along the way the sparkling singers and stunning dancers perrform West End musical showstoppers, all the Christmas classics and the hilarious ‘If I were not on Santa’s team’. Benji and Bruce the polar bears will be on hand to ensure everything runs smoothly. Running right up to the Christmas Eve this Christmas cracker of a family show is guaranteed to fill you with the spirit of Christmas.

Poole lantern

parade

Poole’s traditional lantern parade will be illuminating the streets of Poole town centre on Thursday 8 December.

Children from Poole will parade down the High Street with lanterns and illuminated works of art.

The procession leaves Falkland Square at 6pm and travels down the High Street with stilt walkers to the Guildhall where they will join Poole Old Town Conservation Group for carols and mince pies.

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

| 37

in and around the area

CURL UP WITH A BOOK FOR CHRISTMAS – editor’s choice Take your pick from David Hough’s novels

D New series of novellas by Dorset author Della Galton writing as Della Parker When Della was asked why she wrote The Reading Group, she said, “I wanted to write about female friendship. My girlfriends are the most valuable relationships in my life. I think this is the case for a lot of women, so the Reading Group characters are based on women I have known, both past and present. Those loyal, supportive, enduring friendships that enrich my life so very much. The Reading Group is a tribute to them all.”

The Reading Group is a brand new series of novellas subtitled, January, February and March.

Meet the Reading Group: six women in the seaside village of Little Sanderton come together every month to share their love of reading. No topic is offlimits: books, family, love and loss . . . and don’t forget the glass of red!

Three Legs, Two Bikes, One Piano

by Matt Black, Jon Cox and Alan Dorey Published by Recorded Life £12 paperback, £20 hardback Review by Janine Pulford The only man with one leg to complete a cycle ride from John O’Groats to Lands End is Jon Cox. The only man to cycle with a piano in tow (not literally) and gig almost every night on the gruelling 1,000 mile journey is Matt Black. Both are recovering alcoholics and their intrepid adventure makes them the only cyclists with three legs, two bikes and one piano to have completed the distance.

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VIEWPOINT November 2016

December (short story) Grace knows that the holiday season is going to be different this year.

No turkey, no tinsel, no gorgeously wrapped gifts under the tree . . . how on earth is she going to break it to her little boys that Christmas is effectively cancelled? And can she bear to tell anyone her embarrassing secret?

Enter the Reading Group: Grace’s life might have turned upside down but there’s no problem they can’t solve.

‘Brims with laughs, love, family and friendship. You will love this heart-warming read!’ Trisha Ashley.

Grace’s story, which introduces the Reading Group is FREE to download from Amazon. The Reading Group is published by Quercus Books.

Publication date, 1 December 2016.

This feat is even more commendable when you realise they undertook the challenge for charity. Not only that, three generations of the same family were involved, which inevitably led to a few spats. Matt even referred to the sometimes dysfunctional support team, which included his musician son Chris Payn, dad Larry Payne, Australian singer songwriter Katie Jayne and Si Genaro (‘The Voice’/ Chicken Train fame) as “the ‘Big Brother Household’ on wheels.”

Setting off on 4 May 2016, Matt and Jon aimed high - wanting to raise £10,000 for Wings for Warriors, a charity that provides support to wounded, injured and sick servicemen and women.

Three weeks after setting off, Matt and Jon completed the distance. How they stuck to their gruelling schedule when inexperience got in the way is a miracle. Jon cycled eight miles with his brakes on, he fulfilled almost half the journey with the wrong tyres, so had to work doubly hard and with only one leg to achieve the distance and Matt almost wrote off his rear end by not having the right saddle.

Lesser mortals may have given up, but not these two. At the end of the journey, Jon, who lost his leg when he was a little boy said,

etermined that retirement would not see him slip into a ‘donothing’ sort of life, David Hough began his writing hobby when he retired from Air Traffic Control 13 years ago. Now a well-established Ferndown author, he has a staggering 30 published novels to his name.

Prestwick, his best-selling novel, is a story of two aircraft colliding over the North Atlantic. Published by Cloudberry Books, the story was developed from David’s background knowledge of aviation. The sequel, Heathrow, is a story about a terrorist attack on London Airport.

Earlier this year, the New York publisher, Whiskey Creek Press, published the World War Two story, Bomber Girl, along with David’s latest crime novel, Death in Scotland.

Finding story plots doesn’t seem to bother David. “My age is an advantage,” he explains. “We older writers have a lifetime of experience from which we can draw ideas for new plots. I have never been at a loss in dreaming up a new story.”

Now past the milestone age of 70, will he carry on writing?

“Of course,” he says. “When a writer dies, he will, like a painter, leave behind part of himself in his work. I’m determined to leave behind as much of myself as possible.”

To find out more about David Hough’s books visit: www.thenovelsofdavidhough.com

“I don’t think that riding with one leg is so much of a big deal,” yet he admits there were dangers involved.

Matt said “this journey is like holding up a mirror to the journey of life. All the things that you experience across the years are happening here, but in a micro-climate...” He also said he and Jon developed a “kind of cycling-telepathy” which included a ‘docking procedure’ to avoid Jon toppling onto the highway when he stopped.

Follow their incredible journey in their well-written daily log, plus a blog by Katie Jayne. Si Genaro joined with Matt and Chris to make a terrific trio who played 19 fundraising gigs along the route. And learn how the Bridgwater Chapter Motorcycle Club played their part in supporting the challenge.

Brought together by Alan Dorey, Three Legs, Two Bikes, One Piano is available in paperback at WH Smiths (Poole, Winton and Bournemouth), Waterstones (Poole, Bournemouth and Castlepoint) and Gullivers Bookshop (Wimborne) also from www.recordedlife.co.uk.

Matt and Jon have almost hit their target of £10,000, but further donations are welcome through gofundme.com Wings for Warrior 3 Legged Tour.

Ferndown Before the Bulldozers and Builders Moved In

by Brian Davis Review by Janine Pulford Every resident in Ferndown should read this book. It gives a fascinating history of the town from 1944 onwards and though it is one man’s view of the area he grew up in, he has interviewed many people to give a wonderfully rounded picture.

You will discover that Ferndown was identified as a safe place for evacuees - yet it was bombed, that it had a zoo with the infamous Ajax the lion whose roars reached the national press, and that Stewarts Nursery was established in Ferndown in 1859 and set the trend for the modern garden centre. There is also an explanation about the underground bunker where an elite group of men would have tried to fend off an invasion during the war.

Almost every page is illustrated with black-and-white photographs of bygone times and a picture of the Balmoral cake shop on the day after the bomb fell shows what devastation it caused.

I found this book fascinating and well-written - it’s an A4 soft-back priced at £13.99 + £2pp from Brian Davis, 31 Whinhams Way, Billericay, Essex CM12 OHD. Tel 01277 295652.

motoring

CCTV APPEAL IDENTIFIES CAR THIEF Mathew Harrison, 50, of Park Way in West Moors, pleaded guilty at Bournemouth Magistrates’ Court on 14 October to theft of a vehicle, driving a vehicle while uninsured and driving without a licence. He was sentenced to a community order and is obliged to comply with a curfew that he must live and sleep at his home address between the hours of 8pm and 8am for six weeks. He was ordered to pay £85 court costs and £215

in compensation. He has also been disqualified from driving for 12 months. The court heard that a white Kia Rio was stolen from outside a polling station along Wimborne Road West in Ferndown while the owner was voting in the EU referendum on 23 June. A week later, Harrison took the vehicle to a garage on Leigh Road in Wimborne to fill the car with fuel. He was captured on CCTV and this was issued as

part of a public appeal. A number of people named Harrison as the offender. He was interviewed on 21 August and admitted he was the man in the CCTV image. Police Constable Ben King, of Ferndown police, said: “Harrison was identified by members of the public contacting Dorset Police following a proactive CCTV appeal and I would like to thank them for getting in touch and helping to bring him to justice.”

Women drivers angrier than men

New research from Hyundai Motor UK has discovered women drivers are, on average, 12% angrier than men behind the wheel.

Researchers found driving sparked ancient ‘defence’ instincts from when humans were hunter-gatherers. These evolutionary traits kicked in during the test when women were either undertaken, shouted or beeped at, had to deal with a back-seat driver (women 14% angrier) or were faced with a road user who failed to indicate (women 13% angrier). In all test scenarios, women were more likely to respond with anger than male drivers. The study of 1,000 UK drivers was conducted by behavioural psychologist Patrick Fagan from Goldsmiths University London.

Life Drive pilot launched Thanks to the award-winning Life Drive programme, young drivers in Dorset can access one of the UK’s best driver training courses Under 25s make up 12 per cent of road users in Dorset, but they are involved in over 25% of all accidents.

Life Drive was designed to help reduce this disproportionate statistic.

So far over 100 young drivers have been on the free course, which is available for 17-25 year olds wanting to build their confidence on the road and is aimed at those who have passed their test in the last four years. The course combines 90 minutes of practical driving with a

short interactive session.

Course results show important decreases in behaviours such as using a phone, driving too fast for the conditions and driving in a certain way as a result of peer pressure.

Before the course, 67% claimed to be confident drivers and after the course 85% were confident. The next Life Drive evenings are on 14 November and 8 December at SafeWise in Bournemouth. To register visit www. bournemouth.gov.uk/lifedrive

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

| 39

specialist services AERIAL & SATELLITE INSTALLERS

ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES

ARTICLES WANTED

AIRPORT TRANSFERS

DECORATING

CHIMNEY SWEEP

DISABILITY PRODUCTS

FENCING

FITTED FURNITURE

FENCING

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

| 41

specialist services FIREWOOD

GRAPHIC DESIGN

GARDENING SERVICES

MAINTENANCE

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

GARDENING SERVICES

LOCKSMITH

PLUMBING

SHUTTERS

42 |

VIEWPOINT November 2016

TREE SURGERY

specialist services TREE SURGERY

TREE SURGERY

WINDOW REPAIRS

WEB DESIGN

WINDOW REPAIRS

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

800 good clean flowerpots, all 3½ inch. £50. Ringwood. 01425 470646 Refectory table, with 6 wheelback chairs including 2 carvers. £175.

Ferndown. 01202 873411 Wicker linen bin, natural colour. As new. £5. Ferndown. 01202 861588 2 tiled top tables, occasional table 19 x 19 x 16inch and wheeled trolley 26inch w x 18inch d x 24inch h. £35.

Ferndown. 01202 873411.

24inch folding table, wooden top and metal leg. £10. Ferndown.

01202 892179 Royal Doulton figures, 2 x 8inch h, £25, 2 x 5inch h, £15. Call for details.

West Moors. 01202 890097 Motorised invalid scooter, as new used only twice. £750 ono. Ashley Heath. 01425 471868

If you wish to advertise in this section, complete the form and send to mags4dorset, 1st Floor, King George V Pavilion, Peter Grant Way, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9EN. Free insertions limited to two items per person.

Trade adverts must be paid for £30 per item plus VAT, max 25 words.

Display cabinet, bookcase and radio cabinet. Good condition £50 ono. Warhammer and scenery. £50 ono. Bear Cross. 01202 574794

Stoves gas cooker, double oven, grill, 4 burners, electronic ignition.

Full working order. Buyer collects. £60. Ferndown. 01202 895590

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

Padded beige headboard, 4ft 6inch x 2ft. £10. White and brass metal headboard, 4ft 6inch x 2ft. £30. No offers. Excellent condition. Ashley Heath. 01425 471436

White metal high chair, good condition. £20. Wimborne 01202 887618

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

Yamaha Electronic Keyboard PSR740/640 with carry case.

Ex condition. £299. Poole 01202 670252.

Yamaha full-size drum kit with mats, stool and drumsticks. As new. £200 ono. Sony 32” LCD colour TV, HD ready. £50. Ferndown. Tel 01202 871159.

Roberts L300 radio, 1950s. £125 ono. Framed mirror, 27½ inch l x 17½ inch w. Good condition. £10 ono. Fordingbridge. 07867 813213

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

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

Riding boots, size 10. Excellent condition. £75. Alderholt. 01425 652035

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

Pine child’s bedroom 2-door wardrobe and cupboard. Good condition. £100. Ringwood. 07932 654980

DECLARATION: PLEASE CROSS OUT THE STATEMENT THAT DOES NOT APPLY TO YOU AND SIGN THE FORM BEFORE POSTING.

Three 6 x 6 new woven fence panels (surplus to requirements). £45. Ladder as new £30. Verwood 01202 822812

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

I confirm I am not a tradesperson | I am a tradesperson and enclose a cheque for £36 PER ITEM including VAT Signature …...................................................

Date ….............................

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

Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements

June 2015

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

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ASK THE

EXPERT

Nolan Irving

Q. Due to a change in circumstances we need to sell our house fairly quickly and we will not be looking to buy again, at least for a while anyway. Is it best for us to delay marketing our house until early in the New Year or is now still a good time?

A. Well, now is as good a time as any.

The property market has been very active all year and even though it’s November, it isn’t showing any signs of slowing down.

You have clearly made the decision that you need to sell, so I would suggest that you actually take advantage of the current market conditions rather than delaying things until next year.

Prices over the last 11 months or so have continued to increase consistently in this area and are currently higher than they have ever been. Demand for property remains very high from buyers for all types

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VIEWPOINT November 2016

of homes and we are continuing to sell homes quickly and in the same volumes as we have been all year.

If you are not planning on buying another home for a while then you will want to ensure that you achieve the best possible price as well as a quick sale. At this time of year, there are fewer homes available which gives you a really good chance of achieving this and it could be a smart move to get ahead of the January /February surge in new property listings.

The demand from buyers at the moment is high and the competition that your home will have from other similar properties is at a low.

Therefore, why not take advantage of the very good market that we have, rather than waiting for the unknown of what might happen in the first quarter of next year.

As we move into the early part of the New Year, Brexit is sure to become even more prominent in the media. Inevitably, there will be some focus on the possible effects on house prices and the economy.

If past scares of what might happen resurface, then this could well cause the property market to slow down.

It’s very difficult to play the property market, which is why I say that if the time is right then go for it.

Mortgage rates are still very low, there is a shortage of homes available and plenty of good buyers waiting for something new to come along.

And if you do, then give me a call because I would welcome the opportunity to offer my help, advice and guidance to ensure that your move is as stress free and straightforward as possible.

Nolan Irving Irving and Sons Estate Agents of Verwood Tel 01202 823333

‘Beyond Bravery’ - THE STORY OF FERNDOWN’S FALLEN IN TWO WORLD WARS

Local historian and Royal British Legion county treasurer, Ian Dale has written a book on the personal and military histories of all the servicemen of Ferndown who fell in the two World Wars and whose names appear on the War Memorials of Ferndown and Hampreston.

A

s well as giving a fascinating insight into their families, everyday life and how they came to be at war, the book raises many questions which current

More photos of the spectacular Dorset Poppy Appeal launch at the Barrington Centre, Ferndown

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VIEWPOINT November 2016

research cannot answer but may well lie with surviving members of the families in the area.

The book includes short histories of the units, vessels and campaigns

that they fought in and where they fell and are buried today.

Released in time for the Remembrance Period, the book retails at £5 with all proceeds being donated

In the foreground Gerry Nunn (centre) buys his poppy watched by Mick Arnold MBE (left), poppy girl Tilly and the mayor

to The Royal British Legion Dorset County Welfare Fund and is available from RBL Ferndown, Church Road, Ferndown BH22 9ET, branch@rblferndown. org and many local outlets.

Sophie (7) from Ferndown First School and Jack (3) from Hopscotch Pre-school

Getting to know about the Home Guard

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