| September 2 |
News - The whole area ground to a halt following a serious accident on the
A35 at about 5:05pm.
It happened near the Toby Carvery, and the road had to be closed for some
hours, with diversions through Highcliffe causing massive delays. Lymington
Road, Hoburne Lane, and other roads had very long and slow moving queues.
It is believed that there was at least one fatality in the collision.
There are four (at least four) properties now on the market in or near
the village centre, all of which are currently guest houses/B&Bs.
This has obviously been caused by the upcoming opening of the Travel Lodge
behind The Globe public house.
It is believed (rightly, if other such new motel openings are anything to go by) that Whitbreads will be offering rooms at giveaway prices, maybe even at a loss, to take trade from Highcliffe's traditional accommodation providers.
I make that about 100 rooms being removed from the market (so far) to be replaced by 60 at the motel.
At the time planning was submitted, I for one was bemused by the lack of
objectors to the idea of putting a 60+ bed hotel in the middle of a small
village centre, with the only access via an already extremely busy road.
In fact, the Business and Residents Associations both actively supported
the plans, presumably believing that the village would see extra footfall,
and therefore more trade.
This made no sense to some of us at the time, and even less sense now that
we can expect to lose several long established local businesses, run by
local Highcliffe people, to be replaced by a faceless chain with absolutely
no interest in Highcliffe at all.
I reported at the time that many people did not believe that the sort of business generated by a Travel Lodge and the like is the same as that generated by excellent B&Bs.
Very few people stay in a motel for their holidays. It is not what they are designed for.
People in B&Bs however, are often regular visitors, holiday makers,
who stay, use support local businesses.
I would love to be proved incorrect, but I will be extremely surprised
if this monstrosity increases trade for anyone except The Globe. The figures
just don't add up. So far, over 100 bedrooms (mostly full at this time
of the year) will be going, to be replaced by 60 rooms that probably do
not attract Highcliffe's traditional visitors.
Elvis is alive and at The Cliffhanger tonight. I believe there are only
a couple of places left.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
|
| August 31 |
News - Trefoil Way was completely closed this morning at around 8:00am, when
the Fire Brigade had to be called to a house in the road.
Apparently a household appliance caught fire. (From the remains it looked
like a carpet cleaner or similar.)
The fire was dealt with quickly, and the road reopened at about 8:35am.
Good to report that noone was in the incident.
Changes -
|
| August 28 |
News - Here's some info for you.
There's a telephone scam doing the rounds at the moment, especially tarketing
the vulnerable and elderly.
The caller says he is a BT rep and demands immediate payment due to an unpaid bill, andrequests are made for payment details over the phone. When challenged, the caller pretends to cut the line, very convincing but this is a scam.
If you do not attempt to use your phone for approx 10 mins, the caller
mimics the line being cut for a few minutes, then apparently calls back
in order to persuade you that it is a genuine call.
ALSO be wary of any company claiming to fit security alarm systems for
£1. This is a genuine fitting cost, but the catch is that the maintenance
costs you sign up for are extremely high.
Changes -
Accommodation page changed (Ann & Roger's B&B has new phone number).
|
| August 24 |
News - The plan to change the empty BLOOMS florist shop in Ringwood Road into what is described as a cafe, seems
to have the big majority of local residents up in arms.
I'm told the little parade of shops already attracts late night noise,
litter, and vandalism, as it seems to attract many youngsters who use it
as a night time meeting place.
The change of use plan includes late night opening (until 11:00pm) for
takeaways. It has been pointed out strongly that this is not simply a cream
tea and lunch type of establishment. It is planned to stay open late, probably
serving the kind of instant "food" that youngsters seem to be
unable to live without.
I have to say that it does sound like the kind of kebab establishment that
we had in Lymington Road, now thankfully long gone, which caused all kinds
of grief for local residents and the authorities.
If that is the case, then I'm not surprised that the Council has already
received many letters of objection (and as far as I could find, none in
support). It would be more surprising if they don't receive a lot more
before this matter is closed.
The major 3 vehicle collision in Lymington Road a week ago, which resulted in a lengthy road closure, has reminded locals that they are still waiting for the long promised extension of the 30 mph speed limit. It must be a year or so since it was announced the limit was to be extended down to the Hoburne Roundabout, since when it has gone remarkably silent.
I would guess that the Lymington Road Action Group are on the case, so
hopefully we will recive a progress report soon.
A request has been received from a visitor to the website from outside of the area, who's grandfather has a dairy in Lymington Road back in the 1930s and 40s.
It is believed that the dairy was on the Southern side of the street, and that the milk was dellivered by horse and cart.
The gentleman's name was Thomas Evans, he was married, and had 3 children
(a boy named Tudor, and 2 girls named Jenny and Doreen. (It is not known
if they were born at the time the dairy was operating, or later).
Please get in touch if you have any information that might relate to this.
(We have a good track record with this kind of request, so it would be
great if we could help.)
Changes -
|
| August 19 |
News - A short time ago, Avon Beach at Mudeford won an award.
Suncare experts, NIVEA SUN launched a new campaign with the Royal Lifesaving Society UK, to find Britain’s Best Family Beaches. NIVEA SUN asked 1500 parents what criteria they look for when choosing a family-friendly beach and based on these criteria, NIVEA SUN and the RLSS UK put together the top 15 family beaches in the UK.
Avon Beach was awarded a Silver Flag for its safety, water quality and family friendly facilities, including café and takeaway, shops, toilets and parking with a level walk to the beach. Family activities include canoes, crab fishing and a bouncy slide for 10 year olds and under.
(Thanks to Geoff Franklin for the photo.)
(Click for bigger pic)
Following the article on August 12, in which mention was made of a charity
that was created to send eye specialists to remote areas of the World to
help people who would otherwise not get any treatment for their eye problems,
I have been given a very interesting little film from the charity's early
days in the 1950's.
Apparently they used to fly around Africa with only a compass for guidance,
in fragile old planes. It sounds amazing they every survived, much less
actually ended up when they intended.
The founder of Sight By Wings died some years ago, but his son (a local
resident and Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon) told me that the charity is
still operating, but unfortunately on a reduced scale.
He also gave me the film, which you can see by clicking below. (It is in
Windows Media Player format.)
Click here to see the film.
Changes -
|
| August 16 |
News - A three vehicle collision brought traffic chaos to Highcliffe yesterday afternoon.
It happened right outside the Rothesay Hotel on Lymington Road, at about 3:00pm, between a Mini, a Honda CRV, and a camper van.
All emergency services were required, with Honda roof having to be cut
off to get the female driver free.
Diversions were in place for quite a while.
It is not currently known if anyone suffered serious injuries.
(Thanks to Darren for the photos.)
 
(Click for bigger pics)
A couple of business items in Walkford.
In our "better late than never" series, the Waggy Tails charity
shop at 110a Ringwood Road is now L'Art de Beaute beauty shop, advertising
themselves as "Beauty treatments for all." (They've been open
a while - sorry I missed it.)
A planning application has been made to turn the Blooms Florist shop, at
100a Ringwood Road, into a cafe.
I'm told the plan is dividing the neighbours.
Changes -
Walkford page and Hair & Beauty page amended to reflect above item.
|
| August 12 |
News - Yet more local talent discovered.
A new website has just gone online, displaying the stunning - and mostly
local - aerial photographs taken by Andy Morris from Seaway Avenue.
Andy is a Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon, working at the Royal Bournemouth
and Nuffield Health hospitals, but who also has a passion for both flying
and photography.
The photos are now available for sale through In The Frame in the village
(362 Lymington Road) in various formats. You can get them as photographic
prints, or printed on canvas, or even as postcard sets.
The website display includes several of the Highcliffe coast, with others
from Milford to Bournemouth, and of the Isle of Wight. According to the
website, requests for commissioned photographs are also welcome.
I've discovered that the interesting website name is derived from the name
of a charity that Andy's father started around 1970 when he was flying
to remote eye clinics in East Africa to treat those far less fortunate
than ourselves, and which still supports Ophthalmologists on such overseas
trips.
www.sightbywings.co.uk
The mention of In The Frame reminds me - there are always exhibitions of
local art and photography taking place there, especially in their upstairs
gallery.
It really is well worth a visit when you are in the village centre.
Changes -
New Aerial photography section added to Business listings, and Photographic section amended also.
These changes reflect the above news item.
|
| August 11 |
News - There has been a business name change. PK Energy Solutions (at 341 Lymington Road) have become PK Building Services.
Although the company are experts at building and providing energy efficient
properties and products, they felt that the old name confused potential
customers, who may not have realised that their services include all traditional
building skills as well.
The next Fit Christchurch Fun Day is on September 18, and will be held on the Christchurch Quay.
There will be a week of activities in the week leading up to the day. This
will start with a five mile sponsored walk from Mudeford Quay to Highcliffe
and back, and will be led by the Mayor.
The intention is to get as many groups of people as possible out walking, running, and engaging in some physical activity during the week, and signing up to do a menu of 45 minute sessions of physical activities at least three times a week.
See all about the plan here.
Christchurch Lions Club will be holding their annual duck race on Bank
Holiday Monday, August 30.
The Quomps will see Fun and Games for all the family from 10a.m. to 5p.m,
with Tombola, Book Stall, Nick-Nacks, Face Painting, Fun Train, games,
etc.
The ducks will be launched into the Millstream from the bridge in Castle
Street (opposite The Kings Hotel) at 4p.m. by Julian Clegg, Presenter of
the Breakfast Show on BBC Radio Solent.
Changes -
Business listings and Plan amended to reflect change reported above.
|
| August 9 |
News - The Highcliffe Village Fete, organised by Highcliffee Rotary on Saturday
7, raised over £2000 for their chosen charities. This year the money mostly
went to children's charities, both local and abroad.
I inadvertently removed the Highcliffe Arts Fellowship annual Art Exhibition
from the What's On page.
The exhibition runs until Monday 16 (excluding Sunday). It's in the Methodist
Church Hall in Lymington Road.
Entry is free (catalogues are 50p) and the exhibits are for sale.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
|
| August 6 |
News - A little bit out of the village but close enough to be of interest.
Our regular early bird contributor, Stan, sent the following photo of a
close call right outside his studio this morning. (It happened right alongside
the "No Excuses" sign in Bure Lane.)
Apparently the RIB was being towed from Mudeford and turned into Friars
Road from Bure Lane, when the boat slid off its trailer and landed on the
footpath of Friars Road, at about 11:00am.
Luckily there was no one on the path at the time.
The owner quite frankly admitted that the boat was not secured properly.
The photo shows the recovery operation a couple of hours later.
(Click for bigger pic)
Changes -
|
| August 4 |
News - Our local brain dead morons were at it again last night. For some reason
their single figure IQs thought it would be a good idea to trash litter
bins near the Beach Hut Cafe.
Part of one bin was put on top of the toilet sign, and one of the penguin
fascias was thrown onto the beach some distance away.
Our resident early bird, Stan L-B (who also took the photo below) reported
it to a young council worker, hoping for some help in recovering the pieces
and putting the bin back together, but was told by the CBC employee (wages
paid by us of course) that he couldn't help as he had a bad shoulder and
shouldn't really be at work.
No comment.
 (Click for bigger pic)
Luckily, we are fortunate to have a large number of talented artists (of
all kinds) in our area, in complete contrast to the small number of prats
reported above, and it is good to tell you about a local artist, Mark van
Wingerden, who's work is being exhibited at a Highcliffe Castle exhibition.
Mark's works with acrylic on canvas or board, and usually uses his love
of the coast as their subject matter.
The exhibition runs until Sunday August 22, in the Ante-Library Gallery.
You can get a taste by visiting Mark's website www.markvanwingerden.com.
Over the next few weeks St John's Ambulance reps will be in the area, knocking
on doors.
They will carry ID and their clothing will bear the St John Ambulance logo.
They are not permitted to accept cash or cheques, so will be asking people
to sign up to make regular direct debit contributions.
If in doubt, do not open the door. Telephone a neighbour or friend to come
over and check out the caller.
Anyone with concerns regarding St John Ambulance fundraisers should contact
Judith Simpson or Alison Glenn at St John Ambulance on 01305 751 167.
While on the subject of unexpected callers, never give bank details to
anyone unless absolutely sure of their legitimacy. Definitely never reveal
your pin number to anyone, not even relatives or friends.
Changes -
What's On - New events added (including several jazz nights with Bernie Farrenden),
old events removed
|
| August 2 |
News - Item in the "Better late than never" category.
The Old Vicarage Hotel at Hinton has closed. The agent tells me that they
currently have no prospective client for the property, which was extensively
refurbished not all that long ago.
A new business opened in the village last week.
Belvoir! Letting Agents opened in 302 Lymington Road. Owner Jeremy Clarke
already has branches in Bournemouth and Christchurch.
They would love to hear from anyone with property to let.
Nothing to do with Highcliffe specifically, but I (and others such as Stan,
and others who noticed) found it irritating to receive the latest copy
of CBC's magazine - The Courier - in which a photo of children from Christchurch
and from other European locations showed the Union flag upside down.
I'm sure many people couldn't care less, but to many others it shows a
lack of respect.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
Highcliffe Rotary Club contact details have changed on Local organisations page.
Letting agents, Hotels, Restaurants, and Plan - all amended (to reflect above news items)
|
| July 28 |
News - Highcliffe is currently experiencing some long queues of traffic.
The hole at the junction of Hinton Wood Avenue and Lymington Road has been
sitting there for many weeks, without any noticable sign of work being
done to it.
Guess what - now that the school holidays have started, temporary lights and single lane traffic has been introduced.
Further to the article about keeping Highcliffe clean and litter free, regular contributor Stan L-B has pointed out that there are already some people doing their bit.
Among them is Pam Benwell, who along with her lovely lurcher Bella, spends
time almost every morning collecting rubbish from the beaches, often including
the broken glass left by the few morons who think it's fun to smash their
booze bottles where families play and dogs walk.
Great stuff Pam - an example to us all.
Here's an interesting request. Below is the email, exactly as received.
(I would be very interested if anyone follows this up, especially if you end up participating. Email me please.)
---------------
Hi there, I am a researcher for a new series of BBC1's Rip Off Britain (with Gloria Hunniford, Angela Rippon and Jennie Bond) and I am looking for people to get in touch and tell me about problems they have had with companies/services. I am looking in particular for people who are not camera shy and who have the paperwork/evidence to back up their claim.
Problems I am looking into at the moment include:
Water bills
Funeral costs
Utility bills
The cost of directory inquiry eg 188 phone numbers
Problems with online supermarket deliveries (food close to sell-by date etc)
Weekly payment stores eg BrighHouse - APR and service cover costs
Private Medical Insurance
People who have bought "HD Ready" TVs without realising they will need to buy extra equipment to actually get HD.
Insurance
Banks
Car problems…
And many more.
If you could pass this email round your members that would be great. They can reply to the email with their phone numbers and I will get in touch, or I can be contacted on 0161 2443976.
Many thanks
Katie Cooksey
katie.cooksey@bbc.co.uk
------------------------------------
Burton Youth Football Club, who provide football for over 140 boys and
girls aged six to sixteen, are having a Summer Fun Day on Sunday August
8.
There's lot going on, with fun for all ages, BBQ, stalls, music, etc etc. Here's their flyer with more info, or see What's On for times etc.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
|
| July 26 |
News - A Highcliffe resident has come up with a plan to help keep our village neat and tidy. I know the lady has put a considerable amout of effort into the scheme, investigating all the heath and safety issues, and negotiating with the Coucil.
It sounds like a spendid idea to me, but obviously won't get off the ground
without local help. Anyone interested should contact the lady.
Details are below. (These are her words, exactly as sent to me.)
----------
A VILLAGE WE CAN BE PROUD OF - OR NOT?
Are you one of those people like me that walk around the centre of the village and look at the cigarette ends, sandwich boxes and general rubbish blowing along the pavements? I have wasted so much of my energy talking about how awful it looks and now realise that it does not help to shout about it if nothing actually happens to change things.
I am therefore proposing a self-help cleaning group to really give us back PRIDE IN THE VILLAGE.
ARE YOU PREPARED TO BE PART OF SUCH A GROUP?
We all realise the money is not there for those ideals. So why not try and get the effect we want by doing it ourselves and making new friends at the same time.
I am looking for a group of like minded people that will be offered yellow jackets, be in possession of a grabber and refuse bag (all supplied by CBC) and that we work our way down the High Street from The Globe, taking in the area around the traffic lights At Sea Corner – and any other roads that bug you.
My proposal is that we meet say every 4-6 weeks and brush up the areas most in need and generally leave it clean and tidy. No heavy work envisaged. After our first session, perhaps we might then make a visit to the various shop keepers to seek co-operation in keeping their shop frontages tidy until our next session.
What do you think – are you willing to help? If enough people get involved I will arrange for us to get together to share ideas and arrange a time and date to get started.
I am told they do this in Christchurch and the group is called “Critters” - Perhaps we could start a competition to name our Highcliffe group!!
My email and telephone number are available – so I will await the rush!!
Connie Pearce
01425 271006
conniepearce@btinternet.com
----------
There are two telephone scams doing the rounds at present.
One is trying to find out what kind of home security you have, with the aim of trying to sell expensive systems to you over the phone.
(If you want security acvice, contact contact your local Safer Neighbourhood team - details on the Services page, under PACT.)
The other scam is trying to sell SKY customers expensive insurance, and
they want your bank details over the phone.
This is NOT anything to do with SKY, and definitely should not be even
discussed.
The next Over 50s Forum meeting is on August 5, in the Council Chambers.
The agenda is here.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
Useful links page has a couple of broken links fixed. (Yes - I know the page still needs to be redone with the newer appearance.)
|
| July 19 |
News - Full details will follow shortly, but our councillors have succeeded in negotiating an improved bus service for Highcliffe.
The current C1/C2 service will be extended through Cranemoor Avenue, Thursby
Road, Braemar Drive, Gordon Road, Waterford Road and into the cliff top
car park by the Clifhanger Cafe.
The service will start at Hurn at 8:03am, and mainly follow the old C1/C2
route through the borough, via Sainsburys. It will finish in the cliff
top car park at 4.53pm, with 5 journeys during the day.
Three local businesses are now working together to provide a complete wedding
service.
Tony Hair, Flowers By Design (who are both maintaining their Highcliffe
premises) and Bliss (who have actually closed their Highcliffe shop as
part of the arrangment) have opened up in Christchurch at Number 1, High
Street (by the Fountain Roundabout). It's good to see local businesses
positive enough to invest in their futures.
(By the way, Tony Hair has some excellent opening offers.)
For those who have asked about the fire engine entering the Steamer Point
Nature Reserve on Friday last - it was a training exercise, practicing
cliff rescue.
Regular contributor, Stan L-B (out and about early as usual) found the
Coastal protection guys working at 7:00am last Friday.
As well as reinforcing the rock groynes, they are renewing several of the
top hats (the official term, I'm told) on the posts at the ends of the
groynes.
It was interesting to see that our lonely cormorant (Charles) was using
the new fixtures at the weekend.
(Just in case you wondered what they were for.)
It seems that crimes such as purse/handbag stealing, and distraction burglaries
are more common across the Borough at present.
The advice is to not to answer your door unless you have the chain in place.
Don't let anyone in you don't know.
Don't leave doors and windows open when you go out. Take extra care of
your bags, purses, and wallets while out and about.
Changes -
|
| July 14 |
News - A new business has started up in Highcliffe. PK Energy Solutions has
moved into the old Bliss bridal shop at 345 Lymington Road.
They are a building company, and are (and I quote) "Builders of fine homes of distinction with super energy efficiency built in as standard."
Changes -
What's On - More details added to CODA Rock & Pop Academy event (26-30 July).
Plan amended (see news item above).
Builders page amended (see news item above).
|
| July 13 |
News - A lady at Bournemouth University is conducting a survey to look into
any public consultation that took place (or is taking place) over the expansion
plans for Bournemouth Airport.
She is looking for people from Christchurch, Bournemouth, and Poole - or anyone within 5 miles of those places.
It's a simple online questionaire, and if anyone wants to respond.
("Public consultation" I hear you cry "What public consultation?")
http://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/325668/Questionnaire-for-local-Residents
Here's something for any budding pop or rock musicians between 11 and 17
years old.
CODA is holding a Rock & Pop Academy. It's a 5 day course from July 26 to 30, with a live gig to finsih with on Friday 30.
More info, booking details, and some photos of last year's event, can be
found here:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Coda-Rock-Pop-Academy/138435416176229
Police are warning of a recent scam that has been targeting business owners
by offering them advertising space in fictitious Home Watch, charity, or
emergency services brochures.
Consumer Direct have confirmed this is an on-going scam. The Neighbourhood
and Home Watch Network wish to make clear they do not produce local brochures,
or contract other companies to do so. You are advised to never deal with
anyone over the phone until you have confirmed that they are legitimate,
however plausible they may seem.
Changes -
What's On - New events added.
Another very nice photo of a Highcliffe visitor (or maybe resident) added
to Pictures page. (Thanks to regular contributor Barrie Taylor.)
|
| July 12 |
News - Christchurch Activities For Young People provides a large range of activities for young people of all ages.
I quote:
"The main aim of CAYP is to provide affordable activities to all young
people and their families across the Christchurch area. We do not aim to
provide childcare but offer structured and supervised activities which
are fun and exciting."
Take a look at their program for the coming months, either on this flyer, or by visiting their website.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
Very nice photo of a Highcliffe sunset added to Pictures page. (Thanks to Chris Brewer.)
Latest residents Association newsletter - Update - has been added to the HRA page.
Very bad photo of PC Alan Leeland (Community police officer for Highcliffe and Walkford) added to Services page.
CAYP website (see news item above) added to Community links page.
|
| July 6 |
News - Christchurch has been experiencing a rise in "Theft from Motor
Vehicles" during the last 4 - 6 weeks. Predominantly this rise has
been in the area of West Christchurch, Mudeford and Friars Cliff.
Police request that vehicle owners close all windows and lock their vehicles
when they are not in use. Remove any valuables that can be seen through
vehicle windows that could make the vehicle attractive to a thief.
Here's a couple of encouraging items about our sometimes maligned Council
and Councillors.
A resident recently contacted Councillor Derham-Wilkes to point out that
(probably) the only roundabout in the area without any plants on display
was the one at the junction of Ringwood Road and Lymington Road (near Naish).
Within two days a lovely show of geraniums was in place. Good work by all
concerned I'd say.
I also notice that the Council's contractors responsible for emptying bins
along beach areas have been working extremely hard during the recent fine
weather.
The beaches have been very busy, with lots of rubbish generated, and lots
of BBQs used and discarded.
Most (nowhere near all of course) have at least bagged their rubbish and
left it alongside bins which are understandably not capable of taking the
sheer volumes of waste generated by the amount of visitors we have been
getting.
Not only has the rubbish been getting cleared regularly, but someone has
had the common sense to tie extra bin bags to any convenient railing adjacent
to the bins, to provide extra receptacles.
Here's a few facts for you.
CBC has a total of 475 litter and dog bins throughout the Borough. Between
250 and 390 are checked and emptied each week day.
During the Summer over 230 bins are checked and emptied every Saturday
and over 280 are checked and emptied every Sunday. Over the year, there
are over 100,000 checks and empties.
It seems to me that despite a few inevitable problems here and there, our
Council - despite having only a team of 7 workers with one supervisor (plus
the beach clean contractors) - do a remarkably good job.
I also understand that they are always looking for ways to improve the
service.
I also understand that since CBC changed the Parking Wardens into Civil
Enforcement Officers (CEOs), in October 2008 (CEOs are empowered to enforce
the regulations against dropping litter or allowing dog fouling) they have
issued 47 Penalty Charge Notices, 38 of which have been for littering,
with the remainder for dog-fouling.
I realise that this is only a small team, but my only critisism would be
that the CEOs (or the Community Support Officers) should have more of a
presence on the beach areas at busy times.
Anti social behaviour of all kinds often ruins an otherwise nice visit
to the beach.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
|
| July 1 |
News - Reference yesterday's story about the Hawk sailing craft on the beach.
Our old friend Stan L-B (of photographic fame) did some investigation and
came up with some intesting facts.
In Stan's own words:
"I took note of the name on the transom of this Hawk 20 dinghy -'Havslopare'
(Nordic for Stormy Petrel) and checked the registration number on the Small
Ships Register thinking it could be stolen from a mooring, here or abroad.
It crossed my mind that perhaps it was a new Viking landing!
Even more bizarre, when I made searches of the Small Ships Register and on the Name it came up as my surname! - No relation that I am aware.
It seems that with the High Pressure conditions over the British Isles
combined with the Low water Springs there was insufficient water to get
into Mudeford Harbour. A soft landing on the beach was ideal and safe for
the night."
As we reported yesterday, it seems Stan's last idea was nearest the mark,
but the boat ended up clear of the water, rather than in it.
Don't forget the excellent Songbirds are performing at the Conqueror Inn (East Close Hotel) tonight, starting
at 7:30pm. Free entry.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
Accommodation and Places to Eat pages updated. (New entries on both pages.)
|
| June 29 |
News - An interesting situation at Steamer Point this morning, when early visitors
found a yatch high and dry on the beach.
It wasn't too long before the Police turned up to investigate, but as the
sails were stowed and everything seemed to be in order, it looked to me
like it had broken from its moorings and drifted.
Apparently later in the morning the boat was man handled back into the water and towed off by the Lifeboat, which would seem to add weight to my view that nothing too serious had happened.
(Click for bigger pics.)
 High and Dry
 Investigating
Also this morning, the Neptune team currently working on the sea defenses
were taking sand from below the tide line and moving it higher onto the
beach. It will be interesting to see if they intend to do this all along
Friars Cliff.
Same area - there is a beach clean this coming Sunday (July 4). Meet at
the Steamer Point wave wall at 10:30am.
SCOOP shop has now closed.
The grapevine suggests that Barry D's Cafe is either on the market, or
about be put on the market.
The Bliss Wedding Shop is closed, and is moving to Christchurch. (The story is that a builder is moving his offices into the premises.)
As reported a while ago, O'Rileys has changed hands (again) and is reverting
to Napoleons. I understand they now have permssion for the new signage,
and that it should happen very soon.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
Plan changed.
|
| June 28 |
News - As expected, this weekend at the beach was hot and busy, and if you
were anywhere near Steamer Point and Castle Beach it was also very noisy
with the Thunder Cats in action.
However, it was good to see this morning that they had done a pretty good
job of cleaning up after themselves - unlike many of our visitors.
Which leads me neatly to a a litter and mess situation in the village centre
(in addition to the beaches and paths).
The Borough Council got in touch with the Residents Association to see
if a team of clean up volunteers could be raised, as Britain in Bloom is
looming.
This coincided with an approach from a member of the HRA about the huge amount of rubbish laying about in our village.
The HRA asked the Council who was actually responsible for cleaning the
area, but were not expecting the response they got.
Apparently it is the responsibility of "Street Clean".
When asked about their contract, and what intervals they are supposed to clean Highcliffe, HRA was told that "Street Clean" are a sub division of the council, and are paid by the Government, but don't appear to be answerable to anyone, and certainly not the Parks and Grounds Department.
It seems to ge that the man in charge, Mr Phil LLoyd-Jones, is only answerable
to himself, but is paid by our council tax.
The HRA is investigating further.
A regular contributor, Stan Laurenson-Batten, noticed that the vandals
have been busy again, when he found a memorial seat had been ripped from
its footings and taken down to the beach, where it was found beside the
remains of a smoldering BBQ. Well done again lads. (Perhaps we should be
grateful it was n't actually used as fuel.)
The family of George (Bill) and Dorothy Jones will probably be interested
in this situation.
Stan also spotted a couple of horses - Rio and Flynne - on the beach on
his early morning walk on Saturday. Presumably the ladies had extra large
poo bags with them. Oh - I forgot - according to the Council official I
spoke to, horse poo is nutricious and is perfectly safe to eat, so doesn't
need to be cleared up.
(Lots of Stan's superb and artistic photographic work can be seen at www.pictec.net.)
Local singing duo, The Songbirds, were in action on Friday. They performed
at a big charity Summer Ball at The Captain's Club on Friday and went down
a storm, keeping going until Midnight.
They also shared the stage with Niki Evans, who came 3rd in The X Factor in 2007, but who is now starring in the West End.
Congratulations to Shaun and Dawn at The Scullery. They have been running
the tearooms and cafe for a year now, and have taken what was already a
popular and successful business a stage further. Not only do they provide
a bigger range of hot food, but have opened up a traditional sweetshop
and ice cream service next door. (This despite having the competition of
a large sweet shop opening just down the road at the same time. The lease
on that shop is on the market though, so it looks like Winston's at Number
354 is on it's way.)
It looks like The Scullery's next door neighbour, Sea Corner Italian Restaurant
and Bed and Breakfast, has gone. Having made life difficult since The Scullery
originally opened (it must be the most inspected premises in the area after
being reported to the Council's Health and Safety Department on many occasions
- always by the next door neighbours) it is now said that the proprietor
of Sea Corner has slipped quietly into the night, leaving the kitchen in
particular in a very dirty state, and leaving the landlord with a very
large deficit - all rumour of course.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
Plan changed.
|
| June 23 |
News - If you fancy a peaceful trip to the beach at Steamer Point this coming weekend, forget it !
The exciting (but very noisy) Thunder Cats are back. Mostly arriving on
Friday, these very fast little craft will be on the water over the weekend.
The lifeboat was out on Monday afternoon at around 5:00pm.
A kite border was rescued after being in the water for quite a while. A broken down jet ski was also checked out, but seems to have been rescued and towed to shore by a little white boat that was in the area.
The lifeboat crew came in close to shore to check on the owner, but all
was well, so they took the kite border back along towards Avon Beach. It
is believed he was unhurt.
There are a few items of busines news coming later, but some facts need
checking first.
Changes -
|
| June 21 |
News - A lovely collection of old American vehicles had a run out on Saturday.
they came from Beaulieu to the Crows Nest car park. They drew quite a crowd
(much to the delight of the Cliffhanger, whio had long queues for drinks
and ice creams). Here's a classic pink Cadillac. (Thanks Jane.)
(Click the pic for larger version)
The Friday market is looking good, with a fine range of produce and goods
on offer, many of which are locally grown or produced. Here's one of my
favourite stalls. (Thanks Barrie.)
 (Click the pic for larger version)
We keep unearthing very talented and highly entertaining locals.
Polly Morris writes, sings, and plays several instruments. If you like
your humour with a cutting edge, have a listen to such songs as "The
MP Expenses Claim Song" or "The Money that looks so like Mine"
(about the generosity of our previous government).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOgSvmUIGFA
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
|
| June 19 |
News - There's a brand new 2010 Beach Award flag flying over Friars Cliff.
The award follows an inspection a week ago yesterday (June 11).
 (Click the pic for larger version)
Changes -
Accommodation page has new self catering business added - Cherry Tree
|
| June 18 |
News - There's some confusion about the proposed new path mentioned in previous reports.
Unfortunately, this confusion has not been helped by me, so I'll try to
clarify the situation.
The path will run from the end of the existing path at Crow's Nest (between
the car park and the clifftop).
It will go behind the houses on the South side of Wharncliffe Road to the
steps (Culmore Steps). This stretch is currently grass, but becomes very
muddy in wet weather, making it dangerous to use.
After lengthy talks, the Council came up with a materials only cost of
£10,000 and Highcliffe Residents Association agreed to contribute a substantial
part of this cost (£3,500). It was stated that the CBC in-house team of
workmen (Coastal Engineering Team) could complete the work before the school
holidays.
There was no ambiguity - I've seen the correspondence).
As reported, the Council then came back and said that they had not said
the work would be done by their workmen, and basically said that it would
be considered if the Residents Association would pay the labour costs as
well.
This would mean of course, that as we tax payers already pay the Council's
employees, and as we HRA members raise the money being talked about, we
would all be paying the labour costs twice - once by taxation, and once
by taking even more money from our Residents Association's capital.
You can make your own minds up about the actions of CBC's officers in this
matter.
There's another local presentation of the Home Safety - Falls prevention
meeting.
It's at the Baptist Church in Christchurch on June 29.
There's lots of advice on living a safe and independant life in your own
home.
All the details here.
As previously reported, The Hairy Bikers are coming to Christchurch, and
you could be part of the show.
See this poster for all the information.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
Methodist Church page updated with latest newsletter.
|
| June 14 |
News - becoming better known by the day, excellent local singing duo The Songbirds now have a site on the web.
It is brand new, so there's not much on there yet, but you can hear some
of their music, and find out where you can catch them locally, by visiting
http://www.myspace.com/thesongbirdsuk
Following my piece yesterday about cycling on our proms, a view has been
put forward that what we need is not more legislation, but more responsible
bike riders.
I cannot disagree with that at all, as it makes complete sense.
Unfortunately, it is a fact that some of the more militant cyclists among
us believe that they should be able to ride anywhere at anytime, and will
never give consideration to other people (on pavements, roads, or anywhere
else).
The irresponsible minority - as in all walks of life - is the reason why
enforced compulsion is often necessary.
Situations like this cause a dilema. A few people are ruining other peoples'
pleasure, but we could end up with another inflexible situation - just
like the bye laws regarding dogs on beaches and proms.
I don't think that anyone would object to cycling responsibly at quiet
times. But currently, I can ride my bike on the promenade, even when it
is crowded with people, including elderly and very young.
At the same time, if I let my dog walk alongside me on the prom (or even
on the beach) at a time when there is not another soul about, I am liable
to receive a fine.
This is ludicrous. If we are relying on cyclists to be responsible, then
we should do the same with dog owners.
Two other points have been made.
Some (a minority again) people using mobility scooters on the prom are also inconsiderate, and seem to think everyone should be leaping out of their way as they bomb along. Although in my experience, this is very small minority.
Also, it has been claimed that Bournemouth and Poole have found a sensible
compromise between all promenade users, without the need for more legislation.
That may be true, but they have the huge advantage of beach officers, and
other officials, who actually are present on the beaches and promenades
at the same times as visitors - unlike Christchurch.
I was amazed last week to discover that the Council officers actually knew where the beach is.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
Entertainers page updated.
|
| June 13 |
News - Here's a couple of little gems connected to Chrisrchurch Borough Council.
First the plan to continue the clifftop path to top of Culdmore Steps.
CBC told the Residents Association recently that the materials price for
the work would be £10,000, which would include a donation from HRA of £3,500,
and that if the work was carried out by the internal Coastal Engineering
Department, it would be completed in time for the school holidays.
Without comment, I give you the latest statement from Alan Ottaway, Principal
Officer C&OS, Christchurch Borough Council.
At this stage we haven't decided if this is to be an internally undertaken
job or not. I simply quoted a timescale if they did do the job.
Our Coastal Engineering Team are challenged to work on a range of schemes
and this work is an addition to their programme rather than part and parcel
of it. Although it is perfectly feasible for them or any other contractor
to separate out the labour cost, if we do employ an outside contractor
I hope you would be prepared to reconsider the level of contribution as
we could well tender the work to ensure value for money is achieved.
If the job is undertaken in-house then we will still have
to pay the men for their work so one way or the other we will have to look at
the true (total) project cost and fund it accordingly.
The other item is about the beach areas. A "senior council officer"
was wandering Friars Cliff on early Friday morning with his clipboard.
With another official, he was ensuring everything was in order for a beach
inspection due in the afternoon (results of which are not known yet).
He was approaching the dog owners to ensure animals were kept on leads on the prom, which is fair enough, as it is a bye law, but there were only about 7 or 8 people on the whole stretch from Steamer Point to Avon Beach shops, and not one person on the beach at all.
It seemed to some to be a fairly pointless exercise, and one or two people
questioned the officer, in particular about cycling on the prom, especially
at busy times.
It was pointed out that if any officials ever appeared at weekends, when
the prom and beaches are crowded with people, many of whom are elderly
or very young, they would see for themselves how dangerous cycling is.
We all know that despite the No Cycling signs, there is no actual bye law
to stop them, regardless of how dangerous cycling through crowds on a narrow
pavement is.
Many also believe that cyclists are a militant lot who think that because
of their so called green credentials they can cycle wherever and whenever
they want, regardless of other people, and that only a byelaw (which is
enforced) will stop their anti social behaviour.
The officer tried to suggest that his questioners were all anti cycling, which of course was nonsense. All the people were saying was that cycling on proms busy with pedestrians is dangerous and anti social.
Apparently there is supposed to be some kind of public consultation taking
place to decide what the public view is on the subject, with a view to
applying to Government for a bye law if the majority want a ban.
All I can say is that I am on the beach twice a day, all year around. I
also have an ear fairly close to the ground locally, and I for one am totally
unaware of such a consultation.
Let me know if you have any information on this.
Another questioner asked why horses are allowed on the beaches, and why
they are allowed to poo without having to clean up.
The answer was - and I kid you not - is that horse poo is nutricious, won't
do you any harm, and that you can eat it.
Unfortunately, due to the early hour, there were no parents on the beach
with small children. It would have been interesting to hear what they have
to say on the subject.
Before all you bolshy cyclists and horse riders start sending angry emails,
I am most definitely NOT anti cycling, nor anti horse. I happen to love
both.
On the other hand, I want to walk down the prom without being forced to
jump out of the way of the many cyclists (of all ages) weaving in out of
the crowds, and I want to be able to sit on the beach without having to
find a spot not knee deep in horse poo.
An entry from my dictionary:
prom·e·nade (pr m -n d , -näd ). n. 1. a. A leisurely walk, especially
one taken in a public place as a social activity. b. A public place for
such walking. ...
(Anyone see any reference to cycling there? I thought not. The council
officer tried to tell us the word meant any kind to movement, including
cycling)
Changes -
|
| June 10 |
News - URGENT.
Please vote for State of Undress and their world cup song in the Wave105
competition mentioned yesterday.
You have until 7:30am tomorrow morning, so do it soon. It's just a tick
in a box.
They are currently running second to a group produced by Barry Upton (of
Cheeky Girls fame).
http://www.wave105.com/article.asp?id=1821554&pollid=28734&iframe=&vc=1&#poll
It looks like we might well be getting a footpath along the clifftop, linking
the existing path to Culmore Steps. This would be a crushed limestone path
(similar to other paths in the area) and cost about £10,000 in materials
alone. Of this, £3,500 is being donated by Highcliffe Residents Association
CIC.
The work will be carried out by CBC's Coastal Engineering team, and if
everything is agreed, the work would take place during July, in time for
the school holiday period.
You may or may not have heard of the Diana Awards (named after the Princess
of Wales). I quote from their website:
The Diana Award recognises and supports amazing young people. Our Award
Holders challenge negative stereotypes of young people, get off their backsides
to change their communities, and put their own difficulties to one side
while putting others first.
It is good to report that Highcliffe School pupil, Holly Charlwood has
been awarded the Award for her excellent work and leadership of the High
5 project in Highcliffe School.
The message from the awards manager reads “ The assessors were really impressed with it and particularly thought that the nominee was an excellent role model and that the nomination really did have that “Wow” factor that we were looking for.”
Well done Holly - you should be proud, and are an example to us all - regardless
of age.
There must be something about the corner where Southcliffe and Avon Run
Road meet.
An ambulance was again called to the spot this morning at around 7:30,
after agentleman collapsed on the pathway down to the beach. No other details
currently available.
As mentioned yesterday, Lord Montagu's 1899 daimler was at the Castle yesterday, to help the official opening of the exhibition celebrating 15 years of the Castle being open to the public.
Here's a photo of the beautiful machine. (Thanks to Barrie for it. Click
for the big version.)
Changes -
What's On - New events added
|
| June 9 |
News - Today sees the 15th anniversary of the opening of Highcliffe Castle
to the public. (Can it really be that long?!)
To mark the occasion there will be an exhibition looking back on that opening and the 15 years that have seen the Castle become the celebrated attraction and community resource that it is today. The exhibition runs from the 10th of June until the 12th of September and includes newspaper cuttings, video footage and digital images of the Castle through the years.
Official opening ceremony will be this evening at 6:00pm (by the Mayor,
Councillor Nick Geary) with opening for the public starting tomorrow.
Also, from 4:30pm TODAY Lord Montagu has kindly agreed to let the famous
Beaulieu 1899 12hp Daimler being available for the event, as it was at the Castle
15 years ago for the official opening. The car will be available for photograph
opportunities during the launch.
If you would like further information on photograph opportunities for this event, please contact the Castle on 01425 278807.
(Sorry about the lateness of this news, but CBC have only released the
information this morning.)
Tomorrow sees the second semi final of Wave 105's England World Cup Songs
Competition, and local band State of Undress are one of the two entries.
Go to this website to vote for them - please. http://www.wave105.com/article.asp?id=1786774
If you haven't heard the song, you can hear it here. http://www.wave105.com/article.asp?id=1821546
Changes -
|
| June 8 |
News - Reference the Football Fusion Festival, due to be held in August at
Parley, but postponed until next year (causing the organisers to have to
refund many ticket holders).
The postponement looks like it was caused by Christchurch Borough Council
Licensing Committee (meeting on May 20).
The organisers were originally hoping for 15,000 visitors a day (later
reduced to 10,000 a day) but the Licensing Committee turned down the application
over fears about noise, disorder, and traffic problems.
It is probably unlikely that they would ever agree to an event with even
the reduced numbers requested anyway.
Interesting little story about Highcliffe Bowls Club. A couple of days
ago bowling had to be abandoned when a swarm of bees settled in the middle
of the green.
A beekeeper was called to remove them.
Changes -
|
| June 7 |
News - The new community police officer (and PACT team member) for Highcliffe
and Walkford is PC Alan Leeland.
Alan is taking a couple of days leave before he starts work on June 9.
I am hoping to meet Alan next week, and am looking forward to adding his
views and comments here, hopefully on a regular basis.
Local singing duo, The Songbirds, have a couple of local gigs coming up
in the next few weeks, both at the East Close Hotel, in The Conqueror Inn.
Thursday June 24, and the following Thursday - July 1, both from 7:30pm.
The girls were also booked to perform at Football Fusion Festival, in August.
Organised by Matt Le Tissier, Jamie Redknapp, and Frank Lampard, it is
a celebration of football and music teaming up together.
The Songbirds would have been performing with great acts such as The Enemy,
The Hoosiers, Miss Dynamite, and Boney M, and there were to be three 1-hour
long tv programmes made, which would have given our local duo a national
audience.
Unfortunately, it has just been announced on the Festival website that
it has to be postponed until May 2011 (no explanation that I could find).
The many people who already have purchased tickets are to be refunded.
Back to The Globe development, and the issues about wildlife.
There was indeed an ecological study of the site, which includes precise
recommendations about how to protect the threatened creatures, including
the slowworms and lizards known to inhabit the site.
The report can be seen here.
(Thanks to Steve for locating this for us.)
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
Services page replaced. (I'm currently trying to check the details listed. Please email if you spot any mistakes or omissions.)
|
| June 6 |
News - There was drama at Friars Cliff yesterday afternoon. On probably the
busiest day of the year so far, a section of beach was cleared so that
the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance could land.
It seems a lady had fallen from her bike on the corner of Avon Run Road
and Southcliffe. The Rapid Response doctor, followed by the paramedics
in an ambulance quickly arrived, but decided that because of a suspected
spinal injury, the helicopter should be called.
The team took some time getting the lady onto a stretcher, before carrying
her down the ramp to the beach and flying her to hospital.
(As always, click the pics for larger versions)
 The ambulance arrives
 The patient is carried across the beach
 Leaving in a cloud of sand
Changes -
|
| June 4 |
News - Reference the clearance of the site for the Travel Lodge behind the
Globe.
I'm now told that some efforts were made to monitor what species were on
the site. As yet I don't have the results of those efforts, nor what was
done about any creatures or species found.
Here is the information I have been given today - as provided.
"Firstly, many months ago I noticed wildlife survey mats were put
down in the area being developed to ascertain what species resided there.
Secondly, before development a huge length of wildlife protective one foot
tall solid screening the entire length of the developed site has been dug
into the soil to prevent such species straying into the site area."
After a slight delay the Highcliffe market is back. It's now located in
the Wortley Road car park, and should be open every Friday from now on
- or at least until next Winter.
Changes -
|
| June 3 |
News - It seems that work has started on a new HQ for the Marine and Coastguard
Agency, currently based at Steamer Point. The MCA took ownership of the
old Fleet Air Arm site at HMS Daedalus site at Lee on Solent some time
ago (2006 I believe). The site has always been the base for the air/sea
rescue service for that stretch of coast, and ownership ensured the service
could continue to be located there.
Now it looks like they are to move their education facility there as well.
This means of course that the Steamer Point facility will close, probably
inless that two years.
This opens a whole can of worms, with the future of the site a prime concern.
I can imagine that developers are already drooling, so I hope that CBC
is ready for a battle to stop blocks of cliff top apartments being built
there.
The closure would also badly hit many of out local accommodation providers,
already hit by recession, and even more so by the ridiculously big motel
development at the Globe in the village centre.
I still find it difficult to believe that a development like that was permitted,
almost without a fight of any kind. Council planners might as well have
said to all local B&Bs in the area "You might as well sell up
now, because we are going to help Whitbread destroy your businesses."
Both the Business Association and the Residents Association not only did
not object to the plan, but encouraged it, presumably believing that hordes
of people staying at the Travel Lodge will be wandering the High Street
spending money in all the shops.
(I don't know about you good folk, but that's not how I use a motel. I
use them to put my head down for the night, perhaps after visiting family
for a wedding or something. Then it's a quick breakfast - on site - and
in the car and away.)
While on the subject of this development, it has been pointed out that the site being cleared has for generations been the home of protected species, such as slow worms. No consideration has been given to this destruction at all, not even a chance for wild life experts to collect the creatures and move them to safety.
If anyone else feels strongly about this wanton vandalism, they might want
to consider contacting the various organisations that could maybe do something
about it. Two that come to mind are:
Christchurch Wildlife Service
Dorset Wildlife Trust
Highcliffe Cricket Club are looking for more members, both adult and junior.
They play friendlies on Sunday's, with home matches at Wingfields (off
Smugglers lane North).
Contact Peter Jacobs on 01425 275426.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
|
| June 1 |
News - There is a Mudeford Wood Community Centre website now. It has been created
to promote the Mudeford Wood Community Centre and all of the various user
groups that use it.
www.mudefordwoodcommunitycentre.co.uk
Changes -
Above website added to Community links page.
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
|
| May 28 |
News - There's a chance to see superb local singer Sophie Rhodes tomorrow (Friday
29).
Sophie is playing lunchtime (at 1:30pm) at The Thomas tripp in Christchurch.
She is also close by in a couple of weeks, when she performs at the Lamb
Inn at Winkton on Sunday June 13, starting at 1:45pm.
(These gigs are in addition to the already reported Friday June 4 performance
at The Lamb Inn, starting at 9:30pm.)
Next week (half term) sees archery sessions at the Castle. From Monday
May 31 to Friday June 4, you can try your hand for £5 a session. Martin
Young, a local Long Bow Archer, will be holding sessions daily from 11am
to 4pm, in the Castle Walled Gardens.
Suitable for ages 7 and over, anyone is welcome to go along and have a
go. Sessions will be booked every half an hour and will last 20 minutes
each. Just turn up on your preferred day to secure your place (weather
permitting and subject to availability). Sessions will include some basic
coaching. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Don't forget that this Saturday also sees the now annual Christchurch Community Celebration. This is based on the ancient Trinity Fair, and will include performances, displays, exhibitions and stalls (which are mostly in Druitt Gardens).
See the website for a full list of everything that's going on.
Changes -
What's On - New events added (lots), old events removed.
|
| May 21 |
News - So what has been happening during my week offline?
Not too much by the looks of it - unless you know differently.
The Dorset Strategic Partnership is holding a 12 week public consultation on the 'Shaping our Future, the sustainable community strategy for Dorset 2010-2020'.
They want to hear your views. (The deadline for responses is Friday 6 August
2010.)
To read or print the document, and to add your views, go to the following
County Council webpage:
http://www.dorsetforyou.com/communitystrategyrevision
Thanks to Phil for sending a link to a trollybus website, which includes
photos and info about trollys around the Christchurch area. I'm sure those
of us old enough to remember them will find it interesting. (The site will
be added to the appropriate links page very soon.)
http://www.trolleybus.net/bournemouth.htm
A while ago we mentioned an idea to set up a club to support widowers in
the Borough.
The Phoenix Club is now up and running. Offering support and companionship
to widowers in a social setting, the Club meets weekly on Monday mornings
between 10.30am and 12.30pm at Christchurch Baptist Church Hall.
All the details can be found on this flyer.
The replacement for the Highcliffe and Walkford community police officer, Justin Clarke, who recently moved to pastures new, is expected to be in place for the second week in June.
There will then be a PACT meeting at Highcliffe Castle, which will include
an introduction.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
|
| May 12 |
News - Once again, the opinion of local people (and in this case, the opinion of our local council and councillors) has been completely ignored.
Once again, large business - with the backing of unelected beurocrats-
has got its way and ridden roughshod over peoples' lives and concerns.
The appeal by Vodafone against the refusal for a phone mast in the middle
of the residential area around Humphrey's Bridge has been granted !
You can see the full report by Graham Dudley (BA (Hons) Arch Dip Cons AA
RIBA FRICS - an Inspector appointed by the Secretary of State for Communities
and Local Government) below.
Here is the report
There's to be a Teddy Bears Picnic on Christchurch Quay (Bandstand) on Sunday, May 23, at 2.30pm.
Why not take Teddy, a picnic, and maybe even your parents?
The Christchurch Royal Legion Band will be playing a wide range of music, including (of course) The Teddy Bears Picnic.
Changes -
What's On - New events added.
|
| May 10 |
News - We are getting our market back it seems. Following the recent eviction
(without even a week's notice) from The Globe car park, negotiations have
been taking place between Southern Market Traders Coop Chief Executive,
Paul Lewis, and Christchurch Council.
As long as a proposal is agreed at the Community Services Committee meeting on May 19, the market will be reopening in the Wortley Road car park. Good news indeed.
How about these intrepid souls? It's 9:00am on Sunday morning, there's
a very cold North East wind blowing, and these guys are going for a "training"
swim. The lady in the yellow hat is Ann McGrath, the teacher from Mudeford
who completed the cross channel relayswim last August.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
|
| May 6 |
News - There are still some tickets available for Saturday's BBQ at the Beach
Hut cafe on Friars Cliff prom.
There can't be many better places for a BBQ, and the food will be good.
Either drop in to the cafe, or phone 01425 275378 to book.
I've just heard about a free concert on Christchurch Quay on Saturday 26 June.
The superb and very popular Swing Unlimited will be performing from 6:00pm to 9:00pm.
It's organised by the Women's Breast Care Fund, and hopes to raise funds
for the Tulip Appeal. Take a picnic, listen to terrific big band music,
and buy plenty of raffle tickets to help an essential cause.
(Prizes will include flat screen tv, laptop, cases of wine, etc.)
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
Plan changed to show expansion of Fergusson's House Clearance shop into the old computer repair shop at Sea Corner.
|
| May 5 |
News - There is a new telephone scam in which the caller gives his name and
says he is from Dorset Police.
The Homewatch team have produced this file, giving the details. I recommned that eveyone reads it.
If you have any problems with the file, email me and I will publish it
in full.
There is a presentation coming up on Wednesday May 26 (10 am - 1 pm) that may be of interest.
Age Concern (with Christchurch and Dorset Councils' Adult and Community
Services) will explain benefits available to over 60s, and how to complete
attendance allowance forms.
Places are limited, so please book by phone 01202 488311, or e-mail ageconcernchristchurch@googlemail.com
If you need a reminder, here is a copy of the flyer about.
The local businessman who owns the Cliffhanger Cafe and Highcliffe Castle Tearooms has just opened another venture. Milton Barns in Gore Road (which was a run down pub) has been completely refurbished, and now includes 9 rooms of accommodation, as well as serving breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and offering a function facility for up to 150 people.
Evening dining will also be on offer within a few days.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
|
| April 29 |
News - The May Bank Holiday is this weekend, so as usual the weather forecast
is for wet and cold. (Although of course it's never anything but sunny
and warm in Highcliffe.)
There's a couple of indoor events however. The Galleon has a three day beer festival, with not only lots of quality ales and beers, but entertainment as well.
The Highcliffe Junior Choir has a May Fair on Saturday morning from 10:00 until 12:00. It's at the Methodist Church Hall, and there are lots of stalls, refreshments, and musical interludes. It's only 30 pence entry.
Outdoors, the Castle has May Day Fun from 11:00am until 4:00pm. For kids of all ages, it's organised and presented by Bournemouth & Poole College.
The date of this year's Highcliffe Carnival will be Saturday December 11. The theme will be The 12 Days of Christmas which should give plenty of scope for both adults and children.
Start planning now - it will be on us before you know it.
Since the reorganisation of Council services, several contact numbers have
changed.
The current list is here.
A couple of dates you might want to note for later in May are:
Christchurch Food & Drink Festival is from Friday 7 to Sunday 16.
The International Food market is on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9.
Hinton Admiral Gardens are open Saturday 15 and Sunday 16. (Only a once
a year event.)
The Christchurch Community Celebration this year is on Saturday 29.
All of the above are listed in What's On, with links to more details.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
CBC Numbers file updated.
|
| April 26 |
News - Yesterday's official opening of the High5 project want extremely well,
apart from the erection of the marquee - which took much longer than anticipated.
But everything was in place for Mayor David Flagg to perform the opening
ribbon cutting, aided by some of the many children who attended.
(As always - click for bigger pictures.)
The event was also attended by many worthy folk from local politics and
councils. Ex Member of Parliament (and candidate in the forthcoming May
6 elections) Christopher Chope, and Leader of CBC, Alan Griffiths were
there. I also saw most (but not all) of our local councillors.
There were also representatives of all the various organisations and council departments (both local and county) who have been involved in getting this brilliant asset up and running. This included Chairman of Highcliffe Residents Association John Mather, and most of the Executive Committee, without whom this project would never have been even started, much less driven through.
For most of the boys there it is safe to assume that the star attendees
were Bournemouth football stars Danny Holland and Josh McQuoid, who looked
remarkably fresh, considering their promotion to Division 2 of the Football
League on Saturday afternoon, and the inevitable celebration that ensued.
Danny told me he was particularly looking forward to playing Southampton
next season.
Here's Danny and Josh with some staff and pupils from the Rainbow Pre-School.
There have been some interesting publications coming out of Christchurch
Borough Council over the past week or so. (Click the titles to see the
documents.)
A draft version of the Christchurch Locality Commissioning Plan 2010 - 2014 makes in depth proposals for provision of NHS services in the Borough
for the next four years.
Speeding in Christchurch Harbour explains how the Council's new patrol boat is helping to catch irresponsible boat users in local waters, and even names some of those taken to court.
Christchurch election candidates announced is self explanatory
There was also to be a meeting about the provision of hundreds of new homes
in the Borough, mostly on the fields between the railway line and the A35
(where Stewarts used to have their Maize maze) but the Christchurch Urban
Extension Advisory Group meeting due to be held on April 27 (tomorrow).
This is being rescheduled.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
Plan updated.
|
| April 22 |
News - Vandals have been at work on the new seat and table in the Castle grounds.
Carved from a 200 year old Monterey Cypressus Macrocarpo that was felled in March, the table top has be removed repeatedly from its supports.
Once again, awfully sensible behaviour from a very small number of people with IQs smaller than their ages.
(Click for bigger picture.
Thanks again to Stan L-B for the photo.)
The majority of our youngsters will hopefully be making good use of the
High 5 facilities in the Recreation Ground.
The official opening on Sunday next (at 1:00pm) will be attended by Bournemouth
football stars Danny Holland and Josh McQuoid. (Danny also supported Highcliffe's
Peoples Millions campaign a while back.)
Changes -
|
| April 21 |
News -The St George's Day concert next Saturday organised by The Friends of
St Marks has had to be cancelled.
Changes -
|
| April 19 |
News - Next weekend sees a couple of events in the village that may be of interest.
On Saturday evening there is a St George's Day Concert from the Christchurch & Highcliffe Band.
Organised by The Friends of St Marks at St Marks Church in Hinton Wood
Avenue, the entry price includes not only refreshments, but a flag as well.
It starts at 7:30pm.
On Sunday from Noon until 2:00pm, there is a fun event in the Recreation
Ground to mark the opening of the High 5 kids project. There is a marquee,
food, entertainment, and competitions.
The official opening ceremony is at 1:00pm. See the poster all about it here.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
Home Watch page updated with latest report.
|
| April 14 |
News - The Police Homewatch Coordinator has sent a poster for car owmers, as there is a major problem at present with cars parked in car parks while owners go for walks. It is happening across the county.
The poster says "I have left no valuables in my vehicle" and you can get a copy right here.
The official opening of the HIGH5 project in the recreation ground is confirmed
for 1:00pm on Sunday 25 April.
The whole event runs from Noon until 2:00pm, with food and music (and a
large marquee - just in case it rains).
There's a course coming up in May (in Ferndown) which will teach kids in
manual wheelchairs the skills they need to become more independent.
It's also a chance to meet other children and have some fun. (This is the
course that taught tv presenter Adepitan his skills.)
All the details are on this poster.
There was police action in Seafield Road on Sunday afternoon, which involved
a couple of police cars, and had some youngsters in handcuffs after their
van was stopped. Later police dogs were sniffing around the area as well.
It was a stop and search of suspicious characters, and while no arrestable
offences were found, the officers are confident that the action probably
prevented burglaries taking place.
Changes -
Latest Methodist Church newsletter added to their page.
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
|
| April 9 |
News - Hot news about the market, which was supposed to be reopening today.
The market company(Prod Grow Markets) contacted me today to explain why
it didn't happen.
All the traders were booked and ready to open, including several new local
food producers and traders.
At the last minute, the Globe management announced to Prod Grow that as
they now have planning permission for their motel building, the market
can no longer use their car park.
This was after the re-opening announcement had already appeared in last weeks press, leaving the traders with stock (including fresh produce) and nowhere to sell it.
Prod Grow are also out of pocket, having organised the whole thing, including the advertising.
Their spokesperson described the situation as gutting, and very very frustrating.
They now need a replacement site in Highcliffe as a matter of urgency,
before the traders all find other outlets for their goods.
Anyone with any good ideas should contact Prod Grow on 023 8069 3245 or email info@prodgrowevents.co.uk
(It seems to me that the Globe - or their Whitbreads bosses at least -
are not in the slightest bit concerned about the neighbourhood in which
they operate.)
Changes -
|
| April 8 |
News - There's a bit of a mini crime wave locally at present, with thefts from
Toby Carvery (x 2), the Shell petrol station, Sainsburys, and properties
in Field Way and Avon Run Road.
Several of these were thefts of wallets and handbags, so please take care
when out and about.
Highcliffe Market is back after its Winter break. It starts again this
Friday with old favourites and some new stall holders. It's back in the
Globe car park as before.
Changes -
Pictures page has some photos added - taken by a coupel I met recently at Friars Cliff.
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
Home Watch page updated with latest report.
|
| April 6 |
News - A new club has been formed for widowers in the Borough.
So, if you have been bereaved and feel you would benefit from membership of such a club, they would be delighted to hear from you.
The first meeting is on Monday, 12th April 2010 at 10:30 a.m. to 12.30
p.m. at Christchurch Baptist Church Hall.
This will be followed by weekly meetings at the same time and place.
Call Chris Williams, Community Leader, POPP ( Partnership for Older People
Project) on 07760 762280
There's a couple of other events coming up which might be of interest.
The first is especially relevant given today's news.
Christchurch's UKIP candidate, David Williams, is holding an informal meeting
at St Marks Church Hall, at 7pm on Friday 23rd April. It is an opportunity
for people to meet him, and he will be answering questions from those present.
(If any other parties are planning local meetings in the run up to the election, feel free to let me know.
Equal prominence will be given to all.
Local singer Sophie Rhodes (who has a terrific voice) is performing locally
a couple of times in the coming weeks. The first gig is at the newly refurbished
Lamb Inn at Winkton on Sunday 18 April at 1:45pm.
See What's On for other opportunities.
The Chairman of the Association of Dorset Watch groups has secured a large
amount of money from the Acquisitive Crime Campaign (this is the "Proceeds
of Crime Fund") to discount professional burglar alarms for installation
in domestic or commercial properties.
Their web site has details of the offer www.nhwdorset.org.uk
Although this offer was for East Dorset residents only, the Chairman now
has permission to extend the offer to Christchurch residents.
(I quite like the idea of criminals paying for our burglar alarms.)
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
|
| April 1 |
News - Further to the report yesterday about the telephone/computer scam.
A local computer support company has said that they have many customers
who have been contacted, and have been investigating the company involved,
which is based in Birmingham. (That accounts for the Indian sub continent
accent I guess.)
I quote:
"I got a customer them to telephone while I was there. They ask you to do certain things to the computer, which actually stops the computer from working after you follow their steps.
They then will fix it for a fee.
They have been reported to the police and they are aware of this, but actually
they told us that there is nothing they can do about it.
My concern is that they had ex directory telephone numbers or people and
all ready had many details about the customers.
After we spoke with the company they told us that they had obtained the
details about the customers from the local electoral role...amazing. And
then the police say that they are doing nothing wrong, as one of the first
thing they say to the customer isto ask if they can they have permission
to access the computer, which most of the people give, and by doing so
they are then doing no wrong."
I find this astonishing. At the very least these people are guilty of deception,
and I would have thought probably fraud.
How is it possible that they are not doing anything illegal? Yet another
example of British legal system bending over backwards to help criminals
of all kinds, while not caring for victims in the slightest.
The Police helicopter that was in action over the Hoburne/A35 area last
night was after a couple of suspicious males seen on the Roeshot allotments.
One male was arrested for going equipped for theft, after being found in possession of bolt croppers and a crowbar. Enquiries are ongoing.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
|
| March 31 |
News - There is a serious scam being attempted at present.
People are receiving unsolicited telephone calls from a person (believed
to be from the Indian sub continent) who is purporting to be from Microsoft,
although sometimes they don't say this.
The common theme of the calls is that they are saying that there is a problem
with your computer, and that they can fix it remotely with access to your
computer.
There are two threats here.
One is that the caller will try to coax the consumer to give credit card details for a nominal sum to "fix" an urgent problem with their PC. They then go on to use (or sell) the card details online.
The other threat is:
They talk the consumer into typing in commands on their PC which will give
the caller remote access to it, and thus the opportunity to steal personal
information at a later date.
This is a genuine threat and should be treated as any other cold call.
A Monterey Cypressus Macrocarpo that had graced the woodlands of Highcliffe
Mansion for almost two hundred years has sadly come to the end of it's
natural life, But it will live on as an eight - ten seater bench of repose.
The tree was located near the green at the top of the ZigZag path (as is
the bench).
Felling and artistic sculpture work was carried out by a team of three arborists - 'Treetech of Christchurch' with the work completed for the Easter Holiday.
The tree trunk was about a hundred feet high had a girth of about four
feet. It will give much pleasure to many for years to come.
(The team takes a tea break. Click the pics for bigger version.)
(The finished article.)
Thanks once again to our roving reporter Stan L-B.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
Home Watch page updated with latest report.
|
| March 29 |
News - Reference my question about the Coastguards on Steamer Point beach last
week.
Regular contributor Stan L-B reports that it was a cliff rescue exercise.
They had a "victim" suspended on a rope half way down the cliff,
and the rest of the team was "saving" him.
(The team debriefing. Click the pic for bigger version.)
Another training exercise this morning (Monday) had people being rescued from the sea at Steamer Point by teams of coast guards.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
|
| March 25 |
News - Does anyone know why the Coastguard vehicle was on the beach below Steamer
Point this morning?
It had it's lights flashing, but by the time I reached the beach it was
driving away towards Highcliffe.
Talking about the same stretch of beach - there is a beach clean this coming
Sunday (March 28).
Meet at 10:30am at the bottom of the ZigZag path.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
The Christchurch and Highcliffe band have changed their website address to christchurchandhighcliffeband.org.uk
Community links page (and Local organisations page) amended accordingly.
|
| March 20 |
News - It seems that rumours about problems with poisons being put down around
the Lakewood pond might have some foundation.
Three dogs have been taken ill, and have either had to be put down or have
died, all in a short period and after being walked around the pond.
RSPCA is investigating the deaths, and post mortems are taking place at a government laboratory at Winchester.
Priory Vets are at pains to say that the cause of the deaths is not known
at this stage, and that it is too early to come to any conclusion. They
are doing tests, and helping with the RSPCA investigation.
Needless to say, and speaking as a dog owner, I think that until it is
known what caused the deaths, the area should be avoided.
We all know that there are people who put down poisons, regardless of the
potential threat to both domestic animals and to wildlife. It often happens
around the beach huts at Friars Cliff and Avon Beach, and rumours have
been heard about other areas, including Lakewood Pond.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
|
| March 18 |
News - PC Justin Clarke, the current Safer Neighbourhood Officer for Highcliffe
& Walkford, is moving to live and work on the Isle of Wight. PCSO Mark
Lane will continue to work in Highcliffe, and the replacement officer will
be starting work soon.
Justin says that it's been a pleasure working here, and would like to thank
everyone who has helped keep Highcliffe safe.
Changes -
|
| March 17 |
News - The Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospital Public Governors are holding
a Constituency Health Talk on Thursday, March25, starting with coffee at
2 pm and followed by the presentation from 2.30 pm.
Dr Neil Hopkinson will talk about Arthritis, and there will be opportunity
to raise questions.
There will also be an opportunity to speak to local governors and learn
more about what they do.
Places for the event are limited and can be booked by telephone on 01202 704246, or by email to ftmembers@rbch.nhs.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
|
| March 15 |
News - BBC TV South Today tomorrow (Tuesday) will include an interview with
the Chairman of the Highcliffe & Mudeford Tourism Group, Bob Denney.
The subject will be the recession and its effect on local tourism, and
will be filmed at Bechcroft place in Lymington Road and at Milton Barns,
a new business in Gore Road - currently undergoing major refurbishment,
and now owned by the same person as The Cliffhanger and Highcliffe Castle
Tearooms. (Milton Barns includes 15 bed accommodation, in addition to the
food and functions you would expect.)
Jazz fans will be interested to hear that The Amberwood in Walkford now
has jazz just about every Tuesday evening.
The very popular Bernie Farrenden has added another monthly visit, and
The Cavalier Dixiemen are now playing on the fourth Tuesday of every month.
(See the pub's Events page.)
They will also be interested in another of the highly successful and popular
jazz nights organised to raise money for our local Citizens Advice Bureau.
It's on Sunday May 23, at Hoburne Bashley (in Sway Road), with doors opening
at 7:00pm.
Bernie Farrenden will be there with the Dave Shepherd Rhythm Section, and
featuring Nils Solberg on guitar.
Dave's quintet will also be performing, and featuring Roger Nobes on vibes.
Tickets are £14.50, available from Ros on 01425 628032.
Bar food will be available as usual.
Changes -
|
| March 12 |
News - The owner and administrator of the Highcliffe message board linked from
our front page has asked that the link be removed.
A combination of mis-use, lack of use, and the amount of spam that is created are given as the causes.
Yesterday afternoon at about 2:20 two youths were seen vandalising a bench
at Nea Meadows (well done boys - very bright!).
Anyone with any information - or even better - a couple of names is asked
to contact Dorset Police on 01202/01305 222222 or Crimestoppers anonymously
on 0800 555 111.
The official opening of the HIGH 5 project in the Recreation Ground is
now set for Sunday April 25, 12 Noon - 2:00pm. There will be a cash prize
for the lucky youngster who wins the basket shooting contest. It is also
hoped there will be a lot more going on, including a barbeque.
Changes -
|
| March 10 |
News - The new OLÉ Bilingual Preschool at the Scout Hut in Chewton Common Road is also introducing a Parent and Toddler session on Friday 26 March. It costs £4, and includes drinks and snacks, and runs from 1- 3 pm. The first session is a Easter Egg Hunt, with a visit from the Easter Bunny. See all about it here.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
Home Watch page updated with latest report.
|
| March 9 |
News - Highcliffe residents Martin and Carolyn Roberts recently received the
Barclays RTS Entrepreneur award for new local businesses (South and South
West region). Martin received the award from Christchurch MP Mr Christopher
Chope.
Their online business is run from Seaway Avenue, with an office in New
Milton.
You can see what they are all about at www.kidsandfamilycycles.co.uk.
Changes -
Residents Association page updated to include latest magazine.
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
|
| March 6 |
News - It is being reported that crime across the Borough of Christchurch has dropped by 14% since this time last year, and reported incidents of anti social behaviour have fallen over the last 4 months.
Studies show that the earlier children are introduced to other languages,
the easier they pick them up - which makes complete sense to me. Such children
also score higher on standardized tests such as Maths, English, and general
problem solving.
Other studies also show that being fluent in two languages will help to
keep the brain sharper for longer, so maybe I should have studied harder
at school.
With the above in mind, it is interesting to see that the only bilingual
preschool in Dorset is now open in Highcliffe.
The Olé Bilingual Preschool operates in the Scout Hut in Chewton Common Road, and they are currently offering a free trail session. To take advantage, or to find out more, see this page.
Changes -
Schools page has the above school added.
|
| March 4 |
News - Super talented local singing duo The Songbirds are performing TONIGHT at the East Close Hotel from 7:30pm.
Many locals will remember that the East Close used to be a great music
venue, and it seems that they are relauching regular music there again,
starting with Thursday nights being LIVE night.
While on the subject of The Songbirds. BAY Radio are taking an interest in them, and are interviewing them before tonight's gig.
Highcliffe Rotary Club would like to thank everyone who supported them by contributing to their collection at Sainsburys on Saturday 20 February. The collection in aid of the 'Thanks for Life-End Polio Now Campaign' raised £347.45, and through an arrangement with the Bill Gates Foundation this amount will be matched by them.
The Foundation has offered $200,000,000 provided Rotary worldwide raises
a similar sum.This project has been running for 25 years and polio is now
only endemic in 4 countries, where strenuous efforts are being made to
eradicate it, but vigilance in others countries particularly in Africa
is needed to avoid further outbreaks.
The HIGH 5 project is continuing apace, with completion due on March 11.
Due to the recent bad weather the grass areas have suffered, but should recover in time for the planned official opening during the weekend of March 27/28.
What is actually happening at the ceremony hasn't yet been decided, but
it is hoped there will be plenty of kids activities, and that the Bournemouth
footballers who supported the Peoples Millions effort will also be there.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
|
| February 22 |
News - Some moron in Highcliffe is shooting an air rifle at animals, including
pets. One recent incident was in The Meadway, where someone's cat was shot.
The teachers at the MCA (Marine & Coastguard Agency) were showing their
students how to correctly fire flares this afternoon at Steamer Point,
and making walkers and dogs jump three feet in the air at the same time
(me included).
If you saw or heard rockets this afternoon, that's what it was, rather
than any kind of emergency.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
|
| February 17 |
News - Sophie Rhodes, a very talented local singer (and a member of the Junior
Choir until 2002) is no longer part of Indian Summer.
Sophie is now performing solo, or with an acoustic guitarist. Take a listen at http://www.myspace.com/indiansummeracousticduo
Sophie doesn't perform locally often, but she will take bookings for private
functions/weddings/etc.
It has been pointed out that my report on the new Castle steps did not
mention the guys who actually did the work. It should have done, especially
as they completed the job early, and in freezing horrible conditions.
Stan Laurenson-Batten has written a report on the construction, which I
found very interesting. With his permission I reproduce it here for anyone
interested (in Acrobat PDF format).
Cliff Facelift - Step By Step
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
Christchurch & New Forest National Trust group website added to Local organisations page.
|
| February 15 |
News - Starting today, CODA Music Therapy Centre in Chewton Farm Road has daily
musical activities for half term.
These popular events fill up quickly, so get on the phone right now - 01425
276161.
More details on What's On, and the CODA website.
I've just heard about an elderly lady who fell and injured herself while
walking on the paths below the cliff just along from the Castle in the
recent bad weather. She was feeling very faint and sick.
She was found by a resident from Wharncliffe Road who was out jogging,
who called an ambulance, and ran up and got Castle staff to help with blankets
etc.
The same resident had to run back up to the Castle again, to eventually
guide the ambulance to Crow's Nest (near The Cliffhanger) where they could
get down to the injured lady.
The real point of the story is that despite the bad weather the lady was
laying for 1.5 hours before finally being taken to A&E in the ambulance,
where they discovered both wrists broken in several places.
-----------------------
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
Highcliffe Community Association now has it's own website - added to Community links and to Local organisations page.
Highcliffe company Architectural Solutions, designers of several attractive local buildings, added to Architectural page (a new page added to Business links).
|
| February 11 |
News - The new steps down to Castle Beach from Highcliffe Castle clifftop were
officially opened this morning by the Mayor, Councillor David Flagg.
One or two braved the cold for the photos without overcoats, including
the Mayor.
 (Click the pic for bigger version.)
Here is the official press release.
---------------------------
The Mayor of Christchurch, Cllr David Flagg was joined by ward councillors and representatives of local residents’ associations to officially open the newly-revamped Highcliffe Castle beach steps.
Four new flights of wooden staircases have replaced worn sections. The top two sections, previously wooden staircases, were replaced with new like-for-like flights.
The middle section, previously a zigzag made up of a mix of wooden and concrete steps of varying widths, was replaced with an all-wooden staircase to match the top sections. The new middle staircase now leads directly on from a landing adjoining the top sections in a straight line down the cliff, eventually reaching the beach by a new shorter flight.
The Mayor said: “These new steps will not only be safer than the old ones, which were becoming costly to maintain, but they will also give a much shorter and quicker route to and from the beach now that the zigzag section has been removed.”
Joining the Mayor for the opening ceremony were ward councillors Cllr John Lofts and Cllr Myra Mawbey, council officers and representatives of Highcliffe Residents’ Association and Rothesay Drive Residents’ Association.
-----------------------
Changes -
What's On - New events added
Latest newsletter added to Methodist Church page
|
| February 10 |
News - Some well established Highcliffe businesses are now helping to keep
this website going. I'm sure you'll join with me is supporting local companies
whenever possible. Why not take a look at their websites?
Copies of the full size version of the superb photo of Highcliffe Castle and surrounds linked from the front page is available from the Daily Echo. Many thanks to them for allowing me to use it.
Visit www.bournemouthecho.co.uk to purchase your copy.
Changes -
New front page added.
|
| February 9 |
News - Highcliffe Rotary Club would like to thank all those who supported their street collection last Saturday which raised £350.
This will be donated to Shelterbox, who provide the Tents and other Emergency Equipment for the tented villages you will have seen on news reports from Haiti.
For more information, and their reports from Haiti, please see their web site www.shelterbox.org
where you also donate if you missed Saturday's collection.
Changes -
Local Builders page added.
Solicitors page changed to show new address and links for Aldridge Brownlee in Lymington Road.
Plan changed to show various new and moved businesses.
|
| February 8 |
News - The new steps from Highcliffe Castle down to the beach will be officially
opened on Thursday (11 Feb) by the Mayor, Councillor David Flagg, at 11:15am.
The steps are already in use, and the ceremony is going to be little more
than a low key photo opportunity.
There are currently temporary traffic lights for road works outside of
the Lord Bute Hotel in Lymington Road.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
|
| February 4 |
News - Highcliffe's young footballer Megan Smith is a rising star. At only
12 years old YATA (The Young Athletes Training Academy) is listing her
as One To Watch - a future star.
http://www.yatasports.com/wp-content/uploads/Slide13.JPG
Unsurprisingly, Megan was among the prize winners at last Friday's Christchurch
Schools Sports Awards ceremony, and I hope to have the full list of Highcliffe
winners very soon.
I notice that Highcliffe's AllNew Conservatories are currently running special offers for anyone considering a new conservatory. See the Conservatories page.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
|
| February 1 |
News - Highcliffe Castle reopens today (11:00am - 5:00pm) and one of the first exhibitions - starting tomorrow - is The Highcliffe Millennium Project -Ten Years On - A Multimedia Exhibition.
This is an illustrated history of Highcliffe-on-Sea crafted by local people,
and sponsored by Highcliffe Rotary Club.
It's in the Drawing Room Gallery, and has to be worth a visit.
Work is scheduled to start on the HIGH5 project at Highcliffe Recreation Ground on Monday, February 15.
The existing play area will not be affected and will remain open for continued
use.
Contractors - locally based Sutcliffe Play (South West) - will be on site
for 3 or 4 weeks and will complete the work in readiness for an end of
March / beginning of April opening.
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
Home Watch page updated with latest report.
St Marks Church page amended to remove info about St Michael and All Angels Church at Hinton. (It now comes under Bransgore, rather than Highcliffe.)
St Marks website added to Community links page.
|
| January 30 |
News - An elderly gentleman from Beacon Drive was knocked down this morning
while crossing Wharnecliffe Road.
The gentleman, who was using a walking frame, was struck by an elderly
female driver, and sustained serious injuries, which required the calling
of the air ambulance.
Wharnecliffe Road was still closed this afternoon, and several Police vehicles
were still in attentance.
|
| January 27 |
News - The Highcliffe Charities organisation are sometimes able to help local people whose circumstances, either short or long term, might justify a grant by the trustees. If you know of such a person, whu not have a word with them.
Contact details and a full description of the group can be seen on the Highcliffe Charities page.
Changes -
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| January 26 |
News - The new Highcliffe Castle steps down to the beach are now open, several
weeks ahead of the planned date of mid-February. Very smart they are to.
Despite having taken out the old zig-zag shape, and the increased steepness, they are much safer than the old ones.
(Click the pic for bigger version. Thanks to StanL-B for the photo.)
Music lovers may well be interested in a concert in a couple of weeks time.
Entertaining Queen Victoria is a recital by highly regarded Amanda Pitt, accompanied by David Owen Norris.
Amanda was a member of the Highcliffe Junior Choir for 11 years, and after graduating from the Royal Academy of Music, has made a career as a singer, travelling extensively to perform and make recordings. David Owen Norris is a well-known broadcaster, conductor, pianist and composer.
An interesting new pre school has opened in Highcliffe, at the Scout Hut
In Chewton Common Road.
The Ole Bilingual Preschool offers more than just childcare, they offer bilingual education in English
and Spanish to children age 2 to 5 years old (the very best time to start
learning other languages.)
Telephone 01202 772030 for more information, or visit www.olespanishschool.co.uk
Changes -
What's On - New events added, old events removed.
Home Watch page updated with latest report.
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| January 19 |
News - Highcliffe's Friday market will be back regularly in April. When I have
the exact date, I'll add it here.
Changes -
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