The Purbeck Gazette - Issue 260

September 2021 November 2019 238 Issue no. 260 Published by Purbeck Media Ltd

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FRIENDS OF SWANAGE HOSPITAL

ANNUAL NEWSLETTER 2021 PLEASE READ AND SUPPORT LOCAL HEALTHCARE PROVISION! STAY INFORMED!

Purbeck Christmas Challenge!

Pg 22 23 -- 23 37 Friends Swanage Hospital.

HelpOf Save Rex The Brave. Pg 12

Swanage Our Flag IsFolk NowFestival.

Official!PgPg35 16

Swanage Blues Festival.

Pg24 36- 35 Banish Those Winter Blues! Pg

Celebrating Purbeckian Arts! Pg 35 39 Otter Deaths On The Increase.

Pg -37

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Editor’s note...

W

elcome to the September edition of your Purbeck Gazette!

We’ve been inundated with visits, emails and phone calls with requests for us to publish information on everything from community groups to events and more besides - which is fabulous! It’s great news that the Purbeck Gazette continues to be in such high demand from our 60,000 strong readership. In his column this month, David Hollister explains a little about how the paper works as a privately-owned, non-funded business, which I hope will make things clearer to those of you wishing to utilise this excellent local paper to communicate and advertise your wares, services or events with the wider community. We wish we were ‘secret millionaires’, but sadly (as yet!) we’re not!

This edition is (as always!) bursting with your news, views and events - so much is happening now that there’s no excuse to hide away at home! If you’re still concerned about covid, remember to take your mask and get out and about a bit - it’s good for your mental health and even better, you’ll be supporting those in the community who are ‘getting back to normal’ and putting on events once again. Safely and surely, we can all come back from this!

Purbeck Art Weeks has moved to September this year, so there’ll be ample opportunity to view some outstanding arts and crafts this month - perfect for those organised enough to start their Christmas shopping!

Planet Purbeck have also joined our list of inspired local advertisers - this month we bring you information about their exciting new festival coming up this month, organised by the Planet Purbeck team .... all in our pages this month! Enjoy!

The Purbeck Gazette is delivered by: We distribute 20,000 copies of the Purbeck Gazette every month to properties in Purbeck utilising Logiforce GPS-tracked delivery teams.

(Residents who live up long driveways or in lesser populated areas will probably not get a door-to-door delivery. You will not receive a copy if you display a ‘no junk mail’ sticker on your letterbox) Purbeck has a population of approx. 45,300, we print & distribute 20,000 copies for Purbeck and further afield (Crossways, Broadmayne, Bloxworth etc).

You will not therefore ALL get a paper copy! 1 in 3 properties get a copy. We ensure a good spread of distribution throughout the whole area to get the best response for our advertisers, who are our business customers.

We publish in-full online for those households who do not receive a paper copy through the door.

See: www.purbeckgazette.com

The OCTOBER 2021 edition has a deadline of 10th Sept.

The NOVEMBER 2021 edition has a deadline of 8th October.

Public Notices & Information

Swanage Town Council Meetings - SEPT 2021

PLEASE CONTACT THE COUNCIL DIRECTLY FOR INFORMATION

Wareham Town Council Meetings - SEPT 2021 PLEASE CONTACT THE COUNCIL DIRECTLY FOR INFORMATION

Dorset Council For details of council meetings, councillors and decisions please use the web address: www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/committees Alternatively, if you use the old 'Dorsetforyou' address: www.dorsetforyou.gov.uk/committees - you will be redirected to the same link called 'committee meetings and papers'.

About Purbeck Media Ltd The Purbeck Gazette prints 20,000 copies every month and delivers throughout the region from Swanage to Dorchester, Lulworth to Bere Regis. The Purbeck Gazette is published by Purbeck Media Ltd. All editing, graphic design and lay-up is completed in-house by Purbeck Media Ltd. The Purbeck Gazette is printed by Blackmore Ltd of Shaftesbury and delivered by Logiforce GPStracked distribution. The Purbeck Gazette website is managed and edited on-site by Purbeck Media Ltd. Purbeck Media Ltd also publishes The Purbeck Guidette, the Purbeck Visitor Guide. All rights reserved.

OUR TEAM: The Gazette team consists of: Nico J, Editor, Catherine, Advertising Sales & Marketing Expert Advice Executive, David Hollister, Columnist, John Garner, Columnist, Regula Wright, Columnist, Kim Steeden, Spotlight Diary Editor.

VOLUNTEERS: A massive thanks to our volunteers, whose help is invaluable each month. Our proof reader is the very professional Gerry Norris, with volunteer Photographer, Tim Crabb, also on-hand.

Telephone Sales & Client Contact

We reserve the right to maintain contact with our advertising clients, past and present, through the use of telephone calls and emails. We retain customer’s names, addresses, emails and telephone numbers on file. If you do not wish to hear from us to be reminded of upcoming deadlines, please do let us know!

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A different view of Corfe - from inside the Mayor’s Robing Room, by Jason Selman

CONTACT US

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT BUSINESS MATTERS COMMUNITY MATTERS COUNCIL MEETINGS FEATURES Blast From The Past - September 2011 Celebrating Purbeckian Arts!

Friends of Swanage Hospital Annual Newsletter John Garner writes - Reptiles Gazette Gardening with Simon Goldsack Midsummer, by Ilay Cooper National Coastwatch - Eyes Along The Coast Planet Purbeck Festival Ranger School of Dance Swanage Blues Festival Swanage Folk Festival Telling It Like It Is - David Hollister writes Unique Supported Living Success For Wareham FOOD - Godlingston Manor Kitchen Gardens HEALTH & BEAUTY LETTERS MOTORING NATURAL MATTERS TRADE ADVERTS DIARY SPOTLIGHT

35 24 8 2 42 35-39 22-23 29 33 20 16 30-31 37 36 35 8 18 28 40 4 27 29 45 43

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DEADLINE FORFOR THE OCTOBER NOON, 10th SEPT DEADLINE JULY IS EDITION NOON,ISFRI 10th JUNE

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The The clue is in the heading above - these are our readers’ 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 PUBLICATIONS WE DO NOT PRINT MULTI-PUBLICATION LETTERS.

OCTOBER deadline: noon, 10th SEPT

Contempt For Residents?

Dear Gazette, I write about an article in the July edition of “The Swanage and Wareham Advertiser” from Dorset Council, titled “Rising challenges against Dorset Council workers”.

It is with amusement that I read this article, Tony Bygrave (Senior Assurance Officer), seems to think that the increasing number of people challenging Dorset Council shouldn’t be as it’s not a good use of their time. Maybe Dorset Council should do more to listen properly to the general population.

The increased numbers of complaints and challenges maybe should suggest that the vast majority of people are becoming fed up with not being listened to. This was something that was highlighted by a young couple who said that because of the pandemic, they have had the time to email the council about issues and realised that getting them to listen was near impossible and frustratingly tedious at best, so they are correct on one thing in that people have had more time to challenge them - partly because of extra time caused by the pandemic, but it has also shown how difficult it is to be heard by Dorset Council.

It is the job of the general public to put the council under scrutiny and to say that it is not a good use of their time highlights the complete contempt they now hold for the very people that they work for.

Mark Finch, by email

New Lido Open In Swanage

Dear Gazette, The much-heralded street and pedestrian improvement to Institute Road in Swanage has left me in a quandary as to what the puddle/pond is to be used for.

Could it be a waiting area for ducks prior to waddling across, or skating on ice for a winter show?

Yours sincerely, Bob Hufflett, Swanage, by email.

There Is No Climate Emergency Dear Editor, I read John Wootton’s letter with some bemusement about climate change in August’s issue of this great publication.

Letters are continuing to be sent to the United Nations by a Canadian based, non-profit organisation run by 500 dedicated volunteers comprising mainly of active retired earth and atmospheric scientists, engineers and

Beer, Ale & Cider Specialists Food served 12 noon - 3pm, 6pm - 9pm High Street, Swanage. 01929 423533 other relevant professionals who think differently.

Their letters stated it was cruel as well as imprudent to advocate the squandering of trillions of dollars on the basis of results from such immature models. Current climate policies pointlessly and grievously undermine the economic system, putting lives at risk in countries denied access to affordable, reliable electrical energy.

They urged the UN to follow a climate policy based on sound science, realistic economics and genuine concern for those harmed by costly and unnecessary attempts at mitigation.

In simple terms, there are seven things that need to be addressed properly: 1/ Natural as well as anthropogenic factors cause warming.

2/ Warming is far slower than predicted.

3/ Climate policy relies on inadequate models.

4/ CO2 is not a pollutant. It is a plant food that is essential to all life on Earth. Photosynthesis is a blessing. More CO2 in the air has promoted growth in global plant biomass. It is also good for agriculture, increasing the yields of crops worldwide.

5/ Global warming has not increased natural disasters.

6/ Climate policy must respect scientific and economic realities.

7/ There is no climate emergency. Therefore, there is no cause for panic.

Actually, challenging the consensus among scientific community is nothing new, but the voices of those challenging the consensus are always drowned out by the tsunami of climate hysteria from climate alarmists.

Until such time the UN listens to science, the 500 prominent scientists and professionals who are being ignored, it’s “deja vu” all over again.

I remain Editor, yours faithfully, Mike Fry, by email.

Definitions Of ‘Woke’ Dear Editor, Responding to letter by ‘S’ in August’s edition – ‘A Creeping Monster….’

What’s that coming over the hill, is it a creeping monster? Is it a politically correct, woke monster?

Oh dear S, blaming lower police numbers on the woke and PC culture.

I rather think that will be the governments of recent times reducing police numbers and, correct me if I’m mistaken S, I don’t think recent governments have been the greatest advocates for wokeness and political correctness.

But what I’d really like to know is what are S’s definitions of woke and political correctness? Then, working from theses definitions, perhaps we can make any causal links between them and the behaviours S describes, or not.

I’m all for R.E.S.P.E.C.T. and awareness of others, and if there was, perhaps there would be less of the antisocial behaviours S describes.

Duncan Smith, by email

CPRE On Local Planning Dear Readers, Campaign To Protect Rural England It is understood that some local Councillors are expressing the view that, irrespective of recent lessons, our areas will be afflicted with too many houses of the wrong type, in the wrong places and that such a situation is a “done deal”: beyond the power of local politicians to influence.

Therefore, it is important for your readers to know that the CPRE (as part of its campaigning) seeks to ensure that local communities can flourish within the various constraints that apply to their areas and to note that:- 1 : HM Treasury (itself) commissioned a report on the environment (The

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Square & Compass www.squareandcompasspub.co.uk

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Dasgupta Review) which advanced the simple truth that “our economies are embedded within Nature, not external to it”. 2: The pandemic and the declared Climate Emergency have both changed perceptions about Nature and its relevance to human life and living. And 3: Governmental guidance and associated law about planning is obviously in a state of flux and about to be changed, no doubt to reflect ‘1’ and ‘2’ above.

In view of the above, no local community or community member should assume that what was imagined prior to the start of the pandemic is any sort of ‘done deal’ – earlier misjudgements must be corrected.

Reasonable and sustainable planning (to be sound) requires adequate evidence as to the real needs and also about the environmental constraints created (and being created) by the natural world and/or the absence of suitable infrastructure services and facilities. Such services / facilities must foster pollution control that will enhance our rivers and harbours now, rather than in perhaps twenty-years’-time, as was the idea!

Our charitable organisation works through its various local groups which, across Dorset, try to help local communities ensure that planning decisions are not only legal but also sound and in the ‘public interest’ – relevant evidence being critical.

Yours faithfully, Gerald Rigler, Chairman, CPRE Poole and Purbeck Group Dorset CPRE. Charity no: 211974 PO Box 9018, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 9G.

Join Stroke Club!

Dear Editor, Can I please draw your readers’ attention to the Swanage Stroke Club? The club is a social outlet for those who have suffered a stroke and their carers.

In normal circumstances we meet every other month on a Saturday for entertainment, speakers or games. Transport is provided with the Disabled Club’s minibus and a lunch is served. On the other alternate month, usually midweek, we take the members on outings, again using the disabled bus, to places of interest, such as garden centres, cream teas, Blue Pool, Weymouth, Christmas shopping trip and a Christmas lunch party.

In summer months we take a trip on the Poole Quay based Dolphin Boat, which is specially built for the disabled. Trips can be either around Poole Harbour or up the river to Wareham.

During the Covid pandemic we have been unable to meet and have possibly not reached the attention of the community that we serve. We are hoping to recommence meeting with an outing in the autumn.

Anybody who has had stroke is very welcome to join us. We are a friendly bunch and meeting with others who have experienced a stroke, can be helpful, especially to folk newly affected. If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Margaret Pratt on 01929 475608.

Michael (Mick) Beck, Club President, by email.

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01929 427296 07971 690817 Happy to help and advise ‘lockdown’ ended. The congregation (I’ll use this term for a large group of people sat outside) were all aware of social distancing but allowed to sing, and I therefore ‘sang my socks off’! On Sunday 1st August I spent the day at the Dog Show at Margaret Green Animal Rescue, Church Knowle.

It was very well attended and a fun day out for all. At both events people were respectful of each other and thoroughly enjoyed the occasion.

I would like to thank all the people who made them possible, the council, staff, volunteers, traders, and people who support these events.

A big ‘well done’.

Best regards, Jan Green (Mrs) by email

Remembering Ostowiez

Dear Readers, Many thanks to everyone who came along to the Open Garden held at Greystone Court, Kingston on Sunday 11th July.

The sun shone, enabling the visitors to enjoy the gardens with the spectacular view over Corfe Castle, as well as enjoy delicious refreshments in the Courtyard area, before clearing the popular plant stall of its stock.

Your generosity enabled us to donate £750 each to #WillDoes and the Worth Matravers MY TIME centre. There will be an Afternoon Tea, with Open Garden on Sunday 3rd October, in support of the Purbeck Defibrillator Project.

Take care, Deirdre Selwyn (on behalf of the organising group), by email

Requesting An Insight Dear Editor, It was brought to the attention of the public a few months ago that our MP, Richard Drax, still owned his family’s estate in Barbados. It was here that one of his ancestors pioneered the use of slave labour on sugar plantations. He was being pressed to give the estate and Drax House to the people of Barbados.

I thought that he ought to have the right to reply to these requests and I wrote him a personal letter to say this. I said that perhaps he genuinely considers the workers on his land to be better off in his employment than they would be if the land was nationalised.

Mr Drax did not reply to me; this is unusual, as he generally sends a response to letters. Perhaps he thought I was being sarcastic. On the contrary, I would really like to know how he feels about his estates and his employees in Barbados and in this country.

Yours sincerely, Rona Smallwood, by hand.

Sang My Socks Off! Dear Gazette, I attended the ‘Songs of Praise’ recording at the Swanage Amphitheatre on the evening of 28th July, which was the first recording carried out since

Dear Readers, Final victory in the Battle of Britain fought between July 10th and 31st October 1940 saved us from a Nazi invasion. Of the near-3000 airmen fighting the Luftwaffe, some 500 paid the ultimate price. One of those was Antoni Ostowiez, a Polish pilot serving with the RAF’s 145 Squadron. On August 11th 1940, he was shot down in his Hurricane over Swanage Bay. His body was never found.

Ostowiez was one of 143 Polish airmen who served with such gallantry in the Battle of Britain, either in RAF squadrons or in two Polish squadrons.

On July 19th, he was the first Polish pilot credited with a confirmed victory over a German plane in the battle. He was also the first Polish pilot killed in the Battle of Britain.

It is poignant to reflet that Ostowiez was to lose his life fighting for our freedom, within sight of Swanage’s war memorial.

Michael Olizar, by hand.

Critiquing Durlston Dear Gazette, I have been a regular wanderer of Durlston Country Park for the last forty years. I am most impressed with the improvements that have been made to the castle and the surrounding approaches, although I am aghast by the increased parking charges.

I am also impressed with the great work the volunteers have done resurfacing the footpath through the woods, the cutting back of the growth each side of the wall and the removal of the overhanging branches. Also, the clearing of the trees blocking the amazing views from the walk.

However, ‘Durlston Country Park and National Nature Reserve’ (to give it its full name) - how are the badgers, owls and many more of nature’s declining wildlife supposed to hunt and feed their young whilst there is plastic bunting fluttering in the wind, hammocks, swings and slides, plasticcoated signs and so on? These can scare their prey from venturing out.

Where are the Roe Deer going to run, while there are rope fences strung across areas of the woodland?

I learnt as a child never to hammer nails into trees - they rust and poison the tree. I noticed recently a single bat nesting box nailed to a tree, facing south. Bats are very sociable animals and live in colonies; in belfries, attics and caves (in the dark), which there are plenty of on the Isle of Purbeck. To

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my knowledge a single bat box, facing south into the sun, is not appropriate.

There are also many different tags nailed into many trees. As for the modern seating which replaced the one-hundred-year-old Purbeck stone seats. They are an eyesore; unusable and ugly. I have also noticed, George Burt, builder of the castle and designer of the park, used miles on his carved stone signs, most of which now need restoring. Modern Durslton, however, is using kilometers - we have now left the E.U.!!

A nice semi-circle of Purbeck stone seating in the old Avery Glade was built by American soldiers at the end of WWII (which we would never have won without them), whilst they waited for ships to take them home.

They built similar seats as a thank you to the residents of Swanage for accommodating them for three years. This seat in the Avery Glade has been replaced by some amateur woodern structure which means nothing.

The steps from the park back to Swanage are a danger. Each has a wooden trip board, wooden pegs and no hand rail, leading to a muddy path and on to a decent wooden bridge. I could have heard a rumour that Durslton Country Park is to receive a further one million pounds for additional development - what next? A Disneyland and no wild life at all?

Sincerely, Moaning Molloy, Swanage, by hand

A Big Ask - Together, We Can! Dear Mrs Johnson, Please protect the oceans.

Kind Regards, Anthony L Morton-Jones, Swanage, by email

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TELLING IT LIKE IT IS...

You Don’t Know What You’ve Got Till It’s Gone....

by David Hollister

J

ust in case you thought I’d gone away, I haven’t. And neither have the issues I took up earlier this year with Cllr Cherry Brooks, Lead Member for Highways and South East Purbeck Ward Member. But the music stopped and these issues ended up with Jack Wiltshire, Head of Highways.

Who wrote……. “I’m best placed to respond on the matters you have raised……” His answers to our questions are as follows: Dangerous Footway in Harmans Cross “I support the original response given for this matter. I don’t disagree that a new scheme here would be beneficial. However, we can only deliver schemes within the available budget. Our neighbours in BCP receive 1.5 times more than us when they have a network that is a third of our size.

This is something that Cllr Brooks and I find unfair and on which we are pushing for fairer funding. It’s not a scheme that we can justify carrying out with our current budget”.

So, we conclude this matter, having reached no positive result, and are still hoping to avoid deaths or serious injuries this winter.

Footway Railway Bridge, Wareham “We’re looking to build a shared use footway/cycleway over the existing road bridge. This would be delivered using a mix of local developer contributions and national funds.”

So, we conclude this matter, neatly shelving it until they can raise the funds or until someone else pays. Still hoping that the expensive operator-controlled gate doesn’t go out of service this winter, effectively cutting half of Wareham off from the other half.

I quote from a letter that my colleague in Wareham wrote to Cllr.Peter Wharf…..

“If the person in the hut, armed only with a timetable and binoculars, fell asleep or was taken ill, can you imagine the lawsuits if there were a death or injury? Can you imagine how many individuals and organisations would be in the firing line? Meanwhile Dorset Council is closing Tourist Information Centres on cost grounds whilst paying out a six-figure sum annually trusting the safety of Wareham residents to someone in a hut!

Why is this issue not on anyone’s agenda within Dorset Council?”

I think you’ll agree that he has a valid point, even though he and I disagree over the need for a proper pavement or cycle track over the road bridge.

Langton Hill Junction A351 “We have reviewed what we can do to improve safety at this junction.

There are two main options which we are now examining. The first is extending the existing 30mph limit on the A351 in Swanage to go past the Langton junction to the north, replacing the current 40mph limit through the junction. The second is banning left turns at the junction.

We’ll be looking for feedback on both these options as part of the Traffic Regulation Order process” In other words, a meeting at which neither I nor the various complainants will be present, coming to the conclusion that nothing needs to be done and whitewashing the amazing complacency of the ‘men in suits’ who invented this ridiculous junction.

Puddle at St. Michael’s Hill “Dorset Highways operate to the same highway asset management plan now as under Dorset County Council. This response is needs based and not focused on any one part of Dorset. The Highways service provides a public service and it is right that we should be held to account for our actions.

“If you wish to raise new concerns, I would encourage you to report these online. This will enable us to provide the most suitable response. You have raised some concerns that once I have investigated, I have been satisfied that our approach was appropriate”.

God, what arrogant waffle!! In their words, there isn’t a problem so they’re doing nothing about it. Hope they’ve seen Frank Roberts’ picture dated 13th August, clearly depicting a non-existent puddle.

What happened to the promises made to me on 11th March at a site meeting with Ian Styring, Community Highways Officer, where I was assured that remedial action would be taken until the problem had been resolved?

As per usual with anything connected with Dorset Council – absolutely nothing.

I write this in tears as I’m watching the TV pictures of the Taliban tearing through Afghanistan like a pack of wolves through a kindergarten, unopposed by the ‘great nations’ of the UK, USA and Europe, all standing by and watching carnage the like of which hasn’t been seen since World War II, expecting these vermin to ‘negotiate’, wringing our hands and shedding crocodile tears like we did in 1939.

Watching wildfires devastating huge chunks of our planet, sending ever more smoke and CO2 into our polluted atmosphere; watching flooding which is undoubtedly the result of climate change, while we tear up woodlands to spend untold billions of borrowed money to allow commuters to save half an hour on their journey to Birmingham, and still seriously consider more airport expansion. Making pathetic noises and gestures against ‘global warming’ whilst not only permitting but encouraging ever-more house building in nominal ‘green belts’.

I’ve never, in 74 years, been more concerned at the state of this overpopulated planet and its self-serving governments. This is the ‘Highway To Hell’ and we’re too far down it to turn back. Which makes the efforts of our own little ‘men in suits’ to impose their pathetic laws and regulations simply laughable, and my own efforts in bringing them to account, even more so. I’m wasting what’s left of my time; fifty years ago I’d have packed my shovel and my shotgun into my Range Rover and headed for the hills.

But don’t worry, Councillors, I may not be here for that much longer. I am flattered and amazed by the volume of correspondence we receive here at Purbeck Gazette, praising not only our superb little magazine but also my acerbic but generally accurate criticisms of the many councils and official bodies who seem to have delusions of competence.

You, dear reader, need to know that the Purbeck Gazette is in no way government-funded or financially supported by any council. It is wholly owned by individuals with limited financial resources. None of the contributors get paid. At all. It costs over £300 per page to print and distribute – and this is going up as paper supplies and freight costs become ever more expensive. So, regardless of how important your forthcoming event is, or how fascinating your contribution is, you need to understand that without advertising revenue, we cannot continue ad infinitum.

The codfish lays ten thousand eggs. The homely hen lays one.

The codfish never cackles, to tell you what she’s done And so we spurn the codfish; the homely hen we prize!

Which demonstrates to you and me….. it pays to advertise!

The pandemic, we are assured, is hopefully over. But to local businesses – and that includes us – the damage for many has been deep and may be long-lasting. People often say: ‘I can’t afford to advertise’ and I always respond: “you can’t afford not to.”

Either you’re doing great and want to proclaim how brilliant your business is in print, or you’re desperate for customers, needing to advertise as a proven business strategy in order to tempt someone through the door and keep you in business.

If you’ve an event or business to promote, please don’t call us and insist on having ‘free space’ as it’s ‘important to get your marketing in the Gazette’, any more than you would go into a local pub and demand free roast dinners as you ‘need to eat food’. We sell space in our publication as a business and we welcome a wide range of community members and businesses to purchase space in order to communicate with over 60,000 readers.

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New Plans For Purbeck’s Air Cadets

W

e were very disappointed when our HQ in Swanage was closed recently. The main reason was that the WW1 Army hut, where we met, was “past its sell by date”. The cost of repairs, plus the potential re-development of the site, made it uneconomic to maintain the building.

Following a review of the Air Cadet footprint in Purbeck, it has been decided to create an Air Cadet Hub for Purbeck. As a result of the Covid lockdowns, some of our training is now available on-line, which will help cadets who sometimes have transport problems getting into Wareham on a Parade Night.

To support the creation of the Hub, the Squadron has been renamed as ‘2185 (Isle of Purbeck) Sqn’. Meetings are on a Monday evening from 7-9pm in St Martin’s Lane, Wareham, BH20 4HF. This is more inclusive of the towns and villages where the cadets live. It will also give us the opportunity to expand our community involvement. Most cadets do not go on to join the RAF, but we can help them to become more involved in the communities where they live.

In the past, cadets in Purbeck have supported events such as the Carnivals, Folk Festivals, Rotary Fete, Remembrance Parades, events at the Mowlem Theatre, as well as delivering the Christmas Charity post. Cadet skills at using radios have helped traffic management at events. The volunteering by the cadets helps them achieve Duke of Edinburgh Awards.

Young people in school year 8 and above are eligible to become Air Cadets. The current annual subscription is £45 and this covers all activities, including flying and gliding and the issue of a uniform (excepting footwear).

Additional charges are incurred when cadets attend camp and other training courses when food and/or accommodation are provided!

The relaxing of Covid regulations will hopefully enable us to welcome new cadets on Monday 13 September.

Currently the cadets are working on a project to design a new crest for 2185 (Isle of Purbeck) Squadron. Any ideas would be gratefully received to help the cadets in this task. Email: oc.2185@rafac.mod.gov.uk Flt Lt M I Brennan RAFAC, Oc 2185(Isle of Purbeck) Squadron

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Don’t Lose Your Right To Vote!

D

orset residents are being asked to check their electoral registration details are correct, to make sure they retain their right to vote in future elections and referendums.

Letters are being sent to all households as part of an annual canvass to identify any residents who are not registered to vote, or whose details are not correct.

Although the majority of households will not have to take action if their details are up-to-date, it is important everyone follows the instructions on the form that will arrive in the post over the next couple of weeks.

Households will start receiving letters from Friday 6 August. These will be sent in two batches: It is expected that recipients of the first batch will not need to make any changes to their details.

Recipients of the second batch of letters, delivered from 13 August, will be required to respond and a pre-paid envelope will be enclosed.

If there have been changes in your household, for example if you have moved house, or someone in your household has reached 16 or 17 years old in the last year, you can provide the information in the following ways: • Visit householdresponse.com/Dorset and log on using the security codes supplied on the letter • Complete the form and return it to the address provided on the letter If there have been no changes to your household but you have received a form which says you must respond, then you can also use one of the following methods as well as those listed above: • Call 0800 197 9871 and supply the security code from the letter (mobile providers may charge for this service) – this service can only be used to confirm there are no changes to your information • Text NOCHANGE followed by the security code on your letter to 80212 (mobile providers may charge for this service) – this service can only be used to confirm there are no changes to your information Jonathan Mair, Corporate Director – Legal & Democratic, Dorset Council said: “Please keep a look out for the letter and let us know of any changes as soon as possible. For example, if you have recently moved to a new address you will need to update your details.

“It’s really important that everyone who is entitled to vote is able to do so. Being registered to vote gives you the chance to have a say on who represents you. It also helps when applying for credit - as a way to counteract fraud, the register is used by credit agencies to confirm where someone lives.”

Jonathan continued: “Please consider responding online or by telephone wherever possible, as soon as you can. As well as saving the council money by not having to send reminders, we will not need to arrange personal visits from appointed electoral canvassers to obtain the information.”

Each year, by law, councils conduct an annual canvass in order to update their electoral registers. This is to find out if there are any changes to the household so they can remove the details of people who no longer live there and invite new occupants to register individually. Any resident aged 18 or over can complete the form on behalf of their whole household.

Any residents who have any questions can contact the council’s elections team on 01305 838299.

OCTOBER 2021 EDITION DEADLINE NOON, 10th SEPT

Email: ed@purbeckgazette.co.uk

The Purbeck Gazette

Swanage’s Newbie Picnic

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n Wednesday July 28th, Swanage held a ‘Newbie picnic’ - an inspired idea mooted during an online conversation by several newcomers who’d moved to Swanage during the last eighteen months. Due to continued lockdowns and the cancellation of events, group meetings and so on, it transpired that there were quite a few newcomers who had struggled to meet new people and settle into their new community. Dorset Council and Durlston Country Park very kindly offered the park (thanks Katie!) as a place for newcomers to meet-up one evening for a ‘newbie picnic’, designed to allow people to meet others in a similar situation and make a few friends.

Over thirty recently-moved people attended, with a few locals thrown in for good measure. Everyone had a good chat, Claire from Burngate Stone Carving Centre gathered up some new volunteers and the picnic was a success. Town Crier, Andrew Fleming, also attended and sung the Isle of Purbeck Anthem, which was fabulous. A lovely evening, in a lovely location, with a great group of newcomers who have joined our community!

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Wareham Town Council Update Julie, our Gazette correspondent, details the goings on in recent council meetings.....

News from Wareham Town Council July he BMX ramps at Hauses Field have been removed because heavy use during the lockdowns had left them unsafe. They will be replaced with an improved version.

Deteriorating safety surfaces and play equipment due for renewal at Hauses Field, Carey Hall, Drax Avenue and the Recreation Ground bring the total estimated cost to £465,000. The Council has just over a quarter of that amount available and hopes to find other sources of funds before applying for a Public Works Loan.

Wareham Community Growers, who will help the Town Council with flower displays and identify possible new sites, entered Wareham in the In Bloom competition.

Dorset Council (DC) withdrew funding and the Tourist Information Centre has gone from the library. Tourism is a priority for Wareham and DC has funds to set up an alternative provision. The Town Council Officers have suggested that the Corn Exchange be used as a Visitor Centre / Internet Cafe / gallery for local artists and community groups.

The Visitor Centre would be open six days a week from 10am - 4pm, with part-time staff; it could sell tickets for local events and provide customer service for Wareham Town Council.

Entry to the Visitor Centre and Museum would be from the main doors on North Street. Letting the Corn Exchange earns less than £6,000 a year and there are alternative venues in the town. Councillors were cautious, wanting a costed business plan, but agreed that DC be approached for funding. Meanwhile, visitwareham.com is a useful resource.

Westport House will no longer be open for visitors without an appointment, but the library will provide customer service for DC on Tuesdays between 2pm and 5pm and other weekdays from 9.30am to 4pm.

Wareham Town Council will support Wareham St Martin Council in asking DC for a speed limit and warning signs on Carey Road from Westminster Road to Trigon estate.

Since the lockdowns this has become a popular walking and cycling route and could become more so due to improvements to footpaths and bridleways around the Silent Woman. Also, the road could be used by more drivers unfamiliar with the area as they head to Careys Secret Garden.

Michael Tomlinson MP is involved in the battle to keep a level railway crossing. Councillor Turner has sent DC details of a new level crossing which has been installed by Network Rail in Suffolk.

Wareham Town Council welcomed a new Deputy Town Clerk, Katherine Noble. Wareham Neighbourhood Plan will be put to referendum this autumn. There will be two Volunteer of the Year awards next time as the award could not be presented last year.

Details of future meetings will be on the Council’s website: www. wareham-tc.gov.uk, or ‘phone 01929 553006 for more information.

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The Purbeck Gazette

Brentwood Bring Some Life And Joy To Swanage!

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he very talented youngsters of the Brentwood Imperial Youth Band were staying in Swanage for their annual band camp.

Always a favourite at Swanage Carnival, they have played in the Carnival procession many times and sadly without a carnival this year, they offered to do a couple of ‘pop up’ concerts on the seafront, much to the delight of the Carnival committee.

What a thrill it was for the many spectators who watched the youngsters play with enthusiasm and fun!

Swanage Carnival 2022 : 30th July - 6th August

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Let Her Care Be Your Legacy

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he children’s charity Julia’s House has been by Erica’s side ever since her daughter Isabella was born with a rare condition that causes chronic lung disease.

The past year has been a difficult one for them both, as Isabella’s condition

has deteriorated and she now needs a ventilator to help her breathe.

“Just before her birthday last year, Isabella got really poorly and she had to go into hospital,” says Erica. “She came out just before lockdown started, but the illness had a knock-on effect. She’s constantly on oxygen to help her breathe, as well as a ventilator overnight.

“I’ve spent three years ignoring the doctors when they’ve wanted to talk to me about end of life care for Bella,” says Erica. “I just couldn’t bear to think about it. But this last year, I’ve had to do it. Because if she keeps declining the way that she is, I need to be in the right frame of mind if something happens to her.”

Nurses and carers from Julia’s House visit the family in their home to provide medical care and play sessions for Isabella, and essential breaks and support for Erica.

“They’ve seen me at my worst, so they know how to talk to me like a human and I can be open with them when I’m struggling.”

One in four of the children Julia’s House care for are supported by Gifts in Wills. A gift of just 1% can make a huge difference. When you use the Free Wills Service, either in-person or online, you could turn a kind thought into a lifeline of vital support for local families like Erica’s. Once you’ve taken care of your family, will you help us do the same for ours?

Find out more at juliashouse.org/legacy

The Purbeck Gazette

Rotary Summer Fete & Craft Fair Cancellation

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s many of you will know it was with great regret that Swanage & Purbeck Rotary decided to cancel the Rotary Summer Fête and Craft Fair, scheduled for Thursday 12th August.

This was because of the increase in positive cases of Covid both nationally and in the Purbeck area at the time and the risk to public health by holding an event that might attract a large gathering.

Unfortunately we had to take this decision after the August edition of the Purbeck Gazette was already printed with our fete advert included, so we apologise to anyone who went along on the day. We were terribly disappointed to have to take this action, but we hope everyone will understand the reasons.

The annual fete is one of our key fund raisers and whilst we were still able to run our Summer Raffle, we will inevitably fall short of our fund-raising target for this year. If you want to help us to help many local charities and other good causes, please scan the QR code above, or go to: https://www.swanagerotary.org/cio.

Looking ahead, the event will be back in 2022, bigger and better than ever!

Please note the date – Thursday 11th August 2022.

Deirdre Selwyn, President, Swanage & Purbeck Rotary CIO

OCTOBER 2021 EDITION DEADLINE NOON, 10TH SEPT

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View from the Lookouts – September 2021 ver the last twenty five years or so, the National Coastwatch Institution has gained the respect of the coastal emergency services. We’re now considered to be part of the maritime search and rescue organisations and both St Alban’s Head and Swanage have what is known as “Declared Facility Status.” To achieve this, we have to go through a rigorous assessment to show our competence and capability.

A measure of the respect NCI has gained is that we have our own dedicated VHF radio channel (channel 65). Working alongside Her Majesty’s Coastguard (HMCG), we’ve been asked to take part in a trial to help boat owners check their radios. As from the end of July, boat owners are being encouraged to contact their local NCI station for a radio check, rather than contacting HMCG operation centres.

Having NCI do these checks will reduce the workload of HMCG and allow them to concentrate on monitoring and keeping our coastal waters safe. Initially, the promotion will take place in the Solent Coastguard area but will eventually expand to cover the whole NCI area of England and Wales. The first promotional broadcasts on VHF Ch 16 will say that radio checks to NCI can be made between 1000 hrs and 1600 hrs as this is the shortest period any stations are open in the Solent area.

To get a radio check, vessels will just need to hail NCI on channel 65 and the nearest station will let you know how they receive your call.

The response might be “Your signal is weak, but readable” or “loud and clear” or “weak and unreadable.” If it’s the former or latter, you might want to have your set checked by a professional!

Although marine radios are now essential pieces of kit in recreational and small craft, this has been a relatively recent development. In the past small vessels relied on visual communication using flags and the Coastguard stations, where most of the NCI stations are based, played an important part in that.

Flags with various patterns and colours represented letters and numbers and when hoisted on a flagpole spelt out a short message. The system goes back to the days of sailing ships and, as a young boy, I can remember films where a naval officer read out the famous signal from Nelson, “England expects every man to do his duty.”

As well as representing letters, flags hoisted singularly have a meaning and we still use this system today. Diving vessels fly the “A” flag when they have divers underwater, showing that other vessels should give them room. With our coastal waters becoming busier and busier, this is one flag that all water users should be familiar with.

Another flag, that many people of a certain age will be familiar with, is the “P” flag, or more commonly the Blue Peter. The flag is flown by a vessel when it is about to leave port.

Shore stations, such as St Alban’s Head and Peveril Point also used to warn passing vessels of strong winds using a system of cones and

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The Purbeck Gazette

balls, hoisted on the flagpole. The direction of the cone and position of the balls gave an indication of the direction and strength of the force.

They were still in use up until the early 1980s when they became fully superseded by the shipping forecast. At night-time, the cones were replaced by a series of lights.

Another way of signalling to vessels was semaphore. Originating in the nineteenth century, semaphore uses the position of pivoted mechanical arms or flags, mounted on a pole or tower to spell out letters. The system can also be used by a person using coloured flags or lights.

The Lookout at Peveril Point was one of a chain of stations along the coast that were used to pass messages to incoming vessels. As with all of these visual communication systems, it has become redundant with the advent of modern radio telecommunications. It is however still used during at sea replenishment between the Navy and the Royal Fleet Auxiliary.

Nowadays, the flags at the NCI stations are flown to show that we are open but those with sharp eyes may notice that we have different sized Union flags. When the wind is forecast to be above Force 4 on the Beaufort scale, during a watch, we will generally fly our smaller “storm” flag.

This is the National Coastwatch Institution, listening out along our coast on Channel 65. St Albans Head NCI and Swanage NCI out.

Pictured: Top left: Semaphore tower at Peveril Point 1904 (credit Carey collection, courtesy of Swanage Museum). Top right: Watchkeeper replying to call on ch. 65. Below: VHF Radio on channel 65

The Purbeck Gazette

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Out Of The Blue

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es, its September, don’t forget to look out for the Harvest moon, it’s the fullest moon of the year.

Out of all the other months of the year, September is spelt with the most letters and talking of letters, we value your comments and therefore encourage more of you to get in touch. If you can spare five minutes, please use this link and have your say: https://www.surveymonkey. co.uk/r/PurbeckEmail by listening and acting upon what you have had to say enables us to target both our resources and patrol.

So, what have we been up to? Well, during the period July 06 2021 – August 06 2021, we dealt with a total of 684 occurrences in Purbeck, of which 215 were recorded crimes and resulted in 66 arrests. There were also 124 occurrences of road traffic collisions.

Continuing with the road theme, there has been an increase in road traffic collisions, as visitor numbers continue to increase there are many more vehicles on the road.

Please be patient and considerate. Our No Excuse teams are operating in Purbeck.

We have also been having regular engagements on the seafront on Shore Road in Swanage, you may have seen us there. We have been discussing community issues with the opportunity for local people to complete a priority survey and have your say.

We have also been offering crime prevention advice and off course some little trinkets for the children. Neighbourhood Policing | Dorset Police Finally, if you need to contact Dorset Police please call our Police Enquiry Centre by calling 101 or email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk.

Always call 999 in an emergency when there is a risk of harm or a

crime in progress. Alternatively, call the free Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.

You can also use our website to report a number of issues, from full crime reports to lost property; just use the following link https:// www.dorset.police.uk/do-it-online/ Don’t forget to visit us on our Facebook page Facebook.com/ Purbeck-police and Twitter - @PurbeckPolice – we really value your support and comments. You can also see our latest priorities and up and coming events at https://www.dorset.police.uk/neighbourhoodpolicing/purbeck/ Why not register on Dorset Alert, by registering for the free Dorset Police community messaging alerts you will receive information on: local crime and incidents where we believe that sharing information with you will help to prevent further offences occurring, crimes and incidents where you may be able to help by providing vital information, current crime trends, crime prevention advice and Safer Neighbourhood activity and opportunities to meet the team.

You can also receive news from our partner agencies such as Dorset Fire and Rescue Service or Trading Standards and Community safety messages.

Purbeck Neighbourhood Policing Team

The Purbeck Gazette

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Unique Supported Living Scheme Hailed A Success

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esidents of a pioneering Dorset Council scheme for adults in social care – a first of its kind in the United Kingdom – have recently celebrated one year of living independently.

Dorset Council’s initiative enables adults with learning disabilities, mental health issues or physical impairments, to take their first steps to independent living, in temporary and relocatable accommodation which is adapted to meet individual needs.

The custom-made apartments at Red Oak Court in Wareham, are designed to house people who receive social care support and want to live by themselves, need to move on from their current living arrangements or have been discharged from hospital and need an appropriate place to stay.

The council’s Building Better Lives team commissioned 17 modular, moveable, self-contained apartments and bungalows, plus an office and overnight facilities for an on-site care provider, in 2019. The units were built in a factory and craned on to the site for further work to be carried out in Spring 2020.

Shaun, a resident at Red Oak Court, enjoys having his own home. He says: “I like being on my own and being independent. Living here is a good thing…it’s a good place to live. I cook every day and like having mum and dad over for tea. I do newsletters and stuff like that every month and do events and organising, like football.”

Cllr Laura Miller, Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care and Health says: “Dorset Council’s Building Better Lives’ supported-living scheme is enriching the lives of adults with social care requirements in Purbeck, by providing modern, fit-for-purpose and state-of-the-art accommodation.

“The temporary nature of the accommodation at Red Oak Court works well for our residents, as it gives people time and a place to gain independence and confidence. They have the choice and control over their move into longer-term independent housing.

“Our aim is to build on the strengths of people we support, focusing on what is important to them and what they can do, rather than what they can’t do.

“I’m so proud of our workforce and also the families of individuals who have supported the successful transition for people with care requirements to live independently.”

In 2018, a review of housing provision for adults with care needs identified a gap in suitable accommodation with on-site support. Temporary accommodation in the form of relocatable homes were deemed a solution to address urgent housing needs. Dorset Council currently has 4035 adults with a social care package of support, of whom, 953 adults have a learning disability, which equates to around 24%. The council supports 392 people with a learning disability to live in a Supported Living setting.

Rachael Howes, Area Practice Manager for Learning Disabilities at Dorset Council says: “It has been wonderful to see our residents thrive in their new homes. They are very happy and enjoying having freedom and their own space. Many of them have made new friends with their neighbours and keep in touch with their friends from the local area. Since the residents settled into their new way of life, the level of support required from our social workers has reduced, which is great for them and also for the wider community, as the team can now support more people in the Purbeck area.”

The steel framed units which are timber clad, have a lifespan of a minimum of thirty years and will be craned off-site once permanent homes are built adjacent to the complex, part of the Purbeck Gateway development, the council’s longer term vision of addressing housing needs in the area. Red Oak Court is managed by East Boro Housing Trust (EBHT) and on-site support is provided by Community-Integrated-Care (C-I-C).

The Local Government Association’s One Public Estate awarded the programme an £86,000 grant in 2019, contributing to the overall £2.2M cost of the build. For more information on Relocatable Housing and supported living in the Dorset Council area, visit: https://www. dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/w/building-better-lives-relocatable-housing Pictured: top left: Supported residents and staff at Red Oak Court, Wareham.

Below: Supported Red Oak resident, James, with CIC Support Staff.

The Purbeck Gazette

New Housing Register For Dorset

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hanges to how residents can apply and be assessed for social housing in the Dorset Council area started on 19th July 2021. The council has introduced a new housing allocation scheme called Dorset Council Home Choice. It has replaced legacy policies and housing registers which have been in place since before the reorganisation of local government in Dorset in 2019.

Applicants are asked to register on new system, so that applications can be assessed using the new Dorset Council Home Choice policy, the council’s current housing registers closed to new applications on July 19th 2021. All re-registrations will be assessed against the new criteria outlined in the Dorset Council Home Choice policy. The council should have written to anyone who re-applied with the outcome of their assessment.

Dorset Council stated that they had ensured that customers will have been contacted by letter or email before 19 July 2021 to explain the new arrangements.

New website - As part of the changes, the council is introducing a new website to improve the experience of customers applying for social housing. The new Dorset Council Home Choice site gives applicants a personal customer account. This means an applicant can log in to their account at any time and: • view the status of their application • submit documents • receive messages • complete outstanding actions Applicants will also be able to see all types of properties that are advertised.

Cllr Graham Carr-Jones, Dorset Council Portfolio Holder for Housing and Community Safety said: “The introduction of the new policy and website means we’ll be able to offer a consistent approach and an enhanced customer experience to people in housing need across the Dorset Council area. I appreciate that it’s not ideal that we’re asking people to wait a week before they can re-apply but it is necessary in order to get the new system up and running. If you have no one to help or need technical support, please contact Housing on: dorsetcouncilhomechoice@dorsetcouncil.gov. uk or by calling 01305 221739.”

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The Purbeck Gazette

Broadstone Choir - New Term, New Venues, New Voices

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e are delighted to announce that rehearsals begin again after eighteen months on Tuesday 7 September 2021 and we will begin with an Open Evening for anyone who would like to sing.

Apart from weekly rehearsals, the choir enjoys occasional social events for members and their partners. We are a friendly choir and new members are always welcome.

Simon Earl, the choir’s Musical Director, is the Director of Music, Organist and Master of the Choristers at Christchurch Priory. He held organ scholarships at Guildford Cathedral and St John’s College Durham

and before moving to Christchurch was Assistant Director of Music at Wakefield Cathedral. As a local choir we are very fortunate to have Simon as our conductor.

Due to the various Covid restrictions which are advisory, it is necessary to have a well-ventilated space in which to sing. Therefore the rehearsal venue has been moved to St Dunstan’s Church in Upton.

Do come and meet us at 7.30pm on Tuesday 7th September.

For further details call the chairman 01202 698923 or see our website: http://The-Broadstone-choir.mailchimpsites.com

Midsummer

We bring you a series of short essays by renowned author and historian, Ilay Cooper....

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idsummer Day has passed. In Purbeck, everything becomes better, warmer, greener, more flowery day on day until that watershed is reached; from the summer solstice onwards it is all downhill again. There is a slight air of depression. Spring hauled us out of the cold, short days, the gloom of winter. In May and June everything goes mad. Rain, coupled with the warmth of a rising sun, sets the plants into extreme growth, dressing the skeletal trees, blocking footpaths with tall grass, nettles and thorny brambles. Vegetables flourish; so, too, do weeds.

From the peak of the sycamore tree, the song thrush shouts its repetitive phrases, dominating the softer songs of blackcap, blackbird, even that of the tiny, noisy wren.

Having survived the onslaught of large, slimy slugs, seedlings begin to shape into baby vegetables. Bumble bees and the honey bees from Tim’s hives are busy carrying pollen between flowers, fertilising the broad beans so that their pods begin to swell. The cabbage white butterflies have already produced caterpillars to ravage the broccoli; I fight them by hand, rejecting poison sprays. There are already lettuces and spinach to eat. This year the plum tree is more barren than usual; late frost and unseasonal gales destroyed what blossom escaped the beautiful bullfinches.

June 21st rarely passes unnoticed. I’d planned to go to The Square and Compass that evening, but it proved a day of grey, persistent rain. One summer Trev noticed that on Midsummer eve, viewed from a prehistoric tumulus, as the sun sank it appeared to slide down the slope of a nearby hill. Its trajectory is no coincidence; someone planned that mound with the knowledge. How many other such forgotten markers remain ignored in a world where other science has made them redundant?

This is the season of rebirth. The fledgling blue tits, slipping out of the nest box unnoticed, flit yellow-faced through the bushes in a constant search for insects. Young rooks and crows beg, then gargle as a parent shoves another beakful of food down a cawing red gullet. Half-winged guillemot and razorbill chicks launch themselves into the dangers of a new life.

Trev hired a boat to watch them go and, all friends since school, invited Robert and I to join the trip. A lovely evening, I walked to meet them along Priests Way, the ancient track between Worth and Swanage once followed by a priest serving both churches. Colin Waters’ boat, ‘Sheila’s Reply’, waited beside the old stone quay which probably envelops an even older structure John Leland described around 1540. Its first avatar was perhaps built to serve the local marble trade during Purbeck’s 13th century boom. Everything has a story.

A fair breeze, it was choppy as we headed west past Durlston towards Dancing Ledge, where the last puffins on England’s south coast still breed.

I hadn’t seen more than three this year. Late June is the best time to see Purbeck puffins, when the couple of remaining pairs are joined on the sea below the breeding site by younger non-breeding birds checking the place out. In all, we counted seven.

From nearby Bird Cove a young guillemot chick called loudly and

repeatedly, a sound reminiscent of the thrush’s song, indicating it was ready to leave the cliff. That call formed a constant background. Too young to fly, its wings are still mere flippers, great under water, barely brakes when fluttering down. It has evolved a hotline with its father, who replies with loud growls, each voice uniquely individual. They will spend some months together at sea as the chick grows and learns. As we watched the puffins nearby a great black-backed gull paddled innocently on the water, harassed by a smaller herring gull. Gulls, ravens, peregrines and even seals are alert ready to benefit from any careless young creature.

Only Trev noticed the ensuing drama. That noisy chick fluttered down.

The black backed gull took off. The chick, hitting the sea near its father, came straight into a confused disturbance. Somehow, the gull flew off with the baby bird in its beak, landed on the sea to kill it then headed for the rocks for supper. The parent gave a single call, but there was silence. A short, shocking life was over.

The wind had slackened by the time we motored back along the cliffs to Durlston. There, we stopped to watch the larger guillemot ledges. The shrill chirps of several young birds rose above the growls of adults. Above, on a rock another hopeful black backed gull perched. Evening advanced and with it came chill. Now we were cold, several keen to return to Swanage but Trev’s wife, Sue, overruled us: at least we should see one chick successfully make its way out to sea. Nine o’clock came and, through a light mist, a great, red full moon heaved itself out of the sea. Still no luck.

It was worth waiting. Suddenly a chick tumbled down behind a rock. Its father, ready, coaxed it out into open water. They set off towards us. A big, white motorboat, like a rock, poses no threat to these auks. They know them as noisy but harmless. The two birds came close as I shot the best views I’d ever had of a guillemot and its kid heading out into the Channel. But accidentally I had knocked the knob on the camera to the wrong settings: not one of those pictures came out. Meanwhile, Robert successfully recorded it as a video.

At one point the parent called for attention and, as the chick watched, slowly, briefly dived. Was that a first lesson? Nervous that his chick was moving too close to us, he growled softly, almost conversationally.

Obedient, it narrowed the gap from its father and together they swam out to sea, fading into the twilight. Soon the adult would moult until he, too, was confined to small flippers. Over the coming months, both birds would sprout flight feathers – primaries and secondaries - until they were fullwinged. What would inspire the full-grown chick first to patter along the surface and take off? But it had grown up aware of others flying to and fro, bringing in fish. Instinctive, natural that it would gain the freedom of flight, albeit the inelegant whirring variant of a heavy, small-winged auk. Flight is not necessary for life but it is to breed. Only on the wing could it regain the ledges and, an independent adult, take its part in the living sequence.

Pictures: Top - The largest Purbeck Guillemot colony at Durlston. Below: A Great Black Backed Gull flies off with a less fortunate Guillemot chick.

The Purbeck Gazette

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Sport

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Swanage & Wareham Hockey Club Update

ike many other sports, the last year has been a difficult time to manage.

Hardly any hockey was played last season but things are well and truly back on track for Swanage & Wareham Hockey Club, based at the Purbeck Sports Centre.

Training for adults (13 and over) starts on Wednesday August 25th at 7.30pm with junior training starting on Wednesday September 15th at 6.30pm.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back to embark on another successful season for all our four teams. We have two ladies and two men’s teams who all play in Hampshire leagues.

We also very much look forward to seeing some new faces in our club.

Please feel free to pop down on a Wednesday evening to see us, even join in for a few sessions. Who knows, you may be soon playing matches with us on a Saturday! The club ensures that all hockey is played within a Covid secure environment.

If anyone would like to come and watch some hockey, our first home matches are on Saturday September 25th and the times will be available on our website nearer the date.

If you’d like any further information, please go to our website: swanageandwarehamhc.org.uk where you can see all our news, or contact us directly by email on: secretary@swanageandwarehamhc.org.uk

OCTOBER 2021 EDITION DEADLINE NOON, 10TH SEPTEMBER

Purbeck’s Rising Golfing Superstar!

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wanage Golfing Junior, Tom Bastow (pictured), 17-yearsold, was selected to play for Wales National Team at the Homes International Woodhall Spa Golf Club, in August. Tom started playing golf at five-years-old with his now coach, Philippe Bonfanti, at the Isle of Purbeck Golf Club.

At ten-years-old, Tom became the youngest ever club Junior Champion at the Isle of Purbeck Golf Club and at 16-years-old, Tom once again made the history books, becoming the youngest men’s club champion at the Isle of Purbeck Golf Club.

Tom has been playing for Dorset County Golf since the age of eleven and is now playing for the Men’s Team. Tom has now made the biggest leap into national level; he aspires to make it to the European Tour as a professional Tour Player.

Well done Tom - we have a rapidly rising star in our midst! It will be fabulous to see you grace our TV screens in future if you keep on the way you’re going!

If you want to follow Tom’s success, he’s on Instagram: @tombastowgolf

The Purbeck Gazette

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Friends of Swanage Hospital Supporting the health needs of patients in and around Swanage

Chairman’s News

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nother strange and stressful year for everyone but particularly for NHS staff. We can only applaud and support our wonderful staff and hope that giving them a new room to relax in and a garden to sit in might help their wellbeing in some small way.

We have referred to it as the patient garden and we certainly hope patients will enjoy looking at the new planting and sit in the summerhouse, but we also hope staff will enjoy using it too. Thanks so much to our new volunteers who are keeping our ‘hospital garden’ looking beautiful. The summer is usually the time when the ward isn’t so busy, and we had hoped to start a major refurbishment of the area.

But that has had to be postponed in case the beds are needed because the acute hospitals are full.

However, there are plans being drawn up to make changes to our Day Surgery Unit so that services can restart. In the wake of the

Membership Report

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e are very pleased to welcome all the new members who have recently joined the Friends of Swanage Hospital – thank you. We are, of course, also very grateful to all our longstanding Friends.

Being a Friend does not mean that you actually have to do anything to help at the Hospital, you are merely making an annual financial donation and, more importantly, are demonstrating your support of Swanage Hospital. Please encourage your family, friends and neighbours to become Friends of Swanage Hospital.

The more Friends we have, the more projects we are able to financially support at the Hospital and the more strongly we are able to show that our hospital is needed and valued by the community.

The Committee always strive to ensure that Swanage Hospital is able to offer the best and most comprehensive services to the community and help support our wonderful staff and thanks to the support of the Friends and the community, we stand up and fight when we feel that any of the services are being compromised and help fund any improvements that are not fully funded by the NHS. We need everyone’s help please to ensure that we can continue this vital work.

The easiest way to become a Friend is to do so via our website – www.friendsofswanagehospital.org.uk There is a downloadable form or you can securely set up a regular donation online (this is done using Enthuse, formerly Charity Checkout). By using this donation method, any Gift Aid can automatically be reclaimed, monies are received quicker and it makes the whole procedure easier for us. Any existing Friends who currently

pandemic, has come a greater understanding of how infection is spread and so the standard of ventilation in a theatre has been reassessed. To meet this new standard, we have to make structural changes to the layout of the Unit to accommodate the new ventilation system. Of course, it all takes time: planning, costing, tendering and installation. The Friends have agreed to pay for the work and are pressing for it to be done as quickly as possible so that the services can start up again. We know how long the waiting lists are for endoscopies for example, so it is imperative to get our Unit up and running.

The confusion about going to MIU has been very upsetting and I hope it won’t be long before we can go back to our walk-in service – it certainly is something we will be pushing very hard for. However, at the moment you still need to ring111 and make an appointment.

The pandemic has seen unprecedented changes to hospital services, staff have been redeployed and may decide not to return. Our hospital will face new and difficult challenges ahead and the Friends will need to be there to support and perhaps fight for services to return and make sure ‘care closer to home’ will be a reality once again.

Jan Turnbull, Chair use cheques or cash may also like to consider using this method.

For those who prefer not to use online, our yellow membership forms are available at the hospital, at Ballard Down Stores or by calling 01929 422282 or by writing to us at The Friends of Swanage Hospital, Queens Road, Swanage BH19 2ES. The membership form includes a Standing Order form (a Standing Order is an amount set by you which can only be altered by you with your bank).

Our Membership year runs from 1st April to 31st March, and you remain an active Friend if you make an annual contribution (a minimum of £5 is suggested). There are a lot of people who support Swanage Hospital and would consider themselves a Friend of the hospital, but who sadly cannot be counted in our numbers as they are not active members as no recent financial contributions have been received from them.

Existing Friends can make their regular annual contributions by Standing Order or by setting up a regular donation online using our above website.

Alternatively, cheques or cash can be sent to Swanage Hospital with any cheques being made payable to ‘League of Friends of Swanage Hospital’.

The online or standing order option are generally easier for members, as they happen automatically without you having to remember to send cash or a cheque each year.

Please could Friends remember to let us know if they change their home or email address and if they become eligible or ineligible for Gift Aid. This ensures our records, and any Gift Aid claims are accurate. If you have any queries regarding your existing membership, please do not hesitate to email: membership@friendsofswanagehospital.org.uk or leave a message on 01929 422282.

Whatever method of subscription you choose - it is truly appreciated - we couldn’t do it without you!

Kate Spurling and Pete Smith, Joint Membership Secretaries

Autumn Fayre We are so hoping we can hold this event again, but it can’t be at the hospital this year.

We are looking for a venue and will advertise the details nearer the time!

View of our new patient garden, with summerhouse

The Purbeck Gazette

23

Annual Newsletter 2021 Message from Matron

A

nother year has passed, and I can’t believe how quickly it has gone. Last year’s report saw us in the middle of the global pandemic. Now we have a hugely successful vaccination programme running from Wareham Hospital and we are seeing the benefits from people taking this up.

This year has seen many changes in our working practise and whilst the COVID measures are relaxing in the community within healthcare we are continuing to practice the measures put in place during the height of the pandemic. Obviously, we deal with people when they are at their most vulnerable, so protection of the patients and public is our priority.

That said we are so pleased to be able to allow visitors to the wards now as it was so evident that patients were missing their loved ones. We still have to ensure visits are booked and PPE is worn on the ward, but patients really benefit from seeing their family. Stanley Purser ward was the last ward within Dorset Healthcare to look after COVID detected patients and I am so proud of how everyone coped with this and also no transmission of COVID to staff which is testament to the standards of cleanliness and vigilance of the ward staff. We were planning a major refurbishment of the ward with the Friends support but due to uncertainty of the impact of relaxing lockdown measures this proved difficult so unfortunately, we have had to postpone to next year.

All of our outpatient activity is now back; we have changed how we see our patients from virtual consultations to face to face for our most vulnerable. All outpatient activity i.e. physio, outpatient appointments and

Treasurer’s Report

W

hat a weird year it has been for all of us and in particular, charities generally have suffered from being unable to fundraise.

We have been fortunate that our loyal members have continued to donate, and many have increased their annual donation to help us out.

Far more members are also using gift aid to increase their subscription by 25% courtesy of the Government!

We have continued to support the hospital during the pandemic.

You will have seen reports of the new patient garden and the general refurbishment of the external areas near the garden as well as the new car park.

We have completed our spending of over a million pounds on all these

MIU attendance is by appointment in order to ensure smooth visits to the hospital.

As per the Chair’s report MIU now runs an appointment service which is accessed via 111, any life-threatening emergencies please dial 999.

I appreciate this change has caused concerns within the community, but the Swanage MIU staff have access to this service and are able to look at the 111 calls and pull Purbeck patients to us if appropriate.

My last report mentioned the suspension of Day Surgery and Endoscopy services but with the back log of patients needing these interventions we have been working closely with University Hospitals Dorset and plan to reinstate Endoscopy services. The remedial work to ventilation will mean a total refurbishment of the day Surgery unit; again, the Friends of Swanage hospital are supporting this without this we would not be able to carry out this work.

This is my last contribution to the Friends Newsletter as I will be leaving Swanage in September to take up a post in Dorset Healthcare’s Infection Prevention and Control Team.

I have been so proud to be Matron at Swanage and Wareham and these last seven years have flown by. What amazed me and continues to do so is the support for the hospital from Swanage and in particular the committee of the Friends of Swanage Hospital for which we are so grateful.

Donna Kiss

We look forward to welcoming Annette Sanchez, Matron of Victoria Community Hospital, Wimborne, who is going to take charge of Swanage hospital as well. areas and this has led to a loss again this year (but this was expected and budgeted for). We are ready to spend more large sums on the hospital as soon as the pandemic is over and we return to as near normal as possible and work can be undertaken again.

Please continue to support us both financially and by asking wherever possible to be treated at the hospital, so that those involved in central booking are aware that there is the demand for treatment in Swanage.

Finally, we have been pleased, on your behalf, to support our wonderful staff with various treats during lockdowns, so that they know the whole community appreciates the work they have had to do at this very difficult time.

Let’s hope that by my next report we will be moving forward and improving local facilities.

Terry Buck, Treasurer

We hope to be able to hold our

AGM

at Emmanuel Church, Victoria Avenue in October Our patient garden; the view from above!

Watch the news for the date!

Plenty of room for social distancing!

24

Business

The Purbeck Gazette

Basic Capital Gains rules Fixed Interest Gone are the days when the Fixed Interest element of a portfolio was represented by conventional UK gilts which would offer a total return of about 5%. Not only was the return good but the risk of default was negligible. It is still suggested that Fixed Interest exposure should be represented in a well-diversified investment portfolio, but how can that be sensibly achieved in the current climate of low interest rates without taking too much risk? At present, many conventional gilts are actually offering a negative return so, clearly, we need to look elsewhere for Fixed Interest exposure.

The balance of risk and return is key in the selection of Fixed Interest. Yes, you can probably invest in an individual bond which gives an overall return of, say, 5% but that higher return is likely only to be available as that investment is considered to be higher risk and carry a higher risk of default.

In the UK, gross domestic product (GDP) and Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation are both expected to peak this year and then level off after that following falls in 2020 due to the effects of the pandemic. However, it seems there are quite widely diverse estimates of the predicted rates for both. Therefore, as well as taking into account that yields have fallen in recent years as base rates have fallen, we also have to bear in mind the future uncertainty surrounding GDP and inflation.

Maybe we first need to question why we have the Fixed Interest element in a portfolio. Is it for income, for security, or for a bit of both? Does a new approach need to be taken which possibly seeks the income and/or security from other sectors?

Do we perhaps need to look beyond familiar geographies such as the UK and other developed markets and maybe look to areas like China where they have been able to adopt a more stable monetary policy and where the returns have shown an uncorrelated return to developed market interest rates?

Or, maybe we also need to think about building a more resilient spread of allocations in Fixed Interest so that we are prepared for an array of economic outcomes.

Strategic Bond Funds can be a useful way of gaining Fixed Interest exposure as the managers can invest across a broad spectrum of different types of fixed interest throughout the world. As the experts, the managers make the calls on where the best places to be investing are at any time in terms of geography and type of investment.

As with most things in life, Fixed Interest allocations seem to have become more complicated over the years and seem to need more thought and professional input.

Until next month, take care and stay safe.

Kate Spurling, Investment Manager, Redmayne Bentley, Tel: 01202 714 450 Redmayne Bentley is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Members of the London Stock Exchange. The Redmayne Bentley Bournemouth and Poole office is located at 139 Commercial Road, Ashley Cross, Poole, Dorset, BH14 0JD. Follow us on Twitter @redmaynebentley and visit us on the web at www.redmayne.co.uk/ bournemouth

OCTOBER EDITION DEADLINE NOON, 10th Sept

Capital Gains Tax (CGT) is normally charged at a simple flat rate of 20% and this applies to most chargeable gains made by individuals. If taxpayers only pay basic rate tax and make a small capital gain, they may only be subject to a reduced rate of 10%. Once the total of taxable income and gains exceed the higher rate threshold, the excess will be subject to 20% CGT. A higher rate of CGT applies to gains on the disposal of residential property (apart from a principal private residence).

The rates are 18% for basic rate taxpayers and 28% for higher rate taxpayers. Again, if the gain pushes a taxpayer into the higher rate, then CGT will be payable at both rates.

The usual due date for paying any CGT owed to HMRC is the 31 January following the end of the tax year in which the capital gain was made. However, since April 2020, any CGT due on the sale of a residential property needs to be paid within 30 days. In practice, this change only applies to the sale of residential property that does not qualify for Private Residence Relief (PRR).

There is also an annual CGT exemption for individuals that is currently £12,300. A husband and wife each have a separate exemption. Same-sex couples who acquire a legal status as civil partners are treated in the same way as married couples for CGT purposes.

The Purbeck Gazette

Double Promotion For Battens Solicitors

S

outhwest law firm Battens Solicitors are commending the work of Property Dispute Resolution Lawyer, Jacqui Swann, and Commercial Property Solicitor, Michael Sewell. In recognition of their dedication to the firm and clients across Somerset, Dorset and beyond, both Jacqui and Michael have been promoted to Associate.

Jacqui specialises in property dispute resolution, including landlord and tenant issues, agricultural tenancies, rights of way and adverse possession.

Jacqui originally joined Battens’ Debt Recovery Team in 2009 and took the CILEx route to qualification within the Property Dispute Resolution Team, becoming a Chartered Legal Executive in 2018 and a CILEx Advocate in June 2019.

“I am delighted to receive this promotion” explained Jacqui. “CILEx offers an alternative route to becoming a Lawyer, and this is something Battens supports and encourages throughout all our legal teams which is great.”

Michael joined Battens as a Trainee Solicitor in 2014 and completed his training contract in November 2016, qualifying into the Commercial Property Team. Michael’s focus is working with clients, whether as individuals, limited companies, charities or trustees, advising on commercial property sales and purchases, development transactions, landlord and tenant matters and property financing.

Commenting on his promotion, Michael says: “It is rewarding that my work and commitment has been recognised with this promotion to Associate.

Battens have been a great help throughout my training contract and are always supportive of career progression throughout the firm.

I am looking forward to continuing to assist clients seeking commercial property guidance throughout the ever-changing property landscape, and in a post-covid world.”

Managing Director, Ceri Stephens, says: “It is fantastic to see staff who have trained with Battens, progress to achieve these well-deserved promotions.

Both Jacqui and Michael are assets to Battens and their promotions not only reflect their hard work, but the rapport they have developed with their clients, which we value as a company.”

25

The Return of 5% Deposits For First Time Buyers The property market can be daunting for first time buyers and add Covid-19 into the equation and you have a challenging situation.

However it’s not all doom and gloom as property expert Sarah Ford explains: The property market is facing unprecedented demand partly fuelled by the changes the pandemic has brought with it.

At Battens Solicitors, we appreciate that trying to get on the property ladder for the first time can be a difficult experience, but especially for those who have been trying to secure a mortgage in the last year.

In 2020 interest rates were rising and the majority of Mortgage Lenders were no longer accepting deposits as low as 5%. This was because Mortgage Lenders were limiting the distribution of mortgages offered and only typically accepting those who needed to borrow a smaller amount from them and who had a higher deposit. This made it almost impossible for the majority of first time buyers who would only be expected to have smaller deposits.

Now that the economy is starting to open up again, we have seen a rise in mainstream Mortgage Lenders such as Natwest, Nationwide, Halifax and Santander beginning to accept not only 10% deposits, but also 5% which is great news for those now buying for the first time or even those looking to purchase on again.

What is a 95% Mortgage?

A 95% mortgage; known as a 95% loan to value (LTV) mortgage, is a mortgage to purchase a property with a small deposit (at least 5% but less than 10% of the purchase price). This mortgage will be provided on completion with a term set and you will then pay the mortgage off monthly once the purchase transaction has completed.

Your deposit is the amount of money that you need to put towards the property to make up 100% of the final purchase price.

What does this mean for a First Time Buyer?

A Mortgage Lender is likely to allow you to borrow more than they would have done in recent years. You can find a property to buy once you have saved at least 5% of the purchase price and, as long as the Mortgage Lender believes this is affordable for you, they will lend the remainder of what you need to purchase the property.

This means that you could be eligible to buy your first home even earlier than you thought and you don’t have to save quite as much money to do so and get onto the property ladder.

Should you, a friend or colleague be looking to purchase a first home, please do not hesitate to get in contact with a member of Battens’ residential property team for a quote or further information which we should be happy to provide.

For further information please contact Sarah Ford on 01929 500328 or email sarah.ford@battens.co.uk

Offices in Wareham, Dorchester, Yeovil, Sherborne, Castle Cary, Bath and London

01929 768720

The Purbeck Gazette

26

A

Tim Looks West With Ellis Jones Solicitors

Dorset law firm is targeting business growth in the west with the appointment of a highly experienced lawyer in its Swanage office.

Ellis Jones Solicitors has welcomed Senior Associate Tim Glover to help meet rising demand for its services.

Dispute Resolution specialist Tim, who has nearly thirty years of experience, previously held senior positions at law firms in the Weymouth and Dorchester area. Ellis Jones, with eighteen partners and more than one hundred and sixty staff, has its Swanage office in the High Street.

Nigel Smith, Managing Partner, said: “Tim’s excellent reputation precedes him. He is well-known as a dispute resolution specialist across the region and particularly in Dorset. His great depth of experience and considerable skills will be a tremendous asset as our business expands.”

Tim, who qualified as a lawyer in 1992, is an Accredited Mediator with the School of Psychotherapy and Counselling Psychology at Regents College in London.

He said: “The process of dispute resolution may have changed over the years with fewer days in court but the principles remain the same. I’m looking forward to helping more clients benefit from Ellis Jones’ excellent services as the firm looks westwards, especially through my longstanding connections with Weymouth, Dorchester and west Dorset.”

Tim, a father of four, joins the Swanage office hot on the heels of Partner Chris Pemberton. His appointment also follows a record eight promotions at Ellis Jones. Ellis Jones’ other offices are in in Bournemouth, Canford Cliffs (Poole), Ringwood and Wimborne as well as London.

Picture: Firm focus: Senior Associate Tim Glover, centre, is welcomed to Ellis Jones Solicitors by Partners Craig Wells, left, and Chris Pemberton, right, at the firm’s Swanage office

OCTOBER EDITION DEADLINE

NOON, 10TH SEPTEMBER

Email: ed@purbeckgazette.co.uk

The Purbeck Gazette

27

Motoring Help Us Bus Back Better!

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survey has launched to find out how local bus services can be improved and what would make more people use them: https:// www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/bus-service-review.

Dorset Council is working in partnership with bus operators, and other transport providers, to deliver improved services in response to Government’s Bus Back Better – A National Bus Strategy for England. A critical part of this response is the development and submission of a Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP), and input from bus users is an important part of the plan.

Cllr Ray Bryan, Dorset Council’s Portfolio Holder for highways, travel and environment, said: ‘We want to design a future bus network that is attractive for passengers, more affordable, simple to use, faster and more reliable, and greener. Your views will help us shape the future vision and priorities for the bus network in Dorset, so please take the time to complete the survey.’

Dorset Council want to hear from both people who already use buses, and from those who currently do not to understand why they don’t. They also want to hear from public, private and voluntary organisations who have an interest in making our bus services work better.

Comments, suggestions, and ideas can also be emailed to at: busbackbetter@ dorsetcouncil.gov.uk. At this stage the council are looking for any feedback, comments, problems, potential solutions, and ideas that you have about local bus services, both across Dorset and more locally in your area. The information that you provide will help them understand the main priorities to tackle in delivering ‘Bus Back Better’ across the council area and in partnership with other organisations.

The council want you to be as detailed and specific as possible. For example, if you feel that there should be better rural transport provision please identify the area, times of day, locations to serve, and likely profile of people using any such services. The Bus Service Improvement Plan will be published by 31 October. It will be further developed and updated annually.

2021/21 Ford Puma ST-Line X 155Ps mHev, hydrid, manual 1.0L, 5-dr, hatchback, grey matter, one owner, service history, 500 miles, Our Demo Panoramic Roof Drivers Assistance Pack, Panoramic Roof, 18” Wheels, Power Tailgate, Blind Spot information, Rear View Camera with Active Park Assist Fixed LED Headlamps Climate Control, Part Leather Upholstery, Anti-lock Brake System with Brake Assist, Alloy Wheels, Cruise control and Active Speed Limiter, Remote Central Locking, Front and Rear Electric Windows, Electrically Folding & Heated Door Mirrors, Keyless Entry, Sync3 Nav with 8” Touch Screen, Hill Start Assist, Height/ Reach Adjust Steering Wheel, Automatic Headlights & Automatic Windscreen Wipers, LED Daytime Running Lights............................................................£23,995 2013/13 Ford Fiesta Zetec 1.0 EcoBoost, Petrol, Manual, 1.0L, 5-dr, hatchback, Blue Candy, service history, Zero Tax, Air Conditioning, PAS, Anti-lock Brake System with Brake Assist, Air Bag, Front Passenger Airbag Deactivation, Alloy Wheels, Remote Central Locking, Front Electric Windows, Service History, CD Player, MP3 Connectivity, Bluetooth, Hill Start Assist, Height/Reach Adjust Steering Wheel, 60,360 miles....................................................................................................... £5,495 Audi A3 Sport 1.4 TFSi, petrol, manual, 71,146 miles, 3-dr hatchback, white, partial service history, low road tax, Duel Zone Climate Control, Anti-lock Brake System with Brake Assist, Alloy Wheels, Remote Central Locking, Cruise Control, Front Electric Windows, Electrically Adjustable & Heated Door Mirrors, Service History, Height Adjustable Drivers Seat, CD Player, Immobiliser, Deadlocking System, Bluetooth, Height/Reach Adjust Steering Wheel............................................£7,295 Jaguar X-Type 2.2 D S, 2.2l, saloon, silver, 4-dr, diesel, automatic, 87,455 miles, Duel Zone Climate Control, Alloy Wheels, Remote Central Locking, Cruise control and Speed Limiter, Front and Rear Electric Windows, Service History, CD Player, Immobiliser, Bluetooth, Height/Reach Adjust Steering Wheel, Automatic Headlights and Automatic Windscreen Wipers, Rear Parking Sensors, Multifunction Trip Computer......................................................................................£3,495

2016 (66) Honda Civic 1.8i-VTEC SR, 5dr, Auto, in white, Sat Nav, Bluetooth, Cruise Control, Front and Rear Parking Sensors, Rear Parking Camera, DAB Radio, Panoramic Roof, Electric Windows, Only 24000 miles, FSH.............................................................£12,595 2017 (17) Nissan Note Black Edition 1.2 in White/Black, Black Alloys, Cruise Control, Bluetooth, Air Cond, Electric Windows, Electric Mirrors, FSH, 21900 miles, Only £20 Year Road Fund Licence.........................................................................................£6995 2019 (19) TOYOTA YARIS1.5 HYBRID ICON 5 DR AUTO in Grey Petrol/Electric Hybrid, Automatic, Bluetooth, Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, DAB Radio, Ipod & USB Connect, Electric Windows, Electric Mirrors, 1 Owner with FSH, Balance of Manufacturers 5 Year Warranty, 18900 Miles..........................£12995 2012 (62) MINI COOPER S CLUBMAN in Red/Black, Loads of Extras including Sat Nav, Chili Pack, Media Pack, Harman Kardon Hi Fi, Part Leather Interior, Bluetooth, Climate Control, 17” Conical Black Alloys, Xenon Headlights, Electric Glass Sunroof, Rear Parking Sensors, FSH, 44000 Miles..........................................................£9295

If you are looking for anything specific that is not in stock please give us a call on 01929503115.

We have access to 100s of used cars of all makes and models including the latest Hybrids and Electric Cars.

You can also access the CAR FINDER page on our website.

The Purbeck Gazette

28

From The Kitchen Garden...

Pea Risotto

W

hen the weather is turning, instinctively I tend to think of the winter ahead. Plant growth markedly slows down already in August, but by September it’s really slow and although the soil is still warm, the daylight hours and sun strength are diminishing.

This naturally starts the process of looking back at the main growing season and thoughts on doing things better next time round. Of course, there’s only so much I, as the grower, can be in charge of, but success lies in the preparation months if not years ahead and it begins with the soil.

Ground preparation for next spring starts this September. So, as plots are becoming vacant, or just before, I try and sow a green manure mix as soon as possible, so the earth is not uncovered for a long period of time and with a clever mix I get nitrogen fixers as well as providing humus once incorporated into the soil.

Some plots I cover with a thick layer of homemade compost, although I’m well aware of the huge potential of unwanted germination of all sorts. The trick is to let it all germinate and then cover the lot with black landscaping fabric, which means no light equals no growth. However, that in turn really encourages a slug population increase…I’m also having my fingers crossed to get loads of seaweed on the ground this autumn. Sometimes it’s tricky to do the right thing at the right time and years of experience can help, although every year is still different.

Looking back at this year’s main growing season with the cold and dry start, things haven’t turned out too badly. At one time in July, I was convinced blight was on the cards, destroying promising tomato and potato crops, but luckily it didn’t happen. I feel I have been fortunate cultivating in this spot, when I hear other small growers battling with flooded beds, high winds and unbearable heat.

I’ve had a few disappointing results and the battle to keep the weeds down seems never ending. This also is a good time to be grateful of the plentiful and healthy veg crops I achieved and through experience, improved growing conditions and yields. Sometimes I trip myself up when dwelling on the stuff that hasn’t performed as I hoped and learn to let it go and move on.

I’m eagerly awaiting my seed garlic delivery and can’t wait to plant lots of it this autumn, as this year I didn’t grow any garlic at all. I ‘m missing it so much and so do my customers! I suspected I might not have a proper drying place ready in time and I was right. Growing is only one aspect of this tasty and healthy vegetable but if it’s not dried properly, it won’t last through the winter months. The garlic plot is ready and waiting and hopefully this batch will have time to get their root systems established before winter and then really get going once daytime hours are on the increase again.

Growing in a netted tunnel has proved a very effective way to get stunning runner and borlotti bean yields. This happened purely by chance, as I was too late putting on the new plastic skin as the old one got ripped in the February storm. A big piece of netting was handy and with little effort, on it went. Even with high and gusty winds these last months, the plants and supports stayed up and the deer lost out nibbling on the delicious bean shoots…. However, they gorged themselves on the maincrop peas

By Regula Wright, Godlingston Manor Kitchen Garden and mange tout. With this in mind, I’m considering replacing some ripped plastic tunnels with netting instead - let’s see how it stands up to winter weather…..

PEA RISOTTO (serves 4) Ingredients: 300 g risotto rice 1 onion, chopped 1 knob of butter 1 glass dry white wine 3 handfuls of peas (fresh or frozen) 800 ml vegetable stock 1 bunch chopped parsley 2 handfuls grated cheese Method: • fry the onion in the butter • add the risotto rice and cook over a low heat for a minute, stirring all the time until the rice looks glossy but not brown • add the white wine and cook until nearly evaporated • add half the stock and cook over a medium heat for 20minutes, stirring often and gradually add the remaining stock a little a time and the peas and cook until the rice has absorbed all the liquid.

• check the rice is cooked but still has a little ‘bite’ to it • add half the cheese while still on the hob and stir it in • plate up, sprinkle the rest of the cheese and the chopped parsley on each portion.

The Purbeck Gazette

Natural Matters

29

Reptiles

By John Garner

I

recently viewed two similar images on a well-known social media platform. One was of a rattle snake coiled up next to a swimming pool.

One was of an adder coiled up by a tent. One was all the way from Texas and the other from just around the corner from here. Both were very impressive. Such is the power of social media.

Moments later I got a video of the adder slithering away. It was pretty cool. I have only seen our most poisonous snake on a few rare occasions.

This is a shame because it is a thing of great beauty. The rattle snake I have never seen, but they are a lot more common in certain parts of America than adders are here.

If one bites you, it might be painful (an adder that is. A rattler I’m informed will be excruciatingly painful), but it’s not going to finish you off. An Australian friend laughs at the idea that it is venomous. Of the 25 most deadly snakes in the world, 21 are indigenous to Australia.

For example, the Eastern Brown snake will clot your blood and you’ll probably collapse within a couple of minutes unless you get the antivenom pretty sharpish. That would focus the mind on a walk, I can tell you. Another one to avoid is the Southern Death Adder in Australia for obvious reasons. You know where you are with an Australian snake.

You don’t really have to worry too much about the adder. They will try to avoid you and only bite as a last resort, so I read. This means they are quite hard to find and coupled with the excellent camouflage, is probably the reason why I haven’t seen that many. That and the fact that I walk around in a complete daze most of the time.

You should, however, see lots of lizards around here. Unlike the common seal, the common lizard lives up to its name. I’ve seen loads of late, but they still give me a bit of a thrill. I reckon I still associate them with documentaries about desert regions and I often hear David Attenborough in my mind when I see one.

One of the greatest things ever, and not just about the lizard, is that if it feels threatened by a predator, it can shed its tail, which will continue to move to distract the would-be attacker. Over time it will grow a new one.

Pretty well evolved, I think. I don’t know anyone from Indonesia where the largest lizards in the world come from.

The Komodo dragon typically reaches about ten feet and weighs in at over 300 pounds. That’s a big lizard and I doubt it has to shed its tail as you’re going to need a pretty handy predator for one of them.

If you’re really lucky you might see a sand lizard, although these are rare and as they burrow underground, you’ll do well to see one in the open.

Some lizards can stand incredible heat and exist in the hottest regions of the Earth, such as the Sahara Desert. Well, give it time and they might have to here as well.

I don’t think I’ve ever seen a smooth snake and apparently, they look a bit like an adder but they’re actually a constrictor. Now as it turns out I do know a couple of Brazilian folk, but I have not had the chance to get their opinions on our native constrictor snake which will coil up around small lizards and other very small animals with a view to lunch shortly afterwards.

Knowing them I would imagine their reaction to be one of polite disdain.

Fairly recently an Anaconda measuring 33 feet was discovered in Brazil.

That would give anyone a nasty squeeze. They’ve been known to eat deer!

Our biggest snake is the grass snake. These are very beautiful snakes and their response to predation is to play dead. They also try to deter unwanted attention by secreting a noxious and foul-smelling substance from their anal glands. I remember a few elderly relatives from my youth that employed similar tactics.

Lastly there’s the slow worm. Not a snake or indeed a worm. It’s actually a legless lizard. I’ve seen a few of these in the garden fairly recently. They can live for up to twenty years, which is pretty good. Inevitably there are lizards elsewhere in the world that can live a lot longer. The Tuatara Lizard in New Zealand can live for over a hundred years.

I’ve recently been watching the Olympics. Team GB did pretty well. We won gold medals in diving, swimming, horsey stuff, sailing and lots of other sports.

We won’t in all likelihood win any medals for the largest, most poisonous, longest lived or indeed most diverse in any of the reptile categories. But there are a decent number of fascinating reptiles in Dorset and should you come across any, they will reward you by being marvellous in their own right.

Picture: Male Adder, by John Felstead

30

The Purbeck Gazette

Planet Purbeck Festival: 20th - 26th September

See main advert details, facing page. he environmental group Planet Purbeck says it is “thrilled” by the area’s rousing response to its first festival. More than sixty groups or businesses are set to stage at least seventy events across the week-long festival from September 20th to 26th.

Joint organiser, Rob Waitt, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to see how the community has reacted to the idea. They have been queueing up to offer events and to join our team to make sure it all happens. It was an ambitious plan but the response has been awesome and actually pretty overwhelming. The idea was to put on a festival by the community for the community – and it seems to be working out like that.”

The events, many of which are free to attend, will all have an environmental twist to reflect Planet Purbeck’s twin mission to tackle the climate emergency while protecting and enhancing the peninsula’s natural beauty and wildlife.

They will take place all over Purbeck, including Wareham, Corfe Castle and Langton Matravers, and will culminate in a grand gathering and children’s parade in Swanage, where a special festival hub will be set up at the Mowlem Theatre for arts, crafts, films, live music and talks by renowned international speakers.

Highlights of the week include a photographic competition at the Blue Pool, tasters for forest bathing and wild water swimming, butterfly and moth surveys, a rockpool ramble at Kimmeridge, an art auction, nature trails, boat trips to discover reed wildlife, stone carving demonstrations and fun teach-ins on the ecology of the sand dunes at Studland.

Organisations involved include Greenpeace, the National Trust, Oceans To Earth, Monkey World, Dorset Wildlife Trust, the RSPB, Natural England, Sustainable Swanage, Sustainable Wareham and Langton Planet Action, plus many lesser-known groups.

The Mowlem Theatre hub, open for three days over the festival’s weekend, will feature films and talks on farming, wildlife reintroduction and marine matters such as fishing, plastic pollution and coastal erosion.

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National Geographic explorer and ‘guerilla geographer’ Dan Raven-Ellison will take centre stage on the Friday, dubbed Earth Day, with Ocean Day on the Saturday, followed by Sunday’s Children and Young People Day. Rob said: “We have been amazed at the variety of events that have been offered to us, including many unusual ones that have come as a pleasant surprise. Some, such as litter picks and nature trails, will be familiar to everyone. But who will have heard of things like an exhibition about the benefits of dandelions that is being staged by the Tom’s Field campsite outside Swanage? Or evening hikes to spot bats? It’s great and I’ll be going to many of them personally because they sound so intriguing.”

The festival is approaching fast and many of the events are number-limited and require reservation, so anyone wishing to attend is recommended to book soon. Details can be found on the Planet Purbeck website at: www. planetpurbeck.org Pictured: Fun teach-ins about the Studland sand dunes will feature at the Planet Purbeck Festival

Purbeck Wilder Grazing Project Reaches Milestone

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he Purbeck Heaths are nationally and internationally important for rare and threatened wildlife. To ensure that the amazing diversity of wildlife that inhabits the heaths can not only survive but thrive, a partnership of the RSPB, National Trust, Natural England and Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty are expanding the naturalised grazing system at National Trust’s Hartland Moor and Natural England’s Stoborough Heath to encompass RSPB Arne.

The project will create a ‘mini New Forest’ in the area between Stoborough, Corfe Castle and Arne near Wareham, with cattle, ponies and pigs roaming across an area of 1370 ha at the heart of the Purbeck Heaths National Nature Reserve.

Different breeds of cattle, ponies and pigs will be used to create the greatest possible variety of grazing and trampling across the area. By allowing animals to range freely across a large area, they will both be able to restore natural patterns of habitat and help to spread different species across the landscape.

This type of grazing system used to be much more common and examples still exist today, including nearby in the New Forest.

In Purbeck, the partnership will be more than doubling the area currently

under such a grazing system and also introducing pigs, for their unique ability to assist this natural process.

David Brown, Ecologist with the National Trust, said: “It’s incredibly exciting to see plans that we have worked on for very many years come to fruition. Cattle, ponies and pigs have a unique impact on their environment and by giving them free range across a large landscape we will be unleashing their power to create a dynamic mosaic of habitats as they trample, root, wallow and graze.”

The project secured funding last year from the Wytch Farm Landscape and Access Enhancement Fund and from the Government’s Green Recovery Fund. After lots of planning and preparation, the project has now reached the exciting milestone of installing the cattle grids that are essential to the functioning of the naturalised grazing system.

Seven new cattle grids will be installed and one existing cattle grid will be removed. Work will start at the end of August and will continue through to December with teams from Dorset Highways working through a programme to install each grid. There will be some diversions and the possibility of minor delays but the team will be working hard to keep these to a minimum.

Councillor Ray Bryan, Dorset Council Portfolio Holder for Highways, Travel and Environment commented: “It’s testament to the quality of our natural environment and the collaboration between organisations that this project was chosen for significant Government investment against stiff competition from across England. In the face of a nature and climate crisis, this project provides a win:win:win for nature, climate and people.”

Peter Robertson, Senior Sites Manager at RSPB Arne, said: “To be working so closely with our neighbours, literally taking down the fences between our land and land owned by the National Trust and Natural England, is the culmination of lots of partnership working over many years.

“Nature doesn’t respect boundaries and we’re excited about the opportunity to create such a significant, joined up landscape for wildlife.

It will also be an incredible landscape for people to visit and enjoy and to be able to see how it changes and evolves over time.”

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The Purbeck Gazette

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Record Salmon Numbers Recorded At River Frome

“Signs are positive” as Dorset’s River Frome sees the highest number of young salmon leave the river in eight years ollowing successive years of decline in adult salmon on the River Frome, numbers of young salmon leaving the river in 2020 to go to sea were 40% up on the ten-year average, according to the latest figures in a fisheries report launched today. An estimated 13,062 salmon smolts left the River Frome, the highest number of emigrating smolts recorded since 2013.

The annual Fisheries Research Review, published by the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT), shows signs of hope for the long-term future of salmon in Dorset’s River Frome. Time will tell how many of these fish return to the river from the North Atlantic in 2021 and 2022, but experts say signs are as positive as they have been for some time.

“As well as the high number of smolts (young salmon leaving the river for their marine journey) leaving the river, it’s encouraging that they were larger than average too, making them better equipped for life at sea”, says Rasmus Lauridsen, Head of GWCT Fisheries Research.

Previous research by the GWCT has shown that larger smolts are more than three times more likely to return from the sea than smaller ones, so it is hoped that the adult salmon passing through their Wareham-based monitoring station on their return will be higher than in recent years

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when they are back from the Atlantic this summer or next. “The past three years have seen below-average numbers of adult salmon returning to the Frome”, adds Rasmus, “although our monitoring in 2020 showed a surprisingly good number of the smolts leaving in 2018 returning, having spent two years at sea.”

It isn’t all good news for our much-loved salmon, however. Further research has shown a combination of warm winters and cool springs negatively impact the recruitment of juvenile salmon in the predominantly groundwater-fed River Frome. This builds on previous GWCT research on the predominantly rainwater-fed rivers of Wales where we found similar impacts of temperature, highlighting how similar freshwater conditions in contrasting river types can significantly affect population dynamics.

These insights will be pivotal in planning future conservation measures, with the GWCT one of the founder members of the Missing Salmon Alliance, a group of organisations fighting to reverse the devastating collapse in wild Atlantic salmon around the UK. By combining expertise and data, coordinating activities and advocating effective management solutions they aim to help wild Atlantic salmon survive and thrive in our rivers and seas for future generations.

The review can be downloaded for free at www.gwct.org.uk/fisheriesreport.

Transforming Dorset’s Verges Into Wildlife Havens

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s part of the ‘Love Your Verge’ campaign, Dorset Council has published a series of videos to explain its approach to roadside management in Dorset.

Dorset Council has made changes to its verge management policy in recent years. Safety remains the top priority, so the approach strikes a balance between cutting verges regularly where needed for visibility and working to protect and enhance Dorset’s natural environment. It forms part of the Council's work to mitigate the declared Climate and Ecological Emergency.

Where safe, verges are cut less often and methods are used to increase biodiversity. The approach not only saves money and reduces carbon emissions, but it will also help to slow the growth rate of verges over time.

Verge maintenance prompts many questions and comments from residents.

While some people prefer verges to be kept short and neat, others love the wilder looking verges. The series of ‘Love Your Verge’ videos seek to clarify how verges are maintained and why. They explain the methods used to create a better environment for wildflowers to thrive, which is important for attracting pollinators. The videos are part of the popular ‘Love Your Verge’ campaign, a countywide collaboration between the Council’s Coast and Greenspace Service and Litter Free Dorset.

The campaign encourages residents and visitors to value verges and open spaces. Signs situated in specific locations around the county explain how open spaces are individually managed due to the specific local habitat, while aiming to reduce incidents of littering.

Cllr Ray Bryan, Dorset Council Portfolio Holder Highways, Travel and Environment, said: ‘Safety is our primary duty and our teams will continue to cut verges regularly where it’s needed. However, there are many miles of verges where there’s opportunity to manage in a way that’s more sympathetic to wildlife and ecology.

‘The loss of natural habitats is a major threat for pollinators. Leaving verges to grow for longer and encouraging wildflowers to thrive can provide a rich habitat to help compensate for this.

‘We hope the campaign will help to inform residents and visitors about Dorset Council’s approach to verge maintenance and why it’s so important for local wildlife populations. We are committed to a healthy environment and ensuring that future generations can enjoy our natural world and the wildlife that lives within it.’

To find out more about the Love your Verge campaign and watch the videos, visit litterfreedorset.co.uk/love-your-verge

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Gazette Gardening

Gardening to combat climate change with Simon Goldsack themselves. And finally guess what? Trees are good for your sense of well being and help cheer us up!

Autumn is the best time to plant a tree, between now and Christmas.

So have a little think about the size and shape you want your tree to be, whether you want flowers, what colour foliage you prefer and whether you want blossom, then come and talk to one of the garden experts at Holme, who can help you select the most suitable variety.

On Sunday 26th September, Holme will be hosting the organisation ‘Trees for Dorset’ as part of the Planet Purbeck Festival. Trees for Dorset are looking to partner with individuals and organisations to plant new woods and regenerate existing woodland so if you would like to call on their expertise, pop along between 10.30am and 4pm on the 26th September.

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n view of the damning UN report on climate change released at the beginning of August, I think it is finally sinking in that the time for action is now, so in the next few months I hope to provide a few tips how you can use your garden to help combat climate change and help protect you from the effects of increasing heatwaves, droughts and flooding.

Trees A tree will lock up carbon in its roots, trunk and branches as it grows but let’s face it, planting one tree in your garden is not going to do a lot to tackle climate change. However, if millions of gardeners across the country planted one or two more trees each, that would start to have a significant effect.

Trees physically change your garden by creating areas of shade and help to break the wind and provide shelter. They also filter toxins from the atmosphere and catch dust particles on their leaves.

Their wind breaking effect reduces heat loss from buildings in winter and the shading effect of a tree reduces solar gain in summer. The Mediterranean countries don’t think twice about planting the appropriate trees right against their houses to enhance these benefits. We should do more of this in Great Britain and choosing a deciduous tree for this purpose will provide shade in summer but let valuable light in for winter.

The shade of a tree also provides you with somewhere cool to sit during the increasing heatwaves we are forecast to experience. The shade is also good as it increases the range of plants you can grow, and a greater diversity of plants leads to more diverse wildlife.

Planting a tree does more than combat climate change. Wildlife also benefits as a tree provides shelter from predators, nesting sites and food in the form of insects and berries.

In terms of garden design trees provide stature, they can be used to frame a vista, to soften hard architectural features or even as a focal point

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September heralds the start of autumn which tends to be a good time for seeing spiders!

Recently matured male spiders begin seeking a female mate who prefers to remain in her web or burrow. One of our most recognisable arachnids is the Wasp or Tiger Spider. It has black and yellow stripes and creates a zig zag between the ‘spokes’ of its web threads. We still have some butterflies upon the wing, including Large and Small Whites, Meadow Browns and Red Admirals.

Other autumn indicators are the ripening fruits upon Blackberry, Blackthorn, Elder and Wild Bryony, as well as those of the few Apple and one Pear tree.

Hundreds of small migrant birds such as Wheatears, Redstarts, Whinchats and Whitethroats feed up on the rich crop of insects and seed heads of Wild Parsnip, Woolly Thistles and Teasels.

Elderberries are also greedily consumed, particularly by Blackcaps and Garden Warblers. With luck, a rare Wryneck or Red-backed Shrike may be glimpsed, while the sky should be scanned for passing birds of prey. Africa-bound Sand Martins and Swifts may attract the attention of a passing Hobby.

We are delighted to be hosting two events as part of the Purbeck International Chamber Music Festival. Both or these will be held in the Fine Foundation Gallery and tickets need be booked directly via www.picmf.org or call 0333 666 3366. On Thursday 2nd at 15:00 ‘Opening Light’ will feature Classical Music with Natalie Clein, the

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Carducci Quartet and guests. On Saturday 4th at 12:30pm, ‘Musical Fun’ is aimed at families. Whilst this is free, booking is essential and children must bring an adult.

The ‘Brushes with Colour’ exhibition runs from 13th-27th September, showing the work of Heather Macgregor, Dick Hewitson and Heather Gibbons. These three Dorset painters’ work responds to colour, through shape, line, pattern, and texture and should be a real treat for the eyes!

Two Ranger-led walks take place this month. ‘September Wildlife Walk’ with Senior Ranger Katie Black is a chance to look for migrant birds, late summer flowers and butterflies, while ‘George Burt’s Grand Plans’ offers the opportunity to discover the curious history of the Durlston Pleasure Grounds and Castle with Project Leader, Ali Tuckey.

We also have two Stargazing evenings - the first on the 12th starts at 8pm then second on the 25th at 7.30pm. Join the Wessex Astronomical Society to use telescopes to view the Moon, Jupiter, Saturn, Andromeda galaxy, Nebulae, Milky Way and the autumn Constellations. No booking, so please pay on the night. Weather dependent, so if it looks like rain or thick cloud, give us a ring on 01929 424443 to check if it’s going ahead.

Visit the Durlston website: https://www.durlston.co.uk/ Visit the Seventhwave website: https://7eventhwave.com/

Margaret Green Animal Rescue

Welcome to Margaret Green Animal Rescue! e’re happy to say our Church Knowle Rehoming and Visitor Centre is open again. Our Dog Show last month was a huge success with fun activities and classes running throughout the day. A big thanks to all of you who attended. We are thrilled to share that over £10,000 was raised at the event, which is a huge achievement for us and we are so pleased with the outcome! A big thanks to all of you who attended.

We’d love to see you at our Visitor Centre and so would our animals – they’ve missed you. Take part in the Visitor Trail, relax and reflect in our tranquil Garden of Remembrance, grab a cup of tea and wander through the site which covers thirty-five acres of beautiful Purbeck countryside.

It is a unique home to cats, horses, donkeys, pigs, sheep, goats, rabbits,

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chickens, ducks and many more species. You can take the opportunity to meet our Sponsor Animals and find out about ways you can support us. If you would like to find out more about sponsoring an animal, please visit our website. It is just £5 per month and will make a huge difference!

We hope you enjoy your visit.

Please see our website for opening hours: www.margaretgreenanimalrescue. org.uk/ Boarding Board your cats with us and help save another. We offer fabulous 5 star boarding facilities for cats at our Church Knowle Centre. Dogs can also enjoy their stay at our Lincoln Farm Centre. Your pet is sure to be spoilt with love whilst with us. Our boarding fees go directly back into helping the rescue animals at the centre.

Please see our website for prices: www.margaretgreenanimalrescue. org.uk/

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Arts & Entertainment

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Welcoming The Jingling Of Bells And Fine Music!

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wanage Folk Festival is ready to set lips humming and feet dancing this year, after last year’s enforced hiatus.

The festival, from 10th – 12th September, has rebooked practically all of the acts due to appear in the 2020 festival including headliners, venerated ex-bellowhead, Jon Boden, and the vibrant young band, Sam Kelly and the Lost Boys.

As well as a great musical line up, there will also be over forty dance sides swaying in the streets. Sea shanties, music and dance workshops and the usual lively marquee concerts will also return for this festival.

2020 tickets are valid for the 2021 Festival and tickets are now on sale via: swanagefolkfestival.com or Eventbrite.

Granny’s Attic, the Churchfitters and Hot Rats, featuring Feast of Fiddles virtuoso, Ian Cutler, are also in the music line up as well as numerous other acts.

Festival organiser, Margaret Tyrer, says: “We have obviously had to watch and wait now the festival will go ahead in September. We are delighted with the music line up and very grateful that most of the 2020 acts have agreed to come this year.

“We have already heard from over sixty dance sides so the streets should be as lively as ever. We are all really looking forward to the festival and hope people will join us.”

More information is on the festival website at swanagefolkfestival.com or you can email the festival at: swanagefolkfestival@gmail.com

Threads At The Grand Returns For 2021!

Wednesday 15th to Sunday 19th September 2021, 9.30am to 4pm hreads at the Grand is back!

After our enforced cancellation last year, the Purbeck branch of West Country Embroiderers are delighted to be able to hold their embroidery, textile and mixed media exhibition at the beautiful, newly refurbished Grand Hotel, Swanage, again this year.

Whilst we have been unable to meet over the last eighteen months, our members have certainly not been idle.

We have produced some lovely individual pieces of work and will have two new group projects on display.

Many of the exhibits will be for sale, along with some cards and smaller

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items as well. The ever-popular Tombola will also be back. Entry is free and members of the group will be in attendance to help if you wish to know more about our group and its activities.

Why not take your time and enjoy a drink or coffee in the spacious lounge area of the hotel which, due to recent refurbishment, now displays some of its original Victorian features once more? Contact us at: 01202 423353

OCTOBER EDITION DEADLINE

NOON, 10th SEPTEMBER - EMAIL: ed@purbeckgazette.co.uk

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IT’S HAPPENING! The Return Of The Blues

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any thanks for all the encouragement since the last Swanage Blues Festival in March 2020. Concerned about the viability of holding one this year, I asked subscribers to our newsletter if they were coming in October, and the result was largely yes. I asked what brings them here and the answers were tremendous, for example: • Four days of unbridled fun, music and laughter • The wonderful atmosphere Swanage locals and the festival create • Meeting up with friends and making new ones, listening to the best music from the most excellent musicians and the whole atmosphere • Everyone makes you feel welcome • I fell in love with the festival on my first visit, the music, the people, the place and so much more. There is something in the air that makes it a lovely, fun-filled weekend of great music, great people and great times.

Robert Hokum, musician and curator of the Ealing Blues Festival (the longest running festival of its kind in London) told me he is often asked about us on his travels.

Over the years he has introduced many top London bands here, or ‘Ealing On Sea’ as some call it! This time I asked him to programme the whole weekend at Swanage Bay View Holiday Park, which has rejoined us after a few years’ absence and features a superb concert of the ‘Best of the British’ blues, soul and roots scene.

Most of the usual favourites will be with us in most of the usual venues, and I’m so pleased for their support which enables us to bring extra business into the whole town out of season.

It’s still only £10 for a wristband to show your support. I’m told that wearing one helps bring like-minded people together and helps festival fans recognise each other. For sale on the website or from venues and other outlets in Swanage.

More details on the website, together with a full schedule of events and how to join the mailing list – www.swanage-blues.org Photo top right: DubbleXposure Photography

OUR PICK OF THE PROGRAMME

For the full list of performances, please purchase a programme and support the continuation of the festival!

DAY TIME am/pm ARTIST VENUE Sunday 3.00pm Stompin' Dave Duo, Black Swan Friday 8.30pm Zoe Schwarz Blue Commotion, Grand Hotel Saturday 2.30pm Robin Bibi Band Acoustic Jam Session, Grand Hotel Saturday 8.30pm Back Porch, Grand Hotel Sunday 2.30-5.00 Hugh Budden & The Blue Chords unplugged, Grand Hotel Sunday 8.30-11.00 Hugh Budden & The Blue Chords electric FESTIVAL FINALE, Grand Hotel Saturday 2.30pm The Fabulous Duck Brothers, IoP Golf Club Thursday 8.30pm Marky Dawson; Hugh Budden & Robert Hokum, Legion Friday 2.00-3.45pm Back Porch, Legion Friday 5.30-7.15pm Stompin' Dave Trio, Legion Friday 9.00pm Blue Touch, Legion Saturday 12.30-3pm Pete Harris Blues Band with Jon Vaughan and Ray Drury, Legion Saturday 4.45-7.15pm Paint It Blue, Legion Saturday 9.00pm Robin Bibi Band, Legion Sunday 12.30-4pm Robin Bibi Band Jam Session, Legion Sunday 9.00pm Tommy Allen's Trafficker, Legion Friday 9.00pm Will Killeen, Old Stables Sunday 2.30pm Will Killeen, Old Stables Thursday 9.00pm Ray Drury & Jon Walsh, Red Lion Friday 2.00pm Open Mic Dave Griffiths, Red Lion Friday 9.00pm Tommy Allen & Jon Vaughan, Red Lion Saturday 2.00pm Open Mic Dave Griffiths, Red Lion Saturday 9.00pm Fabulous Fezheads, Red Lion Sunday 1.00pm Open Mic Dave Griffiths, Red Lion Sunday 8.00pm Pete Harris & Jon Vaughan, Red Lion Friday 6.00pm Pete Harris & Ray Drury, Tawny’s Friday 8.15pm Pete Harris & Ray Drury, Tawny’s Saturday 6.00pm Lewis Cohen & Bruno Pichler, Tawny’s Saturday 8.15pm Lewis Cohen & Bruno Pichler, Tawny’s Friday 4.30pm Robin Bibi Band, White Horse Friday 10.00pm The Milk Men, White Horse Saturday 10.00pm The Mustangs, White Horse Sunday 6.00pm Northsyde, White Horse Friday 9.00pm John McClean & the Clan, White Swan Saturday 3.00pm Dawg 'n' Bonez, White Swan Saturday 9.00pm Chicago 9 Rhythm & Blues Band, White Swan Sunday 3.00pm Tommy Allen & Jon Vaughan, White Swan Sunday 9.00pm Doghouse Blues, White Swan Saturday 1.00pm John McClean & the Clan, YHA

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A Delightful Month Of Purbeckian Arts And Crafts!

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ith Purbeck Art Weeks moved to September this year as a result of the pandemic, we now have a glorious month of delighting in all things art and craft orientated ahead of us!

We have a range of artists opening up their studios - details available on the PAW website, as well as a few really special exhibitions going on.

The remarkable gathering of artists and craftspeople operating from Sandy Hill Studios and the Boilerhouse Gallery in Corfe Castle will be primed and ready to welcome you to the studios and gallery, where you’ll find an impressive range of professional arts to purchase and take home with you.

We hear that the soft refrains of jazz and blues can be heard on occasion, with impromptu pop-up musical offerings taking place at Sandy Hill Studios when the weather allows, so it’s certainly worth dropping in if you’re passing, whatever the weather.

Up at our heritage stone carving centre, Burngate in Langton Matravers, it’s all change as the centre moves forward, offering even more classes!

Burngate is delighted to introduce their new Centre Manager, Claire Denby (pictured, below). A Swanage newcomer, Claire comes to Burngate from a long background in youth work and children services. She a keen walker and cyclist and will often be seen cycling to work.

Claire says: “I’m really excited about being the Centre Manager and am looking forward to working with the trustees, tutors and volunteers to firmly put the centre on the map for the place to learn about stone carving and the heritage of Purbeck stone. Watch this space!”

Claire is part of the changes at Burngate, with new trustees and a stronger business model to keep the Centre as the place for stone carving courses in Purbeck.

The Centre has just reinvented

the small cafe (you should see that view!) with proper homemade cake, good coffee from a local roaster and of course, Dorset Tea. There are other plans too - keep an eye on the website and social media for new educational projects and partnerships. Did you know you can now book and pay for all courses online?

Burngate is a great place to work - and to volunteer. If you could spare a morning or afternoon a week, Claire would love to hear from you - there are vacancies for helping in the office, welcoming course participants and serving tea and coffee in the café. If you have time on your hands and would like to support a local charity which is a treasured part of the Purbeck tourism and heritage scene, get in touch!

Meanwhile, Laura Evans and Anne Reynolds are inviting you to pop round to see them, exhibiting their work under PAW venue Studio 7 - find the full details on the PAW website. Laura Evan’s Studio Gallery is based in the back room of the Purbeck Frame Workshop in Wareham.

Laura is a fine artist and printmaker, specialising in bespoke hand printed

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lampshades. Her paintings are inspired by the ebb and flow of the sea and land. She is joined by Anne Reynolds who is a textile artist, with a background as a freelance designer.

Anne’s interest now is abstract needlepoint pieces focusing on colour, shape, balance and harmony. The Studio Gallery also sells small locally made gifts and soaps, so it’s certainly worth a visit!

Durlston’s Fine Foundation Gallery plays host to a stunning exhibition under the title ‘Brushes with Colour’. The exhibition runs from September 13th – September 27th and welcomes everyone to pop up to Durlston and enjoy the stunning work on offer. ‘Colour: an individual choice, a universal dilemma, the vital ingredient!’

Brushes with Colour brings together three Dorset artists whose individual response to colour is fundamental to their work and particular subject matter. The vibrancy and richness of Heather MacGregor’s work evokes an immediate response as it intrigues, motivates and captures our imagination.

Patterns and shapes seem to collide while interpreting a particular visual meaning to each work.

In contrast to these, a more quietly considered, very much focused way of working is presented in the paintings by Dick Hewitson, providing a subtle range of tonal effects, often with quite close harmony shades to portray his chosen subject matter.

Heather Gibbons uses colour to convey the different moods and atmosphere of ‘place and time’ relating to her local surroundings in the Isle of Purbeck. To break the spell: still-life and even self portrait may sometimes interrupt her usual path of inspiration!

This exhibition gives an insight into how colour affects the individual practice of these three artists, so head up to Durlston and enjoy!

The Mowlem Theatre in Swanage, now under the care of fabulous, proactive new trustees, has a packed and varied programme for September, including the welcome return of Hordern Ciani and the Swanage Rep. Co. The theatre has also joined forces with Planet Purbeck and offers three events based around this new, exciting community-based ecological festival - Earth Day, Ocean Day and two free events: ‘Thinking Globally’ and ‘Acting Locally’ on 25th September.

Remember to book your tickets for the theatre, get out and about and enjoy the arts and crafts we have available on our fair and unbeatable island and enjoy all that September has to offer!

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Matron’s Round

Our Local Hospitals’ Monthly Column

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ichelle Penny has been kind enough to tell us about her journey in becoming Nursing Associate in the Outpatient Department at Swanage Hospital: “I joined the Swanage hospital Day Surgery / Endoscopy team in 2013. Despite being fairly new to healthcare, I was enthusiastic to learn, and amazingly given a chance to join this specialised Day Surgery Unit team and made to feel a part of it.

“The Sisters on the unit were dedicated to ensuring high quality care for our patients and focused on developing us as a team and also individually. For myself I was encouraged to develop many clinical skills, enabling me to progress within the unit.

I was also supported by the trust to undertake academic qualifications completing a diploma in perioperative care and more recently a foundation degree through a two-year apprenticeship course to become a registered Nurse Associate.

“The Nurse Associate is a fairly new and evolving role within the NHS, created to give clinical support to registered nursing staff allowing them to focus on more complex care. The course through external placements and opportunities to work with other departments provided experience of, and some insight into different areas and services the trust provides. Throughout, everyone I encountered was warm, friendly and supportive making me feel welcome and ensuring every opportunity was an enjoyable learning experience.

“Arrival of the covid pandemic resulted in many changes, the Day Surgery was closed, and many hospital staff redeployed. This was a difficult time staff having to adapt not only to working in unfamiliar areas but also to strict protocols for the protection of staff and patients. Working in a community hospital where staff are more familiar, I feel enabled us to support each other more effectively during this time.

“I have been fortunate working at Swanage, my role has been varied and interesting and I have been supported to develop. Recently I became a member of the Outpatients team, offering a new set of exciting challenges and opportunities as part of this enthusiastic dedicated team.”

Well done Michelle!

Until next time, take care!

Matron Donna.

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Sports Chiropractic

hiropractors have been involved in the treatment of sports people and sports-related injuries from the very beginning of the profession. They see patients of all ages and abilities with a range of acute and chronic conditions. Many chiropractors now work in professional and elite sport.

Chiropractors spend a long time in their training understanding the biomechanics of the body and many chiropractors go on to complete further post graduate training in sports therapies and sports injury management. Techniques used are carefully selected to each individual and will be adapted to suit each patient. The treatment may include the use of sports massage, Kinesio tape, ultrasound, laser therapy and exercises specific to the injury.

New patients tend to visit a chiropractor for crisis care when they have sustained an injury and are in pain, but they soon learn the benefits of a regular maintenance programme and pre-tournament care.

With sports care, along with general chiropractic care, your chiropractor is not just concerned with the treatment of sports injuries, but is concerned about how to prevent them in the first place. Prevention may come from a change of posture or seating arrangements, or by identifying a mechanical dysfunction which you may not be aware of, but is stopping you from performing to your maximum capability. For those involved in sports, it does not matter if you are a professional or play sports for fun and well-being, chiropractic care will be appropriate.

If you would like to understand how chiropractic may help you contact Paul Hind on 07973 308829 or go to: www.purbeckchiropractic.com

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Hello From Swanage Medical Practice News from Swanage Medical Practice

Swanage Medical Practice News - The virus and vaccine s of 13th August, covid cases for Dorset is up to 303.1 individuals per 100,000. This has increased from 137.6 per 100,000 as of the 8th July.

All adults aged 18 years and over can now book their vaccine via the Government website: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronaviruscovid-19/coronavirus-vaccination/book-coronavirus-vaccination/ As we all move forward with the roadmap out of restrictions and for us, this means an extremely challenging time ahead. We are here to support the most vulnerable and need to protect our workforce to ensure we can maintain services for our patients. With your ongoing support, we will continue to do this as safely as we can. Therefore, these safety measures will remain: Screening Questions –Our staff will continue to ask covid-19 screening questions before allowing you into the building.

Face Covering – We feel sure you will want to help protect others and therefore, we expect all our patients to continue to wear a face covering when coming to the Practice (with the exception of those who are exempt from wearing a face covering) and our Practice staff will continue to wear PPE to help protect each other and you.

Social Distancing – Social distancing will still be required in the practice.

We have to protect the most vulnerable of our patients and know you will understand that we can’t yet have a full waiting room, or an overwhelmed reception area full of people.

Appointments – We offer telephone appointments with our GPs, Advanced Nurse Practitioners and Paramedic. They will arrange for you to be seen face to face if appropriate. Some treatment room appointments remain as telephone consultations, other appointments will be offered face to face. eConsults Online – We offer eConsults which are available via our Practice website: www.swanagemedical.org.uk

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CHIROPODY Rachel Ciantar Registered with The College Podiatry & HPCP

Home Visits & Clinic Appointments Comprehensive foot care Diabetic Patient Care

2 Daisy May Arcade, King’s Road East, Swanage

Contact 07979 840542

Free Lateral Flow Tests – 1 in 3 people don’t have symptoms of covid-19 but can still infect others. Our staff take regular lateral flow tests to ensure that asymptomatic covid is detected early and helps reduce the spread of the virus in our Practice. You too can take regular Lateral Flow tests, available free of charge from your pharmacist. We have always worked on the basis that any of the covid symptoms trump a negative lateral flow test.

You must get a PCR test if your lateral flow test is positive or you have any of the following covid-19 symptoms: • a high temperature • a new, continuous cough • a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste Look after yourself – During these challenging times it’s really important to take care of your physical and mental health. The pandemic is having an impact on everyone’s lives, you might feel low, worried, anxious, or be concerned about your health or that of those close to you.

Remember this is a difficult time for everyone and sharing with family and friends how you are feeling and the things you are doing to cope can help them too. Your physical health has a big impact on how you are feeling emotionally and mentally. It can be easy to fall into unhealthy patterns of behaviour which can make you feel worse. Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals and drink enough water.

Doing exercise and other physical activity can have a positive impact on your mood, improve your sleep, and reduce stress and anxiety. There are lots of easy ways to get moving like walking or gardening Useful resources about your physical and mental wellbeing can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-forthe-public-on-mental-health-and-wellbeing Practice News Dr Watson and Dr Clark have now retired from the Practice. We thank them for the support, hard work and commitment they have given the Practice team and patients over the years. They will be very much missed. Their patients have been transferred to Dr Andrew McIntosh and Dr Linda Arthur. We warmly welcome Ellie-Jay Lawton, who joins our Phlebotomy team.

Our Practice will be offering flu vaccinations to eligible patients. The first cohort of patients will be those 65 years and over, patients who are considered “at risk” and then the 50-64 year olds. We will also be inviting eligible children. Patients will receive a letter or text in due course to arrange their appointment.

Thank you!... from everyone at the Practice.

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Blast From The Past!

This month, A Decade Ago...

ur September 2011 edition proclaimed itself as being the ‘biggest edition ever’, with sixty-four pages crammed full of local news, views, events and opinions. Despite the onward march of social media, print remained at the forefront of communication on a local level.

In the years following our September 2011 ‘biggest ever’ edition, we crept up to a staggering eighty pages per month, thanks to significant support from local advertisers who understood not only the importance of print advertising for business, but who also understood the link between advertising in a local, independent paper and the publication of community editorial. The revenue raised from advertising directly pays for the words to be published in each edition - therefore, our advertisers literally support the wider community and enable open communication. The same is true today. The businesses you see advertising their wares, services and establishments support you, our readers, and print your words.

Our September 2011 edition reported on the ‘horrific’ traffic delays we had experienced that summer - it was estimated that the journey from Swanage to Poole would take an average of one hour and thirty minutes, simply as a result of the number of vehicles on the road. Ten years later and these lengthy delays now seem to be accepted as common place - in July 2021, it took our Editor over forty minutes to travel from Wareham to Corfe Castle, testament that nothing has improved as far as our summer traffic levels go.

Local retailers reported an increase in footfall over the summer period in 2011, noting that this increase actually came with a decrease in takings. This suggested that whilst visitors were still choosing the Isle of Purbeck as their getaway destination, they were reluctant to spend as they had in previous years. The rising costs of fuel, accommodation and parking were thought to be partly to blame for the reluctance to spend in local establishments whilst enjoying a break in the area.

In our September 2011 edition we carried an article regarding the apparent discrimination faced by students attending sixth form. Letters had been sent out informing parents that the costs of getting their children to school was to increase. All students who did not live within walking distance of Purbeck School were asked to ‘apply’ for their child’s places on the school bus. Due to cuts at the then-Dorset County Council, far fewer funded places were available. Those not eligible for free places would have to find £400 per child, per year, to get their children to school. It was then found that there were not even enough bus places for all those students who required transport in order to get to sixth form, meaning many did not have a place on the bus - paid or not.

A subsidised W&D bus had to take up the slack - although using this service would also cost an average of £400 per child, per school year.

Having promised all local parents in the 1970s that their children would NOT be discriminated against if they lived in outlaying areas (from Purbeck School), this promise was clearly not kept by Dorset County Council.

With no other schooling option locally for attending a sixth form, many parents struggled to afford to ensure their children could attend school.

Celebrating in September 2011 was ‘Golden Girls’ in Swanage, with their ‘30 Golden Years’ anniversary. A fashion show was held at Swanage Bay View to mark the occasion. Long-term shop owner, Mary (pictured below, centre), selected a wide range of local fashion models to display the chosen outfits and the community were invited along to celebrate the longevity of this much-loved local establishment. Golden Girls was situated where the newer (second) Ellis Jones office now is in Swanage High Street.

Local couple, John and Jacqui (travelling in their old campervan) finally made

The Purbeck Gazette

it out of Purbeck and updated us all with their adventures in Belgium - eating too many waffles, visiting Bruges, Flanders, Ghent and Antwerp as they drove through Holland and Belgium on the start of their grand aventure.

In September 2011 we delighted in running an article on the Purbeck Independent Simpleton’s Society (P.I.S.S.), who met in the Kings Arms, Wareham. The club had recently welcomed Keith Farrell from S.H.I.T. (Stoke’s Humanitarian Independent Trust for Simpletons), with the singular aim of deciding whose sand was best - Purbeck’s or Stoke’s. An inevitable public ‘sand dance’ was undertaken (pictured, below), after which it was decided that Stoke’s sample of sand was better for dancing on, thus giving the Northerners ‘something to export in these times of national financial hardship’...... There is no place quite like Purbeck and the Purbeckians who reside on this fair isle!

The Purbeck Gazette

Spotlight Event Diary

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Diary Entries are FREE if your event is FREE. If you charge, then it’s £5 plus VAT per entry, per month. DEADLINE for OCT is noon, 9th SEPT 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.

SEPTEMBER 2021

WEEKLY EVENTS

EVERY MONDAY 09.00 U3A Table Tennis Group meet at Harmans Cross VH. 09.30 Under 2.5 years old group. Till 11am. at Parish Hall, Wm. 09.45 Toddler Club URC, Sw. Till 11.15 10.00 Table Tennis Club Sw FC All ages/abilities £2.50 Till noon. 480093 10.30 Flowers with Liz at the Purbeck Workshop in Wool. The Workshop provides craft activities free of charge to those touched by cancer - friends and family are welcome too. Unit 6, Woolbridge Business Centre, East Burton Rd, Wool. BH20 6HG. www.purbeckworkshop.org 07757 776907. Email: richris95@gmail.com 13.00 Play and Learn at Wareham’s Children’s Centre, Streche Rd, Wm. Till 2.45pm 13.00 Under 1s and Tums at Chapel Lane, Swanage. Till 3pm 14.00 Pins and Needles at Harmans Cross VH. 14.00 Swanage Digital Champions. Support people in the community to use the internet and gain basic online skills. Booking essential on 01929 423485.

14.00 Wareham Short Mat Bowls. Meet at Furzebrook Village Hall. New members welcome to come along and meet us!

14.00 Swanage Disabled Club meet until 4pm. Meeting place All Saints Church Hall, Ulwell, Sw. Transport available. Call Mrs Daphne Saville on 01929 425241 ffi.

16.00 Colour Me Happy. Adult colouring session at Swanage Library. Drop in.

16.45 Soccer Skills Sw FC First Sch chldn £1 Till 5.45. 425175 18.00 Swanage Tennis Club at Beach Gardens, Sw. Free Cardio Tennis taster. Till 7pm 18.00 Swanage Tennis Club at Beach Gardens, Sw. Free Matchplay taster session for prospective new members. First 3 sessions are free. Until 8.30pm.

19.00 Wareham Choral Society meet URC Meeting House, Church St, Wm. Till 9. New singers always welcome.

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 Steve Peirson on 01929 552504.

19.30 Purbeck Village Quire rehearse at Wm URC Church. New/visiting singers (no audition necessary). String & wind players also welcome. Ffi: 288045 or 480737.

19.30 Wareham Art Club Workshop at Wareham Parish Hall. Ffi: 553718.

19.30 Wm Folk Dance Club Stoboro’ VH. All welcome. 552763/551029 19.30 Swanage Air Cadets meet at Air Training Corps HQ, Court Road, Sw. Cadets age 12+. Ffi: email: oc.2185@aircadets.mod.

20.00 DARTS at the RBL Club, Sw. 20.00 Herston Hall Management C’ttee Bingo EVERY TUESDAY 09.00 Swanage Tennis Club at Beach Gardens, Sw. Free Cardio Tennis taster. Till 10am 09.30 Isle of Purbeck Arts Club. Painting and sketching. At the Catholic Church Hall, Rempstone Rd, Sw. Till 1pm. Outdoors in summer. Ffi: Gina on 421689.

09.30 Well Baby Clinic at Chapel Lane, Swanage. Till 11.30am.

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.

09.30 First Steps Parent & Toddlers’ Group. Swanage Methodist Church till 11.30am during term time. Ffi: Sylvia Garrett 425420, office hours.

10.00 Men & Women’s Mixed Walking Football Club at Swanage Football Club. Come and try! All levels welcome, even if you’ve never played before. Come and join in or just come along to watch a very friendly group of people playing football. Until 11.30am. Call Nick on: 07745 907509 10.00 Swanage Tennis Club at Beach Gardens, Sw. Free Matchplay taster session for prospective new members. First 3 sessions are free. Until 11.30am.

10.00 Wareham Croquet Club meet at the Recreation Ground until 5pm. New members and visitors welcome. Call Tony on 01929 550190 or Lesley on 01929 553927 or email warehamgolfcroquetclub@hotmail.com 10.00 Sandford Toddlers at Sandford Community Hall, till 11.30am.

10.00 Short Tennis at Sw FC All ages & abilities £1.50 Till noon. 425175 10.00 A Place Of Welcome at 103 High St. Sw. Friendly drop-in for everyone, providing a free cup of tea or coffee, a listening ear, conversation and basic information.

Everyone welcome, whatever the circumstances. Until 12 noon.

10.30 Adult Line Dance Class. FREE taster session at D’Urberville Centre, Wool. Till 11.30am with fully qualified instructor. All Covid-19 safety measures in place. Call Donna: 01202 243803 or email: donnadiebelius@gogglemail.com 10.30 Employment Hub at Swanage Library. Until 12.30pm. Book via Skilla dn Learning on 01202 262300.

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: 481000 10.30 Wareham Walkers. Convivial health walks for mainly older people, of up to two hours in and around Wareham, ending with coffee at a local tea room or pub. Ffi: www.wareham-walkers.org.uk or call 552933.

11.30 New Adult Latin American & Ballroom Dance Class for beginners. FREE

Please call prior to attending events listed to ensure they are still on! taster session at D’Urberville Centre, Wool. Till 12.30pm with fully qualified instructor. All Covid-19 safety measures in place. Call Donna: 01202 243803 or email: donnadiebelius@gogglemail.com 12.00 Nature Tots (0-4yrs) at Bovington Memorial Hall Garden. Until 2pm.

14.00 Wareham Short Mat Bowls. Meet at Furzebrook Village Hall. New members welcome to come along and meet us!

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: 481000.

14.00 Swanage Town Walk. Local historian takes walks lasting 90 minutes. Meet outside the Museum in the ‘Square’. No charge but voluntary contributions welcome.

14.00 Harman’s Cross Village Hall Art Group Till 5 18.00 Sw Youth Centre Girls’ Night (Yr 8+) Till 10 18.15 Sw Cricket Club Practice till 8.30pm 18.30 Sw Bridge Club Mowlem Community Room. 421840 19.00 Wareham Air Cadets meet at Air Training Corps HQ, St Martin’s Lane, Wm. Cadets age 12+. Ffi: email: oc.2185@aircadets.mod.

19.00 New Adult Line Dance Class. FREE taster session at Corfe Castle VH. Till 8pm with fully qualified instructor. All Covid-19 safety measures in place. Call Donna: 01202 243803 or email: donnadiebelius@gogglemail.com 19.00 Give Rugby A Try! FREE! at Swanage & Wareham Rugby Club, Bestwall Rd, Wm. We’re looking for new players, so come and have a go! Until 9pm. Over 18s only. Call John C. on: 07970 500357 Ffi. 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 Belvedere Singers rehearsal at Emmanuel Baptist Church, Victoria Avenue, Sw. BH19 1AZ. Parking on-site. Till 9.30pm. All singers welcome! 425074.

19.30 Women’s Walking Football Club at Swanage Football Club. Come and try! All levels welcome, even if you’ve never played before. Come and join in or just come along to watch a very friendly group of people playing football. Until 9pm. Call Nick on: 07745 907509 19.30 Sw & Langton Folk Dance Club Langton VH. Ffi: 421913 20.00 Carey Hall, Wm Bingo 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 Breast Feeding Group at Wareham’s Children Centre, Streche Rd, Wm. Offering peer support and breastfeeding counsellor advice. Till 12 noon. Ffi: 552864 10.30 Adult Dance Classes. Modern Line dance. Until 11.30am. At St Edward’s Church hall, Swanage. Ffi: 01202 243803 or see: www.purbeckdancestudio.co.uk 10.30 Play and Learn at Kids of Wool (BH20 6DY) until 12 noon.

10.30 Books and More - at Swanage Library. Reading & discussion group.

13.00 Studland Toddler Group at Studland Village Hall until 2.30pm.

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 14.30 Local Historian takes you on a town walk around Swanage, lasting 1 1/2 hours.

No need to book, just turn up in the Swanage Museum in the Square, voluntary contributions welcome.

15.00 Extend Exercise Class, now at Morton Village Hall. To improve strength, balance and flexibility. All welcome. Donations welcome. Ffi: 471490.

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 Tennis Club at Beach Gardens, Sw. Free Cardio Tennis taster. Till 7pm 18.00 Swanage Youth Club. School years 7&8. Till 8.30pm 18.00 Table Tennis at Harmans Cross Village Hall. All ages & abilities welcome.

Coaching given. Till 8pm or later. Ffi: 424591 18.30 Sw & Wm Hockey Club Junior (6-14yrs) Training, Wm Sports Centre. Until 7.30pm. Email: swanagewarehamhockey@outlook.com 19.00 Wm Bridge Club at the Library, South St. 552046 19.00 Swanage Depression Support group. We meet on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday each month at the Lower Hall, Salvation Army, Kings Rd East, Sw. BH19 1ES, until 9pm. Ffi: Nick on: 07766352062 or email: nickviney@hotmail.com or call Mary on: 01929426896.

19.00 Wareham Depression Support group. We meet on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday each month at Not Just Sundaes, South Street, Wareham. BH20, until 9pm. Ffi: John: 01929556315 or 07871 727278 or email: johnoneil905@yahoo.co.uk 19.00 Swanage Town Band meet for our weekly practice in the Council Chamber, Swanage Town Hall. New musicians warmly welcomed. Please call David Cook (musical Director) for further informaiton on: 01929 422909.

19.00 Give Rugby A Try! FREE! at Swanage & Wareham Rugby Club, Bestwall Rd,

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Wm. We’re looking for new players, so come and have a go! Until 9pm. Under 16s-18s only. Call John P. on: 07725 567541 Ffi. 19.00 Purbeck Runners meet at Beach Gardens Pavillion, Sw.

19.30 Swanage Musical Theatre meet Swanage Bay View Complex Rehearsal Room.

All welcome. Ffi: 426161 19.30 Sw & Wm Hockey Club (13+ years) Training, Wm Sports Centre. Till 9pm. Email: swanagewarehamhockey@outlook.com 20.00 Sw Youth Centre Club Night (Yr 9+) Till 10 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 Swanage Tennis Club at Beach Gardens, Sw. Free Cardio Tennis taster. Till 9.30am.

09.00 Carey Crafters meet every Thursday at Carey Hall, Mistover Road, until 12.30pm (come anytime between). No age or gender restriction. All crafts welcome we have a wide variety!. Come along and share your craft or learn a new one! Conntact Donna on 07870 993311 or Helen on 07368 352737 ffi.

09.00 Swanage Painting Club. Catholic Church Hall, Rempstone Rd, Sw. Friendly group. New members including beginners welcome. Till 1pm. Ffi: Jane on 01929 427078 09.30 Play and Learn at Chapel Lane, Swanage, till 11am.

09.30 Well Baby Clinic at Streche Road, Wareham, until 12 noon.

09.30 Swanage Tennis Club at Beach Gardens, Sw. Free Matchplay taster session for prospective new members. First 3 sessions are free. Until 11am.

09.30 Sensory Play for under ones, at Bovington Centre until 10.30am 09.30 Adult Dance Classes. Latin American & Ballroom dance. Until 10.30am. At the Wareham Scout & Guide Hut, N. Bestwall Rd, Wareham. BH20 4HX. Ffi: 01202 243803 or see: www.purbeckdancestudio.co.uk 10.00 Wyvern Savings & Loan Credit Union opens until 12 noon at Not Just Sundaes, South Street, Wareham, opposite the Library. A secure place to save and loans available at fair rates. Call in for a cuppa and a chat, or call 01305 268444.

10.00 Wm Parent & Toddler Group During term Parish Hall, Quay Till 11.45. 556806 10.00 A Place Of Welcome at 103 High St. Sw. Friendly drop-in for everyone, providing a free cup of tea or coffee, a listening ear, conversation and basic information.

Everyone welcome, whatever the circumstances. Until 12 noon.

10.00 Wool Country Market D’Urbeville Hall. Cakes, preserves, plants, crafts, vegetables. Coffee & biscuits available.

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.

10.00 Wareham Croquet Club meet at the Recreation Ground until 5pm. New members and visitors welcome. Call Tony on 01929 550190 or Lesley on 01929 553927 or email warehamgolfcroquetclub@hotmail.com 10.15 Chess at the Cafe Tratt, Lower High Street, Swanage (from 8th February 2018).

Call in for a friendly game of chess and a chat. All welcome.

10.30 Mid-Week Market Morning Service URC, Church St, Wm. Prayer requests to Revd. Simon Franklin 556976 10.30 Woodworking with Bernard and Terry at the Purbeck Workshop in Wool. The Workshop provides craft activities free of charge to those touched by cancer friends and family are welcome too. Unit 6, Woolbridge Business Centre, East Burton Rd, Wool. BH20 6HG. www.purbeckworkshop.org 07757 776907. Email: richris95@gmail.com 11.00 Sensory Play for 1-4yrs old at Bovington Centre, until 12 noon.

11.30 New Adult Line Dance Class. FREE taster session at Corfe Castle VH. Till 12.30pm with fully qualified instructor. All Covid-19 safety measures in place. Call Donna: 01202 243803 or email: donnadiebelius@gogglemail.com 13.30 Under 1 year olds at Wareham’s Children’s Centre, Streche Rd, Wm. Antinatal mums welcome. Till 3pm. Ffi: 552864.

13.00 Wareham Area Men’s Shed meets at Purbeck Connect, Sandford Lane, Wm. Ffi: call Chris on 554758, Harold on 792591 or Mike on 288045 13.30 Toddler Group. All Saints’ Church, Sw. 423937. Till 3pm (Term times) 13.00 New Adult Latin American & Ballrom Dance Class for beginners. FREE taster session at Corfe Castle VH. Till 2pm with fully qualified instructor. All Covid-19 safety measures in place. Call Donna: 01202 243803 or email: donnadiebelius@ gogglemail.com 14.00 Swanage Town Walk. Local historian takes walks lasting 90 minutes. Meet outside the Museum in the ‘Square’. No charge but voluntary contributions welcome.

14.00 Wareham Happy Cafe. Friendly conversation, talks, activities and some fun to put a spring in your step! Everyone welcome. Held at the Not Just Sundaes Cafe in South Street, Wareham. BH20 4LU. From 5th March 2020 onwards.

FREE. Until 3.30pm.

14.00 Studland Chair-based Exercise in the Village Hall, Studland. Ffi: Julie on 558139 or email: jbrad@uwclub.net 14.15 Sw Over-60s Meet in the Rectory Classroom, Swanage, Sw. All Welcome.

17.45 Swanage Youth Club. Learning Difficulties and disability (age 11-25) night. Till 7.30pm 18.00 Isle of Purbeck Arts Club. Weekly evening Art Group. Aimed at beginners, at Purbeck New Wave Gallery, 25 Commercial Rd, Sw. BH19 1DF. till 9pm.

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 Over 40s Men’s Walking Football Club at Swanage Football Club. Come and try! All levels welcome, even if you’ve never played before. Come and join in or just come along to watch a very friendly group of people playing football. Until 8.30pm. Call Nick on: 07745 907509 19.00 Purbeck Gateway Club meets at Wareham Youth Centre until 9pm. Purbeck

The Purbeck Gazette

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 Purbeck Arts Choir meet for rehersals, with conductor David Fawcett, at St Mary’s School, Northbrook Road, Swanage. Sept-May. All welcome. For more information please phone Liz Roberts 01929 481419 19.30 Swanage Youth Club Youth Action (year 7 - sixth form). Till 9.30pm 20.00 Herston Hall OAP Committee Bingo Sw EVERY FRIDAY 08.45 Coffee @ 112 - Drop In For Coffee! Catch up with friends at 112 High Street (United Reformed Church) in Sw. Cake and bacon butties. Fair trade stall.

Donations for ‘Besom in Purbeck’ and church funds.

09.00 Swanage Tennis Club at Beach Gardens, Sw. Free Cardio Tennis taster. Till 10am 09.30 Health Qigong: Fitness and relaxation. Till 10.30am. With Penny at Furzebrook VH, Wm. Ffi 07969925502 09.30 Wareham Area Men’s Shed meets at Purbeck Connect, Sandford Lane, Wm. Ffi: call Chris on 554758, Harold on 792591 or Mike on 288045 09.30 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 Table Tennis Club Sw FC All ages/abilities £2.50 Till noon. 480093 10.30 Do you want to volunteer in Swanage? Meet the team at the Volunteer Bureau in Swanage Library! Until 12.30pm.

11.00 Swanage Library Rhyme Time, ages 0-4, until 11.30am.

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 Wareham Short Mat Bowls. Meet at Furzebrook Village Hall. New members welcome to come along and meet us!

14.30 Short Mat Bowls at Durbeville Hall, Wool. Till 4.30pm. All standards welcome.

Ffi: 552682.

18.00 Swanage Tennis Club at Beach Gardens, Sw. Free Matchplay taster session for prospective new members. First 3 sessions are free. Until 8.30pm.

18.00 Purbeck War-Game & Model Club. Royal British Legion, Sw. 426096.

18.00 Sw Youth Centre Club 12-13 (Yr 7-9) Till 8 18.00 Purbeck Youth Choir at the United Reformed Church Hall, Sw. 8-18 years old.

Till 7pm. Ffi: Jay Buckle on: 07947 866945 18.30 Sw Bridge Club Mowlem Community Room. 421840 19.00 Sw Youth Centre Seniors Club Night (Yr 9+) Till 9.30pm.

19.30 Informal Lesbian Social Group meets each Friday for fun, laughter and to make new friends. Ffi, contact Karen by email at: outinpurbeck@gmail.com 19.30 Short tennis for adults at Swanage Football Club. All welcome. Equipment supplied. Till 9.30pm. £3.

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 08.00 Purbeck Runners meet at the Mowlem, Sw. 4/5 mile run.

09.00 Sw CC U11 - U15 Practice till 10.30 09.30 Sw CC U9 & U10 Practice & Kwik Cricket till 10.30 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.

11.00 Lego and Megablok Mayhem at Swanage Library, until 12 noon.

20.00 Herston OAP Committee Bingo at Herston Hall, Sw EVERY SUNDAY 09.00 Purbeck Runners meet at the Mowlem, Sw. 8+ mile run.

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.

10.00 Give Rugby A Try! FREE! at Swanage & Wareham Rugby Club, Bestwall Rd, Wm. We’re looking for new players, so come and have a go! Until noon. Under 6s-16s only. Call Claire on: 07799 842225 Ffi. 10.30 Stoborough Emmanuel Baptist Church meet at Stoborough First School, Stoborough. All very welcome.

13.30 Swanage Tennis Club at Beach Gardens, Sw. Free Cardio Tennis taster. Till 2.30pm 14.30 Swanage Tennis Club at Beach Gardens, Sw. Free Matchplay taster session for prospective new members. First 3 sessions are free. Until 4.30pm.

19.00 Quiz Night with cash prizes at the Red Lion, High Street, Swanage. All welcome - come along and see if you can win the prize pot!

19.00 Alcoholics Anonymous Wareham. Until 8.15pm. Doors open at 6.30pm. Call 07855 536039 or email: warehamsunday@gmail.com for details of meeting location and so on.

The Purbeck Gazette

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Telephone on: 01929 400520 or mobile: 0779 6044859

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IDEAL SKIP HIRE Skips from 2 - 40yds SAND GRAVEL HARDCORE SHINGLE & TOP SOIL Available loose or in 25kg & 1 ton bags Delivery or Collection

Trade & DIY customers welcome A Fast, Friendly & Efficient Service

TEL: 01929 422980

SWANAGE & DORSET SCAFFOLDING & ROOFING All aspects of Residential & Commercial Scaffolding Flat Roofing - Re-roofs, Slate or Tile, All repair works

Emergency Call Outs - Free Quotations & Estimates Temporary Roof Coverings - Fully Insured

OUR PRICE WON’T BE BEATEN

01929 424553 01258 858214 07813 346993

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The Purbeck Gazette

LOCAL TRADE ADVERTISING

ROOFING SPECIALIST SPARROW’S Over 30 years Membership Federation of Master Builders

NO JOB TOO SMALL 01929 421156 07974 077885 The Premier Trade Organisation High Performance Flat Roofing Specialists Re-Roofing - Slating & Tiling Roof Repairs - UPVC Facias & Gutters Chimneys Removed or Repointed sparrowroof@gmail.com

NJA Specialist Tree Care All aspects of Tree Surgery & Hedgework undertaken Fully insured and NPTC Qualified Free Quotations and advice 07703 210647 or 01929 481600

J.A. Construction (Dorset) Ltd.

Specialist in Purbeck Stone Walling General Building, Extensions, Renovations, Roofing, New Builds and all types of Ground Work.

Also available for Plumbing, Electrics & Carpentry.

Tel: 01929 554249 Fax: 01929 552294 Mobile: 07973 388190

www.jaconstructiondorset.co.uk Email: sales@jaconstruction.co.uk

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Highest standards guaranteed Fully certified & insured No hidden charges & no VAT Call Steve at Pile-Up on 01929 553861 or 07974 529017

JIM BAGGLEY BUILDING SERVICES Ltd Renovations, Alterations, Extensions, Kitchen Fitting, New Cut Roofs, Loft Conversions, Upvc Windows & Doors, Carpentry & Joinery

Tel: 01305 852311 or 07469 793452 Email: jessjimbaggleyltd@gmail.com

BRIAN MOORE INDEPENDENT TELECOM ENGINEER (Ex-BT)

Repair of phone lines & broadband HALF BT PRICES!!

07858 458997 - 01929 554886

The Purbeck Gazette

LOCAL TRADE ADVERTISING Michael B. Alberry

DECORATOR Property Decoration & Renovation

07796 640538 01929 424882

Join our trusted Trade advertising section and let locals know what services YOU offer!

Six month block (single trade advert) £158.76 (inc. VAT)

USE OUR LOCAL TRADES PEOPLE OR LOSE THEM!

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Man & Van available to hire

Rubbish Clearance Half the price of a skip and we do all the work!

07767 479438 Fully licensed & insured

VIP stockists of YOUR Purbeck Gazette!

Lytchett & Upton Council, Lytchett Minster The Courtyard Craft Centre, Lytchett Minster The Baker’s Arm Pub, Dorchester Road The Clay Pipe Inn, Organford Rd Crossways Post Office, Crossways The Spar Shop, Puddletown The Post Office, Winfrith Mace Stores, Bere Regis Bartletts Store, Bere Regis Holme Nurseries, East Holme Co-op Food & Petrol Station, Sandford Horsey’s Newsagents, Wareham Premier Stores, Carey, Wareham Purbeck Mobility, Wareham The Hidden Deli, Wool Gillett’s Spar Shop, Wool The Lookout Stores, Stoborough Stoborough Garage, Stoborough Foleys Garage, Harmans Cross St Michael’s Garage, Harmans Cross Swanage Tourist Information Centre Swanage News Newsagents, Swanage MColls Newsagents, Swanage Jenkins Newsagents, Swanage Arkwrights Stores, Swange Ballard Stores, North Swanage Costcutters, Herston, Swanage Richardson’s Budgens, Swanage Triangle Garage, Swanage Durlston Castle/Seventhwave Restaurant, Durlston, Swanage The Scott Arms pub, Kingston Corfe Castle Village Stores, Corfe Castle Langton Village Stores & Post Office, Langton Studland Stores, Studland

THANK YOU TO OUR AMAZING STOCKISTS - SUPPORT LOCAL!