FORUM FOCUS For Blandford and surrounding villages Issue No. 6
Kizzy Miller is Blandford’s Carnival Princess - P18
September 2012
Healthy competition - or a threat to the viability of the town centre? by Nicci Brown BLANDFORD traders, threatened by potential competition from the introduction of new services at the Tesco supermarket in Blandford St Mary, have thanked their customers and town councillors for their support. Competition continues to raise concern, too, in the Tarrant Valley where Tarhinton Farms Ltd has applied for planning permission to convert an old cart shed into a farm shop - a move viewed with alarm in nearby Tarrant Gunville as direct competition with the Belbins' Home Farm Shop, but denied by the applicants. But the comings and goings in Blandford town centre demonstrate that there's nothing wrong with healthy competition. Two new delicatessens have opened, followed by a third at Old Josie's Deli in the former dining room of the Greyhound pub, opened by Claire Watson and her partner Dorian. A leather worker has moved in almost next door to a cobbler, seem to indicate that
businesses can operate side by side. Terri Harrison, who has impressed locals by keeping the original Conyers motor sign above her new leathercraft shop, just yards from her old shop in West Street and close to shoe repairers ASL Ltd, said: "They pass customers to me and we pass customers to them." The delicatessen Dorset Larder specialises in game and directly replaces Bilslands butchers, which closed in May in the Market Place. The Feisty Pheasant, just up the road in Salisbury Street in the former Treads youth information centre and run by Mark and Viv Burroughs who previously ran the greengrocers in Greyhound Yard opposite Morrisons, is focusing on locally produced speciality foods. But confirmation has come of a potential change of use of the Half Crown Cafe in the Market Place, which closed on 16th August. It is understood that Scrivens, the opticians, are planning to move there from their Salisbury Street premises, pending planning permission.
A challenge to Tesco A PERCEIVED threat to businesses in the town from supermarket Tesco has been challenged by Blandford Town Council. It has asked the store to defend its decision to introduce retailing which they view as directly affecting a number of sole traders in the town centre. In a letter to the company, councillors have invited a senior Tesco representative to address a public meeting and asked whether any business impact assessment was carried out before a key cutter, dry cleaner, locksmith and butchery
were added to the in-store facilities. Scott Bryant, who runs the locksmith and shoe repair business ASL in West Street, said: "We appreciate what the town council has done and what our customers have been saying. We're not happy about the recent developments at Tesco, but there's nothing much we can do about it. "The trouble is that people naturally assume that Tesco will be cheaper than us, which is not the case." To Page 2
Scotties Flora and Maisey welcome Olympic torch-bearer Sally Purnell to the Blandford Grange Nursing Home. Picture by Margaret Holt.
Torch thrill rekindled RESCUE dogs Flora and Maisey welcomed Sally Purnell to the Grange Nursing Home in Milldown Road, Blandford, just days after she carried the Olympic torch through Fovant. The two Scotties, adopted through the charity Scotty Rescue by Margaret Holt of Blandford, are regular visitors to the home where they socialise with the residents. Sally, of Salisbury Street, Blandford, is Blandford's registration officer and a former Lieutenant-Colonel in the Royal Military Police, who has served in Iraq, Kosovo and Bosnia. She took her torch to the Grange so that residents, some of whom had been unable to watch it being carried through the town, could see and touch it.
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A challenge to Tesco From Page 1 Trina Horrocks, president of the Blandford Chamber of Trade, said: "People know they can get better value and personal service in the town." The council accused the company of failing to adhere to its own policy of supporting the local
Car park plea TOWN councillors have asked that remaining developer contributions for environmental enhancement in Blandford should be applied to the regeneration of the Church Lane car park, improving pedestrian access and safety, and linking in with their proposals for the Corn Exchange and council offices for which planning permission is being sought.
community, and of operating in direct opposition to the government-supported moves to protect the viability of town centres. Cllr Bob Brannigan said: "They told us the impact on the town of the new extension would be minimal, not that they would be competing directly against sole traders." Cllr Andrew Pemberton: "Tesco may take no notice but the town will see we are trying to do something about it." A Tesco spokesperson said whenever one of their stores undergoes a change, surveys are conducted with customers to find out what they would like to see. "We always listen to our customers, and the new concession in the store provides a service which meets the needs of our shoppers," she said.
Beat the loan sharks Advertiser’s announcement EVER been short of money and looking for a quick solution? Need to find out how to avoid getting deep into debt? Help and advice are on hand in the Corn Exchange in Blandford between 1.30pm and 5pm on Saturday 15th September. Wendy Loades from the national 'Stop Loans Sharks' team, will help you to identify the illegal loan sharks who prey on those in need. First Dorset Credit Union will be on hand to explain how they can help, not only with savings and loans but also other services such as their own Visa card. Spectrum Signpost Housing Association will be available to advise residents on how they can help. A private donor will add £10 to the first 10 new FDCU accounts opened when you have saved regularly for 12 weeks and providing the account is still active (applies to first 10 accounts qualifying). To find out more pop into the FDCU Service Point in Bere's Yard any Saturday morning between 10am and 12pm.
Residents muck in to tidy up their estate PEOPLE living in Barnes Close, Blandford, took up the challenge to clean up their neighbourhood during a tidy-up day on their estate. The volunteers included young Spectrum Signpost residents who took to the streets with litter pickers to help tidy up their area and collected an impressive four bags of rubbish, including one for recycling. Assisted by members of their local Neighbourhood Team and with advice from Clean Up Blandford, estate caretaker Dave Simpson and the Hope 2 Grow charity, residents filled two skips with rubbish, tidied their gardens and cleaned their streets. The day was part of Spectrum Signpost's estate strategy aimed at making Barnes Close a better place to live. Future plans include cutting back overgrown trees and hedges and improving a garage area and, building on the community spirit generated, an end-ofsummer fun afternoon. Neighbourhood Housing Officer Kate Townsend said: "We have made a big impact in a short time. I am impressed with the contribution made by our young volunteers and would like to say a big thanks to everyone who has taken part." The next Blandford Clean Up day will be on Saturday 15th September between 10am and noon. To take part as an individual
or group email cleanupblandford@hotmail.com, and for equipment and advice to organise your own community litter pick see http://cleanupblandford.org.uk.
River power for school? A PLAN to power Bryanston School from an Archimedes screw turbine installed on the weir on the river Stour in Bryanston Park is being considered by North Dorset District Council. The application for planning permission is submitted on behalf of the Crown Estate by Guy Galpin of Potential Energy Projects Ltd of Shepton Mallet, who says the scheme will provide up to 160mw hours a year, enough to supply the school and give surplus to the national grid. It is based on the weir which was built to supply the old pump house on the estate which took water and power from the river to what is now the school. It will incorporate a fish and eel pass to make the weir passable for migratory salmon and sea trout, so improving the aquatic environment.
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6,000 sign petition to oppose homes plan for meadows A PETITION signed by nearly 6,000 people - more than 60 per cent of Blandford's population was presented to the chief executive of North Dorset District Council on 20th August. The signatories, the vast majority of whom give local addresses, are objecting to the potential inclusion in the district's core strategy for future development of a site for up to 200 new homes on the Crown Meadows and Bryanston Deer Park. The Crown Estate, which owns more than 2,000 hectares forming the Bryanston estate, held a public consultation in January into its plans for a site well-known for its proximity to the flood plain of the river Stour. But the key objection from the mass of objectors, including the town council, local parish, district
and county councillors, the three main political parties, civic society and the CPRE, is to the introduction of hundreds of vehicles whose only access to the planned estate will be via the town's already congested oneway system. It is also viewed with alarm by those who see the site as an iconic feature in the town landscape, a haven for wildlife, flora and fauna, including the protected greater horseshoe bat. Campaigners against the proposal, led by the Bryanston Park Preservation Group, highlight a number of alternatives put forward in the draft core strategy to produce the 1,300 new homes considered necessary in the Blandford area to meet future housing requirements.
. . but Crown Estate Olympic duty for James refute flooding risk THE Crown Estate has answered concerns that recent flooding of the Stour heightens the potential flood risk for homes on the site. John Cook, chairman of the Bryanston Park Preservation Group which has canvassed for the petition to NDDC, claimed the height of the river at over 30 metres above sea level in a summer flood was too close to allow the building of up to 200 houses nearby. But the landowners say that despite the highest levels of rainfall in living memory and extensive flooding from the river, the proposed site for future housing has remained free from flooding. The Crown Estate has issued an illustration showing the extent of flooding compared with that of their proposal, maintaining that it takes issues such as flooding seriously and has asked its technical advisers, AMEC, to consider recent flood information provided by local residents in relation to the proposed site. The resulting information illustrated that the extent of flooding was still more than 100 metres
from the area of land being considered for development. Development options for the land at West Blandford, say the CE, ensure that all homes will be located in Zone 1, the area preferred by the Environment Agency for such uses, and therefore protected from an even more extreme 1 in 1,000year flood event by ensuring that all properties are above 35.38 metres AOD. Steve Melligan, strategic land manager at the Crown Estate, said: "Even after the extreme weather that we have seen recently, the West Blandford site has not been affected." Blandford's district councillors who attended North Dorset District Council's planning policy panel last month highlighted what they believed was a "degree of movement" in the stance of the local authority towards the scheme in its draft core strategy. Actions and amendments recommended included looking again at the suitability of the site for any development, the number of homes proposed, and the traffic impact.
A FORMER Durweston Primary and Milton Abbey school pupil now serving with the 5th Rifles found himself on a posting to envy, guarding the beach volleyball competitions in Horseguards Parade during the London 2012 Olympics. Rifleman James Cook, the grandson of James and Lexi Cook, of Bryanston Street, Blandford, had been serving in Paderborn, and was brought over to help when private security firm G4S failed to supply enough people to steward the events. Part of his duties included sitting in the VIP seats on his break when troops tried to fill the empty seats in the early days of the schedule. But he said the best bit was guarding the beach volleyball girls, particularly when Prime Minister David Cameron arrived with a plate of biscuits.
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Bad weather takes its toll on show entries
Arthur Yeo with the rocking horse which won the hobbies class and contributed to his overall win in handicrafts at the Blandford & District Horticultural Society Show.
UNSEASONAL weather may have been to blame for a reduced number of exhibitors for the 25th annual summer exhibition by the Blandford and District Horticultural Society. But one of the bonuses of the cool and the wet was a magnificent stand of fuchsias, including those in the anniversary class grown from plants supplied by Castle Gardens in Sherborne. Secretary Cyril Hovard said: "They don't like the heat but they do like plenty of rain. But it's been a very bad season and a lot of the classes have only one exhibit rather than four." Floral exhibitor Dave Eastment said the wet weather had contributed to a high number of snails which had devoured the blossom of dahlias and other flowers. But entries overall were up and organisers struggled to find enough tables to display them all in the Ann Biddlecombe Hall at Tarrant Keyneston. There were special anniversary classes in cake-making, flower and flower arranging sections, while wood-turner Arthur Yeo of Milborne St Andrew was a worthy winner of the handicrafts section with a rocking horse which had been 18 months in the making. Dave Miles successfully defended his
record with most points for flowers and vegetables, best in show, top tray, housewife's choice and best in the vegetable classes with a pair of cucumbers. Alan Newman won most points in all classes and the anniversary challenge for fuchsias, with Barry Gould taking most points in the flower classes and best gladioli awards. Other awards went to Mary Newman (most points flower arrangement), KT Billington (most points and best exhibit cookery), Rosemary Howland (wine) and Pete Eveleigh (photography).
Baby’s death POLICE were called to an address in Blandford, following the death of a baby girl. The baby was identified as fourmonth-old Jessica Stewart. An inquest opened by the West Dorset Coroner heard that the cause of death was unexplained. A 29-year-old woman and an 18year-old man were arrested. The man was later released and the woman was freed on police bail. Police are continuing with the investigation to ascertain what happened.
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Road name honours the Rifles THE naming of a new road in Blandford in honour of the Rifles infantry regiment was recognised in style when residents were joined by representatives of the regiment and town council at the formal naming ceremony. Among the party were Col Andrew Edwards, Rifles colonel for Dorset, and members of C Company, based in Dorchester, together with the Mayor of Blandford Sara Loch and deputy mayor Bob Brannigan, a retired lieutenant-colonel and garrison staff officer at the home of the Royal Signals at Blandford Camp. Miss Loch said the town had first granted the freedom to the Dorset Regiment in 1955 and streets were named in their honour. "In 1955 they became the Devonshire and Dorsets, who were granted the Freedom in 1983, and in 2007 when they became The Rifles we gave them the freedom. As a garrison town we are very pleased to name this street after the regiment." The street on the Badbury Heights estate was accorded the honour of becoming Rifles Way in accordance with the Town Council policy to name roads after their freemen. Col Edwards explained how the presence of Bugler WO2 Tony Cox was appropriate since the bugle was the symbol of the regiment and featured on the cap badge. "What you have done with us since 2007 to recognise your county regiment in the way you have has been fantastic, and our soldiers really appreciate the support they get back home," he said.
The naming party at the opening of Rifles Way on the Badbury Heights estate.
Rangers defend tree felling THE Countryside Rangers, who manage the North Dorset Trailway and Milldown as well as other areas of open space, have defended their proposals and work to remove trees from the Marsh and Ham and trailway through Blandford. The plans to fell a total of 18 trees on the Marsh and Ham met with opposition from town councillors at their planning meeting at the end of July when town council tree officer Mike Owen said: "I think it is totally unnecessary. They chopped down the trees along the trailway prompting a letter of concern from a member of the public. "The reason for it is tidiness - they are not in anyone's way, they are not diseased. But to say they are restricting the view of the river Stour is ridiculous." Councillor Harold Galpin was the only member not to support the opposition to the proposal, saying that while some of the poplars might be kept, a number of alder stems were unimportant. Councillor Hugo Mieville said: "The rangers think it will look bet-
Bakery hopes rising KEEP your eyes peeled for a pop-up bakery in Blandford over the next few months, with the first due to appear in October. The pop-up bakery will feature bread baked by local enthusiasts with the aim of testing the market for Real Bread baked in the town, sold at down-to-earth prices. Real Bread contains only water, flour, yeast and salt, whereas supermarket bread can often contain a range of additives and preservatives and is never baked 'in store' from start to finish. Records show that in 1901, with a population of 4,000 people, Blandford managed to support six bakers and confectioners. Now, with a population of around 10,000, there is not a commercial bakery in the town. The pop-up bakery is one of the first steps being taken by a group of locals to see whether Blandford could be home to a community-supported bakery. The pop-up bakery could appear at events such as markets, charity events and the Yuletide Festival. If you are interested in this project then please contact either Julie or Sarah at the DT11 Forum Community Partnership, 5 Nightingale Court, Blandford, Dorset, DT11 7ED. Tel: 01258 489998, email: office@dt11forum.org.uk
ter but it's very easy to take the opposite view. I thought we were in the business of retaining trees, not chopping them down." Ranger Graham Stanley, after the meeting, defended their manage-
ment scheme for the site, saying the trees, both on the Marsh and Ham and on the trailway, had received no attention for a number of years and were in need of maintenance.
Name that roundabout NAMES have been suggested by town councillors for the roundabouts on the Blandford bypass in response to a request from Dorset County Council. Tin Pot or Sunrise is suggested for the Higher Shaftesbury Road roundabout, Two Gates (signifying a choice of routes) or Signallers on Wimborne Road, and Hill Top for the Salisbury Road roundabout. Clarification is being sought from DCC on how money collected from companies advertising on the roundabouts will be used.
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Breast is best, say mums MORE than 20 young mums and their babies who gathered at the Blandford Children's Centre were part of a successful world record breaking bid to get the most mothers ever breastfeeding at one time. The Big Latch On formed part of World Breastfeeding Week, raising awareness of the benefits of breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby's life as recommended by the World Health Organisation to decrease the risk of childhood and adult disease. It also highlighted the work of the 'Bosom Buddies' at the SureStart centre in Black Lane, Blandford, to encourage and help first-time and more experienced mums to share their experience and avoid the sense of isolation that motherhood can bring. Group leader Sarah Pottinger, with a babe in arms herself, said: "Mums can come here to meet in a relaxed atmosphere with their babies and toddlers. This group was the first in the country and meets from 10.30am on Fridays for everyone, whether breastfeeding or not."
NEWS in BRIEF Wider pavement WORK could start in November to widen the pavement in the lower part of Whitecliff Mill Street above the Kings Arms. Town councillors expressed the hope it would not prejudice the possibility of making the higher part of the street two-way.
Quality council
Mums 'latching-on' for a world breastfeeding record at the Blandford Children's Centre. In 2011, 5,687 women participated in The Big Latch-on, first staged in New Zealand in 2005, and Sarah confirmed following the event that this year 8,862 had registered and taken part in 23 countries. SureStart centre manager Amanda Davies said:
"Breastfeeding is one of the many ways in which we can support families. Children do not come with a manual and in a rural area particularly it is so important that mums do not feel isolated. We have our own minibus for those who don't have transport to bring them in from the villages."
BLANDFORD Town Council has been reaccredited as a Quality Council. The accreditation will last for four years, and members were told that the council's portfolio submission had been described as exemplary.
Festival diary date BLANDFORD's Yuletide Festival will be held on Wednesday December 12th. Application is being made for a road closure in the town centre between 4pm and 10pm that day.
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Landmark birthday for former church stalwart A TEA party and entertainment was laid on at the Blandford Grange Care Home on 20th July for resident Bert Hughes to celebrate his 90th birthday. Fellow residents joined him, friends, family and guests as he cut a beautifully iced cake and drank a glass of bubbly with staff who have cared for him since he moved from Philip Road to become one of the first to live in the new home in November 2010. Guest of honour was the Mayor Sara Loch, who came in her civic role but also as church
warden at Blandford Forum Parish Church and a friend to Bert, who when he came to Blandford became the church's parish administrator, a role he filled for many years. She said: "It was a role he carried out with great kindness and friendliness, and for which the church community is particularly grateful." Born in Cleobury Mortimer, near Ludlow, in 1922, the son of a farmer, he began his extensive travels by joining the Army and serving Field Marshal Montgomery as his chef.
After the war he joined the NAAFI forces shop and continued his travels all over the world, to bases including Christmas Island, Gibraltar, Egypt and Germany. His last posting in Germany was at the NAAFI at Joint Headquarters Rheindahlen where he was in charge of the food hall with a staff of nearly 100. The proximity of Blandford Camp made Blandford the ideal place to settle when he returned to the UK. In his spare time he liked nothing better than gardening.
Milldown receives Green Flag for the fifth year running THE Milldown Local Nature Reserve in Blandford has been awarded a prestigious Green Flag for the fifth consecutive year identifying it as one of the best in the country. It confirms that the open space, owned and managed by North Dorset District Council and Dorset Countryside Ranger Service, is well-maintained and well-managed with excellent facilities. Cllr Michael Roake, portfolio holder for environment at North Dorset District Council, said: "To be awarded a Green Flag five years in a row is a truly remarkable achievement. It reflects the dedication of the Rangers and community volunteers who maintain the Milldown as an ideal location for people to enjoy picnics, exercise, wildlife and the superb views." Giles Nicholson, Senior Ranger, said: "To be awarded a Green Flag again demonstrates the high standards we provide for visitors
to this important Local Nature Reserve, the hard work from the Rangers and support from visitors and the community." The site has a rich variety of woodland, scrub, grassland and downland, favouring many invertebrates, especially butterflies and moths, and a wealth of other wildlife, particularly in an area of unimproved chalk grassland known as the Hangings, a site of nature conservation interest. The Milldowners are a group of users dedicated to preserving this precious resource for local people and are looking for volunteers to fill the positions of secretary and treasurer. Neither position involves much time but will benefit from enthusiasm for developing the organisation. Details of the group's aims and objectives can be found at www.themilldowners.org.uk and applications can be made to J.D. Astin, Chairman, Methody, Water Lane, Durweston, DT11 0QA.
Celebrating the Green Flag for the Milldown are the North Dorset Rangers, community supporters and representatives of North Dorset District Council.
Bert Hughes celebrates his 90th birthday at the Grange Nursing Home in Blandford with Mayor of Blandford Sara Loch.
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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
Make the most of your special day IT is likely to be the biggest day in your life - and one of the most stressful. So how can you go about easing that stress and making the whole wedding-day experience easier for yourself and your nearest and dearest? Choosing the right people to perform key tasks and to supply your needs is the best way forward, so start by thinking local. Making life easier means taking advantage of the specialist help available as the big day approaches, turning to people whose job it is to ensure everything runs smoothly. The to-do list and the need to make decisions can combine to make life fraught with difficulty. It starts with setting the date, then there's picking the best man and bridesmaids, finding and booking the ideal venue, choosing the dress, selecting the rings (remember, you may want them engraved), sorting out the invitations, deciding on the style and venue for the reception. A whole new world of professional
services can open up to you as you enter the realm of dressmakers and hirers, specialist dry-cleaners, hair stylists and beauticians, cake bakers, vehicle providers, stationery designers, gift providers and photographers. And don't forget that while you're out enjoying your big day, your pets might like to share it with you. Muddy Puddles Dorset, as featured in the July issue of Forum Focus, will chaperone your pets while you make your vows and mingle with your guests. Looking your absolute best for the day can be left safely in the hands of Blandford Health & Beauty Centre, which provides a wide range of beauty salon treatments from face
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and body massaging with the latest products, to a full body tan. It is committed to providing a worldclass service to remember for ever. Clients who are busy during the day can take advantage of the beauty centre's late-night opening on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. How you are turned out will speak volumes about you, so make sure everyone in the wedding party is neat and tidy, from grandpa right down to the smallest pageboy. Impressed, the Blandford dry-cleaners, will have you all looking immaculate with creases in only the right places. Horrocks & Webb, a leading local jeweller with over 50 years' experience of the trade, was established in the town nearly 12 years ago. They are keen to offer both traditional and exciting new ideas along with their professional and friendly service. For couples in the Blandford area, there is a range of premises that are licensed to conduct marriage ceremonies, including the Crown at Blandford, the Langton Arms at Tarrant Monkton, Milton Abbey, Chettle House, the Springhead Trust at Fontmell Magna, Edmonsham House, and the Victorian Barn at Woolland. And you don't have to look far to find a wedding planner to guide you,
someone who increasing numbers of brides turn to in an effort to take much of the stress out of the organisation. Francesca Bethell, events executive at the Crown, says there has been a noticeable growth in the trend for Friday weddings, thanks to Prince William and Kate Middleton's Friday ceremony last year. They are now almost as popular as a Saturday wedding, she says. Francesca adds: "Wedding peak season for us now tends to be April to June, with July and August fairly quiet, possibly because the weather isn't as guaranteed as it used to be." The Crown Hotel is staging a wedding fair on September 23rd when it will be promoting its special 2013 offer of a wedding for 60 guests for only ÂŁ2,013 to include room hire, chair covers, dedicated wedding coordination, a welcome drink, three-course meal, wine and toast bubbly. It offers everything a couple might need for their wedding day in one neat package. The fair, to be held in the Sealy Suite between 10am and 3pm will feature a dozen exhibitors showing wedding-related stationery and jewellery, photography, catering, dressmaking and costume hire, and there will be a chance to check out the facilities at the Crown itself, including the new mirror wall in the Sealy Suite.
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FOCUS on sport
Above: Kieran Young led from the start in the 25th annual run in support of the Dorset Blind Association and Friends of Blandford Community Hospital. (Above right): As did Davy Turner, aged 13, in the children's one-mile event.
Rain holds off for 25th running of the Valley 10k ORGANISERS of the 25th annual Tarrant Valley 10 were lucky to have the only dry day of the week for the 10k event on July 15th. The race started and finished at the Langton Arms, Tarrant Monkton, and although the course was muddy, there was a good turnout for the run, held this year in support of Dorset Blind Association and the Friends of Blandford Community Hospital. Men's winners were Kieran Young of Bristol and West, who was also first in the 17+ age group (35.35), Robert Clark of Tarrant Monkton (37.23) and Steve Claxton of Tarrant Monkton, Poole Runners (38.04), with Dorset Doddlers' Reece Ingram (38.16) a close fourth and over-50s winner Ian Pollard (38.43) sixth overall.
First three ladies were Sarah Chaloner of Poole AC (42.26), Judith Vlaarklamp of Lytchett Manor Striders (45.23) and Mel Carroll of Poole Runners (52.18). In the children's one-mile race, first boy was Davy Turner, aged 13, (4.45), first girl Alex Daplyn, aged 11, (5.30), first under-10 boy Robert Jones, aged 8, (5.27) and first under-10 girl Lily Jones, aged 7, (6.28). Sponsors included Dorset Doddlers, Launceston Farm, Imago Developments, Sunrise Service & MoT Centre, Tarhinton Farms Ltd, Abbot and Slater, Piddle Brewery, CLP Computer Supplies, Dragonfly Networks, Intermusic, Jonathan White & Associates. Full results can be found on http://tarrantvalley10.webs.com
Blandford Bowling Club's junior members who competed for the Astin Trophy, with back (3rd from right) the eventual winner Josh Traves, and (front left) junior winner Joe Traves.
Junior bowlers show skills THE junior section of Blandford Bowling Club contested the Astin Trophy, presented in 1999 by the late Alan Astin, a former club president. The competition, arranged by
Steve Clayton, was a fun event that tested the skills of the young bowlers. There were six tests ranging from target bowls to knocking down skittles and nearest the jack. All the contestants had attended the junior bowls coaching course which has been held on Saturday mornings. The trophy was won by Josh Traves with Alice Couling runnerup. The Junior Novice Trophy was won by Joe Traves and the runner-up was Jamie Wood. Club captain Tony Ives is keen to attract junior bowlers and has initiated a programme of coaching courses and bringing bowling to local schools. The weather was kind to the Bowling Club as 20 bowlers met to contest the President's Handicap Trophy when winners and runners-up of each round robin league went on to a knockout format. Semi-finalists were Keith Pearce against Bob Trethewey and Peter Preen against Brian Simonds. Keith and Brian were victorious and went on to contest a very close final in which Brian was the winner.
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FOCUS on charities
Jiveathon organisers Donna (left) and Philly (right), with Della Jones of Dorset Cancer Research UK.
Jivers raise £1,500 DORSET Cancer Research UK patron Della Jones received a cheque for £1,500 raised at a 12hour Jiveathon Marathon. The event was staged by two women at the Hamworthy club in Merley and supported by participants from Blandford and surrounding villages, as well as from as far afield as Gosport, Southampton, Salisbury and Swindon. "I went and started the Jiveathon for them and it was magical to see the dancers of all ages performing some intricate and fiery moves, and dancing to some truly old-fashioned jive music," said Mrs Jones.
"It brought back many happy memories of my mis-spent youth! The dresses of the dancers were all very 50s and 60s romantic flowing style - truly magical. "My daughter Louise ran a stall selling CRUK merchandise and another friend ran a cake stall to help feed the competitors and sell to wellwishers, which all helped towards the grand total." A similar event is being planned for the New Year, for which a target of £3,000 has been set. Mrs Jones recently celebrated her 80th birthday with a garden party at her home in Winterborne Zelston. A collection raised another £132.70 for Cancer Research UK.
Fabrics mean funds DONATIONS are being sought for a fabric sale to raise funds for Naomi House and Jack's Place hospices, which cater for the lifethreatened children and the young people of seven counties, including Wiltshire and Dorset. June Davey and friends are asking people to look through their sewing baskets, cupboards and lofts to de-clutter their homes and recycle for the charity by contributing unused fabric of any length, which could be used for anything from patchwork to curtains or clothes. "We also hope to sell haberdashery, buttons, tapestry kits, knitting needles, balls of wool, curtains,
unopened pots of paint and new rolls of wallpaper," said Mrs Davey. "Please help us to help these children and give respite and care to them and their families." The sale will be at Tarrant Keynston village hall, on Saturday, 22nd September, 10am-4pm. Light refreshments will be available. There is also a possibility of renting space for a fabric-related stall. Nigel Sheppard of Symonds and Sampson has kindly agreed to be the local drop-off point for Blandford from where Mrs Davey will collect donated items. For further information, contact her on 01258 830377.
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September 2012
Castleman pride in achieving Beacon status
Care home fees can be simply avoided A legal view, by Jeremy Dodge, of Blanchards Bailey IT has come as no surprise to my colleagues and me that the Government has blocked the independent Dilnot Commission's Fairer Care Funding report which recommended a cap on the amount an individual should have to pay towards their social care. The Government considers such a cap unaffordable. The generally accepted view is that one in 10 of us can expect to face care costs of more than £100,000. We know from the bitter experience of an increasing number of our clients and their families that, with care home fees approaching £1,000 a week, many people will pay a lot more than £100,000. The good news is that simple steps can be taken by couples to protect at least half of their assets from care home fees. To a large degree payment of care home fees is optional and the key is to plan ahead. If you, your parents or other family members have not already taken these relatively simple but effective steps, please contact Jerome Dodge on 01258 483616 or email Jerome.dodge@blanchardsbailey.co.uk for further information.
Manager Jan Thorne (left) and staff Kim Trowbridge (standing) and Jan Phillips, who acted as Gold Standard Framework co-ordinators at Castleman House in Blandford, which has earned Beacon status.
STAFF and residents at Castleman House, a residential care home in Blandford, were in party spirit on 20th July when they celebrated the highest award of Beacon status in the Gold Standard Framework scheme for endof-life care. They were joined by Andrew Archibald, head of community services at Dorset County Council, and Hilary Lawson, end-of-life care facilitator, who has guided the home's GSF co-ordinators Kim Trowbridge and Jan Phillips through the qualification procedure. Mr Archibald said that four of the seven county care homes in Dorset have now qualified under the framework, but Beacon status was the best they could get. Home manager Jan Thorne said it was a privilege to be in the post which she has held for the last 12 months, after starting as an evening care assistant, and that the Beacon status was something which could not have been achieved without the co-operation of her staff. "This is a fantastic home and I can't tell you how proud I am to have got it. Jan and Kim have been absolute stars," she said.
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September 2012
FOCUS on arts
Shakespeare comes from Stratford to the village pub car park THE days when travelling players toured the country to perform in market places and public houses were brought back to the White Horse at Stourpaine by the Shooting Stars Theatre Company. The Stratford Fringe 2012 awardwinners, for their production of Shakespeare's 'Much Ado About Nothing', featured in one of the key roles Joe Sargent, the son of White Horse licensee Chris Sargent. Joe is also a familiar face in the Westcountry, having appeared several times at the Swan and Octagon Theatre in Yeovil and in a number of popular TV series. The enterprising Chris Sargent, who has already introduced a successful village store and post office to his pub, invited Joe, director Helen Crosse and company to take a break from their tour of venues in Stratford, London and the Home Counties to perform in the Dorset pub car park. A sparkling performance produced a standing ovation for the cast and company.
Actor Joe Sargent’s father, Chris, licensee of the White Horse at Stourpaine, introduces the Shooting Stars’ production of Much Ado About Nothing.
New author holds book-signing
The audience, under cover and seated on hay bales of hay in the White Horse car park, enjoyed the production.
LOCAL author Marian Matthews is holding a book launch and signing session at Blandford Library on Saturday 22nd September, between 2pm and 4pm, for her newly published first book, 'Aspects of Reality - a user's guide to the universe'. Marian seeks in her book to combine science with spirituality and philosophy to make complex issues on the nature of reality accessible for everyone. The book is available from Archive Publishing on 01202 848352 or via www.transpersonalbooks.com. Marian is available to give talks and may be contacted on 01258 456397.
Am-drams plan a murderous night of fun and mystery BLANDFORD Amateur Dramatics (BAD) is alive, well and kicking following the departure of its founder, Lee Harris, for St Albans. Under the temporary chairmanship of Clive Newlin, plans have been drawn up for the year, which include a Murder Mystery night in the United Reformed Church Hall on 17th November. Written by Helen Hakimzadeh with the title ‘A Fete Worse Than Death’, it is an audience participation performance, with the hall arranged as a village fete in the 1920s. Auditions are on Monday 3rd September in the URC hall at 7.30pm for anyone wishing to join the cast playing important parts in the story to help the audience guess the identity of the murderer. Volunteers are being asked to help backstage with setting up the hall, dressing it in 1920s style, and organising costumes and catering. Voluntary help is also needed with publicity for the show – just attend on audition night to get more information.
Big prizes elude arts show entrants THE Blandford area produced no trophy winners when the 98th annual exhibition of the Dorset Arts and Crafts Association was held at Bovington Middle School in early August. But there were plenty of local exhibitors, including last year's quilting winner Roy Dickinson, of Blandford, who was restricted to entering the champion of champions competition. Sue Hutchings, of Charlton Marshall, the newly appointed fine arts director for the exhibition, gave daily demonstrations of her work as an artist and displayed certificates and awards received in the past from the association.
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September 2012
FOCUS on schools
A mass start for one of the events in the schools Festival of Sport at Blandford Camp.
The Olympic ideals reflected in Festival of Sport OLYMPIC ideals of excellence, friendship and respect were at the centre of a Festival of Sport for students from the Blandford Schools' Network held at the Blandford Camp on 11th and 12th July. The first day involved Years 3, 4 and 5 in activities including Quicksticks, hockey, Quadkid, athletics and rounders. Sports lead-
ers from The Blandford School helped to run the event. Day two saw Years 6 to 10 taking part in similar activities with the addition of street netball and street football. Unfortunately the weather brought Day 2 to an early close. Jill Bailey, sports co-ordinator, said: "So close to the Olympics these two days were
designed to give students a taste of what it might be like to be competing. "The students wore different coloured t-shirts to reflect the teams they were representing and these were all named after the Continents. All competitors were wonderfully behaved and,despite the weather, enjoyed themselves."
A classic story of gangs and romance
Some of the cast members of The Blandford School production of West Side Story.
NEARLY 50 Blandford School students and musicians from the local community took part in a production of the classic musical Romeo and Juliet tragedy, West Side Story, which was sponsored by Chesterton Humberts and supported by the Blandford & District Lions Club. Matinees and evening performances on 19th and 20th July were open to the public, who saw the two feuding street gangs in 1950s New York, the Sharks and the Jets. White American Jets member Tony, played by Joel Mariner from year 10, and Maria, the sister of a Puerto Rican Shark, played by Zoe Hickson from year 11, fall in love at a dance at a gym.
They know they cannot be together because of the war between the gangs, but that doesn't prevent their star-crossed love-match from leading to tragedy. Speaking about this year's production, Becky Mutimer, head of performing and creative arts, said: "We are really pleased with how this year's show came together. The students had a relatively short but concentrated time to learn their lines and dance routines, to minimise the effect on the main curriculum. "We were really fortunate to have the support of Chesterton Humberts and the musicians, some of whom travelled more than 20 miles to take part."
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September 2012
A garden setting for prom
FOCUS on schools
THE Blandford School's annual Sixth Form Prom took place on a balmy summer's evening at the Italian Gardens, Compton Acres, near Bournemouth. The students enjoyed a lovely evening in wonderful surroundings to celebrate the end of their academic life at the school. Many staff members attended and were impressed, not only by the venue, but also by the impeccable behaviour of the students. Presentations took place, with several teachers and tutors receiving gifts from the Prom Committee. Helen Garner, sixth-form transition and progression co-ordinator, said: "We managed to choose the one sunny evening that week and this helped to make it a wonderful occasion for those in a really special year group who never fail to show courtesy and respect to Sixth-formers from The Blandford School gather for their end-of-term prom at Compton Acres. staff and each other."
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September 2012
Up the garden path An occasional series of articles with a gardening theme. With Heather and Elaine from the Blandford Museum Jubilee Garden DAVID Ivor Green's initials gave him the name for his business Digwells, the garden shop which was started in 1986 just off the Market Place in Blandford town centre. David was a Dorset country boy with a keen interest in plants developing as he grew up. After working in the building trade he set up as a landscape gardener and gained a good local reputation for his work. When an opportunity arose to rent land from local businessman David Cherrit, David saw the opportunity to start a small plant nursery and shop adjacent to the current shop site, erecting sheds and greenhouses to enable him
to grow many of the plants he sold. David took the chance to buy some nearby derelict property, renovating empty store rooms for a new nursery and two town houses, one of which he still lives in with his partner Wendy. The present garden shop building is said to date back to about 1730, escaping destruction by the Great Fire of 1731. The shop stocks a wide range of garden products, sundries and plants, drawing regular customers from as far away as Sherborne and Poole. The attraction for many customers is the chance to buy as little or as much as they need by way of loose vegetable and grass
seed, potato tubers, bird food and fresh eggs. They also value the experienced horticultural advice given by both David and Wendy and the good-quality plants. With the opening of a superstore on the edge of town about ten
years ago, Digwells' customer numbers have dropped by about half. However, many return regularly for an old-style service and there are many local residents who prefer to support a truly local business.
Rotary pledges to support local youth THE new president of the Rotary Club of Blandford, Martin 'Nic' Nicol, has pledged its support to
the youth of the town, describing them as 'the future of Blandford'. "We want to help them achieve
their potential and to provide support to those who need assistance," he said when he took over from retiring president Vic Chippendale at the start of a new Rotary year. Under its banner of 'Service above self', Blandford Rotary is planning an ambitious programme to support both local and international communities, and one of the main priorities will be supporting local young people. "We already run a variety of young people's projects, such as the Rotary Young Chef competition, the annual Young Musician of the Year competition, the 'Youth Speaks' public speaking event and the 'Kids Out' day at Paultons Park for children with
special needs," he said. "We want to extend our work with young people by getting more involved with the schools and organisations like Youth Aid, Treads and the Youth Club." The club recently presented cheques totalling ÂŁ1,770 to the Blandford Cub Scouts and 1st Woodcutts Scouts, part of the proceeds from the successful Jubilee Festival in June. The two scout groups made a magnificent contribution by supplying and manning a wide range of fun activities and stalls. The club is already planning the next Blandford Spring Festival, which will take place on Bank Holiday Monday, 27th May in the Sealy Suite and gardens of the Crown Hotel.
Blandford Rotary President Nic Nicol presents a cheque to Assistant Cub Leader Karen King and members of the Portman Cub Pack, part of the Blandford Scout Group.
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September 2012
FOCUS on service
Fundraisers provide a double boost for life-saving chances TWO new defibrillators have been presented to organisations in Blandford to improve the chances of life-saving first-aid to local residents. The Blandford School was on the receiving end of a presentation, by the Blandford & District Lions, of equipment costing ÂŁ1,275, purchased by them and supplied by South West Ambulance Services. The necessary addition to their medical supply kit is dedicated to former pupil Ben Andrews, the teenager who died in a road accident near Blandford earlier this year, and whose mother, Samantha, is a member of Blandford Lions. The presentation took place during the interval of the end-of-term production of West Side Story at the school, with which the Lions have had a strong association. A recently formed Alpha Leo (Junior Lions) club based at the school is designed to attract under-18s into membership. Others interested in joining Blandford Lions or learning more about what they do should contact Tony Ives, club secretary, on 01929 472336. A second defibrillator was presented to the Blandford St John
Ambulance First Responders group on the occasion of a training and enrolment event at the Farquharson Arms in Pimperne. Mac McLaughlin, deputy chairman of the Friends of Blandford Community Hospital, attended to officially hand over the equipment and associated accessories which had been purchased by the Friends. Mr McLaughlin expressed on behalf of the Friends their sincere thanks to the people of Blandford and Sturminster Newton for their continued support and generosity to their two charity shops and their fundraising events held throughout the year which has enabled the Friends in the last 12 months to distribute ÂŁ60,000 to local health-related community organisations. He also thanked all the volunteers of the First Responders Group for the help they have given to the community and the lives they have saved, saying he was assured that the new equipment will enable their teams to be better prepared to continue their service in supporting the local ambulance service. To join Blandford Responders Division (aged over 18) contact Jackie Vacher on 07879003567.
Mac McLaughlin, deputy chairman of the Friends of Blandford Community Hospital, presents a defibrillator purchased by the Friends to Jackie Vacher of the Blandford First Responders.
Vulnerable people in need of friends A NEW befriending scheme has been launched in Blandford to offer vulnerable people in and around the town help with simple everyday tasks. The scheme to provide lowlevel support to people at home, helping them remain independent and preventing social isolation, has been developed by Dorset Partnership for Older People Programme (POPP), WRVS and NHS Dorset.
Can you help cancer patients? DORSET Advocacy is looking for volunteers to be part of a peer advocacy scheme to empower older people affected by cancer to have a more assertive voice. Volunteers are being recruited to train for the role which, in partnership with MacMillan Cancer Support, will offer advocacy support to over-50s who are struggling to cope with the major life-changing experience that cancer brings. Patients, carers and people who know of someone affected by cancer will become independent peer advocates so they can access the treatment they need, help them make informed decisions about treatment, care and to access the curative treat-
ments they need. All volunteers involved in the project will need to complete a MacMillan online training course, a self study course taking about two hours to complete. They will be comprehensively trained and will be able to claim normal expenses. For information on how to become a volunteer advocate for any of the projects and how to apply call 01305 251033 and speak to Chris Harker (Volunteer Co-ordinator), or visit the Dorset Advocacy website www.dorsetadvocacy.co.uk to download an application form. All applicants will require two references and will be CRB checked.
They identified that there were people in the town and surrounding area who could benefit from help to hear about local news, do their shopping, or give a carer respite time. Launched last October and supported by Volunteer Centre, Dorset, it allows individuals to ask for help, and healthcare professionals, friends and family members to refer people to a local co-ordinator who works with a team of volunteers to find the skills to best fulfil the requirement. Everyone who applies to be a friend will receive training and ongoing support, including being CRB checked. Those interested in getting involved can contact the coordinator on 07736 825287 or speak to Lisa Knight at NHS Dorset on 01305 368900.
For more news & pictures go to the Forum Focus website www.forumfocus.co.uk
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September 2012
FOCUS on groups
Carnival will see re-run of the torch
Blandford Civic Society members outside Silk Hay, the Stalbridge home of author Hilary Townsend.
A trip back in time for civic society members FOURTEEN members of Blandford and District Civic Society travelled to Stalbridge for a guided tour of Silk Hay, an historic house in the centre of the town which can trace its roots
back to medieval times. Owner Hilary Townsend has spent the last 30 years restoring the property, and re-discovering its history, its architecture and the trials and tribulations of dealing with builders and conservation legislation. Civic Society chairman Peter Warrington said: "At the end of her very instructive and entertaining guided tour, I bought a copy of the book which I have since read with interest. "I rather wish I had read it before our visit, because I would have known more about what to look out for." The society is keen to organise more visits to historic venues. For information call 01258 459346. Silk Hay by Hilary Townsend, is published by Matador, priced ÂŁ9.99. ISBN 9781780881461
APOLOGIES to Kate Sanderson of Dorchester, and to our future Queen, for a royal gaff in last month's Forum Focus when we reported that it was Kate Middleton who carried the torch through Blandford town centre on July 12th. The gremlins got in to transpose their surnames and we would like to reassure the public that the Duchess of Cambridge was not trying to upstage her mother-inlaw in the Olympic opening ceremony. Kate Sanderson earned her place as a torch-bearer through her commitment to netball in Dorset and for her support to her father in his battle against cancer. There could be another chance to see her in action when Blandford's Olympic torch bearer Jack Delaney takes part in the Blandford Carnival parade on Saturday September 8th. Jack has invited his fellow torch bearers to join him and has so far secured the promises of six of them to carry the torch through the town. Jack, 17, of The Blandford School, said: "I have always wanted to be part of the carnival and now I have a chance. It will be an opportunity for those who couldn't make the torch day to see the torch bearers and have their photo taken. "We are involving schoolchildren and the U Support charity, which offers experiences to children who are disabled, disadvantaged or suffering life-limiting conditions, by attending sporting and cultural events throughout the UK." Jack's 13-year-old brother Michael will the following Saturday be running in the junior
Kizzy Miller is Blandford's 2012 Carnival Princess who will be taking part in the parade. Great North Run in Newcastle for U Support, to which Jack is the charity's ambassador. Also taking pride of place in this year's parade will be Carnival Princess, ten-year-old Kizzy Miller, of Richmond Road, Blandford, a pupil of Archbishop Wake Primary School, her attendants Amelie Ball, aged 7, and Kaylee Lake, aged 9, both pupils at Milldown Primary, and Miss Teenager Shannon Greaves. It is hoped, with our Diamond Jubilee Queen Val Cowley will also take part. The floats will be leaving Holland Way just after 7pm and heading out up Salisbury Street, along Kings Road, down St Leonards Avenue into Wimborne Road, East Street and the Market Place. Let's give them a resounding reception and keep the Olympic and Jubilee flags flying for the Carnival in 2012.
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September 2012
Public recognition for a gathering of young heroes YOUNGSTERS from the Blandford area were rewarded for their efforts and courage when the cream of Dorset's youth was recognised at the Great Dorset Steam Fair Young Heroes awards. They had been nominated by their schools and individuals for their achievements in education, sport, care in the home and community and bravery in the face of illness. The scheme was established by steam fair founder Mike Oliver. The top President's award of the Michael Oliver Trophy, presented by Mr Oliver's widow Jean, went to a 15-year-old pupil of the Gryphon School in Sherborne, Cyrus Vahidi, for his courage in facing a diagnosis of a rare form of cancer, osteosarcoma. Among the other awards presented at the ceremony in Sturminster
FOCUS on youth
Newton Exchange by steam fair managing director Martin Oliver and members of the judging panel, chaired by Della Jones, were: Flinn Sessions, 11, of Winterborne Zelston, for his service to the village community; Nat Thorne, 15, of Shillingstone, for his achievement in soccer refereeing and dedication to sport; and runners-up Tilly-Sunshine Hunt, 11, of Durweston School, for her contribution to her school; and to Felix Morris-Duffin, 17, of the Blandford School for his work in the community. Highly commended for education and drama was Amelia Tanner, 17; for dedication John McGuiness, 18; and for sport Emily Sym, 17, John McCarthy, 15, and Greg Hart, 17, all of The Blandford School; and, Abbi Smith, 11, for sport and service to Durweston School.
Blandford Scouts and Explorers at the top of Snowdon.
Scouts climb to meet a triple challenge A GROUP of youngsters involved in scouting in Blandford have returned victorious from their summer camp after climbing the Three Peaks in three days. Youngest of the 13 Scouts and Explorers taking part was 11 and the oldest 17. They completed the 1085 metres of Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales, in five-and-a-half hours. Scafell Pike in the Lake District, the highest point in England at 978 metres, took six-and-a-half hours, and Ben Nevis, the highest point in Scotland and in the UK at 1344 metres, was shrouded in mist and not all the group were able to complete the climb, but those who did took seven hours. Afterwards the Scouts were also involved in geo caching, segways, canyoning, rope climbing, map reading and navigation skills.
Treads needs offers of help
Winners at the Great Dorset Steam Fair Young Heroes Awards presentation.
WITHIN the next few weeks Treads youth information centre is hoping to open its doors to the Blandford Job Club, which will join the Citizens Advice Bureau, Shelter and the Dorset Credit Union in the new community service centre in Bere's Yard. The collaborative approach enables Treads, established to provide advice, information and guidance to people aged 11-19, to harness the skills necessary to help them stand on their own feet while also benefiting other members of the community to overcome challenges. Treads needs volunteers to share their skills and talents to help others. If you enjoy fundraising, have administrative experience, can offer practical skills that would be useful to Treads and the people they support, or just want to give something back to the community, contact Treads at admin@treads.org.uk. Offers of short-term assistance or with one-off events are as also appreciated.
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September 2012
Skatefest takes off! AS the rest of the world watched the final events of the London Olympics, scores of youngsters from Blandford and across the county held their own demonstration and celebration of sporting skills on the Blandford skate park on Stour Meadows. The Blandford Skatefest took place on Friday to Sunday, August 10th to 12th, when the young-
Picture courtesy of Scott Traversari
sters exhibited all the speed and agility, respect for each other's achievement and care for their welfare as had been displayed during London 2012. But despite BMX now being an Olympic sport, there was no suggestion that the thrills and spills of skateboarding and rollerblading should become part of the Olympiad. One young participant declared: "This is an extreme sport which should never be subject to the rules and regulations of the Olympics." Freestyle sessions and competitions took place under the watchful eye of volunteers from Blandford Youth Centre and members of Blandford Boards and Blades, the group who campaigned for a state-of-the-art extreme sports facility in the town provided nearly 10 years ago by the town council. The promised accompanying workshops and games to which a grant of £835 was awarded to Blandford Area Youth Centre by the town council was absent, apart from the presence of the centre's Outreach Bus, a barbecue and a few other activities. But area youth leader Andy Price, for whom the skatefest ended a three-week programme of events for young people staged by the youth centre, said: "It was the first skatefest in a number of years and a trial run for what should be a bigger event next year. We withdrew some of the workshop activity when we realised it was basically a mini-fest." Organiser Lewis Blackburn said: "Overall the day was great. We did feel let down as it wasn't as big as it could have been but I am happy with the effort put in, and it was a good experience."
Help for over-50s A FREE drop-in event with a variety of information stalls of benefit to anyone over the age of 50 and family carers is being held on Saturday, 15th September, from 9.30am to noon in the Corn Exchange. A variety of service providers ranging from home improvement support to memory advisors will have stands and refreshments will be available. The event has been organised by Blandford Area Fiftyplus, an independent forum that aims to promote the involvement, empowerment and improvement of quality of life for all 50+ residents in the area. For more information, call Val on 01258 489368.
Cabaret evening AS part of its series of 65th anniversary events, the Dorset Rural Music School is hosting a cabaret evening and concert in the Corn Exchange on Saturday 29th September. It follows events including a folk music workshop, a concert at Port Regis School, and a concert at Hamworthy Social Club by the Wimborne Orchestra. For details call 01258 452511 or go to www.drms-music.co.uk.
Forum Focus - forthcoming meetings & events SEPTEMBER Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd September: final two days of the Great Dorset Steam Fair, gates open 8am, evening rate from 5pm, reduced prices Sunday. Buses from Marsh and Ham car park in Blandford Monday 3rd September: Blandford & District Floral group meets United Reformed Church Hall, 2.15pm. Demonstration by Gretchen White, 'Nature's Contrasts'. Visitors £4, membership £15, raffle, cup of tea and biscuits Monday 3rd Septemer: Blandford Amateur Dramatics auditions for forthcoming murder mystery evening, United Reformed Church Hall, 7.30pm Tuesday 4th September: BFPC Allsorts Craft Club, Parish Centre, 6.45-8.30, all welcome for a chat about crafts and a cuppa, £1.50 Wednesday 5th September: Carnival Bingo, Corn Exchange. Support your local Carnival in the lead-up Saturday 8th September: Blandford Carnival - parade from 7pm, Holland Way to the Market Place Saturday 8th September: Open day, Blandford Fashion Museum, as part of Architectural Heritage Week, see www.edht.org.uk Saturday 8th September: Blandford Rugby Club 1st XV first match of the season (Sherborne at home) followed
by 70s theme night in the Entries in this diary are Continuing Care of clubhouse the elderly by free of charge. If you Elizabeth Webb, 4 to Saturday 8th have an event you 6pm, The Grange, September: Charlton would like included, Milldown Road, Marshall Annual Fun Day please send details to Blandford, places and Dog Show on the Nicci Brown, 01258 must be reserved by playing field 459346 or email calling 01258 Saturday and Sunday s.n.b@btinternet.com 458214 8th and 9th September: Saturday 15th Sturminster Cheese Festival, 10am to September: Clean Up Blandford, 5pm. See. www.cheesefestival.co.uk 10am Parish Church. Join members for all the latest news to help keep the streets clear of Sunday 9th September: Blandford paper, bottles and general rubbish St Mary Jubilee Fun Day Fete, Saturday 15th September: Free Bryanston Court, Chettell Way, 2over-50s drop-in with Blandford 5pm. Free entry for bouncy castle, Area Fiftyplus, 9.30 to noon, and cake competition, refreshments, Credit Union advice session 'Beat tombola, face painting, hat competithe Loan Sharks' 1.30 to 4pm, Corn tion, children's activities, raffle Exchange, Blandford Sunday 9th September: Iwerne Saturday 15th September: Party Minster car boot sale on the Parish Fun Night at Colin's Community Field Club Tuesday 11th September: Blandford Sunday 16th September: 2.30Museum Community Forces Project 4.30pm Traditional English tea party information afternoon, 3-6pm at the also vintage and embroidered linen for museum, for all interested in intersale. In the Anne Biddlecombe Hall, viewing or being interviewed Tarrant Keynston, for All Saints Wednesday 12th September: Church Tarrant Keynston Flower Fund Guided tours of the Bastard Study Wednesday 19th September: above Age UK, East Street, Blandford Blandford Townswomen's Guild coffor Dorset Architectural Heritage fee morning, Methodist Church Hall, Week. See www.edht.org.uk The Close, 10am to noon Friday 14th September: Film Night, Thursday 20th September: Open Durweston village hall, Best Exotic Evening, Blandford School, 6.30 to Marigold Hotel, 7.30pm 8.30pm Friday 14th September: Saturday 22nd September: Fabric Presentation and seminar on
Sale in support of Naomi House and Jack's Place children's hospices, Tarrant Keyneston village hall, 10am to 4pm. Light refreshments. To donate or rent stall space call 01258 830377 Saturday 22nd September: Book launch and signing with Marian Matthews, local author of 'Aspects of Reality', Blandford Library 2-4pm Sunday 23rd September: Wedding Fair, Crown Hotel, Blandford, 10am to 5pm Monday 24th September: Community Open Morning, Blandford School, 9am to 1pm Friday September 28: Blandford and District U3A celebrates its tenth anniversary in 2012 with an open meeting, 2pm at Durweston Village Hall. Talk on 17th century Dorchester and information on U3A activities. Free entry, tea and cakes 50p. For details see www.blandfordu3a.co.uk Saturday 29th September: A Dorset Rural Music School cabaret concert and party in celebration of DRMS' 65th anniversary, Corn Exchange, Blandford, 7.30pm. Live music, food, bar. Tickets include buffet supper from DRMS, The Close, Blandford, 01258 455032 Sunday 30th September: unveiling of Blandford Museum Victorian Garden Club's Jubilee Mosaic, time tbc Sunday 30th September: Three Okefords Preservation Society annual ploughing match