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Poole Heart Support Group Magazine Summer 2010
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here to helpAffiliated to the British Heart Foundation and
Arrhythmia Alliance - The Heart Rhythm Charity
£2Free to
members
MagazineSummer 2010
Page 2
POOLE HEART SUPPORT GROUPHead Office: Poole Community Health Centre
Shaftesbury Road, Poole BH15 2NT
Telephone: 01202 683363 ext. 133
Telephone manned Mondays and Thursdays: 1.30-3.30pm
Web site address: www.poolehsg.org.uk
PRESIDENT Dr. A.A MCLEOD
V. PRESIDENTS: ROBERT PAYNE, MAGGIE RICHARDSON,
JIM WAINE, GEOFFREY WALKER OBE JP RGN, Dr. DIANE BRUCE MB Bsc.Hons FRCP.
PHSG COMMITTEEKEITH MATTHEWS Chairman [email protected] 01202 855001
DAVID ANDERSON Secretary [email protected] 01202 697376
RITA HOLMES Treasurer [email protected] 01202 743960
ROBIN PRINGLE Exercise Coordinator [email protected] 01202 884250
ALAN BRISTOW Magazine Editor/Liaison [email protected] 01202 694886
GARY LEE Social Secretary [email protected] 01202 722814
JAN MESHER Office [email protected] 01202 250108
PAM BAILEY BHF Rep. 01202 574944
DON BAILEY Member 01202 574944
GEORGE WILKINSON Member 01202 740374
IRIS ROETHKE BHF Rep [email protected] 01202 258227
ROGER RIDOUT Purbeck Member [email protected] 01929 423079
DOREEN TOBITT Member [email protected] 01202 670137
ALAN JEFFRIES Ad. Manager [email protected] 01202 680651
If you know a member who is ill, please tell us by contacting Mavis Terry,
Welfare Support, on 01202 874760
OTHER CONTACTSJIM WAINE Founder and Vice President [email protected] 01202 871532
MAX SMITH Website [email protected] 01202 676601
DEREK POPE Database [email protected] 01202 889070
DAVID LLOYD Publicity [email protected] 01202 697179
GEORGE O’LEARY PHSG Shirts [email protected] 01202 743978
GERRY WRIGHT Special Events [email protected] 01929 421864
CYRIL MARTIN Walking Group 01202 733956
Please send magazine articles to:
Alan Bristow, 60 West Way, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 9LS
or by e-mail to : [email protected] Tel. 01202 694886
Magazines are published 1st March, 1st June, 1st September and 1st December.
Last date for articles to Editor is 10th day of month before publication.
Dates for your Diary — Meetings and Social Events – Please see page 18
Chairman’s Letter
Page 3
In this issue you will find your renewal slip for your
membership of PHSG. I’m sorry, but it comes around
every year! I’d like to make a particular plea that you
take the form and fill it in right now as it makes life so
very much easier for everybody if you do. Each year
we find we always have a number of renewals
coming in months after the due date and the
membership people tear their hair out and that’s not
good for the heart ! Don’t forget that you will not be
allowed to exercise and won’t receive a magazine if
you don’t renew.
At the risk of labouring the point, could I also ask that when you do send
in the form you please take care to make any corrections to the
information, including your email address and exercise venue(s) used,
and as email addresses are so specific, write them out clearly and BIG.
This year we will issue a permanent membership card on joining rather
than one every year. Everybody will get one of these this year. This will
save a lot of administration, and frankly, the number of times a
membership card needs to be produced is so small that it shouldn’t be an
issue.
PHSG exists to support rehabilitation and most of you will know that we
had to step in recently financially to help the hospital programme. We’d
rather that this had not cost us anything, but we decided that the need
was urgent. The programme is saved at least for this year and its nice to
know that our effort was appreciated, for which see the communication
from the Rehab team on page 6. Keith
Bournemouth Bay 5K British Heart Foundation WalkA big thanks to all those who took part in the 5K walk pier to pier on
the 28th March; a huge £622.50 raised for the British Heart
Foundation ! There were about 30 PHSG members who took part
and luckily the weather was kind to us, even though rain was
forecast, everyone finished in under an hour and a huge number of
jelly babies were eaten during the walk !
Well done to those who took part and I look forward to even more
members joining in next year !
Thanks Emma Cardiac Rehab Exercise Instructor
Cardiology News from PooleHospital NHS Foundation Trust
Page 4
Dear Friends,I hope that you are all well and looking forward to the
summer, which after this last winter will hopefully be
hot and sunny.
I would firstly like to say thank you for inviting me to
your annual general meeting and allowing me to give
a presentation. It was really good to meet so many of
you again and to see that you were all pictures of
health! It was a very nice evening and I now am the
proud owner of a T shirt with the Poole Heart Support
Group Logo on.
As you will be aware from watching TV, the NHS is in some financial difficulties at
the moment and Poole will not be exempt. We will see some difficult times ahead
over the next several months and that will present a challenge to us all. We will
however always strive to ensure that the highest standards of patient care are
maintained and I will keep you abreast of all that is happening as and when I can.
In cardiology we are doing very well and meeting all of our targets and the pacemaker
service is going from strength to strength. We are expanding our medical
investigations day service unit from the 10th May and taking on more work from the
hospital, which will mean so many more patients can be seen as a day case. Patients
can be given a wide variety of treatments without having to come in overnight. This
is an excellent service and we hope to undertake some cardiac work there too.
We have had our presentation from the university for our achievement of Practice
Development Status and are now embarking on an exciting new initiative, together
with our quality service group, called ‘Back to the Future’. It is taking the best of old
style nursing and translating it into the 21st century, based on the teachings of
Florence Nightingale. As you know, she was the founder of modern nursing and we
will be using extracts from her notes on nursing, 1859, as a basis for the work we
will be doing. All of this is aimed at excellence in care and meeting the dignity and
respect agenda we all strive to achieve. We will be adopting a medical ward and
working with the staff so that through reflection and discussion they can understand
fully what it is like to be a patient or relative. Also our quality group members will get
to know the problems faced every day by the staff. We will use this mutual working
together to change practice if needed, to ensure we do the very best we can for our
clients and patients. If successful it will be rolled out throughout medicine and
eventually hopefully the whole hospital. It is exciting ground breaking work and we
have a motto for this, ‘Together we can make a difference’!
I will keep you up to date on how we are doing and you will also hear about it from
your representatives on the group. All that remains now is for me to say take care
over the summer and look forward to speaking to you all again soon.
Geoffrey Walker OBE JP RGN
Matron Cardiology and Medicine. Poole Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.
Page 5
Heart News with Dr. Christopher BoosDear All
Saturday 8th May was the first European Heart
Failure Awareness day. This was organised by the
Heart Failure Association (HFA) of the European
Society of Cardiology. The intention was to
highlight, to the public, the huge problem of heart
failure, its associated symptoms and emphasize
the importance of prompt diagnosis.
National heart failure societies, such as the British Society of Heart Failure,
were invited to organise local programmes. Over 20 countries participated
in the project and included Austria, the Czech Republic, Belgium, Bulgaria,
Estonia, France, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Israel, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway,
Portugal, the Russian Federation, Serbia, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden and the
UK.
So what exactly is heart failure? It is a condition in which the heart has lost
the ability to pump enough blood to the body’s tissues. With too little blood
being delivered, the organs and other tissues do not receive enough oxygen
and nutrients to function properly. Symptoms include breathlessness (usually
with exercise and often on lying flat), ankle swelling and fatigue.
At present heart failure management consumes 2% of the NHS budget. It is
an important condition as it impacts on patient’s quality of life and potentially
on their survival. Furthermore both the incidence and prevalence of heart
failure is increasing. This largely relates to the presence of an ageing
population in the UK, coupled with the improved survival of patients with
cardiovascular disease. Heart failure management and treatment has
progressed considerably over the last 10-15 years. Important strategies
include the presence of community heart failure nurses, improved heart failure
related education, increased access to cardiac rehabilitation along with
advances in medical therapy. Furthermore, the last 10 years has witnessed
a significant increase in device related therapy which has been shown to
improve survival among the subset of indicated heart failure patients. These
include the use of cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT, a special type of
heart pacemaker to help sequence the heart contraction) and the use of
implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs).
Page 6
22nd April 2010
Dear PHSG Members
I wanted to give a personal big thanks to all those that wrote in protest to the
PCT withdrawing funds for the Phase 3 service that we provide alongside
Poole Cardiac Unit at Canford School.
We have been running the community-based rehab on a Tuesday morning
for several years now, originally at Broadstone Leisure Centre and now at
Canford School. I have enjoyed every minute of the 8 week programmes we
provide to those patients, post cardiac event, that have been referred by
Poole Hospital. I know that those who complete the 8 weeks benefit greatly
from the experience and it would have been a great shame if the service
had been cancelled.
Thank you all for your support, we now have funding for another year;
Community Rehab couldn’t function without the nurses from the Cardiac
Unit, especially Linda, Fiona and Sarah so a big thanks from me to them!
Let’s hope the service continues for many years to come.
Emma Cardiac Rehab Exercise Instructor.
5th May 2010Robin Pringle,Exercise Co-ordinator,Poole Heart Support Group.Dear Robin,I am writing on behalf of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Department at PooleHospital to thank Poole Heart Support Group for their generous support incovering costs of the phase 3 programme at Canford School until the end ofJuly 2010.The Canford venue has made Cardiac Rehab much more accessible for manypatients who may not otherwise take up the exercise programme. The atten-dance rate is high due to the excellent facilities; patients also appreciate thewarmth and welcome they get from PHSG members when joining the phase4 sessions. As you know, the long term effects of cardiac rehabilitation re-duces hospital readmission and mortality so your support in helping us keepphase 3 going is much appreciated.Yours Sincerely,Linda Everett, Clinical Lead,Cardiac Rehabilitation Department, Poole Hospital.
NHSPoole HospitalNHS Foundation Trust
Longfleet Road, Poole
Dorset, BH15 2,113
Tel: 01202 665511
www.poolehos.org
Cardiac Rehab Dept. tel 442876
Page 7
Last year I ran the Great North Run in aid of theBritish Heart Foundation. This year brings a newchallenge: the Bournemouth Pier 2 Pier Swim. Thisentails donning a wetsuit to endure the 1.4 mile seaswim, a thought I am not overly enamoured with!
As you all know, the BHF continues to carry outlifesaving research, of which many of our membershave directly benefitted from. For this reason I havedecided to support the charity through various sporting endeavours.
If you would like to support my latest venture and the British Heart Foundation, pleasesponsor me by visiting the secure website:http://original.justgiving.com/jsweetlove
Many thanksJenni Sweetlove (Exercise Instructor)
Bournemouth Pier 2 Pier SwimSunday 27th June 2010
Page 8
PHSG Website News
Members are reminded that PHSG Magazines are available to view in colour
on the web site ( www.poolehsg.org.uk )
Just go to the home page and select which magazine you want to see.
Also, we have not received many computer problems via our problem forum
on the web site. Does this mean our members are computer experts and are
solving their own problems, or are they a little shy in writing in?
Maybe you have an interesting tip for members, or want to say something
about your own computing experience ?
There is no point in keeping the page active if no one has any problems for
which they are willing to ask our help, or wish to make any computing
comments.
So, please use it or lose it !
Max
What is the UK Anagram Society trying to say ?
Answer page 30
Page 9
Waist To Hip Ratio
Your health is not only affected by how much body fat you have, but also
by where most of the fat is located on your body. People who tend to gain
weight mostly in their hips and buttocks have roughly a pear body shape,
while people who tend to gain weight mostly in the abdomen have more of
an apple body shape.
Apples and Pears Research has shown that people with a lot of fat
stored in their tummy area (“apple” shaped people) are more likely to
develop heart disease than those who store fat round their bottom and
thighs (“pears”). It is possible to have a high BMI (Body Mass Index) and a
normal waist measurement if you are a fit, lean, muscular man. This is
why your waist to hip ratio is a better guide to your risk of heart disease.
As long as you avoid excess weight, being an apple shaped body or a
pear shaped body is just one of many factors to bear in mind. Even pear
shaped people should take particular care to keep their weight within
normal limits, to avoid the health problems associated with obesity.
Waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) is the ratio of the circumference of the waist to
that of the hips. It is calculated by measuring the smaller circumference of
the natural waist, usually just above the belly button, and dividing by the
hip circumference at its widest part of the buttocks or hip. The ratio is
applied both to women and men.
Waist circumference (cm) divided by Hip circumference = Waist to
Hip Ratio
The higher the ratio, the greater the risk of heart disease and strokes.
Current evidence is that a ratio less than 0.85 if you are a woman or 0.90
if you are a man is associated with a relatively low risk. If your ratio is
greater than 1.00 you are at significant risk. This fact seems to apply
whatever race you are, according to research in The Lancet (4/11/05).
JENNI SWEETLOVE Cardiac Rehab Exercise Instructor
BHF- Beating Heart Disease Together
Do you know someone who would benefit from getting their own free
copies of Heart Health from the BHF?
Tell them to sign up to Heart Matters for free by calling 0300 3303300
Page 10
Book Review – PHSG members can order with 10%
discount at www.fastfacts.com by quoting coupon code
SP10 at checkout. Normal selling price £10.
Cardiology (second edition) By Colin Forfar, published
2009, 62 pages, 29 illustrations
Numerous developments in the prevention and treatment
of heart disease over the past few years have greatly
improved the outlook for patients with cardiac problems.
Understandably, patients may be bewildered and
daunted by information on ‘keyhole’ techniques,
sophisticated imaging procedures and the vast array of
effective drug treatments now available.This fully
updated second edition of Cardiology covers all of the
common heart disorders, procedures and treatments. Clear illustrations
accompanied by concise text are designed to help doctors and nurses explain
and simplify complex information to their patients. Improved communication
between healthcare professionals and patients will help to reduce some of the
confusion and anxiety that patients with heart problems often experience, and will
help them to make informed decisions about their future treatment.
Contents: Author’s preface; The heart and circulation; The heart as a pump; The
blood supply to the heart - the coronary arteries; The heart valves; Risk factors
for heart disease; Angina; Heart attack (myocardial infarction); Treating heart
attack (myocardial infarction); Recovery from, and prevention of, a heart attack;
Heart failure; Treating heart failure; Hypertension (high blood pressure); Sudden
changes in heart rhythm (arrhythmias); Bacterial endocarditis; Congenital heartdisease; Blackouts; Resuscitation; Treating heart disorders with drugs;Hospital visits for heart disorders; Examining the eyes; Testing theurine; The electrocardiogram (ECG); The chest X-ray; The exerciseECG; Visualizing the heart by ultrasound; Radionuclide scanning;Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI scan); Computerized tomography(CT scan); Cardiac catheterization (angiogram); Coronary angioplastyand coronary bypass surgery; Heart pacemakers; Specialist electricaltreatment; Cardioversion.
“...If you’d like to hear all of
your options again press 49.
If you’ve forgotten why you
called in the first place,
press 50.”
Page 11
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New Book Review – PHSG members can order
with10% discount at www.fastfacts.com by quoting
coupon code SP10 at checkout. Normal selling price
£10.The diagnosis and management of heart rhythm
abnormalities is often viewed as a complex and
inaccessible area of modern cardiology shrouded in
technical detail.
Fast Facts: Cardiac Arrhythmias, published May
2010 in paperback with 148 pages, demystifies the
subject with a straightforward approach to rhythm
abnormality, asking how the patient with arrhythmia
presents, how the problem should be investigated and
how the arrhythmia can be managed. Highlights
include:
* A concise explanation of the mechanisms of arrhythmias with clear well-annotated illustrations.
* A comprehensive review of presenting signs and symptoms, with key questionsto ask the patient.
* A logical approach to investigation. Practical information on managementoptions.
* Specific chapters on the different types of arrhythmiaThis highly readable handbook is an up-to-date practical resource for primaryhealthcare professionals, coronary care nurses, medical students and traineecardiologists - in fact, anyone who wants a better understanding of the commonarrhythmias and how best to manage them.
Page 12
18th February Talk by Dr. McLeod in the Postgraduate Lecture Theatre,Poole Hospital.
An audience of 49 members assembled in the lecture theatre to hear ourPresident, Dr. Andrew McLeod, give a comprehensive picture of the currentstate of things within the Cardiology Department at Poole.Before launching into the detail of his presentation Dr McLeod drew attentionto the fact that our Primary Care Trust was about to withdraw funding for“Rehabilitation in the Community,” in conflict with Government policy. This willaffect current Rehab classes held at Canford School. (PHSG committee wasaware of this and had already pledged financial support for 4 months, in thehope that the decision could be reversed). Dr McLeod urged everyone tolodge a protest and gave the addresses for this action.
The presentation was then given, based on the headings of ‘Personnel,’‘Facilities,’ ‘Tests,’ ‘Medication’ and ‘The future’.
The Personnel, led by the Consultants of the Cardiac team at Poole werementioned, with their particular specialisms. Dr McLeod himself, now part-time and not retired, as rumour had suggested, and Doctors, Diane Bruce,Kim Greaves (who is now a Professor), Christopher Boos, who also has amilitary commitment, and Catherine Blake who has joined the team recently.Each brings a special skill which adds to the excellence of the department asa whole. And of course the consultant team is so ably supported by the CardiacPhysiologists, the Clerical Staff, the CCU & Cranborne Nurses, and the CardiacRehabilitation team. Dr McLeod linked the people of the department to thefacilities that are currently available at Poole.
The Facilities include the state of the art Coronary Care Unit, (CCU), the CardiacPacing theatre, state of the art Echocardiography (both 3D & TOE), the largestStress Echocardiography capability in the UK and Cardiopulmonary Exercisetesting.
Under the heading of Ancillary Tests Dr McLeod continued with short films,which demonstrated the information provided by Angiography, MagnetoResonance Imaging (MRI), Echocardiography (both Stress & Trans-Oesophageal (TOE), Nuclear Perfusion Scanning, Implanted LoopRecording(ILR), and Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing, andElectrocardiography, (ECG static & exercising and 24/7 (Holter recording). Whilstdoing this he indicated the risks involved such as angiography being invasiveand can trigger heart attack & stroke, and the claustrophobic effect of MRI
scanning machines. TOE is relatively new and is not invasive and shows great
Page 13
promise for
future testing,
but the MRI &
Echocardiography
are good for
displaying the
d y n a m i c
m e c h a n i c a l
actions in the
h e a r t ,
a n g i o g r a m s
show the
physical state of
arteries. So each
type of testing
has its place in
the work of the
Cardiac department.
We are lucky in the Poole & Bournemouth area to have such an excellent
team of consultants and support staff, with such a range of state of the art
facilities. Bournemouth currently provide Angio-graphy & -plasty facilities
and other specialist electrical treatments, but in the future Poole could acquire
these functions too.
Dr McLeod went on to discuss Medication and the various drugs currently
used in the aftercare of heart patients. Lipid lowering, anti-anginal beta-
blockers & nitrates etc, blood pressure controllers, antithrombosis drugs
such as aspirin, and some of the side effects and alternatives for specific
drugs.
And finally there were the questions from the floor. Queries about super
beta-blockers, pacemakers, statins, artery closing techniques, tiredness
related to drugs, liaison between Bournemouth & Poole, stress, angina at
rest and other topics.
All were answered in an honest and open way by someone with one of the
best knowledge bases in the world.
Our thanks to Dr. McLeod for an extremely interesting talk with excellent
presentational back-up.
Gary Lee
PS. The reporter apologises for the totally inadequate report presented
above. Unfortunately his feeble brain was unable to record much of the
detailed information presented during the talk!
Page 14
18th March Talk given by Felicity Woodhead
Flowers of the Dorset Coast
At 7:15 the audience numbers were less than ten, the rain continued to falloutside, so it was good to have 14 people including the regular supportteam sat down at the start of the talk. Felicity had arrived and set up herprojector with the able assistance of her husband, a retired doctor, (Dr.Gee),from Wimborne. What a pity that the first meeting in spring was marred bysome very un-spring-like weather. But what followed was truly in keepingwith thoughts of spring.Felicity introduced herself as a botanist who has been involved with theDorset coast for many years. In fact she has produced a book as a result ofher field work entitled “Flora of the Christchurch Area”. The investigation &survey took some 12 years to complete and the book was published in 1993.(Copies of it and other items, pictures and postcards were available afterthe talk). The talk started at the western end of the Dorset coast with a slide showingthe Cobb at Lyme Regis, and progressed along the coast to the eastern endat Christchurch and Mudeford. At each spot of special interest Felicityproduced a photograph of the area and the various plants and their flowerswhich are to be found there. The nature of the soils were considered, thesandy cliffs in the west, the Chesil beach and its pebbles which are sizedaccording to location from small at the West Bay end to large at the Portlandend, the chalk cliffs from Weymouth to Swanage, and the sandy sectionfrom Poole to Christchurch. Also the age of the rocks and soils associatedwith each section, which started at around 60 million years at the west end,to a very young 10 thousand years old at the eastern end.But the main features of course were the wonderful flowers found at thevarious locations. The orchids, samphire, brassicas, rushes and many otherspecies, (sadly the reporter didn’t have the wit to take specific notes of thedetailed information!), some of them almost unique to Dorset and rare in theworld. The beautiful colouring and shapes of the flowers, the arrangementof leaf structures by which sub species are identified, all of these fascinatingdetails were pointed out by Felicity as she progressed through the talk. Someof the plants are only an inch tall so that among the grasses in which theygrow one has to search very carefully to actually see them, and of courseknow where you are likely to find them!All in all a fascinating talk which made some of us feel sad that we do notfind the time or are fit enough to make the most of the beauty that surroundsus in this lovely County of Dorset. I’m sure it would be worth inviting Felicityto return at a later date to tell us more from her wealth of knowledge.
With thanks to all who attended on such an uninviting evening – Gary Lee
Alan Bristow e-mail [email protected].
Jim Waine e-mail [email protected].
Page 15
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Contact Efficiency Solutions — Jeff on 01202 741881
The Practice Development Unit (PDU) Quality Service Group
PHSG has a voice on the group representing Heart Support Group members.
This exciting group, under the very capable chairmanship of Geoffrey Walker
OBE, Matron Cardiology and Medicine, really gets things done! Positive
changes are made to hospital procedures, as a result of patient feedback
given to PHSG patient representatives. All PHSG members can feed back
information to Poole Hospital in complete confidence about their treatment.
So if you want to say anything good or bad about your experience in Poole
Cardiac Unit, or its related departments, please forward your comments.
You can comment by e-mail, letter, telephone, or via the web-site. All
information will be treated in confidence. Looking forward to hearing from
you.
The four ages of man
Lager Aga
Saga Gaga
Page 16
15th April PHSG AGM 2010 held at the
Postgraduate Centre
Poole Hospital
The attendance at the meeting was recorded at 33, including 10
committee members, (2 of whom did not sit on the platform). The low
attendance was probably due to the competition, with the first ever
political leaders’ debate on TV that evening. Keith Matthews, chairman,
welcomed all and gave his report in which he summarised the
membership, which stands at about a thousand of which 610 were paid up
at that time. He then introduced all those who had been active in
supporting roles in the Group and finished with the hope that he had
mentioned all who have worked through the year to keep the group
vibrant. Individual reports were then given by certain members of the
committee. * Copies of these reports are available on request.
Treasurer, Rita Holmes, presented * the financial statement for the year.
Cash in hand is down, chiefly due to the payment of £1000 in support of
the continuance of the Rehab group in Canford Magna.
Exercise Co-ordinator, Robin Pringle, reported on * the 24 exercise
classes, which have a peak weekly attendance of about 380. The
financial status of the classes is back in a positive state after the raise in
charge to £2.50 per session. He expressed the Group’s thanks to our 6
lady trainers who keep things going so well. The situation that arose for
Emma and the rehab group has been resolved for the coming year,
thankfully and Jayne will be going on a BACR course in the near future.
Alan Bristow, (Magazine & Liaison), not only reported on the production of
the magazines and annual calendar, but also gave an account of the
liaison activity he has with certain health authority committees and the
Arrhythmia Alliance, and other Heart Support Group magazine editors.
The Office team activities were mentioned in a brief report from Jan
Mesher. Her support team members were delighted to be invited to the
most recent Escoffier luncheon, a reward for their conscientious work.
* Social Events were reported on by Gary Lee. A full year of talks and
other events were completed. Attendance at the 8 scheduled talks
averaged 18, affected by some serious bad weather, as was the “Treasure
Trail” in June. Other events included 2 Escoffier luncheons, Skittles, the
Plant & bric-a-brac sale which made £250, the rather noisy but successful
Christmas Dinner, and the excellent President’s address given by
Page 17
Dr. McLeod. Gary reported his disappointment with the poor response to
the proposed daytime meeting, which was to be cancelled.
The Walking Club was reported as thriving, with a full summer
programme about to start, and also the Cycling Club is still pedalling
furiously under the leadership of Keith Matthews.
Pam Bailey was unable to give a full report from BHF, but did request
support for the open day in support of BHF on May 8th in the grounds of
Charborough Park estate.
The meeting was adjourned for refreshments and then re-assembled for
the Election of officers & committee members. The standing officers and
committee were re-elected without objection. A vote of thanks was
proposed by a member of the audience and supported by all, (as far as
an observer could see!)
The re-elected Chairman, Keith Matthews, then invited Matron Geoffrey
Walker onto the platform to give a short presentation. Geoffrey
apologised for having to cancel his talk back in November, when he had
been called upon to attend the Queen’s pleasure for his medal, but went
on to say that what he was about to say was a summary of his talk
“Where have all the Carrots Gone?” He then proceeded to introduce his
new project, which is the Florence Nightingale approach to nursing,
which has been given full approval by the B&P Hospital trust. Against a
background of slides, Geoffrey enthused his commitment to bringing all
the old values of nursing care and attention back into the daily operation
of wards and care of patients. A copy of the slide information is to be
made available to PHSG. It was a fascinating presentation and GW
displayed the energy and conviction he is putting into the project. If all
goes well his prototype implementation at Poole will gradually be rolled
out across the NHS.
(May he be given all the power that his elbow needs, say I, the reporter)
The meeting was called to a close after some general discussion.
Reported by Annie Knowmas.
ONE LINERSShe was only a whisky maker, but he loved her still.
Atheism is a non-prophet organisation.
I wondered why the cricket ball kept getting bigger. Then it hit me.
Don’t join dangerous cults. Practise safe sects.
Borrow money from pessimists - they don’t expect it back.
Page 18
Future PHSG Meetings and Events
All events here are at Poole Hospital Postgraduate Centre –7.00pm for
7.30pm and will include raffle and refreshments.
June 17th “The Beauty of Stourhead” John HallettDorset National Trust Guide
Some of us remember the excellent talk that John Hallett gave us on
Kingston Lacy. Well, John returns to tell us about his third love, (after his
wife and KL that is), Stourhead. As a devotee of Dorset National Trust,
John is assured to give an equally good account of the history and detail
of the House and Gardens of Stourhead. Just the thing for a summer’s
evening.
July 15th “Trouble in Store” Paul CadyStore Detective
Mr Paul Cady comes along this evening to tell us of some of the intriguing
and hilarious things that a store detective can find himself involved with in
a working day. And the store can be full of wonderful inviting things too!
August 19th “In Search of Wedding Cake” Gary LeeRetired Electronics Engineer
I know that name I hear you cry. Yes it’s your social secretary who would
like to tell of the adventure he and his wife had when attending their son’s
wedding in the USA. The best made plans can go astray, but as is said,
all is well that ends well.
September 16th “Court in the Act?” John Slow
Courts Manager Retired
John Slow would probably say that managing the local courts gave him a
great insight into the ways of the world and its people. John wishes to
relate some of the interesting and funny things that happened while he
was in charge of things.
Page 19
Cardiology and Medicine PDU Presentation Day
5th MarchThe Practice Development Unit at Poole Hospital received accreditation
by Bournemouth University last summer. This is a form of Quality
Standard to recognise their joint efforts where several wards and groups,
including the Cardiac Rehabilitation Team, have worked at projects
designed to improve their performance to patients.
On the presentation day, Peter Harvey, Chairman of the Board of
Trustees, gave a short speech expressing his pleasure at the
achievement and then Geoffrey Walker, Modern Matron, who
spearheaded the project, gave a short talk on its various facets. Geoffrey
emphasised that the task had been particularly demanding in a unit where
80% of admissions are emergencies. Mrs Pat Smith, a relative
representative, gave a short talk on her experiences in the group. There
was then a presentation ceremony of Practice Development Status
plaques awarded by Anne Hemmingway on behalf of the University, and a
general photocall to round off the morning.
“Passionate About Caring” is the mission statement and keynote to come
out of this phase, but in common with all Quality Standards, there is no
standing still. The next phase is already headlined “Back to the Future” in
which the aim is to incorporate the best of the old-style nursing into the
new. Geoffrey quoted from Florence Nightingale’s book “Notes on
Nursing” by way of illustration. “Be careful when you bend over in your
crinolines, others can see what you cannot!”
KJM
Page 20
PHSG Cycling Club
Next ride dates are:27th June - Meet Wimborne Square - “Blandford and back”25th July - Meet 10 Hill View Road, Ferndown - “Randonnee Ci de Couer”22nd August - Meet Broadstone Leisure Centre - “To see the Sea”26th September - Meet Layby on B3078, north of Wimborne - “Cranborne Cruise”
Rides are about 15 miles long, they are open to all members of the PHSG
as long as your doctor approves. all starts at 10 a.m. For help, advice, weather
check and bike maintenance call Keith Matthews on 01202 855001
We don’t do RAIN!! If the
weather looks “iffy”, call
before 9:00am to see if the
ride is going ahead.
Organisers: David Anderson,
David Curtis, Keith Matthews
Regularly updated details on
www.poolehsg.org.uk and
www.bournemouthctc.org
Despite the poor early year weather,the PHSG cycle club has met eachmonth and enjoyed good outings. In March however there was a confusion about startpoints which resulted in three of our number going to a different layby. Red faces allround, apologies etc., etc. In the result though each group enjoyed their own 20 mile ride.
In April our ride coincided with the BHF ride from QE School so we did that insteadtaking the 25 mile option. That is, those of us that were not convalescing or going onholiday.Photo shows Alan Jeffries and me scooting along.
Keith
* * * *
Page 21
Wanted -Your old greetings cards/postcards/calendars and used postage
stamps. I share these between two charities – The M.S. Society and the
Hearing Dogs for the Deaf. Both these charities have written thanking PHSG
for the support we give them. It’s another way of recycling and at the same
time it makes money for two worthwhile causes.
DON’T BIN ‘EM – SAVE ‘EM! Also please DO NOT CUT THE STAMPS
OFF THE POSTCARDS. THE POSTCARD IS WORTH MORE THAN THE
USED STAMP.
The M.S. Society makes note pads from these cards. I have received from
them a receipt for £18.80 from the sale of mini notepads in December. Please
contact me at any of the monthly meetings, or at Canford School exercise
class each Monday and Thursday. Or phone George O’Leary on 01202
743978.
Something wanted? Something to sell?
Give the Editor a bell on 01202 694886.
FOR SALE AND WANTED
Wanted - Does anyone have a four drawer lockable filing cabinet they no
longer need? if so, we need one at PHSG Office to replace our existing worn
out model. If you can help please contact Jan Mesher Tel. 01202 250108
For Sale - PHSG Shirts. They are grey with our new logo (as on the front
cover of this magazine) on the left hand side breast pocket area.
The sizes are small, medium, large and extra large in the T-shirts, the Polo
shirts and now Sweatshirts. The T-shirts cost £6, the Polo £10 and the
Sweatshirts £12.
They will be on sale at each social meeting or event and also at Canford
School on Mondays and Thursdays. You can contact me, George O’Leary
on 01202 743978. email [email protected]
DEREK HITCHINGS – BUILDER88 Puddletown Crescent, Canford Heath, Poole, BH17 8AN
Tel: (01202) 250108 Mobile: 07763200452
Carpentry, Plastering, Plumbing, Tiling, Decorating.
All general building work.
Free estimates given for all sized jobs.
Page 22
CrosswordAcross1. Woven fabric from silk-like Material (7)5. Joint (5)8. Warming head item (7)9. Spanish for goodbye (5)10. See 6 down (9)12. No matter which (3)15. Affirmative (3)17. Blizzard (9)19. The Great wall of ..... (5)20. For: e.g. (7)22. One of the five senses (5)23. Very strong or intense (7)Down1. Made fine adjustment (7)2. Make stronger (7)3. Large flightless bird (3)4. Terrible (5)5. Indoor flowering bulb, popular at Christmas (9)6. and 10 across Pictured Pirates of the Caribbean actress (5, 9)7. Piece of writing (5)11. Friendly or formal greeting (9)13. Excited cry (7)14. Someone who hosts a show (7)
Answers page 30
15. Boat (5)16. ..... Guard : Vatican Soldiers (5)18. Very fat (5)21. Creation of works of beauty (3)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
8 9
10 11 12
13 14
15 16 17 18
19 20 21
22 23
Page 23
Dr No
Shattering health myths by turning ‘wisdom’ on its head
Make tiny changes to your diet – This can have a dramatic impact on your
health. It is estimated that 20,000 lives a year could be saved if Britons ate one
gram of salt fewer a day, an extra piece of fruit and less saturated fat. Here are
some more simple tweaks to boost your health.........
Don’t lie in - Changing your sleep pattern suddenly has a dramatic effect on the
part of the brain responsible for balancing hormones, which can trigger
headaches. You’re also likely to suffer caffeine withdrawal after sleeping through
your normal early morning cup of tea or coffee. Always try to stick to the same
schedule and if you’re tired, have a nap later in the day.
Eat the colours of the rainbow – The mantra of ‘five a day’ refers to variety as
much as quantity. In particular, you need to eat as varied colours as possible,
each colour representing different health-boosting antioxidants and nutrients that
work in synergy with each other.
For instance, vitamin C in fruit boosts the absorption of iron from any green leafy
vegetables such as spinach. Make sure you’re getting the full spectrum of
colours in your basket – think of traffic lights: something green, something
orange and something red.
Stand on one leg when you brush your teeth – This works the deep core
muscles in your abdomen, which protect your back. Many people never work
these deep muscles and this is a perfect opportunity to give them a short but
effective workout – it’s like sitting on an exercise ball at your desk. Try brushing
with one hand and standing on the opposite leg for one minute, then reverse.
The more variation, the better. (please take care not to fall over !)
Buy shoes at the end of the day – Feet swell continuously from the moment
you wake, due to heat and blood pooling with gravity, so buying them later
means you’re trying on shoes when your feet are biggest.
Ditch the bottled water – Everyone knows you should be drinking around two
litres of liquids a day, but despite what the bottled water companies tell us, that
can be almost any fluid. Soup, tea, coffee, even beer, literally anything except
spirits. And you’ll also be taking in fluid by getting your five-a-day fruit and
vegetables. I drink tea and coffee through the day and along with the occasional
fruit have the odd glass of wine. This obsession with constantly sipping water
baffles me.
Don’t rinse after brushing – Leave the basin the moment you’ve finished
brushing your teeth. Rinsing your mouth out with water washes away the
protective fluoride coating left by the toothpaste. Also avoid drinking any fluids
for at least half an hour after brushing your teeth. There’s plenty of moisture in
your mouth, without using extra water.
From a Retired Bee-keeper
Page 24
* * * * *
Give a little Wriggle if you want to lose weight; don’t
bother if you have no weight problem – you’re lucky !
Yes, what is in our jeans is controlled by our genes, for
some of us are (unfortunately) genetically more efficient
at storing energy in our fat stores. Many of us do have
a weight problem these days, and it is certainly a factor
for many heart conditions. What can we do ? A lot !
Have you still got the genes from a hunter/gatherer, eight thousand years ago?
There were times when food was plentiful, such as after killing an animal for
food, and times when it was scarce. When there is plenty it is essential to eat up
before the food gets far too rotten to eat – you need a good appetite. You store
fat in your buttocks etc., to see you through the “lean” times when food is scarce
– but fortunately food is no longer scarce in this country. Whilst actively chasing
an animal you do not want to feel hungry – and it has now been proved that
people do not feel as hungry after even light exercise (so called aerobic) as
they would staying still, even allowing for the calories burned during the exercise.
If you do not eat quite so much – you lose weight. Of course if you are able to do
heavy exercise you burn even more calories, and lose weight more quickly. It
seems that movement is one factor controlling appetite; if we keep moving we
will feel less hungry.
We all know that we should avoid, and what makes a healthy diet. Even avoiding
spices, and sauces, will help us to reduce portion size. Why have an appetizer
if you want to lose the appetite ?
So if you want to lose weight, give a little wriggle, and eat less !
Fortunately for me bees have no buttocks, or fat stores, so they have to store
food for the “lean” winter times in the form of honey. But did you know they too
wriggle, and dance ? If they have found a rich source of food they dance over
the honeycomb, wriggling all the time, in a figure of eight pattern. The alignment,
and shape, of this pattern indicates to their “pals” where there is a good source
of nectar to forage for honey. I like honey !
Page 25
Silver in the Hair
Gold in the Teeth
Stones in the Kidneys
Sugar in the Blood.
Lead in the Feet
Iron in the Arteries
And an inexhaustible supply of Natural Gas
I never thought I’d accumulate such
wealth.
Page 26
Lost in Translation
The following are all genuine attempts to translate from a foreign language
into English for the benefit of visiting English tourists.
Seen in foreign hotels –
Switzerland – We have nice bath and are very good in bed.
Iraq – No consummation whatever may take place in the foyer.
Italy – Suggestive views from every window.
Seoul – Choose between twin bed or marriage size – no King Kong.
Italy – If service is required give two strokes to the maid and three to the
waiter.
Serbia - If set breaks, inform manager. Do not interfere with yourself.
Spain – Take Discotheque with or without date in Summer plus open air
bonging bar.
Germany – It is our intention to pleasure you every day.
Serbia – The flattening of underwear with pleasure is the job of the
chambermaid. Turn to her straight away.
Canada – No dancing in the bathrooms.
Japan – You are invited to take advantage of the chambermaid.
Zurich – Because of the improprietory of entertaining guests of the
opposite sex in the bedrooms, it is suggested that the lobby be used for
this purpose.
Finland – Fire Instructions: If you cannot reach a fire exit, close the door
and expose yourself at the window.
Torremolinas – We highly recommend the hotel tart.
Vietnam – Tasty tacos and beautiful tarts are the order of the day.
Japan – We now have a Sukiyaki restaurant with lodging facilities for
those who want to have experiences on Japanese bedding.
Germany – I send you my prices. If I am dear to you and your mistress,
she might perhaps be reduced.
Germany – A vivacious stream washes my doorsteps, so do not concern
yourself that I am not good in bath. I am superb in bed.
Germany – Standing among savage scenery, the hotel offers stupendous
revelations. There is a French widow in every bedroom, affording
delightful prospects.
China – Our hotel has the few best foreign affairs in hotels.
Rome Turkish Baths – Be pleased to come lie down with our masseuse.
She will make you forget all your tiredness.
Japanese Medical Questionnaire – Has any part of your body ever grown
uncontrollably ?
Page 27
Walking GroupOn the recent Bluebell walk, the Walking Group had a record 35 walkers !
They were all safely looked after and nobody was lost on the walk.
Well Done Cyril and Jeanette.
Thoughts on Walking
I like long walks, especially when they are taken by people who annoy me.
The only reason I would take up walking is so that I could hear heavy
breathing again.
I have to walk early in the morning before my brain figures out what I’m
doing.
Walking can add minutes to your life. This enables you at 95 years to
spend an additional 5 months in a nursing home at £2000 a month.
My grandpa started walking five miles a day when he was 60. Now he’s
97 and we don’t know where he is.
For those who are interested in the Walking Group,
we walk every 10 days on Wednesdays and
Saturdays from 2 to 5 miles. Some of us round off
the day’s walk with a Pub lunch – Pleasure after
pain! If you require more information or the
Walking Book (£3) please contact me on
01202-733956.
Cyril - Walks Co-ordinator.
Page 28
Heart Rhythm and Atrial Fibrillation Message Boards
Arrhythmia Alliance – The Heart Rhythm Charity is a patient focused
organisation, offering advice, guidance and support whilst promoting timely
and effective diagnosis and treatment for arrhythmia patients. A-A hears
from many individuals who wish to contact others experiencing similar
symptoms and diagnosis. The moderated Forum Message Board addresses
this, offering 24/7 access to fellow arrhythmia patients across the globe !
The message board provides the opportunity for patients, carers and family
members to express any worries they may have, discuss stories and
experiences and reassure each other in difficult and unfamiliar times. Trained
moderators are able to ensure all messages are ‘appropriate’ and that the
poster’s contact details remain confidential, moderation also ensures that
accurate information and guidance is provided. Joining and using the
message board is free of charge and becoming a member only takes a few
minutes - it couldn’t be easier! Simply visit the Arrhythmia Alliance website
and follow the onscreen instructions: www.heartrhythmcharity.org.uk
The Atrial Fibrillation Association (AFA) have also established a message
board dedicated to all those affected by Atrial Fibrillation. This board is also
moderated to ensure the accuracy of information and is free for all to join.
For further information, please visit the AFA website
(www.atrialfibrillation.org.uk) and select the ‘Forum’ tab. Alternatively please
contact a member of the team on 01789 451837.
MY LIVING WILLLast night, my kids and I were sitting in the living room and I said to them, ‘I never want
to live in a vegetative state, dependent on some machine and fluids from a bottle.If that ever happens, just pull the plug.’
They got up, unplugged the Computer, and threw out my wine!!!!
Page 29
FAIRYTALE - Beer made from ferrets
FIASCO - Unsuccessful wall painting
FLATULENCE -Ambulance used when you are run over
FRAGRANT - Sweet smelling tramp
FRIGATE - Ship nobody cares about
FROGSPAWN - Blue movies for French
FUSELAGE - Not many that big
GOBLET -A small mouth
GURGLE -To steal a ventriloquists dummy
HADDOCK - Enclosure for sea horses
HARLEQUIN - One of a set of five motorbikes
HARPIST - Partially inebriated
HEATHROW - What a baggage handler does
HEBREW - Jewish teabag
HIDING -A bell you can’t reach
HOARDING – Call girl’s bell
HOBGOBLIN - Eating stoves
HONOLULU - Award to Scottish female singer
HORTICULTURE - Ideas above ones station
HUMMINGBIRD - Lady in need of a bath
HUMMUS- What Geordies use to bang nails in
HUSTLE-BUSTLE – 19th century kerb crawler
ICONOCLASTIC - Rubber band for religious paintings
INCREMENT - Bad weather in Japan
INJURY - On judicial duty
INTENSIVE - High speed strainer
IVY - Roman for 4
LABURNUM - French barbeque
LACTOSE - Effect of frostbite
LAMPOON - Device for whaling at night
LIABILITY - Political skill
LUPINE - Toilet air freshener
LYMPH - To walk with a lisp
MANDATE - Male dried fruit
MANOEUVRE - Vacuum cleaner men can use
MARGATE - Mother of all scandals
MAYFLY - Doubtful aircraft design
Alternative Dictionary F - MThese words and suggested alternative meanings are intended to be
amusing and not cause offence.
Page 30
What to do if you become unwell
When your GP surgery is closed
Medical help and advice is available if youbecome unwell when your GP surgery is closed.You should:
Dial 999 or go to A & E as soon as possible ifyou are worried about the sudden onset of newsymptoms or have suffered a serious Injury orillness.
A & E departments are open 24 hours a day,365 days a year. They are for a critical or lifethreatening situation, for example chest pain,suspected heart attack, severe breathingdifficulties, severe loss of blood, loss ofconsciousness, deep wounds and suspectedbroken bones.
They are not for minor injuries or healthproblems, nor an alternative to seeing your GPor for a ‘second opinion’ if you have alreadyseen your GP.
Call the Dorset Out of Hours MedicalService on 0845 600 10 13 if you are unwellbut not facing a life-threatening emergency andyou think you cannot wait until your GP surgeryopens.
Go to an NHS Walk-In Centre or MinorInjuries Unit with a minor injury or illness.Find your nearest one by calling NHS Direct on0845 46 47.
You can also call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 ifyou are feeling unwell and are unsure what todo, or need information about finding apharmacist, dentist or other service.
REMEMBER IF YOU HAVE CHEST PAIN
DIAL 999 WITHOUT DELAY
Answer to UK
Anagram Society
puzzle on page 8 -
No Trespassing
Allowed.
Crossword
Answers
from page 22
Across
1. Taffeta
5. Ankle
8. Earmuff
9. Adios
10. Knightly
12. Any
15. Yes
17. Snowstorm
19. China
20. Example
22. Taste
23. Extreme
Down
1 Tweaked
2. Fortify
3. Emu
4. Awful
5. Amaryllis
6. Keira
7 Essay
11. Handshake
13. Whoopee
14. Compere
15. Yacht
16. Swiss
18. Obese
21. Art
Page 31
Escoffier Luncheon – Wednesday 24th February.
The new venue at the B&P College site at the Lansdowne turned out to be
reasonably accommodating, but there was the odd comment that it brought
back memories of a works canteen! Nevertheless what was important was
that the meal set out before us was very good.
58 members and friends sat down at the six long tables, as 2 people had to
cry off due to illness. 15 members of the PHSG Office support staff were
invited special guests, some of them meeting for the first time. Everyone
was in good time despite the difficulty of parking. A number actually managed
to get a bus to the Old Christchurch road and were actually closer to the
Escoffier building than most of the people in cars! The weather was kind but
a few were caught in a short, sharp shower.
The presentation of the dishes was first class and the eating was pretty
good as well. One or two reports of cold plates were noted, and the “warm”
tart was cold but still very edible. The service given by the trainee staff was
efficient with no serious disasters to report. Some feed back of the relatively
minor problems was given to the head waitress who actually did appreciate
the remarks, which included thanks for a very good lunch.
Jan Mesher, leader of the Office support staff thanked all of her team and
presented a bouquet to Betty Elsmore who has stood in during the recent
period while Jan has not been well, and “Happy Birthday” was sung to Viv
Wilkinson. All in all a very enjoyable event, which finished just after two
o’clock.
Gary Lee Social Events Secretary. PS Thank you to all who sent cards or
emails of appreciation.
Page 32
Want to lose weight for life?
Want to lose weight but you don’t know where to start then readon.......................
Start by writing down your reasons for weight loss, look at what you wantto achieve and whether this is the right time for you to start makingchanges to your diet and lifestyle.
If now is the right time, before you start:* Keep a food diary of everything you eat and drink as well as your
emotions and any activity you do for a week. This helps identifyproblem areas, or feelings or situations that trigger overeating.
* Choose 2 or 3 small changes to start with. Write a plan to followwith clear targets. For example - I will eat breakfast everyday or Iwill swap from butter to a low fat, olive oil enriched margarinebased spread.
* Identify things to distract you from eating so when you feel like youwant to snack you can use these, i.e go for a walk or read amagazine or phone a friend.
* Enlist support to keep you inspired and help you through toughtimes. It could be a friend, partner, group or website.
Goal Setting:* Set realistic, achievable goals. Success boosts confidence in your
ability to lose weight.* Losing just 5-10% of your weight over 3-6 months has massive
health benefits including reducing blood pressure.* A weight loss of between 1-2lb a week is a safe and achievable
target.* It’s not just about your weight on the scales. Losing inches from
your waist really helps to lower the risk of conditions like type 2diabetes and high blood pressure.
* Don’t forget activity. Doing more every day not only helps you burnmore calories but can boost mood and improve long term success.
To lose 1lb of weight a week you need a deficit of 500Kcal a day. So,cutting out that chocolate bar or packet of crisps can really help counttoward achieving this deficit and help you lose weight.
Next time we’ll look at healthy eating tips and activity...................
Dael Hartley, Poole Hospital Dietitian
Page 33
PUERTO POLLENSA
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bedroom apartment
with large wrap-around balcony
& outdoor dining area,
air-conditioning and English TV.
5 mins level walk to the beach and
7mins level walk to the town centre.
For more information and rates call;
ANN on 01202 423934
Special offers available -
please quote ref: HM08
www.eucalyptos.com
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Dear Editor
After all this lovely spring weather, I’m hoping we can
all look forward to a barbecue summer.
Patty O’Dors
Dear Editor
We are safely past May 31st, so can now strip off with impunity.
I refer, of course, to the old saying ‘Ne’re cast a clout ‘till May is out.’
I know of three claims to the origin of this saying and will let your readers
decide which one is genuine:
1) Do not remove any clothing until the month of May is out.
2) Do not remove any clothing until the May blossom is out.
3) There was once a homeless lady of ill repute, who would
deliberately get herself arrested and imprisoned to spend the cold
winters inside. Come the warmer weather, she would be released.
Her name was May.
Blair Watson
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Page 34
Dear Editor
Can my local church charge me for repairs to its roof ?
We want to buy a house in a village, but have been told
by neighbours that the local church has the right to
charge local residents for roof repairs. The estate agent
says that nobody has been charged for repairs in the past. Does the
church have a valid claim to such payments ?
Blair Watson
These sound like chancel repair rights, which are enjoyed by some
ancient churches to charge homeowners for the cost of repairs. The rights
originated from the obligation of the owners of ‘glebe’ land to pay for the
upkeep of the chancel, which is the area around the church altar.
Chancel rights may seem rather arcane, but some estimates suggest that
up to 40% of land in England and Wales could be liable for these costs.
The House of Lords upheld the validity of chancel repair liabilities in the
2003 case of Aston Cantlow Parish Church Council v Wallbank. The
owners of a Warwickshire farmhouse had to pay £95,000 for works to a
village church.
It is notoriously difficult to establish if chancel repair obligations exist or
not. They are often not recorded in the title deeds to a property and there
is no official register. The Church of England has until October 13, 2013,
to register chancel repair rights at the Land Registry. If it fails to do so,
anyone who buys registered land after that date will be freed from liability.
In the meantime you should take special care if you are buying a property
near a medieval church, or the premises you are buying has the word
‘glebe’ in the address. Your solicitor should make careful searches and it
may be worth taking out insurance to cover the risk. Fortunately, this cover
is not expensive. – Ed.
Dear Editor,
For those who like anchovies, here is my recipe contribution.
Alexandre Dumas is credited with inventing this recipe:
The “Anchovy Monte-Cristo”
Stuff a pitted olive with a cured anchovy fillet. Place the olive inside a
black bird, the black bird inside a quail, the quail inside a pheasant, the
pheasant inside a turkey, the turkey inside a pig and roast over a roaring
fire.The true gourmands eat only the anchovy.
From one of my favourite cookery books, ‘Bistro Cooking.’ Iris Roethke
Page 35
All letters, e-mails and other submissions received are assumed to be for
publication and free of copyright restriction. They may be edited for space or
clarity and are not necessarily the views of the Editor or PHSG
From the Editors Desk
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Dear Editor
Recently, in the Poole area, there was a possibly
historical sighting. Passing on a similar open top bus our
informant reports seeing what he took to be a pair of
Ancient Britons.
It was a bright day, albeit with temperatures in single
figures. The couple definitely had blue skins, though whether genuinely
woad coated it was difficult to ascertain.
The buses met at a narrow portion of the road and had to virtually stop, so it
was possible for our observer to overhear the pair communicating. Speech
appeared to be mainly grunts and unintelligible sounds we are told.
The close-up viewing enabled it to be established that the female wore
some sort of tubular garment on the upper body just covering the
mammaries, and on her lower body a brief loin-cloth. The male was bare-
chested and wore some sort of primitive shortened breeches with frayed
edges. Footwear regrettably was invisible. Both wore metal jewellery
apparently fastened directly to the skin ? They also bore tribal markings, no
details could be noted in the time available.
It is understood that similar sightings have been recorded, but this is the
earliest in any year ever known. Any further information would be gratefully
received by our local paleontologists and Historical Phenomena Society,
and pictorial evidence however indistinct would receive a suitable
enumeration. Prof: ‘Digger’ Hasbeen.
For the uninitiated, I understand that this refers to an early ‘grockle’
sighting. Grockle, n – a derogatory term for a holidaymaker, especially one
in the West Country - Ed.
Hearty Greetings from your Editor as we go live with the Summer Magazine
Have you ever thought how many people it takes to run a large heart
support group ? A quick glance at page 2 will reveal that we now have 14
committee members, all working hard to ensure the success of PHSG, as
well as 7 other contacts, who, while not wishing to be on the committee,
give invaluable service. That’s 21 members, together with unsung heroes,
such as office volunteers, members who help with exercise equipment
and take money, and others who make their own invaluable contribution to PHSG.
And not forgetting our exercise trainers who put us through our paces.
Thanks, everyone, we couldn’t do it without you !
@l@n
Volunteers wanted
to help
in our
P.H.S.G.
Head
Office
for only
2 hours
per month
Poole Heart Support Group operates under the umbrella of
the British Heart Foundation who rely on voluntary help for
fund-raising events.
BHF urgently need a Treasurer- can you help please?
We also need occasional supporters for fundraising.
Please contact:
Pam Bailey BHF Rep.
4 Knighton Heath Close
Bearwood BH11 9PP.
Telephone
01202 574944
We would be pleased to hear from any members who would
be prepared to play a more active role in the Poole branch
of BHF. We meet once a month at Poole Hospital to plan
forthcoming events.
Rose Cottage Typesetting and Printing 01258 455663
Jan Mesher
PHSG Office Co-ordinator.
Please Telephone
01202 683363 ext. 133Manned 1.30 - 3.30pm.
Mon & Thurs
You can always call the Office !
You can always call the office
We’re a happy little bunch.
On a Monday or a Thursday,
We’re there just after lunch.
If you need some information,
Exercise or walking club,
(Cyril says they ramble
and then end up at the pub!).
We distribute magazines
and sign in each new member.
We are on the go all the time
from January to December
