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Moving house is always disruptive. Even months after the move, there are usually still boxes to unpack and DIY projects to sort out. We moved at the end of July, and I still have a long list of Important Things To Do.
What was at the top of my wife’s list after we moved? Get new pets, of course.
Just what we needed after spending most of our savings on moving: more mouths to feed.
We contacted Mandy’s Guinea Pig Rescue and adopted a pair of three-year-old boys (practically middle-aged for guinea pigs). They were very calm around the children, and I had to admit they were quite cute.
My daughter named the ginger-and-white boar Sunflower. Perfect name, no notes. What did my son call the guinea pig covered head to tail in black fur? Milk. That’s toddler logic for you.
Sadly, Milk is no longer with us. After having him in our family for only two months, we noticed he had stopped eating his food. A vet told us he had a painful condition causing his teeth to grow over his tongue, preventing him from eating. Surgery would have been invasive and distressing for him, and the kindest thing to do was to put him to sleep.
We couldn’t leave Sunflower on his own (guinea pigs are highly sociable and must live in pairs or groups). After some frantic searching, Miss Honey’s Guinea Pig Rescue in Ringwood let us adopt a tiny eightweek-old. Sunflower was very happy to meet his new roommate, Spotty.
We have a jam-packed issue this month. Check out pages 36-38 for all you need to know about fun Christmas events coming up in your area. Enjoy!
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LOGISTICS
Mike Talbot
Nigel Farage’s Reform UK has gained its first two councillors in the area after a defection by two members of Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole (BCP) Council.
On 7 October, Cllr Duane Farr and Cllr Cameron Adams, who represent the Kinson ward, announced they had switched from the Conservatives to Reform.
In a joint statement, they said: “We have made the decision that the Conservative Party is no longer our home. It is becoming increasingly clear that the country needs drastic change, and we believe only Reform UK can deliver this — from cutting public sector waste, to controlling our borders, to fixing our declining towns.
“Locally, our focus remains unchanged. We will continue to support efforts to stop the imposition of costly town councils against the will of the public, and we will work with any councillors who share this aim.
“We will continue to hold the Liberal Democrats to account not just for their mismanagement of the council, but their responsibility for the decline of our towns. And we will continue to stand up for our residents, who time and again are let down by the council, whether it be the lack of priority given to basic services, the frivolous wasting of their Council Tax or the repeated ignoring of their views.”
By Luke Graham
In October, BCP Council reported that the town has had a successful summer after people made more than 10 million trips to the town centre across June, July and August, adding that the number of returning visitors to the town has more than doubled.
The council added that several new businesses have opened in the town centre in recent months, including Barbara’s Bier Haus, The Botanist, Wenzel’s and Sport It First, and said that this is evidence that “positive progress” is materialising.
But when we posted this story on social media, the response by readers was divided. Many challenged BCP Council’s perspective, and complained about issues including empty shops, litter, and levels of crime including drug use.
The issue of crime in Bournemouth has repeatedly come up this year. In its headlines, the Daily Mail labelled the area the “most dangerous” town in the UK.
But that label doesn’t match with statistics. Independently measured stats show crime in Bournemouth is down year on year and, as a county, Dorset remains in the top 10 safest places to live. Anti-social behaviour in Dorset is at its lowest level for 18 years, according to Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick.
There is a saying that facts don’t care about your feelings. Well, neither do feelings always care about facts. The facts may show that crime is down, but people do not feel safe in the area (see Correspondence on page 51). Clearly, BCP Council must do more if it wants to convince residents that Bournemouth is truly turning a corner.
A Broadstone care home teamed up with local Guides to mark International Repair Day on Saturday 18 October.
Residents at The Potteries on York Road shared skills with the 4th Broadstone Guides and 1st Rangers to upcycle old shirts into new cushions.
Fredda Thickins, a resident at the home, took the lead in teaching the teenagers to use a sewing machine.
Resident Eileen Harvey said: “I enjoyed being able to turn an item that would have been thrown away into something useful. It is so important to upcycle items for the environment, and I
loved being able to pass on these skills to the children.”
Zita Turner, home manager said: “Residents have honed their DIY skills over a lifetime, and the Fixer Uppers’ project has been a fantastic way for them to connect with young people and share practical knowledge in a meaningful way.
“We’d like to thank the Broadstone Guides and Rangers for coming to the home to help create cushions. It was a brilliant afternoon, and we look forward to many more visits in the future.”
To find out more about Fixer Uppers, visit careuk.com/Fixer-Uppers.
by Harold G Walker Solicitors
By Harold G Walker Solicitors
Are you separating and have both reached an agreement or both want to reach an agreement together, without having two lawyers?
Resolution Together is a model for one family lawyer to act for you both. It is suitable for separating couples whose joint aim is to reach an outcome that meets both of their needs and, if they are parents, the needs of their children. They must be on the same page and willing to work together amicably.
Genette Gale, one of our family lawyers, is a trained Resolution Together solicitor. She would initially see the couple jointly for a brief appointment and after that meeting, either on the same day or another day, have individual meetings with each of the parties by themselves. The purpose of the individual meetings is to make sure Resolution Together is right for each person. After the initial meetings, at a later date, she would meet with the separating couple to discuss trying to resolve their finances and the arrangements for their children, if they have any.
Resolution Together involves trying to resolve matters at meetings, with Genette and the separating couple all present. While it is for the separating couple to decide what is right for them and their family, Genette will be there to give them information on the legal process which applies and what a court may think or take into consideration, with the aim of trying to help both reach an agreement. If an agreement is reached, it can be incorporated into a written agreement or court order, whichever is appropriate.
If a separating couple wish to engage in Resolution Together, they must both be willing to be open and honest about their financial situation with each other, and to cooperate with providing information, to enable them both to have the information they need to reach an agreement. Resolution Together is for separating couples who are amicable and willing to work together.
Law Spot is for information only and does not constitute legal advice
Members of an organised crime ring who stole more than £2m-worth of vehicles across Hampshire, Dorset and Wiltshire have been jailed.
The gang stole 107 vehicles — mainly high-end cars — between February and October in 2023.
Five members of the gang, all from Southampton, were sentenced at Southampton Crown Court on Thursday 9 October, following what the judge described as a “remarkable and thorough police investigation” by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary.
A further seven members of the gang, including Gary Kelly, 38, of Bransgore, Christchurch, William Martin, 24, of Broadstone, Dorset, and Matthew Watkins, 24, from Ringwood — are due to be sentenced at Southampton Crown Court on 21 November.
The cars were taken from driveways in the middle of the night while their owners were asleep, then stripped for parts at a ‘chop shop’. The gang used devices to trick keyless ignition vehicles into unlocking or used ‘signal jammers’ to prevent cars from being locked without the owner realising. The gang members would then return in the middle of the night to drive the unlocked cars away.
The Force are urging vehicle owners to invest in steering or wheel locks from companies which are approved by the official police security initiative Secured by Design. Visit the website: securedbydesign.com.
Communities across the region will be marking Remembrance with services and parades. Here are the details for some of these events
9 November 10.20am
In Poole, a parade will set off from the cricket pavilion at 10.20am to the War Memorial in Poole Park led by the Poole Sea Cadets Marching Band. The Poole Borough Band will also provide music for the Remembrance Sunday service, which takes place at 10.50am. Following the service, the parade will reform and march back to the cricket pavilion where it will be dismissed. Poole Park will be closed to vehicles between 7am–1pm. During this time, businesses in the park will remain open for access by foot only.
9 November 10.45am Service at the War Memorial at the Petwyn in West Moors.
9 November 10.55am
Bournemouth’s annual service of Remembrance
and parade will take place at the Cenotaph in the Central Gardens. The parade from Bournemouth Tennis Courts will be led by the Salvation Army and Bournemouth CCF Marching Bands. Braidley Road, Bourne Avenue and Avenue Road will be closed to vehicles from 9am until 1pm.
9 November 11am
Parade leaves St Michael and All Angels Church in Verwood and assembles at Ferrett Green War Memorial by 10.55am. National two-minute silence, followed by the laying of wreaths. Everyone is invited to join the mayor for tea or coffee in the Memorial Hall.
9 November 11am
A procession will leave from St Michael’s Church in Colehill at approximately 10.45am. Road closures surrounding the War Memorial will be in place between 10.30am–11.30am.
9 November 11.30am
A parade will gather in Ringwood Market Place and process to the War Memorial, where a short service will take place, followed by the formal Act of Remembrance at 12noon. There will be a wreath-laying ceremony and a procession back to Market Place.
9 November 2.30pm
A parade will depart from King George V Playing Fields in Ferndown and march to St Mary’s Church for a service beginning at 3pm.
9 November 2.40pm
A Remembrance Sunday parade starting at the Wimborne Royal British Legion will take place at this time, walking towards the Minster for a service at 3pm. Please be seated by 2.45pm. Wreath laying on the Minster Green after the service.
11 November 10.45am
A service will take place at the War Memorial Garden in Ringwood.
11 November 10.45am
Short service on the Minster Green in Wimborne.
11 November 10.50am
There will be a gathering at Ferrett Green War Memorial in Verwood, where the mayor and those present will observe a two-minute silence at 11am. The mayor will walk to the War Graves at St Michael & All Angels Church to lay a wreath.
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Two members of the Sexual Trauma & Recovery Service (STARS Dorset) took a leap of faith in September and skydived to raise money for the vital charity.
On Friday 5 September, Hannah Thorneycroft, community SEND consent engagement worker, and Natasha Evans, adult independent sexual violence advisor, completed a thrilling 10,000ft tandem skydive at Salisbury Airfield.
In the process, the pair raised £1,145 for the charity.
Recalling her skydive, Thorneycroft said: “I had my eyes closed the whole time and got handed a sick bag around 2,000ft on the way down, but I know the others said the views were amazing and they had a great time.”
Evans said she really enjoyed the skydive and would love to do one again.
The pair leapt from the plane alongside two of STARS Dorset’s trauma teddies, knitted comfort bears given to clients for emotional support during difficult times, often accompanying both children and adults to court.
STARS Dorset offers one-to-one support, free of charge, for anyone of any age or gender, who lives, works or studies in Dorset and has experienced any form of sexual assault at any time in their lives. To learn more about STARS Dorset, visit starsdorset.org.
Three local nature photographers had a close brush with the law after a camera tripod was thought to be a shotgun, leading to local police deploying half a dozen armed officers, shutting a road and sending out a helicopter to confront the ‘gunman’.
Early in the morning of Wednesday 1 October, Lee Cooper was due to meet fellow photographers in a woodland in Burley near the Picket Post junction, but one of the trio, Ryan Seymour, was late.
When Ryan arrived, he rushed into the woods to catch up with his friends, gripping his tripod underarm and briefly saying hello to a dogwalker.
Retelling the event, Lee said: “He pulled up, grabbed his tripod, put his gear on and ran into the woods. I think he ran past a lady with a dog. Obviously, she mistakenly thought it was a shotgun and called it in to the police as a firearm.”
Around an hour later, the third member of the group, Matt, had returned to the carpark, only to be stopped by several black-clad authorised firearms officers, who had shut the road and deployed a helicopter.
“Meanwhile, Ryan and I were in the woods, completely oblivious,” explained Lee. “We walked up the other side and,
in the sky, saw a helicopter. I thought ‘Oh interesting, I wonder what’s going on?’”
The police helicopter spotted the pair and began to hover above them.
“All of a sudden, it was just a house or two above our heads. That’s when I knew something was up.”
Lee then got a phone call from an unknown number. When he answered it, he was speaking to the head of the armed response team, who politely asked him and Ryan to come back to the car park.
“He said, ‘Hi Lee, just to inform you, everything is fine, but there are six armed police officers waiting for you at your vehicle. If you could please come back and approach slowly with no sudden movements, that would be great’.
“I turned to Ryan and said: ‘That helicopter there? That’s for us. Apparently, we have a shotgun!’”
It became clear that Matt had managed to explain the situation and informed the police his friends were still in the wood.
Fortunately, everyone was fine, and the police officers were able to see the lighter side of the situation.
Lee said: “They had a little laugh about it. Obviously, it was an expensive mistake: a helicopter, full road closures,
several units deployed.”
Both Ryan and Lee were dumbfounded at the situation, which they found “unbelievable”. So, will Ryan arrive on time in future?
“Oh, he’ll still be late,” said Lee. “But I don’t think he’ll dress up in a full camo hoodie and run into the woods with a tripod in his arms anytime soon!”
By David Sidwick | Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner
The topic of e-scooters sparks a lot of debate and concern among members of the public. The frustrations I know many of you feel about the irresponsible and illegal use of both electric scooters and electric bikes is the reason why I have consistently raised this issue since I came to office in 2021. Whether it’s the sudden appearance of these scooters zipping through pedestrian areas or the links to crime and anti-social behaviour, it’s clear you want to see robust enforcement — and I want you to know Dorset Police are treating this seriously. From day one, I’ve made it a priority to engage with the public, Dorset Police, and the relevant authorities to ensure your voices and concerns are heard. I’ve taken your concerns to the Force and to operators such as Beryl UK, which runs a bike and scooter hire scheme in the BCP area. I’ve challenged them directly on reports of dangerous riding and misuse of their vehicles, including underage users and instances where more than one person is on an e-scooter at a time, and pressed for stronger enforcement measures. This is because road safety is a key priority of my Police and Crime Plan.
I’ve backed Dorset Police as they take a robust approach to tackling the illegal use of e-scooters and e-bikes. Already this year, more than 50 e-scooters and 33 illegal e-bikes have been seized. Officers have also launched a targeted operation to deal with illegally modified bikes and scooters, making arrests, increasing patrols in anti-social behaviour hotspots, and crushing and recycling seized vehicles. Innovation is also playing a role in how we address this problem. The Force’s Innovation Board has invested in SmartTag forensic spray, which can help identify offenders and link vehicles to incidents. Partnering with Bournemouth University, Dorset Police are analysing data to build an evidence base that supports more tactical and effective enforcement going forward.
Let me be clear on the legal position. Unless you’re using a rental e-scooter as part of an authorised trial scheme, it is illegal to ride a privately owned e-scooter on public roads, pavements, cycle lanes, or in pedestrian zones. They can only be used on private land with the landowner’s permission. I strongly believe we need updated
legislation that is fit for purpose. What this legislation looks like remains to be seen. In my view, it should include mandatory number plates and insurance for all e-scooter users, minimum age limits, speed caps set by manufacturers, and potentially a basic competency test. I also believe that when it comes to hire schemes, there must be greater accountability, with visible number plates and real consequences for misuse. If companies fail to ensure their vehicles are used safely and legally, they should face penalties.
I know Dorset Police will continue to act decisively to tackle illegal and unsafe e-scooter use, seizing these vehicles and crushing them. And as Police and Crime Commissioner, I will continue to lobby for clearer and more robust legislation to deal with those who knowingly flout the law and put others at risk with their reckless behaviour.
Here’s a blast from the past. Three wooden animal statues that were on display in Poole from 1969 to 1997 are making a grand reappearance in the town.
Residents of Poole may remember this trio of play sculptures depicting a hippo, whale and turtle. Originally installed in the Dolphin Centre (formerly the Arndale Centre) in 1969, they were made by Peter Hand, a lecturer at
Bournemouth College of Art for 20 years from the mid-1960s, and were designed for children to climb, slide, and explore.
The trio were a cherished part of Poole’s public art and play spaces for decades, until they were taken off display in 1997. After being donated to Poole Museum in 2023, the animals have been carefully preserved during the museum’s redevelopment.
Now they are on display once more. The mahogany hippo, which needed to be lifted through a third-floor window, has been installed inside Poole Museum, while the other two sculptures are on show at Lighthouse Poole.
Cllr Andy Martin, portfolio holder for Customer, Communication and Culture at BCP Council, who own and operate Poole Museum, said: “These sculptures are more than just art — they’re part of Poole’s collective memory. We’re excited to see them back in the public eye, sparking joy and nostalgia for those
By Luke Graham
The Planet Wimborne Green Festival took place from 11–18 October. The weeklong festival aimed to raise awareness of ecofriendly practices and sustainable living with a series of events, talks, workshops, film screenings and activities.
Starting with an eco fair on the Minster Green, where community groups provided information (and free, freshly squeezed apple juice) to members of the public, the festival was officially opened by Paralympic
silver-medal-winning canoeist Jack Eyers, alongside Wimborne’s Deputy Mayor, Cllr Simon Wheeler, Town Crier Chris Brown, the Rev Canon Andrew Roland, and Planet Wimborne Chairperson Linda Bunting. Before cutting the ribbon, Eyers thanked the organisers for inviting him and stressed the importance of protecting Britain’s waterways.
Among the stalls at the eco fair was Project Planet Earth. Founded by swimmer Oly Rush, the group informed the public about plastic pollution on Dorset’s beaches and had a giant sculpture on display. Percy the Plesiosaur, made in 2023 by artist Glenn Martin, is created entirely from plastic rubbish collected from a beach in one afternoon.
who remember them, and inspiring curiosity in a new generation of fans.”
Following a £10 million redevelopment, Poole Museum was due to reopen in the autumn.
Do you have fond memories of these wooden animals? Email luke@dorsetview.co.uk with your stories.
To express your opinion or idea about the community send your letters to letters@dorsetview.co.uk
Re: Green light for new Aldi
I have been reading your article regarding the proposed Aldi store at Canford Bottom and read with dismay the outcome of the recent decision.
I was amazed that there was no evidence that those making the decision had visited the location — I should have thought that would have been mandatory!
The extra traffic and delivery lorries will bring a lot more noise to the local residents, as well as congestion, especially with the amount of traffic that occurs at the Canford Bottom roundabout at rush hour.
No one appears to have mentioned the lovely Gatekeepers Cottage which no doubt would be demolished, and who lives there? I would guess they would be well provided for, but Wimborne history would be forgotten. I was at the Friday market recently and spoke to the person manning the Woodland Trust stall, and he told me that in the south of England, we now only have 32 per cent of trees that we used to enjoy, and now with this new build, 87 trees will be chopped down! Is there no other site that could be used for this project that would prove more suitable in every way?
Gloria Coley
Wimborne
Ferndown Middle School
pupils were amongst 5,000 children from 49 schools across Dorset who took part in a week-long event to inspire them in a future career in computer programming.
Organised by Dorset Council, BCP Council and Barclays Digital Eagles, Dorset Coding Week was also supported by 30 local tech volunteers and 18 students from Weymouth College.
And this year, there was a special theme of internet safety.
Children in Years 5, 6 and 7 were tasked to create a quiz with questions that
would help teach their peers how to stay safe online.
Ferndown Middle School’s computing teacher and careers lead, Melody Morris, said: “By taking part in Coding Week, our students have explored important digital safety messages while developing problem-solving and programming skills.
“The enthusiasm and imagination shown by the students have been fantastic, and their finished projects highlight both their coding ability and understanding of responsible online behaviour.”
Restoration work is taking place at Sites of Special Scientific Interest in Verwood, Ferndown and Upton this autumn, aiming to safeguard some of the world’s rarest wildlife habitats while reducing the risk of wildfires to both nature and nearby communities.
The project, supported by funding from Natural England and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), will focus on restoring lowland heathland — an internationally rare ecosystem that supports endangered species such as the Nightjar, Woodlark, and all six of Britain’s native reptiles, including the elusive Smooth Snake.
The sites are Stephens Castle and Dewlands Common North in Verwood, Slop Bog and Parley Common in Ferndown, and Pine Clump in Upton.
Over time, invasive scrub and self-seeded coniferous trees have encroached on the heathland, threatening its biodiversity and increasing the risk of wildfires. The restoration will involve removing selected trees and invasive species such as Rhododendron to allow native heathland plants — especially heather — to thrive once again.
Rangers have also worked closely with Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service to develop wildfire response plans and ensure fire crews are familiar with the terrain.
Wimborne War on Waste has successfully managed a blister pack recycling scheme for the past two years – however, it relies solely on monetary donations to keep it going
People assume that the organisation makes money from the scheme, but in fact each box costs them £78.60 and they fill one a week.
A spokesperson said: “While the amount of blister packs recycled through us keeps growing, our donations do not.
“We’ve now reached a point where we (Wimborne War on Waste) have spent over £300 keeping it going for the last month. This is sadly not sustainable for our small organisation.
“It is wonderful that so many local folks are conscious about waste and make the effort to recycle their blister packs. A huge thank you to all that already donate but we cannot maintain this scheme without additional support.”
War on Waste is hoping that people dropping off blister packs will pop a donation into the pot provided. If any business would like to sponsor a box, they should contact wimbornewaronwaste@gmail.com.
Plans to build two new padel courts in Redcotts Playing Fields were discussed by Wimborne Minster Town Council’s Recreation Leisure and Buildings Committee on Tuesday 23 September. The idea was proposed by Philip Loose and Rob Butler from Wimborne Tennis Club in the hope of enhancing community sports.
Padel is one of the fastest-growing sports in Europe, with LTA Padel reporting that just over 400,000 people in the UK played the game at least once in 2024. The UK currently has 893 padel courts. However, noise issues were raised, as games of padel can reach up to 70 decibels — the same volume as a motorcycle or lawnmower — which would disturb residents and dogwalkers. There were also concerns about eliminating the current basketball court and the cost of setting the project up.
The committee deferred making a final decision.
by
Visitors to the Wimborne Minster Flower Festival were all of the same opinion – it was absolutely stunning.
Held on Friday 26 to Monday 29 September, it attracted over 2,000 visitors and raised more than £10,000 towards the cost of a proposed ramp and improved steps to make the historic Minster Church
readily accessible to everyone.
The festival was opened during the Preview Evening on the Thursday by the Lord Lieutenant of Dorset, Michael Dooley.
Entitled ‘The Delights of Dorset’, the festival was designed and organised by Christine Oliver who has expressed her gratitude for all the help and support she has received.
A total of 12 Dorset Flower Clubs took part, each having been given a title depicting a place or event in the county such as Durdle Door, Gold Hill, the Cheese Festival and of course the Jurassic Coast. The latter featured a 16-foot papier-mâché dinosaur called Demelza and her baby Dino.
The clubs were joined by the Minster’s own team of flower arrangers and some individuals.
There were over 60 tableaux and smaller arrangements filling every corner of the Minster with colour, taste and smells of the countryside. Visitors were greeted at the entrance by a lovely display depicting the
the various
By Jane Benson
As a community garden, we have an evergrowing group of wonderful volunteers who come along to share their time and energy to grow produce and flowers in the garden so that we can support the community of Wimborne. Not only that, so many of our volunteers are blessed with all sorts of skills which they enjoy sharing time and time again; I would like to share a couple of examples here.
The Allendale Centre holds a very popular monthly meal to give guests a little lift and a chance to enjoy each other’s company while eating a scrumptious meal. A team of ladies at the Wimborne Community Garden
decided to sow, grow and nurture a whole range of flowers that they then cut and arrange in small bunches, to adorn the tables and add to the joy of the whole event. These ladies come to the garden in their own time to do this and use their skills with flowers to great effect. A huge thank you to Amanda Burton, Janet Tompkins, Sally Young, Tricia Zimmerman and Pat Colclough. As the weather begins to turn, our all-important ‘cup of teatime’ will likely be held in the pavilion, but the problem with this is getting enough seating into a small space. But have no fear, the problem has been solved by the ever-
resourceful Roy Colclough. Armed with reclaimed pallet wood, he set to work and used his skills to make us bench seats to line the pavilion walls.
The skills amongst the garden team are brilliant — we even have our own unique fountain now, paid for so generously by the Ferndown Alliss Charity but designed and created by David Benson, yet another multi-talented member of the team. We are so very lucky.
These skills will be on show in December, when once again a lighted tunnel will be erected in the garden to lead children to Santa in his magical fireside snug. Watch this space for more details.
By Luke Graham and Ben Woodland
For most people, the ability to enjoy Dorset’s blue spaces – its lakes, rivers and coastline – is taken for granted. But for people with mental or physical disabilities, these areas are often inaccessible and out of reach. One man fighting to change that is Will Behenna. Wimborne-based Will was paralysed from the waist down as a teenager after breaking his back during a cycling accident. Despite his injury, he has spent his life on the water using kayaks and paddleboards and is now on a mission to make Dorset’s coastline accessible to everyone.
In October last year, he launched Inclusive Paddleboarding, which makes foam-based seats and kneeling supports that can be attached to paddleboards to match the needs of different people, enabling them to paddle independently. Will also teaches paddleboarding to those with physical or mental health challenges, helping people with a wide range of disabilities take to the water.
Then in January 2025, he launched The Beach Access Project, a national project aiming to help people with disabilities like
himself have a safer and more accessible route onto not just Dorset’s beaches, but the whole of Britain’s coastline.
Will came onto Your Voice | Dorset Podcast to tell us more about the project. He said: “It became really evident for me locally that I couldn’t get to the sea.
“That got me realising that it’s the same across the whole of the UK. Maybe I should do something about it?”
He added: “The starting point was to build up a body of evidence and to be able to use that to justify what people with disabilities think about accessing the beach and what it currently looks like so that we can start building the right beaches for people.”
As a result, Will launched the Beach Access Audit. He is encouraging people to visit their local beach or blue space and complete an audit form on their mobile phone, to document and record how accessible it is. The form takes about 15 minutes to complete and will be added to a map so others can see and read your audit.
To take part in the audit, head to the
beach and then visit beachaccessproject. co.uk/beach-access-audit/ on your phone or digital device. Click on the blue box and the audit form will open. Complete the form by answering the questions, ticking boxes and uploading photos, then submit your audit.
On the podcast, Will discussed his intention to reach out beyond Dorset and to take his project to the next level. He said: “I’ve made connections in Slovakia and the Czech Republic but we can drive it here.
“I’m at a time in my life where I really want to make a difference and this is a project that I think can have a real impact.”
To find out more about Will’s projects and stories, you can listen to the full, inspirational podcast by searching for Your Voice | Dorset Podcast on your preferred podcast provider or by visiting our Youtube channel: youtube. com/@dorset_view. You can also follow Will on Facebook and Instagram @inclusivepaddleboarding, or check his websites out: inclusivepaddleboarding. co.uk and beachaccessproject.co.uk.
Labour politician Tom Hayes was elected MP for Bournemouth East in last year’s general election. A year on, and he has been very active in the role, having held a debate in Parliament on the provision of playgrounds in local areas, called for reforms to protect leaseholders, launched a campaign to improve the quality of privately rented accommodation in Bournemouth, and helped BCP Council trial higher parking fines in the summer to try and deter dangerous parking.
During the summer recess from Parliament, Tom came on to Your Voice | Dorset Podcast in early August to talk about how his first year had gone. Originally from Salford in Greater Manchester, Tom grew up caring for two
disabled parents, which he explained is his reason for why he got into politics.
“That experience, of having to support the people you love most in the world from a very early age [and help them] navigate systems that continually let them down, burned into me that sense of injustice.
“I was very lucky. We had neighbours around us [who] would go the extra mile to help me out. I had teachers who let me stay beyond the school day to make sure I had somewhere warm and safe to do my homework. I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for the contributions they made.”
Prior to being selected as Labour candidate, Tom was a charity chief executive, ran mental health, domestic abuse
and homelessness services, and was a councillor for 10 years at Oxford City Council. Reflecting on that experience, he said: “My hands felt so tied behind my back, that I could do so little, but demand for our services was rising and rising all the time. The needs of the people I was representing was overwhelming, and yet time and again they were let down, just like my parents were. Again, I felt that sense of injustice on an epic scale.
“I thought, if I can do anything positively to improve people’s lives and make systems easier to navigate… I’ve got to step up.”
Tom went on to win the seat of Bournemouth East, which had been Conservative since its creation in 1974, with 40.8 per cent of the vote. He stressed the
importance of trying to deliver for the people of Bournemouth.
“The first year has been about becoming really rigorous with how we spend our time, because the next four years are going to fly by. We need to be able to show the people I represent that the trust and the faith they put in us, to elect Labour for the first time in Bournemouth, is being repaid.”
To get in touch with the MP or to learn more about his work, visit tomhayes.org.uk.
To listen to the full interview, search Your Voice | Dorset Podcast on your preferred podcast provider, or watch it on dorsetview.co.uk/podcast and youtube.com/@dorset_view. Make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more great interviews and videos.
By Plants Direct
As autumn moves into winter, there are plenty of jobs to complete, clearing the last of the autumn leaves from lawns, paths and borders, and composting if you can for next year’s mulch for your beds and borders.
Harvest and store the last of the fruit and vegetables by packing them away in boxes, wrapped in paper in a cool garage or shed.
Prune down all the finished perennials and border shrubs. Mulch with bark mulch to protect them from frost.
Roses can be pruned lightly and reduced by a third. Leave the final pruning until February or March.
Now is a great time to plant trees, fruit, and roses, either field grown (bareroot) or container grown. Native species of hedging, beech, hawthorn, hazel, blackthorn, privet and many tree varieties will now be available from your local nursery or
garden centres. Ask staff for planting instructions, preparation and after care. Earlier planting is best, so they are rooted and established for the spring. Planting of spring flowering bulbs, daffodils, hyacinths, crocus, tulips and many more can be carried out until end of November.
Plant in pots, baskets and containers for colour on your patios and driveways. Naturalise bulbs in clumps of three, five or seven, randomly spaced for best effect. Plant 20 per cent lower than normal if they are to be left year after year.
Looking forward to next year, make a note of what you have successfully grown this year and try new seeds and plant varieties for the spring season ahead.
As Christmas approaches, check in your local nursery or garden centre for potted trees and great Christmas ideas and gift cards.
The flu vaccine helps protect against flu, which can be a serious or life-threatening illness. It’s offered on the NHS every year in autumn or early winter to people at higher risk of getting seriously ill from the condition.
Protection from the flu vaccine goes down over time, and the types of flu virus the vaccine protects against are updated each year. This is why it’s important to get your flu jab every year.
The jab is available for free to people over the age of 65, those who are
pregnant, and to carers.
If you have certain health conditions, such as asthma, COPD, or heart problems, then you may also be eligible for a free flu vaccine.
Get your jab from your GP surgery, local pharmacy, care home or maternity service (if you’re pregnant). You can have the flu jab at the same time as other vaccines, such as Covid-19 and shingles vaccinations.
Once injected, the vaccine can take up to 14 days to work. For more information, visit nhs. uk/vaccinations/flu-vaccine.
Apart from repeatedly being told about the dangers of excessive heat, we seem to get through the summer without too many health warnings.
However, with the first frost, we are bombarded with guidance about how we can guard against failing health. So here are 10 tips from Healthwatch to add to that advice.
Get your flu jabs and Covid booster — if you are eligible. See article above.
Wrap up with lots of layers of thin clothes.
Keep doors closed to block draughts.
Try to heat rooms you regularly use to at least 18 degrees C.
Keep moving. Move around indoors and get out for a walk if you are able. Avoid sitting for more than one hour.
Wear layers to bed,
Poole care home resident Kathleen received an astonishing 420 cards for her 100th birthday on Saturday 30 August.
Kathleen served with the Women’s Royal Naval Service (Wrens) during the Second World War and now lives at Elizabeth House on Dolbery Road. She received cards from as far away as Canada, Hong Kong and Australia.
The care home team at Elizabeth House, which is part of Care South, organised the cards as a special surprise for Kathleen in honour of her military service. They
had hoped the community would send 100 birthday cards but ended up receiving four times as many.
Kathleen joined the Wrens at the age of 18 in June 1944 and was given the role of bomb range marker, which involved monitoring targets.
On her birthday, she was joined by her family and friends, and received a visit from John Morrish, an officer from the Royal Navy. Dressed in full military uniform, he presented Kathleen with a letter on behalf of the First Sea Lord and Chief of Naval Staff in recognition of her service in the Wrens.
including socks, and keep your windows closed at night.
Use a hot water bottle or an electric blanket (but not together). Also, did you know your hot water bottle should be replaced every two to three years? The rubber deteriorates over time, increasing the risk of leaks or bursts that can cause serious burns. The date is usually found on the neck of the bottle.
Eat a balanced diet with lots of seasonal fruit and vegetables. Try to eat at least one hot meal a day.
Hot drinks can help you keep warm.
Make sure you have the right medicines at home in case you become unwell.
Protect yourself and others by washing your hands with warm, soapy water and cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.
Carers in Dorset are facing increased stress and challenges in supporting loved ones at home. However, there is a service called NHS Hospital at Home, and a report from health and social care champion Healthwatch Dorset found that 83 per cent of carers rated it as very good, with none rating it as poor.
Carers reported that patients benefitted from faster care, more comfort, and reduced risk of infection compared to hospital stays, while 89 per cent of carers said they were kept fully informed about treatment and knew where to access further support.
Many carers described emotional stress, disrupted sleep, financial pressure, and a lack of aftercare. Some felt more joined-up services and
clearer communication would improve their experience.
One mother described how her child could keep attending school thanks to Hospital at Home, reducing disruption for the whole family. Another carer, herself a health professional, said how quickly her father received care and pain relief, which would have taken longer in hospital.
Louise Bate, Healthwatch Dorset manager, said: “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who shared their personal experiences with us — carers, patients and staff — that gave us valuable insights of the service. We will be sharing our findings with the Dorset Hospital at Home Steering Committee and leading consultants to help their development of better services in the community.”
The Friends of Victoria Hospital Wimborne held their AGM in mid-September. The wellattended meeting heard from Chair Anne Salter about how The Friends work closely with NHS colleagues to understand their pressures and priorities and then seek to “reach the parts the NHS Budget cannot meet.”
This year has seen a major project to acquire the adjacent former football ground site in order to provide space which will allow evolving NHS needs to be met. In the interim, it is being developed to offer additional, sustainable parking.
Meanwhile, ongoing work in the X-ray department was concluded with an upgrade of the ultrasound room. The Friends have also provided high specification gynaecological surgical instruments. Guest speaker, surgeon gynaecologist Charles Baker, explained how these instruments allow
procedures to be notably less discomforting to patients and offer much faster recovery for local women. Wimborne is one of the few locations nationally to be able to offer this service.
President of The Friends, Dr David Pope, presented certificates of gratitude to Mary and Chris Steele, who volunteer each week to maintain the hospital gardens, and to Clare Dickinson.
A new club has launched to support families of children with Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD).
Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s Disability Charity is now running a PMLD Club during the school holidays and once a month at weekends during term time. It will offer a safe, welcoming space for families to connect, share experiences and enjoy tailored activities.
Children attending the sessions can engage in sensory stories, messy play, music massages, and events led by a range of professionals. The club also provides access to a soft play area, sensory room, cinema room, and outdoor space, ensuring a rich and inclusive environment for all participants.
Charlotte Snowshall, short breaks assistant at Diverse Abilities, said: “It is great to be able to offer the PMLD Club
sessions for these children and families who often face significant challenges. The children get to join in with activities that they may not otherwise have access to, and families get to meet others who are facing similar challenges.” To learn more about the PMLD Club and to find out about future sessions, visit diverseabilities. org.uk/pmldclub.
AFC Bournemouth footballers have learned new skills.
The players, together with club ambassador Steve Fletcher and club staff, were taught how to give CPR and to use a defibrillator by University Hospitals Dorset’s Resuscitation Team.
The initiative aims to equip individuals with the skills and confidence to respond quickly in situations of cardiac arrest, which could happen anywhere, including at home or on the football pitch.
The training session was held to encourage others to learn CPR, as many of us will witness a cardiac arrest in our lifetime.
Resuscitation Officer Liz
Ponsford said: “It’s important to know you don’t have to be an expert in CPR. Learning these simple skills will improve chances of survival. Early CPR intervention increases the chance of survival by 50 per cent, and early defibrillation increases that further to 85 per cent. In the crucial moments following a cardiac arrest, every minute really does matter.”
Steve Fletcher said: “We want to thank the Resuscitation Team for visiting us. It has given us the confidence to practise these important skills that could save a friend, family member, or someone in our community.”
The Carer Money Matters Team is so excited to offer a series of free virtual workshops that you can attend virtually this autumn. These friendly sessions are packed with useful tips, support, and resources to help you manage your finances. Each workshop lasts 30–40 minutes, plus a Q&A session afterwards.
3 November 1pm–2pm & 7pm–8pm
‘Financial MOT: Are You Getting What You’re Entitled To’ This workshop gives an overview of benefits and entitlements, energy and utility savings, and how to access grants and support.
11 November 12pm–1pm & 6pm–7pm
‘Energy Saving at Home: Smart Tips for Carers’ Learn about energy-saving tips, how to access support for bills or debt, and ways to stay well during cold weather.
12 November 12pm–1pm & 6pm–7pm
‘Holiday-Ready: Planning Ahead & Spending Smart’ This session offers budgeting tips, ideas for low-cost gifts and activities, and advice on avoiding seasonal debt.
27 November 1pm–2pm & 7pm–8pm
‘Working While Caring: Finding the Right Balance’ Understand more about your rights as a working carer, including flexible work options, returning to work, and advice on job searching and building your CV.
To reserve your spot on any of these workshops, email events@ carersupportservices.co.uk. For more information, scan the QR code.
Home-Start Wessex is one of four charities to receive a share of £18,900 funds from AFC Bournemouth (AFCB) Charity Partnership.
Over the past two seasons, the club has worked closely with Home-Start Wessex, Stormbreak, Helpful Hounds, and Mosaic, and involved their beneficiaries and teams in club activities. Each charity has received £4,725.
The club hosted Home-Start Wessex’s family Christmas event at The Vitality Stadium, and a match day activation at the AFC Bournemouth Men’s match against Brentford, where the charity served as flag bearers.
To celebrate International Women’s Day, young supporters of the charity walked out as mascots with AFC Bournemouth Women’s players at the Ringwood Community Hub.
Caroline Pope, corporate partnerships & marketing manager at Home-Start Wessex, said: “We are incredibly grateful to AFC Bournemouth for their fantastic support over the past two years. Their donation will enable us to continue our life-changing work to give children the best possible start in life.”
Home-Start Wessex is recruiting kind, compassionate volunteers to offer emotional and practical support to parents with young children across Dorset. If you could spare a few hours a week, contact heidi@homestartwessex.org.uk.
A community project brought together a local choir, with members aged between 10 and 91, to raise funds for Forest Holme Hospice Charity in Poole.
Led by choir founder and vocal coach Tim Dowland, who has coached on BBC’s ‘The Voice’, the group recorded a powerful rendition of Coldplay’s ‘All My Love’ re-titled as ‘All Our Love’, accompanied by a video filmed at Forest Holme Hospice and released in September.
Known collectively as Tim’s Singers, the project features 102 members from the Citrus Singers, The Sing and Grin Choir, and Balance Choir, which also includes Forest
Holme volunteers and staff.
Dowland said: “A few years ago, several choir members had loved ones cared for at Forest Holme, and their stories touched us deeply. Since then, we have been continually inspired by the extraordinary work the hospice does for our community.”
Dowland secured a licence to use the song and thoughtfully re-imagined the lyrics. At time of publishing, he has raised £4,395 with a target of £10,000.
To watch Tim’s Singers perform ‘All Our Love’ and make a donation, visit forestholmehospice.enthuse. com/pf/allourlove.
Residents of Dorset are being asked to organise a Christmas Eve picnic to raise funds for humanitarian relief in Gaza
A Wimborne resident is calling on members of the Dorset community to take part in their own festive picnic to help raise funds for charity.
Moved by the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Glenda Stansbury is urging residents to gather with family or friends on Christmas Eve and think of others, at one of the most compassionate times of the year, and make a donation to the British Red Cross.
She said: “I am sure that, after watching news bulletins regarding the plight of Gaza, there are several people who, like me, think: how can we possibly help, and could we even make a difference?
“It is too easy to think it is someone else’s responsibility, but positive actions do help.”
She is promoting the picnic fundraiser as a way to spread compassion and empathy to others across the miles during the Christmas season.
“The idea is that people get together and have a picnic of their choice and wherever
they choose on Christmas Eve. Whether that be together in a park, in a community hall, or even virtually with others, just to spend a few hours thinking of those less fortunate and how fortunate our own pathways are.
“Perhaps it will be an opportunity to enlighten children gently about the lives of other families overseas.
“It would be a time to take a step back and take stock to appreciate all we have whilst offering some empathy to those families in Gaza. At a time when we quite often feel stressed with the pressures of Christmas, this opportunity to do something different on Christmas Eve may bring a different slant and in doing so enhance our own wellbeing over Christmas.
“When I was bringing my own family up, many years ago, I often used to think ‘let’s keep things simpler and do a Christmas picnic on the beach’. But it’s not too late; I will invite my adult children this year for that Christmas picnic and we can collectively donate to this appeal together.”
Glenda has suggested making a donation of £30 (which is approximately the cost of a turkey dinner in the UK.) She stressed that this is not to take away any of the celebrations people may already have in place for Christmas, and added: “Much like the clapping for the NHS during Covid on a Thursday evening, this is just a chance to collaboratively spread compassion and empathy while making a charitable donation.”
The British Red Cross is supporting the Palestine Red Crescent Society with its lifesaving work in Gaza. Thanks to donations, the society has provided over 1.6 million emergency relief items, supported over 900,000 people with health services, and set up 27 camps for displaced people in Gaza. It distributes around 1,000 hot meals daily to displaced people.
To make a donation for your Christmas Eve picnic, please visit giving.givestar.com/online/british-red-cross/ glenda-fundraising-gaza.
By Eve Went, co-founder of Dorset Cancer Care Foundation
The Deputy Mayor of Bournemouth, Cllr George Farquhar, was one of seven people who took part in this year’s Run Bournemouth for the Dorset Cancer Care Foundation (DCCF) — sporting one of our rather fetching new red running vests.
Cllr Farquhar tackled the half marathon for the second year running for the DCCF. He was joined in the half marathon by Katy Beel, Taylor Bangezhano, and Emily James. While DCCF runners Chris Speers, Nuno Almeida and Samantha Bumford tackled the Supersonic 10K.
We are hugely appreciative of everyone who agrees to take part in Run Bournemouth or Run Edinburgh for us, and in return for the sponsorship they raise, we pay their race registration, give them a fab red vest to wear, and offer them our support on social media.
Between them, this year’s team raised hundreds of pounds in sponsorship for the DCCF’s continued work supporting Dorset families struggling financially
because of a cancer diagnosis.
If you’d like to sign up to next year’s Run Bournemouth, the DCCF will pay for your registration in any of the events — 5k, 10k or half marathon — in return for you raising sponsorship for the charity.
Or if you are thinking of taking part in another sporting event next year, such as The Great North Run, the London Marathon, an abseil or a Tough Mudder, we would love for you to take part for the DCCF.
Please let us know, so we can get in touch and offer our support.
Of course, you don’t have to raise a sweat to help our work. You and your children or grandchildren could stage your own event — like walking a mile a week for the DCCF. Or you could host friends or family for a tea party, coffee and cake, or a Sunday roast and charge a donation to attend.
We also have a packed programme of events you can be part of and
in doing so support us.
Or, if you’re busy, you can simply donate online or even consider leaving us a legacy in your will.
There are many ways to help our work, and you can find lots of ideas on our website: dccf.co.uk.
October’s issue featured a restaurant review of Love All Food’s delicious tapas menu, served on Friday and Saturday evenings.
Luke Graham took his wife to the family-run restaurant on Ringwood Road in Ferndown and enjoyed its modern yet laidback vibe. In his review, Luke wrote that it was an “excellent meal out” and particularly enjoyed the “salty and savoury” olive tapenade, as well as the pork bites which he described as a “smoky, meaty food sensation.”
This month, Dorset View is offering one lucky reader the chance to try the restaurant for themselves by winning a £60 voucher for a meal at Love All Food.
To enter our prize draw, all you need to do is email us with the answer to the following question:
Good luck, and please read the details below before entering the competition.
Enter online at dorsetview.co.uk. The £60 voucher will be valid for three months from the date of issue and must be redeemed towards the cost of food only at Love All Food, 489 Ringwood Road, Ferndown, BH22 9AG. No change will be given. Closing date is 7 December 2025. The first correct answer drawn will be the winner. Employees of Pulford Publicity Ltd are not permitted to enter. There is no cash alternative. The editor’s decision is final. Personal details will be stored securely and will only be processed to determine the winner of the competition and allocate the prize. The winner will be announced in the magazine.
At the Wimborne Food Festival on Saturday 20 September, chocolatier Christian Ørner from Poole (left) and ‘Masterchef’ semi-finalist Dr George Williams from Sturminster Marshall (right) were asked to help judge the “Bake for Victory” cake competition. Out of 15 Victoria Sponges entered into the competition, the two top chefs chose James Tulk, who bakes for Riverside Café, as the winner.
In August’s issue, we offered readers the chance to win a £60 voucher for Bates Restaurant. It turned out that the restaurant on Charminster Road is extremely popular, as our competition received a whopping 790 entries!
The lucky winner was Samantha Smith, who correctly answered that Bates Restaurant serves traditional English cuisine. We hope you enjoy your meal, Sam.
The Bournemouth Writing Festival is to mark the 175th birthday of Robert Louis Stevenson with an atmospheric evening under marquees at Skerryvore Gardens in Westbourne on Thursday 13 November from 7pm to 9pm.
This is the site where Stevenson wrote ‘Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde’, published in 1886.
Stevenson’s years in Westbourne were some of his most productive: as well as ‘Jekyll and Hyde’, he wrote ‘Kidnapped’ and ‘A Child’s Garden of Verses’ with fellow author Henry James.
Festival director Dominic Wong said: “Robert
Louis Stevenson’s time in Bournemouth is often overlooked, yet it was here that he wrote some of his greatest works. This event brings his legacy to life in the place where it happened — with words, performances and community spirit coming together to celebrate one of our most famous literary residents.”
The evening will end with a chance for readers, writers and the local community to network and connect in the very gardens that inspired one of literature’s most enduring tales. For tickets and further details, visit bournemouthwritingfestival. co.uk.
By Luke Graham
This thrilling performance of ‘The 39 Steps’ was laugh-outloud funny with impressive production design. It was well worth a night out to the theatre.
Based on John Buchan’s 1915 novel and Alfred Hitchcock’s iconic film from 1935, this stage adaption turns the classic thriller into comic farce, parodying Hitchcock’s style and playing with the conventions of theatre.
The story follows a British gentleman, Richard Hannay, who is pulled into a sinister conspiracy and forced to travel the country and avoid the authorities, all to uncover the mystery of ‘The 39 Steps’.
This stage version challenges four actors to play over 130 roles and portray set pieces like a train chase, bridge escape, and plane crash using simple stage props.
Revive Theatre did a remarkable job. The stage design was brilliant, and the cast were incredibly funny.
Sean Beaumont was impeccable as Richard Hannay, able to garner the
audience’s sympathy while still playing up the jokes.
Tabitha Cox played three very different female parts — the mysterious secret agent Annabelle, the simple country girl Margaret, and the no-nonsense Pamela — and was fantastic.
Every other role is played by two clowns — that’s not an insult, that’s what they’re called in the programme!
Chris Stowe and Dean Rawson (also the technical director, set designer and set builder of the company) played their parts excellently. They get to have the most fun by playing such a diverse range of characters, from police and pilots to farmers and villains. The loudest laughs of the night were caused by their antics.
This playful, slapstick show was performed at a professional standard. Well done to the cast, crew and director Richard Batt. Revive Theatre’s next production will be ‘The Curious Incident of the Dog in the NightTime’ in September 2026.
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Get into the festive spirit at our magical Christmas Fayres on Saturday 29 November and Saturday 6 December at The Barrington Centre, Ferndown.
Discover a wonderful selection of homemade cakes and bakes, unique crafts, fashion, bespoke jewellery, face painting, and so much more. It’s the perfect place to find special gifts, treat yourself, and enjoy a warm, community atmosphere.
So, make sure to mark your calendars and join in for a day full of creativity, food and lots of fun, and not forgetting the Christmas
light switch on from 11am on Saturday 29 November.
A popular community event is set to return to the streets of Broadstone after being cancelled at late notice in 2024
Last year was due to be the 53rd Broadstone Christmas Parade, but the annual procession couldn’t go ahead due to extremely stormy weather.
This year, to save us from tears, a new committee is going to give the town something special.
In August, there were concerns that the 2025 parade might not go ahead due to a lack of volunteers. Fortunately, a new set of residents stepped forward to join the planning committee and ensure the parade goes ahead this December.
In previous years, the parade has featured all manner of floats, marching bands, colourful costumes and community groups. Classic
cars, vintage vehicles and antique steam engines are likely to feature once again.
The Broadstone Christmas Parade has traditionally been well-supported by the council, local groups and businesses. In the past, there has also been a market alongside parade. However, the new organisers
have said the market will not be taking place this year due to the difficulty of organising it in time, but they plan to bring the market back in 2026.
As well as the parade, there will be a Christmas Window Trail, where QR codes will be displayed in shop windows along Broadstone
High Street. When the code is scanned with a mobile phone, a Christmas character will appear unique to each store.
There is still time for community groups or individuals to take part in the parade, and the organisers are recruiting volunteers to marshal the parade route. To contact the organisers,
email broadstonexmasparade@ gmail.com or search for the Broadstone Christmas Parade page on Facebook. The Broadstone Christmas Parade will take place on Saturday 6 December at 1.30pm. At the time of writing, details of the route were still being confirmed.
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Whilst enjoying the Broadstone Christmas Parade on Saturday 6 December, be sure to visit St John’s Church Magical Christmas Tree Festival (10am–4pm, Macaulay Road/Dunyeats Road).
There you can walk through a winter wonderland of specially themed Christmas trees, enjoy drinks and cakes, and children’s crafts tables. Free entry, and a free hot drink if you buy a £1 programme. Plus, Santa Claus will see the children from 3.15pm (on Saturday only).
Also open Sunday 7 December, 2pm–4pm.
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In Bournemouth Square, the Christmas Market will be held from 13 November to 31 December, with festive chalets selling treats, gifts, food and drink. Open daily from 11am till late. Plus, visit the Alpine Lodge Bar if you fancy a mulled wine, cider, beer or hot chocolate. There will be artificial snowfall from the Lodge balcony at 5pm Monday to Thursday and at 2pm, 5pm and 7pm Friday to Sunday.
In the Lower Gardens from 13 November 2025 to 4 January 2026, enjoy the magical Christmas Tree Wonderland, featuring enchanting illuminations and lighting installations, or show off your skills in the SKATE Bournemouth ice rink. Book your tickets from iceskatebournemouth.co.uk.
Christchurch High Street’s Christmas lights switch-on will take place on Saturday 22 November from 11am to 7pm, featuring music by local band We Are Robots as well as Nia Nicols, Acoustix, Batala Samba Band and a selection of community choirs and bands.
Then, from 1–24 December, take part in the Christchurch Living Advent Calendar (CLAC). This fundraising event sees 24 talented artists perform at 24 different venues across the town, raising money for 24 charities.
Since 2021, the CLAC has raised over £83,000, and the organisers expect to cross over the £100,000 line this year. For details, pick up a programme or visit christchurchlivingadventcalendar.org.uk.
The Christmas in Ferndown Market will take place on 29 November from 11am to 5pm in Penny’s Lodge Car Park. This free public event will feature entertainment for all the family: market stalls, food and drink, Santa’s Grotto, music and more. The Ferndown Christmas Tree Lights will be switched on by the mayor at 5pm.
On 10 December, there is a free Christmas concert performed by the Bournemouth Youth Marching Band in The Barrington Centre at 7.15pm. And on 12 December, there will be carol singing and a performance by Ferndown Concert Brass outside The Barrington at 6pm, followed by a free concert by Five Star Swing inside the centre at 7.30pm. This is a ticketed event with a suggested donation of £10, available to reserve online or in person at the box office.
Visitors to Poole can look forward to seeing Christmas light installations stretching from the quay, through the High Street and all the way to Lighthouse Poole.
The lights switch-on will be in the evening of Saturday 22 November and will feature a Santa parade from Lighthouse Poole down to Poole Quay, choir performances and even a fire-eating display.
In December, there will be a Christmas window trail, a shop window display competition, and
performances by choirs and brass bands. Don’t forget to visit Santa or pop a letter into Santa’s Post Box.
And setting off from Poole Quay at 7.30pm every Friday and Saturday in December, there will be a jolly Christmas party cruise on Poole Harbour with drinks, a Christmas dinner and dancing. Visit coastalcruisespoole. co.uk to book.
The festive season in Wimborne Minster kicks off on Saturday 29 November with the Christmas lights switch-on and market in the Town Square.
On Saturday 13 December, the annual Save the Children Parade will once again bring colour and celebration to the town, as families, schools, and community groups join a procession and raise funds for Save the Children.
On Friday 19 December, the ever-popular Carols in The Corn Market will take place, bringing the community together to sing.
Then on Saturday 20 December, the Mayor’s Charity Collection will take place in the Town Square, featuring a performance by The Quarterjacks of Wimborne Marching Band.
And don’t miss the Christmas Craft Fair in the Allendale on Saturday 22 November from 10am to 4pm for your chance to buy a handmade Christmas gift.
If you’re feeling brave, why not take a dip in the sea on Christmas Day and raise money for Macmillan Caring Locally?
The annual White Christmas Dip will see hundreds of people taking an early morning swim –usually in fancy dress costume.
The event takes place to the right of Boscombe Pier in
Bournemouth and is open to all ages. You will need to sign in between 9.45am and 10.00am on Christmas Day, with the dip taking place at 10.30am.
Online registration opens on 7 November, and tickets costs £12 per person in advance or £15 on the day. To learn more, visit whitechristmasdip.co.uk.
By Luke Graham
October is an unusual time of year for a pantomime, but Ferndown Phoenix Musical Theatre’s recent production of ‘Dick Whittington’ was delightful nonetheless.
Performing at The Barrington Centre from 9–11 October, this large cast did very well, helping theatregoers get into the Christmas spirit (a few months earlier than usual).
The story followed the titular Dick and his cat Jess on a quest to become Lord Mayor of London. Along the way he encounters evil rats, treacherous pirates and falls in love with the beautiful Alice Fitzwarren.
The cast performed admirably, with some impressive song and dance numbers, good humour and great costumes. The sets were remarkable, especially the
Details were correct at the time of going to print. Send information about your events to newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk.
3, 10, 17, 24 November 9am–4pm Christchurch Market every Monday. Approximately 50 stalls in the High Street. 5, 12, 19, 26 November 11am–1.30pm Colehill Community Cafe, St Michael & All Angels Church Centre, Colehill. 6, 13, 20, 27 November 1.45pm Dorset Cricket Society meets at Hurn Bridge Sports Club, Christchurch, BH23 6DY. Visit dorsetcricketsociety. co.uk for details.
8, 15, 22, 29 November Junior Chess Club for ages six to 14 years at Ferndown Library. Details on ferndownjuniorchess.co.uk.
8 November 5pm–10.30pm Fireworks at The Littledown Centre, Bournemouth. Three displays in one night. Details on bournemouthfireworks.co.uk.
8 November from 5.30pm Fireworks and Bonfire Night at Butchers Coppice, Holloway Avenue, Bear Cross, Bournemouth. Guy Fawkes competition at 7pm. Firework display from 7.30pm. Ticketed event. Visit butcherscoppice.org.uk/ events-calendar/fireworks.
huge ship in the second act.
Marie Cormack and Alice Weller were both very good as the main characters Alice Fitzwarren and Dick Whittington, with some great singing. Linda Robbins and Sally Blyther were both highly entertaining as Lady Fitzwarren and Frankie Bogpot. And Mike Jones has a career ahead of him as a pantomime dame. His Betty Bogpot was very funny, especially as he towered over the cast in his heels and bright wig.
A special shoutout to Marion Colmer as the evil Queen Rat. She made for a great panto villain and did incredibly well singing a version of Meatloaf’s ‘Bat Out of Hell’.
In her review of the show, the five-year-old Junior Editor said: “I loved the Queen Rat, she was so funny, and I loved her costume.”
8 November 7.30pm
Bournemouth Bach Choir and Orchestra perform Karl Jenkins’ ‘The Armed Man’ at Wimborne Minster church. Tickets from Square Records, ticketsource.uk\bournemouthbach-choir or at the door.
9 November 10am
Wimborne in Bloom Charities Fair in King Street Community Centre.
10 November 2.30pm West Moors Horticultural Society meets at the Memorial Hall.
10 November 7pm for 7.30pm Ferndown & West Moors Philatelic and Postcard Club meets at The Hamworthy Club, Magna Road, BH21 3AP.
11–14 November
Coastal Life Stories at Gather, Dolphin Centre, Poole.
12 November 6.30pm–9pm Bournemouth Big Band, Swing and Jazz Club meet in Kinson Community Centre. Details on bournemouthjazzclub.org.
12 November 7.30pm
Canford and Merley WI meets at Merley Community Centre, Harrier Drive. Ukulele group Frayed Strings will perform a singalong session. For details, call Hazel on 07780 705702.
12 November 7.30pm
East Dorset Antiquarian Society meets at St Catherine’s Church Hall, Rodways Corner, Wimborne.
My favourite part of the show was Kelsey Pickett as Jess the cat. The young girl’s physical comedy and antics on stage were hilarious. This was a wonderful and entertaining show. Well done to the cast and crew.
13 and 27 November 7.30pm
Ringwood Natural History Society meets at Greyfriars Community Centre, Ringwood, BH24 1DW. For details, call John Gurney on 01425 471362 or 07395 855 404.
13 November–4 January
Bournemouth Christmas Tree Wonderland.
13 November–4 January
SKATE Bournemouth ice rink at the Lower Gardens.
15 November 7.30 for 8pm ‘The Messengers’ screening at Fordingbridge Town Hall, 63 High Street, SP6 1AS. Free tickets from fordingbridgechurches. eventbrite.com.
16 November 3pm
Joanna Lam plays at Kimmeridge Hall, Bournemouth University, BH12 5BB. Tickets on the door or at bournemouthchambermusic.co.uk.
18 November 7.30pm Wimborne Civic Society meets at new venue of Allendale House.
19 November 10am
West Moors Flower Group meets at the Memorial Hall.
20 November–1 December 10am–4pm The Opportunists exhibition at The Gallery Upstairs, Upton Country Park, BH17 7BJ.
Following sell out performances of their annual ‘Plays n Chips’ in September, Broadstone Players are now getting ready for their next production: ‘Abigail’s Party’, the 1970s comedy of manners by Mike Leigh. Many readers will remember the famous BBC production starring Alison Steadman as the hostess of the disastrous dinner party. Performances in Broadstone War Memorial Hall Theatre, Tudor Road, are from Tuesday 18 to Saturday 22 November at 7.30pm, with a matinee on the Saturday at 2.15pm. Tickets can be reserved by emailing honsec@ broadstoneplayers.co.uk or phoning 01202 678449. They are also on sale at Broadstone News.
20–22 November 7.30pm
Poole and Parkstone Productions present ‘History in Harmony’ at The Barrington Centre, Ferndown. Saturday matinee at 2.30pm. Book via ticketsource.co.uk/pandp/emqarvz or call 0333 666 3366.
21–23 November
Wimborne Art Club winter exhibition at Pamphill Village Hall, 1pm–4pm on 21 and 22 November, and 10am–4pm on 23 November.
22 November 7.30pm
Concert at Wimborne Minster church in aid of Minster Makes Music Appeal. Tickets on the door and at Square Records.
23 November 4pm
Broadstone Music Series concert at St John’s Church, Macaulay Road, BH18 8AR. Advanced online booking at broadstonemusicseries.info.
23 November
Poole Christmas Light Trail begins.
24 November 7.30pm
John Maddocks Jazzmen at the Bluebird Social Club, Ham Lane, Ferndown, BH22 9DP.
25 November 7.30pm
West Parley Gardening Club meets at the MS Centre Dorset, Church Lane, West Parley, BH22 8TS.
25 November 8pm–9pm Advent calendar workshop at The Treehouse, Merritown Lane, Christchurch, BH23 6DT. Visit diverseabilities.org.uk/events.
October didn’t bring good news on the heating front, as increases in gas and electricity prices meant energy costs rose by two per cent as Ofgem’s latest price cap changes came into effect.
So, how can you cut your winter heating bills?
Here’s some advice from activeheatingservices.co.uk.
First, seal draughts around doors and windows. You can use self-adhesive weatherstrips, brush seals, or draught excluders. Don’t forget letterboxes, keyholes, and loft hatches. Even small gaps can lose lots of heat.
Open curtains fully during sunny days to let in natural heat but close them as soon as it gets dark to trap warmth. Thermal or lined curtains offer extra insulation.
Wooden floors, tiles, and laminate allow heat to escape. Rugs and carpets act as insulation, making rooms feel warmer without turning up the thermostat.
Keep radiators clear — move sofas, beds, or long curtains that block heat flow. Allow warm air to circulate freely through rooms.
Lower the thermostat by just one degree C to save up to 10 per cent on heating bills.
Heat only the rooms you use regularly, and close doors to empty rooms. Use smart plugs or timers to avoid wasting energy overnight or when out.
Finally, consider installing radiator reflectors (foil panels placed behind radiators) to bounce heat back into the room.
from - Advertiser’s announcement -
Are you affected by hard water?
Hard water is formed when rainwater percolates through rock that is rich in calcium and magnesium.
On the South Coast there is an abundance of limestone, which is why so many households suffer from the damaging effects of limescale.
What’s the damage?
Unsightly water marks that accumulate on shower screens, tiles, and kitchen sinks are caused, but there’s a lot more going on behind the scenes. Over time, as hard water passes through household appliances fitted with heating elements, such as washing machines, hot water cylinders, boilers and kettles, the scale will build up on the element. This will decrease the efficiency of the appliance and ultimately shorten its life. Other fixtures like shower valves and taps will also become affected. When you’re spending money
on home improvements like a new bathroom, kitchen or boiler, it really does make sense to protect your investment by fitting a water softener in your home. What is a water softener?
A water softener is a clever device that is connected to the incoming mains water supply. It removes the calcium from the water and sends it down the drain before it has a chance to wreak havoc in your home.
Glass and tiled surfaces stay shiny, taps and valves work as they should and your appliances operate at optimum efficiency with a much longer life span.
AquaTight can help!
AquaTight offer a comprehensive range of quality water softeners to suit your needs and budgets. Call now on 01202 983858 for a free, no obligation quote.
With the colder weather returning, what simple jobs can you do to prevent damage to your property this winter?
Doing these jobs now will not only protect your home but could help save on bills or costly repairs in the long run. Here are some top tips from Gary Bagley, construction director at housebuilder Barratt Homes. Check your roof and clear your gutters
As the old saying goes: “The time to fix the roof is when the sun is shining.”
Late autumn might not be too sunny, but it is better to do something now in case of extreme winter weather.
Bagley said: “Strong winds and storms can damage tiles and create holes in your roof that water can leak in from.
“Be sure to regularly check your roof space for any leaks. Even a small leak can be devastating to a home.”
If you discover a leak, contact a local professional as soon as possible. There are several local
roofing specialists who advertise in this magazine who can help you.
Also, clean out the gutters if you can. Fallen leaves and moss can block gutters, stopping rainwater from draining away. This water may then leak into your home through small cracks or create damp environments where pests can thrive. Look after your boiler It is crucial to get a professional to check your boiler once a year. This ensures it is working correctly, safely and efficiently.
Bagley added: “You can also do some basic boiler checks. Look for any unfamiliar smells or stains around the boiler, and that you have working smoke alarms upstairs and downstairs, and fit a carbon monoxide detector close to your boiler.”
Bleed your radiators
According to a survey by Barratt Homes, almost a third (31 per cent) of British homeowners don’t know how to bleed a radiator.
“While you can bleed your radiators at any time, it’s a good idea to do this before the cold weather comes,” explained Bagley. “You’ll know when your radiators need bleeding, as the bottom half will become hot while the top remains cold.”
To bleed a radiator, first turn off your central heating and make sure the radiators are cool — do not bleed hot radiators, as you may burn yourself.
Find the bleed valve, usually at the top of the radiator on one side. Have a bowl and towel handy to catch any water that escapes from the valve. Use your radiator key to turn the valve anti-clockwise until you hear the hiss of air escaping. Once all the trapped air has been released, the hissing will stop and water will begin to leave the valve — that’s when it’s time to close
the valve. Your radiator should now work more efficiently. Insulate your pipes Frozen pipes pose a significant danger to your home, as the freezing water could burst your pipes.
Prevent this by insulating your pipes and water tanks, especially if you have any pipes outdoors or running through cold areas of your home, such as a loft, basement, or garage.
Bagley said: “Insulating your pipes doesn’t have to be expensive and can be done as a DIY job. You can buy foam pipe insulation rather cheaply, though better quality insulators will set you back more.”
Get the gritting salt ready
“Buying gritting salt is something that many people don’t think about until they find their driveway or paths frozen and a hazard,” said Bagley.
Gritting your walkways and driveways will prevent any unwanted slips or falls, especially if you live on an incline or have steps leading to your home.
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Step into a home filled with warmth and character, and you can often sense the stories woven into its furniture and the fabric of its walls. That’s exactly what Ryan Haynes of House of Haynes helps people preserve and create — one handcrafted piece at a time.
From his local workshop, Ryan transforms tired chairs, creative design ideas, and inherited treasures into bespoke pieces that breathe new life into a room. Every project starts with a conversation — about your home, your taste, and the feeling you want to capture. Then comes the fun part: choosing fabrics that reflect your style and the soul of the space.
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Clubs work together
Members from two Wimborne clubs have banded together to bring the clubs back into activity. They are the Round Table, a social group for men up to the age of 45 which closed some time ago, and 41 Club, which is for men over that age. Both groups will offer regular meetings with varied programmes of activities around Wimborne and the local area. For information, contact wimborne@roundtable. org.uk or wimborne41club@gmail.com.
The Countryside Alliance Awards, known affectionately as the ‘Rural Oscars’, are back for 2026, shining a spotlight on the people, businesses and communities that make rural Britain so special. Nominations are open in categories including: Village Shop and Post Office; Butcher; Pub; Local Food; Rural Enterprise; and the Clarissa Dickson Wright Award. Nominations close on 12 December. Regional finalists will attend an awards ceremony in the House of Lords next summer to find out whether they have earned the coveted accolade of grand champion. To vote, log onto research.net/r/CAA26web.
Last month’s cover of Dorset View and the fashion show photos on page 6 were attributed to Arts University Bournemouth. This was an error. The photo credit belongs to freelance photographer Ruth Virgo.
To see more of her work, visit ruthvirgo.com.
Ringwood Town Council has approved grants to five local organisations. Ringwood Men’s Shed is to receive £250; Ringwood Rotary £100; St Peter & St Paul Parish Church £250; Helping Older People (HOPe) New Forest £250; and Forest Forge Theatre Company £250.
Salisbury Hospital’s charity The Stars Appeal raised a record-breaking total of £166,946 at its 20th Walk for Wards event in the summer. Over 2,100 walkers registered to take part in the sponsored walk on Sunday 6 July at Wilton House.
To express your opinion or idea about the community send your letters to letters@dorsetview.co.uk
A topic that I care for is the safety of people in Dorset, and I feel it is becoming increasingly more dangerous for local residents and for visitors and students coming down to Bournemouth: 784 crimes were reported in Bournemouth alone in July 2025 according to Police UK. I worry about how families may be unable to feel safe walking around at night and how some of Dorset’s most beautiful areas such as our beaches do not feel so safe anymore.
I am also concerned by the fact that the most commonly reported crime in Bournemouth is violence and sexual offences, with 10,820 cases reported during 2025 according to crimerate.co.uk. I worry that if this problem grows then it will deter locals and those wanting to visit away from Bournemouth and give Dorset a bad reputation that it should not have. As a community it is concerning, but I have hope that this problem will be resolved.
Ben Woodland Via email
Daft Dorset Rhymes
By Coralie Noakes
The bears’ dares
Two naughty teddies from Wareham
Love to do pranks if you dare them
The two cheeky bears
Put some worms on bears’ chairs
And cheekily hoped they would scare them!
Sturminster Newton news
A handsome young beagle, called Barry
Went to St Mary’s to marry
He put his best suit on
In Sturminster Newton
And married a Collie, called Carrie!
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Trying to book a driving test is driving many people to despair, especially young people in rural locations.
In one memorable recent story, a grandfather from Wimborne spent weeks getting up early on Monday mornings trying to book a test for his grandson through the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) website.
On one occasion, despite waking up at 5.30am and logging on by 6am, Martin Druce reportedly found himself 17,530th in the queue, before being kicked off the system and wrongly flagged as a bot. After hours of trying, he was met with the frustrating message: “No tests found on any date.”
The backlog of learners waiting to take tests increased sharply during the Covid pandemic when driving exams were put on hold.
Local MP Vikki Slade and colleagues responded to the backlog by challenging the minister and DVSA over the situation. In September, the DVSA announced that it recognised the issue and will recruit four new examiners for Poole.
Despite this success, Slade is calling for urgent action to improve transport for young people in rural areas, warning that too many are being left
without affordable options.
The Liberal Democrat MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole said: “For young people in rural areas like Dorset, being able to drive can be the difference between getting a job and being stuck at home. The DVSA backlog has left far too many in limbo.
“I’m pleased my intervention has delivered results locally, but the wider system still needs reform.”
One proposal that Slade is supporting is the extension of a scheme in Scotland that offers free bus passes for under-22s. She said the scheme would give young people in rural areas like Dorset more independence and opportunities.
“If you can’t drive or can’t afford the bus, you’re cut off from school, work, and training. Free bus travel for under-22s would be a real lifeline for rural communities.”
Car parking charges are always an emotive subject, so Forestry England’s plan to introduce fees at all 129 car parks across the central Crown Lands of the Forest – around 50 per cent of the National Park – is unlikely to be welcomed by motorists.
Subsequently, the New Forest National Park Authority (NPA) has called on Forestry England to reinvest all income generated from the new car parking scheme back into the New Forest National Park.
Forestry England is the land manager for the Crown Lands of the National Park, while the NPA doesn’t own any land, nor does it have a remit to
If there is one thing that concerns so many drivers it is parking, with many of us being phased by reverse and front bay parking — not to mention the dreaded parallel parking.
The charity GEM Motoring Assist has some advice.
Reversing into a parking space between two lines is a useful and safe method to park in car parks and is preferable to forward bay parking. If you have a reversing camera or parking sensors, use them wisely, but don’t rely on them too much.
If you drive forward into a bay, remember that reversing out is less safe, and it’s harder to see behind you.
Drive forward past the bay
approve or refuse the parking scheme as any changes are classed as permitted development and don’t require planning permission. It is also not in line to receive any of the income generated by the car parking charges.
The NPA’s Deputy Chairperson Victoria Mander said that, with Forestry England facing a national deficit, the NPA’s Defra budget having been reduced by 50 per cent over the past decade, and future funding for commoning unresolved, it is vital that some of this new income is directed towards the New Forest to help support its long-term future.
you want to reverse into and stop when the rear of your car is about two bays past the one you’re parking in. Put the car into reverse and turn the wheel toward the bay you’re aiming for - if it’s on the left, turn the wheel left. Move slowly and smoothly. Once your car begins to enter the bay, start straightening the wheel. Your goal is to have the car centred between the lines.
A word of warning. While not always an illegal offence on public roads, failing to park within marked bays can lead to a fine from the car park operator, particularly if you are blocking another space or causing an obstruction.
Motorists will have to watch their speed in the Allenview Road/ Burts Hill area of Wimborne as 20mph speed limits were introduced in October. The limit could soon be introduced in Sandy Lane and Victory Oak in St Leonards and in Upton in the future, as Dorset Council has received further applications for 20mph schemes, which were due to go to public consultation last month.
Residents interested in the introduction of new 20mph speed limits in their local area should contact their town or parish council or their local Dorset councillor.
How’s this for a heartwarming, pre-Christmas tale of generosity and community spirit?
Thanks to the kind donations of the people of Dorset, an 11-year-old boy from Holt has managed to donate sports supplies including 50 pairs of trainers to children in South Africa.
In 2024, Charlie Forbes visited a small village near the Drakensberg Mountains in South Africa. A keen runner, Charlie took part in a 5km ParkRun with the local community but was shocked to see that the children had to race in bare
feet on tarmac roads.
After coming home, he decided to set up his own charity to help these young athletes by collecting and redistributing used trainers and sports kits. He launched the charity, called Run2Renew, and over the past year he has collected over 100 pairs of trainers and lots of clothes.
Charlie and his father returned to South Africa at the end of August, bringing 50 pairs of trainers and sportswear to children in a small village called Bergville.
The Forbes family organised the donation with
a contact in the region called Lizzie, who operates the Cannibals ParkRun event in the area. She explained Charlie’s charity to the locals and told the children that after the day’s run, everyone would get some shoes and running kit.
Charlie’s father, Scott Forbes, said: “Charlie loved running with the other children despite the high altitude, and after [the run] he helped give out all the donated items.
“We really wanted to do something for the local community to promote health and wellbeing and allow every child that wants
to run that opportunity. It was an unfamiliar and overwhelming experience for Charlie, but he coped admirably and loved chatting and running with the children. He learnt such a lot from the experience that he has brought back to his school.” Run2Renew is continuing to collect trainers and equipment, and plans to return to South Africa next year to donate even more sports gear.
To find out more about the charity or to make a donation, email to jsforbes@ mac.com or visit Charlie’s website: run2renew.org.uk.
