Hello Poole!

Hello Poole!

Issue No. 5 is here, and we’ve got a treat for you—literally! This week, we’ve got the first part of our interview with Jeanette Walsh, owner of Truly Scrumptious, to hear how she turned a charming Old Town sweet shop into a thriving local business. Plus, we dive into the debate over Poole Civic Centre, take a look at the biggest events happening this week, and bring you the latest local news.

Got an event, business, or story to share? We’d love to hear about it—just drop us a message at [email protected].

🏛️ What Next for Poole Civic Centre?

Poole Civic Centre, a Grade II listed Art Deco landmark, has officially been put up for sale by BCP Council. The council says it can no longer afford to maintain the site, which has been unoccupied since 2022 and has cost £2.5 million to keep running since the merger of local authorities in 2019. The property is being marketed as three separate lots—the main Civic Centre, the annex, and the multi-storey car park—which could be sold together or individually.

The decision has sparked debate. Supporters of the sale argue that the site has been empty for too long and needs a new purpose, with previous proposals including a boutique hotel and 360 new homes. Others fear that selling the building means losing a key part of Poole’s heritage, with a petition calling for a public consultation on how the community wants it to be used. Some campaigners believe the Civic Centre could be repurposed for affordable housing, business hubs, or community spaces rather than luxury flats.

Whatever happens next, it’s clear that this historic building needs to be put to good use, rather than standing empty. What do you think? How could Poole Civic Centre best serve the town? Let us know your ideas, and we’ll feature some of the best suggestions next week!

🏊‍♀️ The Big Swim – 500 Women Take the Plunge for a Cause

More than 500 women braved the chilly waters of Sandbanks Beach for The Big Swim on 8th March, celebrating International Women’s Day 2025 while raising funds for Surfers Against Sewage.

Local business Land & Wave hosted this inspiring event and the RNLI were on hand to keep the swimmers safe. An unforgettable day of community spirit and cold-water courage!

Find out more about upcoming events: Land & Wave

🏡 More Than Just Houses – How Hillbourne’s New Homes Are Supporting the Community

A £24 million social value boost is transforming Hillbourne beyond just housing! As part of BCP Council’s plan to deliver 110 new energy-efficient homes, the project is also creating jobs, offering apprenticeships, and running community workshops.

So far, 400 trees have been planted, more than 800 young people have received careers advice, and apprenticeships and work placements are already making a difference. Plus, this month sees the launch of free budget cooking classes to help families get the most out of their groceries.

🍎 Thinking About a Career in Teaching?

If you’ve ever considered stepping into the classroom, here’s your chance to learn more! The Bournemouth Bay Teacher Training Partnership is hosting an event to help aspiring teachers understand the training process and opportunities available.

📍 Where? Poole High School, Wimborne Road, Poole, BH15 2BW
📅 When? Tuesday 25th March, 4:30pm - 6:00pm

With a one-year training course starting in September, the partnership offers placements across comprehensive, grammar, and special schools, plus a link with the University of Reading. If you’re looking to make a real impact in the classroom, this is your first step!

Find out more: Bournemouth Bay Teacher Training

🍳 Jenkins & Sons Now Open for Breakfast!

Jenkins & Sons in Penn Hill is now serving up breakfast every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 9am, with a brand-new menu packed with delicious options. Whether you fancy The Full Jenkins, loaded with Cumberland sausage, crispy bacon, homemade hash browns, and eggs, or something lighter like avocado on toast with lime and chilli jam, there’s something for everyone. For those looking for something extra indulgent, the Steak & Eggs featuring an 8oz flat iron steak with hash browns and chimichurri sauce is a must-try.

See the full menu here: Jenkins & Sons

🚀 Public Sector AI Week: Shaping the Future of AI in Public Services

The UK’s leading event on AI in the public sector returns from 10th-14th March, bringing together experts, policymakers, and innovators to explore how AI can transform public services. Across five days, attendees can engage in live talks, webinars, and networking sessions, including the AI First Public Services Conference on 11th March and the AI for Good Summit on 13th March. From harnessing Generative AI to driving data-led decision-making, this event is a must for anyone interested in the future of AI-driven innovation. Sign up and be part of the conversation: Public Sector AI Week

The Sweet Success of Truly Scrumptious 🍬

If you’ve ever strolled through the Old Town in Poole, chances are you’ve been drawn in by the colourful jars of sweets lining the shelves at Truly Scrumptious. This charming little sweet shop, run by Jeanette Walsh, is a haven of nostalgia and indulgence. But behind the counter, there’s a story of hard work, passion, and a love for the local community.

Jeanette’s journey to running her own business started not in Poole but in London. After years of city life, she and her husband decided to move south, seeking a better environment to raise their son. Poole had always been a special place for them, with its coastal charm and sense of community. After working for nine years as a buyer at Poole Hospital, Jeanette found herself at a crossroads. That’s when she spotted an opportunity—her favourite sweet shop, Truly Scrumptious, was up for sale.

 “I’d visited the shop many times and got to know the owners,” Jeanette recalls. “When I found out they were selling, I knew it was my chance to be self-employed and run my own business.”

Taking over the shop on the 1st of August, Jeanette quickly realised it was going to be a whirlwind experience. “It was a baptism of fire,” she laughs. “We had queues out the door, and it was just me and my son trying to keep up!”

Determined to make her mark, Jeanette threw herself into every aspect of the business. She introduced new products, made fresh fudge in-store, created bespoke hampers, and even expanded into corporate orders. But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Like any independent business owner, she faced challenges—especially in those early years.

“For the first three years, I didn’t take a single day off apart from Christmas,” she admits. “It was relentless, but I knew I had to put in the work to make it a success.”

 One of the key things that sets Truly Scrumptious apart is the personal touch. Jeanette insists on greeting every customer, getting to know the regulars, and ensuring that visiting the shop is an experience, not just a transaction. Over the years, she’s built a loyal customer base, including holidaymakers who make it their first and last stop whenever they visit Poole.

 “We have people who come back year after year, and it’s so lovely to see familiar faces,” she says. “Some of them tell me that visiting the shop has become part of their family tradition.”

Despite the hard work, Jeanette wouldn’t have it any other way. She loves Poole—the people, the harbour, the community spirit—and she’s proud to be part of the town’s fabric.

 “When you walk through Poole, people say hello. There’s a warmth here that you don’t get everywhere,” she reflects. “And there’s nothing better than taking a stroll along the quay with a bag of sweets!”

After thirteen years at the helm of Truly Scrumptious, Jeanette has no plans to expand or open another location. “Some people ask why I don’t open a second shop, but I believe if something is working, don’t mess with it,” she says. “I’d rather focus on making this one the best it can be.”

Jeanette’s passion for Poole extends beyond her shop. She’s also one of the organisers of the town’s popular Seafood & Sounds Festival, a role that sees her working tirelessly to bring a unique, community-driven event to the town every September. But that’s a story for next time—watch out for our next issue, where we dive into the festival, its origins, and how Jeanette and her team make it all happen.

Indulge at Truly Scrumptious, 5 High St, Poole BH15 1AB, website, Instagram, Facebook

Well done to everyone that correctly identified St Peter’s Church in Parkstone as the location that Robert Baden-Powell and Olave St Clair Soames tied the knot! Here’s this weeks trivia:

🚖 Have Your Say on Taxi Services in BCP

Changes are coming to Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole’s taxi policies – and now’s your chance to have a say! BCP Council is reviewing its hackney carriage and private hire policies to ensure they align with modern legislation and meet the needs of residents and visitors.

A public consultation is open from 3rd March to 28th April 2025, and the council is eager to hear from everyone who lives, works, or travels in the area. Whether you’re a passenger or a driver, your views matter in shaping the future of taxi services across BCP.

📍 Have your say online: BCP Taxi Policy Consultation
📍 Paper copies available at BCP libraries

🦈 Bournemouth Oceanarium’s March Madness – 50% Off for Locals!

If you live in a BH, DT, or SP postcode you can get 50% off entry and individual memberships at Bournemouth Oceanarium this March!

Explore over 200 species of aquatic creatures in an engaging and educational experience for all ages.

Offer valid: 1st - 31st March 2025
Use code LOCAL50 online or in-person

Book now: Bournemouth Oceanarium

🎨 Sip & Paint: A Creative Night at Rockwater

Ever wanted to paint and sip wine at the same time? Rockwater’s Sip & Paint night is back, this time with the theme ‘Spring Awakening’. Artist Eleanor Whyton will guide you through the session as you create your own masterpiece.

Tuesday 18th March, 6:30pm – 9:00pm
Roof Terrace Lounge, Rockwater Poole

All materials are provided – just bring yourself and your creativity!

Book your spot: Sip & Paint at Rockwater

🎨 From the City to the Sea – A Must-See Art Exhibition

A brand-new exhibition curated by Ben Oakley FRSA is landing at Lighthouse Poole, featuring works from 10 artists with diverse backgrounds. From urban landscapes to seascapes, photorealism to graffiti art – this is a showcase of creativity at its best!

7th March - 19th April
Lighthouse Poole
Free entry

The exhibition includes work from UK and international artists, plus interactive events such as a screen-printing workshop on 22nd March. Ben Oakley explains: “We’ve upped our London roots and are taking this show on the road – and we can’t wait to share it with Poole.”

🖼 Don’t miss it! More info

🦞 Fisherman’s Supper Club – A Seafood Feast at Rockwater

Seafood lovers, this one’s for you! Rockwater is hosting an intimate Fisherman’s Supper Club, featuring a specially curated three-course menu from chef James Golding of Nomadic Sporadic. Expect fresh, locally sourced seafood, a welcome glass of bubbles, and a perfectly paired drinks menu.

Thursday 20th March, 7:30pm – 10pm
Roof Terrace, Rockwater Poole

Indulge in local cuttlefish, cod, and a rhubarb paloma as the grand finale.

🍽 View the menu & book: Fisherman’s Supper Club

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

Tuesday

Bakers Arms, Lytchett Minster – Quiz Night, 8pm
Test your trivia skills at the Bakers Arms Quiz Night – a classic pub quiz in a friendly setting.
Join the fun

Wednesday

The Bermuda Triangle Pub – Live Music: The Harry Skinner Band, 8:30pm-10:30pm
Blues, rock, and soulful tunes from this talented live band.
See event details

Isabel’s Brasserie – Cabaret Night, from 7pm
A night of entertainment featuring Aidan Sadler and Tootsie, plus a two-course meal. £59.95pp.
Book now

Thursday

The Gallery Upstairs – ‘The Moon and the Tide’ Exhibition, 10am-4pm
A solo exhibition by artist Toby Will-Hart, running until Monday.
More info

Jenkins & Sons – Live Music: Gemma Leanne, 7pm-9pm
Incredible vocals, guitar skills, and great energy to warm up for the weekend.
Find out more

Knightlife Brewing Taphouse – Thursday Night Quiz, 8pm
A casual, fun quiz night at Poole’s favourite craft beer taproom.
Join the quiz

The Bermuda Triangle Pub – Stand Up Comedy Night, 8pm
A live comedy night hosted by Vik Garofalides, featuring a lineup of comedians. £5 entry.
Save your seat

Friday

Boxercise, Branksome Beach, 8:15am-9:00am
Start your morning with an energising outdoor workout.
Join the session

Evolve Leaders Lunch, Marsham Court Hotel, 12pm-4pm
An afternoon of networking and inspiration featuring special guest speaker Ryan Bransome.
Book your place

SunFire Worm Full Moon Beach Dance, Branksome Chine, 6:30pm-8pm
A gathering to meditate, dance, and connect under the Worm Full Moon.
Join the event

The Bermuda Triangle Pub – Live Music: Tudo Band, 9pm-11pm
A high-energy band bringing a mix of vibrant sounds to Ashley Cross.
See event details

Saturday

Fluid Acrylic Art Workshop, The Factory, 1pm-3pm
Create two unique abstract canvases in this creative workshop. £15pp.
Book a spot

Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra: Heroes & Superheroes, Lighthouse Poole, 7:30pm
A spectacular concert featuring the greatest symphonic film scores.
Book tickets

Ahir Shah: Ends, Lighthouse Poole, 7:30pm
Award-winning stand-up comedy from one of the best on the circuit.
Get your tickets

The Tap and Grape, Broadstone – Live Music: The Duvets, 8:30pm
A lively gig at one of Broadstone’s favourite venues.
Find out more

The Bermuda Triangle Pub – Live Music: Ain’t Misbehaving Band, 9pm-11pm
Classic hits and live entertainment to keep the weekend going.
See event details

Sunday

The Italian Villa at Compton Acres – Wedding Fayre, 11am-5pm
Tour the beautiful venue and meet top wedding suppliers.
Plan your visit

Rockwater, Poole – Quiz Night, doors open 6pm, quiz starts 7pm
Join quizmaster Alex for a fun and challenging evening. £3pp.
Book a table

The Tap and Grape, Broadstone – Live Music: Austyn Brown, from 6pm
An acoustic set featuring a mix of classic hits and hidden gems.
See event details

The Britannia, Parkstone – Quiz Night, 6:30pm
Test your knowledge and win prizes while supporting Julia’s House Children’s Charity. £3pp.
Find out more

The Oakdale Club – Sunday Quiz Night, 8pm
A classic pub quiz to round off the weekend.
See event details

Monday

The Bermuda Triangle, Ashley Cross – Quiz Night, 7:30pm
A lively quiz night with complimentary bar snacks. £3 per person.
See event details

The Grasshopper – Monday Quiz Night with CK, 7pm
Join Crazy Karl for a fun quiz night that everyone’s talking about!

3 Requests!

1. Next week we’re planning on doing a bumper Easter Holiday special with a whole host of ideas on how to keep everyone entertained. If you know of any brilliant Easter activities going on, get in touch!

2. Spread the word! Please share our newsletter far and wide to anyone that you think might find it interesting. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

3. 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!