The Blackmore Vale 2020

Blackmore

Vale

THE DIGITAL ONE...

November '20

ISSN 2634-8810

The

cover image: Oak leaves in a rare spot of sun this week | Courtenay Hitchcock

Letters Dinah's Hollow Virtual Remebrance Local News Looking Back | Roger Guttridge Meet Your Local - The Cross Keys Inn Tales from the Vale | Andy Palmer View from Westminster | Simon Hoare MP

Rural Matters - CPRE Advent Calendars for Teens Book Corner Then & Now | Roger Guttridge FREE Lockdown Resources Voice of the Blue Light Readers Photos Wild Corner | Brigit Strawbridge A Vet's Voice Rescue Animals Take a Hike New Adventures | Paul Birbeck Voice of the Allotment | Barry Cuff In The Garden Flowers New Laws on Logs Recipe - Christmas Cake Sadie Suggests Wine Column Business News What's (not) On Art Health Health Beauty Announcements Situations Vacant Classifieds Sport Puzzle Family Finance Night sky this month Planning Property Community Newspapers

Letter From The Editor Ah. So here we are, blinking sadly and despondently into another month of our familiar friend The Lockdown.

And yet, this is not like the Spring – this has not rushed upon us unprepared (I think we all saw it coming with the slow inexorable march of inevitability). We know this beast. And we can do it again.

This month, please do try to support a local business; many of them need us now more than ever before. They’ve taken a hit once, but managing to get through this twice is going to hugely impact all small local businesses; for many, this time of year is what provides the bulk of their annual income. And this bloody virus is stealing that away.

Whether it’s a pub switching to takeaways, a butcher offering local home deliveries, or a book shop allowing click and collect – they need us now.

You may not be leaving your home, but you can still show them your support.

So we implore all of you not to completely rely on the ease of the Amazon giant in your phone, but to see who locally could help you instead. Food, wine, gin, gifts, puzzles, books… in the Spring I even purchased locally a new stand mixer when my ancient one decided that weekly lockdown pizza night was one giant dough mix too many.

So many things are available locally, provided with love by your neighbours, by the people you walk past in the street every day, by the people desperately struggling to feed their families this winter without your custom.

Keep sending us your news, write to us with your views, share with us your pictures - and always come say hello on Facebook or Twitter. We're usually about for a chat. We'll bring the biscuits.

And thank you for the outpouring of support for June Wilson-Billing who shared her breast cancer story with us last month - the operation went well, and so far the signs are excellent. Still a long road ahead of course, but no further awful surprises.

Letters to the Editor I'm looking for old issues of the original BVM, pre- or early 2000's.

In particular, ones containing letters from Joe Binks (or maybe Thomas Binks), my grandad. He died a few years ago, but he loved writing, and I'm told he submitted several articles to the Blackmore Vale for April Fools Day. In one he suggested that the area was to be turned into a reservoir for a hydroelectric dam, and I hear he convinced enough people that there were several disgruntled letters sent in!

Is there any possibility anyone would have an old copy stored away? I'd love to read some of the things he submitted, or even just if anyone remembers them.

Jenny S (you can contact Jenny by emailing editor@theblackmorevale.co.uk) ___

In October’s issue of The Blackmore Vale, which I mostly thoroughly enjoyed reading, there was an article by Andy Palmer entitled ‘Inn Extreme Times’, in which Andy wrote about local pubs that have recently changed hands or undergone renovations.

slamming a local business that, having brought so much to the local community, even during lockdown, with deliveries of food and takeaways, is reeling from months of lockdown and low trade and is really struggling, along with the entire pub trade.

Now is not the time to make flippant remarks that could be harmful to local businesses; now is the time for support.

I feel that the spirit of the ‘BVM’ is written in the best interests of the community, and that this off hand comment is certainly not that.

I would like to suggest that someone from your team actually visits The White Hart and does a proper review, food and all, by way of an apology.

Sturminster used to have many a watering hole, and then we were left with two pubs. We now have The White Hart and The Bank House to add to our lovely town, and we are so happy to have them! Please support them and encourage people to visit ESPECIALLY during this difficult time!

Gilly G ___

I am mystified by Phil O.’s In the article, The White Hart Inn thinking that the old style BVM was not politically biased. Did he in Sturminster Newton gets a ever try to get a letter published mention. “Fantastic!”, I initially querying a Brexiteer thought, as we are so happy as correspondence’s simpleton type residents of ‘Stur’ that we now arguments? have a choice of watering holes; I also heartily disagree with his The White Hart being a favourite due to the huge selection of lager, description of the BBC as biased.

The proper function of all real ale, ciders, gins and wines, and having now transformed the journalists is to robustly question the outpouring of politicians of dilapidated skittle alley into an all parties and since the amazing restaurant! I was very government of the day does disappointed, however, to read more outpouring than the rest, the rather slating review suggesting a price comparison to inevitably the questioning is addressed more to that side than Knightsbridge!

I’m wondering how much thought the other. Remember the grief suffered by Blair and Campbell was put into the piece over the ‘sexing-up’ of the Iraqconsidering that the writer is

dossier?

Peter R. ___ The Prime Minister’s self-imposed deadline to secure a trade deal with Europe has come and gone.

We were all promised a comprehensive deal with Europe – I believe there is still time to deliver that promise. As the second wave of COVID begins, it’s never been more crucial to reach a recovery-boosting deal with Europe.

Polling by Best for Britain shows over three quarters (78%) of people in the South West of England have already noticed job losses and business closures in their community – something I’ve seen as well. To leave the transition period with no plan and no deal would be disastrous in this climate.

Last week also saw the passing of the Agricultural Bill, without the amendments intended to protect our food standards and our farmers. It was a stark reminder that the best guarantee of our high standards is to trade with an ally who shares them.

Abandoning trade with our closest neighbour without a plan in place would compound our already vulnerable position.

This is not an abstract matter of diplomacy and trade – our lives and our livelihoods are on the line. Let’s pursue a recoveryboosting deal, which lets us work with Europe to recover from COVID and keep our standards high.

Shirley R

Dinah's Hollow - the ongoing story.

An Ancient Holloway, loved by locals, used for more than 1,000 years, but now threatened by the seemingly determined County officials in their drive for a final resolution to issues which began over forty years ago.

From the items on the Council meeting notes, an outsider would not know the full emotional impact for residents of the Melbury Abbas Parish, nor those living along the parallel A350 regarding one of the issues on the agenda.

During an online Cabinet meeting on the 6th October, Dorset Council announced proposals to purchase the land on the east side of the C13, part of an ancient site known as Dinah’s Hollow, at a cost of £130,000, so that it could ‘carry out drainage works’. It further announced a longer-term plan, which could cost £4.5m of taxpayers’ money.

But the villagers along the two roads knew this was a vital issue.

Dinah’s Hollow’s roots, literally, go back a thousand years or more.

This was the direct route to Shaftesbury Abbey in King Alfred’s time, and Roman remains suggest it was used by our ancestors far earlier.

Driving through the deep cut hollow lane of what is now the C13, you see the trees lining the old valley. Like most ancient tracks in the county, the banks have for centuries been stabilised by the roots of the trees and vegetation, creating natural countryside management.

The west bank of Dinah’s Hollow has been owned and maintained for more than 35 years by the Phillips family, using traditional land management techniques such as coppicing. There has been no landslip or degradation of this bank in living memory, the Blackmore Vale is told.

by Laura Hitchcock But in 2005, Dorset Council took on the management of a section of the east bank of Dinah’s Hollow, ‘fearing for public safety’.

They proceeded to remove in excess of 140 trees and clear the land, and it was at this point, it is argued, that the current pattern of landslips began to occur on the east bank.

In 2007, with apparently little local consultation on the decision, the ‘Unsuitable for HGV’ signs were removed from both the Shaftesbury and Blandford ends of the C13.

The traffic continued to be an issue - not only in the way in which it encroached on the toe of the slopes when passing, causing subsidence, but also in the sheer narrowness of the road as it passes through Melbury Abbas.

More than 1,000 cases are said to have been logged locally of traffic becoming jammed, due to vehicles being unable to pass each other.

In 2014, Dorset County Council commissioned a report to investigate stabilisation options for the east bank. Suggested solutions ranged from biomanagement of the slopes to a scraping of all vegetation in order to insert soil nails and then to cover the slopes with mesh.

However all work was suspended on the project in 2015, pending the outcome of bids for funding of an M4/Poole link.

Instead, in 2017, a compromise was found in the form of a oneway system, with electronic signs advising HGVs to traverse south on the C13 via Dinah’s Hollow and Melbury Abbas, and north on the A350.

‘Unfortunately, these electric signs lead drivers into believing this is a designated instruction, driving traffic to choose the C13, where they may otherwise opt for the more obvious A road route’, says William Kenealy, Chairman of Melbury Abbas and Cann Group Parish Council.

He said, ‘Interestingly, however, back in the early 90s, HGVs accounted for 14% of all road volume. For the last couple of years it’s been just 5%. The situation looks very different to the 14% or more HGVs that were predicted by the Council’s reports in the early 90’s, when these road plans were set out.’

On the 6th October the Dorset Council cabinet meeting was held to discuss the Dinah’s Hollow Slope Stabilisation. Dorset Council has the opportunity to acquire the land on the east side of Dinah’s Hollow, which it feels would enable it to mitigate one of the triggers of landslip by completing drainage works on this side. A budget of £520,000 has been carried forward, and this would be enough for the purchase and the initial works.

However, the Council needs a further capital investment of £4m to complete the full scheme, including a compulsory purchase of the west bank land, followed by the scalping of the hollow and full stabilisation works, including geotextile matting and giant ‘soil nails’ to hold the land in place.

A landslip in 2016 displaced concrete barriers put in to stabilise the slopes

protected trees and denuding the banks of all flora will have a devastating affect and be a repeat of the previous mistaken policy,’ adding, ‘replacing a system that has kept them stable for more than 1,000 years, with tons of iron that has been given a life of 120 years, is a waste of the limited public funds.’

decision is made.’

But, as Councillor Jane Somper points out, there are no perfect solutions here 'Neither the C13 nor the A350 are appropriately sized to carry the contemporary volume of traffic. Both have pinch points through villages unsuitable for large vehicles, and both suffer the consequences of modern vehicle useage.

The Save Dinah’s Hollow movement slams the ‘ecological and cultural catastrophe’ of the current proposals to fell trees, face the upper slopes with high-tensile mesh and apply hard facing to the lower slopes

What we need to be sure of is that any action taken really is the correct and appropriate action that full investigations are carried out in an entirely transparent manner to explore all the options before a final

Over the years, plans to make the hollow safer have aroused a deep resistance from those who believe the ancient character and environmental significance, with its wealth of species, is something precious and irreplaceable.

Highways brief holder, Cllr Ray Bryan, has promised that local councillors and residents will be kept fully informed of any developments, inviting the two local councillors to sit in on any meetings about proposals for the road.

Locals complain they were not consulted through this meeting, and strongly feel that the heavyhanded approach to the bank stabilisation entirely misses the issue at hand.

In 2015, the then-Chairman of the Parish Council, Brian Hughes, wrote to Dorset County Council.

‘Removing in excess of 1,600

William Kenealy believes Dinahs Hollow will look like this

However it is clear that the Council’s own Outline Programme only allows for a potential public inquiry some months after the land negotiations and compulsory purchase orders have gone ahead. Local residents are keen to raise awareness amongst the wider community, and to work with the local authority to find a safe solution which does not devastate such an ancient and diverse habitat.

"During the 35 years we have lived in Melbury Abbas and owned the West Bank, there has never been a landslip. According to local knowledge this has been the case in living memory. Under our duty of care, we have used three generations of the same Arboricultural contractors to regularly inspect and maintain the trees, ensuring that there is a large, integrated root network holding the banks together in a natural way. This has worked for North Dorset MP, Simon Hoare’s hundreds of years and ensures the says: character of the ancient Holloway.

We have also put in a track and ‘I fully support Dorset Council drainage to the top of the slope to taking any and all measures to ensure that any excess water is protect all road users who drive channelled away from the face of through the C13, and Dinah’s the slope, keeping it relatively dry Hollow. Of course I prefer to and stable. Trees have been protect all ancient ecosystems planted and pollarded, rather than where is practicable - but felled, to help the healthy occasionally there is a conflict regeneration of the root systems. between the needs of the natural We question Dorset Council’s world, and that of the humans policy of felling trees on the East Dinah's Hollow during using it,’ adding, ‘We just cannot Bank and stump grinding out the the first road closure allow any risk to life.’ roots, which was a prime looking much as it must contributor to the destabilisation have done in quieter He continued, ‘It is my and slip on the East Bank. We times past. understanding that the trees will must also question the wisdom of be pollarded, not removed, and not connecting the bolts joining the mesh will be placed around investigation into the the concrete barriers before the them, allowing for regrowth.’ environmental impact. The slip on the East Bank. Had the independent reports do not bolts been connected, the barriers Acknowledging the importance of appear to show the biodiversity would have contained the slip. the site, Simon Hoare adds, ‘We’re we all see through the Hollow.

The idea of felling hundreds of fortunate to live in an area which Before any work is carried out, protected, mature trees within the is wealthy in its riches of ancient further truly independent Holloway is against the Council’s landscape s and features - but investigations must be carried own environmental and climate this does allow us a freedom in out, and the special and unique change policies. The proposed certain circumstances to place biodiversity of the ancient scheme would not only disfigure risk to human life as our top Holloway preserved. the centre of this historic village consideration. I think this issue But if I do not want this in my and destroy the ancient Holloway, has continued on for too long, backyard - well then nor do I wish but will achieve no benefits of with no perfect answers and few to pass it on to some one else's. traffic management and will be a people willing to take firm and The communities along the two waste of £4.5M. The Holloway decisive action to end the debate roads need to come together, and should be safeguarded and the - it is my opinion we have come to work with the council to slopes regularly managed in a that point, and I firmly support understand the best, safest but proper manner to preserve this Dorset Highways in their plan.’ least destructive solution. important part of the Cranborne Through transparency and Chase AONB for future Important Dorset artist Phyllis communication we can move generations."

Wolff comments, forwards.'

Roy Phillips MBE '‘My largest concern is the lack of

NEWS

2020 sees Virtual Remembrance Day Memorials across the county.

Dorset Council will be honouring veterans and live-streaming its annual Remembrance service this year to comply with COVID-19 restrictions.

The service will take place at 10.45am on Wednesday 11 November and will be a short, socially distanced event. The service will be led by Reverend John Yarrien with a maximum of eight wreaths being laid.

The service will be live-streamed on Facebook and the Council invite members of the public to join them online to remember and honour those who fought

Remember on your doorstep this Remembrance Sunday In normal times, we would be paying tribute to our armed forces at the Cenotaph or at public services on Remembrance Sunday.

The pandemic has affected many events this year, however we can still mark the occasion from the safety of our homes.

With on-going restrictions and public health measures in place, we encourage you to ‘remember on your doorstep’ this year and pay your respects by standing on your doorstep at 11am on Remembrance Sunday to mark the two-minute silence.

and died in the line of duty.

Cllr Val Pothecary, Chairman of Dorset Council, said: “The pandemic means that this years’ Remembrance service will be very different, but it will not stop us from honouring the sacrifice of the fallen and valour of our veterans. We hope that residents will join the service via the live-stream on Wednesday 11 November, and we encourage people to ‘remember on their doorsteps’ this Remembrance Sunday to mark the two-minute silence.”

The event will comply with all restrictions, and these

arrangements may alter if there is a change in official government guidance.

On Remembrance Sunday, November 8, there will be no local parades.

All the local Town Councils and the town’s branches of Royal British Legion (RBL) will be arranging a socially distanced and quiet wreath laying on each town’s behalf after a two-minute silence at 11am.

With many Remembrance Day Parades being curtailed or cancelled this year Dorset Army Cadet Force has decided to hold a “Virtual Remembrance Parade” .

Cadets and Adult Volunteers paid their respects to all those Service Personnel past and present, providing photographs of themselves saluting, along with various readings, including one which was also accompanied by a Cadet using British Sign Language, and a performance of the Last Post and Reveille.

Lt Thor Elsson said; “The video was put together to show that despite not being able to parade, Cadets and Staff still wanted to show their support to all those Service Personnel past and present who have given so much so that we can continue to enjoy the freedoms we have today.

We may not be able to physically parade within our communities but by adapting our approach to a ‘virtual’ one we have been able to continue to pay our respects.”

NEWS

BBC nature documentary filmed at Dorset school For four months during the summer of 2019, cutting-edge night vision cameras and ultrasonic detectors from the BBC were focussed on a greater horseshoe bat roost at Bryanston School near Blandford in Dorset.

The remarkable journey into the secret world of one of the country’s most endangered animals will feature in a special documentary ‘Inside the Bat Cave’ was broadcast on BBC 2 the end of October - you can see it on iPlayer here.

TV presenters Professor Kate Jones, Lucy Cooke and Ajay Tegala

any disruption to the roost during any routine maintenance work on the historic buildings where they have taken up residence.

says Karen Brazier, Director of Marketing and External Communications. “The painstaking preparations for filming by the BBC team was a “We were delighted to host the real eye-opener but, all of the BBC and it was fascinating to see effort has produced a truly unique what really goes on in the roost and amazing insight into the lives while everyone at the School goes of these protected and about their everyday activities,” extraordinary creatures.”

Providing an unprecedented view of the hidden life of a bat colony, the documentary includes the birth of pups and their progress towards their first perilous flight outside the roost.

Affectionately known as ‘the Bryanston bats’ by staff and pupils, they are often seen flying in the evening sky around the School. Great care has been taken over many years to avoid

An image from the BBC's 'Inside the Bat Cave'

NEWS

Recognition for local Covid-19 heroes In September Shaftesbury Rotary launched a campaign to recognise outstanding acts of service to the community.

The response has been very encouraging, so the club has decided to extend the period for nomination to 30th November.

The idea behind the certificate is very simple. Throughout the first lockdown - and afterwards villages and towns like Shaftesbury have experienced a

major increase in community spirit, possibly not seen since the last war. And with a second lockdown just started, those groups are immediately springing back into action.

Many vulnerable residents, forced to self-isolate during this pandemic, would have found life even more difficult but for the selfless acts of kindness by volunteers offering their services in various forms.

Worldwide, one of the objects of Rotary is service. So the members of Shaftesbury Rotary Club feel that outstanding contributions of individuals should not be forgotten.

“We intend to recognize them, by the award of a Certificate of Appreciation, to honour and thank them for their service to the community” said Steve Uden who is the current Club President.

If you would like to nominate someone just send an email to: hello@shaftesburyrotaryclub.org Just let us know who they are and a few words to explain why you feel they should be recognised. The recipients will be awarded a framed certificate at a reception to be arranged in the future when it is safe to meet.

PINK BUNNY CYCLES FROM POOLE FOR CHARITY! Barrie Haynes, known to his friends as a 'certified, entertaining idiot', from Bournemouth & Christchurch Lions Club raised money for 'Breast Cancer Now' by cycling from Poole Harbour dressed as a pink bunny.

He was sent on his way by the Mayor of Poole, and wound his way to Gold Hill in Shaftesbury through high winds and pouring rain.

(He had previously accomplished a Special Olympics by cycling in the other direction dressed in a Lion suit) Gillingham, Mere & Shaftesbury

Lions Club was pleased to donate £100 towards his efforts, as did fellow Lions Clubs in Wareham and Blandford.

To greet him on Gold Hill he was honoured to be supported by Radio 2 legend DJ Johnnie Walker and his wife Tiggy (pictured).

GMS Lions would like to congratulations Barrie for his efforts and a sincere thank you to Johnnie and Tiggy for braving the elements on such a foul day.

Help available for local causes Thousands of pounds worth of micro grants is still available to good causes helping communities affected by the coronavirus outbreak.

Back in March, Southern Co-op donated £40,000 to a community fund which was set up to support the causes and individuals most affected by the pandemic.

So far, 30 groups have been awarded the grant from the

Neighbourly Community Fund to help residents across the southern counties.

It is estimated that, to date, these micro grants have helped support more 5,500 people and provided more than 6,700 meals in local communities.

Two Dorset organisations have already benefited - Service By Emergency Rider Volunteers and Dorchester Opportunity Preschool Group.

Organisations based near Southern Co-op's stores or funeral homes can apply for grants using their new or existing Neighbourly profiles via www. neighbourly.com and using the referral code 'SouthernCoopPartner'.

To find your nearest Southern Coop retail store, visit https://stores. thesouthernco-operative.co.uk/ search.html.

Changing of the guard at Sturminster Newton Royal British After 26 years of service, Maj Gen (Retd) John Alexander CB OBE, is retiring as President of the Sturminster Newton Branch of the Royal British Legion. He and his wife Mary have been active supporters of the Legion, taking part in all activities, and the Branch is very grateful for their support over a very long period and wishes them well for the future.

Gen John is being succeeded by Lt Gen (Retd) Sir David Bill KCB. Gen David is a former Royal Engineer and retired from the Army in 2011. He and his wife Gay settled in the town after his retirement

Fundraiser for Sherborne Christmas Trees

and he is currently President of the Gurkha Brigade Association.

He will be formally appointed as Branch President in November at the AGM. We look forward to working with Gen David for many years to come.

The Branch and Club presented Gen John and Mary with tokens of our thanks for their support over the years and the picture shows him holding the print “A Message of Remembrance” by Dorset Artist Jacqueline Hurley which was produced to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the formation of the Royal Corps of Signals.

As a gesture of goodwill to the business owners of Sherborne who have all had a tough year Alison Nurton of Sherborne has launched a fundraising effort to support the cost of decorating the town with Christmas trees.

Non Chamber of Trade members need to pay £24 per tree - and the target of £2,400 has been set to cover 100 trees at this price.

"I hope that the festive spirit of the people of Sherborne ensures that the town looks Merry and Bright this year!"

Click here to donate

COVID 19 Community assistance in Sturminster Newton.

The government’s announcement at the weekend has moved us back to a situation where clinically/extremely vulnerable people, or those at higher risk of severe illness, have to take additional care to minimise contacts with others. There is no requirement to ’shield’, as in the previous lockdown, but people in these categories may feel vulnerable and not to want to leave their homes to get shopping or prescriptions.

In addition, the Furlough Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme was due to end on 31st October. It is being extended for the UK for a month at 80% up to £2500, but the support for the self-employed is unclear at the time of writing. The support from government is welcomed,

Original Blenheim girl Sylvia celebrates her 100th.

unexpected expenditure linking you to organisations that can help you sort things out.

• Needing help with shopping, prescription collection, dogwalking etc - we have volunteers who can help with this. but it is clear that many people • Feeling lonely and needing will already have become someone to talk to - we have unemployed or will be suffering volunteers who will give you a financial hardship. regular call • Health and wellbeing - we The Sturminster Newton can connect you to the local GP community mobilised volunteers practice's social prescribing team to help with the last lockdown in for support with non-clinical March through the COVID 19 issues Support Group. We have • Helping you to find contact continued the helpline services information - for organisations we introduced then, and added who can deal with your specific to them to help you deal with the issues. on-going impact of the COVID crisis on you and your family.

Please do call us on 01258 • Shortage of money for food and basics - linking you to organisations that can help you with food boxes, and vouchers with the Coop and local shops.

Please also visit the new Pantry service in the old Spears Travel office once it opens on 5th November.

• Handling debt, dealing with

intelligence on enemy transport, in particular, military ordnance and personnel.

‘My mother’s office was originally a prisoner’s cell in Wormwood Local resident Sylvia Spooner is Scrubs male prison,' says son to celebrate her 100th birthday Edward, ‘but during the blitz of 1940 was moved to Blenheim on November the 13th.

Palace, birthplace of Winston Churchill.’

Sylvia, now living at Whitecliff The MI5 team were offered this House has lived in Tarrant space by the Duke of Gunville since the late 40s, when Marlborough, of the old Dorset she became a Spooner upon Churchill family, originally from marrying a local boy.

Round Chimneys Farm, south of Sherborne.

During the war, Sylvia he was one MI5 were soon joined by the of the original group of secretarial equally secret radar research and operational staff of internal group, which was moved from intelligence (MI5) who were the Dorset coast, as they were bombed out of London. judged an easy target for German She was part of ‘D’ section, bombers. responsible for gathering

447058 - either a volunteer will answer, or leave a message and we will get back to you within 24 hrs.

Our thanks go to Wessex Internet for providing us with the helpline for free.

For recreation, Sylvia and the other ‘Blenheim Girls’ enjoyed lectures on art history by none other than Anthony Blunt, Keeper of the Queen’s Pictures, later revealed to be a Soviet Spy.

Sylvia on her 99th birthday

Gillingham Flu clinic in the Olive Bowl

Gillingham Medical Practice had to run their flu clinics a little differently this year.

The decision to not let them take place as usual in the surgery premises was not taken lightly, however to have over 3000 patients safely through the surgery premises in 5 days was considered impossible.

With grateful thanks to The Olive Bowl management team and Dextra Group, the clinics recently

The Wessex Morris Men need your help Wessex Morris Men want to go under cover – outdoors – as they hone their traditional dancing skills while obeying COVID rules.

took place at The Olive Bowl in Gillingham - an ideal venue as a large indoor space, fully accessible and with a large car park.

The clinics took place over 5 days and 3,216 flu jabs and 455 pneumococcal vaccinations were given. A huge achievement for early October, as 3,344 flu jabs were given in the whole of the 2019-20 season!

The Gillingham Medical Practice outside winter training is more likely to be thwarted by the weather over the coming months, said a team spokesman.

“We would need parking for up to six vehicles for up to six side members to attend and sufficient space to practice sociallydistanced dancing, around five They have been practicing outside square metres, for a couple of at team members’ homes to hours. maintain their physique and “This would ideally be dance style. during daylight hours – any day, including But they need a covered outdoor weekends – to give our venue once their practice working members a sessions are allowed to continue chance to attend, to keep in-step during the winter though an evening, with months. illumination, could equally suffice.

“We can’t practice indoors and “We don’t need

team were helped by over 50 volunteers, comprised of members of Gillingham Rotary Club, Gillingham Marshalls, GMS Lions, patients, Health Champions and numerous individuals, all very keen to help with a smile on their face – even on the wet & windy days!

‘The volunteers were absolutely amazing, and we couldn’t have managed without them’ said Practice Manager Katie Pearce.

‘The feedback from patients has been extremely positive and we are very grateful to them for making the effort to come to The Olive Bowl. This has allowed us to make full use of our surgery time for other appointments and patient care, which benefits the whole community.’

The clinics were a great whole team effort, with everyone from GPs, Nurses, Management, Admin and Reception staff all doing shifts and giving up their Saturdays to ensure their patients receive their vaccinations early in the season, ahead of the winter months.

additional facilities, just the space to play our music and dance.

“We’re not in a position to pay, other than a nominal fee for the privilege, and we will respond to all offers.”

Please email bagman@wessexmorrismen.co.uk

if you can help.

Wessex Morris Men dancing in public before the 2020 lockdown and COVID restrictions. Picture: Mike Phelan

NEWS

Local hospital’s favourite art treasure goes on European tour major sculptors working in the second half of the 20th century and we are proud to be able to contribute to the enjoyment and education of a new audience by loaning it in this way."

The Dog sculpture by renowned artist Dame Elisabeth Frink is one of Dorset County Hospital’s most treasured possessions, highly popular with staff, patients and visitors.

Germany and then to the In mid-October the important Museum Beelden aan Zee at The work of art left Dorchester for the Hague in Holland until its return first time since being donated to the Hospital nearly 30 years ago. to the Hospital in June 2021.

Suzy Rushbrook, Arts in Hospital Manager at Dorset County The Dog was donated to the Hospital said: Hospital by the artist herself, a former patron, in the early 1990s “This is an exciting opportunity for Arts in Hospital to celebrate at the very beginnings of Arts in the impressive art collection at Hospital. The sculpture is being DCH which we are privileged to loaned first to the Gerhard be able to enjoy on a daily basis.

Marcks Museum in Bremen, Elisabeth Frink was one of the

Battens Charitable Trust supports the arts.

the covid-19 crisis with performances halted and plans for the foreseeable future cancelled.

The Battens Charitable Trust is continuing to support performing arts charity, Dorchester Arts, with a £4500.00 donation.

Dorchester Arts said: “The continuation of Battens Charitable Trust's funding is a generous and far-sighted gesture in these difficult times for the arts. The support will enable us to move towards reopening next year in the strongest way possible, and we are very grateful!”

For the past 30 years, Dorchester Arts has engaged tens of thousands of people in a wide variety of arts events – from huge outdoor events to small-scale children’s theatre. Dorchester Arts not only brings a variety of stage performances to the area, but engages community groups of all ages in Arts activities.

It is not a surprise that the arts industry has been hit hard over

The Battens Charitable Trust was set up in 1985 to enable grants to be made to registered charities and for charitable purposes in Somerset, Dorset and adjoining counties.

The new exhibition featuring the Dog sculpture is entitled Elisabeth Frink: Man is an Animal.

It looks at Frink’s work in the context of a much wider sculptural tradition. It will provide European audiences with a rare opportunity to see how her work was strongly influenced by key artists such as Rodin and early Greek art.

While the sculpture is on loan, staff and visitors to DCH will be able to enjoy a new piece called Ponyrider, by Gerhard Marcks, which will be in place until the Dog returns in June 2021.

Ray Edwards, Director at Battens Solicitors and Trustee of the Battens Charitable Trust said: “Supporting local charities and the community has never been more important. We are delighted to be able to make a donation to Dorchester Arts through this difficult period.”

For more information on the Battens Charitable Trust, apply for a grant, donate or leave a legacy in your will click here.

LOOKING BACK

get in touch with Roger: roger.guttridge@btinternet.com

Roger Guttridge recalls North Dorset’s most notorious smuggling gang

Mill Farm, Okeford Fitzpaine, home of Roger Ridout, pictured in 1982

As many readers will know, I only need half an excuse to talk about my smuggling ancestors, and an email from Mike Coker has provided just that.

‘I’ve enjoyed reading your articles in the new Blackmore Vale and have been the owner of your Dorset Smugglers book for many years,’ he writes.

‘I have a recollection of a story that I read many years ago, the gist of which was that a gang of smugglers led by a Ridout (Roger?) were apprehended by a Customs and Excise officer named Coker (Lieutenant John?).

‘Apparently a mutually satisfactory arrangement (a bribe?) was arrived at and Ridout was allowed to go free without any blood being shed.

‘The story had some significance to me and my family as I am a Coker and my wife's maiden name was Ridout.’

I’ve told Mike that the story doesn’t ring any bells, although that doesn’t necessarily mean it doesn’t have some basis in fact.

If Coker really was a lieutenant, that probably means he was a member of the Coastguard, which used naval ranks but was not launched until 1822, 11 years after Roger Ridout’s death.

Neither the Customs nor the Excise, which were separate

services until the early 1900s, used naval ranks.

Like most smugglers, however, Roger Ridout would not have been averse to a little bribery and corruption if it kept him out of jail.

Among the family legends handed down by my maternal grandfather, Jim Ridout, of Fiddleford, is the claim that Roger used bribed a magistrate called Dashwood by leaving tubs of brandy on his doorstep in Penny Street, Sturminster Newton.

Corroborative evidence comes from an article by HC Dashwood, published in 1895.

LOOKING BACK He described how his father and grandfather, riding late at night in or about 1794, witnessed the Ridout gang at work.

They looked on as the ‘string of horses’ loaded with ‘kegs and other contraband goods’ passed along the narrow lane between Okeford Fitzpaine and Fiddleford.

This alone could explain why Roger Ridout felt the need to part with a tub or two from his precious cargo.

And the Dashwoods were certainly well-informed.

HC’s article not only names Roger Ridout as the gang

leader but also his horse, Ridout’s Stumpted Tail.

‘One or two men, armed, generally were in front and then 10 or 12 horses connected by ropes or halters followed at a hard trot, and two or three men brought up the rear,’ says Dashwood.

‘This cavalcade did not stop for any person, and it was very difficult to get out of their way, as the roads, until the turnpikes were made in 1824, would only allow for one carriage, except in certain parts.

‘The contraband goods were principally brought from

Lulworth and the coast through Whiteparish [Winterborne Whitechurch] and Okeford Fitzpaine, through the paths in the woods to Fiddleford, and thus distributed.’

Dashwood describes Fiddleford Mill and Farm as a ‘great depot’ for smuggled goods, which would be hidden under hay and straw provided by the farmer.

The contraband would be moved further inland at a later date and eventually sold dutyfree.

George Morland’s 1799 painting of smugglers at work

Roger Ridout was my fivetimes-great grandfather, and since hearing the family legends in the 1960s, I have been able to piece together his life. Here are some of the facts I’ve uncovered: • Roger was born at Farrington, Shroton, in 1736.

• His mother was a Fiddleford girl, Susannah Appowell.

• At the age of 10, Roger inherited his grandfather Thomas Appowell’s leasehold house and grounds at Fiddleford.

• In 1756 he married Mary Hancock of Sturminster Newton and they settled at Okeford Fitzpaine Mill.

• In 1770 Poole’s Collector of Customs reported that ‘Isaac Gulliver, William Beale and Roger Ridout run great quantities of goods on our North Shore’.

• In 1781 Roger, Mary, their eldest son William and a fourth man were tried for murder at the Dorset Assizes but acquitted.

• In 1787 Roger was jailed at

Dorchester for ‘smuggling’ but released two weeks later after paying his £40 fine. This was very unusual and suggests his smuggling was doing very nicely!

• Mary and Roger died in 1809 and 1811 respectively and are buried in Okeford Fitzpaine churchyard.

• Their grandson Joseph Ridout, my three-times-great grandfather, served a year in Dorchester Jail in 1825, also for smuggling.

NEWS

Vale Pantry launches valuable help for low income families in Sturminster Newton The Vale Network (Blackmore Vale Partnership & Gillingham Medical Practice) and Cllr.

Carole Jones have been busy over the last few weeks preparing for the opening of North Dorset’s first community food pantry.

‘The Vale Pantry’ will be opening in Market Place, Sturminster Newton in early November in the shop previously occupied by Spear Travels, initially on Thursdays 5pm – 8pm and Saturdays 9am – 12pm.

For a weekly membership of £4.50, members will be able to choose a selection of food with a value of approx. £20 - £25 each week.

The pantry’s purpose is to help people top up their weekly shop, and the variety of food available will include fresh fruit and veg, store cupboard favourites, bread, dairy products as well as frozen items.

How do I become a member?

Jane Dawes, Managing Partner of The Blackmore Vale Partnership said ‘we we are delighted to be able to support our local community with this initiative’.

How can I help/be involved?

Membership forms and full details will be available to download on The Vale Pantry website or Facebook page very soon.

There will also be a couple of The Vale Network are delighted to be financing this much needed sign-up days at the shop. scheme which will provide a Please keep an eye on social choice of good quality food to media for updates or make those who may for whatever contact by telephone or email, reason need a little bit of help details below. with their weekly shop.

The shop premises have kindly been made available due to the generosity of John Romans Park Homes Ltd and Spear Travels.

Volunteers are required to help with accepting food deliveries, sorting stock, admin and helping in the shop. Please do get in touch – training will be provided.

The Pantry’s food supply will initially come from the national charitable food redistributor ‘Fareshare’. However, if you have an allotment or are a local business which finds itself with surplus food supplies, The Vale Pantry would love to hear from you.

Cllr. Carole Jones 07968 348481 carole4stur@gmail.com Karen Rhys (The Vale Network): 07395 949370 karen. rhys@dorsetgp.nhs.uk Facebook: @TheValePantry thevalepantry@gmail.com

A diamond day for Mike and Patricia It was love at first sight when Mike Taylor saw Patricia Millichamp.

He knew within minutes that he wanted to marry her. He proposed but it was three years before she said yes – and on 22nd October they celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary at their home in Tisbury.

Mike, who was born in Salisbury in 1939, and Trish, who is two years younger, met at a friend’s wedding. Within 20 minutes of meeting her, Mike had proposed.

Their first date was the day after the wedding – a walk around Fonthill Lake. But Mike had to wait three years before she said yes. He proposed for the second time at Trish’s family home in Stop Street, Fonthill Gifford, where he asked her father for permission to marry her.

The couple bought the engagement ring from Tribecks Jewellers in Salisbury, and were married the day before Trish’s 21st birthday, on 22nd October 1960, at Holy Trinity Church, Fonthill Gifford. The wedding reception, attended by 70 guests, was at Fonthill Hut. Their memories of their wedding day are of “copious amount of home-made wine and whisky’ and the official photographer lost all but ten of their photographs.

Understandably these are treasured by Mike and Trish and their family.

At the time of their marriage, Mike was a bus driver for Wilts and Dorset, regularly driving through the Chalke Valley. Much of their courting was

done on the bus route – Trish would buy a ticket to travel with him through the Chalke Valley on her days off! A lot of the guests at the wedding were regular passengers.

Trish was a secretary at Wilton Royal Carpet Factory until their first child arrived in 1961.

They have shared their lives together for six decades, but they don’t share hobbies – their daughter Fiona Oliver thinks that might be the secret to their long happy marriage. Trish loves gardening, art and craft while Mike loves photography and wood-turning, both of which require him to have his own space (a dark room and a shed.)

They have two children, Gary, who is married to Claire, and Fiona, who is married to Neil, and is co-director of Wiltshire Community Foundation. There are six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

They celebrated their diamond wedding with a card from the Queen, and a homemade Cornish pasty and glass of bubbly. The party has been delayed until the Covid restrictions are lifted, says Fiona.

So what is the secret of their long happy marriage? They say: “Love and kindness – and never go to sleep on an argument.” Good advice in these difficult, turbulent times.

Fanny Charles

MEET YOUR LOCAL

Meet Your Local: The Cross Keys Inn Our regular column in which you discover the faces and stories behind the pub sign. This month we've been chatting to Mo at the Cross Keys Inn, Sherborne.

The Cross Keys Inn is owned and run by Mo Gherras and Hannah Booth . It is one of the town’s most famous inns; just around the corner from 15th century Sherborne Abbey, it has been welcoming locals and visitors for more than two hundred years.

How did you end up at the Cross Keys?

Having worked in hospitality for over 25 years, mostly spent in London, I started at the bottom and worked my way up. It has always been my dream to be my own boss and run my own business; on viewing the Cross Keys my partner and I saw huge potential and fell in love with it straight away. Getting it to where it is today really has been a labour of love - the building was in complete disrepair with a hole from floor to ceiling, but now it is complete with bar & restaurant plus luxury guest bedrooms.

What's your favourite local place to visit on an afternoon off?

On the rare occasion we do get

time off, its all about the family and creating special memories.

We are so lucky in Sherborne to have lots of greats places close by and we love trying new things.

If its a quick hour in the afternoon, you'll most likely find me/us strolling Cheap Street or sitting on a bench outside the Abbey. Otherwise we most likely head to the coast, Weymouth, Portland or my daughter loves the cinema in Dorchester.

Tell us about the first lockdown.

We closed for a total of one day and then reopened with a stall outside the pub selling everything from essentials (bread and milk) to takeaway coffee and hot meals. Our stall became very popular, selling between 100-120 scotch eggs and sausage rolls a day! We became members of Sherborne Viral Kindness, the campaign to help those most vulnerable in the community, by opening our kitchen, and at its peak were making over 50 meals a day. For us it was about helping out however we could.

What was the biggest challenge in getting the

The Cross Keys Inn, Cheap St Sherborne image: Courtenay Hitchcock

Cross Keys ready for reopening?

To be honest it was more of a relief. We were already offering an extensive takeaway menu by this point, so we just maintained the keep calm and carry on ethos and just got going with all the necessary changes. It was amazing to reopen our physical doors and get back to some kind of normal. The biggest impact of reopening has been the cleaning bill ... which has increased by more than 30%!

Which bit are you most proud of?

Our resilience and positivity. For us its all about community, so despite everything that's going on around us its about pulling together and remaining positive.

It's the customers who come back again and again and tell us how much they enjoy it that make it all worthwhile. Sherborne has a great community and we are proud to be part of it.

What part of the inn is your absolute favourite?

The Team at the Cross Keys Inn: Taran Welch (sous chef), Dan Jeal (head chef), Mo Gherras (owner).

Image: Courtenay Hitchcock

The pub is very old, with lots of quirky, special features there are simply too many. One of our favourite spots is just inside the front door, at the table which overlooks the conduit and

Nominate your own local for next month - send an email to editor@theblackmorevale.co.uk

MEET YOUR LOCAL

What’s next?

Mo behind the bar in the Cross Keys Inn. image: Courtenay Hitchcock

overlooks the conduit and watching the hustle and bustle of Cheap Street. Its a great spot for watching the world go by.

Which dish is your most popular?

At the moment it has to be the Duck. It's a delicious classic dish that uses some of the best local seasonal ingredients. (But naturally all our dishes are worth trying!)

We make the best of the region; we stock local breweries, local gin (we even make our own!) We focus on local seasonal ingredients and we pride ourselves on homemade dishes made in house and to order.

It is really difficult to predict whats next but we will just keep going and doing what we love.

We will adapt and evolve to whatever comes our way.

We have a fabulous Christmas Menu (available as soon as lockdown ends), and for Christmas Day we have an amazing 'Christmas in a Box' with everything you'll need to eat on the big day delivered to your door on Christmas Eve! No hassle and no washing up.

Visit the website give us a call 01935 508130 or follow us on Facebook or Instagram to keep up to date with all the pub news

During Lockdown:

What do you think makes you stand out to your customers?

The Cross Keys is special because we pride ourselves in a welcome like no other. We go above and beyond for all our customers; we make sure every customer feels special, a customer is a name not a number. We not only know our regulars' names, we know their favourite tipple, how they take their coffee and we know their timetables.

The pop up Cross Keys takeaway, a with one-way system using both doorways of the pub, opens again today, the 6th! This way you get to keep warm and dry whilst choosing your delicious snacks and collecting takeaways!

OPENING HOURS: Tuesday - Saturday 8am - 2pm Breakfast, Snacks and Lunch 5pm - 8pm Hot Food Takeaways Sunday 8am-2pm for Breakfast, Snacks and Essentials Menu coming - keep an eye on their social feeds!

Reconnecting with nature at Petersfinger RESIDENTS of new barn-conversion homes at Petersfinger, on the eastern edge of Salisbury, will be able to “reconnect with nature,” says Shaftesbury-based architect Philip Proctor.

The Petersfinger Farm scheme, which was officially opened with a ribbon cutting by the High Sheriff of Wiltshire, General Ashley Truluck, has a semi-rural setting, with wild flower-rich meadows and a walk to the river., but with easy access to the city and views of the cathedral.

Some of the land around the old farm buildings was traditionally irrigated water meadows with leats and drains for crops. About 40 acres of the farmland have been leased to a shepherd who will keep her flock there – helping to improve the soil and

diversity of plant and wildlife.

The converted barns are about 600 yards from the river Avon; part of the site is listed as an important wildlife area. There are deer, rabbits, foxes, river birds, birds of prey and many wildflowers and orchids.

was managed by builder Marcus Jones.

The new homes are designed to be low energy and low maintenance, equipped with Bosch kitchen appliances, and making intelligent use of loft space for storage. Some are open-plan, some with more cottage-style rooms. All have been finished to high standards of craftsmanship. The show home, the Oak Barn, has interior design by Gary Jefferson, with elegant furniture, studio pottery and artworks to make the most of the space and light.

The development is aimed at people aged 55 and over, and is managed by Cognatum, a notfor-profit company which specialises in retirement schemes. Initially there are four individually designed threebedroom homes, in barns dating from the 18th and 19th centuries, which were formerly a dairy, There are no restrictions on pets smithy and the stables for the or children – there is even a pony working shire horses. paddock if new residents want to bring their horse or a grandchild’s The conversion and plans for the pony with them! scheme were designed by Phil Proctor, and the construction Petersfinger Farm is close to out of town shopping areas, and about 300 yards from one of the Salisbury park and ride locations.

There are level cycle and footpaths into the city.

The next phase will feature a club-house with a thatched roof, kitchen and quiet room, and a loggia with views across the meadow. There are plans for a further phase of housing, with a guest suite and facilities for a manager, as well as some public access to the wildlife areas and the river.

Fanny Charles

A historic name The village of Petersfinger, in the parish of Clarendon, takes its name from one of the most famous stories in the Acts of the Apostles, the angel rescuing the shackled St Peter from Herod’s prison. Petersfinger is a corruption of St Peter ad Vincula – St Peter in Chains. There are a number of churches in England which have this name, but the Wiltshire village doesn’t have a church. Unusually, it takes its name from the feast of St Peter ad Vincula, celebrated on 1st August, and the land itself.

The land in the Petersfinger area

was Lammas-land, a nowvanished system of ownership.

For part of the year it was privately owned, but for the rest, usually from Lammas, in midAugust, it was open for public crop-planting and grazing.

Probably the best-known St Peter ad Vincula is the Chapel Royal, the parish church of the Tower of London, the burial place of some of the most famous prisoners executed at the Tower, including two of Henry VIII’s queens, Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard, the nine-day Queen, Lady Jane Grey and her husband Lord Guilford Dudley, and Sir Thomas More.

And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands. Acts 12:7

The High Sheriff of Wiltshire, General Ashley Truluck, who is chairman of Wiltshire Community Foundation, officially opened the Petersfinger Farm development by cutting the ribbon. He is pictured with, from left, John Lavin, managing director of Cognatum, Keith Rodger, chairman of Clarendon Parish Council, Alex Matthews, chairman of Cognatum, Anne Madison, Cognatum projects manager, and Philip Proctor, architect and co-director of the developers, Petersfinger Barns Ltd.

YOUTH

New Master Cadet in Dorset ACF

continue to offer the ‘Absolutely safe, Challenging and Fun’ Cadet experience to the young people of Dorset - are new Adult Volunteer Instructors, both uniformed and in civilian support Over the lockdown period our Company Commander, Maj positions. Having top quality staff activities have been severely Stockford said: to lead, teach, encourage, and curtailed but that hasn’t stopped "RSM Hitchcock is an exceptional mentor our Cadets is what Cadets from progressing and Cadet who exemplifies the Values ensures many of our activities achieving great things. and & Standards of the ACF, and happen. has demonstrated his hard work So; if you are able to get to any of In particular – North (Normandy) and dedication in order to the following Detachments: Company were pleased to Blandford, Gillingham, promote Blandford Detachment’s Shaftesbury, Sherborne, West Cadet Toby Hitchcock to the rank Moors & Verwood, or Wimborne of Sergeant Maj and appoint him and like the idea of inspiring and as the Regimental Sergeant Maj leading young people to achieve (RSM) for Dorset - the highestthings they never thought ranked cadet in the county. possible and are looking for something exciting to do in your This was coupled with him spare time then please get in attaining the highest level in touch. the Army Proficiency No particular previous military or Certificate Syllabus as he cadet experience is required – became a Master Cadet. although it can be useful - as we This is no small feat, as due to the provide all the necessary training restrictions placed on training by and equipment. There are also COVID it has been a particularly opportunities to gain recognised tough ask for our senior cadets, Master Cadet RSM, qualifications in Leadership and and it is testament to CSM Toby Hitchcock Management or even Adventure Hitchcock’s hard work, dedication by Courtenay Hitchcock.

Training - as well as having loads and commitment that he’s of fun in the process. reached the required standard to achieve his Master Cadet For more information visit our become a Master Cadet following qualification. Very well done." website or email Ms Kelly a final interview with our Graham at our HQ. We look Commandant, Colonel Dick ADULT RECRUITMENT. forward to hearing from you and Taylor, himself a resident of One thing Dorset ACF really being able to explain what we do Blandford. needs - to ensure we can and how we do it! Lt Thor Elsson

Tales From The Vale with Andy Palmer.

Driving from Mappowder up to Hazlebury Bryan, you enter Wonston and, thanks to the imagination of one household (and I’m presuming it was the male), you’ll note an enormous rock of mellow Sherborne stone with the house name, Hawkwell, beautifully carved and emphasised in black.

Despite only being there for a month, the stone has started to weather attractively. Stopping to admire it, I chatted to the affable owner just after it was installed.

I told him how I liked it and, going off on a flight of fancy, asked if the conversation with his wife to have a bold house name plaque went like this.

Husband (hesitantly). ‘I’ve um …ordered a sort of …err plaque so people can find us’.

Wife: ‘Oh, lovely, is it nice and discrete?’

Husband: ‘Err…..sort of.’

Wife (immediately wary): ‘What exactly have you ordered? Not too big is it?’

Husband: ‘No, no, no. It’s …well … it’s certainly noticeable’.

The house owner laughed when I suggested this and said, ‘not far off it’ or words to that effect.

I should mention that the stone weighs 1.5 tons. I think it’s great. And no Amazon delivery van will miss it, therefore avoiding diesel fumes as they

image: Cameron Hitchcock

drive up and down to locate the right house, therefore helping to save the planet. Which is just as well as the house sign consists of a fair part of the planet.

The rock is similar to that which marks the Bere Regis community of Shitterton, near, I believe, where Queen’s guitarist Brian May has a badger sanctuary - when buying it I wonder if the land agent asked which plot the famous guitarist wanted, and Brian replied, ‘I want it all, and I want it now’, obviously playing air guitar after that last bit.

The reason for this three ton sign is simple: the old sign kept being nicked. I’m guessing the Hawkwell sign will be there for a while, too.

And on the subject of racy signs, I bring you an anecdote from my dentist, ex-Army colonel Ian Mercier – the only dentist I’ve known who makes me laugh non-stop during an examination and treatment.

When stationed in Germany, he says all new squaddies were entranced by a nearby town which gloried in the name of Wank (obviously pronounced Vank, locally). Such was the draw for the soldiers to have their photos and selfies taken next to it, the town had to invest in a car park to accommodate the admiring crowds.

Which brings me to the slightly puzzling sign just on the Sherborne side of Milborne Port which carries the intriguing slogan, ‘The Spirit of Milborne Port’.

Although I do wonder what this spirit is (gin, perhaps, a poltergeist) I do admire the town elders for putting it there. Actually, it is of course, Community Spirit they’re celebrating, and it’s worth a drive through the town to enjoy the enormous poppies on the side of the through road.

POLITICS

View from Westminster

by Simon Hoare MP

Autumn Lockdown This Covid virus is a persistent one isn’t? There is absolutely no one who wanted to have to have a second lockdown.

However, the Government has always said it will be guided by the health experts. And I do mean proper real experts rather than the rash of ‘armchair epidemiologists’ that spring up like mushrooms. By the time you are reading this I will have voted with the Prime Minister for a second lockdown. From my postbag I know that there is not universal support for this so let me explain briefly why I have done so.

addressed as they were during the first lockdown. What cannot be mitigated against is a tidal wave of pressures on the NHS that sees the whole edifice collapse. It’s great that so many nurses have registered to return to the NHS.

That said, the pressure on the sophisticated nursing skills of those who practice in ICU using ventilators and other associated equipment is great and we have to keep a clear eye on that resource. It is the season, less of mists and mellow fruitfulness and more of flu, respiratory and cardiac problems bringing the annual ‘winter crisis’ in their wake.

Such a lethal cocktail of NHS First this was always a public demand could see our health emergency. hospitals and ambulance service at snapping point.

It should only be confronted as Beds and wards full of Covid such. Of course there have patients means, in stark terms, been significant impacts on the that other needy patients economy both locally and would be back at the queue. nationally but, as we have seen from a wide package of I am confident that the measures from the Treasury, measures of lockdown can these can, in great part, be contain the spread of the mitigated. We are into the virus, reduce demand season of short days and pressure on doctors, nurses miserable weather. There will and beds ensuring be negative impacts on mental headroom for non-Covid health and on domestic health issues to be attended violence as lockdown to. In my opinion it would be challenges bite. Both are an abdication horrendous but of responsibility not to again, with resource, attention lockdown. and engagement they can be

A word or two on schools remaining open if I may?

With three daughters in local schools I know how pleased they were to return to school.

I also know, from conversations with Heads that too many children, those who can least afford to, have fallen back in their learning as a result of earlier school closures. Heads, staff, governors have all risen magnificently to the challenge of getting our schools as Covid secure as they can and where there have been cases these have not spread schoolwide due to robust action. We cannot sacrifice the futures of our young. We must ensure that education provides them with the keys to unlock life’s opportunities doors. With continued vigilance and commonsense our schools will and should stay open.

RURAL MATTERS

The Blackmore Vale and future farm support For many months we have all been hearing from government that post-Brexit farm support systems under the Common Agricultural Policy will be replaced by “public funds for public goods”.

That might seem reasonable enough, but how exactly will it happen . . . and how will it impact on our local farmers in Dorset ?

However on Dorset’s low-lying, well hedged, grassland farms such as exist all across the Blackmore Vale - it is difficult to envisage exactly how such farms will be able to suddenly start delivering public goods over and above what they offer now.

They form a key part of the Dorset landscape, but the government needs to remember that the rationale for such farms Initially it seemed that an is their capacity to produce Environmental Land food – primarily from livestock Management (ELM) scheme and dairy production. Often the would be devised to achieve this. field size - as well as the farm That is now “work in progress”, so size - is not large. In many cases more recently the government they are family farms without the has announced plans for a resource to deploy staff on to transition scheme prior to rolling any work that is peripheral to the out the ELM. daily slog of getting cows milked, Called the Sustainable Farming calves reared, slurry stored and Incentive it seems mainly geared spread, and grassland managed to farmers not already involved for grazing and silage. in any current agri-environment scheme. Farmers will probably be I suspect that encouragement of required to work towards the “farm diversification” will soon government’s environmental and resurface as a device for net zero goals to qualify for government ducking its funding. The aims of the responsibility to achieve Sustainable Farming Incentive optimum self-sufficiency in scheme indicate that a domestic food production. Some reasonably large number of Dorset farmers have been very farmers should be able to qualify. successful at diversification – farmhouse accommodation,

farm shops, and even racehorse training all spring to mind ! But these are not options available to everyone, and without the right expertise can lead to financial disaster.

Climate change and Brexit probably makes it inevitable that farming will have to change.

Covid is a further complication – not least as the funds promised for the farming industry will have to come from greatly depleted government resources.

For those of us who value both our rural landscapes and local farm products, the years ahead could well be very challenging.

If we want to keep our farmed landscape we have to think hard how we best support local farmers. However controversial it might seem, paying more for our home-produced food may have to be one future option.

Shaun Leavey OBE FRAgS Farming Adviser Dorset CPRE (Campaign to Protect Rural England)

www.littlestuff.co.uk

Harry Potter Advent Calendar Cube 2020 It’s Harry Potter – but the more grown up version. It’s slightly female-lead – gifts include cute hair accessories, cosy socks, badge, shoe laces, keyring, pin badge, bracelet with charms, stickers, an invisible ink pen, 2 pens designed like magic wands from Harry Potter, a fountain pen and fun stationery. £32

Joe & Seph’s Popcorn Advent Calendar.

24 bags in 12 different flavours. from Amazon for just under £27

ADVENT CALENDARS FOR TEENAGERS (not even sorry...)

I really do try not to talk too much about the 'C' word just yet.

But. Advent calendars break the rules.

Because a) you need them ready in the cupboard a month before Christmas, and b) the best ones sell out fast so you need to get in quick.

And Teenagers. Occasionally a tricky beast to please. Obviously they want an advent calendar just like everyone else in the house (we all know that teens are 50% 30yr olds, 50% 6yr olds, yes?).

So we’ve been looking for Advent Calendars for Teenagers – they’re too old for the more traditional ‘open the door to find the cute picture or chocolate’ option (although the 50% 6yr old part secretly yearns for such things…sshhh). And of course they’re too young for the more adult offerings out there.

However, we think we have come up with a great list of top Advent Calendars for Teenagers that will get more that just a grunt of joy from your teen this Christmas.

Help to make them feel appreciated and just as much a part of the seasons little traditions as everyone else this year. Although – perhaps a good idea to keep a few spare chocolates aside just in case, eh?

12

The Hot Chocolate Advent Calendar.

Enough said, i think. £60 though, so it had better be good!

There are loads of beauty calendars on the market, and quite often they are a huge price. However we think this one from Amazon actually represents pretty good value for money. Grab it now while you can £60.

Wickford & Co Seasonal Scents Advent Calendar With Tea Light & Votive Candles £12!

Pukka Herbs Tea Christmas Advent Calendar Tea. That’s it really.

But most teens do actually love a good cuppa. £10

The Naked Marshmallow - gourmet Handmade Marshmallows. Always a win. £22

Pork Crackling Advent Calendar I know. Pork crackling. Ew. And yet… I have two teens who love it. £18

LEGO 75279 Star Wars Advent Calendar 2020 Christmas Mini Builds Set with Iconic Starships and Characters.

You're never too old. £25

Dorset's Top 100 Fiction books are in!

Last month Dorset Libraries asked for your nominations for your top fiction books of all time.

We know - It's the sort of dilemma that fills any book lover with equal parts tingly excitement and existential dread.

And yet - the challenge was accepted, in your droves Dorset Libraries received nominations for over 200 titles!

And while, yes, we're all winners here *soothes the cover of the titles languishing at the back with just one vote each* there were, of course, some stand out favourites.

The top 18 are listed opposite - how many have you read? I'm almost ashamed to admit there are three that i haven't - The Goldfinch, Middlemarch and 1984.

I know, I know... I'll correct it soon, I promise!

But I'm overjoyed that all of my own top favourites are in there - To Kill A Mockingbird and Pride & Prejudice are probably my Desert Island books, closely followed by The Book Thief and Gone With The Wind (I'm nothing of not eclectic in my reading choices). It's lovely to see some newer titles like All The Light We Cannot See holding its own against stalwart classics like Middlemarch too.

Dorset Libraries continue to offer rentals of e-books, audio books, e-magazines, newspapers & ancestry through lockdown – full details are on their web site here.

They are also running Virtual Reading Groups - expect lively conversation and thoughtful discussion.

Details of all virtual events are here.

On the last Thursday of each month there is a virtual live chat Reading Group (10-11am) – all welcome.

BOOKS Time and again this year, I've heard people commenting that one of the good things to have come out of 2020 has been the time to take up slower activities - crafts, baking, writing, and of course the chance to catch up on that 'To Be Read' book pile.

To continue with our ethos of supporting our local indies, we've asked local independent bookseller Winstones of Sherborne to provide us with a few tips on good reads for the month ahead. Ed.

Voice of the Books

Christmas is fast approaching - together with the anxiety of choosing the right gift for loved ones. One of the few positives of recent months is that publishing has been forced to hold its breath, resulting in huge amount of new titles published in the autumn; 570 just on one day! These are no slim pickings either; major fiction titles from Robert Harris and Hilary Mantel, biographies on David Attenborough and Victoria Wood, and an enchanting range of books for children.

Here is my personal pick of a few of the new titles we have in store:

The White Ship: Conquest, Anarchy and the Wrecking of Henry I's Dream by Charles Spencer £25

Tree Beings by Raymond Huber £14.99 AGES 7-12

The sinking of the White Ship in 1120 is one of England’s greatest maritime disasters. With all the drama and bloodshed of Game of Thrones this is a gripping tale of how one fateful shipwreck changed England’s course forever.

Signed copies available.

We depend on trees for our survival, yet few of us understand just how fascinating these beings really are. With a foreword by the world-renowned anthropologist Jane Goodall, Tree Beings is an adventure through the secret world of trees. Challenging the perception that trees are just 'silent statues', it focuses on four big ideas: Trees give life to the planet. Trees can help save us from climate change. Trees are like beings. Trees need our help and protection. Along the way, you'll meet some of the scientists and explorers who helped uncover the mysteries of the world's oldest living things.

Throughout lockdown you can order from Winstone's online, collect kerbside or from the nearest car park. Free home delivery (3 miles of the shop), or they'll post to you of course. Call, email or click here.

A Single Thread by Tracy Chevalier £8.99 A fantastic new novel from the best selling writer of the Girl with the Pearl Earring. Violet is 38.

WWI took everything from her.

Her brother, her fiancé - and her future. She is now considered a 'surplus woman'. But Violet is also fiercely independent and determined. Escaping her suffocating mother, she starts a new life - finding courage, resilience and acts of quiet rebellion. And when whispers of another world war surface, she must live with a secret that could change everything...

'Books on Wheels' Keep Reading with the Home Library Service

Home Library Service Volunteer collecting books for doorstep deliveries.

Reading and listening to books are enjoyable for many people – they can help make people feel less isolated and lonely too.

But for those unable to get to their local library, the pleasure of reading is easily lost. Volunteers from a local 'Books on Wheels' services work with local libraries to ensure everyone in our community can continue to enjoy reading.

The Home Library Service (HLS) can provide a regular supply of books for you to continue to enjoy at home completely free of charge. In Dorset it's a countywide partnership between the Royal Voluntary Service and Dorset Council, and is provided from our libraries by volunteers.

HLS volunteers deliver so much more than books – they are a friendly, familiar face making a regular home visit to people whose mobility and social

interaction are limited. They also provide a useful check on the safety and well-being of people living in the community.

The HLS supplies readers in Sturminster Newton, Stalbridge, Child Okeford, Okeford Fitzpaine, Hazelbury Bryan, Kings Stag, Lydlinch, Marnhull and Hinton St Mary, together with surrounding villages and hamlets.

New readers are initially telephoned by a Local HLS Coordinator to find out how many and what type of books the reader would be interested to read, and whether ordinary or large print is required. The service also provides “Talking Books” which are recorded onto CDs or cassette tapes.

Every three weeks - or at intervals to suit - appropriate material is selected according to the known preferences of particular Readers and any feedback received.

Having undergone a quarantine period of 72 hours the books are then delivered to the Readers, using a doorstep delivery service to their homes by their volunteer.

The HLS is open to anybody who needs it short or long term.

If you are interested for yourself, or for somebody you know who loves books but can no longer access the library, there are several ways of making contact with the service.

You can telephone the Dorset HLS Service Manager, Maria Jacobson on 01305 236666 or email her here.

Or contact the local co-ordinator Carey Pearce on 07423 471019 or email here or leave your address and telephone number at any library in North Dorset for Carey to contact you.

If you have an hour or two to spare once every three weeks or so and would like to know more or become a Home Library Volunteer just contact us as above

THEN & NOW

Then and Now

with Roger Guttridge

This was the moment when Blandford’s railway history reached the point of no return.

Then...

The arches at the eastern end of East Street had survived passenger trains by 12 years and goods traffic by nine.

But with their structural condition deteriorating and road traffic increasing, the arches were finally blown to bits on July 25, 1978.

It was a sad day for those who had used the Somerset & Dorset line, including myself, as I travelled to Blandford Grammar School from Sturminster Newton

...and Now.

and later Shillingstone from 1961 until Dr Beeching had his wicked way in 1966.

But it was presumably a powerful moment for the winner of the local lottery that decided who got to press the detonation button.

On the right of the 1978 picture is English’s garage, where fourstar and three-star petrol could be bought for 79p and 77p a gallon (about 17p a litre).

The filling station was also

offering Green Shield trading stamps, which will bring back memories for those of us old enough to remember the days before plastic loyalty cards.

A 2020 view, taken from almost the same spot in Wimborne Road, shows the town houses that have replaced the garage and the open view into East Street.

roger.guttridge@btinternet.com

Looking for something new to learn during lockdown?

Here's a roundup of a huge array of FREE online courses and resources to keep you occupied all winter!

Care Home Staff Enjoy 'Making a Difference' video Like all care providers, Candlelight Care has spent the majority of 2020 managing the effects of the pandemic. Despite the additional pressures of sourcing PPE and managing rotas to accommodate isolating staff, it has carried on providing highquality care to people across Somerset and beyond.

Roxanne Brown with her Grandfather Michael Brown

During the Autumn, the management and staff have also been undertaking an additional and fun project - filming videos!

Whilst primarily created to raise the profile of Candlelight Care with prospective clients and staff, they also highlight some key points which apply to the entire sector.

“Social Care has been in the news a lot throughout the pandemic.

‘Clap for the NHS’ became ‘Clap for Carers’, and for the first time our sector was seen as an important service, just like the NHS. We need to maintain the profile of social care and showcase the difference we make to people’s lives.”

Deborah Puxty, Candlelight Care’s Operations Manager explains why they are so important:

‘Making a difference’ comes across very strongly in these videos. Candlelight Care chose

not to use actors for their films, instead using real staff from their own workforce and real clients.

Deborah said, “I think everyone enjoyed their moment in front of the camera! We’re extremely grateful to everyone who took part, and also to Mostly Films Productions, who brought our ideas to life. We’re really looking forward to sharing the finished films with everyone.”

Monthly news from different voices within the North Dorset Police Team.

Sturminster Newton Town and Rural NPT is made left inside the vehicles whilst the occupants enjoy up of two officers: PC Phil Sugrue and, myself, the countryside. Placing your valuables under the PCSO Mandy Robinson. We have both worked in seat or in the boot is not enough; the thieves know the area for over 13 years and are based in the where to look! town.

Our advice to visitors to these areas is to remove all valuables and take then with you - or better The Sturminster Newton area is approx. 100 sq still leave them at home! miles which includes Sturminster Newton, Stalbridge, Marnhull, Hazelbury Bryan, Hinton St PLEASE BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING Mary, Manston, Broad Oak, Newton, Fifehead CURRENT SCAMS: Neville, Bagber, Lydlinch, Stourton Caundle, Stalbridge Weston, Kings Stag, Pulham, Glanvilles Banking Wootton, Mappowder, Stoke Wake, Woolland, and A scam was recently brought to my attention Hammoon. where a person purporting to be from the Fraud Team from Barclays bank contacted a resident, by Thefts from Beauty Spots phone, initially stating that there had been The area we work in is very rural, and due to this suspicious activity on their account, monies were there a many beauty spots that attract dog transferred to an account to allegedly catch the walkers, families and visitors alike. However these fraudster. areas are extremely attractive to criminals due to Your bank would NEVER contact you by phone and valuables, handbags, wallets, computers etc being ask you to transfer funds.

Romance A 'romance' scam has also been reported - these types of calls often come from abroad. The person calling is asking for money for a sick relative, to pay bills or flights etc. under the guise of a romance. The callers are not interested in a relationship they are only after your money.

DO NOT ENGAGE WITH UNKNOWN CALLERS YOU DO NOT KNOW WHO YOU ARE TALKING TO! HANG UP ON FRAUDSTERS! The nights are drawing in quickly‌.. Winter is approaching fast, dark mornings and evenings are upon us. As well as poor visibility there will be icy and muddy roads to contend with. Keep yourself and other road users safe by ensuring your vehicle lights are in working order, regularly check your tyre tread and pressures as well as keeping the North Dorset screen wash topped up.

Police Remember to drive to the conditions of the road.

North Dorset Police North Dorset Police

Mandy Robinson PCSO 5352

Voice of the Blue Light: PCSO Mandy Robinson

NEWS

Chester Jefferies is a family run business, and unlike the majority of gloves which are produced for today's market, Chester Jefferies gloves are made from leather skins which are individually inspected and prepared before being cut by hand.

Enjoying a worldwide reputation for excellence in the design and making of fine leather gloves.

Reader's Photography Keen Photographer? Seen something noteworthy?

Hobbyist or professional, we love beautiful photography (you might've spotted that already!).

Do please send us any photographs you take this month that you'd like to see featured, along with your name and where & when it's taken to editor@theblackmorevale.co.uk

Symphony of the Countryside

A new film that captures the images, words, music and sounds that make up our rural landscape from Dorset to Northumberland At a time of isolation, rural touring schemes up and down the country had to work creatively to continue their connection with rural communities including Artsreach, Dorset’s own rural touring charity.

The enforced pause to holding live events in community venues provided the opportunity to collaborate on a project.

Armed with their own cameras and smartphones, volunteers who are active as organisers of theatre, concerts and live

performances in rural spaces captured sound and video content from their communities during lockdown.

Stitched together by filmmaker Gemma Wearing, a visual landscape has been created, overlaid with music and poetry from artists in each of the participating regions.

“Symphony of the Countryside has been a real journey. It was a bit daunting just having to wait and see what footage arrived, but I was completely blown away with the quality and diversity we received. It’s just so amazing to have a piece of work that has so many contributors from across the whole country and that really resonates with how the majority of us have connected with nature during these difficult times" she told us “The idea behind The Symphony

of the Countryside was to give participating rural communities the chance to share their ideas online and understand each other better as a result. The connection with professional artists drew these ideas and thoughts into a coherent artistic product”, explained Tim Smithies from Carn to Cove.

Holly Lombardo, Director of National Rural Touring Forum, who provided funding to help make the project happen. “We wanted to support initiatives that reached communities in lockdown, in meaningful and creative ways. We were looking for projects that captured the process of delivering art and culture, while supporting artists and those in isolation”, she said.

The resulting film is an evocative 17 minutes of our rural landscape - just hit play above and enjoy. Sound up!

Bathing Robin Š Carl Bovis (@CarlBovisNature)

Beautiful 2021 calendars now available from popular West Country bird photographer.

Carl Bovis' evocative and humourous photography has won him a large and loyal following on social media - with almost 55,000 fans on Twitter. And justifiably so his work is not only technically excellent, but also fun, characterful and keenly observed, making it a joy for all who are allowed to share in

the results of his passion.

His book '100 Birds' is a delight for any bird lover, and his 2021 calendars are selling fast. Both will make perfect gifts - go straight to his online shop by clicking the images below.

The importance of the untidy gardener

Our local wildlife columnist is North Dorset resident

Brigit Strawbridge Naturalist, wildlife gardener, well-known British environmentalist and bee advocate.

A ‘charm’ of goldfinches has just landed on the lavender bush at the bottom of our garden. I can count eleven in all; two more than yesterday, and five more than the day before. Word must be getting around…

Our lavender finished flowering months ago, as did many of the other flowering plants in our garden, but though these plants are no longer producing nectar and pollen for insect visitors, this does not diminish their value to other garden wildlife. On the contrary, by resisting the temptation to cut back and ‘tidy up’ at this time of year, we gardeners and allotment holders are providing a life-line for all manner of wild creatures as they prepare to face the challenging winter months ahead. As well as the goldfinches (and other birds) who feast on their nutritious seeds, dead standing plants

provide much needed shelter and protection for numerous invertebrates, including many who nest or hibernate over winter inside their hollow stems.

To top if off, seed heads are stunning, diverse, and even more beautiful in shape and form, in some cases, than the plants were whilst in bloom.

Equally important for wildlife, if not more so, are fallen leaves. In fact it is impossible to overstate the value of ‘leaf litter’ which, as well as providing a rich layer of humus for the soil, is ‘home’ to spiders, worms, beetles, globular spring tails (new to me and adorably cute!) and many more mini-beasts besides. And of course these invertebrates provide an invaluable proteinrich source of food for birds, amphibians, and small mammals.

So, on behalf of all the

image: Carl Bovis Follow him in Twitter here

invertebrates, birds, small mammals, amphibians and other wild creatures who helped make ‘lockdown’ more bearable for you earlier this year, please… try to resist the temptation to strip your borders bare, and leave at least some of the leaves in your garden for wildlife. If you do need your lawn to be free of leaves, then consider gathering them up whole and, where space allows, create a leaf pile habitat. If you are short on space, place them around shrubs, ornamental trees and perennials, so they can break down naturally whilst still providing a resource for your wild visitors.

You can contact Brigit or buy her book Dancing With Bees (please do, it's beautiful and will make a perfect Christmas Gift) via her website here.

ANIMALS

A Vet's Voice: Beware the Fleas... from the Small Animal Team at Damory Vets, Blandford

One common query we get every year as winter approaches is about fleas.

Animals get fleas from other animals, and from the external environment. Did you know that although fleas lay eggs on your pet the eggs only stay on the animal for a short period of time before they drop off into the environment? Within 3-5 days the eggs in the house can hatch into larvae that burrow into furnishings in the home.

Because of this, a shocking 90-95% of fleas live in the environment and the visible fleas you see on your pet only make up 5-10% of the population in your home.

Fleas survive best in warm, humid environments, so the autumn and winter are particularly prolific times for fleas as you start to turn on your heating, making the house the perfect temperature for fleas to thrive and breed.

Another reason these seasons are perfect for fleas is that your pet's coats change and become thicker, creating an ideal environment for fleas to survive in.

Controlling fleas at this time of year requires multiple approaches. It is important to treat your pets with flea products to stop them getting infested and bringing fleas into the home; your vets will sell a range of

prescription products that will prevent and kill fleas on your pet.

However, it is also equally important to control the fleas in the environment; in particular on the pet’s bedding, carpets, sofas and blankets. To get rid of the fleas in the environment it is important to wash your pet's bedding regularly at over 50

degrees Celsius. Hoovering carpets regularly, including under the sofas and furniture, is important too. Additionally, there are household insecticides available that can be sprayed on furnishings to eliminate fleas.

We hope you and your pets enjoy a pest free Autumn from the Small Animal Team at Damory Vets.

ANIMALS

Lockdown blow to animal charity Given the most recent Government Guidelines Margaret Green Animal Rescue has again being forced to close its doors to the public. The impact of this is huge - even though the animals will continue to be cared for throughout lockdown, they will be unable to be rehomed until the lockdown is lifted.

offer assistance to temporarily board animals belonging to frontline NHS workers who may find themselves in a change of circumstance and need support. The offer is also being made available to serving police staff and frontline Dorset and BCP Council Social Services care workers.

Having been successfully rehoming animals for 55 years, Margaret Green Animal Rescue will raise less funds this year from fundraising due to a lack of local events, and with their charity shops and pet boarding closed, their income will be significantly reduced - whilst the costs of caring for the animals remains.

The lockdown news comes as a big blow, with winter approaching and the need to provide bedding and food for the rescue animals increasing. There is an even bigger urgency to raise funds and the charity are looking at creative ways they can continue to fundraise.

Geoff Wright, CEO commented With many empty boarding “We continue to provide the units available they continue to highest care for the animals at

Huge price hikes for popular dog breeds in 2020.

Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Pugs and Chow Chows - has shot up since March.

Anyone who's considered getting a dog this year (with millions of people working from home demand for puppies has soared, with Google searches for ‘buy a puppy’ increasing by 166% since March) will have been staggered by the sheer cost of a new puppy.

Dachsund puppies were on average £973 in March. By June that figure for your new puppy was £1,838.

Dogs Trust is urging people to be alert to the perils of buying via New statistics show prices for online adverts, to avoid being some of the UK’s most desirable dog breeds reached record levels, duped, or Dogfished, and to as some sellers exploited demand remind potential new owners to never hand over a deposit before for puppies during lockdown. seeing the dog in person**. This Dogs Trust can reveal these comes against the backdrop of breeds are among those most likely to be illegally imported into people contacting Dogs Trust to the country via puppy smuggling, say they have been victims of scams during coronavirus a cruel practice the charity have lockdown. fought against for several years.

Dogs Trust’s research has revealed that the asking price for five of the UK’s most sought after breeds (and the five breeds most often smuggled into the country) – Dachshunds, English

What to do to avoid being Dogfished Sadly, it is all too easy to buy a dog which may not be what it

our rescue centres. Their welfare is and always will be our priority.

Thank you to all our staff and volunteers who have worked so hard in recent months to keep our doors open. We are extremely grateful to those who have shopped with us or made a donation, it really does make a huge difference to the lives of rescue animals. If you are able to make a donation this Christmas please do so by clicking here.

Thank you”.

seems. Dogs Trust call this Dogfishing. Remember: • Always see puppy and their mum together at their home, and visit more than once, even if it is via video call.

• Never pay a deposit up front without seeing the puppy in person.

• Ask lots of questions, see all vital paperwork, such as a puppy contract (with parents, breed, health, diet etc.)

• If you have any doubts or feel pressured to buy, walk away and report the seller to Trading Standards.

Husband and wife team open new independent veterinary surgery in Wimborne Ten jobs have been created with Chris and Sam Devlin having invested £600,000 into the new venture.

the same vet, making sure theget the right amount of time with them on each and every visit.”

The surgery includes separate waiting areas for dogs and cats/ rabbits as well as separate kennelling facilities.

At the time of writing, the refurbishment and fit-out work on Vetsmiths’ new premises on West Borough are in the last weeks leading up to their opening on Monday, 30 November.

The former GP surgery (and then job centre) has undergone a complete refurbishment by local builders Banyard Construction, with a high-end finish and incredible attention to detail.

Much thought has gone into Vetsmiths vision; Sam said, “It’s all about building those special relationships throughout the lifetime of your pet. Being independent is the only way to meet the inevitably high standards that pet owners want and deserve. Our clients will see

Careful attention has been paid to provide the best kennels with no bars in sight. The units are made using toughened glass, instead of stainless steel, which the couple say creates a warm and quiet environment to improve and speed recovery.

During his 17 years of business ownership, Chris developed a detailed understanding of the profitable running of a small business with a keen interest in management.

He also retained a high clinical workload and grew a large and loyal client base.

Chris said: “We established Vetsmiths with our fantastic team to give our clients and their animals the best experience.

“We’ve lived in the area for many years and wanted a vet that looks after the pets and supports the families of our local community.”

Vetsmiths have ample client parking to the rear with a dedicated disabled/emergency space and disabled access. Entry to the car park is opposite The Olive Branch on East Borough and sharing the access way with the Wetherspoon’s The Man in the Wall pub.

Vetsmiths can be found at 14 West Borough, Wimborne, BH21 1NF and you can visit their website at www.vetsmiths.co.uk.

Dame Judi Dench to Judge Children's Poetry Competition In Aid Of Endangered Barn Owls Hundreds of Dorset schoolchildren wanting to save the endangered Barn Owls at Bere Marsh Farm have had a dramatic boost to their new poetry and performance competition from one of Britain’s most illustrious and decorated actresses, Dame Judi Dench.

The Oscar and BAFTA awards winning star has thrilled youngsters and teachers at schools throughout the Blandford and Sturminster Newton areas by agreeing to judge the ‘Icons of the Landscape’ competition in support of the fund raising campaign to replace the roof on the beloved owls’ tumbledown home in which they have nested and reared young for over 20 years.

‘It is no exaggeration to say excitement levels are through the roof,’ says Charlotte Weatherley, Assistant Head of Knighton House School and creator of the Icons competition.

‘We are absolutely delighted by Dame Judi’s wonderful gesture of support as she will be offering her expertise to our young writers and performers and casting an expert gaze over their efforts.'

the Blandford Schools Network, including Bryanston, Knighton House, The Blandford School and eight local primary schools, as well as five specially invited schools including Sturminster Newton High, William Barnes Primary, St Nicholas Primary, Clayesmore School (Prep and Senior School) and Hanford Prep School.

Overall, it is anticipated that close to 1,000 youngsters will take part in the competition for which the closing date is November 16.

It is in support of the £30,000 fund raising campaign we covered last month by the wildlife friendly farming charity, the Countryside Restoration Trust, after the purchase of the iconic Bere Marsh Farm at Shillingstone, near Blandford Forum.

The Barn Owls, much-loved by The competition, which has a families, ramblers, naturalists junior section for the 7-11 age and cyclists using trailways and group and a senior category open footpaths which cross the 92to 12-14yr olds, requires entrants acre farm, are in severe danger to write, perform and record a of becoming homeless - just poem inspired by the term 'Icons before the onset of winter of the Landscape'. because the roof of their ancient barn is on the brink of collapse.

They can, if they wish, ask someone else to perform it or be The support and enthusiasm of joined by others in their own the schools for the beloved owls performance. struck Dame Judi, Patron of the It is open to all the schools in

Countryside Restoration Trust, and she decided the youngsters should get her support.

Joining her in the judging duties will be local Dorset poet and writer, David Caddy, author of eight books and editor of the international literary journal, Tears in the Fence.

Says Elaine Spencer White, CRT manager at Bere Marsh, ‘Icons of the Landscape is a wonderful tribute to the barn owls and a brilliant subject for a poetry competition. I’m sure it will inspire some terrific entries and Dame Judi with David Caddy will have a very challenging time picking the winners.

‘We are grateful to all the schools and pupils who are participating and are delighted that the owls have evoked such affection and support.

‘Saving them is paramount – they are the very symbols of Bere Marsh and our oldest residents.’

Announcement of the winning entries and runners up will be on November 27.

Take a Hike...

Our favourite 'Bulbarrow Peaks' circular, with magnificent Vale views 14.4 miles.

Setting off around the side of Rawlsbury Camp we were set for a pretty wet day.

A long hike each month, not always in the Vale but always within reach for a day's walk.

We've always created the route and walked it recently ourselves - we aim to create interesting, unpopulated routes with as little road and as many views as possible!

You can always see the route and follow it yourself via the free ViewRanger app see all our routes here.

We usually do 10-15 miles - let me know if you'd like different distances.

Following one of the main ancient holloways through the Dorsetshire Gap forest. Spot Courtenay and you'll gain the perspective of the trees!

A rare spot of sunshine as we look out across Lyscombe Bottom

Such a beautiful route across the local ridge lines, starting at Rawlsbury Camp.

Clearly signed paths, huge views, but a LOT of uphill - expect tired legs by the end!

Ancient forests, drovers tracks, the Dorsetshire Gap, minimal roads.

A couple of spots will be very muddy after bad weather.

The ancient green lane to Gallows Corner

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE FULL 5* RATED ROUTE We use the premium version, but the free version of the Viewranger App is excellent.

A favourite pause where the bridleways cross on the ridge of Lyscombe Hill

Image on the left is of the woods at Bryanston Woods, and is courtesy of Mark from Skyfast Media, a filming, photography, animation, time-

lapse and 360° virtual reality production company.

Locals might still be looking daily at his 2020 calendar, produced for Blandford Town Council!

Mark has a selection of his amazing local aerial photography

available for prints - they make a great gift, or perfect for brightening up your interiors with a breath of wide open spaces this coming winter.

Visit Mark's website to view his gallery here.

Great Response to the Sherborne Business Awards Launch The October launch of the Sherborne Business Awards proved a big success with over 200 viewings of the livestreamed event.

The launch was held at Leweston School, just outside Sherborne, and hosted by the broadcaster Rick Simmonds.

Laura Hitchcock from the digital Blackmore Vale.

Said Nigel Reeve of Marketing West "It was a pity the launch couldn't be open for people to attend but, current restrictions made that impossible. However, the feedback to the streaming has been great and resulted in many more businesses being able to see the launch. The awards ceremony is due at the end of February and will now be

Rick introduced Nigel Reeve of Marketing West, the organisers of the awards, who explained that the awards were to promote the range of Sherborne based businesses.

The launch then included updates from Jane Wood, President of the Sherborne Chamber, Rebecca Burns from the Sherborne Indies Group, Councillor Bill Taylor from Sherborne Town Council and streamed live, whatever the

restrictions are at the time".

When asked about entries and sponsorship, Reeve added, "We have already placed over half the category sponsorship available, while the awards entry forms are now on-line. Entries have started coming in. To enter people just need to go to the website (www. sherbornebusinessawards.co.uk) and fill out the entry form. It's as simple as that."

OUT OF DOORS

Old Places, New Adventures As 2020 reaches a gloomy conclusion, I wonder how the rich variety of seasonal events across the Vale will fare.

Winter is not always conducive to walking and exploring remote corners of the Vale but there are normally opportunities to experience the festive season in our market towns.

Since the 13th century the right to hold markets and fairs was much sought after as a source of revenue. Kings granted a charter and the Abbots of local monasteries (Sherborne, Shaftesbury, Cerne Abbas) and the Bishop of Salisbury Diocese often controlled the trade. Most fairs & markets were originally held in connection with local religious festivals.

Local people looked forward to these events as times of jollity.

In North Dorset, tradition stated never eat blackberries after Shroton Fair.(Iwerne Courtney) which is one of the oldest in England, founded more than 700 years ago.

This fair is traditionally held in late September, by which time blackberries are probably past their pick-by date. Tradition said that the devil had spat on the berries after this date.

The weekly market system created a network of trade which was vitally important to our rural economies. Indeed, the local network of lanes and bridleways

By Paul Birbeck, Blue Badge Tour Guide.

is built upon the paths used by our trading ancestors.

Seasonal markets evolved.

Country communities were often isolated and communication difficult, so markets and fairs provided an opportunity not only to trade but importantly to meet friends and socialize. Most were small and modest, but larger specialised markets developed across the Vale. They would have been lively places with auctions and stalls selling and buying local wares. Country folk would have streamed in from the surrounding area to join in.

In a 'normal’ year these Christmas markets still perform an important function, with all our market towns hosting a version, building upon traditions that are centuries old. The town centres come alive, often coinciding with the official treelighting, hosting a wide array of stalls selling fresh local produce and artisan gifts. There is often seasonal street food to sample, as well as regionally produced drinks.

Sadly it's 2020 - as I write this Sherborne has just cancelled it's Festive Shopping, and other towns are likely to follow. The award-winning Christmas display at Castle Gardens will receive few visitors this year.

If the Covid restrictions are lifted in early December some form of markets may occur, but more likely, they will all become innocent victims of the pandemic.

Goose Markets were once

associated with early winter; Michaelmas was the celebration which encouraged protection during these dark months.

According to tradition, a well fattened goose, fed on the stubble from the fields after the harvest, is eaten to protect against financial need in the family for the next year;

“Eat a goose on Michaelmas Day, want not for money all the year”.

A sentiment that many of us would appreciate in 2020!

Sometimes the day was known as “Goose Day” and goose fairs were held. These died out long ago, but around the Vale, local farm enterprises still breed and sell geese for the Christmas table.

The Empire Farm on the edge of the Blackmore Vale, just south of Wincanton, and Goose Slade Farm near East Coker both focus on organic, free range production methods. In recent years a Charity Goose Fair has been held at the rear Gaggle of Geese pub in Buckland Newton.

Hopefully, all is not lost and we may be able to salvage some seasonal events if we return to the regional tiered lockdown in early December.

Next month: ancient seasonal traditions associated with the Vale.

IN THE GARDEN

The Voice of The Allotment

with Barry Cuff

Val and I acquired this allotment in 1989, and have worked it ever since.

It is 330 square metres, and is divided into four plots, three of equal size for vegetables, and a smaller one for soft fruit.

We practice a six year rotation with our vegetables to avoid a build up of soil borne diseases.

The site is managed by Sturminster Newton Allotment Association to whom we pay an annual rent of 15p a square meter. Our water is obtained from the on-site well, with a mains supply if the well runs dry.

The fertility is kept in good order by farmyard manure delivered to the site and our own homemade compost.

With above average October rainfall some work on the plot has been delayed, including spreading the manure which arrived at the beginning of the month.

There was plenty to harvest, including the last of the runner and French beans. The brassicas have done exceptionally well with some large cauliflowers and good heads of calabrese. We are digging carrots and beetroots as

we need them. Celeriac is another vegetable we grow and these are now ready to harvest again as we need them.

As the waiting lists for allotments grow across the country we are fortunate to have a large plot.

Barry's allotment in Sturminster Newton

IN THE GARDEN Thanks to Lockdown #2 we've been unable to bring you the Thorngrove team this month. But fear not - we pulled some strings and have brought you Thompson & Morgan instead. Hope they'll suffice... Ed

What to do in the garden in November November is here - the leaves are falling and it’s getting colder and wetter.

As autumn turns to winter, your main jobs in the garden are mostly about protecting plants and structures from the wilder weather to come.

There’s still some planting to do if you want to keep growing - You can sow sweet peas in a cool greenhouse or cold frame for an early display next year.

Try also growing perennials such as Laurentia, Delphinium, Verbascum, Foxglove and Lupin from seed in the greenhouse.

Outdoors, plant spring flowering bulbs such as tulips remembering to avoid shallow planting as this can reduce the winter cold period that tulip bulbs need to produce flowers in spring.

As the weather starts to get more wintry, your garden needs some protection: • Insulate your outdoor containers from frosts, using hessian or bubble wrap held in place with garden twine.

Raise pots off the ground for the winter by using bricks or 'pot feet', to prevent waterlogging.

• Protect roses from wind rock by pruning them by one-third to one-half their height. This will stop them swaying in strong wind and prevent roots coming loose in the soil. Remove fallen leaves from around the base of any rose bushes which suffered from blackspot or rust this summer, to reduce the chance of reinfection next year.

• Lift dahlia tubers, begonias and gladiolus corms to store dry over the winter months. Remove the dead foliage before storing.

• Cut back the yellowing foliage of herbaceous perennials, and lift and divide overcrowded clumps to maintain their vigour.

• Reuse spent compost from annual container displays as a mulch on the garden.

• Aerate your lawn now - there's still time to do it before winter sets in. You can either use a lawn aerator or simply insert a garden fork at regular intervals and lean it back slightly to let air in, and

continue to clear fallen leaves off the lawn to keep it healthy.

• Clean out water butts and let the autumn rains refill them.

Perhaps install a new waterbutt ready for next year.

Lastly - take stock of this year’s garden and make a few notes or sketches for next spring. Reflect on what grew well, what failed miserably, and what changes you will make next year. You will be surprised at how useful these notes can be when you start ordering seeds and plants for next year!

Flowers in November

I’m really excited to have been asked to contribute to this fantastic local publication.

Let me introduce myself to those of you who I haven’t yet met: I’m a wedding and event florist with my studio at Spire Hill, next to Time After Thyme Café in Stalbridge and living in Henstridge, so I’m a local girl! I specialise in using seasonal English flowers - my love is scented garden roses and I combine hedgerow finds and cottage garden flower varieties to create arrangements and instillations.

Every month I’ll be covering what’s in season, what’s good to cut from the garden and I’d like to throw in some ideas of different types of arrangements and decorations that you can try at home.

Now we’re well into Autumn and only a few of our lovely English varieties are still in flower, interest must be sought elsewhere from berries, yellowing leaves, any fruit that is

still clutching to branches and flowers dried over the summer months.

Texture is very important in arrangements and berries, curly twigs and fruit all provide this. As it’s been relatively mild for this time of year, I still have a few roses and clematis providing one last flush before they tuck their heads down against the cold of the winter months.

with regards to vase life and although some such as Blue Pirouette and Star River are grown commercially for the floristry industry and stand up well to being cut for the house, most (especially those with large flowers) wilt quickly and are best enjoyed in the garden.

One staple of the Autumn border, the Japanese Anemone is great when cut, and even when it drops its petals the little globes that are Unfortunately the roses I have left on the elegant stems are planted in my garden are mainly equally as pleasing in an the David Austin varieties and arrangement. although exceptional in scent, So my advice this month would shape and colour, they are no be to use any dried grass heads good as cut flowers and drop that haven’t been flattened by the almost immediately. David wind and mix them with an array Austin and other growers have of of foliage - variegated is great late been investing heavily in add in some branches of sloes varieties that do have a ‘long and any salvias or solanum that vase life’ and these include are remaining in your garden and beauties such as Purity, Juliet, enjoy!

Eugenie and Kiera. However, these varieties are no good in the Oonagh Langrishe garden and can only be ordered www.theenglishflorist.co.uk through your local florist.

Clematis again are hit and miss

ADVERTORIAL

Christmas won’t be quite the same this year, but spreading festive cheer and goodwill has never been more important. Cranborne Garden Centre is a peaceful oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the high street, set in the beautiful walled garden with plenty of space and free parking. It is the perfect one-stop destination for all your festive shopping!

There are stunning decorations for your tree, home and table, plus environmentally friendly crackers, cards and gift-wrap.

You can’t beat the evocative smell of a natural Christmas tree and locally grown Cranborne Estate trees will be on sale from 27th November, with plenty of space outside to choose your perfect tree with help from friendly staff.

The Gift Shop is piled high with interesting and eclectic gifts and stocking fillers – with choices to suit all ages. The Vintage Barn offers a quirky selection of brocante and curios and the beautiful plants, pots and gardenalia are ideal gifts for those who’ve embraced gardening during lock-down.

The spacious Garden Room Café serves breakfast, lunch, homemade cakes and festive treats (to book call 01725 517248). Cranborne Garden Centre is open daily 10am – 4pm but CLOSED on Tuesdays.

Visit the website for more information www. cranbornegardencentre.co.uk

OUT OF DOORS

Do you know where your logs come from?

In February you'll need to.

Homeowners must use ‘cleaner alternatives’ for open fires and woodburning stoves from 2021.

'Wet wood' logs have not been purposefully dried out to reduce

their moisture content after being chopped down or collected.

Jim Cooper from The Log Store Group approves of the move to cleaner fuel.

Sales of these in small units (less than 2 cubic metres) will be phased out from February 2021.

'As a local family company delivering fully compliant kiln dried wood across Dorset and South Somerset we applaud the new legislation.

Bags of wet wood logs are often on sale in DIY stores, garden centres and petrol stations.

Unsurprisingly, burning wet wood (over 20% moisture) gives little heat - water never burns well! But it also causes potential damage to fire and chimney and most importantly has been identified as the most damaging pollutant after diesel emissions.'

Instead of using wet wood, homeowners will be instructed to burn 'dry' wood or smokeless fuel instead – both of which are more expensive.

Around 2.5million tons of logs are sold in the UK each year, of which 90 per cent are wet wood.

About 40 per cent of harmful “particulate matter” emitted in the UK comes from the burning of wood and coal in homes, according to the government — more than double the amount from diesel cars.

“Cosy open fires and woodburning stoves are at the heart of many homes up and down the country,” said George Eustice, the environment secretary.

OUT OF DOORS “But the use of certain fuels means that they are also the biggest source of the most harmful pollutant that is affecting people in the UK.” Sales of all bagged house coal will be phased out by February 2021, while the sale of loose coal will removed from the market by February 2023.

In contrast, sales of wet wood below two cubic metres, roughly equivalent to a small van load, will be “restricted” from sale from February 2021, to allow existing stocks to be used up.

Hugo James, from Littlewood Logs, Frampton is pleased the law is changing 'The ban can’t happen soon enough; I only sell logs under 20% moisture. Buying logs from the customers point of view is filled with traps and

grey areas; what do you get for your money? Do you buy in volume or weight? How do you measure moisture? Will the logs all be hardwood as stated in the advert?'

Robert Wallis from Mid Dorset Logs at Ansty agrees 'We feel it's a positive move. As a professional and long standing log supplier, the quality of our product has long met the standard required. We chose to become Woodsure accredited and passed the audit with ease - this means you can be sure your wood is of a standard to burn hotter and more efficiently, creating less soot that causes damage to your log burner and flue. Yes your logs may cost a few pounds more, but you will use less of them and save your equipment from the potential damage of wet wood.'

Heather Brown is a food writer and home economist with a passion for Dorset’s brilliant foodie scene. Heather runs Dorset Foodie Feed which helps to champion Dorset’s food and drink businesses, as well as working with clients to recipe test, write food based copy, help foodie businesses with their online presence and make food for digital content.

IG: @dorsetfoodiefeed

Christmas Cake

by Heather Brown

Whether it's November and you are thinking about baking your Christmas cake so it has plenty of time for the flavours to develop, or it's Christmas Eve and you are rushing to get everything done, then this recipe will provide you with that delicious deep Christmassy flavour - honestly, whether you make it 2 months or 2 days before Christmas.

The secret is cooking together many of the ingredients in a saucepan before baking, which speeds up the flavour development in the cake and helps to keep the cake lovely and moist.

Ingredients • 10oz currants • 12oz sultanas • 3oz dried cherries • 1 lemon (zest and juice) • 1 orange (zest and juice) • 2tbsp rum (spiced rum works really

I have chosen to use dried cherries instead of glacé, and to add a little cherry jam as I love the slight tang of the cherry against the sweetness of the cake.

The Cherry Tree, located near Bridport have two lovely cherry jams, one of which recently won a Taste of the West award. I also add in some spiced rum in place of the more traditional brandy as I think it really adds to all the spices in the mixture.

My current fave is Lugger Spiced Rum made by Lyme Bay Winery, just over the border in Devon. sherry or brandy)

• 1tsp mixed spice • 1/2 tsp cinnamon • 1tbsp cherry jam • 5oz butter • 6oz soft brown sugar • 4 eggs • 7oz plain flour

well here but you can also use

Method:

•

In a large saucepan add the currants, sultanas, dried cherries, orange zest and juice, lemon zest and juice, rum, mixed spice, cinnamon, jam, butter and sugar (everything except the eggs and flour!). Cook together on a medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring regularly so that it doesn't burn on the bottom and all the sugar and butter melt and coat the fruit. Take off the heat and leave to cool for 30 minutes.

•

Whilst the ingredients are cooling, spend some time lining your 8″ round tin. As laborious and fiddly as this step is, it is well worth the effort as it helps stop the edges from drying out. Line the insides with 2 layers of baking parchment. Then take some brown paper and line the outside of the tin, making sure to have a couple of inches above the tin too, and tie with string to secure.

• • •

Preheat the oven to 140 fan/gas mark 1.

Once the fruit mixture has cooled, carefully stir in the eggs. Then stir in the flour.

Place the mixture in the tin and then bake in the oven for 2.5 hours. Check the cake every 15-30 minutes after the initial 2.5 hours, until a skewer inserted into the middle of the cake comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the tin.

•

If you have made the cake in advance*, once the cake is cold, wrap the cake in a layer of baking parchment, a layer of foil and place in an airtight container. You can bake up to 3 months in advance and keep the cake in this way.

•

If you would like to – every 2 weeks, poke the cake a number of times with a skewer and spoon over some more rum. This is called ‘feeding’ the cake (and it also makes the cake slightly alcoholic so be careful if you know children will be eating the cake!).

•

About 1 week before Christmas, you can ice the cake however you fancy.

* If you're not making ahead, then once cold, the cake can be covered straightaway with a layer of marzipan and icing ready for Christmas Day.

An extra note from Heather on baking a Christmas Cake: (she doesn't know I'm printing this bit... ssshhhh.

When I admitted I had never made my own Christmas Cake (I know, I know. Me, the midnight comfort-baker too), she sent me such a useful extra note I wanted to share it! - Ed)

Christmas cakes so often end up dry because of the long cooking time that people end up filling them full of brandy to cover it up ...and either way, no one wants a dry cake or an overwhelmingly boozy cake and it tends to put people off.

The key to making one at home is the wrapping of the tin before you bake. Double layer inside

and brown paper on the outside. Totally fiddly but leaves you with a lovely cake at the end as it protects it from being scorched in the oven.

When it comes to the icing - you can buy both ready rolled fondant or ready made royal icing from most supermarkets so it’s much better now than it used to be to ice the cake quickly and easily.

At the end of the day though, you can do whatever you want with a fruit cake, they are incredibly forgiving! You can add different dried fruits, nuts, different jams or spirits, just keep the ratios of the recipe the same. Make it your own and start your own Christmas cake tradition!

Much love x

Dorset Foodie Feed launch a searchable Directory of nearly 500 of Dorset’s food and drink businesses in time for Lockdown 2.

With a fully searchable map, consumers can search for businesses by location, region or business type - helping local residents find their nearest butcher, baker, fishmonger, milk vending machine, brewery, farm shop, bar, cafe or restaurant… and everything in between.

The Directory allows any Dorset based food or drink business to have a free listing including a location, contact details and link to their website, as well as any changes due to Lockdown restrictions.

When Lockdown forced the closure of the hospitality industry in March, Heather began to collate lists of businesses that were remaining open, in the hopes of connecting consumers with local businesses. Those lists were viewed more than 15,000 times in 3 months and it was those lists that sparked the idea to create a more permanent Directory that can flex around any future lockdown restrictions.

Heather hopes that this Directory will be a way of encouraging people to find out how they can support their local businesses and how many options they have close to them.

“I have had the pleasure of

sampling lots of Dorset created products and have met and chatted to many local artisans, farmers and chefs. They all have one thing in common - their love for their product, and that shines through in its quality and taste.

If I can help encourage people to try something new from a business in Dorset then hopefully we can all work together to support each other through this difficult season.”

Dorset Foodie Feed’s Directory is free to list so if your business (or your favourite business!) is not listed then please email Heather on info@dorset.foodiefeed.co.uk to get added.

You can visit the Directory by visiting dorset.foodiefeed.co.uk/ directory - or click the map below!

FOOD AND DRINK

Pass the Port

by Sadie Wilkins, Indie Wine Merchant, Vineyards of Sherborne

The Treaty of Windsor in 1386 strengthened the relationship between England and Portugal. A little later, Charles II restricted French imports, meaning we sought wine from elsewhere; and then, a little later than that, the English merchants at Viana do Castelo escalated their efforts to produce wine - which took the route down the Douro and was shipped from Oporto. These events, amongst many others, have contributed to the transformation of acidic red wine, made in Portugal, to delicious fortified wine made from indigenous grapes that is synonymous with Oporto.

Or as I call it, 'Oh, Port Ooohhhhh!'

So, what is Port?

The short answer is: a fortified wine, made using a proportion of grape spirit - or Brandy - as part of the production process. As the Brandy is added before the wine fully ferments, you are left with a natural sweetness that is rich, smooth and complex.

Then, the really exciting part of exploring Port is the different styles, which each have their own distinct flavours.

• Vintage - are an expression of a ‘single best year’ that is declared and they’ll spend a couple of years in vat, then finish their ageing in the bottle. Although they can be opened ‘young’, vintage ports are at their best with a few decades of ageing in the bottle. More robust and powerful on the palate.

• Tawny - my personal favourite; they are aged for longer in oak casks, meaning oxidisation occurs throughout and they have sexy, mellow, nutty flavours and hints of caramel. They also last for a few weeks once opened as they already know what it’s like to ‘feel oxygen.’

• White Port - made from white grapes, aged for 2-3 years in a vat, and often overlooked, these ports come in sweet and dry styles, but really come into their own when chilled in the summer and served with a tonic and nibbles.

On the topic of food, one word: cheese. There’s a port style for every cheese - even blue. It really is something to write home about…

image by N.Dodgson

Port has a fantastic ageing Despite wine from potential; depending on the Portugal being years spent doing so, and the referenced by Strabo vessel in which the maturation takes place - bottle or barrel - the 2000 years ago, and flavours that end up bursting the planting of vines onto your palate can vary a lot. on the banks of the A whistle stop tour of Douro Valley by the Romans in the second some key Port styles century BC, Port, as we in 100 words: know it, wasn’t • Ruby - full bodied, fruity little established until the numbers that usually have 2-3 latter part of the 17th years in vat and ooze berries on the palate. century.

If you are wanting to explore Port in more depth, and have a tipple with us as you do, we have a great virtual masterclass event planned for next week: VINEYARDS LIVE SERIES: VIRTUAL PORT TASTING EVENT FRIDAY 13TH NOVEMBER 7:30pm with guest speakers from Taylor’s Port in Oporto and Mentzendorrf UK. £60 per ‘Port case’ - delivered.

Includes 5 port styles in total: 2x full sized bottles, 1x 357ml bottle, 1x 200ml bottle, and a 50ml bottle - plenty left to enjoy after the event!

THE BLACKMORE VALE FOOD & DRINK Image by Robin Goodlad, courtesy of the Dorset Meat Co.

A Blackmore Vale Cheeseboard

by Rachael Rowe

Artisan cheesemaking is on the increase and the Blackmore Vale is no exception.

There’s nothing like a good cheeseboard to finish off a celebratory meal. It’s also the perfect excuse to try something you haven’t tasted before, and filling your cheeseboard with locally produced cheeses is a positive way to support the local farming economy.

Good cheeseboards always have a hard cheese.

Keen’s Cheddar is produced on the edge of the Blackmore Vale in Wincanton where the family have been producing cheese since 1899. Their mature cheddar wedges and truckles are ideal for the festive season. Hardy is a Manchego style sheep cheese from the Book and Bucket Cheese Company which has a nutty sweetness that goes well with a rich red.

Another local cheese to include in a Blackmore Vale selection is the award winning Melbury from Woodlands Dairy near Blandford Forum. Named after the location near the fields where the sheep graze this is a semi-hard ewe’s milk cheese left to mature for seven months.

As for a blue cheese, the Blackmore Vale has several good choices.

Rachel Wareham recommends her Buckshaw Blewe made from her sheep herd at Holwell because: “It’s our original cheese but I have remodelled it to a creamier, crumblier cheese which is rich in flavour but not overpowering.”

North Dorset is of course renowned for Blue Vinny.

Woodbridge Farm near Sturminster Newton is the only place where this famous cheese is made and supplies can be gleaned from their milk vending machine. Newly launched blue cheese named Pratchett from The Book and Bucket Cheese Company is another choice perfect for Discworld fans.

There are several high quality artisan soft cheeses in the Blackmore Vale.

Carolyn Hopkins has been on the road with the Truckle Truck for two years and recommends the soft rind washed Francis by James Cheese of Child Okeford.

Their delightful Hambledon Hill cheese ball flavoured with garlic and herbs is another option.

Another of Carolyn’s cheeseboard choices is the distinctive Renegade Monk from Feltham’s Farm in Templecombe.

It’s another rind washed cheese, rinsed in ale as it matures. Its pungent smell will definitely

liven up your dinner party.

Brie should feature on every cheeseboard according to Peter Morgan from the Book and Bucket Cheese Company. “We make two. Blyton is a cows milk Brie and Shakespeare is made from sheep’s milk.” Peter also has a recommendation for that all important cheeseboard tipple apart from the usual port and wine: “A Martini and dirty because olives and cheese are a match made in heaven.”

There’s so much choice in the Blackmore Vale when it comes to cheese so you should be able to find a few quality local products for your cheeseboard.

And if you are unable to socialise with friends and family this Christmas there’s no need to despair when it comes to cheese.

Most of our local producers sell gift boxes which can be shipped all over the UK, so you can send a piece of the Blackmore Vale to them.

Rachael Rowe is a freelance food, health and travel writer in North Dorset. Her portfolio is at www.rachaelrowe.com

THE BLACKMORE VALE

FOOD & DRINK

Two local women invite you to ‘Go out for dinner at home’ Two creative and passionate Vale women have joined forces to create a beautiful business which has arrived at the perfect time for a locked down county.

Lucy Closier runs Bulbarrow Blooms, a family run fresh cut flower supplier based on her family farm in the heart of the Blackmore Vale. She met Louise Perry-Warnes through Young Farmers, and has always been impressed by Louise’s unique catering business Flames and Feasts.

with my floral decorations means that we can create a high end restaurant experience - but within peoples homes.’

Every weekend 'Dorset Doorstep Deliveries' produce and deliver restaurant quality seasonal suppers and lunches to feast on - sit back and enjoy a treat at home with the most gorgeous locally sourced flowers adorning your table.

Both women are passionate advocates of seasonal, sustainable & local produce, and they aim to bring you three course suppers, lunches, canapés & flowers using the very best the During lockdown this year, the West Country has to offer. Each two young mums got chatting, dish is colourful, full of flavour and had the idea of and made with love, with tastes collaborating on a joint project. inspired by Middle Eastern food But the single project quickly and of course Louise’s love of grew, and before long the two open fire cooking. women had created ‘Dorset Doorstep Delivery’.

‘In a year of awfulness, it’s actually been wonderful’ ‘It was just a perfect marriage of continued Lucy ‘working as a circumstances' explained Lucy team makes everything easier 'we both have similar experiences and, actually, more fun. We in working in events, are trying to regularly meet over Zoom, work around young children and bounce ideas back and forth, and have the same madly busy homes the sense of support and as well as our own businesses. understanding is amazing. We’re We both just felt there was an so excited about what we’ve opportunity to do something… created, and where it can grow’. more!’ she laughed at the irony.

‘Sometimes you get an idea that’s The service is entirely flexible, just too good to ignore. I love and tailored to individual needs; everything that Louise creates, whether you simply want a and complementing her food weekend lunch delivered to your

door, or you’re celebrating a big anniversary in lockdown and want to go all out, Dorset Doorstep Delivery have you covered. This month, of course, it’s purely a doorstep service, but post-lockdown, Lucy can arrive early to dress your table, and create the perfect setting.

Louise’s food will arrive fully prepared, and will come with step by step instructions for the finishing touches, with very simple assembly & reheating.

And then Lucy shows up the next day to remove all the mess!

It's a complete a la carte service you can pick and choose the specific service you’re looking for, and Lucy agrees they’re totally open to requests “at the moment it’s an entirely bespoke service’ she commented ‘everyone needs something different. But as we go along we’ll offer set packages for the most popular choices’ You can currently order a Dorset Doorstep Delivery via both Lucy’s Bulbarrow Blooms and Louise’s Flames & Feasts websites.

Prices start st £28pp for 2 courses plus canapés, and seasonal British flowers for £30.

Order by Wednesday lunchtime for delivery on Friday, Saturday or Sunday. Free delivery within 30 mins driving of Bulbarrow.

with Andrew Diprose of DORSETBIZNEWS

BUSINESS NEWS

Casey, 43, had struggled to find the right gift for a close friend’s 40th.

She ended up panic buying a rather expensive pair of earrings at the last minute.

But when the friend opened the box, her muted response told Casey that the earrings weren’t quite right.

She said: “What should have been a joyful experience turned out to be a little awkward for us both.”

It did, however, spark a gem of a business idea.

And that idea was to lead to Foke – an online business offering curated gifts, sourced from unusual, design-led independent brands.

Then either prepared in gift boxes in advance and sold online, or sourced bespoke based on budget and the tastes and interests of the recipient.

For Casey it was a dream business. She had always enjoyed giving gifts as much as receiving them.

And she always felt the gift giving experience should be as rewarding for both the giver and the recipient.

This fuels Foke’s mission and led to its tagline – “They’re happy. You’re happy.

We’re happy.”

Foke is run from Casey’s home in Hilton, about eight miles from Blandford.

The business is as much about the service as it is the products.

Each Foke gift is thoughtfully curated from a selection of handpicked brands, packaged in a luxury gift box and sent directly to the recipient.

Casey writes a gift message by hand on a notecard enclosed within every gift box.

The gift wrapping is done for free and so the customer pays the same as if they had bought each product separately.

“I’ve always been a little bit obsessed with how presents are wrapped and presented, I think half the joy of receiving a gift is the experience of opening it,” she said.

Casey previously owned a women’s clothing and lifestyle store in Blandford.

She said the key to the shop’s success was the personal experience offered to customers.

This not only included a personal

Casey Gregory

An unfortunate present purchase sparked Casey Gregory’s idea of a luxury online gift store. shopping service, but every item purchased was wrapped before being given to the customer.

All of Foke’s packaging is 100 per cent sustainable.

“Unfortunately, not as easy to achieve as you’d think,” said Casey.

Also, for each box sold, Foke clean a square metre of Dorset coastline “throughout the autumn and winter when all the tourists go home and the beach cleaning services stop,” she said.

Casey runs Foke with her husband Dan, a graphic designer, illustrator and animator, pictured right.

They have worked together for many years, as they also own a small boutique design agency called Caravan.

It means Dan has been able to design all of the branding and packaging for Foke and build the online store himself, saving the couple a huge amount of money during the start-up phase of the business.

His design background, which includes designing games and interactive comics for LEGO, also allows Foke to offer in-house branding services for any of their corporate clients wanting bespoke branded gift boxes for their corporate gifts.

Casey and Dan Gregory launched Foke in August 2019, initially to

Andrew Diprose is the Founder and Editor of Dorset Biz News, Dorset's No.1 business website

with Andrew Diprose of DORSETBIZNEWS BUSINESS NEWS corporate clients. The business then expanded though the winter to friends and family.

These included packets of seeds, gourmet popcorn and embroidery Dan added: “It’s been a bit of a kits. logistical nightmare as initially we Casey has already started The couple spent months weren’t expecting to sell the kind curating a selection of luxury researching their business plan of volume that we have been. autumn/winter gift edits ready for and independent suppliers before Christmas this year ranging from a “soft launch” to allow it to grow “Fortunately because most of our £23 to £84. slowly and organically. suppliers are small and we manage all areas of the business She is now running the business However, with the onset of Covid in-house, we have been able to full-time while Dan is currently lockdown this spring, they saw adjust to the demand with no juggling both businesses. sales soar as the appetite for problems and have been steadily personal, curated gifts rocketed. growing over the last six For a bespoke experience, people Casey said: “People wanted that months.” often call up with a budget, personal, helpful shopping explaining a little about who they assistant experience from the Lockdown resulted in a boom in are buying for and then Casey comfort and safety of their own sales of ‘Stay at Home’ gifts – a collates four different “gift edits” homes. new section of gift edits curated that the buyer can choose from.

“They couldn’t go out to the shops by Casey specifically for the Something tells us that Casey is but wanted to reach out to make needs of lockdown. in for a busy few months…!

Hall & Woodhouse has awarded more than £50,000 to 35 local causes through its Community Chest Awards.

loved ones smile.”

necessary the grants are for the survival of these local causes.

“The donations are going to a real mix of charities across the south; from youth services to mental health support, to those that specialise in facilities for people with disabilities, to free computer access for those who The annual awards are an need it most.” initiative created by the The annual awards ceremony independent family-owned took place virtually this year and Dorset brewer.

The aims are to improve both the included an online beer and facilities and the lives of people in cheese tasting session led by Mark Woodhouse. the community by providing All winners and judges received a grants to local voluntary groups ‘Dorset Dozen’ beer box, a and causes that require financial selection of characterful and support. crafted Badger ales, along with Lucinda Gray, Company the recommended selection of Relationship Manager & Next Generation Family Director, said: accompanying cheeses, so that “In a year of such challenge, we’re guests could participate in the proud to be helping others make event online. a difference to their communities. As part of the Community Chest “We understand, and have heard Awards, an emergency fund of first-hand from the charities, how £9,500 was allocated to help local

causes earlier in the year during the nationwide lockdown.

Applications open for the 2021 Community Chest awards in March Voluntary groups can request funding from £300 to £5,000, to help achieve their aims.

Grants can be awarded for new equipment, training, transport or running costs, and made towards youth services, the elderly, or any other projects that enhance the local community. More details can be found here

BUSINESS NEWS

Sturminster Newton's Proudly Thriving in 2020 Sturminster Newton has proudly raised its head this year, through the adversity of Covid.

Our ancient Mill producing flour just when needed created an international reaction.

The BBC Radio 4 interview with Lord Price, which included positive comments from locals, showed us recognised as 'a town bucking the trend'; challenging, adapting and gaining community support.

Again in early October, there was a BBC Business news report which highlighted the town as being one of the most-viewed towns on Rightmove. Sturminster Newton has always been a place loved and valued by its town folk, but to be

recognised internationally and nationally did cause a bit of a “Stur”.

there are many more.

But, let us get to the nitty gritty of how things are locally. Oxfords Bakery shifted their location to a better-located empty premises.

Harts of Stur continued their pre Lockdown expansion plans. The Bank House Brasserie opened.

The Emporium opened. The former Oxfords Bakery premises has recently reopened as No.41.

The hairdressers Simply Hair changed hands to become Pure Hair. Stur of the Moment is about to reopen under new ownership.

Need I go on?

More importantly, new jobs have been created at Harts of Stur, Holebrooks, E.B Marsh & Son, Mumbai Bay, Stur of the Moment and these are the ones known about just in the last couple of weeks. Doubtless,

The following has been added 1st November 2020: The Late Night Opening planned for Friday 6th November included 18 of our town centre businesses, 17 food and drink stalls at the Producer’s Market and a further 18 craft stalls at The Exchange.

The lockdown has now forced a postponement, not a cancellation, so keep checking the SturBiz Facebook page for a new date in December.

Our local businesses will need your continued support through the forthcoming weeks, so do take a look at their websites.

Christmas is coming; please do consider shopping locally.

Jacqui Wragg Economic Development Coordinator for Sturminster Newton

We will be joined by Mandy Fitzmaurice from Purple HR. Mandy will be updating us on the latest Covid-19 support. All attendees will also have the opportunity to put questions to both Mandy and the rest of our WG Hub Live expert panel.

You can see all the previous Hub Live sessions here

BUSINESS NEWS

5 Ways to Get More Out of Your Black Friday Digital Marketing I can’t write about digital marketing in November without talking about Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

I know it’s unpopular with Indie businesses - but with November in our second lockdown, more purchases will be made online in time for Christmas than ever before. Statistics show that Brits plan to spend an estimated £6 billion on Black Friday and Cyber Monday purchases this year*. Consumers save their pennies, search out the best deals and stalk products they plan to buy, waiting for the best deals.

Black Friday falls on 27th November, and Cyber Monday on 30th , giving you plenty of time to organise your offers and deals: specific deadline 24 hours, 48 and clear imagery - lifestyle shots 1. Preparation is key: hours, don’t leave it indefinite as work really well as potential Prepare your offers/discounts in you need the time to increase customers can see how the advance, ensure you have FOMO and induce need to buy products will fit into their life. adequate stock and the levels are now!

Update on stock levels increasing correct in your shop. Clear your FOMO, make it easy and obvious diary as all you will be doing on how to purchase from social Black Friday is promotion, keep 3. Start teasing media too. your campaign on track and be customers: aware of the stock levels Don’t leave your Black Friday throughout the day.

5. Have something deals to the last minute. Start creating an interest in the special for regular 2. Be specific: products and your offers as soon customers: Instead of having an overall as with carefully scripted hints Send a newsletter out to your discount giving customers a huge and images. Let your customers regular customers with a range to choose from, place two know when and where these discount/offer just for them, this or three items on offer. By deals/offers will be available. in turn makes them feel valued. limiting the offer you spark interest, while increasing FOMO 4. Use social media: * https://www.finder.com/uk/black(fear of missing out) and desire Tag all your offers with friday-statistics from potential customers. Have a #BlackFriday, Use countdowns Joanne Dewberry is an Author, Sage Business Expert and multi award-winning, 30something coffee lover who lives in rural Dorset with her long-suffering partner and three children. When she isn’t writing or networking she is partial to a bag of crisps and a crime drama. Check out Joanne’s new book “Networking A Successful Small Business” which can be purchased via Amazon

Flea the Pandemic at the Exchange is postponed to January Sturminster Newton’s Taboo Theatre Company, working with playwright Sue Ashby, will still bring the story of this plague that killed untold millions across Europe to the stage of the town’s Exchange.

The premiere of Flea the Pandemic, Dorset 1348, directed

by Craig White, has been pushed back from November to the end of January 2021 by the latest lockdown.

The new dates are Friday 29th and Saturday 30th January 2021 (same times as before), and the Exchange will be re-allocating all tickets booked for November.

See more details on the FTR here

WHAT'S ON Meet your Local

What's On? Not a lot...

Quite obviously the What's On for November pages are pretty slim pickings this month. We've found some online events where we can - but we're hopeful that some things will reappear in December.

Do keep an eye on the FTR - it's updated daily, and will be the first place to know when local live performances begin again.

Gay Pirrie-Weir

Lighthouse temporary closure is only a pause not a stop.

soon as we can. Until we are advised otherwise all shows from and including Thursday 3 December will take place as advertised.

During this short period of closure our ticket office phone Following the recent Government lines will remain open from announcement Lighthouse, 10am to 5pm and tickets for Poole’s centre for the arts, has future shows after 2 December issued the following statement: will be available online at www.

‘Lighthouse will close from lighthousepoole.co.uk or by Thursday 5 November until phone on 01202 280000.

Wednesday 2 December.

CEO, Elspeth McBain said: “We Live performances, film have been so fortunate to have screenings and activities up to been open for the last six weeks and including Wednesday 4 and seen artists and audiences November will still be taking returning to our venue. This place and The Beacon Café will be second closure is a short pause open. and with determination, a can-do We will be in touch with ticket holders for all affected shows as

Keep #CulturallyConnected with Artsreach.

Whilst Artsreach aren't able to welcome touring performers to community venues at present, many of them are working hard to keep in touch with us all, releasing lots of creative content

attitude and our usual showbiz gusto we aim to be back for a fabulous Christmas season.

“We are grateful that the Government has permitted television production and performance rehearsals behind closed doors to continue and so the BSO live streamed concert series will continue.

“Thank you for your support, patience and understanding during this time. The team at Lighthouse appreciate this enormously.’

online. Artsreach have created Digital Diary to include as many events as they can find taking place digitally over the coming days and weeks that you might like to connect with.

See the Digital Diary by clicking here.

ART

The Art Stable, Gold Hill, Child Okeford Kelly Ross - Fine Art.

by Edwina Baines

Located in the cobbled courtyard of Gold Hill Organic Farm, next to the Café and farm shop, few art galleries can boast such an iconic location. On the sunny Saturday morning I visited, there were clusters of lycra-clad bikers and visitors enjoying the Café’s Cappuccinos and Mango Almond and Polenta Cake, whilst others chatted in the queue at the Farm Shop, all creating a friendly buzz. From the gallery’s doorway is a spectacular view of Hambledon Hill, an Iron Age hill fort: once the site of a Civil War battle, summer walkers can hope to see orchids and glow-worms on its ramparts.

Just a short walk from The Art Stable is Kelly’s home, with its backdrop of the Hill rising steeply to 190 metres above the Blackmore Vale and the River Stour. Indeed, the first revelation of our conversation was not only that she is an oboe player - but she is also an advocate of weekly wild swimming in this same River.

An invitation was issued to join her. I’ll let you know if I take up the offer!

Kelly grew up in the Lake District before spending time in Paris.

She studied for a History of Art degree which enabled her to begin her art career in several prestigious London Fine Art galleries. In 1999 she moved to Dorset to run the Summerleaze Gallery in Wiltshire; then in 2006, when the barn complex became available, Kelly founded The Art Stable here in Child Okeford. The downstairs gallery is mainly used for solo exhibitions; whilst another more relaxed upstairs space (complete with rustic beams) shows an ever-changing selection of 20th century modern British paintings, prints, and ceramics.

With an eye for talent as well as a caring insight into the Dorset community, Kelly brings national and international artists to her gallery. Up to eight exhibitions

2

Kelly Ross in the Art Stable image by Edwina Baines

are shown each year: whereas some London galleries (due to Covid restrictions) are not scheduling programmes for next year, her diary for 2021 and into 2022 was already pencilled in.

Sales have been extremely encouraging during lockdown: because people are spending more time at home, she feels they are more at leisure to consider their interior spaces and treat themselves. It was important to buy what one liked rather than for investment.

“Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful,” said Kelly, quoting William Morris.

Over the years Kelly has built up a close relationship with her own stable of artists, many of whom have become her friends. Some are local such as Charlie Baird, Liz Somerville, Ursula Leach, Amanda Vesey, Christopher Riisager, Henrietta Young, Gary Cook, Sally McLaren and Howard Phipps; whilst others are artists with whom Kelly has previously worked.

These include such artists as Tobit Roche, who composes beautifully simple and symbolic paintings of trees and clouds; and Thomas Denny, a stained-glass artist and painter who has made some fifty stunning windows for churches and cathedrals all over the UK. These include the Dorset millennium windows at Hinton St Mary and Tarrant Hinton - well worth a visit. Currently on show

visit. Currently on show in The Art Stable (until 14th November) is Felice Hodges, a Dorset artist who creates paintings that at first appear wholly abstract - but on continued reflection, seem rooted in a specific place or moment.

One might wonder how this little gem of a gallery can survive in the rural peace and quiet of a village farmyard?

But Kelly’s reputation spreads worldwide, with recent online sales to America and Australia from her daily Instagram posts.

“There’s a big wide world outside of Child Okeford including weekenders and Londoners,” commented Kelly. “Clients who like my ‘eye’ and what I show.

When I’m selecting work for my exhibitions, what I look for are artists who have found their own significant art-language, artists

whose particular style you can recognise.

In London I had to have a specific focus for an exhibition - but here I can show a wider variety of work, including things that are not necessarily going to be commercial.

If you’re at all interested in art it is good to see different art styles and mediums: that way you discover what you prefer. I like people to come and look and appreciate the artwork - and if they discover something new that they love, then that's even better.”

The next Art Stable show is the Christmas exhibition (with a still life theme) which was scheduled to run from 28th November to 19th December - hopefully it will be able to open post-lockdown on the 2nd. It will include

Paintings, Prints and Ceramics by Gallery Artists, and was to coincide with Child Okeford’s first Christmas Art Trail organised by village artist Sarah Jack: “to bring some Christmas cheer to our village”. Sixteen artists, painters, potters, glass blowers and scarf makers were offering Open Studios to see and buy their work.

So, when these things return to us, I encourage you to look out for the Art Trail, and visit the mellow Gold Hill complex - you can be assured of a warm welcome from Kelly at The Art Stable.

You can contact Edwina direct on edwina@theblackmorevale.co.uk

Kelly Ross in front of the current Felice Hodges exhibition. image by Edwina Baines

3

Are you a local artist keen to share some news or a new piece of work? We'd love to feature you!

Send it to us on editor@theblackmorevale.co.uk

Artist Snippets Sherborne based artist Lindsay Wilson focuses predominantly on subjects of wildlife, drawing upon the colours and textures within nature. Recently Lindsay has rekindled her passion and joy of art and crafts, working on commissions exploring new mediums and using various styles from pop art to pastels, acrylics and needle felting. www.trouvaillegallery.co.uk

HEALTH

Food for your Immune System

by Karen Geary, a Registered Nutritional Therapist DipION, mBANT, CNHC at Amplify

Nutrition isn’t a magic bullet for good immunity.

vegetarian and non-vegetarian protein are helpful e,g. meat, fish, and pulses.

Immunity is deeply interconnected to a series of factors that affect the immune system. Some claims about foods that supposedly support immunity are not always well evidenced.

Fats Olive oil, avocado, flax, butter; all support gut health. There are good fats in small quantities of unprocessed, unroasted and unsweetened nuts and seeds.

Omega 3 fats found primarily in flax and oily fish are antiinflammatory. I recommend keeping tinned fish such as sardines and mackerel as cheap and easy sources of obtaining good quality fat (and protein).

However, it is said that 70% of our immune system resides in the gut lining, so it makes sense that taking good care of the gut may be supportive of a balanced immune system.

Eating the ‘Rainbow’.

Different plants offer a unique range of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients, many of which function as antioxidants.

Half of your plate should be vegetables and fruit - your gut loves the diversity of fibre.

Think a minimum of 7 cups of plants daily, of different colours – five as vegetables and two of fruit. Frozen vegetables and fruit are great cost effective options.

Remember; include herbs and spices which have very high antioxidant content for their size and may be beneficial to the immune system.

Fermented Foods Fermented foods contain probiotics which boost good gut flora. One very good source is kefir (dairy or non-dairy), also kimchi, sauerkraut, kombucha, Roquefort cheese, miso.

Protein A lack of protein compromises immunity. Protein comprises of amino acids, some of which are crucial for immune functioning.

Good quality sources of

dramatically.

Hydration.

This is the primary way your immune system travels through the body. Drink up.

Cut out the crap.

The following are all inflammatory in their own way, impact gut health and dampen the immune response: • Junk, deep fried or processed foods.

• Processed foods marked ‘gluten free’.

• Industrial processed seed and vegetable oils, eg sunflower oil.

• Sugar. Depresses your immune system, and causes blood sugar imbalance • Alcohol – effectively weedkiller for your gut bugs, reducing the ability to produce immune cells.

Keep your blood sugar balanced.

If you do one thing, this is it.

Every time your blood sugar drops, the body releases stress hormones which dampen your immunity. Choose from slower burning or ‘complex If all this is overwhelming for you, carbohydrates’ which your gut just think of the famous Michael loves. These come from whole Pollan quote: grains, lentils, pulses, rather than refined sugars that initially spikes “Eat real food, not too your blood sugar and then drops

much, mostly plants”

Experienced Trainer & Gym Manager Roger Teasdale shares his personal tips and recommendations.

‘I eat healthily but I still can’t lose weight’ This is often heard from people who struggle with weight management. But what do they mean by eating ‘healthily’?

They usually mean that they include fruit, veg and the odd salad – great, there is some good nutrition there, but what is the overall picture?

All the contents and quantities of the meal need to be considered (including dressings!) along with everything else over the whole day plus your lifestyle in general.

If you're trying to lose weight, you need to be looking at your overall energy balance (calories in versus calories burned is a simple way to look at this).

Any time that you have lost weight (other than your normal fluctuations within a day – which can be as much as 2-3 pounds) is because you have expended more energy than you have taken in. This

Roger Teasdale

HEALTH

is the underlying science with any ‘diet’, weight-loss programme or latest celebrity ‘get-shredded’ plan.

They will present it in different ways of course; this could be by restricting your intake of - or banning certain foods on certain days, or it could be by calculating their own points system for your intake.

If you have found a system that works for you, then great – keep at it.

Rather than ‘going on a diet’, though, adjustments should be made to your diet/lifestyle that are realistic for the long term rather than aiming for a shortterm event or ‘new year, new me’ type goal.

People will often set unrealistic targets for the short term that are overly restrictive – this leads to low levels of adherence and when the event or the goal date arrives they would then switch back the old habits or even worse binge on the things that they have been denying themselves. Before long, the weight (and often more) will have gone back on.

If you have no idea on how much energy (calories) you are consuming each day then you are already making things harder for yourself. Try tracking your intake for a week either by diary or by an app such as MyFitnessPal. Remember to include everything and to weigh things to get your quantities right. Don’t try to change anything this week – use this as a data capture for what your normal is.

TO BE CONTINUED – next month will continue with tips and common pitfalls

BEAUTY Caroline from Amazing Face

Caroline is a multi-award winning Dorset makeup artist, who runs 'Amazing Face'.

Professional secrets from inside her beauty box.

Out Of The Beauty Box: Blender Sponges I love a natural, light long lasting finish, and to get that radiant look I use these little pink / multi coloured cute baby egg shaped sponges for that flawless finish .

These have become an industry must-have; they are honestly the most perfect way to apply your foundation giving you an airbrushed look no matter what.

This little industry gem can be used with any foundation/tinted moisturiser or creme blush.

Radiance primer), just wet the blender sponge until

completely saturated, squeeze and roll in a towel until it's almost dry, then dip it onto the product you are using.

I like to warm the product on the back of my hand first.

Now using a stippling / lightly tapping movement gently tap all over your face, with the more pointy end used around the eyes and nose. You will find this very How to use it... cooling, soothing and generally After cleaning, exfoliating, really pleasant compared to a moisturising and using a favourite brush! If you use too much just use a dry blender sponge to primer (I love Laura Merciers

remove excess like a rubber, lifting off any excess without leaving any marks; it's honestly magic!

The results... voila! You get a fantastic light coverage using less product, its seamless, undetectable and flawless; just what you're looking for.

Chat soon Caroline X Amazing Face Dorset Caroline@amazing-face.co.uk

ANNOUNCEMENTS

SITUATIONS VACANT

AUCTIONS

Ah. So here we are, blinking sadly and despondently into another month of our familiar friend The Lockdown. (if you're in a hurry - list your business or community group here http://bit.ly/BVLockdownSupplement) And yet, this is not like the Spring – this has not rushed upon us unprepared (I think we all saw it coming with the slow inexorable march of inevitability). We know this beast. And we can do it again.

So – here’s where we, the digital Blackmore Vale, find ourselves during lockdown; exactly where you always find us! Lockdown makes no difference at all to us.

But, aside from bringing your monthly local interest, we want and need to do more.

So we’re putting together a Lockdown Supplement, going direct into around 10,000 local homes – entirely free to all local businesses. A full magazine with listings of as many local businesses and community resources as we can who will still be operating throughout lockdown in whatever form they can manage.

If you run a business or work in a business (or simply know someone who does), or are involved in a community group that intends to maintain some sort of operating after Thursday, you can give us the details here – http://bit.ly/BVLockdownSupplement.

It’s a simple form. Entirely FREE of course – this is not a money-making exercise; it’s just us doing our small part to help out where we can.

THE CLASSIFIEDS

CLASSIFIEDS

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Whistles Cleaning. Reliable, experienced, domestic cleaner.

Sherborne and surrounding areas. DBS checked. References.

Call Jilly on 07980 560199. whistlescleaning.co.uk I arrive with a smile!

FRESH AND SHINING DOMESTIC HELP. Cleaning services offered. Thorough and hard-working Polish lady.

Please ring 01258 860136.

To book a classified ad, email Courtenay on advertising@theblackmorevale.co.uk or do it online here.

SPORT

Local Archery Club Celebrates its Golden Anniversary In August this year Ballands Bowmen Archery Club celebrated their 50th anniversary. There were

Ballands members at a National Field Archery championship pre-covid

has remained, an extremely successful club, and over the years several of its members have represented Great Britain in both European and world field archery tournaments.

plans to mark this milestone with several special events, but sadly Covid-19 meant they have not been able to go ahead yet.

Although people typically think of archery as coloured round targets in a line on a flat field, there are a number of different types of competition, and The club was founded on 11th Ballands members specialise in August 1970 at Ballands House in field archery.

Penselwood, home of Major and Here, a course of targets is set Mrs Archer. A number of people out over natural terrain, which from the village were present could be woodland, open the original aim was to establish ground, up and down slopes or an archery activity for local across water. The targets can be people, particularly youngsters. roundels or pictures. Archers, usually in groups of four, work Major Archer had archery their way around the course experience and also land which until they have shot each target, could be used for a range. which often takes a full day.

Ballands Bowmen became, and Mid-October, the Sturminster & Hinton AA held a Winter Points match on the river at Colber.

fish the match and making the journey worthwhile with a thirdposition net of 9lb 5ozs. Steve had a nice bream of exactly 5lbs A good turn-out of 30 anglers (pic attached) to boost his total enjoyed a close-run competition weight. in good conditions with all Apart from the 'frame' positions competitors catching a lot of the section winners were: Glyn small fish.

Marples with 5lb 15ozs, Ben Nick Collins had a nice bream of Dukes with 7lb 14ozs, Ady around 5lbs to add to a lot of Damon with 7lb 14ozs, Bill small roach and perch for a Hanson with 7lb, Jeff sibley with winning weight of 11lbs 6ozs.

5lb 10ozs and Simon Dennis 7lb England international Des Shipp 4ozs. had the best net of small fish - no The previous Sunday bonus bream here - for a weight S&HAA held their first Pike of 9lbs 14ozs and the runner's up Match of the season and a good position and Steve Martin, number of pike were weighed in. coming down from Ringwood to Bob Hall had 6 pike for a total of

Ballands Bowmen are fortunate to have access to some outdoor practice facilities and once lockdown was eased, they were able to pick up their bows once again, whilst adhering to the guidelines.

However the club members are missing the competitions - local, national and international - as well as seeing friends from other archery clubs all over the country. Field archery is a very friendly and sociable activity enjoyed by all ages.

The club looks forward to a time when they can properly celebrate Ballands Bowmen’s 50th. It may be late but it will be some party!

33lb 11ozs. Lee Thompson had 8 fish for 30lb 8ozs, Martin Colohan had 2 pike for 20lb 1ozs and the biggest fish of the day was an 11lb 6ozs pike caught by Bob Hall.

All now looking forward to a good Winter season when the river normally reaches prime condition.

SPORT

FOOTBALL

Barbarians P Hazelbury Hornets P, Bruton United Colts P Wincanton United P. forward which found Dylan Olford Dorset Sunday Challenge Cup: who emphatically lobbed the Sturminster Rovers 1 Famous Old Rovers keeper with a fine finish. Spa 3, Team Gryphon (2)4 Rovers took control of the tie & Bradford Abbas (2)2 AET, TGR 0 were reward through a Neil AFC Gloucester 3, Wyke A tight match between Comets & Sweatman’s shot was spilled and Smugglers 2 AFC Blandford Abbas saw Alfie Collings use his George Coleman latched onto it United 3. strength to fight his way through with a fine finish & then Billy the Abbas defence & power a shot Bright put a through ball to Will FIXTURES, Sunday, through the keepers legs to give Guppy to seal the win.

Comets the opening goal. They Kellaway BS Division 1: Bradford then doubled their lead late in the Barbarians bounced back from Abbas v Donhead Barbarians, first half through a Jordan Lynk last weekend’s defeat with a Bruton United Colts v Sturminster free kick. Abbas scored a penalty dominant performance over TGR. Rovers, Team Gryphon v South thanks to Justin Bingham just They opened the scoring after an Cheriton, TGR v AFC Blandford before half time to narrow the inviting free kick from Ryan Down United, Wincanton United v difference. The second half saw was met by Shaun Ryder. Their Hazelbury Hornets. the Abbas came out the stronger advantage was increased further which saw Brady Harcom equalise when Dale Hofmann scored a first BVFL during Lockdown: through a headed goal from a half hattrick cementing their corner. The match was settled late position before half time. TGR As expected, the Dorset FA in the second half when Harry started the second half the better have confirm the suspension Lucas ran on to a through ball to of the two, scoring a goal but of ‘non-elite football’ until at slot the ball past the Abbas keeper when being awarded a penalty, least Wednesday 2nd to give the Comets a 3-2 win. they were unable to convert December in line with the thanks to Alfie Sheldon in the government guidelines.

A local derby between Hornets & Barbarian’s goal. This awoke Full statement from Rovers started as a cagey affair Barbarians & they pressed to see Dorset FA here. with neither side being very the match out with three more decisive in front of goal. The first goals from Will Clark, Louis Jones goal of the match came when Will & Dale Hofmann.

Guppy put in a cross heading towards the goal which the Hornets keeper helped into the net. Not long after, Guppy was then fouled in the area & took the resulting penalty but tried a panenka which didn’t fool their keeper. The second half saw Sam Stockley rolling back the years and latched on to a ball from Will Guppy to put Rovers 2-0 up.

BLACKMORE VALE FOOTBALL LEAGUE

The third goal came from a penalty where Ben Cowley was fouled in the box and took his penalty a bit more seriously than the previous. Hornets came back at Rovers with their keeper sending a long ball

RESULTS, Sunday, Kellaway BS Division 1: Donhead

SPORT

Tisbury United would like to say a massive thank you to Tony Howell of Plumbase in Gillingham Plumbase have generously supplied the 1st team with a new kit this season. Dan Carter of Tisbury United said 'we can’t thank them enough - local clubs like ours can not survive with out

the help from local businesses.'

Tisbury United currently play their football in the Dorset Senior League and have made an unbeaten start to the season.

The photo was taken last

weekend before their home win against Beaminster. Goals coming from Lee Hale and Joeleon Denyer.

Sherborne Golf club junior wins Dame Laura Davies Trophy The Dame Laura Davies Trophy is a scratch knock-out matchplay competition run by Dorset Ladies County Golf Association (DLCGA) and is in its second year.

It is open to all girls aged 17 and under as of 1st January 2020 with a CONGU handicap of 11-21.

Elizabeth Ashford (Sherborne GC), played her first round at Ferndown on the Alliss course in July and the second round at Sherborne in August.

The final was held at Broadstone golf club on Sunday 27 September where Elizabeth had the opportunity to defend her trophy from 2019.

It was a sunny afternoon, but there was a strong wind making for a challenging round. The first hole resulted in a half playing long into the wind, Elizabeth was unlucky not to chip in from just off the back of the green on the second but it was good enough to take the early lead.

The next 2 holes were halved but with Elizabeth hitting the middle of the green on the par 3 fifth a two-putt par was enough to go 2 up.

saw Elizabeth extend her lead to 5 however her opponent was fighting hard and got herself back into the match by winning the next 2 holes.

The good play continued and a birdie on the eighth enabled Elizabeth to extend her lead to 4.

The blustery fourteenth was halved but Elizabeth continued her good par 3 play with another par winning the hole and match on the fifteenth. Elizabeth was able to retain her trophy from 2019 with a final match score 4 and 3.

Sharron McVie

Her opponent, with a strong drive down the ninth, pulled a hole back going into the back nine 3 down. Pars on the tricky narrow tenth and par 3 eleventh

FOOTBALL

SPORT

Golfers raise £1,645 for the Lifeboats The Salisbury, Wilton and District branch of the RNLI held a very successful Charity Golf Tournament at High Post Golf Club at the beginning of October.

19 Teams, of four players each, enjoyed a competitive and fun great to see so many golfers out competition over the day. The enjoying themselves and early starters had the best There was strong competition in supporting the work of the “Bundu Bashers” – The winning men’s team weather with plenty of sun and a the team prizes with first place Lifeguards and Lifeboat Crews light wind. going to “The Bundu Bashers” around our coast. team captain Ian McGill with Ray With so many more people From lunchtime the wind speed Holmes, John Pursell and Brian holidaying in the UK it has been a increased and the rain moved in Higgins. Second prize went to “The busy time for the RNLI and they but the afternoon’s damp Farmers” - Nick Helyer, Wayne have been doing such fantastic conditions did not spoil the Smith, Oliver Harding Rolls and job this summer. Further details enjoyment. The best individual Richard Oram. The Best Mixed about the charity are available at score of 36 (Stableford) points was Team was “Golden Brew” - Nick & www.rnli.org or if anyone would achieved by Brian Higgins, with Libby Gold, Paul & Sue Devonish. like to help our branch please Nick Gold second on count back. Christopher Gabbey won the contact me at The best Lady Prize went to Penny nearest the pin on the 11th hole. raystedman@btinternet.com”.

Brown.

Ray Stedman continued “It was Branch chairman, Ray Stedman, said “The course was looking magnificent and I am most grateful to all the staff at High Post, both on and off the course, for looking after us so well. I am particularly grateful to the Club manager, Sarah Tucker, for helping us mount the tournament in these difficult times and making sure we were Covid compliant.

The teams were excellent at sticking to tee times which was a great help.

I cannot thank the teams and the Club enough for helping us raise the magnificent sum of £1,645 for the RNLI”.

“Golden Brew” – The winning mixed team

PUZZLES

JIGSAW This month's image is of the piglets on Ram's Hill, Manston. I know we're not the only ones who hope for an empty road so that we can slow down for a peek every time we drive past...

To complete the jigsaw simply click the image and the interactive jigsaw will pop up.

If you wish you can choose a different number of pieces to start with - make it harder or easier, it's up to you!

This is the control panel which appears click the grid to select your number of pieces, click the arrow to shuffle the pieces.

I know we promised - but there was a technicial hitch with the interactive crossword. It was almost a thing of magnificence... but then it wasn't. Next month, yes?

THE BLACKMORE VALE

LEGAL

Using A Resolution Lawyer: We're Here For You. Expert help on common legal issues from the team at Porter Dodson LLP. This week: Help During Relationship Breakdowns.

Karen Watts

Relationship breakdown can be one of the most stressful and emotional experiences you can have. Whatever the reason for your separation, whether you were at fault, or not, the breakdown of a relationship can be devastating.

Your future may suddenly appear very uncertain and out of your control; for many this can be overwhelming.

Everyday life can become disrupted. There may be changes to your routines, responsibilities and how you care for your children. You may face uncertainty with your home or finances, and relationships with extended family members and friends may change.

Exacerbating the already difficult situation, we have the added dimension of the coronavirus pandemic, which has undoubtedly created additional uncertainty and raised the potential for increased conflict.

You do not have to face this alone. Make the right choices for you and your children by choosing a Resolution lawyer to help you through this difficult

time.

Resolution is a group of family lawyers, and other professionals in England and Wales, who promote a constructive and nonconfrontational approach to family matters.

Our Family lawyers are all members of Resolution; we treat everyone with respect and without judgement and we act with integrity and objectivity, encouraging solutions that consider the needs of the whole family, and in particular, the best interests of the children.

As members, we follow a Code of

Practice that promotes an approach to family law that is sensitive, constructive, costeffective and most likely to result in an agreement.

We can help and advise you on all aspects of family law, including separation, divorce, civil partnership breakdowns, finances, children issues or prenuptial agreements.

Please do not feel that you are alone in this difficult time. We are here to help, support and advise you, so do contact us.

Karen Watts, Solicitor

FAMILY FINANCE

Three Top Family Finance Tips As another year rapidly draws to a close, many of us may already be starting to think about what resolutions we can make to improve our financial health in 2021.

And even though we may resolve to improve our finances, it’s knowing where to begin that’s key.

Here’s three top tips tips to help you on your way.

SHOW ME THE MONEY The first step to getting your finances on track is to know where your money is going. But that isn’t always obvious. Tracking your expenses can keep your spending on a parallel track with your income and help you avoid overspending. This goes hand in hand with setting up a budget. You may have a good handle on your monthly bills, but what about your daily expenses? You may be surprised by how much money you spend on smaller items. Review all of your expenses for ways to cut back, and then decide what to do with the extra money. Set specific goals, such as building an emergency savings fund, paying off your credit card bills or increasing your retirement savings.

REDUCING BORROWING Next make a list of all the borrowing you have – including mortgage, personal loans, store cards, credit cards and bank overdrafts. Calculate the amount you owe and remember that you should update this as the year progresses to track your progress. If you cannot reduce your overall borrowing, then you need to ensure you are paying as low an interest rate as possible. This may mean switching credit cards or mortgages, or consolidating various borrowings into one loan.

TAX REALLY MATTERS There are plenty of tax allowances to make use of each financial year – remember this runs from 6 April to 5 April the following year – so it’s worth being aware of which annual allowances you can benefit from. All tax rates quoted in this article are applicable to the current 2020/21 financial year.

One of the most popular ways to save tax is by fully utilising your individual annual Individual Savings

Account (ISA) allowance, which is dividend tax or capital gains tax on the proceeds of any investments you hold within an ISA. In addition, investors have a £2,000 tax-free dividend allowance held outside of an ISA. Basicrate taxpayers pay 7.5% on dividends. Higher-rate taxpayers pay 32.5% on dividends. However, if your dividend income is above this amount, investing in an ISA could give you the benefit of additional taxefficient payments.

If you are a basic-rate taxpayer the Personal Savings Allowance (PSA) permits you to earn up to £1,000 interest on your savings without paying any income tax on it. If you are a higher-rate taxpayer you have a PSA of £500 before you pay tax, while additional-rate taxpayers who earn over £150,000 do not qualify for the PSA. ISAs may remain worthwhile for those additional-rate taxpayers who don’t qualify, or who have a large amount of savings and have used up the PSA.

THE BLACKMORE VALE

Dorset Council unify planning applications online Dorset Council has reached a key point in a project to transform their planning system, pulling together the six former district, borough and county councils planning functions together into one team.

During October the former North Dorset area was the first to be placed entirely online, and all applications are now publicly accessible all in one place.

This is not simply a list of the notices - comments can be entered onto each application online and be seen immediately.

Cllr David Walsh, Dorset Council Portfolio holder for planning, said: “This is a huge achievement for

the council. By bringing all planning services into one team and one system, we can make sure that there is a consistency of approach across Dorset. “But please bear with us, this is a huge task and we will continue to Once you see the application improve our services.� you're inetrested in, simply click the link and you'll be able to look To access the new planning at the entire application, the system for North Dorset, simply planing history of the address, click the image below to go direct the supporting documents and to Dorset Council's planing page. any comments.

Choose your region of the county, accept the terms which appear, and then you can search by specific application number, or you can enter an address. But the address does not need to be specific; you can search simply by town or village name, or even enter a partial postcode such as DT11.

'The Blackmore Vale' is published by Bluebean Publishing Ltd in Dorset, UK.