The New Blackmore Vale

Blackmore Vale

The new A new dawn for your favourite news magazine

So, here it is! The moment you’ve all been waiting for –the day the New Blackmore Vale arrives in your shops. We are a small team of BVM enthusiasts, who want to recreate the magic of that time-honoured A4 news magazine you all loved. We have to start small, so the magazine will be a little slimmer to begin with, and we are publishing fortnightly for now. We are also using a little more colour – after all, 2020 has been grey enough! With the right support from our readers we will go weekly in no time… and our

By Miranda Robertson Editor newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

pages will fill up with all the news and views we’re told you miss so much.

Yes, there is an online BVM, which has started up to cover this patch of north Dorset loveliness. We believe there is room for both, as we will have very different offerings. What we are trying to do is produce the product that people have missed.

The old printers are printing our magazine, the old distributor is scurrying around

all the places the old BVM used to be picked up. We have professional journalists on board, to cover the important stories of the area – including some familiar names. We also have some fabulous local columnists, old and new, to cover the topics the old BVM did so well.

We hope you love it. Now it’s over to you. Send us your news, your letters and your thoughts about how well we’re doing. Is there a feature you particularly want us to revive? How was your lockdown? Would your shop

like to stock some of our magazines?

Here are some useful contacts if you’d like to get in touch.

For news and features, email newsdesk@blackmorevale.net or call 01963 400186. It’s letters@blackmorevale.net for letters for publication.

To advertise, it’s adverts@blackmorevale.net, or you can call 01963 400186 for classifieds or 07876 563683 for display ads. For enquiries about stocking our free magazine, email Lorraine Drake at lorraine_drake@icloud.com or call 07850 52993.

Why I decided to relaunch the BVM

Let me tell you a short story about the new Blackmore Vale Magazine.

I was at a small socially distanced gathering on September 1 and the subject of discussion moved to the the loss of the beloved Blackmore Vale Magazine. Someone should start it up again, was the general opinion.

Why are you looking at me?, I said. Because you could do it, they said.

Now I am known by some people and especially members of my family, for wanting to try to start or invest in different businesses. The cries of no no no, are what I normally hear and I would retreat to my desk. But this was different – I kept hearing words of support. So, I know nothing about the newspaper business, but it seemed worth a shot. Having sold the idea to

By Lloyd Armishaw Publisher

myself, it was decided that we should go – and as soon as possible, So a date of September 25 was chosen as launch date, printing on the 24th, mainly because it was two of our family’s birthdays on that date rather than considering if we could produce a new newspaper ready for print in 20 days with no staff or knowledge...

MUCH MISSED: The old magazine

So my wife and I hit the phones, armed with a 2017 edition of the BVM, found in the cellar. Your response was phenomenal – you were all so

nice, so positive about the return of a paper edition. It is what people want. So we went through our staff at all our companies to see if anyone knew anything or anyone. Of course the most fortunate find was Miranda, who had worked in the sector in many roles, for many years. Miranda knows lots of people and within a week Debi had joined us full-time on sales. So our biggest thanks are to them, but also thanks to the many others who have given useful input. Of course my

biggest thanks goes to my wonderful wife, Ruth, for taking on a major role. We had accepted that in this era, we would have to spend money to make it happen and that will be the case for some considerable time. But it’s a local institution: most people want it and we want to give something back. It will help enormously if people support it with advertising, and using our advertisers’ services. This first issue may not be all the things you want, but tell us what extras you do want. Give us your news, use it as a community service. So it’s now up to you – if you want a magazine, please support the businesses which have helped finance this first issue by buying advertising space. Most importantly, please enjoy this first edition and help us make our next issue in two weeks’ time even bigger and better.

We asked – and you delivered! Here are some of the entries for our front page picture competition on Facebook

By Wriggle Valley Brewery

By George Final from Sturminster Newton

By Wriggle Valley Brewery

By Steve Tarrant of Sturminster Newton

By Wriggle Valley Brewery

By Cazi Robins of Sherborne

By David Thompson of Sherborne

By Steph

By Jon Stride

White of Sturminster

Newton

Help still on offer after lockdown eased

A Shaftesbury support group serving vulnerable residents shielding during the peak of the pandemic are continuing to offer assistance.

More than 50 volunteers are still registered with the Shaftesbury Community Support Group. These volunteers offer all manner of help and support to those people in the town and the surrounding area who may not have family or friends nearby.

From shopping for essential items, picking up prescriptions or just being at the end of a phone for a friendly chat, these volunteers are working to help those who are most in need in the community.

By Kate Smith

At the height of the pandemic, residents with certain medical conditions were told by the government to shield.

However, as restrictions were eased, the advice to shield was paused.

A spokesman for the support group said: “Now the initial epidemic has passed the critical stage, we recognise that many people who we have been helping are now venturing out to do their shopping and collect prescriptions.

“We recognise that there are still vulnerable people or those self-isolating who may

Runners’ virtual marathon

have no friends, family or neighbours, who still need our support.

“We primarily cover Shaftesbury town – however we also can outreach to the surrounding area where required.”

l Shopping – volunteers will shop for essential items and deliver the shopping to your front door.

l Prescriptions – the support team work with the NHS to deliver urgent medication.

l Phone Support – volunteers work with specific individuals for a friendly chat. Government advice if transmission of Covid-19 increases is as follows:

You could be advised to shield again if the situation changes and there is an increase in the transmission of Covid-19 in the community.

Your name will be kept securely on the shielded patient list by NHS Digital and the government will write to you if the advice changes. Any national changes will be reflected in this guidance. In the event of a local lockdown, please visit dorsetcouncil.gov.uk for more information.

If you’re clinically extremely vulnerable, you are advised not to enter any area where shielding advice is in place.

Prizes for poetic locals

POETS and writers have just a few days to submit their stories and poems to Blandford Rotary Club, which is running its annual Short Story and Poetry competition. with more than £500 in cash prizes and trophies up for grabs. The competition is split into four categories:

1st Prize £50

2nd Prize £25

3rd Prize £10

n Section C – Under 18 Fiction: up to 1,000 words, £2.50 per entry.

1st Prize £100

2nd Prize £25

3rd Prize £10

Runners from Runblandford running club will be taking part in the ‘Virtual London Marathon’ on October 4. Charity runners Kerrie, Paula, Emma and Jo were all due to run the famous London course in April this year for charity.

Covid-19 struck, and the event was postponed until October. However, the event was cancelled for a second time, so organisers have asked runners to run their 26.2 miles their own way. The ladies, along with Runblandford friends for support, will be setting off from Sandbanks at 8am, making their way through

Sturminster Marshall, Poole Park, Upton, Lytchett, Spetisbury and back to Blandford, finishing over the Blue bridge near Morrison’s car park.

You can sponsor the runners at the following links:

uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ KerrieKempster1

(fundraising for Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation)

justgiving.com/Paula-Ford5

(Disability Snowsport UK)

uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ JoannaYilmaz (Shelter)

uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ Emma-Storey3

(Hertfordshire Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre)

n Section A – Open Fiction: up to 1,750 words, £4 per entry.

1st Prize £200 and Blandford Forum Town Council Mayor’s Cup

2nd Prize £50

3rd Prize £10

n Section B – Flash Fiction: up to 250 words, £3 per entry.

n Section D Poetry: up to 40 lines, £2.50 per entry (or three entries for £5).

1st Prize £50 and Lesley Shand Cup for Poetry

2nd Prize £20

3rd Prize £10

Entries will be accepted until September 30 at 23:59. For more information and entry rules, visit www.tinyurl.com/ y2m4bsx5

Take your tractor for a long charity run

A tractor run is being held this Sunday, September 27, in aid of the Somerset and Dorset Air Ambulance. Tractor drivers are asked to meet at Yetminster Sports Club for 10am and will be setting off at 11.15am. The run costs £10 per person

to include a tea or coffee and a bacon or sausage roll. The run will be 25-30 miles around the magnificent Dorset countryside, with a stop halfway at the Great Field in Poundbury. Tractors will return to the sports club at 3.30pm where

the bar will be open from 3pm. Those not coming on the road run are welcome to come along with their vehicles free of charge from 3.30pm. There will be a BBQ from 4pm until late, and live music from 5pm-8pm with singer

and guitarist Jordan Lindsay. Steam vehicles, military and classic cars, motorcycles and lorries are welcome.

Organisers would appreciate an idea of numbers for food in the morning - please contact Matthew Sawkins on 07535 774281.

CHURCHES across Dorset

welcomed cyclists and horse riders in the annual Ride + Stride event on September 12, which raises funds for local churches and the Historic Churches Trust.

Kington Magna villagers

John Floyd, on his horse Oscar, and Roger Gosney, on his bike, raised more than £500 – Roger cycled 59 miles to visit 27 churches, and John rode to 10 churches. Kington Magna church itself welcomed 14 fundraisers, including one cyclist from Southampton. At Milton on Stour, villagers walked and cycled the four miles to Silton church before returning for tea at St Simon & St Jude church.

Great strides

Food bank is here to help

BLANDFORD Food Bank is one of five food banks in Dorset run by Faithworks, in partnership with local churches.

The food bank is delivering food parcels only in the Blandford area during the coronavirus pandemic. You can obtain a voucher for a food parcel from

n Dorset Council – 01258 454111

n Sovereign Housing Association – 0300 5000926

n Blandford Children’s Centre – 01258 480147

n The Mental Health Team, Blandford Hospital – 01258 450610.

Plans backed for road to new homes

PLANS for the main street which will lead to the 1,800 houses planned in the Gillingham southern extension were approved by Dorset planners on September 15, when members of Dorset Council’s Northern Planning Committee were unanimous in supporting the 1.3km road between the B3092 and B3081.

The detailed application was made by the council itself, and excluded the connection to the B3081 Shaftesbury Road, where the land is in separate ownership and from where the first phase of development is expected to

By Nicci Brown

take place, but members were told by highway engineer Steve Savage that he was very confident that the connection would be made, and there would be a separate application to include traffic signals to the south of the existing Park Farm roundabout.

The construction of the street has funding from Homes England (HIF) which is time limited with a deadline of March 2022 for the infrastructure to be completed. Its provision could potentially speed up housing delivery on the Gillingham strategic site

allocation which is expected to bring significant economic and social benefits. Detailed plans have already been approved for 90 homes, and outline applications for a total of 1,595 have been recommended for approval. The tree-lined street corridor will be wide enough to include a shared use foot/cycleway on both sides of the carriageway, and will vary in character from the rural part of the development to the more urban.

Gillingham councillor David Walsh welcomed the application, saying: “I have been involved in the

Gillingham southern extension for eight years, developing the master plan framework, and I am still getting residents asking, ‘When is it going to happen?’ Please can we get on and deliver it for them.”

After querying only some of the detail, his fellow Gillingham councillors Val Pothecary and Belinda Ridout were equally supportive, Councillor Ridout saying:

“Gillingham is very fortunate to have a major amount of critical infrastructure delivered at the outset, and this has gone through vigorous consultation.”

Homes backed despite objections

CONCERNS that some of the houses were too close to existing properties failed to prevent planners approving the detail of a development of 60 affordable homes on land off Thornhill Road, south of Stalbridge.

Developers Sovereign had already adjusted the dwelling facing Bibbern Row and Kingsmead in response to residents’ objections, and Dorset Council’s Northern Planning Committee was told they were not prepared to

make further amendments.

Local councillor Graham Carr Jones, who is the council’s portfolio holder for housing, said he was still disappointed with the design layout, and that discussion around providing an accessible bungalow had halted when Sovereign said they would need a three-figure sum to do it.

“We need to be far more robust with our registered social landlords and developers, and must insist on accessible single-storey

properties,” he said. He also asked who was going to be responsible for maintenance of trees and lighting within the development. The lights are due to be turned off in the early hours to preserve dark skies in the village. He was told by case officer Robert Lennis that there would be a management company for the lights, and the trees would be monitored in the first instance by Dorset Council. Councillor Carol

Jones asked if there was anything they could do to ensure a minimal maintenance standard, which she said was “sometimes quite shameful by Sovereign”.

Committee chairman Councillor Sherry Jespersen said it was “not very satisfactory” that the planning authority would have to ensure compliance, and commented that they had listened to and understood the concerns of residents.

Carnival axed and events under threat

By Kate Smith

It’s not just Christmas that The Grinch has stolen from Gillingham this year – the coronavirus pandemic has left the town without its annual colourful cavalcade this autumn.

Gillingham Carnival was due to be held on October 10. However now only one of its traditional events will be held – the Window Spotting Competition.

Several other events are also under threat, with the Christmas Festive Lighting event under review along with the annual Remembrance Parade in November.

The Gillingham Carnival website states: “Due to the ongoing threat of coronavirus the Carnival Committee has taken the difficult decision to cancel this year’s Carnival Processions, which were due to take place on Saturday 10th October.

“The committee believe this to be the right decision for the safety of carnival entrants and public alike. Large gatherings are unlikely to be safe to hold for the foreseeable future although we hope to be able

to hold some of our smaller Carnival Week Events later in the year. However, this will be dependent on government guidance at the time.” With the support of Gillingham Town businesses, the carnival committee is running the 2020 Window Spotting Competition from Sunday, October 4 until Sunday, October 11.

In a change to previous years, entry will be free, although donations will be gratefully received.

Entry forms will be available from next Friday, October 2 at Cullingford Carpets or at gillinghamcarnival.org.uk. Oddities will appear in window displays from Sunday, October 4.

Entries to be returned to Cullingford Carpets by Thursday, October 15.

Cash Prizes: 1st £25 ~ 2nd £15 ~ 3rd £10

Kindly sponsored by Cullingford Carpets. Meanwhile, doubts remain over the Christmas festive lighting event planned for Decembet 4 which boasts a magical parade through the town, a grotto and community merrymaking.. Gillingham town councillors were told by mayor Barry Von Clemens the event is under review.

If the event did go ahead it would be a scaled-down version compared with previous years, with no road closure, parade or grotto.

The mayor told Gillingham Town Council’s general purpose committee that talks were currently taking place with Dorset Council’s Safety Advisory Group (SAG). The annual Remembrance Day parade in November is also under review.

Councillor Roger Weeks, who is also president of Gillingham Royal British Legion, cast his doubts over the likelihood of the annual parade taking place. However, he told the same meeting that he did not wish for Remembrance to go “unmarked”.

n Those Were the Dayssee our feature on the history of Gillingham Carnival on page 31.

Northern area councillors support hospital multi-storey car park plans

PLANNERS have given the green light to a multi-storey car park at Dorset County Hospital, which could allow a multi-million pound extension to health facilities on the hospital campus to go ahead.

A planning application submitted in October last year by Dorset County Hospital

NHS Foundation Trust was recommended for refusal by Dorset Council planning officers on the grounds of the impact of the seven-storey building on the county town’s heritage and landscape character.

But after a two-and-a-halfhour presentation and debate, members of the Northern

By Nicci Brown

Planning Committee agreed that the social and economic benefit far outweighed what was described as ‘less than substantial harm’ to the heritage setting.

The hospital is outside the Dorchester Conservation area, but key concerns included the impact on the Grade II listed heritage buildings of Damers Hospital, Dorchester West Railway Station and the Dorchester Military Museum, as well as on historic sites such as Maiden Castle and viewpoints over the town. Neighbouring residents also objected to the impact on

their amenity during construction and operation of the car park, to be sited to the south of the main hospital entrance road off Williams Avenue near the hospital children’s centre. But members of the public supporting the proposal far outnumbered those opposing it, and the committee was told that not only would be the car park result in 120 more parking spaces, but it would also make possible an expansion of A&E and intensive care facilities at the hospital with a £62.5 million investment by central government which depended on the development of areas currently used for parking.

The application was supported by three Dorset MPs, including MP for North Dorset Simon Hoare. He said the lack of rural public transport means more car use by those from his constituency needing to reach the hospital, and he urged members not to shut the door on the government’s gift horse to improve health provision in the county.

Chris Loder, MP for West Dorset, supports plans to build the car park. In a letter to the planning committee, said: “In the middle of a global pandemic, having just experienced the worst national health crisis in living memory, the local NHS needs our support more than ever.”

£30k lottery film grant

A film archive charity has scooped £30,000 of lottery funding to expand on its community-based work. Rural media charity Windrose, known for its film archive of Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire life, had to put its current projects on hold because of Covid-19.

“It left very little to cover overheads or keep the team together,’ director Trevor Bailey said. “Then the National Lottery paused all its normal grant giving and went to support charities through the worst of the crisis.” The grant will fund a range of work, including ensuring the film archive continues to be looked after and used. Another new project is a partnership with Age UK North, West & South Dorset funded by a £5,000 grant from Dorset Community Foundation.

Ride and Stride raises money for churches

Churchgoers pedalled and paced off on a socially distanced ride and stride to raise cash for buildings. The annual event at Milton on Stour Church, brought a few new challenges with Covid-19 regulations, but the weather was good, and

“We will be contacting and interviewing older people isolated at home, by telephone or Zoom, to record their memories and life stories,” Mr Bailey said. ‘The recordings

the company was great, say organisers. Family and friend units were sent off in small groups of no more than six on the four-mile (or thereabouts) round trip to Silton Church. Spirts were high as the sun shone, the

will then be shared.” And Arts Council funding of £14,016 is supporting a project combining old films and live singing for groups, assisted by Alzheimer’s

children chattered and the locals even came to greet the riders and striders along the way: Back at Milton, St Simon & St Jude church had tables laid outside, ready for each family unit to sit and enjoy a lovely afternoon tea.

Support Wiltshire. Windrose was set up in 1984 and uses visual and audio media for educational, archival and creative work in rural communities in Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire.

Pack Monday called off due to covid

Townsfolk have reacted with sadness, yet understanding after one of the biggest annual Sherborne events was called off.

Pack Monday was due to be held on October 12, with scores of stalls and traders set to descend on the town.

Pack Monday is one of the UK’s oldest fairs and thousands of people pour in to enjoy the event.

But this year organisers say they have had to make the “difficult decision” to scrap their plans.

They said: “With the increase in national positive cases and increasing local lockdowns, combined with ever changing government guidelines, hosting the event this year without adding any adverse risks to the local population was not possible despite the best efforts of all involved.”

Pack Monday Fair traces its origin back as far as 1790 and

By Miranda Robertson

is traditionally held on the first Monday after October 10. The organisers added: “The event pulls in traders and visitors from all over the country and this was one of the main considerations leading to the cancellation.” They had tried to overcome the obstacles posed by Covid19, including spacing the stalls out, but ultimately decided the difficulties would affect the quality of the event too much.

When they announced the cancellation on social media the public were quick to show their support.

Della Way said: “With visitors and traders coming from across the country, it is the correct decision. I look forward to Pack Monday 2021, when hopefully life is near normal again.”

Chris Ratman said: “Sorry to

hear that, such a great event. A sad but right decision.”

And Debbie Karabina said: “Thanks for the update and for doing your best to keep The Town safe (in) such strange/adverse conditions. Looking forward to 2021 and especially the bands!” Others described it as a ‘difficult’ decision, but the right one. Next year’s Pack Monday event will be held on October 11.

New shop opens

A new shop is coming to Blandford on Monday, October 5.

Pier Paper will open at 3 Barnack Walk, stocking premium envelope, paper, craft and card products. Pier Paper Co offer a huge range of coloured greeting card envelopes in popular sizes including C5, C6, C7,

DL & Squares. Prices start at 5p per envelope.

Eyes down

A community bingo night is to be held at The Grove Arms in Ludwell on Sunday, October 18, 7.30pm-10pm. Numbers are restricted, so please book a spot early via the pub’s Facebook page. £6 for 6 books plus 1 special Raffle £1 per strip (charity to be confirmed)

Maximum table size is six.

We must keep all our schools open

It’s nice to see the BVM back!

If the politicians’ maxim is true, that all politics is local then certainly it is important that our news is too.

I’m delighted to have been asked to write a column in this ‘first edition’ and I wish all working on it, every success in the future. Many will be familiar with the saying that there are only two things guaranteed in life – death and taxes. We like certainty in our lives. The rhythm of the changing seasons, the drum beat of routine, the sowing and gathering of the crops all provide hooks to measure the passing of time.

This year has seen all of that upended and the tranquil beat has become a discordant cacophony as Covid-19 has taken hold.

The vagaries of this virus are

still with us. As I write it feels as if we are on the cusp of the imminent resurrection of restrictions which we had all hoped not to have to see. I know from my postbag that there’s a split in opinion. Some want a total lockdown, a sort of cryogenic societal freezing, until the all clear

has been sounded. Others fear that civil liberties are being infringed and we should just all take our chances, that The State has become too big and too bossy. I subscribe to neither. I would urge that we simply follow the evidence, the R rate and NHS capacity and tailor our national response accordingly. That, of course, adds to the uncertainty but when we are fighting an invisible enemy that should not come as a surprise. I will support, as I have throughout, whatever means necessary to contain and defeat Covid-19 until a verifiable vaccine is available. Of one thing however I am certain: our schools must remain open. With three children in local schools I know how much they missed school and how much they are delighted to be

back (not so much when the alarm goes off). I know too from discussions with teachers that they can tell those pupils who did learn well at home and those who found it difficult, the latter often shaped by poor access to IT, patchy broadband speeds, parents uneasy with the learning environment or pupils who need the impetus of fellow students to drive them on. Our teachers and school support staff have worked like Trojans to get our schools reopened. Social mobility and inclusion are two of the keys forged by education.

North Dorset cannot afford to slip backwards on either. I want to thank all of our schools for re-opening and pledge to do all I can to support them. Our young people will never forgive us if we do not.

So glad to see the Blackmore Vale back

It is personally significant for me to be writing in this inaugural edition of the ‘new’ Blackmore Vale Magazine. I was born at Sherborne’s Yeatman Hospital in 1981 and raised on the family farm in the heart of the Blackmore Vale, where I am a fourth generation farmer’s son. The previous ‘Blackmore Vale’ as we knew it, was originally published in 1978, and was therefore always part of my life – which is why I was extremely sorry to see it stop. I wish editor Miranda Robertson and her publishing team at the new Blackmore Vale Magazine every success and I hope this will be my first column of many; written not only as the MP for West Dorset but also as somebody

with a life-long connection with the Blackmore Vale. Within our market towns and villages of the Vale you’ll find our parish churches,

which are so important to the areas they serve, no moreso than now. I recently took part in the annual sponsored Ride and Stride for Churches, organised by the Dorset Historic Churches Trust. As a former Parochial Church Council (PCC) member, I know how expensive repairs to our historic church buildings can be; so it was a pleasure to lend my support, cycling from Sherborne Abbey to surrounding parish churches.

I’m grateful to the many local groups and initiatives which, in recent months, have made a real difference to others. Dorset Carers’ Hub, which supports unpaid carers and their families, recently received a grant of £1,500

after I nominated them for the Western Power Distribution ‘In This Together –Community Matters Fund’ which I’m pleased has enabled projects such as counselling and free filtered facemasks for carers. For my latest constituency and Westminster news updates, including reports on the Internal Market Bill and my upcoming Private Members’ Bill on Animal Welfare, please visit my website at: www.chrisloder.co.uk. If you need to contact me on a personal issue, as your constituency MP, you are very welcome to write to me directly to Chris Loder MP, House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA.

MP for North Dorset Simon Hoare

MP for West Dorset

Chris Loder

AGM called off

The Annual General Meeting for the Friends of Blandford Community Hospital due to be held on September 30 has been cancelled. Details for the next meeting will be released in due course.

Psychic evening

An evening of mediumship will be held at Sherborne West End Social Club on September 29 starting at 7.30pm and lasting two hours. Book online at psychicmediumnikkikitt.co.uk

Talk to Cruse on a webchat service

The UK’s largest bereavement charity, Cruse Bereavement Care, has received a financial boost from the Department of Health and Social Care to help it respond to an increase in demand for its services due to the Covid-19 pandemic. There has been a surge in calls throughout Dorset and Wiltshire since the lockdown in March. The charity was awarded funding by the Government in June to provide additional support through its existing National Helpline to bereaved people affected by the pandemic.

The funding has also allowed the charity to develop its existing infrastructure, including increasing the existing Helpline team through new recruitment, reallocation of staff and enrolment of existing, locally based Cruse Bereavement Volunteers, extending the opening hours of its Helpline and creating a new webchat service.

The training of the new volunteers has also allowed the charity to prepare if there is a second wave of the virus and the subsequent uptake in demand for its services in the coming winter months.

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Tractors in harvest rush ‘will kill someone’ warns council chief

A parish council leader has warned ‘someone will be killed’ by tractors driving fast down narrow lanes during harvest. David Redwood, chairman of Fifehead Magdalen council, claims that tractors are getting larger year on year, and that the frequency of vehicles increases as fast. “There has been a constant stream of large tractors hauling massive trailers of silage through our narrow lanes and beyond,” he says.

“Someone is going to be killed or injured unless these drivers, many of whom are using mobiles, are brought to task.” He has complained to police and Dorset Council, attaching photos of what he says is road damage caused by overloaded trailers. “We realise we live in a rural area and farmers need to make a living but reckless speed and a lack of

By Steve Keenan newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

consideration is endangering pedestrians and causing damage to verges and private property.

“There is a reason why our lanes are crumbling at the edges and uneven and that is because vehicles – not just farm vehicles –are ever larger, and passing facing traffic often necessitates almost driving in the ditch.

“However, a trailer with ten tonnes of silage on board is going to do immense damage. My concern is about safety and where a trailer nearly takes the porch off a cottage or, as is the case recently, flips onto its side spilling its cargo. There is clearly a lack of hazard recognition and risk management.

“On the main thoroughfare

through Fifehead there are no pavements, yet there are pedestrians, dogs, and horses. Can the farm vehicles stop in good time? I think not especially if the driver has a phone clamped to their ear.”

His outburstt has provoked a response from the farming community. Christina Trim of Stour Cross Farm, close to Fifehead, said: “We are not loony farmers - we are normal business people trying to seize the opportunity to harvest our crop for our livestock during the good weather. You’ll not stop farmers from using contractors to harvest the food for their livestock to put food on your table.”

But when shared on community forum nextdoor.co.uk, there were messages of support for both points of view. Bob Shirley, also of Fifehead, said: “This is not

about people making a living, it’s about people sharing road space in a responsible manner. This isn’t about car drivers and tractors, it’s about a far more onesided competition - pedestrians versus tractors.

Frank Rutter, of Stour Provost, agreed that larger loads and higher speeds take a toll on roads. But he added: “Farms are increasing in size and amalgamating due to constant pressure on food prices etc so the distances driven are increasing. “There is constant pressure on time. Contractor drivers are probably paid by the hour but pressure still applies to get the job done. Granted they can be intimidating and inconsiderate at times, especially when shuttling between harvester and clamp which can lead to a bit of a racetrack mentality.”

Health & Wellbeing

AYURVEDA is a Sanskrit word meaning ‘science of life’. Originating in India 5,000 years ago, it is a natural approach to achieving and maintaining health in the mind, body and spirit.

Ayurveda says we are made up of five great elements –space, air, fire, water and earth. The elements combine to form doshas, which determine how we maintain balance. Ayurvedas believe, like many eastern cultures, that we have energy lines and energy centres and to find and keep optimal heath we must keep the energy flowing. An important aspect of Ayurveda is self care. One of the most important aspects of self care is self massage. While

the idea of self massage perhaps doesn’t have the same appeal as receiving a massage from someone else, why not give a little love to those feet we often cram into shoes, spend most of the day standing on and pay little attention to unless they start to ache in protest? And ditto the rest of the body! Organic, cold pressed sesame oil is a good one to start with. If possible warm the oil before use. This not only feels amazing but it helps the oil be absorbed into the skin, having a wonderfully nourishing effect. This can be

done by placing the oil in a dish, then the dish in hot water. Starting with your right foot massage with the warm oil. Have your full focus on your foot, rather than letting your mind drift to your shopping list! Gently massage with small, circular movements. Continue the focus and movements along the right leg, up to your thigh. Change to long, sweeping strokes.

Once again, start at your toes, sweep the feet three times. Move to your lower legs, again three times. Then knees to the thighs three times. Go back at the toes again and sweep all the way to the

with Finola Brennan

thigh, again three times. Continue with these steps, working up and along your right front and back body, arm and hand. Then work down the left side body, arm, hand and leg in the same way. Take the same techniques, small circular movements followed by longer sweeping ones to your face, neck and head. Taking the time to make this a weekly routine, will leave your body, mind and spirit feeling nourished and revitalised.

Finola Brennan, Yoga Instructor and Ayurvedic Therapist The

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Ayurveda and self massage

A mother of two from Motcombe whose baby son developed painful eczema has come up with a new moisturiser – using only natural ingredients.

Victoria Brunton’s son’s painful skin condition started in 2016, when he was five months old.

She said: “It was horrific – he was covered head to toe in eczema. Even his cheeks were cracked.”

Victoria’s sister Clare started producing a range of eco-

By Miranda Robertson

friendly soaps using sheep’s milk from Victoria’s farm after suffering from eczema herself. Clare started making her own soap recipes so she was confident that all the ingredients were skin friendly and aided skin healing, eventually marketing the soaps under the brand name Simply Ewe.

They immediately started to see a difference in Victoria’s son’s skin, and inspired by Clare’s soap, Victoria has recently launched a separate, but complementary range of solid moisturising bars called the Feel Good Do Good Kunewyk Moisturising Bars, by using only natural butters and oils based on the recipe Victoria has been using on her son over the past year. She said: “His skin was so dry and itchy and the roughness disappeared and

the itching was relieved. “I only use all natural ingredients with no additives or preservatives which can strip the natural oils

Health & Wellbeing Mother creates a salve for son

from the skin.”

She added: “We will also be planting trees with the proceeds as part of the Gillingham Royal Forest Project to reinstate as many trees as we can in the former royal hunting forest.” Feedback so far has been great, with pregnant women reporting that they find them soothing for their bumps and users being amazed how quickly their dry skin disappeared. And it’s been a boon during the frantic handwashing due to the Covid

pandemic to combat dry hands. Victoria said: “It’s been really useful for people to be able to moisturise on the go. It’s in a little tin you can put in your bag.” The moisturisers are available in cooling Peppermint, refreshing Subtle Lemon and relaxing Lavender fragrances and are available to buy at kunewykwoods.co.uk for £4.75 or £12 for a set of 3. Free delivery to residents of Motcombe.

To win a trio of moisturisers, RRP £12, email newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

I felt big, old and worthless

I was a divorcee approaching a milestone birthday and retirement after 38 years in the NHS. Due to my weight I was in pain daily, struggled to exercise, and felt old and worthless.

I joined Slimming World in May 2019. Walking into that first meeting I felt frightened, lonely and ashamed, believing that people would judge me for neglecting myself. How wrong I was. I received total support from my consultant and fellow group members to lose the weight I wanted, and to boost my confidence along the way. I consider them all to be my friends.

I have lost over 2st and hope to get my 2 ½ stone award in the next couple of weeks. And with the amazing Slimming World food optimising plan I’ve achieved this, eating real food and never going hungry. Life events can influence our journey but with my

A

Natural Pain Relief therapist in Gillingham. Bio resonance scan and treatments.clinical reflexology & baby/ toddler reflexology.

consultant and group support I have found success. I am pain-free, feel 10 years younger, and am proud of myself, which has given me confidence. I have even found a new man. Thanks to Slimming World I have a bright future ahead of me.

I am physically fit enough to enjoy all life has to offer. I love to travel and can now explore the more inaccessible

walk around...

CHILD OKEFORD

ancient fort. Start at the church where there’s usually parking space nearby: there is a view up a magnificent avenue of trees flanking the drive to the Manor House. Go down to the very impressive war memorial opposite the pub and turn right, heading north-east up the lane for approaching a mile until you get to a cross road. Turn right and head south-east for a quarter of a mile until, just past a farm, you turn right and head up a path along the parish boundary hedge, then

parts of the world. The prospect of starting a new career at the age of 61 is exciting. I am looking forward to the opportunity to give support and direction to others and to help them change their lives and find the confidence, happiness and wellbeing that I have found. I believe that 60 is the new 40 and it’s never to late to start a weight loss journey. Our groups are open to any

T: 01747 826931 yvonne@intelligenthealth clinic.co.uk Making Life More Comfortable! member wanting to join, including men and our free to go options for our younger members.

Make today the day you take the plunge for a healthier you , and get in touch for a chat and to book into a session . I look forward to seeing you soon Sally...... 07973 665167

with Dorset footpaths officer Chris Slade

crossing a field to the entrance to Hambledon Hill. The hill is very important historically and impressive visually and physically (it’s steep!). You’ll find several notice boards around that give you details of the history and battles fought there. It’s owned by the National Trust and is Access Land, which means you can roam and play freely and don’t have to keep to the footpaths.

I suggest that, on this occasion, once you’ve got to the top, you veer your way round the western side as it

gives you stupendous views over the Vale, and also down over the village. If you’re in your childhood (first or second) and decide to roll down a slope, do put your purse, phone and spectacles somewhere safe and look out for cow pats! You’ll be rather giddy at the bottom – it’s what they call a ‘legal high’. Go down a coombe, passing through a wood to reach the road, then turn right and make your way up the road to where you started, possibly pausing at the Baker Arms for refreshment. Their beer is good!

This short walk starts in the village of Child Okeford and takes you in a circuit that includes Hambledon Hill, the

Gillingham

Tuesday am

Vicarage School

Rooms, Queen Street

Charlie 07827 323646

Gillingham

Tuesday pm

Vicarage School

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Queen Street

Sally 07973 665167

Shaftesbury

Thursday am and pm

The Royal Chase Hotel

Charlene 07857 392682

Blandford

Monday pm

Corn Exchange

Tracey 07776 309982

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Debbie 07415 565185

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Sturminster

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Amber hopes to win Diamond crown

By Kate Smith newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

In this edition of the New Blackmore Vale, we meet beauty queen Amber Hardy from Blandford, who will be competing in the national finals of Miss Diamond United Kingdom in February next year.

Amber, 23, dispels some of the myths surrounding pageants and reveals why she feels they still have a place in society today.

Amber took part in her first pageant aged 17 and, eight years later, is still securing success.

But she says it’s not about winning, but the friendships she has made along the way and the confidence which has grown enormously since her first competition.

“I started pageants when I was 17. I entered a small one in Somerset because I was interested in the idea of them but I didn’t really know what they were truly about.

“So before I could form my own opinion on them, I felt I had to try one out for myself, and here I am, eight years later, still going.”

“There are two main things I love about competing. The first is the friendships I’ve formed. When you arrive at a competition everyone is in the same boat - everyone is nervous and excited about the day. There is never a sense of cattiness or rivalry between the girls. Everyone is willing to help each other and cheer for someone if they need a little encouragement.

“The second reason I enjoy them is the way pageants have enabled me to grow as a person. Before I started competing I was awful at speaking In front of people and had very little confidence when it came to my selfesteem. But straight after my first pageant I realised I had

already grown as a person and I couldn’t wait to see what else I could discover about myself.”

Amber, who tragically lost her mum when she was a teenager, says she has two inspirations.

“My mum taught me the meaning of hard work and was always my biggest fan. Every time I’m about to go on stage I think of my mum and it helps me to hold my head a little higher and do her proud.

“My second inspiration is my gran. She is the strongest person I know and she is always the first person I reach for when I need help or advice.

“Both these women have made me the woman I am today. I will be forever grateful to them.”

Amber told the New Blackmore Vale that success in pageants is not just down to looks but hard work, determination, initiative and a willingness to put others first.

Amber said: “If you have all of these traits, you have a good chance to take home the crown. It’s taken me a long time to improve on my skills and trust me, I’m still learning.”

There is a view that pageants are superficial, judging women on looks alone. Amber dispels this belief and claims this view is outdated.

“This is such an outdated view on what pageants are,” said Amber. “Yes maybe in the past good looks was what it took to win but things have changed dramatically.

“Points are calculated by charity work, work in the community and through an interview stage, along with stage presence and confidence.

“In present day pageants, taking home the crown isn’t about what you look like but about who you are as a person and how you can help the community.

“In every pageant in which I have competed, each contestant has their selected charities that they raise money for. The Miss Diamond system is raising money for The Samaritans and Well Being of Women. “I love raising money for charities in fun and exhilarating ways. In the past I have completed skydives, fire walks, 24-hour cycle challenges and so many more. I love to see where each pageant journey will take me.” In February Amber will be competing in the national finals of Miss Diamond United Kingdom. The winner of each age category will then compete in the grand finals in Las Vegas.

“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to represent the UK. Miss Diamond is such a welcoming system and I am very proud to represent them.”

Villages win ten-year 30mph battle

The road signs will go up on October 23 in a North Dorset parish, home to Kington Magna and Buckhorn Weston, adjoining villages which have fought for a decade to stop traffic speeding through their lanes. Buckhorn and Kington parish was among 55 communities across Dorset who bid last year to have 30mph zones

installed.

In each community, Dorset Highways counted the volume, speed and weight of

vehicles in three places, monitored over a month by pressure strips set across the road. A history of accidents and other factors contributed to a points tally – with the 10 highest ranked ‘winning’ a speed zone.

An average of 420 cars a day were recorded as driving in excess of 30mph at two check points in Kington Magna, With 204 points, the village qualified comfortably – but speed wasn’t actually the main reason.

“The speeds weren’t that bad

as the village has such narrow roads,” said Roger Bell of Dorset Highways. The village also earned points for having six dangerous cul-de-sacs –worth 20 points each! There will be no cost to Kington or Buckhorn as Dorset Council will pick up the tab for all 10 qualifying villages in paying for ‘consultation, administration, supply and installation of signs and road markings.’ Previously, villages have had to pay for the process

Charlie’s sweet success

A tiny entrepreneur from Shaftesbury is enjoying the sweet taste of success after launching a range of vegan treats.

Charlie Norris is only seven, but he already has an empire. His mum Emma said: “Charlie has always been a bit of a wheeler dealer. He loves thinking up ways to make money – most involved selling his Pokémon cards or ice lollies out of the freezer.

“When he started talking about selling sweets, I thought why not! I was also scraping the barrel for homeschooling ideas at this point!”

She added: “It was his idea to make them vegan, as myself and Charlie’s stepdad are vegan and he knows we can’t have a lot of the sweets on offer in the supermarkets.”

Charlie did his research, investigating wholesale sweets and packaging, working out costs and then disaster struck –he only had a tenner in his

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piggy bank to fund the venture. Undaunted, he set about securing investment from each family member including his little brother, and held a ‘business meeting’ with his stepdad by ‘collaring him as he stepped out of the shower’. Emma said: “Charlie started VG Sweetie Store with £100. He has had two successful runs of sweets, enabling him to break even, and he has reinvested the profit to create a new addition to the store. He doesn’t want to let much slip, but it involves chocolate and the wacky ideas only a child can come up with!”

She added: “What started out as a little project that I assumed would last the summer, has turned into a viable little business. Charlie is of course back at school now, but he is very committed to packing bags of sweets when he gets home!”

The packaging for all the sweets is biodegradable and 10p from every bag sold goes to

Classifieds

House clearances, often without charge. We clear houses, garages and sheds all around the BVM area.

The Sea Life Trust as Charlie is passionate about Sea Turtles and their environment.

Residents of Shaftesbury who visit his Etsy store

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themselves, with costs possibly amounting to £10,000 – an amount which discouraged action despite resident protests. But the demand for a zone has continued from many.

“I’d love to see a speed limit in the villages – the amount of cars skidding to a halt to avoid horses, their riders and dog walkers is phenomenal,” said Carly Buscombe. “I’m literally waiting for the crunch or bang a lot of the time in the house.”

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Home & Garden

Gardening...

Shortening days, cooler weather and the prospect of the first frosts of the season on the horizon: one might be forgiven for thinking the gardening calendar is gearing up for hibernation. True, the gardeners’ duties become less frenetic, but this season punches above its weight when it comes

to planting trees and shrubs. Critically, plants establish quicker into new ground during autumn and have a greater survivorship than those planted in any other season. The centuries old saying: ‘Plant a tree in spring and beg it to grow but plant a tree in autumn and command it to grow’, sums up the

with botanist Dr Dave Aplin

Monday

importance of planting at this time of year. So why is autumn such a good period for planting trees and shrubs? The reason is the soil is warm from the summer and often moistened by recent rains. Conditions that tempt previously confined roots into new soil. With the naked eye it would difficult to see the proliferation of fine root hairs into the earth. Once on their journey of exploration of food and water the roots encounter and attach to naturally occurring fungi, called mycorrhiza (derived from the Greek for fungus and root), the threads of which are so small that 1,000 would be needed to be placed side-byside to measure a single millimetre.. These cryptic fungi largely go unnoticed until some produce mushrooms that we encounter in the Vale. Mycorrhiza association occurs on the roots of around 85% of all known plant species. This interaction can be traced back 450 million years to the period when the earliest land plants made the transition from an aquatic to a terrestrial environment. The plant-fungus association is mutually

beneficial, whereby the fungus receives sugars manufactured by the plant and the plant obtains nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen along with water. The real benefit for the plant is that these microscopic fungi greatly increase the surface area where the plant can forage. So great is the combined mass of mycorrhiza, Natural

association. But the main factor for the gardener is that the roots of autumn planted plants will explore the surrounding earth affording greater opportunity to intercept mycorrhiza, moisture and nutrients, potentially making the difference between life and death for your cherished plant.

England has suggested they capture a significant amount of soil carbon in the Blackmore Vale area. The association can also increase disease resistance and change the chemistry of the plant allowing them to evade insect predators that use chemical signals to locate plants.

In truth, scientists are still realising the importance of this plant-fungus

Mycorrhiza inoculum can be purchased in garden centres as a planting ameliorant. My advice, however, is that the abundance of naturally occurring mycorrhiza in most soils means additional inoculum is unnecessary. However, if you are planting on an impoverished soil or in the garden around a new build, additional inoculum would be beneficial.

Dave Aplin is a Dorset botanist. Follow him at @botanicalValues on Twitter

call: 07814 691 971

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Appeal after trailer stolen

An Ifor Williams cattle trailer has been stolen from a farm in Yetminster. The crime occurred sometime between 5pm on Monday, September 21 and 7.45am the following morning. The stolen item is a two-axle trailer and is approximately 20 years old. It has heavy duty tyres fitted. The front right side light of the trailer has been repaired with black tape, and the front left side light is new. If you have any information regarding this incident, please contact Dorset Police via the Dorset Police website

dorset.police.uk/do-it-online or email them at: 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk, quoting Dorset Police Occurrence 55200142796 Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org

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Car boot sale

A boot sale is being held at Henstridge Village Hall, Ash Walk, BA8 0QD this

Sunday from 9am until 1pm. There will be additional customer parking, hot food with tea and coffee and plenty of friendly people!

Could you be a volunteer?

The Volunteer Centre in Dorset supports volunteers and charitable organisations across the county. There is a host of information at the volunteer centre, from volunteering roles to paid work. Centre staff believe there is a volunteering role for everyone - irrespective of age, background, ability, or health. The centre strives to find the best role that suits

you. Residents who are interested in helping their local communities are being invited to ring the centre, email or register online.

Go to The Coach House, Acland Road, Dorchester DT1 1EF, or phone 01305 269214, or email

info@volunteeringdorset .org.uk

volunteeringdorset.org.uk

Time to up stumps? Look no further

A SHAFTESBURY company makes light work of removing unsightly, stubborn and problem tree stumps. No More Stumps, owned by Rico Swan and Liam Wass, has been awarded Best Garden Maintenance Firm in the South West of England by Small and Medium Enterprises – and are thrilled! “We are very proud of what we have achieved,” said Rico, who launched No More Stumps in 2017.

“The removal of tree stumps looks like a big and expensive job, but because we specialise in just tree stump removal, almost all our customers are surprised by the lack of mess

and cost. No More Stumps offers a range of tree stump removal services including large stump grinding and narrow access stump grinding.

“Our top of the range stump grinder can make short work of that unsightly, inconveniently located or difficult to remove tree stump - no matter the size!”

The duo love their work, not only do they enjoy removing

tricky tree stumps, but they enjoy working outside and meeting new people. Rico said: “With our job you meet some really nice people and get to work in some amazing estates and houses. During the summer there is nothing better than working outside!”

The company has secured five stars on Google, Bark.com and Facebook.nomorestumps.co.uk

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It’s pamper time

As lockdown begins to ease, it is time to restart the beauty and wellness rituals that have been put on hold during the global crisis. While more time at home has given ample opportunity to finesse our home treatments, nothing can rival aesthetic treatments offered by professionals, so it is little wonder we are all looking forward to returning. One cosmetic clinic setting the highest standards for face and body treatments is Emily Jane aesthetics and cosmetics clinic in the heart of Shaftesbury. Whether it is your first ever visit, or your 100th – When you enter Emily Jane’s, you immediately feel you are in “excellent and safe hands” Emily Jane clinic offers semi-permanent makeup, advanced non-surgical skin treatments and aesthetics using the most high-tech machines and reputable products. Emily prides herself in client satisfaction and aims to provide a 5 star experience every time.

Emily is a specialist in micro pigmentation aesthetics and skin health and guarantees not only a luxury experience but that her clients leave with a better understanding of how to care for their skin including products to use and avoid to ensure the optimum results.

Luxury treatments include:

n Semi-permanent makeup

n Semi-permanent makeup removal

n RF Skin tightening

n Dermaplaning

n Micro needling

n Chemical skin peels

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n Ultrasonic cavitation (body shaping & toning)

n Non-surgical BBL (Brazilian bum lift)

n 3D laser lipo

Emily Jane clinic offers free advice to ensure treatment is safe and effective for each individual. To arrange an appointment for any of the listed treatments please call or email the clinic or complete a form at emilyjaneclinic.co.uk

Call to report anti-social behaviour to councillors

Blandford residents are being invited to provide information about anti-social behaviour to Byron Quayle and Nocturin Lacey-Clarke, who sit on both the Town and Dorset Councils. Anti-social behaviour has been on the rise in Blandford and now they claim a “holistic approach” is needed to combat the problems facing residents.

Councillor Quayle said:

“Over the past few months, Noc and I have been receiving many complaints about an increase in antisocial behaviour. We are currently trying to work with the council and other organisations to help support residents and businesses with this issue.

“The reasons for the increase are wide ranging and a holistic approach is needed to deal with such problems.

“To that end, we are seeking information from local residents about any particular issue, especially if it appears to happen regularly or in the same area.”

Cllr Quayle went on to state that they wanted concise information, which would enable the councillors to help “support enforcement and better direct council support services to deal with this complicated problem.”

Councillor Quayle added: “Please could you email either Noc or myself with any particular concerns.” cllrbyron.quayle @dorsetcouncil.gov.uk cllrnoc.lacey-clarke @dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

Residents are also invited to use Facebook to message Cllr Quayle (byron4blandford) and Cllr Lacey-Clarke (nocturin.clarke).

Cycling for new students’ fund

Gillingham & Shaftesbury

Show has launched a new Student Support Fund – and hopes to raise plenty of money for it, with a 874-mile bike ride challenge. The society wants to support students entering agricultural, horticultural and countryside courses.

The show is run by the charity the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Agricultural Society, which hopes to help students who need financial support. Matthew Price, president of the society, said: “2020 has been a very strange year so far and not least for the show itself, which was forced to cancel. However, the society is determined to remain positive and during these economically uncertain times wishes to establish a new Student Support Fund.” The fund will aim to encourage and support the very best talent in land-based industries. The society will open applications in the new year, offering to help with the cost of 2021/2022 college or university course fees, books and equipment or even to help meet the significant transport costs of accessing their place of study.

Mr Price said: “We know there is a real and pressing need to help our students,

By Miranda Robertson

apprentices and trainees at this time.”

To help raise funds, immediate past society president Anthony Wilkinson, Julie Hillier and Rob Gale will soon attempt to cycle from Lands’ End to John O’ Groats, pedalling around 874 miles in just 12 days.

Mr Price added: “I am honoured to be launching such a key innovative, in such difficult times for our students. We feel strongly that it has never been more important to help the very best in the field enter such key industries which not only feed the country but also make up a vast part of the countryside economy.

“We wish Anthony, Julie and Rob the very best of luck on their long journey to John O Groats and look forward to raising a fantastic amount of money.”

You can follow the trio’s journey on the show’s social media and donate at justgiving.com/ crowdfunding/gsstude ntsupportfund.

Nature’s bounty ripe for the picking

John Keats' poem In Autumn which started with the memorable first line, 'Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness' was published 200 years ago in September 1820 and could easily describe the heart of the Blackmore Vale at this time of year as the swifts depart and we start to say goodbye to summer.

It has been a strange summer to say the least but we can hopefully look forward to a better autumn, which is for many a favourite time of year. As we have been so constrained by coronavirus it is a great time to get out and explore the richness of the countryside before the nights draw in. The hedgerows and fields at this time of year are bearing the season's fruits and it is the perfect opportunity to enjoy some foraging. Our ancestors foraged nearly all their food, but with agricultural revolution and the demands of growing city populations, food needed to be increasingly massproduced and quick to produce, so foraging became unfashionable. Perhaps the pursuit of alternative food sources by enthusiastic foodies such as Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall has kept interest in the subject bubbling along. There may be 700 or so edible wild plants in the UK.

Blackberries will be top of the list for many; fun to pick and stirring great childhood memories of collecting fruit for Mum's blackberry and apple crumbles and pies. Juicy and rich, they are now being used by chefs in rediscovered recipes from the 1950s such as lip-smacking blackberry shortcake and a luscious, toffee-like blackberry suet pie.

The beautiful, dusty dark blue of sloes is starting to shine through the prickly blackthorn branches and whilst not good to eat off the bush they are ideal for your homemade sloe gin or vodka, or how about a sloe gin and fruit sponge pudding and custard?

As you venture out you will see hedgerows dotted with pillar box red

BERRY GOOD: A wealth of hedgerow goodies now awaits foragers rosehips. Full of vitamin C, they can be used to make jams, jellies and herbal teas and rosehip syrup is a great cordial, delicious poured over ice cream. Do remember to remove the seeds and the small hairs inside, which were long used to make itching powder!

If you can beat the squirrels to it there are nuts galore to enjoy. You might be lucky enough to find a carpet of sweet chestnuts under a stately tree or two and hazelnuts a plenty in hedges. Beechnuts, although small can be peeled and eaten raw or added to salads, muesli and porridge. A great find is definitely a walnut tree in the

wild. Its nuts are moister than those found on supermarket shelves which are very dried. A fresh peeled autumn walnut is creamy and smooth. These are just few of the many fruit and nuts you will find near you but also keep an eye open for rowan and hawthorn berries, wild raspberries, strawberries and the elusive bullace. But foraging is not just about collecting food as it brings other long-lasting benefits.

Reconnecting to nature is proven to improve both mental and physical health and support wellbeing. Getting out and about and foraging should be a welcome antidote to the task-

driven days we all tend to lead, so enjoy the experience of slowing things down a bit. Whether you are looking for a bit of fruitful peace and quiet or a rewarding walk with friends and family it’s a great way to enjoy a generations-old Dorset tradition. Don't be tempted onto private land in search of better pickings without the owner's permission. Finally, to keep you and particularly your children safe, if you don’t know what it is, don't pick it or eat it. Get to know your funghi first. There are plenty of guidebooks. The Woodland Trust have some helpful information on foraging at www.woodlandtrust.org.uk

Work to improve the Stour making good progress

Stour Headwaters Project Progress 2020

The Dorset Stour is a long-neglected river, being the poor relation between the chalk streams of South Dorset and the Hampshire Avon. To redress the balance, the Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG) SouthWest are project managing work in the river through the Stour Headwaters project, which includes part of the Blackmore Vale. The project receives funding from the Environment Agency. FWAG SW has been helping farmers access Countryside Stewardship funding, manage river habitats, create sediment traps and ponds, plant hedges and support the creation of new woodlands. Doing lots of small projects across a rivers’ catchment will cumulatively help reduce downstream flood risk, protecting land

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and communities, as well as providing benefits for wildlife. Stour farmers are often keen to develop what their farm has to offer for nature. If you are on the rivers Cale, Lodden, Shreen, Upper Stour, Bow Brook, Lydden, Caundle or Wonston Brook FWAG SW can help develop projects specific to each farm.

If you would like advice on Countryside

Stewardship, soils, the quality of the river habitat on your farm and advice on how to enhance it please contact info@fwagsw.org .uk

Lots of cats missing during lockdown

An animal charity says it has been surprised by the number of cats that have gone missing during lockdown. Kate from Blandford Cats Protection says she fears some could have been taken in by well-meaning homes and is appealing to anyone who has taken in a ‘stray’ to get in touch.

She said: “We have had a number of cats reported as missing over the last six months.

“If you have taken in a cat since lockdown that has turned up in your garden, or you are aware of one that

By Miranda Robertson

nobody knows who owns it, please do call our helpline on 01258 858644 and let us know.

“We have a lot of desperate owners looking for their cats and we would love to reunite them if someone has found them. Likewise, if you have lost your cat and haven’t let us know please do, as one of our found cats could be yours.”

Here are some of the cats which have gone missing:

n Small ginger tabby boy missing from Beckett Close,

Blandford since 20/7.

n Black boy missing from Winterborne Stickland since 22/8.

n White and tabby boy missing from Pimperne since 22/8.

n Lilac Point Siamese with a white body, grey ears and paws missing from Sutton Waldron since 27/7.

n Black and white girl missing from Iwerne Minster since 2/9.

n Tabby and white boy missing from Sixpenny Handley since 31/8.

n Black Black boy missing from Horsey Rd, Sturminster

Newton since 6/9.

n Five-month-old tabby girl missing from Iwerne Steepleton since 14/9.

n Ginger tabby boy missing from Compton Abbas since 12/9.

Among cats handed in after being found are a tabby and white cat found in Shroton in May; a black and white cat found in Spetisbury in July; a black and white cat found in Newmans Close, Wimborne in July, and a white and black cat found in Wyke Rd, Gillingham in April. Contact the charity on 01258 858644.

Puzzle page

7 Abhor (6)

10 Interruptaconversation (9)

13 Typeoflapdog (9)

14 Adjusting (8)

16 Imperialcounterpart (6)

17 Spreadto (6)

20 Typeofwildcat (4)

22 Smash actress,Thurman (3)

A little slice of carnival history

Words by Mary Bailey

The roots of English carnivals go back over 100 years and carnivals still continue a great tradition of local people making their own entertainment.

Little is known of Gillingham Carnival before the Second World War, but Gillingham held its first Hospital Carnival in 1907. It was not until 1949 that regular carnivals were held. The carnivals of the 1950s were usually led by local character ‘Dinger’ Bell and the Gillingham Imperial Silver Band, which continues to lead the processions today.

Gillingham Carnival is a major event in the town’s calendar and attracts visitors from across the region. Family members often return home to Gillingham to make it into a special celebration.

Gillingham Carnival consists of a children’s carnival procession in the afternoon and a grand illuminated procession in the evening. In recent times, further entertainment ahead of the evening procession is provided by a band parade along the high street, followed by a “Cavalcade of Steam” (a magnificent display of historic steam vehicles) and after this, a majorette parade. It is organised by the Gillingham Carnival Committee, a group of volunteers who raise funds through events, donations and street collections in order to finance the running of carnival. The carnival entrants come from far and near, spending many hours preparing their costumes.The big floats, known as carts, take a great deal of planning and work, as

well as funds, to prepare them and they may travel to a number of carnivals across the region. Walking entries are equally important and also take many hours of work to design and sew the costumes.

Gillingham is fortunate in receiving wonderful support for its children’s carnival, both from individual entrants and local youth organisations.

Gillingham Carnival is the biggest and best children’s

carnival in the area.

For more information, or if you would like to be involved, call carnival committee chairman Mary Bailey (01747 823365) or go to the website: gillinghamcarnival.org.uk

Those were the days, my friend

The Afternoon Carnival Procession in 1958

2015

The Hospital Carnival Barrel Organ in 1908

The Brownies’ Toy Soldier Band in 1980

Oake Woods & Co Ltd in 1958

Motoring Classic and vintage sales move online

With Covid-19 still very much part of our daily lives and taking into consideration the terrible impact it has had on our population, we all have had to adapt the way we exist in our working environment.

It has certainly turned the motor car auction world on its head, but that is where Dorset Vintage & Classic Auctions is accommodating new and future challenges in the motoring world.

Most auction houses invite potential vendors to enter their vehicle by completing an entry form and forwarding the form together with photographs to the prospective auction house. The need for an independent inspection of a vehicle is vital and without a second appraisal, it can result in an aborted sale. It is much easier for a successful completed sale transaction if the vehicle is stored at an auction premises where potential buyers can view the vehicle safely within government guidelines.

This is where Dorset Vintage & Classic Auctions is rising to the challenging times.

We still conduct the auction sale process in the usual way: we visit the vendor, inspect the vehicle, view the history file offer any advice the client may need without any

reimbursement at point of call.

If the client wishes to proceed, we then take photographs, film the vehicle and complete an entry form. If required, we can arrange transportation at a reasonable cost to our premises for free storage prior to an auction sale. The only difference being is that the Live and Online auction sale is carried out behind closed doors and will be conducted by EasyLiveAuction.com – telephone and absentee commission bidding will remain the same but in the sure knowledge of keeping our clients and staff safe. For more information, please contact Brian Chant at Dorset Vintage & Classic Auctions (www.dvca.co.uk). Or you can call 01963/363353, and email: info@dvca.co.uk.

(Commission bid, telephone bid and online bidding only). Viewing Thursday, October 8 & Friday 9 9am-5pm

Viewing for Classic Vehicles, Motorbikes & Automobilia only Saturday 10th from 9am to 12pm.

- £17000

October 10 and 11

Next Auction 19TH MARCH

PLEASE CONTACT

BRIAN CHANT:

T: 01963 363353

E: info@dvca.co.uk

W: www.dvca.co.uk

Station Road, Stalbridge, Dorset, DT10 2RH

A 1934 Singer 9 Le Mans 2 Seater (£26,000-£29,000)

2003 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S (£20,000£22,000)

1937 SS Jaguar 2.5 Litre Sports Saloon (£40,000£44,000)

1955 Bentley R-Type Standard Steel Saloon (£28,000£33,000

2000 Bentley Arnage Red Label £15000

2014 (14) Audi A1 1.4TFSi Sport 5dr.

120bhp, petrol, sat nav,bluetooth, upto 52mpg, 26,300 miles £9750

2014 (14) Audi A6 Avant 2.0TDi Ultra SE S-Tronic Automatic Estate.

190bhp, diesel, automatic, sat nav, park sensors, leather, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, bluetooth, £30 road tax, upto 61mpg, 79,800 miles £11450

2017 (17) Fiat 500 1.2 Lounge 3dr.

Petrol, cruise control & speed limiter, sun roof, parking sensors, touch screen, bluetooth, great looking car with retro looks, upto 51mpg, 40,800 miles £6975

2018 (68) Ford Ka+ 1.2 Active 5dr.

85bhp, petrol, city & technology packs, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, speed limiter, parking sensors, touch screen, bluetooth, Active has raised ride height & exterior styling, only 850 miles £9650

2018 (68) Ford Fiesta 1.0 EcoBoost Active X 5dr.

140bhp, petrol, 1/2 leather, heated seats, touch screen, sat nav, park sensors, reverse camera, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, auto main beam, traffic sign recognition, lane keeping aid, outstanding EcoBoost engine, upto 55mpg economy, only 6,900 miles £13975

2017 (17) Ford Fiesta 1.0 EcoBoost Titanium Automatic 5dr.

100bhp, petrol, automatic, multi award winning engine, auto lights & wipers, climate, cruise control, bluetooth, upto 65mpg, 33,700 miles £9500

2016 (66) Ford Fiesta 1.0 EcoBoost Zetec Navigation 5dr.

100bhp, petrol, sat nav, city pack, parking sensors, bluetooth, hill start assist, Free road tax, upto 65mpg fuel economy, 18,700 miles

2012 (12) Ford Fiesta 1.25 Zetec 5dr.

82bhp, petrol, bluetooth & voice, usb, air con, alloys, 77,100 miles

2019 (19) Ford Focus 1.0 EcoBoost ST-Line X 5dr.

125bhp, petrol, ST styling pack, 1/2 leather, heated seats, touch screen, sat nav, parking sensors, auto lights & wipers, auto main beam, cruise control & speed limter, lane keeping aid, traffic sign recognition, bluetooth, upto 47mpg economy, 12,800 miles £16500

2011 (61) Ford Focus 1.6 Zetec 5dr.

125bhp, petrol, bluetooth, air con, heated front screen, 61,800 miles

2010 (10) Ford Focus 1.6TDCi Zetec Estate.

110bhp, diesel, bluetooth, parking sensors, £30 tax, upto 64mpg, 79,100 miles £3850

2017 (66) Ford Kuga 1.5T EcoBoost Zetec Automatic AWD SUV 5dr.

182bhp, petrol, automatic, all wheel drive, high seating position, large boot, flat fold rear seats, parking sensors, cruise control & limiter, bluetooth, 25,500 miles £13475

2006 (06) Ford Galaxy 2.0TDCi Ghia 7 Seat MPV 5dr.

140bhp, diesel, flat folding seats, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, panoramic roof with blinds, economical & spacious, massive boot in 5 seat mode, 130,800 miles £2950

2017 (67) Honda Jazz 1.3 i-VTEC SE Navi Automatic 5dr.

102bhp, petrol, automatic, sat nav, parking sensors, touch screen, auto lights & wipers, auto main beam, front scanner & pre-collision assist, city brake, cruise control & speed limiter, lane keeping aid, speed sign recognition, bluetooth, 13,500 miles £11350

2013 (13) Honda CRV 2.0i-VTEC EX 4x4 Station Wagon 5dr.

155bhp, petrol, large boot, flat folding seats, leather, heated seats, sunroof, park sensors & camera, touch screen, sat nav, cruise control, electric tailgate, 72,500 miles £9800

2009 (59) Kia Rio 1.5CRDi Strike 5dr.

108bhp, diesel, 1 owner, £30 road tax, upto 62mpg, only 76,500 miles £2250

2013 (13) Peugeot 207SW 1.6HDi Allure Estate 5dr.

92bhp, diesel, £30 tax, upto 64mpg, flat fold seats, park sensors, sunroof with electric blind, bluetooth, 1/2 leather, 37,900 miles £4950

2007 (56) Porsche Cayman S, 3.2 Coupe 2dr.

295bhp, petrol, 0-60 in 5.4 secs, 171mph, leather, 51,000 miles £15000

2018 (18) Vauxhall Viva 1.0 SE 5dr.

Petrol, high seating position, spacious small car, upto 62mpg, 16,500 miles £6500

2010 (60) Volkswagen Fox 1.2 Urban 3dr.

Petrol, ideal 1st car, low running costs, full history, 46,300 miles £2850

Electric cars will have more chance to plug in across North Dorset

FOUR council car parks in North Dorset are to get electric car charging points, which will nearly double provision across the region. With electric cars now accounting for three per cent of all new cars, a figure expected to rise sharply, there has been slow progress in installing charging points. But with cabling and installation costing up to £50,000 per unit, it is perhaps no surprise that commercial businesses have not rushed to

By Steve Keenan newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

install – instead waiting for prices to tumble in future, when demand is higher.

Dorset Council will install the units in Bell Street car park in Shaftesbury; Gas Lane car park in Gillingham and in two Sherborne car parks, Coldharbour and Old Market Yard. Each unit carries two charging points.

Until now, there have only been charging points installed

in six North Dorset locations north of Sturminster Newton: in Shaftesbury (Tesco, Kings Arms); Gillingham (Asda); Milborne Port car park; Oborn (Best Western) and Gutchpool Farm B&B. There is no charging point for 18 miles between Shaftesbury and Milborne Port on the A30, although an installation is being considered at Riverside Garage at West Stour, six miles west of Shaftesbury. The garage is planning a complete rebuild and

extension and has drafted plans to Dorset Council to include the possibility of including a charging point.

“It’s a tough call,” said coowner Seb Hawtree.

“We’ve been told it can cost £50k partly because of the cabling that will have to be laid in. Electric cars are on the rise – but how many will be bought locally?

“Is there a case to outlay now, or wait until initial costs tumble? There has to be a business case to buy now.”

Pets needing homes

Dogs

Jimmy 10 months, Lucy 8 months, many other dogs and puppies for rehoming –please phone Liz on 01963 32279 or go to somersetanddorsetanimalrescue.co.uk

Cats and kittens

Pair of kittens aged 12 weeks, many other kittens. Young female tabby, tabby/white male and many more. Please donate to our food bins in Asda

Gillingham, Morrisons

Wincanton and Bruton Vets. Somerset & Dorset Animal Rescue. Cat/kittens enquiries

– Sam 07971 079249

Blandford Cats Protection

Cats for rehoming

Chester (3) black boy: Greta (2) black girl: Phoebe (13)

calico tortie girl:

Lost Cats:

Beckett Close Blandford –small ginger tabby boy 20/7:

Winterborne Stickland – black boy 22/8: Pimperne – white & tabby boy 22/8: Sutton

Waldron – Lilac Point Siamese

Cat of the week: Holly

Holly is a delightful 15-yearold looking for a new home. She loves nothing better than curling up in the sun or on your lap. She needs to be an only cat as she has had cat flu and still sneezes a bit. She also has an over active thyroid If you could give her a loving home call 01258 858644. *Sponsored by Longmead Vets.

Greta is around two and is a sleek, leggy girl with possible oriental connections. She has gone through a lot, coming in off the street with three kittens and pregnant again. She needs time to trust you: once she does, she is the most loving of girls.

01258 858644

white body grey ears & paws

27/7: Iwerne Minster – b/w

girl 2/9: Sixpenny Handley –tabby & white boy 31/8: Horsey Rd Sturminster

Newton black boy 6/9: Iwerne

Steepleton – 5 month old tabby girl 14/9: Compton Abbas –ginger tabby boy 12/9: Lost Blandford tabby boy with collar since 10/9

Found Cats: Shroton – tabby white cat since May: Spetisbury – b/w since July: Newmans Close, Wimborne –

b/w cat since July: Wyke Rd Gillingham – white & black cat since April:

Shaftesbury tabby cat since 1/8 We are still offering neutering and micro-chipping for £5 in postcode areas DT10, DT11, SP5, SP7 and BH21 call 01258 268695

Chester is a gorgeous threeyear-old. He was troubled by something in his last home so we are looking for a quiet home with time to give him love and encouragement. He is super sweet. 01258 858644

Beautiful gentle Phoebe, left, is 13. She is a real poppet and the ultimate companion cat just loving to be with you. 01258 858644

Join forces to save our spiny friends

Hedgehog lovers are urging motorists to slow down after seven hogs were killed in the Manston Road and Green

Close area of Sturminster Newton in the second week of September.

Hedgehogs are on the ‘Red List’ for endangered species –numbers have plunged in recent years.

The hedgehog section of the Dorset Mammal Group, with Susy Varndal as Hedgehog Leader, are working hard to reverse the decline in Dorset by developing towns and villages into hedgehogfriendly habitats. So far 29 towns and villages in Dorset are on board, with a coordinator in each place.

Shirley Tweedie, hedgehog co-ordinator for Sturminster Newton, said: “There is a

speed restriction in place along Manston Road but this is too often overlooked as motorists accelerate to race up and down the hill with little regard to, quite frankly, anything.

“Hedgehogs travel around one mile every night in their quest to find food and mates. We are encouraging residents to adopt hedgehog-friendly activities in their gardens by providing water, food and shelter, not using slug pellets and poisonous sprays for plants, ensuring hogs can exit ponds safely, and importantly, making holes in/under their garden fences and walls so hedgehogs can pass safely through - creating a safe 'hedgehog highway'.”

The Dorset Mammal Group (DMG) collects data on

resident hedgehog populations and deaths.

Shirley added: “We seem to have a big problem in Sturminster with traffic, especially along Manston Road and Bath Road.

Hedgehogs also use this road, particularly at night and early morning.

“Can we all please stick to the 30mph speed limit and be more considerate to the

hedgehogs and other road users in the hours of darkness? This will not add even half a minute to your journey. Please slow down and be aware of what may be emerging/crossing the road.” White 'ghost hedgehogs' have been put out on roads in Sturminster and Charlton Marshall, where hedgehogs have been killed by drivers, to help raise awareness.

To learn more go to the Hedgehogs in Sturminster Newton Facebook page, or to support the Dorset Mammal Group email: hedgehogs@ dorsetmammalgroup.org.uk Or to join the Charlton Marshall group, email Donna Marchant: charltonmarshallhedge hogs@gmail.com.

Jelly mould among Clarke’s star lots

Clarke’s Auctions

1,000-lot, one-day sale held on September 12, was a resounding success with more than 85 per cent of the lots finding new homes.

and cover in the form of stylised flames achieving £2,000 (pictured), a large pair of Chinese crackle glazed vases and covers decorated with warriors in enamel

be a two-day event on the weekend of October 10-11, and will include the inaugural Classic Vehicle, Motorcycles and Automobilia auction.

October 10, from 9am to noon, and will conform to social distancing guidelines. The auctions will be commission and phone bids, and online bidding only, and will commence at

10am on Saturday and noon on Sunday, October 11. For further details or enquiries, please contact Richard Clarke or Matthew Whitney at the main salerooms on Station Road, Semley (01747 855109) or via email: enquiries@ clarkesauctions.co.uk.

One outstanding result was a Victorian copper jelly mould with

Benham & Froud, which sold to an internet bidder for £900. The Asian market remains buoyant with a Chinese bronze censer

colours realising £800 and a pair of Chinese famille rose Gu vases decorated with precious objects selling for £800. With Christmas fast approaching, a fabulous Italian Buccellati style silver evening clutch bag with 18ct gold highlights and a sapphire clasp sold for £1,150 and would make a fantastic Christmas present for a discerning lady. A 19th century natural and stained bone European Selenus pattern chess set and travelling mahogany and boxwood chess board sold for £1,150 and an unusual lot and rarely seen at auction was a set of four crumhorns by Gunter & Korber, which performed well and sold for £1,200. Their next auction will

The sale on Saturday will start at 10am and will see the Antiques & Collectables being offered for sale: Sunday is earmarked for the motor related auction, which will include approximately 200 lots of automobilia. With something for all motoring enthusiasts, there will be pre-WWII Brooklands items, enamel signs and a collection of Austin 7 spares. The motorcycles being sold range from a restored Triumph Speed Twin to a collector’s Ducati 851 (pictured), previously owned by the dastardly duo of Top Gear’s James May and Richard Hammond.

“Blue Oval” (Ford) collectors are catered for, with an Orion saloon in original condition with just 22,000 on the clock (pictured, above), and a boy racer XR2.

Viewing is available for both sales on Thursday October 8 and Friday October 9, from 9am to 5pm, and also on Saturday

Antiques & Collectables and Classic Vehicles, Motorbikes &

Estimate £200 - £400

A Victorian copper jelly mould with recumbent lion by Benham & Froud, which sold to an internet bidder for £900

Automobilia

An early 19th century oil on canvas painting depicting two young girls.

NewseasononZoom!

Afriendlyclubforeveryonewithaninterestin photographyandcameras.

Newmembersalwayswelcome:itdoesn’tmatter whetheryou'reabeginnerorexperiencedwitha smartphone,smallcompactorabigDSLRcamera.

Pleasecontactussowecanincludeyou inourZoommeetings

Ourprogrammeincludestalksbyguestphotographers,practical hands-onsessionsincludingsocially-distancedoutings,plusfriendly internalandinter-clubcompetitions.

WehaveZoomworkshopstohelpwiththeartandtechnologyto improvephotographsandtoincreaseourfunandenjoyment.

ZoomMeetingsarefortnightlyonThursdaysat7:30pm SeptembertoMay

Hopefullywewillreturntothe RoyalBritishLegionHall, (CoppiceSt.,nexttoTesco's)sometimenextyear.

Weare opentoall,sojoinusfreefortwomeetingsbefore decidingtojoinforjust£35ayear.Visitorswelcomeforupto3 meetingsforfeeof£5/meeting.

Fulldetailsatwww.shaftesburycameraclub.org.uk

FindusonFacebookor

Emailinfo@shaftesburycameraclub.org.uk

An exhibition of contemporary local artists is on at the Arts Centre in Shaftesbury until September 29. John Dimech is exhibiting ‘Colours of our County’ in acrylics on canvas and paper; Lindsay Keir is showing ‘Nature’ in mixed media including collage and gold leaf; Yvonne Sturgeon is exhibiting ‘Ancient and sacred land and creatures’ in mixed media and Ruth Paris is showing ‘Creation’ on glass, including still life with mixed media.

Lots on at arts centre gallery

We were lucky enough to be able to reopen The Gallery at Shaftesbury Arts Centre after lockdown at the beginning of July, with Covid 19 guidelines in place. Since then we have had a steady stream of sociallydistanced visitors and buyers. We had to rework the shows to fit in those who were due to show their work in MarchJune. But we now have a full list of exhibitions right up to the end of this year and beyond.

Calling singers to choir

SINGING lifted the spirits for thousands of people during lockdown.

And while the many hundreds of choirs which take place each week in village halls, community spaces and even sheds and front rooms could no longer meet, choirs carried on – online.

And Shaftesbury Community Choir was no exception!

Formed in 2010, Shaftesbury Community Choir is a very popular choir which welcomes everyone of ages and abilities.

You do not need to feel you’re any good at singing at all – a choir is a great example of how the whole can be greater than the parts!

By Kate Pickard Shaftesbury Arts Centre Volunteer Gallery Team

As before, there is a mixture of mediums and styles, traditional and more contemporary, 2D and 3D. Some exhibitions are only on for one week, while others span two weeks.

Our change-over day is Tuesday, with artists hanging their work in the evening ready to open on a Wednesday morning. 2021 and 2022 are both fully

booked but if you are interested in showing your work with us do get in touch, as we sometimes have cancellations. Email gallery@shaftesburyartscentre .org.uk. The website shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk gives more information about individual artists and examples of their work. The auditorium is reopening tomorrow (September 26), with the film Military Wives All information is on the website.

The emphasis is on singing for fun rather than performance. There is no audition, no requirement to read music and anyone is welcome to join at any time with no need to attend. Shaftesbury Community Choir is a member of Making Music, which was founded in 1935. Making Music is the UK’s number one organisation for leisure time music, with around 3,500 member groups representing around 200,000 music makers.

Julia, who runs the choir, said: “While we cannot meet at the Town Hall we are meeting virtually at our usual time and would love to see you!”

Some 50 people were joining in and singing from their homes (you cannot be heard by anyone else who is joining in).

If you need any help and/or zoom links just call Julia on 07957 619968.

Is this our smallest local theatre..?

I'm Geoff McHugh. I live in Charlton Horethorne and I think I can fairly claim to run the smallest theatre in the Blackmore Vale.

Toy theatre (or Juvenile Drama) was hugely popular in the first half of the 19th century.

Many London printers produced printed sheets of the ‘blood tub’ melodramas and pantomimes of the day (most of which, it's only fair to say, are best forgotten!)

The printed sheets displayed the characters (and scenery) from the plays. They were often produced only days after the original stage productions.

The sheets were supplemented by playbooks, very badly abridged scripts from the original plays.

Older children (juveniles) bought the sheets, coloured them in, cut out the characters, stuck them on card, put them on rods and (using the playbooks) produced their own toy theatre productions.

I'm keeping this tradition alive in my Neptune Theatre (a replica of an early toy theatre).

As most of the original toy

theatre plays are incomprehensible and/or dull as ditch water I've started to produce my own. The first is ‘The Beatles: A Medieval Mystery Tour’, a comic but chilling portrayal of the Beatles’ ill-fated 1964 tour with the Dave Clarke Five.

This is when they famously encountered the beasts that had appeared through the time spiral (oh, come on, it was in all the papers!). Lockdown regulations permitting, I plan to put on this spectacular event for sell out audiences very soon.

Live streaming makes return to Shaftesbury’s Arts Centre

Shaftesbury Arts Centre is delighted to resume its live streaming events with Romeo and Juliet, choreographed by Alexei Ratmansky and performed by the Bolshoi Ballet company.

The story of Verona’s starcrossed lovers never ceases to delight and yet devastate audiences.

Celebrated Bolshoi stars

Ekaterina Krysanova and Vladislav Lantratov

portray the star-crossed lovers who are destined to pay the ultimate price for their forbidden romance. The box office is currently closed, so all booking must be made online.

Sunday, October 11 at 2pm and 7pm. Tickets £15, Under 18s £12 Find full details at shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk

If you would like me to perform a toy theatre production for charity in the local area, please email mchugh_hill@hotmail.com Be aware, the maximum audience is eight people...it's not covid, it's because the stage is so small!

Artsreach now online

ART lovers in Blandford can tune into Artsreach for a rich mixture of music, dance and theatre digitally. Artsreach runs a variety of innovative participatory projects across the county, working with a diverse range of communities and across art forms. Artsreach is Dorset’s charitybringing high quality performances of live theatre, music, dance and family shows to the heart of rural communities.If you are missing theatre, art and dance you can tune into Artsreach digital diary! For more details go to: artsreach.co.uk

Geoff McHugh with his teeny tiny theatre

‘Frieda was an incredible character’

settled into village life and he took over the family business. Frieda worked alongside him for many years, while bringing up her four children – Wendy, Roy, Alan and Gillat their home in Bowden Road.

A popular member of the Templecombe community who was an integral part of village life for 60 years has died at the age of 107. Frieda Baxter spent many happy years living in Somerset and ran RL Baxter the butchers with her husband, Richard ‘Dick’ Baxter.

Born in Germany in 1913, Frieda started her career working as a nanny for a German ambassador.

She spent time in Berlin and New York, and even met Albert Einstein at a party in the American city. Frieda moved to London in the mid 1930s, and met her future husband at a ball in Selfridges while he was

training to be a butcher with Sainsbury’s.

The couple fell in love and were married in 1938, and she moved to Templecombe when the war broke out. After Dick returned from serving in the military, they

Dick died in 1985, aged just 70, but Frieda remained in the village for 10 more years. She moved to Swanage in Dorset in 1995, and lived in the town for 25 years before her death at York House care home on Wednesday, September 16.

Daughter Gill said: “My mother was one-of-a-kind. “She was strong-willed and an incredible character and I am proud of everything she achieved in her long life.” A private funeral service will take place in Poole on Friday, October 2. The family has asked for donations to be made to spinal injury charity Aspire in memory of her beloved son Roy, who died after a spinal injury in 2014.

Ilove to hare around the Dorset countryside

The Shaftesbury aera was my home for several years.

I now split my time 50/50 between the Cambrian Mountains, mid Wales and the Dorset coast, but the north Dorset area has an unbreakable hold on me. As a wildlife photographer hares are my favourite subject and through the good nature of a local Shaftesbury family, I spend many happy days photographing hares on their estate. Most believe March and April are the best times to capture images of my furry friends as it’s the season of hare boxing madness. In fact, I love the months of June July and August photographing

By photographer David Bailey

the young hares known as leverets. To lie in the early morning sun with Win Green on the horizon is heaven to me, made even better when I receive a visitor. The young hares can be very inquisitive, although wary of this lump of a human lying prone on the ground and can come to investigate. If I move or click the camera shutter button my foe backs off or runs away. So, I wait motionless, neck and arms aching. I have suffered from sun stroke while lying there all in the name of capturing an image,

but it is worth the pain! When a subject is in the perfect position, click goes my camera, just occasionally the hare is not disturbed and proceeds with their mission in life rather than run away. These are the moments I crave when something wild comes so close, occasionally I just soak in the moment. My second book called Wildlife Wanderings (Halsgrove Publishing) is to be published this October, signed copies will be available through my website, davidbaileyphotographywales .co.uk

Many of the subjects are from Dorset including my best-

selling image, A Bad Hare Day. He leapt out of fiveinch-high grass soaking wet in early morning dew and ran towards me before sitting down.

Frieda with her late husband Dick

Business

We’re working together to save the high street

With the economy starting to open up again after lockdown, it is tempting to think that business and the high streets are also returning to normal. But with many people continuing to work from home, the high street is still struggling as workers are not picking up a coffee on the way to their desk, shopping in their lunch break or grabbing a pint at the pub after work. And with some people preferring to work from home, the long-term effect could see businesses no longer needing large and expensive office space. The change in how we work and shop will undoubtedly affect both landlords and tenants in the office sector and retail on the high street. Commercial Property Partner Justin Hopkins discusses the importance of both parties working together at this time to keep businesses and the high street going: While the reopening is great news for businesses and their landlords, it does not mean that tenants will be able to pay rent. On the contrary, it is anticipated there will be greater default in relation to the June quarter than the March quarter as tenants incur the cost of reopening their premises and reinstating staff who have been on furlough.

For some tenants, they may be considering whether it is financially worthwhile reopening at all as social

distancing requirements are likely to increase expense and reduce income. If a lease is due to expire in the relatively near future or there is the opportunity to break the lease, then these might all be options for tenants who don’t feel that they can survive in a postcovid-19 world.

Given the current restrictions on rent collection and forfeiture, there is also a risk that many tenants will not pay their rents even if they can afford to do so; preferring to use their cash for other purposes.

The practical advice remains for landlords and tenants to seek to work together share information about their financial positions.

Going forward, with the likely changes to office work practices post covid19 and the rise of online trade the business world is going change for the office and high street sectors. Landlords and tenants will have to be collaborative and creative in looking at how the next phase of leases will be drafted to ensure that balance between certainty for both parties and flexibility for potentially nervous tenants.

If you need help to agree a rent concession, rent holiday or re-structure your lease, get in touch with Justin Hopkins today on 01935 813 691 or email Justin.hopkins@mogersdre wett.com.

Markets prove popular in Sturminster Newton

Sturminster Newton is open for business!

Sadly, the Cheese Festival was cancelled this year, but on Saturday, September 12 a pop-up producer’s market attracted over 20 traders with a further 16 craft stalls in The Exchange.

A smaller market, held on August Bank Holiday Monday, was the first step in attracting fabulous Dorset food and drink traders to Sturminster Newton. This approach builds on our town’s growing great food offer.

With Oxfords Bakery recently relocating into the Market Place near to Holebrooks (butchery and deli) and Root & Vine (fruit & veg) providing easier access to delicious essentials, it’s time to take a closer look at the many

By Jacqui Wragg of SturBiz

other gems on offer in our town, including the newly opened Bank House Brasserie and The Emporium.

This positive activity has created a real buzz and vibe and has been especially welcoming for all our local businesses, many of them family-run independents offering that personal customer service.

So take a look for yourself. Make some time and enjoy the relaxed shopping and dining experiences available in Sturminster Newton. Further information can be found at:sturminsternewton.org.uk/events/event s-festivals and facebook.com/SturBiz.

Recruitment

Handy man/gardener wanted Child Okeford area

We are seeking a reliable handyman and gardener on our small farm near Child Okeford for two to three days a week. The job includes weeding, mowing, strimming, cutting wood, maintaining garden machinery and generally helping maintain three properties. If you are interested please ring 01258 863413

ARMISHAWS SMALL MOVES

Its not the size that matters it’s the way you move it!

Armishaws operate a 昀eet of small removal vans throughout Dorset, Somerset and Wilshire catering for those clients who only need a small removal but still want the expertise provided by a larger removal company.

With prices ranging from £300 for a local move our services are tailored to meet your needs.

Just for kids

Wildlife corner with World Life Conservation

Hello and welcome to Wildlife Corner where you will discover some awesome facts about nature which you can then use to amaze your friends and family!

In this issue we are beginning our “All Things Slimy” adventure and finding out all about worms!

Did you know?

Worms breathe through their skin and need to be kept moist to help them absorb the oxygen which is in the air. Worms don’t have legs but are covered in tiny bristly hairs called setae which help them move.

They have existed for around 600 million years!

There are approximately 34,000 different types of worm of them are 6,000 Earthworm species. The U.K itself has 30 different species of Earthworm

Some worms are so tiny you can only see them with a microscope!

There is a species of Tubeworm that lives deep down in the Gulf of Mexico ocean, which scientists believe can live to between

200 and 300 years old! The largest worm ever found was discovered in South Africa in 1967. It measured 6.7 metres in length!

What do Earthworms eat?

Worms are detritivores, which means that they eat dead and decaying organic matter. They play an important role on the planet, as they help to breakdown and compost things like rotting wood and leaves. Worms don’t have teeth, instead they suck in food through their mouth and use

Tongue twister!

grit found in the soil to help break it down. Where do worms live?

Worms can be found living on every continent apart from Antarctica. Some worms live in the soil, some live in fresh water, others are able to live in the seas and oceans. Experiment!

Undertake a worm survey! Worms are really useful in a garden, and it can give a good idea as to how healthy the soil is by the number which you see, the more worms the better!

Have a go at this French tongue twister all about a green worm!

Les vers verts levèrent le verre vert vers le ver vert.

Here’s an English one!

The green worms lifted the green glass towards the green worm.

With adult help, pop out into your garden and using a spade cut a square which is approximately 30 centimetres wide. Now, carefully lift off the turf and gently dig see how many worms you can find. When you have finished, carefully return the soil and turf then move to a different area.

Why not take note of the time, date, weather conditions and season to see if that makes a difference to how many worms you count? Why do you think your results may change?

you can read it too!)

This is a new section, aimed at young people. If you have anything you’d like to submit to this section, email newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

Chance for children to learn sport of angling

Junior angling with Graham Howard

Sale of kids’ stuff

Little Monsters

the club’s AGM each April. Fishing can be a wonderful pastime that is open to girls and boys from any background.

Dorchester and District Angling Society (DDAS)

Juniors are coached by a group of experienced volunteer anglers, led by me –level 2 angling coach, Graham Howard.

Our aim is coach young people between the ages of six and 17 about the popular pastime of coarse fishing. From beginners’ taster sessions to our carefully structured coaching program, juniors will learn about the many aspects of angling, about the species of fish they will encounter, about how to care for them and to respect the environment in which they live.

To see how well our juniors are progressing, we host a series of friendly matches on a variety of local venues. From these matches, they can earn points towards a junior championship as well as other awards that are presented at

You can find solitude on your own, lost in your own world. Or you can find friends for life and enjoy the social side of the sport. Either way, juniors will become part of a larger fishing family within the club. With our guidance, you can improve your knowledge and learn new skills to make the best of any opportunity you get to go fishing. Most people are amazed at just how much more there is to fishing, compared to how they imagined it to be. If you would like to know more about DDAS Juniors then feel free to contact me on 07368 213313, or juniors.sec@ d-das.com or send us a message via our Facebook page, ‘DDAS Juniors’. Under 10s are free if a parent is or becomes a full member. If neither parent is an angler, then a Non Fishing Parent membership is available for £5. Age 10-13 the fee is £10. 13 to 17 fee is £20. Memberships are valid until May 31 each year and are renewed on June 1. A Coarse Fishing rod licence is required for 13 to 16 y/o, these are free from your local Post Office. Equipment is usually provided.

Soft play nearly ready

Crazy Monsters soft play in Blandford say they are ‘very excited’ that they will soon be able to open again. They are asking parents to keep an eye

out on their website and social media while they get fully ready to open as a covid-safe facility.Go to crazymonsters.co.uk

Blandford Market are giving parents the chance to bag quality secondhand children’s items this Sunday, September 27. The sale will be held at Bryanston Club from 10.30-12.30.

Pre loved stalls offer bargains such as quality maternity and children's items including clothes, toys and equipment at a fraction of their original cost.

Local craft stalls provide special items such as handmade keepsakes. Business stalls offer local information that as

parents you will find useful such as local children's groups, special offers on hair and beauty and much more.

To book a stall go to littlemonstersmarket.co.uk Entry is £1.50, children free.

Pre loved stalls cost £12, craft stall and business stalls available – enquire for price.

Further information and stall bookings are at littlemonstersmarket.co.uk

There is a large free car park.

Stalls get booked quickly so don't miss out!

Keziah’s Book Review

#galaxygirl by Bev Smith

#galaxygirl is a fantastic and exciting book written as a blog from Esme to her Mum. “Hi Mum” she blogs “So, I guess you’ve noticed I’m missing.”

So, let me introduce you to 12 year old Esme Tickle, she hates school and her only friend comes from another planet. Keen to join her new friend on a trip to out of space Esme is taken to planet Kratos where her adventures begin.

Author Bev Smith, throughout this book uses

exciting language to describe the characters and the world that she has created. Be prepared to laugh out loud!

Planet Kratos is certainly a place that I would like to visit, I wonder if it actually exists?

I highly recommend GalaxeyGirl to anyone who likes Sci-Fi adventure and fantasy. I give #galaxygirl a big thumbs up …lets hope there is a sequel really soon.

Keziah lives in Blandford with her parents and siblings, attends Knighton House Prep School and Loves Books, Netball, tennis and Riding. She hopes that her monthly book reviews will inspire other children to pick up a book and read…

Foster mum Tracy is an inspiration

By Miranda Robertson

WHEN foster carer Tracy

Wall looks at pictures of the brother and sister she’s been caring for, she can see the transformation she has achieved.

“The tiredness has gone from their eyes,” she said. “They have grown up, and now they are so ready for their new mummy and daddy.”

Tracy, 51, has been fostering children for Dorset County Council at her Gillingham home for 18 months.

This is the second sibling group she has cared for, and the second time she will have to say goodbye.

While it’s hard, the sense of achievement is enormous: “I did cry when the first children went to their adoptive parents,” she said. “But then I packed a bag and when my husband Carey came home we jumped in the car and went away for a few days. “We came back refreshed and ready to start again.”

Tracy has had her latest siblings for a year and is proud of how much she has managed to achieve.

“When they first came to me one of them was weeing in the corner, the other was in nappies and had a dummy,” she said.

“Now they are both toilet

trained and have table manners and they are happy to go to their new home.

“They came with only the clothes they stood up in.

“No toys, no medical notes. I didn’t even know if they had any allergies.

“But gradually I got to know them. I probably know them better than anyone now.”

Tracy was inspired to foster after Carey heard a radio advertisement and said to her:

“We could do that.”

She said: “I have always worked with children, in

schools and nurseries, and I’ve worked with children with disabilities.

“Carey has been absolutely fantastic – so supportive.

“My two daughters, who are 28 and 23, have also been brilliant, taking the kids out for shopping and outings, and my parents have treated them like their own grandchildren – the children have loved playing in mum and dad’s garden and going on muddy walks with them.

“I think you need to have a good support network

because sometimes it can be hard. You can feel you are taking two steps forward and one back at times.

“But the satisfaction you get from doing a good job is fantastic. I do enjoy it – it’s so rewarding.”

Dorset County Council needs lots of new foster carers in the area and offers generous fees and allowances in return. The only criteria are that you must be over 21 and have a spare room.

To find out more go to fosterindorset.co.uk

Dorset Showground – what’s on

Saturday 3 October

Dorset Showground

Unaffiliated Dressage

Monday 12 October

Dorset Showground

Unaffiliated Evening Dressage

Sunday 18 October

Dorset Showground Senior British Show Jumping

Saturday 24 October

Dorset Showground

Unaffiliated Dressage

Saturday 31 October

Dressage Improvement Day

Monday 2 November

Dorset Showground

Unaffiliated Evening Dressage

Sunday 8 November

Dorset Showground Eventers Challenge

Saturday 21 November

Dorset Showground

Unaffiliated Dressage

Sunday 6 December

Dorset Showground Eventers Challenge

Saturday 12 December

Dorset Showground

Unaffiliated Dressage

Sunday 13 December

Arena Eventing Clinic with Andrew Harris

Tuesday 29 December

Dorset Showground Senior British Show Jumping

ARE YOU RECRUITING?

Why not use your local trusted paper to reach an audience of 69,000?*

Whatever the vacancy, we can help you reach people in the local community who have the skills and the local knowledge of the area to fit your role.

For more information please email debi.thorne@icloud.com

*based on a distribution of 30,000 copies with an average of 2.3 readers per copy.

BOOK YOUR FREE AD!

Freeads will be accepted for items for sale by private sellers on items up to the value of £100. For anything outside these terms, please contact our booking line on 01963 400186 or email classified@blackmorevale.net

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THE FEEL GOOD DO GOOD

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Feel the difference to your skin by using our handmade, all-natural ingredient moisturising bars. Rich in Shea Butter and Coconut Oil, these moisturisers will leave the roughest and driest skin feeling softer and nourished after one use.

Handmade on the Dorset farm, each moisturiser comes in a handy aluminium tin so you can carry it anywhere you go.

Not only will your skin feel good, you will do good as proceeds from each sale goes towards tree planting on the farm. With fully recyclable packaging, you will also help to save the planet by cutting back on climate changing plastic pollution.

Please post your advertisements to Blackmore Vale, 3 Alfred’s Way, Wincanton, BA9 9RU. Ads will go in the next edition if received by the Friday before publication.

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Food & Drink Sample the delicious delights of Dorset

By Katharine Wright

Dorset Apple Cake, Dorset Naga, Dorset Knobs, or Dorset Blue Vinny – What is your favorite Dorset delight? Unlike some counties like Cornwall, which is famous for its pasties, or Lincolnshire for its sausages, Dorset today produces a whole array of

outstanding food and drink. The backbone to it all is our rich farming heritage together with the collection of protected landscapes and today 100’s of creative people that have chosen Dorset to set up their foodie business, it’s easy to understand why Dorset produces such a fantastic selection of produce. We have everything traditional farmers, to artisan drink producers, coastal fishermen to award-winning bakeries, there is not much we don’t produce here in our beautiful county.

Our traditional farmers producing succulent lamb, mutton, beef, pork, and goat, to coastal fisherman hauling in fresh fish and shellfish daily, market gardeners producing the colorful amount of tasty vegetables and famously with an abundant of dairies especially in the Blackmore Vale area – known to Thomas Hardy as the ‘Vale of Little Dairies’, we have a wonderful collection of cheeses, yogurts, creams and of course milk that tastes as I

remember it as a child. With this abundance of food, we need an abundance of drinks to supplement our meals and like the food, Dorset does not disappoint with a growing sector. We have numerous apple orchards producing traditional cider, brewers brewing quite a selection of beers and we are becoming famous for our still and sparkling wine, giving our channel neighbors a run for their money. Maybe your tipple is vodka or gin, again fear not we have distilleries all across the area, some vodka even being made from the whey of our milk. Keeping your store cupboard stocked with Dorset produce is easy too, with bakeries in most towns, sea salt from the Dorset Coast, jams, chutneys, ketchup, and vinaigrettes being stirred up with many cottage-style businesses, along with many specialists that have chosen to set their business here, like Olives, spices, and tea.

In normal times Dorset really does celebrate all this variety with many food festivals throughout the year.

From large events like the Dorset Seafood Festival, and the Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival to the smaller and more intimate classic food events, and even some quirky ones like the Dorset Knob Throwing Festival and The Shaftesbury Food Festival, which incorporates quirky activities like the

Cheese run-up Gold Hill. In this column, I want you to enjoy your Dorset Delights but also take you on a foodie journey tantalising your taste buds encouraging you to explore our great food and drink available to you right on your doorstep.

Buying local supports the farmers, the artisan producers, and connecting us all together making Dorset a stronger county for our future.

07944790514

If you’re a producer reading this and you would like us to cover your story and products, or maybe you’re a chef who loves cooking with the array of Dorset products then please get in touch with us at newsdesk@blackmorevale.net and we can discuss a future issue to celebrate you.

Katharine Wright is a Dorset food blogger. See her blog on Facebook by searching @thehungrygiraffeeats

hello@blackcatcatering.co.uk blackcatcatering.co.uk

During these challenging times where getting out to do shopping or collecting a takeaway is difficult, we can help!

Let Black Cat Catering remove the stress and look after the food for you. If you need a freshly prepared, delicious homecooked meal, along with a tasty dessert then look no further. We will deliver to your home or you are welcome to collect from Sarah at 15 West Orchard. Your order will be ready for you to simply heat up and enjoy! Please visit our facebook page or our website to look at our menu of the week or just give us a call and place your order!

Vegetarian and gluten free options are available by request. Saturday orders will be delivered on Friday.

Frieda Baxter 07/01/1913 - 16/09/2020

Previously of Templecombe, Frieda passed away peacefully in Swanage aged 107. Frieda was a much-loved mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother and great-great grandmother. She was an incredible, determined lady and will be greatly missed. Due to current guidelines, a small private funeral will take place on Friday, October 2nd.

Family flowers only please but donations can be made to spinal injury charity Aspire in memory of Frieda's beloved son Roy via funeraldirector.co.uk/frieda-baxter

Fully guaranteed, inflation-proof, pre-paid funeral plans

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Vicar’s book chronicles his lockdown of daily thoughts

A Gillingham vicar who took to emailing his flock a daily ‘thought for the day’ has published a compelling lockdown diary.

The Rev Tim Heaton is selling his book, Harvest of a Quiet Eye, in aid of the parish churches of Gillingham, Milton on Stour and Silton. All royalties received –minimum £1 per book – will be donated.

On Tuesday, March 17, as the coronavirus pandemic took hold across the UK, the Archbishop of Canterbury announced that public worship in the Church of England would be suspended to help slow the spread of the virus.

The following day, and every day thereafter until public worship resumed on Sunday, July 5, Rev Tim emailed a short ‘thought for the day’ to everyone in his church family.

The book includes all 109 messages sent during

lockdown, providing an amazing aide memoir of an extraordinary time. Rev Tim said: “They tell the story of a peculiar time, a period first of fear and later of hope, a time of soul searching, of seeking a greater future for humanity, and dreaming of the better life we would one day resume.”

Harvest of a Quiet Eye is available now from Amazon, priced £1.99 for the Kindle edition or £4.99 in paperback.

Church services

Services for September 27 –16th Sunday after Trinity – in the Church of England in & around Shaftesbury:

9.30am Parish Communion at St Peter’s 9.30am Parish Communion at Motcombe

11.15am Parish Communion at Melbury Abbas

6pm Reflective Communion at St James’

6pm Live-stream evening worship on our Facebook page: facebook.com/ ShaftesburyCofE

Services for October 4 – 17th Sunday after Trinity – in the Church of England in & around Shaftesbury: 9.30am Family Service for

Rev Richard’s round-up

A parishioner gave me a little booklet the other day and I thought it would be nice to share what it contained. What’s the world like? The world is beautifully designed, we have day and night, seasons, warmth and cold and such a variety of food that we can eat different things each and every day. It is a planet of great beauty. Mountains and lakes, green fields, woods and rivers and such incredible sights with marvellous sunsets. But it can also be a frightening place with storms, drought, fire and flood and it is these forces of nature that we need to treat with care. As a member of a lifeboat crew said: “The sea is very powerful and if you once forget that it will bite you back.”

We are seeing this at the moment with covid-19. If you ignore it and do not follow the rules and guidelines it will certainly bite you back and the result could be catastrophic. We are all capable of great achievements and inventions. We can create beautiful

music, books and paintings and loving relationships. But we are also capable of pollution, war and human disaster, murder and robbery along with cruelty and abuse. We believe Jesus is God in human form. A teacher and healer, and a model of how we should lead our lives. God wants us to recognise him as our Creator and to love and honour him. He asks us to be truly sorry for the wrongs we have done and to ask his forgiveness. We try to follow his commandments and follow the teachings of Jesus about loving and caring for one another in all we do. So what can you do now? You could take the plunge and come to church. You will always be welcome at any of our services and do not worry you will not know what to do. Each service has a booklet with all the words and where to stand and sit. You too might want to belong and be part of a Christian community. Give it a try.

Harvest at St Peter’s

9.30am Parish Communion for Harvest at St James’

11.15am Family Service for Harvest at Enmore Green

11.15am Harvest Festival at Margaret Marsh

6pm Evening Communion at Motcombe

6pm Live-stream evening worship on our Facebook page: facebook.com/ ShaftesburyCofE shaftesburycofe.org.uk or 01747 853060.

Sherborne

Sunday, September 27

9am: Celtic Morning Prayer, St Paul's @ The Gryphon,

9.30am – Parish Eucharist for the Sixteenth Sunday after

Trinity, Harvest Festival

The Abbey Church of St Mary the Virgin, Sherborne

10am – Harvest Holy Communion. The Church of St James the Great, Longburton

10am - Morning Service

The Church of St Martin of Tours, Lillington

10.30am - Recorded

Eucharist for the 16th Sunday after Trinity. The Abbey Church of St Mary the Virgin, Sherborne (YouTube link is on the Abbey website)

11am - Mattins

The Church of St Mary Magdalene, Castleton Gillingham

10am at St Mary’s Church,

Gillingham – A service of Holy Communion using Common Worship.

10.30am at St Nicholas, Silton – Holy Communion.

6.30pm at St Simon and St Jude, Milton on Stour – A said service of Evensong

Blandford Parish Church

An online service on the church Facebook Page at 10am each Sunday. Go to the church Facebook page to view. Blandford Evangelical Church

10am: Online service at becbygrace.com

with Rev Richard Priest, of Stour Vale Benefice

Planning applications

Ansty

Foxfield, Cothayes Drove: Discharge of Condition No. 5Tree and Hedge protection; following grant of Planning Permisson 2/2020/0408/FUL.

Blandford Forum

3 Parkers Mews, Salisbury Street: Install front and rear dormer windows to create additional accommodation.

11 Larksmead: Erection of 2 storey side extension and single storey rear extension.

8D West Street: Install new slate roof and raise ridge line, replace existing rooflights, remove chimney and replace with a metal flue pipe. Relocate staircase and incorporate garage into additional living accommodation and carry out associated internal and external alterations.

8D West Street: Install new slate roof and raise ridge line, replace existing rooflights, remove chimney and replace with a metal flue pipe and incorporate garage into additional living accommodation.

Willowtree Farm, Bullocks Lane: Certificate of Lawfulness to continue using the land to station a mobile home structure which has been used as a permanent dwelling for in excess of ten years.

M C Truck And Bus Ltd, Shaftesbury Lane: Display of 4no. internally illuminated fascia signs and 2no. internally illuminated & 1no. non­illuminated entrance/gateway signs.

96 Downside Close: Erect single storey and two storey rear extensions (demolish conservatory).

Blandford St Mary

Littleton House, Bournemouth Road: Discharge of condition Nos.

1 ­ Commencement Listed

Buildings & Conservation, 2Plans, 3 ­ joinery, 4 ­ Orangery scheme, 5 ­ bathroom, 6 ­ Vents and flues, 7 ­ pipework and 8conservation rooflights from listed building consent 2/2018/1540/LBC.

Littleton House, Bournemouth

Road: Discharge of condition Nos.

1 ­ Commencement, Full Permission, 2 ­ Plans, 3 ­ Joinery and 4 ­ Orangery scheme from Planning Permission 2/2018/1539/HOUSE.

Bourton

Bourton Cross, Brickyard Lane: Demolish existing extension.

Erect 1 No. single storey extension.

Buckhorn Weston

Weston Fields, Symphony Farm: Erect detached garages with first floor annexe.

Child Okeford

Rossiters, High Street: Discharge of condition Nos. 3 ­ Chimney pots from listed building consent

2/2020/0496/LBC.

Compton Abbas

Site Of Bere Knap Drones Lane: Non­material amendment to Planning Permission

2/2016/1758/FUL to reduce size of carport shed/store.

East End, Chapel Hill: Conversion of garage to additional bedroom, convert and extend potting shed to reading room. Convert and extend potting shed to reading room.

15 Mill Rise: Erection of single storey side extension with internal alterations

Fontmell Magna

Land South of Little Orchard Parsonage Street: Discharge of condition Nos. 6 ­ Turning and parking, 9 ­ Vehicle Access Construction and 10 ­ BMP from planning permission

2/2018/1260/FUL.

Brooklands Barn, West Street: Erection of single storey extension.

Springhead Farm, Mill Street: Certificate of Lawfulness to continue occupying the dwelling in breach of the agricultural occupancy restriction imposed by Condition No. 1 of Planning Permission 2/75/710(19).

Gillingham

St Matthews Farm, Shaftesbury Road, Forest Deer: Change of use of 2 No. agricultural buildings to form 2 No. dwellings (Class C3).

19 Poppyfields: Replacement of existing extension roof and frames.

Windyridge Farm, Bay Road: Erect 1 No. dwelling and create 2 No. parking spaces.

Chantry Cottage, The Square: Erect replacement workshop (demolish existing).

Glanvilles Wooton

Land At E 368266 N 107477, Haywood Park Farm, Park Lane: Discharge of Condition No. 5 ­

Materials; following grant of Planning Permission

2/2019/0581/FUL.

Hazelbury Bryan

Ewe Barn, West Lane: Discharge of Condition Nos. 3 ­ MaterialsDwelling and 4 ­ MaterialsOutbuilding; following grant of Planning Permission

2/2019/1651/FUL.

7 Partway Lane: Erect rear conservatory.

Langton Long

Marriots Yard: Erect first floor extension to change a single storey into two storey dwelling.

Lydlinch

Fallows Rest Access To Two Fords House: Erect single storey rear extension

Marnhull

Moor Court Farm Moorside: Change of use and conversion of 1 No. agricultural barn to 1 No. dwelling.

Land North Of Kentisworth Road: Non material amendment against Planning Permission

2/2020/0042/REM to substitute plans listed on application form to allow amendments to dwelling 5 window head revised, dwelling 6 stone wall finish, dwelling 7 wind head revised, dwelling 8 rear bay window roof unified with porch and dwelling 9 north elevation revised from render to stone. Os Plot 7987 Stoneylawn: Discharge of Condition Nos. 4b, c, d, e ­ landscaping, 5 ­ Vehicle Access Crossing and 9 ­ Windows and doors; following grant of Planning Permission 2/2019/0014/VARIA.

Land North Of Kentisworth Road: Discharge of condition Nos. 2planting, 3 ­ tree protection and 4 ­ BMEP following grant of Planning Permission No. 2/2020/0042/REM.

Lovells Mill, Burton Street: Erection of single storey detached timber garage.

Little Hains, Hains Lane: Change of use of agricultural land and orchard to residential use.

Ashley Down Farm, Barn At Great Down Lane: Change of use of agricultural land and erect triple car port.

Elsamere, Musbury Lane: Erect 2.5 meter high wooden acoustic fencing along the West side boundary of Elsamere.

Melbury Abbas

Woodfrys Farm, Redmans Lane: Certificate of Lawfulness to continue using the land to station a static caravan which has been used as a permanent dwelling for in excess of ten years. Continue stationing 7 caravans, a site hut unit and a traditional shepherds hut that are used for holidays bookings throughout the year. Additionally, during holiday season (April ­ to September) to continue to have bookings for additional touring caravans on site.

Milton Abbas

31 Catherine’s Well: Erection of part two­storey and part singlestorey extension.

Land At 10 Catherines Well: Erection of 1 no. dwelling and new access.

Milton on Stour

Milton Manor, Mapperton Hill: Construct new access and drive including retrospective parking area.

Motcombe

Bittles Brook Farm, Motcombe

Road: Construct cast iron balcony and stairs to first floor north elevation to provide secondary fire escape.

Manor Farm, Turnpike Road: Remove and replace existing sash windows to North elevation and carry out associated external alterations.

Sunset Ridge, Elm Hill: Develop the land by the erection of 2 No. dwellings and garages. (Outline application with all matters reserved).

Land East Of Cashel Elm, Hill: Develop the land by the erection of up to 6 No. dwellings (2 No. detached houses, 2 No. detached bungalows and 2 No. semidetached bungalows. (Outline application to determine access).

Pimperne

Gladimere, Salisbury Road: Erection of single storey front and side extensions and raised decking.

The Lodge, Church Road: Erect 3 No. dwellings, create new vehicular and pedestrian access and 2 No. additional parking spaces (demolish existing buildings).

The Long House, Land At Salisbury Road: Develop land by the erection of up to 5 No. dwellings, form vehicular access

and parking. (Outline application to determine access).

Pulham

Land Between Pulham And Kings Stag, Main Road: Request for EIA Screening Opinion under Section 6 of the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2017 to install new water main pipes and modify the existing water mains.

Shaftesbury

Fountain Inn 2 Breach Lane: Discharge of condition No 3Hard Landscaping from Planning Permission 2/2018/0436/FUL

Land At E 386668 N 124209

Littledown: Non­material amendment to allow amendments to the approved layout to planning permission 2/2018/1418.

The Livestock Market, Christys Lane: Discharge of Condition Nos. 3 ­ Surface water scheme, 4 ­ Tree protection and 5 ­ Construction traffic mgt plan; following grant of Planning Permission 2/2019/0769/FUL.

The Livestock Market: Christys Lane: Install 1 No. 5.98 m high internally illuminated freestanding flagpole / totem sign. Install 2 No. illuminated fascia signs and a free­standing illuminated poster display case. Fairview Vehicle Services, Sherborne Causeway: Erect single storey detached mot station. 73 Coppice Street: Erect single storey rear extension.

2 Snowdrop Wynde: Erect single storey rear extension.

Bimport House 15 Bimport: Erect 1 No. dwelling.

Manor Close, St James Street: Remove 3 No. partitions (stud walls) and carry out associated internal alterations.

Land North Of A30 Salisbury Road North And South Of Mampitts Lane: Request to remove Planning Obligation No 4, Clause 13:7 of section 106 agreement dated 29 June 2011 made under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, against Planning application numbers 2/2002/0415 and 2/2002/0880. Obligation is not in line with current lending requirements and is likely to result in a reduced existing use valuation.

Shillingstone

Land At Squirrels Leap, Blandford Road: Erect 3 No. dwellings and garage and create 6 No. parking spaces (demolish part of existing dwelling to provide access) .

Shroton

Willow House, Frog Lane: Applicaton for a Certificate of Lawfulness to erect single storey rear extension.

Spetisbury

Land At E 387679 N 101384 North Farm, West End: Installation of an extension to an existing solar farm and associated development, including perimeter fencing, CCTV cameras and landscaping.

Land at Garden of Suvla Bay, High Street: Erect 1 No. dwelling and retain 3 No. parking spaces, (demolish 2 existing outbuildings).

Stalbridge

Parkside Park Grove: Discharge of Condition Nos. 2 ­ Approved Drawings ­ Prescriptive, 3Materials, 4 ­ Doors etc, 5 ­ Meter boxes etc, 6 ­ Tree retention, 7Details, 8 ­ Vehicle access construction, 9 ­ Turning and parking construction, 10 ­ Set back gates, 11 ­ Electric Gate(s); following grant of Planning Permission 2/2020/0764/FUL.

Priors Down Farm West Mill Lane

To Station Road – Lane: Notification of intention to install electronic communications apparatus (Ref: VHD839WW).

4 Anglesey Cottages, Ring Street: Erect two storey rear extension and single storey garden room. Land At Stapleford Court: Outline application for erection of 2no. dwellings with associated garage parking.

Southampton House, Shop Ring Street: Change of Use from retail to dwelling (class C3).

Stapleford House, 8 Gold Street: Erection of garden room.

Stourpaine

3 Havelins Courtyard, Hay Barn Manor Road: Erection of garden room and wall.

Stour Provost

1 & 2 Scotchey Lane Barns, Scotchey Lane: Change of use of land from agricultural to residential and insertion of mezzanine floor and windows.

Stour Row Buildings at Lower Hartgrove

Farm, Green Lane: Demolish

existing agricultural buildings. Erect 4 No. dwellings with associated carports, curtilages and access; partial conversion of barn to carport.

Stubhampton

The Elms, Furzey Down Farm: Notification of intention to erect an overhead line to provide a supply of electricity to the development at The Barn, The Elms, Stubhampton, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 8JU

Sturminster Newton

New House, Bridge Street: Nonmaterial amendment against planning application 2/2019/0630/HOUSE to allow reduction to the size of the garage to 5.6m wide x 5.5m deep. Front elevation to have 2 sets of garage doors and no windows and other alterations shown on plans.

Bramleys, Bath Road: Extend and replace roof and form first floor extensions.

Newstone House Care Home, Stourcastle: Certificate of lawfulness for the conversion of an existing lounge into an additional bedroom suite on the second floor.

Tarrant Keynston

Heron Mead, Valley Road: Erect single storey extension (demolish existing conservatory).

Tarrant Monkton

Taddlestones, Camp Lane: Demolish existing single storey extension. Erect 1 No. two storey extension and remove part of external wall on existing extension on east and south elevations to reinstate a well externally. Remove and relocate internal stud wall and carry out associated internal and external alterations.

Tarrant Rushton

Windy Corner Hogstock Lane: Request for EIA Screening Opinion under Section 6 of the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2017 for the upgrade of High Voltage (HV) conductors from 2­wire to 3­wire construction at Windy Corner, Tarrant Rushton

Thornicombe

Ranmoor, Thornicombe Hill: Certificate of Lawfulness to erect a swimming pool and associated outbuilding.

Todber

Meadow Cottage, Hunts Hill: Erect replacement shed (retrospective).

West Melbury Buddens Farm, Buddens Lane: Convert existing building to ancillary accommodation to the main house.

Contemporary village house with Bulbarrow Hill views

A contemporary village house with views towards Bulbarrow Hill has come to the market with Savills. Holmwood House is set in 1.6 acres in the village of Ibberton, within the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Having been completely remodeled in 2012 and upgraded further since, the house provides attractive, spacious accommodation over two floors. There is a reception hall, dining room with glazed screen overlooking the garden and field beyond, large kitchen with Aga, seating area and views over the garden and Bulbarrow Hill beyond, a spacious sitting room with wood burning stove, WC and boot room. There are four bedrooms, each with their own bathroom and all have outstanding views. There is

also a double garage block with home office above, gardens, stable block and a

paddock. Holmwood House is being marketed by Savills for a guide price of £1,150,000.

Farm with 43 acres on offer

For information, contact Ashley Rawlings at Savills Wimborne on 01202 856873.

An exceptionally well-equipped equestrian property with 43.63 acres in South Somerset is coming to the market with Symonds & Sampson. The extensive buildings at Home Farm at Rimpton, a former dairy farm, have been converted over the last 11 years to equestrian use, and the land divided into paddocks and larger fields. A well-proportioned, light and spacious three-bedroom bungalow has a farmhouse kitchen with Aga, garage and attractive garden, providing a comfortable home for the owners, whilst their equestrian charges enjoy the facilities within three very good steelframed livestock buildings. The level and gently sloping permanent pasture is divided into 5 main fields with 6 smaller paddocks. The Mill Stream runs along the southern boundary. Rimpton lies to the north of Sherborne.

n Guide £1,100,000, Details from Andrew Tuffin 01258 472244

Stourpaine home is a real opportunity

Symonds & Sampson in Blandford are excited to offer for sale an interesting opportunity in the popular village of Stourpaine, just to the north of Blandford. Situated in the conservation area in the heart of the village, within a stone’ s throw of the village shop, pub and church, lies Norton View. The Stour trailway runs through the village, following the River Stour from Stourhead to Christchurch. The handsome, detached threebedroom house has lovely original features, a double garage and goodsized garden. Largely unmodernised, the house offers a blank canvas for the purchaser to update. Guide: £450,000. A development site of 0.59 of an acre has outline planning permission for five two- and three-bedroom village houses has a Guide of £450,000, whilst a further 0.96-acre grassland paddock backs onto the church in the heart of the village is

for sale with a Guide of £50,000. The exciting opportunities are for sale by tender, with the closing date for tenders at noon on October 23. Further details from Stuart Bramley on 01258 452670.

National Country & Equestrian Property Specialists

Hazelbury Bryant, Dorset

Since the reopening of the property market in May, we have seen record levels of demand for property in this beautiful part of the country, as the experience of lockdown has caused many to seek an improved work-life balance.

A recent Savills survey of 1,400 registered buyers and sellers found demand is driven for the right home to suit new lifestyle expectations. Well-served villages that offer a good sense of community are particularly sought after, with more space, a garden, home working space and connectivity all at the top of the list. Demand is also high for lifestyle/amenity farms, with analysis of Savills website traffic showing the number of people searching for the terms ‘farms’, ‘estates’ and ‘rural’ as much as 50 per cent above pre-lockdown levels.

Property in the towns, villages and picturesque countryside of Dorset, Wiltshire and Somerset are well placed to meet this demand, so it is no surprise a record number of buyers from both the local area and further afield are registering their interest with us.

As we head into the autumn, we anticipate seeing more potential buyers making their rural dreams a reality. Here are some examples of recent sales, along with farms and houses that are currently on the market.

If you would like to discuss the market or have any questions about your property, please get in touch and we would be delighted to help.

Iwerne

Beautifully presented village house of great character set in stunning gardens.

FOR

Most handsome listed Grade II Italianate villa close to the Jurassic coast.

SOLD

Donhead St. Mary, Dorset

OIEO £1.5 million

Savills Wimborne 01202 856800 wimborne@savills.com

Horsington, Somerset £1.2 million SALE

A medieval home with Georgian additions and a pretty walled garden, well placed in a popular village.

David Cross Head of Farm Agency 01722 426820

dcross@savills.com

Ashley Rawlings Head of Residential Wimborne 01202 856800

ashley.rawlings@savills.com

vv3 RURL Salisbury Blackmore Vale Advertorial 200x287mm 180920.indd All Pages

We are pleased to welcome back the Blackmore Vale Magazine, which is such a well-loved and valued local publication.

Evercreech, Somerset

249 acres | £3.6 million

A picturesque, elevated residential farm with panoramic views in a highly sought after location.

Lytchett Matravers, Dorset 360 acres | £5.5 million

An exceptional ring-fenced farm with a range of farm buildings.

Peasedown St. John, Somerset

12.56 acres | £1.5 milion

An established poultry farm near Bath.

FOR SALE

Southbrook, Dorset

421 acres | £4.75 million

An attractive residential and well equipped farm.

FOR SALE

Rockbourne, Hampshire

260 acres | £4 million

A compact sporting estate with a significant family home.

UNDER OFFFER

Chilworthy, Somerset

49.37 acres | £2.425 million

A picturesque residential farm in the heart of Somerset.

AUCTION 23OCTOBER

DORSET DEVON HAMPSHIRE SOMERSET WILTSHIRE LONDON

TOLET

Cheselbourne Guide £200,000

A Grade II Listed 3 bedroom village cottage with tremendous potential to extend and improve STPP. (EPC=exempt).

Dorchester 01305 261008

Sherborne Guide £550,000

A beautifully presented 3 bedroom house with garden and car port, within an over 50’s development close to the town. EPC=C.

Sherborne 01935 814488

AUCTION 23OCTOBER

Compton Pauncefoot Guide £365,000

A well presented 3 bedroom cottage, with modern décor and an enclosed rear garden, situated in this picturesque village. EPC=D.

Sherborne 01935 814488

Pimperne

A pair of cottages for renovation and a parcel of land of approx. 0.15 acres. For sale as separate lots EPC’s=F.

Blandford 01258 452670

West Stour £1700 pcm

A 5 bedroom refurbished Grade II Listed farmhouse with outbuilding, garage and garden, and far reaching views. EPC=E.

Blandford 01258 474265

Alweston Guide £215,000

A character 2 bedroom cottage with generous gardens, situated in a peaceful village with far­reaching views. EPC=D.

Sherborne 01935 814488

Hartgrove Guide £450,000

A generous 4 bedroom property in a sought after hamlet location, fabulous countryside views and off road parking. EPC=C.

Sturminster 01258 473766

South Barrow Guide £439,950

A well­presented 3 bedroom barn conversion with excellent sized gardens, off road parking and far reaching views. EPC=E.

Sherborne 01935 814488

TOLET

Motcombe £995 pcm

A recently redecorated 2 double bedroom semi­detached cottage with new carpets throughout and a large garden EPC=E.

Blandford 01258 452670

QUALIFIED EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONAL TENDER 23OCTOBER

Stourpaine

Lot 1 ­ 3 bedroom period house (EPC=E), double garage. Guide £450,000.

Lot 2 ­ 0.59 acre site with planning permission for 5 units. Price £450,000. Lot 3 ­ 0.96 acre plot of land. Guide £50,000.

Blandford 01258 452670

Winterborne Stickland Guide £725,000

A beautiful 3 bedroom thatched cottage, tastefully blending character with contemporary, with mature gardens and double garage. EPC=D.

Blandford 01258 452670

Hartgrove Guide £780,000

A charming 3 bedroom Grade II listed farmhouse with gardens and outbuildings in a lovely rural position with countryside views. Additional land by negotiation. EPC=Exempt.

Sturminster 01258 473766

SALES LETTINGS AUCTIONS

Trent Guide £1,000,000

A stunning Grade II Listed 5 bedroom property in 0.40 acres, which has undergone substantial renovation to create a spacious and light family home full of character. EPC=Exempt.

Sherborne 01935 814488

DORSET DEVON HAMPSHIRE SOMERSET WILTSHIRE LONDON

Auction 23 October 2020

Marston Magna Guide £225,000

A parcel of productive arable land extending to 27.92 acres with road access. EPC=E.

Yeovil 01258 472244

Cheselbourne Guide £15,000

0.58 acres of gently sloping pasture land with road access and a stream.

Sherborne 01935 814488

Marston Magna Guide £475,000

A former dairy farm with a 5 bedroom bungalow (AOC, EPC=F), range of farm buildings and 26.65 acres of pasture land. Yeovil 01935 423526

Thursday 1 October at 10.30am

HIGHER LOPSHILL FARM, ALDERHOLT, FORDINGBRIDGE, SP6 3ED

Dispersal Sale of Classic & Modern Ford Tractors, New Holland Clayson Combine, Digger, Land Rover Defender 90 & Farm Machinery.

On behalf of W R Zebedee & Son (Auctioneers Selling the Farm)

Saturday 3 October at 10.00am

RYLANDS FARM, BOYSHILL, HOLNEST, SHERBORNE, DT9 5PS

Charity Auction of 10 Vintage & Classic Tractors, Farm & Classic Machinery, Bygones & Miscellaneous.

On behalf of Future Roots Care Farm and other vendors

Thursday 8 October at 10.30am

BRIDGE FARM, MIDLE CHINNOCK, SOMERSET, TA18 7PN

Dispersal Sale of John Deere 6150R (64) with JD Loader, John Deere 6620 (04), Merlo P40.7 Telehandler, (11), JCB 3CX Turbo 4x4 Digger (87), Mitsubushi L200 (88), Amazone UF1501 24m Sprayer, Moore UniDrill 400 Direct Drill, Richard Western SF14 HS Silage Trailer, Sumo 2.5m Trio, Honda 500cc ATV, Arable & Grassland Machinery.

Child Okeford Guide £100,000

10.60 acres of level pasture land in a popular village. Sturminster 01258 473766

01935 382909

On behalf of R J Bailey (Having Sold the Farm)

Saturday 10 October

Machinery 10.30am, Cattle 12.00 Noon

LONGTHORNS FARM, WAREHAM, DORSET, BH20 6HH

Dispersal Sale of 2012 Claas Arion 540 with Quicke Q56 Loader, 1975 Ford 4000 & Grassland Machinery inc. 2015 Carre 3m Grassland Rejuvenator. Followed by Sale of 18 Pedigree Beef Shorthorn Cows & Calves & 1 Bull.

On behalf of Longthorns Farm Ltd (Change of Farming Policy)

Saturday 17 October

NORTH CADBURY, SOMERSET

Dispersal Sale of 3 Tractors, JCB Hydro Digger, Farm Machinery, Garage, Workshop & Building Equipment, Bygones, etc.

Rimpton

QUALIFIED EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONAL

43.64 acres

An excellent former livestock farm on the edge of a popular and accessible village with outstanding equestrian facilities. A spacious bungalow (subject to an equestrian tie), 2 barns, an indoor arena and level pasture land.

Guide £1,100,000 Andrew Tuffin 01258

472244

Piddletrenthide

90.44 acres

Productive loam over chalk land currently in clover leys, permanent pasture and arable stubble. Small range of redundant dairy buildings and mains water.

Lot 1 – 87 acres, Lot 2 – 3.4 acres.

Guide £750,000 Lucy Carnell 01935

382901

Semley

48.14 acres

Productive pasture land and grass leys with a strip of broadleaf woodland and a stream located on the edge of the Vale of Wardour.

Lot 1 – 38 acres, Lot 2 – 10 acres.

Guide £400,000 Andrew Tuffin 01258

472244

Stour Provost

33.19 acres

33.19 acres (13.43 hectares) of productive arable land in grass/clover leys in a quite yet accessible location. Good road frontage, small stream and mains water.

Guide £375,000 Andrew Tuffin 01258

472244

Farming Nothing more rewarding than a barn full of hay

THE FIELD with Tria Stebbings

Autumn is fast approaching. This year the hedgerows have been crammed full of different berries. Is this nature’s way of healing and restoring post covid ?

Blackberries so huge that they break under their own pressure and more sloes than usual. Jam season has arrived! Time is being spent preparing for winter – there is of course nothing better than a barn full of freshly-mown meadow hay, and nothing more rewarding for a farmer than having it stashed away

maturing, ready to keep the flock fed over winter. This year we cut in July. We spent anxious days watching the weather. The rows of cut hay dry in the sun and are turned or “tedded” at least once a day to ensure no damp green tufts get baled.If it rains on the rows the crop will be ruined. When the hay is dry, usually after three days, and after the dew has dried, it is baled and taken away to be stored. Our sheep became fussy eaters a few years back and have become selective feeders, preferring our own fresh meadow hay to boughtin bales. The sheep are currently grazing on good grass to prepare them for next

spring’s lambing, a term known as “flushing”, boosting their nutrition and giving the ewes a good chance to be caught by the ram. The swallows are having a feeding frenzy, still here, but preparing for their epic sixweek flight back to Africa, approximately 8,000 miles and travelling 200 miles a day. Time to stand back, smell that hay and watch the last of the swallows.

Hi, the BVM is back and so am I!

The last few months have been a challenge for all, you don’t need me to tell you that. However, the variations of challenges are many and I count myself lucky that we are all safe and well and whilst in lockdown we were in such a lovely part of the world – it made a lot of difference.

Our staff on the farm and in the butchery and shop have been wonderful, keeping everything going and responding to the increased orders both at the shop and online.

Its good that the ‘Kitchen’ café is now back open and doing well, with all the procedures in place. It is very popular, as is the Trading Barn, with ever-changing

Delivering calf in twisted uterus shows

I have been a farm animal vet since 2009 and have been lucky enough to live and work in beautiful Dorset. Having settled in the area, with my farmer husband and menagerie of pets, I was welcomed as part of the team at Friars Moor Livestock Health two-and-a-half years ago, and Dorset now truly feels like home.

In my search for a dense cattle and sheep population, I was lucky enough to not only find a job in a flourishing farming area but was more fortunate to be welcomed into the local farming community too. One of the most amazing things about the job, that they do not teach you at vet school, is the sense of belonging working in this industry. Our clients are some of the most friendly,

By Alice Miller Vet at Friars Moore

supportive, and hard-working people I have ever met. It is this comradery that makes those middle of the night or early morning callouts all the easier to bear.

The farming calendar is structured around the seasons so our workload becomes dominated by certain diseases and emergencies due to either the environmental conditions or the planned farming activities at that time.

As we approach autumn certain diseases need to be considered. Planning is key in preventing these problems. Annual health and performance reviews with our clients identify when and why these issues arise and

how we can prevent them. As the nights get colder and temperatures and humidity levels continue to fluctuate in the day, we often see calf pneumonia. Environmental stresses reduce the animal’s natural resilience and they are more likely to succumb to disease. Calves will receive vaccinations to improve their immunity and reduce the risk of pneumonia at this time. Preventative medicine helps avoid ill health and reduces the use of antibiotics. In terms of planned, increased farming activity, many farmers will either plan for their cows to give birth in the spring or autumn. Autumn calving is already in full swing and with the rise in calf births, the chances of being called to a problem calving is also more likely.

Today, I got called to see a cow who could not deliver her calf because her uterus had twisted. This was likely due to the excessive calf movements inside, and this physical activity meant the uterus had twisted on itself, presenting an upside-down calf and an impaired opening to the birth passage. Upon internal examination I could feel the tort bands of tissue corkscrewing in an anticlockwise direction. The uterus had to be untwisted. I directed the farmer to gently lean into the cow’s abdomen and push. This external pressure creates an internal swinging motion and with this momentum I was able to guide the movement of the calf, flipping it in a clockwise direction, back into the correct position. A calf that is coming

stock, it’s an interesting place to spend some time. The summer weather has been relatively kind to our clay farm. We had good quality, but poor yield first and second cuts of grass silage, but have made up for it in the third cut. The grazing grass for the dairy gave up for a couple of weeks and we had to supplement with silage. The youngstock have grown extremely well this summer and have enjoyed the pastures. We did lose two or three large limbs from mature oaks. Jen, our daughter in law heard a crack in the field behind the farmhouse and looked up to see a large limb break and fall to the ground –don’t really know why but it wasn’t the only one. The turkeys and geese are all well established and now big

enough to free range without becoming dinner for rooks, crows and buzzards! We are amazed at how many Christmas orders are already in the order book.

Paul and I took the caravan out last week. We went to Cornwall and parked in a field on a Caravan Club fivevan site. We were the only ones there, it was bliss. We were only a 10-minute walk from the coast path. We walked a lot, cycled the camel trail, visited a couple of relations and enjoyed watching wild life. One morning I was watching five magpies playing around a pile of wood and saw what turned out to be a stoat. I think they were goading each other as first the magpies flitted about, just getting out of reach of the stoat, then the stoat would

rush about, tumbling over and over trying to reach a magpie, then dash for cover into the wood heap, only to repeat it all over again. This routine carried on for well over 20 minutes. Neither became breakfast for the other.

The first signs of autumn are evident in the hedge rows which are brim full of berries, nuts and seeds, I wonder if this is a sign of a hard winter?

The autumn calving will soon be underway and the men are busy making sure everything is ready.

Maize harvesting is a big, big event on the farm. It represents a big part of the cattle’s winter ration, so a good mature crop both in yield and quality makes a huge difference. Then we pray for dry days to harvest without difficulties in the

It’s Ruth Kimber’s Farmer’s Diary success of working together

fields and to minimise the mud on the road problems. Luckily the weather was good, the crop was ready and the contractors were available. All now safely in the clamp. We planted a wildlife patch designed particularly for firstly the bees and insects, then the birds. It was a great success and we hope to increase the area next year. Kimbers’ Farm Shop, The Kitchen Café, Somerset Trading Barn is sited on the B3081 between Bruton and Wincanton, on the same stretch of road as Wincanton Racecourse and Otter Nursery.

Opening Times: Tuesdays to Saturdays, 9.30am-5pm.

Pedigree hereford bulls, 1520 months old. Cows with calves at foot also available. Woodclose herd, Penselwood. 01747 841233 forward can only be delivered if both the head and the legs are forward, in a diving position. With gentle traction and lots of lubrication, the gentle passage of the live female calf was achieved. I never tire of the feeling of achievement when you safely deliver a healthy new-born animal, and it still leaves me in awe, that within moments of taking their first breath, they are quickly making ungainly advances to stand.

The farmer was kindly very quick to thank and congratulate me, but I really could not have done it without his help. It is this continual communication, teamwork and support that really makes the difference between success or not. It is incredibly satisfying to know we are working alongside farmers as part of their team, and tshare in these mutual successes.

Collection points for livestock medicines and supplies at Sherborne, Sturminster Newton, Blandford and Shaftesbury

Please call the office on 01258 472314

Ask the vet with

How do I get my dog to lose weight?

In an otherwise healthy dog weight gain is, in its simplest terms, due to calorie intake exceeding calories burned. In order to lose weight, calorie intake needs to be reduced and, where possible, exercise increased.

There are various weight loss diets available which are either higher in fibre than ‘normal’ foods to bulk up the food without extra calories, or higher in protein which make your dog feel fuller quicker. The amounts fed are calculated to encourage slow but steady weight loss.

If your dog will tolerate it (and won’t start stealing food to compensate!) you can simply feed less of their normal

food – measuring out the right amount each day helps feed consistent amounts. Often stopping treats is the most effective way to encourage weight loss. But we love our dogs and enjoy the interaction that giving treats provides so stopping them can be difficult. The alternative to stopping them is to allow for them in your dog’s daily ration and feed less at their normal meal times. The act of receiving a treat is what your dog enjoys so giving one instead of 3 or lower calorie treats can be just as enjoyable but without the extra calories. It’s also worth remembering that your dog may be a lot smaller than you – so in terms of relative food intake one digestive biscuit at morning

elevenses for your 10kg terrier is the equivalent of you eating 6-8 biscuits!

Most vets will provide advice on weight loss. Regular weighing allows you to monitor progress and nurse weight clinics can help you alter the diet plan according to effect. How important is it to maintain a healthy weight

A dog which is overweight will often find exercising more difficult because they get out of breath more quickly or get pain in their joints due to the excess weight. Most dogs will become more active as they reach their target weight because it is easier for them to run around.

Dogs with joint issues, particularly older dogs, also benefit

from being kept slim because reduced weight puts less stress on their legs and research suggests that fat itself is inflammatory which can increase the pain from arthritis. Being overweight can also increase breathing problems –fat laid down around the throat can put pressure on airways, causing them to become narrowed. Being overweight also increases the work the heart has to do to pump blood around the extra body tissue present.

Overall a dog which is a healthy weight is likely to feel better, enjoy exercising more and live a longer, more active life.

Email your questions for Lynn to newsdesk@ blackmorevale.net

art, con, continent, continental, ear, earn, inn, lain, near, nine, nines, nit, ran, sea, sear, sent, tin, tine, tines, tint, transcontinental

Vet Lynn Broom

New manager for Stur Newton FC

Sturminster Newton FC has acted quickly to appoint a new manager after Dall Fletcher resigned last week. Ex-Gillingham manager Nick Squires has taken over as first team manager, a move welcomed by the club and supporters.

A statement from The Cherries on social media read: “The club feels that this is really exciting times for the club, and we believe Nick has the ability and knowledge to

take our club to the next level.” A comment left on the club’s Facebook page added: “Fantastic appointment! Good guy with huge knowledge of the game. He’s a winner, wears his heart on his sleeve, puts everything into it and will expect it reciprocated from his players!”

Fletcher quit just two days after The Cherries recorded their first win of the season, a thrilling 3-2 win away to Wareham Rangers.

Haydn scoops Man of the Match

Western League Division

One Sherborne Town 2

Oldland Abbotonians 1

Haydn Hodges’ goal in the last minute of a tense match secured him Man of the Match and Sherborne their first win of the season, writes Steve Keenan. The two sides went in at halftime level pegging on 1-1 and the tension rose, with a coach from both sides shown a yellow card for a touchline dispute as both teams kept pressing for the winner.

And it was substitute Hodges who came on to be the hero, having only been passed fit after treatment in midweek. A cross was flicked past the keeper and the ball dribbled to the far corner and over the line.

Oldland had gone ahead after 15 minutes but The Zebras came back strongly, with centre forward Alex Murphy equalising five minutes before half-time. After successive 2-0 defeats in their opening two games, the victory was a relief for manager Wayne Jerome.

Royals snatch points despite being reduced to 10 men!

Dorset Premier League Blandford 2

Dorchester Sports 1

The Royals knew they were in for a difficult game and so it proved for the first 25 minutes, being camped inside their own half for long

periods. It was 0-0 at the break but space started to open up with chances for both sides. Just as the Royals were starting to get on top, Elliot Manson dived in with a reckless challenge and was sent off on 55 minutes.

And on the hour, the visitors went ahead with a back post header. It was now that Taylor Pike grabbed the game by the scruff of the neck and became a constant threat, driving past two players and shooting low and hard into

the bottom corner with 10 minutes to go. The young winger wasn’t finished and with five minutes to go, he skipped passed the full back and his shot was deflected past a defender and into the net for the winner.

Haydn Hodges receives his Man of the Match award from mascot Katie Isaacs

Champagne for MoM Hawkins

Dorset Premier League

Gillingham Town 2

Sherborne Reserves 1

The Gills saw off a late comeback from the visitors to hold on for their first victory of the season.

After last week’s opening game 0-1 setback, Town were off to a flier with two goals in the first 21 minutes.

Aaron Rodriguez scored the team’s first goal of the season after just two minutes, then set up Ryan Down to put Gillingham 2-0 up. The team squandered several

chances to finish off the game before Sherborne scored from a corner on 75 minutes. It set up a tense finish, with Jack Dicker foiled when his header was tipped over the bar.

The result was the first setback for Sherborne this season, having won their opening two games.

MotM: Dan Hawkins – a solid performance showing great defensive duties and, when required, attacking with precision deliveries into the opposition’s box.

Salisbury held at home by Hendon

Southern League Premier Salisbury FC 2 Hendon 2

Salisbury FC started their 20/21 league campaign with a home match versus Hendon. The 19/20 season was, of course, abandoned in the middle of March but the “Whites” had played a total of 10 friendly matches in preparation for their return to competitive action last Saturday.

Watched by a crowd of 524, the home side took the lead within the first minute, when Lewis Benson picked up a loose ball in midfield and played it wide to Dominic Jefferies. He got the better of his marker and pulled the ball back from the byeline into Marvin Brooks who thumped

the ball into the roof of the visitors’ net: 1-0 to the Whites. Salisbury were generally in control of the game but in the 20th minute, Hendon’s Sam Corcoran won the ball in the centre circle, advanced a few yards and seeing the home keeper some distance off his line, struck a shot from half way which went over the back-pedalling Lian Armstrong…1-1.

After the break, there were a few half chances at both ends until in the 60th minute the Whites regained the lead. Lewis Benson took one of his trademark in-swinging corners and an unfortunate Hendon defender managed to get a touch which only succeeded in diverting the ball into his own net…2-1. The home side were in the

ascendency but failed to add to their tally. Then on 71 minutes, a mix up between the home keeper and a defender when trying to deal with a bouncing ball on the edge of the penalty area, allowed Hendon’s Liam Brooks to tap the ball home for the equaliser…2-2. In the remaining time the away side looked the more likely to take the full three points and both sides had opportunities to win the game. But neither team could find the net again and both had to settle for one point apiece.

A disappointing start to the new season for the Whites in many ways, especially after taking that early lead but their opponents will probably feel that they also deserved

Shaftesbury Reserves slip to harsh third defeat in a row

Merley Cobham Sports 2

Shaftesbury Town Reserves 1

After two impressive away wins against Dorset Premier League title rivals, Merley

went into the game full of confidence, while Shaftesbury looked to kickstart their season after losing the first two games. After a slow first

half, Merley looked the better team but Shaftesbury took the lead – only for Asa Phillips to score two quick goals to win the game for Merley.

something out of the game. MotM: Marvin Brooks. Next up for the Whites is a journey on Saturday to Kidlington in Oxfordshire for an FA Cup tie. No replays at this stage and the winner will be decided on the day. Both clubs will receive a respectable amount of money from the Prize Fund but the FA have been obliged to lower payments by 50 per cent this year due to reduced income coming into their coffers.

Gillingham Man of the Match Dan Hawkins receives his award from manager Paul Down

Youngsters crash out of three cups

FA Vase Shaftesbury 0 Badshot Lea 4

With Shaftesbury now being knocked out of all three cup competitions in September, it’s fair to say that the club can now concentrate on the Wessex Premier League, writes

Steve Keenan

The team went down meekly to Surrey-based Badshot in the FA Vase, with the visitors running in three second-half goals. All were soft, with only the first half goal showing any class, a tap-in when the ball was pulled back after excellent work down the wing.

But with several changes to the squad, and an extremely young team ending the match, manager Danny Holmes is clearly working out his best team having only joined Shaftesbury weeks ago with assistant manager, David Walsh.

Four of the Shaftesbury team last Saturday were teenagers, and three were only playing

their second game. Keeper Paul Woods had joined the middle of the previous week and was substituted for Reece Mitchell at half-time. The half started badly for Mitchell, the ball finding the net after he went to punch the ball clear but missed it completely. The third goal was from a scramble in the box, and the fourth came when the ball hit a post before looping over the keeper and spinning in off the other post. The average age of the team was only 23 and they found it hard going against a strong, competitive side. Shaftesbury had just one shot on target, an effort from Aaron Lene-Leney in the first half, and a late chance when a Badshot defender sliced the ball just over the bar.

But the Shaftesbury management were not downhearted, welcoming the chance to give youngsters a run-out alongside experienced players, including Jordan Matthews and captain Sean

Colohan, who had a good game at centre-half. Former AFC Bournemouth player

Carl Pettefer also showed his class in defensive midfield, still sprightly at 39. Walsh told The New Blackmore Vale: “The story is that we have a lot of young players at the club and we want to give them opportunities. They need experience but are being

used a lot, so we also want to give them a break.” Having won one of three league games, Shaftesbury’s next match is away to highflying Blackfield & Langley on Saturday, and no doubt there will be more rotations as management look to work out their ideal starting XI. But Walsh is excited: “It’s good to come to a club with a lot of young players.”

Sports clubs back in business but left

So many aspects of our lives have been disrupted over the past six months and sport haas suffered along with everything else. Sports grounds of all sorts, swimming pools and gyms were closed.

The professional football and rugby seasons were eventually extended to enable the league and cup winners to get the rewards for a marathon effort which eventually lasted 12 months or more.

Of course, spectators were not allowed and personally, even as an avid football and rugby union fan, watching a game on TV without the usual antics

By David Phillips Former chairman at Salisbury FC

of a match day crowd is something I can take or leave.

As far as cricket is concerned, the grass roots clubs were limited to friendlies which took place over a period of just a couple of months. There was some County and International cricket to view but with limited numbers only being allowed to attend some County matches.

The International encounters between England and Pakistan and Australia weren’t quite the

same without spectators but the players did their best to serve up some very exciting stuff for those who were watching on screen.

As a regular (but very mediocre) golfer myself, I was really glad that golf was one of the first activities to be given the green light to help us golfers escape the misery of lockdown.

It wasn’t long before the various Professional Tours were up and running in the USA and Europe.

I have to admit that I much prefer the relative peace of a golf course without spectators.

No more inane shouts of “get in the hole” or drunken idiots on a corporate jolly screaming out “mashed potato” whenever they fancied.

I’m not sure what the competitors prefer but I suspect that a number of the experienced pros actually thrive in a high-octane atmosphere created by a bustling and noisy crowd. It will be interesting to see how well some of the younger brigade perform in a calmer, less intimidating environment. Their chance to shine perhaps when the pressure is much less intense?

Shaftesbury keeper Reece Mitchell is impeded as a corner is swung into the box

counting the costs of the coronavirus

Tennis players have been able to take to the courts again and the Professional Tour is underway. I did miss Wimbledon but imagine the condition of the grass courts by 2021.

So what of the future?

There is little doubt that many professional and semiprofessional clubs need the income from match days and will not survive too much longer unless the current situation changes very soon. In addition, much needed advertising and sponsorship revenue is going to be difficult to maintain. There will,

undoubtedly, be a tightening of belts with companies looking carefully at the relevant budgets for the year ahead.

Let’s hope that at the local grass roots level, sponsors and advertisers will take a less commercial view and will be there to support their local clubs through these difficult times.

It will be interesting to see what happens to the “big boys” of the English Premier League.

The top clubs don’t seem to have any issues in finding the cash for mind-blowing

transfer fees and wages. There are financial rules in place which are supposed to “level the playing field” but it is rare to see the lessfashionable clubs break the stranglehold. Well done to Leicester City just a few seasons ago!

The bulk of the income for most if not all, of the clubs in the Premier League comes from the selling of broadcasting rights. The League have marketed themselves brilliantly and have done some incredible deals with the TV companies. Will this situation prevail in

the year or years ahead?

Will those TV companies feel they can continue to recoup their costs from subscription payers and advertisers or will the the possible long term absence of spectators actually strengthen the Premier League’s negotiating hand?

On behalf of all the sports clubs in our region, can I ask that you lend them your support whenever possible. There is nothing better than watching live sport so check out when your local side is playing next and go along and cheer them on…...assuming you are permitted to cheer!!