Viewpoint September 2017

Established Over 35 Years Mid Sept 2017

Your Independent Local Magazine

VIEWPOINT

Volume 41, Issue 11

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

POLICE COULD

MERGE FORCES The chief constables of Dorset Police and Devon & Cornwall Police have announced plans to look at further collaboration and closer working between the two forces. One avenue they say is the possibility of a full merger uniting the two police forces into one. The police and crime commissioners of both Dorset Police and Devon & Cornwall Police are supporting the exploration of possibilities over the coming weeks when consultation with key stakeholders such as locally elected MPs and councils will begin. Neither chief constables thought it likely that a decision would be made quickly.

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INSIDE THIS ISSU

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EXCLUSIVE INTE RVIEW WITH AM IE KNIGHT REMOVING THE DINGS FROM WE DDINGS VERWOOD GIRL S LOVE FOOTBA LL BIN YOUR BUTT RUSTIC FAYRE PHOTOS

VIEWPOINT Volume 41 • Issue 11 • September 2017 How to contact useditorial MAGS4DORSET

Ben Pulford managing director design@mags4dorset.co.uk Nick Pulford company secretary accounts@mags4dorset.co.uk

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

Design 01202 233441 Louis Pulford creative 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 Richard Marrow account manager DD: 01202 941470 richard@mags4dorset.co.uk

LOGISTICS Ian Lory Alexandra O’Neill

Hello everyone!

The days are getting shorter, the dew is on the grass and there’s a morning nip in the air that makes me want to stay in bed just a few minutes longer.

Fortunately I love my job, so it’s never a case of staying in bed until the last minute. In fact I am usually awake by 7am getting ready for an early walk with a close friend.

I have lost count of how long we have been doing this, but its years rather than months, and before ‘the two of us’ it was a group of us and our dogs. Sadly the dogs died one by one and Christine and I agreed that despite the absence of our four-legged friends, we still needed the exercise and so the traditional morning walk continued.

Once out in the countryside, breathing the fresh air and taking in the changes in the seasons, we both admit we feel energised and invigorated for any challenges the day puts our way. Plus we walk quite fast, so burn off calories, which is a double whammy.

I hope our walks carry on for many years to come, even so, these cold mornings definitely make it harder to get motivated. Just five more minutes…

Enjoy the magazine. You can find out what else I do in my spare time on page 5.

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:

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

Janine Pulford Editor

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

Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No… it’s SuperVeg! A Horticultural 1st by Bethany Field at Dorset County Show

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

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BIN YOUR BUTT

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erndown has been identified as having specific issues with cigarette-related litter and is one of the areas where the largest amount of cigarette litter has been found. So why not get involved with Litter Free Dorset’s Bin Your Butt and focus on reducing cigarette-related litter on Ferndown’s streets and in your public spaces.

Cigarette butts are one of the most commonly collected bits of litter within the UK. Due to their small size, people don’t often think of them as litter. Not only are cigarette butts unsightly, but the filters also contain plastic fibres; if they make their way down the drains, it means they stick around once in the sea, and can take between 18 months to 10 years to decompose.

There will be an event on Tuesday 26 September 10am–4pm in Ferndown town centre to highlight the issue of cigarette butts. Giant cigarette butts will be put in different locations around the town centre and the campaign will provide ‘stubby packs’ for smokers to deposit their used cigarette butts. The campaign runs until the end of October, so if you run a business and want a free stubby pack for smokers, or an A4 poster to display, give Litter Free Dorset a call.

Support and share the campaign on social media. It is running on Litter Free Dorset social media pages. For more information call Litter Free Dorset on 01305 224731 or email litterfreedorset@dorsetcc.gov.uk These photographs were taken in Ferndown.

Big splash RAISES £1,500 cash!

The 18th Wimborne in Bloom August Bank Holiday duck race raised a stream of cash, boosting In Bloom funds during its silver anniversary year. Launched into the River Allen by the town mayor Cllr Terry Wheeler and mayoress Mrs Pauline Wheeler together with the chairman of Wimborne in Bloom Richard Nunn and committee members, the mass of ducks set off on Saturday 26 August.

After 15 minutes bobbing on the water the first home was a co-ownership duck bought

by Christine Holder and Alec Glover who won £50 each. Coownership helps meet the ducky demand. The organisers say it would be impractical to increase beyond 1,000 the number of ducks launched into the river.

2nd Marlene Clarke (£25), 3rd Nicki Clarke (£10), 4th Kay Wallbridge (£5): 5th co-owned £5 each Gemma Bell and Jessica Morgan: 6th Anna Hillman (£5).

Last duck home was co-owned

by Steve Doherty and Mr/Mrs Meaden who won a bottle of wine each.

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VIEWPOINT September 2017

Local author sets 5th book in a troubled Britain What do you think the world will be like in 2150? stranger, or the man she once loved? Through all the anguish and selfanalysis, the one constant that keeps her moving forward is her search for a treasured cane elephant.

She knows when she finds him, her true identity will be revealed, but will she be ready for the shock of knowing?

“Even if futuristic isn’t your type of genre, Cane Elephant is more about the unravelling of a mind and has a very dark side,” says Janine who admits her novels have never sold

“

Gripping.

I read this in one sitting

“

This is the year that Dorset author Janine Pulford has set her 5th book, Cane Elephant, in a Britain that has suppressed the growing influence of Islam, which now predominates throughout Europe. There has been a Third World War, elephants are extinct and memory washing techniques have been developed to clear the minds of criminals and produce slave-like Ekeeds who question nothing, yet repeat themselves three times over.

Janine, from West Moors, uses this thoughtprovoking background when entering the mind of a young woman who wakes from a coma. She doesn’t recognise her name, her looks, or the person who claims to be her mother and takes her ‘home’. But she does relate to the three fingers on her left hand. Feeling isolated, tension builds as her new identity tries to take hold and she escapes to go in search of her past.

Will meeting Steve along the way cause more havoc? And is Zawal a

Best selling author Della Galton.

sufficiently to allow her to give up her day job as the mags4dorset editor and magazine publisher. “But I would love one of my stories to fly. Cane Elephant is a novella rather than a novel, so it is a bit shorter.

Maybe less will be more in this instance.”

The ebook can be downloaded priced £2.39 from Amazon, where all Janine’s other titles including her popular romantic thriller The Whispering Waters are listed. Its sequel Flyaway Angel is now underway.

You can meet Janine Pulford on Facebook www.facebook.com/janine.pulford and at www.facebook.com/mags4dorset.news

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

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Model makers build and talk The Royal British Legion (RBL) Ferndown Model Society, entertained residents at Colten Care’s Amberwood House with an array of model planes, cars, motorcycles and even remote-controlled tanks last month.

Tony Ansell, chairman of the society explained, “We started the club in February 2016 and our membership now includes model makers of all ages, who build everything from large warships, to tanks that fire guns and even dolls’ houses.

Amberwood House contacted us after hearing what we do and invited us along to give a presentation – and the residents have been a very enthusiastic audience.”

Assisting Tony in his presentation was fellow-

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society member Bev Johnson and also James Dixon, aged 10. Tony said, “I met James and his mum in the model-making aisle at Hobbycraft in Ferndown and he came along to Amberwood as a helper.

We are very lucky at the club to be sponsored by Hobbycraft, which provides us with many of our model kits.”

“Needless to say the residents really enjoyed meeting James and hearing all about his model making and, we’re hoping he has inspired some of them.”

VIEWPOINT September 2017

Activities organiser, Julia Hough, said, “Tony and James’s talk was a real success. The residents were very animated – asking questions about the specialist tools the model makers use and talking about their own family members and friends who flew some of the planes and sailed in some of the ships which were on display. The remote-controlled tanks which fired their guns were also a big hit and we were very grateful to receive some kits, which we will be attempting to build in the coming weeks.”

The RBL Ferndown Model Society meets on the last Thursday of the month at the Royal British Legion, Church Road, from 8pm. Contact Tony Ansell on 07815 824841 for further information.

Meet Dorset’s new Sustainability Champions These Dorset residents have been recruited as volunteer Sustainability Champions and, if you’re looking for local information or advice on sustainability, then these are the people to speak to.

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his new initiative from Sustainable Dorset aims to build a network of Sustainability Champions across the county. Each champion will represent their own local area, whilst together creating a countywide collaborative partnership to share and

support sustainability in the region.

Angela Fendley, community engagement officer for Sustainable Dorset says, “Having this network of Sustainability Champions is a great way of learning and sharing innovative ideas and ways of working, and allows us to keep abreast of all that is happening across Dorset.”

Pam can help you get to grips with sustainable food; Soo is a pioneer for renewable energy; while Theresa can help you discover permaculture and community gardening.

You might want to know how to get something repaired; campaign about environmental issues; try out an electric bike; or know where to recycle those unwanted items.

Visit the website sustainabledorset.org to connect with the Champions and to find out about sustainable news and events from across Dorset. You can also get in touch if you would like to become a Sustainability Champion yourself, or if you have a project or initiative you would like them to feature. Maybe you would like the Champions to come to your event?

They are happy to share their passion and knowledge of all that is happening in the region.

Plumber-turned-palaeontologist, Steve Etches, receives his Honorary Doctorate from the University of Southampton

Plumber-turnedpalaeontologist awarded Honorary Doctorate Dorset plumber Steve Etches has received an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Southampton to add to his accolades.

Over the 35 years that Dorset plumber Steve Etches has spent collecting fossils from the county’s Kimmeridge Bay, he never thought that one day he would be addressing a room of university graduates as recipient of an Honorary Doctorate.

That reality recently came true when the University of Southampton made Steve an Honorary Doctor of Science during ceremonies to celebrate the graduates of degree programmes in Ocean and Earth Science.

“It feels quite extraordinary to receive an Honorary Doctorate; it’s well out of my remit when you think about my background,” said Steve. “I didn’t go to university.

I should have but I was a late developer – still late developing now – and I’ve done it on the back of running a business as well, so the sky’s the limit.

“If you’ve really got the passion and the flair to do something I’m sure that anyone can do the same,” he continued. “I think that everyone’s got a gift and if you find that gift, you develop it and this is what it’s really led to for me in so many ways.”

Although he had a fascination for fossils as a child, he admits that it wasn’t until he began taking his family for days out along the coast – in the midst of working long hours when he established his business – that he started finding materials from the Kimmeridge clay, which form the basis of his collection.

At last count, Steve now has over 2,000 Late Jurassic specimens from Dorset. His finds include the world’s first ammonite eggs, the first pterosaur skull from the Kimmeridge clay and, the first from Dorset for 200 years, the largest collection of pterosaur remains and a diverse Kimmeridge fish collection.

In 2016, those specimens found a home in the Dorset village of Kimmeridge with the opening of The Etches Collection Museum of Jurassic Marine Life, realising one of Steve’s long-held dreams. The museum, which features a learning and visitor centre, is also home to a virtual aquarium and interactive exhibition that brings to life the incredible stories from deep in time.

“Receiving this Honorary Doctorate will, I hope, create a more natural link between the museum and the University of Southampton …We’re still actively collecting material and there is much more to be discovered,” Steve said.

He has already been recognised with The Mary Anning Prize twice in 1993 and 2005, the RH Worth Prize, 1994 and The Halstead Medal. In 2014, Steve was awarded an MBE for services to Palaeontology, the first time an MBE has been awarded for this category.

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

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LAW SPOT

Farewell to Vanessa Herrick

When holidays go wrong

by Hugh Storry Deans, Litigation Solicitor at Harold G Walker Solicitors Holidays vary from special occasions such as a honeymoon or anniversary, to a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity or a luxury cruise. This may be contrasted with a more ordinary package holiday taken every year. Sometimes things go wrong.

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ssessing the value for loss for distress or inconvenience in such cases can be a complex exercise and as ever depends on the particular facts and establishing fault. Claims for illness are not new but a recent court decision unexpectedly permitted a holiday couple to rely upon consumer legislation in pursuing a claim for contaminated hotel food in order to hold the tour operator strictly liable to pay them damages.

Claims require clear evidence if they are likely to succeed. A gastric illness must be proved to have been caused by the particular food eaten on a particular day at a particular place. A doctor’s medical certificate would be a minimum requirement but that may do no more than confirm the diagnosis. To succeed in a claim it would be necessary to go further and to identify specific failings and this can often be more difficult to establish. Mass outbreaks are not uncommon,

Law Spot is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice

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VIEWPOINT September 2017

frequently where multiple food choices are offered buffet-style.

Whether your claim relates to an illness or disappointment it is important to gather as much evidence as possible.

No doubt the last thing on your mind when you are suffering great distress and inconvenience, and perhaps confined to your hotel room or cabin, is to record or document the facts and matters that you will later need to rely upon to bring a successful claim for damages.

The rector of Wimborne Minster presided and preached at the 9.45am Parish Eucharist service in Wimborne Minster for the last time on 30 July.

She has now become Archdeacon of Harlow.

Gifts were presented to Vanessa and her husband the Revd David Herrick after the last service. They intend to purchase garden furniture for their new home in Essex.

The rector expressed thanks to all those who had helped and supported her in the five-and-a-half years she has been rector of Wimborne Minster and

more recently also of the Northern Villages.

“We will miss you all,” she said before presenting to the Minster a ‘Book of the Gospels’ and a new edition of the ‘Book of Common Prayer’.

On behalf of the Friends of Wimborne Minster, the secretary Peter Cook proposed that Vanessa be appointed as a vice president of the Friends.

The service for Vanessa’s collation and installation as Archdeacon of Harlow will be held in Chelmsford Cathedral on Sunday 24 September.

Rector with flowers and, L-R Andy Jempson, Francis Vine, Anthony Oliver, Rev’d Bill French and Rev’d Dr Brenda Gibson, Donald Fromow, Rev’d Canon David Herrick, Rev’d Alan Davies, Elfie Mills, Cedric Mogg, Mike Downton, Ashley Coombs and De Ashton

charity of the year

RNLI

Rescue demos provide wow factor Poole lifeboat volunteers promised fun for all the family and there certainly was at the annual Poole Lifeboat Station Open Day. Crowds flocked to the quayside, basking in the fair weather, and found plenty to see and do in and around the lifeboat station with side stalls, games, entertainment and lifeboats.

Also in attendance was the fire and rescue engine, coastguards, sea safety officers and RNLI lifeguards, all on hand to meet and chat with the visitors, but it was the rescue demonstrations that provided the wow factor.

The lifeboat volunteers were in action on the hour.

Along with the lifeguards they thrilled the crowds

with the demonstrations between the quays. For the followers on Facebook there was live streaming of all the action.

Plenty of enticing refreshments, buoyed by the well-supported ‘Bake Off,’ helped sustain the visitors.

Poole’s volunteer lifeboat operations manager, Rod Brown, had the enviable task of selecting the winning entries from the amazing array of delicious goodies.

After counting all the pennies – cue drum roll – a whopping £3,500 had been raised. All the money donated from the open day will go to help saving lives at sea by Poole Lifeboat Station crew.

Rod Brown said, “We have had a fantastic turnout once again. On behalf of the crew I would like to thank the visitors for their support and all the businesses that have supported the station with their very kind donations.

“I would also like to thank each and every one of the people who have all contributed in some way or another to make the day possible. Being a voluntary organisation, we depend entirely on the generosity and support of the local community.

“This is the station’s biggest fundraiser of the year and we are grateful and mindful of all the support, thank you.”

Eye, eye Captain

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

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Letter

Anonymous donations thanks to Viewpoint

Just a quick note to thank you on behalf of the Multiple Sclerosis Society - Bournemouth Branch at West Parley, for the support you showed in publishing the details of a recent theft from the society. This publicity was much appreciated, and many anonymous donations have subsequently been received at the centre.

Multiple Sclerosis Society Bournemouth Branch

Projects progress separately

Following a meeting between the Ringwood Regal action group and the Rigwood Arts Centre steering group, it has been decided that the two projects will continue separately, at least until the Regal building can be procured. If that happens the Arts Centre team may reconsider its position.

Both groups are aiming to provide theatres in Ringwood – the Regal could cost £5.4m and the Arts Centre project is estimated to be £7m. The Arts Centre will offer around 250 seats aimed at professional and amateur entertainment groups as well as a cinema, whereas the Regal plans are for a 600-seat professional theatre.

The suggestion that the groups work together had been made by Ringwood people.

35th year marked with tandem ride

Fordingbridge Twinning Association members Tim Wheatley and Dave Green will be riding a tandem from Le Havre to Vimoutiers on 14 October to mark the 35th anniversary of the twinning between Fordingbridge and Vimoutiers.

Six people from Fordingbridge rode the same route on the occasion of the signing of the twinning charter in 1982.

For further details of the Fordingbridge Twinning Association, which will be visiting Vimoutiers in October, call 01425 650770, or email: hippotrain@btinternet.com

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VIEWPOINT September 2017

VCB mourns loss of euphonium player Ian Jarvie, the principal euphonium player with Verwood Concert Brass, passed away peacefully on 29 August following a progressive illness.

He had kept his illness ‘quiet’ as it is understood that he wanted to continue playing for as long as he was able to do so without fuss. It was only in recent weeks that he was not well enough to attend rehearsals.

In a tribute, Verwood Concert Brass said, “This is perhaps reflective of Ian’s character. He might best be described by the old-fashioned term of being a gentleman and was indeed a gentle man too, being quiet and unassuming. And yet he played in one of the hottest seats in the band, as the principal euphonium player, which demands a lot and leaves few places to hide. He simply took on board whatever was thrown at him with no fuss and let his musical skill and playing ability shine through.”

Ian joined Verwood Town Band in 2015 and could always be relied upon to attend band rehearsals and play at concerts and other gigs, as well as the high pressure of performing at contests.

Shoebox appeal launched The Help the Homeless Christmas shoebox appeal was launched on 2 September at Meridian Air Conditioning, 529 Ringwood Road, Ferndown – the collection point. You can drop off accessories such as socks, gloves and hats, and confectionary as well as toiletries (no aerosols). “Full shoeboxes and full bags for life are welcome too,” says organiser Steve Lugg. Drop offs will be accepted during Meridian’s opening hours until 29 November.

Shoebox Appeal launch with mayor Cllr Cathy Lugg, Suzanne Lovell from Meridian, Kath Osborne senior manager at the local homeless centre, Ben Pulford, secretary of chamber of commerce and others.

- advertising feature -

Don’t miss the opportunity to get active Do you remember the feeling the last time you danced?

Did you glide around the kitchen or jive with your toddler when no one was watching?

Did you turn up the radio and dance your heart out?

It felt amazing didn’t it? Well, why not feel that way every week?

It doesn’t matter how old you are, or your dance experience, Fordingbridge Dance Studios has something for everyone aged 3 to 93.

From fitness, ballet, tap, modern and acrobatic classes for active dancers to Silver Swans for the older learners, you can enjoy dance whatever your mobility issues.

Fordingbridge Dance Studios also offers Ballet Conditioning to assist other dance forms without the need to attend a traditional ballet class.

In September Sportsdance, the class for boys to learn a variety of styles including acrobatics, returns. It will help improve balance, coordination, stamina, timing and footwork – attributes muchneeded for sport.

Enrol now at Fordingbridge Dance Studios. All activities are supported by qualified teachers and held at Avonway Community Centre in Fordingbridge and The Hub in Verwood.

Contact FordingbridgeDanceStudios@ gmail.com or 07718 535007 for further details.

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VIEWPOINT September 2017

Back in the day of working horses

By Julian Hewitt

Fordingbridge Museum has a large collection of early photographs of the town and the surrounding area.

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any of these feature horses which, before the advent of the motorcar, were the main means of transport and power for agriculture and industry.

Wild horses were domesticated and used for travel and warfare as early as the Bronze and Iron ages.

Images of horses cut into the hillside, such as the one at Uffington show the importance placed on the horse at this time.

Local tribes using horses fought the Romans when they invaded Britain in 55 BC. The Anglo Saxon period saw horses used extensively and the Bayeux Tapestry shows William bringing over horses in his boats when he invaded in 1066.

In the industrial revolution horses were employed to pull barges full of goods along canals.

Using the towpaths alongside the canals they could pull much greater loads than they could on the roads.

As roads improved at the end of the 18th and beginning of the 19th century, horse-drawn coach

transport flourished.

Coaching inns were set up along the routes to provide a change of horses, refreshments and accommodation.

The George and The Crown are good examples of coaching inns that survive in Fordingbridge.

On farms, as machinery became lighter and roads improved, oxen were replaced by heavy horses for ploughing and hauling loads.

We think of road pollution as a modern problem caused by petrol engines but, with the average horse producing up to 35 pounds of manure and two pints of urine a day, 19th century roads could be very smelly and messy.

Today, although some breweries have drays pulled by heavy horses, these magnificent animals are now usually kept by enthusiasts who are keen to preserve individual breeds.

In the Fordingbridge area you may have seen the beautiful Comtois horse owned by Mr David Shering. This breed of horses originated in northern Germany and they were later widely used in France.

They are well-known for their good nature, endurance and balance, are quick to learn, and are particularly suited to hauling timber.

They are usually a shade of chestnut but have light flaxen manes and tails.

David recently demonstrated the traditional use of working horses in farming and forestry in the fields behind St Mary’s Church with all proceeds going to Fordingbridge Museum.

ringwood NEWS

World Cup Poppy drops in Former Ellingham & Ringwood player, Poppy Cleall, headed straight to her club after returning from the Women’s Rugby World Cup, stopping only to meet the Prime Minister at Downing Street with the rest of the squad.

Poppy said “It was really exciting to play in my first World Cup, particularly with all the television and media coverage, but it was bitterly disappointing to lose in the final to New Zealand.”

Poppy showed off her silver medal to former coach Steve Benson, former teammates and the club’s 1st XV squad. She

Band played new venue

also donated and signed one of her World Cup shirts, which the club will frame and display at the clubhouse.

The England squad were on professional contracts leading up to the World Cup, but controversially the RFU has ended these and are only offering contracts to their sevens squad. Poppy, who now plays for Premiership side Bristol, is hoping to resume her career in the prison service while continuing to train and play for her club and country.

After having two engagements cancelled due to bad weather, the Ringwood and Burley Band performed at a new venue in the summer. The concert at Hockey’s Farm Shop in Gorley was enjoyed by those visiting the restaurant and viewing other attractions at the venue.

The next concert is on Sunday 29 October ‘We will remember them’ at the Barrington Theatre, Ferndown at 3pm. And if it’s not too early to think about Christmas, make a note in your diary that the band will be in Ringwood on Saturday morning, 16 December, playing carols. Visit ringwoodandburleyband.co.uk for more details.

Arty result

The overall winner of the Ringwood Art Society Summer Exhibition was Alan Gibson with his photograph ‘Early Morning – Guilin, China’.

The exhibition, which is incorporated in the Hampshire Open Studios event showcased over 300 works by professional and amateur artists of varying styles and media including paintings, ceramics, portfolios and greetings cards.

The society was formed in 1968 and now has over 150 members. The club meets monthly on a Monday evening with talks and demonstrations by professional artists followed by monthly workshops.

New members are always welcome www.ringwoodartsociety.org

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

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ringwood NEWS EXCELLENT RESULTS AT

Fraser Dart (left)

GCSE Students

This year sees the first awarding of grades 9-1 in the reformed English language, English literature and maths GCSEs. As with the reformed A Levels, these new qualifications are more robust and have no internal controlled assessment that takes place during the two-year course. Results therefore are wholly dependent on the terminal examinations in these subjects.

These new exams are being described on BBC news as “the hardest exams since the 1980s.”

The percentage of those achieving a Level 2 qualification in English and maths at Ringwood School rose significantly, despite these qualifications getting much harder and the national picture being one of little change compared to last year in terms of grade distribution at GCSE level.

Celebrating GCSE results

Ringwood School

Particular congratulations to – Jez Adgie-Dennison 4A*s; 2As; 2x9s, 1x8; Emily Broughton 4A*s; 3As; 2x8; 1x9 and a starred distinction in ECDL; Fraser Dart 2A*s; 4As; 3x9s and a starred distinction in ECDL; Alaisdair Davies 6A*s; 1A; 1x7; 1x8 and 1x9 and a starred distinction in ECDL. The percentage of top grade A Levels (grades A*/A/B) was 49% and the percentage of A*-C grades was 81%.

Two notables were Callum Renton 4A* who is going on to read Economics at LSE and Cameron Davies 3A*/A who is progressing to Warwick to read Computer Science. In Year 12 particular congratulations go to the three students who achieved straight As in their 4 AS level subjects – Rachel Carr; Milo Gill and Betsy Lake.

A Level students

Genealogically speaking…

Manorial Records will be the subject of guest speaker Colin Moretti at the Ringwood Group of the Hampshire Genealogical Society. The event will take place at Greyfriars

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VIEWPOINT September 2017

Community Centre in Ringwood on Wednesday 20 September commencing at 7.30pm.

Manorial records are a vital source for local, social, family and

economic history. They hold information on local agriculture, the resolution of disagreements between tenants and the transfer of property amongst tenants. In the case of urban manors, records contain details of markets, trade and industrial developments. They can also tell a great deal about the community living in the manor, its social structure, households and the local economy.

Both HGS members and visitors are invited to join the society for this interesting subject.

For further information on the HGS please contact the group organiser, Paul Pinhorne on 07982 257510 or email ringwood@hgsonline.org.uk

ringwood NEWS

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

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health & FITNESS Air Ambulance announces competition to name new aircraft Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance is running a competition to help find a name for their new AW169 helicopter.

The aircraft became operational on 12 June and has already flown a number of lifesaving missions.

Within hours of being on-line, the Critical Care Team was tasked to their

first incident that involved an adult male who had suffered a cardiac arrest.

The competition’s winning name will be displayed on the aircraft for all to see, for years to come.

Suggested entries should sum up what the helicopter is all about and the important part it plays in

the delivery of the service.

Entries should be no more than 25 characters long (including spaces) and they should be submitted by email or post only. The closing date is Friday 20 October 2017.

A panel of judges, which will include both of the Air Ambulance Patrons, Lord Lieutenant of Dorset, Angus Campbell, and Lord Lieutenant of Somerset, Annie Maw, together with other representatives from the charity, will decide on the winning name. The winner will be notified on

27 October and invited to an official event later in the year when the name will be unveiled.

Entries should be titled ‘AW169 Naming Competition’ and include full contact details of the sender. They should be submitted by email to: communications@ dsairambulance.org.uk or via post to: DSAA, Landacre House, Castle Road, Chelston Business Park, Wellington, TA21 9JQ. More information on Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance can be found by visiting www.dsairambulance.org.uk or by calling 01823 669604.

- advertising feature -

Move more

This September Ferndown Leisure is aiming is to motivate and encourage you to give things a go, set new habits and move more for a positive change.

Pétanque

Pétanque is a form of boules where the goal is to toss or roll hollow steel balls as close as possible to a small wooden ball called a cochonnet or jack, while standing inside a circle with both feet on the ground.

Taster sessions were held on 6 and 7 September.

However, courses run after the tasters to enable you to develop your skills and are open to everyone so do go along and have a go. Email joannesinclair@pfpleisure.org for more information.

“Sweating and smiling” membership offer

For this membership offer, pay no joining fee this month and make working out a priority. With Premium membership you get: unlimited gym, swim and classes, free use of the Places Locker App, and track your swim with SWIMTAG. A swim-only membership is also available for those who just wish to take a plunge in the pool, or smash that next personal best. Join online today using code SEPT17 or call the centre.

Adult Learn to Swim

Ferndown Leisure say research shows that 1 in 5 adults cannot swim, meaning approximately 800,000 people could benefit from beginner lessons and even more, from improver or technique lessons. Now is a great time to start, or get back in the water, on the adult pathway, split into four stages of Beginner (Learn), Improver (Like), Technique (Love) and Advanced (Live), allowing you to take the journey from complete beginner to taking part in triathlon or Masters swimming. There is a whole new social world beyond the water and Ferndown Leisure is there to help you find it.

Date for the diary: 27 September is National Fitness Day – free fitness classes and sessions are available.

For more information about activities at Ferndown Leisure Centre please ring 01202 877468 or visit www. ferndownleisurecentre. co.uk

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VIEWPOINT September 2017

health & FITNESS

FOUR-LEGGED LOFTY spreads a little happiness Rarely can you walk the corridors of a hospital ward and be greeted by a 34-inch horse - but this is exactly what staff and patients at Blandford Hospital have been experiencing.

Lofty, the American miniature horse has been bringing joy and smiles at the busy community hospital.

The five-year-old is a qualified therapy horse, bringing comfort to patients with a love of animals, rekindling memories, creating conversation and leaving a ‘feel good’ legacy.

Bringing Lofty onto the Tarrant Ward at Blandford Hospital was the idea of ward sister Kimberly Witt, who spotted on social media the positive effect he was having at care homes and special needs schools.

After a brief conversation with owners April and Steve Kibby, Lofty was soon donning his tailor-made, Conversebranded shoes and strutting his stuff.

Kimberly said, “I knew he would prove popular among everyone he met, but the positivity he brought and the reactions

he got from patients was amazing.

“We had one lady in particular with dementia and profound deafness who seemed to strike up an immediate connection with Lofty, having found it difficult to communicate with the staff looking after her.

“As soon as Lofty entered her room, she stroked and held his muzzle and gazed into his eyes with a smile. It was moments like this that made the whole thing worthwhile.”

Senior Sister Gill Wood, added, “Lofty’s presence just gave everyone a high, and reminded patients that there is life outside these hospital walls. It is surprising how many of our

patients can relate to him or have memories of horses they once owned or have known in the past.”

Demand for Lofty’s return to Blandford Hospital has been so high, he will be heading back there in November.

Hospital’s new ‘changing places’ facility installed

The Royal Bournemouth Hospital (RBH) has invested £45,000 in a new ‘changing places’ facility to improve accessibility for patients and visitors with disabilities.

A ‘changing places’ installation is a large bathroom area containing an adult-sized changing table and a hoist, allowing visitors to safely change children and adults who need assistance. The new space at RBH is on the ground floor of the west wing with easy access to the main entrance.

A national campaign was launched in 2006 to improve changing facilities in the community. Since then more than 1,000 changing places have opened in the UK and their locations are listed on the Mencap website, ensuring those who need to use them can plan journeys with greater confidence and ease.

To find out more about the campaign visit www.changing-places.org Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

| 17

health & FITNESS BOURNEMOUTH MARATHON FESTIVAL

returns for its fifth year Thousands of runners from the UK and beyond are expected to descend on the Dorset coastline for the fifth Bournemouth Marathon Festival (BMF) on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 October.

T Photo: © Paul Roberts

he full weekend of events features the Supernova 5k, the fast and flat Supersonic 10k and four junior races on the Saturday, with the marathon and half marathon races on Sunday.

The choice of eight race distances provides a great opportunity for groups of runners or families to enjoy a full weekend by the coast.

The routes on offer showcase Bournemouth and Poole at its very best, taking in panoramic views of the bay, including sights of the iconic Bournemouth and Boscombe piers.

Last year’s event saw Ben Smith, the official starter of the full marathon, complete the race as part of his 401 challenge – to run 401 marathons in as many days and raise money for Kidscape and Stonewall.

He said, “It was an absolute honour to be the official starter of the Bournemouth Marathon.

This is the third year I’ve done this event and it gets better and better every year.”

There were plenty of other inspirational people helping to make a difference. One such example was Holly Jobling. In 2015, Holly had lifesaving surgery for cervical cancer. One year on and she had completed her first ever half marathon for the Bournemouth Marathon Festival official charity partner, Macmillan Cancer Support.

Holly explained, “I chose this charity to say a massive thank you. My journey would have been a lot harder without them.”

Race organisers are encouraging runners to get their trainers on and help make 2017 even better than last year. With eight race distances on offer there is something for everyone, from the seasoned runner to the charity fundraiser, and beginners and youngsters.

If you’d like to get involved with BMF 2017 and for more information on the event, visit www.bournemouthmarathon.com.

BERTIEONLINE

Shortlisted for national award

A diabetes education forum designed and relaunched last year by the Diabetes Team at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital (RBH) has been shortlisted for a national award.

BERTIEonline, an online platform offering education for people with Type 1 diabetes, was selected as a finalist in the ‘Digital and Technology Solutions in the Treatment or Management of Diabetes’ category in the Quality in Care (QiC) Diabetes 2017 Awards.

The portal offers vital information via a unique platform and also provides a forum for people to share their experiences and build a support network – ideal for those who have recently been diagnosed and may be feeling alone and overwhelmed.

Helen Partridge, RBH diabetes consultant, said, “This recognition is a true reflection of the amazing team we have and the commitment they have put into this project. I think it’s fair to say we are delighted to have been recognised and it gives us the encouragement to go on and develop the website further into a suite of educational tools for people with type 1 diabetes and their health care team.”

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VIEWPOINT September 2017

Jumping high the parkour way

Surprise fly-past, AWOL beer and hot dogs

– what a Rustic Fayre!

Report by Janine Pulford Photos by CatchBox and Tom Scrase

The 24th annual Rustic Fayre on Bank Holiday Monday, whilst being ranked as one of the best with 4,500 visitors and over £12,000 raised, wasn’t without its moments.

Bottled water sold out, the Pimm’s tent ran dry twice and on the hottest bank holiday since records began, the beer didn’t turn up.

“Luckily we had a couple of barrels to tide us over,” said organiser Vern Harris, who was wondering what to do as the queues of hot and thirsty visitors got Terrier racing

Football skills

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VIEWPOINT September 2017

longer and the barrels started to run dry. He went to buy beer from the local supermarket only to discover he’d forgotten his wallet. On going home to pick it up, he found the Ringwood Brewery lorry outside his house with the missing beer. “It’s the first time in over 20 years that this has happened,” said Vern who, with great relief sent the beer to Potterne Park and got on with the job of pulling pints.

He thought the planned fly past was scuppered too, having had news that the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight was grounded with engine-related problems. The Rotary Club was disappointed on behalf of those who turned up expecting to see the fly past, but at the last minute news came through that a Spitfire with a different engine was on its way. The show-stopper flew past three times and even dipped its wings to the Rustic revellers.

riding for the disabled

“It’s the first time in over 20 years that this has happened,” Arena acts entertained nonstop with dog agility, Pedal Power vs Parkour, and a tae-kwon do display by Stephen Lamberth’s team; there were stalls a-plenty, live music, classic vehicles and a tug-of-war; the terrier heats were reduced due to the extreme temperature, so those wanting to see more hot dogs had to go to the barbecue.

rustic crafts

verwood panto

By the time the corporate duck race took off, temperatures had soared and many people had left – probably to go to the beach. Results were: 1st Forest FM, 2nd Irvings and Sons, 3rd The Lakes Dental Practice. The £500 raffle, drawn by the town mayor was won by a Verwood man.

look at my rosettes

back support pedal power

my little pony

Money raised at the Rustic Fayre will go to local charities and good causes. Applications for a share of the pot can be made to the Rotary Club of Verwood via its website and the presentation evening will be held in November.

lauren page

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

| 21

education NEWS

QE achieves FUS It’s a record year for exam results at Queen Elizabeth’s School in Wimborne.

At A Level, 53% of students gained top grades and an overall pass rate of 99%.

Almost a third of the results obtained by students were at A*-A. The mathematics results were exceptional with 44% of students obtaining an A* or A. In the school’s wide range of vocational qualifications, the number of students achieving a distinction or distinction* (equivalent to a grade A/A* at A Level) was 70%.

Though GCSEs were more difficult to compare with last year’s results due to the changes in the system, the percentage of students achieving grades 4 and above in mathematics and English was 71% and 76%.

best ever A Levels Ferndown Upper School (FUS) is celebrating an increase on all headline GCSE results and its best ever set of A Level GCSE Rosie Hou results with around (achieved 10A* and A grades) a third of all grades being A* or A. Every student in Year 13 gained a place at university or is in full time employment. Attainment at GCSE was up to 49 points, meaning on average students achieved the challenging new grade 5, or its equivalent.

A Level celebrations: Millie Harris, Hannah Johnstone and Katy Dunn

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VIEWPOINT September 2017

Apply now for school places for 2018 Now is the time to apply for school places in 2018.

Parents have until 31 October to apply for a place for children due to start secondary or upper school in September 2018. For children due to start school for the first time, or moving from infant to junior school or first to middle school in September 2018, parents have until 15 January 2018 to apply.

Autumn open morning at Dumpton

Choosing the right school for your child is a major decision. Dumpton is holding a nursery and reception open morning, so you can visit and experience for yourself the friendly, family atmosphere and all that is on offer. The open morning will take place on Friday 6 October at 10am – please call 01202 883818 or register online at www.dumpton.com. The school is also very happy to arrange individual visits throughout the year.

education NEWS - advertising feature -

Message from Mrs Gill Allen, Headteacher, Ferndown Middle School

Prospective parents and carers, together with their child, are warmly invited to come along to our open evening and/or open morning. The purpose of the visit is to tour the school, talk to the staff and pupils and to find out more information about us as a school. Ferndown Middle is a highly successful school with a real sense of community. I am very proud to be the head teacher of a lively and happy school providing a high standard of education as

well as extensive opportunities for all pupils to engage with. By fostering the positive values of care and co-operation we provide a secure basis for children’s education. By working together as a team, our pupils of all abilities and backgrounds are encouraged to pursue excellence in all aspects of school life. If you are unable to make one of the open events please contact the school office to arrange a visit and tour; you will be made very welcome.

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

| 23

foodie NEWS

PROMOTING LOCAL FOOD Local food was promoted at an open day held in the summer for members of the Dorset branch of the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE).

Held at Langham Wine Estate, members not only went on a vineyard and winery tour to sample Justin Langham’s awardwinning English sparkling wines, but also enjoyed produce from various local Dorset food makers.

This included beef and other meat from the Brace of Butchers in Poundbury, Blue Vinny cheese and chutneys from Dorset Blue, as well as cheese from Ford Farm, the biggest

producer of Traditional West Country Farmhouse Cheddar in the UK. All three have won prizes for their produce.

Rupert Hardy from Dorset CPRE writes about local foods and their makers, and said he also “wants to highlight some of the problems local quality food and wine producers experience. These mostly concern distribution and include the reluctance of most supermarkets either

to stock local products or give them a reasonable profit margin, the slowness of many catering outlets to highlight the provenance of their raw materials on menus, poor promotion of farmers’ markets, and as always the burden of red tape.”

CPRE also developed some years ago the concept of local food webs – the connections between producers, retailers and consumers – which highlights the importance to the local economy, landscape and community of local foods.

A new initiative has also been launched by Dorset CPRE to promote local food and drink

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VIEWPOINT September 2017

foodie NEWS producers. This follows on from a campaign to help village shops face the relentless onslaught from supermarkets. It sponsors a class, Best Village Shop, in the Best Dorset Village competition run by Dorset Community Action.

Dorset CPRE strongly believes in supporting farmers, especially the more environmentally responsible ones, at a time when the whole question of farm subsidies is up for debate, given Brexit.

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

| 27

HOMELESSNESS PROJECT

appeals for volunteers

was the first volunteer host for the service in 2009. He said: “…Many I’ve helped had been sofa surfing at different friends’ houses for a long time and then suddenly one day they’d run out of sofas. It’s great often to see the young person on their first night – as soon as they arrive and realise they’re safe, you see their shoulders drop, their concerned look disappears and they go straight to bed after a hot meal.”

Staff at Dorset Nightstop provide full training for its volunteers as well as close 24/7 on-call support during placements. The service is also looking for volunteer drivers with a full, valid, British driving licence and fully comprehensive insurance.

The next training sessions for volunteer hosts will be held at Broadstone Methodist Church between 28 September and 12 October.

To register your training place, offer your driving services, or find out more about Action for Children’s Dorset Nightstop, please call Simon Keys on 01305 753 657 / 07779 029 292 or email simon.keys@ actionforchildren.org.uk

See Blofeld And Swann

– The Second Over The Summer may be coming to an end but there is still a chance to enjoy some cricket entertainment this autumn, when Graeme Swann, England’s greatest ever spin bowler and the Voice of BBC Cricket, Henry Blofeld, join up for the The Great British Spin Off at the Regent in Christchurch on 4 October at 7.30pm.

This will be a light-hearted look at the state of English cricket today with plenty of humourous anecdotes about the game both past and present. Henry Blofeld is just about to retire from BBC commentary, so he might feel free to deliver a few googlies on the night. Expect an evening full of surprises, anecdotes, impressions and more.

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VIEWPOINT September 2017

Missing jewellery from New Forest and Dorset

Detectives in Southampton are trying to identify the owners of recently recovered jewellery items they suspect were stolen during burglaries committed in the New Forest and Dorset areas between December 2016 and August 2017.

Hampshire Police have shared images of the jewellery on their Flikr account ‘Is this yours?’ in the hope they can reunite the items with rightful owners.

If you recognise any of these items, please call 101 and ask for Police Staff Investigator Helen Mills at Southampton Central Police Station. Proof of ownership will be required.

LIVE:

FERNDOWN

is back!

It’s expected to be bigger and better, and in partnership with the Ferndown Potato Pants Festival taking place on 3 June 2018 at High Mead Farm, Longham.

Sponsored by R T Knight Eyewear and Xerocad Printing Ltd, the competition already has 16 confirmed entries – so with a maximum of 21 in the semifinals, get your entry in now.

The semi-finals are being held at the Forest Inn on 13 October, 17 November and

19 January, with the exciting Grand Final taking place at the Barrington Theatre on Saturday 21 April 2018, when prizes will be presented by The Worshipful, The Mayor of Ferndown.

Hosted by ‘Chrissyferkin’, and with an experienced panel of judges, a guest set will be played by a band with Ferndown links, One Word. Check them out on You Tube or Facebook.

Categories for 2018 are: Audience Love; Best Original Song; Best Band or Group;

Emma-Jane Toop © Paradox Photography

A Dorchester-based project that provides emergency accommodation to young people marked its eighth anniversary on 25 August.

Run by the charity Action for Children since 2009, Dorset Nightstop places young people aged 16 to 25 with host families at times when they have nowhere else to go.

With youth homelessness an increasing problem across the region, the service is urgently appealing to local residents to consider offering their spare room to a young person for up to three nights a month. Project co-ordinator Simon Keys said, “We’re really proud of what we’ve achieved over the past eight years and our success has been entirely down to our fantastic volunteer hosts. By giving a vulnerable young person a safe and secure home for a few days means they don’t end up sleeping on the streets and are away from harm.

“We need volunteers who can provide young people with a private room, washing facilities, a hot meal, and, if needed, a listening ear.”

Andy Dacombe, 65, from Piddlehinton near Dorchester,

Best Vocalist; Judges’ Special Award for Excellence; and Overall Winner. With previous winners Harmony Twist, EmmaJane Toop, Amie Knight and Draconem, the level of quality is proven.

If you want to take part, go to the new website at http://liveferndown.co.uk/ to see more details, or check out the Facebook page, and get involved in this ever-growing music community.

EXCLUSIVE

At the White Horse pub having just got back, (straight off the boat and still swaying). The White Horse is ‘the channel swimmers pub’ where channel swimmers are allowed to sign the walls

Ben MD and Janine Pulford, editor/director of mags4dorset present Kirstie with a cheque for £300 for Aspire. Also pictured are Mark and Luke

Inspirational

Verwood swimmer crosses the Channel for charity

When a group of like-minded people from around the country got together to swim the English Channel for charity, they had no idea it would be such a gruelling event.

“We were all swimmers with one goal in mind,” said local team member Kirstie “My initial Foweraker from Verwood, “to raise money target of £1,750 for Aspire, which is a national charity that supports people with spinal cord injuries. has been It focuses on getting them back as much completely independence as possible.

“I work in a specialist unit where we smashed” look after people in the very acute phase following neurological or spinal injury and it’s therefore a cause I’m very passionate about.”

It was a cause that inspired the swimmers to power through an experience they won’t forget in a hurry.

“We set off from Dover at 7.20pm on Saturday 5 August and landed on the beach at Wissant at 11.09 Sunday morning,” said Kirstie. “There were six of us in the team: Sarah Clinton, Debbie Wayman and Dale Porter from Swindon, Janet Myres from The route swum, Rotherham and Owen Mahoney from showing the tidal drift Scarborough and myself. The boat leader, Tessa McLean wasn’t swimming, but supported us on the boat.

“We swam in relay in a set order that we had to stick to, one hour each, with strict rules on how we were to manage changeovers.”

These had to be swift, without even a minute’s delay, Kirstie on her first swim at sunset and the person taking over had

to overtake from behind to ensure that ever inch of the Channel was covered.

“We swam overnight and saw some dolphins, porpoises, fish and lots of jellyfish,” said Kirstie. “I was the only person stung.

“All bar one of us experienced extreme sea sickness, both in and out of the water which was, quite frankly, horrific and all of us doubted that we would make it across.

“We couldn’t eat or drink. We got by on no more than a couple of Jacob’s crackers, ginger nuts and the odd polo, which meant that on our third hours, when we really needed to push it, we were flagging.

“It was far rougher than any of us could have planned for, but it was the last day in our window and had we not gone then, we would almost certainly have had to wait until next year.”

The jubilant, if not rather exhausted team arrived back in

Dover around 3.30pm Sunday having been awake for 32 hours.

Kirstie’s fundraising total currently stands at £4,500, including a donation of £300 from mags4dorset, which she said was “incredibly generous” but there is still more to come in.

“My initial target of £1,750 has been completely smashed,” said Kirstie, “and I think the grand total from the whole team stands at around £13,500.”

Throughout her training with East Dorset Open Water Swimming Club and Beyond the Blue, and during the event, Kirstie has been supported and cheered on by her children, Luke and Tazmin, and her partner Mark Beechey, mags4dorset’s account manager.

Although Kirstie is adamant that she won’t be doing another cross-Channel swim, 15-yearold Tazmin said her mother’s determination to succeed had inspired her to want to swim the Channel, whereas 12-year-old Luke takes his inspiration from Mark and prefers to keep his feet firmly on the ground, and run.

www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Kirstie-Foweraker

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

| 29

Council Matters

Cllr Simon Gibson

verwood NEWS

By Cllr Simon Gibson

The Rustic Fayre - onwards and upwards Barclays Banks closure - a backwards step

T

he 24th Rustic Fayre on Bank Holiday Monday was another excellent event in Verwood. As usual the Rotary Club produced a fun and well-organised day that catered for the whole family.

Events like this take a considerable amount of organisation and I would like to thank everyone involved. The funds raised go to support local groups and charities. I have been grateful for the support of the Rotary Club, through funds raised at the Rustic Fayre, when organising the Community Christmas

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VIEWPOINT September 2017

Lunch and I know how much this support means to other groups, too. The benefit is tremendous.

In other news, I was disappointed to hear that Barclays Bank is set to leave the high street. It is true that many people do use online banking services but in a town with a significant number of older residents, I have my concerns that closing the branch is a backwards step. Your local councillors have written to the bank to express concerns and see what, if anything can be

done to better support local residents.

Finally, councillors are in the process of organising a community clean-up day for the communal areas in and around Bingham Road. We are keen to get the council, the housing association and the community involved.

Ultimately, I would like to roll this out to cover various areas across the town. If you would like to have a community clean-up in your area, do let me know and I would be very happy to help organise it.

Please contact me, Cllr Simon Gibson on cllr.gibson@hotmail.co.uk

verwood NEWS There’s something special about Verwood Girls’ football teams Verwood Girls’ Football Club is a thriving club based at Potterne Park. It is run separately from Verwood Town FC and has seen rapid expansion since it was formed.

The club was set up in summer 2015, as local girls did not have the greatest opportunity to play regular football. Before it formed, there was an average of around 10 girls playing football in Verwood in any given season. They have since increased participation to around 150 girls training every week.

It has also seen them become the only club in the area to be awarded FA CS Development Club status.

The youngsters are aged from 5 to 18 and

develop their skills using specialist outside coaches and dedicated support from the club. In a very short period VGFC has become one of the fastest growing clubs in the south of England and the largest girls’ club in Dorset.

VGFC chairman Darrell Wright has put the tremendous growth down to having “football for all” ingrained throughout the VGFC ethos, and says he is proud that everyone at the club buys into this philosophy.

If you are interested in finding out more, visit the website at www.verwoodgirlsfc.com, the Facebook page Verwood Girls FC or email verwoodgirlsfc@outlook.com.

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

| 31

EXCLUSIVE

Janine Pulford meets rising country star Amie Knight Having followed Amie Knight since her heady days of winning Live:Ferndown in 2016, it was great to catch up with her as she launched her latest EP ‘Take It From Here’ at the Barrington Theatre.

T

he former Ringwood School student has always loved music and took part in talent competitions and shows. She left school in 2013 and her one regret was, “that I didn’t study music to GCSE level. I wish I had.”

Having been at Live:Ferndown, and witnessed her genuine surprise and joy when she heard she’d won, I had to ask her how this achievement had helped with her music career.

“I think Live:Ferndown gave me a major confidence boost musically that I needed,” says Amie. “The Barrington Theatre where the competition was held, is the first place I ever sang my debut single ‘Two Guys’, which gave me faith in my original music. I think I showcased a different side to me that evening that even I didn’t know existed, and I made an impact on a lot of people.”

Like many talented musicians, Amie started young. “I was around six years old. My dad used to play the drums in a country band, and I would attend all the rehearsals and without trying learnt their entire set.

The lead singer suggested I pick a song I liked, and rehearse it with the band, I did, and then sang it at one of their gigs, and from that moment I have never stopped singing.”

A self-taught guitarist, Amie learned to play the guitar properly when she was about 18. “When I was a lot younger I used to take my Dad’s prized guitars off the wall whilst he was at work, and try to learn chords.

He never noticed even though his guitars were covered in fingerprints.”

As for her beautiful voice, Amie says; “When I was around 12 years old, I had a few singing lessons to help me learn about the voice, and understand my own, but I’ve never been trained to sing.”

Her love of country music is rooted in childhood. “I was brought up with it, especially with family on my dad’s side. It has always influenced and inspired me as I think the lyrics and melody are so captivating and honest.

“The first country song that I ever really connected to was ‘When I Get Where I’m Going’

by Brad Paisley, and through this song I found Carrie Underwood, and other artists I now look up to. Country is all I ever sing and listen to.”

When I asked who her favourite artists were, Amie said, “Oh gosh where do I start? I think each artist/band within the genre inspires me in different ways.

“My absolute favourite male country singer is Chris Young, but I also love Brett Young, Keith Urban and Hunter Hayes. I would say my favourite women in country are Carrie Underwood, Danielle Bradbery, Lauren Alaina and Carly Pearce.

“Bands I love are the Rascal Flatts and Lady Antebellum.”

Since the days of Live:Ferndown, Amie has had two top 10 singles in the iTunes country chart and I asked her what that feels like.

“Absolutely incredible! I was refreshing the charts every second and crying with happiness every time it moved up. I never expected to release two singles, and then have them both in the top 10, I exceeded my own expectations and surprised a lot of people. I’m so grateful to everyone that bought them, downloaded them and shared them.”

Her debut EP ‘Take It From Here’ includes six tracks and Amie says; “The first track is my top 10 single ‘Get Away’, it is about being in a toxic situation you can’t get away from, but you’re not sure if you even want to. “‘Hi-gh’ is a play on the words between hi and high, once you’ve listened to the song I’m sure it would make sense. “‘I Can’t Make You Stay’ is my personal favourite song that I have ever written. I cried writing it, and I cry every time I hear it.”

There’s a catchy, upbeat number too: ‘Strangers Tonight’, “It’s written about meeting someone you know after many years of not seeing them, and the feeling of having to get to know them again,” says Amie.

‘Done’ is “the rockiest track on the CD, it is about realising your own worth, and not letting someone walk over you any more and the final track ‘To Quote You’, sums up a lot of phrases people say day-to-day and how sometimes they contradict themselves. I’m a lover of quotes,” she says.

Amie is a busy artist these days and her schedule included a visit to Nashville for the first time in September. She was also due to perform at Ringwood Carnival. Prior to that she supported Sam Coe and the Long Shadows in

I had a few singing lessons to help me learn about the voice, and understand my own, but I’ve never been trained to sing.

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VIEWPOINT September 2017

Leeds, as part of their UK Tour and adds, “I’ve been extremely focused on the release of my debut EP, but looking forward to getting back into gigging around the country.”

It sounds like writing songs and giving her fans new music to listen to is her full time occupation, but there is another giving side to Amie, “Music is my passion, my dream and something I would love to pursue as a career, but I am actually trained in Early Years Children’s Care, Learning and Development, which is very rewarding.”

She hasn’t gone on tour yet, but is eager to fulfill this ambition and is planning on putting a tour together for herself very soon. “I have supported a few bands on their tours, such as the UK band Dexeter,” she adds proudly.

And what happens when things go wrong?

“I played a festival gig this year in gale-force winds and the marquee and the equipment came crashing down on me three times. We had four people holding down each corner of the marquee whilst I carried on singing. We all laughed in the end because we tried so hard to keep going.”

Then of course there are other memorable moments. “Winning Live:Ferndown in 2016, the release of my debut single ‘Two Guys’ and my second single ‘Get Away’ and of course releasing my debut EP. “The first ever copy of my debut single was handed personally by me to the one and only Rick Astley, that’s something I never would have imagined,” she says.

And for those of you who are reading this and aspiring to achieve what Amie Knight has done so far in her young career, here is her advice.

“I used to overthink my performances all the time, and spend hours making a set list, putting songs in order and rehearsing them religiously.

“Of course you need to rehearse, but I’ve learnt to go with the flow more, and enjoy every gig for what it is. Have a plan in mind, but don’t stress so much about it to the point where you can’t enjoy it.

“I also think it’s important to do your best at the time, and be confident in what you did.

At the end of the day, you can’t get the exact moment back again, good or bad.

“I’ve spent many years struggling with anxiety due to illness, but I’ve learnt to accept and find myself which I think is important.

“For those starting out, I definitely think getting a small set together with songs you feel confident playing/singing, and finding different places to play them in helps with confidence, whether it be open mics, a half-hour slot on a festival stage, take it!

“I’ve taken every performance I’ve ever been offered because every audience and venue is different. I think you grow and learn each time.”

Ringwood should be very proud of their rising country star Amie Knight.

Listen out for her in the future and if you would like to buy her new EP, head over to iTunes. For more on Live:Ferndown go to page 28

- advertising feature -

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

REMOVING

the dings FROM weddings!

HINTS AND TIPS FOR A WONDERFUL WEDDING

by Carol Waterkeyn

A

fter the proposal, there are few things as exciting as planning a wedding. Once you have decided on your intended date, you’re going to need to book your venue(s) quickly and make some important decisions. Couples can plan their weddings as much as two years ahead to ensure the venue and time of year they want.

Will your nuptials take place in a church, registry office or other venue?

You’ll also want to choose a location for your wedding breakfast and then an evening party is the norm. Maybe you don’t want to go traditional and yearn for a wedding in the sunshine – somewhere like Las Vegas, Thailand, or Mauritius?

But before you go ahead and book that exotic getaway wedding, you might want to consider whether your guests are willing or able to travel quite that far.

Many couples these days choose a colour or style theme for the wedding – what colours would you like for the flowers and decorations? It looks classy to incorporate the same tones throughout for bridesmaid dresses, the men’s ties, flowers, table decorations and more. Or perhaps you want everyone to turn up in vintage gear?

Perhaps, though, you have another theme in mind.

Will there be an outdoor element?

What about lighting, lanterns and bunting and protection for inclement weather such as a gazebo and water resistant floor? Or umbrellas?

Do you want a small select wedding for just a few, or a grand affair? How much are you willing to budget for without bankrupting yourselves or the family, or is money not a problem?

If you need some help, look out for wedding fairs, which are great for giving you ideas and for getting in contact with potential suppliers.

Here is a selection of those coming up: 23 September 24 September 1 October 1 October 8 October 8 October 22 October 29 October 19 November

– – – – – – – – –

Hampshire Wedding Boot Fair – Locks Heath, Southampton Merley House Wedding Showcase Day Orangery Suite, Merley House, Wimborne Crown Hotel, Blandford Grand Harbour Hotel, Southampton Littledown Centre, Bournemouth The Italian Villa Open Day, Compton Acres, Poole Marsham Court Hotel, Bournemouth Allendale Centre, Wimborne

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If it all seems overwhelming, do you need someone to help you with planning? If you don’t have a lot of time, nor a highly organised friend or family member to help you, you could consider using a wedding planner to help you get the best out of your day and for your particular budget. They are not always a more expensive option and will certainly take some of the stress away.

To add a touch of class, you could enlist the help of a master of ceremonies.

Among Toastmaster Mike Andrews’s duties are greeting the bride and groom at the venue and working with the photographer to ensure smooth running. He will organise the line-up and announce guests, lead the bridal couple to their seats, introduce speeches, facilitate the cake cutting and ensure everyone has drinks for the toasts. At the end, Mike will lead out the wedding party. To ascertain requirements, Mike will meet with the bride and groom prior to the wedding at the venue.

One of the first things you’re going to need to decide is where your big day is to take place. You’ll want to choose the perfect venue for you; whether it’s the full works provided by a hotel or historic house, or something more low-key like a community hall or barn.

The Marsham Court is a cliff-top, Edwardian hotel overlooking the beautiful Bournemouth bay and award-winning beaches. Couples can pledge their love to each other beside the stunning garden wedding pagoda, or choose from one of their impressive banqueting suites. With no detail considered too small, their goal is to make your wedding by the sea a life-long memory for you and your guests.

Don’t miss their Winter Wedding Fayre on Sunday 29 October being held between midday and 3pm. Entry is free. Contact them for more details on 01202 552111.

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

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BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

REMOVING

the dings FROM weddings!

HINTS AND TIPS FOR A WONDERFUL WEDDING Continued from page 33

Merley House, set in the Dorset countryside, has a Wedding Showcase Day on 24 September and another at their beautiful Orangery suite and gardens on 1 October, with fabulous suppliers and free tea, cake and tasty food samples from local caterers and garden games for the children to play in the stunning grounds.

As a complete contrast to a formal wedding, Tolpuddle Martyrs’ Museum provides a wedding for the perfect rustic union! Ceremonies may be held either inside the historic gallery, or in the beautiful traditional pole-barn set in its own secluded paddock with a far-reaching view over rural Dorset. They can provide a fully catered, formal seated event, or why not enjoy the rustic simplicity of your own country barbeque picnic, sitting on hay bales, for perhaps the most spectacular ‘home-made’ wedding to be found in Dorset? Prices start as low as £500 (does not include registrar’s fee). Give them a call to talk through your options on 01305 848237 or e-mail: tolpuddle@tuc. org.uk or see the website at www.tolpuddlemartyrs.org.uk The clubhouse at Crane Valley Golf Club in Verwood makes an ideal wedding reception venue. Based in the heart of picturesque countryside and with a lake, the clubhouse can accommodate up to 125 guests, with smaller parties welcome. The wedding team will meet you in the run-up to the big day to design the perfect reception for you and your partner. From tablecloths and room layout, to serving staff and choice of menu, they take

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VIEWPOINT September 2017

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care of every detail. Rates are competitive and all packages are individually priced based on your requirements – so if you are looking for a Dorset-based wedding reception venue with a difference, get in touch.

Verwood Hub can accommodate up to 200 guests, with multiple rooms available for hire. There’s buffet catering, and also a licensed bar available till late. A disco and DJ can be hired for your party afterwards, and there’s a garden area for taking those important photos. To enquire about what else can be provided for your special day, contact The Hub on 01202 828470.

All brides look beautiful on their wedding day, but if you think you need to lose a few pounds to fit into that beautiful dress, then a weight loss group can help.

Losing weight for one of the most important events of your life can be so challenging, but doesn’t need to be. Join Rhonda at her Verwood Slimming World group and let her show you how you can reach your dream weight without ever going hungry, and receive the very best support and motivation all the way to your big day and beyond.

And for the men, if you are looking to hire or buy a wedding suit or tuxedo for the groom, best man, ushers or father of the bride, Gibb Menswear in Christchurch can help. Specialists in wedding attire, Gibb Menswear offer own-branded ranges in store. They can also help with those lastminute occasions. They pride themselves on the excellent customer service they offer, and competitive prices. You can see them at the Pavilion Wedding Fair, Bournemouth from 16-17 September.

Bentley Wedding Cars provide a stunning, luxurious Bentley limousine in an eye-catching kingfisher blue to travel in style to your wedding. It’s ‘something blue, something borrowed and something new’.

The car has sumptuous leather seating and will accommodate the largest of wedding dresses. Also available is the Tesla Gullwing, 100% electric wedding car of the future. Added to this is personal service from Jim, the chauffeur/owner, for whom

© Tom Scrase nothing is too much trouble. It’s a friendly and courteous service. For availability or more details, contact Jim on 01202 822115 or visit www.bentleyweddingcar.org.uk.

There will probably be a lot of hungry guests after your ceremony, and you will need to feed them. If you are not using the caterers supplied with the venue, Neals & Son butchers arrange hog roasts for weddings. Many people love a hog roast and it’s an easy way to cater for a lot of people. Using quality free-range meats, there’s a choice of pork or lamb for your roast and it comes with sauces, rolls and extra trimmings as well as a professional service by one of the skilled chefs. Neals & Son will set everything up beforehand for you and discreetly clear away after the food has been served. Alternatively, they can supply everything you need for you to serve yourselves. Give them a call for more details on 01202 429366/mobile 07542 008926.

Don’t forget to supply an alternative for any vegetarians though.

I think most people anticipate a cakecutting ceremony and delicious piece of cake after the main course.

For a very special cake, Love-a-Cake is a family business that specialises in unique and personal cakes made for weddings and other occasions. Each cake is designed for you individually, to help make your dream a reality. They can also make cupcakes and prepare buffets to your own specification to make your occasion extra special. All cakes are baked using locally sourced eggs, resulting in a delicious and beautiful bake.

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Planning your big day can feel like a military operation. There are so many things to think about. You can use our handy checklist to get you started: Wedding venue Reception venue Evening venue Choice of best man and bridesmaids/matron of honour Cars and other transport Hiring of gazebos, chairs, other equipment Entertainment/music Catering Wedding cake and cake boxes Drinks for your guests Dresses for bride, bridesmaids, veil – or no veil, headpiece, hats, accessories Outfits for the groom, best man, father of the bride, pageboys, ushers Hair, nails and beauty treatments Photography and video recording Flowers for bride, bridesmaid, groom and ushers Floral arrangements Wedding favours Decorations for your venue Presents for bridesmaids, best man Printing – invitations, order of service or hymn sheets Seating plan

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

Bride re-enacts wedding at beloved grandfather’s care home

W

hen Vicky Ward’s grandfather wasn’t well enough to attend her wedding, she took her groom, her dress and even her cake to his care home.

Vicky’s grandfather John Burke is a resident at Colten Care’s Fernhill nursing home near Bournemouth. Staff at Fernhill helped Vicky create a beautiful, garden wedding complete with flowers and decorations from her original nuptials in Oxford. Guests from the first wedding also attended.

Fernhill activity organiser Karen Grant A’Court helped organise the day. She said, “We know how devoted Vicky is to her granddad and to see John’s face light up upon seeing his granddaughter in her wedding dress was simply wonderful.”

John, dressed in a suit and a pink tie, joined his wife Audrey and the rest of the family for the wedding celebration in the Hazel Garden. He later enjoyed

a toast of Prosecco and a slice of wedding cake.

Fernhill residents and their families also joined in the celebrations and Vicky later visited the home’s Maple and Cedar Lounges

with her husband Lawrence to show off her wedding dress.

Karen added, “It was an emotional but very happy day. We are absolutely delighted to have helped Vicky and Lawrence celebrate their very special day with John.”

Present list or not?

Hen party and Stag party venues and arrangements Honeymoon Any special arrangements needed for disabled guests, special dietary arrangements, arrangements for children/babies etc?

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

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around & ABOUT

what’s on

this month 16 September

Ringwood Carnival with events in the town and carnival processions at 2pm and 7.15pm from Parkside through to High Street, Market Square, Meeting House Lane and Mansfield Road. Fun fair and entertainment on Carver’s Field.

16 September 1.30-4pm

Verwood Horticultural Society autumn show, Verwood Memorial Hall. Entry 50p, refreshments available. 01202 814376

16 & 17 September 10.45am-5pm

Autumn Steam Gala at Moors Valley Railway, Country Park, Ashley Heath, Nr Ringwood.

Return train fares £3.85 adult, £2.55 child. Details 01425 471415

17 September 3pm-5pm

Free Brass Band concert by the Verwood Town Band. On the Verwood Rec if weather is nice (take your deckchairs) or if not, in Verwood Memorial Hall.

Drinks, cakes and homemade cream teas available. Location: Ringwood Road, Verwood, BH31 7AA.

19 September 7.30pm

Bournemouth Electronic Organ Society presents a concert of popular music by Janet Dowsett at Queen Elizabeth’s School, Wimborne. Visitors welcome. £5 payable at door.

Details: 01202 895254.

21 September 2pm

Ringwood U3A at Greyfriars Community Centre, Ringwood.

Speaker: Gale Gould, New Forest Association on their 150year history and anniversary celebration. Visitors welcome, more information from www. ringwoodu3a.org.uk

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

21 September 7.30-9.30pm

A talk with photographs on the wildlife of Kingston Lacy through the ages – flora and fauna past and present by David Smith. Christchurch Baptist Church Hall, Bargates, (corner of Beaconsfield Rd), Christchurch BH23 1QT. Bournemouth & Christchurch Group of Dorset Wildlife Trust.

22 September 7.30pm

Bourne2Sing male voice choir concert at Shelley Theatre, Beechwood Avenue, Bournemouth BH5 1LX. Tickets £7 and funds raised will be in aid of the Shelley Theatre Restoration Fund. More info from the choir’s website www.bourne2singchoir.uk or Shelley Theatre website www. shelleytheatre.co.uk

22 September 8pm 22 September – 12 October 10am-5pm Paint, Texture and Light exhibition at the Hayloft Gallery, 14 Wick Lane, Christchurch BH23 1HX with paintings, textiles, jewellery and hats by Susan Knights, Linda Patterson, Jeannette Law, Brenda Weeks and Pip Muddell. Admission free. Tel 01202 481099

Stand Up comedy show at the Hub, Verwood with Tanyalee Davis, Craig Murray, David Arnold and Adrienne Coles.

Tickets £10 in advance, £15 on the night. 01202 828740

23 September 10am-5pm Mini Steam and Vintage Day at Wimborne Model Town. For more information call 01202 881924

23 September 10am-4pm 22 September 7pm

Fordingbridge Museum presents “Knitting for Victory”.

Author and speaker Joyce Meader will talk about the role of knitting in wartime at Avonway Community Centre, Fordingbridge. Tickets, available from Fordingbridge bookshop, £8 - includes light refreshments. Bar available.

22 September 7 for 7.30pm

Fashion Show to celebrate Wimborne in Bloom’s 25th anniversary at M&Co, Crown Mead, Wimborne. Tickets £6 each include light refreshments and are available from M & Co, or telephone 01202 888703.

The models will be wearing M&Co’s new Autumn and Winter collection, with special discounts for items purchased on the evening.

VIEWPOINT September 2017

The Dorset Do, Ringwood Woodcarving Club’s hobbies and craft show.

Demonstrations include woodcarving, woodturning, stick making, beekeeping and much more. Food and drinks available. Raffle. St Leonards Village Hall, Braeside Road, St Leonards. Entry £5. BH24 2PH. www.dorset-do.co.uk

23-24 September

Grandma’s Attic Antiques and Collectors Fair at the Pavilion Bournemouth. Details www. grandmasatticfairs.co.uk or call 01202 779564

27 September 7.30pm

Verwood Keyboard Society concert with Tony Stace on Yahama HX1 keyboard in the Hub theatre. Tickets £10 on the door. Further information from Janetta, 01202 822936 or Organfax website

30 September 12noon – 4.30pm

Bournemouth Orchid Society autumn fair and show including mini talks and orchid clinic at Allendale Centre, Wimborne BH21 1AS. Entrance £3.

Children free with paying adult. Details: Chris Broomfield on 07712 479056 or show@ bournemouthorchidsociety. co.uk

30 September 10am-12pm

Musical coffee morning by the Verwood Concert Brass Training Band. £2 admission includes a cuppa and biscuit.

Venue: Verwood Memorial Hall, Ringwood Road, Verwood, BH31 7AA.

2 October 7pm

Author talk with John Pilkington at Ringwood Library, Christchurch Road BH24 1DW. £6. For details 01425 474255

4 October 12 noon

Ferndown Probus Club lunch and talk on Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra at Dudsbury Golf Club. New members welcome. More details from the secretary 01202 875757

4 October 7pm

The Hoosiers appearing at the Old Fire Station, Bournemouth with their 10th anniversary tour. Tickets £14.10 from Ticketmaster at www1. ticketmaster.co.uk

5 October 2-4pm

Cats Protection talk – ‘All About Cats’ at Fordingbridge Library. Tickets cost £2.50, which includes a donation to the charity.

5 October 7.30pm

Verwood Horticultural Society meeting at Memorial Hall.

Planting and Growing Bulbs - Tim Woodland. Call 01202 814376 for more detaiils

7 October 7.30pm-10pm Proms Concert by the bands of Verwood Concert Brass. A selection of music including a Proms feature. Tickets £10 (under 19s £6) from The Hub, Verwood 01202 828740.

11,18 & 25 October 2-5pm

Open garden for the National Gardens Scheme at Edmondsham House, 9 miles NE of Wimborne on Wednesday afternoons. Admission £2.50, 50p for children. Tea, coffee and cake available to buy between 3.30-4pm.

12 October 7.15pm

Wimborne Horticultural Society Harvest meeting with talk by Mr M Tuck on walking sticks. Take a plate of food for a shared supper. Held at the Minster Room at the Community Learning & Resource Centre, 41-44 King Street, Wimborne.

Admission - members £1 and non-members £3.

13 October 10.30am-1pm Safety awareness course for mobility scooter users or those thinking of purchasing a mobility scooter in Dorset.

Sessions cost £10. Tea and coffee will be provided.

Places limited so book by emailing helen@safewise. org or by calling SafeWise on 01202 591330.

14 October evening

The United Church at Ferndown hosting the Bournemouth Community Church Choir in their annual gospel evening, followed by a free supper. More details from 01202 871440 or email admin@unitedchurchferndown. org.uk

around & ABOUT

It’s a Life of Riley!

Ferndown Drama’s first play of their 52nd season is Life of Riley, by Alan Ayckbourn and directed by Chaz Davenport.

With a few months of his life remaining, George Riley’s closest friends remember with love, nostalgia or occasional bursts of fury, how deeply he has affected all their lives. George though, is plotting one last final farewell, which threatens to upset all of their futures.

What exactly is the eccentric maverick Riley playing at? This is a warm and funny production.

Cast members are: Kristy Dixon, Peter Gutteridge, Niall Harris, Kimberley Scott, Michael Tong and Nikki Wilson.

Life of Riley will be performed at the Barrington Theatre, Ferndown Centre from Wednesday 25 – Saturday 28 October, with performances starting at 7.45pm. Tickets are £8.50, available by emailing: info@ferndowndrama.org, ringing 01202 894858 or on the door.

Steam’s Up at Wimborne Model Town

There’s something for all the family on 23 September at Wimborne Model Town’s Mini Steam and Vintage Day. With mini steam rides around the miniature buildings, there will be a 1950s motorbike on show and a line-up of vintage vehicles to enjoy.

Also on display will be nostalgic railway posters and Bayko model-building sets from the pre-Lego era.

The Land Girls will be supplying the musical entertainment with the tearoom offering breakfast, lunch and tea on vintage china.

COMPETITIONS- Viewpoint July The winner of the two tickets to see Beatles With Wings at the Barrington Theatre was Margaret Holden of West Moors. The answer was Liverpool.

New Ukulele Group in Ferndown

A Ukulele group for mature people (retired) has started in Ferndown.

No previous musical experience is necessary.

The group is led by retired music teacher, Alistair Goudie and there are weekly sessions at the Beacon Centre, St Mary’s Church, Ferndown on Thursdays between 2pm and 3pm. There is a charge of £20 for each four-week session to cover costs.

For further information, contact Pam Roberts on 01202 896224 or email pamroberts203@btinternet.com Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

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around & ABOUT

Above: David Maughan and Geoff Roper breed lowline cattle near Blandford and won 1st Bull, 1st Senior Cow, 1st Junior Cow, 1st Yearling Heifer, 1st Home Bred pairs, 2nd Bull, Champion Lowline (cup on left), Reserve Champion and Most Points of the Day Exhibitor (cup right)

Clashof the giants

By Janine Pulford

With the draw of two huge events over the weekend of 2-3 September and only one promised day of sunshine, it was decision time. Should we go to Bournemouth Air Festival or Dorset County Show: near or far, aeroplanes vs animals, Red Arrows vs rabbits? We decided on the Dorset County Show and what a treat it was. After manic terrier racing, we headed straight to the rabbit tent, from there the hens and ducks, homecraft and on to the fabulous display of horticultural exhibits. The rings were busy with horses and livestock, all groomed to perfection. The showground was well laid out, food and facilities were plentiful and if you had the energy to shop, you could buy everything from live animals to a pair of earrings. Established in 1840 and billed as the agricultural event of the year, it was a thoroughly good day out in the countryside organised by Dorchester Agricultural Society.

Pudsey Bear is on his way to Ferndown

I

n aid of the BBC Children in Need appeal and in the presence of Pudsey Bear, a stage show, crammed with entertainment will be held at the Barrington Theatre in November.

Organised by Warren Brown, the variety show has a string of acts already confirmed.

These include children singing ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’, Paul Michael singing ‘Nessun Dorma’, Del Satterthwaite, Catherine Gray with her rendition of ‘I will Always Love You’, Phoenix Juniors, Sally Ager, Polz Apart, Lily Meads, Prayer Choir,

Poppy petals launch

F

Guinea pig judge Jim McCormick

or the first time last year, Dorset’s Poppy Appeal was launched at the Barrington.

Hundreds of poppy petals were fired from small cannons fixed to the roof of the theatre and fluttered symbolically to the ground during a two-minutes silence.

The launch, held outside the theatre, followed a parade in Penny’s Walk led by the Bournemouth Youth Marching Band.

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VIEWPOINT September 2017

Damian Jay, Aimee Irish Dance, Dave Fitzgerald, Phoenix Comedy, the Wessex Majorettes and Jenny Oag. All the performers will be on stage on Friday 24 November in Ferndown raising money for Children in Need.

Our picture is from last year’s show held at the Hub in Verwood and gives you a flavour of what to expect.

The last variety show organised by Warren at the Barrington was a sell out success, so book early to avoid disappointment.

Tickets are available from the Barrington box office on 01202 894858.

Gerry Nunn, chairman of Christchurch Royal British Legion officially opened the Dorset appeal and veteran Mike Arnold MBE sold the first poppy to the Mayor of Ferndown.

The event was such a huge success, it will be held again this year on Saturday, 28 October.

Everyone is welcome and best-dressed poppies will again be able to wow the judges. Last year’s winner Tilly Green, aged 6 from Ferndown is pictured here.

Lifting the lid on Fray Bentos

ible ’s B s e n ke t Mis nd jac a

For more than 60 hours the crew of tank Fray Bentos, which was stuck in No-man’s-land, fought off German machine-gun fire, snipers, grenades, heavy artillery and dynamite.

An enemy soldier even climbed on top and dropped a grenade inside but one of the plucky Brits threw it back before it exploded. During the three days and two nights, even the Allies were shelling the Mark IV tank so it wouldn’t end up in enemy hands.

Fray Bentos advanced during the Third Battle of Ypres, Passchendaele, on 22 August 1917, but was soon on its side in a bomb crater, stranded. Inside were nine men who would become the most decorated tank crew of the war.

Captain Donald Richardson and 2nd Lt George Hill received the Military Cross, Sgt Robert Missen and Gunner William

Cartoon image of the time

Morrey were awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal and Gunners Ernest Hayton, Frederick Arthurs, Percy Budd and James Binley received the Military Medal.

Lance Corporal Ernest Braedy was the only one to die, being shot as he got out to try and access the unditching gear. Only Gunner James Binley was not injured physically, but was left ‘shocked’.

The tank’s main guns were rendered mostly useless because of the angles at which they were pointing so the men used their personal weapons to repel wave after wave of attack.

Now the museum in Bovington has a new display telling the story and focusing on Robert Missen, many of whose effects they have. After the

A similar tank to Fray Bentos

action Missen wrote a brief, matter-of-fact account of it, “We got into a very deep soft place and went in sideways and just at that moment Mr Hill fell back off his seat, hit. Capt Richardson got on the seat to relieve him, but he was foul of the controls and before the driver could do anything she was right in and ditched. Budd and Morrey were hit at the same time. Budd was unconscious for about 2 hrs. Mr Hill hit in head and neck, Morrey arm and leg.”

Apparently Missen got out of the right sponson door to put on one side of the unditching gear but heard bullets hitting the tank and saw some German soldiers about 30 yards off firing at him. He got in again. He saw Braedy had got out of the other side to help him and Braedy was shot and fell under the side of the tank that was sinking. Arthurs said he was dead. They kept on firing and killed several Germans close to the tank.

They expected the infantry to appear at any time.

Missen concluded, “Captain Richardson told me to go back and warn the infantry not to shoot us as we should sooner or later have to clear out of the tank. We were all getting stiff from wounds. I got out of the right sponson door and crawled back to the infantry.”

One by one the crew followed, even carrying with them the Lewis guns so they didn’t fall into enemy hands. Capt Richardson had named his tank Fray Bentos Missen’s Medals because before the war he was a grocer in Nottingham and had the licence for the famous meat products. The tank crew Fray Bentos at Passchendaele were also likened to the meat in a Fray Bentos tin.

David Willey, curator of the Tank Museum, said, “Many amazing stories of stoicism and bravery have emerged with the First World War anniversaries, but you still cannot help but be taken aback by the tale of

Sgt Robert Missen

Last month, on the anniversary of the Third Battle of Ypres, Passchendaele of 22 August 1917, the Tank Museum in Dorset commemorated a very special tank and its crew. The story of one of the most astonishing acts of survival during the First World War is being told at the museum to mark the centenary of the action.

Fray Bentos. Eight men, stuck in tank for three days and nights in No-man’s-land, being continually shot at with bullets and hot metal flying around inside.

“Temperatures reached 30°C (86F) and dropped down to freezing at night. The men were forced to drink water from the radiator to say alive. To lose just one man during this siege was quite remarkable; their heroism and calmness under sustained attack was astonishing, especially when you consider how many serious injuries there were.

“We have been left a number of Missen’s personal effects including the Bible he had with him, his uniform, medals, identity tag and cigarette case. And here at the museum, we have an example of the tank that these men were in, so it is possible to see how cramped and intimate the space was, in which the drama took place.”

Missen had joined the Loyal North Lancashire Regiment in 1909 then moved to the Heavy Branch Machine Gun Corps and Tank Corps during the war. He served in the Royal Tank Corps until 1936.

The keen sportsman retired on his birthday by putting on a bowler hat and saying, “Now show me civil life.”

Ernest Braedy’s body was never found and Percy Budd was killed a year later aged 22. Richardson later fought at the Battle of Cambrai, in a tank named Fray Bentos II. That tank was put out of action and captured by the Germans, who took it to Berlin, where it was put on display.

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

| 39

motoring NEWS HAPPY 100TH BIRTHDAY TO THE TRANSIT You’ve heard of the Ford Model T, but how about the Model TT? Though less well-known, it had a big impact as the forerunner to the modern-day van and pickup, including today’s Transit.

First launched 100 years ago, in 1917, the Model TT was Ford’s first purpose-built one-tonne van. Owners could customise the chassis with a cargo bed to transport everything from letters to fuel – just as they can today in the 2017 Ford Transit Custom. The Model TT was first launched in the US, and was later built at Ford’s factory in Manchester.

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VIEWPOINT September 2017

The Model TT van was longer and stronger than the Model T car, with a cab that could seat one driver and one passenger.

The engine was started using a cranking handle. For a smoother ride, customers could choose modern air-filled rear tyres instead of solid rubber.

“It is amazing that while in some ways today’s vans are a

million miles from the Model TT in how they have come on, they fundamentally do the same job as they were designed to do 100 years ago – providing a flexible means of keeping businesses on the move,” commented Hans Schep, general manager, commercial vehicles, Ford of Europe.

In 1965, Ford started to manufacture Transit bodies near Southampton in a former Spitfire parts factory. The last Southampton-made Ford Transit body rolled off the production line in 2013, when manufacture was moved to Turkey.

A hundred years after the first model TT, Ford now offers the bestselling commercial vehicle range in Britain and Europe, with four commercial vehicles now carrying the iconic Transit nameplate – Transit, Transit Custom, Transit Connect and Transit Courier – as well as the Ford Ranger pickup.

In the UK, Ford has stayed the market leader in the commercial vehicle sector for 51 years – ever since the Ford Transit was introduced in 1965. In 2016, Ford recorded its highest-ever year of commercial vehicle sales with 118,000 units.

Transit sales passed the first million milestone in 1976, rapidly

passing the next in 1985, and if now lined up end-to-end, the vehicles would circumnavigate the globe. On average, customers have bought a new Transit every 180 seconds during its lifetime.

Later this year Ford is launching 20 new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) Transit Custom vans – that reduce local emissions by running solely on electric power for the majority of inner-city trips – on a 12-month trial in and around London.

Among those taking part in the trial are the Metropolitan Police and British Gas. The Transit Custom PHEV van is planned for commercial introduction in 2019, part of Ford’s $4.5 billion investment into electrified vehicles by 2020.

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VIEWPOINT September 2017

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RUSTIC PIMM’S TENT IS sell-out SUCCESS Irving and Sons Estate Agency had a terrific time at the Rustic Fayre over the August Bank Holiday serving Pimm’s in the blazing sunshine and raising almost £1,000 for local causes.

Nolan Irving said, “It was our first year in charge of the Pimm’s tent, but like everything we do at Irving and Sons, we make sure we do the job properly.

“Our entire team turned out to serve our community and we took close to £1,000 on behalf of the Verwood Rotary Club. It was lovely to see so many clients past and present supporting this year’s Rustic Fayre.”

Demand was so high for the Pimm’s summer coolers that the inevitable happened and Nolan said, “We sold out of Pimm’s, lemonade and fruit twice; thankfully Morrisons was open.

“It was great for business to be involved again in the Rustic Fayre especially as Phil Irving helped establish the event in its early beginnings when Verwood was much smaller.”

Irving and Sons couldn’t have wished for better weather for their first time at the Pimm’s tent, and there was excitement to follow at the end of the day.

“An added bonus for our team was coming second in the duck race,” said Nolan.

Money raised at the Verwood Rotary Rustic Fayre will be presented to local organisations and charitable causes later in the year.

Hannah and Nolan Irving (Right)

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VIEWPOINT September 2017

Phil Irving (Right)

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Birds, bees, butterflies and bugs More than 140 species of birds, bees, butterflies and bugs were recorded at the recent Knoll Gardens Foundation annual Garden Wildlife Survey.

Female Emperor dragonfly egg laying in Knoll Gardens’ Dragon Pond, © Amanda Walker

black splotches, does not eat healthy plants at all, instead feeding on rotting matter and a diet of smaller slugs. Whilst thought to be common, there is little national data relating to this long-lived slug, which can grow to up to 16cm in length.

Peter Gear, chairman of the Knoll Gardens Foundation said, “Our annual Garden Wildlife Survey acts as a rather special kind of annual health check and it is gratifying to know that we have a thriving wildlife community in the garden – a real endorsement of Knoll’s renowned naturalistic gardening style.

“On behalf of all Knoll Gardens Foundation trustees I would like to thank all the experts and volunteers who turned out despite appalling weather to help make our annual Garden Wildlife Survey such a success. Our own volunteers were joined by Mark Spencer, president of Bournemouth Natural Science Society, Stuart Roberts, chair of BWARS, the RSPB and Dorset Wildlife Trust, whose team not only helped to find a huge number of species but also to identify all the finds and create our full species list.”

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

Mitre saw electric 210mm, never used, cost £80, selling £50. West Moors. 01202 873722 Computer desk, wood effect with sliding shelf etc. w 87cm x d 50cm x h 78cm, as new £15. Ringwood.

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Oval table from M&S Home range, ideal for shabby chic. 70 ins extends to 91 ins, vgc £30. Two G-Plan dining chairs from 1960s, £25 the pair. Ferndown. 01202 873411

Brand new king size duvet cover M&S pale pink, £20, Paperchase photo album in cafes design, medium. £10. Verwood. 01202 826153 Green leather-topped dark mahogany twin pedestal desk, 120 x 60cm with two cupboards and two drawers and access for computer cabling. Exc condition. £120.

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Box trailer 4ft 6in x 3ft 6, steel frame, timber sides and floor, with lights, £95. Three wheels with tyres size 145/80 R10, £5 the lot. Ferndown.

01202 873411 Garmin car Sat Nav, only used twice. Cost over £100, selling for £50 ovno, complete with full instructions, case, screen mount etc. Broadstone.

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VIEWPOINT September 2017

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The Marmalade Hoverfly (Episyrphus balteatus) feeds on nectar, © N Hoar

The annual survey is part of an ongoing programme of research to explore the relationship between garden plants and the wildlife that lives on and around them. The survey was undertaken by a team of wildlife experts supported by interested volunteers to help with identification.

With finds ranging from the great spotted woodpecker to the lesser water boatman, the team surveyed ponds, trees, log piles and Knoll’s many native and exotic plants to achieve the grand total of 146 species, up slightly from the 2016 survey results, despite very poor weather on the day.

The survey’s positive results are an endorsement of Knoll’s naturalistic gardening style, designed to be beneficial to wildlife as well as creating beautiful outdoor spaces.

Neil Lucas, Knoll’s owner and a trustee of the Knoll Gardens Foundation said, “Our gardening style here at Knoll allows the natural food chain to flourish. Beneficial species tend to eat up those that are not the gardener’s friend as soon as they start to become overabundant and damage the garden, doing a lot of the work for us and removing the need for pesticides.”

The marmalade hoverfly (Episyrphus balteatus) is one of the many beneficial species found during this year’s survey. This common, orange and black-banded hoverfly is frequently thought of as a pest but its larvae do wonderful work gobbling up aphids.

The leopard slug (Limax maximus) is another much maligned gardener’s friend found during this year’s survey. Unlike its smaller, black relatives, the leopard slug, with its distinct brown and

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