The Purbeck Gazette - Issue 363

How car crash changed Danielle’s life forever

A SWANAGE woman who survived a devastating car accident that claimed the life of her four-year-old daughter has written a memoir – and is giving every penny of the proceeds to charity.

Danielle Elm, who grew up and still lives in Swanage, has published Our Last Steps – a frank, funny and deeply moving account of her life before and after the accident in Wales in 2018.

Her daughter Darcy did not survive. Dani woke from a coma paralysed, unable to walk and facing a future she had never imagined.

But Our Last Steps is not a gloomy read. It takes readers from Dani’s childhood in Swanage – where she was Carnival Queen at 14 – through

Danielle Elm with husband Dan and daughter Darcy (also inset)

She writes of her Uncle Ash – born with an undeveloped arm, who never once complained about it – sitting by her hospital bedside telling her the Ninja Turtle stories he had told her as a child.

She credits those bedside visits with pulling her back.

“My life has been pretty grim, so I’m sure some people are better off than I am,” said Dani.

“But if I can do it, then other people can too. I’ve been at the bottom, and I don’t want anyone to get stuck down there.”

her years as an entertainment rep in Majorca, falling in love, marrying her husband Dan and the joy of Darcy’s birth. It is only when the accident comes that the reader understands what Dani has built, and what she has lost. What emerges from the wreckage is a story of extraordinary community and resilience.

Dani said: “I want to help people with spinal cord injuries. I struggled in the very beginning to find the answers, so now I have a written book with the answers I was trying to find, so the next person can benefit.”

Dani writes of the family, friends and neighbours who rallied around her.

Danielle is now looking forward to the future. She added: “Our life is no longer a tragedy, it has purpose.”

All proceeds from the book are being donated to two charities – 2Wish, which supports families who have lost a child suddenly and unexpectedly, and Swanage Carnival – a cause Dani’s family has been part of for generations. Our Last Steps by Danielle Elm is available on Amazon.

Beavers? It’s over to you

DORSET Wildlife Trust has launched a major public consultation to explore the potential for reintroducing wild beavers to parts of Dorset.

The consultation follows the licensed wild releases of beavers at Studland last year and this year in Cornwall and Somerset, as well as five years of monitoring at the trust’s enclosed beaver project on the River Hooke, where a pair of beavers were introduced in 2021.

Since their arrival, the beavers have transformed the site through natural behaviours such as coppicing and dam building.

Independent studies by University of Exeter, Wessex Water and other partnership organisations have shown that beaver activity can slow water flow, create diverse wetland habitats, boost biodiversity and help landscapes become more

resilient to drought and flooding.

Beavers are now recognised as a native species in England, and the UK Government has committed to supporting their return to suitable areas.

Dorset Wildlife Trust has submitted an expression of interest for a potential licensed wild release within the River Hooke and wider River Frome

catchment.

Over the coming months, the trust will be engaging with farmers, landowners, communities, partner organisations and the wider public through meetings, workshops, drop-ins and an online survey.

Three drop-in meetings will be held for members of the public to go along and learn about the potential benefits of wild beaver release.

These are on: Saturday, April 11, from 9am-3pm at Maiden Newton Village Hall; Saturday, April 18, from 9am-4pm at Dorchester Town Hall at the Corn Exchange; Saturday, May 2, from 9am4pm at Wareham Corn Exchange.

Steve Oliver, Dorset Wildlife Trust’s rivers conservation officer, said: “Our enclosed project has given us clear, science-based evidence of the

multiple benefits beavers can bring to Dorset’s rivers and wetlands.

“Wild beavers are already present in parts of the county, but any future releases in new locations must be shaped by the people who live and work here.

“This consultation is an opportunity for everyone to share their views, raise questions and help us understand what a future with wild beavers could look like for Dorset.”

The trust says no decisions have been made, and the consultation will play a central role in determining whether a full licence application is taken forward.

Members of the public can take part and share their views at dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/ BeaverSurvey

To find out more, visit dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/ BeaverConsultation

Everest challenge on a Dorset hill

ENDURANCE athlete Richard O’Connor has successfully completed an ‘Everesting’ challenge, climbing the equivalent of Mount Everest’s 8,848 metres on a local hill.

The former Royal Marine performed the gruelling 18-hour feat on the Obelisk stairs at Ulwell, which leads to Barrowdown, overlooking Swanage.

The effort served not only as a personal test of grit but as a major fundraising initiative for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

The challenge, dubbed the ‘MadMule Everesting Project’, saw Richard perform back-toback hill climbs through mist, drizzle and steep terrain.

He was bolstered by a significant turnout from the local community, with fellow athletes, runners and supporters joining for segments of the climb throughout the night and into the following afternoon.

“This wasn’t just about the elevation – it was about the power of choice and the

strength of our community,” said Richard, from Poole.

“When things got difficult, it was the support from the people around me – and the knowledge that we were raising vital funds

Village keeps up ancient tradition

LOCALS and visitors are being invited to step back in time at Wool Charter Fair.

The event will feature a variety of local groups showcasing traditional crafts and skills, and stalls from local traders and artisans.

The family-friendly fair aims to celebrate local history, creativity and community spirit. Home-baked treats, refreshments and ice cream will be available throughout the afternoon.

The fair’s origins date back to 1280 when King Edward I granted a Royal Charter to the monks and abbot of Bindon Abbey giving them permission to hold an annual market near Wool Manor each May. Wool Charter Fair is in Millennium Square, Wool, near the Catholic church, on Saturday, May 9, from noon to 5pm.

athletes and supporters rallying to contribute to the fundraising goal.

Even as temperatures dipped and physical fatigue set in around the 14-hour mark, Richard maintained his focus through disciplined nutrition and strategy, ultimately finishing in under 18 hours.

“Suffering is for those not in a position of choice,” added Richard.

“I choose these challenges to show that with preparation and a supportive community, we can push beyond our perceived limits.”

Richard O’Connor has a personal training and performance coaching business, ROC PT, and is a member of trail running group Madmule Trail.

for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance – that kept the engine running.”

The project gained considerable momentum in the lead-up to the event, with local

Donations for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance are still being accepted at www. justgiving.com/page/ madmuletrail-everestingdorset For more information on the MadMule Everesting Project, visit https://madmuletrail.com/ trail/f/everesting-dorset-the8848m-madmule-challenge

Beach clean dates along county coast

DORSET residents and visitors are being invited to roll up their sleeves and make a difference this Easter with the return of the Great Dorset Beach Clean.

The free event, organised by volunteer and community groups across the county, takes place across the Dorset coastline from April 1-12.

Last year’s event saw 297 volunteers take part, 17 beaches cleaned and 330kg of rubbish removed from the shoreline.

This year, organisers hope to make an even bigger impact.

A full list of beach clean locations, dates and times can be found at www. litterfreedorset.co.uk/greatdorset-beach-clean

All equipment will be

provided but participants are encouraged to bring their own gloves and wear suitable clothing for coastal conditions.

Individuals can also organise their own beach clean – email litterfreedorset@dorsetcouncil. gov.uk

Emma Jackson, Litter Free Dorset project support officer, said: “Beach cleans are a simple but powerful way for communities to come together to reduce marine litter and protect our beautiful coastline.

“Alongside the environmental benefits, volunteers also enjoy the social aspect, the boost to physical wellbeing and the chance to breathe in plenty of fresh sea air.”

IN PERSON: Lytchett Matravers Village Hall, Vineyard Close, Lytchett Matravers, BH16 6DD ONLINE: poolechristianscience.com

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Film festival launching 30th anniversary year

THE Purbeck Film Festival will celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2026, launching the milestone year with a special celebratory event at Encombe House.

The festival, founded to bring a rich mix of cinema to Purbeck, now screens films in distinctive venues across the region each October, while its popular Cinema Under the Stars series brings outdoor screenings to iconic locations including Corfe Castle and the Blue Pool.

Festival patron actor, playwright and theatre director Sir Mark Rylance described the event as ‘quite remarkable’.

He said that at a time when many cinemas and festivals

struggle to survive rapid technological change, small festivals like Purbeck are a ‘godsend for filmmakers’ that help nurture the human heart of

cinema.

The anniversary year will launch with a special afternoon tea at Encombe House on Saturday, May 16, where guests

will enjoy a garden stroll and entertainment from the Fingask Follies.

Andrea Etherington, chair of the Purbeck Film Festival, said: “Reaching 30 years is a wonderful moment for the festival and for everyone who has supported us along the way.

“We’re thrilled to begin our anniversary celebrations at Encombe House, one of Purbeck’s most beautiful settings.

“Our sincere thanks go to James and Arabella Gaggero for so generously opening their home to help us mark this special occasion.

“Special thanks are also extended to the Dick Odgers Memorial Trust whose generosity has made this event possible.”

More information and tickets are available via the Purbeck Film Festival website, www. purbeckfilm.com

Village plans variety of live entertainment

TWO talented young professional singers originally from the Isle of Purbeck performed in a concert held as the inaugural event for a new charity at St Peter’s Church, Church, Knowle.

Mezzo-soprano Miro Treharne and baritone Gabriel Fry offered to return to their roots and perform in the sell-out

Voices of Spring concert for Friends of St Peter’s.

The charity has been formed to raise funds to help maintain the fabric of the 800-year-old church.

The Friends plan to create CK LIVE, a new initiative to broaden the cultural experiences available in Church Knowle and Purbeck, through music and

East Burton Village Hall and Wool events – April

by Patricia Hook

AS well as all the usual activities, like yoga, kickboxing, Mad Melodies, fitness and boardgame afternoons, we have our monthly coffee and cake morning on Friday, April 10. This is always a very well attended event and everyone seems to have a lovely time chatting with friends, neighbours and meeting new people – as well as eating lots of lovely homemade cake.

Another really social event is the Gardening Club, which is meeting on Thursday, April 23, with photographer, David Boag, showing some of his portfolio of ‘The Wild Coast’. The meeting starts at 7.30pm and everyone is very welcome to go along.

A spring fair is being held at the hall on Sunday, April 26, between 11am-1pm. It will include craft stalls with items to purchase, a tombola and other interesting stands.

entertainment, while raising funds for St Peter’s.

CK LIVE promises a lively calendar of events, with something for everyone.

An eclectic programme of music, comedy, spoken word performances and more aims to create regular opportunities for neighbours, friends and visitors to gather, connect and enjoy top

Refreshments will be available including – as always – homemade cakes, tea and coffee. All funds will go to raising money towards provision of a Community Lifting Cushion.

The Wool Community Film showing on Friday, April 24, is The Glenn Miller Story. Doors open at 6.30pm and the film starts at 7pm. Entrance is £6 adults and £3 under-16s.

The D’Urberville Players are meeting as usual at the D’Urberville Hall on Tuesdays at 7.30pm and would love individuals to join them as they work on their new play, The

quality entertainment on their doorstep.

Events coming soon include a talk by historian and author Andy Boyd on The Destruction of Arctic Convoy PQ17 on Friday, April 24.

Tickets are available from www.ticketsource.co.uk/cklive or contact cklive@ churchknowle.com

Old People Are Revolting. It will be performed from June 4-6. As this is a comedy, everyone is enjoying rehearsals and looking forward to entertaining audiences.

The Friends of Wool Library are looking for new trustees and, if this is of interest, please email the chair of trustees, Judy Price, at Friends@ Woolcommunitylibrary.org

As always, if you would like information on any of these events, or have something you would like me to add, get in touch at patricia. hook125@gmail.com

Great turnout for awards evening

WAREHAM & District

Swimming Club celebrated the winners from the club’s Swimming Club Championships, announced the new club captains and presented special awards for achievements throughout the year at the annual awards evening.

Club chair Nick Salt said: “Our awards evening was the best yet. We are grateful to the British Legion in Wool for hosting, as we needed a larger venue due to numbers at the club increasing.

“This was the biggest event to date with more than 100 awards being presented.”

The club continues to have a junior committee which gives swimmers a voice.

They are keen to be involved in how events like the awards evening are organised, and this year created their own

certificates, produced a presentation on highlights of the swimming year and requested a disco, which was very popular with swimmers.

The club would like to thank all the local businesses which donated prizes for the raffle and tombola organised by the fundraising team – on the night these made a fantastic £618.

Nick Salt added: “Due to the hard work of the fundraising team and the kind people and

organisations who put forward funds, we have been able to purchase our new swimming blocks.

“These arrived in time for our recent Sprint Night, much to the delight of our coaches and swimmers.”

The new blocks will allow the club’s swimmers to practise using the equipment they encounter at county, regional and British competitions.

66 swimmers participated in

the Sprint Night where children swam in 25m and 50m of each of the four strokes.

All the children who took part were awarded a participation medal given by one of the parents.

The club says it is lucky to have so much support from parents and the local community.

The next assessment night for new members is on Sunday, April 26.

Government backs MEMO Portland with £20m funding

THE Government is giving £20 million to help fund MEMO Portland, a new visitor attraction set to boost tourism and create hundreds of jobs.

The project, inspired by the Eden Project in Cornwall, will be centred on the disused Bowers Quarry.

MEMO will tell the story of life on Earth through installations in the former stone tunnels and open air quarry.

It will also feature a ‘biodiversity beacon’ – its walls carved with the images of all species assessed as extinct in modern times.

The first stage of the project is scheduled to open in 2028.

MEMO Portland, which will also receive funding from Dorset Council, could attract 250,000 to 350,000 visitors a

year, and create nearly 100 direct jobs and up to 500 additional jobs in the area.

Lloyd Hatton, MP for South Dorset, said: “I’m thrilled that this Labour Government is backing the exciting MEMO Portland proposals with £20 million of new investment.

“This is great news for Weymouth and Portland.

“This means new visitors coming to both Weymouth and Portland, new well-paid jobs and apprenticeships for local people, and a big boost for hospitality businesses.

“After almost two years of banging the drum for MEMO Portland, we are now so much closer to delivering this project.

“When built, I firmly believe that MEMO Portland will help to transform our local economy

here in South Dorset.”

Councillor Nick Ireland, Leader of Dorset Council, said: “This investment marks a transformative moment for Portland, unlocking the potential of a world class visitor attraction that will celebrate biodiversity and Dorset’s unique geological heritage.”

MEMO, alongside Coastland College and industry partners, will also launch a stonemasonry training centre on Portland which will employ stonemasons and apprentices to support the construction of the beacon and community spaces.

Local master craftsman, and the driving force behind MEMO Portland, Sebastian Brooke, will lead the centre.

He said: “Reviving this art on the island and regenerating this incredible quarry has been a 10-year passion – and I’m thrilled that we now have the funding to kickstart this truly remarkable project.”

Dame Mary Marsh, chair of MEMO’s board of trustees, said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive this generous funding – our project will bring biodiversity to a global audience and help regenerate Portland.

“We are immensely grateful to the Government and Dorset Council for this vote of confidence and commitment of support.”

MEMO Portland is an education charity with a wide range of partners including Dorset Council, Albion Stone, the Churches Conservation Trust, Coastland College, Exeter, Nottingham Trent and Bournemouth universities, the Eden Project and the Natural History Museum.

MEMO Portland is now reaching out to other funders, philanthropists and charitable foundations to join the Government as founding partners.

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Panto in awards running

LIGHTHOUSE Poole’s in-house produced pantomime Dick Whittington has been nominated for Best Panto in this year’s UK Pantomime Awards.

And the show’s sound designer, Nico Menghini, has been nominated for Best Sound.

The UK Pantomime Association’s prestigious panto ‘Oscars’ are set to be announced in a ceremony at Wycombe Swan Theatre in High Wycombe next month.

“This is wonderful news –we are overjoyed,” said Lighthouse chief executive Elspeth McBain, the show’s producer.

“Pantomime is such a wonderful tradition and a real joy to create for our Lighthouse stage and our local audiences.

“It’s a complex production to put on and we are always

mindful of the impact it has, from very young children who may be coming into a theatre for the first time, to the older generation, and everyone in between.

Swanage Tidal & Solar Predictions April '26

Swanage Tidal & Solar Predictions April '26

Complied by the National Coastwatch Institution, Swanage from tidal data provided by the Channel Coast Observatory

“When you make something that is so much about and for our local community, it is a real honour for it to make such an

impact on a national level.

“We know how much our audiences enjoyed Dick Whittington, and the cast and company all had a wonderful time in Poole, so to be recognised in this way is just brilliant.

“Of course, we hope to win – but being nominated is recognition enough. Oh yes, it is…!”

Dick Whittington was the latest in a run of hit productions in recent years.

Like the smash hit Sleeping Beauty and UK Panto Award winners Aladdin and Cinderella, it was written and directed by CBeebies’ Chris Jarvis with production designer James Smith, musical director Adam Tuffrey and choreographer Daniel Donaldson Todd.

Invitation to try something new

TALKS, walks, crafts and more are on offer this spring and summer with East Dorset Heritage Trust in Wimborne.

18:05 20:31 06:28 19:52

07:06 12:00 19:17 06:32 19:49

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07:38 17:20 19:50 06:30 19:51

01:42 06:41 13:20 20:03 Neaps 06:23 19:56

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01:42 06:41 13:20 20:03 Neaps 06:23 19:56

A programme of talks includes Murder at Villa Madeira; A Ship, A Gate and a Country Estate; Married to the Mob?; and Auction Highs and Lows.

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Coach trips are on offer to Pennard House in Somerset and St Mary’s House in Sussex.

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04:02 09:17 16:18 21:39 New Moon 06:11 20:05 18-Apr 04:40 09:56 16:58 22:15 06:09 20:07 19-Apr 05:21 10:34 17:39 22:50 Springs 06:07 20:09

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03:25 08:39 15:40 21:03 06:13 20:04 17-Apr 04:02 09:17 16:18 21:39 New Moon 06:11 20:05 18-Apr 04:40 09:56 16:58 22:15 06:09 20:07 19-Apr 05:21 10:34 17:39 22:50 Springs 06:07 20:09

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Guided walks are available through the countryside of Wiltshire and north and east Dorset, as well as a guided walk around Poole Park and a Geology walk at Portland to discover the mysteries of Chesil Beach.

Craft activities include needle felting and crochet. There’s also pottery throwing courses and a painting course, all starting after Easter.

Other activities include Lino Print and Gel Print workshops,

Willow Weaving and Sea Glass Art – and Pipe Cleaner Lilies. Modern languages, such as Italian, French and Spanish, Creative Writing and Poetry or Literature Appreciation courses are also on offer, along with one-to-one IT sessions. For more information, email info@edht.org.uk, visit www. edht.org.uk or phone 01202 888992.

Santa run raises £1,500 for hospice

THE Great Santa Stour Fun Run, organised by Wimborne Rotary Club and held in December last year, raised £1,500 for local children’s hospice, Julia’s House.

The 200 runners took part in the event dressed in Santa suits. Charlie James, community fundraiser for Julia’s House, attended a Wimborne Rotary lunchtime meeting and spoke about the work carried out at the hospice, explained how its new premises in Wimborne are progressing and how its fundraising is always active and needed.

Rotary president Brian Dryden, who presented her with a cheque for £1,500, said: “We are pleased to have helped raise this amount for Julia’s House and I would thank all the runners for turning up to enable us to raise this impressive sum.

“I would also thank all the volunteers, including those from Julia’s House, Wimborne Football Club and our sponsors for making the event possible.”

Could care costs put your home at risk?

Could care costs put your home at risk?

Could Care Costs Put Your Home at Risk?

Could care costs put

Could care costs put

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A living trust may help protect your home and preserve your estate for your family.

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By placing your property into a trust, it can be ring-fenced, reducing exposure to care fees, creditor claims, or unexpected life events such as divorce. It can also help minimise inheritance tax, allowing more of your estate to pass to your loved ones.

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info@oakwoodwills.co.uk

Worried About What Worried About What

Worried About What Worried About What

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Jurassic Coast Challenge for hospital charity

FUNDRAISERS are being invited to walk, jog or run the Jurassic Coast Challenge this spring in aid of the Dorset County Hospital (DCH) charity.

The charity is seeking to raise £30,000 to help fund a new ventilator for the new Emergency Department, currently under construction at the hospital.

Last year, fundraisers coined in £10,000 in the Jurassic Coast Challenge for the Emergency and Critical Care Appeal.

Participants ranged from members of staff from DCH, to community and corporate

teams and individuals.

The T-Rex team from Tilbury Douglas, who are constructing the new Emergency Department and Critical Care Unit, took part last year and raised £737 towards the Appeal.

Tilbury Douglas social value manager, Pheobe Gale, said: “Completing the Jurassic Ultra Challenge as part of the Tilbury TRex’s for the Emergency and Critical Care Appeal was a brilliant experience.

“The DCH Charity team were there to cheer us off in the morning, and having their support throughout kept moral

high, even up the steep coastline!

“I had the company of my colleagues and my dad, which made for a great team experience.

“I loved being able to challenge myself personally with the 62k route, all while enjoying our beautiful coastline and raising vital funds for the appeal.”

A variety of distances are available including 100km, 75km, 50km, 25km, a Weymouth Marathon distance and the 10K Bridport Loop.

Locations start in Corfe Castle to Bridport, and everything inbetween.

DCH Charity will refund the registration fee for anyone who raises more than £250 at least two weeks before the event takes place.

DCH Charity head of fundraising, Jodi Hibbard said: “It has never been more vital for us to fundraise for DCH than right now.

“The construction of the

new Emergency Department and Critical Care Unit is really starting to take shape, and equipment and facilities that go beyond the NHS budget will really make a positive difference to staff, patients and loved ones using these services at the hospital.

“DCH Charity is celebrating its 30th anniversary of fundraising to support staff and patients at DCH and we’d love to celebrate this huge milestone by reaching our £30,000 target to help pay for lifesaving equipment, such as a new ventilator.

“We are so grateful to all of our fundraisers and look forward to supporting those signing up to the Jurassic Coast Challenge this year.”

The Jurassic Coast Challenge is on May 16/17 –for more information on how to sign up, visit www. dchcharity.org.uk/get-involved/ events-and-challenges

Anyone with questions, can email charity@dchft.nhs.uk

M argaret Green Animal Rescue

SEARCHING for something fun to do this Easter?

Why not visit Margaret Green Animal Rescue’s Church Knowle centre in Dorset!

Situated on the beautiful Isle of Purbeck, near Wareham (BH20 5NQ), our centre is the perfect place for a day out –with light refreshments available to buy, picnic benches and plenty of free parking.

You can wander around,

meet some of our rescue animals and see first-hand how your support helps us to transform their lives.

We are open to visitors six days a week – closed Wednesdays – from 11am3pm. Entry is free, though donations towards our animals are always appreciated.

This Easter, we are also hosting tours, giving you the chance to learn more about our rescue animals and hear from

the staff who care for them.

The tours will run daily from 11.30am-12:30pm between Monday, March 30, and Saturday, April 11, (excluding Wednesdays and Sundays).

Tickets are £5 per person

and limited, so must be booked online in advance.

Children can also enjoy our Easter Trail for £2, with a small chocolate treat at the end. For more details and to book tour tickets, visit www.mgar. org.uk/events

Tiger 131: How world’s most famous tank came to be captured

THE first detailed account of the battle in which the world’s most famous tank, Tiger 131, was captured has finally been told.

Dale Oscroft has researched the Battle of Gueriat el Atach in April 1943, one of the most important actions in the fall of Tunisia and the Nazi surrender in North Africa.

During intense fighting, his father John fired his anti-tank PIAT weapon at the side of the feared Tiger tank, which was advancing on positions held by John’s battalion, the 2nd Sherwood Foresters. To his dismay, the projectile bounced off harmlessly.

Fearing the worst as the turret began to turn towards him, he was relieved to see the tank disabled by an armour piercing round which jammed the turret.

Abandoned by its crew, the tank proved to be a massive intelligence prize – it was the first time an intact Tiger had been captured in the West.

The story of the battle has never been told in detail, but now Dale’s book ‘Tiger 131: The Forgotten Battle’ is available.

It has been published by The Tank Museum in Dorset, where Tiger 131 – the world’s only working Tiger I – is on display.

The book is available from The Tank Museum shop and describes the astonishing fight to take the Tunisian ridge.

Dale said: “My father had mentioned an action in which the Foresters captured a Tiger tank in Tunisia after its turret had been jammed.

“But it was only when I was on holiday in Dorset in 2012

and saw Tiger 131 on a visit to The Tank Museum that I thought it might be connected.

“The Tiger had been captured in Tunisia after sustaining a jammed turret, but the account of the action placed it some 10 miles away from where the Foresters had fought.

“Subsequently, my research revealed the true circumstances of its capture, confirming it was indeed the same tank my father had tried to knock-out.

“Its capture following the lucky shell strike was so important that Prime Minister Winston Churchill and King George VI were pictured with the tank when they visited Tunisia following the Axis surrender.

“The Battle of Gueriat el Atach began on St George’s

Sgt John Oscroft, 2nd Btn Sherwood Foresters_ RTCH and (below)

Dale Oscroft’s book, Tiger 131: The Forgotten Battle

Day, Good Friday, in April 1943. The objective was a ridge with a number of peaks.

“It was one of the last battles in Tunisia and a key part in the final expulsion of the enemy.

“The Germans had the ridge well defended when the 1st British Infantry Division attacked it with six infantry battalions and five squadrons of tanks.

“On the first day, casualties were about 50% and on the second day over 30%. In total around 1,000 Allied soldiers were killed, wounded or missing. Almost 50 tanks were also lost.

“Not only was the ridge well defended by German infantry and tanks, but the latter included at least two Tiger tanks which were far more powerful

than anything we had.

“The terrain was difficult too, with rock just below the surface making the digging of trenches near impossible. There were also fields of crops in which the enemy hid, and the area was mined.

“Another issue the attackers faced was appalling radio communications which meant for much of the fighting over two days those managing the battle had little idea of what was going on.

“It fell to those doing the actual fighting to make life and death decisions and for many, like my father, it was their first taste of action. It took enormous courage and sacrifice to capture the ridge and the Germans too showed enormous bravery.

“The Foresters were attacking Point 174 – the highest point on the ridge – and it was there that Tiger 131 came within five yards of their positions. After my father’s PIAT had failed to knock out the tank it all looked grim.

“Desperately, a number of Foresters turned around an anti-tank gun which they had captured in the fighting and they fired it at the Tiger just as a number of tanks supporting the attack also opened fire.

“A shot from either a British tank or the Foresters sent a shell ricocheting down the underside of the Tiger’s gun barrel to wedge itself in the traversing mechanism, disabling the turret.

“It was a significant moment in the battle and in the North African campaign. The ridge was captured and, having been pushed off what was basically their last line of defence, the Axis forces in Tunisia

surrendered a few weeks afterwards.

“My account of the battle for the ridge draws on the recollections of the men who fought there and the narrative describes the fighting from their perspective.”

The units which took part in the battle were the 6th Gordon Highlanders, 1st Loyal Regiment, 2nd North Staffordshires, 1st Duke of Wellington’s, 142 and 145 Royal Armoured Corps, 48 Royal Tank Regiment, 1st King’s Shropshire Light Infantry and the 2nd Sherwood Foresters.

A Victoria Cross was awarded to Lt Willward Sandys-Clarke of the 1st Loyals, and six DSOs, 12 Military Crosses, two DSMs and 20 Military Medals were also awarded.

The Tank Museum senior historian Stuart Wheeler said: “The story of Tiger 131 has changed over the years as more details were discovered.

“Dale, with meticulous research, has now contextualised the capture of this tank, which is the most famous in the world. He has shown the importance of the engagement in the battle for Tunisia.”

After the fall of Tunisia, John Oscroft went on to serve with the Foresters in Italy. There, he participated in the intense fighting for the Anzio beachhead after which he fought from Rome to the Gothic line in the Apennine Mountains where he was frostbitten.

In January 1945, John and the Foresters were moved to Palestine, the battalion having by then sustained 200% casualties during its war service.

After being demobbed in 1946 he returned to his job in a hosiery factory in Sutton in Ashfield, married Violet, had son Dale and died aged 59 in 1982.

Tiger 131: The Forgotten Battle is available exclusively from The Tank Museum Shop for £12.99. Visit tankmuseumshop.org.

10 years of motor show

ONE of Dorset’s most anticipated motoring events will be back for a landmark year when the Dorset Blind Association Motor Show returns to Lulworth Castle.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the event, which brings together car enthusiasts, families and the local community in support of blind and partially sighted people across Dorset.

The 2026 show promises a variety of vehicles from classic and modern cars to sports, performance and supercars.

The showground will open to the public free of charge on Sunday, May 17, at 10.30am, offering a family day out with live music, children’s entertainment, food and drink vendors, and artisan traders.

Car owners are invited to

usually £9.

Exhibiting vehicle entries must be pre-registered – entries will not be accepted on the day. Every vehicle registration helps DBA continue to provide practical and emotional support to more than 1,000 blind and partially sighted people across Dorset.

Funds raised help combat loneliness, improve independence and offer community opportunities for those living with sight loss.

display their vehicles in the Castle Showground, but registration is essential and spaces are filling up fast. Registration is £17 per person, which includes a breakfast roll and hot drink, plus entry to Lulworth Castle –

Hardy’s and Lawrence’s homes open to visitors

VISITORS can immerse themselves in Dorset’s rich literary and cultural heritage with the reopening of the historic homes of Thomas Hardy and TE Lawrence.

Hardy’s Cottage, the birthplace of author and poet Thomas Hardy, and Max Gate, the home he designed and lived in – and Clouds Hill, the rural retreat of British Army officer, archaeologist, diplomat and writer TE Lawrence have all been freshly restored after winter conservation work.

Visitors will be welcomed with introductory talks from knowledgeable volunteers and invited to explore the rooms, gardens and personal stories behind these two towering figures of English literature.

At Hardy’s Cottage and Max Gate, visitors will also find seasonal floral displays created by Dorchester Floral Group and Owermoigne Flower Club. Featuring spring blooms including Hardy’s favourite flower – the daffodil – the

displays pay tribute to the inspiration he drew from the gardens and countryside around him.

To coincide with these reopenings, the National Trust is launching Footsteps Through Time, a free season-long programme of guided walks running until October.

The programme invites visitors to explore the places, paths and viewpoints that shaped Hardy’s imagination and Lawrence’s extraordinary life.

Each of the four walks offers a different way into their stories, led by guides who combine local insight with their passion for the county’s literary heritage.

Liz Flight, senior visitor experience officer for the National Trust in West Dorset, said: “We’re really excited to offer even more opportunities for people to get outside and discover Dorset’s stories on foot.

“It’s a lovely way to connect with nature, learn something

To book a car space visit www.DBAMotorShow2026. eventbrite.co.uk

For more information, contact DBA on 01202 712865 or email communityrelations@ dorsetblind.org.uk

Vehicle registration closes on Friday, April 10, or sooner if spaces fill.

new and explore the landscapes that shaped both men’s legacies – from Hardy’s childhood woodlands at Thorncombe Woods, to the route he often walked between Hardy’s Cottage and Max Gate, to the countryside tracks once shared with his beloved dog, Wessex.

“For Lawrence, a longer route from Moreton to Clouds Hill uncovers the key sites connected to his life and final days – from the church where his funeral was held to the site of the accident that led to his death.”

Walks vary in length and difficulty, take place on selected dates from spring to autumn, and form part of the wider National Trust Guided Walks programme across Dorset.

All walks are free, though standard admission applies for entry into Hardy’s Cottage, Max Gate and Clouds Hill. Prebooking is essential for Hardy’s Cottage and Clouds Hill and strongly advised for Max Gate.

Full walk details and booking links can be found at www. nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/ pilsdon-pen/walk-with-usguided-walks-in-dorset

THE PURBECK MAGAZINE

Arrow words Crossword

Cryptic crossword

Across

1 Start to display with endless abundance scrawled drawing (6)

Place 1 to 9 once into every black-bordered 3x3 area as well as each of the 54 rows indicated by the coloured lines. Rows don’t cross the thick black lines.

Killer Sudoku Pro

4 Part of wintry landscape in Arctic I cleared (6)

8 On reflection, clear figure (3)

9 Support classic Jaguar, a perfect model? (9)

11 Check edge on pavement reportedly (4)

12 Cure for poison toted in a jungle (8)

15 Popular section of Greece? (3,6)

18 Dismay about return of very old Republican for endorsement (8)

19 Criticism when time’s run out for being ill (4)

Killer Sudoku Pro

21 Good man stuck in fence is a legal professional (9)

Down

1 Separate awkward date and companion (6)

2 Posh wine that’s drunk about right for proprietor’s outfit (9)

3 Staffordshire town reported unauthorized disclosure of information (4)

5 Nervous bride left in Anglican church – worthy of belief? (8)

6 Shout gets to carry oddly (3)

7 It puts on an equal basis still British monarch (6)

10 Harmonious type of character (9)

13 Start alcoholic drink imbibed by a trio getting tipsy close to home (9)

23 European mountain among phenomenal peaks (3)

24 My robe is fashioned as a natural starting point? (6)

25 Most advanced set sold out lacking bit of scruple (6)

Place numbers 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and bold-lined 3x3 box. No digit may be repeated in any dash-lined cage, and all the digits in any cage must add up to the value shown in that cage.

14 Youngsters are in this party after an electoral defeat? (8)

16 Talk with bad temper I rejected, incoherent talk (6)

17 Take part in winter sport above untidy place or omit this? (4,2)

20 Some for a longer exam (4)

Separate awkward date and companion (6)

22 Lift gown mostly (3)

Posh wine that’s drunk about right for proprietor’s outfit (9)

Staffordshire town reported unauthorized disclosure of information (4)

Nervous bride left in Anglican church – worthy of belief? (8) 6 Shout gets to carry oddly (3) 7 It puts on an equal basis still British monarch (6) 10 Harmonious type of character (9) 13 Start alcoholic drink imbibed by a trio getting tipsy close to home (9) 14 Youngsters are in this party after an electoral defeat? (8)

16 Talk with bad temper I rejected, incoherent talk (6)

17 Take part in winter sport above untidy place –or omit this? (4,2)

20 Some for a longer exam (4)

Lift gown mostly (3)

Tumultuous times but be thankful for what you’ve got

IT’S an average Saturday. In a seven-day period, 20 Premier League matches are scheduled with an average attendance of 41,500 – let’s halve that in respect of matches played at home, so in my book each week that means more than 20,000 supporters travelling ‘away’ to cheer their team on. Today, 88,486 souls packed into Wembley Stadium. Hard to work out their exact journey, but let’s work on London to Manchester as being a reasonable average – that’s 200 miles. Each way.

Now let’s suggest that the 20,000 ‘away’ supporters travel three to a car. That’s about 7,000 car journeys each way. I won’t go any further, but I hope you take my point – a lot of people use a lot of petrol to go ‘away’ with their teams. And at £1.69 a gallon that’s a good few barrels of Brent Crude dispensed via the refineries and oil companies. At a pump price which is increasing almost daily as I write.

The bad news is being dispensed by the television companies yet, although a lot of people are complaining, seems to me that their football – or rugby – or F1 racing – is more important than their ability to go to work or go shopping. How did we manage in ‘lockdown’ when most sporting events were cancelled or postponed? Yes, I enjoy football and Formula 1, but the world didn’t end just because I couldn’t travel to see it. My petrol bill was at least halved – my bank balance improved significantly, the skies seemed cleaner and we spent a lot more time actually talking to each other, working in the garden and looking after the house.

Right now, we appear to be

by David Hollister

on the brink of a Third World War and it would surprise me not one little bit if fuel were rationed, if we had to put on extra jumpers for warmth and accept even greater privations than Covid thrust upon us.

Looking at all the wars going on perilously close to home, and the lunatics that are continuing to fight them, seems to me that right now we are lucky.

So, let’s stop whingeing about the cost of fuel and realise that at least we have roofs over our heads, food in our larders, the remains of a National Health Service which – compared to so many countries – is actually not bad. Let’s be grateful for what we have and each do our bit to help keep UK PLC afloat. Let’s encourage the junior doctors to come off strike and play their part doing what they have been trained to do, and let’s encourage the Birmingham refuse collectors to go back to work even if they aren’t earning as much as they would like to earn. Perhaps let’s hope that in all these cases, strikers will put country first and accept that things will never be as good and as equal as they would wish. Let’s get rid of the pathetic party politics and run the country as if it were our own – hang on, it is our own. Isn’t it?

Last year, more than 41,000 people entered the UK illegally. Most on small boats with the incumbent risks. Prevented from earning a living for themselves and their families simply by the Government’s stubborn insistence on work permits, passports and all the other red tape they tie the ‘illegals’ up with, failing to see that among them are vast numbers of people who just want to help, to work here and do their bit, because

so-called civilised countries have destroyed their homes and they have nowhere to go.

Look at what Israel has done to Gaza, look at what the US and the Gulf States are doing to most of the Middle East, look what Putin’s Russia is doing to Ukraine. Study the television coverage and be thankful that – at the moment – we are not being bombed or attacked by drones. So again – stop complaining and enjoy what’s left of UK PLC while it remains. So, what if the price of the ferry has increased – have you looked at the price of an ice cream or a pint of beer recently?

IWROTE my piece for the last edition just before I attended the Ferry Company drop-in at the Grand Hotel, and I have to confess that Mike Kean managed to field many of my arguments – the price increase was apparently necessary ‘to ensure the long-term future of the Ferry’, and the change to cash only was partly for the safety of the staff in the toll-booths, who have over the past couple of years had to endure not only violent verbal abuse but in some case actual physical abuse. Have we – as a civilised nation – stooped this low? Apparently so. What Mike did not mention was the fact that was revealed to

us all only a couple of days later – the proposed redundancy of a large number of staff. On the grounds of ensuring that the Ferry replacement fund was adequate when the time came for the Bramble Bush Bay to say its final farewell. I suppose I should have put two and two together and realised that ‘card only’ and ANPR could only lead one way. Redundancy. Even looking at the displays in the Grand Hotel showing that staff costs represented the Ferry Company’s single biggest overhead, I should have realised that this was the single biggest saving it could make. So, I apologise to my readers for failing to point this out at the time. Hindsight is a wonderful thing.

I just hope it works for the Ferry Company and guarantees us continuity. It is a huge sacrifice the staff are being told to make, and I’d be interested to know – once the furore has died down – exactly how many staff have been offered alternative positions within the Company, and details of the compensation packages offered to those who haven’t.

I have been taken to task about my suggestion that David Sidwick is doing a better job in Swanage than in BCP when it comes to solving the shoplifting problem. He – and the shopkeepers of BCP – are being overwhelmed by sheer numbers. And by the failure of the Courts to convict these criminals. On the line – we have no visible deterrent to hardened shoplifters. A slap on the wrist just isn’t enough. Where are the magistrates in BCP? And what are they doing?

Tune in and enjoy your local community radio station. Broadcast for the community, by the community. Listen to David Hollister ‘Telling It Like It Is’ Monday-Thursday 5-6pm.

A stamp on aspiration

FOR many across our country, owning a home has been one of the clearest markers of aspiration in Britain. It represents stability, security and the chance to build a future on one’s own terms. However, standing in the way of that aspiration is a tax so outdated, so distortionary and so fundamentally unfair that its continued existence feels increasingly indefensible. Stamp Duty Land Tax has become a punitive toll on mobility and aspiration, and ordinary people trying to get on or move up the housing ladder are being punished for it. Stamp duty is a tax on change and aspiration. It penalises people for moving home, whether they are upsizing to accommodate a growing family, downsizing in later life, relocating for work or simply seeking a better quality of life. No other major tax in Britain so

Consumer News

directly discourages the very behaviours that support a healthy, functioning housing market.

Its impact is felt most sharply in places like Dorset, where families often need to move to find the right home in the right community. Instead of supporting that flow, stamp duty traps people in properties that no longer suit their needs. Older residents stay in homes too large for them because the tax bill to downsize is prohibitive. Young families stretch themselves to the limit because moving again in a few years would mean another punishing charge. The result is a market that punishes local people at every level.

amount of revenue compared to the economic damage it causes. Economists across the political spectrum agree that it distorts the market, suppresses transactions and reduces social mobility. It is one of the least efficient taxes the Treasury is continuing to inflict on people. But beyond the economics lies a deeper point – stamp duty is simply unjust. It taxes people not on what they earn, nor on what they own, but on the act of trying to improve their lives. It punishes aspiration. It punishes families. It punishes the very spirit of progress that communities like ours depend on.

market. Then to include the extra burden of a tax that doesn’t get filtered back into our local economy is deeply counterproductive.

Scrapping stamp duty will not solve our housing crisis, but it would remove one of the most unnecessary barriers to movement and growth. It would free up larger homes for families who need them, make downsizing more attractive and allow people to relocate for work without facing a financial penalty.

For what benefit? Stamp duty raises a relatively modest

To add insult to injury, stamp duty, or the negative impact of it, harms rural areas like Dorset even more. Many locals are outpriced in their own housing

If we want a society where aspiration is encouraged rather than taxed, then stamp duty’s time is up. Politicians of all levels tell us they spend endless hours trying to find ways to support local residents. Get rid of this outdated tax and get our housing market going again.

BYRON QUAYLE Chair, South Dorset Conservative Association

‘I think toy doll is counterfeit’

QI bought a doll for my child recently. I thought it was manufactured by a well-known brand, but I suspect it might be counterfeit. How can I be sure and what are my rights?

AYOU’RE right to seek advice about this issue, because counterfeit goods aren’t only illegal, they can be dangerous.

Counterfeit goods are fake products designed to mimic authentic ones and it’s not always easy to spot a knock-off. Fake children’s toys often don’t meet safety standards and can pose choking hazards – poor manufacturing can mean small parts are easily detachable. It’s not just toys and games – things like clothing, footwear, e-cigarettes, perfumes and media devices can also be

Citizens Advice offers guidance on a consumer’s rights around counterfeit

goods

counterfeit.

Watch out for strangely low prices from well-known brands and signs of poor quality like missing security seals, bad or non-existent packaging, blurry logos and poor stitching. You may also spot spelling mistakes in the advert or on the packaging.

Looking at photos from official sellers can help when making comparisons, and it’s important to only buy products from reputable sellers.

If you have purchased a counterfeit item, there are steps you can take to try and get your

money back.

You’re legally entitled to a full refund on fake goods within 30 days of your purchase.

If it’s between 30 days and six months since you paid, the seller can provide you with a real version of the item first.

If they can’t, they’re legally required to give you a full refund.

If you paid more than six months ago, you’re only entitled to a part-refund based on how

much you’ve used the item and how long you’ve had it. Sometimes sellers might refuse to refund you, and argue the items were obviously fake because they were very cheap, but they’re breaking the law by selling them and your legal rights still apply.

If you paid by debit card, contact your bank and ask to use the ‘chargeback scheme’.

If you paid by credit card and the item cost less than £100, you can ask to use the same scheme. If you paid by credit card and the item cost between £100 and £30,000, tell your credit card company you want to make a ‘section 75’ claim to get your money back.

To report counterfeit goods or get help getting your money back, contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Service 0808 223 1133.

Clean water a basic human right

IF you watched Dirty Business, I am sure you share my shock and disgust at the actions of the water companies featured in the programme – and the regulatory failures that allowed those actions to continue for so long.

Decades of under-investment by water companies, particularly since privatisation in the late 1980s, combined with weak oversight from successive governments, have left us with a system failing people and the environment. Instead of reinvesting profits into infrastructure like sewage treatment works and pipe networks, too much money has flowed to shareholders while waterways suffered.

Whether or not the precise health impacts of walking through or surfing in contaminated water are proven, it is unacceptable that untreated – or partially treated – sewage continues to be discharged into our rivers and coastal waters.

The Government recently passed the Water (Special Measures) Act, strengthening regulators’ powers to block

executive bonuses when companies fail environmental standards and introducing tougher penalties for serious breaches. These are longoverdue but welcome steps, but they only begin to address the crisis.

It is unacceptable that water company bosses receive huge pay packages while customers face rising bills and sewage spills are treated as normal. If companies break the law or damage the environment, there must be real consequences – not just for the companies but individuals too.

not kept pace with housing growth, placing more pressure on overstretched systems.

Residents have experienced sewage backing up into their homes because pipes are damaged or overloaded. Fish deaths in rivers are also linked to agricultural and industrial run-off. We need stronger enforcement across all types of water pollution.

For too long water companies were allowed to report their own pollution incidents and communities had limited information about what was being discharged into waterways.

Close to home, pollution has affected the River Frome when heavy rainfall overwhelms sewer systems, leading to massive declines in salmon populations. Infrastructure has

Like many households, I was shocked when my latest water bill arrived. I encourage residents on low incomes – particularly those with large families or medical conditions requiring additional water use – to check whether they qualify for the Water Sure scheme. Liberal Democrats are calling for a single social tariff, so vulnerable households don’t have to restrict essential water use.

Tackling sewage pollution was a key Liberal Democrat

priority at the General Election and remains one today. Clean water is not a luxury – it is a basic human right, necessary for public health and a healthy environment.

In Parliament, I was proud to co-sponsor legislation to protect precious chalk streams like the Piddle in Purbeck and I am also working to support a restoration project for the River Allen north of Wimborne. Projects like this improve habitats and connect local communities with the rivers that run through our area.

Waterways should be safe to swim, paddle and fish and if water companies continue to put profits before people and the environment, then stronger action will be unavoidable. Communities deserve a water system that works in the public interest – and if the current model cannot deliver that, then fundamental reform, including ending private ownership, must be on the table.

VIKKI SLADE Lib Dem MP for Mid Dorset & North Poole

Government backs MEMO Portland

AFTER months of campaigning, countless meetings in Westminster and close collaboration with Dorset Council, I am thrilled that this Labour Government is backing MEMO Portland – sometimes known as Eden Portland – with £20 million of investment.

For those who may not have heard, the exciting MEMO Portland proposals are inspired by the hugely successful Eden Project down in Cornwall. When built, MEMO Portland will be a world-class visitor attraction located underground on the island – celebrating our Jurassic Coast and a hub for environmental research and biodiversity awareness.

After all, where better to learn about biodiversity than deep underground where fossil

records tell the story?

When up and running, I know that MEMO Portland will create well-paid jobs for local people, attract fresh investment to our part of the world and boost hospitality businesses across the county. Crucially, MEMO Portland will attract new visitors to Dorset – helping create an all-year-round tourism economy. This means higher footfall for our pubs, restaurants, hotels, cafes and shops. All building on our incredible existing tourism offering across Dorset.

Taking a step back, I firmly believe that a vibrant arts and culture scene is key to rejuvenating our local economy – and MEMO Portland can be right at the heart of this rejuvenation. Now that we have

secured record funding for MEMO Portland, I will continue to do everything I can to strengthen our arts and culture offer here in South Dorset.

And I cannot wait to see a new stonemasonry training centre established as part of MEMO Portland – the apprenticeships on offer will provide a unique opportunity for

young people growing up locally.

This fresh funding is fantastic news for our part of the world. Now, the real work begins to deliver MEMO Portland at pace. I will continue supporting this landmark project every step of the way!

LLOYD HATTON

Labour MP for South Dorset South Dorset MP Lloyd Hatton with Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves

Swans fall short against Frome

by Ron Butler Swanage & Wareham 34

Frome

43

SWANS started with an early try when hooker Jack Young went in after five minutes and George Crouch converted.

From the restart, scrum-half Olly Peters picked up and scored Swans’ second converted try (14-0) after nine minutes.

A Frome centre intercepted a Swans move in the backs and scored under the posts after 15 minutes.

Both sides gave away penalties, but after 25 minutes Swans let a Frome centre through the defence and he scored a converted try to level

RUGBY

the scores.

Frome kicked deep into Swans’ 22, Swans infringed and the visitors landed the penalty goal (14-17).

A penalty took Swans back into the Frome 22 and a move along Swans’ three-quarters saw Peters go in for his second try in the corner – (19-17) after 35 minutes.

Frome were not finished and just before the end of the first half they intercepted and were stopped on Swans’ line before they followed up and added another try.

That left the half-time score Swans 19 Frome 22.

Both sides gave away penalties early in the second half, but Swans were guilty of not tackling the Frome backs and Frome scored another converted try.

From the restart, Swans put the ball deep into the Frome 22, and from a scrum the ball came back to centre Ed Dimascio who scored in the corner (24-29) after 55 minutes.

On the hour mark, from a scrum, a Frome break resulted in a converted try, taking them to 36 points.

With 10 minutes to go, a move along Swans backs saw

full back Lewis Reeves move into the line to score in the corner.

Once again Swans let Frome’s centre break clear to run round to score a converted try, taking their score to 43pts.

Frome started a backs move, but were tackled on the halfway line, and winger Crouch fielded the ball, shrugged off a couple of tackles to score in the corner to take Swans’ score to 34 points.

Tales from ring-side and more

by Paul Pearson

DORSET Cricket Society have welcomed two ‘non-cricket’ guests as speakers – sports commentator Ian Darke and former AFC Bournemouth chair Jeff Mostyn.

Legendary commentator, Portsmouth-born Ian Darke, started out his broadcasting career in hospital radio before moving on to BBC Radio Leicester.

He then switched to BBC Radio working with the sports desk team covering matches and interviewing football managers and players.

This led to presenting Sports Report and then he was given the opportunity to replace Desmond Lynam as head of the BBC boxing commentary team.

Ian spoke about classic interviews with Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson, with visits to Las Vegas and Madison Square Garden.

He spoke about ‘that’ fight with Evander Holyfield and other interviews.

Ian then moved to football commentating with Sky Sports but is now working with TNT on Champions League football matches.

He has also been signed up to

CRICKET

Sports commentator Ian Darke

cover 2026 World Cup matches in North America.

Ian had a fountain of humorous stories on his commentating work.

Next, Jeff Mostyn, former AFC Bournemouth chair, spoke about his life, as relayed in his new book, The Chairman – The Man Who Saved AFC Bournemouth.

Jeff retold how he realised school was not for him but after starting out as a 16-year-old messenger boy at ICI he followed up with an apprenticeship.

He then joined TSB Bank, becoming salesperson of the year many times.

Later in life, he set up his own business providing

insurance advice to British servicemen at home and abroad.

After Jeff sold his business, he received a call from longtime family friend Kevin Bond, urging him to invest in AFC Bournemouth, and he became chair.

In retirement, now in his 80th year, Jeff is often seen at AFCB home games.

He continues to be involved with the FA and as an ambassador of his two local charities, Lewis Manning and Julia’s House.

Anglers out for still water trout

ANGLING

by Gordon Wray

RAWLSBURY is the ideal still water trout fishing venue.

Just a few miles from Dorchester, it’s supremely peaceful with plenty of local wildlife to watch out for.

The Wimborne Fly Fishers were there on the opening day of the Rawlsbury season at the invitation of Wimborne and District Angling Club.

The action started quickly with a few anglers bagging up before lunch but trout are fickle creatures and can turn off in an instant.

Those who persevered were rewarded with some big fish

with John Belk taking a five-pounder late in the day. The winner was Gareth Jones whose skilful angling bagged a four-fish total of 12lb 7oz.

Meditations in nature: Brown as bark and light as breath

by Susanna Curtin

I AM always quite pleased when March marches into April. I know there is much to behold in this transition month, not least the cheery trumpets of garden daffodils and the white clouds of blackthorn flowers that make joyful brush strokes along the hedgerows. Yet I find it is such a teasing time of year. Although the sun can feel so beautiful, the biting North Atlantic winds, the rain and even occasional snow can make it feel more wintery than winter, because, by now, I have sampled the warmth on my face and it just makes me yearn even more for balmy sunny days. Today, however, I have decided to wrap up well and ignore the icy wind to visit Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve, an old haunt of mine run by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. It is a part of Hampshire’s Avon Valley which has quite an interesting past. It was an airfield for our Spitfires during the 1940s, but after the war the land was decommissioned and used to grow cereal crops. It was then sold off for gravel extraction, an industry that continued for the next 50 years to supply building materials for the New Forest area. Eventually, Mother Nature was allowed to weave her magic and left to recover, and the gravel pits began to flood naturally, which attracted flocks of birds. Then seeing the potential for wildlife, they were refashioned by conservation efforts and have since become an array of lakes, wetlands and woodlands that make it a haven for more than 5,000 wintering

wildfowl. The Dockens Water also runs through the reserve. This is a meandering, shallow stream that provides a habitat for sea trout, brook lamprey and bullhead – all of which are internationally protected.

My day began in one of the five lakeside hides, where I have been watching flocks of wigeon and teal, tufted ducks and goldeneye. Unfortunately, I am rather too early for the common terns that arrive in April for their breeding season, but they will be a good reason to return later in the year. So having seen the wildfowl, I am leaving the lake behind me to make my way to the boardwalks of the wet woodland area where I am hoping to see a treecreeper – one of my favourite woodland birds and a major reason for visiting. Treecreepers are active, mouse-like birds that often start at the base of a tree and spiral all the way up to the canopy. By now, they will be in their pristine breeding plumage with mottled brown backs and wings, that perfectly resemble tree bark. They have a brilliant white underside, a white stripe above their eye and an exquisite, long downward-curving beak. Their extended stiff-looking tail helps them to brace against the tree trunk, like a woodpecker’s, while they search tiny cracks and crevices for invertebrates. Their large claw-like feet are designed to only ever go up trees – they cannot go down headfirst like nuthatches. So, when they reach the top of a tree, they will fly to the bottom of the next one.

They are such special birds that I can recall nearly every

Health & Wellbeing

consists of one or just a few trees. Once you have heard them, you then need to keep as quiet and still as you can, as when disturbed they either stay perfectly still and immediately blend into the tree, making them impossible to see, or they move around the trunk out of sight.

sighting I have had of them. As a younger nature enthusiast, I found them so difficult to spot as their plumage renders them almost invisible, but then like a lot of things, once you get your eyes and ears in tune with them, you can begin to spot them more easily. Despite being the most inconspicuous of birds, they are very common and occur in most coniferous or deciduous woodlands. In the UK, we have about 225,000 breeding pairs and their population thankfully remains quite stable.

Despite being relatively widespread, most people have not seen one. The trick is to listen for their faint high-pitched ‘thin’ vocalisation that is a repeated insect-like ‘see-seesee’ and then to look carefully for any movement around the tree trunks. I have never visited Blashford Lakes and not seen at least one of them, so I know they are here, especially as they are known to be home lovers, staying in their own small territory which sometimes

After a good 10 minutes waiting, listening and looking, my patience is rewarded. For there at the base of an old oak tree, I notice some movement. Then comes the delight, as I watch this clever little bird making his way, spiralling up the trunk with his body pressed tight against the bark. I follow him for as long as my craning neck allows. Then looking away, I notice another one on an adjacent tree, perhaps its partner. Brown as bark, and light as breath, they remind me of elusive and mysterious forest spirits – ever-present, secretive, quiet and watchful. I feel utterly privileged to spend time with them before they disappear to carry on their secret lives.

Making my way back to the car park, a calling chiff-chaff accompanies me – my first for 2026. The goat willows are a cloud of creamy yellow and the hedgerow is bustling with dunnock, blue, great and long-tailed tits who are pairing up and vying for territory – all a sure sign that despite the chilly wind, spring has surely sprung. n Dr Susie Curtin (email curtin. susanna@gmail.com) Treecreepers are very common but very hard to spot

Health & Wellbeing

Goose grass spring clean for the lymphatic system

by Fiona Chapman

I HAVE come back from Africa to a very early spring, it feels. The snowdrops have gone, daffodils are out, the forsythia is flowering, the magnolia is on the cusp of being amazing and it would all look fantastic if the sun shone! Apparently, I missed a month of almost endless rain, and the forecast is not looking much better.

However, the herbs are coming up. I have already made the first batch of wild garlic pesto which I gave to my son-in-law who had to put up with me for a month. It is one of his favourites and I feel I need to be extremely nice if I am ever to see him again – it is quite

Cleavers – galium aparine – have been used in traditional medicine for treatment of disorders of the diuretic, lymph systems and as a detoxifier

something to spend a month with your mother-in-law, however well you get on! Cleavers or Galium aparine is coming up and this is an

extremely useful little herb at this time of year. It is easy to recognise, harvest and take.

Cleavers are the sticky green plants that are appearing everywhere – some call it goose grass, some sticky willy. It is a spring clean for the lymphatic system, which at the end of winter can be feeling a bit stagnant. Cleavers help to clear the lymph, which enhances circulation and purifies the blood. This action also takes the heat from the body which reduces inflammation and so can be used for arthritis and gout, and is good for the skin with the cleansing and cooling properties calming eczema, psoriasis, rosacea and acne. It is

also diuretic, making you pee more, which can help to lower blood pressure and clear toxins through the kidneys, which may aid weight loss. It encourages the liver to produce bile, which is great for digestion and can also soften kidney stones and be taken for urinary tract infections.

One of the best ways to take it is to pick a big colander full, wash it and put it in at least a litre of filtered, cold water and leave it overnight to steep. You can add lemon or lime and have it as a refreshing drink throughout the day. You can also make a fresh tea, pour boiling water over it and leave it to steep for at least 10 minutes before drinking. Make sure you harvest it away from dog walking areas and it should smell of newly mown hay. n Fiona Chapman is a naturopathic herbalist (email Pellyfiona@gmail.com).

Care home celebrates accolade

A POOLE care home with sweeping harbour views is celebrating after being named among the best in the south west for the second year running.

Marjorie House, in Crichel Mount Road in Lilliput, has been recognised as one of the Top 20 Care Homes in the South West at the Care Home Awards 2026.

The home, run by not-forprofit provider Care South, achieved the honour based glowing reviews from residents and their families on carehome. co.uk where it currently holds a perfect 10 out of 10 rating.

Opened in September 2024, the Art Deco-style home offers en suite bedrooms with views across Poole Harbour towards Brownsea Island and Sandbanks.

Residents also have access to a range of facilities including the Captain’s Club bar, hair and nail salon, activity spaces, terraced gardens, sensory areas, a courtyard and even a putting green.

Families have been quick to

praise the care provided by staff.

One review reads: “I couldn’t be happier knowing mum is cared for by the wonderful people at Marjorie House. Truly the kindest, most accommodating people. Mum is the happiest she can be in their trusted care.”

Another states: “Marjorie House is a truly special place. My mother recently moved in for respite care and our experience of the home, its facilities, staff and management has been exemplary.

“All staff go above and

The Marjorie House team celebrate winning the Top 20 Care Home in the South West Award

beyond for mum every day in all aspects of her life and care requirements. We couldn’t be happier with our experience at Marjorie House and would highly recommend to anyone requiring top quality care. An outstanding home.”

The home is also celebrating a positive inspection from the Care Quality Commission, which rated it ‘Good’ following its first inspection since opening.

The report notes: “We were told how a person who moved into Marjorie House has

achieved immeasurable outcomes that have increased their health and wellbeing.

A relative said to us: “What they have done and the progress with my loved one is a miracle. They have given my loved one back to me and all that was lost.””

Marjorie House home manager Georgie Powell said the recognition was especially meaningful because it came from residents and their loved ones.

She said: “We are extremely proud to be recognised as one of the Top 20 Care Homes in the South West for the second consecutive year.

“This award is especially meaningful because it is based on feedback from our residents and their families, whose trust means everything to us.

“It is a testament to the dedication, compassion and hard work of our wonderful team, who go above and beyond every day to ensure residents feel supported and enabled to thrive in our care.”

Fierce self-compassion and its link to burnout recovery (part 2)

by Nicole Asghar

THIS article is a continuation of my previous one – issue 142 –where I explored how burnout can develop from ‘lopsided caring’, a term used by Dr Kristin Neff to describe focusing on others’ needs to the detriment of our own. Here, we’ll explore these ideas further and how fierce self-compassion can support burnout recovery.

Research shows ‘lopsided carers’ are more likely to experience chest pain, heart palpitations, fainting and burnout. What begins as a heartfelt desire to help others can end up harming our own hearts. Our nervous systems often register the demands of caring differently than our minds do. We may want to say ‘yes’ because it aligns with our values, yet our bodies may be signalling something very different. Staying in a prolonged state of activation without restoring balance can eventually lead to fatigue, burnout and even resentment.

This is where self-

compassion becomes essential, particularly the balance between fierce and gentle forms. My approach to burnout recovery requires both. The fierceness lies in facing an uncomfortable truth – if we are constantly abandoning our own needs, we are not truly living compassionately. Compassion, after all, is about the reduction of suffering, and that includes our own.

Fierce self-compassion helps us protect ourselves, set boundaries and recognise when those boundaries have been crossed. It can also give us the courage to take action against what is causing harm. In my case, that harm was my pattern of lopsided caring. In other situations, the source may be external – a difficult workplace dynamic, a toxic relationship or broader social injustices. In these contexts, the energy of fierce self-compassion can extend beyond personal change into advocacy, activism and education.

Yet fierceness alone is not

enough. Gentle self-compassion provides the necessary balance. It acts as the yin to fierce compassion’s yang. Without this softer element, we risk remaining in a constant state of effort or self-improvement. Even positive change can become exhausting if we approach it with relentless intensity. Gentle selfcompassion allows our nervous systems to settle. It helps our

bodies recognise signals of safety and creates space for rest, reflection and replenishment. Studies show the benefits of self-compassion practices for our nervous system, brain and heart health. When we cultivate greater kindness toward ourselves, healing can occur on both physiological and emotional levels.

It takes time – it certainly did for me. But gradually, my mind became a kinder place to live, my body felt less exhausted as it was given permission to rest, and something unexpected happened…By embracing both fierce and gentle selfcompassion, I found renewed energy and a more sustainable way to care – for myself and for others.

n If you have any questions, I’d love to hear from you. Nicole Asghar is a Dorset-based therapist working online and around Bournemouth. Specialising in neurodivergence, trauma and yoga. Get in touch via nicole@ourluminousminds. com or www.nicoleasghar.com

In a Garden of Eden

ON the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, emerald green rainforest meets the deep blue ocean on the Osa peninsula. This is dominated by the Corcovado, largest of the country’s national parks and a crown jewel in the protected reserves of Central America.

Of all the wild areas I have seen worldwide, this assembly of pristine beaches, tumbling waterfalls and mangrove swamps, alive with wildlife, is unsurpassed. My first visit was in 1979 when during Operation Drake we erected a memorial cairn in memory of Sir Francis Drake’s arrival 400 years before.

Then in 2015, the Dorsetbased Scientific Exploration Society was asked by the Costa Rican park department to build a 10-metre footbridge, crossing a ravine and leading into the Corcovado reserve. The bridge was built and lasted for 10 years but by 2025 the timber decking had rotted and the structure needed urgent repairs.

Thus, with the support of Pioneer Expeditions of Dorchester and the backing of the Scientific Exploration Society, a 15-strong team set out to rebuild the bridge and carry out community aid tasks to help the indigenous Ngabe people. Other tasks included surveying trails in the tropical forest and cataloguing the wildlife to provide a simple guidebook for the area.

FOLLOWING the examples of work carried out in Kenya using recycled plastic, it was decided to rebuild the bridge using materials made from plastic waste and even obsolete Nicaraguan banknotes. The manufacture of the decking and rails was carried out by Producol, a company making garden furniture in San José.

by JOHN BLASHFORD-SNELL , former British Army officer, explorer and author.

He also founded Operation Raleigh and the Scientific Exploration Society

John Blashford-Snell at the Manzano bridge and (right) a puma pays a visit to camp

In the summer of 2025, Motcombe residents Duncan and Filiz were in Costa Rica and kindly did a most useful recce for the project.

We were fortunate to have Lana Wedmore, a former member of Operation Raleigh, living on the edge of the Corcovado park at her legendary Luna Lodge wellness centre. Lana was able to give us much valuable help,

the local schools and distributed reading glasses to local people. These had been collected and checked by Dave Smith, of Gillingham, who acts as logistics officer for the Scientific Exploration Society.

Using camera traps, biology teacher Sarah Wood catalogued the wildlife and Peter Manns, of Winchester, did a study of the Ngabe’s cultural life and met their medicine man.

Tim Harrison, of Taunton, was responsible for mapping the jungle trails to be included in the guide book.

Woollen animal puppets, made by a group of women in Bournemouth, were presented to local children following the extraction of a tooth by the expedition dentist. These were organised by Shirley Critchley, of Wimborne. It is hoped the puppets will encourage the children to protect the wildlife. We also did a study of the work needed to create a health post for the area using an old cargo container. The bridge work was led by former Royal Engineer Colonel Paul Lodge, of Hay-on-Wye, and his friend Stewart Morehead, who works with recycled plastic in England.

as did Adrian Morales whose La Leona Lodge was near the bridge site. The Association for Internal Development for the area also gave valuable assistance.

Flying in on November 20, 2025, the team drove for nine hours to the Ngabe village of Aqua Riva, carried out trail surveys, provided material for

Working in temperatures of up to 30 degrees and enduring several heavy rainstorms, the team were closely watched by great red macaws and a troop of monkeys as well as being visited by giant anteaters. The animals were incredibly tame with tapir and other mammals approaching our people. Even a puma walked into one camp! We were all astounded by the lack of fear of humans the animals displayed. For birdwatchers it was a real paradise.

After three weeks’ hard work under hot and humid conditions the new bridge was opened and the venture in the ‘Garden of Eden’ declared a success.

Veterinary care then and now: Progress costs money

by Lynn Broom BVSc, GPCert(ExAP), AdvDipAAB, MRCVS

THE Competition and Markets Authority has recently announced the findings of its review of veterinary services and published its recommendations. I thought I would add some information to put veterinary costs into perspective.

When I qualified in 2000, I worked in rural practice. We had limited equipment with manual x-ray processing –

produced variable results often not of good diagnostic quality, no ultrasound scanner and unqualified lay staff. Now practices have digital x-rays – allowing incredible detail for diagnoses, high quality ultrasound scanners, access to CT and MRI scanners and highly qualified veterinary nurses increasing the care and safety of procedures. Progress costs money and the service provided now far outweighs the service we were able to provide then. I insure my own dog to

A private CT or MRI scan costs less for people than animals

to their final minutes. It is important to be up front with costs and estimates should always be provided to ensure the options available are realistic and affordable. Just because an option is available does not mean it is the correct course of action for you and your pet.

ensure specialist care is affordable for him if he needs it.

I used to work a one in two rota which involved working every day from 8.30am to 5pm plus every other night and every other weekend. When my boss went on holiday I worked two weeks entirely on my own. Now many practices use out of hours services so that staff can have a reasonable work-life balance. Rural practices cannot provide this option and still do their own on call, meaning that staff who have worked all day may still be called at 3am. This makes employing staff much more difficult because staff choose jobs with a less demanding rota which leads to understaffing and use of expensive locums.

Out of hours (OOH) services employ staff who specialise in emergency care and often have extra qualifications. OOH services have significantly higher overheads with higher salaries due to the unsociable hours and the inability to earn income from routine sales of medications such as wormers and flea treatments.

Veterinary medicine is not simply a sale of an item like a tin of beans. It is a service with a personal aspect and can be a relationship which takes you from your puppy’s first vaccine

In 1999 it became legal for non-vets to own veterinary practices because of the Competition Act 1998. While this had benefits such as allowing veterinary nurses to be involved in veterinary practice ownership, it has, ironically, led to large scale corporate ownership leading to reduced competition because several companies bought up large numbers of previously independent practices.

Veterinary practices are required by the Veterinary Medications Regulations (VMR) to comply with strict rules such as only using medications licensed in animals if they exist instead of significantly cheaper generic or human licensed products leading to significantly higher purchase costs. They are not even allowed to recommend using a human medication such as paracetamol to keep costs down – though many do to ensure animal welfare.

The NHS is an amazing service and ensures that everyone regardless of income can access medical care. This does mean that we have no concept of the actual costs involved in medicine unless we access private care. Even a private CT or MRI scan costs less for people than animals because animals require anaesthesia to keep them still enough and throughput is much lower leading to higher maintenance costs.

Please be aware that front line staff rarely set costs and they are doing their best in an increasingly blame-led culture where costs are being increasingly disputed.

Motoring

West is best in ‘manners map’

BRITONS are famed for their love of order, of queueing and politeness. However, that changes for many of us when we get behind the wheel, according to new research.

A new survey by National Highways reveals millions of drivers feel their day-to-day manners get worse when they hit the road, with lateness and tiredness among the main cited reasons for our bad behaviour.

However, in good news for the south west, the region came out on top of the rankings for road etiquette.

In the south west, 46% rate their driving etiquette as good, with 31% admitting to tailgating.

The driving etiquette research by National Highways showed an estimated: n 4.9 million drivers say their

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information lead at National Highways, said: “Tailgating may seem harmless, but it can put everyone on the road at risk. Following too closely means there is less time to react and stop safely if the vehicle in front slows down or stops.

“Leaving a safe gap makes driving safer, keeps traffic moving more smoothly and is a simple courtesy that helps everyone feel more relaxed behind the wheel.

“A good rule of thumb is the two-second rule, which should be doubled in wet conditions or when visibility is reduced.”

Nationally, one in 10 drivers rated their road etiquette as poor, with behavioural psychologist Dr Neale Kinnear saying being behind the wheel was a particular situation leading to changes in our actions.

“Most of us see ourselves as considerate people, but driving is a unique context,” he said.

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Running late is the biggest trigger for poor driving etiquette (27%), followed by tiredness (20%) and peak time commuting (16%).

“It’s goal-focused and often time-pressured. When we’re running late or behind other traffic, frustration can build. In that moment, closing the gap can feel like taking control or making progress.

“The reality is different. Drivers tend to overestimate how much time, if any, they save by pushing on.

“As frustration rises, perspective on the importance of keeping a safe margin, and the impact it has on others can be lost.”

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While drivers in the south west scored highest for road etiquette, followed by those in the north west, London and the south east are rated as having the poorest road manners.

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The survey came amid National Highways’ campaign to improve driving etiquette, with a regional ‘manners map’ highlighting where behaviour is better – and where it falls short.

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Colin Stevenson, road safety

He added: “Leaving space isn’t just polite, it’s practical. A simple two-second gap keeps traffic flowing more smoothly, reduces stress, and makes the road a better place for everyone.”

The Highway Code advises drivers to leave at least a two-second gap from the vehicle in front on faster moving roads, allowing time to think and stop safely.

Tailgating is also against the law and can lead to fines and other enforcement action, including a £100 fixed penalty notice and three penalty points on a driving licence.

Morganite magic

by Amy Brenan, director of

Heirlooms Jewellers, 21 South Street, Wareham

AS an antiques expert, few gemstones delight me quite like morganite.

Soft, romantic and quietly luminous, this blush-pink beryl has a subtle elegance that makes it perfectly suited to antique jewellery, where refinement and craftsmanship matter far more than showy brilliance.

Discovered in the early 20th century, morganite was named in honour of financier and gem collector JP Morgan – yes, the very same JP Morgan whose headquarters is in Bournemouth! – following its identification by gemmologist George Kunz.

Its timing was significant. Emerging during the Edwardian and Art Deco periods, morganite fitted seamlessly into the aesthetic of the era – a time when jewellery favoured soft colour palettes, graceful lines

Sale realises

£1.4m-plus

STRONG international bidding defined Duke’s two-day Jewellery, Watches, Silver and Currency sale, which achieved an 83% sold rate and realised more than £1.4 million, further underscoring Duke’s standing among the UK’s leading regional auction houses.

The undisputed highlight was a remarkable Victorian diamond and pearl double pendant/brooch which soared to £712,500, inclusive of buyer’s premium.

Its exceptional result not only anchored the sale but reaffirmed the enduring appetite for rare, historic jewels of exceptional quality, craftsmanship and versatility.

Diamonds continued to command attention, with a 19th-century rivière necklace achieving £57,500 and a pair of cushion-cut diamond earrings selling for £137,500.

This Victorian diamond and pearl double pendant/brooch made £712,500, including of buyer’s premium.

and understated luxury.

In antique jewellery, morganite is most often seen set in warm yellow or rose gold, which enhances its peach and blush tones beautifully.

It was commonly used in rings, pendants, brooches and delicate drop earrings, often paired with pearls, diamonds or fine filigree metalwork.

Unlike bolder gemstones, morganite offered a gentle glow rather than a sparkle, making it ideal for everyday elegance as well as formal wear.

What makes antique morganite pieces so appealing today is their rarity and their romance.

They are far less common than sapphire, ruby or emerald, giving them a quiet exclusivity that appeals to collectors and connoisseurs alike.

More importantly, they reflect a period when jewellery was designed with artistry, balance and longevity in mind.

Notable supporting results included a Victorian cat’s eye chrysoberyl, diamond and ruby brooch/pendant –£32,500 – and a late 19th-

century diamond-set hair comb/brooch – £18,750. Elsewhere, coloured stones, watches and silver performed with consistency, led by a George II silver-gilt wine cup – £22,500 – and a set of three George II salvers – £28,750. Overall, the sale demonstrated both depth of bidding and Duke’s continued reputation for presenting high quality material to an international market.

One man’s mission to improve the lupin

by Sally Gregson

CERTAIN plants remind us of a simpler age when roses grew around the door and pansies lined the garden path. Those stout lupins that seem to grow in every cottage garden do just that. We imagine lupins to have sown themselves anywhere, in any sunny patch, with abandon. The reality is a different but interesting story.

Although lupin species and a few simple hybrids had been grown for centuries, it was the single-minded enthusiasm of one man in the early 20th century, George Russell, to improve them. Russell sought to develop larger spikes in richer colours, that eventually became known as ‘Russell Lupins’. But

he was a secretive man, so when, in his late 70s, he was approached by a nurseryman, James Baker, he was reluctant

to pass on the details of his breeding. So much so that Baker promised that he, Russell, could continue to rogue the seedlings before he grudgingly handed over his lupin stocks. The two men continued to breed the lupins for another 15 years.

Since Baker’s retirement, a handful of dedicated nurserymen have improved the Russell lupins still further, and today’s hybrids are being bred to meet modern tastes for more subtle colours and stronger bi-colours.

Among the new favourites are L. Chameleon, whose flower-spikes develop in tiers –light green top buds melt into pastel apricot and then pale lemon as the flowers fully open

How to sow, grow and protect first carrots

by Sally Gregson

IT is spring! To plagiarise The Song of Solomon – weeds appear on the earth; the singing of birds has come; the soil is warming up. Perhaps winter is finished with us! Whatever happens now, the warmth of the soil should make things germinate and grow.

In the newly prepared vegetable patch, or between the existing perennials in the sunny border, we could start the season by sowing a few carrots to be ready in summer. These days there are many differently coloured carrots, ranging from red, through pale yellow to the traditional orange. And their seeds are itching to come up in your garden.

Using a hand fork as a

mini-rake, scratch the surface of the ground where the carrots are to be grown. Or more formally, make a drill in the soil. Choose a location that has not been recently manured, and where there will be little competition from neighbours, and sow the seed thinly. Mark

where you are sowing. It’s frighteningly easy to turn around and forget. Water the area well, especially if it hasn’t rained for a while, and keep an eye on the patch. The carrots should germinate within a couple of weeks, depending on the weather.

down the stalk. Or L. Beefeater, with strongly saturated red spikes that would make big, bold exclamation marks in a hot-coloured border. And L. Thunder with sinister purpleblack bells and yellow standards. They far outclass those bi-colours of old. They do not of course, reproduce from seed. They come from basal cuttings. They root easily and well if taken in spring as the plant starts to expand and produce side shoots. Run a sharp knife down the stem of a clump and detach the shoot from the clump. Remove the tip if possible. Dip the cutting into hormone rooting powder and dibble it into a clean pot of sharp sand and a little potting compost. Label the pot, water it well and pop it into a plastic bag. Blow into the bag and tie up the top. Put it under the greenhouse bench out of the sun. The cuttings should be ready for potting on in a month or so.

If you are planting a formal row of carrots, there’s a simple trick to avoid the attentions of the Carrot Root Fly (CRF). That is, to sow onions or a row of chives around the seed. CRF travels close to the ground and its ‘nose’ is easily diverted by a different smell, such as fresh onions. Alternatively, you could raise the whole bed above their flightpath – 30cm. Or indeed, delay sowing carrot seed until May or June after the CRF have given up and gone home.

CRF are, above all, attracted by the scent of newly grown carrots, so the critical time is when it comes to thinning the seedlings. Perhaps a quick spray with some garlic water would work instead of sowing onions or chives alongside the row. Later in the summer, a row of French Marigolds could act as a deterrent. Chives or French Marigolds – either would make a colourful addition to a planting of some delicious young carrots.

The only way is up!

GARDENS in general are getting smaller. The density demanded by planners means more houses per square metre, which to me means less garden. Planting climbers doesn’t have to be plants that you may be stuck with for years – if you want variety, then choose from the wonderful range of annual climbers.

The first is well known and that is the good old sweet pea. Individual colours are available but longer flowering is often achieved with mixed colours, such as the Spencer varieties. These are long stemmed and good for cutting with great perfume. They will do best in the ground but also can be effectively grown in a deep pot with a quality potting compost. Plenty of water is the key and regular picking will keep the flowers coming.

A relative, of course, is the runner bean, which was originally introduced as an ornamental flower. The advantage is that an edible crop is produced as well as wonderful flowers. Keeping these moist is crucial, for pollination purposes especially, if they are to be grown in a pot. Purpose-made obelisk, whether metal or willow, are useful climbing frames but a wigwam of 8ft canes will do equally as well and may give a better height for optimum results.

The cup and saucer vine Cobaea scandens has large white or purple flowers which, if laid on their side, look like a cup and saucer. These will attain a height of 8ft-plus in a short time.

More delicate is the asarina with flowers that are reminiscent of Antirrhinums, hence the common name of climbing snapdragon. These climb with their growing tip winding around the climbing frame. A number of colours are available but the most effective are Snow White and Mystic Rose.

Others in the annual climbing range include Thunbergia, commonly known as black-eyed Susan. The standard variety is yellow with a black centre to the flower and there is also a variety called African Sunset with a dusty apricot hue. Both are very happy in a good soil or in pots with plenty of depth.

Not really climbers but good fun plants, even if you just want to be one step ahead of your gardening neighbours, are the climbing Fuchsias and climbing Geranium. Really, they have a habit that makes them grow much taller than their normal relatives, but they are a bit of fun.

So, lots of colour on quickgrowing plants that will fill space in a very short time which every garden will have space for.

MIKE BURKS, managing director of The Gardens Group

Five cashflow tips for SMEs: Monitor and manage work in progress

BUSINESSES in the west country are being urged to meticulously track the heartbeat of work in progress throughout its lifecycle.

Monitoring, managing and making changes to reduce mission creep, improve efficiencies and maximise cashflow are critical steps which can improve a business’s health and growth prospects, according to a senior finance professional.

Jonathan Rees, partner and head of Accounts and Business Advisory Services (ABAS) in the central and west regions at international business advisory

group Azets, has offered five key tips for SMEs when it comes to work in progress (WIP) that is ongoing or recently completed.

n Report and invoice exception/out-of-scope work: Mission creep can be all too common in the middle of a project when a client raises additional requests. Put processes in place to identify this and be able to quote for that extra work. A few minutes here and there, or extra materials, can add up considerably over the year.

n Minimise the number of open

jobs: As soon as a piece of work or project is finished, strike while the iron is hot and get the bill out the same day. You are incurring costs, such as wages, all the while a client or customer is holding on to payment. If a client or customer delays in signing off work or responding to queries, sending an interim invoice can encourage a response.

n Utilise WIP management software: Adopt a forensic approach to actively monitor how much time is being spent on particular clients. Software will give you the means to maintain hourly rates, reduce over-servicing and provide the data to support proposed fee increases or billing for additional work.

n Monitor and measure WIP by job and by team member: Track how long WIP exists before it’s invoiced. The aim is to narrow the working cash flow cycle –to reduce the amount of time it takes to perform the work, issue the invoice once work is completed and receive payment. This can identify areas for improvement or employees needing support. Setting billings

targets and rewards can help. n Analyse write-offs and re-work reasons: Root cause analysis is vital to understand why margins are lower on a job or piece of work than expected. It may be that costs or raw materials have been higher than budgeted, that there has been scope creep, an error in initial pricing or over/under allocation of staff. If you are not looking at why margins are smaller than expected, how can you possibly expect any different outcome in the future?

Jonathan said: “Effective cashflow management isn’t rocket science.

“Much of it is common sense but it does mean finding the time to put processes in place, measure the metrics and hold regular reviews.

“It may be that staff training is required, new software and digital tools put in place or support gained from business advisors to identify smarter financial strategies and growth opportunities.

“Incremental gains can make a powerful difference to cash levels and the success of a business.”

Dolphin coins in cash for good causes

THE Dolphin shopping centre in Poole raised more than £37,500 in 2025 for its two charity partners and other local causes.

Mosaic Family Support, a children’s bereavement charity, and MYTIME Young Carers, a support charity for young carers in Dorset, are The Dolphin’s charity partners from 2025 to the end of 2026.

At the end of the first year of the partnership, both charities have received a donation of more than £8,000 to support the services they deliver to young people across Dorset.

Fundraising activities at The Dolphin last year included collection buckets during live music performances and events held at GATHER.

The Dolphin’s donation will

help fund a series of Mosaic Family Support’s bereavement cafes at East Dorset schools, creating safe and supportive spaces for young people to share their experiences of grief.

The cafes create gentle, welcoming environments for students who may be coping with the death of a parent, sibling, friend or another loved one.

By connecting students with

Children’s bereavement charity Mosaic Family Support received more than £8,000 from the Poole shopping centre

peers and trusted staff who understand loss, the cafes reduce the sense of isolation, anxiety and depression many bereaved young people experience.

MYTIME Young Carers runs programmes to protect young carers against poor mental health, social isolation and economic disadvantage.

The Dolphin’s donation will see young carers in Dorset

given the opportunity to enrol onto the charity’s Employability Programme, which equips those aged 14-25 with the required skills to access and sustain employment.

MYTIME’s Zoom Youth Group is also funded by donations to help young carers forge strong connections with those who face similar challenges of caring for a loved one.

The Dolphin raised a further £15,858 over a two-week period for the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal in November 2025, supporting veterans, service personnel and their families.

Forest Holme’s Light up a Life Tree also received more than £8,950, offering a poignant way to remember loved ones during the 2025 festive season.

Senior associate solicitor Georgina Emerson from Ellis Jones Solicitors (centre) with Poole Netball Club players and head coach and chair Hayley Peyman (back left)

Netballers aiming high with lawyers

COMMUNITY-MINDED

lawyers threw their support behind high-flying Poole Netball Club to celebrate International Women’s Day.

Dorset law firm Ellis Jones Solicitors sponsored the outfit for the first time to show its backing for female sport in the community.

It timed the agreement to coincide with this month’s International Women’s Day.

Senior associate solicitor Georgina Emerson met players and head coach Hayley Peyman at Canford Sports Centre in Poole to celebrate the agreement.

Georgina, a keen netball player, said: “It was fitting to time our sponsorship deal for International Women’s Day to demonstrate the importance of supporting female sport in the community.

“Poole Netball Club’s values match of our own, where there is commitment to community, a drive for excellence and unwavering support to help every individual fulfil their potential.

“We look forward to supporting the club and wish its teams every success.”

Ellis Jones has 187 staff – of whom 75% are female, including a record nine partners.

It has offices at Canford Cliffs in Poole as well as others in Swanage, Wimborne, Bournemouth and Ringwood.

Poole is one of the south west’s leading high performance netball clubs for girls aged six and above.

Poole Netball Club head coach and chair Hayley Peyman said: “We are grateful to Ellis Jones for helping us develop strong, confident and resilient young women on and off the court.

“Its support will allow us to continue to offer a high performance pathway from grassroots to elite level competition where passion is nurtured, talent is developed and performance is a shared goal.”

Poole Netball Club also has a Mini Stars programme for children in school years 1 to 4. It offers a fun, friendly and structured environment where young players can begin developing the fundamental movement and ball skills essential to netball.

Poole’s junior club starts at Under 10 level and runs through to Under 16s.

Bournemouth University which supports girls in education, organised by Soroptimist International Bournemouth. It aims to transform the lives and status of women and girls through education, empowerment and enabling opportunities.

Ellis Jones, a Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners rated firm, supports numerous sports clubs and charities in the community. They include Wimborne Cricket Club, Brockenhurst FC, Swanage Cricket Club, West Hants Club, Parkstone Yacht Club, the BOWRA Foundation, Julia’s House, Dorset Wildlife Trust, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra and Swanage Railway.

gender equal world. Its theme this year was ‘Give to Gain’. Ellis Jones also sponsors a Science, Technology and Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) challenge event at

Ellis Jones also has dedicated LGBTQ+ and sports law departments to provide bespoke support. It is a signatory of the Ministry of Defence’s Armed Forces Covenant and has received Gold Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) certification.

International Women’s Day, first held in 1911, celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women but also calls for a

Take a peak behind the garden gate

WESTERN GARDENS

24A Western Avenue, Branksome Park, Poole BH13 7AN. Peter Jackson, 01202 708388, pjbranpark@gmail. com. Three miles west of Bournemouth. From south end Wessex Way (A338) at gyratory take The Avenue, second exit. At traffic lights turn right into Western Road, then at bottom of hill left. At church turn right into Western Avenue.

Sunday, April 26, 2pm–5pm. Admission £7, children free. Home-made teas. Visits also by arrangement.

Created over 50 years, the award-winning garden offers enormous variety with rose, courtyard and woodland gardens, herbaceous borders and cherry tree and camellia walk. Lush foliage and vibrant flowers give year-round colour and interest, enhanced by wood sculpture and topiary. Gardening Which? said: “This secluded and magical one-acre garden captures the spirit of warmer climes and begs for repeated visits. Plants, homemade jams and chutneys for sale. Wheelchair access to three-quarters of the garden.

CHIDEOCK MANOR

Chideock, Bridport DT6 6LF. Mr & Mrs Howard Coates, www.chideockmanorgarden. co.uk. Two miles west of Bridport on A35. In centre of village turn north at church, the Manor is a quarter of a mile along this road on right. Saturday, April 11, and Sunday, April 12, 2pm-5pm. Admission £10, children free. Home-made teas.

12 acres of formal and informal gardens. Bog garden

Spring is here and gardeners are welcoming visitors as part of the National Garden Scheme

beside stream and series of ponds. Yew hedges and mature trees. Lime and crab apple walks, herbaceous borders, colourful rose and clematis arches, fernery and nuttery. Walled vegetable garden and orchard. Woodland and lakeside walks. Fine views and much variety. Partial wheelchair access.

IVY HOUSE GARDEN

Piddletrenthide DT2 7QF. Bridget Bowen. Nine miles north of Dorchester on B3143. In middle of Piddletrenthide village near The Piddle Inn. Saturday, April 11, and Sunday, April 12; Saturday, May 16, and Sunday, May 17, 2pm-5pm. Admission £5, children free. Tea, coffee and cake.

A steep and challenging half-acre garden with fine views on a south-facing site in the beautiful Piddle Valley. Wildlife-friendly garden with mixed borders, ponds, greenhouses, a polytunnel and large ‘no dig’ vegetable and fruit garden. The ‘rewilded’ upper slopes offer peace and quiet. Daffodils, tulips and hellebores in quantity for spring openings. Steep terrain. Run on organic lines with plants to attract birds, bees and other insects. Insect-friendly plants usually for sale. Honey

The

and home-made jams available. Beekeeper present to answer queries.

BROOMHILL

Rampisham, Dorchester DT2 0PT. David and Carol Parry, 07775 806875, carol.parry2@ btopenworld.com. 11 miles north-west of Dorchester. From Dorchester A37 Yeovil, nine miles left Evershot. From Yeovil A37 Dorchester, seven miles right Evershot. Follow signs. From Crewkerne A356, one and a half miles after Rampisham Garage left Rampisham. Follow signs.

Sunday, April 19, (2pm5pm). Admission £5, children free. Home-made teas.

A former farmyard transformed into a delightful, tranquil garden set in two acres. Clipped box, island beds and borders planted with shrubs, roses, grasses, masses of unusual perennials and choice annuals to give vibrancy and colour into the autumn. Lawns and paths lead to a less formal area with large wildlife pond, meadow, shaded areas and bog garden. Orchard, vegetable and cutting garden. Gravel entrance, the rest is grass, some gentle slopes.

THE OLD RECTORY, LITTON CHENEY

Litton Cheney, Dorchester DT2 9AH. Richard and Emily Cave, 01308 482266, emilycave@ rosacheney.com. Nine miles west of Dorchester. One mile south of A35, six miles east of Bridport. Park in village and follow signs.

Sunday, April 26, and Wednesday, April 29, 2pm–5pm. Admission £8, children

free. Tea, coffee and cake. Visits also by arrangement April 26 to September 30 for groups of up to 20. Steep paths lead to beguiling four acres of natural woodland with springs, streams and two pools, one a natural swimming pool planted with native plants. Formal front garden, designed by Arne Maynard, with pleached crab apple border, topiary and soft planting including tulips, peonies, roses and verbascums. Walled garden with informal planting, kitchen garden, orchard and 350 rose bushes for a cut flower business. Woodland garden, spring tulips, orchard blossom and walled garden.

EDMONDSHAM HOUSE

Edmondsham, Wimborne BH21 5RE. Julia Smith, 01725 517207, julia.edmondsham@ homeuser.net. Nine miles north-east of Wimborne, nine miles west of Ringwood, between Cranborne and Verwood. Edmondsham off B3081. Wheelchair access and disabled parking at west front door.

For National Garden Scheme: Monday, April 6 (2pm-5pm). Every Wednesday, April 8 to April 29 (2pm-5pm). Admission £5, children £2. Cash only. Tea, coffee, cake and soft drinks available 3.30pm4pm in Edmondsham House on Wednesdays only.

Six acres of mature gardens and grounds with trees, rare shrubs, spring bulbs and shaped hedges surrounding a 16th century/18th century house, giving much to explore including a 12th century church next to the garden. Large Victorian walled garden is productive and managed organically – since 1984 –using ‘no dig’ vegetable beds. Wide herbaceous borders planted for seasonal colour. Traditional potting shed, cob wall, sunken greenhouse. Coaches by appointment only. Some grass and gravel paths.

Hit musical stopping off

HIT musical Blood Brothers is visiting Bournemouth Pavilion as part of a spring tour, The epic tale of Liverpool life started as a play, performed at a Liverpool comprehensive school in 1981, before opening at Liverpool Playhouse in 1983.

The musical has since triumphed across the globe, completing sell out seasons in the US, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and Japan, and

scooping four awards for Best Musical in London and seven Tony Award nominations on Broadway.

Blood Brothers, by Willy Russell, tells the story of twins separated at birth who grow up on opposite sides of the tracks only to meet again with tragic consequences.

Blood Brothers is in Bournemouth from Tuesday to Saturday, April 14-18.

Swing thing

SWING Easy Too will be playing a free admission afternoon concert in The Showbar at the Mowlem in Swanage tomorrow (Wednesday, April 1).

The band, featuring bandleader Andrew Cannon and

other talented local musicians, will perform favourite numbers from the Great American Songbook.

Swing Easy Too welcome old and new audiences, regularly playing at The Grand Hotel and Holme For Gardens. They are at The Showbar from 2pm.

Explorer’s tales of the Nile

FORMER British Army officer, explorer and author John Blashford-Snell will be speaking at Bridport Arts Centre on ‘The Conquest of the Blue Nile’ on Wednesday, April 1. Tickets, priced £12, are available from the arts centre website.

Blashford-Snell also founded Operation Raleigh and the Scientific Exploration Society.

Grieg- Ave Maris Stella

Events Arts & Entertainment

Quick takes on life adventures

THRILLING adventure is promised when The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour visits the Regent Centre in Christchurch.

The festival features two new collections of short films from remote corners of the planet, including extreme climbing, kayaking, mountain biking and more.

“Immerse yourself in a night of gripping adventure – up on the big screen!” said tour director, Nell Teasdale.

“The Banff Mountain Film Festival showcases the year’s most inspiring stories of adventure, with cutting edge expeditions, extraordinary human resilience and the enduring magic of wild places.”

The documentaries are introduced by a compère and each screening will see a free prize giveaway to win ‘outdoorsy’ goods from the tour’s partners.

The films are chosen from hundreds of entries into the Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival, held every November in the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

“Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or simply love great storytelling, this year’s films offer something for everyone,” added Nell.

The tour visits Christchurch, on Wednesday and Thursday, April 22-23. For more information and to book tickets, see www.banff-uk.com

Spotlight Diary

Diary entries are £6 plus VAT per entry. The deadline for the April 13 issue is NOON on Thursday, April 2. Call us on 01963 400186 or email adverts@blackmorevale.net. Please call prior to attending events listed to ensure they are still on.

TUESDAY

WAREHAM CAMERA CLUB ‘26 PROGRAMME

Parish Hall 7.30pm Wareham - unless on Zoom

Visitors welcome - £3

Zoom link available from website March 2026

7th Best of Year Print & PDI

14th Speaker Mike Martin - ‘My Journey into Creative Portraiture’ - Raffle

Zoom 21st Bristol Salon - Entries from around the World to Music

28th Duncan Print, PDI’s Knockout & PDI Panels

May 5th AGM & Awards

SATURDAY

18.30 WHIST DRIVE at St Mary’s Church, Rectory Classroom, Swanage. Every Saturday. Tea and coffee provided. Very friendly group. Contact Richard: 01929 553516

Saturday

Frank – Panis Angelicus

Brahms – Geistliches Lied Hassler – Dixit Maria

Mendelssohn – Verleih uns Frieden Reger – Unser lieben Frauen Traum

Bruckner – Locus Iste Mozart – Ave Verum

of Portugal – Crux Fidelis

Join us on a musical journey across Europe to celebrate Sacred Music from the 16 th to the 20th century!

For their financial support for this concert, thanks to: Wareham Town Council and The King’s Arms, Stoborough https://thekingsarms-stoborough.co.uk/

Tickets: £12.50 in advance or £15 on Accompanied under-18s FREE online https://www.warehamchoral.uk email warehamchoral@gmail.com phone 01202 632678 Joys in Wareham

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