It’s been a beautiful week in Poole and as we approach the Bank Holiday weekend, we’ve got a lot to talk about.

With the Town Council elections fast approaching, we’ve got a quick reminder on what you need to do before polling day. There’s also an update from Poole Harbour’s famous ospreys, a great local success story from a first-time author, our usual trivia and plenty of events happening across the area this week.

Oh, and we love doing our trivia questions, should we organise a PooleNow trivia night? If you didn’t vote in our poll last week, make sure you do this time!

As ever, thanks for reading, your wonderful feedback and all you do to spread the word.

Enjoy!

PooleNow is now proudly sponsored by Bournemouth One, the local radio station bringing you music, news and travel updates across Dorset. Listen whilst you read!

There’s more eggxciting news from Poole Harbour as the resident osprey pair CJ7 and 022 have now laid a fourth egg.

The female was spotted on the nest near Wareham early in the morning, marking the third year in a row the pair have reached a clutch of four. It’s a rare occurrence for ospreys and a really positive sign for the success of the reintroduction programme.

The pair have been nesting at Careys Secret Garden since 2022 and have gone from strength to strength, raising multiple chicks each year. Their return this spring was much smoother than last year too, when CJ7 arrived to find 022 had briefly paired with another female.

If all goes to plan, the eggs are expected to hatch towards the end of May.

With the Town Council elections taking place on Thursday 7 May, time is running out to make sure you’re ready to vote.

If you’re planning to vote in person, you’ll need to bring photographic ID with you to the polling station. This can include a passport, driving licence or certain travel passes, and expired ID is still valid if you’re recognisable.

If you don’t have an accepted form of ID, you can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate, but the deadline is fast approaching at 5pm on Tuesday 28 April (THAT’S TODAY!)

To help make things clearer, we’ve put together a simple FAQ and updated candidate information page so you can see who’s standing and how everything works.
Find out more here: https://poolenow.com/p/town-council-elections-frequently-asked-questions

It only takes a few minutes to get organised, but it means you’ll be able to have your say next week.

A vibrant display of local creativity is coming to Poole as part of Dorset Art Weeks.

Poole Printmakers will be taking over GATHER in the Dolphin Centre from 27 May to 7 June, showcasing work from more than 25 local artists.

Expect a wide range of original prints, all available to buy at accessible prices, making it a great opportunity to pick up something unique.

There will also be daily drop-in sessions where you can try printmaking for yourself, as well as the chance to meet the artists and learn more about the craft.

The group runs the south’s only open-access print studio in Poole Old Town, supporting both experienced artists and those just starting out.

Entry is free.

After a packed weekend of creativity, the Bournemouth Writing Festival has wrapped up for another year.

Around 2,000 writers, readers and visitors took part across the three-day event, with a huge range of workshops, talks and performances taking place across the town.

The festival’s aim is to make writing more accessible and less isolating, and that sense of community was clear throughout, with a welcoming atmosphere and plenty of opportunities to get involved at all levels.

Organisers have praised the volunteers, participants and supporters who helped bring the event together, with feedback highlighting just how friendly and inclusive the festival felt.

Look out for more information in upcoming issues about future events!

Following on from our recent feature on Poole-based colouring book creator Andy Storey, another local resident is making their mark with a brand new book.

Adam Cleaver, who grew up in Poole and now lives in Canford Heath, has just released his debut novel, The One After Fortnight.

Set in a fictional seaside town called Darkpool, the story centres around a mysterious event that leaves residents believing they have just 14 days to live. Each chapter follows a different character as the countdown unfolds, building towards a final day where everything is revealed.

Adam spent two years writing the book and even created the cover artwork himself, keeping the whole project completely personal.

The novel is available now on Amazon in both paperback and eBook formats

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Last week the feedback to our idea of organising a PooleNow quiz night was overwhelmingly positive - we just want to make sure enough people are actually interested in this idea! If you haven’t already voted, please do so below.

Poole Bridge is set to close for several days as part of planned maintenance works.

The closure will run from 9:30am on Monday 27 April until 6pm on Friday 1 May, with no access for vehicles, pedestrians or cyclists during this time.

Work will include routine maintenance, along with resurfacing and waterproofing on the approach roads.

If you’re already eyeing up the summer calendar, you’re not alone. Last week we reported on some of the events coming up at Upton Country Park and festival season across Poole, Bournemouth and the surrounding area is shaping up to be one of the biggest yet, with something for everyone, from street food and live music to cultural celebrations and family-friendly days out.

Here’s a look at some of the standout festivals to get on your radar…

First up, Food Fest Local returns to Christchurch High Street on 23 and 24 May. This free, family-friendly weekend is all about great local food, live music and community vibes. Expect street food traders, artisan treats, kids’ activities and entertainment throughout the day.
Find out more: https://www.christchurchbid.co.uk/event/food-fest-local-2026/

Also in May, the ever-popular Magic of Thailand Festival lands at Harbourside Park in Poole on 16 and 17 May. It’s a vibrant celebration of Thai culture, packed with authentic food, traditional performances, Muay Thai boxing, crafts and even a Thai massage area. A great one for families and food lovers alike.
More info: https://www.magicofthailand.co.uk/our-festivals/poole

Kicking off a busy June, the Upton House Food and Music Festival takes over Upton Country Park from 12 to 14 June. Expect a huge variety of street food, craft drinks, live music and local traders, all set in one of Poole’s most scenic spots.

The following weekend, 19 to 21 June, sees Grooves on the Green return to Ashley Cross. This much-loved community festival brings three days of live music, food stalls, family entertainment and a brilliant atmosphere, all right in the heart of the village.
Full details: https://groovesonthegreen.com/

Later in the month, things take a nostalgic turn with the Shake & Stir Vintage Armed Forces Weekender on 27 and 28 June in Southbourne. Expect vintage music, classic vehicles, dancing and a celebration of heritage, all with a special focus on honouring the Armed Forces.
More info: https://www.eventsbystir.co.uk/

That same weekend, 27 and 28 June, Folk Festival on Poole Quay brings live music, Morris dancing, family entertainment and plenty of seaside fun along the Quay. It’s always a lively, feel-good event for all ages.

If you’re after something a little bigger, the Bournemouth 7s Festival returns from 22 to 24 May. Known as one of the UK’s top sport and music festivals, it combines rugby, netball and fitness competitions with live DJs, entertainment and a full-on festival atmosphere.
Find out more: https://www.bournemouth7s.com/

Moving into July, SandFest hits Sandbanks Beach on 12 July, bringing thousands of people together for a day of sun, music and beachside partying. With big-name DJs, food vendors and one of the best views in the UK, it’s always a highlight of the summer.
More info: https://sandfest.co.uk/

And rounding things off in style, the Poole Harbour Festival celebrates its 10th anniversary from 31 July to 2 August. With major headline acts, multiple stages and a packed programme of entertainment, it’s set to be bigger than ever this year.
Get tickets: https://www.pooleharbourfestival.com/

Also on 1 August, Stompin’ on the Quomps in Christchurch offers a more laid-back vibe, with smooth jazz, swing and funk in a beautiful riverside setting, perfect for a summer’s day.

Keep an eye out as we get closer to each date, we’ll be sharing more details, highlights and what not to miss.

Broadstone Art Society Spring Exhibition, The Gallery Upstairs at Upton Country Park, daily 9:30am–4pm (from Thu 30 Apr to Tue 12 May)
A wide selection of paintings, prints and cards from local artists, plus the chance to have your portrait sketched for free. Admission is free.

Poole Men’s Shed, Gather at The Dolphin, Sun 3 May to Sun 10 May, 10am–4pm
A welcoming space for men to socialise, share skills and work on projects together in a relaxed, friendly environment.

Poole Quay Bike Night, Poole Quay, from 5:30pm
A popular weekly evening by the harbour with bikes, live atmosphere and plenty of places to eat and drink.

Live Music Showcase, Tap & Grape, Broadstone, 7:30pm
A night of fresh local talent with some of the area’s best musicians performing live. Free entry.

BSO: An English Song Winterreise, Lighthouse Poole, 7:30pm
A unique recital blending Schubert’s Winterreise with English song selections in a moving musical journey.

Poole Pirates vs Oxford Cheetahs, Poole Stadium, 7:30pm
A big night of speedway action with high intensity racing and plenty at stake.

Live Music: Almost Nearly Famous, Bermuda Triangle, Ashley Cross, 8:30pm–10:30pm
Midweek live music with a lively set to keep the atmosphere going in Ashley Cross.

Jim Henson’s Labyrinth In Concert, Lighthouse Poole, 7:30pm
The cult classic film brought to life with a live band performing the iconic soundtrack.

Anna Phoebe, Lighthouse Poole, 8:00pm
A powerful blend of classical, electronic and experimental music led by a stunning violin performance.

Hidden Triangle Community DJ Sessions, Bermuda Triangle, Ashley Cross, 7:00pm–11:00pm
Three DJs, open decks and a multi-genre night showcasing local talent on a proper club system.

Vinyl Night, The Portsmouth Hoy, Poole Quay, from 8:00pm
Bring your records or just enjoy a full album played on a vintage turntable. Book a table on 01202 673517.

Two Fat Melons Big Spring Quiz, Patch at Bobby’s Bournemouth, evening
A fun and interactive quiz night with creative rounds and a £50 cash prize. Book your place

Live Wrestling Night, Junction Leisure Centre, Broadstone, 6:30pm–9:00pm
An action-packed evening of live professional wrestling with high-energy matches.

Live Music: The Big Nite Out, Bermuda Triangle, Ashley Cross, 9:00pm–11:00pm
A Friday night live set to kickstart the bank holiday weekend.

Steamer (Live Music), The Portsmouth Hoy, Poole Quay, from 9:00pm
A long-awaited return with roots in Chicago, Texas and Canvey Island. Book ahead on 01202 673517.

SKAEMA Live, Sandbanks Brewery, from 7:00pm
Original post-punk sounds with free entry, plus great food, drinks and a lively atmosphere.

May Day Music Night, Sandbanks Brewery, evening
An informal, music-filled evening welcoming in May with tunes, songs and a relaxed social vibe.

Miniature Steam Fair, Poole Quay, 11:00am
A fun, family-friendly day celebrating steam with displays and activities for all ages.

BSO: The Music of Led Zeppelin, Lighthouse Poole, 7:30pm
A symphonic take on classic Led Zeppelin tracks in a powerful live performance.

Lucid Cabaret: MAYDAY, Lighthouse Poole, 8:00pm
An immersive and imaginative cabaret experience with a post-apocalyptic twist.

HonkyTonk Collective Johnny Cash Tribute, Allens Lane, 7:00pm
A full band tribute to Johnny Cash with free live music.

Live Music: Brother Bots, Bermuda Triangle, Ashley Cross, 9:00pm–11:00pm
High-energy live music to keep the weekend going.

Upton House Open Day, Upton Country Park, 12:00pm–4:30pm
Explore the historic house, browse gifts and enjoy optional guided tours throughout the afternoon.

Live Music: Zoe Schwartz Bluez Party, Bermuda Triangle, Ashley Cross, 4:00pm–6:00pm
A relaxed Sunday session with blues-inspired live music.

Jenkins & Sons Quiz Night, Jenkins & Sons, 6:00pm
Test your knowledge with the return of the popular quiz night. Book your table on 01202 746604.

Haircut 100, Lighthouse Poole, 7:30pm
A chance to catch the iconic band live as they continue their long-awaited return.

Mad4Dance: The Wonder Of You, Lighthouse Poole, 1:30pm and 6:00pm
A vibrant dance performance celebrating individuality and expression.

Speed Quizzing Night, Bermuda Triangle, Ashley Cross, 7:30pm–10:30pm
Fast-paced quiz night with prizes up for grabs. Entry £3 per person.

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