GETTING OUT AND A SNOUT

BY George, it looks like the wait is finally over. Time to round up your little piggies, trot along to Paulton’s Park and be the first to see what Peppa Pig, everyone’s favourite porcine playmate has been up to. Peppa, George and their family and friends have been busy building an entire life-size village, complete with houses, a school room and even Windy Castle. You can take a flight on Miss Rabbit’s balloon ride and sail in Grandpa Pig’s boat. For snacks there’s Daddy Pig’s Big Tummy Cafe and for letting off steam, there are plenty of play areas, including a much-needed indoor play place and it wouldn’t be Peppa’s world without the Muddy Puddles splash area. Oink!

ART WITH HEART

Young Art Dorset 2011 Saturday, April 9 and Sunday, April 10

Dorset youngsters between the ages of four and 18 years have been showing off their artistic talents in support of Cancer Research UK in an art competition. The prize-winning entries and other ‘highly commendables’ will be included in an art exhibition at The Arts University College, Bournemouth. All the art will be for sale via a silent auction. Private view and prize giving event: Saturday, 4pm/ Exhibition: Sunday, 10am till 4pm.

A TOUCH OF CASINO ROYALE

Bond Dinner Dance Saturday, April 9

Pick your favourite 007 character for the Bond Dinner Dance at The Cumberland Hotel, Westcliff, where you can dress to thrill in aid of Julia’s House. The black tie event will feature James Bond-themed extras, including a cabaret – look out for ‘Shirley Bassey’ – cocktail bar and mock casino. Tickets £45 with proceeds going to the Dorset Children’s Hospice. Contact 01202 607400.

GLORIOUS GARDENS

Highwood Gardens Open Day Saturday, April 30

Garden lovers are being offered a chance to go ‘behind the wall’ at Charborough Park near Wareham to view part of the spectacular grounds. The estate will be opening the Highwood Gardens for one day only from 2.30pm to 6pm to raise money for Julia’s House. From the terrace by Charborough Tower you can enjoy spectacular views across the countryside – on a clear day reaching as far as the Isle of Wight. Afterwards, relax and enjoy teas on the edge of the wood thanks to Poole Lions, who are helping the charity on the day. £4 adults, £2 children (no charge for under-6s).

EASTER FEASTING

Compton Acres lunch, Sunday, April 24

For those keen to relax this Easter, the Italian Villa set within the historic gardens of Compton Acres is hosting Sunday lunch. Guests can enjoy a three-course meal as well as two-for-one entry to Compton Acres to enjoy a post-lunch stroll around the gardens.

A PIECE OF CAKE

Cupcake Camp, Saturday, April 2

Lighthouse, Poole is hosting the South West’s first ever cupcake camp. The event is to raise funds for MacMillan Cancer Support and organisers are gathering together the best bakers from across Dorset and Hampshire under one roof to promote their cupcakes. Each cake will cost £1 and they’re aiming for at least 1,000. Entry is free and there will be celebrity judges, live music, cake art, line drawing and competitions.