March 2013 Forum Focus

FORUM FOCUS For Blandford and surrounding villages Issue No. 12

George Hewett, Blandford’s top Young Musician: Page 19

March 2013

Rescue plea as town’s iconic church crumbles AN OPEN day at Blandford Parish Church of St Peter & St Paul on Saturday 16th February gave people an opportunity to see why church leaders have embarked on a 10-year project to fund a multi-million pound restoration programme.

It was the next stage in the project, launched two years ago, and offered presentations on why the work is needed. It illustrated the crumbling stonework in what is arguably the town's premier building, which is Grade 1 listed and has been described as the best Georgian church architecture outside London.

People were also invited to give their views on how the building might be adapted for use in the 21st century.

Project manager Sara Loch, who is this year Blandford's Town Mayor and has made the project

by Nicci Brown

one of her Mayoral charities, said: "We want to know how people feel it could be adapted and better used now and in the future.

"We showed examples of where the church fabric is in need of attention, including pictures of areas currently inaccessible to the public for health and safety reasons."

The structure, built to replace the original building destroyed in the Great Fire of 1731, is in desperate need of attention after generations of neglect, and the layout is ill-suited to present-day use, in particular by the disabled and for activities prevalent today.

It has been much adapted over the years, including the addition of the 1891 extension when the apse at the east end was moved back 25 yards on rollers to allow the inclusion of a choir and chancel.

The Cupola Project, so named because the finale is planned to be the restoration of the iconic cupola on top of the church tower, was estimated two years ago to cost around £5 million, and fundraising has continued with a number of Looking down from the top of the cupola on events.

Blandford Parish Church demonstrates the extent of deterioration of some of the structure.

To Page 4

INSIDE YOUR FORUM FOCUS Corn Exchange plan defended Page 3

Council tax set to rise after 3 years Page 5

Recycling fears overwhelm staff

FORUM FOCUS: Your FREE monthly community newspaper

Page 6

Hopes for new transport group Page 7

Award double for caring neighbour Page 9

Schoolgirl’s talent show triumph Page 18 www.forumfocus.co.uk

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March 2013

FORUM FOCUS CONTACTS Editorial: Nicci Brown T: 01258 459346 E: editor@forumfocus.co.uk Advertising: John Stayt T: 01258 454427 E: advertising@forumfocus.co.uk Distribution: Jackie Stayt T: 01258 456999 E: distribution@forumfocus.co.uk Design: David Eidlestein T: 01258 450989 E: wordmasters@gmx.co.uk

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DROP POINTS Main drop points for Forum Focus in Blandford and Blandford St Mary are at Blandford Post Office, Blandford Library, Jeans and the Corn Exchange in the Market Place, James Newsagents in The Plocks, Homebase, the Co-ops in Langton Road and Salisbury Road, Tesco at Stour Park, One Stop in Salisbury Road, Blandford Leisure Centre and the Heddington Drive Nisa shop.

In the villages they are at the Charlton Marshall Church Rooms and Charlton pub, Woodpecker pub at Spetisbury, True Lovers Knot and Langton Arms in the Tarrant Valley, Pimperne shop, White Horse Inn at Stourpaine, Iwerne Minster post office, Shillingstone garage, Royal Oak at Milborne St Andrew and Winterborne Stickland Post Office.

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Blandford Forum Town Council Town Council Precept 2013/14

Dog Warden at Larksmead

Blandford Forum Town Council's budget for the financial year 2013-2014 has been increased by 3.87%, which means an increase of £5.81 for a Band D property or 11p per week. The changes made by Central Government in the way funding is applied to Town Councils have adversely affected the income received by councils. The following actions from the Town Council's Strategic Plan for 2012-2016 will be progressed: the redevelopment and regeneration of the Corn Exchange, the expansion of the cemetery, a multi-games area, outdoor adult fitness equipment and the provision of dog warden hours at Larksmead playing field. In addition, the Town Council will continue its support for Blandford Leisure Centre, by committing to £50,000 a year for a period of 7 years. Throughout the year the Town Council will continue to manage its venues, public conveniences, facilities and services provided for the residents of Blandford Forum and visitors to the town.

The Town Council has agreed to commit funding for Dog Warden Hours to ensure that there are regular patrols at Larksmead playing field in an attempt to improve the current situation that is being created by irresponsible dog owners. Larksmead is there to be used by all members of the public and it is not acceptable that dog waste is not being collected. The Dog Warden is granted the power to issue on the spot fines, and the regulations state specifically that being unaware that your dog has fouled, or not having a suitable means of removing the faeces is not a reasonable excuse for failing to clean up after your dog.

Contribution to Blandford Leisure Centre £ 50,000 Grants to Local Organisations £ 22,000 Capital Expenditure £ 47,197 Town Projects/Improvements £ 25,600 General Running Costs £462,005 (after Net Grant from Government) (including insurance costs of £24,400) Contingencies £ 7,500 Income offset - £ 90,321 (from hire of venues, other income etc.)

Total £523,981

Refurbishment of Town Council Play Areas

The Town Council has made a resolution to refurbish both Park Road and Langton Road Play Areas using the monies that they have been accruing over several years specifically for this purpose. The lifespan of the equipment and surfacing in both play areas was considered to be in need of updating. A number of companies were approached to submit a new design for both locations. The Town Council chose a design for each play area that contains equipment that is challenging to children's imaginations. Furthermore, following the installation of a swing for disabled use at Larksmead Play Area, all three of the Town Council's play areas will include a piece of equipment that is suitable for use by disabled children. Works started on 11th February 2013 and should be completed by 15th March 2013, therefore both Langton Road and Park Road Play Areas will be closed for the duration and public access will not be permitted although Larksmead Play Area will remain open for use.

Blandford Celebrations - May Day Hamdinger!

Carrying on from last year's Jubilee Riverside Party the Town Council's Celebrations Group is planning a repeat performance on May Day, Monday 6th May 2013. It will follow a similar format as last year including a showcase of the skills and talents of local organisations, the flotilla on the leet, refreshments both free and for sale, games and activities. If you would like to help in any way please call 01258 480756.

Folk, Country & Bluegrass Music Event The Country & Bluegrass music event held on Thursday 24th January 2013 was a great success and a very enjoyable morning! Teas, coffees and homemade cakes were sold and donations were given to raise money for the Mayor's Charities, which totalled nearly £400. The Town Council would like to thank everyone that attended and supported the event.

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March 2013

Council forced to defend £5m Corn Exchange scheme decision TOWN councillors have defended their decision to seek planning permission for a £5 million refurbishment and extension to Blandford's Corn Exchange and council offices after criticism by their planning committee chairman.

Councillor Mike Owen, as a member of the public, had asked for the issue to be discussed at February's full council meeting, because he said concern had been expressed about the viability and extent of the scheme.

He highlighted objections by some of the bodies that had been consulted about the plans, among them English Heritage.

The result had been that although the planning application was approved in principle by North Dorset District Council it was referred to the Secretary of State for the Environment for a ruling on whether there should be a public inquiry.

Mr Owen said that the town council had spent more than £100,000 on the project so far, and little or nothing on repair and maintenance.

He suggested that there were plenty of other rooms available for hire in the town and the three floors proposed above the existing community room were unnecessary. He also queried the building's stability for extension and regretted the loss of the stage, saying he did not want the council to "sleepwalk" into adopting the proposal.

Members challenged his allegation that they had not taken "ownership" of the project, which has been in the pipeline for several years and developed by a council-appointed Corn Exchange project board.

Councillor Steve Hitchings said: "This council has been trying to develop this project for longer

Bob’s new job TOWN councillors confirmed at their meeting on 11th February the appointment of Councillor Bob Brannigan, the current deputy mayor, as Mayor of Blandford for 2013/2014.

than I have been a member, and has consulted with the public on its very clear objective. We agreed to seek planning permission, but it does not mean we will build it."

Councillor Sylvia Hixson Andrews, a member of the project board, said it had gone into "mind-boggling detail' over the very complicated issue involving many interested parties.

She added: "We tried to keep in our minds that this is a public building with space that is not being used effectively. We need space which is rentable and all agreed we would go for planning approval."

She stressed that money would not come from the town's council tax payers. "There are many other ways to raise money," she said.

Councillor Bob Brannigan said that the granting of planning permission was just one of the milestones but the decision was needed before they could consider taking the project forward.

Councillors were told by project officer Nikki Ginn that in the past 10 years a total of £42,861.62 had been spent on maintenance and repairs to the building. A full structural survey carried out in 2003 had concluded there were no structural problems associated with the stability of the building, and the current stage could not be adapted, partly because it is housed in a building separate to the Corn Exchange itself.

Flexible staging and sound and lighting will make it adaptable for use for music, dance, comedy, films, functions, exhibitions, lectures and theatre.

Omitting the top floor of the council office building had been considered, but only two of the floors would have space to let or into which the town council could expand, because space for equipment was needed.

It was agreed by 12 votes to one with two abstentions that the council stick to its decision of September 2011 to seek planning permission, and await the Secretary of State's decision.

PUPILS from Durweston Primary School marked Shrove Tuesday in traditional style when they walked around the village singing their shroving song and leaving flowers at every house. At many doors they were rewarded with something to eat, and at the end of the morning they laid flowers on the grave of Valentine Rickman, whose legacy helps maintain the long-established village tradition.

No to longer takeaway hours AN application to extend the opening hours of the fast food outlet at 10 West Street, Blandford, to 2am daily has been refused. Blandford Town Council objected to the application on the grounds that other fast food outlets did not open so long into the early hours. North Dorset District Council planning officers found it would impact negatively on the amenity of residents and on the character of the conservation area.

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March 2013

Warning that benefit changes will hit poorest

Historic town church in desperate rescue plea From Page 1 There will also be a need for major grant support for what will include extensive structural work.

Temporary repairs have been made to the cupola, and last year steeplejacks went up the tower to bring down the weathervane for attention.

They took the pictures, demonstrating the state of the structure, and there are many other examples of how the building has deteriorated over the years.

Visitors were able to see exam-

ples of rotten floorboards, death watch beetle, damp in the bell tower and original nails which have recently fallen from the ceiling. They also saw the weathervane, which cannot be relocated until the work is completed, and some 18th century graffiti among numerous photos of the church.

They saw artists' impressions of how the body of the church might be used as an art gallery or for dancing, pictures of how other churches of the same period have been refurbished, and were asked for their views on whether some or all of the pews should be removed, how best to use the side chapel, and whether the south door should be brought back into use.

An afternoon concert is to be held in the church on Palm Sunday, 24th March, presented

by Blandford Choral Society, and the proceeds will go to the Cupola Project. Starting at 4pm, it will include Schubert's 'Mass in G', in addition to some shorter anthems, and tea and cakes will be served at the conclusion.

Tickets, priced at ÂŁ8 will be available at the door, or in advance from 'Set Fair for Trade' in Salisbury Street or the Church Office.

BENEFIT changes coming into effect on 1st April will impact on hundreds of claimants in North Dorset, as will the introduction of the new Universal Credit.

The district council is acting as a pilot for Universal Credit by focusing on the Blandford and Stour Vale wards. Blandford has been chosen because of the high number of benefit claimants, particularly in Old Town ward, and Stour Vale because it is a primarily rural area with greater access issues than most.

Some claimants will find themselves having to pay council tax for the first time and also face rent rebate restrictions.

Councillors were told in February that pensioners and vulnerable groups, amounting to 3,000 of the 4,600 in receipt of benefit, are protected from the new charges, but 1,600 will face the impact of the new scheme offered by the district council.

It has been introduced because central government has passed responsibility for administering the scheme to the district and reduced the amount of funding available.

Lib Dem leader David Milsted said: "The benefit changes are dressed up as an inducement to go and get work, but two-thirds of benefit claimants in North Dorset are in work. What are the lowpaid supposed to do, go and ask for a rise? I do wonder what planet our coalition lives on.

"People who were getting 100 per cent relief will now have to pay 8.5 per cent. Foodbanks have fed over 1,000 people, and the biggest reason for having no food, more than all the others combined, is a delay to their benefit claim or change in circumstances. These are the people who are going to have to pay some council tax."

Paul Hudson, general manager of Stour Valley Partnership which administers benefits in North Dorset, said they were working with those who will be affected by the new scheme to help them prepare for the change.

Council leader Deborah Croney explained how the new system would also impact on the council, and why some council tax discounts were having to be with-

drawn, particularly in the area of second homes and empty properties.

"Benefits affect the council tax base and impact on our ability to raise council tax, and on that of the towns and parishes. We cannot afford the luxury of being generous to landlords and developers who have business plans and factor in voids."

Council leader to stand down DORSET County Council leader Angus Campbell has announced he is to stand down.

Mr Campbell is the member for Hambledon, representing the villages around Iwerne Minster and Shillingstone. He has led the authority for seven years and has been a councillor for a

total of 16 years since first being elected as Blandford's representative in 1989. He says he will not be seeking re-election when the county goes to the polls in May. He announced his decision at February's full council meeting, saying he felt new ideas were needed at the top and it was time for him to look for fresh challenges.

Mr Campbell said he was pleased to have led the council when it hosted the Olympic sailing events last year, but was disappointed not to be seeing the council through the austerity measures which looked set to continue for some years.

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March 2013

Trailway date goes back to May

GOOD GOING: Councillors at North Dorset District Council packed up more than 50 parcels of goods collected and sent for the SOS, Support Our Soldiers, appeal (www.supportoursoldiers.co.uk) made over the festive season to send to servicemen and women abroad.

District raises council tax for first time in three years BLANDFORD taxpayers will pay on average at least £19 a year more - 38p a week - in council tax this year.

Those in the villages will face a lower increase, dependent on their individual parish precepts, but still more than £8 after a £3.51 increase in the Dorset Police precept and a recommended £5 increase from North Dorset District Council, which met to finalise the figure on Thursday 21st February after Forum Focus went to press.

The decision will mean that North Dorset will remain the lowest taxed district in the county, with a total of £109.78 per Band D property - still less than the amount paid to the majority of town councils in the district.

Blandford Town Council, whose town bill is the highest in North Dorset, has agreed its precept for 2013/14 as £523,981, another £5.81 (3.87%) increase per band D property, bringing the total to £156.15.

The bulk of the council tax bill comes from Dorset County Council, which on 14th February agreed to freeze its share at last year's figure of Band D £1,168.29 after approving another £10.9m in cuts from its overall budget.

Dorset Fire Authority was expected on 21st February to raise its Band D precept by nearly £5 to £65.34, and Dorset's new Police and Crime Panel has agreed a 1.95% increase amounting to a Band D £181.51, which is £3.51 more

than at present.

The district council and fire authority are both relying on a special arrangement for the lowest taxed authorities in the country who are being allowed by central government to impose a higher increase.

Other authorities have frozen the tax or restricted the increase to under two percent after being told they must hold an expensive referendum to go higher.

North Dorset council leader, Cllr Deborah Croney, said: "We have held council tax for the last two years and we are fully aware that most residents would have preferred to see no rise again this year, given all the other pressures on household budgets.

"Cabinet considers this to be the right decision because, without this income, the Council would be forced to borrow in order to fulfil our commitments and to provide essential services to the district. And borrowing costs money: money earmarked for services would have to be diverted to finance our debts."

Late last year Mrs Croney met with local government minister Brandon Lewis MP to impress upon him the difficulties presented to low taxing authorities if they are only allowed to increase council tax by a very low percentage figure, as has happened for the last few years.

Since 2004/05 NDDC has reduced its budget by 30% (more than £4m) through a

series of cost reductions, shared services and prudent management, and has reduced the workforce by half and awarded no pay rise for three years.

THE date for the opening of the North Dorset Trailway into Blandford from Stourpaine has been put back to Sunday 19th May, when it is hoped that work to open up the former Somerset & Dorset railway line across the fields, under the bypass and on to the Milldown will be complete.

One reason for the delay has been the need to apply for the dedication of the route as a bridleway, for the diversion of existing public footpaths, and to bring it up to the standard required by Sustrans, which has offered considerable funding towards the project.

The path diversion was confirmed and published in January, and interested parties, including Blandford Town Council, were given until the middle of February to comment.

The multi-user route for walkers, riders and cyclists will generally be four metres wide, including a 2.5metre sealed surface more suited to cyclists and a 1.5-metre wide unsealed surface more suited to horse riders.

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March 2013

Villages vie to become best in the county LOCAL communities around Blandford are being challenged to bid for the title of Dorset's Best Village of 2013 in the annual contest organised by Dorset Community Action (DCA).

Entry packs have been sent inviting them to enter either through the parish council, village hall committee or other active community group. Pimperne and Child Okeford are among past winners in the competition that has been organised by DCA for the past 26 years.

Competition organiser Rita Burden, of Winterborne Zelston, said: "We want to encourage even more communities to take part. There are many who have never entered and all have the potential to win. Any organisation can enter its community - the village hall committee, school, youth club, Scout or Guide group. Even Dorset's small hamlets can enter.

"It is not just about how the village looks, it is about how active it is, how it builds community spirit and addresses the needs of its residents,

especially the more vulnerable."

Two special categories continue for a fourth year - the People's Project, for the best involving local active people, and Best Environment, for the most green initiatives.

The deadline for entries is Monday 8th April and judging starts in May. Groups can enter online, and entry packs can be downloaded from www.dorsetcommunityaction.org.uk or requested by telephoning DCA on 01305 216407.

Road show staff overwhelmed by recycling concerns STAFF from Dorset Waste Partnership (DWP) were inundated with inquiries from anxious householders when they presented information on the new Recycle for Dorset waste collection to be launched in June.

Hundreds attended a roadshow in Blandford Corn Exchange on Saturday 9th February and at Tesco the following Friday to learn about the new service, prompting complaints that many had to leave with their queries unanswered.

County councillor Barrie Cooper said people were very concerned about the proposals. Town councillors reported that people ringing the phone number given to raise individual concerns found those answering were unable to deal with their queries.

Bill Davidson, DWP's head of strategy, said: "Unfortunately, the five members of staff we had in Blandford - most of whom live in the town - were not enough to answer everyone's questions and we will look again at our staffing levels for future events."

The roadshows were designed to make people aware of the changes, see the new bins and ask general questions, he explained.

He added: "If residents have spe-

cific questions about how the new service will work for their property, it may be difficult for us to give them a definitive answer at a busy roadshow without looking at their individual circumstances and carrying out a site visit if necessary."

Households had until the end of February to notify the DWP by phone or via the website at www.dorsetforyou.com/recyclefordorset if they believe they will have difficulty storing or manoeuvring the bins and containers, so that alternative arrangements can be made before the launch in June.

Service development manager Lisa Mounty said: "There has been a high level of interest, the main issues being people wanting to see the bins, people who have concerns about where they are going to store them, and people wanting to know what we will be able to recycle.

"We can accept a lot more with this scheme than the one that has operated in the past, including cardboard, card, plastic trays and chicken bones."

Dorset Waste Partnership representatives explain the new waste collection service featuring wheelie bins and extra containers to members of the public in Blandford Corn Exchange.

She said the DWP had already identified certain properties which would be unable to accommodate the new bins, and the householders had been sent a different leaflet from the rest of the population explaining the alternatives.

Others were given the opportunity to go through the assessment

process before the scheme is launched. Presentations are continuing throughout the area to introduce the new scheme, at parish council meetings and in separate events at village halls, including one at Spetisbury Parish Council's meeting on Tuesday 19th March.

Heartfelt support LOCAL business Cobwebknits, which sells knitwear online, has been 'Rocking up in Red' with the British Heart Foundation during February. Proprietor Su Cowell has been running a competition to win one of their specially designed tea-cosies, with felt heart, logo and complete with six-cup traditional white teapot by selling tickets from the website costing ÂŁ1 each.

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March 2013

Another boost for hospice A FURTHER £1,750 was presented to Naomi House children's hospice following another sellout charity concert at the Crown Hotel, Blandford, organised by local bank worker Karen Shields.

It was the second evening featuring Terry Nash as tribute act Meetloaf, who was joined on this occasion by Hugh Budden as one half of the Blues Brothers while Terry transformed into the other.

Karen, who in November raised £1,500 for Naomi House with a similar charity night, joined Terry on stage for a duet before inviting community fundraiser Pam Bacon to join them for the presentation of the cheque.

Tickets will be going on sale next week for the next charity night at the Crown on Saturday 23rd March, when Meetloaf at the Movies will feature songs by Meat Loaf plus numbers from Grease, Dirty Dancing, Rocky Horror and others. For details call 07887 728318.

Transport group could bring about solutions FORMATION of a local Transport Action Group has been suggested as a way forward to examine and campaign on key issues for the area in the same way as the one that operates in the north of the district.

The suggestion to set up a group has come in response to the North Dorset Transport Study carried out by the community partnerships, and the withdrawal of funding from North Dorset District Council for some pre-concessionary fares in the district.

After hearing a presentation on the transport study at the DT11 meeting in February, chairman Scott Norman said: "If we don't form some sort of group we are missing out on the decision making. We need volunteers to get involved, and if they do, we will support them."

Hugh de Iongh, who presented the findings of the study, said a similar group worked well for the Gillingham and Shaftesbury area, and that Blandford and Sturminster Newton in the south had greater problems in accessing services.

The response to the study survey in the Blandford area was the highest in the district, with the highest number of responses from young and old people.

Campaigners for the elderly and for disabled people have been assured by district council leaders that everything possible is being done to mitigate the withdrawal of district council-funded pre-9.30am concessionary fares in North Dorset.

Council general manager Joyce Guest said: "If there is a pre-

9.30am bus and no other before 10.30am, the concession still applies. The routes are listed on Dorset for You." The district council has agreed to save the £20,000 a year it costs to support the 80 journeys a week covered by their scheme, and which over a five-year period could cost nearly £109,000.

The national scheme covers all post-9.30am journeys, and the Dorset County Council scheme supports those before 9.30am which have no alternative before 10.30am.

Councillors faced repeated accusations from representatives of organisations for the elderly at their January meeting that they had failed to consult adequately on the proposal to cut the extra concession, and instead set up a £5,000 fund for use by community transport schemes providing transport for medical appointments.

Council leader Cllr Deborah Croney said: "This is not the end of the story. It's not often I use the word holistic, but we are engaging in a holistic way and have established great dialogue across all sectors to consider all the issues of rural isolation, not just what is happening on the buses. " That work is being progressed through the North Dorset Travel Study group which will be meeting next on 11th March.

Dorset County Council has now launched a county-wide consultation into bus services, which can be found on www.dorsetforyou.com/busconsultation.

Terry Nash, aka Meetloaf, with concert organiser Karen Shields, Pam Bacon, community fundraiser of Naomi House, and 'Blues Brother' Hugh Budden at the charity night in the Crown.

Broadband hope for Valley A SCHEME that could extend the DT11 Trailway Broadband project to include the Tarrant Valley is being considered.

In the meantime, the team behind the project is waiting to hear whether its bid for funding from the Defra Rural Communities Broadband Fund has been successful.

Project manager Steve Adamson told the DT11 Partnership meeting that they were continuing to have positive discussions with Defra on the scheme to take an optic fibre service to areas which will not be reached by commercial operators or the county superfast broadband project.

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March 2013

Gwen celebrates with a ‘full house’ A WOMAN who spent most of the last 30 years helping to organise bingo sessions and trips for residents at Station Court celebrated her 100th birthday at Castleman House.

Four generations of Gwen Saunders's family gathered at the care home where she has lived for the past 18 months.

Mrs Saunders came to live in Blandford in 1980, and at Station Court became actively involved in helping organise bingo sessions and trips for the residents.

She moved to Castleman House when illness meant that she needed full-time care, but her daughter Julia Haley, who lives in Oxfordshire, said: "Physically she is fitter than all of us."

Mrs Saunders was adamant that she did not want to receive a birthday card from the Queen, saying: "I only get cards from the family, and the Queen isn't family."

But the look on her face when she opened the royal greeting in front of family members demonstrated that it was much appreciated.

Born on 31st January 1913 in Dorchester-onThames, Oxfordshire, she started work in service at the age of 14, and her employment included working in the kitchens of Great Milton Manor, now the home of Raymond Blanc's famous Le Manoir aux Quatre Saisons.

This was the start of a long career cooking meals for others and developing a love of food

Above: Gwen Saunders opens her card from the Queen with her family at her 100th birthday celebration at Castleman House. Right: Gwen looks in admiration at her cake. which she has retained throughout her life.

Since moving to Castleman House, she continues to enjoy her daily breakfast of fried egg, bacon and sausage, now cooked for her by kind staff.

Her daughter, two sons, eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren joined her, along with friends and carers, to celebrate the historic personal milestone of a muchloved lady.

Cricket enthusiast settled in Canada A SERVICE to celebrate the life of a Blandford man who emigrated to Canada was held in the Church of the Transfiguration in Toronto.

Colin Harvey died aged 78 after a long battle against skin cancer.

He was the son of Mr and Mrs A W Harvey, formerly of Kings Road, Blandford, and one of three siblings.

After spending his formative years in Blandford where he attended Blandford Grammar School, he won a scholarship to join HMS Conway in Wales and became first a junior Merchant Navy officer with the Blue Funnel Line in Liverpool and subsequently a navigating officer.

When his ship was laid up in Canada during a recession in the 1950s, he left the service and became an officer in the Canadian Police for three years.

After meeting his future wife Jennifer, he trained as a teacher and spent 25 years as a maths master at Upper Canada College.

The couple had two sons, Richard and Philip.

Like his father, who was a mem-

ber of Shroton Cricket Club, Colin was an ardent cricketer, a sport which, along with classical music and sailing, was his main passion. He was a cricket coach for 25 years and served as an umpire and match manager in local, national and international matches. He was treasurer of the Canadian Cricket Club Association and a senior member of the Cricket Canada Umpire Certification Committee.

In 1998 he brought a Canadian college cricket team to Dorset for a tournament, and attended a reunion of former Blandford Grammar School pupils and Pimperne Youth Club members.

He is survived by Jennifer, sister Liz, his two sons, granddaughter Alessandra, and fondly remembered by lifelong friend Owen Holland and his wife Marlene, of Larksmead House, Blandford.

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March 2013

Award double for caring friend and neighbour A DURWESTON man has received a second award for helping his neighbours and fellow carers.

Spectrum Signpost presented the Community Hero award to Peter Collins for his voluntary support to carers in the local community, and for setting up and running a thriving carers' group in Blandford.

He had previously been named as Signpost's Community Champion for his involvement with the Signpost residents' forum and on the planned and response repairs group, which he gave up to set up his carers' group.

He is also an active member of the Durweston community and serves on the village hall committee.

Liz Baker, resident involvement officer for Spectrum Signpost, said: "Peter is very caring and helpful, taking neighbours to shops, doctor and hospital appointments and to pick up their prescriptions.

"I have been fortunate to know Peter for a number of years now, and his involvement in lots of local activities.

"His most recent project has been the setting up of the carers' group in the Blandford area, giving much needed support to carers in the local area, a role he understands very well through caring for his wife, Jan.

"All his neighbours speak so highly of him for the help that he gives. He is a true friend as well as a neighbour. He gets involved and helps people because he genuinely cares, and is a very worthy winner of this award."

Peter's neighbour, Maisie Curtis, describes him as someone who "puts caring for his wife first and caring for those in the community a very close second".

His award is part of a new scheme recognising residents who contribute to the wellbeing of their community, and he received it at a presentation at Durweston village hall from Robin Walker on behalf of award sponsors Jewson, the builders' merchants.

As well as an engraved glass trophy, Peter was presented with a cheque for ÂŁ250 for his chosen charity, Motability, a national charity helping disabled people with their mobility needs by exchanging their mobility allowance for a new car, scooter or powered wheelchair.

He said: "It is an honour to be the first Community Hero for my area and to be able to give a cheque to Motability to help support the great work they do."

Thanking his neighbours who nominated him for the award, and Jewson for their sponsorship, he said: "Carers are the unsung heroes in our communities, as I know only too well, and they

Peter Collins with his trophy.

are often overlooked when it comes to support and advice."

His group, Blandford Carers, next meets at Pluss Mobility on the Holland Business Park on Wednesday 13th March from 2pm to 4pm.

There will be an outing for members to Athelhampton House and gardens on Wednesday 17th April instead of the monthly meeting, but meetings will resume in May, every third Wednesday.

For more information, call Peter Collins on 01258 459215 or email jancollins58@hotmail.co.uk

10

March 2013

Airman's niece thanks town for response after fatal flight

The grave of Norman Hartney in Blandford Cemetery.

ONE of the many graves in Blandford Cemetery of servicemen who died in World War II was of special significance last month for the family of a Canadian airman whose plane crashed in a field near the town in February 1943.

Norman John Patrick Hartney and his three RAF airmen colleagues were killed as they were returning from a mission. Mr Hartney's niece has thanked the people of Blandford, on the 70th anniversary of his death, for their response at the time.

She said: "The townspeople of Blandford showed kindness, respect and great sympathy for those airmen, on the day of their funeral, February 19, 1943.

"Newspaper clippings and letters sent to my grandmother, Elsie Hartney, provided the family with some consolation. Those items have remained treasured parts of our family history, and have been passed down from my grandmother, to my mother and now to me.

"February 16th marked the 70th anniversary of their passing. I would like to acknowledge how much the outpouring of shared grief of the townspeople meant to my family through the years.

"The boys are gone, as undoubtedly are many of those who attended the proceedings that day. But their memory is treasured. " She said her mother, Joyce Catherine Donovan, had always wanted to make a trip to the cemetery to see where her brother was buried.

"That was not to be. My mother passed away in August of 2011. At that time, someone from the local library who is writing a book about the cemetery was in touch with me, but unfortunately I have lost that contact information."

She said she would greatly appreciate getting back in touch with the person concerned, and would be glad to hear from them by email at dcdonovan@bell.net.

GP practice improves patient services THE Whitecliff Group Practice based in Child Okeford and Blandford has admitted some

teething problems with the introduction of a new computer system.

It will, however, enable the practice

to have much better access to patient information and to improve services, such as the online booking of appointments.

Changes have been made in recent months as a result of feedback through the active patient group.

The telephone system has been improved by increasing the number of incoming telephone lines and employing more staff to answer them.

Patients at both surgeries can continue to access doctors when they need them at extended surgeries several evenings each week. This is to help working people who find it difficult to attend the practice between 8.30am and 6.30pm.

At the Blandford surgery, patients have improved access to doctors through increasing the number of appointments and ensuring that patients with an urgent need for an appointment can speak with a doctor usually within two hours of their call.

Doctors at both sites are always accessible by telephone both for urgent and non-urgent matters, and patients wishing to speak to a doctor by telephone can leave their name with the receptionists, who will request the doctor to call back.

Practice manager Carol Tilley said: "Inevitably there are still times when people have to wait to get through due to a high volume of calls, and we continue to look for ways to reduce the waits. Patients should be aware that there are

times of high demand on the system, such as early mornings, and can help by calling later in the day.

"We are monitoring the length of wait for an answer, the volume of abandoned calls, the duration time of calls and the individual performance of the telephone operators so we can continue to make improvements in this area, as we are aware this can be frustrating.

"Our dispensaries have now established a delivery service to many of the village shops, so patients can pick up their medication in their local community without travelling into the surgeries.

We also provide home deliveries for housebound patients, and have an online ordering system for repeat prescriptions. We can manage repeat prescriptions on a patient's behalf for most medication to automatically repeat their orders each month.

She added that it was not safe practice to repeatedly interrupt the dispensers through the day to answer the telephone, so those needing to speak to the dispensary team by telephone should give their name to the receptionist to leave a message for a dispenser to call back that day.

She said the practice was committed to improving local GP health services by listening and acting on feedback, and thanked patients for their ongoing support, inviting further feedback or comment by contacting her on 01258 452501 or using the 'contact us' icon on their website at www.whitecliffpractice.co.uk

11

March 2013

Tesco store manager Mark Hopkins, a Cancer Research helper, Della Jones of Cancer Research UK, Blandford Mayor Sara Loch and Wendy Edwards of Cancer Research UK.

Local collectors boost funds NATIONWIDE support for Cancer Research UK by supermarket chain Tesco was swelled in Blandford over a weekend in February by the efforts of the Blandford branch of the charity who turned out in force to make a collection.

The event was organised by Wendy Edwards with help from Della Jones. They were joined by the Mayor of Blandford, Sara Loch, and store manager Mark Hopkins at the launch of the collection.

Mrs Jones, of Winterborne Zelston, has for many years been the charity's Dorset Ambassador, raising thousands of pounds for the cause. She thanked all volunteers and friends who gave up their time to help, and all those who donated towards a total of more than ÂŁ1,000.

An update on the work of Cancer Research UK will be given at a meeting of the group at Winterborne Zelston village hall starting 7pm on Monday 25th March, to which all are welcome.

Twinning group faces crunch decision THE future of Blandford's twinning arrangement with the German town of Preetz is in doubt.

An extraordinary general meeting was held on 15th February to consider the future of the Blandford/Preetz Friendly Society whose numbers have dwindled over the years and whose officers have now reached an age at which they want to retire.

The society has for many years been involved in Blandford's twinning with Preetz and in organising exchange visits between the two towns.

Chairman Peter Warrington,

together with the secretary, treasurer and two members, have announced their intention to stand down at the AGM on 15th March. At the same meeting, a decision on the group's future will be announced. The choice is to wind it up and dispose of its funds or form a new committee and constitution.

The AGM will be in the Community Room, Church Lane, Blandford, at 7.30pm.

Any members who were unable to attend the EGM can make their thoughts known by writing to the secretary, Mrs Joan Barnes, St Helier, 163a, Salisbury Road, Blandford, DT11 7SW by 7th March.

Follow us on Twitter @forumfocus

12

March 2013

Planning round-up

Olympic bikes get recycled SPECTRUM Property Care has donated the two bikes used to get around Weymouth during the 2012 Olympics to the Dorset Scouts for use on their county campsite at Buddens, Wareham.

The bikes were originally purchased to enable operatives to reach properties that fell within the roadblocks active during the Olympics when the usual method of transport, vans, would not have been practical.

They worked well, but became redundant after the games, and donating them to the Dorset Scouts meant that they could give real benefit to others.

Neil Patterson, contract manager at Spectrum Property Care said: "We are happy to donate the bikes to a cause where they will be used to their full potential."

The handover took place at the county campsite, a venue covering 95 acres and attracting Scouts from all over the county and UK. Mike Parkes, County

Contract Manager Neil Patterson and Supervisor Sophie Beach with Mike Parkes, County Commissioner for Dorset Scouts (pictured centre).

Commissioner and leader of 7,500 Dorset Scouts, said: "The bikes will be put to good use by

the service crew of around 100 people to get around the site and look after campers."

Turbine gets the green light PERMISSION has now been granted to the Crown Estate for an Archimedes screw powered turbine for the generation of renewable electricity on the banks of the river Stour at Deer Park weir opposite Bryanston.

NEW plans have been submitted for a single dwelling in the garden of Walnut Tree Cottage in Milldown Road for Mrs Miller following rejection of an earlier application.

Mr N Dore has applied to carry out work on internal and external staircases and install fire doors at 6a Salisbury Street, and Mr G Fisher wants to build a single garage/workshop at 114 Salisbury Road, Blandford.

North Dorset District Council is also considering an application

by Mr Williams for 28 photovoltaic panels to a rear elevation of Abbey View in Valley Road, Tarrant Keyneston, and Mr M Dore has applied to extend West Wycke Cottage in Valley Road, Tarrant Launceston.

Holland Farms (Blandford) Ltd have applied for a conservatory at the side of The Cottage, Manor Dairy Farm, Tarrant Keyneston.

Retrospective permission is sought by Mr D Upton for the extension of a site at Abbey Croft Farm, Tarrant Rushton, for the processing of cut tree wood.

13

March 2013

Hands up for the Hamdinger A NUMBER of volunteers and performers have already come forward for the May Day Hamdinger to be held on the Marsh and Ham on Bank Holiday Monday 6th May, but there is still time for more to register their interest.

The programme so far includes three bands, two choirs, three groups of entertainers and one sports club, as well as traditional crafts and fairground attractions, together with ferret and invitation terrier dog racing, Maypole dancing, salsa, mummers and, of course, a repeat of the grand flotilla on the leat of model boats made from recycled materials.

The free admission event is planned as a successor to last year's Blandford Jubilee party, and as a celebration this year of May Day. A number of groups have come forward to help with traditional games and races, a cake stall and marshalling, but more will be welcome to share the duties at the event, which will run between noon and 5.30pm.

To take part or help in any way, call 01258 480756.

Family history appeal for help A WOMAN tracing her family history has appealed for information about the house in Blandford in which she has discovered that many of her ancestors lived.

Sara Lucas, a descendant of Edmund Charles Lucas and Edith Mabel Lucas, who were both buried in Blandford Cemetery during the last century, is keen to know about Iona Villa in Fairfield Road.

If you can help, please get in touch with Forum Focus on 01258 459346 or by email to editor@forumfocus.co.uk.

Hanover’s excellence

Churchill's wife

Rohan McCullough, who will be appearing as 'My Darling Clemmie', the wife of Winston Churchill, in the one-woman show written by Hugh Whitmore at the Portman Hall in Shillingstone on Friday 8th March and at Milborne St Andrew village hall on Saturday 9th March.

Car stolen in raid at motor repair firm A BREAK-IN at Blandford motor repair business MVS during the second weekend of February was discovered when partner Dan Hurst went to the unit on Sunrise Business Park to do some Sunday afternoon work.

He discovered that thieves had entered from the rear of the premises and taken tools, laptops and a charity collection for Julia's House which the company had made over the Christmas period.

They had also taken the company's Vauxhall Corsa courtesy car.

Dan said: "We put out a message on Facebook that we'd had the break-in and the car had been taken, and somebody got in touch with us to say it had been left in Shottesford Avenue on the Persimmon estate a few hundred yards away. Security cameras at Spectrum Signpost recorded it passing in the early hours of Sunday morning."

He said the business had lost diagnostic equipment and SnapOn tools worth over £5,000.

School’s gas tanks plan MILTON Abbey School has applied to install four gas tanks on a concrete base, relocating them from inside the school's historic courtyard.

Extensions are planned above the garage and to the side at Hartwell House in Hartfoot Lane, Ansty, by Mr S Curtis.

A former chapel at the Chapter House at 7 Chapel Street, Milborne St Andrew could be converted into holiday accommodation for Mrs T Holmes-Thompson.

North Dorset District Council is also considering an application for two detached dwellings north of Springfields in Milton Road, Milborne St Andrew for Elderberry Construction Ltd.

Dorset Police said there had been a forced entry to a secure rear door of the workshop. An untidy search was made inside and tools stolen. The stolen Corsa was found abandoned a short distance away.

They said the crime was believed to have taken place some time between 3pm on Saturday 9th February and 1pm the following day.

They appealed for any witnesses or people with information to contact them on 101, quoting log number 10:254, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

HANOVER Housing Association, which manages Hanover Court and Wilverley Gardens in Blandford and Hanover Close in Sturminster Newton, has retained its prestigious Customer Service Excellence (CSE) accreditation.

The association, which nationally manages 19,000 properties in 600 locations, was commended for its insight and understanding of its customers’ needs and preferences, as well as its corporate commitment to putting customers at the heart of service.

Kevan Forde, head of service improvement for Hanover, said: "This is strong independent evidence of our delivering great customer service.”

Centre search continues THE DT11 Partnership are continuing their search for a community resource centre in Blandford town centre after the failure of their bid for the former Traills solicitors premises in Greyhound House.

Chairman Scott Norman told the February meeting they were continuing to talk with landlords in the attempt to find a suitable location.

He also reported that the Fording Point group were hoping to submit an application for outline planning permission for an arts centre in the town within the next two or three months.

14

FOCUS letters

I’m no fan of the blues I AM writing in response to the article in the Forum Focus (February) regarding Christmas lights in Blandford. I would much prefer to see the traditional colours of red, green or white; I do not like the bright blue ones at all.

I would like to say a big thankyou to the organisers and performers who were involved with putting on the free entertainment in the Corn Exchange on 24th January. It was very much enjoyed, and good to see it so well attended.

May I add how nice it is to have a magazine with local news again.

Helen Rawles, by email Edior's note: Any other readers who have an opinion on the colours of the Christmas lights in the town are invited to send their views to the Blandford Yuletide Festival Team. Email them at byf@bfpc.org.uk or via editor@forumfocus.co.uk.

March 2013

Prisoners Asda store and its impact make music on the town centre - a in memory call to join campaign of David THE growing success of Forum Focus is great news for the people of Blandford. Nicci Brown's comprehensive article on the impact of a second outof-town supermarket on the town centre didn't mention what needs to be done to get more people to shop in the town.

The parking issue is central to the success of the rejuvenation of Blandford's town centre. Revenue from car parks is essential to NDDC to deliver the services we all enjoy.

The question is: 'How do we have affordable parking and maintain services?'.

The answer seems to be to develop a BID (Business Improvements District), a government scheme involving the Town Council, Chamber of Trade, community partnership and District Council working together.

It will require effort and co-operation from us all, and it's important that the town has an influential Chamber of Trade, so I hope traders in the town will want to come forward and show their support for a campaign group with the aim of achieving a level playing field for parking in Blandford.

If you want to make a difference and can help with the campaign, get in touch with me at nic4blandford@gmail.com.

Nic Nicol, by email FORUM FOCUS Seen something you’d like to comment on or share with other readers? Anxious to give a local topic an airing?

Email your letter, which must be as brief as possible, to: editor@forumfocus.co.uk or call 01258 459346.

Customers keep me satisfied YOU all know me as Gerry the shoe repairer and keycutter in Blandford town centre, where I have been trading for 35 years.

When the local supermarket applied to be a superstore they must have held my business in such high esteem, because the only alteration I can see is a key cutting and shop repair bar.

They then looked at all my prices and decided I was too cheap and added 20 per cent to theirs.

We are now nine months on from what was a worrying time, but thanks to my loyal customers, and some new ones, we have gone from strength to strength because nobody seems to have deserted me.

I would also like to thank my landlords Nick and Sue Conyers who charge a realistic rent for these troubled times.

Good luck, Tesco. Let's see how you get on when Asda arrives.

Gerry Bryant, ASL Services, West Street, Blandford.

A load of rubbish!

BESIDE the road that leads down from Tesco to the car park for the town and the water meadows, just by the entrance to Stour Park, an unbelievable amount of rubbish is strewn about in the grass. It is really unsightly.

It puzzles me why some of the businesses nearby don’t do something to smarten up their immediate surroundings.

S.J. Hale, by email

LOCAL parents Sacha and Toby Langton-Gilks have launched a community charity single, 'Song for DD' in memory of their 16year-old son David (DD), who died last August after five years of treatment for a brain tumour.

The couple, who live at Fontmell Magna, are keen for more people to be aware that cancerous brain tumours, of which medulloblastoma is the commonest in children, are the biggest killer of our young in terms of illness and a child has the same chance of developing one as of contracting meningitis.

Mrs. Langton-Gilks has become the first local champion for HeadSmart, the brain tumour charity's campaign for earlier diagnosis of children's brain tumours.

The song was composed and written by inmates at HMP Guys Marsh, Shaftesbury, where Mr Langton-Gilks teaches.

They saw David and his parents interviewed on BBC TV last June and wanted to help their teacher.

The family say they are incredibly grateful for the prisoners' efforts and to the prison authorities for allowing it to happen.

The song, which has no record company behind it, costs £1.29 to download from Amazon, Spotify and iTunes and all proceeds are going to HeadSmart and CLIC Sargent, which support children with cancer and their families.

For more information, see www.headsmart.org.uk or www.clicsargent.org.uk.

BLANDFORD Town Council has agreed to award certificates of appreciation to members of the community who make a considerable contribution and commitment to the community.

Members were told that the scheme should not be seen as a poor alternative to being offered the status of Freeman of the town, an honour rarely bestowed, but to acknowledge those who gave a great deal over a number of years.

Nominations will be considered at the April meeting.

15

March 2013

Potato day visitors dig deep HUNDREDS of visitors filled Pimperne village hall when the Blandford Museum Victorian Garden Club hosted their Potato Day in association with Pennard Plants on Sunday 27th January.

In addition to a huge range of seed potatoes, available by the single tuber, heritage seeds,onion sets, shallots, garlic and fruit trees were on sale to keen gardeners, for whom there was also plenty of expert advice.

There were craft, produce and book stalls, featuring the garden club and museum, and a display by the museum garden beekeeper Hunny Bears.

There was also potato printing for children and adults, and a surprisingly challenging tree identification quiz hosted by Mark Hinsley, with refreshments including soup and cakes served with coffees and teas.

The event, which raised around ÂŁ600 for the museum and garden club, was officially opened by the Mayor of Blandford, Sara Loch.

Nessa Hickish, Blandford Museum Victorian Garden Club chairman, head gardener Heather Hinsley, secretary and acting treasurer Elaine Lofthouse with Sara Loch, Mayor of Blandford.

Oliver (10) and Rosie (6) Speight, with Sara Loch, Mayor of Blandford, show off their potato prints.

Above: Potatoes of all shapes and sizes on offer. Below: 11-year-olds Lizzy Ellis and Rebecca Plummer do the tree/shrub identification quiz with Mark Hinsley of the Blandford Museum Victorian Garden Club.

Bus shelter rethink THE accidental demolition of the bus shelter in West Street, Blandford, by a Damory bus has prompted a rethink on where its replacement should be sited.

Dorset County Council's transport services officer John Cumming has been consulting with users and drivers on whether the shelter should be moved further towards the Crown Hotel to avoid further incidents caused by the angle at which the buses have to pull in, particularly when cars are parked close to the bus stop markings.

He said the shelter had been struck on a number of occasions, and its replacement also offered the opportunity to bring in the interactive bus timetable information available in other towns, as well as to make the stop more disabled friendly.

Damory's insurance will pay for the replacement of the shelter, but funding will need to be found to provide the improved facilities.

More helpers needed BLANDFORD Information Centre is in need of more volunteers to help provide information to residents and visitors on local events, attractions and accommodation providers.

The centre has been operating with growing success for over four years with a small team of enthusiastic and skilled people who also sell tickets to local events and a selection of local goods and produce.

They are appealing for others to join them by giving half a day a week to ensure the centre can remain open, and volunteer trustees are also required to support the administration of the centre. Volunteers receive on-site training and the benefit of the Visit Britain Tourism Pass allowing them free access to many tourism establishments nationally.

To help, contact chairman Rod Williams at blandfordtic@btconnect.com.

They also want to extend their community commitment to surrounding villages by offering opportunities to advertise, display and market the many special activities in their locality free of charge, and invite anyone interested to contact them on 01258 454770.

16

March 2013

Transport group are in need of help

A FREE Country & Bluegrass music event held in the Corn Exchange on 24th January was a great success and a very enjoyable morning for around 150 people who attended.

The Dorset-based band included musicians Dave Giles, Richard Frith, and soloist Linda Lemon.

Teas, coffees and home-made cakes were sold and donations, totalling nearly ÂŁ400, were given to the Mayor's Charities.

The Town Council would like to thank everyone who attended and supported the event, one of a series organised to promote the use of the building for a variety of entertainments.

Bus2Go, a community transport group of enthusiastic volunteers which runs outings and shopping trips for people in more isolated areas, are seeking a representative from Blandford to assist in planning and liaise with other groups within the DT11 area.

For further details please contact Ron Ward on 01258 839234 or Margo on 01258 837749.

The Milborne St Andrew group was established a year ago with funding from Milborne St Andrew and Winterborne Stickland parish councils, and support from Dorset POPP and Spectrum Signpost.

Trips organised this month include one on Wednesday 13th March to the Parlour and Farm Shop at Pamphill, Wimborne, and one on Wednesday 27th March to Bridport town centre and its Morrisons store.

Tickets cost ÂŁ6.50, and can be booked by calling the above numbers or emailing bus2go@btinternet.com

17

March 2013

Guitarists in village hall concert THE Dorset Guitar Society plays a varied programme from classical to jazz, with solos, duets and full guitar orchestra conducted by Grant Bocking, former director of music at QE School in Wimborne.

Principal performers include Bournemouth musician John Edwards, guitar maker Chris Gillson, Paul Thomas and James O'Neil.

The society, formerly known as the Dorset Guitar & Lute Circle, was formed in 1984 by a number of Dorset guitarists to promote the music of their instrument via solo and ensemble performances, master classes, workshops and concerts given by the guitar society and visiting artists.

In 1994 they formed their own guitar orchestra, which will be appearing at the Durweston Spring Concert on Sunday 17th March at 3pm in Durweston village hall.

Camera club honours even BLANDFORD Camera Club welcomed Bournemouth Electric CC for a SAPA League match judged

by Andrew Wilson in competitions for prints and DPIs. Each club entered 12 photographs. The first competition was won by the home side 85-77, with the visitors emerging victorious by 84.5 to 83 in the second.

The club's fifth Points Cups competitions of the season were judged by Rob Barron. Of the 35 DPI entries he awarded three tens, two to Colin Cross and one to Marilyn Peddle, with Jean Bartlett, Pat Catley and Stephanie Selwyn each scoring 9.5.

Five of the 31 prints received highest scores for Norman Carey, Colin Cross and Marilyn Peddle with tens in colour prints and Malcolm Bowditch with two with monochrome images. Norman Carey, John Ellis and Paul Hunter all received 9.5.

A week earlier, Leo Rich was guest speaker at the club evening with an illustrated talk 'The idle Rich slides into digital'. describing the transition from slides, produced using film technology, via digitised analogue images to projected images created directly from digital files.

For more information on the club, contact Alf Tompkins on 01258 454450 or visit bfcclub.co.uk.

Five-year-olds Jemma Carson and Rosie Briggs with some of the cakes at the Shroton Cake Fest in the village hall.

Cakes raise cash for village hall MORE than 30 cakes went on display at the annual Shroton Cake Fest on 9th February, when four winners were chosen - Emma RaeSmith and Trevor Knight in the adult section, Orlando Bridgeman in the children's, and the Norman family in the family section.

There was also a cupcake decoration competition open to entrants aged between 4 and 65 and organised by Kez Margrie and Ali Jeffery.

Chris Pearson, who declined to reveal his clearly adult age, was the proud winner of the over-15s class with a design representing the

sinking of the Titanic.

Children's class winners were Sorrell, Abi and Trish in the 10-15 age group, and Holly, Eleanor and James in the under-10s.

"The Cake Fest is held annually, usually in February because it is so grey and miserable and wet," said Mr Pearson. "All the cakes are donated for sale and the proceeds go to the maintenance of the village hall, where we are building an outside patio for the summer, and need to replace parts of the floor which are rotten, and deal with damp."

18

March 2013

FOCUS on youth

Jasmine shines the brightest among a host of young stars

Staff from the Blandford School who will be taking part in the Three Peaks Challenge take a rest during a training walk on Snowdon. Pictured (from left to right, back row): Caroline Kelly, Lucy Bowerman-Ellis, Nicola Fulker, support team member Hanni Mead and Andrew Mead; front row: Jean-Paul Duboc, Becky Mutimer and Rachel Powell.

Peak practice A BID to complete the three peaks challenge within 24 hours will be made by seven intrepid members of staff from The Blandford School at the end of May. The scaling of Ben Nevis, in Scotland, Scafell Pike, in the Lake District and Snowdon, in Wales will be done with the help of three drivers whose job will be to make sure they reach each stage in good time.

Experienced walker Lucy Bowerman-Ellis said: "This is a fantastic challenge for us. We have training walks planned over the next four months including a weekend when we will attempt Scafell Pike and Snowdon."

The team are raising money for the Friends of Blandford School, a charity that helps students of the school with equipment, social activities and extra-curricular activities.

The aim of the three peaks challenge is to provide more opportunities in the performing and creative arts by funding workshops with dance or theatre companies, artists, musicians and experts in industry and helping with school productions and performances To sponsor the team effort visit www.justgiving.com/pcathreepeaks.

A BLANDFORD St Mary Primary Primary School, who performed School pupil was chosen as the to the theme from 'Mission very talented winner of a talent Impossible'. The judges praised show featuring 14 acts from the technical skills of the gymseven schools across the nasts and thought the choreograBlandford area. phy was superb, saying: "We felt A cheeky dance, 'We no speak Americano' by Jasmine Upward, was considered by the judges to display "fantastic stage presence".

"She used the stage well, and engaged her audience. It was top class," they said.

The show is hosted annually by The Blandford School as part of the transition programme helping the younger children transfer smoothly up to the senior school.

The acts demonstrated talent across a range of disciplines including singing, playing musical instruments, dance and comedy, and were The judges (from left) Brian Winkle, Sally Wilson, judged by a panel consisting of Graham Haigh, Graham Haigh with talent show winner Jasmine Upward (front right) and third-placed Emma Brian Winkle and The Wright.

Blandford School headteacher Sally Wilson. as though we were watching a She thanked the children for all Bond movie. They created a the time and effort taken with great atmosphere that was very their performances, saying: "We appropriate to the music." have had a very enjoyable afterIn third place was Emma Wright noon watching all of these amazfrom Blandford St Mary Primary ing acts."

School, who sang a complex Performers were supported by song and played guitar with confitheir parents and fellow pupils in dence and composure, and talent the audience, and while the in both voice and rhythm. judges deliberated the spectators Freya Inglis from Spetisbury were treated to performances Primary School was highly comfrom students at The Blandford mended for her excellent stage School. presence, great costume and her Runners-up were the gymnasts lovely voice - definitely a talent and dancers from Pimperne for the future.

Festival taking shape THE sixth biennial Spetisbury Festival is due to take place from 31st May to 15th June and will be in support of three local charities: the Blandford Opportunities Group, Blandford Foodbank and Homestart.

The event is planned as fun for all the family, a mix of artistic talent, competitions, gardens exhibits, poetry, plays, films, talks, quizzes, radio plays and live music, culminating in the country day and market on the final Saturday.

Further details from www.spetisbury.org.uk for up-to-date information.

19

March 2013

FOCUS on youth

A school making good progress LEAGUE tables for secondary schools published by the Department for Education show that The Blandford School is improving against key national indicators.

The performance tables give information on the achievements of pupils in primary, secondary and 16-18 provision in schools and colleges, and show how they compare with other schools in the local authority area and in England as a whole.

The number of students at The Blandford School achieving a minimum of five good GCSEs, A*-C including mathematics and English, has increased by 6% to 54% from last year. Maths was singled out in the school's last Ofsted inspection as one of its highest performing subjects.

The school has also improved by 11.3 points, moving up seven places in comparison to other Dorset schools, in the valueadded measure, which shows how well students are helped to progress from the point at which they entered.

Absence records are also compared and The Blandford School rates well against the national average.

Sally Wilson, headteacher, said: "We are very pleased with our performance. The credit goes to our staff and students who have worked hard to achieve this. We will continue to improve and support students to reach their full potential."

President of Blandford Rotary, Nic Nicol, with the winners and runners-up from the Young Musician of the Year competition, including George Hewett (back row, left), winner of the main prize.

George tops the talent chart SIXTH form student George Hewett was selected as Blandford Rotary's annual Young Musician of the Year in the sixth year of the competition, which attracted a record 34 entries.

George, a student at Clayesmore School, where the prestige event was staged, performed superbly in the three classes he entered: piano, saxophone and vocal.

The appreciative audience was especially moved by his stunning rendition of 'Some Enchanted Evening' from the musical 'South Pacific'.

He was presented with the John Edwards Cup and a cash prize, and qualified for the Rotary District Final being held in Winchester on Sunday 3rd March.

Winner of the Junior Young Musician Award, the Jim

Students go to the polls STUDENTS at The Blandford School took part in a county-wide election to vote for young people to represent them in the UK Youth Parliament.

The ballot, with confidential booths and voting slips collected in a secure box, followed the students watching a DVD of the candidates from across Dorset and learning about their manifestos.

Steve Harrow, teacher, said: "The youth parliament is a great way for young people to learn about voting and the democratic process.�

Although no-one from The Blandford School stood as a candidate, the elected member will represent views across their constituency. The school, which last year had the highest turnout of voters in Dorset, participated as part of their normal classes.

MYPs organise events and projects, run campaigns and influence decision makers on the issues which matter most to young people.

Atkins Cup and a cash prize was 12-year-old Charlotte Horner from Gillingham School, runner-up three years ago, who entranced the three adjudicators with performances on the piano, cello and as a vocalist.

Winner of the Senior Vocalist Award, the David Rose Cup and a cash prize was Lauren Morgan with a highly moving performance of 'I Don't Know How to Love Him' from 'Jesus Christ Superstar'.

Adjudicator Peter Lange, a professional pianist, told the audience that the three members of the panel were overwhelmed by the quality of musicianship they had heard during the event.

"Forget TV shows like 'X-Factor'," he said. "What you have heard this afternoon was Real Talent!"

20

March 2013

FOCUS on community

Artsreach in action

ANGEL Heart Theatre were welcome visitors to North Dorset in February with their tale of Mazymeg and the Honey Bees, steeped in Devon folklore and presented with songs, music and puppetry at village halls in Durweston, Hazelbury Bryan and Sturminster Marshall.

Arstreach's spring programme of events includes Kepow Theatre in the Seven Ages of Man (pictured above) at Durweston on Saturday 2nd March, a one-woman show featuring Rohan McCullough in 'My Darling Clemmie' at Shillingstone on Friday 8th March and at Milborne St Andrew on Saturday 9th March, and acoustic trio Three Cane Whale at Ibberton on Saturday 9th March.

Theatre company Shifting Sands present 'Boxed In' at Child Okeford on Saturday 16th March.

Friends in storage space plea STORAGE space is desperately needed by a Blandford-based charity which every year raises thousands of pounds for the local community hospital.

The Friends of Blandford Hospital run two charity shops and stage a series of fundraising events throughout the year. Storage is needed for clothing, items for their autumn fair, and as a store/working space for their annual auction.

They are seeking one or perhaps a number of smaller units and appealing to anyone with a dry, secure unit, a garage or unused outbuilding that they are able to offer at minimal cost.

The charity's fundraiser Emma Sisson said: "Maximising monies raised is always a priority as with any charity and we try to keep costs as low as possible. Please think about the possibility of helping out a local charity and in turn making a real difference to the fundraising that supports the community hospital and local health related projects.

If you can help, call her at the Friends' Office at the hospital on 01258 450095.

The Friends next fundraiser is their Easter bingo in the hospital dining room on Thursday 21st March.

Doors will open at 6.45pm for eyes down at 7.30pm.

Elderly can get help with winter fuel bills HELP is available for local residents aged over 65 who are struggling to pay their fuel bills this winter.

A variety of cold weatherrelated support and services for the elderly are being funded as a result of the Dorset Community Foundation's registered charity Surviving Winter Appeal.

Fuel poverty and social isolation among the elderly are the two primary reasons why the deaths of more than 500 people in Dorset last winter were cold weather-related

More free legal help with wills FOLLOWING the success of the last wills and power of attorney surgery, Age Concern have booked Jerome Dodge from solicitors Blanchards Bailey to do another on Tuesday 5th March at the office. Anyone who would like to book a free 15-minute appointment should contact the office on 01258 458250 or at 4 Nightingale Court, Blandford, DT11 7ED.

and preventable.

An appeal this year has raised just over ÂŁ14,000, much less than last year, demonstrating that times are tough for many, but DCF is working to ensure donations are quickly distributed to groups and organisations working with older people in need of help.

It is working with Citizens Advice Bureaux to give out grants towards paying fuel bills and ensure that only eligible people receive grant payments.

Support includes not only grants to assist with bills and

heating repairs, but also funding for lunch clubs, befriending schemes, help with transport, and emergency radiators for Dorset Fire and Rescue to deliver to homes without heating to which they are called.

Some 1,500 tubs of de-icing salt for use on domestic paths have been supplied at cost by the company for distribution through local community groups.

To make a donation, call 01202 282255 or make an online secure donation at www.dorsetcommunityfoundation.org.

Treasure to be found A CAR treasure hunt is being staged on Easter Bank Holiday Monday, 1st April, in support of the Disability Action Group (North Dorset).

Teams will be asked to find the answer to clues along the prenotified route. Drivers will depart from the Langton Road car park, and the event will end with refreshments at the destination where there will be a prizegiving and raffle for the charity.

Registrations costing ÂŁ3 per car will be taken on the day, but entries are being take at the DAG unit at 5/6 Nightingale Court, and at Colin's Community Club in Damory Street, Blandford.

Centre seeking friends A NEW Friends group is being formed for the Stour View Day Centre in Sturminster Newton run by Dorset County Council to provide a 'person-centred' care and respite support centre for older and disabled people.

Anyone who would like to give some time to help planning and raising funds for community support is asked to contact manager Stephen Hopcoft at the centre in Bath Road, Sturminster Newton, or call 01258 473152.

21

March 2013

New sights at fashion museum BLANDFORD'S Fashion Museum is now open to the public with its new exhibitions, 'A Passion for Pattern' and 'Party Time'.

The first features the development of the use of pattern in fabrics over the years, from the 1790s to the 1980s, and highlight some fascinating similarities and differences between them in both dresses and accessories.

Exhibits include, in the 'Freeform' section, an early Victorian 1830s day dress donated by Mrs A Dreaper of Shaftesbury, in the 'Stripes' section a beautiful frock from Mrs Wareham of Stalbridge, and in the 'Spots' section a dress which once belonged to a former headmistress of Shillingstone Primary School.

In 'PartyTime', the focus is turned on an Edwardian garden party where a lady in a silk blouse with lace and Dorset-style buttons sips tea in an arbour, a children's party in the 1930s at which girls in their party frocks and boys in their suits wait for a slice of birthday cake, and a cocktail party in the 1950s, featuring the suit worn by Tim Palmer as High Sheriff in a

Above left: A 1930s day dress donated to the Blandford Fashion Museum by a woman from Stalbridge. Above right: A dress which once belonged to a former headmistress of Shillingstone Primary School. Below: Children in the 1930s dressed for a birthday party with, behind them, guests at a 1950s cocktail party.

style dating back to the 19th century.

The museum is now open on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays between 10.30am and 4pm, and its tearoom is open between 10am and 4pm on the same days. From Easter to September closing time is 5pm.

Oxfam bookshop’s role in Syrian refugee relief AN emergency appeal by the Blandford Oxfam bookshop is supporting the escalating refugee crisis in Syria.

The money raised by the charity locally and nationally goes towards the Oxfam effort to help up to 120,000 people who have fled the fighting in Syria. Harsh winter weather conditions face those staying in makeshift, unheated buildings and self-built tents.

Oxfam and its local partners have been distributing blankets and mattresses, heaters and gas oil to help the new arrivals stay warm. All the goods Oxfam is distributing are purchased either from within or very close to the refugee camps they are working in. This ensures money goes back into the local economy to support small traders.

Anyone wanting to donate to Oxfam's Syria appeal can do so in the Oxfam shop in Salisbury Street or by calling 0300 200 1999 or go online at www.oxfam.org.uk.

A blanket to keep a person warm at night costs £3, while £10 can buy a mattress to protect someone from the freezing floor, and £25 can buy enough blankets for two families, keeping children warm at night. * The local Oxfam group hosts its annual Fairtrade Coffee Morning at the Blandford Parish Centre on Saturday 2nd March between 10.30am and 12.30pm.

Village planning applications PLANS have been submitted to North Dorset District Council for the conversion of a bungalow at Little Ham in Shaftesbury Road, Child Okeford into a two-storey dwelling for Mr M Stirling.

A two-storey rear extension is also planned at 30 Gravel Lane, Charlton Marshall, by Mrs R Easton.

An early Valentine for Friendship members THE Friendship Club, a series of social events organised by People First Dorset which helps people with learning disabilities support each other, held its Valentine's Day party at Colin's Community Club in Blandford a couple of days early on Tuesday 12th February.

Co-ordinator Suzanne MacLeod said: "It is one of the best attended events we have ever had."

It gave members, who were invited to wear something red to celebrate, a chance to meet new friends and enjoy the company of old ones in their local community, and followed a pub night at the Crown Hotel in January.

The next event is for dinner at Prezzo in Blandford on Thursday 14th March. Members are also invited to attend other events around the county, including monthly bowling sessions in Poole and events in Dorchester, Weymouth, Bridport, Shaftesbury, Gillingham, Sherborne and East Dorset.

For more information, call Suzanne on 07739 487561 or see www.peoplefirstdorset.org.uk

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March 2013

FOCUS on groups

U3A cash help for young successors

Treads trustee Mark Williams, U3A chairman Christine Iredale and Archbishop Wake head teacher Jo Hicks at the cheque presentation in Durweston village hall, where money raised by U3A in the group's tenth anniversary year was shared between the two youth organisations.

More singers needed MORE singers, especially men, are needed by a community choir meeting weekly in Blandford which offers its services free of charge to old people's homes and recently gave a performance at The Grange in Milldown Road.

Leader Chrissy Foster said: "We are a lovely group for all ages, and we work hard at our songs and harmonies, singing old time to modern at our sessions in the Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion on Mondays between 4 and 6pm.

"All the places I have contacted say they don't have funding for entertainment for the people in their homes this year, which is very sad, so we are very pleased to go along and cheer them up.

"But we need more members to grow and perform at all the homes in the future, hold concerts and raise money for local charities. Anyone who is not in a choir already and loves to sing is welcome."

For details, call her on 07840 976584.

Heath blaze update A TALK entitled 'sand lizards after the fire' will provide a detailed update on what has happened to the inhabitants of Dorset's heathland since the devastating fire which last June left almost a third of a very special habitat scorched and blackened.

Volunteers came in their hundreds from as far afield as Basingstoke, Bristol and Gloucestershire to help in the rescue of surviving lizards, snakes, newts and toads which were left vulnerable to predators.

The illustrated talk will be given by Nigel Brooks, Dorset Wildlife Trust Warden at Upton Heath, on Wednesday 20th March at 7.30pm in Fontmell Magna village hall to the North Dorset Group of the Dorset Wildlife Trust. It will describe how the heath and its reptiles, including the rare sand lizard confined to small areas in Dorset, Hampshire and south Lancashire, are faring eight months on.

Talks are open to non-members and entry costs £2 (including tea or coffee and biscuits), with no charge for children.

FUNDS raised by the Blandford U3A (University of the Third Age) during their 10th anniversary year were presented at the group's open meeting at Durweston village hall to representatives of two youth organisations, Treads advice centre and Archbishop Wake Primary School.

Chairman Christine Iredale, who will be standing down from the office at the AGM in March, said the group, which focuses on organising activities for the more mature members of the community, wanted to give something back to the younger generation following in their footsteps.

Archbishop Wake head teacher Jo Hicks said their £300 would go towards the creation of an outdoor performance area at the school in Black Lane, Blandford.

Mark Williams, trustee of Treads,

said their £300 would support the group which had extended services to young people at their base next to the Blandford Museum in Bere's Yard by inviting the Citizens Advice Bureau, Shelter, Community Mental Health Team and Job Club to share their premises.

The open meeting heard a talk

by Richard Grundy about Tristan da Cunha, and heard that the next open meeting on Friday 22nd March would be a talk on the Cold War, 'Life with the KGB', by a former naval attaché to the diplomatic service.

New study groups being formed

by U3A include one on genealogy and one on Ancient Rome, starting in April.

For more information, go to www.blandfordu3a.co.uk or membership secretary Gillian Jackson on 01258 453376.

Station making progress THE project to renovate the site and restore the 1901 station building on the up platform of the old Spetisbury railway station is progressing well and both platforms are now fully visible.

The site is accessed by walking or cycling along the Trailway, or via the South Farm bridleway from Spetisbury.

Foundations of both the 1901 station and the earlier 1860

building have now been uncovered, and plans are being prepared for submission to site a temporary community café /visitor centre on the foundations of the 1860 station building overlooking the Stour Valley.

To get involved or for more information, contact the project manager Dean Cockwell on deancockwell@ntlworld.com.

Work parties are held on alternate Sundays.

A musical invitation EVER thought of learning to play a musical instrument or find yourself with time to start playing one again?

Dorset Rural Music School is holding an open day on Saturday 16th March between 10am and 2pm to give people the opportunity of taking a look round, seeing the instruments on offer, and perhaps booking a

free lesson with the educational charity.

With a large room for group gatherings and individual studios for one-to-one lessons, it is based in The Close, Blandford, opposite the Methodist Church.

Refreshments will be available, and further information can be obtained by calling 01258 452511.

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March 2013

Sahara on marathon agenda for Doddlers RUNNERS from the Dorset Doddlers club will be taking on marathons of various lengths, in varied locations and on differing terrains this spring.

First on the calendar is the Jurassic Coastal Challenge, nearly 80 miles over three days from 22nd to 24th March, followed by the Paris Marathon on 7th April, and the six-day 150-mile Marathon des Sables in the Moroccan Sahara desert between 5th and 15th April.

Closer to home on 13th April is the South Downs Way 50, on 14th April the Brighton Marathon, and on 21st April the London Marathon.

Then, organised by the Gillingham Trotters, is the North Dorset Village Marathon on 5th

May, before members head north for the Edinburgh Marathon on 26th May, and back on 8th June for the South Downs Marathon.

Anyone with a marathon place but training alone is invited to go along and train with the Doddlers.

They meet at Blandford Leisure Centre at 6.45pm on Tuesday evenings in the winter and Sturminster Newton Leisure Centre at 7pm on Thursday evenings.

For further information on the Doddlers please see the website www.dorsetdoddlers.org, or simply turn up at a training session.

FOCUS on sport

Nobby Stiles at Rotary dinner

Junior Western Counties champion Ben Benham, pictured with Blandford Boxing Club head coach Les Benham, left, and assistant coach Nigel Pudwell.

Ben powers to the title

QUIZ CHAMPS: Ashley Wood Golf Club recently held one of their regular quiz nights, which was attended by more than 50 members and guests.

They enjoyed an evening of serious and light-hearted questions set by regular quizmaster Steve Sanger, as well as a buffet supper.

The winning team, pictured with club captain Mike Lane, were 'Bobless" and comprised Chas and Pauline Anderson and Gill Philip - Bob was otherwise engaged.

A BLANDFORD teenager has won the title of Junior Western Counties Champion in a schoolboys' competition final in Bristol.

Ben Benham, aged 13, of Blandford Boxing Club, proved too strong for his opponent, Bradley Dunton of King Alfred's, forcing the referee to stop the contest in the third round.

Ben will be in action again at the Blandford Boxing Show to be staged at The Blandford School on Saturday 2nd March.

Doors will open at 7pm for the tournament featuring local boxers and those from visiting clubs. Information on ticket prices is available by calling 07788 907343.

FORMER Manchester United footballer Nobby Stiles, a member of England's 1966 World Cup-winning team, will be guest speaker at a charity dinner being hosted by the Blandford Stour Rotary Club in the Sealy Suite of the Crown Hotel on Friday 22nd March.

He will be joined by his son, comedian John Stiles, who was also a professional footballer with Leeds United for five years, in providing entertainment for guests enjoying a three-course dinner.

Tickets are available by contacting David Scott or Sharon John on 01258 488879. All proceeds of the event will go to local and Rotary charities.

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24

March 2013

No to homes in garden Go-ahead for depot plan A PROPOSAL to build on a garden site in Milborne St Andrew has been rejected by North Dorset planners on the grounds that the two detached four-bedroomed properties adjacent to Bramble Cottage in Chapel Street would be too big and out of keeping with the conservation area.

The application by Mr S. Rawlings was also said to impact on the amenity of neighbouring residents. It had been deferred from the previous meeting of the development management committee for further consideration of how excess water in the area, which is subject to flooding, would be disposed of.

A DEVELOPMENT of three three-bedroomed homes on a former tyre depot site in Damory Court Street, Blandford, has been approved by North Dorset District Council despite continued objections from town and local district councillors.

The application by B & D Builders followed rejection, against officer recommendation, of an earlier application for four which has now gone to appeal.

The new scheme was considered an improvement by members of the development management committee since it allowed for more amenity space for the single detached and two semi-detached properties.

Forum Focus - forthcoming meetings & events Saturday 2nd March: Oxfam Fairtrade coffee morning, Parish Centre, Blandford, 10.30am to 12.30pm Saturday 2nd March: Open Day, Knighton House School, Durweston, from 10.45am: all enquiries to admissions@knightonhouse.co.uk Saturday 2nd March: Kepow Theatre in Seven Ages of Man, Durweston village hall, 7.30pm Saturday 2nd March: Blandford Boxing Show, held at Blandford School, doors open 7pm 07788907343 for ticket prices Monday 4th March: Blandford Floral Group meets, United Reformed Church Hall 2.15pm for demonstration by Lucy Ellis Springfever. Details: Jean on 01258 452889 Monday 4th March: Child Okeford Centre for Care and Learning, Christine Shaw (traveller) presents ‘Delhi to Katmandu’, to book and for more details 01258 860767 Tuesday 5th March: Wills and Attorney surgery with Jerome Dodge at Age Concern, Blandford; to book call 01258 458250 Tuesday 5th March: Blandford branch of the Dorset Cyclist Network meets, 50 Kings Road, Blandford, 7.30pm. All cyclists welcome Tuesday 5th March: New beginners’ Salsa class starts at the Bryanston Club, Blandford Forum, DT11 0PR. £5 per class, doors open at 7.45pm Wednesday 6th March: Blandford Art Society presents

Entries in this diary are free of charge. If you have an event you would like included, please send details to Nicci Brown, 01258 459346 or email s.n.b@btinternet.com. This page is available and regularly updated on our website at www.forumfocus.co.uk ‘Sculpture: by Ian Edwards’, with introduction to sculpture for beginners, Blandford Parish Centre, from 6.50pm Wednesday 6th March: Blandford Forum Film Society presents The Well Digger's Daughter (Cert PG), The Blandford School, 7.30pm Wednesday 6th March: Magnum Carnival Club Bingo Pimperne Village Hall 7.30pm Friday 8th March: My Darling Clemmie with Rohan McCullough, Portman Hall, Shillingstone, 7.30pm Saturday 9th March: Charity coffee morning for Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research, Tarrant Gunville village hall Saturday 9th March: Charlton Marshall Bingo in support of Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance, Church Room Saturday 9th March: Blandford Museum Brodie Lecture 7pm, Parish Centre. 'Blandford Museum working in Armenia' Saturday 9th March: My Darling Clemmie with Rohan McCullough, Milborne St Andrew village hall, 7.30pm Saturday 9th March: Three Cane Whale acoustic trio, Ibberton village hall, 7.30pm Wednesday 13th March: Blandford Carers Group meets, Pluss Mobility, Holland Business Park, 2 to 4pm, contact 01258 459215 Wednesday 13th March: Blandford Forum Film Society presents 'Heaven', (Cert 15), The Blandford School, 7.30pm Friday 15th March: Preetz Friendly Society AGM, Community Room, Church Lane, Blandford, 7.30pm

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Friday 15th March: Durweston Film Night: Gambit, Durweston village hall 7.30pm Saturday 16th March: Dorset

Rural Music School Open Day, The Close, Blandford, 10am to 2pm Saturday 16th March: Blandford and Sturminster Newton Cats Protection coffee morning and sale, Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion, Blandford, 10am to 12.30pm Saturday 16th March: Coffee morning for Riding for the Disabled (Hanford branch), Iwerne Minster Village Club, 10am to noon Saturday 16th March: Shifting Sands theatre company presents 'Boxed In', Child Okeford village hall, 7.30pm, an Artsreach promotion Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th March: Blandford Orchard Group (Blandford Forum Transition Town) working morning. All welcome, details 01258 857336 Sunday 17th March: Blandford Art Society presents "Ironing for Fun" - Encaustic art - painting in wax, with Sue Board, Pimperne village hall Sunday 17th March: Wedding Fayre, Crown Hotel Sunday 17th March: Durweston Spring Concert with the Dorset Guitar Society, Durweston village hall, 8pm, for tickets call 01258 453170 Tuesday 19th March: presentation by Dorset Waste Partnership, Spetisbury parish council meeting, Spetisbury village hall, 7.30pm Wednesday 20th March: North Dorset branch of the Dorset Wildlife Trust present 'Sand Lizards after the Fire', by Nigel Brooks, Fontmell Magna village hall, 7.30pm Thursday 21st March: Friends of Blandford Hospital Easter Bingo, hospital dining room, eyes down 7.30pm

Friday 22nd March: Blandford U3A open meeting: "Cold War? I'll say it was". Espionage and Intrigue in Moscow with Aubone Pyke, 2pm at Durweston Village Hall Friday 22nd March: Blandford Stour Rotary Charity dinner with Nobby and John Stiles, Crown Hotel, Blandford, tickets 01258 488879.

Saturday 23rd March: Blandford Art Society practical art workshop, United Reformed Church Hall, Blandford Saturday 23rd March: Jumble sale and coffee and cake stall, Iwerne Minster Village Club, 10am Saturday 23rd March: ‘Meetloaf At The Movies’: songs by Meatloaf, plus songs from Grease, Dirty Dancing, Rocky Horror, etc, The Crown Hotel, 7.30pm Saturday 23rd March: Wilton Point to Point, Milborne St Andrew, first race 1pm Sunday 24th March: Blandford Choral Society Palm Sunday concert in Blandford Parish Church, 4pm, proceeds to the Cupola Project, tickets £8 from church office Sunday 24th March: Magnum Carnival Club Quiz Farquharson Arms Pimperne, at 8pm Monday 25th March: Cancer Research UK Blandford branch meeting, Winterborne Zelston village hall, 7pm Wednesday 27th March: Blandford Forum Film Society AGM at 7.15 pm followed by The Angel's Share (UK/France/Belgium, 2012, Cert 15), The Blandford School Friday 29th March to Monday 1st April: Marilyn Allis art exhibition and book signing, The Studior, East Farm, Winterborne Whitechurch, 11am to 4pm, FREE entry Saturday 30th March: Blandford Museum opens, Beres Yard, Market Place