Summer on the Quay starts here. The first of four Thursday night fireworks displays takes place this week, we’ve got all the details inside. Elsewhere in this week's issue, Ashley Cross is getting two new restaurants, Oakdale's play parks are finally moving closer to a long-overdue makeover, and BCP has been handed new powers to make roadworks less of a nightmare for drivers. There is also news of higher parking fines on the seafront throughout August, an inspiring local business story, and a quiz question that ties in nicely with this week's fireworks on the quay theme.

Dive in and enjoy!

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One of Poole's favourite summer traditions returns this week as the popular Thursday night fireworks are back at Poole Quay.

The first display takes place on Thursday 6 August, with live music and street entertainment beginning from 7pm, followed by the fireworks lighting up the harbour at 10pm.

The free displays are designed to encourage people to spend the evening in Poole, supporting local restaurants, pubs and independent businesses before enjoying the spectacular finale.

Further displays will take place every Thursday throughout August on the 13th, 20th and 27th.

If you're planning a visit, it's worth arriving early to enjoy the atmosphere, grab something to eat in one of the fantastic restaurants, pick up a bag of sweets from Truly Scrumptious and find a good viewing spot along the Quay.

Families in Oakdale have been given some encouraging news, with refurbishment work on two much-loved play parks expected to begin in early September.

Councillor Pete Miles has shared that improvements to both Oakdale Road and St George's Fields play areas are hoped to be completed before the end of the month, although the timetable is still awaiting official confirmation from BCP Council.

The projects have been eagerly anticipated by local families and campaigners, who have spent years calling for investment in the ageing play areas.

While detailed designs have not yet been released, the update suggests work is now moving closer to getting underway.

As soon as BCP Council confirms the plans and publishes more information about what the new parks will include, we'll bring you all the details.

Ashley Cross looks set to welcome two new hospitality venues over the coming months.

Firstly, Magna Carta is preparing to open on Bournemouth Road in the unit previously occupied by Camden Bar.

Meanwhile, planning permission has been submitted for a new Italian restaurant on Commercial Road. The proposal includes an outdoor decking area between Flamingos and Dolce Vita, creating another dining option in one of Poole's busiest restaurant locations.

We'll keep you updated as both projects progress and opening dates are announced.

Following last week's launch of the new BCP LIFE resident discount card, BCP Council is now encouraging even more local businesses to get involved.

The scheme has already attracted more than 2,000 residents and over 30 businesses in its first week, offering exclusive discounts to people living across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.

Businesses can create their own offer, whether that's a percentage discount, free upgrades or special deals. There are no membership fees, and each business can decide the terms and how long the offer runs.

The council is looking for businesses from a wide range of sectors including retail, hospitality, leisure, culture and services.

Residents can already enjoy savings on everything from parking and swimming to restaurants, watersports and local shops, with more businesses expected to join over the coming weeks.

If you're a local business owner interested in taking part, you can apply through the BCP Council website.

A Dorset farmer who transformed his family business and became a member of the Britain's Got Talent-winning Hawkstone Choir will be sharing his inspiring story at this autumn's Evolve Leaders Lunch.

Ben Chick, founder of Chalk & Padel, will be the guest speaker at the event on Friday 2 October at the Marsham Court Hotel in Bournemouth.

During a Q&A with Evolve founder Warren Munson, Ben will discuss diversifying the family farm, launching Dorset's first rural indoor padel venue and overcoming significant health challenges along the way.

The event is aimed at business leaders and entrepreneurs looking for inspiration around growth, resilience and trying something new. Alongside the discussion, guests will enjoy networking and a three-course lunch.

Individual tickets cost £60 + VAT, with tables also available to book.

Poole's popular You Are The Media (YATM) Lunch Club returns after the summer break on Thursday 3 September, bringing together local business owners, creators and entrepreneurs for an afternoon of learning, conversation and great food.

Taking place at Pi Pizza on Poole High Street, the first Lunch Club of the new season is themed "Start Something", encouraging people to finally take the first step on that project, idea or business they've been thinking about.

Hosted by Stewart Perrett, the event features a panel discussion, plenty of networking and, of course, pizza.

The Lunch Club runs from 12.30pm to 2pm at Pi Pizza, Poole. Find out more!

I always like how on Rightmove, right underneath the guide price it says “Can you afford it?” For this week’s property, the answer is a definite no, but it’s nice to imagine!: 👉 View the property

Forest Holme Hospice Charity has expanded its popular Bereavement Café network, helping even more local people access free support after the loss of a loved one.

The charity has opened a third café at Marjorie House in Sandbanks through a new partnership with Care South, while Leonardo Carer Support has joined the initiative through its Leonardo Friends scheme.

The cafés offer a welcoming space where anyone experiencing grief can meet others, enjoy a cup of tea and talk in a relaxed environment. No referral is needed, and support is available whether or not your loved one received care from Forest Holme Hospice.

The cafés are free to attend and are open to anyone looking for compassionate support during bereavement.

What was Seldown School previously known as: The building began life as Poole Secondary School in 1908 before becoming Poole Grammar School in 1927. When the Grammar School moved to its current site on Gravel Hill in 1966, the old building became Seldown School until its demolition in 1988.

As you watch the fireworks over Poole Harbour this weekend, spare a thought for the ancient vessel discovered in these very waters in 1964. It’s now housed in Poole Museum, but how old is it?

Drivers across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole could soon spend less time sitting in roadworks after the Government approved new powers for BCP Council.

The new Local Lane Rental Scheme will allow the council to charge companies carrying out roadworks on the busiest roads, encouraging them to complete work more quickly and avoid the busiest times wherever possible.

The scheme has already proved successful elsewhere. In West Sussex, similar powers reduced the total duration of roadworks by more than 3,000 days in just 16 months.

Any money raised will be used to run the scheme, with at least half of any surplus invested back into road maintenance and projects that help reduce disruption.

The new powers are expected to come into effect next spring, making BCP the first council in the South West to introduce the scheme.

Motorists parking illegally around the seafront will once again face higher penalties as BCP Council launches its second summer trial of increased parking fines.

Running from 4 to 31 August, the scheme covers coastal roads from Sandbanks to Southbourne and aims to reduce dangerous and inconsiderate parking during one of the busiest times of the year.

The council says last year's trial led to fewer illegally parked vehicles and improved access for residents, businesses, emergency services and public transport.

The council is also inviting residents and visitors to share their feedback on this year's trial before any long-term decisions are made.

The Tempest, Brownsea Open Air Theatre at Canford School
Monday 3 August to Saturday 15 August (selected dates), 7.30pm (plus Saturday 8 August at 2pm & 8pm)
Brownsea Open Air Theatre returns with Shakespeare's The Tempest, performed in the beautiful grounds of Canford School. Evening performances throughout the week plus a relaxed matinee on Saturday. A wonderful outdoor theatre experience.

Summer Fantasy Trail, Upton Country Park, 10am to 4pm daily
Until Monday 31 August
Enjoy a free family trail through the gardens and woodland, discovering magical creatures and completing fun activities along the way. Pick up a free trail sheet from the Welcome Centre.

Pirate Activity Trail, Poole Museum
Daily throughout August
Embark on a swashbuckling family adventure through the museum, solving clues and uncovering hidden treasures. £4.95 per trail.

Bike Night, Poole Quay, From 5.30pm
A fantastic evening of motorcycles on Poole Quay with plenty of cafés, pubs and restaurants to enjoy while admiring a huge variety of bikes.

SBomb Bike Night, SBomb, 6pm
Free weekly bike night with food truck, full bar and a relaxed atmosphere beside the harbour.

Craftaholics Makers Market, Gather at The Dolphin, 10am to 3pm
Browse handmade gifts, jewellery, artwork, cards, homeware and much more from talented local makers.

Museum Gallery Highlights Tour, Poole Museum, 11am to 12pm
Join one of the museum guides for a fascinating highlights tour. Recommended for ages 14+. £15 (£12.50 concessions).

Soul & Motown on Brownsea Island, Brownsea Island, 5.30pm to 9.15pm
Enjoy a harbour cruise aboard the Dorset Queen, live Soul and Motown music from the Susie Kimber Trio and a delicious meal by Saltpig. Visit the organiser's website to book.

Live Music: Innocent Bystander, Bermuda Triangle Pub, 8.30pm to 10.30pm
Enjoy an evening of live music in Ashley Cross.

The Gallery Upstairs presents Cornucopia, Upton Country Park, 10am to 4.30pm
A free exhibition featuring paintings, photography, jewellery, prints and more by Deborah and David Robinson.

SAMEE Showcase and Craft Fair, Gather at The Dolphin, 10am to 4pm
Celebrate creativity and entrepreneurship with artwork, photography, baking, merchandise and crafts from young supported entrepreneurs.

Family Drop-in Activities, Poole Museum, 2pm to 4pm
Fun family workshops including boat building, sea creature crafts and treasure map adventures. £5 per child.

Blake Henderson Live, HonkyTonk Collective, 7pm
American country music artist Blake Henderson performs live. Over 18s only.

Poole Quay Summer Fireworks, Poole Quay, From 7pm
Live music, family entertainment and street performers before a spectacular fireworks display at 10pm over Poole Harbour. No tickets required.

Summer Lates, Poole Museum, Until 9pm
Explore the museum after hours during Poole Quay Fireworks evening with free admission.

Fireworks Night Live Music: Loose Chippings, The Custom House, 8.30pm
Enjoy live music outside The Custom House before the fireworks.

Frontier Sapiens Open-Air Adventure Film Festival, Upton Country Park, 8.45pm
Watch inspiring adventure films beneath the stars in the Walled Garden. Book tickets at https://www.frontiersapiens.com/tickets

SBomb Blue Light Night, SBomb, 6pm onwards
Free evening for blue light and public service workers with discounted drinks and food available.

Mad4Animals Live, Upton Country Park, 10am to 5pm
Meet reptiles, mammals, birds and more with live demonstrations and hands-on encounters. Booking essential. Book via Ticket Quarter.

Antique Fair, Gather at The Dolphin, 10am to 4pm
Browse antiques, vintage treasures and collectibles while supporting Dorset Children's Foundation.

Animal Sounds at the Library, Upton Country Park, 11.30am to 12.30pm
Free family session discovering Dorset wildlife through sounds, crafts and activities.

Jonathan Lindop Live, The Grasshopper, 5pm
Relax with acoustic live music to kick off the weekend.

Evening with Dusty Boots, SBomb, From 6pm
Beginner-friendly line dancing classes from 7pm followed by country music and dancing. £5 on the door.

Car Night: TVRs & Jaguars, Poole Quay, From 6pm
This week's themed car night celebrates TVRs and Jaguars along Poole Quay.

Bournemouth Friday Fireworks, Bournemouth Seafront, 10pm
The popular summer fireworks return with a spectacular free display over Bournemouth beach.

Live Music: Rattlesnake n Tailfeathers, Bermuda Triangle Pub, 9pm to 11pm
Live country and Americana music in Ashley Cross.

Amelia's Rainbow Pop Up Shop, Gather at The Dolphin, 10am to 4pm
Browse handmade crafts and gifts while supporting Amelia's Rainbow charity.

Wessex Association Model Railway Exhibition, Allendale Centre, Wimborne, 10am to 4.30pm
One of the South's biggest model railway exhibitions with layouts, traders and demonstrations. Tickets: https://wamrc.com/wimborne-model-railway-exhibition/

Brownsea Open Air Theatre: The Tempest (Relaxed Matinee), Canford School, 2pm
A relaxed afternoon performance of Shakespeare's classic.

Summer Sounds, Poole Quay
2pm John Springett (Poole Arms)
3pm Sweet Cinnamon (Custom House)
4pm The Right Track Band (Shambles)
8pm Total Madness (Lord Nelson)
Enjoy free live music across Poole Quay throughout the day.

Gary Leonard Live, HonkyTonk Collective, 8pm
Free live country music performance.

Brownsea Open Air Theatre: The Tempest, Canford School, 8pm
Evening performance of Shakespeare's classic.

Live Music: Ocean Mixture, Bermuda Triangle Pub, 9pm to 11pm
Live music in Ashley Cross.

Amelia's Rainbow Pop Up Shop, Gather at The Dolphin, 10am to 4pm
Final day to browse handmade gifts supporting Amelia's Rainbow.

Wessex Association Model Railway Exhibition, Allendale Centre, Wimborne, 10am to 4pm
Final day of this popular exhibition.

Country Market Boutique, HonkyTonk Collective, 11am to 3pm
Country-themed boutique market with a range of independent traders.

Upton House Open Day, Upton Country Park, 12pm to 4.30pm
Explore the historic house, browse gifts and enjoy optional guided tours.

Summer Sounds, Poole Quay
1pm Lilly Mae (Shambles)
2pm Darren Livy (Poole Arms)
3pm Emma Hardy (Page One)
Free live music continues across Poole Quay.

Live Music: Zoe Schwarz Bluez Party, Bermuda Triangle Pub, 4pm to 6pm
Round off the weekend with live blues in Ashley Cross.

Creative Summer Camp, Lighthouse Poole, 10am to 4pm
A creative summer camp for children aged 7 to 12 exploring art, sculpture, movement and nature throughout the week.

Speed Quizzing Night, Bermuda Triangle Pub, 7.30pm
Weekly speed quiz with cash jackpot. £3 per person. Great fun for teams of all sizes.

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