April 2020
Promoting your local area
THE
SWANAGE
Oracle
All major credit & debit cards accepted & DEVELOPERS LTD
ALL ASPECTS OF ROOFING & BUILDING WORKS UNDERTAKEN
* New Pitched Roofs * Flat Roofs * Conservatory Roofs * Stone Roofs * Roof Repairs * Lead work * Chimneys Removed & Repaired * Roof Ventilation * UPVC Fascia, Soffit, Guttering, Windows & Doors * Extensions * Loft Conversions * Plastering * Damp Proofing * Carpentry * Bathrooms & Kitchens LOCAL FAMILY BUSINESS • 30 YRS EXPERIENCE • FULLY INSURED • WORKS GUARANTEED • FREE SURVEYS & QUOTES
01929 46 33 49 / 47 28 09 • 07799 26 11 05 / 0800 567 7614 • www.purbeckhomeimprovements.co.uk
Brought to you by
Purbeck Publications Promoting your local area
www.purbeckpublications.co.uk
2
Email: info@philiptrimcontractors.com
SALE OFF
ER
29% off
Spring Sale • •
Space saving Fully insulated Fully automatic No maintenance Reduced draughts So simple to operate Simple key fob operation All doors fitted with bottom safety edge system in compliance with trading standards regulations
Full range of colours Single/Double doors all made in our Bishops Waltham factory
WE SURVEY WE MANUFACTURE WE INSTALL NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED Covering Surrey, Hampshire, Berkshire & Dorset
01962 600777
info@skandoor.co.uk | www.skandoor.co.uk
To advertise in The Swanage Oracle, please call: 01929 408080
3
Leaks Tree Care undertakes all tree and hedge work, this includes: crown reduction, crown thin, crown lift, dead wooding, tree felling, section felling, pollarding, hedge trimming, hedge laying and tree planting. We also offer tree inspections for peace of mind.
Contact Rob on
T: 07519 664197
E: leakstreecare@gmail.com
www.leakstreecare.com Natural Gas, LPG and Oil qualified and registered engineer • All aspects of Plumbing and Heating undertaken • Boiler and Cylinder Installation / Service and Repair • Landlords Gas Safety Certificate • Central Heating System design and installation
Call Rory on: 07980 805157 / 01929 761688 Email: rory@fxrheatingandplumbing.co.uk
www.fxrheatingandplumbing.co.uk
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Introduction
4 Dear Swanage, Studland, Worth Matravers, Langton Matravers, Ulwell and Durlston!
The Swanage Oracle
More than ever your local trades people and businesses need you. Like never before we need to back each other up, support our local trades and not succumb to all the bad news. Winter is a time known for colds and flu. Let’s not succumb but in true British style keep smiling and soldier on. The Oracle and all its local businesses are here for you. Each and every one of the trades inside is open for business and would like you to use their services. Please do call and get their help for whatever you need in the home, or for yourself. This is so appreciated.
Edition 137
Published by:
Stephen & Debbie Corney at Purbeck Publications
Telephone:
01929 408080
Email:
info@swanageoracle.co.uk
Copy deadline for the May 2020 edition: 13th April 2020
Disclaimer: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that data in this publication is accurate, the publisher cannot accept any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. The Swanage Oracle does not officially endorse any advertising material included within the publication. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval systems or transmitted in any form, without prior permission of the publisher.
Daichi, the Dashing Dude, has a new look and was very excited to take us to the Isle of Wight last month. You can read all about it inside. If you see him on the road, do give him a wave, he may toot his horn and give you a wave with his window wipers! Life can be fun and Daichi likes to make you smile, as well as show you where we can visit here on our wonderful South Coast. If you have any suggestions about where Daichi should take us next, do let us know. The “Quirky facts on Dorset”, added for your enjoyment and interest, are proving popular. Do have a read. Spring is now officially here so we can all get out and about more easily and enjoy some of that fresh country air. Don’t all the daffodils look beautiful! Stephen, myself and the team here do hope you have a great month of April. A very Happy Easter to you! Very Best Wishes,
Debbie, Stephen, Hayden & Daichi
Useful Numbers Local Police Southern Electricity Transco Gas Emergency Swanage Hospital
101 0800 072 7282 0800 111999 01929 422282
Train Enquires Wilts & Dorset Bus Wessex Water Emerg. Purbeck Distict Council
08457 484950 01983 827005 0845 600 4600 01929 556561
To advertise in The Swanage Oracle, please call: 01929 408080
5
We put the care in hearing care Free Hearing Assessments Fantastic Service and Aftercare Interest Free Payment Plans Choice of Hearing Solutions 60 Day Money Back Guarantee Professional Service Delivered Locally To book a free hearing test with Jon, call Andrea on 01202 877104 119 Victoria Road, Ferndown BH22 9HU wwww.bloomhearing.co.uk
J A Construction (Dorset) Ltd
General Building, Specialists in Extensions, Purbeck Stone Renovations, Walling, Roofing, New Builds & all types of Ground Work. Site and Garden Clearance. Also available for Plumbing, Electrics & Carpentry.
Tel: 01929 554249 Mob: 07973 388 190 sales@jaconstruction.co.uk www.jaconstructiondorset.co.uk Please mention The Swanage Oracle when responding to adverts
Community News
6
Dorset Quirky Facts With its picture perfect landscapes and glorious Jurassic coastline, Dorset is certainly a sparkling gem on the crown of Great Britain. From a look at an interesting Dorset cuisine and an insight into the marine life who call the county home, here is another handful of the quirkiest facts from our beautiful county. 1. Did you know how vital Studland Bay is to national seahorse populations? The Seahorse Trust works tirelessly to help study and research these Photo: Neil beautiful creatures Garrick-Maidment and spends much time observing the mesmerizing hippocampi in their natural habitat as well as using photography as a means of identification. After years of campaigning and thanks to the Trust’s hard work and dedication, Studland Bay became a Marine Conservation Zone recently and its new status helps to secure the homes of these jewels of the ocean. 2. Interestingly, although the famed Danish prince Cnut the Great was buried in Winchester, Hampshire’s county town, it was actually in Dorset that he died in the 11th century. Renowned in England’s history as one of the most successful invading royals before the Norman Conquest, Cnut is thought to have died at Shaftesbury Abbey in 1035. 3. It is well known that Thomas Hardy is one of the county’s most famous sons, however were you aware of his important role within Dorset society
when he presided as magistrate at the Shire Hall? On many Photo: Marcin occasions, the Wisniewski 19th century writer served a serious role within the social system of Dorset’s past and it is strongly believed that the writer took much inspiration from his experiences which many say lead to the penning of his famous book Tess of the d’Urbervilles. Today the Shire Hall is open to the public and you can walk in the footsteps of the great author himself. 4. Britain as a nation has a wealth of fascinating surnames and certainly Dorset has its very own collection of unusual family names. According to the 1881 Census records, Dorset could boast some of the most popular surnames as well as some rather quirky ones. According to the census, White was the most common surname and Smith was a close second however names such as Cake, Diffey, Kail and Rideout were among many others also flooding official records in the county. 5. Locals and visitors alike are able to taste for themselves the many different local delicacies that the county has had to offer for many years. One heritage favourite is the Dorset Knob biscuit which is produced by Moores Biscuits, the only biscuit makers to do so. The biscuit’s name is derived from the county’s history of Dorset buttons and reportedly the biscuits were a favourite tea time treat for Thomas Hardy! by Mica Bale
To advertise in The Swanage Oracle, please call: 01929 408080
7
Stay warm this winter!
DRAIN UNBLOCKING • Toilets • Sinks • Baths • Showers • Sewers • Soakaways • Camera Surveys • Drain Repairs & New Installations
With summer now behind us and the cold months upon us your heating is going to become increasingly important! Ensure you stay warm this winter by booking you boiler service now to ensure your heating is ready for festive period, if last winter is anything to go by then you’re going to need it! • Gas and oil services available from fully qualified engineers • Commercial and domestic covered • Efficient and friendly service • Competitive rates To book your service or quote contact us on
01305 853970 or 07557 990715 or email us at heatcareukltd@aol.com
Visit our website:
www.heatcareukltd.com
Upton Farm, Upton, Ringstead, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8NE
24/7
01929 666 226 www.dorsetdrainunblocking.co.uk
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Community News
8
Digital Champion’s bright idea helps Barbara switch and save A lady from Dorchester has benefitted from free digital sessions on how to change suppliers online and has managed to save over £450 a year on energy bills with the first switch. Barbara Scanlon went online at Dorchester library under the guidance of her local volunteer Digital Champion Mike Watson. She visited a price comparison website and worked out that with just a few digital moves she would be over £40 a month better off. Mike has been helping her master a range of digital skills to do household bills and chores online such as paying Council Tax, setting up insurance, joining a loyalty discount scheme, using email, printing and using price comparison sites.
Digital Champions work in communities, usually in libraries, one-to-one with people to help improve their digital skills. They are volunteers who enjoy using computers and have the patience and enthusiasm to show others how to benefit from being online, in this case how to save money. To get help from your own Digital Champion and find out how much you could save, please call us and we will put you in touch with your nearest Digital Champion. Call now 01305 221048 or search online for Dorset Digital Champions.
Mike said: “All Digital Champions are able to help you master the skills to do these essential households tasks online and a whole lot more. Don’t waste time and money, just book a slot to see your local Digital Champion and we will help you every step of the way. It won’t cost you a penny.” To advertise in The Swanage Oracle, please call: 01929 408080
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All Grass
Landscapes
We are an independent local company that specializes in all aspects of landscaping.
• Supply & install any size and type of artificial lawn • Any size of hard or soft landscaping, including: lawns, fencing, decking, patios, driveways, etc. • Over 15 years experience
For a free, no obligation quote, please call Will on 01929 503135 or 07522 987090
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10
TEA & CAKES
1) ingic carsug . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Unscramble the letters on the right to find things to do with Tea and Cakes. Each one has an extra letter: Identify these to find the name of another hot drink you might have instead of Tea.
2) ateplo
3) famcre
4) gefspon
5) eat etpo
6) meja
Extra Letter.
.......................... .......................... .......................... .......................... ..........................
Extra Letter Answer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
To advertise in The Swanage Oracle, please call: 01929 408080
11
wardon hill trading post
Fixed quote work Replacement Doors Laminate Flooring Decking Truss & Cut Roofing General Carpentry General Building Maintenance
ANTIQUES • VINTAGE • COLLECTABLES • CRAFT
OVER 60 TRADERS • TEAROOM • DOG FRIENDLY FREE PARKING • WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE A37 DORCHESTER – YEOVIL • DT2 9PW OPEN MON – SAT 9-5 / SUN 9-4 SPACE AVAILABLE TO RENT • TEL: 01935 83069 FIND US ON FACEBOOK
Call Peter Albin
Mobile 07834 983022 Home 01929 425048
www.totalwoodwork.co.uk
SELF STORAGE UNITS TO LET (for private use)
Insulated, Individually Alarmed for Furniture, Classic Cars or Documents
East Stoke, Wareham
J Taylor Electrical • • • • • • • •
NICEIC approved contractor Established 2002 Friendly Swanage based service From small jobs to rewires Domestic and commercial work Inspection and testing Replacement fuseboxes Electrical control systems for central and under floor heating
Tel: 07836 369969
Call John on
E: mb@malcolmbarnes.co.uk www.purbeckselfstorage.co.uk
or 07966 167978
Swanage 422989 E: johntaylor294@gmail.com
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Wildlife News
12
Talking about Wildlife...
Return of the barn owls The silent flight of a barn owl is a majestic and wonderful sight for any nature lover. With the features of their heart shaped faces and deep black eyes, they are an unmistakable icon of the countryside in the UK. However, it may surprise you to hear that the odds are stacked against these wonderful creatures, with a long list of challenges and problems they face daily. Firstly, there’s the two things we all need: food and shelter. Declining or unsuitable habitat means that both of these vital elements to their survival immediately puts them at threat. Suitable roosting sites, and then good quality unimproved grassland for their prey to live (such as voles and mice) can be hard to come by if the quality of the habitat close to them isn’t good enough. During the breeding season, they need to have a plentiful food source within 1km of their roost – their chicks can eat their own body weight in food in one night! The next challenge is overcoming the physical limitations of the barn owls’ wings, which aren’t waterproof so they can be adversely affected by the weather. They are also unable to store a lot of body fat, and therefore are particularly prone to starvation during prolonged periods of severe weather or when there is shortage of prey. However, there are sites where barn owls can thrive. One of those is Dorset Wildlife
Trust’s nature reserve, Lorton Meadows, in Weymouth, where we have seen many chicks fledge each year as a result of the excellent habitat surrounding the barn owl box. Careful habitat management carried out all year round by DWT conservation staff and volunteers means that this site can provide the food and shelter barn owls need to survive. This year we are streaming the latest pair of barn owls which are roosting and preparing for breeding, live on our webcam which is sponsored by PFM Associates. You can watch the barn owls here, and hopefully, enjoy many hours of witnessing the true beauty of nature as they raise their chicks at the Lorton Meadows nature reserve. Watch now at: www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/ wildlifewebcam By Sally Welbourn Communications Officer Barn Owls at Lorton
Photo: Paul Williams
To advertise in The Swanage Oracle, please call: 01929 408080
13
MASTERS IN BLOCK PAVING AND TARMAC
County Block Paving
Ltd SINCE 1990
Block Paving Tarmacadam
Resin Patios
All work fully guaranteed
•
Walls Fencing etc. No deposits
90% of our work comes from customer recommendations Office: 01202 069925 Mobile: 07437 476 732 Email: countyblockpaving@hotmail.com www.countyblockpaving.co.uk
C
M PLUMBING & HEATING Local Gas & Heating Engineers
• • • • •
Boiler/Fire Ser vicing Landlord Gas Safe Inspections New Boiler Replacements Power Flushing Unvented Hot Water Cylinder Installations • Bathrooms, Shower Rooms, Wet Rooms 180993 • Design &installations
Tel: 01929 550160
M: 07790 056396
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14
Trust Trickett with your beloved Classic At Trickett Welding, we are proud of our long-standing trading history as the most exceptional classic car specialists in Dorset. As our clients would expect, our team are dedicated to providing a reliable and professional service at all times. We guarantee excellent value for money and ensure that all of our work is completed to only the highest standard. If you’re looking for welding in Poole, or classic car repairs in Bournemouth, your search is over now that you’ve found Trickett Welding. We always carry a stock of cars awaiting restoration/improvement to varying degrees. For the customer
who requires a car restored to their own individual requirements they can select a base car, specify colours and standard required for which we will provide a written quote and time scale (usually 6 months to a year). The customer is more than welcome to visit and inspect progress and see their car evolve into something very special and unique of which they can be proud. Our dedication and genuine passion for classic cars mean that we’re also proud sponsors of Classic Cars on the Prom. Please get in contact today for further information on 01202 625050 or visit our website: www.trickettweldingltd.co.uk
Is your Classic in need of some expert attention?
• Restorations
• Waxoyl Treatment
• Servicing & Mechanical Repairs
• Stage Payments For Restoration
• Accident & MOT Repairs
• Collection & Delivery By Arrangement
Telephone:
01202 625050
www.trickettweldingltd.co.uk
Welding (Poole) Ltd
To advertise in The Swanage Oracle, please call: 01929 408080
15
35 years experience. Installation & repairs. Bathrooms, central heating & general plumbing work undertaken. Fully Insured. Labour is guaranteed for 12 months. Email: candcplumbing@btinternet.com www.candcplumbingservices.co.uk
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16
Flowers arranged with sincerity Weddings & Tributes to loved ones • Bouquets & arrangements for special occasions • Flowers for parties and events
Caroline Finch
T: 01929 427776 M: 07966 462974
E: c.f.m.finch@btinternet.com W: budsofmave.com
Plant of the month Pulmonaria
Nothing says “Spring” more than a bright, vibrant, colourful flower and you can find all these qualities in the Pulmonaria plant. More commonly referred to as ‘Lungwort’, the Pulmonaria are wonderful as they can act as both foliage and flower. Their ever changing leaves can be found in shades of plain green, silver or with splashes of white. Their flowers also come in a variety of beautiful shades of blue, pink, white and red. They are native to Europe and thrive in British gardens and are well known for being woodland plants. Pulmonarias hate dry conditions but are relatively easy to grow and can be grown under shrubs or trees.
To advertise in The Swanage Oracle, please call: 01929 408080
17
Dorset & Wight Wills Your Local Experts in providing Affordable
LASTING POWER of ATTORNEYS Probably the most important documents you will ever own. Wills: £140 each - Single Power of Attorneys: £140 each
Special Offer 1: Both Lasting Power of Attorneys for a single person £270 (save £10)
Special Offer 2: All four Lasting Power of Attorneys for a couple £530 (save £30)
Special Offer 3: All four Lasting Power of Attorneys and two Wills for a couple £798 (save £42)
Special Offer 4: A complete Property Protection Trust, Wills and all four Lasting Power of Attorneys for a couple - Limited time offer £999 (save £350) Protect your property from paying for care fees and other third-party predators.
We are specialists in providing for the elderly or less mobile. Everything is dealt with in the comfort of your own home. All home visits are completely FREE of charge. Members of the Society of Will Writers and Estate Planning Practitioners.
Book your FREE home visit now on 01202 065953 or 01983 623900 Ferndown, Dorset and Isle of Wight
www.dorsetandwight.co.uk
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What’s On 2020… 16th April 2020
Dormice and Woodland Management: A Woodman’s Perspective Christchurch Baptist Church Hall, 49 Bargates, Christchurch, BH23 1QT £2 per person, including coffee and biscuits. NUS card holders free.
18th April 2020 Great Dorset Beach Clean At Hengistbury Head Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve, Broadway, Southbourne, Bournemouth, BH6 4EW We are hosting a beach clean as part of Litter Free Coast and Sea’s annual event, The Great Dorset Beach Clean. Starts at 9am, wear appropriate footwear and clothing. Email hengistbury.head@ bcpcouncil.gov.uk to register.
25th April 2020 St George’s Day Fair St Georges Church Fordington, Dorchester, DT1 1LB 12pm to 3pm, all the fun of the fair.
26th April 2020 Stargazing at Durlston Durlston Country Park,
Lighthouse Road, Swanage, BH19 2JL Join the Wessex Astronomical Society for a short talk in the Learning Centre and a chance to use telescopes to view the night sky.Time: 8:15 pm - 10:45 pm Booking not required 01929 424443.
26th April 2020 Blue Light Day Beaulieu, New Forest, Hampshire, SO42 7ZN Get up-close to the latest emergency services vehicles at Blue Light Day on Sunday 26th April 01590 612 345 Normal entry fee for all the Beaulieu attractions covers the event as well.
28th April 2020 Banff Mountain Film Festival Tivoli Theatre, West Borough, Wimborne, BH21 1LT Join the world’s top adventure filmmakers and explorers as they push themselves to the limits in the most remote and stunning corners of the globe. Starts at 6.30pm. Tel: 01202 885566 .
1st May 2020 Latino Night with Mr Eversley Poole Hill Brewery, 41-43 Poole Hill, Bournemouth, BH2 5PW
First Friday Latino Party every month at Poole hill Brewery with live music from Mr Eversley.
2nd May 2020 Mini Steam on the Quay Poole Quay, Poole, BH15 1HJ A great free day out with the sounds and smells of steam organs and engines, coupled with the boats and goings on of the Quay 10am to 5pm.
8th May 2020 Saxons & Vikings: Siege of Wareham Corfe Castle, Corfe , Wareham, BH20 5DW Over the weekend the event starts at 10am, its free but normal venue charges will apply. Phone 01929 481294 for more details.
8th May 2020 VE Day 75 The Tank Museum, Linsay Road, Bovington, Wareham, BH20 6JG Celebrate the 7th Anniversary of VE day at the Tank Museum, 01929 405 096 Adult £13 Child £8.50, family tickets available.
8th-10th May 2020 Christchurch Food Festival Christchurch Town Centre, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 1QA
The Christchurch Food Festival is a fast-growing business-led event.. On Saturday 8th May and Sunday 9th May, the Street Market will once again be through the whole of Christchurch town centre, with stalls the length of the High Street selling food to take home, ingredients, cakes, cooking utensils, wines, liqueurs and lots more besides as well as delicious snacks to eat there and then… the vast majority of whom are of local provenance.
9th May 2020 Duck Race & Funday Tom Browns Pub, 47 High East St Dorchester, DT1 1HU The return of the Tom Browns Duck Race in aid of CLIC. A wonderful day for all the family Live music and entertainment.
13th May 2020 Guided Walk - Ferndown Common Wimborne Road, Ferndown, BH22 9ND Join one of ARC’s Dorset Field Officers for a guided walk around Ferndown Common. Phone 01202 391 319 for or email James. anderson-barr@arc-trust.org for more details. Suggested donation £3.
To keep up to date with what’s on in Dorset go to:
www.WhatsOnInDorset.co.uk
Puzzle Corner
20
Pop the kettle on... 4 6
3
8
4
5
9
8
4 7
9 8
1
3
3
6
2
8
2 7
1
6
1
Across 8 Rubber wheel (4) 9 Keyboard instrument (5) 10 X X X X (4) 11 Tremblors (6) 12 Cornhusker state (8) 13 Winking (8) 15 Customs duty (6) 17 Proceeding in small stages (7) 19 Varnish (7) 22 Respite (6) 24 Step (8) 26 Marrow squash plant (8) 28 Enrol (6) 30 Leg joint (4) 31 Step (5) 32 Latin for "Will be" (4)
9
5
Crossword
Down 1 Place (4) 2 Summoned (8) 3 Dwarf ornamental tree (6) 4 Punches of sweetened milk and eggs (7) 5 Cliquish (8)
6 Pack up and leave (6) 7 A euphemism for "Hell" (4) 14 Big (5) 16 A cloak (5) 18 Ails (8) 20 Deceased (8)
21 Where administrative workers work (7) 23 Irritated (6) 25 Do to excess (6) 27 Vases (4) 29 The founder of a family (4)
To advertise in The Swanage Oracle, please call: 01929 408080
MPT
21
Tiling & Bathroom Installations
• 5K Bathroom suite offer • Local showroom
We can supply and fit a brand-new bathroom suite to include the following: ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊
Removal existing suite, wall tiles and floor covering Supply and install vanity unit with soft closed doors, sink, mixer tap or pedestal Supply and fit WC, new bath with white gloss panel, bath mixer tap and waste Supply and fit wall and floor tiles up to 18m2. l(Large choice available) Fitting of any accessories WE ARE A LOCAL BUSINESS WITH OVER 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE
DON’T DELAY CALL TODAY FOR A FREE, NO OBLIGATION QUOTE FOR YOUR 5K BATHROOM
Tel: 07709 145866 • DOORS, WINDOWS & LOCKS GLASS REPAIRS: MISTED, DAMAGED DOUBLE GLAZED UNITS REPLACED. PVC-U & TIMBER WINDOWS & DOORS INSTALLED. INTERIOR DOORS FITTED. PVC-U DOOR PANELS REPLACED. CAT FLAPS FITTED. KEY SAFES FITTED. LOCKS OPENED, REPLACED, UPGRADED. SNAPPED KEYS EXTRACTED. HANDLES - HINGES - LETTER BOXES SEALS - GASKETS REPLACED SECONDARY GLAZING SUPPLIED & FITTED.
Tel: 01929 481496 Mobile: 07484 186617 Email: dwlocks@outlook.com
FENSA, MTC - CRB CHECKED. GGFI INSURANCE-BACKED GUARANTEE
Email: marktoyer@sky.com
MALLWOOD ROOFING LTD
A local family business with over 45 years experience. High Performance Felt, Cold Applied Liquid Systems, Single Ply Membranes, Tiling & Slating. All new work fully guaranteed. Full Public Liability Insurance. For a no obligation quote call Matt:
01202 020063 / 07950 972289 www.mallwoodroofing.co.uk
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The Adventures of Daichi
22
The Adventures of Daichi
The Purbeck Publications Camper Van Daichi has a brand new very colourful kimono! His playful character wanting all to have fun and live a little (despite all the news recently) is now clearly visible. Daichi, the Dashing Dude, the Purbeck Publications campervan has one purpose in life and that is to make you smile. He may well be made of metal, but he has a life of his own and last month was in full spirit when he skipped his way to the Isle of Wight in his new shiny suit. He had children waving at him and a surfer gave him his ‘shaka’ hand signal, which is a ‘surf signal of approval or greeting’, carrying his surfboard off the beach at Shanklin. In fact, Daichi was so excited about his trip that we caught the earlier ferry and got onto the island an hour ahead of time. We love the Isle of Wight and you may remember that Nellie, Daichi’s grandmother also took us there a few years ago. We had booked a house on the cliff top at Luccombe, between Ventnor and Shanklin. This time the weather was cold, wet and windy.
View from the balcony over Shanklin Bay
Daichi on the Garage Deck of the ferry There had been storms, trees had fallen, and many would think we were mad. That’s us. But we are British after all. We were lucky with the crossing. Two days earlier people had been on the ferry for 14 hours waiting for the rough seas to calm down. Funnily enough because we actually arrived earlier than planned, for some reason I kept being a day ahead of myself, which was great as I gained a day every day. Daichi shot me into the future! We had booked through AirBnB. The wooden house on the cliff top was idyllic. Truly. Situated at the end of a track, with only the coastal path winding into the distance, overlooking the misty grey sea with Shanklin Bay in all its glory clearly visible. Exactly what we wanted. Pure peace. The serenity we craved... well just for a little while. Daichi even had his own ‘room’ in the garden to protect him from the wind and the rain. A wooden open car port, he just fitted in. The first night was spooky I have to say as everything went pitch black and I mean pitch black as soon as we switched off the lights. Daichi was all alone outside and I am sure he got scared, so much so that he switched on the light outside to protect
To advertise in The Swanage Oracle, please call: 01929 408080
23 himself. I woke up, also a bit scared I have to say to see a light appear from nowhere. Nothing to do with a moving fox, I am sure. It was Daichi shuddering in the dark that did it! With the howling wind, swaying trees and lashing rain, who could blame him? Despite having been to the Isle of Wight several times now, we had never been to Osborne House. Can you believe it? We are English Heritage members, so for the three of us the whole year’s membership was nearly paid for in this one trip. I learned a lot about Queen Victoria and Albert. The staff are most interesting and they love to talk about what they know. I had no idea how Queen Victoria had been so protected as a child. She could not go out or even go up and down the stairs without someone holding her hand. Her mother was particularly over-protective and when she came to live at Osborne House with them, the Queen made sure she had a room right at the other end of the building. Albert was very talented and designed the house from scratch. It was in fact a new build and totally built as a family home. An escape from London, though dignitaries and even the Prime Minister, Sir Winston Churchill did visit and have meetings there at times. Despite the weather we managed to have a picnic on the beach that Queen Victoria so loved. What a special place. You can almost “feel” Victoria’s presence as you wander around. Daichi was seriously (well playfully) impressed.
Crazy Golf with the pirates!
Osborne House from the gardens Robin Hill Country Park has some very cool events. We were lucky enough to see the Chinese New Year celebrations with dancing Dragons, Chinese food, lanterns and lights. It turns out that I am a Dragon (according to the Chinese Zodiac), but to some there is no surprise there! Then of course Daichi had to take me to Isle of Wight Pearl on the west coast. A girl just has to do some shopping every now and then. The grey water pearl earrings were an early Mother’s Day present and lovely they are. We had fun in Shanklin at the crazy golf. Stephen won another game at the end on the last shot when he rang the bell, so we had to go back the next day to play again, but this time on the dinosaur side, as opposed to the pirate side we had played the day before. You can’t beat a game of crazy golf. Prior to that I had helped Hayden with his Spanish homework. It is his big exam year this year, so mocks were planned. I don’t speak Spanish, but his cue cards were fun trying to ask the questions and listening to his responses. We did laugh, which is what family time is all about. Going away even for just a few days has a great way of bringing you together. I am so glad that Daichi came all the way from Japan to help us achieve this. He was beaming with full lights aglow all the way home. Where will he take us next... I wonder? By Debbie Corney
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24
Gardening Tips
house & garden
a beginner’s
GUIDE Strawberries
Strawberries can be grown in most gardens but are particularly successful in milder areas with frost free autumns. If space is limited they are very suitable for container growing - in pots, hanging baskets, even window boxes. Best of all is a strawberry tower or terracotta strawberry pot which allows you to grow a lot of plants in one place and has the added advantage of keeping the fruit off the ground and so dirt free. There are early, mid-season and late varieties so you could try a mixture of plants to extend your season. If using a container, use good compost and a slow-release fertiliser and soak the soil before planting. Have some netting ready for when the fruit appears or the birds might
beat you to it! If planting in the garden, you could consider planting through black plastic sheeting, pegged down and the edges buried to stop it blowing away. It’s best to mound up the soil in the centre where the plants will grow so that water will run off either side. Using this method means no weeding is required and you won’t need to put straw or other matting under the plants to keep the fruit clean. It also helps keep in the moisture and encourages early crops by warming the soil. Protect the flowers in spring if frost is expected, with double sheets of newspaper. Replace plants every 2-3 years which can be done cheaply by spreading out some of the runners from a plant and pegging them down. Once they have rooted and are growing well, lift carefully, detach from the parent plant and transplant to a new plot.
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CABARET CABBAGE CAGIEST
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WADDOCK CROSS, DORCHESTER, DT2 8QY Please visit our eBay shop for the best prices search ‘Wessex Trailers’
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Food & Drink
Tastes so good... Hot Cross Buns
A traditional Easter, springtime treat, why not bake a batch to share with friends, neighbours and colleagues? Delicious served either warm with butter or just plain, at any time of day.
Ingredients for 12 servings 1. Dough 500g Strong Bread Flour 7g Easy bake yeast 275ml whole milk 50g Butter (unsalted, cold, diced) 1 medium beaten egg 75g Unrefined golden caster sugar 1 ½ tsp salt 2. Toppings 75g Sultanas 2 tsp Mixed Spice 100g Plain white flour 50g Mixed peel 50g Apricot Jam 2 medium egg yolks
MIX: Boil the milk in a pan, remove from heat then add the butter. Leave to cool until warm. Mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl and then add the milk and beaten egg, stirring with a wooden spoon. KNEAD: On a lightly floured surface, knead the mixture for approx. 10 minutes. RISE: Lightly grease the large bowl, place the dough in the bowl then cover with a clean cloth and leave to rise until doubled in size – this could be up to two hours dependent on how warm the room is. SHAPE: Sift the mixed spice over the dough, then knead in the sultanas and mixed peel. Slice into 12 even sized pieces, roll into balls and place, well-spaced, on a lined baking tray PROVE: Cover the dough again, and leave until doubled in size again. Preheat oven to fan 180C/200C/Gas 6. BAKE: Score a cross on top of each bun with a sharp knife. Mix the plain flour with a tbsp. of water at a time to form a paste. Use a piping bag to pipe crosses on the buns on the cuts you made. Bake the buns for around 11-15 minutes or until golden.
3.
GLAZE: Melt the jam, sieve then brush apricot glaze over buns and leave to cool on a wire rack.
4.
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Email: sales@wessexaerials.co.uk Phone: (01305) 813010 - Weymouth (01929) 270081 - Swanage www.wessexaerials.co.uk
Near Corfe Castle (on main A351)
Tel: 01929 480098 Spring is arriving... Large selection of Roses, Shrubs, Perennials, Bulbs, Flower & Vegetable Seeds, etc Terracotta Pots – Ornaments Composts – Bamboo Canes General gardening goods Due May 2020 – Summer Bedding and Basket Plants – Herbs and Vegetable plants Local produce, including: Free Range Eggs – Bread – Cakes Honey – Jams – Chutneys – Meat Ales – Cider and Wines Equestrian – Animal and Pet feeds & accessories Wild Bird Feed & Feeders 20kg Wild Bird Seed - £10.95
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Ample Parking and Assistance with Loading
Suppliers and Installers of: Aerial - Satellite - CCTV Wi-Fi points for domestic and commercial situations.
Computer Problems? For prompt and friendly help call Alan on:
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Household Tips
Use toothpaste to clean stains in your sink, bath tub and toilet pan! Rub the toothpaste around with a cloth or an old toothbrush and apply a bit of elbow grease and the stains should come right off. Toothpaste can also be used to clean any silver including jewellery
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Community News
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Index of advertisers
Your quick guide to everyone and everything in your Oracle... Aerials Wessex Aerials........................................................... 27
Foot Care Services West Dorset Mobile Foot Clinic.................................. 7
Antiques & Collectibles Wardon Hill Trading Post........................................... 11
Garage Doors Garolla....................................................................... 15 Skandoor..................................................................... 2
Bathrooms & Tiling MPT Tiling & Bathrooms........................................... 21 Blinds, Curtains & Shutters Ashley Blinds............................................................... 3 Broadview Shading Solutions.................................... 31
Garage Services Trickett Welding......................................................... 14 Garden Services All Grass Landscapes.................................................. 9
Builders J A Construction.......................................................... 5 Jim Baggley Building Services..................................... 9 Purbeck Home Improvements.................................... 1
Hearing Services Bloom Hearing............................................................ 5
Carpenters Total Woodwork - Peter Albin.................................... 11
Pest Control Terminator Pest.......................................................... 9
Community News Adventures of Daichi................................................. 22 Beginner’s Guide: Strawberries................................. 24 Digital Champion’s bright idea helps Barbara switch and save.......................................... 8 Dorset Police.............................................................. 28 Dorset Quirky Facts.................................................... 6 Dorset Wildlife Trust: Return of the barn owls.......... 12 Kaleidoscope at the Mowlem.................................... 29 Kids Page................................................................... 10 Plant of the month: Pulmonaria................................ 16 Puzzle Corner............................................................. 20 Tastes so good: Hot Cross Buns................................. 26 What’s On in Dorset.................................................. 18
Plumbers C + C Plumbing........................................................... 15 CM Plumbing & Heating............................................ 13 FXR Heating & Plumbing............................................ 3 Heatcare..................................................................... 7 Purbeck Plumbing, Heating & Drainage.................... 11
Computer Services AJV Computing.......................................................... 27 Drainage Services All Drains Cleared...................................................... 19 Dorset Drain Unblocking............................................ 7
Home Care Services Bluebird Care............................................................. 25
Property Maintenance Purbeck Home Improvements.................................... 1 Total Woodwork - Peter Albin.................................... 11 Removals & Storage Purbeck Self Storage.................................................. 11 Roofing Mallwood Roofing..................................................... 25 Solicitors Humphries Kirk.......................................................... 32 Trailers Wessex Trailers.......................................................... 25
Driveways County Block Paving.................................................. 13
Tree Surgeons Leaks Tree Care........................................................... 3
Electricians J Taylor Electrical....................................................... 11
Waste Services Philip Trim Contractors............................................... 2
Farm Shops Norden Farm Shop..................................................... 27
Will Writing Services Dorset & Wight Wills................................................. 17
Florists Buds of Mave............................................................. 16
Windows & Doors Doors, Windows, Locks.............................................. 21
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Blinds
Shutters
Awnings
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Outdoor Structures
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INDOOR & OUTDOOR SHADING SOLUTIONS (exclusions apply)
To book your free home appointment call 01202 679012 or visit www.broadview.co.uk
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Purbeck Publications Promoting your local area
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