Julia's House receives £5,000 in donations following tree light theft

 

Julia’s House received an astonishing £5,000 in donations following the theft of Christmas lights from outside its children’s hospice in Corfe Mullen.

Thieves stole ground lights from the entrance and took an electrical connection box after slashing through cable, wrecking a display of tree lights.

As the news of the theft spread, donations started coming by hand, over the phone, via the Julia’s House website and through a JustGiving page set up by supporter Steve Mullins on the charity’s Facebook page.

The largest single amount was an anonymous donation of £1,000. Another £100 came in from AFC Bournemouth midfielder Harry Arter who said:  “I know how much Christmas means to kids, so to see someone do such a horrible thing and me being in a position where I felt I could make a difference I thought it would be nice, especially at Christmas.”

 Hospice staff were especially touched by the kindness of passers-by. One man came to the door and handed over £100 in cash – money that had been intended for repairs to his car. He told nurses: “The children need this more than I need to use my car. The car can wait.”

There were many individual donations of household Christmas lights as well as a bulk delivery from B&Q in Weymouth. One lady even pitched up with cakes for the care team.

More lights and equipment were donated by local companies AEC Electrical and Kew Electrical. A team from AEC Electrics replaced the cabling and junction box and put up the new lights in time for a special weekend care session.

Hospice lead nurse Louise McKenna said: “The response has been truly fantastic. The overwhelming kindness of people with all the donations and messages of support has really lifted the spirits of everyone at the hospice. We can’t thank people enough for supporting us in this special way. The new lights look wonderful.”

 

www.juliashouse.org

Review - Robin Hood. Poole, Lighthouse

CBBC’s Ed Petrie takes on the role of Robin, Ed is joined by Tom Bright as Friar Tuck, who also writes and directs the Lighthouse panto for the third year running. Tom is one of the country’s top pantomime directors and is responsible for writing and performing the song for popular 1970s children’s television series Tiswas.  He has appeared on TV in a number of comedy series alongside the likes of Mike Reid and Russ Abbot. The role of the dastardly Sheriff of Nottingham is played by Patrick O’Kane (Game of Thrones, The Borgias, Jamaica Inn) .Back by popular demand are Lighthouse favourites Neil Smye and Dan Looney, whose comic timing and ability to get audiences crying with laughter has become synonymous with the Poole panto.  Local actresses Stephanie Walker and Alicia Woodhouse take on the parts of the Woodland Fairy and Maid Marion respectively. 

Non-stop thrills and spills are the order of the day as Robin takes on his arch-rival the Sheriff of Nottingham and still finds time to catch the eye of the beautiful Maid Marion in this classic tale.

We went to see this panto last night and really enjoyed it, Tom Bright was very funny as Friar Tuck and he got the most giggles from the children but also provided lots of jokes and comedy for the adults. Lots of hissing and booing at the grumpy Sherriff and we loved the fun pairing of Bill and Ben. The show keep us entertained from start to finish with lots of slapstick comedy, audience participation and brilliant dancing, the dancers were exceptional and we found it hard to take our eyes off the little girl who played Jill, such a little star!  Fabulous fun show for all the family.    

This is one panto you won’t want to miss, and we have a competition to win a family ticket!
 http://local.mumsnet.com/Talk/local_dorset/2240685-WIN-Family-ticket-to-Robin-Hood-Panto-Lighthouse-Poole

Review - el RHEY ColourMe Wellies

ColourMe Wellies

 

ColourMe Wellies are fun, fresh and functional customisable wellington boots for kids that are set to redefine rainy days forever!
Made with high quality natural rubber, the designer wellies are available in sizes 11 to 1. The Gift Pack includes a pair of Moth or Zebra ColourMe Wellies, 3 vibrant art markers for your little one to create their original pair of wellington boots and an educational colouring book on African animals and bugs.

We were very excited to receive this lovely colourful gift set through the post. There are two sets to choose from each with a different design, moth and zebra.

 

The set contains the wellies, 3 marker pens and a colouring book, all packaged in a lovely box.

 

 

This set was reviewed by an 8yr old girl, she is very creative and loves to colour and draw and really liked the idea of the colouring book in the box. The pictures on the wellies and the book have lots of detail and although she had hoped there would be more colours to choose from she soon got to work and began to colour in. I think the 3 colours look quite effective.

 

The 5yr old decided to colour in some of the pictures in the book with the pens but the marker pens went through the card so these may be best kept just for the wellies. Both girls were keen to colour in some of the animal pictures.

 

 

 



When both wellies were completed the 8yr old was very proud of her creation and put on the wellies to show everyone. She said she really liked the set and loved the idea that there wouldn't be anyone else with wellies just like these.

 

A lovely and unique gift idea for a creative child.

 

el RHEY is a specialist rainwear designer and wholesaler based in Bournemouth, UK. The el RHEY Kids label represents an original and creative children’s rainwear collection that is available for purchase here.

 

http://www.elrhey.com/

 

 

Shared Carers sought across Poole

Could you help make a difference to disabled children and their families in Poole? Borough of Poole’s Shared Care scheme is actively seeking more local people to get involved with disabled children in their community by providing regular respite care.

Under the Shared Care scheme, families, couples or individuals invite a disabled child into their home and care for them for regular short periods. For parents of a child who is disabled short breaks can be essential, allowing them to catch up with simple tasks like going shopping, spending time with other children, or having an evening out together, knowing they can relax and that their child is with someone they know and trust.

Shared Carers give children with disabilities the chance to make new friends, develop more independence and have new experiences away from home in a secure and familiar environment. There are currently 22 Shared Carers in Poole, but many more families of disabled children are looking for a break. Shared Carers with a spare bedroom are particularly needed, who can offer monthly overnight care at weekends and during school holidays. People who are able to offer regular day care at least twice a month are also needed.

Cllr Janet Walton, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Families and Young People, Borough of Poole, said: “As a carer you are helping another family in need, but your own family can also learn about understanding special needs and make rewarding new friendships. It can be an amazing experience, and one which many of our families really need.”

People from all ages and backgrounds are needed - they can be older or young, in a partnership or single, retired, unemployed or working. They may or may not have children of their own, or their children may have left home. Experience of children with disabilities can help, but it is not essential as full training and ongoing support is provided. Carers are also paid a specialist fostering allowance, but there is no charge to the child’s family. 

Tracey Bulgarelli has been a Shared Carer since September 2009, and provides care for Brecon, a lively 7-year-old boy with a rare genetic disorder similar to autism, as well as severe epilepsy.  Brecon needs to be monitored 24/7 as he has a very high pain threshold, no fear and no sense of danger. Tracey and Brecon have developed a close relationship where Brecon has new experiences in a safe environment, and Brecon's family are able to take the time they need together. 

Tracey said: "Working as a Shared Carer is rewarding and fulfilling, knowing that you are able to give support and respite to a family and enable them to spend some quality time together safe in the knowledge their child will be having fun and being cared for.”

 

Brecon’s mother, Lucy Parr, added: “Brecon is a beautiful boy who unfortunately has many challenges in life. Because of this he needs one-to-one care, and obviously for a family with four children and two full-time occupations this is a very hard balance to strike in ensuring everyone gets the support they need to thrive. When Tracey has Brecon, it gives our whole family some breathing space and time to function as a typical family would. 

“I also know that Brecon is getting the very best care and his various complex needs are being met. He has developed an amazing relationship with Tracey and it’s incredible to see him so happy after spending time with her. From the point of view of families receiving this service, I cannot over-emphasise how vital it is in maintaining ongoing sanity and a slight sense of balance in the otherwise chaotic life that comes with having a disabled child. If you feel you could offer this to a family and their child, please get in touch with the team.”

Amanda Harriskine, Senior Practitioner for Shared Care, Borough of Poole, said: “As we can see from the example of Tracey and Brecon, becoming a Shared Carer can be an immensely rewarding opportunity. We’d encourage anyone interested to get in touch, and see how they can make a real difference to another family in a way that fits in with their own lifestyle.”

For more information about becoming a Shared Carer in Poole please contact the Poole Shared Care Social Workers on 01202 714640 or visit www.boroughofpoole.com/sharedcare  

Review - Carddies, the Card People to Colour and Go

 

Carddies - lots of fun in a small box!

 

We were given the opportunity to review a set of Carddies, the card people to colour and go, and we chose the school set.

 

When the set arrived my 5 and 8yr old daughters were keen to see inside. 

The set contains everything to keep a child occupied and is well thought out, I showed them what the stands were used for and off they went, needing no more input from me.

 

 

 

 Both girls love to colour but I did think this may interest the younger child more, however I was pleasantly surprised to find the set held the attention of both of them for almost two hours!

 

Reluctantly the girls had to pack away as it was time for homework but they were able to put the pieces back in the box with ease.

 

We asked the 8yr old what she thought and she asked for some more for Christmas! We think the sets would make a great stocking filler or something fun to slip in the bag on a long journey.

 

 Carddies are available to buy from their Amazon store at RRP of £8.99.  12 sets to choose from including Carddies London, Sports, School, Fairies, Cavemen, Football, Ballet, Knights, Family One and Two, Farm and Nativity, Carddies suits both girls and boys aged 3 to 10.  

 

SPECIAL CHRISTMAS OFFER (promotional code XMASOFFR) on orders placed before 31 December 2014 (while stocks last):

 

• Save 10% when you purchase 1 Carddies set;
• Save 15% when you purchase 2 or 3 Carddies sets;
• Save 20% when you purchase 4 or more Carddies sets.

 

To receive this discount enter code XMASOFFR  in the “Gift Card and Promotional Codes” box at the checkout when placing your next order from the Carddies own store at Amazon (http://tinyurl.com/no4nhn8 )

(Postage is payable to Amazon under their usual terms and conditions (a minimum total spend of £10 is required for Free Super Saver delivery).

WIN - Family ticket to Robin Hood Panto. Lighthouse, Poole.

Join in with adventure, laughs and surprises this Christmas with Robin Hood and his band of merry men in Lighthouse, Poole’s fun-packed traditional panto from Friday 5 December – Sunday 4 January.

Starring CBBC's Ed Petrie (All Over the Place, Marrying Mum and Dad) as Robin, Patrick O'Kane (Game of Thrones, Jamaica Inn) as the Sheriff of Nottingham and Tom Bright (who also writes and directs) as Friar Tuck.

There are non-stop thrills and spills as Robin takes on the evil Sheriff of Nottingham and still finds time to catch the eye of the fearless Maid Marion in this classic tale for all the family. With a superb cast, sing-a-long tunes, stunning dancing, slapstick, silliness and lots of chances to join in, Robin Hood is the perfect festive entertainment this Christmas.

www.lighthousepoole.co.uk

To be in with a chance of winning a family ticket (admits 4, minimum 1 child) on Saturday 3 January at 3pm, please post the answer to the following question below.

What is the name of the lady that catches Robin Hood's eye?

A. Matilda
B. Marion
C. Miranda

A winner will be chosen at random and announced on 22nd December. Winner will be notified by PM and a response is required within 72 hours. Failure to respond may mean the prize is redrawn.

Click here to enter

Visit Santa and support Julia’s House

Father Christmas will be making a grand entrance in Wimborne on Saturday, November 29^th  to take up residence in the Julia’s House grotto.

He will be arrive in style aboard a horse-drawn dray at noon - ahead of the town’s official Christmas light switch on later that evening – and will be welcoming visitors until 6pm.

The grotto will be open every Saturday in the run-up to Christmas, including 20^th December, from 10.30am to 4.30pm. Every child who visits will receive a gift and every visit will be supporting local life-limited children. It costs £6 to meet Santa with all proceeds going to the Dorset children’s hospice.

There will be festive activities for all the family plus a few surprise guests popping up at the grotto – last year they included Mickey Mouse, a giant polar bear and a pair of adorable Shetland ponies complete with antlers!

“We are so excited to be back in Wimborne this year, just up the road from our hospice,” said Community Fundraising Manager Lin Hudswell. “It is such a wonderful town and everyone has been so welcoming.

“Last year was a huge success with more than 350 children visiting Santa. The Wimborne community were thrilled to have a local charity at the heart of their Christmas celebrations. We hope lots of families will come along and see Santa and join in the festive fun.”

For more information about the Julia’s House Christmas Grotto, please visit juliashouse.org.

Santa returns to the Quay

Santa Will Be Parading In Poole

 

 

Santa will still be parading in Poole this year thanks to Borough of Poole working with the local community and partners.
The busy man will be taking time out from his packed schedule to join in with a host of festive fun on Poole Quay on Sunday 7 December, 4-7pm for a free evening of seasonal treats sponsored by Jenkins Marine Ltd.

His extra special stop is the result of the council, with support from local business and organisations, stepping in following the cancellation of the traditional Dolphin Shopping Centre Santa Parade. As a result the Santa will be joining in with Christmas on the Quay, a community event supported by the Jolly Sailor, Poole Harbour Commissioners and Poole Tourism.

Families will have a free opportunity to see the man himself, as Santa arrives on Poole Quay at 4pm by RNLI Lifeboat decorated with Christmas lights. Santa plus a few special guests including stilt walkers, and his elves, will take to Poole Land Train, parading up and down the Quay before a quayside walkabout to hand out special treats, kindly donated by Sainsbury's Poole. Santa will wave goodbye to the crowds at 5.30pm and leave the Quay, again by the RNLI lifeboat.

Cllr Xena Dion, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Tourism, Borough of Poole, said; “The strength of feeling within the community following the cancellation of the Santa Parade really showed how important the event is to Poole's residents. Christmas on the Quay has been a fantastic event for many years and we are particularly grateful to Jenkins Marine, the Jolly Sailor, Poole Park Land Train and Poole Harbour Commissioners, for allowing us to add this parade to their annual Christmas event. I would also like to commend Poole Tourism and the council's Economic Development and Transportation Teams for working to ensure this event goes ahead this year.”

Poole’s Christmas on the Quay will provide plenty of cheer with children’s rides, stalls, colouring corner and festive music, as well as a chance to write your letter to Santa. Test your strength on the ring the bell machine, win a prize on the tombola or Splat a Santa game. Jamie Jigsaw will help you to sharpen those circus skills in his workshop or create and take home your own balloon character at the free Make & Take.

After Santa departs, Children from Old Town First School will add to the Christmas Spirit with traditional carols by the tree against a background of seasonal snow. Festive food, traditional refreshments, mince pies and roasted chestnuts will be available as the Jolly Sailor, Scaplens Court and Quayside bars and restaurants offer a range of seasonal fare with music and seasonal songs, plus performances from singer Karl Lattimer.

From 6pm Poole’s quayside will light up with a magical Flotilla of Lights as illuminated boats take to the waves to parade alongside Poole Quay, lighting the water with their Christmas light displays with prizes and a trophy awarded to the best dressed boat.
As well as rides and Christmas street entertainers, children will have the chance to write that all important letter to Father Christmas which can be posted in Santa’s special post box in the Welcome Centre.

This year Poole Museum is celebrating the festive season with an atmospheric late night opening of Scaplen’s Court with a Tudor-themed Christmas experience and the chance to enjoy a mince pie, some traditional wassail (mulled cider) in an unique historic setting. As well as carol-singing there will be a range of free activities guaranteed to put the family into the festive spirit. Help to decorate the Yule log, make pomanders and take part in Tudor crafts. All activities are free and materials are provided. There’s no need to book, simply drop in, but the earlier the better as it always a popular event with activities from 3.30pm until 7.30pm.

Rod Jenkins from Jenkins Marine, said: “Christmas on the Quay is a lovely community event with a real sense of the spirit of the season and this year will be even better. The traditional games and activities bring festive family fun that adults remember and kids really enjoy. It is fantastic to see how everyone involved has pulled together. We love being involved with it and hope everyone enjoys it.”

Graham Richardson, Head of Poole Tourism, said: "We are very pleased that Poole's residents will be able to welcome Santa as he arrives at Poole Quay and are grateful to the RNLI for agreeing to use their illuminated lifeboat for the occasion. We are working hard with partners and the council’s Economic Development and Transportation Teams to ensure the event provides fun, family entertainment. Whilst the event cannot be the same scale as the Dolphin Shopping Centre’s Santa Parade, it will still allow children a great opportunity to meet Santa and his elves and we would like to thank everyone for their support."

Poole Quay from Corkers to the Thistle Hotel will be closed to vehicles from 3.30pm and will re-open by 8.30pm. Free parking is available in Poole Town Centre car parks from 10am-6pm.

 

Review - Party entertainer Mr Merlin and Okey Dokey the dragon

Mr Merlin and Okey Dokey the dragon

We first met Mr Merlin and Okey Dokey 11 years ago when he performed his show for our older children. It was a pleasure to introduce him to the younger ones. We went along to one of his shows recently at the Sovereign centre, when we arrived he was setting up and as with all our entertainers we didn't tell him we were reviewing.

There is quite a large difference from entertaining at an organised party to performing in a shopping centre, there didn't seem to be many children around and those that wondered past were ushered away by their parents, busy with their shopping chores.

Mr Merlin began his show and gradually children appeared and adults slowed down to watch. Within just a few minutes quite a crowd had formed and we were impressed at how Mr Merlin engaged the crowd as well as a few older children who pretended they weren't interested!

We enjoyed the range of jokes aimed at both older and younger parents and the children were giggling at the magic tricks. Several children were picked to go on stage and all the children were keen to participate.

The highlight of the show has to be the cute dragon Okey Dokey , my daughter was picked to go on stage and as I have mentioned before, she is very shy and I thought she would refuse. Not only did she go on stage but she spoke into the microphone and kissed Okey Dokey!

A timeless entertainer who appeals to all ages, you can contact Mr Merlin here

£10,000 in memory of Angie

A TRIBUTE fund set up in memory of a much-missed mum struck down by cancer has raised in excess of £10,000 for Forest Holme Hospice Charity. 

 

Angie Simms, a popular district nurse from Corfe Mullen, sadly died aged just 55, following a five year battle with ovarian cancer.
Angie, who has three children and four grandchildren was a keen netball player and enjoyed ‘hashing’ - a form of non-competitive cross-country running with Wessex Hash House Harriers.
She was a much loved wife, mum, ‘nangie’ and friend and was known for her wicked sense of humour, beautiful smile and love of adventure.
Angie’s daughter Emma said, “She never let the cancer get her down and even went on eight mile ‘hash’ runs following an afternoon of chemotherapy. She was an inspiration to us all.”
Angie’s niece Hayley added; “Angie was still nursing and treating patients herself whilst suffering from cancer, she was a real life superwoman.”
Following Angie’s death on 24 February 2014, Angie’s friends and family have been busy organising an array of fundraising events in support of Forest Holme Hospice, which cared for Angie during her final days. The most recent event organised by Angie’s husband, Martin, was a 100km social bike ride over the Jurassic Coast known as a ‘Bash’.
Martin said; “Her family, friends and fellow hashers followed a trail that had been laid by volunteers, cycling up and down hills through the picturesque Dorset countryside.
I’d like to say a big thank you to all those who faced the challenge, and had fun, whilst raising money for such a worthy cause.”
To date, Angie’s friends and family have raised a total of £10,754 in her name. To donate in memory of Angie please visit; www.justgiving.com/angiesimms

Review - Copocabana at Bournemouth Pavilion

 

Review of Copocabana opening night.

The first night of the show Copocabana- a colourful production full of song and dance although the storyline could have been better. Jon Lee is a good lead with a great voice and Richard Grieve is great as nightclub owner Sam Silver but the show does lack stage design, scenery change and definitely a lack of “well known” Barry Manilow songs. The song Copocabana is not sung until the finale.

The lack of stage design, backdrops and the constant moving around of two sets of steps spoils what could be an exciting show. The choreography, singing and costumes were good but overall the show lacks just a little something. Nice show but not an exciting show.

Show reviewed by Mumsnet Local Ambassador Sharon

Copocabana is at  the Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre 27 October 2014 – 1 November 2014

 

Buy tickets

 

 

October half-term - 50% off all off-peak day returns on Southwest trains!

 

We have a great deal for you from Southwest trains, it's a great time to go off for an adventure with the family.

 

This October half-term enjoy 50% off standard off-peak day return tickets every day from Saturday 25 to Friday 31 October 2014.
The best news is you can travel ANYWHERE across the South West Trains network! So book your ticket online today and start exploring! You can also book your tickets at ticket offices or by calling 0345 6000 650.

Remember you must book your ticket a minimum of 24 hours before you travel to receive the discounted fare!

Jamie Jambo - Party entertainer review

Jamie Jambo - Bournemouth party entertainer

We attended a party this weekend where Jamie Jambo was the entertainer. My daughter has seen him before so didn't seem anxious about sitting down to watch him. She is five and finds parties quite stressful as she is very shy. On this occasion she really enjoyed the show, Jamie is fresh and energetic and had the children giggling away.

Some of the children were asked to help out in the show and they all joined in with the fun, Jamie juggled, the children were plate spinning and the birthday girl had a special part to play. We were particularly impressed with the special guest at the show!

We noticed that all of the children were engrossed, including the shy ones and the parents were able to sit back and enjoy a hot drink and enjoy the show too.

We will look forward to seeing Jamie again.

You can find out more about Jamie Jambo here http://www.jamiejambo.co.uk/

NB: Jamie was unaware we were reviewing

Join The Gruffalo’s Child trail at Moors valley

 

Families are invited into the deep dark wood this autumn and winter to find The Gruffalo’s Child, who has followed The Gruffalo out of his comfortable cave for a trail adventure at Moors Valley.

From 3 October 2014 until 22 February 2015, self-led Gruffalo’s Child activity trails will be in place at Moors Valley near Ringwood, and 23 other Forestry Commission forests across England, continuing the nationwide celebrations of the 10^th anniversary of the book’s publication.

While following the trail route, families can take part in activities based on their favourite book’s characters.  The trail will lead them through the forest using activity boards to help them discover nature and woods at a time of the year when forests are at their most beautiful and the animals are preparing for winter.

In addition, there will be activity packs available for £2, which will include a foraging bag, a fun-packed activity leaflet, a colouring-in sheet and a special Gruffalo's Child sticker. These special packs will encourage children to learn more about the behaviour of animals in autumn and how they search for food, create shelters and prepare for the cold winter months.

For more information go to www.moors-valley.co.uk or call the Rangers on 01425 470721.

  

Sell-out ball raises a record-breaking £40,000 for Julia’s House

 

 

 

The Julia’s House annual Butterfly Ball has raised more than £40,000 for the children’s hospice charity.

The sell-out event, held at Canford School, was attended by 160 guests including two of the charity’s patrons, actor Martin Clunes and actress and impressionist Debra Stephenson, who both pitched in to make the evening a success.

Martin Clunes conducted the charity auction which  including two lots he had donated - a walk-on part in the next series of Doc Martin and one of the suits his character wore in the hit TV show. They turned out to be the star lots, attracting combined bids to the tune of £2,250.

Debra Stephenson brought the house down when she rounded off the evening by singing the opera classic Oh Mio Babbino Caro, receiving a standing ovation.

As well as a three-course dinner and charity auction, there was also live music, entertainment and dancing.

The charity’s corporate and events manager, Linda Schofield-Green, said she was thrilled by the amount raised, which was £8,000 up on the previous year and a record for a Julia’s House ball.

“It was such an amazing night. We had patrons, trustees, supporters, parents, staff and volunteers all playing their part and contributing to a wonderful family atmosphere. Martin and Debra were just superb. We are so grateful to them and to everyone for making the ball such an outstanding success.

“I cannot imagine how we are ever going to top that next year!” 

 

New squirrels go into hiding on Brownsea

This autumn, visitors to Brownsea Island will be taking part in an unusual squirrel quest. One toy squirrel will be hidden each day during half term, and the lucky person who finds one can take it home. 

 

There are also real red squirrel walks, taking place daily from Monday 29 September to Friday 24 October at 11.30am and 2pm, as well as special walks for children every day during half term. 

 

“We wanted to continue the adventure that was started last year and carry on the fun,” said Claire Dixon, Visitor Services and Enterprises Manager on Brownsea Island.

 

“Our squirrels are always particularly active at this time of year and more easily spotted. We thought it might be fun to let a few toys ones be equally active and make a break for freedom across the island.”

 

The island’s red squirrels are one of the few colonies left in England – the isolation on the island having protected them from the squirrel pox brought by their grey cousins, which have removed the red squirrels from most of the rest of England.

 

The National Trust is working to ensure the squirrel’s long term survival, including removing wild rhododendron to allow the natural re-growth of heath and pine trees – ensuring there will be a food supply into the future. Thinning some of the pine trees allows them to grow more pine cones containing the nuts the squirrels eat – as well as giving room for the trees to naturally regenerate.

 

Chris Thain, Dorset Wildlife Trust’s Reserve Manager on Brownsea Island said, “One of the most magical things about Brownsea Island is that visitors can get up close to wildlife all year round. As summer turns to autumn we’ve seen an increase in the amount of squirrels foraging for food, so this is the perfect time to visit the island for a wildlife experience you won’t forget.”    

 

At 500 acres, the island is large enough to sustain a thriving population of red squirrels, and unusual in not having any natural predators – encouraging them down to the ground to feed where they can be more easily seen. It’s estimated by conservationists that the island population is doing so well that it is currently at about the maximum the island can sustain.

 

“This is a good time to see them when they are busy gathering food for winter which is why we have our squirrel walks on the island. You are almost guaranteed to see one of them at this time of year when they are active and busy collecting food for the winter,” continued Claire Dixon.

Make Homework Heavenly With Poole Libraries New Homework Club

Poole Libraries are pleased to announce that a free homework club for children has started in all Poole libraries.

Run after school during term time, the clubs are open to all children but specifically those aged 8-14 years old. They offer a safe and friendly environment to work in with help on hand from library staff to access books and find information. There is free use of computers with internet access, as well as free photocopies and print-outs, and online resources linked directly from Borough of Poole website.

Storyteller John Kirk helped launch the homework clubs with a fun workshop at Hamworthy Library. Children from Twin Sails Junior School and Carter Community College took part in an interactive espionage-based story session which involved using library resources to progress the narrative. They all played detective and honed their research skills in an effort to root out ‘the mole’ and rescue BH17 from a crime-wave! Library staff used their vast experience as ‘information detectives’ to help them solve the necessary clues.

Cllr Xena Dion, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for a Prosperous and Sustainable Poole, Borough of Poole, said: "This is a great way for children to make new friends and get their homework finished in a friendly environment. I'd also like to encourage adults who can spare a few hours a week to volunteer and help make a positive impact on children's lives."

So if your child is struggling with spellings, hating history or just muddling along in maths, please encourage them pop in and see us. Sessions are free and there’s no need to book, just check with your local branch for days and times.

For more information about clubs in your local library, speak to a member of staff or visit www.boroughofpoole.com/libraries

Great Wessex Dinner 2014

Dogs’ dinner will help children’s hospices

Smallholder Janey White will have her ‘hounds full’ when she hosts a party as part of the Great Wessex Dinner on Saturday, 4^th October. For not only will she be feeding 25 guests, she’ll be dishing out din-dins to their dogs, too.

Janey, from Holt near Wimborne, will be serving up one of her home-reared lambs to friends, with the ‘leftover sheep bits’ being braised in jelly with chopped up Boneo biscuits for the pets. “A sort of posh Pedigree Chum,” laughs Janey.

The dogs, which include a black Labrador, a hound, a dachshund, a King Charles spaniel and an assortment of terriers, will feast on this confit of lamb along with a mackerel pate starter and a carrot cake with a bone marrow cream for pud.

The pampered pooches can expect silver service and bone-shaped napkins. “I love cooking and this is just an extra bit of fun, plus it means we won’t we wasting any food.”

As well as enjoying entertaining, Janey has a more poignant reason for wanting to support her local children’s hospice. “I lost a son 14 years ago. He was born and died in October, just before his second birthday. When I saw the date of the Great Wessex Dinner it just felt like the right thing to do, in memory of him and to help other families.

“And I know how much children love animals, how much they would love the idea of a dogs’ dinner.”

Janey is among 200 people from Dorset and the surrounding counties hosting a dinner on the same night to raise money for children’s hospices, Julia’s House in Dorset and Naomi House and Jacksplace in Hampshire.

Other notable hosts include Charlotte Townshend of Melbury House and the Earl of Shaftesbury. Dinners of all shapes and sizes are being planned from grand affairs in stately homes to simple fireside suppers.

Everyone is welcome to host a meal in return for a donation from their guests - £50 per head is the suggested amount. To register your dinner please call Di Pestell on 01202 644220 or email diane.pestell@juliashouse.org.

 

 

Nana's knickers - Children's book review

It's time for bed and time for the bedtime story, we find it very difficult to find a story that appeals to both of our youngest girls who are 5 and 8 years old. The 8yr old will often complain that the book her sister has chosen is too childish while the 5yr old gets bored without pictures to look at.

 

This amusing story is all about Nana and her family trying to find her missing knickers!

 

 

 

When the new book Nana's knickers arrived both girls were keen to listen and were giggling as I read the title. I think most children find words considered 'naughty' amusing, and the title engaged them instantly.

 

The book is a good size and large enough for several children to look at together and the pictures are large and colourful. The children enjoyed having just a small amount of text on each page and were keen to see what happened next. Both girls laughed when Nana shouted "I can't find my knickers" and really enjoyed the ending where they were found.

We think this book would appeal to primary children of all ages and one I would choose over others to read to a group of children due to it's large engaging pictures and amusing story.

-
written by Nico Russell and illustrated by Charlie Meyer

You can find out more about the book here



 

 



Annie Get Your Gun review

Annie get your gun brings the wild west to Bournemouth. This Irvin Berlin's classical musical comedy has bundles of energy and a sweet story.

Buffalo Bill's Wild West show comes to town and country girl Annie Oakley falls for Frank Butler.  Both competitive characters, they fight to win the best shot and each other's hearts.

Emma Williams brings an outstanding voice to the part of Annie Oakley and Jonathon Wilkes is charming as Frank Butler.  Lovely to see Norman Pace as Buffalo bill and Ed Currie amusing the audience with his comic timing as chief sitting bull.

Great show tunes 'There's no business like show business' and 'Anything you can do i can do better' bring Broadway to Bournemouth and the performances of the cast make this musical the heartwarming show that it is.

Bournemouth Pavilion  19 – 23 August 2014

Ticket Prices

£25.80 – £37.63

The Clay Studio

 

 

 

 

Last week we were invited to visit The Clay Studio and ceramic café in Christchurch.  The Clay Studio is situated on the corner of the Fountain roundabout and has it's own dedicated parking bays.

We were surprised by how much space they have, downstairs is a dedicated room used for children's parties where they are able to supply their own food. They also hold  mother and baby days and are very accommodating of parents with pushchairs. There is a baby change area and they are happy for mums to breastfeed their baby.

The girls painted a mug each and were able to choose their own colours and make a design of their choice and it was a welcome change in pace from the busy theme parks and endless car journeys. There are lots of items to choose from and we were impressed to watch a family paint in silence, mum dad and little girl were all quietly painting their own pieces and engrossed in their own work.

The Clay Studio offers much more then you realise, popular as a venue for a hen party yet somewhere relaxing to sit with a coffee and watch the world go by. You don't have to paint, it's a café in it's own right offering a range of food and drinks and seating both inside and out.

Something I wish I had done with my own babies is the first impressions clay imprints, the child's hand and footprints placed onto clay for a keepsake. This is a also a great place to make your own unique gift or holiday souvenir. Take a look at the website to see what else they do.

 

 

 

Here are the finished mugs after being glazed.

 

See what else you can paint at The Clay Studio

 

The Clay Studio

The Fountain

1 High Street

Christchurch

Dorset BH23 1AE

 

Tel: 01202 475000

.

Review - Cats the musical

 Cats at the Bournemouth Pavilion

So, as a cat lover myself and also a fan of Andrew Lloyd Webber's other musicals, this show was much anticipated. 

The story tells of one special night when the Jellicle cats meet at the Jellicle Ball, where their leader Old Deuteronomy decides which of the cats will be reborn into a new Jellicle life. The storyline feels like it lacks something and I felt it difficult to remain engaged with it.

Brilliant staging and highly impressive performances from the cast are what this show is all about, the musical numbers - with Memory getting a special mention - really showcase Andrew Lloyd Webber and the talent of the performers.

The cats danced in the aisles involving the audience and Old Deuteronomy stayed on stage in the interval to sign autographs.

A great high energy show with spectacular set designs, stunning costumes and breathtaking choreography, CATS is a magical musical like no other.


Cats is at Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre from Monday 11 – Saturday 16 August 2014.

Book Review: 101 things for kids to do outside

It's the summer holidays and like many other parents we are trying to come up with interesting activities to keep the children entertained. My children would spend all day staring at a computer screen if i didn't come up with other ideas, so this book couldn't have come through the post at a better time.

The five year old got her hands on the book first and was instantly excited by the ideas in the large photos and pointed out a few straight away that she would like to try. There are activities in the book to suit any time of the year or weather, so once i had convinced her that that a Halloween feast could wait a few months, she chose to make flower fairies.

We decided to make the fairies in our garden, meanwhile my other daughter who was engrossed in Club Penguin at the time, got off the computer to investigate what was going on. Result! She is almost eight and when i told her what we had planned she looked a bit bemused but soon got stuck in.

The girls spent ages gathering bits and pieces they could use and kept going back and looking at the ideas in the photos. We did have strawberries growing a few weeks ago but sadly they have all been used up so we picked a small apple from the tree and used a fir cone that one of the girls had found previously. Once we had the main body it was easy to find the other little bits to add on. They kept it simple and were very pleased with the results.

What really surprised me, was how this activity led to another and the girls wanted to continue the game and make a house and garden for the fairies. We ended up in the garden for almost two hours and i am not sure which one of us had the most fun!

Here are the results from the 'Make flower fairies activity'

Dawn Isaac, award-winning garden designer, blogger and mum to three young children, comes 101 Things for Kids To Do Outside, packed with games, projects, crafts, experiments and gardening inspiration to get your children to put down their game console controllers and race outside to try something new.

As a grown up looking back, it’s the long school summer holidays spent outside all day playing games, running through the crunchy - cold woods looking for conkers in autumn, picking the first buttercups of spring and building snowmen in icy winter that we remember much more fondly than the time spent in front of the TV or PC. With children aged 8 – 18 spending on average 7.5 hours in front of a screen each day (Kaiser Family Foundation), and childhood obesity on the rise, it is more important than ever to get children outside to explore, climb, run and laugh, whilst they are still children.

Dawn has put together a brilliant compendium of ideas for kids (and adults!), covering all four seasons and ranging from quick 10-minute activities to a full day of fun. From party games and treasure hunts to simple gardening projects, each project is simple to follow and illustrated with colour photography. Encourage your kids to sweep for bugs, plant an alpine colander, fly a home-made kite, make a mud pie kitchen, build a snow lantern, hold a mini Olympics or take the matchbox challenge alongside loads of other great ideas.

The best thing is, you don’t even have to have a garden to use this book to its full potential - a local park or small grassy area will work just as well. This hands-on guide will help children make the most of being outdoors, stimulate their imaginations and provide hours of entertainment for the entire family.

Dawn Isaac spends much of her time coming up with new ways to persuade her kids to go outside, a mission which is chronicled in her popular blog www.littlegreenfingers.com. It is also the featured blog on the RHS family website. Dawn writes on garden design for the Guardian, The Telegraph and The Garden, and is currently running Family Garden Design courses in association with Mumsnet Academy. She is also the horticultural advisor for the award-winning CBeebies show Mr Bloom’s Nursery.

101 things for kids to do outside

Dawn Isaac

Published by Kyle Books on 27^th March 2014, priced £14.99
http://www.dawn-isaac.com/buy-the-book/

AFC Bournemouth help Julia’s House reach its lottery goal

AFC Bournemouth players took time out from training to show their support for Julia’s House by helping to promote its newly-relaunched lottery.

Captain Tommy Elphick and two new sign-ups, Callum Wilson and Junior Stanislas, were among those who entered into the spirit of the occasion at a photo shoot at Dean Court.

The squad are helping to highlight the importance of the lottery as a regular source of income for the charity. The lottery membership currently stands at 6,000, with the hope of reaching 8,000 by Christmas.

“Hitting this target will mean we can reach even more families struggling to cope with a life-limited child,” explained Lottery Co-ordinator Lyndsay Smith. “It costs just £1 a week to sign up making it a very affordable and easy way to support your local children’s hospice,”

“Because we rely on donations for 92 per cent of our fundraising, having a regular income is hugely important as it enables us to plan for the future. We are thrilled that AFC Bournemouth have agreed to support us in this way.”

Players posed with giant lottery balls and took away lottery sign-up leaflets.

Captain Tommy said: “We are proud to be able to support Julia’s House. We think it’s a great charity and it’s a privilege to be able to do our bit. Our goal is to help Julia’s House reach its goal – and get lots of people signing up for the lottery.”

AFC Bournemouth are regular supporters of Julia’s House. Most recently a couple of the players visited the hospice in Corfe Mullen for an impromptu kick around, much to the delight of children and carers.

The Julia’s House lottery has a weekly top prize of £1,000. To join visit juliashouse.org.

Support the Mumsnet campaign for better miscarriage care

 

Half of women who miscarry wait 24 hours or more for a scan,

and are treated alongside women with healthy pregnancies

Mumsnet calls for manifesto commitment on better miscarriage care

Mumsnet, the UK’s biggest website for parents, is today publishing the results of a survey into patients’ care and experiences following miscarriage. Around a quarter of a million women miscarry in the UK each year1 – about one in five pregnancies ends in miscarriage – but the statistics published today show that the treatment and support women receive fails to meet their needs or measure up to official national guidelines.

A survey of over one thousand women2 shows:

• Half (46%) had to wait over 24 hours for a scan to determine if their baby was still alive, with one in five (18%) waiting longer than three days

“When I asked how much longer it would be, I was told I was taking up their time.” A Mumsnet user

• Half (47%) were treated alongside women with ongoing pregnancies

“I sat with other ladies who were still pregnant and waiting for scans… seeing their happy faces tore me apart.” A Mumsnet user

• A third (31%) of those who miscarried at home following a scan were not offered any pain relief, or adequate pain relief

“I was under the impression that miscarrying at home was the easy option. It certainly is not easy. I have been in agony.” A Mumsnet user

• 58% of respondents wanted counselling, but only 12% were offered it

“I had to wait six months to get counselling and lost six months of my life as I was not   coping with the loss.” A Mumsnet user

• 56% of respondents wanted further medical care but only 26% were offered it

“The hospital said they’d ask a health visitor to contact me. That was two months ago;    nobody has been in touch.” A Mumsnet user

• Only a quarter (23%) spoke of their experience to friends, and only 13% told wider family

“When I felt ready to talk, I didn’t have anyone ready to listen.”  A Mumsnet user

In 2012, NICE guidance on the management of miscarriage stated that miscarrying at home (known as ‘expectant management’) would be the default clinical response for women undergoing miscarriage before the 13th week of pregnancy, but today’s results show this policy is leaving women without the support they need.

• Only 15% of women who miscarried at home following a scan felt they had the right support, information and pain relief to manage

“I was told, over the phone, to ‘just sit on the toilet and hopefully it will all come out’.”

• 11 people were asked to store their foetus at home prior to further tests on the embryo

“[I don’t want to] catch my miscarried embryo in a urine sample pot at home, keep it in the fridge overnight if necessary, then take it on the train (two hours) for genetic testing.”

Mumsnet users have developed a five-point Miscarriage Code of Care, which calls for straightforward improvements in the treatment parents receive:

1. Supportive staff

2. Access to scanning

3. Safe and appropriate places for treatment

4. Good information and effective treatment

5.   Joined-up care

Many of the Code’s points are included in best-practice guidance from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Department of Health, but the research shows that, too often, this guidance is not being implemented.

Mumsnet is now asking the Secretary of State for Health, the shadow Health Minister and the junior Health Minister to commit to improving miscarriage care during the lifetime of the next parliament.

Justine Roberts, Mumsnet Founder, said:

“There’s no escaping the pain of a miscarriage, but for this to be compounded by lack of treatment, pain relief, good care or just plain human kindness is completely unacceptable. We are calling on the three main parties to include a pledge in their manifestos to improve miscarriage care, based on the principles in our code.”

Cathy Warwick, Chief Executive of the Royal College of Midwives, said:

“The Royal College of Midwives welcomes and supports the Mumsnet code of care which aims to improve care for women at a very difficult time. Midwives and other health professionals have an important role to play in supporting women and families through the physical and psychological impact of miscarriage. Kind, compassionate and empathetic communication around care and treatment is an essential step to support families. It is particularly important that there is effective communication between the hospital, GP and midwife to provide ongoing support or advice, as needed.”

Jane Brewin, Chief Executive of Tommy’s, said:

“Losing a baby is a devastating experience and our helpline hears from people every day who are struggling to make sense of what has happened to them and why. More research is needed to help us understand the causes of miscarriage so we can develop treatments that help save babies’ lives. We want families to know that they are not alone and that Tommy’s helpline is here to support anyone who has been through this heartbreak.”

Susan Seenan, Chief Executive of the national charity Infertility Network UK, said:

"Miscarriage is an extremely distressing, and often frightening experience and sadly even health professionals can underestimate the impact which a miscarriage can have.  Good support and access to counselling from sensitive trained staff who understand the emotional as well as the physical effect of miscarriage on both women and their partners can make an enormous difference to those dealing with the grief of losing a baby.  We hope that this campaign will lead to better care and support for everyone affected by what can be a hugely traumatic experience.”

 

More information on the Campaign
You can find more information on the Mumsnet Site

How to get involved
Please ask the three politicians who can make this happen – Jeremy Hunt (@Jeremy_Hunt, Andy Burnham (@andyburnhammp) and Norman Lamb (@normanlamb) – for their support.
If you don’t use twitter, please send an email to the politicians who can make this happen:

• Secretary of State for Health Jeremy Hunt – mb-sofs@dh.gsi.gov.uk
• Labour Shadow Health Spokesman Andy Burnham  – andy.burnham.mp@parliament.uk
• LibDem Health Minister Norman Lamb – mscs@dh.gsi.gov.uk

We need to ask them to include a promise in their next manifesto to make miscarriage care better. Accounts of personal experiences are particularly effective for explaining why we need their support.
Share this on your Facebook page, and tweet about the campaign with hashtag #miscarriagecare
†Source, Miscarriage Association
‡ 1065 women who had miscarried since September 2011 completed the survey between 24 April – 15 May 2014