Hello Poole!

Hello Poole! This week we’re digging into local entrepreneur Keith Gould’s story, stepping back in time with a Regency-themed murder mystery at Upton House, and opening the floor for your say on Poole Town Council’s latest moves. Plus, Whippy-Off voting is live – have you backed your favourite ice cream van yet? And as always, we’ve rounded up the best of what’s on: from a miniature steam show on Poole Quay to doggy paddleboarding, ghost hunts, and more. Dive in and make the most of your week!

Got some feedback, an event, business, or local story to share? Drop us a message at [email protected] or just reply to this email. We read every email we receive and we’d love to hear from you!

🦅 Osprey eggs set to hatch – and you can watch them live

Poole’s pioneering osprey pair are making headlines again. Female CJ7 and male 022, the only breeding ospreys in southern England, have laid four eggs for the second year running, a rare feat that’s thrilling wildlife watchers.

The Birds of Poole Harbour team, who’ve worked since 2017 to reintroduce ospreys to Dorset, are hopeful for another successful hatch. “This nest is so important for the recolonisation of this special species on the south coast,” said manager Liv Elwood. Hatching is expected later this month — and with webcams live-streaming every moment, excitement is building.

Want to get even closer? Carey Osprey Tours are running from mid-May to mid-June, offering exclusive access to the nest site and expert-led insights, all set within the stunning Carey’s Secret Garden. Bookings are essential to protect this sensitive site.

👉 Book your tour & watch the action

🌊 Paddle Protest hits Sandbanks Harbour

Clean water matters - and the Poole water sports community is taking a stand. Join the Surfers Against Sewage Paddle Protest on Saturday 17 May at 10am at Sandbanks Harbour (opposite Tesco Express) to demand an end to raw sewage dumping in our seas.

Whether you paddle, swim, surf or just love the beach, this is your chance to raise your voice for safe, clean water.

👉 More info here

🍦Whippy-Off Voting Open!

We have put together our long list of the top local hotspots to pick up the most perfect No. 99 Whippy ice cream, so now we need your help again. We need you to vote for your favourites, with the one coming out top being crowned the people’s champion! Once all the votes are in, we will take on the arduous and unenviable task of trying the top choices and judging who we think is the very best Whippy in Poole! We will be judging on:

• Quality of the ice cream

• Price

• Location and overall vibe
  

The poll will be open for the next two weeks, so, get your votes in now or go and try some if you can’t decide!

“Property, Poole and a Powerboat Dream”: Meet Keith Gould of PFM Inspections

PooleNow is here to celebrate and promote local businesses and entrepreneurs. This week we caught up with Keith Gould to find out about his career and life in Dorset.

After two decades in the fast-paced world of London property, chartered surveyor Keith Gould decided it was time for a change. In 2021, he and his family swapped city life for sea air, relocating to Poole - a place already close to their hearts. “My wife’s family had a holiday home nearby, so she spent every summer here,” Keith says. “We added to that once we were married and had children. The global pandemic spurred us into action, and we’ve never looked back.”

Keith’s journey into surveying was anything but traditional. “I left school at 16 and tried loads of jobs,” he says. “But estate agency just clicked. I had a natural interest and ability.” His career quickly evolved, leading him into major development projects (including for household names like Tesco), international travel, and eventually the world of start-ups. But it wasn’t until he formalised his skills through the RICS Senior Professional Route that he officially became a Chartered Surveyor.

The launch of PFM Inspections marked a fresh chapter - one rooted in independence, integrity, and a return to what Keith calls his “first love: residential property.” The name initially stood for Property and Facilities Management, reflecting his recent focus areas. “But pretty quickly I realised I was being drawn back to helping individuals and families,” he says. “Buying a home is a huge life moment and people need proper support.”

Keith’s approach is refreshingly personal, especially when working with first-time buyers. “Too many service providers assume a level of knowledge that just isn’t there,” he explains. “A lot of my clients are the first in their family or social circle to buy a home. I see it as my job to share knowledge, guide them through the process, and make sure they feel confident.”

His surveys often uncover the kind of hidden headaches that can cost homeowners dearly down the line. “Where to start?” he laughs. “Badly applied external render covering the damp-proof course… poor ventilation due to lack of trickle vents… people drying damp laundry on every radiator… and let’s not forget the dubious internal restructuring or fireplaces that have just been boarded over.”

So, what should buyers look out for before making an offer? Keith’s top three tips are gold dust:

1. Ask about any alterations to the layout — and whether there’s paperwork to back it up.

2. Check the key services — the boiler, electrics, gas or oil, water supply. “Make sure you know where the stopcock is — and whether it actually works!”

3. Look at the surrounding properties — if none of them have extended or converted, you may face challenges with future planning permission.

When he’s not delving into lofts and lifting floorboards, Keith finds peace by the water. “I discovered my passion for the sea as a teenager and I’ve been on it, under it and around it in lots of different countries,” he says. Living in Poole has only deepened that love. “I make sure I walk by or see the sea every day. It’s my touchstone, it keeps me grounded.”

Last year, Keith completed his powerboat certification and hopes to train in sailing in Greece soon. “If anyone wants to help me get more crew experience, I’m all ears!”.

Then there’s Buddy — Keith’s four-legged sidekick and “trusty hound.” A once-active site visitor, the retired cocker spaniel now enjoys a slower pace of life, daily beach walks, and keeping a close eye on Keith’s breakfast habits. “He’s always hopeful for a bit of toast crust,” Keith laughs.

What does Keith love most about life in Poole? “People here are open, friendly, and willing to stop for a chat,” he says. “There’s a real can-do attitude. Whether it’s cycling along the beach, a pint in Ashley Cross, or fish and chips on the Quay - we’re lucky to live somewhere with so much to offer.”

It’s this blend of warmth, expertise and straight-talking honesty that’s made PFM Inspections a trusted name for local buyers. As Keith puts it, “Surveying isn’t just about bricks and mortar — it’s about people, stories, and helping them make smart decisions about their future.”

Connect with Keith via his website

🏡 PooleNow Property Pick

Always dreamed of living right by Poole Quay? This three-bed period terrace has uninterrupted harbour views, a sunroom, balcony, and a gorgeous garden — all just steps from the water. Take a look: 👉 View the property

Poole Town Council Feedback

Certain local social media groups have been flooded this week with “information” about the consultation on Poole and Broadstone getting their own Town Council this week. Last week, we put a vote out to get your feedback and this were some of the comments:

“Combined council was meant to be better value for residents, which it isn’t so don’t want to throw more money at this proposal.”

“If Bournemouth and Christchurch have their own council, then Poole should too, maybe local people can start making some decisions again.”

Would you like to see an article where we ask councillors questions about the plans? If you’re a councillor or know one, get in touch by replying to this email!

3 Local stories you might have missed

1. Poole entertainer with terminal cancer raises over £2000 for Dorset charity

2. Dorset marks VE Day with torch processions and street parties

3. Poole’s Twin Sails Bridge reopens early following planned maintenance

Today’s banner picture was taken from the brand new bird hide ‘The Lookout’ on Brownsea Island, but do you know the answer to this weeks trivia question about Brownsea?

🕵️ Murder, mystery & a worthy cause at Upton House

Step into Georgian England for a night of intrigue at Murder at Upton Manor on Thursday 15 May, 7pm–10:30pm. This Regency-themed whodunit invites you to dress up, enjoy live music, canapés, and take part in a chilling mystery, with money being raised for Julia’s House Children’s Hospice.

Organised by AUB students as part of their degree project, this special evening at Upton Country Park promises drama, glamour, and a good cause.

👉 Book your spot here

What’s on this week in (and around) Poole

Tuesday

Guided Meditation, Rockwater Village Branksome Beach, 7pm
A relaxing weekly session using silent disco headphones to fully immerse you in calm, with time for reflection and Q&A.
Join the session

Bike Night, Poole Quay, from 6pm
See the winner of Bike of the Night, plus live music and entertainment.
More details

Wednesday

Poole Runners Upton Summer Series, Upton Country Park, 6:30pm-9pm
The first race in this year’s summer series – open to all abilities with junior and senior distances.
Enter now

Poole Pirates v Oxford Cheetahs, Poole Stadium, 7pm
Speedway action as Poole takes on arch-rivals Oxford – a real crowd-pleaser!
Get tickets

Thursday

VE Day Celebration, Adastral Square, 2pm
A community celebration with cream tea, cake, and wartime tunes – all free of charge.
See details

Quiz Night, The Canford, 7pm
Test your knowledge with quiz master Laz at this monthly favourite.
Take part

Echoes of Love, Lighthouse Poole, 8pm
A moving new play commemorating the 80th anniversary of VE Day through untold stories of local women.
Book now

Comedy Night, Bermuda Triangle, 8pm
Funny Boiler presents a cracking evening of stand-up comedy at Ashley Cross.
Reserve your seat

Food for Thought: Strengthening Our Local Food Community, The Spark, Patch, 6:30pm
Join an inspiring panel discussion exploring how local food systems can better nourish our health, economy, and community. Open to parents, producers, chefs, and anyone passionate about sustainable food.
Get involved

Friday

Overnight Ghost Hunt, Merley House, 8pm
Explore one of Dorset’s most haunted spots on this thrilling paranormal adventure.
Dare to join

Studio Jazz: The Jazz Defenders, Lighthouse Poole, 7:45pm
Top-tier jazz from this renowned group with a love for the Blue Note era.
Book tickets

Saturday

Miniature Steam on Poole Quay, 11am–6pm
A fantastic free day out for all ages! Enjoy vintage steam engines up close, with plenty of sights and sounds from a bygone era. Raising funds for the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit.
More info: poolebid.co.uk

National Open Youth Orchestra: Ring Out!, Lighthouse Poole, 3pm
A powerful, inclusive performance showcasing new music and remarkable talent.
See details

VE Day Anniversary, The Foundry Arms, from 2pm
Celebrate 80 years since VE Day with a street party vibe at The Foundry Arms. Expect BBQ, ice cream, a charity raffle, and 1940s tunes—fancy dress optional but encouraged!
More info: Facebook event

Total Madness, The Swan Inn Bar and Kitchen, from 5pm
Live music and DJs to celebrate the pub’s first anniversary – expect a great vibe.

Coastal Comedy with Stephen Bailey, Lighthouse Poole, 8pm
Laugh the night away with this brilliant headline act and support line-up.
Book now

Sunday

Car Show, Craft & Spring Fayre, Victoria Education Centre, from 10am
A full day of entertainment including cars, live shows, crafts, and more – supporting local students.
Find out more

Design & Collectables Market, Poole Quay, from 10am
The popular market returns with even more traders this year. Browse unique designs and vintage finds, then make a day of it with food and drinks along the quay.
More info: Facebook event

Doggy Paddleboarding, South Coast Adventures, Hamworthy Park, 10am-12pm
Try paddleboarding with your four-legged friend – all kit provided.
Join in

Upton House Open Day, Upton Country Park, 12pm-4:30pm
Step inside Upton House for a free open day with books, souvenirs, and more.
See details

Monday

Quiz Night at The BT, Bermuda Triangle Pub, 7:30pm
A fun and interactive quiz night with bar snacks included.
Find out more

Got a story? Know an inspiring individual? Want to promote a local charity? We’d love to hear about it—just drop us a message at [email protected].

That’s it! See you next week!