Sarah Cartlidge
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Lives by the sea, big fan of apple crumble, Baroness, Wolf Alice, and weird films
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Articles by Sarah Cartlidge
'Residents are entitled to question new artwork on the clifftop'
The reaction to BCP Council's new Lean Into the Wind sculpture on West Cliff has been difficult to miss. For many residents, it has prompted less admiration than disbelief particularly after it emerged that the project cost £54,000. BCP cabinet member Councillor Andy Martin was reported as saying that, because the sculpture was funded through a UK Government grant, there was "no cost to local taxpayers".
Review - Romeo Stodart & Ren Harvieu, Lighthouse, Poole
FILE THIS under unexpectedly good, heartwarming, life-affirming even. And it shouldn't even work. She is the quirky, beautifully voiced singer who was signed at 18 and so nearly made it big time back in 2012 with her top five breakthrough album Open Up Your Arms. He is the gentle, self-effacing great big, but diminutive, bear of a man, the lead singer and songwriter from popular and acclaimed sibling hitmakers The Magic Numbers. Chalk and cheese it seems, but no, there is chemistry there.
Review - Grace Petrie, Lighthouse, Poole
HAVING only ever previously encountered Grace Petrie in festival situations, here was an excellent chance to catch the singer-songwriter's full theatre set. In fact, it was two sets – the first half showcasing her folk roots with a solo set, followed by a full band blowout of career-defining favourites. Difficult to categorise, Petrie (that's 'pee-tree', not 'pet-ree') is a sort of one-person protest movement, a female Frank Turner who is somehow full of swagger and vulnerability simultaneously.
BCP's financial crisis was never an inherited problem
OVER THE past few weeks, we have heard repeated warnings about the serious financial pressures facing BCP Council. It is now forecasting a £27 million overspend and says this poses a significant threat to its financial sustainability. Since taking control in May 2023, the Lib Dems have repeatedly claimed they inherited a difficult financial position from the previous Conservative administration.
'Bournemouth will not be rebuilt by nostalgia'
There is a strange local pastime in Bournemouth. It requires no membership fee, no training and absolutely no personal responsibility. You simply announce that the town is finished, blame the council, blame the businesses, blame the landlords, blame the young people, then return to your day feeling that your civic duty is complete. Apparently, Bournemouth was perfect when Woolworths was open and everyone queued outside Tiffany's.
'Reform talk the talk, but can't offer alternatives on BCP's financial challenges'
“BCP should do it,” has become the oft repeated mantra from Reform. By whatever coincidence, this item is being published on the same day that Bournemouth's Reform controlled town council meets, and I have two motions for the council to decide. First comes deterring crime and anti-social behaviour. I am proposing that the Town Council employs its own officers to patrol our shopping centres and our streets. Second is investing in our children's play.
'Dorset needs to start thinking as one destination'
This week I attended the launch of Dorset's new Destination Management Plan. I also sit on the board of the Dorset Local Visitor Economy Partnership, so I have had the opportunity to see first-hand the work and thinking that has gone into getting us to this point. But for me, this should be about far more than simply launching another tourism strategy. Yes, it is a plan for our visitor economy.
How can I protect myself financially before and during divorce?
Kimberley Davies, the Candid Divorce Lawyer, answers common questions about separation and divorce. If you've ever gone through separation, you'll know it can feel a bit like assembling flat-pack furniture without instructions: frustrating, confusing, and with plenty of pieces you're not quite sure what to do with. The emotional impact is often matched by financial uncertainty, particularly where finances have become intertwined over many years.
Review - John Kearns, Lighthouse, Poole
London-based comic John Kearns is having a tough time – the end of a 12-year relationship has seen him living back home with his parents in the wilds of Streatham at the age of 39 and wondering, in his own words, ‘how has it come to this'.
Review - John Martyn Project, Lighthouse, Poole
John Martyn remains a revered and influential figure in the annals of the British folk rock boom of the late ‘60s, early ‘70s and well beyond. He was a trailblazing guitarist and created beautiful and distinctive songs over a 40-year career stretching to 23 original albums until his death in 2009 at the age of just 60. Born Iain David McGeachey in London to opera singer parents and part-raised in Scotland (known as the ‘English-born Scots Belgian Jew'), he began professionally at the age of 17.
Hospitality directors warned to act as one in six businesses risks failure
A hospitality insolvency expert has warned that directors must act decisively to avoid collapse. Antony Batty & Company Ltd, based in Bournemouth, issued the warning amid growing pressure on the industry, which has struggled with a wave of recent closures, financial losses, and rising costs across the UK.
Dorset is a wonderful place to live. But what is our identity?
I love Dorset. I've lived in Dorset most of my life, was raised here and brought my own family up here. We have an extraordinary coastline, beautiful countryside, fantastic communities and a quality of life that many parts of the country would envy. It's easy to take for granted but we are so fortunate. But there is a question that often comes up in discussion - what do we actually want Dorset to be?
June and Michael celebrate 65 years of marriage after leap-year proposal
One of the south's longest-married couples have celebrated their blue sapphire 65th wedding anniversary. June and Michael Pipes marked their 65th anniversary with a special afternoon tea at Colten Care's Woodpeckers care home in Brockenhurst, where they now live. The couple's love story began in Derbyshire at Willersley Castle, where June worked as an activity organiser. June proposed to Michael during a leap year, taking matters into her own hands after waiting for him to ask.
'I still believe Bournemouth's best years can be ahead of it'
I've made a terrible discovery since I started writing these columns. The Bournemouth Echo comments section has not yet regenerated Bournemouth. I know. I was shocked too. Despite thousands of comments explaining, often in CAPITAL LETTERS, precisely what is wrong with the town, we still have work to do. And that is really the point.
Sir Derek Jacobi to discuss six-decade career at Lighthouse Poole
Sir Derek Jacobi will discuss his six-decade career at Lighthouse Poole on Wednesday October 28. The event, titled Sir Derek Jacobi In Conversation with Richard Clifford, will begin at 7pm in the theatre. Jacobi is known for his work at the Royal National Theatre and has received BAFTA, Olivier, Emmy, Screen Guild and Tony Awards. He was also given a knighthood for services to theatre by Queen Elizabeth II. The actor grew up in Essex as the son of a corner shop owner and a secretary.
PCC David Sidwick: 'Visible and connected policing in Dorset'
Since I came into office, I have heard time and time again from Dorset residents that they want to see a police force that is visible, accessible and connected to the communities it serves. That is why Visible, Trusted and Connected Policing is a key part of my Police and Crime Plan. It is a commitment shaped directly by what Dorset's communities have told me they want from their police force.
Ocean Film Festival tour to visit Christchurch and Poole
The 2026 Ocean Film Festival World Tour will visit Christchurch and Poole this autumn with short films about the sea. It will be held at Christchurch's Regent Centre on October 8 and November 19, and at Poole's Lighthouse Theatre on November 17. The programme for audiences explores ocean life above the surface, beneath the waves and through stories linked to the sea. Organisers said the collection includes films about adventure, marine life and people working to protect the ocean.
Chris de Burgh announces Dorset show as part of eight-date 2027 UK tour
Chris de Burgh will perform in Bournemouth as part of his 2027 UK tour. The legendary singer-songwriter will take to the stage at Bournemouth Pavilion on May 7 as part of the It's Never Too Late Tour, which spans eight UK dates. The tour opens in Bath on May 6 and includes two nights at London's Cadogan Hall on May 10 and 11, before concluding in Liverpool on May 17.
Charity golf day raises more than £20,000 for Amelia's Rainbow
A charity golf day has raised more than £20,000 in support of one of its chosen charities for 2026. The event, organised by Barratt David Wilson Homes Southampton, was held on September 4 at East Horton Golf Club in Eastleigh and will benefit Dorset-based children's charity Amelia's Rainbow.
Bournemouth has 190,000 reasons to believe in its town centre
AROUND 190,000 square feet of commercial space is sitting empty across Bournemouth town centre. It is easy to look at those dark windows and locked doors and see decline. I see something else: space for new businesses, jobs, creativity, culture and community. This week, a room full of people gathered at Patch to work out how we turn that possibility into something real. We should put the challenge into perspective.
Safeguard Community Support: 'When the community calls, we respond'
From Wareham to Winton and Charminster, the message from local people is clear – they want to see a reassuring presence in their communities, and Safeguard Community Support is listening. It has been another busy couple of weeks for SCS, with our volunteers continuing to get out into our communities, speak with residents and respond to areas where people have asked for our presence. We recently attended Wareham Wednesday, engaging with the public and providing a visible and reassuring presence.
Road casualties matter. But evidence shouldn't stop at the kerb
I have always enjoyed horror films. But local politicians turning practical decisions into social media polls is becoming its own horror story. At least horror films have an ending. BCP's current administration will too. The Liberal Democrats sound urgent over neglected playgrounds. But where was that urgency when BCP held the budgets?
Review - Freya Ridings at Lighthouse, Poole
Probably best known for her 2017 breakthrough hit Lost Without You, although seemingly not really a household name, singer-songwriter Freya Ridings still virtually filled Lighthouse's Concert Hall. One mustn't underplay her success story though as that top 10 single has been streamed more than 450 million times on Spotify and her most popular 10 songs are all into the millions.
Thai restaurant proves it has the recipe for top spot
Sarah Cartlidge A THAI restaurant has once again taken the top spot in Poole on Tripadvisor.
Fix the pier but don't fix the surf out of Bournemouth
THERE WAS an alarming warning this week from Bournemouth's surfing community about the plans for repairs to Bournemouth Pier. Their concern is fairly straightforward: in carrying out essential works to protect the pier could we inadvertently change the conditions around it that have helped make Bournemouth Pier one of our best-known local surf spots? This isn't just about surfing either. Surfing brings people into Bournemouth from local day visitors through to people staying overnight.
James B Partridge delivers a 'joyous evening' at Lighthouse
Appearing at Lighthouse was a true homecoming for James B Partridge. Not only was he born and grew up in Poole, he also appeared on this very stage many times as a member of the Bournemouth Symphony Chorus. And as he said to his adoring assembly audience, who would have thought he'd one day be performing his very own one-man show in the same room?
£24.5m investment in i247 Group wins deal of the year award
A £24.5 million investment deal has taken home top honours at a regional awards ceremony. LDC's investment in Poole-based i247 Group was named Deal of the Year (£10m–£50m) at the South Coast Deals Awards, held in Southampton. The transaction saw private equity investor LDC take a stake in the technology-led fleet management business, which employs around 270 people and manages more than one million vehicles.
Tom Hayes MP: 'Pollution issue is heartbreaking and we need action'
The River Stour and Christchurch Harbour matter. They are where children sail, families spend time together, and people connect with nature. I love spending time there myself. But none of us can enjoy these waters if we're left wondering whether they're safe. There should never be pollution, and I'll come to that in a moment, but we need action now it's here. It breaks my heart that local people have been forced to spend time in hospital.
Free pickleball taster session for people with Parkinson's in Mudeford
People with Parkinson's are being invited to a free Pickleball taster session in Mudeford. The event will take place on September 16 from 10am to 12pm. It is at Advantage Padel, Christchurch Business Park, Mudeford, Dorset, BH23 4FL. People from surrounding areas of Dorset and Hampshire can attend. Advantage Pickleball is delivering the free session, with all ages and abilities welcome. An experienced instructor will explain the basics, and all equipment will be provided on-site.
Wessex Volleyball Club hosts first Women and Girls in Sport Day in 50th year
Wessex Volleyball Club has hosted its first-ever Women and Girls in Sport Day. The event took place at Parkstone Grammar School on Sunday, September 6, and was organised by the club's Women's 1 (W1) team. It featured a day of coaching clinics, matches, mentorship, and celebration.
Stolen vehicle found with false plates as wanted man arrested by Dorset Police
A stolen vehicle has been recovered as part of ongoing efforts to tackle rural crime. The vehicle, taken from Bedford and found with false registration plates, was recovered by Dorset Police's Rural Crime Team. A man was arrested in connection with the theft and driving offences. Further checks revealed he was wanted for violence and weapons offences, and a quantity of drugs was found during a search of his address.
Poole RNLI tackles two dinghy incidents after one capsizes and another loses mast
A lifeboat crew was called out after reports of a capsized sailing dinghy. Poole RNLI launched just after 3pm on Saturday, September 12, to an incident in Poole Harbour between Arne and Hamworthy. Conditions were described as blustery. On arrival, crews found the dinghy under tow by a harbour jetski, with both occupants already recovered onto a harbour patrol rib. A crew member boarded the rib to assess the pair and found them to be cold but otherwise unharmed.
Upton Country Park to host new immersive Illuminate light trail this winter
Poole is set to sparkle this winter with a brand new immersive light trail. The Illuminate experience launches at Upton Country Park on Friday, November 20, 2026, transforming the grounds into a vibrant, seasonal spectacle through a series of immersive light installations. Designed as an experience for the whole family, the illuminated trail promises a 60 to 80-minute journey through glowing displays and immersive installations, bringing the park to life after dark.
Upton Country Park to host new immersive Illuminate light trail this winter
Poole is set to sparkle this winter with a brand new immersive light trail. The Illuminate experience launches at Upton Country Park on Friday, November 20, 2026, transforming the grounds into a vibrant, seasonal spectacle through a series of immersive light installations. Designed as an experience for the whole family, the illuminated trail promises a 60 to 80-minute journey through glowing displays and immersive installations, bringing the park to life after dark.
Retirement community to open doors for special afternoon and charity showcase
A vibrant community of older residents is opening its doors to the public for a special afternoon. Highview Court, an independent living development in Highcliffe, will host an open day on Saturday, September 19, from 2.30pm to 5pm. Residents are inviting the public to meet them, learn about their activities, and see how they support charities including New Forest for Ukraine and Breast Cancer Now. Sheila, a resident, said: "We have great flats, and our own front doors.
Column - five simple wellbeing practices inspired by Chinese medicine
AFTER more than 25 years working in health, I've become increasingly interested not just in how we treat illness, but in how we can support our health before reaching crisis point. That's one reason I wanted to start this health column: to share some of the knowledge and positive experiences I've gained from working with integrated approaches, including Chinese medicine. Mental health affects many of us.
50th anniversary vintage ploughing match to take place at Smedmore Estate
A vintage ploughing match will mark its 50th anniversary at the Smedmore Estate in Kimmeridge. Taking place on October 3, the event is organised by the Wareham & Purbeck Vintage Ploughing Committee and typically attracts more than 50 competitors. It features vintage and classic tractors from the 1940s to the early 1970s, offering a glimpse into historical farming methods.
Del Amitri founders bring 45 years of music stories to Ringwood conversation tour
Del Amitri founding members Justin Currie and Iain Harvie are set to bring their new conversation tour to Ringwood. The show, Del Amitri – 45 Years Of Modest Failure: An Evening of Conversation with Justin Currie & Iain Harvie, will take place at The Barn on Sunday, April 18, 2027, and promises a night of storytelling, humour, and reflection.
50th anniversary vintage ploughing match to take place at Smedmore Estate
A vintage ploughing match will mark its 50th anniversary at the Smedmore Estate in Kimmeridge. Taking place on October 3, the event is organised by the Wareham & Purbeck Vintage Ploughing Committee and typically attracts more than 50 competitors. It features vintage and classic tractors from the 1940s to the early 1970s, offering a glimpse into historical farming methods.
Column -'Five simple wellbeing practices Inspired by Chinese Medicine'
AFTER more than 25 years working in health, I've become increasingly interested not just in how we treat illness, but in how we can support our health before reaching crisis point. That's one reason I wanted to start this health column: to share some of the knowledge and positive experiences I've gained from working with integrated approaches, including Chinese medicine. Mental health affects many of us.
Retirement community to open doors for special afternoon and charity showcase
A vibrant community of older residents is opening its doors to the public for a special afternoon. Highview Court, an independent living development in Highcliffe, will host an open day on Saturday, September 19, from 2.30pm to 5pm. Residents are inviting the public to meet them, learn about their activities, and see how they support charities including New Forest for Ukraine and Breast Cancer Now. Sheila, a resident, said: "We have great flats, and our own front doors.
Review - Richard Thompson at Lighthouse, Poole
Rolling Stone, the esteemed but somewhat self-important American rock periodical, once named Richard Thompson as the 69th greatest guitarist of all time. It seems the compilers of that list had not seen him play live, or he would have been top 10 at least. To see Thompson wring every ounce of music from his favoured guitar on stage is a wonder to behold.
Letter - 'Haven Hotel is an important part of Marconi's history'
I HAVE read the comments on the possible destruction of the Haven Hotel at Sandbanks, and notice that so far no-one talks about the important part in history that the hotel played with Marconi's use of that hotel for the development of his wireless telegraphy experiments. There is even a blue plaque dedicating the building to this historic event. How many other blue plaque buildings would be considered to be destroyed to build ugly flats which only the rich could afford to buy?
£2m conservation project completed at Dorset's Corfe Castle
A major conservation project has been completed at one of Dorset's most iconic historic sites. Corfe Castle, a royalist stronghold during the English Civil War, has been preserved for future generations following a three-year, £2 million scheme led by the National Trust. Work focused on stabilising nine towers, the Keep, and the curtain wall, with teams repointing stonework using traditional lime mortar and clearing invasive vegetation.
Sinatra-themed tea party raises £200 for Bournemouth Food Bank
A care home hosted a swinging Sinatra-themed tea party to raise funds and donations for its charity of the year. The event took place at Avon Cliff care home in Bournemouth, where residents, families, and members of the community gathered for an afternoon of music, refreshments, and fundraising. A Frank Sinatra tribute performance by Scott Free set the tone for the lively event, which raised around £200 and collected food donations in support of Bournemouth Food Bank.
Creative countryside day brings 120 visitors together
AROUND 120 people attended the first Creative Countryside Day at Tilefield Nature near Brockenhurst. It brought together art, nature and outdoor activities, inviting visitors of all ages to explore the countryside in creative ways. It was created through a partnership between Tilefield Nature CIC and CPRE Hampshire. Around 120 visitors took part in artist-led workshops and drop-in activities during the day last month.
Harriet announces Wimborne date on Trying To Get The Feeling Again UK tour
Singer-songwriter Harriet has announced a UK tour date in Wimborne as part of her latest nationwide tour. She will bring her acclaimed Trying To Get The Feeling Again Tour to Wimborne's Tivoli Theatre on October 30, performing with her full live band. Harriet said: "After an extraordinary year of touring in the US, I'm so thrilled to bring Trying to Get the Feeling Again home to the UK – this time with my full band.
Creative countryside day brings 120 visitors together
AROUND 120 people attended the first Creative Countryside Day at Tilefield Nature near Brockenhurst. It brought together art, nature and outdoor activities, inviting visitors of all ages to explore the countryside in creative ways. It was created through a partnership between Tilefield Nature CIC and CPRE Hampshire. Around 120 visitors took part in artist-led workshops and drop-in activities during the day last month.
Choir raises £86,000 for Macmillan hospice through 14 years of performances
A choir has raised £86,000 for charity through years of heartfelt performances. The Diamond Divas, a 20-strong ladies' choir based in Highcliffe, have spent the past 14 years performing to support Macmillan Caring Locally, which funds the Macmillan Unit hospice in Christchurch.
Sinatra-themed tea party raises £200 for Bournemouth Food Bank
A care home hosted a swinging Sinatra-themed tea party to raise funds and donations for its charity of the year. The event took place at Avon Cliff care home in Bournemouth, where residents, families, and members of the community gathered for an afternoon of music, refreshments, and fundraising. A Frank Sinatra tribute performance by Scott Free set the tone for the lively event, which raised around £200 and collected food donations in support of Bournemouth Food Bank.
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