east dorset news - Dorsetforyou.com

EastDorsetNEWSInYourassociationwithDorsetDorset County Council and East Dorset District CouncilWORKING TOGETHER FOR DORSETNature’s recoveryRare plants to benefitfrom meadow cut– p9Who does what?The council’s managementstructure explained– p10Summer 2004£1m refurb boostRevamped complex is acentre of excellence– p9FLYINGTHE FLAGWimborne woke in lateMay to the vibrant coloursof 120 gaily decoratedflags adorning the streets.‘Colours In Space’ wasorganised by artists living andworking in East Dorset tocelebrate Dorset Art Weeks.Penny Baldwin, one of theprime movers behind the project,said: “More than 500 adults andchildren were involved indesigning and making the flags.Local artists gave their time tohelp and everyone involved had alot of fun.”Councillor David Durley, LeadMember for Culture at EDDC,said: “This is exactly the sort ofactivity the Council should beencouraging and helping. Culturalevents are central to anycommunity. I think the flags areabsolutely fantastic.”The project was jointly fundedby East Dorset District Council,the local Town Councils andChurches, as well as Dorset AdultEducation.Chairman David PackerPicture courtesy of The Daily EchoCouncil’s newchairmanThe Chairman of EastDorset District Councilfor the municipal yearis Cllr David Packer.He represents ColehillWest and has been amember of EDDC since1999. Prior to that hewas a Director with theTurn to page 9Hear tales to make you laugh, talesto leave you guessing, tales totransport you to another place andtime or send shivers down yourspine.Fabulous stories will be told byDorset’s leading story tellers inatmospheric settings around thedistrict from Moors Valley CountryStandardbearer:Wimborne’scolourful saluteto Dorset ArtWeeks.Summer tales to entertain youPark and The Priest’s HouseMuseum to The Tivoli Theatre in thefirst festival of stories: The Sting inthe Tale.Events will be held betweenAugust 21 and 28. A full list isavailable from Tracy Cooper, ArtsDevelopment Officer, on (01202)639012.

2EAST DORSET NEWSSUMMER 2004Residents welcome estate roads workSeveral estate roads owned by theDistrict Council have undergone atransformation this year.The Council’s Engineering Sectionhas upgraded a number of roadsand footways prior to handingthem over to Dorset CountyCouncil for future maintenance.Lodge Road in Holt and DownleaCottages in Witchampton havebeen completely reconstructed.Residents are extremely pleasedwith the results which haveenhanced their surroundings andimproved the layout and drainageof their roads.Improvement work has also beencarried out at Victoria Close andCandy’s Close in Corfe Mullen,Ashbury Cottages in HintonMartell, Leigh Gardens inWimborne, Dugdell Close on theHeatherlands Estate andCoronation Close in Verwood.Mains drainage for 250 more homesThe installation of public foulsewerage is planned for some ofthe more outlying areas of EastDorset, thanks to a joint initiativebetween East Dorset DistrictCouncil and Wessex Water.Following extensive surveys andinvestigations, it has been decidedto install mains drainage to some250 dwellings in parts of Holt,Gaunts Common (extending toChalbury Common), Longham andColehill. Not all the areas coveredby the surveys were successful inhaving their plans approved byWessex Water but the Council willreview these and decide whetherto submit revised applications infuture.The approval is subject to fundingby the regulator, an application hasbeen submitted to Ofwat to meetthe projected £7m budget.Take thepledge - andhelp cuttraffic speedEverybody agrees that thesingle biggest cause ofroad accidents is speed -or, more precisely,excessive speed.The enforcementauthorities have takennumerous steps over theyears to combat this,including the ever moreprominent roadsidecameras.Vision Wimborne isinvestigating a new andradical approach to theproblem.They are looking into thepossibility of local roadusers taking a SpeedPledge.This involves motoristsrigorously adhering to thelegal speed limits and,therefore, requiringeveryone behind them todo likewise.Speed Pledges alreadyexist in other parts of thecountry and earlyindications show thatpedestrian accidents canbe reduced by 75% inthose areas.For more informationcontact The Director, EastDorset Heritage Trust on(01202) 888992.SPORT FOR ALL ISFITNESS MESSAGEThere are still thosewho think that placeslike the Queen ElizabethLeisure Centre arethe domain of theyoung, fit and sporty.They are wrong.Jan York and JulianneDavies run the Way of Life unitat QELC and some of theirclients qualified for theirDoctors prescibe fitness programmepensions 20 years ago.They regularly see peopleof all ages from 12 to 90.Since 1996 they have beenintroduced to many of theirclients by local doctors throughthe Exercise ReferralProgramme. Patients are sentto them for all manner ofexercise, from gentle walkingto cardio rehabilitation. Theyalso organise smoke-stopevents and instruct peoplehow to manage weight loss.Julianne has been at QELCfor 15 years, having previouslybeen a fitness instructor. Janjoined in the mid-1990s and isa member of the CharteredSociety of Physiotherapy.Hardy folk: tired but happy ramblers reach the top of Win Green – and take a well-earned restThere isn’t much they don’tknow about how to lead ahealthy life.Everyone who goes to seethem is treated individuallywith a unique programmemapped out. If you would liketo know more about theExercise Referral Programmeor the Way of Life courses,contact Jan or Julianne on(01202) 888208.High and mightyA hardy group of walkers braved thescorching sun on May 16 to reach thehighest point in Dorset, the top of WinGreen – a mighty 902ft above sea level.This was part of the programme ofwalks run by the East DorsetCountryside Management Service. Thewardens led walks of varying lengthsfrom two-mile ‘wanders’ to four-mile‘strolls’ to all-day ‘rambles’.The Win Green walk forms part of theCathedral Chase Rambles where thewalkers go from Wimborne toSalisbury Cathedral to Shaftesbury andthen back to Wimborne in 13 stages.If you would like to join a walk, call(01425) 470721 to find out more.Produced by: Communications Unit,Dorset County Council, tel: (01305)224491, working in partnership withthe Communications Unit at EastDorset District Council, tel: (01202)886201.Email: phyde@eastdorset.gov.ukE-mail: yourdorset@dorsetcc.gov.ukAddress: Communications Unit,Dorset County Council, County Hall,Colliton Park, Dorchester DT1 1XJConsultant editor: Sally NortheastDesigned by: Deep South Media Ltd,BournemouthPrinted by: Newsquest Media(Southern) plc, WeymouthDistributed by: Royal Mail andNewshareThis newspaper is printed on papermade from sustainable forests.Our distributors tell us a few copiesmay be delivered to postcodesectors just outside the countyboundary.Even if you don’t live in the countywe hope you will still find the paperan enjoyable read.A ‘talking paper’ version of thisnewspaper is available on cassette.It will shortly be available, free ofcharge, from all of the county’slibraries.

4 DORSET NEWSSAFEGUARDING DORSET’S UNIQUE ENVIRONMENTWe’ve illustrated how Dorset County Councilperformed between April 2003 and March 2004under seven headings that represent the council’scorporate aims. As well as articles about servicesPRAISE FOR COASTThe Jurassic Coasthas been recognisedas one of the mostenvironmentallyfriendly tourismdestinations in theworld.With 95 miles of magnificentcoastline stretching from OrcombeRocks in Devon to Old Harry Rocks atStudland Bay, the Jurassic Coast wasamong 12 outstanding locations fromnine countries to be selected asfinalists in the 2004 World LegacyAwards.Sponsored by ConservationInternational and National GeographicTraveler Magazine, the awardsrecognise excellence in environmental,social and cultural travel and highlightmodels of socially and environmentallyresponsible tourism.Dorset County Council Director ofEnvironmental Services, Miles Butler,said: “It’s great to know that the WorldLegacy Awards panel has recognisedthe World Heritage Team’s positivework in creating new opportunities toimprove the educational use of thecoast, support scientific study, andincrease our capabilities in visitormanagement.“Even though the Jurassic Coasthas been a World Heritage Site for lessthan three years, we’ve made realDorset’s Heritage coast: further international recognitionprogress in ensuring that theseopportunities will be managedresponsibly to benefit the localenvironment and economy.”The Coast was awarded England’sfirst natural World Heritage Site statusin December 2001, putting it on a parwith the Grand Canyon and the GreatBarrier Reef.June 2004 saw the launch ofthat demonstrate how we are working towardsthose aims, you’ll find examples of the national andlocal targets under each heading so you can judgehow well we performed against the standards set.Durlston Castle's renovation as aworld-class visitor experience on theJurassic Coast World Heritage Site.The Friends of Durlston also held aGala Concert on 11 July in aid of theDurlston Castle Project.● Keep your eyes peeled for furtherevents and activities at Durlston andcatch up on the latest renovationprogress at www.durlston.co.ukSUMMER 2004Ramblershelp keeppaths clearThe Ramblers Association isworking in partnership withDorset County Council on anongoing survey of rights ofway in the county, as well as acomprehensive audit ofbridges maintained by thecouncil.Dorset has more than 6,500rights of way – includingfootpaths, bridleways andbyways – covering more than2,800 miles.County council senior rights ofway officer Rod Webb said:“We use our computer systemto randomly select paths to besurveyed.“The data is supplied to theramblers and they go out andcheck whether there are anyproblems such as brokenstiles, overgrown vegetation,gates wired shut and so on. Wethen take action to fix whateveris wrong.”Next year, though, the ramblerswill be using the latesttechnology to survey the 3,000-plus bridges that form part ofthe rights of way network.Using global positioningsystem (GPS) handsets,specially trained ramblers willbe able to feed information onthe state of every bridgedirectly into the computersystem at County Hall – a fastand accurate solution to amassive logistical undertaking.Wildlife TV star to open festivalTV presenter and wildlife enthusiastChris Packham will be opening thisyear’s Heathland Festival on Sunday 19September at Avon Heath Country Park.The heathland devotee will be sharinghis passion for this exceptional habitatwith the thousands of visitors expected,getting involved with children’sworkshops and leading an excitingsafari around the park for the luckywinners of a heathland competitiondraw.The festival features live music,storytellers, stalls, theatre, giant mural,How the council is performing for youTargetOutcome2,500 tonnes of recycledmaterials used in roadconstruction.tree climbing with plenty of activitesand opportunities to have a go attraditional crafts like basket making,sculpting clay tiles and building around house.Dorset’s heaths are internationallyimportant and the festival is a chancefor people to find out how theheathland has been used over the yearsand about its outstanding wildlife.The event is organised and funded bythe Urban Heath’s Life Partnership,Hardy’s Egdon Heath Project, DorsetCounty Council, the RSPB andGreenlink.The event runsfrom 11am to4pm on Sunday19 September.12,482 tonnes used. Thecouncil’s partnership withHanson has made storagespace available so thatmaterials from roadworks canbe held for future schemes.● For moreinformation callCarol Dawkins on(01425) 478470or CatherineBellars on(01425) 489803.WIN a VIP place on an exclusive guidedwalk with CHRIS PACKHAMTo win an exciting opportunity foryou and your family to joinwildlife enthusiast Chris Packhamin exploring the wilds of AvonHeath Country Park at theHeathland Festival, simplyunravel the anagrams below.Dorset’s heaths are home toall six British reptiles, some ofwhich are not found anywhereelse in the country.Can you unscramble the followingto name two of these reptiles?1.) derda2.) mconmo zalridReturn your answers on the coupon byFriday 17 September 2004. The winnerswill be the first four entries drawn at theHeathland Festival at 12 noon on Sunday19 September. You must be present forthe draw to claim your opportunity to joinChris Packham on the walk. Children mustbe accompanied by an adult, and amaximum of four people per entry cantake part.(In the case of very poor weather the walk maybe called off.)Reptile anagrams1…………………………….....2………………………………PLEASE USE BLOCK CAPITALSName..........................................Address................................................................................................................................................................................................e-mail…………………………How many will participate (max 4)?.................................................These details will be kept by Avon HeathCountry Park until the draw, but will notbe passed on to anyone else.Return to: Carol Dawkins, Avon HeathCountry Park, Birch Road, St. Ives,Ringwood, BH24 2DA

SUMMER 2004 5DORSET NEWSSTRENGTHENING OUR COMMUNITIESImprovingquality of lifefor all DorsetA partnership of more than100 organisations launchedDorset’s first CommunityStrategy earlier this year.Compiled by the DorsetStrategic Partnership, thestrategy deals with the bigissues facing people andcommunities in the countythat cannot be dealt with bya single organisation alone.Consultation with localpeople, parishes, towns andother organisations acrossDorset has emphasised theproblems faced by localcommunities, including alack of affordable housing,low wages, shortage ofservices in communities andtransport problems.The Strategic Partnershiphas identified the worknecessary to tackle theseproblems and, by workingtogether, aims to deliver newsolutions that will improvethe quality of life for peopleand communities in Dorset.PARTNERS IN PLANMajor plans to improvecare for older peopleand those with learningdisabilities in Christchurchare beingcombined with anaffordable housingscheme for key workersand families.The development atJumpers Road, Christchurchwill include a new day centre toreplace the Juniper Centre, 26homes for families and keyworkers, an 80-bed residentialhome and 43 ‘extra care’ flatsfor older people, as well asnew offices for staff.The project, on land ownedby Dorset County Council, is apartnership involving a numberof agencies, including twohealth service trusts and theMacmillan Cancer Trust.The first phase will be thedevelopment of an 80-bedresidential home and a newday centre for people withlearning disabilities, with socialNew plans aim to help a range of local peoplecare offices above.Phase two will involve thedevelopment by East DorsetHousing Association of 43extra care flats for older peopletogether with around 26affordable homes for familiesand key workers.Speaking for thepartnership, Gill Slade, theCounty Council’s Head ofStrategic Commissioning andPerformance Review, said:“This is a great opportunity torespond in a new way to thecare and housing needs of thepeople of Christchurch, and toupdate old, outdated buildingslike the Juniper Centre.“It’s also a very goodexample of how differentagencies can achieve muchmore by working together.”The partnership comprisesDorset County Council, theMacmillan Cancer Trust, EastDorset Housing Association,Christchurch Borough Council,South and East Dorset PrimaryCare Trust and the RoyalBournemouth and ChristchurchHospitals NHS Trust.New websiteeases accessto car schemeA new Dorset CommunityTransport website hasbeen launched thatenables people to find thedetails of voluntary carschemes across thecounty quickly and easily.Voluntary transportschemes are aimed atpeople who are unable todrive and who needtransport to doctors, tocollect a prescription, oreven to do their shopping.Searched by town orvillage, the site providesdetails of all the schemesin the area, giving chargesand contact details.With funding from theCountryside Agency,through Dorset’s RuralTransport Partnership,Dorset Community Actioncommissioned DorsetCounty Council to design,produce and host the newsite atwww.dorsetcommunitytransport.org.ukHow the council is performing for youTargetOutcomeWork with partner agenciesacross the county to significantlyincrease the number of rentedunits of subsidised affordablehousing by 31 March 2006.Replace or improve 20 villagehalls with County Council grants.Change your life withMore than 770 units are expectedto be complete by the targetdate.Target met. In fact, 22 villagehalls have benefited.Autumn WeddingFayreat theWestover RoadBournemouthOver 70 weddingspecialists offering helpand advice to make sure yourspecial day runs smoothlyDaily FashionShows!Saturday 18th & Sunday 19thSeptember 2004Free information and advice for adults about learning andwork opportunities.We can help you with:● Finding the right course● Changing your career● Job hunting, CVs and interview skills● Advice on childcare, money and travelSpeak to one of our local advisers on FREEPHONE0800 138 5550www.connect2learning.co.ukOpen Sat 10am – 5pm & Sun 11am – 5pmAdmission by registrationAdult £2.50 Seniors & accompanied children 16 & under FREERegister & be automatically entered in to the show draw to win aWeekend Away at a Local Hotel or a magnum of champagne!Organised by BIC Exhibitions. Tel: 01202 456501Bournemouth International CentreExeter Road Bournemouth DorsetEmail: exhibitions.bic@bournemouth.gov.uksupported bywww.bic.co.uk

6DORSET NEWS SUMMER 2004MAKING COMMUNITIES SAFERACTION ON VIOLENCEDomestic violence accountedfor one in five of allviolent crimes, according tothe government, whichannounced an overhaul ofdomestic violence legislationin June.The Domestic Violence, Crimeand Victims Bill will use £4m fromthe proceeds of crime to set up avictims’ fund. It includes measuresto make offenders pay morecompensation to victims, makesbreaching a non-molestation orderpunishable by up to five years inprison and gives stronger powers tocourts to impose restraining orderswhen necessary.In Dorset, Crime and DisorderReduction Partnerships havefunded a Domestic Violence Officerwho is hosted by the CountyCouncil.Nicola Pengelly, who startedwork in May, provides a main pointof contact between all agenciesinvolved in tackling domesticviolence across the county,promoting best practice, helpingwith fund-raising and co-ordinatinga county wide strategy.She says, “Anyone canexperience domestic violence – itcan happen in all kinds ofrelationships and for any reason.“People suffer domestic violenceregardless of their social group,class, age, race or sexuality. Theviolence can take many forms fromphysical assault and sexual abuseto psychological abuse such asthreats and criticism.“Typically, the abuse gets worseover time and involves theperpetrator exercising some form ofcontrol over the victim.”Crime and Disorder ReductionPartnerships include the CountyCouncil, District and BoroughCouncils, Police, Health and FireAuthorities, and there are manyagencies that support the victims.Helping hand: domestic violence can happen regardless of social group, class, age or raceHow the council is performing for youTargetOutcomeTo reduce the re-offending rate ofyoung offenders by 7% to 26.5%by the end of 2005.6% annual reduction in the totalnumber of people killed orseriously injured in roadaccidents.6% annual reduction in thenumber of children aged up to 15who are killed or seriously injuredin road accidents.Measured at end 2003, the reoffendingrate was 26.8%.Performance to date has beengood.The number reduced from 351 to298 in 2003. This represents a 15%reduction in accidents against atarget of 6%.The number reduced from 26 to 21in 2003, representing a 19%reduction in accidents against atarget of 6%.One-stop website works for youWork continues at a fast pace onthe creation of a one-stop-shopDorset website, due to belaunched to the public in Octoberthis year.Dorset For You is a joint websitebringing together a wealth ofinformation for the public from allthe councils in Dorset.In addition to this, Dorset For Youwill also enable people to conduct24-hour on-line transactions withall the councils involved.This will range from renewing alibrary book or paying council taxthrough to registering a faultystreet light, making a planningapplication or applying for a jobon-line.The possibilities are endless, withhundreds of services eager todevelop this new form of customerrelationship.The first stage of the project dealswith the large rural area of thecounty. But it is planned to widenlinks to the unitary authorities ofPoole and Bournemouth as well aspolice, fire, health and manyothers at town and parish level.On-line services are not the onlysolution for our customers, butthey can complement both the useof the telephone or personal visits.They are designed to be a helpfulalternative for people living in themore rural areas of the county, aswell as for those who are notalways able to conduct theirbusiness with the council duringthe standard working day.Watch the next edition of YourDorset for more news on DorsetFor You.20mph zoneslashes childcasualtiesStay safe: the 20mph zoneThe number of children killed andinjured on Dorset’s roads is beingreduced thanks to safety schemes likethis one in Sherborne.The Government’s road safetystrategy, Tomorrow’s Roads – Saferfor Everyone, set a target to halve thenumber of children killed or seriouslyinjured by 2010.The Sherborne 20mph zonescheme to reduce child casualtieswas awarded government funding inDecember 2000 as part of a range ofinitiatives to support this target.The scheme is in a denselypopulated residential area of the townwith a local primary school at thecentre and a secondary school on thenorthern edge.Some 1,600 pupils attend theschools and research showed that,over five years, 41% of casualtieswere pedestrians or cyclists agedbetween 0-16.In the two years following thelaunch of the scheme there has beena 72% reduction in child pedestrian/cyclist casualties.Other benefits to the communityinclude traffic speeds reduced by anaverage of 5mph and a safer andmore pleasant environment. This,together with School Travel Plans,has contributed to an increase of 21%in the numbers of pupils walking to thelocal schools and a decrease of 14%in those arriving by car at the primaryschool.Smoother path forbuilding applicationsAll the building control applications fromDorset County Council’s PropertyManagement Division are now beinghandled by West Dorset District Council.The applications typically deal withalterations in schools, libraries and socialhealth and care properties.Previously, each district council woulddeal with County Council applicationsconcerning its own patch, but now allCounty Council schemes go straight toWest Dorset District Council for approvaland then the local district council carriesout the site inspection.On average processing eachapplication is taking two weeks less sincethe change was made.

SUMMER 2004 7DORSET NEWSSUPPORTING LEARNING AND ACHIEVEMENTA SENSE OF ACHIEVEMENTYoung people at risk ofleaving school with noqualifications arebenefiting from aninnovative County Councilscheme.The council is working hard totackle the problems encountered insome of Dorset’s more deprivedcommunities, such as parts ofWeymouth, Portland and theGrange ward of Christchurch.If the scheme reaches a targetagreed with the Government, thecouncil will win a grant of over£600,000 to develop the project,which involves helping schoolsimprove and working with parentsand the youngsters themselves.The council’s Youth andCommunity Service is leading aproject in Christchurch, with arange of statutory and voluntaryagencies to help and supportyoung people aged 15-19 who arenot in education, work or training.Mike Yates, a youth worker inChristchurch, has been workingwith a group of 15-16-year-oldsfrom the Inclusion Unit at TheGrange School to improve theirself-confidence and help give thema sense of achievement.Each week they take on a rangeof activities leading to a bronze orsilver award for key skills. Oneactivity has been budgeting andplanning for a meal, doing theshopping and preparing the meal.Mike said: “When they first didthe task it was a complete mess,but they are developing awarenessof the need to work together. Thesecond meal they cooked wasmuch better – they all pulledtogether and worked reallyeffectively.”Youngsters allset to learnskills for lifeDorset youngsters are learning skillsto prepare them for work and life in ascheme linking them with localbusinesses.The County Council supports thenational Trident scheme, which aimsto recognise all the activities thatstudents are involved in other thanschool lessons.Completing Trident can helpstudents develop the skills andpersonal qualities they need at workand is supported by a number ofDorset companies.One company is ThomsonEngineering Skill Centre inWeymouth, which has hosted twostudents from Dorchester LearningCentre for two days a week sinceNovember 2003.One student, 16-year-old KarnStandley, has thoroughly enjoyed hisHow the council is performing for youTargetOutcome6 outreach teachers appointedfor children with specialeducational needs.94% of pupils in LEA maintainedschools achieving 1 or moreGCSEs at grades A* to G.80% of pupils in LEA-maintainedschools to achieve level 4+ atKey Stage 2 maths.85% of pupils in LEA-maintainedschools to achieve level 4+ atKey Stage 2 English.Engineering a future: Karn working at Thomson Engineering Skill Centrework experience and the companywas so pleased with his progress theyoffered him a place on a full-timetraining course.Schoolchildren produced stunning artworks on a Jurassic theme aspart of an exciting project for Dorset Art Weeks.The Can Do project involved children from Bridport St Mary’s PrimarySchool and neighbouring Mountjoy Special School, who worked with aprofessional artist to create artworks from found and recycledmaterials.Meanwhile, Purbeck School students worked with a visually impairedartist from the Holton Lee centre, near Wareham, to produce a series ofwillow sculptures inspired by the fossils, animals and insects ofPurbeck.Can Do, organised by the Dorset Art Weeks Association and theCountry Council’s DepARTureArts, aimed to raise children’sawareness of different needs andhelp them recognise what isspecial about their environment.This means that he can continueto study for his NVQ in the PerformingEngineering Operations qualificationwhile earning a salary.Dinosaurs seen stalking the Dorset landscape once more5 teachers appointed. Althoughthe target hasn’t been achieved,each Special School hasreceived financial support inorder to recruit outreachteachers.At 93%, this year’s performancedoes not meet the nationaltarget, but is above the nationalaverage.Our performance at 73.9% is animprovement on the previousyear and above the national rateof improvement.Our performance at 75.7% isabove average but lower than2002 results. This reflects thenational picture.Children fromBridport's Mountjoy school decided on adinosaur theme. Inset: the 'child' at the backisn’t real, but part of the artwork

8DORSET NEWS SUMMER 2004IMPROVING ACCESS FOR ALL SECTIONS OF THE COMMUNITYHOME HELP FOR BOOKSFor people who can’t get outto the library a selection ofgood books delivered to thedoor can be a blessing.The County Council works with theWomen’s Royal Voluntary Service(WRVS) to offer a free Home LibraryService for people who are unable toleave home due to ill health or disability.Books, including large print andtalking books are delivered to people’shomes regularly, free of charge, byvolunteers recruited by the WRVS.Requests can be made for specificbooks or subjects and are available foranyone of any age who experiencesdifficulty in using a library.Anyone interested in volunteering tohelp provide this valuable serviceshould contact their local library.● For more details about receiving theHome Library Service, contact your locallibrary or telephone (01305) 225000.FOCUSHusband and wife team Alan andBetty Brown have built upexcellent relationships with thepeople on their book deliveryround.Covering the Highcliffe area, thecouple visit 10 people in theirhomes every three weeks with aselection of titles.Betty said: “A profile is done bylibrary staff for each person tofind out what they enjoy, but wealso get to know their likes anddislikes.“We’re been doing this for 15years and we’ve had at least three100-year-olds. They’re sointeresting to talk to and this iswhat’s so rewarding about doingthis. We get really attached tothem.”How the council is performing for youTargetOutcomeTo improve electronic access tothe County Council by achievingand maintaining the RoyalNational Institute for the Blind’s‘See it Right’ websiteaccessibility accreditation by 31March 2005.To help 80 disabled people ofworking age into employment byMarch 2006.To increase to 29% thepedestrian crossings with fullfacilities for disabled people.Express delivery: Betty Brown helps Norah Bushell choose her library books at homeRNIB audit completed in April2004. Progress is on target toachieve accreditation by the duedate.We are making good progress:during 2003/04, 22 disabledpeople had already been helpedinto employment.32.5% of crossings now have fullfacilities for disabled people(92% of pedestrian crossingshave some form of disabledadaptations).Alan added: “For some people thisis their main interest and theyreally look forward to seeing usand having a chat.”One of their regulars is NorahBushell, 91, who gets through sixto eight books in three weeks.She said: “I’ve always been anenthusiastic reader but I just can’tget to the library any more. I brokemy hip and I’m not long out ofhospital so this is a really goodservice for me.”Another regular, Joan Mullineux,said: “This is a wonderful service,I don’t know what I’d do withoutit.”Library reopens after major refitChristchurch library has recently reopenedafter extensive refurbishmentof the Grade II listed building on theHigh Street.Improvements have resulted in abrighter library, with better accessinside and out.Automatic doors into the librarynow give easy access to all visitorsand the inquiry desk has been mademore accessible.Technology isput to good useHi-tech video conferencing issaving time and reducing costs forCounty Council staff andcouncillors.Introduced earlier this year,video conferencing is a userfriendlyway of communicating thathelps avoid unnecessary travel,saves time, improves services andreduces costs.There are nine videoconferencing facilities in locationsfrom Weymouth to Verwood, wherestaff and councillors can talk faceto-facewithout the need to travel.Video conferencing facilities inWeymouth Library and VerwoodLibrary are also available to localpeople, allowing them to speak to aTrading Standards Officer inDorchester and show them faultyor suspect goods.Video combatsracism in schoolEthnic minority children havehelped produce a video which aimsto combat racism in Dorset’sschools.The 25-minute film, producedby the council’s Ethnic MinorityAchievement Service, featureschildren from St Leonard’s MiddleSchool in Blandford.Their families originate frommany different parts of the world,including Bangladesh, Nepal,India, Thailand, France, Jamaica,Nigeria and Turkey and almost allspeak at least two languages.The children describe some ofthe difficulties they face, whether itis practising their religion duringthe school day or having totranslate school letters for theirparents, and some describeexperiencing racism.The video will soon be availableas a training resource for Dorsetschools and may also be sold toother education authorities.New bookshelves have beeninstalled to display the library's 24,000books, two more computers havebeen added, making a total of 14, andthere are more facilities for people tostudy.The new facilities will benefitexisting borrowers, community groupsand societies who regularly use thelibrary as well as encouraging morepeople to join.

SUMMER 2004 9EAST DORSET NEWSSimply the nest . . .visitors get secretpeep at natureVisitors to theMoors Valley VisitorCentre this springwere enthralled tobe able to seeinside the nest-boxof a great tit. Acamera in the boxwas connected to atelevision andvisitors were ableto watch the femalesitting on her eggsfor 12 days andthen franticallyfeeding the fivechicks once theyhad hatched.A STRONG NEW VOICEFOR THE COMMUNITYRare plants tobenefit frommeadow cutsSpring signalled the end ofthe felling season for thewardens of East Dorset’sCountryside ManagementService. Now they areconcentrating oncontinuing the grazingprogramme for themeadows at Moors ValleyCountry Park and othersites around East Dorset.The wet meadows at MoorsValley are particularlyvaluable for the wild flowersand invertebrates foundthere. Since the foot andMore than 100 localpeople have registeredinterest or attendedmeetings of theWimborne & DistrictLocal Action Group,established in July 2003as part of the EastDorset CommunityPartnership process.Themed sub-groups havebeen established to helpprogress action. Theseinclude: Crime & Safety,Transport, Youth and Housing.John Shave, chair of theLocal Action Group, said: “It isonly by working together as acommunity that progress canbe made. The Local ActionGroup can act as a voice forthe community to ensure thatservice providers understandand address our needs andpriorities. It can only do thiseffectively if residents becomeinvolved.”The Group has contributedto key local issues, includingWimborne alcohol-free zone,Leigh Park Post Office and theVictoria Hospital Minor InjuriesUnit.Further consultation isplanned to identify futureissues and priorities. Actionplans can then be formulatedto progress matters with therelevant organisations.Meetings are held everytwo months across Colehill,Furzehill, Holt and WimborneMinster from 7:30-9pm. Formore information contactJackie Morris (01202) 886201.Orienteers at Moors ValleySome 110 competitors entered the Dorset Schools OrienteeringChampionships at Moors Valley Country Park on May 14,organised by Wimborne Orienteers Club.The event was open to pupils between the ages of 10 and 18.Clayesmore Prep beat 19 other schools in thePrimary/Middle/Prep School class. The eight-strong SecondarySchool class went to Bishop Wordsworth School.On May 8 the outgoing Chairman of EDDC, Mrs Ann Warman,officially opened the Permanent Trail Orienteering Course at thepark, the first of its kind in the south-west.Revamped complex isa centre of excellenceThe Wimborne Community Learning and Resource Centrehas an excellent programme of courses offering learningopportunities for the community and voluntary sector.Following its £1m refurbishment, the centre is regardedas one of the best adult learning venues in the county.It is managed by Dorset Community Action (DCA) onbehalf of DCA, the Learning and Skills Council and DorsetCounty Council.For enquiries about courses please ring (01202) 847600.For room hire and general enquiries call (01202) 847602.District Council’s new ChairmanFrom page 1London Borough of Camdenfor ten years and spent sixyears on the Board of BritishTelecom. He also served withthe RAF, where he rose to therank of Wing Commander.During his year as Chairman ofCouncil, his nominated charityis CLIC (Cancer and Leukaemiain Childhood), a nationalcharity committed to providingan all-embracing approach tothe care of children withcancer and leukaemia.Cllr Packer said: “I am lookingforward to generous supportfrom the community.”mouth epidemic, however,they have not been grazedas intensively as wouldhave been preferred formaximum conservationbenefit.Therefore, three of themeadows have been cut, byAlaska Environmentalcontractors, to enable themto be grazed once againthis summer. This willbenefit many plants such asragged robin (pictured), bogmyrtle, sundew and the raremarsh gentian.A gift forrecyclersPeople living in VictoriaClose, Corfe Mullen, havebeen given a giantcomposter by EDDC’sRecycling Officer HarryCromwell.Residents have beenworking to design a gardenand play area for the estate.Steve Parkin, Chairman ofthe Tenants and ResidentsAssociation, taking deliveryof the oversized compostbin, said: “Our vision is agarden that all ages canenjoy.”Councillor QueenieComfort, Lead Member forHealth and Housing atEDDC, said: “There are anumber of flats here withoutgardens so a sharedcomposter is an ideal wayof getting rid of householdwaste while helping theenvironment.”

10 EAST DORSET NEWS SUMMER 2004EAST DORSET NEWS 11Audit Commission completes first ever inspection of District Council’s performance‘GOOD’ VERDICT ON COUNCILEast Dorset District Councilhas been judged ‘Good’ by theAudit Commission in its firstever inspection of district andborough councils in thecounty.In February all the Councils wereinspected by the Audit Commission in aprocess called the ComprehensivePerformance Assessment (CPA) whichis similar to an Ofsted inspection inschools.Derek Burt, Leader of the Council,TheGoldenThreadTen Service Units carryout the day-to-dayfunctions of theCouncil.Their work directlyrelates to the SixStrategic Themes.The Heads of Servicereport to the ChiefExecutive but workclosely with the LeadMembers.Each Service Unit has avariety of functions andevery cost centremanager has producedbusiness plans for theirspecific areas ofresponsibility.These business planseach identify which ofthe Strategic Themesrelate to its work.This identifiable andmeasurable connectionbetween everything theCouncil does is knownas the Golden Thread.It runs througheverything the Councildoes.said: “I am very pleased that theCouncil has been judged as ‘good’.“It reflects the excellent workingrelationship between Members andOfficers of the Council. It also reflectsthe close working relationship theCouncil has with its partners, enablingthe delivery of such high qualityservices to the community.”The Council spent a year preparingfor the inspection and undertook a dryrun in September called the PeerChallenge.This enabled the Council to improveEast Dorset District Council management restructureThe management structure of East Dorset DistrictCouncil has been trimmed and reorganised tomake it more efficient and cost effective.Following the CPA inspection in February and theretirement of the District Environmental ServicesOfficer in April, the Council has done away withits divisional structure and top layer ofmanagement.It has redefined its vision and reorganised itsStrategic Themes under the Elected Members.on its strengths and address areas forimprovement.Alan Breakwell, Chief Executive ofthe Council, said: “I am very pleased foreveryone involved with the Council andthe agreed improvement plan will allowthe Council to further develop andimprove in the future.”A team of four inspectors were atEast Dorset for a week with fullauthority to delve into any aspect ofCouncil business.The team took into account how wellthe Council runs, manages its financesand deals with claims for benefits, aswell as looking at: how well the Councilunderstands its housing markets; andhow it contributes to the managementof the physical environment.The Council presented hundreds ofdocuments to support its work and theinspectors interviewed ElectedMembers, Council Officers and peoplefrom partner organisations.All the District and BoroughCouncils were judged on pre-setcriteria so the Commission couldcompare them realistically.All officers now report to the Chief Executive,Alan Breakwell. The former District PlanningOfficer, Geoff Cross has taken the new role ofPolicy Director. EDDC is unique among Dorsetcouncils in adopting this modern structure.Six Strategic Themes underpin the work of theCouncil. They incorporate the priorities set out bythe Members and are at the heart of the CorporatePlan. Each theme has a Lead Member andcorporate objective.CommunityLead Member, Councillor Maureen GodfreyTo provide a safe, inclusive and sustainable environment where the needs of all areaddressed.CultureLead Member, Councillor David DurleyTo provide the highest quality cultural, leisure and recreational services in full consultationwith residents and visitors.EnvironmentLead Member, Councillor Spencer FlowerTo protect and improve the quality of the physical environment, ensure that the transportneeds of all sectors of the community are addressed, that people are able to work productivelyand contribute to a sustainable local economy.Health and HousingLead Member, Councillor Queenie ComfortTo safeguard people’s health and welfare, address health inequalities, ensure sustainablewaste management and improve access to housing in both the private and publicsector.PerformanceLead Member, Councillor Alex ClarkeTo secure continuous improvement through development in the quality of working practices,drawing on best experience both within and outside the Council, within a culturewhich embraces critical review and change.ResourcesLead Member, Councillor Derek BurtTo ensure that a sound basis for service provision is delivered by the effective managementof the Council’s human, financial, technological and physical resources.Community SafetyWhat we said we would do:Address people’s fear of crime.What we did:While continuing the very goodwork undertaken with the EastDorset Crime and ReductionPartnership, the Council consulted with Dorset Police andcommunity groups throughout the district regarding theappointment of an Anti Social Behaviour ReductionOfficer. Karen Jaggs was appointed to the post andstarted work in April 2004.What does this mean for residents?For members of the public suffering from behaviourdescribed as causing intimidation, harassment or alarmthe appointment is good news. Karen has already beeninvolved in a number of actions relating to anti socialindividuals: there are three court cases pending in respectof Anti Social Behaviour Orders in Heatherlands, one issought for an individual in Verwood another in Wimborne.Karen works closely with all other enforcement agenciesin the District as well as many voluntary organisationssuch as Youth Clubs and Neighbourhood Watch.RecyclingWhat wesaid wewould do:Increasethe rate ofrecycling andcomposting.What we did:T h eC o u n c i lwidened thekerbside sortand collection of recyclable materials to 96% of houses inthe district and introduced the Brown Bin CompostingScheme to 5000 houses in the Verwood area in March.What does this mean for residents?Residents of East Dorset now enjoy one of the mostadvanced recycling programmes in the country. Theamount of waste sent to landfill sites last year was 500tonnes less than the previous year, significantly reducingthe detrimental effect of harmful gases and toxins on theenvironment.CultureWhat we said wewould do:Address the needsof young people.What we did:F o l l o w i n gconsultation withrelevant organisationsthe Council appointeda Youth DevelopmentOfficer to work withyoung people in theDistrict. Dave Auburnstarted work inSeptember 2003.Improving performance– improving serviceEach year the Council publishes its BestValue Performance Plan and reports onits outcomes. The full plan is filed inlibraries and on the Council website atwww.eastdorset.gov.uk. Below is asnapshot of some of the things theCouncil said it would do in the year 2003-04 and what it means for residents.What does this mean for residents?Dave is constantly out and about in the communityseeking the views of young people as well asrepresenting the views of the Council. He works with avariety of organisations from the Dorset Youth Service toinformal groups of youngsters. Much of his work hasfocussed on the desire by some communities to provideskate park facilities which are being built in West Moors,Verwood, Three Legged Cross and Corfe Mullen.Throughhis work with the Youth Forum ideas are beinginvestigated for a major music event to be staged in EastDorset in the future. Dave also helped encourage youngpeople to participate in Local Democracy Week inOctober which introduced many to the democraticprocess for the first time.Inevitably his work has a knockoneffect with issues such as fear of crime and anti socialbehaviour. Because of this he works closely with the AntiSocial Behaviour Reduction Officer and CommunitySafety Officer.Performance ManagementWhat we said we would do:Prepare for Comprehensive Performance Assessmentin February 2004.What we did:AWorking Party comprising Members and Officerswas set up to address the Council’s areas forimprovement. A dummy run of the inspection (PeerChallenge) was carried out in September by threeexternal professionals who high-lighted the Council’sstrengths and weaknesses. From October until Februarythe Council has built on its strengths and addressed itsweaknesses. When the CPA inspectors arrived inFebruary they were provided with hundreds of pieces ofevidence to show how well the Council works. Theyinterviewed and consulted dozens of Members andOfficers as well as partner organisations with whom theCouncil works.The Council was judged on pre-set criteriato enable the inspectors to compare us with otherCouncils in Dorset. The outcome of the inspectionshowed that East Dorset District Council is a ‘Good’council. (For further information see page 10).What does this mean for residents?East Dorset District Council is an efficiently runcouncil. It has a sound financial base and operatesservices for residents in a cost effective manner. Therelationship between Elected Members and Officers isvery good and the employees are among its leadingassets. The result of the CPA inspection gives the Councilthe confidence to continue to serve the residents of theDistrict to the very best of its ability.TourismWhat we said we woulddo:Expand partnershipworking with North DorsetDistrict Council to promoterural Dorset as a visitordestination.What we did:Produced a full colourguide to Rural Dorset whichwas distributed throughoutthe tourism industry toattract visitors to the area.Started work on animproved website topromote the area.What does this mean for residents?The booklet acts as a guide for both visitors andresidents alike promoting the numerous attractions andfacilities available in rural Dorset. For those working in thetourist industry locally the guide and website will help toincrease turnover and contribute to the economicprosperity of the area. When the website is complete it willreach a much wider audience.PlanningWhat we said we would do:Improve the planning process.What we did:The Council purchased and installed new computersoftware to provide better quality information and on-lineaccess to planning applications.What does this mean for residents?People now have easier access to planningapplications. Residents are able to view and comment onplanning matters from their own home, they are able tomonitor progress, undertake searches and view propertydetails.Planning applications are sent to Parish and TownCouncils so that the public can view them locally andapplications can also be sent to third parties who areunable to visit the Council’s offices.The on-line service isalso useful to businesses who have interests in the districtbut operate from elsewhere.Queen ElizabethLeisure CentreWhat we said we woulddo:Complete the review of theleisure centre.What we did:The Council set up a Customer Panel to ensure thatQELC meets the needs and aspirations of its customers.A new relaxation and coffee area was created inreception, public swimming times were extended, thechanging rooms were refurbished and CCTV installed inthe car park.What does this mean for residents?Residents and visitors who use QELC now havegreater, improved and safer access to the centre. Morecustomers are able to use the facilities and because ofincreased opening times more swimmers are able to takeadvantage of the pool. Feedback from the Panel meansthat facilities and courses are constantly reviewed andadjusted to meet the needs of customers.CommunicationsWhat we said wewould do:Actively promote theCouncil and increaseinformation to the public.What we did:F o l l o w i n gconsultation with anumber of partnerorganisations the CouncilappointedaCommunications Officer.Peter Hyde started workin August 2003.What does this meanfor residents?The Communications Officer is responsible forkeeping residents informed about Council actions anddecisions. He has formalised the way in which the Councilworks with local media and is the first point of contact forall media enquiries. Peter produces two editions of EastDorset News per year (and provided the EDDC pages forthis publication). He also produces the internal staffmagazine (News@4HN) to inform Council employees ofkey issues.Another of his responsibilities is consultation,which will give the Council a greater understanding of theneeds of local communities, leading to more efficientdelivery of services.

12EAST DORSET NEWS SUMMER 2004Financial performance2003/04RevenueBetter return on investments, increased income from Moors ValleyCountry Park and savings on manpower costs all contributed to theCouncil’s net expenditure being £362,000 less than expected.Reserves have been increased by £179,000 and working balancesby £4,400 to meet future liabilities and to increase resources for theCouncil’s capital programme.Original Actual Over/(Under)£000s £000s £000sService Expenditure 9,099 8,924 (175)Interest on Balances (335) (522) (187)Net Council Expenditure 8,764 8,402 (362)Cont. to/(from) Reserves (179) 179 358Less : Business Rate Income (2,928) (2,928) 0Revenue Support Grant (634) (634) 0Collection Fund Contribution (76) (76) 0Council Tax (4,947) (4,947) 0(Increase)/Decrease in Balances 0 (4) (4)CapitalThe Council’s Capital Strategy and Asset Management Plan providethe framework within which the capital programme is developed. Theydemonstrate the link between the capital programme and the Council’scorporate priorities. More details about the capital programme can befound on the websitewww.eastdorset.gov.uk/council/finance/capital_program/default.htm.In 2003/04 the Council spent £2.08 million on capital projects. Themain areas of expenditure were:£000sAssistance to Housing Associations 155Recreation 221Renovation Grants 492Environmental Improvements 14Land Purchases & Property Improvement 220Car Parking 78Community Safety 90Electronic Government 120Highways & Road Safety 227Public Toilets & Sewerage 137Recycling 288Other 38Total 2,080Financial PositionThe Council’s overall financial position remains strong and working balances(the money set aside to cater for unexpected events) have beenmaintained at 8% of the net revenue budget, as required by Councilpolicy.Working balances were £705,600 and in addition to this the Councilhas £3.7 million set aside in other revenue reserves earmarked forspecific purposes.Revenue reserves are maintained to help cushion the council taxpayer from the effects of major items of expenditure in a single year (e.g.funding the cost of the public inquiry for the Local Plan).The Council has capital resources of £4.053 million as at 1 April 2004against a committed capital programme of £4.714 million. Capitalreceipts anticipated in 2004/05 will increase resources by £1.594 millionto £5.647 million, which will be sufficient to fund the existing programme.Council tax benefit - don’t be too proud to claimA national surveyhasrevealed thatfour out of tenpensioners aremissing out onunclaimedCouncil TaxBenefit.Less than halfof home-owningpensioners areclaiming moneythey should get.Some are missing out on a 100% CouncilTax refund and may be due arrears brininga possible cash windfall.Colin Swain, Head of Benefits andRevenues for EDDC, said: “Any pensionerthinking he or she is entitled to benefitshould claim. Don’t be too proud - you areentitled to it.“Claiming is so easy now. We have combinedthe Housing Benefit and CouncilTax Benefit forms to reduce paperworkand now we are cutting the pensioners’claim form by a third.”To make a claim or to find out moredetails call Benefits and Revenues on01202 886201.This brief quiz relates to national figuresbut the proportions are no differentfor East Dorset.(Answers at the foot of the article).1 How many pensioners are missing outon Council Tax Benefit?A 1 in 100B 4 in 100C 1 in 10D 4 in 102 What is the average yearly Council TaxBenefit paid to pensioners?A £1046B £46C £246D £4263 How much Council Tax Benefit isunclaimed by pensioners in the UK?A £750,000B £7,500,000C £75,000,000D £750,000,0004 How many home-owning pensionersare claiming their entitlement to Counciltax Benefit?A Fewer than 500,000B More than 500,000C Nearly all5 How many pensioners are missing outby not claiming Council Tax Benefit?A 500,000B 750,000C 1,000,000D 1,500,000Answers: 1 D, 2 D, 3 D, 4 A, 5 D.

O & utSUMMER 2004 13DORSET NEWSAboutAugust1-31 Active August, New Barn Field Centre, Bradford Peverell,Nr DorchesterVarious hands-on activities. Please checkwww.newbarn.co.uk for further details.2-6 Jousting Shows, Lulworth Castle, LulworthTwice daily jousting shows, Monday to Friday. Daredevilriding, medieval games and lots of thrills and spills. Fireeating,juggling, stilt walking and archery.5 Children’s Activity Day, Corfe Castle, Nr WarehamHands-on activities for children – and castle trail.7-8 Victorian Festival, Nothe Fort, WeymouthRe-enactment groups combine to re-create the Victorianera at the Nothe Fort. Parades, drills cannon andmusketry.7-14 Lyme Regis Regatta & Carnival WeekSeventy different activities including quizzes andcompetitions, children's games, painting, exhibitions,fireworks, outdoor cinema, music and regatta races.16-22 Bridport Carnival WeekEvents during week leading up to carnival include golfcompetition, darts competition, bingo, car boot sale andfair in carnival field. Carnival Procession is on Saturday21 August from 7.00pm and Torchlight Procession is onSunday 22 August from 21.00pm. Also fete on Sunday22 August in carnival field.16-22 The Matchstick Fleet, Nothe Fort, WeymouthAn exhibition of hundreds of models of post WWIIwarships made entirely of matchsticks.18 Gillingham & Shaftesbury Agricultural Show, TurnpikeShowground, Nr ShaftesburyThe traditional agricultural show with over 1,000 animals:horses, cattle and pigs, plus a dog show. Full day'sentertainment in three rings. Trade and craft stands andFarmers' Market.18 Weymouth Carnival. Visit www.weymouthcarnival.co.uk20-22 Enduroman Chesil 2004, Weymouth & Portland SailingAcademy, PortlandThis three-day event comprises swimming, running andcycling at full or half distances. Competitors mayparticipate in single events or the full triathlon. Thecourses are designed to take in Dorset's most beautifulscenery.20-22 Stars Under the Stars, Corfe Castle, Nr WarehamCome and experience the magic of open-air cinema inthe grounds of this majestic ruin.26 Melplash Agricultural Show, West BayThe annual agricultural show.28-30 Big Banana Bonanza, Monkey World, WarehamOn Saturday, Sunday and Monday, each child who bringsa banana will receive a free Monkey World badge.28-30 Craft & Garden Fair, Kingston Lacy, WimborneExhibition, demonstration and sale of traditional andcontemporary crafts, artwork, plants, garden ornamentsand garden furniture.September1-5 The Great Dorset Steam Fair, South Down, Tarrant Hinton,Nr BlandfordWidely recognised as the leading event of its type in theworld, featuring an old-time steam funfair, heavy horsesand other traditional rural working demonstrations. Heldon a mammoth 600 acres showground and regularlyvisited by over 200,000 visitors from both the UK andabroad.Continued overleaf ☛~ Heavy horses, pure breeds,rare buildings and nourishing gardens ~~ Great fun for children indoors and out.Pets corner, pony rides, amazing playground, family yard and playbarn ~~ Peaceful chalk stream, river meadows and sixteen bridges ~~ Collections of bygones, commemorative china and horse-drawn vehicles ~~ Restaurants, tearoom and picnic snacks ~ Demonstrations and ‘hands on’ workshops ~Country Park & Historic Working Farm Museumwww.honeybrook.orgA Wayof Life to CherishKIDSGO FREE ...Country Park & Historic Working Farm MuseumOpen from Open Mid every March 10am day - 10am 4pm (6pm - 6pm in summer)HONEYBROOK, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 4JDHoneybrook is 2 miles from Wimborne on the B3078 Cranborne Road

14DORSET NEWSO &SUMMER 2004ut About☛ Continued from previous page4 Shaftesbury Art Centre Open Day, BellStreet, Shaftesbury4-5 Dorchester Show, Cokers FromeShowgroundTraditional agricultural show with over1,000 livestock on display. Main ringdisplays and over 300 trade stands.7 Day for Less Able Visitors, Kingston Lacy,WimborneA special day for less able andwheelchair visitors to see the main staterooms, outstanding collection ofpaintings and wood carvings. Bookingessential on 01202 883402.10-12 Rock & Pop Festival, WeymouthPavilionJam-packed weekend of fantasticoriginal rock 'n' pop bands.Special feature: An Elvis look- andsound-a-like competition, attractingcompetitors from across the country.10-12 Swanage Folk FestivalA weekend of music, dancing andsinging around the town. The festivalcovers all aspects of folk traditions withopportunities to attend concerts withnational artists. Visit the craft fair, watchdance and procession or sing in a pub.11 Blandford CarnivalAfternoon children's procession fromBlandford School. Evening procession offloat, fun fair.11-12 Archaeology Weekend, Corfe Castle,Nr WarehamThe tenth anniversary of this event withlots of hands-on activities,archaeological displays, living historyand guided tours of the castle.12 Goose Auction, The Gaggle of Geese,Buckland Newton, Nr DorchesterSale of all types of pure bred poultry,including rare breeds of bantams,chickens, ducks, turkeys and geese.(over 500 lots of geese for sale). Allproceeds will go to charity. Also manyother stalls selling country produce,plants, poultry accessories, etc.Barbecue and refreshments available.18-19 Food Glorious Food!, Stapehill Abbey,WimborneA treat for all the gourmets amongst us!A host of stalls offering local produceand epicurean delights. Come and trybefore you buy from a feast ofdelicatessens, confectioners, organicfarmers, poultry and game producers,preservers – to name a few!18-3 Oct Shaftesbury CarnivalAfternoon and evening carnivalprocessions on 2 October. Fortnight ofvarious fund raising events during thetwo weeks.19 Wessex Classic Car Show, Tank Museum,Bovington, Nr Wareham25 Heavy Horse Show & Sale, TurnpikeShowground, Motcombe, Nr ShaftesburyHeavy Horse Show, Sale & Exhibition,with an auction of heavy horses andfoals, wagon, carriages, harness andfittings. Displays of horsemanship,working demonstrations, trade and craftstands, farmers market, hot food, realale bar – and much more.GILLINGHAM & SHAFTESBURYAGRICULTURAL SHOWTHE Show for the Three Counties ofDorset, Somerset & WiltshireTurnpike Showground, Motcombe2 miles north of Shaftesbury on the B3081Wednesday 18th August 8.30am - 6.30pmAttractions will includeGerard Naprous – The Devil’s HorsemenMoto-stunts InternationalJohn Whiteley Sheep DogsThe Yetties Fred WedlockBirds of Prey Team Terrier RacingGun Dogs The Dog Whisperer Dog ShowShow JumpingTrade Stands ◆ Craft Demonsatrations ◆ Food HallFarmers Market ◆ Organic Marquee ◆ Sustainability DisplaysClasses for Horses, Ponies, Cattle, Sheep, Goats, Poultry, Dogs,Homecrafts, Horticulture, Art and much more. . .Admission: Adults £10; Seniors £8; Child £3 Parking FREEAdvance ticket discountsFor all enquiries call 01747 823955✁Four Family Days Outat Monkey World to be won in our £300 CompetitionYour chance tomeet the stars ofTV’s ‘MonkeyBusiness’!What a fantasticprize! We haveteamed up withMonkey World,the internationallyacclaimedApe RescueCentre nearWareham inDorset, to providea full day out forfour families.If you’re one of our luckyprize-winning families(up to two adults andtwo children under 16),you’ll enjoy free entry toMonkey World's 65-acrewoodland park in theheart of the DorsetFor your chance to win this fabulous prize,answer the simple question below:Question: How large is the park?Closing date: August 27th 2004. The winner will be thefirst correct entry drawn. Judge’s decision is final.PLEASE USE BLOCK CAPITALSAnswer..................................................Name....................................................Address............................................................................................................................................Postcode..................Send your entry to: Monkey World Competition, YourDorset, Communications Unit, Dorset County Council,Colliton Park, Dorchester DT1 1XJ.NOWOPENThe South’sLargest AdventurePlay Areacountryside.You’ll also receive £30worth of vouchers tospend in the spaciousTreetops Café, whichserves delicious hot andcold food throughout theday. In addition,vouchers worth £25 willenable you to browse inthe well-stocked GiftShop and choosepresents to take homeplus mementoes of yourspecial day.Open seven days aweek, award-winningMonkey World is arewarding day out for all,combining fun withanimal conservation andeducation. Thesanctuary is home toover 160 rescued andKIDS GO FREEtoMONKEY WORLDAPE RESCUE CENTREWorth £6.00Free admission for one childwith two full-paying adultsValid until 31/10/04 onlywith this voucher.Photocopies will not beaccepted. Not to be usedwith any other offer.PostcodeExcludes Bank Holidaysendangered primatesfrom all over the world –a permanent, stableenvironment where theylive naturally with thecompanionship of theirown kind.The 16 different speciesof primate housed atMonkey World featurethe largest group ofchimps outside Africa,orangutans, lemurs,gibbons, woollymonkeys and manymore – all stars of TV’s‘Monkey Business’!Keeper’s talks every halfhour, an ‘Adopt aPrimate’ scheme, andthe South’s largestadventure play areacontribute to anunforgettable visit.WORTH UP TO £12Nr. Wareham, Dorset BH20 6HH Telephone 01929 462537(1 mile from Wool on the Bere Regis/Wool road)www.monkeyworld.orgKIDS GO FREEtoMONKEY WORLDAPE RESCUE CENTREWorth £6.00Free admission for one childwith two full-paying adultsValid until 31/10/04 onlywith this voucher.Photocopies will not beaccepted. Not to be usedwith any other offer.PostcodeExcludes Bank HolidaysMeet thestars of TV’s‘MonkeyBusiness’✁

THE REGENT CENTREHIGH STREET, CHRISTCHURCH 01202 499148Friday 23 - Sunday 25 July 7.30pm £10.00MONIQUE – Joie de VivreGallic charm & French chansonsSunday 1 August 1.30pm & 4.30pmSOOTY SHOWIzzy Wizzy Holiday Show£7.00 Concs £6.00 Family of 4 £24.00Saturday 7 August 2.00pm FREEat Town Quay BandstandSTOMPING ON THE QUOMPSTaverners Big Band & GuestsSat 4 September 7.30pm £13.50 Concs £12.00BEYOND THE BARRICADEShow hits by former Les Miz principalsSun 5 September 7.30pm £12.00 Concs £11.00Sylvia Syms & Jenny SeagroveMOTHERS & DAUGHTERSThursday 9 September £13.00 Concs £11.50ELVIS COLLECTIONBilly J McGregor in ConcertSat 11 September 7.30pm £12.50 Concs £11.00Karen Noble asDUSTY SPRINGFIELDFri 17 & Sat 18 September 7.30pm £9.00South Wessex Opera3 OPERA GEMSWed 22-Sat 25 Sept 7.30pm £9.50 Concs £9.00Christchurch Gilbert & Sullivan SocietyIOLANTHESun 26 Sept 7.30pm £11.00 Concs £9.00Tony Jacobs – GERSHWIN YEARSWed 29 September - Sat 2 October 7.30pmTheatre 2000 – MASTERCLASSMat Sat 2.30pm Best Play ‘96 about M CallasFREE PARKING AT REAR AFTER 7.00pm www.regentcentre.co.uk Show Information line 01202 479819PRESENT THIS ADVERTTO ADMISSION DESKFOR ONEADMISSIONGET 2NDFREEHIGHCLIFFECASTLEVisit the Castle’s changing art,crafts and historical exhibitions,cliff top grounds, gift shop, tearooms and Highcliffe Village.Exhibitions: Castle opens daily Easter 11am-5pm. – Christmas Grounds 11am – open 5pm daily (4pm from Nov 7am. – Dec)Tearooms Tea open rooms: from mid-morning open from mid-morning every day of the every year (except day of Christmas the year Day).Admission to Castle: Adults (except £1.50 Christmas Children FREE Day) Grounds FREEGuided Castle Tours admission: of unrestored adults parts £1.50, of the Castle children every free. Tues Group and Sat visits at 11am*and coaches (*may welcomed. be unsuitable for Guided people with tours mobility by arrangement.problems)Party booking rates availableLICENSED FOR CIVIL WEDDING CEREMONIESLICENSED– AVAILABLEFORFORCIVILCORPORATEWEDDINGEVENTSCEREMONIES–Highcliffe CastleNr Christchurch on the A337Tel: 01425 278807www.highcliffecastle.co.ukGREAT DORSETSTEAM FAIRSouthdown,Tarrant Hinton,Blandford, Dorset(A354 Blandford/Salisbury road)Wednesday 1st -Sunday 5th SeptemberTake a giant trip of nostalgiainto the days of yesteryear.Held on one of the largestoutdoor showgrounds inEurope – 600 acres.◆ Steam driven funfair◆ 200 full-size workingsteam engines, including60 world-famousshowman’s engines◆ Steam powered heavyhaulage, threshing, sawing,ploughing and roadrolling demonstrationsA fantastic day outfor all the familyAlso featured◆ Can Can dancing girls ◆ Heavy horses ◆ Rural crafts◆ Vintage tractors, cars and motorcycles◆ Stationary engines ◆ Old commercial and army vehicles◆ Trade stands and five entertainment pavilions with livemusic & 100 real ales.It’s not all old time!Take a white knuckle ride on one of the country’s biggestmodern funfairs – 120ft Giant Wheel, Log Flume, RollerCoaster, Drop Tower & Ejection Seat Reverse BungeeTel/Fax: 01258 860361 www.steam-fair.co.ukStapehillMore than just a gardenFORTHCOMING EVENTSSTEAM WEEKEND10th & 11th JulyQUILTING EXHIBITION21-30 August inc.FOOD FESTIVAL18th & 19th September• Beautiful 19th Century Cistercian Abbey• Glorious award winning Walled gardens• Stunning Japanese Garden• Peaceful Chapel, Cloister and Cloister Garden • Unique Craft Studios• Outstanding Countryside Museum• Farmyard • Children’s Play Area • Lakes and Rockery with Waterfalls• Licensed Coffee Shop • Plant Sales • Gift Shop • Special Events all yearOPEN DAILY 10am-5pm Easter - SeptemberWED-SUN 10am-4pm October-EasterSAVE £1.00 per person (Ad/S/C) Max 4Or £2 off FAMILY TICKETValid to 30.09.04 (may not be used in conjunction with any other offer)STAPEHILL ABBEY, CRAFTS & GARDENS276 WIMBORNE ROAD WEST, STAPEHILL, WIMBORNEOff the A31 at Canford Bottom roundabout between Wimborne & FerndownFOR FURTHER INFORMATION TEL: 01202 861686ISLE OF PORTLANDHenry VIII’s Tudor strongholdPortland Castle● Discover 500 years of history● Hands-on displays● A must-visit whatever the weather● Fabulous Harbour views● Special events throughoutthe summerOpen: Apr - Oct, daily from 10am.Closing: Apr - June & Sept 5pm.Jul & Aug 6pm, Oct 4pm.Overlooking Portland Harbour,follow the brown & white signsfrom Weymouth.FREE child per paying adultCONDITIONS:Voucher to be surrendered on entry.valid from 19th July to 31st August 2004.Not valid in connection with any other offerand at evening theatrical events.Copies not accepted. Code: SWDCCEnquiries: 01305 820539Now OPEN! Visit‘The Governor’s Garden’maximum of 2 per voucherOpen daily during the promotional period 10am to 6pmwww.english-heritage.org.uk/portland✃

16DORSET NEWS SUMMER 2004IMPROVING HEALTH AND WELL-BEINGHELPING ELDERLYSTAY AT HOMEDorset is part of aground-breakingnational groupwhich aims to helpmore older peoplelive independentlyin their communities.The Innovation Forumwas set up last year tobring ‘Excellent’ councilslike Dorset CountyCouncil and thegovernment together topioneer new ways oftackling key public serviceissues.The Innovation Forumproposal for Social Careand Health is aimed atimproving quality of life byproviding the right care, inthe right place, at the righttime.A range of newapproaches to care forolder people will bedesigned and piloted bythe ten councils involvedin the forum.Andrew Archibald, theCounty Council’s Head ofCommunity Care for OlderPeople’s Services said:“Part of the work focuseson healthier lifestyles forolder people – and apriority will be to reducethe length of stay ofpeople when they areadmitted to hospital.”The Council’s target isto reduce the length ofstay in acute hospital carefor people over 75 by 20per cent by 2007.Helping older people stay at home: the right care in the right placeBringing services togetherCare for older people with mentalhealth needs is a growing area ofneed, and the County Council isworking with North Dorset PrimaryCare Trust (PCT) to provide moreintegrated specialist day care.The Council and the PCT alreadyprovide day care in their ownsettings for this group of olderpeople. Now, a small amount ofjoint-funded conversion work ontwo Dorset County Councilbuildings will provide suitableaccommodation for health andsocial care staff and services tobe brought together in existingcentres in Dorchester andBlandford. At the AclandRoad Day Centre in Dorchester,the plans will enable a newDementia Care Day Service to berun in partnership with the PCT,alongside existing day care forfrail older people.Ensuring a Sure Start in lifeThe team working to supportchildren in their early yearshas a new name – the DorsetSure Start Unit.Formerly the Early YearsDevelopment and ChildcareUnit, the team is still based atDorchester’s Grove Houseand will continue to supportnew and existing childcareproviders to develop goodqualitychildcare provision.The unit works closely withlocal Sure Start programmesin Weymouth and Portlandand Wool and Bovington, aswell as with partner agenciesand childcare providers.Staff support new andexisting childminders, raisingquality through childmindernetworks, buddy schemes, aswell as supporting nurseriesthat provide full daycare, preschoolsand out-of-schoolprovision.The unit works with a widerange of providers in allsectors, including schools,which are now able to offerchildcare themselves undernew legislation.The team is alsodeveloping a wider brief fromthe national Sure Start Unit todevelop exciting new projectswhich integrate childcare,early years education andfamily support services, suchas Children’s Centres.For more information call thesenumbers:● Dorset Sure Start Unit:(01305) 228444● Wool and Bovington MiniSure Start: (01929) 463220● Bovington, Three BearsNursery: (01929) 405777● Weymouth Sure Start:(01305) 786367How the council is performing for youTargetOutcome70% of items of disability equipment(£1,000 or less) delivered within 7working days.30% of carers receive anassessment of their needs (3 yeartarget).20% of children leaving the caresystem aged 16 or over have 5GCSEs at grades A* - C, while 65%have at least 1 GCSE at grades A* -G (3 year target).Implement the recommendations ofthe independent inquiry set up toinvestigate the death of VictoriaClimbié.The target was met and performance isexpected to improve even further withthe introduction of a new integratedCommunity Equipment Store this April.33.6% of carers received an assessmentof their needs. In national terms, thisrepresents an improvement from ‘poor’performance in the previous year to‘acceptable’ performance in 2003/04.At 10% and 49% respectively, the targetshaven’t been met, but improvements areexpected this year as the children benefitfrom a new programme that providessupport staff and additional tuition.All recommendations have beenimplementedEngland’s MostPicturesque Airfield● Highly Acclaimed Restaurant & Bar● Unique Film & TV Aviation Museum● Falconry Centre● Flight Vouchers for that Special Gift● Airfield Shop● And Much More...A Great Family Place to Visit– All Year RoundCOMPTON ABBAS AIRFIELD, DORSET7 MILES NORTH OF BLANDFORDON THE C13 SHAFTESBURY ROADTel: 01747 811767www.abbasair.comGet YOUR message acrossCouncil publications are THE most powerfuladvertising medium in Dorset and South Wiltshire321,000 copiesdelivered across the regionSouth WiltshireSalisbury District Council magazine Summer 2004In the swimLooking toa new era atFive RiversFarm freshPreparing for thenew farmers’ marketHomesweet homeAffordable housing for allTransport specialEasing your wayinto the cityInspectors rate council ‘good’SALISBURYDistrict Council Published by Salisbury District Council on 100% post consumer waste paperYour Dorset - Dorset County Council -197,000 copies, tabloid formatEast Dorset News - East Dorset District Council -98,000 copies, tabloid formatOpen Line - North Dorset District Council -27,000 copies, tabloid formatSouth Wiltshire Citizen - Salisbury District Council -60,000 copies, A4 magazine formatInterested in advertising? Call(01202) 534487DEEPSOUTH

SUMMER 2004 17DORSET NEWSBEING A WELL-MANAGED COUNCILELECTRIC DEBUTAn electric CitroenBerlingo van is set tobecome Dorset CountyCouncil’s first zeroemissionvehicle.With a range of about 60miles on a single charge, theelectric van will be ideal forcounty council mail delivery inand around Dorchester.The Berlingo, which ischarged from a normal 13Mail delivery unplugged: Sean Adams (right) and caretaker GrahamKenny put the County Council's electric van through its pacesamp socket, costs just over£15,000 but the cost has been alternative to diesel – this cuts keen to lessen the impact ofreduced by almost 35% carbon dioxide by up to 5% our vehicles on thethanks to an energy saver and particulates by up to 28%. environment and we aregrant from the government. Sean Adams, Procurement researching alternativeThe county council has made Officer for vehicles and fuels vehicles, fuels andBiodiesel available as an said: “Councillors are very technologies.”Dorset set to win £8m grant if it improves service to localsDorset is set to benefit by upto £8m if it can meet 13challenging targets to achievebetter services for localpeople by 2006.Dorset’s Local PublicService Agreement has beennegotiated by the countycouncil and its partners in thedistrict and borough councilsand the police – and agreedwith the government.It includes targets foreducation, affordablehousing, reduction of burglaryand youth offending,improved roads and costeffectiveness of the councils.To help us achieve thetargets, the government isgiving us an initial grant of£1.2m as ‘invest to improve’expenditure.Partners aid elderly careA new £10m partnershipproject on land next toWesthaven Hospital,Weymouth is set to bringenormous benefit to olderpeople in the area – and isa good example of howmuch can be achieved byorganisations workingtogether towards sharedgoals.A partnership of DorsetCounty Council, Weymouthand Portland Housing,Weymouth and PortlandBorough Council, SouthWest Dorset Primary CareTrust and The Dorset Trustis developing a scheme fora new 64-bed residentialcare home, plus 54 unitsSPIES, CODES &SECRET AGENTSat the ROYAL SIGNALS MUSEUM, BLANDFORDD-Day and DorsetSpecial ForcesENIGMA - Codes & CodebreakingSpecial Operations ExecutiveDespatch Riders - & Motorcycle collectionAnimals at Warof sheltered housing.The sheltered housing willenable older people to liveindependently with extrasupport, while half of theresidential home beds willoffer rehabilitationfacilities for peopledischarged from hospitalwho are planning to returnto their own homes.The scheme will be able tooffer a wide range ofhealth and social ‘care onthe doorstep’ for allresidents that will helpprevent unnecessaryadmissions to acutehospital care and helpavoid delays in hospitaldischarge.How the council is performing for youTarget OutcomeThe government expectsthe public sector to setthe standard for promptpayment of suppliers bysetting a target of paying100% of undisputedinvoices within 30 daysand by monitoringprogress towards this.To maintain at zero thepercentage of LEAschools subject tospecial measures.In 2002/03 the Councilpaid almost 85% of billswithin 30 days,compared to the averageof 89%. Sampling is nowbeing carried out toconfirm payment speedin 2003/04. Early signsare that there has beensome improvement.Target met. None ofDorset’s schools issubject to specialmeasures.Cholderton Rare Breeds Farmcombines the fun of a theme parkwith a unique extra element – thethrill of interacting with liveanimals during a stimulating day inthe countryside. The Farm Park isjust off the A303 betweenAndover and Amesbury.Opening TimesMarch 20th – October 31st 2004 :Open Daily (10.00am – 6.00pm)Winter: Weekends Only(10.00am – 4.00pm)*Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.Amesbury Road, Cholderton,Salisbury, Wilts SP4 0EW01980 629438www.rabbitworld.co.uk1 child goes free with 1 payingadult on production of this ad*MANYFEATURESESPECIALLYdesignedfor youngervisitorsInteractiveCommunications Science & TechnologyThe Museumalso highlightsthe role ofWomen at WarPrize WinningDiscovery &Fun Trailsfor Toddlers& ChildrenPrizes for AllParticipantsAMUSEUM DESIGNED FOR ALL THE FAMILY AT JUST £13.00Blandford, DorsetOPENING TIMES:Blandford, DorsetMon - Fri ( All Year ) ~ 10am - 5pmDT11 8RHDT11 8RHSat - Sun (Feb 14 - Oct 31)~ 10am - 4pm Tel: 01258 482 248Tel: 01258 482 248TAUNTON FLOWER SHOW(Chelsea of the West)VIVARY PARKAUGUST 4th 11am-9pmAUGUST 5th 10am-6pm- ADMISSION -ADULTS £7 ■ SENIOR CITIZENS £4CHILDREN £1✿Show GardensFloral, Competitive & CraftMarquees Bees and Honey Display✿Band & Bugles of theLight Division✿In the Arena. . .- Punch & Judy - Mini Circus - Somerset Canine Obedience Club- John Whiteley’s Farmyard Rodeo - Trevor Hill Falconry Display- Heaven’s Gate Dog Display - and ITV1 Gardens Monthly RoadshowDetails from Show Office 01823 271597WIMBORNE MINSTER’SKING STREET,WIMBORNE, DORSETTel 01202 881924for further detailswww.wimborne-modeltown.comReg. Charity 298116Open 10am-5pm DailyAdmission: Adult £3 Seniors£2.50 Child £2 (Under 3 FREE)During special events in Augustwe re-open 6.30pm-10pmExperience Wimborne as it was in the 1950s. Set in beautifulaward-winning gardens, the attention to detail will amaze you.ILLUMINATED EVENINGS - August 4, 11, 18 &25; September 1. Spectacular & enchanting.1950s FUNFAIR NIGHTS - August 6, 13. 20, 27.Fun and games for all the family.

18DORSET NEWS SUMMER 2004‘Tread lightlyon the Earth’We had a huge positive response tothe Lifestyle Calculator published inthe Spring Edition of Your Dorset,with more than 650 readers sendingback their own ecological/lifestylefootprints.The basis of the calculator was simple. Allaspects of our daily lives have an impact on theworld – how much depends on things such ashow much fuel, water, food and other resourceswe use.Then you compared your own score againstgeneralised national and international averages.Analysis of the responses showed that theaverage score was 72 (with the lower the scorethe better).This clearly puts Dorset people in with theEuropean average, which is better than the UKaverage. So it does seem that here in Dorset,people are well aware of the need to ‘tread lightlyon the earth’.The main areas where people thought theycould improve their score was energy andrecycling. There was also a clear link betweenwhether people had doorstep recycling (which isprovided by the District and Borough Councils)and what people felt they could improve on.Another area where people felt they could takeaction was on transport.Many people found the simple calculatorbrought home the importance of thinking abouttheir own impact.Ms L from Dorchester said: “This was a greatidea and really made me think about mylifestyle.” Mrs E from nr Cranborne said: ”Alwaysaware of these issues, but even more consciousafter this simple survey.”A number of people returning their ownecological ‘footprint’ calculator said it would beinteresting to know what the council was doing toreduce its impact on the environment andimprove its own score.How the County Council is tryingto reduce its own footprint:● Recycling. All waste paper, cardboard, plasticcups, cans, fluorescent tubes and greenwaste is recycled from the offices at CountyHall.● Over the last 20 years the Council has spent£7.3m improving the energy efficiency of itsschools and other public buildings, saving£21.4m. This has reduced the energy use persquare metre by more than 40%.● Some 50% of the County Council’s buildingsand properties are now running on greenenergy.● All the County Council’s 38,000 street lampsand illuminated traffic signs are nowcontracted to run on green tariff electricity.● The County Council has set up an Internetbasedcar share scheme to encourage staff toshare journeys to work, and reduce car usage.● Over the last 20 years the Council hasreduced the amount of water used in itsbuildings (e.g. schools, libraries, social care &health facilities) by 22%, saving over£900,000.There are also many other areas where theCouncil could improve it’s own performance andis working to identify these and take appropriateaction.Towards Durdle Door: Dorset people care for their environmentHelpful hints for reducing your ‘footprint’TRANSPORT● Why not try car sharing on those regular tripsto work? Get a leaflet from your local libraryor register your journey onwww.carsharedorset.com. Tel: (08700) 111199● Many people were concerned that with familymembers living abroad, they could do littleabout scoring a huge 20 points for usinglong-haul flights.FootprintCalculatorprize drawwinnersThe DVD playerwas won by PeterGraham ofBuckland Newtonwho describeshimself as ‘verygreen minded’ andscored an ‘environmentallyfriendly’51 in the lifestyle calculator.The local food hamper was won by Lt ColJohn Rose, 72, retired from the Royal Corps ofSignals (pictured). Lt Col Rose, fromSherborne said: “I am delighted to have wonthis lovely hamper of local food. I don’t oftenwin things and this has come out of the blue.”There is little doubt that aeroplanes release acocktail of greenhouse gas emissions that are amajor contributor to global warming. However,an organisation called Climate Care may be ananswer.Climate Care funds projects such asreforestation that absorb carbon dioxide fromthe atmosphere. For a small fee (a return flightto The States would be offset for only £9.53)they will plant enough trees to absorb theimpact of your air travel, rendering your flight‘climate neutral’. Log on to www.climatecare.orgor telephone (01865) 777 770.ENERGY● Get energy and grant advice from the EnergyAdvice Centre on (01202) 381037.● Try buying green tariff electricity from yoursupplier. Green electricity may mean payingslightly more for your units (e.g. SWEB 0.4pper unit) but the money will go into a fund tosupport new renewable energy projects and ismatched by the energy supplier.In some other schemes the money is used tobuy energy actually generated by renewablemethods.A good web site to find out more iswww.greenelectricity.org. Why not use acomputer in your local library to look it up?WATER CONSUMPTION● Try saving one litre of water with every flushof your toilet by fitting a ‘HOG’ device to yourcistern. If you are on a meter this could helpyou cut your water bill by up as much as 10%.Wessex Water customers can get one free in a‘Water Conservation Pack’ – 0845 600 4 600.

SUMMER 2004 19DORSET NEWSCalling all young people – Dorset needs you!Would you like to beinvolved in reportingissues which areimportant to youngpeople in Dorset?Then get involved in YourDorset’s young people’spage, which will be featuredin every edition of thenewspaper.If you’re interested in helpingto develop this section ofYour Dorset by and foryoung people cantact GessAird at The Training Centre,Dorchester Youth andCommunity Centre, KingsRoad, Dorchester, DT1 1NJ,call Gess on (01305) 262738,or e-mail tog.aird@dorsetcc.gov.uk.Competition timeWhat should this section looklike and what should we call it?Any ideas?If you would like to put togethersome ideas about a title orlogo/design for the section thenplease forward them to Gesson the details aboveNews updateUK Youth Parliamentto meet this summerDorset Members of the UKYouth Parliament will bemeeting colleagues fromaround the country at theNational Sitting this summer.They have take a surveyfeaturing the views of youngpeople across Dorset -thanks to everyone who tookthe time to complete thesurvey.The results will ensure thatthe views and opinions of theyoung people in Dorset arerepresented nationally. If youwould like a survey tocomplete e-mail Gess at theabove address.Look out for the UKYPinteractive CD-ROM inschools and youth centresgiving lots of informationabout the UK YouthParliament and how to standfor election.County Youth Councilconference successA successful conference washeld in May for young peopleacross Dorset to get togetherand discuss the possibility ofcreating a County YouthCouncil.More than 80 young peopleattended and put forwardtheir ideas. The next stagewill be a residential weekendin late summer to finalise theideas from the conferenceand to create the CountyYouth Council.For more information aboutthis and the residential or tofind out how you can getinvolved, contact Gess.UProjectsLook out for UProjectactivities coming up acrossDorset this summer,including trips to Turkey andSwitzerland, water sportsfrom canoeing to sailing, andkarting and racing onUProject extreme.Underground adventure: one of the UProjects activitiesIf you are 16 and leavingschool with no plans forSeptember then contactMark Grundon on (01305)259102 or email atm.r.grundon@dorsetcc.gov.uk to find out details ofUProject in your area andhow to get involved.Your DorsetDo you have an issue foryoung people that you wouldlike to share with others?Then use Your Dorset.Drop us a line with yourissue and some informationand we can work together toput it in the news. After all,this is for young people, soyour news should be in it!Contact Gess on the detailsabove.For more information about‘Your Dorset for Young People’contact Gess Aird, ParticipationYouth Worker, on (01305)262738, e-mail:g.aird@dorsetcc.gov.uk or visitwww.dorsetcc.gov.ukBUTT