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WIMBORNE, FERNDOWN, RINGWOOD, CHRISTCHURCH and SURROUNDING AREAS WINTER Wellness

Beat the January Blues - Join Wimborne U3A today! A

s the new year begins, Wimborne u3a is inviting people to shake off the January blues and discover a world of friendship and learning. With nearly 500 members and around 60 dynamic groups, there’s still time to enrol and join any of the available classes. From philosophy to poetry, tai chi to table tennis, bridge to ballroom dancing, French or Italian language classes, plus a host of walking activities, Wimborne u3a offers something for everyone. For just £60 a year, members can sign up to as many courses and classes as they wish, subject to availability. New classes include ‘Sound of Surprise’ jazz appreciation, ‘iPads and Iphones don’t bite’ to help you get up to speed with your own communication technology - and ‘Politics – the long view’ – perfect for those who love a lively debate. Chairperson Ashley Rowlands said: “We don’t want people to be put off by the ‘University’ in our title. All our activities are for enjoyment: there’s no exams! u3a is an excellent and affordable way of following new interests and making new friends.” He added: “More than just an educational initiative, Wimborne u3a plays a vital role in supporting individuals who may feel socially

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isolated, fostering connections and friendships within the local community.” One table tennis member shared their experience: “I’m 74 and there aren’t so many places where you can play for so little cost. I went along after a hip replacement to build up my strength and co-ordination. It’s done me proud.” Founded in 2002, Wimborne u3a is an independent charity under the umbrella of the Third Age Trust, offering a wide range of learning and leisure activities for those no longer in fulltime employment. Ashley Rowlands summed it up: “Our ethos is Learn, Laugh, and Live – and we believe you’re never too old for that! You may be new to the area, perhaps no longer bringing up a family, newly retired or semi-retired and looking for a hobby. As the population in Wimborne grows, we’re keen to reach out to new residents and newcomers in our town. “Don’t let January pass you by – join Wimborne u3a today and start the year with new friends, new skills, and new adventures.” For more information and to enrol, visit www.wimborneu3a.org.uk

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2 New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026

What’s inside this issue... Antiques & Collectibles 12 Business 38-39 Events 28-31 Farming & Environment 26-27 Food & Drink 20 Health & Wellbeing 24-25 Home & Garden 22 Letters 8 Local Services 32-33 Motoring 36 Politics 15 n Blooming great p4 n Hounds sounds p9 n Lights fantastic p24 Puzzles 34-35 The last issue’s cover image was by Oak Photography Cover: Beech avenue, Wimborne Puzzle solutions 38 Sport 37 Winter Wellness 17-19 Lloyd Armishaw Steve Belasco

Meet the team

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Publisher newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net Tel: 01963 400186

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urged Illegal riders told ‘On your bike’ Patience over roadworks Nearly 230 illegal e-bikes and e-scooters were seized in Dorset last year, as police stepped up action against anti-social behaviour (ASB) and dangerous riding. Dorset Police confirmed 99 illegal e-bikes, including scramblers and Sur-Rons, and 128 illegal e-scooters were taken off the roads, marking the highest number of seizures the force has ever recorded. The crackdown came amid growing public concern about the impact of illegally-used electric vehicles on neighbourhood safety, particularly in Poole and North Bournemouth. In response, police launched a trial of SmartTag forensic spray earlier this year, following repeated reports of ASB. Rolled out in March, the spray marks riders with a unique forensic code, strengthening evidence and improving the chances of successful prosecutions. Dorset Police say the technology will now be extended to other parts of the conurbation and wider county. The initiative has attracted

ver Dmiosrceo…

national attention, with Dorset sharing its approach and data with seven other police forces and Bournemouth University as part of an evidence-led study into tackling electric vehicle misuse. Inspector Nick Lee of the Poole neighbourhood policing team, who led the rollout, said: “The impact of the anti-social use of these illegal electric vehicles in our communities is regularly raised as a concern and that is why we have taken robust and decisive action to combat the issue, yielding a record number of seizures. “I would like to reiterate that

if you are caught riding one of these vehicles illegally, it will be seized, crushed and recycled. “Their unlawful use in public areas puts pedestrians and other road users at risk.” Police say many riders are unaware they are breaking the law, including delivery drivers and young people. Inspector Lee urged buyers to check legality before purchasing and encouraged residents to report concerns. More information on the legal use of e-bikes and e-scooters is available on the Dorset Police website.

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Utility companies are gearing up for a series of roadworks in Christchurch aimed at upgrading local infrastructure and improving services for residents. BCP Council’s portfolio holder for highways maintenance Cllr Andy Hadley said: “We completely understand how frustrating roadworks can be for residents and commuters and the team have been liaising closely with the utility companies.” The council has recently proposed a Lane Rental Scheme across the busiest routes, which could cut disruption by up to a third. It works by incentivising companies to plan works more efficiently and carry out projects during off-peak periods. Despite the closures, the council reminds residents that shops and services will remain open. A public consultation on the proposals is open until February 1, before the council can seek government approval. Residents can also view details of the planned works including timings and the contractors involved. For more, visit one.network.

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4 New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026

Workshops raise blooming marvellous £22k Wimborne’s festive season began with generosity, creativity and community spirit as two sold-out Christmas wreath-making workshops at the Allendale Community Centre raised more than £2,200 to support the much-loved charity at the heart of the town. The workshops brought together more than 60 participants for fun, creativity and festive connection, all while helping the Allendale continue its mission of inclusivity, support, and belonging. The events were entirely sponsored by Poole & Wimborne Woodland Burial Ground, which provided all the natural materials, decorative items and tools. Leading both workshops was Karen Hill, burial

ground consultant and qualified florist, who gave her time, expertise and warm encouragement to guide participants through crafting their own beautiful natural wreaths. She said: “You could feel the joy in the room. “People came to create something lovely, but they also came to support a place

that genuinely matters. It was wonderful to be part of the event.” All funds raised will go directly to the Allendale Community Centre charity, helping it continue providing safe, welcoming and essential services to the community. The Allendale is a hub of belonging that tackles social

isolation and supports some of the most vulnerable people in the area. Vice-chairman Carole Chedgy said: “What we do here is about belonging. “This fundraiser helps us remain a place where everyone, regardless of age, ability or circumstance - can feel safe, supported and part of the community.”

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Hundreds attend fundraising singalong Wimborne’s Cornmarket was filled to capacity for the annual Carols In The Cornmarket event, writes Anthony Oliver. The singing was accompanied by Broadstone Community Concert Band and the Minster Choristers. The event was sponsored by Wimborne BID and Optique 2000, who paid for the printing of all the posters and handbills. Thanks were expressed to Radio Wimborne, Andrew Associates, Cornmarket Hairdresser, Minster verger Elton Barker and town crier Chris Brown for their support, and to the Cornmarket residents for allowing us to invade their privacy! A collection taken for Wimborne Minster funds and the mayor’s charities raised the splendid amount of £974.

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Let us hope that the weather will once again be favourable for an outside event next year when the date will be Friday, December 18, 2026.

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Villagers gather for social event More than 80 villagers from Holt celebrated Christmas with an event aimed at helping to bring the community together. The attendees enjoyed children’s activities, singing from Dene House Singers and a visit from Father Christmas and his elves. The event was jointly organised by the village and parish halls which are celebrating 140 years of service to the Parish of Holt. Bruce Grant-Braham

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Wimborne is the local ‘Town Of Culture’ 2026, an extraordinary celebration throughout the year that unites the community through arts, heritage and creativity. Building on a vibrant cultural hub, where historic charm meets contemporary creativity, organisers have revealed plans for new events and projects to reach more people. The initiative marks significant investment by the Arts Development Company, Dorset Council and Wimborne Minster Town Council A new youth festival and sculpture trail are among the things planned for the year. The Town Of Culture crown shines a spotlight on arts, culture, sports, recreation and leisure in Wimborne - and helps fuel more of it under the banner ‘The Culture Catalyst’ with a series of bold new projects that include: l Wimborne Culture Guide; a new digital platform will launch in April, providing a free events directory, shared branding and resources for event management, accessibility and environmental sustainability l New Culture Fund; micro-commissions will be available for artists, schools and community groups to deliver their own

Wimborne Town of Culture 2026 is led by the town council, which has appointed award-winning producer and project manager Emma Kerr under the theme ‘Bridging The Past And The Future’. Emma said: “Wimborne’s story began over a thousand years ago. “This year it’s being told in a new voice. From Roman roads to digital creativity, from folk festivals to contemporary performance, we’re celebrating what makes Wimborne special. “This is about connection - be it generational, geographical or cultural.” The town has produced notable talents including King Crimson guitarist Robert Fripp, who famously declared ‘Wimborne is the centre of the universe’ and ‘rock’n’roll’ town crier Chris Brown who has opened stages for acts like the Flaming Lips and the Polyphinic Spree. The programme is supported by cultural organisations including the Allendale Centre, East Dorset Heritage Trust, Museum of East Dorset, Millstream Theatre, Walford Mill, Wimborne Community Theatre, Wimborne Folk Festival, the Minster, National Trust: Kingston Lacy, Radio Wimborne and Wimborne Model Town & Gardens.

Wimborne gears up as Town of Culture 26

arts, heritage, sports and culture projects l UPLIFT Youth Arts Festival; made by young people for young people, it will bring new perspectives to the Wimborne events calendar l Eco-Heritage Sculpture Trail; in partnership with the River Allen Landscape Recovery project, a public art installation will be created by artists and schoolchildren using sustainable materials to celebrate the River Allen’s ecology and heritage

New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026 7

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8 New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026

Letters email: newsdesk@stourandavon.net

MP’s own party under Alors! Enjoy French festivities invested in our energy Chris Chope, Tory MP, complains (New Stour & Avon, Dec 12) about high energy costs under this government, strangely forgetting to point out that according to reports the annual energy bill paid by every family includes around £500 payment toward the shareholders who benefit from their holding in UK energy companies

- often owned by foreign companies. He also ignores the fact that 14 years of Tory governments failed to invest in our power distribution systems, with the energy generated by wind and solar sources simply unused and wasted because of lack of capacity. Roland Britain Bournemouth

Walking is good for the mind and heart. Just 15 minutes a day is better than lots of little strolls. Those who have lost confidence and find it difficult to get out, really could do with a befriender. Next time you wrap up and go for that stroll, have a pause for those who can’t get out. Could you become

a befriender and help others to keep physically, emotionally & mentally fit? We’d love to hear from you to give the gift of friendship back to someone who is lonely. Please visit hopenewforest. org or call 07936 495708. Laura Davy HOPe New Forest

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HOTEL TRAVEL VILLAS

All aboard! Tues 13th Jan

British Motor Museum...........................£45 (coach & entrance)

Weds 14th Jan Wells Cathedral Tour & Town Market........£38 (coach & entrance)

Thurs 15th Jan Bletchley Park...........................................£52 (coach & entrance)

Sat 17th Jan Bath....................................................................................................£26

Sun 18th Jan Gunwharf Quays..............................................................................£19

Mon 19th Jan

Royal Albert Hall Behind the Scenes Tour........£47 (coach & entrance)

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Sun 25th Jan Cirque du Soleil...................OVO £124 (coach & matinée ticket)

Weds 28th Jan Thames River Cruise & Battersea Power Station....£47 (coach & boat)

Fri 30th Jan Cirque du Soleil...................OVO £114 (coach & matinée ticket)

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A small group from Fordingbridge Twinning visited its twin town, Vimoutiers, in Normandy during the first weekend of December. The theme for the weekend was the Foire de la Pomme (Apple Festival). In the evening there were more than 300 guests, from the UK, Belgium, Germany, and of course from France itself. Members of Fordingbridge Twinning were also invited to the town of Chatelet, Belgium, at the same time next year, to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their Normandy Market which takes place every year in December.

The association will be there this year. Fordingbridge Twinning is now commencing preparation of its annual Murder-Mystery evening in February. The date will be February 28, so do please put that in your diaries. The evening will feature the so-called ‘Red-Rose Murders’, taking place in 1950s Hollywood. Tickets go on sale this month, so watch out! For further details do contact me on 01425 650770, or by email at Hippotrain@BTinternet. com. Derek Ayling Fordingbridge

The hard work and dedication of volunteers from West Parley Residents Association was recognised at West Parley Community Hub during a celebration of people who have supported the community throughout the year, as well as those who participated in the recent refurbishment. The Volunteer of the Year Award was given to association chairman John

Dinsdale for his unwavering dedication and outstanding contribution to the local community over many years. Recognition was also given to Anne and John Smith, for their wonderful planting displays around West Parley. To get involved, please visit the council website at westparley-pc.gov.uk/ volunteers. Linda Leeding West Parley

Hello there and happy new year to you all! Parley Garden Club’s programme for the next three months is as follows: On February 24 we have Jane Benson, founder of the Community Garden on providing fresh vegetables for the Wimborne Food Bank. On March 31 we have a talk entitled Chelsea Secrets - Behind The Scenes At

Chelsea, by Pip Bensley a senior judge and awardwinning floral designer with three gold medals. On April 28 we are holding our annual Spring Show. Please note, for any enquiries now please contact me on 07803 276251 or Jo on 01202 855232. Email powerpublications@ hotmail.com. Mike Power Parley

Recognition for our volunteers

New year crop of events

Your email comments are very welcome, however we cannot publish them anonymously and we reserve the right to edit them as deemed necessary

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Sounds for hounds The Verwood Choral Society’s Christmas concert raised £750 in aid of Helpful Hounds a local charity that helps to change the lives of young people by training assistance dogs. The dogs help those with mental health issues, Down Syndrome, Autism, physical disabilities and even help with medical emergencies. They are with the same person for eight to 10 years and each dog costs around £15,000 to train. This takes up to 2.5 years, so every penny donated will go towards this invaluable need. The concert consisted of a selection of Christmas music and was put together by director Ann Mayo. Not only was money raised for this worthwhile cause, but it was a thoroughly enjoyable evening for the audience.

New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026 9

Expert advice with a friendly face

If you are interested in meeting new people and helping raise some money for local charities why not join our choir? It is open to people of all ages (the youngest is 17) and there are no auditions, so you don’t need to pass any tests. If you would like further information, please contact me at annsmayo@yhaoo. co.uk. Ann Mayo

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10 New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026

Paddle do very nicely!

Each year Poole Harbour Canoe Club, along with its Wimborne-based Wimborne Paddlesport Group, holds a photographic competition at Christmas time. The entries, which friends and members are asked to judge, using a Youtube video to help with selection, come from the winners of a monthly competition held on Facebook. Selected images are also used for a calendar to promote the club and its many and varied activities. The stunning winners are pictured here. Visit youtu.be/XTy3yMopGm8?si=Nc3FyDUCwISQTeY. Clockwise, from top, Paul Sutton, silver award, Kim Pickering commended, Jeff Weston gold, Adrian Oates bronze, Max Wray commended, Andy Phipps commended. Bill Richmond

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New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026 11

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12 New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026

Free valuations every Friday at our Wimborne office

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SOLD FOR £51,000 For free verbal valuations please contact Head Office & Salesrooms: Station Road, Semley, Shaftesbury SP7 9AN 01202 842 900 www.semleyauctioneers.com Offices in Semley, Wiltshire; Wimborne, Dorset; and South Kensington, London

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Specialist Valuation Days in Sherborne Doulton, Beswick & other Ceramics 12th Jewellery, Watches & Silver 13th Coins, Medals, Militaria & Stamps 14th Pictures, Books & Maps 15th Model Cars, Trains, Dolls & Toys 16th

Cattle do very nicely for Beswick auction!

A collection of hundreds of Beswick animals is being sold by Charterhouse in an auction devoted to Beswick, Royal Doulton and Border Fine Arts on Tuesday, January 27. Richard Bromell of Charterhouse said: “The owner has been collecting Beswick for decades having started as a child. “As an adult she was a keen horse rider but her stables near Winchester have been empty for the past few years and with an imminent house move she contacted us to dispose of the collection.” In the collection, estimated to sell for tens of thousands of pounds, there is a vast selection of horses, ponies, cats, dogs, birds and cattle, along with many other animals. The owner was also an active member of the Beswick Collectors Club.

Classic Motorcycle Auction 12th March Classic Car Auction 26th March

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She regularly attended club meetings where she bought many of the rare figures which are today estimated from £50 to £3,000. Further entries are now being invited for this Charterhouse specialist auction of Beswick, Doulton & Border Fine Arts on Tuesday, January 27, followed by silver on Wednesday 28th, jewellery and watches on Thursday 29th and then antiques and interiors on Friday, January 30. 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. WANTED Books hardback, fountain pens, coins and stamps, costume jewellery. Cash paid. Telephone Mr Jones 01202 733550

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New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026 13

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Community theatre’s grant from village trust Wimborne Community Theatre was thrilled to receive a grant from Talbot Village Trust of £5,000. This will enable the group to begin the next stage in developing a community theatre production on the theme of ‘Home’ which will be performed in summer 2026 by WCT members and other local people of all ages. The group has already been asking local people Is Home a place or a feeling? and these ideas and thoughts will be reflected in the performances, as well as showing historical stories relating to Wimborne and surrounding area. Jeff Hart, chairman of the steering group, said: “Wimborne Community Theatre is very grateful for the grant. “This will enable us to develop our next project ‘Home’ which we have recently trialled with a small production on Wimborne Minster Green. “We have new members, a track record of more than 30 years and an ambition to mount our best production ever! “Wimborne is the 2026 Dorset

Town of Culture and we are hopeful ‘Home’ will be part of this exciting project.” Nicholas Ashley-Cooper, chairman of Talbot Village Trust, said: “We are delighted to provide funding that enables Wimborne Community Theatre to take the next step in developing this ambitious community-led production. “Their work plays an important role in giving local people a voice and creating shared cultural experiences. “We’re proud to support a project that brings creativity, heritage, and

community spirit together.” The group has been making community theatre in the landscape or in unusual non-

theatre spaces for more than 30 years. This next production will be directed by Dorset-based theatre director Rohan Gotobed and workshops will commence in early 2026. Recently joined member Saff Pab said: “I love how inclusive the group is, no matter your age, gender, health, anything, you are welcome in this group; it really gives a sense of community.” To find out more, take a short survey about Home or get involved, contact info@ wimbornecommunitytheatre. co.uk or visit wimborne communitytheatre.com.

Grown with love in Chettle visit www.theveglady.co.uk to sign up!

All residents with a DT, SP or BH postcode can visit Monkey World for half the usual entry price. Simply show proof of postcode on entry and then enjoy your day at the park!

Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre, Longthoms, Wareham, Dorset BH20 6HH www.monkeyworld.org Please Note: This offer is valid from 2nd-31st January 2026 only. Offer valid for both on line bookings & on the gate only. Proof must be shown on entry- ID/household bill. Excludes all School, Pre-School and Group bookings. (Monkey World reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time).

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14 New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026

Hospital charity group celebrates nine decades

Charity group the Friends of Victoria Hospital Wimborne is celebrating a major milestone after clocking up 90 years supporting hospital patients and staff, as well as the wider East Dorset community. Originally founded in 1887 as a cottage hospital, when it was funded by the generosity of local residents and philanthropists, Victoria Hospital - now run by Dorset HealthCare - is a key part of NHS services in Dorset, providing essential healthcare for thousands of people each year. The Friends group was established in 1935 to generate extra funds and enhance what could be offered at the Victoria Road site. Over the past 25 years alone, the group has funded

around 80 per cent of the hospital’s capital build projects, investing more than £8.7million to enhance and expand its facilities. This vital support has helped develop a wide range of services, including operating theatres, day surgery, endoscopy, physiotherapy and state-of-

the-art X-ray facilities. Most recently, the Friends bought the one-acre site of the former Wimborne Town FC ground next to the hospital. This important acquisition will allow for a bigger car park - due to open next year - and future expansion, as the need for local healthcare provision

continues to grow. Anne Salter, chairman of the Friends, said: “We work in support of and collaboration with the hospital, and we can reach those parts NHS budgets cannot meet. “The Friends have always been about people volunteers, donors, staff, and patients - working together to make a real difference.” To celebrate its landmark anniversary, the Friends group has produced a short film showcasing its ongoing partnership with the NHS and Victoria Hospital. The film offers a fascinating insight into how this collaboration continues to deliver high-quality care for local people - today and into the future. Watch the film at: Vimeo Friends of Victoria Hospital Wimborne 90th Anniversary.

Young bookworms starting new chapter Schoolchildren in Parley are benefiting from the vast experience of care home residents who visit to hear them read. Residents living at Fairlawn Care Home in Ferndown attend Parley First School for a monthly ‘book club’. The children pick a book and read aloud to the visitors from the home, run by not-for-profit charity Care South, who listen and help them with words they don’t know. Deputy headteacher Julia Martin said: “The relationship with Fairlawn care home is quite new and when staff asked residents what they wanted to do, some said they’d love to do a monthly book club.

“We believe in a multi-generational community and we work with a number of local care homes. “The book club is monthly and the children really look forward to it and reading to the care home’s residents. “The residents also tell them stories about their lives and everyone gets a lot out of it. “Immersing the children in literature really benefits them through their lives. “We live in a manic, digital world and the book club is a place where things slow down and children can benefit from one-to-one or one-to-two attention. “And we were delighted when the

residents and staff from Fairlawn presented us with some new books.” Books read by the children to Fairlawn residents include Mr Men: The Night Before Christmas by Roger Hargreaves, Funnybones by Janet and Allan Ahlberg, and Love You More by Hanna Greene. Tina Vincent, home manager at Fairlawn, said: “It’s wonderful to see our residents’ faces light up as the children read some of their favourite books to them. “It reminds them of time spent with their own families in years gone by and gives them the chance to share the joy of story time with younger readers.”

New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026 15

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Political round-up

Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher

We must all be resolute in the coming year I do hope Christmas and New Year brought you comfort! My parliamentary contacts across the political spectrum had well-deserved time off with their family and friends over Christmas, but I am also aware that emergency casework continued for them and their staff and I take this opportunity to recognise the work they put in on all our behalves. Respite from diplomatic incident was short lived however and, as of submission, our Prime Minister has yet again taken a measured, consultative and collaborative approach to international affairs. When in government, there’s a lot more to consider; rushed statements and unfunded policy announcement in opposition, released on social media, is a luxury a government in power does not have. Parliament resumed this week, with its ability to be flexible and allow for emergency

debate in full force - talk about UK MPs hitting the parliamentary ground running after recess - yet again! When new legislation is required to make big changes to improve the NHS, the cost of living, raise living standards, kick-start investment and build social and affordable housing, the wheels of Parliament move relatively slowly compared to when you want to make big changes in a private company, or even a charitable organisation. Progressive legislation like the Workers’ Rights Bill and the Water (Special Measures) Act, introduced by the Labour government through the King’s Speech 2024 and 2025, were passed and put into action, as quickly as the Parliamentary programme would allow. There have been many hours spent in the chamber debating Bills that we as the public see, and even more hours in scrutiny committees, that we do

My sincere hope for 2026 is that the Government improves its performance for the good of our nation. Nobody wants their country to fail. It is so depressing to see our economy shrinking, unemployment rising and the burden of taxation at record levels. Even the ability to defend ourselves against external threats is being questioned. Why, therefore, did the Budget give priority to higher spending on welfare rather than defence? The Prime Minister accepted the conclusions of the Defence Review calling for stronger national security but, so far, his words have not been matched with actions. Delivery is fundamental to good politics. It is debilitating to witness the continuing failure of the Government to reverse the rising tide of illegal immigration and asylum seeking. Out of the blue Keir Starmer announced that digital identity documents (IDs) were

the solution. That extraordinary proposal has since been attacked and ridiculed across the political spectrum. Matters came to a head on December 8 when Parliament debated the petition against digital IDs signed by more than three million people. It was standing room only as one MP after another attacked and questioned the hapless Government Minister tasked with answering the three-hour debate. Answers came there none. If the Prime Minister’s plan had been to use the threat of digital IDs as a distraction from the failure of his immigration policies, it manifestly failed. I have long said that we will never be able to regain control over the laws governing our border security until we leave the European Convention on Human Rights. The Government’s response of seeking reform rather than repeal cannot succeed. Other countries signed up

Dorset Labour CANDICE JOHNSON-COLE not get to see on a daily basis; a huge amount of work is being done by MPs and officials from all political parties and the Houses of Parliament staff. We are just over 18 months into a Labour government - 18 months! The amount of new legislation, spending commitments and

initiatives to help pensioners, parents, veterans, serving armed forces, those who pay prescription charges, renters and workers, to name just a few, are already in place and beginning to reverse a tide of previous decline and underinvestment. A record £78billion is going to our councils this year alone, to cut deprivation! After 18 months of a Labour government, those benefitting from Labour policies are feeling the benefit - they’re on the minimum wage, using free breakfast clubs and childcare, have an increased state pension and paying less interest on mortgages, loans and credit cards. You may not hear their voices often in the media and on social media, but they’re out there - I speak to them daily, when volunteering and when out canvassing. In 2026, I’ll be encouraging them all to ‘Speak Out’!

Why spend more on welfare than defence?

Conservative Christchurch & East Dorset CHRIS CHOPE MP to the European Convention refuse to alter it or even allow reinterpretation of some of its key provisions. Among these is Article 3 which outlaws ‘torture or inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment’. The Courts have now extended the interpretation of those clear

words to include the possibility that someone threatened with deportation cannot be deported for a serious crime because they might face inferior conditions in a prison in their home country compared with in the UK. How ridiculous! n Recent local visits have included one to Eco Sustainable Solutions. Based in Parley, they are pioneers in delivering environmentally-sustainable solutions. Construction work is well advanced to enable their methane gas production from food waste to be put into the national gas grid. Investing in such innovation, of which this is an outstanding example, must be fundamental to our future economic growth. Another firm which I frequently visit is ReidSteel, the largest private sector employer in Christchurch. Many congratulations to Simon Boyd, its managing director, on his well-deserved award of OBE in the New Years Honours.

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

16 New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026

Steamy start to station’s seasonal celebrations It was a day of firsts when Santa arrived at Shillingstone Station on board a newly-refurbished steam locomotive. It was the first official duty of the engine - a socalled ‘Yankee Tank’ - after completing a restoration programme which took nearly 10 years. Loco 30075, built in 1960 in what was then Yugoslavia, to a war-time US Army design, had been in service on many heritage railways after it arrived in pieces in the UK in 1990. It belongs to a group of enthusiasts, Project

62, currently based at Shillingstone Station, where it arrived in need of a complete overhaul. While a live band of volunteers played music for the visitors, and Mr and Mrs Santa greeted children in their grotto, the loco shunted

its fellow unrestored Yankee Tank onto a siding where volunteers can more easily work on it. Though both engines arrived at Shillingstone in January 2016, it’s the first time they’ve connected, and it was very much a ‘before

and after’ image. And, to the delight of visitors, trailway users and surprised passing motorists alike, 30075 rolled onto Lamb House Bridge, the first time a steam loco went across the bridge since the line was closed in March 1966. The bridge is part of a new extension which has taken North Dorset Railway four years to build, and tracklaying was only completed this summer. Shillingstone Station is open on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, between 10am and 4pm.

proposed council tax rises of more than 7%. The council is legally capped at a maximum increase of 4.99% without triggering a local referendum. Feedback from the challenge has been shared with councillors ahead of budget proposals for 2026/27, which are due to be published early this year. A follow-up survey

found that nearly 60% of participants felt they had a better understanding of how the council’s finances work after completing the challenge. On the back of that response, the council has reopened the simulator so more residents can take part. Cabinet member for finance and capital strategy Cllr Simon Clifford said the results underlined the tough choices he and colleagues face. He thanked residents for getting involved and encouraged others to try the tool, describing it as a simple way to see where council tax money goes.

Residents propose council tax rises of 7% Balancing a multi-millionpound council budget is rarely straightforward and hundreds of Dorset residents have had the chance to find out for themselves. More than 700 people stepped into the shoes of councillors by taking part in Dorset Council’s online Budget Challenge - an interactive simulator designed to show the difficulties in closing a significant funding gap while protecting essential services. In total, 745 residents adjusted spending across key areas while also deciding how much council tax should rise. Most participants made

only small adjustments to everyday services with waste budgets cut by less than 1% on average and highways seeing a modest increase. To balance the books, many opted to reduce spending on adult social care - the council’s biggest area of expenditure - as well as corporate services. On average, participants

New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026 17

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WINTER Wellness

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The Conservative Club Fridays 8:30am & 10am Lucy 07749 983274

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Pinehurst Community Church 90 Pinehurst Road Wednesdays 3:30pm, 5:30pm & 7pm Thursdays 9am & 10:30am Karen 07795 820310

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St Michaels Church Centre Colehill Lane Thursday 6pm Saturday 7:30am & 9am Karen 07957 234839

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Corn Exchange Wednesdays 8:30am, 10am, 11:30am, 5:30pm & 7pm Tracey 07776 309982

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Christ Church, Northmead Drive Tuesdays 5:30pm & 7pm Sue 07561 530220

Methodist Church, The Close Thursdays 5:30pm & 7:30pm Tracey 07776 309982

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Canford Heath Community Centre Mitchell Road Monday 5.30pm & 7pm Wednesday 9am & 10:30am Sue 07561 530220

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Ferndown Royal British Legion Church Road Fridays 9am & 10:30am Sophie 07818 506511

CASTLEPOINT

St Edmund Campion Church Thursdays 5:30pm & 7:00pm Belinda 07971 356743

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St Edmund Campion Church Thursdays 9:00am & 10.30am Debbie 07931 480464

ST LEONARDS & ST IVES St Leonards & St Ives Ex Services Club, 12 School Lane Mondays 6pm & 7:30pm Sophie 07818 506511

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Twynham Church 99 Barrack Road Saturdays 8am & 9.30am Fran 07720 868526

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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 & 7pm Debbie 07931 480464

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Verwood Methodist Church Hall Vicarage Rd Thursdays 6pm Debbie 07931 480464

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Howe Croft Community Centre Thursdays 5:30pm & 7pm Alana 07896 197485

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18 New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026

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WINTER Wellness

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20 New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026

Food & Drink

Cooking... Easy plum pudding This year, despite not being a gardener, Martin has had a bumper crop of plums! We have to thank the people who lived here before, as it is their tree. Last year, there were hardly any ripe ones as the squirrels got there before us, but this year, although we have a squirrel family living in the trees, we have bumper harvest. But what to do with a surplus of plums? In our last property, we had elderflower bushes; Martin used to collect the berries while I was at work and I’d come home, ready for a peaceful evening, to find that I had all these branches to strip and jam to make!! So, I’ve made some plum jam and plum chutney, (recipes to follow shortly!) I was looking for healthy recipes and found this one. It is so simple and yet really tasty. My only comment was that it could have done with some more maple syrup or honey as

some of the plums were a bit tart. The race is on now, to get the rest of the plums before the squirrels do! I’ve said that I’ll make and freeze some crumbles, as Martin likes them as a winter pudding. I’ll make this pudding again. (I bet you thought I was going to make some sort of plum duff pudding!) Instead of using orange juice from the fruit, I used a can of orange juice. I should have checked that it was 100% orange but it wasn’t and that may have affected the sauce. I used low-fat crème fraiche to go with it as I’m finding that it’s a very good substitute for cream and not as fattening! Star anise is not something I’ve used before, like most people, I’ve had them in the cupboard for ages but never knew what to do with them. I hope they don’t go off!

with Martha Legg Method Heat oven to 180C/fan 160C/ gas 4. Arrange the plums in a single layer in a 1-litre gratin dish. Pour over orange juice, tuck star anise among the plums, drizzle over the maple syrup, then gently stir. Bake for 30-35 mins until the fruit is soft but not collapsed. Serve warm or cold with mascarpone or yogurt on the side. The roasted plums can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Ingredients 700g plum, de-stoned and chopped in half juice of 2 large oranges 3 star anise 3-4 tbsp maple syrup Low fat yogurt or crème fraiche to serve.

n Apologies for a glitch in the recent recipe for Mum’s fruitcake! This was missed off the end: Melt butter in a saucepan. Add sugar, dried fruit, orange zest/juice, and spices. Simmer 5 mins, stirring. Let cool 10 mins. Beat in the eggs. You can also add a couple of teaspoons of sherry or brandy.

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Salamander begins the New Year with our January sale & clearance table which runs until January 18. We have great winters offers from top brands and up to 50% off items on the clearance table. January is also a great time to review your cookware and look at items that might be worth replacing or treating yourself to a utensil or item that you hoped you might have been a Christmas gift! We ended 2025 with some superb events including our preXmas food walks and in-store events. The fully-subscribed evening events visited Fluffetts, East Street Deli, Majestic Wine, and Thirsty Bird. The first enjoyed a taste of Flaming Peaches’ special burger with camembert and chorizo and their superb rosemary and parmesan fries! Sign up to our newsletter to be the first to hear about future events, recipe ideas, new products and prize draws in-store or at salamander.cookshop.com. Recipe of the month is butternut squash soup; January is a

wonderful time to explore homemade soups which are all easy to make, healthy and excellent value. We have everything you need, including large simple jugs and economical stick blenders, power blenders which have many other uses, and all-in-one soup makers which combine a heater and blender. Butternut soup can easily be enhanced with a little extra spicing. For up to six portions simply chop a medium onion and about 1kg of butternut squash (peeled, cubed and deseeded). Fry squash and onion in a pan until the onions soften; add a litre of vegetable stock and two tablespoons of cream or non-dairy alternative. Season with salt, black pepper, and add two teaspoons of Ras al Hanout, (cumin, coriander, ginger and cardamon) or your preferred spices; simmer until squash is cooked; put into a jug and blend until smooth. Eat or store in the fridge and reheat when needed. Other recipes are on the website.

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New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026 21

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22 New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026

Home & Garden

County gardens open for charity - February

New Snowdrop Opening 10 RYAN CLOSE, Ferndown, BH22 9TP. Mrs Jane Norris. Fri 6, Sat 7, Sun 8, Fri 13, Sat 14, Sun 15 Feb (11-3). Adm £5.

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in baskets. Snowdrop talks during day. Snowdrops for sale. Hellebores for sale on Sun 8 Feb only. New Hellebore opening MANOR FARM, HAMPRESTON, Wimborne, BH21 7LX. Guy & Anne Trehane. Sat 28 Feb (10-1), Sun 1 Mar (1-4). Light refreshments. Adm £7, chd free. Traditional farmhouse garden designed and cared for by three generations of the Trehane family for more than 100 years. Garden is noted for its herbaceous borders and rose beds within box and yew hedges. Mature shrubbery, water and bog garden. Excellent plants as usual for sale at openings inc hellebores in March. The garden is due to be featured in June edition of the English Garden Magazine. Existing Snowdrop Opening THE OLD VICARAGE East Orchard, Shaftesbury SP7 0BA. Miss Tina Wright, 01747 811744. Parking is on the opp corner towards Hartgrove. Car park

will be open from around 1pm to 1.30pm for opening at 2pm. Fri 13, Sun 15 Feb,. Adm £5, chd free. Home-made teas in garden with lots of places to shelter if it is wet. Visits also by arrangement 5 Jan to 20 Dec. 1.7-acre established garden and wildlife garden, with hundreds of different snowdrops, crocus and many other bulbs and winter flowering shrubs. A stream meanders down to a pond and there are lovely reflections in the swimming pond, the first to be built in Dorset. The wildlife garden has been planted with several unusual trees. Plus a 1.3-acre field under development but almost completed. Special features inc grotto, old Victorian man pushing his lawn mower (which his owner purchased brand new in 1866). Pond dipping, swing and other children’s attractions. Cakes inc gluten free, and vegans are also catered for. Not suitable for wheelchairs if very wet. Tickets can be purchased on the day or in advance via www.ngs. org.uk.

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24 New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026

Health & Wellbeing

Nicki Edwards: The Cambridge Lady www.one2onediet.com/NickiE

07904 331589

Residents tripping the lights fantastic Staff and residents at Parley Place Care Home got in the Christmas spirit by inviting the community to join in with their ever-popular lights switchon where it has become a tradition for a visit from Bournemouth Youth Marching Band. This year 60 band members from eight years old upwards entertained the residents and provided some Christmas cheer. Residents joined in by singing along to the tunes and the band even let one conduct the final song of the evening. Members of the band then chatted with the residents. There was mulled wine, hot chocolate, n And it was out with old and in with the new as staff and residents celebrated bringing in the New Year in style with a musical party. Parley Place Care Home’s New Year’s Eve party was in full swing with musical entertainment by the fabulous duo, Serenade. Mark on keyboard and Tracey on vocals gave a stellar performance and got everyone up and dancing. Mark also treated them to a music quiz with prizes. Residents enjoyed glasses of fizz and festive treats prepared by head chef, Kris Groom. General manager, Gina Smith, said: “Our residents

and plenty of festive treats, all prepared by head chef Kris to keep everyone warm. The tree and lights looked ‘amazing’ when the home’s general manager flicked the switch for the big reveal. General manager Gina Smith said: “We absolutely love Christmas here; it’s such a special time and we all love decorating the home and having a lovely big tree. “This is possibly the biggest we’ve ever had but then it is Christmas so you have to go over the top!” Resident Jan added: “The whole evening was amazing - the band, the lights, they even sung happy birthday to

love a party and New Year’s Eve has to be the best reason. “We’re all really excited to see what 2026 has to offer us all.” Jan, a resident at Parley

me which was really special. “The members of the band took time to talk with us as well and they have such interesting stories about how they got started and the academy, it was truly fascinating.”

Place, said: “It was lots of fun to join in the party and mark the start of 2026 - I love the excitement of New Year!” Gina added: “Our varied life enrichment programme

keeps residents active, and provides a daily choice of engaging physical, mental and spiritual activities tailored to residents’ interests and abilities.”

New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026 25

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Health & Wellbeing

Nicki Edwards: The Cambridge Lady www.one2onediet.com/NickiE

07904 331589

event produces Bringing joy to care home Test early prostate alerts

Toddlers from Tops Day Nursery visited the residents at Hyacinth House Care Home in Wimborne. The children arrived loaded down with plants and bouquets of flowers as gifts for the residents along with hand-made cards. They had been working on these on the run-up to the visit and were very proud of their work. The residents and toddlers played games together in one of the home’s lounges and enjoyed snacks and drinks too. Hyacinth House general manager Kamila Gagala said: “We seek opportunities for continued community involvement for our residents and were delighted

to host the delightful children from our local nursery. “The children bought joy and excitement along with them and really brightened up our day.

“We all know the benefits of intergenerational interaction and it was clear to see from all the smiles that both groups got enormous pleasure from the morning’s visit.”

A community health event hosted by Wimborne & Ferndown Lions Club has helped 64 local men take vital action on their health, thanks to a free prostate cancer screening day held at the Barrington Centre. A total of 227 men attended, receiving a quick and simple PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test to check for early signs of prostate cancer - the most common cancer in men in the UK. The results showed: 20% of attendees received a red, high-risk result letter 8% were issued an amber, borderline warning. In total, 64 men were advised to seek guidance from their GP, an early alert that could lead to life-saving treatment. Another free screening day will take place in March 2026. Further details will be announced on Rotary’s Facebook page soon.

Volunteers scoop garden gold for third year Forest Holme Hospice was delighted to scoop the Gold prize in the Loving Care Homes category at the Poole in Bloom awards for the third year running. Poole In Bloom has now been running for several years, with its main event being the awards ceremony held annually at Compton Acres, and this year Forest Holme Hospice’s volunteer gardeners were again presented with a plaque and certificate in recognition of their hard work in maintaining the hospice gardens all year round.

The talented team also brought home two Bronze Awards in the Sensory Garden and Hanging Baskets &

Containers categories awarded by Poole In Bloom secretary and judge Jason Edwards. Heidi Haagensen, volunteer manager at Forest Holme, said: “This incredible recognition is all thanks to our dedicated volunteer gardeners who lovingly care for every corner of our gardens, from the peaceful sensory courtyard that our patients’ rooms overlook, to the tranquil rear garden and the beautiful wildlife garden along the side of the hospice.”

Meet-ups to keep you connected this New Year The friendship group Bournemouth Oddfellows is encouraging adults across the area to stay socially connected by joining a programme of free activities in the New Year. The initiative features a mix of online social events - all free and open to the public, not just members. The aim is to help people stay in contact, form new friendships, and enjoy companionship at what can be a difficult and sometimes isolating time of year. Activities, hosted on Zoom,

include quizzes, games, informative talks and relaxed social chats. The friendship group, which has around 180 local members, meets regularly in and around Tuckton. Newcomers are welcome to attend any upcoming meetups, including: • Lunch at the Cranleigh, Thursday, January 22. • Coffee at Tuckton, Thursday, February 5, 10.30am at Tuckton Social Club. Residents can also request a printed local events diary,

which the branch can post out on request. Anyone interested in trying the group is encouraged to get in touch to find out more. Branch secretary/social organiser Wendy Hopper said: “We want people in the local area to know they don’t need to feel cut off or on their own - there are friendly faces and regular opportunities to connect through our group. “All our events - both online and in person - are open for anyone to try. They’re relaxed, informal and designed to

help people feel part of a community. “We encourage anyone who’d like details of what’s happening to get in touch. ” The Oddfellows, a notfor-profit with 96 branches across the UK, is one of the UK’s oldest and largest friendly societies and supports friendship and community connection for folk of all ages. Contact Wendy Hopper at wendy.hopper@oddfellows. co.uk or 07921 391696. All events can also be found at www.oddfellows.co.uk/events.

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

26 New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026

Farming & Environment

I would like to use this article to talk about the role of our Volunteers at the Farm, without which we would not be able to function. We have around 50 Volunteers on our books, all of whom give up their time to support the staff and work alongside our co-farmers to enable them to undertake the tasks on the farm. The Farm shop is manned completely by Volunteers which is an amazing feat - and then we have Volunteers who run craft, crochet and music therapy sessions alongside the Volunteers who work in the yard, horticulture and animals. We are very lucky to have Volunteers from a huge crosssection of life and their skills and knowledge further enhance what opportunities we can offer here at the farm. Here are some testimonials from some of our Volunteers: ‘Mark and the team have created a special place at High Mead Farm. The peaceful setting and focus on well-being

means that volunteering here is both fun and rewarding. ‘No day is the same, always lots to do and the variety of tasks has meant that I have learned new skills. I’ve made new friends and had fun, all whilst working hard and feeling part of something that genuinely makes a difference. That’s why I love volunteering here - thank you High Mead.’ ‘Although I’m new to the Farm, it has felt so welcoming right from the start. Everyone is friendly and helpful. The animals are fun with such unique character. ‘There are many other parts of the Farm to get involved with, which I have enjoyed doing. I find I am more relaxed on the Farm and smile a lot more. Thanks for allowing me to be part of the team’. ‘I’ve been a Volunteer for a number of years and that speaks for itself. I’ve always loved helping there, be it with the animals, plants, crafts, events/

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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 outings, cooking or working in the Farm Shop. ‘I enjoy working with and supporting the amazing cofarmers, other Volunteers and staff. ‘High Mead is such an accepting place, where everyone is made to feel welcome and valued, whilst there is no pressure to ‘achieve’. ‘It’s rewarding to be part of a supportive community, and I hope it continues to evolve and thrive as it helps so many people (and animals)!’ ‘I worked for 35 years in homecare and social services hospital discharge team safeguarding and dementia champion. ‘A year after retirement I felt I needed to get out into the world again. I’m not sure if I found High Mead, or if High Mead found me - I’ve been here over two years and have never looked back - I support staff and co-

farmers to provide fresh produce for the Farm Shop. ‘No two days are the same; one minute you can been harvesting tomatoes, the next chasing alpacas out of the vegetable garden! ‘Thanks High Mead for being there when I needed you. ‘After a lifelong career as an engineer, an apprenticeship service in the Royal Navy and 30 years as an insurance inspector, I retired and discovered High Mead Farm. ‘The Farm’s motto is “a chance to grow”. I’ve been a Volunteer for over four years and been given the role of Lead Volunteer. ‘I am primarily the maintenance man and part of a loyal team of Volunteers, who, along with dedicated staff, ensure the smooth operation of the farm in supporting the Co-Farmers. ‘I’m proud to be part of High Mead Farm and grateful to have the “chance to grow”.’

New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026 27

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Farming & Environment

Strategy aims to reverse nature declines

A new approach to nature recovery is being implemented in Dorset to help restore and protect natural environment over the next decade. The Dorset Local Nature Recovery Strategy maps out actions to reverse declines in nature and will guide planning, land management, climate resilience and public health. The strategy aims to meet the national goal of protecting or managing 30% of land, rivers and

seas for nature by 2030, setting out 13 priorities. These include restoring grasslands, woodlands, hedgerows and heathlands through better planting, and improving rivers, lakes and wetlands such as Dorset’s rare chalk streams. Other concerns involve protecting coastal areas, creating space for natural habitats to recover and enhancing urban green spaces. Developed by Dorset Council, in partnership with

BCP Council and Natural England, the strategy reflects the views of farmers, communities and environmental experts. Leader of Dorset Council Cllr Nick Ireland said: “Dorset’s natural environment is one of our greatest assets, but over time it has been weakened. “Nature matters to everyone in Dorset and this strategy turns ambition into action. “We can create cleaner rivers, thriving woodlands

and protect our habitats and species.” The strategy contains actions to safeguard 55 high priority wildlife species and reinstate natural processes like floodplain reconnection and peatland restoration. Residents can join Nature Recovery Dorset and record their own actions or read about what others are doing to get ideas. People can read more atdorsetcouncil.gov.uk/ dorset-s-local-naturerecovery-strategy.

Looking forwards to another busy year

Contiued from last issue We recently met with Reading University who described the results from climate monitoring work within local cattle housing. The collecting yard stood out as an area that we should focus on more to help prevent further day time heating of our cows. The Reading teams projections for a heat wave in 2080 were, as you can imagine, bleak, however there are many new ideas being developed for both passive and active cooling, such as earth air tunnels, which passively (and cheaply!) cool the air before it enters cattle housing. One of the benefits of the dry summer was that the gut and lung worm larvae hid below the pats and in the top soil, easing us into a false sense of security during the summer months. The late summer rain soon brought them all back to the surface and worm egg count results have never been so high! I diagnosed my first suspected case of resistance to Ivermectin wormer in heifers this autumn, adding to a couple of cases seen by the team in the 2024 grazing season in cattle. Please do get in touch to review your parasite management and don’t assume that it is only sheep flocks who need to alter their grazing management! It is a really engaging topic, requiring us all to think differently and ultimately saving time and money by maximising

herd immunity and reducing our reliance on wormers! It is as relevant for dairy herds and sheep flocks as it is the beef rearer or suckler farm. One of our aims over the past few years has been to try and utilise our entire team’s knowledge on farm, recognising that we have a critical mass of clinicians and techs which has allowed us to develop special areas of expertise, whilst remaining small enough to be a truly connected team. Historically, some vets and vet practices have been very protective of ‘their own’ farms, limiting the opportunities to

incorporate others’ ideas on farm. I have watched with great pride this year as the team have actively engaged other FMLH vets and techs on their regular farms, bringing in new ways of thinking and expertise, bouncing off one another to create really useful solutions to create change on farm. As the final touches are completed in the new HQ, we look forward to making this and all our satellite branches an even more useful space for all our clients in 2026. Helen Rogers, Vet & Director Director – VetMB MA MRCVS DBR

Your local independent vets. Veterinary services for livestock in Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire. 01258 472314 friarsmoorlivestockhealth.co.uk farmoffice@friarsmoorlivestockhealth.co.uk friarsmoorlivestockhealth

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

28 New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026

Events

Concert raises over £1600 for cancer charity Colehill Community Choir’s Christmas concert raised £1,620 for the PLANETS cancer charity in memory of choir member Margaret Stevens. This was down to all the people that supported the concert in a packed St. Michael’s Church, Colehill, on Saturday, December 13. Joanne Green of PLANETS, said: “That is incredible, thank you so much”. It was a fitting end to a really happy and joyful evening celebrating the festive season. PLANETS is a small charity working closely with University Hospital, Southampton and supports research into very complex cancers and their treatments.

Show to be a winter warmer St Mary’s Church, Sturminster Marshall, is delighted to be hosting a concert by Vivamente Voices on Sunday, February 1, at

ocal When l sses e n i s u b

SUCCE

ities

un Comm

THRIVE

Overall, three in five (61% 61%) consumers say they are now more likely to spend money at a business that is independent or local to their area, and 44% are more likely to spend money at a business that has supported local charities, such as food banks. More than one-third (35%) say they started using more local stores and services to support their community during the pandemic.*

*Source Deloitte

50,000

READERS PER ISSUE*

*Based on a conservative prediction of 2.5 readers per copy

01963 400186

2.30pm, in aid of its ‘Project Welcome’ initiative. Vivamente Voices is a vibrant community choir from in Wimborne in Dorset. They rehearse regularly throughout the year, performing in a number of concerts, community events and festivals, under the talented direction of Sheila Dursley. Their repertoire is varied and includes classic and contemporary pop, songs from the musicals and a little gospel. A choir with a big heart, Vivamente Voices have donated more than £15,000 to local good causes in recent years. Whether in rehearsals, workshops, day trips or weekend tours, the choir have a great deal of fun in sharing their love of singing with each other and their audiences. The concert will be vibrant and fun, with plenty of familiar, much-loved songs! Vivamente Voices are sure to cheer up a cold or dreary winter afternoon, so please do come along, to brighten up your day!

The vision for Project Welcome, is to widen the use of St Mary’s Church, to provide our community with a flexible and accessible venue, which may be used by groups seeking a meeting space and for events, talks and get togethers organised by St Mary’s. We aim to offer a community hub for everyone in the village. To achieve this, building work will be undertaken to install an accessible WC, a kitchen servery and an upgraded path. We have already started up a new community event, ‘Refresh’, from 9.30am10.30am each Tuesday morning, where people, young and old, are invited to join us for coffee/tea and a chat. Please do come along to the concert. Entry is free and there will be tea and cake at the interval. There will be a retiring collection. There is limited parking available in the Old School car park opposite the Church, adjacent to the Red Lion.

New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026 29

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Events

It’s all been happening in very vocal Verwood!

Wendi’s performance is Glorious EastEnders star Matthew James Morrison will join Wendi Peters in the 20th anniversary UK tour of the hit West End comedy Glorious! at Lighthouse Poole. After more than three years in EastEnders, Matthew will be joining Wendi as Cosme McMoon. Glorious! is the true story of American socialite Florence Foster Jenkins, dubbed ‘the worst singer in the world’, who staged and starred in classical recitals in major venues including Carnegie Hall. Mocked for her flamboyant performance costumes and poor, off-key singing, she nonetheless became a cultfigure in New York City during the 1920s, 1930s and 1940s and celebrated composer and songwriter Cole Porter and classical conductor Sir Thomas Beecham were among her dearest celebrity fans. Glorious! follows Florence’s journey as she prepares for her biggest ever sold-out recital at New York’s prestigious Carnegie Hall, building an unlikely friendship with her accompanist, Cosme McMoon, and defying her army of critics to follow her dreams. The Olivier-nominated

comedy is by Peter Quilter, whose play End Of The Rainbow became the hit movie, Judy, starring Renée Zellweger - her performance as Judy Garland winning her the Academy Award for Best Actress, as well as the Golden Globe Award, SAG Award, Bafta Award and Critics’ Choice Movie Award. Stage and screen star Wendi Peters is best known for her long-running role as Cilla Battersby in the hit ITV soap Coronation Street and, most recently, was a regular on the BBC show Doctors as Nina Bulsara. Her many other TV credits include Midsomer Murders, Hetty Feather, Hacker Time and Sadie J. Wendi has also competed on various shows including

Soapstar Superstar, Celebrity Mastermind, Celebrity Masterchef and Celebrity Sewing Bee For Children in Need, which she won. Wendi was most recently seen as Mother Superior in the UK tour of Sister Act. Her other theatre credits include: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow (UK tour), You Are Here (Southwark Playhouse), BIG The Musical (West End), The Game (Northern Broadsides) and White Christmas (West End, Festival Theatre, Edinburgh, The Lowry, Salford). The cast also features West End leading ladies Caroline Gruber (Leopoldstadt and Agatha Christie’s Witness for the Prosecution, London County Hall, 2000 Years - National Theatre) as Florence’s long-suffering maid, Maria and society busybody Mrs VerrinderGedge; and Sioned Jones (Thirteen, Women Beware Women, All’s Well That Ends Well - all National Theatre) as Florence’s best friend and biggest fan, Dorothy. lTuesday-Saturday, February 10-14, 7.45pm. Matinees Wed, Thu, Sat, 2.30pm. Tickets and information 01202 280000. www.lighthousepoole.co.uk.

There have been many things going on in Verwood, writes Pete Steele. One not to be missed was the concert given by the Fayrewood Singers at Verwood Methodist Church. The programme was mainly on the theme of Christmas and ranged from Christmas Canon with music by Mozart to Do You Hear What I Hear? with music by Gloria Shayne. The audience was not allowed to get away without singing and joined in a couple of carols and a final Christmas Singalong. As usual at the Fayrewood Singers’ concerts all proceeds will go to charity, in this case the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. A grand total of £855 was raised for the charity that afternoon. Thanks go to all the singers, conductor and accompanist for a truly wonderful afternoon. n Verwood’s Friendship Club held a Christmas Special at the Memorial Hall. We are a social club for the more senior residents of Verwood and surrounding villages and provide a means for those who do not go out as much as they would like to meet up on a monthly basis. We also organise a number of outings during the summer months. At our Christmas Special we were treated to a performance by international music performer Sarah Bolter, accompanied by the brilliant Phil Doyle. Everyone, thoroughly enjoyed the entertainment. This was concluded by a special raffle.. The draw was made by our special guest the mayor, Spencer Flower. Although many were lucky in the draw there were chocolate santas given out at the door so that nobody went home empty-handed. For further details about our club, telephone 01202 827457 for a friendly chat. Richard Ralph

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

30 New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026

Events

From serenades to starbursts at Minster A BSO Strings Ensemble will be presenting an energetic, eclectic programme rich in heritage and heart at Wimborne Minster. This promises to be a concert to pull at your heartstrings and satisfy any curious soul. Sink into the sublime as we serenade you with Tchaikovsky. A poised and sedate piece that lies at the heart of this musical tapestry. Take a musical tour along the Mediterranean coastline with Jenkins’ beloved Palladio.

Journey east with Bartok’s Romanian Folk Dances and Skyork’s beguiling Ukrainian Melody. And Holst pays homage to British folk songs with his charming St. Paul’s Suite. Across the continent and through time, we travel further still. Into a galaxy of rapidly-changing musical colours, exploding gestures and fleeting melodies that create the wondrous soundscape of Jessie Montgomery’s Starburst. A kind and inquisitive composition, Gershwin’s ethereal Lullaby continues

our journey further and further away in a concert designed for all ages. Book your tickets now and bring your friends! And save the date for the Armónico Consort Naked Byrd 2, directed by Christopher Monks on Thursday, March 5, at 7pm also in the Minster church. n BSO On Your Doorstep, Wimborne Minster, Friday, January 16, 7pm. Tickets are available on the BSO website bsolive.com/events/ serenadesandstarburstswimborne-2. Anthony Oliver

From Swindon to Crewe and from Ilkley to glamorous Milton Keynes, no part of this fair kingdom shall be untouched by

the inimitable Hawkins’ magic. If you like pontificating about music and culture, uncovering insights into how the music industry really works and witnessing a man chaotically conducting an evening of entertainment, then Justin Hawkins Rides Again... Again is for you. Once again, Justin will be breaking down some of the most popular and unusual songs out right now - dissecting the very entrails of the music industry with all the insight of a man described by the gutter press as a ‘cat-suit-wearing noughties rock legend’. Some of those catsuits will be in attendance and important questions will be asked; questions that pertain to the world of music, culture and global peace. n February 4, Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne. Tickets available from tivoliwimborne. co.uk, 01202 885566.

It’s Darkness frontman Justin again... again Icon. Superstar. Legend. Hero. These are all words that his publicist frequently uses when discussing Justin Hawkins with anyone who will listen. Words that reflect the magnitude of the man, the sheer charisma, brilliance, verve and intelligence that oozes from his aura. Justin Hawkins that is, not his publicist. And that devastating wit and repartee, along with an encyclopaedic knowledge of not just music itself, but the machinations of the music industry, will be on full display when Justin Hawkins, frontman of revered rock band the Darkness, takes to the stage to Ride Again... Again! Following the wildly-successful, and hugely-acclaimed, series of one-man shows that Hawkins embarked upon in 2024, whereupon he brought his massively popular YouTube show of 600,000+ subscribers to life on stage, he ventures out on a new solo venture for his adoring fans at the start of 2026.

New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026 31

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Events

Arts centre ticket sales hit 10-year high Lighthouse Poole, one of the UK’s biggest multivenue regional arts centres, is reporting a record year as ticket sales hit a 10-year high with more people seeing shows than at any time since the Pandemic. In the year 2024-25, Lighthouse sold 201,800 tickets to a varied programme of 1,113 performances and screenings - an increase of 11% on the 181,373 sold in 2023-24 and up from 180,751 in 2015-16. Attendance at the arts centre’s cinema has also seen a dramatic increase year-onyear, with 37% more tickets sold for the relaunched film programme. Lighthouse chief executive, Elspeth McBain said: “Our eclectic and diverse programme is designed to offer something for everyone,

spanning a wide range of artistic genres and appealing to all interests. “We know many in our community are feeling the pressure of the current economic climate, and that spending on non-essential items can be difficult. “That’s why it is especially heartening to see such strong support for Lighthouse. It’s

clear that our community truly values the chance to experience live performances and events, and we are deeply grateful for their continued commitment.” Lighthouse is also attracting new bookers, with more than 20,000 people visiting the venue for the first time in the last year. Lighthouse has increased

its support of local artists, principally through its Sanctuary artist development residency, working with 26% more artists than the previous year, 86% of whom are from Dorset. The aim is to provide a place where artists have the space to create work for future touring and development. Artists who have benefited include Diverse City, the Shouting Mute, OffPiste Theatre, Angel Exit and Dorsetborn. As well as more people coming to see shows, the venue has also seen its creative work with artists and the local community increase in the last year, delivering more than 19,000 creative workshop engagements with the local community, including 13,515 with young folk to the age of 19 years.

PLEA S KE E CHEC EP KIN OUR G WEBS ITE

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Fri 9th January 7.30pm Tickets £32

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ANEMONE (15)

MIKE OSMAN’S THE FUNNIEST SHOW ON THE PLANET

ULTIMATE CELEBRATION OF FRANKIE VALLI & THE FOUR SEASONS

Sat 17th January 7.30pm Tickets £27

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SPRINGSTEEN - DELIVER ME FROM NOWHERE (12A)

A night with the 45th & 47th President of the United States. The UK’s Number 1 Donald Trump Impersonator. Tues 20th Jan 7.30pm Tickets £23.50 Suitable for ages 16+

PLEA S KEEP E CHEC KING AN EVENING O U RWITH W E B SRIPPER JACK THE I AGE GUIDANCET E12+

Weds 14th January 7.30pm Tickets £22.50

BEN AND TOM WATERS PIANO & SAX DUO OF BOOGIE, BLUES & SOUL Weds 21st January 7.30pm Tickets £27.50

Picture: JAYNE JACKSON

PLEA S KE E CHEC EP KIN OUR G WEBS ITE

FROM THE BLUES BAND

PAUL JONES & DAVE KELLY Thurs 15th January 7.30pm Tickets £32.50

THE EDDIE COCHRAN STORY

Fri 23rd Jan 7.30pm Tickets £22.50

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32 New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026

Pets

It’s all a‘board’ with these jolly collies!

Hello, our names are Max (on the left) and Rocky. We are both seven years old and are border collie crosses. Max and Rocky arrived together at Waggy Tails but are looking for a home each. They are quite similar in character although Max is more bouncy in nature than Rocky. They both enjoy their walks although they are still getting used to walking leads and need a little more patience before they get this down perfect! Both enjoy playing ball and time off lead, so a larger garden or access to space would be great. They are both intelligent and will need ongoing stimulation to keep them entertained. Max fully enjoys cuddling, Rocky is a little less affectionate until he gets to know you. Knowledge of our breed

would be beneficial but not essential. If you are able to offer Max, Rocky or any of their lovely friends a forever home or a foster home please contact our office on 01202 875000, e-mail: admin@waggytails. org.uk or visit our website www.waggytails.org.uk. We also have lots of other dogs looking for their forever homes. Upcoming events: Please do make a note in

your diary and come to support us: Quiz Night: First Saturday of the month at Homelands Hall, Kings Avenue, Christchurch, BH23 1NA, starting at 6.45pm. Handmade Card Stall: Every Friday as part of the Craft Fair at the Druit Hall, Christchurch. Charity Stall at The Spire: Dates for 2026: March 28, June 20, September 26 and November 28, 10am to 2pm.

Presentations of dogs in our care: Jan 17, Feb 7, March 7 and April 4. These will be held at Kinson Community Centre, Pelhams Park, BH10 7LH. Start time 2.00pm sharp; arrival at 1.45pm recommended. Induction meeting will follow. For more information, call 01202 875000 or www. waggytails.org.uk. Donations can be sent to: Waggy Tails Rescue Helen’s House 143 Magna Road Wimborne BH21 3AW

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34 New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026

Puzzles Crossword

Arrow words

1 Arms

Actress, Hurley

Questioned

Logconstructed boat

Central points

Decline

NCO rank (abbr.)

US ‘Z’

Royal title (inits.)

11 13

Peak

14 Raised, rounded mass

Input text scan (inits.)

Press clothes

Bard

Digit

20 21

Scythed, maybe

All-inclusive

Jinx

Jape

‘Do __ _ favour’ (2,1)

Ken

Understanding after an event

Beers

Hound

Serious assault (inits.)

Wordsearch

Across 1 With pros and cons (6-5) 9 Donations (13) 10 Height (8) 12 Way off (4) 14 By yourself (5) 15 Be equal (5) 19 Wish (4) 20 Type of root vegetables (8) 22 Way of speaking a word (13) 24 Ordinances (11)

Outdoor TV shows (abbr.)

Tiny

Down 2 Be the legal holder of (3) 3 Coming apart at the seams (8) 4 Implants (6) 5 Facts and figures (4) 6 Honorific, as in a title (2,7) 7 Fragment (5) 8 Drug addicts (5) 11 It rings for attention (9) 13 Indian consort (8) 16 Snack food often served with hamburgers (5) 17 ‘Understood’ (6) 18 Operating, as in machinery (5) 21 Hindu teacher (4) 23 Public house (3)

Pizza Toppings

J U A A M S M U S H R O O M B L E C H O R

Z O E E M Z A M

P E P P E R O N B M L

H S E T G Z

J U R

A E N T O P T

S S A L A M

E O N A M A H E

U O U U A L

L E R A Z Z O M R

6 8 9

N S B R E H A H P E B A C O N T R O E T N S P T S E V

Sudoku

L O

O A C A A U E T G A E A O

6 8 3

7 8 1 7

O B Z C U Z N A U N O N S A L F C N S T A A O V F O M A Z A M E A O O E C M E M P S A N H B G

E E F U E A S T V

E F A S B N B W O O R T N M O A M R A BACON BEEF CHORIZO HAM HERBS JALAPENOS MOZZARELLA MUSHROOM

4 2 9 7

7 6 9

8 2 1 7

O O B S S S L S U J OLIVES ONION PEPPERONI SALAMI SAUSAGE SWEETCORN TOMATO TUNA

4 9 8 3

6 2 5 Brain chain 17

RESULT

×2

+13

-34

+14

-15

New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026 35

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Puzzles Cryptic crossword

Jumbo 3D Sudoku

3 8 5

5 3 1 8

7 9 3 1 9 5

5 4

4 6

7 3 6

4 3

3 2

18 17

21 20

22 21

19 23

25 25

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Killer Sudoku Pro: 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.

9 7

Killer Sudoku Pro 7

6 5

2 9

3 3

4 8 5 7 9 4 5

2 7

Brain chain (hard) 361

RESULT

+338

-258

÷7

×1/3

×33

The solutions can be found on page 38

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

36 New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026

Motoring

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VIEWINGS BY APPOINTMENT

2016 (65) Audi A5 Coupe 1.8TFSi S Line Nav 2dr. Sat nav, park sensors, cruise control, leather, heated road 5dr. sign 85bhp, assist, Bluetooth, 92,900 miles...........£8650 2017 (17) Ford KA+ seats, 1.2 Zetec petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, parking sensors, control, hill hold, air con, Bluetooth, 56mpg economy, 2015 (15) Dacia cruise Sandero Stepway 0.9TCe Laureate 5dr. upto Sat nav, cruise control, small exterior a spacious parking sensors,with Bluetooth, £35 interior, road tax,76,900 55mpg,miles only ....................................£6450 25,900 miles ...............£6250 2012(17) (62)Ford FordKa+ Ka 1.2 3dr. £35 69bhp, speedsensors, manualcruise gearbox, £35 2017 1.2 Studio Zetec 5dr. tax,petrol, 56mpg,5 park control, yearly tax,29,300 50+mpg, simple car with basic spec, cambelt replaced, MOT Nov 2025, Bluetooth, miles ...................................................................................£7450 private sale on behalf of a customer, 73,500 miles .......................................£2950 2014 (14) Ford EcoSport 1.5TDCi Titanium X Pack SUV 5dr. X pack, leather, 2014 (14) Fordcruise Kuga control, 2.0TDCiBluetooth, Titanium£35 X AWD SUV kit 5dr. 163bhp,87,800 diesel, miles 6 parking sensors, tax,4x4 cambelt replaced, speed manual gearbox, 4x4, high seats, leather, heated seats, heated screen, sat nav, ........................................................................................................................£5450 park sensors, auto park, reverse camera, sunroof, auto lights & wipers, cruise, lane aid, sign recognition, hill hold, electric tailgate, cambelt replaced, miles .........£7450 2021 (21) Ford Puma 1.0T ST Line X MHEV 5dr. 155bhp,92,500 sat nav, parking sensors, cruise control, main beam assist, road sign assist, Bluetooth, partial leather, collision 2020 (69) Ford Tourneo Custom 2.0TDCi Titanium 320 L1 H1 Automatic 9 Seat assist, 47,800 miles.......................................................................................£13250 Minibus 5dr. 130bhp, diesel, 6 speed automatic gearbox, 8 seat plus driver, reversable seats (14) for conference or forward facing, lights wipers, cruise 5dr. control, heated front 2014 Ford Transit 2.2TDCi 350 auto L2 H2 12 &Seat Minibus park sensors, replaced, 97,000 ............£21500 + VAT = £25800 3seats, front & 9 rear seats,cambelt skylight, Bluetooth, idealmiles day van or camper conversion, 75,500 miles ...................................................................................£9000 + VAT = £10800 2020 (69) Ford Transit 2.0TDCi Trend 350 MWB MR L2 H2 11 Seat Minibus 5dr. 130bhp, diesel, 6 speed gearbox, seat control, plus driver, front seats, 9 2017 (67) Honda Jazz 1.3 EXmanual Automatic 5dr.10 Cruise main2 beam rear seats, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, heated front seats, assist, road sign assist, Bluetooth, parking sensors, reverse camera, only 28,500 hill hold, cambelt replaced, 90,200 miles.........................£19500 + VAT = £23400 miles .............................................................................................................£11750

2014(57) (64)Landrover Kia VengaDiscovery 3, 1.6 Automatic Nav) 5dr. 123bhp, petrol, 4 2007 3, 2.7TD(Sat V6 GS 4x4 7 Seat Station Wagon 5dr. speed automatic gearbox, high seating, decent boot, sat nav, parking sensors & Bargain clearance, to be sold as spares or repairs, exhaust leak from exhaust turbo reversepipe camera, electric sunroof, heated seats, cruise control, sign balance behind engine, starts &partial drivesleather, but needs sorting, recent clutch & flywheel recognition, hill hold, only 38,800 miles........................................................£7850 replacement, 217,500 miles ............................................................................£1500 2016 (66) Mazda 3, 2.0 SE-L Nav Automatic 5dr. 120bhp, petrol, 6 speed 2016 (16) Peugeot 208 1.2 Allure 5dr. New cambelt kit, £20 tax, 60mpg, parking automatic gearbox, sat nav, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, sensors, cruise control, Bluetooth, 38,500 miles ..............................................£6250 sign recognition, heated seats, hill hold, 75,900 miles...................................£8450

Five Square Motors (Bosch Garage) Salisbury Road (A30) Shaftesbury SP7 8BU

2009 (59) Renault Clio 1.5DCi Expression Sport Tourer Estate 5dr. Bargain clearance, Nov 26, £35 tax, cambelt 1 owner, fullAutomatic history, 160,500 2006 (06)MOT Mercedes-Benz CLK200 1.8replaced, Kompressor Sport Convertible 2dr. 163bhp, petrol, 5 speed auto gearbox, recent new roof & shocks miles ...............................................................................................................£1500 absorbers, full history, 15 stamps, heated leather, electric roof, auto lights & wipers, 2018 0.9TCe Iconic sale 5dr. on High seating, nav, parking cruise,(68) parkRenault sensors,Captur MOT June 25, private behalf of a sat customer, 77,500 miles ...........................................................................................................£4250 sensors, cruise control, road sign assist, Bluetooth, 73,500 miles ....................£6850 2015 (74) (65) Suzuki PeugeotSwift 308 1.2THP Allure 6 speed 2024 1.2 Ultra MHEVAutomatic Automatic5dr. 5dr.130bhp, Sat nav,petrol, parking automatic gearbox, sat nav, park sensors, reverse camera, auto lights & wipers, sensors, reverse camera, adaptive cruise control, heated seats, main beam assist, cruise control, hill hold, only £35 a year road tax, 50+mpg economy, cambelt has road sign assist,69,500 blind spot assist, 10,500 miles.............................................£17950 been replaced, miles..............................................................DUE IN SOON 2019 (07) (19) Vauxhall Renault Captur 1.5DCi Automatic SUV 5dr. diesel,2026, 2007 Corsa 1.2 ClubIconic 5dr. Bargain clearance, MOT90bhp, September 6notspeed automatic gearbox, sat nav, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, parking perfect but its cheap, current owner for 15 years, 160,700 miles ................. £850 sensors, hill hold, high seating, sliding rear seats, upto 67mpg economy, 20,300 miles .........................................................................................................£12250 2018 (18) Volkswagen Tiguan 1.4TSi SE Navigation Automatic SUV 5dr. Sat nav, park & sensors camera, heated seats,petrol, winter5pack, cruise control, main 2017 (17)assist Vauxhall Astra& 1.4 SRi 5dr. 100bhp, speed manual gearbox, beam assist,& Bluetooth, 63,500sensors, miles.............................................................£13950 auto lights wipers, parking cruise control, pre-collision assist, sign recognition, hill hold, Bluetooth, 63,600 miles ..............................................£6950 2020 (69) Volvo V60 2.0TD D3 Momentum Plus Estate 5dr. Heated leather, 2016 (66) Vauxhall Mokka 1.6CDTi SE 4x4 SUV 5dr. 136bhp, diesel, 6 speed memory seat, sat nav, cruise control, parking sensors, Bluetooth, electric tailgate, manual gearbox, 4 wheel drive, high seating, big boot, heated leather seats, heated road signwheel, assist,auto cambelt 106,500 milesparking ....................................£11750 steering lightskit&replaced, wipers, cruise control, sensors, hill hold, performance & economy, upto 60mpg, 65,500 miles ....................................£7250

WE BUY CARS & VANS SO IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING TOBUY SELLCARS GIVE & US A CALL, WE PAYHAVE GOOD PRICES WE VANS SO IF YOU SOMETHING & CONSIDER MOST VEHICLES TO SELL GIVE US A CALL, WE PAY GOOD PRICES & CONSIDER MOST VEHICLES

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New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026 37

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Sport

Neil flying high at end of year bash

Sparkling year for athletics club

Athletics Former English Schools stars and club members Lou Lindon and Ryan Webb took on handshaking duties at Wimborne Athletic Club’s annual presentation evening at Wimborne Town Football Club. Mila Desborough has been the star performer this year but there was a whole array of talent on show, including seven English Schools entrants and 10 record breakers. Mila won every one of her competitions in the 2025 season, breaking the English Schools Under-15 record for the javelin. This earned her the club’s Exceptional Performance, Outstanding Performance and Javelin trophies and she is number one in the country. Elliott Trickey has had a special year. While he shared the Under-15 points trophy with Harley Stanley he won the Jonathon Edwards Trophy for Triple Jump and was presented with the prestigious Les Phillips Trophy for his allround contribution to the life of the club including setting up the Junior Committee. Harley also won the Male Sprints Trophy. The Under-11 trophy winners were Adriana Travers and Ezra Hayden with Maisie Robbins and Zachary Johnson working hard for their Under-13 trophies. The girls Under-13 squad were also

presented with the Hill Ford Team Trophy for winning their age group in the South West League. Zachary also won the Male Throws trophy. Ava Elliott Smith came out on top in the Female Under-15 age group and also took the Female Sprints title. Dave Pearson and Trudi Carter won the senior Awards. Olivia Jones won the Female Under-17 title and also the Female Throws Trophy. James Froud won the Male Under-17 trophy and brother Thomas won best Male Newcomer. Best Female Newcomer was Jasmine Foster who broke two club records as an Under-11 and received a medal as second highest scorer in the Wessex Young Athletes League of potentially more than 200 girls. And Lani Moore won the Hurdles Trophy on the basis of being Number 2 in the UK. Lila Richards won the Carol Hollins Long Jump Trophy and Kayla Robbins, another club record breaker, won the High Jump Trophy. Harry Read was the Multi Events Trophy winner and Rosie Gollings and Mason Dicker took the prizes for Sportshall. Rosie also shared the Middle Distance Award with Olivia Eves with Ethan Kirkpatrick taking the male version. Ewan Eadie received the Steeplechase Trophy.

The Faulkner family were big winners of Cross Country and distance trophies. Thomas won the Performance Trophy with James winning the Male Fidelity Cup and Ben sharing the Catherine Rawles trophy with Toby Smith. Nancy Smith was the Female Cross Country winner with Olivia Chapman winning the Fidelity Cup. Before Elliott was awarded the Les Phillips Trophy as a finale to the performance part of the evening there were awards for Phil York with the Robin Blackburn Trophy for support in so many areas of the club’s life. Tilly Pretty was awarded the Clare Bailey Trophy for commitment and effort. Her very active participation in training sessions has earned her the unofficial title of the Drills Queen. Peter Impett rounded up the club’s year in his hosting of the event identifying the challenges ahead in 2026. Peter was rewarded with the 2025 Tim Wilding Memorial Trophy by the Wessex Young Athletes League and also the club’s Coach of the Year taking two athletes to the English Schools, but also marking nearly forty years with the club. He filled the high-jump coach role when no one else came forward and emphasised the need for parents and others to come forward to help with the coaching and officiating. Peter Impett

An unseasonably warm day greeted the fly fishers for their annual Christmas match at Manningford Fishery in Wiltshire. It’s a lovely venue with a reputation for strong, fighting fish. It may have been the low barometric pressure making the fish a little sluggish but some anglers found things hard going from the start. Fish seemed to respond better to small imitative flies rather than the lures which usually tempt the fairweather fish. Chris Morgan continued his successful campaign with a winning bag of four fish weighing in at just shy of 20lb. A special mention for Neil O’Shea (pictured) who’srunner up bag consisted of four beautiful brown trout, all ready for the Christmas table. Well done both! Gordon Wray

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

38 New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026

Business

Register now for forum programmes Following the successful completion of its first programme, Evolve’s Growth Forum is now inviting ambitious small and mediumsized businesses across Dorset to register for one of two fully-funded business support programmes. Delivered by local business advisory specialists Evolve and funded by Business Growth Dorset, the Growth Forum is designed to help business leaders tackle challenges, build momentum and develop clear strategies for sustainable growth. Two new cohorts are now open for registration - one tailored for Dorset-based businesses from any sector, and another specifically for those in the engineering and manufacturing sectors. Each forum brings together up to 15 local business owners and leaders for a series of three in-person, peer-led workshops, alongside dedicated

one-to-one support and access to specialist business masterclasses. Over the course of the programme, participants will review strategic topics - from refining leadership style and the importance of creating a values-led culture, to harnessing the potential of AI, automation and innovation to drive progress and growth. David Mutton, business adviser, says Evolve Growth Forum offers a real opportunity for local business owners and leaders to not only discuss their challenges and opportunities, but also to give them the tools and confidence to help grow their businesses, benefitting from the support of others on a similar journey. “The sessions are more than just theory, they are about helping business leaders to create real changes and look at new

opportunities in their business.” Liz Hutchings, founder and managing director at Total Guide To Ltd and a participant in the first programme, added: “As a local business owner, I’ve found it incredibly valuable to take time away from day-to-day operations to work on the business instead of just in it. The sessions have prompted fresh thinking and inspired new approaches that I can bring back to my team. “It’s not ‘death by PowerPoint’ - it’s interactive, collaborative and with practical advice from people who actually get it.” The Evolve Growth Forum is free and open to SMEs based in the Dorset Council or BCP Council areas. Each cohort is limited to 15 participants. To find out more and register your interest, visit evolveadvisory. co.uk/service/the-evolve-growth-forum.

Puzzle solutions Sudoku

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D O U B L E E D G E D S W U M A X U C O N T R I B U T I O N S R S E A F E A L T I T U D E A F A R P E I S M I S A L O N E M A T C H C E G G H I U H O P E P O T A T O E S I H G T R I P R O N U N C I A T I O N S N R H N N G RESULT R E G U L A T I O N S

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Any problems with these puzzles? Email newsdesk@ stourandavon.net Arrow words W I E N R A F T P O E T O C R U N I V E S I M E A K N O W L W E E H I N D S

L T I R O N Z E E F C H U M P R S A L H E X J E D G E O B S I G H T

Cryptic crossword V S B S W G G E X P L O I T I G L O O N E T O S U O U N C U T W E E K E N D E T O S B F R O M D A Y T O D A Y A U P O E C O M P U T E R G A M E E N L I F T A R T L E T O W N E R A I O E B A O T O P I C A G A I N S T E E K M L T H

New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026 39

stouravonmagazine.co.uk

Business

Urgent safety tips for lithium-ion batteries Following a surge of viral content on social media, including a recent story from well-known creator Kyra Mae, detailing a devastating house fire caused by lithium-ion batteries, High Speed Training, a leading health and safety e-learning company, has shared urgent guidance. This urgency is heightened with numerous new battery-powered Christmas gifts, including electric scooters, drones, and the latest phones and toys, entering homes and significantly increasing the risk of incidents if not handled properly. What is a lithium-ion battery? A lithium-ion battery is a type of rechargeable power source known for its high energy density and lightweight design. Unlike older battery chemistries, it utilises lithium ions as its primary component, enabling it to store a substantial amount of power relative to its size and weight. This efficiency and performance make lithium-ion technology the standard choice for portable devices, electric vehicles, and everyday electronics. Dr Richard Anderson at High Speed Training, said: “Despite their many benefits, lithium-ion batteries do come with risks, and while serious incidents are relatively

rare, the consequences can be severe if safety measures are not followed. “Some of these dangers include fires or explosions, the release of toxic gases, and chemical burns. It is essential that we emphasise the importance of proper usage, safe charging, and responsible disposal of lithium-ion batteries.” Why do lithium-ion batteries catch fire? Lithium-ion batteries primarily catch fire as

a result of thermal runaway. This is the core mechanism where the temperature within a battery cell rises uncontrollably, typically due to physical damage, overheating, a manufacturing fault, or overcharging. How to prevent lithium-ion battery fires Only purchase lithium-ion batteries and chargers from reputable suppliers Store batteries in a cool, dry location, away from direct sunlight and flammable materials. Check batteries frequently for warning signs, such as swelling, leaking, or physical damage. Never dispose of lithium-ion batteries in general household waste bins. They must be taken to authorised recycling centres or disposal facilities to prevent fires in waste trucks or landfill sites. If a fire occurs, do not attempt to extinguish it yourself, as water isn’t suitable for extinguishing the battery itself. Raise the alarm, evacuate the area immediately, and call 999 without delay. We urge everyone to take a moment today to check their chargers and storage habits; in all cases, prevention is the best defence against serious lithium-ion battery fires. For more tips and in-depth guidance, visit High Speed Training Hub.

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40 New Stour & Avon, January 9, 2026

With 24 hour

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WHY CHOOSE US? Davids is a family business that has been established for over 100 years. We specialise in all types of roofing and property maintenance services for both commercial and domestic buildings.

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CONTACT US TODAY: www.davidsroofing.co.uk 01202 882777 07907 873339 info@davidsofwimborne.co.uk Stone Lane Industrial Estate, Wimborne, BH21 1HD