The coolest news around

Plant sale at the Priest’s House Museum

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

The Friends of the Priest’s House Museum are offering the perfect opportunity to pick up a few floral bargains on Saturday 9 May from 10am onwards. There will be a wide selection of plants to tempt green-fingered customers.

Once you have browsed the stall, visitors can explore the Priest’s House Museum, with admission just £1. There are fascinating local history displays and new exhibitions, ‘Seeds of Change – Food and Farming’ and ‘Love and Marriage’, to discover. You can also wander through their award-winning walled garden, with many of its beautiful trees and plants coming into full-bloom, and visit the Boathouse Tearoom.

The plant stall will be outside the Museum’s back gate, adjacent to the library in Wimborne. Admission to the Museum is not required to visit the plant stall. It is advisable to get there early! For further information, please contact the Priest’s House Museum on 01202 882533.

Scarecrows Galore!

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Scarecrows have been cropping up all over Dorset this spring, as community groups got together to enter the Dorset Wildlife Trust Scarecrow Competition. Entries came from right across the county, from schools, villages and groups, with scarecrows ranging from the traditional to the innovative.

Winners of the Best in Show award were The Friends of Lodmoor Country Park with their environmentally friendly scarecrow. St Peters Pre-School from Poole went for a nursery rhyme with a rural flavour, with their Little Boy Blue scarecrow, which won the Best Children’s Scarecrow award, while Yarrells School in Upton took the Best Community Effort award for their elegant lady scarecrow, made from recyclable material. The school was also inspired to organise their own Eco Day.

The competition was judged by DWT Chairman, Tony Bates, who said: “'The Dorset Wildlife Trust was delighted with the entries for the Scarecrow Competition. An amazing assortment of bits and pieces were used to make some that would scare the most adventurous crow. Congratulations to the winners and well done all those who took part!'

Competition organiser Kizzy Brown, Fundraising and Marketing Manager at DWT, added: “The entries were incredibly varied, a wonderful event all round!”

DOGS need homes - fundraising continues

Sun, 26 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Waggy Tails Rescue, the local animal charity that finds homes for abandoned dogs, lost its Ferndown clinic last October. Ironically, this means it has nowhere to temporarily house the dogs, except in a few foster homes.

The charity is ferociously fundraising to find enough money to buy its own sanctuary. Recent events include Sally Troth’s ‘bag-packing,’ which raised £400 in just six hours and the Waggy Tails’ Easter Fair with stalls and competitions that brought in £1000.

More assistance is needed. If you, your family or office would like to help with their fundraising, check out the website www.waggytails.org.uk where there are ideas for everyone. Or phone 01202 875000 and talk to Cindy.

Also, more foster homes are needed desperately. Ring Cindy if you think you can help give a needy dog a home.

Wimborne Mayor’s goodwill gesture goes a long way

Sat, 25 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Vicky Oddie and her grandmother were having lunch outside Cloisters and enjoying the clement weather in Wimborne when the Mayor of Wimborne, Councillor Robin Cook and his wife walked passed after selling their St George's Day roses.

Vicky said, “We asked them if they had any over because normally my grandmother would walk into town to buy her own, but due to ill heath had been unable to do so this year.”

The mayor apologised because he had none left and after talking for a while, he and his wife went on their way.

Within a few minutes, Vicky saw the mayor returning with a beautifully wrapped single red rose and he presented it to her grandmother, with his compliments.

Vicky said, “She was absolutely thrilled, and I am sure slightly flattered. The reason this gesture was so special is that on St George’s Day some years ago, I lost my grandfather and my grandmother lost her soul-mate and this generosity of nature has given my grandmother something good to think of on St George’s Day instead of something bad.

“I would love to thank the mayor and his wife for making this happen and to let Wimborne know that if this is anything to go by, Wimborne has made a great move by electing somebody with a such a large heart.”

Oceanarium reels in chef Ramsay

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

He was spotted with son Jack serving up a tasty treat to the award-winning attraction’s most famous residents, green sea turtles Friday and Crusoe, surrounded by surprised visitors.

Tomatoes sliced, carrots chopped, cabbage torn, peppers and pak choi diced, turtle’s salad … done!

Gordon Ramsay feeding green sea turtles at the Oceanarium, Bournemouth Gordon Ramsay and son Jack with Oliver Buttling, Group Curator at the Oceanarium.

Police appeal after serious assault in Bournemouth

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Officers are also appealing for passing motorists at the time of the assault to contact detectives as soon as possible.

The incident in which a 19-year old woman from Bournemouth was knocked to the ground by a man happened on Wimborne Road – between Cemetery Junction and Stokewood Road – between 3.30am and 4.15am on 21 April 2009.

Detective Constable Mark Colborne, of Bournemouth and Poole CID, said: “This was a cowardly attack on a young woman as she was making her way home next to the cemetery and I am determined to bring the culprit to justice as soon as possible.

“I am keen to identify and speak to a man seen walking behind the woman as I need to establish his motives and what his intentions may have been.

“I would also like to speak to the passing motorists – including a taxi driver – pictured on the CCTV as well as a man seen walking in the same direction as the woman but on the Rushton Crescent side of Wimborne Road because they could have important information that could help my investigation.

“All calls will be treated in the strictest confidence and I am interested in any information, no matter how unimportant or irrelevant people may believe it to be,” explained DC Colborne.

The victim, who was knocked unconscious, sustained minor injuries, later waking up, calling a member of her family on the phone and walking home.

Detectives are awaiting the results of forensic tests in their hunt to find her attacker.

The man that detectives are searching for is described as white, aged in his late twenties or early thirties, around six feet tall and with short mousy hair.

At the time of the offence, the man was wearing a short-sleeved shirt, blue denim jeans and white trainers.

DC Colborne continued: “I am appealing to anyone who witnessed this assault, and anyone who has any information about the man responsible, to contact me urgently.

“It is quite possible that someone, somewhere – perhaps several people – knows, or suspect that they know, who was responsible for this attack and I would urge them to do the right thing and contact Dorset Police in confidence.”

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 01202 222 222 or the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.

Christchurch celebrates St George’s Day

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

The bells of the Priory church rang out and the highlight of the occasion was the Mayor of Christchurch, Cllr David Flagg, raising a toast to the patron saint of England from the balcony of themayor’s parlour in the High Street.

The mayor and fellow councillors then distributed English beer and apple juice to passers-by and encouraged them to take a cream tea in the parlour.

The mayor said: “I’m very proud to have been part of these celebrations. We need to take more pride in ourselves, be more patriotic and celebrate our patron saint’s day.

“It was a very successful day and we look forward to expanding our activities next year.”

Fundraising for CAB

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Visitors enjoyed the delights of the garden at The Glade, Woodland Walk, Ferndown for the first open day of the season. The weather was perfect for the 350 visitors and the Friends of East Dorset CAB were kept busy serving tea and home made cakes. The event raised £369.48 for the charity. The garden opens again on 3, 17, and 31 May from 2 - 5.30pm.

West Moors Plantation – THE FUTURE

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

A free guided walk to discuss the future of West Moors Plantation will take place on Saturday 25 April at the main entrance of the wood off Elmhurst Road, West Moors.

There will also be two drop in events on 28 and 30 April between 6pm-7.30pm. For further details call the Forestry Commission on 02380 283141.

Now What? - a seminar on the Grief Journey

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Dr Bill Webster, director of the Centre for the Grief Journey, will be visiting the Hub in Verwood to give a seminar on caring for the bereaved.

Born and educated in Scotland, Dr Bill Webster moved to Canada to become married. After his wife suddenly died, he struggled to come to terms with the loss. As part of his doctoral work at the University of Toronto, he made a study of the grieving process. He has developed grief support programmes in many communities and has extensive experience in helping people come to terms with their loss.

Acknowledged as a dynamic, personable and practical speaker, Dr Bill Webster combines his own story with his knowledge and sense of humour to effectively communicate his message.

The seminar at the Hub is sponsored by Nicholas O’Hara Funeral Directors and is free. The date is 11 May and professionals are invited at 12 midday; the public are invited at 3pm and you can just turn up. For further information or if you wish to book a place, please contact Nicholas O’Hara, 38 Rowlands Hill, Wimborne, Dorset BH21 1AW. Telephone 01202 882134, or contact the Grief Journey on 0141 942 5855.

The pressure’s on

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Of the 160 shoppers passing the Barrington Centre in Ferndown who voluntarily took advantage of a free blood pressure check, eight were recommended to see their GP as a matter of urgency. A further thirty-nine recorded higher than normal readings and were prompted to see their GP, just in case.

The event run by Ferndown Rotary Club is just one of many being staged in association with the National Stroke Association as part of Rotary’s country wide Stroke Awareness campaign.

If you missed the Ferndown checks, you can visit Verwood on 25 April for a similar event being held on Ferret Green by Verwood Rotary. A white tent will be there between 10am-3pm for free blood pressure checks.

Build up to 2009 British Beach Polo Championships 10-11 July

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Preparations are now well underway for the return of the British Beach Polo Championships to Sandbanks, Poole, which will also see rival teams from England and the USA go head to head in an international polo match for the first time ever on British sand.

Johnny Wheeler from Sandpolo Ltd says: “Building on the huge success of last year’s inaugural Championships, 2009 promises to be a phenomenal event and Sandbanks is set to host the exciting sport of beach polo for the next five years. The British Beach Polo Championships combines this extremely exciting spectator sport with the spectacular surroundings of the most exclusive beach community in the country. To these ingredients add the finest of hospitality and good company and visitors have an experience to remember.”

There are a host of sponsorship packages, corporate hospitality opportunities and ticket options available to make the event accessible to all. General admission to the tournament is £35 per day, the Polo and Party tickets cost £70 and table packages cost up to £300 per head.

Swanage Railway praised by Transport Minister

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

The fact-finding visit to the Swanage Railway, organised by South Dorset MP and Schools Minister Jim Knight, took place on 14 April 2009, just two weeks after the first train ran from London to Swanage since the line was closed by British Rail in January, 1972.

Describing the 37-year old plans to re-open the rail link as “highly credible”, backing for the project from Lord Adonis came during a whistle-stop visit to the volunteer-run Swanage Railway – which has been rebuilt from nothing since 1976 – during a five-day tour of Britain’s railways.

The Transport Minister said that he would be holding a meeting to discuss the financing and time scales of re-signalling work at Worgret Junction – as part of Network Rail’s Poole to Wool signalling renewal scheme – to accommodate a regular train service between Wareham, Corfe Castle d Swanage.

After his visit, Lord Adonis described the Swanage Railway as being a “large, enthusiastic and highly professional team”.
Clearly delighted with his visit to the Swanage Railway’s re-laid Purbeck Line, Lord Adonis said: “I have had a great trip. The key issue is the re-signalling and whether it’s going to be possible.

“I have undertaken to host a meeting at the Department for Transport with all parties – including Jim Knight, the local authority, the Regional Development Agency and Network Rail once detailed costings have been obtained to see if we can fund the work so that re-signalling can take place.”

Lord Adonis added that he was keen to see whether the potential of a Swanage Railway linked to the national railway network so a permanent train service could be run from Wareham could be explored.

The Transport Minister also praised the Swanage Railway for not only its heritage steam operation but also its community service which he described as, “An excellent public service highly appreciated by the community.”

Swanage Railway chairman Mike Whitwam said: “The visit by Lord Adonis was very positive – he said that he would explore how we could fully reopen the rail link from Wareham to Swanage with a daily train service.

“The visit was a significant step forward towards achieving that long-held ambition which dates back to 1972 when British Rail closed and lifted the line.

“We were delighted that Lord Adonis took time out of his hectic tour of Britain’s railway system to come to Swanage and we are also grateful to South Dorset MP Jim Knight and Lord Faulkner for their help and interest in our project and aspirations,” explained Mr Whitwam.

Wonder web at Moors Valley!

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Over two hundred children swarmed over the spectacular new spider’s web at Moors Valley Country Park and Forest when the brand new play structure was officially opened on 16 April.

The first to climb the huge 100’ x 60’ rope and wood construction was world record-breaking mountaineer, Rhys Jones from Copythorne in the New Forest.

The event was part of a fundraising effort to help disadvantaged local children, and Moors Valley came together with Wave 105’s Cash for Kids for the official opening. Rhys is one of the charity’s celebrity supporters and unveiled the new spider’s web to highlight the charity’s work in the south.

The Spider’s Web is the latest addition to the Moors Valley Play Trail. The trail takes children on a route through the Moors Valley pine forest, stopping along the way for play on a variety of structures including a crocodile crossing, and snake pit.

The creation of Otterbourne-based sculptor Andy Frost, who designed and built a number of other pieces of play equipment in the park, the web is a wonderful new addition to the Play Trail. Or as one young visitor said, “it’s the best thing I’ve ever climbed on!”

Magic’s back!

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Thanks to the local community and the support of the media, Magic the miniature pony has been safely returned to his owner, Jodie Holland.

Ten-month-old Magic, whose primary role is as a therapy pony, was stolen from his field in Longham, Dorset, in March and in an effort to find him, Wave 105, launched an on-air appeal for his safe return.

Magic was found in Southampton and owner Jodie said: “I along with everyone who helps look after Magic is thrilled to have him home. Thankfully, I had Magic microchipped, so when the police were notified of his whereabouts and scanned his microchip they knew it was him. It will be a couple of months before he can visit the children at Julia’s House children’s hospice as some of our other ponies do, as he needs to recover from his ordeal, but he’ll be back in no time! There has been so much support from local media and we owe a special thank you to the Wave 105 listener who found him.”

Wave 105 teatime presenter, Andy Jackson said: “We had numerous calls with potential sightings and we are pleased that our on-air campaign helped contribute to the safe return of Magic!”

Leigh Park residents: Have your say!

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Members of the Leigh Park, Wimborne community are invited to the first PACT (Partners and Communities Together) public meeting to be held at Wimborne Rugby Club to raise the issues which concern them in the local area. These can be discussed with the local police and the Leigh Park Safer Neighbourhood Team and Partner Agencies to include local councillors and Housing Association. Everything will be put forward for consideration by the PACT panel for action. The date is 7 May from 7-8pm – this is a change of date.

West Moors Plantation – THE FUTURE

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

A free guided walk to discuss the future of West Moors Plantation will take place on Saturday 25 April at the main entrance of the wood off Elmhurst Road, West Moors.

There will also be two drop in events on 28 and 30 April between 6pm-7.30pm.

For further details call the Forestry Commission on 02380 283141.

Buy a brick and help build foundations

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

A thousand special sponsors are being sought under a new ‘buy a brick’ campaign to help fund Christchurch’s new Druitt Community Centre.

By donating £250 each, the sponsors will give a solid foundation from which the steering group for the centre can bid for further funding from charitable trusts.

£1 million is needed for the project, which will replace the ageing hall behind the library in the High Street. Christchurch Community Partnership is hoping that people will ‘buy a brick’ either as an individual donation or perhaps to commemorate a loved one or celebrate a birth or anniversary. The names of the donors will be recorded in the community centre.

Sandra Prudom, chairman of the Druitt Community Centre Steering Group, said: “We need a good foundation for our fundraising campaign to enable us to bid for funding from charitable trusts. Many trusts like to see evidence that the community is behind a project before they give funding. If ‘buy a brick’ is successful, that will give us £250,000 which is a long way towards the million that we need.

“However, we realise that £250 might be too much for some people to give, so we are also looking for people to give any amount they can afford. Details of how to donate money are on our website www.thenewdruittfund.org.uk as well as ideas for getting involved in fundraising activities.”

Leaflets about the ‘Buy a Brick’ campaign are available from the Civic Offices, Christchurch Information Centre, the libraries and other venues throughout the borough.

The New Druitt Community Centre will be a landmark building in the very heart of Christchurch and a fitting gateway to a newly restored Druitt Gardens. As the town centre community centre with a hall, meeting rooms and café space it will be available for a wide range of community organisations and activities.

Thoughtless disposal of fishing tackle killing wildlife

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

A recent example has seen a great black-backed gull whose feet had become entangled in a large fishing float and who had probably tried to bite it off, so getting its beak entangled as well. The dead bird, which had probably drowned, was found by a member of the public on Steamer Point beach and handed to the Council’s Countryside Service.

Senior Countryside Officer, Peter Holloway, said: “It’s distressing to find wildlife that have had to suffer a terrible end due to remnants of fishing tackle. Of course we understand that tackle can get lost and broken but this recent case acts as a reminder to anglers who are out fishing this summer.

“We would ask people not to leave tackle lying about and to take any disused tackle home with them to dispose of in the correct way.”

Catch the ‘Breeze’ in Poole

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

The ‘Summer Breeze’ family firework fun sponsored by Breeze Volkswagen will take place every Thursday evening from 4 June for 13 weeks.

During June and July, the summer programme is on the Quay featuring a host of family fun activities, street entertainment, live bands and a spectacular fireworks finale which will light up the harbour. Then, in August, Summer Breeze moves to Sandbanks to create a lively continental atmosphere at Poole's stunning beach location. Featuring live music, beach sports, delicious summer BBQ's and family fun activities, each week the event finale will be a fireworks display over the sea. Summer Breeze on the Beach will take place on Shore Road Beach, Sandbanks, every Thursday in August from 7pm.

These hugely popular events are equally enjoyed by as many residents as visitors alike.

Furlong Easter excitement

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Hundreds of bonnets and bunnies turned out for the annual Furlong Easter Bonnet Parade in Ringwood. The bonnets were decorated in happy Easter colours of yellows and greens and pinks, and hats were covered in coloured eggs, improbable chickens and festive flowers.

The Furlong donkey Pedr (pictured) looked delightful in his Easter bonnet and had his helpers by his side all dressed in fancy Easter costumes.

The Mayor and Mayoress Brian and Jacquie Terry judged the bonnets with the help from some of the Furlong shop managers and Count Backwards, who also performed a magic show before the judging.

The winners in all three categories received large Easter eggs, plus vouchers from Toys of Ringwood and family tickets to Liberties Raptor and Reptile Centre.

The colourful parade around the town was led by the Dolphin Marching Band.

"It was a great success with lots of bonnets and bunnies in the contest... A really happy occasion which signifies to me the beginning of spring," said Belinda Charlton, the organiser of the event.

Tasty fund-raiser

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

The Great Dorset Dinner 2009, which saw 88 delightful dinner parties held across the county in one evening, raised an incredible £100,000 in aid of Julia’s House and Naomi House.

Stunning Dorset houses, from stately homes to manor houses and cosy country cottages, opened their doors to 1,400 guests on Saturday 7 March with the sole aim of raising funds to support life-limited children and their families who live in Dorset.

The unique event, which was only possible thanks to a special organising committee, also hosted a Silent Auction that was beamed into all of the dinner parties taking place that evening, while online bids were also accepted prior to the event.

Eggs-hibition time

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

The Easter Fair at Wimborne First School included the offical opening by the deputy mayor of Wimborne of the Clock House. The building will enable the children to embark on more out door class activities.

Children dressed in their own personally designed Easter bonnets and Helen and Jay from Sainsburys Ferndown, who helped sponsor the event had the eggstremly hard choice of selecting a winning child from each year group for their eggs-hibition where children decorated an egg.

Youngsters receive police award

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Three youngsters have been given awards by Wareham West Safer Neighbourhood Team for helping a 10-year-old schoolgirl who became impaled on a piece of wood when she fell down a disused pit in Wool.

Sadie Barnett, from Wool, was playing with friends when she tumbled nearly 20 feet down the embankment of a disused pit off Lower Hillside Road on 15 March 2009.

Her brother, Tyler Barnett, 12, Bethany Layton-Bates, 13, Oliver Taylor, 13 – all schoolchildren from Bovington Middle School, immediately went to her aid. Tyler stayed with Sadie whilst Oliver contacted his granddad, who was a doctor, and Beth ran home to inform Sadie’s parents of the accident.

Sadie was airlifted to Dorset County Hospital in Dorchester. Following an operation to remove the stick, Sadie recovered at home and recently went back to school.

Jodi Barnett said: “The kids were just amazing, they must have been frightened and worried but they didn’t show it.

“I would like to thank all of the emergency services – they were simply amazing – I can’t believe how quick they got Sadie out of the pit.

“I hope our family never has to go through anything like this again – it was really frightening but we are glad Sadie has pulled through OK and is back to her happy self.”

PC Steve Newton looked after the young girl’s mum, Jodi, throughout the dramatic rescue, which involved help from two other Wareham police officers, Dorset Fire and Rescue Service, ambulance staff and the air ambulance. He said: “These youngsters remained calm and did all the right things, considering the difficult circumstances.

“All three contributed in some way and helped direct the emergency services to the scene quickly - it was a tricky location to find.

“They thoroughly deserve to be recognised in this way, as so often, children are reportedly so badly in the media, it’s quite rare to see acts of bravery reported.”

A police certificate and a commemorative Purbeck fossil was presented to the three youngsters recently at Bovington Middle School, Wareham by Purbeck Section Commander, Inspector Chris Weeks from Dorset Police.

EASTER AND BEYOND – some upcoming events

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Easter Trail
Follow the Easter Trail at the Priest’s House Museum and Garden, Wimborne Minster. The museum is open on Good Friday, Easter Saturday and Bank Holiday Monday 10am to 4.30pm. There is an admission charge. For further information contact 01202 882533.

Free Family Easter Fun
Hunt the Easter bunny at the Dolphin Shopping Centre, Poole. Children aged up to 12 years will love trying to find Flopsy and friends, who have mischievously hidden in stores around the centre. Simply collect an entry form, write down where Flopsy and friends have been found and enter before 5pm on Wednesday 15 April to be in with the chance to win £100 in Dolphin Shopping Centre vouchers or chocolate Easter treats from Thorntons.

Visitors also have the chance to win a further £200 in vouchers from a shop of choice or one of two ‘I Love Chocolate’ heavenly hampers from Thorntons. To enter, simply fill out the free prize draw form available throughout the centre and post it in the competition entry box outside Beales on the Main Mall before Sunday 19 April.

The Pirate of Poole will be roaming the streets handing out Easter treasure while the Play Rangers will offer the opportunity for children aged between seven and 13 years to take part in the make and take art and craft activities on Tuesday 14 April. The free fun will also continue with the Funky Little Choir who will be performing in Falkland Square on Tuesday 14 April from 12 noon until 2pm.

The Dolphin Shopping Centre is open on Good Friday (10 April) from 9am to 5.30pm and 10.30am to 4.30pm on Monday 13 April. The centre will be closed on Easter Sunday.

Giant spider web unveiling
World record-breaking mountaineer, Rhys Jones will unveil a new and spectacular wooden play sculpture at Moors Valley Country Park and Forest near Ringwood at 2pm on 16 April. The giant cobweb is 100ft by 60ft and includes a gigantic spider.

The event will be hosted by Wave 105 tea time presenter, Andy Jackson.

Stroke Awareness Day
Organised by Verwood Rotary on 25 April at Ferret Green. Free blood pressure checks between 10am-3pm in the white tent.

Spanish Banquet at the Barley Mow
On Sunday 26 April, the Barley Mow at Wimborne is hosting a Spanish Banquet to raise money for Wimborne Hospital. The evening will include a four course meal with entertainment, including a roulette table with prizes for the winners.

The cost for the evening will be £24.50, with £5 from each sitting being donated to the charity and offering each participant £5 worth of 'fun chips' for use on the roulette table.

Places are limited. To make your booking and enquire about the menu call the Barley Mow on 01202 882140.

Marathon runners will help children’s wishes come true

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

TWO work colleagues aim to raise £3,000 between them in the Flora London Marathon for a Bournemouth-based charity which makes wishes come true for children with life-threatening illnesses.

They are among 45 runners set to boost the funds of Round Table Children’s Wish by tens of thousands of pounds.

Phil Wadsworth, 43, from Poole, and Luke Best, 35, from Bournemouth, are account managers at Ringwood-based Canotec, a photocopier technology specialist.

The 17-year-old company has a long-standing association with the charity, having raised more than £25,000 to date.

Phil last ran a marathon 23 years ago, while it is first time for Luke. Both men have pledged to raise £1,500 each.

They are notching up to 25 miles a week along the seafront in Bournemouth and Poole and will be sporting the Round Table Children’s Wish running vests during training as well as in the race on April 26.

Sponsorship can be made through www.justgiving.com/philipwadsworth or www.justgiving.com/lukebest.

Picasso drawing up for auction

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Lawrences Auctioneers in Crewkerne (Somerset) hope to achieve international attention for an early drawing by the world's most valuable artist at auction: Pablo Picasso.

"The pen and ink drawing, entitled ‘Personnages et Deux Chiens’ depicts two groups of figures with a couple of dogs," explains Lawrences' specialist, Richard Kay. "It was drawn by Picasso when he was still a teenager living in Madrid, developing his own style, and comes from a sketchbook known as Carnet 96.

“In this drawing he is clearly demonstrating his admiration for the work of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec whose pictures he would have seen during his stay in Paris from October to December 1900.

“The drawing is not signed but collectors need have no fear of its authenticity as it is stamped on the back to show that it was once in the collection of Picasso's granddaughter, Marina. Furthermore, the drawing has been exhibited in Geneva, Venice, Munich, Tokyo, Melbourne and Paris.

“Its sale coincides brilliantly with the Picasso exhibition at The National Gallery in London, `Challenging the Past` and we are hopeful that it will attract interest from Japan where there are keen collectors for this early period."

The drawing has been consigned for sale from a private West Country collection and is expected to realise £30,000-40,000. The auction is on April 24. All enquiries to richard.kay@lawrences.co.uk

Habitat Rocks

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

If you go down to the shore today, you might be surprised at what you find when you turn over a rock, says Dorset Wildlife Trust. The range of different wildlife on rocks on the shore is so great that it took a team of fifteen experts to identify and count them this week at Kimmeridge Bay. DWT Wardens invited the experts to the Purbeck Marine Wildlife Reserve to highlight the importance of this little known habitat.

Julie Hatcher, Marine Warden at Dorset Wildlife Trust, said: “The fact that over thirty-five different species were identified on a single seashore rock highlights the importance of leaving rocks and boulders exactly where they are on the beach and in the water. It’s fine to pick them up and have a look beneath, but please put them back exactly as you found them to protect the plants and tiny animals that depend on them for attachment and shelter.”

Among the wildlife found were a variety of crabs, sea-weeds, worms, sea snails and sponges. There were also periwinkle eggs, attached to seaweed on the rock, which in a few weeks will hatch into minute crawling sea snails, munching on the seaweed and hiding in the cool, damp places beneath it. While the sea-weeds like to be on top of the rock, where they soak up the sunlight to make their energy, many animals, such as crabs and sea squirts, like to be in the darkness and safety below the rock.

When returning rocks to their correct position, it is important to place them carefully so as not to squash these creatures.

The Fine Foundation Marine Centre, run by Dorset Wildlife Trust in Kimmeridge Bay, is now open most days for the summer season.

The fisher king flies in

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Kingfishers have been spotted diving in the lakes at Moors Valley Country Park and Forest near Ringwood, despite the weeks of severe winter weather they have had to endure.

A recent survey by the RSPB indicates that kingfisher numbers are gradually increasing with up to 6,000 pairs now living in Britain. However, as few kingfishers live beyond their first breeding season they are incredibly vulnerable to hard winters, which can have a devastating effect on the population as a whole. This makes it all the more reassuring to know they have survived at Moors Valley.

Well known for its rapid flight and astonishing colours, the kingfisher excavates nesting burrows in the banks of lakes and rivers. Egg laying starts in late March, and the average clutch is of six – seven eggs. As each chick then requires at least 12 fish a day to survive, fishing and feeding is very much a full time job, providing good spotting opportunities as they birds feed their growing brood. It takes just over six weeks for the fledglings to leave the nest.

Learning to be Slum Survivors

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

A group of youngsters from Poulner Baptist Church, Ringwood were in the Furlong last Saturday as part of a Soul Action initiative to raise awareness of how millions of people have to spend their lives in third world countries.

As part of the Slum Survivors project, Poulner Baptist pastor, Tim Cracknell, who is also a youth worker, organised for some twenty youngsters to discover what it is like to live in poor conditions, the way billions spend a lifetime.

The youngsters aged 15-21, camped in a field and built their own shelter from whatever came to hand: wood palettes, old tarpaulins, tin cans bits of iron and wood.

Said Tim Cracknell. "Last night they realised that they should have made their "Slums" waterproof. The project is to raise awareness, but also to make these youngsters and others like them, be more grateful for what they have already"

They displayed photographs in the Furlong of the make shift dwellings they created.

It is hoped that the experience will make them understand better how people in dire poverty have to live and hopefully make other people more aware of these sometimes forgotten masses and the importance of supporting projects such as Fair Trade.

Swanage Railway makes history

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

With thousands of excited spectators watching from next to the line, Dorset railway history was made on 1 April 2009, with the first passenger train running from London to Corfe Castle and Swanage since New Year’s Day, January 1972.

The ‘Purbeck Pioneer’ – organised by UK Railtours – departed London’s Victoria station at 8.45am, 37 years after the last British Rail passenger train ran between Wareham, Corfe Castle and Swanage.

It was an emotional day, especially for the several generations of Swanage Railway volunteers who, for over thirty years, had worked against all odds to rebuild the award-winning steam operated line from nothing.

Swanage Railway chairman Mike Whitwam said: “The whole day was very moving – I had a lump in my throat because this first train from Wareham has been worked towards since 1972.”

Among more than 400 passengers on board the historic train were father and son, Frederick and Peter Sills from Wareham, who rode on the last British Rail train from Wareham to Swanage on the night of Saturday, 1 January, 1972.

And watching the special 12-coach ‘Purbeck Pioneer’ train with a diesel locomotive at each end arriving at Swanage was pensioner and veteran railway campaigner Moyra Cross.

The 87-year-old stalwart spent four years campaigning against British Rail’s proposed closure of the line from May, 1968 – only to still campaign for the railway to be rebuilt when the line was torn up in 1972. Moyra still volunteers in the steam railway’s fund-raising shop at Swanage station.

The ‘Purbeck Pioneer’ made Dorset railway history on two counts. It was the first passenger train to run between Wareham, Corfe Castle and Swanage since New Year’s Day, Saturday 1 January 1972 and the first train to run from London to Swanage since that date.

As people crowded the pavements and fences around Swanage station, the Mayors of Swanage and Wareham, as well as other civic dignitaries, welcomed the special train and congratulated the volunteers on making history.

The driver of the train was Dave Gravell of Poole who works for the locomotive providers –DB Schenker, formerly EWS – and is also a Swanage Railway volunteer.

He said: “It was a great honour and everything went very smoothly. The weather was lovely and there were lots of people watching and waving from the side of the line between Wareham, Corfe Castle and Swanage.”

In summing up the day, chairman Mr Whitwam said, “This is an absolutely momentous day for the Swanage Railway and for Swanage. After 37 years, Swanage is no longer cut off from the national railway network. The clock has been turned back to before 1972 which is incredible and the result of a huge amount of work.”

MP supports DORMEN

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Last week, North Dorset MP, Robert Walter MP, visited East Dorset District Council (EDDC) offices to find out more about and offer his support to DORMEN - the Dorset Business Mentoring programme.

He met with EDDC’s Economic Generation Manager, Kevin Poulton, and Camilla Trimble, who runs Nazareth Lodge in Sturminster Newton and is a volunteer business mentor.

DORMEN provides one-to-one mentoring support for new and established businesses across Dorset. Since its creation in 2005, the DORMEN programme has supported around 400 businesses wishing to either develop or expand - ranging from sole traders to medium-sized companies.

All DORMEN business mentors are trained volunteers who have come forward to offer their own expertise and experience - gathered from senior positions in industry or from work as a professional – to help others wishing to set up or improve their own business.

DORMEN’s network of mentors can help guide individuals and assist companies in finding their own solutions by acting as a ‘high quality sounding board’ and a source of valuable information. Something that Bob believes is a vital resource for many smaller companies that may be lacking confidence in the current economic climate.

This unique scheme has thrived as a result of positive partnership working between Business Link, the South West Regional Development Agency, and all district, county and unitary authorities across Dorset. DORMEN accepts many of its referrals through Business Link Dorset.

A survey of the scheme’s results after working together with local companies shows amongst other things a 28 per cent increase in sales, a 47 per cent increase in employment and a marked increase in business capacity and preparedness.

After the meeting Bob said: “…There is a great deal of untapped business expertise out there and this scheme draws on that valuable and willing resource. I sincerely hope that, by highlighting this meeting, we encourage many more volunteers to come forward for mentor selection and training.

“As Camilla Trimble said, it’s about ‘Dorset people helping Dorset business’ and in my view demonstrates the benefits of using local knowledge to help the local economy.”

Anyone interested in accessing or becoming a mentor themselves should visit http://www.dormen.org.uk or contact Programme Manager Vivian Dunn on 01202 607530.

Do you recognize these items?

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Police in Weymouth are appealing for public help in identifying property seized by officers at a house in the town.

Detectives are trying to establish whether or not the seven items were stolen.

A 29-year-old man from Kent has been arrested and released on police bail while officers continue their enquiries.

The items are two British commemorative coins; an I-POD and I-POD docking station; a case of music CDs, a ball bearing gun and a watch.

Anyone with information about the property should call Dorset Police in confidence on 01305 222 222 or the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.

The Danny Cracknell Pocket Park

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

A past mayor, Danny had been instrumental in purchasing the land, which was acquired recently, together with the adjoining Pocket Park.

Following views expressed by some residents that the phrase ‘Pocket Park’ had much to commend it, the name of the park will be ‘The Danny Cracknell Pocket Park.’

The official naming will take place at 11am on Saturday 18 April, exactly one year after Danny passed away. Councillor Brian Terry, the current mayor, believes that by holding the official naming ceremony on that date it will be a fitting tribute to Danny’s contribution to the town.

Danny’s widow, Di, together with family and friends will be present with councillors for the official naming ceremony.

Encouraging cuttlefish in Kimmeridge Bay

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

A Cuttlefish Trail has been installed for another season in Kimmeridge Bay. This is the second year that this seasonal trail has been provided by Dorset Wildlife Trust for cuttlefish to breed.

Consisting of a number of open ended lobster pots secured on a shallow, sandy area of the seabed, it provides an ideal surface for cuttlefish to lay their eggs in the spring. The eggs can usually be found attached to seaweeds and rope and look like bunches of black grapes.

DWT marine warden, Julie Hatcher, said: “Cuttlefish are overfished in many areas of the UK and we hope that, by encouraging them to spawn in Kimmeridge Bay, we can help to limit the decline in their population by offering a ‘safe haven’ for them to return to every year.“

Over the summer the Cuttlefish Trail will be monitored by the K Team, the marine reserve’s group of young marine wardens, who will be checking for eggs and cuttlefish.

Cuttlefish, harmless relatives of squid and octopus, can change colour and skin texture to give them camouflage. They have a habit of following divers, possibly in the hope that the diver will uncover something edible for them.

New Chief Executive appointed

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

He replaces Alan Breakwell, who retires at the end of July after 22 years in charge.

Leader of East Dorset District Council, Cllr Spencer said, “David is an excellent candidate who has been selected from a very strong shortlist. He joins the council at an exciting and challenging time and we shall meet these challenges together. He will bring with him fresh ideas and new ways of doing things and I look forward to working successfully with him.”

David McIntosh, said: ”I am excited to be joining East Dorset. It is a beautiful part of the country and an excellent place to live and work. I look forward to joining a strong and committed team at the council and making a positive difference for the residents of East Dorset.”

Born and raised in Dundee, David is married with four children. He will take up his new post on Monday 3 August.

First village store to open in Dorset for over 40 years

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

The shop, which opens on Saturday 4 April, is believed to be the first to do so in the county for over 40 years.

The tape will be cut at 10.30am by Mrs Ruaidhri McDonaugh, in her first duty as the newly appointed High Sheriff of Dorset.

The shop is located inside the Witchampton & Crichel Club building which has been transformed in an ambitious modernisation project, providing an attractive setting with shop lock-up premises and better access and facilities for people with disabilities.

The Vale of Allen Rural Association (VARA) has established the store with the help of kind donations, the following grants, and a loan:

•    £30,000 from fundraising events organised by the local community
•    £30,000 match funding the above, by Crichel Estates Ltd
•    £10,000 donations from residents and businesses
•    £10,000 East Dorset District Council
•    £10,000 Plunkett Foundation and Esmee Fairbairn Foundation*
•    £10,000 The Co-operative Loan Fund*

The new Witchampton Village Shop will be run by volunteer residents and friends from local communities, and will offer a wide selection of produce and newspapers to suit all tastes. A coffee snack bar will follow once the shop has become established.

VARA is a non-profit mutual society whose objective is to enhance community wellbeing. Its Chair, Cllr Tim Palmer, explains: “People have come together to set up and run this local shop, which will become the focus of life for members of communities over a wide area.

I would like to thank everyone who has contributed towards making this possible”

Ian Rothwell of The Co-operative Loan Fund says: “To those outside of rural communities, it can be difficult to understand the importance of a local shop but they really are vital to small communities. Often, they provide much more than food and goods as they serve as a meeting hub for local residents and help create cohesion among communities, which is why we’re so keen to support them.”

The shop will be open on weekdays from 8am–6pm, with a middle day break, and mornings only on Saturdays and Sundays.

RSPB’s record-breaking 30th Big Garden Birdwatch

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

More than half a million people took part in the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch, counting over 8.5 million birds.

Seventy-three species were recorded in 279,000 gardens across the UK over the weekend of 24 and 25 January.

In Dorset more people than ever counted the birds with 9185 people sending in their records.

And the long-tailed tit has flown into the top ten for the first time in the survey’s 30-year history. Numbers of this highly sociable species nearly doubled compared to last year.

The increase is being linked to the mild winters leading up to 2009. Small, insect eating birds like long tailed tits are particularly susceptible to the cold as the food they rely on is hard to come by in frosts and snow so milder conditions have contributed to a higher survival rate.

Over the last ten years the long-tailed tit has also adapted to feeding at bird tables and from hanging feeders.

Whereas a few years ago most people simply put out peanuts, the increasing range of food being left out may be more suitable for birds such as long-tailed tits.

Numbers of all but one of the top ten birds have increased slightly since last year. Only starling numbers have dropped although they retain the number two slot.

Some of the UK’s most familiar species have suffered huge declines in the last three decades. The house sparrow has declined by 63% since the survey began in 1979, and the starling has dropped by 79%.

Despite this, the house sparrow retained its top spot for the sixth year running with an average of 3.70 seen per garden. The starling, which is a former number one, came in at number two with an average of 3.21 per garden. The blackbird completed the top three with 2.84 per garden (1).

The goldfinch dropped out of the top ten rankings after its entry for the first time last year. The goldfinch and the greenfinch slipped by a place each this year although both species have steadily increased in recent years.

Rhys Jones to tackle giant spider’s web

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

A spectacular 100ft x 60ft wooden spider and cobweb will be unveiled at Moors Valley Country Park and Forest by world record-breaking mountaineer, Rhys Jones.

In May 2006 at the age of 20, Rhys Jones became the youngest climber ever to conquer the highest peaks on each of the world’s seven continents, finishing on a high note when he added Everest to his record-breaking tally.

Commenting on the new play structure, Rhys said; “Climbing is one of the most natural urges that kids have.

“Giving them an opportunity to explore this sort of structure in a safe environment such as Moors Valley can improve their balance, climbing skills and confidence. And who knows, we might even be seeing some of the mountaineering stars of the future!”

As part of a fundraising effort to help disadvantaged local children, Moors Valley is working with Cash for Kids, the charity set up by the Wave 105 radio station. Rhys is one of the charity’s celebrity supporters and will be unveiling the new spider’s web to highlight the charity’s work in the south.

The event will be hosted by Wave 105 tea time presenter, Andy Jackson who will be giving listeners the opportunity to bid to become the first person to climb the spider’s web alongside Rhys Jones.

The giant spider and cobweb is being installed by sculptor, Andy Frost. Other examples of his work can already be found in the park and have been delighting youngsters for several years with their clever design and open invitation to “climb me!”

The official unveiling of the Spider’s web takes place on 16 April at 2pm.

New Planet Discovered!

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Twenty-year-old astrologer Aggra Corman of Verwood in Dorset has discovered a new planet in the universe.

News broke early this morning when Aggra had his telescope focussed on clear skies.

Being a local man, he telephoned the editor at mags4dorset immediately to stake a public claim on the planet, which he claims has never been seen before.

Aggra said, “This is the dream of every astrologer. When I picked up the outline of a new planet, I couldn’t believe my eyes and wondered if I was imagining it.

“Scanning the skies every morning with my telescope has become an obsession, but I never thought it would lead to this. I was so excited, I began to tremble, wondering if I was the only person in the world who could see it.”

Aggra has staked his claim on the planet and has decided to call it Aggracore.

He says, “Nothing is ever as black-and-white as it seems – even when it comes to our universe.”