BCP council announces Christmas refresh for 2023

A 20-metre light tunnel complete with illuminations will be the new centrepiece of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council’s (BCP) Christmas Tree Wonderland.

Photo by Cat Lindsay

Other additions include projections from lampposts around the Gardens, a lantern archway, flashing light stems, and a new walk-through Christmas present.

The Christmas Tree Wonderland is returning with a refresh for its sixth year.

Fiona McArthur, Manager of Christmas Tree Wonderland’s main sponsor, Bournemouth Coastal BID said: “We are very pleased to ensure that Christmas Tree Wonderland will return for 2023. This event generates significant income for those businesses, and we will continue to listen to them and support their best interests.”

This year the 60ft walkthrough tree will be dressed with decorations.

At night, visitors will be treated to laser lights shooting out the top amid the new white lights of the tree.

Photo by Cat Lindsay

These new and revised additions will be joined by old favourites such as the Seattle and Kyiv trees, the Bethlehem scene, ceiling of light, giant reindeer and Santa.

In a bid to reduce the carbon footprint of Christmas Tree Wonderland, the lights used in the festive installations are LED lights, which have the lowest level of energy consumption.

BCP Council also works with the lighting contractors to look at the ways they can reduce consumption further.

Councillor Andy Martin, Portfolio Holder for Customer, Communications and Culture, BCP Council said: “Christmas Tree Wonderland initially represented a five-year investment in Bournemouth Town Centre, and I’m delighted we’ve been able to secure a one-year extension this year.”

He added: “We know people may be struggling with the cost of living, but this free light trail gives everyone the chance to come and enjoy the lights and really get into the festive spirit, making some great memories along the way.”

MoreBus tests out electric bus on its M1 and M2 routes

MoreBus has been testing out an electric Volvo bus on one of its busiest routes.

Photo by Cat Lindsay

The electric bus has been driving the busiest routes, M1 and M2 through Bournemouth and Poole. One full double-decker bus takes 75 cars off the road, but while public transport is better for the environment than using a personal car, it still releases CO2 emissions. Richard Wade, general manager at MoreBus, said: "We were given the opportunity to test the bus, and we decided to put it through its paces on our busiest routes, the M1 and M2. We’re taking the opportunity to gain some operating experience, including feedback from drivers and passengers, so we can weigh up all options for the future."

Photo by Cat Lindsay

The company said some hurdles have arisen; electric buses struggle to meet a high mile range between charges for longer routes. Electric buses would also mean there would be a change in infrastructure, parking spaces for electric buses would need to be adapted as the chargers take up more space. However, MoreBus said it is “most certainly aiming towards a future electric/hydrogen bus fleet”.

Andrew Wickham, managing director at Morebus, said: “We are looking at new ways to help lower emissions across the region. Buses, especially electric buses, are the perfect solution for this, and they have the potential to significantly improve air quality in our towns.” He added: “In view of this, we are pleased to have the opportunity to demonstrate this Volvo electric bus and are excited by the potential it offers us.”

Mr Wickham said there are changes we can all make that could have a positive impact on our environment. He said: “Buses make up a very small proportion of vehicles on the roads, a fully loaded double decker has the potential to replace up to 75 cars. If more people opted to leave their cars at home, even for just some of the time, and travelled by bus instead, this would have a significant effect on climate change.” With the bus fare cap extended to end of October, it can still be a cheaper alternative to taking your car.

Officially published on Bournemouth Echo - https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/23634407.morebus-tests-electric-bus-m1-m2-routes/

Giddy up! The Neigh Bar is now open!

A horsebox has been transformed into a stylish alfresco bar and kitchen at a New Forest hotel, to pay homage to the New Forest National Park’s native wild horses.

Photo from press release

The Neigh Bar, located in the grounds of the Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa in Brockenhurst, is open Wednesday to Sunday from now until the end of September. The Neigh Bar is supporting a multitude of producers from Hampshire, wines from a local eco-friendly winery and strawberry pink gin from the Isle of Wight.

Photo from press release

The menu consists of seasonal produce and freshly baked Roccbox flat breads such as ‘The Roundhill’ with melted Tunworth cheese, caramelised onion and Morteau sausage, or there are smaller plates such as hearty artichokes filled with local Hampshire cheese.

Photo from press release

Visitors can also choose from the freshest seafood including Brixham brown crab, prawns with mango salsa and grilled octopus. From the Sunday, July 23, The Neigh Bar will be open daily from 11am until 7.30pm, and food will be served noon until 5.30pm.

Photo from press release

A spokesperson said: "So, whether you are looking for a relaxing setting, a long lunch, visiting the hotel and spa, or simply passing while exploring the New Forest, The Neigh Bar is the new must-visit place for the perfect summer tipple with friends and family."

For further details, visit careysmanor.com/restaurants/the-neigh-bar/

Officially published on Bournemouth Echo - https://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/23629794.new-forest-hotel-opens-new-pop-up-bar-summer/