The Swanage
Oracle
May 2018
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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 • Bathroom refurbishment
Call Rory on: 07980 805157 / 01929 761688 Email: rory@fxrheatingandplumbing.co.uk
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4
Introduction
The Swanage Edition 114
Oracle
Published by:
Stephen & Debbie Corney at Purbeck Publications
Telephone: 01929 408080 Email: info@swanageoracle.co.uk
Copy deadline for the June 2018 edition: 14th May 2018
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.
Proud members of
Dear Swanage, Studland, Worth Matravers, Langton Matravers and Ulwell! We certainly have had mixed weather recently and we are all hoping for that wonderful summer sunshine to come back soon. Do you have a holiday planned this year, or are you going to relax at home with a good book and a cuppa? Whatever you decide we do hope you are looking forward to it. We have a trip to Wales this month which we are definitely looking forward to. We are then going to stay local in the summer holidays as our little Rockley Park caravan is proving to be very successful. Well, hopefully we have a ray of sunshine here in the magazine for you with lots of good news and articles for you to read. Nellie is back! She took us to a “Murder Mystery Dinner” which sounds rather sombre but was actually a whole lot of fun. I do hope you enjoy the story as much as we enjoyed the evening. Nellie highly recommends you try one. Our loyal advertisers are here to help you as always. Some new ones too. They would all love to hear from you so please do the usual and mention us when calling them. If you have time to write a ‘testimonial’ for any of them, for good work they have done, do send it to us. We, and the advertisers, love to hear from you. The lucky winner of the prize wordsearch last month was Susan Cross. Well done! Will it be you this month? Do fill it in as you never know. Stephen, Hayden, Nellie and myself hope you have a wonderful month of May. May we all be able to get outside and enjoy those gorgeous spring flowers! Best wishes,
Debbie & Stephen Corney Cover photo: Stephen Corney
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
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T: 01305 853970
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A holiday venue for the discerning
Upton Farm Holiday Cottages, Upton Farm, Ringstead, Dorset, DT2 8NE
Luxury Self Catering Accommodation on your doorstep... If you lack the room to accommodate visiting family and friends, why not suggest they stay with us and make a ‘mini holiday’ of it too! You can be confident they will be impressed by your exquisite taste, enchanted by our luxurious historic cottages set in manicured gardens frequented by wildlife, and will enjoy the freedom of their ‘own space’ between times spent with you - what’s more - you won’t have the work of waiting on them!! Cottages sleep 2-4 or 6 persons in sumptuous comfort and are probably only a few minutes drive from your home... Just a thought... why not stay here with them and treat yourself to a break too?
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6
Community News
There will be Sunflowers in Swanage this year! Last summer, Swanage was awash with Sunflowers for the ‘Sunflowers Over Swanage’ project sponsored by the Emmanuel Baptist Church. This year, there will be more sunflowers... but not quite on such a grand scale!
From April 15, the church in Victoria Avenue will have small packets of seeds for anyone who wants them, and all residents are invited to pop along to the church coffee shop any weekday morning between 10 and 12 to collect a few. They can be nurtured at home then returned to the church in June to be planted in the church garden or replanted outdoors to grow in local gardens so we can all watch them grow through the summer.
Other organisations who took part last year, such as the Coastguards, the RNLI and the Tourist Office will all have sunflower displays and the little community of shops and offices in Commercial Road will be planting beautiful displays in outdoor tubs and planters too. Last year, Kev from the Buffmonger’s shop in Commercial Road, grew an amazing 17 footer and won the cup for ‘Tallest Sunflower in Town!’ The Sunflowers Over Swanage Facebook page would welcome your photos if you are growing a sturdy sunflower from one of Emmanuel’s seeds … and who knows? Someone might top 17 feet this year! If you have a giant in the making – do let the church know, either via the Facebook page or email events@ emmanuelbc.org.uk Let’s hope the sun shines on Swanage via the sunflowers this summer!
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COMPETITIVE CONSTRUCTION Dorset Ltd
E: compcondorset@gmail.com
Experienced local builder specialising in: Fitted Kitchens & Bathrooms Decking Listed Building Work Extensions & Renovations Loft Conversions All trades handled
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We can support all of your funeral needs and will guide you through this difficult time with professional advice, care and empathy
Funeral arrangements
Memorial masonry
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Our number one priority is looking after you
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Community News
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Purbeck District Council objects to proposed ferry toll increases Members of Purbeck District Council have voted unanimously to object to proposed toll increases for the Studland Ferry and the Leader of the Council has written to the Secretary of State to make the Council’s objections clear. The ferry company is consulting on proposals to increase the tolls up to the year 2022. In his letter, Councillor Gary Suttle expressed the Council’s concerns that the proposed increases would have a detrimental impact on local residents who rely on the ferry to get to and from work; and therefore on the local economy. Councillor Suttle said: “The rate of inflation as of December 2017 was 3%. All of the proposed increases, with the exception of books of tickets, in April 2018 are above 3% with some as high as 33%. With Purbeck having some of the lowest wages in the South West and with a significant number of jobs in the tourist industry that are traditionally low paid this adds an additional cost in getting to and from work, in some cases an extra £21 a week by 2022.” Councillor Suttle also stressed the effect the proposed increases would have on residents of Studland and Swanage who need to get to Poole (and vice versa) and who would be less inclined to use the ferry if the increases were enforced. He said: “The only alternative route is a 20 mile road trip on a road that passes through several villages that are already congested at peak times, but particularly in summer months. The additional road traffic will contribute to increased pollution, and would contradict the Government’s policy of improving air quality.” It is up to the Secretary of State to decide whether or not to approve the ferry company’s application to raise the tolls. However, the Council
believes the Secretary of State would be acting unreasonably if he were to approve them. Councillor Suttle has also drawn the Secretary of State’s attention to the company accounts which show that a significant dividend has been paid to shareholders over the years, with no prudential allocation to ferry reserves despite the company knowing it will eventually reach the end of its useful life in 2026. He also pointed out that the public notice of the application for an increase is misleading by not showing the tolls current at the time that public notice was given; rather it showed the tolls as at 1 April 2018. The percentage increases are as a consequence greater than suggested. Councillor Suttle concluded: “While the Council understands that some increases are necessary to meet operational costs and a ferry reserve is required, it requests that the company re-submit their application to propose fare increases that are closer to inflation with some of the costs for the new ferry financed by a reduced dividend to the shareholders.”.
Cllr Gary Suttle
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Community News
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Ward Goodman host Dorset Charities Conference Ward Goodman is returning to Queen Elizabeth School in Wimborne to host their annual Dorset Charities Conference on Thursday 5th July. This event has earned its place in the Dorset events’ calendar by welcoming charities and businesses for the seventh year running. “This conference is special to the local charities’ community as it offers a day of variety, including listening to eminent speakers, learning from others and networking with specialist suppliers. It’s a day organised for members of charities and community organisations to share ideas, experiences and identify opportunities to work together,” comments Jen Richardson, Audit & Charities Director. This year the conference is supported by Teachers Building Society and CAF Bank. Trade stands, presentations and networking opportunities bring together charities and sector suppliers to facilitate collaborative working. Speakers include Jon Yates, CEO, Dorset Community Foundation and Dr. Claire Routley, Consultant, Legacy Fundraising. If you have a business that currently supplies or would like to supply the charities sector; if you are a volunteer or professional looking for help with continuing professional development in the sector or you would just like to come along; please visit our website: www.wardgoodman.co.uk/dcc-info or call us on 01202 875900.
DCC DORSET CHARITIES CONFERENCE
The Annual Dorset Charities Conference
Thursday 5th July 10am - 5pm (doors open at 9am for stand registration) • Trade stands • Networking opportunities • Presentations • Lunch and refreshments including home made cakes To book please visit:
www.wardgoodman.co.uk/dcc-info
For more information or to discuss your individual circumstances call us on 01202 875900, send an email to enquiries@wardgoodman.co.uk or visit our website www.wardgoodman.co.uk
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Wildlife News
Talking about Wildlife...
Spend 30 days going wild with Dorset Wildlife Trust is inviting everyone to take up the 30 days wild challenge again this year, asking you to do something wild each day for the 30 days of June. Have you ever just stepped outside your door and listened to the birds around you? Even in the city, wildlife can be found if you just listen or look out for it. Taking a stroll in a wood or local park can help take you away from the constant demands that surround most of us these days. Research has shown that being surrounded by nature can boost your overall mood and sense of wellbeing. I know that for me, just taking 5 minutes to stand in the garden and take a few deep breaths can help calm my mind and set me up for the day ahead. Seeing birds darting between gardens on the way to work, listening to the waves crashing on the beach, the scent of the honeysuckle as I walk by, all these things make me smile and give me a sense of relaxation and appreciation. Dorset Wildlife Trust Communications Officer, Sally Welbourn, said “Studies have shown that spending time outside can improve our feelings of wellbeing, and we want to show people that even if it’s not for long, it can
Enjoying the view at Lorton Meadows Photo: Vicky Ashby
Children hunting bugs
Photo: Matthew Roberts
make you feel better. The great thing about 30 Days Wild is that it’s for everyone, no matter where you are, or what you’re doing. If you only have five minutes, just a walk outside on your lunch break will suffice, or if you have more time, a day out at the beach or on a DWT nature reserve is a great way to enjoy being outside.” Being outside can improve physical health as well as mental health, spending time in the fresh air can increase your energy levels, whilst walking can help build up your stamina and fitness. You may feel that after spending time in your local area you want to do more to conserve these areas for wildlife or meet like minded people at one of DWT’s work parties and help manage the nature reserves across the county. Whatever you decide to do to get back into nature, why not join us for 30 days wild in June and see where it can take you. Sign up for your free 30 Days Wild pack, including a wall planner and lots of inspiration! www.wildlifetrusts.org/30DaysWild Find out more about Dorset Wildlife Trust: www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org By Lydia Harvey
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SELF STORAGE UNITS TO LET (for private use)
Insulated, Individually Alarmed for Furniture, Classic Cars or Documents
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Tel: 07836 369969
Heatcare UK LTD are OFTEC and Gas safe qualified and registered. We are able to cater for all of your Gas, LPG and Oil needs in both the domestic and commercial sectors. Our highly trained engineers have a wealth of experience and are always happy to advise, whether it’s a new bathroom, through to a boiler repair or replacement and anything in-between.
E: mb@malcolmbarnes.co.uk www.purbeckselfstorage.co.uk
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Computer Problems?
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• 10 Month interest free credit available on Worcester installations • Heating • Plumbing • Leadwork To book your service or work contact us on
01305 853970 or 07557 990715 or email us at heatcareukltd@aol.com
Household Tips Whilst cooking, spaghetti, rice or noodles, add one teaspoon of cooking oil or one teaspoon of butter to the water in the pan. This will prevent the water from boiling over and help to stop the grains or strands from sticking together.
Visit our website:
www.heatcareukltd.com Upton Farm, Upton, Ringstead, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 8NE
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What’s On 2018… Diesel Gala & Beer Festival 2018
A very impressive line- up of diesel locomotives (including a host of visitors) will be in action for all three days, working an intensive timetable, including evening specials. Beer Festival at Corfe Castle station show casing a wide variety of real ales. When? 11th May - 13th May Where? Swanage Railway, Swanage & Corfe Stations
Rocky Flower Show & Plant Fair A must-see event for anybody interested in the diversity of small plants, this competitive show is full of surprises. It is run by the Alpine Garden Society, showcasing mountain plants, small herbaceous plants, dwarf shrubs and bulbs. The plant fair will be attended by specialist alpine and non-alpine nurseries bringing plants suitable for most sites: Aberconwy Nursery, Copton Ash, Hartside Nursery, Kevin Hughes Plants, Leesa’s Alpines, Marina Plants, Parham Bungalow Plants, Potterton’s Nursery, Tale Valley Nursery, The Mead Nursery, Thuya Alpine Nursery. They will be happy to take orders in advance and bring plants for you as well as giving cultivation advice. There is a Plant Forum to give you ideas, photographic display and opportunity for plant photography. Come early for the plant sales and enjoy our home-baked cakes, hot and cold drinks and light lunches.
Admission £3.00 , AGS members and children free When? 19th May 9am - 3:30pm Where? Queen Elizabeth’s School, Pamphill, Wimborne
Athelhampton Flower Festival Annual themed flower festival by Owermoigne Flower Club. Many displays of fresh and dried flowers around the house and gardens. Raising money for a local charity. When? 20th May - 24th May 11am - 4:30pm Where? Athelhampton, Dorchester
Modernism Meets Upton Country Park PEDAS exhibition as part of Dorset Art Weeks 2018. When? 25th May - 11th June, 10am - 5pm Where? The Gallery Upstairs, Upton Country Park, Poole
Purbeck Art Weeks Festival The rich array of art in the many Open Studios, Rollington Barn and other exhibitions attracted visitors from far and wide to beautiful Purbeck. Paintings, sculptures, prints, glass, jewellery, photography, woodwork and ceramics have been enjoyed, bought and discussed from Durlston to Sandford and from Bushey to West Lulworth. When? 26th May - 10th June Where? Various Locations in Purbeck
Art Day at Knoll Gardens In celebration of Dorset Art Weeks the Knoll Gardens Foundation welcomes artists to the garden to be inspired by the Knoll’s acclaimed naturalistic style. Based at Knoll Gardens -Taking its inspiration.... When? Friday 8h June 10am - 3pm Where? Knoll Gardens, WImborne
Cheese and Chilli Festival After a great turnout in 2017, the Cheese and Chilli Festival is back in 2018, celebrating both Cheese and Chilli within a family friendly festival setting. Between 70 and 100 traders selling cheese and chilli associated products as well as craft and retail stands. Entertainments include PIG RACING, Falconry displays, Punch & Judy, Magic Shows, free garden games, children fun rides and inflatables, live music, cooking demonstrations/talks, a chilli eating competition, a chilli sauce competition and the Man v Food challenge. There is plenty to eat and drink with authentic food stalls and dedicated bars from the likes of the New Forest Downton Brewery and Dorset’s only inflatable pub from ‘Appetite for Adventure.’ When? 9th - 10th June 10am - 5pm Where? Christchurch
Poole Goes Vintage Celebrate all things retro with a 1940’s-50’s theme at this feel-good festival the whole family will enjoy. Vintage music flowing all day as well as dancing, vintage car displays, a vintage
market and more. When? 15th July Where? Poole Quay
Swanage Goes Safari – Carnival week With over 100 fun filled events over 8 days including the spectacular Safari themed carnival procession, massive firework displays, live music, children’s entertainment and much more, make sure you and your family take part and enjoy all the fun in the sun at this year’s Swanage Carnival. When? July 28th - August 4th 7am - 11pm Where? Swanage, Shore Road
Bournemouth Air Festival The UK’s biggest air festival, 4-days of action and entertainment in the air, on land and at sea! Award-winning and internationally renowned, the Bournemouth Air Festival has entertained more than 8.5 million people since 2008. When the sun goes down, Night Air entertainment will light up the skies with pyrotechnic night flying, street entertainment, live music and military performances. When? 30th August - 2nd September 10am - 10pm Where? Bournemouth Seafront
To keep up to date with what’s on in Dorset go to:
www.EventsDorset.com
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Community News
Swanage Painting Club Annual exhibition of paintings and cards for sale Saturday 28th July to Sunday 5th August 2018 10.00am - 5.00pm The Catholic Hall, Rempstone Road, Swanage, BH19 1AH Coffee and Cakes available on both Saturdays. Free Entry. For more information, contact Jane Wilby email: jwilby1111@gmail.com or tel: 01929 427078 New members always welcome.
WIPED
MINOR
REACH OUT … in Purbeck It’s a shocking statistic that one million older people go for a month without speaking to anyone, and half of all older people consider the television as their main form of company. Age UK Dorchester offers a FREE ‘Reach Out’ service, which provides volunteers for older people who have become lonely and isolated, and which can occur for a variety of reasons such as bereavement, ill health, or loss of confidence. Volunteers play a key role in helping to re-establish social contacts, either by accompanying them to a local activity, or visiting them for a cup of tea and a chat. They can help people to find out about activities, groups and clubs in their area and to go along with them until they feel confident enough to do things by themselves. If you are feeling lonely, and would like a volunteer to help you to re-establish social interaction, and you would like to know more about the ‘Reach Out’ service in the Purbeck area, please contact: Jules Walker on 07342 883 844 j.walker@ageukdorchester.org.uk
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Why make a Lasting Power of Attorney The possibility of losing mental capacity can be a distressing thought and is often seen as something that does not need to be considered until the future. However, it needs to be arranged whilst still having capacity and is best made sooner rather than later. Capacity could potentially be lost at any time, such as through an accident, a stroke or a degenerative condition such as Alzheimer’s and with growing reports of 18-45year olds suffering from mental health problems it can happen to people of any age. If capacity is lost and there is no LPA in place, any family or friends will have to apply to the Court of Protection for a Deputyship to make decisions on the donor’s behalf. This is a lengthier process, costs much more than registering an LPA and will incur ongoing costs which an LPA does not. It can never be certain that the Court of Protection will approve an application and
they are particularly reluctant to approve a Deputyship for a person’s health and welfare. By using an LPA the donor can choose who will make decisions for them and how these decisions may be made. This control is lost if a Deputy must be appointed after capacity is lost. Problems can be created where one member of a couple loses capacity. If the majority of the couple’s assets are held in joint names and one loses capacity, the other will not be able to access the joint accounts or deal with jointly owned property without applying to the Court of Protection. Similarly, if assets are mostly in the name of one partner who loses capacity, it could potentially leave the other unable to access any assets or be unable to maintain the home. For a full explanation of the benefit of Lasting Power of Attorney’s speak to your local regulated experts Dorset Wills. See below.
Do you want to protect your family and loved ones? Probably the most important documents you will ever own. Wills & Power of Attorneys - £119.99 each
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Book your FREE home visit now on 01202 065953 Kingsland House, 514 Wimborne Road East, Ferndown, Dorset, BH22 9NG
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Puzzle Corner
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Pop the kettle on... 6
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Across 1 Water closet (8) 5 Set up (6) 9 Pull out (8) 10 A metamorphic rock (6) 12 Enumerating (9) 13 Fence openings (5) 14 Sinewy (4) 16 Support or vote for (7) 19 Caustic (7) 21 A vaulted recess on a building (4) 24 A language of India (5) 25 Indescribably (9) 27 A style of sleeve (6) 28 Turnip cabbage (8) 29 Acquired deservedly (6) 30 Head restraint (8) Down 1 Lament (6) 2 Rag (6) 3 Diameters (5) 4 Not transparency (7) 6 Rebels (9)
Crossword
7 Dampness (8) 8 Calamity (8) 11 Look amorously (4) 15 Overlap (9) 17 A stand to hold wood that is being sawn (8)
18 Adolescent (8) 20 Potato crisp (4) 21 Windflower (7) 22 Afire (6) 23 One who uses a computer keyboard (6) 26 Placed in folders (5)
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Crash: Don’t Panic! If you are involved in a road traffic accident, it is natural to feel unsure of what to do. You may feel anxious about speaking to the other drivers involved. These pointers may help:-
You should also take photographs of the positions of the cars along with any damage, but again this should only be if it is appropriate in the circumstances.
If you are involved in an accident, it is a legal requirement that you stop. If it looks as though someone may be injured, or you are injured yourself, you should dial 999 and ask for the ambulance service.
If it is possible to do so, you should speak to the other driver or drivers involved and obtain their insurance details, along with their name, address and telephone number. You should enquire as to whether or not the car is theirs. If the car is owned by someone else, you should ask for their details too. You should also record the vehicle registration numbers and a description of all vehicles involved. This will assist should you need to make a claim either for damage to your vehicle or for a personal injury.
You should identify and obtain details of any eye witnesses to the accident, including their names, addresses and telephone numbers. Eye witnesses are crucial if there is an argument over who caused the accident.
If any driver involved does not have their insurance details to hand and the accident is not serious enough for the Police to need to attend, the accident must be reported to the Police within 24 hours, either directly to a Police Constable or by attending a Police Station.
If you have been injured and wish to make a claim, please call Battens Personal Injury Department, ideally armed with all the information referred to above, on 0800 6528411. We will be very happy to assist you.
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Erin Darling-Finan, You should report Litigation Assistant any accident to your insurer as soon as possible (preferably the same day) in case either you need to make a claim for vehicle damage or personal injuries you have suffered or if another driver involved makes a claim against you.
Specialist Legal Advice and Solutions for whatever life brings - at home or at work Address: 12 West Street, Wareham, BH20 4JX Tel: 01929 768720 Email: enquiries@battens.co.uk Web: www.battens.co.uk/wareham Please mention The Swanage Oracle when responding to adverts
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Celebrity Interview
Celebrity Interview:
Stanley Baxter By Tim Saunders
I remember Stanley Baxter from the 1980s ITV children’s programme Mr Majeika, the flying teacher. He is now 91 years old and retired from comedy a number of years ago. However, his radio plays are still aired on BBC Radio 4. “If you care, it puts great stress on you, and that’s why I retired in the end,” he told The Scotsman in 2008. “It was becoming more stressful than fun, and when that happens it’s time you jacked it in. There are people who have got no nerves at all, and they’re no’ very good. I remember Dickie Henderson once being asked, ‘Are all comedians psychopaths?’ And he said. ‘No, no, not true. Only the good ones.’” In 1997, he was honoured with a lifetime achievement award at the British Comedy Awards. “All this rubbish about the man behind the mask,” he added. “I’ve had it again and again and again. The mask is what’s important. Everything else is not so important. The mask is the talent. That’s the work. Otherwise you’re just a bit… Boring.” He credits his mother with pushing him to succeed. “As with most artists, mother was the dominant figure,” he says. “I did love her, until I realised she wasn’t the ideal influence on my life. She wasn’t terribly good at letting me go, and I wanted to go. Emotionally, I think I was more like my father. He was quite the reverse, a very shy man, and I have too much of my father to really have enjoyed my life as an entertainer. There was quite a lot of that withdrawal thing. “It was only when I married myself that I began to see it from his point of view, what kind of awful life the man had. He not only didn’t share a bedroom, which was understandable, but he went to the other end of the house. If you ever had to sleep with my mother, God help you. If my father went through that all his married life, God help him. God help him.” At an early age he got depressed. “When I was depressed, the things that cheered me were all to do with show business. The Hollywood movies were so interesting to me, which was obvious from my work and the stuff I did for LWT.”
This award winning Scottish comedian and impressionist was born in 1926 and is probably best known for his hugely popular Stanley Baxter Show. He started his career at BBC Scotland as a child actor. In a lengthy career he has worked with some celebrated colleagues in a wide range of productions in radio, theatre, television and films. He has also written several books based on Glasgow. The son of an insurance manager, Baxter was born in Glasgow, Scotland. He was educated at Hillhead High School, Glasgow, and schooled for the stage by his mother. He began his career as a child actor in the Scottish edition of the BBC’s Children’s Hour. He developed his performing skills further during his national service with the Combined Services Entertainment unit, working alongside comedy actor Kenneth Williams, film director John Schlesinger and dramatist Peter Nichols, who used the experience as the basis for his play Privates on Parade. After the war Baxter returned to Glasgow taking to the stage for three years at Glasgow’s Citizens’ Theatre. Following success on the radio with Jimmy Logan, Howard & Wyndham Ltd invited him to star in pantomime at the Theatre Royal in Glasgow followed by the Half Past Eight Shows, and their successors the Five Past Eight Shows at Glasgow’s Alhambra Theatre. He moved to London to work in television in 1959.. Tim Saunders is an author, journalist and businessman. He meets celebrities, goes on holiday and road tests cars.
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Contacting Dorset Police Online at dorset.police.uk/ do-it-online
Do it Online allows you to make general enquiries, report nonurgent crime and incidents online, request a call back and leave a message for an officer. It is a quicker and easier alternative to calling 101 and offers you the flexibility to make a report at your own
convenience.
AskNED dorset.police.uk/ askNED
Telephone 101 or 999
Dorset Alert
AskNED is a Non-Emergency Directory offering advice and information on a whole host of topics that are often reported, along with contact details of those that can help. It could answer your enquiry without you needing to call 101.
If you wish to speak to an operator our 101 non-emergency service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Please be aware that during peak hours of 8am and 10am, and 3pm and 7pm, there may be a delay in answering. Calls are assessed and prioritised based on the circumstances and urgency of the call. If a crime is in progress or life in danger always dial 999.
Dorset Alert is a two way community messaging system operated by Dorset Police, which allows us to exchange information with you by email or phone at no cost to you. You will not be notified about every crime or incident that happens in your neighbourhood, just those we believe would help keep you safe. Join at www. dorsetalert.co.uk
To contact your local Neighbourhood Policing Team please go online or email purbecksouth-npt@dorset.pnn.police.uk
CONTACT DORSET POLICE NEW.indd 1
08/02/2018 15:19:54
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Adventures of Nellie
22
The Adventures of Nellie The Purbeck Publications Camper Van A Murder Mystery Dinner! Catch the killer, what next? After a murder mystery walk not long ago, you would think that Nellie had had enough of all that taxing of the brain cells to work out “who did it?”. Well, it seems not. The Rotary Club cordially invited her to take us to The Kings Hotel in Christchurch for an evening of food, drink, entertainment and clue finding. The scene was set… “Some strange things had been happening to the Rotary Choir. Sue Prano walks with a limp, Barry Tone is still rubbing in the cream and Ivor Rees now has to wear a wig. The choir master Ivor Baton thought the choir were not ready for their first performance so he called
A life-like wig and true acting
It was a dark and stormy night... an extra rehearsal. Scandalously at 8pm Ivor Baton’s body was found in the backstage office, but no murder weapon was found. His body revealed that he had eaten a piece of cake just prior to his death and that traces of poison were found. Death would have been instantaneous”. So, what happened, who did it and why? Those were the all-important questions to catch the culprit and bring him (or was it her?) to true justice. Nellie was not at all sure how this would play out. She was kind of expecting a whole play around the dinner with complicated and confusion actions, so she was a bit nervous to say the least. Stephen was chosen as a suspect and given a sheet of paper with statements on it. There were 6 suspects in all. After our starter which was really rather tasty, the first suspect was put to the test. The ‘audience’ were given numbered questions and each suspect had to
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23 answer these questions using the statements on the sheet provided. The ‘suspects’ were all members of the rotary, or friends. Each was a budding actor it appeared, and Nellie was rather impressed by their eloquent responses, carefully mimicking the tone and style of the actor they were performing. We were in awe. Stephen’s turn came and as his sheet mentioned a wig, he quickly borrowed a lady’s fluffy scarf and plopped it on his head. He did look rather silly but it all added to the fun. We had two clues to go on… 1. there was one broken desk clock that had stopped at 7.50pm and 2. there was one piece of cake icing in the backstage office where Ivor Baton was shockingly found. We, in the audience had ten questions for each suspect and it was our job to decipher who told a lie and thus catch the murderer out. Several members of the audience took this all very seriously and wrote down the questions as well as the answers in detail, solemnly discussing their thoughts with the person next to them. This was an alarming find and the wrongdoer had to be caught! It was a great, amusing and entertaining evening in fact. Between
Serious detectives at work each course there were a couple of suspects put to the rigorous test of our searching questions. Lucy Lastic was a clear favourite… but did she do it? Maybe you could contact Graham at “Catch the Killer” on 01425 478444 and have a meal yourself with a few friends to see who you think “did it?” He can also be contacted by email graham@catchthekiller.co.uk. Stephen, as well as all the suspects, got a very thankful certificate for his Oscar performance. He graciously took a bow to a roar of an applause. I am not sure he has been contacted however for any more roles, the phone has been very quiet… time will tell. Nellie wants to thank the Rotary team for all their hard work. These groups work so hard to help others. Their purpose is “to organise events to bring people together through activities and projects to enrich the lives of others and generate community spirit.” What a great purpose! They are often looking for new members as well as sponsorship so please contact your area team to offer them any help you can give. Where on earth will Nellie take us next?
The suspects all line up to hear the verdict
By Debbie Corney
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24
Food & Drink
Tastes so good... Spanish Baked Eggs
A taste from the Costas – ideal served as lunch with a fresh green salad, and eaten al fresco (if the British Summer weather allows!) A perfect holiday reminder that’s quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients for 4 servings 4 x large free range eggs 100g sliced chorizo 1 onion finely sliced 1 red/yellow pepper sliced 2 crushed garlic cloves ½ tsp paprika 400g can chopped tomatoes 2 tbsp. olive oil Chopped parsley
1. Pre-heat oven to 200c/Fan180C/400F/Gas Mark 6 2. In a heated pan, add olive oil and lightly cook the chorizo and onion for about 4 minutes until soft. Add the pepper and cook. 3. Stir in the paprika and garlic and cook for about a minute before adding the tomatoes to the pan. Simmer until all ingredients are soft. 4. Pour into an ovenproof dish, make four wells and carefully crack the eggs over the mixture into each well, cover with foil and bake in pre-heated oven for approx. 10 minutes or until the eggs are just set but the yolks should still be runny.
Serve with: Green Salad Crusty/toasted bread
5. Optional – you can add some parsley to top the baked mixture Serve with a fresh green salad of your choice with crusty or toasted bread, and enjoy. Try varying the ingredients for new tastes, for example with extra peppers, sliced potato or even baked beans.
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The Swanage Oracle
W P R Q M K U G T Y S E B J W
E D N B O N C M G A T C L R O
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D W B P I F H A J L H D S J H
R Y B F S U Y N S O W L O V V
E L I P D D I R J H X A M K Z
S Y R S A B S X V K N R L Z G
S D L Y N B H L M N Q O O Y U
I A Q W C J J V S A A L G P D
N J Z Q E K Q L V B E F K K T
G I G G R M G A R L A N D U F
Prize Wordsearch
Prize Wordsearch
D T R L S I O X T H Z M O P O
Q E L L N E E U Q Y A M W K U
M A Y P O L E G Z P O M J R O
MORRIS DANCERS FLORAL DANCE MAYDAY MAY QUEEN WELL DRESSING GARLAND MAYPOLE BLOSSOM RIBBON BANK HOLIDAY
This month, the prize is a meal for two at the Bull & Boat in Swanage, so please complete this page by 30th May 2018 and send to: May Prize Wordsearch Name: ______________________ The Swanage Oracle, Address: ______________________ 1 Moorlands Rise, ______________________ West Moors, ______________________ Ferndown, BH22 0JR Telephone: ______________________
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Gardening Tips
26
a beginner’s
GUIDE Pest Control
Even the best kept garden will be teeming with critters all conspiring to sabotage your growing efforts and you could spend a lot on named chemicals to combat various problems but it may be worth having a go with more environmentally friendly remedies first. For instance, the cabbage-white butterfly, as its name suggests will home in on your cabbages and other brassicas, lay its eggs and, two weeks later, a mass of caterpillars will be eating holes in the leaves. Pick them off by hand, inspecting the plants carefully every day or two and try spraying them with salty water to deter them. To combat greenfly, try crushing a clove of garlic in warm water, leave for about 6 hours, strain into a hand spray and spray over the plants. It’s very effective. If you find aphids on your rose buds, a disgusting but effective treatment is to rub them out with your fingers. Cats can be deterred with oldfashioned moth balls although the effects don’t
last very long. After a wet night a local cat had buried all of ours! Of all the pests that will drive you up the wall, slugs and snails are at the top of the list, particularly when you have young seedlings or are growing hostas or sunflowers. For plants in pots, Vaseline or grease smeared round the pot can help, as can copper strips which cause electro-chemical shocks. Otherwise, try sharp mulches around the plants that need protection, such as sharp gravel, crushed eggshells or broken seashells. Some say hair clippings work (see your local hairdresser) and caffeine is supposed to be lethal to molluscs so try coffee grounds. Half fill a dish with beer (I don’t think they are particularly fussy about the brand!) and sink it in the ground to attract the slugs which fall in and drown. Of course, nothing really beats a size 10 boot and a thorough search of the garden with a torch in hand on a damp night might pay dividends. Happy hunting!
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27
Introducing... Brenscombe Outdoor Centre Did you know that we have a market leading outdoor centre right here in Purbeck? Brenscombe Outdoor Centre has been open for over 25 years and welcomes groups from all over the world! The setting is perfect: Guests at the centre enjoy activities all around Purbeck from the centre’s base on the west side of Poole harbour, to the huge tree-based ropes course in the woods at Burnbake, cliff climbing on the coast, or lake-based activities on a private gravel pit near Wareham. We caught up with some of the team as they were getting ready for their school holiday ‘day camp’ children to arrive and had a chat to Tom, one of the centre’s lead instructors. We asked him how the day camps work? “It’s simple really, children are booked into the camps; online, by phone,
or by calling into the office. They can be dropped off at the centre Monday to Friday on school holidays to take part in a full day of activities. We don’t fix the program that way we can take advantage of the weather and tide. This means that we can have mega days with the groups doing things like archery, orienteering, low-ropes, highropes, climbing, canoeing, big-canoeing, hiking, team-games, the list goes on……. Not all activities happen every day, making each day different.” If you would like more information on Brenscombe Outdoor Centre drop into the office or take a look at the website: www.brenscombeoutdoor.co.uk
BRENSCOMBE OUTDOOR CENTRE
e r u t n e ps v m a d C A Day
Studland Road, Corfe Castle, BH20 5JG Tel 01929 481 222
Experience a variety of fun and exciting activities such as: climbing canoeing
raft building bushcraft wide games ropes course team tasks target sports big canoeing and much much more...
£3 8 Just day or per y 5 da / 0 7 £1 week
Available school holidays 8.30am to 5pm, for ages 8 - 14 yrs Book your space now! www.brenscombeoutdoor.co.uk/daycamps
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Community News
28
Prosecco : A Joy Of Life There are many producers of sparkling, aromatic, prosecco wine. For this quest I searched for a company that produces a range of high-quality prosecco wines, with impressive bottle presentations. Bottega has a very interesting history, both during the 20th century and into the 21st century. The eye-catching bottles and a great number of the wines are awardwinning. The bottles are created by artisan crafts people and are really distinguishable. From their prosecco range I found the following to be very impressive.
Bottega Poeti Prosecco (DOC) is fresh, fragrant and has a floral bouquet. This wine is a very popular, dry production and favoured by many. Bottega Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore (DOCG) Extra Dry is another poets’ wine which is also very popular. Having a brilliant straw-yellow colour, too, this fresh and fragrant wine graces many dining occasions, regularly. Bottega Prosecco (DOC) Biologico Extra Dry is often chosen and has many devotees. This organic production is, again, a brilliant straw-yellow colour. Very fine, fresh, fruity and delicate is how I would describe this, much sought-after, prosecco. Bottega Prosecco (DOC) Fundum I found to be a splendid dry production, that has plenty of fruits, to please. The mouthfeel and palate sensation is fresh, with a good finish. Gold Poeti Prosecco (DOC) is a further very classy production from Bottega. Fresh, aromatic and very impressive, this wine comes in a magnificent gold-coloured bottle. Again, a fruity bouquet prevails, which leads, enticingly, to the wonderful mouthfeel. The palate is treated to a sensation that is impressively pleasant and memorable. The glamour of the bottle presentation adds to the pleasures of this production, which is extremely popular for special occasions and also makes a really wonderful gift. Prosecco wines, having a persistent and fine perlage, are perfect for apÊritifs and excellent to pair with starters, also fish, seafood and white meats. Prosecco and other wines, including grappa, plus liqueurs, along with a range of other products, are all made with much knowledge, love and devotion, so the finished Bottega productions are of the highest quality and quite exceptional. www.bottegaspa.com As always, Enjoy!
Trevor Langley To advertise in The Swanage Oracle, please call: 01929 408080
29
Fixed quote work
Loft conversions / Cut and truss roofing
1 & 2 fix carpentry / Kitchens fitted
Dormer and Velux windows Laminate flooring Replacement fascias & guttering General repair work
Call Peter Albin
Mobile 07834 983022 Home 01929 425048
www.totalwoodwork.co.uk
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30
Index of advertisers
Your quick guide to everyone and everything in your Oracle... Accountants Ward Goodman......................................................... 11
Holiday Accommodation Upton Grange Holiday Cottages................................. 5
Bars, Pubs & Restaurants Bull & Boat................................................................ 29
Kitchens Competitive Construction........................................... 7
Blinds, Curtains & Shutters Ashley Blinds............................................................... 3
Outdoor Activities Brenscombe Outdoor Centre..................................... 27
Builders Competitive Construction........................................... 7 Purbeck Home Improvements.................................... 1
Oven Cleaners Ovenking.................................................................... 9
Carpenters Total Woodwork - Peter Albin.................................... 29 Community News Adventures of Nellie.................................................. 22 Beginner’s Guide: Pest Control.................................. 26 Celebrity Interview: Stanley Baxter............................ 20 Contacting Dorset Police........................................... 21 District Council objects to Ferry price increases.......... 8 Dorset Wildlife Trust: Spend 30 days wild................. 12 Prosecco: A Joy of Life................................................ 28 Reach Out in Purbeck................................................ 16 Swanage Painting Club Exhibition............................. 16 Tastes so good: Spanish baked eggs.......................... 24 There will be Sunflowers in Swanage this year!......... 6 What’s On in Dorset.................................................. 14 Computer Services AJV Computing.......................................................... 13 Drainage Services All Drains Cleared....................................................... 3 Financial Services Ward Goodman......................................................... 11 Funeral Directors James Smith................................................................ 7 Garden Buildings Stable Structures........................................................ 2 Hairdressers Philip Mills Hair Design.............................................. 32 Health & Wellbeing West Dorset Mobile Foot Clinic.................................. 5
Pest Control Terminator Pest......................................................... 29 Plumbers CM Plumbing & Heating............................................. 9 FXR Heating & Plumbing............................................ 3 Gasways Heating....................................................... 31 Heatcare.................................................................... 13 Property Maintenance Competitive Construction........................................... 7 Purbeck Home Improvements.................................... 1 Total Woodwork - Peter Albin.................................... 29 Puzzles & Competitions Crossword.................................................................. 18 Kids Page................................................................... 10 Prize Wordsearch....................................................... 25 Step On It................................................................... 16 Sudoku....................................................................... 18 Removals & Storage Bournemouth Removals............................................. 5 Purbeck Self Storage.................................................. 13 Solicitors Battens...................................................................... 19 Waste Services Philip Trim................................................................... 2 The Waste Group........................................................ 9 Will Writing Services Dorset Wills............................................................... 17 Windows, Doors & Conservatories Competitive Construction........................................... 7 Custom Roof Lights.................................................... 31
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31
Let the light in... High Quality Economical Rooflights & Skylights 10% off discount with this advert Prices starting from £250! Example price 600mmx600mm with Free Kerb £250
Self Cleaning • Triple Glazed • U Value of 0.83 • 100% Waterproof • Over 30 Sizes Available
Call us on
www.customrooflights.co.uk
01202 802111
Gasways Heating 367 High Street, Swanage, BH19 2NP ALL HEATING SERVICES INCLUDING: • • • • •
Boilers Installed Full Central Heating Systems Boiler Maintenance and Breakdowns Domestic and Commercial All LPG work undertaken
ALSO ALL GENERAL PLUMBING
T: 01929 427713 M: 07889 409584 www.gaswaysheating.co.uk
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Philip and Lyn would like to congratulate Megan Ward in completing her NVQ level 3! Megan is now taking appointments and offering a 20% discount for May and June. At Philip Mills, our top priority is education. Our team regularly go on courses to London studios to keep up with the very latest fashions and techniques. We also have in-salon training nights every Thursday from 2.45pm to 7pm. If you want a great haircut or colour on training night, book in NOW as cuts are from £12.50 and colours are from £22.50 - and training is fully supervised. We train our team to work with face shape, skin tone and eye colouring, which gives a greater understandingcin designing hair for the individual. This enables us to practise newctechniquies and keep our team focused on providing an excellent service.
THURSDAY IS SUPERVISED TRAINING NIGHT! Book NOW for cuts and colours from 2.45pm to 7pm, every Thursday. Cuts from £12.50, Colours from £22.50
The Swanage Oracle
1 Moorlands Rise, West Moors, Ferndown, Dorset, BH22 0JR