August 2019 Forum Focus

Forum Focus The free monthly news magazine for the Blandford area

August 2019 Issue No. 89 Est: 2012

Rat run drivers cause chaos Villages and schools feel the backlash THE four-week closure of Durweston bridge for the strengthening of the causeway and culverts carrying the A357 over the river Stour floodplain impacted heavily on nearby villages as large volumes of traffic sought to avoid a lengthy diversion by using the back lanes.

There were reports that, on the first Saturday of the four-week closure, more than five times the usual number of 900 cars went through the grounds of Bryanston School, the term-time home to 700 students, with many travelling above the speed limit of 20mph.

There were similar problems in Child Okeford, with cars passing St Nicholas Primary School in Haywards Lane, and in Durweston, where the road outside Durweston Primary is often congested with parked cars.

It prompted a number of people to ask why the work was carried out during the school term and not during the summer holidays.

But as previously reported in Forum Focus, there had been extensive consultation on the timing of the operation so as to cause the least possible disruption and not coincide with the schools' exam period in early June and heavy tourist traffic during the summer.

Martin Rudd, chairman of Child Okeford Parish Council, said: "The project has pushed an

FORUM FOCUS

Excavation work pictured by the cycling group Is It Wheely Wednesday. increasing amount of traffic times, with traffic tailing back sevthrough Child Okeford, where eral hundred metres in both essentially country lanes are directions, was static for longer unsuited to large volumes of trafthan the recommended diversion fic and especially unsuited to would take!" larger vehicles.

He added that, as was often the "The phase when the bridge was case with works such as this, it closed has was pleasseen the most ing to see significant investment impact on trafin the highfic volumes. ways netThe most work, and pressing issue they looked was not the to see a danger outlong-term side the benefit. school, but Bryanston the speed and The morning after demolition work started.

School's frustration head of shown, especially during the start operations Richard Ball said they and end of working days. had been fully consulted and kept "This would seem to be the case fully informed on progress of the regardless of school term, but the scheme by Dorset Council, who jam around pick-up and drop-off had provided all the signage they

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asked for, and done the best they could for what was a very difficult job.

"Although there was an increase in traffic through the school grounds, the vast majority was courteous and there were no real problems.

"We could have closed the road through the school, but if we had all the traffic would have gone through Bryanston village, which would have been much worse."

The bridge closure was due to end on schedule on July 21, a month after it started on June 22 after weeks of preparation work.

An early start and finish was arranged to ensure that the wedding of a couple at St Nicholas' Church in Durweston was not disrupted later in the day by the noisy demolition of the old culverts and roadway. • To Page 4

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August 2019

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: de@deadlines.eclipse.co.uk Forum Focus is an independent, not-forprofit, community publication produced entirely by volunteers. We are always pleased to receive offers of help.

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Copies can be picked up from any of our drop points below: Blandford and Blandford St Mary: Morrisons, Greyhound Yard; M&S Langton Road; The Post Office, Library and Parish Centre in The Tabernacle, the Corn Exchange, the Spar shop in Market Place, Gorge Cafe in East Street, Blandford Museum in the Market Place, the Tourist Information Centre in West Street, Chaffers in Salisbury Street, James Newsagents in The Plocks, the Co-op in Salisbury Road, the 3Cs in Damory Street, the Damory Garage and One Stop in Salisbury Road, Cherry's hairdressers in Elizabeth Road, Blandford Leisure Centre in Milldown Road, the Blandford Connect Day Centre and the Central Shop in Heddington Drive, the Brewery Visitor Centre, Lidl in Higher Shaftesbury Lane, and Tesco and Homebase at Stour Park.

In the villages: Charlton Marshall Church Rooms and Charlton pub, Marcia’s Market, Clapcotts Farm, Spetisbury, Abbott Garden Centre, Langton Long, True Lovers Knot and St Richard Close bus stop in Tarrant Keyneston, Langton Arms in Tarrant Monkton, Anvil and Farquharson pubs in Pimperne, the White Horse Inn at Stourpaine, Iwerne Minster Post Office, Child Okeford Post Office, Shillingstone Garage, Okeford Fitzpaine village shop, Londis Shop & Royal Oak at Milborne St Andrew, The Crown at Winterborne Stickland, Post Office and Surgery, Milton Abbas, and The Cricketers at Shroton.

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Steam Fair traffic issues addressed THE 51st Great Dorset Steam Fair attracting thousands of visitors to South down, Tarrant Hinton, opens on Thursday August 22 and ends on Bank Holiday Monday August 26.

Following last year's considerable issues over traffic management for the 50th anniversary show, which attracted record crowds, parish representatives have been reassured by the return of the company responsible in earlier years.

Hilary Fildes, in Tarrant Hinton, said: "I think everyone is confident it will be a smaller show and better run."

The temporary speed limit on the A354 over the period of the show will be 40mph rather than 30mph, and will be over the usual stretch of road from Turnpike Cottage to South Farm/Collingwood Corner, with additional 30mph limits in Valley Road. The traveller site to deter unauthorised camping will be opening the weekend before the show opens until after it closes.

The show continues to feature the World War One commemoration area with its highly acclaimed replica Western Front trench system, including a 50-metre underground bunker of tunnels and

rooms reconstructed to WWI plans, and replica WWI tanks and crews from the Norfolk and Bovington Tank Museums and the Pond Farm Collection from Passchendaele in Belgium.

To mark the 80th anniversary of the start of World War Two, a new WW2 area with vehicles and equipment in a re-creation of a battle-damaged French village square will feature a stage with performers singing and playing music of the war years, including the Glenn Miller Orchestra UK and the D-Day Darlings featured on Britain's Got Talent in 2018.

There will as usual be a live music programme across the six stages in the 'Old Rosie' Outdoor Concert Stage, the Countryman Stage and the Real Ale, Black Bull, Michael Oliver and Shires Arms Marquees.

Blandford and surrounding villages have again been offered free and two-for-one tickets in recognition of the disruption caused by the presence of the fair. In Blandford the free ticket winners were being drawn on July 31 in a ballot, and two-forone tickets were available only until August 1 from the council offices in Church Lane.

THE Museum Inn at Farnham, The Cricketers at Shroton and The Langton Arms at Tarrant Monkton are all featured in the AA's newly revamped Pub Guide 2020, which lists the top 2,000 pubs in the UK for food, drink, atmosphere and accommodation.

The Langton Arms is also a finalist in the 'Best for Family' section of the Morning Advertiser's Pub of the Year Awards whose awards ceremony will take place in London on September 5.

August 2019

Inspections lead to good reports for residential homes TWO Blandford residential homes - one for the elderly, the other for the young - have both received good reports from independent inspectors.

The Priory Blandford CAMHS School in Heddington Drive, with just six 11- to 18-year-olds on roll and run by Partnerships in Care Ltd as a subsidiary of the Priory Group, has had its first inspection

by Ofsted since opening last year.

It was found to have good overall effectiveness with an 'outstanding' rating for personal development, behaviour and welcome.

An inspection report has yet to be published by the Care Quality Commission for the Priory Hospital, which is run by the Priory Group.

The school caters exclusively for pupils who have been admitted to the hospital with complex mental health diagnoses with a headteacher who has been in post since January this year, and an executive headteacher who started in May. The Ofsted inspection report describes the strong vision for the school of leaders who have, since a pre-registration inspection in July last year, taken effective action to ensure that all independent school standards are met.

It says the school staff communicate highly effectively with on-site healthcare professionals, and the integrated health and education plans ensure that pupils are well supported in the range of activities across the school day.

It also outlines potential improvements in ensuring pupils have challenging work with a high-quality reading strategy and religious education, and that barriers to learning are overcome.

The full report can be found at gov.uk/ofsted.

The Grange in Milldown Road, which at its last inspection published in June 2018 required improvement, has now achieved a good rating across all areas from the Care Quality Commission, whose report was published at the end of June.

The inspectors found strong leadership under the management of Mathilde Wagner, and a positive culture with a drive to continuously improve the service with robust quality assurance systems.

The home, with 57 residents aged over 65, provided a friendly, welcoming and relaxed environment.

Residents were supported by caring and compassionate staff who overall treated them with dignity and respect, and knew their life histories, personal circumstances, preferences, interests and communication needs.

They received person-centred care from staff who developed positive, meaningful relationships with them, and had opportunities to socialise and pursue their interests and hobbies.

Care plans were detailed and up to date, and residents and relatives said the service was safe.

The full report can be found on the CQC website at cqc.org.uk.

Firefighters needed FIREFIGHTERS gave people the chance to 'have a go' and consider becoming an on-call firefighter at Blandford Fire Station.

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service needs new on-call recruits to provide fire cover at locations across Dorset and Wiltshire, but particularly in Blandford.

Each fire station team provides cover for weekdays, evenings, nights and weekends. To be on-call, people need to be able to respond to their local station in around five minutes from their home or work once their pager goes off.

Employers can benefit from a firefighter's training - such as first-aid, manual handling, a greater understanding of health & safety in the workplace, and enhanced team spirit.

On-Call Support Officer Martin Hoole, who organised the event, said: "There was a chance to cut up a car, try on breathing apparatus, climb a ladder and do the national firefighter selection test for carrying equipment."

Anyone interested in being an on-call firefighter and who was unable to attend the event can find out more at dwfire.org.uk.

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Kate Seeger, Deborah Seely and Chloe Hume with children Nikki Hume and Lani Seeger in Blandford Market Place with the giant screwdriver created for the production, which will be performed in the Corn Exchange on August 24 and 25. Story: Page 14.

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August 2019

Villages and schools suffer rat run ordeal • From Page 1 Contractors then worked often from 5.30am and through to the early evening, as well as on Saturdays and Sundays, to get the project finished as soon as possible.

Precast culvert units, each weighing 13 tons, have been installed with retaining walls made of wire baskets filled with stone to support the road and channel flood water into the culverts whose surrounds have been backfilled with concrete.

The road above is constructed using a recycled, cement-bound material made from road planings, saving money and reducing the carbon footprint of the scheme, and pre-cast units have been installed as bridge parapets.

The team has also started repairs to Durweston bridge following a collision earlier this year, and brought forward the upgrade of the permanent signals on the A350/A357 junction, installing new ducting, poles and signal heads to be fitted and tested ready for the

junction's reopening.

All but the parapets needed to be finished before July 18 ready for the surfacing gang to lay the new road surface that day and the next, and the road was expected to be ready to reopen on July 21, with three-way lights back in action.

But temporary lights will need to remain in place until early August so steel reinforcement work to the parapets, kerbing and traffic light upgrades can be safely finished.

Cyclists get a close-up view of the work THERE have been a number of opportunities for people to see for themselves how the project has been progressing, not least through a video link to an onsite camera giving a bird's eye view of activity hour by hour.

The cycling group Is It Wheely Wednesday, which meets at Shillingstone station on the first Wednesday of every month to pedal along the North Dorset Trailway, took the opportunity of a detour on July 3 via the link path and over the little iron bridge which took them over the Stour to Durweston Mill and on to the A357.

The road is usually avoided by slow-moving travellers, but on this occasion its closure meant it was safe for even novice cyclists to pedal the short stretch to observe the 'dig' resulting from the major repairs to the flood arches, which revealed the old brickwork arches constructed

long ago to raise the road above the Stour's flood plain.

And while Durweston School were unhappy that the road was closed for a month, the repair works were just too good a learning opportunity to miss, and Dorset Council were kind enough to arrange visits for all the classes before and after the demolition works.

The older children were horrified to learn about the abuse that has been hurled at the workmen by motorists frustrated by the delays. The younger children were delighted to be able to walk through the flood arches and learn about all the machinery.

"Back at school, the children, inspired by what they learned, have been busy building their own bridges and diggers. "Let's hope we've inspired some future engineers," said head teacher Nicola Brooke.

TWO people were taken to hospital following a collision north of Thornicombe on the A354 on the afternoon of July 7.

The road was closed for nearly three hours between the Tesco roundabout in Blandford and the junction to Winterborne Kingston.

Police, fire and ambulance services attended.

The following day, one person was taken to hospital with injuries which were not believed to be serious following a collision between three vehicles on the A354 Blandford bypass at the junction with Langton Road. The vehicles involved were a silver Vauxhall Insignia, a blue Mercedes panel van and a red Volvo V40.

Durweston Primary School children learn how the road carriageway and culverts are being constructed.

What can YOU do in the war on plastics?

WHAT three things could you do to reduce your use of plastic?

That was the challenge issued to more than 40 people attending the inaugural meeting of the newly formed Blandford War on Waste (WOW) in Blandford Church.

Organiser Yvonne Mieville said: "Anyone following the five-part BBC series 'War on Plastic' will have become somewhat horrified to learn about the state of affairs surrounding our addiction to single-use plastics.

"It has become clear that solutions are not going to come from corporations or our government.

We need to do something now and we need to act collectively to stop the environmentally devastating effects of our dependency on the volume of plastic that we have become used to in our everyday lives.

"We'd like those interested in participating in this movement to join

us. We plan to work to reduce/eliminate this destructive practice in our area. We need to act now as part of a grass-roots movement to push for national change."

She suggested choosing products not wrapped in film, or taking cups to coffee shops and outdoor events. Ideas flowed thick and fast from her audience, not only on changes which could be made and impressing the need for them on manufacturers and retailers, but also on obstacles to plastic use reduction, for example in the health service, and the impact of alternatives.

A further meeting took place in the Parish Church, and the group will also be represented at the Sustainability Fair in Angus Wood, St Leonard's Avenue, on Sunday August 18. The group can be followed on Facebook at Blandford War on Waste. • See also Page 18.

August 2019

Change of venue helps advisers reach more people A NEW outreach venue for the Citizens Advice service in Blandford, at the Parish Centre in The Plocks, has prompted an increase in demand and an appeal for more people to join the local team of advisers.

Service manager Elaine Morley said: "The new venue, which has been in use since last December, is really paying dividends for the local community and is popular with clients and staff alike.

"Between January and March 2019 our advisers were able to see 18 per cent more clients in person and 21 per cent more clients with a disability or longterm health condition than in the same time period last year, due to the improved disability access and a higher profile location.

"We are actively looking to recruit additional volunteer advisers to join our local team."

Full training will be given, starting in September, and more information can be obtained by emailing asm-nd@dsnd.org.uk or calling 01747 835016.

She said the move to the Parish Centre was an example of partnership working, hosted and supported by both Rev Jonathan Triffitt and his team from Blandford Parish Church, and the food bank for which vouchers or

food bank boxes are available as part of the holistic advice given.

She said she was delighted when one of the Blandford Town Council CAB representatives, Doro Russell, called in to see the advisers working at their new location in July.

Councillor Russell said: "I dropped in as I wanted to see the work they do for our community. I was particularly interested in the plight of Universal Credit applicants who struggle to access the service and how they can be supported.

"Elaine Morley and Susan Gibson gave me an insight into the many aspects of their work and I would like to support their appeal for more volunteers. If Blandford CAB could open twice a week instead of only once, this would be a truly amazing achievement for everyone concerned."

Citizens Advice is at the Blandford Parish Centre on Tuesdays between 10am and 3pm, with a triage service operating after 2.30pm. There is a system of appointments and drop-in service on the day. Anyone wishing to make an appointment can call their advice line on 0344 2451291 where initial advice can also be given.

• See Letters, Page 12.

Jennifer’s prize tale A TEENAGER from the Blandford area has won first prize in a national story-writing competition created by the producers of the hit musical Wicked.

Jennifer Allen, aged 13, won the 11-14 age category for Dying Words, an unusual story about the daughter of a 'life writer' who writes the lives and deaths of mortals.

The competition, set up in association with the National Literacy Trust to encourage and recognise excellence in writing and creativity and to develop literacy and writing talent in young people, is now in its ninth year, and attracted more than 4,500 submissions.

A panel of judges was led by author and illustrator of the How to Train Your Dragon books, Cressida Cowell, and included poets Inua Ellams and Hussain Manawar, Jonathan Douglas (director of the National Literacy Trust), Michael McCabe (executive producer of Wicked) and Nicky Cox (editor-in-chief of First News).

The 120 finalists, their families and teachers who attended a ceremony at London's Apollo Victoria Theatre were split into six categories, and prizes were given to the schools with the most individual entries.

The overall winners from each category won £50 worth of book/eBook tokens and a VIP family experience at the West End production of Wicked, including tickets, an exclusive backstage tour and a meet-and-greet with cast members.

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Elaine Morley, Susan Gibson and Doro Russell at the CAB Outreach service at Blandford Parish Centre.

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August 2019

Railway group making good headway THE annual Steam-Up at Shillingstone station coincided with the announcement that the North Dorset Railway Trust has now become a Community Interest Organisation (CIO) and will be known as the North Dorset Railway.

The event featured an extensive range of steam-driven traction engines, rollers, vintage cars, and even a steam-assisted car which offered rides.

The station's volunteer staff helped run the show from the café, shop, signal box, museum and parking, especially assisting the disabled.

There were special thanks to the many traction engine and vintage vehicle owners for their time supporting the event, and particularly to Norman Young Transport for their showpieces,

The line-up of steam engines at the Steam-Up. and for supplying coal deliveries throughout the weekend.

Chairman David Caddy said the new status for North Dorset Railway will enable it to conduct business in its own right and another step towards becoming an operational heritage rail-

way.

He said: "Many thanks to all our hardworking volunteers who have devoted considerable time and effort towards achieving our objectives, and to everyone who has made donations to help the railway move forward.

"The recent Leader grant to increase safety access at Shillingstone has enabled the Trailway diversion behind the down platform, new disabled facilities and upgrading of the down platform. These enhancements will benefit all users of the Trailway and station visitors."

For further information or to become a volunteer visit shillingstone-railway-project.org.uk, or call in for a tour, sample the menu in the café or browse the station shop and the museum.

Village festival produces fun and funds SPETISBURY Festival raised £6,000 for local organisations, including the chosen charities of Blandford Food Bank, Dorset Mind and Lytchett Youth Rugby Club, who will each receive £1,500.

The remainder will be shared between other good causes, including the village hall roof fund, a 'village pot' to enhance community efforts/initiatives, the

Blandford Cadets, Spetisbury Church, Spetisbury School, and Charlton Marshall Scouts.

Festival favourites included the art exhibition, the big quiz and the open gardens, when showers gave people an excuse to head to the village hall for tea and cakes remaining from a fiercely contested Cake Off. New events included an excellent talk from Julian Black about the

Bankes family, yoga at the school, and a change of scene for the Radio Play with standing room only at Marcia's Market for the comedy classic 'Dads Army' performed by SORE (Spetisbury Occasional Radio Enthusiasts).

Rain prevented another new event, moth trapping, but the sun came out for Country Day, and finally Fairway to Heaven by SODS (Spetisbury Occasional Dramatic Society) left the audience rolling in the aisles.

The organising committee has thanked everyone involved in giving their support and attendance, with particular gratitude for their help on Country Day to Mike and John Seare and David Tory for the use and preparation of their land, to Emma Costello for sponsorship, to Mick and Julie Fowler for their commitment and to Mary Armitage for publicity.

The Festival AGM is scheduled for October 10, when new volunteers will be welcome.

Daryl’s rallycross dream BREWERY worker Daryl Chaffey is seeking help to fulfil his dream of becoming a rallycross driver.

Daryl, 27, who works in the warehouse at Hall & Woodhouse's Blandford St Mary brewery, is a big motorsport fan who always wanted to be a racing driver and last year tried out the single-seat thrill at Silverstone.

But he had in 2013 discovered rallycross, short races on a mix of dirt and tarmac, and in May this year had the chance to test a Suzuki Swift rallycross car with Peter Gwynne Motorsport.

"It is his championship I am wanting to start my rallycross career in. I know it's going to be tough but it's a challenge worth taking on," he said. "If anyone who loves motorsport wants to help me start my rallycross career and help out along the way, I would appreciate them contacting me by email to dazzaRX@outlook.com."

FOLLOWING completion of the Badger Cross upgrade at the junction of Salisbury Street with Salisbury Road, Park Road and Damory Street, Dorset Council is seeking people's views on the project.

Residents, councillors and others have been sent survey cards and offered a link by accessing the Dorset Highways - Works Feedback site by entering the project number 14107039.

Comments are also invited on access during the works, the cooperation and attitude of the workforce, the appearance of the finished project and level of improvement achieved, and their opinion of the disruption caused.

Baffling Blandford is back!

Bamboozling walks with magicians Paul Hyland and Jana Bundy start from The Crown Hotel at 4pm each Sunday in August, with a special benefit for Blandford Town Museum on Sunday August 4.

August 2019

Town enhancement cash bid submitted A BID has been submitted to Historic England (HE) to double the ÂŁ300,000-plus funding which could be made available by Dorset Council, Blandford Town Council and private property and business owners to support the enhancement of Blandford town centre.

The expression of interest in the HE Heritage Action Zone programme, whose outcome will not be known until the autumn, focuses on the preservation of the town's Georgian centre, including streets which run into and out of the Market Place (East Street, The Plocks, Sheep Market Hill and Salisbury Street) by reviving its economy through the development of a more welcoming central public square in the Market Place, improved access and expansion of facilities and events attracting pedestrian usage.

It has been drawn up by the Blandford Town Team with the assistance of town and county council officers and with the additional support of councillors and local cultural and heritage groups, expanding on the existing heritage conservation work

on specific buildings.

It says extra funding will enable a comprehensive approach to be taken to improving the central part of the town, particularly the Market Square and developing a cultural programme to boost the town centre economy.

The bid has been given additional support by Blandford and Stour Rotary, the Disability Action Group, the Tourist Information Centre and by Forum Focus.

Nic Nicol, chairman of the Town Team, told town councillors at their planning committee meeting that two options were being considered with highway officers: pedestrianisation of the whole of the parking area in front of the Corn Exchange, or retaining some space to allow some short-stay parking and room for market traders' vehicles.

He said considering the whole of the Market Place and traffic flow throughout the town might be a long-term aspiration but for this project, which must be completed within four years, pedestrianisation of the parking spaces was preferred.

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THE Comedy Exchange saw entertainment from Steve Carlin (above) and from a surprise guest, Neil Braeman, who will be MC for a new series of monthly stand-up comedy nights, Laughter Lines, starting on Friday September 13 at the Hall & Woodhouse Brewery Tap in Blandford St Mary.

The Comedy Exchange returns on September 28 with Britain's Got Talent semi-finalist Barbara Nice. Tickets are on sale now for those shows and for The Borrowers at the end of August at b-c-p.co.uk.

Blandford Community Promotions have thanked everyone who has supported them so far on their journey, which started just over two years ago to bring great entertainment to Blandford and help save its stage in the Corn Exchange.

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August 2019

A healthy future ahead, hospital Friends assured THE emergence of Primary Care Networks provides a vehicle through which community and primary care services could be transformed, reducing the divide between what happens in the hospitals and what happens in GP practices.

That was the message from the chief executive of Dorset Healthcare University NHS Trust, Eugine Yafele, to the Friends of Blandford Community Hospital at their annual general meeting.

The Blandford Primary Care Network, based on the town's two practices which are merging later this year and led by Dr Madeleine Ford, is one of 18 PCNs in the county.

Mr Yafele said opportunities existed for a number of things Dorset Healthcare wanted to do in Blandford, and they were looking forward to providing an inte-

grated service to empower people in making the most of their lives.

"Dorset Healthcare is a wellbeing service, not a treatment service.

My vision for community hospitals is that they need to be vibrant assets for the community.

Services may change, but they will increase and it is our intention to make the most of these fabulous facilities."

He said he shared the Friends' embarrassment that the Portman Unit, which opened five years ago, remained underused, and that following the Trust's clinical services review, they would be bringing in services that were needed.

But there were major challenges, including maintaining the workforce and staffing, managing a collection of services that were not replicated across the county,

President Mac MacLaughlin of the Friends of Blandford Community Hospital with Dorset HealthCare University NHS Trust chief executive Eugine Yafele, Hospital Matron Helen Hunt, Friends chairman Steve Cole and treasurer Trevor Bridle at the Friends' AGM. and sustainability.

Membership of the Friends has dropped from 1,500 some years ago to 900 today, and chairman Steve Cole appealed for new members and for more trustees to serve on the Friends' Council. He thanked particularly Trevor Bridle, who gave his last report on the Friends' finances having stood down as treasurer after many years.

Mr Bridle, whose successor after shadowing the role for the past 12 months is Steve Hayward, said the Friends' retained a healthy balance after spending nearly £130,000 on charitable activities and raising over £150,000

through trading activities, which include the proceeds of its two charity shops in Blandford and Sturminster Newton and recordbreaking fundraising events.

Matron Helen Hunt thanked the Friends for their support in Tarrant Ward, for the new main reception entrance doors and new windows on the façade of the building.

She said the Minor Injuries Unit was as busy as ever, seeing up to 30 cases a day, and there had been developments in day surgery and the introduction of community support workers offering seven-day support to individuals in their homes.

An artful way to help a good cause THE Friends will once again be hosting an 'Affordable Art' exhibition from Friday August 2 to Saturday August 10, at their charity shop in Barnack Walk, Blandford, open 10am to 4pm Monday to Saturday.

A top limit of £30 has been placed on the prices for a wide selection of locally painted pictures, prints and cards. Joan Capron, the organiser and main contributor, has been busy since their last exhibition and has produced an interesting body of work in different styles and mediums.

To add to the variety several of her friends and fellow shop volunteers have also donated paintings and sketches.

Everything in the exhibition has been given on the basis of 100% donation so that all proceeds go to help the valuable work done by the charity.

Joan enjoys spending time in the charity shop during the exhibition and loves chatting to visitors about the paintings, the stories behind them and the mediums used.

Various examples of her work can be found on the Friends of Blandford Hospital Facebook page.

For further information call 01258 451456 or see friend- One of Joan Capron's paintings in the sofblandford.org.uk.

Friends' art exhibition.

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August 2019

Friendly golf

Curtain up on new film year

THE Friends of Blandford Hospital held their fifth annual charity golf day at Ashley Wood Golf Club when 18 teams competed and over ÂŁ2,350 was raised for the charity.

Funds raised will support the charity's projects at the hospital and throughout the local community, and the Friends thanked the golf club for allowing them full use of their fantastic facilities, the local businesses that offered sponsorship and prizes, the volunteers who helped organise and run the event, and the golfers who were so generous while enjoying their day. Next year's event will be held at Ashley Wood on Friday June 19, and team slots can be reserved now.

A NEW season of 14 films from around the world hosted at The Blandford School by the Blandford Forum Film Society starts in September and runs until March.

The new season includes the Oscar-winning true life story 'Blackkklansman', the delightful 'Stan and Ollie' with Steve Coogan as Stan Laurel, the Foreign Film Oscar nominees 'Shoplifters' from Japan and 'Cold War' from Poland, and 'Fighting With My Family', Stephen Merchant's comedy about a family of wrestlers from Norwich seeking the big time in the US. Films start on Wednesday nights at 7.45pm, with tea and coffee available beforehand, and parking next to the school hall, with full disabled access.

New members are always warmly welcomed - a bonus is that members can borrow any film on DVD from previous Film Society seasons free.

For information contact membership secretary Sarah Fale on 01258 268139, by email to blandfordfilm@googlemail.com or visit blandfordfilm.org.

The overall winning team represented Blandford Taxis and was made up of (left to right) Jacob Jeal, Brian Dunn, Tommy Duffey and, reclining with his Pimms, Charlie Sutton.

The winning Ladies' team was (left to right) Robine Pope, Val Scott, Vicky Kardas and Sue Gibson.

And the overall best mixed team was (left to right) Mike Jones, Janet Jones, Gill Parsons-Fox and Jim Bird.

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August 2019

Scouts’ action-packed trip

Snap decision Psychic fair NORTH Dorset Snap-On franchisee Craig Bishop, 32, receives his award after being named 'Young Franchisee of the Year' in the British Franchise Association HSBC Franchise Awards by a panel of specialist judges, who considered hundreds of entries from businesses spanning all industries and sectors. Winners were announced during an awards ceremony in Birmingham. Craig attended the event with girlfriend, Amy, who supports him in the running of the business, and the Snap-on franchise team.

THE Psychic, Holistic and Natural Crafts Fair came to The Crown Hotel in Blandford in support of the Dorset Cancer Care Foundation.

There were all manner of readings, from psychic to spiritual and Tarot to tea leaf from psychic, mystical and holistic crafts and practices, including Reiki and crystals, Indian head massage, angel healing, soy candles, card art and coppicing, face painting, hair wrapping and a lucky dip for children. Pictured is the internationally renowned psychic medium Joy Dalton.

CHARLTON Marshall Scout Group took their Beaver and Cub packs to Butchers Coppice in Dorset for two nights camping and two days of fun activities. The children enjoyed caving, a high ropes course, a pirate-themed party, crafts, axe throwing and camp fires. The group were lucky to have benefited from a recent grant from Charlton Marshall Parish Council Solar Farm Fund which paid for new tents and shelters. The group is seeking a new chairman to succeed Thomas Mortimer who retires this summer. For information email thomas.mortimer@hotmail.com.

SERVICE users at the Blandford Connect Centre in Heddington Drive have been working with volunteer Mary Kinsler to complete an unusual piece of art - a large piece made from bottle tops, based on an environmental issue.

Trina, Clare and Sian attend the Monday art class, and planned out the contents of the picture, asking for donations of plastic bottle tops, before spending many hours gluing on the hundreds of tops, including elements affected by waste.

It is now on display in The CafĂŠ at the centre, where people are welcome to view it and perhaps enjoy a cuppa and cake.

11

August 2019

Win’s milestone

Judges Ken and Sheila Bailey display Dave Manston's winning entry in the sweet pea section.

Dave’s floral clean sweep BLANDFORD & District Horticultural Society held its annual sweet pea and rose show at Tarrant Keyneston village hall, where Dave Manston was the winner of all the open sweet pea classes.

Ted Perrin and Tony Ashford were the winners of the Peter Early Shield and Muriel Davis Cup respectively in the premier classes for exhibitors growing not more than 250 plants, each winning two other classes. The other class winner was June Goddard for an arrangement in a candlestick.

Alan Newman produced the best rose in the rose classes, winning the Joyce Potter Rose Bowl for a vase of six large flowered roses, and four other classes. Other rose class winners were Tony Ashford, Lionel Harler, Dave Eastment and Norah Saynor.

The society holds its 32nd annual flower and vegetable show at the same venue on Saturday August 10, opening to the public at noon and featuring the weigh-in for the great potato challenge at 2pm, presentation of prizes at 3pm and auction of produce at 3.30pm, followed by the raffle draw.

A FASCINATING slide show of `Pictures and People from our Past` was given to the audience in Charlton Marshall Church Room by local historian Mark Churchill. There were pictures going back to the 1930s of old homes in the village and many fields before developments from the 1960s onwards. The show included photographs of residents and several in the audience recognised themselves - quite a bit younger! - as well as friends, neighbours and relatives. Proceeds of the evening went to Charlton Marshall village hall.

BLANDFORD United Youth hosted their second youth football tournament on the playing fields of The Blandford School. The all-day tournament brought teams from all over Dorset and further afield, including Oxfordshire, and every available piece of land was occupied by games in progress.

THE 100th birthday of Win Woolley was celebrated at Castleman House in Blandford on July 2 with a party for all the residents and entertainment from the Shroton Ukulele Band, one of whose members was for many years her neighbour in Shroton.

Win was born in Blandford and has lived in the area all her life.

She started work aged 14 looking after the Master and his children of Bryanston School, which had opened only a few years earlier, and met Herbert, known as Jim, whom she married during the war. She has always enjoyed bingo, and still attends the session every Friday at Castleman House.

PYRAMIDAL Orchids around Blandford bypass are looking great at this time of year, and Giles Nicholson, Dorset Coast and Countryside's greenspace manager, says it is in part due to the increase in diversity of wildflowers since the change to a 'cut and collect' methodology. He said: "The verges around the bypass are Sites of Nature Conservation Interest (SNCIs), and Dorset Council's verge management in and around Blandford will, over time, continue to provide better opportunities for wild flowers."

12

Readers’ letters

Advisers invited I STARTED volunteering at my local Citizens Advice almost two years ago. I had enjoyed 20 years of headship, but was not yet quite ready to retire fully from work so wanted an opportunity to keep my brain active and give something back to society.

My first few weeks were spent on reception greeting clients and taking down information about them and the help they required.

This was a useful time as it gave me a chance to get to know the quite complex IT system and to get to know some of the advisers.

Soon the next training session began and I spent several weeks (one half-day in a training session and some time doing 'homework') learning about the benefit system, managing debt, housing, consumer problems, and much more which I knew nothing about.

I was able to listen in to the telephone advice line and sit in on client meetings with experienced advisers. Everyone in the office was extremely kind and helpful and the supervisor and manager were wonderfully patient.

After about six months I was allowed to give telephone advice and now see clients face to face as well, both at drop-in sessions and via booked appointments.

Our main source of information is the excellent Citizens Advice website which is updated weekly and provides us with up-to-date

August 2019 Please write to Forum Focus if there is something you'd like to comment on or share with other readers.

Email your letter, which should be as brief as possible, to: editor@forumfocus.co.uk.

Alternatively, you can call 01258 459346 or deliver your letter to: Forum Focus, c/o Colin's

information and directs us to other useful sites.

We are an important part of the local community with four locations across North Dorset. In 2018-19 we helped 1,792 people with 5,955 issues. We share knowledge and best practice so people can expect the same quality of support across our service.

We also work to fix the underlying causes of people's problems using data and evidence gathered from our network. You may have heard of some of our campaign issues such as the recent one on Universal Credit which has informed and changed government policy.

If you feel you could give a day a week to support your local Citizens Advice office, they would love to hear from you.

Sheelagh Brown Former Headteacher

Market forces I HAVE just read in Forum Focus that the Blandford Town Team whatever that means - wants to remove all the parking in Blandford Market Place to reduce air pollution.

You really don't understand the real problem.

The pollution comes from the constant stop-start of traffic along East Street to West Street where unthinking pedestrians assume the speed humps are pedestrian crossings, forcing traffic to stopstart.

Community Club, 49 Damory Street, Blandford DT11 7HD. Please mark your letter 'for publication' and remember to include your address, which will not be used in full. Forum Focus reserves the right to shorten or edit letters in the interests of clarity, brevity and style.

Get rid of the speed humps - that will speed up the traffic and pollution will be reduced.

Also remove any signs on the bypass that encourage traffic into the town. Visitors, when they come into town, are looking for somewhere to park.

If you seriously want to enhance the area try removing all the signs and road markings, closing all the charity shops and kebab and fast food outlets, turn unoccupied shops and the flats into social housing and achieve a town centre local people may like to live in or even visit.

Then maybe you might be listened to by them - you know, the people that matter.

T. Mason Farnham, Blandford

sure being put on the organisation, especially via the regional manager, service improved with more staff and a refit of the two Salisbury Street stores.

If this situation is one you are facing, please email Boots via their website, contact the Clinical Commissioning Group, let the shop manager know their service is not satisfactory.

There is no reason why we should have to put up with this. If you would like me to pass on your comments email jjtanners@hotmail.com.

John Tanner

Chemist shop woes

RESIDENTS in the Damory Down area are being consulted

by Blandford Town Council on the type of trees they would like to be planted, and where, to replace some which have had to be felled due to disease.

Seven on one of the central grassed areas were removed, and council tree warden, Councillor Doro Russell, is seeking residents' views on the species and locations for replanting.

They have until August 11 to give the council their views, which will then be checked by an arboriculturalist prior to any purchase being made.

They have also been asked if they would like to see more wildflower areas developed in line with the Dorset Council policy to let turf grow by reducing the number of close cuts.

RECENTLY I have received a number of emails etc regarding waiting times for prescriptions to be 'made up', having to return to collect the remainder of the tablets as there had not been sufficient in stock to supply the full number prescribed, not being sufficient numbers of staff to help those waiting to be served.

Apparently this is happening most of all in the smaller Boots in Salisbury Street. Once again the monopoly position of Boots in the town is resulting in a 'take it or leave it' attitude.

A number of years ago Boots service was very poor to the town and then, thanks to pres-

Tree views to be sought

August 2019

Cycling odyssey in mother’s memory A BLANDFORD man whose mother spent her last days fighting cancer in the Macmillan Caring Locally Unit is cycling from Morocco to Dorset to raise money in her memory.

James Waggott, along with friends Jack Curtin and Josh Worsey, will battle often mountainous terrain and intense heat during their five-week ride from Marrakesh, through Spain and France and back to England this September.

The trio, who fly to Marrakesh on August 31, hope to cover between 70 and 100 miles a day and are attempting the trip fully self-supported, carrying their food and water, sleeping in tents and cooking on a camping stove

James Waggott.

along the way.

They can be sponsored via.justgiving.com/fundraising/moroccoto-macmillan James said: "My mum Sarah Jane Waggott loved an adventure and Morocco was a country she would have really liked to have visited. Sadly she lost her battle against cancer before she had the chance, but she knew about our plans to make the Morocco trip and was 100 per cent supportive and excited, as she was with all the adventures we have had."

Sarah lived in Hurn with James's father Jon, their youngest son Jordon and their Doberman dog Tye. She was diagnosed with terminal cervical cancer in 2018 and died on May 15 this year.

James said: "She spent her last five days at the Macmillan Caring Locally Unit where all the staff and nurses looked after not just her, but also myself and the rest of my family including Jordon and our sisters Carli and Abi." Macmillan Caring Locally is not part of the national Macmillan charity but funds the Macmillan Unit built in the grounds of Christchurch Hospital in 1974 which supports more than 1,600 patients with life-limiting illnesses each year.

A Brick by Brick appeal launched by the charity to replace the outdated unit with a state-of-the-art specialist palliative care unit has already raised £5m but need to raise a further £6m.

James said: "We are hoping our ride will raise £3,000."

13

Cyclists outside Blandford Corn Exchange on the Macmillan Dorset Cycle Ride.

Riding for MacMillan HUNDREDS of cyclists came through Blandford on Sunday July 7 taking part in the Macmillan Dorset Cycle Ride.

The refreshment stop at the Corn Exchange was staffed by Macmillan volunteers, and sponsored by Rubicon People and Blandford company Iracroft.

In total more than 500 took part in the event, which started from Corfe Mullen Recreation, offering four different courses, with distances of 100, 63, 48 and 38 miles.

Ride organiser Peter Smith-Nicholls said he hopes the event, in its 31st year, in which over 100 volunteers were involved in signing, marshalling and manning refreshment points, will raise £50,000 for the cancer charity.

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August 2019

Puppets’ key role in Borrowers launch PUPPETS and performances will fill Blandford Market Place on Sunday August 4 for the Big Launch of the Blandford Little People at 12.30pm to preview the finale of Blandford's community theatre event three weeks later.

Organised by Kissing My Elbow Productions with the support of Forum Drama, the Town Council and Blandford Parish Church, rehearsals have been in progress for months for the four performances of 'The Borrowers', adapted

by Charles Way from Mary Norton's classic novel.

Saturday mornings in July were an opportunity for everyone to join in the Free Expressions Art Festival Summer Challenge to create puppets for the Big Launch.

It will also feature a performance of 'The Little People' which is being created at the three-day Remix Summer Adventure, which started on July 31 for 12- to 19year-olds who were invited to discover the lives of the characters who live under the floorboards and behind the walls through puppet making, movement, storytelling and music.

It may still be possible to book a place, costing £7.50, for a workshop in the Corn Exchange on August 3 where 7- to 11-year-olds will be making puppets which they can bring to life in a performance at the launch. To book phone 01305 260954 or email remix@activateperformingarts.org. uk.

On various dates in August, Blandford Library is hosting the Blandford Little People Storytime, with cast and characters from The Borrowers, and it will be possible to spot some of the Little People living in the town at the Dorset Rural Music School in The Close, and at the Town Museum in Bere's Yard.

Performances of 'The Borrowers' will take place in the Corn Exchange on Saturday August 24 at 2pm and 6.30pm, and on Sunday August 25 at 2pm and 6.30pm.

Meanwhile, preparations are continuing for the Free Expression Arts Festival in the town centre on Sunday September 15. Organiser Kate Seeger said: "I would like to offer exhibition space for some emerging young artists. The quality I saw at Blandford schools' summer exhibition was very high."

This exhibition will run both Saturday and Sunday and there is one free space at the Dorset Art Fair which is on the Sunday. For details contact her at freeexpressioncreative@gmail.com.

Voskresenije, the Russian a capella choir who performed a magical concert in the Parish Church last October, have confirmed their intention of returning to Blandford on Thursday October 10. If you missed them last year this is your chance to enjoy something special. Details to follow soon.

Back row: Taryn, Millie, Stephen, Max, Front row: Charlie, Wilf, Nishchala, Avantika, Natalie, Cerys.

Flyers in the medals THE Blandford Flyers swimming club had an impressive haul of successes at the Dorset County Development Meet at Littledown.

Nineteen swimmers attended the event over the weekend and between them accumulated 59 personal best times, 19 gold medals, 10 silver, and 12 bronzes.

The club's head coach Trevor Keep said: "The County Development Meet is the accumulation of a full year's training for a lot of our swimmers and it was immensely satisfying to see such huge rewards for all the time and effort the swimmers have put into their training over the year."

For more details visit blandfordflyers.co.uk.

Messages of hope in tackling dementia BLANDFORD Dementia Action Alliance celebrated its relaunch by welcoming almost 40 representatives from local groups and businesses at a cheese and wine evening hosted by Lesley Shand funeral directors, with wine donated by Morrisons.

Keynote speaker Dr Bernie Coope, lead consultant for older persons' mental health, gave a talk on living with dementia, pro-

viding a message of hope that people can live well when in a supportive community.

Other speakers included Anita Roberts, the new co-ordinator for Blandford DAA, who spoke about the group's vision to establish a dementia-friendly community in Blandford.

She is offering free dementia awareness training on request and can help groups and businesses set up action plans as their commitment to become dementia friendly. Businesses or groups who are interested in training can contact Anita at blandforddaa@outlook.com.

Lesley Shand was one of three venues for a series of seminars hosted by Douch family funeral directors attended by more than 120 people, business representatives and health professionals, who heard experts address the issue of an ageing population in which dementia in all its variants is become more common.

Nick Douch, managing director, said: "Understanding dementia is crucial. We have had all our eight branches 'dementia audited'.”

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August 2019

Records tumble in open gardens event TWENTY-FIVE private gardens in Blandford were opened to the public as part of the town's 12th Hidden Gardens event - and a late addition of the usually open garden at Nelson's Cheese & Ale House made it a record 26.

It was also a record in terms of numbers visiting and the amount of money raised for local causes, with over £3,021 collected from 325 paying visitors for more than two dozen local and national beneficiaries.

Organiser David Rose, on behalf of Blandford Stour Rotary, thanked all those who sponsored, helped and opened their gardens on the day, and particularly John and Lexi Cook in Bryanston Street, the only garden to have opened every year.

He said: "A number of people from the local villages were visiting and one couple, who had always wanted to visit Blandford, planned their holiday around the event."

Mr Rose has organised the annu-

al event since it started 12 years ago as part of the Clean Up Blandford Campaign, but is having to stand down due to work commitments next year. He has appealed for anyone prepared to take on the role, with his assistance, to get in touch on 07951 769832 or by email to endellion@hotmail.co.uk • The previous weekend the weather was not so kind to those in Pimperne for their open gardens, but 181 people attended over the two days and were able to enjoy 13 gardens open. At the village hall there were homemade cakes, teas, a plant stall and tombola, together with an exhibition by Pimperne Camera Club.

It raised a grand total of £1,525.84, and organiser Jackie Vacher said: "A big thankyou to all who opened their gardens, to the tea ladies, the doorman and to all who gave donations, cakes and tombola prizes or helped me in any way."

Wahida Modak and Stuart Bellingham with his mother Sheila Bellingham in their garden at Chapel Gardens, adjacent to St Leonard's Chapel, where flint matching that in the chapel walls has been excavated from the garden and used to build a retaining wall.

Plans hit opposition TWO planning applications which will impact on the amount of ground floor retail space in Blandford town centre have been opposed by town councillors.

The first is a proposal to change the use to residential of offices on the first floor at 1 Market Place, on grounds that there would no longer be any storage capacity for the small retail unit below.

The second was the application by Hall & Woodhouse to convert the long vacant ground floor of the former Three Choughs pub in West Street to residential, on grounds that it would remove the A4 usage in the town centre, contrary to the Blandford+ Neighbourhood Plan.

They also object on grounds of overdevelopment to proposals for a dwelling in the garden of 10 Stevens Close which would need access from the already congested Angus Close.

Expert’s silver service THERE was a good response when Sussex antiques expert Henry Nicholls & Son held an antiques valuation day in Blandford Corn Exchange.

But Mr Nicholls, well-known for appearances on ITV's Dickinson's Real Deal and other shows, reported that a number of people had been in touch to say they couldn't make it that day, so a further date may be booked.

The couple pictured with Mr Nicholls, left, brought along some silver plate dishes and a selection of silver tableware, including a set of art deco items which caught the expert's eye as having potential for resale.

16

The View from the Hill

by George Hosford More from George on viewfromthehill.org.uk

T

HIS crop of spring barley (above) was sown before March 29 when we were supposed to have left the EU. For many years the majority of malting barley crops like this, grown all across the chalk soils of the south of England, have been exported to Europe to be made into popular European lagers.

The marketing of last year's crop was upset by imminent EU exit at the end of March, and the threat of tariffs on sales into Europe after that date. When EU exit was extended to October 31, the timing couldn't have been much worse for this year's new crop. The main period of barley export runs from October to June, and the threat of tariffs now hangs over the whole mar-

keting season.

These lambs (right), and the other 150 on the farm, will be fit for market in February and March next year. Similar tariff rules apply to sheep meat as those to barley, and many other farm products. Traditionally much UK lamb is exported to France, but we will be frozen out of this market too, after October 31 if we leave without sensible transitional arrangements.

The whole nonsense about our government's failure to achieve even a transitional arrangement with the EU clearly demonstrates that exiting the EU was always going to be extremely difficult. Events have proved this to be the case.

I will revert to gentler topics.

The combine is serviced, cleaned and raring to go.

The grain stores have been cleaned and disinfected, the grain trailers likewise. All we need now is some ripe winter barley and continuing fine weather. Close inspection at the end of last week showed that the straw was still not properly ripe, and that the weekend could be used entirely for recreation.

We will have another look on Monday.

June was a fascinating month.

There were a number of stimulating meetings and events to attend at a time of year when farmers venture off their own farms to look at crop trials, demonstrations, and other people's farms.

A farm walk at Launceston Farm was a fine example; we loaded into trailers and had a tour around to look at organic herbal leys grazed by very handsome suckler cows with their calves.

The threat of tariffs hangs over the marketing of these lambs.

August 2019 other species such as vetch, sainfoin, chicory and plantain. This kind of pasture provides a more varied diet for the animals, and the greater diversity of root structures in the soil are said to be better for encouraging healthy soils.

There are many techniques like this which conventional farmers might borrow from the organic sector, especially in the area of creating healthier soils.

Another interesting visit last month was to the anaerobic digester at Poundbury, which uses maize and rye grown on local farms to produce gas which is pumped directly into the gas mains. It provides the entire gas needs for around 6,000 homes all year round, and as many as 60,000 in summer time.

Up to 2,000 acres of crops are processed by the digester, producing an entirely renewable energy source from crops which fix carbon from the atmosphere during the growing season, only to release it again when the gas is burnt.

They have recently begun to bag and sell a high-quality soil improver, which is the digestate left over after the gas has been harnessed, increasingly popular as a replacement for peat based soil improvers. Many farmers are also keen to buy this product for their fields.

We also looked at compost heaps cooking the manure for next season's crops and saw wheat and oat crops which have been sown and then hoed by the same machine, guided by very high accuracy GPS. The crops were in ear and had been hoed that very week. I was staggered by the accuracy of the system nearly all of the crop was still standing, and there were few weeds left visible.

One problem that scared me somewhat though was how the hoe had hooked up a lot of stones, which could pose a bit of a problem at combining time.

The stubble will have to be left very long to avoid the stones, and let's hope the crop doesn't get flattened by the weather.

Our host was very honest about the pros and cons of the system, which enables him to farm without chemical weedkillers, which he cannot use, being organic.

Herbal leys are pastures which, in addition This year's poppies flowered in mostly dry weather to grass and clover, during June. The capsules are now swelling nicely, include a number of hopefully full of seed.

17

August 2019

Helen Baggott’s postcards past

David Caddy at Stur festival

WRITER and researcher Helen Baggott has published a book that reveals the true stories behind more than 100 postcards sent during the early years of the 20th century.

The postcards included in Posted in the Past were sent from all around the world to addresses in this country - some even having connections with Blandford and Dorset.

Helen, who lives in Sturminster Newton, used genealogy resources to research the recipients of the cards and found some surprising stories. "When I began each postcard's research, I never knew where I'd be taken.

King Edward VII's doctor, the man who helped prepare Kitchener's last meal and a 10year-old servant girl in Bath all had a story to share and it was thrilling to research each one."

The book is available from a number of local outlets, online.

For details email Helenbaggott99@gmail.com.

LOCAL poet David Caddy was among many eminent writers who gave a reading at the Sturminster Newton Literary Festival.

He read from several of his books, including So Here We Are and The Bunny Poems (Shearsman Books) as well as new poems which highlighted the characters and landscape of the Sturminster Newton area.

It was something of a homecoming for the writer who now lives in Stourpaine. He talked about the impact of his early education in Sturminster, paying tribute to Mr Clark and Mr Moody, as well as the late artist and musician, Paul Hart. The audience were treated to stories from Sturminster's past in David's usual animated way.

He has edited the celebrated international literary journal, Tears in the Fence since 1984, and has been honoured by the British Council and Arts Council for his work.

Tears in the Fence is one of the most prestigious literary journals in Europe, and David is known for his encyclopaedic knowledge of poetry and literary history, as

Helen Baggott.

A BOOK signing at Beatons Tea Rooms and Book Shop in Blandford featured The Dorset Chronicles series of Dorsetbased author Chris Oswald (above) who writes historical fiction and alternative history.

The first in the series, which brings fictional characters into real historical events, allowing them to develop and mature as they react to the momentous times they face, was released in April, and is based in Dorset in the late 17th century, featuring local towns and places including Blandford and Winterborne Stickland.

Book one, A New Lease on Freedom, introduces the families amidst all the intrigue of the Monmouth Rebellion. Monmouth brings chaos to the West Country, giving scope for those less principled to thrive.

Book two, It Takes a Rogue, deals with the landing of William of Orange at Brixham. Raging jealousy, fear and despair leads to corruption and underhand dealings. But there is also generosity giving rise to hope.

The story continues in A Simple Mistake, which was due out in July, and describes Ireland overwhelmed by forces loyal to James Stuart in 1689, when at home in Dorset, those making a fortune out of Ireland are determined to bring destruction to their rivals.

For more information see chrisoswaldbooks.com.

Literary line-up grows CONFIRMED events for Blandford's first Literary Festival in November now include another visit by Gerald Dickens with his own adaptation of his great, great grandfather Charles Dickens's classic tale A Christmas Carol on Friday November 22 in the Corn Exchange.

Others are presentations on The Publishing Journey and where inspiration comes from with Gail Aldwin, author of The String Games, by Hilary Townsend, author of Silk Hay, on her fight for architectural heritage, and by Gerald Killingworth on his new book The Dead World of Lanthorne Ghules.

Also planned are afternoon tea with Penrose Halson, author of Marriages are made in Bond Street, an Italian evening with Rosanna Ley, author of The Lemon Tree, a literary lunch, an evening of words, workshops, a book fair and creative flow yoga and lunch.

For further information see Blandford-Literary-Festival on Facebook or email blandfordliteraryfestival@gmail.com.

Book news

A reading of Tears in the Fence by David Caddy was a big hit at the Festival. well as the wit and wisdom of his writing.

He works as a book editor, literary mentor, runs a monthly poetry workshop at the White Horse Inn, Stourpaine, and is chair of the North Dorset Railway at Shillingstone station.

18

August 2019

Official thumbs up for woodland volunteers

Cheque point: Blanchards Bailey principal Paul Dunlop, left, and trainee legal assistant Leah-Mae Mansfield, new chair of the firm's charity and social committee, present the firm's fundraising cheque to Sustainable Dorset chairman Andrew Barker and Pam Rosling.

Law firm puts the case for a greener future LAW firm Blanchards Bailey was so inspired during a year spent fundraising for a county sustainability charity that it has made 'green' changes to its own offices, and staff have made similar changes at home.

A total of £2,000 was raised for non-profit organisation Sustainable Dorset through a series of events staged by colleagues in their spare time.

The 80-strong law firm has been reducing its carbon footprint and switching to local suppliers at its offices in Blandford, Poundbury, Shaftesbury and Weymouth, including using Craig's Farm Dairy, based near Weymouth, to deliver milk to their offices.

The Legal 500 firm is now on course to become one of the greenest as well as one of the top laws firms in the UK. Sustainable Dorset aims to raise awareness and increase interest and involvement in sustainability, such as local food systems, renewable energy and low-carbon travel.

Blanchards Bailey senior associate Emma Needham, who headed the firm's charity and social committee, said: "We have been really impressed with the work that Sustainable Dorset is doing, and helping them raise their profile as well as providing muchneeded funds was a pleasure.

"It has given all the team the inspiration to live and work a lit-

tle bit greener and really make a difference."

The main fundraising event of the year was the fun-packed annual Rollapalooza static bike race night at Bryanston School, plus bingo, quiz and skittles evenings.

Sustainable Dorset chairman Andrew Barker said: "We are immensely grateful for the support of Blanchards Bailey and delighted that they and their staff have also made lifestyle changes themselves after becoming more aware of our principles and the need for everyone to act in a sustainable way."

Sustainable Dorset is part of the Third Sector Infrastructure of Dorset carrying out community projects in partnership with other charities and organisations, such as Springhead Trust, Dorset Community Action and Dorset Council, promoting many grass roots projects and initiatives including Transition Towns, Repair Cafés, Win on Waste, and the Refill Scheme.

Blanchards Bailey has also announced the two charities it will be supporting next year, following nominations by staff to the firm's charity and social committee, will be Longmead Community Farm at Milborne St Andrew and Dorchester Youth Theatre.

FOLLOWING Dorset Council's declaration of a climate emergency and agreement on a new environmental approach, Blandford town councillors have given their support and agreed to set up a working group to draw up actions to address the issue. Ten of the 15 councillors present at their June meeting put their names forward to be part of the group.

VOLUNTEERS with the Blandford Environmental Trust (BET) at Angus Wood were pleased to welcome Sarah Stebbing from the Woodland Trust, which owns the site, following an invitation to inspect the wood and discuss any woodland management issues.

She was pleased with the way the wood has been maintained for public use and praised the work of the BET volunteers, who for the last ten years have looked after the small area of public access woodland off St Leonard's Avenue.

Also in July a team from the arboriculture department of Kingston Maurward Agricultural College came by invitation to remove a cherry tree over 40 feet high which had been preventing

sunlight and rain from reaching new juvenile native trees planted in the area.

Led by Roland Hughes, the team successfully removed the canopy and reduced the trunk to a manageable height, using power tools normally unavailable to the local volunteers. They cleared the felled branches, logged the wood and stacked it.

The work has opened up an area which will now give the young trees sunlight and room to mature. BET thanked the Kingston Maurward team and is now looking forward to working with them on a woodland survey in the autumn.

Angus Wood is open to the public every day. For more information go to blandfordtown.co.uk/listing/angus-wood.

Sarah Stebbing of the Woodland Trust with BET members Peter Andrews, left, and Jenny Thompson, and right, Charlie Palmer, Kingston Maurward countryside management student.

Festival in the wood ANGUS Wood will be an appropriate venue for a special 'SOS' festival to highlight the vital importance of 'Saving Our Species' from extinction due to modern toxic consumerism.

With growing public interest in biodiversity and sustainability, local campaigners, Sustainable Dorset, and Blandford Environmental Trust have collaborated to organise the Sustainability Fair on Sunday August 18 between 11am and 5.30pm.

An inspirational and fun day for all is promised, at which visitors will be able to enjoy a variety of hot and cold vegan savories, cakes and drinks while enjoying live music or listening to talks and films on combatting biodiversity loss and creating a healthier future for themselves and the planet.

There will be creative activities for children, and a full programme starting at 11.15am with Dorset's conscious living guru Gabriela Lerner on our food choices and the 'World Peace Diet', followed by lunchtime music from 'DirtStew', Dr Martin Price on our world 'Drowning in Plastic', two excellent films: 'WTF: Where's The Fish?' and 'Generation Zapped', a talk by Nigel Spring of Butterfly Conservation on 'Saving our Butterflies and Moths', and finally Dr Graham Lambert's talk 'SOS: Save Our Soils, Save Our Selves!'

Admission is £4 (children under 16 free) with proceeds going to support the registered charities Sustainable Dorset/Dorset Agenda 21 and Blandford Environmental Trust.

For further details call Pam on 01258 818223 or see sustainabledorset.org/events.

19

August 2019

News from the Surgeries Christopher Booker dies at 81 Are you off to university or college for the first time?

Going away from home is always exciting, especially for the first time. There's lots to plan and do. That includes having all the healthcare you may need, in place, before you go.

The NHS Website offers lots of advice for students and it's a great place to look up anything you want to know or may be worried about.

Before you go leave home, here are a few things you can do: 1, Register with a GP - your health centre attached to your college or university may be the most convenient 2, Register with a dentist - find a local NHS dentist as dental problems can't be dealt with by doctors. Not all treatment is free, even under the NHS, but you may be able to apply for help with health costs.

3, Check your vaccinations - contact the GP you're registered with to ask for the Men ACWY vaccine to prevent getting meningitis W disease. You'll be at particularly high risk in the first weeks of term, when you will come into contact with many new people of a similar age.

Also check you have had the full programme of MMR vaccinations (2 doses) to prevent mumps. If you're not sure, ask your GP for a catchup vaccination.

4, Get contraception - even if you don't plan to be sexually active while you're a student, it's good to be prepared!

5, Rest and healthy eating - student life may not be renowned for early nights and healthy eating, but getting enough sleep and eating well (including fruit and veg) will help you stay healthy. You will also have more energy for studying and enjoying student life.

6, If you have a disability - higher education students living in England can apply for Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) if you have a: • disability • long-term health condition • mental health condition • specific learning difficulty, such as dyslexia 7, Be aware of mental health problems - being away from home and the pressures of work can affect your mental health. Talk to someone, they may well be feeling the same. There's also lots of help available - most universities have counselling services. For more serious concerns, see your GP. A MAN was cut free from his car after apparently suffering a medical episode that caused the vehicle to flip onto its side on the A350 near the turning for Durweston, north of Blandford, on the morning of Saturday June 29.

Emergency services worked together to release the man, who was trapped in the grey Honda, and who was taken to hospital with serious injuries.

Police, fire and ambulance services and the air ambulance attended the incident in which no other vehicles were involved.

JOURNALIST, author and satirist Christopher Booker, who died on July 3, aged 81, was the son of John and Margaret Booker, who ran a girls' prep school near Blandford.

He was educated at Shrewsbury public school, where he first met his future collaborators, Richard Ingrams, Willie Rushton and Paul Foot, on Private Eye magazine, of which he became the first editor. He also wrote for The Sunday Telegraph for nearly 60 years.

Man killed in crash A 68-year-old local man was pronounced dead at the scene of a single-vehicle crash on the Wimborne road outside Ashley Wood Golf Club on Wednesday June 26.

The fire service was first at the scene of the collision involving a silver Ford Focus at around 4pm. They informed the police who closed the road between the A354 roundabout and Tarrant Keyneston.

Police Sergeant Craig Tatton of the traffic unit appealed for anyone travelling along the B3082 at the time who saw the collision or the vehicle immediately prior to the incident and had any relevant dashcam footage to contact Dorset Police.

He said: "I would like to thank motorists for their patience during the road closure, which was entirely necessary to allow collision investigators to examine the scene."

20

Oscar, aged four, with Blue - the dog most like his owner - and his sister Lacie-Mae, aged six.

Winning combination COLOUR games and crazy golf were among the attractions at Archbishop Wake Primary School's summer fair.

The school's playing field was filled with stalls, activities and displays by pupils and local community groups, including the Starlight Dancing Academy.

Hundreds enjoyed the event on a very hot day. There were also inflatables, a fun dog show and a grand raffle, in which nearly 50 prizes included vouchers for days out and visits to local attractions.

The total raised towards the extension of the timber trail on the playing field was almost ÂŁ3,500, and the Friends of the school, who organise the annual event, thanked everyone for their support.

August 2019

Renowned conductor thrills students with musical masterclass THE chance to take part in a masterclass with an internationally renowned conductor was an opportunity not to be missed for young musicians from schools across the south.

Sir Mark Elder, the music director of the HallĂŠ Orchestra and former music director of English National Opera, hosted two masterclasses during a return visit to his former school, Bryanston music scholar Amadea Dazeley-Gaist Bryanston, which he with Sir Mark Elder. attended from 1961 to 1966. inquisitive minds and in promoting Pupils from Thomas Hardye emotional awareness as well as School and St Osmund's Middle imagination and creativity," said School in Dorchester, Ringwood Sir Mark.

School, Bournemouth School for Stephen Williams, Bryanston's Girls and Perins School near director of music, said: "Sir Mark's Winchester joined music scholars visit will live long in the memory from Bryanston as Sir Mark shared of everyone he met. His enthusihis passion for music and his expeasm and passion for music is truly rience as one of the world's most infectious and it was a pleasure to respected conductors. see all of the young musicians As well as masterclasses for respond so positively to his woodwind and strings, he hosted warmth and attention to detail. a Q&A session and discussed the "It really was an inspirational career aspirations and opportuniexperience for youngsters aspirties for talented musicians. ing to a fulfilling life and career in His visit to the school concluded the world of music and we are with a special 'Desert Island indebted to Sir Mark for giving so Discs' evening in a packed Sir generously of his time."

Mark Elder Concert Hall, where Building on the success of the he outlined his life story and time masterclasses and the school's at Bryanston and provided a canongoing commitment to the did insight into the music that Richard Ely Trust and the Dorset holds a special place in his heart.

Rural Music School, Bryanston "Musical education for every will be hosting an important music child, regardless of their backeducation conference in the ground or circumstances, has autumn. Teaching staff from mainsuch an important role to play in tained and independent schools the healthy development of young will be attending.

21

August 2019

Big top raises big money

The concert in Durweston village hall.

Opera proves just the ticket!

NOT everyone at Durweston Primary School thought that opera workshops would be a good idea. Fortunately they were proved spectacularly wrong!

Staff and children were transfixed when a soprano, tenor and pianist from Dorset Opera came to work with all the classes for a day. Everyone emerged from their sessions absolutely buzzing and snatches from arias are still being sung around the school and, apparently, at home too.

The workshop day was followed by a performance in the village hall where the children wowed parents and villagers. Following the workshops, some children from the school have been invit-

ed to sing with the company at performances this summer.

Headteacher Nicola Brooke said: "We know that exposure to the arts is great for children but even we were amazed at how positively the children responded. We've had boys begging their parents to buy tickets for the Dorset Opera performances in summer.

"Staff and parents who never thought opera was 'for them' have been inspired to give it a go. Thank you so much to the team from Dorset Opera for opening our eyes and ears." • Children from Durweston School have been getting out and about and making the most of the local area.

Academy status for two primary schools TWO local primary schools converted to become academies and join the Sherborne Area Schools' Trust (SAST) on July 1.

Shillingstone Primary and Okeford Fitzpaine CE Primary one of the smallest schools in the county - have become part of the multi-academy trust, covering North and West Dorset and South Somerset.

It works in collaboration with the headteachers and Trust leaders to provide improvement, support and background services, including finance, HR, estates, compliance and IT to member schools to raise standards and to deliver high-quality education.

Lizzie Peters, headteacher at Okeford Fitzpaine, said: "We are all really excited about joining SAST and working closely with Shillingstone Primary School. As a small rural school, the opportunities for working with other schools is something that we relish. SAST and the North Dorset Teaching School Alliance have been a great support over the past year."

Jane Whitehouse-Sharpe, headteacher of Shillingstone Primary, said: "We are thrilled to be joining SAST and working with other schools in our area who have the same drive and ambition as us to continue to provide the very best education for all our children, share best practice and provide our staff with excellent training opportunities."

Steve Hillier, CEO of SAST said: "SAST has seen a lot of growth over the last year. Many schools in rural areas can feel rather isolated, but by joining SAST they benefit from high-level support and expertise, training opportunities, and from coming together with colleagues from other schools. If any schools are interested in finding out more about joining a multi-academy trust we are always happy to talk to them."

The Trust now has 12 schools, including ten primary schools and two secondary schools, as well as three nursery settings, with a total of 3,170 students and more than 550 staff.

First it was the turn of year 6, who went to PGL at Osmington.

Dragon boating, zip wire, low ropes, Jacob's ladder, buggy building and archery kept everyone busy.

Then the year 4s went to Hooke Court to learn about animal populations and habitats, how to map the bed and measure the flow of a river and how to bridge the moat. Their trip to the lifeboat station at Lyme Regis coincided with torrential rain.

While they were away, the year 2s and 3s visited Traveller's Rest Farm. There were plants to walk through, lambs to feed and tractors to look at and ride on.

HAPPY'S Circus came to Milldown CE Academy in Blandford for the biggest event ever staged at the school, with more than 600 people attending, including the children who had a great time clapping and cheering along all evening.

The professional touring circus performs, with no animals, in an enormous state-ofthe-art, colourful, all-weather big top tent, featuring international artists including acrobats, aerialists, speciality acts, magic and the hugely popular Happy Circus clowns.

Their visit was organised by the Friends of Milldown CE Academy and raised over ÂŁ2,000 which will be spent on refurbishing the reflective garden in the school playground to make it a space that the children can access all year round.

22

August 2019

BTEC work earns top title for school MILTON Abbey School has been named BTEC School of the Year at a national award ceremony in recognition of its expertise in delivering a wide array of BTEC courses alongside A-levels and GCSEs. It also received silver awards for Teacher of the Year Elisabeth Carr, director of land-based studies, and creative media Student of the Year Darius Bamberg, plus bronze awards for Joe Sturdy as business & enterprise Student of the Year and Harry Chaytor-Norris in the original music composition and performance for BTEC Showstopper Challenge.

The awards are run by Pearson, the UK's largest awarding body for academic and vocational qualifications, and consider the range and quality of BTECs offered by schools across the country.

Judith Fremont-Barnes, head of Milton Abbey, said: "It is a wonderful recognition of Milton Abbey's commitment to excellence in and beyond the classroom and reflects the hard work and creativity of our fantastic students across a range of 14 relevant, practical and innovative BTEC courses."

She said the independent school placed a high priority on employability, and their BTEC courses ensured students were ready for the worlds of work and higher education. "Now in our twelfth year of offering BTECs, we love the initiative, communication skills, teamwork and problem-solving aspects promoted by the courses."

Milton Abbey runs an innovative entrepreneur in residence scheme, with lectures and one-to-one business mentoring from household names. This year the school hosted Annoushka Ducas, the jewellery designer who co-founded Links of London.

The scheme's competitive element, allowing students to pitch for start-up funding to help make their ideas a reality, was this year won

by Bronze Award winner Joe Sturdy, who will use the funding to expand and run his business converting mountain bikes to electric bikes alongside studying at university.

Trundlers seen off BLANDFORD Bowling Club was again pleased to host the Timber Trundlers for a friendly match.

It followed a previous visit in 2018 by the Trundlers, who have no home green and play about 20 away matches each season. Bowlers are mainly from clubs in Dorset and Hampshire.

Visitors' captain Steve Bowering and his team were welcomed by Blandford President, Jan Cornick. The match comprised six mixed triples and was played on one of the hottest days of the year.

It was clear that the outcome was going to be close. By full time Blandford were down on 4 of the 6 rinks, all of which were close, but due to an outstanding performance by the home team's top rink the final result was a home win by 102 to 87. Thus the victory of 2018 was repeated.

Dorset Conquest organisers Monica and Rupert Tory with the cheque for £1,500 raised for Weldmar.

Conquest events net cash for hospice THE inaugural Dorset Conquest 10k and half-marathon were held at East Farm, Winterborne Whitechurch.

An evening party, with live music from Silk Bullets and Rebuked, along with a grand draw, helped to raise £1,500 for Weldmar Hospicecare.

The organisers, Monica and Rupert Tory, have thanked all those who attended and the local businesses who generously donated prizes for the draw. They included Robert Walford's Stable, Langham's Vineyard, Dorset Brewing Company, East Farm Shop, the Milton Arms Whitechurch, the White Horse Stourpaine, Moores Biscuits, Volkswagen Dorchester, Tyrells

Crisps, local author Brian Turner, Conyers Blandford, the Dorset Game Larder, Bartletts Country Store, Barford Farmhouse Ice Cream, Morrisons Blandford and Dorset Lamb.

A Farm Run, a 5k family friendly run around the farm, on July 20 will be followed by the next one at 5pm on Saturday August 17.

Farm Run entries are taken on the day from 4pm and cost £5 per person, with a family discount. Runners can enjoy a preliminary cream tea and afterwards the summer evening sun at the Finishing Post bar.

Entries for next year's Dorset Conquest races will open soon.

For more details see www.farmrun.net.

23

August 2019

Mum’s delight as Charlie leads the host Valley home ONE of the most celebrated placings of the day at this year's Tarrant Valley 10k (TV10) was of Charlie Forbes, aged 22, son of Christine Forbes, who had for the first time taken on the role of race organiser.

Charlie was the first Tarrant Valley runner home in seventh place in a time of 38 minutes and one second.

More than 240 runners completed the race, which started and finished at the Langton Arms in Tarrant Monkton, in good weather conditions.

There were stalls representing the beneficiaries of the charity Charlie Forbes and his mum Christine at the fundraising event, the Tarrant Valley 10k.

Dorset Blind Association and Naomi House Children's club team with the four bestHospice, and refreshments on placed finishers including at least sale for those supporting the runone lady was won by Poole AC. ners.

In the children's one-mile race, Lee Dempster of Lytchett Manor Leo Riggs, aged 12, was the Striders was the winner of the winner, with Ben Ives, aged 11, men's race in 34 minutes 40 secsecond and Freddie Clark, aged onds, with Alexander Goulding 10, third.

(Bournemouth AC) and Kim Little Mrs Forbes thanked everyone (unattached) second and third. who supported the event, whose sponsors included Blanchards First lady in 31st place overall Bailey, Launceston Farm and the was Gemma Russhard (unatSunrise Service & MoT Centre, tached) in 42 minutes 3 seconds, for enabling an invaluable finanwith second Lynda Faulkner cial contribution to be made to (Dorset Doddlers) and third the race's beneficiaries.

Kathryn Robson (Poole AC).

For more detailed results, see The TV10 2019 Team Trophy, tarrantvalley10.webs.com. awarded to the UKA-affiliated

The start of the Tarrant Valley 10k, in which the eventual winner Lee Dempster, number 222, is pictured centre.

Shunters through to the national finals THE Shunters skittles team have qualified for the grand finals of the British Skittles Championships in Torquay in September.

The Blandford team won in Weymouth, at home against a side from Exeter, and then travelled to Chard to play a game they knew would see them qualify if they won.

The Chard league threw up several rules that the Shunters had not seen before. Having to throw into a pitch plate was one of the main differences, and also instead of throwing three balls at a time each player threw six.

Even though it was a strange format the Shunters started brightly and gained an early lead on the deceptively long alley. The middle hands, however, were poor and they went into the last

throws of the game seven pins down.

The Chard team, King Con Pins, set the Shunters a target of 110 pins to win. Thanks to an early spare by Darren Langdown, it looked as though they would confidently reach this target. It still, however, got down to the last man, Russell Trowbridge, to throw and win the game.

Needing 14 to win he hit a spare 13 in his first three balls, taking all the pressure off and meaning he only needed one from his second three balls to the win game, which he did with ease.

The victory meant, even with three games still to play, the Shunters will be going to the championships - a brilliant achievement by the team who play in the Sturminster Newton Skittles League.

24 Thursday August 1: Treehouse Theatre Storybox workshop (ages 2 to 8), Exchange, Sturminster Newton, 11am to noon, bookings artsreach.co.uk Square Dancing, Spetisbury village hall, 4 to 6pm (and every Thursday) Miracle Theatre: A Perfect World, Springhead Gardens, Fontmell Magna, 7pm, details 01747 811853 or artsreach.co.uk Friday August 2: Mayor's coffee morning supporting the Blandford Community Kitchen, 10am to 12 noon, Greyhound Inn, Greyhounds Yard, Blandford First Friday Social in the Museum Garden 5pm-8pm; Rena Gardiner Exhibition in the Museum continues throughout August Friday to Tuesday August 2 to 6: The Dorset Arts & Crafts Summer Exhibition, The Purbeck School, Worgret Road, Wareham BH20 4PF, 10am to 5pm (4pm Tuesday August 6) Saturday August 3: Blandford Repair Café, Royal British Legion, Church Lane, 12.30 to 3pm, bring your broken items for recycling or repair by volunteers, see Blandford Repair Café on Facebook Tarrant Monkton and Launceston Flower & Produce Show, village hall, 3pm Tarrant Valley Players Fun Day from 2.30pm and Quiz Night, 7pm, Tarrant Keyneston village hall Sunday August 4: The Art Room - Informal art session, 11am to 1pm, The Kings Arms, Blandford, details blandfordartsociety.weebly.com Dorset Ramblers meet Stourpaine Village Hall car park 10.15 am for 7.5-mile walk over Hod and Hambledon hills, lunch stop at The Cricketers, Shroton Blandford Little People launch, Market Place, Blandford, 12.30pm Pimperne Pre-School Summer Fair, Pimperne sports pavilion, 10.30am to 3.30pm, stalls, Mr Merlin, Performing Arts Theatre Academy Sunday August 4 (and 11, 18, 25): Baffling Blandford bamboozling walks start Crown Hotel 4pm, details artoftheimpossible.com/magic or 01258 454232 Wednesday August 7: Blandford Bereavement Group meets Blandford Parish Centre, 11am to 12.30pm, details 01258 453425 Is It Wheely Wednesday, cycle ride from Shillingstone Station on the North Dorset Trailway, details

What’s on this month Entries in this diary are free of charge. If you have an event you would like included, send details to Nicci Brown, 01258 459346 or email events@forumfocus.co.uk. This page is available and regularly updated on our website at www.forumfocus.co.uk. Readers are advised to check with event organisers before attending.

THE Artsreach summer programme of school holiday activities started on July 26 and includes a number of events at The Exchange in Sturminster Newton and at Milborne St Andrew village hall.

Parents and children can take part in an interactive session of making music, dressing up, singing songs and creating stories together as Treehouse Theatre return with Storybox workshops (pictured above) for 2- to 8-year-olds with the Gingerbread Man at the Exchange on August 1 and The Hare and the Tortoise at Milborne St Andrew on August 28 from 11am to noon.

There is also a fun session of baking bread, singing songs and doing arts and crafts together at a workshop starting at 10am before enjoying a puppet show with Fiddlesticks at Milborne St Andrew on Friday August 30.

The rest of the workshops are at Sturminster Newton, where on Friday, August 9, Bec Freiesleben will be helping youngsters learn the art of stone carving.

Full details can be found in the Artsreach Summer Activities programme available at tourist information centres and libraries or at artsreach.co.uk.

01258 860157 Wednesday & Thursday August 7 and 8: Blandford Community Kitchen, Parish Centre, The Tabernacle, from 12 noon Thursday August 8: Forum Cancer Support Group, Woodhouse Garden Pavilion 2 to 4pm (every 2nd Thursday of the month), details 07561 114644 Friday August 9: Blandford Women's Institute Cocktails at Seven! - an evening out at Blandford's very own Cocktail bar, see blandfordeveningwi.com Saturday August 10: Blandford Horticultural Society Summer Show, Tarrant Keyneston village hall, 12 noon, details 01258 452380 Farnham Street Fair DT11 8DE, 12.30-4.30, Morris dancing, ukulele band, poet, decorated church, art display, stalls and games Winterborne Kingston Village Show, Village Hall, DT11 9AZ, 2.30 to 4.45pm. Presentation of cups at 4.15pm and auction.

Admission - 50p, children free.

Refreshments & Raffle. See winterbornekingstonvillagehall.co.uk/ village-show Saturday and Sunday August 10 and 11: Delicious homemade cakes and Dorset clotted cream teas served by local WaterAid supporters, book stall and tombola, 2.30 to 5.30pm, The Old School, Sturminster Marshall, BH21 4BU (opposite the church) Sunday August 11: 'Sustainable and Healthy Homes': illustrated talk by interior designer & ecoretrofit expert Jenny Morisetti, Upper Mill Room, Springhead, Fontmell Magna, from 4pm.

Members of Sustainable Dorset or Springhead £2, non-members £4, details 01258 818223 or meetup.com/Resurgence-Dorset Monday to Saturday 12 to 17 August: Blandford Art Society Open Exhibition 2019, Corn Exchange, Blandford DT11 7AF, 10am to 5pm daily, admission free, details blandfordartsociety.weebly.com Wednesday August 14: Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show, Turnpike Showground, Motcombe

August 2019 Wednesday August 14 and 15: Blandford Community Kitchen, Parish Centre, The Tabernacle from 12 noon Saturday August 17: 72nd Annual Tarrant Gunville Horse Show, Gymkhana and Comic Dog Show, Eastbury Park, Tarrant Gunville DT11 8JQ, from 8.45am, details 01258 830280 Cats Protection Coffee Morning & Stalls, Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion, Blandford, 10am to 12.30pm Iwerne Minster Summer Show from 2pm at the Parish Field.

Fun for all the family with live music, raffle, exhibitions. stalls, vintage cars, refreshments. Free parking, £1 entry (under-16 free) Valley Gardening Club Summer Show, Pamela Hambro Hall, Winterborne Stickland, 2.30 to 4.15pm details sites.google.com/site/vgcdorset or valleygardening@gmail.com Sunday August 18: Town Perimeter Heritage Walk with Blandford & District Civic Society Town Guide, 11am from Durdens Corner (Scrivens), Market Place, details 01258 459346 Sustainability 'Save Our Species' Fair, 11am to 5.30pm, Angus Wood, St Leonards Avenue, Blandford, entry £4 (children under 16 free) in support of Sustainable Dorset and Blandford Environmental Trust Monday August 19: Strictly Come Tea-Dancing, Corn Exchange, Blandford, 2.30pm to 4.30pm, with music from the Soggy Biscuit Dance Band, admission £7.50 per person (£5 for non-dancers) Tuesday August 20: Child Okeford Flower Arranging Club, 'Floral boats', a practical workshop, Child Okeford Village Hall, 2.15pm, details 01258 863775 Thursday to Monday August 22 to 29: Great Dorset Steam Fair Saturday and Sunday August 24 to 25: The Borrowers, Corn Exchange, Blandford, 2pm and 6.30pm Wednesday August 28: Treehouse Theatre Storybox workshop (ages 2 to 8), Milborne St Andrew village hall, 11am to noon, bookings artsreach.co.uk Friday August 30: Free family entertainment with Jamie Jigsaw, Woodhouse Gardens, Blandford, 10am to 11am Fiddlesticks workshop and puppet show, Milborne St Andrew village hall from 10am, bookings artsreach.co.uk Wessex Acoustic Folk, Blandford Royal British Legion Club, Church Lane, 8pm, Mike O'Connor & Barbara Griggs