Viewpoint July 2026

VIEWPOINT

Dear Readers!

There are litter picking groups in just about every town and village in our circulation area. They do a sterling job; without them, I fear Dorset and Hampshire would be knee deep in waste. For instance, Wimborne War on Waste face a constant battle.

We have some of the best beaches in the country, but sadly, following the recent hot weather, rubbish was strewn across the seafronts, including empty cans, towels, takeaway wrappers — and yes, plastic bottles.

On one weekend in May, Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole (BCP) Council collected an incredible 23 tonnes of waste.

However, I have just returned from a holiday to the Baltic states of Finland, Estonia and Latvia, and I didn’t spot one piece of litter anywhere.

Either litter pickers were out before dawn, or people just don’t throw things down on pavements hoping someone else will pick them up.

Of course, we’re not the only country with a litter problem. I was shocked at the amount of rubbish on the pavements and roads in India, but as someone famously said: “One man’s litter is another man’s treasure.”

Travelling through Jordan, I was surprised at the amount of litter in the desert — where on earth did that come from, as there was no sign of human habitation?

But on a more positive note, we are now in peak summer events time, and this magazine is packed with pictures taken by staff including those from Fete on the Field in Ferndown.

And I know readers will be keen to see my review of ‘Shrek the Musical’ in which our editor Luke — and his wife — had parts! Head to page 28.

Marilyn Barber

News editor

The Editor reserves the right to amend or shorten contributions in order to fit in with the editorial policy and style of the magazine

VIEWPOINT is independently published and distributed

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VIEWPOINT

Ben Pulford managing director ben@dorsetview.co.uk

Louis Pulford creative director louis@pulfordpublicity.co.uk

Nick Pulford company secretary accounts@pulfordpublicity.co.uk

NEWS DESK

01202 233441

Luke Graham editor luke@dorsetview.co.uk

Marilyn Barber news editor newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk

Rebecca Smith pre-press administrator rebecca@dorsetview.co.uk

Janine Pulford editor-at-large janine@dorsetview.co.uk

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DESIGN

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LOGISTICS

Mike Talbot

First underspend for Dorset Council

Dorset Council’s spending for the 2025/26 financial year has been broadly on budget, with a very small underspend of £169,000 from a total budget of £417 million. This means the council spent slightly less than planned overall — the first time this has happened since the council was formed in 2019.

The council says the improved position has been achieved through tighter financial controls, strong leadership and the hard work of officers across the organisation. It follows a year of focused action to address spending pressures and strengthen how budgets are managed.

For residents, this means the council is now on a firmer footing to protect the everyday services people rely on — including care for vulnerable residents, maintaining roads, waste collection and local facilities.

The rating of the council’s overall financial risk has reduced from high to medium, and reserves have strengthened, giving more resilience to deal with future uncertainty.

The council’s capital programme — its long-term investment in infrastructure and assets — has been ‘right-sized’ so it reflects what the council can realistically deliver each year, removing stalled

and inactive projects and focusing on schemes that are ready to go.

This includes investment across Dorset, with projects in Wimborne, Weymouth, Bridport, Blandford, Swanage and Shaftesbury. Planned works include improvements to roads, coastal defences, school facilities, transport links and community buildings.

Cllr Simon Clifford, Dorset Council’s Cabinet member for Finance & Capital Strategy, said: “After a very challenging period, we are getting a grip of the council’s finances — and this year’s

underspend is a clear sign of progress.

“It hasn’t happened by chance. We’ve put proper controls in place, taken tough decisions and focused on living within our means.

“What we have now is a stronger foundation. We’ve set a realistic capital programme, we’re planning ahead with a three-year budget, and we will keep that same discipline and grip going forward.”

The council will now develop a new three-year budget plan with tight financial controls, prioritising investment that delivers real benefits for Dorset’s communities.

Name that helicopter

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance (DSAA) has launched a competition to choose a name for its new aircraft.

The charity’s second helicopter went into operation in May. This was only possible thanks to the support of thousands of people and businesses in the local community. In recognition of that support, the DSAA is inviting the community to suggest a name for the life-saving vehicle.

Tracy Bartram, head of communications at DSAA, said: “As a charity-funded service, we rely on our supporters every single day, and they are at the heart of everything we do. We know just how much this new helicopter already means to people, so we believe it’s only fitting that the public help to name it and be part of its story in a really personal way.

“We’re proud to give everyone the opportunity to leave a lasting mark on our new helicopter, which will help our team save lives for many years to come.”

To take part, submit a name and a reason for it online via dsairambulance.org.uk/heliname, or post your suggestion to Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Naming Competition, Landacre House, Castle Road, Chelston Business Park, Wellington, TA21 9JQ, or speak to the charity at local events.

The closing date for entries is Tuesday 25 August.

New look for Ferndown high street

Dorset Council has revealed the final designs for the makeover of Victoria Road

Victoria Road in Ferndown is set for a redesign.

Following extensive feedback from residents and businesses during a public consultation in autumn 2025, Dorset Council has revealed the updated, final design for improvements to the street.

The revamped Victoria Road will have new street furniture and bollards in a matching heritage style, as well as new kerbside plant beds, new seating areas and nine large built-in planters for ornamental trees.

The redesign aims to prevent parking on the footpaths while adding greenery and more places to sit and meet.

There are provisions for short-stay parking — a key concern raised by residents. These include up to eight short-stay parking spaces and a new on-road loading bay.

Two taxi rank bays on Princes Road have also been retained.

Cllr Jon Andrews, Dorset Council Cabinet member for Place Services, said: “Victoria Road is at the heart of Ferndown, and these improvements are about making it a welcoming place to spend time, meet friends and support local businesses.”

Cllr Lawrence Wilson, the mayor of Ferndown, said: “Ferndown Town Council is delighted that the final designs have been completed. The project team has tailored the scheme to match as closely as possible to the responses in the consultation.”

Cllr Hannah HobbsChell added: “It has been a long journey, but we are finally seeing the fruits of our commitment and labour in delivering a modern, sustainable, nature-sensitive and fit-for-purpose high street.

“I can’t wait to see spades in the ground in the autumn.”

The updated designs can be viewed in person at

The Barrington Centre until 31 July, or online via the Dorset Council and Ferndown Town Council websites.

Flaming irony

During the middle of the June heatwave, a fire engine from Blandford Forum… caught fire

On Wednesday 24 June, a crew from Blandford Forum were en route to an incident when a fire started in the vehicle.

The crew were able to stop safely on the A350 at Charlton Marshall and no one was injured.

Firefighters from Wimborne and Sturminster Newton were mobilised to deal with the blaze, using three hose reel jets and two breathing apparatus wearers.

Local residents heard what sounded like explosions as the fire engine’s tyres and on-board cylinders (including breathing apparatus)

burst due to the flames.

The fire destroyed the vehicle cab and caused damage to the adjacent grass verge, telegraph cables and the carriageway itself.

The road was closed until the vehicle was recovered, and then only one lane of traffic was reopened while emergency gas works and repairs were undertaken.

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said the firefighters involved were checked over as a precaution by paramedics, with no issues found. An investigation into how the fire started was underway at time of reporting.

What a winner!

Ferndown Fete on the Field gets bigger every year and was hailed a great success by the organisers, Ferndown and Parley Rotary Club. Town Mayor of Ferndown Cllr Lawrence Wilson called the event on Saturday 20 June “the best fete yet”. He added: “Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves, and many residents have told me that they thought it was fantastic. I’d therefore like to say a big thank you to the Rotary and all involved for putting on such a great event for Ferndown.”

It was a first appearance for a climbing wall and tunnel and a model steam train. All proved popular, as did the old favourite, a fire engine.

Verwood Concert Brass, Ferndown First School Choir, Charlotte Geary, the young Swing Squad of four boys and RJ’s SoulCoaster performed on stage, whilst in the arena the Liberty Raptors and Urban Cycles attracted crowds.

Around the perimeter were 80 stalls, as well as the huge classic car section and the catering vans.

The John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation stand saw a steady flow of visitors with queues forming for Hook A Duck. Nick Pulford helped Linda and Peter

Thornton and their volunteers raise funds by selling a variety of his home-grown plants, and author Janine Pulford boosted funds even more by signing copies of her novel ‘Paws in the Flood’. The stand raised £800, including a mystery donation of £500.

Linda Thornton said: “Every penny will make a real difference to young people in our community over the coming months.”

The Rotary organisers thanked “Rotarians and their families who volunteered on the day, and everyone who came to make it the success it was.”

An eye-popping wheelbarrow of drinks was won by Miguel Prior, and the second prize of a hamper went to Sally Buglass.

CORRESPONDENCE

To express your opinion or idea about the community send your letters to letters@dorsetview.co.uk

Bowled over Verwood Bowls Club are very grateful for the publicity Viewpoint Magazine gave us earlier this year for our Open Days. As a direct result, we have 24 new members who are all learning the fun and skills of bowls.

All are welcome to join us. We have a smart casual dress code for roll-ups, and wear club shirts for competitions and league play should you choose to take part. Our weekly Monday Whist Drive continues throughout the year — all club details are on our website: verwoodbowlingclub.co.uk.

Angela Daymond, publicity officer

Via email

The Mayor of Verwood Cllr Simon Gibson attended a recent concert held by the Verwood Choral Society. The event raised over £500 which went to a local charity: the East Dorset and New Forest Branch of the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association. The choir is open to people of all ages. Contact the musical director, Ann Mayo, at annsmayo@yahoo.co.uk. There are no auditions. Rehearsals for the Christmas concert start in September.

Call for green-thumbed gardeners

Whether you are a member of Wimborne Gardening Club or not, you are invited to enter the club’s late summer show which takes place at the Allendale Centre on Saturday 5 September and is open from 12noon to 4pm.

There are classes for everyone to enter, including all kinds of vegetables, fruit and flowers, as well as cookery, floral art, photography, handicrafts and junior classes for those under the age of 11.

For more details, visit the website: wimbornegardeningclub.co.uk.

Specialist nursery offers free group sessions

The Knoll Gardens Foundation in Stapehill Road is offering free entry sessions to groups with an interest in horticulture, nature and the environment and to groups for whom the gardens offer a wellbeing benefit.

The visits can take place on Mondays or Tuesdays, when the gardens are closed to the public.

Over the last few years, the foundation has supported local charities and schools on bespoke gardening projects, offering special access days, and opening its gates to local groups.

Working on a project with Wimborne Community Garden, Knoll Gardens’ Neil Lucas shared his expertise advising on naturalistic plantings. The foundation donated a selection of grasses and perennials from the nursery at Knoll to help realise a newly planned sensory garden.

In another community collaboration in 2025, children from Beaucroft Foundation School in Colehill visited Knoll Gardens on a special access day.

The foundation is also continuing to offer the opportunity for invited local groups and clubs to enjoy the gardens free of charge on Fridays in the summer.

For more information, visit the website: knollgardens.co.uk/foundation.

Dorset Police issue hot weather warning

During the June heatwave, Dorset Police issued advice for residents to stay safe during the heatwave, but the advice is relevant throughout the summer during high temperatures.

First, remember that dogs can die in hot cars. The inside of a car can reach unbearable temperatures quickly. If you are concerned about a dog in a car that is showing signs

of distress, call 999. Be mindful of walking dogs on hot surfaces such as tarmac and sand, as paws can burn easily.

Carry extra water in your vehicle in case of breakdowns and be aware that road conditions may be different in extreme heat.

Cold water shock can affect even the strongest of swimmers. Be careful if trying to cool off in the sea or in

local rivers and streams. The police advise to only swim at designated, supervised locations and keep a close eye on children near open water. If you get into trouble, remember RNLI advice: float to live.

If visiting the beach with children or vulnerable adults, have a plan in case you get separated. Agree on a designated meeting point

with loved ones and take a photo on a phone of what people are wearing that day to help them be identified faster if you’re separated. Don’t have barbecues or campfires on heaths or in open spaces, due to the risk of fire. Barbecues and campfires are banned in many country parks, campsites and open spaces across Dorset and Hampshire.

Starry Skies

By Mark Hardaker FRAS

July is one of the gentler months for stargazing in our region. True darkness is brief with the shortest nights of the year. We have to make the most of the hours between about 11pm and 3am, yet summer skies still offer plenty to enjoy, even for casual skywatchers.

This month is almost your last opportunity to catch Venus glowing low in the western sky after sunset. So brilliant is our neighbouring planet that it is often mistaken for an aircraft light — or even a UFO. As July progresses, Venus sinks lower towards the horizon and closer to the Sun, making it increasingly difficult to spot.

Today, it is a very different story. Elon Musk’s Starlink network alone now numbers more than 10,000 satellites, and it’s rare to spend even a minute outside at night without seeing one.

Satellites are visible only when they are still illuminated by the Sun while we remain in darkness below. We see far more of them during summer because, even at midnight, the Sun is not far beneath the horizon. For professional astronomers, however, these satellite ‘constellations’ are becoming a growing problem. During long-exposure photographs, satellites can leave bright streaks across images captured by telescopes and observatory cameras.

While Venus may steal the show, July’s skies are also busy with artificial satellites crossing overhead. Most are in low Earth orbit, around 150km to 400km above us, circling the planet roughly every 90 minutes. When I first became interested in astronomy, spotting one of these bright, slow-moving ‘stars’ drifting silently across the sky felt special, because back then there were only a few dozen visible satellites in orbit.

You can even try

photographing them yourself using a smartphone. Fix the phone firmly to a tripod — or simply prop it securely so it cannot move — then point it north once the sky is fully dark. Using Night Mode, take a time exposure of around 30 seconds. The stars will appear as tiny sharp points of light, while moving satellites will show up as short bright streaks. You may be surprised by just how many appear in a single photograph.

One of the great joys of stargazing is that expensive equipment is unnecessary. A reclining chair, warm clothing and the dark skies of Dorset

and Hampshire are often all you need. Allow your eyes time to adapt to the darkness and thousands of stars will slowly emerge above you.

For more astronomy news, listen to ‘Starry Skies’ on Forest FM on the first Wednesday of the month at 6.30pm.

Mark Hardaker lives in Verwood. He is an amateur astronomer and treasurer of Fordingbridge Astronomers. The club has an observatory in the international dark sky reserve at Cranborne Chase and provides astronomy outreach events for scouts, guides, youth groups and other organisations on request.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Concert raises £1,350

A concert by Wimborne Community Choir on 20 June raised £1,350 for Wimborne Community Garden. The choir resumes after a summer break on Thursday 10 September. People are invited for a free taster session. For more information, email Susan Davies at colehillcommunitychoir1@gmail.com.

Rock for Heroes

Help for Heroes will benefit from a concert to be held at the Tivoli Theatre on Wednesday 29 July. Rock for Heroes will include hits from such legends as Queen, Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, AC/DC, Bon Jovi, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Fleetwood Mac and Def Leppard. The cast hold a collection for the charity at the end of every show and to date have raised approximately £40,000.

NFDC funding

Community groups in the New Forest District Council area have until Friday 7 August to apply for funding. A previous beneficiary was a circular path in Fordingbridge. For guidelines, visit newforest.govocal. com/en-GB/projects/community-infrastructure-levy-2026.

Mental health funding

Dorset Community Foundation is distributing £1 million in grants to projects that will improve wellbeing, mental health and resilience. Community groups and charities have until 6 August to apply for two-year grants of up to £20,000 or one-year grants of up to £5,000. Eligibility and application details are available online: dorsetcommunityfoundation.org/funds/community-wellbeing-andmental-health-fund.

Join the summer reading challenge

Sitting in the shade reading a good book sounds like a great way to enjoy peaceful summer days.

The Reading Agency, in partnership with local libraries and powered by Universal Music UK, has launched the Summer Reading Challenge 2026.

Books are free to borrow from your local library.

The 2026 theme, Read to the Beat, celebrates the joy of music and the power it has to move, inspire, and connect us all through the magic of reading.

Cllr Ben Wilson, Dorset Council Cabinet member for Transformation, Customer & Workforce, said: “It’s a brilliant way to combine a love of reading while encouraging young minds to explore the connection between stories, rhythm and creativity.

“Libraries across Dorset will

have a range of free activities for families throughout the summer.”

Last year, over 11 million books were borrowed from libraries during the Summer Reading Challenge, including audio and e-books.

Read to the Beat will take place in libraries until Saturday 12 September.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Chapel conversion

Dorset Council has received an application for the conversion of the chapel building on land at 182–188 Wimborne Road West and 1 Wyelands Avenue, Canford Bottom into a residential dwelling. The application also includes the erection of additional new homes on the site.

Council grant

West Moors Town Council has awarded a grant of £750 to assist with the running costs of Dial-aRide operating in the area.

Domestic abuse

People experiencing domestic abuse in Hampshire can contact the Hampshire Domestic Abuse Partnership by calling their advice line on 0330 0165 112. In an emergency, always call 999.

ringwood news

Local campsite celebrates Pride

The owners of a campsite near Ringwood said they had been “bowled over” by the success of its first ever Pride Weekend, which drew over 200 guests to the New Forest site.

The entertainment offerings at Back of Beyond camping and glamping park are usually focused on live music and quizzes.

“But this year, encouraged by a couple of members of our staff, we decided to hold a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, and as always to make it a free event for all our park guests,” said owner Victoria Bowrey.

“We laid on three days of fabulous entertainment,

social get-togethers and music which brought in both local people and guests from hundreds of miles away.

“The highlight had to be one of Britain’s bestknown drag queens, Miss Tiffany Wells, who provided gales of laughter and an amazing cabaret based on West End show numbers.

“Overall, it was a great opportunity to celebrate inclusivity, and to underline our commitment to making everyone feel welcome while staying at Back of Beyond.”

Bowrey added that the campsite has taken the unusual step of scheduling a repeat event in response to the demand the Pride event created.

Pride is celebrated throughout June to

commemorate the Stonewall riots, a series of protests in the US in 1969 that led to a global campaign against homophobia and in support of equal rights for gay people.

Get your engines ready for new car show

Following the disappointing cancellation of the Ringwood Pedal Car Grand Prix, Ringwood & District Round Table have organised an alternative event geared towards motorheads.

On Sunday 30 August, the inaugural Ringwood Motor Show will take place on Carvers Recreation Ground from 10am–4pm. The event will showcase vehicles of all shapes and sizes, from classic cars to modern machines, tractors and supercars.

As well as cars galore, there will be food, drinks and more things to do for the whole family.

Best of all, this is a free event for visitors — though the Round Table have said donations would be appreciated. Proceeds will go towards local causes.

A spokesperson for the Round Table said: “Whether you’re a petrolhead, a family looking for a great day out, or simply want to support a brilliant local cause, this is

an event not to be missed. From gleaming classics to vintage rarities, come and enjoy a fantastic day in the heart of Ringwood — all while helping us raise vital funds for local charities.”

The owners of classic, vintage and interesting vehicles are invited to showcase their pride and joy at the show. Entry is just £5 per vehicle. To register your interest, visit the website: ringwoodroundtable.co.uk/ ringwood-motor-show.

New bus shelter for Ringwood

Ringwood’s Gorley Road bus stop now has a larger shelter offering improved protection from the weather, upgraded seating, and enhanced accessibility.

Funded by New Forest District Council’s Community Infrastructure Levy Local Infrastructure Fund, it replaces the previous shelter.

The bus stop is regularly used by local residents, including those travelling on the popular Ringo circular routes.

Ringwood Town Council said it would like to thank New Forest District Council for its

support through the CIL Local Infrastructure Fund, which has made this project possible.

How to cope with a heatwave

After the heatwaves in May and June, it’s fair to assume that the weather in July and August will remain very hot

With summer temperatures rising, it’s important to be aware of the risks; last year, there were an estimated 1,504 heat-related deaths. To stay safe, here is some advice from the NHS:

Who is most at risk?

Older people aged 65 and over, and young children and babies, are vulnerable to high temperatures. People with serious long-term health conditions, who live alone, are homeless, or work outside doing manual labour are also more at risk. Also, certain medications

may make the person taking them more likely to be badly affected by hot weather. Signs to watch out for People suffering from heat exhaustion are likely to show symptoms including tiredness, dizziness, headaches, feeling sick or irritable, and excessive sweating or pale and clammy skin. They may also feel cramp in their arms, legs and stomach, be very thirsty, have a high temperature, and may vomit.

Someone with heat exhaustion needs to be cooled down and given fluids. Meanwhile, symptoms of heatstroke include a very high temperature, hot skin without sweating, fast breathing and a fast heartbeat, confusion and restlessness. A person with heatstroke may have a seizure or fall unconscious.

Heatstroke is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical help.

Tips for staying cool

Stay out of the heat if you can. If you do go outside, stick to shaded areas, put on suncream, and wear a hat and light clothing. Avoid exercise or activities

that will make you hotter.

Have regular cold drinks. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate you. A cold shower or putting cool water on your skin or clothes can also help. Putting your wrists or ankles under running water from a tap can help to cool your body quickly, as can putting a wet cloth on

your neck or forehead. Keep your house cool. During the daytime, keep windows shut and curtains closed. In the evening, when the temperature outside has cooled down, open windows and doors to allow air to flow through the house.

Electric fans can help you feel cooler by creating a flow of air. You could consider buying an air conditioning unit: you can get a freestanding unit for around £300 from retailers like B&Q. These units actually cool a room down by pumping heat out of your home and reducing humidity.

What to do if someone has heat exhaustion

The NHS advises you to move the person to a cool place, then remove all unnecessary clothing, like jackets and socks. Give them plenty of water to drink; an isotonic sports drink or oral rehydration powder that you mix with water can also help, as these replace the salt lost through sweating. Finally, cool their skin by using a spray, a fan or cool water. Cold ice packs wrapped in a cloth can be placed under the armpits or on the neck to help them cool down.

Charity of the Year

Blake’s smile says it all

Blake is a smiley, sociable eight-year-old who has mastered the art of communicating with her eyes. She loves music with a strong drumbeat, being tickled and watching the world go by.

Blake also has an extremely rare genetic condition called HNRNPH2, which affects her mobility and speech. She uses a wheelchair and needs medication for epilepsy.

For parents Amber and Mark, getting a diagnosis took years of uncertainty, tests and unanswered questions. By the time Blake was five, the family were exhausted. Alongside caring for Blake’s complex medical needs, they were also supporting their other daughters, Olivia and Bella, with very little wider help. Amber and Mark had both changed jobs to make family life manageable, but the pressure was immense. Then they were introduced

to Julia’s House. Like many families, Amber and Mark weren’t sure that a hospice was right for them. The word ‘hospice’ carries a weight that felt at odds with where they were: caring for an energetic, joyful eight-year-old. They weren’t sure what to expect.

But when they saw what Julia’s House was offering, they didn’t look back. What they found was expert, tailored support that helps the whole family. Staff took time to understand Blake’s medical needs, equipment, routines and personality, helping her enjoy music, sensory play, baking and garden time at the hospice. Just as importantly, Julia’s House gives Amber

and Mark valuable respite, support at home, and time to focus on Bella, while sibling activities and parent events help the family feel less alone.

But what Amber and Mark hadn’t anticipated was what Julia’s House has brought out of Blake. Mark said: “She didn’t used to reach for toys, and now she pulls her duvet to bring things closer to her. They’ve encouraged her by exposing her to new experiences.”

Julia’s House has helped expand what the family thought was possible. Blake is currently learning to use Eye Gaze technology at school

so she can communicate more independently.

Mark said Blake now talks to the world in her own way, while Amber described Julia’s House as a “light at the end of what can be a very long month”. Their message to other families is simple: don’t be put off by the word hospice. For them, saying yes to Julia’s House has meant laughter, friendship, new experiences and the chance to move forward together. To support Julia’s House, visit the website: juliashouse. org/donation.

20 years of ‘blooming

marvellous’ care

A Dorset care home marked its 20th anniversary in June.

Colten Care’s Amberwood House in Ferndown began its ‘anniversary season’ with four days of creative, flowerthemed activities. ‘Amberwood in Bloom’ featured floral displays, craft sessions, flower crown making, pressed flowers and the decorating of planters in its newly upgraded garden.

Companionship Team Leader Madeleine Baker said: “We were inspired by this

year’s Chelsea Flower Show to hold our very own Amberwood in Bloom-type activities. “Residents created beautiful floral arrangements and enjoyed a variety of flower crafts. It has been blooming marvellous!”

Amberwood House is one of seven Colten Care homes to be rated Outstanding by care sector regulator the Care Quality Commission. For more information, visit the website: coltencare.co.uk.

The best fest in the South West

Excitement is building for this year’s Fordingbridge Park Fest Event, taking place on Saturday 18 July from 12pm to 5pm at the Fordingbridge Recreation Ground

The organisers have unveiled a packed timetable of live performances, arena attractions, and family entertainment.

The free community festival will celebrate sports, arts and culture, bringing together local performers, community groups, sports clubs, independent traders, artists and food vendors for an afternoon of summer fun.

Alongside the scheduled performances, visitors can also enjoy free activities including

climbing wall sessions and archery, as well as live skate park demonstrations and a graffiti artist showcasing creative street art throughout the day.

Community favourites will also return, including the Rotary Club’s infamous duck race and raft race, with tickets available to purchase on the day. Up to 3,500 ducks will race downstream in the main event at 3pm, with the winning duck carrying a prize of £500. All proceeds from the duck

race will go to local charities. Fordingbridge Turks and Fordingbridge Rugby Club will also host a variety of sports-themed activities and competitions, including a tug of war challenge.

With free entry and

entertainment for all ages, Fordingbridge Park Fest promises to be a fantastic celebration of community spirit and one of the standout events of the local summer calendar.

Come along, bring a picnic and enjoy!

Summer in Fordingbridge

Summer sorted

By Luke Graham

Fordingbridge Park Fest isn’t the only thing to do in town this summer

Looking for fun family trips, date night ideas, or jolly things to do this summer? Then pay a visit to Fordingbridge. Step back in time

The town is steeped in history, and a great way to explore it all in one go is to pay a visit to Fordingbridge Museum, open 11am–4pm Monday to Saturday. Displays include how the town looked during the Victorian period, what it was like living through the Second World War, and the life of Augustus John, the renowned artist who spent his later years in the town.

Nearby, you have Rockbourne Roman Villa, where you can walk among the remains of the largest known villa complex in the area, with preserved mosaics and part of a Roman underfloor heating system.

You can also pay a visit to Breamore House, an Elizabethan mansion completed in 1583, situated on a large estate with a forest and grass parkland. Go to breamorehouse.com to book tickets and see what events are on.

And make a note in your diaries for the Steam & Vintage Fest on 28–30 August, where there will be displays of heavy horses, classic cars, giant steam engines and more, plus a full programme of live music. The event takes place on Fryern Court Road. Stop for a bite

Fordingbridge is filled with great places to eat and drink.

You can enjoy coffee and cake at Bridges Café on the High Street, or visit The Ship Inn, a traditional English inn serving great pub food alongside cask-conditioned ales and continental beers. It even has a beer garden where you can soak up the summer sun with a fresh pint or delicious soft drink.

For a meal with a view, head to the Riverside Café. Its tea garden is right beside the picturesque River Avon, and the café offers a full breakfast and lunchtime menu.

Education, entertainment and fitness Looking to learn something new this

summer? Avonway Community Centre in Bartons Road has a jam-packed schedule of classes run by local groups and instructors. Learn the guitar, practise bridge, take up art, or improve your fitness with yoga, pilates, dance or balance classes. To find out what’s on, visit hallbookingonline.com/avonway.

Meanwhile, The Regal Cinema on Shaftesbury Street offers regular entertainment in a beautiful Art Deco building. Catch the latest movie releases, classic films, and recordings of live theatre, ballet and opera. Head to theregalcinema.org for the full listings.

And if you need to keep the kids entertained, Blunts Barn offers unforgettable summer activities for children aged five to 14 years old. Learn more at bluntsbarn.com.

Cool off

Finally, if the summer heat is getting to you, why not head to the floating inflatable aqua parks at New Forest Water Park for a wet and wild day out?

A local find with a national story

By Julian Hewitt | Fordingbridge Museum

Readers with a good memory will remember that I wrote, in a recent article, an account of a gravestone found in the 1980s during an archaeological dig on the site of the demolished Greyhound Pub between Salisbury Street and Bridge Street in Fordingbridge.

The dig revealed that there was an extensive tanning and leatherworking industry on the site. Next to a brick-built building, a bricklined well was discovered, and this was capped by a broken gravestone. The stone commemorated Robert Standfield, who was father and grandfather to two of the Tolpuddle Martyrs. These were his son, Thomas Standfield, and his grandchild, John Standfield. Robert Standfield was married to Elizabeth (Betty) Baker and died in January 1832. The gravestone was probably made locally but was broken in the manufacturing process and was recycled to cap the well. The grave of Robert Standfield can be found — with a complete headstone — in a churchyard in Verwood.

Extraordinarily, Fordingbridge Museum has

kindly been offered the locally found gravestone by Phil Harding of Wessex Archaeology (who readers may recognise from the Channel 4 series ‘Time Team’). The museum was very keen to accept the offer and was pleasantly surprised when Phil delivered it personally.

The Tolpuddle Martyrs were from Tolpuddle in Dorset. They were six agricultural workers who got together in 1834 to form a Friendly Society

of Agricultural Labourers to protest about their starvation wages of seven shillings a week. Although trade unions were legal, the men were prosecuted under a law that prohibited unlawful oaths.

The magistrates were local landowners, and the jury were fearful for their livelihoods. The magistrates, having put words into the mouths of witnesses, found the six men guilty and sentenced them to seven years’ transportation. They were taken in chains to prison hulks in Portsmouth. They stopped on the way at the New Inn coaching house in Wimborne Minster, now the Albion Hotel.

The Standfields were later transferred to the convict ship ‘Surrey’ and began the 111-day journey to Australia.

John Standfield was placed on a sheep farm with a sympathetic owner, but his father, Thomas, was placed on a farm three miles away with a harsh owner. Thomas had to look after 600 sheep in the searing heat and then walk five miles home for a meal of salt beef and biscuits. He would be punished if any sheep were lost. John describes his father as being “covered in sores from head to foot and as weak

and helpless as a child.”

In Britain, there were protests about the sentencing of the men, and an 800,000-signature petition was sent to Parliament demanding their pardon. They were pardoned in March 1836 and returned to England between 1837 and 1839. Collections were made to buy them sevenyear leases on farms in Essex. At the end of the lease, John Standfield went to Canada, and his father joined him there shortly afterwards. In Canada, they built a home called Dorset Hall and owned two large farms. John kept a local hotel, became a shop owner, the postmaster and later became the mayor of the East London Township. Thomas Standfield died in 1864 at the age of 74.

Robert Standfield’s gravestone is now on display in the museum and is special in that it is part of the history of Fordingbridge, as well as being part of a broader national history. It should also make us think about the moral and social standards of the early 19th century and the lives of ordinary people who often lived a challenging and precarious existence.

Fly-tipping is not a victimless crime

By David Sidwick | Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner

One issue that continues to blight areas across BCP and Dorset is fly-tipping. What some may dismiss as discarded rubbish is a serious crime. It damages the environment, harms wildlife, places financial burdens on farmers and landowners, and undermines confidence in public services and rural policing. Across Dorset and the wider country, waste crime has become an increasingly significant threat to those who live and work in rural areas.

That is why I recently launched a campaign aimed at tackling the illegal dumping of green waste. The timing is deliberate, as many residents begin summer garden clearances. Led by the Dorset Partnership Against Rural Crime (DPARC), which my office established, the campaign brings together partners including Dorset Police, the Environment Agency, Dorset Council, BCP Council and Forestry England to encourage residents and contractors to dispose of garden waste responsibly. This campaign is targeted at the whole county, as we know these problems are not just confined to traditionally rural areas.

Fly-tipping of grass cuttings, hedge trimmings, branches and other garden waste can damage habitats, block rural roads and gateways, increase fire risks, and place a significant burden on landowners and taxpayers. It is important that we all take responsibility for disposing of waste correctly and understand the options available to us.

Alongside this campaign, I welcomed a new report from the National Rural Crime Network (NRCN) examining fly-tipping and how it can be tackled more effectively. As a board member of the NRCN, I know this report reinforces what rural communities have been telling us for years: fly-tipping is not a victimless offence. It is often linked to organised criminality, with offenders exploiting weak enforcement and fragmented reporting systems to generate

Be wildlife friendly this summer

Residents in the New Forest are being urged to embrace wildlifefriendly gardening this summer.

A local conservation organisation says simple actions such as creating a small pond, leaving areas of grass uncut, planting pollinator-friendly flowers or keeping deadwood piles can provide vital food, water and shelter for wildlife across the Forest.

The New Forest Biodiversity Forum says that private gardens collectively have huge potential to support nature recovery in one of Europe’s most important landscapes for wildlife. The spillover effect from the protected core of the Forest means that even relatively small gardens have the potential to host thousands of species. Declining species such as hedgehogs are more frequently encountered in suburban gardens and green spaces than in the open Forest.

Professor Russell Wynn, chairman of the New Forest Biodiversity Forum, said: “Wildlife does not recognise boundaries. Gardens and green spaces in New Forest towns and villages can play an important role in supporting nature recovery in our region.

“Simple low-cost actions such as creating a pond, planting flowers for pollinators, or leaving part of a lawn unmown can create valuable habitats for species that are increasingly under pressure, while also contributing to the mental and physical wellbeing of garden owners.”

profits while leaving others to deal with the consequences.

The report calls for stronger regulation of waste carriers, improved intelligence-sharing between agencies, more effective enforcement, and a coordinated national response. I strongly support these recommendations. Communities across Dorset and BCP deserve to know that waste crime is being treated with the seriousness it warrants and that offenders will face meaningful consequences.

This work has been under way across Dorset for some time. Last year, I submitted evidence to the House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee’s inquiry into serious and organised waste crime. In that evidence, I highlighted the impact waste crime is having on rural communities, the work being undertaken in Dorset, and the growing links between waste offending and organised criminal networks. I also argued for tougher sanctions against repeat offenders, improved national intelligence capabilities and greater support for victims who are too often left to shoulder the cost of clearing illegally dumped waste.

And it is also important to highlight the practical action being taken. Through funding from my office, Dorset Council has maintained a dedicated fly-tipping enforcement officer, and the results are encouraging. During 2025, the council issued 80 Fixed Penalty Notices for wasterelated offences, almost double the number issued the previous year, including 33 specifically for fly-tipping.

Dorset’s countryside is one of our greatest assets. By working together, reporting offences and supporting stronger enforcement, we can help ensure our rural communities remain safe, resilient and protected for future generations.

A special thanks to Burley’s Home Care for sponsoring puzzle zone

Here’s how to solve Codeword. Every letter of the alphabet has been replaced by a number. All you have to do is decide which letter is represented by which number.

To start you off, we reveal the code for four letters.

To solve Sudoku, you need to fill the grid so that each row, column, and three-by-three box of cells contains the digits 1 through 9, without repetition.

Start by looking for rows, columns, or boxes that are almost complete, and fill in the missing numbers. Then use a process of elimination to look for the only possible cell within a row, column, or box where a number can fit.

A great spot for a walk or bike ride

Enjoy a day out at Canford Heath this summer

We can all be guilty of ignoring places to visit on our doorstep — and one of these is Canford Heath, which offers a free day out.

At 344 hectares, it is the biggest area of urban heathland in Dorset, and the largest lowland urban heath in the United Kingdom.

Visitors can spend hours exploring the heath’s paths and bridleways and looking out for rare animals, including dragonflies, damselflies, Dartford warblers and nightjars.

The Site of Special Scientific Interest is also home to each of the UK’s native reptiles: grass snakes, adders, smooth snakes, slow worms, common lizards and sand lizards.

Dogs must be kept on leads during the bird breeding season (1 March to 31 July), as some of the country’s rarest birds nest on the ground.

Visitors must also stick to designated footpaths and trails, and they must take their litter home. Cyclists should stick to the network of bridleways.

Fires and barbecues are strictly forbidden because of the risk of wildfires.

Former King’s Singer, choral director and composer, Jeremy Jackman, returns to Dorset this August to lead the choir Laudemus, showcasing music for the service of Choral Evensong.

Taking its name from Latin for ‘Let us praise!’ and singing in venues across the county, the group has its roots in the Wimborne Arts Festival of 1991. The choir has returned each year since then to bring cathedral-style Evensong to country churches across Dorset.

Operating as an annual summer course, singers come from all over the UK and some from overseas. The repertoire is wide ranging, with different music for each service on the tour.

This summer, Laudemus will visit churches in Broadstone (11 August), Lyme Regis (12 August), Trent (13 August), Blandford Forum (14 August) and the Minster in Wimborne (15 August).

The choir is accompanied for the week by Dorset-born organist Sam Hanson, who pursues a busy freelance career as conductor, accompanist and composer in both Dorset and London.

Family fun in Littledown Laudemus returns to Dorset

There’s a free community event on Sunday 26 July as the 11th Littledown Family Fun Day takes place from 11am–4pm.

Visitors to Littledown Park can look forward to a wide range of experiences, including funfair rides, magic shows, live music, a free virtual reality experience, and the chance to encounter more than 50 costumed characters roaming the park, as well as stiltwalking fairies, circus skills performers, and a magical mermaid.

Littledown’s play park and paddling pool will also be open, while pop-up stalls will be selling food and drinks. For updates, visit the Littledown Family Fun Day 2026 Facebook page.

REVIEW Shrek the Musical Wimborne Musical Theatre Society, Tivoli Theatre

By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk

What a challenge — to assemble a huge cast and to ensure that they are all in the right place on the stage at the right time. It is a big ask for any director, but Duncan Trew cracked it in this funny, feel-good story of the grumpy yet kind-hearted ogre looking for love.

There were seven main cast members, 21 other senior actors, plus two teams of nine alternating junior cast members, not to mention all the numerous creatives behind the scenes of this production.

On the opening night, the audience was cool in this air-conditioned theatre, and although most of the cast wore complicated and very thick outfits — there was no sign of any discomfort in their performances.

If this company thought it was a gamble, it certainly paid off in spades. Hugely enjoyable was the murmur from people as they left the theatre.

Clearly it isn’t possible to mention everyone, so I will just highlight the seven main characters.

Making his debut with WMTS was Jack Hosking-Ellis as Shrek, who had the ambition to play the character since the age of four. It was a commanding performance which reached new heights in the second half of the show.

Selina Rumbold made a delightful Princess Fiona with a voice as clear as a bell, whilst Jemma Cable provided much fun as the hoarse-voiced Pinocchio.

How David Swain managed to keep his cool in his donkey costume was amazing, as were his antics. Oh so lovable, he provided lots of humour.

What can I say about Alan Colclough as the diminutive Lord Farquaad? This must have been one of the most challenging parts in his long career, as his costume required him to move around on his knees, with false short legs — you had to see it to believe it.

A consummate professional, Alan can turn his talents to such a huge variety of parts, and he also has a very good singing

voice to add to his acting ability. He was funny and menacing in equal measure.

And then we had two excellent voices from Lauren Ferger-Andrews as Gingy and Charlotte Squibb as the Dragon.

The junior cast members on the first night, particularly the young and teen Fionas, were so accomplished.

I know readers will be looking for a mention of our editor Luke Graham

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— this is the first time I’ve reviewed a production featuring a member of staff. All I will say is that he and all the other 20 cast members with smaller parts acted their socks off with every appearance.

So much energy from everyone with brilliant, over-the-top costumes – wow! WMTS’s next production is a concert titled ‘The Magic Behind the Curtain’ on Saturday 14 November at the Allendale Centre.

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Events

Details were correct at the time of going to print. Send information about your events to newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk.

15 July 7.30pm

Merley Townswomen’s Guild meets at the Community Hall, Harrier Drive, Merley.

17–19 July

Christchurch Music Festival at Christchurch Quay. For details, visit christchurchmusicfestival.com.

18 July 12noon–5pm

Fordingbridge Park Fest on Fordingbridge Recreation Ground. Free event with live performances, arena attractions and family entertainment.

18 July 2.30pm

Concert in aid of local cancer charities at St Martin’s Church, 2 Moorlands Road, West Moors. Tickets from Brewer and Brewer or talksbychristopher.co.uk.

18 July 3pm

Duck race organised by Fordingbridge Rotary Club at Fordingbridge Recreation Ground. Up to 3,500 yellow ducks will race downstream, with the winning duck carrying a £500 prize. All proceeds go to local charities.

19 July 1pm

Garden Party at Brackenwood, God’s Blessing Lane, Holt, BH21 7DD in aid of Dorset Cancer Care and Dorset MS Centre.

20 July 12.30pm

Music for a Summer’s Day at Wimborne Minster Church.

Admission is free with a retiring collection in aid of Minster Funds.

21 July 10am

Moordown Townswomen’s Guild meets at Moordown Community Centre, Coronation Avenue.

24, 31 July and 7, 14, 21, 28 August 10pm

Fireworks display on Bournemouth Seafront, east of Bournemouth Pier.

25 July 10am–4pm

Christchurch River Pageant starting at Tuckton Tea Gardens and finishing at the Quay.

25, 26 July 11am–5pm

Mudeford Arts Festival on Mudeford Quay Green.

25 July–1 August

Swanage Regatta and Carnival. Firework displays on 25, 29 July and 1 August. Procession 26 July. More details on visitdorset.com/event/swanagecarnival/91049301/.

27 July 12.30pm

Brass in Harmony Quartet at Wimborne Minster Church.

Admission is free with a retiring collection in aid of Minster Funds.

28 July 7.30pm

West Parley Gardening Club meets at MS Centre, Church Lane, BH22 8TS for a talk on Wildlife of the New Forest by Brian Petit.

29 July–30 August

Debby Kirby exhibition at Walford Mill Crafts to mark her 40 years of weaving.

30 July–2 August

Camp Bestival at Lulworth Castle. Tickets via dorset.campvestival.net.

31 July–2 August

Poole Harbour Festival headlined by the Kaiser Chiefs at Baiter Park, BH15 1UY.

1 August 12noon–10pm Stompin’ on the Quomps on Christchurch Quay. Live smooth jazz.

1 August 2pm–4pm Ferndown Arthritis and Friendship Club meets at Ferndown Plus Day Centre. Call 03303 112793 for details.

3 August 7pm–9.30pm

Bournemouth Bluebird Jazz Club meets at Bluebird Social Club, 4 Ham Lane, Longham, BH22 9DP (opposite Haskins garden centre).

3 August 10.30am

Reading Friends meets at Wimborne Library.

5 August 10.30am–11.30am

Reading Friends: Reading Your Way at Ferndown Library.

6 August 7.30pm

Ferndown & District Historical Society meets at The Barrington Centre with a talk by Malcolm Angel on Paranormal Wimborne.

6, 13, 20, 27 August 7.30pm

Live music and family entertainment on Poole Quay, with fireworks at 10pm.

10 August 7pm for 7.30pm

Ferndown & West Moors Philatelic and Postcard Club meets at The Hamworthy Club, Magna Road, BH21 3AP. Call Paul Barry on 07932 581791 or email paulrichardbarry@hotmail.co.uk for programme details.

11 August 7.30pm

Verwood and District Horticultural Society meets at Verwood Memorial Hall. Details on verwoodhorticulturalsociety.co.uk or call Ollie on 07508 577114.

12 August 6.30pm–9pm

Bournemouth & District Jazz

Appreciation Society meet in Rm 1 downstairs at Kinson Community Centre. Access direct from car park. Full details on the website: bournemouthjazzclub.org.

12 August 7.30pm

Canford and Merley WI hosts a kurling evening at Merley Community Centre, Harrier Drive. For details, call Hazel on 07780 705702.

14–16 August

Christchurch Carnival on the Quay. Street Parade through the town on the Sunday.

Get closer to nature

-Advertisement feature-

Looking for an unforgettable experience?

Then visit Liberty’s Owl, Raptor and Reptile Centre this summer

Based near Ringwood, the centre offers the chance to see birds of prey in flight and learn more about all sorts of reptiles.

There is a play area for children and a gift shop full of souvenirs. Visit the Chilkat Café for food and drinks or bring your own picnic to enjoy while watching the flying displays. Your visit also supports the centre’s conservation work, including the rescue, rehabilitation and release of wild and injured birds of prey, and a breeding programme to support some of the planet’s most endangered species. To plan your next day trip, visit libertyscentre.com.

REVIEW Persephone, Queen of the Underworld Artemis Theatre Company, Allendale Centre Theatre

By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk

On a day when the temperature in Wimborne was as high if not higher than Greece, it seemed appropriate for this theatre company to stage this myth from ancient Greek mythology.

And what a powerful performance it was.

Telling the story of passion, loss and triumph, there was a little humour too provided in inimitable style by James Soulsby as the narrator and Hermes.

‘Persephone, Queen of the Underworld’ opened with a stylish interaction between Zeus, king of the gods, and the calmest of three brothers played by George Findlay, Hades, king of the underworld with a mastery of menacing energy from Charlie Hall, and Poseidon, god of the seas with more than a touch of swagger from Jack Davis.

As always, Julia Savill put in a mesmerising performance as Persephone’s mother

Demeter, with more than one spellbinding speech which would have resonated with every mum in the audience.

Bethany Knight filled the stage as Persephone, who ended up in the underworld as the bride of Hades.

Completing the main cast was Kym Cox in a dramatic sequence as Hecate and Shade.

Mention must also be made of the nymphs — Rachel Hudson, Kristy Young, Hannah Dudley, Kibibi Stevenson Richardson and Nila Beck — who, joined by Kym Cox and Jack Davis, had to go through so many emotions, from delight and joy to abject misery.

Directed and written by Christine Artemis, this was a thought-provoking production with stellar performances. If you would like to join the company, contact: info@ artemistheatre.com.

Celebrate 40 years of craft

-Advertiser’s announcement-

2026 marks 40 years since Walford Mill in Wimborne Minster first opened as a craft centre. This year also marks 30 years of delivering art and craft through the Walford Mill Education Trust.

Enter the grade II-listed building and you’ll find creativity around every ancient beam. The main building and gatehouse are home to the talented Makers Collective. Buy directly from the Makers and watch their creativity in action in their studios.

Throughout the year, there’s

an ever-changing programme of exhibitions from established artists, as well as pop-up shops from emerging new makers. Learn a new skill in our adult workshops, while kids will enjoy the popular after-school and school holiday art clubs. Save the date for a FREE party in the courtyard on Saturday 1 August from 12noon–6pm. Later in the year, visit their special anniversary exhibition which runs from 30 September until 1 November. For details, visit walfordmillcrafts.com.

Let’s get Rustic

By Louisa Hiscock, Verwood Rotary Club

The new Rotary year is now underway ,and this month everyone is focused on our upcoming RUSTIC FAYRE on 31 August (Bank Holiday Monday) at Potterne Park.

We are really looking forward to hosting this great family event in Verwood for the local community again. Entry prices will be held at just £7 for adults, and a special guest of honour to be announced will open this year’s fayre.

All the old favourites and new attractions will be there. This includes a variety of acts in the arena throughout the afternoon to sit and enjoy or take part in, including a display by BMX stunt riders.

You will also find a wide range of stalls, live musical performances, crafts, children’s activities, beer tent and food stalls. The popular classic vehicles display will be there for visitors to wander round, and later in the afternoon you can watch the hotly contested duck race set off. Don’t forget to buy your own duck to take part!

Please put the date in your diary and we will see you there for the Rustic Fayre 2026!

The risk of hot weather

We’ve already had some seriously hot weather and undoubtedly more is to come, so motorists need to be aware of how high temperatures can affect their driving.

James Luckhurst, head of Road Safety at GEM Motoring Assist said: “A heatwave can make a car journey much more demanding for everyone. Drivers get tired, irritable or less focused, while passengers and pets can become distressed very quickly if the vehicle is too hot.

“The danger is not just about comfort; high temperatures can affect concentration, increase fatigue and create conditions in which vulnerable passengers are at real risk. That’s why every journey in very hot weather needs more planning, more

observation and more care.”

A heatwave can affect drivers in five ways:

1. Hot conditions can make drivers feel sluggish, sleepy and less able to concentrate for long periods. This is especially risky in slow-moving traffic, on long motorway trips or at the end of a tiring day, when lapses in attention can have serious consequences.

2. Even mild dehydration can leave a driver with a headache, slower reactions and poorer decision-making. If a driver starts to feel faint, unwell or unable to focus properly, then continuing the journey becomes a safety risk.

3. Children, older people and anyone with underlying health conditions may struggle more

quickly in high temperatures. A hot, stuffy vehicle can lead to discomfort, dizziness or heat exhaustion, particularly if traffic delays mean a journey takes much longer than expected.

4. Dogs are vulnerable in hot vehicles, whether the car is moving slowly, stuck in traffic or parked in the sun. A pet left in a parked car, even for a short time, will become unwell and distressed very quickly as interior temperatures rise.

5. Heat can make journeys harder by increasing the likelihood of tyre problems, engine stress and breakdowns. If a vehicle stops in a live lane, on a busy road or in a remote location during very hot weather, then the safety risks for everyone inside can escalate quickly.

GEM recommends the following steps for anyone travelling during hot weather.

First, check your vehicle before setting off, including tyre condition, coolant level and windscreen washer fluid.

Carry plenty of drinking water for everyone in the vehicle, including pets where appropriate.

Plan longer journeys so you can take regular breaks in the shade or somewhere cool.

Use air conditioning sensibly, or keep the cabin well ventilated, so you stay alert and comfortable.

Never leave children, older passengers or pets alone in a parked vehicle, even for a few minutes.

Travel at cooler times of day where possible. Avoid setting out if you already feel tired or unwell.

If anyone in the car shows signs of heat exhaustion or distress, stop somewhere safe as soon as possible and get help if needed.

UK’s top road trip

Need an excuse to stay in your air-conditioned car and beat the heat, or simply looking for a fun summer road trip? Then take a drive along the Jurassic Coast.

The 95-mile route from Weymouth to Exmouth in East Devon, following the B3157, has been labelled as the UK’s most scenic road trip.

Based on research by the high-end retailer House of Bruar into the best UK road trips, using data from the RAC and social media, it was found that the Jurassic Coast route is highly popular with over 522,000 hashtags on Instagram.

The route goes past several of Dorset’s most prominent natural landmarks, including the towering limestone arch of Durdle Door, the perfectly

formed horseshoe shape of Lulworth Cove, and the iconic Chesil Beach — the perfect place to stop and try your luck at hunting for a fossil.

Along the way, you can visit charming villages like Abbotsbury, take in the breathtaking views from the top of Wears Hill, and see the golden cliffs of West Bay.

Other top road trips according to the research include the North Coast 500 in Scotland, Cheddar Gorge in Somerset, and Snake Pass in the Peak District. The full report can be found online at houseofbruar.com/the-8-bestuk-road-trips-for-summer.

What’s your favourite road trip route? Email luke@ dorsetview.co.uk with your ideas.

Driving with hay fever

The hay fever season can continue until November, so sufferers need to be aware of a few things before they get behind the wheel.

Road safety charity IAM RoadSmart has five tips for those with watery eyes, itchy noses and frequent sneezing.

1. Choose antihistamines wisely, as some can cause drowsiness.

2. Keep tissues or a handkerchief nearby to wipe watery eyes or runny noses. Use sunglasses to reduce irritation from pollen and glare.

3. Keep windows closed on high-pollen days and use air conditioning or the air recirculation mode to reduce pollen inside the car. However, ensure you change your filter when needed.

4. Hayfever may slow your reactions. Give yourself extra time to get to your destination safely.

5. If sneezing, itchy eyes, or congestion make it hard to focus, pull over safely and take a short break rather than risking driving while distracted.

Choosing a theme for your home

By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk

My grandparents bought their furniture when they were first married, and to my recollection the same items were still in situ at the end of their days

However, in the 21st century we have a different take on things, and it is good to give your home a new look — and it doesn’t have to cost too much either. A few updates can make all the difference.

So, let’s look at eight themes you might consider: 1. How about going Minimalist? You would have to clear away some clutter, but if you aim to have plenty of storage, the clean lines will make for easy living. Every piece of furniture must serve a clear purpose and unnecessary ornaments eliminated. As the designer and poet William Morris said: “Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.”

2. As a direct contrast to the above, people who love a profusion of colour could go for a Bohemian approach to décor. Think a free-spirited, relaxed aesthetic that mixes diverse cultures, patterns, and textures with natural elements. This approach could bring the outdoors in with lush houseplants and organic materials such as jute, rattan and raw wood. Woven baskets, macramé wall hangings, chunky knit blankets, and layered rugs could also feature.

3. In a similar vein, you could choose a Rustic theme. This would feature wood and natural fibres. Cosy sofas, plush armchairs and woolly rugs and blankets would add warmth. Celebrating natural organic beauty, this theme favours lived-in comfort over polished perfection. Palettes would incorporate creams, beiges, and muted browns to create a calm and inviting atmosphere.

4. The French Country theme gives you lots of choice. This blends rustic, down-to-earth farmhouse elements with elegantly refined French antiques. Warm creams, beiges, muted greens, gentle blues, and soft lavender are the colours to go for. And you can even update your present furniture to get ‘the look’ by using distressed or weathered paint finishes. It’s a blend of farmhouse and shabby chic.

5. Trawl antique, second-hand or charity shops and you can spot items to give your home the Art Deco feel. Chevrons, fan arches, petal-shaped wall sconces, and deep-hued wallpapers with repeating arcs and fan motifs can give your home a 1920s look.

6. An easier trend to go for is the Eclectic look. This gives you so much freedom as you can have mismatched mid-century furniture or antique armchairs. Bold and creative, there are no rules; just use diverse colours and perhaps zany wallpaper.

7. As we are now experiencing high temperatures in our summers, a Mediterranean theme should be a winner. This could involve establishing a seamless transition between your indoor living space and the garden. Shades to choose would be base colours

leaning into warm, sun-drenched terracottas, soft ochres, deep olive greens, and rich umbers. These would pair beautifully with natural, undyed linens for furniture or curtains.

8. In this magazine’s distribution area, we are never far from the sea, so a Coastal theme could work well. Use a palette of crisp whites, soft beiges, and oceanic blues. Flooring could be light, natural woods or limewashed floorboards topped with textured rugs made from seagrass, sisal or jute. Hang large mirrors strategically to reflect light and make your space feel larger and more open. Wall art could feature ocean tones, seascapes or vintage coastal photography.

COMPETITION WINNERS

Back in March’s issue of Viewpoint Magazine, we offered readers the chance to win two tickets to see ‘Abba Mia’ starring Kerry Katona at The Regent. The winner was Robbie Almond, who took his daughter Lucía to see the show.

Then in Viewpoint May, we gave away two tickets to see Wimborne Musical Theatre Society’s production of ‘Shrek the Musical’. The winner was Vanessa Corbin, who bought two extra tickets to take the whole family. We hope you enjoyed the show!

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