The coolest news around

Chick surprise!

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

When Orchard Day Nursery took delivery of a baker’s dozen of eggs one Monday, little did they think that by Friday (26 February), they would have twelve healthy chicks in their midst.

To the delight of the children, all but one of their incubated eggs hatched. “It has been a real success,” said Debbie Appleby, the pre-school owner.

For photograph and full story see mid-March issue of Viewpoint Magazine.

New pre-school building is the biz!

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Officially opened by Ruth Bussey and Pam Law, the Hillside Pre-School Early Learning Group are now making the most of their new home.

The £200,000 Rollalong building offers space, light, warmth and security.

Built with funding from a Sure Start grant from Dorset County Council, the new building is so spacious, it now also accommodates a breakfast club and after school club and childcare is available from 8am-6pm.

Read more about the official opening in the mid-March issue of Viewpoint Magazine.

Save Our Supplements

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

North Dorset MP, Robert Walter joined celebrity Jenny Seagrove on Wednesday (24 February) to urge the Government to block Europe’s imminent bid to ban thousands of vitamin and mineral food supplements, used safely in this country for decades.

As they launched the Time Is Running Out campaign, campaign group Consumers for Health Choice unveiled thousands of posters in every British High Street, and one million postcards to lobby MPs.

Under the EU Food Supplements’ Directive, retailers will be unable to sell vitamins and supplements at anything more than meaningless doses. Dorset’s chemists, supermarkets, and healthfood shops will be cleared of all other products by 31 December.

At the moment, higher-dose supplements, all within proven safe limits, are taken by consumers helping stave off everything from general tiredness, SAD syndrome and coughs and colds to PMT and restless legs.

At the campaign launch, Bob insisted: “Consumers must be allowed to have free access to safe supplements of their choice.

“I am a firm opponent of the proposed Directive. It imposes a completely unnecessary restriction on freedom of choice for all those who use vitamin and mineral supplements to benefit their health and well-being.

“There is much anger among consumers. The commitment to keep supplements available was made in 2005 under the Blair Government, yet almost five years later the Government has failed to implement its own policy.

“I will do my best to protect the expected store closures and the thousands of jobs that could be lost by denying the public their right to choose.”

Sue Croft, Director of CHC, the active group behind the highly successful Save-Our-Supplements campaign said: “We do feel very let down. The Food Standards Agency was instructed to fight our corner in Brussels; they accept that our supplements are safe - yet they have failed to speak up for British people. As things stand, doses of all vitamins and all minerals could be reduced to meaningless amounts - such an outcome would be catastrophic.

“This Government should wake up, keep its promises and block this burdensome and meddlesome legislation.”

Half-price for locals to see the fish

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Following the success of its exclusive residents’ offer last year, the seafront attraction is once again providing everyone with a BH postcode the opportunity to enjoy the Oceanarium for half price.

As one of the only attractions in Bournemouth to extend such an offer, anyone providing proof of their BH postcode next month will be able to enjoy the aquarium, with up to three friends, for 50 per cent off the normal admission price.

For further information about the Oceanarium please call 01202 311993.

Wildlife friendly gardens competition

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Dorset Wildlife Trust has joined forces with the Gardens Group to launch a competition to help recognise the important contribution gardeners are making to the conservation of the county’s wildlife.

Joy Wallis, People and Wildlife Co-ordinator at Dorset Wildlife Trust, said: “The countryside and other urban open spaces are often unwelcoming, sterile and do not have the range of micro-habitats many gardeners supply.

“We want to encourage gardeners across the county who are providing a haven for wildlife. The judges will be looking for gardens, however small, that welcome wildlife and so form a vital stepping stone between other suitable habitats.”

The Wildlife Friendly Garden Competition is open to all Dorset gardens, from a small patio to a large garden, which is more of an integral part of the countryside. Judging will be in different size categories and entries can be from individuals, community or school gardens, a group of neighbours or even a whole street. Gardens will need to provide a variety of sources of food such as nectar-rich flowers, seed and fruit planting with various sources of water, shelter and places to breed.

Entry to the competition is free. Forms are available to download from www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/wgc or www.thegardeneronline.co.uk, or from Castle Gardens, Sherborne, Poundbury Gardens, Dorchester and Dorset Wildlife Trust centres at Brooklands Farm, Lorton Meadows and the Urban Wildlife Centre. Closing date is 10 May.   For more information, please contact Joy Wallis at Dorset Wildlife Trust on 01305 264620.

Prizes, which include a wildlife friendly collection of plants, gardening vouchers and books, will be presented by renowned eco-gardener Clive Farrell at a wildlife friendly gardening event at Castle Gardens, Sherborne on 15th July.

Wildlife Friendly garden features could include:

Wildlife Pond
Bog or permanently wet area
Bird bath
Bird Box
Wild flower meadow
Long grass area
Nectar rich flower border and bushes
Mixed Native Hedge
Mature native tree
Log pile and/or substantial decaying tree stump
Compost heap
No-go area
Climbing plants/trellises suitable for nesting and
Slug pellet free

Car wash to raise dosh

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

The sixth formers are part of a group of younger pupils, teachers, and local church and community members hoping to travel to Ethiopia in October with the charity CRED to run activities for children in Addis Ababa.

The sixth formers are trying to raise £1,050 each to pay for the ten-day trip and are organising several fund-raising events and are appealing for business sponsorship.

A car wash was one money boosting idea and others include a raffle, cake sale and an ‘a la carte’ dinner experience.

“We went to Addis Ababa last year with a group of six students and made a massive connection with the children there,” said school chaplain, James Sharp.

“The trip also created a fantastic buzz around school with many more of our pupils eager to take part.

“Our aim is to continue building our special relationship with our African counterparts and create a lasting legacy.”

The activities for the slum children being organised by Oakmead pupils will include arts, crafts and games, while staff will train African teachers to carry out similar work.

If you can help, or to find out more, please contact Mandy Woodford at the school on 01202 774613 or email MWoodford@oakmead.bournemouth.sch.uk

Cut-price bike lights offered to Bournemouth cyclists

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Subsidised bike lights will be dished out to cyclists at a special cycle safety event in Bournemouth on Thursday, 25 February 2010, thanks to an idea from a police officer and a local councillor.

Between 7pm and 8pm at The Shack Youth Club in Muscliff, cut-price bike lights will be given out to the first 50 people who turn up. The bike lights, which are normally worth £15-£20, will be able to be purchased for just £5 and will be professionally fitted by Charminster-based bike specialists On Yer Bike.

The aim of the event is to encourage more cyclists to equip their bikes with lights, especially at this time of year, when the evenings are shorter and it is more difficult to remain visible when cycling.

The idea was thought up by Sergeant Steve Houston, of the Throop and Muscliff Safer Neighbourhood Team, and Councillor Anne Rey, from the Throop and Muscliff ward and supported by Councillor Derek Borthwick and Councillor Ron Whittaker, after dangerous cycling was highlighted as a continuing issue across the area.

At the event, Safer Neighbourhood Officers will also be giving advice on how residents can stay safe while cycling and ‘On Yer Bike’ specialists will be on-hand advising on and selling the latest cycle safety equipment, including locks, helmets and lights, at a reduced price.

If visitors bring their bike, they will also receive a free bike safety check from On Yer Bike.

All of the money raised on the night will be donated to the Bournemouth Lions Charity.

Sergeant Houston said: “Cycling without lights is an issue in the area and we really want to do something about it.

“It’s not just the cyclist we are concerned about, but also those drivers who have to live with the consequences of maybe knocking down a cyclist who is not easily seen.

“Sufficient bike equipment can mean ‘if you stay safe – you can stay alive’.

“We know that people are finding it hard in these difficult financial times, so by offering cut price lights – no one has an excuse not to have sufficient lighting on their bicycle.”

The reduced price bicycle lights have been funded by Throop and Muscliff ward councillors, Anne Rey, Ron Whittaker and Derek Borthwick.

To find out more about your local Safer Neighbourhood Team call Dorset Police on 01202 222222 or 01305 222222, or visit www.dorset.police.uk

The Olympic torch is on its way around Dorset!

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

A carefully constructed model of the burning torch is travelling around Dorset to herald the 2012 Olympic Games. It is being handed to from school to school within the East Dorset Education Partnership.

The first hand-over was made yesterday (22 February) from Wimborne First School to St John’s CE First School. The exciting event took place during morning assembly at St John’s.

Read the full report in Viewpoint Magazine – mid March issue.

Dorset sailing academy shortlisted for award

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

The Awards are Europe’s largest and most prestigious commercial sports awards that recognize the best the sport business has to offer in marketing, PR, sponsorship, new media, publishing, advertising and design.

After a rigorous selection process and competition from a high volume of entries, the Academy is now in the running to win the ‘Sport Venue of the Year’ Award and faces competition from the likes of Twickenham and Wembley Stadiums as well as the O2 and the Brit Oval.

The WPNSA previously won the esteemed ‘Environmental Concern in Sport’ Award back in 2008 and was the first 2012 Olympic venue to be formally completed, demonstrating its importance not only the South West but the whole of the UK.

The 16 strong judging panel selected the WPNSA for the shortlist. Judges include; BBC Broadcast Journalist John Inverdale - Former Chief Press Secretary to the Prime Minster Alastair Campbell - Paralympic Athlete Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson and Chief Executive Officer of LOCOG Paul Deighton. The final results will not be announced until May 13 at a star studded ceremony.

John Tweed, Chief Executive of the Weymouth and Portland Sailing Academy commented; “Everyone at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy is delighted to have been shortlisted for this prestigious Sport Industry, Sport Venue of the Year 2010 Award. We work tirelessly to improve the quality of services and events and it is incredibly rewarding to be recognised for this commitment.”

Moped hire wheelie gets young people to work

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Operated by Community First New Forest, the Wheels to Work scheme aims to help people aged 16 to 25 who have difficulty getting to employment, interviews or work based training, because they have poor access to public or private transport. ‘Wheels to Work’ provides the loan of a moped for up to 12 months for a small weekly hire charge.

The scheme enabled Dean to take a job in the bakery department of a supermarket several miles away from his home, working from 4am to 1pm. The unsociable hours meant that Dean had no chance of catching a bus and it was a 40 to 50 minute walk away. He wanted to save up to buy his own motorbike, but did not have the finance available to him at the time.

Having been accepted onto the Wheels to Work Scheme by Community First New Forest, Dean was provided with the Compulsory Basic Training essential to all moped riders. He was also given a helmet, gloves and high-viz waistcoat, none of which he would have been able to afford.

Able to access his new job, Dean has progressed well within the company. With the support of his employers, he is working towards a Level 2 NVQ course in bakery at University College Birmingham. Sue Ward, Wheels to Work Co-ordinator, explains, “The course was attended in one week blocks and Dean went to Birmingham on the train, not the moped!” He has two more week long sessions to complete until he qualifies next May.

After 12 months support from Community First New Forest, Dean has been able to save up for his own motorbike. Sue says, “Dean is very happy with his new motorbike and we are so pleased to have been able to help him get his career started and now become self-sufficient.”

Dean heartily recommends the scheme to others. He says, “I was very impressed by the support I received from the trainers, garage and the Wheels to Work office at Community First New Forest.” Dean concluded, “I’m sure that this career opportunity would not have happened without the help of the Wheels to Work scheme.”

New services for adults with Aspergers in Dorchester

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

A new Aspergers Syndrome Drop In Group (ASDIG) is now running alternate Wednesday from 2pm to 4.30pm at the charity’s new offices at South Grove Cottage, Trinity Street, Dorchester. The next meeting takes place on 17 February. There will be another group running from 26 February on the opposite week at The Old Town Hall, Weymouth on Friday mornings from 10.30am to 1pm.

The Wessex Autistic Society moved to the new offices recently whilst retaining their Head Office base in Christchurch. Chief Executive Bob Lowndes comments, “With its local authority partners, The Wessex Autistic Society has a shared ambition to put those who use its services in control through a radical reform and development of its community support services. This means that people with autism are able to live their lives as they wish, confident that the support services they receive are of high quality, reliable and promote their independence, well-being, and individual needs.”

This enhancement and increased localisation of the Society’s core services is crucial to delivering greater personalisation and choice to those needing services within their local community.

Nicky Woolley Community Support Service Manager (West) comments, “The Wessex Autistic Society is delighted to have expanded its services in the West of Dorset with the opening of a new facility in Dorchester town centre to increase the provision of support to children and adults with autism and to their families. Such support will include: information and advice, supported living, supported employment, supported leisure, respite care and outreach to schools and other mainstream services. We will be announcing further provisions and services once additional resources and funding are in place.”

To contact the Dorchester Community Team call 01305 213130 or email nwoolley@twas.org.uk. Alternatively visit www.twas.org.uk for regular updates.

Getting broody at the country park

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

There are over 50 nest boxes at the park and regular residents include blue tits, nuthatches, robins and kestrels. This year the boxes will play a vital role as the birds try to reestablish their numbers following the long, cold winter.

“Across the country just 10% of blue tits are expected to survive this winter,” said Austin Weldon, Assistant Countryside Ranger, Moors Valley Country Park. “But the species can recover if we help them. Blue tits are remarkably hardy. The species loses 78% of its numbers every winter, so whilst this year has not got off to a good start for them, if we can help with nest boxes and food they should be able to replenish their numbers fairly quickly.”

The blue tit, Cyanistes caerulus, is one of 60 species known to use nest boxes in this country. And the wildlife experts at Moors Valley are hoping that National Nest Box Week, which ends on 21 February, will encourage lots of people to put up a nest box in their gardens.

Visitors to Moors Valley this spring will be in for a treat. They will be able to see right inside some nest boxes without disturbing the birds. The rangers will be setting up remote cameras so visitors can view the hatching and feeding, right up to first flight,from the comfort of the Visitor Centre.

“The birds are just beginning the building process now,” said Countryside Interpretation Ranger, Katie Davies. “It is a good time to spot them darting about with bits of twig and other nesting material. By the beginning of March the webcams will be in place and we will be able to see how well they made their nests and start our very own egg watch.”

Moors Valley Country Park opens every day. For more information call 01425 470721 or visit www.moors-valley.co.uk.

More information on National Nest Box Week can be found at www.bto.org/nnbw/index.htm

Have you the Xchurch Factor?

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Organisers of this year’s Christchurch Community Celebration are looking for a special person from the borough to help open this year’s event, which is being held on 29 May in the town centre.

The event celebrates all that Christchurch has to offer in its myriad of groups, organisations, businesses, venues, sights and sounds by local citizens proud of Christchurch. And now the hunt is on for the person with the XChurch Factor.

Organiser, Nicki Burt, said: “The idea came from seeing a shop assistant in Portishead, Somerset being invited, by popular demand, to switch on their Christmas lights last year. Our event celebrates all that is good about our wonderful town, so what better way than ask its citizens who they think should open the event. Anyone can nominate anyone! Their nominee just needs to be a Christchurch resident or someone who contributes to the community, it’s not a talent contest just a quest to find someone special. ”

To nominate someone with the 'Xchurch Factor' to help open the event alongside the Mayor of Christchurch simply send the name of the person and a brief explanation of why they deserve celebrity status and send it to celebrity@FocusChristchurch.co.uk or by letter clearly marked XChurch Factor posted or handed to the Christchurch Information Centre, High Street, Christchurch BH23 1AS

The Christchurch Community Celebration began in 2009 and revived the ancient Trinity Fair, held in the town, which raised money for local causes centuries ago. Any money raised in 2010 will be donated to the New Druitt Hall appeal.

“We want an event with a party atmosphere, where individuals and groups can express what they are proud of as part of this community, see what each other are doing and have fun. To do this, they can join in, show off - or just be there to see stalls, participate in workshops, discussions and activities,” added Nicki.

Positive activities for children

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Sammy the Spider was seen at a recent Art's and Craft day held at the Heatherlands Centre. The event was sponsored by the Dorset Crimebeat Fund aimed at keeping youngsters busy during the school holidays .

Project leader John Hanrahan said, "It's great to see so many children, young people and parents getting Involved in activities within their local community and it's also a great way to reduce anti-social behaviour."

The two day event was a great success with around forty youngsters and twenty parents attending each day.

Under the sea photography

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Dorset Wildlife trust have announced the winners of the Dorset Seasearch Underwater Photograhy competition, which was launched to find the images that tell us the most about little-known species or habitats.

The winning photograph was taken by regular volunteer Seasearcher Nick Owen, whose photo of a solitary hydroid won him a free weekend’s diving.

The runners-up were: Jane Szekely, with a colourful photo of the seabed in Weymouth Bay, Mike Markey, with a photo of a rare sponge Axinella dissimilis among other sponges and hydroids at Mupe Rocks, and Richard Yorke, whose striking image shows a conger eel, goby and a prawn all together in a rocky reef in Poole Bay.

MP concerned by rise in unemployment

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

North Dorset MP, Robert Walter expressed concern over the latest unemployment figures, which show the number of Job Seekers Allowance claimants in North Dorset has increased by 10.9% on last month and by 31.4% on this time last year.

These very disappointing figures come at a time when many families are struggling to make ends meet following a surge in inflation and rising fuel costs.

And now that job centres in Wimborne and Shaftesbury have gone, jobseekers are bracing themselves for more and unnecessary difficulties. There is concern over whether the remaining Jobcentre Plus in Blandford will be able to cope with a further rise in demand for services, after a new report produced by the Policy Studies Institute for the Department for Work and Pensions, shows that many jobcentres are struggling to help jobseekers as the workload becomes unmanageable.

The report claims that support for the unemployed has been hampered by staffing, administrative and computer problems in Jobcentre Plus offices which were ill-equipped and unprepared to meet the extra demand for services – a problem that is likely to worsen locally following the recent increase in unemployment.

Bob has said:

“I am extremely disappointed by the latest unemployment figures. North Dorset will be even harder hit because the government has taken away two of our three Job Centres.

When I condemned the Government’s decision to close Job Centres in Shaftesbury and Wimborne I pointed out how important it was that these vital facilities were accessible to everyone. The latest report confirms my worst fears – that these closures have and will continue to put a huge strain on remaining jobcentres leaving them ill-equipped to cope with the workload. While the jobcentre in Blandford has done a fantastic job in tough circumstances – there is concern about its ability to continue meeting the rising demand.

“Now jobseekers will be saddled with the ‘double stress’ of finding a job as well as a jobcentre office to support their search.This is the last thing they need.Job Centre Plus is a vital service that local people need now more than ever, and yet my constituents are being forced to travel long distances to reach one when they could least do with the additional expense. The tragedy is that the people who need help the most have been abandoned as a result of the Government’s ill-conceived closures.

“I warned the Government about the effect of these closures but was ignored. Now the people of North Dorset are paying the price.”

Against all odds! Verwood Legion saved

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

The Royal British Legion who pulled the plug on the town’s New Legion club at the end of last year, found a buyer for the premises in December. In January, the buyer unexpectedly withdrew from the deal and a new one stepped in allowing the local Save the Legion Campaign to seize a lifeline. The committee is working with a new buyer, who has agreed terms with the RBL.

“This is stunning news,” says Campaign Chair Brian Giddings. “The new buyer sees great potential in the venue being used to support the community. He has agreed a new long-term lease for the premises with us, making it a win-win position all round: he gets his investment return – and we get to run a first class community club, right here in the heart of Verwood.”

For more on this story read the mid-March issue of Viewpoint Magazine.

Bob Walter MP on Radio Odstock

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Robert Walter MP (North Dorset) will be interviewed this Thursday, (18 February), by presenter Robyn Bryan for Salisbury Hospital’s Radio Odstock ‘My Special Selection’ slot.

The hour long interview, known as Odstock’s answer to Desert Island Discs, will be broadcast for the entertainment of patients and staff at this busy General Hospital, which serves many of Bob’s own North Dorset constituents.

During the one hour slot Bob and Robyn will be discussing his favourite songs and the influence they’ve had on his life and political career, which Bob hopes will be of interest to what will no doubt be a wide ranging audience.

Radio Odstock was set up in 1953 by the late Paul Mullins with the aim of boosting the wellbeing of patients for the duration of their time in hospital. It is now run by a dedicated team of 30 unpaid volunteers and numbers are set to grow. The station is broadcast within the hospital and can be accessed from the patient's bedside by the patientline television system. Patients and their families can also request music of their choice by calling a free number on the patient phones.

New presenter Robyn Bryan is keen to get as many interesting names through the door as possible and there are plans for the radio station – listed on the Hospital Broadcasting Network site – to get a website up and running soon. There are plans to expand that radio station, with two new, refurbished studios from its humble origins of the ‘Broadcasting Broom Cupboard’.

£12,800 for Dorset table

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Entered by a client in Bridport, the oak table was designed by Phillip Webb for Morris & Co. The firm established by William Morris, produced items of superb quality by the best craftsman of the day. Probably best known for the textiles and wallpapers they produced, they also produced well-designed furniture.

Originally entered at an estimate of £500-800, the bidding soared past the estimate and was secured by a trade buyer at £12,800.

Lawrences Auctioneer Simon Jones said, "Very few items of Morris furniture come up for sale, and they are always keenly contested by private and trade buyers. Arts and Crafts furniture continues to attract strong prices, primarily because of the quality and eye catching designs of this period"

Stop horse cruelty

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Liz Lynne MEP has welcomed news that her campaign to end the cruelty suffered by horses being transported long distance for slaughter has been adopted by the European Parliament at Strasbourg.

Her written declaration calling for action was signed by more than 369 Euro MPs from all over Europe, and a majority of MEPs, by the deadline on the morning of 11 February 2010, so it has now been adopted by Parliament.

The declaration, supported by World Horse Welfare, was launched before Christmas to highlight the scandalous suffering endured by many horses as they are moved in lorries and trailers.

Speaking at the Parliament in Strasbourg yesterday, Liz said: "This is very good news for everyone campaigning to stop animal cruelty in Europe. The European Parliament has agreed with a petition signed by 120,000 citizens to demand action to end this appalling and unnecessary suffering of horses.

"Euro MPs from all parties have looked at the evidence uncovered by charities that EU rules meant to protect the welfare of horses during long distance transport are being flouted, resulting in appalling cruelty.

“Now that so many MEPs have signed up, the issue must now go forward to be debated in the Parliament so action can be taken. I would like to thank all the campaigners from the charity World Horse Welfare for their hard work.”

Over 100,000 horses are transported long distance across the continent to slaughter every year, many of them in inhumane conditions, causing exhaustion, dehydration, injury and death.

The abuse has been uncovered by a number of charities including World Horse Welfare. Late last year Liz hosted a reception in the European Parliament at which the World Horse Welfare petition, signed by over 120,000 EU citizens, was handed over to the European Commission calling for action to correctly implement EU animal welfare rules in this area.

Among the abuses uncovered were examples of horses being denied rest stops, packed like sardines into steel lorries where temperatures can be above 40 degrees and not being properly fed and watered. Some of the horses suffer terrible injury or are dead on arrival at their destination.

New Highcliffe Castle beach steps opened

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

The Mayor of Christchurch, Cllr David Flagg was joined by ward councillors and representatives of local residents’ associations to officially open the newly-revamped Highcliffe Castle beach steps.

Four new flights of wooden staircases have replaced worn sections. The top two sections, previously wooden staircases, were replaced with new like-for-like flights.

The middle section, previously a zigzag, was replaced with an all-wooden staircase, which now leads in a straight line down the cliff, eventually reaching the beach.

The Mayor said: “These new steps will not only be safer than the old ones, which were becoming costly to maintain, but they will also give a much shorter and quicker route to and from the beach now that the zigzag section has been removed.”

Joining the Mayor for the opening ceremony were ward councillors Cllr John Lofts and Cllr Myra Mawbey, council officers and representatives of Highcliffe Residents’ Association and Rothesay Drive Residents’ Association.

Water company appoints new Managing Director

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

He succeeds Tony Cooke who is to relinquish his executive duties in April after heading the water company for nearly nineteen years.

Mr Harrington, a chartered civil engineer, is currently BWHW’s Technical Director, responsible for the company’s operational and engineering strategy.

Born in Poole and educated in Wimborne, he has more than 30 years’ experience in the engineering, operations and general management of water services.

Mr Harrington said: “I am extremely pleased to be offered the chance to take over the reins of Bournemouth & West Hampshire Water.

“Tony Cooke is a hard act to follow but I am committed to ensuring that we continue to provide an excellent water supply, efficiently and at good value for money for customers in this essential service.”

Mr Cooke joined the company as General Manager in May 1991 and was appointed Managing Director in October the following year.

He is one of the longest serving chief executives in the water industry and has led BWHW through significant change.

His accomplishments at BWHW have included bringing together and combining the management of the two former companies – Bournemouth and District Water & West Hampshire Water in the 1990s – as well as continuously improving efficiency. The company is one of the most efficient in the sector.

Under his leadership BWHW has seen significant improvements in water supply and customer service. It is currently ranked as the top performing water company for service delivery in England & Wales by industry regulator, Ofwat.

Jim McGown, BWHW’s Chairman, said: “Tony has done an outstanding job. He has achieved a great deal for which the Board is grateful and now stands down with our warmest thanks and best wishes for the future. I am confident that Roger will continue to drive the company forward to ensure that our customers remain at the forefront of everything we do.”

Eleven more arrests in Operation Dismantle

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

A further 11 people have been arrested in West Dorset, as part of Operation Dismantle, a large scale intelligence-led operation to remove suspected drug dealers.

Specially trained officers attended a series of addresses across Weymouth and Portland yesterday, 9 February, where warrants under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 were executed.

Eight different residential addresses were searched in the areas including Radipole, Southill, Park District, Westham, Littlemoor and Wyke Regis.

A quantity of drugs, believed to be heroin, have been recovered and are currently being forensically examined.

Four women, aged between 29 and 46, and six men, aged between 26 and 56, all from the Weymouth area, were arrested in relation to drugs offences.

Late last night, a seventh man from Portland was detained.

On Monday, 8 February, six men were arrested after drugs warrants in Preston, Westham, Weymouth town centre and Portland.

Five men have since been charged with supplying class A drugs and one has been charged with handling stolen goods.

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.

Dorset drug arrests - Operation Dismantle

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Officers attended a series of addresses in Weymouth and Portland on 8 February, as part of an intelligence-led operation to remove suspected drug dealers.

As part of Operation Dismantle, warrants under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 were executed at nine different addresses - eight private and one commercial - in Preston, Westham, Weymouth town centre and Portland, and each address was thoroughly searched by specially trained officers.

Five men, aged between 36 and 48, all from the Weymouth area, were arrested in relation to drugs offences and a 62-year-old man from Weymouth was arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods.

A significant quantity of suspected stolen goods, cash and drugs were also found – the substances are currently being forensically examined.

Section Commander for Weymouth and Portland, Inspector Pete Meteau said, “…This operation was as a result of intelligence gathered over many months and we would urge anyone with any information to come forward and talk to us in confidence.

“It is essential that communities tell us about what is going on in their area so that we can tackle those issues that most affect local people.”

Dorset Police will continue to take part in community-based partnership work, including support for any victims of drug suppliers and improving the local communities in affected neighbourhoods.

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.

Young chef’s orginality praised

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Eve James from Shaftesbury School & Sports College produced the dish of the day to wow the judges and take the first prize in the group heat of the Rotary Young Chef competition.

The judges praised her for the originality of her menu – a starter of steamed mackerel on a bed of celeriac and apple served with a sweet and sour cucumber followed by a main course of best rack of Dorset lamb served on a rosemary lakta and braised beetroot, with a lamb and redcurrant gravy. Both courses were complemented by a sweet of lemon posset served with a home made shortbread and a compote of blackberries.

Fifteen-year-old Eve will represent East Dorset in the next stage of the competition – the district heats – along with runner up Alex Blewitt from Ferndown Upper School, plus winners of from other local heats.

District and regional heats culminate in a Britain and Ireland final in May, the winner taking home £250 and enjoying a trip to the Italian olive groves.

Sign up now for the March run

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Now is the time to get your application in for the Ferndown Rotary Club Charity Run to be staged at the Avon Heath Country Park on Sunday, 21 March.

The club is aiming to raise £2000 this year, all of it to be ploughed back into supporting activities for local youngsters.

As in previous years there’s a 2.5km course for youngsters (up to 12-years-old), with 5 and 10km courses for adults (13 years and older).

There will trophies for winners, medals for those placed second or third, with all completing their race getting a ‘finishers’ medal.

Application forms can be downloaded from: www.ferndownrotary.co.uk or obtained over the counter from SAM News in Ferndown and from local athletics and fitness clubs. Alternatively, applications can also be completed on line via: www.runnersworld.co.uk

Dorset car crash - woman airlifted to hospital

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

The Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance flew a woman in her 20s to hospital this morning (Thursday, Feb 4) after she had been trapped in her crashed car for more than two hours.

The woman’s car crashed into a garden beside the A30 between East Stour and West Stour, near Shaftesbury, at about 10 am.

She suffered head, arm, and leg injuries, and air ambulance paramedics treated her inside the car while firefighters worked to release her from the wreckage.

The Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance then took less than 20 minutes to airlift the patient to the Royal United Hospital, Bath.

Buzzard killed on nature reserve

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Nature reserve wardens were shocked to find that a buzzard had been shot on Upton Heath on 2 February. After the stricken bird of prey was reported to Dorset Wildlife Trust staff by a member of the public, wardens Sam Hamer and Nigel Brooks found it close to the A35 on Upton Heath.

It was taken to be examined by Nick Ridge, of Dorset Wildlife Rescue in Creekmoor, who said: “There is not much doubt that it was shot by an air gun and I am fairly sure it was an air rifle.”

The unfortunate bird could not be saved as its main wing joint was shattered. Apart from distress at the death of the bird, Nick expressed concern about the implications of the incident, adding: “Nobody should be firing an air rifle on Upton Heath, especially so close to the main road.”

Nigel Brooks, Dorset Wildlife Trust Warden, said: “Whoever did this was breaking the law - buzzards are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 – and also putting the public in danger. Fortunately this is a very unusual incident and we would appeal to the public to help us and the police to stop it happening again.”

Information about this or any other wildlife crime should be reported to the police on 01202 222222. Dorset Wildlife Trust wardens can be contacted on 07970 552679.

The taste of Dorset in your cuppa

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

One of the UK’s most established tea packers is celebrating its 75th anniversary with the launch of a signature infusion toasting the company’s home county of Dorset.

Spicers says its black tea will appeal to a consumers’ view of Dorset as the birthplace of quality food on the south coast and fill a gap in an already successful market which has seen other brands from the county flourish.

Dorset Tea is now available in Waitrose stores throughout the county and other major chains are in discussions to start stocking it soon.

Black tea currently accounts for 78 per cent of the UK’s annual £552m tea market, with the local produce market for last year valued at £4.8 billion.

“This shows us that black tea is the largest product in the tea sector,” said Alistair Lee, sales and marketing director, “but also consumers want to see more locally produced goods on their shelves.

“Consumers expect nothing less than perfection in locally produced goods and this is why we’ve created this special blend.”

He says more than seven decades expertise in buying and blending teas from around the world has taught the company that taste is paramount for British consumers. Teas from Kenya, India and Ceylon have been specifically chosen for this great new cup of tea.

“We are therefore proud and excited to use this signature blend to represent Spicers,” he added.

Established in 1934, Keith Spicer started blending tea in his Bournemouth home and began supplying Dorset businesses.

The company grew rapidly becoming an important supplier to the local hotel and catering industries and by 1970 had moved to purpose built premises in nearby Ferndown.

In 1992 it was acquired by the family-owned Laurens Spethmann Holdings of Hamburg, one of Europe’s largest tea packing operations.

Spicers is a founder member of the Ethical Tea Partnership and is proud to be a partner of the Dorset Wildlife Trust.

A day on Brownsea for your CV

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Are you 16-25 years old and living in the Bournemouth, Poole or Christchurch area? If so, Dorset Wildlife Trust is offering you the chance to volunteer with them on beautiful Brownsea Island in Poole Harbour.

Young volunteers will spend the day learning about the surrounding environment and helping to protect the wildlife of the Island by taking part in conservation work.

Dorset Wildlife Trust manages just under half of the National Trust owned island as a nature reserve, including the internationally important lagoon, the pine woods that are home to Britain’s native red squirrel and the reed beds and alder carr – haven for water voles, kingfishers and water rails.

Amanda Broom, People and Wildlife Officer at Dorset Wildlife Trust, said: “Volunteer work is becoming increasingly important for young people, so don’t miss out on your chance to enhance your CV and stand out from the crowd! You will also be helping to protect the important habitats of this magical island for the future.”

The Brownsea Youth Volunteering Day is on Sunday, 21 February from 10am-3.30pm and, best of all, is completely FREE of charge, including lunch, refreshments and the boat to and from the island. All volunteers will receive a certificate to provide evidence of their hard work.

Book your place now at www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/vol-day-brownsea.html or call 01202 642780 for more information.