Developing Christchurch
new year 2014
Although many parts of the country have suffered in the recent recession,
Christchurch seems to have been affected less than others. Many new
developments are already taking place, with more in the pipeline.
Anyone visiting Saxon Square recently will
have seen how much it has been opened up
with removal of many of the canopies over
the shop fronts. Work is also progressing
well on the redevelopment of the old medical
centre, which has lain empty for more than 20
years, into a 68-bedroom Travelodge hotel.
Refurbishment of the Square will be continuing
over the spring with an expected completion
date of May 2014.
Work has recently started to demolish the
former Royal Mail sorting office in Wick Lane
to clear the land for a development which will
include shops, offices and flats.
The former Priory Motors site in Bridge Street
will soon see a development of 44 retirement
flats while up the road in Purewell the previous
petrol filling station site is now occupied by
seven homes which should be completed
before long.
The old Cornfactor site behind Baggies in the
High Street, which has again been empty for
several years, will be developed into retirement
flats with a café and a hairdresser along with
a new pedestrian link between Druitt Gardens
and the High Street.
As reported in the last issue of The Courier,
new housing has recently been completed
in Bronte Avenue and in Hyde Mews off
Clarendon Road, both developments including
elements of affordable housing.
Cllr Ray Nottage, Leader of Christchurch
Council, said: “All of this work is transforming
previously vacant, unsightly or underused
sites into developments which will improve
the appearance of the town centre and bring
new uses for the benefit of existing and new
residents and visitors.
It also helps to bring confidence back to the
market which is bound to encourage further
investment. Christchurch remains a thriving
town and is showing few, if any, signs of having
suffered from the recent recession.”
Indian chef Cyrus Todiwala will be
back at this Year’s Food & Wine
Festival. See page 16 for more.
In this issue...
Interpreting Stanpit Marsh
nature reserve
Page 3
Huge increase in recycling
rate
Page 6
£221,000 funding for
Activate project
Page 9
Work has been taking place at Saxon Square to remove some of the canopies over shop fronts to open up the Square.
Your Courier
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Christchurch BH23 1AZ
Or contact us via email:
[email protected]
or SMS 07781 480191
Useful telephone numbers:
Main switchboard
01202 495000
Automated Payment Line
01202 495252
Bus Passes
0300 3301201
Business Rates
01202 495000
Council Tax
0845 0344569
Garden Waste
01202 221040
Highcliffe Castle
01425 278807
Highway Improvements
01202 221020
Highway Maintenance
01202 221020
Housing & Council Tax Benefit 0845 0344569
Recycling/ Refuse Missed Bins 01202 221040
Street Lighting
0800 0684145
Trees (on highways)
01202 221020
Two Riversmeet Leisure Centre 01202 477987
The Civic Offices are open:
Monday to Thursday
8.45am to 5.15pm
Friday
8.45am to 4.45pm
Cash Office:
Monday to Friday
9.00am to 4.30pm
Visit our website:
www.dorsetforyou.com
If you would like to comment on or obtain further
information on any of the articles in this Courier,
please use any contact details which may be given
at the bottom of articles.
Otherwise contact The Courier by emailing or writing
to the address at the top of this column - please
include a name and address or telephone number in
order that you can receive a response.
Free parking period at
Wortley Road
In order to support local businesses in Highcliffe,
the Council is offering free parking for a two-hour
period during the day at Wortley Road car park.
The free period is from 1pm to 3pm each day,
having been identified by local businesses as the
best time. The initiative launched in December
and runs until Monday 31 March.
Councillors and officers are continuing to meet
to look at other initiatives which will help existing
and new businesses in Highcliffe as well as local
residents and the wider community in the years
to come.
2
A Letter from Cllr Ray Nottage
Dear Resident,
When this council was elected in May 2011 the country was in deep economic difficulty
and it was clear that we would have to make tough but prudent financial decisions to
contribute to a reduction in the national deficit.
We were faced with cuts in regional grants of nearly 50 per cent with more to come in
the future, so the main thrust of our policies has been to ensure you get value for your
council tax, that we maintain the services within our responsibilities and, wherever
possible, deliver more for less in our management of the council.
We have never forgotten that we are working for the community whilst encouraging
local communities to become more involved in, and more responsible for, their own
areas.
I am pleased to report that we are in a sound financial position despite our diminishing
income. We have cut our costs to make sure we are also financially stable for the
immediate future. Our partnership with East Dorset District Council continues to provide
more savings than we predicted and, whilst we have had to make some challenging
decisions, we can now see the financial benefits.
Over the past few months we have been going through a service review process to
make sure we continue to deliver the services you need in the best possible way given
our reduced income. We cannot deny that this has been unsettling to all involved but
our officers have been exemplary through this difficult period working with councillors
to deliver set objectives. The drive for partnerships with other councils to deliver shared
services as in the case of Dorset Waste Partnership (DWP) and the Stour Valley
Partnership - now also in partnership with Poole Council - has resulted in substantial
financial savings. The partnership with the DWP has also doubled the Christchurch
recycling rate and reduced land fill significantly.
We also faced the challenge of introducing a more business-like approach to the
council and making economic growth a key issue. Currently we are working with the
Local Enterprise Partnership and contributing to the Dorset local growth strategy which
will be assessed by government. If successful this will improve transport infrastructure,
especially around Bournemouth Airport, thereby increasing job opportunities in
Christchurch and the whole of Dorset.
We were elected to manage the affairs of the Ancient Borough at a time
of unprecedented economic change. We understood that you expected
us to deliver value for your council tax and that is what we are doing.
We have prioritised Housing, Communities, the Economy, our precious
Environment and council Performance. We are delivering results in all
these areas.
Yours truly,
Cllr Ray Nottage, Leader of Christchurch Borough Council
Residents’ survey
Thank you to everyone who completed the residents’ survey which was sent to a
representative sample of people towards the end of last year. We received just over
1000 completed questionnaires. Results are currently being analysed but initial
findings show that the vast majority of people are happy living in the area with 92 per
cent of respondents stating they were very or fairly satisfied with the local area as a
place to live. However, there are some concerns, particularly around pavement and
road repairs and the levels of traffic congestion.
More than three - quarters of respondents indicated that they felt that local public
services ‘are working to make the area safer’ and ‘are working to make the area
cleaner and greener’. More than two thirds of residents said that they felt satisfied
with the way the council runs things while just over half of respondents (54 per cent)
said that they strongly felt Christchurch Borough Council provides value for money.
The vast majority of respondents (98 per cent) feel either ‘very safe’ or ‘fairly safe’
in the local area during the day. However, this figure drops to 78 per cent after dark.
The results of the survey will be used to see how local services can be improved to
make Christchurch an ever better place to live in.
Visit our website: www.dorsetforyou.com
Interpreting a
nature reserve
A new interpretation and educational display has been
unveiled at the Stanpit Marsh Nature Reserve Information
Centre, focusing on the nature reserve’s wildlife and history.
The main display is an art gallery style collection of original
‘shadowboxes’ painted by experienced natural history
illustrator Lisa Berkshire. Each of the beautiful illustrations
features an aspect of the marsh, including tidal mudflats,
reedbeds, saltmarsh, freshwater marsh, smuggling,
archaeology and bird migration.
Lisa was pleased to be involved in the project and said:
“It was interesting to interpret all the ideas and technical
information from the wardens and the Friends of Stanpit
Marsh and turn them all into 3-d shadowbox paintings.
Included are water rails appearing from behind reeds, an
imagined bird flight departure/arrival lounge and a mock-up of
a historian’s work desk amongst many others you will find.”
In addition, there are a number of interactive displays. These
include tidal and migration automata designed and built by
Rachel Larkins.
Rachel said of the commission: “It was fantastic to have
the opportunity to create site-specific automata which
reflected the diversity of the marshes and enhanced my own
understanding of this rich environment. The commissions
were truly collaborative as I worked alongside my father
when creating mechanisms and regularly received feedback
from Peter Holloway and the Friends of Stanpit Marsh as the
project developed.”
The exciting work has been co-produced by the countryside
service and the Friends of Stanpit Marsh. The Friends also
provided their own display panels of seasonal images and
information about the reserve to complement the overall new
look of the interior and, generously, funded the installation of
bespoke furniture.
Affectionately know as the ‘Stanpit Marsh Pod’, the centre
will delight visitors young and old. Friends of the marsh Ann
Blofield, Sheila Richards and Pam Higginson helped with the
overall design.
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Stour Valley Partnership wins
Excellence Award
The Stour Valley Partnership - the
Revenues & Benefits service for
Christchurch Borough Council,
East Dorset District Council and
North Dorset District Council - has
won an Excellence Award at the
annual Institute of Revenues
Rating & Valuation (IRRV)
Performance Awards.
The IRRV is the largest professional institution operating in the field of
revenues, benefits and valuation. Its annual awards scheme recognises
the work of local authorities in this sector and related private sector
organisations.
The Stour Valley Partnership won the Gold Award for Excellence in
Partnership Working (Shared Services). The success of the Partnership
can be seen through improved collection rates, significant savings, the
retention of skilled staff and further planned technological developments.
It has also just reached an agreement with the Borough of Poole for its
Revenues & Benefits service to join the Partnership.
New policy means safer taxi journeys
A new policy regarding taxis for hire in Christchurch means that journeys
are now safer for anyone calling or hailing a cab in the borough.
The policy, introduced following concerns raised by members of the
public, means that all taxi drivers are now required to pass an English
language test and a ‘knowledge’ test of roads in the area as well as a test
showing that they are well-acquainted with the Highway Code and the
conditions of their licence. A scheduled inspection programme of all taxis
has also been introduced.
Cllr David Flagg, Chairman of Christchurch Council’s Licensing
Committee, said: “We have introduced this policy as a way of raising the
standards for all taxi drivers in the borough and ensuring that everyone
taking a cab has a safer journey.
“We are determined to take this seriously. As an example, at a recent
Licensing sub-committee disciplinary hearing, a licence for a driver and
vehicle was revoked for not complying with the new policy.”
£1 for two hours parking
charge in town centre
A new £1 for two hours town centre parking charge has been approved by
the council and will launch from April 2014.
Some of the new interpretive artwork at
Stanpit Marsh Information Centre
Grange Choral Society concert
The next concert will be at 7.30pm on Saturday 12th April at
Christchurch Priory. The programme will include Dvorak’s Stabat
Mater conducted by Marcio da Silva. Tickets are available
from Hilary Scott on 01202 399139 - £16 reserved, £9
unreserved.
The initiative means a reduction of 60p on the current two-hour rate at the
Saxon Square, Bank Close, Wick Lane and Bypass (Waitrose) car parks.
This reduction will be offset by small increases to the three-hour and fourhour rates in these car parks, with the new charges for these periods also
changing in April to £2.50 and £3.40 respectively. The half-hour rate, only
applicable at Saxon Square, will also increase by 10p to 50p.
Cllr Claire Bath, portfolio holder for Economy at Christchurch Council,
said: “The surveys conducted by ourselves and the Chamber of Trade &
Commerce showed great support for the £1 for 2 hours charge.”
Peter Watson-Lee, President of the Chamber of Trade & Commerce,
added: “We believe the change is a vital step in supporting the town
centre and encouraging the public to use and enjoy what Christchurch is
able to offer.”
3
Portfolio holder for Performance -
Cllr Mike Duckworth
All councils have faced great
financial challenges since 2008
and Christchurch Council is no
exception. It is to the great credit
of this council that it has faced
the challenges head on and in an
innovative manner.
Mike’s role as Portfolio Holder
encompasses the fields of finance,
HR, asset management and
legal requirements, all of which
were high priority areas when
forming the partnership with East Dorset District Council and
becoming part of Dorset Waste Partnership and the Stour Valley
Partnership.
Mike is a retired career banker who spent his working life in
London and the Home Counties. His experience included
managing IT systems integration, Personnel Manager for the
Bank’s Insurance Broking Company and many years as a
Commercial Bank Manager.
He first discovered Christchurch whilst on business in the area
and came for a holiday in 1976. Following that his enjoyment
of sailing, windsurfing and power boating made him a regular
and frequent visitor. Having retired here in 1996 he made the
decision to become involved with the community and spent
some years on a number of local committees including Stanpit
and Mudeford Residents Association, where he was Chairman
for three years, before becoming elected in 2003 as a councillor
for Mudeford and Friars Cliff.
On being elected, as well as wishing to be a good hardworking
councillor, he had an ambition to convert a piece of waste land
next to Two Riversmeet, which hosted the occasional car boot
sale and circus, into a centre for outdoor activities for the young
people of Christchurch.
The first step was the installation of a Skatepark which was
achieved, with the help of members and officers, shortly into
his first term. The synthetic football pitches and the BMX trail
followed in subsequent years and are now a feature of which
Christchurch can be proud. The fact that he had the lead finance
role probably helped more than a little.
Mike said: “I’m proud of my role in maintaining the financial
stability of the council in sometimes very difficult situations and
I’m confident that the future for Christchurch and our partner,
East Dorset District Council, is sound and secure.”
National Osteoporosis
Society (NOS) meetings
The local support group meets on the first Tuesday of the
month (except January and August) at 2pm, in the Howard
Suite, Christchurch Hospital.
They offer friendship, support, advice and information and
members are welcome to bring family and friends as guests.
Next meetings are:
4 February Tai Chi with Paul Lockyer of ‘Natural Elements’
4 March Speaker to be confirmed.
Call 01425 275707 for more information.
4
New Housing Allocations Policy
Christchurch Council has recently agreed a new joint Housing Allocations
Policy with East Dorset District Council.
The Policy sets out how social housing vacancies will be allocated in the
future and will replace the existing Christchurch and East Dorset Housing
Allocation Policies.
The implementation of the new policy will reduce the number of applicants
who are eligible on the Housing Register. The number of people who
are currently on the two Housing Registers (over 5,500 households) far
exceeds the amount of social housing vacancies becoming available
to let. Unfortunately the council is unable to offer a home to most of
the people who apply for housing. This new policy ensures that those
households with greatest need for housing are prioritised for these limited
vacancies.
The policy introduces new qualifying criteria, including two-year local
residency, local housing needs and specific provision for service
personnel. From 18 December 2013 all new applicants have had to meet
these criteria to be eligible to go on to the Housing Register and a letter
has been sent to all existing applicants in January to inform them of the
changes.
Over the course of the next 12 months we will then be applying the new
criteria to existing applicants and working towards introducing a new
online registering system.
For more information on the changes please refer to the Allocations
Policy at www.dorsetforyou.com/housing/christchurch
Stopping metal theft
Metal theft has, over the last few years, had a significant impact on
communities, businesses and councils. The high price of metal as a raw
material drives metal theft and this is likely to continue to be a feature of
the world economy over the next decade.
The Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 came into force on October 1 2013 to
bring about a greater degree of control of scrap metal movement in the
UK and supports legitimate dealers whilst providing powers to deal with
unscrupulous operators. Under the new regime councils will be able to
refuse to grant a licence where the applicant is judged not to be a suitable
person to operate as a scrap metal dealer.
The Act also means that scrap can no longer be bought or sold for cash,
the dealer is required to confirm the identity of the person supplying the
scrap metal and records of scrap bought or disposed of must be kept. If
you would like to dispose of waste metal you can still take scrap metal to
licensed sites. The site dealer will ask for proof of your name and address
and will hold that information on their records. The dealer cannot pay cash
for scrap metal as this is illegal and you will be paid by cheque or bank
transfer.
If a collector comes to your premises without an appointment ask to see
their licence to ensure they are a legitimate dealer. Even if giving away the
metal for free the collector still needs to be licensed otherwise they cannot
dispose of the metal in a legal manner.
Hayloft re-opening
The Hayloft Art and Craft Gallery at 14 Wick Lane, Christchurch (opposite
the entrance to the Regent Centre Car Park) will be opening again on 31
January after being closed for redecoration. Managed by CADArts there
will be changing exhibitions throughout the year, starting with a Spring
Collection. Do pop in regularly to see the different exhibitions of arts and
crafts created by local people.
Visit our website: www.dorsetforyou.com
Litter Free Coast
& Sea Campaign
Regular beach cleaning events have been
taking place at Friars Cliff beach since 2008.
Data has been recorded on the type and
amount of litter collected. This is as important as removing the
litter, so that we can try to source where it has come from.
The data shows that most of the litter (between 40 and 52 per
cent depending on the time of year) comes from beach users
with around 7 to 14 per cent from anglers leaving behind fishing
lines, etc.
The beach litter survey events taking place at Friars Cliff Beach
in 2014 are:
• Sunday 27 April – Great Dorset Beach Clean
• Sunday 6 July
• Sunday 21 September – MCS Beachwatch Big Weekend
Meet on the wave wall below Steamer Point Car Park at
10.30am.
Friars Cliff Beach litter surveys will operate slightly differently in
2014. We are looking for volunteers who would like to assist in
the running of the events with the intention of organising them
fully in 2015. If you are keen to get involved, please let us know.
We also have a community litter pick organised at Christchurch
Quay on Sunday 16 March - meet by the bandstand at 10am.
Want to organise your own event?
We’ll provide advice and equipment if you can organise a
group of willing volunteers to help litter pick a section of the
Christchurch coastline.
Anyone wishing to get involved or to be added to the mailing list,
contact the Open Spaces Team on 01202 495229 or
email [email protected].
welcome to your local solicitors who specialise
in just three areas of law...
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Mudeford Quay watersports zone
The council has recently
converted a section of the
dinghy park at Mudeford
Quay to be used as an area
for watersports lessons and
equipment hire. We are now
seeking expressions of interest
from businesses who wish
The area at Mudeford Quay
to be considered to tender
allocated for watersports
for two licences that will be
available from 1 April 2014. The area will only be for watersports tuition
and equipment hire purposes and therefore that must be the focus of the
business activity. The two successful tenders will be licenced annually
to trade in this dedicated waterside area with slipway launching into the
harbour, along with secure off-road parking for one commercial vehicle
per licence.
If you would like to apply for a tender submission pack then please
submit an expression of interest by no later than Friday 31 January
2014 to: Beaches & Harbour Team, Christchurch Borough Council, Civic
Offices, Bridge Street, Christchurch BH23 1AZ or email: beaches@
christchurchandeastdorset.gov.uk.
If you would like to discuss this new business opportunity
further please contact Gary Foyle on 01202 495070.
Boat Moorings
Christchurch Borough Council can offer Trot moorings on the southeast side of the harbour and Self-laid moorings on the north-east side
of the harbour. Trot moorings are suitable for boats up to 30ft (9.14
m) with prices ranging from £517 to £1009. Self-laid moorings are
suitable for boats up to 28ft (8.54 m) with prices ranging from £260 to
£715. Licences are run on an annual basis from 1 December 2013
to 15 November 2014.For further details visit www.dorsetforyou.
com/387674 or contact Property & Estates on 01202
495061.
Family & Divorce
Wills & Probate
Property
Divorce & Separation
Financial Resolution
Divorce involving business interests
Cohabitation breakdown
Disputes relating to children
Wills
Lasting Powers of Attorney
Administration of Estates
Inheritance Tax
Home visits available
Commercial property
Residential property
Lease extensions
Business sales & purchases
Inter-family arrangements
Avon House, 4 Bridge Street, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 1DX
tel: 01202 484242 fax: 01202 481327 email: [email protected]
SOLICITORS LLP
www.williamsthompson.co.uk
5
Huge increase Waste Wizard winner
in Christchurch
recycling rate
The winners of a schools competition
that helps children learn about the
magic of recycling by conjuring up a
‘waste wizard’ have been presented
with their prizes.
The recycling rate in Christchurch has almost doubled a year
after the Dorset Waste Partnership (DWP) introduced the
‘recycle for Dorset’ collection service.
The borough has seen its kerbside recycling rate increase
from 34 per cent in the period from October 2011 to
September 2012 to 61 per cent in the same period of
2012/13. At the same time, the amount of non-recyclable
rubbish collected in Christchurch has gone down by 42
per cent. The vast majority of rubbish is taken to a waste
treatment facility where additional recycling is recovered and
the rest composted, or used to generate energy from waste
rather than being sent to landfill.
Cllr Margaret Phipps, portfolio holder for the Environment at
Christchurch Borough Council, said: “We would really like to
thank all Christchurch residents for getting behind the new
recycling and waste system. The results show that it has been
a great success.
“We all need to continue recycling wherever we can not only
because of the effect on the environment but also so that
we can save a lot of money by not sending waste to landfill,
which in turn keeps council tax down.”
The range of recyclable materials collected every fortnight has
increased to include plastic bottles, pots, tubs and trays as
well as all paper and cardboard, tins, cans and aerosols, glass
bottles and jars and household batteries. These are then
turned into new products across the UK.
Planning for minerals
and waste
Councils are considering potential new locations for future
quarrying in Dorset, Bournemouth and Poole to be included in
a new Mineral Sites Plan.
Once adopted, this plan will identify specific sites for mineral
extraction in Dorset. The councils would like to hear your views
on 44 sites that have been suggested by mineral companies,
landowners and consultants. For more information, go to www.
dorsetforyou.com/mineral-sites.
A new plan for waste sites in Dorset is also being prepared.
An initial consultation is taking place on the needs for waste
management facilities up to 2030. To find out more, visit www.
dorsetforyou.com/waste-plan. Both documents can also be
viewed at the Civic Offices. You have until 13 February 2014 to
comment.
Public exhibitions where you can find out more are being held
at: Hurn Bridge Sports Club on Tuesday 21 January from 3pm
to 7pm; and Muscliffe Community Centre on Wednesday 29
January from 3pm to 7pm.
For more information, phone Dorset County Council
on 01305 228571 or email [email protected]
6
The Dorset Waste Partnership
asked primary school children in
Christchurch and East Dorset to
make a ‘waste wizard’ at home out of Rose Eastwood with Cllr Sally
items that can be recycled using their Derham-Wilkes and Walter the
‘recycle for Dorset’ collection service. Waste Wizard
Each school picked two winners, all of whom will be given a tour of a
recycling plant and composting facility to see how their waste is turned
into new products. The winning entries from each school were then
divided into Keystage 1 and 2 categories and judged by the Dorset Waste
Partnership. The panel was dazzled by the children’s imaginative use of
recyclable materials to craft their magical characters.
The Key Stage 1 winner was Rose Eastwood from Year 1 at Somerford
Community School. Rose’s pink and glittery lady wizard was magicked
together from a softener bottle, tin can, cereal box, jelly pot, newspaper,
leaflet, yoghurt pots, egg box, milk bottle, food tray and toilet roll.
Rose was presented with fabulous eco packs filled with environmentally
friendly, fun goodies by Cllr Sally Derham-Wilkes together with the DWP’s
own Walter the Waste Wizard.
Give your views on
recycling service
Residents have a chance to have their say about the ‘recycle for Dorset’
collection service.
The Dorset Waste Partnership is keen to hear what you think about the
scheme, which was launched over a year ago in Christchurch, as well
as other waste and recycling services.
During January and February the survey will be available to complete
online at www.dorsetforyou.com/recycle-for-dorset/survey or by picking
up a paper copy from the Civic Offices. Everyone who completes the
survey will be entered into a free prize draw.
Workshop units
Christchurch Borough Council can offer competitively-priced workshop
units for light industrial use on flexible licence terms at Grange Road
Industrial Centre, Grange Road, Christchurch, BH23 4JD. Workshop
units are available from 36 square metres to 169 square metres
with monthly rents from £500 to £1600. For enquiries please contact
Property & Estates on 01202 495061 or email sisaacs@
christchurchandeastdorset.gov.uk.
Dinghy Park
Christchurch Borough Council can offer facilities to store sailing dinghies
and tenders at Mudeford Quay all year round. The Dinghy Park is
available for monohulls up to 15ft (4.6 m) and a limited number of
multihulls. Prices are £227.00 (monohull) or £340.00 (multihull). Licences
run on an annual basis from 1 November 2013 to 16 October 2014. For
further details visit www.dorsetforyou.com/387670 or contact
Property & Estates on 01202 495061.
Plastic
Plastic pledge
pledge for
for prizes
prizes
Recycle
Recycle your
your plastic
plastic bottles
bottles for
for a
a chance
chance to
to win
win an
an iPad
iPad Air.
Air.
Fill
Fill in
in your
your details
details below
below or
or on
on a
a blank
blank piece
piece of
of paper
paper and
and
place
place inside
inside one
one of
of your
your plastic
plastic bottles
bottles for
for recycling.
recycling.
Thank
Thank you
you for
for recycling
recycling more
more than
than 60%
60% of
of our
our waste
waste
Please remember:
Please remember:
• Keep glass separate in your green box
• Keep glass separate in your green box
• Put items loose into your recycling bin - not in bags
• Put items loose into your recycling bin - not in bags
• Use your food waste bin for any cooked or uncooked food
• Use your food waste bin for any cooked or uncooked food
• Extra recycling will be collected if placed in boxes
• Extra recycling will be collected if placed in boxes
Win
Win
iPad
iPad
an
an
Air
Air
For terms and conditions visit dorsetforyou.com/recyclingcompetition
For terms and conditions visit dorsetforyou.com/recyclingcompetition
Recycling
Recycling competition
competition
Entry
Entry Form
Form
I pledge to recycle in 2014
I pledge to recycle in 2014
Name:
Name:
Address:
Address:
Telephone:
Telephone:
email:
email:
Please place inside one of your plastic bottles
Please place inside one of your plastic bottles
www.dorsetforyou.com/recycle
www.dorsetforyou.com/recycle
Join a Christchurch
Strollers health walk
These walks are accredited by the national Walking for Health
programme and are free to everyone. Walks are from a range of
locations across Christchurch and they are weekly, short, easy and
led by trained volunteer walk leaders. The following is the schedule
of walks for the first quarter of 2014. You can also get a handy leaflet
from the libraries, Civic Offices, Mudeford Wood Community Centre
and the Christchurch Information Centre.
Each walk is graded as follows:
A - Easy level walking, mainly paved;
B - Some inclines and uneven surfaces;
C - Steeper slopes and slightly rougher terrain.
Walks from
Grade When Dates for walks
Stanpit Marsh. Meet at the car park
B
10.30 Tues 21 Jan
Highcliffe Cliff top car park. Meet at the shelter near the
Cliffhanger Cafe
C
10.30 Thurs 30 Jan
Saxon Square. A
Meet outside Oswald Bailey
10.30 Tues 4 Feb
Mudeford Quay. Meet at layby on Chichester Way at entrance
to Mudeford Quay car park
B
10.45Wed 12 Feb
Tuckton/Wick. Meet at car park by Wick Lane toilets. Bus X1 to
Christchurch then 1C
C
10.30 Thurs 20 Feb
Civic Offices, Bridge Street
A
10.30 Mon 24 Feb
Stanpit Marsh. Meet at the car park
B
10.30 Fri 7 Mar
Highcliffe Castle. Meet at public B
information board in the car park
10.30 Tues 11 Mar
St. Catherine’s Hill. Meet at C
entrance to Marsh Lane car park,
off Fairmile
10.30 Thurs 13 Mar
Saxon Square. Meet outside A
Oswald Bailey
10.30 Tues 18 Mar
Hengistbury Head. Meet outside Hikers Café
C
10.30 Mon 24 Mar
Mudeford Quay. Meet at layby on Chichester Way at entrance
to Mudeford Quay car park
B
10.45Wed 26 Mar
Highcliffe Cliff top car park. Meet at the shelter near the
Cliffhanger Cafe
C
Christchurch Community
Partnership’s new
annual Award for
The Christchurch
Volunteer of the Year
was won this year by
Chris Potter. Chris
has been a mainstay
of road-running and
cross-country events
(From left) Abi Deeble (Waitrose), Stuart Edwards,
in the area for the last
Betty Hope, Peter Wallis (on behalf of winner
25 years. Last year
Chris Potter) and Lesley Cooke from CCP
alone he helped more
than 17 charities and school PTA groups with his tireless efforts in
organising, marshalling and refereeing races. Burton Christmas 10k
alone has, with Chris’s input, raised £47,000 over the last 10 years
for local causes.
Presenting the awards on 23 October, CCP Trustee Lesley Cooke
said: “This Award is not really about finding one winner – it’s about
celebrating all that volunteers do and highlighting how much
their community work contributes to the life and well-being of the
borough.”
The runner-up was Stuart Edwards who, despite suffering mental
health problems, has devoted much of the last four years to the
Bailey’s café at the Richmond Fellowship in Barrack Road. Stuart’s
understanding and dependability proved popular with others coping
with mental health issues and he became a trusted mentor for
new staff working there.In joint third place were Cressida Belbin
who organises all the voluntary transport for Highcliffe Friends in
Need and Betty Hope who leads the New Horizons Widows Club
and organises all the entertainment at the weekly meetings for 60
people. The trophy was sponsored by Waitrose who also donated a
£50 voucher to the winner.
National award for Christchurch Angels
Christchurch Angels, CCP’s flagship project, won a prestigious
national award in London on 28 November. The Acorn award from
the NHS Alliance was presented to Jan Childs of the Christchurch
Health Network as the winner in the ‘Making a Difference’ category.
It was deemed the best example of a GP’s practice working with
its community to improve health and well-being. The project offers
short-term befriending to local people in times of difficulty, and acts
as a ‘good neighbour’.
Warmest congratulations go to Project Leader Jan Childs, Coordinator Linda Green and Chair of CCP, Sandra Prudom, and the
‘Angels’ who make it all possible. Funding for this ground-breaking
work has been provided by the NHS Christchurch Locality Clinical
Commissioning Group, the Dorset County Community Fund,
Christchurch Borough Council and Sovereign Housing.
New Volunteer Executive Officers
10.30 Mon 31 Mar
Office space needed
Does anyone know of any town-centre office or shop space, or
even a flat, that CCP might rent very cheaply? With the growth
and success of their projects, particularly the new ones, they are
looking to provide more administrative support and a ‘shop window’.
If you have any ideas or suggestions please email contact@
christchurchcommunitypartnership.org.uk.
8
Christchurch Volunteer of the Year
This month CCP welcomes two new Volunteer Executive
Officers, Pauline Dyson (Finance), Rod Darrington (Dial-a-Bus)
and Volunteer Consultant Paul Martin (Project and Change
Management). They replace Colin Hamp and Dan Pile who left us
recently after two and a half years of invaluable and innovative help
and guidance.
Poetry in Design
Winner of the Poetry in Design competition, one of CCP’s
established projects, was Tom Norman from Highcliffe. The subject
was The Norman Heritage of Christchurch, and Tom was presented
with the Quill Award by Linda Patterson of CadArts.
Visit our website: www.dorsetforyou.com
Follow Us: @cb_edd_councils
Use internet or
freephone to confirm
voter details
£221,000 funding for
Activate project
You should by now have received your annual
canvass form. If you haven’t yet returned it you
may also have received a reminder form. Don’t
forget that, if there are no changes, you can
confirm your details for the Register of Electors
via the internet or by freephone. All the information
you need to do this is on the form.
Sport England has given a £221,000
‘Community Sport Activation Fund
Award’ to Christchurch and East Dorset
Partnership for a three-year project aimed
at improving the fitness and health of
residents in the area.
The form only needs to be sent back by post if
there are changes to the details on it.
The ‘Activate Coast & Countryside’ project
The Chairman of East Dorset District Council, Cllr
will encourage regular participation in
Malcolm Birr, accepted the cheque for £221,000
informal sport through a range of taster
on behalf of the Christchurch and East Dorset
and beginner opportunities across
Partnership from Jim Barrett of Sport England
Christchurch and East Dorset. Activities
will be delivered from three high profile sites - Highcliffe Castle, Moors Valley Country
Park and Kingston Lacy National Trust as well as key community locations.
Bournemouth
Careline
If we do not receive a response to the forms sent
in the post, canvassers will be sent to knock on
the doors of properties to confirm voter details.
This will start on 17 January and staff will carry ID
badges. This inevitably adds to the expense of
the canvass and we would ask everyone to take
advantage of the internet or freephone service to
confirm their details or return the form in the prepaid envelope if there are changes.
Activities for adults and families will be based around cycling, running, golf,
petanque, angling, rounders, canoeing, surfing, orienteering and health walks
and will incorporate a number of ‘community games’ to promote opportunities.
Each activity will have a strong progression pathway to ensure people continue to
participate regularly. The project aims to engage with approximately 1,800 new
people each year. Due to the wide scope of activities included in this new project,
a host of new partners and contacts has been developed including local clubs,
organisations and national governing bodies of sport. Kingston Lacy National Trust,
The Forestry Commission and Dorset County Council are key partners in the project,
1 4/8/2013 8:31:43 PM
which Careline-ad-205mmx146mm.pdf
has a total cost of £335,000.
Help at the
Bournemouth
touch of a button!
Careline
Once the Register is published, anyone who
moves house, changes their name or who has
failed to register, can apply to register on specified
dates between February and September.
If you have not received a form, please contact
the Elections Helpline on 01202 495130.
Careline
Careline
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
C
Home Security
Home Safety
Dementia
Falls
1
Help at the
touch of a button!
Home Security
Home Safety
Dementia
Falls
Home Alarm
Unit is installed
1 2
Alarm is
Home Alarm
activated
Unit is installed
M
2 3
Y
CM
Alarm is
activated
Careline
MY
Responds
CY
CMY
K
Equipment can be
rented, and calls monitored,
from
3
999 if required
4
Keyholders /
Responders
999 if required
contacted
£2.99 per week
Equipment
can befee of £30 is payable.
A one-off
Installation
rented, and calls monitored,
from
£2.99 per week
24hr
Careline
Responds
4
Careline
Keyholders /
Responders
contacted
24hr Careline
01202
392 718
A one-off Installation fee of £30 is payable.
9
Second Green Flag for
Roeshot Hill Allotments
A Green Flag Community Award has been won by
Roeshot Hill Allotment Association for the second
year running.
The assessor’s report said: “As an excellent
example of a well-organised community association
that works hard to conserve and manage a valuable
and productive green space, the RHAA is fully
deserving of a Green Flag Community Award”.
Roeshot Hill is Christchurch’s largest allotment site
with over 200 plot-holders and includes provision
of raised-bed plots that have been adapted by the
association to provide better access for members
with mobility difficulties, a point that also impressed
the assessor. Further information on Roeshot Hill
Allotments can be found on the association’s
website: www.rhaa.org.uk.
Keep it Safe. Keep it Hidden. Keep it Locked
We are very lucky that levels of crime and anti-social behaviour within Christchurch
remain low, but it is important that we all stay vigilant and take measures to make
sure we don’t become a victim of crime. There is still a risk of opportunistic crime
such as burglary and vehicle crime. Most of these crimes are ‘spur of the moment’
actions, often taking advantage of an open window or valuables left on display.
Many of the burglaries we have experienced in Christchurch this year have been
to insecure properties or properties where people are away.
If we all take responsibility and make some small changes we can make a real
difference. Basics like shutting windows and locking car doors even when you are
only gone for a minute, or ensuring your garage or shed is secure, can be all it
takes to prevent crime. Looking out for neighbours and reporting anything that you
think is suspicious in your area can have a positive impact on preventing crime.
Why not become a member of Homewatch or start your own scheme in your
road?
Want to know more about home security or Homewatch? You can contact Dorset
Police for further advice: www.dorset.police.uk or call Dorset Police nonemergency number 101.
Zoe’s Wish events
Below are events in support of Zoe’s Wish charity which addresses the needs
of the many people, young and old, around the world who depend on regular
life-saving treatment at hospital or at a specialist treatment centre. Everyone is
welcome to each coffee morning. All events run from 10am to 12.30pm.
Thursday 23 January - Coffee Morning at St Luke’s Church Hall, Burton
The Mayor of Christchurch, Cllr John Lofts,
presented the Green Flag at Roeshot Hill Allotments
News from Age Concern
Christchurch
The New Year is bringing lots of exciting new
developments and opportunities for Age Concern
Christchurch. Their minibus “Thelma” is busy
transporting people to and from their Friendship
Groups and on shopping trips. They have recently
appointed a new Transport Manager who is
working to develop further opportunities for older
people who have limited access to transport.
Reminiscence Group
In partnership with Christchurch Library, Age
Concern is starting a Reminiscence Group. This
is for anyone over the age of 60, living in the
Christchurch area looking for a new friendly group
where they can recall and record their past. The
group runs on Tuesdays from 2 to 4pm. There is
a small “one off” charge of £8 to cover the costs of
materials enabling everyone to produce their own
folio, in addition to which refreshments of tea/coffee
and homemade cake will be charged at £1.50 per
week. Places are limited so please call either the
Age Concern Office on 01202 488311 or pop into
Christchurch Library to enrol.
Could you volunteer?
Age Concern would love to hear from anyone who
feels they can spare a few hours a week putting
something back into their community. Please call
the office on 01202 488311 to arrange an informal
chat or complete an application form on the website
http://www.ageconcernchristchurch.org.
uk/working-with-us/volunteering.
10
Saturday 15 February - Table Top Sale at St Catherine’s Hall, Marlow Drive,
Christchurch. For table information call 01202 470247
Saturday 22 February - Table Top Sale at Bransgore Village Hall, Burley Rd,
Bransgore. For table information call 01202 470247
Thursday 27 February - Coffee Morning at St Luke’s Church Hall, Burton
Saturday 8 March - Coffee Morning at St Catherine’s Hall, Marlow Drive,
Christchurch
Thursday 27 March - Coffee Morning at St Luke’s Church Hall, Burton
Stanpit Boat Jumble 2014
Christchurch Harbour Watch and Maritime Volunteer Service will be holding the
second annual ‘Stanpit Boat Jumble’ at Stanpit Recreation Ground, Mudeford
between 10am and 4pm on Sunday 6 April 2014.
This event gives an early season opportunity to buy and sell a large variety of
boating equipment in plenty of time for the summer. Car parking is just £3 on
the day with a percentage of all money raised going to support the Christchurch
Harbour Watch, Maritime Volunteer Service and local Sea Scouts.
Further details of the event or organisations involved can be had by contacting
David Dale on 07977404524 or by visiting the local Maritime Volunteer
Service website at http://www.mvschristchurch.org.uk/
Christchurch Fairtrade goes bananas
To celebrate International Fairtrade Fortnight, Christchurch Fairtrade is going
bananas in Christchurch on Saturday 1 March.
The Christchurch Fairtrade Celebration Day is from 10.30 to 2.30 in the Baptist
Church, Bargates and there will also be stalls of Fairtrade goodies to buy and
sample from local companies such as Lush Cosmetics. There will be a chance to
win £200 worth of delicious Fairtrade products, donated by the Christchurch CoOp. Tickets are only £1 and will be on sale in the Co-operative Saxon Square and
other outlets locally from January.
For more details contact www.facebook.com/christchurchfairtrade.
Visit our website: www.dorsetforyou.com
Roadworks in
Christchurch
St Catherine’s Hill
Management Plan update
Since the adoption of the ten-year site management plan for St Catherine’s Hill
and Town Common in October 2012, the Management Steering Group has
been working on the implementation of actions. Alongside the site managers,
this group includes the main local organisations with an interest in the site,
including West Christchurch Residents’ Association, Hurn Parish Council,
Natural England and the Friends of St Catherine’s Hill.
The restoration phase of this important local site is now moving forward. Wildlife
habitats, such as heathland and woodland, will be improved and important
features, including scheduled ancient monuments, will be protected.
Dip-wells have already been in place for a year, to allow the monthly monitoring
of water levels. Following the establishment of a baseline, the data will be
passed to a hydrologist for analysis on an annual basis.
Tree felling licences have recently been granted by the Forestry Commission
for the first year works. Areas where selective felling is required have been
prioritised, for instance where trees are in poor condition or to enable better
future access to difficult to reach areas. Trees that should be retained in the
medium term or beyond have been marked with blue paint at the base.
Felling licences, at least initially, are being applied for on an annual basis. This
will mean that any changes to the site will be more gradual and any potential
impacts will be smaller and easier to remedy. Felling works are planned to take
place during the first work season (before 31 March 2014).
Works will be largely grant funded through agreements with Natural England.
Information will be posted at site entrances prior to the start of works.
For any enquiries please contact Christchurch Countryside Service on
01425 272479 or email [email protected].
FREE
‘DROP -IN’
LEGAL
CLINIC
hgwalker.co.uk/drop-in-clinics
Bournemouth:
01202 203200
Broadstone:
01202 692448
Verwood:
01202 823308
Follow Us: @cb_edd_councils
Dorset County Council has announced a number of
road closures in Christchurch over the coming weeks
to carry out road maintenance or resurfacing work. The
closures may not affect the whole road and diversions
will be signposted. In most cases closures will take place
between 8am and 5pm. For further details of any planned
road works or road closures go to http://mapping.
dorsetforyou.com/TravelDorset/Drive/Roadworks or email
[email protected] or call 01305 221000.
In addition to the works below, a 50-metre section of
the northbound Stanpit carriageway, where it joins the
Purewell roundabout, will be closed for three weeks from
Monday 3 February to Sunday 23 February due to gas
works being carried out by Southern Gas Networks. A
diversion route will be signposted.
Everest Road
Bockhampton Road
Waterditch Road
Charles Road
Somerford Road
Hurn Way
Oak Avenue
Braemar Drive
Forest Way
Everest Road Hunt Road
Nada Road Hinton Wood Avenue
30 January - 3 February
3 February - 4 February
4 February - 5 February
6 February - 7 February
6 February - 7 February
6 February - 12 February
12 February - 13 February
13 February - 14 February
14 February - 18 February
18 February - 20 February
18 February - 20 February
24 February - 25 February
25 February - 26 February
Come and enjoy a cup of coffee and chat with
the staff from Harold G Walker at one of our FREE
monthly clinics.
We will be ready to help answer your questions
on a wide range of legal issues be it Family Law,
Property Matters, Wills, Probate, Litigation etc.
LOCAL EPICENTRE - West Moors
1st Wednesday 10am - 1pm
REGENT CENTRE - Christchurch
2nd Wednesday 10am - 1pm
THE JUNCTION - Broadstone
3rd Wednesday 10am - 1pm
ALLENDALE CENTRE - Wimborne
4th Wednesday 10am - 1pm
Appointments
not required
Please not that staff will not be able
to discuss matters that are already
being handled by Harold G Walker
Wimborne:
01202 881454
Harold G Walker
Your Friend-in-Law
11
New Marie Curie
fundraising group
A new fundraising group has launched in Christchurch to
raise funds for Marie Curie Cancer Care. The group, formed
by members of the public from Christchurch and surrounding
areas, have been organising a whole host of exciting activities
throughout 2013. All funds raised by the group will help fund the
local Marie Curie nurses.
Community Fundraiser, Amy Salmon, said: “Two Christmas
Collections took place at Tesco Extra in Bournemouth and in
Christchurch High Street which raised a total of £775, a great
amount which will fund free hands-on care to people with all
terminal illnesses in their own homes within the local area, and
vital emotional support to their loved ones.
“Thank you to everyone who gave up their precious time during
this busy season to come and help collect, and to those who
donated. We would also like to thank the Tesco staff for use of
the store.”
To find out more about the group, please call Community
Fundraiser Amy Salmon on 01884 703537 or email
[email protected].
Changes to mobile home regulations
People living in mobile or park homes normally own their home and rent
the land on which it is stationed from the site owner. Since May 2013
mobile home occupiers have a new law - the Mobile Homes Act 2013
- which gives them greater protection. Now if they sell their park home,
they do not need to seek the site owner’s approval of the buyer. Any site
rules that interfere with the sale or gifting of a home are banned and the
site owners must advise residents if they are reviewing pitch fees, and
must get their agreement for any increase in fees.
Local authorities will also get more powers from 1 April 2014. For
example they could revoke a site licence if the appropriate fees are not
paid, serve a ‘compliance notice’ on the site owner to deal with breaches
of the site licence conditions and prosecute any licence holder failing to
comply with the notice.
If you have any queries about the new Mobile Homes Act,
please call 01202 639319 or email afairhurst@
christchurchandeastdorset.gov.uk.
Do you have a spare room?
If so, do you want to be part of a successful scheme that has been
established since 2009? Nightstop hosts are needed to provide
temporary emergency accommodation for 16-25 year olds for a
maximum of three nights.
Each Nightstop host provides a free service for the young person
including an evening meal, washing facilities, a room of their own for
the night, breakfast and a listening ear if needed in a temporary, safe
environment.
Each host receives full support and will be reimbursed for expenses
every night a young person stays.
If you can help, please contact Action for Children on 01305
820783 or email: [email protected].
The Mayor of Christchurch, Cllr John Lofts, helped
launch the new Marie Curie fundraising group
Christchurch young people’s
achievements recognised
Young people in Christchurch have been honoured in a
celebration at the Lighthouse youth centre which recognised
their ‘out of school’ achievements. Dorset County Council’s
Early Intervention Service delivered this event, but it was
planned and hosted entirely by the young people from
Christchurch Youth Council. Among the young people receiving
awards were six talented musicians and film makers from
The Lighthouse Youth Centre. Dean Wilcox, Robyn Slade,
Jae Langton, Jess Cooper, Henry Weir-Parsons and Liam
Weeks were honoured for participating in an eight-day musicfocused exchange visit to Liechtenstein over the summer.
The culmination of this project was performing at an open air
concert in the mountains. Other successes being recognised
include a group of young men from Somerford Youth Centre
who took part in a graffiti workshop and young people from
Burton Youth Centre who undertook a life skills course. These
young people were presented with The Dorset Award for their
progress and achievement.
To find out more about Christchurch Youth Centres and how
to get involved, please contact senior youth worker Steve
Cox O’Rourke on 01202 588041 or visit www.
dorsetforyou.com .
12
111 bus
Anyone wishing to travel from Highcliffe to Bournemouth Hospital
or Castlepoint might like to know that the 111 bus now goes there.
It leaves Highcliffe clifftop car park at 10am and 12.25pm, then at
2.50pm on school days or 3pm on Saturdays and school holidays,
reaching Bournemouth Hospital about an hour later. Return buses leave
Castlepoint at 8.50am, 11.15am, 1.40pm and 4.15pm, seven minutes
later from the hospital. The full timetable is available on the Yellow
Buses website at www.bybus.co.uk/routes/timetable/111.
Office accommodation
Christchurch Borough Council can offer competitively priced office
accommodation for businesses on flexible licence terms at Christchurch
Business Centre, Grange Road, Christchurch, BH23 4JD.
Office Suites are available from 7 square metres to 26 square metres
with monthly rents from £160 to £400. For enquiries please contact
Property & Estates on 01202 495061 or email sisaacs@
christchurchandeastdorset.gov.uk.
French teacher needed
A volunteer teacher of French is needed for an intermediate class at
Highcliffe Association (Greystones) on Mondays from 10am to 12
noon. Apply to Robert Lucas on 01425 272332.
Visit our website: www.dorsetforyou.com
Follow Us: @cb_edd_councils
Community Centre enters Silver Jubilee year on a high
2014 sees the 25th anniversary of the opening of Mudeford Wood
Community Centre and what better way to start the year than with a
fabulous new kitchen extension.
Local chef patron, Alex Aitken from the Christchurch Harbour Hotel’s
restaurant, The Jetty, cut the ribbon at the official opening in late
November, when representatives from building sponsors Spectrum
Property Care, Hall and Woodhouse, the Talbot Village Trust, SAMRA
and councillors and staff of Christchurch Borough Council turned out
to mark the occasion.
The grand opening was the culmination of many hours work from
Centre trustees and volunteers, with the help of numerous sponsors
and supporters, who worked tirelessly to make the refurbishment
plans a reality.
Chairperson of Mudeford Wood Community Trust who took over the
management of the Centre almost two years ago, Dawn Brookes,
said: “We are so grateful to our sponsors for their donations which
have enabled us to rebuild and modernise our kitchen. The benefits
are already being felt by user groups.
“In addition to our sponsors we would like to say a heartfelt thank you
to the companies who supplied discounted goods or services including
Spectrum Property Care, Purewell Electrical, Aspire Architects, NB
Mills builders and a special thank you goes to Alex Aitken for cutting
the ribbon.”
Plans are well underway to celebrate the Centre’s Silver Jubilee on
Saturday 14th June 2014 - so put the date in your diary and visit
www.mudefordwoodcommunitycentre.co.uk or call 01425 272084 for
more information. The next fundraising event will be the Family Fun
Quiz night on Saturday 22nd February. At £7.50 per ticket to include
fish and chip supper it’s a night not to be missed.
Finally, Mudeford Wood Active Kids ‘holiday club’ for children aged 4
to 11 continues to grow in popularity with fun-packed activities for both
February half term and the Easter holidays, so get in touch for more
information.
Chef Alex Aitken officially opened the new
kitchen at Mudeford Wood Community Centre
Life Begins 50+ Show
A major new exhibition specifically reaching out to the over 50s
and featuring the popular TV chef James Martin is coming to
the BIC, Bournemouth on 23 March 2014. The Life Begins 50+
Show will feature an array of products and services on offer to this
influential group.
Located in the Purbeck Hall, the show will be divided into five
zones (Health & Fitness, Learning, Holidays & Leisure, Finance &
Law and Property zones). Also on offer will be a climbing wall, fun
speed dating, taster hobby demonstrations and James Martin will
be doing three live cooking demonstrations throughout the day.
For more information go to www.lifebeginsshow.com or
follow Twitter @lifebeginsshow.
13
Christchurch Health Cycles
celebrate their first anniversary
Riders who take part in the weekly social cycle group from
Highcliffe Castle gathered together to enjoy a ride and also
celebrated their first anniversary. The Health rides started in
January 2013 as part of a pre-existing funded scheme and will
continue over the next few years as part of the Activate Coast
and Countryside project with the continued support of the
wonderful volunteers who lead and back up the rides and the
staff at Highcliffe Castle.
The rides leave at 10am every Monday, all year round, from
the Tea Rooms at Highcliffe Castle. They are open to all adults
and are free with your own bike, but if you don’t have your own,
you can hire one for a subsidised £4 if booked in advance.
All new faces are welcome, just turn up and ride. They last
approximately one hour and are designed to help you get back
into cycling. There is always a leader at the back so that you can
go at your own pace.
If you enjoy meeting people and think you might like to lead
some of the rides they are always looking for keen people to
volunteer, no experience necessary as free training is provided
and you don’t have to commit to every week as any time you
give helps. Many of our leaders hadn’t been on a bike for years
until coming along on a ride. For more information, to book
a bike or put your name down as an interested leader,
please call the Rangers on 01425 470721.
6x6
Six prominent artists from Christchurch and
surrounding areas are starting 2014 with a new
exhibition at the Kings Hotel Christchurch until 31
January. Entitled 6x6 the self-imposed limit of six works from each
artist is a deliberate strategy to provide the audience with the finest
examples from their current portfolio taking in aspects of abstract,
figurative and impressionism.
SPINNING
CLASSES
@ Two Riversmeet
Visit our website for class timetable
www.dorsetforyou.com/2-rivers-meet
Play more tennis!
If have been meaning to get back into tennis or always meant to take it
up, why not join the Christchurch Tennis League? A mixed sex, singles
league, everyone is welcome.
As players are graded into groups, they play only people of the same
standard and matches are arranged between players at a mutually
convenient time.
Everyone who joins can also get free British Tennis Membership,
worth £25. This gives you automatic entry to the Wimbledon ballot
and a rating so you can compare your standard against others (not as
scary as it sounds!).
There are prizes, worth £20, for group winners. Everyone who
completes three matches by the half way mark is posted a free can of
balls.
The next league runs from Thursday 6 March to Wednesday 30 April
2014 with a closing date of Monday 3 March 2014.
Entry is £12 at www.localtennisleagues.com/christchurch/joinnow. For
more information email: christchurchtennisleague@gmail.
com or phone Sally or Nigel on 0750 328 1732.
Nordic walking
If you have heard about Nordic walking and would like to give it a try
this year, then there is no time like the present!
Come and try a taster session on Tuesday 21 January from Highcliffe
Castle beginning at 10am. But don’t worry if you miss this as there
is then a 4 week “Learn To” course showing you all the techniques
and different ways you can make Nordic walking work for you starting
on 28 January at 10am, also from Highcliffe Castle. Nordic walking
exercises your whole body, if the technique is done correctly. It is great
for overall strengthening and posture whatever your age or ability and
can be done anywhere.
Join our friendly instructor on the course and then for weekly
sessions after that. Book these sessions now by phoning
01425 470721.
Big Energy Saving Network
Dorset Energy Advice Centre and Dorset Community Action are
part of the Big Energy Saving Network for the 2013/14 winter
period. They are offering a number of opportunities for people to
get involved in a project which will help people, and especially
vulnerable people, with energy efficiency advice and help people to
get a better energy deal by either switching their tariff or switching
supplier.
They are looking for people who enjoy talking with members of the
public and who think they would be comfortable talking to a group of
about a dozen people as well as to individuals.
All the materials, including the presentation, will be provided, and the
volunteers will receive training from the Big Energy Saving Network
Champions. The volunteers will assist the Champions in delivering
the sessions.
It is expected that the volunteers will spend two to three hours
training, and then a similar amount of time for each of the sessions
they volunteer to help deliver. Each volunteer will need to help
deliver at least two sessions.
If you are interested in volunteering for this, or would like to find out more,
please contact Becky Windwood at Dorset Energy Advice
Centre on 01202 209417 or email [email protected].
14
Visit our website: www.dorsetforyou.com
Success of young
sports men and women
The success and dedication of young Christchurch sports men
and women was celebrated at the annual Christchurch and
District Sports Council Sports Achievement Awards, held at East
Dorset Indoor Bowls Club.
This year there were over 50 winners in total, with awards
presented on the night by the Mayor of Christchurch, Cllr John
Lofts, for success across a diverse range of sports. Awards
were divided into categories, with 18 bronze awards for county
standard success in sporting competitions, 11 silver awards for
national standard success and 11 gold awards for international
standard success.
There were also two new categories this year with six Dedication
to Sport awards and seven John Moss Sports Coaches awards.
The coaching awards category was created in memory of the late
John Moss, president of the Sports Council from 1997 to 2012.
Follow Us: @cb_edd_councils
Castle’s new season
Preparations for Highcliffe Castle’s spring 2014 season are well under
way. An array of events is taking place with entertainment highlights
including an Antiques Fair on 25 & 26 January, a French Cabaret
Night and a Sherlock Holmes thriller on 29 March. Other highlights for
the year ahead include outdoor concerts and theatre performances,
indoor concerts, craft & gift fairs, car club rallies and a regularly
changing programme of exhibitions featuring the work of many local
artists.
The Castle is open daily, 11am to 5pm, from 1 February until 23
December. Further information on all events and exhibitions at the
Castle can be obtained from the website www.highcliffecastle.co.uk
or by calling 01425 278807. Annual Season Tickets, giving free
admission for two people and many other discounts, are available
priced from just £16. Please contact the Castle or visit the website at
www.highcliffecastle.co.uk/supportingus to obtain an application
form.
Marbleous news for
Castle Archive
A fragment from an original marble fireplace at Highcliffe Castle
has been returned to its home by Thomas Sainsbury, Chairman of
Jonathan Sainsbury Ltd, makers of fine furniture and mirrors.
The young sports stars with the Mayor of Christchurch, Cllr John Lofts
The fireplace fragment was discovered at a furniture restorer in Poole
by Thomas Sainsbury’s son, Jonathan Sainsbury. It is understood
that the rest of the fireplace was cut up and made up into table lamp
stands many of which were sold in the United States.
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[email protected]
15
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It’s all happening at the Regent
Cyrus Todiwala There
is something for everyone at the Regent in the
coming months. Here is just a taster of what’s to come.
to return to
All shows commence at 7.30pm unless otherwise stated.
Food Festival
of Pam Ayres to look forward to on Thursday
There’s still time to catch the Highcliffe
The celebrated Indian chef, Cyrus Todiwala,
who recently appeared in the BBC2 series
‘The Incredible Spice Men’, is to return
to this year’s Christchurch Food & Wine
Festival following his successful appearance
in 2010. This year’s Festival Market will be
held on the weekend of 10 and 11 May with
various establishments in the town holding
their own events during the month of May.
Cyrus, who runs his own restaurant Café
Spice Namaste in London, will be showing
his culinary skills in the demonstration
marquee on Sunday 11 May. Cyrus was
a great favourite in his last appearance
here and is sure to be popular again. The
Festival’s patron, Lesley Waters, will also be
back, appearing on Saturday 10 May.
The Festival will be launched on Tuesday 4
March – Pancake Tuesday – with a pancake
race down Church Street at 11am. Come
along and see some celebrated local chefs
tossing pancakes as they race along the
street.
Further details of the Food Festival events
will be available on the new-look Festival
website in late January at www.
christchurchfoodfest.co.uk.
Charity Players traditional family pantomime,
Treasure Island running from Friday 17
January to Saturday 25 January including a
5.30pm performance on 21 January and a
2.30pm showing on 25 January.
Highlights in February include The Straits on
Tuesday 4 February featuring Alan Clark and
Chris White, original members of the iconic
rock group, Dire Straits. Purple Zeppelin
provide a treat for lovers of heavy rock on
Saturday 15 February and you can dust off
that silver spandex suit for Abbamania on
Saturday 22 February.
The line-up in March includes Gerry
Marsden and the Pacemakers with Gerry
Across the Mersey on Sunday 2 March,
followed by One Night of Elvis with Lee
Memphis King on Sunday 9 March. UK
Floyd are in town on Saturday 22 March
before the month ends with a Regent debut
from Julian and Jiazin Lloyd Webber on
Sunday 30 March.
Moving into April there is a celebration of the
life and music of Karen Carpenter with It’s
Only Just Begun on Friday 4 April, before
The Manfreds return to the Regent on
Sunday 13 April. There are also two nights
24 and Friday 25 April. Her first date has
already sold out with the second night also
selling fast. The Bohemians present A Night
of Queen on Sunday 27 April.
There are a number of local productions
coming up including Guys & Dolls from 11
to 13 February courtesy of Ballard School,
Theatre 2000’s Aspects of Love from 5 to 8
March (2.30pm Matinee 8 March) and Alan
Ayckbourn’s classic Neighbourhood Watch
presented by ImpAct Theatre on Friday 14
March at 7.45pm.
More local companies follow with the Milton
Musical Society presenting Blitz from 26 to
29 March (2.30pm Matinee 29 March) and
BMT Productions presenting Little Shop of
Horrors from 9 to 12 April (2.30pm Matinee
10/12 April), before the Glad Rag Production
Company return with an Easter Holiday
Special from 18 to 20 April (2.30pm daily
Matinee).
For further information and full listings visit
www.regentcentre.co.uk or call the Box
Office on 01202 499199. Like the Regent
on Facebook at www.facebook.com/
RegentCentre or follow on Twitter
– @regentcentre.
Improvements at
the Regent Centre
On Monday 2nd December, the management of the Christchurch
Information Centre (CIC) was transferred by Christchurch Borough
Council to the Regent Centre and its hard working team of dedicated
volunteers, led by the CIC Manager, Sara Stewart-Haddow. The
Regent Centre Box Office will now operate from the CIC until
4.30pm Monday to Saturday. From 4.30pm and all day Sunday, the
Box Office reverts to the Regent Foyer.
The CIC continues to provide all of its usual services including
tourist information for the Borough and beyond, information from
Christchurch Borough Council on community and environmental
matters, coach holidays and ticket agencies for local attractions
ranging from The Mayflower Theatre to the Dorset Steam Fair and
the New Forest Show.
A range of improvements and innovations at the Regent are
also underway, or planned, to build on this new arrangement.
For example the ladies and disabled toilet facilities are due to be
upgraded – indirectly made possible via new office space being
created. A new lighting control room has recently been constructed
which will enable the existing lighting booth in the circle to be
removed and returned to seating.
The improvements don’t stop there, with the Spreadbury Suite and
offices on the mezzanine level between the foyer and the circle due
to be transformed into one large
Celebrating the management of Christchurch Information Centre
transferring to the Regent Centre – Judith Plumley, Eliot Walker,
John Teather, Sara Stewart-Haddow and Cllr Peter Hall
to be transformed into one large reception room, which will be
available for hire as well as acting as a green room for live shows.
New, attractive auditorium lighting has already been installed in
keeping with the Regent’s Art Deco heritage, whilst the cinema
screen will be re-installed, simplifying changeovers between films
and live shows.
In addition the sound desk will be made permanent with a secure
access door, the ice cream kiosk will be refurbished and a second
sound control door will be installed at the entrance to the stalls to
prevent foyer noise travelling into the auditorium.
There will be more changes and developments as the rolling
programme of planned improvements are implemented, so please
watch this space for further exciting updates!
Published by Christchurch Borough Council. Printed on environmentally friendly paper.