FORUM FOCUS For Blandford and surrounding villages Issue No. 8
End of the beat for Simon: P.19
November 2012
Triumph for pavement campaigner
The great debaters A TEAM of students from the Blandford School won an interschool debating contest. School prime minister James WillisFisher, Micah Mackay and Beni Hofmann, of Year 11, defeated Sherborne School and Bryanston School. Full story - Page 19.
Fight against homes scheme gains pace PEOPLE are being urged to again give their views on the proposal to build homes on the Bryanston Deer Park and Crown Meadows after its continued inclusion in North Dorset District Council's second consultation into its draft local strategy for the district. Surrounding parishes have joined forces with Blandford Town Council in strongly objecting to the proposal in a blueprint for the district's future development. In the new consultation into issues raised during an initial consultation in 2010 into the New Plan for North Dorset, people are asked to say whether they would prefer 150 rather than 200 houses on the site west of Blandford. But town councillors were told last month that all the parish councils working with them to produce their own neighbourhood plan had agreed there should be none at all. And the Mayor, Sara Loch, urged people who have signed a 6,000-
by Nicci Brown strong petition against the development to write individually in response to the latest consultation. A series of presentations started in Blandford on 1st November, continuing at venues across the district, to consult on possible revisions to the plan. The public have until 21st December to respond to the consultation, which is also available in council offices and at the local library, either at the consultation events, by writing to the council, or online at www.dorsetforyou. com/planningpolicy/north When the revisions were considered by North Dorset District Council's cabinet prior to being made available to the public, there were a number of challenges to the wording of the document and the questions posed. Cllr John Stayt urged that instead
of asking people if they wanted 150 instead of 200 homes on the Crown Meadows, they should be asked whether a reduced number would be acceptable. A member of the public, Michael Le Bas, called for the same criteria to be used for all sites being considered. He highlighted a reference to landscape value and wildlife of a site near Tesco but not at Bryanston Park and stressed that town centre traffic generation was a key issue. The consultation also seeks views on an offer from the Crown Estate to dedicate part of the site as public open space in response to environmental concerns. People will be able to comment on the overall development target for the Blandford area from 2006 to 2024, which could be reduced from 1,500 to 960, about development in the villages, and on the infrastructure needed to support growth. To Page 2
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DOGGED determination over a period of six months by a Blandford resident has helped achieve long-overdue repairs to pavements in the town. The resident, who wishes to remain anonymous, has kept Forum Focus informed of a correspondence which began in March between him and local county councillor Barrie Cooper, and has since involved a number of other councillors and officers at Dorset County Council. It was not until the September meeting of the town council's town and general purposes committee that the town clerk was able to report that 'it is considered that DCC, together with the Chamber of Trade, has dealt with this particular matter'. The resident concerned said he was satisfied that, apart from the odd one here and there, the majority of rocking stones in the main streets had been sorted. But concerns remain about the poor reinstatement of roads and pavements following works relating to essential services, particularly in Dorset Street and Orchard Street, and between Kohima Court and the parish church. The county council is unaware which operator dug the trench. It was agreed that the town council monitor the situation, and that committee chairman Rosemary Holmes should report any highway issues to the committee bimonthly. A county council officer has asked larger outlets in the town to advise suppliers about not parking and offloading on the footpaths, whose paving slabs break easily and are expensive to repair, and has given an assurance that monthly inspections are made to pick up any defects, and that some outstanding issues are programmed to be done this financial year.
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FORUM FOCUS CONTACTS Editorial: Nicci Brown T: 01258 459346 E: editor@forumfocus.co.uk Advertising: John Stayt T: 01258 456999 E: advertising@forumfocus.co.uk Distribution: Jackie Stayt T: 01258 456999 E: distribution@forumfocus.co.uk Design: David Eidlestein T: 01258 450989 E: de@deadlines.eclipse.co.uk
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Training centre comes of age A TRAINING centre offering vocational courses for people in North Dorset has come of age with a change of name to the North Dorset Technology College. The North Dorset Skills Centre was established in Shaftesbury in 2003 as an outreach of Yeovil College to provide training opportunities for local people, including those in Blandford. Two years ago the site was expanded and now provides a large range of full- and part-time courses for students from 14 years old to adults. It was relaunched last month under its new banner by Jacqueline Flexney-Briscoe,
Trustee needed AGE Concern Blandford is seeking a volunteer to join its board as trustee for fundraising. For further details contact Carol Bunnagar on 01258 458250 or at the Age Concern office at 4 Nightingale Court Blandford Forum DT117ED.
chairman of the Shaftesbury Chamber of Commerce and Shaftesbury Town Team. She said: "The centre has come of age and developed into a fullblown technical college. "Its continued investment in its students highlights its commitment to increasing opportunities for local people, contributing greatly to the future of businesses and the economy in the whole of the area." The new name puts the College on an equal footing with Yeovil's main campus and shows it can provide the local community with courses from Foundation to Level 3 and beyond. Neil Sambrook, head of North Dorset Technical College and the Matrix Training Centre in Bridport, said: "In very real terms, the North Dorset Technical College had outgrown its original name, so this new title represents a significant turning point in the site's evolution." For information call 01935 423921 or visit www.yeovil.ac.uk
FORUM FOCUS FORUM Focus deadlines for December will be Friday 16th November (advertisement bookings) and Tuesday 20th November (copy and editorial) for distribution Monday 3rd December. Deadlines for the January issue will be Tuesday 11th December (advertisement bookings) and Friday 14th December (copy and editorial) for distribution Friday 4th January.
The DT11 Broadband team (left to right) Steve Adamson, Scott Norman, Clive Struver and Nic Nicol post their application to DEFRA for a share of the Rural Community Broadband Fund.
Broadband cash bid is launched A BID for a share of ÂŁ20m that DEFRA has available in its Rural Community Broadband Fund, to bring superfast broadband to the district, was submitted by the DT11 'Trailway Broadband' team at the beginning of October. The plan to install fibre optic cable along the North Dorset Trailway and into the five villages along the route has now been extended to include married quarters at Blandford Camp and the North Dorset Business Park at Sturminster Newton. When completed it will give topquality broadband access to more than 2,700 homes and 180 businesses, which could otherwise remain with an almost nonexistent service. DT11 community partnership chairman Scott Norman said:
"The team has worked extremely hard to get to this point and has provided a mass of supporting evidence for our bid." He said they had been helped by a well-attended public meeting, more than 400 responses to their online survey, and in developing a full business and technical plan. "We are very grateful to all those who have supported us in the bid. "We understand from DEFRA that they expect to let us know by December whether we have been successful. Our plans are then to move as quickly as we can to transform the broadband landscape within the area, making it extremely attractive to existing and new businesses as well as providing residents with the best broadband service in the UK."
Homes opposition grows From Page 1 Cllr David Walsh, portfolio holder for development at North Dorset District Council, said: "There aren't many things that affect people more than the development of the area in which they live. "I would encourage everyone to take part in this second round of consultations. As with the first, we are listening and we need to hear from them." He said without the plan to establish policy, the council would have difficulty resisting applications from developers and seeking infrastructure contributions from them. Following the consultation, the
plan will then be revised to form part of the 'new-style' Local Plan for the district for submission to the Government by spring 2013, a public examination, and adoption by the end of next year.
Tree order for Larksmead rec A PROVISIONAL Tree Preservation Order has been made by North Dorset District council on land at Larksmead Recreation Ground to cover 15 trees around the boundary. Subject to any objections being received, it will be confirmed within the next six months.
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November 2012
Food throwers mar charity fundraiser AN OKTOBERFEST organised by the Blandford Stour Valley Rotary Club succeeded in raising more than £2,000 for charity, despite an unfortunate incident which saw around a dozen of the 165 guests walk out in disgust. All was going well in the Corn Exchange, where the tables were laid out in rows and the Stour Valley Oompah Band led the choruses of beer-drinking songs as ticket holders tucked into cold meats, bread, pickled cabbage and glasses of lager and wine. But the arrival of the sweet course of apfelstrudel and cream coincided with a number of overexuberant fest-goers lobbing food
at each other across the tables. One unlucky recipient was covered in cream, whereupon her angry partner upturned the table and walked out, followed by a number of other guests who had been on the receiving end. Rotarian Sharon John of All Insure said: "The proceedings were halted for a few minutes while the mess was cleared, but then the party was able to continue, and we were able to raise £2,105 for Rotary charities. "My phone at work was jammed on Monday morning with people apologising profusely for their behaviour, and we would like to apologise to anyone who was inconvenienced."
Car park charges net a not-so-grand £45 a week THE introduction of pay-and-display parking charges in Station Court, Blandford, has earned North Dorset District Council a princely £45 a week, town councillors were told last month. District councillor John Tanner reported he had asked for a financial breakdown since the meters went in, resulting in motorists resorting to on-street parking and the car park standing empty for the majority of the time. He said he had also queried the cost of the meters, which was £3,000. "At that rate it is going to take several years to break even," he said. He told the council that he had also asked for the car park to be tidied up, complaining that although white lines had been painted, they had been painted up to the mud and no further. He has also asked for the disabled bays by the entrance to be moved, since they have been provided in a location where it is difficult for disabled people living in both Station Court and Alexandra Court to get in and out of their vehicles.
Street lights switch-off reveals its dark side THE switching-off of street lights in the early hours of the morning has reportedly led to milk being stolen from doorsteps as well as
Black marks DORSET County Council has agreed to works in Black Lane designed to make it safer for children attending Archbishop Wake Primary School. In the short term there will be extra school warning signs, road markings and flashing lights, and traffic counts, but the town council's wish for a 20mph speed limit will remain on the request list, but will be dependent on budgets.
other more serious issues. Town councillors were told that anyone who was the victim of theft should report it to the police, but Cllr Andrew Pemberton said: "It is causing a considerable amount of concern and should be reviewed." Cllr Roger Carter said people needing to go to work at 5am, such as cleaners, were unable to see their way, and Cllr Sylvia Hixson Andrews said it was particularly dangerous for the disabled and visually impaired. They were advised the issue would be discussed more fully at the next meeting of the town and general purposes committee on 26th November.
Orderly fashion: The scene in the Corn Exchange before the Blandford Stour Valley Rotary Oktoberfest was disrupted by rowdy behaviour.
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Homes named to honour a ‘true Gunville man’ A TARRANT Gunville villager who died in 2009 at the age of 86 has been commemorated in the naming of a new affordable rent scheme being developed by Spectrum Housing. Bailey Cottages take the name of Elliott Bailey, described by parish council chairman Jim Farquharson as "a true Gunville person in every sense, born in the village he so loved in 1923 to a very different village life to the one today". Mr Farquharson, who sold some of his land as a greenfield 'exception' site for the development and who at one time employed Mr Bailey, said that life then included drawing water from the well, filling and fuelling the copper for the Monday wash and the outdoor privy. "His first job when 14 was at Eastbury Park for my grandfather, the 'Squire', helping in the grounds and showing an early mechanical interest with the generators used to power the house electric," he said.
Valerie Miller (centre) reveals the new road sign for Bailey Cottages, named after her father Elliott Bailey. She is pictured with estate owner Jim Farquharson (right) and Spectrum Housing Group board member Ian Keys. "Elliott was a great villager; an enduring character and a true countryman who would have been pleased to see these homes built on estate land for the benefit of local people." Elliott's daughter Valerie Miller, who still lives in the village and is
looking forward to the first families moving in, officially unveiled the name of the development. The ceremony coincided with the start of Rural Housing Week - an awareness campaign by the National Housing Federation to highlight rural housing issues. Ian Keys, board member for Spectrum Housing Group, said: "Affordable rural housing enables families to live near each other, providing an important social support system. Without it people would have to move away and lose the chance to have their own home in their own community." North Dorset District Council has made affordable rural housing a key priority in an area where average house prices are high but earnings low. The four semi-detached timberframed homes, designed by Howard, Shreeve & Turnbull of Blandford and constructed by Dorset builders C.G. Fry, are due for completion in December 2012 and will be let to people with a strong local connection. People should register their interest at www.dorsethomechoice.org, call 01258 454111 or visit the North Dorset District Council office in Salisbury Road, Blandford.
Bazaar plea BRYANSTON village needs stall holders for its first ever Christmas bazaar which is being held on Saturday 1st December between 10am and 1pm to raise funds for the Residents’ Association village newsletter. The deadline for table applications is 15th November and the contact is Lucy on 01258 450705.
Georgian Fayre in danger of folding AN emergency open meeting of the Georgian Fayre committee will be held in the Sealy Suite of the Crown Hotel on 23rd November following the decision of its founder chairman Janice Driscoll to stand down after 20 years organising the premier Blandford event. Her decision coincides with the desire of secretary Rachael Piper-Harding to also stand down, leaving only half-a-dozen remaining on the committee. Mrs Driscoll said: "If more people do not come forward to get involved, the Georgian Fayre will fold. "It needs new people to take on responsibility for running a unique event which puts Blandford on the map and brings thousands of pounds a year into the town. I urge people to come along to the meeting. It starts at 7.30pm."
Hoedown A FAMILY hoedown will be taking place in the Hambro Hall, Winterborne Stickland, on Saturday 10th November to raise funds for the Dunbury School. Tickets are available from the school office or by calling 01258 881129 and cost £6 for adults and £3 for children, to include supper, dancing, and the chance to learn some new dance moves. Guests are invited to bring their own dessert and drinks.
Care cash A CARERS group meeting monthly at PLUSS Mobility in Holland Way Business Park has been awarded a £200 grant by Blandford Town Council. The council's finance committee had originally recommended no support to the fledgling group, but the full council agreed to support it after meeting with the organiser and being given more information.
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Villages take pride of place
Debby Mackenzie receives the Previous Winners’ Large Village award for her village, Pimperne, presented by Donald Rushton, chairman of Magna Housing, and Dorset Echo Award presented by Martin Lea, watched by Lucy Clark, chairman of East Dorset District Council. FOUR Blandford area villages were recognised when the winners of the 2012 Dorset Best Village competition were announced at a presentation event at Corfe Mullen village hall, near Wimborne. Milton Abbas were runners-up for the Environmental Award, Child Okeford were third in the Large Village category, and Pimperne were the winners of the Previous Winners' Large Village category. Tarrant Monkton received a special award from North Dorset District Council, presented by chairman Mike Oliver.
Winfrith Newburgh picked up the first prize for the Best Large Village and Church Knowle scooped the first prize for Best Small Village. The awards included the Best Kept Village, which has been organised by Dorset Community Action since 1987, and which had a record number of 55 entries. Volunteer organiser Rita Burden said: "Ongoing maintenance of the village hall, play area, churchyard and regular litter picks are very important, but it is not just about how the village looks. It is also about how active the
Appeal stirs special wartime memories AN APPEAL in the August edition of Forum Focus for information on members of the Blandford Royal Observer Corps in World War Two resulted in researcher Tony Harrocks being contacted by Phillip Warren, creator of the Matchstick Fleet, who was 10 years old in 1940 at the height of the Battle of Britain. He remembers being taken to the ROC post on Blandford recreation ground and, as a special treat, being allowed to look through one of the observers' pairs of binoculars.
Wider path THE footpath outside the Kings Arms in Whitecliff Mill Street is being widened to make it easier for pedestrians with buggies and mobility scooter users who are unable to get through without going onto the road. Town councillors have supported Dorset County Council's proposal provided consideration has been given to the junction with Bryanston Street and to large vehicles being able to still use the road.
Donald Rushton, chairman of Magna Housing, presents the Large Village third place award to Wendy Addley and Sylvia Holdeman of Child Okeford, watched by Lucy Clark, chairman of the hosting East Dorset District Council.
He has given pen sketches of a number of wartime Blandford ROC members that he remembers, nearly all of whom were then middle-aged or older and ran or were employed in shops and businesses in the town. Mr Harrocks said: "I would very much like to talk to any descendants of these very dedicated and patriotic men who all managed to hold down two jobs each and who contributed greatly to the defence of their country." He would like to hear about Thomas Joiner, the Head Observer and 76 years old in 1942, Bertie and Chas Pike (brothers?) and members of a large local family, and Leonard Westcott, who owned a jewellery shop in Salisbury Street (or road), as well as a Mr Winsor, who owned a sweet shop in the town, Mr A. Riggs, who may have a grandson living in Charlton Marshall, Mr R. Legg, who became a councillor in Blandford, and local shop owner Mr E.C. Hobbs. Contact Mr Harrocks on 01258 480062 or by email to tonyharrocks@gmail.com
village is - how it builds up a sense of community spirit and addresses the needs of its residents, especially the more vulnerable ones." Magna Housing Association became the major sponsor for the competition three years ago and has renewed its support for the next three years. Additional sponsorship in 2012 came from Dorset County Council, the four district councils, the Dorset Echo, Dorset Magazine and the Blackmore Vale Magazine, with support from a number of local food producers.
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Music, dance and ceremony among the month’s Poppy Appeal events LOCAL folk band Poacher's Moon plan to launch their new single 'The Fallen' at a special performance in support of the Poppy Appeal at Blandford Royal British Legion on Friday 2nd November. On Sunday 4th November, representatives of the RBL and Blandford Camp will gather at the war memorial in Blandford Cemetery to lay wreaths both on the memorial and on the war graves, which are being refurbished by the War Graves Commission. On Saturday 10th November a Poppy Dance at the Royal British Legion features Debi 'English Rose' Gregory, who sings 1940s songs in period costume. On Sunday 11th November, Remembrance Day and Armistice Day will be marked across the district and in Blandford by the Royal British Legion Blandford branch parade starting at 2.45pm to the Corn Exchange war memorial, where the laying of wreaths will be followed by a parade round the town and into the parish church for the Remembrance Day service. To bring the Poppy Appeal events to a resounding finale on Saturday 17th November, the Coots Band, consisting of serving soldiers from Blandford Camp, will play at an open night in support of the charity at the Royal British Legion. The RBL's branch AGM will be held at the club on Monday 26th November.
Gallery offers showcase for Bryanston art department
North Dorset District Council chairman Mike Oliver, right, receives the Federation of Small Businesses award from Wessex chairman Ken Moon.
Council rewarded for its efforts to help young people into employment NORTH Dorset District Council's efforts to get young people in the area into employment have been recognised by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB). The council was presented with the Best Business Friendly Award from the FSB Wessex branch for its innovative WAVE project (Work experience, Apprenticeships, Volunteering, Employment). FSB Wessex regional chairman Ken Moon praised the council for its commitment to small businesses in North Dorset, saying: "This award says 'thank you' to all the councillors and officers who rarely get recognised for the work they do. The FSB looks to the region's local authorities to help create the environment for small businesses to survive and thrive." In answer to concerns about employability skills, work readiness and transition from training and education into employment, the council set up a meeting with schools, trainers and business representatives, and co-ordinated events which included a training and business event in March, a young entrepreneur event in June, and a two-day Careers College event in July. A further event, called a Business and Skills Market Place, is planned for March next year. Students from five North Dorset schools chose from 60 occupational areas, attended vocational workshops to get hands-on experience and learnt about training and education opportunities at a careers fair. More than 90 per cent of them said it helped them make decisions about the future and better understand the skills needed to get work, and 72 per cent felt more confident about the future.
ARTIST Annabelle Valentine is hosting an exhibition in her Salisbury Street gallery of work by staff from Bryanston School art department. It ends on 4th November - so hurry! Artists showing are Jack Dickson, Anthony Connelly, Caroline Chourou, Helen Dean, Jindra Jehu, Mike Owens, Mark Hilde, Sue Macpherson and Monica Sinclair-Smith. Annabelle says she has received an astonishing number of new orders since opening her Valentine Gallery in May this year. Her works in progress include a 12-ft long painting depicting the Prologue to the Canterbury Tales, and a large painting of the racehorse Canford Cliffs, ridden by Richard Hughes. The jockey rode into the history books when he won seven races in a day at Windsor on 15th October, equalling Frankie Dettori’s record.
Bigger bungalow PLANS to more than double the size of a bungalow in Salisbury Road by turning it into a twostorey house have encountered objections from neighbours and Blandford Town Council. Two residents attended the town council's October planning meeting to complain that it would rob them of light and privacy by overlooking their properties in Dairy Field. The planning application by Mr Hardiman is being considered by North Dorset District Council.
Ian Taylor, a true man of Blandford, dies at 87 FRIENDS, colleagues and family members from across the country gathered in Blandford Parish Centre to remember Ian Taylor, a Blandford man who died while visiting family in the United States. He was 87. Mr Taylor was a founder member and subsequently vice-chairman of the Blandford branch of the University of the Third Age, a town guide and minutes secretary for Blandford and District Civic Society, a member of the Dorset group of the Institute of Advanced Motorists, a committee member of the Old Blandfordians Association, a founder member of the Blandford Railway Arches Trust and a volunteer with Blandford Museum. He was the son of Robert Taylor and Lois Strachan, and educated at Blandford Grammar School, where he was head boy in
1941-2, and St Peter's Hall, Oxford University, where his studies in French and German from 1942 to 1950 were broken by service with the RAF from 1943-47. He rowed in the college 1st VIII in 1948-9, and went on to earn an MA and Dip. Ed to become a teacher in secondary schools and then a lecturer in modern languages at Leicester College of Education until, following early retirement, he became a supply teacher. A leading light in the British Association for Language Teaching, and treasurer of the Modern Language Association, he was external examiner and vice-president of the Leicester French Circle, and an officer with the Audio-Visual Language Association. He had married his wife Elly, from Alsace, in 1949, and they had five sons and a daughter.
They always planned when they retired to replace the house in Blandford, built by Mr Taylor's father, in which he and his sister Anthea grew up. When Elly died in 1987, Mr Taylor started building the four-bedroom timber house in Kings Road with the help of his son-in-law, children, nephews and friends. In 1999 he married Norma Jean Eiben Walters, a retired psychology lecturer from the USA, whom he and his late wife had known in Oxford in the 1950s, and she joined him in Blandford. He is survived by her and by his six children, nine grandchildren and a greatgranddaughter from his first marriage. Donations are being made in his memory to Water Aid or to a language prize at The Blandford School.
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Engineer Gavin proves he is a man of Vision by taking top award A FORMER pupil of the Blandford School has received a Vision Award from the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. Gavin Kerby, 24, was presented with his EngTech Visionary award at a ceremony in London. The third generation of his family to work in engineering, Gavin was motivated by his father and grandfather, who each worked for Cobham for 35 years. At the age of 13 he joined the Air Cadets which enthused him and led him to gain his private pilot's licence and train as a gliding instructor. He completed a BTEC in engineering, gained his HNC in engi-
neering manufacturing, with a distinction and a college award for his exceptional company project, and then a foundation degree. Gavin is now being supported by his company, Superior, to study for a BEng and MEng in engineering with the aim of becoming a Chartered Engineer with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. In his role as a quality engineer with Superior, Gavin was involved in interviewing and training the 12 apprentices taken on in two years with the company's training academy. He said: "I started working
In the running for county title BLANDFORD company J&G Environmental, based in Holland Way, has been nominated for the title of Company of the Year in the Dorset Business Awards. Winners will be announced at an Oscars-style awards gala dinner at the Lighthouse in Poole on Thursday 29th November. Comedian and actress Debra Stephenson will be hosting the ceremony. Tickets costing ÂŁ85 for members of the organising Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry, or ÂŁ95 for non-members, are available by calling 01202 714812.
Craftsman shows off his skills THE Matchstick Fleet created by Blandford craftsman Philip Warren formed the centrepiece of a Discovering Dorset exhibition held at the Allendale Centre, Wimborne. Model warships made from matches and matchboxes is the life's work of Mr Warren, who displayed half his collection of 432 naval vessels when he took them to a similar exhibition the previous year. The event raised funds for Caring Canines, a voluntary group promoting dog awareness and offering a free dog-assisted therapy service.
Primary school open morning PIMPERNE Primary School is holding an open morning for its new Reception Class at the school on Thursday 15th November between 9am and noon. For details call 01258 452025.
Institution of Mechanical Engineers Visionary Gavin Kerby receives his award from Isobel Pollock, president of the IMechE. straight from school, so I like to show apprentices that you can come into engineering, earn a good salary and get qualifications without having to go to university. "We mentor, train and support them, explaining the importance of professional development and the excitement of engineering as a career, and inspiring them to achieve their goals, giving them a sense of achievement by showing that their work is of value to others."
Professor Isobel Pollock, president of the IMechE, said: "The Vision Awards exist to showcase talented people who are inspiring change and driving innovation forward." A spokesman for IMechE described Gavin as "a true visionary in that he is already someone whom young engineers look up to as a role model, and is a passionate advocate for the benefits of entering the profession as an apprentice."
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Four candidates in poll to lead Dorset police Left to right: Lyle Adlem, Steve Poulton, chairman Derek Gardiner, Wendy Gredley, Peter Partridge and Margo Ashurst of the Stourpaine Parish Plan committee at their consultation day, with plans for their new village hall.
Stourpaine takes a look into the future VILLAGERS in Stourpaine attended a consultation day in their village hall to launch a consultation on the review of their Parish Plan. Chairman of the parish plan committee Derek Gardner said: "In the past five years the village of Stourpaine has changed for the better and plans are underway to ensure it continues to improve. "It seems to be an ideal time to stop and reflect on what projects and improvements have been accomplished and what work needs to be progressed since the village adopted its first Parish Plan." Visitors were able to see work in progress on the village's new website at www.stourpaine.info and comment on recent developments, as well as what might be achieved in the future. The village has successfully
maintained its shop and post office thanks to the enterprise of local landlord Chris Sargent at the White Horse pub. It has drawn up plans for a replacement village hall, as well as opening a new children's playground and welcoming the North Dorset Trailway which is now fully accessible from Sturminster Newton. But it faces a number of issues, including demands on its environment as well as of its residents in combating climate change and escalating energy costs, and the flooding experienced in July. One property was badly affected and others in Havelins had a narrow escape, resulting in a representative of the Environment Agency being invited to a parish council meeting in September to suggest what might be done to prevent future occurrences.
PEOPLE across Dorset will be going to the polls on Thursday 15th November to elect their new Police and Crime Commissioner. But the question is not so much who will be chosen, but how many people will vote, or even know about the election taking place and what it is about. PCCs will replace the police authorities currently in charge of 41 forces in England and Wales, and will be responsible for setting priorities for their police force, overseeing its budget and hiring the chief constable. Four candidates are seeking election in Dorset, where the contest follows closely on the retirement of Chief Constable Martin Baker, who had been in post since 2005. He was replaced on 1st October by Acting Chief Constable Debbie Simpson, who joined the Force from Devon & Cornwall in 2011 and has jointly chaired the board overseeing preparations for the transition. The four candidates are Andy Canning, Nick King, Rachel Rogers and Martyn Underhill. Andy Canning (Liberal Democrat) is a West Dorset town and district councillor and Mayor of Dorchester who believes his experience as a trained economist working at a senior level in banking could help Dorset Police manage cutbacks. He wants to be a "strong voice" for residents, ensure the police achieve value for money and
Trail blazers FIVE women from Tarrant Monkton were among those who braved a fire walk at the Dorset Health & Racquets Club in Poole in support of two charities, About Face and the Poole Radiotherapy Department, to raise an estimated ÂŁ10,000. The sponsored fundraising event was organised by villager Fiona MacEwen to say thank you for both the excellent treatment she received at Poole Hospital's Radiotherapy Department, and the support offered by About Face, the head and neck cancer support charity. She was joined by Sue Brown, Sue Wizards, Geraldine Stone and Vicky Gumm, and has thanked all those who supported them in the venture.
stop young people from getting into crime. Nick King (Conservative) is a serving councillor on Bournemouth Borough Council and a member of the Dorset Police Authority for five years, who, like generations of his family before him, ran his own business. He is campaigning for police visibility on the streets, links between the force and Neighbourhood Watch schemes and focusing on restorative justice. Rachel Rogers (Labour) is a member of Weymouth and Portland Borough Council, and a teacher with a background in the public service and prison services, currently working in the field of children's rights. She believes in crime prevention and is committed to criminal justice and community safety services reflecting local needs and remaining a public service. Martyn Underhill (Independent) is a former police chief who was second in charge of the Sarah Payne murder investigation during his time with Sussex Police. He retired to Dorset in 2009 and rejects party politics. He believes in Dorset solutions for Dorset people and his priorities are to tackle antisocial behaviour, reduce marine and rural crime and put the victim first. Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm on Thursday 15th November, and the election will use the supplementary vote system, with voters marking the ballot paper with their first and second choice of candidate. If no candidate gets an initial majority, second preference votes are taken into account. The deadline for applying for registration to vote and for a postal vote was 31st October.
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November 2012
Safety measures mean sparks won’t fly at this year’s Yuletide Festival THE Civic Tree Lighting ceremony in the Market Place, with Father Christmas in the Corn Exchange, will be taking place on Friday 7th December from 6pm onwards. It will be followed by the Civic Carol Service in Blandford Parish Church. The following day the Blandford Lions stage their annual Christmas Fair in the Corn Exchange from 9am. Shopkeepers are reminded to get their thinking caps on in readiness to decorate their shop windows for the Town Council-run competition, which will be judged in the week beginning December 3rd. The competition offers a first prize of £150, second of £100 and third of £50, with a special prize for charity/not-for-profit organisations of £50. Shoppers are reminded that there will be free parking in the town, paid for by the town council, on Saturday 15th December.
The lantern procession at last year’s Yuletide Festival.
ORGANISERS of the Blandford Yuletide Festival have confirmed that this year's event on Wednesday 12th December will again feature a firework finale. It will be run this year by Firework Solutions of Wimborne and will be closely monitored by North Dorset District Council staff to ensure the highest level of safety. Last year there was consternation when some of the fireworks flew into the crowds in the Market Place and the display was temporarily halted. There will be another lantern procession by the primary schools of
Be in the news this Christmas SEE next month's Forum Focus for a full breakdown of all the Christmas activities and events and some ideas on what you can do to brighten up the festive season. To advertise, call John Stayt on 01258 456999 or email advertising@forumfocus.co.uk, and to let us know of your organisation’s Christmas festivities contact Nicci Brown on 01258 459346 or email editor@forumfocus.co.uk.
the Blandford network, as well as silver and brass bands, community carol singing, late-night shopping, markets, including Italian and local stall-holders, fairground rides and street displays. Roads in the town centre will be closed between 4pm and 10pm on the day of the festival. The main sponsors are local brewers Hall & Woodhouse. Chair of the BYF Group, Tim Storey said "The last two Festivals have been simply amazing with a fantastic response from the community and we are working hard to make the 2012 event bigger and better." Mark Woodhouse, chairman of Hall & Woodhouse, said: "We are pleased to be able to support the Yuletide Festival again in 2012 and are looking forward to being a part of another enjoyable and exciting evening." For more information, call Steve Hitchings on 01258 455840 or email byf@bfpc.org.uk.
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November 2012
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November 2012
Knighton House School Choristers on the lawn at the school.
School chapel choir is in great demand 'CLASSICS at the Exchange', hosted by Valerie Singleton in Sturminster Newton at 7.30pm on 10th November, will feature a guest appearance by the Knighton House School Chapel choir and the voices of Robert Carpenter-Turner (baritone), Alison Charlton-West (soprano), with Peter Bailey (piano) and Damaris Lockwood (readings). The programme will include some of the greatest works of Puccini, Mozart, Shakespeare, Lehar and Sullivan, and is in support of children's hospice Julia's House and All Saints Church. The popular school choir comprises 28 girls aged 10 to 13, selected by audition from the top three years of the school, including four senior choristers who sing the solos, lead their sections and perform as a vocal quartet. Regular rehearsals take place
during the week culminating in the Saturday morning Knighton House School service in Durweston parish church, during which the choir sings a two-part anthem from memory. The Knighton House School Chapel Choir is in high demand, regularly singing for weddings and services at local Dorset churches, as well as for charity gala concerts. For the last two years, members of the choir have sung in the chorus for the Dorset Opera performances at the Coade Hall, and at the end of last year the choir were chosen to sing at a charity evening of Christmas carols and readings in St Peter and St Paul Church in Blandford in aid of Elizabeth Finn Care. To find out more, click on www.knightonhouse.dorset.sch.uk
Awards for design EXCITING new buildings in North Dorset are in with the chance of an award from the District Council, which has announced awards to recognise excellence in design and construction of buildings and environmental projects. The closing date is 7th December for nominations in seven categories: sensitively designed renewable energy installation; new dwelling house; housing group; non-domestic category for good design - eg commercial/ education; conservation - eg restoration project or new intervention in a historic setting; landscaping; community project. Residents, architects, planners, surveyors and designers are asked to nominate schemes that they think contribute towards raising awareness and improving the
quality of the environment in North Dorset. Nominations should include a statement about why a building or project is deserving of an award, the contribution it makes, and plans or photographs. The construction nominated should be complete and no more than five years old. A panel of judges from the council's elected environment group will, before Christmas, announce a shortlist of potential winners who will be invited to a gala awards ceremony early next year. For information and to make a nomination write to Luke Turk, North Dorset District Council, Salisbury Road, Blandford Forum, DT11 7LL, email lturk@north-dorset.gov.uk or phone 01258 484342.
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November 2012
Off-roaders banned after map blunder
New leader for district council THE new leader of North Dorset District Council is Cllr Deborah Croney, who was elected following the decision by former leader, Cllr Peter Webb, to step down at the council meeting of 28th September. Cllr Croney, a Conservative, has represented the Hill Forts ward since 2007 and is also a parish councillor in Iwerne Minster, where she lives with her husband and two teenage children. She has formerly worked in retail management and IT sales and support. Previously at the district council she had responsibility for the economy portfolio, including planning, conservation, rural regeneration and heritage. She has also served as deputy leader for the past two years. She said: "Becoming leader of North Dorset District Council is a huge honour. As an experienced but relatively youthful leader, you can be certain that my very best days are still ahead of me.
Cllr Deborah Croney, new leader of North Dorset District Council. "The Government has a programme of reforms that cover localism, welfare and health which will soon begin to have an impact on our local communities. My priority will be to embrace these reforms and provide the political will to be certain that North Dorset residents are among the very first to benefit from them." The new deputy leader is Cllr Graham Carr-Jones of Stalbridge, a businessman who was first elected to North Dorset District Council in 2003 and has served in the Cabinet for eight years.
OFF-ROAD vehicles will remain banned from a track between Tarrant Gunville and Chettle following a decision by a High Court judge who ruled an application to open it to all traffic was accompanied by maps to the wrong scale. It was one of five Dorset 'green lanes' which will remain classified as public paths closed to motorised vehicles after the failure of the bid by the countryside access group, the Trail Riders Fellowship (TRF), to make them available for scrambler and quads bikes. Dorset County Council refused to allow changes to be made to the county's definitive map on the unusual grounds that the maps attached to the applications were not to the required 1:25,000 scale. TRF took the dispute to the High Court in London, saying the council was nit-picking, and that the slight breach of the rules made no practical
difference. Mr Justice Supperstone dismissed TRF's judicial review challenge, saying the law was clear and the error could not be cured by blowing up maps originally published at a scale of 1:50,000 and was not trivial. The court heard that the council had taken more than five years to deal with the applications before refusing them at a meeting of the rights of way committee in October 2010. TRF and a Hampshire member of Friends of Dorset Rights of Way, who pursued the judicial challenge, were refused leave to appeal against an order to contribute ÂŁ5,000 towards the council's legal costs. Issues in the case were considered of such importance that the Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, was represented as an 'interested party' in court.
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November 2012
FOCUS on groups
Museum’s living history project seeks memories and help BLANDFORD Museum's Living History Group is inviting more people to become involved in its project linking the town and neighbouring Blandford Army Camp. The group records events, interviews and discussions for archive and exhibition purposes, and has been awarded a grant of nearly £6,000 from the MoD's Armed Forces Community Covenant Grant Scheme to aid the project. Community forces project co-ordinator Mike Lofthouse said: "The project aims to foster a better understanding within the local commu-
nity of the lives which military families lead, strengthening links between town and Camp, and establishing a permanent dialogue between the residents of the local civilian and service populations." Another outcome will be a DVD, which from next spring will form part of both a travelling exhibition and a permanent display at Blandford Museum of artefacts, letters, photos and documents which will remain in the museum collections. A wide-ranging series of interviews with Royal Signals personnel and their families is
planned, to include retired military personnel still living in the area, especially if they were stationed at the Camp. The group is keen to hear from anyone who would like to discuss and be interviewed about their experience of life in the military in Blandford, either as serving personnel or family members, and from anyone who would like to be part of the project team. For further information please contact the project co-ordinator Mike Lofthouse on 01258 451580 or Sylvia Hixson Andrews on 01258 458911.
New choir launches to mark 65 years of DRMS A DOUBLE celebration marked the 65th year of the Blandfordbased Dorset Rural Music School. An anniversary concert in the Corn Exchange was attended by more than 40 mayors and chairmen of authorities all over the county, and the following day a community choir was launched. The concert featured DRMS staff and the Briantspuddle Singers and was hosted by director Richard Hall. Guests included the Mayor of Blandford, Sara Loch, and in turn she invited the mayors and chairmen of Dorset authorities as part of her Civic Day. DRMS is one of Miss Loch's mayoral charities during her year in office.
The next day, Karen Wimhurst, who facilitated and created the music for the Common Ground River Stour Confluence Project 1999-2001, led a group of singers in Blandford Methodist Church in the first in a series of song-making sessions to launch the DRMS community choir. Dr Hall explained: "All are invited to come and sing for pleasure songs from around the world as well as jazz and pop classics but with no music. “You don't have to be able to sight read, and if you always meant to join a choir but never quite got round to it, now is the moment!" Find out more by calling in to DRMS in The Close, Blandford, or by telephoning 01258 452511.
Judges hand out points and prizes to camera club members BLANDFORD Forum Camera Club's first points cup competitions of the season were judged by Robin Dumbreck, who considered 76 photographs. These included 41 digital projected images of which two by Colin Cross and one by Kath Singleton earned maximum points. Three 10s were awarded to Paul Hunter and Graham Hutton for colour and to Malcolm Bowditch for monochrome in the print section. A fortnight earlier the annual President's Cup competitions for prints and projected images were judged by Reg Clark from Boscombe, who awarded top place and the trophy to Colin Cross for his 'Just caught supper'. Runner-up was John Burt with an image of a hurricane against a night sky with full moon, and third was a stylish 'Love in a mist' by Pat Catley. Of the print entries, Jon Ellis took first and second with 'Fair wind' and 'Block & tackle' respectively, 'Fish supper' by Jean Bartlett was third, and 'Torbay Express' by Graham Hutton was highly commended. At the most recent meeting, a digital version of the old light-hearted 'Match-a-slide' competition against Gillingham CC was judged by Leo Rich from Salisbury, famous locally for both his judging and comedic talent. The result was a draw. For more information on the club, contact Alf Tompkins on 01258 454450 or visit our website at www.bfcclub.co.uk.
The DRMS Community Choir is launched under musician Karen Wimhurst.
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FOCUS on groups
Civic Society chairman Peter Warrington and project manager Alan Dymond present the blue plaque recognising the former National School to Kim Rickford, head teacher of the Forum Centre.
November 2012
Plaque marks the spot for old school A PLAQUE marking the original home of the Archbishop Wake Primary School in the former National School in Park Road has been presented to its new occupiers by Blandford and District Civic Society. Chairman Peter Warrington said: "The Civic Society has for a number of years commissioned the blue plaques to mark buildings of historic interest in the town and we felt the old school, and its association with the local man who became Archbishop of Canterbury, was worthy of recognition." He added that a plaque was also to be attached to the former Blandford Infants School site in School Lane between Orchard Street and Damory Street. Archbishop Wake School relocated to new premises in Black Lane two years after the reorganisation of education in the area from three-tier to two-tier and its expansion from a first to primary school. The original boys school is now home to the Forum Centre, run by Dorset County Council as a com-
plex pupil referral unit for children who for whatever reason are unable to have a place in school. The plaque was received by head teacher Kim Rickford, who said she would be interested to receive details of the other plaques commissioned by the society for her students to study. THE first woman to command a Royal Naval ship was guest of honour at the annual Trafalgar dinner of the Blandford Royal Naval Association, held in the Masonic Hall on 19th October. Commander Sarah West RN is commanding officer of the frigate HMS Portland, which for the last 12 months has been undergoing a refit and will shortly be going to sea again with a new crew. She was welcomed by branch president Patricia Walker and secretary/vice-chairman Patrick Sullivan. Other guests included the Mayor of Blandford Sara Loch.
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November 2012
FOCUS on groups
Church echoes to the sounds of world music
Members of the Blandford Museum and Victorian Garden Club gather under the Jubilee Mosaic, which was unveiled by Mayor of Blandford and museum vice-president Sara Loch.
Mosaic memorial provides a splash of colour A LASTING memorial to the Queen's Diamond Jubilee has been created by members of the Blandford Museum Victorian Garden Club, who earlier this year planted an anniversary flower bed in the town's Woodhouse Gardens. A mosaic on the wall of the museum in Bere's Yard fills an otherwise unattractive blank wall at the end of the building, and features the crown in a bed of flowers, a dragonfly, ducks and of course, a Royal corgi. Garden Club member Judy Baker said: "I was forever looking at the wall and wondering what we could do until we came up with the idea of a mosaic. We had PIMPERNE Camera Club's AGM was held in the village hall in September and a number of prints were presented for selection for a competition with the Wareham Camera Club at the same venue on 17th October. A small club which has been running since 1989, it holds competitions for three cups each year and monthly competitions which members are encouraged to enter. They also enter print and DPI competitions with other camera clubs, and invite guest speakers and judges for some of their competitions. New members are always welcome, of whatever standard, and can call Jean on 480992 or John on 455356 for further information.
hoped to incorporate a sundial, but learned it was far too complicated, so settled for the mosaic which was created by a wonderful team of people who first did the blue background." Former headteacher Mrs Baker is no stranger to mosaic work, having 10 years ago led her pupils at Blandford St Mary Primary School to create a mosaic - marking the school's former site - in the wall of what is now Homebase. She now runs mosaic courses in the town. "We included some mirror pieces to catch the light and the ducks and dragonfly to add the Victorian flavour, as well as the corgi," she said. "A nice touch is that in the middle of the dragonfly are some pieces of pottery we found when we first dug the garden we now have behind the museum, but
the most important thing is that it has been great fun." The mosaic was officially unveiled by Mayor of Blandford Sara Loch when members of the museum, garden club and council gathered to celebrate its completion.
POPULAR Dorset song teachers, Sarah Pennington and Gilo, led a day of harmonies and rhythms from around the world in the Big Sing at the Blandford Evangelical Church on 20th October. The day was hosted and organised by Playsongs Plus, a vibrant community group which is keen to bring people together in song, working mainly with mothers and children. Some of the proceeds of the day will go towards buying new resources for their teaching. It was the first big event that Playsongs Plus had organised and they hoped to appeal to choir members and regular singers, but participants didn't need to read music to learn an evocative Maori chant, an exuberant African song, a haunting peace song, or a classic Gospel number.
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November 2012
FOCUS on service
Foodbank opens with mix of civic pride and sorrow Guests and volunteers at the launch of the Blandford Foodbank, opened by the Mayor of Blandford Sara Loch.
Befrienders required AN older people's charity offering advice, support and friendship is urgently looking for new volunteers in Blandford. Independent Age supports a number of older people living in the area who say they would like to receive visits from a home-visiting befriender, and they are appealing to local residents to get in touch to find out more if they want to help. Befriending allows older people who may be lonely or isolated to benefit from the visits of a familiar face on a regular basis. Good listeners who want to help should contact south-west area manager Karen Farnworth on 07703 695891 or Karen.farnworth@independentage.org.uk
Survey of venue needs THE DT11 community partnership is asking organisations to let them know if they are in need of venues to hire on an hourly or daily basis so that they can progress their bid to find alternative accommodation. It follows the failure of the plan to lease the former Three Choughs public house. Community partnership worker Sarah Wilkinson said: "We have found a smaller venue in which we hope to run a similar venture but on a smaller scale." To indicate interest, contact the DT11 office on 01258 489998 or email sarah@dt11forum.org.uk
Out and about in November MILBORNE Bus2Go community transport has organised four special trips during November, the first of which is on Saturday 10th November to West Quay. On Sunday 11th November there is a trip to Bovington Tank
Museum for their Remembrance Day activities, and on Saturday 17th November there is a visit to Glastonbury's illuminated carnival. All seats are now sold for a trip to the Sound of Music at the Christchurch Regent Theatre on Saturday 24th November. For more details call 01258 880559, 881719 or 837749.
A FOODBANK for Blandford and the DT11 area was officially launched by the Mayor of Blandford, Sara Loch, from its base on the Clump Farm Industrial Estate. And while she was delighted to be asked to open the service as a representative of the community, she said she was also sorry. "It is something dear to my heart, but it is really sad that it is needed in this day and age. It smacks of Victorian times." Welcoming the fact that the churches in the town have got together with the community under the guidance of Faithworks Wessex to provide the service, she said: "We know the response to the Gillingham Foodbank and it is brilliant to have one here." Alison Taylor, welfare benefits officer for Spectrum Signpost, said: "Many of our tenants have been the recipients of this sort of help in the past and are keen to give something back in return." Brook MacCallum, pastor of the Evangelical Church and co-ordinator of the Foodbank group, thanked all who had given food, time and money to get the service off the ground, saying: "It is a demonstration of compassion which started in the churches but has been shared with the community." He introduced Foodbank manager David Wild and the team of about a dozen volunteers signed up so far to help with the project. Donations can be made to collection points in the two Cooperative stores, the parish church and other churches, where lists of required foodstuffs are displayed.
Mayor of Blandford Sara Loch and Blandford Foodbank manager David Wild with some of the goods already donated to help people in crisis. Donors are asked to give dried and tinned food with a long shelflife, and particularly to help with a shortage of milk (UHT or powdered), breakfast cereal, fruit juice cartons, coffee, instant potato and sugar. Opening hours are every Tuesday and Thursday between 10am and 12pm, but food parcels will only be distributed to individuals and families in crisis in response to referrals from health and other agencies. The harvest offering from both Blandford and Langton Long churches has gone towards resourcing the Blandford Foodbank and the churches will actively support it with regular giving of food items in months to come. David Wild can be contacted for more information on 07531 629563 or by email to blandfordfoodbank@gmail.com
Computer issues? Drop in for help DROP-IN sessions offering advice and assistance in IT have been offered at Scruples Cafe in Barnack Walk, Blandford, for the last few weeks by David Urmston, a director of Oxford PC Solutions CIC. Another series of IT drop-in clinics is now taking place at Colin's Community Club, 49 Damory Street, Blandford, every Tuesday from 10am until 4pm. The not-for-profit Community Interest Company resolves day-to-day issues that arise with personal computers and specialises in providing access to IT services and facilities at discounted rates to
those who are disadvantaged through disability, age or finance. Mr Urmston, who has recently moved to Ibberton, is happy to be contacted by any community group which would like to host drop-in IT sessions for their members, including rural communities. He is also seeking a suitable low-rent location from which to engage with volunteers looking to gain IT knowledge and experience by working on real commercial projects. Find out more by calling 07833 144296, emailing david@oxfordpcsolutions.co.uk or visiting the website at www.oxfordpcsolutions.co.uk
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November 2012
FOCUS on service
No more alarms as firefighter’s long shift is over NEARLY three decades of fire-fighting for the Blandford community have come to an end for 56-year-old Trevor Haskell after handing in the pager which has governed his life since the 1980s. He joined the retained force at Blandford fire station in 1986 when he and his wife Vivienne came to live in the town. He was then a mechanic with James & Keats, one of the many companies in the town who allow employees time off to respond to emergency fire calls and other situations. His service has spanned his later employment with Dorset Commercials and their successor MC Truck and Bus, and most recently at Bryanston School, where he is site supervisor. "It's going to mean a real change of lifestyle," he said. "There has hardly been a year when I haven't been called out to something on Christmas Day." At his final Tuesday night training session at the station, Dorset's chief fire officer Darren Gunter presented him with his long-service plaque saying he and his wife could be rightly proud of the contribution and sacrifice they had made to the service of the community. He recalled Mr Haskell's key role as co-ordinator for one of the major recent fires in the area, the four-day incident at Symphony Candles on Blandford Heights Trading
Retiring retained fireman Trevor Haskell receives retirement gifts from station officer Steve Garbutt, left, and fireman Gary van den Dool, right, watched by members of the Blandford station crew. Estate in 2008. Mr Haskell himself recalled the day he was called to the blaze at his brother's business NSL on the Sunrise Business Park. But the biggest incident he remembered was the fire at British Drugs House in Poole in his third year of service when a warehouse of chemicals went up in flames next to the Queen Mary public house. "There were 45-gallon drums of chemicals
Brisk business as job club launches A BLANDFORD Job Club was opened by town mayor Sara Loch to help job-seekers find and apply for employment opportunities. And within minutes a couple of job-seekers were chatting to volunteers in the hope of benefiting from the service. The club has been developed by David Walsh, North Dorset District Council's portfolio holder for development, who previously helped set up and co-ordinate the Gillingham Job Club. He said: "The aim of the Job Club is to help local people find local work. Job seekers are offered encouragement, support and practical help and, importantly, it will be open to everyone regardless of age or work background." The club, run by volunteers with the necessary skills, will open every Friday between 10am and 1pm and can be found in the Treads building, through the archway in the Market Place to the Blandford Museum. It will follow the very successful model used in Gillingham which has created work placements for 68 people in just over 18 months,
even though the club is only open for three hours a week. Mr Walsh and his team have also been acting as consultants and advisors to councils in Wiltshire and Somerset and have helped them set up their own clubs and shared best practice with them. The Blandford Job Club, like the Gillingham one, is operated as an independent, non-profit, non-funded, non-political and non-religious organisation. Volunteer advisers help members assess their skills, and write or update CVs. They also provide interview training and work readiness advice, as well as guidance on how to use the internet, local press and other sources to find job openings, both paid and volunteer. Blandford Town Council has turned down a request from Youth Aid for funding to set up a job skills project, preferring to wait and see the outcome of the new service before committing any money. But it was agreed to loan the local youth charity a projector and screen so they could set up their project for young people.
flying hundreds of feet in the air and I finished up directing ambulances which had come from all over the region to Poole hospital," he said. Station officer Steve Garbutt said: "Service with the retained fire brigade takes up a huge part of the life of Trevor and his family, and on behalf of the station we thank him for his efforts, enthusiasm and support, particular for younger members of the crew. We are genuinely sad to see him go."
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November 2012
FOCUS on service
Simon goes off-duty after a 30-year beat
Above: Simon Evans, who is retiring, and, below: his successor PC Rob Hammond.
A 30-YEAR career with Dorset Police came to an end last month with the retirement of PC Simon Evans, community beat officer in Blandford for eight years and a resident of the town for more than 20. PC Evans joined the force at the age of 18 on 4th October 1982 from his native Wales, and after police training school was posted to Bournemouth in December of that year. He served all over the county and was community beat officer in Verwood for six years before transferring to Blandford in 2000. "My first day was on Georgian Fayre day, but I saw none of it because I had prisoners to deal with," he recalls. Originally posted to response in Blandford, he took over from PC Graham Collins in 2004 as community beat officer and has since seen the introduction of the PACT process, the setting up of CCTV cameras in the
town, the revival of the LVA and introduction of a pub warning system. He has liaised between the police and Blandford Camp and Bryanston School, and has acted as a family liaison officer for some very distressing incidents. This summer he spent five weeks in Weymouth in charge of the harbour office during the Olympics, liaising between the police, harbour authority and Navy in what he described as a "once-in-a-lifetime experience". "Policing has changed greatly since I joined and I couldn't have done these 30 years without the support of my wife Sarah, who after taking a career break when our children were growing up now works full time with the East Dorset Heritage Trust in Wimborne," said PC Evans, 48. "Her father was a sergeant in the South Wales police, and we were neighbours in the village of Pontardawe just outside Swansea, and school friends from when I was 13." Outside his police work, he is a parent governor at The Blandford School where his two children are pupils, and has also been involved in the Rights Respecting Communities programme, the Yuletide Festival, is treasurer of the Royal British Legion branch, and has recently become a trustee for the Blandford Museum and Information Centre. PC Evans has been succeeded as community beat officer for Blandford by PC Rob Hammond, who has transferred from a similar post in Kinson.
Forces charity in fundraising action SSAFA Forces Help is a national charity for those who serve in the Armed Forces, those who used to serve, and their families, committed to provide a lifetime of support to anyone who has ever served. It has regionalised networks of branches for ex-service personnel and their families, and of service committees for those currently serving. The branch at Blandford Camp is responsible for a number of fundraising activities, including, at the beginning of October, a Big DriveThru which operated at the main and rear gate, and a cake stall outside the Camp community centre. On Remembrance Sunday, members will be serving up refreshments following the services held on camp. A fundraiser for the Blandford Service Committee, WO2 Barney Revell, was last month chosen as Individual Fundraiser of the Year in the first Ian Sloss Awards, commemorating one of the charity's leading fundraisers. Barney has raised tens of thousands of pounds and created an enormous amount of awareness through his tireless work, which has included arranging bag packs at supermarkets as well as the Big Drive Through raising money at the garrison gatehouse.
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November 2012
FOCUS on schools
MP sees benefits of store’s voucher scheme NORTH Dorset MP Bob Walter joined pupils and teachers from DT11-area schools to celebrate their success in Tesco's Schools & Clubs scheme at the Stour Park store in Blandford St Mary. Archbishop Wake Primary School, Blandford St Mary CE First School, Milldown Primary School and The Blandford School were represented at the presentations of equipment provided through vouchers collected by Tesco customers and redeemed as part of the nationwide scheme. Products ranging from computers to gardening tools, and from sports equipment to musical instruments, can be purchased with the vouchers. Last year, schools and clubs around the country benefited from the acquisition of 440,000 items worth £9.3 million. Mr Walter said he was delighted that schools across his constituency had been able to take advantage of the scheme. In the same week, he visited senior schools in Sturminster Newton and Shaftesbury as part of Local Democracy Week. On 9th November he is due to take part in Tesco voucher presentations to schools in the Shaftesbury area. The next constituency surgery with Mr Walter in Blandford is on Friday 14 December from 4pm6pm, for which appointments can be booked by calling Diana Mogg on 01258 452585 or emailing moggd@parliament.uk.
Blandford school team comes out on top in debating contest A TEAM of students from the Blandford School was judged the winner of an inter-school debating contest held at Sherborne School for Boys. The team of James Willis-Fisher, Beni Hofmann and Micah Mackay (Year 11) took on the challenge and won, defeating Sherborne School and Bryanston School. After getting through the qualifying round, where they spoke against the motion: 'This House believes that the way to a man's heart is through his stomach', the three Blandford students faced Sherborne School in the final, where they successfully argued in favour of the motion, 'The pen is mightier than the sword'. They spoke articulately and persuasively, with confidence and passion, and the school prime minister, James Willis-Fisher, was given an additional award as the outstanding speaker of the evening in his category. Blandford entered five teams in all, and the students all performed well against strong opposition, and enjoyed their first real experience of formal debating.
The Blandford School’s James WillisFisher, voted the outstanding speaker in the inter-school debating competition held at Sherborne School for Boys.
Hundreds support event for new primary building at Pimperne A GRAND autumn fayre in Pimperne village hall raised about £1,000 for the primary school, which is looking forward
to a replacement building being constructed on the neighbouring site. Members of the Friends of Pimperne Primary School and PTA ran stalls and activities for hundreds of visitors, young and old, from the village and beyond. Headmaster Jerome da Silva, who has been in post only since September, said: "We are looking forward to what is going to be a very exciting time for the school." Caroline Moore, spokesperson for the Friends, who organised the event, said: "We were fortunate in having a lovely sunny day, and are grateful to everyone who supported and helped us on the day."
LEFT: Brothers Aaron and Toby Cawley, aged eight and five, try their hand at decorating apples with chocolate helped by Liz Fielding, left, and Caroline Moore of the PTA at the Pimperne Primary School autumn fayre.
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November 2012
FOCUS on sport
Trophy honours bowls club stalwart Phil
AN open day at Blandford Badminton Club gave visitors a chance to try their hand at the sport with more experienced players. Chairman Dan Deakin and committee member Janet Johnson are pictured in the foreground with some of their players, young and old, on the court. The club, established in 1971, meets on a Monday night at Blandford Leisure Centre between 7pm and 9.30pm from September to April. It has a number of teams competing in leagues, but welcomes all levels of experience.
Seniors’ winning finale ASHLEY Wood Golf Club Seniors welcomed Highcliffe Seniors for their last match of the season when they were captained by Club Chairman, John Cousens, who had recently graduated to being a Senior. The home team won a tight match, 3.5 to 2.5. Top players were Peter Routh and Bob Jones winning 4&3, John Cousens and Des Maguire up 3&2, Mike Lane and Gerald Clarke winning 3&2 with Arthur Rawson and John Buckeridge halving a close match. The last away match of the season was a good win for the Seniors, 4 and 2 at Bulbury Woods, captained by Ian Robinson.
Joan Collier presents the cups to the winners: (from left) John Greening, Barry Males, Joan Collier, Kev Donaldson and Gerry Griffin. THE final competition of the season at Blandford Bowling Club saw a contest for the Phil Collier Cup on the Milldown Road green. It was the second time the trophy has been contested since it was presented by his wife Joan, who is now the ladies' captain, to commemorate Phil, who was a stalwart of the club and had been captain for five years. The competition is designed to encourage lower ability bowlers by pairing them with a more experienced player. The 34 contestants were drawn into four round-robin leagues which were keenly contested, with only Jen Greening and Sylvia Pink going through undefeated to the knock-out competition which followed. They met Kev Donaldson and Gerry Griffin who proved to be too strong, and John Greening and Barry Males defeated Ann Dennis and Norman Arnold to go through and win the final.
Progress on station projects THE annual 'steam-up' of the Three Okefords Preservation Society was hosted at the Old Ox Inn at Shillingstone, the venue used in the past before the reopening of Shillingstone station, which this year was unavailable due to the laying of track. Projects at the station are moving forward following a build-up of funds over the summer. The down platform shelter is under construction in its original position thanks to a donation from the Three Okefords Steam Fair in April, and work by the new site project manager John Drew and a team of volunteers. Spokesman Jeremy Davies said: "This is the sort of project for which we need more volunteers, as well as other small projects around the station and railway." He said rolling stock would be changing in the near future following the appointment of a new carriage and wagon project manager, Ian Harrington, who has inspected the present rolling stock and made recommendations which the board of trustees have accepted. "Some will be disposed of and replaced with new acquisitions more suitable to our needs," he said. "Temporary track is to be laid to move the rolling stock around in order to allow the Ruston diesel locomotive to be taken away for a major overhaul and to position the rolling stock for disposal in a more convenient position. "The model railway project is also slowly moving forward and we wish to thank all those kind people who have supplied so much material, and historical information about the site."
Wrong names A COUPLE of errors crept into last month's publication, so apologies to Lance Ferguson at the Stour Inn for giving him the surname Armstrong, and to the parents of Natasha Evans, Grant and Nathalie, who were incorrectly said to be her grandparents.
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November 2012
FOCUS on churches Christian books and coffee lounge attract plenty of interest LIBERTY Books has launched its new book room and coffee lounge on Clump Farm industrial estate on the northern edge of Blandford. A service of dedication was attended by representatives from churches in Blandford and district, followed by an open day which attracted more 100 people. The book room is open from Tuesday to Friday between 10am and 4pm and everyone is welcome to call and browse the 10,000-plus second-hand and new Christian books and Bibles. There is also a large range of Christian greetings cards and a comfortable coffee lounge where visitors can relax and enjoy a cup of coffee with friends. Liberty Books can be found at Unit 2B, Clump Farm industrial estate, at the end of Tinpot Lane, Blandford (tel 01258 458380).
ABOVE: Preparations are made for lowering the damaged weathervane from above the cupola on top of Blandford parish church. TOP RIGHT: Specialist restorer Graham Rogers eases it down from the parapet of the church. RIGHT: Graham Rogers, his son Jordan and Andrew Wells of G & S Steeplejacks of Paulton, Bristol, with the weathervane, which they will now restore.
Rector expects to learn a lot while on month’s teaching visit to world’s newest country BLANDFORD's rector, the Rev Tim Storey, is spending a month in Africa, teaching at a theological college in South Sudan, the newest country in the world. He has joined a colleague from Salisbury as the pioneers of a diocesan project to encourage the teaching and training of church leaders in South Sudan, which became an independent country 15 months ago. Mr Storey, who is staying in Mundri, a town 115 miles from the capital, Juba, took with him £700 donated by parishioners in Blandford to purchase materials for the South Sudanese. The two clergy have joined the staff of Bishop Ngalamu College in Mundri, where they will assist in the training of around a dozen church leaders from the area. Mr Storey, said "This is an amazing opportunity to gain a series of different perspectives - on the world, on the Church and even for myself. "I have no doubt that I will learn more from those I am visiting than they will learn from me."
Weathervane removed for essential repairs THE WEATHERVANE on top of Blandford Parish Church tower was bought down to the ground for the first time in decades on Friday after it was discovered it was in need of repair. The holder on which it stands had broken, causing it to sink into a groove which allowed it to move only a few degrees from side to side, thus failing to indicate which way the wind was blowing. Graham Rogers of G & S Steeplejacks, a specialist company used by the church authorities for many years, was joined by his son Jordan and colleague Andrew Wells to scale the tower
and the cupola above it and remove the 30kg piece of copper and lead, which was then lowered gently to the ground from the parapets. Mr Rogers said: "The last big job we did [in Blandford] was taking down a downpipe in 1995." The bells of the parish church of St Peter and St Paul, which have been silent since just after the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations while essential maintenance and repair was carried out, were restored to their full glory in the middle of August, when the clock on the church tower was also restarted.
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November 2012
FOCUS on charities
Anne Allan (back, left), Joy Reynolds and Pat Leggin show off some of the fabrics for sale at Tarrant Keyneston village hall behind event organiser June Davey (front, left), helper Tricia Bright and Naomi House fundraiser Pam Bacon.
Rotary hands over cheques to help more young people CONTINUING its programme of support for local organisations who serve and help young people, Blandford Rotary has handed out more cheques. After donations to two local Scout groups from the proceeds of the Jubilee Festival in June, the club has made further donations to The Ark nursery and pre-school in Child Okeford (£100) and to Youth Aid in Blandford (£250). The Ark manager Pauline Pinkney received the cheque from Club president Nic Nicol and said it was very much appreciated. The money will go towards improvements to the outside play area. Two days later, Nic handed out another cheque, this time to Youth Aid manager Sue Diffey.
She said: "Blandford Rotary asked us if there was anything we needed. We said we badly needed office equipment for our new premises in Anchor Gateway off Salisbury Street and now, thanks to Rotary, we have the money to get everything we need." Rotary members have been impressed by the Youth Aid organisation and in particular the fact that young volunteers helped out at a Work Day at Angus Wood. A Youth Aid Ball to raise funds for the group was due to be held at the Crown Hotel on 2nd November, opened by Mayor Sara Loch and with local teenager Jack Delaney, the Olympic torch-bearer, as guest of honour.
Funds raised by the metre A FABRIC sale in support of Naomi House children's hospice held in Tarrant Keyneston village hall raised an astonishing £4,200 for the charity. The hall was packed with stalls offering materials and associated items, as well as with people buying up the measured pieces, fabrics on a roll, and bags of items from the rag room, which Naomi House fundraiser Pam Bacon said was extremely popular.
"The whole idea came from June Davey, who is a great ambassador for Naomi House and has been fundraising for the hospice since it started," said Pam. "She and her team set up collections points across Dorset and South Wiltshire to collect donated items. There was quite a lot left, so there is likely to be another similar event just before Christmas.” Proceeds were swelled by a raffle and refreshments served by of the local Women's Institute. "We were completely overwhelmed by the number of people who came and the amount of money raised," said Pam.
Rotary cheques for Blandford Youth Aid (above) and The Ark, Child Okeford.
Ben’s friends reach for the stars in his memory ANOTHER fundraiser by friends of the late Ben Andrews will involve 30 of them in a sky-dive in December to support the Fire Fighters' Charity. Firefighters were the first of the emergency services on the scene when 19-year-old Ben suffered fatal injuries in a car crash on the Pimperne road out of Blandford on May Bank Holiday Monday, and his family have pledged to support the charity in recognition of their efforts to save him. The youngsters were encouraged by actor Martin Trenaman who met them when they donned animal outfits to collect donations in return for bag-packing at Tesco. They are aiming for a total of £8,000 through all their efforts. A memorial drive in September raised more than £1,200 and the sale of wristbands and a collection by Damory Coaches at the Great Dorset Steam Fair raised another £1,200. A memorial bench has been bought by the family for installation at Blandford Youth Centre where Ben was a volunteer.
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November 2012
FOCUS on charities
Mayor rises to challenge of walking while ‘blind’ NATIONAL Blind Awareness Day was marked in Blandford by members of the Dorset Blind Association inviting the Mayor, Sara Loch, to put on a blindfold and walk around the town centre. She was accompanied by Margaret Hemus, of Blandford St Mary, who is partially sighted and runs the Blandford branch of the blind association. Ms Loch's route took her through the Market Place, up Salisbury Street, over the pedestrian crossing and back down to the bottom of the street where she had to negotiate the two cross-
Members of Dorset Blind Association, Blandford Lions Club, the Macular Disease Society and the charity Woofability gather to mark National Blind Awareness Day in Blandford, when Margaret Hemus helped guide the blindfolded Mayor of Blandford Sara Loch on a walk around town to discover some of the difficulties associated with sight loss. ings to the former Half Crown Cafe and Greyhound House. Afterwards she said: "It was quite scary. It certainly raised my awareness of the difficulties faced by people who are visually impaired." Lions Club members were pres-
ent in the Market Place to promote their international Spectrek campaign, collecting discarded spectacles for the disadvantaged abroad. They also handed out their Message in a Bottle packs, which contain vital information
for the emergency services and are for people to keep in their fridges at home. Also represented were Woofability, the charity which trains dogs to befriend disabled people, and the local branch of the Macular Disease Society.
Huge support brings in cash for Macmillan THOUSANDS of pounds have been raised at local events for Macmillan Cancer Support through the annual series of World's Biggest Coffee Mornings and through a music festival at a pub. Between £5,000 and £6,000 was raised for Macmillan Cancer Support at the festival hosted on two nights by the True Lovers Knot at Tarrant Keyneston in its camping field and garden. The Figure 8 Festival was organised by Laura Williams and friends, with the help of licensee Chris Burge, in recognition of the help the charity gave Laura's sister when she was diagnosed with cancer. As well as 20 bands, there was food, local ale and cider, a giant raffle and an art auction. A tea, coffee and cake stall acknowledged the following week's World's Biggest Coffee Morning for the charity, staged at venues all over the country including Okeford Fitzpaine, Ansty, Spetisbury and Iwerne Minster village halls on Friday and Shillingstone on Saturday, where the village's recently opened Bright Sparks nursery joined in the fundraising drive with an event at their premises in the grounds of Shillingstone Primary School that raised a magnificent £686.14. Among the other contributors to the charity's annual fundraiser, which, by mid-October had raised more than £4 million nationally, were the tea and coffee drinkers at Charlton Marshall church rooms, at Spetisbury village hall, at Iwerne Minster, at Child Okeford village hall, at Barclays banks in Blandford, Sturminster Newton and Shaftesbury, and at the Nationwide in Blandford. Also in Blandford, a well-supported coffee morning with a grand raffle of 29 prizes at the Hambledon Gallery, raised nearly £1,000.
Laura Williams, right, and Chris Burge with helpers Katie Steele, left, and Chelsea Jones at the Figure 8 Festival. Bright Sparks staff (from left), manager Sarah Smith, apprentice Jasmine KellawayMoore and deputy manager Gemma Payne, with nursery children at their Macmillan fete.
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November 2012
Hospice to benefit from the Calendar Girls’ raw courage!
Award-winning actress Tracie Beardsley will play Celia in Calendar Girls at the Tivoli Theatre in Wimborne.
FOREST Holme Hospice in Poole has been chosen as one of the local charities to benefit from the Churchill production of the Calendar Girls by Tim Firth at the Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne (7th to 11th November). The true story of a group of Yorkshire WI members posing nude for a calendar to raise money for the Leukaemia Research Fund is being repeated nationwide following the release of the rights for performance by amateur dramatic groups. Award-winning local amateur actress Tracie Beardsley said: "When I was cast as Celia in Calendar Girls and was told that profits from the show would go to local cancer charities, I put Forest Holme Hospice forward. "I will never forget the way Forest Holme Hospice looked after my friend Stephanie Penrose, and I think raising money through this show is particu-
larly apt as it revolves around photographs - an interest very close to Steph's heart. My only regret is that she is not here to see the show." Diane Platt, charity manager at Forest Holme Hospice, says: "It was the loss of Calendar Girl Angela Baker's husband John to cancer that spurred the women on to make the calendar and the rest is history! "Here at Forest Holme Hospice we are inspired every day by the strength and commitment of our patients and their families as they deal with cancer and other life-limiting illnesses. We are delighted to have the support of the play and are looking forward to an uplifting performance." For tickets call 01202 885566 or go to www.tivoliwimborne.co.uk and for original calendars produced by the cast and on sale from Forest Holme Hospice, call 01202 670644.
Forum Focus - forthcoming meetings & events NOVEMBER Saturday 3rd November: Blandford Town Museum quiz night, 7pm at Parish Centre, teams of six @ £7 per head to include refreshments. Tickets from the museum. Saturday 3rd November: Pimperne village hall celebrates its 20th birthday with a barn dance. Monday 5th November: Blandford & District Floral Group meets, United Reformed Church Hall, 2.15pm. Demonstration by Marion Catt, Autumn Lights. Visitors £4. Membership £15. Flower raffle, tea and biscuits, details from Jean on 01258 452889 Tuesday 6th November: Woolover woollen sale, Corn Exchange, Blandford, from 9am Wednesday 7th November: Blandford Art Society practical evening with Jenny Trotman: Introduction to calligraphy for the artist, Blandford Parish Centre, 7pm to 9.15pm Wednesday 7th November: Blandford Forum Film Society presents A Separation (Iran, PG), Blandford School, 7.30pm, contact 01258 452975 Wednesday 7th to Sunday 11th November: Churchill Productions present 'Calendar Girls', Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne, 7.30pm Weds to Sat, 2.30pm Sat and Sun, box office 01202 885566 Thursday 8th November: Indoor Market, Corn Exchange, Blandford Thursday 8th November: Blandford Mortain Twinning Association AGM and talk with tastings on 'Les Aperitifs', Blandford Parish Centre, 7.30pm Friday 9th November: Farmers' Market, Blandford Market Place Friday 9th November: Artsreach present Dalla, Winterborne Stickland village hall, 7.30pm, details 01258 880920 Saturday 10th November: Friends of Milldown Primary School Autumn Fair, Corn Exchange, Blandford, 10am to
noon Entries in this diary are Saturday 17th November: Parish Sunday 11th free of charge. If you Church charity barn November: have an event you dance, Corn Exchange, Remembrance Sunday would like included, Blandford, from 7pm and Armistice Day, please send details to services at churches Saturday 17th Nicci Brown, 01258 around the district, and November: Owdyadoo 459346 or email Blandford Royal British Theatre present s.n.b@btinternet.com Legion parade and 'Wrongdoings and service from 2.45pm, Wake Up Calls at the Blandford town centre and parish Stop Off Motel', Durweston village hall, church 7.30pm Sunday 11th November: Tom and Saturday 17th November: Artsreach John Frankland in 'Frankland & Sons', present 'Standing in Line' with the an Artsreach promotion, Child Okeford Lester Simpson Trio, Ibberton village village hall 7.30pm hall, 7.30pm, details 01258 817555 Monday 12th November: Blandford Sunday 18th November: Okeford Forum Ladies' Probus Club luncheon Fitzpaine Christmas Market meeting at the Crown Hotel, 12 noon Monday 19th to Friday 23rd for 12.30pm. Speaker Frank Tandy, November: Dorset Safeguarding The Wimborne Chain Library. Details Children Week 01258-453238 or email: gretachippenWednesday 21st November: dale@talktalk.net Blandford Carers Group meeting, Monday 12th November: Child PLUSS Mobility, Holland Way Okeford Centre for Care and Learning, Industrial Estate, Blandford 2 to 4pm. David Wheeler (Swan Herd) talks Details 01258 459215 about Abbotsbury Swannery. To book Wednesday 21st November: and for more details 01258 860767 Blandford Forum Film Society presThursday 15th November: Election ents 'Win Win' (USA, Cert. 15), for Dorset Police and Crime Blandford School, 7.30pm contact Commissioner, polling stations open 01258 452975 7am to 10pm Wednesday 21st November: Valley Friday 16th November: Artsreach Gardening Club: How to build a present 'The Dancer & The Devil' by Christmas display, Pamela Hambro Rogue Theatre, Sturminster Marshall Hall, Winterborne Stickland 7.30pm village hall, 7.30pm, details 01258 Thursday 22nd November: Indoor 857019 Market, Blandford Corn Exchange Friday 16th November: Durweston Saturday 24th November: Players quiz night. For details see Larksmead Pre-School Christmas Fair, www.durweston.org.uk Corn Exchange, Blandford, from 9am Friday 16th November: Blandford Saturday 24th November: Blandford Age UK Fashion Show, Allendale Fashion Museum free open day Centre, Wimborne, 6.45 for 7pm. Saturday 24th November: Chase Saturday 17th November: Blandford Benefice Christmas Fair for the and Sturminster Newton Cats Salisbury-Sudan Medical Link, 11am Protection League coffee morning and to 2pm, Tarrant Keyneston village hall sale, Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion, Saturday 24th November: Charity Blandford, 10am to 12.30pm night with Meatloaf tribute, The Crown, Saturday 17th November: Panda Blandford. For tickets call 07887 Pre-School Christmas Fair, Corn 728318 Exchange, Blandford, from 9am
Sunday 25th November: Blandford Art Society Sunday workshop with Graham Oliver: Landscape and Still Life, Pimperne village hall, 10am to 4pm Friday November 30: Blandford and District U3A open meeting, Durweston Village Hall, 2.15pm Friday 30th November: Durweston Film Night, Hope Springs, Durweston village hall 7.30pm DECEMBER Saturday 1st December: Town Crier's coffee morning, Corn Exchange, Blandford, from 9am Saturday 1st December: Bryanston Christmas Bazaar, 10am to 1pm Saturday 1st December: Durweston Choral Society Soiree, Durweston village hall, 7.30pm Saturday 1st December: 'Simon & Garfunkel' evening with Debbie and Martin Ansell, Ann Biddlecombe hall Tarrant Keyneston Saturday 1st December: Charlton Marshall Annual Tea Party, Village Hall 2-4.30pm. £2.50 per person to include tea/coffee and cake and all entertainment. Call 01258 452457 to book a place. Monday 3rd December: Monday to Thursday every week, excl. Bank Holidays, Charlton Marshall Online Centre in the Church Room opposite Charlton Inn from 10.30-12.30. Tel: 01258 452457 for more details. Monday 3rd December: Blandford & District Floral Group meets United Reformed Church Hall, 2.15pm. Christmas demonstration by Michael Bowyer MBE 'A Carol for Christmas'. Visitors £4, details 01258 452889 Monday 3rd December: Child Okeford Centre for Care and Learning, Peter Robson (folklorist) on ‘Dorset Christmases in Bygone Days’. To book and for more details 01258 860767