The Purbeck Gazette - Issue 357

Issue 357

FREE EVERY FORTNIGHT

January 5, 2026

The Purbeck Gazette www.purbeckgazette.co.uk

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SKATEPARK IN THE MONEY FULL Project will share £20,000 with STORY: Herston Community Centre PAGE 3

PIPER PLAYS Concerts at Corfe Castle station Page 6

FEATHERED FRIENDS The RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch set to take place

Page 12

WHAT’S COOKING? Friendly Food Club courses in Swanage

Page 5

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What’s inside this issue...

Antiques & Collectibles

27

Arts & Entertainment

34-36

Business

30-31

Dorset HealthCare monthly round-up

n The teams at Swanage & Wareham Hockey club are holding their own at the halfway point of the season

Page 9

14

Events 35 Health & Wellbeing

24-25

Home & Garden

28-29

Local Services

37-39

Margaret Green Animal Rescue

15

Motoring 32 News from Wareham Town Council

7

Politics 23 Puzzles 16-17 Puzzle solutions

26

Reader’s picture

26

Spotlight Diary

37

Sport 33 Telling It Like It Is

18

Wanted 37 Winter Wellness

19-22

The Thatcher Papers, 60 documents that detail former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher’s rise to power, are coming up for sale Page 27 n

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Library puts on a bit of a spread

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Donna Garner

East Burton Village Hall events

10

Exploring Purbeck – East Lulworth

14

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EDITORIAL Paul Jones Editor-in-chief We love hearing your news and views.

Get in touch with us by emailing ed@purbeckgazette.co.uk Lloyd Armishaw Publisher ed@purbeckgazette.co.uk 01963 400186

Account Manager

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£20,000 boost for skatepark and community centre projects THE Swanage Skatepark project and Herston Community Centre are set to share a £20,000 windfall.

The money has come from Coca-Cola, in its 125th year in the UK, as part of a campaign celebrating the role of the community shop.

The drinks giant recognised Costcutter in Herston, owned by the Tomes family, as one of six retailers nationwide in its The Bosses campaign.

In turn, the family chose Swanage & Purbeck Development Trust (SPDT) as

its chosen charity, which is awarding the money to the skatepark and community centre.

The Tomes family, who have been in business in Swanage since 1908, said the two charities have ‘always been important to them’ and reflected the needs and spirit of the local area.

“It has been a privilege to have taken part in The Bosses campaign, and the family are very grateful to Coca-Cola for its generous support,” they said.

Herston Village Hall, built in

Herston Village Hall, which is nearing the end of its useful life, is set to be replaced by a community centre PHOTO: SPDT

1946 and now nearing the end of its useful life, is set to be replaced by a community centre.

Planning consent has been secured and SPDT is aiming to create an amenity that will serve all age groups.

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Should I set up a Lasting Power of Attorney?

A FRIEND has suddenly fallen ill, which has made me think about getting my affairs in order. I’ve heard of setting up a lasting power of attorney, but I don’t really know where to begin, or if I really need to, as I’m not very old.

Citizens Advice explains why you may want to consider setting up a lasting power of attorney (LPA)

THE first thing to know is that anyone can make a lasting power of attorney – it's not something purely for older people to consider.

Appointing a lasting power of attorney (LPA) means nominating someone such as a trusted friend or relative to act on your behalf and manage your finances, care or medical treatment, if you ever lose mental capacity. This could be because you're diagnosed with a health condition that prevents you from doing so, or something happens to you, such as an accident.

The kinds of illness which might prevent you from making decisions for yourself include dementia, mental health problems, a brain injury,

alcohol or drug misuse or the side-effects of medical treatment. Setting up an LPA doesn’t mean you’re expecting anything to happen, it’s something you might want to do in case something happens in the future.

There are two types of LPA, property and financial affairs, and health and welfare. You don't have to make both types at the same time, but you must make an LPA while you are still capable of making decisions for yourself. This is called having mental capacity. Both types must be registered before they can be used and you should choose who manages your affairs for you, if you’re no longer able to, very carefully.

A property and financial

There are two types of Lasting Power of Attorney: property and financial affairs, and health and welfare

affairs LPA gives someone the authority to deal with and make decisions about things like buying or selling property, bank, building society and other financial accounts, welfare benefits and debts. You can give someone power of attorney to deal with all of those affairs, or only certain things. If you want to make an LPA which only deals with certain matters, you should make sure that it’s drawn up very carefully.

A health and welfare LPA gives someone the authority to deal with and make decisions about things like where you live, your day-to-day care and your healthcare treatment – either for all aspects of your personal welfare, or only certain things. It's not possible to use a health and welfare LPA until the person who made it has lost their mental capacity.

There are two ways you can make an LPA – either online at gov.uk or by downloading the forms from gov.uk There is one form for property and affairs

and one for health and welfare.

If you want someone to look after both aspects, you’ll need two separate LPAs. Once completed, you’ll need to register the LPA by sending the forms to the Office of the Public Guardian. If you need to pay a registration fee, you'll need to send that too.

If the form has been correctly completed and there are no objections after people have been notified, the Public Guardian must register it. This can take around 20 weeks.

The Public Guardian must notify you and your attorneys that they have registered the LPA, and it can then be used.

You can find lots of information on LPAs and other shorter term power of attorneys by visiting the Citizens Advice website.

If you would like to speak to an adviser about setting up lasting power of attorney, please visit Citizens Advice East Dorset & Purbeck website www.edpcitizensadvice.org.uk or call the Dorset Adviceline on 0800 144 8848.

£20,000 boost for community projects Continued from page 3

“Herston has a big heart and loves all things local. This support helps us continue to build a space that reflects that spirit.”

The current hall is home to a Community Cafe and Pantry, Citizens Advice sessions, a library, pottery workshops, a baby and toddler group, youth club, craft sessions, Repair Café, jumble sales and the annual Party in the Park.

The Swanage Skatepark Community Project will receive funding towards Phase 2 of its

The money will pay for Phase 2 of the redevelopment of Swanage skate park

PHOTO: Andy Lyons

redevelopment.

Phase 1 building is already underway and the next phase will transform the remaining unused space in the skatepark with new lower-height ramps designed to support beginners while still appealing to more

advanced riders.

It will complete a multi-year fundraising and improvement programme.

Barry Mawson, Swanage Skatepark Community Project vice-chair, said: “This donation gives us a significant boost and

brings us closer to providing a fully updated skatepark for everyone in Swanage,”.

SPDT said: “This contribution is more than financial support – it represents the heart of Swanage.

“The Tomes family have served this town for generations and their commitment to our community continues to shine through.

“We are deeply grateful for their support and for CocaCola’s recognition of the importance of local places and people.”

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Food club all set to cook up a storm THE Friendly Food Club is all set to start a new course in Swanage this week.

The community cooking initiative got off to a good start with a dozen or more residents attending the first four sessions in the run up to Christmas.

Now it is planning to run two further six-week courses before Easter.

Hearty soups, healthy beanburgers and an affordable spaghetti bolognese using chicken mince will be among the recipes course participants will learn to cook.

The Friendly Food Club It aims to teach new skills to beginners and improvers and

inspire individuals to try new recipes.

The courses also aim to combat loneliness, and carers and support workers are welcome to attend.

Julie Bowerman, who is promoting the club, said: “The club works on so many levels – we have heard from a widowed man whose wife used to do all the cooking, someone else who only knows how to make microwave meals, other people who want company and someone whose diet had become very restrictive and wanted to learn new recipes.

“All have benefited from coming to these sessions and

The Friendly Food Club is planning to run two six-week courses in Swanage before Easter

found a new confidence with their cooking.”

The Friendly Food Club is a Wimborne-based charity which has run food education projects across Dorset for over 12 years.

It has run one-off events in Swanage promoting healthy eating before, but this is the first time it has staged a course over several weeks.

Julie added: “We would like to thank all the Swanage volunteers we have had to help run these sessions.

“We have also been backed by the Swanage and Purbeck Development Trust, Wellbeing Swanage, Planet Purbeck and Swanage Food Bank.

“We were given a whole table of fruit and bread to share by the Swanage Community Larder and the Co-op which would otherwise have gone to waste.”

Food club participants arrive in time for a cup of coffee, then watch a cookery demonstration before preparing their own dish or working in pairs.

Everything is provided to make the dishes, which participants can eat at the end of the two-hour session or take away to serve up at home.

The next six-week course starts on Thursday, January 8, at the United Reformed Church.

Free places can be booked online at www.friendlyfoodclub.org

All residents with a DT, SP or BH postcode can visit Monkey World for half the usual entry price.

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Ticket to ride to carol concerts

TWO popular evening Christmas carol concert trains have brought festive joy and cheer to Corfe Castle’s Victorian station, which played host to a choir, a band and a talented teenager playing the bagpipes.

Special steam evening trains ran on two Thursdays before Christmas, from Swanage station to Corfe Castle, where the concerts of songs and carols took place.

Singers and musicians performed in the station’s restored Victorian goods shed, which houses Swanage Railway museum.

The concerts featured the Carol Train Singers – conducted by musical director Angus Murray-Brown, from Swanage – the Tuxedo Brass Quartet and teenager Freddie Sills, who played the bagpipes in classic Highland dress, including a tartan kilt.

The Carol Train Singers choir was specially formed for the festive concerts with its members being drawn from the Harmony Rocks choir based at Harman’s Cross Village Hall.

The Tuxedo Brass Quartet is based in Swanage with Angus Murray-Brown’s wife Jacqui being a member of the group.

Freddie Sills, 18, who lives near Wareham, is a former member of the Swanage Railway’s Sygnets youth group

and has been playing the bagpipes for eight years.

Freddie played seven classic Scottish marches and ballads during the carol concert – the three welcoming the steam train as it ran into Corfe Castle station and passengers disembarked, three during the concert and the last as the steam train departed Corfe Castle for Swanage.

Train passengers had the chance to enjoy mince pies and mulled wine when they arrived at Corfe Castle station, to add to the festive atmosphere.

Bob Bunyar and his wife Sue, who live in Swanage, organised the carol concerts.

A dedicated Swanage Railway volunteer for almost 40 years, Bob is part of the team that maintains the heritage line’s station at Harman’s Cross.

Swanage Railway chief executive officer, Abbie King, said: “Seeing the carol trains return has been truly special.

“Bringing this much-loved tradition back to the railway has reminded us what the Swanage Railway is really about – bringing people together.

“From Swanage to Harman’s Cross and Corfe Castle, the sound of carols travelling along the line has connected our communities, created shared

Singers and musicians performed in the restored Victorian goods shed at Corfe Castle station

PHOTOS: Andrew PM Wright

moments of joy and shown the railway at its very best – warm, welcoming and at the heart of the places we serve.”

Event organiser, Bob Bunyar, said: “Both Christmas carol trains soon sold out and there was a wonderful atmosphere at Corfe Castle station as the passengers joined in with the carol singing.

“The carol trains were great festive fun and a chance for people to enjoy carol singing – a great mix of steam, a train ride, community singing, tasty mince pies and mulled wine, plus the evocative Scottish bagpipes.

“As passengers got off the steam train back at Swanage, there were many gratifying comments of thanks and praising what a lovely evening it was, so I think the Christmas concerts really went down well.

“A lot of detailed work has

gone on behind the scenes to plan, prepare and stage the two festive concerts at Corfe Castle station and I would like to thank everyone for all their hard work – and for the public supporting the event so wonderfully.

“I would also like to thank Celia Harding, who volunteers at the Corfe Castle station museum in the Victorian goods shed, for her help and for being able to use the museum, which was an ideal setting for the carol concerts.

“Planning for the Christmas carol trains started on a very hot day in June when musical director Angus Murray Brown, and his wife Jacqui, met my wife Sue and I in our garden in Swanage to formulate plans for the two festive events.

“The sight, and sound, of Freddie Sills playing his Scottish bagpipes as the steam train departed Corfe Castle station after the carol concert was pretty awesome.

“He’s an excellent piper and certainly added to the atmosphere and poignancy of the evening.”

GOT A STORY? Then email ed@purbeckgazette.co.uk

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News from Wareham Town Council – December report

by Julie Bradshaw AT the December meeting, Wareham Town Council formally presented its grants and we learnt how the various organisations would use the money.

Sustainable Wareham will transform the graveyard behind the United Reformed Church into ‘a place for people’ while being respectful of the dead. Wareham Men’s Shed has recently moved to Lectonbury and will make adjustments to the barn for accessibility. Wareham Community Growers will be funding Northmoor Wildlife Haven. Wareham and District Swimming Club is building up again after Covid and welcoming new members.

Purbeck Youth and Community Foundation hosts the Family Hub as well as the

PHOTO: Simon Barnes

Youth Club.

The town council values the work of the volunteers who greatly enhance the character of the town by organising the Father Christmas parade, the Christmas lights and Wareham Carnival. The carnival committee will be able to replace the town bunting.

Wareham Town Band will use its grant to buy new scores to update its repertoire. Wareham Choral Society will put the money towards its concert on Saturday, April 25.

The grant for the Disabled Club was timely as the tail lift on one of its buses, which are also used by the Visually Impaired and Youth Clubs, had broken that day.

Councillors again voiced concerns about the siting of a skate park on the Sward, mainly the danger of crossing the road near the top roundabout. The town clerk cited the skate park on a similar site in Dorchester. It is believed that Dorset Council does not want a permanentlooking structure on the Middle School playing field site.

The pedestrian and cycle path across the bypass railway bridge will not go ahead. A cycle path will be built along the A351 between Sandford Primary School and the Holton Heath traffic lights on

the opposite side of the road to the pavement.

In response to a request from Wareham Town Council, Dorset Council will now accept input from the town council on tree preservation orders and associated planning applications.

The next Wareham Town Council meetings are in the council chamber on Tuesdays January 27, and February 24, starting at either 7pm or 7.30pm depending on whether there is a planning and transport meeting first. Further information is available on the council’s website, www. wareham-tc.gov.uk, or by phoning the town council office on 01929 553006.

Thank You To All Our Guests Your Support Made 2025 a Year to Remember The Village Inn is Closed on Friday 10th Jan for some exciting changes We Can’t wait to share them with you when we reopen on Sunday 1st Feb bookings@ulwellvillageinn.co.uk

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Charity ‘lifeline’ during Chloe’s cancer scare A YOUNG healthcare worker from Portland has paid tribute to a Dorset charity which helped her afford twice-weekly trips for cancer treatment.

Chloe Fitch, 22, was diagnosed with a Melanoma on her right hand in March.

She said: “I went to the doctor because I had a mole that seemed to be changing in shape and colour. I was advised it was probably nothing and to get it lasered off. But when I looked up the cost it was expensive and I left it.

“The mole still seemed to be getting bigger though and started raising off the skin.

Luckily, I received a letter calling me for an appointment at Dorchester hospital with a dermatologist.”

Chloe recalled: “I was with my dad and step mum when I was told I had skin cancer.

“I knew it was something serious because a specialist nurse came into the room before they delivered the news.

“Even so, it was a terrible shock to be told I had cancer and that it needed to be removed immediately.”

Melanoma is a serious type of skin cancer because of its potential to spread to other parts of the body if untreated.

Chloe added: “I thought about all the things that could have caused this to happen to me at such a young age.

“I have always been paleskinned and burned easily in the sun, which can make you more prone to Melanoma.

Chloe Fitch received financial help from the Dorset Cancer Care Foundation

“I also used sunbeds occasionally to give me some colour. Looking back now I regret that 100% and would never contemplate using one again.”

The operation to remove the cancerous mole took place at Salisbury Hospital.

In a second op, skin was taken from Chloe’s left arm and grafted onto her right hand.

She said: “I had to take time off work from my job as a healthcare worker for both surgeries and couldn’t use my right hand properly for few weeks afterwards.

“My dad took me back and forth to Salisbury about 20 times for all the appointments, which took a lot of time and cost a lot in petrol.

“After the first op I went onto half pay and was worried about my bills – I pay rent to my dad and step-mum and have a phone contract, and I was aware how much the travel was costing and that my dad was also having to take time off work.

“He and my step-mum have been so supportive and would have done anything to help me.

But the cost was a real added stress for me on top of the cancer.”

Chloe was told about the Dorset Cancer Care Foundation (DCCF) by a healthcare worker at Salisbury Hospital.

The Poole-based charity fundraises to provide nonreturnable grants for Dorset people suffering financial hardship because of cancer.

“My dad applied online to the DCCF for me, and I was thrilled when they said they would cover my transport costs,” Chloe said.

“It was such a weight off my mind.”

Chloe was declared cancer free in August and is back at work but says she feels lucky to be alive: “Being told you have cancer is terrifying.

“I’m glad that as a healthcare worker I knew to get it checked out when I felt there was something wrong. If I had waited any longer it could have been too late.

“I would urge anyone who feels concerned to press the matter if something doesn’t feel or look right.

“I would also like to advise anyone in the county who is suffering hardship because of cancer to contact the Dorset Cancer Care Foundation. They can provide a financial lifeline when you need it most.”

Church organist’s talk

ORGANIST Dr Francis Burroughes will give a talk to members of Dorchester Townswomen’s Guild next week.

Dr Burroughes, who has played in churches for over 50 years, will be at the meeting at Dorchester Community Church, Poundbury, on Monday, January 12, at 2pm.

Visitors –entry £4 – are very welcome to attend.

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Library puts on a bit of spread for older guests THE Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) staged a ‘Festive Spread’ at Dorchester Library & Learning Centre for older members of the community in the run up to Christmas.

Volunteers from the local RVS Home Library Service and groups the library runs also attended.

The event included a buffet lunch provided by the RVS and the Morrisons Foundation.

It was part of the RVS’s national campaign to ensure older and more vulnerable members of the community did not have to spend Christmas alone.

Local community choir Cloud 9 Chorus performed festive songs and readings, and carols, for guests to sing along.

ver Dmiosrceo…

High Sheriff of Dorset, Callum Bremner, visited and spoke of his appreciation for the work of RVS Home Library Service volunteers.

Children from Prince of Wales First School in Dorchester made place mats to decorate the tables, individual Christmas cards for each guest and pictures as gifts for guests to take away with them.

RVS provides the Home Library Service in Dorset and BCP, volunteers at libraries choosing and delivering books for those unable to get to the library themselves.

For further information, contact the local RVS office on 01305 236666 or email dorsethomelibraryservice@ royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk

The event was organised by the Royal Voluntary Service

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East Burton Village Hall events – January

by Patricia Hook HAPPY new year to everyone. I hope you all enjoyed Christmas whether it was a quiet one or full of partying and merriment. Now, it’s time to look forward to spring with all the lovely bulbs and new growth throughout the village. On which note, I want to take time to thank the Guerilla Gardeners for all their hard work every year to create wonderful seasonal decorations throughout the village and for keeping Wool looking so colourful.

The monthly coffee and cake morning at East Burton Village Hall is on Friday, January 9, at the usual time of 10am-noon. By popular request we have also started up another Board and Card game session on Fridays at 2pm, so do come along. It’s not necessary to pre-book, just turn up. This is in addition to our Wednesday 2pm session.

The next Gardening Club evening at East Burton is with Phil Broomfield who is giving a talk about Dorset’s Walled Gardens on Thursday, January 22, at 7.30pm. We always welcome new members and would love to see you. It is not just a club

for keen gardeners, but anyone interested in our beautiful area and seeing other areas and gardens throughout the world without leaving the country.

All the normal activities at East Burton start up again from Tuesday, January 6, so come along and try something to start the new year.

The January film from Wool Community Cinema is The Italian Job, the original with Michael Caine. It is on Friday, January 16, at 6.30pm, doors open 6pm.

Admission £5 adults and £3 under-16s.

Thank you to everyone who came and watched Murder in the Village Hall. I was unable to take part as I lost my voice and was so disappointed, though I heard many good things about the play itself and the Christmas Singalong afterwards, so hope everyone enjoyed themselves. Don’t forget, budding thespians, we really need new members, so please come and join our friendly group.

For further information on any of the above, don’t hesitate to email me at patricia.hook125@gmail.com or phone 01929 288020.

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We offer the highest quality residential, nursing and dementia care and would be delighted to welcome you for a tour of our award winning home.

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From professional hairdressing and delicious, chef-cooked meals to coffee, cake and even trips out, our ladies and gentlemen enjoy a truly worry-free lifestyle. Entertainment, activities and refreshments are all part of our all-inclusive offering, setting us apart from other homes. As a luxury, award-winning care home in Wareham, we’re proud to offer exceptional care, comfort, companionship and peace of mind, where every detail is taken care of.

Please feel free to contact us on 01929 768204 or visit www.dormycare.co.uk

Real Dessert

prepared by one of our award winning chefs

PINE MARTIN GRANGE

Pine Martin Grange - Purbeck Gazette 2025 2-0.indd 1

20/10/2025 15:07:29

12

The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026

News

Hundreds of thousands set to take part in Birdwatch event

THIS January, Purbeck Gazette readers can take part in the world’s largest garden wildlife survey and contribute to the conservation of some of the UK’s best-loved garden birds.

Almost 600,000 people across the country took part in the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch in 2025, counting more than nine million birds of more than 80 species.

In Dorset nearly 8,900 residents joined in the count and the RSPB hopes even more residents will sign up for 2026.

The survey provides a valuable snapshot of how our most common garden birds are faring and taking part is one positive way to take action for birds and nature.

This year’s event takes place from January 23-25.

Dorset residents are asked to spend an hour watching and counting the birds in their garden, local park or from their balcony, then send their results to the RSPB. In Dorset the top three birds recorded last year were house sparrow, blue tit and wood pigeon.

The Birdwatch, which started in 1979, has become the UK’s biggest citizen science wildlife survey.

Over that time, more than 200 million birds have been counted and over 12.6 million hours spent watching and counting garden birds.

Beccy Speight, the RSPB’s chief executive, said: “By taking part in the Birdwatch, you and hundreds of thousands of other nature lovers across the UK are helping us understand

purbeckgazette.co.uk

how garden birds are doing.

“Birds and wildlife are struggling right now.

“Every observation counts, even if you see nothing at all.

“Whether you live in a city or the countryside, anyone, anywhere, can take part in the Big Garden Birdwatch – even if you don’t have a garden!

“A park, balcony, allotment or window A male greenfinch perched on blossom box will

PHOTO: Ben Hall/RSPB do. Simply spend an hour and breeding population. each bird species you see at any A robin on a magnolia tree count the Average counts in one time – not the total you see birds you see. PHOTO: Andy Hay/RSPB 2025 were the highest in the hour.

“It’s good ever recorded in Big Registration for Big Garden for wildlife and evidence shows Garden Birdwatch.

Birdwatch 2026 is open now. it’s good for our own It is the first time that To receive a FREE Big wellbeing.” woodpigeon has been ranked in Garden Birdwatch guide, which Over its four decades, Big third place at a UK level. includes a bird identification Garden Birdwatch has Beccy added: “Even on the chart, top tips for your highlighted the winners and greyest winter day, garden birds Birdwatch, RSPB shop offer, losers in the garden bird world. bring a welcome dose of nature plus advice on how to help you 2025 UK-wide results into our everyday lives. attract wildlife to your garden, revealed that house sparrow was “Take a moment to pause, to text BIRD to 82727, or you can still ranked number one for the listen, to notice. choose a free digital guide – 22nd year in a row.

“We need nature, and nature which helps the RSPB spend However, numbers were needs us. more on nature by reducing down 11% compared to 2024.

“By joining the Big Garden costs – by visiting www.rspb.

Average house sparrow Birdwatch you’re doing org.uk/birdwatch. counts were the lowest since something positive for birds and The parallel event, RSPB Big 1998 and down 64% compared nature.

Schools’ Birdwatch, takes place to the first BGBW in 1979.

“Because when we act for during the first half of spring Starlings dropped out of nature together, we can do so term, January 6 to February 13.

UK’s top three garden birds as much more.”

For over 20 years, the the lowest average count ever To take part in Dorset’s Big Birdwatch has helped to recorded.

Garden Birdwatch 2026, watch connect children and their In Dorset, while starlings are the birds in your garden or in teachers with nature in their still in decline, they have held your local green space for one school grounds. onto fourth place for another hour at some point from January Registration for Big Schools’ year.

23-25.

Birdwatch is now live.

Average woodpigeon counts “Only count the birds that Further information can be increased across the UK, largely land, not those flying over. found at www.rspb.org.uk/ mirroring the national trend in Report the highest number of schoolswatch.

GOT A STORY? Then email ed@purbeckgazette.co.uk

The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026 13

News

purbeckgazette.co.uk

New Year.

New Warmth.

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Enjoy 15% off in January & February 2026

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Family Law

In what was the hardest time of my life, Darren Francis dealt with my divorce case with kindness, understanding and compassion.

A Wareham | T 01929 552141 | hklaw.uk

Darren Francis Senior Associate Solicitor

14

The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026

Your Health Matters

Dorset HealthCare’s monthly round-up

Mental health support – we’re here for you

THIS time of year can be a particularly tough time for many of us. Worried about your mental health or someone you know?

Dorset’s Access Mental Health services provide support for anyone struggling to cope, seeking help or advice, feeling low or anxious, or heading towards a crisis.

Led by Dorset HealthCare, the services offer round-theclock help and advice to those in need, in person, over the phone and online.

The county’s Connection helpline is open 24/7 for support, advice and signposting for anyone in Dorset. Direct dial 0800 652 0190 or call NHS 111 and select the mental health option.

Face-to-face and online services available include: n Community Front Rooms (CFR) – face-to-face drop-in support service for over-18s in Bridport, Shaftesbury and

Weymouth, open 2.15pm9.45pm, Thursday to Sunday.

All are staffed by mental health support workers and provide a space to discuss problems and work towards possible solutions. These are managed by charity BCHA, working in partnership with Hope in Shaftesbury, and Burrough Harmony in Bridport. Virtual support is also available – access via dorsethealthcare. nhs.uk/access-mental-health n The Retreats – face-to-face crisis drop-in service in Bournemouth and Dorchester for over-18s to talk to registered mental health practitioners and peer specialists with lived experience. Open every day from 4.30pm-11.30pm. The Retreats are delivered by Dorset HealthCare in partnership with Dorset Mental Health Forum and are a welcoming, safe space to come and receive support without

Ruth Fletcher from the Connection phone helpline service

referral or judgement.

In addition to existing services BCHA is running a Community Front Room pop-up every Friday – 2pm10pm – until Wednesday, April 1, at AIMCreekmoor – Creekmoor Youth Centre, Northmead Drive, Poole, BH17 7XZ. From late January, there will be some changes to the Community Front Rooms and The Retreats. The Weymouth CFR will be closing, and a new CFR will be opening in Dorchester. At the same time, The Retreat in Dorchester will be closing and relocating to Weymouth. And The Retreat at Bournemouth University will

be relaunched as a CFR, available exclusively for BU, Arts University Bournemouth and Health Sciences University students.

These changes are designed to ensure that crisis mental health support is available where it is most needed, helping local communities access timely and appropriate care.

Until the new services open, all current drop-in and crisis support services will continue as usual, including virtual drop-ins.

For full details on the Access Mental Health services visit dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/ access-mental-health – and these pages will be updated when the services change location.

In addition to Access Mental Health services, Dorset’s Access Wellbeing services offer a welcoming space to find a listening ear. They are staffed by friendly wellbeing coordinators who are on hand to chat to people and help them find support, whether that’s for mental health and emotional wellbeing, or practical worries like money, housing or work.

Visit www.dorsetaccess wellbeing.co.uk for full details.

Exploring Purbeck – East Lulworth by retired Dorset rights of way officer Chris Slade MOST of the parish is in the Lulworth Ranges and thus not accessible except at weekends and Bank Holidays, so this walk is outside the Ranges and thus quite short, less than three miles.

Start at the triangular village green, which has a telephone kiosk library. Head south down the village street then curve right, south-west, passing the pub, the Weld Arms. At the junction with the

B3070 you’ll find an entrance to Lulworth Castle Estate. The drive is a permissive path which you’re allowed to use, so do so heading north towards the castle.

Before you reach it, peel off left, passing in front of the old stables, to visit the church, which is occasionally open. A little way north of the church is the entrance to the castle which you might like to enter.

There’s also a cafe. Walk anti-clockwise around the outside of the castle noticing

the haha until you come to a gate with a ‘No Access’ notice.

Turn around and enjoy the view over the parkland and the Purbecks, then head north towards a gateway where there are thatched rooves over ancient tree stumps. Take the path into the woodland for about a furlong until you’re able to converse with a friendly peacock. Then retrace your steps back to the gateway.

Head north along the

permissive path over the hill and then down to the Park Lodge where you turn right, east, for a short distance until you reach the road next to an old barn which is now the Butterfly Conservation Centre.

I couldn’t see any butterflies – maybe they’re being conserved in a freezer!

Turn right and follow the road through woodland up and over the hill next to the high brick wall of the estate for a mile back to where you started.

The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026 15

Margaret Green Animal Rescue New year, new challenge!

WOULD you like to try something new while supporting rescue animals in need?

If so, we may have an exciting opportunity for you!

With 2026 only just beginning, there are lots of different running events you could enter across the region, the country and even the world.

Not sure where to start? Why not take a look at Run for Charity, where you can find more than 700 events to take part in – with something to suit everyone.

If you fancy setting yourself a goal and participating in one of these events, we would love you to consider fundraising for us at the same time.

As we receive no

Rescue, you will not only be making a positive difference to yourself, but the lives of vulnerable animals across Dorset, Devon and beyond.

Are you ready to join us on our animal rescue journey?

Please head to our page at: Government funding, we rely on the generosity of our supporters, like you, to fund lifesaving treatment and rehabilitation for animals which find themselves without a place to call home.

With your support, we can provide them with the warmth, shelter and vital care they need, while they await their forever families.

By signing up to one of Run for Charity’s events in aid of Margaret Green Animal

https://runforcharity.com/ charity/margaret-green-animalrescue to discover the wide range of events, and contact us at comms@mgar.org.uk with any questions.

Together, we can make 2026 a year to remember.

Help us to keep them safe

www.margaretgreenanimalrescue.org.uk/donate Registered Charity Number: 1167990

Fun dog show date

RESIDENTS, family and friends at Barchester’s Upton Bay care home in Hamworthy celebrated man’s best friend at their annual Christmas fun dog show.

Karen Grant-A’Court, wellbeing activities lead, organised the show with Canine Concern, eight dogs and their owners joining in the festive fun.

The show kicked off with different categories, including Best Christmas Costume,

Waggiest Tail and Fluffiest Coat.

Karen said: “What a fantastic day we had. Each category showcased the beauty and talent of our furry friends. I love how funny and loyal they are.”

General manager, Mevin Sohorye, said: “Our residents love animals, and lots of them have owned dogs in the past, so it was lovely to watch them enjoy petting and help judge categories such as Prettiest Bitch.”

Volunteer appeal to help adults learn to read LITERACY charity Read Easy is reaching out to potential clients and new volunteers.

The charity, which has four groups in Dorset – South Dorset, Poole & Bournemouth, Bridport, and Blackmore Vale North, A spokesperson said: “We open our arms to any adult who comes forward, from any

quarter, who wants to learn to read because they never ‘got it’ at school.

“Please help us find these folk. Give them our phone numbers or refer them to us with a phone call.

“Tell them we’ll call them if they prefer. The bravery of that first step is always remarkable,

and we commend them all.”

Read Easy’s phone number is 07748 981935.

All four Dorset groups are looking for more help with publicity, especially social media.

Poole and Bournemouth needs a literacy specialist who understands what is needed to

support readers.

Bridport needs someone to find suitable venues for coaching and another to find and talk to groups which would refer adults who find reading a challenge.

Blackmore Vale North also needs a fundraiser who can set up a few events a year that raise money.

GOT A STORY? Then email ed@purbeckgazette.co.uk

16

The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026

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The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026 17

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18

The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026

Telling It Like It Is

Is Government penalising EV drivers?

H AVE you decided to switch from petrol/ diesel to EV in 2026? Is your decision intended to help the climate, reduce pollution and support cleaner air? Rachel Reeves has announced she’ll start charging drivers of electric vehicles 3p a mile and plug-in hybrids 1.5p a mile from April 2028. That means a typical EV driver doing 8,500 miles a year could end up paying about £255 a year on top of the usual road tax/VED. So, my question is – has this made you change your mind?

How does the Government encourage people to switch to EVs to do the right thing for the environment, then introduce charges like that, making them more expensive to run than ever? If the Government is serious about green transport, then rewarding early converts makes sense – but this feels like a penalty instead. What do you think?

I

HAVE always been a supporter of the RNLI, especially the Swanage branch whose volunteers regularly put their own lives at risk to save others. But now I read that RNLI bosses have looked at gender ratios within the service and, where they think necessary, interfere with

by David Hollister

professional crews by equalising ‘gender’ to satisfy their sense of equality. I am sure this isn’t the case here in Swanage but I’m sure that if it actually happens here, there will be some kind of quiet mutiny.

Or there should be. Swanage Lifeboat has managed 150 brilliant years without meddling from woke management and I would urge subscribers and supporters to continue to support our team.

I am more concerned that some of our donations allegedly go to fund the ‘rescue’ of boat people – much as I sympathise with the plight of genuine refugees. It’s not the RNLI’s job to ferry migrants from France to the UK and as long as it continues to do so, I will think carefully before making a donation to any national RNLI campaign. But the RNLI has a legal obligation under international maritime law, including the International Convention on Maritime Search and Rescue, which states its obligation to rescue people found at sea in danger of being lost. The RNLI acts on behalf of HM Coastguard to fulfil this duty. The RNLI’s sole purpose is to save lives at sea. Its crews are morally obliged to help

purbeckgazette.co.uk anyone in trouble at sea, and thankfully they don’t judge the circumstances of the people they rescue.

The RNLI is a charity. It does not get a penny from the state, which is why it is so efficient and cost-effective. It will save anyone in danger on the sea no matter why they are at sea. But I still maintain that the boats full of illegal migrants are the Government’s responsibility, not the responsibility of our brave local team. I challenge the RNLI on acting as a taxi service for cross-Channel migrants but it simply repeats that when the RNLI receives a call about a vessel in distress it is obliged to respond to that call.

I

STAY in moderate lowbudget chain hotels around the country from time to time and I’m sad to say that – in my book – standards seem to be slipping. When I stay in a hotel – even a cheap one – I expect the room to be made up and cleaned each morning. Like it always used to be. There’s no point in giving me a notice to hang on the door handle if it is ignored. I do not expect to have to cross the car park in the rain to obtain clean mugs or more milk/coffee. The floors of the rooms above need to be secured and insulated properly, otherwise all footsteps come through the ceiling quite loudly, especially at 6am. So that’s another one off the list!

W

E’VE all been sitting here agog waiting for something to be done about the filthy mess that is Kidlington tip, near Oxford. We have heard local residents express their understandable disgust, local councillors and representatives of the local water authority have appeared on television with their apparently ineffectual promises.

We have heard the arguments about whose responsibility it is to fund the clean-up. But – unless they started this weekend – nothing has been done. The Environment Agency (EA) has launched ‘Operation Nation’, a

criminal investigation and critical incident response, issuing court orders to close the site and working with police. Enough hot air to heat a small town.

But so far – no sight of bulldozers, no rescue plan for the local wildlife, so I guess we’ll have to wait for the pollution to hit the River Thames and threaten London before something is done. Or even started.

Why do I care? It’s 100 miles away. But the fly-tipping and trash-dumping epidemic is forever getting closer to our beloved Purbeck. We occasionally see the council having to clear up sites in Holme Lane and near Lulworth, so we must all be on our guard.

While the police will take action if they witness it happening (!), littering should usually be reported to your local council as it can organise the removal of litter.

Sorry, but the whole principle of reporting anything to your local council is a sad joke. The people on the ground are being replaced by ‘bots’ and it’s almost impossible to speak to a real human being – especially one who cares – even in working hours, let alone the dead of night when the criminals are about. I challenge any local councillor to fight his way through the switchboards or ‘do it online’ to get anything done within 12 hours of it needing doing.

Fly-tipping carries a maximum penalty of an unlimited fine or up to five years in prison. Councils can issue fixed penalty notices (FPN) of £1,000. It is also an offence to allow fly-tipping on your land or land you rent.

As if the fly-tippers themselves give a monkey’s about what the ‘law’ says. They know that no-one’s about at 4am to challenge them.

I ask the council – how many FPNs were issued in 2025, how many miscreants were actually jailed. And on the perennial subject of pigs flying past my window…

The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026 19

WINTER

Wellness

New Year, New You: Jumpstart Your Health & Fitness Journey in January ADVERTISING FEATURE

Our Youth and Family Hub is here for the whole of Wareham and other parts of Purbeck

NEW YEAR, NEW ACTIVITIES! See what’s on in 2026 and get involved.

Full schedule on our website.

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20

The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026

WINTER Wellness Happy New Year from Purbeck Wholefoods! ADVERTISING FEATURE

A

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As we embark on another year, we’re excited to welcome new faces and reconnect with our cherished regulars. Thank you for choosing Purbeck Wholefoods as your partner in wellness.

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The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026 21

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The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026

WINTER Wellness

The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026 23

Politics

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The space between peace and war BEFORE Christmas, I had the privilege of visiting the British Army in Estonia as part of the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme. Stationed just 120 miles from the Russian border, our troops work alongside NATO allies to strengthen Europe’s eastern flank.

Through observing their training here – urban warfare and trench exercises – as well as attending visits to the Harrogate Foundation College for young soldiers and officer development at Sandhurst, where we witnessed lessons in ethics alongside intense physical training, helps me understand today’s military and the global risks it faces.

Conflict today looks different from past wars. Senior military and intelligence leaders describe this era as the ‘space between peace and war’.

Cyberattacks, sabotage of undersea cables and political interference are now part of modern warfare, and we have

seen these sorts of incidents in We have troops across all the UK. our services around the world, While war may feel distant away from their families this to us here in Dorset, European Christmas and I know that they, nations are preparing, and some and their families, are in our are even reintroducing forms of thoughts at this time of year. national service. For decades, In 2026, I will continue the UK and other nations have visiting British Army units, cut defence spending to the including those at Bovington. point where we cannot fight Having helped secure the independently. With the US Decent Homes Standard for turning inward, we need to armed forces families last change this without year, I will keep speaking further delay. up for our military, We must change alongside veterans our processes to and service children, support British and I will press the defence companies, Government to be embrace technologies more open about the like AI and uncrewed risks we face in a systems like drones and changing world.

Vikki Slade rethink the role that the My commitment to Armed Forces play in our security extends to justice. society. The first duty of any I recently joined the Justice government is to keep its Select Committee at a time citizens safe, and that means when that system is under strain ensuring our military has the after decades of under right equipment, training and investment. The Government support to defend our way of spends less on the whole justice life. system – including courts,

tribunals, prisons and probation – than it does on the transport department, and it shows. Court delays leave victims unheard and prisons overcrowded with people awaiting trial. Delays to prisoner transport and failing buildings leave trials abandoned at the last minute.

I will challenge the Lord Chancellor to preserve jury trials, explore ways to reduce reoffending and strengthen youth justice. I am also campaigning for reforms in Child Maintenance – so absent parents cannot avoid their financial responsibilities – and improvements to the DBS system so it properly protects vulnerable people.

As always, I remain focused on helping constituents with issues from housing and health to immigration and taxation. If you need assistance, please do get in touch.

VIKKI SLADE Lib Dem MP for Mid Dorset & North Poole

I HOPE you and your loved ones had a restful Christmas break.

Just before the festivities, I held one of my regular coffee afternoons – this time at Harman’s Cross Village Hall.

Thank you to everyone who took the time to come along and raise local issues.

One of the most pressing issues raised at my coffee afternoon was support for our community hospitals in Swanage and Wareham. It’s essential that we champion all our community hospitals here in Dorset.

I firmly believe that we need to deliver excellent healthcare on our doorstep, and not further and further up the road. That’s why I am working hard to restore the chemotherapy clinic at Wareham Community Hospital. This clinic was lost under the last Conservative Government – we should change

course and get the chemotherapy Sutton was on hand to offer clinic back into action. support as well. It is common I am also making the case to knowledge that Swanage restore the rheumatology clinic Library is one of the busiest in at Swanage Community the whole of Dorset – used by Hospital – yet another clinic that local people of all ages, should never have been shut including my grandparents! down. But we must go further It’s clear to me that Swanage than merely restoring Library provides a vital services that were service to the town and previously removed. We surrounding villages, need key services and and so I will work routine tests and scans alongside the to be relocated to a fantastic Friends of community hospital Swanage Library setting. That’s why I team to help secure have been regularly new funding for meeting with local NHS Swanage Library, Lloyd Hatton broaden the range of bosses and working with the Labour Government to services offered in the push for a renewed focus on our library and push for improved community hospitals. opening hours at the weekend.

In December, I visited Recently, the Labour Swanage Library to meet with Government committed to the Friends of Swanage Library, delivering a library in every hardworking library staff, and primary school. The ambitious Swanage town councillor Cliff nationwide scheme will create

libraries in about 1,700 primary schools currently without them.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, I want to ensure this scheme also supports Swanage Library – meaning more young people can easily access books and a place to study. Good quality libraries are just another way we can ensure that every young person has the best start in life.

I’m determined to champion Swanage Library at every opportunity – so this muchloved local service has a vibrant future in our town. Let’s get to work!

LLOYD HATTON Labour MP for South Dorset

Time to champion our hospitals

SOMETHING TO SAY? Then email ed@purbeck gazette.co.uk

24

The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026

Health & Wellbeing

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Resist the new year reset and evolve

by Nicole Asghar AS the year turns, there’s often an unspoken pressure to start again. To reset. To leave behind the pain, the grief, the worries, the parts of ourselves that feel heavy or unfinished. New year, new you, someone that is healthier, calmer, more ‘together’ and productive.

But what if we resist the reset and let ourselves be open to evolving instead? What if, instead of wiping the slate clean, we allow this new year to be a continuation of who we already are – shaped by everything we’ve lived, felt and survived?

The learnings, the heartbreaks, the disappointments, the anxiety

that sat in the body long before it had words. These experiences aren’t obstacles to becoming ourselves, they are part of the process. When we try to discard them, we often end up fragmenting – subtly telling ourselves that some parts are too messy, too sensitive, ‘too much’ to bring forward.

The sensations and emotions we push away are often meaningful messengers. Pain can point to values that have been violated. Grief speaks to love. Anxiety can signal what feels uncertain, unsafe or deeply important. When we abandon these inner experiences, we’re not just avoiding discomfort, we’re turning away from parts of us

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New year, new you is a common urge, but not the only way

that are communicating needs, boundaries and what truly matters. Integration begins when we listen with curiosity rather than judgement, acceptance rather than abandonment.

I think it can be especially helpful at this time of year to remember that grief doesn’t end because a calendar changes. It softens when it’s welcomed.

Worries don’t disappear through force, they settle when met with compassion and reassurance.

Even our mistakes carry information when we approach them with care rather than self-attack.

So perhaps we could notice any impulse to abandon parts of ourselves in the name of growth. Instead, see this threshold as an evolution – a gentle unfolding. When we allow ourselves to move

forward intact, tender, imperfect, and still learning, we quietly give others permission to do the same. We show that self-acceptance isn’t something earned after fixing ourselves, it’s a possibility for us all, just as we are.

I think this is a way for us to have a year that can feel radically different to the last few. It might be easier said than done, though! What do you think? How do you approach the new year?

If you have any thoughts on this topic, I’d love to hear from you. Feel free to get in touch. n Nicole Asghar is a Dorsetbased therapist working online and around Bournemouth.

Specialising in neurodivergence, trauma, and yoga. Get in touch via nicole@ ourluminousminds.com or www. ourluminousminds.com

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The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026 25

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Meditations in nature: Time passages

by Susanna Curtin WITH Christmas Day, and all the frantic preparations now behind us, I have found some space to spend a moment to think about the new year ahead and to celebrate the recent passing of the winter solstice – a time when our hearts lift as we welcome the slow and gentle returning of the light. Although the Earth’s axis is tilted farthest away from the Sun, marking the beginning of winter, the solstice is an emotionally and culturally significant time, as with the longest night now behind us, it symbolises hope, rebirth and renewal.

Up here on a secluded spot high above the rolling Dorset hills, I am wrapped up in warm clothes and sat on a bank sheltered by the edge of a woodland. Before me, the night sky stretches out into eternity.

The first quarter of December’s waxing gibbous moon is spreading its ethereal silver light over this ancient landscape, drenching the intensity of the constellations and drowning out the Milky Way. Orion, however, is still clearly visible as it looms over the hills, and with my binoculars, I can just make out the Orion Nebula (M42), a cloudy cluster of gas and dust which appears as a fuzzy middle star in Orion’s sword just below his iconic belt. Jupiter, currently in the constellation of Gemini, is also prominent and gleaming.

Looking at this vast infinite expanse of stars, I can’t help myself reflecting on the concept of time as another year of my life draws to its close. This human fascination with the passage of time is deeply rooted in our evolutionary history.

Britain, especially, has some of the strongest solstice traditions

in the world, evident in our many ancient monuments that are aligned with the sun, stars and solstices. The winter solstice was a time for celebration – there were bonfires and rituals such as lighting yule logs, and decorating surrounds with holly and mistletoe to symbolise resilience and eternal life.

Communal feasts were accompanied by themes of sharing and survival before the harshness of winter set in.

For the ancients that once occupied this hillside, the passing of the seasons was a profound natural force that governed their survival, their religious beliefs and their connection to the land. Today, our relationship with time is far removed from nature, governed purely by society and technology. It is mixed with a paradoxical blend of precise measurement and subjective anxiety that, for me, seems to be getting worse. I am always racing against the clock, focused on ticking off the chores, of being productive rather than being mindful or connected to the present moment. The only time I can truly disconnect from phones, laptops and people is when I am alone in this wonderful landscape.

Technology has arguably warped our sense of time. We evolved in tune with our natural circadian rhythms governed by the darkness, light, seasons and events. But with the countless screens that we can no longer live without, time has become segmented and urgent, the clock has replaced the sun, and we have moved from cycles to deadlines. Time feels like something I am running out of,

Health & Wellbeing

The Orion Nebula PHOTO: Neil Bundle

not living in.

The theory of human time is incredibly complex as it is such a subjective experience. As I get older, time seems to speed past me at an ever increasing rate.

Our ancestors did not measure time in the same way as we do, they experienced it more as a cyclical process. For example, day to night to day again, or winter to spring to summer to autumn and back to winter – birth, death and rebirth. Modern perceptions of time are more linear – a continuous one way flow from the past to the present, and to the future. The past is behind us and the future is in front. Intriguingly, some cultures, like the Aymara people of the Andes or the Māori of New Zealand, view the past as being in front of them and the future as behind them – the logic being that we can ‘see’ or know the past, whereas the future is both unseen and

unknown.

Sitting here quietly for an hour in the damp fresh air under this incredible sky and contemplating the speed at which this year has passed, I am reminded of just how calming it is to be in the moment. I vow that this winter will be a time of slowing down and realigning myself to nature, to rest and recharge. Besides, there is much to love about January, not only a fresh start but a chance to appreciate winter’s stark beauty, with hot drinks and winter walks, and awe-inspiring night skies like this one.

If like me, you love a good night hike, then look out for the first celestial event on January 3 and 4 – a meteor shower called the Quadrantids which will appear near Ursa Major, the Big Dipper. Happy stargazing, and happy 2026! n Dr Susie Curtin (email curtin. susanna@gmail.com)

Advertising made simple 01963 400186 adverts@purbeckgazette.co.uk

26

The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026

Reader’s Picture

purbeckgazette.co.uk

White water hits the beach on a sunny Christmas Eve in Swanage PHOTO: Robin Boultwood

Puzzle solutions Easy sudoko 4 9 2 7 1 3 8 6 5

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The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026 27

purbeckgazette.co.uk

Jade: A sacred stone

by Amy Brenan, director of Heirlooms Jewellers, 21 South Street, Wareham JADE has held a special place in the world of jewellery for thousands of years, treasured not only for its beauty but also for the deep cultural meaning it carries.

It symbolises purity, wisdom and protection, and in ancient civilisations jade was prized long before diamonds or gold gained prominence.

In China, jade has been revered for over 7,000 years, earning the title ‘the Stone of Heaven’.

Jade became more popular in Western jewellery in the 19th century, following increased trade with Asia.

Carved jade jewellery was popular in the Art Deco period due to the vibrancy of its colour and its ability to be intricately carved into large panels to make statement pieces of jewellery that were popular during the flapper girl era of eccentricity, fashion and frivolity.

Winter-time has always seen a fascination with Asia and oriental style.

Chinese New Year is in January and the deep reds and golds used in traditional Chinese and Japanese decoration are warming colours popular at this colder time of year.

But green features heavily in Asian design and why? Jade, of course.

The Art Deco earrings you can see are made from handcarved panels of fine green jade designed with rosettes and

A pair of carved 1930s green jadeite and graduated simulated pearl earrings

scrolls.

They hang from cultured pearls and yellow gold chains, creating movement in the ear.

Today, jade remains a cherished gemstone in both antique and contemporary jewellery.

Whether worn as a simple bangle or an intricately carved pendant, it carries an ageless beauty.

Its history of spiritual symbolism, cultural significance and artistic expression continues to enchant collectors and jewellery lovers around the world, making jade a truly enduring treasure.

Antiques & Collectibles

Thatcher Papers may make £100k AN epochal discovery is set to headline Duke’s the Winter Auction later this month.

Unearthed in a cardboard box in a Somerset garage, a cache of highly important political papers has been hailed by experts as the ‘find of the century’.

Known as The Thatcher Papers, the archive documents the pivotal moment Margaret Thatcher was elected leader of the Conservative Party in 1975, a turning point in British political history.

Its emergence is especially resonant, coinciding with the centenary of Thatcher’s birth.

The archive is made up of more than 60 documents and letters, including Thatcher’s original nomination paper, proposed by Keith Joseph and seconded by her campaign manager, Airey Neave.

In her own hand, she writes: “I, Margaret H. Thatcher, consent to being nominated,” signing and dating the document 27 January 1975.

There are also ballot papers, correspondence from Thatcher, Edward Heath and then prime

The Thatcher Papers – 60 documents detail Margaret Thatcher’s rise to power

minister Harold Wilson, and the decisive result sheet dated February 11, 1975.

Signed by the 1922 Committee scrutineers, it records Thatcher’s emphatic victory with 146 votes to William Whitelaw’s 79.

The archive, described by experts as ‘utterly sensational’ is estimated to sell for £100,000.

It is for sale with Duke’s of Dorchester in the Winter Auction on Thursday, January 29.

28

The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026

Home & Garden

purbeckgazette.co.uk

How plants turned a life around GROWING plants has saved Bournemouth’s Cherry Tree Nursery team member Andrew from a life of addiction, homelessness and despair.

Nurturing plants at Cherry Tree, which provides occupation for adults experiencing lifeimpacting mental health conditions, has succeeded where all other avenues failed.

Born into what he describes as a dysfunctional family rooted in cult-like levels of authoritarian control, Andrew attributes his turbulent childhood behaviour to an unloving and ruthless culture at home that dominated every aspect of his youth.

“I became troublesome and hard to manage,” said Andrew.

“I had no impulse control and my parents didn’t have coping skills. I grew up in a culture of extreme discipline, to the point where my parents controlled when I ate and the amount of food I had.

“Their approach was children should be seen and not heard. If I tried to speak back, I’d be shot down.”

A childhood immersed in fear, alienation and neglect resulted in a swift deterioration in Andrew’s mental health.

He explained: “I started stealing and got caught at the age of six. I was rebelling against authority and simply taking what I thought I should have as a child.

“I used to steal food from the cupboards, fridge and freezer at home, just to meet my basic needs. I was always hungry.

Stealing from shops came later, at the ages of eight or nine.

“At school, I couldn’t sit still or concentrate. I’d disrupt class

and climb out the windows, with teachers relaying my bad behaviour to my parents.

“My dad felt shame, because this conduct didn’t fit his agenda. The consequences were brutal. I was expelled from school aged nine.

“My parents’ response was harsher, physical discipline – being given a good hiding. I was taken to a child psychologist but in the 1970s they didn’t have a clue.”

Between the ages of 11 and 16, Andrew was sent to a school for disruptive boys, eventually becoming a residential student.

He said: “It was a place of abuse – physical, mental, psychological, verbal and sexual. But I still chose to stay in that environment, rather than going home, because of my dad’s abusive behaviour.”

Andrew said how occasionally staying at his auntie’s house, on breaks from residential school, paved the way to a life of addiction.

He said: “My auntie let me stay up late and watch TV, which would have been unthinkable at home. Once, she got a whisky and lemonade and offered me a sip.

“I thought it was amazing – those few sips of alcohol as a child introduced me to the effect of drinking to ease pain.”

Then aged 13 and drinking with teenage friends, Andrew says dependency on alcohol and cannabis ‘progressed like a disease’, resulting in his placement on a youth training scheme as a boat builder falling by the wayside.

Permanently thrown out of home and engaging in theft to pay for his addiction, he was

Cherry Tree Nursery team member Andrew’s life had been characterised by addiction, homelessness and despair

sent to prison before he had turned 18.

Finding himself homeless after completing a custodial sentence, Andrew was put in a hostel.

He said: “We were four in a room. People would come in drunk, or self-harming in the night. I was working at a food factory but couldn’t stomach going back to the hostel.

“I hated it so much I decided to make myself homeless in the hope that something would come up for me.

“I was sleeping in rhododendron bushes in Bournemouth gardens, and under the pier. I didn’t know how to survive apart from stealing.

“One lad told me about the Salvation Army. They were such kind people and looked after us.

This was my first introduction to people who helped others for no return.”

From sleeping rough to stints in bedsits and flats, Andrew’s addiction had progressed to class A drugs and life revolved around a circle of being housed and rebounding into homelessness, interrupted by ‘going to prison about every year for 11 years’, until the age of 36.

He said: “Prison became a sanctuary for me – a time to recuperate, put on weight, eat food, go to the gym and do some work.

“I started going to my first 12

Steps meetings [Alcoholics Anonymous] while in prison.

But as soon as I was released, I had no defence against the disease of addiction. Willpower was useless.

“There were overdoses. I had a blockage on a heart valve. I was infected with Hepatitis C. I felt powerless and helpless. I threw my hands up in the air, knowing this was going to take my life.

“I had no self-belief or self-esteem. Every penny I had went on drugs. I saw no way out apart from death and made multiple suicide attempts. I was desperate.”

Many organisations supported Andrew’s recovery, including drug, alcohol and mental health organisation We Are With You and homelessness charity St Mungo’s.

Andrew describes himself as ‘one of the lucky ones’, having been temporarily housed under the Everyone In initiative, in which support organisations rallied to house people experiencing street homelessness at the start of the Covid-19 lockdown in 2020.

Long before the pandemic, a psychologist had recommended that Andrew carry out voluntary work at Cherry Tree Nursery as part of his recovery.

Andrew said: “At the time, my attitude was ‘I don’t do nothing unless you pay me’. But I thought I’d give it a go.

“It was totally the wrong

The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026 29

Home & Garden

purbeckgazette.co.uk attitude. Over time, while I was in recovery at Cherry Tree, my behaviour changed. I wanted to do this for myself. And my sponsor reminded me that one of the core foundations of recovery is service.

“Working on the nursery taught me to stop thinking about myself for two minutes, consider other people and be a part of something bigger. It gave me a sense of purpose and direction. I realised I had something good here.”

Team members at Cherry Tree grow thousands of perennials, climbers, vegetable plants and hedging for sale to the public, with proceeds supporting the horticultural

therapy scheme.

Working outdoors in the fresh air, surrounded by nature and a supportive community, proved to be the lifeline that Andrew had sought during so many years of despair.

He added: “I began to realise I like plants and have developed a great working relationship with the staff. Now in my 50s, I’ve grown enough to see that the world doesn’t revolve around me, and the team has helped my personal development.

“I volunteer twice a week at Cherry Tree and I love it – it’s brilliant for my mental and physical health. Working on the nursery gives me a sense of

JULIA’S House will raise thousands of pounds for its children’s hospices in Dorset and Wiltshire this year through its eco-friendly Christmas tree collection and recycling service.

The charity collections will take place from Thursday to Saturday, January 8-10, and cover the postcode areas of BH1 through to BH23 and BH31.

Real tree collections can be booked on the charity’s website, www.juliashouse. org/collect, until 23.59 on Monday, January 5.

Charity supporters gave more than £27,000 last year through the scheme, which is now in its fifth year.

The trees will be transported to local partner sites, where they will be recycled into chippings for use on nearby farms.

Julia’s House fundraiser,

Katie Thompson, said: “Our Christmas tree recycling scheme has grown year on year, and we’re so grateful for the incredible generosity of our supporters.

“Not only does the service make it easy for everyone to recycle their real Christmas tree after the festivities, but every donation helps us continue delivering vital care, play and magic moments to children with the most complex medical needs.

“It really does make a big difference.”

The Julia’s House Christmas tree collection and recycling scheme in Dorset is sponsored by Eco Sustainable Solutions and the Fencing Centre.

The charity is also supported each year by a team of volunteer drivers and helpers from local businesses.

achievement, accomplishment and community.

“I get to reach out to people here, and if I see people struggling, they reach out to me.

We even have support on-site from Citizens Advice. What a great place this is!

“Cherry Tree Nursery has given me a platform to practice accountability. That means showing up – whether you feel like it or not – you’ve got to do it. I know that if I turn up and get stuck in, I’m going to feel better.

“I can sit at home feeling depressed or put a bit of effort in and connect with others, work with plants and reap the benefits.”

He added: “No matter how

far you plummet through consequences of mental health, childhood trauma or falling in with the wrong crowd, Cherry Tree is a way of grounding yourself. You get plenty of time while working with plants to process things in your mind.

“Volunteering at Cherry Tree teaches you to be tolerant of people – to put life into perspective and to be a friend to others. We achieve great things together here on the nursery. I have no intention of ever leaving.”

Cherry Tree Nursery in Bournemouth is run by the charity Plants and Minds, which also operates Chestnut Nursery in Poole.

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The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026

Business

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DORSET Chamber has appointed the first honorary figurehead of its kind in its history – HM Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset, Michael Dooley.

He was announced in the newly created role of ‘patron’ before the start of the business support organisation’s annual meeting when its new president, vice-president and other office bearers were elected.

Gareth Sherwood, chief executive of YMCA Bournemouth, was chosen as president, and Simon Boyd, managing director of REIDsteel, became vice-president.

Nearly 100 business people attended the event at the Marriott Hotel in Bournemouth before the chamber’s annual Christmas lunch for 160 guests, which included a toy collection and raffle in aid of the Cash for Kids charity.

The chamber of commerce has more than 600 members representing 37,000 employees.

Founded in 1949, it is accredited to the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).

Chamber chief executive, Ian Girling, said: “Congratulations to our new president and newly elected officers, and a warm welcome to our new patron,

Michael Dooley, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset.

“Gareth is an exceptional business leader who will bring great energy, experience and insight to the role of president while the appointment of Michael further strengthens our mission to foster growth, collaboration and opportunity for businesses of all sizes.

“His role of patron is a significant one – symbolic of our values, our ambition and our commitment to serving the business community across Dorset.”

Ian added: “Despite what is expected to be another challenging year ahead, there was a great deal of characteristic

positivity among businesses at the annual meeting which gives cause for optimism as we look ahead.”

The Lord Lieutenant is the Crown’s representative in Dorset. Mr Dooley was appointed in September 2024.

His professional career was in medicine, including roles as a consultant at the Dorset County Hospital in Dorchester, and consultant gynaecologist to the Royal Household.

Mr Dooley said: “I look forward to working with you.

Not as a distant symbol, but as a patron who serves, supports and celebrates your success in an apolitical way.

“May Dorset continue to be a

county where businesses prosper, where innovation inspires and where our communities flourish in harmony.”

Gareth succeeded Tony Brown of Y-not Finance as president. Tony continues on the chamber board as past president.

Gareth said: “My commitment as your president is to lead with hope, honesty and a bit of humour – to be vocal on your behalf, pragmatic in approach, fair in dealing and free of ego.”

Newly elected board members were May Palmer, managing director of Harry J Palmer Holdings Ltd; Kimberley Davies, Partner and Head of Family – Dorset at Trethowans; and Marsham Court Hotel managing director Rosie Radwell.

New ambassadors were Jonny Bush from Enhanced, Debbie Smith from Bournemouth and Poole College, Lucy Filer of the TC Group and Kurt Lee from Lester Aldridge. Helen Stacey from Aspire Jobs continues as chair and as a board member.

Guests at the Christmas lunch – sponsored by Rathbones - brought along gifts for Cash for Kids’ toy drive collection and entered a raffle which raised £2,400.

The charity is dedicated to improving the lives of disadvantaged children and young people across the south coast.

STUDENTS who were given the chance to run their own stall at Bournemouth Alpine Market will use the profits they made to launch an online printing business in 2026.

Specialist education provider SWRAC was given the Best of Bournemouth hut at the market by organisers Seventa Events.

SWRAC operates colleges for young adults aged 16 to 30 with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Students studying enterprise as part of the Prepare for Life

and Prepare for Work programmes at SWRAC’s Boscombe college helped make and sell handmade festive decorations, wreaths, tree ornaments and hand-printed goods from the stall.

By the end of the week, they had made £1,300, which will now be used to launch a printing business featuring tote bags, T-shirts and mugs with their own bespoke designs.

Student, Jodee, said: “I am usually quite nervous about talking to people I don’t know

but I surprised myself by being really good at selling and talking to people when I was working on the stall.

“I had made some of the wreaths and resin candle holders we were selling and people wanted to know how we made them.

“I think they were impressed we had made all the things and they said it was really good value.”

Student, Troy, added: “During my time on the stall I took card payments and spoke

to customers.

“They had lots of questions about the things we were selling, and I really enjoyed explaining.

“Even the people who didn’t buy anything wanted to know what SWRAC is and I told them about our college and what we do.”

The Best of Bournemouth hut started the previous Christmas and gives local people and organisations the chance to trade at the market for just one week, instead of a full six-week term.

Chamber of trade opens new chapter

In the picture (from left) May Palmer, Kimberley Davies, Caron Khan, past president Tony Brown, new president Gareth Sherwood, HM Lord Lieutenant Michael Dooley, chief executive Ian Girling, new vice-president Simon Boyd, honorary treasurer Lesley Fox, Gail Polkinghorne and honorary solicitor Matthew Fretten

Students set out their stall at Alpine Market

The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026 31

purbeckgazette.co.uk

Changes to day one rights on unfair dismissal

Business

A SWANAGE law firm has Kate Brooks, partner and head of Employment at Ellis Jones Solicitors process and appraisals urged employers to review their n Educate and train managers procedures following changes on performance, sickness and in the employment tribunal.”

Rubicon Recruitment about HR to an overhaul of unfair conduct processes Ellis Jones has eight offices issues. dismissal rules.

Currently, an employee across Dorset, Hampshire and Visit https://www.ellisjones.

The Government revealed needs two years’ continuous London where it employs 189 co.uk/business/employmentthat the qualifying period will employment before they can people and has 24 partners. solicitors-bournemouth/ to find not be day one as proposed in bring a claim for unfair Ellis Jones holds a free, out more about the HR advice the Employment Rights Bill, dismissal or constructive monthly HR Forum with Ellis Jones offers. but instead will be reduced dismissal in an Employment from the current two years Tribunal. period to six months.

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Ellis Jones, said: “The “For example, whether this Employment Rights Bill would lead to a huge rise in TrustScore 4.4 encompasses the biggest tribunal claims or that changes to employment rights recruitment would be stifled and obligations that this and lead to employers looking generation will see. at other ways to engage “The Government has individuals, for example on a Safe.

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“The full detail of these Employees must gain an changes is still emerging, but early conciliation certificate employers can start from ACAS before pursuing constructively preparing for most tribunal claims for such these changes in a number of matters as unfair or ways.” constructive dismissal, or Employers are encouraged discrimination. to: Kate said: “The aim of this n Review recruitment change is to relieve some of the Blandford Dorchester Shaftesbury ndford processes to give new hires the pressure on both ACAS and the Blandford 01258 453898 Swanage 01929 500249 01258 447005 01305 231267 01747 440426 0 8 447005 best chance of success employment tribunals. n Update induction procedures “The hope is that if ACAS Sherborne Warminster Wincanton rborne 01305 783795 783795 Dorchester Wareham 01305 n Review, update and train on have the case for longer to 01935 316221 01925 984459 01963 34065 5 316221 0 performance processes to facilitate conciliation this may www.armishaws.com www.a include new starter review mean that less cases are lodged

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The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026

Motoring

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Improvements on way near country park

AN improved route for walking, wheeling and cycling is to be developed between Creekmoor and Upton Country Park, off the A35 near Poole.

It includes a new parallel crossing for pedestrians and cyclists near the country park, wider footways and resurfacing, designed to make journeys safer and reduce the risk of accidents.

The scheme will widen and improve the cycleway and provide a better link to the underpass that carries a bridleway under the A35, giving users better access to a safe, traffic-free route.

Temporary traffic signals will be employed during the work, which starts on Monday,

January 12, and is expected to last 12 weeks.

The westbound slip road from the A35 to Upton Country Park will be closed during the work, with a signed diversion in place.

Upton Country Park will be open as usual throughout.

Dorset Council is carrying out the improvements.

Councillor Jon Andrews, cabinet member for Place Services at the council, said: “These improvements are vital for the safety and wellbeing of local communities, so we thank everyone for their patience during the works.

“We’ve worked with BCP Council to plan the upgrade of

12 weeks of work will involve some disruption for road users

the footway and bridleway from Creekmoor towards Upton Country Park, making it accessible for more users.

“We’ll do everything we can to minimise disruption, but

Dorset Car Club hands over its donation to the Huntingdon’s Disease Association

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please plan ahead and allow extra time, especially during rush hour.

“These improvements will make this busy area safer and more pleasant for all.”

Dorset Car Club helps good cause DORSET Car Club has presented a cheque for £4,114.08 to the Huntington’s Disease Association.

The funds were raised through donations from exhibiting car owners and members of the public who attend the club’s monthly events.

Dorset Car Club hosts its popular car meets on the third Thursday of every month, excluding December and January, attracting enthusiasts

from across the region to support charitable causes.

Dorset Car Club thanked all supporters who contributed to the fundraising, highlighting the importance of community involvement in aiding those affected by Huntington’s Disease.

For more information about Dorset Car Club or upcoming events, contact Chris Wood at dorsetcarclub@gmail.com or visit the club’s Facebook page, Dorset Car Club.

The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026 33

Sport

purbeckgazette.co.uk

Swans get in groove after slow start

by Ron Butler Swanage & Wareham 46 Trowbridge 2nd 7 SWANS welcomed Trowbridge 2nd XV to Bestwall in their final game of the first half of the season and after finding the early part of the game something of a struggle they sorted themselves out and dominated play in the second half.

Swans gave away a couple of penalties early on which took the visitors into the Swans 22, and from a line-out Trowbridge produced a catch/drive move which led to the first try of the

RUGBY game, which was converted (0-7) after six minutes.

Swans soon learnt Trowbridge had a full back who had a long kick, so were frustrated.

However, a penalty to Swans on the visitor’s 22, saw George Crouch land a goal (3-7) after 16 minutes.

From the restart, Swans tried running the ball, but a tackle saw wing forward Lee Hardy pick up and score close to the posts (8-7) after 20 minutes.

Trowbridge came back at

Swans as their backs were pretty good, but Swans centres and wing forwards did a splendid job of taking them out for much of the rest of the half.

0n 38 minutes, Ollie Dillon broke down the wing into the Trowbridge 22, passed inside to centre Tom Munns, who scored out wide. Crouch added the extras to make the half-time score Swans 15, Trowbridge 2nd 7.

Early in the second half, Swans kicked through, got a scrum close to the Trowbridge try line and Swans number 8 Paul Gregory scored following a drive by the pack. Crouch added the conversion (22-7) after 43 minutes.

Both sides had a few penalties and Swans tried to run the ball along the backs with Trowbridge tackling well.

But on 56 minutes Swans centre Tom Munns broke clear to score his second try and Swans’ bonus point try (27-7).

Five minutes later, as

Trowbridge attacked Swans’ 22, Tom Munns intercepted again and scored his hat-trick try to take Swans’ score to 32 points.

Swans took charge and from a backs move which resulted in a scrum close to the visitor’s try line, scrum-half Olly Peters charged over. Crouch added the extras (39-7) after 70 minutes.

Swans continued to attack, and Trowbridge had a goal line drop out, which Swans ran along the backs before getting a scrum close to the try line. This time Swans’ other wing forward, Tom Holland, was on hand to score Swans’ seventh try. Crouch added the conversion, leaving the final score Swans 46 Trowbridge 2nd 7.

Swans: Ollie Dillon, George Crouch, Tom Munns, Ed Dimascio, Jacob Marshall, Will Slack, Olly Peters, Joel Andrews, Alex Weatherall, Nick Audley, Kian Salina, George Slack, Tom Horlland, Lee Hardy, Paul Gregory – Zach Wyburgh, Craig Foskett.

OTHER RESULT: Puddletown 35 Swanage & Wareham 2nd XV 5.

Teams faring well at halfway point HOCKEY SWANAGE & Wareham Hockey Club, based at Purbeck School astro pitch, go into 2026 in a very healthy position.

The club have five teams all well placed in their leagues and look forward to the second half of the season with great optimism.

All teams play in the England Hockey, South Central leagues.

The Men’s first team is sitting comfortably midway in South Division 2 but only three points behind second place.

The Men’s 2nd team lies second by only four points in Forest Division 1.

The Ladies first team currently sits in fourth but equal on points with third place in South Division 2.

Considering the number of

Swanage and Wareham Hockey Club welcome new players of any ability

injuries the team have sustained in the first half of the season, this is a very healthy position going into the second half of the season.

The Ladies 2nd and 3rd teams play in Forest Division 2 and currently lie in the second

half of the table, having had a few availability issues which it is hoped will settle for the second half of the season.

Training starts again on Wednesday, January 7, at 6.30pm.

The club are always looking

for new players of any ability to join the successful and sociable hockey club.

For further information, email secretary@ swanageandwarehamhc.org.uk or visit the club’s website, swanageandwarehamhc.org.uk

GOT A SPORT STORY? Then email ed@purbeckgazette.co.uk

34

The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026

Arts & Entertainment

Exhibition paints a picture of war WORKS by Laura Knight, Paul Nash, Eric Ravilious and Graham Sutherland are among the paintings, drawings and sculptures on show as part of Artist as Witness: The Impact of War, a major exhibition at Bournemouth’s Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum.

The exhibition, featuring more than 70 artworks from national, regional, private and Russell-Cotes’ own war art collection, explores artists’ diverse responses to scenes from both world wars and the war in Ukraine, as well as their aftermaths and impact on those caught up in them.

Several of the featured artists have strong links to Dorset. Paul Nash lived for a time in Swanage and the

George Butler’s drawings from war-torn Ukraine are on show

sculpture Blood, Toil, Tears and Sweat by Samuel William Ward Wallis was created while he was living in Parkstone, using a soldier stationed nearby as his model.

Among the earliest works on show are Amy Drucker’s Air Raid Shelter painted in 1916 during one of the German bombing raids on London

which began 110 years ago last year.

It has echoes in the exhibition’s most recent content – the south-west premiere of drawings from war-torn Ukraine by awardwinning artist George Butler.

Rarely seen works on show include Evacuees Assist with the Hay Harvest by James

‘Fatboy’ set to be festival headliner LEGENDARY DJ and producer of era-defining beats, Norman Cook – aka Fatboy Slim – will headline the final day of next year’s Camp Bestival at Lulworth Castle.

He will be hosting the Fatboy Slim & Friends All Day Castle Stage takeover, with special guests, on Sunday, August 2.

Cook said: "Given that there’s a seaside theme at Camp Bestival this year, I can’t think of anybody more qualified than me to be providing the authentic seaside experience.

“I’ll be bringing all my seaside friends on August 2 for the Castle Stage takeover.

Fatboy Slim with a seagull…

“I think the genius of Camp Bestival is the multigenerational raving – it’s kind of for kids but

it’s kind of for adults, too. The two seem to co-exist in a very interestingly symbiotic way!”

Festival curators and husband and wife team, Josie and Rob da Bank, are excited about Cook’s return to Camp Bestival.

Rob said: “Every year we run a survey with our wonderful audience, and every year there’s one name that tops the list of ‘acts you’d like to see most’ – and yes, it’s my mate Norm, from Brighton, aka Fatboy Slim!

“We’ve been doing the Eat, Sleep, Rave, Repeat formula with Norm since I did one of the first in-depth interviews when he’d just invented Fatboy Slim in the 90s and I’m happy to say we’ve been mates ever since.

“Norman brings the party

Fatboy Slim embraces the seaside theme for Camp Bestival

like no other, so I decided let’s give him the whole main stage to programme for a day and we’ll be unveiling the acts joining him very soon.

“In the meantime, rest assured Sunday at Camp Bestival will be an off-the-hook spectacular finale.”

Organisers are inviting festival-goers to grab their bucket and spade for the festival fancy dress competition.

A celebration of seaside spirit with seaside entertainers, sunbathers on stripy deckchairs,

purbeckgazette.co.uk

Anti-Tank Ditch (1942) by Captain Albert Richards IMAGE: Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum, Bournemouth

Bateman – one of about 400 artists given commissions by the War Artists’ Advisory Committee (WAAC) – which has not been on public view for at least 40 years.

Visitors can also see Anti-Tank Ditch by Captain Albert Richards – another WAAC artist, mourned as a lost great talent after he was killed in a minefield explosion, aged 26, in 1945 while on a WAAC assignment.

The exhibition runs until Sunday, March 8, and RussellCotes is open Tuesday to Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays 10am-5pm. knotted handkerchiefs, cheeky seagulls, melting ice creams and fish and chips is expected.

The four-day festival also features free activities including food stalls and hands-on foodie masterclasses, immersive theatre, circus spectacles, pop-up sideshows, comedy, author talks, live podcasts, family sports, outdoor adventures and arts and crafts.

The Slomo Wellbeing Festival, held as part of Camp Bestival and curated by Josie and Rob da Bank, offers a family wellbeing programme for all ages.

The weekend will culminate in a Sunday night firework finale with Fatboy Slim and friends on the main stage.

Camp Bestival, now in its 18th year and presented by Debenhams, runs from Thursday, July 30, to Sunday, August 2.

For information on tickets, visit campbestival.net

The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026 35

Arts & Entertainment

purbeckgazette.co.uk

Legends: Three into one does go

Boogie-woogie piano man Ben Waters (left), pop rocker Chris Payn with The Parade (right) and local hellraisers The Outlaw Orchestra

LIVE and Unheard, the monthly grassroots original music night at Lighthouse Poole, is set to present its latest Legends concert.

The three-act bill features Dorset boogie-woogie piano hero Ben Waters, actionpacked pop rocker Chris Payn with his new band The Parade and local hellraisers par excellence The Outlaw Orchestra.

It is nearly four decades years since Ben Waters fell in love with blues and boogie

woogie piano at blues gigs organised by his family in West Dorset’s pubs.

Building a career by following the music he got his first professional job when Jools Holland’s brother, Chris, asked him to take over his piano stool in Shakin’ Stevens’ band.

Ben left school on the spot and has gone on to play with The Rolling Stones, The Beach Boys, Chuck Berry, Ray Davies, Jeff Beck, Johnny Depp, Paul Weller,

Rod Stewart and his cousin, PJ Harvey, among many others.

Chris Payn has won a widespread following with his electrifying vocals and multi-instrumental prowess.

Drawing on influences as diverse as Queen, Meat Loaf and David Bowie, he has moulded a sound that sits anywhere between Prince and the 1975.

Now backed by the talented The Parade, his songs take their place at the

forefront of an explosive live show.

Described aptly by one DJ as ‘the love child of Motorhead and Johnny Cash’, The Outlaw Orchestra exude Saturday night energy with slide and pedal steel guitars, banjo, gravel vocals and solid thumping drums delivering original catchy, hard-rocking songs about everyday life laced with Deep South spirits, all delivered with British rock ‘n’ roll humour.

They have supported Skid Row, The Dead Daisies, The Darkness, Brothers Osbourne, Phil Campbell of Motorhead on tour, Reef, The Kentucky Headhunters and many more.

The gig is in Lighthouse Poole’s Theatre space on Thursday, February 5.

Barnes archive project work under way WORK to preserve the William Barnes Archive is under way, following the William Barnes Society’s successful campaign to raise £35,000 in support of the project at Dorset History Centre.

The archive, which contains 65 boxes of letters, manuscripts and papers relating to the Dorset-born poet and scholar, was deposited at the History Centre in 2018 by Dorset Museum and Art Gallery, which still owns the collection.

Sam Johnston, manager of the History Centre in Dorchester, outlined plans for

the project at the society’s annual meeting.

He confirmed that archivist Ruth Burton will lead the work, drawing on earlier cataloguing efforts by volunteers when the collection was housed at Dorset Museum and Art Gallery.

“By the summer of 2026, we’ll have a fully searchable online catalogue that anyone can explore and enjoy,” Mr Johnston said.

Claire Dixon, executive director of the Dorset Museum & Art Gallery, said: “We are looking forward to being able to

inform new displays and stories both in our galleries and online, made possible by this new online archive.”

The project will run until July 2026 and will involve collaboration between Dorset History Society, William Barnes

Society and local volunteers.

The History Centre will share updates as the project progresses through its public newsletter and monthly lunchtime series, From the Stacks, where archivists highlight items from Dorset’s collections.

Event Danny Mellor Presents UNDERMINED. A One Man Play set in the 1984 Miners’ Strike. Piddletrenthide Memorial Hall.

Friday 23rd January 7.30pm. Tickets online at artsreach.co.uk or from Kelvin Bland: 07786-880676

36

The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026

Arts & Entertainment

purbeckgazette.co.uk

Soap stars and an unlikely musical cult figure

EASTENDERS star Matthew James Morrison will join Wendi Peters in the 20th anniversary UK tour of the hit West End comedy Glorious!, coming to Lighthouse Poole.

Morrison played Felix Baker and his alter ego Tara Misu – the first drag queen to appear as a regular character in a British soap opera – for over three years.

He will be Cosme McMoon in Glorious, the true story of American socialite Florence Foster Jenkins (Wendi Peters), 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 cult-

figure in New York 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 Carnegie Hall, building an unlikely friendship with her accompanist, Cosme McMoon, and defying her army of critics to follow her dreams.

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 television

Wendy Peters is Florence Foster Jenkins in Glorious!

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).

Glorious! wowed audiences in its original long-running West End production starring Dame Maureen Lipman in 2005, before coming to the silver screen in a film starring Meryl Streep and Hugh Grant.

The show has since been seen by millions of people around the world, translated into 25 languages and performed in 36 countries to date.

Glorious! runs from Tuesday to Saturday, February 10-14, at 7.45pm, with 2.30pm matinees on Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday.

Gentle dance for the over-60s

A SECOND series of the popular 12-week Dance Because You Can workshops for the over-60s is set to get under way at The Mowlem in Swanage and The Exchange in Sturminster Newton.

The gentle dance classes, run

by Pavilion Dance South West and Dorset arts charity Artsreach, are designed for older people who would benefit from low level fitness, socialising and having fun.

Yvonne Gallimore, Artsreach assistant director, said: “We are

very grateful to both the Britford Bridge Trust and Dorset Community Foundation for their continued support of these sessions, enabling us to run a second series of workshops in north Dorset, while expanding the offer to reach individuals living in Purbeck.

“As the winter months approach and we all tend to spend more time indoors, these workshops have actively helped

to connect people with each other in their local communities and help reduce loneliness and isolation.”

The classes, led by a specially trained teacher from Pavilion Dance South West, launch on Thursday, January 8, and run every week until March 26.

The classes cost £8 and are open to anyone over 60 who would like to improve their fitness, have fun and meet new

people – no dance experience is necessary and post-class refreshments and social time are included.

Those interested in finding out more can attend the first session as a taster, before committing to the 12 weeks.

Anyone not mobile enough to attend alone is asked to bring a carer for more support.

Classes at The Mowlem will run every Thursday from 10.30am-noon and can be booked by contacting 01929 422239.

DO YOU HAVE A STORY? Then email ed@purbeckgazette.co.uk

The Purbeck Gazette, January 5, 2026 37

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