If you sit down at set of sun And count the acts that you have done, And, counting, find One self-denying deed, one word That eased the heart of him who heard, One glance most kind That fell like sunshine where it went –Then you may count that day well spent
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CONTRIBUTORS
Jane Atkinson
Laurence Belbin
Elisabeth Bletsoe Sherborne Museum
Bob Bowmer & John Gaye Sherborne Literary Society
Richard Bromell ASFAV Charterhouse Auctioneers and Valuers
Mike Burks The Gardens Group
Paula Carnell
Jack Clarke Dorset Wildlife Trust
Rosie Cunningham
Harry Durston Mogers Drewett
Barbara Elsmore
James Flynn Milborne Port Computers
Simon Ford
Jan Garner Sherborne Scribblers
Craig Hardaker Communifit
Dawn Hart YogaSherborne
Andy Hastie Yeovil Cinematheque
Giles Henschel Olives Et Al
Sarah Hitch The Sanctuary Beauty Rooms
Jules Horrell Horrell & Horrell
James Hull The Story Pig
Annabelle Hunt Bridport Timber and Flooring
Lucy Lewis Dorset Mind Paul Maskell The Beat and Track
Tom Matkevich The Green Restaurant
Sandra Miller BSc, MSc, BCNH Dip, FDN-P Wholistic Health
Gillian Nash
Mark Newton-Clarke
MA VetMB PhD MRCVS Newton Clarke Veterinary Surgeons
Alanda Phillips Bottle House Crafts
Hilary Phillips Hanford School
Alastair Poulain Sherborne Prep
Hazel Roadnight Winstone’s Books
Jonathan Salisbury
Sacred Heart & St Aldhelms Catholic Church
Mark Salter CFP Fort Financial Planning
Val Stones
John Walsh Friars Moor Livestock Health
Joanna Weinberg Teals
Alison Weir Good Company Bruton
Natalia Lebedinskaia/Shutterstock
All-in from Yeovil Audi
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All-in from Audi offers an average saving of £1,039.85* over 2 years compared to buying these products separately, and what’s more, you can pay in one upfront payment or easy monthly instalments.
All-in from Audi is available for vehicles 3-6 years old with engines 2.0l and under, and mileage under 100,000 at point of activation.
ARTIST AT WORK
in association with
No. 73: Seableed by Jane Atkinson, lace artist
Linen, 59 x 43 cm
Inever set out to spend my life making bobbin lace but arriving in Dorset gave me the chance to learn … and I was hit over the head by it. The first time I handled bobbins, I felt I saw stars; the quest then became to find a use that suited the times.
Most people were profoundly unimpressed by traditional lace so I taught myself to design, gradually scaling mine up to increase the impact and exploit coloured weaving thread, commissioned bespoke equipment, wrote books about it and taught and exhibited across the world – including Australia and the USA – and around the EU.
For inspiration, I drew on my landscape around Christchurch Harbour, learning how natural patterns
demonstrated the impact of climate breakdown. The Arts Council backed an exhibition to which I also invited international guests. I now teach online with some of these as The Adventurous Lacemakers via Patreon, an unlikely gift of the pandemic.
Showing with groups such as Making Dorset is a vital part of assessing whether I fit the Zeitgeist. TAL mentors exhibited as guests of honour at the first World Lace Festival in Slovakia this summer; my piece was 11ft wide.
The independent Hollywood director Alexander Payne has long been appreciated at Cinematheque. In 2004 we showed his Sideways – a wine-tasting road trip starring the wonderful Paul Giamatti, who also happens to be the lead in his latest offering, The Holdovers (2023), which we screen on 11th December as our Christmas film. Payne is known for his satirical depictions of American society, setting many of his films in and around Omaha, his hometown. Particularly good and another former Cinematheque success is Nebraska (2013), a comedy/ drama, black and white road film, starring Bruce Dern as Woody, an elderly Montana man walking to Nebraska to collect his one million dollar prize from a scam sweepstake he believes he has won. Eventually, his son agrees to drive him so that he can spend some time with his difficult father but also to give his mother, played by the wonderful stage actress June
Squibb, a break. Along the way, they meet many in their dysfunctional family. Nominated for numerous awards, Nebraska is an affectionate portrait of the small-town Midwest, often hilarious but also undeniably sad.
The Holdovers is set in an elite Massachusetts boarding school, Barton Academy, at the end of 1970. As the school breaks up for Christmas, a few students have to remain over the holidays for family reasons and the teacher assigned to look after these ‘holdovers’ is irascible Paul Hunham (Giamatti), unpopular with both staff and students alike. Included amongst those staying on are the head cook, Mary, and a headstrong student, Angus, who quickly clashes with Professor Hunham. These three rather disparate people fill the screen, eventually realising a satisfying mutual sympathy. This is nostalgic, funny and moving cinema, excellently acted, with a strong sense of 70s American cinema – a golden era. To amplify this, the wonderful soundtrack is evocative of that time, including
The Allman Brothers, Badfinger, Chet Baker, Labi Siffre and Cat Stevens. A treat.
If, like me, you are a Paul Giamatti fan, two further films to search out are firstly American Splendor (2003) (‘An hilarious slice of American indie cool’ Uncut). In it, he grinds out a living as a hospital filing clerk by day but with legendary illustrator Robert Crumb, he produces a comic book in his spare time- the American Splendor of the film title. It incredibly is a huge success, he becomes a celebrity and finds true love! This acutely funny film is only bettered by Tom McCarthy’s Win Win (2011), again a hit at Cinematheque and my personal favourite. Giamatti plays a long-suffering lawyer who is also a not-very-successful high school wrestling coach. An encounter with a teenage runaway, who just happens to be a champion wrestler, changes his luck for the better...or does it? (‘Expertly acted, laugh out loud funny’ Wall Street Journal). All films
mentioned I can heartily recommend.
If you fancy a Christmas treat then, come to The Holdovers at the Swan Theatre on 11th December. We will be holding a social gathering with a free drink and nibbles in the foyer beforehand, so come, meet our friendly members and see what we offer. All details are on the website below.
Finally, we wish a Merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year for all.
cinematheque.org.uk swan-theatre.co.uk
Wednesday 11th December 7.30pm
The Holdovers (15) 2023
Cinematheque, Swan Theatre, 138 Park St, Yeovil BA20 1QT
Members £1, guests £5
The Holdovers (2023)
CONFESSIONS OF A THEATRE ADDICT
Rosie Cunningham
David Tennant and Cush Jumbo are pulling in audiences in droves with their outstanding performance in Macbeth at the Harold Pinter Theatre, directed by Max Webster. Webster is celebrated for the touch of theatrical magic he brings to productions such as Life of Pi, which won five Olivier awards, The Importance of Being Earnest, currently on at the National, and Henry V, recently at the Donmar. In Macbeth, every member of the audience wears a set of headphones throughout, the sound catapulting from ear to ear together and separately, from the three witches’ eerie prophetic whispers, physically absent from the stage, to unsettling winds, muttered words and snatches of music, heightening the horror of the psychological drama unfolding on the stage and providing an intimate immersive experience. It was slightly distracting to begin with, as I slipped off the headphones to see if the actors were miming on stage or speaking and had to look more than once behind me to see if someone was there but once you get used to them, the experience is extraordinary. The stage design, by the exceptionally talented Rosanna Vize, is modern and monochrome, with a glass wall sub-dividing the front and back, behind which a Celtic band can be seen playing
David Tennant and Cush Jumbo in Macbeth
Image: Marc Brenner
and singing. Webster has strived to pull the audience closer to the action, with dramatic fight scenes, acts of brutality and dialogue performed directly to the audience so that every blow and knife thrust was felt keenly by all. In what was otherwise a chilling display of Macbeth’s ambition, greed and nonchalance, Jatinder Singh Randhawa’s Porter performance at what might have been the interval was comic, enjoyable and contemporary, addressing the audience directly with his droll observations and pointed remarks. Weird but very amusing and a stark contrast to the themes of the play. On until 14th December, there may be a single ticket available, which should be grabbed without delay.
Oedipus at Wyndham’s Theatre, starring Mark Strong and Lesley Manville, is also dominating the West End. This powerful modern remake, created by Robert Icke, After Sophocles, superbly demonstrates the huge talents of two of our finest actors. The audience is drawn into this harrowing tale, foretold to Oedipus in a prophecy that he would kill his father and marry his mother, and by the end of the play, it was impossible not to be personally affected by the horror, anguish and torment. As the truth dawns on Oedipus and Jocasta, we witness Jocasta reliving giving birth to Oedipus, as he symbolically retracts from a grown man into a foetus. Strong commands the stage, outwardly a confident senior statesman who is felled by the news that he is not who he thinks he is and his quest for answers brings a complete breakdown of everything he holds dear. Powerful stuff. On until 4th January 2025, take tissues with you. If you haven’t been to see the Monet and London. Views of the Thames exhibition at The Courtauld until 19th January 2025, you are missing something quite extraordinary. Claude Monet painted three views of London, Charing Cross Bridge, Waterloo Bridge and the Houses of Parliament, many times and at different times of the day from his balcony at The Savoy from 1899 to 1901. He was fascinated by the swirling fog, latterly renamed smog, and the light-play on the pollution emanating from the factories across on the south bank of the Thames. This is the first time that all the paintings have been displayed together in London, and I can guarantee that the impact of seeing them all together is immense.
Welcome to Symondsbury Estate, set in the beautiful Dorset countryside just a stone’s throw from the Jurassic Coast. Join us for lunch. Browse our shops. Visit the gallery. Explore our fabulous walks and bike trails. Relax and unwind in our holiday accommodation. Celebrate your wedding day...
Upcoming Events & Workshops
Wreath Making Workshops with Emma Dixon - Tuesday 10th & Wednesday 11th December
Wine and Cheese Night - Thursday 12th December Party In The Barn - Saturday 14th December
The wonderment of the season sweeps across our Somerset estate as creatives sprinkle their festive magic. Farm Shops are transformed into a treasure trove of gifts and treats; chefs, bakers and drinks makers go all in on the flavours of the season; and the heady scent of spiced mulled cyder fills the air. Add a Christmas Showcase Weekend, visits to St Nicholas and a feel-good programme of festive workshops, and now’s the time to join us with a Membership as we celebrate the most magical time of the year!
Enchanted Christmas Quest – From 1 December
Christmas Showcase Weekend – 7 - 8 December
Meet St Nicholas – 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22 December
Visit our website to discover more about Newt Membership. Free entry for children (0-16 yrs) when accompanied by an adult member.
Stay . Visit . Shop
AN ARTIST’S VIEW
Laurence Belbin
Iam always ready to take the opportunity when it presents itself to draw somewhere or something a little different. One such occasion was when I called in on Higher Oborne Farm just south of Poyntington. I was there to buy a bag of newly lifted potatoes along with some lovely cheddar cheese and eggs, sold only steps away from where they are laid, in their traditional farm shop. I say traditional because it hasn’t succumbed like so many others that start off small and turn into expensive ‘supermarkets’ with added
attractions like play areas and coffee shops. You arrive and are welcomed most often by the farmer in wellies, having been working around the yard and had heard you turn up. I had a chat about how the spuds were lifted and asked if it was possible for me to see the operation in action so was invited to join them one morning.
I knew it was done by machine but didn’t know what that actually looked like – an amazing piece of kit. Two tractors, one pulling the lifter and another
with a trailer running alongside to collect the sorted crop, is what I was faced with. The first stage of sorting was done as they went along, taking out small or damaged potatoes – any not up to the high standard they require. This is a real family affair –dad, son and daughter working alongside each other chatting on and off whilst still concentrating on the job. I walked parallel, stumbling over the furrows whilst drawing all the time! Once I got used to the pattern of things, it was easier. I did quite a few pencil sketches using my trusty HB, all rather shaky. I worked quickly and managed a few pen drawings with no pre-pencil work. Later on, I climbed aboard and did a few more, capturing the sorting end close to. Several trailers were filled with fresh potatoes when I felt I’d gathered all I needed, drawing-wise, in the field. Back at the farm and in the shop, I went into the barn where they are stored. Here, I had a chair to sit on and a motion-free experience while I drew what was left of the first batch dug a few days ago. The farmer’s wife was looking out to the shop, amongst other tasks, and brought me out a cup of tea. This is where the second stage of sorting occurs. It is
also where they are bagged up in various weights to suit most customers. When the trailers come in from the field the crop is unloaded and stored up against walls made of straw bales to protect them from the frost, earth left on and kept in complete darkness.
I roughed out with a pencil then worked with the pen. It was more relaxed and I could take more time. The whole experience was one of enjoyment and an eye opener, being with nice people who believe passionately about what they do, focused on producing and selling good food from their own farm and from local suppliers. Long may it continue.
I can also rest assured that I have a plentiful supply of potatoes for roasting this Christmas.
laurencebelbin.com
My Road To Sandford Orcas by Laurence Belbin is available (priced £10) from Laurence’s studio at Westbury Hall, Westbury, Sherborne DT9 3EN and Sherborne Antiques Market, 71 Cheap Street, Sherborne DT9 3BA. Copies can also be ordered for delivery by post. Please contact threepigeonspress@gmail.com
COUNTER CULTURE
Paul Maskell, The Beat and Track
No. 35: The Christmas Number One and Raging Against the Machine
Until 1973, the Christmas number-one spot was as coveted as the number-one spot at any other time of the year. It was the introduction of the Christmas Song by the likes of Slade and Wizzard that made the number one spot a major prize over the Christmas period.
In 1973, it was indeed Slade that made number one with the single Merry Xmas Everybody, just beating Roy Wood’s Wizzard and their song I Wish it Could Be Christmas Every Day. The fight for the Christmas
number one spot has provided some interesting statistics over the years. Technically, the first Christmas number one was Here in My Heart by Al Martino, which was also the chart’s first-ever number one. The Beatles had four Christmas number ones and in 1963 and 1967 had both the number one and number two singles. Paul McCartney has had eight Christmas number ones within various acts. The Spice Girls had three consecutive Christmas number ones in the nineties, a record only to be surpassed by LadBaby who
took the top spot every year from 2018-2022.
You might say (I would, you might) that the charts have lost their relevance of late and when novelty records top the charts some cynics would say (yes, me) that PR wins the Christmas number one spot and not quality/talent. This theory brings up another statistic in the history of the Christmas number one. A campaign that used that exact system of PR strategy to get a quality and very alternative song to this coveted position…
The year is 2009 and the previous five Christmas number ones have all been achieved by Simon Cowell’s X Factor winners. It became almost de rigueur that the winner of X Factor would, with massive amounts of PR and studio/production assistance, automatically be that year’s number one at Christmas. Enter Jon Morter and his love of rock music and disdain for commercial pop. What do you do to stop the commercial juggernaut of the X Factor? What do you do to ‘rage against the machine’? Exactly that! You start a social media campaign to get the most unlikely song to the Christmas number one spot and thus scupper the hopes of that year’s X Factor winner Joe McElderry. So began the PR campaign to make Killing in the Name, a protest song by Californian rock band Rage Against the Machine, Christmas number one. The song itself was inspired by police brutality suffered by Rodney King and the subsequent riots in LA. Not the usual subject matter for a Christmas number one but a song with real feeling and an awesome groove to boot. But would a song with upwards of seventeen ‘grown-up’ expletives in it ever get to number one? Especially at Christmas? Absolutely!
On 20th December 2009, it was announced that Rage Against the Machine, selling over 500,000 copies, were the occupants of the year’s Christmas number-
EM_ST.qxp_Layout 1 21/11/2024 08:47 Page 1
one spot. With this achievement, the song became the first download-only song to become number one in the UK charts. Not only that but the band donated all the proceeds from the sale of the single to the UK charity, Shelter. They also, as a thank you to everyone who bought the single, performed a free concert at Finsbury Park for over 40,000 people.
So, an unlikely song brings an end to X Factor chart domination and shows that people power can win the day, can benefit others and bring credibility back to the charts and the Christmas number one position.
That said, and Wham!’s long overdue 2023 accolade aside, festive number ones of late have been exclusively sausage roll-themed novelty songs courtesy of the YouTuber LadBaby. They’ve raised a fantastic amount of money for the Trussell Trust which is great but… sausage rolls!
Maybe I’m missing the point. Maybe the Christmas number-one spot isn’t about a great song or credible talent but purely about money and recognition. If that’s the case, then OK, I can go and listen to something else. Wham!’s Last Christmas was at least a step in the right direction so fingers crossed for 2024. It would be fun to get Scum by Napalm Death to the Christmas numberone spot, though. Who’s with me?
thebeatandtrack.co.uk
Tuesdays 7pm-8pm
Under the Radar
Abbey 104. The Beat and Track’s Paul Maskell often joins presenter Matt Ambrose on his weekly radio show, bringing you the best new sounds from established underground artists and new and rising acts from across the world. Listen live on 104.7FM or online at abbey104.com
MERRY CHRISTMAS from SIMON CHESTERFIELD
SIDE A: LAST TRAIN TO CHRISTMAS SIDE B: I BELIEVE IN FATHER CHRISTMAS
LIMITED EDITION WHITE VINYL SEVEN INCH SINGLE
Available at The Beat and Track, South Street, Sherborne, while stocks last
SIMON CHESTERFIELD ALBUM LAUNCH PARTY
SIMON CHESTERFIELD + FOLLOW THE SUN SATURDAY 14 DECEMBER: THE LYRIC THEATRE, BRIDPORT 7.30pm / Tickets: bridportandwestbay.co.uk
Mondays 1.30pm-3.30pm
Craft and Chat Group
Sherborne Library, Hound Street, DT9 3AA. Bring along your current project and meet others.
Mondays & Thursdays
1.30pm-4pm
Sherborne Indoor Short Mat Bowls
West End Hall, Sherborne DT9 6AU 01935 812329. All welcome
Mondays 2pm-5pm & Tuesdays 7pm-10pm
Sherborne Bridge Club
Sherborne FC Clubhouse, Terrace Playing Fields. 01963 210409 bridgewebs.com/sherborne
Tuesdays 10am-12pm
Fine Folk Dancing
Charlton Horethorne Village Hall, DT9 5NS. £3 per session. Beginners welcome. 01963 220640.
Every Wednesday 6pm–10pm DJ Sessions
Roth Bar, Bruton BA10 0NL
An evening of chilled tunes by local DJs. Free.
Every 1st Thursday 9.30am Netwalk for Business Owners & Entrepreneurs
Pageant Gardens, Sherborne @Netwalksherborne
Every 1st Thursday 11am-12pm Poetry Writing Group
Sherborne Library, Hound Street, DT9 3AA. Share your poetry, hear what others have been working on and have friendly discussions.
Every 2nd & 4th Thursday
WHAT'S
10am-12.30pm
Castleton Probus Club
The Grange, Oborne, DT9 4LA New members welcome. edwardhiscock6@gmail.com
Thursdays 2pm-4pm & Fridays 11am-1pm
Digital Champions Sessions
Sherborne Library, Hound Street, DT9 3AA. Bookable sessions for help with basic skills using your own device or a library computer. sherbornelibrary@ dorsetcouncil.gov.uk
Roth Bar, Bruton BA10 0NL. A chilled afternoon with live jazz or folk music. Free.
Until Wednesday 8th
January 2025 8am-8pm
Art Exhibition - Jeremy Speck and Jonathan Alden
North Wing Level 1 (corridor to restaurant) Dorset County Hospital, DT1 2JY. Fine art printmaker. 01305 253424. dchartsinhospital.org.uk
Until Wednesday 18th (open Tues-Sat)
Exhibition - Richard Pikesley
The Jerram Gallery, Half Moon St, Sherborne DT9 3LN jerramgallery.com
Until Sunday 12th Jan Making Dorset
The Sherborne, Newland, Sherborne DT9 3JG. Free admission. thesherborne.uk
Sunday 1st 10.30am-12.30pm
Messy Museum
Sherborne Museum, Church Ln, DT9 3BP. Free family Christmas crafting event drop-in session. sherbornemuseum.com
Tuesday 3rd 11.30am
Lucy Hallett-Hughes - The Scapegoat: The Brilliant Brief Life of the Duke of Buckingham
The Eastbury Hotel, Long St, Sherborne DT9 3BY. Talk and book signing. Tickets £10 members, £12 non-members available from Winstone’s and sherborneliterarysociety.com (see preview page 124)
Tuesday 3rd 8pm
Members’ Christmas
Evening - Stonehenge: Antiquaries and Artists
Digby Hall, Hound Street, DT9 3AA
Members free, visitors £5 sherbornehistoricalsociety.co.uk
Wednesday 4th 10.15am-12.30pm (2pm with lunch)
Probus Club of Sherborne -
The Women Who Went Around The World
The Grange Oborne DT9 4LA probus.sherborne@gmail.com
Wednesday 4th 3pm and 7pm
A Rebel on the Run –Caravaggio’s Final Years
Digby Hall, Hound Street, DT9 3AA Free for members, £10 for non-members theartssocietysherborne.org
Thursday 5th 2pm
Unlocking the Archives:
The David Hunt Collection
Digby Memorial Hall, Digby Road, DT9 3NL. Volunteers share their experiences of cataloguing the glass plate negatives. £5 (free to members) sherbornemuseum.com
Thursday 5th 7.30pm
Near-ta TheatreChristmas. Time.
Halstock Village Hall, BA22 9SH
A fantastically funny and festive musical comedy for all the family! £12.50, £6 u18s. 01935 891744 artsreach.co.uk
Thursday 5th 7.30pm
Solene Weinachter - After All Buckland Newton Village Hall, DT2 7BZ. Dance, comedy, storytelling
and theatre. £12, £6 u18s. 01300 345455 artsreach.co.uk
Friday 6th 7.30pm, doors open 7pm
Jazz Concert
Cheap Street Church, DT9 3BJ
In aid of the Rendezvous. £17.50 email fiona.franklin@therendezvous.org.uk or by cash or card on the door
Saturday 7th 7.30pm
Greg Lawson & Phil AlexanderLev’s Violin
Chetnole Village Hall, DT9 6NU
Follow the journey of Lev’s Violin and hear some of the music from its past, from Bach and Arvo Part to Armenian and Macedonian music and Klezmer. 01935 873555. £12.50. artsreach.co.uk
Tuesday 10th 9pm
Singing Bowl Soundbath
Digby Memorial Hall, DT9 3LN
Sonic deep tissue massage and detox. £16 Booking 01935 389655 ahiahel@live.com
Wednesday 11th 7.30pm
The Holdovers (15) 2023
Cinematheque, Swan Theatre, 138 Park St, Yeovil BA20 1QT. Members £1, guests £5 cinematheque.org.uk
ART COURSES AND WORKSHOPS
ALL LEVELS OF ABILITY - STUDIO-BASED COMPTON STUDIOS, SHERBORNE
A mesmerising one-man performance of Dickens’ timeless, transformative story with added silliness. £12.50, £6 u18s. 01258 820458 artsreach.co.uk
Saturday 14th, Sunday 15th,
Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd
Lambing Live
Round Chimneys Farm, Glanvilles Wootton, DT9 5QQ. £3 per person. hello@roundchimneysfarm.co.uk or 07450 876969 roundchimneysfarm.co.uk
Saturday 14th (doors 7.30pm)
Simon Chesterfield
Album Launch Party
The Lyric Theatre, 9 Barrack Street, Bridport DT6 3LX. Simon Chesterfield + Follow The Sun. Tickets £10 from bridportandwestbay.co.uk
Saturday 14th 7.30pm (doors open 7pm)
Would I Lie to You
Charlton Horethorne Village Hall, DT9 4NL. Tickets £10 from the village shop or 01935 814199 jb@classicmedia.co.uk
DECEMBER 2024
Sunday 15th 3pm
Bournemouth Symphony
Orchestra Mixed EnsembleCurious Creatures
The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, DT10 1FH. An ensemble of fourteen musicians invite you to join them on a musical journey through the natural world, in a programme presented especially for families. £12, £5 u18s, £30 fam. 01258 475137 artsreach.co.uk
Sunday 15th 7.30pm
Wincanton Choral Society’s Christmas Concert
St Luke’s and St Teresa’s Church, Wincanton, BA9 9DH. ticketsource. co.uk/wincanton-choral-society or on the door. 01749 860457
Monday 16th 10am-11.45am
Community Cuppa
Cheap Street Church Hall, DT9 3BJ
In aid of the Rendezvous. Drinks £1 and cake or a savoury £2.
Join us on the first Wednesday of the month at 3pm and 7pm Digby
Sherborne DT9 3AA Members free; visitors £10 theartssocietysherborne.org
4th December - A Rebel on the Run: Caravaggio’s Final Years. Caravaggio was the definitive bad boy of art history. His meteoric rise to fame ended abruptly following a particularly violent and bloody brawl. This lecture explores in particular the last 4 years of his life, a period of extraordinary creative activity when the artist was forced to leave Rome, realising that his life was in danger.
Hall, Hound Street,
Sonic deep tissue massage and detox.
£16 Booking 01935 389655
ahiahel@live.com
Sport
Sherborne RFC
The Terraces, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 5NS
Men’s 1st XV. 3pm KO
Saturday 7th
Royal Wootton Bassett II (A)
Saturday 14th
Frome (H)
Saturday 21st
Chippenham II (A)
Sherborne Women RFC
2pm KO
Sunday 1st
Exmouth (A)
Sherborne Football Club
The Terraces, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 5NS
Men’s 1st XI. 3pm KO unless otherwise stated
Saturday 7th
Christchurch (A)
Wednesday 11th (7.45pm KO)
AFC Stoneham (H)
Saturday 14th
Bournemouth (Poppies) (A)
Wednesday 18th (7.45pm KO)
Downton (H)
Saturday 21st
WHAT'S ON
Portland (H)
Saturday 28th
Laverstock & Ford (A)
Advent & Christmas Services
Cheap Street Church
Methodist/United Reformed Church
Tuesday 3rd
6.15pm Christingle Service
Saturday 7th
5pm Christmas Tree Festival Carol Service with Sherborne Town Band
Saturday 21st
4pm Carols Traditional and Modern
Christmas Eve
7pm Christmas Communion
Christmas Day
11am Christmas Service
cheapstreetchurch.co.uk
Roman Catholic Church
Sacred Heart and St Aldhelm, Westbury
Christmas Eve
4.30pm Christmas Eve Mass; 6.30pm Vigil of Christmas Mass
Christmas Day 10.30am Christmas Mass
sherbornecatholicchurch.org.uk
Sherborne Churches Together
Saturday 30th November to
Saturday 7th December
Christmas Tree FestivalCheap St Church (see programme below)
Saturday 14th
11am Carol Singing outside Waitrose
Christmas Day
Lunch - Digby Memorial Church Hall
If otherwise alone at Christmas, please book at the Abbey Parish Office.
St Martin Of Tours, Lillington
Sunday 22nd
6pm Carol Service
Christmas Day
9.30am Family Service with Holy Communion
Sherborne Abbey
Sunday 1st
1.30pm, 2.30pm and 3.30pm Shoppers’ Carols
4pm (Lady Chapel) Friends of Sherborne Abbey Reception 5pm Advent Carol Service
Wednesday 4th
2.30pm The Railway Touring Company Carol Service
Saturday 7th
2pm Salamanca Band of the Rifles Christmas Concert
Friday 13th
10.30am Mothers’ Union Carol Service
Sunday 15th
1.30pm and 2.30pm Shoppers’ Carols
5pm Christingle Service
Monday 16th
7.30pm Christmas Concert
Wednesday 18th
7pm (Lady Chapel) Mulled Wine, Mince Pies and Carols outside
Thursday 19th
7pm A Quieter Christmas
Friday 20th
2pm (Digby Memorial Church Hall) Messy Christmas
Sunday 22nd
5pm Festival of Lessons and Carols
Christmas Eve
12pm BCP Holy Communion
3pm and 5pm Crib Services and Lighting of the Tree
11.30pm Midnight MassThe First Eucharist of Christmas
Christmas Day
8am BCP Said Holy Communion
9.30am Parish Eucharist with Carols
11.30am Festal Mattins
Thursday 26th
10am Feast of St Stephen Eucharist with Carols
Contact the Parish Office 01935 713777 or sherborneabbey.com
St Mary Magdalene, Castleton
Christmas Day
11am Service of Lessons and Carols; BCP Holy Communion
St James The Great, Longburton
Sunday 15th
6pm Carol Service
Sunday 22nd 10am Holy Communion
Christmas Eve
4pm (Rose & Crown, Longburton) ‘Crib Service @ the Inn’ 11.30pm First Eucharist of Christmas
Christmas Day
10am Family Holy Communion
Reborne Church
Sunday 15th
4.30pm for 5pm Contemporary Carol Service at Digby Hall, DT9 3AA
St Paul’s @ The Gryphon
Sunday 8th
3pm-5pm Craft & Carols at St Paul’s
Sunday 15th
10.30am All Age Nativity Service at The Gryphon
Christmas Eve 10am Quieter Christmas Communion at St Paul’s
Christmas Day 10am Christmas Celebration at The Gryphon spcs.church
The Society Of Friends (Quakers)
Sunday 22nd and 29th
10.30am Meeting at the Digby Memorial Church Hall Text 07870 192599
Sherborne Churches Together
Christmas Tree Festival
Cheap Street Church. Open 10am-5pm daily from 30th November
Sunday 1st
10.30am-12pm Sunday Morning
Worship - all are welcome but festival closed
Monday 2nd 2.30pm Abbey Primary School Choir
Tuesday 3rd 2pm Leweston Prep Choir
Wednesday 4th 11am Sherborne Prep Choir
Thursday 5th
10.15am Sherborne Primary School Carols
Thursday 5th
2pm Integral Voice - Anthony Durkin
Friday 6th 2pm Sherborne Rock Choir
Friday 6th
7.30pm Jazz Concert. £17.50 Tickets by email: fiona.franklin@therendezvous.org.uk (proceeds to The Rendezvous)
Saturday 7th
5pm Closing Carol Concert led by Rev Becca with The Town Band, Town Mayor and presentation of cheques to this year’s local beneficiaries: The Rendezvous and SHARES
To include your event in our FREE listings please email details – date/ time/title/venue/description/price/ contact (max 20 words) – by the 5th of each preceding month to listings@homegrown-media.co.uk
MARKET KNOWLEDGE
ALANDA PHILLIPS, BOTTLE HOUSE CRAFTS
Welcome to The Sherborne Market!
What brings you here?
I started my little business in August 2023, after leaving teaching. I started trading at The Sherborne Market soon after and haven’t looked back – it’s one of my monthly highlights and is always a wonderful day out.
Where have you travelled from?
I live and work in Stalbridge, in a house called Old Bottle House. It was named after an early example (16th century) of a witch’s protective spell bottle was discovered in the enormous inglenook fireplace in the 1970s. I run craft workshops in the house, as well as it being home to my two workshop spaces, so my business was named after it!
Tell us about what you’re selling
I make dried flower wreaths using largely locally grown, home-dried flowers. I take great pleasure in experimenting with different drying and dyeing processes to get the best possible colour palettes to work with. The wreaths are great for all-year-round on your front door or inside as a piece of art. I also make polymer clay and resin jewellery. Polymer clay is a fantastic, lightweight and versatile medium, with which I create miniature items such as book stacks, Christmas trees and flowers – all hanging on silver-plated earring hooks or sterling silver necklace chains.
Where and when did it all begin?
I’ve been making and creating for a lifetime. As a child,
I was obsessed with miniatures and would often make things for my dolls’ house and my passion for jewellery making began with paper beads at the youngest age! Having left teaching, I decided to sign up for a couple of markets for fun, never really considering that a year later it would be such a huge part of my life.
What do you enjoy most about selling at markets?
There honestly is no better thing to do with a day –you meet wonderful people and you burst with pride when people compliment your creations. Sometimes a customer pops by already wearing a pair of earrings that I’ve created and it’s the most pure joy. The market has an excellent energy and there’s great comradery amongst the trading community; we all help each other out.
If you get the chance, which fellow stallholders here at Sherborne would you like to visit?
I always feel that it’s the one downside of trading –I’d love to wander around more! I love the miniature art pieces made by ‘On my Travels’ and the beautiful pointillism work by ‘Holly Berlyn Art’. I’ve also got my eye on some Christmas tree decorations from ‘Jim Jam by Jessica’.
Where can people find you on market day?
You’ll find me on Half Moon Street; just at the front of the Abbey. It’s a spectacular backdrop for my little stall and for the market as a whole.
bottlehousecrafts.co.uk
Hand picked & selected artisan market
Flying the flag for local featuring local producers, suppliers, amazing food, arts and crafts.
Markets held between 10am - 3pm on the dates below.
DEC 15TH 10AM - 3PM
2025 dates
APR 20TH
MAY 18TH
JUNE 15TH
JULY 20TH
AUG 17TH
SEPT 21ST
OCT 19TH
NOV 16TH
DEC 21ST
Image: Clare Walsh
BUILDING A KIND AND CONNECTED COMMUNITY
Alison Weir, Good Company Bruton, Hauser & Wirth Somerset’s 2024-2025 Charity Partner
As understood and demonstrated by the many voluntary organisations in Sherborne, the strength of a community lies within the connections between its people. Set up in March 2021 by and for the people of Bruton, Good Company Bruton supports good causes to create a greater sense of belonging and to make Bruton a better place for all. Over the years, we’ve seen just how powerful this can be.
Good ideas that help communities can often grind to a halt because of the associated bureaucracy and administration that come with getting projects started. We exist to remove that barrier, meaning the person with the good idea can pour their time and energy into creating positive change.
What started as a small group of local volunteers has grown into something that touches many. We’ve supported numerous not-for-profit causes, including a food bank and skatepark, as well as launching Good Company Christmas – a community lunch on Christmas Day for anyone who wants to connect with new and different people. Next year, we look forward to launching a new project utilising the power of community groups in our town to help increase our collective mental fitness.
At the heart of all of this is Bruton’s incredible network of volunteers. It’s often said that volunteering benefits the giver as much as the receiver and we see that every day. People initially come to help others but they leave feeling more connected, more empowered and part of something bigger. Volunteering gives people a sense of purpose and it fosters a shared responsibility for the place we all call home.
The most rewarding thing by far has been watching volunteers – ordinary people from all walks of life – come together and create extraordinary change. It’s a reminder that community spirit isn’t just about where we live but about how we live together. When we work together for the benefit of the community, something remarkable happens. We build places that are kinder, more resilient and truly connected.
If you’re reading this in Somerset or Dorset and wondering whether something like this could work in your area, we’d encourage you to take that first step. Bring people together, start conversations and be open to what your community needs. The rewards are far-reaching – for those you help and for yourself. And if you need advice, we’re here. We’ve learned a lot on our journey and we’d love to share it with you. After all, we’re all in Good Company.
These items are in addition to the basic food & essentials we deliver to those in need
Gluten Free/Dairy Free/Vegetarian/Vegan products are always welcome
Donation points can be found near the check-outs at
www.sherbornefoodbank.org
07854 163869 | help@sherbornefoodbank.org
Make a Difference to Young People’s Lives
Do you have time to help young people in the Sherborne/Yeovil area?
We are looking for volunteers on an ad hoc or regular basis to help deliver our Learning Programme, work behind the scenes or assist our fundraising activities
Please contact us now. We would love to hear from you
Tutoring
Maths & English* Administration Design
*No teaching experience necessary but regular time commitment essential
Find out more www.therendezvous.org.uk/get-involved
Sherborne Churches Together Christmas Tree Festival
In aid of SHARES (Sherborne Area Refugee Support), and The Rendezvous
FROM SATURDAY 30TH NOVEMBER
CHEAP STREET CHURCH, SHERBORNE 10AM-5PM DAILY
FINISHING WITH CAROL SERVICE
AMONGST THE TREES ON SATURDAY DECEMBER 7TH @ 5PM
Choirs performing through the week. With thanks to Castle Gardens.
Childrens Christmas Book Reviews
Hazel Roadnight, Winstone’s Books
Bukhavets Mikhail/Shutterstock
Letters From the North Pole
Annie Atkins & Fia Tobing (Magic Cat £16.99)
A beautifully crafted book that has letters from Santa Claus to pull out and read along with plans for the gift they always wanted, so that the elves get it just right.
Twinkly, Twinkly
Santa’s Sleigh Ride
Sam Taplin & Roisin Hahessy (Usborne, £12.99)
It’s Santa’s busiest night of the year and in this book, we get to follow him on his magical journey with 10 sparkly lights to show the way.
Words of Love
Jake Biggin (DK £12.99)
A beautiful book for children of all ages and adults too. A smart sausage dog and a curious child have questions about hope, love and our everyday lives.
The Story Orchestra: A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Jessica Courtney-Tickle (Frances Lincoln Children’s £16.99)
With a piece of music on every page from Mendelssohn’s suite, the sound really brings the tale to life and transports you through the book.
Celebrating 10 Years as Sherborne’s Independent Bookseller 2012-2022
A
Turtle Moon
Hannah Gold & Levi Pinfold (HarperCollins Children’s £14.99)
It’s always a great story when it comes from Hannah Gold and this time we’re going to Costa Rica to a turtle rescue centre.
The Completely Chaotic Christmas of Lottie Brooks
Kate Kirby (Puffin £7.99)
The latest in the excellent series with the bonkers life of Lottie Brooks continuing. There’s no school for 2 weeks but of course, as usual, life is chaotic!
A Story of the Seasons
Anna Wilson & Carolina Rabei (Nosy Crow £20)
Full of facts and fascinating information about the natural world. With some excellent illustrations, it takes us through the seasons and the wildlife we can see.
shop.winstonebooks.co.uk
Hamza’s Wild World
Hamza Yassin & Louise Forshaw (Macmillan Children £14.99)
The fabulous Hamza takes us on a wildlife trip to the animal kingdom with all the fun you’d expect from the Strictly winner and brilliant cameraman.
UNEARTHED
Freddie Storey Aged 10, Hazlegrove Prep
We have a running star in our midst!
Freddie has stacked up an impressive 304.6 miles running the Cornish coast in aid of the Cornwall Wildlife Trust. Freddie loves the outdoors and particularly animals having grown up around them. Having started the challenge when he attended school in Cornwall, Freddie was left with over 140 miles to run over the summer holidays following his move to Hazlegrove. It was a steep challenge and he ran between 14-18 miles a day on three separate occasions and over 33 miles over 48 hours, twice! To complete the challenge, it often meant that Freddie and his parents stayed on location overnight and even slept in the back of the car when necessary. Support has come in the form of encouragement from Great Britain Olympians, Paula Radcliffe, Sally Gunnell and Liz McColgan.
Freddie's incredible achievement means that he has run the equivalent of Hampshire to Northumberland and ascended over 45,000 feet not to mention spending more than 80 hours in cars or buses getting to and from runs. Having never done anything like this before, Freddie now has the running bug and it's clearly contagious. His younger brother Max, will be joining him to run the Dorset coast with the Somerset and Devon coasts to follow!
hazlegrove.co.uk
freddierunscornwall
JustGiving bit.ly/4eDcKWH
07808 400083
info@katharinedaviesphotography.co.uk
www.katharinedaviesphotography.co.uk
Independent boarding and day school for girls aged 7 to 13
“Offers the most magical upbringing a little girl can dream of” The Carfax Education School Index
HIDDEN WONDERS
Alastair Poulain, Deputy Head (Co-Curricular)
Doing something for others feels better than doing something for yourself. Altruism. Although, of course, doing something for others can never be purely altruistic. If you ignore the fact that public perception rises when you’re seen to be doing something good, by doing something good, the world around you will (perhaps imperceptibly) lift. Then your feeling of self-worth will rise – you have lifted yourself and your own mood and emotions.
You have also done yourself some good. Like the horsehair shirt wearers or the flagellants of the Middle Ages, in doing something that you might originally have preferred not to, you have conquered your own welloiled base desires, stronger for the next challenge, too.
In the days of instant gratification, the days of Just Eat, social media’s relentless and endless (unsatisfying) dopamine hits, in the age of Netflix and central heating, Uber and Ozempic, the mental strength to do something good for others, instead, stands as an ever more isolated act of beauty. With a decreasing central (religious) body encouraging this, pushing you into doing so, those who do good should be applauded, lauded, raised on a plinth and paraded to all.
What little acts children do in any school or community that betters the life of others, seen or unseen, should be held in this contemporary light. Whenever carols are sung for a charity, money raised
through bike rides, campouts, cakes baked or juices sold on street corners, it is perhaps apt to remember how changed the background is to similar endeavours a generation ago, when not only was community a heftier and more meaningful term, as was religion, but so was our identity as a nation who ought to give (patriotism and patronage wrapped together).
Is this, now, the purest of altruistic acts, as so often there is no god, community, national will or any form of collective, central body driving people to do this?
The joy with all of this lies in the happy knowledge that it takes so little, sometimes nothing, for children to enjoy doing these good things (or for us adults, jaundiced though we are). Perhaps the need to be nudged gently beforehand, steered lightly through and praised after, is all that it takes.
We believe that the more we can reach into the community, the more we can do (small acts of) good, the more we can see the effects of good being done, the healthier and the more robust and genuine a community we can be. An act of charity helps three sets of people – the beneficiary, the giver and all those who recognise the act, being heartened by the humanity behind it. This is something we strive for every child to do, every day, now and, I hope, long into the future.
sherborneprep.org
Image: Katharine Davies
SUGAR AND SPICE AND ALL THINGS NICE?
Hilary Phillips, Head, Hanford School
As you may know, Hanford is a school for girls aged 7 to 13 years old. There are no boys and we have no plans to admit them. That makes us a little unusual as these days most schools are coeducational and, with strong views on either side, the question of whether single-sex or co-ed schools are best can be a hard one for parents to answer.
We believe that by teaching the girls in a single-sex setting, we give them freedom from stereotypes – a space where they can develop the confidence to take charge and put themselves forward. They feel freer to develop their competitive side, both academically and sportingly. They have all the leadership opportunities and we make sure that they have a good balance of inspiring role models. Teaching girls allows us to modify our pedagogy and follow the science behind how a female brain works.
Of course, all schools will want all the aforementioned for their pupils and many co-ed schools argue that the world is co-ed and therefore we are disadvantaging our daughters by denying them the opportunity to become used to living and working alongside boys. Stop press! I think that will probably happen anyway and more successfully with the skills they have developed at their single-sex school. Studies have shown that teachers are unconsciously 30% more attentive to boys. This is particularly prevalent in maths and the sciences.
However, rather than continue the argument for single-sex versus co-ed schools, it would be more worthwhile to focus less on the structure of the school and to concentrate more on whether a school is really good. The right school for your daughter may not depend on the gender question. As I have mentioned in earlier articles, there are a myriad of factors that will make a school the right one for your family. What learners need is an inspiring environment and an engaging, appropriate curriculum where aspiration is set high for all within a supportive framework of trust and support. Is the school
forward-looking or is it stuck in the past? Is what is taught setting the children up for life?
Now I realise I might be making my marketing and admissions staff uncomfortable with this allowance that co-ed is just as good as our all-girls Hanford. Well, they can relax as I think any great school that is doing its job well is worth praise but I still throw my hat in the single-sex ring. What is most important, I believe, is the fact that when girls go to a single-sex school, they emotionally invest in relationships with each other. In contrast, when they attend a mixed-sex
Image: Amelia Johnson
school, they put a lot of their energy into cross-gender relationships. These boy-girl friendships most often get defused later in life for obvious reasons. The girl friendships achieve an intensity in the all-girls schools, on that other hand, that can only grow stronger over the years. It’s important that they learn how to navigate relationships with the other girls in their year groups and throughout the whole school. It is very likely that these will help them form the basis of their support networks in the future. When Old Hanford Girls come back to visit, it is clear that they have deep and lasting
friendships which provide help and comfort when times are bad and good.
A good school should provide your child with an excellent academic experience. However, there is something special about a school devoted exclusively to girls and young women. The loyalties and ties built here are deep and long-lasting, in fact, lifelong. And in today’s fast-paced, high-pressured world, such close friendships are everything.
hanfordschool.co.uk
DRAWN TO THE LIGHT
Dotted Chestnut Conistra rubignea
Gillian Nash
Certainly distinctive, the attractive Dotted Chestnut moth is always a welcome sight for recorders and one of the few moths that may be seen in the cooler months. Those species that do fly typically have colour that reflects the muted hues of a changed winter landscape.
Clothed in many sooty black dots and lines throughout its rich yellow or deep orange wings and fluffy thorax, when newly emerged, it is undeniably one of our most beautiful seasonal moths.
On the wing again in early spring to breed following a short hibernation, its colour is often by then faded but still fully identifiable. Eggs are laid with resulting dark brown and black dotted larvae through April to June and although little is known as regards its natural foodplant, in captivity the leaves of apple and various other trees are accepted. Once fully fed pupation occurs just below ground level with the emergence of the moth later that same year.
A nationally scarce species distributed across much
of the southern and southeastern half of England and Wales, it can be found in its preferred habitat of woodland, dense hedgerow, wasteland and occasionally parks and gardens. The nocturnal adult moth may sometimes be seen by torchlight, nectaring on ivy flowers.
First recorded in Dorset in the late 1800s, it has never been a common moth although statistics indicate an extending northerly range, together with increased numbers in recent decades.
Many moth species and other invertebrates are dependent on the debris that collects at ground level under trees and around our herbaceous borders to provide essential protection, enabling survival through the winter months. Where possible, if we are able to leave these areas undisturbed, not only will it provide a protective nutrient-rich mulch around plants but it will assist the life stages of many of those important pollinating flying insects we love to see through the warmer months in our gardens and countryside, including butterflies and moths.
Neil Bowman/iStock
OHELPING HIBERNATING HEDGEHOGS
Jack Clarke, Marketing & Communications Officer, Dorset Wildlife Trust
ften considered a gardener’s best friend, the European hedgehog is happiest when hoovering up insects found amongst the vegetable patches in gardens and allotments.
But hedgehog populations in the UK are at risk, with numbers falling by 30% in just over 10 years. Habitat loss, road hazards and environmental threats are the cause of this decline in numbers but there are things you can do to help local hedgehog numbers recover.
While many animals have adapted to cope with the harsh conditions of winter, hedgehogs are one of only a handful of UK mammals to truly hibernate. They enter a state of torpor from October/ November to March/ April, lowering their body temperature and slowing
their metabolism to save energy. Although your local hedgehogs may not be active at the moment, you can certainly start working on your garden and greenspace to support them when they ‘wake up’ in the spring.
Most famous for devouring slugs and snails, hedgehogs actually eat a wide range of common garden invertebrates, with beetles, earthworms and caterpillars making up most of their diet. Planting a variety of different plants will, of course, help attract these minibeasts but for those of you who don’t consider yourselves to be green-fingered, a simple log pile will do wonders! Grab any logs and loose branches around your garden (or ask a neighbour) and get stacking. These log piles can also double up as good hedgehog nesting sites.
Another great way to support hedgehogs is by composting your garden and kitchen waste. Not only are you reducing the amount of waste going to landfill but you’re also providing a habitat for a host of minibeasts that hedgehogs can feed on. All you need for a successful compost heap is waste, air and water. A simple heap covered with old carpet or plastic is just as effective as a ‘bin’.
Hedgehogs need to be able to roam far and wide in search of food, mates and nesting sites, with the average hedgehog roaming 2km a night. Get together with your neighbours to create a hedgehog highway by cutting a 13cm x 13cm hole (5in) hole in your fence or dig a channel beneath garden boundaries to connect your greenspaces.
Know somebody who loves hedgehogs? This Christmas, Dorset Wildlife Trust have launched a new digital hedgehog adoption pack. Visit dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/shop to find out more.
• A hedgehog’s spines are modified hairs and on average they have about 7,000 of them.
• There are 14 different species of hedgehog around the world.
• Some European hedgehogs are blonde. This colour mutation is called leucism and is thought to be caused by rare recessive genes.
Image: Jon Hawkins
FAIR GAME?
Simon Ford, Ecologist
Writing this article, it sounds like World War III has broken out in the woods above The Terraces in Sherborne! A barrage of shotguns is blasting away, presumably at pheasants and partridges, driven by beaters towards the guns.
Shooting arouses strong emotions, both for and against. Some see it as an important traditional country sport, bringing significant income to estates and attracting wealthy clients to the local hotels and restaurants. Indeed, I saw groups of men wearing tweeds, plus-fours and brogues walking down Cheap Street earlier today, looking somewhat incongruous amongst the local shoppers! Other people object on animal welfare grounds. My interest is in the ecological impact or, indeed, benefits of shooting.
Reading the websites of the British Association of Shooting and Conservation (BASC), the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) and Countryside Alliance, much is made of how shooting can maintain various species of wildlife. In particular, landowners might retain strips of woodland, hedges and rough grassland to provide shelter for game birds, which it is said would be grubbed up to grow crops if they could not shoot.
Strips of maize and sunflowers are often planted at the top of steep valleys to provide food and cover for pheasants and partridge and these in turn can attract wild birds. In particular, some areas are planted with a wild bird seed mix, including plants like Phacelia, radish, buckwheat and barley which can help to sustain
Piotr Krzeslak/Shutterstock
flocks of birds, such as goldfinch, linnet, stonechat and chaffinch over the winter. These areas can also provide nectar for pollinators such as bees and moths.
Shooting estates will often employ gamekeepers to feed and protect the game birds but also to shoot ‘control’ species which might prey on them, such as foxes, weasels, stoats and crows, as well as other ‘pest species’, such as grey squirrel, deer, pigeon and brown rat. I still remember visiting a woodland to find large racks with all of these animals and more hanging from them. In the past, there has been enormous persecution of birds of prey, from buzzards, red kite, hobby, merlin, goshawk, hen harrier, golden eagle and even sea eagle being shot or poisoned with strychnine-laced carcasses. Luckily, this is mostly in the past, although only last year, two sea eagles were
deliberately killed in Dorset and there is persistent illegal shooting of hen harriers on some grouse moors.
It is estimated that an incredible 35 to 48 million pheasants and 7 to 14 million red-legged partridge are released into the British countryside each year, mostly in lowland England. In addition, as can be seen in Honeycombe Woods, Sherborne, large flocks of mallard duck are also bred for shooting. Both pheasants and red-legged partridge are non-native birds but they now make up over half of the bird biomass in Britain! It is incredible to me that they exceed all of the native geese, ducks, gulls, songbirds, birds of prey, as well as woodland and garden birds in our country. The number of game birds released is growing exponentially and is believed to have increased seven-fold since the 1960s.
Such high densities of non-native birds can have very significant impacts on wildlife, particularly where there are pens and they are fed with grain. Insects, small mammals, ground-nesting birds and reptiles/ amphibians can be decimated and the faeces and seed can destroy the flora and fungi, in a similar way to in chicken pens. I have surveyed ancient woodland sites in The Cotswolds in Gloucestershire, which have become completely subsumed by nettles, due to enrichment and feeding, with previously rich flora lost.
Regulation is very sparse and it is common to see intensive shoots and pheasant rearing in Sites of Special Scientific Interest and in Ancient Woodlands. Public access can be restricted as we see locally (although not legally on Public Rights of Way). Interestingly, across much of Europe, shooting takes place but in a much less intensive and managed manner. However, in Southern European countries such as Malta, Cyprus, Italy and Spain, wild birds such as turtle doves and songbirds are sadly shot in great numbers – something which luckily no longer occurs in Britain.
I said at the beginning of this article that the subject will draw out strong emotions on either side. From my perspective, I think the pros are outweighed by the cons, although I would not have an issue with an oldfashioned ‘rough shoot’. These would not require vast numbers of birds to be bred and released into the wild and would require much greater skill to shoot. It would however be far less lucrative to the estates!
I hope that the weather will be kind and allow Sherborne Times readers to get out in the woods and countryside to enjoy the wonderful views and wildlife, followed perhaps by a pub lunch in front of a roaring log fire. Happy Christmas!
PERSPECTIVE
Paula Carnell, Beekeeping Consultant, Writer and Speaker
‘Someone asked me, “Aren’t you worried about the state of the world?” I allowed myself to breathe and then I said, “What is most important is not to allow your anxiety about what happens in the world to fill your heart. If your heart is filled with anxiety, you will get sick, and you will not be able to help.’ Thich Nhat Hanh
Isaw this quote from Thich Nhat Hanh, a Buddhist monk, and it helped me to reconcile the mixed feelings I have about sharing the learnings and joy from living on Cocos Keeling, a remote coral atoll, with the realities of so many in the world.
I am writing this on the eve of the American election and whilst Britain is still reeling post-budget. We are, without a doubt, living through a chaotic time
– ‘through’ being the most appropriate word. There is no over, under or around it – we are all affected and through is the only way to go. It may appear that we have escaped all the wars and dramatic weather events, yet in its own way, much uncertainty and trauma exists here too. Despite the pure paradise environment, the community is grieving over yet another death. With a population of 500, 15 deaths already this year, 14 last
year, everyone is touched by grief.
Cocos Keeling, although nestled in an environmental idyll with Australian First World comforts, albeit at the cost of time and money, does indeed have its own concerns. This week a group of scientists, including mainland entomologists, were visiting to undertake research on the state of various invasive species. I was delighted that they took the time to visit and discuss with me my project here and my work with bees. It was amazing to be able to talk about bees, wasps, varroa, other diseases and invasive plants. They organised a presentation later in the day, which of course I attended. However, I was the only one who did! Their presentation clashed with a ‘pop-up’ Q&A session with the developers of the new military and governmental runway and airport upgrade – almost a billion-dollar project which has whispers of ‘Diego Garcia’ echoing around the Kampong and residents of both inhabited islands.
The entomologists were surprised that more locals weren’t interested in the termite invasion of their homes or the invasive Macau paper wasp or even the Siam weed choking their small farms. I pointed out that why would someone be concerned about a termite they’ve lived with for years, even making sculptures of out of coconut shells of the ‘white bug’, in the homes the government will neither repair for them when damaged or let them own to pass onto their families? When a population are fearful that the government could one day say that they all have to leave because of the runway project, a cyclone or for any other reason the islands could be deemed unsafe for habitation, who would worry about an insect living in the walls of their home that they have no power to do anything about? The Cocos Malay have mastered the art of living in the present, dealing with the daily concerns of tides, ferries, food supplies, births, sickness and deaths. If a wall crumbles due to termites, they patch it up. This perspective simply hadn’t occurred to the team and they were grateful of my comments helping them realise it wasn’t a personal rebut to their efforts!
The bees here are thriving despite all the chaos around them. Local women are beginning to learn beekeeping skills, which are challenging as the weather warms up and the cooling trade winds drop. I have been sharing the bees with passing sailors from around-the-world rallies as they stop off for supplies before their next leg and experience the astonishing healing power of simply sitting in close proximity to
"The Cocos Malay have mastered the art of living in the present, dealing with the daily concerns of tides, ferries, food supplies, births, sickness and deaths"
bees. The bees teach us to be present – they carry on collecting nectar and pollen, expanding their colonies, unaware of any possible futures here. Whatever happens, the entomologists assured me that caretakers of the native and non-native species here will need monitoring to protect the mainland and research in a closed environment. Perhaps the bees could be a way to ensure that the locals can stay here, no matter what the government’s plan. The honey is flowing with year-round nectar. I had an additional ray of hope. North Keeping is an uninhabited island 15 miles north of the Cocos Atoll I am desperate to visit. However, it is a national park and only visited by local rangers and invited scientists. You have to swim ashore and return to the boat, which would be scary for me. However, it’s a challenge I’d willingly overcome to do a bee audit there. After last week’s visit, a ranger told me they may have found a bee! If so, the head ranger would have to follow up on their promise to take me on the next trip! Darwin plus a handful of other entomologists have visited and none have found bees there, but since I’ve arrived, everyone is thinking and seeing bees. It’s so exciting!
We’re taking a break from Cocos over December, spending Christmas in Tasmania. For the past 4 years, I have done a daily Honey Advent on YouTube and social media. Now I have my podcast, I have decided to move the event to that. As we only have two types of honey here, I will stretch the advent to ‘Creating a Buzz about Health’ – short daily snippets to replace traditional daily advent chocolate. We leave Cocos on 10th December and through Western Australia and Tasmania, I will get the chance to taste some extraordinary honey which I will be sharing during this Podcast Advent. Wishing you all a peaceful passage through December and may we all be buzzing in 2025!
sherbornejoinery.co.uk All aspects of bespoke, handmade joinery including: Doors, Windows, Staircases, Tables and Chairs
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OBJECT OF THE MONTH
THE JUVENILE THEATRE
Elisabeth Bletsoe, Curator, Sherborne Museum
These popular C19th toys provide modern theatre historians with valuable records of plays and playhouses. Most scholars believe the ‘juvenile drama’ originated from engraved sheets printed in London (c. 1810) as souvenirs of current plays. Each sheet depicted the principal players in dramatic attitudes and the names and portraits of the actors were often given. Later, the souvenir sheets began to include pictures of scenery as well as miniature theatres, complete with wings and proscenium arches.
Their success led to the creation of a series especially for children with 10-20 cutout sheets, again depicting all the cast and scenery along with a condensed and often bowdlerised version of the script. Sheets cost 1d for plain images and 2d for hand-coloured ones, inspiring Robert Louis Stevenson’s 1884 essay Penny Plain, Twopence Coloured as a nostalgic tribute. They reached their greatest popularity between 1815-1835 but were still being produced well into the 1850s. More than 300 plays were adapted from the London theatre with over 100 print sellers involved in their manufacture. Similar small but complex structures were created in Europe.
The museum’s juvenile theatre is particularly special and was analysed by Douglas A. Denning (1916-1987), a member of the Society for Theatre Research. He confirmed it as being produced by Matthias Trentsensky (1790-1868), a Viennese publisher and engraver of Hungarian origin who was a notable manufacturer of toy theatres and an expert on folk or theatrical costumes.
We know from its accompanying script that the featured play is The Czar and the Carpenter, a comic opera by Albert Lortzing in three acts first performed in Leipzig in December 1837. The theatre consists of a baseboard 24cm x 29cm x 1cm, with four pairs of holes to receive pegs for the wings. The proscenium arch, made of stiff paper board decorated by a hand-tinted lithograph in the ‘French’ style c. 1860, is flanked by two standing figures on marble pillars. The front curtains, which date from the 1830 first edition, are crimson with gold tassels and meet centrally to create the illusion of a Corinthian column. All the colours reflect the ‘pastel confection’ aesthetic that was in vogue at the time. There are two sets of wings with painted uplighter lamps and garlands that correspond with the two appropriate backdrops; these are a wharf in Saardam and a tavern at night (pictured).
Twenty-three cut-out characters include Maria, Peter I of Russia, Peter Ivanov, the Marquis of Chateauneuf, Van Bett, Widow Browne, Lord Sydenham, General Leforte and various sailors and officers. The figures could be attached to small tabs, sticks, wires or strings to allow movement around the set. The theatres would have been sold as kits at the concession stand at operas, performances and vaudevilles, assembled at home and performed in the parlour for family members and guests, often with live musical accompaniment and moody candlelight.
The popularity of the little theatres fluctuated during more recent times, declining with the advent of illustrated journals and increased realism in dramatic performances. A second wave of interest occurred in the early C20th when they became a tool for the avant-garde such as in the work of the futurist Marinetti, the cubist artist Picasso and film directors like Orson Wells and Ingmar Bergman. The motif persists in the work of Jan Svankmajer and experimental puppeteers who continue to push boundaries, using it for inspiration in horrorbased gaming and Japanese manga.
sherbornemuseum.com
Sherborne Museum is closing early this December to allow for building works. Their last day open will be Sunday 1st December, Festive Shopping Day, from 10.30am-12.30pm, when they will be providing free Christmas crafting activities for children.
THE INDOMITABLE BILLINGER AND SPARKE
Barbara Elsmore
Iwas interested to read Louise Troup’s celebration of 125 years of Sherborne Girls in the November edition of the Sherborne Times and was drawn to the fact that it all began in 1899 at Ransome House on Greenhill. With the opening of The Sherborne, there has been a resurge of interest in Sherborne House which was the last home of Lord Digby’s School. Many expupils are visiting, often with their families and friends to witness the transformation of their old school into the magnificent centre for the arts that it has now become.
Before moving into Sherborne House Lord Digby’s School occupied several sites around the town. In 1743 Lord William Digby (1660-1752) founded the school, donating a schoolhouse ‘newly erected’ in Westbury, now incorporated into the Britannia Inn. The school moved briefly over the road into Westbury House but the increase in rent could not be met and they had to move back to the foundation house where conditions were constantly criticised by the school inspector.
The next home of the school can be seen from one of the upstairs windows in The Sherborne, albeit under what is now Waitrose car park. This was the site of a private house into which, with the addition of two large rooms each measuring 40’ x 20’, the school moved in 1898, prompting more favourable reviews from the school inspector.
Over the years, many people have played important roles in the life of Lord Digby’s School but none more so than Miss Margaret Billinger, who was appointed
headmistress in 1917 and arrived in the town with Miss Kathleen Sparke, a kindergarten teacher from Nuneaton High School for Girls where they had taught together. Ransome House, previously the first home of Sherborne Girls, was rented for Miss Billinger and the boarders at the school, and this is where Miss Sparke started the preparatory school, taking in boys as well as girls.
Miss Billinger is pictured (above) in the earliest known panoramic photograph, taken in 1921, of the whole school and kindergarten. She is sitting composedly in the centre of the photograph in fur collar and cuffs with Miss Sparke on her right. There were then 173 girls at the school of whom 37 were boarders, with 40 boys and girls in Miss Sparke’s preparatory department. A year or so later numbers began to fall and in 1924 Ransome House was ‘given up’. The ever-resourceful Miss Billinger purchased Englefield at the lower end of The Avenue, renamed it Stonegarth and opened it as a school boarding house where Miss Sparke continued the preparatory school on her own account.
The continuous improvements made by the school were not matched by the condition of the school buildings which became more and more inadequate. Help was however at hand and in November 1931 the chairman of the governors Mr Littleton Powys secured the school’s future with a move over the road into Sherborne House where Miss Billinger furnished the library as her gift to the school.
REFLECTIONS
Richard Bromell ASFAV, Charterhouse Auctioneers
We have been super busy over the year despite a general election and a new Chancellor with her budget, which always breeds a degree of uncertainty. Sitting in my office at Charterhouse World Headquarters in Sherborne today, I am taking a little time to reflect over a coffee and a cheeky chocolate digestive (milk, not dark, always!).
Generally, I am not a reflective chap but I have a couple of big numbers floating around. The first big number is 40. Clearly not my age but the number of years I have been working in auctioneering. During these decades, I have worked for auctioneers up and down the country from South Devon to North Yorkshire and in plenty of other counties, too, but in 1985, I started working for Phillips Auctioneers, as it was known then, at The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, where I am today, 40 years later.
The second big number is 25. This is how many years ago I set up Charterhouse Auctioneers. During my time at Charterhouse, we’ve had plenty of highs and a few lows. The highs have been developing the business into the tour de force it is today, selling millions of pounds worth of silver, jewellery, watches, pictures, medals, antiques, clocks, collector’s items, classic motorcycles and vintage cars every year, the clients we have met and helped and all the lovely
The William Lee Hankey oil painting of La Rochelle harbour £2,000-£4,000
lots we have sold. Our top lot (to date) was for an Italian chipped plate I found hanging on the wall of a cottage to which the owner attached no great value and we sold successfully for £560,000 – a life-changing sum of money for the owner.
The lows have been the staff and clients who have passed away over the 25 years, including my late mother, who helped from the very first auction until relatively recently. And being in a reflective mood, an oil painting hanging on display in reception for our specialist picture auction in January has caught my eye – a view of La Rochelle harbour by William Lee Hankey.
William Lee Hankey was one of the first artists I came across 40 years ago which made an impression on me when the auctioneers I worked for sold one of his paintings. Born in Chester in 1869, he went on to study at the Royal College of Art, first exhibited in the Royal Academy in 1896 and was associated with the Newlyn School of Artists.
He spent most of the early part of the 20th century living in France which is when he painted this view of La Rochelle harbour. The painting has a calming effect on me as I stop to look at and study all the details when walking through reception.
It certainly seems a much less frenetic pace of life being in La Rochelle over 100 years ago, unlike here with the phone ringing, emails pouring in, clients calling in for valuations and of course, our busy auction days.
Estimated at £2,000-£4,000, this painting will no doubt have many other admirers when it goes under the gavel on Thursday 2nd January, in our first auction of the new year.
Research shows that the music we loved as teenagers bonds to our brains in a way that activates emotions, stirs deep-rooted memories and uplifts our mood. This phenomenon, known as ‘neural nostalgia’ leaves a lasting emotional imprint. Just as the sounds of our youth shape our sense of self and provide joy and comfort, visual experiences can evoke a similar sense of nostalgia and connection, grounding us in the present while connecting us to the past.
Recently, I revisited Standen, an Arts and Crafts house in Sussex designed by Philip Webb. Built in the 1890s, Webb took inspiration from the natural landscape and incorporated medieval farm buildings on the site into his design. Despite these ancient influences, Standen was built as a thoroughly modern home, complete with central heating and electricity.
I first visited Standen as a teenager and was struck by both its beauty and the ideals that inspired it. Returning to it now, after more years than I care to admit, I felt an unexpectedly deep emotional response. I realised just how much this place had shaped my own sense of design and aesthetic preferences. Early experiences, after all, have a deeply profound impact on us, far beyond the fleeting trends and ‘influencers’ we see online. Much like listening to a favourite song from my youth, stepping into Standen felt grounding and familiar. Even the smallest of details are considered – the naturalistic wallpapers, beautifully designed wooden furniture and nature-inspired textiles are a strong connection to the past. For me, these interiors go beyond just visual appeal; they evoke a sense of ease and emotional warmth that is deeply satisfying.
At its heart, the Arts and Crafts movement was a reaction to the industrial excesses of the Victorian era. Rather than focusing on opulence, it celebrated handcraftsmanship, simplicity and materials that carried a tactile, authentic quality. William Morris and contemporaries like Philip Webb and CFA Voysey believed that the best design wasn’t about ornamentation for ornamentation’s sake but about creating a visually restful space that encouraged introspection –a philosophy that resonates with today’s search for calm and authenticity in our homes.
If the Arts and Crafts movement was initially a reaction against industrialisation, its revival today could be seen as a response to digitisation. The principles of the movement – quality over quantity, timeless craftsmanship and natural beauty – are as relevant now as they were then. Today’s designers who draw on Arts and Crafts principles remind us of the value of simplicity and quiet moments, such as the comforting tick of a clock or a sunny window seat. The effect is a home that feels not merely decorated but truly lived in, with a history and story of its own. By choosing natural materials, patterns inspired by nature and leaning into craftsmanship, we can create spaces that feel familiar and restorative, like the favourite songs we return to for comfort. It is a reminder that our homes, like our memories, should reflect our truest selves.
bridporttimber.co.uk
Morris & Co. - Fruit
Farrow and Ball - Hegemone 5706
Morris & Co. - Leicester
Wallpapers at Standen: Morris & Co. - Pimpernel
SHERBORNE GOOD NEIGHBOURS
Words Claire Bowman
Photography Katharine Davies
If giving back were an Olympic sport, Sherborne Good Neighbours would top the medals table.
Over the past year, its bank of 75 volunteers has undertaken more than 2,000 journeys between them, clocking up 25,000 miles as they’ve taken people to surgeries, dentists, clinics and hospitals as far away as Southampton – even running garden waste to the recycling centre and Christmas cards to the Post Office.>
Fiona Ashley Miller, Mike and Christine Hatch
Retired teacher Micky and volunteer Nigel
‘Ninety per cent of the requests we receive are for transport but we’ll also help with collecting prescriptions, shopping, sharing some time over a coffee or changing a lightbulb – anything that will make a difference for people who are elderly, sick or can’t drive,’ says Mike Hatch, the group’s chairman.
Previously a teacher at Sherborne School and Head of Sandroyd, last year Mike received the Mervyn Smith Community Champion Award in recognition of his voluntary work for Sherborne Good Neighbours, the local Rotary Club and the Yeatman Hospital. ‘Soon after we retired, my wife, Christine, joined Good Neighbours as a ‘Link’ back in 2005, co-ordinating the volunteers. I followed two years later as treasurer, before becoming chairman in 2017. Throughout, we have been fortunate to have a fantastic group of volunteers and an outstanding team of Links. In addition, we have received generous support from Sherborne Town Council, the Rotary Club of Sherborne Castles, Sherborne Classics & Supercars and many other local groups and businesses.’
One in a national network of 125 Good Neighbour schemes, powered by 4,000 community-minded volunteers, the Sherborne initiative was set up more than 37 years ago by the then Vicar of Sherborne, Robert Willis, through Sherborne Churches Together. The approach is the same as it ever was – anyone in need of help can call one of the six Links listed on the Good Neighbours card that is distributed around Sherborne every December. The Links in turn will ring around the bank of volunteers until they find someone who is free to help. Remarkably, somebody always is.
‘I happen to be the first name on the list and most people start at the top, but if they can’t get hold of me for whatever reason, they just ring the next person,’ explains Fiona Ashley Miller, who has been a volunteer since 2020. Fiona will take over as chairperson from Mike when he steps down this month. ‘We don’t have an office – all our Links work from home – so there has to be patience on all sides as the volunteers have other commitments, but even if it takes up to ten calls, we won’t rest until we’ve been able to match them.
‘Our volunteers like the flexibility of the scheme because they can fit it in around family, jobs and holidays, and the people who require a little help do benefit enormously from knowing they have a trustworthy and friendly face they can rely on, especially if they are feeling a bit lonely. Mike’s wife Christine, who is our longest-serving Link, has a lovely reputation
because she’ll always find time to chat with people – as I speak, she’s dropping off a prescription for a lady in Longburton. And we’re delighted that Mike is staying on as a volunteer after he steps down as chair because they make a brilliant team.’
Having volunteered for the Samaritans in the past, Fiona brings a calm, caring presence to the role and, as former owner of The Present Finder in Sherborne, has plenty of customer service experience to draw on. ‘We do have to let people know that we are not a taxi service – Sherborne has several excellent taxi firms for that – but we are happy to assist anyone, of any age, who needs our help and doesn’t have access to their own transport,’ she says, pointing out that customers must be registered with a Sherborne GP to qualify for help and are charged 45p a mile (the HMRC standard) to cover fuel expenses. ‘Most of our requests come from older sections of the community but we have also taken young mums and their children to clinics.
‘Some of our volunteers love the longer journeys – they enjoy meeting new people and getting out and about. A couple of weeks ago one of the team volunteered to drive a lady to Poole every day, picking her up at 8.30am for her chemotherapy treatment. The lovely thing with volunteering is that all these people want to give something back.’
One volunteer is retired IT manager Nigel, who, in Fiona’s words, ‘exudes kindness and friendliness’ and has been volunteering with Good Neighbours since 2018. ‘I’ve been very lucky with my life: I’ve had a very good childhood and a wonderful marriage, and this is my way of repaying some of that good luck. Plus, I like to think I get along with people very easily, in the same way that I’m good with animals. I also like to be busy,’ Nigel tells me as he prepares to take his third customer of the week, 92-year-old Micky, to his morning dental appointment.
A Classics teacher at Leweston until retiring only this September after an incredible 68 years of teaching, Micky has found Good Neighbours a lifeline since recently giving up his car. ‘It’s coincided with eye appointments and Covid and flu jabs, so it’s been wonderful to be able to pick up the phone and know that someone will be able to take me,’ he says, his little white terrier Dave sitting obediently at his feet. ‘I can’t sing their praises highly enough.’
For Pat and her husband Raymond who live off the Bradford Road, the scheme has been nothing short of a godsend. ‘Ray has been very poorly recently and unable to drive so knowing that I can ring up and >
Volunteer Tony with Pat and Raymond
Volunteer Alison and Sally
a friendly voice at the end of the phone will organise transport to hospital is wonderful,’ says Pat, whose volunteer Tony has pulled up at their house today with Mabel the Airedale waiting patiently in the back.
‘I sometimes feel a bit greedy asking for help with all Ray’s medical appointments but Fiona tells me that’s exactly what Good Neighbours is there for – to help people who need it.’
Meanwhile, at their bungalow on the Marston Road, Sally and Eddie are welcoming volunteer Alison through the door ahead of a visit to the doctor’s. Having played an active role in Sherborne Chamber of Trade & Commerce and volunteered extensively herself over the years, it seems only fair that the good deeds are finally flowing back in Sally’s direction, and Alison is happy to help. ‘Before I retired, I was Lead Physio at St Margaret’s Hospice and I’ve worked in a caring role all through my career – I have always loved doing my bit for the community,’ explains Alison, her Good Neighbours lanyard hanging proudly around her neck.
‘One of my best memories of the summer is driving a lady in my soft-top car down the dual carriageway to
Yeovil and seeing the smile on her face as the wind blew through her hair. Nothing beats that feeling of giving back. It’s what motivates all of us Good Neighbours; it’s why we do what we do.’
sherbornegoodneighbours.org
To offer your services as a Good Neighbours volunteer, please call Fiona Ashley Miller on 07989 238309 or email: ashleymiller.mf@gmail.com
To ask for help, please call any of these volunteer links between 9am and 6pm giving at least 48 hours notice of your needs. Do not leave messages or texts. Instead, please call one of the other numbers.
Fiona 07989 238309
Monica 01935 813153
Margaret 01935 817306
Christine 01935 815806
Finella 07779 741006
Tina 07990 905626
Volunteer Tony
Open Monday-Saturday 9.00am-6.00pm, Sunday 10.00am-4.30pm (tills open at 10.30am) Castle Gardens, New Road, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 5NR www.thegardensgroup.co.uk @thegardensgroup
Christmas Trees
We have regular fresh deliveries of high-quality Christmas trees available right up until Christmas Eve.
You can choose from Norway Spruce, Noble Fir, Nordmann, Fraser Fir and many more, including our largest ever range of potted trees.
Carry to the car service
Free delivery within 25-miles
Free collection and recycling service
We’re here to help you choose the perfect Christmas tree 7 days a week
& Maintenance
For a free quote contact us at: 01935 478564 | 07976 850 720 colinsmithgardening@outlook.com www.csgardening.uk
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BOXING DAY TO-DOS
Mike Burks, Managing Director, The Gardens Group
Over the years, I have been collating information on folklore surrounding gardening. In my visits to garden clubs, I have picked up lots of local folklore and quite a bit of it that describes chores that need doing on Boxing Day.
Traditionally this will inevitably be to do with limited time off from work in days gone by and so Boxing Day may have been the only opportunity to carry out gardening tasks. In more recent times these chores are stuck to perhaps because the in-laws have decided to stay an extra day and you just need an excuse to get out of the house!
Boxing Day chores include the planting of broad beans. This means varieties such as Aquadulce and The Sutton, and the reason for planting these varieties before the worst of the winter is to get the plants established sufficiently so that they are too tough for the Bean Aphid to munch on or so that it is no longer interested in them at the growth stage they have achieved. The earliest time I have found for broad bean planting is the day after bonfire night, followed by Armistice Day and then the shortest day but Boxing Day is the favourite.
It’s also a time for onion, shallot and garlic planting, although folklore suggests that the shortest day is the more popular day. Harvesting, certainly of onions, should take place on the longest day. Climate change may have messed with the latter date but the planting time is certainly still observed in many gardens.
Perhaps a bit early for most seed sowing, Boxing Day though is a good time to make a list of the seeds one might like to grow in the following year. This is best carried out in the solitude of the greenhouse, preferably with the heater on and maybe a small glass of sherry. Whilst sipping the sherry, you will inevitably realise that the greenhouse glass could do with a bit of a clean and the floor needs a sweep but that, surely, is for another day.
In the fruit garden, Boxing Day is one of the recommended dates for pruning autumn fruiting
raspberries. These varieties grow from the ground and produce flowers and fruit all in one season. (The traditional summer fruiting varieties fruit every year but the growth is on a two-year cycle.) Having the fruit late in the season is an advantage and autumn varieties are increasingly popular with the simplicity of the pruning and the added excuse for getting out in the fresh air after Christmas is a bonus.
Wassailing isn’t a Boxing Day activity normally with the most popular date being the 12th day of Christmas. There are various forms but in the garden,
Natalia Lebedinskaia/Shutterstock
it involves making a lot of noise in the orchard around and amongst the trees using pots and pans and then, with health and safety in mind presumably, the firing of shotguns into the boughs! This is traditionally accompanied by nakedness and a certain amount of tasting of the current cider brew. The benefit to the orchard in all of this is unclear but some sources say that the trees get beaten during the process and this is likely to be a form of pruning. I would prefer the use of secateurs to a shotgun for a better, neater cut. After such pruning, apply Seal and Heal or Medo to the
wounds. I’m talking about the wounds on the trees, not on the revellers who got in the way of the shotgun.
These activities on their own will be enough to get one through at least to Boxing Day lunch by which time you can trudge back to the house, make hard work of taking off the boots, hang up the secateurs and, unless you have been wassailing, take off the gardening clothes before another round of Christmas cheer. Don’t worry – it will soon be spring!
thegardensgroup.co.uk
Open lunch and dinner Wednesday to Saturday, and Sunday lunch
GET JOLLY AT TEALS THIS CHRISTMAS! THIS SEASON, WE’RE CELEBRATING THE BEST OF LOCAL WITH RESPONSIBLY SOURCED FOOD AND GIFTS FULL OF FESTIVE CHEER
You’ll find a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all your seasonal needs. We have something for everyone, with a special selection of eco-friendly gifts and books, delightful stocking fillers and plastic-free cards and wrapping ideas for you to browse.
And of course, food and drink! A wide array of locally produced craft beer, cider and beautifully bottled spirits, as well as shelves of well-priced wine for the party season.
All our Christmas food is thoughtfully sourced and selected for the best in local quality, freshness and flavour. You can order your Christmas meats ahead, too.
Our light and airy restaurant is open all day to restore you with delicious lunches, barista coffee, artisan hot chocolates, tea and cakes.
Come and solve your Christmas under one friendly roof at Teals!
OPENING TIMES
Food Market/Gifting/Food To Go: 8am-6pm 7 days a week 9-23rd December we are open until 8-6pm, 24th December 8-4pm 25th & 26th December CLOSED
Breakfast: Mon-Sat 8-11am & Sun 9-11am
Lunch: 12-3pm 7 days a week
1 Orchard Lane, South Cadbury, Somerset, BA22 7FS
BAKED SALMON WITH CHICORY IN A FESTIVESPICED HONEY GLAZE
This is an easy yet comforting salmon dish that’s perfect for the festive season. Once baked, the salmon becomes beautifully caramelised with the glaze. We enjoy this served simply with some lentils or spuds and seasonal greens.
Ingredients Serves 4
4 salmon fillet portions, skin on but descaled
2 chicory, quartered
150ml white wine
200g runny honey
1 shallot, finely sliced
1 tsp ginger, finely grated (or ginger paste)
2 star anise
2 cloves
1 small cinnamon stick
½ tsp cumin seeds
½ tsp coriander seeds
½ tsp caraway seeds
Sea salt
Olive oil
Method
1 To prepare the glaze, first add the wine and shallot to a medium saucepan, bring to the boil and reduce the liquid by half. Add the honey and spices and cook for a further 5 minutes until you have a sticky glaze. Set aside to let cool completely.
2 Place a large, oven-safe frying pan on a high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and quickly sear each side of the chicory quarters until dark in colour. Remove the pan from the heat and let cool.
3 Add the salmon fillets to the frying pan and drizzle with the glaze. Season generously with salt and mix so that the salmon and chicory are well coated. Ensure that the salmon is skin-side up so it can crisp up in the oven. Place the frying pan in a 180C oven (160C fan) for around 12 minutes or until the fish is just cooked and flaky. Baste the fish and chicory halfway through with the glaze and cooking juices.
4 To serve, remove the larger spices (star anise, cloves and cinnamon) and enjoy!
greenrestaurant.co.uk
Tom Matkevich, The Green Restaurant
liveostockimages/Shutterstock
THE CAKE WHISPERER
CHRISTMAS CHOUX BUNS
Ilearned to make choux pastry when I was at school as a teenager. I took Domestic Science, as it was called back then, and I am so glad I did. It allowed me to learn so many skills I have used throughout my life.
My children have always loved my choux buns, served piled up into a tower and topped with homemade chocolate sauce. I’ve been thinking about a new Christmas variation and this recipe will tick many boxes. The recipe includes the quick and easy mincemeat I developed for the time I was on the GBBO – both Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith said, ‘It’s the taste of Christmas.’ If you make up one quantity of the mincemeat, it will be sufficient for you to make this recipe and mince pies too.
Makes 16-18 small buns allow 2-3 per serving
Preparation for the buns: 90 minutes (includes 15 minutes cooling time), for the mincemeat: 20 minutes to prepare and 40 minutes cooking time, assembly time: 10 minutes.
For the mincemeat filling
What you will need
A large pan, jars for packing, a stick blender or a mini blender
Ingredients
(You can of course use a jar of shop-bought mincemeat. Just make sure it’s a butter-based and not suet)
2 medium-sized Bramley apples, around 150g when peeled
150g light brown sugar
150ml cider
Zest and juice of 1 small orange
Zest and juice of 1 small lemon
30g unsalted butter
100g raisins
25g pre-soaked Californian prunes, chopped
50g dried cherries, chopped
50g dried cranberries, chopped
150g sultanas
1 teaspoon mixed spice
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
3 tablespoons brandy
3 tablespoons orange liqueur
(For an alcohol-free version use 6 tablespoons of freshly squeezed orange juice instead)
Method
1 Peel and grate the apples and place in a large pan with the brown sugar, cider, zest and juice of the orange and lemon. Stir well and place on a medium heat.
Image: Katharine Davies
Val Stones
Gradually bring to the boil, then turn down to simmering, stirring frequently until the apples are soft.
2 Add the butter, dried fruits and spices to the pan, stir well and simmer until thickened (about 30-40 minutes).
3 Remove from the heat and allow to cool completely. Once cool, stir in the brandy and the orange liqueur or the orange juice.
4 The mincemeat can be packed into jars or into fridge containers until needed. You can make this ahead of time and let it mature or use it straight away. The finished buns are lightly dusted with icing sugar, reminiscent of snow.
For the buns
What you will need
A medium-sized saucepan, wooden spoon, spatula, electric hand mixer, 2 baking sheets lined with parchment or silicone mats
Ingredients
60g whole milk
90g water
80g unsalted butter
3 teaspoons sugar
Pinch of salt
110g strong bread flour
170g egg, beaten
Method
1 Place the milk, water, butter and sugar in the pan and allow to come to the boil. Stir in the pinch of salt and the flour and beat to a paste with the wooden spoon.
3 Set the oven to 220C/200C fan/gas mark 8.
2 Transfer the flour mixture into a bowl with the spatula and beat well, leave to cool for 10-15 minutes.
4 With the hand mixer/stand mixer set on slow, gradually add the beaten egg into the flour mixture a little at a time. Continue to beat until the mixture is sticky and glossy – it will take about 5 minutes. The mixture is ready when it slides off a spoon easily.
5 Using a teaspoon, drop a heaped spoonful of the batter onto the baking sheet. Space well apart – aim to fit 8 to a tray so they have room to puff up.
6 Place in the oven and after 14 minutes turn the oven down to 190C/170C fan/gas mark 4-5, continue to cook for 8-10 minutes. They are ready when they are golden brown and crisp to the touch. Remove from the oven and place on a cooling rack.
To assemble
6 heaped tablespoons of mincemeat, blitzed until smooth
300ml double cream
Icing sugar to dust
Sprig or two of holly for the serving plate
1 Place the cream in a bowl and beat until it stands in soft peaks when the beaters are lifted.
2 Stir the mincemeat lightly into the cream so that there are streaks of mincemeat through the cream.
3 Slice each bun open and fill with the cream mixture, pile them onto a serving plate, add the holly and dust with icing sugar.
Happy Christmas everyone. May the new year bring us all health, peace and contentment.
bakerval.com
CHRISTMAS ENTERTAINING
EXTRAVAGANZA
Joanna Weinberg, Teals
Family and gatherings, eating, drinking, gamesplaying, telly-watching, chocolate-scoffing, present-opening, menu-making, table-setting, present-wrapping. So much fun to be had, so much fun to be made. But oh! The busyness of it all!
We’ve had a crack through the store for ideas to take the effort out of entertaining. If you can get out of the kitchen and onto the sofa with a cocktail and a box of truffles, it will all be worth it.
Christmas Eve
What did Adam say to his wife the night before Christmas? ‘It’s Christmas, Eve!’
Keep things simple the night before:
To start: Fresh and finest cold-smoked ChalkStream trout, grown in the clear chalk streams of Hampshire. Serve with fresh blinis and Hurdlebrook Farm’s unmatchable crème fraiche. For a quick cucumber pickle to offer alongside, douse thinly sliced cucumbers in rice vinegar, a pinch of caster sugar and a splash of soy sauce then leave to sit for at least 30 minutes. Pat off the pickle liquid and top with fronds of dill.
If you’re keeping your salmon for the following day, antipasti could be just the thing: a sharing board always looks brilliant on the table. The Real Cure, Dorsetbased award-winning British meat curers offer various platter options which include fennel and white pepper salami and Hartgrove coppa wild venison chorizo. Add
to this some Olives et Al marinated olives and slices of firm cheeses such as Cornish Kern. For some mouthpuckering tartness to balance the flavours, we love Cultjar’s celeriac, capers and tarragon pickle. Breakin Bread’s shards of Scandi-style crackers will complete an elegant picture.
For dinner: Maison Arguad’s jars of traditional cassoulet make it possible to simply tip into a casserole, top with fresh breadcrumbs and bake at 180C until crisp and bubbling. Serve with a bitter and peppery green salad such as Wild Garden’s deep green winter leaves shot through with purple radicchio, dressed with a quick, sharp vinaigrette of olive oil, lemon juice and Dijon mustard.
And for pud: It’s never too cold for ice cream. Christmas flavours from locals Baboo are brandy gelato, crystalised ginger, rum and raisin, and from Brickells, the sensational cinnamon toast. Otherwise, a bowlful of chocolate-covered nuts and truffles from The Chocolarder, our favourite handcrafted bean-tobar chocolate makers in Cornwall, are sinfully good (and make great presents, too). For both decorative and delicious sweetmeats to have out on the table with coffee, consider What a Date candied orange stuffed dates and Ozerlat’s delicately scented Turkish Delight –a world away from the tooth-coating, chocolate-dipped one of your childhood. >
ChalkStream cold-smoked trout blinis
Baboo's crystalised ginger gelato
Cultjar’s celeriac, mustard, tarragon and capers pickle
Stichelton from Cheesemaker Joe Schneider
Having Drinks?
To Nibble: A giant tin of Perello olives – tender, mild, classic and enough in the tin to get you through the season. For variety, decant them into bowls and grate over a little lemon and orange zest or toss with freshly chopped coriander and chilli. Big tins of crisps are all the rage for a classy yet casual air; try Two Farmers or Savoursmith.
For more substantial party eats, be a little wary of dips – they get very messy-looking quite quickly and not so good on the germ sharing (double dippers, we are watching you). Loaded crostini can be a good way to go. To make a big batch at home, start with a few loaves of par-baked baguettes and slice into halfcentimetre rounds. Toss with a little olive oil and roast in the oven until just turning golden, about 10 minutes.
Fishy toppings work well: ChalkStream smoked trout terrine for fancy or for homespun, roughly mash pilchards (we love the tins from The Pilchard Works) with butter, lemon and a touch of miso paste. Top with lemon zest and a shake of smoked paprika. For veggies, a smear of Seggiano’s excellent pesto and an IOW slow-cooked tomato will see you right.
Other rustic bites? Pâté de campagne and mousse de canard on torn crusty bread will be excellent whatever you are offering on the drinks front.
Boxing Day and Beyond
Don’t you agree that the best Christmas food is what’s leftover? Here are some thoughts for jazzing up yours: For almost instant curry, Nonya’s Secret curry sauces taste homemade. Fresh and fragrant, just stir in your
torn turkey (check label instructions – some need water or coconut milk) and warm through. To zhush up a classic cold spread, Old School House chutneys made just across the border in Somerset are perfect. We love the green tomato, curried pear and also the piccalilli alongside Sam the butcher’s house-cured gammons. Boil in spiced apple juice before roasting.
If you fancy sending your cold cuts in a spicier direction, choose from Cultjar’s Thai carrot and coconut pickle, Weymouth 51’s hot sauces and The Single Variety Co’s excellent selection of chilli jams and jellies (make mine one of their oversized 1.25kg jars. What a gift!). Or all of them, of course.
The all-important cheese board: Both Stichelton (an unpasteurised and frankly more interesting neighbour to Stilton) is all sweet, creamy tanginess and truffled Baron Bigod both hit just the right notes whilst still being a bit original. Complete with a large wedge of interesting local cheddar (we vote for Montgomery extra mature) with quince paste to mellow and sweeten; you’ll find some on our cheese counter. On the cracker front, you can’t fault the Fine Cheese Co’s toasts for cheese, speckled with nuts and fruit and just the right amount of snap (as Pru would say). The Nibs makes a notable new entry onto the shelves with their crunchy upcycled crackers made with 25% pulp from Englishpressed apples.
Done? Phew! And now, stop eating for at least a month.
teals.co.uk
Time for Celebrations
Join us for your family and team celebrations as we ring in the season – it’s our favourite time of year! 2 courses £39 // 3 courses £45
Our Festive Set Menu will be served Wednesday – Friday at lunch and Wednesday – Thursday at dinner, from 27th November.
Time for Tea
Take a break from shopping for a delicously bite-sized taste of the festivities. Our stunning Festive Afternoon Tea is served between 2pm and 4pm on Saturdays and Sundays from 30th November to 22nd December // £40pp
Jazz
In a smooth start to the holidays, our final Jazz Night of 2024 is on Thursday 19th December. Book online or give us a call.
2025!
Is it too early to think about the New Year? Well, there’s plenty to look forward to, starting with our great value set menu, launching on 3rd January. Ready, ‘Set’, Go!
Time together is time well spent - check our website for Christmas opening hours.
THE KITCHEN GARDEN DECEMBER
Jules Horrell, Horrell & Horrell
After a restful few days, we are sat by the fire, tea in hand, and it’s hard to believe we are already writing our last journal entry of 2024. The last month has seen us harvest the last of the apples, all of which were safely delivered to Hecks in Street who produced almost 200 bottles of juice for us. Hecks is one of the oldest cider makers in Somerset and a wonderful community asset. Like us, many locals gather their apples and take them in to be pressed – some just receiving 12 bottles back, and others in excess of 1,000.
In the kitchen garden, Laura our gardener has been diligently sowing masses of seeds, all of which are now germinating in the greenhouse. The beds have been mulched ready for spring planting. Not only will we grow all our own table flowers next year but also posies and bouquets to sell to our guests.
The hens are all now laying and thoroughly enjoying any garden excesses of chard and brassicas. They also love leftover spaghetti – a rather comical sight as they
compete for the last strands.
One of the major tasks this month was foraging for our festive displays. We have gathered plenty of greenery, dogwood, ivy and berries from our woodland and hedgerows, all of which have been used to make swathes and garlands for inside the barn. Logs are stacked high for the wood burners and our freshly cut Christmas tree from Derryn at Vale of Camelot Growers is safely installed and festooned with fairy lights.
One of our favourite dishes over this festive period is sprouts. Steve loathed sprouts as a child until he came up with a recipe to make them taste, well, not like sprouts! This will be served on our table throughout December and is always a crowdpleaser. We serve it alongside hot potato and honey flatbreads. We hope you love it as much as we do.
Wishing you all a joyous and restful Christmas from Family Horrell x.
Images: Dave Watts
Ingredients
500g Brussels sprouts (try Cam’s at Off-grid
Organics here in Sparkford if you can)
1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
2 teaspoons of coriander seeds
2 small red onions
1 head of fennel
Olive oil
1 teaspoon sesame seeds
200g Greek-style yoghurt
1 teaspoon tahini
1 clove of garlic
1 lemon
1 teaspoon sea salt
1⁄2 teaspoon of sumac
1⁄2 bunch of leady coriander, dill and mint
Method
1 Preheat the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6.
2 Bring a large pan of salted water to the boil and cook the sprouts in boiling water for 3 minutes. Drain and set aside to dry.
3 Toast the cumin and coriander seeds until fragrant. Using a pestle and mortar, finely grind the toasted seeds with sea salt.
4 Toss the sprouts in the spice mix, reserving a teaspoon for later use.
5 Slice the onions and fennel. Tip into the tray along with a splash of oil.
6 Spread everything out on the tray and roast for 20 mins or until caramelised.
7 Toast the sesame seeds and hazelnuts then grind up with the remaining spices, again using a pestle and mortar.
8 Mix the yoghurt with the tahini, adding the peeled and crushed garlic. Finely grate in half the lemon zest and squeeze in half the juice.
9 Spread the yoghurt thickly onto a large serving platter and sprinkle the sumac over the top.
10 Spoon the sprouts on top of the yoghurt, not forgetting all the lovely crispy bits from the pan. Sprinkle the ground nuts and seeds over the top.
11 Scatter the herbs over the plate to garnish then serve to share.
horrellandhorrell.co.uk
‘A visit to Horrell & Horrell is like going to a friend for dinner, where you bring a bottle, relax, enjoy the food, and let conversation flow –whilst we take care of everything else’
Open every Friday and Saturday evening for dinner, and on Sunday’s for lunch
To reserve a space at a dining experience or to chat about private hire of the barn, please visit
www.horrellandhorrell.co.uk
BAGFULS OF HOPE
Giles Henschel, Co-Founder, Olives Et Al
Gin has a lot to answer for. As does a Hells Angel on Kefalonia. Now that the nights have drawn in, clocks have gone back and evening fires have become a necessity, not a whim, Annie and I have the chance to reflect on our 100-day, 10,000mile odyssey across much of the olive-growing areas of Europe to discover, at first hand, how the changing climate patterns are affecting the harvests – and deliver a bottle of gin on the way.
Over our time away, we certainly saw much to be despondent about – abandoned farms, untended trees and empty reservoirs but a few days in Spain, just as the harvest was about to start, gave us real hope and re-balanced the gloom scales.
Our host, Paco, is the ninth generation of his family to farm the estate that, today, comprises some 2,000 hectares. (That’s around 5,000 football pitches if you’re struggling to envisage just how colossally big that is.) It’s home to around 330,000 olive trees. This is no hobby farm but a mighty serious business that Paco, now 65, is determined to see through to the tenth generation. We meet at the new mill – outside, elegant stone. Inside, gleaming stainless steel – tanks cleaned and empty, awaiting the start of the harvest in a few days. We follow a route that imagines we were olives – first step: the intake hoppers – airconditioned to keep the olives as cool as possible. Next, the hammer mill, where the olives are crushed
and turned to a thick pulp and onwards to malaxation, a gentle massaging of the paste to help the oil globules come together before being spun at high speed to drive off the waste pulp and water, leaving only the oil. Finally, giant filters to remove any impurities before the oil is decanted into the huge tanks to await bottling. All is quiet now but in a week or so, once the harvest starts in earnest, the place will run 24 hours a day until the harvest is done.
We climb into Paco’s old Land Cruiser and bump our way around the estate – Paco punching my arm to emphasise a point here or view there. I’ve come to realise that the Spanish do a lot of punching when they talk to you – it’s almost a nervous tic but it does tend to make you pay attention. Driving through seemingly never-ending rows of olive trees – all fully laden with olives – we round a corner and come to an area which has been cleared to make way for solar panels.
‘I hated having to clear this area. I don’t like to move the trees – it’s where they were born. But, we needed to do it.’
He leans in, conspiratorially and punching me harder than before, and says,
‘Now I show you my genius and you will be astonished.’
Fine, I thought – just so long as you don’t punch me anymore. Paco aims at a steep bank ahead, guns the engine, we lurch up and I see that the bank forms the
edge of a huge reservoir. The genius bit is clear to see. Paco has covered most of the surface with floating solar panels, gently angled to point at the sun.
‘See! Behold my genius! Tell me how genius I am!’ I have to concede, this is a really good idea – no need to move any trees and covering the surface helps prevent evaporation loss. Paco beams at me and lands an extra solid one before heading back down the bank and lunch. Now, I know this is in the food and drink section but I’m loath to share the details of what we ate – it was just too Spanish for words but, to offer a glimpse, I can still taste the Marcona almonds freshly toasted and drizzled with olive oil and olorosso and as for the suckling pig, I think I might still be drooling.
Lunch reluctantly drew to a close around 5ish and, very well fed, we climbed back into the saddles and waddled our way onwards feeling very replete and content with the world – surely a better place with Paco and his stewardship of the family groves.
Our next stop was possibly one of the most inspiring days I’ve ever had in over 30 years of working with olives. One of our contacts in Spain, Alfonso, had told us of the World Olive Bank in Cordoba – a research facility with over 1200 varieties of olive trees from 29 different countries. Spread across 20 hectares, there are olive trees from Peru, Chile, Syria, Turkey, Egypt, Albania, Croatia, Greece, Italy, Iran, Morocco, Argentina, the USA and Spain all living and thriving side by side.
Frank, the lead agronomist, leads us around and introduces us to varieties never normally seen – the pure white Belica, the impossibly shaped Zarza, the Syrian Shamy. It’s October and the trees are in full fruit – each displaying a sign prohibiting the picking of them.
‘Ach. Ignore that. Take one from every tree you pass,’ says Frank, doing the Spanish Thing, punching me on the arm by way of encouragement and insistence.
It’s too good an opportunity to pass up and we gleefully skip from row to row giggling like kids in a sweet shop. Briskly purple Cornicabra, huge green Sorani, tiny Arbequina and many more besides go into our bag. We head to the greenhouse, where the nursery is cultivating cuttings as part of a study into drought and disease resistance. Another building houses a tiny olive crushing and milling plant where they are researching yields from hybrid varieties created specifically with the future climate in mind – the one being studied is Chiquitita, a cross between a Picual and Arbequina - blending the properties of both into a variety that will adapt well to hedge-style planting. Something that we will see more and more of – both because of the changing climate and pressure caused by a lack of willing labour.
To see so many varieties of olive, all growing side by side and being studied with such reverence really makes the heart sing and we are so grateful to have been given the chance to visit and create a long-standing relationship. We leave with our bag full of olives, determined to bring them back with us.
Climate patterns are definitely not what they were, but, Spain really is leading the way in working out how to adapt to these changing conditions and, having had the chance to reflect on everything we saw and conducting over 80 interviews with people on the ground, we remain positive and upbeat.
The olive is not done yet.
So, what had been hatched as a plan to deliver a bottle of olive brine gin to a chubby Hells Angel on a beach on Kefalonia really did develop into something a little more meaningful. Fat Oddy got his gin. We got our olives. We rode. We rested. We went again and, largely, we avoided the enemy.
olivesetal.co.uk
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A MONTH
ON THE FARM
James Hull, The Story Pig
How can it possibly be December? That’s my first thought as I work out which month we are writing about. I sit in our barn on a gloomy November evening. It’s just gone 5pm and it’s dark as a bag outside. Inside, I sit in our winter cafe – all around me, Christmas lights twinkle softly, the heaters burble away quietly and our bunting gently waves as the heat rises. Candles flicker and Lily, our cat, stretches out on a warm bench. It’s pizza evening and I am suitably dressed – apron on and my customer head on. Much like Worzel Gummidge, I have two heads – my ‘overalls/ farm work/gate shut’ head and then my ‘cafe/customer’ head, where all questions can be answered and most requests hopefully accommodated! We await our first customers of the evening. I write while Charlotte readies
herself, getting all her ingredients prepped for the hours ahead. The pizza oven roars away behind her, looking inviting on a cool November evening.
So looking backwards to November – it has been the driest November I can remember, trying its best to make up for the terribly wet months of September and October that brought everything to a halt. Since then, I have been almost glued to the digger seat – as it’s been dry, dark times are no barrier. Lights on, I swirl round and round, like a lighthouse, until almost dizzy. Levelling the huge heap of topsoil back around our new pond, shaping and sculpting the soil to give soft curves and gentle slopes. Just today, I have finally finished and the digger can be moved to the next area to be worked on. It’s been a good few weeks, productive and satisfying.
Finally, some jobs finished and ticked off the list.
We have also trimmed all the lavenders into perfectly shaped balls, putting them to bed for another season. It’s a back-breaking job that is only going to get longer as we have added another 3500 to the 1000 we had originally. There is going to be a lot of lavender here soon. It’s still my favourite job of the year though. The calmness of gently clipping away is so satisfying… until I put my head up and see how many there are left to trim. We even managed to plant 900 tiny plug plants outside in our new lavender garden, unheard of at this time of year normally, but our weather is not normal anymore – the ground was still warm. We will keep our fingers crossed for them to survive until they can grow away in the spring. For context, they are the size of half your thumb, planted into a compost grit mix. Hopefully, they won’t drown.
And then to look forward to Christmas and a new year – to longer days and signs of spring. We have our cafe Christmas tree up, the tipi dripping with baubles and even more lights. Charlotte and I will battle over when we should start to play Christmas songs, guess who wants to play them in November!
As the month of December rolls on and Charlotte’s list of Christmas orders grows and grows, her unique system of knowing where everyone’s order is in the fridge is tested to the limit as they come to collect. When a husband comes to pick up and gives a different name for collection, we scurry around trying to find this new name, the feeling of dread when we think we have forgotten someone’s Christmas order. Eventually, he gives us the correct name, we find the order and we can all relax – it all works out in the end. Customers leave laden with Story Pig gammons and sausages and lavender products made here at the farm.
As Christmas draws upon us and we close our doors or, in our case, gates, on the 22nd December, we will pull off our ‘customer’ heads, wrap them carefully in brown paper and put them under the stairs until some time in January. My ‘gate-shut’ head will be firmly on, along with my wellies and overalls – a chance for us to take stock and catch up, to draw breath and look forward. So, it’s Happy Christmas to everyone and all our lovely customers. See you all again on the other side!
thestorypig.co.uk
PIZZA NIGHTS AT THE STORY PIG EVERY FRIDAY 5-8PM
Please pre-order
Saturday–Sunday 10am–3pm Friday pizza night 5pm-8pm
Lavender Keepers
Sandford Orcas
Sherborne DT9 4FG thestorypig.co.uk
Get in touch with James or Charlotte 07802 443 905 info@thestorypig.co.uk
Kingston Veterinary Group Unit 5B, Coldharbour Business Park
The Forum, Abbey Manor Park, Yeovil, Somerset BA21 3TL
Mon-Fri 8.30 - 18.00 Sat 08.30 - 12.30
T: 01935 421177 (24 hours)
E: yeovil@kingstonvets.co.uk
AWAY IN A MANGER
Mark Newton-Clarke MAVetMB PhD MRCVS, Newton Clarke Veterinary Surgeons
The month before Christmas is a busy one for many, even more so in the USA with Thanksgiving in late November. When Tracey and I were living in upstate New York back in the 1990s, we never quite worked out the dynamics between the two celebrations. Our confusion was only increased by hearing ‘Happy Holidays’ instead of ‘Happy Christmas’!
Back then, I was working at Cornell University’s vet school and like all veterinary hospitals, there was no such thing as a Christmas holiday for most of the staff, especially the interns and residents who ran the day-today caseload. As I was then working with large animals, the days (and nights) were spent looking after cows and calves, horses and foals, with a few pigs, goats, llamas and camels thrown in for variety. The hospital barns were a bit old-fashioned for the 1990s but every in-patient had its own strawed-down enclosure big enough to move freely and certainly plenty of room to give us caregivers the run-around if our patient didn’t want to be restrained. Unfortunately, a level of restraint is essential to perform a clinical examination or take a blood sample, which is just as true in small animal medicine as in large. For me, the key was always about how that restraint was applied, strong-arm or softly-softly. And guess what, I always chose the softly-softly approach (and still do!). Ok, our nurses at the clinics in Sherborne and Yeovil can gently hold a 25kg Labrador but a 500kg cow or horse is a bit different. Then, as now, bribery can get you a long way. So it was mints for the horses, apples for the cattle and more recently, Schmackos for the dogs (cats get Dreamies!).
In the weeks just before Christmas 1992, a big storm dropped feet of snow over the North Eastern USA, closing roads and mobilising the National Guard. These heavily armed troopers guarded highway intersections, ensuring nobody tried to drive as when officially closed, road use was illegal and car insurance suspended. At the time, Tracey and I lived 3 or 4 miles from Cornell so my bicycle journey to the vet school was replaced with cross-country skiing. I had only begun learning how to
use the pencil-narrow skis the previous winter and so was still a complete novice. Ever tried turning a corner on cross-country skis? Yeah, the winter biathletes make it look easy but it ain’t!
The fact was, most of the staff doing the feeding, watering and mucking out at the vet school couldn’t travel to work so all my in-patients needed not only veterinary attention but routine husbandry as well. So off I set from our little shack in the woods, skis on my feet, balaclava and goggles on my head and about 5 layers of clothing to get to the vet school no matter what. Well, despite the -20C temperature, after 20 mins of trudging along in deep snow, I was starting to boil. Off came the headgear, followed closely by various layers until I was down to a T-shirt and gloves. Passing an arctic-equipped trooper at a road junction, I wished him good morning (he did look
Hannmo/Shutterstock
a bit surprised) and cracked on at about 2mph to the large animal clinic, where my patients awaited.
One young heifer had been in the clinic for a week or so with an ailment that had defied diagnosis, confounding the greatest minds in cattle medicine, my professors Bill Rebhun and Tom Divers. I can’t remember the heifer’s name but for some reason, we had made a connection and during medicine rounds, I would tickle her chin and she would try to lick me. Ever been licked by a cow? Their tongues are more abrasive than cats’. Anyway, heifer and I had a liking for each other so when I needed to take her temperature or collect a blood sample, she was so compliant that we became an ‘item’ in the large animal clinic. OK, so maybe I looked in on her between times just to make sure she had enough feed (or perhaps a little extra). After several days of total snow-in, I had not managed
to get home (still dodgy on the skis) so sleep had been an hour or two snatched on a couch in a deserted office at the large animal clinic. No matter, my favourite heifer seemed remarkably happy so we spent more time together. When the storm passed a few days before Christmas and staff returned as the roads were cleared of snow, on Christmas Eve, I was found snoozing in the heifer’s stall on a bed of fresh straw, her by my side. And the best Christmas present I had that year was my bovine friend having nothing more than a bout of indigestion, something that was about to afflict me!
But hopefully not you or your pets this Christmas! All of our staff in Yeovil and Sherborne wish our clients and all readers of the Sherborne Times a very Happy Christmas and New Year.
SUSTAINABLE FARMING
A VET’S VIEW
When it comes to farms, sustainability is not a one-size-fits-all solution and as a vet, visiting lots of different farms, you soon realise why. There are so many different farming systems, each farmer has their own goals for them, their business and their families. Sustainable dairy farming is not just about reducing emissions - it’s about creating a balanced, resilient system that supports the farm, the animals and the environment for future generations. Our role as vets has primarily been focused on improving farm sustainability through improvements in animal health and welfare, leading to increased feed efficiency and production. It is crucial that animal health and welfare will still be our primary focus but by taking a more holistic overview of our client’s farms, we can help tailor advice to each specific farm to improve their sustainability.
I am both a vet and a dairy farmer so have experience from both sides of the fence. We have been starting to focus on sustainability on our farm over the past few years. Personally, I think it’s important that farms set goals for the direction they want their businesses to go in. We have been thinking about this on the farm and have set the following ‘sustainability and business goal’:
‘We want to leave the land in better shape for future generations by improving soil health, biodiversity, reducing our environmental impact and at the same time remaining profitable and productive with healthy, happy animals so
we can support both our own families and the families of the people we employ.’
To help achieve the goals we joined the sustainable farming incentive (SFI) scheme as a pilot farm. Despite a few initial challenges with the scheme, it has helped to provide some framework and funding to improve the farm’s sustainability in terms of land and soil management.
My interest in the ‘Regenerative Farming’ movement started after reading the book by Gabe Brown, Dirt to Soil. This book changed the way I saw things in agriculture and inspired me to do a lot of reading and research to find farming techniques and methods that we could apply on the farm to improve soil health and sustainability.
The main principles of regenerative farming are set out below and I always try and relate what we are planning on the farm to these principles.
• Minimise soil disturbance. Reducing tillage to avoid breaking up soil structure.
• Keep the soil covered. This protects it from rain and heat, prevents erosion and helps to suppress weed growth.
• Maintain living roots in the soil. Plants both introduce biology and feed biology in the soil and prevent soil erosion.
• Maximise plant diversity. Diverse systems are always more resilient in nature. This helps to prevent disease, reduce pest pressure, improve diversity of soil biology and improve nutrient cycling.
John Walsh BVSc MRCVS DBR, Friars Moor Livestock Health
Simon Skafar/iStock
• Reintroduce livestock. Livestock helps improve nutrient cycling, improve biology and can help reduce the need for pesticides. We grow three main crops on the farm and all go to feed the dairy herd. These are grass, wheat and maize. We have used the SFI scheme as a framework for us to think about ways we can integrate the regenerative principles above into how we grow these three main crops. We like to try something new every year and we don’t always get everything right but we try to learn from our mistakes. Here are some examples of how we have used the SFI scheme to help us achieve our goals.
To reduce the amount of soil disturbance, we have been experimenting with growing maize using strip tillage machinery. You are only disturbing the soil in an eight-inch strip where the maize seed is then drilled. The undisturbed soil acts as a reservoir for mycorrhizal fungi and soil biology that can then recolonise the disturbed strips.
To maximise plant diversity, we have stitched in clovers to ryegrass lays to try and reduce the need for artificial fertilisers and improve the diversity of the sward.
To keep the soil covered with living roots we grow
winter wheat after the maize and have introduced mixed species cover crops after the wheat. These cover crops bring additional benefits because we can graze them with our young stock in the spring, providing additional feed for the animals and aiding nutrient cycling in the soil.
We have been able to help wildlife through the scheme and encourage biodiversity by allowing the hedges to be cut every other year to encourage flowering for bees and insects. We were also able to take out some margins for wildflowers, which look amazing from the spring into the summer, and we now see much more butterfly and insect life as a result.
We will continue to experiment each year and have plans to try and grow some type of protein feed on the farm. This will help both improve the diversity of the rotation we grow and increase the amount of homegrown feed we can use. We are currently looking at growing peas and beans for a protein feed for the cows and will have the added benefit of reducing the amount of artificial fertiliser we need for the following crops.
friarsmoorlivestockhealth.co.uk
10% OFF ALL PRODUCT SETS & RETREAT PACKAGES £50 GIFT WHEN YOU SPEND £100 ON VOUCHERS AND, THROUGHOUT THE MONTH OF DECEMBER:
FESTIVE FEELS
Sarah Hitch, The Sanctuary Beauty Rooms
The countdown is on, the diary is filling up and it’s time to see this year out looking and feeling your best.
The power of feeling good in your own skin has a reward like no other. Whether that is you feeling a million dollars as you step out to an event or you feeling relaxed, unwound and at peace with yourself, the selfappreciating effect is the same. To achieve this bliss, take some time out to put the icing on the metaphorical Christmas cake and reward yourself and the end of another busy and unpredictable year.
Receiving a massage is a chance to unwind and mentally check out for some much undervalued ‘me’ time but also undo some often painful tension and stress. Muscular tension that builds in our shoulders, lifting then towards our ears if left untamed, can move up your neck or down your arms, leading to a dull, nagging ache. This constant discomfort not only can lead you to be in pain but often in a really bad mood too!
So get a massage booked regularly if back and neck muscle tension is a regular concern for you, or request a voucher as a present to kick-start your year in a more relaxed state. A massage could also be that treat when you reach a goal or milestone – end of term (or get one in quick before the little cherubs are home!), finishing work for the Christmas break, losing weight, completing a project… there really is no end of reasons why, if medically able, a massage is a great idea.
Pre-Christmas party prep of a refreshed make-up look or a new beautiful product is a cheerful thing just to add to your ‘feeling fabulous’ mantra. A new lip gloss, cheek product or mascara will give you just a little bit of glowy joy every time you use it.
Power up your skincare too, with winter-supportive hydration and lipids to energise your face and skin, therefore avoiding any appearance of dry or dull flakiness. A red carpet facial packs a punch before an event for a dewy, hydrated, smooth and emboldened
you. Add in a non-surgical facelift and you have the ultimate combo for appearance and confidence as a temporary fix unless you have a course of treatment.
Strengthen, smooth and colour your nails for that flash of colour and elegant finish when the corks are popping that will carry you through a couple of weeks. I advise having gel polish applied 2-3 weeks before Christmas events then again fresh before. This allows you to grow under the support of the gel so that you have a little extra glamourous length during the party period.
Relax, embrace and enjoy your festive break with family, friends or in your own company. The slowing of the wheel, a less complicated day and empty inbox is a blessed thing. Start next year as you mean to go on in this mad, complicated world with selfreward and self-care.
Best wishes for a beautiful Christmas.
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HOLIDAY STRESS BUSTERS
Lucy Lewis, Assistant Psychologist & Dorset Mind Ambassador
The holidays can be a wonderful time, but they often bring added stress. From financial pressure to social obligations, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Here are some simple ways to take care of your mental well-being and enjoy a more balanced season.
Block Off Rest Time
In the flurry of holiday activities, we often forget to rest. Between shopping, attending parties and hosting
guests, it’s easy to become burnt out. Blocking off time in your calendar for rest can be a game-changer. This can mean reserving a few evenings or even an afternoon for relaxation, whether it’s reading, watching your favourite show or simply doing nothing. This intentional downtime helps you recharge and reduces the feeling of overwhelm.
Remember: It’s Okay to Say No
The holiday season is full of invitations to parties,
family gatherings and social events. While it can feel like you’re expected to say ‘yes’ to everything, giving yourself permission to say ‘no’ is an empowering act of self-care. If you’re short on emotional energy, time or money, remember that you don’t have to go to every event. Prioritise the gatherings that bring you joy or comfort and let go of any guilt about declining the rest. Your mental wellbeing matters and it’s okay to set boundaries.
Delegate and Share Responsibilities
Holiday preparations often come with a long list of to-dos: buying presents, wrapping, cooking, hosting and cleaning. It can be tempting to try to manage everything on your own, especially if you feel responsible for creating a memorable holiday for your loved ones. However, taking on too much can lead to burnout. Instead, consider setting boundaries and delegating tasks to those around you. This could mean asking family members to help with specific chores, like wrapping gifts or preparing a dish for a holiday meal. If you’re hosting, ask guests to bring a side dish or dessert or designate certain family members to help with the cleanup. By dividing the workload, you not only lighten the load on yourself but also encourage everyone to contribute, fostering a more balanced, enjoyable holiday for everyone.
Plan Ahead for Gifts and Budgets
Gift-giving is often stressful so consider planning early. Make a list, set a budget and shop gradually if possible. Remember, meaningful gifts don’t have to be pricey—a thoughtful note or homemade treat can be just as special.
Manage Expectations and Avoid Comparisons
Social media and movies can make the holidays seem picture-perfect but real life doesn’t need to be flawless to be enjoyable. Avoid comparisons and focus on moments that truly matter. Embracing imperfections can ease stress and create a more authentic holiday experience.
Take Time to Recharge
For those who have family or friends staying with them over the holidays, maintaining personal space can be challenging. Scheduling time to recharge is essential for your mental health, especially if you’re naturally introverted or find social situations tiring. Consider setting aside solo time, like going for a walk, hitting the gym or spending a quiet morning in a cafe. These small breaks can give you a chance to regroup and come back feeling more centred and able to enjoy time with loved ones.
If you are struggling with your mental health, please visit your GP or dorsetmind.uk for resources, support groups, and much more. In a crisis, please call 999 or The Samaritans at 116 123.
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CHRISTMAS PRESENCE
Sandra Miller BSc, MSc, BCNH Dip, FDN-P, Wholistic Health
Encierro/Shutterstock
Joy to the world’, the carol goes. The twinkly lights, the wrapping of gifts for loved ones, the time spent with festive food and drinks around a glowing fire. These idyllic images of how we’d like to make Christmas joyful don’t always match up with how it actually feels. It can be a lot of work to create a beautiful time for friends and family. Life can feel pretty demanding most of the year, which may only ramp up as we head into Christmas.
With the prevalence of ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) and ADHD-like symptoms, we are hearing more about the neurotransmitter, dopamine. Increasingly, people of various ages (not just children) feel they are struggling with inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity, the main features of ADHD, with or without a specific diagnosis. Research has helped us see that dopamine activity may be different for people with ADHD and some ADHD medications seek to
modulate this. However, medications don’t work for everyone and there may be unwanted side-effects to contend with. Dopamine is associated with pleasure and reward. It helps us to regulate emotional responses and is linked to motivation. It enables good decisionmaking and supports working memory.
Pretty much all of us are concerned that a lot of the media people are consuming nowadays fosters inattention. We feel enormously strapped for time and there’s a tsunami of information available only a few taps away on any device. Anyone trying to make a point must grab our attention before we get distracted, we find something else we prefer or we simply get bored. This drives media to be fast-paced and ‘rewarding’ in such a way that taps into our dopamine systems originally intended to make sure we get up to find food, now hijacked to make us scroll on to the next engaging media post. Our systems get overloaded with
stimulation and it dysregulates dopamine. No wonder so many struggle with more inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Here’s the thing: our overloaded systems can leave us feeling lethargic and distinctly lacking in the joy we crave. I think the key phrase here is ‘less is more’. We need to let our dopamine (and many other systems too) recover and find balance which will literally open a gateway to more deep, life-enhancing joy. I’m mindful of not burdening you with yet more that must be fitted into your day and will make some suggestions that save time or are simply a different way of viewing the things you already do. Limiting time on social media is an obvious one but mustn’t be overlooked. Owners of these platforms are very knowledgeable about reward and dopamine and are not at all afraid to use that to their advantage. It will save us time and the research is clear that it will enhance our mental health to impose boundaries on their use. Then there’s the beauty of moving through the everyday in a more mindful way. You’ve got to eat anyway so why not try really tasting the food by allowing all your senses to help you experience the meal? Turn off the TV that would prevent you from really registering the flavours. Whilst walking anywhere I like to take a moment to check in with myself and remember to belly breathe and relax my shoulders. Spending time outdoors is a key strategy shown to significantly reduce signs and symptoms of ADHD. Exposure to natural green spaces is incredibly regulating. Adding in a meditation practice does take time but it is a way of practicing these mindfulness skills so that they become more habitual. I am more than happy to admit that my younger self had no clue how to find stillness. I wasn’t comfortable with it at all. I wasn’t even that bothered about spending time outdoors. Now that I have developed a daily practice that involves nature, it grounds me and I wouldn’t be without it. It has given me a core spirituality that makes cold religion unappealing and redundant.
If we can try one or two moments of mindful present-wrapping, perhaps being thankful for the person for whom we have bought the gift, if we can sip our festive hot chocolate and allow the taste and warmth to really bless us, if we can breathe deeply on the chilly December air looking to the hills and find a moment of awe, then we may well find more joy is the unexpected gift given to us this Christmas.
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KINDNESS FOR LIFE, NOT JUST FOR CHRISTMAS
Dawn Hart, YogaSherborne
We may describe ourselves or others as being kind. But how many of us are consistently kind in all that we do, say and think? When I think carefully I know the answer to this for myself! The act of kindness is often an action in reaction to something that we see or feel. For example, helping someone who falls in front of us or offering support to someone who is ill. It doesn’t have to be someone in our lives; we hear about natural disasters or wars and feel genuine empathy for those affected and may help in different ways. All of this is worthwhile and a positive place to start. But I’m interested to know what it would be like if we were to offer kindness in our actions and thoughts freely and consistently. Rather than holding on to it like a precious gift for someone we feel needs it If we were proactive and offered compassion towards
all people, in fact, all living beings, at every opportunity we got, do you think there could be some benefits for society? For yourself? For the planet as a whole? I think there are and this is why:
When your intentions, actions and thoughts are kind:
• Your brain releases chemicals into your body that make you feel happy, satisfied and more trusting.
• You learn that being kind to yourself does the same thing. This isn’t about being selfless - saying no is sometimes the kindest thing for you.
• You strengthen connections within communities and families making it easier to cope together when the disasters do happen.
• You create a precedent for openness and ease to ask for support yourself when you need it.
• An act of unprompted kindness to a stranger could be
Kouichi Chiba/iStock
the switch that turns their day around helping them to look for positive opportunities themselves.
• By extending this compassion to all living beings, not just people, we acknowledge the interdependence we have with the natural world.
So if this makes sense to you too, maybe we could try this together? Set the intention and look out for the opportunities, they won’t always be obvious. Finding compassion for someone you dislike may be a challenge. Try not to get caught up in the feelings or reasons. Find something however small that will help you focus on their humanity rather than their behaviour. I didn’t say this would be easy! To practise compassion is going beyond feelings and towards a considered intention to help, it is unconditional and limitless.
I try to remember that humans are experts at putting on a brave face. It isn’t always obvious who is in need of your kindness so don’t wait to be shown, just get on with it and let’s see where it takes us. If you would like to use some words to help anchor this for you – here is a short practice you can use:
Settle into a comfortable position, a gentle lift through your spine, breathing comfortably.
When you notice your mind has wandered, return to the words and savour the warm feelings that arise.
Now bring to mind a person or other living being who naturally makes you smile; whomever naturally brings happiness to your heart. You feel warmth and send wishes of happiness towards them. In your mind softly and gently, feeling the meaning of your words, say:
May you be safe. May you be happy. May you be healthy. May you live with ease.
Pause for 1-2 mins
Now think of someone you neither particularly like or dislike. Your feelings are ‘neutral’. This may be someone
you do not know well but see around. Reflect on their humanity and include them in your feelings of friendliness. May you be safe. May you be happy.
May you be healthy. May you live with ease.
Pause for 1-2 mins
Now think of someone you dislike. Try not to get caught up in the feelings or reasons – simply think of them as compassionately as you can and send your kindness to them as well.
May you be safe. May you be happy. May you be healthy. May you live with ease.
Pause for 1-2 mins
Now let the full focus of your attention rest directly on yourself. Visualising your whole body in your mind, notice any stress or unease that may be lingering within you and offer yourself loving kindness.
May I be safe. May I be happy. May I be healthy. May I live with ease.
Pause for 1-2 mins
Now think of all four beings together; yourself, the one that makes you smile, the neutral and the one you dislike. Then extend your feelings further to everyone around you, in your neighbourhood, your town, country and so on throughout the world.
May we all be safe. May we all be happy. May we all be healthy. May we all live with ease.
Take a few breaths and rest quietly.
This was a seed planted during my yoga training and watered by attending a talk with Gelong Thubten, a Buddhist monk and meditation teacher. I am certainly not saying I have this mastered but I do hope this will inspire you to explore further too. A good place to start: Gelong Thubten’s A Monk’s Guide to Happiness.
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FALL PREVENTION
Craig Hardaker BSc (Hons), Communifit
As we enter the final month of the year, we would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. We’ve had another wonderful twelve months and we would like to thank you for all your excellent and muchappreciated support. Roll on 2025!
December brings with it our final event and one of our most popular, the Christmas Sweater 5km/10km charity run. This year the charity run takes place on Sunday 15th December and we are raising funds for Sherborne Food Bank. We hope to see you there, either participating or volunteering, whatever the weather, for a very worthwhile cause.
The winter months can bring plummeting temperatures, ice, snow and falling leaves, which can all lead to the possibility of slippery walking conditions, increasing the risk of a fall. It is said that the majority of falls occur in the winter months, with an estimated 1.6 million elderly people having at least one fall every year in the UK. With these statistics in mind, we need to consider how to reduce the chance of falling, both inside and out, by highlighting some simple yet effective tips.
Try strength training exercises
The stronger we are the less likely we are to fall as our bodies can adapt better to certain situations. We are more able to pick our feet off the ground when walking and can better avoid persistent shuffling in general. We can also react better to unstable scenarios.
Fall-proof your home
Consider making changes to your home that will help prevent falls and better ensure your safety. Many falls occur where we spend much of our time and hence feel
most confident, where we tend to move around without thinking about our safety. One of the most common tips is ensuring there are handrails on both sides of stairs/steps and making sure they are securely fixed. Similarly, avoid ‘floor clutter,’ keeping areas where you walk tidy. Also, ensure you have good lighting and avoid having rugs, which tend to move.
Wear sensible shoes
When out and about, make sure to wear sensible shoes with good grip. Wearing appropriate footwear for severe weather conditions is a simple yet proven method to reduce the chances of falling. We tend to wear our favourite or more fashionable footwear instead of wearing the more practical ones.
Keep moving
Many people stay indoors for long periods when the weather is not so good and understandably so. We should be very wary of severe weather, such as stormy and icy conditions, but the typical dark, dreary winter days shouldn’t necessarily put us off from heading outside. Be prepared to give yourself more time, however, as inclement weather requires even more concentration when out. On the days you can’t go outside, be sure to keep moving in the home. On the hour, every hour –make sure you stand and have a walk around, helping to maintain both confidence and strength.
Our exercise classes help with fall prevention and are available to all residents of the local community. We hope everyone has enjoyable, safe Christmas and New Year celebrations, whether you are staying in or going out! communifit.co.uk
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CHRISTMAS AND FINANCIAL PLANNING
A SEASONAL GUIDE TO FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY
Mark Salter, Fort Financial Planning
As the festive season approaches, the twinkling lights and cheerful carols remind us that Christmas is just around the corner. While it’s a time for joy, family and celebration, it can also be a period of financial stress if not managed properly. With a little foresight and careful planning, you can ensure your holiday season is both merry and financially sound.
Set a Budget
One of the most critical steps in financial planning for Christmas is setting a budget. Determine how much you can realistically afford to spend without compromising your financial stability. This budget should cover all aspects of the festive season, including gifts, decorations, travel and food. Make a list of all potential expenses and allocate funds accordingly. Sticking to your budget is key to avoiding post-holiday financial strain.
Smart Shopping
Start your Christmas shopping early to take advantage of sales and discounts. Black Friday and Cyber Monday offer significant saving opportunities. Consider shopping online, where you can easily compare prices and find the best deals. Avoid last-minute shopping, as it often leads to impulsivity and overspending.
Homemade and Thoughtful Gifts
Gifts don’t have to be expensive to be meaningful. Consider creating homemade gifts or giving thoughtful, personalised presents that show you care without breaking the bank. Baking cookies, crafting ornaments or putting together a photo album are great ways to share the holiday spirit while staying within your budget.
Plan for Travel Costs
If you’re travelling to visit family or friends, factor these costs into your budget. Book your travel arrangements early to secure the best rates. Look for discounts on flights and accommodation, and consider alternatives like using public transport to save on costs.
Saving and Spreading Costs
Open a separate savings account specifically for Christmas expenses and contribute to it throughout the year. This way, the financial burden is spread out, making it easier to manage. Set up automatic transfers to ensure you stay on track with your savings goals.
Post-Holiday Financial Health
After the holiday season, review your finances to assess your spending and make any necessary adjustments. Start planning for next year’s Christmas early to give yourself ample time to save and budget. Reflect on what worked well and what could be improved in your financial planning process.
Christmas is a time for joy and celebration and it doesn’t have to come with financial stress. By setting a budget, shopping smart, considering thoughtful gifts, planning for travel costs and spreading out expenses, you can enjoy a festive and financially responsible holiday season. Remember, the best gift you can give yourself and your loved ones is a stress-free and joyful Christmas.
Happy holidays from all of us at Fort Financial Planning and may your financial planning bring you peace and prosperity in the coming year!
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EMBRACING CARBON OFFSETTING A COMMITMENT TO
SUSTAINABILITY
Harry Durston, Trainee Solicitor & Head of ESG Team, Mogers Drewett Solicitors
As leader of the Environmental, Social and Governance Team (ESG) at Mogers Drewett, I have observed a significant shift in the mindset of many businesses, including our own, toward integrating sustainability and carbon neutrality into their core strategies.
I am proud to announce that for the second consecutive year, we have successfully calculated our carbon emissions and implemented measures to offset these emissions, achieving 100% carbon neutrality. This commitment has not gone unnoticed; we recently received The Business Exchange Eco Champion Award, recognising the dedicated efforts of our firm and the ESG Team in reducing carbon emissions
For any business considering carbon offsetting, it is essential to grasp its fundamental concept. Carbon offsetting enables organisations to compensate for their carbon emissions by investing in projects that either reduce or capture carbon emissions elsewhere. These projects can range from reforestation initiatives to renewable energy developments, each contributing to the global effort to combat climate change.
The first step toward effective carbon offsetting is accurately calculating carbon emissions. We chose to collaborate with a local carbon consultant, Seedling, based in Bath. They analyse and calculate our full-scope carbon outputs, which encompass emissions from our offices, employee commuting and our supply chain, including everything from office supplies to technology. This comprehensive assessment provides a clear picture of our carbon footprint and informs our offsetting strategy.
I then work closely with Seedling when choosing
our carbon offsetting options, ensuring that all of the programmes that we invest in are gold standard schemes accredited by the United Nations which have undergone rigorous analysis by independent auditors.
As any business begins to calculate its carbon footprint, it is vital to remain vigilant against challenges such as greenwashing and the evolving regulatory landscape. Carbon offsetting should not be treated as a mere box-ticking exercise; rather, it must reflect a comprehensive approach to sustainability. Engaging in open conversations about our environmental impact and our responsibilities to the wider community is essential for fostering genuine change.
Ultimately, our journey in carbon offsetting is part of a broader commitment to sustainability. While offsets are a valuable tool for addressing our immediate carbon footprint, they cannot serve as the sole solution. We must remain focused on reducing emissions at their source, investing in cleaner technologies and promoting sustainable practices throughout our operations and supply chain.
In conclusion, carbon offsetting presents a meaningful opportunity for businesses ready to engage in the fight against climate change. By understanding our carbon footprint, selecting reputable projects, integrating sustainability into our core values and communicating transparently, we can make a significant impact. As we move forward, I am reminded that every action counts. By taking responsibility today, we can help pave the way for a more sustainable future.
mogersdrewett.com
AMD PROCESSORS
James Flynn, Milborne Port Computers
Back in October, we covered the Intel range of processors and now, as Black Friday has passed, we move on to AMD processors or Advanced Micro Devices. AMD has made a name for itself by providing high-performance processors at competitive prices. For the average home user, AMD processors can offer excellent performance for tasks like web browsing, streaming, gaming and light productivity work.
AMD’s Ryzen lineup is broken down into four main categories: Ryzen 3, Ryzen 5, Ryzen 7 and Ryzen 9. Can you see the similarity with the Intel processors? Each series is built for a different type of user and as the number goes up, so does the performance and price.
The Ryzen 3 series is AMD’s entry-level range and good for basic computing. It’s affordable and wellsuited for everyday tasks like web browsing, office applications, and video streaming. Ryzen 3 processors typically have four cores and four to eight threads, making them a good choice for those who need basic computing power without too much multitasking.
Most Ryzen 3 models come with integrated Radeon Vega graphics, meaning you don’t need a separate graphics card for general use or light gaming. It’s perfect for users on a budget who want decent performance for everyday tasks.
The Ryzen 5 series offers a good balance between cost and performance, making it ideal for users who need to multitask or do some light gaming and media editing. Ryzen 5 processors usually come with six cores and twelve threads, providing more power for demanding
tasks than the Ryzen 3. It’s a versatile processor with integrated graphics so you can enjoy better graphics performance without needing a dedicated GPU. This makes it ideal for households where users might want to game or edit photos occasionally.
The Ryzen 7 series is for users who need high performance like creators and gamers. These processors usually have eight cores and sixteen threads, which makes them great for tasks like video editing, 3D rendering and serious gaming. With a Ryzen 7, users can expect faster processing, smoother multitasking and better performance for creative work.
At the high end of the Ryzen lineup, the Ryzen 9 series is built for enthusiasts and professionals who need maximum performance. These processors come with twelve or even sixteen cores and can handle heavy workloads like video production, 3D modelling and advanced gaming.
For most users, Ryzen 5 provides an excellent balance of power and affordability, making it suitable for general computing, light gaming and media editing. If you need more power for creative work or gaming, Ryzen 7 might be a better choice. For basic tasks, Ryzen 3 is a solid, budget-friendly option and Ryzen 9 is best for those who need professional-grade performance.
Each Ryzen model has something to offer so whether you’re a casual user or a power user, AMD’s lineup has a processor that will fit your needs and budget.
computing-mp.co.uk
CHRISTMAS IN A BOX
Jan Garner, Sherborne Scribblers
By one o’clock on Christmas Day, the family had all arrived and were in the lounge where Jackie’s elderly father was holding court. ‘Oh Dad, isn’t this lovely?’ his youngest daughter Brenda exclaimed as she admired the artificial tree that filled the bay window.
‘Huh,’ he snorted. ‘It came in a box from Amazon. The lights and decorations were already attached to it.’
‘Well, that’s good – it saves our Jackie a lot of time. Don’t forget Dad, she’s a very busy woman – talking of which, I’d best go and give her a hand in the kitchen.’
It wasn’t long before she reappeared. ‘Dinner’s ready folks. Put your phones away now, children, and go and sit at the table.’
‘It smells good,’ someone said as the sisters ferried a complete banquet into the dining room.
‘Now, what wine would you all like?’ Jackie’s husband Brian asked. ‘I had a couple of boxes of red and white delivered.’
‘Wine in boxes, whatever next!’ his father-in-law shook his head. ‘Not for me, thanks. I’ll stick to a Guinness.’
‘Tuck in before it gets cold,’ a harassed-looking Jackie said as her husband filled everyone’s glass. There was a clatter of spoons as they all helped themselves to the food in the colourful tureens. ‘How’s the turkey?’ asked the cook.
‘Delicious,’ came the unanimous reply.
‘It came in a box from the supermarket,’ the old man said. ‘So did the pudding and the cake.’ Jackie’s face darkened.
‘And what,’ she said as she speared a roast potato, ‘is wrong with that?’
‘Nothing, it’s just not how your mother did it – that’s all I’m saying.’
‘Well, Dad,’ Brenda came to her sister’s defence. ‘Mum didn’t have a full-time job, did she? And anyway, no one in their right mind goes to the bother of plucking a turkey these days. Everyone orders an ovenready one and our Jackie didn’t want any catastrophes
– especially not today, of all days.’
Her father adopted his ‘I’ve been told off’ face and winked at the children, making them laugh. Suitably chastised he said, ‘No, of course she didn’t love and she’s done a grand job; everything’s tickety boo. Talking of catastrophes,’ he grinned, ‘your mum and I had a few of those over the years.’
‘What’s a cat oss roffosee? Is it something to do with a cat?’ his youngest grandson asked.
‘No lad,’ the old man chuckled at the boy’s stab at the pronunciation. ‘It means a disaster. We nearly had one of those when our cat Fluff got drunk.’
‘A cat can’t get drunk, Grandad.’
‘Well, she did. It happened at one of our Christmas parties. We were having so much fun that no one noticed her drinking from the slop tray under the barrel of beer that my pal Billy had given us. Poor Fluff, she was under the weather for days.’
Everyone laughed and the little boy begged his grandfather for some more stories about the olden days. ‘Well now,’ he put down his knife and fork, ‘after the war.’
‘After the war,’ the adults groaned good humouredly.
‘Take no notice of them,’ the old man said to his young audience, ‘they’re just being silly. The world was a different place back then, lad. We didn’t have mobiles or electronic games or even a television and nothing came in a box from Amazon. But we made the best of things. At Christmas, we always had a big party and I don’t know how she did it, what with the rationing and everything, but Nan somehow produced a cake and even a pudding.’
Jackie interrupted him. ‘I remember Brenda and me stirring a silver sixpence into the pudding mixture every year. Mum said whoever found it would have good luck.’
‘Can you imagine doing that nowadays?’ Brian scoffed. ‘The Health and Safety brigade would have hysterics.’
‘You’re right, they would,’ said his father-in-law.
‘Given half a chance they’d probably like to stop us kissing under the mistletoe or pulling a cracker or even
having a real tree in the house. But it’s important to keep up the old traditions.’
‘I agree with you Dad – they’re all part of Christmas and we don’t want to lose them. Some of them originated way back in Pagan times,’ Jackie said. ‘Mind you, the tree was a nightmare – it dropped its needles everywhere. Poor mum spent all winter picking them out of the living room rug. Give me an artificial one any day.’
‘Your mother didn’t mind, she loved the festive season,’ his eyes misted. ‘She spent hours making fairies out of old net curtains and pompoms from the wool she’d unpicked from our old jumpers. The only thing she ever bought was tinsel from Woolworth’s. She loved a bit of glitz on the tree. Apart from that, everything, even the paper chains were homemade. Nothing came in a box in those days. But 1946 was our most unforgettable Christmas. That day could so easily have been catastrophic.’
‘Why Grandad, what happened?’
‘Poor Mr Gladwin, our next-door neighbour, was digging up some parsnips from his vegetable patch when he found an unexploded bomb. The whole street had to be evacuated. It was hours before the disposal boys made it safe. Christmas dinner was very late that year.’
‘Oh Dad,’ Brenda sighed, ‘I remember how hard you and Mum worked to make Christmas special for us. Every year Mum put a glass of beer and the carrot next to the chimney for Father Christmas and his reindeer and in the morning, when we saw the empty glass and half-eaten carrot, we knew that he was real. Oh, and the excitement of opening those little stockings hanging by the fireplace.’ She brushed away a tear that had dropped onto her cheek. ‘I wish Mum was with us.’
‘So do I love but we have lots of wonderful memories and I still have all the things she made.’
‘Have you Dad? Where are they?’
‘In the loft. In a very special box.’
The whole family began to laugh. ‘What?’ he said. ‘What’s so funny about that?’
LITERARY SOCIETY PREVIEW
Bob Bowmer, Sherborne Literary Society
THE SCAPEGOAT: THE BRILLIANT BRIEF LIFE OF THE DUKE OF BUCKINGHAM LUCY
HUGHES-HALLET
As Hughes-Hallett states at the outset: ‘This book is about big things – peace and war, Parliament and despotism. It is also about small things – babies, jewels, anemones…aiming to make a collage that conjures up a life in all its complexity.’
The main supporters and promoters of Villiers remain James VI and I. The tortured family background of James VI of Scotland is well known: father murdered, Mary Queen of Scots, his mother, imprisoned and
ultimately beheaded under Elizabeth I. He acceded to the Scottish throne as James VI as a one-year-old in 1567. He gained control of the Scottish government in 1583 and acceded to the monarchy of England and Ireland in 1603 as James I.
A man constantly seeking out friendship and counsel to approve his actions? Or did he just seek love and stability? Enter George Villiers, a younger son of a Leicestershire yeoman, certainly not of noble birth
but endowed with ‘looks’, an ability to dance alongside good manners and the good sense to hold his own counsel, at least in his early years. A supernova at a royal court – Villiers rose up from the king’s favourite and purported bedfellow. James I had previous assignations but these were forgotten as Villiers outshone all with the love-struck king.
Sustained royal patronage landed Villiers with roles as Master of the Horse and Lord High Admiral. He rose and rose through the peerage to become Duke of Buckingham, England’s only duke and ultimately the most powerful non-royal in the kingdom. He was now effectively the head of the combined armed forces and the foreign secretary, with a patron condoning his actions, much to the open disapproval of a sickly parliament.
Over-endowed with titles and favour from the king, Villiers accompanied Charles Prince of Wales to Spain to negotiate the hand of the Infanta; the mission failed spectacularly due to his crass and obtuse behaviour. This is a man (over-) confident in his ability and underendowed with intelligence. He had a free hand from the king to pursue a foreign policy, which resulted in loss of life and humiliation, all with the ear of a dying king and then his unseasoned successor, Charles I.
The failed discussions to help win a bride for Prince Charles were further compounded by an allegation of attempted rape on Anne of Austria, Queen of France, which soured any hope of an alliance between England and France. On he marched through life, losing La Rochelle in 1625 but he remained the only man from the court of James to maintain his position under Charles I. Their embassy to the Spanish Court had evidently made Buckingham a favourite of Charles: the boy had charisma, it must be granted.
An attempt to seize Cadiz in 1625 proved a disaster with English troops finding a warehouse full of wine, falling drunk and the attack was called off out of necessity.
Undeterred by a now well-deserved reputation for incompetence, Buckingham attempted a military campaign to seize Ile de Re in 1627 which was diplomatically reckless and strategically incompetent. Hughes-Hallett cites a litany of strategic and logistical errors with mass fatalities throughout his career and ‘naval-military operations undertaken with no clear idea of what advantage they might serve or how they were to be financed’.
Hughes-Hallett confronts the substance of the relationship between James, his previous paramours and indeed Buckingham: this is not new as much
speculation has existed even during the early seventeenth century. At the same time and as expected at the time, James remained married to Queen Anne, formerly a princess of the Danish royal family: there were ten children, three of whom survived childhood.
The 600+ pages of The Scapegoat delve back into a time not widely known to us today so there is a requirement for a good infill on background to the early 17th century and deft presentation of the many themes within the book. Contemporary arts, parliamentary procedures, customs, the Gunpowder Plot and courtly processes are all there. Religion remained as contentious as in former Tudor times – the King James Version of the Bible was commissioned in 1604 and published in 1611 – one venture in which Buckingham was absent!
Buckingham’s career was to extend into the reign of Charles I and The Scapegoat provides a colourful, pacey and highly readable resume of this ultimately inept if charming character who was loved and hated in equal measure by his contemporaries. Certainly an enemy of the people and arrogant alongside gracious, affectionate and modest – there is much to explore in the 600+ pages of this entertaining read.
As with the supernova, three final years of decidedly miscalculated war-mongering buoyed by over-confidence helped extinguish both a reputation, which could have been greater, and ultimately his life – Buckingham stabbed to death in Portsmouth by an army officer who felt passed over for promotion.
The book is presented in over 100 chapters in a wellpaced and informative style. It will enlighten most readers and inform on a ‘one-off’ in a period of our history often overlooked between Gloriana and The Civil War.
sherborneliterarysociety.com
Tuesday 3rd December 11.30am
Lucy Hallett-Hughes - The Scapegoat: The Brilliant Brief Life of the Duke of Buckingham
The Eastbury Hotel, Long St, Sherborne DT9 3BY
Talk and book signing with cultural historian, biographer and novelist Lucy Hallett-Hughes. Tickets £10 (members), £12 (non-members) available from Winstone’s Bookshop and online via sherborneliterarysociety.com
Suppliers of both new and pre-loved vinyl, official t-shirts, merchandise and memorabilia. Come visit and “Try before you buy”.
The Beat & Track, The Old Shambles, South Street, Sherborne, DT9 3LN
16. Starlike object that often emits radio waves (6)
18. High up (5)
NOVEMBER SOLUTIONS
LITERARY REVIEW
John Gaye, Sherborne Literary Society
The Place of Tides By James Rebanks (Allen Lane, Oct 2024, £22 hardcover)
Sherborne Times reader offer price of £20 from Winstone’s Books
For those unfamiliar with the author, James Rebanks, he is a 50-year-old sheep farmer from Cumbria who also happens to have achieved 2 GCSEs at school and a double first in history at Oxford University. He is also a most eloquent writer about his love of the natural world. His previous two books, The Shepherd’s Life and English Pastoral, described the ups and downs of his life farming on the Fells.
This book, The Place of Tides, takes us on a journey to an even more remote and harsher environment, to a very small island off the coast of Norway where for many centuries the locals have maintained a traditional farming practice and way of life gathering the feathers from eider ducks, aka eiderdown.
Some 10 years ago, while working in an environmental consultancy, James was despatched to study how the Norwegians practised conservation and tourism. During that brief visit, he was taken by boat to visit the outlying small islands and here it was he first met Anna, the ‘Duck Woman’. The impression Anna left on his memory led to him some years later inviting himself to join her and her neighbour Ingrid for the 10 weeks spent carrying out this solitary work. James had found himself with something of a midlife crisis and he felt he needed to escape for a while from the pressures of farming and family life in the Fells of Cumbria.
This is a story of reverting to a simple life, preparing loads of nesting sites around the island to encourage the eider ducks to come ashore to nest and start their families in comparative safety. The three ‘duck farmers’
Celebrating 10 Years as Sherborne’s Independent Bookseller 2012-2022
have a small very basic cottage in which to live and they have to adapt to moving quietly and gently around the island to give the eider confidence in the security they provide.
Gradually the ducks begin to trust their human guardians and eventually, they start to come onto the island and to their newly constructed temporary homes in which to start their new families.
The ‘rent’ they pay for this accommodation is the down feather they leave behind as they eventually disperse to the oceans. The duck farmers go round gathering all the down from the nests and once they have returned to the comparative comfort of their own homes they will spend the winter months cleaning their precious product to make the most luxurious stuffing for duvets.
James also records witnessing the degradation of the natural world even in such a wild and remote location. The abundant fish stocks which have sustained Norwegians and the wildlife forever, are thinning out, consequently, the eider are hugely depleted in their numbers as are many of the other seabirds that used to call these barren islands their home. In addition, the islanders spend much of their precious time littercollecting and James makes the point that so much of the plastic detritus he came across had originated from the shores of his own country.
I was surprised how much I enjoyed this remarkable book but then James Rebanks is a remarkable author.
sherborneliterarysociety.com
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PAUSE FOR THOUGHT
Jonathan Salisbury, Sacred Heart & St Aldhelm Church
Whenever we travel, we always visit churches. There is nothing particularly surprising in that, of course, because it is something that many of us will do too, whether you have faith or no faith at all.
Some churches are bereft of any decoration and purely functional – perhaps their only merit is that they provide protection from the elements for the congregation. From an aesthetic point of view, there is very little reason to visit; without a particularly strong historical background story or it having been designed by a famous architect, you’d probably not knowingly go out of your way for one of these. Others, such as the Sagrada Família in Barcelona or St Marks in Venice, are the complete opposite and very much worth a detour. It is quite easy to spend many hours, inside and out, and still find something new to look at. What do you prefer? Gaudí’s Modernisme or medieval Gothic? Baroque Rococo or 1950s brutalism? As far as taste goes, there’s something for everyone.
The first churches were decorated at a time when most of the congregation would have been unable to read and the tradition continues; large paintings depicting important events and stained glass windows telling stories without words are the things that tourists now flock to look at. They may speed through, snapping photo after photo on their phones but not really experiencing or even understanding what they see. On the other hand, they might have researched the history and design theory behind these buildings so that they can appreciate them fully.
Some people say that as a place of worship, a place to pray, churches ought not to be a shelter from the summer heat (or the winter rain), treated as an interesting pastime or be something to tick off the ‘done that’ holiday list. Then again, how does anyone know exactly what those in church are seeking without asking them? It may seem obvious – but it is easy to leap to conclusions.
Some attend every Sunday or even every day of the week; for others, Christmas will be the only time they go to church. Some go to pray. Others just sit because they need a quiet place to stop and think for a while; for some, the church they happened to be passing drew their attention; others are there to enjoy the building and its contents. Some do shelter from the elements and then go on to find something much more while they are there. But does it matter if you are a visitor or a worshiper, a tourist or a pilgrim? Without people to witness it, what purpose is served by the most elaborately decorated basilica?
If you do visit a church this Christmas, alone or with family or friends, whatever you are looking for, I hope that you find it.
Find out more at our Open Morning on Wednesday 12 February
