Hello Poole!

We’re back, bigger and better—welcome to issue two!

It’s great to see our PooleNow community growing, and we’re just getting started.

Want to help spread the word? Forward this email to a friend, and let’s bring even more people into the loop on Poole’s latest news, events, and local gems. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn to get updates during the week.

Got a great local tip, event, idea, or feedback? Whatever it is, we’d love to hear from you! Drop us a message at [email protected].

Enjoy this week’s edition—let’s keep Poole in the know!

This week…

• Try Poole’s toughest quiz!

• Big news for summer – paddling pools are back!

• Grooves on the Green line-up revealed!

• The history of one of Poole’s most famous entrepreneurs

• A Dining Experience You Won’t Want to Miss!

• Live music, pub quizzes, wrestling(!) & a wedding fair – plan your week

📜 PooleNow’s Local Knowledge Quiz – Can You Score 10/10?

How well do you know Poole? A big shout out to Jan, Ruth, and Elaine who are currently lording it over everyone, after scoring an impressive 9/10 on the PooleNow Local Knowledge Quiz.

But no one has scored a perfect 10… yet. Think you’ve got what it takes to claim the top spot?

Put your local knowledge to the test and see if you can make history!

Take the quiz now

💦 Paddling Pools Set to Return for Summer!

Great news for families! All four public paddling pools across Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole will reopen this summer, offering a free, fun-filled way to cool off.

In Poole, Hamworthy Park’s paddling pool will once again be supported by BCP Council, Friends of Hamworthy Park, and the park’s café concession – a brilliant example of the community working together to keep this much-loved spot open.

Get ready for sunny (not constantly cloudy!) days and splashing fun!

🎭 Calling Local Artists! Arts by the Sea Residency Open Now

Are you a creative looking to make your mark on one of the South Coast’s biggest arts festivals? Arts by the Sea is inviting applications for its 2025 Artist in Residence Scheme—a fantastic opportunity for artists from the BCP area, whether you're local, studying here, or have moved away.

The selected artist will collaborate with 2024’s Artist in Residence, Rebecca Strickson, gaining insight into bringing their vision to life across the festival’s platforms.

📅 Deadline: 12pm, Monday 10th March
🔗 Apply here: Submit your application

Arts by the Sea champions local talent, bringing together large-scale installations, music, dance, theatre, and more. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this incredible festival’s 15th edition!

 🚀 Start Your Business with Ignite

Got a business idea? The Ignite programme is a free course designed to help new entrepreneurs turn their ideas into reality. Funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and open to local residents and students, it covers everything from marketing and finance to idea generation. It also includes a 1:1 mentoring session and a £250 grant!

📅 Course dates:
• 28th February, 9am–1pm
• 7th March, 9am–3pm

📍 Location: Evolve, North Street, Poole

🔗 Find out more and register your place today!

🌐 South Coast eCommerce Meet-Up

Work in eCommerce? Whether you're a retailer, marketer, developer, or designer, this free networking event is the perfect place to connect with industry pros, share ideas, and grow your business.

📅 27th March 2025
🕔 5pm–9pm
📍 Patch, Bournemouth

Hosted by Mollie, Patch, and Real Agency, this relaxed event includes drinks, nibbles, and plenty of opportunities to chat with like-minded professionals.

🔗 Register here: Eventbrite link

🦅 Explore Poole Harbour’s Birdlife on a Summer Cruise!

Birds of Poole Harbour’s Summer Cruises are now open for booking—offering a unique chance to explore one of Britain’s most ecologically important areas. As a RAMSAR site and Special Protection Area, Poole Harbour is home to internationally significant bird populations, and these cruises provide a front-row seat to nature’s spectacle.

What to Expect:
Osprey Cruises – Running twice daily, 39 times this season! Spot these majestic birds as part of the ongoing Osprey reintroduction programme.
Sunset Safaris – A breathtaking evening trip to witness raptors in flight and wading birds settling in for the night.
Three boat trips per week, with twice-daily sailings from mid-August to early September.

Led by expert guides, these trips will not only help you spot species like Ospreys, White-tailed Eagles, Marsh Harriers, and Sandwich Terns, but also shed light on vital conservation efforts—like habitat restoration, bird monitoring, and the award-winning School Bird Boat Project.

Check the event calendar & book your trip: Birds of Poole Harbour

Whether you're a seasoned birder or a curious beginner, this is your chance to connect with nature and support local conservation efforts.

🏙️ Have Your Say on Bournemouth’s High Streets!

If you’re 65 or over and regularly venture over the border into Bournemouth, here’s your chance to make a difference! Bournemouth University is gathering insights from older residents to help businesses create a more age-friendly town centre. The feedback will shape new training and guidance, making the high street more welcoming for all.

📢 Share your experiences and help make positive changes: www.bournemouth.ac.uk/accessing-services

📢 Poole Museum is Hiring!

Poole Museum is reopening this summer after a huge £10 million redevelopment – and you could be part of it! They’re looking for Visitor Experience Assistants to welcome guests, share Poole’s rich history, and support a vibrant cultural hub.

With new maritime galleries, interactive displays, a stunning café, and a packed events programme, the museum is set to become a must-visit destination. If you love history, storytelling, and working with people, this could be the perfect role for you!

Apply now

🎾 New Padel Centre in Poole – Now Hiring!

Exciting news! Cross Court Padel, a brand-new Padel Centre opening in Poole, is looking for staff ahead of its launch. If you’re after a fun and dynamic workplace, this could be the perfect opportunity. They have bar/café staff, chef, reception and admin roles available.

Want to get involved? Apply now or get in touch for more details!

Email: [email protected]

Carter’s Tiles: The Poole Pottery That Made Its Mark

In the heart of Poole's rich industrial tapestry lies the story of Carter's Tiles, a company that not only shaped the town's architectural aesthetics but also left an indelible mark on the ceramics industry.

The Visionary Founder: Jesse Carter

A man of keen business acumen, Carter's journey took a pivotal turn when he visited Poole. There, he identified a unique opportunity: an encaustic tile and brick company on Poole's East Quay had fallen into financial difficulties and ceased operations. Recognising the potential, Carter acquired the site, laying the foundation for what would become Carter's Tiles.

With the acquisition in 1873, Carter transformed the near-derelict pottery into a thriving enterprise. Capitalizing on the abundant local deposits of Dorset clay, the company initially focused on producing functional items such as tiles and architectural ceramics. The quality and durability of their products quickly garnered attention, leading to increased demand and expansion.

As the company grew, so did its reputation for quality and innovation. Carter's Tiles became known for hand-painted and themed tile panels, with scenes gracing the walls of pubs (The Swan Inn), butchers, fishmongers (Jenkins and Sons) and greengrocers. Fairy tales and nursery rhymes adorned children's hospitals and schools, while city councils, department stores, and even shipping lines commissioned bespoke works of tile art from Carter's. This blend of aesthetic appeal and practical functionality solidified the company's standing in both domestic and commercial markets.

The Carter Legacy in Poole

Beyond the factory walls, the Carter family became integral to the Poole community. Jesse's sons, Charles and Owen, joined the business, each bringing their unique talents. While Owen delved into the artistic and decorative aspects, Charles took on the role of managing director and later chairman. Under their stewardship, the company expanded its product range, introducing decorative glazed and painted wall tiles that resonated with the Victorian and Edwardian penchant for ornate interior design. Jesse's grandson, Herbert Spencer Carter, became Mayor of Poole five times and Herbert Carter Secondary School was opened in 1946, named in his honour.

The influence of Carter's Tiles extends beyond Poole. The company produced much of the ceramic tiling used in London Underground stations built in the 1930s. Notably, they crafted relief tiles designed by Harold Stabler, depicting symbols of London—some of which can still be seen in stations like Bethnal Green and Manor House.

Today, while the original Carter's Tiles has evolved and undergone various transformations, its legacy remains embedded in Poole's architectural heritage and the broader ceramics industry. The company's commitment to quality, innovation, and community has left an enduring mark, making it a proud chapter in Poole's rich history.

To find out more about Carter’s Tiles and see some amazing examples, make sure you check out Carters Tiles — The Virtual Museum of Poole Pottery

What’s your favourite example of Carters Tiles? Let us know: [email protected].

🍷 A Special Wine Pairing Evening at The Pickled Berry

Looking for a unique dining experience? The Pickled Berry on Poole High Street is hosting another fantastic five-course wine tasting dinner, featuring expertly paired dishes and a brand-new selection of wines.

📅 Thursday, 20th March
🕖 7:00 PM arrival for a 7:30 PM start
💷 £65 per person (£10 deposit required)

Spaces are limited, so book early! Call 01202 076868 or email [email protected] to secure your place.

🎶 Grooves on the Green Returns for Its 25th Year!

Get ready for a weekend of live music, great food, and family fun as Grooves on the Green celebrates its 25th anniversary! Taking over Ashley Cross from Friday 27th to Sunday 29th June, this year’s festival promises an incredible lineup, hosted by Allan Turner-Ward.

Expect top tribute acts, including Oasis (Oassis), Foo Fighters (The Few Fighters), and Adele (Inspired by Adele), plus performances from local favourites like Volatile Agents, Quinns Quinney, and Ratrace. All proceeds support Dorset’s disability charity, Diverse Abilities.

Early bird tickets are just £7 (under 5s go free), so book now and don’t miss out!

👉 www.groovesonthegreen.com

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

Tuesday

Gather, Dolphin Centre – Paws & Claws' and 'Life Through My Lens' Art Exhibition, from 10am Tuesday to Friday
This special showcase features pet portraits and photography by students from Authentic Education schools. From detailed drawings to striking photographs capturing life through a young lens, it’s an inspiring display of creativity. Explore the artwork

The King Charles Pub, Poole – Poole Plugged & Unplugged Open Mic Night, 8pm
Take the stage at this welcoming open mic night where you can perform with or without amplification. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just starting out, this is the perfect place to share your sound. Performers even get a free drink. Step into the spotlight

The BIC – Craig David: 25th Anniversary Commitment Tour, 7pm
Join Craig David as he celebrates 25 years in the music industry with an electrifying live performance. Featuring special guest Lemar, this show promises a nostalgic yet fresh take on his chart-topping hits. Get your tickets

Lighthouse – Together to the Light Exhibition, from 10:10am
An exhibition celebrating unity across different cultures, this display of art and ideas invites visitors to experience a collective journey towards light and peace. Running until 2nd March. Discover the exhibition

Thursday

The George – Quiz Night with Play Your Cards Right and Bingo, 8pm
A quiz night with an extra twist! Take part in the classic quiz, then stick around for Play Your Cards Right and a round of bingo. Plenty of chances to win.

Knightlife Brewing Taphouse – Thursday Night Quiz, 8pm
Enjoy craft beer while putting your trivia skills to the test in this lively and competitive quiz night. Give it your best shot

Jenkins & Sons – Tim Somerfield Live Music, 7pm
Sit back and enjoy a live performance from talented local musician Tim Somerfield. With a mix of classic covers and original songs, it’s the perfect backdrop for a Thursday evening. Catch the show

The Britannia – Après Ski Thursdays
Get a taste of the Alps with fondue and raclette specials, available every Thursday until 20th March. Perfect for warming up with friends over delicious, cheesy goodness. Find out more

Friday

The Bricklayers – Live Music from Captains Big Band
Kick off the weekend with big band classics from a fantastic local ensemble, bringing timeless tunes and lively rhythms. Enjoy the music

The Cockleshell – Peter Cooley Live Music, 9pm
Peter Cooley’s rich vocals and diverse setlist will keep the energy high all night long. Expect everything from soulful ballads to upbeat singalongs. Be part of it

Lighthouse – Jason Donovan: Doin’ Fine 25, 7:30pm
Jason Donovan takes fans on a journey through 35 years of music, theatre, film, and TV with this special anniversary tour. Book your seats

The Junction, Broadstone – Live Wrestling, 6:30pm
Kapow and SWF bring high-flying action to Poole, featuring some of the UK’s top wrestling talent. Expect dramatic showdowns and thrilling matches in an electrifying atmosphere. Grab your tickets

Saturday

Jenkins & Sons – Chris Edward Live Music, 8:30pm
A fantastic night of live music from Chris Edward, featuring acoustic guitar and powerful vocals. Make a night of it with Jenkins & Sons’ signature food and drink offers. Plan your evening

Gather, Dolphin Centre – MakerSpace Local Craft Market, from 10am Saturday and Sunday
Browse handmade crafts, gifts, and artwork from a talented mix of local creators. A great place to find something unique while supporting small businesses. Shop local

The Tap and Grape, Broadstone - Aaron O’shea live music at 8:30pm hear the hits

Sunday

The Oakdale Club – Sunday Quiz Night, 8pm
Round off the weekend with a friendly quiz night in a relaxed setting.

The Britannia – Charity Quiz Night, 6:30pm
A quiz night with a cause – £2 from each £3 entry fee goes to Julia’s House Children’s Charity. Support a cause

The Guildhall, Poole – Wedding & Civil Partnership Exhibition, from 10am
Discover everything you need to plan your big day, with expert advice and inspiration from local wedding specialists.

Monday

The Grasshopper – Monday Quiz Night with CK, 7pm
The quiz everyone’s talking about – packed with brain teasers, laughter, and friendly competition. [See what the buzz is about]

The Bermuda Triangle, Ashley Cross – Quiz Night, 7pm
Hosted by the energetic Venus, this quiz night combines trivia, snacks, and plenty of fun. Arrive early to grab your seat. Join the fun

Got an event you want promoting? Tell us about it!

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That’s it!

See you next week!