PROUD
From avocado baths to the Michelin Guide: Plumber Manor at 50, understanding its enduring appeal Page 18
Farmers can be prosecuted for damaging short stretches of river, but when will water companies be held accountable for their actions?
Page 4
You just can’t get the staff ... The UK’s first post-Brexit trade deals begin amid agricultural industry concerns and severe labour shortages.
Page 10
Glorious floppy dock: the spires of purple foxglove shout ‘June is here!’, says wildlife writer Jane Adams Page 52
Where can you go on a £2 bus fare? What does the bus price cap mean for people in Dorset – and just how far can you actually go? Page 12
Heather’s amazingly soft yet crunchy blueberry and lemon crumble loaf recipe
Page 94
We know, it’s a HUGE magazine. So we make it easy for you - just like grabbing the sections you like best from the Sunday papers, you can click the number to jump straight to the section you want. Or, y’know, just make yourself a coffee and start from the beginning...
As most people know, we headed to Mayfair this month for the swish awards do. As a tiny team, just to be shortlisted for Regional Publication Of The Year – to be considered among the top three regional titles in the country – was an honour. On the night we didn’t win, but did receive a Highly Commended accolade, one of only four on the night. This was beyond anything we expected – we were thrilled just to be in the room (and suspect we were the only ones there who had actually paid for their own seat…).
In other news this month:
After a seemingly unending spring of chilly greyness, summer seemed to rush at us in May. The blackthorn was lush, but the hawthorn has been positively frothing, hasn’t it? I have never seen the hedgerows so thick with white, it’s been utterly glorious. The buttercups and cow parsley too. Dorset has been flashing its prettiest ankle at us, and I’m happily woo-ed (though some are less happy about a council mow of said cow parsley – there are some disgruntled readers on the letters page this month).
If you’ve been watching Springwatch (those poor little wren chicks! I was stricken!), then you might be feeling inspired to go and explore the AONB near Swanage. In a weird twist, our own best walk this month was from Studland. There are few public footpaths across the RSPB Arne reserve itself, for obvious reason, but the wider area’s stunning heathland is criss-crossed by them. If you’ve never explored it then now is the perfect time. We did a long walk (13 miles), but it’s very adaptable (it’s easy to cut the route to your own length - the map’s on p50) – and also very flat! We thoroughly recommend going, it’s simply beautiful, and we’d go now, before the summer hoardes arrive.
Lastly, in a quick double answer to current FAQs in my inbox: Mochi, our son’s fifth-floor-window-diving cat, is doing amazingly. Her cast is finally off, she’s still limping but getting around beautifully. And no, I have not yet gone mug shopping. But I am thrilled by the number of people who got in touch to share that they also have a specific mug for every time of day/type of drink/mood. It’s the only way.
Finally, I have a kickboxing grading tomorrow. I am feeling The Fear... but I love the sport, and work hard at progresing (if I pass tomorrow I’ll be just two away from a black belt). I only started it to spite my teenagers (no, really), and though I guarantee my body is the exact opposite of what you picture when you think ‘kickboxer’ it always brings me joy. Even if my creaking bones and weeping joints keep pretending I’m far too old for this nonsense.
PS - the photography submissions were SO strong this month, we’ve even changed the design of the back page to squeeze in just-one-more. Don’t miss it!
Before and after images of the destruction of the River Lug by farmer John Price. Images: Environment Agency / Natural England
Farmers can be prosecuted for damaging short stretches of river, but when will water companies be held accountable for their actions, asks Andrew Livingston
From childhood we learn that living organisms need water to grow. Obviously, then, water is quite a big deal in agriculture. Farmers need clean, good quality water to help grow their crops and hydrate their animals. Recently, news broke of a Herefordshire farmer, John Price, sentenced to 12 months imprisonment for irreparably damaging the River Lug, which passes through his land. The images are horrific. The beautiful stretch of river now looks like a canal after he ripped out and felled 95 bankside trees before dredging the river and creating a hard-standing area along the banks.
Once again, farmers are negatively portrayed in the news. Mr Price’s previous record, detailed to the court, dates back 35 years, and shows his attitude to environmental legislation as it affects farmers.
His latest actions were partly in breach of the 2018 Farming Rules For Water, which were introduced to reduce and prevent diffuse water pollution from agricultural sources. His is the first prosecution under those rules. I hope the farming community takes note – although only a minority would have acted as Mr Price did.
Hampshire). Every single one of England’s rivers fails to meet chemical standards.
Wessex Water’s boss received a £61K bonus for meeting environmental targets – as the company’s rating dropped from four stars to two
The Rivers Trust states that only 14 per cent of England’s rivers are in good ecological health –and this includes 85 per cent of the entire world’s precious chalk streams (more than 40 chalk streams are found in Dorset and
Rivers are being damaged and compromised not with diggers and chainsaws, but with raw sewage. Nationally, water companies are not doing enough to protect rivers from the sewage leaking into the fragile ecosystems – and nobody is holding them accountable. Last year, four Wessex Water bosses received eye-watering bonuses for hitting targets relating to the protection of the environment – in spite of many reports of sewage in the Wessex Water region’s rivers. The company’s chief executive, Colin Skellett, received
£61,548 from a total bonus of £189,500 last year ‘for meeting environmental targets’, despite Wessex Water’s environmental rating in fact dropping from four stars to two.
The Parrett and Yeo Phosphate Pollution Study, which tests water quality in the River Parrett – flowing from Cheddington in West Dorset to Bridgwater Bay in Somerset – has consistently found harmful levels of phosphates. Wessex Water has blamed farmers but the study found that phosphate levels in the river never dropped, even when the streams entirely dried up during the summer months.
The report suggests instead that the main sources of phosphate in the Parrett are the 11 sewage treatment plants whose outflows enter the river. None has a phosphate removal stage, and the report suggests that they account for more than 90 per cent of the phosphates entering the river.
The study also shows that where farmers follow DEFRA guidelines for farming near water, phosphate run-off into local watercourses is in fact almost undetectable.
If farmers are being charged with breaches of the new Rules and other environmental legislation, is it not time for water companies to be held equally accountable
for the quality of the water in the rivers for which they are responsible?
The Rivers Trust has produced an interactive map here, showing where the sewerage network discharges both treated sewage and overflows of untreated sewage and storm water into rivers in England and Wales in 2022.
It’s all too easy to blame little farmers rather than to take on the big companies. It has recently been announced that the government can fine water companies an unlimited amount for polluting rivers, with the money being used for the restoration of the waterways. It’s a start.
Since 2019, Jane Somper has been the councillor for Beacon ward, one of the most rural in Dorset. As such, she is responsible for the numerous Blackmore Vale villages from the edge of Shaftesbury out to East Stour, across to Manston and Shroton and back to the giddy heights of Ashmore and Charlton Down.
For a seemingly sleepy, sparselypopulated ward, Jane is kept busier than you might expect for a local councillor … not to mention regularly being found on Twitter sharing the stunning views from Fontmell and Compton Downs as she sneaks a break to walk her dog.
For the last 18 months Jane has been a lead member in Dorset Council’s Adult Social Care and Health team.
In May, council leader Spencer Flower asked her to take on the cabinet role with additional responsibility for housing. Jane says: ’That’s an area I hadn’t dealt with before, so a big learning curve for me.
‘But of course I now have my own lead members; Graham Carr-Jones has worked on housing for maybe 18 years. He’s incredibly passionate about it – totally understands it – and I’m relying on him as I learn.’
‘Dorset Council doesn’t have its own properties. So my job is around how we fill the gaps that we clearly have. We need to be able to facilitate much more social housing. As a council, we do that by working with
certain providers. We simply don’t provide ‘council houses’ ourselves, though I know many people still believe that we do. ‘But it’s such a huge undertaking, and so difficult –tussling with both local issues and those on a national scale around housing supply, land banking, certain unscrupulous developers … I’ve been doing this for less than a month, and already I’m seeing the possibilities of what Dorset Council can achieve in working
with housing associations, because, contrary to popular belief, there are a lot of very good ones.
‘And of course they get labelled, because they’re a “developer”, when they’re actually doing really good work. We have to help them, in order to facilitate the right kind of houses we so desperately need.
Jane now has a massive remit – she has ultimate control and
Tackling many of Dorset’s challenges, most people are unaware of the importance, scope and complexity of Jane’s multi-faceted roleCllr Jane Somper, Beacon Ward councillor and new cabinet member for Adult Social Care, Health and Housing.
MONSTER TRUCKS AXEMEN CRAFTER’S AVENUE FOOD & DRINK AREA HEAVY HORSE LOGGING SHETLAND PONY RACING WOOD CARVER NEW & SO MUCH MORE...
CATTLE SHOWJUMPING HORTICULTURE PIGS GOATS BEES & HONEY RABBITS SHEEP HORSES SHOPPING STEAM ENGINES HOMECRAFT FORGE FALCONRY SHOW GARDENS FARM MACHINERY
ADULT TICKETS:
CHILDREN GO FREE!
responsibility for around 45 per cent of the entire council budget. So what rests on Jane’s shoulders particularly heavily?
‘It’s alarming when you put it like that. What am I responsible for? What does fall on my shoulders? That makes you stop and think.
‘It’s clear when I talk to people that they often don’t really understand what Adult Social Care is. It’s a whole raft of things – yes, it’s care homes, but it’s also who comes to help you a bit when you’ve come out of hospital. Or who sorts it if you need a little care with your daily living … it comes into so many areas, and yet very few people really know who’s providing which service.
‘Dorset Council has the highest age demographic in the entire country. That’s something that really focuses my mind – what the future requirements of those people are going to be.
There’s a very negative narrative around “the elderly” in Dorset, but you know, the retired have such broad life experience. And they’re contributing huge amounts to their communities; the voluntary and community sector really can’t survive without them. I think we all know they are a huge asset.
‘I’ve got a lot of parish councils in my ward, and these are the exact people who sit on those councils. They’re the people who have experience in business, and law and accountancy, in medicine ... they know their stuff, and they make things happen. They want to help and they have the time. And they’re really good at organising things!
A stitch in time
‘So in that sense, I think we’re actually really lucky in Dorset to have that wealth of knowledge to tap into. Of course, as people get older, things start to happen,
and then they’re going to need a bit of care and support in return. That’s where adult services steps in.
‘A piece of work that’s being carried out at the moment is the re-ablement service, which is basically short-term rehabilitation. When people no longer need hospital care, but are not quite ready to go home, we need to get them out of the hospital environment to a place where they are able to get up every day, to get dressed, to start to re-engage with cooking and organising their own medication ... building them up to a point where they can go home. This should prevent that yo-yo of going home, and then bouncing back into hospital again. That’s obviously an investment, but it pays strong dividends.
‘If people are living their strongest, best life, the most fulfilled way that they can, that’s better for everyone.
And of course, along the line somewhere – either for Adult Social Care or for Health – there are savings when you act preemptively, and fewer people are coming into crisis.
‘A couple living in my ward came to see me recently. They are both in their 80s, and the gentleman is in the early stages of dementia. The wife is probably not in the best of health herself, but she’s keeping it together. However, she’s been getting stressed about dealing with it all – there’s lots
Dorset Council has the highest age demographic in the entire country
Jane Somper has ultimate control and responsibility for around 45 per cent of the entire Dorset Council budget
of paperwork, lots of things she’s trying to understand and she’s been getting really anxious, which is impacting her own health. So we are able to step in and offer a little support, guidance on how to get appropriate financial and medical assistance, or tech – we have a lot of fantastic tech! This gentleman still likes to go for a walk, and of course she worries about him. But now she can track him with the tech, so she doesn’t worry nearly so much. There’s lots of other options for lowlevel monitoring, and any issues can be picked up quickly, and then acted on, perhaps by a social worker. Just being able to offer
that tiny bit of support has helped her enormously. She’s feeling far less anxious and more confident.
A real culture-shift
‘The key is that early intervention, preventing the escalation. My overall aim is just better outcomes – looking at where we can intervene, providing that early help so things don’t get to crisis point. ‘Because everything – everything – we do has to be personcentred. That’s another area we’re working to change, ensuring that all the decisions made around someone’s care are what that person wants. That’s really important. Take a domestic
abuse issue, for example. It’s never straightforward, and it’s about understanding what is the outcome that person wants –and not what we think it should be. The view of the care worker or social worker should be removed from the situation. ‘There’s a real culture shift to understanding and properly listening to the person. Because if you’re providing what people want, rather than what you think they need, the whole process is much more positive. You’re working together, rather than dragging someone with you. You know, I’m not an expert. My team are the experts – and they’re so good at what they do. But when you simplify my job, it is helping people to live their best lives in the way that they want to.
We’re just there to provide help and support when they want it.
There’s a very negative narrative around “the elderly” in Dorset ... they are a huge asset.
The seventh anniversary of the British people’s vote to break away from the European Union is on 23rd June. This year, however, it was 1st June that marked a watershed moment for the UK, as the first post-Brexit trade deals with Australia and New Zealand began. For some, these two Oceanic trade deals will bring exciting opportunities to grow their businesses, selling more easily into the two countries. For UK agriculture, however, there begins an anxious wait. Farmers are concerned that their high-welfare (and therefore costly-to-produce) food is going to be undercut by Australian and New Zealand-produced meat.
Unfortunately, this isn’t actually the biggest issue for UK farming in the post-Brexit era – that issue is still labour. Tighter restrictions
on immigration have left the UK’s agriculture sector short of its necessary and willing foreign workers, as the British workforce is still unwilling to fill the gap. Richard and Dee Foot, who farm in Bishops Caundle near Sherborne, have experienced this first-hand in the last few years. Dee told the BV how they have now had to stop milking cows as they couldn’t find a herdsman.
She said: ‘We put several advertisements out and the people who applied weren’t particularly suitable. Richard did offer the job to someone, a local man – he shook Richard’s hand and then never turned up!
‘We had people not bothering
to turn up for the interview, too. The British view is if they can get more money, they’ll go for it. It’s not all, obviously, but there’s an awful lot of British people who think the world owes them a favour. If they can get a better deal, there’s no commitment.’
Previously, foreign workers could have filled the position, but Richard and Dee have now sold their dairy herd and are instead rearing dairy heifers to be sold.
The vast majority of British people don’t fancy the hard work that comes with working in agriculture – and Dee says that the workers of tomorrow aren’t going to be any different.
‘I mean, we took on a load of young lads, and I’m afraid they
... they were an absolute waste of space. Richard found them asleep in the tractor!
were an absolute waste of space. Richard found them asleep in the tractor! Youngsters today just don’t have the commitment.
‘I’ve worked since I could work, basically. Even when I was at college I used to work weekends and school holidays. We had a young lad here last July, and even though he’s on half term this week he hasn’t come to us to ask us for any extra hours at all.’
There is no bucolic idyll
Over in Blandford, Jim Farquharson, Managing Director of B & W Feeds says this has been their worst year so far looking for labour.
‘What we seem to have done is cut ourselves off from a supply of seasonal labour from countries that have more of a rural-based economy; therefore they have a working population that is more used to working in agriculturerelated sectors. We don’t have that here in the UK anymore. Our workforce has become very divorced from that – despite what the government tells us about a “willing UK labour force that is ready to come back into the field”. They are not!
‘There is this bucolic idea in Westminster of these happy Eastenders coming out of London to go and pick hops in Kent. And it’s just not reality.’
As a sideline, Jim also has a silo
pressure-washing business which he is now struggling to staff.
‘I think that they have this view [on] immigration, that I agree with – you know, no one wants to see people illegally trying to get into this country ... But we are then losing sight of the need for legal immigration and necessary seasonal workforces.’
Jim didn’t vote for Brexit and is, like many farmers, concerned about the upcoming trade deals that will replace the European Single Market.
‘On the back of trade deals I think agriculture is probably being regarded as, excuse the pun, the
sacrificial lamb. They’re going out to seek trade deals because they’ve lost the European market. But a lot of deals are being done with countries using agriculture as leverage.
‘Farming in the UK has a double pressure – everybody wants cheap food, which is fine, except we’re also being asked to farm to the very highest welfare and environmental standards. Those come with a cost.
‘The worry is that we will export our moral conscience too, by saying, “Okay, well, that’s fine, we’ll just bring in cheap food from abroad”.’
When 18 people recently got on the bus in Okeford Fitzpaine, the driver realised something was up. Usually, the X4 bus runs half empty, but on a cold spring day it was remarkably full of chatter. It was clear that the driver had never actually experienced a full bus with standing room only! Green transport stalwart and local resident Dilys Gartside had organised a trip to see The Mousetrap when it came to Yeovil on its recent national tour. Not only had she acquired the group’s theatre tickets and found
somewhere good for lunch – just as importantly she had alerted those of us too young to have a bus pass that the fare cap meant the journey currently costs just £2 each way.
Instead of concentrating on the road and grumbling about the price of fuel and stress of parking, I could chat to my village neighbours and watch the world go by.
The £2 bus cap was introduced by the Department of Transport
on 1st January 2023 and was initially planned to run for eight weeks. Participating bus companies offer a single fare, capped at £2. The scheme’s success has just seen it extended a second time, and it is now running until 31st October –perfect for a summer of day trips. The Department of Transport review in May found that urban residents used the scheme more than those in rural areas. Of course, this could well be due to the much-reduced service in the countryside, particularly at weekends. It also found journeys made by bus increased as a result of the cap, which helps keep the struggling bus services operational.
With the bus cap in place, a journey on public transport can work out significantly cheaper than driving a car, and for those of us watching every penny, this can really make a difference. However, there’s a significant benefit to the
environment as well. Research by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) shows that buses are one of the least polluting forms of transport, providing they have passengers. A single-person car journey emits four times more carbon dioxide than a bus taking the same journey. And of course, per capita carbon emissions decrease the more passengers there are travelling on the bus. BEIS also shows that in 201920 – the latest available data – carbon emissions decreased by an average of 18 per cent in each local authority. In Dorset, emissions decreased by 20 to 25 per cent. Although lockdowns will clearly have impacted transport data, previously emissions had fallen by just two per cent annually.
However, with global warming increasing, more needs to be done to reduce carbon emissions. Transport is a significant contributor, producing 24 per cent of the UK’s total emissions, even in lockdownaffected 2020. To that end, schemes like the bus fare cap are essential to encourage more use of public transport. In Germany, for example, it is now possible to buy a travel pass allowing unlimited train and bus travel across the entire country for one month for €49. You can’t get one return train ticket from Gillingham to London for that!
Editor Laura’s son recently discovered a new independence with a £2 price tag. Struggling to get a driving test, he’s been reliant on Dadcabs, with ticket prices discouraging him in the past from opting for a bus.
‘I went to Yeovil for the day to see a friend, couldn’t get a lift so had to resort to the bus –and discovered the £2 charge. Admittedly I did miss my bus home, and ended up getting the wrong one towards Wincanton
so Dad could collect me half way in Henstridge. But then I had a hospital appointment in Blandford, so I took myself and went to my fave barber while I was there. Once I realised about the £2 cap, the door was opened and now I’m making regular plans. Working to a rural bus schedule isn’t brilliantly convenient, but you can definitely make it work with a bit of a plan.’
If you live in the Blackmore Vale, you can get to several interesting places for £2 each way (and for free if you have a bus pass!).
• A day at the beach (Blandford Forum to Bournemouth)
Imagine – no car parking nightmares or negotiating the roundabout at Canford Bottom. Take the X8 from Blandford to Poole. From Poole Bus Station take the M2 to Bournemouth town square. From there, it’s a short walk to the beach. Alternatively, the Breezer buses are included in the £2 cap so you can travel the scenic route from Poole to Swanage or Weymouth – even Lyme Regis.
• Pub Crawl to Sherborne
We’re not recommending you get drunk and disorderly on a bus, obviously. But a bonus of public transport is the ability to enjoy a pint or two without worrying about drinking and driving. On the
X4 route from Blandford to Yeovil, you’ll find several good pubs that are perfect for lunch out or a quiet drink. Try the Saxon Inn in Child Okeford, the Crown Inn at Marnhull, or the Tippling Philosopher in Milborne Port. And to work off all those calories, include a short circular walk around these beautiful villages as part of your day out
• New Forest Circular
With connecting buses from Salisbury (X3) and Poole (X6) you can spend a day travelling around the New Forest on one of three tour buses which will take you past spectacular views on a circular route – and of course you can stop off where you like and simply get the next bus. Stops include Lyndhurst, Brockenhurst, Exbury Gardens and more.
Contrary to popular perception, there’s a lot of choice when it comes to choosing a bus route in Dorset – and it’s good to remember they’re an option not just for a necessary shop or trip to the dentist but for Grand Days Out too.
To help with the planning, a simple Google search for ‘bus XX (starting town) to XX (destination)’ provides journey times and bus stop details. We all want to protect our rural transport, and it is essential we use it or we risk losing it.
If you were to believe the current media avalanche, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the answer to everything. It will run the country –perhaps the world – while being able to explain why people watch Mrs Brown’s Boys. Society is naturally concerned that this is in fact the beginning of a dystopia, where there will be no jobs for humans (only R2D2s will be gainfully employed), no essays will be written by a student with a pulse, our healthcare will be neglected (robots won’t need it, bar the odd drop of oil) and our food chain won’t function because the automatons will just need an electric charge now and then. But hasn’t this chaos already started? I’m no doubt over-simplifying it, but if AI is so bloody clever shouldn’t we be asking it the bigger questions? How humans can negotiate world peace. Cure cancer. Ensure the world’s growing population eats affordable, nutritious food and drink. Solve obesity, reverse climate change, promote local economies to solve macroeconomic issues, globally ... Get on with that Botty Chat.
Our government has recently addressed an element of the above with its muchpublicised Farm to Fork summit. A thinktank encompassing all those concerned with growing and selling produce in this country. Or not.
Yet again, those in power are only concerned with those in power. The agenda and guest list of that meeting was a closely guarded secret. I greatly respect the work of Minette Batters and the NFU, but they simply cannot represent all growers. Neither Sustain, the Soil Association nor the Food Farming and Countryside Commission were among the call up – among many others. The erstwhile DEFRA food tsar Henry Dimbleby wasn’t even consulted, even after his considerable (and governmentfunded) work on the National Food Strategy.
We’re all guessing which retailers did grace No.10 for the summit, as it’s a little clandestine. Rest assured the big four or five supermarkets would have been supping Rishi’s morning coffee. No invite for the Guild of Fine Food – which represents delis, farm shops and grocers – nor for the Association of Convenience Stores. As a back-of-an-envelope guess, that’s 150,000 independent retailers in the UK who sell food and drink whose opinion has been ignored. We must achieve robust and genuine industrywide food security.
Perhaps it’s simply another question for AI? It might, in fact, solve it in years to come. Personally I’d rather pull out the robot’s plug and simply be more inclusive.
A major government grant will enable the construction of a building at Dorset County Hospital (DCH) to house a new critical care unit and emergency department (ED). The announcement was made by the Department of Health and Social Care as part of its New Hospital Programme, which is expected to be backed by national investment of more than £20 billion.
DCH provides both emergency and planned care to approximately 300,000 people across the west and north of the county. Ever-greater demand is putting increasing pressure on the ED, which was designed to treat half the current patient number. Demand is expected to rise further due to increasing population and ever more complex needs of older people – the new building is essential to make sure that the increasing needs can be met. Anyone visiting an ED recently will most likely have experienced first-hand some of the challenges caused by the increasing demands on the service. However, our local hospital’s emergency department is ranked among the top ten in England – speaking volumes about the quality of care, despite being a busy place.
From 2025, the total capacity of the new ED will increase from 64 to 72 beds, while the new Critical Care Unit will have space for 24 beds (an increase of 13). Initial work is under way, ahead of the main construction, and approval has already been given to demolish the West Annex at the site. The ED layout will be reconfigured and updated, with new dedicated areas for both major and minor injuries, paediatrics and a bespoke mental health facility. The integration of mental health with a dedicated unit inside emergency care is important. A recent report from the Royal College of Emergency Medicine identified that, although a relatively small number of people with mental health issues present to EDs, they are some of the most vulnerable in our communities, and twice as likely to have a significantly longer stay in the department. There will also be an ambulance offload and rapid assessment area. A helipad will be located on the roof, and a new entrance for the public will be located on Damers Road. Air ambulances are increasingly important in rural areas and enable people to be treated significantly faster. Last year, Dorset and
Somerset Air Ambulance was called 2,424 times to emergencies, with almost half of these due to trauma incidents and a quarter down to cardiac events. Their busiest month is June.
Matthew Bryant, chief executive of Dorset County Hospital, says: ‘We are delighted that the government has announced its continuing commitment to the Dorset County Hospital scheme as part of the New Hospital Programme. This development is very important for Dorset and will deliver a state of the art Emergency Department and an expanded Critical Care Unit in Dorchester for patients most in need of life-saving care. It’s an exciting time for the team at Dorset County Hospital. This expansion will improve care for patients and help us attract and retain staff who want to provide high quality specialist healthcare in modern facilities.’
Commenting on the announcement, West Dorset MP Chris Loder says: ‘This is a significant milestone in the history of Dorset County Hospital, and it will have wide-reaching, long-lasting benefits for patients and staff. I am pleased that the government have recognised the value and strategic importance of our county town’s hospital, and that the improvements are needed.’ While the construction project takes place, the Emergency Department is still open to the public in Dorchester. People in North Dorset also have choices when accessing advice for minor health problems such as using a pharmacist, visiting a minor injuries unit, or calling 111.
Our local hospital’s emergency department is ranked among the top ten in England
3rd and 4th June 2023
Showcasing a range of exhibitors offering a spectacular array of plants and garden must haves, as well as the opportunity to talk to experts and gain helpful advice.
TICKETS £14.50 PER PERSON
For more information visit:
Plumber Manor, a family-run restaurant with a 500-year past, celebrates its enduring appeal with its unique blend of authenticity and homeliness
While Plumber Manor may this month be celebrating its 50th anniversary as a restaurant, it has been in the family far longer. In fact, even when Thomas Hardy was living in nearby Sturminster Newton, it had already been the Prideaux-Brune family home for centuries, built by Charles Brune in the early 1600s. Current owner Richard inherited Plumber (pronounced with the ‘b’) when he was 21.
‘It’s a young age to have a place like this. I was farming at the time, I wasn’t even married –not quite anyway. My parents had gone to the Isle of Man, and it just became patently obvious that the pig farming I was doing, although great fun, was not going to be sufficiently profitable to pay for the upkeep of the house.
‘Alison and I were married in 71, and we were friendly with a chap down in Devon who had a similar place. It was quite unusual; very un-hotel-y, you
know, rather homely. We stayed with him a couple of times, and he said: “you should have a go, I think you’d be good at it”. ‘We umm-ed and aaaah-ed about it, but he came and stayed with us and gave us lots of advice. Then we got a job in
Leamington Spa at a hotel to see if we could put up with … the change of hours more than the actual work. It’s completely different from farming, where you’re finished at seven every night. With this, you’re just starting! We came home and
just decided to go for it.’
‘We opened Plumber in ‘73,’ says Alison. ‘It was exactly ten days after Katherine was born! Then a year later Susie came along. I used to feed them both behind the bar, popping them into a Moses basket while I was working. I was still breastfeeding, so it was five minutes into the basket to take an order, then back for a five minute feed … Susie actually arrived nearly a month early, so for a time I had two children under the age of one.’
‘We didn’t have a big staff,’ says Richard. ‘My brother Brian was doing the cooking and we had to have some staff, of course. We couldn’t manage everything ourselves, but in those days it was mostly just us.’
‘We did split jobs’ says Alison ‘Richard was in the office. I did the garden. But mostly we just all mucked in. In those days I did the early morning teas. If I had a small child that had just been fed, I took the teas round wearing a dressing gown. And no one thought anything of it!’ ‘Things were different,’ agrees
Richard. ‘I haven’t seen one single guest that I can remember in the last ten years come down to breakfast in a dressing gown. Years gone by it wasn’t necessarily normal, but you really wouldn’t have
remarked upon it.
‘Mind you, people don’t dress for dinner anymore. I think that’s a sad thing. There used to be a formality; if you went out, you went out with a jacket and a tie. You don’t do that anymore.’
Alison added: ‘you have been known to say “Can I lend you a pair of trousers?” to the odd person who has turned up in a pair of shorts!’
‘We’ve always regarded ourselves as a restaurant with bedrooms,’ says Richard. ‘We were lucky enough to get into the Michelin Guide, which was quite important in those
days. And people looked for a restaurant et chambres, because they didn’t have the same kudos, the same expense or the same formality. We knew they were very much sought after by our target customers. And it fitted us well – I’ve never thought of ourselves as a hotel, we don’t really give hotel service. We do our dinners. We do our Sunday lunch. We do parties. But we don’t have people having hot drinks and sandwiches and the like during the day. We don’t work like that; but you would be surprised if a hotel wasn’t doing that.
‘People ask why we don’t do lunch, and I’ll tell you exactly why. I’m paying two chefs at the moment. I don’t want to pay another chef just to fart around and do the odd lunch, that people usually want for next to nothing, pretty much. You must be joking! So we’ve never changed the format.
’The restaurant, to start with, was more important than the rooms, because we only had six bedrooms. We didn’t go in for a big advertising campaign, I don’t think we did anything much at all! We were mentioned in a
couple of guide books before we started, which did us no harm, and we just rubbed along on word of mouth. But the restaurant, by end of year one, was full every Saturday night. We’ve been in the Good Food Guide every year for more than 40 years now.
Not for the toffs
‘The one thing that people do like is the fact that they all get treated the same. You’d be amazed, years ago, how many people thought Plumber was “for the toffs”, and “far too smart” for the likes of them. ‘Now, thankfully, everyone feels comfortable. It was very different when we opened – and it’s good things have changed. I remember one gruff military chap, he wasn’t a bad old stick really, who said: “I do hope you’ll keep the standards here old boy. The day you let ’em take their jackets off is the day you’ll be finished.” That was the attitude back then.
‘But our repeat customers are the best commendation we can get. Christmas is almost the same crew every year – they greet us like we’re family, and
each other too, which is lovely; they’ve got to know each other because they’ve been coming here so long.’
Plumber Manor has been a popular destination since it opened, but over the years it’s particularly become known locally as the place for special occasions. Birthdays, anniversaries, engagements, new jobs … so many are marked by a meal at Plumber.
‘Our local support means so much – and it’s reciprocated. Everything we do is sourced locally where at all possible. Not just the food in the restaurant, either. Some years ago, we needed to change all the room televisions; we needed 20. Someone told me I’d get a deal online, but I said no, I’m going to buy them from Marsh’s. They tried to tell me it’d be far too expensive, but I bet I didn’t pay a tenner a telly more than anywhere else. Marsh’s have always looked after the local people. Harts is another great local business. We will always support the local businesses any time we can. I think that’s what it’s all about. A strong local market means that the chances are you’re going to survive when things are a bit tricky. You’ve got that support, and they’ll look after you in return.’
There must have been some tough patches along the way?
‘Possibly the most challenging was when the interest rates went up to 15 per cent in the early 90s. We were heavily borrowed, having extended the barn, and all of a sudden things dried up. Business went down as we were forced into these astronomical rates of interest. That was a very tricky time.’
The original six bedrooms in the main house were added to over the years by converting
barns in the courtyard to create ten more rooms. I’m curious to know how much Plumber has changed since 1973?
‘There’s something which is said to me virtually every day,’ says Richard. ‘It’s always “Plumber just doesn’t change, it’s marvellous”. It’s the atmosphere, I think. You know, you can’t change a place like this unless you completely change the ethos.’
‘Although we have got rid of the avocado baths,’ adds Alison. ‘We had to work on that. Richard was not easily persuaded.’ ‘Listen, I couldn’t give a stuff what colour the bath is as long as the water is hot. But what I didn’t like was having to pay for the replacements. That was the long and the short of it!’
Oldest daughter Katherine has overseen refurbishments in recent years, sympathetically and gently updating and refreshing, but not essentially
changing things (she was thrilled when they finally removed the tired floral carpet in the dining room and discovered the original wooden flooring underneath. Not only was it utterly beautiful, it was a much cheaper option. Richard was thrilled!).
The Plumber welcome is one of genuine warmth – you get the feeling that Richard and Alison remember every single guest who has stayed with them in the last 50 years. Ultimately, Plumber remains a home at its heart, a fact that makes Alison happy:
‘The house is still the nucleus of the family. We all gravitate back here. One of our daughters has a birthday party here on Saturday. All the family are coming, grandchildren too. And we’ve got a big 50th the week after that, with all the family –and I do mean everyone. They all come here, because Plumber is where we celebrate, too.’
‘I couldn’t give a stuff what colour the bath is as long as the water is hot!’How the bar (opposite) used to look by Laura Hitchcock
The family-run newsagents celebrates its half-century, surviving industry shifts, local changes – and personal losses
‘How are all the children? They must be grown now – I remember when you had your first. Three boys and then you had a girl ... are they all well?’
Anne Smith’s greeting takes me aback. My ‘first’ is 24 now, and it’s been a very long time since I took my trio of small boys on a Saturday morning trip to Candy’s newsagents in Sturminster Newton for a pick ‘n’ mix treat. I’m not sure I’ve ever taken our 16-year-old daughter.
Yet 81-year-old Anne remembers. In fact, throughout our hour-long conversation in the shop – where she still works every day – not a single customer comes in who’s not greeted by name and a short but unhurried chat.
Anne and Tony Smith began looking for a newsagent’s shop to buy in 1973.
‘We were living in Virginia Water in Surrey, and were just looking for a newsagents that was for sale. Dorset wasn’t intentional. We were looking all over. But we decided that the business and Sturminster Newton were for us, and that was it.
We spent a week in a Weymouth caravan park at the end of June, and our first day doing the papers was 1st July 1973. I said to Tony: “we need to get cracking
and learn the area!”.
‘We don’t deliver nearly so many newspapers now, we used to have more than 10 rounds. ‘When we arrived, the shop was very basic. There were no news racks and magazines, no stationery. And of course it was all big jars of sweets, bought in 4oz paper bags!
‘We initially lived downstairs; the shop was just a small cross section of the front of the property. What is now the
National Lottery and local books alcove used to be my kitchen, and the card department was our sitting room.
‘We managed to buy the cottage next door, which was derelict, and made its ground floor into what is now the garage and stock room. We switched to living upstairs and managed to triple the shop floor space.’
‘The papers were stacked on the doorstep before 5.30 back then,’ says Anne. ‘They used to come down on the train to Yeovil Junction, and the distributor used to have a whole carriage. The papers came off the train and got loaded immediately on to the vans and straight out to the shops. But then we had rail strikes, and it was decided to bring them down on lorries. It’s never been as efficient.’
Ashley, Anne and Tony’s son, was born three years after they arrived in Sturminster Newton. ‘Born here … still here!’ he says. ‘I do some of the village deliveries by car now. But there’s only so much time that you can devote to the newspapers and deliveries when you’ve got a shop to run. I’m out for about three hours every day, delivering.’
It’s a big commitment for a small family business. Anne admits she’s had just two single weeks holiday since the 1970s. Ashley is more relaxed about taking a break, happy to get away after the Saturday morning papers are sorted ... but admits he has to be back for the magazines by Wednesday lunchtime. Neither seems to mind in the least.
‘Probably the biggest change in 50 years is the swing from news deliveries to counter service,’ says Anne. ‘In the 70s and 80s most people had a paper delivered or read one most days. Now, few people want the papers. But the shop itself is busier, it balances out. I do like a newspaper myself, it’s probably an age thing, but I’m all for technology. I’ve got online banking, I’m paying bills on my iPad. It suits me, I can see every morning what’s gone through.’
‘It’s a social shift,’ adds Ashley, ‘we all consume … where one shrinks, another grows.’
The Candy’s dog has been another fixture in the town; locals fondly remember Elliott,
the golden retriever who liked to lie across the pavement outside. Bentley, another golden, preferred to sit in the doorway, frequently sneaking off to rummage in takeaway’s bins. The current resident, May, is by far the best behaved, Ashley says.
Tony died very suddenly in 1997, leaving Anne and the then-21year-old Ashley to wonder what they should do. ‘I said to Ashley, “We’ll give it 18 months, see how we go. If we sink, we’ll just have to get out”. It was so unexpected. Such a blow,’ Anne says. ‘That was without doubt the toughest of times. But the whole town stepped up for us.’
It was standing room only at Tony’s memorial service, as Sturminster Newton turned out to support Anne and Ashley and to mark his passing.
‘It was hard,’ says Anne. ‘But we’ve also been through I don’t know how many recessions. There aren’t many shops like us left now. In essence we haven’t changed. News and magazines,
confectionery and stationery. That’s us. When we came, there were two small stands of cards. We built the range and now they are one of our biggest sellers. The biggest change has probably been in the town itself,’ says Ashley. ‘We’ve seen nearly all of the housing estates go up. And of course the town shops …’ At this point the interview descended into a delightfully meandering five-way conversation with Anne, Tony, their assistant Sue, with a random customer chipping in, about what is now the Factory Shop which was originally Norman’s Supermarket, before it changed to Buy-Lo and eventually became the first Coop, before they moved. What is now Marsh’s used to be a florist, and before it was a florist it belonged to Peter Mount’s mum and dad, it was a Spar, and Peter was in what is now Gallery One as a greengrocer. He took on the Spar shop, then moved down to the old railway yard and opened the supermarket which eventually became Normans …
Last year’s inaugural Classic & Supercar Sunday blew everyone’s socks off with 180 drop-dead gorgeous classic and supercars exhibiting in the blazing sunshine at Clayesmore School.
‘Last year we had a Ferrari F40, offering the rare opportunity to view such an iconic car – we were really happy that the owner even allowed the public to sit inside!’ says organiser Zander Miller. ‘We also had an Alfa Romeo GTAM (one of only 500 examples in the world), and a Ferrari SF90 Stradale, Ferrari’s latest and greatest hybrid technology which reaches more than 200mph.
‘Meridian Modena, the local Ferrari dealership, brought its brand new Ferrari 296 GTB demonstrator car.
‘And then the classic cars ranged from 1920 to 1997; we had an
Aston Martin DB2 and an Aston Martin DB11 – the two are 70 years apart!’
Over 1,500 guests strolled the grounds enjoying cars, delicious street food, stunning cocktails and, of course, brilliant music! It was a great vibe, and this year is set to be bigger and better ... more exhibitors, more cars attending and a packed programme of activities. There well be two scheduled ‘REV OFFs’ – everyone’s there to hear the roar of the visiting supers, after all! There will also be guest speakers and judges to help award the Best Club Stand, the People’s Choice Award and more. It’s a family event with plenty of fun for the kids too!
Buy tickets herebit.ly/classicsupercar2023
• The organisers are keen for classic & supercar owners and club to sign up to exhibit. Please register here: apertaevents.co.uk/paddock
Like food and music, theatre in the open air is always special. Dorset’s lucky to have some of the best venues and a strong reputation of touring outdoor productions in the summer months. Some of them are really worth making a longer trip to see.
As always, Shakespeare is high on the list of productions, but several companies have chosen newer shows, and even a couple of original plays written specially for summer 2023. Most are in the evening, but there are some daytime performances for younger members of the family. Audiences are usually
encouraged to take low backed chairs (so as not to spoil the view for the people behind) or rugs, and picnics are to be eaten before the action starts or in the interval – not during the performance!
Fifteen of the touring companies are coming to, or quite near to, The BV’s area. All you have to do is to book early to avoid disappointment and send up a prayer to the weather gods for a warm, dry night!
Chapterhouse
One of the best-established companies, Chapterhouse, brings The Importance of Being
Earnest to Holme for Gardens near Wareham on 30th July. The company is also touring Sense and Sensibility, coming to the same venue on 7th August and then to Stourhead on 27th and 28th August. In between, the Chapterhouse production of The Secret Garden comes to Stourhead on 22nd and 23rd August.
Festival Players
Festival Players’ 2023 summer tour is Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, coming to Shaftesbury Abbey on 24th June and Abbotsbury Sub-Tropical Gardens on 26th June. It will be performed at Speeds Farm, Lamyatt (near Bruton) on 8th July and the beautiful Meerhay Manor at Beaminster on 27th August.
Folksy Theatre
Folksy Theatre has two touring plays, Shakespeare’s The Merry Wives of Windsor and Andersen’s The Ugly Duckling. The Merry Wives is at the ECOS Amphitheatre in Frome on 2nd August, overlooking Lyme Bay at the Marine in Lyme Regis on 3rd, and at Holme for Gardens near Wareham on 11th August. The little duck who turned out to be a
Balmy summer nights are coming; it’s time to take the risk and book for one of the many open air plays coming to a garden or a field near youThree Inch Fools performing in 2022 Illyria’s 2023 production of Robin Hood
swan is at Holme for Gardens on Saturday 5th August, at 3pm.
The all male troupe that specialises in travelling between venues on bicycles, is touring
A Midsummer Night’s Dream this year, stopping at the Roman Villa at Rockbourne on 21st June, Maumbury Rings in Dorchester on 23rd and the Marine Theatre at Lyme Regis on 24th.
Heartbreak
This summer Heartbreak has three shows on tour. The Shakespeare medley, MacHamLear, comes to Holme for Gardens near Wareham on 19th July, Bad Dad, the David Walliams adaptation, comes to Maumbury Rings in Dorchester on 2nd August, Corfe Castle on 3rd and Somerset Cider Brandy at Kingsbury Episcopi on 4th August. Sense and Sensibility is at Maumbury Rings on 18th August.
The Last Baguette is touring the original show Pandora’s Box, coming to the Millennium Green in Bridport on 3rd August, to Winterborne Stickland on 16th and the Marine Theatre at Lyme Regis on 17th August.
Another of the longestestablished touring companies, Illyria has three productions this year, Twelfth Night, Robin Hood and Pride and Prejudice
The Shakespeare play of mistaken identity and love is at Castle Gardens in Sherborne on 5th July, and at the ECOS Amphitheatre in Frome on 3rd September. Robin Hood is at Kingston Lacy near Wimborne on 3rd August, and Jane Austen’s ever popular romance is at Castle Gardens, Sherborne on 14th July and Frome ECOS on 14th, as well as in the extraordinary setting of Corfe Castle on 10th August.
The all-male Lord Chamberlains Men are performing the world’s greatest love story, Romeo and Juliet, on tour this summer. See them in June at Glastonbury Abbey (7th), Lyme Regis Marine (8th) or Rack Close in Salisbury Cathedral Close on 9th and 10th. They will also be performing at Kingston Lacy on 27th July and at Breamore House on 26th August.
The Pantaloons
The Pantaloons is another company with three tours on the road for 2023. They will be performing Jane Austen’s Emma at Wells’ Bishop’s Palace on 3rd August, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland at Midelney Manor near Langport on 4th August and at Wells Bishop’s Palace on 9th August. Shakespeare’s Antipholus and Dromio will be playing out their Comedy of Errors at Rockbourne Roman Villa on 20th July and at Montacute House near Yeovil the following night.
The summer touring trio from Quantum Theatre is A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Wind in the Willows and The
Tales of Peter Rabbit. The Dream is at the ECOS, Frome on 11th June and Glastonbury Rural Life Museum on 15th August. The Wind in the Willows will be performed alongside the Avon at the Wardrobe Rifles Museum in Salisbury Cathedral Close on 25th July, and Peter will be soporifically searching for lettuce at the Salisbury museum on 10th August and at Corfe Castle on 24th August.
There’s another outing for Shakespeare’s A Comedy of Errors with Rain or Shine, the company whose weather policy is in the name. They will be at All Saints School in Montacute on 30th June, Bishop Wordsworth’s School in Salisbury on 7th July, Upper Leigh Farm in East Knoyle on 21st July, the Roman Villa at Rockbourne on 10th August and Prince Albert Gardens in Swanage on 14th August.
The company whose style is Commedia del’Arte and which always brings an original show, Rude Mechanicals has devised the tale of Miss Popplewell’s Garden for 2023. See it in June at
the Square and Compass, Worth Matravers (9th), Abbey House in Abbotsbury (10th) and on the Village Hall Field at Stourpaine on 29th. In July it will be performed at East Farm, Tarrant Monkton (20th), Mill Farm at Bradford Abbas (21st) and Child Okeford Recreation Ground on 22nd.
The spin-off of The Handlebards, Slapstick Picnic exchanges bicycles for an English afternoon tea, and has chosen Peter Pan for this year’s show. See it at the Larmer Tree at Tollard Royal on 20th July, Maumbury Rings in Dorchester on 22nd and the Marine at Lyme Regis on 23rd July.
The troupe of actor-musicians
Three Inch Fools has two shows this year, Shakespeare’s As You Like It and Robin Hood. Follow the adventures of Rosalind and Orlando in the Forest of Arden at
Beaminster Manor on 11th June, Upton Country Park near Poole on 16th August and Stourhead on 25th August. Robin Hood will be in Nottingham Forest at Higher Orchard, Sandford Orcas on 15th August, Corfe Castle (great setting!) on 17th August and Stourhead gardens on 26th August.
One of the newer companies, Troubadour Stageworks also
The lovely English country garden of The Old Rectory, Rectory Road, Piddlehinton will be the setting for the village’s annual Church Fete this year.
There is to be a display by Dorchester Ballet and Dance Club, children’s races, a coconut shy, skittles, the obligatory ‘welly whanging’ and pony rides. The popular fun dog show will have classes for every dog! Not to mention there wil of
course be the chance to buy from the many well-stocked stalls; bric-a-brac, plants, cakes, preserves and books. And of course, the Silent Auction and Raffle will b oth have wonderful prizes on offer. After all that you’llhave earned a sit down – and perhaps partake of the hog roast, enjoy an afternoon teas, an ice cream ... or just head for the Pimm’s stall?! Join the villagers and enjoy
has two productions on tour –The Odyssey and Romeo and Juliet. See the world’s most famous lovers at Hatch House in West Hatch on 10th June and Bush Farm at West Knoyle on 9th September. Homer’s hero does his thing at Kingsettle Stud, Cholderton on 30th August.
• For more details of all these productions, go online to either the company or the venue, where all booking details should be available.
a wonderful afternoon of entertainment for the whole family. Set in the beautiful Piddle Valley, just five miles north of Dorchester (DT2 7TE), everyone is welcomed to the lovely village. Entry is £1.50 Adults, free for under 16s. All profits to charity.
Tickets for the Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival, this year on the 9th and 10th of September, are now on sale. As always, the weekend will feature a wide variety of food and drink from across the West Country, including (you guessed it) the star
of the show – cheese! There will also be the usual array of crafts to tempt you, as well as children’s entertainment, the essential Real Ale & Cider Tent and live bands will be playing throughout the two days.
New for 2023 is a weekend ticket:
currently at an early bird price of £12 (only available in advance). Early Bird prices are now on offer on all tickets prices – and don’t forget children aged 15 and under go free!
Tickets and more information at cheesefestival.co.uk
The five day Summer Festival combines everything beautiful for your home … inside and out!
At our Fire & Food Outdoor Kitchen we will be running a series of BBQ demonstrations every day, including Marcus Bawdon from the UK BBQ School, pizza masterclasses with Martin Sviba, Luke Vandore-Mackay from High Grange demonstrating Kamado Joe’s, Moroccan cooking with Simon Gudgeon, Vegan BBQ with Vegan Magda along with many others.
There will also be a selection of stalls cooking delicious food for you to eat while you watch! There will of course be BBQ’s and accessories for sale, too, and the Brace of Butchers will be talking
about different cuts of meat and how to cook them. The very best artists and makers in Dorset will be showcasing their craft in the spectacular surroundings at Sculpture by the Lakes. Many exhibitors will, in addition to selling their works, be demonstrating their skills to allow you to appreciate the process of their craft. Watch pots being thrown, live raku firing, blacksmith forging, printmaking and much more.
Join us for the Summer Festival – it’s going to be a wonderful day out!
28th June to 2nd July. Entry £14.50, and includes entry to the sculpture park.
Book tickets sculpturebythelakes.co.uk
One of Britain’s most distinguished painters, Philip Sutton RA, celebrates his 95th birthday in October. Ahead of that milestone, Sladers Yard, the contemporary gallery at West Bay, has a major retrospective of his work, running to 8th July. Next month, The BV will have an interview with the Dorset-based colourist, talking about his life and his joyous approach and love of the natural world. The exhibition of more than 100 works includes never previously exhibited paintings and work released for the first time by his family. Showcasing 65 oil paintings, 25 works on paper and 21 ceramics, the collection represents one of the most comprehensive assemblages of Sutton’s art. There will be an event at Sladers Yard on Friday 9th June at 6pm when Philip Sutton will be in conversation with Maureen Murray. Numbers are limited and tickets will be essential. Tickets £6 – Please call 01308 459511.
Hailed by Jools Holland as “an extraordinary young talent” and compared by Tom Jones to Little Richard, Tom Seals is already a huge hit, enjoying regular sellout shows at London’s legendary Ronnie Scott’s, the world-famous Birdland Jazz Club in New York City and the prestigious Dubai Opera House.
Fresh from a series on Sky TV, ‘Tom Seals Presents…’ is an exciting, ground-breaking music chat show. And he’s coming to Wimborne - be ready for a funpacked evening!
The Godfather of Glam, MBE and genuine national treasure, Slade
legend Noddy Holder will look back over a lifetime of towering achievements, re-living the heady days of the pop-tastic 70s ... and 80s and 90s. He’ll choose his favourite songs for Tom Seals and his band to perform, combining them with a wild night of stories – from his early days on the West Midlands beat scene, a stint as roadie for Robert Plant, all-conquering Top of the Pops appearances, endless world tours, thespian triumphs and of course the ever-changing the face of fashion!
Tickets £26 from Tivoli Theatre
SAT 22ND JULY
Featuring The Lindy Hop Dance Company & The Harry Strutters Hot Rhythm Orchestra Take a step back into 1920s & ’30 - Swinging at The Cotton Club’ is the action-packed show celebrating the music and dance of New York’s most celebrated nightclub of the 1920s and ‘30s. (£21/£22)
FRI 18TH AUGUST
A celebration of rock music from the seeds of ROCK & ROLL in the 1950s, the birth of ROCK in the 60s, right through to the CLASSIC ROCK of the 70s and 80s (£22)
SAT 1ST JULY
SAT 19TH AUGUST
Adult comedy puppet theatre, following a hit run at the Edinburgh Fringe Eurovision as you have never seen it before! 12+ (£11)
Jamie Moses of Los Pacaminos alongside 3 world-class musicians who between them have accompanied some of the greatest names in popular music, playing Pop, Rock, Soul and Classic Hits. The ultimate party band! (£17.50)
FRI 8TH SEPT
Ahoy there! You are invited join the plentiful crew, ‘The Old Time Sailors’, for a night of foottstomping, dancing and singing with eclectic instruments as the band perform centuries old folk and shanty songs (£18)
Shaftesbury Fringe: loved by performers for its friendly crowd and beautiful setting.
The Shaftesbury Fringe Festival, set for 21st to 23rd July, is gearing up for another outstanding event –this year’s festival looks like it wil be the best yet for stand-up comedy. Known by its vibrant rhubarb and custard branding, the festival currently has scheduled 38 comedy performances and 112 performances, spanning a broad range of genres such as spoken word, theatre, dance, cabaret, and diverse music types for the three-day festival. Fringe chairman Rob Neely explains: ‘Our Fringe Festival has been developing something of a reputation on the fringe circuit over the past few years, partly for the beauty of its setting, but mainly for the warmth of its welcome – that’s very attractive to comedians wanting to fine-tune their acts in front of a friendly crowd before they head up to Edinburgh Fringe in August.’
Award-winning comedian Dave Chawner, who will be back at Shaftesbury Fringe for a second this year, agrees: ‘I love Shaftesbury Fringe! It’s a brilliant festival in one of the most beautiful places. It’s so useful for me to trial the show before Edinburgh, to iron out any kinks.’
Other comedians include Barry Ferns, who writes for BBC Radio and Channel 4; Fringe regular Nathan Cassidy, described as a “star in waiting” by The Times and winner of Best Standup at Brighton Fringe 2022; “ukulele-totin’” musical comedy duo Plastic Jeezus, winners of 2022’s South Coast Comedian of the Year; Jijeesh Jaimon, who will be returning this year to perform no fewer than 10 different gigs.
If comedy isn’t for you, the festival offers a plethora of performances across 38 venues, from Shaftesbury Arts Centre to the Truckle Truck mobile cheese van. To keep up to date and plan what to see, the best way is via the app (search “Shaftesbury Fringe 2023” on both the Apple App Store and Google Play).
Organisers anticipate that the total performances might surpass 2019’s pre-pandemic record of 179. Registration is still open for those interested in performing, with more information available on the festival’s website.
Shaftesbury Rotary Club’s Gold Hill Festival will be held at Barton Hill on Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd July. As well as the usual terrific range of stalls, music and fun, this year’s festival will, for the first time, feature a Fun Dog Show, sponsored by Branscombe Kennels and Cattery. The Dog Show will take place on Sunday 2nd July from 11am to 4pm.
Classes will be as follows:
• 11am Best Dressed Dog
• 12 noon Best Dog/Owner Match
• 1pm Cutest Dog
• 2pm Sweetest Eyes
• 3pm Waggiest Tail.
As well as prizes for the category winners – kindly
donated by Friars Moor Veterinary Clinic – there will be rosettes for the first to fourth placed dogs in each category. Spot prizes will also be awarded by the judges, and every entrant will also receive a doggie gift! There will be an entry fee of £5.00 –please register your interest by emailing win.harvey1949@outlook.com.
Let nature be your inspiration as you learn a new craft in the beautiful surroundings of Bere Marsh Farm. Organised by the Countryside Regeneration Trust (the CRT), there are four creative workshops coming up this summer, all led by experienced local artists in a relaxed and friendly environment. All tools and materials will be provided, while hot and cold drinks and delicious homemade snacks will be available to purchase on the day from The Buzz – the CRT’s pop-up coffee trailer. Book your place today on one of the CRT’s summer workshops:
Nature Writing
Friday 23rd June
Two sessions – 9.30am or 1pm Learn techniques to deepen your connection to nature on this playful and gentle creative nature writing workshop with poet, writer and performer Sarah Acton.
Adults £30 (CRT Friends/Volunteers £25)
Wool Weaving
Saturday 1st July
10am to 1pm
With the aid of local weaving expert, Jo Nash, learn traditional techniques for preparing the fleece for weaving, setting up a simple peg loom and then using uncarded wool fibre to create a beautiful natural tuffet to take home.
Adults £60 (CRT Friends/Volunteers £55)
Willow Basket Weaving
Saturday 12th August
9.30am to 4.30pm
With the expert guidance of local willow weaver, Yanina Stockings, you will learn several techniques and create your own patterns. By the end of the session you will have made a sturdy berry-collecting basket with a smooth wrapped handle.
Adults £80 (CRT Friends/Volunteers £75)
Willow Bird Feeders
Saturday 9th September
Willow Bird Feeder Creative Workshop
9.30am to 4.30pm
Make three different types of willow bird feeders for fatballs, seeds and to hang on a bird table, with the expert guidance of Yanina Stockings.
Adults £73 (CRT Friends/Volunteers £68)
All workshops at Bere Marsh Farm, Shillingstone, DT11 0QY – for bookings click: thecrt.co.uk
Shillingstone, Dorset, DT11 0QY
May to September 2023
Be inspired and enjoy the countryside this summer at our creative workshops, all set in the idyllic surroundings of Bere Marsh Farm. Discover and hone your crafting talents, from art and creative writing to willow and wool weaving.
Book your place today: theCRT.co.uk/events
A Quaker-led textile art exhibition which looks at the threats to the natural world from environmental and climate change – and human behaviour – is coming to Wincanton over the weekend of 7th to 9th July.
Loving Earth is an international touring exhibition of panels by artists of all ages, some highly skilled textile experts and others total novices. Originally shown in 2019, it has toured widely, from Quaker meeting houses and the House of Commons to venues across Europe and the USA. It has previously been seen in Dorset and Somerset and is now in its final year olf touring, returning to the south west and makiing its first visit to Wincanton’s Quaker Meeting House. Of the more than 400 panels that have been made since the start of the project, around 60 are exhibited at the smaller venues.
The exhibition at the House of Commons earlier this year was the result of the Speaker of the House, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, seeing it in his own constitutency of Chorley. The panels have also been exhibited internationally in Ireland, France, Slovenia and the USA. The show at the Scottish Maritime Museum was praised as one of the best cultural events in Scotland for COP 26.
The Loving Earth project, initiated in 2019, was aimed at helping individual and communities in the UK and further afield to consider and respond to the climate crisis in a personal and original way. Each textile panel addresses threats to our environment from a different perspective, and is accompanied by details from the artist on why a theme is close to their heart and what responsive action they have taken. Places, people and wildlife
are all highlighted and numerous questions about the climate emergency are raised.
‘The project aims to help people engage creatively and constructively with loss and environmental breakdown, without being overwhelmed,’ says Linda Murgatroyd, clerk of Quaker Arts Network and project co-founder. ‘It illustrates a variety of actions individuals are taking, and their concerns that much more is urgently needed.’
One important aspect of the exhibition is the deep care and concern it displays for the survival of our planet and an awareness that, while none of us can solve the climate crisis alone, we can all be part of the solution
• For more information about this Quaker Arts Network exhibition, see the Loving Earth website
Paul King has swapped modern landscaping for an extraordinary, extravagant Victorian pleasure garden dating back to 1880
It’s seven in the morning. Paul King opens the door to his new “office”. No fusty filing cabinets here. Instead, a breathtaking site with manicured lawns, a green canopy of ancient trees and winding pathways that lure you in.
The 41-year-old is the new head gardener at the Larmer Tree Gardens, near Tollard Royal, a Victorian garden originating in 1880, nestling in the undulating fields of Rushmore Estate at the heart of Cranborne Chase. Created by the visionary General Augustus Pitt Rivers, it was the first privately-owned gardens to be opened for “public enlightenment and entertainment.”
Today it still does the same – a stunning space for picnics, relaxation and festivals alongside becoming an award-winning wedding venue. (I’m proud to say that, 23 years ago, my wedding was one of first in these exquisite gardens).
Paul is little more than five months into his role. ‘I’m still in awe every time I come through the gates,’ he says. ‘My welcome committee every day is free-flying macaws and strutting peacocks. I love being here first and having the garden to myself. I somehow expect to turn a corner and catch a glimpse of a Victorian child in a white dress and summer hat playing on the lawn.’
The gardens do exude a time-traveller charm
with quirky buildings, the shady Dell and even a Roman Temple. How does Paul feel about being responsible for a garden designated by English Heritage as a Garden of National Importance?
‘It’s an absolute privilege. The garden was here long before me and will be long after I’m gone. I feel like I’ve been here five years, not five months, and I put that down to settling in well. I’m not daunted. The challenge is exciting.’
In Victorian times these gardens would have employed an army of gardeners. Paul manages the huge workload with just one other full-time member of staff and Google (his go-to gardening guru). There’s also the juggling act of working around wedding ceremonies. ‘You can’t have a hedgecutter drowning out wedding vows –scheduling tasks is important!’
He’s also inviting horticultural students from Sparsholt College to gain work experience. ‘It’s great to have another pair of hands but I’m also keen to get people learning on the job. I’d have loved such an experience when I was at college.’
From an early age Paul knew he wanted to work outdoors. ‘As a kid, I was always out in the countryside, exploring on my bike. As an adult, I still struggle if I must go into an office for training. I
fidget if I’m indoors too long.’
Adamant that he didn’t want to take A-levels and certain he wanted to work outside, Paul studied at Wiltshire College gaining a National Diploma in Horticulture and a City and Guilds in Landscape Design and Construction.
‘I wanted to design gardens, build gardens and be in gardens.’ He did just that, working for landscape and gardening companies before becoming self-employed.
The Dell, which Paul is keen to restore to its gently undulating grass-banked original design
‘Gardening can be lonely at times, so I also worked for Avon and Somerset Police as part of the Neighbourhood Teams, investigating local crime and building up community relations. This gave me invaluable teamwork experience which comes into play here, working alongside the events team and the wider Rushmore Estate crew.’ There’s certainly no danger of getting lonely at Larmer Tree.
Paul, a keen historian, is already swotting up on the garden’s history so he can confidently answer the many questions visitors ask. ‘I’d love to reinstate garden tours as there’s so much history here. I really don’t mind having to do some homework.’ Not a list man (‘I’d just lose it somewhere in the garden’), Paul’s head is brim-full of ideas, including planting swathes of ornamental grasses and restoring the Dell back to its original Victorian splendour. ‘I’m keen to implement changes but not sweeping ones. I’m a fresh pair of eyes on a garden that has its roots in history and its future is evolving – I’m very well aware that this is a marathon not a sprint.’ And his advice to those of us with our own gardens? ‘Just sit and be in it! A pleasure in itself.’
A-list barbecue guests?
Actor Stephen Fry. I love his humour and he’s so articulate. I’m also a huge fan of 007 so Roger Moore – he’s my favourite Bond. The Queen, she was a keen gardener and of course, Pitt Rivers himself so I could better understand his vision.
Book by your bedside?
Ben Fogle’s Life Lessons from the Wilderness – another man who must be outdoors!
Instead of the huge team a Victorian head gardener would have enjoyed, Paul has just one assistant and is constantly busy
I have for some time believed that we have to balance our environmental concerns with our food security needs. As the Parliamentary Private Secretary to Ministers in DEFRA, I was therefore pleased to be at an early morning meeting with the Prime Minister in May to discuss food security issues as part of the Farm to Fork Summit. I was also very pleased to see that Dorset Cereals, one of our major local businesses – previously based in Dorchester and now operating from Poole – was a stallholder at the event. To address the criticisms I have heard levelled at the Summit as being ‘non-inclusive’, it is important to remember that there are only so many people you can fit into 10 Downing Street; I was actually impressed by the good number of important representatives who did attend. On another note, while it was good to have the NFU in attendance, it is worth noting that they only represent around 50 per cent of those working in the farming industry. It was great to see that other groups, such as the Tenant Farmers Association, were also present.
Fundamentally, this was a Summit about the UK food supply chain and its selfsufficiency, incredibly important topics. There were also lots of focussed discussion groups, each one having key government advisors in attendance to
get opinion and feedback. As the Dorset MP present, and especially being from a tenant farming background, rest assured that Dorset’s voice was heard loud and clear.
Later this month, on 29th June, polling stations will open from 7am to 10pm for residents of the Sherborne West ward, as more than 2,200 households face a by-election this month for a new Dorset councillor. It follows the resignation last month of Liberal Democrat councillor, Matthew Hall – who moved to Devon almost a year ago. This by-election provides the opportunity to restore a Sherborne voice to Dorset Council. Participating in local government can be a rewarding and insightful opportunity; I was the local councillor for the Cam Vale ward following a by-election in 2013, and the experiences I gained from local government were formative in developing my interest in national politics.
At the time of writing this article, only the Conservatives have formally adopted their candidate to contest the byelection. Rebecca Burns, who is a lifelong Sherborne resident and award-winning town business owner, was selected on 13th May by the West Dorset
Conservative Association. Rebecca has pledged to improve communication between electors and their local councillor and she has allready been out on the doorsteps, delivering letters, talking to residents and listening to their concerns. As someone who was born in Sherborne and who knows the town and its people well, I’m relieved that the community has Rebecca as a candidate. It genuinely makes a difference when a person born and raised in the area is the candidate representing the interests of local people. One of Rebecca’s main priorities is to re-open the enquiry desk at Sherborne Police Station – which has the backing of Dorset’s Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick. Being able to talk to a police representative in-person can make reporting crime less intimidating; a welcome move considering there were 74 incidents (including business-related crime and anti-social behaviour) reported in Sherborne in March alone. I am also pleased to hear that Rebecca is committed to respecting the town’s values and heritage, while wanting to introduce a more modern, refreshed approach to governance and representation. Local politics should be about local people, and in Sherborne West Rebecca certainly has my full support.
A balance of environmental concerns with food security – and local people must be at the heart of local politics, says MP Chris Loder
It makes a real difference when a local person, born and raised in the area, is a candidate
We were sitting having a cup of LibDem coffee in Shaftesbury at the weekend and the question was asked, ‘Who can you trust these days?’. We took soundings around the room and got some thought-provoking responses. A number had been to the Any Questions panel, recently broadcast live from Marnhull. It was felt strongly that the more credible panel members were the two non-politicians, not least because there seemed to be less “side”, less spin in their answers. Someone commented that Prime Minister’s Questions has taken the art of swerve and sidestep to new levels of pointlessness. We began to consider leaders of organisations who, in Sir Humphrey’s immortal words, appear to have had their trousers nailed to the mast such that they cannot climb down – however unreasonable their adopted position. The DUP, the Public and Commercial Services Union, the various rail trade unions and companies ... we found ourselves discussing other organisations also progressively losing their reputations and public trust: the water companies, energy companies, even the supermarkets under the twin clouds of profiteering and supply-chain brutality. In one of his answers on Any Questions, the CEO of Oxfam said that his organisation monitors the performance of the biggest 100 food and energy companies – whose profits have increased by £80 billion in the last period. It is by action, not words, not through spin but by substance, that we should make our
judgements on these organisations. Our group made special mention of the lack of credibility of the more pro-Brexit politicians and their supporters.
We turned to discussing those we can trust. We felt we can and do trust each other – there is nothing as powerful as a good team. We talked about the people in our various communities who can and do make a difference, who act for all in their locality, who are selfless rather than self-seeking. There were so many examples. So, the question begs; how can society harness the ethos and capabilities of such people? How can we rid ourselves of professional politicians who look to govern for the minority –the 30 per cent who always vote for them? We need a whole lot more truth and much, much less ideology and its consequences. The more we can bring the people in our communities who we do trust into government – local and national – the more inclusive will be the decision-making.
The problem, of course, lies in persuading ourselves and our friends and acquaintances to have the nerve and the resilience to step up and stand for election.
There are Dorset Council elections next year: same old, same old or something different? Come on, everyone. Think about standing!
Mike Chapman, North Dorset LibDems
Labour’s plans to “back the builders, not the blockers” took further shape this week with the announcement that the next Labour government would allow local authorities, including Dorset Council, to buy land at a lower price through Compulsory Purchase Orders, where justified and in the public interest. The idea is a simple one; because land without planning permission is worth more than land with planning permission (land with the “hope factor”), councils would be able to buy up land
at a lower rate.
As one of the most expensive places in Britain to rent or buy a home, local Dorset people struggle to afford to live in the area, even as housing costs continue to rise. The new policy would not only open the door to councils providing good quality local authority homes for rent at affordable prices, but also have a deflationary impact on a bloated housing market that increasingly prevents first time buyers from buying their first home.
The new policy is good news – not only for the 30 per cent of us who simply want reasonable rents in good quality homes with secure tenancies; or for those who aspire to own their homes and enjoy decreasing housing costs as their mortgage is paid back over the years – but for all of us who benefit from the stable, sustainable and vibrant communities that affordable housing helps to deliver. However, it will need a creative and aspirational Labour council as well as a creative and aspirational Labour government to really deliver the benefits to
people here in Dorset. So, as the preparation starts for both the local elections in Dorset next year and a General Election nationally, it’s time to start reflecting on how well-served we currently are by the stale, Tory-led council that has delivered increased Council Tax while winding down our local services and failing to deliver on housing, and an exhausted shambles of a Tory government that is fresh out of ideas despite appointing 15 Housing Ministers in 13 years.
Pat Osborne, North Dorset Labour Party
What a lively few weeks of mixed emotions we’ve had. Jubilation and joy, tempered with disappointment and dismay. The coronation brought joy to some, and disappointment to those who believe in the democratic right to peaceful protest. The police waded in to stamp out any hint of dissent, using the new powers given to them by the Tories’ Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act that became law last year. Their Public Order Act was given royal assent just days before the coronation. Such was their enthusiasm that the police even detained several Westminster Council volunteers who were simply handing out rape alarms!
The government claims that the legislation is necessary to stop protesters from disrupting the lives of ‘ordinary hard-working people’, but it’s more like an authoritarian means of silencing opposition to government policies. Nothing is going to disrupt all of our lives more than the increasing depletion and pollution of our environment and the changing climate which is steadily growing ever more extreme. We risk a time coming when all of us – environmental
activists and protesters included – will regret not having done more to force the government to take the urgent actions needed to protect our collective future.
Disappointed as he was by the local council election results, Rishi Sunak nevertheless vowed to plough on with what he claims are the peoples’ priorities. The election results suggest he would do well to reconsider those priorities. The Green Party’s surge in popularity doubtless reflects the growing environmental concerns of most people.
The Office for National Statistics reports that climate change is now the second biggest concern for 75 per cent of UK adults, demonstrating how out of touch the government is.
A record number of Green councillors were elected last month, up from 281 to 481. The total included 33 new councillors here in the South West. While we look forward to the next general election, the lack of proportional representation will inevitably mean that the result will continue to reflect the wishes of vested financial interests, media barons and wealthy donors, rather than those of the general populace.
We deserve better, do we not?
Ken Huggins, North Dorset Green Party
Despite being one of the busiest tourist spots in Dorset, this lovely route takes you away from the crowds – winding instead across the stunning heathlands that sit behind the famous beaches, right next door to the RSPB’s nature reserve at Arne.
Don’t be put off by the length of this route – it’s endlessly adaptable. Tracks and paths criss-cross the whole area, meaning you can chop it to any distance you choose.
If you’re a Springwatch fan, you might currently be considering exploring RSPB Arne. There are very few public footpaths across the reserve itself (understandably so), but that doesn’t mean the area can’t be enjoyed. As almost all the crowds head to the beach, the heaths and forests remain peaceful even in the height of the season.
We walked the route on a hot Saturday in May; the roads towards Studland were busy enough, but if you’re planning on a visit during July and August, or a weekend in June and September, we’d suggest making an early start to avoid the traffic. We parked easily on the roadside – but again, we suspect this will be trickier in-season.
The scenery and views are surprisingly varied along the route – the wide open, gorse-filled heathland gives way to tall pine forests, and there are also sections through lush farmland, deciduous forest
paths, one section gives a wonderful view of Corfe Castle and there are, of course, plenty of stunning sea views across Poole Harbour.
The route itself is simple to follow – paths are clearly marked, and there are no hills. It took us four hours to complete the route, plus half an hour for a picnic lunch break. If you want something shorter, the entire circuit has frequent paths spanning the loop, so you can cut across at multiple points to create your own route. Do take lots of water on a hot day – there are some pleasantly shady sections, but also long stretches on open heathland which give glorious views, but offer no respite from the sun.
CLICK HERE for more images and an interactive map (plus a downloadable gpx file)
We have always created and recently walked the routes we feature (See all previously-published routes here), so you know you can trust them. You can see all our routes (including many which are unpublished in The BV) on Outdoor Active, and all include a downloadable gpx file.
All images © Laura Hitchcock
Wild foxgloves are found scattered across much of Dorset’s hedgerows and woodland
The spires of purple foxglove growing far above our heads in wild corners of Dorset shout ‘June is here!’, says wildlife writer Jane Adams
June without foxgloves would be unthinkable. With their purple-pink spikes nodding in the breeze, they are a harbinger of warm summer days to come. No matter what madness is happening in the world, you can always rely on the foxglove spires to appear.
But for all their beauty and reliability, they hide a darker, more sinister side – every part of a foxglove is poisonous.
But poisons can have their uses. As early as the 13th century, European scholars documented the use of dried foxglove leaves as a treatment for heart conditions. The medical benefits were inconsistent, however and as an ancient saying warns, the foxglove has the power to ‘raise the dead or kill the living.’
With such a potent reputation, it’s no wonder foxgloves feature so prominently in British folklore. Villagers are encouraged to hang dried flowers over their doors to ward off evil spirits. Witches reputedly use foxgloves in their flying potions, and foxes slip the bell-shaped blooms over their toes in order to creep up on unsuspecting prey.
It wasn’t until the late 17th century that botanist and physician William Withering isolated the foxglove’s active ingredient. He called his discovery digitalis (after the foxglove’s scientific name, Digitalis purpurea) and soon its medical use became widespread. Even now, a molecule found in digitalis is synthetically produced to treat heart problems.
Although their biennial blooms are most commonly purple in the wild, pink or white are not unusual, and each spear of bells can contain hundreds of thousands of seeds.
Among the pollinators attracted to the plant are long-tongued
Look out for bees squeezing their hairy bodies into the flowers in search of nectar –covering themselves in pollen as they do so.
bumblebees. Look out for them, squeezing their hairy bodies into the flowers in search of nectar –buzzing like mad inside the tubes and usually covering themselves in pollen as they do so.
Over the years, the foxglove has picked up its fair share of colloquial names, from dead man’s bells and floppy-dock to goblin gloves and beardtongue.
But though I searched high and low, I couldn’t trace a local Dorset name. Maybe you know it? If you do, please let me know. Even though foxgloves are a common sight this time of year in gardens, woodland edges, meadows and on road verges, do beware. You just might glimpse a gloved fox out of the corner of your eye, silently stalking you...
It doesn’t matter what space you have – even a simple window box can be used thoughtfully to increase wildlife, says Dorset Wildlife Trust
With summer on its way and flowers blooming across the Blackmore Vale, you might be spending more time out in your garden. Whether you are a keen horticulturist or take a more hands-off approach, your garden or green space can act as a mini nature reserve.
A few simple steps can make a patch of any size an inviting home for wildlife, from the vital pollinators we rely on for food production to beautiful birds nesting in our trees and hedgerows. Whether you’re tending a garden, balcony, or window box, here are some ways to make it a welcoming space for wildlife.
• Planting for pollinators. Lavender, heather, borage –these plants are all magnets for bees, butterflies and the host of other insects that keep the ecosystem moving with their pollinating powers. This works whether it’s across a small meadow or a window-box, so you can help no matter what space you have. Autumn and spring are the best times to scatter wildflower seeds, but in the meantime, you can buy plants such as lavender and catmint, which will flower throughout summer and attract lots of bees and butterflies.
• Not using pesticides. Insects are vital for so many natural processes and are best left to thrive. Natural control methods can help keep your crops healthy. Attract hedgehogs, birds and toads to your garden with shelter, water and native plants and they may reward you by keeping populations of unwelcome visitors at bay. Companion planting
Catmint (nepeta) will flower through the summer, attracting lots of bees and butterflies.
is another great way to let natural processes help keep your plants healthy. Popular combinations include alliums, such as onions and leeks, growing alongside carrots to deter carrot fly, and growing calendula flowers with beans to draw away aphids.
• Adding a pond. A pond provides a fantastic habitat for a range of species, such as frogs and dragonflies, that you might not otherwise find in the garden. If possible, include a shallow edge with rocks and plants to provide a safe, sheltered place to drink and bathe for small wildlife species and insects. Purchase a mix of floating and
submerged native plants for optimum wildlife-friendliness inside the pond.
There’s no denying that space for wildlife habitats has been in decline for some time. As our population grows, so must our towns and demand for land for agriculture and industry. This inevitably leads to wild space being taken up for human use. Gardening with wildlife in mind is one way we can create allimportant ‘corridors’ to help wildlife recover and thrive.
Find out more about wildlife gardening and how you can support nature’s recovery at dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk
The Farm to Fork Summit on food security, which Prime Minster Rishi Sunak hosted at 10 Downing Street on Tuesday 16th May, marked a significant step in the NFU’s campaign for recognition of the strategic importance of British food and farming. The very first food summit of its kind was the culmination of more than a year’s work and campaigning by the NFU, who asked the Prime Minister to convene the whole supply chain. Farmers, food producers and some of Britain’s largest supermarkets came together to discuss the vital measures needed to build resilience and transparency quite literally from farm to fork, thereby strengthening productivity.
NFU President Minette Batters said: ‘I am absolutely delighted that the Prime Minister has delivered on the commitment he made to NFU members last year to host this summit. The number of Cabinet Ministers present shows the ambition for cross-departmental coordination to deliver measures to boost
home-grown food production. Many of the farmers and growers I represent will be relieved to see UK food security being taken seriously by the government.’ The summit coincided with several announcements from Government which represent major wins for the NFU:
• Reviews into fairness, specifically in the horticulture and egg supply chains
• A new bespoke £1m programme to help dairy businesses export
• Replacing the retained EU Fruit and Vegetable Producer Organisation Scheme when it closes in 2026
• Five additional agri-food and drink attachés who will help spearhead the removal of restrictive market barriers
• Making it easier to build new glasshouses through changes to national planning policy
• A commitment that the Groceries Code Adjudicator will not be merged with the Competition and Markets Authority, in recognition of its importance in ensuring our food supply chains function as they should
• Additional investment of around £20 million to unlock the potential of precision breeding.
Minette said that ‘the announcements made today show a recognition and an understanding of the strategic importance of British food and farming to the nation. They recognise the importance of coordinated action across government to support confidence, investment and growth in British food. ‘What we need now is to build on these announcements. We are calling for a set of core agrifood import standards for trade. While it is pleasing government is looking to maintain selfsufficiency at 60 per cent, we believe there’s an opportunity to produce much more of our own food here. We can and should be more ambitious and look to move beyond this target.
‘Vitally, the Farm to Fork Summit should become an annual event, as our food supply is part of the UK’s national infrastructure and will ensure that, across all parties, food security never drops down the political agenda again.’
It has been a busy time at Rawston Farm over the last few weeks. Firstly we had our dreaded 60 day TB test on all our cattle. We spent nearly four days testing, delaying the turn-out to grass of the young cattle in order to save the time getting them all back in from fields again. We ended up with a very disappointing result; two reactors and eight inconclusive reactors. The reactors were duly sent to the abattoir, and the results came back as ‘no visible lesions’, which means they probably didn’t have TB, but may have been exposed to it. We made the difficult decision to also send the inconclusive reactors to the abattoir under a special Animal Health licence – at our expense – as we felt it was unlikely that all of them would come clear at the next test, so would have to go to the abattoir anyway. The result from the inconclusive cattle was again ‘no visible lesions’ which now hopefully means the next 60-day test may go clear.
We have spent hours and hours testing cattle, without finding definitive positive results. I will be relieved when a cattle vaccine becomes available and we can get back to some sort of normality, selling again on the open market.
I also had a very distressing time personally with my beloved nine-year-old golden retriever dog Cassie. She suddenly became rather ill and after our local vets had examined her, it was decided to take her to the specialist vets at Ringwood. A flurry of scans found that she had fluid around the heart and a possible tumour on the heart too. The choice was to either carry out major heart surgery or have her put to sleep there. As any pet owner will agree you need a little bit of time to make that decision. I didn’t want to put her through major surgery, even though I had insurance to cover some of the cost, so I brought her home. The next
day she initially appeared fine, but by mid morning she really wasn’t well again. I took the very difficult decision to take her into our local vets and have her put to sleep.
I cannot praise the professionalism of the Damory vet enough, being nearly as upset as I was. You do wonder sometimes why we keep pets if we have to go through this experience – but the companionship and joy they give us I think far outweighs the sadness at the end.
On a more cheerful note, we have been busy silage-making for our cows’ winter feed. After the wet spring, May has been much drier and we have managed to make some quality (hopefully) silage – and a reasonable quantity. The majority of our combinable crops look well, except for any that were drilled into poor seedbeds. The spring crops sown in April have struggled; the
James Cossins has had a mixed month, with personal loss and the continuing TB testing saga – but silaging is underway, finally
ground was probably too wet and cold at the time and now the soil has dried out too quickly. Another issue we have found in one or two fields is black-grass, a nasty weed which can impact seriously on crop yields. We are convinced that it must have come from contractors’ balers which had potentially not been properly cleaned when coming from other farms before baling our straw.
There are various ways of controlling black-grass by chemicals, cultivations or changing the type of crop grown, but they have varying degrees of success. We have learned that we must be more vigilant over machines coming onto the farm.
In other news ...
We are hosting Open Farm Sunday on 11th June – the last time was five years ago, and we had more than 2,000 people attending! We hope all vistors
will have an enjoyable day out on the farm – in advance the whole Cossins family would like to thank all the local farmers and farm staff who are giving up their Sunday to support both us
and our industry. Finally, after a very tense football season, it is great that AFC Bournemouth are still in the Premiership. We now look forward to next season!
It’s a tough life for a horse on The Glanvilles Stud
All images: Courtenay Hitchcock
The joy was four ‘foaled’ at The Glanvilles Stud in May, and Lucy Procter explains the fascinating feet corrections (plus Honeysuckle is pregnant!)
The photos on my phone are revealing – muddy gateways and rain-soaked horses in early May but dry fields and sun-soaked horses by the end of the month. What a difference a few weeks
make! During the first week of May we were contemplating bringing the youngstock – that had been living in a barn all winter and only turned out in mid-April – back inside as the
rain was so constant and the ground so saturated. It stopped raining eventually though, we moved all the stock onto new grazing, and we have now managed to repair most of the damage caused by numerous hooves on that un-seasonally saturated ground.
Giselle’s warmblood
filly foal, 35 minutes old, trying to work out how to get her very long legs to stand.
May has been a busy month at TGS, with four foals born, six mares visiting stallions in six days, three AI covers, two foals requiring foot extensions, five foal microchips, daily scanning, and an entire yard of horses that are still stabled overnight. As the weather slowly warmed up, the four mares who were all due at the end of May started to foal early. The first, a resident showjumper, producing a leggy, black colt foal in the first week. A few days later another warmblood and a visiting thoroughbred decided to foal
CSH Dior, long-eared, long-legged, warmblood filly out of Giselle three weeks after her first attempt at standing photo opposite.
simultaneously. It was one of those evenings when I was relieved to have three of us in the barn to help proceedings. They were swiftly followed by the last of our own mares, Molasses, who gave us a lovely tall filly overnight on 14th May. Just two more mares to foal and then we’ll be done for the season – and back to enjoying something like a more normal sleep pattern. However, three of these four foals were born with slack hind pasterns, which results in them rocking back onto their heels with their toes pointing skywards. This type of problem is often not disastrous, though; with expert vet and farrier attention and carefully restricted turnout, the condition usually improves to the point that later in the summer we will be looking at a bunch of foals trying to remember which ones had to have early intervention. Two of the foals have been helped to strengthen and straighten with lateral extensions glued to their feet to hold the foot in the correct position as they put weight on it. I will never cease to be astonished by the immediate transformation effected by these little shoes, but they cannot be left on more than a few weeks as, just like a human child, a foal’s foot grows
Cosmic
Diamond’s Brave Mansonnien
filly Cress, with Sambac following – lots of identikit bay foals this year and once they’re weaned it can be tricky to identify them without mothers unless we get to know them well. They are microchipped in their first month as a failsafe!
and changes shape very quickly. The third foal’s hoof problems were less dramatic and, after two weeks of restricted turnout, the farrier rebalanced her hoof with careful trimming and the foal is now standing with her hind feet square on the ground.
Recent weeks have seen some pleasing results. Having previously raced over hurdles, after some bad luck and two seconds, the 7yo TGS-bred Triple Trade rounded off his first season chasing with two wins on the bounce for trainer Joe Tizzard. His younger sibling, the
6yo, TGS-bred Nine Graces – in training in Ireland with Barry Connell – followed up her first win in February with another nice win over hurdles in April. The 4yo Tique, whom we had foaled for owner Heather Royale also made May a winning month, crossing the finishing line in first place for the first time, in a National Hunt Flat race for trainer Seamus Mullins.
Although all these horses are in the ownership of others, we follow all the graduates of The Glanvilles Stud, and we are delighted when they win. But the month was again dominated by the recently retired and greatest of all The Glanvilles Stud graduates, Honeysuckle. Not only was Doug up at The Thoroughbred Breeders Association Awards to collect Honeysuckle’s fourth Leading Hurdler Mare trophy, but social media was alive with news of her confirmation of being in foal to the Irish stallion, Walk In The Park. Despite having optimistically booked a hotel room for us both to stay in Doncaster, I was left watching the foaling cameras overnight rather than living it up at the awards evening – and next morning it was me driving a mare to stud. Well, someone has to hold the fort back home!
Lady Stanhow’s strong (and curious), month old, Jack Hobbs filly.
More than 40,000 animals were helped by the sanctuary created ‘temporarily’ by the Duchess of Hamilton near Shaftesbury, says Ferne Rescue Centre
In 1939, Nina Douglas-Hamilton, Duchess of Hamilton, realised there was a huge need to help animals affected by the war. A well-known early animal rights activist, she had co-founded The Animal Defence and AntiVivisection Society (ADAVS) in 1903. When she heard that people were euthanising their pets if they were unable to find them a safe home out of the city, the Duchess rushed down from Scotland and put out an announcement on BBC radio asking for suitable homes for displaced animals. The story goes that when she returned home that evening, the Duchess was met with a queue of owners, with dogs, cats and even a parrot, looking to save their beloved pets from slaughter or starvation. Many volunteers did indeed come forward to offer homes to displaced pets, but the offers were very swiftly outnumbered by the number of animals in need. The Duchess didn’t hesitate. She opened the house and grounds of the family’s
Ferne Estate near Shaftesbury to accommodate as many animals as possible.
The best of intentions During the war years, with the assistance of a team of dedicated staff and local volunteers, the Duchess
provided safety and sanctuary to more than 6,000 pets. Inevitably, at the end of the war many owners failed to return to collect their pets. Ferne’s legacy of rescuing and rehoming animals-in-need had begun. However, the Duchess’s wellintentioned restrictions were so stringent that the house became unsaleable. It feel into disrepair and was demolished in 1965. In the early 1990s the estate was bought by Lord Rothermere and in 2001, the present Ferne House, designed by Quinlan Terry, was built. But the animals sanctuary remains, just as the Duchess intended, near Chard in Somerset, in the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Ferne sanctuary has cared for approximately 40,000 animals in its more than 80-year
history, and in keeping with the Duchess’s aims, animal welfare continues at the heart of everything that Ferne does. Any animal passing through its gates is assured of love and compassion throughout the rest of its life. You can see cat feeding time in 1965 in footage from British Pathé above, and in the British Film Institute archive there is an eight minute TV documentary about Ferne Sanctuary, filmed in 1977, not long after the move to Chard (watch it here). Ferne rehomes dogs, cats, horses and ponies and also currently provides a home – for life – for 300 farm and domestic animals. The centre is open to visitors, and provides a fascinating glimpse into a working sanctuary, with all proceeds going towards the care of the animals who need the sanctuary’s support. There is also an on-site café –appropriately named Nina’s in honour of the Duchess – which serves locally-sourced produce and fantastic home-baked goods. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a catch-up with friends, or simply for a quiet coffee after a visit at the sanctuary.
• To find out more about rehoming an animal, visiting the sanctuary or other ways you can support Ferne and its work please go to ferneanimalsanctuary.org/
Beautiful Amber is Ferne’s longest resident, having arrived in November 2021. All the dogs she arrived with have long since found homes, leaving Amber waiting in kennels, watching others come and go. She is simply a joy to be around, adoring the company of people; she’s a playful girl who loves her cuddly toys. A thoroughly gentle soul, Amber is desperate for the right person to make her feel safe at home.
Amber loves cuddling up on a sofa and just sitting with people. She’s a keen sunbather, finding any sun square on a warm day, and she really loves her food! Specific needs: Amber is selective with other dogs and needs to be the only pet in the home. She should have a secure garden, ideally in a quiet location. Amber cannot be let off lead in public, and she must wear her muzzle on walks. Offlead time would be fine at a
safe dog exercising facility. Being in kennels for a long time can cause chronic stress, and this in turn can cause illness. Amber is now on lifelong medication for an underactive thyroid, and she is also under medication for hip dysplasia. As a middle-aged girl, Amber desperately needs a second chance at happiness. But with the right owner, who has the right location, she will be a wonderful pet and has so much potential to be someone’s new best friend. Do you have space in your heart (and on your sofa) to give this beautiful sweet girl the home she so deserves? Read more about Amber here
It was a rough night...
Sparrowball Sarah Mcnulty
Marsh Fritillary butterfly on cow parsley
Tracy Whincup
A long tailed tit with quite the mouthfulJohn Bishop
We welcome photography submissions from readers - the only rule is that they must have been taken locally in the last month. Our cover shot is usually selected from our submissions pile. If you’d like to join in, please share it in The BV community Facebook Group or simply email it to us on photos@bvmagazine.co.uk
Wendy Morley
Famous the world over as the Father of Chemistry, Robert Boyle is also Stalbridge’s most famous former resident. The man who gave his name to Boyle’s Law – after spotting that the volume of gas varies inversely to its pressure – carried out his early experiments in Stalbridge almost 400 years ago. He was also the village’s Lord of the Manor for almost half-a-century.
The Boyle connection with Stalbridge began through Robert’s father, Richard.
As a young man, Richard Boyle left his job as a lawyer’s clerk in London to try his luck in Ireland. After arriving in Dublin with £27, he married heiress Joan Apsley. When she died in childbirth in 1599, he married Catherine Fenton, daughter of the Secretary of State for Ireland. Richard was soon one of Ireland’s richest men, becoming Earl of Cork in 1620 and Lord Treasurer in 1631.
Robert, born at Lismore Castle in 1627, was the 14th of Richard and Catherine’s 15 children.
Believing his offspring should not be indulged, the Earl farmed Robert out to a country nurse to sample a ‘coarse but cleanly diet and the usual passions of the air’. By the time the five-year old Robert returned to Lismore, his mother had died. He was taught reading, writing, Latin and French before being despatched to Eton.
In 1636, the Earl bought the run-down Stalbridge Manor House, probably as a potential retreat from escalating troubles in Ireland, and promptly began an ambitious restoration programme. Robert and his elder brother Francis were
withdrawn from Eton and moved to Stalbridge, where Robert lodged with Parson Douch in order to continue his education and avoid the serious ‘temptations of idleness’. His lessons included music – only to be told by his teacher that he had a ‘bad voice’. He also wrote poetry in English, French and Latin but was clearly not impressed with his own efforts, as he marked his 21st birthday by burning the lot. When plans to support King Charles I in a Scottish expedition in 1639 fell through, Robert’s father finally gave him the key to ‘all his garden and orchards’ at Stalbridge. Robert believed the Earl was encouraging him to be temperate by ‘freely giving
me the opportunity to be otherwise’.
The Earl need not have worried.
Robert had little interest in wining and dining, preferring to study or walk for hours in the fields, where he was able to ‘think at random’ and indulge his imagination.
At their father’s insistence, Robert and the newlywed Francis were sent on a European tour. By the time they returned in 1644, the Earl had died, Robert had succeeded him as Lord of the Manor, Stalbridge House had fallen into disrepair again and North Dorset was engulfed by the Civil War.
On 8 October 1644, the ill-fated Charles I and his troops spent the night at Stalbridge House on their way from Sherborne to Blandford, breaking their journey again at Sturminster Newton, where the King dined in Mr Reeve’s field.
Robert was probably not at home to welcome the King, preferring to spend his first months back in England with his favourite sister, Katherine, Lady Ranelagh, in London.
After a visit to Stalbridge in 1646, Robert commented, with ironic humour, that the area was ‘infected with three epidemical diseases’ –the plague, ‘which now begins to revive again at Bristol and Yeovil…’, ‘fits of the committee’ and ‘consumption of the purse’.
‘The committee’ is thought to refer to Parliament’s Standing Committee, set up that same year to sequester the estates of royalist sympathisers until fines were paid.
Despite the turmoil, Robert nurtured plans for a chemistry lab at Stalbridge and wrote in the same year to Lady Ranelagh of his enforced idleness due to the non-arrival of the wagon bringing his ‘Vulcanian implements’.
When his ‘great earthen furnace’ finally turned up, it was broken into pieces, and Robert complained to Katherine that ‘all the fine experiments, and castles in the air that I had built upon its safe arrival, have felt the fate of their foundation’.
He added: ‘I see I am not designed to the finding of the philosopher’s stone. I have been so unlucky in my first attempts in chemistry.’
However, his pessimism was premature. Just two years later he wrote to his sister: ‘Vulcan has so transformed and bewitched me to make me fancy my laboratory as a kind of Elysium.’
During his stays in London and regular visits to Oxford, Robert met most of the great minds of his era, describing them as the ‘Invisible College’. His Oxford friends he called a ’knot of ingenious and free thinkers’.
He moved to Oxford in 1655 and five years later was one of the founders of the illustrious Royal
Society. Boyle was a prolific writer on a vast range of subjects, including Dorset Blue Vinny. Commenting that foreigners were despised for eating insects, he pointed out that Dorset’s blueveined cheese was ‘crawling with insects bred out of putrefaction’, which were duly eaten alive. In the modern world, alas, the custom of maturing Blue Vinny in a dung heap has failed to cut the mustard with the food safety people. They’re no fun!
Boyle also knew people, including ‘some fair ladies’, who drank their own and boys’ urine to prevent scurvy and gout.
Despite being tall and slim, Robert was ‘pale and emaciated’, and suffered health problems throughout his adult life. Physically weak, he had poor eyesight and such a terrible memory that he was ‘often tempted to abandon study in despair’. He made up for these challenges with a ‘flow of wit’ described as ‘so copious and lively’ that he was the equal of ‘the most celebrated geniuses of the age’. Some of these geniuses were his friends – such as fellow scientist Sir Isaac Newton, East Knoyle-born architect Sir Christopher Wren, antiquary John Aubrey and diarists Samuel Pepys and John Evelyn. Robert died in December 1691, just a few days after his beloved sister, Katherine.
Evelyn records his death and funeral in his diary entries for 1st and 6th January 1692, describing him as ‘that pious admirable Christian, excellent philosopher, and my worthy friend, Mr Boyle, aged about 65 – a great loss to all that knew him, and to the public’.
Stalbridge House, which stood far behind the long stone wall we know today, was dismantled in 1822 and the materials sold by auction.
This month, Barry Cuff has selected cards published by J R Green, Evershot. Green is not listed in either the 1895 or 1923 Kelly’s Directories. There was a Green who had a photographic studio in Abbotsbury around 1880, producing cartes de visite – a format of small photograph card which was used as a forerunner of social media, commonly traded among friends and visitors.
This postcard of the Abbotsbury Swans was posted to Lambeth in 1910
The above image was posted to Yeovil in 1906. On the card are Lady Ilchester, Lady Powis, Lady Guiness, Lady Crewe, HRH [Princess] of Wales (Princess Maud of Wales) and Sir Donald Wallace. Part of the message on this card reads ‘thought you would like this spiffing card. It is good of Lady Ilchester but HRH is too much like a dragon to please me’.
The cottages on the near-left of these pictures, which were taken more than 100 years apart, were the scene of a major fire drama in 1942, as present residents Valerie and Brian Kelly were able to tell me. At the time, the building now known as Forge House included a garage complete with a handoperated Shell petrol pump and
an ironmonger’s and hardware store adjoining.
The whole place was run by the Mitchell family, including Len and Horace.
‘The shop stocked household goods, car bits, carbide batteries and shotgun cartridges, among other things,’ Valerie told me.
‘I have talked to elderly people
who remember sitting on the wall opposite as people ran in and out with shotgun cartridges and other stock, all of which was put out in the road.’ The building was rebuilt with tiles replacing the thatched roof, but the original garage doors can still be seen today. The business closed in the 1970s and Valerie and Brian
arrived in 1983. They have found ample evidence of the fire, including charred timbers in the roof and joists which told another story. ‘Because it was during the war, there were shortages and they ran out of timber,’ said Brian who, handily, is a roofer by trade. ‘The joists got thinner and thinner and more and more stretched out.’
‘Brian had to put timbers in to jack the roof up,’ Valerie added. The couple also found some stored framed building paper that would have been used to block off the windows during the wartime blackouts.
Another relic of the building’s
days as a garage is an AA sign, which tells us – with remarkable precision – the distances from Hazelbury Bryan to Sturminster Newton (four-and-a-quarter miles), Piddletrentide (sixand-a-half miles) and London (115-and-a-quarter miles). The London distance makes me wonder if the sign-maker was having a laugh.
The top line of a second sign is missing but the surviving part reads: ‘…have been sworn in to apprehend any persons seen cudgeling, fighting or boxing.’ Cudgeling was obviously a problem at Hazelbury in those distant days.
The aerial picture above was
taken in 1967 and shows the garage and shop (centre) complete with petrol pumps with Wonston Farm and saw mills, run by William Hutchings and Sons, to the right. Most of the farm and saw mill buildings have now gone, with houses built on part of the site.
The Mitchells
A glance at the old Kelly’s Directories reveals just how central the Mitchell family was to life in Hazelbury. For Wonston, the 1931 directory lists thatcher Charles Mitchell, decorators, plumbers and motor engineers Joseph J Mitchell & Sons and Miss Laura L Mitchell, who ran the drapery store and post office and had the telephone number Hazelbury Bryan 1.
In the wider village, William J Mitchell Sr was clerk to the parish council and collector of taxes, William Mitchell Jr was a plumber, hot and cold water engineer and decorator, while Horace Mitchell is merely listed as a resident at The Bungalow. One member of the Mitchell family even took the early 20th century picture opposite of the Wonston shop, with dog, bicycle and local resident outside.
This month, North Dorset CPRE’s Derek Gardiner looks at our rivers, which have become the latest rural planning application hurdle
“Getting a complete overview of the health of our rivers and the pollution affecting them is hampered by outdated, underfunded and inadequate monitoring regimes. It is clear, however, that rivers in England are in a mess. A ‘chemical cocktail’ of sewage, agricultural waste, and plastic is polluting the waters of many of the country’s rivers”. This was the opinion of the House of Commons Environmental Audit Committee in its report published in January 2022.
The main sources of pollution outlined in the Committee’s report are agricultural pollution (affecting 40 per cent of water bodies), sewage and wastewater (36 per cent) and run-off from towns, cities and transport, referred to as urban diffuse pollution (18 per cent).
According to Sir James Bevan, chief executive of the Environment Agency, the quality of water in English rivers is “flatlining”, with the farming and water treatment sectors being the main polluters. One of the major concerns is the excessive concentration of nutrients which causes algal blooms. These consume oxygen from the water, in the process undermining the ecosystems in rivers and the surrounding habitats. Nitrogen and phosphorous are naturally present in the environment – in low quantities, they are necessary nutrients. However, the high levels of nitrates found in sewage, agricultural run-off, nitrogenbased fertilisers and manure pose a problem requiring active management to resolve.
Since the UK left the EU, the Water Framework Directive (WFD), an important mechanism for assessing and managing the
water environment, has been revoked. It has been replaced by similar legislation so that the UK continues to fulfil its reporting requirements under the new legislation.
Following a landmark European Court ruling in 2018 (the Dutch Nitrogen Case, commonly known as Dutch-N), the government agency Natural England issued advice directing councils not to approve developments that would add to the nutrient pollution in watercourses in protected habitats, where the site in question is already judged to
be in an “unfavourable condition”. In other words, the level of phosphorus and nitrogen in the watercourses should not increase (“nutrient neutrality”) as a result of such developments being built. Figures provided by the Chief Planner, as of March 2022, showed that 74 local planning authorities have received nutrient neutrality advice from Natural England across 27 catchments, amounting to 14 per cent of England’s land area. In these areas, the granting of planning permission has been delayed until appropriate mitigation can be secured.
According to the Home Builders
Algal blooms consume oxygen from the water, undermining the river ecosystems and habitat
A ‘chemical cocktail’ of sewage, agricultural waste, and plastic
Federation (HBF), this has led to proposals for an estimated 100,000 homes being put on hold. HBF companies have had to spend anything between £5,000 and £25,000 in order to procure works privately to mitigate potential nutrient pollution from new housing development.
On 16th March 2022, Natural England notified Dorset Council of its updated advice for development proposals that have the potential to affect water quality, resulting in adverse nutrient impacts on internationally-protected habitat sites. This advice applied to the catchments of five habitat sites which together cover a large part of the Dorset Council area. The advice was that Dorset Council should “carefully consider the nutrients impacts of any new plans and projects (including new development proposals) on habitats sites and whether those impacts may have an adverse effect on the integrity of a habitats site that requires mitigation, including through nutrient neutrality”.
The catchment areas within Dorset that this relates to are:
• Poole Harbour nitrogen and phosphorus
• Somerset Levels and Moors phosphorus nutrient deposition
• River Avon phosphorus nutrient deposition
• Chesil and The Fleet nitrogen and phosphorus nutrient deposition
• River Axe phosphorus nutrient deposition
The problem of nutrient pollution is particularly pronounced in Poole Harbour.
In a letter from Cllr Spencer Flower, Leader of Council Dorset Council, to The Rt Hon Michael Gove MP, Cllr Flower wrote “An upgrade of phosphorus removal at all wastewater treatment works over 250 population equivalent within the catchment, as originally suggested through the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill (LURB), would easily provide the reduction needed to achieve the target limit for phosphorus input to the harbour. This would therefore remove the need for phosphorus neutrality, enabling development to continue”.
The current draft of the LURB proposes that upgrades to wastewater treatment works serving 2,000 or more population equivalent should be the target.
Cllr Flower has requested that this be reduced to 1,000 population equivalents. “This would help in both unlocking significant amounts of housing development and delivering against other environmental priorities. These significant benefits can be realised with a targeted and proportionate approach. This would aid in reducing phosphorus deposition to a level that enables favourable status to be achieved, help meet other government targets on the environment, and the delivery of new homes to restart.”
rivers to good Ecological status is a complex challenge requiring cross-sector collaboration. The Environment Agency says: “There are multiple influences on river water quality in England. To make significant improvements will require investment from the water and farming industries and individual behaviour changes. We must continue to tackle a legacy of Victorian drainage systems, historic lack of capital investment in agriculture, sewerage and road infrastructure, and insufficient maintenance of that infrastructure … The changing climate and growing population make targets harder to reach.”
The high levels of nitrates found in sewage and agricultural runoff require active management
Once she was afraid of them – but now, flower farmer Charlotte Tombs couldn’t be without her Midsummer Day sowing of biennials
One of Charlotte’s biennial posies, with sweet Williams and sweet rocket.
Images: Charlotte Tombs
Biennials. I’ll admit I rather shied away from them, mostly because I didn’t really know what they were, if I’m totally honest. The definition of a biennial is ‘any herbaceous flowering plant that completes its life cycle in two growing seasons. During the first growing season, biennials produce roots, stems, and leaves. During the second growing season, they produce flowers, fruits, and seeds, and then they die’.
Once I’d actually got my head round them, I took the plunge, and now I wouldn’t be without them. Biennials are brilliant! They flower before any of the annuals, so they fill the gap of flowers once the tulips are over.
I sow the seeds on Midsummer Day – if you are kind enough to read my column regularly you will know I am weirdly attached to working around significant dates. Sweet peas are always sown on New Year’s Day and Valentine’s, for instance.
First on my list is the wallflower – please don’t overlook them, they will flower their heads off for you! A simple jam-jar bunch on the kitchen table will lighten your mood on a gloomy March day and the scent of them is amazing, too. Wallflowers have come a long way and some of the newer varieties are well worth growing. Look for the sugar rush series, fire king and also the sunset series; there are some gorgeous colours.
My second choice is honesty (Lunaria annua) –prized for its seed heads, I resist the temptation of picking to wait instead for the glorious papery silver discs that then adorn my Christmas wreaths (or yours if you come to one of my workshops).
Then there is sweet rocket (Hesperis matronalis) –these come in white and purple and will self-seed freely if you are lucky. They do well in dappled shade and smell delicious to boot!
Fourth on my must-grow biennials list are sweet Williams (Dianthus barbatus). So many to choose from, but some of my favourites are Sooty, superbus, albus, and auricula eyed mixed. Again these smell delicious.
Lastly let’s not forget the magnificent foxglove, those high-rise towers of nectar for the bees, with spots to guide the bee in like runways. Who doesn’t love a furry bumblee bottom sticking out of a gently-buzzing foxglove?
What’s so brilliant about biennials is their simplicity. Sow the seeds in the summer, pot them on, then just leave them to grow into strong plants. Plant them out in late September or early October where they can establish themselves while the soil is still warm – come the following spring you are rewarded by the most beautiful flowers. They just get on and do their own thing over the winter. Mother Nature is amazing.
sweet rocket is a favourite, smelling delicious and often self-seeding across the garden
I urge you to give a few biennials a try this year. As always if you have any flower questions I’m more than happy to help. You can find me as @northcombeflowers on Instagram or facebook – and do look out for workshops that I run throughout the year. PS – did you see that the coronation flowers were supplied by members of Flowers From the Farm? Some were grown here in Dorset, by my lovely friend Katie at Dorset Flower Co.
In Barry Cuff’s report from May, early sowings of some veg failed, while broad beans, cabbages and potatoes flourished – rain is eagerly awaited.
May is one of the busiest months on our allotment. The weather was generally kind with no frosts. About two inches of rain fell in the first week and then dry weather set in. There were some quite cold nights, with the wind during the day coming from a northerly direction, but there was plenty of sun.
As it was the vegetables high on the agenda this month, I’ve listed all that we did by vegetable!
Beetroot
Our two early sowings failed to produce any seedlings. More were sown on 23rd.
Broad beans
All are in full flower with no sign of blackfly. To hasten pod set, the tops were pinched out.
Brussel sprouts
We planted these out from plug trays on 15th.
Cabbages
Both red and white were planted out in April and are doing well –we fed with liquid seaweed.
Carrot
As with the beetroot, the two early sowings failed and more were sown on 23rd (maybe the soil was too cold?).
Cauliflower
On 8th and 15th we sowed Fargo, Cheesy, Snow Prince and Cendis in plug trays. These should give a supply of curds from September to January.
Celery and celeriac
The seeds sown in April have now produced some healthy seedlings ready to plant out in June.
Courgettes and squashes
These were all sown individually into small pots on the 1st and are now ready to plant out.
Early purple sprouting broccoli
Sown in plug trays on the 8th.
French beans
These were doing well, planted out from pots on 26th.
Leeks
The two large pots sown in April are now looking well despite a surprise attack from either a bird or a Squirrel!
Lettuce
We are already picking our first sown, and continue making new sowings each month.
Mangetout peas
Sown on the 15th and now emerging well.
Onions and spring onions
Sown in small plugs in March, these were all planted out on 2nd, with one to three seedlings per station.
Our first spring onions were pulled on 21st!
Parsnips
With very little sign of any seedlings, more were sown
(parsnips can take up to 28 days to germinate so it’s possible I should be more patient ...).
Peas
Two lines were sown in April, and another two in May. There’s been some weevil attack but generally looking good. They’re well protected from pigeons this year!
Potatoes
So far they’re looking exceptionally well (see image above). Have already needed to water the earlies (Maris Bard).
Radish
Successional sowings are already providing us with tasty roots for our salads.
Runner beans
Canes erected and we planted out from pots on 20th.
Sweetcorn
We planted out 30 plants on 26th of the month, with more to be planted out later. Now all we desperately need is some good warm rain!
As summer arrives, the job list is a constant round of tending and tweaking and weeding, says gardener Pete Harcom
At last – we actually have some warmer weather. Thanks to the longer days and some real sunshine, the garden is finally actively growing now … but of course, so are the weeds!
Jobs for this month:
Weeding
• Hoe and hand-pick annual weeds when you see them, before they get out of hand.
• Keep deadheading (particularly roses) –removing faded blooms will help continue their display.
Planting and cutting back
• Plant out summer bedding, including potting up hanging baskets.
• Trim back trailing /spreading plants (eg Aubretia), as this will encourage fresh growth.
• Pinch out the tips of fuchsias to encourage bushy growth and more flowers.
• If planting out newly purchased clematis plants, put a few handfuls of grit in the bottom of the hole. This will help with drainage and reduce waterlogging.
• Tie up the stems of sweet peas – the plants are growing fast and a strong gust of wind or heavy downpour can quickly damage these plants. Secure to a support every 10cm with garden twine. Once they start, pick the flowers often to encourage more blooms.
Cuttings
• Now is the perfect time to take softwood cuttings of many shrubs, including lavender, fuchsia, forsythia
Don’t forget to water your pots – light rain showers do not necessarily reach potted plants properly
and philadelphus.
• Collect healthy shoots from the tips of plants and make 5-10cm long cuttings – slice through the stem below a pair of leaves and remove the lower set of leaves. Simply push the cuttings into a small pot filled with gritty cutting compost and place in a shady part of the greenhouse or a windowsill propagator until rooted.
• In the greenhouse, use blinds, shade cloth or apply shade paint on the external side of greenhouse glass to prevent overheating through the summer months. Remember to always open vents and doors on warm days (automatic window openers are a real bonus this time of year).
• Start sowing perennials and biennials such as wallflowers,
pansies, daisies, bellis perennis and Sweet Williams between May and July, for flowering next spring and summer. Sow in trays, cover with vermiculite and place in an unheated propagator. Plant into their flowering positions in autumn.
• Keep an eye on your pots – light rain showers do not necessarily reach potted plants properly.
• Start to feed fuchsias and petunias in hanging baskets – and any other flowering pot plants – once you notice flower buds forming. Feed with fertiliser once a week to boost the flowering and continue feeding until the plants run out of steam in early autumn. Don’t worry about purchasing special products – simply use a high potash liquid tomato feed.
The Thorngrove team are loving the seasonal rush of colour, and they’re ready to help you make the most of your garden says Kelsi-Dean Buck
Now I might jinx it just typing this but the last few weeks have brought some stunning garden weather – it’s been such a joy to wander the courtyard here at Thorngrove in Gillingham. We’ve made a few changes to our displays and the diverse selection of vibrant plants have frequently been stopping me in my tracks. It felt like spring took a little while to arrive this year but May’s been a beautiful month, and now as we move into June, we can finally look ahead to the official arrival of summer!
Our plant of the month for June is the Foxglove – also known as digitalis, a beautiful plant famous for their bell-shaped flowers. Picking yours up from us? Here’s a few care tips!
Digitalis prefers partial shade to full sun. Ideally, it should
receive four to six hours of direct sunlight each day. Choose well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, and keep the soil consistently moist – but not waterlogged. The tall varieties of digitalis may require staking or support to prevent them from bending or toppling over in strong winds. Do keep an eye out for common garden pests such as aphids, slugs, and snails. If you notice any infestations, treat them promptly using appropriate organic or chemical methods
As I write this, it’s National Children’s Gardening Week and we’re running a special competition at Thorngrove to help your little ones get creative in the home and garden (visit our social media for more details),
but even if the week is up by the time you read this, it’s still a brilliant time of year to get them interested in gardening!
Try making a butterfly-attracting garden – teach children about pollinators by creating a garden specifically designed to attract butterflies. Plant nectar-rich flowers like lavender, marigolds, and buddleia.
Or how about an upcycled container garden? Encourage children to repurpose items like old buckets, cans, or wooden crates to create unique container gardens.
Perhaps a pizza garden will capture their attention: help them design and plant a pizzathemed garden by choosing various Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme, along with some tomatoes and peppers. You could also try creating bug hotels, pinecone bird feeders, hedgehog huts and more!
We have plenty of plants and garden essentials at Thorngrove (including bird feed!) to help you with these kinds of projects. Whatever you’re doing this month, we hope you get to enjoy the outdoors, and don’t forget the roses will be blooming!
We look forward to seeing you in the garden centre and café soon.
1855 not just a retail experience – it’s also hosting three SturLitFest events this month. On the 5th June Felice Hardy with her book about her grandparents escape from the Nazis. Two days later on the 7th June Liz Copas and Nick Poole present their work on The Lost Orchards of Dorset, accompanied by cider from Orchard 101. And the following day (8th June) Libby Page will be talking about her book The Vintage Shop of Second Chances before a fashion show of pre-loved items from The Boutique. The stage is set ready!
The Boutique is a great shop for anyone who enjoys good quality clothes and accessories – at knock down prices, naturally –and it’s always worth keeping a regular eye on. And for the gentlement there is, of course, Dapper Chaps over at
The Emporium with a similarly ever-changing range of mens clothing for all occasions. The Emporium itself is crammed full of books, music, collectables, and especially homewares and children’s toys. Perfect for those who like to make their money go a little further, or who simply prefer to recycle.
The Emporium also houses Stur’s Community Fridge; free food! We thrive on “waste not want not”. The Furniture Store just up the road is great to fill a gap or for a new upcycling project. We welcome anyone who would like to volunteer to help; we are a lively, friendly group, and there’s never any pressure. Just give as
little or as much time as you feel able.
What’s on this month?
June opens with a burst of activities on the very first weekend – the Car and Bike Enthusiasts are back on The Rec on Saturday 3rd June, 9am to 12 noon – it’s afree event, and enjoys a wide and eclectic vehicle mix in attendance!
The Rotary Club are holding their annual Garden Sale in the Railway Gardens the same morning, and the first of ten weekly Car Boot Sales for charity is taking place on The Rec on Sunday morning.
The fourth Sturminster Newton Literary Festival is taking place
from 5th to 10th June and there are brochures throughout the town plus tickets on sale in 1855.
Sturbiz Chamber
The monthly SturBiz Business Breakfast will be held in The Coffee Bar at The Exchange 8 to 9am – 9.00 on Tuesday 6th June. It is open to anyone who wants to network with others working in the town, whether that’s voluntary or businesses. The aim is to share information about what is happening in the town and to support each other. Coffee/tea and snacks are available at the Bar or contact Jacqui (SturBiz18@gmail.com) ASAP if you want to order a
• 3rd to 5th June
The first weekend in June sees:
• The Exchange Beer and Ale Festival
• The Garden Sale (Railway Gardens)
• The Car and Bike Enthusiasts Meet is back in The Rec (at the end of Ricketts Lane)
• Free parking in town on Saturday 3rd June!
• 3rd to 10th June
Sturminster Newton Literary Festival
The first week in June is the centre of the third annual SturLitFest, with a range of events around the town including fascinating talks by authors, guided literary walks, writers workshops, a book fair, and a chance to learn more about the town’s remarkable stained glass windows. See the website sturlitfest.com for full event and booking details, or pick up a brochure locally – tickets are bookable online or on the door for most events, subject to availability
• Sundays
Charity-run car boot sale on the Rec each Sunday through the summer.
Want to reply? Read something you feel needs commenting on? Our posTBag is open! Please send emails to letters@theblackmorevale.co.uk.
When writing, please include your full name and address; we will not print this, but do require it.
Thank you
I would like to put in your magazine a big heartfelt thankyou. My brother collapsed in Gillingham surgery Monday 22nd. Help was there immediately, but although they worked on him he couldn’t be bought back. As a family we would like to thank everyone who helped him, it shows what great service we have in Dorset.
Thankyou
Melvie
Martin & familyRage against the mow
I’m writing with a heavy heart and a dollop of shock about the premature trimming of our grass verges surrounding Sturminster Newton. Right during our cherished “No Mow May”. It seems the council, bless them, might’ve misplaced their calendars! Our lovely local wildlife relies on this period, and the council’s actions seem to sidestep the importance of this initiative. It’s like putting a full stop in the middle of a sentence, it just doesn’t make sense! We need to ponder the cost of such haste on nature’s precious cycle. We’re expecting a bit of clarity here, as well as an assurance that our “No Mow May” will be left undisturbed in future. I’m sure many of us would be pleased to see our council showing more regard for these matters.
Sarah G, Sturminster NewtonI wish to voice my anger at what I presume are the actions of our council. It’s been so disheartening to witness the early cutting of our grass verges around the Sturminster Newton’s perimeter – sad at any time of year on unnecessary road stretches, but utterly unwarranted during “No Mow May”. Worse was to come however.
Every morning I drive through the village of Hammoon. Every day in recent weeks I have gloried in the stunning shoulder-high swathes of cow parsley which have adorned the lane verges. They have neither impeded my vision, nor can I conceive that the lush thick verges of tall straight-growing plants have caused any other road user any safety issues. And yet these too have been subject to a ground-level mow in the last few days. I am horrified and enraged at this senselessness. The month of May is a critical period in our UK ecology - we choose it for no mowing for a reason. Wildflowers and grasses are in full bloom, providing
vital habitats and food sources for insects, spiders, snails, small mammals and birds. By allowing the verges to grow, we ensure the survival of our local flora and fauna, supporting pollinators essential for our ecosystem’s health.
I implore the council to reconsider their actions and respect our commitment to preserving and enhancing local biodiversity.
Alan Watts, by emailI am writing in support of Andrew Livingston’s thought-provoking piece on the delicate balance of biodiversity in the UK’s struggling ecosystems (The law of unintended consequences, May 23). The topic is a critical one, especially given the dire state of many of our native species and the implications of human actions on their survival.
Andrew’s focus on the issue of legal protections, such as for raptors, and the unintended consequences of the, was interesting. While it is essential to protect threatened species, we must indeed acknowledge the ripple effects such interventions may have on the entire food chain. A stronger focus on habitat construction than on specific-species protection to enhance biodiversity. It would lead to a more sustainable balance in our ecosystems without disadvantaging other species in the process .
The “law of unintended consequences” rings so true here. As we strive to protect and foster wildlife, we must remain vigilant to the complex dynamics of our ecosystems.
James Smith, SherborneIn response to the letter by M. Holderness of Charlton (The BV, May 23), I share his concerns about the widespread dismissal of climate activists’ efforts. The urgency and severity of the climate crisis demand far-reaching, revolutionary changes, and I appreciate that activists are working to convey this message.
It is true that climate activism is often met with antagonism, and its strategies can be seen as inconvenient or disruptive. However, the primary goal of such activism is to stir conversation and incite action, which, judging by the attention these movements have received, has been successful.
The fact that we’re now discussing these issues
Every month we receive pet pictures which are submitted for the Reader’s Photography pages. It’s rare for them to make the photography pages, but we always feel a little guilty – they’re good pets, they deserve their own recognition. Every month we’ll now pick our favourite. Would you like your pet to be featured? Just send to photos@bvmagazine. co.uk. Please be sure to include your pet’s name, age, and a couple of fun details about them.
more openly is evidence of the impact these protests have had. Scientific warnings about the catastrophic implications of climate change have been falling on deaf ears for decades. Far far too long. Consequently, the need for dramatic action to reverse the effects of climate change has become critical. It’s not about causing public disorder but about sounding the alarm to save our planet! I hope that more people will understand the desperate circumstances that have led to these protests and see them not as a nuisance but as a necessary wake-up call. The “revolution” Holderness speaks of should be seen not as an act of rebellion, but as an urgent call to action to ensure a sustainable future for our planet.
Ellie Holding, SherborneIn response to Susan N’s letter from Blandford (The BV, May 23), I wholeheartedly concur with her perspective. As we advance further into the digital age, it is imperative for businesses, irrespective of their establishment date, to adapt and evolve with the changing times.
It is understandable that some long-standing businesses might find the transition to digital platforms challenging. However, the advantages of such a move significantly outweigh the potential discomfort of adapting to new tools and technologies. Susan aptly pointed out the valuable opportunities for audience engagement, brand awareness, and promotion provided by social media platforms.
There is ample help available in terms of training and resources for businesses seeking to improve their digital presence. The ability to harness digital platforms is no longer an optional extra but a crucial component of business survival in today’s highly competitive market.
It’s been here for a generation now. The time has come for all businesses, irrespective of their size or establishment date, to embrace the digital era fully. By doing so, they not only stay relevant and attractive to new customers but also ensure their own continued growth and success.
Ruby P (aged 62, and writing on my iPad!), by email
Your article on disposable barbecues (May 23) made alarming reading. Despite the horrific consequences, how is it that disposable barbecues remain readily available in the market? From instigating wildfires to contaminating the soil, endangering wildlife and simply causing sever burns, the threat these items pose is significant. While I am encouraged by the actions taken by Dorset Council, Litter Free Dorset, and responsible retailers such as Southern Co-op in raising awareness and removing disposable barbecues from their shelves, I believe more stringent measures are needed.
Why can’t
barbecues be banned? Is it not justifiable to consider an all-out prohibition? We must strive for long-term changes. Convenience should never supersede safety and environmental responsibility.
Anna B, by email
Crossword Simply click to complete on your tablet, computer or phone - or there’s a download option if you prefer pen and paper.
Jigsaw
Just click to complete! If you get stuck, there’s an icon at the top of the screen which reveals the completed picture for you to refresh your memory.
A local expert from Citizen’s Advice provides timely tips on consumer issues. This month:
Q:‘I’ve just had my bathroom re-tiled, but I’m not happy with the work. At first, things seemed to be going well, but then the tradesperson left to do another job and I had to chase them for updates. They did eventually come back and finish the job, but the work was pretty rough around the edges. They also left all the old tiles and plaster for me to dispose of, which I wasn’t expecting. I’ve now got the invoice, but I don’t think the price reflects the work done or the service I got. Can I challenge this?’
A:It’s always frustrating when you run into problems with home improvements. You mention that the job looked “rough round the edges” – if this is to a degree whereby you could consider the job unfinished or unsafe, you should be able to get the tiler to come back to fix it. You could also suggest to him/ her that moving the old tiles might be considered as part of finishing the job.
If the tiler considers the work complete, it’s worth knowing you’re protected by the Consumer Rights Act 2015, which says the tiler should have completed the work with ‘reasonable care and skill’. If they haven’t done this, they’ve broken the law.
The Act means you’re legally entitled to ask the tiler to fix the problem (if they provided the tiles as well as the service) or get money refunded (if they just provided the service and you bought the tiles).
They should fix the problem or refund you in a reasonable amount of time, without causing too much inconvenience.
As you’ve received the invoice for the work but not paid yet, now would be a good time to ask them to fix the issue or you could negotiate a lower price for the work. Let the tiler know you understand what you’re entitled to. Speak to them in person, or contact them in writing/over email – there are template letters on the Citizens Advice website. Either way, make sure you have a written copy of anything agreed. Before you contact them, it’s a good idea to take photographs to use as evidence of the problem. Make notes about what happened, including dates and times.
You should also gather any paperwork and receipts –was there any prior written agreement about who would dispose of the old tiles? Was the final cost in line with estimates or quotes given to you at the outset of the work? If not, there is advice on the Citizens Advice website about steps you can take.
If you’re struggling to come to an agreement with the tiler, there are other steps you can take to solve your problem, including using ‘alternative dispute resolution’, which is a way of solving disagreements without going to court. There are full details about how to do this on the Citizens Advice website.
Employ My Ability offers vocational training for young people with special educational needs and disabilities. Maddie Walters worked on her journalism with the aim of writing a column for us - Ed
It’s summer at last – I hope everyone is enjoying the warm and sunny days! For this month’s article I’ve been thinking about my favourite gardens to visit at this time of year and whether they are disability-friendly. I have also looked at volunteering information for those who might be interested.
There are lots of beautiful gardens that all, including disabled people, can enjoy in the summer. It’s really important for your physical and mental health to enjoy the beautiful nature all around you. The National Gardens Scheme (NGS), which give visitors unique access to over 3,500 private gardens, has a very good article about this, written by a neuroscientist.
Moors Valley is a fantastic place to visit, with many activities that young kids can enjoy enjoy like
cycling, fishing, and even seeing the Gruffalo. There are many accessible walks and paths and a really good visitor centre to help.
Kingston Lacy is another fantastic place to visit – the grounds of the house are stunning, I love the beautiful Japanese garden. The house is great to visit too. The Companion Card from the National Trust is accepted, so up to two carers can come with you for free.
Vistors can enjoy both the castle itself and the gardens. Though the upstairs exhibits aren’t accessible, there is a slide show on the ground floor to see them that way.
The Larmer Tree gardens are a wonderful place to visit in the
summertime – book your tickets via the visual calendar on the website. They are very accessible and have a wheelchair on site available to use.
You can get an access guide for National Trust and English Heritage sites. I also recommend you check the volunteer pages on the National Trust or English Heritage websites, to find out wha’s available. Options include working at the till, making bookings or giving a tour with knowledge about the history of English gardens. Another excellent place to look at for more volunteering options is the NGS site. Although NGS events are held in private gardens, there is a need for some specific help. And mark your calendar for Gardens & Health Week in May 2024!
This month Maddie is looking at local disability-friendly gardens to visit over the summer, and also at ways you might get involved
Thanks to a recent grant, AGE UK North, South & West Dorset is now actively seeking volunteers to join their befriending service in the Shaftesbury region. The Dorset Community Foundation’s Corton Hill Fund has given the charity a financial boost to help the project combat loneliness and seclusion within local communities. An array of support will be made available, including home visits from the Independent Living advisor, who will offer crucial guidance and refer individuals to services that encourage selfreliance and overall wellbeing. Recognising the significant toll that loneliness and seclusion can have on physical and mental health, the charity hopes the project wall pave the way for people to access the support they need.
Community Engagement Manager, Rachel Weiss, said: ‘We are hopeful that this project can support those in the Shaftesbury area who are experiencing loneliness and isolation. We can ensure that those who need support know where to go,
as well as supporting people with befriending and social opportunities. We are incredibly thankful to the Corton Hill Fund and Dorset Community Foundation for the opportunity.’ Presently, the charity has more than 100 befrienders spread across North, South, and West Dorset, but a mere three in the Shaftesbury area. The charity is now looking for more to support their efforts to tackle loneliness in communities: ‘We have lots of requests for befriending support,’ says Rachel. ‘But we are always looking for more volunteers who may have some spare time each
week to make a difference to the life of a local older person. It might be a simple chat over a cuppa, or a walk around the local park. These seemingly-small social opportunities can make all the difference.’
For further details about the project, or to inquire about volunteer opportunities in Shaftesbury, call 01305 269444 Monday to Friday 10 til 3. If you live in Sturminster Newton or its surrounding villages, Age Concern North Dorset provides the befriending service there. Please contact them on 01258 475582.
The 39th Volunteers’ Week runs from 1st to 7th June, joining thousands of charities and voluntary organisations across the country in recognising the contribution volunteers make. The Blackmore Vale Partnership (BVP) is gearing up to celebrate their Health Champion volunteers who work with local GP practices to provide community support.
During Volunteers’ Week, a member of the wellbeing team from the BVP will be holding
a drop-in at The Exchange in Sturminster Newton, during their regular Country Market between 9.30 and ll.30am. It’s a great opportunity to have a chat over a cuppa and find out more.
Jackie Monckton, Social Prescriber says: ‘Our volunteers provide a range of essential support in our local community: groups for bereavement, carers support, menopause and Parkinson’s. They have established Community Larders, assist with community clinics
for older people and providing opportunities like Coffee Companions, Wellbeing Walking and more.’
Rowan Chambers, a Volunteer Health Champion, says ‘I find volunteering incredibly rewarding. It really has been one of the best things I have ever decided to do.’
For more information on available activities or to find out how to get involved yourself, simply contact the wellbeing team for a chat on 01747 856786.
Dorset County Show has announced that its chosen Charity of the Year is Dorset County Hospital Charity, which is running a £2.5m Capital Appeal to assist with funding enhancements to the planned new Emergency Department (ED) and Critical Care Unit of Dorset County Hospital.
The decision to support the hospital holds personal significance for Nicki Ralph, Chair of the County Show. Her husband, Nic, experienced total kidney failure and sepsis last year. He spent almost three weeks in a coma, with 11 of those days on life support. Nicki says: ‘This truly is a cause close to my heart. My family are indebted to the incredible support the hospital gave my husband who, without a shadow of a doubt, wouldn’t be alive today without their unstinting help.’
Show stalwart Nic, 67, is now recovering well at home, and is aiming to do some fundraising himself for the hospital once he is fully recovered.
Simon Pearson, Head of Charity for the hospital, highlighted the overwhelming demand faced by the Emergency Department and Critical Care Unit, with over 50,000 people treated annually despite its original capacity of 22,000 attendances.
To support the fundraising efforts, the Dorset County Show has planned several events. The annual Tractor Run is scheduled for Sunday, June 25th – tractors of all ages, sizes and makes will travel from Cheselbourne to Piddletrenthide
and back (see image above).
Additionally, a Dorset-themed Charity Night will take place on Wednesday, August 30th at the Showground, featuring music, bingo, and a bring-your-own food event. The Show itself is on the weekend of September 2nd and 3rd, and will be showcasing the usual county show mix of giant vegetables, prize cows, Dorset crafts and foods, monster trucks, axemen in action and hoedown music. It’s a line-up with something for everyone!
dorsetcountyshow.co.uk
The independent familyowned Dorset brewer, Hall & Woodhouse, has launched its 22nd Community Chest Awards. Applications are open for charitable organisations to seek support from the pledged £50,000 fund. The Community Chest supports a wide range of charities and community projects, providing grants from £300 to £3,000. The longstanding annual initiative aims to assist with various projects, educational activities, running costs, and the expansion of charitable activities. Mark Woodhouse,
Family Director, said: ’Hall & Woodhouse’s purpose is to enrich our local communities. I hope that the Community Chest will once again play an important role in supporting the many great voluntary organisations in our trading area across the south. It’s a privilege to be able to support the vital projects that make such a difference to their local communities.’
Since 2002, over £750,000 has been donated to more than 900 causes, and partnerships with Dorset and Sussex Community Foundations have been
established.
Successful applicants will be notified in November 2023, with an awards ceremony in January 2024, involving a judging panel consisting of Hall & Woodhouse team members, family, and local business leaders.
We are looking forward to welcoming bestselling author Kate Mosse to Sherborne next month for an evening talk and signing with her brand new book The Ghost Ship. A sweeping and epic love story, taking the reader from France in 1610 to Amsterdam and the Canary Islands in the 1620s. Across the seas of the seventeenth century, two seafarers are forced to fight for their lives. The Barbary Coast, 1621. A mysterious vessel floats silently on the water – it is known only as the Ghost Ship. Manned by a courageous crew of mariners from Italy, France, Holland and the Canary Islands, for months it has hunted pirates to liberate those enslaved during the course of their merciless raids. But the bravest among the crew are not who they seem and the stakes could not be
higher. If arrested, they will be hanged for their crimes. Can they survive the journey and escape their fate?
The sequel to The City of Tears, The Ghost Ship is the third novel in The Joubert Family Chronicles. Published on 6th July, it is a thrilling novel of adventure and buccaneering, love and revenge, stolen fortunes and hidden secrets on the High Seas. Most of all, it is a tale of defiant women in a world run by men. You can pre-order The Ghost Ship from Winstones and all good bookshops, but if you book to go along to the talk on 9th July, you can choose to receive a signed copy of the book as part of a £20 entry ticket.
I’m sure I’m not the only one who sometimes gets a hankering for a certain type of cake. Recently I was after a really lemony, soft cake with oodles of deliciously squidgy blueberries and something crunchy to finish (I’m oddly specific, I know)... And this is the result. It’s super-simple to put together as the cake ingredients just get mixed all in one go. I also chose to bake it in a loaf tin, which requires a slightly longer bake time, but I wanted the deep cake under the crunchy crumble topping. You could of course swap the berry to another fruity favourite if you wish. I also chose to make mine with Oatly greek style yoghurt – you could quite easily make this with a vegan butter alternative for a dairy-free cake.
For the cake
• 150g caster sugar
• 100g butter
• 100g Greek-style yoghurt
• 1 egg
• Zest and juice of 2 lemons
• Punnet of blueberries
• 200g self raising flour
• 1 level tsp baking powder
For crumble topping
• 75g plain flour
• 50g Demerara sugar
• 50g butter
Optional
• Icing sugar to drizzle, made up with the juice of 1 lemon.
1. Pre-heat the oven to 180º/160º fan/gas 5. Grease and line a 2lb loaf tin (about 10cm deep).
2. In a bowl, add all the crumble topping ingredients. Using your hands, mix and squish together until you form a crumbly mix.
3. Into a large bowl or stand mixer, add all the cake ingredients except the blueberries. Mix together, gently at first and then mix well to make sure it is well combined.
4. Add in roughly 90% of the blueberries – keep some back for the top – and stir in gently.
5. Tumble the cake mixture into the loaf tin and smooth out. Sprinkle the crumble topping over to cover the cake mixture. Top the crumble mix with your remaining blueberries.
6. Bake in the oven for 45 to 55 minutes**. The cake will be done if the topping is golden brown, if it no longer jiggles when you very gently shake it and when you insert a skewer, it comes out clean.
7. Leave to cool.* Optional – mix a little icing sugar with either water or the juice of a lemon and drizzle over the top of the cake before cutting.
*You don’t necessarily need to leave to cool completely … I didn’t, and can personally confirm that it is actually wonderful when served still-warm with a cup of tea. Just be very careful when moving the cake before it’s completely cold as it has a very soft texture and will easily break.
** Loaf cakes take much longer to cook as they are quite deep. It can be a tricky to balance getting the middle cooked without the top/sides becoming overcooked. Do adjust according to your oven. If after 45 minutes the top is still pale, then nudge the temperature up slightly to brown it.
Heather Brown is a food writer, photographer and stylist. A committee member of The Guild of Food Writers, Heather runs Dorset Foodie Feed, as well as working one-to-one with clients.
Images: Heather Brown
When you wander into Oliver’s, it feels like stepping back in time. The elaborate and original Art Deco tiling is a throwback to the 1920s, when the building housed a pork butcher and general provisions store. Today the fittings blend with the warmth of a busy cafe at the top of Sherborne’s Cheap Street, adding a sense of quirkiness to the pervading aroma of good coffee beans. There’s a hum of background chatter as people
enjoy a coffee and cake. Owner Jane Wood explains how Oliver’s got its name.
‘Mr John Oliver owned the building in 1986 and he started the cafe, calling it Oliver’s. My landlord bought the building from him. And now it’s me!’
The building has a long sociable communal table in the main cafe area, with more private tables and alcoves and also tables in the garden for sunny days. The alcove areas used to hold the shop shelving; it’s remarkable to see how the old traditional fittings blend so well with a busy modern coffee house.
What brought you here?
I just saw it for sale in 2011. I’ve worked in hospitality for a long time; I’ve worked at Summer Lodge and at the Manor Hotel in Yeovil and I’ve done bar work. When this came up I was working in a cocktail bar in Yeovil. To be honest, I’d had enough of nighttime working. When you get the other side of 30, you’ve had enough of dealing with drunks.
Tell us about the team?
We have about 20 people on staff – full timers, weekenders, and some regular students who are about to return from university for the summer.
What flies out of the cafe?
The apricot flapjacks (obviously I volunteered to do a taste test. Delicious. No wonder they’re in demand). Our quiches are also popular. We make everything here on the premises, and constantly review items that don’t sell well, replacing them with something that does.’
Tell us about your suppliers?
We try to use a lot of local suppliers! Our eggs are from Silverton Farm, our dairy produce is from Longman’s near Yeovil, and the alcohol is from Vineyards here in Sherborne. We get our fruit and vegetables from the lovely greengrocer on Cheap Street, our meat is from the butcher next door (Parsons) and also Loders in Yeovil. All our bread is from Oxfords, we use
An Art Deco coffee shop has been a Sherborne staple for more than 35 years – owner Jane Woods tells Rachael Rowe that it’s all about local
Longman’s cheese and we serve Reads coffee.
What are you most proud of?
I guess the simple fact that we have maintained a popular high street business. And that we employ local people and support local suppliers.
And your biggest challenge?
The energy bills and inflation. I’ve had to go from part time to full time to keep things going. COVID was a challenge for everyone, but as an established business we came out better than we thought – it must have been a lot harder for new businesses or those already struggling. We focused on what we could do, rather than what we couldn’t. I offered Easter cakes, Mothers Day teas – which people loved – and the like. We had to furlough everyone, and I just worked.
But right now it’s the cost of energy that is challenging – we were a £1,000 per month, and we went up to £3,000 a month. That’s a lot of coffee and cake...
What do you recommend?
Our cherry and marzipan cake! It’s delicious; quite an old recipe, it’s really different – and hardly anyone else does it.
And we sell loads of our Guinness pudding!
So what’s next?
We are now doing quite a lot of outside catering, which works well. We’ve catered for functions with the local council, the Friends of the Yeatman Hospital, and we’ll be at Sherborne Castle Country Fair. Another area of our outside catering is providing a vintage afternoon tea for an occasion such as a wedding. We’re also getting increasing
requests for occasion cakes like birthdays, anniversaries, engagements etc. Once a month we host Sherboard Games night, too –there’s no entry fee, everyone’s welcome. Board games are provided or people can bring their favourites.
Oliver’s is open 9 til 5 Mon to Fri, Sat 9.30 to 5, Sun 10 to 4. Oliver’s Coffee House
19 Cheap St, Sherborne. Oliverscoffeehouse.co.uk
Lucy Tidbury’s moo pictures have a popular following –Edwina Baines asks the Dorset artist about her work
When Thomas Hardy described the Blackmore Vale as the ‘Vale of the Little Dairies’, I doubt that he envisaged a dairy cow photobombing the scene. But many readers will be familiar with Lucy Tidbury’s ‘Moo Selfie’ range of paintings and designs, inspired by Dorset’s scenery. Curious cows are not her only models, however – she also paints alpacas, sheep and even camels in her usual vibrant style, as well as pet portrait commissions. ‘The only thing I don’t paint is people!’ she told me on my visit to her shop and gallery. Lucy’s farm is in one of Swanage’s quirky side streets, which are full of similarly independent shops. The gallery showcases Lucy’s original oil paintings and prints – alongside a wide range of items including greetings cards, tea towels, coasters, aprons, mugs and cheese boards.
Lucy lives near Wareham, with the scenery of the Purbecks as constant inspiration. She studied Fine Art at the Bournemouth Arts Institute and went on to complete a BA Degree in Fine Art at the University of Chichester,
graduating in 2007 and becoming a full-time artist in 2014. She enjoyed art at school and was encouraged by some great teachers and a parent who wanted her “to work in a subject she loved.”
Her passion for art has developed into an expanding business, helped by the fact that Business Studies was a minor part of her degree course
– ‘it helped me understand accounting and tax returns. If you do a degree in a creative subject, it is important that you understand what goes on in the real world. So I have the business head as well as a bit of a scatty artist’s head!’
The Moo Portraits were a turning point in Lucy’s career. ‘I was painting a lot of pet portraits and farm animals but
when I first wanted to exhibit during Purbeck Art Weeks I realised I needed something different from all the other artists. They were nearly all painting Old Harry, Durdle Door, Corfe Castle... so I decided to combine the animals I was already painting with iconic Dorset scenes. It was really successful and I realised I had hit on something a little bit different. I do like artwork which makes you smile.’
Too commercial?
As the business expanded, it became hard to juggle the various commitments and still fit in the time to actually paint. Lucy has two assistants, Jenny and Julie, who have helped in the shop from day one, and also the now-indispensable general factotum Patrick, who handles all the incoming orders and liaises with stockists.
Lucy carefully balances her time now – either going for a run or taking her dogs Ned and Nelly for walks in the Purbeck hills in the morning, often painting in the evenings.
‘Painting never feels like work!
I will work on two or three oil paintings at a time. There is a degree of pressure when I have a commission and I have to get a good likeness, but I like the challenge. Sometimes I paint vintage tractors, too – which I
love – and even Land Rovers. These have to be really accurate, as there is sure to be someone who notices!’
It can be easy to dismiss a successful artist as overly commercial but Lucy doesn’t worry about it. ‘I like that my
art is accessible to everyone. If nothing else, a customer can always buy a greeting card and have it framed. I love it when a child can buy a coaster of a pony with her pocket money and keep it in her bedroom.’
The steady flow of customers
into the shop includes as many holidaymakers as loyal local shoppers. Many are familiar with Lucy’s work and making return visits. One lady purchases items for her daughter in Canada to remind her of Dorset, others call in to see new work – or simply come across the shop while exploring Swanage.
Lucy also sells her work online and shows her designs at craft and agricultural shows around the country. When travelling to shows, Lucy has a towable shepherd’s hut. It’s a mini version of her shop inside and doubles up as accommodation. This year’s local bookings include Sherborne Castle Country Fair, Dorset County Show and the Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival.
In the future, Lucy hopes to develop the wholesale side of the business – she feels it is important that all the items for sale are made by small British suppliers. A family-run business in Stoke on Trent supplies all of Lucy’s pottery ranges, printers in Weymouth produce the cards (of which there are 120 different designs) and the canvas prints are made in Swanage.
The cow theme is popular for kitchen art and the canvases can be wiped clean, with the added advantage of no glare from the glass.
During Purbeck Art Weeks Lucy will be exhibiting
some new original work as well as framed prints at Rollington Barn near Corfe Castle. ‘They’re just happy pictures!’ said Lucy.
lucysfarm.co.uk
Snacking has become a common habit for many people, especially those trying to lose weight; it’s often believed that eating ‘little and often’ helps keep blood sugar stable. However, counterresearch suggests that cutting out snacks may actually be more beneficial for weight loss, insulin control and gut health.
One reason cutting out snacks can aid in weight loss – aside from consuming less calories – is related to improved insulin control. Insulin is a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels. When we eat, our body releases insulin to help move glucose (sugar) from our bloodstream into our cells, where it can be used for energy. However, if we constantly graze on food, we are continuously stimulating the body and triggering an insulin response. Elevated insulin levels tell the body to store excess glucose as glycogen for later use – and that surplus is stored as fat.
It doesn’t help that many of the most popular
snacks, like crisps and biscuits, are high in sugar and unhealthy fats. Consuming these regularly not only adds empty calories, it can also lead to an inflammatory response. Chronic inflammation increases the risk of developing chronic diseases and may contribute to insulin resistance and impaired glucose metabolism – both risk factors for type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, research suggests that snacking on unhealthy foods may disrupt the balance of bacteria in our gut, potentially leading to other health problems.
However, it’s important to note that not all snacking is harmful. Snacking on fruits, vegetables, seeds and nuts can provide important nutrients and actively support overall health.
To understand why we snack, it’s helpful to look at the work of James Clear, who has written extensively about habits. He suggests they are formed through a process called The Habit Loop, which consists of three stages: cue, routine, reward.
It could well be that it’s your well-meaning little-and-often grazing habit that’s contributing to your ill health, says expert Karen Geary
My personal cue is simply walking into the kitchen and opening the fridge door...
The cue is the trigger that prompts us to engage in a particular habit. For snacking, cues can be anything from seeing a bag of crisps on the counter to feeling bored or stressed. My personal cue is simply walking into the kitchen and opening the fridge door. When we encounter a cue, our brain automatically enters ‘habit mode’, urging us to engage in the routine of snacking in order to receive the reward – which could be pleasure or simply relief from stress.
To break the habit of snacking, it’s important to identify the cues that trigger the habit in the first place. This may involve keeping a food diary or simply paying attention to the situations or emotions that lead us to snack. Once we have identified our cues, we can start experimenting with different routines that provide an equivalent reward. For example, if you tend to snack when feeling stressed, try going for a walk or doing some deep breathing exercises instead.
Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is a device implanted on the upper arm that provides continuous information on blood glucose levels. Recently, there has been some backlash against using CGMs in healthy individuals. However, I disagree. CGMs empower us to observe the effects of food on our glucose levels (a good proxy for insulin response) and then to make adjustments to lower our average. I feel it’s better to be proactive than it is to fall into metabolic dysfunction and eventually develop type 2 diabetes. My clients typically take about a month to understand what works for them and how to adjust their eating accordingly. Snacking is one of the common adjustments, as the time between meals lowers blood glucose for a sustained period. Cutting out snacks can be a beneficial strategy for weight loss, for improved insulin management and even potentially for overall gut health. To break the habit of snacking, it’s important to identify the cues that trigger the habit and then to just experiment with alternative routines to find something that works for you.
Have confidence in the decisions you make.
When it comes to giving advice, we take the time to get to know your business and what you want to achieve, whilst making sure that we explain your options in everyday language.
By working with us, you can be confident that whatever decisions you make, they’ll be based on sound legal advice that’s in your best interest.
Dorset Mind is marking PTSD Awareness Day, sharing personal experiences and promoting resources for help and understanding of the disorder
*Trigger warning: This article discusses Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and symptoms of PTSD. Please seek support via the signposting at the end.
On 27th June, Dorset Mind
will mark PTSD Awareness Day by helping to increase the understanding around PTSD, sharing powerful real-life experiences of those living with PTSD, and signposting help for those who need it.
What is PTSD?
PTSD is an anxiety disorder that affects any age after witnessing a singular traumatic life-threatening event or serious injury. It can also affect people who have been exposed to continuous unsafe and dangerous circumstances, which is known as Complex PTSD. According to ptsduk.org, 50 per cent of people will experience trauma at some point in their life.
Symptoms of PTSD may present as flashbacks or nightmares about the incident, which may lead to avoiding certain people, places and things that remind them of the trauma.
PTSD can heighten emotions such as anger, irritability and hatred. It can present itself in many ways – these are simply the most common symptoms.
A former Dorset Mind participant, who wishes to remain anonymous, shares their experience:
‘I feel like my brain’s working overtime, trying to block out negative memories. I detach myself from those thoughts
because I don’t recognise who I am now as the person who witnessed those events.
I’ve had therapy, which has helped, but there are certain memories locked off in my brain. I get very confused when I try to recall events, I can’t retell my story fully without feeling like I’m exaggerating or lying.
‘I feel in a safe space now, where I am a lot happier. However, when I’m exposed to certain triggers –in films, books or hearing others’ shared experiences – I can feel extremely uncomfortable and suddenly emotional, to the point I’ve found myself shaking and crying, but unable to explain why.
‘I feel like I’ve created an exaggerated lie in my head, like I’ll never truly be able to understand what happened, so I find it best to detach myself to keep going.
As an adult, I have developed a better understanding of what is right and wrong and am relearning to trust myself.
It has affected my relationships, but I am feeling more confident in making decisions based on protecting my own wellbeing.’
It’s important for people who have experienced trauma to feel they are listened to and supported. It may take time for someone with PTSD to feel comfortable seeking help or talking about things. Simply give them time to talk at their own pace and the power to decide who to confide in. Remember, it may not always be obvious that someone is living with these issues. They may not even be aware themselves, but may still experience some of the symptoms above.
On 16th June, Dorset Mind will shine a light on the impacts of trauma and living with PTSD in its FREE community conference at Dorchester Community Church from 11am to 2pm.
The charity invites adults aged 18 and over to join in an interactive session of education and workshops, delivered by expert trainers and carefully selected guests.
Click the link to register to attend: https://bit.ly/DMConfPTSD
• Visit dorsetmind.uk for 1-21 and group mental health support
• Visit ptsd.org for information about PTSD and C-PTSD
• Call Anxiety UK’s national helpline on 03444 775 774 (Mon-Fri 9:30 to 5:30)
• Call Samaritans for free 24/7 emotional support on 116 123
• Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger.
The county’s top apprentices were hailed at the Dorset Apprenticeship Awards for their dedication, adaptability, and exceptional performance. The awards ceremony, sponsored by Superior Seals and hosted by Dorset Chamber in collaboration with the Dorset and Somerset Training Provider Network (DSTPN), marked its second annual celebration of apprentice excellence.
The winners were:
• Nicky Sayers from Avon Magnetics Ltd in Christchurch, who won Intermediate Apprentice of the Year. Her training was undertaken at Bournemouth & Poole College.
• Katie Smith from BBD Boom in Bournemouth, named Advanced Apprentice of the Year, trained by Intequal.
• Florence Hudson from the
Poole office of JPP, who claimed the Higher and Degree Apprentice of the Year title, with her training provider being the University of Portsmouth.
Ian Girling, CEO of Dorset Chamber, expressed admiration for the remarkable stories shared by individuals from such diverse sectors throughout Dorset. ‘Judging was very difficult and we read some inspirational stories from people of all ages from many different sectors across the whole of Dorset.
‘The success of the winners is testament to just how important and valuable apprenticeships are to Dorset businesses, the local economy and professional development,’ he said.
The awards, launched last year to highlight apprenticeships, acknowledge apprentice contributions to businesses,
and celebrate their workplace accomplishments, has seen increasing participation and positive feedback from the business sector.
The winners were declared at Superior Seals in Ferndown from a shortlist of 12 outstanding finalists. Among the distinguished guests present were HM LordLieutenant of Dorset Angus Campbell, who handed out the trophies alongside judges Tim Brown, Ian Girling, and Rod Davis from DSTPN. Attendees included finalists, their families, employers, training providers, and Dorset Chamber president Caron Khan.
As the celebration concluded, plans for next year’s competition were already in the works, indicating a thriving future for apprenticeships in the region.
Focused on a farm-to-fork ethos, the Dorset Meat Company, based in Henstridge, prides itself on its partnership with small-scale, family-run farms that adhere to traditional animal husbandry methods.
Nick Somper, Founder of the Dorset Meat Co., expressed his delight at the recognition, hailing it as a testament to the whole team: ‘This prestigious national award is recognition of the dedication of the wonderful Dorset Meat Company team, as well as a real testimony to the work of all our amazing farmers, growers and producers. Their grass-fed, sustainable and ethically-raised produce allows our customers across the UK to enjoy the best food.
‘We believe strongly that smallscale farming is better for the farmer, the animal, the local ecology, and also for the consumer. We advocate that we all eat less meat, but to ensure it’s of the very highest quality and is produced in a way that respects nature, the environment and the animal. Eating meat from animals that themselves have only eaten a natural diet of grass, and wildflowers rich in vitamins and minerals makes sense. It’s a healthy choice to make.’
The Dorset Meat Company’s commitment to healthy, ethical, and sustainable food productionmeans they work with farms which prioritise natural and biodiverse environments, ensuring that the animals are raised without being rushed, which in turn enhances the texture and flavour of the meat. It is this high-integrity farming that is the heart of the Dorset Meat Company’s values. By cultivating relationships with these smaller, more traditional farms, the company makes it possible for their customers
to make ethical and informed choices about the food they eat.
In addition to the butchery, Dorset Meat Co. also offer an impressive range of prepared meals, crafted by professional chefs in Dorset, delivering convenience and taste straight to the dinner table. Delivering across the UK five days a week, It’s not just locals who can enjoy the finest West Country produce. But, despite the name, the Dorset Meat Company isn’t just about meat. Their product range extends to an impressive selection of British artisanal and farmhouse cheeses, crafted by award-winning independent cheesemakers from the West Country. Their selection of outstanding deli items is equally impressive, featuring Dorset charcuterie, smoked salmon, home-made pies, and a variety of organic, home-made goods such as Dorset Sea Salt, bone broths, and a plethora of Mediterranean pastes and pestos.
thedorsetmeatcompany.co.uk
Old Yarn Mills-based Vineyards wine shop has earned recognition from the prestigious International Wine Challenge (IWC), landing a spot in the finals for this year’s Single Site Retailer of the Year in the Merchant Awards. This international honour follows closely on their recent victory at the Drinks Retailing Awards.
The IWC Industry Awards, established in 1991, exist to acknowledge and celebrate the exceptional accomplishments of the UK wine industry.
When the 2023 finalists were announce, the IWC were proud to state that ‘only the most outstanding businesses have been shortlisted for an award this year!’
Vineyards is in esteemed company in this year’s awards, with other finalists including renowned houshold brand names such as Naked Wines, Waitrose and Majestic. Making it to the finals of one of the global wine industry’s most respected awards is a particularly
notable accomplishment for Vineyards. The family-run enterprise has been committed to ‘sourcing and storytelling’ outstanding wines since 2005. The team, led by Hannah Wilkins, her wife and business partner Sadie, along with their trusted crew of wine connoisseurs, deliver an extensive selection, are renowned for their bespoke personal service, and for
generating a real sense of community. They host regular tasting evenings and workshops, cementing their position as a favorite local hub.
The awards ceremony is scheduled for July 4th, set to unfold amidst the grandeur of London’s Hurlingham Club, and promises to be a remarkable occasion for the dedicated and passionate team at Vineyards.
Another Country is opening a showroom at Chaldicott Barns in Semley, bringing the awardwinning, carbon-neutral British furniture company back to where the brand was born.
Another Country stands out for its commitment to sustainability, utilising superior natural materials, time-honoured techniques and a design approach that emphasizes durability. Their designs draw inspiration from the British Country vernacular as well as Shaker, traditional Scandinavian and Japanese woodwork. Having a Central London studio since 2014, as more people gravitate towards remote work
and contemporary country living, Another Country’s new showroom provides customers in the West Country the opportunity to view their meticulously designed products in person. The new showroom, set in a beautifully converted barn, is divided into distinct dining, living, and sleeping spaces.
Paul de Zwart, the founder of
Another Country, expressed excitement about the new venture, saying, ‘We are truly thrilled to open a showroom in Dorset, the place where our brand first took root.’
Another Country’s Semley showroom is open from 10 to 4 Wed to Fri, 10 to 2 Saturdays.
www.anothercountry.com
Whether your planning ahead with a funeral plan or when a loved one passes away, end-of-life care needs to be dependable, compassionate and ethical. With decades of experience, our trusted funeral services are available whenever you need us on 0800 008 6878.
Local to you in:
Frome • Gillingham • Shaftesbury • Warminster
I n e a r l y J u n e t h e w o r l d o f l e a f a n d
b l a d e a n d f l o w e r s
e x p l o d e s , a n d e v e r y s u n s e t i s d i f f e r e n t .
G O T S O M E N E W S ?
G e t i n t o u c h w i t h L a u r a o n e d i t o r @ B V m a g a z i n e . c o . u k
T H I N K Y O U R B U S I N E S S W O U L D
M A K E A G O O D F E A T U R E ?
G O T A S U G G E S T I O N F O R A L O C A L
P E R S O N Y O U ' D L I K E T O S E E S H A R E
T H E I R D O R S E T I S L A N D D I S C S ?
S e n d a q u i c k e m a i l t o e d i t o r @ B V m a g a z i n e . c o . u k
W A N T T O A D V E R T I S E ?
G e t i n t o u c h w i t h C o u r t e n a y t o c h a t a b o u t w h a t y o u ' r e l o o k i n g f o r :
a d v e r t i s i n g @ B V m a g a z i n e . c o . u k
0 1 2 5 8 4 7 2 5 7 2
P R O D U C T I O N
S C H E D U L E :
N e x t P u b l i c a t i o n D a t e :
7 t h J u l y
( d e a d l i n e 3 0 t h J u n e )
T h e n
4 t h A u g u s t
1 s t S e p t e m b e r
F u r t h e r f o r w a r d s - p u b l i c a t i o n a l w a y s f i r s t
F r i d a y o f t h e m o n t h , b o o k i n g d e a d l i n e a l w a y s t h e F r i d a y p r i o r t o p u b l i s h i n g
John Steinbeck
Back cover image: Hare, by Ian Nelson
