The Purbeck Gazette - Issue 262 by The Blackmore Vale Limited

November 2021 November 2019 238 Issue no. 262 Published by Purbeck Media Ltd

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Purbeck Christmas Challenge! Pg 23 - 37 Who Ilay Will Talks Win OfThe Afghanistan. Maquette? PgPg 2212 - 23 Pg 20 Help Save RexTCMT The Brave.

MellowOur Fruitfulness with Ilay Cooper. Flag Is Now Official! Pg 16 Pg22

Pheasant Season. Pg -32 Banish Those Shooting Winter Blues! Pg 24 35

Remembering Pg Pg 18 37 Otter Deaths On The Arfon. Increase.

SWANAGE & now PURBECK TAXI This space is available!

Call Martin Williams Advertise to our readers! on 07969 927424 Let them know you’re QUAYout CARS there! TAXI 4-7 seater. Airports - Docks - Local Tours Email: Call:ed@purbeckgazette.co.uk 07788 2345 45

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Editor’s note...

elcome to the November edition of your Purbeck Gazette! We are now hurtling towards Christmas at a rate of knots and that’s just fine by me! I love that festive feeling as the nights draw in, the air turns crisp and chilly, the Christmas lights go up in our towns and villages and that sprinkle of magic is in the air. Generally enjoying a quiet Christmas with close friends and the animals, it’s a time of year I just love. Wandering through the autumnal woods to collect a few sprigs of holly, trailing cheerful Christmas lights around the garden and unpacking the box of Christmas tree decorations (which includes items from my longago childhood), are all favourite activities of mine as December grows closer. After a difficult year or so, I suggest that we all make an extra effort to make our homes, gardens and streets sparkly and beautifully festive this year to make up for it! Our November edition sees more of your opinions published in our letters pages, Steve Darrington updates us all on how the 34th Swanage Blues Festival went, we have detail on the progress of Langton Matravers’ new play park and much, much more! We also bring you an extremely heart-felt piece of writing from a local who wants to communicate honestly how losing a close family member to suicide affects those left behind. It’s an honest, sometimes hard to read piece of writing, but one we are printing in the hope that it changes the life of just one person who reads it. We also hope it sheds a little light with regard to how we all need to be purposefully kind, thoughtful and considerate to those who have lost a loved one to suicide. Kindness is one of the most important behaviours to practice - so let’s all keep practising!

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.

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The DECEMBER 2021 edition has a deadline of 10th Nov. The JANUARY 2022 edition has a deadline of 8th Dec.

Public Notices & Information

Swanage Town Council Meetings - NOV 2021

PLEASE CONTACT THE COUNCIL DIRECTLY FOR INFORMATION

Wareham Town Council Meetings - NOV 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.

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Sunrise at Corfe Castle on 17th September 2021, by Richard Murgatroyd

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT BUSINESS MATTERS COMMUNITY MATTERS COUNCIL MEETINGS FEATURES 34th Swanage Blues Festival Wrap-Up Blast From The Past - November 2011 Blooming Wareham! Silver Gilt Award John Garner writes - Further Afield Gazette Gardening with Simon Goldsack Mellow Fruitfulness, Ilay Cooper writes National Coastwatch - Eyes Along The Coast Pheasant Shooting Season Time Remembrance Sunday 2021 Remembering Ian Lowson Suicide - Speaking From The Heart Support Trevor Chadwick Memorial Trust Telling It Like It Is - David Hollister writes FOOD - Godlingston Manor Kitchen Gardens HEALTH & BEAUTY LETTERS MOTORING NATURAL MATTERS TRADE ADVERTS DIARY SPOTLIGHT

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DEADLINE FOR FOR THE DECEMBER EDITION IS NOON, NOV DEADLINE JULY IS NOON, FRI 10th10th 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.

DECEMBER deadline: noon, 10th NOV

Pension Woes Information Dear Readers, I am concerned that in David Hollister's column (October 2021) he states that he is on pension income of only £700 per month and yet his Council Tax Bill is £240 per month. Many of your older readers will believe that this to be accurate and may not be claiming Council Tax support from Dorset Council on this basis Anybody on such a low income should not have to pay such a high Council tax bill unless they have significant cash savings and should apply to Dorset Council for Council Tax support I would refer all older readers on pension income to AgeUK's very helpful website using this link which will prove very helpful to them https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/money-legal/benefitsentitlements/council-tax-support/ Yours sincerely, Philip Eades, Swanage, by email

Please Support Poppy Time! Dear Editor, I have recently taken over from Janet Duke as Poppy Appeal organiser. I'd like to thank her, as well as many more, for her excellent organising skills and for helping me in this transition. I am going to have my Poppy Fair again this year with our Artisans, Crafters, Books, Cosmetics and more. We will be doing a grand draw much the same as the one last year that I held. £2 a ticket. Hoping to have Steve's quiches, yummy!! I'm asking your lovely readers for donations for The Grand Draw, our tombola and just their general presence this year. Last year was so tough and we need to raise everyone's spirits, as well as raise some money. I'm also hoping anyone who would like a stall will contact me. It's £10 with table provided and a hot cuppa from me. I'm also looking for volunteers to help with this and also with street collecting. Please email me at: podyfrog@aol.com With my second hat on, I am also responsible for booking the stalls for next year's Platinum Jubilee street party on 2nd June 2022. It’s going to be a lovely big affair with tickets for sale. Last time we had an event like this we sat down 600, more details to follow. It’s £20 for a stall for this wonderful event, with local artisans and sustainable stalls encouraged. Contact me again at podyfrog@aol.com Thanking everyone for all the support! Yours, Carolyn Hooper, Swanage, by email.

Horror At MIU Changes Dear Editor I share Jan Turnbull's horror at the changes taking place at Swanage Minor Injuries Unit. Three years ago I took my elderly mother there following a fall. She was seen immediately, and given a thorough examination and an X-ray. Fortunately nothing was broken, and the bruising and swelling to her hand disappeared after a while. I was very impressed by the treatment Mum received, and she found the relaxed and quiet atmosphere reassuring. I don't believe she would have felt the same about a busy casualty department at Poole General, or, as will soon be the case, at Bournemouth. Sadly, this reluctance to open up and put Government restrictions behind them, is all too prevalent in the Health Service. General practice too is still

Beer, Ale & Cider Specialists Food served 12 noon - 3pm, 6pm - 9pm High Street, Swanage. 01929 423533 using these abandoned pieces of legislation as an excuse not to go back to a proper day's work. I wonder how many of these terrified doctors and nurses go to pubs and restaurants, where staff and customers are now mingling in pre-pandemic fashion, or to supermarkets, where staff have kept working, while managing the risks according to the advice given by the Government. I wonder if they spend their off duty hours cowering in their homes, and if they advise their patients - by telephone of course - to do the same. Swanage MIU, and GP's surgeries, should never have been out of bounds in the first place. Imagine what would have happened if the staff in hospitals had closed their doors, instead of doing everything in their power to help Covid-19 patients. Their dedication to duty should be a lesson to those who are working in a less risky area of the NHS. Yours sincerely, Mrs J Wellstead, Wareham

NHS Deaf To Hearing Problems? Dear Nico, The NHS appears to be withdrawing medical services from Swanage. The Ambulance Car is under threat and calling 111 in order to access the Minor Injuries Unit sounds like another attempt to close it. A third service which has already been quietly withdrawn is the removal of ear wax from patients' ears. The NHS has stopped paying doctors for carrying out this treatment so Swanage surgery no longer does this. Instead, it refers patients to local providers who charge a minimum of £80 per treatment. There is no suggestion as to how anyone who needs repeated treatments is to afford this. The Dorset NHS Clinical Commissioning Group says that ear wax removal is not a ‘core service’. It also says that DIY treatments are available from chemists, but ignores the fact that frequently these treatments do not work. Ear wax build up can cause hearing loss, dizziness and ear infections. The Commissioning Group adds that anyone suffering hearing loss can be referred by their doctor to an Audiology Clinic. What it does not say is that anyone attending the clinic with ear wax cannot be fitted with a hearing aid. Perhaps surprisingly, Audiology Clinics do not syringe ears to remove wax, presumably because it is not a ‘core service’. The result is that appointments are wasted and if the intention was to save NHS money, it fails in this while also failing patients. Hearing loss is a disability which makes it difficult to follow conversations, even in small family groups, while in public gatherings, with numerous speakers, echoing spaces and often background music, hearing loss becomes isolating. It is difficult to understand how the NHS concluded that removal of ear wax is not a ‘core service’. Eric Johns, by email.

The Factors Controlling Climate Dear Editor, In simplistic terms, our climate is controlled by three main factors. They are how much the earth is tilted relative to the sun. Whether the Earth wobbles a lot or a little as it spins on its axis and the shape of Earth’s orbit as it goes around the sun (whether it is shaped more like a circle or more like an ellipse or oval). Ice ages, according to ice core samples, have been going on for millions of years. The curious thing about ice ages is that the climate flip-flops between what is known as glacial periods and inter glacial periods. Glacial periods last tens of thousands of years whereby the temperatures are much colder and more of our planet is covered in ice. The inter glacial periods last only a few thousand years and the climate conditions are similar to those of today. The biggest damage being inflicted upon our planet is caused by the sudden

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Square & Compass www.squareandcompasspub.co.uk

Worth Matravers 01929 439229

NOVEMBER 2021 Best pub in the world! (if you like it, that is...) We are joyfully welcoming back our musicians! Check our social media and website for details. Do come and see us! Ale, cider, pies, pasties & cake all available! Support your local, independent establishments! growth in the world’s population. We have increased from one billion in the 1800s to 7.9 billion in 2020 and the UN predicts that will rise to 11.2 billion by 2030. According to research by the Helmholts Centre, 90% of the plastic in our oceans, which is threatening the entire Earth’s ecosystem, comes from the third world and specifically China, India and Africa. The poor in those countries are no different to our ancestors a hundred years ago, whereby poverty and high infant mortality encouraged large families to provide for the elderly. I consider the loss of natural habitat and pollution to be the biggest threat to our planet and mankind. In just one year an estimated eight million tons of plastic are dumped into our oceans, which is enough to cover an area the size of Chicago. Three hundred marine species are known to be affected by plastic pollution. The world has lost a third of its arable land due to erosion or pollution in the past forty years, with potentially disastrous consequences as global demand for food increases. The first known case of air pollution impacting the natural environment was with acidification, commonly known as acid rain. Nitrogen is a key part of our ecosystem, but when too much nitrogen enters the environment through transport emissions, the burning of fossil fuels or agriculture, it can accumulate in excess and becomes a toxic pollutant. If earthlings don’t get their act together with some urgency, we will end up with a uninhabitable planet. I remain Editor, yours faithfully, Mike Fry, by email.

Neptune Abandoned? Dear Gazette, When the National Trust purchased the coast under Operation Neptune, it was to protect and maintain our beautiful coastline, but now they are going to abandon it, taking it back to the wild. No sheep, no cattle, no ploughing. The historic stone walls are not going to be maintained if they fall down, barbed wire fencing is to be used. As with corporate business, no argument is allowed. Their word is sacrosanct – ask the tenants. The end result is the fields will be nothing but thistles, blackthorn and bramble, a little like Corfe Common. I thought we lived on a heritage coast and in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty? Bill Williams, by hand

PA Available For Community Dear Gazette, Swanage and District Chamber of Trade and Commerce is pleased to announce that, thanks to the kindness of the De Moulham Trust, it now has a PA system for use at its events. This will be available to other community organisations for charity events and so on. In order to maintain the equipment and eventually to be able to replace it when required, there will be a deposit of £50 charged, of which £25 will be returned if nothing untoward has happened to the system. If you wish to use the PA, then please contact me on 07736 674005. Anne Rothery, by hand

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MATT HILLAN Building Alterations & Maintenance

All Trade Aspects Undertaken Free Estimates Fully Insured

01929 427296 07971 690817 Happy to help and advise

Nina’s Purbeckian Memories Dear Purbeck Gazette, Please find below a poem, ‘My Purbeck Day’, which was written by my mother-in-law, Nina Barnett. She and her late husband Bill spent a lot of time in Swanage in the 60s/70s/80s and 90s and inspired their children and grandchildren to all fall in love with it too. Please also find a picture (below) of Nina sitting on a ledge in Swanage in 1985. Nina is now 92 and is living in a nursing home in Essex. She still talks about Swanage regularly and wishes that she could visit again. It would make her day to see her poem in your magazine. Jill Barnett, Orsett, Essex, by email

with beautiful floral displays and a fountain in the garden. Uncertain of the times of the minibus service, I walked down to the beach which is further away from the house than my flat is from Swanage seafront. There was Queen Victoria’s bathing machine by the beach and her shelter nearby. The sea was very clear in the secluded sand and shingle beach and there was a view of the Wightlink ferry passing Ryde on its way to Fishbourne. Walking back to East Cowes in plenty of time for the 15:30 ferry, I noticed that the Red Eagle ferry was about to depart at 15:00. The staff said that it was the 14:30 ferry running late, so I got back to Southampton earlier than expected. Approaching the port, I had a good view of three cruise ships: P & O Britannia and Saga Spirit of Discovery. Readers of the November 2020 Gazette will remember my account of the Queen Elizabeth at anchor at Weymouth. You will be pleased to see that it was back in service at Southampton and the nearby cars enabled me to judge the size of the ship. Despite the long journey it was a pleasant day out and I am sure Prince Albert and Queen Victoria would have enjoyed their stays at Osborne House. Yours sincerely, Robin Brasher, Swanage, by email.

Cash Is Still Legal Tender!

My Purbeck Day - By Nina Barnett I roam the cliffs and my spirits soar At the mighty sea’s tumultuous roar, At the wondrous reach of the sea and sky And the haunting screech of the seabirds’ cry As they soar on high. I turn inland to a different view. To the Purbeck Heath full of every hue. The purple heathers and golden gorse And marvel at nature’s artistic force. Another turn, another view. The newborn lambs and the gentle ewe Filling the air with their plaintive cries I lift my face to the clear blue skies. It’s paradise.

Earlier Than Expected...

Dear Readers, A forecast of a sunny day on Friday September 24th with good visibility encouraged me to visit Osborne House for the first time since lockdown. Having travelled by train from Bournemouth to Southampton I arrived at Osborne House at 12:30. There was a one-way system at the entrance and the lady at the desk asked me if I had booked. I told her that I had not, but she still let me in. It was very busy, so I did not go inside the house this time. The outside of the house looked more attractive than ever

Dear Mr Hollister, I agreed with all your points in "Pretty Darned Disgusted" in October’s Gazette. I too only use a card for big expenditures. I'm on the cusp of my late 70s somewhat fit mentally (my wife of forty-five years would probably disagree!) and still able to use mental arithmetic skills from my infant school days. It is sheer laziness, not covid, which has some shops turning against cash. The reality is also that young staff often can't count without a calculator. I now refuse to buy small presents for grandchildren at a chocolate outlet or purchase from a pasty shop, both in Swanage. They rejected my cash. The Russell Cotes Museum in Bournemouth has a similar attitude . On my last visit to this pasty shop, a year or so ago, I asked whether they would serve an elderly cardless person, soaked to the skin, needing a warming cup of tea . The answer from the young assistant was that she would not be able to do so. Madness. Apart from feeling that big brother is watching my every movement, I avoid small payments by card lest I inadvertently end up overspending. Why should my every move be monitored? Would I want my wife to know that, when I'm out walking, I'm regularly spending our money on bacon rolls and endless mugs of tea!? I'm waiting for the moment when a sunspot or some malign interference crashes electronic links and I with my stash of cash would have the last laugh. Even then, however, this may not be the case. Some years ago, I was at a Waitrose to buy a newspaper. The checkouts were down. A builder had cut a cable. My voucher was refused. All transactions had to be recorded electronically. The store lost trade, but presumably claimed on insurance. As for 111 all GP reception staff, doctors, government ministers etc should try it. They'd soon realise how poor a service it offers, especially for the elderly or hard of hearing. How, for example, would such a visitor on a day visit who'd gashed a leg on the beach access Swanage's MIU if they did not have a mobile, let alone a smart phone? They'd be away from a home landline. The gash would perhaps just need cleaning and a few stiches and comforting words, not a needless visit to Dorchester or Bournemouth. Until two years ago, Swanage's MIU would have provided the all but instant friendly and efficient attention. Yours sincerely, Michael Olizar

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Swanage Community Housing Dear Readers, I’m writing to invite you to the zoom launch, at 7pm on Wednesday 10th November, of Swanage Community Housing, a charitable community land trust. We all know someone who has had to move out of Swanage to find a home, or of a care worker or nurse who works in Swanage, but can’t afford to live here. My husband and I have been trying to find a secure home for our family for three years now and rents just aren’t affordable. At this rate we may have to leave the town we both grew up in. I’m proud to be part of a project developing genuinely affordable homes for local people. At the launch I’ll be talking about my family’s experience of trying to find an affordable home in Swanage, there’ll be speakers from successful housing groups in other areas, followed by small groups for us all to share our thoughts and interests. The Town Council has pledged to make land available, and Dorset Council has provided seed funds. If you agree that Swanage is in need of affordable homes for local people then please join us on Zoom and find out more. We need your help – working together we can make this happen! We’d like people to become members of our group, or perhaps join the management committee. Membership is £5, which gives you a stake and a vote. We need local people who share our vision, are in housing need, can fill skills gaps or all three! Whether you bring energy and enthusiasm or skills in admin, finance or project management, we’d love to hear from you! To register for the event: Please email me on swanagecommunityhousing@ gmail.com and I will send you all the information you need. I hope to see you there! Rosalind Suttle, by email

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TELLING IT LIKE IT IS... Bring Back Guy Fawkes by David Hollister

was gratified to receive a reply and comment on my piece about the government’s apparent attempt to remove cash and replace it with debit card transactions. Regrettably, too many establishments are following on from this pernicious policy which appears to have been spawned with the onset of Covid when people genuinely believed that they could catch the disease from handling money. Same nonsense that still demonises mobile phones; never seen a garage forecourt blow up when a customer answers his phone. Stayed in a superb 4-star hotel in Lincolnshire last weekend; arrived to be told ‘we don’t accept cash’ and even though I was intending to use my card, I questioned the receptionist and – as with almost every such query I have made – the poor girl simply recited: ‘it’s our Company Policy, I didn’t set it up….’. So apparently these rules are being set by ‘them’ simply because card transactions are easier for the vendor. There are shops and restaurants in our own towns that have unilaterally made this policy - into which I will no longer go and spend my money. I would encourage you, dear reader, to do the same. And I would encourage these traders to think again; think of the elderly who have never had or wanted a credit card, who don’t understand debit cards, and to whom a mobile phone is still the devil’s handiwork. The Government will do nothing about it because as far as they are concerned, card use makes each member of the public traceable and all adds to the volumes of data that they hold. Big Brother has taken one giant step and can fall back on Covid as an excuse, same as Covid is used as an excuse by so many departments and big businesses for poor service. ‘We are very busy with an unexpectedly high number of calls’ can be translated as ‘we have deliberately cut our staff numbers to the bone and actually, your call isn’t ‘important’ to us, we don’t give a damn about the customers we inconvenience’. With size comes arrogance. Before the councils were merged, our valued County Councillor Bill Trite warned “four or five years down the line we shall have plenty of time to repent at leisure and learn all over again that, in the long run, residents’ satisfaction with their local governance is inversely proportional to the size and remoteness of their local authority.” Two and a half years later, Bill’s words still hold good. Take for example the ‘planning authorities.’ Purbeck is the most vulnerable, threatened part of Dorset with regards to retention of character and quality of life, yet the attitude towards safeguarding it through the planning system seems to me – and also to Bill – to amount to negligence. There is a forthcoming Local Plan……how many more, I ask? We seem to have made local plans almost annually since 2010, all weasel words and fancy glossy pictures but very little actual action. Our roads are still dangerous; our pavements a hazard, but Dorset Council seem to have had the time to inflate parking charges by ridiculous multipliers. The 15-minute-for-20p rate has gone, now the minimum is £1 for 30 minutes, a flat rate all year round rather than cheaper off-season rates. Ten hours parking on Shore Road will go up from £1.20 to £12.00. What is Dorset Council up to? Do they not make enough money from our Council Tax and business rates? Do they not understand that these pernicious new parking charges will simply serve to put off the visitors and shoppers? The Council statement says: “on street charges are higher than off-street car park charges to encourage drivers into car parks; this helps to keep town centres clear of traffic and thus assists in the ‘safety’

or active transport users.” And helps keep the on-street parking spaces for Blue Badge holders…… AAah! Now I understand! I need to get a Blue Badge but would feel really guilty because I can actually still walk fairly well at 70-something, albeit slowly. I understand that Dorset Council has received ONE objection to a road name in Swanage that could possibly cause offence! So, the Council have prioritised this and are proposing changing the name. Well, to my knowledge Dorset Council has received many more than ONE objection to the Langton turning, to the Harmans Cross (non-existent) pavement, to the Wareham bridge pedestrian problem, to the dangerous puddle at St. Michaels’ hill (another victim this month) yet none of these potentially lethal issues have managed to reach the top of the pile, whereas one street name which MAY be treated as racist and cause offence, rather than kill or injure someone, is right up there. Isn’t it time we started worrying about personal injury rather than hurt feelings? Isn’t it time that the police we have left should concentrate on protecting people from violence, sexual assault, crimes against children, rape, aggravated burglary, rather than worry about offence being caused? You’re probably reading this just before Halloween and Bonfire night. So, here’s where I beg of all who go out on ‘trick or treat’ nights to respect that not everyone wants to play along; possibly too old, too scared, and just wanting to be left alone. How do you know? I’d encourage all readers who are happy to take part to leave a pumpkin on their front step or in their front window. At the risk of being called a miserable old git, or having my car or property damaged, my first response will be ‘no thank you’ and my second, a bucket of cold water. But more important is bonfire night and the associated firework displays which seem to go on for a week either side. They’re never going to ban the sale of loose fireworks despite appeals from the RSPCA to please, think of animals living in the vicinity of your firework displays, do the decent thing and at least warn people twenty-four hours in advance so we can lock our pets away. Last year it took my son, James, four days of grief to recover his terrified cat; this year he’s prepared a soundproof room under the stairs, where they can go and shelter from the noise. But we shouldn’t have to do this; call ourselves a nation of animal lovers? Bah Humbug…… It’s just such fun on Guy Fawkes Night; The fireworks mak a wond’rous sight The bonfire makes a crackling sound, And happy children dance around The children make excited squeals, At rockets, starshells, catherine wheels; Potatoes cook in silver foil and bangers cook in boiling oil, We celebrate on Guy Fawkes night, When Guy Fawkes tried to dynamite The House of Commons, long ago. He failed that time, but even so, We still have sympathy for him, Although his chances then were slim, And poor Guy Fawkes, he took the blame; It really seems a dreadful shame. And looking back across the years, Us peasants still would shed no tears If Guy Fawkes has another try, And this time, blew the place sky-high! It’s just such fun on Guy Fawkes Night; The fireworks make a wond’rous sight Us peasants sit and watch the scene…..And muse about what might have been.

DECEMBER 2021 EDITION DEADLINE - NOON, 10th NOV Book online or email: ed@purbeckgazette.co.uk

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Forty-Five Brave Fire Walkers!

ewis-Manning Hospice Care’s fire walking fundraisers raised over £9,000 to help local lives in the community. The charity wants to say a huge thank you to all the supporters, donators and spectators who turned up at Bournemouth Beach on Friday 17th September and faced their fears. It was a fantastic night, and Lewis-Manning Hospice Care are thrilled to be offering this event again next year. Area Fundraiser, Ruth Wright said “Thank you so much to the forty-five brave fire walkers, we had a great evening with UK Fire Walk helping people put their bravery to the test. Visually the flames helped draw in a large crowd and it was wonderful to see so many people supporting our local charity hospice. “We’d also like to say a huge thanks to Rock Reef for hosting the training session beforehand.” If you would like to sign up for the Fire Walk on the 9th September 2022 please visit their website today: https://lewis-manning.org.uk/ fire-walk/

Out Of The Blue

The Purbeck Gazette

605, over four hundred years ago on the 5th of November, a group of guys tried to blow up parliament. Yes, it’s here already - Bonfire Night!! No apologies for using this article to remind you all of a few simple rules to ensure celebrations across Purbeck are safe and enjoyable! King James Council allowed the public to celebrate with bonfires so long as they were ‘without any danger or disorder’. Well, nowadays regulations made under the Fireworks Act 2003 make it an offence for the under 18s to possess fireworks in a public place and for anyone to let fireworks off during night hours (11pm to 7am). If a retailer is found to be selling fireworks to underage customers, they will be liable to prosecution. While we want you all to enjoy the celebrations of bonfire night it is important to remember that the misuse of fireworks can be dangerous to people, property and animals and can leave some members of our communities feeling intimidated and distressed. Therefore, we would like you to respect and take note of the firework Code. So, what have we been up to? Well, during the period September 07 2021 – October 07 2021 we dealt with a total of 470 occurrences in Purbeck, of which 135 were recorded crimes and resulted in 55 arrests. There were also 125 occurrences of road traffic collisions. Don’t forget to keep on sending us your comments 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. 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

Remembering Ian Lowson - Our Shakespearean Guide

an Alexander Lowson passed away on July 29, 2021. He was born in England in 1931 and still lived there, along the Dorset coast, as well as spending time in New York City. Ian was a well known figure around Swanage and will be dearly missed by many in the community. Ian came from a poor working-class family and was one of six children. Despite these great odds, he won a scholarship to Oxford University, studying language and literature. As a lifelong pacifist, he refused to go to war in Korea. War meant “one human being killing another”. Because of his principles, he fled to Europe to teach in Switzerland and Denmark and then in 1954, moved to Spain, where he opened up the English departments in both the Universities of Barcelona and Salamanca. This was Franco‘s repressive Spain, so while in Salamanca, Ian also operated clandestinely as a stringer for the New Statesman and Nation. He relayed

news from the underground Spanish opposition, chiefly provided by his colleague, Tierno Galvan, who after Franco’s demise, became the Mayor of Madrid. Spain began to prove too hot, so Ian returned to London where Kingsley Martin commended him to the editor of the Observer. Ian rejected his offer of Spanish correspondent in Madrid and instead went to New York City, where he taught literature at Columbia University for ten years. After that, he spent the next thirty years devising and directing historical tours in Europe, Asia and Latin America. Ian is survived by his wife, Jane (pictured, below left, with Ian), his two children, Charlotte and Edmund, and his granddaughter, Maya. Ian lived a full, adventurous and principled life, for which he was highly respected. We will all miss our wise Shakespearean guide.

The Purbeck Gazette

Langton Matravers’ New Play Park A Step Closer

Commenting on the donation, Aster Group development director Amanda Williams, said: “With our twenty-eight new affordable homes currently in development in the village, we’re pleased that our donation brings the new play park one step closer. We hope that the whole community will enjoy this wonderful new space for family fun, play and relaxation.” Aster is currently building twenty-eight new affordable homes in Spyway Orchard, Langton Matravers. Twenty-two of the homes comprising of one-bedroom flats, two, three and four bedroom houses will be available for local residents or those with a strong connection to the area. The remaining three- and four-bedroom homes will be available to purchase through the shared ownership scheme. For further information about Langton Matravers’ new children’s play park or to make a donation, visit www.langtonmatravers@dorset-aptc.gov.uk. For further information about Spyway Orchard and Aster Group, visit www. aster.co.uk.

ocal housing association Aster Group has donated £5,000 towards Langton Matravers’ new children’s play park fund. The donation brings the fund to £25,000, just £10,500 short of the total needed. The play park is located in the centre of the village on St George’s School Field. Working with Redlynch, a leading provider of outdoor play equipment, Langton Matravers’ Parish Council has agreed a design which will encourage both imaginative and physical play. Cllr Vaughan-Arbuckle, speaking on behalf of Langton Matravers Parish Council, said: “We are most grateful for the generous support of the Aster Group towards the refurbishment of the village play area and we look forward to establishing a close working relationship with them.” The play park will include a castle mound, a climbing play trail, swings, carousel and rubber stepping post. Recognising that the park will be a focal point for the local community, including parents, grandparents and carers, it will also incorporate a ring of the famous Purbeck stones for sitting on and children’s role play.

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Suicide - Speaking From The Heart A Purbeckian who lost a family member to suicide has taken the decision to speak about their experience in the hope it can help someone.

have been reading lots of things in the news about suicide. Some people call it an easy way out, also saying that it’s a selfish act. How can anyone stipulate what it is like to be in that position? The pain and heartache that person must be going through. Until you have gone through this, you cannot explain what it’s like. A few years ago we lost a member of our family to suicide. The very thought of a person having to go through this alone, with no one there with them, breaks my heart. In the lead-up to someone taking their own life, just look for any signs and ask questions – most of all, just listen and be there for them, if possible. Let them know that you are there for them – let them see that you are trying to help and that they can trust you in what you’re saying. I still do believe that suicide is always a desperate cry for help. After reading some of the stories of what other people have gone through, I feel that I would like to express my feelings on the subject. I feel that when this happens to any family (losing someone through suicide), you will get true friends who stand by you whatever the situation and who will not judge you. Then you get the ‘so called’ friends, who for some reason, will never speak to you again. This seems to be mainly because they think it was a very bad thing which the person (who committed suicide) had done. They also don’t know what to say to you in your grief – I say it’s better to say something, than nothing at all. Losing someone to suicide can be an extremely lonely experience. I wanted to express my feelings with regards to suicide because it’s something which seems to have become more prevalent in men. Is that because men are still more frightened to show any emotion or because they feel that they should do better for their family? Is it because a man thinks that he can (or should) sort out every problem? I say talk about your problems – there may just be a way out and you simply can’t see it. Just one word may change the situation and a light may shine again. This is a very important point. I know from my own problems and issues I’ve had to cope with in my life. I was one of those men who could not handle the lies and torment I went through in the past, so I tried to take my own life. It was only because my family found me in time that I am here, writing my thoughts down today to share with you. I want to try and help others who have heartache and try to explain the suffering suicide causes to family and friends left behind. We must not forget about the families left in grief. Some people can be very hurtful – crossing the road so they don’t have to speak to you, finger pointing and whispering behind your back. If only people could stop and simply express their opinion, or say a few words, it may lead to a greater understanding of why someone felt they had to commit suicide. My heart goes out to anyone who has lost a family member to suicide – as well to all who have lost any member of their family in any circumstances. Grief can be overwhelming. Sometimes all we need is a shoulder to cry on.

After losing someone to suicide, it’s not just the shock and grief – you then have to focus on sorting that person’s estate out, which is another time to see who your friends really are. There are people who think they’re owed something and it is difficult to please everyone. In the end, you please no one and become the ‘bad one’ in the situation. Through all of our experiences, we could not believe how hurtful some people can be in the aftermath of such emotional devastation, even if unintentionally. You can lose family over the situation and have no control over this. I feel the most important thing in all of this is talking openly and sharing the problems that we all experience in life. Suicide is not a dirty word – it’s a cry for help and I strongly believe that more should be done to help those feeling suicidal. I thank you for reading this and I hope it will help someone.

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Professor Kenneth A Munday - Ken will be 100 on 5th November 2021 hat an achievement to reach the age of 100! Amazingly, Ken Munday (pictured, above) is still mentally alert, a great communicator, is fully aware of all current affairs and can name all the cabinet and major government policies! Ken has even had good correspondence with Matthew Parrish, the acclaimed journalist who he follows and is in tune with Matthew’s views and philosophies on life. In fact, Ken’s original ambition was to be a journalist. From humble beginnings in Dursley, Gloucestershire Ken has achieved more in his life than many of us would imagine. Ken went to Manchester University where he met Enid and they were married for sixty-seven years until her death in 2012. He is a Europhile and has spent long periods of time driving and exploring part of Europe, particularly France, Switzerland and Spain. During the war Ken drove the fire engine on the campus of Manchester University and after graduation, became an expert in control of insect infestation of stores of farm supplies. Ken has an OBE in recognition of his work as a Chair of Dorset Health Authority, which at the time commissioned and opened the new Poole Hospital. Ken was one of the founding team for a new Medical School at the University of Southampton. He was Dean of Faculty of Physiology and Pharmacology at Southampton University (alongside Prof Acheson, who was Dean of Medicine at the same time at Southampton University and later became the Chief Medical Officer as a precursor to Prof Whitty - who we are all so familiar with these days!) Ken and Enid moved to Swanage in Dorset in 1977 and he retired in 1985. Ken is now a Professor Emeritus for the University of Southampton, which he is very proud of. Ken (and Enid) attended St Marys Church in Swanage and sang in the choir and also the local choral group. He loves Swanage and despite the close family living a fair distance away, his heart is in Dorset and the beauty of the countryside and wildlife. Ken has an amazing team of carers; honestly, he could not be more loved and cared for and they have enabled him to reach his 100th year, for which he is so grateful. A truly remarkable man who has reached a truly remarkable age! The Isle of Purbeck wishes you a happy birthday Ken!

NOVEMBER 2021 EDITION DEADLINE - NOON, 8th OCT

The Purbeck Gazette

Wareham Town Council Update Julie, our Gazette correspondent, details the goings on in recent council meetings..... News from Wareham Town Council September Wareham’s Neighbourhood Plan was approved in the referendum held on 30 September by 1145 to 120 votes and now goes forward to Dorset Council. Wareham Council thanked all those involved in the Plan’s preparation, in particular, Dr David Evans, Hilary Evans and Councillor Keith Critchley. Not Just Sundaes is providing temporary accommodation for Tourist Information leaflets. Town Council officers are looking into the possibility of sectioning off part of the Corn Exchange for an office for Town Council enquiries, visitor information and possibly bookings. The open hours would be 10 – 1, Monday to Friday, the same as the Town Council office hours now, and use an existing staff member, with the advantages of visibility and accessibility and leaving the Corn Exchange available for bookings. The chair lift in the Town Hall will be replaced by one which is more

functional and reliable in order to improve access to the Council Chamber. It is to be hoped that the £9,750 spent on playground consultancy bears fruit soon. Councillors congratulated the staff on an unqualified annual audit and passed the Risk Management report which has to be done for next year’s audit. Carey Road from Westminster Road towards Trigon does not meet Dorset Council’s criteria for a 30 mph speed limit but will have “Slow: Pedestrians In Road” signs. Funding is not available at the moment for the building of the Hub on the Middle School site. The next Town Council meeting will be on Tuesday 2nd November, and then there will be a short meeting on 14th December both at 7 pm in the Council Chamber and open to the public. The Council’s website is www.wareham-tc.gov.uk and the ‘phone number of the office is 01929 553006.

News From Corfe Castle Community Library

he series of events organised by the library in Corfe Castle continues with: Deb Fullbrook and Elmo: An Afternoon of Photography November 26th 2021. Deb will be familiar to many in the area. You may have seen her photography when she exhibits in the Purbeck Arts Weeks (PAW). Deb delights in taking images on her wanderings around Purbeck and further afield with her dog Elmo. She aims to capture the immediacy of memory-invoking pictures of landscapes, flora and fauna. Few, if any of her photos are planned, rather they are the happy result of her spontaneous, sometimes quirky and humourous, occasionally wistful, reactions to her surroundings. Come along for an afternoon of wonderful photography in the presence of a most jovial presenter (and, of course, Elmo). The illustrated talk will be followed by a collection for the charity Hearing Dogs and an opportunity

to buy prints or cards of some of Deb’s images. The event will be held in Corfe Castle village hall so we can make use of the new projection facilities. Please register for this event via email to corfecastlelibrary@ gmail.com or via the volunteers running the library. The talks are free and open to everyone. In December we will have: Christmas Quiz Night – Friday 10th December 7.00pm. Zoe Squirrel: An International Para Dressage Dream - Friday December 17th 2.00pm. More details of both will be published next month – or email: corfecastlelibrary@gmail.com Corfe Castle Community Library Opening Hours are: Monday 3.00 -5.00 p.m. Wednesday 11.00 -12.00 a.m. and 3.00 -5.00 p.m. Saturday 10.00 - 12.00 noon. Martyn Jessop, Secretary of the Friends of Corfe Castle Community Library

The Purbeck Gazette

Swanage Set For Second Town-Wide Halloween!

hen it seemed so many things weren’t allowed due to the pandemic, we accepted it, even our children. Everything was different, probably scary for them, but they were all so strong. They adapted. Then they were about to lose the one day in the year when they can pretend to be anyone imaginable, and candy is like gold. They were cancelling Halloween. My name is Heather. My husband Matt and I are one of many who own a shop in Swanage. At the time, shops had reopened and safety guidelines were already in place. I saw this as an opportunity to let everyone have some much-needed fun, the kind I enjoyed while growing up. I was born in America, but England is my home. Over there, shops have been hosting Halloween since I was little. Also, for safety reasons, just different ones. They still continue today. So, I went into Swanage’s shops with the idea last year and thankfully everyone was excited to do something for the children, agreeing it was a great idea. Swanage stepped up. It was heart-warming seeing so many families out together enjoying themselves, the children all in amazing costumes. Afterwards the shops were surprised by messages we received from appreciative parents, which left us feeling incredibly grateful. It was a huge hit. I love living in such an amazing community and hope anyone who comes to visit sees how special the huge heart of Swanage is. When shop owners approached us this year, asking would it happen again, I was thrilled to say yes. Only a couple shops didn’t participate last year so we’re hoping they will join in this year. Our second annual Swanage Trick or treat event will be Saturday October 30th, from 10am-5pm. You can contact us at 4Matt Framers and Gallery by phone, in person, or Facebook. Photo: Morguefile stock image.

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The Royal British Legion

One Hundred Years

his year, the Royal British Legion celebrates its One Hundredth Birthday. In order to fully understand the reasons why it was set up it, is necessary for us to look back to The Great War of 19141918. The death and destruction in the First World War was on a scale that humanity had never witnessed before. History is full of wars, but until WW1 the death and destruction was limited in numbers and usually confined to small geographical areas. Across the British Empire the dead numbered around 900,000, which is a staggering figure. But the dead, once properly buried could be mourned and commemorated; there had also been over two million wounded and what was left behind was a dreadful legacy of men disabled by the War, and, of course, the War-widows. It became increasingly clear that there was need for an organisation to represent those left widowed or disabled by the War and in 1920, a conference brought together the various organisations that had sprung up. With mutual agreement, the different organisations amalgamated under the single title of The British Legion on 14th May 1921. The Prince of Wales was Patron and Earl Haig the first President. One of the first activities by the British Legion which has continued to the present day was the decision to launch a Poppy Appeal, timed to coincide with the anniversary of Armistice Day on 11th of November. The British Legion was thus central to the continuing commemoration of Remembrance Day and the later adoption of Remembrance Sunday. Then, in 1927, the first Festival of Remembrance was organised by the British Legion. The British Legion had become the central focus of the Nation’s Remembrance, and it played a central role in the funeral of Earl Haig, an event which was a moment of deep national mourning. Field Marshal Douglas Haig had been the Commander-in-Chief of British forces on the Western Front and is well known for that. But what is less well known is his work on behalf of returning soldiers, especially the wounded. Even before the war had ended, he had, on many occasions, expressed the view that the Government had a responsibility to these men, and that it should look after them. He was instrumental in persuading a number of existing ex-service groups to amalgamate and form the British Legion and agreed to become the Legion’s first President.

The Purbeck Gazette

Keys To New Affordable Homes In Worth

imborne-based housing association East Boro (EBHT), part of the Aster Group, has handed over the final sets of keys to the occupiers of nine new affordable homes in the village of Worth Matravers. The development at Old Quarry Close, provides local people with much needed affordable housing to rent or buy in this popular village. The development is made up of one and two-bedroom bungalows and two and three-bedroom houses. Four properties were available for purchase by local first-time buyers at 75% of the market value through the Low Cost Home Ownership (LCHO) scheme, with a covenant ensuring that any resales are also to local people. The remaining five homes were let at social rent to local people nominated by Dorset Council. Properties sold through the LCHO scheme have a restriction on resale to ensure priority is given to local people and the properties are always sold at 75% of market value. That way local people will always be able to benefit from the reduced sale price of these homes in Worth Matravers. EBHT worked in partnership with Dorset Council over a number of years to secure planning permission for the development at Old Quarry Close as an ‘exception site’, thereby bringing affordable homes for local people to the area. Exception sites are for affordable housing development in rural locations where market housing would not normally be permitted because of planning policy. One of the new homeowners said: “We’re very happy with our new home in Worth. There is no doubt that without this scheme, we would not have been able to afford a house of our own in Purbeck.” EBHT chief executive, Kevin Hodder, said: “Affordable housing in rural areas is very hard to find, particularly in a popular village with one of the largest percentage of second homes in England. This really was years in the planning, and we couldn’t be more delighted to provide affordable homes for rent and purchase for local people in a location they love.” Cllr Graham Carr-Jones, Dorset Council portfolio holder for housing, added: “The development of high-quality affordable housing is one of Dorset Council’s key objectives and this site of nine properties in Worth Matravers helps meet that priority. This scheme delivers much needed accommodation for local people by delivering not only affordable rented homes but low-cost home ownership. “The council is pleased to be able to work in partnership with East Boro, part of the Aster Group, to provide homes in this rural area, meeting the housing needs of local people and sustaining the community.” For further information on EBHT please go to www.ebht.org.uk. For more information about Aster group please go to www.aster.co.uk.

View from the Lookouts ast month’s article finished with a thanks to all those who had supported our fundraising activities during the summer. As well as raising funds to keep both stations operational, the events have given us a much-missed opportunity to talk to the public about our work. Over the next few months, we hope to run more events, so come and see us! The first of these will be a quiz evening, at the Swanage Conservative Club, on Wednesday 3rd November (6:30pm for 7:00pm). Tickets are £9 and include Ploughman’s supper. Tickets can be obtained from the Peveril Point Lookout; @Sixtyone in the High Street and Corben’s Estate Agents in Station Road. With the Remembrance events that occur, November is often a month for reflection. During WW1 and WW2, the waters around the Dorset Coast were on the front line and, sadly, many sailors lost their lives when their vessel was sunk. One vessel in particular has a close connection to both stations: HMT Arfon. The Arfon was built in 1908 in Goole, Yorkshire and spent most of her early working life working out of Milford Haven in South Wales. Her name reflects her Welsh roots and means “facing Anglesey”. In 1914, she was requisitioned by the Royal Navy for war duties and was converted into a mine-sweeper. The trawlers of the time were ideal for this task as the mine sweeping involved towing a heavy cable through the water to cut the mine’s anchor. Often carried out in a pair, it was dangerous task and by the end of the war over 300 trawlers had been sunk, with the loss of fifty percent of the crews, a much higher rate of loss than that experienced by troops serving in the Western Front trenches. Equipped with a 6-pounder gun, Her Majesty’s Armed Trawler Arfon spent three years based at Portland, patrolling the waters along the Dorset coast. Once the trawl wire had cut the mine tether, the gun was used to explode the now floating mine. On the morning of 30th April 1917, HMT Arfon was mine sweeping with HMT Vera Grace, just to the south of St Alban’s Head. At 9:45am an explosion rocked the vessel, and she sank in less than two minutes. Whether she had hit a mine underwater or had collided by a mine that had been “swept” is unclear. The Admiralty report into her sinking records that a “swept” mine had just been blown by two other vessels sweeping nearby. Only three of her crew survived. Giving evidence to the Court of Enquiry, Deck Hand Walter Gleeson reported: “The explosion took place under the starboard gallows and knocked me down. I got up and jumped over the starboard quarter and was sucked under. I was afterwards picked up by the Alaska’s boat and taken to the Trinity Vessel Warden and thence to Portland Hospital.” The Arfon lay on the seabed for nearly one hundred years before being rediscovered and identified by Martin and Bryan Jones from Swanage Boat Charters. Martin is Swanage NCI’s training officer. Concerned about uncontrolled salvage of the vessel, Martin and Bryan worked closely with Historic England to protect the vessel and in 2016, the Arfon

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joined the list of Historic England’s fifty-two protected wreck sites. The designation means that it is illegal to disturb the wreck and it can only be visited under the supervision of a licensee. The team from Swanage Boat Charters carried out extensive research on the wreck and were able to identify and find some of the descendants of the crew. On the centenary of the Arfon’s sinking, twenty descendants of the crew, together with Martin, Bryan and representatives of Historic England and the Maritime Archaeology Trust, gathered by the NCI Lookout at St Alban’s Head for a commemoration event (pictured, above). Despite the windy conditions, the poem ‘For the fallen’ was read out followed by a prayer by Janette Humberstone, a descendant of Edward Youngs, one of the men who died. The names of all the crew were read out. The men who died were John Abrams; William Thomas Babstock, James Francis Billam, Frederick John Robert Cox, James Doy, William Gray, William Henry Grayson, Arthur Joseph Smith, Charles Henry Stephenson, Edward James Youngs. With the exception of William Babstock, all the crew members lost that day are remembered on the Chatham Naval memorial in Kent, while Seaman Babstock’s name is remembered in Newfoundland, Canada on the Beaumont-Hamel Memorial. The three survivors were Walter John Gleeson; Malcolm Mcintyre; George White. McIntyre and White survived the war, but Walter John Gleeson was not as fortunate as he was killed later in 1917 when another minesweeper, HMT Caliph, was sunk. Following the reading of the names, the original steam whistle, beautifully restored, was sounded for the first time since the sinking. Using Morse code, it sounded the signal for “mine.” As we carry out our watches during November, many of us will pause for a minute or two and think of the sacrifice of the brave men and women who lost their lives during conflicts in the waters that we are watching. In our heads will be three words that sum up the Remembrance events; - ‘Lest We Forget’. This is NCI St Alban’s Head and NCI Swanage listening on Channel 65. NCI out. Images: top of page – Descendants of the Arfon’s Crew at the commemoration (credit Swanage Boat Charters) Below: Trawler similar to HMT Arfon

The Purbeck Gazette

Rotary: Christmas Hopes

wanage & Purbeck Rotary CIO is hoping to provide some festive cheer and raise much needed money for Rotary-supported projects this Christmas. Covid caused the cancellation of the Rotary fete for a second year but looking on the bright side, the popular Christmas Market will go ahead on Saturday 4th December. It will include a wide range of stalls and attractions with the focus on Christmas, including Santa In his grotto. The market gets more popular each year and is well worth a visit. The Rotary Christmas Shop was a huge success last year and with the generous support of the shop owners it will open again at 10 Station Road during November and December, selling Christmas crafts and produce, bric-a-brac and second-hand books. The Christmas Charity Mail provides a valuable service to those wishing to send cards locally. The Post Office will be based adjacent to the Rotary Christmas Shop. Post boxes will also be located at Langton Matravers (Village Store), Harmans Cross (Foley’s Garage), Corfe Castle (Dragon’s Bakery), Studland (Village Store) and Ulwell Swanage (Ballard Stores). Cards are 25p each and you can send your cards between 1-11 December. Santa’s Sleigh is ready to travel the streets of Swanage, Langton Matravers and Corfe Castle. It is an established part of Christmas celebrations, with both children and adults waiting to hear the sound of carols as it enters their road and see Santa waving from his sleigh. Routes and times will be included in the Purbeck Gazette in December and via social media. Rotary will also be involved with the switching on of the Christmas lights in Swanage on 27th November. There will be no Christmas Breakfast again this year but as per last year, Rotary hopes to give a Christmas stocking to elderly people on its Christmas Breakfast mailing list, thanks to the generous support from local businesses and other organisations. Swanage & Purbeck Rotary has traditionally supported an International Christmas shoebox project for children in Montenegro and Albania. Thanks to the wonderful support from local schools, Rotary Business Partners, Rotarians and Rotary Friends they have prepared 300 shoeboxes. For further information visit www.swanagerotary.com or social media.

Apply For East Stoke & Wool Community Chest

The Purbeck Gazette

ocal community groups and charities located in East Stoke, Wool, Bovington and East Burton are invited to submit applications for grants to the East Stoke and Wool Community Chest before this year’s closing date of 5 November. Nearly £6,000 is up for grabs made possible by the annual commitment from green energy provider Good Energy, from its Tout Hill Solar Farm. Each year, until 2039, an annual donation linked to inflation will be transferred to the Community Chest to benefit local projects. The Fund is now in entering its seventh year having already awarded more than £35,000 to over 35 local community projects. These include support to the Wool and Winfrith Football Club, Bovington Eco Community CIC, Dorset Wildlife Trust, Wool Primary PTFA, Wool Youth Club, Wool and Lulworth Guides, D’urberville Hall and East Stoke Village Hall, to name but a few. The monies are administered by the East Stoke & Wool Community Chest, a local group comprising of six volunteers who oversee the governance of the fund and to help ensure the monies are awarded to the most deserving local groups each year. Rebecca Cady, Chair of the Community Chest said, “It is a real pleasure and a privilege to be involved in this fund which over the last seven years has made such a positive local impact. We really look forward to seeing another wide range of applications coming forward again this round.” If you are considering applying, please email Liz for an application form at contacteswcc@gmail.com but do get your applications in on time as unfortunately late applications can’t be considered. You can also find out more about the Fund and the great work it has achieved on the group’s Facebook Page @ East Stoke & Wool Community Chest. Photo: Bovington Community Garden - project delivered by Bovington Eco Community CIC.

Support Trevor Chadwick Memorial Trust!

Your chance to win a stunning bronze maquette worth £1,500!

he Trevor Chadwick Memorial Trust would like to offer an open invitation to all those who have purchased raffle tickets for the beautifully crafted bronzed maquette (or prize money of £1500), as well as those people who would like to know more about the story behind Trevor Chadwick and the Trust, to come to the Mowlem Community Room at 7.30pm on Tuesday, 9th November, where the lucky prize winner will be drawn. It is a story that will astound you. Trevor Chadwick, an unknown Swanage school teacher, undertook a perilous job in Prague under the eyes of the Nazis in 1939, facilitating the rescue of endangered children on the ground. Trevor went on to save 669 children from certain death at the hands of the Nazis, by arranging transport on what was to become known as the Kindertransport. This came about as Jewish and other targeted people feared for the safety of their children after the terrible violence that took place on the 9th and 10th November in 1938, known as Kristallnacht, or ‘Night of Broken Glass’. The name refers to the wave of violent anti-Jewish pogroms which took place on those nights. Jewish businesses, home and synagogues were plundered and destroyed, windows were smashed, leaving glass littering streets throughout Germany, Austria and Czechoslovakia. Families entrusted Trevor with the lives of their children and he successfully brought 669 of them to the UK, unequivocally saving their lives whilst facing great danger himself. Swanage is marking the achievements of this remarkable man and the Trevor Chadwick Memorial Trust have been fundraising for a bronze statue to be erected in Swanage. The fundraising continues and we will hopefully be able to announce an unveiling date of the fabulous statue that has been crafted by the very talented Moira Purver in the not too distant future. In the meantime, come and enjoy a meeting with Trust members, have a chat and maybe walk home with a beautiful maquette valued at £1500.00!

The Purbeck Gazette

From Wareham To Wareham! By Julie Bradshaw

t is possible that the cranberries in the sauce which you eat with your turkey were grown in Wareham. Over 30% of the land in Wareham (pronounced as two words), Massachusetts, is used for the crop. Until 2006, another important employer in the town was the Tremont nail factory and the male Councillors of Wareham, Dorset, can now pin their cuffs with nail cuff links presented to them by the Moderator of Wareham, U.S.A. Making the first visit of a town representative to Dorset’s Wareham since 1877, Mrs Claire Smith was welcomed with coffee and Dorset apple cake by the Town Council on Monday 4th October. Mrs Smith, who was first elected Moderator in 2010 and has been re-elected every three years since, attributed her success to her enjoyment of government and her ability to be neutral and fair in the town’s affairs. She gave the example of a town meeting which she chaired in which the controversial issue of commercial development of a district currently occupied by a gravel pit, ponds, trees and detached houses was to be decided. Covid delayed the meeting until it could be held outside with chairs spaced three feet apart. It took three hours to register over 1,000 attendees and Mrs Smith allowed all 100 plus speakers in spite of continuous calls to ‘hold the vote now’. Town meetings, which are usually held six monthly and are open to all residents, are where decisions about the town are made. This is in contrast to the U.K., where elected Councillors, chaired by the mayor, decide. Wareham, Gateway to Cape Cod, lies between Boston and New York on the east coast of U.S.A. and has a population of 22,000. It became a Green Community at the end of 2018, which means it has an Energy Reduction Plan, a Fuel Efficient Vehicle Policy and has to reduce the energy the municipality uses by 20% or more after five years. It also has to make it easier for renewable energy facilities to find suitable locations and assure energy efficiency of new constructions and major renovations. I hope that Moderator, Mrs Smith, and her husband, a former fire fighter and a collector of fire service memorabilia, returned home with happy memories of Wareham, Dorset, and for the grandchildren, snow globes, a tiara and some English money.

Local Heritage List Campaign Progress

orset Council and BCP Council have appointed Land Use Consultants (LUC) to manage the Local Heritage List Campaign, which will enable communities of all ages and backgrounds across Dorset to nominate locally important buildings, sites, monuments and features to be included on new Local Heritage Lists. The project has been funded by a grant of £70,000, from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. The Local Heritage Lists will provide a free publicly accessible record of non-designated heritage assets, whose conservation will then be a material consideration in planning decisions. Later this autumn a public call for nominations will be announced on the Dorset Council and BCP Council websites and through other media channels, along with guidance on the criteria for assessment. These will be guided by Historic England’s standard criteria for Local Listing, but opportunities will be taken to identify local criteria that are specific to Dorset’s wide range of communities and heritage.

Mellow Fruitfulness

The Purbeck Gazette

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

utumn: the northern hemisphere cools down. Mist on morning windows, longer nights, less sunlight and many plants gently falling asleep for the duration of winter. Wild flowers die back, clematis, sea asters and thistle heads become white with old-age. Puffs of flying seeds spread where the wind wills. Crimson-faced goldfinches, prettiest of British birds, once confined to tiny hanging cages as domestic decoration, now flourish, gather in twittering ‘charms’ to pick seeds from autumnal dead heads. Dark sickle swifts evading autumn long ago left for Africa. Swallows gather along telephone wires or glide for flies, make midair meetings with fledged young to pass over the booty. They interweave, mixed with white-rumped, blunter-tailed house martins. The crowd thins as parties leave southwards. Wheatears flit along walls and fences, each sporting the white rear said to be the origin of their name. I saw none on the spring migration, not merely because we did not coincide – that white flash along a fence is hard to miss – but because the fine weather of April inspired them to fly onwards to northern England, Scotland where many breed. Only a handful nest along the south coast. Bad weather and poor visibility delay them at their first landfall to recover from the Channel crossing before continuing inland. Little green warblers gather and disperse, too, flitting along the hedges, chiffchaffs stopping to give occasional voice to their repetitive call. All are impelled by irresistible, half-understood pressures. There must be an optimum density of increased coastal population competing for a limited supply of insect food intensifying the impetus that encourages them to fly beyond a coast guarded by sharp-eyed falcons, for whom each migrant offers a potential snack. Their moving out leaves food and space for other migrating birds. Walking down Priest’s Way in a daze, I passed the planned turning and came to a large sycamore through which little groups of leaf warblers were passing. Assuming them to be chiffchaffs is simply laziness. In the late 18th century Gilbert White subdivided those very-similar birds in three: chiffchaffs, willow warblers and wood warblers, each with its own slight characteristics, each with an individual song. (Back in the 1960s there was an eccentric bird at Durlston which punctuated ‘chiff-chaffs’ with willow warbler trills. What was his parentage?). Migration was a late discovery; next to White on my bookshelf is Gosse’s 1860 Romance of Natural History, its chapter V dedicated to hibernation in swallows. Whilst dismissing the then-common theory that migrating birds actually pass the winter under the mud of ponds, Gosse is serious over the possibility of hibernation, quoting a rustic verse: ‘The bat, the bee, the butterfly, The cuckoo and the swallow, The corncrake and the wheatear. They all sleep in the hollow.’ Some passing birds remind me of their increasing absence from Purbeck. While sitting on the lawn on an open-day trying to sell my ‘Purbeck Arcadia: Dunshay Manor and the Spencer Watsons’ I saw the occasional Missel Thrush fly undulating by: another bird, with its sad, early song, that diminishes. A loud, brave protector of its nest, it made the boyhood climb to take a peek lightly threatening! The leaves brown. Not those of the big trees: that comes later. The withered russet tops of young sycamores are not seasonal but the work of grey squirrels nibbling the bark, cutting water and food supply. The changing colours of deciduous leaves as winter comes closer is self-induced, the shutting down of supplies setting the leaves to dry and die. In the garden the vegetable pattern has changed. Lettuces are long gone,

the potatoes and onions dug and stored – but they need checking; a few delinquent rotters can infect the rest. Neglected courgettes have become marrows and there are fewer great, golden blooms: they taste well fried in thin batter, floral pakoras. The squashes are smaller, fewer this year. Suits me! There are often too many, which rot before being reduced to soup. The beans will continue for a couple more weeks. A small stock is already stored in my tiny freezer. The aubergines? That plural is a pretension: flowering late, mauve petal nimbus around a saffron sun, there is only one fruit along the row. I never follow the rules of good gardening, put things in too late, neglect to offer them chemical food nor protect them with sprays. Soon it’ll be back to basics: leeks, prospering despite the idleness of leaving them overcrowded, Brussels sprouts and spinach. This year, the brassicas suffered cruelly from cabbage white butterfly caterpillars to be murdered by hand but never quite enough. Their leaves became networks of veins, but new ones are developing as the butterfly season ends. As summer is forgotten and sunshine lessens the fewer butterflies are often battered, ragged-edged, faded. Some, misled by a short break of warm sunshine, have emerged, smart and shiny. Jed, long drawn to butterflies, acquired a neglected caravan in a neighbouring meadow which, coincidentally is the richest butterfly patch in the area. He has moved, but I still call it Jed’s meadow and, in September, walk through the last of its purple-flowered knapweed, sainfoin, yellow ragwort and fleabane flushing common, and occasional holly, blues, brightly-tanned small coppers (it has been a good year for them), a single comma often perched on blackberries, which have also flourished and sometimes a migrant painted lady. There are bright red admirals, which will continue for a few weeks yet, with a penchant for banks of ivy flowers. Haunter of shady lanes, the speckled wood flies late, too, but less conspicuously. Last week, walking along Nine Barrow Down overlooking all this early autumn landscape, I came upon a created, lethal epidemic. Unmoving, head swollen and blind, panting noisily crouched a lost myxie rabbit. It was aware of a presence from the sound of my approach, but I might be a sheep and anyway, in its private darkness, where should it run? Traditional wisdom taught that the Australians developed the myxomatosis virus. More nonsense, of course: it was endemic as a mild rodent disease in parts of the Americas. Experiments in Australia, where they had become a pest, showed it to be lethal in European rabbits so the Australians introduced it there. It was a massacre. A French landowner brought it to his estate and from there, aided and unaided, it spread across Europe. Rabbits, common in my childhood, suddenly became a crawling brigade of blinded horror, then a rarity. They gradually recovered, acquiring some immunity, but regular resurgence of the disease still takes its toll. Covid is mild compared to myxie. With rabbits notable by their absence, the latest wave must have been going on all year. Only recently have they returned, unwelcomed, to my garden. While writing last week, I glimpsed a pretty little bunny amongst the vegetables and, there being nothing small and vulnerable, let it be. An hour later, looking back, a large buzzard was having it for breakfast, a kinder, quicker fate than myxie. Disturbed, it flew over the hedge carrying limp baby bunny in one claw.

The Purbeck Gazette

Sport

Jurassic Racers Return To Swanage

fter almost two years when it has been impossible to host visiting crews, Swanage Sea Rowing Club was finally able to hold a small regatta last month. On a beautiful sunny Saturday, the seafront at Monkey Beach was filled with colourful traditional Cornish pilot gigs from five clubs belonging to the Jurassic region of the sport. Weymouth, Lyme Regis, Bridport, Langstone and Poole all sent crews and boats to compete with Swanage in one of the first gig regattas to be held anywhere in the country since the beginning of the Covid pandemic. Over the course of the day ten races were held over a mile-long course from near Shep’s Hollow to the Pier. The events ranged from Men’s and Women’s A and B crews, to Veterans (40+), Supervets (50+), Masters (60+) and Mixed. Meanwhile club members were serving bacon rolls and a delicious selection of home-baked cakes on the club forecourt to sustain the rowers in their efforts. The overall winners of the event were Langstone, who triumphed in four events. Although only winning one event, Swanage came second overall, and almost every club which attended took away at least one prize. Everyone was delighted to be there and many visitors enjoyed watching from the seafront. Gig rowing is a very inclusive sport and Swanage Sea Rowing Club always welcomes new members and runs Learn to Row (L2R) courses regularly, so no previous experience is necessary. If you are interested in joining look at the web site swanagesearowingclub.org.uk or Facebook Swanage Sea Rowing Club for further details. Pictured, left: Weymouth Rowing Club Preparing to Race

Swanage & Wareham Rugby Football Club SALISBURY 31pts SWANAGE & WAREHAM 3pts wanage & Wareham Rugby Club had to travel to Salisbury for their first league game of the new season, and it turned out to be an unpleasant trip. A mistake by Swans defence had a Salisbury winger hacking the ball on and diving in the corner after the first minute of the game. Swans tried to reply but a knock on enabled the hosts to clear. The game was even for the next fifteen minutes, but a move by Salisbury’s backs after 18 minutes led to another score in the corner.(10pts – nil). After 27 minutes a break away from a Salisbury centre, split Swans defence and he went in under the posts(17pts – nil).Straight from the restart Swans received a penalty and Swans’ fly half Matt Spencer put the ball through the posts. (17pts – 3pts) at half time. Swans were much better in the first part of the second half and should have reduced the arrears, but once again mistakes prevented them scoring. On 57 minutes a clever cip and chase by Salisbury’s scrum half had him scoring under the posts for a converted try (24pts -3pts). Swans had a few injuries, but still could not penetrate the Salisbury defence, and with ten minutes to go Salisbury managed another try close to the posts which was converted making the final score Salisbury 31pts Swanage & Wareham 3pts Swans’ team: Dillon, T.Holland, H.Colton, L.Hardy, M.Spencer, C.Tomes, Z.wyburgh, C.Foskett, N.Audley, C.Joynt, L.Smith, J.Ginders, M.Robert, M.Seaton, S.Waterman, J.Cockwell, W.Veremu In contrast, Swanage & Wareham seconds took on Salisbury seconds, and in an entertaining game, Swans 2nds managed to score five tries without conceding to come out winners at 29pts to nil. SWANAGE & WAREHAM 5pts SWINDON 10pts Although it was a low scoring game, it was a thoroughly entertaining contest. It was a game that Swans should have won, having had much more of the territory and possession during the game.

From the kick-off, Swans were in the Swindon 22, and they remained in there for the first ten minutes before giving away a penalty so the visitors could clear their lines. A second penalty a minute later on Swans 10-metre line had Swindon centre Adam Westall landed the penalty from 45metres to give Swindon the lead at 0pts – 3pts against the run of play. From there on the play was frantic, with both sides throwing the ball wide, with some ferocious tackling from both sides, but with Swans having the upper hand. However, after half an hour Swans gave away a couple of penalties taking Swindon up to Swans 5 metre line, and from a resulting scrum Swindon powered over the line with Swindon No.8 Wayne Lower touching down in the corner. Adam Westall added the extras giving Swindon a 10pts advantage at half time. From the restart Swindon were on the attack in Swans 22 for the first five minutes, but Swans cleared their lines mounting an attack of their own through the backs. On fifty minutes, Adam Westall missed a penalty conversion attempt to put Swindon further ahead. Just before the hour mark Swans received three penalties on the trot taking them into the Swindon 22. From the scrum the ball was worked back to the three quarters when” Big D.Degei, who came on as a replacement, scrambled over the try line in the corner. The conversion was missed. (5pts – 10pts). In hour the last quarter of an hour it was a perpetual Swans attack inside the Swindon 22, A number of penalties were conceded by Swindon, Swans tried lineouts, scrums, throwing the ball out to the three quarters, but whatever they did the Swindon defence coped. In the last five minutes Swans managed several scrums close to the try line, some were collapsed by Swindon, a yellow card was issued to a Swindon flank forward but the referee refused to award a penalty try and at the end of the game Swindon put the ball out of play. Swans’ team: K.Barton,O.Dillon,I.Veremu,T.Holland,R.Ferguson,A. Rokoua,L.Robinson. N.Audley,C.Foskett,Z.Wyburgh,L.Smith,C.Joynt,L.Tuimasala,Z.Walton,M. Seaton, S.Waterman,W.Ravanokula, T.Qioleua D.Degei OTHER RESULTS Bridport 1st XV 25pts Swanage & Wareham 2nd XV 59pts (D&W 1S) Lytchett Minster 1st XV 67pts Swanage & Wareham 3rd XV 7pts (D&W 2S)

Motoring

The Purbeck Gazette

Dorset Confirmed For Extreme E Season 1 Final

xtreme E, the sport for purpose electric off-road racing series, has confirmed that its Season 1 finale, ‘The Jurassic X Prix’ will take place in Bovington on 18-19 December 2021. The exciting series sees electric SUVs competing in extreme environments around the world to promote the adoption of electric vehicles and clean technology solutions in the quest for a lower carbon future for the planet. Its global voyage started in March 2021 and has so far included stops in Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Greenland, and includes some of the biggest names in motorsport, with teams owned by Lewis Hamilton, Jenson Button and Nico Rosberg among more. It’s also the first ever fully gender equal motorsport, featuring top British racers Catie Munnings and Jamie Chadwick amongst its female talent. Alejandro Agag, Extreme E Founder and CEO, said: “I’m very excited by this race location – our first event on UK soil. This move is a poignant shift in our mission to race in remote, far-away places to highlight the effects of climate change, as more increasingly, the issues we talk about are literally happening in our backyards, so it felt like the right time to bring the spotlight home, and help the army reduce its own carbon footprint. “The world needs to move forward when it comes to the combustion engine and many other practices, and what better way to symbolise that than with a Jurassic themed X Prix. Unless we push forward with climate and sustainability action, certain species risk becoming extinct, and that is something we simply cannot ignore any longer.” Bovington is a well-known British Army military base and sits just off the Jurassic Coastline. Extreme E is working closely with the British Ministry of Defence and Army which has recently revealed its climate change and sustainability strategy. The strategy combines the mitigation of environmental impact whilst maintaining military output. It aims to do this by reducing emissions and scaling up the transition to renewables, thus contributing to the UK’s aim to be net zero by 2050. Efforts have started already with the Army piloting electric armoured vehicles and carbon efficient accommodation.

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, 61,360 miles....................................................................................................... £5,995 2019/69 Ford Mondeo Titanium Edition Hybrid Estate, 5-dr, estate, automatic, 2.0L, white platinum, one owner, Drivers Assistance Pack, Led headlamps, Power Tailgate, Duel Zone Climate Control, Leather Upholstery, Anti-lock Brake System with Brake Assist, Alloy Wheels, Cruise control and Speed Limiter, Front and Rear Electric Windows, Electrically Folding and Heated Door Mirrors,, Height Adjustable Drivers Seat, Keyless Entry, CD Player, Immobiliser, Sync3 Nav with 8” Touch Screen,, Hill Start Assist, Automatic Headlights and Automatic Windscreen Wipers, LED Daytime Running Lights, Front and Rear Parking Sensors with Camera,, Isofix Child Seat Anchor Points, Multi-function Trip Computer................................£25,495 2021/21 Ford Kuga ST Line 225Ps PHev, 500 miles, 2.5L, automatic, 5-dr, hatchback, Lucid Red, Our Demonstrator, St Line Specification with Technology Pack, 19 Inch Alloy Wheels, Duel Zone Climate Control, Part Leather Upholstery, Anti-lock Brake System with Brake Assist, Alloy Wheels, Remote Central Locking, Cruise control and Speed Limiter, Electrically Adjustable and Heated Door Mirrors, Height Adjustable Drivers Seat, Keyless Entry, Immobiliser, Bluetooth, Height/Reach Adjust Steering Wheel, Hill Start Assist, Automatic Headlights and Automatic Windscreen Wipers, Dedicated Cornering Lights, LED Daytime Running Lights, Rear Parking Sensors, Sync3 Navigation with 8” Touch Screen..................£34,995 2014/14 Ford Kuga Titanium X 2.0 Tdci 4 x 4, 89,800 miles, diesel, manual, 2.0L, 5-dr, ‘Ginger Ale’ colour, FSH, Supplied By Us With full Service History, 4 x 4,Duel Zone Climate Control, Leather Upholstery, ABS, Front Passenger Airbag Deactivation, Panoramic roof, Alloy Wheels, Cruise control and Speed Limiter, Remote Central Locking, Front and Rear Electric Windows, Electrically Adjustable and Heated Door Mirrors, Electric Seats, Height Adjustable Drivers Seat, FSH, Alarm, CD Player, Immobiliser, Deadlocking System, Bluetooth, Height/Reach Adjust Steering Wheel, Hill Start Assist, Automatic Headlights and Automatic Windscreen Wipers, Dedicated Cornering Lights, Rear Parking Sensors...........................................£9,495

Extreme E is a partner to the UN’s Race to Zero campaign as well as Count Us In, which challenges its fans to take steps which reduce their own carbon footprints. These collaborations are all focussed on tackling the global climate crisis and with road transport currently accounting for 75% of the global emissions associated with transportation, accelerating the move to clean mobility by 2030, in line with government goals, is key to success. Extreme E will continue with its Legacy Programme format which aims to leave long-lasting positive impact in each country in which it races, with exact details to be revealed in the weeks leading up to the end of year event. The racing will be as exciting as ever with a course designed to include natural obstacles putting the all-electric ODYSSEY 21 through its paces to crown the eventual winning combination of car, team and driver. Each team fields both a male and female driver who will complete a lap each with a Driver Switch built into the format. With points up for grabs throughout the race weekend, some of the best drivers in the world plus the instant speed of all-electric mobility, the concluding X Prix is set to be a showstopper.

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 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 2016 (16) VAUXHALL INSIGNIA 1.8 VVTi SRi NAV in Black, Sat Nav, Bluetooth, Cruise Control, Electric Windows, Electric Mirrors, Climate Control, Alloys, Only 37000 miles with FSH..............................................£7995 2016 (66) SKODA CITIGO 1.0 MPi SE 5 Dr in White, Bluetooth, Radio/MP3 Player, USB Port, Electric Front Windows, Only £20 a year Road Fund Licence, 16000 miles...............................................................................£6795 2014 (14) VAUXHALL CORSA 1.4 SXi 3 Dr in Siver, Air Con, Electric Front Windows, Elec Mirrors, Radio/CD Player, 69200 miles...............................£4295 2013 (63) VAUXHALL CORSA 1.4 ENERGY 5 Dr in Met Blue, Electric Front Windows, Electric mirrors, Air Con, Alloys, Radio/CD Player, One Owner From New with FSH.................................................................................£2995

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

Business Matters Landlords

Economic Update After a strong second quarter, global markets have started to cool with concerns over inflation and interest rates in the UK and the US while, in China, there are concerns about a regulatory crackdown on areas such as private tuition and video games, and large-scale potential corporate bankruptcy. However, Asia arguably remains an area of long-term growth, with innovation at the heart of many businesses and a rapidly expanding middle class. Inflation in the UK is being caused by increased demand and a general shortage of key products and this has caused the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee members to favour a modest tightening of policy, including interest rate rises, in the medium term. This was expected to happen at some point after the Covid-19 crisis but may come about quicker than had been originally anticipated. A reduction in the supply of key energy sources has seen gas prices rise 72% since February with the price of oil topping US$80 per barrel for the first time in three years. Rising gas and electric prices have forced a small number of energy firms into administration with the Ofgem price cap protecting private customers (but not offering any protection to corporate customers) and severely impacting energy companies’ ability to make a profit. Lack of HGV drivers has also been an issue with the general delivery of goods, resulting recently in the widespread panic buying of fuel at most of the UK’s 8,000 service stations. In the UK, Covid-19 vaccines are being offered to over-12s while many people are set to receive booster vaccinations this autumn. Businesses are adapting and trying to return to some normality while workers are, in many cases, returning to their workplaces. Infection rates remain high, but the vaccination programme seems to be helping to reduce hospital admissions and deaths. Over the last three months, to 30th September, the UK stock market has shown a small rise. Base rates remain unchanged at 0.1% and the Consumer Prices Index including owner occupiers’ housing costs (CPIH), rose by 3% in the 12 months to August 2021, up from 2.1% in the 12 months to April 2021. This increase of 0.9% is the largest increase recorded since the index started in January 2006, but it is seen as a temporary change. UK house prices have continued to rise, rising by 1.7% in September 2021 according to the Halifax House Price Index. This is the largest monthly increase since 2007. The average UK property price is now £267,587 and annual price inflation is at 7.4%. The end of the Stamp Duty holiday at the end of September is, however, expected to result in the housing market cooling. Uncertainty remains an issue both in the UK and globally, and financial markets hate uncertainty. Volatility is, therefore, likely to remain as economies emerge from the pandemic. 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

NOVEMBER EDITION DEADLINE NOON, 8th OCT

If you are a landlord, it is important that you are aware of expenses you can and cannot claim from your rental income. As a rule, these expenses must be wholly and exclusively for the purposes of renting out the property in question. In some circumstances part expenses can be claimed where a proportion of expenses incurred relate to your property business. Types of deductible revenue expenditure commonly paid for by a landlord include: • General maintenance and repairs to the property (but not improvements). Water rates, council tax, gas and electricity. • • Insurance costs. Letting agent and management fees. • • Qualifying legal and accountancy fees. Direct costs such as phone calls, stationery and advertising for • new tenants. The tax relief on mortgage costs for residential landlords has been restricted to the basic rate of tax since April 2020. The Replacement of Domestic Item Relief allows landlords the ability to claim tax relief when they actually replace furniture, furnishings, appliances and kitchenware in a rented property. There are a number of conditions that must be met to claim the relief. You should also ensure that you keep a record of any capital expenditure which has been incurred on an investment property. These expenses cannot be claimed as revenue expenditure against property income but can usually be offset against any Capital Gains Tax when selling a property.

The Purbeck Gazette

Help Is At Hand If You’re Worried About Your Finances

orset residents are reminded to reach out for support if they are experiencing financial difficulties or are feeling stressed or worried. As some Government interventions due to the pandemic come to an end, Dorset Council continues to work closely with Citizens Advice through the Reaching Out campaign which signposts to the support available for residents who are struggling. Cllr Laura Miller, Dorset Council Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care and Health said: “We know that some people may need some support over the coming months as they face increased pressures on their finances. Whether you’re worried about paying the rent or mortgage, or struggling to keeping up with bill payments, or if think you may need help to access free school meals or benefits - it’s best to reach out early for support if you can. “Our colleagues at Dorset Citizens Advice are ready and waiting at the end of the phone to help you. All conversations are confidential, and they will work with you to find a way out of any immediate problems you are facing and help you plan for the longer term. “We are also working with partners across Dorset to support the mental health of residents. If you’re worried about your mental health you can find lots of mental health and wellbeing support on the Public Health Dorset website.” Daniel Cadisch, Chief Officer, Citizens Advice Central Dorset said: “Some people may find themselves struggling financially as furlough and universal credit top ups come to an end. If you’re struggling with living costs and

are unable to pay bills, rent or mortgage repayments, we urge you to seek help as early intervention is key. Our team of advisers are waiting to help you now. They’ll also explain which bills can cause you more problems if you don’t pay them, the potential consequences and extra support that may be available.” Telephone Dorset Citizens Advice on Freephone 0800 144 8848 or visit: www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/reaching-out Citizens Advice can provide free, confidential advice on a wide range of financial issues including: • Council tax payments • Managing bill payments • Loans and overdrafts • Unauthorised lenders (loan sharks) • Claiming benefits • Managing living costs

The Purbeck Gazette

Rent Arrears Up By £88m Rent arrears up by £88 million during pandemic waves, hitting a total of £365 million he latest research by Birmingham estate and lettings agent, Barrows and Forrester, examines the true impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on landlords due to rent arrears among private rental tenants in England, revealing that the total amount of arrears during the initial wave of the pandemic was dwarfed by arrears during the second. There are 4.8 million private rented households in England. During wave one of the pandemic restrictions figures from the ONS estimated that 7% of these households, equalling 335,860 homes, were at least one month behind on their rent payments. The average rent in England in July 2020 was £826 per month. This means the total rent arrears during wave one was at least £277.3 million. However, given that a number of households were more than one month in arrears, this is a relatively conservative figure. During wave two of the pandemic, the number of households in at least one month’s arrears rose from 7% to 9% which means wave two saw some 431,820 private rental households fall into arrears. The average cost of renting was also higher during wave two than during wave one, rising from £826 to £846 per month. So, with almost 432,000 homes at least one month behind on rent, Barrows and Forrester estimates the cash total of arrears to have been at least £365.3 million. This marks an increase of 31.75% from wave one, a pounds and pence difference of just over £88 million. When analysing the England data on a closer regional level, it is revealed that four English regions saw arrears grow by more than the national average between wave one and wave two. The largest arrears growth was seen in the East Midlands, where between the first two waves of the pandemic, rent arrears increased by more than 36%. In both the South West and the East, arrears increased by 35.6%, and in the South East, they grew by 35%. The smallest regional increase between each wave was in London where total arrears grew by just over 24%, but due to London’s very high rent prices, this 24% growth accounted for almost £28.5 million, by far the largest sum in the nation. The country must now wait and see how rent arrears will be affected by a potential third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic which most analysts predict will occur between September and October 2021. Managing Director of Barrows and Forrester, James Forrester, commented: “The first two waves of the pandemic shook the rental market to the core. All of a sudden, many tenants who had no previous problems with paying rent on time found themselves out of work, or at least having their hours significantly cut as employers tried desperately to find a route to survival during an unprecedented moment in modern history. This left hundreds of thousands of people unable to afford steady rent payments and so the government stepped in to protect them, making it almost impossible for landlords to evict them during the height of the pandemic. As a result, when wave two arrived, we saw a 2% rise in the number of private rental households in arrears which came at a considerable cost to the nation’s landlords. We are starting to see normality return to the rental market but this will do little to comfort those landlords who are now severely out of pocket and should a third wave materialise, we will no doubt see yet another increase in the total amount of rental arrears seen across the market.”

DECEMBER EDITION DEADLINE NOON, 10th NOVEMBER

What Are The Benefits Of Leaving A Gift To A Charity In Your Will?

The Battens Charitable Trust was set up in 1985 by Battens Solicitors to help local charities across Somerset and Dorset. Since then the BCT has donated more than half a million pounds to deserving causes, and during the recent pandemic it was also proud to play its part by increasing donations to local food banks and supporting key workers at hospitals in the south west region. Many of those donations were a result of people gifting money through a Will. But what are the benefits of donating to charity in your Will? Private Client Associate Solicitor Natalie Mason explains: “Many charities such as the BCT rely on the generous and kind hearted donations from people who want to make a real difference to their local communities. But there are unexpected benefits if you choose to donate. Not only is a gift to charity free of inheritance tax (IHT), should you gift over 10% of your estate to charity and your estate is still subject to IHT, it will be charged at 36%, rather than the usual 40%.” What are the different types of legacy you can leave to a charity? You can leave a fixed sum of money, a particular asset, such as a shareholding or a house, or you can leave them a percentage of your estate. Can you leave your entire estate to a charity? Can this be disputed? In this country we have ‘testamentary freedom’, which means you are free to leave your estate to anyone you wish, including leaving everything to charity. However, potentially family members, anyone you have cohabited with over 2 years, and anyone who was financially dependent on you could make a claim against your estate under the Inheritance (Provision for Family & Dependents) Act 1975. Whether they are successful or not will depend on the circumstances. How is your donation passed onto your chosen charity after your death? Your Executor will need to account to a charity for your gift once they have access to your funds and after various deadlines have passed. This is usually after they have obtained a Grant of Probate which can take some months. In any event, they should if possible account to the charity within one year of the date of death, otherwise ‘statutory interest’ is added to any fixed sum of money left to a charity (but not a share of your estate). This is known as the ‘Executors’ Year’. How can a solicitor help you include a donation to a charity in your Will and ensure your wishes are carried out? A solicitor can advise you on the best way to leave a gift to a charity. There are different implications for leaving either fixed sums of money, specific assets or a share of your estate and the procedures after your death and any costs associated with administering them will be different. So, it is important that you take professional advice. The solicitor can also advise you on the IHT implications of leaving a gift to charity. For more information contact Natalie Mason on natalie.mason@ battens.co.uk or call 01929 500323. If you would like to make a donation, leave a legacy to the Battens Charitable Trust or apply for a grant, please contact the Trust team by emailing: bct@ battens.co.uk or by calling 01935 811304.

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

01929 768720

The Purbeck Gazette

From The Kitchen Garden...

By Regula Wright, Godlingston Manor Kitchen Garden

Rosehip Syrup

t the time of writing, it hardly seems autumnal at all. We’ve had quite a long spell of gorgeous sunny, warm and calm October weather and I don’t want to go indoors as I know those days are going to end soon. I’m careful not to squander these ‘easy’ workdays when I and my equipment don’t get soaked or blown about. Luckily, there are always plenty of jobs to do, even after the main growing season. It’s tidy up time and making plans for next springtime and with a bit of luck, it’s also thinking time. Maybe even some relaxing time and reading up on stuff time. Some crops are still going strong, the chards and beetroots are still looking good, the kales are well netted, the rocket is looking green and lush and the leeks and spring onions have done really well. All the spuds have come out now and there’s been quite a bit of slug damage this year. For various reasons, my ducky slug control weren’t able to do their job as well as in previous years. The winter storing squashes and pumpkins are stacked off the ground and curing nicely in the sunshine and the dahlias are still flowering generously. I really should cut them down and dig out the tubers to store over winter, but the flowers are just so cheerful and lovely - I can’t do it yet! It’s hard to believe in about six weeks’ time, I shall be making Christmas wreaths…. I really should get on clearing and cleaning the tomato poly-tunnel, but it’s been too warm to work in there of late. The netted bean tunnel is also still going, the borlotti and runner beans are drying on the plant, so much easier than having them in trays everywhere. The garlic cloves are planted, as are the overwintering onions and shallots and the seed potatoes are ordered for early spring 2022. Another area I really need to improve over the coming weeks are the composting bays. Accessing them is tricky as the surrounding area has gotten rather overgrown with all sorts - definitely not ideal for making clean compost and it is vital I have some well-rotted compost to mulch some areas thickly. I shall also endeavour to get some more seaweed as it’s truly one of the best overwintering mulches. As the saying goes, if you look after the soil, the soil will look after the plants and the plants will look after you. One of the plants I value highly is not actually cultivated but grows wild in the hedgerows in abundance. The rosehip is bright red and ripe this time of year to make into a super tasty cordial. These hips are also a winter food for wildlife, so I will not pick a bush bare. As children, we were told it’s high in vitamin C and keeps coughs and colds away and had to have a spoonful every day during the winter months. I now enjoy it as a long drink with fizzy water and a slice of lemon or added to hot water on a cold day as a fruity treat. It takes a bit of time and effort to make, but it’s well worth it! Rosehip Syrup: • Add 2 lbs of’ topped and tailed’, washed and rough chopped rosehips to 4 pts of boiling water.

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Bring back to the boil and remove from the heat. Cover and let stand for 30 minutes. Strain through muslin. Keep the liquid aside and return the mushy pulp to the pan with another 4 pints of boiling water. Repeat Combine the two batches of liquid in a clean pan and boil, reducing by half. Remove from heat and dissolve 2 lbs of sugar. return to heat and hard boil for 5 minutes. Use a funnel to pour into warmed sterilised bottles. After filling the bottles, screw cap on and put the bottles into a deep pan with a towel at the bottom. Fill the pan with hot water about 1 inch (2.5cm) over the caps and boil for about 10 minutes this syrup should now keep in a cupboard for about 3 months without refrigeration

The Purbeck Gazette

Natural Matters

The Purbeck Gazette

Further Afield

By John Garner

very so often, and usually when I’m somewhere along the coast path on a walk, I get the urge to go to Portland. It sits on the end of the spit of land over the sea and is often shrouded in a haze that adds to its allure. Sometimes I’m in the sea around Kimmeridge and looking west again (because it’s always in the same place folks) I’ll track the grey tail of Weymouth morphing into the steep wedge of Fortuneswell and trace it down to the point where it no longer appears to be terra firma, but I’m not sure if it’s the sea either. A sort of smudgy gap between what is solid ground and what is the wide and often treacherous water of the end of Portland. Now, you may think I’m romanticising Portland here, but it can be a very atmospheric place and this all adds to its mystery and appeal. I’ve spoken before about the fact that Portland is a favourite place for me, but I’ve not really seen it from the sea before. So, a trip to Portland it was and a different view of some fairly famous landmarks. You definitely get a different view of places from the sea. No matter how familiar they are to you, getting on a boat, or board or any other craft that takes you a little bit off the land and you’re looking back at the coast from a different perspective. Old sights become new ones. Scale changes. The approach to Portland is dominated by the magnificent natural phenomena of Chesil to your right and the possibly not quite as magnificent unnatural phenomena of mans’ contributions to the landscape on the left. To avoid the increasing winds on this particular day we put the kayaks in the water on the East side and paddled off. There are some pretty awful high rises looking out over the harbour, but it’s pretty easy to forget about these as you head out of the relative calm of the harbour, especially if you’re a bit of a novice paddler like me and you’re concentrating on not drowning once the chop gets up. There are also a number of remnants from the second world war which we explored. Apparently, Portland, being a strategic port in the channel, was attacked from the air some forty-eight times in the war, with something in the region of 532 bombs being dropped. It must have been a pretty frightening time to be living in and around Portland. It was also prominent in the preparations for D-Day. On this particular day we only got buzzed by some kite surfers, which whilst rattling along at a pretty good lick, didn’t really have the fire power to unduly alarm us. After the war a number of caissons were towed into the harbour to create a harbour wall to protect the naval fleet from the worst of the weather. Nope, I didn’t know what a caisson was either, but it’s a huge block of hollow concrete open at the bottom. Water is kept out by air pressure and they were generally used to allow for various work to be taken on under water. Two of the caissons still remain. I know because I paddled in between them and they’re quite impressive in their way. There’s also a disused set of buildings on one of the outer break waters which we explored. Not pretty, but part of the history of the area and interesting all the same. Portland is focussing more on its boat businesses and leisure potential

these days. The harbour was jammed with wind powered watercraft of just about any form you can imagine. There are sailing boats galore and on two occasions we diverted to manoeuvre around buoys swarming with small boats. Wind surfers and kite surfers abound some on traditional boards others on hydrofoil set ups which are becoming more and more popular and seem to glide at great pace over the water. We say other kayakers, people in a Canadian canoe and the obligatory paddle boarders. (If there’s a stretch of water to be had there’ll be a paddle boarder in the vicinity and more power to them, I say). Portland harbour is a fascinating blend of backwards and forwards looking. It has reinvented itself over and over again and is now probably, alongside Poole harbour, one of the go to places for water sports along this or any other coast. What you also get with Portland is the scale of its history. Yesterday, I was sat on my surfboard in Kimmeridge Bay. In a lull between sets I looked over at Portland in the diminishing light. It was circled with low cloud like the water born Saturn with a ring around it. I think I’ll do another trip soon. It seems like I’ve only scratched the surface of what it has to offer. Picture: Portland, by Tim Crabb

The Purbeck Gazette

It is that time of year when we may see lofts of several hundred Woodpigeon passing through on migration. Charms of Goldfinches can be seen, some of which may be heading to winter in Belgium, France or Spain. Members of Durlston’s Guillemot colony may be seen sheltering in their sea cliff cave. If you are lucky, you might see Brent Geese passing by. Watch the bushes to see which birds harvest berries from Cotoneaster whilst Badger latrines show that Blackberries and Sloes are still on their diet! In the Pleasure Ground, white Snow Berries offer more fruits, whilst near Long Meadow you can find the bright pink ball like fruits of European Spindle. Upon the woodland ﬂoor look out for bright orange Yellow Stagshorn fungi, only inches tall. Also protruding from the ground are grey / brown Dead Man’s Fingers. Sycamore leaves are dabbled by the black markings of Tar Spot fungus. Upon caravan terrace both Marjoram and Primrose have been seen in ﬂower even at this time of year! We apologise for any inconvenience whilst Seventh wave café is closed from 8th until 22nd November inclusive. This being for essential maintenance. However, you could pop into the Shed on a Monday afternoon for a “Cuppa and a Chat”. We have several Ranger led guided activities including a Pleasure

Grounds Walk, Pier to Park walk, a Rough Guide to Durlston. In addition, Walx offer a free taster into Nordic Walking with free use of Nordic Poles included, please book directly with https://walx.co.uk/ With Christmas approaching why not have a look at the varied items on sale in our shop? We have Andy Farrer’s ‘Isle of Purbeck 2022 Calendar’ full of fantastic landscape photography. The three different Durlston Christmas Cards were designed by Angela Webb, Gill Williams and Gina Marshall and raise funds to support the park. However, you might prefer to join Madelaine Devenay on her ‘Design & Make Christmas Cards’ workshop or visit the Belvedere Room during the ‘Christmas Decoration Drop-in Workshop’. Novembers Exhibition is Ilona Skladzien’s ‘The Same-Other’ featuring works from her residency at the international DRAW held in France. Through applied working processes and with the figurative modelling of paper, there are echoes of her experience through sight, touch and hearing, as well as the other senses. It is supported by Audio Descriptions created in collaboration with visually impaired performance artist Tam Gilbert, founder, and director of Dorset-based Persuasion Arts. Visit the Durlston website: https://www.durlston.co.uk/ Visit the Seventhwave website: https://7eventhwave.com/

Margaret Green Animal Rescue

Make a Donation, Make a Difference e don’t receive any Government funding and rely heavily on public support and donations to care for over 1,200 animals every year. By making a donation to our charity, you can help us to look after animals like Tilly (pictured, above). Tilly was showing signs of incontinence when she came into our care and it was clear that her teeth were in very bad

condition. After two serious operations, Tilly had all her teeth and over 100 stones in her bladder removed. This was an incredibly difficult time for Tilly, but we are so proud of the bravery she showed throughout the whole procedure. She will now be able to live a happy and pain free life. We are delighted that Tilly is doing very well and has now found her loving forever home! If you would like to make a donation to help animals in need like Tilly, please visit our website at: www.margaretgreenanimalrescue.org.uk Facebook Fundraiser Did you know that Facebook Birthday Fundraisers are a great way to help our rescue animals? It’s easy to set up and 100% of the funds raised will go towards looking after the animals in our care. Visit the Fundraisers tab on Facebook to set up your Birthday Fundraiser, to give you that extra ‘feel-good factor’ on your special day!

The Purbeck Gazette

Pheasant Season Time Across The UK

ctober 1st 2021 marked the start of this year’s pheasant season. To mark the start of the season, the UK’s largest shooting organisation, the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC) has highlighted the positive impact game shooting has on those who take part. Glynn Evans, BASC’s head of game and gundogs, said game shooting is not only good for conservation, the countryside and the economy, but that the positive impact it has on people’s wellbeing should not be underestimated. “Game shooting gives people a chance to get outdoors in a social and communal atmosphere and that is significant not just physically but mentally too – particularly after the difficult 18 months the Covid pandemic has presented us with,” he said. The benefits are backed up in a new scientific paper into the social, mental and wellbeing attributes of those who participate in game shooting. The paper, published this summer in the journal Ageing & Society, concludes that participation in shooting and shooting-related activities, such as beating and picking-up, results in a significantly better mental wellbeing than the national average. The findings are derived from a PhD Thesis undertaken at the Institute for Social Innovation and Impact at the University of Northampton. Items that scored high included reduced loneliness, strong identity, a sense of purpose, social support networks, physical exercise, spending time in nature and a strong rural and/or cultural heritage. The findings were linked to age, with older generations benefiting more from the physical and social side of shooting. The authors also concluded that

shooting aided the wider society, as those with a better physical condition and mental wellbeing would be less of a burden on the public health service. Glynn Evans continued: “This scientific paper is further validation of something that people who take part in shooting activities are well aware of. Getting outdoors in a social and communal atmosphere is significant not just physically but mentally.” Over the coming weeks pheasant will join other game meats such as partridge, grouse and venison on supermarket shelves. A healthy source of protein, wild game is a first-class alternative to farmed meats Annette Woolcock, BASC’s head of wild game, said: “As the season gets underway, there will be plenty of affordable, locally-sourced and delicious game meat available. Game meat is healthy, highly nutritious and, above all, delicious. Low in fat and high in vitamins and minerals, game meat is becoming the go-to source of protein.”

Blooming Wareham! Silver Gilt Award!

n July, Wareham Community Growers (pictured, above) were visited by Derek Beer to judge the town on behalf of the South and South East in Bloom (SSEIB) organisation. Following the demise of the Wareham in Bloom Committee in 2020, the Growers had entered Wareham for the regional competition in the ‘Small Town’ category for the first time since 2018. Results were announced in September - Wareham was awarded a superb Silver Gilt, only six points off Gold, a magnificent achievement for an organisation barely three months old at time of judging and with less than 20 members. Well done to the Town Council, to our WCG members, our partners, town organisations and all individuals who provided input on the SSEIB themes of Horticulture, Community and Environment. You have done Wareham proud! It was also an exciting night at Wareham’s Parish Hall on 24th September as the Growers held their first awards ceremony, attended by Mayor Keith Green, for their ‘Local In Bloom Competition’ featuring residents, businesses and retailers in several categories as judged by an independent judge. Results are as follows: Best Front Garden: 2 Seven Barrows Road. Highly Commended: 1 Bestwall Crescent Best Low Maintenance Front Garden: ‘Crundale’, Wyatts Lane Best Container Garden: Haven House, East Street. Highly Commended: 6 Cow Lane Best Community/Communal Garden: Hillyard Court, Mill Lane. Highly Commended (Joint winners): Wareham Hospital Garden and Northmoor Wildlife Haven Best Business/Civic Garden: Wareham Public Library. Highly Commended: Wareham Town Hall Best Public House: Kings Arms. Highly Commended (Joint winners): Duke of Wellington, Horse and Groom Allotments: Best Plot Bestwall: Plot 38, Northmoor: Plot 13

Judge Derek Beer attended to present the Silver Gilt award. In addition, a SSEIB Certificate of Excellence was presented to Wareham Youth Centre for outstanding work at the Youth Centre Garden and an allotment at Northmoor Allotment site. Cllr Beryl Ezzard was also presented with an ‘Advancing’ award for the work of the Friends of Wareham Railway Station in the ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood’ awards. Work will continue throughout the autumn and winter with planned bulb and tree planting, a fund-raising sale, litter picks with the Wareham Wombles, assistance with Town Council displays and an AGM. Anyone wishing to join us, please contact the WCG Secretary, Jacquie Hall at chrijaq@aol.com Your support would be warmly welcomed! Rod Curtis, Chairman, Wareham Community Growers

Nature Tots Starting At National Trust, Studland By Charlie Stockley (engagement volunteer) re you and your family interested in connecting with nature? Join us at Nature Tots, which is a fun and creative way for you and your children to connect with your local environment. We are offering a range of fun and interactive nature-based activities for you and your little ones. This will be a weekly event, happening every Monday. Each session will start at 10am and finish at 11:30am. Rain or shine we will be out, but please be aware that in adverse conditions these sessions will be cancelled. Meet at the picnic benches outside the Discovery Centre. These are free sessions, and no booking is required, parking is at Knoll Beach with normal parking charges applying. Bring snacks and dress for the outdoors! For more information email Dunescapes Engagement Officer, julia.galbenu@nationaltrust.org.uk.

The Purbeck Gazette

Gazette Gardening

Gardening to combat climate change with Simon Goldsack

Lovely, Lovely Leaves he Fall as the Americans accurately describe it, is when we get the beautiful colours on the trees and shrubs before the leaves cascade to the ground. This blanket of wet organic matter is not always appreciated by humans when it ends up in and around our houses. However, in these enlightened days of trying to work with nature and not against, we should be seeing this annual debris for the valuable resource that it is. Throughout summer leaves have been utilising the sun’s energy to take carbon from the atmosphere and combine it with other nutrients it has gathered through its roots, to manufacture complex organic compounds that it turns into more leaves, wood, flowers and seeds. Amazing! By this time of year, the sums just don’t add up for deciduous plants. Reduced light levels and lower temperature make photosynthesising inefficient, and storms damage the leaves and branches and could in fact cause the plant to blow over. Not a good outcome, so jettison the leaves to reduce damage to the plant and instead concentrate on putting out

more roots into that warm and now wetter soil. So, in nature, away from human intervention these leaves fall to the ground insulating the soil and roots. Gradually they are broken down by fungi, bacteria and invertebrates into a lovely rich peat-like substance called humus or leaf mould. Worms come up to feed on this and drag it deeper into the ground enriching the soil and their tunnelling improves surface drainage, relieves compaction and improves gas exchange for the respiring root system. Special fungi called mycorrhiza then help the roots gather up and recycle the nutrients from the humus layer ready for the plant to use in the next growing season. A wonderful cycle, and if allowed to occur in your borders you will rarely need to add artificial fertilisers to sustain the plants. However, it is necessary to remove leaves from lawns where the blanket will smother the grass. We also need to remove them from carparks, driveways and footpaths to stop people slipping or tracking mud into the house. To find out more and learn how to compost this valuable resource visit https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?pid=478

Arts & Entertainment

The Purbeck Gazette

The 34th Swanage Blues Festival

Words by Steve Darrington ugh Budden is a musician, bandleader, and MC etc at the Grand Hotel over the festival and helps me throughout the year too. On the eve of the festival, he said: “There’s 22 miles to Swanage, I’ve got a full tank of gas, a box of harmonicas, it’s raining and I’m wearing a pac-a-mac... HIT IT!” Opening the festival at the Red Lion, Jon Walsh sang and played guitar on a wide variety of blues and other genres to an appreciative audience. The pub reported a great weekend hosting Open Mic sessions and great entertainment. We welcomed back Swanage Bay View for a full programme led by industry supremo Robert Hokum and featuring some of the top acts he has booked for his own Ealing Festivals including but not limited to: double drummers, mega-jamming, and an Anything Goes Blues & Skiffle Session that performed with irreverence above and beyond the call of duty. He also arranged the Soul Blues Roots Collective show on Saturday evening: a collaboration of ‘rising stars of the modern blues/roots scene’ backed by experienced session musicians. This was a superb show that wowed the audience, many of whom couldn’t believe that there was no admission charge – just voluntary support wristbands for the weekend at £10 each. A new venue was The Globe Inn where Geoff’s Jams and a last-minute addition of John McClean & the Clan proved a huge success over the weekend, and we hope for the future too. An afternoon acoustic Jam Session with Robin Bibi at the Grand Hotel brought some excellent musicians and singers together. Later Robin joined The Mustangs on stage at the White Horse for an amazing evening. Saxophonist Terry Marshall of the legendary Marshall Amplifiers joined Dawg n Bonez at the White Swan, another surprise delight for the fans. Phil Astles of The Fabulous Duck Brothers said at the Isle of Purbeck Golf Club: “This was easily the best gig the Ducks have done in our short four-year history. Amazing crowd, amazing venue, amazing festival. Roll on 2022!”

Sunday evening Hugh Budden and the Blue Chords’ guests Rob Koral and Zoe Schwarz helped create a rousing and highly memorable Festival Finale. In conclusion, despite the ongoing effects of the pandemic, withdrawn venues, fuel shortage and weather warnings of 60 mph winds and flooding on the south coast, we did it again! Thanks to the musos, fans and venues. Fingers crossed for next year, 3-6 March and 6-9 October 2022. Thanks to the Black Swan for Stompin’ Dave; the Greyhound for Steve Brookes, Will Killeen and Lewis Cohen; Old Stables for Will Killeen; Tawny’s for Pete Harris and Lewis Cohen; and Herston Camping for Back Porch, Fezheads and Blue Touch. Thanks also to the outlets that made support wristbands available. If you couldn’t find anywhere to buy one or you wish to make a donation to ‘Blues Roots’ the non-profit limited company that ringfences festival funds, you can do so via the website. You can also subscribe to the monthly email newsletter at www.swanage-blues.org if you wish. Pictures: By kind permission of Paul Dubbelman of DubbleXposure. Top left: Robin Bibi with the Mustangs, top right: Hollie Rogers, bottom left: Connor Selby, bottom right: Open Mic at the Red Lion.

The Purbeck Gazette

Christmas Tree Festival At St George’s Church

fter a complete write off of last years advent season there is a determination to get back to normality, therefore a Christmas tree festival will take place once again at St George’s Church, Langton Matravers from 4th - 6th December 9am till 5pm. This is a chance for people to meet, wander through a truly magical display of individually decorated trees, pause for coffee or tea and maybe even tempted to a slice of cake. There will be moments throughout the weekend when local musical groups will perform, the times of these events will be published on the church website and on the church notice board once finalised. All the proceeds raised at this year’s festival will be donated to Amelia’s Rainbow and Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. For further information go to https://purbeckhillsbenefice.wordpress. com/purbeck-hills-christmas-tree-festival. As part of the celebrations there will be a special informal advent service held at St James’ Church Kingston in the evening of 5th December comprising of music and readings to welcome in the Christmas season.

‘I Can’t’ To ‘I Can!’ Inner Cheerleader Helps Young Children in South West Master Emotions To Navigate Anxiety Pandemic • Children struggling with mental health problems during the pandemic are facing “agonisingly” long waits for treatment, a BBC investigation has found. • Data from half of England’s services found one in five seen in the past year waited over 12 weeks for care. • Half of all mental health conditions present themselves by the time a child reaches 14 but most cases remain undetected and untreated • 10% of year 10 and 11 suffer from anxiety coupled with a lack of confidence • Covid has created an anxiety pandemic amongst all age groups • Free primary resource teaches simple brain hacks can last a lifetime and turn around a child’s negative thinking within a month alf of all mental and emotional wellbeing conditions present themselves by the time a child reaches fourteen but most cases remain undetected and untreated. A research pilot by RTT Method within secondary schools found an estimated 10% of year 10 and 11 suffered from anxiety, often coupled with a lack of confidence. The combination can have a crippling effect on their lives, preventing them from enjoying school, hampering their learning and impacting their social life. That’s why a new resource called ‘I Can’t to I Can’ aims to reduce these numbers by giving primary school children the tools they need to overcome anxiety, build confidence and take control of their emotions. It has been created by RTT in response to the anxiety pandemic Covid has created and features a specific set of mind hacks that can provide immediate help. These skills can help a child throughout life and also significantly lower the numbers who develop adolescent mental and emotional wellbeing issues. ‘I Can’t to I Can’ takes just a week to instil positive new approaches in children aged 7 to 10. Available online, the free resource is based around the RTT concept of installing the inner cheerleader. Everyone is born with an inner cheerleader as, without that driving force encouraging us, babies would never learn. However, children as young as 5 start doubting

themselves and listen to their inner critic instead of their cheerleader which is why the skills taught in ‘I Can’t to I Can’ are so key. Kerin Muddle, lead practitioner for social, emotional and mental health needs at Sandhurst School, one of the schools where RTT therapy has been piloted commented: “RTT made a huge impact on our students who felt more in control and understood how to manage their emotions after a single session. They could recognise negative emotions and were able to see them for what they were and turn them on their head. Providing primary children with RTT resources will make everyone’s lives easier - parents and teachers but especially the children themselves.They will experience immediate benefits and emotional know-how that will stay with them throughout their lives”. The I Can’t to I Can 5-Day Challenge was launched at the end of September, with schools encouraged to participate during the week of 8th November in the lead up to Anti-Bullying Week and World Kindness Day. Schools sign up via https://method.rtt.com/i-cant-to-i-can-challenge/ and the resources were made available on 20th October, giving teachers the opportunity to review and plan over half term.

The Purbeck Gazette

Matron’s Round Our Local Hospitals’ Monthly Column Head to Toe tips for falls prevention. his month Jackie Lidgard and her Community Rehabilitation team have given us some advice regarding falls prevention: We often think of falls as an inevitable part of aging but it is possible to make some simple changes to help prevent or lower the risk of falls, both at home and when out and about. Eye tests are free for everyone over 60. Have regular eye tests and renew your glasses as needed, take extra care when wearing new glasses on steps, kerbs and stairs. Our ears and eyes play an important part in how we interact with our environment and our sense of balance. Ensure your hearing aids work and wear them, and get your eyes checked regularly. Some medicines may increase your risk of falls. Read the information and discuss with a GP or Pharmacist if you have any concerns. As we get older our muscle strength and balance reduce. For tips on staying steady look at: https://www.saga.co.uk/magazine/health-wellbeing/wellbeing/falls-guide Do you need a walking aid? • When shopping for an aid, ensure it’s right for you and is adjusted to your height. Shop around; you don’t need to spend a fortune.

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

Advertise your Health or Beauty Service HERE! See www.purbeckgazette.co.uk for rates

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If you already have an aid, use it; take it with you for uneven paving or steps and kerbs. • Look after your feet, if you have trouble with caring for your own feet use a Podiatrist or ageuk have nail cutting clinics in some local areas at a small cost. • Check slippers fit well and shoes are supportive of your feet. Please don’t buy novelty slippers. • Sit down on a chair or bed to dress and undress. • Use plug in Night Lights and ask for help with changing light bulbs. Good lighting helps prevent falls. • If you have a Personal Alarm, wear it at all times. • Stay warm and wrap up, muscles respond and work better when warm. • Eat and drink at regular times throughout the day. All of these tips may reduce your risk of falls….so why not make a change. Until next time, Matron Annette Sanchez (pictured, right)

The Purbeck Gazette

Sober Curious: What Is It And How To Do It

ccording to research, the UK is the only European country that saw alcohol consumption rise at the start of the pandemic. It is thought that this occurred as the UK was more stressed than other countries as the nation experienced higher death tolls and financial instability. This is in line with previous reports of Britain getting drunk more often than thirty-five other nations and having higher levels of binge drinking than a lot of other countries. However, that being said, there are those who have actually reduced their alcohol intake in the pandemic and are looking for ways to live a healthier lifestyle. Where one in three people increased their alcohol consumption during lockdown, many opted for sobriety and jumped on board the “sober curious” trend. What is sober curious? Often, the hangovers, fuzzy head, and nausea after a night out can make us feel like drinking just isn’t worth it. Not only can drinking affect our bodies but it can even leave us feeling anxious, which has been dubbed “hangxiety”. More people are deciding to stay sober without meeting the criteria for alcohol dependency or disorders – they just prefer to live a sober life out of personal choice or for wellness reasons. If you’re starting to wonder whether becoming teetotal might have a positive impact on your life, you’re not alone. There is a growing number of “sober curious” people cutting alcohol out of their lives. What is encouraging sobriety? It seems that there are more younger people abstaining from alcohol than there are older people. There are several reasons why fewer people are drinking. A prime one may be economic factors, with young people having less time and money to spend on alcohol. Furthermore, we are becoming more aware of the health risks of alcohol and the benefits of looking after ourselves. Particularly after living through a pandemic, many of us are taking our wellbeing more seriously and eliminating things from our lives that may compromise our immune systems and general health. Plus, there are more non-alcoholic drink options available than there once was, helping encourage sobriety without making it difficult or unenjoyable. We’ve all experienced the disappointing and flat soda gun at pubs and bars. Flat cola and limited options make the thought of not drinking alcohol undesirable, but now there are more and more drinks out there to try. Instead of a boring drink, you can choose from exciting flavours like rose lemonade or elderflower. How you can go sober Choosing to go teetotal doesn’t mean you have to give up your social life – far from it. Here is an easy guide to balancing it with your newfound wellness. Firstly, if you want to join your friends at the pub, suggest going somewhere you know has great non-alcoholic or mocktail options. You can buy craft-

Advertise your Health or Beauty Service HERE! See www.purbeckgazette.co.uk for rates style sodas with natural ingredients and unique flavours, or botanical mixers that can be enjoyed on their own. Check out menus online to see what you can sip on while staying social with your friends. Take up a new hobby in something that interests you, like sports or crafts. Here, you might find like-minded individuals who will be up for hanging out without the addition of alcohol. If you’re not drinking for health reasons, you could take up some cooking lessons to make the most of your meals and get all the nutrients and nourishment you need. You’ll find that your weekends will seem longer and that you have more free time, so focusing on yourself and your personal development are great ways to make the most of these newfound sober perks. For some individuals, going sober can be the best option. The sober curious movement could be just the thing you needed for your social life, development, and wellbeing!

DON’T FORGET TO BOOK YOUR ADVERTISING FOR OUR CHRISTMAS EDITION! DECEMBER EDITION DEADLINE: NOON, 10TH NOVEMBER BOOK ONLINE OR EMAIL: ed@purbeckgazette.co.uk , or call 01929 424239

Blast From The Past! This month, A Decade Ago...

The Purbeck Gazette

ack in November 2011 our front cover was getting our readers into the festive spirit, with a wide range of advertising spread throughout the magazine, encouraging readers to start their preparations for Christmas early and, more importantly, reminding everyone of the importance of shopping locally. Our letters pages in this edition contained an interesting letter penned by Mike Hobson, entitled ‘Did you vote for this?’. In his letter, Mike stated: ‘Don’t blame me when the bills come rattling through your letterbox. Don’t blame me when the VAT goes to 20% and tax is put on your dustbins and the council tax increases. Don’t blame us when more Post Offices are closed - we warned you - you asked for it, and you’ve got it’. Prophetic words indeed Mike....! Several other letter writers wrote in to complain in the strongest terms about the local school bus service - which parents were then expected to pay for (despite long ago promises by the then-Dorset County Council that this would never happen). Max Standford described the service: ‘Safety is being compromised as children are forced to cram into a ‘cattle truck’ excuse for a bus service.’ Max had written after parents had already attended a meeting at Purbeck School where they passed on their experiences of school transport difficulties to the council. Max said: ‘In addition to the new charges that have been imposed, the County Council seem to be incapable of organising a comfortable, safe and reliable journey to school for the children of Purbeck.’ David Furmage joined the argument, writing in to say: ‘The recent demand for parents to pay out nearly £400 to send their children to school is a disgrace and to be honest, should never have happened. The sad thing is that parents have succumbed to the demands and paid up. Well, so much for that fighting spirit! So please, no more petitions and moaning if you’re not prepared to stand up and oppose what you think is wrong. The funny thing that makes me laugh is that many of these parents voted for the Conservatives.’ There were many letters on the subject of the Eneco Wind Farm, proposed to be built off the Jurassic Coastline. Readers argued for and against, with Derek Stevens of Langton Matravers writing in to explain why he thought nuclear was the only viable option for future power provision. Derek strongly advocated the idea that a mix of nuclear, offshore wind and gas power generation was what was needed. Derek also mentioned that over 1000 turbines would be needed to replace each individual nuclear reactor. He also suggested that the power amassed (by wind) could possibly be stored by conversion into fuel, such as hydrogen by electrolysis of sea water.

Swanage Carnival committee wrote in to share how proud they were at having been able to give away £26,000 to local good causes, with money raised during the 2011 carnival. Twenty-eight charities and good causes were supported by carnival in 2011, ranging from the Air Ambulance, Youth Cancer Trust, Swanage Semi-Colons and National Coastwatch. Some of the grateful recipients are pictured, above. A representative of carnival said: ‘It was very obvious that without the dedication and support of volunteers, many of the clubs for children, senior citizens and people with disabilities would not stay open. During carnival week, rpresentatives from all the beneficiaries helped with bucket collections, again giving their time for the people they help.’ There has not been a Swanage carnival for a couple of years now due to the Covid-19 pandemic, so spare a thought for those numerous charities and local groups who were dependent on funding such as that granted

by Swanage carnival. Their coffers are probably at an all-time low right now, so consider making a donation to a local group or charity this Christmas. In October 2011, Swanage Conservative Club celebrated one hundred years in their current building, with Richard Drax coming along to join the celebrations at the Club. A whole week of events were held to celebrate the centenary and Gazette Editor, Nico Johnson, went along to have a chat to club members and enjoy a slice of the celebratory cake. (pictured right, with Richard Drax). The good folk of Wareham were still in shock in November 2011 after the professionally created, handcrafted replica Saxon sword was stolen from the roundabout outside Wareham (sword, pictured, right). The sword had been in place in the stones on the northern roundabout until it was stolen during the early hours of Sunday September 25th 2011 - with an angle grinder thought to have been used to literally cut the sword from the stone (evidentally, no true Kings of England were available at the time to simply pull the sword from the stone.....). Despite a public campaign to locate the stolen sword and return it to the stones, a decade later, the sword is still missing and the culprits remain unknown.

The Purbeck Gazette

Spotlight Event Diary

Diary Entries are FREE if your event is FREE. If you charge, then it’s £5 plus VAT per entry, per month. DEADLINE for DEC is noon, 8th Nov 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.

NOVEMBER 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 Methodist Ch. hall, High Street, Sw. All ages/abilities welcome. Steve: 424591, Malcolm: 427695 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. 10.00 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.

Please call prior to attending events listed to ensure they are still on! 11.30 New Adult Latin American & Ballroom Dance Class for beginners. FREE 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 18.30 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, 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

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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 Methodist Ch. hall, High Street, Sw. All ages/abilities welcome. Steve: 424591, Malcolm: 427695 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.

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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!

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!