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Stay safe on bonfire night

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

With bonfire night fast approaching, Dorset Police, Dorset Fire and Rescue Service, and Dorset’s Trading Standards Service are together issuing advice to the public to ensure that celebrations across Dorset are safe and enjoyable.

Bonfire night can be a busy time of year for the emergency services and local authorities. To ensure the county remains safe during this time, Safer Neighbourhood Teams will be carrying out extra patrols throughout the bonfire night period.

A Dorset police spokesperson said: “bonfire night is a great opportunity for local communities to get together and have fun, but we want to make sure that the public are kept safe and feel safe.

“It is important to remember that some members of our community, such as older residents and young children, can be scared by fireworks and find them distressing.

“Parents must also make sure that they keep their children safe during bonfire night celebrations, as bonfire and firework displays can present dangers to children.

“Members of the public are also reminded that it is an offence for anyone under the age of 18 to have adult fireworks in their possession in a public place. Retailers will be liable to prosecution if they are found selling fireworks to anyone under the age of 18.”

“If you see anything suspicious or anyone attempting to light unauthorised fires, please call 999 and report it immediately."

The firework code:
• Only buy fireworks marked BS 7114
• Don’t drink alcohol if setting off fireworks
• Keep fireworks in a closed box
• Follow the instructions on each firework
• Light at arm's length, using a taper
• Stand well back
• Never go near a firework that has been lit. Even if it hasn’t gone off, it could still explode
• Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them
• Always supervise children around fireworks
• Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves
• Never give sparklers to a child under five
• Keep pets indoors

Bonfire advice:
• Site well away from houses, garages, sheds, fences, overhead cables, trees and shrubs and always away from fireworks
• Before lighting the fire, check that no pets or children are hiding inside it
• Build the stack so that it is stable and will not collapse outwards or to one side
• Never use flammable liquids – paraffin or petrol – to light the fire
• Don’t burn foam-filled furniture, aerosols and tins of paint or bottles
• Keep everyone away from the fire – especially children, who must be supervised at all times

In addition, Dorset police is issuing the following advice about firework and bonfire displays:
• Fireworks must not be let off after 11pm (this is extended up to midnight on 5 November itself)
• Young people under the age of 18 cannot buy (or be in possession of) adult fireworks
• Always keep a bucket of water close by

If members of the public have any concerns, they can contact Dorset police on 01202/01305 222222

Golf day opens doors for Bournemouth war memorial homes

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Funds raised from the Castlepoint Charity Golf Day held in September at the Canford Magna Golf Club have funded the new automated main entry doors to the Bournemouth War Memorial Homes. The 16 teams at the tournament raised over £2,500 for the trust that since 1948 has offered 50 flats, houses and bungalows to disabled ex-service personnel.

The memorial home’s Estates Manager Peter Goodson said that the new doors, fitted at a discounted rate by Verwood based Custom Security Services, have made entry much easier for their disabled residents who can now use a key fob to gain entry.

“We are grateful to all the teams who raised the funds at the golf day,” said Peter Goodson. “Automated doors have been on our wish list for many years. We thank Castlepoint for this very practical contribution to the day to day lives of our veterans.”

Peter Matthews, General Manager at Castlepoint said that the golf teams will be delighted to know that the funds from the tournament would be so used and appreciated. “Every golf swing on the course went towards the new swinging doors. We take for granted our ability to play golf – even badly! We were delighted to be able to support the charity.”

Anyone wishing to support the Bournemouth War Memorial Homes can visit www.bournemouthwarmemorial.co.uk or call 01202 510050.

Timber!! Dorset’s newest play trail attraction

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

There’s a real treat for children visiting Moors Valley Country Park near Ringwood this half term, with the opening of a brand new play structure on the Park’s popular mile-long Play Trail.

Yet, at first glance you would be forgiven if you didn’t spot the spectacular new wooden play sculpture.

Named ‘Timber!!’ it has been constructed mainly from giant pieces of Douglas fir and oak by Otterbourne-based sculptor Andy Frost, with the addition of larch and spruce formed to make large hollow tree tunnels. It’s this natural finish allows it to blend, almost completely, into its woodland setting.

‘Timber!!’ is the latest attraction on the Moors Valley Play Trail which features nine other unique pieces of wooden play equipment including more examples of Andy’s work.

Commenting on the new play structure, Andrew Norris, the Forestry Commission’s Head Ranger, said, “Play is hugely important to children’s mental and physical health. Their desire to play is as instinctive as their attachment to the natural world, so climbing trees, exploring and making dens are certain winners. At Moors Valley we provide children with a real opportunity for adventure – but in a safe environment. In fact ‘Timber!’ is strong enough for everyone in the family to play on, making it the perfect addition to our Play Trail and an exciting new family experience.”

Moors Valley Country Park is open every day. For more information contact the Rangers on 01425 470721.

Proud of your Pet?

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Three Legged Cross Village Hall will be holding its 7th annual Pet Show on Saturday, 31 October at 10am till midday.

The Pet Show is a popular community event in Dorset. It is a great opportunity to show off your pets.

The Pet Show attracts a variety of pets, from rabbits, chickens and ferrets to dogs and cats, which are judged by friendly judges. It is a fun morning everyone and their pets are welcome.

Three Legged Cross is in Wimborne between West Moors and Verwood.

Where does all your rubbish go?

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Dorset’s recycling centres are some of the highest performing in the country, achieving an average reuse, recycling and composting rate of 78 per cent during April to July 2009. This figure has increased by two per cent from the same period in 2008.

Now, Dorset County Council has published a comprehensive list of where each material is sent at www.dorsetforyou.com/enddestinations for residents to find out what happens to these materials.

Each of the 11 Household Recycling Centres across Dorset accepts a wide range of materials from garden waste to fluorescent tubes. The materials collected are taken to various locations where they are reused, treated, and reprocessed. This allows them to be returned as valuable commodities, reducing reliance on raw materials and helping the environment by saving carbon dioxide.

County council cabinet member for the environment Hilary Cox said: “Reusing or repairing products and recycling stops waste going to landfill sites. Dorset has one of the highest recycling rates in the country, however there is still more that can be done to reduce the amount of waste produced across the county.

“To help us reduce what we have to deal with, we must encourage residents to separate their materials before visiting any household recycling centre. People are often surprised by the amount of materials that we recycle. Providing information on what happens to these materials highlights just how much we can recover from waste and makes residents think more about the items they throw away.”

For more information about recycling in Dorset go to www.dorsetforyou.com/recycling

Postal services resuming tomorrow

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

On Friday 30 October at 9.30am, Robert Walter MP will be joining the Mayor of Wimborne, Cllr John Burden, and local civic leaders in celebrating the opening of Wimborne’s long-awaited temporary post office Portakabin at the King Street Car Park.

Wimborne Minster has been without essential post counter services since the 4 July, when a fire seriously damaged Martin’s and two other shops. Nearly seventeen weeks on, Bob Walter MP and fellow campaigners will be there on Friday to welcome the restoration of essential services to the town.

The temporary branch will open from Thursday 29 October, and its hours will reflect those offered by the High Street site, 9am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 12.30pm on Saturday. Although retail services offered by Martin McColl’s cannot resume until the original location is fully restored, the full range of post office services will be available.

Whilst delighted at this development, Bob believes that the delay in installing a temporary service has been unacceptable in a town where local businesses and ordinary people – particularly the elderly and vulnerable – are so dependent on the services this key post office branch provides.

Before the event Bob said, “I really am pleased to see the installation and opening of the temporary post office in Wimborne Minster, though it is difficult to ignore the fact that it took nearly seventeen weeks to achieve. Having directly intervened with Post Office Ltd, Royal Mail and BT to try and move things along, I dread to think where we’d be now without the combined efforts of so many people to move this along.

“Friday’s opening ceremony will be a chance, not only to welcome the restoration of post office services, but to celebrate this collaboration. Let’s also hope that Wimborne’s experience acts as a warning to other communities who suffer a sudden loss of postal services that they’ll need to work very hard for their swift and safe return”.

Jeepers it’s the poppy launch

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

A column of historic military vehicles arrived in the Square with Squadron Leader (retired) Cliff Hardman riding as the passenger with his tray of poppies in a Jeep belonging to Mr Y.W.Kwan.

The vehicles arrived at precisely 11 o'clock just as the Dorset Youth Marching Band marched out of East Borough to give a rousing musical accompaniment for the Mayor, Cllr J Burden to buy the first poppy.

Santa, Gingerbread and Woofability

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

The popular house made of giant sweets (not real sadly!) will be open for three weekends on Friday, Saturday and Sunday in December in the run up to Christmas. Entry is free, but it is hoped that visitors to see Santa in his yummy abode will donate to the Furlong’s chosen charity.

The Centre is supporting Woofability, a charity dedicated to buying and training dogs for the disabled.

The organiser, Jenny Clarke from Ferndown is herself in a wheelchair, and has a golden retriever called Honey. She trained her first dog twenty six years ago when she first became disabled.

Since April, Jenny has been energetically setting up and running this charity from her home and hopes to raise £45,000 in one year. Already several dogs have been sponsored.

Said Jenny. "Next year we will have ten dogs in training. It takes two years and costs about £5,000 to train each one. The response has been fantastic, we have already raised about £20,000, so we should be on target for that £45,000. Next year we want to make it £100,000.”

Jenny and her team of helpers and puppies will be in the Furlong on 14 November to explain what she is doing and inviting sponsorship and donations.

Criminals’ cash boosts Dorset’s projects

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

In all, 269 projects have been chosen nationally.

The funding has been made available through the Government’s recently launched Community Cashback scheme, where ‘Cashback’ from criminals’ seized assets, such as confiscated cash or property, has been earmarked to fund worthwhile community projects.

In Dorset, 32 projects were nominated and 1085 responses were received from members of the public on which projects they would like to see funded.

Some of the projects are:

Crate Stacking Challenge – Butchers Coppice Bournemouth. Crate stacking is a new, fun activity that helps develop group and self co-ordination. With two safe working areas, teams or pairs construct the highest tower of crates possible. It’s a race to see who can climb the highest, quickest and balance without falling off. The person climbing the crates is safely secured both overhead and by a second person belaying. This will benefit youngsters in the area who on an evening especially Friday and Saturday would normally not have anywhere to go.

Enigma Youth Club - Enigma is run for young people with Aspergers Syndrome/Autistic spectrum disorder living in Dorset. People with this condition may have difficulties with social communication and interaction. They may not have opportunities to socialise outside of school, as attending ‘ordinary’ clubs can be very stressful. Young people from year 7 and above are welcome.

Crime Prevention Demonstration Kits – This scheme is to encourage residents in Dorset to take steps to reduce the opportunities for crime. The scheme will provide a demonstration kit of crime prevention aids, which can be obtained from twenty police stations across Dorset. This will be used by local Neighbourhood/Home Watch Group Co-ordinators or by Police Safer Neighbourhood Teams to encourage residents to purchase products appropriate to their situations. Each kit will contain window alarm, purse chain, minder purse alarm, portable motion detector alarm, minder padlock alarm (to guard against oil/diesel theft), wireless digital door phone (to identify callers and help prevent distraction burglary), shed alarm and wireless alarm system.

Core Training for New Volunteers – Victim Support relies of volunteers and will spend their award in recruiting and training members of the local community to become Community Service volunteers for Victim Support (Dorset). Research has proven that victims who accept support recover quicker and are more able to return to their normal lives; by using members of the community it increases the feeling of empowerment and helps to generate a stronger community spirit.

The £4 million National Community Cashback fund was announced back in May and the Local Criminal Justice Board in Dorset was able to submit project proposals for funding up to their area maximum of £95,000. Successful bids needed to show how the local community was involved in suggesting the project, demonstrate good value for money and be related in some way to tackling antisocial or criminal behaviour locally.

Nicholas Jennings Dorset Criminal Justice Board Confidence and Communications Officer said: “The public response to Community Cashback in Dorset has been exceptional and we would like to thank everyone who took the time to either nominate projects or ‘have their say’ on which project they feel would benefit from the funding in our area.

“It is fantastic that we have been able to respond to the communities’ needs and that the ill-gotten gains of criminals will now be channelled into projects that will make a real positive difference to the local community and the lives of individuals.

“We hope that Community Cashback has given people the opportunity to have a stronger voice in the Criminal Justice System in Dorset.”

Home Secretary Alan Johnson added: “It is only right that criminals are made to payback for their crimes. The Community Cashback fund ensures some of their ill-gotten gains are ploughed back into local communities.

“Seizing assets deprives criminals of money, reduces the incentive for crime and promotes fairness and confidence in the criminal justice system. I’m glad so many people have got involved either by putting forward plans to improve their neighbourhoods or voting for their favourite project.”

Classic American cars honour Dorset teaching assistant

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Seven classic American cars followed the hearse to Poole Crematorium in recognition of National Canadian American Car Club member, Anne Hunt.

The mother of three and grandmother passed away in hospital on September 29 after a long battle with cancer. A collection is being made in her memory for St Mary’s C of E First School, where Anne worked with children with special needs.

Her husband Stephen said: “Anne devoted seventeen years to the school, first as a dinner lady, then as a helper and later as a teaching assistant – she had a lovely way with the children and loved her job.

“She was fantastic – she loved her family and enjoyed spending time with her three grandchildren. She was a proud member of the local classic American car club and did a lot of admin promoting forthcoming shows.

“We spent a great many weekends away with the club - she fell in love with the cars and with 1950s music and through the club we made some great friends. Having such wonderful cars driven by dear friends for her funeral procession is exactly what she would have wanted.”

The couple owned a 1958 champagne gold Buick, which followed the hearse. Other cars in the procession included a 1957 Cadillac, a 1960 Chrysler Saratoga, a 1958 Dodge, a 1955 Buick, a Chrysler 300F and a Cadillac Eldorado Seville.

Simon Dixon, Chair of Governors at St Mary’s C of E First School, said: “The staff and children here will greatly miss our dear friend Anne. She will be fondly remembered for her work with children who have special educational needs.

“Anne valued and understood the needs of each child and supported and helped to build their confidence and self-esteem – enabling them to successfully participate in all areas of school life.”

Anne leaves Stephen, three children: Daniel, Charlene and Donna and three grandchildren.

Donations in her memory can be made to St Mary’s C of E School, care of Lesley Shand Funeral Directors: 184 Wareham Road, Corfe Mullen, BH21 3LL.

Join Paul Martin flogging it! for dogs

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Star of ‘Flog it!’, animal lover Paul Martin will be bringing the gavel down to raise money at an auction in aid of Friends of the Strays of Greece at the Meridien Milano Showrooms (B11 8QE) in Bournemouth on Saturday 14 November.

It promises to be an entertaining evening.

Paul is patron of the Ashley Heath run charity, which funds emergency veterinary treatment, feeding programs and shelters for stray and abandoned animals in Greece and its islands. He is a keen supporter of animal welfare and regularly attends the charity’s events. This time he is on home ground – auctioning many of the 100 plus lots at a glamorous venue which will be combined with a ‘silent’ auction over a glass of wine. Tickets are £5 each including a glass of wine and a catalogue.

What’s on offer?

Want to test drive a Ferrari? Escape for a week to a luxury log cabin on the Isle of Lewis? Or a weekend away in Noss Mayo? Perhaps you’d like a flying lesson? Or a portrait of your pet either in oils by professional artist Kathy Lewis or a photographic portrait; a bungee jump or a signed ‘nodding dog’ from Paul O’Grady. Also on offer: a load of logs, garden maintenance, 2 tickets for Bournemouth ‘Eye’ and a Christmas hamper. For the more practical present hunter, a coffee maker, a garden planter for the spring or a bottle of Glenmorangie Single malt or a weekend’s boarding for your cat or dog. In fact, something for everyone and every pocket!

Lyn Purden, who founded Strays of Greece, comments: “Instead of rushing around the shops and hunting for ideas – we have the ideas in front of you! You needn’t feel guilty about spending because you will be helping to save the destitute and injured dogs and cats, that are seen everywhere in Greece, from a life of misery. We have received a lot of phone calls this year from tourists in Greece distressed at the number of stray animals injured or in poor condition. We try to put them in touch with the nearest shelter we know of.

“Ours is a charity without staff – everyone is a volunteer. So money raised goes to funding animal veterinary care, food and medicine and supporting several animal shelters in different parts of Greece. On a recent visit we took over a van full of food (kindly donated at our dog walk) and brought back 9 rescued dogs to good homes. Volunteer vets, whose flights we fund, have just returned from neutering and spaying 150 dogs and cats and vaccinating them. It is all part of our ongoing work.

“We are grateful to everyone who has supported us in this difficult financial year – and we know from our previous auction, at which Paul kindly officiated, that we’re in for a wonderful evening. I’m so grateful to him for his time, and to Meridien Milano for the use of their showroom."

If you would like tickets, which need to be booked in advance because of demand, they are obtainable by contacting Lyn Purden on – 01425 478757 or Celia Marker on 01425 472672. Tickets are £5 and include a glass of wine and a catalogue. Viewing starts at 7pm – Auction at 8.30 pm.

Dorset drivers caught in the Vortex

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Throughout October teams of traffic officers are undertaking patrols in marked and unmarked cars and on motorcycles. The Dorset operation forms part of a regional operation to promote road safety and to tackle motorists who flout road traffic laws.

Here’s the tally of tickets issued to drivers in just two days: 19 October and 20 October:

20 for using a mobile phone while driving.

61 for not wearing a seat belt

5 for driving without insurance,

16 for driving without a valid MOT

5 for speeding

Inspector John Mallace, of the Dorset Police Traffic Unit, said: “As part of our ongoing commitment to making the roads safer, we are once again targeting those motorists who drive carelessly and are a danger on our roads.

“This includes, but is not limited to, targeting drivers who use a mobile phone while driving, drive at inappropriate speeds, are not in proper control of their vehicle or other dangerous and intimidating behaviour like driving too closely to the vehicle in front – all types of driving which can have devastating consequences.

“We’ll also be targeting drivers not wearing a seat belt in a bid to highlight the importance of wearing a seat belt on every trip.

“Nearly all road traffic collisions are caused by driver error and we want to get the message home to motorists that when they are behind the wheel, 100 per cent concentration must be given to their driving.”

Bournemouth Boys meet Dragon Deborah

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Deborah Meaden, star of television’s Dragons’ Den, has enlisted a group of sixth form students from Bournemouth School for Boys as ambassadors for the ChildLine online service which was launched nationally on Monday (October 19).

Deborah visited the school to inspire the students to promote ChildLine’s new online features among their peer groups within the school.

“In life there are two types of people, those who do and help to support others, and those who do not. That is in business, in support and in life generally,” she told the group.

“I am here to talk to you today because I am a doer. I want to inspire you to join those of us who support the work of ChildLine and the NSPCC in helping those who look up to you as peers.

“It is really important that we can encourage children and young people to talk about their feelings and, as a group of young men that younger students will look up to, I am sure you can help with that.”

Young people can continue to call ChildLine on 0800 1111, but they can now receive information and support via the website www.childline.org.uk. Children can now make contact with ChildLine through email, online message boards or one-to-one chats with counsellors.

By developing the new tools and channels of communication online, ChildLine is encouraging even more young people to talk about their feelings. Online creative tools allow young people to explore their feelings, and there are also games, videos and a mood tracker to help young people evaluate how they are feeling over a period of time.

The school plans to follow up Deborah’s visit with a series of assemblies in coming days when those who attended will pass on the important messages.

Deputy head Will Pyke said: “We wholeheartedly support the work of ChildLine and we are thrilled that Deborah Meaden came to speak to the boys about the new developments.

“As she said, the challenge is now for the boys to spread the word amongst others and make sure all our pupils are aware that ChildLine is there for them whenever they feel worried or concerned and that no problem is too small.”

Cheryl Marshall, children’s services manager at the Exeter ChildLine base, talked the boys through the website’s new features, and said: “While many children are happy most of the time, it is important that they have a strong network of family and friends to offer them support when they do have problems.“Some children aren’t lucky enough to have this support, or find it difficult to talk about their feelings, so can end up suffering in silence.“ChildLine provides trusted and confidential support for those children who feel isolated, and now thanks to government funding and public support, we have been able to develop the service to do it in the way that suits them best."

Memorial unveiled for Ryan

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Last weekend, Robert Walter MP (North Dorset) joined local justice campaigner, Cathy Franklin, in unveiling a memorial bench at the Woodhouse Gardens in Blandford in memory of her murdered son Ryan.

They were joined by Cathy’s young son Ben and the Mayor of Blandford, Cllr Lynn Lindsay, in cutting the ribbon on the memorial bench, which will offer a permanent reminder of Ryan’s life and tragic loss in the town where he was born.

Bob has campaigned with Cathy since Ryan’s death in 2002 for a change in coroner law that would have prevented Cathy’s agony at being unable to bury her baby son Ryan for 18 months whilst waiting for his killer – Ryan’s father Lee Khair– to go on trial.

They have together petitioned parliament and repeatedly called on Government to implement changes that would see any waiting time for victims’ families reduced to a maximum of 30 days, in all but the most exceptional circumstances. To their delight the Coroners and Justice Bill, which includes this amendment, finally made it into this year’s legislative programme. The Report stage - a three-day debate on the Bill to be held in the House of Lords - gives the opportunity for a further line by line examination of the Bill and is scheduled for 21, 26 and 28 October.

As a spokeswoman for national charity Mothers Against Murders and Aggression (MAMAA), Cathy Franklin is also organising a funding raising ball at the Carrington Hotel in Bournemouth on Saturday 8 May 2010. All money raised will go to MAMAA and an auction will take place hosted by TV presenter Jeremy Kyle. Those keen to support Cathy should go to www.ukcharityballs.co.uk and click on MAMAA Spring Ball.

Local photographer gets recognition

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Grant Read, 47, a formerly homeless man from Bournemouth, has been voted as a runner up by national homelessness charity, Crisis, at this year’s Changing Lives Champion’s Award.

Supported by Barclays, the scheme helps vulnerable homeless people back into education, training and employment. The awards were held in Canary Wharf, London, on 19 October 2009.

Grant was voted as a runner up in the Business category, in recognition of his progress in overcoming homelessness and drug addiction to set up his own photography business.

He became addicted to cocaine, amphetamine and pills in the early 1990’s. He spent over 15 years working as a project manager but his drug addiction eventually cost him his job. He was diagnosed with a nervous breakdown and depression in 2000 and became homeless in 2004.

He applied for a Crisis Changing Lives Award to buy a camera and is now living in private rented accommodation working as a freelance photographer. He said: “I’ve always loved photography. I thought to myself, ‘I’ve got an opportunity to do something completely different’. The camera is great. It’s my workhorse – it’s what I do everything with.”

His photography business in Bournemouth continues to expand and Grant now supports himself and is successfully managing the transition away from the benefits system. Working more than 60 hours per week, Grant shoots weddings, exhibitions, bands and undertakes assignments for local papers. He has had a number of photographs published in local and national publications and has built good working relationships with customers and suppliers.

The awards were presented by Caroline Spelman MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government.

Barclays has been supporting the Crisis Changing Lives Awards since 2002. In this time the scheme has provided nearly 1,700 financial awards to people who are homeless or settling into new homes and looking for support to achieve their educational and vocational goals.

Self-service books

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Residents in Verwood are the latest Dorset Library Service users to benefit from new self-service facilities being rolled out across the county.

The user-friendly technology provides customers with quick, easy and independent access to library stock, including books and DVDs.

Verwood follows in the footsteps of libraries including Weymouth, Dorchester, and Wareham where customers are now using self-service.

Dorset County Councillor for Verwood and Three Legged Cross, Toni Coombs, said: “I’m sure that people in Verwood and the surrounding area will enjoy using the new self service points."

The change is part of a modernisation programme being carried out by Dorset County Council across its libraries.

Further self-service systems will soon be introduced elsewhere including Blandford, Ferndown and Sturminster Newton.

Congratulations Jensen!

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

New Formula One world champion driver Jensen Button has been congratulated by the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, of which he is patron.

Jensen has been one of the life-saving charity’s patrons since it was launched nearly 10 years ago.

Charlotte Routley, charity manager for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, sent Jensen a congratulatory message: “On behalf of the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, I would like to send you warmest congratulations from all our staff and volunteers on your achievement in becoming Formula One World Champion.

“You have been a patron of our charity since we launched nearly ten years ago, and throughout this time we have followed the development of your career at the highest level of motor racing.”

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance has attended more than 700 emergencies across Somerset and Dorset this year, taking its mission total to nearly 7,000 since it was launched in 2000.

Charlotte Routley said: “All too often we have to deal with the tragic consequences of road traffic accidents where inappropriate speed has been a contributory factor.

“So, to have a Formula One driver like Jensen Button as a patron of our charity is something which reminds us all of the importance of safe driving and the need to understand the skills required to get behind the wheel.

“Jensen has over the years helped to keep our public profile high, which is very important for a charity which has to raise over £3,500 a day to keep our air ambulance flying.

“We do not receive any Government funding at all, so we have to rely entirely on the fund-raising efforts of our staff and our many voluntary supporters throughout Somerset and Dorset.”

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

Verwood’s first poppy

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

As Poppy Appeals were launched throughout the county, the Verwood Mayor, Councillor Michael Dolan, was photographed buying the first poppy in the town from Normandy Veteran Stan Prince.

Nick King backs calls for review of Dorset Speed Cameras

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Nick King, Conservative Candidate for Mid Dorset and North Poole and member of Dorset Police Authority has added his voice to calls for a review of the use of speed cameras across the county.

Backing Conservative plans announced this week for a blueprint to improve safety and cut congestion on Dorset’s Roads.

The new blueprint for a Conservative government includes:

· Improving safety by switching from installing new fixed speed cameras to alternative safety measures, such as Vehicle Activated Signs and better education.

· Scrapping Labour’s unaccountable speed camera quangos and publishing full details of the revenue raised from each existing individual camera.

· Setting clearer rules on the timing of traffic lights, to address concerns about traffic lights settings being covertly changed by highways authorities to keep them constantly on red.

· Cracking down on rogue wheel clampers, which is a particular problem on private land.

· Freeing councils to pilot innovative schemes, like ‘turn left on red’ for cyclists.

· Cutting the congestion caused by road works and motorway closures following accidents.

Nick said: “Just getting around has become a daily grind for many Dorset people. Law-abiding drivers have to avoid endless road works, cash-extorting rogue clampers and speed cameras installed to raise money rather than improve safety.

“Conservatives will take the practical, common sense measures that are needed to tackle the congestion that is costing Dorset’s economy millions. We need more openness and accountability on decisions that affect people’s lives. Greater use should be made of technology like Vehicle Activated Signs to cut speeding. It’s time for change to get our area moving, and I’m backing calls to review the current policy.

EXPENSES ISSUE: Bob Walter MP repays £458

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

“I have now received a letter from Sir Thomas Legg concerning my Parliamentary expenses over the past five years. Sir Thomas has asked me to repay two items amounting in total to £458, which I have agreed to do. He has also raised a third item, which requires clarification, and I will be discussing this with him. If any repayment is required in respect of this item I will make a full statement when Sir Thomas’s report is finalised

“Sir Thomas Legg has retrospectively imposed a limit on claims for gardening expenses of £1000 per year over the 5 years from 2004 to 2009. Applying that limit for the five years in question he has requested I repay £358. He has also revisited a claim for a small item of furniture and suggested that the Department of Finance and Administration overpaid me in the sum of £100. I will repay both amounts.

“I understand the public’s anger over this whole affair, which has severely damaged the reputation of Parliament both in this country and abroad. At no time have I sought to do anything irregular and in the spirit of drawing a line under this issue have agreed to repay these sums immediately.

“The Leader of the Liberal Democrats, Nick Clegg, has also repaid £910 in respect of gardening expenses and has appealed that…….

“I think that the public anger about MPs expenses is so great and so understandably great that whatever your views on how Sir Thomas Legg has interpreted the rules, the key thing now is to respond to any request he makes, do so quickly, do so cooperatively, pay money back, so that we can clear up the system once and for all………I think it’s important now to move on, so we can look the voters in the eye, at the general election and say, ‘we’ve paid all the money back that we’ve been asked to pay back’ – rightly or wrongly – ‘we now have a system which is beyond reproach, put us back into parliament, so that we can do the job which we’re supposed to do, which is represent you rather than be embroiled, yet again, in arguments about our expenses.”

I agree with his view entirely and in the interest of democracy and the future of Parliament I ask local political activists of all parties, but particularly the Liberal Democrats in Dorset, to take note of his words and to get on with debating the real political issues and addressing the severe problems that face our country today.

I want now to get on with the job I was elected to do representing the people of North Dorset.

Heather Barnett murder - Italian link

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Detectives investigating the brutal murder of a Bournemouth mother-of-two found mutilated in her bathroom - with strands of cut hair placed in her right hand by the killer - have travelled to Italy as part of ‘several lines of specific, detailed and continuing enquiry.’

Police are also renewing appeals to the public for help in identifying a man pictured on CCTV near the murder scene on the day of the murder; help in tracing the owner of a Nike 'Terra Part Stormy' training shoe identified from a blood print of its sole at the murder scene - and for women who have had their hair cut in unusual or suspicious circumstances to come forward.

Forty-eight year old Heather Barnett was found dead at her Capstone Road home in the Charminster area of Bournemouth by her two children, Caitlin then aged 11 and Terry then aged 14, just after 4pm on Tuesday, 12 November 2002.

The seamstress - who grew up in the North Dorset town of Sturminster Newton - had been hit over the head with a hammer-like object and stabbed several times. The killer had also cut her breasts off and left them beside Heather's body.

Since 2002, detectives with Dorset Police's Major Crime Investigation Team have been working to track down the brutal killer of the seamstress known to her friends as 'Bunny'.

Police have also been utilising both recent and continuing advances in genetic DNA analysis to try and identify Heather's killer.

Since the start of this week, a team of four detectives from Dorset Police's Major Crime Investigation Team have been in Italy interviewing and taking DNA samples from the hair of 15 women in the Rome, Potenza, Turin, Rimini and Milan areas who have reported having their hair cut in unusual or suspicious circumstances. Detectives are due to return to Dorset by the weekend.

A forensic genetic profile of those DNA samples will be produced and compared to the forensic profile of the cut hair strands - not from Heather's hair - found in her right hand at the murder scene after being left by the killer.

The fifteen women across Italy had reported the unusual or suspicious hair cutting occurrences after seeing an item about the Heather Barnett murder investigation on the Italian TV version of BBC Crimewatch - RAI's 'Che la Vista' - two years ago.

Detectives are also renewing their appeal for public help in identifying a man pictured on CCTV in Charminster Road, Bournemouth - close to the junction with Capstone Road on the day of Heather's murder - on Tuesday, 12 November 2002.

Police are also appealing for public help in tracing a distinctive Nike 'Terra Part Stormy' training shoe which police have identified from a blood print of its sole found at the murder scene.

Superintendent Mark Cooper, of Dorset Police, said: "The Heather Barnett murder investigation is never closed and we remain as resolute and committed to catching her brutal killer as we were in the days and weeks after Heather's tragic death.

"This is an unusual murder case and the professional and focussed investigation continues to be a challenge.

"We are utilising the latest advances in DNA genetic profiling and Dorset Police is committed to achieving justice for Heather, her two children and the rest of the family.

"We are following several lines of specific, detailed and continuing enquiry and detectives travelling out to Italy this week is just one example of that. We have been liaising closely with Interpol and the Italian police.

"I am continuing to appeal for help in identifying the man pictured on the CCTV in Charminster Road, close to the junction with Capstone Road, on the day of the murder; for help in tracing the owner of a Nike 'Terra Part Stormy' training shoe identified from a blood print of its sole at the murder scene - and for women who have had their hair cut in unusual or suspicious circumstances to come forward.

"Someone - perhaps several people - has information that could help this murder enquiry which is just as focussed and determined as it was after Heather's tragic death on that November day back in 2002," explained Superintendent Cooper.

Witnesses and anyone with information should contact 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.

Campaigner slams proposal to close Wareham Magistrates Court

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Nick King, Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for Mid Dorset and North Poole has condemned Government proposals to close Wareham Magistrates Court in Dorset.

Wareham is one of 21 Magistrates Courts proposed for closure by the Government in a written statement from the Ministry of Justice.

Commenting on the proposal, Nick said: “It makes a mockery of British justice that this government is considering closing 21 magistrates courts, despite the serious problems of violent crime and anti-social behaviour we face.”

“It demonstrates all too clearly Labour’s over-reliance on spot fines. A whole range of offenders, who should be properly punished through the courts, are getting away with a slap on the wrist or a glorified parking ticket.”

“It also demonstrates yet again how the Government are obsessed by centralisation. Wareham has already lost its Job Centre, now yet another government service is being removed to the nearest large town. Justice should be close to the people it serves, that means retaining services in Wareham for the people of Purbeck.”

Take a walk in West Moors!

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

A new weekly health walk is about to start in West Moors near Wimborne. This takes the number of regular volunteer-led walks in the area to ten, involving over 120 local residents in regular, weekly exercise.

The free walks are all part of Activate 1000, a campaign designed to encourage more local people to take part in active leisure in East Dorset. Organised by Karl Prince, Healthy Lifestyle Ranger at Moors Valley Country Park, a whole range of activities are available under the scheme including yoga, cycling, Nordic walking and women’s running.

“The new health walk at West Moors is the latest in an increasing number of free or subsidised activities now taking place across the area,” said Karl. “There really is something to suit every age and ability and taking part is a great way to ease into a regular healthy exercise routine and meet new friends.”

The weekly West Moors health walk launches on Thursday 22 October. It then takes place every Thursday from 10am – 11am, (meet 9.50am) and runs from the Elephant and Castle Pub on Station Road.

To get involved or for a copy of the Activate 1000 leaflet, email your full name and address to activate1000@eastdorset.gov.uk or call the Moors Valley Rangers on 01425 470721.

Sell out for Naomi House!

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

The sell-out Beales ‘Girls Night Out’ proved an overwhelming success with 460 guests attending the autumn/winter fashion extravaganza at the Bournemouth store.

In support of the children’s hospice Naomi House, the event raised more than £4,000. Professional models lined the catwalk to showcase an array of trends and looks for autumn and winter, key looks for the Christmas party season as well as glamorous accessories from top fashion brands at Beales.

Give or Take Success

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

East Dorset’s ever popular Give or Take Days arrived at Alderholt Village Hall on Saturday 10 October.

It was the third most successful Give or Take Day so far with almost one tonne of unwanted items being taken away for reuse, preventing them from being sent to Dorset’s landfill sites.

Give or Take Days have been held in many locations around East Dorset since their inception in 2007. Residents bring along reusable items that they no longer need and can take items that other people have donated free of charge. It’s not even compulsory to bring anything. Residents can turn up just to give or to take.

Gemma Coles, Waste Reduction Manager for East Dorset District Council explained: “Give or Take Days encourage the reuse of items that would normally end up in landfill. They are attracting quite a following now as their popularity increases. I am sure the current economic climate has contributed to their growing success. The council is pleased that providing these days is helping increase awareness around what we throw away, and whether these items could be reused by others instead.”

The next two Give or Take Days will take place at Holtwood Village Hall on Saturday, 5 December, 9.30am–12.30pm and at Sixpenny Handley Village Hall on Saturday, 30 January, 2010 from 9:30am–noon. .

The council is always looking for volunteers to help arrange incoming items so, if you are interested in volunteering for either of the forthcoming events, please contact the Waste Reduction Department at East Dorset District Council on (01202) 886201 as soon as possible.

Dorset vineyard produces bumper crop!

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

The Purbeck Vineyard in Dorset is reaping the rewards of a good year as a dry and sunny summer has produced a bumper crop of grapes.

Based near Corfe Castle, an army of volunteers have brought in a wealthy harvest of more than two tonnes of grapes from the vineyard's 3,000 vines, representing several grape varieties including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Seyval Blanc and Phoenix.

The pressed grapes have created more than 2,000 litres of juice which, following fermentation, will produce about 3,000 bottles of English wine including Purbeck Vineyard 'Studland Ruby' and 'Kimmeridge Mist'.

Churchyards come alive

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

The Minster Church of St Cuthburga in the centre of Wimborne and St Michael’s Church, Colehill on the outskirts.

The Minster entered the competition with God’s Acre, the area of land to the east end of the Minster. It gained Very Highly Commended in the New Entry category. The judges said it was “A wildlife oasis in the heart of a busy town, offering peace and relaxation away from the bustle all around.”

St. Michaels, which has been taking part in the competition for a number of years received a Highly Commended Certificate in the Best Managed Category.

The Prizegiving was held at the headquarters of the Dorset Wildlife Trust which organises the competition and certificates were presented by Simon Cripps, Chief Executive of the Trust on Saturday.

Around 35 Churches from across Dorset took part in the competition this year.

Crafty success

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

The Craft Fair held at Allendale Community Centre in Wimborne raised £531 for charity.

URGENT APPEAL

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

A friend of Ray's, Lorraine Croom, is trying to get in touch with his sister Liz, her husband Bill and their daughter Tessa, who are believed to be living in the Wimborne or Corfe Mullen areas. Please call 07790 08 59 84 or 01202 620291. Thank you.

No 1 Bus for Joshua

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

When managers at Wilts & Dorset received a letter from the Faramus family from Bournemouth explaining that their eight-year-old autistic son, Joshua was fascinated with buses and asked if it would be possible to visit the bus operation in Poole, a VIP tour was immediately arranged.

Joshua’s first stop was the operations and control rooms where the team oversee over 700 departures from Poole bus station each day and ensure that buses and drivers are rostered to meet the challenge of providing the region’s largest bus network.

The tour continued to the depot where Joshua, who attends Linwood School in Bournemouth, saw where the 54 single and double decker vehicles are maintained, repaired, and prepared for special services including the open top routes.

Nicki Faramus explained that Joshua has, over the last two years, shown incredible improvements in his speech and communication development. As his condition improved, she and Joshua were able to confidently travel by bus to see the area.

“The bus drivers have been excellent with Joshua who has an incredible memory. He can remember timetables in great detail including times and destinations, even recalls driver’s badge numbers,” said Nicki. “He would love to become a bus driver but we know that in reality he may never even gain a provisional driving licence without major advances in medical science.”

The VIP tour ended with a visit to the eco friendly giant bus wash where the destination display was changed to No 1 Josh’s Bus.

Don’t risk going blind for the sake of an eye test

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Annette Brooke MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole recently met up with the Eye Health Alliance to learn more about the importance of eye health and regular sight tests.

Annette said: “Many people just don’t look after their eyes - I was shocked to learn that 50% of blindness in the UK could have been prevented through regular sight tests and screening programmes. Even if you think your vision is fine it is still important to check your eyes are healthy.”

Annette had the back of her retina photographed with a retinal camera, which can pick up conditions such as cataract, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.

The results of a recent study indicate that partial sight and blindness places a large economic cost on the UK, much of which could have been avoided with an increase in take-up of regular sight tests.

Additionally, these costs are expected to grow substantially, partly as a result of an ageing population and an increase in the number of people living with long term conditions. Therefore, the early detection of conditions through screening and testing, such as eye examinations, will play an increasing role in health services across the nation.

Eye tests are readily available on the high street. Many groups of people are entitled to a free NHS Sight Test such as all children under 16, those aged 60 and over and those on low incomes.

Heather Marshall, Head of Public Affairs for the Eye Health Alliance points out:

“It’s vital that people have their eyes tested at least once every two years. Eye health and regular sight tests are important for everyone – for children to develop socially and academically at school, for working age adults to go about their lives safely, and for older people to live independently and reduce the risk of accidents such as falls.”

Students create vegetable patch with Eco’s help

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

A BIG-HEARTED Christchurch company is helping students at Twynham School turn an overgrown old pond into a vegetable patch.

Eco Sustainable Solutions has donated four tonnes of its Super Soil product to the Sopers Lane school.

It is being used by Year 10 students who are undertaking the gardening project as part of their ASDAN Certificate of Personal Effectiveness (CoPE) qualification.

Maxine Barry, Twynham School’s Speech and Language-based Manager, said: “Eco has been absolutely fantastic and we’re very grateful. Nothing has been too much trouble for the company.

“The garden project teaches our speech and language-based students the benefits of working together as a team as well as being environmentally aware. They are working incredibly hard.”

Justin Dampney, Eco’s Business Development Manager, said: “We’re delighted to be lending a helping hand to such a worthwhile scheme.”

Commercial burglary soars

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Between April and September 2009, 195 crimes relating to commercial burglaries (all non-residential theft eg sheds, garages, industrial premises, storage units and offices) have been reported across East Dorset. This figure is up 55 per cent (70 crimes) from last year.

As a result of the increase, the 11 Safer Neighbourhood Teams in East Dorset, as well as the dedicated patrol staff and special constabulary, are undertaking targeted patrols in the area. They will be particularly focusing on Ferndown and Wimborne, where a majority of the offences have occurred, and to advise the communities of the security measures that are available.

Officers are also encouraging business owners to sign up to the ‘Industrial Watch’ system, which has already been operating successfully on the Ferndown Industrial Estate.

Industrial watch is a community messaging system, which shares information on crime trends between the police, businesses, residents and partners.

East Dorset Section Commander, Inspector Mike Darkin, said: “We are using police intelligence and information given to us by members of the public to target our patrols and known suspects.

“Over the past 12 months, we have made a number of arrests in relation to commercial burglary, many of which have been as a direct result from information gained from members of the public.

“I would like members of the public to continue to work with the police, remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour to us or Crimestoppers anonymously.”

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.

Look what we caught!

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Teams from Bournemouth & West Hampshire Water (BWHW), AquaCare and Bristol Water also netted funds for the international charity WaterAid.

A total of 14 fishermen were involved with Mike Keynes, a former BWHW employee, declared the winner. His total catch of three bream weighed 15lbs.

Second was Mike Hall of BWHW with a 10lb 10oz catch while Bristol Water’s Dave Stiff was third with a 4lb haul.

Catches were below average due to river conditions, particularly the recent weather causing low water flow.

BWHW’s social club fishing section takes part in several matches during the year and is due to compete in another, organised by Wessex Water, at the end of this month.

Tony Cooke, BWHW’s Managing Director, said: “These annual matches involve staff from several organisations engaging in their favourite sport whilst helping to change lives.

“Over the past five years the competitions have raised over £1,000 which is enough to provide around 70 people with clean safe water, sanitation and hygiene education. We are happy to support them to bring what we take for granted to some of the world's poorest people."

WaterAid is an international charity which aims to overcome poverty by enabling the world's poorest people to gain access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene education.

Micro finance gets tsunami victims back on their feet

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, has just returned from a trip to India to see how micro finance has helped local people get back on their feet since the tsunami in 2004. Annette was invited by the charity Five Talents and paid for the trip herself.

Micro finance involves giving very small loans (£25 upwards) to help people set up small businesses. It is regarded as the most important tool for combating poverty and has already helped at least 100 million of the poorest people in the world; people who survive on one dollar a day or less.

Annette travelled to Chennai and visited villages which are involved with micro finance and which where badly affected by the 2004 tsunami.

She saw how micro finance projects are helping people to build small businesses, to create jobs and to support their families in a sustainable and dignified way.

Five Talents supports micro finance projects in developing countries – supporting small loans and business training to the active poor. They have over 20,000 members and over £1m of loan portfolio in circulation (average £80 loan per person).

Five Talents started to work in Chennai post tsunami when the local primary industries of fishing had been wiped out. It has encourage communities to work together irrespective of faith and grown a sense of accountability

Annette said: “This was one of the most informative trips I have ever been on, it was great to see the huge impact that small loans can make to peoples lives. It enables them to set up businesses, make money and fend for themselves.

“It also means that children can stay at school longer and get a proper education, rather than having to help the family keep a roof over its head.”

Rachel Millward, Development Director of Five Talents commented: “It was fantastic to witness first-hand the benefits of micro finance within this community and it was great that Annette could come and learn about it too. Nothing can be more inspiring than meeting people who exist on dollar a day, but have worked their way out of poverty using their own business skills, initiative and hard-work.”

Dust off your wedding dress and have a ball

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

The Wedding Dress Ball in Dorset is a unique chance for brides and grooms to re-live their special day and wear the outfit that they thought they would never get a chance to show off again, all in aid of charity.

In fact, it’s the perfect excuse for everyone to get dressed up in their wedding attire, whether it be a wedding dress, morning suit, bridesmaid dress, mother of the bride/groom clothing or simply a wedding guest outfit.

This spectacular event will raise money for three deserving local charities and organisations: the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation, set up in memory of a Dorset-born soldier to help young people achieve their dreams; the Lewis Manning Hospice which care for over 600 local people each year living with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses, and the Have a Heart Foundation which concentrates on supporting and caring for local children with problems ranging from health issues to more personal matters.

The Wedding Dress Ball is sponsored by Seeker Photography, tasty marketing and Marchwood Coaches, it will be held at the Carrington House Hotel, Bournemouth on Saturday 24 October at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £45 each or £420 for a table of 10. All tickets include a three course meal and can be purchased via the website www.weddingdressball.co.uk. For further information email info@weddingdressball.co.uk or phone 07816 158783.

Operation targets anti-social road users in Christchurch

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

The operation was held last week in response to concerns from the community about anti-social driving and excessive noise from some vehicles exhausts. The concerns had resulted in both issues becoming PACT (Partners and Communities Together) priorities in the Highcliffe and Walkford area.

Safer Neighbourhood Officers were joined by vehicle examiners to target vehicles with modifications, such as body kits and after fit exhausts.

Drivers were stopped in roadside checks, where vehicles were examined and any offences found were dealt with. This included the issue of vehicle defect rectification scheme (VDRS) notices, which were given to drivers of vehicles which were found to have a defect.

Once a VDRS notice has been issued, the driver has 14 days to put the defect right or can face prosecution.

During the one-day operation, about 30 cars were checked, and around 25 per cent had some kind of defect that would lead to the failure of an MOT test.

PC Justin Clarke, of Highcliffe & Walkford Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: “Following the reports of drivers using vehicles in an anti-social manner, the police in collaboration with our partners, have acted quickly to increase activity in the area.

“This has been a hugely successful operation; we have addressed the issue head-on, which members of our community have told us they are concerned about.

“Anti-social driving can encompass careless driver behaviour to deliberate anti-social activity. It not only affects road safety but also the quality of life in the local neighbourhood.”

Further operations are being planned for the future in the Christchurch area.

Taming of the dragon

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

This lucky dragon survived his encounter with St George before an audience of pupils and parents at the Ringwood Waldorf School.

Pupils at the independent Steiner school were performing the classic story of St George & the Dragon, but in their version the ferocious beast is merely tamed not killed.

The dramatisation of this most English legend – part of the school’s Michaelmas assembly – is an annual tradition for Class 3 and every year its children perform it.

The assembly also featured pupils from other year groups singing or reciting poetry, with harvest gifts offered including breads, fruits and nuts.

“Michaelmas is an ancient festival which thanks the sun for the harvest and welcomes St Michael to help us face the cold and dark winter months ahead,” said Christine Polyblank, school spokeswoman.

“Here at school it’s a rousing event where we invite parents to help us celebrate the end of summer and the beginning of autumn.”

The festival also raised £120 for the Macmillan Cancer Fund.

Scrabble Tournament raises £700

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Bournemouth Scrabble Club held a one-day Scrabble tournament to raise funds for the Bournemouth Society for the Visually Impaired (BSVI). The event was held in the Rooper Hall in Moordown, home of the BSVI, who provided runners for challenges and an almost continuous supply of tea and coffee for those in need to help their brain cells.

There were seventy Scrabble players, in groups of 8 or 6, in which they all played each other for 7 games (called a Round Robin). Players came from as far apart as London, Devon and Sutton Coldfield. There were some unusual words played but highest single word score was 167 for ‘Paralyse’ by a player from Southampton.

The day was a great success. Not only did the BSVI raise £191 from the sale of homemade cakes and chutney, Christmas puddings and Christmas cards, and a raffle, but also the Bournemouth Scrabble Club presented the BSVI with a cheque for £500. An anonymous donor gave a further £10 to bring the total to £701.25.

Anyone interested in playing Scrabble in the Bournemouth Area can contact Val for information on 0102 314047 or val.dorset@hotmail.co.uk.

Work on schedule at Gundimore, Christchurch

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Work by Christchurch Council to provide a new shared pedestrian and cycle track between Mudeford Quay and Avon Beach in Christchurch is on schedule.

The greater part of Phase 1 of the work - to provide an access track from Avon Beach – has been completed. Phase 2, which starts in early November, will build a 140-metre-long reinforced concrete extension to the current terracing from Mudeford Quay.

When this is complete, the final part of Phase 1 will take place to connect the access track to the concrete extension and to top off the whole access track with a fine limestone material which will be well-compacted.

When complete the work will provide better access to the beach and will allow licensed sailors to take dinghies down to the water’s edge for launching and allow better access for Highcliffe Sailing Club for their big events, such as the National Championships, which are held regularly.

Cllr Sally Derham Wilkes, chairman of Christchurch Council’s Community Services Committee, said: “We’re very pleased with the way the work is progressing. It will allow us to attract more teams training for the 2012 Olympics to come here, which will give the local economy a great boost, but will also provide a lasting legacy for local people.”

The work is due to be complete by Easter 2010.

The project is being funded by a grant from the government’s Local Authority Business Growth Incentives (LABGI) scheme.

How big is your Bramley?

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

The campus is hosting its popular Apple and Harvest Day where members of the public bring along their unknown varieties of the fruit to be analysed by the Royal Horticultural Society.

This year also boasts a competition to discover the heaviest Bramley Apple brought in by visitors - to mark the 200th anniversary of this traditional variety.

A Farmer’s Market and children’s activities including pot painting and candle making are also being organised, alongside a harvest sale of fruit and vegetables grown by horticultural students at the campus.

The Dorchester Community Choir and the Bagatelle Choir are due to perform seasonal songs.

The event, which is being held as part of National Apple Day, will run from 10am to 4pm.

For more details visit www.kmc.ac.uk and click on ‘events’.

Temporarily red

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

The familiar bright yellow helicopter flown by the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance has been temporarily replaced with a red one.

The reason for the change is to allow the air ambulance to be fitted with TETRA digital radio equipment, which will take up to 21 days to complete.

It is part of a 10-year Department of Health programme to put all English ambulances - including air ambulances - on the same radio system in order that they can communicate directly with each other.

Traditionally, ambulance services in various parts of the country have used different radio systems, with some still on an analogue service, which has occasionally led to communications problems while responding to emergencies.

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance charity manager Charlotte Routley said: “There will be no loss or reduction in our life-saving service during the helicopter’s refit.

“Our pilots and paramedics will continue to fly over Somerset and Dorset and airlift patients to hospital when necessary.

“The only change people may notice is that they will see a red BOI 505 helicopter instead of our yellow one.

“Once the new digital radio equipment has been installed, we will have our yellow EC135 back straight away.”

There will be a financial impact on the charity, however, as it is having to meet the costs of hiring the replacement BOI 505 for three weeks.

Charlotte Routley said: “We do not receive any Government grants, so it means we have to raise all our funds ourselves through the dedication of the volunteers and public who support us.

“It costs £3,500 a day to keep the helicopter in the air, so we need to work hard to raise the money which we have spent on the three-week hire cost on top of our normal overheads.”

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance has attended more than 700 emergencies across Somerset and Dorset this year, taking its mission total to nearly 7,000 since it was launched in 2000.

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

Temporary post office on its way!

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

The Portakabin, which will become Wimborne’s temporary post office is travelling to the town this evening. Its arrival is expected at 7.30pm when the lorry carrying it will turn into King Street and travel the one way system in the wrong direction.

The siting of the Portakabin will be carried out the following morning on the dedicated area in the gravel car park in King Street.

The temporary post office will replace the main facility, which was devastated by fire on 4 July. It took a prolific campaign by councillors and the local MP who launched a petition, which was signed by thousands of people, to press Post Office Ltd into prioritising the matter.

Winners praised for beautiful bloomers

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

Hosted by Haskins Garden Centre, Longham, the guests were welcomed by chairman, Warren Haskins. He said, "As long term sponsors of the competition we are delighted that the In Bloom committee has been able to revitalise the contest following a decline of entrants in previous years."

Town councillor, Steven Lugg announced the winners: Lyn Ovens of Ringwood Road received the overall winner award and came top of the best front garden category. Lyn, who has lived at the property with husband Malcolm for thirty years, has opened the garden to the public for the past nine as part of the National Garden Scheme and this year raised £2,215 for the associated charities. Lyn was present a certificate and a total of £200 worth of vouchers.

Second place for best front garden was Robin and Marie Fitzwalter of Wimborne Road West and in third was Cyril Haywood of Farm Road, West Moors. Highly commended were Sandra Noakes of West Moors, DJ Pile in Ferndown and Mrs K Donovan of Gladelands Park, Ferndown.

Best business or retail category went to Apple Home Improvements at West Parley. Second place was Ferndown's White Heather Public House, followed by Solicitors Luff Brook Carter. The Merchant of Venice Delicatessen was highly commended.

Sue Hook, Manager of the St Mary's Mews Private Retirement Flats in the town won best patio, balcony or terrace category and the best community spirit award goes to Ron Pearce at Homelands House Gardens on the Ringwood Road.

In his presentation, Steve Lugg thanked Sue and Tim Hamlett, the competition judges, who took over five hours to inspect the forty eight entries from residential and business properties that participated in the revived competition.

"We have been greatly encouraged by the support and enthusiasm provided by our sponsor and everyone concerned," said Steve Lugg. "The more streamlined competition combined with higher prize values appealed to residents who enjoy gardening and those who take pride in their business premises."

To encourage others to enter the 2010 competition, this year's winners will automatically go into a separately judged Champion of Champions category.

Cleaner river for white-clawed crayfish

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

River wildlife is benefiting from a new wildlife partnership in east Dorset. Dorset Wildlife Trust’s River Allen restoration scheme, funded by its new Wildlife Partner, Bournemouth & West Hampshire Water, is focusing on in-river restoration, designed to help provide a habitat for fish to spawn and a home for our native white-clawed crayfish.

The River Allen scheme aims to help white-clawed crayfish, currently threatened by the introduced American signal crayfish, by providing what they need - clean water and clean gravel as well as woody debris or large stones for shelter. The scheme continues the work that the fishing clubs and local farmers have been doing to maintain the river. A joint farmland and river project, it aims to encourage wildlife, such as wading birds, back to the area as well.

Sarah Willams, Conservation Officer at Dorset Wildlife Trust says: “The River Allen is one of the best habitats in Dorset for our native crayfish. With only 4 rivers in the whole county where they live, the scheme is very important in protecting them. We are very grateful to Bournemouth & West Hampshire Water for their support on this latest project, which will help all sorts of wildlife to thrive.”

Bournemouth & West Hampshire Water has recently become a Wildlife Partner, having been a long term friend and supporter of Dorset Wildlife Trust since 1995, when it first became a corporate member.

Roger Harrington, BWHW’s Technical Director, said: "We are very pleased to be able to support the important work of Dorset Wildlife Trust, especially in protecting and improving habitats along the River Allen.

“This is an important local chalk stream which runs through the centre of Wimborne. It follows on from other work we have supported over the years aimed at ensuring its habitats and wildlife flourish."

Wildlife Partner status, while supporting conservation across the county, also entitles staff to Dorset Wildlife Trust benefits, including discounted membership. For further details of all the benefits or for information on how your company could become a Wildlife Partner, please visit www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/business_support_investors_in_wildlife.html

One solution to better health

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0000

At this week’s ‘Healthy environment, healthy people’ conference in Poole, health professionals were joined by conservationists and local authorities as well as mental health patients to share tangible proofs that nature really does make people better.

The conference comes at the end of Dorset Wildlife Trust’s 3 year New Frontiers Project which was set up to involve more people in wildlife and their natural heritage, particularly under-represented and excluded groups.

Roger Goulding, from the Heritage Lottery Fund, which funded the project, said: “Everyone needs that opportunity to have their eyes opened. The sad thing is that we are two generations away from many of us having a connection with what’s outside our towns and cities. New Frontiers has achieved so much in a very short amount of time and we will hold it up as a national example of best practice.”

Following regular conservation work session, adults with learning and physical disabilities and people living with mental illness have been found to have reduced blood pressure, reduced blood cholesterol, weight loss, greater confidence as well as taking steps towards more independent living. Work with homeless people, young people and recovering addicts has seen many of the same benefits, in some cases resulting in a commitment to further education, employment or long term volunteering.

Paul Farnell, who experiences mental ill health, has been doing regular conservation work with The Richmond Fellowship on Dorset Wildlife Trust reserves. Paul told the conference: “It has really brought me out since I have been in hospital. It’s more fun than watching TV. I’ve lost weight and I really enjoy it.”

The conference featured Judy Ling Wong from The Black Environment Network and Dr William Bird, who pioneered the link between the environment and health.

Following their speeches, the organisers of Dorset Wildlife Trust pledged to move their ground breaking work forward in partnership with local authorities, health care professionals and other conservation organisations.

Nicki Brunt, DWT’s Urban and East Dorset Manager, said: “We can’t stop now – there is so much to be gained for people and nature together and we are beginning to assemble the proofs that the link between the two is vital for everybody. As Judy Ling Wong put it, ‘there is no such thing as a pure environmental project’ – our work has shown us how true that is.