The BV Magazine, Nov 23

PROUD TO BE ONLY DIGITAL – WE LOVE TREES!

November ‘23

ISSN 2634-8810

From the heart of the Blackmore Vale

The BV magazine - November ‘23

IN THIS ISSUE Sally Tuffin has been at the forefront of British design – from swinging 60s London with Mary Quant to now, in her mid-80s, as she continues to design for Dennis Chinaworks, the art pottery she and her husband founded 30 years ago | Page 24

‘I think I have lost my business. How do you recover from this?’

The Sherborne businesses devastated by flood | Page 4

Meet Dorset craftsmen Chris and Ed – internationally recognised as two of the world’s best under-40 leatherworkers | Page 50

Q&A with West Dorset MP Chris Loder. He offered to answer an open postbag – and here he has answered all the letters that were sent| Page 18

From city chef to Dorset farmer – Julius Roberts is the Instagram sensation working to reconnect a modern audience with their food | Page 20

Spencer Flower shares his journey from Gillingham council estate to the award-winning leadership of Dorset Council in his Dorset Island Discs | Page 56

Front cover: Milky Way at Knowlton Church by William Evans

The BV magazine, November ‘23

INDEX

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, just click the number below to jump straight to the section you want.

Or just make yourself a coffee and start from the beginning...

36 A Country Living – Orris Leather 113 Announcements 73 Art - Marzia Colonna and Fiamma Montagu 64 Book corner 111 Business news 41 Community News 31 Dorset Island Discs – Cllr Spencer Flower 94 Equestrian 91 Farming 79 Food & Drink 107 Health 114 Jobs 46 Letters to the Editor 50 Local history 4 News 54 Night Sky 86 Out of doors 58 Politics 44 Puzzles 20 Random 19 – Julius Roberts 101 Reader's photography 62 Rural Matters – CPRE 56 Take a hike 65 What's on 98 Wildlife

Contact The BV Team: 01258 472572

Editor: Laura Hitchcock editor@BVmagazine.co.uk Advertising: Courtenay Hitchcock advertising@BVmagazine.co.uk Sub-editors: Gay Pirrie-Weir Fanny Charles Everything else: Try Courtenay, he’s the organised one...

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR I’m going to avoid the ‘state of the world’ commentary this month.

I’m bored with trying to find a positive spin on a basket full of nightmares.

The two alternatives I have half-drafted are rapidly getting equally shouty. And if there’s one thing literally no one needs right now is one more person shouting about Wrong Things from their corner.

So instead, I’m going to talk about some Happy Things. Most people know that Courtenay is a photographer, and many assume that he takes the cover photo each month. He certainly travels the county photographing talented people creating beautiful things.

But the cover shot? No. He’s not allowed – and hasn’t been since Issue 2.

Because that, dear reader, is all yours.

Every month we welcome submissions via our Facebook group and by email. And every month we are inundated with a pop up seasonal art gallery of astonishing photography*.

It’s absolutely joyous.

By deadline day (the Monday before we publish) we will, in an average month, have received more than 700 submissions. These are whittled down to a shortlist of 30 or so, which we then request as high resolution versions. And then comes my personal highlight of publication week; settling down with C and a mug of coffee to go through them all, comfortably bickering for a while over the merits of each picture as we slowly select the 12 which will make the reader’s photography section (unless we make an exception – there’s 13 this month!) – plus the coveted cover shot.

The sheer talent of our local photographers never fails to astonish us. And I know they bring the same joy to every BV reader. But what’s even nicer is the support and appreciation in the group – everyone’s just there to enjoy them, and every submission is welcomed, no matter the subject, the style or the experience of the photographer. From phone shots to macro insects, astrophotography to drone stills – everything’s welcome. We’ve never set a theme, but by accident seem to have fallen into the embarrassment of riches that is Dorset wildlife and landscapes. And honestly? That’s fine by us!

And if you sometimes miss out the photography section .. maybe don’t? You also might just want to flip back and take a closer look at that glorious front starry cover from William Evans, too.

(*I mean, I do tell C he’s welcome to submit like anyone else ... but I also warn him it’s seriously stiff competition out there.)

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

NEWS

by Rachael Rowe

Flash flooding devastates Sherborne’s Old Yarn Mill

Businesses in Sherborne’s old Yarn Mill face uncertain future after devastating floods, but the community rallies to support recovery efforts ‘I think I have lost my business.

How do you recover from something like this?’

When a torrent of water swept down Sherborne’s Ottery Lane on the A352, the impromptu river devastated businesses in the Old Yarn Mill Business Centre. Lee Steele has run LS Flooring for 25 years and it was his unit which bore the brunt of the deluge on 28th October: ‘The back doors to my business just couldn’t hold up against the water that poured through the building. To start, I was ankle deep ... before I knew it the doors blew off and I was up to my hips in floodwater.

‘All the carpet samples and equipment have been ruined and had to go to the tip. I’ve lost around £30,000 of stock.

Because there has been a flood before, the insurance won’t pay out. We’ve had floods three times in the last 18 months – before that just once in the previous 25 years. To be honest, I don’t think it’s sunk in yet.’

Hannah Wilkins from Vineyards was also affected by the flooding.

‘We have never had flooding like this before. Although our back doors are three feet above the ground, passing cars caused bow waves, making the water higher and it just kept washing in. With all the roads above us and the concrete, this run off had nowhere to go.

‘The last time the drains had been cleared by the council was 12 months ago, so there was a lot of build up of silt and leaves.

‘Lee’s business became a river and water flowed from his into everyone else’s. The drains in the car park were unable to 4

The devastation left behind in the LS Flooring unit – Lee Steele estimates there’s £30,000 of damage

The BV magazine, November ‘23

NEWS cope with the water. We were all firefighting at the exits and also the front of the premises.

Although our wines were stored off the floor, our store-room was affected. And down there, the water made all the cardboard boxes crumble so it was unsafe.

We had to get loads of pallets and make plinths to store everything.

‘But now, when it comes to insurance, we’re classed as a flood plain and everyone’s premiums will go up. The landlord is having to install flood defences. All this water has come from somewhere. When you put more concrete around, the water has nowhere else to drain.

We know the builders made a reservoir at the top of the road, but we’ve been and looked at it – and it is empty.’

Community action One of the positive things to come from all the devastation was the community response.

Hannah was amazed at how people turned out to help.

‘We put an appeal on social media for help with the cleanup and around 30 people turned up! They cleaned the place, took stuff to the tip and helped build plinths. And people brought coffee and cakes and bacon sarnies. It was one of the positives to come from this. ’There are lots of businesses here that were affected, including

Vineyards had to work fast to raise their stock above the flood

Molecula, Mary Hossack Antiques and Parachute Bar.’ Sherborne town councillors turned up on Sunday morning.

Town Clerk Steve Shield told the BV: ‘We became aware of the problem last Saturday and visited to assess the damage on Sunday.

The town council assisted with the clear-up process and was able to negotiate with Dorset Council about removing the waste to the recycling centre.

Six full loads, weighing two tons, were removed from the site.

‘On Monday we spoke to Dorset Council, and the highways team has been doing some clearance.

The sheer amount of water was incredible – we had properties affected all over the town, including on Cheap Street, parts of Horsecastles and the top of the town.

The pressure of the floodwater forced LS Flooring’s back door off its hinges and an impromptu river filled the unit – the water level can be seen inside the glass as it begins to pour out the front of the building

’The public can help. If they see a blocked drain, report it to Dorset Council highways department, so that it receives attention. If we don’t know there’s a problem, it can’t be fixed.’

Owners of businesses in Old Yarn Mill continue to clear up and assess the damage. They are also looking ahead with trepidation at a season of winter storms.

‘We are very worried about Storm Ciaran this week,’ says Hannah.

‘The Chamber of Commerce and Town Council have been to see us and Highways have now been clearing the drains. However, when this has all settled, we need to sit down with all of these people and sort out what can be done to support us – particularly if this area is going to be regularly flooded.

‘And the public can really help by supporting the local businesses at Yarn Mill. Come and buy a beer from Parachute (or wine from us). Keep Molecula and Mary Hossack in mind for antique shopping – maybe for Christmas gifts. If you need signwriting, check out South West Signs.

‘We also have an open weekend from 16th to 18th November, so do please come and support us all. We have been blow away by the community spirit we have encountered and we want turn this disaster into a positive.’

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

NEWS

by Fanny Charles

An artist’s impression of part of the new development

Wyatt Homes’ Blandford-Pimperne development approved ‘Sad day for democracy’ as planners ignore neighbourhood plans and approve development on AONB, outside Blandford bypass It was ‘a sad day for local democracy,’ said Pimperne Parish Council chairman Peter Slocombe, after Dorset Council’s northern area planning committee, meeting at The Exchange at Sturminster Newton, approved by seven votes to one the application by Wyatt Homes to build 490 homes on a 37-hectare/91-acre site between Blandford and Pimperne.

The application was for full planning permission for 150 new homes and outline planning consent for a further 340, on land outside Blandford bypass, adjoining the A354 and A350.

The decision was particularly galling for Mr Slocombe, after he and parish councillors had spent hundreds of hours with volunteers to create the village’s Neighbourhood Plan. The permission was contrary to the policies in the plan and Pimperne would receive no Section 106 benefits (planning gain).

He said: ‘This decision sends a clear message to Dorset villages that it is hardly worth creating these plans, that were initiated

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by the government more than a decade ago.’

The development is on land that is partly within Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) or adjacent to the protected area. It is an established principle that planners should give ‘great weight’ to the site being within an AONB when considering development proposals.

Richard Burden, principal landscape and planning officer for Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, said the decision was very disappointing: ‘It seems strange that the committee didn’t seem to identify any exceptional circumstances that gave them a reason to grant permission in an AONB.’

The land where planning has been approved, as it looks currently

The BV magazine, November ‘23

NEWS Training for councillors He said that the Pimperne neighbourhood plan identified the site as land to be maintained as an open gap. ‘It flies in the face of all the efforts of preparing a neighbourhood plan,’ he said.

The detail of the two neighbourhood plans (Pimperne and Blandford) did not seem ‘to have been fully grasped by some members of the committee, who seemed to be swayed by the quality of the proposed development.’

After the decision, Richard offered to provide training to councillors on matters relating to AONBs. ‘There’s no point moaning if we aren’t prepared to do something,’ he said.

Wyatt Homes has welcomed the planners’ decision, which had come ‘after extensive consultation and engagement with the community.’ The new homes would prioritise energy efficiency and use advanced technologies, including high levels of insulation, top-tier glazing, solar PV panels, wastewater heat recovery and heat pumps, to minimise CO2 emissions.

Wyatt’s chief executive David Wyatt told the planners: ‘We are proud of the places we create and are committed to building well-designed, high-quality homes using local materials and locallybased contractors.’

The application had been strongly opposed by the AONB, North Dorset CPRE (Campaign to Protect Rural England), Pimperne Parish Council and local residents.

The objections were on these main grounds: • that housing needs are well provided for already in North Dorset, especially in Blandford and Pimperne.

• questionable evidence of the need for a new school, which would be paid for by Section 106 developer funding tied to this application.

• harm to the AONB. • conflict with Pimperne’s Neighbourhood Plan, as 150 homes would be built within Pimperne parish.

Richard Burden pointed out that the exceptional circumstances in which planning permission might be given for a site within an AONB included public interest,

but Dorset now has an adequate housing supply, which relieved the councillors from an obligation to give weight to housing need.

There was little evidence of the need for a new school, with data showing there were falling rolls in existing schools, he said, adding that it would be cheaper for Dorset Council to build extra classrooms (for around £1.5 million) rather than a new school, which could cost up to £20 million.

‘It doesn’t make sense to build outside the bypass,’ he said. He recognised that Wyatt Homes were aiming for zero carbon and would include landscaping and planting, but the development did not meet sustainability requirements: ‘Everybody will have to get into their cars to drive to the town centre,’ he said.

Creaking infrastructure North Dorset CPRE chairman Rupert Hardy said that the news last month that there was now a more than five-year housing land supply in North Dorset, with planning decisions in line with development plans, had

A map of the site, supplied by Wyatt Homes

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

NEWS encouraged the campaigners to feel that they stood a good chance of stopping the developers.

Rupert warned that the permission would now add to severe traffic congestion in and around Blandford and place more pressure on the town’s ‘creaking’ infrastructure. The development would also sacrifice good farmland, which currently contributes to food security and acts as a carbon sink against climate change.

The planning officer’s report had acknowledged that there was a conflict with the council’s development plan, which said building in the countryside should be resisted. However, said Mr Hardy, committee members seemed determined to approve yet more housing, with little regard for the harm it would cause to local residents, the AONB and to Pimperne.

‘Admittedly, the development is well designed, but is clearly in the wrong place. One wonders

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about the composition of the committee with no members on it representing Blandford.

‘One can also speculate that Dorset Council was keen to avoid a costly appeal should they have refused the scheme.’

In a statement, Poole-based Wyatt Homes said the project will also provide new pedestrian and cycle connections and 30 per cent of the homes will be affordable.

The house-builder also plans to plant more than 2,000 new trees throughout the site and more than 40 acres of public open space will make up nearly 50 per cent of the development.

Zero carbon plans Land would be set aside for a potential future school, allotments, a community hall, shops and play facilities. The developers will establish new cycling and pedestrian pathways and improve bus infrastructure, with upgraded stops and the possibility of extending existing

routes. David Wyatt said: ‘We will do our utmost to make this an exceptional development that not only Wyatt Homes is proud of, but the local community can be proud of too.’

Tim Hoskinson, Wyatt Homes’ planning director, said: ‘We are delighted with this strong, positive endorsement by the planning committee. These plans are the largest zero carbon-ready application that has come before the planning committee. It will deliver much needed new homes including vital affordable homes in Dorset.

‘We would like to thank those who commented on the plans during the extensive public consultation over several years, as well as Dorset councillors, those on the planning committee and council officers. This is a complex application and the comprehensive level of scrutiny by officers and detailed consideration by members shows the planning system working at its best.’

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

NEWS

Dorset Mounties

Riding into the fight against rural crime: Andrew Livingston spoke to one of Dorset’s new rural mounted volunteers You’ll struggle to find a village that doesn’t have a Neighbourhood Watch scheme or a collection of community Speedwatch volunteers. These initiatives allow for a greater number of eyes on those who are breaking the law in residential areas.

But how can you help catch criminals who operate out inn Dorset’s vast countryside?

‘I want the countryside to be as protected as anywhere else when it comes to tackling criminals,’ says Dorset’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) David Sidwick. ‘I’m very clear that the police can never have enough resources to be everywhere, all the time. That’s why we as the public also need to do our bit. It’s why we have the other Watches, but we had a gap. We didn’t have a mounted Neighbourhood Watch and that’s effectively what this is.

It is about all of us together, taking on the criminals who cause issues in the countryside.’

Now Dorset has its own team of Rural Mounted Volunteers.

Dorset is not the first county to encourage the public to saddle up and help combat crime by becoming a Rural Mounted Volunteer. But David says his initiative ‘is just one more weapon in our armoury to take on these criminals who plague our countryside’.

With six volunteers currently signed up, the Dorset Rural Crime Team is looking for another 18 volunteers across the county to ensure greater coverage. ‘Their job will be 10

Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick (right) with new Rural Mounted Volunteer Tamsin Doar on Stella, the sassy Welsh Cob

to help the police by giving us evidence and improving visibility in those areas,’ David says. ‘For me, this is just the next step in our journey to tackle rural crime.’

When David Sidwick was elected in 2021 there were only three people in the Dorset Rural Crime Team. ‘When I came into office I was very clear that the people of Dorset wanted rural crime tackled and I made certain that there was

investment available.

‘Now we have 18 people on the rural crime team and in the last 18 months, they’ve retrieved more than £1.3 million poundsworth of stolen goods – tractors, ATVs, generators and farm machinery – and given it back to the victims.’

The statistics show that the PCC’s investment has paid off.

The 2023 NFU Mutual Rural Crime report showed a 22 per cent national increase in rural

The BV magazine, November ‘23

NEWS

crime. In the same period, Dorset saw a 20 per cent drop.

The first Dorset Mountie Tamsin Doar is one of the six volunteers currently signed up. The 27-year-old, who patrols around Milton Abbas, first rode a horse at the age of two and has a strong farming background. oth her parents and her partner in the industry. It is neither of those, however, that makes her the perfect candidate to be a Rural Mounted Volunteer. There is another thing that makes her the perfect candidate to be a Rural Mounted Volunteer.

‘I actually already work for Dorset Police, in the control room. I heard they were advertising internally through a colleague who was working on the Rural Crime Team.

‘I thought it would be a good way to combine my personal equestrian interest and, from a professional point of view, try to help combat rural crime a little bit – or at least raise awareness and make sure it’s reported.’

As a Control Room Supervisor, Tamsin is usually either handling 999 calls or despatching radio messages to officers to respond to the information phoned in from the public – plenty of experience to help her spot rural crime.

During her 25 years on horseback, there have already been occasions where she has

seen crimes that would be see them, which can make a big worth reporting in her new role. difference. It’s worse if a rider She says: ‘I’ve seen livestock hasn’t got hi-viz.’ worrying – dog walkers with Thankfully, the Rural Crime their dogs off the lead, upsetting Team is issuing all of its sheep and cattle. volunteers with ‘Sometimes Dorset Police issue There was a you see injured high reflective wear 22 per cent wildlife, which for both rider and national most of the time horse, to make sure has just been hit they are visible at increase in by a car. But when all times. Plans are rural crime you’re out in the also in the works for – in the same middle of a field all Rural Mounted period, Dorset it can look a bit Volunteers to have suspicious. Also, body cameras on at saw a 20 per certain vehicles all times for further cent drop. ... sometimes evidence collecting you might see a when someone spots car or a vehicle that looks a a crime being committed – or bit out of place. it’s crawling even something suspicious along looking into farmyards or that may require further smallholdings – it just doesn’t investigation. quite look right.’

As in all the best police shows, a good cop needs a good partner Car vs horse – Starsky & Hutch, Turner & As a rider, one of the rural Hooch, Riggs and Murtaugh ... crimes she most often spots and now Tamsin and Stella. involves interactions with Any potential criminals in the motorists.

Milton Abbas area should ‘It’s the way they respond (or beware – Tamsin says that her don’t!) appropriately to horse homebred Welsh Cob can be riders. But also farmers have quite sassy! issues where they’re crossing their cattle and a motorist won’t • Dorset Police are looking want to wait. That can escalate for 18 more volunteers into an argument. across the county, especially ‘I’ve personally had a few runin the Blackmore Vale area. ins with motorists who don’t If you are interested in want to slow down. becoming a Rural Mounted Particularly at this time of year, Volunteer, apply by emailing when the sun gets quite low, it vol@dorset.pnn.police.uk can take a few extra seconds to

David Sidwick with some of the Dorset Rural Crime Team

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

NEWS

by Laura Hitchcock

The three lives of the 130-year-old ‘temporary’ building The Ibberton, Belchalwell and Woolland Village Hall – from a tin church to a thriving community hub, with state of the art big screen facilities Nestled in the tranquil embrace of North Dorset lies the Ibberton, Belchalwell and Woolland Village Hall. The unassuming building has constantly evolved over the course of its 130-year existence to continue meeting the everchanging needs of its three small rural communities.

In 1892, when the roofs of the local churches in Ibberton and Belchalwell had crumbled, local carpenter George Loder, undertook the construction of a temporary corrugated-iron church on glebe land at Ibberton.

The simple structure served as a place of worship and community gathering while Reverend L. S. Plowman began extensive fundraising efforts to restore the churches. In July 1909, Ibberton and Belchalwell welcomed back their places of worship, and the temporary church took on a new role as a Church Room for meetings, clubs, and entertainment. The hall’s altar was transformed into a makeshift stage, and was the setting for much homegrown entertainment including singing, handbells and acting with improvised costumes.

Christmas parties were a muchloved regular event and they continue to this day.

A Village Hall In 1948, the hall and its surrounding glebe land were sold to the Pitt-Rivers Estate, ushering in a new era as the Church Room became the official Village Hall, with its own committee and trustees. In 1977 the hall was finally purchased for £250.

The hall’s story took another turn in 1996 when ‘temporary’ centenarian was discovered to

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be leaning. With grants and local fundraising efforts, steel girders were installed to strengthen the structure. Three years later the 107-year-old windows were needing attention. At the same time grants allowed the electric heating and the 1950’s kitchen – complete with a butler sink and camping gas stove – were updated, and a disabled toilet and ramp access were added.

In 2001, a grand reopening marked a new chapter in the hall’s history, with the modern amenities creating a vibrant community hub.

Another facelift The latest hall project has just completed – a major upgrade of the audiovisual equipment, with LED stage lighting, and an electric film screen and projector.

This new upgraded equipment will enable the trustees and committee to offer new ways to bring the community together through films, theatre and live music, bringing the big screen into the small hall.

The hall also has a new gigabit fibre broadband connection supplied by Wessex Internet, which will enable streaming of

live arts performances, talks and training. They will be further enhanced by the energy efficient, maintainable, stage professional lighting.

As it looks forward to the next 130 years, the Ibberton, Belchalwell and Woolland Village Hall stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of rural communities, and is still here thanks to the dedication of its residents and the support of generous organisations.

Next film night:

Thursday 16th November 7.30pm | £5

Popcorn and ice cream, bar and raffle

ibbertonvillagehall@gmail.com or 07771 561099 for tickets

The BV magazine, November ‘23

NEWS

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

NEWS

A decade of helping to unlock the digital world!

For ten years, Dorset’s Digital Champions have been inspiring digital inclusion and transforming lives. Rachael Rowe reports Dorset Council is celebrating a decade of award-winning by its team of digital champions, in getting more of the county to use the internet.

Most of us are quite comfortable with online shopping – or even opening a copy of the BV Magazine. But in an ever-more digital world, what about those people who find accessing the internet a challenge?

In the first ten months of 2023, Dorset Council’s digital team were contacted by almost 2,000 people and a further 900 calls were made to the hotline.

The Lloyd’s Consumer index identified that 63 per cent of the UK population has a very high or high ability to use the internet, but 27 per cent has low or no ability – and that’s exactly where Dorset’s Digital Champions have their focus.

Digital champions at work in Sturminster Newton

broadband just weren’t there – we were only doing half a job.

A trailblazing project She had the foresight to ask the Lyndsey Trinder is the Route to then Dorset County Council to Inclusion project officer at Dorset look into and develop this area – Council, focusing on getting and she was given free rein to get Dorset people confident in using on with it. the internet. She has worked ‘Our digital inclusion work in with the team for Dorset was way five years and ahead of its time. It’s ‘People credits the project quite an achievement generally to one person’s – no-one else is know more ’tremendous celebrating ten foresight.’ years.’ than they ‘When I joined think – it’s it was known as We are the often just a the Superfast champions confidence Dorset Team and One of the pivotal concentrated on elements of getting issue getting superfast more people to broadband to use the internet everyone. However, my manager was the introduction of Digital saw that the basic skills and Champions into the community. abilities to be able to adapt to Lyndsey is incredibly proud of 14

the group of volunteers: ‘Oh they’re lovely ... amazing.

Around three-quarters of them have a background in IT or software, and they come from all walks of life. They really need strong people skills as well. One of the big things they have to do is to win the trust of those people who don’t really want to be online – they need patience plus patience plus patience.’

Mark Jago has a military and technology background and volunteers as a Digital Champion in Gillingham. He runs a session each Saturday morning in the local library.

‘I got involved because I saw the frustration on social media, people not able to get things to work with their computers. I saw there was a need to help people with IT issues.

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

NEWS ‘People generally know more than they think – it’s often just a confidence issue.

‘There are all sorts of things we can help people do. For example, we’re helping a couple of Ukrainian refugees at the moment – they just need some support to use the internet.

We’ve also helped people with Excel spreadsheets, and we have saved people money by showing them how to look online for better deals one energy bills. We saved one person around £600.

‘And then the other day we helped someone complete an Australian visa online so they could go and see their son.’

Changing lives There are 45 Digital Champions spread across Dorset in 39 locations. All the libraries have support, and two GP Surgeries, in Poundbury and Weymouth, have a Digital Champion.

Lyndsey says: ‘We work very closely with the NHS and we can help people use the NHS app, for example. But that isn’t very exciting! If we want to engage people in using the internet we have to find something that interests them. One of our champions had a reluctant gentleman come to see them – he just didn’t seem interested.

But then he mentioned that his son was in a rock band in the

Digital champion Mark Jago in his Gillingham library session

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The Sturminster Newton sessions are held at The Exchange

80s, so they started looking him up. Sure enough, they found lots of mentions of his son – and that got him interested!’

The team has helped many people over the last decade.

Lyndsey remembers one case in particular that still gives her goosebumps today.

‘It was in 2020 when we were distributing IT equipment. It was near Christmas, and one of the social workers came to me because she had just met a deaf man – she could sign, and she realised that she was the first person he had communicated with since the start of the first lockdown.

We gave him a smartphone and at the time I wondered why we were giving a deaf person a smartphone – but he used it to video call other signers and joined a WhatsApp group with signing friends.

‘It changed his world.’

Being left behind Lyndsey is concerned about how to meet the offline population. ’Things are changing so fast. I

worry these people will be left behind. A lot of things are going exclusively on line and people are missing out.’

Mark also recognises that even people who are online don’t always realise the extent of things they can do.

‘We were at a meant’ health event recently and, although people said they used the internet, we were able to say: “But do you know this?” It really helps if you can enable them to look more widely at what is available to them.’

The team has just won a Connection Britain award for its work on spreading and embedding digital knowledge.

They trained other teams, including librarians and social housing staff who can also help people with online tasks so that they become more confident.‘A simple five-minute interaction can make a significant difference,’ says Lyndsey.

• Find out where your nearest session is, and more about Dorset’s Digital Champions here.

The BV magazine, November ‘23

by Fanny Charles

NEWS

Despite funding hurdles, emotional backing grows for Octagon Theatre expansion Hundreds of people from Yeovil and the surrounding area showed their backing for the Octagon Theatre at a meeting at Westlands entertainment centre on 10th October. The Yeovil Town Council was called to discuss a possible partnership with Somerset Council to ensure the future of the project to refurbish the Octagon Theatre and enable it to host bigger touring shows, bigger audiences and to support more small scale local productions and companies.

The Arts Council has promised £10 million towards the ‘cultural hub’ scheme but Somerset Council has put the £30 million project on hold because of the impact of rising interest rates.

After strong statements from council leader Graham Oakes and the majority of councillors, with a small minority calling for the theatre to ‘just reopen’, the town council voted by 12 to two in support of Cllr Oakes’ motion to work with Somerset Council to get the project back on track.

There were emotional speeches from the floor. Yeovil-born Liz Pike is one of the founders of the successful Yeovil Literary Festival. She recalled that the original Johnson Hall had been opened in 1974 – when inflation was running at 23 per cent and mortgage interest was 14 per cent.

The hall was expanded into the Octagon and has been even more important since the closure of the arts centre in 2002.

Time to be ambitious Founder and artistic director of Project Dance, 19-year old professional dancer James Bamford said the plans were necessary to attract bigger companies and productions, and the project would be ‘an investment in education, culture and the local economy. It is time to be more ambitious,’ he said, to great applause.

The planned work includes expanding the main auditorium from 622 to 900 seats, backstage improvements and the construction of a fly tower for bigger sets.

The aim is to transform the Octagon into a flagship cultural hub – Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra has already announced its plans to make the reopened theatre its home in Somerset.

Somerset councillors have asked for alternative, affordable, plans to be drawn up – even if construction costs stayed the same, the rise in interest rates would increase the costs. It was anticipated that the council would borrow £16.3m at 1.5 per cent; the rise in interest means costs grow from £245,000 to more than £1m a year.

Graham Oakes proposed: ‘This council seeks the opportunity to work in partnership with Somerset Council to ensure the future of the Octagon Theatre project.

The council wishes to financially support the plans and ensure that it progresses in accordance with the support of the people of Somerset.’

A flagship venue Bill Revans, leader of Somerset Council, told the estimated 400 people present that the unitary authority wishes to work in partnership with Yeovil council

and other bodies to keep the project alive as a ‘flagship venue for Yeovil and Somerset.’

Independent town councillor Tareth Casey, who is opposed to the Yeovil Refresh town centre regeneration scheme and the Octagon refurbishment, claimed the budget was under-estimated.

But he raised an important question about why two of the three original prospective developers had withdrawn from the tendering process.

Adam Burgan, Somerset’s entertainment manager who has been at the Octagon for 15 years, explained the particular need for improved facilities. Somerset Council wanted to explore the opportunities, he said. ‘Please have a bit of patience.’

Graham Oakes said the Octagon had become regionally important, thanks to Adam Burgan’s leadership. Many audience members ‘came over the border from Dorset – perhaps Dorset Council should be asked to contribute,’ he suggested. A refurbished and enlarged theatre would attract a wider range of acts and companies, putting on shows which currently require a trip to Bristol or Southampton.

‘If you can put on the big shows, you can afford to put on the local shows - you need one to keep the other going.’

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

NEWS

Open Q&A with Chris Loder MP Last month in the BV the West Dorset MP offered to answer an open postbag – and here he has answered all the letters that were sent

Q

1. What is being done to highlight the need for more NHS dentists – in West Dorset in particular? I, and many like me, am now faced with finding money which I haven’t got to go private. We’re building more houses. Where are these people going to go? We are just being forced into the private sector.

Kevin Morse, Buckland Newton I am working hard to reform NHS dental services in West Dorset. This year, I led a Westminster Hall debate calling for the Health Minister to address the issue of poor access to routine and emergency dental treatment (see it here). I also hold quarterly meetings with our local NHS. I spoke in Parliament again to ask the Minister responsible for NHS dentistry when there would be action to resolve the situation. I am keeping up constant pressure to find a solution.

In addition, I have talked with local dentists and dental staff, and I am running a survey which I ask you to complete, in order to capture constituents’ personal experiences.

A

Q

2. How important do you see the climate crisis? And what have you done already to try to get the Tories to address it?

Sarah Ryan, Milborne St Andrew Climate change is very real, and we are starting to see this with recent weather extremes.

We have had the fastest reduction in greenhouse gas emissions in the G7, and over-delivered on our targets over the last decade, including bringing in the Environment Act. But we shouldn’t lose sight of the responsibility of other countries – China produces more than 30 per cent of all CO2 emissions, for example; the UK’s contribution is less than one per cent.

A

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Q A

Can a woman have a penis?

Karen Jump, Sherborne No, a biological woman cannot. It is madness to suggest otherwise. But I presume the question is raising the issues surrounding gender self-identification which I am worried about, especially with young children. The LibDem’s “Menstruation is not just a women’s issue” undermines the biological reality of women, and protections afforded to them. It will be an important discussion point at the next General Election.

Q

4. What is the point of investing money and time into a well-thought-out, locallyagreed Neighbourhood Plan if it is going to be entirely ignored by planning officials?

And what is the point of local planning if decisions are ultimately influenced by the fact that the council simply can’t afford the sheer cost of the appeal the wealthy developers will inevitably lodge against any refusal, resulting in a de facto approval – how is this in any way a working, effective and controlled planning system?

Karen James, Dorchester

A

The principle of a Neighbourhood Plan is to give communities direct power to develop a vision and shape the development and growth of their local area.

It is difficult to give a helpful view without understanding the exact example, but Karen is welcome to contact me direct to discuss

Q

5. How can we stop our Dorset village communities being killed by the slow ‘death by a thousand-second homes’?

Annie Maples, Sherborne In late October, the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill came into law. Among many other measures, the Act enables local councils to exercise the power of increasing council tax on empty homes – in some cases by up to 200 per cent. Another solution involves stricter controls of short-term let companies such as Airbnb. I think very large housing developments absorb the life out of our smaller villages – I would like to see smaller developments across the area, and I am a strong supporter of Community Land Trusts (you can find out more about my work on housing and development here).

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

Q

6. How, after so many years in government, can the Tories account for the fact that approximately 3.8 million people experienced destitution in 2022 – more than double that in 2017, and nearly triple the number of children? Specifically, what is being done regarding underestimated rural poverty?

Mary Coles, Dorchester Of the figure quoted by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, almost three-quarters are in receipt of social security payments.

The government has provided unprecedented financial support to help people during the costof-living crisis, and has just announced that benefit claimants are eligible for an extra £900 payment.

In terms of rural hardship, I have been pushing for greater recognition from the government when it comes to calculating grants for rural areas, including a lowering of the council tax. I have made numerous interventions in Westminster about the imbalance of rural hardship compared with urban poverty (you can see them here and here).

A

Q

7. He never answers my emails so why should he answer any questions from me on this?

David Edwards, Facebook This is an untrue statement from David Edwards in Bridport – he has received numerous responses from me and his frequent social media statements like this are disingenuous.

A

Q

8. What is his position on the World Health Organisation’s proposed amendments to the International Health Regulations which will remove national and personal control over medical decisions?

Phillip Jeans, Facebook The International Health Regulations (2005) are a key part of the global health security system. The original International Sanitary Regulations, which preceded the International Health

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NEWS Regulations – were adopted in 1969 and amended several times.

The third edition (2005) has been amended twice – in 2014 and 2022. The revisions illustrate their fluid nature, adapting to the health challenges that the world faces at any given time. I am unable to comment on the specifics of the latest amendments until they are officially confirmed by the WHO.

Q

9. Will Mr Loder make a public acknowledgement preferably by way of an apology - for his fawning endorsement of Liz Truss?

Julian Andrews, Facebook I have already publicly acknowledged my position on the former Prime Minister. It is not a secret that I supported Liz Truss to be Boris Johnson’s successor, and it was my view that Liz Truss’ intention – to avoid a recession – was right. Our local economy suffered greatly over Covid and has not yet fully recovered – we lost 18 per cent of our businesses.

But the pace of her policies was too fast. It caused ‘indigestion’ in the markets and became clear that the level of political turbulence was not sustainable and the drive to grow had to be balanced by stability – both political and economic.

This prompted Liz Truss’ resignation and the subsequent leadership election.

A

Q

10. What is Mr Loder’s opinion of Mr Sunak’s U-turn on our Net Zero goals?

How can it be defended that the government sets up an independent body to advise it on such things, and then defies the recommendations of that Climate Change Committee, simply ignoring the view of the official body it instigated?

Trina Lacey, Sherborne There has been no U-turn on the aim of achieving Net Zero by 2050.

But there has been a change to a more realistic route, in order to get there without pushing people who, for example, have oil boilers (as many of my rural constituents do)

into spending significant amounts of money on a new ground or air source heat pump if they need to change their boiler.

The previous approach – which I did not advocate – risked burdening rural families and those with low-incomes with the most cost, with many rural people being pressed into paying thousands for a new heating system. That could not be justified during a cost-of-living crisis. But we have the best of both worlds, in that the government, at the same time, put forward a Boiler Upgrade Scheme to finance 50 per cent of the cost of a new air/ground source heat pump if you are in the financial position to do so.

The Climate Change Committee is actually an advisory, nondepartmental public body.

On this topic, I have a survey active on my website which invites constituents to share their views with me on the topic of rural energy, which you can complete here: chrisloder.co.uk/ruralenergy

Q

11. What boards of which companies has Mr Loder got lined up for joining after the next election?

Nicholas Greenhough, Facebook ... None.

A Q

12. Why doesn’t Mr Loder upload onto his website a list of all the places around his constituency where he will be holding a surgery? Why doesn’t he hold open debates at places he holds a surgery?

Annie Webster, Facebook I hold weekly surgeries around the constituency, and they are attended by appointment.

They are not publicly advertised, regrettably, because of security risks. But Ms Webster is a regular correspondent, so I am comfortable she has plenty of communication with her MP.

A

• Constituents are more than welcome to contact me at: hello@chrisloder.co.uk

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THE RANDOM 19 QUESTIONS

Interview by Laura Hitchcock

Cook, farmer and gardener Julius Roberts answers the Random 19 From city chef to Dorset farmer – meet the Instagram sensation who’s working to reconnect a modern audience with their food Julius Roberts is the newest farm-to-table chef on the block, having shot to social media fame as he documented a new life in the country. He studied sculpture in Brighton, and, as so many artists before him, he moved to London where he found it tough to make a living.

His grandmother had inspired his early fascination for food – she kept a detailed record of recipes, garden produce, hedgerow foraging and game from the local woods and fields. Knowing his love of food, Julius’ mother encouraged him to find work at a local café, which led him to a job as a chef at the then-new Noble Rot. ‘It was the biggest leap I’d ever made in my life,’ he told Tatler in 2022. ‘With no formal training, I went from washing dishes in a basic French bistro to cheffing in a busy restaurant. But I learnt so much, more than I ever could going to a cooking school.’

Julius looks back with positivity on the experience, but openly acknowledges that he didn’t enjoy the sheer pace of the frenetic restaurant kitchen, struggling to maintain a normal life through the long, lonely exhausting weeks. He left the restaurant in 2016 ‘pale and stressed to my core’, he told the Telegraph recently. ‘As fun as that job is, it is incredibly gruelling.’

Back to the land Even on a grim day, Julius’ tired brain couldn’t help but envy the people arriving at the kitchen door with their produce – the growers and suppliers looking healthy, relaxed and cheerful as they headed back to their outdoor life.

After he left Noble Rot, a chance conversation at a family-owned restaurant in Florence about the importance of the provenance of food, of farming and of the quality and welfare in our food chain led Julius to realise his need to connect with the land. He spent a year on a tiny budget, walking with his dog, foraging and enjoying the sheer freedom of a life lived on his own terms.

His first step to becoming a farmer was the spontaneous purchase of four pigs. ‘It was the middle of winter and I couldn’t grow veg,’ he says.

‘Chickens felt too easy … so I bought some pigs.’

His friends pushed him to record the London-boy20

Julius Roberts, at home in West Dorset

turned-man-of-the-land life on Instagram, and he swiftly began to build a following as his rare breed mangalitza piglets (Snap, Crackle, Pop and Albie) featured alongside his vegetable growing – and were soon followed by 17 goats, ‘sold to me by this wheeler-dealer farmer’, he says. ‘I had no

The BV magazine, November ‘23

RANDOM 19

All images: Elena Heatherwick

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RANDOM 19

idea what I was doing. I made a lot of mistakes.

It’s like being a parent to 30 animals – it’s cold and snowing and you’re in charge of a baby that’s just been born.’

When Julius’ parents relocated from Suffolk to a Dorset farmhouse with 50 acres in 2022, he and his animals came too. He now has about 80 sheep as well as the flock of goats, a large vegetable patch – and more than half a million Instagram followers (with another 400,000 on TikTok). Last year he starred in his first TV series on Channel 5 ‘A Taste of the Country’, and his first cookbook The Farm Table has just been released by Ebury Press.

His recipes are simple, hearty dishes – the type he knows are popular with his followers. ‘Ultimately I’m just a home cook,’ he says. ‘I’m sure people look at me cooking in my greenhouse on a sunny day and think I have a charmed existence. But I’m no different from any farmer – the winter is dark and gloomy, the days are long, the weather’s out of my control and it can all take its toll.’

When he’s not recording videos or midwifing goats, Julius is busy transforming his agricultural land into a biodiverse habitat. He’s re-establishing the ancient system of meadows and hedgerows he can see in satellite images taken of the land before

they were all scrubbed out to create the giant fields of modern agriculture.

Sometimes attacked online by those who believe he cannot love his animals if he eats them, Julius responds vigorously.

‘You have to love them more. It’s all about the way you choose to eat meat – little and rarely, for me.

It’s a luxury. I don’t want a 1kg of chicken breasts for £4. I want one whole chicken which will feed my family for three days, if I use all of it properly.’

And so to the 19 random questions...

1. What’s your relationship with Dorset?

I am lucky enough to call Dorset home.

2. The last film you watched?

Living, with Bill Nighy. It’s a beautifully shot, oldschool feeling film about a man coming to terms with a terminal illness, and working out how to spend his last days. It is so poignant, so moving – utterly brilliant. It brought me to tears.

3. What would you like to tell 15 year-old you?

Just enjoy it.

4. Tell us about a sound or a smell that makes you happy?

I love the sound of rain gently pattering against the first leaves of spring – when you’re standing in the woods, underneath the canopy, with the birds twinkling away and lambs baaing in the fields nearby.

5. What was the last song you sang out loud in the car?

Welcome To The Machine by Pink Floyd. At FULL volume. What a tune!

6. What book did you read last year that stayed with you? What made you love it?

The Night Always Comes by Willy Vlautin. It’s the most incredible novel, I’ve read it twice again since. Set in real time, so the pace is gripping, it’s a powerful story of a woman battling to survive a hard life. Her grit and determination are incredible. It blew me away – and I went and read four more of his novels immediately.

7. The best biscuit for dunking?

Bahlsen’s Pick Up!s – the dark chocolate ones, in a strong coffee.

Julius with his lurcher, Loki

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8. Your favourite quote?

‘Watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you, because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. Those who

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RANDOM 19

don’t believe in magic will never find it.’ It’s a Roald Dahl quote. Mum put it in our bathroom, so it’s one I read every single day. It reminds me to stop and notice the little things, those tiny sparks in life that deserve to be treasured.

9. It’s Friday night – you have the house to yourself, and no work is allowed. What are you going to do?

I’d run a very hot, deep bath and lie in it for hours with a podcast or audiobook on. Then I’d go and curl up by the fire with a great film, my dogs, a cold beer and something delicious.

clusters of people playing and singing together ... we wandered from group to group listening to the music, drinking sweet mint tea and eating barbecued lamb at various stalls. It was so epic.

‘Chip shop chips, doused in salt and vinegar, with some really good mayo on the beach’

10. Top three most visited websites?

Rotten Tomatoes. Car and Classic (I love looking at old cars and motorbikes). And Etsy – I’m always scouring for old plates and bowls!

11. Chip Shop Chips or Home Baked Cake?

Chip shop chips, doused in salt and vinegar with really good mayo on the beach with my fishing rod in the wind.

12. Cats or dogs?

DOGS ALL THE WAY! 13. What would you most like to be remembered for?

I’d love to have written an incredible song, movie or book ... But in my own sphere of work, I’d love to have done something good for the planet. I’m passionate about the welfare of farm animals and if I could help their lives improve, I’d be very happy indeed. I’m a big believer that meat should be more of a luxury, and that we should be moving towards a system of quality not quantity – eat less meat and buy better quality when we do.

That would improve their lives but also our own health, increase the land’s biodiversity and put more money into farmers’ pockets.

16. What is your comfort meal?

Chicken pie! I like it with plenty of smoked bacon, tarragon, mustard and tons of flaky, buttery pastry.

17. What shop can you not pass by?

My favourite local shops are Rise in Bridport, Felicity’s in Morcombelake and Millers Farm Shop near Axminster.

18. What’s your most annoying trait?

I’m very messy and chaotic.

19. You have the power to pass one law, uncontested. What will you do with it?

Nothing upsets me more than seeing a McDonalds bag or Coke bottle chucked out of someone’s car on the road. It is so disrespectful and it’s a sign of our society’s attitude towards the planet. I would pass a law that meant if you get caught doing that, the fine is so brutal no one would do it ever again.

There’s a great law in fishing – if you fish illegally, all your gear gets taken away on the spot and you get landed with a massive fine. It’s such a great deterrent – and I want the same with littering.

14. What was the last gift you either gave someone, or received?

I have just turned 31 and my parents came back from cycling across Turkey – they brought me a beautiful kilim rug that I absolutely love.

15. Tell us about one of the best evenings you’ve had?

I had a night in Moroco where we went into the central medina of Marrakech – one of the most vibrant, buzzy, chaotic and immersive cultures on the planet. The smoke of barbecues rising into the purple night sky, the smells of delicious cooking, 23

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NEWS

Dennis Chinaworks celebrates 30 years of art pottery

An artist’s life from fashion to ceramics – for more than 60 years, Sally Tuffin has been at the forefront of British design. By Fanny Charles If you took a magical mystery tour that began in Swinging Sixties London, went to the potteries in Stoke-on-Trent and to a specialist pottery shop

Sally Tuffin

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in Stratford-upon-Avon, you would not expect to end up in Somerset’s hidden village of Shepton Beauchamp. The journey that began in the vibrantly exciting fashion scene of Biba, Mary Quant, Barbara Hulanicki, Ossie Clark and Foale and Tuffin was serendipitous – and serendipity has always played a big part in Sally Tuffin’s life. It still does.

Now in her mid-80s, she continues to design for Dennis Chinaworks, the art pottery she and her husband Richard founded in 1993 – this year they are celebrating the 30th anniversary of the business which they run with their artist son Buchan at their home, Shepton House, in the tiny village near Ilminster. They bought the characterful Victorian manor more than 40 years ago, and now the house and its outbuildings house their various interests, including a glassworks and Richard’s publishing business.

With their skilled team of potters and decorators, Richard and Sally create beautiful and unique vases, pots, bowls and teapots, with inspirations that range from tigers to penguins, from Greek myths to Elizabethan textiles, from traditional Japanese geishas to the Austrian artist Gustav Klimt, who was a leading light in the Vienna Secession movement.

Sally, who is not only still working but also learning Italian ‘just for the joy of it’, trained initially at Walthamstow Art School, where she met Marion Foale. They went on to the Royal College of Art, where their fellow students included David Hockney, Peter Blake, and Paula Boty, the outstanding female Pop Artist who died tragically

The BV magazine, November ‘23

NEWS Buchan Dennis’s Red Stripe Petaloid vase All images: Courtenay HItchcock

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NEWS Dennis Chinaworks operates from the old stable block of Shepton House – this is one of the loft studios

young, aged 28. Sally and Marion recognised they were ‘like minds’ and decided they would work for themselves rather than for a company.

‘We never thought about money,’ Sally recalls.

After graduating from the RCA Fashion School, Sally and Marion started their design business, with a £200 loan and a sewing machine, in a rented bedsit. Their style was dressing down not dressing up, looking as if you hadn’t tried too hard – a style that is still effortlessly cool.

They were trail-blazers at the start of an era that would see Britain become the youth fashion capital of the world, leaving the staid and male-dominated

hot-house of haute couture in their wake.

Shoe designer Manolo Blahnik says the pair ‘represented the revolution that was happening in London in the 60s.’

Foale and Tuffin rapidly became one of the leading design houses of the 1960s. In Iain Webb’s book profiling the two designers, he describes them as ‘two cocky, feisty, bolshy, arty, clever-clogs young women who at the beginning of the 1960s just happened to collide with fashion at the split second that they were needed.’ You certainly wouldn’t describe Sally in quite those terms now, but she is undoubtedly still feisty and very, very artistic.

Sally still has the very first Sindy doll, along with her original designs for the outfit in the box.

Cloth for clay It wasn’t only clothes that got the Foale and Tuffin treatment – they were also commissioned to design the Sindy doll, England’s answer to America’s pink and perfect plastic Barbie. Sindy was, says Webb, ‘the doll with the hippest clothes’ but she was also ‘the girl next door,’ according to Marion, who knew that Barbie was too sexual for English girls.

After leaving London in 1972 and having a family, Marion went on to run a successful knitwear business for many years, but has very recently retired – after all, both women are in their mid-80s.

They met most recently at the memorial service for Mary Quant, held in the Chapel Royal at Hampton Court Palace.

For three years after Marion left, Sally continued to run the fashion company, but, she says, ‘it was lonely without Marion.’ By now she was married to Richard, who at the time was an antiques dealer

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

in Kensington, and they moved to Shepton House.

In the mid-1980s, Richard got involved with the famous but ailing historic Moorcroft Pottery. They bought a share in the business and Sally became art director, ‘substituting cloth for clay.’ She showed the team how to use the pattern-cutting approach to design that she learned at art school, and also encouraged the designers to sign their own work.

Moorcroft once again became a success, and in 1992 Sally went on to work briefly at Poole Pottery, where her designs included a commission for a British Airways tailfin – Blue Poole was a beautiful collage of dolphins and seagulls.

In 1993 Sally and Richard set up their art pottery business at Shepton House. She says she is ‘not a natural potter’ and she was worried about the challenge of running a pottery.

Support came from the ceramics specialist Barry Thornton, who sells Moorcroft and other famous names at his Stratford-upon-Avon business. ‘He told me, “Sally, if you make them, I will buy the lot.”

So I started making!’

She may not be a natural potter, but her designs and creativity have been central to the lasting success of Dennis Chinaworks, even in times of austerity and uncertainty. The business has ‘grown

NEWS like Topsy,’ she says. ‘There was nothing planned – there never was anything planned in our lives. It has just been serendipity.’

As well as their permanent small team, Dennis Chinaworks has a long record of training potters and designers. Sally says: ‘We have trained about 20 people. Most of them have later gone off to do it themselves. I feel we have put back something of what I got from an amazing free education.’

She and Richard are also proud that their business has its succession in place with Buchan, who studied painting at art school. He is grateful to be able to work in the family business: ‘I feel lucky to be in the arts and making a living. We weren’t taught anything about business at art school.’

Unique commissions Dennis Chinaworks has a huge archive of designs showing many influences, and is constantly producing new work, sometimes to commission.

Most of the designs come from Sally’s endlessly inventive imagination, with her vast artistic knowledge and particular love of late 19th and early 20th century Art Nouveau. Buchan is responsible for some of the more contemporary pieces with their vivid colour palette – look out Buchan Dennis in the saddlery – his personal studio space

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NEWS for his distinctive horizontal rainbow stripes in particular. Occasionally, there have been pots, vases or plates by other artists – the quirky cartoonist Glen Baxter designed a series of six plates, featuring some of his best loved illustrations (‘Uncle Frank would keep us amused for hours’ with his saw and his sawn-off leg) and some Delft-blue style plates featuring exotica such as tennis played from the backs of an elephant and a tiger!

The very small and highly skilled making team includes the decorators Vanessa Thompson and Theresa Blackmore and potter Rory Mcleod. The pots are thrown and turned on the wheel. Colour is spun on the leather-hard earthenware and decorated by incising and slip-trailing the designs.

Further colour is added using underglazes and natural oxides, then the pots are finished with a clear glaze. From beginning to end each pot is the work of a single decorator, and their signature joins the number, company name, date and thrower’s mark on the base.

Hero, Titan and a teapot The vases, bowls, boxes and dishes are bought by collectors and lovers of decorative pottery not only across the UK but around the world. The company has made commissioned work for galleries, museums and organisations and for individuals, as well as special sales or events, such as the British Art Pottery and Design sale at Woolley & Wallis’s Salisbury showroom on Wednesday 29th November. For this important auction, Dennis Chinaworks has made three unique pieces, a tall square Art Nouveau style vase called Hero, a gloriously colourful Klimt-inspired Japanese teapot (below, right), and Titan, a lidded bowl with Buchan’s distinctive fine horizontal stripes.

Other commissions have included work for the Andrew Lloyd Webber Collection (Royal Academy of Arts), the Pugin exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum, the Durer exhibition at the British

Inside the Dennis Chinaworks kiln, waiting for firing. Image: Buchan Dennis

Museum, the Cult of Beauty exhibition, also at the V&A, and the Duncan Grant exhibition at the Courtauld Gallery.

Richard Dennis trained with the auctioneers Sotheby’s before establishing an antique glass and ceramics business, together with a publishing house producing specialist books for collectors.

His business acumen has obviously been a key part of the success of the company, and he continues to run Richard Dennis Publications, publishing a wide range of art books, with a particular focus on Klimt Japanese teapot, designed by Sally Tuffin, thrown by Rory McLeod and painted by Theresa Blackmore

Dennis Chinaworks blanks are all hand thrown on a wheel at the Somerset pottery

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NEWS

Sally Tuffin with her son Buchan Dennis in front of the 17th century fireplace at Shepton House

historic and contemporary ceramics and pottery, including Moorcroft, Royal Doulton, Crown Derby, William de Morgan, Wedgewood, Midwinter and the Martin brothers, but also including jigsaws, cartoons, design, glass and furniture.

Richard also published ‘Foale and Tuffin – The Sixties, A Decade in Fashion’, Iain R Webb’s portrait of his wife and her design partner, with contributions from leading figures of the period, including Jean Shrimpton, Terence Conran, Barbara Hulanicki and Manolo Blahnik and images from

the top photographers of the day, including David Bailey and Helmut Newton.

And finally ... a bit of priceless advice from a fashion icon. If you worry about the cost of a clothing item you want to buy, Sally recalls the Foale and Tuffin motto: ‘Divide the price of the garment by the number of times you wear it.’

This year the Dennis Chinaworks Open Day will be two days: Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd December, from 11am to 4pm.

Artist Vanessa Thompson works in the shop area of the pottery

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The BV magazine, November ‘23 Interview by Laura Hitchcock

DORSET ISLAND DISCS

Head of Dorset Council Spencer Flower selects his Dorset Island Discs Cllr Spencer Flower shares his journey from a Gillingham council estate to the leadership of Dorset Council as he chooses the discs he can’t live without Born in Gillingham in his Spencer Flower grandmother’s house to a divorced single mum, Spencer Flower was raised by his mum until he was five. ‘I have a distant memory that we lived in Yeovil for a period of time,’ he says. ‘I remember sitting watching the workmen coming out of Westlands Helicopters, waving at them as they were finishing work! Then mum remarried and we came back to Gillingham, where we lived in a council house until I was nine.’

Spencer Flower, the first leader of the new Dorset unitary council, has been shortlisted for Leader of the Year in the Cllr Awards run by the Local Government Information Unit.

He says: ‘It’s an unexpected and huge honour to be shortlisted.’

When Spencer was nine, he moved from Gillingham to the coast. ‘Dad was a local postman, and he got a promotion, which meant we moved to Weymouth. as a skilled worker on the shop They bought a three-story floor, swiftly transitioning house which they turned into to a junior draftsman role, a guesthouse. Growing up despite the initial pay cut.

I always knew what was for Over the years, I dinner; the menu progressed through was on a two week ‘I don’t various positions, cycle because you believe in ultimately becoming couldn’t have the tribal politics, the contracts same meal twice during a fortnight’s I don’t believe and commercial manager. When holiday! in rigidly I expressed my ‘I completed following an desire for general an engineering ideology’ management, I was apprenticeship, encouraged to work living with my in quality assurance, parents until I was 21, when where I excelled at managing I realised I needed to leave a team of 50. I then set up a town for better opportunities. new operation for the company, ‘I moved to London and started

increasing my staff from 12 to 370 in five years. Eventually, I was headhunted and by chance the new role meant a return to Dorset. Village life led me to engaging in local politics, and I joined the parish council and then ran for district council on a last-minute decision in 1995, narrowly losing. I thought, “next time around, I’m really going to do it.” Four years later, I knocked on every door, delivered leaflets and leaflets – and ultimately won with a substantial majority.

‘I stayed as the district councillor, moving to Verwood in 2006, where I was councillor 31

The BV magazine, November ‘23

DORSET ISLAND DISCS

for 14 years until the district council was disbanded in 2019 to form the unitary. I was fortunate enough to win a seat on the new Dorset Council and was also leader of the Conservative group – so de facto I became the leader of the council. I’ve got local government in my blood now!

No apologist ‘The thing that motivates me is that I like to help people. I’m an outcome-driven person.

Someone once told me I was a workaholic, but I’m not, I’m an achiever-holic. I like my results!

My business experience has been incredibly useful – managing people, understanding balance sheets and how you can structure things – and I’ve learned from colleagues whom I respect and listen to.

‘When I became leader in May 2019, it was probably one of the shortest acceptance speeches on record – I simply said: “I’ll be an advocate for Dorset, not an apologist for government. I’ll work across this chamber, because we’re all elected to do the best we can for the people in our individual wards, and collectively as a council. That’s my ethos and I won’t budge from it.”

‘And I haven’t. I know that I’ve come in for the occasional bit of

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criticism, but I don’t believe in the pound of our income comes tribal politics, I don’t believe in from our local taxpayers. The rigidly following an ideology. I’m national average is 67p! very much in favour of working as a team to get the best outNormal service will resume comes. And it works. I’ve only ‘We get a very, very small got a majority of four and yet amount of revenue support if our budgets were approved you compare us with some of with a majority 49. That meant the boroughs in London – they across the chamber, the vast get 20 or 30 million a year with majority supported the budget. much lower council tax.

It was a common ‘So I’ve been lobbying sense budget, ‘I don’t think really hard. I so why wouldn’t remember early on it’s my job to in my tenure being they?’ accept second told: “Nobody in Spencer is known for noisily and Westminster really best for the repeatedly tackling knows about Dorset” people of government ‘And I thought, “well, Dorset’ ministers on the I’m going to change issues where he that!” – they know feels Dorset is getting a rough about Dorset now, I can assure deal on the national stage. you!

‘We do rely very heavily on our ‘And I’ve told the cabinet, there local taxpayer for more than we will be no service cuts. Don’t should. In Dorset, 84 pence in come to me until you’ve looked at every avenue to reduce our costs. I’m proud of that – cutting services is an easy route, and I don’t want an easy route, I want the long-lasting route of delivering services at an affordable cost. I recognise that we put a huge burden on the people of Dorset – I’m trying to gradually reduce that burden.

‘The issue in Dorset is that our demographics are way out of line with the rest of the country. Our number of over65s is hitting 30 per cent of our population, and we’ve got the

The BV magazine, November ‘23

highest number of over-84-yearolds in the country.

‘Of course, people want to come and live in Dorset, and we welcome that. But there’s no recognition from government – the burden of the additional adult social care costs is on us, on the local taxpayers. And it’s huge. It’s £142 million out of our £348 million total budget, and we don’t get any support from government to fund that.

‘But by reducing to one unitary council, I predicted we’d save 70 million quid over the first five years – we’re actually looking as though we’re going to save about £110m, and that’s all been rolled back into service delivery, which is the key reason we haven’t had to cut services.

We’ve managed to self-fund by our own efforts.

‘That’s buying time but it doesn’t stop me saying to government, “You’re not funding the shires!”

It’s not just Dorset. All the shires are under-funded.

‘There’s a formula that’s used nationally for determining how the government distributes “the pot” and one thing they don’t factor in is the age of the demographic. The other one is the sheer cost of delivering services in rural areas.

‘I think there’s a growing recognition in government now – they will come up with a fairer funding formula at some

point. But that doesn’t help me now! I have regular meetings with our MPs, they know that I’m on the warpath. I am always very polite. Assertive, but very polite. And I won’t take no for an answer. I don’t think it’s my job to accept second best for the people of Dorset.

A life in music And so to Spencer’s eight music choices, in no particular order, along with how and why they have stuck in his life: Truly Lionel Richie I’m sort of cheating here, and I’m going to bundle three together; Have I told you lately that I love you?

Rod Stewart and Everglow Coldplay These three songs together are for my late daughter. We lost Tracy seven years ago – she had undiagnosed stomach cancer. I lost her at the age of 48. Which is no age.

I still think about her every day.

It’s my way of coping with my loss. Talking about it helps me ... bottling it up doesn’t.

Tracy and I had a really really good dad-daughter relationship.

I mean, the phone would go and I’d answer with “OK, what’s up?

Do you want advice or money?”

It was usually one or the other!

DORSET ISLAND DISCS But we always had a close relationship, all the way through.

These three aren’t songs that we shared particular memories of – after she died, my wife and I looked through her music, to see what she played, what she loved.

We had to pick some songs for the funeral, and we picked these three. I’ve just ... I’ve just always kept those in my mind.

It’s that little link to when she was alive, you know?

So that’s why I picked those.

We Are The Champions Queen I’ve told my wife, I want this played at my funeral!

Because it’s me. I’m a winner.

I’m out to win. I’m not ruthless, but I do always try and win.

I want to put effort into something and be walking away saying: “Done that. Achieved.

Let’s move on to the next thing.”

And We Are The Champions epitomises that mindset.

I played football until I was 40, and at a company football match someone commented “I notice your tackling was an uncompromising as your management style!” I’m not quite sure that was true. But I do take the point. I don’t suffer fools, but I do it by persuasion, not by confrontation, I simply try to persuade people to see a different way of getting something done.

It’s Now or Never Elvis Presley I’m an Elvis fan – I always have been. I’m not quite sure why I picked this one particularly – probably my personality coming out here again, isn’t it?

It’s now or never – me, the achiever-holic, I’m going to make this happen. So it’s sort of a bit of that, I guess, which attracted me to this particular song.

I do a bit of karaoke, occasionally, and I do Elvis, as well as Sinatra and Tom Jones!

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

My Way Frank Sinatra You can see where I’m coming from now ... My wife persuaded me that I had to put My Way in!

The thing is, I’m always willing to listen to other people’s views and move position if it’s for a better outcome. I’m a great fan of ‘triangulating’ – I test ideas on two or three people, because I think you then come out with a better decision.

I’ve always told my managers that we are never too big to ask the right question. If you’re not sure, there’s no disgrace in asking the question, because if you end up with a better decision, no one’s going to remember you asked the question, they’ll remember you found the solution.

It’s a bit of a convoluted answer, but that’s why I chose it!

It’s Not Unusual Tom Jones It was a tough choice between Delilah and this. I just love them both - no big reason or story here. We did go and see Tom Jones last year – he’s getting a bit creaky now, but he’s still got a voice. And I do respect Tom, because he has a great voice, and a good range of songs. So I just like Tom Jones – and this one because it’s a good one!

Hotel California The Eagles We’ve seen the Eagles in concert four times. All over the country – my wife and I think they’re absolutely amazing. We saw them before Glenn Frey died, so the original line up, and then since with his son on the stage.

And I think we’ve seen a couple of tribute acts too! They are a feelgood group, sort of country with a twist. The last time we saw them was at Wembley Stadium. Wow, it was packed – and my wife nabbed us (with my credit card, mind) seats that were six rows back from the

DORSET ISLAND DISCS

stage. It was fabulous. Six rows back from the stage! Sheryl Crow was the warm up act, and then the drummer came on and said ‘Evening everybody! We’re going to play for two and a half hours.

Because we can!’

And they did, too! It was absolutely brilliant.

My eldest stepson says he could always tell he’s walking into our house, because you can hear the Eagles being played in the kitchen. We just say ‘Alexa, Eagles!’ So this one’s the best reason really – I picked it because it’s my favourite group!

The book - Success Through a Positive Mental Attitude by Napoleon Hill It doesn’t sound like a fun read, does it? It’s interesting – when I took on the role as a Quality Assurance Manager it was a bit of a challenge, a poisoned chalice. I didn’t really mind because it gave me a chance to show whether I could manage a crisis. One of my inspectors came in one day, put this book on my desk and said: “you might find it useful”. And I did.

I read it twice (I never read a book twice). And it has had the most influence on my attitude in life that I could have ever imagined. If you’re negative, you use a lot of energy and you’ve achieved nothing. Everything I do is based on having a positive

outcome. Even in a crisis, I will always look for the positives, then build on them. I just never hold my head in my hands – because that achieves nothing does it? If you spend all your time grumping, looking down a hole, talking about going to hell in a handcart then you might as well not bother. It’s having that ability to think positively about how you’re going to achieve your objectives. So that’s my book.

Luxury item – a chilled glass of dry white wine When I go on holiday in a very warm climate, it’s the only time I ever drink really cold, dry wine.

So if I’m on holiday on my lovely Dorset island, I’m relaxing.

It’s going to presume it’s a warm, dry, sunny stay, so a nice glass of cold dry white wine would go down nicely.

A giant wave is coming and you only have time to grab one disc – which will you save?

Lionel Richie’s Truly, because it leads me to my daughter.

Click to listen to Spencer’s playlist on YouTube

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A COUNTRY LIVING Chris Holbrook (left) and Ed Waldron of Orris Leather All images: Courtenay Hitchcock

The leather lads Tracie Beardsley meets Dorset craftsmen Chris and Ed, internationally recognised as two of the world’s best under-40 leatherworkers It’s a late Friday afternoon when I interview Chris Holbrook and Ed Waldron. Both men have already worked an extremely long week, Ed as a community nurse supporting elderly patients in care homes and Chris helping run his family’s successful shoe repair shop in Dorchester.

Evenings all week have been busy too, designing and handmaking from scratch the beautiful leather products – handbags, bags, belts, wallets, dog leads and collars – in their tiny workroom. All weekend, and virtually every weekend between now and Christmas, these talented craftsmen will sell their luxury leather goods at craft and Christmas markets.

Chris explains: ‘Every year our 36

The BV magazine, November ‘23

NEWS

Ed Waldron using a traditional saddler’s clam to clamp his leather in place -– stitching leather is a two-handed process

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

A COUNTRY LIVING home becomes like Santa’s workshop. We spill out from the workroom into the dining room to keep up with commissions.’

Both men are self-taught, and their business, Orris Leather, was born out of a hobby. Chris, whose stepfather and stepgrandfather are cobblers, went on an introductory shoe-making course. Ed, who is a gifted embroiderer from a family devoted to arts and crafts, also decided to turn his hand to working with leather.

Ed says: ‘It got to the stage where we had made so many wallets for ourselves and friends, it seemed a natural progression to start making belts. Then came dog collars, accessories and bags. We took the leap three years ago and launched our business.’

And though both still have the security of “day jobs”, their business is booming. As well as making their own designs, they take commissions, do repairs and run workshops. Chris says: ‘We’ve just helped someone restore an antique sword case. It was such a privilege to work on it and share our knowledge with the owner.’

Their work has been recognised locally and internationally. They won the Perpetual Challenge Cup at Dorset County Show 2022 for best craft exhibit – a stunning suede-lined handbag. The same year, they were included in the prestigious 40 under 40, a scheme to find the forty best young leatherworkers in the world, organised by one of the UK’s most reputable leather

Chris Holbrook working in Orris Leather’s tiny workroom

producers, Abbey England in Cheshire. So how do the pair share the workload?

‘We make it as fair as possible,’

Orris Leather produce hand crafted belts, wallets, dog collars and bags

38

says Ed. ‘Some of our products are hand-dyed, which Chris is really good at it. I don’t have his patience, so I don’t get as consistent results – it is an art in itself. A slightly different part of leather yields slightly different colours, and Chris manages to get uniform results. I steer clear!’

Chris adds: ‘Ed is much braver than I am. He’ll give new techniques a go then teach me.

We know each other’s strengths, which makes us a good team.’

Are they critical of each other’s work? ‘Not of each other’s, but we’re overly critical of our own,’

The BV magazine, November ‘23

A COUNTRY LIVING admits Ed. ‘We’re dedicated to producing high quality products.

Finish is so important to us. A lot of leatherwork out there is unfinished in terms of the hallmarks of quality. We won’t scrimp on those.

‘We spend time perfecting products rather than sending out anything substandard. Leather is

forgiving – treat it well and it will treat you well in return.’

Steady concentration is key in leatherwork. An average-sized bag has between 800 and 1,500 hand-sewn stitches and takes about three days; more complex bags with lining will take six days to complete. Sewing machines are never used.

An average-sized bag has between 800 and 1,500 hand-sewn stitches and takes about three days; more complex bags with lining will take six days to complete.

Ed says: ‘Stitching is beautifully repetitive and relaxing. I think I could stitch in my sleep. We must have made millions of stitches in the past three years.

‘And calloused fingers are just part of the job!’

• orrisleather.co.uk

Quick fire questions: Books by your bedside?

Ed: I’m a sucker for a 99p Kindle download so I couldn’t tell you what I’m reading as there’s no front cover image!

Chris: I don’t get much time to read but the last book I read was ‘The Secret Life of Trees’ by Colin Tudge.

A-lister dinner party guests? (once the dining table is clear!)

Ed: The Queen. She was such an interesting person, incredibly understated. I’d like to get below her surface. Also the charming Sean Connery and The Repair Shop’s Suzie Fletcher – we’ve been lucky enough to meet her and she’s so chilled.

Chris: Patricia Routledge and Angela Lansbury! I love Murder She Wrote. Also, Joanna Lumley and Jennifer Saunders – I’m a big Ab Fab fan, and they would be an absolute riot.

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The BV magazine, November ‘23 ADVERTORIAL

Lock and roll – the locksmiths who’ve gone keyless For nearly six decades, the familiar sight of Reynolds & Son stood as a steadfast presence on Shaftesbury’s bustling High Street, offering its reliable shoe repair services. The shop’s signage still sits over the entrance, and the interior continues to echo with shoe repairs expertly undertaken. However, Reynolds & Son has evolved over the past decade into 3 County

Locksmiths, another cherished local family business.

The craftsmanship and service remains intact as they continue to provide on-site shoe repair services. Yet, their primary focus, and the facet of their business that has seen remarkable growth, lies in the realm of locksmithing and precision key cutting.

In a progressive move, 3 County Locksmiths recently made a substantial investment in more than £10,000 of state-of-the-art machinery, advanced tooling, and cutting-edge software. This significant upgrade equips them to program remote key fobs, vital with today’s keyless ignition systems. Some raise concerns about the security of these advanced capabilities. Manager Archie McCarthy is quick to assurecustomers, ‘Should someone break in and steal the machine, there’s no record of previously cut keys stored within it. So, there’s no possibility of anyone duplicating keys and helping themselves to your vehicle.’

3 County Locksmiths offers a range of services, including engraving work, and they are well-versed in household locksmithing, including barrel, five-lever sash and dead locks.

Some keys can prove challenging to replace, Archie McCarthy says: ‘There are some, particularly the very old ones. Occasionally, we encounter keys for locks that are so old that obtaining blanks is impossible.

Then we have to look at lock replacement or, in certain instances, attempt to handcraft a custom key to meet the situation.’

With adaptability, craftsmanship and good old fashioned service, 3 County Locksmiths continue in the spirit of Reynolds & Sons, blending tradition with cutting edge modern solutions to be your first port of call for all your locksmithing needs.

• 3countylocksmiths.co.uk

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

COMMUNITY NEWS

Doddlers taking big strides towards greener racing Now in its 33rd year, the Sturminster Newton Half Marathon is one of The Dorset Doddlers biggest – this year’s race attracted almost 350 runners from around Dorset and further afield. This year the Doddlers have been consistently promoting sustainability in all their race events – they now use paper cups rather than plastic for the water stations, and encourage runners to car share.

Green racing For 2023 race director Christine Willis came up with the idea of a ‘Seed’ medal rather than the more usual metal versions. Made of card, with seeds implanted within it, the medal can be planted in order to enjoy the flowers grown from it, reminding you of your race achievement (or it can of course just be kept, as you would a normal medal!).

‘Metal medals often come from countries such as China,’ explains Christine. ‘They are expensive, and there’s usually a long lead time, which means there is a The sustainable, compostable seed medals

tendency to over-order to ensure you have enough. That either means a load of waste, or that you’re stuck with the same medal for subsequent years.’

The new seed medal was designed by Christine and produced by Front Page Print, a local Sturminster Newton business.

‘It meant the order could be finalised just a few days before race day,’ says Christine. ‘So we kept waste to an absolute minimum. Everything about the medal, including the garden twine and the bag, was sustainably produced in the UK, and it’s all fully compostable.’

Christine’s ideas were picked up by England Athletics, who liked them so much they have included them on their website to help other running clubs and events get involved and think more sustainably.

A community event As well as being environmentally friendly, the Stur Half team wanted to ensure that there were social benefits for the race participants too.

‘We want to encourage people to run and enjoy being out in the fresh air in a supportive and friendly environment,’ says Christine. ‘That’s what we hope our races create. We try to keep our race fees low so that the event is more affordable for people who want to give it a go.

The 2023 Stur half marathon start line, with 341 competitors

‘We also want to ensure we are giving back to the local community, and a large proportion of the race profits is donated to local organisations such as the Sturminster Newton Expedition Group, the local Scouts, the High School, The Vale Pantry, The Exchange and the Blackmore Vale Lions.

‘The Dorset Doddlers are runners who are as passionate about the world we live in as we are about running.’

The Stur Half On what was an unseasonably hot day, the race was won by Lewis Clarke of Poole Runners in a time of 1;14;33. The fastest women’s time was from Vicki Ingham, also from Poole Runners, in 1:22:40.

The first local runners were Rich White, in 1:19:19, and Romana Phillips in 2:00:19.

There were 37 runners in the 5K race – the winner was Fraser Baird in 23 mins and one second!

• The Doddlers also organise The Stickler (a 10 mile race beginning with the infamous Stickle Path and covering 1,500ft of gruelling climbing up and over Okeford, Hod and Hambledon Hills) and the North Dorset Marathon, as well as supporting lots of other races in the area. To find out more see dorsetdoddlers.org 41

The BV magazine, November ‘23

COMMUNITY NEWS

Gifts gathered in Shaftesbury for children’s hospital It’s a trio that could be the start of a bad joke: an armed forces charity, some motorbike riders and a funeral director ... but instead of walking into a bar,m they’ll be riding to Dorset County Hospital with toys this Christmas.

Dan Skinner, a Funeral Service Operative in Shaftesbury, is currently organising the toy run to Dorchester on Saturday 16th December. The idea began during a local gathering of the Royal British Legion Riders – and Dan has already secured £500 in donations from Southern Co-op, which operates his own Co-operative Funeralcare branch.

The contributions will be presented to Kingfisher Ward, the children’s ward which offers 17 inpatient beds across various specialities. This year the ward will be brimming with Christmas gifts for all the young patients to enjoy.

Dan says, ‘I am currently trying to bring together as many people as I can muster. The more involvement

The Royal British Legion Riders Dorset

we have, the more donations we can gather, and the more the children will benefit.

‘The hospital staff have sent me a list of items they would be very grateful for, so this donation will make a great difference. We have approached other motorcycle groups as well; I hope we’ll have a good attendance.’

The primary mission of the Royal British Legion Riders is to support the poppy appeal, but they are

always willing to lend a helping hand in the community when opportunities arise.

‘We also do a lot of funeral escorts’ says Dan. ‘At the request of families, mostly for veterans who have passed away.’

• To find out more about the Dorset branch of the Royal British Legion Riders, visit facebook.com/RBLRDorset or email dorset@riders-mail.com.

Coming to Stur; England Boxing’s Veterans Project England Boxing has launched a new project for veterans and Shaun Weeks of Sturminster Newton Boxing Gym has landed one of just 10 coveted places in the country on the scheme.

He will be providing the fullyfunded 12-month journey for local veterans, providing not just boxing but also space to rekindle the bond they miss after leaving The Forces.

The sport of boxing and life in the Forces share many qualities – you need courage, discipline, respect, a good work ethic and high fitness levels to do either.

Shaun says veterans in the local area or beyond are welcome to attend the 46 week programme – each session will be 90 minutes long, including an hour of training followed by 30 42

minutes socialising over a cup of tea or coffee. The project will enable all participants to build on their health and fitness while also working on their wellbeing.

There are 20 places available on

the Veterans Project in Stur – its totally free of charge.

If you, or someone you know may be interested in the project please do contact Shaun on 07817 243101 for more info.

The BV magazine, November ‘23

COMMUNITY NEWS Employ My Ability offers vocational training for students with learning disabilities and special educational needs and disabilities. One of their students, Maddie Walters, spent her work experience with us, and now writes a regular column - Ed

Time for a Dorset bonfire night!

It’s almost November 5th and that can only mean one thing – Bonfire Night will soon be here! There is going to be lots of fireworks and of course a really big bonfire.

It’s also called Guy Fawkes night, and it commemorates the failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605, where Guy Fawkes and his gang tried to blow up Parliament on November 5th. Luckily the plot failed and today people simply get to enjoy the fireworks and the bonfires – sometimes burning a straw ‘Guy’ for fun.

If you are going to a firework display it’s important to stay warm and dry. Never go near a bonfire to warm up; fires are very dangerous and it’s not safe to stand close. One handy thing to bring is a good torch – once the bonfire

goes out you can’t see in the dark!

Some people don’t like big firework displays, especially if they have pets. It’s a good idea to keep pets in a safe spot to keep them from danger. Ask your vet what you can do to make them more calm on this noisy night.

If you’re planning on staying at home for Guy Fawkes night you can still have a personal bonfire night in your garden! Buy garden fireworks, make a pig pot of soup or chilli, and enjoy a quieter night with your family. Simple sparklers and quiet firework fountains are still festive and fun. Just be sure to let a responsible person be in charge of lighting them!

Some of the big firework displays that are happening in Dorset this November:

•

3rd - Minterne House Fireworks (£12). Gates open at 5pm, fireworks 7.30pm.

• 4th - Lyme Regis Fireworks (FREE) from the Cobb at 6.30pm • 4th – Bournemouth Fireworks (£10) displays at 7, 8 and 9pm • 5th – Weymouth Guy Fawkes Celebrations (FREE). Lighting of the giant beach bonfire at 7.40pm, fireworks 8pm • 5th - Firework Night on Poole Quay (FREE). Starts at 5pm, fireworks 8pm.

• 11th – Bridport’s Bonfire by the Beach (FREE), starts at 4pm, fireworks 8pm • 11th - Sherborne Castle fireworks (£9). Gates open 4pm, fireworks 7.30pm Enjoy your fireworks – stay safe!

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

PUZZLES click to complete on your tablet, computer or phone Crossword Simply - or there’s a download option if you prefer pen and paper.

click to complete! This month you get the results of some delicious BV Jigsaw Just Towers walnut foraging. It’s a good one though – it took editor Laura 24 minutes to complete – can you beat her?

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COMMUNITY NEWS

A local expert from Citizen’s Advice provides timely tips on consumer issues. In the postbag this month:

Tips to trim your energy bills and get the support you need

Q

: ‘As winter is approaching I am getting more and more worried about my energy bills. What can I do to try to keep them down?’

A

: Small changes can make a

big difference when it comes to saving energy. Citizens Advice has teamed up with Energy Saving Trust to share advice on getting help if you are struggling with energy bills and tips on how to cut energy costs around the home – not just this winter but as permanent money savers: • Washing clothes at 30°C could save around £15 per year. Reducing the number of wash cycles you do by one per week could save a further £15 off your annual bill.

• Reducing shower time to four minutes could save a typical household as much as £75 a year (and why not switch off the shower while you are soaping up?).

• Putting only the water you need in the kettle could save around £12 a year on electricity.

• Draught-proofing windows and doors will help your home feel warmer and could save around £50 a year on bills.

• Turning appliances off at the wall/plug when you’re not using them could save an average of £60 a year.

• Turning the thermostat down by 1°C could save around £115 a year.

Finding more help However, lifestyle changes won’t be possible for everyone – and

will not be enough to cover the hole in many household budgets caused by higher prices, so do check you’re getting all the support you’re entitled to.

This could include: • Checking what benefits are available to you by using a calculator such as the one on entitledto.co.uk • The Warm Home Discount – £150 annually off your bill if you get certain means-tested benefits • Cold weather payments — you’ll receive these payments if you get certain benefits and

• •

•

the weather is extremely cold Grants from your energy supplier — to help you pay off debts you may owe Household Support Fund is available to households across Dorset who meet the specific criteria.

If you are on a very low income you may also be eligible for charitable support. Contact your local CA office for details.

• More information on all of the above can be found on the Citizens Advice website.

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Letters to the Editor

Want to reply? Read something you feel needs commenting on? Our postbag is open! Please send emails to letters@BVmagazine.co.uk.

When writing, please include your full name and address; we will not print this, but do require it.

Is the world uninsurable?

I’m concerned about the impact of climate change on our community, especially seeing the effects of the most recent set of storms with the damaging flooding to many local properties and businesses.

Insurance companies already warn that due to climate-related risks, premiums will rise. In 2022, we had £473 million in storm payouts, and high temperatures led to £219 million in subsidence claims last summer. Insured losses from extreme weather have risen by 54% in a decade.

Home insurance prices are at an all-time high, making it unaffordable for some. However, the situation is even more dire for those who cannot afford or access home insurance due to past flooding or a lack of willing insurers.

This leaves homeowners and businesses vulnerable to shouldering the full costs of damage – and it also affects property values in high-risk areas, as potential buyers struggle to secure mortgages on uninsured properties.

As Axa Insurance CEO, Henri De Castries, aptly said, “A 2°C warmer world might be insurable, a 4°C warmer world certainly would not be.” It is crucial that we acknowledge the role of climate change in these challenges and take proactive measures to protect our homes and environment.

L Simmons, Sherborne Gribbles and Ymps (In reference to Jane Adam’s Just chuck it out the window! in The BV Oct 23.)

Many moons ago I worked on a tree nursery, one of our major contracts was supplying trees to new road projects, some of which were a species of apple that originated from an apple core in South Somerset – they were planted all over the country.

The origins of Slack Ma Girdle are still unconfirmed; chances are it was from Devon, but we will never know.

Crab apples are direct descendants of the wild apples found in Kazakhstan. Size does not matter but mostly they’re very small, and they are all Malus sylvestris, as opposed to Malus domesticus, domesticated apples (this did make me laugh) which are the descendants of sylvestris but then grafted onto known rootstock, ranging from Dwarf to Standards.

Apple trees grown from seed are Gribbles, as 46

opposed to those grown from grafts which in olde English were known as Ymps.

Every seed from an apple is genetically different from its parent tree, that is the beauty of the apple and why I have 18 new cultivars about to be grown on by Adam’s Apples.

Tim Beer, via Facebook On Bad Boy Wilf (Andrew Livingston’s brutally honest tale of dog ownership in the Oct issue of the BV) I have literally never enjoyed reading anything so much that I know to be 100% true in all my life. I laughed the whole way through!

Linda O’Neill, Facebook On the kindness of villagers I was deeply touched by the heartwarming article about Gemma Hampton and her husband Andy’s experience in Hinton St Mary (The BV, Oct 23). In times of adversity, it is often the support and kindness of a close-knit community that shine the brightest. Gemma’s account of the village’s response to her husband’s diagnosis of a brain tumour is a testament to the strength of community spirit. The villagers coming together to create a rota for the family’s help is truly heartening. It is in stories like these that we find the true essence of community – something so often declared as lost.

But it is a place where people rally around one another in times of need, offering their assistance and their support. What a reminder of the goodness that does exist, right outside our doors.

I wish Gemma, Andy, and their children continued strength and resilience as they navigate this challenging journey ahead.

Anna Simmons, Verwood On Steeptonbill Farm Shop I enjoyed the recent feature on Steeptonbill Farm Shop and its owner, Steve Gould. It’s great to read about another local business dedicated to fresh, sustainable produce. Steve’s commitment to supporting local growers and providing seasonal items is impressive. It’s essential to support local growers like Steve, who contribute to our community and offer authentic, quality food. It’s businesses like Steeptonbill Farm Shop that make

The BV magazine, November ‘23

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

our local community special.

On a side note, I want to compliment your “Meet Your Local” column, which has introduced me to several new local businesses and also had me exploring some previously-unknown villages. Keep up the good work!

F Winter, Shaftesbury I found this amazing little gold mine of a shop in the summer and went back on Wednesday for fresh veg for a slow cooker stew – it was gorgeous!

Sally Bastian, Facebook Take a hike I just wanted to drop a quick note to say thanks for featuring the hike “In the space between Dorchester and Beaminster” in your recent issue. It was a lovely walk in an area I hadn’t explored before, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

What I appreciated most was the practicality of the article. Using a proper map, along with the option to download the route, is right up my alley. I like to have a physical map in hand while planning my walks. And even though I don’t walk with an app, having the choice to download and transcribe the route was a bonus for a map enthusiast like me. I’ve bookmarked a few more walks you’ve featured, and I’m looking forward to trying them out when the weather improves. Thanks again for making local walks accessible and enjoyable.

Your magazine has become my go-to for discovering new paths in our area!

Peter Brown, Blandford What about the youth resources?

I am writing to express my concern about the lack of opportunities and outlets available to young people in our rural area. Living in a rural setting undoubtedly has its charms, but it also presents challenges, especially for our younger residents.

After school, there seems to be a significant void in terms of activities and places for them to gather, socialise, and engage in constructive pursuits.

It’s disheartening to hear about the prevalence of drug issues in some of our towns, and it’s clear that many young people are lacking positive alternatives to keep them occupied and motivated.

While uniformed groups are fantastic for those who are interested, they may not appeal to everyone.

I am curious to know if there are any initiatives or plans in place to address this issue. Are there community-driven efforts to create safe and engaging spaces for young people to come together, learn, and have fun? Is there a possibility of securing funding or support from local organisations or authorities to facilitate such programmes?

Heather Baines, Gillingham

Commercial & Private Law

Have confidence in the decisions you make.

When it comes to giving advice, we take the time to get to know you 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.

Contact us at: info@porterdodson.co.uk

www.porterdodson.co.uk

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

ADVERTORIAL

Saturday 4th November FREE PARKING ALL DAY Car & Bike Enthusiasts Station Rd 9am - 12noon Meet the Trader at 1855 Sturminster Newton 10am - 12noon Thursday 9th November Handmade for Christmas at The Workhouse Chapel daily until 24th December 9.30am - 4.30pm Saturday 18th November Lantern Making Workshop at The Exchange Friday 24th November Late Night Shopping Event – Various locations 5pm to 8pm 1855 Sturminster Newton One Year Celebration 5pm - 8pm Christmas Tree Festival at St. Mary’s Church 6pm - 8pm Saturday 25th November Christmas tree light switch on FREE PARKING ALL DAY Anonymous Travelling Market at Market Place and Station Road 9am to 4pm Christmas Market at The Exchange 48

10am - 2pm Christmas Tree Festival at St. Mary’s Church 10am - 8pm Father Christmas at 1855 Sturminster Newton 11am - 3.30pm Bulgarian Dancing TBC 2pm SNHS Choir in the Market Place 4.15pm Father Christmas in the Railway Garden 4.30pm Lantern Parade from The Exchange 4.50pm Christmas Tree Light Switch On at 5pm Lantern Parade to the Church at 5.10pm Ninebarrow at The Exchange 7.30pm Sunday 26th November Christmas Tree Festival at St. Mary’s Church 10am - 4pm Wednesday 29th November S N & H Cricket Club Christmas Bingo at The Exchange. Doors open at 6pm Thursday 30th November Living Spit - A Christmas Carol at The Exchange 7.30pm Saturday 2nd December Small Business Saturday FREE PARKING ALL DAY

The BV magazine, November ‘23

ADVERTORIAL

Car & Bike Enthusiasts Station Rd 9am - 12noon Meet the Trader at 1855 Sturminster Newton 10am - 12noon Christmas Market at The Exchange 10am - 2pm Father Christmas at 1855 Sturminster Newton 11am - 3pm Story time with Father Christmas at 1855 Sturminster Newton at 3pm Los Pacaminos at The Exchange at 8pm

Sunday 3rd December Advent Service at St. Mary’s Church 11am Wednesday 6th December Carols at Sturminster Mill at 6.30pm Thursday 7th December Vale Pantry Bingo at the Exchange 6.30pm Friday 8th December SNADS Christmas Quiz at The Exchange 7pm start Saturday 9th December FREE PARKING ALL DAY Car & Bike Enthusiasts Station Rd 9am - 12noon Food Tasting at 1855 Sturminster Newton 10am - 12noon Christmas Market at The Exchange 10am - 2pm Vale Pantry Christmas Bazaar at The Exchange 10am - 2pm Christmas Crafts at Sturminster Newton Library 10am - 12noon Father Christmas at 1855 Sturminster Newton 11am - 3pm Story time with Father Christmas at 1855 Sturminster Newton at 3pm Choral Society Concert at St Mary’s Church 7.30pm Sunday 10th December Santa Stride at Trailway Entrance from 10am Monday 11th December William Barnes School Choir at St. Mary’s Church 2pm

Friday 15th December Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra Christmas Crackers at The Exchange at 7.30pm Saturday 16th December FREE PARKING ALL DAY Christmas Market at The Exchange 10am - 2pm Christmas Code Club at Sturminster Newton Library 10am - 11am Sturminster Newton Orchestra Concert at The Exchange at 10.45am Father Christmas at 1855 Sturminster Newton 11am at 3pm Story time with Father Christmas at 1855 Sturminster Newton at 3pm Bare Jams at The Exchange Doors open at 7.30pm Sunday 17th December Carol Service at St Mary’s Church at 4pm Wednesday 20th December Christmas Memories at The Exchange at 2pm Thursday 21st December Carols by Candlelight at Sturminster Christian Fellowship 7pm - followed by mince pies. FREE and open to all Saturday 23rd December FREE PARKING ALL DAY Christmas Market at The Exchange 10am - 2pm One Night of SKA at The Exchange 7.30pm Sunday 24th December Crib Service at St. Mary’s Church Morning Service at Sturminster Christian Fellowship 10.30am Monday 25th December A Christmas Morning Service at Sturminster Christian Fellowship 10.30am Monday 1st January Vintage Car Rally Cars meet from 9am, rally starts at 11am 49

The BV magazine, November ‘23

POSTCARDS FROM A DORSET COLLECTION

A note from Stalbridge

This month Barry Cuff has chosen a couple of postcards of Stalbridge – and as it was so popular last month, he’s showing us the backs again too.

This postcard was sent to Mr M Brice from Albert Road, Upper Parkstone in Aug 1909. It was published

by J. Fezzard of The Ring in Stalbridge: ‘Dear M. Many thanks for your kind postcard. Longing to see you tomorrow, you had better leave Branksome at 5.52 arriving here at 7-6 then you won’t have to change. So I will meet you at 6 minutes past seven, don’t forget. Love to dear Martha & Sister. Yours Bertie – Ada is here today’

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

POSTCARDS FROM A DORSET COLLECTION

This was sent to Miss Warren at White Cross, Banwell in Somerset – which now appears to be Whitecrosss Lane. The card was posted on 25th July 1913 by the photographer, who we can apparently spot in the card! The 25th was a Friday, so this was sent just six days after the Sunday parade: ‘Dear Siss, so sorry I have not written as I promised but have had such a busy photography week, on Parade last Sunday and had a big order in whch made us a lot of work. Hope Mary & yourself are keeping well. Did I tell you Aunt & Uncle are settled down at Wuncanton, they spent last Sunday with us. You can see Aunt & me in the left-hand corner. Love from us both ’

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

THEN AND NOW Step back in time with our ‘Then and Now’ feature, where vintage postcards meet modern-day reality.

Explore the past and present on the same page, and see the evolution of familiar places.

Child Okeford

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

THEN AND NOW

Both the vintage cards were posted in September 1904. The postcard of four little girls photographed by WH Diffey, above, was sent to Llanelli in South Wales.

(Facing page) The group of children in the centre of the village pre-dates the First World War and therefore the war memorial is not there. The card was sent to Stockbridge in Hampshire.

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

NIGHT SKY

by Rob Nolan

Jupiter and its big red spot Despite stormy skies, astrophotographer Darshna Ladva captures stunning Jupiter image. Rob Nolan eyes the sky at night this month As we endure yet another storm sweeping across the UK, stargazing seems an unlikely pastime of late! The whole of October has seen maybe one or two clear skies – I’m really hoping that, as it gets colder, we’ll get some good clear skies to make up for all this bad weather!

Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to process any new images this month. However, a dear friend and astrophotographer Darshna Ladva kindly gave me permission to share her amazing image of Jupiter.

Jupiter is the fifth planet from the Sun and has a radius of over 43,000 miles – it is 11 times wider than Earth. Its stripes and swirls are actually cold, windy clouds of ammonia and water, floating in an atmosphere of hydrogen and helium.

Jupiter’s iconic Great Red Spot is a giant storm, bigger than the entire Earth, that has to our knowledge been raging for hundreds of years.

From an average distance of 484 million miles, Jupiter is 5.2 astronomical units away from the Sun (one astronomical unit, or AU, is the distance from the Sun to the Earth) – this means it takes sunlight 43 minutes to travel from the Sun to Jupiter.

In this particular image, the Great Red Spot is

clearly visible along with the moon Io – just one of Jupiter’s 90 or so moons! The biggest of the moons are the four Galilean moons: Io, Europa, Ganymede and Callisto, discovered in 1610 by Galileo Galilei and Simon Marius.

Lucky imaging It takes a lot of patience and know-how to successfully photograph planets. Instead of relying on lots of static images stacked together, like a deep sky object image, the process for planetary imaging involves shooting videos – in a process aptly named ‘lucky imaging’ – using a high frame rate planetary astro camera. Between 7k and 25k frames from these videos are then stacked in specialist software to create a more stable and sharper image of the planet.

Darshna images the night sky from London, and has an amazing eye for a great nightscape photo, as well as being a dab hand at planetary imaging!

She uses a Skywatcher 127mm Maksutov telescope and the ZWO ASI224 MC planetary camera.

To see more of Darshna’s amazing photography, please look her up on Instagram @nebuladva.

The night sky, November 2023 – Rob’s guide for your stargazing this month: November is all about Jupiter! The gas giant of our solar system is nearest to Earth this month, so it’s a perfect time to explore it. On 1st November it is at its closest – a mere 370 million miles away!

Now is also a good time to grab your binoculars – choose a clear moonless night and enjoy scanning our Milky Way, the seemingly endless ribbon of star clusters and nebulae.

On 9th November, if you’re around before dawn you’ll be entertained by a dazzling duo twilight show from Venus and the crescent Moon.

Another solar system sibling is at its closest to Earth this month – on 13th, Uranus will be at a distance of 1.7 billion miles (I find the distances involved just to the objects in the outer solar system absolutely mind-boggling!). To find Venus, simply look the opposite way to the Sun. If you managed to catch a glimpse of the Orionids meteor shower in October, you did well! I saw one shooting star among the patchy clouds! However, on the night of 17th-18th, we’ve got another chance – the annual Leonid meteor shower is set

to be a better display than it has been in recent years, with a chance of some bright fireballs. It is caused by fragments of the comet Tempel-Turtle as Earth moves across its trail.

On 20th, look to the first quarter Moon and you’ll see Saturn hanging just above it.

Look to the Moon again on the 25th and the bright ‘star’ seen nearby will actually be Saturn.

The following night on the 26th, the Moon will pass under the Pleiades star cluster, also known as the Seven Sisters.

In the build-up to Christmas, as I wrote last month I’m opening up the December image to you all, to put forward your ideas to me as to what celestial object you’d like to see featured in the magazine.

And only if it’s something I’m capable of imaging and can see from our hemisphere, of course!

So let me know what you’d like to see imaged for Christmas. Drop me a message via Facebook or Instagram! I’ve also shared a post on the BV Facebook page.

Until next time, clear skies!

Find Rob on Facebook as RPN Photography here

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

NEWS

Take a Hike:

Walking inland from Ringstead Bay

| 7.6 miles

The views on the second half of this walk are GLORIOUS, and the silence of the valley behind the headland is wonderful – it’s the land time forgot in the gold rush to the sea. That’s the pay-off for the slightly dicey main road crossings of the first half.

The path-finding is very easy, with just a couple of noteable exceptions: • You leave the car park and walk back along the road until turning right, steeply downhill, to Upton Farm. On the map at this point the bridleway dips away from the farmyard to work through Poxwell Big Wood. Don’t try it! After floundering around in path-less, brambley, boggy undergrowth for a while we backtracked and just followed the farm lane around the wood instead.

• At the top of the map you can see a pointless ‘extra bit’ in the route. In one field the path through the hedge has vanished – you need to go all the way down the field, through the gate and then back up the other side of the hedge to re-find the path. Annoying, but not far.

Finally, crossing the A353 is obviously not to be taken lightly – but both times you’re going straight

across so at least you don’t have to walk along it at all. Do take care, it’s fast and very busy; try as we might, there’s just no alternative, it’s the only way to work a circular route here. The bonus is that once you have crossed it the second time, the route just gets better (and better and better ...) the whole way back to the car.

And when you’re finally back at your car, you can sit a while and appreciate that view; we strongly recommend having a flask of coffee and a piece of cake in the car waiting for your return.

You could also add in the walk down to the beach, if you were so inclined: it’s half a mile down to the sea (and the subsequent half a mile back up again of course!)

Parking: couldn’t be easier off-season, though during the summer months you’ll need an early start to nab a spot in the NT car park (pay by machine, NT members free of course).

• CLICK HERE for more images and an interactive map (plus a downloadable gpx file)

All images © Laura Hitchcock We have always created and recently walked the BV routes (see all previously-published routes on the website here). You can also find every route we’ve walked (including many which are unpublished in The BV) on OutdoorActive here (just zoom in/out on the map) – all include a downloadable gpx file.

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

CLICK THE MAP to see the interactive map and download a gpx file

TAKE A HIKE

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

POLITICS

From Hamas to Israel: seeking balance in Middle East relations Amid tensions in the Middle East, MP Simon Hoare advocates understanding and International co-operation in the work towards a peaceful two-state solution It’s usually sensible when writing articles for a local publication to remember the old advice that ‘all politics is local’, and therefore to write on local issues. However, there are times when events overseas are of such magnitude that they command everyone’s attention.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is one such example (and that horror continues without much media attention recently), and the situation in the Middle East continues to unravel and develop, absorbing virtually the whole bandwidth of our news and information sources.

My inbox has been full of people expressing heartfelt views from all perspectives. So allow me to set a few initial baseline points which I believe to be fairly basic and uncontroversial: 1. The attack by Hamas was inhuman, cruel and a large scale terrorist act 2. Israel has the right to defend herself within the parameters of International Law 3. Hamas is not the Palestinian people (any more than the IRA was all Northern Ireland nationalists) 4. To criticise elements of some of the Israeli Government’s actions does not make one an antiSemite, in the same way that condemning Hamas does not make one an Islamophobe 5. A humanitarian catastrophe is unfolding before our eyes 6. The most likely outcome is a deepening and widening of the mutual mistrust between countries that exists in the region with the disastrous consequences that flow from that.

Ten questions, 12 answers I am, as constituents will know, not a black and white populist politician. To solve problems, one needs to sit on both sides of the table, to see the issue from the eyes of your opponent and to try to find a solution that broadly works from both or all perspectives. Most politics and international relations are the product of accommodation of the ‘other side’.

It is for this reason that I am both a supporter of the Conservative Friends of Israel and the Conservative Middle East Council. If – and sometimes it is a huge IF – we are convinced that we want to see a peaceful Middle East where international boundaries and the Rule of Law are upheld, one cannot be 100 per cent pro one and 100 per cent anti the other.

The best solution remains the two-state solution. The benefit of that solution is that it de-fangs Hamas. Talk of killing off (in a physical sense) or destroying Hamas is for the birds. Surely, if we learned any lessons from the fight with ISIS and the Taliban, it is that one cannot kill off an idea/dream/mindset/ideology?

All it takes is a few people to keep that ember aglow and

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it is always fan-able at some future point.

The creation of two, mutually respecting, states removes the need for Hamas as the Palestinian homeland would be established and secured. However that hope seems more distant than ever. Why? How would any Israeli leader take part in such talks following the outrage perpetrated by Hamas on innocent civilians?

So, what should happen? Ask ten people and you will get 12 answers. I started with some basic points of principle so let me conclude with some: 1. The normalisation of Israeli relations with the wider Middle East should continue. No-one should let extreme fanatics knock evolving understanding and diplomatic relations off course.

2. The United Nations should strain every sinew to secure the unconditional release of the hostages 3. Hamas rockets and Israeli military action should then cease and the Gaza Strip become a UNenforced protectorate or enclave, en route to the creation of the two-state solution 4. Humanitarian aid must be allowed through 5. As I said in the Commons, to maximise humanitarian relief Egypt needs support – and confidence that it will not become another permanent, terrorist-infested refugee camp 6. (and this is the really hard part) The government of Israel needs to be the ‘bigger man’, articulating that two wrongs do not make a right and that an ‘eye for an eye and tooth for a tooth’ is an out-of-date and irrelevant thought. Israel, as the democratic champion in the region, should always aspire to the higher calling that that status bestows.

A swift way forward Much of that is easier said than done. President Biden’s words were important, when he said, in terms: the US naturally lashed out after 9/11 – the doing so met a pressing need for retaliation and vengeance. It is, however, not always the right thing to do.

As I said, easier for me to write this in the comfort and safety of North Dorset than, say, for my brother-in-law’s family in Tel Aviv to domestically advocate for.

We all know how we would like the Middle East to be.

We just don’t know how to make it so. Let us hope, and pray, that a route map becomes clear – and soon.

The BV magazine, November ‘23

Advocating for fairness: same-sex couples and the IVF challenge

POLITICS

The challenges faced by same-sex couples in accessing IVF drive an urgent need for equitable healthcare and policy changes, says Sarah Dyke MP I recently spoke in a debate in Parliament on the provision of IVF for same sex couples.

In the UK, 90 per cent of the Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) require female same sex couples to self-fund six cycles of intrauterine insemination (IUI) before they are eligible for IVF, leaving them to face extreme and often inhibitive costs. One cycle of IUI costs £3,000 – and many couples will undergo six to 12 cycles of IUI, leaving them to pay between £19,600 and £25,000 before they are eligible for any NHS fertility services.

Somerset ICB will fund nine cycles of IUI, but only one cycle of IVF to eligible women aged between 23 and 40 – well below the NICE guideline of three full cycles. Only four of the country’s 42 ICBs currently provide equal access to same sex couples and do not require self-funding.

It’s later than you think Same sex couples face a system that makes undergoing artificial insemination costly and arduous. I have been told by friends about the in the mid-20s and drops rapidly after 35. Many emotional impact that this has on them, when women now choose to have children later in life, they feel like they are in a fight with a system with the average age of new mothers in 2021 being that discriminates against them and does not close to 31. understand them.

A delay implementing the Women’s Health StratThere should of course be equal access for egy will have a real and significant impact on the same sex couples across the nation’s health care LGBTQ+ community’s ability to have children, as providers and I hope to see this reflected in the they continue to navigate the difficulties embednext NICE Guidelines in 2024. ded in the current “postcode lottery” system.

The government’s Women’s Health Strategy has While this discriminatory system exists, the pledged to remove barriers faced by LGBTQ+ community are being put at same sex couples, but has set a tena significant financial disadvantage year development goal. Having spoat the very start of their journey Only four of ken to people involved in the industry into parenthood. the country’s 42 they fear that this will be pushed back The current system can also even further. This would mean that drive same-sex couples towards ICBs currently many more LGBTQ+ people who want potentially unsafe methods, such as provide equal to become parents will be left feeling seeking sperm donors who may not access to same disenfranchised under the current be known to them. sex couples system as they are unable to afford Not only can this place women in the huge costs involved in fertility danger, but if the woman is not treatment. married or in a civil partnership Every year that goes by has a real then the donor will be considered the legal impact on the lives of LGBTQ+ people – more parent of any children, giving him rights over, and than 60 per cent of whom either want children, or responsibilities for, the child. already have them.

We need a fair and equal IVF treatment It should be noted that women’s fertility rate peaks programme that is equitable for all.

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

POLITICS

Can-kicking on climate change

The Prime Minister’s announcement that he has decided to ease back on some of the government’s climate change targets has been greeted with dismay by pretty much everyone who understands just how bad things already are.

Speaking at a lectern somewhat misleadingly labelled “Long-term decisions for a brighter future” Rishi Sunak’s new approach to achieving Net Zero includes delaying the transition from gas boilers to heat pumps, as well as the phasing out of petrol and diesel vehicles. He also announced plans to scrap a range of other policies that were designed to help meet Net Zero targets, such as the obligation for homeowners and landlords to meet energy efficiency targets on home insulation.

All this is in spite of the government’s own advisory body, the Climate Change Committee, having emphatically stated (again) that existing government policies

are already totally insufficient to achieve Net Zero by 2050. And in spite of a year when the reality of climate change surely became undeniable, with the relentless breaking of weather records both here in the UK and across the world.

Tragically several people were killed in the recent second autumn storm to hit the UK, and farmland flooding will result in significant crop losses and lead to shortages of some foods – and naturally an increase in prices.

As I write this the Met Office are warning of yet another storm about to hit the UK, with very strong winds and a risk of further flooding because the heavy rain will fall on ground that is already saturated from the previous storms.

We simply cannot afford to slow our efforts to wean ourselves off fossil fuels. Unless the government’s change of course is rapidly reversed there will be ever worsening consequences.

Kicking the can down the road may make you popular with some voters, but in the long run it will inevitably cost us all a lot more, in lost lives as well as money.

There are, however, glimmers of hope in the growing number of young people becoming active in environmental protests, and in reports that UK citizens over the age of 70 (a key cohort of Tory voters) are increasingly concerned about the environment.

• Ken Huggins, North Dorset Green Party

Profits for banks, suffering for ordinary people While ordinary people suffer the impacts of a cost-of-living crisis, Rishi Sunak’s Tories appear to be busy preparing the ground for another one by lifting the cap on bankers’ bonuses.

They were capped at 100 per cent of bankers’ salaries in 2014 as a part of efforts to avoid a financial crisis like the one in 2008. In some cases, bonuses of more than 100 per cent can be awarded to top performers and more senior investment banking roles. Finance bosses have long complained about the rules, however, saying that they have had the unintended consequences of pushing up bankers’ fixed pay, and giving them less wriggle room to vary pay due to material poor performance or misconduct.

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However, as an ex-banker himself, the prime minister will be fully aware of the behaviours that an uncapped reward scheme will drive. While the general idea of rewarding employees who have contributed significantly to an increase in profits for the part of the business they work in seems uncontentious, the sheer scale of the bonuses available in an uncapped system has proved to encourage the kind of excessive, greed-driven risktaking in the financial services industry that led to the financial crash in 2008 – a crash that is

still being paid for by the same ordinary working people who now find themselves in the grip of the cost-of-living crisis.

Meanwhile, as Sunak and his Cabinet appear set to line the pockets of the bankers again, there are no proposals to stop banks from showering themselves with the profits from the interest rates rising; the same rates that are crippling workers and businesses alike.

In whose interests does this government continue to act?

• Pat Osborne North Dorset Labour

The BV magazine, November ‘23

POLITICS

New approach balances Net Zero commitment and rural concerns MP Chris Loder welcomes £78 billion support for households and Net Zero adjustments to ease rural transition worries You may recall that this time last year, the government implemented the Energy Price Guarantee – a cap of £2,500 for the average household on dual-fuel tariffs, to tackle rising bills. A raft of measures was also introduced for businesses and off-grid households, including the Alternative Fuels Payment Scheme and the Energy Bills Support Scheme. Taken together, this package of measures provided – and continues to provide – an unprecedented level of financial support, worth more than £78 billion across 2022-23 and ‘23-24.

This winter, we can cautiously expect a return to some degree of normality with our energy bills, as wholesale energy prices have dropped to their lowest level since October 2021. Nonetheless, for those households and businesses struggling to pay their energy bills, support is still available, and I’d be very happy to help should you need any advice or assistance.

the previous approach, new or replacement oil and gas boilers would have been banned from 2026 – a policy with which more than two-thirds of constituents who completed my Rural Energy Survey disagree.

The reality is, the previous approach disproportionately affected rural families, businesses and those with low incomes.

In my view, this was unjustifiable – especially during a cost-of-living crisis.

Moreover, the preferred alternative – heat pumps – come with an average price tag of £10,000, a sum far beyond many household budgets.

The wider debate has rarely included an understanding of the consequences. The language of Net Zero has always featured the pros, but very rarely the cons – Let’s talk the cons that is why the Prime Minister has Aside from the immediate situbalanced and adjusted some of ation, there are also questions the immediate initiatives, while about our long-term energy usage. maintaining our commitment to How resilient is our energy supply? Net Zero. I have been clear that What can be done to the consequences minimise the envifor rural Britain “Heat pumps ronmental impacts were not adequately of energy producunderstood or come with tion? How can we balanced, which led an average reach Net Zero by to my scepticism price tag of 2050 without burwith the former dening households policy. £10,000, far and businesses in In rural West Dorset, beyond many rural areas?

51 per cent of household The Prime Minister households aren’t recently announced on the mains gas budgets” a new approach grid. Even with a to delivering our government grant, Net Zero commitment, especialit would simply not be practicable ly where it would have an unfair for these households and impact on rural people. Under businesses to pay for an expensive

new heating system.

Under the new approach, off-grid households and businesses will only need to install a heat pump if they are intending to replace their current boiler after 2035 – nine years later than originally intended.

In addition, one-fifth of all households will be exempt where it isn’t practical or affordable to do so.

This is positive for those properties and premises in Sherborne and the wider Blackmore Vale, many of which are centuries old and do not have the right conditions for the installation of a new heat pump.

For households and businesses that are able to and want to transition to a heat pump today, grants worth £7,500 – or 50 per cent of the cost of a heat pump – are available under the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.

We must not lose sight that, per capita, carbon levels in the UK are at their lowest since the 1850s.

The UK has also over-delivered on its targets, with the fastest reduction in emissions in the G7.

We’ve had the fastest reduction in greenhouse gas emissions – down by nearly 50 per cent compared to 1990, while China has increased its emissions by 300 per cent. Taken together, this enables a more pragmatic and realistic route to be implemented in due course by 2050.

• I’d be interested to know your views on this, and you can contact me on: hello@chrisloder.co.uk

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

RURAL MATTERS The new T-pylons installed in Somerset for Hinkley Point are cheaper and shorter, but more visible on the landscape

Pylon hell?

Electrification will have a major impact on Britain’s landscape, with pylon implications for Dorset, says Rupert Hardy of North Dorset CPRE Last year, residents in West Dorset celebrated the points and heat pumps. removal of 22 electricity pylons in the Dorset Area Currently it can take up to 14 years to build new of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) – which power lines, so planning needs to be streamlined was done at huge expense. Just 12 months later, a and the grid massively restructured to achieve his headline in the Daily Express read: “Pylon Hell to proposed seven years. It looks very ambitious.

Descend on Britain” as the media realised Mr Winser and the National Grid have the physical effect of the electrification of been coy about the number of new Britain in the pursuit of Net Zero.

‘The need is cables and pylons needed. Unfortunately, What does this mean for Dorset? the introduction of intermittent and for 90,000 In the 1920s and ‘30s CPRE was battling remotely-located renewable energy pylons, to protect the countryside from unsightgenerators such as wind farms has ly pylons as the National Grid was first resulted in the need for new grid lines. compared rolled out. Once again CPRE faces a new Their intermittency is a key issue; while with the invasion – but on a scale not seriously the average power generated by solar 22,000 now’ envisaged before, thanks partly to the farms is only 10 per cent of their peak development of renewable energy. capacity, the grid lines obviously need to This summer Nick Winser, the UK Electricity accommodate peak power.

Networks Commissioner, laid out radical deThe Express quoted Sarah Williams, Director of carbonisation plans – although the government has Regulation and Asset Strategy at Wales and West still to accept their conclusions, which are designed Utilities, saying the need was for 90,000 pylons, to speed up the roll-out of thousands of miles of compared to the 22,000 now covering 4,300 miles high voltage cables to connect new wind and solar of the UK. A senior source who worked at the old farms with users of electric vehicles, EV recharging Department of Energy guessed it might be less than 70,000 pylons – but this is still a huge expansion and it will be expensive.

It is easy to be sceptical over whether any government – and certainly not this one, seeking re-election soon, with Sunak backtracking on green measures – will push ahead given the enormous local opposition already being voiced.

Dorset will be less affected East Anglia is likely to be the worst affected area in the UK, with the need to connect offshore windpower to major power users such as London.

Local protesters in East Anglia are arguing for burying the cables underground or offshore, but the cost is huge. Most estimates suggest an increased

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

RURAL MATTERS cost ratio of 10:1 for onshore burial or 4:1 for offshore, when compared with overground pylons. A cash-strapped government is unlikely to bury cables unless absolutely necessary across protected land.

The National Grid has been extolling the virtues of a new generation of Danish-designed pylons, called the T-pylon, which are cheaper to install. They have been used in Somerset to connect the new power station at Hinkley Point, but feedback from residents has not been positive. Because the design is not only more solid than the familiar century-old design, but also white, they stand out in the landscape far more than the old taller lattice designs, despite being only 35m high. They are also criticised for interfering more with WiFi, and for being noisier. The new 112 mile high voltage transmission line proposed for East Anglia uses the old lattice design.

Local campaigners and MPs in East Anglia have been vocal in their opposition. Tory MP Sir Bernard Jenkin, who is not a climate sceptic, said: ‘I have never known a single issue raise so much passion in my constituency ... whether it is Gainsborough country or Constable country, we’re talking about despoiling really serious parts of our national heritage.’

The government is also looking at whether local residents could be compensated if such infrastructure was built close to their homes.

However CPRE does not see a way to make this fair and we would prefer community benefits instead.

Dorset will be less affected than East Anglia – we have no offshore windpower, and the huge capacity of the Chickerell terminal will reduce the need for more high voltage transmission lines. However, the development of solar farms across the county will still require the roll-out of lower voltage cables, with smaller, less obtrusive, 35-40m high pylons.

Dorset’s relative isolation is currently a benefit! Half the county is likely to be spared from overground cabling too, given the size of the AONBs. Other solutions We need to focus more on nuclear power to provide the steady baseload in order to offset the intermittency of renewable power – new nuclear power stations on old sites would need little additional cabling. More rooftop solar would reduce grid issues, as the power generation and its subsequent use would be in the same building, unlike greenfield sites. More major battery storage facilities will be needed – as long as they are located away from population centres. Dorset residents will have to accept many more pylons, but less unsightly ones than those for high voltage. Yet there will be battles over which proposed sites do less harm to our beautiful countryside and are more appropriate to build on.

If you are moving home in Dorset and do not like pylons, may I suggest you buy within an AONB, and if not, install rooftop solar without delay.

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

BOOK CORNER

by Wayne Winstone, of Winstone’s book shop in Sherborne

Clare Balding and our dog-loving nation We have a treat in store for you in December – especially if you like dogs, know someone who likes dogs and needs a Christmas present, or if you’re just a fan of Clare Balding!

We are lucky enough to be able to welcoming bestselling author, dog lover and official national treasure Clare Balding to Sherborne as she talks about her latest book Isle of Dogs – and shares her love for our favourite family pet in an adventure across Britain.

National stories are often told through our politics or our monarchy – but this is a tale of how Britain is shaped by its dogs. Clare Balding has always been fascinated by the impact dogs have on our lives and the way they have shaped Britain across the centuries. She explores the characteristics of our favourite breeds, why we’re drawn to them and what they bring out in us, from how we work to how we live.

In this journey across the nation, Clare looks at the many roles dogs fulfil and the history of how they became such an intrinsic part of our lives. From the mysteries of extinct breeds to the ancient dogs still thriving today, she journeys from Battersea to the Orkney Islands via Buckingham Palace, in a moving and humorous tale of loyalty and partnership.

She discovers how people care for and train dogs that are as large as a pony or small enough to fit in a handbag, meets British businesses inspired by dogs, and considers why certain breeds have soared in popularity. She also explores our long canine history, rediscovering long-lost working breeds and investigating why it was that our relationship with dogs changed during Queen Victoria’s reign.

Join us to celebrate the launch of Clare Balding’s new book – Isle of Dogs: A canine adventure through Britain Tuesday, 5th December 6.30pm for 7pm at Cheap St Church, Sherborne Tickets £5, available online here

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

WHAT’S ON

SSSO and Wind Band Open Rehearsal Sunday 12th November, 2.00pm BSR (Big School Room), Sherborne School

Michael Partington, classical guitarist, returns to his roots Sherborne and its surrounds have a rich tradition of nurturing highly talented musicians and singers, counting luminaries like Ruth Rogers (violin), Dame Emma Kirkby (soprano), and Chris Martin (Coldplay) among their ranks.

Michael Partington arrived in Milborne Port as a young teenager when his parents owned a shop on London Road. He pursued his passion for the guitar locally, and began teaching it while completing his A-levels. He was employed by the council to teach in several local schools and Yeovil College.

In 1991, he chose to move to America, where he has since thrived as Artist in Residence and director of the guitar programme at the University of Washington in Seattle. In addition to teaching, Michael’s musical journey has seen him performing as a soloist and with ensembles across North America, Europe, Scandinavia, as well as on BBC Radio 3 and national public radio in America.

His 11th solo CD, Concoctions From the Kitchen, was released in October this year dedicated to American composer Bryan Johanson. Classical Guitar magazine has lauded Michael for his ‘lyricism, intensity, and clear technical command.’

Sherborne Douzelage is fortunate enough to have Michael Partington performing a fundraising concert in support of the Douzelage General meeting involving 27 countries, set to take place in Sherborne in April 2024.

The concert is scheduled for Saturday, November 25th, at Cheap Street Church in Sherborne, commencing at 7:30 pm. Tickets priced at £15 are available from Winstone’s Bookshop in Sherborne, or you can contact Mary marydmc38@gmail.com 66

Sherborne Schools’ Symphony Orchestra Sherborne School Wind Band FREE ADMISSION ALL WELCOME Scan the QR code to book now or email: tickets@sherborne.org

Tindall Recital Series Thursday 9th November, 7.30pm Tindall Recital Hall, Music School, Sherborne School

Robert Folkes – tenor

Daniel Silcock – piano

Robert Folkes, a former pupil of Sherborne School, returns to give a concert with pianist Daniel Silcock.

Both in their final year at the Royal Academy of Music, they will present a mixed programme of songs and opera arias as they embark on their careers as professional musicians.

Tickets £12.50 to include a glass of wine

Scan the QR code to book now or email: tickets@sherborne.org

The BV magazine, November ‘23

WHAT'S ON @ THE EXCHANGE BACK TO BACHARACH SAT 11TH NOVEMBER

Celebrating the timeless masterpieces of “The Hitmaker” Burt Bacharach behind one of the greatest American songbooks of the 20th Century.

Featuring breath-taking performances from a West End cast and the amazing musicianship of The Magic Moments Orchestra (£23)

SYD LAWRENCE ORCHESTRA SAT 27TH JAN

Directed by Chris Dean, celebrating the music of Major Glenn Miller, with hits as Moonlight Serenade, In The Mood, String of Pearls, and many more or your Big Band favourites! (£23)

CHRISTMAS MEMORIES WITH NEIL SANDS WED 20TH DECEMBER

2PM

SAT 23RD DEC

Neil Sands and his wonderful cast are back with the new 2023 production of their hit show, a spectacular spirit lifting, heartwarming, afternoon of festive nostalgia. (£15/£14)

NINEBARROW

SAT 25TH NOVEMBER

The multi-award-winning folk duo, return for this special, one-off show, performing as a trio alongside the extraordinary talent of John Parker on double bass. Expect brand news songs from the latest Ninebarrow album (The Colour of Night, released Sep 2023) and stunningly arrangements of some old favourites (£18)

The BV magazine, November ‘23

NEWS

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

WHAT’S ON

Friday Lunchtime Recitals 1.45pm Cheap Street Church (unless otherwise stated)

15th September

Meet the Music Staff

22nd September

Instrumental and Vocal Soloists I

29th September

Woodwind I

6th October

Strings

13th October

Instrumental and Vocal Soloists II

3rd November

Pianists

10th November

Brass

17th November

Instrumental and Vocal Soloists III

24th November

Woodwind II

1st December

‘Mince Pies’ Chamber Music (Tindall Recital Hall)

FREE ADMISSION ALL WELCOME

Owdyado Theatre with a Twisted Christmas In what is set to be a deliciously depraved take on the holiday season, Twisted Christmas is a selection of eight original micro-plays – indcluding tales of how to buy the perfect gift for your unloved ones, the dark side of Christmas cracker jokes, and why you should never turn your back on a pantomime dame…

Influenced by cult classics such as Inside No.9, The Twilight Zone and Roald Dahl’s Tales of the Unexpected, Twisted Christmas promises a darkly comic evening of macabre mini plays all with a festive flavour!

• Fri 1st December at Wimborne Allendale Centre • Saturday 2nd December Halstock Village Hall • Sunday 3rd December Stalbridge Hall Tickets (£12/£5) and details on artsreach.co.uk

King Lear with Oddbodies Armed with only a drum, a guitar, a knife and a chair, the trajectory of Lear’s demise is presented to you from the point of view of his long suffering and ever-loyal fool – fast paced, funny and ultimately heartbreaking.

• 24th Nov Buckland Newton Village Hall • 25th Nov Powerstock hut Tickets (£12) and details on artsreach.co.uk

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

WHAT’S ON

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

WHAT’S ON

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

NEWS

FRIDAY 8 - SUNDAY 31 DECEMBER 2023

westlandsyeovil.co.uk | Box Office: 01935 422884 72

The BV magazine, November ‘23

ART Mango Seller by Marzia Colonna

Mother and daughter in artistic harmony Different voices on personal paths – Fanny Charles looks at the compatible art of collage artist Marzia Colonna and ceramic sculptor Fiamma Montagu Marzia Colonna is an outstanding and multitalented artist with an international reputation not only as a great sculptor but as one of this country’s finest collage artists.

She has lived in Dorset for many years, latterly in Portesham and now in Lyme Regis, and exhibits regularly at Sladers Yard in West Bay and in the biennial Dorset Art Weeks. Most recently she has a joint show at Sladers Yard with her daughter, ceramic sculptor Fiamma Colonna Montagu.

Love at first sight Many years ago The Lovers, one of Marzia’s major bronzes, attracted widespread attention with its simplicity and its powerful but almost subliminal eroticism. It is the shape of two bodies, barely fleshed out, one single bronze, no heads, no arms, no legs, just a sinuous, arched male back and a matching female torso, leaning in, joined in a curve at the bottom, but not touching above. It is powerful and it moves you almost to tears. You want to stroke it and smooth it.

Marzia’s sculptures have always had that effect – you need to touch them.

A young couple came to Marzia’s studio during Dorset Art Week and fell in love with The Lovers – but when they heard the price, they knew they couldn’t afford it. Marzia was understandably

The Lovers

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

ART surprised when, a couple of months later, the couple returned to buy the sculpture, if one of the limited edition was still available. It was. Marzia was curious as to how they could afford it, so shortly after their previous visit. She asked if they had won the lottery. They explained that they had sold the car. Living and working in London, they didn’t need it. They wanted The Lovers.

Fast forward several years, and they returned to see her. They were now living in Switzerland, where the husband was a successful banker – and they had a car! They still owned and loved The Lovers.

Sculpting with paper I was first aware of Marzia Colonna during the inaugural Dorset Art Week in 1992, when she telephoned to invite me to write about her exhibition in the magazine I edited. I was concerned it might be another derivative, commercial show from a pushy exhibitor.

But sculptor Marzia, with her still pronounced accent and her beautiful house in Evershot, St Aldhelm, a sculpture

by Marzia in Sherborne Abbey

Marzia Colonna with Japanese Maple Image: Gay Pirrie-Weir

sounded a bit different. We went with interest one early afternoon in May, walked around the house and opened the door ...

Sometimes you go into an artist’s studio and you know you are going to have to be polite and make a hasty exit.

Sometimes you fall in love.

That’s what happened to us – beautiful, emotional sculptures in all phases of creation, little maquettes, large compelling bronzes, sketches, the general chaos of a working artist’s studio.

They took our breath away, and that reaction has never changed.

Starting young We have followed Marzia’s career and the development of her work over the decades – exhibitions at Sladers Yard and the Portland Gallery in Mayfair, photographs of commissions all over the world and art week visits to her various

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studios. And a gradual transition from sculpture to collage.

Born in Pisa in 1951, Marzia showed her talent from early childhood. She was accepted at the age of 12 as a member of an experimental group of seven students at the city’s art school and went on to study sculpture at the prestigious Accademia di Belle Arti in Florence at the age of 17. She moved to England with her husband Robert Montagu and had her first solo exhibition in London in 1979. Since then she has exhibited regularly, locally and nationally.

She has work in many private collections, sculpture parks and galleries and her commissions include several important works in the West Country – the statue of St Aldhelm in Sherborne Abbey, marking the 1300th anniversary of the founding of the abbey, a Crucifix in Salisbury

The BV magazine, November ‘23

ART Fiamma Colonna with Totems – Guardians of the Earth 1 and 2 and on stool are Fiamma’s Meditation Totems – The Wild Creative Sea and Elements of the Earth

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

ART Cathedral and the stunning aerial sculpture, Kite-Flyer, above Parchment Street in Winchester.

When she first moved to Dorset, sculpture was her main work, but she has always made collages and gradually she was drawn more and more to capture the subtle light and colours of the Dorset landscape and coastline in this complex layered art form. Marzia describes collagemaking as ‘sculpting with paper and painting at the same time.’

She compares the intricate medium, with its delicate painted torn and cut strips and fragments, to weaving. She says: ‘I try to replicate what I have experienced, not just visually in form and colour, but also in the impact created in my mind, the sensations experienced.’

Whatever the subject – landscape or still life – her collages are infinitely subtle, a tonal mix of layers of colour and texture that evoke the soul of her subject, in a way that words cannot explain.

A field of red The current Sladers Yard exhibition, Many Moons, puts Marzia’s beautiful collages alongside the powerful ceramic portals and totems made by her daughter Fiamma. They are a rare combination – a parent and

World Enough And Time Portal by Fiamma Colonna

child who have both achieved international success as artists, without compromise, while retaining a deep and genuine respect for each other’s work.

It’s not easy being the son or daughter of a famous artist – there is an expectation that the child will follow in the parent’s footsteps ... but it won’t be as good. On the other hand, there is a sense of disappointment if you

Blood-Swept Lands and Seas of Red, part of the First World War centenary art installation at the Tower of London, produced by Fiamma

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want to do your own thing.

Marzia and Fiamma have managed that difficult balance with elegance and skill. Each has an outstanding talent in her field, each loves and respects the other’s work, and each has a distinctive visual “voice.” Both have carried out large-scale commissions and both have work in important collections in the USA and in Europe.

Fiamma’s extraordinary talent was evident in her ceramics classes at Bryanston School, but she chose to go to Oxford University, where she read history and English literature.

From 2000 to 2008 she worked as a film director and producer for the BBC, ITV and Channel 4, making series based on historical biographies as well as filming fly-on-the-wall observational documentaries.

She played a major part in one of the biggest and most moving of the First World War centenary projects – Blood-Swept Lands and Seas of Red at the Tower of London. This vast “field” of red

The BV magazine, November ‘23

ART poppies was created by artists Paul Cummins and Tom Piper but they needed someone to produce the project, to make nearly 900,000 ceramic poppies.

Each poppy represented a British military fatality during the war.

She jokes that when she realised the scale of the undertaking – she herself had only one kiln!

– her hair stood up on end.

But with help from the various ceramic factories she contacted, the required 888,246 ceramic poppies were made and began to fill the Tower moat. Some of the factories had full order books running two or more years into the future, but Fiamma’s powers of persuasion are clearly as

great as her artistic talent!

When the installation period came to an end, Fiamma became the creator of the Poppy Tour – with support from the Arts Council, and the Duffield and Sainsbury Foundations, sculptural aspects of the field of poppies travelled to 16 sites around the UK, finishing at the Imperial War Museum.

A world more magical Describing her work, including her totems and portals, she says: ‘Sculptures transform outside areas, which otherwise can look dull and uninteresting, into dynamic stage settings. I want to create timeless entrances.

Mainly, I want to make the viewer feel more engaged, make the world feel less literal and more magical. The right combination of colour, scale and shape transforms the garden, atrium, entrance or courtyard into a stage set in which the viewer can walk “as if in a dream”.’

Sladers Yard gallery owner Anna Powell describes Many Moons as ‘a celebration of the years, of finding their personal paths, putting forward voices and ideas that are different but intriguingly compatible, with the pleasure of seeing each other’s work develop and often live side by side.’

The exhibition continues until 11th November.

Sunflowers by the sea, Marzia Colonna

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EE T FRVEN

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Candles on the Green Reflect

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Remember

18th November 6pm-8pm at Wimborne Minster

Visit lewis-manning.org.uk/candles to pre-order your candle Kindly sponsored by

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

The BV magazine, October ‘23

FOOD & DRINK

by Rachael Rowe

New community market in Horsington Local growers and producers are celebrating homegrown produce, promoting sustainability and fostering a sense of community “We’re walked past the garden place before and we’ve seen the signs for honey – but now we’ve actually met the people.”

This visitor to the new Horsington Community Market was delighted to discover the food and other goods produced in her village.

Horsington Village Hall had a quiet buzz as people perused the stalls – quiet, that is, until one gentleman burst into a rousing chorus of Food Glorious Food!

In fact, although there were only a few stalls, the breadth of produce was impressive – and plastic was noticeable by its absence. Crates of organic chard, fresh artichokes and coriander. Bags of apples and pears – yours for a donation.

Freshly baked cakes and breakfast muffins looked tempting and that Horsington Honey was rapidly snapped up by those in the know – and first-time buyers.

Stallholder Jeanne Mortarotti couldn’t hide her enthusiasm: ‘We’re hoping that, by starting this market, people will not only come and buy but also think about they can bring to sell. Perhaps they have too many beans or eggs or something else. It’s all about community. We worked with the PTA at the school – parents have made some of the cakes, and the children produced the apple and pear juice.’

The bottles of cloudy apple and pear juice – made from fruit from the school playground – were

Marcus Fergusson from Feltham’s Farm had a successful market selling his cheese as well as Lovington’s sourdough loaves

proudly displayed, the juicemaking a valuable skill, learned at the same time as lessons in minimising food waste.

‘We have free coffees to entice people in,’ Jeanne continues. ‘We’re hoping to create a positive spirit, with 20 per cent of the takings going straight to the school. The children loved making the juices, they will be so excited to see they have sold.’

The market included bread from nearby Lovington Bakery, fresh award-winning cheeses from Feltham’s Farm, plants for sale from Blooming Wild Nursery – and even whole snuggly sheep fleeces.

There was olive oil tasting from Baglio San Felice (Jeanne and her husband have an olive grove in Sicily), and villagers had a chance to order from the 2023 harvest.

Although not grown in Horsington

it was an excellent example of how the community is using their creativity to develop the market.

Naturally, there was a lot of interest in talking first hand to the producers to find out how the oil was produced.

The market is the brain-child of the energetic and creative Penny Nagle of Feltham’s Farm: ‘Many farmers and producers live and work locally. I felt it was a great opportunity to bring people together. It’s also about strengthening food resilience.

Everything here is excess produce – we’re actively reducing waste and of course it encourages us all to shop local. Also, as food producers, we’re constantly working – this is a lovely opportunity for us to meet and network as well!’

If the market is successful, the team hopes to hold further events on the first Saturday of each month at Horsington Village Hall. Although it’s a small market, everyone is enthusiastic to make it work and it could become something special for this rural community.

• The Horsington Community Market & Kitchen is held in St Margaret’s Hall on the first Saturday of the month 9.30 to 11am. Proper coffee and home made cakes available!

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

MEET YOUR LOCAL The South Paddocks sausage rolls are bestsellers

South Paddocks Three years ago they bought a smallholding – now the Cooper family make their living selling their nationally award-winning meat products It all started with a bacon roll at Stock Gaylard Oak Fair. The meat was quite simply among the best I have tasted, and I wanted to find out more about the people selling it – South Paddocks, a smallholding at Winterborne Houghton.

The business was launched in 2020, and there is currently a waiting list for both its pork and goat meat. I met owner Katie Cooper at the weekly Country Market in Sturminster Newton (each Tuesday morning in The Exchange) to find out the back story of that bacon roll: ‘My husband Matthew is a builder and I’m a florist – we’re really not from a farming background!

We also had a part-time catering “Matthew’s a business and were fed up with the builder and I’m a poor quality of florist. We’re not meat that we were from a farming seeing. Eventually background we decided to rear our own animals. ... we’re just a We bought our family of five, smallholding in and we do it all!

April 2020 and started out with two pigs, two Boer goats and four alpacas. As always seems to happen, things escalated! Our pigs are rare breed Oxford Sandy and Blacks, and we have Huacaya alpacas.

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Our pigs are all pedigree and reared by us. We have won a Highly Commended in the Love Local Awards and then last month discovered we are one of just two finalists for The British Pig Association’s Pedigree Pork Producer Of The Year award.

‘We were absolutely speechless!

‘At the start we took our time to pick the right breed, before we got the first pair. We then took our very first lot of pork to the Great Dorset Steam Fair and it flew off the stall! I remember thinking to Katie Cooper, owner of South Paddocks, at the Sturminster Newton Country Market

The BV magazine, November ‘23

MEET YOUR LOCAL myself “This is going to be alright!”

‘News spread fast about the taste, just by word of mouth. Now I bake sausage rolls at home and sell them, and we also have fresh quiches made with our bacon. There’s a waiting list for our pork, which is a nice reassurance that things are working. We do sell from the farm gate but by pre booking only – we are a working farm, and our “team” is just us; me, Matthew and our three children!

‘Our Marmite and cheese sausage rolls are our best sellers. People also like the fresh quiches – and our goat meat. Generally we’re not used to eating goat in the UK, though some people might have had “something tough” on holiday. But the Boer goats produce excellent meat and we have a waiting list for that too.

‘We do a great range of sausages – smoky maple and chilli, pork and apple, old English, marmalade, red onion chutney and sweet chilli. We’re also doing a custom-made sausage for Christmas which is cranberry, chestnut and sage.’

The South Paddocks meat is currently processed within 15 miles of the smallholding – even so, the Coopers are planning to have their own butchery on site next year, bringing the lifecycle of their product even closer to home.

The alpaca side Katie’s stall is also full of alpaca socks and woolly gifts including bird feeders. She works in collaboration with three other alpaca farms in Dorset to produce and sell the items as another offshoot of her business, both at local country markets and on Etsy (they’re great Christmas gift ideas).

However, it has not all been easy going. ,Starting a new business is always a steep learning curve, Katie acknowledges.

Boer goat Celeste with her twins

Petal with her six chunky piglets

‘Initially we fundamentally didn’t know the numbers of the breed, how many we should have – especially with the cost of feed. Now we know that there is a demand for our meat, we can build up the herd. It’s only really this year that we have had enough to sell. We don’t stock farm shops (even though we are asked) because we don’t have enough to be consistent suppliers – we have deliberately taken things very slowly. But we are proud that it has worked – and worked with our small numbers.

‘And we’re not farmers, we’re not from fourth generation farming families or anything like that.

Yet we have been successful.

‘The simple fact that people come back to us after tasting our meat is wonderful.

‘I can look around proudly now and say “we reared that; we did that.” And we learned it all on the job.

We learned fast that if you look after your animals, the meat looks after itself.’

Katie says that choosing a rare breed goes much deeper than picking a pretty animal: ‘People appreciate the rare breeds because of the flavour – our processes are much slower then is typical in modern farming but it’s completely worth it because the flavour is there.

‘We are just a family of five, and we do it all – from rearing our animals, to packing meat orders, baking the produce and selling it. It’s been a whirlwind, but we are living our dream.’

• southpaddocks.co.uk 81

The BV magazine, November ‘23

FOOD AND DRINK Savoury turkey, stuffing and cranberry swirls

Sweet or savoury dough swirls? You choose!

This is a fabulously versatile recipe – the same dough base can be made into either a sweet or savoury version. I’ve given both alternatives below – all you need to do is choose your filling! The recipe makes 12 rolls but it’s super easy to double up if you need to feed more people. Heather

Dough ingredients • • •

500g strong white flour 1tsp salt 1 x 7g packet of instant yeast

• • •

300ml milk 40g butter 1 egg (beaten)

Method

1. In a jug, warm the milk and butter in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds until the milk is lukewarm and the butter has just melted. Tip in the yeast and give the mixture a little whisk to combine. Leave for five to ten minutes until the mixture begins to froth.

2. In a big bowl, combine the flour and the salt. Once it’s bubbling, pour the warm liquid mixture into the bowl and add the beaten egg. Mix together until it forms a soft dough 3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and kneed until it becomes lovely and smooth – this takes about ten minutes by hand, or five-ish minutes in a stand mixer with a dough hook.

4. Wipe a little oil around the mixing bowl and put the dough back in. Cover with a clean tea towel or cling film and leave in a warm place to rise for one hour.

5. Grease and line a 9” x 13” (23cm x 33cm) baking pan that’s about 1” (3cm) deep.

6. After the hour, during which time hopefully your dough has doubled in size, place the dough on a lightly floured surface, and roll into a rectangle using a rolling pin. The dough will be quite springy, so this will take some work! It needs to be about 1cm thick.

7. Spread your chosen filling across the dough evenly.

8. Roll the dough into a sausage shape, starting with the longest edge off the rectangle, rolling the filling inwards. This makes the ‘swirl’ shape.

9. Cut the long sausage of dough into 2” (6cm) slices and place them into the baking pan, swirl side facing up.

You should get ten to 12 swirls, depending how large you cut the pieces.

10. Cover with a clean tea towel or cling film and leave in a warm place for another 45 minutes to rest.

11. Preheat the oven to 180º fan/Gas 5.

12. After 45 minutes, bake in the oven for 35 to 45 minutes, until the swirls are a golden brown and no longer soft in the centre.

Fillings

Cinnamon Swirls: Simply mix soft, light brown sugar and lots of ground cinnamon together and spread it over the dough; as much or as little as you like. Once baked and cooled, I drizzle over some simple water icing to finish.

Christmas Swirls: Make this into a seasonal, savoury version using pre-cooked turkey. If you don’t have any leftovers, slow-cook turkey breasts in chicken or vegetable stock to keep them lovely and juicy. Add stuffing and dried cranberries, crumbled up and scattered across the dough. It’s a great way to use up Christmas leftovers!

Other filling suggestions: For sweet swirls, try Nutella, jam or sultanas. For savoury, try a samosa filling or a spicy jerk chicken. Just remember to make sure any meat is pre-cooked as the baking time might not be long enough to cook the meat all the way through.

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The BV magazine, November Cinnamon swirl ‘23 Images: Heather Brown

Heather Brown is a special officer for the Guild of Food Writers, and has worked in the food industry for 20 years.

83 She is a food writer and photographer, offering one-to-one help to local businesses for content and websites.

The BV magazine, November ‘23

FOOD & DRINK

The local food revolution: Love Local, Trust Local Celebrating British sustainability: from farm to plate, LLTL founder Barbara Cossins is passionate about locally-sourced food Our British farmers and producers work continually through all four seasons to ensure that the food on our tables is truly sustainable whenever possible.

Sustainability has become a buzz word – especially in the catering industry. The provenance of all we eat is important; and it needs to be locally-sourced and from a replenishable source in order to be truly sustainable.

Education is key, particularly in catering and hospitality. It’s shocking how little many people understand about the food they are eating, where it comes from and how it was reared and produced before it arrived on their plates.

We have to try and get everyone on the same page, across all types of business, so that as many people as possible have a good understanding of where their food has come from and what the ingredients are that they are eating.

We have it right here In my book, eating local is what’s best. If you can source and eat seasonal food from close by, then you are on to a winner.

I am always sad to read about other countries’ fish and meat being bought and sold on our British menus, when we have exactly the same already here in the UK. We’re importing food that we don’t need, simply to foster reciprocal trade agreements with governments in other countries.

This benefits neither the planet nor the public.

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We should be requesting British food in restaurants (and all catering establishments) whenever possible. It just makes sense. In Britain, we have a wonderful supply of fresh fish and we don’t eat and enjoy enough of it ourselves.

Our farmers here in Britain have the most dictated and regulated agriculture system, and the best farming practices in the world. Why wouldn’t you want to eat British-farmed meat? It is guaranteed antibiotic and hormone-free – not many countries can say the same.

While our standards are the best, we are at a disadvantage when competing to produce cheap food. But remember, those few pennies you might save on cheap imported food could make all the difference to our farmers if you choose to buy British.

The power of the market Britain is one of the few countries in the world where the supermarkets decide the prices paid to the farmers. It is an unfair system – enormous corporations have so much power over our food production

industry. We all need to get behind our farmers, growers and producers in order to become a voice for the future – before it’s too late.

Love Local Trust Local is a food label that was created by farmers in 2018, in order to educate the public on what is grown, caught, reared, brewed or crafted right here in Britain. Each Love Local Trust Local county can proudly have its own flag displayed to show where its food is grown; to explain soil types, to showcase vegetables, fruit, meats, cheese, beers and wines that have been produced in that county. What a wonderful thing to be showing off your own county to the rest of the UK and the world!

There are so many things that we need to learn about food.

For example, did you know that Silver Spoon sugar is produced in England from British sugar beet?

It’s a great one to buy – and such a simply choice to make. Do stop to read labels in shops and on the food that you buy.

Talk to your butcher, greengrocer and farm shop about the foods you choose – it can make such a big difference.

LoveLocalTrustLocalAwards.co.uk

The BV magazine, November ‘23

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

OUT OF DOORS All images: Charlotte Tombs

To lift or not to lift?

It’s the annual dahlia dilemma: flower farmer Charlotte Tombs looks at the pros and cons of different ways to protect your tubers from a frosty fate What shall I do with my dahlia tubers? Do I leave them in? Do I dig them up and store them over winter? As with life, there are no easy answers, and pros and cons to both methods.

Dahlias are from Mexico – the tubers help feed them, but the tuber is fleshy and can rot or freeze.

I like to think of them as tender perennials; with the right care they will come back year after year.

Coming from Mexico they don’t like continual freezing temperatures – they will rot very quickly if they are left to sit in water or those fleshy tubers are touched by frost.

The pros of lifting • By lifting dahlia tubers, you can check them over for disease. You can also firmly compost that one which was sold to you as ‘palest apricot with a hint of peach’ but actually 86

Charlotte offers workshops throughout the year - please see northcombe.co.uk for further details.

The BV magazine, November ‘23

OUT OF DOORS

• • •

turned out to be the most hideous yellow. Do that now; you’ll only forget and then regret it when it flowers next summer!

Split the tubers when you lift them and you make more plants for free – how is that not a win win situation?

You’ll know by early spring if the tubers have survived, giving you time to replace them with new dahlias.

You can plant them somewhere different each year, trying new areas.

The cons of lifting • It’s time-consuming to lift if you have lots of dahlia tubers!

• Lifting isn’t risk-free: the tubers need to be properly stored or they’ll rot. They also need to be kept somewhere frost-free, and checked every so often. But if they’re kept too dry and warm, they can dry out completely, never recover ... and still die.

The pros of leaving • You don’t have the hard work and worry of storing them correctly. All you need to do is add a thick layer of mulch over them.

• Tubers left in the ground will start to sprout sooner, flower earlier, and have even more flowers as the tuber hasn’t been disturbed.

The cons of leaving • They will rot if they have not been sufficiently mulched or left to sit in water.

• You won’t know if they have survived the winter until they start to sprout again. If they have rotted, you may find it hard to replace them.

Hedge your bets?

So whether you lift or leave your dahlias, there is a risk of losing them if you don’t do it correctly.

What do I do?

I hedge my bets!

I lift some, but I do leave the lion’s share in the ground – meaning I lost a lot of varieties last winter, as it was a particularly harsh one.

I am in a frost pocket, but I have free draining soil and I put down a thick layer of mulch after we’ve had two frosts, which will put the dahlias into dormancy. I also over-plant with my ranunculus corms once they are sturdy plants and these have a low tunnel over them, which also helps to protect the dormant dahlia tubers.

Any questions please ask!

I’m running various Christmas wreath workshops. Spaces fill fast, so don’t delay and avoid disappointment. If you’d like to organise a workshop for friends or work colleagues, the minimum is six. Contact me for more information – see full details on Facebook.

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

OUT OF DOORS

The Voice of the Allotment

Feeling the season turn

Barry’s root veg crop from a single day in October

October’s activities on the allotment included harvesting even tender plants and the start of a new season’s harvest, says Barry Cuff October was a warm month, with the temperature rising above 20ºC on some days and only two slight white grass frosts around the middle of the month.

It’s not been cold enough to kill off the tender plants such as courgettes and French beans – they slowed down but still kept producing.

The soil was still workable, allowing plots to be cleared of weeds and old crop material; we aim to have all vacant parts of the plot clear and ready to be manured and mulched with homemade compost in November.

October’s allotment diary: On the 29th and 30th September we staked and tied our Brussel sprout plants, dug our first leeks, harvested carrots, beetroot, runner and French beans, winter radish and cut some excellent side shoots of Ironman calabrese.

We also sprayed our whole brassica area with boron, as the plot is deficient in this trace element – we have observed symptoms of this deficiency over the last few years.

1st – Clearing weeds and plant material from this year’s pulse area, and we lifted two celery heads.

3rd – Harvested carrots, oriental salad leaves and winter radish, plus some nice raspberries.

4th – Cut the grass paths. Worked on our new strawberry bed, removing weeds and runners (potted up about 30 of the runners).

5th – Picked tomatoes and a few sweet peppers from the greenhouse.

6th – Dug our first parsnip and celeriac. Harvested courgettes, salad leaves, French beans and 88

raspberries, and weeded the leeks.

7th – High temp of 24ºC! Removed all the sweetcorn plants and weeded the area.

8th – Had our first parsnip for lunch; good, but they need frosts to improve their taste. Ordered our seed from Kings Seeds.

10th – Cut our first Snow Prince cauliflower and our first Rossa Di Treviso radicchio – also picked a few more raspberries.

11th – Weeded the winter salad patch and staked and tied the purple sprouting broccoli plants.

13th – Harvested calabrese, leeks, runner beans and courgettes.

15th – The first grass frost of the season. Harvested winter squashes – seven Crown Prince, five Butterfly butternut and five sweet dumpling.

16th – Cleared the squash area of plant material and weeds and dug an area for garlic.

17th – Planted 40 cloves of garlic. Cut our first Chinese cabbage and picked calabrese. Cut the grass paths.

20th – Harvested carrots, parsnip, leeks, celeriac, winter radish and salad leaves.

22nd – Picked the last few runner beans and removed the plants and canes.

25th – Dug a few leeks and pulled a few spring onions, plus a Green Utah celery.

26th – Exciting day: the seed order arrived! We had 45 packets in total – 39 vegetables, two herbs and four garden flowers.

During the sunny days this month it’s been lovely to see that the ivy flowers in our hedge have been alive with bees, flies, wasps and butterflies.

The BV magazine, November ‘23

ADVERTORIAL

OUT OF DOORS NEWS

A hub of winter fun!

Good times at Thorngrove: join us for festive fun, Breakfast with Santa, craft sessions, and more! Making memories in our cosy community hub By the time you read this, for most of us, there is just ONE pay day remaining before Christmas.

This means here at Thorngrove we are shifting fully into festive mode! Decorations, gifts, real Christmas trees, and our festive events. It can be a little overwhelming from the retail perspective, but at the same time, Christmas is about making memories, spending time with loved ones, and having fun – and here at Thorngrove, we want to be part of that with you!

In October we held our first children’s craft sessions for almost a year – we wanted to send a huge THANK YOU to everyone who attended. They went brilliantly and the creations by the small craftspeople have been shared proudly on our social media. We’re going to ensure we host these during as many school holidays possible as they’re always so much fun, and it’s great to meet so many members of the community.

What else is on at Thorngrove?

Our Christmas event for children is Breakfast with Santa, taking place on Tuesday 19th December, with both morning and afternoon (ssshhhh, we can have a late breakfast!) sessions. Join us in The Secret Garden Café as Father Christmas himself will be handing out gifts to every child, and reading a Christmas story too.

Tickets will be available vie Eventbrite and should be on sale by the time you read this. Booking by 1st December is essential!

Our Christmas Wreath Making workshops are returning – at the time of writing we’re finalising the dates, so keep your eyes on our social media and website for details (or drop in and see us).

Saturday 11th November we have a Decoupage

workshop hosted by Laura Jackson of Summer Lane Handcrafted Gifts. There are a few spaces left so please get in touch if you’d like to book!

You can also pre-order your real Christmas trees from us; visit our website or pop in and see us to ensure you get yours! FREE delivery to the local area around Gillingham too.

Our amazing lunch offer in the café has been so popular that we’ve recently expanded it to every weekday – Buy one lunch, get one FREE! Ben and the team in the café are often making little changes, so there’s bound to be something new to try if you want to stop by again – it’s the perfect place for a catch-up with friends and to pick up a Christmas gift this November.

We do hope you’ll visit us as the festive season arrives – our small team is working incredibly hard behind the scenes to be one of the best destinations in the area. Our calendar for next year is already filling up too; we can’t wait to share more details with you!

• ThorngroveGardenCentre.co.uk The half term childrens craft workshops were a huge success!

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The BV magazine, November ‘23

OUT OF DOORS

Tidy up time!

Eryngium planum, or Blue Sea Holly

It’s November, and this month’s jobs are almost all about the final clearup for winter – with a little planning ahead, says gardener Pete Harcom It’s time to finish the winter preparations! There are still a few more jobs to get done in the garden this month – before the Christmas rush!

It might be November, but we can still get some good dry days to finish up outside before the harshest of the winter weather.

Your jobs list • Clear any faded and dying annual climbers such as sweet peas from their supports.

• When clearing up flower beds, do try to keep off the soil if it’s wet to avoid compacting it – use wooden boards to spread your weight.

• Clear up fallen leaves and put them in plastic bags or in a heap to rot down as leaf mould (which may take a year or so). This can then be used as a mulch.

• Cover and protect agapanthus plants with mulch or garden compost.

Straw can also be used for protecting half-hardy plants.

Alpines planted in the garden can have a gravel mulch, or, if they are in containers, they 90

will benefit from covering with straw (or simply bring them into the cold greenhouse for the winter).

Watch the compost Keep on top of the compost heap by turning it regularly.

Keep it moist and mixed well with shredded paper – if the heap gets heated well, nettles and some weeds can be composted.

Do not compost any of the ‘difficult’ weeds such as bindweed, ground elder or dock.

Leave the heads It is a good idea to leave your plants with attractive seed heads – like rudbeckia, sea holly (eryngium), teasels, love-inthe-mist and any ornamental grasses – as these will provide valuable food for birds in the winter months (and can also be used for indoor flower arrangements!). Just cut down the old seed heads in spring, when the new growth appears.

Bulb it There is still time to plant your spring bulbs and bare rooted trees and shrubs before the

colder weather. Don’t panic if you haven’t got round to it yet!

Autumn show-offs Japanese maples, or acers, are particularly spectacular at this time of year with their rich autumn colours. They can be planted in the ground or in pots this month and will benefit from sheltered semi-shady spots in the garden.

Sowing seeds This is a nice job to do at this time of year. Just a few of those I strongly suggest sowing this month are sweet peas, ajuga reptans (really good for ground cover), cornflowers, astrantias, corydalis solida and allium sphaerocephalon.

Eryngium (sea holly) is particularly attractive and can be sown now in a cold greenhouse.

The seeds can take a while to germinate, but they are worth it – and bees love them.

Lastly ...

After all that is done, take a break and browse through your seed and garden catalogues – you need to start making a plan for next year!

FARM TALES

The case of the Spanish oranges Andrew Livingston considers the UK’s freedom to roam and a misadventure involving oranges and an angry farmer for which he definitely wasn’t to blame Last week the Labour Party U-turned on its promise As my parents went through Pops’ possessions, to create a ‘Freedom to Roam’ over the English regaling us and each other with tales of their countryside, should they be elected. Since the Land childhood, my brother Jamie and I began to get Reform Act of 2003, there has been Freedom to restless. And, like all restless children, we started Roam across the Scottish countryside and Labour to prat around. Thankfully, the English owners of planned to implement the same across England. the house saw we were beginning to irritate our That was, they did ... until various landowners’ parents and turned to their daughter. ‘Why don’t groups kicked up a stink. you take the boys outside to play?’

As it stands, there is a right to roam on only eight She was probably around 13, a similar age to per cent of English land. Labour still says that they my brother (please note I was the youngest and will look to increase that percentage, but without a therefore most definitely NOT the ringleader. I blanket ‘freedom’ across all of the countryside. therefore can’t be held to blame for what was to I love walking our Dorset countryside. come ... can I?).

The sights from the top of our Iron Age It didn’t take long before the three of forts are breathtaking. Even the view ‘It was brutal. us grew bored with the small private from our farm – when it’s not draped courtyard – so we jumped the walls into It was vicious. the neighbouring fields to go and find in thick fog, obviously – is incredible.

But my God it further adventure. Being at the top of Of course, I respect the countryside code. I stick to the path, close the a valley, the neighbouring fields were was fun’ gates, keep dogs on leads. ‘Leave only the perfect landscape and climate for footprints and take only memories’ and growing fruit. all that nonsense ...

It’s been 18 years ... and I’m still not too Last month I aired all of my dog’s dirty laundry, so sure who decided to pick the first orange. it’s only fair that I be honest with you now. There Whoever started it, utter carnage ensued. was one occasion I did not follow the countryside Up and down the rows of trees we chased each code. I think it’s safe to say I really let myself down. other, snatching at the fruit on the trees as we went, viciously slinging them in hopes of maiming Las naranjas one of the other two in the group. It was brutal. It It was September 2005, and in my defence I was was vicious. But, my God it was fun! just a chubby little nine-year-old with many of life’s Unfortunately, where there is land, there is nearly lessons still to learn. My transgression was not in always a landowner. Once the furiously gruff our beautiful English countryside – it was, in fact, a Spanish farmer in his scuffed cords and white vest Spanish error. had caught one of us by the ear, we knew we were In the 90s, my grandfather Pops retired to Spain done for.

– our visit in 2005 was for his funeral. Obviously As fast as we’d jumped onto his land we were it was an emotional time for the whole family, dragged back across it and into the house. The especially my dad and uncle (who, it seemed to me, three of us stood in absolute silence as the farmer had to partake of a lot of fine Spanish wine and raged and shouted at both the owners of the house food to recover from the trauma). and my family. Despite the language barrier even A day or two after the funeral, the whole family my nine-year-old brain knew we had messed up. travelled to Pops’ home in the Alicante countryside. Big time.

It sat at the top of a hill and overlooked a stunning Our parents eventually laughed about it, but still to valley – to be fair, it was a view that would this day I shudder with fear as I pass through the challenge anything Dorset had to offer! fruit aisle in the supermarket.

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FARMING

NFU Education sparks passion for farming at Number 10 Young learners explore farming and food at 10 Downing Street in a special Lessons at 10 event connecting children with British produce

Akshata Murty, the Prime Minister’s wife hosts a Lessons at 10 in collaboration with the National Farming Union where students from Countess Gwyth Primary school took part in a Farming StemTERPRISE activity session in 10 Downing Street.

Forty local schoolchildren were recently lucky enough to join NFU Education at 10 Downing Street for a tailor-made lesson on food and farming.

The Year 5 and 6 pupils from Countess Gytha Primary School in Yeovil, Somerset, were invited into Number 10 to explore the world of agriculture as part of the ‘Lessons at 10’ series, an initiative organised by the Prime Minister’s wife, Akshata Murty.

The lesson introduced the children to British food and farming through NFU Education’s Farming STEMterprise project and challenged them to invent their own finger foods using a range of British ingredients. And the challenge didn’t stop there – the children also had to market their creations and explain the many benefits of using homegrown British produce.

Working in teams, they were supported by an NFU Education Farmers for Schools

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ambassador, who offered firsthand insights into how they produce high quality, climatefriendly, nutritious food. Hailing from Lancashire to Sussex, they were able to share their expert knowledge of their sectors in dairy, arable, horticulture and sheep farming.

NFU Education Manager Josh Payne said: ‘This event provided an exceptional learning opportunity for these children to understand the importance of the vital world of British farming.

It’s a brilliant programme, and it’s wonderful to see Mrs Murty recognising the value of teaching key STEM subjects through the lens of food and farming.

‘It’s important to make agriculture relevant and interesting to young people so they can become more involved in the countryside and rural areas as they grow older.

‘It’s been great to run this session and hopefully it has

not only excited the children about food and cooking, but also got them thinking about where ingredients come from and the work that goes into their production. This experience is also a chance to meet real-life farmers, which is a fantastic way to bridge the gap between the field and the plate.

‘I’m sure this ‘Lessons at 10’ event will leave a lasting impact on these children, and we hope to inspire them to appreciate the importance of British produce.’

Ms Murty said: ‘It was wonderful to welcome pupils from Countess Gytha Primary School to Downing Street today for a special farming and food Lessons at 10 event.

‘It’s so important for children to connect with where our food comes from and experience great British produce. Thank you to everyone for coming and highlighting why we should back British farming.’

BADBURY RINGS Point To Point Wimborne, dorset, DT11 9LJ

order tickets online

A Fun Family Day Out

FAMILY DOG RACING, BIG SCREEN 11AM LIVE FROM the cenotaph

12th November | Sunday

Gates Open: 10am | First Race: 12.30pm CARD & CASH on the gate For more information and tickets visit our social media

@badburyringspointtopointcourse www.pointtopoint.co.uk

The BV magazine, November ‘23

EQUESTRIAN

Triumphs and Tough Decisions for Toots Toots Bartlett reflects on the highs and hurdles of the 2023 eventing season, with decisions to make about her talented horses’ futures And just like that the 2023 eventing season is over! Perhaps a stranger season then most with the weather effecting a huge part of the spring campaign, but we managed to have a successful last few events.

After a bad fall at Cornbury horse trails we had a few weeks off before Cor Y Taran finished his season with a win at Swalcliffe in Oxfordshire. He went on to jump clear at his first CCI3*-S at Bicton last weekend. He’s an incredibly exciting horse! Being only seven and with very little time and experience behind him he coped amazingly in all three phases, and he made the tough cross country course with its long hills and sticky, muddy ground feel very easy. He will now have a very deserved month off out in the field (where he will be joined by my lovely four-year old) for a holiday, allowing tired muscles time to repair and relax.

My plan for next year is to get Cor Y Taran to Blenheim for the 8/9yo CCI4* Championship next Autumn – I will make a proper winter plan with both my trainers on how and what we need to do to achieve this goal.

Tough business decisions Freestyle R has taken a new path recently and we are exploring the route of pure dressage with him – an area he has always specialised and excelled in. I’m having an interesting time learning pure dressage movements such as multiple changes and pirouette work. He achieved a very exciting 70 per cent at an Advanced Medium recently, givingh him the win.

He is now training towards Prix St George and he is such a quick

Toots on Freestyle R, who is to move to pure dressage – she has made the tough decision to sell him

learner. Sadly Freestyle is going onto the market – although I am loving learning new tricks on him my focus will always be eventing, and I know he will give someone a huge amount of pleasure and success in pure dressage. Horses like Freestyle – safe, sound, kind, rideable and with a balance of mind and action – are incredibly rare and although I know he can fly in a new career and partnership it will break my heart to say goodbye. I feel this is the first proper ‘business’ decision I have had to make as I try and establish myself and it has not been an easy one!

Charlie has won 11 out of 11 of his recent competitions, whether dressage or combined training, and this little horse has so much talent and scope. He is a

stunning horse to look at and is jaw-droppingly beautiful under saddle. He belongs to my sister and he too needs to move on to a new partnership to allow me to bring in some youngsters to produce to event.

It is very hard producing such lovely animals to then sell them, but as I grow older and understand more about building a business, it has slowly become a sad inevitablity.

As the 2023 event season draws to its close I have more time on my hands for more freelance riding. If you have any horses you would like schooled/ jumped or merely exercised please do get in touch. I have had many seasons schooling hunters and improving them as well as youngsters. tootsbartletteventing.com 95

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EQUESTRIAN

Donkeys: charming mischief Donkeys are a frequently misunderstood desert animal, says Sally Cooper, owner of Mr Pebbles, the man-donkey who steals hearts as well as glasses The time has come – I have to accept that my latest baby is now not a boy, but a man ... ish.

Mister Pebbles is a 14-month old donkey. We initially called him Fluffy – yes, due to the long white hair of the tiny fluffball. Now, however, it is becoming eyewateringly clear that he is very much a man-donkey. Confirmed recently when the visiting arborist asked me why I had a five-legged donkey!

I don’t think that it is an exaggeration when I say that as a country we are very much under the spell of the donkey. Most of our visitors stop to speak with the donkeys before knocking at the door to see us mere humans. but as a nation we really don’t

know much about the real life version of this much-loved cartoon creature. For starters they are equids, not equines – far better described as more like dogs than horses.

It is naturally a desert animal, so it’s not a good idea to treat donkeys in the same way as a horse. For a start, they aren’t waterproof so they always need access to a roof over their head.

Grass is not their natural choice of fodder, either – they need a lot of fibre, so tree branches and leaves (mine prefer willow), cut nettles and lots of thistles (apparently delicious).

Woe betide any unknowing donkey owner who doesn’t feed them enough chunky fibre

Mr Pebbles at ten months old

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– they’ll soon start to eat the stable, the fence and the gate ...

The noise, the naughtiness Influenced by their desert background, donkeys are also great stampers. If they find a dog that is not a family member in their field, they latch onto it like an Exocet missile and will stamp at (or on) it with their front legs.

To be fair, you never know when you will need to stamp on a snake do you?

Then there is the bray, that Eeyore sound. The noise, the volume, the pleading eyes ... our neighbour’s donkeys are a mile away and they can talk quite happily to ours without leaving their field. Well, deserts are big places! This of course also explains the huge ears.

Bonus fact: once they start to bray they can’t stop!

Their absolute favourite pastime is humans. In order to keep you engaged they will try anything – removal of your glasses and dropping them in the water trough ... standing in the middle of your exit route ... shadowing your every side-step ... or simply putting your coat zip in their mouths and walking in the opposite direction.

I challenge anyone having a bad day not to feel more upbeat after a donkey chat.

Always a double act So the time has come for Rodney, our older donkey, to escort Mister Pebbles to the vet for castration. Donkeys are relaxed when in pairs and should never be separated – the vets always expect a double act. I can’t help thinking that Rodney will have a wry, knowing smile on his face as they go in!

The BV magazine, November ‘23

EQUESTRIAN Mr Pebbles with Rodney Images: Sally Cooper

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WILDLIFE Sometimes the best days come from the simplest things Image: Jane Adams

Falling back in love with autumn

Join wildlife columnist Jane Adams on a nostalgic journey as she rediscovers the magic of autumn, sharing the joy of re-connecting with nature 98

The BV magazine, November ‘23

WILDLIFE As a chill breeze ruffles the undressed trees, it brings with it a sense of excitement for the month ahead. At least, it used to ... when I was young.

Which got me wondering – how can I recapture that love?

Because I really did love autumn when I was young. I couldn’t get enough of it.

With the ground a canvas of russet, amber and gold, pavements turned into a rustling playground. A gang of us would spend hours searching for conkers, stuffing them into already-bulging pockets, and even though conker competitions left our knuckles bruised and our shoes without laces, we couldn’t have cared less.

Then, as temperatures dropped, we’d crunch through frozen puddles, revelling in the feel of the ice exploding as it cracked deliciously under our feet.

Autumn was fun – and having fun stimulated our imaginations, encouraged questions, and sparked a deep (unrecognised) connection with nature.

This is probably how many of us remember autumn.

But then we grow up.

We become serious and sensible.

Find partners and set up homes.

Bills, jobs and responsibilities weigh us down. We suffer setbacks, heartbreak, grief and loneliness. I’m not saying life is all doom and gloom, but when

Puddle Hornet jumping on an – guaranteed ivy flower to cheer up the gloomiest of days.

you’re an adult, autumn can sometimes feel ... well, a bit gloomy. I groan as the days get shorter and the sun loses its warmth. The other day I even caught myself comparing hot water bottles on Amazon!

However, I have friends who still love autumn – and I mean they

Wildlife walks and treats •

Red Squirrel walks and a cream tea Brownsea Island Visit the island out of season, enjoy a guided walk, see the red squirrels – and finish with a delicious cream tea at Brownsea Castle.

12:40 to 4pm on 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th November £30 includes ferry, entry, guided walk and cream tea Booking on National Trust website here

•

Welly Wednesday walks Kingcombe Nature Reserve A regular meeting – join the Dorset Wildlife Trust group for a walk on Kingcombe Meadows followed by an optional visit to The Kitchen at Kingcombe for a restorative cuppa.

10:30am to 12pm on 8th and 22nd November - FREE Booking on Dorset Wildlife Trust’s site here

really love autumn. What if I could love it again?

So, for the last few weeks, I’ve given myself a challenge.

Every day I search out piles of leaves, kicking them into the air, making myself (and passers-by) laugh. When I put the bins out, I’m stopping to appreciate the dazzling stars and moon before rushing back inside.

I pause and listen when I hear tawny owls and foxes calling, and I call back (even getting a reply sometimes). After it rains, I slosh through puddles in my wellies, and I’ll be jumping onto them after a frost just to hear the satisfying crack of the ice.

Welcome back, nine year-old me. Having fun, being silly and not worrying about what others might think, as well as really appreciating nature and the season around me, has helped.

Try it. You might enjoy it.

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WILDLIFE One of this year’s beaver kits in Dorset Image: ©Steve Oliver

New beaver kits!

The Dorset Beaver Project family are thriving in their wetland habitat, with another litter of kits this year, says DWT’s Jack Clarke Dorset Wildlife Trust is pleased to announce that Beaver kits are born with the ability to swim two more beaver kits were born at the Dorset but they stay close to their parents as they are Beaver Project site this year. Two adult beavers vulnerable to predators when young. For the first were released into an enclosed area in 2021 – and few weeks, kits feed on their mother’s breast since then, they have been hard at work creating milk, but within six weeks they begin eating their leaky dams across the site. In 2022 they leaves, aquatic plants and tree bark – of which expanded their family with three kits – the first to there is plenty in their enclosure! Beavers are be born in Dorset for more than 400 years. strict herbivores and never eat fish – a common Beavers are social animals that live in misconception. small family groups, typically consisting The four-hectare enclosed site in west We were of a dominant breeding pair and two Dorset currently provides ample space thrilled to generations of young. So DWT knew for the family of seven, but the trust there was the potential to see another is working closely with expert beaver discover litter of kits born this spring. We were ecologists to plan the next steps of the a second thrilled to discover a second generation project as the beaver family evolves, generation of to ensure these influential mammals of beaver kits, with two kits recorded so far in 2023. This brings the resident continue to thrive in the magnificent beaver kits family total to seven beavers (two wetland they have created. We are was born adults and five kits). The birth of these extremely excited to monitor the new kits is an extremely positive sign, progress of the beaver family – and we telling us the beavers are happy and thriving in look forward to sharing updates on the adorable their Dorset home. kits as they mature!

It took some time to confirm the total number Beavers are known as nature’s engineers and of kits, as they spend their first month within the their activities – including wetland creation by safety of the lodge – an underground chamber building dams and creating new channels – have and burrow system – before beginning to emerge the potential to increase biodiversity, filter out between dusk and dawn in early summer to pollution and slow water flow during storm events. explore the wetland surroundings with the rest of To find out more, and perhaps ‘adopt a beaver’ for their family. yourself or as a gift, visit dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk.

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READER’S PHOTOGRAPHY

Hide and seek Sarah Smith

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

Here be fairies Rob Hannam

The BV magazine, November ‘23

READER’S PHOTOGRAPHY

Eye Bridge Nicky Newman

Louise Revill Roe deer in the setting sun

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READER’S PHOTOGRAPHY

Boys will be boys Annette Gregory

Cormorant Mark Churchill

READER’S PHOTOGRAPHY Coots seeing red John Bishop

Jackdaw jokes Carl Bovis

Heron brouhaha Peter Corbin

READER’S PHOTOGRAPHY Goldcrest Dave Taylor

Brassy blue tit Rebecca Cooke

The BV magazine, November ‘23

READER’S PHOTOGRAPHY Night paint Phil Cutler

Spitfire start up Mike Nelson

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by Karen Geary, Nutritional Therapist DipION, mBANT, CNHC at Amplify

HEALTH

Winter wellness: how to keep your immune system strong Expert Karen Geary has your winter immunity essentials: how sleep, gut health, stress reduction and movement are bugging you The kids are back at school, and the weather has started to chill off – all signs that winter bugs are back. Keeping our immune system strong enough to fend off those bugs is a complex interplay of genetics, age, prior exposure and stress levels. However, there are some things we can all do to bolster our defences and make it through the winter season.

Focus on gut health We know that 70 per cent of our immune system lives in the gut; the bacteria residing there is called our gut microbiome and it plays a massive role in our immune response. The broader the range of bacteria, the better

that response.

This is what we should all do: • Eat prebiotic foods (these contain compounds that promote the growth of beneficial bacteria). Bananas, broccoli, cauliflower, leeks, onions, garlic, artichokes and oats are all good choices.

• Also eat probiotic foods (these contain live organisms that may improve the gut microbiome). They can be found in fermented foods such as kefir, yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, and kombucha.

• Incorporate a diverse range of plants into you​r diet. Up to 30 different plants a week is ideal – but don’t panic, this

•

•

•

includes herbs and spices, not just fruits and vegetables!

Do what you can.

Eat a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. A diverse and balanced diet can provide essential nutrients for a robust immune system.

Reduce sugar and alcohol intake. Both weaken your immune system by depleting your anti-viral defences.

If you’re someone who frequently catches a cold after drinking too much, that’s likely why!

Stay hydrated. Simply drink plenty of water – dehydration 107

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HEALTH

•

can weaken our body’s defence mechanisms.

Take vitamin D until next spring, as it is essential for optimal immune system function. Ideally, get tested before taking a supplement, but even the NHS recommends taking a vitamin D supplement during the winter months. A daily dosage of 1,000 to 2,000iu’s is generally enough to maintain levels for most people. You can find more information about vitamin D here, as well as details on how to get tested. Vitamin C, zinc and vitamin B12 also support the immune system.

While these can be taken in supplements, if your diet is poor, no amount of supplementation will help.

Sleep Poor sleep habits can wreak havoc on our immune system.

If you’re not consistently getting between 7 and 9 hours of sleep, you need to work on improving your sleep routine!

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Movement This doesn’t necessarily mean going to the gym three times a week or training for a halfmarathon! Just a short walk each day can be massively helpful.

Even better is ‘NEAT’ (nonReducing stress exercise activity thermogenesis), If you’re one of those people which describes how we burn who always comes down with calories when we are NOT a cold while on holiday, it’s a exercising – just from breathing, clear sign that you sleeping, eating need to find ways and cleaning. Here ‘If you’re to reduce stress. are some ways to Easier said than someone who incorporate NEAT into done in today’s your daily routine: frequently world, but taking • Avoid sitting for catches a cold more than an hour 15 minutes a day after drinking at a time. Get up and just for yourself and doing something too much, this do something active, you love can is likely why!’ even if it means make a significant walking to the next difference. It room, going up the could be enjoying a coffee stairs or stepping outside for with a friend, practising yoga, a few minutes of fresh air. meditating, singing in the shower In long meetings, consider or simply pottering in the garden. standing at the back of the If you are unlucky enough to room to stretch the legs. For become unwell, ensure you take Zoom meetings, turn off your enough time to recuperate fully. video and do a few sit-ups, Rest and recovery is vital. jumping jacks or press-ups.

They won’t miss you for a minute if there are others on the call.

• Track your steps. Download a steps app if you don’t have a tracker – you don’t need to reach 10,000 steps a day; just focus on improving from your current starting point and work up to 6,000.

There is no silver bullet for keeping our immune system in prime condition, but with small changes to your eating habits, sleep routine, stress management and movement, every little bit helps.

Everyone’s immune system is unique, and what works best for one person may not work for another. Tailor your approach to your specific needs and always consult a healthcare professional before you make changes if you have any underlying concerns about your health.

Sleep habits are highly personal, and it’s a matter of trial and error to find the right routine (find some tips for better sleep in Karen’s Three Surprising Ways To Sleep Better, Apr 22)

The BV magazine, November ‘23

No deadline for grief

HEALTH

Dorset Mind volunteer Annabel Goddard provides an insight into supporting the many complex emotions of suicide bereavement Trigger warning: this article contains themes of suicide that could be distressing. Please seek support via signposting at the end.

International Survivors of Suicide Day is 19th November – a day which unites those who have lost a loved one to suicide and are navigating bereavement, those who are finding their way after a suicide attempt and those caring for a loved one struggling with suicidal thoughts. It is an important day in the fight to draw attention to those affected by suicide – a topic we shouldn’t be afraid to talk about.

Bereavement is a complex subject – the process is different for different people. Losing a loved one to suicide can bring up so many unanswered questions and feelings. These can include wondering if you could have done more to prevent it or could have stopped it entirely.

You may be more like to have feelings of guilt when grieving a death you feel could have been preventable. While these difficult feelings are best discussed with a professional therapist, it is always important to remember you cannot blame yourself for the actions of another person and it could damage your own mental health.

Take your time Grieving is an important part of healing and you must allow yourself to take time. It might be weeks, months or even years before you feel back on track. There is no set time-frame, and accepting this could help put you at ease.

However you choose to grieve, make sure you stay in touch with those who care about you. Having a support system is important in helping you to feel less alone and you will be able to open up about what you’re going through.

Both you and others who may also be grieving will benefit from staying connected.

While grief may never go away, it will change and evolve during your life. In the early stages of bereavement it may be very painful and difficult to remember good times you shared with the person you’ve lost. But, in time, you may be able to remember them fondly, and without finding it searingly painful.

If you are supporting someone who is grieving a loved one lost to suicide, the best think you can

do is give them time and treat them with patience, kindness and sensitivity.

It can be tough watching the grief of someone you care about, but do make sure you discuss how you are prepared to care for them – ask them what they need, whether that is time and space, or if they perhaps want more company than usual, even if that is just a text to check in every day.

Support for you: • Visit dorsetmind.uk for local mental health support and ways to keep mentally healthy • Call Samaritans on 116 123 for free 24/7 emotional support • Call Dorset’s mental health helpline Connection for support on NHS 111 • Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger 109

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HEALTH

BRUTON SCHOOL FOR GIRLS TRUST BRUTON SCHOOL FOR GIRLS TRUST

BRUTON SCHOOL GIRLS TRUST BRUTON SCHOOL FORFOR GIRLS TRUST

(charity registration number 1085577-1) (charity registration number 1085577-1)

(charity registration number 1085577-1) (charity registration number 1085577-1)

('THE TRUST') ('THE TRUST')

TRUST') ('THE('THE TRUST')

PUBLIC NOTICE UNDER SECTION CHARITIES 2011 PUBLIC NOTICE UNDER SECTION 121121 (2)(2) OFOF THETHE CHARITIES ACTACT 2011

PUBLIC CONSULTATION PUBLIC CONSULTATION

REPRESENTATIONS INVITED BEFORE 4 December 2023 REPRESENTATIONS INVITED ONON OROR BEFORE 4 December 2023 Thisisisa anotice noticeforforthe the purposes section 121(2) Charities 2011.

This purposes ofof section 121(2) of of thethe Charities ActAct 2011.

BrutonSchool SchoolforforGirls Girls (charity registration number 1085577) trustee of the Trust hereby gives notice Bruton (charity registration number 1085577) as as thethe trustee of the Trust hereby gives notice thatthat proposestotodispose dispose certain land Bruton School Girls, Sunny Bruton, Somerset BA10 being it itproposes ofof certain land at at Bruton School forfor Girls, Sunny Hill,Hill, Bruton, Somerset BA10 0NT0NT being the the DesignatedLand Landreferred referred below way a freehold sale.

A plan of the land is attached to this notice.

Designated toto below byby way of of a freehold sale.

A plan of the land is attached to this notice.

TheThe landland beingmarketed marketed Knight Frank conjunction with land belonging to Bruton School Girls. isisbeing byby Knight Frank in in conjunction with land belonging to Bruton School for for Girls.

Anyonewishing wishingtoto make representations proposed disposal is invited to do so 4byDecember 4 December 2023 Anyone make representations onon thethe proposed disposal is invited to do so by 2023 in in writingtotoMrs MrsN NFenton, Fenton, Bruton School Girls, Sunny Bruton, Somerset BA10 0NT. writing Bruton School forfor Girls, Sunny Hill,Hill, Bruton, Somerset BA10 0NT. InfoBSG@brutonschool.com.

InfoBSG@brutonschool.com.

TheLand Land The LandatatBruton BrutonSchool School Girls, Sunny Hill, Bruton, Somerset BA10 within blue shading on the attached Land forfor Girls, Sunny Hill, Bruton, Somerset BA10 0NT0NT within thethe blue shading on the attached plan.

TheDesignated Designated Land which is the subject consultation, is an integral of the larger school campus, plan. The Land which is the subject of of thisthis consultation, is an integral partpart of the larger school campus, formerlyoccupied occupied Bruton School Girls. is visually identifiable attached plan, distinguished allallformerly byby Bruton School forfor Girls.

It isIt visually identifiable on on thethe attached plan, distinguished by by blueshading shadingand andextending extending acres (1.7 ha).

The land marked with a red outline outside scope of this blue toto 4.14.1 acres (1.7 ha).

The land marked with a red outline fallsfalls outside thethe scope of this consultation. consultation.

TheDesignated DesignatedLand Land encompasses both complete buildings segments of buildings, reflecting historical The encompasses both complete buildings andand segments of buildings, reflecting thethe historical evolutionofofthe theschool school campus across different titles land.

Segments of buildings within evolution campus across different titles of of land.

Segments of buildings thatthat fall fall within thethe Designated Land include Sunny Hill Nursery and the Main School along with tennis courts.

Buildings wholly Designated Land include Sunny Hill Nursery and the Main School along with tennis courts. Buildings wholly containedwithin withinthe the Designated Land include School Dining Room, three prefabricated buildings, contained Designated Land include OldOld School andand Dining Room, three prefabricated buildings, Hobhouse,and andthe the Visitor WCs. Hobhouse, Visitor WCs.

Proposal tocharity sell charity and charitable vary charitable purposes Proposal to sell land land and vary purposes Bruton School for Girls (charity registration number 1085577) formerly operated a school that name Bruton School for Girls (charity registration number 1085577) formerly operated a school underunder that name whichwhich closed in June 2022.

The school operated on land at Sunny Hill, Bruton, Somerset 0NTisthat is owned closed in June 2022.

The school operated on land at Sunny Hill, Bruton, Somerset BA10 BA10 0NT that owned partly partly

by Bruton School for Girls and partly byTrust the Trust (the School The Trust a parcel land within

by Bruton School for Girls and partly by the (the School Site).Site).

The Trust ownsowns a parcel of landofwithin the the School which the terms its trust be used onlyitsfor its objects, known as 'Designated '. Aofplan of School Site Site which the terms of itsoftrust say issay to is betoused only for objects, known as 'Designated Land '.Land A plan the Designated is shown the blue shading attached. the Designated LandLand is shown withwith the blue shading attached. objects of Trust the Trust The The objects of the are: are: provision day or and day boarding and boarding school in or Bruton near Bruton the education girlsboys and boys The The provision of a of daya or day school in or near for theforeducation of girlsofand (provided not have attained theofage of eight by ancillary or incidental (provided that that suchsuch boysboys shallshall not have attained the age eight years)years) and byand ancillary or incidental educational activities and other associated activities forbenefit the benefit the community. educational activities and other associated activities for the of theofcommunity.

Since the closure of Bruton School for Girls, objects cannot be carried the Trust.

The trustees Since the closure of Bruton School for Girls, thesethese objects cannot be carried out byout thebyTrust.

The trustees have have therefore provisionally determined subject torepresentations any representations thatbe may be received this Consultation therefore provisionally determined that that subject to any that may received in thisinConsultation in interests the interests of both charities tothe sellSchool the School and steps that steps should be taken to permit the to Trust to it is it inisthe of both charities to sell Site, Site, and that should be taken to permit the Trust sell land the land to enable the proceeds of a of sale the Designated be applied to other charitable sell the and and to enable the proceeds of a sale theofDesignated Land Land to be to applied to other charitable purposes. purposes.

Proposal Proposal trustees therefore propose an application is made the Charity Commission for England and Wales The The trustees therefore propose that that an application is made to thetoCharity Commission for England and Wales to: to: (1) permit the sale of Designated the Designated (1) permit the sale of the Land;Land; and and (2) enable the proceeds ofsale the sale ofDesignated the Designated be used forfollowing the following new objects: (2) enable the proceeds of the of the Land Land to beto used for the new objects: advancement of education at King's School, Bruton ('KSB'), including of King's The The advancement of education at King's School, Bruton ('KSB'), including all or all anyorofany King's School,School, Hazlegrove Preparatory School and other any other school owned or operated anyand timeatand Hazlegrove Preparatory School and any school owned or operated

by KSBbyatKSB anyattime theat the nursery school known as Sunny Hill Nursery Nursery'): nursery school known as Sunny Hill Nursery ('the ('the Nursery'): by provision the provision of bursaries to girls theof age 18to and to up boys theofage 8 at either or both by the of bursaries to girls up toup thetoage 18of and boys to up thetoage 8 atofeither or both of KSB the Nursery, and being girls being referred to below the Beneficiaries; of KSB and and the Nursery, suchsuch boys boys and girls referred to below as theasBeneficiaries; and and by supporting activities, providing facilities or equipment support or of both KSBthe and the by supporting activities, providing facilities or equipment whichwhich support eithereither or both KSBofand Nursery, advance the education the Beneficiaries.

Nursery, and and advance the education of theofBeneficiaries.

Anyone wishing to make a representation onProposal the Proposal is invited by 4 December 2023 in writing to Anyone wishing to make a representation on the is invited to doto sodo byso 4 December 2023 in writing to N Fenton, Bruton School for Girls, Sunny Hill, Bruton, Somerset InfoBSG@brutonschool.com.

MrsMrs N Fenton, Bruton School for Girls, Sunny Hill, Bruton, Somerset BA10BA10 0NT. 0NT. InfoBSG@brutonschool.com.

3 November 2023 110

3 November 2023

3 November 3 November 20232023

The BV magazine, November ‘23

BUSINESS NEWS

Are you able to offer a little help or support for Dorset’s care leavers?

Dorset Council is calling for the local community, organisations and businesses to back careexperienced young adults as they transition to adulthood.

Care leavers often face the challenges of pursuing education or employment while developing life skills, without the family and friend networks that do so much to support other young people.

Hall & Woodhouse has been a tremendous resource for Dorset’s care leavers, providing employment opportunities for young people who may have faced challenges entering the workforce due to their backgrounds or low selfconfidence. The local firm organised information days and activities, including a cooking skills workshop, at their head office and brewery site in Blandford, leading to some care leavers securing jobs with Hall & Woodhouse across Dorset.

Anthony Woodhouse, Chairman for Hall & Woodhouse, expressed his delight at being part of the Dorset Council Care Leavers programme and the opportunity it presented to support young talent in hospitality.

Last year, Sky launched Sky Up, a programme created to tackle digital inequality, providing vital skills training through a dedicated £10 million fund.

As part of Sky Up, the Tech Grants initiative helps young people leaving the care system by providing them with devices, connectivity and training.

Working with Spectra and Dorset Council, 50 local young people received a technology

bundle including laptop, rucksack, & digital active pen, and 18-months internet connection. The Dorset care leavers were also invited to a wellbeing event held at Bournemouth Football club, with a stadium tour and workshop teaching new ways to manage stress and anxiety.

The young people also attended a celebration event at Sky’s head office – the day included a campus and Sky Studios tour and talks from Simon Thomas (Soccer Sunday host) and inspirational care-leaver, Ashley John-Baptiste. They took part in workshops and attended a session on future possible career opportunities at Sky and the media industry.

Cllr Byron Quayle, Dorset

Council’s Portfolio holder for Children, Education, Skills and Early Help said; ‘We want our care-experienced children and young people to thrive, develop their full potential and enjoy a settled adulthood.

‘We are grateful for the opportunities and support that Hall & Woodhouse and Sky offer to our young people – they are making such a difference.

‘We’d like to encourage more local businesses and organisations to consider how they could be part of Dorset’s initiative. If you’re willing to help, please do get in touch.’

• To find out more or to offer support and opportunities, please contact Lucy.Benham@ dorsetcouncil.gov.uk 111

Pre-paid funeral plans

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

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JOBS

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JOBS

Join the Sturfit Legacy: Shape the Future of Community Wellness in Sturminster Newton!

For over 15 remarkable years, the Sturminster Newton Leisure Centre, operated by the charity Sturfit, has stood as a testament to community spirit and collaboration.

At its core, Sturfit isn't just a leisure centre. It's a movement, a commitment, and a promise to champion the wellness and sports needs of Sturminster Newton and its neighbouring parishes.

Here's What We Believe in and Strive For:

✅ An all-accessible leisure centre, where the entire community finds its fit. ✅ Top-notch sports facilities, especially curated to aid our local schools and vibrant community groups. ✅ A proactive approach to holistic health, ensuring everyone,

irrespective of age or background, experiences the joys of fitness and well-being.

Are YOU Our Next Trustee?

As we stand on the brink of our next exciting chapter, we're on the lookout for two or three dynamic individuals who share our vision.

As a trustee, you'll not only partake in, but also actively shape the transformative journey of Sturfit. It's more than a position; it's an opportunity to sculpt a legacy, making lasting contributions that resonate with every home in our community.

Who's the Perfect Fit? No need to be a sports enthusiast or carry prior experience! What we treasure most is your unique life story, the diverse skills you bring, and an undying passion for community betterment.

Feeling the Call?

Think this could be your calling? Let’s chat. Drop a note to Courtenay@sturfit.org, telling us a bit about yourself. Join us and make a difference!

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November at its best—with a sort of delightful menace in the air.

– Anne Bosworth Greene

GOT SOME NEWS? MAYBE THINK A LOCAL (OR YOUR OWN) BUSINESS WOULD MAKE A GOOD FEATURE? KNOW SOMEONE DOING GOOD THINGS THAT WE SHOULD TALK ABOUT? Send a quick email to

editor@BVmagazine.co.uk

WANT TO ADVERTISE? Get in touch with Courtenay to chat about what you're looking for:

advertising@BVmagazine.co.uk 01258 472572

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Next Publication Date: 1st December (deadline 24th November) Then...

12th January 2nd February

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October sunset from Okeford Hill