The Dorset Scrapstore in Poole is a haven for all craft lovers!

I haven't been there since they moved premises but my daughter had heard about it through friends at school and asked if we could go and choose some bits for her new scrapbook.

The Scrapstore is a not-for-profit community hub which gives the public access to an ever-changing stock of donated materials, such as fabric offcuts, paper, card, beads, buttons, ribbon, and much more. Unwanted items are donated by local businesses, manufacturers, and individual donors.

You need to be a member to shop and baskets are charged at £6 for a small basket (you can get loads in) and £9 for a large basket.

When we arrived I quickly sorted my membership before grabbing a small basket. We had a good wander first and then went round again so we could start filling up the basket. I got several sheets of really pretty Lush Christmas paper, some gift boxes for presents, plus a big penguin tin which I'll fill with tissue, chocolates and money for my nephew. I also got a pack of cute material squares which I hope to make bunting with the sewing machine I've heavily hinted for as a Christmas present. My daughter picked up lots of little balls of wool to practice her crocheting and some random things for her scrapbook including paper, feathers, flower embellishments, and sequins.

We talked to a couple in there who were grabbing big balls of cut wool to make pom poms and one lady had some huge black foam pieces which she told us was going to be something big for Halloween.

We also spotted plastic sheets, coloured cardboard and printed sheets, reels, foam pieces big and small, material, stamp sets, gift boxes, and a multitude of random bits and pieces!

There's a section with new items and some wool and fabrics are charged individually however these are still great value and worth taking a look at. There’s also a cubby hole with crafting magazines and books however I didn’t take any notice if these were priced or included in the scrap baskets.

So if you have plenty of imagination or you need craft items for a school or home project then I’d definitely recommend a visit.

How it works:

• An annual membership starts from £6 for an individual and this goes up to £15 for groups and schools.

• Anything not included in scrap baskets is well signposted and priced.

Address: Dorset Scrapstore, Unit 23 Cortry Close, Poole, Dorset, BH12 4BQ

For more information on workshops, membership, volunteering, and donations, please visit the Dorset Scrapstore.

Bournemouth Fireworks returns for its 28th year with three spectacular displays in one night!

One of Bournemouth’s much-loved annual fireworks events is set to return this November, as Bournemouth Fireworks celebrates its 28th year at The Littledown Centre.

Taking place on Saturday 7th November, the event will once again offer three spectacular firework displays for the price of one, lighting up the sky at 7pm, 8pm and 9pm.

But there’s plenty happening before the first firework is launched, with gates opening from 5pm and an evening of entertainment planned for the whole family.

This year’s event will feature live music from Bon Jovi tribute Born Jovi, alongside impressive fire performers, a giant fun fair, indoor inflatable play family zone, have-a-go sports, plus a selection of street food stalls and a bar.

Now in its 28th year, Bournemouth Fireworks has become an established fixture in the town’s autumn calendar, bringing families and friends together for a huge night of entertainment at The Littledown Centre.

Ben Dyas, event organiser, said:

“We’re really excited to be bringing Bournemouth Fireworks back for its 28th year. We’ve always wanted this to be much more than simply coming along to watch one firework display – it’s a full evening out for the whole family.

“With three displays throughout the night, live music, fire performers, the fun fair and loads going on for children, there’s something happening from the moment the gates open. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back this November.”

Tickets start from £10 for adults and £7 for children, with under-16s required to be accompanied by an adult. And under 3’s go free!

For more information and to book your tickets, please visit: Bournemouth Fireworks.