What’s inside this issue...
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Cover: Beech avenue, Wimborne
n Diet diamond p8
n Walk this way p20
Landmark project confirmed for town £12,700 boost to
Wimborne Minster Town Council has announced that HOME, a landmark project for Wimborne Town of Culture 2026, will move forward following a successful funding award from Arts Council England.
Running until December 2026, HOME is an ambitious, townwide, multi-arts programme bringing together theatre, visual art, music and film. The project will see local artists and residents co-create original work exploring what home means in Wimborne
today. Without this, the project would not have been possible. Developed through consultation with more than 3,700 residents, HOME responds directly to a need for more inclusive, accessible creative opportunities - particularly for communities who have historically had lower engagement with the arts. Activity will take place across neighbourhoods, schools and community settings, ensuring that people can take part close to where they live.
The project is expected to engage thousands of participants and audiences across Wimborne and beyond.
Wimborne Town of Culture shines a spotlight on arts, culture, sports, recreation and leisure in the town - and helps fuel more of it under the banner ‘The Culture Catalyst’ with a series of bold new projects.
Wimborne is Dorset Town of Culture 2026, following Bridport in 2024 and Weymouth & Portland (2025).
Jigsaw fans celebrate ten years of puzzling
Five hundred weekly meetings, at least 1,000 puzzles, (that’s approximately a million pieces), and it’s anyone’s guess as to the number of cups of tea and homemade cakes that have been consumed - all of this was celebrated in Wimborne Library by the Just Jigsaws puzzle group in May.
It all began in May 2016 when, as a result of several fundraising events, we had about 100 jigsaw puzzles, all complete, surplus to requirements. Rather than try to give them all away we decided to see if there was a demand for a jigsaw-lending library. The dilemma was - where could they be stored and still be available for borrowing? After various dead-end searches the staff at Wimborne Library came up with an interesting offer. They had a ‘wall’ of empty shelves that we could use in return for hosting a jigsaw group on the premises, open to anyone in the
local community. And so, as they say, the rest is history and Just Jigsaws came into being. The group is open to anyone free on a Wednesday between 2.30pm and 4.30pm. We now have approximately 350 puzzles available - mainly 500 and 1,000 pieces, plus a significant number of 250 and 500 large-piece puzzles.
We’ve been very grateful for donations received during the years, often these appear anonymously, and these enable us to replace puzzles that have been made several times within our meetings. We pass on spares or duplicates to charity shops or charity jigsaw fairs we hear of. There’s no pressure to work quickly or in a particular way. Some people prefer to work alone, others in pairs or a group of three.
All are welcome to come and join us... just turn up at one of our meetings. Ruth Atkin
hospice from crematorium
The Forest Holme Hospice charity is celebrating its continuing partnership with Harbour View Crematorium following a generous donation of £12,714.78 raised through the crematorium’s metals recycling scheme.
Harbour View Crematorium at Lytchett Minster works with a specialist recycling company in mainland Europe to responsibly recycle metals remaining after the cremation process.
Funds generated through the scheme are donated to support local hospice care, with Forest Holme Hospice Charity receiving a significant share each year.
The funds raised will help Forest Holme Hospice Charity continue providing specialist palliative and end of life care for local people facing life-limiting illnesses, while also supporting loved ones through difficult times.
Oh yea! Chance to become junior mayor or town crier
Young people from across the area are being invited to take part in the Junior Mayor and Junior Town Crier competition, taking place at Wimborne Model Town on Saturday, July at 4, 2.00pm.
The competition offers a unique opportunity for children and young people to develop their public speaking skills, build confidence and become involved in Wimborne’s proud civic traditions.
The competition is open to young people aged six to 14 years.
Participants will be provided with a town cry and judged on their delivery, enthusiasm, clarity and volume as they compete for the prestigious title of Junior Town Crier.
The junior mayor competition is open to young people aged nine to 18 years. Competitors will prepare and deliver their own speech on the theme: ‘My ideas to make Wimborne Minster a better place.’
Judges will be looking for
creativity, confidence and a genuine passion for the local community.
The event promises an enjoyable afternoon of friendly competition, community spirit and civic engagement, with family, friends and supporters encouraged to attend and cheer on the competitors.
Contact Gary Mason 01202 881655 or email community@ wimborne.gov.uk for entry and further information.
Swim star Isabella is set to shine at Games
Isabella Haynes, a Year 12 student at Queen Elizabeth School, has been selected to represent England in the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow this summer.
The 17-year-old’s journey is one of determination, courage and inspiration.
Born prematurely at 28 weeks, Isabella and her twin sister faced a difficult start to life.
Just a week after she was born, doctors noticed severe bruising on her right leg and made the heartbreaking decision to amputate it in order to save her health.
Despite the challenges, Isabella never let her disability stop her. She learned to crawl, climb and play just like any other child, adapting quickly and confidently.
As she grew older, she began using prosthetic legs that changed as she developed. She has three different prosthetic legs: An everyday hightechnology leg to help her walk comfortably, one designed for wet conditions and swimming events, and a special running blade for sports.
Swimming became the perfect sport for Isabella because it was gentle on her body and helped avoid blisters caused by prosthetics.
After first learning to swim for fun, she joined Swim Bournemouth Club at the age of eight.
Under the guidance of Swim Bournemouth and their coaches, her talent quickly became clear. Isabella now trains an incredible 14 hours a week in the
pool, alongside gym sessions, balancing both para-swimming and able-bodied competitions. Her dedication earned recognition from Team England, who followed her progress through regional, national and international competitions in Brazil, Lima and Luxembourg. This summer, Isabella was selected to represent England at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow in the 100m breaststroke and 100m backstroke events. When the letter arrived Isabella said: “I’m very excited, proud of myself, grateful for all the support and honoured for being selected.”
Elizabeth Haynes
New president for town club
A new president for the Probus Club of Wimborne has been inaugurated. Celebrating more than 45 years since the club’s foundation, John Oliver, left, took over from Trevor Foan at the president’s lunch.
John congratulated Trevor on a very succesfful year as president with membership continuing to increase. The club meetes every first Thursday of the month at Broadstone Golf Club for a
lunch and talk by a range of interesting speakers. More information can be found at www.wimborne probus.org.uk.
Splice the mainbrace
The River Stour is set to come alive once again next month as the Rotary Clubs of Christchurch and Boscombe & Southbourne launch the 2026 Christchurch River Pageant.
Following the resounding success of last year’s inaugural
event, the pageant will return on Saturday, July 25, promising a vibrant display of community spirit, historical fancy dress, and friendly competition. Organisers from both clubs are officially opening registrations and calling on boat owners, paddleboarders, clubs, and businesses to enter their craft.
Last year’s maiden voyage saw a spectacular fleet of 45 vessels take to the water, ranging from sleek kayaks to a highlyambitious floating picnic table. The procession drew thousands of spectators, raising more than £2,500 for local causes. The day concluded with an exhilarating demonstration of dragon boat racing and sea shanties.
This year’s fancy dress theme invites participants to delve into Christchurch’s rich and colourful past—think smugglers, pirates, and maritime pioneers. Whether you want to paddle a decorated SUP, captain a motorboat, or construct a homemade raft with your corporate colleagues, all safe watercraft are welcome.
Registration forms are available directly via the official website at christchurchrotary.org.uk.
All aboard for Fathers’ Day charity express
On Fathers’ Day, June 21, at 2.00pm, Shillingstone Station will be laying on a special ploughman’s lunch, just for dads and their families.
There’ll be a choice of ham or cheese (two sorts), with all the traditional accompaniments, for £10.00 per person. Dad’s vegan? No problem, there’s a vegan alternative for £12.00. Just let the cafe know when you book which option is preferred. And if dad has a sweet tooth, treat him to two home-made scones, clotted cream and jam, for £8.00 per person. All proceeds from our lunch will go towards the maintenance and ongoing development of North Dorset Railway.
It’s come a long way since it was ‘closed’ but there is much still to do, and the station has big plans for the future.
To book for Father’s Day, either drop in or phone the station (Wednesdays and weekends between 10.00am and 4.00pm), on 01258 860696.
Hilary Daniels
£18m safe haven for young folk
A long-awaited specialist unit to support children and young people in mental health crisis across Dorset is now open.
Seastone, Dorset HealthCare’s new £17.9m high-intensity environment in Bournemouth, will provide 24-hour inpatient care for 13 to 18-year-olds with severe mental health issues.
As well as offering the latest facilities and expert support, the eight-bed unit - the first of its kind in the South
West - will allow patients to be treated close to friends and family, greatly reducing the need for out-of-area placements which can hamper the chances of recovery. The building is the latest dividend of a £70.6m investment in Dorset’s mental health services as part of the Government’s New Hospital Programme.
Chaddesley House, at St Ann’s Hospital in Poole, opened earlier this month to
increase capacity and enhance services for local adults needing intensive treatment. Seastone will provide eight ensuite bedrooms, seclusion and de-escalation areas, classroom facilities, therapy, sensory and games rooms, a gym, and a space for family visits.
MPs Neil Duncan-Jordan (Poole), Lloyd Hatton (South Dorset) and Jessica Toale (Bournemouth West) attended the event.
Letters email: newsdesk@stourandavon.net
Following Roland Britain’s letter (New Stour & Avon, May 29), I doubt that he and I would agree on very much about Middle Eastern affairs, except that it would always be better if no wars were ever necessary. Certainly, we all also often project our own personal political views (‘Trump lackey Nigel Farage’?) when debating what should in my view be an apolitical issue.
Two weeks between issues of the magazine does, of course, take some of the edge off, thankfully! Yes, there are other odious regimes elsewhere, but whether they can be equally assessed is another matter, as their ‘risk factors’ will vary hugely. I simply maintain that I can in no way favour any country (Iran in this case, or at least its proxies) that has a clear policy of obliterating another (Israel), militarises religion with
fanaticism against any, generally western, supporters(including the United Kingdom) and strives for a nuclear weapon, which is unlikely to be viewed as a defensive mechanism/deterrent as applied elsewhere as the ‘norm’.
Other issues within the Iranian regime do not need repeating.
As to the ‘legality’ of the war, I don’t doubt the posture of many international law experts but I am also aware that opinion is sharply divided and Article 51 is interpreted very differently in the two camps, most notably of course by the US government. It is distinctly possible that I explain myself poorly but I always tend to reject extreme views, preferring more balance and nuance.
Roland and I must agree to disagree, as they say .
Chris Wilkinson Ferndown
Your email comments are very welcome, however we cannot publish them anonymously and we reserve the right to edit them as deemed necessary
Town slimming expert wins prestigious award
A Slimming World consultant has won the rare and prestigious Diamond Award at a glittering ceremony in recognition of her amazing work supporting people in Wimborne to live happier, healthier lives.
Louise, who has run the Wimborne Slimming World group at Wimborne Community Centre for the last 18 years, collected the coveted Diamond & Diamond Again Award at a ceremony held at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham last week. She is hugely proud of the difference she makes within her local community and said: “While I was the one collecting this award, it’s an achievement for everyone in my Wimborne group - they’re all diamonds in my eyes with their amazing weight losses!
“So far this year they’ve shed an incredible total of 316 stone!
“Just healthy eating and support in group around behaviour change and mindset.
“I truly believe I have the best, most rewarding role in the world; it never feels like work and
this award makes it even more special.
“The support and training I’ve received from Slimming World has been second to none, and I love that they provide moments like these to celebrate my wonderful members’ achievements.”
n The Wimborne Slimming World group is held every Tuesday at 7.30am, 9am, 10.30am, 4pm, 5.30pm and 7pm at Wimborne Community Centre. To join, pop along or for more information contact Louise on 07902 566149.
WIMBORNE
Wimborne Community Cente
41-44 Kings Street
Tuesdays 7:30am, 9am, 10:30am, 4pm, 5:30pm & 7pm Louise 07902 566149
WEST MOORS
Pinehurst Community Church
90 Pinehurst Road
Wednesdays 3:30pm, 5:30pm & 7pm
Thursdays 9am & 10:30am
Karen 07795 820310
COLEHILL
St Michaels Church Centre
Colehill Lane
Thursday 6pm
Saturday 7:30am & 9am
FERNDOWN
Ferndown Village Hall
Church Road
Tuesday 5:45pm & 7pm
Karen 07795 820310
FERNDOWN
Ferndown Village Hall
Church Road
Thursday 7.30am & 9am
Janet 07967 544393
CORFE MULLEN
The Royal British Legion
Wednesday 9am, 11am, 3:30pm, 5:15pm & 7pm Lucy 07749 983274
BROADSTONE
The Royal British Legion
Friday 8:30am & 10am
Lucy 07749 983274
BLANDFORD
Corn Exchange
Tuesday 7pm
Sarah 07880 730481
BLANDFORD
Corn Exchange
Wednesday 8:30am, 10am, 11:30am, 5:30pm & 7:30pm
BLANDFORD
Methodist Church, The Close
Thursday 5:30pm & 7:30pm
Tracey 07776 309982
CASTLEPOINT
St Edmund Campion Church
Thursday 5:30pm & 7pm Belinda 07971 356743
CASTLEPOINT
St Edmund Campion Church
Thursday 9:00am & 10:30am
Debbie 07931 480464
VERWOOD
Verwood Memorial Hall
Ringwood Road
Tuesday 7:30am & 9am
Wednesday 3:30pm, 5:30pm & 7pm
Debbie 07931 480464
VERWOOD
Verwood Methodist
Church Hall Vicarage Road
Thursday 6pm
Debbie 07931 480464 *When you commit to 6 or 12 weeks of group support. At participating groups. Offer available 14th June to 4th July 2026. Visit our website for terms and conditions.
Tracey 07776 309982
you commit to 6 or 12 weeks of
Offer available 14th June to 4th July 2026.
Karen 07957 234839 *When you commit to 6 or 12 weeks of group support. At participating groups. Offer available 14th June to 4th July 2026.
“I feel very secure and thoroughly and utterly spoilt.”
Mary, care home resident
At Care UK’s Ferndown Manor in Ferndown, every resident is supported to live their life the way they choose. Our experienced team takes pride in offering quality residential, nursing, dementia and respite care.
Mary, a Care UK care home resident, shares how the home’s quality care has made her feel cared for and secure after a life-changing fall shook her confidence.
‘They’re trained to a very high level’ Mary moved into a Care UK care home after experiencing a life-changing fall. She recalls being met with tender care and concern. “I feel safe with the care team and other colleagues. I trust them implicitly,” she says. “They set very high standards of honesty, and I also feel that they’re trained to a very high level.”
Care UK’s approach to quality care is marked by some of the highest quality ratings of the UK’s larger care providers, and its status as the most awarded care home group. In Mary’s experience, high-quality care has been the standard from day one. “It’s wonderful having a team around me to know that if I’m in trouble they will come.” But beyond this, a warm, family feeling is what makes it feel like home.
“The team become friends, which is wonderful because you leave your home, and life is totally different,” Mary says. “They’re all so friendly and caring.”
‘A wonderful, safe feeling’
At 88, Mary lives with COPD and has difficulty walking, but she manages well because of the dedicated team’s round-the-clock support. “It’s a wonderful, safe feeling. At home, there wouldn’t be anyone around because I was alone. Here, I get a wonderful feeling of security.”
Mary’s family feel she is in good hands too. Her two children who live abroad
don’t have to worry about her living alone anymore, and her daughter who lives nearby is also kept up-to-date and enjoys popping into the home frequently. “Everybody is incredibly happy that I’m here.”
Trust us to care
Our approach to quality care is based on best practice and the latest evidence, so you can trust your loved one is safe and comfortable.
Care UK is a leading independent care home provider with some of the highest quality ratings of the UK’s larger care providers, and over 40 years’ experience of delivering highquality care to older people.
For more information about Ferndown Manor in Ferndown, call 01202 618669 or visit careuk.com/ferndown-manor
Monthly SEND club nights
Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s Disability Charity, has teamed up with Bar Coast on Commercial Road in Bournemouth to offer club nights designed specifically for adults with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The monthly club nights offer a safe, welcoming space where everyone can enjoy music, dancing and social connection in a supportive environment. Each event is thoughtfully designed to ensure accessibility and enjoyment for all attendees, creating an opportunity for people with additional needs to experience a lively night out in a safe and comfortable setting. Doors open at 7pm, with the events running until 9pm.
Fridays: July 3
August 14
September 11
October 16
November 20
December 18.
Tickets are £5, with carer tickets available for £2.50.
Guests who require support are asked to attend with a carer, as support staff are not provided. Further information and tickets are available at: diverseabilities. org.uk/limitless.
A ‘brief encounter’
with a centenarian
Margaret Cave who, as Margaret Barton, is the last surviving member of the cast who took part in the Film ‘Brief Encounter’ marked her 100th birthday with a party at Streets Meadow in Wimborne. Amongst the visitors were mayor of Wimborne Jeff Hart, the Rector of Wimborne, the Revd Canon Andrew Rowland and step-daughter Julia Palmer. Margaret played the part of Beryl Walters, the tea-room assistant in the film, much of which was shot at Carnforth railway station in Lancashire. The film originally premiered in London on November 13, 1945. After the untimely death of her son Michael in 1981 who was assistant director of music at Canford School and assistant organist at Wimborne Minster Margaret and her first husband Raymond James moved from London to Wimborne and were the instigators of the Michael James Music Trust which continues to this day.
The Trust, which was set up in 1981 in memory of Michael, promotes, educates and supports gifted young musicians.
The town of Wimborne has become the centre of what is
now an independent flourishing national charity serving the community which attracts an ever-increasing number of patrons and followers across the county and beyond.
Margaret married her second husband Rob Cave in Wimborne in 2018 after she and Rob had lost their respective spouses. At the time they were one of the oldest couples in the country to get married.
Rob died in 2023 and Margaret has been looked after in Streets Meadow for a little while now.
Pictured is Margaret with stepdaughter Julia Palmer, the Revd Canon Andrew Rowland and town mayor Jeff Hart. Anthony Oliver
Jewellery & Watches; Coins, Objets de Vertu & Silver; and 20th Century Decorative Arts Saturday 13th June 2026 SOLD FOR £15,000 For a full list of our specialist sales
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
Jewellery, Watches, Gold & Silver 17th Chinese, Japanese & Asian Art 18th Coins, Medals, Militaria & Stamps 19th Classic Car Auction at Haynes Museum Thursday 18th June at 11.00am Viewing, bidding & all lots on our web site
Specialist Valuation Days in Sherborne
Model Trains, Cars, Dolls & Toys 15th Pictures, Books, Maps & Postcards 16th
To arrange a home visit contact Richard Bromell at our Sherborne Salerooms
No need for you to be Guinnless any longer
A large single-owner collection of Guinness-related advertising memorabilia is being sold by Charterhouse in Sherborne on Thursday, June 25. Richard Bromell of Charterhouse said: “The owner, who lives in Somerset, amassed the collection over the past 10 to 15 years and although he is partial to an occasional Guinness, his preferred tipple is a drop of whisky.”
There are hundreds of items of Guinness advertising items covering the past 90 years or so.
WANTED Books
hardback, fountain pens, coins and stamps, costume jewellery. Cash paid.
Telephone Mr Jones 01202 733550
There are John Gilroy zoo animals produced by Carltonware, lamps, buttons, tie pins, mugs, glasses, watches, salt and pepper pots, dishes, bowls, trays, beer mats, mirrors, die-cast model vehicles and many other items, all estimated to sell for thousands of pounds. The collection has been on display in the owners spare bedroom for years, but with a house mouse on the horizon, the owner asked Charterhouse over to look at, collect, catalogue and auction his beloved collection of Guinness breweriana.
n Richard and the team can be contacted for specialist advice and valuations at the Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, 01935 812277 or via rb@ charterhouse-auction.com.
Never a better time to be selling at auction
Whether you are looking to release some capital for a holiday or a new car or just to clear some space, auctions can be an easy solution.
At Ringwood Auctions we offer a free appraisal service. This can be as easy as taking a photograph and emailing it to us. We may not be able to give precise values but will certainly be able to give an estimate. Our highly-experienced auctioneer is always honest, open and welcoming.
At Ringwood Auctions, we pride ourselves on being Ringwood’s permanent and premier auction house with unparalleled customer service, friendly welcoming atmosphere and an international client base who
regularly buy from us. With live broadcasts on every auction as well as in person, with extended viewing hours prior to the sale open to all, Ringwood Auctions is an excellent place to turn your items into cash. Every sale we consign silver and jewellery, coins, stamps, furniture, works of art, ceramics and glassware, pictures and books, and twice a year we will hold a firearms sale. All enquiries welcome by phone 01425 480178 or email info@ ringwoodauctions.co.uk.
Politics
Time to act on the climate and nature crisis
Late last year, MPs were invited to attend the National Emergency Briefing on the climate and nature crisis. Now, a public version featuring Chris Packham, Deborah Meaden and Jennifer Saunders has been made and I recently attended an event in Wareham to watch it. I will be joining another in Wimborne this month.
While much of the science was familiar, the briefing was a stark reminder of how serious the situation is - and how quickly we must act.
At a time when many households are struggling with the cost of living, and with war in Europe and the Middle East, I understand that climate action feels like something that can wait. But it can’t. The cost of doing nothing will be much higher. Climate change is already causing devastation around the world whilst the UK is experiencing crop losses and health issues. In Dorset, flooding and river pollution after heavy rain and wildfires, risking homes
and killing wildlife, demonstrate that climate change is not a distant threat, but one already affecting our communities. There is also a debate about energy security, with some arguing that more drilling in the North Sea will reduce bills. It is important to be clear: That claim is misleading. Oil and gas are sold on global markets, so more drilling here does not guarantee lower prices for families in the UK. New licences would take years to produce fuel, doing nothing to help families now, while binding us to fossil fuels for longer and pumping more CO2 into the atmosphere. This is why action on climate and nature is not a fringe issue. Liberal Democrats have long argued that protecting our environment, cutting emissions and restoring nature are essential to a strong economy and healthier communities. The good news is that progress is already happening. The UK grid has been massively decarbonised, more people are switching to electric
Liberal Democrat
Mid-Dorset & North Poole
VIKKI SLADE
MP
vehicles than expected, and here in Dorset the public have embraced more space for nature. This shows we can move quickly when we choose to.
To make us safer and richer, we must go further. That means investing in clean, homegrown energy - like wind, solar and tidal power - and retrofitting as many homes as possible. It also means thinking differently about how we use land, grow food and
design transport, so they work better for people and nature. This is not about forcing people to change their lives. It’s about making it easier to make greener choices; whether that’s reducing our meat and dairy, or at least buying it locally, reducing waste, going electric when you buy your next car or supporting better public transport and safe walking routes so people have real options.
Young people already understand what is at stake. When I visit schools, I am often asked to help the rainforests, and coral reefssimple but powerful reminders of what we risk losing, and why we must act.
I have signed a motion calling for the National Emergency Briefing to be shown on primetime television so everyone can see the evidence and understand the solutions. In the meantime, I encourage you to attend or host a local screening.
The best time to act was decades ago... the second-best time is now.
MPs and alcohol raised at PM’s Questions!
Being called to ask a question at Prime Minister’s Questions is a privilege that is highly sought after, especially for the MPs who have not been awarded a government position, or a government supporting role.
PMQs are the perfect opportunity to champion the constituency you represent, highlight how a particular government policy (or absence of one) has affected, or benefited your constituents and basically a great way to get noticed in the commons chamber!
There is no better way to cement your place in PMQs history, than to make your first question something that both fulfils your duties as a constituency Member of Parliamant and also garners the respect of your peers in Parliament.
Look up the debut PMQs question of the House’s
newest MP, delivered on May 20.
The subject was Parliament’s bars and staff restaurants, MPs allegedly voting under the influence of alcohol and drinking during work hours!
In my opinion, this was a waste of a PMQs debut - a missed opportunity to pack a parliamentary punch for the people MPs are paid to represent.
The idea that MPs get cheap food and drink subsidised by the tax payer is also incorrect. The Parliament staff restaurants and bars are run on a ‘not-for-profit’ basis. The reason the meals and drinks cost less than let’s say, a pub in Longsight, is because no one needs to charge extra on top to make a profit on the food and drink.
If they did, Parliament would be running a business and that would come with a different set of legal responsibilities.
A team would be required to administer said business and staffing that team would cost the tax payer money - the way it is now, costs us nothing.
In the 30 plus years I have been going in and out of Parliament, I can hand on heart say that the politicians and staff I have encountered,
have been some of the most dedicated and hardest-working individuals I have come across.
None of the MPs I’ve had contact with inappropriately mix alcohol with work - many don’t drink alcohol at all and even choose not to drink alcohol at events held outside working hours.
To paint a picture of all MPs reeking of booze and stumbling into to the voting lobbies inebriated is inaccurate; no wonder the question was met with gasps of disbelieve and provided an open goal for our PM! I felt for the questioner.
I pledged to invest any savings I made in Parliament’s staff eateries and pay rises back into my community in my 2024 election campaign - that is always an option for MPs who want to pass on what they save to their communities.
Dorset Labour CANDICE JOHNSON-COLE
Rising unemployment is a national scandal
We are all paying heavily for the current political paralysis. In the light of the Government’s massive House of Commons majority, this crisis is unnecessary and unacceptable. Why is the Prime Minister surrendering his authority and allowing our country’s economy to drift perilously towards recession?
What and should Keir Starmer do? My advice is that he takes a leaf out of Sir John Major’s leadership manual and resigns while simultaneously offering himself for immediate reelection by Labour MPs. Such decisive action would clear the air and restore governance to our country. The Prime Minister’s challengers in the Labour Party should not be allowed to hold the country to ransom while deciding among themselves whether and if so, when, to remove their leader. If the Prime Minister really believed that the elected Mayor of Manchester was needed to
strengthen his government, he could have given him a peerage and a top ministerial post. Instead, by choosing Andy Burnham to be the Labour candidate in a by-election later in June, contrived by the Prime Minister’s enemies, the Prime Minister seems to be hoping that the electors of Makerfield will reject Burnham for his carpetbagging and Europhilia. If, as seems likely, Burnham’s defeat is the outcome, the Prime Minister will remain weakened by his own vacillation and ineptitude.
None of the Labour alternatives to Keir Starmer would be an improvement.
Indeed, in my view, all would be even worse because of their commitment to higher borrowing and debt, more burdensome regulations and taxation and increased dependence on the European Union and its commitment to open borders.
n Rising unemployment,
Conservative Christchurch & East Dorset
CHRIS CHOPE MP
particularly among those aged under 25, is a national scandal. One in every nine in that group is now on benefits. Things will only improve if the legislation which the Government has recklessly enacted over the last two years is repealed. Increases in National Insurance, tax, minimum wages and so-
called employment rights have tightened the labour market to the disadvantage of those without jobs.
For all its platitudes about being interested in working people, Labour’s policies have incentivised those who are not working while penalising those who are.
n A European reset as desired by the Government can only be at the cost of even higher levels of illegal immigration and its adverse impact on public services and the rule of law.
That more than 200,000 illegals have now crossed the Channel in small boats is a disaster and a reminder of the broken promises and misspent subsidies to the French.
The 10th anniversary of the decisive referendum to leave the European Union beckons and the case has never been stronger for ending appeasement to the European human rights lobby and restoring control over our national borders.
From war-torn Ukraine to peaceful Dorset
Wimborne’s Museum of East Dorset is set to host Occupied/Unoccupied - a deeply moving photography exhibition by Ukrainian photographer Iryna Sozanska, whose work captures the fragile line between survival and renewal.
In the early days of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Iryna photographed her family as they lived under occupation and survived evacuation. These images - once simple family snapshots - became symbols of endurance, carried through Russian checkpoints as her family fled their home. Now living in Ferndown, Iryna revisits those
photographs alongside new images of her family’s life in Dorset, revealing the quiet resilience of rebuilding a life in a new country. In one photograph, her children shelter behind a mattress as glass shatters during an attack; in another, those same children play freely on the hills of Badbury Rings. The contrast is stark, yet profoundly human - a testament to the strength of ordinary families living through extraordinary times. Alongside the photographs are personal objects connected to Iryna’s journey and a short film offering an immersive glimpse into the first days of the war. Together, they form
a powerful reflection on loss, survival and the meaning of home and on the kindness of those who opened their doors to displaced Ukrainians.
Iryna said: “Photography became my way to hold on - to remember, to process, and to rebuild. These images are about finding light again, even after everything changes.”
The exhibition runs from June 20 to September 26 at the Museum of East Dorset. Entry is free with normal museum entry. For more details, visit: museumofeastdorset. co.uk/occupied-unoccupied.
70% of adults in the UK have no Will
The UK is suffering from “wills apathy”, with more than 30 million adults failing to make provisions for when they die.
Dying intestate (without a Will) means the government will decide who gets what from your estate. Not having a Will could also result in Inheritance Tax being due before the estate is released. Grieving families may be forced to take out loans in order to release the assets.
But drawing up a Will doesn’t have to be a daunting or expensive process, a single Will costs £225 and a double Will is £375.
So what should I consider when making my Will? Executors – the person(s) who will carry out your wishes and apply for Probate. You must trust them implicitly.
Guardians – the person(s) who you trust to bring up your children should the worst happen to both parents.
Gifts – Often sentimental items that you want specific people to have.
Age of Inheritance – legally you can inherit at 18, is this too young? Maybe 21 or 25 would be better.
Funeral Requests – Buried, cremated, ashes scattered at sea etc.
Protesters gather at earl’s county estate
Thirty members of the Dorset Right to Roam group gathered at the Wimborne St Giles estatehome of the Earl of Shaftesbury - to raise awareness of the Earl’s ongoing role in the ecological collapse of Lough Neagh, of which he is the hereditary owner. On the same day, thousands marched around the largest freshwater lake in the UK and Ireland in Belfast, protesting its impending ecological collapse. The group had planned a peaceful trespass onto the estate to highlight the stark contrast between the Earl’s clean, private water in Dorset and the lough he owns in Northern Ireland.
staff to prevent access. The group thus conducted a supervised walk into the village of Wimborne St Giles, overseen by estate workers. The group’s message was delivered regardless.
The Dorset Right to Roam campaign is a local affiliate of the national Right to Roam movement, which advocates for expanded access to the countryside in England. Currently, 92% of land and 73% of woodland in England is off limits to the public. The campaign seeks to introduce legislation mirroring Scotland’s Land Reform Act, which gives
Award-winning dementia care programme supports Care South residents and families
From personalised sensory activities to dementia-focused dining experiences, Care South is delivering a person-centred approach to dementia care across its homes.
The not-for-profit residential and care at home provider runs many dementia care initiatives including Namaste care, which promotes a holistic, person-centered approach to caring for people living with advanced dementia. Namaste sessions take place in a calm, relaxed environment in the care homes with low lighting and sensory activities including music, movement and aromatherapy, day or night, depending on the individual resident’s needs in the present moment.
All of Care South’s homes, based across Dorset, Somerset and Devon, also focus on another initiative, Dining for Dementia. It involves every member of the care, catering and activities teams at each home coming together to ensure that every resident has a positive experience when eating and drinking. This includes updated dining rooms with additional homely touches, contrasting cutlery, visual menus and show plates.
Staff from each home also undertake a unique training experience known as the Virtual Dementia Tour, which is the only scientifically and medically proven method of giving a person with a healthy brain the experience of what it is like to live with dementia.
Care South recently received the Hennell Award for Innovation and Excellence in Dementia Care from the University of Worcester’s Association for Dementia Studies, recognising its in-house Dementia Care Coach training programme led by Karen Hodges, Group Dementia Lead at Care South. Staff across all homes and care at home
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offices have completed the training, with Dementia Care Coaches supporting colleagues, residents and clients to enhance dementia care and wellbeing.
Karen also supports the care homes to run dementia care information sessions for individuals and relatives of loved ones living with dementia. Visitors from the local community and relatives of residents gather for informal group sessions to share experiences, discuss challenges and gain practical advice on supporting loved ones throughout their dementia journey.
Care South has care homes across Dorset, north Devon and Somerset, and care at home offices covering Dorset and Somerset.
Earlier this year, Care South was named as one of the UK’s Top 20 Care Home Groups in the Mid-Size Large Group category at the Care Home Awards 2026 based solely on reviews from residents, relatives and their loved ones.
Resident Mary taking part in a Namaste session in a Care South home
Care South runs its own Dining for Dementia initiative
New extension at Julia’s House hospice
Julia’s House children’s hospice has officially opened a new extension to its Corfe Mullen hospice, providing additional space and care facilities for the families, children and young people the charity supports in the local community. The hospice, in Springdale Road, has seen the demand for its specialist care increase, with more children being born and living longer with complex, life-limiting conditions.
The extension features new equipment and spaces that will better meet the needs of the older children Julia’s House supports as well as improvements to its end-of-life suite. Wider corridors and ramps can now accommodate the larger electric wheelchairs used by lots of the young people. An improved upstairs bathroom means older children can enjoy an immersive bathing experience complete with underwater disco lights and bubbles!
And there’s a hoist between the upstairs bathroom and bedroom allowing more privacy for the young people who visit the hospice on a regular basis.
There is a larger bedroom downstairs in the hospice’s Mermaid Suite, with a second bedroom for parents and a large bathroom in
between so children can use a hoist to easily move through from their bedroom into the bathroom and into their parents’ room. The new rooms have new names too, Lighthouse and Beach Hut - to reflect the seaside location - and plenty of bed spaces for the whole family.
This more spacious layout will enable families to have their own private space to be all together and have the closeness they need when they are being supported at the end of their child’s life.
The extension has been fully funded by a one-off Government capital grant and contributions from a number of capital
trusts, so has not impacted the ongoing costs of providing care.
The improvements were designed by architects, Corstorphine & Wright, who provided a significant amount of their time as a gift-in-kind.
Local commercial design and refurbishment specialists, Jade Aden Interiors, long-time supporters of Julia’s House, undertook the refurbishment project on site.
Julia’s House receives just eight per cent ongoing Government funding and continues to be reliant on donations and fundraising from local people, businesses and organisations to provide its vital care.
‘I became someone I recognised again’
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Barry’s story is exactly why I love what I do, says Nicki Edwards
Barry’s story says it all. From a 42-inch waistline to a slim 32, with support, structure and habits that truly changed his life.
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“I lost three stone, seven pounds in just eight months and I’m delighted to say that I have put my diabetes into remission and my blood
tests are all healthy.
“The reflection in the mirror became someone I recognised again.”
Summer can feel busy.
“Plans change, weekends fill up and suddenly you are grabbing whatever is easiest and hoping for the best.”
That’s why I love this Plan. No prepping, no guessing, not much washing up either! Just simple structured choices that fit real life and still help you move towards your goals. Whether you want to feel lighter, more confident, have more energy or simply get back in control before the holidays, tI can help you find the right plan for you. Message me today and let’s talk about your summer transformation.
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Roads to Rail Roads to Rail
Experience the magic of steam in the heart of the Isle of Purbeck.
Join us for a spectacular celebration of vintage heritage, live music, and family fun — all alongside the famous Swanage Railway.
go to Swanagerailway.co.uk to find out more
Making the most of Retirement
Wimborne u3a FREE open morning
Saturday 20th June 10am until midday
Allendale Community Centre, Wimborne
Up to 60 groups and courses to explore - from languages and walking to dance, IT, sport, arts, history and more. Meet our welcoming group leaders and find out what u3a life in Wimborne is all about.
A vibrant, friendly community for retired and semiretired people who want to stay active, social and curious.
For more information about our groups please visit our website www.wimborneu3a.org.uk or for specific enquiries, contact Janet Isaac on jisaac.sams@gmail.com
What u3a has to offer
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Wimborne u3a is inviting people to a special open morning on Saturday, June 20 - a free community event showcasing the wide range of learning and leisure opportunities available to retired and semi retired residents in the area.
The event will run from 10am to midday at the Allendale Centre and will be officially opened by the mayor of Wimborne. Visitors will be able to explore up to 60 groups and courses, covering everything from languages, walking and dance to IT, sport, arts, history and more. Group leaders will be on hand throughout the morning to chat, answer questions and help people find activities that match their interests.
Chairman of Wimborne u3a Ashley Rowlands said: “There’s so much on offer locally from
Wimborne u3a and the open morning is the perfect chance to explore it all in one place. “People are often surprised by the variety and by how friendly and relaxed the u3a atmosphere is.”
Wimborne u3a offers a vibrant programme of learning, leisure and social activities designed to help people stay active, curious and connected in later life. Membership continues to grow as more residents discover the benefits of shared learning and new friendships.
For more information, visitwimborneu3a.org.uk.
For specific enquiries, contact Janet Isaac on jisaac.sams@ gmail.com.
Exhibition is a bit special
The Barrington Centre and Ferndown Town Council welcomed Ferndown Art Society for a special exhibition as part of Dorset Art Weeks. The exhibition featured an exceptional collection of artwork, including over one hundred paintings in various mediums, highlighting the remarkable talent and creativity of local artists from across the community. Visitors were captivated by the outstanding quality and diversity of the pieces on display, with many expressing their admiration for the talent showcased throughout the
weekend. Several pieces were also sold and will now undoubtedly be brightening up the homes of local residents.
Town clerk Liz Bishopp said: “We’re thrilled to have hosted such a successful event and hope this marks the beginning of a long and exciting partnership, celebrating and supporting our wonderful local artists for years to come.”
SOUTH WESTERN MODEL RAILWAY CLUB
First Model Rail Showcase. Sunday, July 12, at Cobham’s Sports and Social Club, Merley Park Road, Wimborne. 12 model railway layouts. Although mainly fully operational, the aim is to give potential model makers the opportunity to see how they are constructed and operated. Hands-on demonstrations, plus a chance to operate the model trains.
Admission £4, accompanied children under 16 free.
GLOBAL FAIR
June 27, 2026, 11am-4pm, Walford Mill, Wimborne. Free. Discover cultures, share traditions, and learn about the environment family-friendly. West African storytelling and music, samba drumming workshop, Indian dancing. Free children’s arts and crafts activities. Food and drinks from Little Pickle at the Mill cafe Part of Wimborne Town of Culture 2026.
Ringwood & Fordingbridge Club for the Blind — Friendship, Fun and a Fabulous Cream Tea
The Ringwood & Fordingbridge Club for the Blind hosted a hugely successful Cream Tea last Thursday, thanks to the culinary skills of the ladies at Damerham Village Hall. It brought members together for a joyful afternoon of friendship, fresh scones and community spirit. These events are at the heart of what we do—creating safe, social spaces for people living with sight loss to connect and thrive.
We support blind and partially sighted residents across Ringwood, Fordingbridge and surrounding villages with regular meetings, activities, outings and companionship.
If you know anyone who would enjoy being part of our friendly group, we’d love to hear from you.
New Volunteers Welcome: We warmly welcome anyone who would like to volunteer and help us keep the club running for our members. Interested in Volunteering, Contact Kate or Hilary below
Kate Henderson KandKHendy@gmail.com 01425 476568
Hilary Walker hilary@peterwalker.info 01425 471236
Kids go Free to the Chalke History Festival – 22-28 June
The Chalke History Festival, 22-28
June - the UK’s leading celebration of history – returns to its stunning venue in Broad Chalke this month, bringing the past vividly to life through a rich programme of top-class talks, wide-ranging discussions, striking performances and dynamic living history experiences.
Sponsored by Evelyn Partners, this year’s event promises to be one of the stand-out occasions of the summer calendar, attracting the very top names and boasting a lineup of leading historians, household names and expert commentators whose views and analysis of both historical events and current world affairs are second to none. Alongside a tantalising line up of talks, discussions and debates, the programme for fans of getting up close and personal with history through immersive experiences, theatrical performances, hands-on activities and live music is more varied and eye-catching than ever before. Even better, all children, 15 and under go free to Chalke.
Plenty of VIP names will be speaking and mingling with the crowds, with some attending the festival for the first time, include Mary Beard, James Naughtie, Anne Applebaum, Alexander Armstrong, Harriet Walter, Anthony Scaramucci, Alan Titchmarsh, Antony Beevor, Tracy Borman and Tony Robinson.
Elsewhere on the festival site, visitors will have a feast of different activities to choose from. As well as the reconstruction of a magnificent late Iron Age Romano-British chariot by a team of artisans using ancient techniques, Abs Wisdom will delight with his Wizzo’s Rip-Roaring History old-time circus sideshow. There will be plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained too, including: the Rattlebox Theatre and Angel Heart Theatre with their blend of puppetry, storytelling and larger-thanlife characters; historic garden games like sack races, rolling hoops, skittles, and croquet; plus, interactive workshops offering tablet weaving and medieval calligraphy, and a chance for the little ones to try their hand at sword-fighting, archery, or axe-throwing.
Chalke would not be Chalke without that little bit ‘extra’ that makes the festival so special. From exquisite meals in the fine dining tent, mouth-watering local produce, street food and ice creams, thirst-quenching drinks at the Chalke Valley Tap, to vintage clothing and jewellery in the Emporium, the festival promises a truly wonderful day out. And it doesn’t stop there. The midsummer evenings provide a chance to swap ideas with fellow history buffs over a glass of something chilled by the firepit or dance the night away to ABBA’s Angels or The Brass Funkeys.
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Those who choose to glamp or camp under the stars will be glad the commute home is only up the hill, a matter of minutes away.
The Chalke History Festival, 22-28 June, will take place at Church Bottom, Broad Chalke, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP5 5DP. Book now www.chalkefestival.com
Anthony Scaramucci and Living Historians at Chalke History Festival. Photo: Martin Cook
Crowds listening to Living Historians at Chalke. Photo: Ash Mills.
Time to experience the magic of Don Williams
The UK’s only Don Williams tribute band are delighted to perform their new show for you featuring even more of those classic songs.
With the release of the new album
‘Epilogue - The Cellar Tapes’ at the end of May of newlydiscovered recordings from more than 40 years ago, the Gentle Giant’s popularity remains as big as ever.
wonderful shows featuring a fantastic collection of songs, ‘I Recall A Gypsy Woman’, ‘I Believe In You’, ‘She’s In Love With A Rodeo Man’, ‘You’re My Best Friend’ and ‘Tulsa Time’.
Come and enjoy the magic as you are guaranteed to be tapping your toes and singing along…. Thursday, July 9, 7.30pm, Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne.
Tickets £23.50.
A stellar group of musicians led by actor Mark Osmond as Don Williams recreate those
Box office: 01202 885566. Visit tivoliwimborne.co.uk and tulsatimeband.com.
stouravonmagazine.co.uk
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
I’m back again writing the column, after handing over the reins to Steve, one of our many valued volunteers.
Hopefully, you are all enjoying reading the column written by different people, all of whom have their own stories to share. Since I last wrote I was invited to talk on Radio Wimborne (94.6 FM) and join Malcom and Glen on their Monday Brunch show. They are lovely engaging gents who were happy to chat with me about raising awareness about our Spring Fayre which was on May 16, as well as all that goes on at High Mead farm during our week, when we have our co-farmers and volunteers here at the Farm.
Hopefully, some of you will have tuned in and listened to it. I have always loved the power of
radio and to have one specifically about Wimborne is a great asset as well as providing a source of information about where we live. We were all nervous about the weather for our Spring Fayre as, originally, on the long term forecast there was a storm predicted. Thankfully, the weather stabilised and we had some sunshine, some winds and a bit of rain. Despite this we had plenty of people come to enjoy the day.
We had dancing from Quayside Cloggies, dancing, BSA bikes, vintage tractors, tombola, name the teddy bear, stalls, ferret racing, chicken poo bingo, crockery smash, a barbecue and a bar and live music from Three Piece Suite.
As with all these events the day flew by, as we were all busy
Farming & Environment
walking around and talking to every one and watching the show. Sadly, because of the weather, there was a lower turnout, so I entered Yogi into the dog show for the final category - fastest sausage eater.
This turned out a huge mistake - I think he managed to eat it after around 35 seconds - the winner ate theirs in two seconds!! Maybe next year I will enter him in for the waggiest tail category... It’s always sad at the farm the
week after the Fayre, as we take all our signs and bunting down and dismantle the marquee, sort through the rubbish and balance the books.
I am glad to confirm that we made some money from the event, all of which goes directly back into the farm - it’s our only fundraising event for the year and much loved by the local community, so thank you everyone for spending the day with us here at High Mead Farm.
Farming & Environment
Sustainable food supply chains in farming
Earlier in the year I attended the Sustainable Food Conference 2026. This conference brought together the whole food industry, with stakeholders from all the major food retailers and big brands from the UK and Europe. The focus was on how the industry are addressing sustainability of their supply chains, from the farmers to their customers. The big topics were:
Regenerative farming: this method of farming aims to work alongside nature and to produce healthy food from farming methods that put back more than they take out. Integration of livestock allows farmers to reduce the reliance on artificial fertilisers to produce crops sustainably with a lower carbon footprints and positive environmental outcomes.
Healthy food: with the UK facing an obesity pandemic many customers are now ranking healthy food choices in their top three priorities. There is increasing information regarding the health risks of ultra processed foods. As people improve their diets the demand for fresh produce is growing. The industry faces challenges around education, especially how to prepare and cook fresh food from scratch with a lack of education at school level and beyond.
Decarbonising the supply chain: Big companies and the UK have committed to NET zero targets. They are looking at the whole supply chain, with lots of money been invested in green technology such as solar panels on factories, electric lorries and right down to more energy efficient refrigeration. There is a big campaign to increase freezer temperatures from -18oc to -15oc across the food industry. This alone will save 10% of energy costs associated with the chilling of food. Food waste: Statistics suggest a third of all food produced globally is thrown away. The UK alone wastes approximately 9.52 million tonnes of food yearly. The average UK person wastes 70kg of food yearly, equivalent to 140 meals. Big supermarkets and food producers have targets to reduce this
Recruitment
massive figure. This is one of the most shocking aspects of food production, if we can tackle this big issue and tackle issues of redistribution of food to people that need it, then we can feed a growing world population without the need to increase the land used for agriculture. I was at the conference with both my farmer and veterinary hat on. I was promoting that an Animal Health Focused approach is essential for companies to achieve their sustainability goals. Farmers that engage with the vets and adopt preventative health care strategies have much healthier and more productive animals. Each kilogram of meat or milk produced from healthier animals has a much lower
2040. This in my opinion is very misguided and misleading the public and industry as a whole. With growing global demand for meat and milk, other countries will fill this demand if we don’t. These countries may not be able to produce food as sustainably as the UK leading to increases in global emissions and land use. The government targets to reduce animal numbers will inevitably achieve their own goals at the expense of world greenhouse gas emission targets.
I am immensely proud of UK agriculture, although our farmers and growers already do amazing work, we can keep improving, but this requires the backing of both government and the public. So, get behind our British farmers by buying British and help to reduce our reliance on imported food with higher environmental and carbon footprints.
John Walsh
friarsmoorlivestockhealth co uk
farmoffice@friarsmoorlivestockhealth co uk 01258 472314
friarsmoorlivestockhealth
Cyber Security Analyst
Suitable for a recent graduate with a Cyber Security Degree working for a North Dorset Cyber Security Company
Full-time position on initial 12 months fixed term contract
Located in North Dorset
Apply in writing with CV and covering letter to: sysdevgradsdorset@protonmail.com
Cook
Required | Thu-Sun | Up to £42,000 | Nr
Shaftesbury
A family of four is seeking a passionate and talented cook to prepare fresh, seasonal meals using home-grown produce, with occasional dinner parties to a high standard. The ideal candidate will be reliable, organised, and confident preparing a variety of dishes. This role could suit an experienced private cook, a recent culinary graduate, or a talented cook looking to develop their career in a private household setting.
Experience catering for dinner parties or events would be advantageous but is not essential. Due to the rural location, you must have a full driving licence and access to a vehicle. Accommodation is available.
For further details and to apply, please email your CV to: familycookrecruitment@gmail.com
IT Engineer
Seeking an IT Engineer to support staff and infrastructure worldwide working for a North Dorset Electronics Company
Full-time position on initial 12 months fixed term contract
Located in North Dorset
Apply in writing with CV and covering letter to: sysdevgradsdorset@protonmail.com
Home & Garden
Stewarts’ Grill Fest is set to be the best!
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After a hugely successful second year, Stewarts Grill Fest returns for 2026 and it’s bigger, tastier and more hands-on than ever. Designed especially for outdoor cooking enthusiasts, Grill Fest is all about helping you get more from your barbecue, pizza oven or fire pit at home. Whether looking to improve your alfresco cooking skills, learn new techniques, or simply cook better food outdoors, this is for you. This year sees the introduction of new on-stage cooking demonstrations, once again expertly compered by Andrew Dickenson. Watch top outdoor cooking brands in action as they share practical tips, techniques and inspiration you can recreate on your own kit in your garden at home. Selected brands will also host interactive cook-along sessions, giving you the chance to cook side by-side with the experts using the equipment you already
own or are thinking of buying. Local food producers will be on hand with outstanding seasonings, rubs and condiments to elevate your barbecue dishes, alongside free food samples cooked throughout the day. Talk directly to the brands, taste what they’re cooking, and pick up advice tailored to your home set-up. Relax with delicious local drinks from the bar while enjoying live music and the on-stage demos, and if you’re bringing the family, there’ll be a little selection of kids’ entertainment to keep younger visitors happy while you focus on the food.
Not sure which barbecue, pizza oven or accessories are right for you? Curious about cooking on a fire bowl? Or just want a brilliant summer day out filled with great food, music and atmosphere? Our back yard will host leading outdoor cooking brands, live demonstrations and plenty to see, taste and try.
Visit stewarts.co.uk/grillfest.
EX-DISPLAY SHEDS, Stables/field shelters, summerhouses, offices, workshops, agricultural 01935 891195
UK’s mobile phone driving law: Fines, points and rules
More than half (59%) of drivers admit to using their mobile phone while driving, despite the risks and penalties involved. This guide explains what you can and can’t do when using your phone behind the wheel.
l Mobile phone use is one of the UK’s most common driving offences, with over 70,000 fines issued in the last 3 years
l Even hands-free use isn’t risk-free, with reaction times around 30% slower than the drink-driving limit
l Using a handheld phone includes more than callstexting, scrolling, music control and sat nav changes all count l AI cameras are increasingly used to detect offences, with over a quarter (26%) identified this way
l Phones can only be used
legally when fully parked, with the engine off, and you are not in control of the vehicle.
Using a handheld phone while driving can result in: £200 fine
6 penalty points on your licence Court fines of up to £1,000 Possible driving disqualification in serious cases
If you’re a new driver (passed within the last 2 years), getting 6 penalty points means you automatically lose your licence. These offences are recorded on your driving record and can also affect your car insurance costs in the future.
Local family run business Vehicle MOTs, Servicing and Repairs. All makes and models.
We take pride in offering servicing & repairs at affordable prices.
All makes & models welcome including Vans
Fixed Price Servicing
M.O.T.s while you wait
Loan cars available
Air conditioning centre (all makes)
Diagnostics
Tyres (at competitive prices)
The Detached Unit, 32 Canford Bottom, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 2HD 01202 882261
www.hillandson.org service@hillandson.org
*Service price is dependent on engine and oil grade*
10% DISCOUNT applied to all new customers, find us on Facebook
2017 (17) Ford KA+ 1.2 Zetec 5dr. 85bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, parking sensors, cruise control, hill hold, air con, Bluetooth, upto 56mpg economy, small exterior with a spacious interior, 76,900 miles ....................................£6450
2007 (07) Alfa Romeo 159 Lusso 3.2V6 JTS Q4 4x4 4dr. 260bhp, 4-wheel drive, clearance car, not perfect as its old, invoices for ££££’s spent, collector enthusiast car, 98,500 miles ..............................................
£5000
2023 (72) Mercedes-Benz V-Class V220 2.0CDi Sport Automatic 6 Seat MPV. 163bhp, Luxury travel, 6 captain seats, massive spec plus factory extras, simply stunning vehicle, 45,500 miles £39500
2008 (58) BMW Z4 Roadster 2.5si SE Convertible 2dr. 218bhp, clearance car, MOT Nov, not perfect as its old, starts & drives well, needs work, coolant leak, suspect head gasket, 96,000 miles £2000
2012 (62) Ford Ka 1.2 Studio 3dr. 69bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, £35 yearly tax, 50+mpg, simple car with basic spec, cambelt replaced, MOT Nov 2025, private sale on behalf of a customer, 73,500 miles .......................................£2950
2006 (06) Mercedes-Benz CLK200 1.8 Kompressor Sport Automatic Convertible 2dr. 163bhp, petrol, 5 speed auto gearbox, recent new roof & shocks absorbers, full history, 15 stamps, heated leather, electric roof, auto lights & wipers, cruise, park sensors, MOT June 25, private sale on behalf of a customer, 77,500 miles ...........................................................................................................£4250
2019 (19) Mitsubishi ASX 1.6 Juro 5dr. 115bhp, high seating, big boot, high spec, 82,500 miles................................................................... £7950
2005 (55) BMW 525i Touring 2.5i SE Estate. 215bhp, Old high mileage clearance car, lovely straight 6 engine, MOT Sept, high spec, not perfect as its old, 227,000 miles
2014 (14) Ford Kuga 2.0TDCi Titanium X AWD 4x4 SUV 5dr. 163bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, 4x4, high seats, leather, heated seats, heated screen, sat nav, park sensors, auto park, reverse camera, sunroof, auto lights & wipers, cruise, lane aid, sign recognition, hill hold, electric tailgate, cambelt replaced, 92,500 miles .........£7450
£1000
2012 (62) Ford Ka 1.2 Studio 3dr. 69bhp, £35 tax, 55mpg, simple basic small car, 82,900 miles
£2250
2019 (19) Ford Focus 1.0T Titanium X Nav 5dr. 125bhp, top of the range, massive spec, later type chain driven engine, 67,800 miles
2020 (69) Ford Tourneo Custom 2.0TDCi Titanium 320 L1 H1 Automatic 9 Seat Minibus 5dr. 130bhp, diesel, 6 speed automatic gearbox, 8 seat plus driver, reversable seats for conference or forward facing, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, heated front seats, park sensors, cambelt replaced, 97,000 miles ............£21500 + VAT = £25800
£9250
2005 (55) Ford Focus 2.0 Ghia Automatic 5dr. Only 47,500 miles, great spec, MOT April 2027, not perfect as its old, cheap low mileage automatic with only 47,500 miles
£2850
2020 (69) Ford Transit 2.0TDCi Trend 350 MWB MR L2 H2 11 Seat Minibus 5dr. 130bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, 10 seat plus driver, 2 front seats, 9 rear seats, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, heated front seats, hill hold, cambelt replaced, 90,200 miles.........................£19500 + VAT = £23400
2018 (18) Ford Transit Connect T200 1.5TDCi Van 5dr. 100bhp, material lined, bulkhead delete, 2 seats, no vat to pay, 58,300 miles
£8750
2018 (18) Ford Transit Connect T200 1.5TDCi Van 5dr. 75bhp, ply lined, 2 seats, no vat to pay, cambelt kit replaced, 139,500 miles.............. £5500
2014 (64) Kia Venga 3, 1.6 Automatic (Sat Nav) 5dr. 123bhp, petrol, 4 speed automatic gearbox, high seating, decent boot, sat nav, parking sensors & reverse camera, electric sunroof, partial leather, heated seats, cruise control, sign recognition, hill hold, only 38,800 miles........................................................£7850
2016 (65) Honda Civic 1.8 SE Plus 5dr. 140bhp, very high spec, full history, 127,200 miles
£5250
2016 (66) Mazda 3, 2.0 SE-L Nav Automatic 5dr. 120bhp, petrol, 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, sign recognition, heated seats, hill hold, 75,900 miles...................................£8450
2015 (65) Peugeot 308 1.2THP Allure Automatic 5dr. 130bhp, petrol, 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, park sensors, reverse camera, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, hill hold, only £35 a year road tax, 50+mpg economy, cambelt has been replaced, 69,500 miles..............................................................DUE IN SOON
1995 (M) Saab 9000 2.0i CD 4dr. Old, rare, big, 31 years old, clearance car, needs work for MOT, ideal collector enthusiast car, 249,000 miles £1500
2019 (19) Renault Captur 1.5DCi Iconic Automatic SUV 5dr. 90bhp, diesel, 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, hill hold, high seating, sliding rear seats, upto 67mpg economy, 20,300 miles .........................................................................................................£12250
2019 (19) Suzuki Ignis 1.2 SZ3 5dr. 89bhp, great small car with low running costs, 50,500 miles £6950
2023 (23) Volkswagen T-Cross 1.0TSi Black Edition 5dr. 108bhp, high seating, decent boot, high specification, 21,800 miles £15250
2019 (69) Volkswagen Golf 1.6TDi Match Nav Estate 5dr. 113bhp, high spec, big load space, cambelt kit replaced, 76,800 miles ......... £9950
2017 (17) Vauxhall Astra 1.4 SRi 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, cruise control, pre-collision assist, sign recognition, hill hold, Bluetooth, 63,600 miles ..............................................£6950
2016 (66) Vauxhall Mokka 1.6CDTi SE 4x4 SUV 5dr. 136bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, 4 wheel drive, high seating, big boot, heated leather seats, heated steering wheel, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, hill hold, performance & economy, upto 60mpg, 65,500 miles ....................................£7250 WE BUY
2016 (66) Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0TDi R-Line Nav 5dr. 148bhp, stunning car, high seating, big boot, massive spec, cambelt kit replaced, only 54,600 miles £15850
Julia Roberts Films
Across
Killer Sudoku Pro
Across
1 A river seen by fellow in US city producing fodder plant (7)
1 A river seen by fellow in US city producing fodder plant (7)
5 Noted musical duo with amateur (4)
5 Noted musical duo with amateur (4)
10 Disclosed arrogance externally (7)
10 Disclosed arrogance externally (7)
Down
Down
2 Release Eastern European, it’s said, with energy (3,2)
2 Release Eastern European, it’s said, with energy (3,2)
3 Satiric actor in play of an elevated pedigree? (12)
3 Satiric actor in play of an elevated pedigree? (12)
4 Sea fit possibly for celebration? (6)
11 French marshal holding Western line in recent times (5)
11 French marshal holding Western line in recent times (5)
12 Eastern European fitting right into jacket (5)
12 Eastern European fitting right into jacket (5)
13 Lift note about hospital the previous day (6)
4 Sea fit possibly for celebration? (6)
6 Old British chancellor exceedingly clipped nonetheless (7)
7 Premier area for ancient civilization (4)
6 Old British chancellor exceedingly clipped nonetheless (7)
15 Troublesome person is ignored in shade (6)
13 Lift note about hospital the previous day (6)
17 Rise represented by artist in mountain range (6)
15 Troublesome person is ignored in shade (6)
17 Rise represented by artist in mountain range (6)
19 Rub out sixth letter on mug (6)
19 Rub out sixth letter on mug (6)
20 Element in flotilla was hardly floating (5)
23 I wander heading back for New Zealander (5)
20 Element in flotilla was hardly floating (5)
24 Work in Italy feasible? That’s a view (7)
25 Room that regularly has list of duties (4)
23 I wander heading back for New Zealander (5)
24 Work in Italy feasible? That’s a view (7)
25 Room that regularly has list of duties (4)
26 Intoxicated director to manage Barbie’s partner (7)
26 Intoxicated director to manage Barbie’s partner (7)
Killer Sudoku Pro:
8 Old clan mobilized in very old site of eruptions? (7)
7 Premier area for ancient civilization (4)
9 Note photo put up in a race as a foretaste (12)
8 Old clan mobilized in very old site of eruptions? (7)
14 A companion in underground area gets powered vehicle (7)
9 Note photo put up in a race as a foretaste
16 Insult a fellow with revolutionary group (7)
18 Writer with work on Miro provides diary (6)
14 A companion in underground area gets powered vehicle (7)
21 Wait for a tender piece of entrecote (5)
16 Insult a fellow with revolutionary group
22 Chieftain enters mosque miraculously (4)
18 Writer with work on Miro provides diary
21 Wait for a tender piece of entrecote (5)
22 Chieftain enters mosque miraculously (4)
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.
Might you be able to look after Mabel?
Mabel is a charming Pug/ French Bulldog with a huge character packed into her small frame!
Once she gets to know you and builds trust, she’ll shower you with love and affection - she just needs a little time to feel safe and secure first.
Since arriving with us, Mabel has grown in confidence every day. She’s learning to walk nicely alongside lots of different dogs, but deep down, she prefers to have all the attention to herself.
For that reason, Mabel is
looking for a home where she can be the only pet and enjoy being the centre of your world. She loves to play with her toys and has a real enthusiasm for food - which makes her training sessions both fun and rewarding!
If you’re looking for a loyal, loving companion who will bring plenty of personality (and smiles) into your life, Mabel might just be your perfect match.
If you are able to offer Mabel or any of her 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:
See our website for details
Saturday, 13th June: Corfe Mullen Carnival
Sunday, 21st June: Animal blessing service at Wareham United Reformed Church Sunday, 5th July: Broadstone Family Fun Day
Saturday, 11th July: Westival, Fryers Field, West Moors
Wednesday, 22nd July: Quiz Night in partnership with Plants & Minds, at Kinson Conservative Club.
Brain chain (hard)
The introduction of Child Focused Courts
ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
The Dorset area has been a part of the pilot of the ‘Pathfinder’ scheme since February 2022.
Since then, we at HGWalker have become well versed with the scheme and are pleased to see that, from Tuesday, March 17, the Child Focused Courts scheme has been rolled out to family courts nationally.
This model is based on a child-focused approach and is specifically designed to focus on safety, reducing conflict and reduce the length of court cases with an investigative, multi-agency approach encouraging early safeguarding.
Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary David Lammy said: “Court backlogs are not just numbers on a page.
“When it comes to the family courts, they represent victims waiting, families in limbo
and children and domestic abuse victims left to linger in harm’s way.
“That is why the national rollout of the Child Focused Courts matters so much.
“It will protect, support and hear the voices of children, helping family courts make safe and fair decisions without delay.
“It also shows that, through innovative reforms, we can make our courts work better, tackle delays and bring down the backlog so more victims and families get the swift justice they deserve.”
More information can be found at www.gov.UK.
Free Legal Advice Clinics
If you would like to understand how the Child Focused Courts model may affect your circumstances, our experienced family law team is here to help.
Speak to our Dorset family law team today for free, clear and confidential advice.
Colin Mitchell Solicitor, Head of Family
HGW Solicitors offers free legal advice clinics in Poole, West Moors, Ferndown, Christchurch and Wimborne. Receive expert guidance on your legal matters completely free and with no obligation.
For details of locations, dates, and times, please visit our website or call us for more information.
Weird property laws from around the world
After last month’s look at long-forgotten or quirky UK legislation, Armishaws
Removals can reveal some of the weird property laws influencing our neighbours around the world.
Singapore You could break the law simply by being naked.
In Singapore you’re legally required to be covered up when within view of your neighbours or the public, even in your home.
Hong Kong & New York
Despite being geographically separate, these two locations are joined by one curious law; it’s illegal to sell a home you believe to be haunted, without telling the buyers.
According to a poll by Cinch Home Services, 1 in 10 Americans polled, admitted to having ‘sold their home due to a paranormal experience’.
Thailand
It’s illegal to leave your home without wearing underwear.
Switzerland
In a country where large numbers of the population live close together, flushing the toilet after 10pm is prohibited.
Turin, Italy
Dog owners can be fined €500 if they don’t walk their dog at least three times a day,
Alabama, USA
It is against the law to chain your alligator to a fire hydrant outside your home.
France
If you’re lucky enough to own a property with a view of the Eiffel Tower, it’s illegal for anyone to build anything that permanently blocks that view.
Germany
If you want to paint your house, you’re legally obliged to seek the approval or your neighbours. Failure to do so can result in a court order to undo any changes.
Australia
Planning laws make it illegal to own more than two houses on a single block of land.
Uganda
Permission must be granted by the local authority to grow grass on your property, this is to prevent invasive grass species
harming the area’s ecosystem Aspen, USA
Section 15.04.210 of the Municipal Code makes it illegal to throw pretty much anything at a property, including snowballs.
Turkey
According to Turkey’s Act 2565, foreign buyers must apply to the government for permission to purchase property in the country.
Singapore
The Computer Misuse and Cybersecurity Act makes it an offence to use someone else’s wireless broadband signal without permission.
Barbados
In Barbados and some other Caribbean countries, it’s illegal to wear camouflage clothing, even while at home.
n For more property info and facts, head to Armishaws.com/ blog.
