The New Stour & Avon - Issue 106

What’s inside this issue...

12-13

46-47

42-43

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Cover: Beech avenue, Wimborne

Crematorium’s £11k for hospice

The Macmillan Unit hospice in Christchurch has received a donation of more than £11,000 from a crematorium recycling scheme.

Harbour View Crematorium in Lytchett Minster is owned by Tapper Funeral Service and works with a specialist Dutch company which recycles and repurposes metals collected after its cremations.

Metals from the process are then recycled to produce items such as road signs and even aeroplane parts.

Each year, the crematorium receives a cheque for the value of the materials and donates the money to hospice charities across Dorset and Hampshire. Presenting a cheque for £11,384.74 to ward staff at the Macmillan Unit, Chris Johnson, branch manager of Tapper in Christchurch, said: “The Macmillan Unit has been providing specialist

end-of-life care for people with life-limiting illnesses for many decades, and it is an honour and a privilege for us to be able to support that work.”

The Macmillan Unit is situated in the grounds of Christchurch Hospital and currently supports more than 2,200 people and their families each year.

Neal Williams is trust secretary of Macmillan Caring Locally, the charity

which funds the Macmillan Unit.

He said: “We’re very grateful to Chris and all the team at Harbour View and Tapper Funeral Service.

“The unit, as with many hospices, is facing increasing costs, alongside an increased demand for specialist palliative care. Fundraising and donations are vital to our work. This will be extremely helpful in our support for patients and their families.”

Third boy is charged with raping girl

A third boy has been charged with the rape of a 14-year-old girl in Fordingbridge. The incident occurred on land adjacent to Fordingbridge Recreation Ground on Friday, January 17.

A 13-year-old from Romsey has now been charged with rape. He has been released on conditional bail, to appear at Southampton Youth Court on June 2.

A 14-year-old Fordingbridge boy had already been charged with rape, threats to kill, possession of a knife blade/sharp pointed article in a public place and kidnappping/falsely imprisoning a person with intent to commit a relevant sexual offence.

A second boy, also 14 and from Fordingbridge, had also already been charged with rape, threats to kill and kidnap. Both will face trial at Southampton Crown Court, beginning on Monday, August 11.

None can be named because of their age.

MP visits

Friends of hospital

Mid Dorset and North Poole

MP Vikki Slade visited the Friends of Victoria Hospital in Wimborne to see first-hand the ongoing work and huge investment being made at the cherished community hospital. The Friends are celebrating their 90th anniversary and are investing more than £2.5million to improve services and facilities.

Ms Slade was shown the adjacent land, extending to one acre and formerly Wimborne

Town Football Club, which was purchased by the Friends and gifted to the hospital to allow future expansion.

In the interim the friends are paying for the land to be developed into a sustainable area to increase parking provision and accessibility.

A tour of the hospital encompassed all areas and allowed the MP to meet with patients and staff and to see how investment by the Friends is making a difference.

Thurs 8th May

Adam Henson’s Cotswold Farm Park........£45 (coach & entrance)

Sat 10th May

RHS Malvern Spring Festival...................£63 (coach & entrance)

Tues 13th May

West Somerset Railway...............................£59 (coach & train)

Weds 14th May

Spirit of Water Flower Festival, Salisbury Cathedral..£33 (coach & entrance)

Pupils’ party for Peggy

Children at Broadstone Middle School sang a special Happy Birthday to the most popular member of the school - a pooch called Peggy.

The four-year-old helps the youngsters in many ways, especially as a source of comfort when they are upset. She loves the children who take her for walks and also help her with her training. And as an athletic canine she will be well suited to the school in September when it introduces its new ‘Sports Stream’.

Dawn Wilks, executive headteacher - who owns Peggy - said: “She’s been a part of the school since she was four months old.

“Of course the children love her and they really benefit from having her aroundand she is incredibly well behaved.

“When the children are upset she sits next to them on the sofa and lets them hug her.

“She comes in every day and the place wouldn’t be the same without her.

“She is currently working on Level 4 of the Institute of Modern Dog Training agility course.

“This will help her keep up with the children next year when we introduce our new ‘Sports Stream’ for students.

“She was a bit bewildered when the school sang Happy Birthday but had a wonderful day.”

The school is part of the Castleman Academy Trust.

Fundraisers on trac for £1k

Sat 17th May

Devon County Show, Exeter..............£45 (coach & entrance)

Tues 20th May

Weald & Downland Museum...................£38 (coach & entrance)

Weds 21st May

Dorchester Market & Weymouth.............................................£16 Fri 16th May

Thurs 22nd May

Moulin Rouge @ Piccadilly Theatre, London....£95 (coach & ticket)

Fri 23rd May

Chelsea Flower Show..........................£112 (coach & entrance)

Sat 24th May

Wells on Market Day...................................................................£24

Sun 25th May

Exeter...............................................................................................£26

Easter Sunday’s weather forecast sounded promising and the best day of the Bank Holiday weekend, writes John Maiden This was just as well really as it was the arranged day of the Easter Bunny Tractor run hosted by Phill Bascombe and family of Mannington, near Wimborne.

The annual event has now been run for more than 20 years and is held in aid of the Friends of Victoria Hospital in Wimborne.

More than 50 predominantly vintage vehicles took part in a great route with two offhighway sections. The route took in many East and North Dorset hamlets and villages where smiling

faces and waves greeted the long, passing convoy. There was a welcome lunch stop after three hours of driving at the village of Witchampton where the local club catered for all drivers and passengers’ needs. From there it was just a fourmile return drive to the start where tea, coffee and homemade cakes awaited. It was then announced that more than £1,000 had been raised for the charity by tickets and donations. A great time was had by all.

Rough way to raise £2k

Students slept rough in their school to raise funds for the YMCA.

Sixth formers at Queen Elizabeth’s School in Wimborne spent a night sleeping rough in shelters in their school.

The 35 youngsters made the shelters themselves, ready for a night away from the comfort of their own beds. The students were taking part in the YMCA’s Sleep Easy initiative which aims to challenge young people to leave their comfy bed for a night, to raise awareness and funds for less fortunate youngsters

facing homelessness in the community.

The QE students have now raised more than £2,000 for the YMCA.

The sixth formers were supported and encouraged by two local businesses. They were treated to pizza on the night from Dominos Pizzas and O’Hara Funerals in Wimborne judged the shelters, giving Amazon vouchers to the best.

Thomas Neill, headteacher at Queen Elizabeth’s School, said: “We’re very proud of our sixth formers for taking part in our QE Sleep Easy 2025 event.”

Platinum Award-Winning Care 2022

We have been awarded this much sought after accolade for our work with Gold Standards Framework

“Your staff are exemplary in every way. They care for my every need, showing genuine kindness and always go above and beyond the call of duty. The excellent chef caters for my special diet - all cooked to perfection. I couldn’t ask for anything more.” Current resident

Mayor’s service of thanksgiving

Wimborne mayor Jeff Hart is inviting the community to his Civic Thanksgiving Service on Sunday, May 11, at 3.00pm in the Minster.

This special service is a time of reflection, gratitude, and celebration, marking the end of the mayor’s civic year and giving thanks for the continued support of the Wimborne community. Members of the public, local organisations, and dignitaries are all welcome to attend.

The service will feature music from the Jubilate choir, readings from Wimborne Community Theatre, and prayers, and aims to bring together residents and community groups in a shared spirit of unity and appreciation.

Cllr Hart said: “It’s been a privilege to serve the people of Wimborne Minster. This service is a chance to say thank you to everyone who has contributed to our community over the past year.”

Dignitaries praise Civic Day

The Mayor of Wimborne, Jeff Hart, hosted his Civic Day, welcoming the High Sheriff and mayors from across Dorset for a memorable day of culture, history, and community.

The day began with a warm welcome and an intriguing Town Trail, offering guests a chance to appreciate the charm and heritage of Wimborne Minster. Attendees were then treated to a series of live acting scenes performed by Millstream disabled theatre group, bringing local stories and characters to life.

A highlight of the afternoon included a visit to the Museum of East Dorset, where guests

enjoyed a tour and a locally-sourced lunch. The event concluded with an exclusive local choir performance from ‘Jubilate’ and a tour of Wimborne Minster itself, including the renowned Chained Library - one of the few remaining examples of its kind in the country.

Cllr Hart said: “It was a real pleasure to host fellow civic leaders and showcase the rich history, culture, and community spirit of Wimborne Minster.

“I’m grateful to everyone who contributed to making the day such a success; as one mayor said: ‘One of the best Civic Days ever’ - we did Wimborne proud.”

What is happening to our wonderful town?

What is happening in Wimborne re the Tappers building?

What a mess. Why is it taking so long to do anything to it?

I was led to believe there were going to be flats above and business premises below. Is this still the case?

Secondly, what a state the underpass going to the

Allendale centre car park is in! It really doesn’t look good for visitors. And, thirdly, what’s happening to the former M&S building?

Come on Wimborne, get your act together... it’s such a lovely town, let’s keep it that way.

Lyn Lovell Wimborne

Tennis talk served up at meeting

Shirley Critchley of Canford and Merley WI entertained members and friends with her humorous presentation on the history of Wimbledon. In 2012, Shirley was champion of Great Britain (in her age group) and fourth in the world in 2013! A number of rackets were displayed, ranging from 100 years old up to the latest

craze of pickle-ball bat. A strawberry and cream tea served ‘Wimbledon style’ was enjoyed by all. The next speaker meeting will be on June 11, at 7.30pm with Sarah Delves, entitled Lipstick, Powder And Paint. For further details please contact me on 07780 705702.

Hazel Clarke Canford

Ladies’ group has a lot of latte

The Wimborne & Ferndown Ladies Who Latte networking group held at Kings Park Care Home in Ferndown is flourishing. The group recently moved to Kings Park, offering a luxury space and welcoming setting with refreshments included. We bring together likeminded women in business for support, collaboration and inspiration. Meetings are held on the

fourth Tuesday of each month, providing a fun, relaxed, and encouraging space for women to share experiences, collaborate, and build their businesses.

If you are interested in joining us, please contact me at jane.shanahan@ barchester.com or visit facebook.com/groups/ wimborneladieswholatte.

Jane Shanahan Wimborne

MP’s article was shameful

In response to Christopher Chope’s article in the Political round up of the New Stour & Avon Magazine of April 18, I feel it’s only correct to point out that the ‘socialist controls’ of the Zero Emissions Vehicle Mandate, or ‘the Government’s arbitrary restrictions... to sell vehicles with internal combustion engines’ as he puts it and feels so strongly against, was actually a policy put in place by his own Conservative government which came in to law in January 2024. He also goes on to be concerned by the foreign ownership of British Steel. It’s worth noting that British Steel was bought by a Chinese company in March 2020, also when Chope’s Conservative government was in power. But who sold British Steel to the Chinese? Well - would you

believe it - none other than the Insolvency Service of the very same Conservative government. Perhaps Mr Chope should have been a little more concerned with these items when he was a member of the ruling party, rather than waiting until he is in opposition to give the impression these are problems created by the current government. Perhaps Mr Chope was too preoccupied with preventing Bills to tighten laws against upskirting, delaying a Bill to increase protection against female genital mutilation or blocking a group of female MPs from using the House of Commons to commemorate the centenary of the suffragette movement. Shameful. Rob Bartlett Wimborne

Learn all about literary legend

The Friends of Wimborne Library are delighted to invite you to a talk by Maureen Stiller, secretary of the Jane Austen Society, on Saturday, May 31, at 2pm in Wimborne Library. Find out more about Austen’s life and novels; you won’t need to know the books

already to enjoy this talk! Please book your place by registering in person in the library or by email to wimbornelibrary@ dorsetcouncil.gov.uk Tickets are free to FoWL members, £5 for guests. Rosalind Jensen Chairman FoWL

Reflections at springtime concert

The Fayrewood Singers will be performing Springtime Reflections on Saturday, May 10, at Verwood Methodist Church at 3pm. Tickets are £6 each at the door and there will be songs old and new from the choir, and an audience singalong.

Refreshments will be available and proceeds from the concert will go to the Macmillan Caring Locally charity. Do come along and enjoy a musical afternoon!

Linda Pearson Verwood

Fashion show raises £1,400

The Wimborne Fashion Show in the Old Library at Merley House has raised £1,400 for Rotarysupported charities.

Organised by Wimborne Rotary and with clothes presented by debnique boutique of Poole, the evening was expertly compared by Debbie Perkins.

With models showing casual and formal wear on the catwalk, the evening was judged to be a success, with organiser Rotarian Joy Dennett saying: “I

was delighted that the evening proved to be a sell-out and would particularly thank Debbie at debnique boutique and Ingrid Sumner for their work in selling tickets.

She added: “The proceeds raised will go to charities which Wimborne Rotary supports, and the generosity of our audience is very much appreciated”.

Pictured are some of the models showing the clothes to an appreciative audience.

International gesture from young players

A youth football team from Wimborne has made a heartwarming gesture that’s touched lives far beyond the pitch.

The 2023/24 under-16s squad from Wimborne Town Football Club have donated a full set of football kits to a school for disabled children in Kenya, sharing not only clothing, but also hope, joy, and a sense of connection through the beautiful game.

The donation was made to a special needs school in rural Kenya, where access to sports equipment is limited.

The Nolando CBM School for the Physically Disabled, is one of the largest projects that the charity Meal a Day sponsors and is successfully transforming the lives of the children in the school.

The brightly-coloured kits, proudly bearing the Wimborne club badge, were met with beaming smiles and open arms from the children, who were overjoyed to receive them.

They have since used them to compete in the Kenyan National Para Games

which were held in Mombasa. Coaches and parents from the U16s team helped organise the donation, hoping to make a meaningful impact.

A team spokesman said: “It’s about more than football.

“It’s about making a difference in someone else’s life, even in a small way.”

“Photos and videos of the children in

their new kits have made their way back to Wimborne, sparking pride and inspiration throughout the local community.

“This act of kindness highlights the power of sport to unite people across borders, cultures, and abilitiesreminding us all that generosity and compassion can be as powerful as any goal scored on the pitch.”

Joining the nation to celebrate VE Day

Starting on the bank holiday, May 5, Dorset will join the nation in celebrating the 80th anniversaries of Victory in Europe (VE) Day and Victory over Japan (VJ) Day.

Street parties, picnics, and barbecues will be held across the country echoing the jubilant celebrations from 80 years ago. Bank holiday Monday is all about bringing communities together. Dorset Council want to encourage communities, businesses and schools to host their own events, including street

parties, exhibitions, and educational activities in the spirit of the 1945 celebrations.

Cllr Ryan Hope, portfolio holder for customer, culture and community engagement at Dorset Council said: “The 80th anniversaries of VE Day give us a chance to come together and honour the sacrifices made by many during the war.

“Whether by attending a local event, hosting a street party, or sharing stories from the past, we encourage everyone in

Dorset to take part in commemorations and celebrations.”

Cllr Stella Jones MBE, chairman of Dorset Council, will host VE Day Beacon Lighting service at Durlston Castle in Swanage on May 8 at 9.30 pm. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Town and parish councils across Dorset will also be organising their own events, so check your local information sites to see what’s happening near you. You can also check out events on the national website

Visit museum’s Wimborne At War exhibition

To mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, Wimborne’s award-winning Museum of East Dorset has created a new temporary exhibition ‘Wimborne at War’.

The exhibition captures the spirit of resilience and determination of the nation during the Second World War. Discover more about war efforts like Dig For Victory and Make Do And Mend as people were encouraged to grow more of their own food and repair clothing with supplies still rationed long after the war was over.

The displays also include the military history of the museum’s founder Hilda Coles who served in the Women’s Royal Naval Service. Hilda was posted to Scotland and assigned to working in motor transport. Her service was recognised with commendations and mentions in dispatches.

There are some remarkable photographs of the Air Raid Precautions (ARP) unit and Wimborne’s Home Guard.

The photographs also tell the story of how Wimborne adopted its own naval warship, HMS Challenger, in 1941, marked by a parade through the town. War memorabilia like the Defence Medal,

awarded for non-operational service, war propaganda literature, and gas masks including a Mickey Mouse mask for babies and toddlers can also be viewed.

Museum director Francesca Hollow said: “Our new exhibition is a tribute to the triumph and sacrifice of so many men and women from our town who played a crucial role in the war effort. “It’s a fitting

way for us to honour this special VE Day anniversary and we hope people will come to the museum to learn and take time to reflect.”

The temporary exhibition is situated in the Voices Gallery in the museum and can be viewed until late August. Admission to the exhibition is free with normal museum entry.

Children up to the age of four are eligible for free admissionto the museum.

Children five to 16 years are £5.50 and adults £12 each.

Family admission tickets are also available. And with one admission price you get 12 month’s free entry .

Photograph: Wimborne Air Raid Precautions wardens taking part in the parade for National Savings Warship Week at Eastbrook. It is led by Mr Tapper who was head Air Raid Warden, and he is flanked by Mr Stewart and Mr Greaves, the Urban District and Rural District ARP officers.

Above is the Wimborne Garrison Company Home Guard (6th Battalion Dorset Home Guard, G Company) standing down parade.

Pictures: MUSEUM OF EAST DORSET

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Service and duty right to the very end

I begin by expressing my heartfelt condolences for the passing of Pope Francis. At the weekend, the largest security operation in the Vatican’s history took place, allowing for a farewell reflective of the reverence of Pope Francis, the work he undertook and the legacy he will leave behind.

The sheer size, complexity and precision of the funeral’s organisation, delivered the safety and attendance of 400,000 people.

Alongside the great and good; royalty, politicos and celebrities alike, 2,000 ordinary members of the public were invited into St Peter’s Square to mourn. Pope Francis’s guest list had the members of the public who came to pay their respects at its very heart; his last wishes having made provisions for ‘Joe Public’, as well as dignitaries and representation from all religions, faiths and beliefs.

His tomb is purposely located outside of the Basilica, in the church that he attended and loved.

I will not forget the way in which Pope Francis made his very first visit as Pope to Jesuit refugees on Lampedusa.

I thought to myself: ‘well, this is a bit different!’ and he surely was!

The first Pope from my ancestral continent of South America too; will the new Pope be of African or Asian ancestry perhaps?

We still live in a world where people are being displaced through wars, poverty, persecution, discrimination and environmental disaster - these problems are global and need a global approach to tackle them - Pope Francis championed this approach all his life.

His commitment to championing migrants, human and LGBTQ+ rights, equality and poverty was

groundbreaking and continued throughout his papalism; he was an inspiration to so many. High-ranking individuals wanted to rub shoulders at his funeral.

Does that suggest they want to be associated with his legacy of helping those facing inequality

and discrimination and those in need?

When I read that Pope Francis had passed away on what would have been our late, great, Queen Elizabeth II’s 99th birthday - just hours after an official meeting with US Vice-President Vance - I could not help but draw parallels with our late Queen, who passed away hours after greeting her 15th UK prime minister, Liz Truss. In my election literature last year, I made it clear I would not take paid second jobs. I cannot fathom how an MP can have a second job - being an MP is already two full-time jobs!

I imagine both Pope Francis and the Queen were advised to postpone those final meetings and rest on those days.

I wager both would have ignored the advice and choose to serve through focused duty, to the very end.

I salute them both. Rest in peace and eternal glory.

BCP Council’s negative, obstructive approach

Many congratulations to Ringwood-based Churchill Retirement Living on winning approval for the redevelopment of the former gasworks site in Christchurch.

They now have permission to create a multi-generational community with 177 muchneeded homes as well as commercial space and other amenities.

BCP Council received the formal planning application in September 2023; about a year later it had failed to even make a decision.

The planning inspector who decided the appeal was highly critical of BCP Council and its negative and obstructive approach. Indeed, the inspector’s comments raise questions as to the adequacy of BCP Council’s planning department. The council conceded that there is a maximum of 2.1 years’ supply of deliverable housing land and a shortfall of 10,397 dwellings against a five-year supply. The

ill-fated draft BCP Local Plan had not been withdrawn, despite advice in February that it should be, for non-compliance with legal duties.

Most significant of all was the finding that the council’s restrictive interpretation of future flood risk could not be justified. The council’s false argument that the risk of flooding from 2120 came as a knockout blow was ridiculed.

The inspector said that the council’s inflexible interpretation of flood risk would prevent the site being developable at all. Although the council said that it was committed to a funding strategy for flood defence maintenance and improvement, none had been produced and no financial contribution had even been requested.

If, as the council argued, the site was defined as future Flood Zone 3B, it would prevent its regeneration, leaving the important town-centre brown field site vacant and a blight on

its surroundings for decades to come.

Let us hope that development on this site can now proceed quickly without any further obstacles being placed in its path by BCP Council.

n Prior to this year’s Grand National, at the suggestion of the Betting and Gaming Council, I

visited the popular Coral betting shop in Somerford. It was reassuring to be able to see at first-hand all the measures that are in place to protect customers and to guard against money laundering while enabling us all to have a flutter. My plea to the Government is to recognise that current regulations are working well and that further restrictions on retail betting shops are both unnecessary and undesirable. The exciting part was deciding on which horse to place the charity bet, which was kindly donated.

‘Meetingofthewaters’ struck a chord for me because of its name association with Twynham, the settlement between the two rivers, Stour and Avon.

I am pleased to report that Meetingofthewaters came fifth and thereby secured a payout for my chosen charity, the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation.

Many thanks to all involved.

Dorset Labour CANDICE

JOHNSON-COLE

VE Day reminds us to learn from the past

This month, we mark 80 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe - one of the most pivotal moments in modern history. We remember not only those who served on the frontlines, but also those who kept the home front alive: The firefighters battling in our towns and cities, the codebreakers at Bletchley Park, the nurses and volunteers caring for the injured, the factory workers making weapons and ammunition, the farmers who kept the nation fed, and the families who opened their homes to evacuated children. It was a collective national effort. The Second World War touched every family, but it also brought new ideas into British life - many of which remain part of our cultural identity today. Those who came here to support the war effort or, displaced from the conflict, chose to stay here, weaved their traditions into the fabric of British society. Their contributions enriched our culture, and we owe them

a lasting debt of gratitude. The generation that led us through the war also laid the foundations of the Britain we know today.

The creation of the National Health Service, the expansion of universal education, and strides towards greater equality and social mobility. Women, who had proven themselves capable of every role during the war years, demanded and deserved an equal place in society.

Today, some people suggest that modern generations do not share the values or commitment of the past. But I believe this view does not do justice to the young people of today. Recently, I had the privilege of joining a Scouts’ St George’s Day Parade - complete with a dragon! - and I was reminded of the commitment of our young people.

Having brought my children up within the Cadets and Scout movement I see first-hand the sense of service, community spirit, and leadership that thrives

Liberal Democrat

Mid-Dorset & North Poole

VIKKI SLADE MP

among the next generation. In school visits across MidDorset and North Poole, I meet young people who are informed, thoughtful, and determined to make a difference.

They ask challenging questions about the world they are inheriting. They are engaged because they care deeply about the future.

tThis is the first generation in

more than a century whose parents or grandparents have not experienced war first-hand, but they are growing up in a world marked by new and complex challenges: A fragile planet, a fractured society, a broken education system, and rising global tensions.

As political and civic leaders, along with teachers, business leaders, parents, and grandparents, we must help them to develop the skills, resilience, and confidence they need to navigate our uncertain world. We must create opportunities, listen to their ideas, and believe in their ability to lead.

Just as past generations rose to meet the challenges of their time, so we must trust and enable them to shape a better, stronger future.

As we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War and honour the past, we must also learn from it - taking its lessons forward as we work to build a brighter, safer, and more inclusive future for all.

‘Strong relationship’ celebrated at town hall

The Mayor of Wimborne, Jeff Hart, has formally exchanged commemorative plaques with Major Will Higgins, Officer Commanding 280 Signal Squadron, in a special presentation held at the town hall chamber.

This symbolic exchange marks the continued celebrations following 280 (NATO) Signal Squadron being granted the Freedom of the Town of Wimborne Minster in March - one of the highest civic honours a town can bestow. The Freedom honour recognises the Squadron’s exemplary service and longstanding connection with the local community.

The ceremony served to further cement the bond between the town and the military unit.

Councillor Hart presented the Squadron with a specially-designed town plaque, while Major Higgins offered a regimental plaque in return - both acts reflecting mutual respect and appreciation.

Speaking at the event, Cllr Hart said: “It was an honour to once again welcome Major Higgins to Wimborne.

“The exchange of plaques is a lasting symbol of the strong relationship between the town and 280 Signal Squadron.

“We’re proud to recognise their service and celebrate their ongoing ties to our community.”

Major Higgins expressed his gratitude, saying: “Receiving the Freedom of Wimborne Minster is a great privilege for all of us at 280 Signal Squadron.

“We value the support and friendship of

the town and look forward to continuing this important relationship.”

The Freedom of the Town entitles 280 (NATO) Signal Squadron to march through Wimborne Minster with ‘bayonets fixed, colours flying, and drums beating’ - a ceremonial right steeped in tradition and respect.

Pictured above are, from left, WO2 Ryan Roberts CSM 280 (NATO) Signal Squadron, Major Will Higgins OC 280 (NATO) Signal Squadron, Cllr Hart.

Ferndown school receives boost from business

Children at Ferndown Middle School who make a difference will receive gift vouchers thanks to a local business.

AE Jolliffe & Son funeral directors provided five Amazon credits, which the school will hand out at the end of the term.

The school has a number of values that it has embedded in its ethos.

Children who demonstrate those values or make other achievements will be chosen by a committee of teachers.

Debbie Brown, who manages Jolliffe’s said: “As a business we’re always trying to find ways to help our community and this is a great example.

“The school asked if we could provide some Amazon

Food & Drink

vouchers which they can reward to children who have made a difference through work, behaviour or in demonstrating school values.

“It was also a good relationship to develop for future projects such as the children from the school

joining us to sing in our multi-purpose community ceremony room when we hold an afternoon tea for local care home residents.

“We also have a good relationship with the upper school and attend their careers fair each year.”

AE Jolliffe & Son is part of Douch Family Funeral Directors which has seven branches in Dorset.

Rich Bebbington from the school said: “We’re so happy to be building relationships with our community and working with businesses to support each other.

“We’ve been delighted by the kindness and support shown to our school which have included donations of tickets from Jay Miller’s Circus and the free use of a coach from Laguna Travel to transport our pupils there and back.”

Pictured above are Rich Bebbington from Ferndown Middle School with Debbie Brown and Helen Dean from AE Jolliffe & Son.

Cooking... with Martha

Butternut squash and goats cheese salad

Martin sometimes surprises me and comes up with some really nice recipes. He claims they are from the Guardian, because he thinks that is a good quality paper.

I have said that I am quite happy for him to choose recipes as long as he is prepared to cook them!

We are still trying to have lighter meals, to keep the weight off, but they have to be filling as well. Butternut squash and chick peas both feel a bit more substantial than lettuce and cucumber, and there is always the option of adding some chicken or other meat.

So, he found this recipe and we gave it a go.

I must confess, that when I saw the dressing, I thought he had been reading a potions book! The colour was a bit off-putting but the taste was good and it added to the flavours of the salad. Another tip is to make sure that the butternut squash is cooked until it is soft. There’s nothing worse than trying to eat a salad with hard butternut squash.

The whole meal was lovely and, as

you can see, we had some pitta bread with it. The trouble with these healthy meals, is that Martin always gets hungry afterwards, so I have to think of a healthy dessert.

At the moment, our favourite is fruit salad without the cream but with some low fat crème freche or yoghurt. There must be some point in our lives when we don’t have to watch the calories!!

Ingredients:

1 large squash/ pumpkin, cut into chunky wedges

2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

2 tbsp honey

1⁄2 tsp chilli flakes

1 tsp coriander seeds

Legg

1 x 400g tin chickpeas, drained

150g goat’s cheese, thickly sliced

For the green dressing

Handful mint

Handful coriander

2 tsp red wine vinegar

1⁄2 tsp sugar

1 green chilli, thinly sliced 70ml extra-virgin olive oil

Method:

Heat the oven to 200C (180C fan)/gas 6. Toss the squash with the olive oil, honey, chilli flakes, coriander seeds and a good scrunch of sea salt.

Add the chickpeas and roast for 25-30 minutes or until the squash is tender and charred at the edges.

For the dressing, blitz together the mint, coriander, vinegar, sugar, chilli and oil with a good pinch of salt until you have a smooth, bright green dressing. Taste for seasoning.

Place the goat’s cheese slices on a grillproof baking sheet and grill under a high heat for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.

Arrange the chickpeas and squash on a plate with the goat’s cheese and dressing drizzled over. Finish with a little mint and some extra chilli if you like.

Hanford Prep’s new, flexible day girl offer – find out more!

STOP PRESS! Hanford Prep is accepting girls for day places from September 2025 with a new flexible and more accessible offer for families with girls in Years 3 – 5.

‘Hanford Core’ is designed to give parents more choice when it comes to finding the right fit for their daughter.

‘Hanford Core’ involves a shorter prep school day for pupils, but still involves the vast majority of the many exciting activities and fantastic opportunities a Hanford education offers; academic, creative but with a solid focus on life skills.

Hanford Prep is perhaps best known for its ponies, and most girls learn to ride and they also enjoy spending time at the stables. However there is so much more to a Hanford education: Art and Handwork (textiles) taught separately by specialist teachers in our stunning Art Barn as well as Dance lessons, Drama, Gymnastics and

Music lessons all taught in small classes by specialist teachers. The sport on offer for the girls is extensive, from swimming in our outdoor pool to tennis, netball, hockey, lacrosse, cross country and more. Importantly, girls benefit from small class sizes and the individualised learning that this affords; our scholarship success year on year is testament to the winning Hanford formula.

Hanford Core is already proving a

popular choice for local families looking for the best possible start for their daughters’ education; it brings a prep school education into reach for more parents as school fees have been adjusted to take the shorter day into account.

Come and find out more: OPEN MORNING, Saturday 17 May.

Please email admissions@hanfordschool. co.uk or call 01258 920847 to reserve your place.

Saturday 17 May 9.30am - Midday

Speed king’s car at auction

A 1946 Armstrong Siddeley Hurricane, bought new by land and water world speed record holder Sir Malcolm Campbell MBE, is entered into the Charterhouse specialist classic & vintage car auction on Thursday, June 26.

Richard Bromell of Charterhouse said: “Painted in his standard Blue Bird colour to match all his racing cars and boats, he took delivery on July 18, 1946. “He used the Hurricane as his regular road car and it was probably the last car he owned as he died on New Year’s Eve 1948.”

Sir Malcolm Campbell first broke the land speed record in

1924 at 146.16mph. He went on to break nine land speed records between 1924 and 1935 and then set the water speed record four times.

The Campbell Armstrong Siddelely Hurricane was sold in 1990 for £20 to just its fourth owner who stored it in a damp garage where it decayed.

The car was then rescued and restored to its former glory and is estimated to sell for £10,000-£15,000 at the Charterhouse auction.

n Richard Bromell and the Charterhouse Team can be contacted for specialist advice and valuations at The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, 01935 812277 or via rb@charterhouseauction.com.

Lions club boost for Ukraine

Members of Ringwood & Fordingbridge Lions Club will be travelling to the New Forest For Ukraine (NFFU) warehouse in Lymington to help package boxes of aid destined for war torn Ukraine on Saturday, May 10.

There remains an urgent need for clothing, footwear, clean blankets, duvets and pillows, sleeping bags, portable gas cookers, toiletries, non perishable food, generators, medical

equipment and supplies. Tucked away into every delivery of aid are boxes of toys for children living through war and where the cuddling of a soft toy is a special comforting distraction.

If you are free on the morning and would like to help out, or if you would like to donate items to send to Ukraine, contact Ringwood & Fordingbridge Lions Club via randflions.org.uk or by telephone on 0345 8335819.

Enjoy stunts galore at spectacular show

Medieval and modern horsepower are coming together this summer to bring two spectacular acts to the Gillingham and Shaftesbury Show on August 13 and 14. Making its first ever appearance in Dorset, one of the country’s most thrilling theatrical horse show spectaculars will delight visitors with mounted medieval knights battling against each other.

The Knights of Albion have rapidly established

themselves as one of the UK’s premier jousting teams. With breathtaking displays, original storylines, movie-quality armour paired with vibrant costumes, it promises to be an unforgettable experience. Tom Armstrong-Frost from Outlaw Entertainments, who runs the spectacular in between working in TV and film as a stunt rider, said: “Our performances feature a talented ensemble of professional stunt riders, jousters, acrobats,

musicians, and performers, all accompanied by our stunning trick-trained horses.”

And modern horsepower will take centre stage as the Tigers Motorcycle Display Team roar into the arena. Featuring children from five to 16 years old, this extraordinary squad of stunt riders is like no other. Watch these young daredevils jump through fire, negotiate tricky chicanes at top-speed and thrill with some incredible formation riding.

Visitors to the show can also enjoy livestock parades, agricultural and countryside exhibits, equestrian events, vintage machinery and cars, charming steam engines, live bands, a funfair and many other rural displays. One-day admission for adults is £19, family tickets (two adults and two children) £43.00. Children under five years of age go free. Two-day tickets are also available. Visit gillinghamand shaftesburyshow.co.uk.

Secure Your Legacy with Confidence

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Whether you require a Will to formalise your wishes, a Lasting Power of Attorney to safeguard your affairs in the event of incapacity, or a Trust to provide greater control over your estate, I offer expert guidance tailored to your circumstances.

I appreciate that these discussions can be delicate, which is why I take a professional yet personable approach, meeting you in the comfort of your own home at a time that suits you. With clear advice and meticulous attention to detail, I help ensure your affairs are in order with confidence and clarity.

To arrange a consultation, call me, Pete Dunn, on 01980 881 212.

Paws, people, and plenty of mud at dash

The Muddy Dog Dash 2025 once again proved to be a fantastic success, bringing together dog lovers, families, and fitness enthusiasts for a day of muddy, tail-wagging fun - all in support of Lewis-Manning Hospice Care. Held at Upton Country Park, the event saw hundreds of participants and their four-legged friends take on an exhilarating obstacle course, raising funds and awareness for hospice care services in the local community.

More than 350 participants and 300 dogs tackled the muddy course, braving obstacles, splashes, and plenty of fun! A team from Lewis-Manning, supported by more than 50 volunteers and Upton Country Park operations, ensured seamless event logistics, including car park management and safety.

Spectators enjoyed a lively atmosphere, with various stalls and merchandise stands enhancing the experience. The event raised funds to cover more than 980 hours of hospice care to support local patients and families impacted by life-limiting illnesses. One service Lewis-Manning offer the local community is support from their breathlessness team, who help patients

in clinics and at home to manage this difficult symptom, often a result from lung cancer or COPD.

Louise Hopley, specialist respiratory physiotherapist said: “Exercise and having fun is key to our wellbeing, whatever stage of life we’re at.

“We focus on enabling people with lifelimiting illness.

“We run regular exercise sessions (online and in-person) for our patients to build strength and confidence and I’m thrilled that we host an event

Are you on target for the

Country Challenge, the fundraiser in aid of Dorset charity Diverse Abilities, has returned for its sixth year at Purbeck Shooting School near Wareham. Get a team together and join us on Friday, June 20, for a tournament that involves five different activities: Clay pigeon shooting, target rifles, archery, fly fishing and catapults.

Purbeck Shooting School was established in 1955 and has been voted as the Best Shooting Ground in the UK. Demi Tarrant, events executive at Diverse Abilities, said: “This is a great way to get all the team together to try something new. Over the past five years we have seen teams learn new skills and get to know each other as a team. “It doesn’t matter if you haven’t tried any of the activities before, it’s a great way to learn and have fun, whilst raising money for a good cause.”

Teams of four can enter from £550, which includes a bacon sandwich and lunch, and each activity will come with expert tuition to maximise chances of winning.

Money raised by the teams will help

like this to support living well in our community.

“When we move more, we feel better, and our health improves - add some laughter and you have the perfect recipe for wellness!”

Following the success of this event, the next Muddy Dog Dash is at Avon Heath Country Park on Sunday, September 28. Book now at lewis-manning.org. uk/muddy-dog-dash and use code GETMUDDY10 for 10% off before May 31.

Country Challenge?

to provide vital support at the charity including:

Days out for children who attend our school holidays activities

Much-needed equipment at Langside School Activities for adults who attend the Beehive - the charity’s activity and day centre

The charity is also looking for sponsors

for the Challenge, where businesses will receive promotion on the day and in pre and post events communications including printed material, social media and press releases.

Find out more by emailing events@ diverseabilities.org.uk

Sign your team up for the Country Challenge at diverseabilities.org.uk/ daevents/country-challenge.

Dieting can still be fun and delicious!

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Looking for a fun and delicious meal that aligns with your diet plan? Whether you’re following Step 2 or higher, we’ve got the perfect recipe for you! This Crispy Chicken & Waffles dish combines crispy, juicy chicken, fluffy waffles, and nutrient-packed veggies for a satisfying meal that doesn’t feel like dieting. Best of all? It’s super easy to make! Here’s how you can whip up this mouthwatering, diet-approved meal:

Ingredients

1 chicken breast

1 pack of Pop Squares (any flavour)

1 pack of Maple Pancake Mix (from The 1:1 Diet)

1 egg

1-cal spray (for cooking)

80g of your preferred starch allowance 80g cherry tomatoes (or your choice of veggies)

Mushrooms (optional, any variety)

All-purpose seasoning & pepper (to taste)

Method

Prepare the Chicken:

Crush the Pop Squares into fine crumbs. (You can use any flavour you like!)

“The

Beat the egg in a bowl to coat the chicken breast.

Dip the chicken into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated.

Coat the chicken in the crushed Pop Squares for that crispy, crunchy texture. Place the chicken on parchment paper to lock in moisture, then put it in the air fryer at 200C for 14 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Make the Waffles:

Follow the instructions on the Maple Syrup Pancake Mix packet to prepare the waffle batter.

Spray the waffle maker with 1-cal spray to avoid sticking, then pour in the batter. Cook until golden brown and crispy.

Prepare the Veggies:

Use your 80g veg allowance (we used cherry tomatoes and mushrooms, but you can get creative here!).

Spray the veggies with 1-cal spray, then lightly season with all-purpose seasoning and pepper.

Grill for 5-7 minutes until they’re soft and slightly charred.

Serve & Enjoy!

Plate your crispy chicken, fluffy waffles, and grilled veggies.

Adapt portion sizes according to your diet plan to make sure you stay on track. Dig in and enjoy this satisfying, Step 2-friendly meal!

n Nicki Edwards

The Cambridge Lady 07904 331589

Health & Wellbeing

The benefits of chiropractic for runners

Running is one of the most popular forms of exercise worldwide, and many of us watched people of all ages and abilities run in the London marathon at the weekend. Running is amazing - it’s accessible, effective, and energising. But whether you’re training for such a marathon or enjoying a few weekly jogs, the repetitive impact of running can take a toll on your body.

This is where chiropractic care and sports therapy can play a crucial role in supporting performance, preventing injury, and aiding recovery. Chiropractic care focuses on the alignment of the spine and joints. For runners, this means better posture, improved biomechanics, and reduced pressure on the lower back, hips, knees, and ankles.

When the spine is properly aligned, nerve communication improves, muscles function more efficiently, and the whole body moves with greater ease.

Small imbalances - often unnoticed - can cause compensations elsewhere, leading to common running issues like shin splints, IT band syndrome, or plantar fasciitis.

Regular chiropractic adjustments can help correct these imbalances before they become painful or limit performance.

Sports therapy complements chiropractic care by addressing muscle function, flexibility, and soft tissue health.

Sports therapists use techniques such as deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, stretching, and rehabilitation exercises to keep muscles supple and strong. For runners, this is key to preventing overuse injuries and promoting quicker recovery after training or races.

Another major benefit is enhanced mobility and range of motion. Tight hips, hamstrings, or calves can

CHIROPRACTIC & MASSAGE THERAPY TREATMENTS

We strive to give every patient the absolute best chiropractic and massage care , as well as providing outstanding customer service.

We are a motivated team passionate about getting you better and enabling you to live a pain free life, getting you the best version for you !

Conditions we can treat:

• Migraines

• Lower Back Pain

• Joint Pain

• Frozen Shoulder

• Tennis Elbow

• Neck Ache

• Sports Therapy

restrict stride length and increase the risk of strain.

By releasing tension and improving joint mobility, both chiropractic and sports therapy help runners move more freely and efficiently.

These therapies also support the mental aspect of running.

Chronic discomfort or recurring injuries can be frustrating and demotivating. A regular treatment plan tailored to your running goals can keep you pain-free, focused, and consistent with your training.

In summary, chiropractic and sports therapy offer a proactive, holistic approach to running health.

Rather than waiting for injury to strike, runners who integrate these therapies into their routine often find they recover faster, run with better form, and experience fewer setbacks.

Whether you’re chasing a new PB or just want to enjoy your runs more comfortably, these therapies can be an essential part of your toolkit.

To book in for a consultation, contact Wimborne Wellness Centre on 01202 604707 or email us at admin@ wimbornewellnesscentre.co.uk.

Mayor’s welcome for hospice charity shop

A brand-new Julia’s House shop has received a warm welcome from the community with the Mayor of Bournemouth George Farquhar and his consort, greyhound Billy, joined by the town crier, David Craner, officially opening the store with a ribbon cutting.

The new Westbourne shop in Poole Road offers a range of good quality pre-loved items from women’s and men’s clothing and shoes to homeware, jewellery and books, all at affordable prices and supporting Julia’s House Children’s Hospice.

The mayor took the opportunity to award Ebony Robinson, a Julia’s House ambassador, with the ‘Mayor’s Award.’ which gives special recognition to individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the community, particularly

through voluntary work.

Natasha Burkin, head of retail at Julia’s House, said,

“It’s fantastic to be able to open our 15th shop right in the heart of the Westbourne community.

“We’re so excited to welcome customers through the doors and show them what Julia’s House has to offer.

“In fact, we had a customer

Water boost for disabled!

Moors Manor care home in St Leonards has presented Ellingham Inclusive Waterski and Wakeboard with a cheque for £1,250 to purchase an adapted seating ski to provide waterskiing experiences for people with disabilities. The grant was awarded by Barchester’s Charitable Foundation, which helps older people and adults with a disability or mental health problems across England, Scotland and Wales by offering grants to help people connect or re-connect with others in their community.

Volunteer Adrian Yates said

“With having this adapted ski we are now able to offer the opportunity to waterski for those individuals with a disability.

“We now hold a couple of sessions each month for people to come along too”.

Gemma Chalkley, general manager at Moors Manor said: “We’re always keen to show as much support as we can to local charities.

“We’re now going to see which residents at the home would like to enjoy this activity!”

visit a few days ago, before our official shop signage had been installed, and she commented that she thought the shop was a new boutique store rather than a charity shop and was really surprised and impressed by the layout and presentation! “While the Westbourne shop will offer a treasure trove of pre-loved items to buy, it

will specialise in jewellery and in particular children’s clothing to provide families with the opportunity to purchase affordable kids’ clothes.”

Each of Julia’s House charity shops is thoughtfully and expertly fitted out with reused and repurposed materials including the cash desk, flooring and display units, providing customers with a unique and welcoming feel, with regularly refreshed and beautiful displays each time they shop.

Julia’s House Westbourne shop is open Monday to Saturday, 9.30am to 4.30pm. Donations and volunteers are very welcome.

For more informatiion, enquire in store, visit juliashouse.org/shop or email westbourne.shop@ juliashouse.org.

David Allen BSc DO

The British School of Osteopathy

Manipulative Therapist, Exercise & Dietary Advice Treating the Whole Person

Headaches | Jaw pain

Neck Pain | Whiplash Injuries

Frozen Shoulder | Trapped Nerve

Shoulder Blade Pain

Rib/Chest Pains | Disc Problems

Postural Conditions | Golfers Elbow

Tennis Elbow | Low Back Pain

Repetitive Strain Injury

Pelvis/Sacro-iliac Joint Conditions

Pregnancy Pains | Groin Pain

Hand/Wrist Pain | Hip Pain

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Sciatica (Nerve Injuries)

Osteoarthritis | Pulled Muscles

Housemaids Knee (Bursitis)

Trauma/Post-operative rehabilitation

Tendinitis | Sports Injuries

Shin Splints | Strained Ligaments

Ankle Injuries | Foot/Toe Pain

Plantar Fascitis

£44 per session

Cash or cheque

Chapel Cottage, Church Street, Shapwick, Dorset, DT11 9LA

Easter eggstravaganza for residents

Care home residents in Sandbanks enjoyed an Easter egg hunt and crafts with children from a local holiday club.

Residents at Marjorie House care home welcomed the children from Kidscape’s Poole location at Livingstone Primary School, which provides a breakfast, afterschool and holiday club for four to 11-year-olds. The children and residents sat down to paint plant pots together to decorate the residents’ rooms to mark World Art Day, before heading into the care home’s garden to take part in an easter hunt, complete with an Easter bunny.

n And the residents were thrilled to see a host of vintage cars roll into the car park for a special display. They welcomed the Dorset Austin Seven Club to display their vehicles, dating back to the 1920s and 1930s, as part of the home’s spring fayre event. They were joined by several other vintage cars and military vehicles owned by local residents.

Myrna, who lives at Marjorie House, said: “It was a very good event. It was nostalgic for people like me.”

Pam said: “It was lovely. It took me right back. It’s amazing that these cars are still around.”

Richard Brown, a member of Dorset Austin Seven

Joyce, who lives at Marjorie House, said: “It was marvellous. I think it was wonderful and they all did very well. The children created a happy atmosphere.”

Cyril said: “They all did a good job to paint the plant pots. It was nice to have them here.”

Myrna said: “It was wonderful for us and good for the children too. It was a long time since we all had our children, so it was nice to be around kids again.”

Earlier this year, residents from Marjorie House were invited to an afternoon tea hosted by the children at Kidscape to mark the Christmas season.

Dolly Senior, who runs Kidscape, said: “The children had a wonderful time connecting with the residents while chatting about their Easter plans.

“It’s really important for the children to experience intergenerational relationships and share stories about their common interests.

“It was a joy to see the children show kindness and have fun with the Marjorie

Club, said: “It was a dream to support the Marjorie House team with this event.

“It’s a lovely care home with an incredible view,

which served as the perfect backdrop for our cars.

“We’ve already been asked to come back, and our members are more than

House residents.”

Georgie Powell, home manager at Marjorie House, said: “Our residents had a lovely time with the children from Kidscape who helped them to celebrate this special time of year.

“It was so nice to see the children laughing, dancing and getting creative with our residents.

“We’re already looking forward to welcoming them again.”

happy to as they had a fantastic time.”

The event at the care home on Crichel Mount Road also featured a range of stalls selling gifts, skincare, toys and crafts, as well as a barbecue which residents, their families and visitors enjoyed in the sunshine.

Georgie Powell, home manager, said: “It was lovely to see the residents’ faces light up as they saw the beautiful vintage cars arrive in the home’s car park.

“The event was the perfect way for the residents to swap memories with each other and the host of visitors that joined us, enabling them to continue to feel part of their local community.”

Supermarket giant to expand in county

Budget supermarket giant Lidl is aiming to open a number of new stores in Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire.

New plans from the retailer has detailed scores of towns and cities where it plans to open stores in the coming months.

In Dorset, it has picked out a number of potential sites for new stores including in Lymington, Poole, Corfe Mullen, Swanage, Wareham and Wimborne.

In Wiltshire, it is aiming to open a new store in west Salisbury, while in Somerset, Lidl wants branches in Bath, Cheddar, Keynsham, Nailsea, Weston, and Shepton Mallet. The plans come as the German-based chain highlighted 43 communities where it hopes to continue expanding in the coming months as part of a

£500million investment.

Lidl now wants to hear from landowners and agents who may have sites suitable for the new supermarkets. It is keen to hear about sites with easy access and strong pedestrian or traffic flow, suitable for stores ranging from 18,000 to 26,500sq ft in size.

Richard Taylor, chief real estate officer at Lidl GB, said:

“This level of investment is a clear sign of our ambition.

“As we enter our fourth decade in Great Britain and hurtle towards a thousand stores, there are still so many parts of the country crying out for convenient access to a Lidl store.

“That’s why we welcome the measures proposed in the Government’s Planning and Infrastructure Bill -

they recognise the urgent need to remove barriers to development and support the kind of growth we at Lidl are working towards.

“Our latest site requirements brochure reinforces the scale of our ambition for the future.

“New Lidl stores mean new jobs, new opportunities for British suppliers, and continued investment into local economies.

“We’re proud to be one of the fastest-growing supermarkets in the country, and with this investment, we’re taking another big step in our journey.”

Dorset towns where Lidl wants to open in the next year: Wimborne Corfe Mullen Poole Swanage Wareham.

Home & Garden

National Garden Scheme - Dorset gardens open

Compiled by Cathy Dalton

22 AVON AVENUE, Avon Castle, BH24 2BH

Wonderful Japanese themed water garden featuring granite sculptures, ponds, waterfalls, azaleas, cloud topiary. Teas

Open: Sun 4 May (12-5) Adm: £5

ANNALAL’S GALLERY,

Christchurch BH23 1DN. Enchanting 180 yr old cottage, home of two Royal Academy artists. 32ft x 12½ft garden on 3 patio levels.

Unusual studio and garden room.

Open: Sun 4, Sun 25 May (2-4) Adm: £3.50, chd free

WESTERN GARDENS, Branksome Park BH13 7AN

‘This secluded and magical 1acre garden captures the spirit of warmer climes and begs for repeated visits’ (Gardening Which?). Plants/home-made jams/chutneys for sale.

Home made teas

Open: Sun 4 May (2-5) Adm: £7, chd free

10 RYAN CLOSE, Ferndown BH22 9TP

Small urban plantswoman’s garden filled with a remarkable selection of mostly vibrant perennials. Teas

Open: Sun 11 May (2-5) Adm £3.50, chd free

THE SECRET GARDEN AT SERLES HOUSE, Wimborne BH21 1EN. Alan Titchmarsh described this amusingly creative garden as ‘one of the best 10 private gardens in Britain’.

Ingenious use of unusual plants. Teas

Opening: Sun 11, Sun 18 May (1-4.30) Adm: £5, Chd free

OAKDALE LIBRARY

GARDENS, Poole BH15 3EF

Award winning gardens comprising the ‘Bookerie’

Reading and Rhyme time garden where wildlife is welcomed. Plant sales on NGS open days.

Open: Wed 14 May (2-5) Adm by donation

MYRTLE COTTAGE, Blandford Forum DT11 0ES

Delightful cottage garden, pond, wildflower meadow, large collection of chilli plants. Teas

Open: Sat 17, Sun 18 May (106) Adm: £5, chd free

22 LANCASTER DRIVE, Broadstone BH18 9EL

Natural woodland garden. Mature oaks and natural spring make for a magical setting. New gravel garden with water features. Teas

Open: Sat 17, Sun 18 May (115) Adm £5, chd £2.50

Home & Garden

for charity - May 2025

STADDLESTONES (pictured), Witchampton BH21 5DE & WHITE HOUSE, Witchampton BH21 5AU

Combined opening of two lovely gardens: delightful cottage garden at Staddlestones and contrasting Mediterranean style garden at White House. Sculptures. Teas at White House

Combined opening: Sun 25, Mon 26 May (11.30-4.30)

Combined Adm: £10, chd free

DEANS COURT,

Wimborne Minster BH21 1EE. 13 acres of peaceful, partly wild gardens in ancient monastic setting with mature specimen trees, Saxon fish pond, herb garden, orchard and apiary beside River Allen close to town centre. Teas.

Open: Wed 28 May (11-4) Adm: £8, chd free

Special ticketed events: CANFORD SCHOOL ARBORETUM, Canford Magna, BH21 3AD

Rare opportunity for Talk & Guided Tour of this nationally recognised arboretum with Dr Andrew Powell, Master of Trees, Canford School. Light refreshments

Open: Sat 3 May (10-1) Adm £25 Pre booking essential @ www.ngs.org.uk

MUSEUM OF EAST DORSET,

Wimborne Minster BH21 1HR

Evening garden lecture focussing on the award-winning Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens presented by David Pearce, Head Gardener. Light refreshments

Open: Fri 9 May (6-8.30) Adm £15, chd free. Pre-booking essential @ www.ngs.org.uk

n Entries may be subject to change - for latest information please check www.ngs.org.uk. Tickets can be purchased on the day or in advance via www.ngs. org.uk and make perfect gifts. for family & friends

Fencing, Decking, Patios, Landscaping and Garden Buildings

We offer a complete garden package from design to installation. No need to bring in multiple contractors, we can do everything from removing shrubbery, installing patios, resin, gravel areas, fencing, timber & composite decking, garden kitchens and garden buildings from a simple shed to a garden room. We have everything you will need for a beautiful and secure garden.

Call 01202 985192 or Text 07520 666876

info@amazinglandscaping.co.uk www.amazinglandscaping.co.uk

Based at: Basket & Blooms Nursery, 392 Christchurch Road, West Parley, BH22 8SW

Home & Garden

Club meeting is well

A few days after the successful Wimborne Gardening Club Spring Show, members met for the April monthly meeting when they were entertained by Sarah Le Clef, pictured right, a former professional flower arranger who gave a talk and practical advice on arranging flowers, writes Anthoiny Oliver.

Sarah arranged three displays of different styles which were then raffled to raise

funds for the Gardening Club.

The May meeting which will be held on Monday, May 12, (as the first Monday is a Bank Holiday) at the usual time of 7.30pm in St Catherine’s Church Hall, Rodways Corner, Wimborne. The speaker will be Mary van Coller who is the author of Downstream Dorset, River Tales And Local History, a colourful journey of discovery through the

beautiful county of Dorset, including fascinating anecdotes, the meaning of place names and historical events.

This is sure to inspire the listeners to go and discover parts of Dorset they may not have seen before. There will also be a plant swop so members are encouraged to bring along plants to take part. A week after the May meeting is the club’s coach outing to Exbury Gardens. There are still seats left. Visit wimbornegardening club.co.uk for details.

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Farming & Environment

A day at the farm

with Sharon Boden

Sharon is a member of staff at High Mead Farm in Longham. High Mead is a working farm run to promote the benefits of engaging with animals, soil and nature. We create purposeful roles for our co-farmers, young people and adults, to help create a sense of well-being and self-worth many have never experienced before. Due to safeguarding, the farm shop is the only area currently open to the public

This week on the farm it feels like spring has truly arrived - and with it, a fresh wave of animal mischief.

The warmer weather has brought everyone to life. Our goats launched a successful (and entirely unauthorised) mission into the raspberry patch, while the alpacas decided to sample our broccoli.

Not to be outdone, Teddy the horse has taken a nibble at, well, just about everything! The woodwork team have spent much of the week reinforcing fences.

With a lot of our fencing being a bit old and worse for wear, it’s a constant job keeping one step ahead of our

more adventurous residents. If there are any local fencers reading this who’d like to lend a hand, we’d love to hear from you!

Still, it’s all part of life on a busy working farm, and we like to think they’re just keeping us on our toes.

Rest assured though - despite the animals’ best effortsthere’s still plenty left to keep the farm shop shelves full! Out in the fields, our lambs are continuing to thrive — full of bounce, bleats, and mischief.

They’re checked twice daily to make sure they haven’t wriggled through a gap in the fence or gone exploring down a badger hole.

When they’re not causing chaos, they can be seen staging what we like to call the ‘Lamb National’ - zooming around the field in big group races.

We’re well into the season of fresh flavours, and the shop is stocked with vibrant spring veg, homemade chutneys, local honey, and our own pork.

Whether you’re planning a picnic, a roast, or just a treat for the weekend, there’s something for everyone - and plenty of friendly faces to help.

We’ve got lots more planned as

we head into May, including our much-loved Spring Fayre on Saturday, May 17. Expect animals, stalls, games, food, music and more - we’d love to see you there!

Farming & Environment

Baroness is welcomed as society president

One of Dorset’s longest-running agricultural societies has welcomed a new president.

British farmer and political campaigner the Right Honourable Baroness Minette Batters becomes the 86th president of the Gillingham and Shaftesbury Agricultural Society.

Also known as Baroness Batters of Downton, she is a farmer, managing the 300-acre Barford Farm Park in Downton.

As a young girl she grew up on a tenant farm and always wanted to become a farmer. She was the first female president of the National Farmers Union and in July 2024 she was granted a life peerage and became a crossbench member of the House of Lords.

In her role as president of the NFU, Baroness Batters represented the farming community at a time of great change with the impact of Brexit and the Covid pandemic.

She is a strong advocate for balanced land use and food production policies in the UK, campaigning for clear food production targets and Governmentbacked strategies to optimise agriculture.

She was recently appointed as honorary president of the Farming Community Network, a charity that supports farmers through challenges and crises. Taking up her new role at Gillingham and Shaftesbury Agricultural Society, which was merged into its current form in 1860, to support farmers in the region.

She said: “I hope I can continue the legacy of those that have been president before.

“They’ve all done a really amazing job.”

She added that in her new role she was most of all looking forward to

She added: “It’s my local show so I’m just feeling very privileged to be involved.

“In this challenging economic climate, our county shows offer great value for money and a wonderful day out for the whole family.

“The future is about being relevant to the customer, people who have grown up with the show and attracting newcomers.”

The first show was held in 1930 and for the past 31 years has been held at Motcombe’s Turnpike Showground. Along with thousands of visitors, the Show welcomes around society members, more than 1,300 livestock entries, 550 trade stands and spectacular entertainment in two rings with a focus on educating audiences about agriculture, heritage and contemporary farming.

01258 472314

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Make a date to see the Calendar Girls

Based on the true story of WI members who posed nude for a calendar to raise money for charity, Calendar Girls written by Tim Firth, is a comedy-drama about friendship, loss and courage that will make you laugh and cry.

When Annie’s husband John dies of leukaemia, she and best friend Chris resolve to raise money for a new settee in the local hospital waiting room.

They manage to persuade four fellow WI members to pose nude with them for an ‘alternative’ calendar, with a little help from hospital porter and amateur photographer Lawrence. But when media interest in the women’s charitable venture grows, the Calendar Girls find themselves exposed in ways they’d never expected, revealing more than they’d ever planned.

Directed by Sali Pike, this amateur production of Calendar Girls is being performed by Wimborne Drama Productions at the Tivoli Theatre from

Although it is not currently a legal requirement, please consider wearing a face covering to protect yourself and others when visiting the Tivoli.

Thursday to Saturday, May 22 to 24. Amongst the cast are Lesley James, Julie Sissons, Heather Birchenough, Leah Jane, Bethan Morris and Tracey Nicholls.

For further information and to book

New gardening club opening in Poole ROOTED IN FRIENDSHIP

First Tuesday of every month, 2pm - 3.30pm The Salvation Army, 2 New Orchard, Poole, BH15 1LY. Entrance via car park. To share ideas about gardening, swap seeds and plants, etc. Free parking. £2 including coffee, tea and cake.

tickets telephone the Tivoli box office on 01202 885566 or visit tivoliwimborne.co.uk.

Pictured are Tracey Nicholls, Heather Birchenough, Bethan Morris, Lesley James, Julie Sissons and Leah Jane.

Perspectives from art society

The forthcoming Creative Perspectives exhibition at Upton Country Park is the culmination of work by members of Poole & East Dorset Art Society, resulting from a project led by art patron and renowned local artist Helen Talbot.

Focusing on composition and perspective, they have explored various approaches to interpreting images in different ways and investigated subject

matter for further development. Explore the different interpretations that members of the society have produced in this new exhibition.

Dates: May 16 - June 2, (10am - 4.30pm)

The Gallery Upstairs, Upton Country Park, Poole Lift for wheelchair access Free entry to exhibition, car park charge

More info: pedas.org.uk.

Hawkers Farm Stour Provost SP8 5LZ

Friday 16th & Saturday 17th May

Youngsters starring in National Theatre festival

NT Connections, the National Theatre’s annual youth theatre festival, saw 126 local young people performing five new plays in three days at Lighthouse Poole. Every year, Connections commissions new plays for young people, bringing together some of the UK’s most exciting writers and next generation of theatre-makers.

As one of 33 partner theatres across the UK taking part, Lighthouse hosted two performances a day featuring young actors aged 13-19 from Dorset Drama Academy, Poole High School, Dorset School of Acting, Oasis Youth Theatre, Swanage School and Mayflower Youth Theatre.

Although it is not currently a legal requirement, please consider wearing a face covering to protect yourself and others when visiting the Tivoli.

Charles Shenton of Lighthouse said: “This was a great opportunity for young people to engage with the National Theatre in the 30th anniversary year of the Connections festival and to see their work on stage in a professional venue.

“For Lighthouse, it’s important to connect with national institutions as a forum for new writing and play its part in nurturing the next generation of theatre professionals.”

This year the National Theatre worked with more than 250 youth theatre companies performing plays that offered an engaging and diverse range of material to perform, read and study.

Artist collective to showcase new work

An artists’ collective known as the Wider Circle is to showcase its new art at a free exhibition open to the public at the Gallery Upstairs, Upton Country Park, from June 5 to 16.

The work is inspired by world-recognised Bournemouth poet James Sale’s, pictured right, latest book of poetry, DoorWay, a modern interpretation of Dante’s Heaven. DoorWay, is the third in the series of poetry books from his collection the English Cantos.

The collective is made up of James, multimedia artist Angela Perrett, calligraphy artist Judith Warbey, mixed media artist Linda E Sale, digital artist Mark Burden, and composer Antonino Chiaramonte. Each has created work inspired by DoorWay and includes new work not exhibited before. DoorWay, is the third in the Dorset-Founded Artists Collective to Showcase New Art at Upton House. More information is available at widercircleexhibition.com.

www.theregent.co.uk

(15) Fri 12 Jan: 12:30, 16:00 | Mon 15 Jan: 19:30 | Tue 16 Jan: 12:30, 16:00 | Thu 18 Jan: 13:30, 19:30 Sir Ridley Scott directs Oscar-winner Joaquin Phoenix in this stunning historical epic that begs to be experienced on the big screen. WHAT HAPPENS LATER (15) Fri 12 Jan: 19:30 | Sun 14 Jan: 19:30 |

14:00 (S) |

19:30 | Thu 18

17:00 snowed in, in-transit, at an airport overnight. Starring Meg Ryan. WONKA (PG) Sun 14 Jan: 13:30, 16:30 | Sun 21 Jan: 17:00

BOLAN’S SHOES (15) Mon 15 Jan: 10:30 (Silver Screen) FERRARI (15)

Town’s Family Fest expands as prices shrink

It’s more for less at this year’s Family FestWimborne’s annual outdoor festival for families of all ages.

This award-winning festival returns to the Meadows field just over Julian’s Bridge from Friday to Sunday, May 30 to June 1. This year sees live music, entertainment and a variety of attractions carrying on for the first time

Although

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until 9pm on the Friday and Saturday night.

Organisers have also decided to reduce the entrance fee with children’s tickets £5 and adults £8.

Sited on 12-acres of working farmland, Family Fest offers on-site camping as well as shuttle bus services, courtesy of Burrows Coaches, from Wimborne Square.

There’s also a special bus service from Blandford. People are encouraged to use public transport, cycle or walk to the festival as part of Family Fest’s commitment to a sustainable eco-event.

rehabilitation through horticulture. Over the past four years it has donated £4,000 to the nursery in Bournemouth.

Scan the QR code to see what’s on this summer! explore the enchanting market town of wimborne

www.wimborne.info

Headliners this year include the UK’s leading Rudimental tribute band Rudimentalists on Friday and 80s and 90s cover sensation Yazadi on Saturday.

There are thrilling BMX bike shows and traditional fun with Punch & Judy and magic shows plus festival shopping with food, gifts and artisan products from across Dorset on offer with a special focus on supporting the county’s small business traders.

He said: “Family Fest has a strong community focus and we always want to give back in some way. It’s a great sense of achievement to transform a farmer’s field into a festival extravaganza with the main aim to bring families together for fun.”

Wimborne BID has supported Family Fest since it set up in Wimborne four years ago.

Rob Batson, who has experience in events management, runs the festival voluntarily along with just four other people in his creative team and 15 ‘invaluable’ volunteers during the festival weekend. The festival supports local charity the Cherry Tree Nursery which offers

Rob added: “We are ever grateful to Wimborne BID for offering promotional support as well as helping us to connect effectively with the array of businesses in the town who we love to work with so they too can benefit from the influx of visitors to Wimborne.”

Family Fest hopes to attract more than 3,000 visitors during the festival weekend. Visit www.ffdorset.co.uk for more information.

Picture: FAMILY FEST

Celebrating joys of ceramics

An exciting new ceramics exhibition, 5 Joys Of Clay, is set to showcase the work of five accomplished ceramicistsElaine King, David Pointer, Dan Sandham, Julie Massie, and Jane Staniland.

The unique exhibition celebrates the versatility, texture, and expressive potential of clay, bringing together diverse styles and techniques that highlight the material’s endless possibilities.

Taking place at Walford Mill, Wimborne from May 21 to June 1, 5 Joys Of Clay invites visitors to explore the tactile and visual beauty of contemporary ceramics. Each artist brings a distinct perspective, creating an engaging dialogue between tradition and innovation, nature and abstraction, form and function.

Elaine King’s delicate and intricately-textured forms draw inspiration from organic patterns. David Pointer’s sculptural works explore the elemental forces of erosion and time, blending

rugged textures with smooth, fluid contours.

Dan Sandham, a finalist on Channel 4’s the Great Pottery Throw Down, brings a dynamic approach to thrown forms.

Julie Massie’s work explores the the colours and fragility of the Dorset Coastline with her unique porcelain wall art that stimulate the senses, especially touch, sight and sound.

Jane Staniland’s figurative ceramics tell stories of our time through finely crafted forms. Curated to celebrate clay’s intrinsic joys, the exhibition will feature a stunning collection of pieces ranging from functional ware to abstract sculpture. Visitors will have the opportunity

Although it is not currently a legal requirement,

HIGH ST, CHRISTCHURCH (01202) 499199 www.theregent.co.uk

Getting creative at garden centre

NAPOLEON (15)

Fri 12 Jan: 12:30, 16:00 | Mon 15 Jan: 19:30 | Tue 16 Jan: 12:30, 16:00 | Thu 18 Jan: 13:30, 19:30

Sir Ridley Scott directs Oscar-winner Joaquin Phoenix in this stunning historical epic that begs to be experienced on the big screen.

WHAT HAPPENS LATER (15) Fri 12 Jan: 19:30 | Sun 14 Jan: 19:30 | Mon 15 Jan: 14:00 (S) | Tue 16 Jan: 19:30 | Thu 18 Jan: 17:00

snowed in, in-transit, at an airport overnight. Starring Meg Ryan. WONKA (PG) Sun 14 Jan: 13:30, 16:30 | Sun 21 Jan: 17:00

BOLAN’S SHOES (15) Mon 15 Jan: 10:30 (Silver Screen)

FERRARI (15) Sat 20 Jan: 14:00, 17:00 | Sun 21 Jan: 14:00, 20:00 | Mon 22 Jan: 20:00 | Tue

to engage with the artists through live demonstrations and workshops, gaining insight into their creative processes and inspirations.

5 Joys Of Clay promises to be a must-see event for collectors, ceramic enthusiasts, and art lovers alike.

The Creatives are excited to be returning to the Garden Room at Cranborne Garden Centre next month with new collections of their work, writes Jan Hawker. The exhibition will run from Saturday, May 24, until Wednesday, May 28. The work will include paintings, textile art, stained glass, ceramics and jewellery.

There is ample parking, disabled access and a cafe on site. Visit thecreativesgallery. wordpress.com for more information.

20:00 KEN RUSSELL’S GOTHIC (18) Sat 20 Jan: 20:30 [35mm] THE MIRACLE CLUB (12A) Mon 22 Jan: 10:30 (Silver Screen)

ANYONE BUT YOU (15) Mon 22 Jan: 14:30, 17:30 | Tue 23 Jan: 14:30, 17:30 HIGHCLIFFE CHARITY PLAYERS PRESENT: ROBIN HOOD (LIVE) Fri 26 Jan: 19:30 Sat 27 Jan: 11:00, 14:00, 18:00

Opening hours:10am-5pm, Wednesday to Saturday, 11am4pm Sunday.

For more information, visit walfordmillcrafts.co.uk.

adverts@stourandavon.net

Visit museum to celebrate traditional spring

The award-winning Museum of East Dorset is bringing history to life with a month-long celebration of traditional springtime festivities.

Visitors of all ages are invited to step back in time and experience the magic

of May with interactive activities, festive dances and hands-on crafts inspired by seasonal customs. There’s even a special opportunity to have a go at Morris dancing! Families can enjoy free children’s discovery trails, exploring the museum while

CELEBRATE THE MERRY MONTH OF MAY AT WIMBORNE’S AWARD-WINNING MUSEUM

Merry May family trail

Dance around our maypole Hunt for flowers in our beautiful garden

Try out some quirky May traditions

Make your own royal flower crown

Become the May king or queen

Dressing up and craft fun

please consider wearing a face covering to protect yourself and others when visiting the Tivoli.

Plus FOLK DANCING WALK-IN WORKSHOP ON WEDNESDAY 28 MAY TH FREE ANNUAL PASS WITH EVERY ADMISSION TICKET

Museum of East Dorset 23-29 High Street, Wimborne Minster, Dorset, BH21 1HR Telephone: 01202 882533 Website: museumofeastdorset.co.uk

uncovering fun historical facts and seasonal surprises. Guests can try their hand at Maypole dancing in the beautiful museum garden, weaving colourful ribbons as they take part in this community tradition from the past.

HIGH ST, CHRISTCHURCH (01202) 499199 www.theregent.co.uk

NAPOLEON (15)

Fri 12 Jan: 12:30, 16:00 | Mon 15 Jan: 19:30 | Tue 16 Jan: 12:30, 16:00 | Thu 18 Jan: 13:30, 19:30

Sir Ridley Scott directs Oscar-winner Joaquin Phoenix in this stunning historical epic that begs to be experienced on the big screen.

WHAT HAPPENS LATER (15)

Fri 12 Jan: 19:30 | Sun 14 Jan: 19:30 | Mon 15 Jan: 14:00 (S) | Tue 16 Jan: 19:30 | Thu 18 Jan: 17:00

snowed in, in-transit, at an airport overnight. Starring Meg Ryan. WONKA (PG) Sun 14 Jan: 13:30, 16:30 | Sun 21 Jan: 17:00

A special folk dancing workshop will bring energy to the festivities, with skilled dancers showcasing rhythmic steps and striking costumes. Members of Anonymous Morris from Poole and Southern Star from Corfe Mullen will be at the museum during the afternoon on Wednesday, May 28, to run two beginners’ workshops.

BOLAN’S SHOES (15) Mon 15 Jan: 10:30 (Silver Screen)

with flowers and greenery, to celebrate the arrival of spring. There will also be dressing up fun and opportunities to try out May traditions firsthand, from learning about historical customs, going on a flower hunt, and engaging in festive springtime rituals including the art of balancing spoons on your head!

FERRARI (15)

Sat 20 Jan: 14:00, 17:00 | Sun 21 Jan: 14:00, 20:00 | Mon 22 Jan: 20:00 | Tue 23 Jan: 20:00

KEN RUSSELL’S GOTHIC (18) Sat 20 Jan: 20:30 [35mm]

THE MIRACLE CLUB (12A) Mon 22 Jan: 10:30 (Silver Screen)

For creative spirits, there will be free craft activities where children can make May crowns, decorated

ANYONE BUT YOU (15) Mon 22 Jan: 14:30, 17:30 | Tue 23 Jan: 14:30, 17:30

Programming officer Aidan Hill said: “We’re very excited about bringing such a lively mix of hands-on activities to the museum for all to enjoy. We’ve created the perfect place to embrace the spirit of May and discover the rich heritage behind these seasonal celebrations.”

For more information and a full schedule of events, visit museumofeastdorset.co.uk.

HIGHCLIFFE CHARITY PLAYERS PRESENT: ROBIN HOOD (LIVE) Fri 26 Jan: 19:30 Sat 27 Jan: 11:00, 14:00, 18:00 Sun 28 Jan: 14:00, 18:00

All aboard for society party

The Wimborne District Society of Model Engineers will be celebrating their 50th anniversary on Sunday and Monday, May 25 and 26, writes Ray Gardner Over the past 50 years members have been involved with all things model engineering, mainly building and constructing a miniature railway.

event, which is free for admission and free rides on the trains. Sunday, being the day of the party, will see a gathering of 50 miniature steam engines of most types, especially locomotives running on the 5-inch gauge railway.

Everyone is invited to the

Everyone is invited to join in the celebration from 11.00tam on both days at Cobhams Sports and Social club Merley Park Lane BH21 3DA.

Sign up for anniversary TV10

The picturesque Dorset village of Tarrant Monkton and the Langton Arms pub are getting ready to welcome all runners and spectators to the annual Tarrant Valley 10, also known as the TV10, on June 1 at 10.30am.

It will be followed by a onemile children’s race.

This is the 40th anniversary since the inaugural race way back in 1985!

To celebrate this, every runner will receive a special 40th anniversary commemorative medal, including all the runners in the children’s race.

We are also introducing additional prize categories, including first male over 70, first female over 65, and first male and female under 20.

It will be a great morning out with plenty for everyone to do. In addition to the races there will be a barbecue, ice-creams, teas, coffees and a raffle.

Rogue Racer will be chip timing the adult’s 10km race through the stunning Cranborne Chase countryside, as well as the children’s run.

Online printable certificates will be available to download for all runners, and there will be lots of photos.

We are so fortunate to be

supported by our fabulous village pub, the Langton Arms, so why not book in for a delicious lunch afterwards too?

This year our profits will go to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance charity and Horatio’s Garden.

The Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance service flew almost 3,000 missions in the last year. Horatio’s Garden is a wonderful charity that creates garden sanctuaries attached to NHS Spinal Injury Centres providing rest and respite for people with spinal injuries.

So please sign up and come along to this great day.

The starter whistle sounds at 10.30am in Tarrant Monkton, DT11 8RX.

For further details please visit our website TarrantValley10.org where you can also follow the link to enter.

Runners who prebook online save at least £5 compared to the on-the-day price!

Fiona Forbes Race director

Richard selected as rowing coach

Congratulations go to Bryanston head of rowing Richard Boulton who has been selected as lead coach for the GB Rowing Team U19 Boys’ and Girls’ Sculling disciplines for the 2025 season. Richard will lead on the development and crew formation disciplines during training days, assessments, trials, and camps. He will work closely with the coaches at the spring assessments and for the remainder of the season, will develop crews for the U19 World Championships in Lithuania, and the Coupe de la Jeunesse in Austria.

He said: “This is an incredible opportunity for me, given my previous GB experience coaching at an international level and will be of great benefit to the Bryanston School Boat Club.”

Hants star Chris visits cricket society

Hampshire Cricketer Chris Wood was a recent speaker at the Dorset Cricket Society, writes Paul Pearson

Born in 1990 in Basingstoke, Chris played cricket and football from the age of 10 in the Alton and Liphook areas. He joined Hampshire Cricket Academy in 2006 at the same time as James Vince, James Tomlinson and Liam Dawson were recruited.

His talent was spotted early on and he represented England at under-19, 20 and 21s.

He signed for Hampshire in 2010 with his first game against Oxford University where he impressed with bowling figures of 5 for 54.

Later that year Chris gained

the first of his five one-day trophies in his 15-year sojourn with Hampshire when the county beat Somerset to win the Friends Provident T20 Trophy. Unusually Chris is a righthanded batter but a left-handed bowler.

Other than his five trophy wins his bowling highlight is holding a national record of the most wickets for the same county in T20 Cricket, currently standing on 214 dismissals.

Chris has also taken ‘five fers’ in all three formats of the game and was the first Hampshire bowler to take 100 wickets in all three competitions. As a batter undoubtedly his highlight was in 2012 with an undefeated 105 in a last

wicket stand of 168 with David Balcombe against Leicestershire.

During his Hampshire career, because of issues with his knee, Chris has only played 43 first-class games and to manage

his fitness once again for 2025 he has only signed a white ball contract for Hampshire but will play in the Hundred for Birmingham Bears having previously played for London Spirit. Chris said he would have loved to have played for Southern Brave but he was never asked.

Chis was deservedly granted a benefit last season and donated the proceeds to the Professional Cricket Trust, giving something back for the help through his career that the PCT had given to him.

Now 34 he hopes to play cricket for Hampshire for at least another two/three years depending on his fitness and his knee holding out.

Banging day for Fishers

For a great day’s fishing in beautiful surroundings, you could do worse than visit John O’Gaunt Fishery, writes Gordon Wray A short drive from Stockbridge, the fishery is the ideal antidote to modern life. Quiet, peaceful and then BANG you’re into a big fish! This was how it was on the Fly Fishers’ latest adventure. The fishery did us proud and provided some fantastic specimen trout and everyone agreed the quality of the fish both rainbow and brown was superb... and

boy, did they fight hard! Many got the better of even the more experienced anglers, but were easily tempted by both lures and dry files, a sure sign summer is just around the corner.

The spoils of victory went to Gary Austin, but the prize for the best-looking fish went to Chris Morgan with a remarkable brown trout weighing in at an ounce shy of 7lb. Here’s Chris, left, with runner-up Bradley Slater. This is becoming a habit. Great angling Captain!

Sports forum launched

Wimborne Minster Town Council is inviting all those interested in sports, recreation, and leisure to join a new Forum dedicated to sharing information, planning developments, and enhancing local opportunities.

It will assess current provisions and foster collaboration and partnerships to improve access and facilities for all.

This initiative aligns with Wimborne’s being awarded Town of Culture 2026, with the Forum playing a key role in preparing for future events and enhancing leisure provisions in the lead-up to this prestigious year.

Community groups, clubs, and individuals passionate about sport and leisure are encouraged to participate and contribute to shaping the future in this sector.

Councillor Jeff Hart, town mayor, said: “This is a golden opportunity for Wimborne sport and leisure.

“We’re keen to engage with

all sports and leisure clubs and individuals.

“The Town of Culture provides great openings for new provision and collaboration on current activities.

“I hope all sports and leisure activities will be represented on the Forum.”

Smartphone driving licences on the way

Big changes are coming to how we carry our driving licences in the UK. A digital version is on the way.

It’s a secure digital version of your current plastic photocard. It’ll be stored securely in the GOV.UK wallet app, which you can download to your phone.

It’s got all the same info, like your name, licence number and expiry date.

It updates automatically if anything changes.

Digital licences use your phone’s built-in security features, such as facial recognition, to help keep your data safe, even if your phone is lost.

The DVLA is introducing digital driving licences as part of a bigger plan to modernise government services.

The aim is to make things simpler and quicker. Going digital will hopefully mean less paperwork and fewer lost cards.

But don’t worry, your plastic card isn’t going anywhere yet. The digital version is optional for now. You can use both.

So if your phone runs out of battery at the worst possible time, your old-school card’s still got you covered. But the idea is that eventually digital will be the norm or default option.

Marina returns to family after 50 years

After being leased for the last 50 years a ‘secret’ Christchurch marina is back under the control of the family who own it.

Little Avon Marina is tucked away behind the Two Riversmeet Leisure Centre and is now being overseen by Charles Wallrock and his sister Jo Turnage.

Their father, the war hero Commander Michael Wallrock, bought what was then an ornamental pond in 1969.

He dug out the marina and created an attractive little

haven in the shadow of Christchurch Priory on the River Avon.

Since 1975 it has been leased, but now it has returned to the family who have plans to invest in it.

It will be managed by Saviour Aquilina who also runs the country’s second-oldest paddleboarding shop there and hires out paddleboards and kayaks.

Charles said: “I was brought

up here and remember my father digging it out. It is a wonderful little marina with room for more than 30 boats - with several berths available this year.

“Most people, even locals, don’t know it exists because it’s like a secret.

“Some boat owners have been with us for decades and we want to create that sense of community that I remember from my childhood.”

Contact the marina on info@ littleavonmarina.com

Pictured are Charles and Saviour at the marina.

Businesses invited to help shape town’s future

Wimborne BID (Wimborne Business Improvement District) is inviting businesses to have their say on the draft renewal business plan for Wimborne BID for the next five years.

On May 22, levy-paying businesses are invited to Allendale House between 9am until 5pm to view and comment on draft proposals before the final 2026-2031 renewal business plan is agreed by the BID board of directors. The BID team will be on hand to answer any questions.

Deputy chairman Sam Devlin said: “This is the next important stage in the renewal ballot process. Since the beginning of this year, we have been talking to as many town businesses as possible, through drop-ins and groups as well as hosting over 60 one to ones.

“We’ve also been asking business owners to complete an online survey so we can collate as much feedback as possible on what they want to see maintained, improved and introduced to the town over the next five years.”

The BID is a business-led initiative to invest money into

the local economy. It was established in 2011 and has been renewed every five years since. It’s a not-forprofit organisation with 330 levy-paying businesses in the town.

These businesses contribute an annual, mandatory fee which goes towards helping to provide and sustain a multitude of services and projects tailored for Wimborne.

Callum Brookes, Oddfellows Arms licencee and BID levy payer says BID has helped him to ‘tap into the right knowledge at the right time.’

He added: “ I’ve got to know BID staff at a personal level, in particular manager Tammy

Sleet who has been of great help to me as I’ve felt my way into the local business scene.

“Tammy knows my core values and ambitions, has explained to me where they can support, and helped me on several occasions to complete tasks that I’ve never done before.

“As a business owner, I’m regularly paying for things that have no benefit to the pub, and with some organisations, I’ve never seen any substance behind the invoice.

“With the BID, my experience has been the opposite.”

Chairman Fiona Harwood said: “Over the past four years, Wimborne BID has

significantly enhanced the local business environment.

“Town centres are struggling but in Wimborne we are punching above our weight, and I believe that is partly because of a strong and active BID.

“Our motto is ‘making it happen’ and by investing in events, festivals and marketing, we have attracted more visitors, boosting footfall and revenue.

“We have also funded additional litter picking and street cleaning. We’ve also worked closely with the authorities and police to improve safety and tackle business crime.

“Collaboration with businesses has provided training, networking and support, strengthening Wimborne’s economy.”

She urged businesses to take this opportunity to have their say.

The final business plan will be completed in July and businesses will then vote on whether they would like the BID to continue to deliver the plan in a ballot which takes place in October.

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15 Stake held by Asian temporarily (4)

14 Club not right to make charge (3)

16 By the sound of it, lavatory is dislodged (6)

Down

Down

2 Excited sound of surprise, we hear, in Japanese poem (5)

2 Excited sound of surprise, we hear, in Japanese poem (5)

3 Take the place of rector, priest and first woman (7)

4 Professional in charge of public titles? (9)

3 Take the place of rector, priest and first woman (7)

5 Divided economy (3)

4 Professional in charge of public titles? (9)

6 The very best addition to coffee maybe (5)

5 Divided economy (3)

6 The very best addition to coffee maybe

7 Determined late group (4,3)

7 Determined late group (4,3)

11 Cadet say lacking bit of authority in suspect association (9)

11 Cadet say lacking bit of authority in suspect association (9)

13 Come into popular woman’s site essentially (7)

15 Stake held by Asian temporarily (4)

18 I, say, love to eat after one (6)

16 By the sound of it, lavatory is dislodged (6)

18 I, say, love to eat after one (6)

20 Inexperienced side restricted healthy drink (5,3)

20 Inexperienced side restricted healthy drink (5,3)

22 Bachelor facing trouble gets security (4)

23 Wait on a nurse carrying first of tablets (6)

22 Bachelor facing trouble gets security (4)

24 Team beginning to exercise by Scottish loch (6)

23 Wait on a nurse carrying first of tablets (6)

24 Team beginning to exercise by Scottish loch (6)

Killer Sudoku Pro:

13 Come into popular woman’s site essentially (7)

15 A university backed offer by the French –characterized by spoken words? (7)

17 Award extremists in state with a large pot? (5)

19 One entering body of church is ingenuous (5)

15 A university backed offer by the French characterized by spoken words? (7)

21 Regular characters in Strand? A little bit (3)

17 Award extremists in state with a large pot?

19 One entering body of church is ingenuous

21 Regular characters in Strand? A little bit

Place 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and boldlined 3×3 box.

No digit may be repeated in any dashed-line cage, and all the digits in each cage must add up to the value shown in that cage.

Local Services

London showcase attracts eager buyers

Symonds & Sampson’s West Country Property Showcase took place in a sunny capital, attracting buyers eager to meet our agents in person to discuss their search requirements.

Many were keen to learn more about relocating or investing in property across our region.

Head of agency Jon Summers led the event, accompanied by Gabriella Placidi and Peter GroutSmith from our Salisbury and Poundbury offices, respectively.

Jon said: “It was clear that more people are commuting back into London to work, as employers encourage staff to return to the office.

“Interestingly, those who have enjoyed the flexibility of remote work in recent years and wish to avoid the daily commute are

now contemplating career changes to facilitate relocation and achieve a better work-life balance.

“Despite the pending rise in stamp duty for secondhomeowners, we still saw strong interest in purchasing additional homes.

“As is often the case, several investors and speculators attended, particularly those interested in opportunities through our auction department.

“This event should reassure sellers across our region that demand from buyers

in London and the Home Counties remains strong.”

Senior farm agent Gabriella Placidi added: “The demand for estates and farmland remains robust, despite recent turmoil, including the retraction of the sustainable farming incentive and changes in inheritance tax.”

Land is still regarded as a safe investment, with interest from international investors, large business owners, farmers, individuals, and charities.

Symonds & Sampson returned to the capital for the London and Country Property Show which attracted buyers, investors, real estate agents and the property press alike.

Poictured are, from left, Bob Bickerstaff, director of the London office, Jon Summers, Gabriella Placidi and Peter Grout-Smith.

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