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Cover: Beech avenue, Wimborne
30 years in business for successful furniture firm
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Husband and wife team Lucy and Mark first opened a furniture sales shop specialising in pine furniture in February 1995.
During the late 80s and 90s, pine was the furniture of choice.
From those early years, their initial business concept continued to grow and evolve.
Now celebrating 30 years in business, A World of Furniture stocks many top brands such as G Plan, LaZ-Btoy, Alstons, Sherborne, Silentnight, Sleepeezee and Highgrove.
The company has made looking after the environment and sustainability one of its top priorities in the last 20 years. It has been awarded and recognised as a leader in
the world of business-based ‘environmentalists’.
Lucy and Mark currently employ more than 25 staff, ‘all of whom are absolutely amazing,’ Mark says.
He addst: “Lucy and I are so thankful for the opportunities and some success.
“The furniture business and our daughters have shaped our lives.
“Life is a great leveller and we have faced many hurdles.
“I’m hopeful that, with the introduction of more furniture brands and our own brands, 2025 will be an improvement over the previous year.
“2025 and beyond will see us ‘serving up’ more fantastic furniture and the growth of our mattress collection and recycling service.”
New minister is welcomed
Wimborne Methodist Church has announced the appointment of the Revd Dr Mark Kimber, above, as its new minister.
As the new minister, Mark will lead the congregation and help guide the church’s mission to serve the local community.
Mark’s appointment follows the retirement of the Revd Deborah Cornish, who concluded her service in August. His arrival marks
an exciting new chapter for the King Street church, which is part of the broader Christchurch & Wimborne Methodist Circuit.
Ted Awty, church steward, said: “We’re incredibly pleased to welcome Rev Mark to Wimborne.
“His passion for ministry and community service will be a tremendous asset to our congregation and the wider area.
“We look forward to his leadership as we continue our work in the heart of Wimborne.”
Mark said: “I’m thrilled to be joining Wimborne Methodist Church and have already received a very warm welcome from the community.
“Wimborne is very close to my heart, having attended Queen Elizabeth School in the 1980s, so it’s a pleasure to be serving the wider community now.”
Sniff out canine clues
Wimborne town centre will be wagging with excitement on Saturday, October 25, as the mayor officially opens a canine treasure trail at 9am in Wimborne Square in support of Guide Dogs.
Shoppers are invited to take part in this playful town-wide hunt for toy guide dog puppies, hidden in shop windows across the town.
Not ‘how much is that doggy in the window?’ - but ‘where is that doggy in the window?’ Clue sheets, at £1.00, are available from the Guide Dogs info stands at Wimborne Square and Crown Mead, with proceeds going to the many services provided by Guide Dogs. Completed trail sheets can be posted into a ‘Treasure Chest’ at Wimborne Square, where the fun continues with a tombola, raffle and a chance to meet real guide dogs and puppies in training. Visitors are reminded to ask handlers before approaching puppies, as these young trainees are learning vital skills for their future partners.
The prize-giving will be at Café
On The Square on Saturday, November 1, at 11am, where prizes, including a weekend break, luxury hamper, garden centre vouchers, Wimborne Town Football Club match tickets, cinema tickets, dining and shopping vouchers and much more, will be awarded.
Schools are also joining in, with Guide Dogs visits to help children learn about sight loss and the work the dogs do.
Wimborne is proud to be a guide dog-friendly town, with many shops welcoming puppy trainers and their pups as they learn to navigate real-world environments. Learn more at visitguidedogs.org.uk/how-youcan-help Picture: WIMBORNE BID
Eight extraordinary young people enjoyed an exciting summer abroad in Japan, Iowa (USA), Turkey, Spain, Germany and Hungary at a Lions International Youth Camp made possible through Ringwood & Fordingbridge Lions Club.
Lions president Alastair Ward said: “For most people this was their first time abroad and the confidence and enthusiasm brought back by each young person is incredible.
“They will have made friendships and memories that will last a lifetime”.
The Lions International Youth Camp & Exchange Program runs each year during the summer months.
Multiple places are available on the scheme, designed to promote friendship, travel and a greater international cultural awareness.
Every trip is unique, and each young person will spend up to two weeks with a host family and then a further week to 10 days at an international youth camp comprising young people from around the world.
If you are aged 16 to 22 and wish to apply for the summer of 2026, contact Ringwood & Fordingbridge Lions Club at www.randflions.org.uk or call 0345 833 5819.
Businesses thanked for their generosity
Wimborne Minster’s mayor, Jeff Hart, has praised the town’s businesses for their generosity in supporting his chosen charities.
On a recent walk around the town, Cllr Hart visited shops and businesses to ask for help with prizes for upcoming charity events. By the time he returned to the town hall, he had gathered a huge number of donations - including jewellery, wine, vouchers, perfumes and chocolates - all donated by local traders.
One of the biggest contributions came from Fine Jewellers, who raised an impressive £861 by donating £1 from every sale made during September.
Cllr Hart said: “I’m absolutely delighted, and humbled, by the generosity of the people and businesses of Wimborne.
“The council is running around 20 events this year to raise money for two fantastic causes: The Millstream Disabled Theatre Group and the youth programme at Dorset Community Action. “These donations will help support raffles and fundraising throughout the year. Thank you, Wimborne!”
The mayor’s charity events are designed to bring the community together and raise vital funds for local groups that make a real difference.
Hospital Friends celebrate 90 years
In their 90th anniversary year the Friends of Victoria Hospital Wimborne held their annual meeting to update members, and the wider community, on the projects which have been funded at the community hospital.
The wellattended meeting heard from the chairman, Anne Salter, how the Friends work closely with NHS colleagues to understand the pressures and priorities and then seek to ‘reach the parts the NHS Budget cannot meet’.
In the interim it is being developed to offer additional, sustainable parking. And ongoing work in the X-Ray department was concluded with an upgrade of the ultrasound room.
The Friends have also provided high specification gynaecological surgical instruments.
The overall theme has been to deliver tangible improvements which benefit both patients and staff.
This year saw a major project to acquire the adjacent former football ground site to allow evolving NHS needs to be met.
To close the evening, president Dr David Pope presented certificates of gratitude to Mary and Chris Steele and to Clare Dickinson, facilities manager DHCT, who has been a huge supporter for the work of the Friends.
The Friends are now looking forward to their next 90 years.
Pictured are Dr David Pope with gardening volunteers Mary and Chris Steele.
Charity launches special club for families
Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s Disability Charity is now running a PMLD Club, dedicated to giving families who have a child with Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities a safe space to meet like-minded parents whilst their children take part in a range of activities.
Held during the school holidays and once a month at weekends during term time, the PMLD Club offers a safe, welcoming space for families to connect, share experiences and enjoy tailored activities.
Children attending the sessions can engage in sensory stories, messy play, music massages, and events led by a range of professionals.
The club also provides access to
a soft play area, sensory room, cinema room, and outdoor space, ensuring a rich and inclusive environment for all participants.
Charlotte Snowshall, short breaks assistant at Diverse Abilities said: “It’s great to be able to offer the PMLD Club sessions for these children and families who often face significant challenges.
“The children get to join in with activities that they may not otherwise have access to, and families get to meet others who are facing similar challenges.”
To learn more about the PMLD Club and to find out about future sessions visit diverseabilities.org.uk/ pmldclub
Mayoral perspective of our town
As Mayor of Lytchett Minster and Upton I would like to draw your attention, with a big thankyou, to three organisations which offer an invaluable service to our community, helping to make our town what it is.
Firstly, congratulations to South Lytchett Camping and Caravan Park which has once again regained its prestigious 5-star and gold rating.
We should be very proud that this family-run business is considered one of the very best in the country.
Meanwhile, Upton in Bloom continues to provide an unrivalled opportunity for residents to participate in community events.
The 2025 horticultural show saw a greater volume of entries
than ever before, with an even higher standard, whilst young people have the chance to demonstrate their literacy skills in the forthcoming schools poetry competition for 5-11-year-olds.
Finally, the contribution made by the Beacon Association Community Arts Group, volunteers who make Upton a brighter, more joyful place with their various mural art boards around the town, their beautiful art garden, adjacent to the Triangle Shopping Parade and, of course, the wonderful postbox toppers.
The deputy mayor and myself were delighted to have our images immortalised on one that now greets visitors to the council offices.
Ray Griffin, Mayor
Human rights laws exist to protect us from government
I’d like to correct a statement made by Chris Chope in your Political Round-up section in the October 3 issue for the benefit of those who might have believed him.
We have laws applicable within UK territorial boundaries that protect us from the actions of each other. We have armed forces to protect us from foreign invaders. Human rights are there to protect us from government. Chope’s proposition that ‘only national parliaments should be able to change human rights law’ is like using speeding motorists to decide on speed limits or burglars to control theft laws. Human rights protect us from you and your colleagues Mr Chope, and if that makes it
slower to deport people, then tough. We’re all entitled to a hearing.
If you think that democracy overrides all these concerns, then consider that the convention was drawn up because a democratically-elected government was free to murder six million Jews. Such ignorance of the purpose of human rights from someone who selects judges is stunning and the derogatory use of the phrase ‘foreign judges’ in what is, after all, a supranational institution may lead some to think that a Putney-born public schoolboy ought not to represent Christchurch.
Steve Parlour Wimborne
These right-wing views belong in a different political party
Once again I find MP Christopher Chope’s ever more extreme right-wing rantings astonishing. His continuing hateful, inciteful and abhorrent views about foreigners
- blaming them for most of our problems - lead me to believe he is in the wrong party and belongs alongside his fellow xenophobics in Reform. Perhaps he is also living in the wrong
decade and the 1930s might be more apposite.
I eagerly await his defection.
R Adams Corfe Mullen
Political round-up
Cutting jobs will not make communities safer
While Parliament has been in recess, I’ve spent the past few weeks away from Westminster and closer to home - attending the Liberal Democrat conference in Bournemouth, working from my office in Wimborne, and focusing on local issues that matter to our community.
This time has allowed me to attend meetings with parish and town councils that usually happen while Parliament is sitting. I’ve also been able to take part in longer visits, including going out on patrol with Dorset Police and spending time in the Law Courts to better understand the challenges facing our justice system.
One thing that stood out is how underfunded our courts have become. While the police have received more money to put officers on the streetssomething I am assured we will see the benefit of in the next few months - the legal system hasn’t kept up. There aren’t enough lawyers to support magistrates,
which means offenders can continue committing crimes while victims wait months - or even years - for justice. Some political parties talk about cutting the civil service to save money, but these cuts affect real jobs. I was told that just one extra legal adviser in Dorset could unlock six more hours of court time every day. That one role could mean up to 500 more cases being heard each yearhelping victims and making our communities safer.
It’s not just the courts. Behindthe-scenes roles in the NHS help make sure hospital beds are available. Support staff in schools allow headteachers to focus on leading. These jobs are often overlooked, but they’re essential. Yes, we can find ways to be more efficient, and technology can help with repetitive tasks - but changes must be made carefully, so we improve services rather than cut corners.
I’m lucky to have a great
Liberal Democrat
Mid-Dorset & North Poole
VIKKI SLADE MP
team supporting my work too. Researchers in London help me understand laws and build strong cases for local issues. Caseworkers in Dorset help me progress cases for my residents, arrange meetings, and make sure I have the facts I need to speak up in Parliament. Recently, many people have contacted me about the Government’s plan for a digital ID system. I’ve made it clear
that I’m against any system that forces people to show IDwhether on paper or a device - to go about their daily lives. We already prove our right to work using our National Insurance number and existing ID. A digital ID won’t stop illegal work, and it won’t help people who are being exploited. Instead, the money would be better spent clearing the backlog of asylum cases and tackling modern slavery.
If this plan comes to Parliament, it will need proper debate. MPs must look at every detail. There may be benefits to having a single way to access government services, but it must be a choice - not something forced on people who aren’t ready or able to go digital.
As always, my focus is on listening to local people, learning from their experiences, and leading with fairness and care. Thank you to everyone who continues to share their views and help shape the work I do.
Council is conniving with the Government
Full of fresh enthusiasm was the Conservative mood as the House of Commons returned after the conference season. Having been one of only five MPs to vote against the Climate Change Act in 2008, I am understandably delighted that the Conservative Party now accepts the error of its ways on Net Zero.
Indeed, it is refreshing to see a public recognition of the great mistake that was made in supporting Ed Miliband in 2008 and subsequently ignoring reality.
As even Boris Johnson now admits, we were wrong. The promise to repeal the Climate Change Act is indeed a game changer. So, also, is the decision to leave the European Court of Human Rights and restore Parliamentary control over laws governing human rights. These policy announcements are fundamental to being able to reduce the costs of energy for household consumers and
industry. High energy prices have contributed to the costof-living crisis and to the crippling of so much of our manufacturing industry. Taking back control of our borders and reversing the tide of illegal immigration can only be achieved if Parliament is free to decide policy on deporting foreign criminals and illegal immigrants, applying British standards of what is fair and just. For example, the English Common Law principle of equity insists that those who seek justice must come ‘with clean hands’.
Another timely announcement by the Conservatives related to the abolition of business rates for high street shops and hospitality. These sectors have been particularly badly hit by the Government’s increase in employers’ National Insurance, which has severely impacted the number of jobs available, particularly for young people. Business rates reform will be a
Christchurch & East Dorset CHRIS CHOPE MP
welcome relief but hopefully, once the overriding need to reduce public expenditure has been met, there will be more scope for further supply side reforms.
n What is the Liberal Democrat controlled Dorset Council doing to protect Dorset’s
rural character and precious environmental assets? The answer seems to be a large zero.
The Dorset Council Local Plan 2021 Options Consultation document gave a local needs figure for Dorset of 1,793 net additional homes each year. The Labour Government, without any objection from the Liberal Democrats, has now increased this requirement by 81% to 3,246 homes each year while also describing this as a minimum.
Such a massive increase in housing, amounting to 55,182 new houses over the 17-year plan period is unacceptable and must be opposed.
It is also another reason why the vast increase in population fuelled by mass immigration must be reversed.
If you share my concerns please email: chopec@parliament. uk and help me hold the local council to account for conniving with the Government to our detriment.
Conservative
Collaboration will end homelessness
As a teenager, the rise of people sleeping rough in London broke my heart. My clique was going to clubs and bars, while others had no roof over their heads.
So, that New Year’s Eve we didn’t go out and spent the money we saved on making sandwiches to distribute to rough sleepers at Waterloo Station and ‘up West’.
The night was, long, cold and wet and no one wanted our sandwiches!
The rough sleepers were well catered for by mobile and static food projects (even a TV celebrity chef!) and had eaten already.
One guy took pity on us, thanked us for caring and relieved us of some sandwiches.
That night did give me an opportunity to listen to people’s stories.
Our preconceived ideas of what it meant to be homeless, who they were and how
Wimborne’s future as a thriving town centre hangs in the balance. A vote against renewing Wimborne BID risks losing more than £500,000 in business investment over the next five years - along with the strategic promotion, events, and support that have helped the town thrive when others have struggled.
Since 2011, Wimborne BID has delivered tangible results for its 330 levy-paying businesses. From boosting footfall through festivals and marketing, to improving safety and cleanliness, Wimborne
they became homeless were challenged repeatedly.
Many people we spoke to had indeed been offered homes by councils and had the help of veteran charities like the Royal British Legion, but ended up homeless again after struggling with their mental health, addictions and unemployment. Now, in 2025, we are back in a homeless and rough sleeping crisis; all the gains of our previous Labour government lost to 14 years of underinvestment and neglect - homelessness doubled under the last government and coalition.
During the last Labour government, the homeless sleeping in West End doorways almost disappeared and this was not solely down to a Labour government prioritising targeted homeless funding and projects.
The 1997 Labour government’s investment in not only health, mental health and substance
abuse services, education and supported housing also involved all government ministries and charities, providing the holistic support that many of the people we spoke to that freezing night needed to get off the streets and not go back; every department pressing forward
Say yes to safeguard town
BID has made things happen.
It’s a business-led, not-for-profit initiative that listens, adapts and acts on what local businesses need.
Without a BID, we will lose:
The Wimborne.info website and social media channels
Christmas advertising, lighting, and events
Discover Wimborne and the Food Festival
Subsidised Business Watch radios
and crime prevention support
Additional street cleaning and mural maintenance
Representation to police and local authorities
Business training, networking, and support.
BID chairman Fiona Pawsey said: “There’s no replacement body waiting in the wings. “Without Wimborne BID, these vital services simply stop.
“It’s your BID and your future
with a common goal. Announced this month, by Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Steve Reed MP, work on the reinvestment in people has already begun; starting with £1billion being allocated to provide secure homes for the homeless, £39billion invested into new social and affordable housing, £950million to increase good temporary accommodation, plus an injection of £84million to councils, to tackle homelessness and rough sleeping.
The South West is receiving the third highest allocation at £9.1million (London, £36.5million and the South East £9.6million) a £22,293 top-up for Dorset Council and £2.2million for BCP Council. I didn’t get a night out that NYE - I got a week in bed with a bad cold, but at least I had a home, a warm bed and roof over my head.
and we urge businesses to vote yes in the ballot this month.”
Penny Stannard of the Private Ear Clinic added: “Wimborne BID is essential in keeping the trade of the town united and driving forward the campaign to keep local businesses in place.
“They listen and change according to the town’s needs.” Sam Devlin, deputy chairman, said: “Voting yes means continued investment, collaboration, and advocacy. “Don’t miss this chance to secure the next five years of progress.”
Police choir concert supporting families
The Dorset Police Male Voice Choir will present Concert For Ukraine at St. John’s Church, Wimborne, on Saturday, November 15, at 7.30pm.
Members have been touched by the suffering and deprivation of the Ukrainian people, and aim to support the 1,700-plus mainly women and children who are hosted in the BCP conurbation. Interspersed with the music, Ukrainians living around the BCP area, represented by the Dorset Ukrainian Community, will tell of their country’s attack on its borders in song and dance.
The choir will perform a raft of popular and
newer songs, romantic, patriotic and also from its well-known repertoire.
Centerpiece to the concert stage will be Wareham sculptor Robert Marshall’s Ukranian Door - the war-scarred residential
front door rescued from a home in the borough of Toretsk in the eastern Donbas region of the country.
Tickets are available from a member of the choir, on line from Eventbrite - search ‘Concert for Ukraine’, from Sue Stein at St John’s Church following the Sunday morning worship service, on the door (if still available). Online tickets are subject to Eventbrite marginal charges.
There are always opportunities to sing with the choir.
Visit: dorsetpolicemalevoicechoir.co.uk for details.
Dorset Labour CANDICE JOHNSON-COLE
Food & Drink
Cooking... with Martha Legg
Chicken orzo tray bake
Regular readers of my column will know that I love easy meal recipes!
This one is very similar to the Marry Me Chicken recipe that we love, but even better; you cook it in the oven!
Ingredients
1½ lb chicken breasts, cut into strips
olive oil
1 tsp each, salt and paprika
1/2 tsp each garlic powder, onion powder and Italian herb blend
2 cups orzo
5 oz sun dried
tomatoes, chopped with oil
1/3 cup green olives, or black olives (optional)
4 cloves garlic, minced
3½ cups chicken stock
1/2 cup crème freche
1/2 tsp salt
Handful of peas
7 oz feta cheese
1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese
Method
Preheat oven to 425F.
Cut your chicken breasts into strips, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, paprika garlic powder, onion powder, Italian herb blend and mix together.
In a frying pan drizzled with oil, cook chicken for 8 minutes, or until golden brown, on both sides and set aside.
In a baking dish, add in the orzo, chicken, sun dried tomatoes, olives, garlic, stock, crème freche, salt and mix together. Bake for 40 minutes.
Add the peas, feta and parmesan cheese and mix together. Bake until golden brown on top.
The 1:1 Diet makes you really confident
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Autumn at Salamander
October saw the ever-popular Food Walk followed by local Chef Colm cooking tapasstyle food and celebrating eco-friendly, long lasting and sustainable cookware.
This included the new greatvalue entry level Earth Friendly pans from Prestige with frying pans from £18.99 and the threepiece saucepan set at £89.99. They have a five-year guarantee, easy grip handles and are suitable for use on all hobs. November’s events include the return of Maggie the Seaside Baker and GBBO contestant with tips on how to make your own savoury biscuits and a special evening event celebrating Thanksgiving with American Danae from Lifetime Brands sharing and baking her Pumpkin Pie recipe and much more.
You can buy tickets for all events in store or be first to hear about them by signing up to the monthly newsletter (in store or via salamandercookshop.com). During October, Salamander
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has great offers on top brands including the iconic KitchenAid stand mixers and Artisan kettles and toasters all made in the same American factory for over 100 years.
They also welcome back the superb Sage range of coffee machines that will help you make barista standard coffee at home - again with some special offers in store.
In November, Salamander will be celebrating 100 years since Le Creuset began manufacturing their versatile enamelled cast iron casserole in France with a number of special offers.
Halloween October ends with Hallowe’en. If you are baking or decorating pumpkins Salamander has baking sheets with ghosts and pumpkins, cutters and cupcake cases as well as a few themed baking dishes and serve-ware from Le Creuset.
Top Tip: An easy way to cut shapes on your pumpkin is to use a cookie cutter!
PROUD MEMBERS OF TRUST A TRADER
SPRAY FOAM REMOVAL FROM £995.00
If spray foam is fitted to your property it can mean that it may be unmortgageable, meaning when you come to sell your property the new owners may not be able to secure a mortgage due to the spray foam installed between your afters. If you have spray foam fitted in your roof, if left it can cause rafters and timbers to rot. The spray foam in your roof can be removed by our professional roofing team, rafters will be sanded down and wood filled and treated. Spray foam will be removed from your property and disposed of safely.
AND REPAIR LEAKS & MOT FROM £175.00
Do you have damp patches, stains on the ceiling, water coming into the property? DON’T DELAY! Call Worksmart today on 01202 927912 / 07958 662504. Someone will be with you within 12 hours.
I am a great believer in prevention is better than cure. So my team and I are offering a moss removal service which entails all moss removed and to re-point any defective cement works from ridge line and re-cement any broken gables.
Rugs & Carpets; and Antique Furniture & Objects
Saturday 8th November
A 1920s vintage car and caravan combination could make a perfect duo for holidaying in the Charterhouse specialist auction of classic & vintage cars on October 23 at the Haynes Motor Museum. Richard Bromell said: “The duo certainly hark back to a time when the pace of life and motoring was a lot slower!” . The 1925 Eccles caravan is affectionately known as ‘Helen’. Sadly, the owner died recently and this vintage caravan,
which could be used as an Airbnb, guest accommodation or a writer’s retreat, is being sold without reserve. A car which could have towed a similar caravan nearly 100 years ago is a 1928 Austin 12/4 two-door tourer with a Dickie seat from near Marlborough. Still running and driving well this rare aluminium-bodied Austin is estimated at £7,000£9,000.
n Richard and the team can be contacted for specialist advice and valuations at the Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, 01935 812277 or via rb@charterhouseauction.com.
Christmas All Things
LIGHTS SWITCH ON CAROLS IN THE SQUARE
CHRISTMAS PANTOMIME AT THE REGENT
THE RED HOUSE MUSEUM EVENTS
CHRISTCHURCH PRIORY CHURCH SERVICES
See inside for all the festive details.
All Things Christmas
Total Energy Services and Operation Christmas Child: donations now open!
Holly Lamb has been organising the Blackmore Vale & Stour and Avon (Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire) shoebox appeal for 6 years.
After being truly blown away by the support of our local community last year she is back accepting donations for the 2025 Operation Christmas Child Appeal.
Sending love and hope to ALL children
The Operation Christmas child shoeboxes go to millions of children in need across the world.
Currently Samaritan’s Purse in partnership with local churches are on the ground helping to provide humanitarian aid and assistance to people in areas of conflict and poverty. is perfect too.
Where do the shoe boxes go?
Over 220 million children have received a shoebox in over 170 countries around the world.
Gift ideas...
• Toys - stuffed animals, dolls, musical items, etc.
• Hygiene items - hairbrush, flannel, toothbrush, soap, etc.
• Educational: pencils, notepads, coloured pencils, paints, etc.
• Clothing: hats, gloves, mittens, leggings, socks, tops, etc.
Please DO NOT donate toothpaste, lotions, liquids, sweets /food or war related items
How can you help?
Simply drop any donations into our Blandford office and we will do the rest.
GET INVOLVED!
If you would like to get involved in the 2025 appeal or find out more information, you can either contact Holly at Total Energy Services (holly@totalenergy.co.uk) or call 01258 472132. Closing date for donations - 31st October
Be our guest this Christmas with The Regent
This festive season, The Regent in Christchurch invites you to “Be Our Guest” for a magical production of Beauty and the Beast. Running from 13–28 December, this marks Christchurch’s firstever professional Christmas pantomime, brought to life by Polka Dot Pantomimes.
Packed with dazzling costumes, stunning scenery, and plenty of audience participation, this familyfriendly show promises festive fun for everyone aged 3 to 103. Join us to boo the wicked Grimalkin, laugh with French Franc, and cheer as the Beast wins Belle’s heart.
With 24 performances across the holidays, it’s the perfect treat for families, schools, and party groups. There’s even a real dog on stage, Pixie, Belle’s adorable companion! Don’t miss out on this magical experience. Book now for the region’s finest festive event!
Call the Box Office on 01202 499199 or visit www.theregent.co.uk for tickets.
All Things Christmas
Christmas in Christchurch 2025
Mark the official start of Christmas with the Christchurch Christmas Lights Switch On. Join Christchurch Town Council on November 22 for a day filled with entertainment, beginning at 11 am, with the magical light switch on at 5 pm. Experience live performances from top acts, local bands, and choirs. Explore the vibrant markets, offering unique gifts and delicious treats.
ADVERTISING FEATURE
The Horton Inn
Gather your loved ones and celebrate the most magical time of the year with us!
2 COURSE - £35 | 3 COURSE -
£40
On December 13, from 4:30 to 5:30 pm, gather in Saxon Square for a festive carol singalong led by the Christchurch Baptist Church band. Bring your LEDlit lanterns, light-up wands, and festive umbrellas to add sparkle to the celebration. Brought to you from Christchurch BID.
From December 13 to 28, be enthralled by the enchanting pantomime, “Beauty and the Beast,” at the Regent Centre and discover the Living Advent Calendar, delighting audiences nightly at 6PM from December 1 to 24 with pop up performances.
For more information www.visit-christchurch.co.uk
IN CHRISTCHURCH 2025
Christmas Menu available 1 st - 24 th December (excluding Sundays)
EARLY BIRD OFFER -
Pre order with a deposit before 1st December and each customer will receive a FREE glass of Prosecco
GET IN TOUCH
01258 840252
The Horton Inn, Cranborne Road, Wimborne, BH21 5AD Instagram: hortoninnwimborne | Facebook: The Horton Inn
BEAUTY
AND THE BEAST CHRISTMAS PANTOMIME
Saturday 13th - Sunday 28th December
The Regent
Professional pantomime arrives at the Regent this Christmas as we welcome award winning Polka Dot Pantomimes to present a tale as old as time - Beauty and the Beast. Book your tickets via: www.theregent.co.uk
CAROLS IN THE SQUARE
Saturday 13th December, 4.30pm-5.30pm Saxon Square
A festive singalong in Saxon Square. Accompanied by the brilliant Christchurch Baptist Church Band (famed for their Beers and Carols nights!), this is the perfect opportunity to come together and sing your heart out to all your Christmas Carol favourites!
CHRISTCHURCH PRIORY CHURCH SERVICES
LIGHT SWITCH ON
Saturday 22nd November, 11am - 7pm
Christchurch Town Centre
• Market Traders
• Live Music
• Children’s Entertainment
And so much more!
Light Switch on at 5pm!
Brought to you by Christchurch Town Council
There is nothing more Christmassy than enjoying a live concert, Christmas market or Christmas Service at the beautiful Priory Church over the festive season.
For list of events and details please visit: www.christchurchpriory.org
THE RED HOUSE MUSEUM EVENTS
The Red House Museum will be offering a variety of Christmas activities including Arts and Crafts for all the family to enjoy!
To find out more about what’s on offer this Christmas and to book visit: www.hampshireculture.org.uk/red-housemuseum-and-gardens
We would love for everyone to help us light up Saxon Square whilst we sing! Bring along homemade lanterns (LED lit), LED light-up wands and clear umbrellas adorned with Christmas decor and fairy lights! Let’s make Saxon Square sparkle! Mulled Wine and mince pies will also be available to purchase for that extra special Christmas feel.
visit-christchurch.co.uk
All Things Christmas Countdown to Christmas
It might still feel a little early, but Christmas is just around the corner and now’s the perfect time to start planning! From organising festive get togethers to booking your Christmas party or starting your gift shopping, a little preparation now will make the run-up to December stress-free and full of excitement.
Local shops, restaurants, and venues are already busy preparing for the festive season with special offers, menus, and events. Supporting local businesses not only helps your community thrive but also means you’ll find unique gifts and experiences that make Christmas truly memorable.
Don’t forget to book your Christmas pantomime and festive entertainment early, tickets for popular shows and family events always sell fast. Whether it’s a magical night at the theatre, a festive concert, or a Christmas fair, securing your spot now ensures you won’t miss out on the fun.
So, as the countdown begins, start planning, shop local, and get those bookings in early! Christmas will be here before you know it!
Slimming World
STURMINSTER MARSHALL
Sturminster Marshall Memorial Hall Churchill Close BH21 4BQ Janet 07534 613183 New Group opening Wednesday 22nd October 7pm
FERNDOWN
Ferndown Village Hall Church Road BH22 9ET
Tuesday 5:45pm & 7:30pm Liz 07415 654293
New Consultant relaunching group Tuesday 21st October
FERNDOWN
Ferndown Village Hall Church Road
Thursdays 7:30am 9am & 10:30am Fiona 07947 875246
CORFE MULLEN
The Royal British Legion
Wednesdays 9am, 11am, 3:30pm, 5:15pm & 7pm
Lucy 07749 983274
BROADSTONE
The Conservative Club
Fridays 8:30am & 10am Lucy 07749 983274
Tuesdays 7:30am, 9am, 10:30am, 4pm, 5:30pm & 7pm Louise 07902 566149
WEST MOORS
Pinehurst Community Church 90 Pinehurst Road
Wednesdays 3:30pm, 5:30pm & 7:30pm Thursdays 9am & 10:30am Karen 07795 820310
COLEHILL
St Michaels Church Centre
Colehill Lane
Thursday 6pm
Saturday 7:30am & 9am Karen 07957 234839
BLANDFORD
British Legion
Wednesdays 8:30am, 10am & 11:30am Tracey 07776 309982
BLANDFORD
Methodist Church, The Close Thursdays 5:30pm & 7:30pm
Tracey 07776 309982
Amy lost 3st 12lbs (24.5kg) in 9 months
CHRISTCHURCH
Twynham Church 99 Barrack Road
Thursdays 5:30pm & 7pm Alana 07896 197485
CANFORD HEATH
Canford Heath Community Centre Mitchell Road
Monday 5.30pm & 7pm
Wednesday 9am & 10:30am Sue 07561 530220
OAKDALE
St George’s Church Hall Darby’s Lane
Thursdays 5:15pm & 6:45pm Lorna 07412 623145
CASTLEPOINT
St Edmund Campion Church Thursdays 5:30pm & 7:00pm
Belinda 07971 356743
CASTLEPOINT
St Edmund Campion Church Thursdays 9:00am & 10.30am
Debbie 07931 480464
BOSCOMBE EAST
Ilford United Reformed Church Ropley Road
Wednesdays 7:30am & 9:00am Charlotte 07954 237438
* When you commit to 6 or 12 weeks of group support between 13th April and 3rd May 2025
real food, real support, real results
Terms and conditions apply, visit slimmingworld.co.uk/offers for more information. free membership* visit our website for details
* When you commit to 6 or 12 weeks of group support between 13th April and 3rd May 2025
Terms and conditions apply, visit slimmingworld.co.uk/offers for more information.
Saturdays 8am & 9.30am Fran 07720 868526
CHRISTCHURCH
Twynham Church 99 Barrack Road
Mondays 5:30pm & 7pm Gill 07707 031305
VERWOOD
Verwood Memorial Hall Ringwood Rd
Tuesday 7.30am & 9am
Wednesday 3.30pm, 5.30pm & 7.30pm Debbie 07931 480464
VERWOOD
Verwood Methodist Church Hall Vicarage Rd
Thursdays 6pm
Debbie 07931 480464
CREEKMOOR
Christ Church, Northmead Drive
Tuesdays 5:30pm & 7pm Sue 07561 530220
Spooktacular Halloween trail in haunted forest on the Dorset / Hampshire border
23 October - 2 November 2025
S
tep into the shadows this Halloween as Forestry England welcomes the return of a spectacular illuminated trail to Moors Valley Country Park and Forest on the Dorset & Hampshire border.
Halloween At Moors Valley is set to be even more thrilling with brand-new installations that will turn the forest into a spine-tingling, spooky setting.
Running from 23 October – 2 November, the trail will include a ghostly walk through the forest cemetery where spirits linger, a possessed pumpkin farm flowing with grisly grins, a bodysnatcher hiding among the trees and lurking in the shadows, an eerie-looking scarecrow standing still (unless you get too close…), and more.
There will also be devilishly delicious snacks available to purchase. From bewitched burgers to freaky fries, there’s something for every monster in your crew. Sip on a wickedly good hot toddy or indulge in a decadent hot chocolate as you soak up the spooky atmosphere.
The perfect experience for friends and all the family, Halloween At Moors Valley takes place during the October half-term. Kids can dress-up in their favourite spooky costumes, whilst dogs are welcome too, so your furry friends can join in on all the fang-tastic fun!
Whether you’re hunting for Halloween events near Southampton, Poole, Bournemouth, or just looking for the best Halloween Events in UK, Halloween At Moors Valley is a must-visit destination. Ideal for families looking for Halloween days out, couples searching for spooky date night ideas, or friends searching for a ghoulish night out.
Travel & Parking
Moors Valley is easily accessible by car, signposted with brown tourist information signs from the A31 at Ashley Heath or approach roads from West Moors.
Parking is limited and a parking space MUST be purchased in advance along with your trail entry tickets online.
Tickets:
Tickets available from: https://www.forestryengland.uk/ moors-valley-halloween
Tickets range from £14-£18
Address:
Moors Valley Country Park and Forest, Horton Rd, Ashley Heath, Ringwood BH24 2ET
New thrills for 2025
23 October – 2 November A trail of
HOW TO TRAIN YOUR
DRAGON
SAT1 NOVEMBER ST
Get ready to soar into magical adventures and mythical fun with a jam-packed programme of dragon-themed activities
Join Hiccup, Toothless and their friends on an exciting Dragon Hunt.
Crafts galore in Dragon
Design Studio - create your own dragon and win a prize
Dragon flying practice
Sheep launching Hiccup’s Hose-Down
Dragons & Vikings descend on Wimborne!
Museum of East Dorset Unleashes “How to Train Your Dragon – Wimborne Edition” Now running until Saturday 1st November.
Wimborne’s award-winning Museum of East Dorset has officially gone full dragon mode—and the mythical mayhem is already underway! From now through Halloween and into early November, the museum invites families, fantasy fans, and fearless adventurers to dive into ‘How to Train Your Dragon – Wimborne Edition’, a fire-cracking celebration of creativity, courage, and just the right amount of spooky chaos.
Following the success of its summer Minecraft activities, the museum is turning up the heat with a spectacular series of dragon-themed experiences.
Embark on a museum-wide Dragon Trail quest to track down elusive dragons hiding in historic corners. Design your own dragon in the craft workshop or enter the Dragon Art Competition. In a special Dragon Design Studio, submit your fiercest, funniest, or most fabulous dragon artwork for a chance to win a prize judged by the Mayor of Wimborne. Or why not try Viking Shield Making and craft your own shield—perfect for defending against ghostly ghouls or rogue sheep.
There’s even Hands-On Dragon Training: Learn dragon flight techniques, firefighting skills, and earn your wings as a certified Dragon Master. At the Sheep Launching & Hiccup’s Hose-Down- expect splashes and lots of giggles!
And it would not be Halloween without Fancy Dress Fun. Transform into dragonloving legends, spooky Vikings, or mythical monsters with the museum’s treasure trove of costumes.
Whether you’re visiting today, planning a weekend outing, or gearing up for half-term, the Museum of East Dorset promises a magical mix of history, fantasy, and Halloween fun. No need to book – just come along and remember one entry gives you access to the museum for a whole year.
The perfect place to Pick your Pumpkins
The pumpkin patch at North Farm Horton in Dorset is a wonderful place for families to enjoy the autumn season.
Surrounded by beautiful countryside, it’s the perfect spot for kids and grown-ups to have fun and pick their own pumpkins. The colourful patch is full of pumpkins and gourds of all shapes and sizes, and there’s something special about choosing your own perfect pumpkin.
I t’s a great way to celebrate the harvest season, have some fun outdoors, and create happy memories with family and friends. The pumpkin patch is a true autumn highlight in Dorset, perfect for making special seasonal memories.
Follow ‘North Farm Sunflowers, Pumpkins & Sweetcorn’ on Facebook to find out when ‘Dirty Dog Dorset’ and ‘Crepe Salut’ will be serving their delicious pizzas and crepes.
Open from 4th – 31st October, no booking required, free entry and pumpkins start from £1.
Halloween at Wimborne Model Town
This October half term, head to Wimborne Model Town to enjoy its Halloween activities, running 27 October to 2 November. With spooky storytelling, face painting, luck dip, fancy dress and the famous Halloween quiz, families will truly have a frightfully fun time!
Open daily this autumn, discover the Model Town, Wimborne’s Little Treasure since 1952. Walk around the town in 1/10 scale and view the Model of the Model in 1/100 scale. Take a quiz to guide you through over one hundred miniature shops, homes and businesses, in beautiful gardens. Enjoy the sensory gardens and make music on outdoor Musical Instruments.
Meet the Wareham Bears, drive a train in the Model Railway, discover ‘Life Before Lego’” and wonder at the Beryl Dade Dolls’ House Collection. You can even play a round of Crazy Golf.
Enjoy refreshments at the café which offers drinks, delicious cakes and lunches.
And you can come back again and again! Your entry ticket is valid for twelve months.
More info at www.wimborne-modeltown.com
Have a spook-tacular time at Monkey World this October half-term!
As well as 250 rescued and endangered primates to see, the
Kid’s activity centre is open throughout half-term with spooky sand art, creepy crafts and a terrifying trail to keep the little ones entertained. Follow our “creatures of the night”, the slow loris, by spotting their glow-in-the-dark eyes hidden around the centre, then learn about the amazing acrobats, the gibbons, for International Gibbon Day!
Combining fun with conservation, free daily talks by the dedicated Primate Care Staff explain all about man’s closest living relative. Pre-bookable guided tours are also available, as well as a self-guided talk accessed via your own smartphone device.
Once you’ve seen the stars of TV’s Monkey Life, your little monkeys can let off some steam in the Great Ape Play Area, the south’s largest adventure playground.
You can support Monkey World to continue their rescue and rehabilitation work by joining the Adopt a Primate Scheme which includes a photograph, certificate, three editions of the Ape Rescue Chronicle and free entry to the park for a year!
To top it off, on October 31st, kids in full Halloween fancy dress get into Monkey World for FREE! With a free fancy dress competition, Halloween is marvellous at Monkey World.
Home & Garden
‘Jollypoly’ party grows community spirit
In Jolly Good Company, a Dorsetbased registered charity, is celebrating an exciting new chapter in its work bringing joy, creativity and companionship to older people in the community.
The charity has opened a new polytunnel for its much-loved Step Outside gardening group at Kingston Lacy Allotments.
The group offers members the chance
to grow fruits, vegetables, flowers and more, or simply enjoy a cup of Dorset Tea, biscuits, and a friendly chat amid the beaty of the Dorset countryside. The new polytunnel provides a warm, dry space to meet and work when the weather is less kind, as well as extending the growing season and creating a perfect spot for nurturing seedlings and young plants all year round.
A ‘Jollypoly’ party was held with Jeff Hart, Mayor of Wimborne, cutting the ribbon to mark the occasion and there were plenty of homemade cakes to enjoy.
Special thanks went to head gardener Anni Sax and volunteer Duncan Ray, - known as the ‘Jolly Volley’ - for their hard work and gratitude was also expressed to Waitrose Wimborne and Ferndown and Merley Rotary.
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CONTACT
2000 visitors to flower festival raise £10,000
The first Flower Festival to be held in Wimborne Minster for three years attracted more than 2,000 visitors and raised in excess of £10,000 towards the cost of a proposed ramp and improved steps to make the historic Minster readily accessible to everyone.
The Festival was opened by the Lord Lieutenant of Dorset Michael Dooley, with a special ‘cry’ for the occasion given by Iain Mitchell Town Crier of West Moors, standing in for Wimborne Minster’s town Crier chris Brown.
The Festival, entitled The Delights Of Dorset, was designed and organised by Christine Oliver who said she was grateful for all the help and support she had received.
She added: “Twelve Dorset flower clubs took part, each having been given a title depicting somewhere in Dorset, such as Durdle Door, Gold Hill, the Cheese Festival and of course the Jurassic Coast.
“The latter featured a 16ft dinosaur, Demelza, and her baby Dino, made out of papier mache.
“The clubs were joined by the Minster’s own team of flower arrangers and some individuals.
“There were more than
60 tableaux and smaller arrangements filling every corner of the Minster with colour, taste and smells of the countryside.
“Visitors were greeted by a lovely display depicting the Dorset Flag, created by Carnival Flowers the local florist that supplied many of the flowers for the various arrangements”.
Christine also thanked the Wimborne BID, some local firms and other individuals for their sponsorship towards the festival.
Light refreshments were available throughout.
The festival was a great success evidenced by numerous comments from visitors which included, ‘A mini-Chelsea Flower Show, beautiful’, and ‘Absolutely stunning displaysvery talented people’.
The festival was the culmination of a month of events which commemorated the 1300th anniversary of the death of the Minster’s Patron Saint Cuthburga.
Anthony Oliver
Farming & Environment
Throughout the whole of August we were digging out the foundations for the wood bay extension. Actually, when I say ‘we’ I really mean Will, one of our Co-Farmers.
He has dug out, almost singlehandedly, an area 3.5m x 7m to enable a concrete floor to be poured in to be the foundations for our wood bay extension. The funding for this project has been provided by Wessex Water and this is the first stage of the extension allowing more people to be able to work in the wood bay.
The day of the concrete pour was met with great excitement and we all waited to watch the concrete being poured in and helped with spreading it around. The tamping was undertaken by Rob, yard manager, and one of our Volunteers, Alan, who have done a
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
professional job. Sadly Will was on holiday on the day of the pour but we have signed his name in the concrete for him to see on his return next week.
As with all the fruit on the trees, we have been enjoying bumper crops of all our vegetables and finding out different ways to store them. We have a dehumidifier which we are using to dry out different vegetables and Christine, who loves a crafting project, beautifully decorated a wreath with assorted chilies; the result is beautiful. We are getting to the Harvest Festival time of year and we have started donating a hamper of all our lovely produce for display in the Minster. The hamper is donated to the Wimborne Food Bank and is co-
ordinated by the lovely Beryl. You may even have seen it on display in the Minster over the Green Festival week. We are always trying different ways to process our meat and for the first time we are able to offer our own gammon and sliced ham alongside our charceuterie range as well as our popular sausages, bacon, pork joints and burgers.
Our last Open Day of the year is on Saturday, October 25, 10am to 4pm, so please do pop down to see us all - it’s a free event but we will be charging for food and drinks.
This gives our local community an opportunity to look around the farm and see what we do and for you to chat to staff and volunteers.
Farming & Environment
Compost donations from birthday firm
Volunteer gardeners looking after one of Bournemouth’s beauty spots have been kept busy after receiving a large donation of compost. Eco Sustainable Solutions, which handles green and food waste for both BCP Council and Dorset Council, offered free soil and compost to 30 good causes to mark its 30th anniversary.
Among those chosen to receive two bulk bags were the Friends of Coy Pond, pictured right.
Founded in 1998, the group is committed to preserving the tranquillity of the rockery and grounds surrounding the pond.
Volunteers meet every Tuesday between 10am and noon during the
growing season to look after the popular attraction. The Eco compost was used in the various gardens created around the pond, including the Tropical Garden, Stumpery, Stairway to Heaven, Flowery Dell and Spring Garden.
Wayne Hancock, chairman of the Friends of Coy Pond, said: “We’re very grateful for such a generous donation.”
Bryony-Mai Hammond of Eco said: “This is our way of putting something back into the community and saying a very big thank-you for all the support we’ve received over the last three decades.”
The facts about knockdown
Knockdown disbudding is now a routine procedure to prevent horn development in calves, improving safety for handlers and reducing injury risk among animals. Animals with horns can bully the others without horns, which is not permitted under Red Tractor standards. Knockdown disbudding involves sedating the calf before the procedure, simplifying handling compared to conventional disbudding. Knockdown disbudding provides several benefits: No set up needed. No need for a crush or any other form of handling system. Very efficient: It is much quicker and cleaner compared with the restraint handling system. Previously, we would have assumed that knockdown disbudding reduced stress, however recent research suggests that growth rates are reduced approximately 21 days in sedated calves, compared to those conventionally disbudded. This evidence is important to discuss on farm when creating a bespoke disbudding plan for your calves. WHAT DOES THE KNOCKDOWN PROCEDURE INVOLVE?
Sedation: Administration of a sedative to calm and relax the calf followed by lateral recumbency about 10 min later.
Pain Management: A local anaesthetic is injected and NSAIDs for ongoing pain relief. Disbudding: Once the area is numb, a hot iron is used to cauterise, burn the horn bud & remove it.
Recovery Monitoring: Calves are monitored during recovery and put in a sternal position to enable release of abomasal gases and prevent bloating. It would take 2 to 3 hours for the calves to recover fully.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST? There is a visit fee and a fixed charge of £9.50 per calf
ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
including sedation, pain relief and labour. While the calf is sedated, we can perform other procedures like castrations at an additional cost.
NEW RESEARCH A recently-published article found that in the shortterm postdisbudding period (up to three weeks post disbudding), sedated calves had a reduced growth rate of 0.14kg/day compared to conventionally disbudded calves. This difference was not present after six weeks post-disbudding, when conventionally and sedated calves growth rates were comparable. Importantly, the level of
disbudding
largest drop in growth rates. This cohort of calves who were incompletely sedated contributed to the overall reduction in growth rates in the sedated group. We have worked hard within the practice to ensure that maximum sedation levels are achieved during knock down disbudding, but it is important that we monitor and discuss reasons for incomplete sedation on each farm, as breed differences and calf stress prior to disbudding may have an effect on this.
Knockdown disbudding has become increasingly popular and offers a quick and efficient method to disbud calves. However, there is a short-term effect on the calves following sedation, which can result in a reduction of growth rates.
friarsmoorlivestockhealth co uk
farmoffice@friarsmoorlivestockhealth
Events
Wimborne Art Club is holding its annual winter exhibition at Pamphill Village Hall, Wimborne, on November 21, 1pm4pm and November 22 and 23, 10am-4pm. The exhibition showcases the work of the club’s members and includes crafts, cards as well as paintings, all for sale. There is a selection of subject matter and styles to suit all tastes and pockets. Coffee, tea and mince pies will be available. Entrance and parking are free.
The image above is by Jackie wedgery
Trad Jazz Band
Sunset Café Stompers are coming to Gussage
All Saints Village Hall on Saturday, October 18, starting 7.00pm. To include two-course meal.
Contact Bob on 01258 840168 for tickets and information
Cello and piano duo next in series
Avon Valley Concerts is delighted to welcome cellist Laura van der Heijden and pianist Jâms Coleman to the Trinity Centre in Ringwood on Friday, October 31. The concert will start at 7pm and ticket price is £18, with under-25s admitted free.
Laura van der Heijden is an accomplished cellist who won the BBC Young Musician of the Year competition in 2012. Earlier this year she gave a wonderful performance of the Elgar Cello Concerto with the Bournemouth Symphony
Orchestra. Accompanying Laura will be Jâms Coleman, a pianist who regularly plays as a soloist, chamber musician and vocal accompanist at prestigious festivals in the UK and abroad. The duo have recorded two albums, the latest of which, Path To The Moon, was released in 2024
to excellent reviews, being described as ‘gently alluring, enigmatic and romantic’ by Gramophone.
Laura and Jâms will perform a programme including works by Milhaud, Boulanger, Fauré and Franck.
Venue: Trinity Centre, Ringwood, BH24 1DH. Tickets from Greyfriars Community Centre and Grants Estate Agents in Ringwood, Caxton Decor in Fordingbridge, via avonvalleyconcerts.com and on the door.
Enjoy the starkness of Scott
There’s a rare chance to experience Ivor Novello Award-winning singer/songwriter Scott Matthews’ ever-evolving, beautifully stark solo show at Lighthouse Poole on Thursday, October 23. Matthews’ revered debut album, Passing Stranger earned him widespread critical acclaim with its bold mix of folk, rock, blues and Eastern-inspired songwriting, and in 2007 his first single, Elusive, won the Ivor Novello for Best Song Musically and Lyrically. From there, Scott went on to perform on a number of international sell-out tours with artists such as Rufus Wainwright, Bert Jansch, Robert Plant and Alison Krauss, Foo Fighters, Snow Patrol and Tori Amos. His follow-up albums saw
Plant come onboard for a guest contribution on second album, Elsewhere, and legendary bassist Danny Thompson appearing on his third release What The Night Delivers, having encountered each other whilst performing
Shaftesbury Emporium
Friday & Saturday, October 17 & 18, 9am4.30pm, Town Hall Shaftesbury. Lots of wonderful locallycrafted & consumable items for sale. Free entry. Supporting DSAA & Weldmar Hospice
in Joe Boyd’s stage production of Way To BlueThe Songs Of Nick Drake. n Thursday, October 23, 8pm (Sherling Studio). Tickets and information from 01202 280000.
www.lighthousepoole.co.uk.
Charity Christmas fair St Catherine’s WI Hall On The Hill, 17 Marlow Drive, Christchurch. Saturday, December 6, 10am-2pm. Tombola cards, gifts, knitting, jewellery and more with lots of cake and tea. Entrance 50p, under-12s free
The Sun won’t go down on Nik!
It’s more than 40 years since Nik Kershaw first exploded on to the UK pop scene as a charttopping solo artist. A string of global hits, including Wouldn’t It Be Good, The Riddle and I Won’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me, saw him spend an astonishing 62 weeks on the UK singles chart through 1984 and 1985. He also performed a memorable set at the iconic Live Aid concert at Wembley in front of an estimated global audience of 1.9bn.
Ronan Keating, Lulu, Bonnie Tyler, and many more.
But it’s not just as a solo artist that Nik has enjoyed global success - he’s also written and produced bestselling songs for a string of top artists including Elton John, Sya, Gary Barlow,
He wrote the Chesney Hawkes smash The One And Only, which spent five weeks at number one in 1991 and cracked the top 10 in the USA.
“The royalties from that single put my kids through
university and private school,” he jokes.
So, it’s fair to say that Nik Kershaw has got plenty to talk about... with his trademark dry wit and selfdeprecating humour.
And that’s exactly what he will be doing on an intimate theatre tour with a difference.
Musings & Lyrics coincides with the launch of his new book which tells the stories behind every song from his nine studio albums.
n November 15, 7.30pm, Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne. Tickets are available from tivoliwimborne.co.uk, box office 01202 85566.
Order Nik’s new book at awaywithmedia.com/buybooks/entertainment.
Events Rory Bremner makes a great impression
Lighthouse is delighted to welcome the long-awaited return of Rory Bremner on its Theatre stage.
For four decades, Rory has been the voice of our timesquite literally.
In this intimate new show, the master mimic and satirist combines his si gnature standup with candid conversation, accompanied by a rotating cast of special guest hosts. Expect a virtuoso display of vocal mimicry, razor-sharp political commentary, and revealing insights from the man who’s made a career of being other people.
n Friday, November 28, 7.45pm. Age guidance: 16+ Tickets and information from 01202 280000.
www.lighthousepoole.co.uk.
Popular choir to perform at the Minster
Bournemouth Bach Choir will be performing at Wimborne Minster with a professional orchestra and soloists on Saturday, November 8, at 7.30pm.
The main work is Karl Jenkins’ The Armed Man (A Mass for Peace) which is poignant for Remembrance weekend.
Jenkins’s powerful work was commissioned by the Royal Armouries, and not only describes the horrors of war but offers the hope of peace as an end to armed conflict. The choir will also perform Haydn’s Nelson Mass.
Tickets at £15, £20 and £24 are available online from ticketsource. co.uk/bournemouth-bach-choir, Square Records Wimborne, (01202) 883203, and on the door.
(Students half price and free admission for accompanied young people under 17 years of age.)
Bournemouth Bach Choir was reformed in 1987 and, since then, has developed a fine reputation and a large following, performing regular concerts
with a professional orchestra. It has given many highly-acclaimed performances, including all the major choral works of JS Bach, Brahms, Duruflé, Fauré and Mozart settings of the Requiem; Mozart and Haydn Mass settings, Bruckner Choruses and
Motets, and an annual performance of Handel’s Messiah at Christmas time. Our venues include Christchurch Priory, Wimborne Minster, Romsey Abbey and Salisbury Cathedral. Head alongand enjoy some highquality choral music.
Anything with a plug, battery or cable can be reused or recycled. Bag up your unwanted electricals, and book a free home collection or attend a FREE Give or Take event.
Scan the QR code or visit www.litterfreedorset.co.uk/ recycle-your-electricals for info
Wimborne Give or Take event: Saturday 1st November
Wimborne Community Centre 9am to 12pm
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6 Bring up place around island with large flower (5)
7 A grain’s brewed in Spanish drink (7)
6 Bring up place around island with large flower (5)
8 Vain TV relic’s upset government employee (5,7)
7 A grain’s brewed in Spanish drink (7)
14 Renew note in official request for silence (7)
8 Vain TV relic’s upset government employee (5,7)
16 Alter work with a line regarding a side? (7)
14 Renew note in official request for silence
18 Some spot terrain for aquatic animal (5)
16 Alter work with a line regarding a side?
18 Some spot terrain for aquatic animal (5)
20 Old cricket club rejected rugby? It gets to happen (5)
20 Old cricket club rejected rugby? It gets happen (5)
Place 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and bold-lined 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.
LOGS FOR SALE
AFCB raises £4,725 for Home-Start Wessex
Families charity Home-Start Wessex has received a donation of £4,725 from AFC Bournemouth following their two-year charity partnership.
Over the past two seasons, AFCB has worked closely with Home-Start Wessex and its other charity partners, Stormbreak, Helpful Hounds, and Mosaic, to involve their beneficiaries and teams in club activities, utilising the power of football to raise awareness of their vital work within local communities.
The club worked closely with HomeStart Wessex, hosting their family Christmas event at the Vitality Stadium, and a matchday activation at the AFC Bournemouth Men’s match against Brentford, where the charity served as flagbearers.
To celebrate International Women’s Day, young supporters of the charity walked out as mascots with AFC Bournemouth Women’s players at the
Motoring
Ringwood Community Hub.
Whilst the primary objective of the partnership is to work alongside the charities to raise the profile of the positive work they are doing within the local community, funds from events such as the club’s Sporting Dinner and
Corporate Golf Days are collated and shared between the charity partners and the Cherries Community Fund.
To mark the end of the partnership, a total of £18,900 was shared equally among the four charity partners, with each receiving a cheque for £4,725.
Caroline Pope of Home-Start Wessex, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to AFC Bournemouth for their fantastic support over the past two years.
“Their donation will enable us to continue our life-changing work to give children the best possible start in life.”
Founded in 1995, Home-Start Wessex is celebrating 30 years of supporting local families in 2025.
Home-Start Wessex is actively recruiting kind, compassionate volunteers to offer emotional and practical support to parents with young children.
If you could spare a few hours a week to help, contact heidi@homestartwessex. org.uk. No experience is needed.
2016 (65) Audi A5 Coupe 1.8TFSi S Line Nav 2dr. Sat nav, parking sensors, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, full leather, heated seats, road sign assistance, Bluetooth, lovely sports coupe, 92,900 miles...................................................................................£8650
2017 (17) Ford KA+ 1.2 Zetec 5dr. 85bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, parking sensors, cruise control, hill hold, air con, Bluetooth, upto 56mpg economy, small exterior with a spacious interior, 76,900 miles ....................................£6450
2012 (62) Ford Ka 1.2 Studio 3dr. 69bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, £35 yearly tax, 50+mpg, simple car with basic spec, cambelt replaced, MOT Nov 2025, private sale on behalf of a customer, 73,500 miles .......................................£2950
2011 (60) Ford Ka 1.2 Grand Prix 3dr. Rare limited edition, unique, parking sensors, air con, Bluetooth, USB, £35 tax, 50mpg, cambelt kit replaced, only 74,500 miles............................................................£3500
2014 (14) Ford Kuga 2.0TDCi Titanium X AWD 4x4 SUV 5dr. 163bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, 4x4, high seats, leather, heated seats, heated screen, sat nav, park sensors, auto park, reverse camera, sunroof, auto lights & wipers, cruise, lane aid, sign recognition, hill hold, electric tailgate, cambelt replaced, 92,500 miles .........£7450
2014 (14) Ford EcoSport 1.5TDCi Titanium X Pack SUV 5dr. High seating, leather, X pack, parking sensors, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, Bluetooth, £35 tax, 60mpg, cambelt kit replaced, 87,800 miles..................................................................................£5450
2020 (69) Ford Tourneo Custom 2.0TDCi Titanium 320 L1 H1 Automatic 9 Seat Minibus 5dr. 130bhp, diesel, 6 speed automatic gearbox, 8 seat plus driver, reversable seats for conference or forward facing, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, heated front seats, park sensors, cambelt replaced, 97,000 miles ............£21500 + VAT = £25800
2020 (69) Ford Transit 2.0TDCi Trend 350 MWB MR L2 H2 11 Seat Minibus 5dr. 130bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, 10 seat plus driver, 2 front seats, 9 rear seats, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, heated front seats, hill hold, cambelt replaced, 90,200 miles.........................£19500 + VAT = £23400
2021 (21) Ford Puma 1.0T ST Line X MHEV 5dr. Self-charging petrol hybrid, 50mpg, partial leather, sat nav, parking sensors, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, main beam assist, collision detection, road sign assistance, Bluetooth, great size boot with meg box storage, 47,800 miles........£13250
2014 (64) Kia Venga 3, 1.6 Automatic (Sat Nav) 5dr. 123bhp, petrol, 4 speed automatic gearbox, high seating, decent boot, sat nav, parking sensors & reverse camera, electric sunroof, partial leather, heated seats, cruise control, sign recognition, hill hold, only 38,800 miles........................................................£7850
2011 (11) Ford C-Max 1.6T Titanium Nav 5 Seat MPV 5dr. High seating, big boot, sat nav, cruise control, auto
2016 (66) Mazda 3, 2.0 SE-L Nav Automatic 5dr. 120bhp, petrol, 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, sign recognition, heated seats, hill hold, 75,900 miles...................................£8450
2006 (06) Mercedes-Benz CLK200 1.8 Kompressor Sport Automatic Convertible 2dr. 163bhp, petrol, 5 speed auto gearbox, recent new roof & shocks absorbers, full history, 15 stamps, heated leather, electric roof, auto lights & wipers, cruise, park sensors, MOT June 25, private sale on behalf of a customer, 77,500 miles ...........................................................................................................£4250
2018 (68) Ford Kuga 2.0TDCi ST Line SUV 5dr. High seating, big boot, sat nav, Bluetooth, road sign assist, cruise, parking sensors & auto park, reverse camera, partial leather, auto lights & wipers, 61,800 miles.................................................................................£11750
2014 (14) Ford Transit 2.2TDCi 350 Trend 12 Seat Minibus 5dr. 3 front & 9 rear seats, removable seats, skylight, Bluetooth, standing head room, ideal day van or camper conversion, 75,500 miles................................................................£10500 + VAT = £12600
2015 (65) Peugeot 308 1.2THP Allure Automatic 5dr. 130bhp, petrol, 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, park sensors, reverse camera, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, hill hold, only £35 a year road tax, 50+mpg economy, cambelt has been replaced, 69,500 miles..............................................................DUE IN SOON
2019 (19) Renault Captur 1.5DCi Iconic Automatic SUV 5dr. 90bhp, diesel, 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, hill hold, high seating, sliding rear seats, upto 67mpg economy, 20,300 miles .........................................................................................................£12250
2017 (17) Vauxhall Astra 1.4 SRi 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, cruise control, pre-collision assist, sign recognition, hill hold, Bluetooth, 63,600 miles ..............................................£6950
2023 (73) Vauxhall Vivaro 2.0TD 3100 Pro L2 Van 6dr. Sat nav, reverse camera, cruise control, air con, twin side doors, ply lined, 21,300 miles, selling on behalf of a customer...............£18250 + VAT = £21900
2016 (66) Vauxhall Mokka 1.6CDTi SE 4x4 SUV 5dr. 136bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, 4 wheel drive, high seating, big boot, heated leather seats, heated steering wheel, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, hill hold, performance & economy, upto 60mpg, 65,500 miles ....................................£7250
2009 (58) Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.4 SZ5 4x4 Station Wagon 5dr. Tough dependable 4 wheel drive, high seating, big boot, heated leather, switchable 4-wheel drive, electric sunroof, cruise control, side steps, xenon lights, previous MOT advisories checked or rectified, only 85,500 miles........................................................Available soon £4650 WE BUY CARS & VANS SO IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING TO SELL GIVE US A CALL, WE PAY GOOD PRICES & CONSIDER MOST VEHICLES
New help to ring tills on county’s high streets
A business initiative has been launched in Dorset to help independent businesses thrive on the high street.
Dorset Chamber, the county’s leading business support organisation, is delivering the ‘Supporting our High Streets Business Growth’ programme.
It is open to all independent retailers, shop owners, leisure and hospitality businesses, those in tourism and the visitor economy and other town centre businesses in the Dorset and BCP councils areas.
The free, online programme includes a self-assessment ‘health check’ to benchmark business strengths and identify areas for improvement; insights from industry specialists and successful retailers; practical resources and nine workshops.
All sessions are from 6pm to 8pm to avoid clashing with opening hours.
Dorset Chamber chief executive Ian Girling, pictured right with Jeanette Walsh, said: “Independent retailers, leisure and hospitality businesses are the heartbeat of Dorset’s high streets.
“Rising costs, online competition and changing customer expectations are among the well-documented issues making it tough for businesses to stay strong and profitable.
“This new programme will equip them with
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vital tools and knowledge to stay competitive, strengthen their operations, improve their skills, boost sales, drive growth and unlock new opportunities.
“We urge those on the high street to seize this valuable opportunity to capitalise on some of the best support and advice available from experts in their field, so they can not only survive but thrive, grow and future proof their businesses.”
Dorset Chamber is delivering the programme for Business Growth Dorset, which is
managed by Dorset Council with core funding from the Department for Business & Trade. The sessions are:
l Effective Merchandising and Window Display, October 21
l Marketing: Strategies for Independent Retailers, November 4
l Business Planning, November 5
l Essential Finance Management Skills, January 22
l Digital Essentials for Small Businesses, January 29
l Excellence in Sales and Customer Service, February 5
l HR Legislation Update, February 26
l Legal Compliance and Security, March 5
l Developing Talent - Mentoring and Coaching, March 19
Attendees must be registered for the programme to be able to attend any of the sessions.
Business Improvement District (BID) managers and stakeholders are able to join in. Among the speakers sharing their insights and experience will be Jeannette Walsh, owner of Truly Scrumptious sweet shop on Poole High Street.
Visit dorsetchamber.co.uk/supportingour-high-streets-business-growthprogramme-2025/ to register.
to
Bournemouth Bach Choir
The Armed Man
