The coolest news around

Please steer clear of wildlife sensitive areas

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

That’s the message from Bournemouth & West Hampshire Water (BWHW) to users of the harbour, particularly canoeists and sailors.

Mike Rhodes, BWHW’s Property and Recreation Services Manager, has arranged for up to forty distinctive yellow buoys to be placed in small pockets of the harbour.

They mark out areas, which act as important feeding and roosting grounds for wintering and migratory wildfowl and waders. It is hoped the buoys will discourage members of the public from drifting into these areas.

More than 320 bird and wildfowl species have been recorded in Christchurch Harbour.

Examples of common wintering species include Brent geese, Icelandic black-tailed godwit, widgeon and shelduck.

Resident birds include little egret and water rail while migratory species include avocet, greenshank, roseate tern and whimbrel.

David Taylor, of Christchurch Harbour Ornithological Group (CHOG), said: “One of the biggest problems experienced by birds is being disturbed from feeding or resting.

Councillor Sally Derham Wilkes, Chair of Christchurch Council’s Community Services committee, said: “There are a number of sensitive areas around the harbour.

“We are doing what we can to protect them and I am sure members of the public will want to do the same when they understand the reasons behind the buoyed-off areas.”

The buoys display the words ‘Bird feeding area – please keep clear’ and harbour users are asked to give them a wide berth.

Wimborne’s generosity

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

A street collection held in Wimborne last Saturday for the Shelter Box Haiti appeal raised £2500.

Leader of the project, Wimborne Rotarian Brian Dryden said, “The generosity of local people and children at various schools has truly amazed me. Over the past two years we have raised enough money to buy seventy boxes and even now people are coming into our electrical shop giving us more cheques.”

Within three days of the disaster, shelter boxes were on the ground at the airport in Haiti and more importantly there were Rotarians with them making sure they got to the right people. This is just one of the International Cooperation objectives of the Rotary organisation. More boxes are following each week.

On your marks, get set, pick up the litter!

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

The event saw 500 competitors flock to Weymouth and Portland for stage 3 of the environmentally friendly Coastal Trail Series organised by Endurancelife. There were three staggered starts with a marathon, half marathon and 10k run all setting off from the Academy.

All runners took up the challenge of picking up one or more pieces of litter along their route to then be disposed of in the recycling bins at the finish line. This ensured that all competitors improved the condition of the natural environment around Weymouth during their race.

Chris Knight, Business Manager of the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy reported:

“This is the second year that the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy has teamed up with Endurancelife to facilitate their event. Endurancelife share our passion for the local environment and the collection of litter picked up during the run was very impressive. It is a huge pleasure to know that this event has left the countryside cleaner.”

New parking restrictions in Christchurch

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Stopping vehicles on verges will be prohibited on the following roads: Salisbury Road, Stony Lane, Fairmile/Hurn Road, Bure Close.

New signs will be placed on these roads at intervals to indicate the restriction but yellow lines are not needed. Any soil or non-surfaced area counts as verge – it does not need to have grass or plants on it.

New signs and markings are also being put in place at taxi ranks to show that only licensed taxis are allowed to stop there. A broad yellow line similar those used at bus stops will be painted on the road to indicate the ranks.

Finally, From 1 February 2010 the Council will have powers to issue penalty charge notices to anyone who parks irresponsibly across dropped kerbs or who double parks.

Contravening any of these restrictions could lead to a £70 penalty charge.

Cllr Nick Geary, portfolio holder for Transport at Christchurch Council, said: “All of these restrictions are being introduced to make it easier for people to get around. Parking on verges not only damages the verge but it could also hold up traffic trying to get past the stopped vehicle.

“Taxis provide an essential service to many people in the community and this service can be seriously affected if the ranks are blocked by parked or loading vehicles.

“Parking at a dropped kerb could stop people getting into their properties or make it difficult for people with push chairs or mobility problems to cross the road at the crossing points near junctions. Double parking could hold up traffic or even stop someone parked lawfully from getting out.

“All of these actions are thoughtless and irresponsible and we now have the powers to deal with them for the benefit of the community as a whole.”

Autism Conference

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

‘Inclusive Education and Autism – Perspective and Practice,’ a conference hosted by the Wessex Autistic Society, will take place in Bournemouth in March.

Keynote speaker, Rita Jordan, is a professor in autism studies, attached to the Autism Team of Studies within the School of Education (University of Birmingham). She comments, “I am delighted to have been invited to attend The Wessex Autistic Society’s conference. Anything I can do to increase understanding, offer support and raise awareness of autism I am more than happy to do.”

Dean Beadle – a young man with Asperger’s Syndrome and motivational speaker – will describe his experience of the education system and how he developed from a ‘problem child’ to an A grade student.

“The conference will examine national strategy, individual experiences, good practice and adapting the school environment for children with autism in mainstream settings,” says Bob Lowndes, Chief Executive of the Wessex Autistic Society. “We had excellent attendance last year and are already seeing a lot of interest in this event. We would encourage people to book their places without delay.”

The event is aimed at school leaders, teachers, teaching assistants, SENCO’s, Educational Psychologists, LA officers, parents and others who have a role to play in securing appropriate education for children with autism.

It will be held at the Carrington House Hotel on Wednesday 10 March. Places are limited and can be reserved online via www.twas.org.uk. Alternatively call Nicky Edwards on 01202 703590.

Little oaks to mighty trees

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

These little oaks are flexing their green fingers, growing mighty trees in the garden of their north Bournemouth nursery.

Toddlers at the Little Oaks Nursery at Oakmead College of Technology have planted some thirty wild cherry, silver birch and rowan saplings, and there are plans to double this.

The Duck Lane nursery registered for the free trees after pupils, staff and parents collected supermarket vouchers.

“The children loved getting involved, planting the trees in their garden,” said nursery manager, Sue Williams.

“Not only does it introduce them to hands-on horticulture at an early age but it helps the school be sustainable.”

Don’t panic!

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Christchurch Council is advising businesses in the borough not to panic over the new rateable values they have received as the increase this year may not be as large as they fear.

Businesses should have now received notice of their new 2010 rateable value, which will be used to calculate their 2010 business rates bill. Business rates are set nationally by the valuation office and the council has no jurisdiction over this.

The 2010 rateable value is not the 2010 rate bill, which is calculated by multiplying the rateable value by a ‘multiplier’ set by central government each year.

But a transitional scheme has been put into place to cushion the effect of potentially large increases or decreases. This scheme is automatic, so there is no need for ratepayers to apply.

Cllr Sally Derham Wilkes, portfolio holder for Business & Tourism at Christchurch Council, said: “There may be some businesses who have received notice of their rateable value and seen that it has gone up significantly. We would say to them: don’t panic as the transitional scheme will ensure that small businesses will see an increase of no more than five per cent while larger businesses’ increase will be limited to 12.5 per cent.”

This transitional scheme will last for five years, so that businesses will experience stepped increases or decreases during each financial year.

For further information about the rateable value go to www.2010.voa.gov.uk/rli or contact the helpline on 0845 602 2010.

Small businesses – with a rateable value of less than £18,000 - can also apply for Small Business Rate Relief. If they have already been receiving this, there is no need to reapply.

The contact at Christchurch Council for business rate enquiries is Paul Bliss, Revenues Business Unit Manager, on 01202 495204 or email p.bliss@christchurch.gov.uk.

Poetry competition to ‘beat the bus bard’

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

For the last three years TYB has celebrated the romantic day by presenting red roses and cards to passengers.

The cards carry a suitably corny poem thanking people for travelling on the ‘Yellows’ throughout the year.

Now TYB has thrown down the gauntlet and invited passengers to ‘beat the bus bard’ and have their poem chosen for publication. The winner will receive chocolates, roses and a complimentary 30 day travel card.

The company has started off the first verse and is looking for at least one more to complete it.

The TYB contribution begins:
The TYB bus is more than just a way from A to B
It brings you to the things you love - your friends and family
We love to be with you each day, and on the bus we’ll meet
You never know your one true love, could be in the next seat!

Entrants can either add to this or come up with a completely new set of verses if they wish.

Entries should be emailed to valentine@yellowbuses.co.uk and the winning verse, if TYB’s bard is beaten, will be printed in the Valentine’s Day card ready for February 14.

Closing date for entries is Wednesday February 3. Entrants should include their name, address and telephone number.

Jenni Wilkinson, TYB’s Head of Marketing, said: “Our Valentine’s Day celebrations are a fun way of thanking our passengers for their loyalty.

“Put another way - it’s time again to try and beat the bard and for all you poets, that can’t be hard!”

Golf club’s year of support for Air Ambulance

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

A year of fund-raising by golf club members has ended with the presentation of a £6,300 cheque to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance (DSAA).

The money was raised by members of Chedington Court Golf Club, which spans the Somerset-Dorset border to the east of Crewkerne.

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance fund-raising co-ordinator Annette Plaistow-Trapaud said: “I was delighted to receive this cheque from Chedington Court Golf Club, which reflects an incredible amount of hard work put in by members to organise many different fund-raising activities.

“We have to find the entire cost of keeping the Air Ambulance flying ourselves because we do not receive any Government or Lottery funding, so we simply could not operate without the support of people like Chedington Court Golf Club.

“It costs £3,800 a day to keep the helicopter in the air and we are so grateful that so many people are prepared to support our life-saving work in this way and by making donations and taking part in our £1 weekly lottery.”

The Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance will officially be 10-years-old in March, and is hoping 2010 will be a record fund-raising year to commemorate the milestone.

The 10th birthday will be celebrated with an anniversary event at the Charity’s Henstridge airbase on June 12.

The Air Ambulance has attended nearly 7,000 missions since its launch in March, 2000, many of them life-saving.

More information about the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance can be found by visiting www.dorsetandsomersetairambulance.org.uk or by emailing info@dorsetandsomersetairambulance.org.uk or calling 01823 669604.

Offending rubbish removal is a bright idea

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Under the Supervision of Dorset Probation Area Supervisor, Graham Metcalfe, offenders collected eighteen large sacks of rubbish from the beach area at Wyke Regis near Weymouth.

The rubbish included hundreds of plastic bottles and was taken away by the Weymouth Council Waste Management Services.

Graham Metcalfe said, “Passers by stopped to thank us for this work who were highly appreciative.”

Mike Thomas, Unit Manager for Community Payback said, “The work was carried out following a request from a member of the public. Community Payback is becoming a very popular scheme as people are aware that they can put in a request for work to be carried out by offenders who can repay their dues to society for offences they have committed.

“We are encouraging communities to take this opportunity to identify work that they would like to see done and nominate their projects by contacting the Dorset Probation Community Payback Unit. Telephone: 01929 556513, or email: community.payback@dorset.probation.gsi.gov.uk

Aid to Haiti

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Rotarians across the district have been collecting for Haiti with the money going towards the purchase of shelter boxes and water survival boxes. Thousands of pounds have been raised locally to help the survivors and victims of this awful tragedy.

Meanwhile, Rotary clubs across Great Britain and Ireland are stepping up efforts to help Haiti recover from the devastating earthquake. Additional street collections are being arranged by clubs and contributions to the RIBI Donations Trust are arriving daily.

Rebuilding Haitian communities is expected to take years and Rotary clubs are determined to give as much support as possible.

The RIBI Donations Trust focuses on long-term, sustainable reconstruction projects aimed at getting communities back on their feet after the initial relief effort has been completed.

A special fund has been set up by the Donations Trust, which is dedicated to helping Haiti’s future. The trustees will consider how to allocate the funding to achieve the greatest benefit. This could be for projects such as new homes, a replacement hospital, community centres or schools. Continued support by Rotary helps to restore hope, the value of which cannot be underestimated.

Water Survival Box and Aquabox have confirmed that, between them, over one thousand boxes left for the stricken area this week, bringing vital aid to victims. ShelterBox is committing over 3,000 boxes to the relief effort.

Aquabox is sending 1,000 boxes to Haiti via Muslim Aid and Humanity First. This partnership approach has helped to speed up the process and maximise the benefits for victims. This week, boxes, complete with water filters and other equipment, were put on aircraft and flown into the airport at Port-au-Prince. The remaining 600 units will be shipped by sea next week, depending on the condition of the port.

Purple pinki pounds for polio

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Ferndown Rotary club is asking local schools to nominate one day in February as ‘Purple Pinki Day’ in a bid to generate the £1 million being sought as part of a worldwide initiative to eradicate the crippling, killer disease that affects children worldwide - polio.

On the day, pupils are to be invited to swap a donation of £1 - toward an immunisation programme - for the privilege of having their little finger (pinki) painted purple (the method used to identify children that have received the vaccine). Alternatively, they can choose to wear something purple.

Every £1 raised will buy sufficient vaccine to provide five children with life long protection from the disease.

Ferndown Rotary Club members are joining forces with 55000 other Rotarians throughout Britain and Ireland to approach local schools for their help in reaching the target. Rotarians will also be available to attend school assemblies to give a brief presentation on the project - providing background to the campaign.

Speaking of the campaign, President of Ferndown Rotary Geoff Lawrence said: “How fantastic for a youngster to be able to say: ‘I helped to wipe out a disease, to stop children from dying; I helped change the world.’”

Cyrus Todiwala at Christchurch Food fest

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

This year’s Christchurch Food & Wine Festival, running from 7 to 16 May, will welcome the renowned Indian chef, Cyrus Todiwala, who will be giving two cookery demonstrations on Sunday, 9 May.

Cyrus regularly appears as chef and commentator on television and radio programmes. His credits include Food & Drink, Saturday Kitchen, MasterChef, Great Food Live, Big Breakfast, Light Lunch, The Paul O’Grady Show, Talk Radio, Radio 5 Live. He is currently the resident Indian chef for UKTV Food’s Market Kitchen programme and has written three cook books.

In 2000, Cyrus was awarded an MBE in recognition of his contribution to education and training and for raising the general profile of the industry. He has just been awarded an OBE in the New Year Honours list in recognition of his tireless work to encourage skills acquisition and training within the catering industry.

The Festival programme is currently being put together and details of all events will appear on the Festival’s website at www.christchurchfoodfest.co.uk.

Give seas a chance!

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

The launch follows the passing, in November, of the Marine and Coastal Access Act (MCAA), for which The Wildlife Trusts and other organisations campaigned for nearly a decade.

The challenge for the next five years is to ensure the Act is effectively implemented – that urgent action is taken to turn the UK’s over-fished, over-exploited, and currently under-protected waters back into a thriving marine environment.

The Wildlife Trusts have a clear vision for how this should happen, and a plan for achieving it within 20 years, a single generation.

Simon Cripps, Chief Executive of Dorset Wildlife Trust, said: “Dorset Wildlife Trust wants to see and contribute to a return to a healthy marine environment, which is rich in species and a wide range of habitats, and which protects and provides sustainable livelihoods for those that rely on the resources or services it can provide.”

Battersea Dogs’ Home is not alone

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Battersea Dogs’ Home was in the news yesterday because they took in almost 500 dogs in December and have put in place a waiting list for Local Authorities because of the lack of space. They say it is partially due to bad weather preventing people from coming to their centres to adopt dogs during the past few weeks.

They are not alone. Our local dog rescue charities are also facing difficulties. They, too, have suffered from the weather. Ferndown based Waggy Tails Rescue in Dorset reported that numbers to their ‘Dog Presentation’ (a monthly meeting, showing off the dogs to public at a West Parley Hall) were very low in January. Their chairman, Shelagh Meredith said, “As our policy is not to rehome dogs into families with children in December, (due to Christmas festivities) the first presentation in January usually attracts well over 100 people. This month we had only about thirty.”

However, the waiting list situation is the norm for Waggy Tails. They do not have kennels, like Battersea, but instead, the abandoned dogs stay with foster parents until they are adopted permanently. “We find this is less traumatic for the dogs, as they are just moving from one home to another, and can be cared for on a one-to-one basis”

However, there are never enough foster parents so at any one time Waggy Tails have a list of about 20 dogs waiting to be handed over. Fostering costs nothing, as the charity pays for the dogs’ food and medical treatment. All they ask is that the fosterer is at home most of the day, and that they have no young children – they also need to be experienced dog owners too and preferably have a safe garden.

For folk who love dogs but take too many holidays to own their own pooch, it is ideal, as fostering can be just for a month or two. It is immensely rewarding, and the brief sadness of waving goodbye to your little orphan is balanced out by seeing them leaving happily with their new family.

If you would like to become a foster parent, or donate to Waggy Tails Rescue (they are saving up to buy their own sanctuary) please contact their office on 01202 875000.

Pictured is the latest dog to be abandoned. His owners told Waggy Tails they would turn him out onto the street if the charity couldn’t collect him that very day. His name is Bruno and he is a border collie cross aged about six. He has obviously had several owners and a few indications that he has been roughly handled. But he will make friends once he has had a little time to get used to you. Patience and lots of TLC for Bruno please!

More blood donors required

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) is reminding blood donors to make every effort to attend upcoming sessions, where it is feasible to do so.

The last fortnight of bad weather has led to the cancellation of some sessions across the country.

Jon Latham, Assistant Director of Blood Donation at NHSBT, said: "NHSBT is managing well in the current pattern of tricky weather conditions and is continuing to supply hospitals with all the blood that they need.

"However, we need those donors who are able to reach their local sessions to continue to do so. If you have an appointment please try to keep it and if, for some reason, you cannot attend please rebook your appointment as soon as possible. New donors are also very welcome.

"We would like to offer our sincere thanks to all those donors who have been able to attend and give blood during the bad weather."

Blood stocks are turned over within a few days and both red cells and platelets have a limited shelf-life (35 days for red cells and five days for platelets).

At the present time NHSBT is aiming to collect more of the blood group O Rh D negative, which is slightly below the normal quantity held in stock.

"O-neg" donors are typically known as the ‘universal donor’ as their blood can be given to patients with a different blood group. This can prove vital in an emergency situation when there may not be time for an immediate blood grouping test to be carried out. Approximately 7% of the population have this blood group.

To find out more about becoming a blood donor or to book an appointment please call 0300 123 23 23 or log on to www.blood.co.uk

A blood donor session will be held at Easton Methodist Church Hall, Easton Square, Easton, Portland from 1.30pm-7.15pm. Closed 3.15-4.30pm on Thursday, 21 January.

Search is on for UK’s best chefs

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

The quest to find the UK’s best chefs is underway with entries now open for the 2010 Wessex Salon Culinaire. Ambitious chefs and restaurant service professionals in employment, training or education have until 9 March 2010 to enter online.

The Wessex Salon Culinaire will be staged at the Hotel and Catering Show in Bournemouth on 16 and 17 March 2010 and for the first time in the competitions six year history it will include the WorldSkills UK Cooking, Confectioner/Pastry Chef and Restaurant Services competitions.

Those wishing to enter will be required to compete in three out of five classes in the relevant disciplines. Winners from these may be selected to represent the UK at the 2011 WorldSkills Competition, the largest skills event in the world, which will be held in London.

For further details visit www.hotel-expo.co.uk or call 01425 485040. For details on the Wessex Salon Culinaire, please contact Deborah Jones on 01425 485048 or book online www.hotel-expo.co.uk/wsc

Purbeck Pub Licence Revoked After Drug Activity

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

In November 2009, officers swooped on the Purbeck Hotel, High Street, as part of a wider intelligence-led operation to remove suspected drug dealers from addresses in Purbeck.

A warrant under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 was executed and the High Street premises was thoroughly searched.

Officers found cocaine with a street value of £600, cannabis with a street value of £450 and a small amount of ketamine (street value of £15).

On Tuesday, 12 January 2010, at Weymouth Magistrates Court, Alexis Luker, 37, the hotel’s landlady, was sentenced after pleading guilty to the possession of class A, class B and class C drugs.

Luker was given a 12 month Community Order, ordered to carry out 140 hours unpaid work, pay £85 in costs and forfeit the drugs.

Dorset Police requested a review of the Purbeck Hotel’s licence and the licensing sub-committee sat on Thursday, 14 January 2010 at Westport House, Wareham. Having heard all the evidence, the sub-committee made a decision to revoke the premises’ licence.

Individuals who gave evidence to the Licensing Panel included Purbeck Inspector Chris Weeks, Police Licensing Officers Caroline Wateridge and Karen O’Donnell, and Swanage Town Safer Neighbourhood Officer Dave Cox.

Purbeck Section Commander, Inspector Chris Weeks, said: “We will not tolerate illegal drug activity in Purbeck.

"There will be more arrests and we will continue to target, not only the homes of those people we believe are involved in the supply of drugs, but also their workplace, a pub, a club or any other place where drugs or stolen property changes hands.

“The reason a warrant was executed at the Purbeck Hotel was based on intelligence that implicated the management of the venue as being involved.

“This clearly undermines the licensing objectives regarding crime and disorder and public safety. Therefore, it was necessary to request the revocation of the Purbeck Hotel’s licence, as this type of criminality has no place in our society. “

Thousands Raised for Autism Charity

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

The 9th annual Nationwide Somerley 10k & 5k run, held within the grounds of Somerley Estate, attracted hundreds of runners recently and raised over £9,000 for The Wessex Autistic Society.

International ultra distance runner, current Scottish 100km champion and husky trainer, Sandra Bowers, who lives in Salisbury, competed in the 5k race and was the first female to cross the line. Running with two of her Siberian huskies, Sandra’s time was 18 mins and 46 seconds . The second and third ladies were Carole Smith from Weymouth (21mins 27secs) and Ginette Craig (25mins 28secs).

Sandra comments, “I had been really looking forward to this event as I find short runs are helping with my speed for my ultra distance training. But I lost one of the husky dogs over the Christmas period which made it incredibly difficult to run this event as we are all in mourning for Kai who was 14. As it turned out I think it was the best thing I could have done both for myself and the other dogs. We all really enjoyed the day and it was so uplifting to hear so many people say they had come to the event just to see the huskies. They are great companions and training partners.”

The first male across the 10k finish line was Lee Piercy who got a hat trick by winning the race for the 3rd consecutive year in a time of 34 minutes flat. Lee lives in Wick in Christchurch and is a keen supporter of The Wessex Autistic Society. 2nd and 3rd male finishers in the 10k were Eddie O’Gorman of High Wycombe (34mins 35secs) and Nick Buis of Southampton (35mins 33secs).

The first male across the 5k finish line was Kevin Archer from Weymouth in a time of 18mins and 01 second. Second and third were Southampton based Nathan Ranyard (18mins 32secs) and Roland Turnell-Ritson (18mins 57secs)

The first female to finish the 10k race was Jenni Harley of Chichester in a time of 40 minutes and 53 seconds. Second and third were Bournemouth based Corinne Clarke (43mins and 38secs) and Julie Humphries from Odiham, Hampshire (44mins 11secs).

Millie Gollings, Community and Events Fundraiser at The Wessex Autistic Society comments; “Over 800 runners attended the event and helped raise over £9,000 this year. We are really pleased with the turn out and thank everyone for taking part. We couldn’t have done it though without all our incredible volunteers and also extend our gratitude to Lord and Lady Normanton for use of their land. Ena’s Florists in Westbourne donated wonderful bouquets for the winners and Lush in Bournemouth also contributed to the prizes. The day ran really smoothly and we are grateful to everyone who helped to make this such a successful event especially our main supporter Nationwide.”

Anyone wanting to volunteer for the charity is encouraged to call the fundraising team on 01202 703597.

Not Suspicious

Sun, 17 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Detectives investigating a report that a woman appeared to be forced into a vehicle outside Bournemouth railway station are reassuring the public that the incident was not suspicious.

Following extensive enquiries, officers have concluded that the report from a man and a woman walking past the railway station at around 7.30pm on Thursday 14 January 2010 was a false alarm with good intent.

Detectives are thanking the public for their help – and thanking the media for their assistance in promoting a witness and information appeal.

A Dorset Police spokesman said: “This was a false alarm with good intent and we would like to thank the man and the woman for raising the alarm because they were understandably concerned about what they saw.

“Our detectives have made extensive enquiries in the vicinity of the railway station, the transport interchange and the Asda supermarket and they have concluded that there was nothing suspicious or sinister about what was seen.

“Our enquiries – including examining closed-circuit television footage – have concluded that the three people, a middle aged man and woman together with a younger woman, knew each other.

“We have established from witnesses that none of the three people looked distressed and they seemed comfortable in each other’s presence.

“We would like to thank local businesses and transport operators in the area of the railway station for their help in quickly providing closed-circuit television footage for our detectives to examine,” explained the Dorset Police spokesman.

The incident in which a man and a woman looked as though they were forcing a woman into a blue car happened outside Bournemouth’s railway station off Holdenhurst Road at around 7.30pm on Thursday 14 January 2010.

The dark blue saloon-type car was parked on double yellow lines by the taxi rank at the south side of the station building – opposite the Asda supermarket and the bus and coach transport interchange.

The alarm was raised by a man and a woman who were walking past the railway station when he saw a man and a woman of Asian appearance holding another woman by the arms and forcing her into the rear of the car. The second woman was also of Asian appearance.

A Dorset Police spokesman said: “Public safety is our prime concern and we were concerned for the safety and welfare of the woman seen being put into the car. It was important that we ensured that the woman was safe.”

Appeal after woman forced into car at Bournemouth Station

Sat, 16 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Detectives in Bournemouth are appealing for witnesses and anyone with information to come forward in confidence after a woman appeared to be forced into a vehicle outside the town’s railway station.

The incident in which a man and a woman were seen to force a woman into a dark blue saloon-type car happened outside Bournemouth’s railway station off Holdenhurst Road at around 7.30pm on 14 January.

The car was parked on double yellow lines by the taxi rank - opposite the Asda supermarket and the bus and coach transport interchange.

Officers are keen to hear from anyone who may have seen the incident.

The alarm was raised by a man who was walking past the railway station. He saw a man and a woman of Asian appearance holding another woman by the arms and forcing her into the rear of the car. The second woman was also of Asian appearance.

The vehicle, which is believed to have been displaying a foreign registration, then drove out of the station approach at speed.

A Dorset Police spokesman said: “Public safety is our prime concern and we are concerned for the safety and welfare of the woman seen being put into the car.

“It’s important that we ensure that the woman is safe and establish the motives for the man and woman’s behaviour. There could be a perfectly innocent explanation.

“This incident happened at a busy time of day – a train from London had arrived at the railway station some ten minutes before. There were also a number of coaches that would have driven through the travel interchange around the time of the incident.

“The member of the public who saw this was understandably concerned about what he saw and immediately contacted Dorset Police by dialling 999.

“We are appealing for the people involved in the incident to come forward and contact Dorset Police in confidence as soon as possible,” explained the Dorset Police spokesman.

The man that police would like to speak to is described as being in his late 30s to 40s, between five feet nine and five feet eleven inches tall, of slim build and with short dark hair. He was wearing a dark jacket and light coloured trousers.

The woman is described as being aged in her late 30s to mid-40s, five feet seven inches tall and of medium build. She was wearing a light coloured headscarf.

The woman seen being put into the car is described as being younger than the other two, and of slim build. She was wearing a brown one-piece outfit and a headscarf.

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.

Great News for the Piddle Valley

Sat, 16 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Mark and Emily Hammick are pleased to announce that this year The Gaggle of Geese has won the Rural Enterprise award for the Wessex region in the Countryside Alliance Awards. The couple also won last year with their other pub the European Inn.

The Countryside Alliance Awards, now in their fifth year, aim to celebrate the characters, skills, traditions and enterprise of the countryside through the people who work so hard to make it tick. This year’s awards attracted a record 2,500 nominations from the public.

Mark and Emily were delighted to get through to the finals for the second year running and Mark said, “It is also good to see that in the Daily Telegraph Traditional Business Award category. Mendit Rug and Tack, from Piddlehinton, Dorchester, were the Wessex winners. Great news for the Piddle Valley. “So we will both be off to the House of Lords 3 February for a reception where the national winners will be announced.”

The Gaggle of Geese is at Buckland Newton near Dorchester.

‘No Excuse’ road safe launch

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

North Dorset MP Robert Walter is attending the official launch of the Dorset Road Safe ‘No Excuse’ campaign at Kingston Maurward College tomorrow, (Friday, 15 January).

Road safety is a key issue in Bob’s constituency - which contains several single-track A road accident black spots - so he welcomes this combined crack down by the police, highways department, fire and rescue service and county council to tackle bad driving across Dorset.

Announced back in November, the official ‘No Excuse’ launch will see Dorset Police officers begin working at a variety of locations across the county in a total of 250 two-hour shifts.

This concerted effort is an attempt to reduce significantly the number of people killed or seriously injured as a result of irresponsible driving – be it through the use of mobile phones, distraction by in-car entertainment systems or as a result of inappropriate speeds. Drivers not wearing seat belts or consuming food and drink at the wheel will also be targeted. The campaign is planned to run for a full year.

Friday’s meeting offers a packed agenda and will be opened with an introduction from Robert Smith, Road Safety Manager for Dorset County Council. Attendees will also hear from Professor Steve Stradling of Edinburgh Napier University on driving myths and Chief Inspector Bob Nichols and Pat Garrett of Dorset Police on the enforcement strategy and driver education.

Bob said: “Despite great efforts from Dorset County Council, Dorset Police and our Fire and Rescue Service, rural Dorset suffers from a higher than average volume of single-track A roads. Their twists, turns and blind spots hold many dangers for irresponsible drivers, who in turn risk the lives and loved ones of others.

“I therefore welcome this joint ‘zero tolerance’ approach to cracking down on the causes of death and serious injury on our roads. I very much hope that the driving public will also play their part by accepting and understanding the need to raise awareness of what is and isn’t acceptable on our often tortuous country roads.”

Grow your own - Ringwood garden share

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

The first steps are taking place towards a new garden share project in Ringwood. If progressed, the scheme will help the community of South Ringwood to produce its own food. The initiative, which is being developed by Community First New Forest, is aimed at families who want to grown their own produce but don’t have a garden and at people who have a garden but are unable to maintain it.

Debbie Grace, Community Development Worker at Community First New Forest, explains, “We want to work with organisations, groups or individuals who will help us engage the community to empower local people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. We are looking to create opportunities for people to grow their own fruit and vegetables in a green and sustainable manner and in the process make a positive impact on their surroundings and environment”.

Community First New Forest are currently looking for land or gardens that could be accessed in Ringwood. The aim is to seek help and support from a range of partners until the project is self-sufficient.

As part of the consultation process, Community First New Forest will be holding a public meeting on Thursday 4 February 2010. The meeting will take place at New Forest District Council’s Public Offices in Ringwood from 5.30pm to 6.30pm. Debbie says, “We would particularly like to meet people who are interested in growing their own and who have nowhere to garden and people who own a garden which isn’t used.” Debbie added, “We also welcome anyone with a general interest in the scheme”.

To find out more contact Debbie Grace at Community First New Forest on 01425 482773 or email debbie.grace@cfnf.org.uk

Keep your horse happy in the cold snap

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

The British Horse Society has seen an increase in the number of welfare cases reported over the last few days and is urging owners to take a few simple steps to keep their horses happy and healthy during the current cold snap.

BHS Senior Executive (Welfare) Lee Hackett said: “We have received huge numbers of calls to our welfare line reporting horses in distress. Although well meaning, quite a number of them have turned out to be unfounded, as horses generally cope quite well with cold weather even though they may look quite miserable! However, there are some steps that owners can take to ensure that their horses don’t become genuine welfare concerns.”

Horses generate a lot of heat from fibre digestion which is one of the key reasons that they can handle cold weather. The BHS recommends that a constant supply of forage (for example hay) is available to all horses, even those turned out in snow covered fields. Horses that are confined to their stables should have their hard feed reduced and forage levels increased in order to keep them warm and prevent them from putting on weight.

A constant supply of water is essential but buckets and troughs will freeze over very quickly in such cold weather so they need to be checked, and the ice broken, as regularly as possible throughout the day. The BHS has received reports that some vets have seen an increase in the number of colic cases as thirsty horses drink large quantities of freezing cold water. To prevent this, make sure that the horse has access to water at all times so he doesn’t feel the need to drink large amounts in one go, and add a little warm water to their buckets where possible.

Shelter is paramount, and not just from the snow. Wind chill makes a big difference so there should always be somewhere for a horse to escape the gales. Rugs should not be seen as an alternative to shelter but they are important, particularly for older and finer horses. Unclipped, healthy native bred ponies will often manage fine without a rug as long as adequate shelter and forage is available.

The BHS Welfare Department is happy to talk to any horse owners concerned about how best to manage their horses in the cold weather and they can be reached on 01926 707804 or at welfare@bhs.org.uk

mags4dorset supporting the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

mags4dorset is supporting the Air Ambulance throughout the charity’s 10th anniversary year. Each month we will be reporting on rescues and giving you facts about this lifesaving charity, which has no government funding and has to rely entirely on donations and fundraising.

It may surprise you to learn that it costs £1.4 million a year to keep the air ambulance flying and mags4dorset aims to encourage as many people as possible to make donations.

Yesterday, the editor at mags4dorset, Janine Pulford and graphic designer, Louis Pulford visited the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance base at Henstridge. “Whilst we were there,” said Janine, “The Air Ambulance was called out and it was quite an experience to see the paramedics Mark Williams and John Penny climb aboard with the pilot Phil Merrit to attend their first call of the day.”

Read about the mags4dorset visit in the February issue of Town & Village.

Have you been rescued by the air ambulance? If so, and you would be happy to talk about the experience, please email us through the website or telephone 01202 870270

Land required in West Moors for allotments

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Additional land suitable for allotments is required in and around West Moors. The West Moors Allotment Holders Association (WMAHA) is looking to purchase, rent or lease the land to satisfy the current demand for allotments.

If you can help, contact Mike Holloway or email wmaha@btinternet.com.

PCSOs give free security advice in Dorset villages

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

A door-to-door high-visibility campaign to help reduce burglary in the Ferndown villages of West Moors, St Leonards, St Ives and Ashley Heath was launched today, Monday 11 January 2010 by Safer Neighbourhood Teams, Special Constables and Home Watch.

Homes in 40 roads will be visited by officers including Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) and Special Constables (SCs) over the next two weeks.

They will be knocking on every door on every street in the area offering advice on improving home security and giving out Home Office security information packs and UV property making pens.

In addition to the door-to-door visits, extra officers will be patrolling the area on foot in order to detain or detect any offenders.

West Moors, St Leonards and St Ives Safer Neighbourhood Officer, PCSO Ben King, said: “East Dorset remains one of the safest places to live in the country, however, following a spate of offences; we are carrying out door-to-door visits to raise awareness of home security and increasing foot patrols in the affected areas.”

He continued: “The most effective and affordable way for residents to protect their homes from burglars is by fitting and using appropriate window locks.

“By adding a few extra precautions, it makes it much more difficult for burglars to enter or steal from your property.

“Ultimately we want to reduce the number of burglaries occurring in the area.”

For further advice or information about improving home security, contact your local Safer Neighbourhood Team on (01202) 222 222 or visit www.dorset.police.uk

New pond species revealed in Dorset

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

One year into a project to save one of the UK’s top sites for pondlife, amazing new species are being revealed for the first time. Scientists working with Dorset Wildlife Trust on East Stoke Fen nature reserve have discovered an astonishing variety of minute aquatic organisms, so small as to be invisible to the naked eye.

East Stoke Fen, managed by Dorset Wildlife Trust for landowners and project partners the Freshwater Biological Association, is coming under the microscope of scientists from Queen Mary University of London, based at the FBA’s River Laboratory at East Stoke, who have already found over 30 species of invertebrates smaller than half a millimetre (so called meiofauna) and over 100 single-celled species (ciliates) in less than two months. The reserve’s reed fen, on the floodplain of the River Frome near Wool, is a rare and declining habitat in Dorset.

Now, with funding from the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, the Wet Fens Project is being launched to study ‘cryptic biodiversity’ (biodiversity invisible to the naked eye) and raise awareness so that it can be protected in pond and fen management.

Dr Genoveva Esteban of Queen Mary’s School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, said: “Cryptic biodiversity helps natural ecosystems to bounce back in response to environmental change. The Wet Fens Project in partnership with Dorset Wildlife Trust and the Freshwater Biological Association is pioneer work in the UK, to link research with conservation practice with the aim of incorporating small organisms into wetland conservation management. Local biodiversity conservation will become all-embracing by covering the full range of aquatic organisms that contribute to the proper functioning of an ecosystem– not just those judged as ‘charismatic.’”

Dr Rachel Janes, Dorset Wildlife Trust’s Pond Project Co-ordinator, said: “It is very exciting to learn about these incredible animals on our reserve, thanks to the work of the scientific team. The Wet Fens Project will help to protect them for the future, alongside the more visible aquatic wildlife.”

The Wet Fens Project will be launched this month at a seminar to celebrate the first year of the 2-year Purbeck Important Ponds Project, which was launched in January 2009 by Dorset Wildlife Trust and funded by Biffaward, - a multi-million pound environment fund which utilises landfill tax credits donated by Biffa Waste Services, the Environment Agency and the Dorset AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), to safeguard one of the UK’s foremost regions for pond biodiversity. Purbeck ponds are an aquatic hotspot for wildlife, including nearly all of the known British dragonfly species as well as the rare great crested newt.

Stanpit Marsh and dogs – local views sought

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Christchurch residents are to get a chance to give their views on a proposed Dog Control Order for Stanpit Marsh Nature Reserve in a public consultation starting on 18 January.

The Order would mean that dogs would have to be kept on a lead when being walked in the nature reserve.

The current by-laws for the nature reserve were written in the 1970s. Since then the Marsh has become much busier and wildlife has come under pressure from a number of factors including the impact that dogs running off a lead are having on resident and migratory birds.

The current by-law concerning dogs on the Marsh states that dogs should be kept ‘under proper control’, but Countryside staff have found this ambiguous and difficult to enforce.

Cllr Sally Derham Wilkes, chairman of Christchurch Council’s Community Services Committee, said: “We want to hear what users of the nature reserve have to say about these proposals. It’s important to state that dog walkers and dogs will still be welcome on the reserve and dogs will also still be able to run freely off a lead on the 17-acre recreation ground which is immediately adjacent to the Marsh. However, on the more sensitive area of the nature reserve the order would require dogs to be kept on a lead no longer than three metres in length.”

The public consultation lasts until 1 March and copies of the consultation can be viewed at libraries, the Civic Offices, Stanpit Marsh Information Centre and the Information Centre in the High Street. The consultation document is also available on www.dorsetforyou.com.

All responses will be taken into account by the Council’s Community Services Committee when deciding whether to implement the Dog Control Order.

Puppy love at the Furlong

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Visitors to Santa in his Gingerbread House in the Furlong were invited to donate to Woofability, a charity dedicated to training assistance dogs to help the disabled.

Jennie Clarke, accepting the cheque, is herself disabled. She and her husband Andy set up the charity a year ago, and now have ten dogs going through a two and a half year training programme.

Each dog costs about £5,000 to buy and to train, and they have already raised £20,000. Jennie said, “We are so delighted with our time in the Furlong this Christmas and we would like to thank all the Furlong shop keepers and their customers for making this possible by supporting our charity.

“As a thank you to them we would like the Furlong to have their own dog. We already have a creamy white 9 week old Golden Retriever who could be labeled as the Furlong sponsored puppy. We could bring her regularly to the Furlong to show how she is progressing.

" At the moment the puppy does not have a name, so any suggestions for a good name would be apprieciated. The puppy has already got a host family at Ashley Heath, but in four weeks time she must move on. We would like her to remain in Ringwood area."

Anyone wanting to host a puppy or would like to suggest a name for the Furlong puppy, please call Jenny Clarke on 01202 872671.

Security advice following spate of burglaries

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Police in Bournemouth and Poole are encouraging residents to keep their homes secure following a series of burglaries across the conurbation.

The Rossmore area of Poole and the Ensbury Park, Kinson and Springbourne areas of Bournemouth have suffered from a recent spate of burglaries – with the offenders often gaining entry to the properties through insecure windows and doors.

Acting Sergeant Aston Starkie, of Bournemouth and Poole police, said: “Following this recent series of burglaries in parts of Bournemouth and Poole, I am reminding residents of the importance of keeping their properties secure.

“It is also important that residents do not leave valuables on display in their homes, such as cash, jewellery, laptops and games consoles. These are all items that have been stolen recently from homes during the recent series of burglaries.

“The number of burglaries in Rossmore, Ensbury Park, Kinson and Springbourne has increased since early November and I am keen to bring those responsible to justice.”

Members of the public with any information relating to the recent burglaries, or anyone who has seen anything suspicious in these areas, should contact Dorset Police on 01202 22 22 22 or call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.

Acting Sergeant Starkie continued: “Earlier this week, there have been three attempted burglaries across the Bournemouth and Poole conurbation where offenders have not been able to gain entry to the property due to doors being dead bolted. This highlights the importance and effectiveness of keeping all windows and doors securely locked.”

Dorset Police has issued the following crime prevention advice to remind the public about some simple but effective measures that can be taken to reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim of these crimes:

·   Lock all windows and doors when leaving the house.

·   Do not leave keys in windows or doors. Ensure they are in easy reach for the occupants of the house but not accessible or in view to anyone trying to get in. Remember they will be needed in the event of a fire.

·   Ensure the house alarm is always set when leaving the house and it is in good working order.

·   Lock and secure the shed or garage with a good quality padlock and consider an alarm if high value tools and bikes are stored within.

·   Lock bikes and tools away.

·   Consider installing outside lights.

·   Ensure that side gates have good locks, bolts and padlocks.

·   Use timer switches if away from the house and ask a neighbour to look after your property and put dustbins in and out.

·   Do not leave empty cardboard boxes of new electrical items out for refuse collection – this shows that there is new electrical equipment in the house.

·   Security mark your property. Take photographs and note down any serial numbers, identifying features – but do not keep this info on your computer.

Witnesses and anyone with information should contact 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.

Kayakers charitable donations

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Following their recent charity kayaking expedition in France, the Munro’s Mariners team handed over the money raised to three very worthy causes yesterday, (7 January 2010).

Almost £15,000 was collected by the Munro’s Mariners, which smashed their original target of £10,000, in honour of their friend and colleague Inspector Neil Munro who tragically died in 2008.

Representatives from each of the charities received their cheques at a special presentation ceremony on Poole Quay. The money was split between the Special Boat Service Association, the Neo-Natal Unit at Poole Hospital and the Dorset Police Benevolent Fund.

The Munro’s Mariners team, made up of 21 staff and officers from Dorset Police, completed the 70-mile charity kayaking expedition in France – following in the fearless footsteps of Second World War commandos in the daring Operation Frankton in 1942 .

The team took to the water on Saturday, 28 November, from Pointe de Grave in south-west France. They kayaked over four days along the Gironde and Garonne rivers, finishing at Blaye, near Bordeaux, on Tuesday 1 December. They had to contend with strong winds, horizontal rain and some nasty blisters and strains during the expedition.

The majority of the team returned from France on 2 December. However, expedition member and Dorset Police Superintendent, Mick Rogers, PC Gary Jones and the High Sheriff of Dorset Vicky McDonaugh stayed on until Saturday 5 December to complete the 103-mile walk originally completed by the ‘Cockleshell Heroes’ of Operation Frankton.

Gill Clark, from Weymouth, is the daughter of Bill Sparks, one of the original ‘Cockleshell Heroes’. Gill attended the presentation event at Poole Quay yesterday. She said: “The amount of money that they have raised is amazing.

“They did really well to complete the challenge and they will have needed to have done so much training to complete it.

“All of the hours of kayaking they had to do in those conditions, which can be treacherous, is a fantastic achievement.”

Expedition member and Dorset Police Superintendent, Mick Rogers, said: “I and the rest of the team are very proud and pleased that we completed this very physically and mentally gruelling challenge in memory of a very fine and highly respected police officer. I’d like to thank the many people who have supported us.

“We initially aimed to raise £10,000 for these three very worthy causes, but to have exceeded that target by almost £5,000 is a tremendous achievement and we were delighted to hand over the cheques.”

Mystery donation helps charity

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

New Forest Nightstop, the charity which gives free meals and accommodation to homeless young people in the New Forest, received an anonymous donation just before Christmas, but the kind people or group who collected the money did not leave their names.

New Forest Nightstop, part of local organisation Community First New Forest, want to thank the anonymous donors for their kind Christmas gift of £203 cash, made up of coins and notes, which was delivered to their Ringwood office in an envelope on Christmas Eve.

Sue Roberts, Nightstop Co-ordinator, said: “It was great to receive this unexpected donation especially at this time of year and we would like to extend our thanks to the kind people who collected the money. Their thoughtful awareness about homeless young people at Christmas means that their valuable contribution has gone towards free meals and accommodation provided by our volunteer host households in Ringwood and around the New Forest.”

New Forest Nightstop provides emergency accommodation to homeless young people aged 16 to 24 throughout the year. A young person approved to use Nightstop can receive one to five nights’ free accommodation in a supportive family environment while getting further advice on housing and employment.

Anyone interested in joining New Forest Nightstop’s well-established and friendly team of volunteers, should contact Sue Roberts or Jude Todd at Community First New Forest on 01425 478391 or nightstop@cfnf.org.uk

East Dorset refuse and recycling collections hit by adverse weather

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

East Dorset residents are being asked for their understanding as the current adverse weather conditions causes the postponement of some of today's refuse and recycling collections in East Dorset.

The only collections taking place today (Friday 8 January) are those in Wimborne town centre, as the roads there are safe and most footways are clear.

However, the snow and ice on estate roads and footways in other areas of the district have created very dangerous conditions.

Collections that were scheduled for today are now planned to take place on Monday 11 January. However, this will only occur if the road and footway conditions have improved over the weekend.

Only today's collections have been re-scheduled. This has been done to avoid a build-up of refuse by residents who did not receive a collection last Friday due to the bank holiday.

Cancelled collections from earlier this week will take place on their next scheduled day.

Unfortunately, the rescheduling of today's collections will mean that Christmas tree collections planned for Monday 11th in the Ferndown, Colehill, Wimborne and Corfe Mullen areas will now be delayed to Monday 18th.

During this time, residents may choose to take excess recycling to one of our recycling centres and take their refuse to the Brook Road or Somerley household recycling centre(HRC). Residents with permits in Corfe Mullen can take their refuse to the Nuffield HRC and residents with permits in the Ferndown/West Parley/West Moors/3LX areas to the Milhams HRC.

Lindsay Cass, Head of Technical Services at East Dorset District Council, said: "Our crews work hard to ensure everyone receives an excellent service in all conditions. However, the recent treacherous weather conditions have caused severe operating difficulties. The dangerous condition of many side roads mean some collection routes are unsafe for our vehicles and the footways are unsafe for our collection crews carrying bags and boxes.

"Residents are advised that side waste generated as a result of this unavoidable period of non-collection will be accepted at the next collection. The Council would like to thank residents for their patience and understanding during this time."

Dorset’s shoebox generosity

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Thanks to the kindness of people throughout Dorset, Operation Christmas Child sent over 23,800 shoeboxes full of presents to children facing difficult lives in several countries.

The shoeboxes full of presents were donated by members of the public, schools, companies, churches and organisations from communities across the county, including Blandford Forum, Bournemouth, Bridport, Broadstone, Christchurch, Dorchester, Ferndown, Lyme Regis, Poole, Portland, Sherborne, Swanage, Wareham, Weymouth and Wimborne. The shoeboxes were checked in the Operation Christmas Child processing centre at Christchurch and sent to children in Belarus, Bosnia and Liberia.

“On behalf of Operation Christmas Child and all our volunteers, I just want to send a huge ‘thank you’ to every single person who donated a shoebox this year,” says Peter & Eileen Ivermee. “This has been a hard year for many people in Dorset, and we are just knocked out by the fact so many of them have put together a shoebox. It has such a positive effect on the child that receives it and we want everyone here to know that their gifts make a real difference.”

The number of Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes that left the UK totalled over 1.1 million.

Extended CAB service

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

East Dorset Citizens Advice Bureau in Wimborne and Ferndown has had some good news about extra government funding for additional services. Read the mid-January issue of Viewpoint Magazine to find out more.

The bureau’s normal opening hours can be checked by ringing 01202 884738 (Wimborne) or 01202 893838 (Ferndown). The additional services are at Hanham Road, Wimborne on Wednesdays: 9.30-11.30am and Princes Court, Ferndown on Fridays: 9am–12noon.

The CAB also operates on Tuesday mornings from Verwood Library by appointment through the library, and at Heatherlands Centre, Ferndown as a drop-in service from 9am -12noon.

Snowy start for Shetland calves

Wed, 06 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Two Shetland calves have been born at Dorset Wildlife Trust’s Corfe Mullen Meadow nature reserve, where the rare breed cattle are helping with conservation management. They are the first to be born to the team of four cows, which have been cropping the grass to allow the meadow’s wild flowers to flourish for next season. Shetlands, which are full size unlike Shetland ponies, are a hardy breed that thrives on poor pasture, making them ideal for conservation grazing. They are currently on the Rare Breeds Survival Trust’s ‘at risk’ list as numbers have reduced due to intensive farming.

Nigel Brooks, East Dorset Area Warden at Dorset Wildlife Trust, said, “The Shetlands have proved to be excellent workers. They just get on with the job and have already worked through the long grass at Sutton Holms near Verwood before getting started at Corfe Mullen. They will also browse willow, sallow and birch, which is perfect for working on our reserves.”

Both the mothers and calves are doing well despite the cold and snowy weather, living up to their hardy reputation. One more cow is expected to give birth shortly. The cattle can be seen on the new field at Corfe Mullen Meadow but people are asked not to go near them.

Nigel Brooks added, “We hope people enjoy seeing the cattle at Corfe Mullen, but please do not approach them now that there are young with them, especially if you have a dog, and please do not try to feed them. They are well supplied with both food and drink, but if you have any concerns, please ring us on 07970 552679.”

Question time for MP at QE

Wed, 06 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

On Friday 8 January at 11am, Robert Walter MP (North Dorset) will drop in to Queen Elizabeth’s School in Wimborne to take questions from 6th Form students about his role as an MP as part of his ongoing ‘ABC’ for schools initiative.

Bob’s ‘ABC’ initiative, which stands for A Brief Introduction to Citizenship, was launched in 2009 with visits to schools in Stalbridge, Sturminster Newton and Gillingham.

At the invitation of Deputy Head of 6th Form Steve Tamplin, Bob’s next visit in this ongoing program is to Queen Elizabeth’s School in Wimborne, where he’ll again be taking questions from 6th Form students hoping to learn more about citizenship, politics and democracy.

Bob’s visit will start at 11am when he will meet with QE’s Head Teacher Andy Puttock. Then, at 11.30am, Bob will take questions from 6th Form students on any issue of their choice relating to Bob’s role in Parliament.

Areas of interest are likely to include foxhunting, university student finance, the economic recession, televised leadership contests and the appearance of Nick Griffin on the BBC’s Question Time – all of which Bob hopes will lead to a lively debate.
Before his visit Bob said, “I am very much looking forward to some tough questions at Friday’s Q&A session. These sessions to date have been both lively and challenging, and I know that 6th Form students are always very clued up about issues that are important to them and their studies.

“For those young adults able to vote at the next General Election and those who must wait until the District Council elections in 2011, these talks are a chance to hopefully inspire and demonstrate how important it is for our young people to use their vote.

“As the future of politics they have a vital role to play and it is up to local and national politicians to do all that they can – by supporting the National Youth Parliament and other local democracy initiatives such as the ‘ABC’ – to engage students early on.”

Ever-growing Haskins exploring to expand

Wed, 06 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Julian Winfield, the Chief Executive of the £30 million turnover Haskins Garden Centres Ltd says that the acquisition of either an established garden centre or a brown field site with the potential of planning consent for a new build project, will be a priority for the Dorset based group. The announcement follows a successful year that saw turnover rise by 6% compared the previous calendar year.

The company’s last purchase was in 2003 when the Snowhill Garden Centre near Crawley was added to their existing centres near Bournemouth, Southampton and Worthing.

“We are viewing property within a 3 hour drive from our head office that are at least 10 acres and well located, and which fit with demographic research supplied by CACI,” said Julian Winfield.

Last year the company invested £2.5 million to extend their restaurant at their Ferndown centre which was one of the UK’s first new build garden centres when constructed in 1994.

Drug arrests in Shaftesbury

Tue, 05 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

On 9 December 2009, a warrant was conducted at an address. A quantity of heroin was recovered and a small cannabis factory was located in the loft. A 44-year-old woman and a 34-year-old man, both from Shaftesbury, were arrested for the drugs offences.

On 31 December 2009, another warrant was executed, and a quantity of drugs was seized from the address. A 21-year-old man and a 24-year-old woman, also from Shaftesbury, were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply.

Officers acted upon information gathered from members of the public by Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) from the local Safer Neighbourhood Teams.
Inspector Shawn Whitley, North Dorset Section Commander, said: “These warrants demonstrate the positive action that officers will take when provided with sufficient intelligence from our communities.

“I would like to highlight the excellent work of our PCSOs in gathering this intelligence which was a significant factor in the success of this operation.

“It is work like this that ensures North Dorset continues to remain one of the safest places to live, work and visit in the country.”

Netball team roars about new kit

Mon, 04 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0000

Ferndown Junior Netball Club has a new kit, which has been bought with a donation of £700 from Wimborne and Ferndown Lions. Fixtures for this year include an U12 team in the Bournemouth league and an U16 team in the Bournemouth adult league. In recognition of the donation, the older team has been given a new name: Ferndown Lions.

The netball club meets at Ferndown Leisure Centre every Monday from 4pm-5.30pm.