The Purbeck Gazette - Issue 171

Swanage

Swanage and the Philippines. Pg 30-31

Fracking - An Expert Explains. Pg 52

Home Improvement. Pg 35-43

Editor’s note...

Welcome to the April edition of YOUR Gazette! Summer is finally on its way! Honestly! The long, drawn-out winter is finally behind us, and we have blue skies and sunshine on the horizon.

April is a favourite edition - most of you know why! We have lots of editorial features this month, including a deeply moving write-up from Summer Smith, recounting her recent trip to the typhoonhit Philippines to bring aid provided locally to schools which had been affected by the disaster.

What with the proposed wind farm, fracking and more on the books for Purbeck, we also bring you news about an experimental nuclear reactor due to be built in Swanage soon.

To help those who are confused by all the scaremongering that accompanies any conversation about fracking, we also have an article by a world-leader on the subject, Chris Faulkner, sorting fact from fiction for you.

We also follow the debate on the problems high resolution cameras and camcorders can bring, as we follow the ‘Quadcopter’ story in our letters pages. The image shot to show the proposed nuclear reactor for the Gazette (available online) is also high resolution. How does an expectation of privacy fit in with ‘modern world technology’? A discussion for next month’s letters pages.......!!

20,000 copies (15,000

7pm

9.30am

Joy Lamb, Sales & Accounts Executive, David Hollister, Columnist, John Garner, Columnist, Charlie Hobbs, Columnist. Kim Steeden, Spotlight Diary Editor, David Bishop.

VOLUNTEERS: A massive thanks to our volunteers, whose help is invaluable each month with proof reading. They are the very professional: Gerry Norris and David Holman. Thank you both so very much!

Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in this magazine, but the Editor is unable to accept responsibility for any omissions or errors that may occur. The inclusion of any article or advertisement does not constitute any form of accreditation or approval by the Editor. No part, written or visual, of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the Editor.

The clue is in the heading above - these are our reader’s letters. They are NOT articles, they are letters. By you. Our readers. They are not our letters, they are yours - your letters. Simple!

Please send all letters to ed@purbeckgazette.co.uk with ‘letter to the editor’ in the email subject line. Please do not exceed 350 words. If handwritten, please ensure it is short and legible.

PLEASE DO NOT DUPLICATE LETTERS TO OTHER PUBLICATIONSWE DO NOT PRINT MULTI-PUBLICATION LETTERS.

MAY 2014 deadline - 12 noon 10th APRIL

Energy - Follow The Money!

Dear Editor,

The discussions about shale gas fracking are a waste of time. Substantial amounts of evidence document the side effects of hydraulic fracking. Main causes of concern include: Methane contamination of ground water, toxic chemicals used in the process and the horrific effects on health, earthquakes and falling property prices in affected areas. Why is the existing technology of ‘Free Energy’ never mentioned?

Free Energy Devices, independent of the earth’s grid have been operational, yet suppressed for over a hundred years. 5000 patents for these devices have also been suppressed for this length of time, whereas, if made available would eradicate the excuse for fracking, the debatable wind power generators, and also ever increasing electricity, oil and gas energy bills. See free-energy-info.co.uk and theorionproject.org/en/vision

Wilhelm Reich, Royal Rife and Nicola Tesla were geniuses of our time trying to make a difference for the good of humanity. Tesla invented an Energy Generator able to supply homes and businesses with unlimited energy. The funding however was destroyed due to political and vested interests by the power elite knowing the distribution of freely available energy could not be metered for profit as oil is a major benefactor globally for the economic system!

Abundant free energy lies in the Quantum Vacuum‘Zero Point Field’ which should be available for ALL humanity, and not just for the ‘powerful few’. These inventions were devices that gave more output of energy than it actually took in, in order to generate themselves. What happened to those cars that could run on water? See waterfuelcell.org

Why are we paying more taxes on fossil fuel and carbon emissions due to the allegedly ‘global warming’ issue? Through propaganda are we being lied to? And if so, the concept of reducing carbon emissions must be fraudulent. Why isn’t the Green Party looking at the availability of free energy? Don’t they know about it? They should do!

By following ‘The Money’ it has become clear that those in power have no regard for our land or its people. If or when free energy devices are released, it would cost just pennies to run independently of the earth’s grid without using any earth’s resources.

For the sake of future generations to come it would empower a new civilization without want, poverty or environmental damage instead of planeticide. Let us put pressure on the governments to release the suppressed free energy patents.

Sincerely, Heather Cox, Swanage, by email

Adverse Impact On Tourism

Dear Editor,

Say No to Swanage becoming the Gateway to the Jurassic Wind Farm.

Do sufficient numbers of the good people of the Isle of Purbeck realize what is about to happen to our beautiful coast? Do we care enough to make a major stand against the Navitus Bay proposals? There is a certain degree of inevitability that the proposals will come to fruition given the combined strength and authority of DECC, the Crown Estate and the energy giant EDF.

We have little time to act as the momentum behind the project is rising. So, the latest revisions to the scheme have slightly increased the distance of the nearest turbines from the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Isle of Wight coastlines. The closer distance of the turbines from the “jewel in the crown” – the Jurassic Coast of Purbeck has not been increased. Maybe this is because the Bournemouth respondents shout louder and are larger in number.

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Leaving aside the raft of environmental and natural heritage concerns already clearly identified by opponents to the project, we should be aware of the potential impact on local businesses and jobs in the tourist sector and inevitably on the local economy as a whole. It is clear from official statistics that Bournemouth has twenty times more residents than Swanage but only thirteen times the number of tourism-related jobs. These factors are even more contrasted in Poole where, at fifteen times the size of Swanage the tourism jobs are just eight times those of Swanage.

In considering these differences within the areas affected by the proposals, it is extremely concerning to see the promoter’s own forecasts for reduced return and shorter duration visits. These forecasts imply a regional net reduction of around 11% but do not reveal any forecasts for the particularly sensitive areas of the coast such as Durlston. Equally concerning is the fact that the promoters reveal in their tourism business surveys that the project is seen to have a high adverse impact on 8% of businesses on the Isle of Wight, 16% of businesses in Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch and 47% in Swanage.

As an example, diving trips from Swanage would be curtailed during the four year construction period, due to piling noise. It isn’t just the diving operations that would suffer, but also all the cafes, shops and B&Bs that currently benefit from these tourists.

The promoters are about to lodge their formal application and then the Planning Inspectorate will judge the matter after hearing evidence. The Secretary of State at DECC, not the Queen, will then take the final decision. Just think of the costs and the possible consequences. We should not underestimate the power and influence of EDF given the Government’s reliance on them to deliver the Hinckley Point nuclear project. I for one will lobby the Secretary of State now and engage in the examination process to help present a convincing case against the Navitus Bay project to the Inspectorate.

Yours sincerely, Howard Potter, Swanage

Dear Editor,

Why not rename Swanage and Durlston ‘Navitania’?

After all, NBDL, a foreign-owned consortium hungry for British subsidy, is attempting to rebrand, in its own image, the whole of the entrance to the Solent as ‘Navitus Bay’ so as to incorporate Durlston Bay, Swanage Bay, Studland Bay, Poole Bay, Christchurch Bay and over the water on the Isle of Wight, Colwell Bay, Totland Bay, Alum Bay, Compton Bay – I could go on …

And who needs Durlston Country Park, when we can have Navitus Bay Wind Park instead?

Then hordes of tourists will flock to see possibly the largest offshore wind farm in the world, doing its bit to save the Planet.

Except that all it will succeed in doing is to clog up our waters, destroy our seascape, and, in fact, drive tourists away. Not to mention rip up parts of the seafloor and cause untold damage to wildlife, without even reducing carbon emissions.

No, Swanage and Durlston are not Poole and Bournemouth’s back yard for servicing the Grid with unreliable, overpriced electricity, while sacrificing our identity as gateway to the Jurassic Coast.

If this wind-driven folly is allowed to go ahead, the aspirations of the whole area will be crushed not just by a huge white elephant, but by a giant white dinosaur.

Richard Tasker, Swanage, by email

Crown Estates - The Facts

Dear Gazette,

Contrary to the views expressed by Mr Hollister, Mr Owen and Mr Hale, the Monarch (‘Mrs Queen’) receives not a penny from the Crown

Estates. We do.

Some two hundred and fifty years ago the monarchy surrendered all lands and property to the Exchequer (bar two private dwellings and a relatively small rural estate). In return the monarchy was funded to carry out certain duties for the people, i.e. the Civil Lists Act. In 1961 the management of this land and property was formalised under the Crown Estates Act. The Crown Estates, a semi-autonomous body is responsible to the Government, and to which all profits are submitted.

So it appears that the ‘grotesque amounts of money’ made by offshore wind farms may well reduce the national debt. You think? More interesting is that while opposition to the Navitus project seeks support through one government department, another is depending on approval so as to maximise its income.

I doubt that the Queen has ever been recorded ‘pleading poverty’. All centrally funded organizations apply for an annual budget. Nor does the Monarch personally own one sixth of the Earth’s surface.

The ‘crown’ however, in the form of the Government of the UK certainly does have control over our coastal regions.

P Sorrell, by email

Proposal Will Blight Area

Dear Editor,

As a frequent visitor to Purbeck, born in Swanage, and a friend of Durlston, I am horrified at the extreme visual impact the Navitus Bay Windpark would have on this precious stretch of coast.

This industrial–scale development would be objectionable in any situation so close to land and is particularly unacceptable in this heavily-visited area with two protective landscape designations:

Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

World Heritage Site, the only one in England based on natural features I quote from the National Association for Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) website: “The coastal stretch of the (Dorset) AONB is a highly popular tourist area and major resorts such as Weymouth and Swanage attract two million visitors a year. The 956 km South West Coast Path starts at Poole Harbour and the coast’s extensive footpath network is well-used by residents and visitors”.

How can this proposal avoid impacting on the tourism of the whole area?

Did the 86% of summer season visitors cited on page 26 of NBDL’s Phase 4 Consultation Document (86% of how many? And where were they at the time?) that were surveyed (p36) fully understand the SCALE of the proposed development before ticking a box?

Employment opportunities provided by the proposal (short term construction “if suitably qualified” and perhaps maintenance?) will hardly compensate for loss of revenue from reduced tourism.

Further regulation and protection of AONBs was added by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, and the Government has recently, in the National Planning Policy Framework (2012), stated that AONBs and national parks have equal status when it comes to planning consent and other sensitive issues and in addition are: “guaranteeing strong protections for the natural and historic environment”.

People consciously or subconsciously NEED views and spaciousness to relax their minds. More and more, it is recognised as a contributor to mental health. Why else do people pay a premium for homes with views? This proposal is far too large and would blight the area and the increasingly international tourism it depends on.

Madeline Tuson, Llangwm, Pembrokeshire, by email.

Simplicity Is The Key

Dear Editor,

What are we going to leave our children’s children? An earth, littered with pot-holes in our own desperate search for ‘fuel’! Littered with fallen down wind turbines and pylons that carried power to all corners of the land! All abandoned because of lack of fuel and expensive maintenance costs. Remember ‘Chernobyl’ in Ukraine!

One mistake, or carelessness and disaster. The time will come when ideas from eastern countries will come in useful, like building the cow shed and living quarters and to use the heat generated by the animals to warm living quarters!

Why did the dinosaur die out? Was he too large and clumsy to catch smaller prey, when his food chain died out? And they are still building disaster. “High performance” cars with a fuel and a price tag to match! Look at bees and ants, they work together in harmony and when disaster strikes, the hive joins and will put things right!

And mankind is all “I am all right”, damn you! Selfish! Why is there no interest in the power of flowing water? There are rivers and streams, wasting their power on the door- step that could be used to provide electricity, for the local net and we would not need distant supplies. Employ local labour, minimise long supply lines and be flexible by having several smaller generators. Fed by water via an over-shoot water wheel and would work day and night. Fed by pipes with taps, that control the flow and can be turned on and off anytime.

Maintained during the summer, ready for winter. “Simplicity” is the key because: there is less to go wrong!

Mr Bittner, Wareham, by post

Council’s Big Brother Tactics

Dear Editor,

What a load of rubbish!

Has anyone else been as concerned as me with the onward march of bureaucracy in the form of the just-implemented ‘reassignment’ of our waste collection? At some considerable expense, a glossy booklet was delivered to all Purbeck households six months back entitled “How to Recycle for Dorset” with its baby sibling “Your recycling and rubbish collections are changing” and an accompanying letter from the Director of Dorset Waste Partnership, no less.

In particular, as a payer of huge amounts of Council Tax for the privilege of having my modest amount of waste collected, I really think it is out of order to be told on page five of the first publication (bullet point one) that, for example, my ‘containers’ must be put out “no earlier than 6pm the evening before”. Er, Why? Probably to satisfy some ‘elf and safety rule. But what if I am away for a couple of days?

Other bullet points state that I must leave the container “at the kerbside” and they must have their handles “facing the road” with the lid “completely closed” – but I have no kerb and some containers have no handles! The rules from on high continue: No additional rubbish sacks will be collected and “empty containers will be returned to the collection point”. Well that will be a first – they are normally left right in the middle of my driveway, preventing vehicular access until moved by me!

Big brother looms further down the same page with mention of “electronic ID tags” being fixed to our bins, presumably so that the Council can snoop on us to find out if we are complying with their petty rules above.

Then there are instructions as to how to prepare your waste – for example using lots of metered water and time by washing everything out before placing it into the bin ... but which bin I wonder ... oh it is all so confusing and complicated!

Do you remember the good old days before you were expected to do the Council’s work for them and simply left your galvanised dustbin in situ ‘round the back’, full of any rubbish you filled it with for the cheerful dustman to collect weekly? That was a REAL service for the relatively small amount of Rates we paid.

Can you imagine what would happen if we lived in any other country in Europe and they were told to obey all these petty rules? They would simply ignore them and carry on as before whereas the dear old (and not so old) British housewife will comply with all this rubbish even if her custom and practise of many years is replaced by these petty rules.

I am not against sensible recycling but do object to being bound by unnecessary bureaucracy and big brother tactics from the Council to whom I pay gross amounts of Council Tax. Have they forgotten who is the customer – and who pays their salaries? And all this to satisfy European green targets when it has been well documented that our carefully washed and sorted waste will all be lumped together again and exported to scar the land in some Far Eastern country.

John Hale, Wareham

It Makes You Think!

Dear Editor,

“Thinking by its very nature goes beyond what is observed”. So stated Rudolf Steiner in his 1893 work ‘The Philosophy of Freedom’.

But why do I quote these words?

Within their poignant context this writer sees ‘The man in black’ in his sickly yellow surround, nailed to a million wooden poles across the country, each supporting electric wires. Now greatly enlarged, now at the front or rear of the pole, or both, sometimes forming a collar (of sorts). We are not supposed to think, only to react to the stimulus in a more or less unconscious way. The authorities are telling us something important. Who has not read ‘Danger of Death Keep Off.’? The silly man has just been up the pole and has received a nasty electric shock – indeed he may not recover.

Pavlov and Skinner of goldfish and mice fame will understand the efficacy of the electric shock. What these and other pioneers of the behaviourist school of psychology had developed worked well in Soviet Russia and war time Germany. Is their materialistic thinking now to be applied to contemporary Britain?

Human thinking is not to be misrepresented; our essential humanity expressed love, joy and an ethical individualism – a sense of freedom is in the very air we breathe.

David Barsley, Swanage, by hand.

Ill-Informed Gossip Damaging

Dear Gazette,

David Hollister’s article headed ‘Another One Bites The Dust’ is illinformed in regard to the Langton Matravers Village Shop, and is potentially damaging to a successful sale of that business. Yes, the owners do want to sell and retire and, yes, they have been unsuccessful in so doing in the current economic climate - but the business continues as a viable concern and is not about to close. The owners Bob Clyde and his wife Anne made this abundantly clear at the recent meeting held in Langton’s Village Hall. Although not made clear at the meeting, it seems that a private conversation discussing a possible option for the business was leaked, resulting in panic among some villagers that were concerned they might lose this convenient amenity. The result must have felt like a body-blow to the owners, with their livelihood now up for discussion by all and sundry - and they probably felt their hopes of a successful sale were fading faster than the gossip was increasing!

Of course, Bob and Anne were consulted by those raising the questionnaire that subsequently circulated via The Dubber, but one wonders just how much thought went into how they, the Owners, felt. One hopes that, if any good is to come of it all, perhaps the publicity will attract a prospective buyer now it’s known that the business continues as a viable concernor, alternatively, the group of people identified from the questionnaire as being interested in investing in the amenity may make an acceptable offer. Let’s hope so, it was the only useful information gathered, it seems to me. David continues, in his article, to ask where we all shop. Well, I don’t think anybody’s going to change the face of weekly shopping to any great extent - we all use supermarkets for obvious reasons and many now have their heavy shop delivered to the door. That’s the future, but it doesn’t mean a village shop cannot exist alongside as a convenience - provided it is properly supported by the community within which it sits. As someone succinctly pointed out at the Langton meeting, it wouldn’t be asking too much for each person to allocate just a small portion of their weekly shop to procurement from their Village Shop, perhaps doubling what they currently spend there. Pity that didn’t happen for Cleall’s of Corfe.

Yours Sincerely, Dave Fisher, High Street, Langton Matravers

A Valued Village Hub

Dear Editor, THRIVING VILLAGE SHOP

Langton Matravers Village Shop is alive and well, fully endorsed by its customers as a natural and valued hub in the village. But its main claim to fame is that “it has what you want when you need it, including homecooked ready meals and local products.”

Langton residents packed the village hall on 27th February, pledging support for the shop and its potential new owners in the near future.

As a member of the Ecology Building Society, I know that this is just the sort of property its mortgages fund, as it provides jobs and a service to the community at the same time.

Yours sincerely, Di McDonald, Acton, Langton Matravers. By email.

Our Shop Is Not ‘Doomed’

Dear Gazette,

As the owner of Langton Village Stores and Post Office, I was very concerned to read David Hollister’s comment about our shop in his column in February’s Gazette.

Having owned and run the shop for nearly ten years, we have reached retirement age and so put the business on the market two years ago. Our shop is not ‘doomed’ as David implies.

Many village shops are thriving down to the hard work and initiative of their owners. Our shop is and continues to be a viable business. It provides Anne and me with a reasonable living and supports two part-time jobs. It also contributes to the businesses of our suppliers, many of which are local. There are also opportunities in the business for our successor to develop it further.

However, we completely understand our customers’ concern about the future of the shop and because of this, we worked with the small team who, following a Parish Council meeting, produced and circulated a questionnaire about the various options for shopping in Langton. This allowed people to voice their concerns and also to get an understanding of the various options if it turns out that, after all our efforts, the right buyer does not come forward.

The Purbeck Gazette 7

Delicate Repairs

Work done locally

Georgian Gems

28 High Street, Swanage 01929 424697

Open: M,T,W,F,Sat or by appointment

At an open village meeting at which the results of the questionnaire were presented, I explained the real situation, regarding the shop, that is to say, there are no plans whatsoever for the shop to close in the near future. I also explained that rumours and misguided speculation were not helpful. We were extremely encouraged by the vocal support for the shop that we were given at the meeting and we look forward to continuing to serve the Langton area, whether local residents, second home owners or visitors. So, to stress again, Langton Village Stores is not closing. If anything, the shop is prospering, thanks to the continuing support of our customers, friends and neighbours.

Yours sincerely, Bob Clyde, Langton Village Stores & Post Office, High Street, Langton Matravers

Dear Gazette,

Is there no depth to which some people will not stoop?

After the sudden disappearance of Billy Bloomer, Wareham in Bloom’s mascot and deer scarer, we were given a very handsome chap to fill the position. He was constructed on a steel frame and dressed to suit his duties, and with his feet firmly set in concrete it was felt that he was reasonably safe. However, after only three days of carrying out his very important duties, some undesirable nondescripts humiliated him by stripping him of his uniform, decapitating and disembowelling him.

It is now felt that Wareham in Bloom will not put any deer scarer through such an humiliation again. The committee work extremely hard trying to enhance Wareham in many ways, and no matter how a small minority try to destroy our work, we will not be deterred. I would like to thank everyone who supported our fund raising event on the 1st March, which raised £379. Our next event will be held on 10th May, offers of plants, brica-brac, tombola and draw prizes and offers of help would be appreciated. Our floral displays have been ordered to arrive at the beginning of June when there is no likelihood on frost.

Eric L

Osmond. Chairman Wareham in Bloom.

Cycling - Voice Of Experience

Dear Gazette,

I realise that my opinions on cycleways may clash with those of some experts, but in cycling around many areas of the country, both urban and rural, I have reached my own conclusions.

Contrary to present design opinion, I am generally against combined footpaths/cycleways in urban and semi-urban areas. The reasons are basic and simple:

Footpaths are rarely as well maintained as roads. This often results in dangerous combinations to the cyclist

The surfaces are allowed to deteriorate to a state where they would not be tolerated by motorists (but cyclists are expected to accept what they are given). Councils are generally slow to restore them.

Trees and hedges are allowed to overhang the pavement. Brambles spread across it. In avoiding one hazard, cyclists are thrown into the other. Out of frustration, they join the road anyway.

The most dangerous points are those where cycle paths end, and cyclists rejoin the road. The junction is almost invariably at right angles to the road, involving a tight turn, and a need in many cases to stop. Where the lengths of cycleways are short, the cyclist is constantly hindered, and understandably loses patience

Where 1 and 2 above coincide, the situation is even more dangerous. Cyclists joining the road at junctions as in 2 above are immediately of concern to vehicle drivers – they distract the drivers from other events on the road, and far more so than when simple overtaking is involved.

MATT HILLAN

Memorial

01929

423787 / 07593166867

and

Cyclists generally wish to proceed at comfortable pedalling speeds (which can be anywhere between 8 and 18 mph). Travelling at anything beyond the lower end on a combined footpath/cycleway makes for dangers in overtaking both pedestrians and other cyclists.

The decision has to be made as to whether cycleways are installed for the regular, serious, perhaps commuting cyclist, or the inexperienced young. With the advent of mass ownership of cars, two generations of people have had little or no experience of cycling (and this probably includes many of the District/County planners). Hence the majority of parents do not have the knowledge to coach their children from a background of experience and being accustomed to being on two wheels. Those new to cycling encourage, rather than discourage the use of footpaths, to the detriment of pedestrians, and contrary to the law.

The very young have always been allowed to ride their tricycles/bicycles on footpaths, but should be weaned off the habit as early as possible. The use by cyclists of the strip of tarmac between the verge and the continuous white line on many roads is, on the other hand, to be encouraged.

Drivers naturally tend to avoid this lane. This is confirmed by HGV drivers with whom I have discussed the matter, and matches my experience as a motorist.

If 1m wide, it is sufficient for a cyclist (provided that cats’ eyes are not set within it)

Its surface is maintained generally to the standard of the surface of the main carriageway (except where detritus lies on it).

Overtaking of cyclists by cyclists is a smooth operation, involving small angles of movement by the overtaker.

I recommend that, where possible, cycle lanes should be on the roads, rather than on footpaths. This may involve reducing the width of some generous footpaths when the road reaches its due time for repair. Lanes should always be incorporated into new roads.

I further recommend that cyclists should be discouraged from crossing slip roads at exits from dual carriageways, even at right angles to the carriageway, and that the Highway Code should advise cyclists to ride up the exit slip road to its junction and proceed back to the main road via the entry slip road, unless the main road is clear of traffic. Vehicle drivers should not be put in the position, as they enter or leave slip roads, of having to avoid cyclists.

To declare my position, I am in my seventies, have cycled since being an infant, have no interest in cycle races, but cover over 4,000 miles per year. For each of the last three years, this has included a journey of at least 500 miles through town and country.

I have had ample opportunity to draw comparisons, and more experience (I suggest) than many who design roads and paths on my behalf.

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Generosity Brings Comfort

Dear Gazette,

John’s Chair

May I give a sincere thank you to all who gave a donation in loving and grateful memory of my dear husband, Canon John Eastgate, to Swanage Hospital League of Friends.

At my request, they have now purchased a beautifully comfortable modern recliner chair, with a head support, arm support and leg raiser, to be used in the ward and day room of the hospital.

My main idea was for it to be used by visiting relatives staying overnight with their dying loved ones (as I did for several nights) who may be just longing to put their feet up for a while and ease their back; but it could also be used by patients on the ward in the daytime, and for night nurses in their short breaks during busy night shifts.

I will be so glad if this chair can bring comfort to those who use it, at a time of stress and trauma.

Thank you again for your generosity.

Jane Eastgate, Swanage, by email.

Lions’ Easter Egg Raffle

Dear Editor,

I wish to draw peoples’ attention once again to the forthcoming Easter Egg Raffle that the Swanage Lions are organising. In 2013 we managed to raise £1100, which was presented to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. As Easter is later this year we are hoping to raise even more money for this very important service.

Of course we would not be able to achieve this without the huge support we receive from local pubs and other public venues. Please look out for the large chocolate eggs, decorated in the Lions’ colours, that will go out to participating locations at the beginning of April. We will also be setting up a stall outside the Co-Op, Swanage Post Office and on the platform of Swanage station during the Easter week.

Please give your support for such a worthwhile cause.

Best regards from Vicki Church, on behalf of Swanage Lions.

A Classic Day Out

Dear Gazette,

Swanage Charity Day & Classic Car Display

Sunday 27th April. 2015 -11am – 4pm.

Through our local marvellous magazine, I would like to remind you of this fun day when we have some wonderful classic and veteran cars coming from all parts of South England.

The Mayor of Swanage will open the proceedings officially at 11am. Cars can register beforehand at either my address (see below) or at Wilcox & Cook acting as agents for me (see below)

Any charity can have a stall at £10 for a double pitch or £15 for Crafts, Business Stand or General Public Stand. Again register as above. Please bring a gazebo or plastic sheet for wet weather.

Everyone is welcome for a donation of £1 at the gate which will go to the Air Ambulance with a free programme and raffle ticket. You can vote for the best car on show and a shield and certificates will be presented at 3.45 pm with the raffle prizes.

All proceeds will be shared between local charities and the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance and please pray for fine weather.

It will be good if the stall holders can be on site between 8.30 - 9.30am as the cars come in about 10am.

Looking forward to seeing you all.

Jenny Lazenbury (Organiser)

Home Nest, 127 Victoria Avenue, Swanage, Telephone 01929 288092

Wilcox & Cook, Commercial Road, Swanage.

Say NO! To New Homes

Dear Gazette,

North Swanage residents need to face up to the fact that the prospect of more than 200 homes being built on their doorstep is very real - unless they do something about it!

Such a development, as outlined in the Swanage Local Plan, would drastically and completely change their environment for the worst, and result in vastly more traffic, pollution, congestion and noise.

North Swanage residents need to start objecting NOW before it is too late.

Some local people say: “What’s the point? The local authorities will do exactly what they want and it doesn’t matter what we say.” The local authorities could well take that attitude if they are not told that local residents strongly object.

North Swanage people should voice their concerns NOW and say a resounding “NO” to Purbeck District Council and Swanage Town Council. S. Ede, North Swanage, by email.

Thanks From Upton In Bloom

Dear Editor,

Tree planting in Upton

I would like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to all those who have made Upton in Bloom’s Tree Planting Programme along Dorchester and Poole Roads possible.

The benefactors include many local residents and organisations. Also a very special, unique local charity: ‘Trees for Dorset’, whose generous contribution enabled us to extend the programme.

Yours sincerely, R.A. Griffin, for Upton in Bloom.

Dorland’s Delights Success

Dear Editor,

What can I say, other than the Dorland family (pictured, above) are absolutely amazed by the wonderful response we had with Dorland’s Delights, our first event, on 1st March. So far £2320 to be donated to Forest Holme Hospice, with a few more donations and private sales to

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Docks Local & Long Distance Competitive Rates

add to the figure.

Can we thank the following please? Swanage British Legion for allowing us to invade their premises - we took over the entire building! Mary and Chick Featherstone, all the Therapists in the Spa room; Alison Rumble, Sam Hill of the Beauty Room, Angie Page, Penny Ward, Kate Smith, Sarah Tiltman. Thanks to: Teas Maid, Ann Churchill and Pauline Woods for cakes and donations, all our lovely family and friends who helped us so much manning stalls, all the fantastic businesses who gave kind donations, Putlake Farm, Monkey World, Purbeck Valet, Beach Gardens, The Royal Oak, Swanage Football club, The Bay Skin and Body Centre, Peter Flynn, Innovations and Earthlights. Also to all the wonderful stall holders, Health-On-Line staff for raffle ticket sales and support, Drum Cussac Staff for raffle ticket sales and prize donations and the great Disco in the evening.

The next event under The Terry Dorland Foundation banner is on the 7th June. John Love will be doing a sponsored walk, where everyone is invited to join him, a good fun event. It’s going to be called T.W.A.T.S (The Walking and Trekking Society!). Further details to follow shortly. Carolyn Hooper, Swanage, by email.

Was School Building Necessary?

Dear Gazette,

Until July last year, Wareham had two Middle schools and two First schools. Both the Middle schools closed and the First schools reverted to Primary schools.

Sandford Middle, which was a very good brick building, just twenty five years old, has been demolished and instead of the First school expanding into the Middle school building, it has started to add on to its existing building.

This created a hotch-potch of old and new.

During the school summer holidays, work began on Wareham Middle school, again a good brick building.

A new zebra crossing and a wide asphalt pavement, which continued all along one side of the playing field as far as the hutted classrooms, were created. Workmen invaded the building and began extensive alterations and repairs.

In September it was decided that the Comprehensive school did not want to use the Middle school after all, but would use the playing fields. Six months into the school year and the pupils have not been seen on the field. Renovations have ceased, but the lighting and heating remain on. The Comprehensive has decided to add to the existing building. All this work, on four schools, must have cost tens of thousands of pounds. Was it all necessary? Is Dorset C.C. really short on money? In my life time I have seen two substantial schools built, one demolished and the other abandoned. Winchester and many other Public Independent schools still occupy buildings, which are hundreds of years old; the education in these is excellent. It is to be hoped we can offer the same in Wareham in our splendid new buildings.

Name and address supplied, witheld upon request.

Lizzy Dressmaker

Dress making

Ladies & mens alterations

Loose covers

Antique upholstery

Boat & caravan upholstery

Selling costume jewellery

Medal mounting & framing

Unit 5,The Parade, Dorchester Rd, Wool 01929 460062 / 07922 802710

LEARN LOONCE EARNNCE Adam Price

www.learn-once.co.uk

There been a lot of talk since printing a letter last month with regards to the newly-available Quadcopters. With the advancements in modern technology and high resolution imaging equipment, this is an issue that won’t be leaving us anytime soon, as the BBC recently reported....

Public Service Or Public Enemy?

Dear Gazette,

Last month a letter was published in the Gazette headlined ‘Purbeck’s Peeping Tom’. Swanage resident Robert Owen wrote in complaining about a four-rotored helicopter with a camera apparently twenty feet away from his window.

Mr Owen grabbed his camera, went outside and took some pictures of this ‘UFO’ hovering above nearby properties. What on earth was this ‘UFO’ doing? And more to the point … who is the ‘Purbeck Peeping Tom’?!

I too read the published letter in the Gazette and was even more shocked than Mr Owen. Why? Because … it was ME flying the helicopter, me being ‘branded’ in public as a ‘Peeping Tom’!

But the truth is nothing like that sensational … I am not a ‘Peeping Tom’! Rather, I use the helicopter to help our local community stay dry, safe and enjoy our landscape.

I’ve been a carpenter/builder in Swanage for the last twenty odd years and one of the biggest headaches residents face with our often-fierce weather is making sure their roofs are maintained. The trouble is with many flats, town houses and difficult to reach properties; getting up onto a roof to even have a look at whether it needs repair is not only expensive but can be dangerous too.

So to help, I invested my money in the state of the art ‘quadcopter’ with high definition camera to allow me to survey roofs and hard to reach areas without expense or danger for the property owner. When Mr Owen saw the helicopter I was surveying a roof for a long time client, NOT looking in his window.

It’s not just surveying roofs I use the quadcopter for. Coastal erosion is becoming an increasing concern for us all here in Swanage and the quadcopter allows me to safely survey the cliffs in and around properties to check their integrity. Plus, with the ability to fly at hundreds of feet above the ground, the quadcopter allows me to take spectacular high-definition photographs of our beautiful landscape for my and others enjoyment.

Jonathan Lucas, Bay Crescent, Swanage, by email.

An Invasion Of Privacy

Dear Jonathan,

After viewing your pictures and seeing the high definition - even of my wife standing in our lounge window, and in another frame, I can be seen standing on the front terrace looking at the Drone, the pictures also show our neighbour’s gardens, balconies and windows.

Our conclusion, and that of our neighbours, is that the over-flying by these airborne cameras is a gross invasion of privacy which should be regulated, viz:-

1 The owners of the drones should be registered with the Police/ CAA

2 An identity shown on the drone and the control ‘lap top’;

3 Residents of homes and gardens to be over flown should be advised before any flight;

adam@learn-once.co.uk

5 Pictures taken of property should be available to resident/owner. I appreciate that in this instance you had no intent to ‘infringe privacy’ but in the same way as firearms, the drones will get into the wrong hands. Coincidently, the same complaints headlined the BBC South News on Wednesday the 12th March (you may still be able to see on BBC iPlayer). An organisation called ‘Big Brother Watch’ has been set up and is complaining of the use of Drones even by Sussex Police! Regards, Robert Owen, by email.

Quadcopter Quite Worrying

Dear Editor,

Three weeks ago my husband and I were sitting by the hotel swimming pool in Bangkok and suddenly this small helicopter-type thing flew across the river towards the hotel, then zoomed off around the buildings opposite then back towards us again.

This went on for about twenty minutes or so then it disappeared, it was quite worrying as at that time there was a lot of unrest and the odd riot in Bangkok.

About half an hour later a man and his small boy walked through the grounds of the hotel and the man was carrying this object under his arm.

When we arrived back home I was reading your March issue and to my amazement there was a letter ‘Purbeck’s Peeping Tom’, with a photo of the object we had seen.

Yours sincerely, J. Coombes, Wareham

Regulations Tighter In U.S.

Dear Gazette,

I was sorry to read about Mr Owens encounter with the quadcopter outside his flat window (letters, Mar.14)

Quadcopters like the one he saw have recently become obtainable to ordinary members of the public due to advances in technology and reduction in cost.

Having a video camera on is a great tool for aerial footage but used in the wrong hands, it can cause upset and negative feelings.

They have been used in military and commercial applications for years where they have to adhere to strict rules. Private use of these machines is fairly unrestricted but as more cases of these invasions of privacy occur, that will very likely change. This has already happened in the US, where regulations are tighter.

I have a quadcopter similar to the one Mr Owen encountered, but use it purely for scenic shots and would certainly never use it to look through people’s windows.

I have included a shot of Swanage that I took using mine today (above). Regards, Mike Drew, Swanage

The KINGS ARMS in Wareham would like to thank NATHAN YATES, ‘The Purbeck Thatcher’ and Farmer, Phil Randall, for being ‘heroes of the night’ when our thatched roof caught alight in March.

Nathan arranged for Phil to come and help clear the road of burnt thatch, in return for Nathan helping Phil deal with a bull calf..... (totally true!!) Thatcher Nathan then spent the NIGHT thatching to help repair our roof, whilst Phil continued to assist in keeping the road clear.

YOU ARE BOTH TOTAL LEGENDS AND WE ARE SO VERY GRATEFUL! THANK YOU! From everyone at the Kings Arms, Wareham.

Probus Lunch Meetings

Dear Readers,

A full list of speakers has been arranged for the Probus monthly lunch meetings, held at the Purbeck House Hotel, Swanage, as well as a number of social events. The March speaker was Ms Elizabeth Price, a parliamentary outreach officer.

Newly-elected President, Roger Livingstone, said that this will be the 34th year since the club was founded for retired business and professional men in the town and they will be celebrating that in October.

Other officers elected were vice president - Michael Hampton, Secretary - Alan Rouse, Treasurer - Roland Carpenter and Programme Secretary - David Gumbrell, assisted by past Presidents Bob Ratcliffe and Brian Darnton.

The next meeting is on April 2, where Mr Peter Burt will be speaking on ‘Poole Harbour secrets’.

Prospective members will be welcome and should contact the Secretary on Swanage 424377.

SWANAGE ANNUAL PARISH MEETING

WEDNESDAY 9th APRIL

YOUR YOUR meeting views

YOUR

chance to have a say in matters affecting Swanage

In addition to your localTown, District and County Councillors, representatives from local organisations have been invited to make short presentations to the meeting. An update will be provided on the Swanage Local Plan and the Seafront Stabilisation Scheme.

7pm Community Room, Mowlem Theatre, Swanage Agenda items may be submitted no later than 4pm on Weds 2ndApril 2014 in person at theTown Hall, by telephone 01929 423636 or by email: admin@swanage.gov.uk

Please come along and have your say WAREHAM IN BLOOM PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION

Theme: ‘Buildings of Wareham’

Photographs should be A4 to A3 sized, and should be mounted on card. Title, name and number should be on the back. All entries submitted to Wareham Town Hall by Friday 3rd May 2014. Winners will be announced at noon on 10th May at the Town Hall.

That’s Democracy, That Is

David Hollister writes...

What a great idea put forward on Facebook by Nick Harris, suggesting a small working harbour (not a marina) for Swanage. It would give shelter to residential and incoming boats, and also possibly shelter for parts of our town from the increasing winds and tides.

Look at Nick’s ideas – all well-researched by someone who’s lived here all his life and been involved with the sea since he was born. But although he’s clearly not advocating a commercial enterprise, it seems to me that the only way this can get built – and it’s going to be hugely expensive – is if someone does it commercially, i.e. stands to make a profit from it.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/258465837648600/ What do you think ?

There are some subjects – like the Windfarm question – that will go on running and running right up to the day when the authorities finish their ‘public consultation’, totally ignore us, and have their own way. That’s democracy, that is.

Fracking is a subject about which I know very little other than it appears to involve drilling deep into the ground and injecting fluid at high pressure to fracture rocks and release natural gas inside. The fluid contains numerous chemicals including known carcinogens and toxins such as uranium, mercury, methanol, hydrochloric acid, and formaldehyde. The mixture reaches the bottom of the hole where the pressure causes the nearby shale rock to crack, enabling natural gas to flow into the well.

During this process, it is alleged that methane gas and toxic chemicals can leach out from the system and contaminate nearby groundwater. Methane concentrations are believed to be 17 times higher in drinking water wells near fracking sites than in normal wells. The waste fluid is apparently left in open air pits to evaporate, releasing volatile organic compounds into the atmosphere, creating contaminated air, acid rain, and ground level ozone. Each well needs hundreds of large tanker trucks to carry water and supplies to and from the site. They have to get there on existing roads.

When I was a child I remember talking to the old quarrymen who knew where all the ancient mines were under Swanage, especially in the Durlston area across to Benlease. In the light of the recent ‘Countryfile’ program which revealed that increasing numbers of houses all across the country are falling into old mineshafts which have been de-stabilised by the recent rainfall, I cannot help but wonder whether the potential disturbance to the substructure caused by ‘fracking’ and its associated vibrations might result in a few more big holes with peoples cars and houses in them? I can’t imagine that the ‘frackers’ haven’t fully researched all the old mines in the area…… they have, haven’t they?

The website ‘stopfylefracking’ set up by residents in Lancashire includes the paragraph “my brokers have made enquiries of nearly 300 insurance companies……. the vast majority are treating this (damage caused by fracking) as an ‘Excluded Peril’ and are not prepared to cover the risk under any circumstances, even if the risk was shared by the policyholder by increasing the voluntary excess. They have found only one company, Royal Sun Alliance, who are prepared to underwrite the risk. However, in order to facilitate this, they have increased my premium by 19.4%.” I wonder whether our area will become an insurance blackspot? Might be

worth contacting your insurers now to find out whether or not you’re covered for fracking-related subsidence, cracking, etc.

Now here’s the surprise. Our area is licensed for Hydraulic Shale Fracking and Dorset County Council have just issued a permit for an exploratory well in Swanage.

Infrastrata intend to drill an exploratory well at California Quarry just south of Swanage, steered from onshore to offshore to a depth of 1.5 miles below the sea. There they may find Sandstone Rock which has pockets of gas in it. If they do, then the rig will be dismantled whilst they do their viability study, and then they would have to apply for planning permission for the project to go ahead. If they don’t, they’ll pack up their bags and restore the site to its former condition. But surely they wouldn’t go to all this expense if they weren’t pretty certain of what they will find.

Infrastrata have assured the public that this process will not be “fracking” so “there’s nothing to worry about”. The gas could be a valuable addition to Dorset’s income. But whether or not it’s actually ‘fracking’ as described above, do we fully understand the consequences of what’s proposed? No Environmental Impact Assessment has been done. Surely that’s a first requirement and the County Council would probably have demanded it, had the proposals not been solely for Purbeck ……. (“Purbeck? Where’s Purbeck? ”)

So I’m just a little bit alarmed by the prospects of someone starting something they can’t stop, undermining our little bit of heaven in exchange for a few pieces of silver, maybe polluting our water supplies, maybe causing damage to people’s homes, and maybe leaving a residue of poisonous chemicals under our feet. Let alone the prospect of about 800 lorries and tankers making their way to the site through the narrow residential streets of Swanage having first negotiated the delightful village of Corfe Castle. Have a look at this website: http://frackfreedorset.org.uk/californiaquarry. html

This is nothing to do with ‘sustainability’ or indeed another pathetic attempt to mollify the ridiculous ‘man-made climate change’ people. After all, any gas they find will be burned thus creating CO2. This is an out-and-out attempt for someone to line their pockets at our expense.

Bloody hell. Windfarms. Fracking. Whatever next? We have to draw a few lines and do it soon. But don’t get me wrong; I’m not ‘anti-fracking’ or ‘pro-fracking’, I just feel that – just like windfarms - we need to know a great deal more before we issue licences, permits, or whatever. You could always write to your County Councillor and ask him whether he’s satisfied with the answers to all these questions and if so, would he like to reassure us through the pages of the Gazette? And if the exploratory wells suggest that the project’s worth going on with, can we have our say through a referendum?

Same sort of referendum that we’re not going to have on the subject of windfarms.

That’s democracy, that is. But at least we’re all in this together. Happy Easter to both my readers.

Christian Around Britain GETS HOME!

Former soldier, Christian Nock, 40, passed through Purbeck in February 2013 whilst undertaking to walk the entire British coastline to raise funds for Help for Heroes, whilst sleeping rough every night along the way to raise awareness of the plight of many ex-service personnel who end up on the streets.

Having left Blackpool in August 2012, Christian walked anti-clockwise around the coastline, finally arriving back in Blackpool to a hero’s welcome on Saturday 15th March 2014. He covered aproximately 7,000 miles by foot, carrying his 66lb army pack, complete with survival supplies.

He was accompanied on the last stretch by Lauren Foster from Kimmeridge, who he met in 2013, and Harley Carrington. Swanage’s Mary (of the hat fame, for those of you who’ve been following online!) also travelled up to Blackpool to support him at the finish line, with others from Purbeck and Dorset.

A massive well done Christian from all of us in Purbeck - you made it!!

Nellie and I recently purchased one of these wonderful new BT phones on which we can block withheld numbers, international calls and selected incoming calls and the result is… peace at last!

Nellie can sleep in her basket all day and I can get back to studying which materials are for recycling and which for landfill; I’m making good progress and another fifty hours or so should see me part way to competent, although I’m stumped on moulded plastic foam packaging at present. And it is proving difficult to abandon a lifetime habit of chucking teabags in the bin.

For a long time we relied on BT’s Telephone Preference Service but it simply wasn’t up to it. You still have to answer the phone, explain about TPS and then listen to the caller hang up when you ask for name, number and company name. Foreign callers don’t give a damn about TPS and just forge ahead regardless, so the time had come for more drastic measures.

Now, we run a business from our home so blocking calls was not an easy move to make without putting a lot of thought in to it, but we discovered that calls from withheld or international numbers are put straight through to our answering machine where a request can be left to be called back later; something a cold caller is never likely to do. Any sales calls that do filter through due to their number not being withheld can be selected and easily blocked for evermore once you have replaced the receiver. And I notice the larger charities are now employing fundraising firms who do not withhold their number; they are charming and persuasive and tug gently on one’s conscience, but it is for us to decide when, and to whom we donate. So there we have it, it’s so simple isn’t it? Except for one small problem…

The NHS. You may remember a while back Nellie and I were having a go at the Ambulance Service for strict adherence to petty rules in circumstances where sound common sense should prevail, well it’s the same thing all over again. Firstly, both the local Health Centre and Swanage Cottage Hospital, which we wholeheartedly support, use withheld numbers. A bit odd you might think, as they are in the book anyway, but not too much of a problem as they will leave a message, won’t they?

NOT ON YOUR NELLIE!

Now a close friend of mine has recently retired from a lifetime of midwifery and explained the thinking behind this, which I understand, but identify as one of those rules adjusted to the lowest common denominator to make a system, quite literally, idiot proof.

In essence the heads of the NHS, fearful of recrimination, have deemed that those below them are incapable of recognising that to leave a message “Hello Mr Smith, this is the Health Centre phoning to let your daughter know her pregnancy test was positive” is maybe not a good move, but that a message “Hello Mrs Jones, can you get back to the Health Centre regarding your appointment” is.

What will they think of next to make life more difficult?

Christian arriving back in Blackpool, flanked by Lauren Foster (Purbeck) and Harley Carrington. Picture by Nadine Hudson-Featherstone. Thanks Nadine!

Coastal Open Day

GLORIOUS SHEEPSKIN & LEATHER!

TLadies & Gents Pure Wool-Lined Moccasin Slippers

Out Of The Blue

Cop Calender

We promised something along the lines of ‘calender cop’, but unfortunately we just couldn’t get funding for a real calender.

Thankfully Nico at the Purbeck Gazette has helped us out and will be printing a picture of a real Purbeck Police cop each month in the Gazette. We will we publish the same on our dedicated Facebook page.

This month’s Calender Cop is Inspector Fiona Gaffney (the boss - pictured, right). She has been a police officer for fourteen years in both Hampshire and Dorset Police as well as time in the Royal Military Police. Away from work, she enjoys a slightly crazy way of keeping fit and doing good. During 2013 she completed a total of 20 events to help raise in excess of £1500 for Macmillan (check out her medal collection, also pictured!).

A small taste of what was endured:

Aldershot Night Terror - cross country with deep puddles North Dorset Marathon.

Total Warrior Weekend; lots of miles 50 obstacles Rat Race Coast to Coast; running, cycling and kayaking across Scotland Malaga Marathon.

In total the events amounted to: 322 miles run, 81 miles cycled, 325 obstacles climbed over, crawled over, swung across, slid down and jumped through.

If any would-be crooks out there fancy their chances of running away from the BOSS, then she is ready for you!

Crime update:

Looking back at February we had 99 crimes, the top crime types being criminal damage and non dwelling burglary. We had 776 calls to police regarding issues in Purbeck. We are concerned with break-ins to non dwelling buildings such as business units, sheds and garages. Remember if you see anything suspicious (SAS) call 999. We have Operation Sweep running and will give it our full attention.

Following our concerns in last month’s publication regarding dwelling burglary I am pleased to report it has declined. We had one in Moreton on 4th March, but apart from that we have not had one since the 3rd February. Several suspects have now been arrested and charged which is great news.

As I write all police forces are stating their complete commitment and support to victims of domestic abuse. Children are massively affected by the abuse and it does happen here in Purbeck. We had 116 recorded investigations in 2013 and 34 so far this year. Our

he St Alban’s Head lookout of the National Coastwatch Institution will be welcoming visitors on all four days of the Easter weekend: Friday 18th, Saturday 19th, Sunday 20th and Monday 21st April, from 10 am to 5 pm.

This is a chance to find out about the work of the volunteers who help to keep the sea and coast path safe for all users, and inspect the equipment used. Refreshments will be on offer. Everything is free, although donations will be welcomed.

The St Alban’s Head lookout is on the coast path south of Worth Matravers.

APRIL - FIONA GAFFNEY

officers are trained to take positive action and have access to many organisations that can help. If you or someone you know is a victim, don’t suffer in silence, call police in confidence or call 0808 2000 247 for the National Domestic Violence free phone helpline.

To contact Dorset Police please call our police enquiry centre by dialling 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency when there is a risk of harm or a crime is in progress. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 (mobile phone tariffs may apply).

Follow our social media, Twitter - @PurbeckPolice and Facebook –facebook.com/Purbeck-Police, we really value your support and comments. Purbeck Safer Neighbourhood Team

Wareham Saxons!

Children from Wareham St Mary Primary School enjoyed travelling back through time to the Saxon way of life with the help of historians from the Cranborne Ancient Technology Centre.

The re-enactment team braced winter sunshine and the icy winds of Wareham to set up a replica Saxon camp, with real camp fires and tools from the day. The children were captivated throughout the day with hands-on attempts at traditional skills and crafts such as making coloured cloth and using weaponry such as spears, shields, swords and slingshots which have vividly brought this part of their school curriculum to life.

Year 4 teacher and Deputy Headteacher, Robert Wellman, said “We were delighted that the Ancient Technology Centre Team was able to visit and provide children of all abilities with some excellent hands-on experiences. Throughout this term they have been learning about their local Saxon and Viking heritage.

Our learning journey started with a walk around the Walls in early January when we marvelled at the scale of these earthworks; who built them, how they were built and for what purpose. Now the children have many insights into the lives of the people who have left such an obvious mark on the town.

The day enabled our children to come face to face with many of the difficulties of daily life in Wareham 1,000 years ago and the highlight of the day was when boys and girls had the opportunity to handle and use replica Viking weapons!

Short quotes from three children:

Arthur Brooke: “I had to work really hard to sound the Viking horn!” (pictured, above)

Billy Ashton “I enjoyed it so much I was sad when the day ended.”

Maddie Winter “It was so much fun learning how the Vikings kept themselves warm.”

The Catholic Church Hall, Rempstone Road, Swanage Saturday 26 April from 10am - 1pm FREE ADMISSION

Tables: £5. Please reserve your table beforehand by calling Keith on 01929 450200

R.N.L.I. Crew Profile

Neil Hardy

Neil Hardy Lifeboat Operations Manager (LOM)

Neil is the volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager (LOM) at Swanage RNLI, a role in which he is responsible for the running of the lifeboat station and authorising the launch of the lifeboat when the request is received by the Coastguard. Neil’s family have long been connected to the station, and in fact it was Neil’s ancestors who were involved in laying the first bricks of what would become the first boathouse in Swanage 139 years ago.

Neil himself first joined the RNLI in 1989, whilst serving in the Merchant Navy. Neil says; ‘The station had recently got a new chairperson who was

Swanage Firestation Monthly Report

looking to recruit committee members, I was keen to put something back into the marine community and as my uncle had retired as Coxswain in 1978, I wanted to maintain the family connection. The family connection to the RNLI continues as Neil’s daughter married one of the charity’s helms at Portsmouth RNLI Lifeboat Station.

At the time we had the Rother Class all weather lifeboat and not long after launched an appeal to raise funds for the current Mersey class lifeboat, which was estimated to cost the charity £600,000.The local Swanage RNLI fundraisers were tasked with raising £200,000, but thanks to the support and generosity of the local community we managed to raise an amazing £400,000.

This was through events much like those which are being organised for today’s boathouse appeal such as coffee mornings, and golf days. It was an incredible amount. I took on the role of LOM in January 1993, just after the station received its Mersey class Robert Charles Brown. One of the most significant rescues in my memory was to the yacht Be Happy in 1996, for which the Coxswain, Chris Haw won a Bronze Gallantry Medal. I well remember being in the boathouse, monitoring the situation over the radio as the rescue unfolded in horrendous conditions.

There have been many changes at the station over the years, but nothing as radical as the arrival of the Shannon class lifeboat which means considerable improvements to the search and rescue facilities in Purbeck. It’s a massive step up and will be a huge challenge for the crew, but one which they are keen to take on. The training the crew receive from the RNLI is incredible but it’s their commitment and dedication to undergo that training, on top of the shouts, which is so commendable.

I am particularly proud of the team of volunteers we have at Swanage, both the crew and their families are all very much part of the station and the local community and they deserve the best in lifeboat technology in order to do their job effectively and safely.

Hi and welcome to this month’s look at what has been happening at Swanage fire station.

Operationally we have attended 12 call outs since my last report and these have included two road traffic collisions (RTCs) where two people were taken to hospital by our ambulance colleagues. We have also attended: a vehicle fire at Harman’s Cross, a chimney fire, a lift rescue, a small fire at King George’s playing field which was possibly started deliberately by persons unknown, four false alarms at different properties around the town, and two stand-by moves to cover Wareham and Westbourne areas whilst they were dealing with other fires. A

deliberately set fire puts the person starting the fire and other members of the public at risk of injury or worse. It also puts my firefighters at risk whilst fighting the incident. I can only plead that if you see any one starting a fire don’t just dial 999 and ask for the fire service also tell the Police what you have seen.

In other news, firefighter Amanda Tatchell has passed her command assessment and is now temporary crew manager for the next six weeks, well done Mandy. On a sad note firefighter Jack Adamo has left the service due to a new employment opportunity, so we wish him well but will miss him. If there is anyone out there in Swanage that would like to try and fill Jack’s boots please contact me on www.sm16@dorsetfire.gov.uk.

On a happier note I would like to say a big thank you to Ann and Tom Yeates. After a particularly bad fire at their home in Swanage last August, Ann contacted me recently and told me that they would like to do something to say thank you to us for the work that we carried out at their home on that night. On Friday 21st February, Ann and Tom held a quiz night at the Village Inn (big thank you to Phil and Carly behind the bar who looked after us so well and a big thank you to the Village Inn for allowing Ann and Tom to hold this event at the premises).

The evening went really well and over seventy people attended. Thanks to their generosity, Ann and Tom have made a donation of £485 to the Firefighters Charity. This was a fantastic effort by Ann, Tom and all their friends and families. A huge thank you from me and all the crew here at Swanage Station.

If you would like to know more about the Firefighters Charity and the work they do please see their website www.firefighterscharity.org.uk Stay safe and remember to test your smoke detectors!

Phil Burridge. Station Commander

Experimental Nuclear Reactor To Be Built In Purbeck

Our Science Correspondent details new plans for an experimental nuclear reactor due to be built in Swanage in the near future

The image above has been produced by a professional consultancy firm, showing the future view from the allotments at Prospect, Swanage, looking towards the new reactor (shown to scale on-site) at the Panorama Road site in Swanage.

Ihave recently been given a document containing an account of some highly sensitive discussions that have taken place at Portcullis House over recent weeks. The participants in these meetings were various MP’s, representatives of Navitus Bay and directors of Toshiba-Westinghouse.

The subject, was, of course, electricity. More specifically, electricity generation in Purbeck! Navitus Bay are getting increasingly disillusioned with the difficulties they have encountered in obtaining planning permission, the anti wind protesters and the Government getting cold feet over green subsidies.

Therefore the baton has been passed to Toshiba-Westinghouse, who are going to build an experimental nuclear reactor in Swanage. The new reactor is the Toshiba 4S (Super Safe Small and Simple) it is designed to be buried 30 metres underground and remain maintenance free for 25-30 years. There will be a control building at ground level measuring 22x16x11 metres to keep an eye on the processes inside the reactor, and to close it down in case of an emergency.

The core has been extensively tested in the lab, and the time in now right to give it a field trial. Swanage has been given the honour of hosting this very important trial, because the 4S generates 10MW of power which is more than enough to meet the needs of Swanage, the surrounding villages and the oilfields. Another advantage of locating in Swanage is that we are on a peninsular, and can easily be sealed off in case of emergency.

It has been decided that the best place for this facility is the disused dump site at the top of Panorama Road. The access road is not wide or robust enough, so a new road will be built to the south of Swanage, going from Coombe End, to the dump site, and continuing onto Townsend Road and onto Russell Avenue.

This option will help to ease congestion in the summer months, and emergency services will be able to access South Swanage without going down Station Road. None of the construction costs will be paid by the taxpayer, Toshiba and InfraStrata will pick up the tab for everything.

Phase 1 is due to start in September of this year with the construction of the road and the excavation of the site, ready for the sheathing to go in. The railway bridge on Victoria Avenue will be widened during this stage for easier access for the cladding. The sheathing will be made from special cast concrete, containing extra radiation protection.

Phase 2 will be beginning as soon as the road is constructed, currently estimated to be complete in May 2015. The concrete will be fabricated in the Thames estuary and brought to Poole harbour, where a temporary off loading facility will be moored next to the ferry slipway.

The loads will be transported on this route, because they are too bulky to pass through Corfe Castle. During this phase, the ferry will be running reduced hours, 7am to 10am, and then 4.30pm until 11pm. Between 10am and 4.30pm, the ferry and the road will be closed while the loads are being transported.

There will be rolling road closures on the route from Studland through Ulwell, and along the sea-front. During this time there will be no parking allowed on Shore Road. The motorcades will turn onto Victoria Avenue (after the street furniture is removed), and up to the new road.

Once all the components have been delivered, the construction is expected to take about three months. After testing, the unit is expected to come on-line just before Christmas 2015. It has been suggested that an exclusion zone around the facility should extend for about thirty metres in all directions, with three metre high electric fences patrolled by dogs.

STOP PRESS

After a meeting of local business owners on March 15th, it was decided that those present will receive free electricity along with third generation locals of the Purbeck area.

To take a look at the high resolution image above, with the ability to zoom in, go to: http://purbeckgazette.co.uk/docs/powerstation (PC only, will not work on Tablets).

Our tides explained....

Wdifferent tidal times, so who’s right?

Bob Campbell, world-renowned diving expert and master of the tides has been compiling the Peveril Ledges tide times we publish here at Gazette Towers for many years. Below, Bob explains in simple terms exactly how our local tides work, and what the tide tables printed within our hallowed pages show.

A query has arisen as to why, on occasions, the time we quote for High Water at Peveril Point differs from other sources quoting a High Water for Swanage Bay. Perhaps, first, a simple explanation of the rise and fall of the tides. For Swanage, the tide arrives from the west flowing up channel. Taking the low water as the starting point as seen at Peveril Point, for the moment the tide is slack - i.e. there is no movement. It then begins to flow at an increasing rate over Peveril Ledge and into the bay. It reaches a peak flow rate after approximately three hours and then the flow rate progressively slows down until the High Water point is reached, when the tide is again slack.

After that, the tide reverses and flows back out of the bay, also reaching its peak flow rate some three hours later as it streams over Peveril Ledge, creating a tidal race of turbulent water. The tidal stream will then slow down until at dead low water, it is again slack.

It is at these slack periods, when the tide starts to turn, both high and low, that it is safest for small craft to traverse Peveril Ledge.

However, the tidal conditions in Swanage Bay are not quite so simple as that explanation. As the water starts to flow out of the bay, all of the water to the east of the bay is moving westwards also. Slowly at first but building up to its maximum rate after about three hours. This mass of water, predominately all that between Swanage Bay and the Isle of Wight, is streaming to the west but it bumps into the projecting shore of the bay. At the same time, the tide in the bay is flowing at full ebb over Peveril Ledge. The main offshore stream being more massive pushes in towards the bay, squeezing the water and causing it to pile-up so that in the bay, the water rises again to the second High Water. Usually the second High Water is not as high as the first, but on occasions it can exceed it.

So, quoting tidal conditions purely in terms of the depth of the water can give rise to the second High Water being quoted in preference to the first High Water, regardless of the flow rate.

Now what must be stressed is that the second High Water is not a slack water condition. The tide from the bay, although temporarily rising, is also

flowing at full ebb over Peveril Ledge. Small craft approaching the Ledge on the second High Water may experience difficulties, especially if they were expecting slack water. Towards the end of the ebb, the press of water against the bay dissolves and the level rapidly drops to the normal

As we consider that it is the safety of small craft operating in Swanage Bay that is paramount, the times we quote for High Water are for the first

The tidal conditions at Peveril Point have been calculated using long established data compiled by H.M. Coastguard when they maintained the Lookout, and which is still used by the current watchkeepers of the National Coastwatch Institution. During my own service as an NCI

- after discussion with Bob, we have revised the information we print on the inside front cover each month to show both Low

THE MOWLEM

The Production Exchange present:

‘Emily - The making of a Militant Suffragette’

Tuesday 1stApril at 7.30pm.

Tickets: Full £12, Concessions £10, accompanied children £5

Swanage Musical Theatre Company perform: Annie

Thursday 10th - Saturday 12thApril at 7.30pm, with matinee at 2.30pm on Saturday 12thApril.TicketsAdult £14, Concessions £12, Children £8

The Vienna Festival Ballet perform: Cinderella

Thursday 17thApril at 7.30pm

TicketsAdult £18.50, Concessions £16.50, Children £12

Arena Theatre presents: The River

Saturday 26thApril at 8pm

TicketsAdult £9, Concessions £8

For a full programme of recent film releases, consult our website or posters at the Theatre

Swanage Pier Officially Reopened

The Swanage Pier Trust reopened the repaired section of the Pier on 28th February 2014. Despite the weather turning to rain just before the grand reopening, a good turn-out came along to celebrate the hard work involved in completing the repairs.

MP Richard Drax, Swanage Mayor Ali Patrick and the Pier's General Manager, Ben Adeney, cut the ribbon (pictured) to declare the pier officially reopened.

Following the major storm damage in March last year leaving a mid-section of the Victorian Pier on the verge of collapse, repairs have now been completed thanks to the incredible efforts of the local community, the amazing generosity of the public and a grant of £39,900 from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).

As part of the repair project, activities have been developed to allow local people and visitors alike to learn about and engage with the heritage of the pier, which was constructed in 1859/60.

Easter Fun at Burngate

Holiday Fun for all the family!

Every Tuesday: Children’s have a go carving 10am – 12pm & 2pm – 4pm

Every Wednesday: Adult’s have a go carving 10am -12pm, Children’s Messy Art Fun 10am - 11.30am.

Every Thursday and Saturday: Family have a go carving 10am12pm & 2pm – 4pm

Easter Craft Fair 18th April21st April. Art and local crafts on display, tearoom open cream teas and homemade cakes. Exhibition culpture and bookable stone carving courses. Free car parking and entry. 9.30am - 4.30pm

New for April - Drawing on the Landscape AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) Events. As part of this event we are running courses which focus on and are inspired by the wonderful Dorset landscape.

Carve a Landscape in relief with Jonathan Sells

Printing the Landscape with Heather Gibbons

Draw and Paint the Landscape with Dianna Quinn

Carve a local Landmark with Val Quinn

Purbeck Art Weeks/ Dorset Art Weeks 2014, May 24 – June 8

Easter Events at Corfe Castle

Medieval archers return to Corfe Castle in Dorset this April and bring the past to life.

The Wolfshead Bowmen and the Companie of the Silver Arrow will be leading demonstrations of combat, skilled archery displays, talks on the longbow and have-a-go sessions.

The Grand Muster from

Saturday April 5 to Monday April 21 features all this and more.

An authentic medieval encampment meanwhile gives a glimpse of what life was really like hundreds of years ago.

The Medieval Archery Academy from Saturday April 26 to Monday April 27 offers one-to-one tuition on the use of the longbow as well as demonstrations and talks.

The Wolfshead Bowmen are Britain’s premier longbow demonstration group dedicated to the period from 1200 to 1485 when archers formed the backbone of the medieval army.

The Companie of the Silver Arrow was formed in 2009 as a recreation of a mercenary company from the time of the Wars of the Roses in the 15th century.

Entry to the Grand Muster and Medieval Archery Academy is included in the normal price of admission but there is a £2 charge for have-a-go sessions.

Also in April: Cadbury Easter Egg Trails from Friday April 18 to Monday April 21.

Supporting local Artists and Sculptors - we will have on Exhibition a collection of varied works, in Stone sculpture, Paintings, Photography, Metalwork, Needlework and other mediums. Idyllic setting with stunning coastal view.

Tearoom and craft shop open daily throughout event. 9.30am - 4.30pm.

Visit the website for dates and details: www. burngatestonecentre.co.uk

Visit us on Facebook to get up-to-date information.

Contact us on 01929 439405 or email : info@ burngatestonecentre.co.uk

Swanage Carnival has had a busy few months already this year. While the town of Swanage sleeps in the winter months, our committee is hard at work planning your next carnival and trying to better ourselves year on year.

This is becoming increasingly difficult but we certainly are up to the challenge.

We can now reveal that the theme for 2014 has been set. This year we will be presenting Swanage with ‘Celebrate Britain’.

Take this as you will... some might think of Del Boy and Only Fools & Horses or even Dad’s Army, others may think about the Queen and the Royal Family or even WW1 and WW2. The list can be endless! So best get your thinking caps on for those costumes and floats ready for July/August!

The Aerostars Aerobatic Display Team

With a unique brand of tightlychoreographed aerobatics, thunderous radial sounds and magnificent smoke effects, they are a not to be missed event.

They have been thrilling crowds for over seventeen years and are billed as the best civilian aerobatic display team in Europe.

Website: http://www.aerostars. co.uk/

TheSwanage Carnival The Sky is STILL The Limit! Globe Inn

We are thrilled to announce that our Headline Event at Carnival 2014, The Aerostars Aerobatic Display Team, is Europe’s largest and most spectacular formation aerobatic display team.

Tasty Pub Food & Specials

Now that spring is truly here, come and enjoy the Globe garden and savour a pint of Casque Marque real ale. if the weather turns, we always have a f ull programme of SKY and BT Sport available. The Globe is a traditional pub with a friendly atmosphere and we welcome dogs and children.

Good quality pub food is available Tues - Thurs pm to Sat pm, and Sunday lunch from 12 noon - 3pm in the pub itself or in the garden.

If it’s for a special occasion, please book as times can vary.

3 Bell Street, Swanage. BH19 2RY

01929 423515

My War-time Memories.

By Brian Guy

No, No! Not Again.

During this narrative about war, there is always a chance that it will become ‘glorified’ or looked upon as some sort of great adventure. So let’s move forward a few months, briefly to describe the true horrors of war. That hidden bit that the media never dare step into - the deaths and mutilation of young men for our freedom. This is what it is really like.

Having been wounded back in Normandy I had the feeling that I was now safe, lightening never strikes twice does it? I had volunteered to do part time dispatch duties beside my normal active duties. Being one of the more experienced 19 year old soldiers, I had been entrusted to collect the next day’s battle orders from HQ back at Venraij, leaving at about midnight, or one in the morning. There was in operation a bank of searchlights set to illuminate the countryside, a sort of artificial moonlight shining in the direction of Overloon and the enemy, making night driving much easier. The first night I took an armoured half track to collect the orders, much safer to have some protection when on your own and carrying sensitive material. I had collected the waterproof sealed case containing the battle orders, and was on the return journey, when I took the wrong turning and drove into a tank road (they were kept separate, some roads had to be for wheeled vehicles only). The half track sunk into the mud churned up by the tanks, right up to the doors in deep sticky Dutch mud. Try as I might, I could not get the thing out. The thought occurred to me that I was in danger of stopping the war. How to get out? Then I thought, those searchlight boys ought to have something big enough to drag me out. With time getting short, I scampered off in the direction the nearest searchlight. As I approached a voice called out: “Halt! Who goes there?”. When I answered “Friend” he called out: “Hang on, I know that voice! Come in!” This man from my home town had our typical country way of speaking. He invited me into his tent and made me a very generous mug of rum and strong tea, plus a yarn. He got a very large Scammel truck with a winch on the front, drove down to where it was stuck and pulled the half track out like a cork. Luckily the war was able to continue.

After that shambles I decided to take a motor bike the next night. No trouble going, but on the way back, disaster!

In the vicinity of the Molen beek that had caused so much trouble for the R.E earlier, I was about to discover that lightening does strike twice. There was a dark red flash and violent explosion and blast, I was sent tumbling down the road over and over, the bike had parted company with me and shot off somewhere else. What caused the explosion? I do not know, nor ever will. Whatever it was, it caused a great deal of damage and for many years after, I spent time picking bits of shrapnel out of my body as they came to the surface. I still have some floating about, just to remind me; one under my watch strap, never had it removed. Oh dear! Lying in the deserted road, unable to move and all was quiet, it really did look as though I was going to stop the war this time. How long I lay there, I do not know. Time has little meaning when you are badly wounded. Found by some soldiers that had been in a lorry which had collided with the bike, they realised that there must be someone on the road.

They found me and stayed with me until a medical officer came to deal with me. While we were waiting it started to snow, I remember the gentle

Lions - Wareham Seniors’ Party

The Wareham Lions held their annual Christmas party for 180 local seniors at the Purbeck School on Saturday 18 January. A fantastic day for all with entertainment by Nick Sellars and also by The Land Girls, both back by popular demand.

This annual event is funded by ‘The Lions’ Penny 4 Christmas’ appeal, a pre-season collection around the pubs of Purbeck with the help of the Licencees to raise funds for this event.

feel of the snow softly falling on my face. The doctor told me “This will hurt a little.” One of the soldiers lit a cigarette and put it in my mouth. When the doctor started to tend to me I bit the cigarette off and it went down on my chest and was burning me. The soldiers were searching for the fag, while the doctor tended to my wounds. Taken back from the front line, I found myself in a school, my stretcher balanced on top of a school desk with a large window alongside. Unable to move and partly deaf, to my amazement a young English nurse came to give me some treatment.

“Are you an English nurse?” I asked. “Yes, of course I am.” She walked across the room with a hypodermic syringe that looked like a knitting needle, on the end of a half pint milk bottle, a huge thing full of green liquid. “You’re not going to stick that in me?” I said. “I’ve got to.” She replied. “Anti-gas gangrene injection, stops you getting gangrene in your wounds.” Afterwards, I had this very large green swelling on my arm to add to all my other disfigurements.

What followed next can only be described as a living nightmare, a nightmare of sheer agony. Put into an army ambulance with other wounded in racks on each side and in a very confined space, the inside had been blacked out so that we had to lay there on our stretchers in pitch, black darkness. The journey in this square box of an ambulance took us over the uneven and cobbled roads all the way to Eindhoven in the south of Holland.

This journey was the nearest thing to hell on earth that it is possible to imagine, with my broken bones grating and the indescribable pain of my back injuries. In the beginning, I had been determined not to join in the moaning and groaning with pain, but it was not long before I was crying out in pain, just like the other wounded; so much pain that it was not possible to talk to the other men. Hell and back is not an exaggeration. Nor is the term nightmare. I still find it very difficult to convey just how ghastly that journey was. I never knew who the other wounded were, and I do not think it was possible for the others to have survived the journey. As we drove on, the groans had became fainter and fainter, and eventually stopped.

The metal box of an ambulance contained a few dead men and a nearly dead one. This is the other side of war, being badly wounded, a side that nobody wants to know about. Arriving at what I think was Eindhoven, I was put into a little cupboard full of cardboard boxes, with my stretcher balanced on top of them, with just enough room. I was still lying on the same stretcher that I had been on for many hours.

During the journey the blood had soaked through everything, even under my back and into the stretcher. It was so bad, that thick, congealed blood stuck me to the stretcher. By now the pain had become unbearable, even given morphine the pain would still not subside and a nurse told me: “You must not have more, you will become an addict.”

Transferred later to a small ward with beds crammed all round the room, several other wounded were there. Trying to get to sleep was impossible, the pain being bad enough, some of the other men kept waking up, screaming.

Picture this scene, if you can! A small dark, square-shaped ward, with all the curtains drawn, dimly lit from a small red light in the centre of the ceiling. The overpowering, sickly, warm stench of human blood pervaded everything, with beds crammed in and almost touching, men with terrible wounds and with limbs missing. Some men, motionless, wide-eyed, still, silently staring at the ceiling. God knows what thoughts held them in this silent, manacled iron grip.

Blood stains everywhere, some men had thrown the covers off the beds in their agony, some sitting up leaning on an elbow, silently gazing into space; the low moaning of men in great pain, your own continuous and unremitting pain of back, leg, and knee injuries.

Some men talked in their sleep, often in a conversational tone, ending with a scream or a loud shout of pain, or despair. Sleep, because of pain, was only possible for very short periods when exhaustion overtook us. Then, to be wakened by the blood curdling screams and shouts of men who had suffered the agony, not only of body, but also of mind. Men, who had seen the worst of the hell of war. To be continued....

The Lions held their annual Swimmathon in October at the Purbeck Sports Centre raising £6733 which helps local charities raise valuable funds to continue to help our community.

The Lions now have a new mini-bus especially adapted with a lift for wheelchair passengers. Please give a cheery wave as you see our volunteer drivers helping people within the community.

RUBBISH!!

Here at Gazette Towers we’ve had quite a few complaints since the new rubbish collection system sprung into being. Some complain that after all their hard work sorting, the collection team simply put everything in the back of the standard truck, mixed together. Some had to go three weeks with no rubbish collection, not good if you live in a flat! Some seemed to take no notice of all the advertising informing them of the changes or the leaflets put through the door, and stuffed their ‘old’ rubbish bins to the brim with mixed rubbish, still expecting them to be emptied.

Basically, we need to change our system of filling the earth with mounds of non-biodegradable crap, and this is a positive way forward. It may be a pain to begin with, but at least it is making us address the vast sums of waste we all produce living in the modern world. The new system may take a while to perfect, just as it may take the general population a while to get used to sorting their rubbish and getting it in the right bin.

Below, we have a statement from Marten Gregory, Waste Education Team Leader, Dorset Waste Partnership.

“In general we are pleased with the way that the roll out has been undertaken but accept that there will be a number of concerns and problems during the initial phase. Our experience of introducing new waste services is that residents and crews take a few weeks to get used to the new ways of working.”

“As the new collections have been getting underway there have, unfortunately, been some occasions when recycling has been mixed with general rubbish on the collection vehicle. We would like to reassure residents that this issue is being addressed urgently and, in the meantime, we are trying to recover as much recyclable material as we can before it goes to landfill.”

“In the Purbeck area, the bins that were previously used for rubbish are now being used for recycling. We appreciate that this is a big change and we are finding some residents are placing rubbish in the bin for recycling rather than the smaller bin for rubbish. It is extremely important that rubbish is not placed in the recycling bin, which must only used for recyclable materials. In the first few weeks, if residents find they have additional waste materials then they should place this in sacks adjacent to the waste bin and it will be collected. This arrangement will stop once the new service beds in and residents get used to the new way of working.”

SRAILWAY PURBECK’S

wanage Railway’s Spring Steam Gala, a new event for 2014, is scheduled for the weekend of 5th and 6th April.

Taking centre stage at the Gala will be the Victorian T9 class 1899 built steam locomotive No. 30120 courtesy of the National Railway Museum and Bodmin and Wenford Railway.

The No. 30120 will work alongside Swanage railway’s own No. 30053, No. 34028, No. 30470 and No. 80104 on an intensive train timetable throughout the weekend.

Train timetables and special event details are available at www. swanagerailway.co.uk or 01929 425800

Purbeck Railway Circle

On Friday 11th April, Frank Roberts, a well known Swanage Railway personality, will present a powerpoint show entitled “Topham Hatt 30 - Thirty years of the Army at Swanage Railway”.

Having installed a telephone pole route over the initial mile from Swanage to Herston Halt in 1983, the Swanage Railway was offered thirty miles of redundant telephone drop-wire by the Watercress Line in Hampshire. In March 1984 soldiers from 30th Signal Regiment recovered and then re-installed the cable on the Swanage Railway, thereby enabling the commencement of rail operations to Herston Halt.

Members of the Armed Forces have assisted the Swanage Railway regularly for thirty years, with the 11th Signal Regiment being honoured in 2005 with Liberty of Swanage.

The Circle meets in Harmans Cross Village Hall, Haycrafts Lane, Harmans Cross at 7:30pm.

EVERYBODY IS WELCOME

For further information regarding the slide show and/or PRC please contact the General Secretary tel: 01929 554765 or email: gordonjakes@btinternet.com

Mounds of household waste left at one of Swanage’s main town bins on Institute Road in March. Pic: NJ

Local resident, Debbie, took this picture of an overflowing street bin in Swanage.

Swanage Rotary

Swanage Rotary has been fortunate to add several new members this year, which has helped evolve the club into a younger and more vibrant organisation.

“At its heart Rotary is about fellowship and giving something back to the community” says Gary Richardson the Membership Chair.

“When we moved to Swanage I was looking for something that could get me involved with the community but also enable my wife and me to meet like minded people.” Rotary fitted the bill and despite being busy with the Sailing Club, the RNLI and renovating his house Gary quickly became involved in many of the club’s activities.

Having previously been a member of Round Table, Gary understood what service clubs like Rotary did. However, he was surprised how different Swanage Rotary was from his perception. “I guess I had a fairly outdated view of Rotary” said Gary. “I was surprised how active the club is, both internationally and locally and how diverse the membership was – especially the number of women members”.

It was the appeal for the Philippines Disaster that really brought home the scale of Rotary to Gary. “As soon as it became obvious it was a major disaster I was amazed at the flow of information from Rotary across the globe and the way priorities for providing shelter were agreed and how it would be delivered”.

“I can’t imagine another service organisation in the world that would have been able to respond that way. It made me proud to be a Rotarian” If you are interested in finding out more about Rotary please go to our website at www.swanagerotary.org

Through The Keyhole Swanage Town Council

Swanage Town Council Meeting. March 14.

Spring time is budget time. STC’s is, in the great scheme of things, a small one. It’s a Parish Council after all but with potentially budget-sapping physical structures for which it, alone, is responsible. The sea wall, the green seafront and the listed Town Hall among them. As you’d expect your local Councillors (Tories 11, Labour 1) take the setting of the precept very seriously. So what to do?? On the one hand the majority Councillors have fellow Tory, Local Government Secretary Pickles, asserting on a more or less weekly basis – though offering little evidence - that the budgets of councils country-wide are full of fat. According to Eric they should make do on say 10% less per year, year after year – presumably until Councils finally employ a single (outsourced) one-armed road-sweeper and when he or she keels over, vanish altogether.

Pickles condemns any budget increase as an attack on ‘hard-working families.’ (In Pickles’ world, ‘hard working families’ don’t need local services). So he’s made sure any County or District Council which wants an increase of more than 2% must hold a referendum to do so – something, as he knows, no Council can afford. That’s one choice for your Councillors and one, no doubt, popular with voters, fed by much of the press on a daily drip drip about ‘profligate councils.’ Of course a standstill budget as inflation rises is not a freeze, it’s a cut. On the other hand your Councillors will have looked around Swanage and asked what IT needs; whether it’s possible to exist on a stand-still budget; and also to ask (where relevant) - if money is not spent now on such and such a project – will the town be required to spend more, much more, later. (Checks will currently be being made on the extent of recent storm damage to the sea wall, for example, a structure crucial, more than any other to whether Swanage has a future as a seaside resort).

Who’d be a local Councillor? Certainly they get little encouragement from the top. In the very earliest days of what was to prove our wettest winter ever – but before the Somerset Levels farmers dominated news bulletins – the Prime Minister arranged for himself to be photographed at a flood. His single question to an elderly man, up to his knees in water, was ‘What’s your Council doing for you?’ Nice one, Mr C! The poor

old chap’s problems apparently all the fault of his wicked and idle local Council. And indeed cynical politicians and their allies in the press might have continued to blame local councils for the weather as they responded, inevitably patchily, to rising water had not the leafy and very wealthy (but suddenly fast-flooding) constituencies of the upper Thames started to disappear beneath the water. After that we heard rather less of blaming Councils for a 200 year weather event.

Back to Swanage. In stark contrast to the very large majority of Toryled Councils which succumbed to the pressure from Westminster, STC doggedly voted for a small increase in its budget – because it was convinced it needed to. The margin was narrow. The Mayor and Deputy Mayor led the ayes, joined by the lone Labour Councillor in a 5-2 vote with one abstention. Clearly Councillors of the majority party are seriously split on this question but from an outsider’s view that is positive. If anyone thought differently, it shows the Council is not made up of robots.

Another respect in which this Tory Council differs is that, while many elsewhere have casualised all their operations, Swanage retains an inhouse workforce. The Council’s pride in these men and women was again expressed in the warm thanks offered by Mayor and Councillors this month after hearing Operations Manager, Geoff Brookes’ latest report. Dealing with the damage caused by a further month of storm surges, waves overtopping the sea front for hours on end during protracted high tides, and constant rain, Mr Brookes drew attention to his workforce’s duties under the Swanage Emergency Response Plan.

This requires his workers to be available day or night as they dealt with (amongst other things), fallen trees, flooding in town, damaged seafront coping stones, pier damage, jetty damage, the destruction of beach huts, the needs of elderly householders for sandbags etc etc. Damage was considerable and Mr Brookes advised that it would be a little time before its financial consequences could be reported. A consequence of earlier rain seepage led to the collapse of a heavy plaster ceiling at the Town Hall, which mercifully did not cause serious injury. The way in which the Town Hall staff had continued to work in the resulting chaos was observed by a highly impressed Cllr Bonfield, who brought this to the attention of fellow Councillors. Well done all the public servants.

Thirty Years Of The Army At Swanage Railway

This year on Armed Forces Weekend 27-29 June 2014, we will celebrate thirty years of military visits to Swanage Railway which commenced on 19th March 1984. Since then there have been over 120 formal military exercises on the Railway, and the characters taking part, the weather, the work, or a notable event has made each and every one an exciting venture.

In 1983 our newly-formed Telecom Department quickly got to grips with a 25-line Strowger telephone exchange which was installed in the Swanage Goods Shed. A more modern Private Automatic Branch Exchange (No1) arrived some years later, but that summer it was all hands to the pump and the pile of General Post Office telephone poles that had been thrown into the corner of the yard at Swanage were installed along the track to Herston. Ironically we were then contacted by the Mid Hants Railway and offered 30 miles of telephone cable; soon afterwards I asked the Army for some soldiers! A three week exercise for 15 soldiers was then arranged, and we retrieved the cable from the railway line at Alresford. Within a month cables were installed to Herston Halt, a Government Railway Inspector arrived on Maundy Thursday to assess the Railway and trains to Herston commenced on Good Friday 1984.

More recent military support has centred on Herston Halt and with the exception of the new sidings, the Army has now installed all of the Railway’s assets at Herston. It was as a direct result of the military construction of the new station access ramp in 2004 that 11th (Royal School of Signals) Signal Regiment was offered the Liberty of Swanage. There have been many dynamic relationships formed since the “Liberty” was received, but it is 3 (Harrogate) Squadron that is charged with keeping these links alive. Based at Blandford Camp, and part of ‘11 Sigs’, it is a healthy training unit of around 200 officers and soldiers helping to ensure that the technical skills of the Army’s communicators are maintained. The spirit of the Swanage Army Link has helped to bring together the community of Swanage, the Swanage Railway, the Swanage Branch and Club of the Royal British Legion, Team Herston and Swanage Heroes Haven.

More recently, a Government initiative has created greater bonds between the Military and the wider civilian community. In Dorset the whole county (and all district councils) have put their support behind the Community Covenant scheme, and I am delighted that we have been informed that a central Ministry of Defence grant application has been approved for well over £5000 to assist us tell the story of this unique Link. This is in addition to a further £2,000 that has been raised by other local sponsorship. Planning has been underway for the past two years, and on Friday 27 June the Swanage Railway will welcome back some of the 130 Military Life Members who joined the Railway; all aboard the Wessex Belle for a fun packed evening! On the Saturday (which is national Armed Forces

Day) the focus will be the serving soldiers of today. We have many plans, however some of these may change due to the current seafront works + the state of Sandpit Field following the winter rain – there is a big To Be Confirmed (TBC) box - see next edition of the Purbeck Gazette. I can confirm that there will be a Liberty of Swanage Parade at 1400 Saturday 28 June, but the route is TBC! On the Sunday the Mayor’s Civic Church Service will be held at 1500, and it is likely that there will also be an Armed Forces Veteran’s Parade – waiting in anticipation? TBC!

Can you help now, YES you definitely can, see armedforcesday.org.uk today. If you are a business – can you dress your front door of window in red/white/blue – or obtain flags from armedforcesday.org.uk. On the Saturday afternoon we are keen to enlist the support of the whole community to join with soldiers on Sandpit Field or Albert Gardens (TBC). We are seeking individuals or groups of any age, who want to have a military themed stand, support military charities, cook wartime recipes, and tell others about your family’s history. We are also seeking as many people as possible to dress in historical costume with any wartime theme. Please suggest any worthy ideas, thank you.

For further information please contact me through the Gazette Office or see Swanagearmylink.org.uk

Frank E Roberts

Picture: Credit to Andrew P.M. Wright.

News From Bovington - New Community Room!

New Community Room Cologne Road Bovington

We are delighted that Purbeck District Council has finished the building work at 21 Cologne Road, meaning that after more than six years of hard work, a Community Room, complete with toilet and kitchenette inside the premises is within touching distance! This would not have been possible without the dedication of many people and we thank everyone involved.

However, before the room can be accessed, the Cologne Road Community Group has to be properly constituted so that it has the authority to sign a lease, or tenancy with the Council. This is proving to be a lengthy process, but nonetheless it is essential in order to protect all parties. It is hoped the official opening will be in the next few months.

The Cologne Road Community Group last met on the 8th January 2014 in the Memorial Hall at Bovington; on this occasion with residents of Cologne Road and Duncan Crescent who have added a renewed enthusiasm. We would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your help.

We are thankful to Grass Roots for their £5000 grant which has enabled the purchase of some new furniture and essential items and the MOD Bovington for providing storage and a £200 donation. Thanks also go to Wool Parish Council who has donated £200 as well as promising a Notice board.

Raising money ourselves is a necessity; it brings the community together

and proves that we can be self-sustaining and able to pay for maintenance, rent, insurance and utility bills etc.

Our first fundraising event, a Table Top Sale on 1st March, was a resounding success and raised £448.25. We would like to thank The Purbeck Gazette for the publicity and everyone who supported the event and kindly donated raffle prizes, including Spar, The Black Bear, Bovington Tank Museum, Farmer Palmers, Monkey World and Stuart Palmer Plumbing for sponsorship.

Our next event will be Adult Bingo on Sunday 6 April (7.30 – 10 pm) to be held at The Black Bear Wool - thanks go to Mel the Landlady for organising this. Please ring 01929 405541 to reserve your seats You are guaranteed a fun night with Paula our Bingo caller!

More volunteers are needed and would be made most welcome by our very friendly group in making decisions on the use and future of your Community Room.

Now is your opportunity to consider hiring the room for your own hobbies/interests/meetings. For more information, please contact: Keith Norris 07825 264344 email: keith.norris@helpandcare.org.uk or Sharon Palmer 07881 533311 email: info@stuartpalmerplumbing.co.uk

Thank you all from the Cologne Road Community Group

Celebrate Wareham’s Heritage!

Did you know that Wareham’s Walls are the best preserved Saxon town defences in England? Or that Wareham was the most important town in Dorset in Saxon times? Or that Wareham had a medieval castle? Find out more at “Digging deeper: a celebration of Wareham’s heritage”, a morning of talks in Wareham Town Hall on Saturday 26 April, 10-1.

The panel of speakers includes well-known local archaeologist Lilian Ladle MBE covering 2000 years of Wareham’s history, and there will be talks on Saxon Wareham, Wareham Castle, and preserving the town’s heritage. Entry is by a donation of £3 on the door, but places must be reserved by contacting Wareham Town Council on 01929 553006 or office@warehamtc.gov.uk In the afternoon there will be a guided walk around Wareham. For further details of the day see our website www.wtm.org.uk

The event marks Wareham Museum’s 40th birthday. The original collection was acquired from Harry Broughton, a former mayor of Wareham, who ran “Wareham Pictorial Museum” in the front room of his house, The Manse, in North Street. The new museum was established by Wareham Town Council in 1974, in premises on St John’s Hill. The museum moved to its present site in the Town Hall in 1984, and in 1998, with Lottery funding, the museum expanded into a room previously used as the tourist information centre.

The museum has always been run by volunteers. We keep the museum open, six hours a day, six days a week, from April to October each year.

Work behind the scenes goes on year-round. There are lots of opportunities to get involved; email curator Louise Seymour-Smith on curator@wtm.org.uk if you are interested, or call in after we open on 4 April.

The museum opens for the season on Friday 4th April and there will be a grand opening ceremony on Saturday 5th at 10 am. The winners of a competition among young people to design a logo for the anniversary year will be announced.

We have a number of new displays or temporary exhibitions this season: a new Jurassic Coast display, a World War 1 display (from July), an exhibition on HMS Cattistock which was sponsored by Wareham in World War 2, and the Wareham Saxon sword is returning on loan from the County Museum in Dorchester.

Ben Buxton, assistant curator

Farewell Rodney

Rodney Martin Goodhand

His many friends in the area were shocked and saddened, by the sudden and unexpected death, of Rodney Martin Goodhand on the 5th February 2014, aged 75. He remained active up to the last by continuing his window cleaning round, where he made many friends, but his main passion of course was his coastal and wildlife photography. He loved being out with his camera at every opportunity. He was also well known for his greetings cards, and his many DVDs, which he made of the Purbeck area. He leaves a widow, Anne, children, Rachel and Matthew, and three grandsons, Daniel, Carl, and Ryan, as well as a lovely great-grandson, Oscar. He is very sadly missed by us all. Rodney’s family.

Swanage Food Bank

Afood bank in Swanage? Do we really need one? Well, Swanage is no different from the majority of communities where the need not only exists but is also increasing. Any one of us can find ourselves in straitened circumstances, facing the stark reality of not knowing where the next meal will come from. The situation becomes even more desperate when there are family dependents. This is where a food bank can provide short-term assistance to tide someone over an immediate food shortage. Since the Swanage Food Bank began in November, it has been able to help more and more people. The Salvation Army, rightly known for its sterling social work, has been issuing food parcels for some years on an informal basis. However, the need has grown and likewise the work, which now actively involves the family of local churches. It has become a team effort, supported by Churches Together in Swanage and District (CTSD), as well as in various, very helpful ways by local community groups and residents, as awareness of the existence of the Food Bank has increased. No one wants to think of people living in our town going hungry while there is plenty that can be shared.

How does the Food Bank operate? It is located at the Salvation Army and run by a team of volunteers. It works closely with a number of agencies that issue vouchers to their clients. A voucher entitles the client to supplies from the Food Bank, once a quick phone call has been made from agency to the Food Bank to arrange a time when a food parcel can be collected. Ann Davis, on behalf of The Swanage Food Bank.

From Purbeck To The Philippines

One local family’s mission to bring direct help to those

On Friday November 8th 2013, Super Typhoon Haiyan made landfall, sweeping through the Philippines and leaving utter devastation in its path. Thought to be the deadliest typhoon to make landfall in recorded history, the storm killed at least 6,201 people in the Philippines alone, and as of January 2014, bodies were still being recovered.

Swanage business woman, Summer Smith, originates from the Philippines. After watching the disaster unfold on the TV, she felt compelled to do something to help the people who she had grown up amongst.

Summer set about fundraising in Swanage, aiming to travel to the Philippines as soon as flights became available. She planned to try and help the school she’d attended as a child, if it was still standing.

Swanage townfolk donated £2500 to the cause and in December, Summer and her partner, Michael, undertook the long and arduous journey to reach the disaster-struck area.

Below, Summer recounts her experiences, and details a trip which has changed her life forever.

I SHALL RETURN

As soon as I saw the devastation that had hit the Philippines, my business became of secondary importance. I spent my childhood in Eastern Samar, which was the first point at which Typhoon Haiyan hit landfall. My natural instinct was to get physically involved and raise money to go and help my fellow Filipino people. With a generous amount of help from very kind local donations totalling £2500, this aspiration suddenly became a reality.

From my mother’s home province of Laguna, south of the capital Manila, we hired a van and set off on the three day drive to Eastern Samar and Leyte. Our first destination was a school supplies company in the province of Naga, a twelve hour drive away. We spent seven hours negotiating and selecting the supplies that each school year would need. Supplies consisted of pens, pencils, writing books, quiz note books, rulers, art materials and much more. It took us over an hour to load what must have been over

500kg of paper and supplies. The poor van felt very different to drive when full!

After three days of very challenging island-to-island travel and driving dirt roads, we eventually reached my old primary school. Children and teachers were in the middle of a lesson being taken in a roofless building near the devastated epicentre of the disaster area when I, a former pupil of the school, walked in unannounced.

The still-shocked school teacher told me their most urgent requirements. Not wasting time, I then went outside and returned with Michael, arms full with large plastic folders full of school stationery and learning materials, one for every child. I remember clearly the look on their faces and the tears of disbelief and joy that people from so far away, should care so much. Before long, nearby schools heard about this mission, and by the sixth day of buying and distributing school materials, four elementary schools and over 2000 children had received the plastic folders containing basic school supplies, as well as an array of sports equipment. The staff also received teaching materials to replace some of things that the typhoon washed away. We also donated £100 to help pay for a school to clear inches of mud from the playground area. The £100 could only pay for seven days of work. Sadly it will take over two months to complete the clearance, but we had to help in some way. Teachers have been paying for repairs and mud clearance out of their own pockets. No help had reached any of the schools before we arrived, and we were the first to bring the muchneeded schools’ supplies.

Charities had done an amazing job supplying shelter and food, but the poor schools had been completely forgotten. There was no electricity and was not likely to be any for another three months. Can you imagine coping with no electricity for a total of five months?!

Children are taught in wet, wind-swept classes. Mud still covers many of the floors and walls. But amazingly, the teachers and children carry on and even manage to laugh and smile. Their ability to carry on under such circumstances is just beyond belief.

It was very sad to be told by teachers that the department of education had issued a cheque for £400 per school but that they were not allowed to cash the cheque until given permission. No permission had arrived when we left, leaving teachers to donate most of their salary towards rebuilding

and clearing schools. Electricity supplies are very rare and are only available in the most accessible areas. Schools have nothing and this is unlikely to change. As you can imagine, once you have had a personal face-to-face encounter with the reality of the situation, it cannot leave you anything but deeply moved and determined to continue to help.

It could take up to at least five years to put things back to normal and for some, it would never be the same again. During that time millions of families will continue to struggle just to survive. The dignity of the people we met - school staff, children and families, was truly humbling.

Somehow despite the unbelievable chaos, children were clean and tidy. We can leave them to cope as best as they can, while we lead unbelievably cosseted lives. We’d like to offer our sincere thanks to the good people

of Swanage and Purbeck for their kind donations - on behalf of the people who were so touched by your kindness half a world away - thank you. Michael and I want to stand by these poor people, not just for a quick fix, but for the long haul ahead. In the coming months, we are committed to changing our business (Summer Smith, Station Road, Swanage) into a foundation to support the schools and children still in desperate need. Being brought up in the Philippines and experiencing at least twenty typhoons a year, I thought nothing could surprise me anymore, but my last visit will remain the toughest visual journey I have ever had to endure. My promise to these people - I shall return!

Summer Smith.

Summer Smith (centre, with cap) and students with their new school packs

Months after the disaster, many are still in tented shelters

Michael Binns (behind) and excited children, with their new school packs

Vast areas are still completely destroyed, with residents living among the ruins

WarehamArea Seniors’Forum ‘‘

Latest Planning News for Wareham

Town and surrounding areas

Development Control Manager at Purbeck District Council

Wareham Croquet Club - Myrna Gomes-Maria

Hear about the fun and frustration of this great sport.

Wareham Parish Hall (on Wareham Quay)

10am to 12 noon Monday 28thApril

For information, or for transport to attend, call Sue on 07825 264353.

Age 50+All welcome

‘‘

Wareham Area Senior Forum

Over sixty people attended the Post Christmas Brunch at the Parish Hall and all had a great full English breakfast – cooked and served by the Committee of Wareham Senior Forum. A big ‘Thank you’ to Stoborough First School Choir, who provided excellent entertainment followed by Jenny Baker, who gave a quick presentation about her role as the Wareham Wayfinder for the Partnership of Older People Progam. Carol Turner, our Acting Chair for Wareham Senior Forum, is unfortunately resigning as Chair. Carol is taking up the important position as Mayor of Wareham but we are very pleased that Carol will remain on the Committee and wish her every success in her role as Mayor. Luckily, Anne Laugharne has agreed to be the new Chair for Wareham Senior Forum, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge gained in her role as Chair of the Dorset Age Partnership and as many of you already know, Anne’s Husband David was the first Chair of Wareham Senior Forum seven years ago.

We look forward to a packed Parish Hall on Monday 28th April 10am to 12 when Alan Davies will be informing us and answering questions about your concerns for the future plans for Wareham, whilst Myrna GomesMaria from Wareham Croquet Club will give a quick talk about the fun and frustration of this great sport.

If you are 50+ then why not join us for this packed morning including tea/ coffee and cake?

Purbeck Good Neighbours Latest News

Over 50 and living in the Purbeck area? Then our Good Neighbours are ready to take your call on 01929 424363

This month Purbeck Good Neighbours received a very generous donation of £500 from the Herston Wives Club. This local club has a small membership but has managed to raise over £3,000 this year from local charitable events (for more information about Herston Wives Club, tel: Lorraine 01929 427726).

Westover Motors have also very kindly agreed to continue sponsoring this 1/2 page within the Gazette for a further six months - a massive thank you to Mike Boyd at Westover for continuing to support us in our work.

We would also like to thank James Smith, Funeral Directors in Swanage and Albert Marsh, Funeral Directors in Wareham. Each of these businesses is registered as a Good Neighbour and has completed numerous tasks that have needed two strong men.Their support has been invaluable in extending the services that Purbeck Good Neighbours provide.

The Beacon Project is now committed to helping the Purbeck Good Neighbours extend the project to Lytchett and Upton area. We now have eight volunteers in these areas but are actively recruiting more volunteers, so please telephone or email for more information. We have already received requests for a Good Neighbour in these areas and are expecting more enquiries with the added advertising funded by the Beacon Project.

Problems understanding the new recycling/bin collections? Why not get a Purbeck Good Neighbour to come along to help explain the new system. For more information contact our Central number: 01929 424363 or email: purbeckgoodneighbours@yahoo.co.uk

Fracking: to be or not to be - that is the question

Over 100 people packed the Forum’s ‘Community News Fair’ meeting in February. Our four informative speakers updated us on Swanage Bay coastal changes, Swanage Plan consultation process, The Swanage Railway and Swanage Hospital. There was time for questions – and tea! The Forum Committee then asked people what subjects they would like to see covered at future meetings, and “Fracking” was right at the top of the list. So…

Does the possibility of fracking in Purbeck concern you?

Do you want to know more about this particular oil and gas extraction technique?

What is the difference between fracking and other oil extraction methods? If fracking goes ahead how will this affect Swanage and the surrounding area?

What extra traffic and what type of traffic would be incurred? How could fracking affect the environment?

Is there anything that the people of Swanage can do to influence if, how, and where, fracking takes place?

If you would like to know more come along to The Swanage Area Senior Forum meeting on 9th April, where an eminent consultant engineer with many years’ experience in the industry will explore the issues: ‘Fracking in Purbeck?’

Wednesday 9th April at 7pm, Emmanuel Church Community Centre, Victoria Avenue, Swanage.

All are welcome and contributions and questions from the floor will be encouraged.

Car parking and refreshments available. For transport assistance call 07971 338486.

Arne Church Cat, by Ben Buxton

Sunset at Corfe Castle, by Gareth James

Albino deer, by Barrie Weeks

Home is where the heart is, an Englishman’s home is his castle...... Our homes are very important to us; how they look, how they feel, how they work for us as places to live and grow in. Homes come in all shapes and sizes, and are decorated to a wide range of individual styles, dependent on the tastes of those dwelling within. They also require a certain amount of TLC - guttering needs clearing annually, walls need painting, kitchens and bathrooms need updating and so on. Homes require regular maintenance, and as those first tendrils of summer

sun come meandering into our lounges and kitchens, we get the urge to not only dust (!), but to improve, update and reorganise our homes. Over the following pages we have invited local tradespeople and businesses to connect with you, our readers, and share with you the professional services on offer in our area.

Have a read, and whether you wish to simply update your home, build an extention or replace that old kitchen or bathroom, you’ll find someone local who can help you to achieve your dream home!

Limefrog Bathrooms

Limefrog Bathrooms is a local family run company, trading from Swanage.

We supply quality sanitaryware and bathroom products locally and nationally, and pride ourselves in providing a personal service to every customer we have the pleasure of working with.

Our team can offer a free home consultation with a full design service, if required, for bathrooms, kitchens and fitted bedrooms.

We also offer a full plumbing range including boilers, radiators, pipes and fittings.

New items added to our website regularly and frequently changing special offers.

We work closely with local tradesmen, and have supplied customers, both with residential and commercial properties within the area.

We offer free, competitive estimates, and are always happy to advise.

We believe in working together with our customers to help create the perfect solution for their requirements.

Take a visit to Limefrog Bathrooms for choice, quality, excellent prices and a personal service.

Beautiful Fabrics

At Stewart’s House of Fabric we provide you with most beautiful handmade curtains, roman blinds and soft furnishings, by offering a service completely customised to your own requirements. We oversee every detail during production to ensure you are completely happy with the final look. We have 100’s of fabric designs to choose from, expert advice on interior design and offer a free local measuring service Loose covers

We provide high quality soft furnishing foam for seating and other uses. Just bring in your measurements or a template and we will have the foam cut to exactly the right requirements. We also make perfect fitting loose covers, piped and zipped.

Curtain Tracks and Poles

We supply and fit Evaglide tracks which offer the perfect combination of strength, quality and affordability with a five year warranty on all parts.

Warm-up Ready For Winter!

There is nothing quite like settling down in front of a roaring fire, especially when the days are cold, and with our winters stretching out longer and longer these days. However, open fires are notorious for burning fuel very quickly, making them expensive choices when you are deciding on how to heat your property.

You have many options when it comes to heating your home; electric or gas central heating, storage heaters, solar panels or a mixture of several different systems.

Wood, or multi-fuel burning stoves are an excellent alternative, or additional heat source, burning much slower than a traditional open fire, and radiating constant heat when lit.

Purbeck Fireplaces (www.purbeckfireplaces.co.uk) was established in 1996 and supplies a range of British and European-made woodburners and multifuel stoves. They also hold a good selection on display in their showroom at 21 Commercial Road, in the heart of Swanage town centre. Being a local, family-run business, Purbeck Fireplaces take an active interest in their customer’s requirements, and will work closely with you to ensure that your choices are the correct ones for the building you are intending to heat.

Purbeck Fireplaces will take you through the entire process of choosing the correct wood or multi-fuel burner for your home, taking into account what you intend to burn, and the size of space that needs to be heated. They can advise on the best location for your burner, and will supply and install all additional materials, such as flues and so on.

Local Electrical Repairs

CMS Electrical Repairs looks after your domestic appliances, repairing Washing Machines, Dishwashers, Cookers, Tumble Dryers and some Fridge Freezers. This service is offered across the Purbeck area, covering Swanage, Studland, Sandford, Holton Heath, Lulworth, Winfrith, Bere Regis, Wareham and all areas in between.

Previously known as Mike’s Repairs, I took over the business in September 2012 due to the retirement of Mike Chittenden (thank you Mike!).

I really enjoy my work, especially being able to help the local community.

In addition they also offer a full HETAS registered installation service for stoves, flue liners and independent flue systems, and can also undertake all related building works including fireplace openings and chimney stack repairs and renovations. The showroom is open on Thursday and Saturday from 10am until 4pm or see Sharon in the Bookshop (opp Budgens) on Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday.

Dealers of Stovax, Dovre, Yeoman, Villager, Aarrow and Woodwarm , Gazco and Jetmaster.

I would also like to thank all the local businesses for their recommendations, especially Purbeck lighting (Swanage), Rex Hawkins (Wareham), A Harris & Sons (Swanage) and Parrys (Swanage).

I believe, in contrast to the throw away culture that we live in, that it is better and cheaper to repair your existing machine, rather than to replace it. This is easier on the pocket as well as being much more environmentally friendly. Even the loudest noise, or the lack of life within your machine, can often be repaired at a reasonable cost and is certainly a lot cheaper than a replacement.

Living locally myself, I am able to give a quick response time, so I am only a phone call away and always willing to give my advice.

Telephone 01929 554809

Excellent Local Service

Delivering Quality & Comfort

A business founded on quality, traditional values and service

M&G Furnishing had been a long established and much loved part of the Wareham shopping landscape at 15 West Street for nearly 50 years and it is the two year anniversary of its purchase by local businessmen, Martin Stevens and Julian Maughan.

Martin has been the owner of Purbeck Furnishing in Swanage since moving from Yorkshire with his wife Joan and family six years ago. He said; “The acquisition of M&J Furnishing has given us a fabulous opportunity to offer the people of Purbeck high quality products, at affordable prices, and with unrivalled customer service”…

M&J Furnishing has gone through extensive refurbishment over the past two years and customers, both existing and new, have found a visit to the smartly updated showroom to be a wonderful experience. The bright and airy shop offers attractive displays of high quality furniture, carpets, flooring and beds together with curtains, blinds and more; we endeavour to deliver the highest quality products at affordable prices and with unrivalled service. The enthusiastic and knowledgeable M&J Team is committed to building on the hard earned reputation of its former owners and ensuring that the business is in good shape to thrive for the next 50 years...

Come in and have a look at the range and quality M&J Furnishing has to offer… We know you will like what you see....

Time To Clean!

It’s April and tendrils of sun are beginning to make their way into our homes and businesses, highlighting any dirty marks, scuffs and stains that may have occurred over the winter months.

Come spring, many of us have one thing on our minds - yep, spring cleaning! Those corners need clearing of dust, those cupboard doors need washing down, and those light switches need a good wipe.

When it comes to cleaning some items however, you’ll need a hand from the experts. Purbeck Valet is a family-run dry cleaning business, which can also assist you in some of the larger jobs that need doing at this time of year - such as cleaning-up your centre piece rug, making your curtains like new again, or giving your duvet a new lease of life.

We serve both the public and businesses. We wash anything from an item of clothing to bedding for guest houses/holiday homes. We clean duvets and curtains, and offer an alteration and repair service - anything from a complete laundry service to just ironing your shirts.

NEW to Purbeck Valet Ltd!! Full leather and Suede cleaning!

Full leather and Suede alterations, Re-waxing and oiling, Jackets and coats. Come and see us!

We look forward to seeing you soon! Ian, Lisa and the team (pictured).

Beautiful Bathrooms

Purbeck Bathrooms & Kitchens is a small family owned business run by Bruce and Tricia Rimmer. We have over 24 years of practical experience in both design and installation, and have a tried and tested team of installers and tradesmen.

In addition to our extensive range of furniture, appliances and sanitaryware, we are delighted to now add to our portfolio Ambience Bain bathroom furniture, both as a fitted option or wall mounted units to complement our Villeroy & Boch ceramicware for those preferring a more modern look. Brassware by Grohe provides the icing on the cake, together with a wide range of tiles in our dedicated Porcelanosa room.

Our superb kitchen range by Beckermann of Germany sees more new colours this year, though the ever-popular gloss cream reigns supreme, either on its own or matched with a contrasting wood colour. We love helping our clients to put a colour scheme together which is unique to them, incorporating worktops such as Silestone, Karndean flooring, and tiles or glass splashbacks.

We look forward to welcoming you to our showroom whether for an initial browse or a more in-depth discussion of your requirements. We are open Monday to Friday 0900 -1700 hrs and Saturdays by appointment.

New Image For All!

Herman and Caitlin Castillo took over the existing New Image Tile Shop in October 2013. Herman (trading as Castle Tiling) has been a tiler for over twenty years and has built up a fantastic reputation and loyal customer base in the Purbeck and Dorset area during this time.

Caitlin has previously managed her own business and shops and has taken on the day to day running of the shop in Wareham.

She says “I enjoy helping a customer find the perfect tile and bathroom suite to suit not only their taste but also their budget and can help plan and design a layout and take the job through to completion if needed”.

“We all know the economy has been tough for the last few years and changing a bathroom can be a daunting and costly experience and we aim

to take the pain out of it and create something that the customer will love for years to come, always at a good price.”

“We work closely with many local trades and are really enjoying being part of a local community. A regular comment from customers is how nice to not have to travel to Poole!”

“We are currently revamping the shop with some beautiful new displays and would love to invite people to come to an open day on May the 10th between 10am and 2pm to see the new showroom and have a celebratory drink with us.”

We are open for business as usual while revamping.

Monday – Thursday 8am-5pm, Friday 8am-3.30pm Saturday 9.30am – 1pm.

Purbeck Furnishing

Purbeck Furnishing: Over 40 years of supplying quality and service to the homes of Swanage.

March was National Bed Month and as you can’t put a price on a good night’s sleep, here are a few tips to help you achieve that perfect night’s sleep:

Make sure your bedroom is as dark as possible,

Turn off your electronic gadgets.

Make sure your bedroom is not too hot. Choose the correct duvet for the time of year. But most of all, a good bed and a quality mattress go a long way. For more information visit www.sleepcouncil.org.uk for lots more useful information.

If your Bed is more than seven years old, it could be letting you down. At Purbeck Furnishing our extensive range, coupled with good honest advice, is enough to make sure you wake up smiling.

Whether you’re searching for a luxury double to snuggle up in, a reliable single for the guest room or perhaps the convenience of a sofa bed - we’ll find the perfect one for you at a price you can afford. We can even offer advice on adjustable beds for those who need the added support where it matters.

From a new carpet for the bedroom to a black out blind for the window, Fresh curtains for the lounge or cushion floor for the kitchen, Purbeck Furnishing offer you a personal service with affordable prices.

Everything You Need

Yield

The yield generally refers to the income return that an investor makes on an investment. It is the income expressed as a percentage of the value of the capital. Quoted yields are, therefore, based on current prices, but as an investor, you may wish to base your yield calculation on your original purchase cost. However, most valuations provided by your investment advisor will show the yield based on the current price.

Dividends on UK equities are paid net to shareholders. There is a 10% tax credit paid as part of the dividend. For instance in a 9p net dividend, there is a 1p tax credit and therefore the total gross dividend is 10p. For basic rate and non-taxpayers, there is no further tax liability. It must, however, be noted that non-taxpayers are not permitted to reclaim the 10% tax credit. Higher rate taxpayers pay tax at 32.5% on dividend income and therefore need to pay another 22.5% in tax. Additional rate taxpayers pay tax at 37.5% on dividend income and therefore need to pay another 27.5% in tax.

However, if these sorts of holdings are placed in a Stocks & Shares ISA, just the 10% tax credit is suffered and there is no additional tax paid by higher or additional rate taxpayers.

Income payments which are paid as interest i.e. from cash deposits and holdings such as fixed interest and collectives where the majority of holdings are fixed interest are taxed in a different way. They are usually paid net of 20% income tax. However, they can be paid gross. Non-taxpayers can either receive the payments gross or claim back the 20% tax paid via their tax return.

Basic rate taxpayers pay tax on interest at 20%, higher rate taxpayers at 40% and additional rate taxpayers at 45%. However, what is useful with income payments is that they can in effect be received gross if the investment to which they relate is held within an ISA. Therefore, the interest on a Cash ISA can in effect be received gross by all holders. Equally there is in effect no tax paid on any interest payments received within a Stocks & Shares ISA. This can be particularly beneficial to a higher rate or additional rate taxpayer.

Dividends and interest payments are often paid six monthly, although there are a number of dividends paid quarterly, and income payments from some collective investments which are paid monthly. A shareholder has to be on the share register i.e. own the shares on the ex-dividend date in order to receive the next dividend payment.

When the shares start trading ex-dividend ahead of the next dividend payment, the share price will often drop by a similar amount to the dividend payment as those buying into the shares are not entitled to that dividend payment. Although holdings bearing interest do have an ex-dividend date and a pay date, those which relate to a cash deposit or a single fixed interest holding are slightly different as interest accrues on a daily basis. This is therefore taken into account when a fixed interest holding is purchased or sold and when a cash deposit is closed.

Kate Spurling lives in Swanage and is a stockbroker/investment advisor with Charles Stanley, Dorchester office – (01305) 251155 – kate.spurling@charlesstanley.co.uk

Charles Stanley & Co Limited is authorised by the FCA and is a member of the London Stock Exchange.

‘ConfessYour Sins’

The taxman has launched another‘confess your sins’campaign aimed at individuals who have failed to declare rental income they have received from residential properties.This let property campaign (LPC) can’t be used by companies that let property or by landlords who let commercial rather than residential properties.

will pay a lower amount of penalties if you disclose under the LPC

Like other tax disclosure campaign the taxman promises that you , but the tax due and interest on late paid tax will have to be paid in full.

If you want to use the LPC to declare income and gains from your let properties, you need to complete a notification form on the HMRC website, or phone the property campaign helpline on . We can help you with this.

03000 514 479

There is no set deadline for asking to use the LPC, but the taxman is running a taskforce in parallel to the LPC which is targeting tax evasion by residential landlords. So, it’s a case of‘confess before we catch you’.

Once you have notified HMRC that you want to use the LPC, you will be given a reference number and be told to make a full disclosure of the previously un-declared income and gains within three months.You will also need to pay all the tax due within the same three month period.

If you can’t pay all the tax in that time period you must ask HMRC for a‘time to pay’arrangement before the deadline arrives.

The MKLPartnership, Chartered CertifiedAccountants Herston Cross House, 230 High St Swanage, BH19 2PQ

Phone: 01929 425552

web: email: www.mklp.co.uk mail@mklp.co.uk

Trading Standards

Trading Standards’ advice: Don’t be a victim twice!

Can anyone now remember when it wasn’t raining? Combined with strong winds and rising water levels, many of us have experienced damage to property in our homes and gardens. Have you been a victim of this persistent bad weather?

Maybe now you’re wondering if the worst has passed and with spring knocking at the door, perhaps you’re thinking of repairing and securing the damage already done. Some damage will be easy to repair and many will be up to the DIY challenge! Some damage though will require professional help and often we don’t know who to call to put it right.

The last thing anyone wants is to be a victim of the weather and then of a problem trader. If you choose someone that is not known to you, or agree to have work carried out by an opportunist uninvited doorstep trader, then you could be setting yourself up for more than you bargained for.

Personal recommendation is always one of the best ways to choose a trader but do you know an honest and reliable local handy person, builder, fencing specialist, gardener or tree surgeon?

We do! The Trading Standards Buy With Confidence scheme brings together local traders of all professions who we have personally checked. We know that they follow consumer protection laws and are fair and honest. Buy With Confidence members are then monitored by Trading Standards so we know that they remain suitable for our approval. If you visit our website you will even see what other customers think of them. Dorset County Council Trading Standards Service check and approve businesses so you don’t have to.

For more information visit www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk or call 08454 040506.

To report or seek advice about problems you have experienced when dealing with a trader call 08454 040506.

A Juke In Windsor

by David Hollister

Iwas delighted when Westover Nissan offered me the opportunity to test drive the uprated Nissan Juke n-tec 1.6, as my experience in the original Juke Accenta Plus back in July 2012 had been very positive and my trip to Torquay a real pleasure.

That was sunny July 2012 - and this was less-than-sunny February 2014. I have to confess that when I woke up and looked out of the window to howling gales and pouring rain, my first reaction was to crawl back under the covers and ‘call in sick’. But we were off to Buckinghamshire to visit James for the weekend, had goods to deliver to him, and Westover had already prepared the car for us. So it was stiff upper lip, get out of bed, stand up straight, shoulders back, and get on with it!

I hate the rain. And I hate the wind even more. But I have to say that given the choice between doing that 100-mile trip in the Juke, the Mazda 2 or the MX5, the Juke wins out every time. It ploughs through the wind and weather with no problems whatsoever. It’s a safe and confident driving experience.

The 5-door Juke can’t really make its mind up what it wants to be. It’s called a ‘compact crossover’ because it’s half way between a family car and a 4-wd. Sits up high with real attitude; the driving position is higher than normal, plenty of headroom and what they describe as a ‘commanding driving position’. Ideal for persons of all sizes from tall persons to short persons (like me).

The Juke turns heads with its unusual and very exclusive styling, with the interior design dynamics of a sports car; gloss black centre console, tinted rear windows, and sports pedals. The instrumentation style seems to have been taken from a motor-bike!

The model we drove was the n-tec 5-door 1.6 boasting 117 PS, a 5-speed manual gearbox, and an on-the-road price of £16395. All the usual acronyms, but probably the best bells and whistles that you’re ever likely to find on a car of this price.

Cruise control comes as standard. The sat-nav is easier than TomTom, using the now famous Nissan Connect technology with touch-screen. So is the entertainment system. FM/AM radio, CD player, all really easy to use. You don’t just plug your ipod in and hope for the best, it tells you what track you’re playing and lets you change the music from the buttons on the steering wheel. The Bluetooth system is easy to set up and to operate and keeps you safe and legal. I loved the colour reversing camera and didn’t hit anything all weekend. For a change. It has six airbags - which I didn’t test. The climate control is easy and efficient, with a large on-screen display. But then you touch another part of the screen and it turns into an engine management tool! Set it to ‘Normal’, ‘Sport’ or ‘ECO’ and yes, it really does make a difference! ‘Normal’ makes it feel like a 1.6 litre family saloon. ‘Eco’ makes it feel like you’ve got a caravan on the back but if you engage it once you’ve reached your optimum cruising speed on the motorway,

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and don’t try to accelerate, you save a very significant amount of fuel. ‘Sport’ is a whole different mood. From 4000 rpm the Juke pulls like it’s just broken away from a burning caravan, the steering becomes more responsive, and it feels eager to please. I didn’t look at the fuel consumption in ‘sport’ because I was too busy enjoying myself.

The onboard computer displays current and elapsed fuel consumption, and all sorts of other useful information. The book says it will do 47.1 mpg on a combined cycle but I guess it comes out less if you opt for the ‘fun’ mode. So don’t look at the onboard computer or worry about mpg, just enjoy! On our own ‘combined cycle’ we achieved 37.2 mpg, which is 79%, up there amongst the best. 0-62 in 11 seconds isn’t bad for a 1.6, and the CO2 emissions are only 139.

There were lots of useful cubby-holes including a double floor in the boot, 60/40 split folding rear seats, door pockets, cup-holders and a nice softtouch area for your ipod or phone.

The next day, having first examined the car to make sure that no trees had blown down on to it or roof-slates crashed on to the paintwork, we noticed a strange yellow object in the sky. And it wasn’t raining. We took advantage of this strange phenomenon to drive into Windsor, passing on our way the lakes which used to be fields, and occasionally being grateful for the high ground clearance. It was easy to park, and much easier than my MX5 to climb into and out of. Like, much easier. Oh dear! Maybe I was having a ‘creaky’ weekend ……. They seem to come round with ever-increasing frequency.

Had a great time away, and all too soon it was Sunday lunchtime and time to wend our way home. After the nightmarish weather on the way up, the return journey was a real pleasure; set the cruise control to the speed limit, program the Sat-Nav for home, light up the ipod and let the car do the rest. Fresh as a daisy, even after 100 non-stop miles.

Has the 2014 Juke improved over the 2012 model? Well, it’s hard to say. Because the 2012 test-drive was like nothing I had driven before, and the 2014 test-drive wasn’t - because I’d driven it in 2012! There are lots of ways you can ‘personalise’ your Juke involving bits of chrome, piano black paint, force red or even ‘orange racing’ mirror caps, side sills, headlight rings etc. ‘Orange Racing’ headlamp rings ……. Yuk!

But lots of different wheel options; have a look at the brochure and customise your Juke to reflect your personality. Mine would be arctic white with plain white alloys. Please.

If you’re ‘iffing and butting’ about your new car, then the Juke is most definitely worth not just a look, but a proper test drive. Contact Westover Nissan at 01202 532100 and don’t forget to tell them that you saw it in the Purbeck Gazette!

Pothole Advice

A safety organisation issues pothole advice as risks from Britain’s poorly-maintained roads increase

ROAD SAFETY and breakdown recovery specialist GEM Motoring Assist is warning motorists of the continued danger posed by the UK’s poorly-maintained roads, and is urging the government to take action to clear the disgraceful £10 billion maintenance backlog that has been allowed to build up. Recent figures from the World Economic Forum show the UK dropping from 24th to 28th place for the quality of its road infrastructure, putting it behind Chile, Cyprus and Croatia - and on a par with the southern African state of Namibia.

GEM chief executive David Williams MBE said: “The UK road network is in an appalling state. This has an enormous financial impact on motorists, who most of the time must bear the cost of repairs to paintwork, suspension and tyres. Those who can’t afford these repairs risk making journeys in vehicles that are potentially unsafe.

“Our telephone lines continue to be very busy with enquiries from members with questions about pothole damage to their vehicles, so we are today offering advice that will not only keep them safe on their journeys but will also help them deal with the consequences of pothole damage.”

Stay safe on the road

Always be aware of dangerous potholes on your journeys. If necessary, plan to use routes with fewer or no potholes.

Remember to keep your distance from the car in front. Motorists will often brake or swerve suddenly if they have spotted a pothole too late, so ensure there is a big enough gap to allow you to slow down safely. Make sure you stick to the speed limit and slow down on smaller roads and residential streets where potholes may be prevalent. Hitting a pothole at speed will cause much more damage to your vehicle.

Never swerve to avoid a pothole; always slow down or stop completely if necessary, checking that there are no cars close behind you. Drive over the pothole slowly or manoeuvre around it if it’s safe to do so.

Get something done

Help your local authority and report any dangerous potholes that are

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causing problems in the area. After all, your local authority cannot be held liable for a defect it is not aware of.

Yo ur local council website will guide you to the right procedure for reporting a pothole.

Main roads are the responsibility of the Highways Agency, not the local authority, so call them on 0300 123 5000. This number is available 24 hours a day.

Build a case

If you believe you have a valid claim for pothole damage, make sure you are able to give the exact location of the offending pothole.

Note when you went through it, what direction you were travelling and approximately how wide and deep you believe it to have been.

If it’s safe, stop and examine the pothole. Take photographs if you can, but don’t put yourself or anyone else at risk in the process.

Obtain quotes for any repairs that may be required. Keep copies of these, along with receipts and invoices, if they form part of your claim. Then write to the local authority, including all the details and requesting a settlement of your claim.

Expect a rejection, as the local authority will most likely explain that it has a system of regular inspection and repair. But you can check what the council may be liable for, and can take steps to make sure it is carrying out the system it claims to have in place.

If you feel your case is strong enough, it may be worth getting legal advice or taking your case to the small claims court. However, be aware that it could end up being a lengthy and costly process.

Follow GEM on Twitter @MotoringAssist for the latest industry news.

The Gourmet Peddler

Purbeckian Garlic Soup

It’s really great to chat to people who have read this column and talk about the recipes. “Oh I did like your recipe for bacon jam” they might say. I then ask “how did it go, how long did you cook it for?”... “Oh no, I didn’t cook it, I just read it”. At first this felt a bit weird, but then I rarely cook anything after watching a TV cookery show. However one reason/hastily formed excuse (delete as appropriate) that I hear is that the ingredients are too expensive. So this month we have a recipe that anyone with legs can afford. You will need your legs to get beyond the supermarket and into the wild. Any old legs will do, just so long as they reach the ground. If your legs don’t reach the ground, I’m afraid you’re stuffed and will just have to hover around instead. It has become tough for many in these times of recession, caused by our government allowing banks to run rackets that blew up, yet are bailed out by the billion time and time again at your expense under the incredibly pernicious idea that it’s by cutting benefits and taxing normal people that they will make up the loss. And I should know; Living on the Isle of Purbeck I have found myself falling into one of the unfortunate economic categories. It really is somewhat embarrassing... I am “second homeless”. So it came to be, with another deadline hours away, only one home, and a bike, and my legs. I found myself foraging for wild garlic leaves in a place cunningly named “garlic woods”. Then stopping for refreshments at the Square and Compass where I picked up some very ripe camembert cheese from Owen The Cheesemonger and discovered that this was lovely with a pinch of pepper and when wrapped in wild garlic. Don’t worry that is not the recipe. That really would be pushing my luck: grab some leaves and go to the pub!

What you need to know about wild garlic: grows from March to later in the year (vague, eh?), looks like the green leaves in the picture (right), grows on the wooded north side of many Purbeck hills. “Watch out where the huskies go and don’t you eat that yellow snow”, the leaves and flowers

are edible. To confirm you have the right plant, crush it in your hand and it will have a strong smell of garlic. Excellent at repelling gothic chicks. If you don’t know what you are doing, don’t do it, don’t eat anything you find, that would be stupid.

Ingredients: a bunch of wild garlic leaves, some normal garlic, butter, chicken stock, old bread, eggs. That lot costs about 50p.

What to do:

Tear up the old bread, flap in a little olive oil, place in a soup bowl, and pop in the oven until crispy and golden. You’ve just made your own croutons. Meanwhile... Chop the normal garlic cloves and soften (don’t fry) in butter in a saucepan.

Wash and chop the garlic leaves, lob them in.

Add the chicken stock.

Give it 10 minutes on a low simmer.

Gently crack a few eggs into the soup and poach them until the white is set but yokes are runny. Splashing soup over the top helps the top cook.

Don’t forget the bowl in the oven!

Pour soup over the hot crusty croutons in the bowl, ladle the egg on.

Garnish with chopped raw garlic leaves or flowers.

Eat it.

Tweaks: adding onion, mushrooms, or yesterday’s roast chicken will be good.

Purbeck Products

By Hester Viney

SPurbeck Products - Maggie Sutton

ometimes people evolve into local producers, more out of an instinct to create than a drive to sell. Maggie Sutton is one such producer, a relative newcomer to the markets.

“I’ve always cooked” she says. “Purbeck Products markets gave me the focus I needed”.

After moving to the area as a teacher in 2001, Maggie retired a few years ago. Her new freedom made her available to meet the demand for good quality catering at Purbeck Cottages, Renscombe, so she began the Farm Cottage Kitchen.

“I started off doing hampers and cooking for guests” she says, “but I was working from home and after a while I realised it wasn’t ideal” So she took the plunge and now shares a unit at Rempstone Barns with Emily Strange. “It was a bigger deal then - I had to up my production instead of just dabbling”.

Output for the holiday cottages keeps her very busy in the summer, supplying guests with seasonal menus at a fixed cost, served on white china. It’s like a posh meals on wheels, I suggest - “Yes!” she laughs, “it is a bit; it’s good hearty food after a day out on the hills, delivered to the door. The idea is to make staying in a pleasure”.

To keep Maggie ticking over year round, the markets have been ideal. After meeting Paul Lowden at a party where they both catered, she now supplies Wilkswood Farm Shop too. It was Phil Samways, a neighbour in the village of Acton where she lives, who suggested Maggie join our team of stallholders.

As well as giving her a regular outlet to sell her food, the markets have opened up a new social scene. “The Purbeck Producers are very gregarious, they’re good fun and they really help each other”. She cooks whatever takes her fancy, from quiches, pies and sausage rolls, to brownies and traditional cakes, “it depends on the weather!” she says. Of course the ingredients are local, using eggs from friends, apples from the garden, meat from Wilkswood or Phil Samways. So far the feedback has been glowing. Is she tempted to expand?

“Oh it’s early days” says Maggie, “I’ve got two children, and grandchildren on the way, but never say never”. With her energy and enthusiasm for all things food and the quality of local ingredients, I’m sure we’ll be seeing more of what Maggie has to offer.

Easter Holiday Events

Easter Egg decorating workshops for kids: 7th, 9th, 15th, 17thApril Easter Chocolate workshop for adults: 12thApril Shop & Café open 7 days a week (including Easter weekend)

Find us at: Cocoa Central, Commercial Road, Swanage Workshop bookings: 01929 422748 www.chococo.co.uk

Chococo’s chocolates offer unique Easter gifts for all the family, from a wide selection of Easter eggs, including their ever-popular Jurassic Coast Dinosaur Eggs and new giant eggs, to fine chocolates filled with fresh local flavours, Easter hens and new giant bunnies, all handmade in-house with origin chocolate from Venezuela, Grenada and the Dominican Republic.

The Chococo shop and café will be open throughout the Easter weekend, with improved seating and a kids’ play zone upstairs!

Chococo will also be running Easter egg decorating workshops for both children and adults over the Easter holidays. The children’s workshops last one hour and are suitable for kids age 7-12ish to decorate, assemble and wrap their own Easter egg.

The workshops cost £12.50 per head and will take place at 11am and 2pm on 7th, 9th, 15th and 17th April. They are also running an adult workshop at 2pm on Saturday 12th April for the grownups to release their inner child to decorate an Easter egg and also make fresh cream truffles to put inside it, for the ultimate Easter gift. These workshops are very popular, so you will need to book in their shop or on 01929 422748 to guarantee a place.

Wareham Beerex!

The 21st Wareham Beerex arrives on Easter Friday 18th April. First held in the Town Hall in 1994, it was Wareham Round table who created the first event and Ex Round Tablers known as 41 club in Wareham have happily continued the event after the local Round Table came to a close in 2012.

This year our main chosen charity is The Rex Cinema in Wareham, a local not for profit organisation. The Rex will receive at least 50% of surplus proceeds raised from the event. Beers will come from far and wide, including Scotland. The theme will be based on film names to link in with the Rex Cinema charity. As always, there will be a good range to choose from with diverse tastes and strengths including a number of Ciders which also are proving most popular at our Festival.

This year we will have a free competition at the Festival for our Film named beers to guess the years the films were released with a prize based on a cinema theme. On the Saturday night, we will be offering £20 tickets to include entry and your beers for the evening. We will also be making surplus beer available for take away at a cost of £1 per pint subject to availability upon closure of the evening, so remember to bring in your own container if you wish.

As in past years, this event could not happen without the kind and generous support of all of our sponsors. Often, they have donated without any immediate or obvious expectation of business from doing so, but more because they wish to support a local event with a charitable cause behind it. We hope all of our sponsors who attend the event will enjoy themselves so much they will be back with us as a sponsor again next time!

We are very grateful to ‘Accidently Injured’ who are providing our biggest single sponsorship requirement for the 2nd year running for the production of the tasting glasses. These can be retained as a souvenir of your attendance.

This year the beers are being brought to Wareham with the aid of The Flying Firkin and the ciders by Isle of Purbeck Brewery and the Square and Compass. Thanks to Floss Gould at Bullock and Lees and the local Tourist Information Office for serving as our local ticket outlets. Tickets are also available on line at:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/wareham-easter-beerex-2014tickets-9753036595. Martin Cypher, Chairman Wareham Beerex, 2014.

FRACKING Facts more boring than frightening

With the worry of the possibility of fracking for shale gas coming to Purbeck, locals have been asking questions about what fracking is exactly, and which, if any, of the frightening stories banded about are true.

An‘anti-fracking’ group was set-up in Swanage recently, and set about distributing leaflets. The leaflets stated that fracking results in ‘disease and trauma, adults and children, earthquakes and tremors’ and more.... Frightening stuff, and we’d love to know exactly how fracking brings about ‘adults and children’! We have given room on our letters pages to correspondence bemoaning the ‘horrors’ of fracking over the past few months, and now we need to even the balance. In light of all the scare stories available and as we celebrate ‘World Earth Day’ on April 22nd, we did a bit of research and decided that the best person to write about fracking was someone with actual, qualified, working knowledge, who was also highly respected within the industry itself.

We managed to convince one of the world-recognised industry leaders, Chris Faulkner (pictured, right), to write for you to explain in simple terms what fracking is and what the recognised risks are. In other words, to provide some facts. Our thanks go to Chris for his time and effort. We really appreciate it.

Article below by Chris Faulkner, CEO Breitling Energy Corporation Mr. Faulkner is an outspoken advocate for safer and greener practices in the oil and gas industry.

Mr Faulkner recently attended the UK Shale Gas Conference in London in March 2014, where he was a speaker.

Chris Faulkner is the Founder, President and CEO of Breitling Energy Corporation (BECC), based in Dallas, Texas.

Named Industry Leader of the Year in 2013 by the Oil & Gas Awards for the Southwest Region and recognized in the “Dallas Who’s Who in Energy” in 2012 and 2013.

Scare tactics work. That’s why politicians, zealots and anti-anything groups use them. The latest round of scary stories now revolves around an oil and gas extraction method called hydraulic fracturing, or, more terrifyingly, “fracking.”

Why all the hubbub? Well, combined with horizontal drilling techniques, fracking has been used to produce the huge energy boom in the United States. Fracking took the US from an energy importer to an energy producer and even exporter in less than a decade, created millions of jobs, poured billions into the American economy, helped reduce unemployment despite the recent recession, and is bringing manufacturing back.

And now, on the heels of learning that the United Kingdom also contains immense shale gas reserves, Parliament is seriously considering whether to allow companies to drill and frack in the UK. This has environmental groups worried and blanketing communities with all manner of ugly claims coming out of the US fracking experience.

When dealing with fearsome tales, it helps to have the facts.

Fracking 101

A million and a half wells have been fracked in the US since 1947. Now 95 percent of wells in the US are fracked:

Fracking is performed after wells have been drilled down to levels of as much as 7,000 to 15,000 feet. The drinking water aquifer is only 300 feet below the surface.

Before any mixture of water, chemical and sand is used to fracture the shale, the well is encased in multiple layers of steel and concrete to ensure that the fracking mixture is delivered directly to the shale layers targeted for fracturing.

The fracking mixture, as well as the released oil or natural gas, are then sucked back up through the protected wellbore and filtered for re-use.

Unusable byproducts are stored and/or disposed of by deep well injection.

The fracking mixture is 99.95% water and sand and 0.05% chemical. Most companies now post the chemical components, and most have eliminated potentially harmful chemicals in favor of food-grade additives. See www. fracfocus.org for chemical disclosures. Some companies are also testing alternatives that use little to no water.

There isn’t a single reputable study or verified claim of environmental damage due to fracking – no groundwater pollution, no serious earthquakes, no other impacts on the environment.

What About the Scary Stories?

The stories are just that: stories.

The anti-fracking folks have done a really good job at getting these horrifying, iconic images of flaming tap water into the media, and the media just loves them.

But here’s the truth: methane has always been found in drinking water sources all around the world, because layers and layers of methane occur naturally along many aquifers. The most infamous scene of a homeowner lighting tap water was fully debunked. There was, indeed, methane in that home’s water, but it was there because the homeowner had drilled the water well too deep. It had nothing to do with fracking.

As for earthquakes, scientific consensus is neatly summed up by Stanford Physicist and Department of Energy’s shale gas advisory panel member Mark Zoback, who says that the seismic energy released by fracking is about the same as “a gallon of milk falling off a kitchen counter.”

There is an energy-producing process that does, indeed, cause more serious earthquake activity. It isn’t fracking; it’s geothermal. America’s largest geothermal facility, north of San Francisco, caused 30,000 seismic events in three years. Most of these were minimal, but more than 300 of them registered above a magnitude of 2.0 and six of them registered at least 4.0.

As for other claims against fracking, The Royal Society’s “Shale Gas Extraction in the UK” report found low, manageable risks associated with the practice.

Even environmental groups have tried and failed to come up with actual evidence to support any connection to the many wild claims. For example, the Pacific Institute, a nonprofit organization whose stated purpose is to “create a healthier planet and sustainable communities,” attempted in June 2012 to verify numerous anecdotal accounts of polluted water sources and/or adverse health effects caused by suspected fracking pollutants. However, the Pacific Institute instead found that there was no credible data to support the various claims.

When it comes to fracking, remember to get a dose of the facts after being exposed to the scary bed time stories. Stacks of data from many credible university, government and private researchers generally agree: it’s not the bogeyman the environmentalists are making it out to be.

Durlston Nature Nursery

We are delighted to announce that registrations for the Children’s Nature Nursery at Durlston are now open! Probably the only nursery in the country with panoramic sea views, the nursery will be situated within the former Visitor Centre as part of the development of the new Learning Centre. This intimate nursery combines a beautiful classroom and a kitchen with an outdoor area surrounded by the National Nature Reserve.

Open all year from 8am – 5pm for children 2 ½ - 5 year-olds, the nursery will follow the Kids Love Nature Approach, a unique approach for early years education developed by its founders Ben Walliman and Alex Shepherd. Ben and Alex explained:

“Our mission is ‘to connect children and families to nature’ to set them out on a journey that will last them a lifetime.

By recognising the importance of children experiencing the richness of the natural environment, an experience that for many children is becoming too rare, we connect children to nature whilst providing the security of an outstanding nursery. We complement outdoor learning with a high quality indoor nursery environment that enables all aspects of early

childhood to flourish. Our approach draws on the best aspects of early years practice taking on our inspiration from the Danish Forest Kindergartens, Montessori and Reggio Emilia. We do this through being completely child centred in everything we do allowing children the time and space to become absorbed into their learning.”

The founders will be hosting a ‘Parent Day and Tour’ event on the 29th March (10am-3pm).The event includes many activities for families and young children, a viewing to showcase the facilities and outdoor area as well as a prize draw for a registered child to win a ‘Free Place for 6 months’.

It’s a great opportunity to meet some of the practitioners and ask any questions. Please RSVP to durlston@kidslovenature. co.uk indicating name and number of adults and children attending.

Children’s Nature Nursery at Durlston has two Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ sister nurseries located at Avon Heath Country Park and Lymington.

For more information on how to register your child please contact:

e: durlston@kidslovenature.co.uk

t: 01909-505018 - w: www.kidslovenature.co.uk

Hi!My name is Joey and I’m a 6 year old male German Shepherd X who is very affectionate and loving.

I enjoy running about, so I’m looking for a fairly active home where I’ll get the energy and time that I deserve.

I can get a little worried when I’m left by myself so I’m looking for an understanding, patient home where I will get the time and love I need to help me overcome this and become a more confident chap. I also love to play and am often found with a ball or squeaky toy in my mouth. I can live with other dogs, possibly a cat and children aged 15+ .

At Lincoln Farm, Dorset, please contact 01929 471340 or email lf@margaretgreenanimalrescue.org. uk for more details.

Joey is pictured, left. Could he join your family?

Ironing Out The Past

By John Garner

The other day I stumbled upon Flower’s Barrow. Literally. Not literally in the teenage ‘I was literally dying’ opposite sense of the word. But having just wheezed my way up the hill from Arish Mell I tripped over a small pile of stones and on recovery, remembered where I was. For those that don’t know it, Flower’s Barrow sits on the cliffs above Worbarrow bay and if you’ve ever been there you can fully understand why the Iron age folks decided to plant a Hill fort there all those years ago.

A fair bit of their ancient settlement has been reclaimed by the sea and the novice Iron age searcher would probably need to know it was, indeed in the past, an Iron age settlement to notice it, but when you are furnished with this information the area takes on an even more interesting aspect. And you are furnished with this information, should you want to be, by the noticeboards dotted about in the telly tubby style remains.

Built 2500 years ago, the inhabitants are clearly long gone as are the more recent inhabitants of Tyneham village, which it overlooks, but that’s another story. Life during the Iron age was somewhat different to life now, you’ll be unsurprised to hear. Although possibly not quite so different as we might think as history tells us that people seem to have spent quite a lot of their time varying their diets, improving their homes and following the latest fashions. That little lot accounts for about 90% of today’s TV and media schedules so maybe not a million miles away from now really. A typical conversation might have gone as follows.

‘I see her up the hill’s been tarting up her place again.’

‘I know. Who does she think she is with her pastel shaded wicker walls?’

‘And did you see what she was wearing yesterday?’

‘Totally inappropriate. A sheepskin mini skirt at this time of year.’

‘Mutton dressed as lamb if you ask me.’

(This last comment is noted as being the first recorded attempt at an iron-age joke. Well it would have been if this had been recorded.)

Flower’s Barrow had been a Hill fort for quite a while before the Romans took it over. A small family may have lived there but more likely it was, as suggested, a fort to ward people off or to defend something so people probably actually lived elsewhere. Or it could have been used as a staging post as the Celts invaded place after place.

The Romans did some brilliant things to various parts of Britain. They were an advanced and generally very giving nation as empire builders go,

so what followed seems a little churlish to say the least. What the Brits did after the Romans had gone, in a stupendous act of cutting of one’s nose to spite one’s face, was ignore all the splendid technological advances the Romans brought with them and go back to living in the equivalent of mud huts for a number of centuries. That’ll teach them pesky Latins.

Sentry duty at the fort would, no doubt, have been long periods of boredom followed by intense periods of absolute terror. A log might include: Day 1. Nothing to report. Day 2. Still nothing to report. 3. Yawn, yawn, yawn. 4. Day 4. Bollocks! It’s the Romans. Leg it. Or more likely rip off all your clothes, cover yourself in dye and run at the enemy wailing like a banshee as limited historical evidence suggests this was their preferred modus operandi when confronted with an invading force.

The Romans also brought lots of fantastic food and wine with them and introduced agriculture to the south. Farming looking out over the ocean sounds like a quite blissful thing to do, but I’m sure life was hard at the time for the iron-age folk, especially before the Romans turned up with their marble villas and en-suite bathrooms.

Communal lunches were pretty basic affairs judging by some of the remains found including remnants of horses (yet another similarity with life today, although I’d imagine iron-age man knew he was eating horsemeat, whilst for us it’s often slipped into our food masquerading as something else). Very few fish remains have been found at settlements on the south coast, which might surprise you or it might not.

Now where the Celtic model gets really interesting, that’s if you’re not completely gripped already, is when we look at their childcare arrangements. They were more inclined to ship their kids out to other family members than to bring them up themselves. Often grandparents took over the rearing of the children as I suppose the parents were out fighting, hunting or grubbing around for berries and tending to their crops. And I’d imagine if you inhabited a Hill fort you’d have to do your fair share of standing on the highest point and looking out for alien invaders. Because they loved a good rumble did the iron-age Celts. Either between clans or in fact with anyone that looked at them in a slightly funny way. Loved to get stuck in and were particularly fond of beheading their opponents to celebrate victory, it seems.

A man was not a man unless he could show off a number of decapitated bonces at the entrance to his property. The iron-age equivalent to today’s welcome mat. When it became time to settle down and look after the grandkids, the Celts often named their houses such things as ‘Dundecapitating’ and ‘Dunpaintingmyselfblueandrunningnakedattheenemyscreaming’. Or they would have done if they could have written. They were generally too busy kicking off to bother with school.

So you can see that whilst Flowers’ Barrow has a very pleasant aspect and affords a very much needed breathing spot for the lazy walker, there is also a world of ancient history right under your feet.

To sum up. The iron-age. Good if you liked a punch-up. A bit better than the bronze-age. Can’t really hold a candle to Roman times.

More amazing social history from the man who knows… very little about amazing social history.

lants for patio pots and containers are extremely good value and flower repeatedly throughout summer. Each year flower breeders bring out new varieties so there is always something new and exciting

Plant your tubs in late April and May so that your display is ready to show off from late May onwards. Get over to Holme for Gardens and choose from their amazing patio plant selection. Two of my favourite patio flowers are the Crazy Daisy series (Argyranthemum) and perennial Salvias, both of Choose containers that have drainage holes. If you are re-using old pots wash them out. Put some broken crocks or gravel at the bottom

Gazette Gardening with Simon Goldsack FEMALE GARDENER

of the container for drainage and then fill with fresh compost such as Multipurpose or Tub and Basket. It is also good to add some water retaining gel to the compost which helps the compost keep moist for longer. After planting, water in really well with the first watering. Check your pots daily but do not overwater. Protect from late spring frosts. After a few weeks when the plants have rooted through the compost they will require watering more often. From midJune start feeding with a high potash feed such as Tomato food. All you need now is a little sunshine and a pot of tea or a glass of wine to relax and enjoy the fruits of your labour!

April Tasks

• Watch out for late frosts and have the fleece ready to cover tender plants

• Sow hardy annuals directly into flowering position on prepared ground

• Feed beds and borders with an appropriate fertiliser such as chicken manure pellets to replace nutrients washed out by excessive rain

• Sow new lawns and repair bare patches

• Prune spring flowering shrubs immediately after flowering if required

• Pinch out the growing tips of sweet peas to produce more shoots and flowers

• Plant out young vegetable seedlings and plants as soon as the soil has warmed a little

Pictures: Crazy Daisy Rose, Salvia Midnight Blue, Planted patio containers

Purbeck’s 1st Literary Festival

There is no doubt that the first Purbeck Literary Festival has been an unqualified success. The brainchild of Emma Fernandez who runs Violet PR in North Swanage, aided and abetted by Lyn McCulloch, local author and co-owner of The Limes Hotel in Park Rd.

Thanks for support are owed to Jill Blanchard at the bookshop, Vicky Angel who runs Gulliver’s bookshop in Wimborne, and of course the hosting venues. For aspiring writers there was plenty to choose from including a beginners’ workshop hosted by Purbeck Arts Club, who also hosted a self-publishing workshop for those wishing to unravel the secrets of the burgeoning e-book market.

There was a short story workshop at The Limes, and even one on how to produce your own comics! Sadly I missed High Tea with bestselling romantic novelist Katie Fforde at The Grand, and the Tea Poet at Worth Tearooms, but was hugely entertained by a panel of deadly dames in the observatory room at Durlston Castle who gave us an insight into the world of crime fiction.

It was enticingly informal, much like attending a dinner party hosted by the successors of Agatha Christie. One of the dames confided that when asked by a rather condescending gentleman what she did to pass the day replied “I murder people for money” and was rewarded by his prompt departure.

The library hosted a talk on one-time resident and writer Jocasta Innes by her son Jason Goodwin, not only an author himself but also a very accomplished speaker who could choose any subject at random and still be entertaining.

Cathy Veale Exhibition

Purbeck artist, Cathy Veale has once again had her much sort after work selected for the ‘Royal Institute of Painters in Watercolour’ exhibition at the Mall Galleries in London in April (2nd-19th) alongside Britain’s leading watercolour artists.

Her paintings are described as skilful, evocative, original and exciting which she paints with obvious affinity with her medium and subject matter. Often painting large watercolours, some measuring around a metre in height or width; this gives considerable impact to the onlooker and her seascapes have often been described as looking ‘wet’ like the sea itself and having a real sense of luminosity.

You can visit Cathy’s website www.cathyveale.co.uk and view her work at her next exhibition from Sat 24th May to Sat 31st June during Purbeck Art Weeks, at the Catholic Hall, Rempstone Road, Swanage.

The arrival of Jocasta and her lover, alternative novelist Joe Potts, must have rocked Swanage like a bohemian barnstorm in the seventies with their funny-smelling cigarettes, flagons of cider and hippy lifestyle. Jason amusingly juxtaposes middle-class prep school life in London with ‘daddy’ to sharing a fleabitten sofa with the dog in Ulwell Road at weekends.

The Crows Nest pub wined and dined us royally for an evening with David Leadbetter, author of Paranormal Purbeck which I reviewed a couple of months ago. David gave us a brilliantly spooky evening, but to my dismay refused to be drawn on places he had unequivocally been ‘warned off’ mentioning in his book. He plans a new book for February 2015 on walking in Purbeck but with a slant on natural and ancient history.

If I am allowed a favourite event it has to be Julie Cohen’s workshop on writing sex scenes held… where else but Love Cake? Six years ago Julie, from Maine in the US, was teaching in a girl’s catholic boarding school when she experienced her epiphany and began writing full time, sometimes under the exotic pseudonym of Electra Shepherd.

Following a short descriptive exercise involving the languorous consumption of chocolate she declared Swanage to be her best class so far, which must be down to something they put in the water, and luckily there were just enough men present to prevent the evening lapsing into a girly gossip on how men’s prowess on the written page rarely reflects reality. I have to say, her only failure was in convincing those present that her inspiration was not wholly personal.

The Litfest is intended to become an annual event, let us hope it does.

Jason Goodwin entertains at Swanage Library

Julie Cohen packs them in at Love Cake

SWANAGE CONSERVATIVE CLUB

Open to members, guests and affiliated members

EVENTS FORAPRIL

Thur Sat Sat Sun Sat Fri Sat Wed

- Tea Dance with Conmen and guests (2pm - 4pm)

- Roy Charles entertains

- Second Time Duo entertain

- Fun Quiz

- Lucy Harvey entertains

- Sports Tournament Night

- Matt Summer entertains

- Fun Quiz

Bingo every Tuesday

Thursday - Evening Meals available Sunday Roasts - booking advisable FUNCTION ROOM AVAILABLE TO HIRE

Telephone: 423600 or 422310 for further enquiries.

For further information on the Club, see also: www.swanageconservativeclub.co.uk

Mendelssohn’s Elijah

Over 220 choir members will sing a dramatic plea for rain. Proof of God’s omnipotence to a desert people. A timely concert!

On Saturday 26th.April the Dorset Guild of Singers will perform this work with the Dorset County Orchestra at Lighthouse, Poole. Dorchester, Swanage, Wareham and Beaminster choirs sing with professional soloists and the Dorset County Orchestra under the baton of the effervescent Simon Lole, past Director of Music at Salisbury Cathedral.

The hero is Elijah, the prophet of God, isolated in the kingdom of Ahab, “a king more evil than all the kings before him” and married to Jezebel, priestess of Baal. A potent brew. (she met a bad end ).

The choral work portrays the dramatic battle for the soul of the Israelites and for Elijah’s vindication. The people are fickle and reject Elijah. Drought stalks the land. A contest between Baal’s priests and Elijah to ignite a slain offering for rain ends in Baal’s impotence, the slaying of his priests and with God refreshing the earth. A quiet day at the office.

The music describes despair by both the starving people and the rejected prophet. A wrathful, vengeful chorus cry for his death. Elijah then sings a sublime aria asking God to show his people the true way. An out-pouring of rain and thanks are the climax of much wailing and gnashing of teeth.

Drama and serenity are both guaranteed.

Advance tickets from Liz Roberts on 01929 481419 for £13, or from the Lighthouse, Poole 0844 406 8666 for £15.00

Pictured: Sofia Larsson, soprano soloist.

Wareham Whalers

Wareham Whalers shanty band is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, and is warming up for the big event by kicking off with a tour of Wareham in various pubs on Saturday 5th April, 12 – 2pm. They would be delighted to see you so please come along and experience their unique style of shanty singing.

Other ‘warm up’ venues on their 2014 anniversary schedule are as follows: 4th May: Lytchett Matravers May Fest, 24th May: Exmouth Shanty Festival, 30th May – 1st June: St Vaast (Brittany), 13 – 15 June: Falmouth Shanty Festival, 21st June: Poole Harry Paye Day, 28th June: Folk on the Quay at Poole. The Whalers’ 10th Anniversary gig will be held in the garden of the Quay Inn, Wareham, PM on Sunday 29th June, with guests. Note your ship’s logs now, me hearties!

Rod Curtis, Chairman, Wareham Music Festival Committee

If you’re having trouble looking after your feet, you’re not alone. Age UK reports that, nearly one in three older people, can’t cut their own toenails. Foot care problems tend to happen if you’re less mobile than you used to be, particularly if you have difficulty bending down. Poor eyesight can also make it harder for you to look after your feet.

If you can’t look after your feet, you’re more likely to develop problems such as:

corns and calluses

heel pain or arch pain cracked skin

in growing toe nails

fungal infections (athlete’s foot)

blisters

bunions

Our foot health professional –Sally Roberts is here to help. What is a Foot Health Professional?

The Foot Health Professional keeps peoples’ feet healthy and gives advice on day to day foot care to ensure they are well kept into old age. As people are living longer more care is required to keep them comfortable. The conditions that a Foot Health Professional would treat include corns,

calluses, warts and fungal infection etc. They also carefully trim nails and prevent nail problems developing and check for cracks and breaks in the skin and inflammation such as blisters.

Treatment also includes looking for signs of infection like nail fungus or other obvious early problems.

For more information please phone Swanage Therapy Centre on 01929 426506 or visit our website at www.swanagetherapycentre. co.uk.

Matron’s Round

Our Local Hospitals’ Monthly Column

Hello again from Swanage and Wareham Hospitals!

This month I thought that I would tell you about a Purbeck-wide service that is available at our hospitals. The Women’s Health Clinic provides a welcome service for women of all ages suffering with urinary urge or stress incontinence, urinary frequency and problems related to pelvic floor muscle weakness. The clinic is open one afternoon every fortnight and referral to attend is usually made through your GP or consultant.

Gynaecological and pregnancy related problems can include:

- Back pain

- Pelvic girdle pain

- Passing urine more frequently than 6-8 times a day

- An urgency to pass urine and leaking on the way to the toilet

- An inability to hold urine whilst coughing or sneezing

- Rehabilitation following gynaecological surgery

- Bowel urgency or incontinence

- Pelvic organ prolapse

- Sexual dysfunction

As many as one in three women will experience Women’s Health problems during their lifetime but often they are too embarrassed to

Usui Reiki Training Courses

Allyson Williamson is an experienced Reflexologist and Complementary Therapist, offering treatments in both Swanage and Wareham. She is registered with the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council, having met their stringent standards for membership.

Allyson is also an Usui Reiki Teacher, running regular training courses in Swanage. Having herself experienced the benefits of Reiki, she wanted to help others to use this gentle but effective form of healing for themselves.

Originally from Japan, the Usui System of Reiki was first taught in the United States in the middle of the 20th century. From here it spread throughout the world and several million people now practice it every day.

Although the teachings of Reiki are relatively new to the West, Reiki’s origins stretch back to the founder of Buddhism, 563BC – 483 BC. However, the use of Reiki today is open to everyone and not governed by any particular belief system.

Although Reiki has developed to become a recognised therapy, the original intention was for self-use. It is a simple, direct and accessible form of energy healing used to help bring balance and peace to body, mind and spirit. Many people undertake the first level of training (First Degree or Shoden) purely for self-use or to use on their friends and family.

On the Usui Reiki First Degree training, you will learn about the origins of Reiki, the basic concepts, an introduction to meditation techniques and how to use it.

Courses are usually run with 2-4 students to allow plenty of time for personal attention and practical support, although individual training is available.

Please contact Allyson on 07977 519141 if you would like more information or to arrange a Reiki Taster Session if you have not experienced Reiki before.

seek help. If their symptoms develop following childbirth they can even believe that this is normal.

These problems can lead to women developing their own coping strategies such as visiting the toilet more often, drinking less fluids with the idea of eliminating the frequency, making mental notes of where every toilet is in town, avoiding ‘high risk’ activities such as exercise and relying on pads, which becomes an expensive solution to the problem. However, with some specialist advice and treatment, the majority of these women are able to get back on track.

Our unique service provides confidential one-to-one sessions with our Women’s Health physiotherapist Louise Pearce, where treatment includes dietary and health education, bladder training, pelvic floor muscle re-education and core stability exercises.

Treatment is tailored to help reduce any embarrassment or discomfort women may be experiencing whilst at the same time improve and/ or restore function.

If you recognise and are experiencing any of these symptoms, you now know where to come!

Until next time, take care. Matron Jane

Ytime as you won’t have to queue to collect your repeat prescriptions from the surgery. Instead, your GP will send it electronically direct to your pharmacy. This also offers you more choice about where to get your medicines from because they can be collected from a pharmacy near to where you live, work or shop.

You need to choose a place for your GP to electronically send your prescription to. This is called nomination. To nominate a pharmacy or dispensing appliance contractor that offers EPS, or to find out more about

this service, please visit www.cfh.nhs.uk/eps, contact your pharmacy or the practice.

Please note: some medications are non-compliant with EPS, if this is the case then a paper prescription will go to the chemist in the usual way.

Arriving/booking in for an appointment

We would like to encourage patients to use our electronic booking-in screen when arriving for an appointment at the Practice. This will be particularly helpful around the times of the Sit and Wait clinics where large numbers of patients are trying to book in with a receptionist. By using the screen you will help to reduce the queues of patients waiting to book in. The screen is quick and easy to use, however, if you would like some guidance please ask one of the receptionists who will be happy to help you.

Going abroad?

Please allow at least 6-8 weeks before travel dates to enable vaccination cover.

Please note the following changes:

When you phone or call in for an appointment we will ask you to collect a travel form and fill in as much detail as possible.

When complete, hand in to reception, they will then give it to one of our Travel nurses who will decide which vaccination may be needed. We will phone you to make an appointment. (You will only be given an appointment after completion and return of the travel form.)

There will be a charge for some non-NHS travel vaccinations.

Sport Good Show At Appledore And Saltash

Swanage Sea Rowing Club has recently changed its status to that of a ‘Charitable Incorporated Organisation, or CIO, which is a new legal form for a charity which recognises the need for some organisations to function as more complex bodies (that is, more like a business and reflects the many activities that a club is involved in) without some of the burdens associated with being a ‘business’. It means that charities that have assets (such as the Pilot Gigs or the Boathouse) can operate in a less bureaucratic way whilst functioning as a ‘not for profit’ organisation. In practice this will make no difference to the day-to-day management of the Club but will help it secure its long term survival and involvement in the community.

The Regatta season has started with a new event held in Appledore in North Devon. Swanage Sea Rowing Club sent crews to the inaugural National Supervets Pilot Gig Championships at the end of February. This racing regatta is for the growing number of rowers over fifty, with Men’s, Ladies and mixed crews racing with fourteen other clubs from across the south west. The weather played its part with fierce winds gusting on the Torridge River, making rowing extremely tough for all the crews. The mixed crew missed the final by one place whilst the men won their heat – both men’s and ladies crews rowed together in the same race and the ladies beat some mens’ crews in their heat! In the finals the men got an excellent second place whilst the ladies held off Lyme Regis to win the trophy. It was an excellent showing by the club in the first race of the year – unlike rowing at the Olympics, the winds and tides held at regattas on rivers or the sea change throughout the day adding a degree of challenge to the events and making the outcome harder to predict, but it is all part of the fun of sea rowing.

On the 9th March the Club sent three men’s and three women’s crews to the Three Rivers Race held on the Tamar at Saltash in Cornwall, which is seen as one of the first major events of the year, a tough six mile course up and down the Tamar under the classic Brunel bridge, lasting nearly an hour. This year the race took part in bright sunshine and calm conditions leading to fast times and a fair crop of blisters for the crews; a field of

nearly sixty gigs took part where the men’s and women’s results of the A, B and C crews are added together to determine the final placings. Individually, the women’s crews came in 17th, 26th and 49th and the mens’ were 10th, 32nd and 45th, leading to a combined placing of A crews 11th, B crews 26th and the C crews 40th. A well earned improvement on last year’s effort, and a great introduction for our novice rowers .

As the evenings are lengthening the activities of the Club are growing – the Juniors are now meeting on a Monday at 6:30 pm at the Boathouse, to learn the fundamentals of gig rowing, and the Carpenters Cup Club racing will be taking place on the last Friday of each month, a great evening of short races in the bay in mixed crews and a lot of fun.

The events the Club runs and attends require considerable work and planning in advance to prepare the gigs, organise the travel and crews, look after the gigs on their return and so on, and without the dedicated support of many club members taking part these regattas wouldn’t happen as well as they do.

The Club depends on the work of volunteers and supporters, and if you feel you would like to contribute to any aspects of helping with the dayto-day running of the Club, looking after the equipment or maintaining these beautiful wooden gigs please contact Gill Jennings the Club Secretary on 01929 424144.

Barnaby Quaddy.

Pictured are the Ladies heats at the start line.

Swanage Carnival To Host World Record Attempt!

Starting on 28th July 2014, Max Burridge and Skip Graham will be attempting to break 1,000,000 meter solo indoor rowing world records (pictured, in last year’s world record success as part of the Swanage Children in Need Challenge).

The pair aim to finish their epic rows on Saturday the 2nd of August, breaking the existing record of five days, eight hours.

Enter your own name in the record books! Individuals and groups are invited to get involved and set their own challenge or record attempt for the 2014 Swanage Carnival.

Max & Skip broke their first world record in November 2013 as part of the Swanage Challenge, helping raise over £10,000 for ‘Children in Need’.

The pair started rowing together two years ago at Swanage Sea Rowing Club. Back then the club was operating out of a temporary polytunnel. Through generous grants and great community support, the club has now moved into its purposebuilt premises on Prince Albert gardens.

The new boat house will be host venue for the Carnival challenge event. Members of the community from all walks of life are invited to come and take part. No previous rowing experience is required, just a desire to challenge yourselves.

All ages and abilities welcome.

Support Charlie!

Iwas 21 when I joined the Queen’s Royal Irish Hussars in 1963 and I started running when I was 56. I served in the Far East and Germany and finally at Bovington. The Queen’s Royal Hussars Association have two or three reunions throughout the year and it is magical to catch up with so many friends who travel near and far to enjoy the company and comradeship and are always there for each other.

I have run the London Marathon six times and the New York Marathon once. I enjoy running and feel privileged to be running this year’s marathon for Heroes Haven in Swanage. I hope to complete the run in five hours. If you would like to track me, my race number is 28840.

I am hoping to raise £2000, so please dig deep into your pockets to support our injured personnel through Heroes Haven. Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure.

You can donate via Justgiving online at: http://www.justgiving.com/ Charlieallen2014. Alternatively, you can pop a cheque into the Gazette office in Swanage.

Superstar Bethan!

LWhen being considered for the award it was noted that Bethan had overcome a difficult year with health issues to continue with success at the club, and that she has been an inspiration to many people in Purbeck who have donated generously to the club, via Pete (the Walkers Crisps Delivery man!) who walked Hadrian’s Wall, the Rotary Club Christmas Stamps and the Purbeck RallyGroup. Well done Bethan!

Netball Success!

SSwanage Tennis

Fabulous February!

The ladies’ team travelled to Winton on Sunday 23rd where Swanage’s first pairing of Deborah Miller and Meg Mutter soon demonstrated that they were a cut above their Winton opposition. The pair dismissed their opponents quickly and clinically, 6:1, 6:2 and 6:0, 6:1. Swanage’s second pairing of Sam Christmas and Patti Sandham gained a comfortable win over Winton’s second pairing, 6:0, 6:2 but lost in their second match, 3:6, 1:6. A win of 3-1 rubbers to Swanage.

The Mixed 1 team battled against Stourpaine in a windy home match. Swanage’s first pairing of Deborah Miller and Ian Marchant demonstrated showcase tennis. Ian’s performance was exceptional and helped them cruise to victories against both of Stourpaine’s pairings, 6:3, 6:4 and 6:0, 6:0. Meg and Mike dominated both of their matches gaining very comfortable wins over both of the Stourpaine’s pairings, 6:3, 6:2 and 6:3, 6:4. A comprehensive victory for Swanage 4-0.

The Swanage men’s team ventured over to Bournemouth on Wednesday 26th February. The first pairing of Micheal Muir and Jeff Veale won in three sets 6:3, 4:6,7:6 against a very strong, young first pair.

Swanage’s second pairing of Mike Angell and Andy Moore were also triumphant against the Bournemouth number ones winning, 6:3, 6:4. Muir and Veale had an easier match, winning against Bournemouth’s second pairing, 6:3, 6:2.

Angell and Moore battled for two and a half hours in their second match to gain a draw 7:6, 6:7. The Swan’s won by 3 ½ rubbers to ½.

t. Mark's Primary School's Year 5/6 High 5 Netball team are through to the Spring School Games after winning the Purbeck finals on Thursday 13th February (pictured, above). They are delighted to be representing Purbeck at the Canford School in April.

ocal sports star, Bethan Harries (pictured, above), was recently voted Female Athlete of the Year 2013 at her Athletic Club (Bournemouth AC Special Olympics).

Avictory against Cranborne, who have beaten us three times this season. We then followed that with another away game, the Purbeck derby. A brace from Sam Beale and one from Tony Parrot ensured we left Wareham with three points. We also had our first home game in nearly three months against Blandford and despite a lacklustre performance drew the game 2-2.

Having been bottom for the first nine weeks of the season with one win in eleven matches, we have since won eight of the next eleven and recently won our second award of the season for our behaviour. Managers, players and the captain are rated out of ten for their behaviour towards officials and opposing players and there is an award given every five games to the team with the highest score. It’s another great achievement and a nice reward for everyone’s hard work”.

We have just received the cheque from Julian of Country Foods for the Boxing Day Swim (see photo). We would like to thank everyone who took part in the swim and all those who sponsored us. This event is becoming a must in your festive calendar and if you’re not brave

Swanage Football Club Glorious Mud!

enough to swim, then Swanage seafront is the place for your morning Boxing Day stroll.

This is the time of year when we look to next season and to introduce new younger teams. Our mini-kickers (which is for 5-8 year olds) is our feeder into the club. This is where we start to group the 8 year olds together and get them into a team ready to play at U8s & U9s .At this age level no results are logged and playing matches is on a real friendly basis. This is a good way for the children to mix and meet other kids of their age who are not just from their school. This is such an important part of the Club as the likelihood is that these players, once they start playing (however young) will tend to stay playing for us through their whole career.

In early May we are hoping to invite First School children during school hours to Days Park for some coaching sessions and games with the Club’s FA qualified coaches, giving the children and their parents an insight into what is involved should their child be interested in joining a youth team and to meet up with the coaches and some committee members we have here at the Club.

More good news for the Club was when Ks Funworld & Cafe donated a couple of leather sofas and some coffee tables to us. Ks cafe is currently undergoing refurbishment and we were delighted to receive this very kind gift from them.

As regular readers of this article will be aware we now have a girls’ section in the club and the U11 girls had their first league game last week which they went on to win, and our U13s are improving week on week. The Club is delighted to have these girls’ teams and are hoping to go from strength to strength. If anyone would like to help in any way in this important part of our Club please contact our head of girls’ football Becky Travers on 07793-710033 she will be only too pleased to receive your call.

The best way to stay abreast of all things going on at the club is on our website at www.swanagefc.com and the 2 official twitter feeds associated with us @swanagefc and @swanagefcyouth.

COME ON YOU SWANS! John Peacock, Press & Publicity Officer.

The Purbeck Gazette - Proudly Supporting The Swans

Arecord-breaking number of drivers – twenty three in all – signed on for The Dorset Land Rover Club’s second RTV of the year at the Crossways site (near Moreton).

Land Rovers of all types and vintages were competing in the trial – for road-legal vehicles – ranging from a couple of very original Series 2s through to legally ‘tweaked’ Range Rovers.

After all the rain that’s seemingly been falling for months, it was great to get off-road (the DLRC has imposed a voluntary moratorium on greenlaning as part of the club’s ‘Responsible Rural Recreation’ mantra), although like everywhere else, the ground conditions were as challenging as the courses that had been set.

Tow-ropes and winches were put to regular use on more or less every section of the trial – some of which took place in steeply undulating woodland and some of which was set out in a more open sandy quarry area. What looked at first like good, solid ground very rapidly turned into glutinous porridge in places, and some deep water-filled holes posed more than a few problems.

The Dorset Land Rover Club runs three classes of competition at its RTVs (which are held more or less monthly through the year, depending on other events): at Crossways, Trevor Harmer won the Long Wheel Base event in his Range Rover, going clear on five of the ten sections; the Short Wheel Base class was won by Martin Dover (with six ‘clears’) and in the Leaf Sprung class, club Chairman Rog Pardy came first in his unmodified Series 2.

What was especially pleasing was that no fewer than five drivers were making their competitive debut at a DLRC trial, and they all came through unscathed!

The club’s next driving event is an Open Driving Day at Matchams Leisure Park (near Ringwood) on 30th March, and the next RTV is scheduled for the 27th April at Mannington. Further details and information – including how to join The Dorset Land Rover Club - can be found on the club’s website: www.dorsetrover.co.uk

DLRC – CROSSWAYS RTV – 2nd March 2014

Pictured: Martin Dover driving his Defender 90 to victory in the SWB class at The Dorset Land Rover Club’s RTV at Crossways

Swanage Bowls

at the Pavilion Beach Gardens, Northbrook Road.

March marks the end of a successful indoor season and early April launches our new outdoor season with the President’s Coffee morning on 10th. Come and meet us if you’re free. Our Open Days for new bowlers have been set for Saturdays, 26th April and 3rd May at 10.30 am, an ideal opportunity to come along and try your hand. We welcome all ages, but for young bowlers we have a Bursary Fund to help out with initial expense, sponsored by many town businesses. Our last social get together of the winter was a musical quiz evening with ‘Fingers’ Read entertaining us and a hot supper with the bar in full swing. There are many bowling events planned for this summer and we are hoping for glorious weather as last year to enjoy the new canopy (mostly erected by members of the Club) which greatly enhances our outdoor space.

Enquiries as usual to Jean Thomas on 426795.

Spotlight Event Diary

Diary Entries are FREE if your event is FREE. If you charge, then it’s £5 plus VAT per entry, per month. DEADLINE for May is noon 10th Apr

KEY: * = Start time not known or n/a; Ffi = for further information; Sw = Swanage; Wm = Wareham; VH = Village Hall, Telephone code 01929 unless otherwise stated.

APRIL 2014

Tue 1st

* Easter Egg Trail at Corfe Castle It will be fun for the whole family as you take part in an egg-citing hunt for tokens around the castle to claim a chocolate prize. Supported by Cadbury.

10:00 FREE Apple Giveaway - Swanage! To publicise the launch of the newest Apple iPad, staff from Southampton will be at Swanage Pier from 10am until 10.45am. The first thirty residents with a BH19 postcode will be given a free apple. Please remember to bring proof of identity/postcode with you on the day!

11:00 FREE Apple Giveaway - Wareham! To publicise the launch of the newest Apple iPad, staff from Southampton will be at Wareham Quay from 11am until 11.45am. The first thirty residents with a BH20 postcode will be given a free apple. Please remember to bring proof of identity/postcode with you on the day!

19:30 Wareham Camera Club Meets at Parish Hall, Wareham “League Competition No 5”. Visitors welcome. Contact Roger Starling on 01929 553822

19:30 ‘Emily - The Making of a Militant Suffragette’ At The Mowlem Theatre Swanage. Tickets £12, concessions £10, accompanied children £5.

Wed 2nd

10:00 Swanage Walking Group Meet at free car park in centre of Bere Regis for a walk via Black Hill, Turners Puddle, Throop and Kite Hill. Ffi 01929 422554.

12:30 Wareham Christian Aid Lent Lunches At LSM Parish Hall, The Quay, Wareham.

Fri 4th

* Warhorse to Horsepower Exhibition Opens at The Tank Museum, Bovington.

* Philip Henry & Hannah Martin Wareham Music Festival at The Corn Exchange. Ffi: www.wareham-music.org.uk

19:30 Swanage Photographic Society Meets in the Rectory Classroom,Church Hill at 7.30pm. Theme Boards (Prints - ‘Open’) Ken Moore Trophy - ‘Open’ Judge: Members

20:00 Gren Bartley Band At The Square and Compass Pub, Worth Matravers. Ffi: 011929 439229 www.squareandcompasspub.co.uk

Sat 5th

* Spring Steam Gala At Swanage Railway. Ffi: 01929 425800 www. swanagerailway.co.uk

* Tiger Day At The Tank Museum, Bovington. www.tankmuseum.org 01929 405096

10:00 Swanage Walking Group Meet at Community Centre/Village Hall in centre of Lytchett Matravers for a walk through woodland and open country. Ffi 01202 623230.

10:00 Meeting of Local Microscopists In the Village Hall at Langton Matravers. Many different subjects from pond life to micro fossils. All welcome to come and look, talk and question. Entry Free .Tea/Coffee available Enquiries to Derek Stevens 422218

12:00 Wareham Whalers At various pubs in Wareham.

14:30 Swanage Garden Society Spring Show ‘Spring Flowers at their best’. At the Methodist Hall.

19:30 Wareham-Hemsbach Society Barn dance at Furzebrook Village Hall, Furzebrook Road, Wareham, BH20 5AR. Contact Robin Brasher 427015.

19:30 London African Gospel Singers At St James Church, Kingston. A programme of traditional African music, Afro-American classics and Gospel. Free admission, interval drinks and nibbles, retiring collection to help preserve this Grade 1 listed church.

20:00 Tantz Live Music At The Square and Compass Pub, Worth Matravers. Ffi: 011929 439229 www.squareandcompasspub.co.uk

21:00 Black Kat Boppers & The Zipheads Live Music at The Legion, Swanage.

Sun 6th

* Spring Steam Gala At Swanage Railway. Ffi: 01929 425800 www. swanagerailway.co.uk

14:00 Swanage Walking Group Meet at Northbrook Road lay-by for circular walk around Whitecliff, Ulwell and Godlingston Manor. Ffi 01929 426926.

14:00 David Celia Live Music At The Square and Compass Pub, Worth Matravers. Ffi: 011929 439229 www.squareandcompasspub.co.uk

Mon 7th

19:30 Friends of the Mowlem AGM In the Mowlem Community Room.

Tue 8th

19:30 Swanage Stamp Society Meets at the Queensmead Community Centre Sw. New and experienced collectors always welcome. Ffi contact John on 450293

19:30 Wareham Camera Club Meets at Parish Hall, Wareham. “Dorchester & Wareham Members’ Presentation Evening”. Visitors welcome. Contact Roger Starling on 01929 553822

Wed 9th

10:00 Swanage Walking Group Meet at in East Stoke for circular walk via

Woodstreet and Quarr Hill to Wool. Return via Cole Wood and East Stoke. Ffi 01202 623230.

14:00 Stoborough WI At Stoborough Village Hall. Annual Meeting.

19.30 Studland WI Meets at Studland Village Hall. Studland Annual Meeting, followed by coffee and cake, Competition: Decorated egg.

19:30 Swanage Evening WI Meets at the Mowlem Community Room on the 2nd Wednesday of every month, at 7.30pm. Kathy, ‘Espionage, Sabotage and Illusion’. Guests welcome.

Thu 10th

19:15 The Purbeck Filling Station At The Tank Museum, Bovington. Monthly celebration meeting for anyone wanting to top up spiritually in an informal and authentic fashion. Guest speaker will be the Rev Nick Crawley. Email: Felicity. rodgers@sky.com

19:30 ‘Annie’ At The Mowlem Theatre, Swanage. Matinee Sat 12th April. Tickets £14 (Concessions £12, Children £8).

Fri 11th

* The Purbeck Society AGM and Speaker TBA. Held at the Community Room, The Mowlem, Swanage

19:30 ‘Annie’ At The Mowlem Theatre, Swanage. Matinee Sat 12th April. Tickets £14 (Concessions £12, Children £8).

19:30 Purbeck Railway Circle Meets at Harman’s Cross Village Hall for a powerpoint presentation entitled “Topham Hatt 30 – Thirty years of the Army at Swanage Railway”, by Frank Roberts. Doors open 7pm. EVERYONE WELCOME. No admission charge; donations welcome. Ffi 554765.

19:30 Meat Loaf & Blues Bros Tribute Night At Holme Nurseries, West Holme Farm, Wareham. Meat Loaf / Blues Brothers Tribute (as seen on Stars in Your Eyes). 7.30pm – 11pm (music at 8.30) - Advance Tickets £10 to include a light snack. Licensed Bar. Ffi: call 01929 554716 (ext 3) to book

Sat 12th

* ‘Freebay’ Tabletop Sale At URC Church, Swanage. Free table, free entry. Refreshments available. To book a table and ffi: Elizabeth on 01929 422406.

09:45 Swanage Walking Group Meet at Knoll House Hotel bus stop (bus from Swanage) for return walk to Swanage via the Agglestone, Round Down, Godlingston. Ffi 01929 426926.

10:00 NSPCC Spring Fair At Wareham Town Hall. Stalls to include Bric-a-brac, Crafts, Tombola, Books, Toys, Cakes and Raffle. Refreshments available. Offers of items for sale, please ring 01929 553578 Email: rwadams0@btinternet.com

19:30 ‘Annie’ At The Mowlem Theatre, Swanage. Matinee Sat 12th April. Tickets £14 (Concessions £12, Children £8).

19:30 Harman’s Cross Village Hall Dance £3 Entry, raffle, coffee, tea and biscuits. Proceeds to local Macmillan Nurses Cancer Relief. Ffi: 01929 551 332.

20:00 Dubl Hand Live Music At The Square and Compass Pub, Worth Matravers. Ffi: 011929 439229 www.squareandcompasspub.co.uk

Sun 13th

14:00 Louise Jordan Live Music At The Square and Compass Pub, Worth Matravers. Ffi: 011929 439229 www.squareandcompasspub.co.uk

15:00 Song for Palm Sunday At St John the Baptist Church, Bere Regis. CANZONETTA will perform short concert of beautiful, sacred music followed by tea and cake in this lovely, historic Church. Retiring collection in aid of the Church Bells Appeal, which has just been successful in a Viridor Credits grant application, so the fund-raising is nearly there.

Tue 15th

19:30 Wareham Camera Club Meets at Parish Hall, Wareham. “Light & Life in the Landscape” with Lee Pengelly” Visitors welcome. Contact Roger Starling on 01929 553822

Wed 16th

10:30 Swanage Walking Group Meet at Acton car park for a circular walk via Wilkswood, Langton and Acton. Ffi 01929 425165

14:30 Studland History Group Meets at 2.30pm in the Village Hall for an audiovisual presentation, “In Praise Of Dorset. Part 3” by Carol and Barry. Not to be missed. Visitors welcome. Ffi the Secretary 01929 439245.

19:30 Wareham & District Archaeology & Local History Soc Meets at Wareham Town Hall. A talk by David Carter - ‘Sandsfoot Castle, Weymouth - a unique Tudor Castle’. Visitors welcome, £2.

19:30 Swanage Garden Society At Herston Hall. ‘New Zealand’ by Jean Smith, a different look at a glorious country.

Thu 17th

19:30 ‘Cinderella’ The Vienna Festival Ballet Perform, at the Mowlem Theatre, Swanage. Tickets £18.50, concessions £16.50, Children £12.

20:00 Wareham Whalers Folk Night At The Anglebury House, in North Street, Wareham. All are welcome to sing, dance, tell stories or just listen. No charge Ffi 01929 551979

Fri 18th

* Wareham Easter Beerex At The Masonic Hall, behind the Post Office, North Street. Ffi: www.beerex.org.uk

09:30 Easter Craft Fair At Burngate Stone Carving Centre. Local Arts and Crafts, cream teas, homemade cakes, exhibition of sculpture and bookable stone carving courses.

10:00 Coastal Open Day The St Alban’s Head lookout of the National Coastwatch Institiution will welcome visitors over the Easter Weekend. Refreshments on offer.

11:00 Easter Family Fun Join the Local Swange Churches at the Good Friday Cafe at Prince Albert Gardens.

19:30 Swanage Photographic Society Meets in the Rectory Classroom, Church Hill at 7.30pm. Modern Coastal Landscapes & Members images with Howard Oliver Visitors welcome. ffi Colin Brixton – 423841

Sat 19th

09:30 Easter Craft Fair At Burngate Stone Carving Centre. Local Arts and Crafts, cream teas, homemade cakes, exhibition of sculpture and bookable stone carving courses.

09:45 Swanage Walking Group Meet at Steeple viewpoint car park for walk to Tyneham Village and Gad Cliff. Return via Whiteway Farm and Ridgeway Hill. Ffi 01929 421039.

10:00 Books, Coffee and Cake At Moreton Village Hall (DT2 8RF) 10am to 12 noon FREE ENTRY Huge selection of books for just 25p a book. Home made/grown produce and crafts too . Donation of books always welcome. For more details contact Maeve 01929 463221 or moretonvillagehall@talktalk.net

10:00 Coastal Open Day The St Alban’s Head lookout of the National Coastwatch Institiution will welcome visitors over the Easter Weekend. Refreshments on offer.

11:00 Easter Family Fun Join the Local Swanage Churches for Easter Saturday Fun Day at Prince Albert Gardens.

Sun 20th

09:30 Easter Craft Fair At Burngate Stone Carving Centre. Local Arts and Crafts, cream teas, homemade cakes, exhibition of sculpture and bookable stone carving courses.

10:00 Coastal Open Day The St Alban’s Head lookout of the National Coastwatch Institiution will welcome visitors over the Easter Weekend. Refreshments on offer.

Mon 21st

09:30 Easter Craft Fair At Burngate Stone Carving Centre. Local Arts and Crafts, cream teas, homemade cakes, exhibition of sculpture and bookable stone carving courses.

10:00 Coastal Open Day The St Alban’s Head lookout of the National Coastwatch Institiution will welcome visitors over the Easter Weekend. Refreshments on offer.

10:00 Grand Spring Bazaar on Easter Monday At the Catholic Church Hall in Rempstone Road. 10 - 4, admission 20p. All proceeds to Emmanuel Baptist Church Building Fund. FFi 07717 682323

14:00 Sweet Lowdown Live Music At The Square and Compass Pub, Worth Matravers. Ffi: 011929 439229 www.squareandcompasspub.co.uk

Tue 22nd

19:30 Wareham Camera Club Meets at Parish Hall, Wareham. “Dingwall Salon Show”. Visitors welcome. Contact Roger Starling on 01929 553822

Wed 23rd

09:30 Swanage Walking Group Meet at Durlston Castle Car park for a circular walk to Dancing Ledge, returning via the lighthouse and castle. Ffi 01929 450164.

19:00 Friends of the Mowlem St George’s Day Dinner In The Quayside Restaurant. Tickets £12, available until Saturday 19th April at the Mowlem box office. Or ring 01929 288092.

Thu 24th

19:30 Langton Matravers Preservation Society AGM of the Preservation Society in Langton Matravers village hall . Some important decisions to be taken. All members invited

Sat 26th

* “Digging Deeper” A Celebration of Wareham’s Heritage. A morning of talks in Wareham Town Hall to mark Wareham Museum’s 40th birthday. Ffi visit www. wtm.org.uk or tel Wareham Town Council 01929 553006

* Archery Achedemy At Corfe Castle. Have-a-go archery. Ffi: 01929 481294 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/corfecastle

* Matt Summer Entertains At The Conservative Club, Swanage.

10:00 Coffee Morning & Table top sale At The Catholic Church Hall, Rempstone Road, Swanage. Free admission, tables £5, please reserve by calling Keith on 01929 450200.

10:15 Swanage Walking Group Meet at Anchor PH, Shapwick for a circular walk, following Stour Valley Way, from Shapwick to Tarrant Crawford via old Crawford Bridge. Ffi 01929 480224.

20:00 Mother Uckers Live Music At The Square and Compass Pub, Worth Matravers. Ffi: 011929 439229 www.squareandcompasspub.co.uk

21:00 Eddie Tudor Pole & Folk Grinder Live Music at The Legion, Swanage. Sun 27th

* Archery Achedemy At Corfe Castle. Have-a-go archery. Ffi: 01929 481294 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/corfecastle

14:00 F.B Pocket Orchestra Live Music At The Square and Compass Pub, Worth Matravers. Ffi: 011929 439229 www.squareandcompasspub.co.uk

Mon 28th

10:00 Purbeck Citizen’s Advice Bureau Working together with Age UK. Session at Swanage Town Hall. Ffi: 01929 551 257 bureau@purbeckcab.cabnet.org,uk

10:00 Wareham Seniors’ Forum At Wareham Parish Hall (on Wareham Quay). Latest Planning news for Wareham Town and surrounding areas. Ffi: Sue on 07825 264353. Age 50+ all welcome.

Tue 29th

19:30 The Mayday Singers Tuesday Treats at St George’s Church, Langton Matravers for a varied programme of music from many times and places and share light refreshments with us afterwards. Entrance is free and there will be a retiring collection in aid of the work of Communicare.

19:30 Dorset Industrial Archaeology Society Meets in The Dorset Room, Colliton House, Colliton Park, Dorchester (opposite County Hall). “English Tide Mills Including Weymouth” is the subject of David Plunkett’s lecture to the Society. Non-members are welcome (small donation suggested). Further information from: 01305 758968 or 871863.

19:30 Wareham Camera Club Meets at Parish Hall, Wareham. “Print & Projected Image of the Year Competitions”. Visitors welcome. Contact Roger Starling on 01929 553822

Wed 30th

10:00 Swanage Walking Group Meet in West Lulworth for circular walk north to Burngate Reservoir, then to Daggers Gate, returning via Coast Path. Ffi 01929 424462.

WEEKLY EVENTS

EVERY MONDAY

09.00 U3A Table Tennis Group meet at Harmans Cross VH.

09.30 Notelets Music Group for under 5s at Parish Hall, Wm.

09.45 Toddler Club URC, Sw. Till 11.15

10.00 Mowlem Indoor Market at the Mowlem. Home grown/made produce – cakes, pies, veg plants etc. Quality clothing, jewellery, per products and lots more. Open until 16.00

10.00 Table Tennis Club Sw FC All ages/abilities £2.50 Till noon. 480093

10.30 Extend Exercise Class to improve strength, balance & flexibility. At Furzebrook VH. Donations welcome. Ffi: 471490

13.30 First Steps Group for early walkers up to 2 years old at Wareham’s Children’s Centre, Streche Rd, Wm. Till 3pm Ffi: 552864

14.00 Pins and Needles at Harmans Cross VH.

14.00 Swanage Disabled Club meet until 4pm. Meeting place alternates between Catholic Hall & Queensmead Hall, Sw. Transport available. Call Mrs Daphne Saville on 01929 425241 ffi.

16.45 Soccer Skills Sw FC First Sch chldn £1 Till 5.45. 425175

18.00 Sw Tennis Club Snr Club Session. 426312

19.00 Wareham Choral Society meet URC Meeting House, Chch St, Wm. Till 9. New singers always welcome. 554229/553460

19.00 Swanage Youth Club. School year 10 and upwards. Till 9.30pm

19.00 Whist. Come & join us at the Reading Room, Church Hill, Swanage. Ffi, call 07984 968733

19.00 Purbeck Chess Club. Mortons House Hotel, Corfe Castle. Ffi, call Brian Beard 425988

19.30 Purbeck Quire rehearse at Wm Methodist Church. New/visiting singers (no audition necessary). String & wind players also welcome. Ffi: 423505 or 480737.

19.30 Wareham Art Club Workshop at Wareham Parish Hall. Ffi: 553718.

19:30 Badminton & Table Tennis Club, Adults, Swanage Methodist Church Hall. Small friendly club. All levels welcome. Til 10pm. 07917 473390

19.30 Wm Folk Dance Club Stoboro’ VH. All welcome. 553519/422730

20.00 DARTS at the RBL Club, Sw.

20.00 Sw Conservative Club WHIST & DARTS. Sw. All welcome

20.00 Herston Hall Management C’ttee Bingo

EVERY TUESDAY

09.00 First Steps Toddler’s Group. Swanage Methodist Church till 10.15am. Ffi: Tom Bullock on 421767, office hours, or tom@swanagemethodist.org.uk

09.30 Kiddies Corner Mother & Toddler Group (term time only) No fee - donations welcome. Purbeck Gateway Church. 551415

09.30 Wareham Art Club Workshop at Wareham Parish Hall. Ffi: 553718.

10.00 Sw Tennis Club Associate Club Session. Till 11. 426312

10.00 Short Tennis at Sw FC All ages & abilities £1.50 Till noon. 425175

10.30 Swanage Walking for Health Group starter walks (15-30mins). Start from the Mowlem Shelter on Swanage Seafront. Get back into the swing of things gently! Ffi: 475692

10.30 Twins Group - for Mums with Twins run by mums with twins at Wareham’s Children’s Centre, Streche Rd, Wm. Till 12 noon. Ante-natal mums expecting twins welcome. Ffi: 552864

11.00 Guided Church Tour at Bere Regis Parish Church. Volunteer-lead tour of this wonderful medieval church. No charge, but donations gratefully received.

13.00 Baby and Toddler Group at Harmans Cross VH.

14.00 Swanage Walking for Health Group. Walks of 60-90mins, various locations. Walks

are very social, for a range of abilities. Walks start from car parks at Studland, Corfe, Arne, Durlston, Langton, Acton, Worth and Kingston. Ffi: 475692.

14.00 Harman’s Cross Village Hall Art Group Till 5

14.00 Wareham Short Mat Bowls. Furzebrook VH. Roll-up session, all standards welcome. Ffi 401799

17.00 Sw Tennis Club Junior Session till 6pm. 426312

18.00 Sw Youth Centre Girls’ Night (Yr 8+) Till 10

18.00 Yoga - gentle at Swanage Arts Centre, Commercial Rd, Sw. £6 for 70 mins or £20 per month. Private lessons also available. Ffi call Johanna (certified Yoga teacher): 07892 680360

18.15 Sw Bridge Club Mowlem Comm’ty Room. 423497

18.15 Sw Cricket Club Practice till 8.30pm

18.15 Sw Bridge Club Mowlem Community Room. 423497

19.00 The Mayday Singers rehearse at The Old Malthouse, Langton. New members very welcome, contact Paul Baird 07802431012

19.30 Swanage Group of Alcoholics Anonymous meets at Swanage Day Centre, High Street, Swanage. If you want help to stop drinking, you are welcome. Or call 01202 296000 for more details.

19.30 Sw & Langton Folk Dance Club Langton VH. Ffi: 424252

19.30 Belvedere Singers rehearsal at All Saints Ch, Ulwell, Sw. All singers welcome! 423350

20.00 Sw Regatta & Carnival Assoc Bingo Herston Leisure, Herston Yards Farm, Sw.

20.00 Sw Conservative Club Bingo, Pool & Snooker

20.00 Carey Hall, Wm Bingo

20.00 LEAGUE POOL at the RBL Club, Sw.

EVERY WEDNESDAY

09.00 St Mark’s Toddlers Group, St Mark’s Church, Swanage. Herston, Sw Till 11am

09.45 Corfe Wool Workshop Corfe VH, East St. Members £1.50; non-members £2.50. Till12.00. 427067

10.00 Short tennis for adults at Swanage Football Club. All welcome. Equipment supplied. Till noon.

10.00 Little Fishes Baby and Toddler Group. Catholic Church Hall, Rempstone Road, Swanage. Term time only. Until 11.30am. Ffi: Alex on 07904 412067.

10.00 Breast Feeding Group at Wareham’s Children Centre, Streche Rd, Wm. Offering peer support and breastfeeding counsellor advice. Till 12 noon. Ffi: 552864

11.00 Volunteer Centre Drop-In at Swanage Library till 1pm. Find our about volunteering to support community groups & charities

12.30 Young Parent’s Group at Wareham Children’s Centre, Streche Road, Wm. Ffi: 552864. Till 2pm. Transport Available.

13.15 EBC TOTS meet Emmanuel Baptist Ch, Victoria Ave, Sw. Til 2.45. £1 per child.

14.00 Herston Senior Citizens meet Herston Hall, Jubilee Rd, Sw. All welcome

14.00 Health Qigong: Fitness and relaxation. Till 3pm. With Penny at the Mowlem Community Room, Sw. Ffi 07969925502

16.15 Swanage Football Club U-7s Training til 5.15pm. £1. Ffi: 426346

17.15 Swanage Football Club U-9s Training til 6.15pm. £1. Ffi: 426346

18.00 Swanage Youth Club. School years 7&8. Till 8.30pm

18.45 Sw Hockey Club Training Wm Sports Centre. Till 8. 424442

19.00 Sw Town Band rehearsals. Town Hall Council Chamber. Till 8.30. 426926

19.00 Wm Bridge Club at the Library, South St. 552257

19.00 Wareham Short Mat Bowls Club Roll-up evening Furzebrook VH. 401799

19.30 Swanage Musical Theatre meet Swanage Bay View Complex Rehearsal Room. All welcome. Ffi: 426161

19.45 Badminton Group meet at the Purbeck Sports Centre until 9.15pm for games of mixed doubles. Ffi, please call Kate on 01929 421806 or email katespurling@ btinternet.com

20.00 Sw Youth Centre Club Night (Yr 9+) Till 10

20.00 Sw Royal British Legion BINGO. High St, Sw

20.15 Dorset Buttons Morris Practice. URC Hall, Wm. 423234/421130

20.30 Wm Swimming Club Adults. All standards + stroke improvement. Till 10

22.00 Sw Youth Centre Club Night (16+) Till 11.59

EVERY THURSDAY

08.30 Wm Home Producers Veg, cakes, plants, flowers, handicrafts. URC. New producers/helpers welcome. Till 11. 553798

09.00 Swanage Painting Club. Catholic Church Hall, Rempstone Rd, Sw. Friendly group. New members including beginners welcome. Till 1pm. Ffi: Jan on 01929 480471

09.30 Pottery Classes held in Wareham. Till 11.30am. For details contact Rachel 01929 480455 to book 15pw.

10.00 PEEP for 2 year olds at Wareham’s Children’s Centre, Streche Rd, Wm. A six week course in early childhood learning. Please call to book a place on 552864. Till 11.30am

10.00 Wm Parent & Toddler Group During term Parish Hall, Quay Till 11.45. 556806

10.30 Isle of Purbeck Arts Club Drop In Coffee Morning. Arts Centre, Commercial Rd, Sw. Til 12 noon. Come see find out what the Arts Club does.

10.00 Wool Country Market D’Urbeville Hall. Cakes, preserves, plants, crafts, vegetables. Coffee & biscuits available.

10.00 Sw Tennis Club Associate Club Session. Til 11am. 426312

10.00 Tea, Coffee, Biscuits at Queensmead Hall, Sw. Til 11am. Adm 50p

10.00 Volunteer Centre Drop-In at Wareham Library till 12pm. Find our about volunteering to support community groups & charities.

10.30 Harman’s Cross Village Hall Chinese Art Group

10.30 Mid-Week Market Morning Service URC, Church St, Wm. Prayer requests to Revd. Simon Franklin 556976

13.30 Under 1 year olds at Wareham’s Children’s Centre, Streche Rd, Wm. Anti-natal mums welcome. Till 3pm. Ffi: 552864.

13.30 Toddler Group. All Saints’ Church, Sw. 423937. Till 3pm (Term times)

14.00 Life drawing classes at Harmans Cross Village Hall from 2pm till 4pm. For further information, ring 427621.

14.15 Sw Over-60s Meet in the URC Hall, High Street, Sw. All Welcome.

15.00 Guided Church Tour at Bere Regis Parish Church. Volunteer-lead tour of this wonderful medieval church. No charge, but donations gratefully received.

17.45 Swanage Youth Club. Learning Difficulties and disability (age 11-25) night. Till 7.30pm

18.00 Five High Singers, United Reformed Church Hall, Swanage. 11 - 18 years. Till 7pm

18.15 Sw Cricket Club Practice till 9pm

18.30 Swanage Sea Rowing Club Circuit Training at Swanage Middle School. Ffi: 07776 201455

19.00 Health Qigong: Fitness and relaxation. Till 8pm. With Penny at Furzebrook VH, Wm. Ffi 07969925502

19.00 Purbeck Gateway Club meets at Wareham Youth Centre until 9pm. Purbeck Gateway is a club for adults with learning difficulties. We meet during term time and have fun! All welcome. Ffi: Lew on 552173. Email: Lewisbell1@aol.com

19.15 Wm Town Band Brass & Woodwind players welcome. 551478/01202 242147

19.30 Short Mat Bowls in the Durbeville Hall, Wool. All standards welcome, till 9.30pm. Ffi: 552682

19.30 Sw Conservative Club Line Dancing

19.30 IoP Arts Club Choir meets till 9.30pm at Swanage First School (NOT Dec 14, 21, 28, Jan 4, Feb 22, Apr 5,12) till May 10

19.30 Swanage Youth Club Youth Action (year 7 - sixth form). Till 9.30pm

20.00 Swanage Conservative Club Shove Ha’penny

20.00 Herston Hall OAP Committee Bingo Sw

EVERY FRIDAY

09.00 Stay & Play at Wareham’s Children’s Centre, Streche Rd, Wm. Till 10.30am. Ffi 552864.

09.30 Health Qigong: Fitness and relaxation. Till 10.30pm. With Penny at Furzebrook VH, Wm. Ffi 07969925502

10.00 Sw Country Market at Community Room, The Mowlem, Sw. Till 11.30 Free. New producers / growers always welcome.

10.00 Table Tennis Club Sw FC All ages/abilities £2.50 Till noon. 480093

11.00 Toddler Time For Under 5s And Carers. Wareham Library. Stories, songs and crafts. Every Friday, including school holidays. Ffi: 01929 556146

14.00 Pottery Classes held in Corfe Castle. 2 - 5pm. Call Rachel 01929 480455 to book. £10pw

14.30 Short Mat Bowls at Durbeville Hall, Wool. Till 4.30pm. All standards welcome. Ffi: 552682.

18.00 Purbeck War-Game & Model Club. Lower Salvation Army Hall, Kings Rd East, Sw. 426096 (shop hours)

18.00 Sw Youth Centre Club 12-13 (Yr 7-9) Till 8

18.00 Sw Tennis Club Senior Club Session. 426312

18.15 Sw Bridge Club Mowlem Community Room. 423497

19.00 Sw Youth Centre Seniors Club Night (Yr 9+) Till 9.30pm.

19.00 Swanage Scouts meet during term time at the URC Church Hall, Sw. Open to boys & girls aged 10-14 years. Ffi: swanagescouts4th@hotmal.co.uk

19.30 Short tennis for adults at Swanage Football Club. All welcome. Equipment supplied. Till 9.30pm. £3.

20.00 BINGO & TEXAS Hold’em Poker at R.B.L. Club, Swanage.

20.00 Sw Youth Centre Live Bands (as advertised) Till 10pm.

22.00 Sw Youth Centre Late Session (Yr 9+) till 11.59pm (members free)

EVERY SATURDAY

09.00 Sw CC U11 - U15 Practice till 10.30

09.30 Sw CC U9 & U10 Practice & Kwik Cricket till 10.30

10.00 Men Behaving Dadly - Group for Dads/Grandads/Male Carers & their children at both Wareham and Swanage Children’s Centres till noon. Bacon sandwiches available! Call 552864 to find out what’s happening where this week and to book a space.

10.00 Tea, coffee and home-made cakes in the Parish Hall on Wareham Quay during the Community Market. Til 2pm. Bric-a-Brac stall weekly. Christian bookstall .most weeks. All welcome for a warm-up and a friendly chat.

20.00 Herston OAP Committee Bingo at Herston Hall, Sw

EVERY SUNDAY

* Gay Women’s Walking Group meet most Sundays for a walk around Swanage and beyond. We’re a friendly, supportive group for gay or bisexual women. Ffi: 07964 659100 or email outandabout.purbeck@gmail.com

09.45 Skyscrapers Children’s Group at Swanage Methodist Church Hall. Including a cooked breakfast, games and fun bible stories, ages 0-11. Ffi: Tom Bullock on 421767, office hours, or tom@swanagemethodist.org.uk

10.00 Arts and Crafts Market at the Mowlem in Swanage. A wide range of local art for sale, including pottery, glass, cards, fabric and much more! To book your table, or for more information, call Tony on 01929 421321.

10.30 Stoborough Emmanuel Baptist Church meet at Stoborough First School, Stoborough. All very welcome.

13.00 Sw Royal British Legion BINGO. High St, Sw.

13.15 Sw Conservative Club Members Draw