The New Blackmore Vale Magazine - Issue 84 by The Blackmore Vale Limited

FREE EVERY FORTNIGHT

Edition 84

Friday, December 8, 2023

The New Blackmore Vale www.blackmorevale.net

Kate Adie takes the helm at Dorset CPRE Page 14

THINK YOU’VE

MISSED THE BOAT?

£ £ ££££

££ £

£ £ ££ £ ££ £ £ ££

Musicians raise thousands for Big Yellow Bus Garden Project Page 20

ROYAL SEAL OF APPROVALTHINK AGAIN! £

£ £ £££ ££

£ £ £ ££ £

GOVERNMENT INCENTIVES

HRH Princess Anne hands out award for volunteers’ Vale dancers take GREEN GOVERNMENT INCENTIVES STILL AVAILABLE home trophies 9 skills and training in ancient technologies PageDomestic Solar at Blackpool

THINK YOU’VE

Installation costs falling again this year has meant a huge comeback for PV. competition

MISSED £ £Thinking Government incentives THE BOAT?

££ ££ £££££ £ ££

£ £ £ £££you’ve

£ £ £ ££ £ £ £ £ £ £ £

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GOVERNMENT INC£ENTIVES GOVERNMENT INCENTIVES £ £ ££

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£ £ ££ £ ££££ £ £ £

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GOVERNMENT INCENTIVES

£££ £ ££££££

the boat? No! £ £

Page 28

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New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

What’s inside this issue… Announcements Antiques & Collectables Arts & Entertainment Church Equestrian Events Farming Field & Stream Food & Drink Health & Wellbeing Home & Garden

74-76 46-48 38-39 40 88 33-36 85-88 84 64-66 67-70 49-55

Items For Sale Letters Local Services Motoring Pets Politics Property Property To Let Puzzles Recruitment Sport

90 37 56-63 71-72 82-83 41-43 91-95 89 44-45 77-79 80-81

Super cub Alexander Fulcher scoops top award in scouting Page 5

EDITORIAL Paul Jones - Editor in Chief We love hearing your news and views. Get in touch with us by emailing newsdesk@blackmorevale.net or calling 01963 400186

Lloyd Armishaw Publisher newsdesk@blackmorevale.net 01963 400186

Kye Harman Sports Editor sports@blackmorevale.net 01963 400186

Lorraine Drake Distributor lorraine_drake@icloud.com 07850 529937

ADVERTISING Debi Thorne Sales Director Debi.thorne@blackmorevale.net 07714 289409

Lynsey Swaine Account Manager lynsey.swaine@blackmorevale.net 07714 289416

Jane Toomer Senior Account Manager Jane.toomer@blackmorevale.net 07714 289411

Rachelle Cooper Classified Adverts adverts@blackmorevale.net 01963 400186

ADDRESS: 3 Alfred's Way, Wincanton, Somerset, BA9 9RU

ONLINE : www.blackmorevale.net

Gillshed’s carpenters celebrate the installation of their bat boxes Page 25

Pupils at Shaftesbury Primary get stuck in to tree planting mission Page 28

CLASSIFIED ADVERTS: adverts@blackmorevale.net - 01963 400186 The New

Blackmore Vale

TURN TO PAGE 22 FOR OUR CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR DEADLINES

Magazine

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

News

blackmorevale.net

Food, farming and a lot of fun RETIRED dairy farmer Dave Selby has spent most of his life on the land around Shaftesbury. With his wife Jacky, he worked his way up to a 100-cow dairy, eventually converting to beef cattle. It’s fair to say he’s got a lot of knowledge about food production here in Dorset. It was this experience that

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New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

News

blackmorevale.net

Rural history in technicolour

by Lorraine Gibson WITH its haystack and stunning shire horses, there’s a definite air of Constable about this evocative old colour photograph, courtesy of Peter Cutler who dates it to 1937. So detailed is this early and rare coloured-film image of men working to right a hay slide – an occasional occurrence at the time – from a horse-drawn cart on a country lane in Blandford, one can almost smell the warm hay and the horse manure on the notably decent road surface. Look closely and you’ll see a quick-thinking farmer pitch-forking for what he’s worth at the top of what’s remains of the stack on the cart. If you have any information or related comments on this wonderful moment in time, we’d like to hear from you at newsdesk@blackmorevale.net.

Stur sleep out

STURMINSTER Newton youngsters slept rough to help homeless people in Dorset – raising more than £1,800. A group of 16 students and four staff members from Sturminster Sixth Form slept in the school grounds to raise funds for the YMCA, to aid

efforts to combat youth homelessness in the county. This is the first time the school has run the event and raised £1,850. Anyone interested in supporting the cause can still contribute at tiny.cc/ stursleepeasy.

Housing crisis

Latest report from CPRE shows impact of rising house prices on families and young people across Dorset and the South West THE South West is worst affected by an acute shortage of genuinely affordable and social housing, says the Campaign to Protect Rural England. Families are being driven out of the countryside by record house prices relative to wages, and a shortage of genuinely affordable homes, made worse by an increase in second homes and short-term lets, says the countryside charity. Communities and the countryside risk being drained of skills, economic activity and vital public services. The new report, Unravelling a crisis: the state of rural affordable housing in England, reveals the impact of an overlooked rural housing crisis and shows how the next government can increase the supply of affordable homes. Rupert Hardy, chair North Dorset CPRE said: “This is the real housing crisis. Action is needed, nationally and locally, to address this shortage and provide the truly affordable housing Dorset needs for a better future for local people.” The report reveals that rural house prices increased at almost twice the rate of those in urban areas in the five years to 2022. While the average cost of a home jumped 29% to £419,000, rural earnings increased by just 19% to an average of £25,600. Rural homelessness is up 40% since 2018. 300,000 people are waiting for social housing in rural England, a backlog that would take 89 years to clear at current rates of construction. Rupert Hardy said: “CPRE’s latest report underlines the scale of this crisis and suggests practical solutions. Housing problems are a key factor in domestic violence and the abuse of vulnerable adults, which have increased in Dorset and BCP, as recent rise in safeguarding concerns data show. Dorset CPRE welcomes recent calls (for example by the Chief Medical Officer, Professor Sir Chris Whitty), for new planning and housing policies which do more to meet local housing needs of families and of young and older people, and key workers such as carers.” Peter Neal, a Dorset CPRE vice-president and a director of the Sherborne CLT said: “Dorset CPRE welcomes the work of Community Land Trusts (CLTs) to develop affordable homes, in partnership with local communities and landowners. The Sherborne Community Land Trust is currently looking at several sites for the development of social housing for local people with a connection to the town. It is hoped that consultation on one of these sites will take place in the early part of next year.” More than 300,000 people are on waiting lists for social rented housing in rural England. At the current rate of construction, it would take 89 years for them all to be offered a home. The report contains a list of recommendations, including: • Ensure the term ‘affordable housing’ is redefined to directly link to average local incomes. • Increase the minimum amount of genuinely affordable housing required by national planning policy. • Support local communities to deliver small-scale developments of genuinely affordable housing and make it easier for councils to purchase land at a reasonable price. • Introduce new powers for local authorities to levy additional council tax on second homes. • Extend restrictions on the resale of ‘affordable housing’ to all parishes with fewer than 3,000 inhabitants.

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023 blackmorevale.net

While shepherds watch their flocks… CERNE Sheep Group, which supports, educates and entertains about 30 local shepherds (with flocks large and small), will be tucking into its annual Christmas supper on Monday, December 11 (7.30pm) at the Fox at Ansty (DT2 7PN). Barry Graham, chairman of Dorset Rare Breeds Survival Trust, will be updating the group on the charity’s work. There will be a raffle, for which the group would appreciate any donations. The meal costs £4 members/£14 non-members. Please book in advance by calling 01258 459599. Looking to the new year, the group has two meetings scheduled – Monday, January 8, and Monday, February 12, both 7.30pm at The Fox at Ansty. New members are always welcome. The Group’s subscriptions are not unreasonable, and a nominal fee is charged for a one-off individual visit. For more information contact Jill Hole by phone (01929 459450) or email (jill_ hole@outlook.com).

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Super cub!

Chief Scout’s top award goes to one-of-a-kind cub CONGRATULATIONS to Alexander Fulcher, who has received the Chief Scout’s Silver Award, the highest award a cub can earn. Alexander is the only cub in Sturminster Newton to have received the award, which is given to cubs who have earned six activity or staged activity badges, as well as all seven challenge awards. The Chief Scout’s Silver Award recognises youngsters who have given new things a go, played their part, and stuck it out, even when the going got tough. “It’s a really big achievement, and he is rightly proud of himself,” said Alexander’s dad, David. “Hopefully he’s the first of many cubs at Sturminster Newton to receive the award. It would be great to see more children join the local beavers/cubs/scouts.” Anyone interested in joining the cubs in Sturminster Newton should email sturminsterscouts@gmail.com.

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New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

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Two jailed over thefts of farm GPS equipment TWO men have been jailed after a series of high-value farm GPS thefts. Tomas Staukauskas, 32, of Beverley Road, Hull, and Mantas Palionis, 31, of Abbey Street, Hull, were jailed for four years and three years respectively at Hull Crown Court on Tuesday, November 21. Both pleaded guilty at an earlier court appearance to handling stolen goods and going equipped for theft. The convictions came after an investigation led by Humberside Police, and assisted by the Dorset Rural Crime Team, after two devices were found to have been stolen from West Dorset. The pair were arrested after police identified a car which had been linked to multiple high-value thefts. Following an on-foot chase the males were arrested and a search of the car conducted. A substantial amount of farming GPS devices were found. They were wrapped in tin foil to prevent the signals being detected.

Following further searches additional GPS systems were found. Officer in the case Andrew Green, from Humberside Criminal Investigation Department, said: “Palionis and Staukauskas are calculated criminals, who carefully planned ways to try and evade arrest and conceal their offending”. Earlier this year, insurer NFU Mutual warned of a rising number of GPS thefts from farms. The firm said the cost of thefts in the first quarter of 2023 doubled when compared to the same period last year, exceeding £500,000. Bob Henderson, who leads NFU Mutual’s Agricultural Engineering Field Team, said: “The scale of GPS theft we’re currently seeing makes it vital that farmers take all possible steps to protect their GPS equipment by removing it from tractors, combines and other machines and locking it up securely when not in use.” Superintendent Andrew Huddleston, who leads the National Rural Crime Unit, urged farmers to take precautions. “These criminal gangs are putting a lot of effort into identifying farm equipment

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fitted with GPS, watching those farms and even using drones to spot opportunities to return at night,” he said. “They go to great lengths to get hold of kit, breaking through locked gates and buildings security systems to take GPS from machinery. “Removing GPS units from your machinery at night and locking it in a well-secured cabinet is the best way to stop these criminals. “When it’s not practical to remove units from machines because of ongoing work away from the farmstead, try and park up machinery where it can’t be seen easily. “Either forensically marking, painting or scratching your farm name or post code onto your GPS makes them less attractive to thieves and harder to sell-on. “And if you see any suspicious vehicles moving around at any time of the day, then please share this information on rural watch groups and the police. “Most of the stolen units are going abroad, but some are offered for sale online here. If something is offered cheap, there’s a reason – don’t fuel illegal activity by buying from these adverts.”

CCTV appeal after break-in at club

POLICE have released CCTV images of a person they would like to trace in connection with burglary at Shaftesbury Football Club. The incident occurred at around 1am on Friday, November 24, when thieves broke into the bar area at the club, in Coppice Street. A number of bottles of alcohol were stolen. PC James Owen, of North Dorset police, said: “We have been conducting an investigation into this burglary and have obtained CCTV images of a man we would like to identify as part of our enquiries. “I would urge anyone with information regarding his identity to please get in touch.” Anyone with information, or who can identify the person pictured, should contact Dorset Police via www.dorset.police. uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 55230185346. They can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org, or by calling 0800 555 111.

Pictures: Dorset Police

Police and insurers issue warnings to farmers as criminals go to great lengths to steal costly kit

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023 blackmorevale.net

Picture: Avon & Somerset Police

Police hunt wanted man

POLICE are hunting a man wanted in connection with a number of offences after a crash in Kenton Mandeville. The police want to speak to Shane Walsh in connection with offences including aggravated taking of vehicles without consent, assaults – including against emergency workers – criminal damage to vehicles, malicious communications and breach of a protection order. Walsh was last seen in Somerton, Somerset, at around 2.30am on Saturday, December 2. There was a subsequent unconfirmed sighting in Castle Cary at about 3pm the same day, police said. It is understood a vehicle 31-year-old Walsh was driving crashed on December 2 in Barton Road, Keinton Mandeville. Walsh is described as a slim white man, 5ft 6ins tall with brown hair. When last seen he was wearing blue jeans, a blue puffer jacket with a dark tan jacket over the top. If you see Walsh please don’t approach him, but call 999 immediately, giving the reference 5223294304. Please call 101 with any other information, giving the same reference. People can also call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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Digger and dumpers stolen A DIGGER and two dumpers were stolen from a Blandford site. The incident happened in the early hours of Friday, November 24, on Higher Shaftesbury Road. Police said a JCB 8008 micro-digger and two JCB tracked dumpers were taken. A stolen van, on a cloned registration, was later seized by police and is believed to have been used in the theft – though the plant machinery was not recovered. PC Sebastian Haggett, of Dorset Rural Crime

Team, said: “We have managed to seize a stolen van we believe was used in the theft. “However, the stolen plant machinery has still not been recovered and I am appealing to anyone with information regarding the theft to please get in touch.” Anyone with information should contact Dorset Police via www.dorset.police.uk, by email to 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk, or by calling 101, quoting incident number 55230185726. They can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously at crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling 0800 555 111.

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New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

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Roadworks alerts RESURFACING works are continuing on Dorset roads throughout December – with drivers being warned of closures. Dorset Council highways maintenance gangs are continuing work to repair damaged roads. “To allow this work to take place safely, the area of the road being worked on will be closed,” a spokesperson said. “Daytime road closures are 9am to 4pm and night work is usually from 8pm to 6am. We will do our best to keep you updated if our schedule of work changes.” The list below features roads being resurfaced and does not include other works, such as water or gas utilities. • C7 Bere Road (Wareham to Bere Regis) – December 4 to 15, then January 15 to 19: road closed daily from 9am to 4pm • North Allington, from Donkey Lane junction to West Street, Bridport junction – November 30 to December 9: road closed from 8pm to 6am • Bridge Inn Lane, Preston, Weymouth, from Bridge in to Seven Acres Road – December 12: road closed from 9am to 4pm • The Cross, Leigh, Sherborne – December 13 to 15: road closed daily from 9am to 4pm People can report highway-related issues via the Dorset Council website www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk.

Car park charges PARKING charges will apply at Shaftesbury’s Coppice Street car park from December 11. After work to revamp the Coppice Street car park, a new payment machine has been installed and charges will come into force from December 11. Shaftesbury Town Council said income from the car park will be “awarded to support local charitable organisations that have a positive impact across the Shaftesbury community via the annual grant awarding process”. “High Street workers, business owners and residents looking for a more affordable parking option are able to purchase an annual permit to park at the recently developed long-stay car park at the rear of Shaftesbury Football Club,” a spokesperson added.

Police warn drivers to stay sober this Christmas ‘DON’T risk it’ is the message being sent to revellers by Wiltshire Police during a Christmas Drink and Drug Drive campaign. The force is urging people to plan their journey home in advance if they are heading out to celebrate the festive season approaching. The Roads Policing Unit, neighbourhood teams and special constabulary will be stepping up patrols over the coming weeks working closely with the Road Safety Partnership, to target those who get behind the wheel of a car having drunk alcohol or consumed illegal drugs. Acting Inspector Will Ayres said: “As Christmas approaches, we know everyone is getting into the festive spirit with lots of parties and get togethers planned over the coming weeks. “We want everyone to enjoy themselves but to do so safely. “Drink and drug driving is not worth the risk. While we hold a zero tolerance approach all year round, our December campaign will see our officers conducting extensive operations targeting drivers travelling in and out of our towns, cities and more rural locations of a night time, especially at weekends.” Last December, a total of 112 drivers were

stopped by officers suspected of drink or drug driving in the Wiltshire Police area. A total of 11 of those drivers came to police attention after being involved in crashes. Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire, Philip Wilkinson, said: “I find it impossible to understand what makes anyone think they’re capable of driving when they’re under the influence of alcohol or drugs. “As well as putting themselves at risk, they’re putting the lives of their passengers and the wider public in total jeopardy. “We want everyone to make it home safely and our Roads Policing Unit works hard to make sure those who drink and/or drug drive are apprehended, but I want anyone who thinks it’s acceptable to drive under the influence of drink or drugs to think about what they’re doing before they’re either taken off the road in the back of a police car or worse still, an ambulance. “It’s just not worth the risk and cracking down on this type of behaviour will save lives and make Wiltshire safer.” Anyone who suspects somebody of drink or drug driving should report concerns via www. wiltshire.police.uk or by calling 101. In an emergency, always call 999.

“Together, these car parks will generate an additional 55 long-stay spaces.” To register for a parking permit at the football club, email info@shaftesburyfc.co.uk, or call Jim on 07808 666380.

Man dies in A303 crash A MAN has died after a crash on the A303 on Friday, December 1. The incident, involving a car and a lorry, happened neat Thruxton at around 9.20am. Police said the crash involved a red Mini Cooper and a lorry and the driver of the car – a man in his 40s from Kingsdon, near Somerton in Somerset – died at the scene. A spokesperson said: “We are appealing for anyone who was driving on the A303 and saw the collision or a red Mini and HGV in the moments before it to get in touch, particularly if you have relevant dash cam footage.” Anyone with information should call police on 101, quoting reference 44230491058.

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023 blackmorevale.net

Royal recognition for Ancient Technology Centre Skills and training of volunteers celebrated at awards ceremony

THE Ancient Technology Centre at Cranborne has received a prestigious award at St James’s Palace in London from Princess Anne. The outdoors education centre, in the heart of Cranborne Chase, was recognised in the Princess Royal Training awards, supported City & Guilds. The centre is home to several re-created buildings from the Stone Age through to the Anglo-Saxons and is used mainly to teach school children about history. It is owned by Dorset Council but is supported by a team of volunteers who build and maintain the structures. The volunteers learn new skills which they pass on to new volunteers to ensure the site is sustainable. This training was recognised at the awards ceremony. Ancient Technology Centre Volunteers

Association vice-chair Colin Alborough said: “We had an amazing day out. “Princess Anne was clearly very impressed with our small team of volunteers as the skills of our volunteers was even mentioned in HRH’s opening speech. “We are the smallest group of people ever to receive such a prestigious award, which is based on outcomes.” Senior tutor Andrew Stevens said: “We are so proud of their achievement. Our staff work closely with the volunteers to transfer the skills of our archaeologists to the volunteers who then upskill their colleagues. “Our volunteers join an alumni of 53 organisations for the 2023 awards and this incredible achievement has made us all very proud.” The public can visit the site and experience ancient crafts first-hand during three open weekends held in March, July and September. For more information about the centre visit www.ancienttechnologycentre.com.

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Above: Colin Alborough receives the award from HRH Princess Royal Below: Ian Groves chats after the ceremony with Princess Anne

Jeff Mould dies age 84

TENNIS players in Marnhull could soon be serving into the night if plans for floodlights are approved. Marnhull Tennis Club has applied to Dorset Council for permission to install four, 10 metre-high pillars for lights around courts, off Nash Lane. A cable providing power for the lights would be run underground to Marnhull Village Hall, the application said. In the application, Marnhull Tennis Club details steps taken to consult the village over the installation of the lights. It said meetings were held,

leaflets distributed and visits paid to neighbours to discuss the scheme. Cameras were also installed at the site to ensure the lights would have no impact on bats. “(The) conclusion from Green Team (is) that there is no material concern over the project, which confirms the support of the Village Hall Committee and (Marnhull) Parish Council,” the application added. For more details, and to comment on the proposals, log on to www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk and search for application reference P/FUL/2023/06869.

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Tennis club lights bid

THE man known as the Wincanton Cobbler – Jeff Mould – has passed away. A staple of the High Street for more than four decades, Mr Mould died on November 3 at the age of 84. A funeral service will be held at noon on Tuesday, December 12, at Yeovil Crematorium. It is understood the funeral car will stop outside his shop – The Wincanton Cobbler – between 11am and 11.15am to allow townsfolk to pay their respects. As well as the trade he was known for by most people, Mr Mould was also a noted racehorse breeder and owner. There are family flowers only at the funeral. Donations in aid of the Jockeys’ Fund care of AJ Wakely & Sons, The Old Police Station, Carrington Way, Wincanton, BA9 9JS.

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Help is at hand

Safe haven

Feeling lonely and need to talk about bereavement? Pop into a Dorchester cafe for comfort and support…

PEOPLE in Dorchester can drop into a bereavement cafe this December to get advice and support on grief and loss. Hosted by Dorset Open Door, Mosaic, Dorset Youth and Dorset Mental Health Forum, the drop-in session on Thursday, December 14, offers residents the opportunity to find out about local bereavement support, talk about how they are feeling, and look at ways to remember and celebrate the lives of their loved ones. The cafe will be open at The Gallery at Dorset Mental Health Forum, 29-29a Durngate Street, Dorchester DT1 1JP from 4.30pm-6.30pm on Thursday 14 December. There is no need to book a place, anyone can come along for a chat and a coffee. For more information about the sessions visit bit.ly/ BereavementCafeDorset. Sam Adkins, project lead for Dorset Open Door, said: “It can be difficult to know how to start looking for support when you have lost someone. Dorset Open Door is a partnership of

local and national organisations, and we are here to help guide you through the process of getting the support you need.” Clare Hayton, senior therapist at Mosaic, said: “Bereavement is something that happens to us all. Thankfully a lot of children do not have to navigate the loss of a loved one until later in their life. So when a young person does experience a death, they can often feel isolated and confused about what they are experiencing. The bereavement cafes are an opportunity to meet others who are bereaved and also to understand the complex feeling around grief.” If you are looking for urgent support and need to talk to someone immediately, please call the Samaritans on 116 123.

ROUGH sleepers in parts of Somerset are being offered emergency accommodation as temperatures plummet. Somerset Council’s Severe Weather Emergency Provision (SWEP) enables the council to provide shelter for rough sleepers in freezing conditions. If the temperatures are below zero in your area, please check if you can access the service by calling 0300 123 22 24 during office hours and 0300 123 23 27 out of office hours. Anyone concerned about a rough sleeper in Somerset during cold weather should refer them via thestreetlink.org.uk so they can access safe and warm accommodation.

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Mere in lights

Text and photos George Jeans see him MERE Christmas illuminations over was very, 60 very long. have been officially switched on bed frames The weather was crisp as it available by carnival princess Hermione should be for The Christmas Buck. period, ‘snow’ fell on the town Special guest, Father clock island. Christmas, was in attendance Music from Ukes at The Butt with free presents. The queue to added much to the atmosphere.

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Volunteers needed Planning row over NATURE-MINDED people are being urged to volunteer for a Dorset charity. The Dorset Wildlife Trust is appealing for people aged 18 and over to join volunteers at visitor centres at Kimmeridge Bay, Chesil Beach and Kingcombe, near Maiden Newton. No expertise is required, as all volunteers will be provided with free training to equip them with the basic knowledge and skills necessary, the trust said. Julie Hatcher, Wild Seas Centre officer, said: “We have an amazing team of volunteers across all our visitor centres with a wide range of backgrounds and ages. “What they all have in common is a passion for wildlife and a desire to help ensure its wellbeing. “With the current climate and ecological crises and increasing pressures from human activities, wildlife on land and in the sea is under threat, our conservation work has never been more important.” “Our aim is to enable visitors to leave our centres feeling empowered to make simple changes in their everyday lives that benefit the planet and help tackle the environmental issues of our day,” Julie added. A limited number of vacancies are available, so potential recruits are asked to contact the relevant visitor centre to register their interest. For more details, contact: Wild Seas Centre at Kimmeridge: Julie Hatcher on 01929 481044 or email kimmeridge@dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk. Wild Chesil Centre: Sarah Hodgson or Abi Mustard on 01305 206191 or email chesilbeach@dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk. Kingcombe Visitor Centre: Matt Harcourt or Harriet Johns on 01300 320684 or email kingcombe@dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk. For more information about volunteer opportunities, log on to www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/volunteering-opportunities.

Christmas grotto

IT might not be mentioned in the Christmas story – but it turns out even Santa needs permission to build a grotto. And an attraction near Frome could be pulled down as it doesn’t have planning consent. An application for two log cabins – to be used as a “Father Christmas grotto” – at Critchill Manor, Critch Hill, has been resubmitted to Somerset Council after being refused in July. However, the cabins are already up and children have been meeting Santa since last month. Now, the site could be ordered to be removed, as council planners recommend the application is refused. The council report said if used to capacity, the site would generate more than 2,200 vehicle trips during the four-week festive season and relies on a “private car for access”. “The trips made will be in addition to other uses operating on the wider site, although it is accepted that some customers may use facilities such as the toilets and cafe/bar at the football clubhouse,” it added. “Overall, this volume of additional traffic does not sit comfortably with the council’s policies on reducing reliance on private transport and encouraging and supporting sustainable forms of development.” It recommends councillors refuse the plan on the grounds the site is “poorly served by public transport and is not readily accessible by safe pedestrian or cyclist access, so access is reliant on private motor vehicles”. However, the plan has the support of Selwood Parish Council, which says it is in walking distance of Frome and has “good parking available for those travelling by vehicle”. For more details on the plan, log on to somerset.gov.uk and search for application reference 2023/1686/FUL.

School shines in recent inspection Shillingstone Primary School celebrates report from Ofsted following inspection

SCHOOLS watchdog Ofsted has rated Shillingstone C of E Primary School ‘Good’ in all areas following a recent inspection. The report comes after the school merged with Okeford Fitzpaine C of E Primary School last year. Inspectors said pupils enjoy learning a broad range of subjects and that the school has high expectations of them. Pupils are given lots of opportunities to discuss and debate ideas, and they are keen to learn and curious to know more. They have highly positive attitudes towards school. The report added: “Pupils at Shillingstone are proud to belong to an inclusive and caring community. They are kind and patient with one another. “Pupils understand that everyone is

different. They celebrate this. Pupils have warm relationships with staff and they feel safe.” The school’s curriculum taught by specialists was highlighted as a strength, as was its focus on early reading, writing and maths. Headteacher Jane Whitehouse-Sharp said: “We are delighted with this Ofsted report as it highlights all the fantastic work our staff do every day.

“It is very rewarding to know that our children are proud to belong to an inclusive and caring school, and that parents are overwhelmingly positive about our school.” Pupils who previously attended Okeford Fitzpaine have been taught at Shillingstone since September 2022, with classes adapted to welcome the new pupils into the school. Ofsted inspectors highlighted how well the school has integrated pupils and made curriculum changes. The school is part of the Sherborne Area School’ Trust (SAST), a multi-academy trust of 18 schools across Dorset and South Somerset. SAST education director Steve Smith said: “We are incredibly proud of Jane and her team at Shillingstone. “Their dedication, drive and energy shine through, and this report highlights, importantly, how happy children are at Shillingstone Primary and what an excellent education they are receiving.”

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Visitors flock to Christmas at Stourhead CHRISTMAS at Stourhead returned in spectacular style with a host of new installations and features on December 1. Visitors are once again flocking to see the mesmerising after-dark experience as it started a five-week run at the National Trust property. Tickets have been in such demand that a new date was added to the schedule. Among the much-anticipated new features on display is Mycelium Network, by Stevie Thompson, of Custom Fibre Optics. “Apart from being completely obsessed and passionate about fibre optic lighting, I’m also very interested and inspired by mushrooms too, with their magical and medicinal properties,” Stevie explained. “So it was the perfect opportunity to collaborate both of my hobbies into a work of art.” Also new to Stourhead is the Meadow of Light, by Lightworks, another design using fibre optics to create thousands of twinkling lights moving in waves across the ground. Crystal Tree, by French lighting designers Pitaya, has a magical effect when the crystals light up as if animated by a glow of their own, while Tree Halos, by Event Design, are a series of glowing rings which appear to float in mid-air around the tree’s trunk at different heights. Ahead of a visit to Christmas at Stourhead, here are five facts

about the attraction you may not know... • Selfie favourite Christmas Cathedral is 24 metres long • Around 100 people have been involved in the trail build • There are 40 tree halos and 100 crystals hung in trees • The trail is 100 per cent powered by renewable biodiesel • The spectacular Sea of Light installation is 2000m2 Early December dates still have availability for off-peak time slots, in which adult tickets are £15 and £10 for children aged three to 16. Infants aged two and under go free. A family ticket during off-peak times is £47. Off-peak slots start as early as 6pm on some evenings. “Christmas at Stourhead provides a special way to celebrate the festive season with an unmissable after-dark experience,” a spokesperson said. “The trail is designed for visitors of all ages and is accessible for everyone to enjoy.” Christmas at Stourhead is brought to you by Sony Music in partnership with the National Trust. The trail is created by Culture Creative. n For more details, and to book your visit, log on to christmasatstourhead.co.uk

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New president for Making memories CPRE THE Dorset branch of the Campaign to Protect Rural England welcomed Kate Adie (pictured right) as its new president at its 86th Anniversary Annual General Meeting. Kate Adie, who has lived in Dorset for over 12 years, spoke of having first fallen in love with the countryside while growing up in Sunderland. She said: “We need to make our mark, stand up for our principals and be happy to have a chance to help.” Peter Neal, Dorset CPRE vice-president, who chaired the AGM, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Kate has agreed to be our president.” Dr Guy Dickinson, vice-chair of Dorset CPRE’s trustees, spoke of the problems facing Dorset in particular. The countryside, green belts and national landscapes (the new name for AONBs) are under threat from development. He said: “We strongly oppose any attempts to redraw the boundaries of either. We believe, as we always have, that new houses should be built on brownfield rather than

greenfield sites.” Looking ahead to 2024, BCP Council is pushing on rapidly with its Local Plan which is likely to be released for public consultation in the new year with a view to adoption by late 2024. Dorset Council has delayed publication of the next version of its Local Plan until late 2024 and is aiming for the new Local Plan to be adopted in spring 2026. Dr Guy Dickinson went on to thank local CPRE members. “A huge contribution is made by our volunteers in examining planning applications, assisting with campaigns, attending and speaking at planning meetings, writing articles and responding to consultations.”

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by Annie Kings ST MARY’S Church, Gillingham, has once again come alive to the sounds of a wonderful concert. The Musical Memories Concert was an evening with the Top Brass & Wind Concert Band, joined by vocalists Arabella Heaton and Ruth Jenkins. The new Wincanton-based South Somerset Good Afternoon Choir, led by Ruth Jenkins, also sang in the first concert given by the mixed choir since it was formed. No-one would have guessed after witnessing its superb choral performance which followed the interval. Another notable part of the evening was an arrangement of folk music played on the medieval folk pipes by Frances Eustace. All the band and choir wore buttonholes, and bouquets were presented to the main performers and dignitaries, all given by Sandy at Mayflowers florist. Cllr Val Pothecary opened the concert and Simon Hoare MP gave the closing words. Dementia Friendly Gillingham organised the concert, and the music and the programme for the evening was carefully produced with thanks to band leader Jackie Adams, who considered people’s thoughts and emotions in a varied selection of music. The finale, in which all voices joined together with the audience to sing Memories, led by Arabella and Ruth, and the Good Afternoon Choir, left everyone wishing for more. Admission to the event was free of charge but a raffle of items given by local businesses, and a retiring collection, amounted to more than £1,132. After expenses were paid, and donations made to St Mary’s Church and the Top Brass & Wind Concert Band, the money will be used by Dementia Friendly Gillingham to continue its work in the community and surrounding villages.

20% OFF WINTER OFFER FROM LIZZIE PRICE SHADING SOLUTIONS AWNINGS, EXTERNAL BLINDS and PERGOLAS aren’t just for Summer, they’re for 365 days a year. Especially when they’re equipped with lighting, heating, and side screens in the case of our pergolas, creating a cosy and pleasant environment on the terrace that can be enjoyed, whatever the weather. To help you make the most of your outdoor space this Autumn/Winter we are offering our lowest prices of the year! And with our lead time of just 4 weeks, you can unlock your gardens true potential and start living the alfresco lifestyle right away. If you want to order now for delivery in the New Year, that’s fine too, allowing you to benefit from this amazing offer and beat the New Year price increases. As long as installation is before Easter 2024, we will store your external shading system at no cost for you, ready to deliver and install when you are ready. We have extended our offer of 20% off all our outdoor shading range. To take advantage of this offer all orders must be placed before 31st January 2024.

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SPARKLE & SHINE WITH SHIRLEY ALLUM CONGRATULATIONS TO 25 YEARS IN BUSINESS

Great things are happening at Shirley Allum Fashion and Lingerie over the next few weeks running up to Christmas. Not only is the shop bursting with Christmas goodie ideas and glamorous Christmas Day (and beyond) outfits to help you sparkle and shine, but they also have a range of perfect stocking fillers including vanity bags, compact mirrors, purses, and beautiful bags of varying sizes. A rainbow selection of scarves awaits you including the softest, most luxurious Cashmere, jewel-coloured woolly ones, and beautiful ‘arty’ ones, you will be sure to find one that suits even the most impossible person on your list! Also, you will find Bamboo socks, warm tights, cosy slippers, and toasty bed socks.

Welcome Santa on Christmas Eve in stylish tartan pjs by Cyberjammies with matching dressing gown or cosy up by the fire with a glass of something warming in a snuggly fleece dressing gown, that you will struggle to be parted from all Christmas. All these goodies are made more attractive by Shirley Allum Fashions giving a 10% discount from the 8th of December until the 21st of December on all items (excluding bras and reduced items). The late-night shopping event in Shaftesbury twinned with the 25th Anniversary of Shirley being in business has been a huge success. The shop sparkled with Christmas lights and despite the weather was a night filled with happy customers, all keen to congratulate Shirley on her milestone Anniversary and of course to pick up the perfect Christmas present with the bonus of a 25% discount promotion which ran to the end of the evening. Shirley and her staff had been giving away free raffle tickets with every purchase for the week prior to the late-night culminating in First prize £250 voucher Second prize £100 voucher and Third prize a £50

voucher plus prizes of various bras of the winner’s choice also being won. The mayor of Shaftesbury kindly drew the six lucky winning tickets for the free prize draw and the one lucky winner for the Breast Cancer Now hamper, goods worth over £200. Shirley would like to thank the staff and customers who have supported our 25th anniversary celebrations and to everyone who bought tickets raising a total of £200.00 for Breast Cancer. To sum up, the evening was a huge success, and we wish Shirley Allum Fashions years of continued business at 30 High Street, Shaftesbury.

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New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

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A plea for help

Money’s too tight for charity donations…

The New

Blackmore Vale

Magazine

Turn to page 22 for our Christmas & New Year Deadlines

by Dianne Cooper, chairman, Age Concern North Dorset, Sturminster Newton AGE Concern North Dorset (ACND) is just one of many small independent charities struggling for survival. These charities rely on the help of dedicated, mainly elderly, volunteers who work tirelessly because they are needed. They know that people rely on the vital services they support. Our clients are vulnerable – elderly, often infirm and disabled. Their numbers are growing every year, but government-funded support is shrinking. I am privileged to have been ACND chairman for the last six years; in that time the three trustees in charge of the charity have worked tirelessly to improve the charity’s governance and core funding as well as expanding and improving the services we offer. We offer most of these services for free, and we do not own shops to contribute to our funding. We depend on funding organisations, donations and fundraising events to survive. My plea to all NBVM readers is to please think about supporting small, independent charities with regular donations. It may be the only way they will be able to continue to support your needs into the future. Out of the 150-plus small Age Concerns that stayed independent after the merger of Age Concern and Help the Aged in 2009, over half have closed their doors (Age England, October 2023). Without your support, I predict most of the local and really important charities will soon be gone.

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Digital Dermatitis by Colin Hayden, Vet Tech at Synergy Farm Health A highly infectious bacterial disease, Digital Dermatitis has been around in this country since the late 80’s. It’s caused by a group of bacteria called Treponemes that thrive in wet and dirty conditions, especially slurry. Once infected, the bacteria burrow deep into the skin of the animal causing very sore open lesions. The disease is prominent in dairy herds across the country and can also affect beef animals. The most recent information on the disease puts the cost of one single case of Digital Dermatitis at around £80. If there is a

high prevalence of the disease in your herd you can imagine it will be costing you dearly. Reduced yields, poorer fertility and higher culling rates will all affect profit. Prevention is always better than cure! Infected animals it seems will never get over the disease, often alternating from active, sore lesions back to a dormant state after treatment. It is therefore much better to prevent your animals from being infected rather than treating them when it’s too late. Foot hygiene is paramount, keeping yards as clean as possible and implementing a regular foot bathing regime. There are a few options on what product to use, most tend to find formalin or copper sulphate work best. Make sure the concentration is correct - a weaker foothbath more often will have more of an effect, vs a stronger one less regularly. There are some really good automatic footbaths on the market now which can be set to empty and refill with the correct amount of product after a certain amount of cows have passed through. Don’t forget the dry cows and youngstock too. Have a chat with your vet or vet tech who will be happy to offer more advice.

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Media moguls of the future Students learn the tools of the trade in community media workshops

PUPILS at Gillingham School took part in a Media Makers Club through the Gillingham Youth Collective. They got to grips with media skills ranging from multi-camera shoots through to interviewing and live vision mixing, culminating in a ‘Big Show’ showcasing their achievements. The Big Show was a real community event, with parents enjoying the show alongside Gillingham Mayor Barry Von Clements, councillors Byron Quayle and Val Pothecary, Jules Bond from Gillingham Community Church and Karen Johnson, representing the Social Prescribing Team and Gillingham Youth Club. The young people have benefited from working alongside the Rendezvous’ resident film-maker Marianne King, project leader Lou Donovan and tech specialist Julian Bishop. They have had access to professional equipment and undertaken a

range of projects including green screening, mobile journalism, graphics and post production techniques. Pupils were also supported by head of media studies at Gillingham School, Dan Jones, and former Top Gear presenter Nicky Fox. Mel Marshall, assistant headteacher at Gillingham School, said: “The collaboration with the Gillingham Youth Collective has been an amazing opportunity for allowed our students to access professional training in media making, building both their skills and confidence.” Students involved have really enjoyed the experience, which is now in its second year. One said: “I liked being able to use/do

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things that we wouldn’t normally, like vision mixing and using lots of proper equipment.” Parents have seen their children’s confidence grow through the project, with one saying “Media makers has really inspired my son so much he has applied for a TV Film Level 3 course at Wiltshire College.” The Gillingham Youth Collective is a young people’s partnership project funded by the National Lottery Community Fund. Rendezvous said of the Media Club, “We are very proud of the commitment and enthusiasm the Media-Makers have brought to the project and grateful for the support of all the team at Gillingham School. We know there are lots hard and soft skills to be gained through the team-work involved in film production, but it’s always great to see young people grow and gain confidence whilst having fun. We’re looking forward to running the next group but in the meantime some of our film-makers will be going off into the community to produce a promotional film for a youth group running in Gillingham.”

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Companion pets help people living with dementia STUDENTS and adult day service users at Employ My Ability, Thorngrove, Gillingham, had every reason to be proud when they presented a cheque for £908.35 to Anne Kings on behalf of Dementia Friendly Gillingham. The team at Thorngrove raised the money for robotic companion pets through a sponsored run/walk around the large playing field behind Riversmeet, a sponsored car wash and a cake stall. Anne said: “Dementia Friendly Gillingham went to Thorngrove to deliver a dementia awareness session to students and day service users, and we took one of our ‘companion pets’ to show them what we do to help people who have dementia. “The ‘pet’ we took to Thorngrove found a new home, and it was such a pleasure to leave it behind for everyone to enjoy. “The students decided they wanted to raise money for us to be able to buy more ‘companion pets’, so other people in the community could get pleasure from owning one of their own.” Dementia Friendly Gillingham is appealing for people to let it know of anyone with dementia or memory loss who would benefit from a therapy pet. Some people are no longer able to keep a pet and have gone through the heartache of not having the company of an animal in their lives. The realistic robotic pets react to the owner’s touch or speech and are weighted to feel like the real thing. If the owner falls asleep,

the pet goes into sleep mode until the owner wakes again. Dementia Friendly Gillingham is seeking loving homes for the six companion pets it can buy with the money raised. Anyone who lives in the SP8 area or surrounding villages who knows someone with dementia or memory loss, and whose life would be improved by owning a therapy pet, should email annemkings2@btinternet.com. The closing date for nominations is January, 31, 2024.

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At your local library this December

HEAD to Shaftesbury Library on Saturday, December 9, for free and festive children’s activities. From 11am to midday, make and personalise your own beautiful Christmas angels to take home. Christmas colouring will be available for younger children. Booking is essential via Eventbrite, or speak to library staff. Activities are suitable for children under 12; those under eight must be accompanied by an adult. For more information call 01747 852256 or email shaftesburylibrary@ dorsetcouncil.gov.uk. December activities at Sherborne Library kick off with a visit from Dorset Council Waste Services on December 18 (midday to 3pm). Pick up tips on reducing food waste and saving money over the festive season, and take home free, practical items to help you reduce waste too. During the school holidays, children can take part in Christmas crafts on Thursday, December 21 (10.30am– 11.30am), and festive story time on Saturday, December 23 (2pm–2.30pm). Activities are free, and suitable for children aged three and above; those under eight must be accompanied by an adult. For more information on activities at Sherborne Library call 01935 812683 or visit www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/ libraries-history-culture/libraries/libraries.

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Music makes money MUSICIANS got on board the Big Yellow Bus Garden Project in Shillingstone raising £2,280 through a special music evening. Local farmer’s wife Jules Hosford and Mike Brown, musical director of male vocal group the Gravellers, teamed up for the event to improve facilities at the garden project for people with a disability. The Gravellers told stories accompanied by song, and Jules and two friends, collectively known as Angels of the North, sang in between sets. Langhams provided glasses of bubbly and Wessex Internet contributed food to make the evening go with a swing. The Big Yellow Bus Garden Project, run by Eq Health & Wellbeing, a not-for-profit community interest company, provides a community health and wellbeing space alongside the North Dorset Trailway. The four-acre site is split into three areas – a formal landscape garden, a community growing space and a wildflower orchard with beehives. Angel of the North Jules Hosford and Paul Williams, who runs the Big Yellow Bus Garden Project

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New chairman for Dorset Men

THE Society of Dorset Men has elected a new chairman, Peter Lush, who has lived in the Dorchester area for 45 years. He was elected at a special general meeting, held by permission of society president Lord Julian Fellowes, at Stafford House, West Stafford. Peter, the son, grandson and great-grandson of Dorset men, succeeds Stuart Adam, who stood down at the recent annual meeting. Peter is also a well-known member of Came Down Golf Club. A convivial reception followed the meeting, with drinks and refreshments provided by Lord and Lady Fellowes, and members enjoyed meeting old friends and making new. The society was formed in London in 1904 before moving some years later to Dorset and exists ‘to foster love of county and pride in its history and traditions’. It has a membership of 750 and holds a County Dinner each year and other functions. It also organises visits to places of interest and makes charitable donations to local organisations. New members are welcome. More information and a membership application form can be found at www. societyofdorsetmen.co.uk.

Shield your home from Care Costs Advertisement & Inheritance Tax with a feature Living Trust. How a Living Trust protects your estate: 1. 2. 3.

Care Costs: Placing your main home into a living trust can ring fence the property from any potential future care costs. Thus, protecting your inheritance Asset Protection: By transferring ownership of your home and other assets to a living trust, can help protect them from creditors, divorce & remarriage, and other potential claims, including care costs. Inheritance Tax Planning: A living trust can be part of an estate planning strategy to minimize inheritance tax liability. By placing assets into a trust, they can be excluded from your taxable estate upon your passing, potentially reducing the amount of inheritance tax your beneficiaries would owe. Revocable Nature: One of the advantages of a living trust is that it is revocable, meaning you can make changes to the trust or even revoke it entirely during your lifetime. This flexibility allows you to adapt to changing circumstances or wishes. Trust Administration: When you establish a living trust, you typically designate yourself as the trustee, thus maintaining control over the assets and allowing you to continue using and managing them as you did before. Should you move home the trust stays in place and protects your new residence.

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Our loose Canon Dancing ever-closer to God… by Canon Eric Woods You put your left arm in, your left arm out, In out, in out, you shake it all about. You do the Hokey Cokey and you turn around: That’s what it’s all about. We are in the season of Advent, which began last Sunday. It’s a time during which Christians traditionally reflect on the “Four Last Things” – death, judgment, heaven and hell. Sounds a bit gloomy, doesn’t it – especially for those for whom Christmas began on “Black Friday” or “Cyber Monday” (terms which, if you ask me, have more than something of the dark about them). But the Advent themes are simply about preparation: preparation for Christmas, of course, but also for the rest of our lives, and for our meeting with the Lord. They are about hope, not fear. They are about promise, not threat. I once arranged a sermon course, not on the “Four Last Things” but on “Four Last Sermons” – the sermons my preachers would want to deliver if they knew they would never preach again. I can still remember one elderly priest’s moving and sometimes humorous reflection on the Christian life as being like a dance around God, risking first the left arm, then the right, and gradually more and more of you until

The New

blackmorevale.net You put your whole self in, your whole self out, In out, in out, you shake it all about. You do the Hokey Cokey and you turn around: That’s what it’s all about. So my Advent message is very simple. To those of you who are older, and perhaps feeling frustrated by the physical limitations imposed by the passing years: take heart. If you have used those years to dance ever-closer to God, until you have “put your whole self in”, then you have a ministry of prayer of which those of us who rush about in a constant state of perspiration have great need. We need your insights and your perceptions, too: do not be afraid to share them. You still have much to offer. Teach us about the deepdown things. And to those of you who are younger, and encumbered with all the cares of work and family and schedules and deadlines: do not allow the busy-ness of life to blind you to the spiritual world. You were born with an inquiring mind, an active imagination and the capacity to be filled with wonder and awe. Every child possesses these things, and you have only to spend a little time with children to discover that, in this regard at least, nothing has changed. Children still brush against the Divine and wonder at the Infinite, and that should give us great hope. But somehow the cares and preoccupations of adult life claim them at ever earlier an age, and that is a cause of great sadness – unless we can help them to remain open to wonder and awe and transcendence and glory. And we will not be able to do that unless we have held on to that capacity in ourselves.

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New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

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News from Blandford evening WI

The ladies have been putting their craft skills to good use

Left and below: Members of Blandford Evening WI made penguin decorations for their Christmas trees at the November meeting

Above left: Blandford Evening WI was represented by Maggie Putt and Jenny Wise at the town’s Remembrance Parade when they laid the poppy wreath on behalf of members. Above right: A Poppy Fall created by the deft hands of WI ladies draped from the pulpit to the floor in the parish church.

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New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

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Join in the Food, Fun and Friendship at Fern Brook Lodge this Winter

During the cold winter months, Care South will be welcoming new residents to stay warm, safe and cared for in its care homes. Families and friends are also invited to visit their loved ones to share in the Food, Fun and Friendship on offer at each care home. Whether you’re looking for a short stay, a change of scenery to give you and your family members a break, or even a new home, Care South’s care homes offer comfort, security, and peace of mind. Fern Brook Lodge is a warm and welcoming residential and dementia care home located in the quiet town of

Gillingham. At the heart of Fern Brook Lodge is Food, Fun and Friendship, providing hearty, nutritious meals and a wealth of fun activities. There’s little doubt that keeping active is good for us; it helps us feel more energetic, happier, and stimulated and helps avoid loneliness and isolation. That’s why a rich and varied activities programme is such an important part of care home life. A daily activities programme exists to create a mix of fun and engaging activities that appeal to everyone, such as group games, interacting with the community, relaxing during performances from visiting entertainers, and getting out and about on day trips. All activities are also tailored to offer something to those who prefer to be in smaller groups or need one-to-one interactions. The events and activities on offer are all designed to resident’s interests and ensure that they can embrace their golden years. Residents and staff at Fern Brook Lodge recently enjoyed a trip to Sherborne Castle and Gardens, where they were able to start feeling festive. Everyone enjoyed a nice walk around all the musical Christmas displays, admiring the colourful lights and beautiful decorations. One resident absolutely loved the sparkling train display and said he could have watched it for hours! The day finished with residents enjoying a nice cup of coffee and delicious slice of chocolate cake in the onsite café, with an abundance of Food, Fun and Friendship. Care South is a not-for-profit charity and leading provider of residential and home care across the south of England. Fern Brook Lodge boasts 75 welcoming bedrooms and benefits from an abundance of local shops, cafés, restaurants, and other facilities, allowing residents to continue doing what they love, whether that’s coffee with friends or enjoying time with visiting loved ones.

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New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

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Bat box builders

Shop local

CARPENTERS from Gillshed have been busy building homes for bats which will be installed at Duncliffe Wood, near Shaftesbury. The 10 bat boxes will provide a safe place from spring to late autumn for species like pipistrelle, noctule, Natterers and brown long-eared bats to shelter during the day. They may even be used as maternity roosts for some of these species. The ‘slot’ design enables volunteers from the Dorset Bat Group to monitor the bats with minimal disturbance. The carpenters worked with Dorset Wildlife Trust to build the boxes, which are made of untreated larch and should last 15-20 years. For more information about joining Gillshed, at Orchard Park garden centre, Gillingham, contact Bob Partridge on 01747 838398 or 07397 935755, or email bobpartridge8888@gmail.com.

LOCAL author Lesley Webb’s latest novel is available for purchase from Wren’s community shop in East Knoyle. Millie and Louise tells the story of recently widowed Louise’s journey around France in a camper van. She meets the mysterious Henri, who appears and disappears as she travels. When tragedy strikes, Louise has to re-assess her life and what is important to her. Find out more at www. lesleywebbwrites.co.uk/news.

TOP: Vic, Rob and Phil from Gillshed with the finished bat boxes (PHOTO: Mitch Perkins); RIGHT: Checking bat boxes in Duncliffe Wood (PHOTO: Mariko Whyte); LEFT: Brown long-eared bat (PHOTO: Mariko Whyte)

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New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

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Outdoor explorers learn more Festive fair Children enjoy the breath of fresh air that is lessons in school’s woodland

WITCHAMPTON C of E First School has expanded its ‘outdoor explorers’ site for children. The school, near Wimborne, emphasises education in the open and has extensive grounds which it has developed to provide more opportunities. The children regularly use the space to get involved with outdoor learning, and activities including den building, fire lighting and whittling. Headteacher Jo Hancock said: “Our children love being outdoors, so we decided to expand the ‘outdoor explorers’ part of our grounds. “It really helps with developing the children’s

self-esteem and muscle strength while they work collaboratively to solve problems and work creatively. “They have some amazing ideas and really love to challenge themselves. “Witchampton is in a beautiful area and we get the children out as often as possible. “Recently we were invited to the Critchell Estate for a meadow sweep and came back on a trailer being pulled by a tractor. “We visit local farms and explore rivers – all to give the children the most rounded education we can. “We have spaces left this year and welcome new children for the next academic year.” The school is part of Initio Learning Trust whose chief executive officer Liz West said: “It looks like great fun and the children are learning all the

time. “It teaches them practical skills, how to work in teams and it improves their communication. “It is a wonderful extended facility and children who come up to our middle schools from Witchampton are all prepared well for the next stage of their education.”

CHRISTMAS is coming to Bishops Caundle village hall next Friday (December 15) with a Christmas Fair in aid of Bishops Caundle Community Shop and All Saints School. Local stallholders, face painting, refreshments and Santa’s grotto will be available from 3-6.30pm. Children at Witchampton C of E First School enjoy their new outdoor space

We are a friendly family business established for over 25 years with 40 years combined working within the equine industry. • Flexible Working Hours • Horsebox Sales/Self Drive Hire 07951 132463 • All Horsebox Repairs And Refurbishments Facebook.com/ khbhorseboxes • MOT Preparation • New Ramps/Floors/Windows • Accident Repairs And Insurance Work • Supply Of Most Parts For Commercial Vehicles • Self Drive Hire Of 3.5 Ton And 7.5 Ton 2 Horse With Full Living • Very Competitive Rates We are always happy to offer free advice on anything Horsebox related

Lynn worked as a horse transporter for over 20 years and can offer invaluable advice on various problems and issues with the horse area of horseboxes and what can be done to improve things. Lynn works with Keith who has worked for over 25 years on Commercial vehicles and Horseboxes as a mechanical engineer. Often horseboxes are over 20 years old and can be a challenge to get through their platings. We always do our utmost to get these vehicles up to scratch and within budget. A new venture is our Self Drive Hire Horseboxes. We have 3.5 tons and also an Automatic 7.5 ton for SELF DRIVE HIRE. Buying a horsebox is a huge commitment which isn’t for everyone. With rising costs horsebox ownership isn’t always practical and that’s where self drive hire is a great solution. With fixed costs and discounts on multiple days you can accurately budget your transport for the year. Fully comprehensive insurance and full PRP Rescue cover is included and prices start from just £90 PER DAY.

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New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

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Probate Explained Abigail Doggrell - Solicitor

Q: What probate service does HK Law offer? A: Here at HK Law, we make it as straightforward and stress-free as possible so that Executors can have peace of mind that things are being done correctly and in a timely manner. Q: What are the initial steps taken by HK Law in probate cases? A: We start by meeting Executors, obtaining identification, and reviewing the death certificate. In this meeting, we advise on Will terms, discuss the next steps, and outline the likely timescale and associated fees. We then start the estate administration by valuing assets and liabilities to calculate the estate’s value and potential inheritance tax. We also inform beneficiaries about their inheritance.

Q: Why choose the HK Law probate team? A: At HK Law, we understand how hard it can be to deal with the death of a loved one, which is why we strive to offer both compassion and expertise during the process of probate. So, if you need help with administering an estate, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. If you are looking for independent legal advice get in touch with our Wills, Probate, Tax & Trusts team, Abigail Doggrell, Charlotte Parsons, Chris Keenan, Hannah Keenan, Rosanna Derryman and Sue Pemberton. Visit hklaw.uk to get in touch.

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New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

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Reach for the stars

DANCERS from the Caron Parry School of Dance, in Shaftesbury, were crowned champions at Blackpool Grand Finals. Eleven dancers travelled to Blackpool for the competition, which is a highlight in the ballroom and Latin American dancing calendar. Special congratulations go to Megan Parry (15) and Samantha Pearcey (16), who were crowned champions in their events. Dancers Summer Hart, Christopher Sykes, Julie Sykes, Helen Kunze, Alex Turner and Anaya Mudoti also made finals. Caron said, “The standard of dancing is exceptional high at this event and the dancers have attended competitions throughout 2023 to qualify to dance in these finals at the Blackpool Winter Gardens.” Find out more at www.caronparryschoolofdance.co.uk.

Above: Samantha Pearcey and Megan Parry; Left: (L to R) Alex Turner, Helen Kunze, Anaya Mudoti, Elizabeth Love, Emma Hurst-Jones, Christopher Sykes, Julie Sykes and Megan Parry, Right: Summer Hart

Tree-mendous!

Pupils get stuck in during ‘Tree Day’ at Shaftesbury Primary School ON Thursday, November 23, children from Shaftesbury Primary School planted just under 500 trees around the edge of their school field in a mammoth project that became known as ‘Tree Day’. The trees, which were sourced from The Woodland Trust, Carbon Footprint and Tree Appeal, comprise 19 native species. Planted in a way to provide shade, teaching areas, natural pathways and outdoor play zones, the wooded area will also become an essential habitat for the birds, insects and small mammals that are essential to our ecosystem. The school also invited children to plant or dedicate a tree in the memory of a passed family member, friend or pet, and over 60 trees are now permanent memorials for the children to visit whenever they feel the need to. Alongside the tree planting, children worked together to create bug hotels, amphibian homes and hedgehog holes, just in time for the winter hibernation period, and they prepared new wildflower areas which will be planted up in the spring. The Key Stage 2 children’s maths skills were also applied in a mapping and costing activity that saw them designing their own outdoor space at Shaftesbury Primary, using counting, multiplication and area knowledge in order to meet certain criteria, with older children also being tasked with costing their plan within a provided budget. Tree Day would not have been possible without resources being donated by local businesses (Kavanagh Roofing, Orchard Park Garden Centre and No More Stumps), parents and Shaftesbury Abbey Primary School, with additional funding and support being

provided by the Dorset Garden Trust and Planet Shaftesbury. We also look forward to wildflower donations from Barretts Homes and Plantworld in the spring. Shaftesbury Primary class teacher, and Tree Day organiser, Ben Smiley told us, “This ambitious project was a huge success, and it was only the teamwork of the children, school adults and volunteers that enabled the planting of so many trees to be possible. Thanks must go to Head of School Kelly Fletcher for allowing so many trees to be planted on the grounds too. I am certain the children are excited to see their trees grow in the coming years, and look forward to seeing how the school environment continues to develop into the future.”

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

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Complete care solutions

50% off respite stays

A Bramley Caring Christmas We believe in making the festive season a truly memorable experience for all in our care. This festive season, Bramley Care are offering 50% off respite stays throughout Christmas and New Year. At The Old Rectory, Bramley House, and Millbrook House, we celebrate with an extra layer of Christmas spirit. The homes are adorned with twinkling lights and elegant decorations, creating an atmosphere of magical holiday cheer. The culinary experience is a highlight, with our chefs preparing an array of delicious festive meals, from our traditional Christmas dinner to our special New Year’s feasts, splendid celebrations that bring everyone together. The tables, with their festive theme, create a delightful and heart-warming setting. The menus, meticulously planned and prepared, cater for varied

tastes and dietary needs, ensuring that every resident can indulge in the traditional flavours of the season. This is more than just a culinary delight; it’s a focal point of communal joy, shared stories, and laughter, fostering a sense of belonging and togetherness. For families, knowing your loved one is in a nurturing, festive environment provides immense reassurance. The homes buzz with festive activities and celebrations, ensuring residents feel the Christmas spirit throughout their stay. With our 50% off offer, families have the chance to give their loved ones a break away filled with care, joy, and the warmth of a community, while also taking a much-needed respite rest themselves. This festive season, let Bramley Care be the home from home for your loved ones. Vacancies are limited so please get in touch to find out more.

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New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

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The Orphaned Fawn Settle into your favourite chair, sip a warming tipple and nibble on a mince pie – this festive tale will get you in the Christmas spirit… It’s inspired by a fawn spotted in a Dorset herd, led by a majestic white stag by Estelle Phillips THE graveyard gate was sticky with frost and Eva’s fingers numbed when she opened it. Her mother’s dying plea had been ‘Go to Granny’, but Eva didn’t know where she lived. Grass crunched underfoot as she stumbled to where her mother lay, and stopped; a shape was humped on the freshly dug grave. Slivers of moonlight fell through the yew and she saw it was a fawn. He lay prone and his eyes were shut. “Poor little thing.” Tenderly, she stroked the animal, but he did not respond. She scooped leaves over him, ran back to the empty house, and returned with milk and a teaspoon. As she had seen her mother do with lambs, she cradled the fawn’s head in her lap and dribbled milk in his mouth. After the seventh spoonful, he opened his eyes. One by one, she massaged the fawn’s spindly legs. His tail twitched and he tried to stand. Hands girthed under his belly, Eva helped him up. He stood unsteady on his narrow hooves, but his ears pricked upright and he stared at the sky. She followed his eyes to the North Star, which was unusually bright. As they stared, clouds fizzed beyond the spire and sweet harmony trilled the night. The clouds billowed, shooting stars streaked from their puffs and the sky sparkled and filled with song. The fawn’s eyes widened, his fur electrified, and his ears flicked forwards and back. A voice echoed, “Eyy-down!” Lightning danced off the spire, silver flakes rained on the tombstones, and a pair of stags emerged from the cloud, pulling a battered sleigh. They plunged down and landed by Eva’s mother’s grave. The stags’ furry chests were frozen with sweat but they shook their antlered heads with pride and pranced playfully. As they moved, golden mist shimmied from them and wafted into the air. An old man sat in the driving seat, hat pulled down over his eyes, and wrapped in a worn red coat. Leather gauntlets encased his hands and his beard glistened with stalactites. Entranced, the fawn tried to walk to the stags, but he crumbled to the ground. Trembling, Eva carried him to them. Musky scent swirled up her nostrils, snorted breath tingled her cheeks, and golden mist dewed the fawn’s fur and her skin. Strength filled Eva’s body and the fawn strained forward in her arms, wriggling to be released. With care, she set him down. Transformed, he skipped up to the stags, showing off with tiny bucks. The stags rocked their antlers wildly, mock-barked ferociously, and the bigger stag lowered his head to charge. Valiantly, the fawn dashed at him. Just before their foreheads clashed, the stag lifted his head and pawed the ground. The fawn gazed up at him, ears back, and the stag looked gravely down; his nose glowed like a ruby in the sun, he rested it gently on the fawn’s crown and the his hide glowed red where it sat. Then both stags bent their legs in a bow, and the fawn bowed back. The old man said, “Happy Christmas, Eva.” He handed her a sack from the back of the sleigh, freed some stalactites caught on a buttonhole, cracked the reins and cried, “Eyy-up!”

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Glitter exploded over the graveyard, the stags heaved to, and the sleigh arced through the dark heading north. In the sack was a pair of boots. Golden mist twirled from their soles, and they fitted Eva like a glove; she did not tire or feel the cold when the fawn led her along the ox drove, into valleys and up again; he knew where he was going and late Christmas Day, they stopped at her grandmother’s cottage. Eva knelt and hugged the fawn. Already, he had thickened with muscle and his power was apparent. The pair touched noses and Eva whispered, “Thank you.” The fawn trotted down the path and gracefully leapt the fence. Eva’s boots took her across many lands. She could walk for days without feeling tired and was sought after as a shepherdess. The fawn became a legendary white stag and with the birds eye view Rudolph had bestowed him, kept his herd safe. Every Christmas Eve wherever she is the white stag finds Eva; he carries her on his back to the highest hill, where they listen for a song. Estelle Phillips is a performance poet and writer living in Broad Chalke. Her work includes the poetry collection ‘Motherhoodlum’ (Jawbone), for which she was nominated for the 2023 Forward Prize, and ‘Hard Wet Sand’, for which she was awarded second prize in the Yeovil Literary Competition (Novel) 2022. Estelle can be found online at Instagram @estelle_writer44 and TikTok @estellephillips.

The show must go on

ESTELLE’S show The Trapped Doe will premiere on January 10 and 11, 2024, at London’s Etcetera Theatre in Camden. The show features magical nature stories woven through with filmed Dorset landscape vignettes and includes the story of the same name, which appeared in your NBVM earlier this year. As the show progresses, the stories become more magical and the landscape vignettes immerse the audience in our beautiful countryside.

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Church stalwart Gwen turns 100 A STALWART of the Mothers Union, National Trust volunteer and devoted member of the Church of England has celebrated turning 100. Gwendoline Evans, a lifetime member of the Mothers Union and former volunteer at Stourhead, marked the occasion on December 3. Born in Bexley, Kent, in 1923 to parents Frances Lilian and William Ansell, Gwen was the eldest of four children, with Joyce, Norman and Beryl. She went to school in Bromley, also in Kent, as the family had moved to a home owned by her grandmother. Aged 16, Gwen met the love of her life, Kenneth Evans, at a bus stop as she made her way home after playing tennis with a friend. She left school and went to Bath College of Art, but was called up on her borthday in 1942, and joined the Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS). There, she learnt to drive a Bedford truck, which she was expected to be able to dismantle and reassemble wherever she was in the country. She was based at various camps, but came back to Camberley for an advanced drivers course at the same time Princess Elizabeth, who was also in the ATS, was there, and remembers seeing the future Queen on numerous occasions. During her service, she drove

Gwen Evans has turned 100 and inset, receiving flowers from Steve Lee, of Wincanton Royal British Legion

many armaments to the south coast area of Portsmouth, but didn’t realise they were for D-Day. After she was discharged from the ATS, she went down to Cornwall, to work for a circuit judge and was also companion to his wife. Kenneth eventually asked her to marry him and she came back up to London to work, before they married in 1951. The couple had two children and lived in Chatham, Ulverston and Chippenham, until finally moving to Ruscombe in Berkshire. Gwen worked as the doctor’s receptionist for many years but when Kenneth was made

redundant, they worked together for a housing company for elderly people, sourcing soft materials required to fit the rooms out. Sadly, Kenneth passed away from cancer in 1979. Gwen stayed in the bungalow in Ruscombe for a few years and eventually moved to Evercreech in Somerset in the mid 1980s. After her son emigrated to Western Australia 30 years ago, she enjoyed many holidays there, as well as jetsetting on Saga holidays around the world. She moved briefly to Castle Cary, into an apartment, but quickly realised it wasn’t for her as she loved her garden and

still had a hectic social life. She has always been a member of the Church of England, and was pivotal in church life in Evercreech, as well as being a lifetime member of the Mothers Union, and spent a lot of time liaising with the Bishop of Bath and Wells, George Carey at various meetings. Gwen then moved to Wincanton in 2000 and joined the congregation of St Peter and St Pauls Wincanton and the Wincanton branch of the Mother’s Union. She has also been a longstanding member of the Royal British legion, and her children have memories of selling poppies with her from the age of eight. She volunteered for the National Trust at Stourhead for many years, always enjoying chatting to people and learning about each room she worked in. As she got older, Gwen enjoyed visiting National Trust properties herself, staying in Warners hotels, especially Cricket St Thomas. Sadly, she celebrated her 100th birthday in Crewkerne Community Hospital, where she is recovering from a fall at home. However, she will be moving into a nursing home very soon, where she hopes to welcome many visitors.

Record donations for shoebox appeal KNITTED toys, clothing, soap, toothbrushes, stationery, stickers and more are on their way from the Vale to children around the world - thanks to you. More than 100 generous donations have been handed to the Blackmore Vale Shoebox Appeal run by Holly Lamb, at Total Energy Services, in Blandford. The donations have been handed to the Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child appeal, which distributes the gifts to young people affected by war, famine and poverty around the world. “This year we were truly blown away by

donations and we thank all those who gifted such wonderful items,” said Holly. “Once again we received an abundance of knitted soft toys and clothing, toys, soap, toothbrushes, stationary, note pads, stickers, socks, gloves, books and many more useful and fun gifts! “We thank all members of the public who dropped in such beautiful and thoughtful items, we thank Dorset Police who kindly donated a huge box and the many knitting groups who each year provide us with so many knitted items that the children find much comfort in.”

She said a new record was set, with 108 boxes being handed to the cause. “It has shown us how in times of need our local community can really come together,” Holly added. “We thank all those who have taken the time to go out and purchase such lovely gifts or those who knit such beautiful soft toys and clothing.” She is already turning her attention to 2024, with donations being accepted from September. For more information, contact Holly on 01258 472132 or email holly@ totalenergy.co.uk.

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

News

Christmas and Save New Year rubbish £50 and recycling this Remember:

1) Up to two extra sacks of rubbish beside your bin will be

blackmorevale.net

Christmas!

2) No garden waste collections will take place after 22 December until Monday 8 January. 3) Household recycling centres are open from 9am - 4pm daily, except Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. 4) Extra recycling – including glass and food – will be collected on your recycling collection day, provided it has been separated correctly and placed in a suitable sturdy container (no bags) that can be easily lifted by one person. 5) Please help collection crews by putting your glass out for collection before Christmas. This ensures you have as much space as possible in your glass box going into the festive period, helping prevent overspilling containers.

These tips can help you make savings on your Christmas food budget. It can save you time as well! • Plan your meals over Christmas fortnight - make a shopping list

See what items can be recycled at the kerbside at dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/which-bin

Find more top tips and recipes at dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/lovefoodhatewaste

and stick to it

• Check your food cupboards before shopping • Use the portion calculator at lovefoodhate waste.com/portion-planner

• Use up foods in your freezer beforehand to make room for Christmas leftovers

• Store food correctly – check pack instructions

• Keep an eye on “use by” dates • Use up leftovers in delicious recipes • Freeze leftovers that can’t be eaten

Bin collection days Your recycling and waste collections over the festive period will be diﬀerent from your usual day of the week.



Collection day

Usual Monday 25 Dec Tuesday 26 Dec Wednesday 27 Dec Thursday 28 Dec Friday 29 Dec Monday 1 Jan Tuesday 2 Jan Wednesday 3 Jan Thursday 4 Jan Friday 5 Jan Monday 8 Jan Tuesday 9 Jan Wednesday 10 Jan Thursday 11 Jan Friday 12 Jan

Revised Wednesday 27 Dec Thursday 28 Dec Friday 29 Dec Saturday 30 Dec Tuesday 2 Jan Wednesday 3 Jan Thursday 4 Jan Friday 5 Jan Saturday 6 Jan Monday 8 Jan Tuesday 9 Jan Wednesday 10 Jan Thursday 11 Jan Friday 12 Jan Saturday 13 Jan

Refer to your calendar or visit

dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/bin-day to check your collection days.

Recycle more This Christmas, don’t let all your waste go to landﬁll. If you live in Dorset*, you can recycle: • All cooked and uncooked food waste • Wrapping paper**, cardboard and Christmas cards (no glitter) • Plastic bottles, pots, tubs and trays • Glass bottles and jars (Please keep glass separate) We’ll collect extra recycling in your own boxes.

Thank you for recycling! If you live in Dorset*, check for changes to your collection * Doesn’t include Bournemouth, Christchurch or Poole. Check your council website for details. ** Scrunch your wrapping paper! If it stays scrunched, it can be recycled. If it doesn’t, or it’s foil-based or glittery, it should go in the rubbish bin.

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Events

Even Santa needs planning permission IT might not be mentioned in the Christmas story - but it turns out even Santa Clause needs permission to build a grotto. And an attraction near Frome could be pulled down as it doesn’t have planning consent. An application for two log cabins - to be used as a “Father Christmas grotto” - at Critchill Manor, Critch Hill, has been resubmitted to Somerset Council after being refused in July. However, the cabins are already up and children have been meeting Santa since last month. Now, the site could be ordered to be removed, as planners at the council recommend the application is refused. “The wider Critchill Manor estate is former farmland which has previously been used as a golf course, but is now in various commercial and tourist uses, including the Frome Town Football Club ground, clubhouse and associated facilities,” a planning report said. “The application seeks planning permission to site two timber buildings, which will be utilised as a Father Christmas ‘grotto’.”

It is an identical application to one refused in July, the report to the council’s East Planning Committee said. However, the plan has the support of Selwood Parish Council, which says it is in walking distance of Frome and has “good parking available for those travelling by vehicle”. Others have also backed the application, citing reasons including that there are already businesses on the site, the attractions offers support for SEN children, as well as those with disabilities. The development has less impact than those already allowed, they said.

However, an objection to the scheme said a vacant town-centre shop would be a better venue, and raised highways safety issues. Outside of the festive season, the buildings would be used for storage, the plan added. The council report said if used to capacity, the site would generate more than 2,200 vehicle trips during the four-week festive season and relies on a “private car for access”. “The trips made will be in addition to other uses operating on the wider site, although it is accepted that some customers may use facilities such as the toilets and cafe/bar at the football clubhouse,” it added. “Overall, this volume of additional traffic does not sit comfortably with the council’s policies on reducing reliance on private transport and encouraging and supporting sustainable forms of development.” It recommends councillors refuse the plan on the grounds the site is “poorly served by public transport and is not readily accessible by safe pedestrian or cyclist access, so access is reliant on private motor vehicles”.

WINTER WONDERLAND WINTERININ WONDERLAND With Christmas just around the corner, the team at Adventure With Christmas just around the corner, Wonderland are busy putting together plans forthe theteam most at Adventure Wonderland are busy putting together plans magical Christmas experience!

for the most magical Christmas experience!

Meet Father Christmas in his snowy log cabin and receive a great souvenir gift. Enjoy unlimited play in the Wild Thing Meet Father Christmas in his snowy log cabin and indoor play centre, see Rudolph, meet the elves and get arty in receive a great souvenir the Christmas Craft cabin. gift. Enjoy unlimited play in

the Wild Thing indoor play centre, see Rudolph, meet

Then take your seats for the festive family pantomime, ‘The the elves and get arty in the Christmas Craft cabin. Wizard of Oz!’ Follow the yellow brick road to The Theatre and join Dorothy on her adventures to the Emerald City - meeting Then take your seats for the festive family pantomime, some new friends along the way. If you’ve got the brain, the ‘Theand Wizard of Oz!’just Follow brick road heart the courage, click the youryellow heels together threeto times and “there’sand no place like Wonderland!” Thesay, Theatre join Dorothy on her adventures to the

Emerald City - meeting some new friends along the way.

The team have also added an afternoon of SEN Santa sessions If you’ve the brain,2023. the The heart and the courage, just on Saturdaygot 2 December reduced capacity will ensure that guests a longer visit tothree see Santa and it will to no click yourget heels together times and say,help “there’s reduce the number of guests in the play centre. The afternoon place like Wonderland!” performance of ’The Wizard of Oz’ will be relaxed amended for SEN guests.

Santa’s making a list and checking it twice — fantastic festivemaking familya fun andchecking incredible value money! Santa’s list and it twice — for fantastic festive family fun and incredible value for money! But spaces are But spaces are selling fast so early booking is highly selling fast so early booking is highly recommended to avoid recommended to avoid disappointment. disappointment.

Bookonline online at www.adventurewonderland.co.uk Book at www.adventurewonderland.co.uk

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Events

blackmorevale.net

TOY & TRAIN Collectors Fair

WIMBORNE QE LEISURE CENTRE (BH21 4DT)

Sunday 10th December 10am - 2pm Telephone: 01380 725322 or 07732 330305

GILLINGHAM CRAFTS, Artisan Christmas, Shaftesbury Town Hall, Sunday 17th December 10am - 4.00pm FREE ENTRY CHRISTMAS FAIR & COFFEE MORNING, Saturday 9 December at the Hooper Hall, Lydlinch. 10am to 12:30. Home made produce, handmade chocolates, wreaths, crafts and presents. Admission including coffee and mince pies £3. All proceeds to support St Thomas a Becket Church

SAVE THE DATES CRAFT FAIRS December 9th, 15th, 16th & 22nd The Town Hall , Shaftesbury 9-4.30pm Perfect Christmas shopping locally & under one roof. Supporting Weldmar Hospice and Dorset Somerset Air Ambulance CHRISTMAS BINGO (Lyn’s Bingo) at Marnhull Royal British Legion on Monday 11th December. Eye’s down at 7pm.

Shaftesbury’s new stargazing group

CHRISTMAS SOCIAL & AGM Wednesday 20th December 7.15pm at The Rising Sun (on the A30 - SP7 9LT) New members welcome to share some festive cheer! In 2024: 10th January ‘My Astronomy Life’ talk by Mark Hardaker 14th February Observation Evening

The club welcomes members of all ages & experience to talks & to observe all things night sky. Email: info@cranbornechaseastro.club Web: cranbornechaseastro.club

Pre-Christmas Opening Times Sunday 10th 10am-2pm Mon 11th - Sat 16th 9.30am-5.30pm Mon 18th-Fri 22nd 9.30am-5.30pm Sat 23rd 9am-5.30pm Christmas Eve 9am-3pm

Beautiful Lingerie and Nightwear Fashion Hosiery... Ideal Stocking Filler! Gift Vouchers Available Madam Grés Cabochard Parfumé Opening times: 10am to 5pm 3a Salisbury Street, Shaftesbury

01747 858 758

www.boschenlingerie.co.uk

Lise Charmel Collection ‘Splendeur Soie’ available from

Böschen, Shaftesbury

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Events

blackmorevale.net

CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL 2023, Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 December 11am to 4pm, St Giles Church, Leigh on Mendip BA3 5QJ, Refreshments, light lunches available

SHILLINGSTONE ENGLISH BARN DANCE EVENINGS. The Portman Hall, Blandford Road, Shillingstone, DT11 0SF 5/01, 2/02, 1/03, 5/04 7:15PM for 7:30PM

SUNDAY JANUARY 14th 3-4pm. Poetry and music to celebrate the natural world- a Quaker response. Cheap Street Church, Sherborne, DT9 3BJ Free admission, refreshments provided. Donations to Sherborne Foodbank sherbornequakers@gmail.com

SIXPENNY HANDLEY COMMUNITY CINEMA Barbie Village Hall, Common Road SP5 5NJ Friday 15 December | 6.30 for 7.00 pm £6 | Bar & snacks | Information: 6dhandleyhall@gmail.com

SHAFTESBURY LIBRARY’S CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS ACTIVITIES. Saturday 9th December, 11.00am to 12noon. Booking essential via Eventbrite. For more information call: 01747 852256 or email at shaftesburylibrary@ dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

Visit Mere this Christmas

With things to do, places to shop and places to eat and drink, Mere is a great place to spend some of your Christmas time. Free car parks on Castle Street and Salisbury Street. Do you like walking? - stop in the town centre shops and get the pack of 6 walks created by the Footpath Group. Interested in local history? - pop into the Museum and see the current exhibition and much more. Just want to look around and maybe pick up a present or something for yourself - there is a range of local shops. Spoil yourself and take time for a sit-down meal or a drink in our pubs and cafes. Plenty of take away opportunities if that suits you better.

Mere Museum is open Mon 10 - 7, Tue, Thu, Fri 9:30 - 5 and Wed, Sat 9:30 - 1 Mere Town Council – Mere Chamber of Trade

Harriet Sandys

Oriental Carpets and Decorative Items from Central Asia and India Exotic Christmas Gifts from Around the World.

Saturday 9th December to Sunday 17th December every afternoon 2-5pm

Small Fair trade gifts, stocking fillers, block print tablecloths and Kantha jackets, cushions, Indian cotton nightwear, scarves, gold and silver earrings and much more! The Barn at The Manor House, West Compton, Shepton Mallet BA4 4PB

Tel: 01749 890 582 www.sandysorientalcarpets.co.uk Email: harrietsandys@freeolamail.com

Keane to top the bill at Abbey show

Picture: CalumMew28

Keane will top the bill at Glastonbury Abbey

KEANE will headline the 2024 Glastonbury Abbey Extravaganza concert, it has been announced. The band, who came to prominence after the release of debut album Hopes And Fears, will top the bill at the show on Saturday, August 3. On the night they will be celebrating 20 years since the release of Hopes And Fears, which topped the UK album charts, win a Brit Award for best album and has sold more than 700,000 copies. Also performing in the Abbey’s historic grounds on August 3 will be the Shepton Mallet Big Band, plus special guests, to be announced. The event will conclude with the traditional fireworks finale. Music fans can also make a weekend of it, with overnight options available to book in the nearby campsite, at the foot of Glastonbury Tor. For more details, and to book tickets and camping, log on to www.glastonburyabbey.com. Sadly, due to personal circumstances, Harriet Sandys is closing down her oriental carpet business in the 17th century restored cider barn in West Compton near Shepton Mallet. Harriet started her business importing handwoven Afghan rugs in the early 1980’s while working with Afghan refugees in Pakistan’s north-west Frontier and over the past twenty years the barn became a veritable treasure trove of wonderful and unusual oriental textiles and gifts. In the barn you will find antique carved wood chests and tables from the mountain villages of Swat in northern Pakistan, a fabulous assortment of handwoven silk scarves, block printed tablecloths, quilted bed spreads, cushions and throws from India. On sale too are colourful animal felt slippers for children, block printed cotton kaftans and jackets, dressing gowns, nightwear, table lamps, gold and silver semi-precious stone earrings made by craftsmen living in the desert villages of Rajasthan and antique silver Turkoman jewellery from Afghanistan. There will be a 10% discount off all Persian and Afghan carpets, rugs and runners. The barn is open all week from Saturday 9th to Sunday 17th December 2pm to 5pm. Also open by appointment. Please bring a cheque book as the barn is situated in a valley and the wi-Fi connection for taking credit card payments can be a little unpredictable! Directions www.sandysorientalcarpets.co.uk. Signposted from A361. The Barn at the Manor House, West Compton, Shepton Mallet BA4 4PB. Tel 01749 890 582.

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Letters

blackmorevale.net

Gross iniquity in Council Tax charges DORSET Council’s Spencer Flower has just repeated his annual piece about ‘advocating for fairer funding’ (Dorset Council News, Winter 2023 edition). It’s the same message every year, but nothing happens. Curiously, he failed to mention that Dorset’s Council Tax is the fourth most expensive in the country! Fairer central government funding is one issue, but there is another fundamental flaw that he doesn’t mention – this tax is based on the value of property but is only applied to bands of value up to a ceiling of £320,000, in 1991 figures. After that, it simply fizzlesout, unlike every other tax, and it has not been tweaked in 32 years. This strange mechanism forces the entirety of the tax burden onto those below this ceiling and disregards all property values in excess of it. I suggest that if bands A to H can exist, then just add new bands I to Z, recalibrate the charging structure and collect a lot more revenue – and, most importantly, spread the burden more widely and fairly. The combination of the fairer funding issue and the way this tax stops at an arbitrary point creates grotesque situations such as this: The Holme, NW1 4NT, a house in Regent’s Park, London, was for sale earlier this year for £250 million. It has 40 bedrooms in 29,000 square feet of accommodation, four acres of garden and eight garages. It’s Council Tax bill this year is £1,824. Here in Dorset, my modest house of 725 square feet is billed at £2,222. Size-wise you can squeeze 40 of these houses into the aforementioned palace! Value-wise the multiple is 800. So, a property that is 800 times more valuable and 40 times the size is charged significantly less, by a tax that is based on property value.

This system is so broken and so desperately needs fixing, and has been thus for a very long time, yet 650 MPs are doing nothing about it. It will be interesting to see if this ugly monster gets the attention it needs in 2024, with council and General Elections, possibly both, quite soon after another round of painful Council Tax increases. Clive Pallot, Sherborne

Install lights

YET another accident yesterday at the crossroads on the A30 at East Stour, involving three vehicles. It is a scandal that the council(s) refuse to install traffic lights at this extremely busy junction where there are continual incidents. Lorries are always demolishing the bollard and the wall on the corner is frequently knocked down. Drivers need to look in three directions as well as keeping an eye on the rear mirror. Extreme caution has to be exercised anticipating traffic coming from the south. I always allow oncoming traffic right of way when they are turning right. At the same time however, it is essential to be aware of traffic from the left and especially those travelling from the west. The corner by the church is blind and often cars come like the bats out of hell from that direction. People travelling from the south frequently and incredibly do not always signal to turn right. It is always an accident waiting to happen. Do we have to wait for a fatality? In my opinion, traffic lights are essential. At the Henstridge crossroads, which is a far safer junction, lights have always been there, at least while I have been in the area. I am copying this letter to

our MP in the hope he will take this important issue up with the councils and if necessary, the Highways Agency. We pay one of the highest Council Tax rates in the country and what, in rural areas, do we get for it? We were promised economies of scale when the councils merged. Instead, our tax has continued to rise but it seems to me to be all spent in Bournemouth and Poole. We have few local facilities. The scandalous purchase of St Mary’s, decided by the executive and not a council vote, was an ill thought out venture and has never worked. Indeed, it has been designated not fit for purpose. I have never received an answer to the question of whether or not we have to pay Council Tax to Wiltshire, since the property – Centre of Excellence – lies within that county. The chief executive bragged in a recent New Blackmore Vale that the council has saved millions of pounds over the last five years. We have seen no benefit of this. In its turn, Dorset Council is not fit for purpose. Jeremy Bloomfield Swanston House, East Stour

Items appeal

IN November last year, I lost a number of items after the ambulance and fire brigade were called to my house while I was out. Apparently, a neighbour called to let police know I hadn’t been seen. In fact, I had been in all day and had just left for a meal with a friend! I returned to find my door had been broken and emergency services had been inside, apparently searching for me! However, they obviously didn’t find me and instead, I

later found a number of items missing from the property. They included money and jewellery and I am writing in the hope anyone who is offered items for sale - perhaps in the run-up to Christmas - contact the New Blackmore Vale. For those who are interested - I am still keen to find out what happened and am chasing the police, fire and ambulance services for answers to some of my questions. So please, if you are offered anything a bit out of the ordinary, please email newsdesk@blackmorevale.net. JOHN MATTHEWS Zeals

What a joke! THE chair of Shaftesbury & District Chamber of Commerce, Virginia Edwyn-Jones, hoped locals would support the High Street, Salisbury Street and Bell Street Traders opening late – “as this is a critical time of year for our town’s businesses”. What a joke! Hundreds of people turned up on Monday night, November 27, milling around Shaftesbury, only for local traders and businesses to show total apathy and not bother opening. I would estimate only 15% of shops opened and about 85% could not care less. Obviously not that critical a trading situation, as we were informed? If the chamber of commerce is trying its best, the least local traders could do was support it and open late for one night a year – the response was totally pathetic. No-one should waste time and effort next year, it seemed a disappointing and pointless exercise. Many thanks to Cranbornes and the very few other traders who made the effort to stay open. John Roberts Shaftesbury

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Arts & Entertainment

blackmorevale.net

Accent on youth in Christmas concert

TWO Dorchester singers are taking solo parts in Dorchester Choral Society’s concert this weekend at St Mary’s Church.

The concert is called From Darkness to Light and features music by Purcell, Bruckner and Buxtehude. The second part of the programme is devoted to Schultz’s charming re-telling of the Christmas story, which needs a cast if familiar characters form the Nativity to sing alongside the choir. The part of the Angel Gabriel is taken by Lily Barrett, a sxth former at Thomas Hardye School. This will be her first engagement in a classical choral concert.

Stefan Oakes will sing the part of King Herod. Stefan is an old boy of Thomas Hardye School, now in his early twenties, who is beginning to forge a singing career as a bass/baritone. They will be joined by an old friend of the society, professional baritone Hugh Hetherington, who will be the Evangelist - the narrator - of the piece. Other ensemble roles are taken by choir members. Director of music, Colin Howard, reflecting on creating the line-up, said: “As a choir, we always try to help young singers and to use local professional musicians wherever possible.

Lily Barrett and Stefan Oakes are taking solo parts when they perform with Dorchester Choral Society at St Mary’s Church

“This programme brings those elements together and, as an added bonus, we are also able to showcase the singing talents of our choir members.” Dorchester Choral Society chair, Jane Howard, is confident the concert will help everyone get into the Christmas mood. “This concert has it all,” she

said. “There will be wonderful music that takes us on a journey, from sombre reflection through to a joyful celebration of the Nativity - it is certain to generate a feelgood factor.” The concert is tomorrow December 9) at 7.30pm at St Mary’s Church, in Edward Road, Dorchester.

GOT A STORY? Then email newsdesk@blackmorevale.net Although it is not currently a legal requirement, please consider wearing a face covering to protect yourself and others when visiting the Tivoli.

SHOWADDYWADDY IN CONCERT

NINE BELOW ZERO

PLEA S KE E CHEC EP KIN OU G W E B SR ITE

MADE TO MEASURE PRODUCTIONS PRESENT OUR RECORD BREAKING PANTOMIME

CINDERELLA

Friday 8th December 7.30pm Tickets £28.50/£26 A COUNTRY NIGHT IN NASHVILLE

Saturday 6th January 7.30pm Tickets £30

Saturday 9th December 7.30pm Tickets £25

SUPREME QUEEN Thursday 11th January 7.30pm Tickets £29

Friday 15th December – Monday 1st January Various dates and times – check with Box Office Tickets Adults £19/under 16’s £15 1 in 10 tickets free available via Box Office Plus 3 ADULTS ONLY performances (ages 16+) Friday 29th, Saturday 30th December & Tuesday 2nd January 7.30pm Tickets £19

RAVE ON – THE ULTIMATE 50S & 60S EXPERIENCE

Friday 12th January 7.30pm Tickets £23

LOS PACAMINOS FEATURING PAUL YOUNG Saturday 13th January 7.30pm Tickets £30

NAPOLEON (15) 5th, 8th, 9th & 10th January 7.30pm Matinee 9th January 2.30pm Tickets adult evening: £8.00 Adult Matinee: £7.00 child under 16: £6.00

THE ETERNAL DAUGHTER (12A) 15th & 16th January 7.30pm Matinee 17th January 2pm Tickets adult evening: £8.00 Adult Matinee: £7.00 child under 16: £6.00

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Arts & Entertainment

blackmorevale.net

Feelgood fare for the festive season Members of the cast of Cinderella at Westlands Entertainment Venue PHOTO: Len Copland

Magic, mayhem, comedy and music

PANTO is coming to the Westlands Entertainment Venue in Yeovil when Evolutions Productions presents Cinderella from tonight (Friday, December 8) until New Year’s Eve. The Octagon Theatre in the town is closed for redevelopment and with Evolution was honoured at the UK Pantomime Awards 2023 for last year’s production of Dick Whittington. That was nominated for Best Pantomime (500-900 seats), Best Choreography (Josie Lee) and Best Lighting Design (Kathryn Monkton), and won Best Contribution to Music

(Emma Fraser). Cinderella promises magic, mayhem, comedy, beautiful sets and costumes, and fantastic music. The cast includes Octagon favourites Gordon Cooper and Jack Glanville with Octagon veteran Matt Daines. They will be joined by Yeovil’s own Tash Moore, Damian Patton, Mark Lamb – and Beccy Lane in the title role. For Cinderella performance dates and times, ticket prices and to buy tickets, visit www. westlandsyeovil.co.uk or call the box office on 01935 422884.

Athenaeum Singers’ carol concert date

ALL-COMERS are welcome to join the Athenaeum Singers at their carol concert in Warminster. A mix of familiar carols will be on offer for everyone to sing at Christ Church in Weymouth Street, but visitors can also enjoy choir pieces and solo items. The singers’ dynamic director of music Thomas Mottershead will lead the evening accompanied by their rehearsal accompanist Dr Douglas Stevens. Caitlin Ellis is the guest soprano soloist who will also team with the singers’ director

in a soprano and tenor duet. The choir pieces will include Peter Warlock’s hauntingly beautiful carol Bethlehem Down, which was composed in 1927 and looks from the birth of a baby towards his role as king, and Northern Lights by Ola Gjeilo, along with a couple of arrangements of less familiar carols. The concert is on Tuesday (December 12) at 7.30pm and visitors are invited to join the singers in festive punch and mince pies after the carols. The event is free of charge and tickets are not required, but a retiring collection will be held.

A FEELGOOD romantic comedy about love in later life, regret – and possibly redemption – is being staged at The Corn Exchange, Dorchester, in the run up to the festive season. This Christmas, written by local writers James Cuthill and Vince Jones, has a cast full of local acting talent. The actors have been preparing since September with rehearsals involving several Christmas trees, numerous suitcases and lots of mince pies. Vince, who also takes on directing duties with help from professional actress Sue Wylie, said: “It’s been wonderful

bringing the play to life with our talented cast. “It is a classic Christmas story of family, internet dating mistakes, regrets and the possibility of redemption.” James added: “It was great fun to write, and it’s making us laugh out loud in rehearsals. “This Christmas might just be the Christmas for the characters in the play. Let’s hope so anyway!” James and Vince have previously written and staged Tipping Point, which raised money for Dorchester Arts and children’s hospice Julia’s House. Their plays have been staged by other groups around the country. This Christmas, which will raise funds for Dorchester Arts, is on Saturday and Sunday, December 16-17. Tickets are available at www.dorchesterarts. org.uk or by phone 01305 266926.

THE cast of Mere Amateur Dramatic Society’s production of Murdered to Death take a bow. MADS staged Peter Gordon’s play in memory of group stalwart Di Potter, who died this year. Christina Day made her debut with MADS, Fenella Perriman helping out as backstage crew for the first time.

PHOTO: George Jeans

Saturday 16th December

Wednesday 20th December

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Church • Anglican High Mass at Wimborne St Giles: First Sunday of each month at 11am. BH21 5LZ. • Blandford Methodist Church: Sundays – everyone is invited to Sunday services at 10.45am and to stay for refreshments. Thursdays – coffee and a chat from 10amnoon. Fridays – lunch club for the over-55s from noon at £5 per meal. Phone Joyce Wild on 07817 505543 to book. The church is anxious to offer help to all those in need – call church steward John Cornish on 07799 516735 or leave a message. • Chalbury Church: Fourth Sunday of the month, 10.30am Holy Communion. • Cheap Street Church, Sherborne: Sherborne Churches Together is running a Christmas Tree Festival from Saturday to Saturday, December 2-9. The group is seeking stewards to cover hourly slots. If you can help, contact the curate, Becca, who is at Longburton and the Abbey in the coming weeks (rev.becca. mcdonnell@gmail.com). • Friends of Holnest Church: An evening of music and readings by Stanchester Quire at Holnest Church (DT9 5PU) on Friday, December 8, at 7pm. Phone Graham on 01963 210632 for booking. • Gillingham Methodist Church: Sunday recitals 3pm (about one hour). Admission free, retiring collection. Superb two manual William Sweetland organ restored and enlarged in 2006/2009. Video screen. For details and updates visit the website at www.musicatgmc. org.uk or phone 07817 379006. • Hinton Martell: Second

blackmorevale.net Sunday of the month, 10.30am Holy Communion. • Horton Church: First Sunday of the month, 10.30am Holy Communion. • Horton & Chalbury village hall: Third Sunday of the month, 9am Breakfast Church. • Kingston Lacy: Second Sunday of the month, 9.15am Holy Communion. Fourth Sunday of the month, 9.15am Family Service. • Lower Stour Benefice: Sunday, December 3 – 10.45am Together Communion at St John The Baptist Church, Spetisbury; 4pm Christingle at St Mary The Virgin Church, Charlton Marshall. Sunday, December 10 – 9.30am Communion at St Mary’s Church, Blandford St Mary; 11am Communion at All Saints, Langton Long; 11am Christingle at St Mary’s Church, Tarrant Rushton. Sunday, December 17 – 9.30am Family Carol Service at St Mary The Virgin Church, Charlton Marshall; 3pm Carols by Candlelight at All Saints, Langton Long; 6pm Carols by Candlelight at All Saints, Tarrant Keyneston; 6.30pm Carols by Candlelight at St John The Baptist Church, Spetisbury. Tuesday, December 19 – 6pm Carols by Candlelight at St Mary’s Church, Blandford St Mary. Wednesday, December 20 – 5.30pm Family Christmas Celebration at St Mary’s Church, Blandford St Mary. Coffee and cake – Spetisbury 10-11.30am first and third Monday each month; coffee and cake – Blandford St Mary 10-11.30am, December 21; coffee stop – Charlton Marshall Parish Centre 10.30am-

DORSET CHAMBER CHOIR CHRISTMAS CONCERT “Noel, Noel - Carols, Songs and Anthems for Christmas-tide” Monday 18th December, 7:00pm Broadstone Methodist Church, Lower Blandford Road, Broadstone, BH18 8DP. Tickets £15 (Under 16s free) CHRISTMAS FAIR & COFFEE MORNING, Saturday 9 December at the Hooper Hall, Lydlinch. 10am to 12:30. Home made produce, handmade chocolates, wreaths , crafts and presents. Admission including coffee and mince pies £3. All proceeds to support St Thomas a Becket Church

12.30pm, Tuesday to Friday. • Lillington: All morning services at Lillington now begin at 9.30am. • Our Lady’s RC Church, Marnhull: Mass Sunday, 9am and 6pm. • Shaftesbury Quakers (Society of Friends): Meets for one hour each Sunday from 10.30am at the Quaker Meeting House, Abbey Walk, Shaftesbury SP7 8BB. • Sherborne Abbey: Monday to Saturday, 8.30am Morning Prayer; The Sepulchre Chapel. Mondays, 9am CW Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Tuesday, noon CW Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Wednesday, 10.30am Holy Communion with Homily; The Lady Chapel (alternates CW and BCP). Thursday, noon BCP Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Friday, 9am Ecumenical Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. First Friday of the month, 9am Requiem Holy Communion; The Sepulchre Chapel. Third Friday of the month, 11am Remembering the Fallen. Saturday, 9am CW Holy Communion; The Sepulchre Chapel. • Sacred Heart, Tisbury, and All Saints’ Wardour Catholic Parish: Sunday Mass times – Sacred Heart, Tisbury 9am, coffee after Mass; All Saints’ Wardour 10.30am. • Shapwick: Third Sunday of the month, 9.15am Holy Communion. • Sherborne Quakers: Meet Sundays 10.30am in the Griffiths Room, Digby Memorial Church Hall. Everyone welcome. • St Benedict’s RC Church, Gillingham: Sunday, 11am. • St Gregory’s, Marnhull: Sunday services 8am and 10am. Other services please visit the website at www. stgregorysmarnhull.org.uk • St James Church, Shaftesbury: Carol service by Candlelight on Tuesday, December 19, 7pm. • St John’s (CofE) Church, Enmore Green, Shaftesbury: Service every Sunday at

11.15am; parish communion on the first Sunday of the month; prayer services every other Sunday. • St Mary’s, Sturminster Newton: First, third and fourth Sundays – 11am Holy Communion; second Sunday – 9.30am Morning Prayer; fifth Sunday – 11am Benefice Holy Communion; second and fourth Sundays – 6pm Evensong; Wednesdays – 10am Holy Communion. • St Peter’s, Hinton St Mary: First, second and third Sundays, 9.30am Morning Prayer. Fourth Sunday, 9.30am Holy Communion. • St Thomas’, Lydlinch: Second and fourth Sunday, 11am Holy Communion. Third Sunday, 6pm Evensong. • West Camel Independent Methodists: Meeting at All Saints Church (BA22 7QB). Sunday, December 10, 10am — United Christingle Service; 3pm — afternoon service. Sunday, December 17. 3pm — United carol service. Wednesday, December 20, 7pm — United Carols on the Green. Sunday, December 31, 3pm — United service. Phone 01935 850838 or email Geoff.mead@ yahoo.com • Witchampton Church: Third Sunday of the month, 10.30am Holy Communion. • Sacred Heart, Tisbury, and All Saints, Wardour: Christmas masses. Christmas Eve, Sunday, December 24, Sacred Heart Tisbury – First Mass of Christmas, carols at 5.30pm, Mass at 6pm, Midnight Mass at 11.30pm. Christmas Day, Monday, December 25, Sacred Heart, Tisbury – Mass at Dawn 9am; All Saints’ Wardour (SP3 6RH), Mass of the Day 10.30am. • Salamanca Band of the Rifles Christmas concert: On Saturday, December 9, at 7.30pm in Sherborne Abbey. Free entry, everyone welcome, retiring collection. • Sherborne Abbey Mothers’ Union: The Mothers’ Union carol service in the Lady Chapel on Friday, December 8, at 10am. Everyone welcome.

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Politics

blackmorevale.net

Tax burden and Tory party rhetoric RECORD-BREAKING tax cuts’, proclaimed the Chancellor as he gave his Autumn Statement the other week. Yet, taxes are at their highest sustained level since the Second World War. And this parliament is set to be the biggest taxraising parliament ever. How can both these things be true? The answer is something called ‘fiscal drag’. We have endured rampant levels of inflation, but the Government has not increased the tax bands to account for it. More and more people are now paying tax because the personal tax-free allowance of £12,570 has not increased with inflation. The higher rate tax band still starts at £50,000, despite £50,000 being worth £5,500 less than three years ago. Despite the rhetoric, this Tory government will be remembered as one that kept increasing taxes.

Alan Cross, on behalf of Dorset Labour What else did the Autumn Statement bring? 110 measures to promote growth and help businesses. Crikey. What business needs is a stable tax regime which it can make long-term investments against. The full expensing of capital investment is welcome, but how many businesses can stay across

all this micro meddling? Thankfully, the Office of Budget Responsibility can. And it downgraded the UK’s growth forecasts because of Hunt’s budget. Oh dear. Indeed, hidden from the Treasury’s announcements until the OBR exposed it was the impact on public spending. Hunt has pencilled in £19 billion of real terms departmental cuts by 2027. Economists agree that for an already cash-starved public sector, this is completely unrealistic. So, if everyone else has stopped believing them, are the Tories a party that still believe in themselves? Do they believe they will win the next election? I think not. They don’t think they’ll be in government. They’ve used all the fiscal headroom they had for headline-grabbing tax cuts, to help keep a few more seats. And they’ll leave Labour to clear up

their economic mess. Does that line sound familiar? We lost Alastair Darling last week – the last Chancellor in the last Labour government. For years, Hunt, Osborne et al attacked him, blaming him for the 2008 financial crisis and its aftermath. Now Darling is dead, what do they have to say? Hunt called him ‘one of the great Chancellors, he’ll be remembered for doing the right thing for the country at a time of extraordinary turmoil.’ Osborne said Darling was ‘someone who brought out the best of politics…Always trying to do the right thing’; someone who ‘earned a lot of trust with the way he handled that crisis.’ How sad it is that it takes the death of someone before they are appreciated. And before the truth is told. In our politics, ‘nothing is true, everything is permitted’. The assassin’s creed.

West Germany did in the 1980s. My constituents won’t directly feel it in their lived experience. GDP per capita, by contrast, gives a real sense of how the average person is faring. Take France, our closest continental neighbour. French GDP per capita was higher than ours in 2010 – Frenchmen were richer than Brits – but it’s come in lower than the British equivalent each year since 2012. As an aside, I’m bound to point out that in 2016 the mainstream media was telling us that Brexit would cause the sky to fall in. Plainly not. Sir Keir Starmer has been suggesting that Poles will be richer than Britons by 2030. He implies that Poland is a backward country and invites us to be shocked by its economic growth compared with Western Europe. I represent a significant Polish community. Sir Kier is skating on thin ice. In any

event, his claim that Poles are overtaking Brits is just not supported by per capita GDP figures – look them up. Nationalised railways are a thing of the past. Or are they? Franchising, regulation, subsidy and price control mean that the State retains tight control of the network – correctly in my view. We have seen that in the Government’s intervention on ticket office closures. Plainly unpopular with the public – I have four mainline stations in my patch – the train operators have been obliged to go back to the drawing board. Can I suggest ticket pricing simplicity, the reinvention of proper, platform-based, station masters and the end of constant onboard ticket checking often within minutes of purchase. There has to be a better way to run a railway. Train operating companies must buck up or ship out.

‘Media accentuates the negative’ NEWSHOUNDS in this country are nose blind when it comes to good news. Always sniffing for ‘ain’t it awful’ and ‘gotcha’ type stories, they project a bonkers image of constant chaos and catastrophe. Meanwhile, in the real world, inflation has been halved even as wages have increased. The impact of that for my constituents has been rusticated to a few peripheral column inches and graveyard broadcast slots. So, we had better seek out facts for ourselves rather than consume the UK media’s refraction of them. This week I have been immersing myself in data from the World Bank. The picture that emerges is no fairytale. But what stands out is that this country, having been through the wringer like everyone else, is emerging in good order compared to the bulk of countries with which we

Conservative MP for South West Wiltshire Dr Andrew Murrison can reasonably be compared, particularly in the EU. The key is figures that matter. GDP is pretty meaningless. It can be artificially inflated, for example, with an open borders policy as

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Politics

blackmorevale.net

Tax system ‘unfair’ on rural areas I KNOW cost-of-living difficulties are a very real concern for many people and a key priority for me is to ensure as much as possible is done to help. A few days ago, I led a well-attended debate on the topic of rural council funding, something which ultimately impacts all of us who pay Council Tax in West Dorset. I’ve spoken on many occasions in Parliament to call for reform to enable a fairer system of taxation and service provision for rural residents – only in January I led a debate on the related topic of government grant to councils. I don’t believe that we in rural areas receive fairness on matters that affect council finances – and ultimately affecting Council Tax. On average, those living in rural Britain pay 20% more Council Tax a head than those in urban

Conservative MP for West Dorset Chris Loder areas. In everyday terms, this means that a typical band D Council Tax bill in West Dorset – or in any rural constituency for that matter – will be more than £2,000 a year. This alone

demonstrates the need for reform to rectify this taxation imbalance. The frozen Local Government Funding Formula, provision of adult social care and retained business rates are all reasons for an excess burden of taxation affecting those living in rural areas. I’m glad to have secured the debate in Parliament to outline the gravity of the situation facing rural residents in West Dorset. I will continue to push for reform of rural councils’ funding in Parliament, which would reduce the burden on West Dorset’s local taxpayers. In other news, it was great to visit my old primary school, All Saints in Bishops Caundle, a few weeks ago. I was a pupil at the school over 30 years ago, and never did I expect to become the Member of Parliament for West Dorset. It was a real privilege to speak to

all the children at the school and to share my message with them, that they should always aim high and keep going. There’s also been good news concerning the closure of the only post box in Bradford Abbas. Following my intervention with the Royal Mail, a replacement post box is to be installed as close to the war memorial as possible. This is expected to happen within the next 12-16 weeks. In the meantime, postmen and women delivering to addresses in the Bradford Abbas area are more than happy to collect mail bearing the appropriate postage directly from residents. As always, if you’d like to contact me about any of the above, or have an issue or concern, please email me at hello@chrisloder.co.uk. You can also keep up to date with all my news on my website, at www.chrisloder.co.uk.

healthcare services in Somerton & Frome. The Government will be cutting the NHS budget by £5 billion next year, despite the huge pressure our services are under. Somerset is blighted by dental deserts and people are turning to DIY dentistry in desperation. Queues for pharmacies are stretching across corners and people are unable to get a GP appointment. The Liberal Democrats would have put the £13 billion fiscal headroom the Chancellor had going into the statement, into our NHS, providing the quality care we deserve and allowing more people to return to work to grow our economy. I also took part in a debate on the funding of rural councils, in which I spoke about the challenges Somerset Council is under as a result of the previous

Conservative administration’s mishandling of its finances and the increased cost of adult and children’s social care. Without urgent support from the Government, I fear that lives will be foreshortened. Rural councils face higher costs in delivering services and the fair funding review is urgently needed to provide them with support. In the constituency, I held my first open forum in Somerton, where I was able to meet constituents and answer their questions about the work I’m doing on their behalf. It was great to see so many constituents turn up and I look forward to more opportunities to meet the people I represent. As always, if you would like to get in touch you can write to me at sarah.dyke.mp@ parliament.uk.

Debate highlights rural problems IN Westminster last week I was able to hold my first debate, which was titled ‘Government support for rural communities’. I used this as an opportunity to highlight some of the challenges rural communities such as Somerton & Frome are facing, and asked the Minister for Water and Rural Growth to take heed of these concerns. I raised my worries about how closures to post offices and local shops and poor public transport infrastructure will affect the rural economy and prevent growth. I also highlighted how those in rural areas are more heavily impacted by the cost-of-living crisis than their urban counterparts and demonstrated why the Government needs to tailor policies towards rural areas. I was also able to take part in

Liberal Democrat MP for Somerton & Frome Sarah Dyke the Autumn Statement debate, in which I called on the Government to do more to fund

DO YOU HAVE A STORY? Then email newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Politics

blackmorevale.net

On life as a Government Minister… MAY I begin this little ‘offering’ by expressing my heartfelt thanks to all of those who have contacted me to congratulate me and wish me well on my appointment to serve as the Local Government Minister at the Department of Levelling Up, Housing & Communities. Those words of encouragement from constituents have meant a lot, and have sustained me, as I have faced into a very steep learning curve entitled: ‘how to be a Government Minister’. As I write I have already attended 40 meetings with a range of Civil Servants and outside bodies, replied to two Adjournment Debates in the House, replied to two Westminster Hall Debates and been interrogated by the Commons Select Committee for two hours. In at the deep end in every sense of the term! As I type I am also preparing for Departmental Oral Questions in the Commons, a Statutory Instrument in Committee and a session with the House of Lords Constitutional Committee. My working day, which was already pretty full, now begins at around 6am and finishes with doing my evening ‘box’ of

Conservative MP for North Dorset Simon Hoare papers to be reviewed, strategies to sign off etc. It is challenging, demanding and hugely satisfying. A question I have been asked is ‘what does your Ministerial appointment mean for North Dorset?’ In a slightly contradictory answer, it means a lot and yet it also means nothing. As a member of the Government, I can no longer speak in debates or ask questions of Ministers. My only speaking role is as Minister. I can, and will, still continue to

meet Ministers, write to Government departments and represent my constituents’ interests on the issues they raise with me. I hope it will be helpful to have that sensible, rural constituency voice and view of North Dorset within the Government. I have already made some changes to policy based on what I have heard from constituents, for example, highlighting the need for additional funding to deliver services in rural areas where the population is thinly spread. So, in short, North Dorset’s voice is very much ‘at the heart of Government’. So, from that standpoint being a Minister can and will be helpful. But, the best thing is that it makes no difference at all. In some democracies, when a politician is made a Minister, a Civil Servant is appointed to undertake all constituency duties. So, holding advice surgeries, visiting schools, businesses, charities, attending local events, reading constituents’ correspondence, all would be done by an official and not by the elected representative. I would hate this system. It would divorce me from ‘the real

world’ and remove the opportunity to hear at first hand the issues of concern from residents. A gap would open up. I am first and foremost the Member of Parliament for North Dorset. It is to my constituents to whom I am accountable. It is because of the support of my constituents that I serve as an MP with the potential to also be a Minister. It should never be an either-or – it must always be both. Our system is of far greater benefit to the electors and elected. And now for a random pub quiz ‘fact’ – the famous red boxes that we see Ministers carry are very heavy because they are lead lined. I often wondered why. I have now found out. It is nothing to do with fire or bomb resistance, instead it allowed Ministers and ambassadors to – when you could only travel by sea – drop your red box over the side if being attacked by the enemy or pirates etc. That way the State Papers and secrets would sink immediately to the bottom and remain secret from our enemies. I hope I never have to throw mine in the Thames or Stour! Until then I shall continue practising my lead-lined weightlifting training.

Reader’s picture of the week

New Blackmore Vale reader Derek Philpott took this photo in the summer of a Dutch barn alongside the A354 at Sixpenny Handley.

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023 BLACKMORE VALE

THE NEW

MAGAZINE

Edition 84

Z 10

Arrow words Duo

Notion

Kept

Small, pointed missile

Forwardlooking

Lit-up

Film director, Spike

Male cat

4 3

Place where bees live

Odd; peculiar

16 16

15 15 17 17

Little

Ottoman commanders

High __ _ kite (2,1)

Evita’s real name

Things To Do With Eggs

BAKE BOIL BUY COOK COOL CRACK EAT FRY

S L R Y L O W H I P H S S S O

F T P F C T K K O R I Y C B P

E T K I O O O R T H I O L A W T P W H E K B L H W O C S K T

Y K O S E S R R A A O B A K E

H W A B I S O O T T E S S A T

O L L L I K O A A O A Y F T S

Y C T L O A H B S I U R E S W

LAY SALT SELL STORE TASTE THROW WHIP WHISK

20 20

23 23

Across

Wordsearch O O I A H L L E S I O C K F T

22 22

Paeans

C L S L A E T E R S O C O L I

19 19

21 21

Reverent

F1’s neighbour

Celestial body

Short, thin branch

Chums

18 18

Conceits

14 14

Conjecture

‘I agree’

13 13

Pond organism

Meddle

8 9

Familiar version of Abraham

Crossword

Dated expression of surprise (2,3)

Self-critical conscience

Z 10

P Y O S L O A L T O Y L I K R

O O T O Y I C O E S O L I O R

S O W K K C O A W R U C I B E L T W I T S H F R E O O W B B

E R S A H L E A F S B L R I C

Across 1 Cut out (7) 1 Cut out (7) 5 Double-reeded instrument (4) 5 Double-reeded instrument(7) (4) 9 Tinkers with something 10 Portals (5)something (7) 9 Tinkers with 11 Chosen 10 Portals (5) (5) 12 To settle 11 Chosen (5) comfortably (6) 14 settle Funnycomfortably people (6) (6) 12 To 16 Savage (6) (6) 14 Funny people 18 Furtive 16 Savage (6) (6) 19 Relating to the sun (5) 18 Furtive (6) 22 Impulses (5) 19 Relating to the sun (5) 23 Contaminates (7) 22 Impulses (5) 24 Feudal slave (4) 23 Contaminates 25 Futile (7) (7) 24 Feudal slave (4) 25 Futile (7)

Down 2Down Cabin (5) 23Cabin (5) (11) Statesmen 34Statesmen Relieving (6)(11) Pamphlet(6) (7) 46Relieving If not (4) (7) 67Pamphlet act (7) 78IfIllegal not (4) 10 Anxiety-causing (11) 8 Illegal act (7) 13Anxiety-causing Bouquet provider(11) (7) 10 15Bouquet Boss (7) provider (7) 13 17 Song words (6) 15 Boss (7) 20 Does not include (5) 17 Song words (6) 21 Sheds (4)

20 Does not include (5) 21 Sheds (4)

Sudoku

5 6

9 6 5 3

4 2 3

2 7

9 7 3

7 9

7 8 2

7 5

2 8

1 4 7

6 9

3 6

Brain chain 20

RESULT

-50%

+41

×1/3

+40

÷3

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Z 10

Jumbo sudoku

2 1 8 1

9 6 5

4 3 5

2 4

Edition 84

7 6

9 1 5

8 9

3 1 6

5 1

15 13

5 9

21 1

22 4

21 6

23 24 10

Across Do Down 1 Throw out some destitute victims (5) 2 Stri 12 2 Stringed instrument I love with lecturer in 4 Brilliant red vehicle left in group (7) Virg Virginia 9 Gift in party before(5)race (8) 3 Ref 3 Refined clubs with notes young woman in5char 9 Gift in party before race (8) 10 Indifferent couple of identical (2-2) Ret for mountain peaks (6) as modern 6 Tiro Retro company reconfigured 10 Indifferent couple of identical notes (2-2)11 Service5provided 13provided 15 16 formerly 14 Elba to the(5) 7 Eur 6 Tiro’s cookedon Swiss dish 11 Service for mountain peaks (6)12 Like Napoleon French? 7 (5) European at the back of boat coming Asi fro 12 Like Napoleon formerly on Elba to the 13 Record in ground is challenged (4) 8 Dis Asia? (7) French? (5) 15 Criticism normal on reflection (3) 14 Lay Sudoku 8 Discriminating flier defiant after disruptio 138 Record inKiller ground is challenged (4) 16 19 Colour not good for spike 16 Bra 17 numbers 18 1 to 9 20 (4) 14 Lay on informal starters to lunch in court 15 CriticismPlace normal on reflection (3) 17 Argument in France and Norway producing rem 16 Braced framework that is large in Italian 16 Colour not good for spike (4) once each into every stern look (5) 18 Go removed (7) husband in French 17 Argument in France andand Norway producing 19 Terrible miser detaining 20 Sec row, column 18 Goods supplied in sequence (5) stern look (5) city (6) pla 21 bold-lined 3x3 box. 22 21 Child 20 is holding new brand (4) Second rental property erected – or rest 19 Terrible miser detaining husband in French 22 Annoy educated woman in complicated No didgit may be place for drivers? (5) 8 city (6) rite (8) 21 Child is holding new repeated inbrand any (4) 22 Annoy educated woman in complicated23 Surprise beginning by the French (7) 23 dash-lined cage, and 24knit group round musical 24 Tightly rite (8) instrument (5) all the digits in any

Place 1 to 9 once into every black-bordered 3x3 area as well as Across 1 Throw11 out some destitute victims (5) each of the 54 rows indicated by the coloured lines. Rows don’t 4 Brilliant red vehicle left in group (7) cross the thick black lines.

Killer sudoku 22

Brain chain (hard version) 61

23 Surprise beginning by the French (7) cage must addmusical up to 24 Tightly knit group round Across instrument the(5)value shown in

1 Throw 20 out some destitute victims (5) that cage. 4 Brilliant red vehicle left in group (7) 9 Gift in party before race (8) 10 Indifferent couple of identical notes (2-2) 11 Service provided for mountain peaks (6) 12 Like Napoleon formerly on Elba to the French? (5) 20 13 Record in ground is challenged (4) 15 Criticism normal on reflection (3) 16 Colour not good for spike (4) 17 Argument in France and Norway producing stern look (5) 19 Terrible miser detaining husband in French city (6) 21 Child is holding new brand (4) 22 Annoy educated woman in complicated rite (8) 23 Surprise beginning by the French (7) 24 Tightly knit group round musical instrument (5)

RESULT

-12

+68

÷3

+75

9 8

6 8 9 4 5

MAGAZINE

3 5

7 2

7 5 2

Cryptic crossword 2 6 4

6 8

THE NEW

BLACKMORE VALE

×5/6

Down 2 Stringed instrument I love with lecturer in Virginia (5) 3 Refined clubs with young woman in charge (7) 5 Retro company reconfigured as modern (12) 6 Tiro’s cooked Swiss dish (5) 7 European at the back of boat coming from Asia? (7) 8 Discriminating flier defiant after disruption (12) 14 Lay on informal starters to lunch in court (7) 16 Braced framework that is large in Italian city I removed (7) 18 Goods supplied in sequence (5) 20 Second rental property erected – or resting place for drivers? (5)

For the solutions, turn to page 72

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Antiques & Collectibles

It’s the oddities that sell well...

ACREMAN St Auctioneers & Valuers Sherborne is happy to advise anyone having a tidy up in the run up to Christmas, going through items in the loft, or perhaps dealing with the contents of a house, if they find any items they may want to sell. It is the oddities and unusual items the usually turn out to be interesting. What is saleable has changed so much over recent years – the tea set granny told you was worth a fortune is probably not saleable but the items you may have discounted are likely to be the items that will sell. Look out for Oriental ceramics and carved jade items, antique and modern costume jewellery, gold and silver, antique photograph albums and ephemera, old toys, dolls and teddies, stamps and coins,

fountain pens, penknives and other desk-related items, old watches and pocket watches, even if they are not working. Mid-20th century items including furniture are now also collectable. Acreman is happy to advise on anything you may be considering for auction – email photographs to auction@ acremanstreetantiques.co.uk or take in items to the saleroom – open Monday to Saturday 9am-4pm – for it to look at. For more information contact Gill Norman on 07908 333577 or 01935 50874, or email auction@acremanstreet antiques.co.uk. Acreman holds a valuation day every Wednesday 10am4pm at Acreman Auction, 121 Acreman Street, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3PH.

blackmorevale.net

Painting packs a Punch (and Judy) A PAINTING by Campbell Mellon, of a Punch and Judy show on the beach (pictured), is estimated at £8,000-£10,000 in the Charterhouse specialist picture auction on Thursday, January 4. “The painting is of a summer’s day at the beach, which certainly feels a long way away as we are in the depths of winter,” said Richard Bromell, from the auction house. Consigned for a client in Leicestershire, it is of Gorleston Beach, Norfolk, which Campbell Mellon loved to paint. Charterhouse is now accepting further entries for its forthcoming

specialist auctions of pictures, books and antiques in January with classic cars and classic motorcycles in March. Richard Bromell and the Charterhouse team can be contacted for advice and valuations at The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, on 01935 812277 or via info@charterhouse-auction. com.

ACREMAN ST. AUCTIONEERS & VALUERS SHERBORNE

AUCTION GENERAL ANTIQUES, JEWELLERY, SILVER, WATCHES & COLLECTABLES

Friday 29th December No Physical Viewing.

Please see the catalogue online through easyliveauction.com & Thesaleroom.com

C1900 Steiff bear Hammer £1,300

Catalogue available to view through thesaleroom.com & Easyliveauction.com We are now accepting items for our December auction.

For all enquiries please contact Gill Norman on 07908 333577 or 01935 508764 auction@acremanstreetantiques.co.uk

27th March

4th January

7th March

Specialist Valuation Days Pictures, Books, Maps & Postcards 11th Doulton, Worcester & other Ceramics 12th Stamps, Coins, Medals & Militaria 13th Silver, Jewellery & Watches 14th Model Cars, Trains, Toys & Dolls 15th

Classic Motorcycle Auction 7th March Classic Car Auction 27th March Further Entries Now Being Accepted

01935 812277 • www.charterhouse-auction.com

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023 blackmorevale.net

Advertiser’s announcement

Three-day sale with 2,000 lots CLARKE’S Auctions at Semley is preparing for its three-day sale between Christmas and New Year on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, December 27, 28 and 29. This is traditionally the auction house’s biggest sale of the year with Clarke’s offering about 2,000 lots, which will attract buyers all around the globe. The Christmas sale features many small and interesting items and anyone who feels they have something which would appeal is asked to contact Clarke’s as soon as possible. The auction house will be offering a fine selection of jewellery, gold and silver, collectables, watches, ceramics and glass, paintings, textiles and wall hangings, Asian art and ceramics and lots more.

There will also be a charming still life oil painting of goldfinches among flowers by Sir Cedric Lockwood Morris. He is well known for his primitive post-impressionist style. Other items for sale are an early 18th century Delft dish estimated at £300-£500; a Jaeger Le Coultre Club automatic wristwatch, £300£400; and a 19th century Anglo-Indian Sadeli sewing box, £300-£400. To arrange a home visit, or to value items for consignment into this or future sales, or for any other valuation enquiries, phone Richard Clarke or Karen Marshall on 01747 855109 at Clarke’s main offices on Kingsettle Business Park, Station Road, Semley, Shaftesbury SP7 9BU.

Antiques & Collectibles

High demand for Asian art DUKE’S final Asian Art auction of 2023 on November 29 saw triumphant results, Asian art once again proving itself a giant of the auction industry. International bidders flocked to the online emporium and even the most unassuming item ignited fierce competition. Not simply figures of beauty, nor rusted relics of sentimental value, Asian art blends beauty and historical gravity, while remaining anchored in Asian cultural pride. A highlight of the auction was the sale of ‘a large Chinese blue and white bitong’. A bidding war followed the

announcement of the handsome pot, resulting in it exceeding its £4,000-£6,000 estimate by a large margin, eventually selling for £27,500, inclusive of buyer’s premium. The results of this auction prove the market for Asian art shows no sign of diminishing in wonderment and curiosity. It also marks a great start for Duke’s triumvirate of December sales, closing the year on its 200th anniversary. Duke’s is inviting entries for its Spring Asian Art auction – get in touch to organise a free and confidential valuation with a specialist either through enquiries@dukes-auctions.com or on 01305 265080.

Clarke’s Auctions

Auctioneers & Valuers

Christmas Antiques & Collectables Sale Thursday 28th, Friday 29th and Saturday 30th December Viewing Wednesday 20th, Thursday 21st, Friday 22nd December and Wednesday 27th December

FRANCIS PICABIA (1879-1953) ‘Effets de neige, bords de l’Yonne’ oil on canvas, 65cm x 92cm Sold for £100,000

Cedric Lockwood Morris (1889-1982) - Study of Goldfinches Amongst Flowers - oil on board. Colour catalogue available at the-saleroom.com and easyliveauction.com

Units 1 & 2 Kingsettle Business Park,

01747 855109

enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk

Duke’s Brewery Square Dorchester Dorset DT1 1GA

CONFIDENTIAL VALUATIONS

Tel: 01305 265080 enquiries@dukes-auctions.com www.dukes-auctions.com

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Antiques & Collectibles STOURHEAD ANTIQUE & VINTAGE FAIR – 16th & 17th December 11am – 3pm Stourton Memorial Hall, Spread Eagle Courtyard. 07720 896129 WANTED VINYL RECORDS, Classical Jazz Rock etc Call James 07970 769946 WANTED Classic Cars & Motorbikes. For private collection Call 07885 373113 or 01278 431244 Graham WANTED Books, collectables and bric-a-brac. 07542 389447

Antique & Classic Clock Repairs & Restoration Longcase Clocks a speciality Antique Clock sales

Clocks Unlimited

Tel: (01935) 423233 Mobile: 07974 520545 bclocksunlimited@aol.com www.clocksunlimited.co.uk

WE BUY RECORDS, COLLECTIONS LARGE AND SMALL Call BILL 07967 816506 or 01747 811100 Email: bill@tunes.co.uk

blackmorevale.net We’re coming back

Just like the Old Days

PASTIMES

of Sherborne (near the Abbey) Thirty years of dealing in antique and Collectible Toys. Top prices paid for all types of model railway, die cast cars, early Action Man and Star Wars, Scalextric, Meccano, unmade Airfix kits etc. Those magical makes; Hornby, Dinky, Triang, Spot-On, Corgi, Subbuteo, Britains, Timpo plus plus plus Telephone: 01935 816072 Mobile: 07527 074343 COVID SAFE

The New Blackmore Vale Magazine DEADLINES

Display ads must be booked by Wednesday the week prior to publication, with final copy submitted by the Friday. Classified ads may be accepted after this, HOWEVER these will be subject to space.

Next Sale Watches, Jewellery, Silver & Coins; 20th Century Pictures & Decorative Arts; Toys, Dolls & Games; and Antique Furniture & Objects

Saturday 9th December For a full list of our specialist sales please see our website

I have a large private collection of French and English antique furniture, antique architectural items, interesting antiquities and objects d’art for home et gardens. I return to Dorset monthly with fresh items from my collection. Open 7 days, but please check as I may be away on delivering.

A Chinese carved celadon jade ducks group.

I look forward to your visit!

SOLD FOR £35,000 For free verbal valuations please contact Station Road, Semley, Shaftesbury SP7 9AN 01747 855122 www.semleyauctioneers.com

Come and see the collection at: The Antiques Barn, Unit 7 and 8, Woodrow Dairy, The Common, Hazelbury Bryan, DT10 2AH

and South Kensington, London

TRADE ENQUIRIES WELCOME

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Home & Garden

blackmorevale.net

Persian Ironwood adds a little winter colour By Sally Gregson AT last autumn is flaming to a close and the monotones of winter are approaching fast. The apparent quiet in our gardens is an excellent opportunity to plan for next year. It is worth noting which trees and shrubs have put up an especial vibrancy so that any planting plans can be confirmed or altered. One of the best displays this year has been from the Persian Ironwood, Parrotia persica. This will eventually make a medium-sized, wide tree up to five or six metres tall and across, and will fill a gap in the canopy within 10 years. Its leaves achieve their colour as the light breaks down the green, the chlorophyll,

leaving red and gold to brighten its surroundings. In the winter months Parrotia produces little red flowers on bare branches that are small but significant at a dark time of year. Cold, frosty nights and bright, sunny days enhance this action, and our autumn colours rock the garden throughout the month of November. Another effect of the phytohormones that increase with the shortening days, is the formation of an ‘abscissional layer’ at the bottom of each leaf stem. This is the technical term for a thickening of the cells that eventually mean the leaf will drop off its twig. This occurs, of course, only on deciduous trees and shrubs. Evergreens remain in leaf.

By Sally Gregson IN the great walled vegetable gardens of yesteryear fruit was grown and trained against the walls with great skill to produce heavy crops and look decorative. Each wall was used for different fruits according to its aspect. The sunny, warm southfacing walls were often almost frost-proof and thus could be used to raise crops of peaches and apricots. The flues of coal-fires were channelled through the walls to provide additional warmth on cold nights. These days, although we no longer light fires to warm the walls, we have bred peaches and apricots to weather cold nights. The modern ‘Tomcot’ varieties of apricots are more resistant to frosts, although covering the blossom with

fleece on a cold, late spring night will additionally protect the flowers. Tomcot apricots are self-fertile and produce lots of fruit in July. Peaches too are well worth fan-training against a warm wall. It encourages them to produce more fruit. Many specialist nurseries sell trees that have already been trained for two or three years. West and east-facing walls are ideal for training apples and pears. These too can be bought already shaped and will just need pruning in the summer months to maintain their shape. Pruning fruit trees in winter causes them to make more growth. Whereas if apples and pears are cut back to an outward-facing bud in August and September they will start forming fruiting spurs. Apples and pears need pollinators within their

The autumn palette is warm, rich, earthy and golden

Plant hormones control the plant world – it’s quite exciting to see them in action. Some increase in the presence of light or the length of our nights; some respond to gravity either down into the soil, or up into the light; while others respond

to changes in temperature. It is to these ‘phytohormones’ that we owe our seasonal changes here in the British Isles, and consequently it is thanks to those phytohormones that we owe the beauty of the English landscape in autumn.

Ins and outs of training fruit trees

A beautifully trained apple tree

flowering group, so specialist nurseries are the best place to go for advice and to buy. North-facing walls have a more even temperature all year, and the ground beneath remains damp. Morello cherries are the classic cherry to grow on a cold wall. They are the best for cooking. Prune them during

April and May, cutting or shortening each fruiting shoot. This ensures that enough new fruiting shoots form for the coming year. And they will need netting when their fruits redden. Birds are immediately attracted to red fruits and they tend to get up earlier in the mornings than most gardeners!

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Home & Garden

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Huge selection of quality cut and pot grown Christmas trees. Fresh holly wreaths and mistletoe, plus Christmas decorations and gifts. Plants galore to colour your Christmas! We wish all our customers a very happy festive season! Monday – Saturday 9am – 5:30pm and Sunday 10am – 4pm Milton on Stour, Gillingham SP8 5QA

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New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Home & Garden

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Landscaping, Groundworks and Garden Maintenance, Specialists in Patios, Fencing, Driveways, Walling, Ponds, Turﬁng Free Quotations amralphlandscaping@gmail.com Tel: 01747 631471 www.ralphlandscaping.co.uk Mobile: 07921 637227

Tree Tree Surgery. Surgery. Reductions. Reductions. Felling. Felling. Hedge Trimming. Stump Grinding. Hedge Trimming. Stump Grinding. Woodchip Woodchip supplies. supplies. Family run business Family run business since since 1946 1946 Tel: 01963 250005 Tel: 01963 250005 Mobile: Mobile: 07976 07976 934 934 252 252 www.bandgdown.co.uk

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Home & Garden

TREEWISE Experts in all aspects of TREE SURGERY, HEDGECUTTING & STUMP REMOVAL

NPTC qualified & fully insured No job too small, Friendly, personal advice and free quotations. Make a wise choice and call David Merefield today on 01747 850906 / 07966 522361

blackmorevale.net

Treecare Co. Tree Specialists

TREE STUMP REMOVAL Pruning, bracing, shaping. Preservation of mature trees. Hedge cutting. Trees supplied & planted. Landscaping & maintenance. Heavy duty winch hire available. Tree Surgery BS.3998 Contractors to local authorities.

WOOD CHIPPINGS FOR SALE Free Quotes & Advice Tel/Fax: Shafts 853512 Mobile: 07831 262083

For all your fencing and decking needs

Closeboard, panels & sheds supplied and fitted. Gates made to measure.

Sherborne Fencing Ltd Tel: 01935 814272 Mobile: 07814246332

Established in 1976

Windows, Fascias, Soffits, Gutters cleaned, Repairs, Free Estimates 07788-376752

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ASH DIE BACK SPECIALISTS

office@minsterfurniture.co.uk WWW.MINSTERFURNITURE.CO.UK

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Fencing Patios Sleeper walls All hard landscaping

Vale Tree Surgeons Limited www.valetreesurgeons.com Tel: 01747 228484 Mob: 07770 833734

HOUSE CLEARANCE Plus Sheds, Attics, Garages & Gardens Quality Items Offset Registered Waste Carrier

Tel: 01258 440838 or 07853 275379 enquiries@back2market.com www.

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High quality, traditionally made furniture. Residential and contract upholstery in the Dorset area since the 1980s.

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For Sale

Stonehill Garden Services Est. over 35 years, working in Henstridge, Stalbridge. Garden equip, Husqvarna Ride on Mower, + other kit

Call Marcus

0777 561 0418

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023 4FT SOFABED, M&S, seldom used, from a non-smoking, children or pets home, buyer collects. £150.00 Tel: 01935 389596 DRYSTONE WALLING AND LANDSCAPING www.yenstonewalling.co.uk 01963 371123

CURTAIN ALTERATIONS Made to measure soft furnishings. For free estimates Tel. Sue Marsh 01747 853680

LAWN MOWING AND HEDGE CUTTING SERVICES, Shaftesbury-Blandford & local villages. Please call Trevor 07970 012130 HASKELL FENCING All types of fencing supplied and fitted We also have a mini-digger for hedge removal if required Blandford 07751 001515 JAMES AYRES DORSET TREE CARE Specialist Tree Workers All kinds of trees expertly felled, topped and pruned. Hedge cutting. All rubbish cleared. Licensed waster carrier. Fully insured. Tel: 01747 850129 Mob: 07951 284639

WINDOWS RESTORATION OF YOUR WOODEN WINDOWS, DOORS AND SO MUCH MORE. Embrace the old don't buy new. Ask me first and see what I can do. Tel: 01747 822537 Mob: 07554 654982

CHRISTMAS TREES & HOLLY WREATHS FOR SALE - CHRISTMAS TREES Up to 14ft. Holly wreaths/ Holly and mistletoe Next to the railway bridge, Motcombe. SP7 9HU Open 7 days a week from 27th November. 01747 850129 LANGTON NURSERIES (C W Abbott & Son) Pot grown and cut Christmas trees. Open daily 10am– 3 pm. Langton Long Blandford Forum Dorset DT11 9HR. Telephone 01258 452513

Visit us for a wonderful choice of fresh ﬂowers, pot plants, arrangements & gi�s

Free delivery in the local area Christmas week

Home & Garden Get in the Garden The latest gardening news, hints and tips, with Mike Burks, MD of The Gardens Group...

Tips for picking the perfect tree... IT was not until the 16th century that conifers were brought indoors at Christmas when apparently Martin Luther began to decorate trees to celebrate Christmas after he was inspired by the snow dusted beauty of some firs in moonlight. He added candles to a tree that he set up in his house, which he lit in honour of the birth of Christ. Choosing a Christmas tree is a big event for many people. Many see it as the start of their Christmas celebrations with some families waiting until everyone is home before they call in to select their tree. One of the difficulties is the number of choices available. Gone are the days when it was just the size of the Norway Spruce that was the issue. We now stock, from the very best specialist British growers, seven or eight different varieties and in lots of sizes and forms, cut, and pot grown. The Nordmann, Noble and Fraser Firs are the ultimate in Christmas Trees. Their luxury, proportions, looks, and feel make them second to none. Their big advantage is that they have relatively little needle drop. Living pot-grown trees have a full root system. After Christmas this type of tree has a chance of survival when

planted in the garden. To get a potted tree to survive, put it into the house as close to Christmas as possible and then bring it back outside as soon as possible after Christmas. Keep it well watered throughout this time. With cut trees, remove the netting we wrap them in when you arrive home and allow the tree to regain its natural shape. Cut perhaps 1–2 inches off the bottom of the trunk and stand the tree in a bucket of water until you are ready to bring it into the house. The later it is brought into the house the better the needle retention for all types of trees. Choose a position in your house away from direct heat and radiators and keep it upright in a stand that will hold water. Keep the water topped up as regularly as you can. After Christmas, some councils will collect trees for recycling, as we do too if purchased from one of our centres. The shredded trees are used as mulch or for soil improvement. n For more information, tips and ideas, log on to thegardensgroup.co.uk

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023 TOOLS WANTED. Cash waiting. 01747 850474

Home & Garden MAN WITH MICRO-DIGGER & 1.5ton digger, stump grinder, Garden clearance, patios, fencing, decking, landscaping, driveways 30+ years’ experience Contact Ken 07882 441873 / 01963 32034 ASBESTOS REMOVAL Garages, Sheds, Lean to’s, Roofing and Cladding Collection and Dismantling BY Registered Hazardous Waste Carrier Call 07973 444620 or 01722 414478 LANGTON NURSERIES (C W Abbott & Son) Bare root hedging and fruit trees, Garlic, Autumn onion sets, Fruit Trees, Perennials & Shrubs, Large selection of; stoneware, terracotta and glazed pots, Wild Bird food 20kg £14.50, Stockists of Kings, Franchi and Fothergill Budget Seeds, Potting Compost. Open daily 10am– 3 pm. Langton Long Blandford Forum Dorset DT11 9HR. Telephone 01258 452513 PETER PORT UPHOLSTERY. A Local Family Run Business, Offering a wide range of services including foam cut to size. 01747-228384 Peterportupholstery@googlemail.com AG FENCED IT Thinking of a New fence or repairs to an existing one, maybe you just want to enhance the look of your garden. Please give me a call, for a competitive price, no job to small. Call - 07748 395532 - banditblue@outlook.com

COUNTRY BYGONES & COLLECTIBLES

Rural, garden & agricultural itembought & sold

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!!! WANTED!!! Dead, diseased or fallen trees cleared away, Tel: 07946 396005 WELL ROTTED MANURE £60.00 a transit load. Contact Roger on 07885 826396 or 01202 826502 2 INDUSTRIAL UNITS FOR RENT Approx 1800 sqft each 3 phase possible Melcombe Bingham 07725 910364

WOOD AND MULTI-FUEL STOVES, new and exdisplay bargains, Wessex Woodburners 01747 853110 L.DAVIS AND SONS Garden clearance and garden design Concrete bases, patios, gravel, fencing and much more. We also deliver compost, pots, bark, logs and other gardening products. 01458 241230 or 07950 261510 FOR COPPICING, PRUNING, WOODLAND CLEARANCE, leaf blowing, hedge cutting, strimming etc. Call David the Electric Gardener on 07786 658708

WANTED Dave buys all types of tools Call 01935 428975 OUTDOOR RUBBISH & HEDGE TRIMMINGS cleared and taken away, also hedge cutting. Free estimates. 07864 960768

OUTDOORS TREES R US

Get your garden ready for spring. Trees, hedges, patios, turf & fencing call Peter 07976 667130

LOGS BLACKMORE VALE LOG SPLITTING AND CHIPPING - Your local mobile service 07760 469411 WONDER WOOD LOGS Seasoned ash 1 cubic metre £95 2 cubic metre £180 Call or text 07847 659881 or 07990 511340 GOOD QUALITY DRIED BARN STORED WOOD FOR SALE Also any garden clearance. For more information please contact Andy 07773 254174

LOGS R US 1 ton pickup load of logs £100 double load £160 dumpy bag £70 All hardwood 07790 404593 01258 818081 SEASONED HARDWOOD LOGS £180 double load, £100 half load 01258 880892, 07980 036250

SEASONED HARDWOOD LOGS Small and Large Loads Tel: 07973 871708 Evenings: 01935 825506

SEASONED LOGS DRY BARN 20 miles radius of Sherborne

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Call Sherborne 01935 815534

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

History

blackmorevale.net

Time for a sharp exit after search for the Loch Ness monster by John Blashford-Snell WATCHING the gentle flight of highly coloured hot air balloons over the Blackmore Vale last summer, I was reminded of an unusual expedition on Loch Ness a few years ago. On behalf of the government, I was organising an Army training programme for rebellious urban young in the Scottish Highlands, when I was asked if I would care to amuse the boys and girls by using balloons to look for the legendary Monster in Loch Ness. Thus, early one summer’s morning, my small team of ‘potential delinquents’ mounted a couple of balloons kindly provided by a well-known brewer. Our aim was to fly slowly over the loch with high quality cameras to see if anything stirred in the coffeecoloured waters. As the sun rose, we lifted out from a field by Urquhart Castle and floated slowly across the loch. “The breeze will carry us to an open field at the Eastern end,“ said our pilot confidently. “We can land there safely.” There was hardly a breath of wind as our gas burners sent their fiery blast into the envelope and it took 20 minutes for us to cover the two miles across the water. To demonstrate the control that was possible, our pilot touched down in mid-loch and we drifted along the surface of the water for a few minutes with water up to our knees, before rising up again. Alas, as we reached the far

Colonel John Nicholas BlashfordSnell CBE is a former British Army officer, explorer and author who founded Operation Raleigh and the Scientific Exploration Society

side, it became apparent that what little breeze there was would not take us along the loch to the safe landing field, but up into some inhospitable pine forested hills with no place to land. Luckily, a local boat was close by and it kindly towed our balloon along the surface until we were right opposite a small clearing by a road. “Cast off,” cried the pilot and we rose sufficiently to brush through the treetops until we were poised over the clearing. We needed a hand on the ground to guide us down. “Excuse me,” I called to a small tent which shared the clearing with a camper wagon. “Could you grab our line, please?” The tent flap opened and an attractive, scantily dressed French girl stepped out and looked round to see where the

Colonel John Nicholas Blashford-Snell looked for the legendary Loch Ness Monster in Scotland using hot air balloons

voice had come from. For a moment she saw nothing. In the meantime, an older gentleman in loosely tied, striped pyjamas had emerged from the camper, rubbing his eyes and then they both saw our balloon and ran to take the dangling rope. At this point, striped pyjamas’ wife, in nightie and curlers, appeared, failed to see us, but found her beloved jumping about with a lightly clad blonde. A French man then crawled out of the tent and, still on hands and knees, gaped in astonishment at the unbelievable scene. A nasty international incident was only avoided by the necessity for all to pull like mad to get us down safely.

As we touched down the balloon canopy collapsed across the loch-side road. At that moment a small milk float appeared and had to brake suddenly to avoid being enveloped in the folding fabric. It’s milk was scattered far and wide. Fortunately, my Army Land Rover arrived at that moment. “I think it’s time to withdraw, Colonel,” muttered my driver and we departed at speed. n SIGNED copies of John Blashford-Snell’s recent book, From Utmost East to Utmost West, are available priced £19 including UK postage. Contact jenny@ses-explore.org for further details. John will also be lecturing on his expedition in the New Year.

GOT A STORY? Then email newsdesk@blackmorevale.net

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Local Services

blackmorevale.net

ARCHITECTURAL, BUILDING & ELECTRICAL The New

Blackmore Vale

Magazine

Turn to page 22 for our Christmas & New Year Deadlines

Bryan G Paulley Ltd Oil Tank Services Domestic & Commercial

REPLACEMENT TANKS INSTALLATIONS RE-SITING TEMPORARY TANKS EMERGENCY PUMP OUTS BUNDED /SINGLE SKIN METAL TANKS/FUEL STATIONS ABOVE GROUND OR BELOW MOLING SERVICE FOR BELOW GROUND UTILITIES COMMERCIAL BOILER REMOVAL

CALL NOW FOR YOUR PERSONAL QUOTATION

Tel: 01963 363870

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ALL IRONWORK. Handrails.Gates. Railings. Repairs. Restoration. 01258 880301 SW BUILDING & RENOVATIONS All aspects of building and plumbing catered for. Tel: 07970 437786 e: swbuildandrenovation@ gmail.com

HANDYMAN, reliable and experienced Call Chris 07413 678076 Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication. COLIN LEA CARPENTER / BUILDER No VAT - call 01747 590117 07708 467601

CHARLIE IVE BUILDING & CARPENTRY. Extensions, renovations, kitchens & bathrooms. 07388 441638. Charliecarlyleive@gmail.com

New build, refurbishment, restoration, extensions, garden buildings. Free estimates. Call Dom on 07399 649628 www.escape totheoffice .co.u k

B.LUCAS General builder

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New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Local Services

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ARCHITECTURAL, BUILDING & ELECTRICAL ASA ARCHITECTS. All drawings for planning and construction. 07770 421624 Free consultation PROPERTY DESIGN AND PROJECT MANAGEMENT/ refurbishment and renovation. Call Tim 07793 837073

Book Online

DORSET WOOD TRADITIONAL BUILDINGS

Oak Timber Framing Bespoke Timber Building Traditional Building Specialist inc All Building WorklAll aspects of Lime External and Internal Rendering/Plastering/Repointing Lime Crete Flooring Chimney Rebuilds and Repointing

www.dorsetwood.co.uk

classified@ blackmorevale.net

All aspects of traditional building work undertaken External & internal lime works Full restoration service for older & listed properties Bespoke extensions, disabled & granny annex conversions - from planning to completion Cob work - new & repairs Oak timber framing Project consultation service

Contact Dave Welsh 07838 654468

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T F PLANT

Sand, gravel, cement and topsoil supplied

Trade & DIY. Supplied loose or collected. Small or large loads also bulk bag materials & small handy bags. Muck-away service of inert materials Trusted family-run business, ring for enquiries

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TF Plant, 8 Brickfields Industrial Estate, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4JL

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Traditional builders specialising in older and listed properties Call Dave Welsh 07492181788 or 07838654468 www.dorsetlime.uk dorsetlime@gmail.com

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Architectural Services Planning & Building Applications for New Build, Extensions and Conversions

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Our advice is always free

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General building Extensions/Renovations Loft conversions Oak frame buildings Groundwork/Landscaping All your property needs

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New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Local Services

blackmorevale.net

ARCHITECTURAL, BUILDING & ELECTRICAL

SUB-LIME

25 years experience in modern and traditional property restorations. All general building works undertaken, specialising in lime rendering, pointing and plastering.

NO JOB TOO SMALL NO UP FRONT COSTS NO VAT Call Steve Taylor: 07855 787857 or email steve.sublimeplastering @gmail.com

Damp Control Timber Treatments Dry Rot Condensation Control 30-Year Bonded Guarantee

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J&C Handyman Services

Plumbing Door hanging & skirting boards Painting & decorating Guttering and facia clearing Shed erecting & repairs and replacement Flat pack furniture Fencing Shelves & curtain rails Pointing etc... No job too small. Please call with your requirements.

01963 364457 07368 516658 dorsethandyman26@gmail.com www.jchandymanservices.com

KBB KITCHEN FITTER, all aspects of kitchen fitting undertaken. 30 years experience, free estimates given. Tel: 01963 364550 or 0789 0841827 PHILIP STIRK Painting, Decorating & Property Maintenance Free Quotations/No VAT Tel. 01747 825725 or mob: 07984 524446 Email: philipstirk@btinternet.com R & H ELECTRICAL LTD Local Electrician, NAPIT Accredited -Solar & Battery installation -EV Charging specialists -Domestic & Commercial installations http://www.rhelectrical-ltd.co.uk 07955 197928

Limited Fully Insured, Free Survey Failed Double Glazed Units UPVC Windows and Doors Shower Screens, Balustrades T: 01747 631899 / 07708 180306 e: shaftesburyglass@gmail.com w: www.shaftesburyglass.co.uk

Steve Guppy Home Maintenance & Improvements

Fully Insured Tel: 01747 590584 Mob: 07812 106 513

Concrete & Floor Screed Mixed On site Any Quantity Delivered Sand Gravel Stone Cement Blocks etc Supplied Loose or in Big Bags Good Quality Top Soil in Stock

EV Car Installations

Building Construction Specialists

Now available... Rockery Stone

Competitive Rates 01747 853687 or 01747 855630 www.hardimanconcrete.co.uk

GROUNDWORKS Home extensions | Barn Conversions Cottage Renovations | New Build Homes Project Management Established over 40 years Phone:For 07979 210 074 / 01747 855 280 complete professional service and advice with E: andy@sandsltd.biz w: www.sturgessandsturgess.com

For all aspects of domestic outdoor improvements, site clearance, concrete breaking, extension footings, drive construction and resurfacing, concrete bases, drainage, landscaping and disposal of spoil. 1 metre wide mini digger and 6 tonne excavator with experienced operator. Established over 35 years. For complete professional service and advice with a free no obligation quote, call Graeme Sheaf:

07968 968 869 Wincanton

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Local Services

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CARPETS / CARPET FITTERS JAYS CARPETS

JAYS CARPETS

The New

Blackmore Vale

Magazine

Turn to page 22 for our Christmas & New Year Deadlines

FREE ESTIMATES Open 7 days week Supply/fit Carpets Vinyls Underlay Gripper Doorbars Next Day Fitting Available

Professional with over 20 years experience.

www.jayscarpets.com 07790340846

CHIMNEYS

CHIMNEYS MARTIN SIMMONDS CHIMNEY SWEEP Friendly, Reliable, Professional 07368 250305, 01747 590799 STEVE ADAMS CHIMNEY SWEEPING HETAS registered woodburner and flue installer. Birdguards and cowls 07932 655267 K.SANSOM CHIMNEY SWEEP Brush & vacuum APICS registered 01963 370038

B SNOOK CHIMNEYS Problem chimneys solved. Brush and Vacuum. Also replace chimney pots and bird guards. Insurance cover £5 million. Donhead 01747 828904

From Only

£55

Smokin Nicely Chimney Sweeps NACS certiﬁcates issued Chimneys and Flues Extremely clean service Fully insured (£5m) CCTV

01258 455251

Tel: smokin.nicely@hotmail.co.uk smokinnicely.co.uk

SOLID FUEL INSTALLATIONS LTD accredited installers from the competent persons scheme for wood burners, multi fuel stoves, chimney liners and twin walled flues. Sweeping chimneys, birdguards & cowls. Fireplace alterations to your needs, chimney works including pointing. 01749 677440 - 07921 074602 solidfuel3@aol.com www.solidfuelinstallationsltd.co.uk

Specialist Wood Burner Installation Co. Building and plastering jobs undertaken all at affordable prices No chimney no problem Twin wall bespoke metal chimney systems Chimney stack rebuilds, repair, leak fix Relining flexible liner existing stove installations False fireplaces Professional and highly recommended company with 5-star reviews

Call now for a free survey and advice. 07521647885 WWW.STOVEANDCHIMNEYSOLUTIONS.COM

CLEANING

SHINY STOVES OVEN CLEANING Ovens,Ranges, Aga’s, etc. Independent Family Run Business Covering The Blackmore Vale Area

Tel 01935 592461 Mob 07875 272401 www.shinystoves.com

HOME AND OFFICE CLEANING, IOSHH COSHH DBS CERT. 15 mile radius of Gillingham. westcountrycaretakers@ yahoo.com or 01747 685591

COMPUTERS & TECH DEREK ETHERINGTON BSc(Hons). PC/Mac, Repairs, Networks, Websites, Tuition. Free local callout. 01963362403 07855287150 http://www.dcenet.co.uk

Joseph Crocker Computers Custom built gaming & office PCs Desktop & laptop repair Help with mobile devices General computer and IT advice

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL 01963 23669 07484 690824

josephcrockercomputers.co.uk

COMPUTER MAINTENANCE & REPAIRS Purchase advice, Virus Removal, New PC Setup/ Installation, Internet Connection, Upgrades, Computer/Software Tuition Call Gregg on 01963 370713

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Local Services

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COMPUTERS & TECH

DOMESTIC APPLIANCES

Get connected. Stay connected.

PROPER DOMESTICS

WiFi • Email • FaceTime • WhatsApp Skype • Google • eBay • Amazon Facebook • Twitter • Instagram

R Laptop R Tablet R Smartphone R desktop PC

APPLIANCE REPAIRS & INSTALLATION

01747 416059

www.properdomestics.com

• Friendly, patient, and knowledgeable help • Keep in touch with family, friends and colleagues for free over the Internet • Sell online easily, quickly and reliably

• Buying advice, setup and installation

I’m Phil Hudson, your local tech expert and trouble-shooter. I’ll come to you and sort things out, at a time that suits you. Or you can drop off your machine at my workshop for quick, efficient care and maintenance.

The New Blackmore Vale Magazine DEADLINES Display ads must be booked by Wednesday the week prior to publication, with final copy submitted by the Friday. Classified ads may be accepted after this, HOWEVER these will be subject to space.

John Banham’s

Call me now on 07805 783147

Property Service

DECORATION, FLOORING & CARPENTRY

REFRESHING Bathrooms & Kitchens

LJB CARPENTRY & BUILDING SERVICES. Extensions, loft conversion, garden make-over, office removals, rubbish clearance. Mere VAT registered. 07543 814320. ljbcarpentry@ qualityservice.com

Painting & Decorating Local Quality Painter & Decorator.

35 Years Experience FREE Estimates. No VAT

Call Richard on

Tel: 01258 880670 Mob: 07825512627 ‘Your home in safe and capable hands’

GARETH TANNER G.O.T. Decorating City and Guilds qualified Interior/exterior Decorating Free Quotes no VAT Tel 07736 644452 go.tanner93@gmail.com

Upgrades and Carpentry Decorating services Refreshing sale and rental upgrades Handyman projects Plumbing repairs Tiling services Contact: John Banham

Office: 01747 838 087 Mobile: 07768 190 131 email: refreshingrenovations@gmail.com

COUNTRY CARPENTRY Doors, repairs, general maintenance etc Call Nick on 07887 358570

GENERAL MAINTENANCE SERVICES, Painting & Decorating, Carpentry, Interior/Exterior. For free quote call Tim 07793 837073

Book Online classified@ blackmorevale.net

LOCKSMITHS & GARAGE DOORS

Sectional Doors / Roller Doors / Up and Over Side Hinged / Personnel Doors Spares & Accessories Installation / Servicing Automation / 2 into 1 Conversions Insulated Garage Doors Call 01963 363782 or 01258 472830 www.dorsetgaragedoors.co.uk

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Local Services

blackmorevale.net Stonehenge Services 1/8:Layout 1

11/8/22

MOTORING SERVICES

15:15

Page 1

S TONEHENGE SERVICES

FOR ALL YOUR DRAINAGE NEEDS

LTD

• Blocked Drains • Drain Repair/Relining • CCTV Surveys for Drains • Drainage Investigation • Septic Tank Installation/Repair • Sewage Treatment Plant Installations/ Services

ELECTRIC MOTOR REWINDS AC, DC, Traction & EX Motors Generator Sales, Service & Repairs Pump & Gearbox Repairs Brook Motor & Control Gear Stockists

24 HOUR DRAIN CLEARANCE Office: 01747 859203 Mobile: 07453 319391 Email: Info@wefix-drains.co.uk

www. stonehengeservices.co.uk

PEST CONTROL

PIANO TUNING, repairs, sales of reconditioned pianos.Julian Phillips BA CGLI. 01258 471194

SPECTRUM PEST CONTROL

Wasps, Rodents, and all other pests humanely dealt with. All forms of bird and rodent proofing undertaken. Technician. Member of the British Pest Control Association T: 01258 721462 M: 07379 405080

SHERBORNE GUITAR TUITION 01935 389655 ahiahel@live.com

Book Online

Clarinet & Saxophone

Ex-Professional plays as Soloist and Busker for Weddings and Special Events

01749 813625 Robert Chalke

www.robertchalke.co.uk

classified@ blackmorevale.net Place your classified advert today CLASSIFIED

FRANKS

•Boiler Replacement •Boiler Servicing •Gas, Oil & LPG MAINTENANCE GROUP •General Plumbing •Bathrooms Installations, •Landlord Certification servicing and •Solid Fuel Stove maintenance Installation and

01747 826656 franksgroup.co.uk

Servicing

HEATING AND PLUMBING

TEL 01722 414161

LTD

Unit 4 Faraday Road, Churchfields Industrial Estate, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP2 7NR

MUSIC

PLUMBING, HEATING & DRAINAGE

ABBEY DRAINAGE UNBLOCKING DRAINS

• Sinks • Toilets • Sewers • Downpipe • Installation of new drains • Manholes and gully’s • Repairs to existing drains • CCTV Surveys • HP Jetting • No dig Relining

Call David: 01747640188 07587238563

01963 400186 The New

Blackmore Vale

Turn to page 22 for our Christmas & New Year Deadlines

Septic Tanks, Treatment Plants & Soakaways

Magazine

To place a classified ad in the Local Services section email: adverts@blackmorevale.net

Problems with your sewage system? Need to replace your septic tank?

Speak to your local experts 01747 823731 or 07970 484890

Established 1980

www.dorsettreatmentplants.co.uk

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Local Services

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PLUMBING, HEATING & DRAINAGE

BLANDFORD DRAINS Family business Established 1996

DRAIN UNBLOCKING CCTV SURVEYS SEPTIC TANK EMPTYING

01258 452500

D&T Plumbing and Heating Oil servicing and repairs, plus all other aspects of plumbing and heating carried out

t:01747 854887 m:07525 755 696

MJ HPPS LTD Plumbing and Heating Contractors

General Plumbing Oil/Natural Gas/LPG Installations Bathroom and Kitchen Installations New Boilers and Cylinders Underfloor Heating & Renewables Landlord Safety Certificates All workmanship guaranteed, along with manufacturers’ warranties.

Office: 01747 829222 Mobile: 07900916810 Email: mike@mjheat.co.uk

OKEFORD HEATING LTD

• PROFESSIONAL • TRUSTED • RELIABLE • • OIL AND GAS HEATING INSTALLATIONS • • BOILER REPLACEMENT AND SERVICING • • LANDLORD’S GAS SAFETY CERTIFICATES • • BESPOKE PLUMBING AND BATHROOM DESIGN •

Shaftesbury 01747 812335 Mobile: 07971 865496 123456 128053

email: okefordheating@yahoo.co.uk

500285

REMOVALS

TrustScore 4.4

Rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot

Family Owned Business Est. 1973

British Association of Removers

Eco Friendly Removals

UK Removals

Storage

Country House Moves

All houses great and small! A worry-free service from planning, packing to completion.

24-hour to long term contracts, our advanced containerised system makes storage simple.

Armishaws provide the highest levels of customer service, tailored to your move.

Get your free quote. Blandford 01258 447005

Dorchester 01305 231267

Shaftesbury 01747 440426

Sherborne 01935 316221

Warminster 01925 984459

Wincanton 01963 34065

THE SOUTH WEST’S

LEADING REMOVAL SERVICE

www.armishaws.com

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Local Services

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ROOFING

WASTE & HOUSE CLEARANCE Clive Smith Waste Transfer Note.qxp_Layout 1 01/10/2020 09:33 Page 1

Tom the Roofer

SKIP HIRE

SKIP HIRE Waste Transfer Note

Smiths Triangle, Fifehead, St Quinton, Sturminster Newton, DT10 2AW (Also disposal site) www.clivesmithskips.co.uk Email: clivesmithskips@hotmail.co.uk

Tel: 01258 860 166 Mobile: 07974 822243 Waste Carriers Number: CBDU112820 Permit Number: EPR/JB3101KP VAT Reg Number: 634 6316 44

Ticket No:

Date ________________ ALL AREAS COVERED ONLY • AVAILABLE • LEVEL LOADS ALL SIZE OF SKIP PLEASE RING

Friendly Service Free Estimates Mobile 07973 248319 scott@scottmilesroofing.co.uk

CUSTOMERS ORDERING VEHICLES OFF THE PUBLIC HIGHWAY DO SO ENTIRELY ON THEIR OWN RESPONSIBILITY

IT IS DANGEROUS TO TRANSPORT AN OVERLOADED SKIP, THIS INCLUDES BOARDS TO INCREASE THE SIZE OF THE LOAD. THE DRIVER MAY REFUSE TO REMOVE AN OVERLOADED SKIP AND/OR AN EXTRA CHARGE WILL APPLY TO COVER COSTS.

• No Asbestos • Do not move skip • No Plasterboard/Gypsum • No Fires in Skip • No Sludge • NO Fridges/ Freezers • Tyres • Gas Bottles • Toxic Solvents • Paints and Liquids

PLEASE NOTE

t:01747 854887 m:07525 755 696

Clive Smith Ltd.

• Felt Roofing Specialist • Tiling, Slating and UPVC • Velux Windows • No Job Too Small • Insurance Work • Leadwork

PLEASE NOTE

I cover all aspects of roofing work, gutter replacement, cleaning and repair work

CLIVE SMITH (See Condition 17 overleaf).

Vehicle Registration

Driver

Customer

Address

ANYTIME

01258 860 166 or 07974 822 243 S.I.C Code: 38110

Skip Size

Description

2 Yrd

Mixed Con, Brick

170107

4 Yrd

Concrete

170101

DELIVERY

6 Yrd

Soil & Stone

170504

8 Yrd

G Mixed Waste

170904

EXCHANGE

DATE

COLLECTION

Rob’s Clearance • • By signing this form I confirm I have fulfilled my duty to apply the Waste Hierarchy as required by Regulation 12 of the Waste (England and Wales) Regulations 2011. PRINT NAME __________________________________ WHITE - OFFICE

YELLOW - CUSTOMER

SIGNATURE ________________________________

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS (SEE REVERSE)

House, shed, and site clearance Rubbish removed

Based in Wincanton

• Recycling carried out • Good/interesting items bought for cash • Friendly and reliable

01747 839751 or 07956 414896

Tel: 07931 583614

valesideroofing@hotmail.com Find us on

CHRIS LANGLEY FLAT ROOFING BLANDFORD Specialist in Hi-performance felt & GRP. All of our work is GUARANTEED. All types of roofing professionally carried out. PERSONAL SUPERVISION OF ALL ORDERS.

Book Online

FREE D AN QUOTESATES ESTIM

01258-450879 | 07855-402799 Clangley12@aol.com

The New

Blackmore Vale

Turn to page 22 for our Christmas & New Year Deadlines

Magazine

classified@ blackmorevale.net

HOUSE CLEARANCE Plus Sheds, Attics, Garages & Gardens Quality Items Offset Registered Waste Carrier

Tel: 01258 440838 or 07853 275379 enquiries@back2market.com

The New Blackmore Vale Magazine To advertise in local services call us on:

Tel: 01963 400186

www.

.com

WINDOWS & DOORS BLACKMORE WINDOWS AND DOORS. Locally based company in Stalbridge with 25 years experience. All your window and door needs undertaken, from repairs to replacement. Contact Terry on 07514224712 or find me on Facebook and WhatsApp. FREE QUOTATIONS

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Food & Drink

blackmorevale.net

A taste of Thanksgiving in the USA by Barbara Cossins

ON the fourth Thursday of November, it was officially Thanksgiving in the United States. A holiday to give thanks for that year’s harvest. What us Brits would call a USA harvest festival, if you like, a time to celebrate the good things in life with family and friends. A time to eat and share good food to remember what we should all be thankful for. Many beliefs and stories surround the history of Thanksgiving. Pilgrims from England sailed to the Americas in The Mayflower in 1620, but they did not have enough food with them and half the colony died in the hard winter of 1620-21. The following year, the pilgrims were taught how to grow food like corn, vegetables and fruit. They also learned how to hunt and fish from the land and sea, so they had enough

food for themselves and their families and neighbours. The colony had bountiful food crops and to thank all those who had taught them to grow the food, they invited their helpers to feast with them. One of the reasons why Thanksgiving started in the first place. The colony travelled from Plymouth in the UK to the Americas and until now I hadn’t appreciated the story behind the tradition. This year, I had the privilege of being asked to join in a Thanksgiving Dinner with an American family. What a wonderful experience! Whether it’s an American Thanksgiving Dinner, or just a weekday supper with friends, we don’t do enough in England to celebrate what we are given by our farmers and fishermen. The producers who work to produce and gather their crops and look after the animals that

THYME AFTER TIME CAFÉ & CATERING Finger buffets prepared for collection or delivery Contact 01963 362202 or www.thymeaftertimecafe.com

Book online: blackmorevale.net

The spirit of Dorset... Aromatic Delivered Piquant for free. Warming

Award-winning, hand-crafted Dorset Gin. Order online for free shipping or visit Ash Farm. Stourpaine DT11 8PW. Open Friday and Saturday 9am – 12 noon. Call us on 01258 795022

hello@shrotonfairgin.co.uk

Bring a bottle & save £5! Bring ANY 70cl bottle for us to fill with our luxury Gin and save £5

feed us. More celebrations would be a great way to help educate young people about why we need to grow food, why we should look after the people that tend the animals and the land that gives back to us. We should take heed of our ancestors all those years ago. American Thanksgiving is a great way to have an extra food celebration, a shared National holiday around harvest time. Let’s face it, we all look forward to Black Friday – the day after Thanksgiving – and that is simply the start of the Christmas shopping season and consumer spending gone crazy. Some American people also don’t remember why Thanksgiving started. I asked some young Americans if they had a good knowledge of the history of Thanksgiving but, sadly, they didn’t. One thing is for sure, people today often don’t realise the story behind where their food comes from. It would be nice if we could start to change that wherever we live in the world. We have had such a wet year here in England, and a lot of our

crops were under water in November, including potatoes and sugar beet. In some areas of the country, maize still couldn’t be harvested because of the rain. A lot of this year’s crops that have been so waterlogged haven’t survived. This is a serious problem for us all. The weather is changing rapidly all over the world, which in turn drives up the prices on the foods we eat. On a more positive note, let’s enjoy the festive season ahead and remember sharing and enjoying a simple Ploughman’s supper of local cheeses, chutneys, fresh bread, crackers and a nice bottle of wine or craft beer is not going to be hard work. You don’t need to be a good cook, you just need to choose good basic ingredients! It doesn’t matter how simple the food you make is, it’s all about sharing it with others and enjoying that experience. n Barbara Cossins is founder of Love Local Trust Local, www. lovelocaltrustlocalawards. co.uk; Rawston Farm Butchery www.rawstonfarmbutchery.co. uk; The Langton Arms www.thelangtonarms.co.uk).

Dorset Distillery nears a full year of Gin refills! At the start of 2023, Shroton Fair Gin launched an innovative scheme to reduce unnecessary waste by encouraging the re-use of empty glass bottles. Based in Stourpaine, near Blandford, customers can bring an empty 70cl bottle to be filled with the Distillery’s signature expression, an award-winning spiced Gin. In return, they can receive £5 off the cost of a bottle as well as seeing first-hand where their product is crafted. Speaking to the BV, owner & distiller, Wilfrid Shon says the scheme has been a hugely popular way for Gin enthusiasts to give old bottles a new lease of life, reduce the amount of glass broken down in a 1400º furnace & get more people trying his locally produced Gin which was launched in mid-2022. Bring an empty 70cl bottle to Ash Farm Courtyard, Stourpaine, DT11 8PW every Friday & Saturday morning 09:00-12:00 & get £5 off a refill of Shroton Fair Gin! Head to www.shrotonfairgin.co.uk or email: hello@shrotonfairgin.co.uk for more information.

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Food & Drink

blackmorevale.net

Dorset cheeses for the festive season by Lorraine Gibson WHEN the chocs and pudding fatigue kicks in, generally after the Dr Who Christmas special, choose cheese. Serve with figs, grapes, walnuts, local crackers and condiments and you’re good to go-ho-ho!

smoothly, intensely rich and so creamy it melts in the mouth. Serve by the fire with a glass of port for the ultimate Christmas cheer. n East Street Deli, Wimborne. Prices from 01202 900390. n DORSET Red is coldsmoked over oak chips, so it’s seasonally smoky and ideal for those cosy moments of peace. It’s made using the traditional Cheddar method but with lower milk temperatures and less stirring, so offers a milder flavour and softer texture. The deep amber colour comes from annatto, a natural food colourant.

n JUST launched and already a favourite with cheese fans and chefs, Cranborne Dark Sky is a truly decadent yuletide option. A cow’s milk Brie-style number, it hides a luxury layer of black truffle that’s added during the making process and runs through the centre adding wonderful flavour. n £8.50/180g mini wheel; www. thebookandbucketcheese company.co.uk/shop. n EACH wheel of Colston Bassett Stilton is hand-made using traditional methods. It’s

n Made on Ashley Chase Estate, Litton Cheney, it’s about £19.70/kg. Also at Gulliver’s Farm Shop, West Moors, www. gulliversfarmshop.co.uk, phone 01202 619891. n A RECIPIENT of gold and silver industry awards, creamy, crumbly, Dorset Blue Vinny comes gift-wrapped in waxed paper so pretty you can leave it on display. A staple of almost every Dorset farmhouse until the Second World War ended production, it was historically made from leftover milk and some unusual ‘blueing’ methods, including dragging a mouldy harness

through the milk or placing maturing cheeses next to the farmer’s dirty boots to encourage mould. Since the recipe was resurrected in the 1980s, it’s been made at Woodbridge Farm, Sturminster Newton. Add chutney, digestive biscuits and a glass of red. n £11.60/500g, www. dorsetblue.com/shop or from the farm’s vending machine at Stock Gaylard (DT10 2BD). n ANOTHER prize Cranborne cheese is Book and Bucket Cheese Company’s Cranborne Blue, a silvermedal winner at the recent World Cheese in Trondheim, Norway. A beauty of a cheese and one of only nine from the UK awarded this accolade, it’s Dorset through and through. n £6/200g. At the East Street Deli, Wimborne.

TRADITIONAL COUNTRY PUB SERVING FINE FOOD AND DRINKS Peter and Karlene are delighted to invite you to the Plough Inn at Manston and look forward to seeing you soon. We are delighted that our renovation and expansion project has been well received by customers as have our food and beverage offerings. After a very long search, we now have a fully staffed kitchen and offer our full lunch and dinner menu every day from Tuesday lunch until Sunday lunch. We are closed after lunch on Sunday and all day Monday. We offer a wide range of beers, cider, wines and spirits as well as a range of non-alcoholic options. A Pub With Warmth And Atmosphere The bar and snug have been refreshed but retain all the old features that made this cosy area so attractive. And, by popular demand, we have a new wood burning stove to provide atmosphere and warmth whenever needed! We have a completely new kitchen, beer cellar and new male, female and disabled washrooms. The old conservatory is now an insulated garden room and we have a new dining area which can accommodate a further twenty guests. Hearty Food And Distinctive Drinks By experimenting with our menu and listening to our customers we have developed a popular menu ranging from light snacks to exciting specials and everything in-between. Please look at our menu and see if you can spot your favourite country pub meal. For Sunday lunch, in addition to our full menu, we offer a traditional roast with all the trimmings. Our range of drinks has evolved in response to customer demand and caters for all tastes. But most importantly we have built a wonderful team to look after you all and ensure a great experience at the Plough.

We hope to see you soon, Cheers, Peter & Karlene

PLOUGHMANSTON.COM 07783 009402

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Food & Drink

blackmorevale.net

Enford

Farm Shop Durweston DT11 0QW

Half a pig approx £130. Home reared and locally produced meats, game, deli, fruit, veg, free range eggs and lots more. Follow us on Facebook for all our latest meat pack deals and what’s in fresh that week. Chicken feeds etc available. Open Wednesday to Saturday 10am-5.30pm. Now taking Christmas turkey, meat, game, hams etc.

01258 450050

Deliciously Christmas... THE CLOCKSPIRE Discover our fabulous Festive Menu View online before you book. Available from throughout December 2023. Wednesday to Friday Lunch & Dinner and Saturday Lunch. 2 Courses £38.00 • 3 Courses £45.00

Join us for Winter Solstice Carols 21st December Book your table online

Discover The Clockspire’s Festive Afternoon Tea Seasonally inspired finger sandwiches and mouthwatering sweet treats crafted by The Clockspire’s talented pastry chefs. All served with a choice of loose-leaf teas (add Champagne if you’re feeling flamboyant) in our elegant mezzanine bar. A little festive feast for £38 per person, and an elegant way to spend a Winter afternoon. Plus - every Festive Afternoon Tea booking in December receives a gift - it’s our way of bringing in the holiday cheer! Book online or call to make your reservation

Join our mailing list for the latest news and events from The Clockspire

Scan me to find out more about The Clockspire

01963 251458 • www.theclockspire.com Gainsborough, Milborne Port, Sherborne DT9 5BA

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Health & Wellbeing

blackmorevale.net

Susie Curtin walked along the seawall between Keyhaven and Lymington

Meditations in nature: Between land and sea by Susanna Curtin IT is a still winter’s day and I am on my way over the county border to walk along the seawall between Keyhaven and Lymington. It was one of those last-minute decisions of where to go and what to do. I haven’t visited this reserve for some time and yet it is surely one of the best coastal bird watching sites along our south coast. The extensive salt marsh and mudflats, situated on the Western approaches of The Solent, are sheltered by the Isle of Wight and Hurst Spit, and are of international importance for the large flocks of waders that frequent its shores and lagoons. It is early afternoon by the time I arrive. A ghostly winter sun glimmers silently behind the lines of grey cloud. Just as I park my car near the quayside, a jaunty row of grey plovers sidle up on the seawall, while behind me, a marsh harrier is quartering the reed beds with its long V-shaped wings gliding effortlessly over the creek. Already I am glad I have made

the effort to come. I have always loved being in liminal places like these where you can walk between two different natural worlds. As I look to my left, there are large lakes interspersed with shrub and salt marsh, and to my right, I look out to sea towards the Needles of the Isle of Wight and to the spit of land where Hurst Castle looms eerily against the grey horizon. Coastal wetlands are immensely important for both us and wildlife. They act as natural buffers for coastal communities as they absorb the storms and ensuing floodwaters, and they help to filter out pollutants as well as sequestering large amounts of carbon in their soils. They are also exquisitely beautiful watery landscapes where light, and reflections dance even in the winter grey. The creeks and the shallow lagoons provide safe nurseries for fish and for breeding birds. This afternoon, the reserve is awash with birds. Flocks of tiny dunlin shift among the shoreline

and lift in unison to create aerial displays, flashing white and grey against the dark water. Common redshank totter around the pools and large clouds of brent geese shift from landward to seaward. Further out beyond the pools, great crested grebes dive effortlessly for their prey, and I can hear the haunting sounds of curlew. As the day draws in and the skies darken, the brilliant white flash of the lighthouse at Hurst Point becomes more and more

distinct, lighting up its neighbouring castle. This Tudor bastion was built in 1543 by Henry VIII as an artillery fortress to protect the growing port of Southampton and the naval base at Portsmouth. Charles I was held captive here in 1648 before his execution in London. In those days, it must have been a remote and grim marsh without any escape route. Funny how the shifting sands of time change our perception of places, and a dark past becomes a historic intrigue. Determined to get to Lymington and back, my pace quickens, stopping only to linger as I watch an elegant, stilt-like greenshank peruse the shoreline. By now the tide is the lowest I have ever seen it here, revealing some of the man-made structures of the reserve – old sea defences, ancient salterns and, sadly, the modern sluices which are spilling out sewage into this internationally important nature reserve, the smell at times quite repugnant. Although I try to avoid political comment in these musings, I have become more and more incensed by the pollution of our waterways – a subject I will no doubt return to. With my walk complete and darkness nearly upon me, I get back to my car to warm up. Looking at my diary, I have listed 35 bird species – a good day out for any birder. n Dr Susie Curtin (email curtin.susanna@gmail.com).

A_common redshank totters around the pools

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Health & Wellbeing

blackmorevale.net

Parents and setting an example... by Alice Johnsen A COUPLE of things happened recently that reminded me how ‘on show’ parents are all the time. Our actions, reactions and words set the thought patterns, behaviour habits and moral boundaries of those we raise far more than we might realise. Our interpretation of what is a bit of fun will be seen as a green light. The way we react to things or people will be seen as a reliable guide. Most of the time that’s fine. It provides the guide our children need. But sometimes we are reminded of how it is all too easy to set a bad example without realising it. I saw this

twice last week. Once during a conversation with a client and once at home. Neither situation was really, really bad. But it was a dip towards a bad example. A bad set of morals. It happens and, of course, as we approach the hullabaloo of the Christmas season, normal habits may vary even more and with them the examples we set. As children ourselves, we were almost certainly influenced by many people outside our immediate family. You may be familiar with the African proverb ‘it takes a village to raise a child’. The support we as parents can feel when we allow other

Dose of flu? A cure for aching bones by Fiona Chapman ME and my old classmates have a WhatsApp chat, which we started off using with great gusto saying we all wanted to keep in touch with each other, but as life goes on and we have all moved our separate ways, it has become considerably less

busy. Someone did, however, post the other day saying she was feeling awful, and could anyone help with herbal suggestions as her brain was not working and she said her bones were aching. A flurry of activity followed with lots of suggestions and a

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adults in our communities to have influence or offer guidance to our own children is significant. Of course, always with an eye on the safety and suitability of such a situation. That’s where communication with our children is so key. As parents we can feel a need to protect our children from seeing us as anything other than ‘fine or better than fine’. That is probably right for very young children but as they grow older, I have come to believe it is really valuable to allow our children to see us struggle. To see us get it wrong, to hear us acknowledge our mistake and watch how we go

couple of days later she came back saying that Eupatorium perfoliatum had been wonderful for her aching bones and that by the evening of taking it, all aches had stopped. This could, of course, be coincidence, but it is a very old herb that is famous as a flu remedy as it clears heat and toxins from the body and promotes sweating. It is native to North America where the indigenous tribes used it specifically for relieving the aching that seems to come from the bones with flu. Hence, it’s colloquial name of Boneset. Eupatorium perfoliatum increases the white blood cells in the body, which boosts the immune system to combat bacterial and viral infections – this includes herpes 1 and 2. It is anti-inflammatory and a hot tea can help to clear congestion in colds and flu and in allergies. Boneset is also good for digestion as it is antispasmodic and calming, so used for indigestion and bloating. It has bitter glycosides that help the liver to clear toxins from the body and it is a laxative, which, of course, helps clear toxins so it can be used for those suffering from arthritis or with skin problems – very often linked to the liver and

about fixing it. To see us grieve or feel anxious. To see us under pressure but coping in the best way we can. To allow them to tell us what they think or what they would do. A young take on things is very often more refreshing and less cluttered than the view of someone who feels they’ve been there before. If our children see us moving through those emotions openly, honestly, with consideration, logic and eventually with strength, surely that is one of the best moral examples we can set. n Alice Johnsen is a life coach (07961 080513; alicejohnsen.co. uk).

Boneset – otherwise known as Eupatorium perfoliatum – is not a herb to be taken long term but is effective in the case of a short, acute illness PHOTO: Mojpe/Pixabay

elimination. It is not a herb to take long term as it has pyrrolizidine alkaloids which are hepatotoxic in large or prolonged doses – too large a dose can make you sick and cause diarrhoea – but it is very effective in a short, acute illness. It is not something I have in my herbal dispensary or have tried but as I think one of the worst things about flu is the aching bones, I will be buying some, not that I am intending to get flu, but it is always better to be prepared! n Fiona Chapman is a naturopathic herbalist (email Pellyfiona@gmail.com).

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Health & Wellbeing

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Goodoaks Homecare Introduce Ultra Compact, Zero Emissions Electric Vehicles Local Visiting and Live-in Homecare provider GoodOaks has announced a pilot project to reduce local air pollution and carbon emissions by electrifying its fleet of vehicles. The company has invested in two ultra compact, zero emission Citroen AMIs, also

known as Urban Mobility Objects. The purpose of the vehicles is to allow for carpooling, support visits, client assessments and for use by their care teams. Air pollution from older and especially diesel vehicles poses a real threat to both public

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health and the health of the environment with older vehicles emitting more toxic pollutants into the air. Most care is provided in suburban settings, often with short journeys in stop-start traffic. GoodOaks has pledged to take measures to look after the local and global community and believe it is imperative to raise awareness and encourage people to care about reducing their carbon footprint. Co Founder Ben Ashton: “We take caring for the planet very seriously and we are committed to continuously improving our sustainability practices and seeking innovative ways to reduce our environmental impact. As part of this project, we are installing electric charging points at our offices. We aim to prove the concept in our office in our Bournemouth and Poole branch before rolling it out across our network.” GoodOaks provide Live-in and Visiting Homecare to clients in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes. For more information please call 01202 125882. Our local team of care professionals adapt and work to support you in your own home. They can help with:

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New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Health & Wellbeing

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Looking After Your Health And Wellbeing This Winter This season can be an exciting time of year, full of festive cheer and celebration and family time. Winter also provides opportunities to enjoy our Dorset countryside and benefit from getting out and about. But winter can be challenging for some of us, with dark evenings, cold weather and seasonal illnesses on the rise. It can be especially hard for those of us who have lost loved ones or are feeling low, stressed or anxious. Public Health Dorset, NHS Dorset and Dorset HealthCare are reminding everyone of some simple things we can all do to take extra care of ourselves and our loved ones and stay safe, well and healthy over the winter months.

If you are eligible, get vaccinated As winter brings an increased risk of catching and spreading respiratory viruses such as flu and COVID-19, it’s important to get both vaccines if you are eligible. Taking up the offer of getting vaccinated is the best way to stay protected against flu and COVID-19 this winter. Search ‘COVID vaccinations Dorset’ online to find your nearest vaccination clinic and how to book, as well as clinics offering walk-in appointments.

Children can be vulnerable to seasonal flu at this time of year. It’s important to keep your child’s health strong by making sure they get their free flu vaccine. The nasal spray vaccine means a healthier child, better attendance record and less disruption to your home routine. If your child is of pre-school age they are eligible for a nasal spray vaccine at their GP practice or school, which is quick, safe, and painless. If your child is at primary or secondary school (aged 5-16 years) they will be offered a free flu vaccine at a school run clinic. If your child has missed receiving the vaccine at school, or they are home educated, visit dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/ schoolageimms to see the full list of community clinics available and how to book.

Support is available throughout the festive season The festive season can be a difficult time for some of us, for lots of different reasons. Some of us may be struggling with loneliness, missing a loved one, feeling overwhelmed with financial pressures or just finding it hard to cope.

Stay warm and well Whilst cold weather can affect any of us, some people are more vulnerable to the effects of cold weather. It’s important to check-in on those with underlying health conditions and older family members and neighbours to make sure they are safe, well and warm and have everything they need. We know many people will be under financial pressure when considering heating their homes this winter as the cost of living rises. Having a cold home impacts your physical and mental health and can lead to many illnesses. If you can, it’s important to heat the rooms you use most in your home to at least 18°C to stay warm and well and reduce the risk of getting ill. Help is available in Dorset if you need energy advice to keep you and your home warm. Visit healthyhomesdorset.org.uk to see what free help is available.

If you know someone who may be struggling, let them know emotional support and practical help is always available if they need someone to talk to. There are organisations on-hand 24/7 over the festive period to offer a listening ear: • Call Samaritans any time, day or night on 116 123 • Call Connection, Dorset’s NHS mental health helpline on 0800 652 0190 • Text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258 for confidential support via text message Find more mental health support at publichealthdorset.org.uk/ mental-health.

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Motoring

blackmorevale.net HONDA CRV SPORT 2003 one owner 21,000 miles service history. £2100 ono. MOT required 07548 883549 CITROEN PICASSO 1.6 HDI 2008, MOT 28/07/2024, only 88,000 miles from new. Seats fold down and are removeable, suitable for transporting large items etc. £1,100 Telephone 01963 363698

Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

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OLD, INTERESTING & CLASSIC CARS wanted pre 1990s Any condition including unfinished projects Cash/Transfer Please Phone Paul 07890 096907

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Booking Deadline Tuesday 12th December (4pm)

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UNWANTED VEHICLES bought for cash ●Mot failures ●Nonrunners ●Unfinished projects ●end of life scrap vehicles ●minimum of £200 paid for complete vehicles. Call Ryan on 07474 737577

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Booking Deadline Tuesday 12th December (4pm)

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New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Motoring

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01747 854789 www.crewscars.co.uk VIEWINGS BY APPOINTMENT

CAR SALES

2021 (21) Fiat 500 Pop 1.0 Hybrid 3dr. 70bhp, petrol hybrid, 6 speed manual gearbox, self-charging petrol hybrid, 2,400 miles ...............................................................£9950

2016 (16) Peugeot 208 1.2 Allure 5dr. 82bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, parking sensors, cruise control, £20 a year road tax, upto 62mpg, 35,800 miles ............................................£7850

2021 (21) Fiat 500X 1.3T Lounge Automatic SUV 5dr. 148bhp, petrol, 6 speed automatic gearbox, high seating, cruise control, ½ leather, parking sensors, 12,300 miles ..............£16950

2016 (16) Renault Twingo 1.0SCe Play 5dr. 70bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, £20 a year road tax, 60mpg economy, 56,900 miles ..............................................£5650

2018 (18) Ford Fiesta 1.0T EcoBoost Titanium Nav 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, sat nav, cruise control, parking sensors, 50+mpg, 88,800 miles .............................£8950

2019 (19) Vauxhall Crossland X 1.2 Elite Estate MPV 5dr. 82bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, high seating, parking sensors, cruise control, 51,900 miles ..................................£9650

2018 (18) Ford C-Max 1.5TDCi Titanium Nav Automatic MPV Estate 5dr. 120bhp, diesel, 6 speed automatic gearbox, high seating, sat nav, parking sensors, cruise control, heated front screen, 38,800 miles .........................................................................£11250

2014 (14) Volkswagen Polo 1.2 Match Edition 5dr. 60bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, parking sensors, cruise control, upto 51mpg, 38,950 mile ....................................................£8250

2018 (67) Ford Kuga 1.5T EcoBoost ST Line SUV 5dr. 150bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, high seating, ½ leather, parking sensors, auto parking system, reverse camera, cruise control, sat nav, 54,500 miles ........................................£13450 2015 (15) Kia Sportage 1.6GDi 2 SUV 5dr. 133bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, high seating, parking sensors, cruise control, ½ leather, electric sunroof, 59,900 miles ................................£9250

Puzzle solutions Sudoko 6 9 3 5 2 4 7 1 8

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1 8 4 7 3 6 2 9 5

3 5 7 4 1 2 9 8 6

4 6 9 8 7 3 1 5 2

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WE BUY CARS & VANS SO IF YOU HAVE SOMETHING TO SELL GIVE US A CALL, WE PAY GOOD PRICES & CONSIDER MOST VEHICLES.

01747 854789

(from pages 42-43)

Edition 84

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Cryptic crossword

3 6 8 9 7 4 1 9 6 2 8 5 7 5 4 9 1 4 5 8 1 6 5 9 2 3 3 4 8 1 1 2 7 1 3 9 5 7 7 3 1 6 4 7 2 3 4 7 8 6 52 5 4 9 6 8 2 8 1 4 2 6 7 4 3 2 9 3 6 3 5 5 6 8 7 8 1 3 5 2 4 4 9 9 1 9 6 9 3 7 8 5 1 4 7 6 8 6 8 7 2 7 9 2 4 1 9 5 1 8 6 5 8 2 3 9 1 9 5 3 2 7 8 6 4 2 5 8 7 6 3 4 3 7 1 6 6 5 3 2 3 1 3 2 9 6 4 9 8 7 5 1 7 5 1 2 4 2 4 9 7 4 2 1 8 4 8 9 6 9 1 8 3 7 8 5 9 7 8 6 3 5 6 3 3 1 5 7 5 2 6 9 2 4 1 2 6 8 7 4 9 7 4 3 9 8 1 54 1 8 6 3 59 5 3 4 1 2 5 9 2 4 8 1 6 7 3 7 6 3 1 6 2 7 2 5 4 8 9

A F B L A A L S P L H F A L R A E A T S P E L E U C I R T K

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T R O N E N A E N D I C A L H Y I E L H D R E I L S O L H O

CAR SALES

Brain chain 20

Five Square Motors (Bosch Garage) Salisbury Road (A30) Shaftesbury SP7 8BU

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New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Motoring

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CLASSIC CAR SHOW RAISES A MASSIVE £55,000! Sherborne Classic and Supercars Show recently celebrated a hugely successful event at Sherborne Castle by presenting cheques totalling £55,000 to many local charities, including Yeovil Hospital Charity, Children’s Air Ambulance and Somerset Sight. Volunteers from Rotary, Lions, Round Table and Friends of Sherborne Classic

Car Show put in countless hours of time which resulted in a hugely successful event, attended by an estimated 10,000 members of the public. Rory O’Donnell, chairman of the organising committee, said, “This event shows the power of collaboration between voluntary organisations and we are delighted to support many worthwhile charities with

the funds raised. We are also indebted to the major sponsors, wealth management firm Atkins Ferrie, exhibitors, members of the public who supported us, and to Mr and Mrs Digby, who shared their beautiful home and grounds creating the perfect backdrop to the eclectic mix of vehicles. There really was something for everyone at the event – from ‘petrol-heads’ to families - and we are already ‘revving up’ for 2024’s show at the castle, on 21st July 2024.” For further details on 2024’s car show, visit www.classic-supercars.co.uk. Photo from cheque presentation – from left to right front row as follows: John Sugg (chair of show content), Rory O’Donnell (chair of show committee), Olivia Sugg (head of show marketing), John Waldie of Atkins Ferrie, Mrs Digby of Sherborne Castle.

Announcements SEASON GREETINGS

THANK YOU

SEASONS GREETINGS FROM IVAN CROAD.

MARJORIE BERYL COX

PUBLIC NOTICES

The family wish to extend their sincere thanks for all the kind messages of sympathy and cards and for all who attended the service. Also grateful thanks to Candlelight Care and Peter Jackson Funeral Services for their care, kindness and support. Donations to date amount to £280.00, thank you

No cakes or cards this year, but warm wishes for all my friends and relations. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Licensing Act 2003 Notice of application for the GRANT of a PREMISES LICENCE. Proposed licensable activities: Sale of Alcohol, Name of applicant: Babylonstoren UK LTD, Address of Premises: Avalon Farm, Galhampton, Castle Cary, Post Code: BA22 7AE Date by which Responsible Authorities and other persons may make representations: 6/12/2023 A record of the application made to the Licensing Authority will be kept on a register at the address given below and the register may be inspected during normal office hours. All representations regarding this application MUST BE IN WRITING and sent to: Somerset Council, Licensing Department, The Council Offices, Brympton Way, Yeovil Somerset BA20 2HT. Or email: licensing.south@somerset.gov.uk. It is an offence knowingly or recklessy to make a false statement in connection with an application and is subject to an unlimited fine on summary conviction for the offence.

The Late Beryl Martin 11/07/1937- 21/11/2023

The family would like to thank those who attended the funeral of Beryl on the 07/12/2023 and thank you to those who expressed their sorrow and support on the loss of Beryl all your well wishes and support have been very apricated during this hard time.

The New

Blackmore Vale

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Turn to page 22 for our Christmas & New Year Deadlines

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Announcements

blackmorevale.net

DEATHS PETTIT - SHIRLEY MAUDE Passed away peacefully at Elliscombe House, WIncanton 15th November 2023, aged 88. Loving Mother to Grahame & Caroline, will be sadly missed. Funeral to be held at Yeovil Crematorium Monday 11th December 2023 at 14:40pm. Family request funeral attire with a splash of colour please. Family flowers only, but if you wish to make a donation in Lieu in aid of The Donkey Sanctuary, please forward a cheque made payable to charity via Funeral Director C/O Stuart Foster Funeral Services Ltd, 27 Market Street, Yeovil, Somerset BA20 1HZ 01935 508971

PYM Jean Elizabeth (of Norton-Sub-Hamdon, formerly of Sutton Hill) Passed away peacefully on the 15th November 2023 aged 88 years. Beloved Wife of the late John, much loved Mother, Granny and Great Granny. Funeral service will take place on Thursday 14th December 2023 at 11:20am at Yeovil Crematorium. Family flowers only please. Donations in memory of Jean for The Stroke Association may be sent c/o A J Wakely & Sons, 33 Sparrow Road, Yeovil. BA21 4BT Tel: 01963 479913 (please make cheques payable to the charity).

RAYMOND GRAHAM FARRIS “RAY” Suddenly and unexpectedly on 4th November 2023 aged 79 years. Of Shaftesbury. Much loved husband to Ivy and dad to the late Graham. He will be sorely missed by all his family and friends. Funeral service takes place at St. James Church, Shaftesbury on Tuesday, 12th December at 12.30pm. No flowers please but donations, if desired, for Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance may be made online at www. mhfd.co.uk or sent to Merefield & Henstridge F/D, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532

MOULD Jeffery (Jeff). ‘The Wincanton Cobbler’

Passed away on 3rd November 2023 aged 84 years. Funeral service on Tuesday 12th December 2023, 12 noon at Yeovil Crematorium. Family flowers only please. Donations in memory of Jeff for the Injured Jockeys’ Fund may be sent, c/o A. J. Wakely & Sons, The Old Police Station, Carrington Way, Wincanton, BA9 9JS. Tel: 01963 31310. Please make cheques payable to the charity

PATRICIA NEWELL Peacefully at home on the 19th November 2023 aged 79 years with both of her girls. Already hugely missed. A dearly loved Mummy, Nana and friend to many. Former owner of Ye Olde Two Brewers and King Alfred’s Kitchen. Private cremation. A Memorial Service to be held in January 2024. More details to follow. No flowers please. Donations to RAF Benevolent Fund. C/o Cooperative Funeral Home Shaftesbury. Tel: 01747 858968

DODDS, Peter Barker Peacefully at home on 21st November 2023, aged 85 years, of Sturminster Newton. Dearly loved Husband of Geraldine. Much loved Dad of Julia, loving Grandad to Malachi and Great Grandad to Kristal and Logan. He will be sadly missed by all his family and many friends. The family would like to take this opportunity to thank the District Nurses, Marie Curie and Weldmar for all of their special care, kindness and support. Private cremation. In memory of Peter, a friendly golf match will be held at Folke Golf Centre, Alweston in Spring 2024. Details to follow nearer the time. Donations if desired, for Marie Curie or Weldmar Hospicecare Trust can be made online at: peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk or cheques made payable to the charity can be sent c/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Mons, High St, Henstridge BA8 0RB Tel. 01963 362570

ERNEST WILLIAM CHARLES READ PARK JOSEPHINE ELIZABETH (Josie,Jo) Passed away peacefully at Maiden Castle House on 13th of November 2023, aged 88 years. Loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She will be sadly missed by all her family and friends. Josephine’s funeral service will be held at Harbour View Crematorium on Tuesday 12th of December at 3pm. Donations in memory of Josephine would be gratefully received for Dementia UK and Alzheimer’s Society and may be sent c/o Woods Funeral Services 11a Icen Way, Dorchester, DT1 1EW Tel: 01305 250425 You can also donate online at www.woodsfuneralservices.co.uk

of Alweston, passed away on 10th November aged 90 years. Husband of the late Cath. Father to Stephen, Dawn and Bruce, Grandfather and Great Grandfather. Memorial Service will take place at a later date. c/o Bracher Brothers, Newell, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 4EZ Tel: 01935 813479

TREVOR GEORGE FOOT Peacefully past away at home on the 22nd November 2023. Trevor was much loved, and will be sadly missed by all that knew him. Trevor’s Funeral is taking place at ST Michael’s Church, Penselwood on the 20th December 2023 at 11:30am. All are welcome to attend. If you have any queries please contact Bracher Brother’s Funeral Directors on 01747 822494.

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Announcements

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DEATHS STEEDS Nigel John Aged 94 years of Bruton. On 23rd November 2023, peacefully at South Cary House, Castle Cary. A much loved father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. Funeral Service at Mendip Crematorium on Monday 18th December at 11.30. a.m. Family flowers only please, donations in memory of Nigel are being invited for Epilepsy Society.org.uk. C/O Harold F.Miles, Funeral Director, South Cadbury, BA22 7ES. Telephone. (01963) 440367

RYALL. JOHN. “JR” Aged 87 years of Rimpton. On 23rd November 2023 at his home. A much loved husband. father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. Funeral Service at St Mary’s Church, Rimpton on Wednesday 13th December at 12.30.p.m. followed by private cremation. Family flowers only please, donations in memory of John are being invited for Dementia UK or The Injured Jockeys Fund. C/O Harold F.Miles, Funeral Director, South Cadbury, BA22 7ES. Telephone (01963) 440367

SQN LDR JIM STRAUGHAN

Passed away peacefully on 28 November 2023. Sadly missed by all the family. Private family funeral. “Now flying in Heaven”

NITA PECK Peacefully at home on 26th November 2023. Nita aged 90 years of Sturminster Newton. Wife of the late John Peck. Dearly loved Mum, Granny and Great Granny. Funeral service at Yeovil Crematorium on Thursday, 14th December at 10.40. Family flowers only please, donations if desired for the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance Trust. C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Mons, High St, Henstridge, BA8 0RB. Tel: 01963 362570.

FARRANT John Reginald Passed away peacefully at home in Stalbridge, with family by his side on 23rd November 2023, aged 88 years. Beloved partner of Shirley. Loving Dad to Hilary, Andrew, Kevin, Marcus and Fiona. Much loved Grandad and Great Grandad. Funeral service at Yeovil Crematorium on Tuesday 12th December at 12:40pm. Please wear colourful clothing in memory of John. No flowers please. Donations if desired, for Weldmar Hospicecare Trust can be made online at: peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk or cheques made payable to the charity can be sent c/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Mons, High St, Henstridge BA8 0RB Tel. 01963 362570

HILARY EVELYN PENDER Peacefully on 28th November 2023 with family by her side. Hilary aged 72 years. Dearly loved Wife, Mum, Grandma and Great Grandma. Funeral service at Yeovil Crematorium on Tuesday 12th December at 3.20pm, please wear colourful clothing in Hilary’s memory. Family flowers only please donations, if desired for The British Heart Foundation. C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, High Street, Henstridge, BA8 0RB. Tel 01963 362570

Martin John DODGE Passed away November 28th in Musgrove Park. Much loved husband, dad, brother and uncle. He will be greatly missed by family and friends. The service will be held in Sherborne Abbey, December 18th at 14.00. Family flowers only. Donations to Prostate Cancer, c/o Wakely & Sons, 16 Newlands, Sherborne.

ANDREWS Margaret Elizabeth (Betty) Aged 88 years of Wincanton. On 28th November 2023, peacefully at Yeovil District Hospital. A much loved mum, nan, great nan, aunt and friend. Funeral service at St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Wincanton on Tuesday 12th December at 2.30.p.m. Family flowers only please, donations in memory of Betty are being invited for Wincanton Live at Home Scheme. C/O Harold F.Miles, Funeral Director, South Cadbury, BA22 7ES. Telephone. (01963) 440367.

HILARY FOSTER On 25th November 2023, peacefully in her sleep, aged 75 years. Of Fontmell Magna. Beloved wife of Roy. Funeral service takes place at St. Andrew’s Church, Fontmell Magna on Thursday 14th December at 11.30am. No flowers please but donations, if desired, for The Grenadier Guards may be made online at www.mhfd.co.uk or sent to Merefield & Henstridge F/D, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532. Please make any cheques payable to ‘The Colonel’s Fund Grenadier Guards’

JOHN WILLIAM IDIENS of Woking Surrey

Died in St. Peters Hospital, Chertsey 16th November, age 75 years. Much loved and missed by all the family.

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Announcements

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

DEATHS NIGEL FREDERICK WHEELER peacefully on 28th November 2023 in Salisbury District Hospital after a short illness, aged 87 years. Of Shaftesbury. Much loved Husband to Diana and a loving Dad, Grandad and Great Grandad. Funeral service takes place at St Peter’s Church, Shaftesbury on Wednesday 20th December at 12.00 noon followed by a private family burial. Family flowers only please. Any enquiries to Merefield and Henstridge F/D Tel: 01747 853532

Proudly serving your local community

01747 860 361

Water Street, Mere, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 6DZ

Call us for immediate support, advice, or to find out more about our prepaid funeral plans. We are here to help 24 hours a day. "

www.lchillandsonfuneraldirectors.co.uk

JEAN YOUNG After a short illness Jean (or Mrs Young to many) passed away peacefully at home on 24th November 2023. She loved living in Mere and will be much missed for her cheery smile and kind, generous nature by family and friends alike. Cremation in Salisbury 15/12/23 at 10am No flowers please but donations if desired to the Dorset Wildlife Trust

To place an obituary or remembrance advertisement in

The New Blackmore Vale Magazine please call us on:

01963 400186 or email:

www.blackmorevale.net

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

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Newell, Sherborne DT9 4EZ Tel: 01935 813479

Available 24 hours a day.

Find us at: dignityfunerals.co.uk/local Pricing is correct at time of print and is subject to change. Price stated is for an Unattended Funeral.

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

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New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Recruitment

blackmorevale.net/jobs

HGV Vehicle Fabricator Role Overview: Based at BCA Automotive Henstridge Depot, the HGV Vehicle Fabricator will be responsible for ongoing repairs and modifications to the existing fleet. With occasional work on larger fabrication projects such as vehicle remounting. Reporting to the Workshop Manager, the post holder’s key responsibilities will be: • Fabricating steel components. Welding steel and aluminium of varying thickness and quality. Repairs including grinding, welding and cutting. • Complying with Company standards with regards to Health and Safety. Ensuring good housing keeping by maintaining a clean and organised workplace.

Person Specification: The ideal candidate will possess; • Previous experience in repairing/fabricating truck bodies and trailers. • Qualifications and time served as a welder fabricator. • Mig Welding experience essential.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. • Ability to work on their own initiative or as part of a team. • Full UK Driving licence

Contact:

Victoria.Fisher@bca.com Austin.Barber@bca.com HRautomotive@bca.com Regular overtime available.

Hourly rate at £20.00

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Recruitment

blackmorevale.net/jobs

Hundreds of jobs to go at Barclays as bank “simplifies the business” HUNDREDS of jobs are set to be axed at Barclays as it bids to cut costs, according to the Unite union. Jobs will go across several back-office divisions, including compliance, finance, legal, policy, IT and risk, according to the union, which called the move “disgraceful”. Barclays said it was taking steps to “simplify the business”, but did not confirm the number of jobs to go. A spokesperson said the cuts had been outlined in its third-quarter results in October. Barclays chief executive CS Venkatakrishnan said then that the bank saw “further opportunities to enhance returns for shareholders through cost efficiencies and disciplined capital allocation across the group”. A Barclays spokesperson confirmed the bank was making changes to its headcount. “We are committed to supporting impacted colleagues through these changes,” they added. Unite general secretary, Sharon Graham,

WANTED: CARER FOR ELDERLY LADY NEAR WIMBORNE. £30 for 2 hours. Ideally, Carer needing some exra hours, supporting living carers breaks. Car driver and references please. Email: Nicky on: b14physio@hotmail.com

SITUATIONS WANTED CHEMISTRY TUTOR Experienced GCSE and A Level teacher. Call 07732 418488 or visit www.cometugrow.com/services

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said: “Barclays is disgracefully cutting jobs to further boost its massive profits. This is a mega-rich bank that is already on course to make eye-watering profits this year.” The bank reported pre-tax profits for the

three months to September of £1.9bn, down from £2bn the year before. As well as the fresh round of cuts, Barclays has also announced around 200 branch closures in recent years.

Hardings Lane, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4QP https://www.gillingham-dorset.co.uk 11-19 Mixed Comprehensive - 1,754 on roll including 360 in the Sixth Form TEACHING ASSISTANTS 28.75 hours per week (term time only) We are looking to recruit two committed, adaptable and creative individuals to join our thriving Support for Learning team. Our teaching assistants work alongside teachers to develop a stable, caring and supportive learning environment which enables students to achieve their full learning potential and facilitates their personal, social and moral development. The role will involve building and sustaining positive relationships with our children and young people; supporting students to succeed through targeted interventions to meet their learning needs; supporting students through in class support, and communicating clearly with students, parents and other colleagues. Closing date: 15th December 2023. Please apply on line via the school website (https://www.gillingham-dorset.co.uk). We are committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and will require the disclosure of any criminal convictions. Gillingham School will conduct online searches of shortlisted candidates. This check will be part of a safeguarding check and the search will purely be based on whether an individual is suitable to work with children. As care must be taken to avoid unconscious bias and any risk of discrimination a person who will not be on the appointment panel will conduct the search and will only share information if and when findings are relevant and of concern. We look forward to receiving an application form from you

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Sport

blackmorevale.net

Young Jack is just champion!

NOT even a flood close to the entrance of the lakes was going to stop seven juniors rom Dorchester & District Angling Society fishing the final junior points match, the Martin Vine Memorial Cup, at Whitemoor. The rainwater that had filled Chester’s Lake over several weeks had upset the fish a little, but nothing was going to upset

Jack Copp, winner of the Martin Vine Memorial Cup, the 2023 Championship and the 2023 Silverfish Championship

but everyone caught a few fish which is all that can be asked for in the middle of November. The top three in both the match and the championship were: 1 Jack Copp, 24lb 15oz, 213 points; 2 Josiah WellsParkes, 12lb 9oz, 204 points; 3 Austin Scott-Kennedy, 12lb 5oz, 201 points. Jack also became the 2023 Silverfish Champion. For more information, visit www.ddasjuniors.co.uk. For membership information visit www.d-das.com. Fishery information Whitemoor Lakes on Facebook.

the try line led by Tom Spinney, Brandon Ward and Will Willoughby kept Frome at bay for the most part, with North only conceding one try in the second half, allowing them to keep their noses in front running out victors 15-12. Oli Davis and Ryan Boardwell were rock solid in the centres not allowing anyone through, while Tom Hooper was ever present at the breakdown. Halves Rylie Lewis and Sampson controlled the game throughout, but it was hooker and prop Sam Stinton who was man of the match.

The 2nd XV fared well in Salisbury overpowering Wheatsheaf Cabin Crew 19 to 12 with tries to Adam Trevis, Kenton Ward and Tom Ashfield. Fly-half Seb Titcomb and Ward worked well together in the backs while Fyn Watch, Jaime Bettesworth and Vince Stone were a powerhouse in the scrum. The loose forwards, Ben Stokes, Luke Biggs and Trevis worked hard all day. Scrum-half Tom Judd, who picked two conversions and kicked well out of hand, was man of the match for the Badgers.

ANGLING Jack Copp. Jack and the two other title contenders, Austin ScottKennedy and Josiah WellsParkes, all had one deserving hand on the trophy, but only one could emerge as the winner. The fishing was more difficult than had been hoped

North Dorset teams claim victories by Andrew Wallace Clune Southern Counties South NDRFC 1st XV 15 v Frome 12 Dorset & Wilts 1 South Wheat Sheaf Cabin Crew 12 v NDRFC 2nd XV 19 TWO important matches last weekend for North Dorset Rugby Club with the 1st XV taking on Frome and the Badgers away to Wheatsheaf Cabin Crew, and with all teams occupying a similar place in the table, wins for any of the sides would see them climb the ladder. At Slaughtergate, it was a tight affair in the fog with North pulling in front early in

RUGBY the game from a Tom Stewart penalty before skipper Charlie Jobling crossed out wide to extend the lead to eight. Robbie Sampson then finished off a barnstorming run from Pearce Mercer to score his first try of the season, and Stewart added the extras. Just before half time Frome hit back through a try of their own, and from that point North played much of the game without the ball, as Frome seemingly camped inside North’s own 30. Some ferocious defence on

Turbos pick up best times and medals SWIMMERS from North Dorset Turbos Swimming Club got off to a great start in Dorset’s first two galas of the season. Over the course of two weekends at the West Dorset Season Opener Invitational and then the Poole Season Starter, the club’s swimmers competed in 142 races. Some 11 swimming clubs were represented from across the area and 70 personal best times were achieved and 79 medals – 31 gold, 25 silver, 23 bronze. The club, run in association with Swim England, was

SWIMMING founded over 20 years ago and serves Gillingham and surrounding areas. New young swimmers are welcome, but they must have completed Stage 7 of the Learn to Swim programme or reached an equivalent level, and are aged nine-plus. The club offer two free trial sessions. Turbos are run by volunteers, parents and friends who give up their time to invest in the swimmers. For more information, parents and carers should contact chairpersonnd t@gmail.com.

Young North Dorset Turbos Swimming Club members

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Sport

blackmorevale.net

Rockies stay top after wins by Avril Lancaster SHAFTESBURY remained top of the Velocity Wessex League Premier Division with a 3-1 win over Andover New Street at a foggy Foxcotte Park. Callum Sweeney put the Rockies ahead with an assist from Brett Pitman in the first half. Steve Walker headed in Steve Devlin’s corner after the break to increase the lead before New Street pulled a goal back following a good move finished by the impressive Lewis Williams. Devlin forced the home side into conceding the third, causing a mix up in New Street’s defence, the ball being directed past former Rockies keeper James Mayo to seal the win. Cameron Beard celebrated his 100th appearance for Shaftesbury. Beard hit a first half hat-trick as Shaftesbury won 8-0 against

FOOTBALL bottom-placed Lymington Town at Cockrams. That followed a 3-2 win at Petersfield Town in the Velocity Wessex League Premier Division when Ash Wells, Beard and Brett Pitman’s penalty secured the points at the Southdown Builders Stadium. Luke Burbidge and Jim Milligan’s side were 5-0 up at half time against a Lymington Town side that are rebuilding. There was an early own goal via a Steve Devlin corner and a clean finish from Jake Graziano for his first Rockies goal in an impressive first half performance. Brett Pitman was set up by Aaron Roberts to sweep home his 29th goal of the season and then Steve Walker headed in his first goal for the club at the back post via Pitman’s assist, much to Lymington protests that it had not gone over the line.

Cameron Beard receives a certificate on playing his 100th match for Shaftesbury from groundsman/kit manager Steve Rudd

Referee Andrew Desroches thought otherwise. Steve Devlin looped a header over Linnets keeper Dale Hinds to complete a good night’s work. Despite the scoreline, the Linnets played some tidy football and will get a win soon. The Rockies remain top with 47 points after 19 games with second-placed AFC Stoneham having three games in hand.

Ladies pick up first points by Nick Mowat AFTER a difficult start to the season, Yeovil & Sherborne Hockey Club’s Ladies 1s gained valuable points with their first win. The lunchtime fixture at Yeovil Recreation Centre in Chilton Grove saw Yeovil & Sherborne take on Winscombe Ladies. The previous week saw a heavy loss to Plymouth Marjon, so a much-needed fillip was needed. The home side soon got on the scoreboard following a penalty corner with Wendy Butcher driving the ball into the Winscombe goal. Shortly before the half time break another penalty corner led to a goal from Lily Kitto. After the interval Winscombe pressed hard and took the score to 2-1. Five minutes before the end captain Bec Handford scored from

HOCKEY another penalty corner. Despite the win, the result sees Yeovil & Sherborne Ladies 1s stay in 12th place in the West Women’s Division 1 South league. Yeovil & Sherborne Men’s 1s lost all their league games in November, so the match against local rivals Taunton Vale Men’s 2s, who are also in the bottom half of the table, should have been a chance to gain points. But, playing in bright autumnal sunshine at the Recreation Centre, this was not to be. The home side grabbed goals from Dom Fear and Steve Membury, but in the second half, with the score 2-2, the visitors scored a welldeserved goal to seal a win. The scoreline would have

been much worse but for Yeovil & Sherborne’s Dave Martin’s valuable saves. The loss sees Yeovil & Sherborne propping up the table in the West Men’s Division 1 South league. The club organise an informal Masters Pay & Play on Thursday evenings open to older players returning to the game or those new to the area. The ‘short format’ games are played in a relaxed atmosphere and offer the opportunity to make new friends. Yeovil & Sherborne Hockey Club welcome new players – anyone interested can get in touch with the membership secretary via the club’s website. The club also welcome junior players who can learn the sport in a safe and encouraging environment. For more information, visit www.yshc.co.uk/junior-hockey.

GOLF WINCANTON Golf Club, Seniors Monthly Stableford – November 7: 1 John Westaway 39, 2 Kevin George 38, 3 Philip Dewar 36. Seniors 9 Hole Stableford – November 7: 1 John Wolstenholme 15, 2 Malcolm Faulkner 9, 3 Alan Rogers 9, 4 Kieth Williams 8. Seniors Monthly Medal – November 21: 1 Philip Francis nett 68 ocb, 2 Kevin George nett 68, 3 Kees Schouten nett 69. Seniors Back 9 Medal – November 21: 1 John Wolstenholme nett 39, 2 Jon Reed nett 41, 3 Alan Rogers nett 46. Monthly Medal –November 25: 1 Brian White nett 70, 2 Jim Phillips nett 72, 3 Chris Chapman nett 73. Seniors Bowmaker – November 28: 1 Rick Graham/ Colin Jacobs / Kees Schouten 85, 2 Harry Eden/Chris Dibben/ Brian White 83, 3 Steven Ireland/Richard Strong/Simon Lenton 80, 4 Pete Starkey/Geoff Lye/Trevor Mills 76, 5 Phil Francis/Philip Dewar/Kevin George 73, 6 Neil Auckland/ John Westaway/John Morgan 70. Seniors 9 Hole Bowmaker – November 28: Winners – Steven Ireland/Richard Strong/ Simon Lenton 41.

TABLE TENNIS Blackmore Vale Table Tennis League Division 1 P W D L Pts Stalbridge A

Stalbridge B

1 179

Compton A

4 158

Child Okeford A

3 145

Compton B

6 145

East Stour A

Pts

Division 2 P W D

1 192

Compton C

0 201

Compton D

1 190

Child Okeford C 8

5 147

East Sour B

2 145

Stalbridge C

6 140

Compton E

6 139

Child Okeford B

3 114

Stalbridge D

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Pets

MID DORSET CATS PROTECTION

MID DORSET CATS PROTECTION blackmorevale.net Cats looking for new homes n Celemence (11 years). Gentle girl who loves a good fuss to be made of her

Loving homes needed for cats and kittens in our care. For more details, please call our helpline 01258 858644 or visit our website: cats.org.uk/blandford (Formerly Blandford & Sturminster)

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Come and get your wild bird food for the winter. “Great little shop! We took our 9 week old JackTzu in on 30/09/23 was greeted by a lovely helpful lady who got us kitted out with a new harness some toys, food and a lick mat. Was very impressed with the prices in this little independent shop and they had a lot of deals on. Will be back for more of the peanut butter chews as our pup demolished his in 24 hours. Cheers”. Benny

n Chloe (five years). Looking for an adult-only home with someone who can read her signals n Harriet (10 years). Gentle girl looking for a home with no other pets

n Mario (four months). Needs a patient home to help him come out of his shell

We also have kittens which will be looking for homes in the coming weeks, please get in touch to register your interest. Outdoors cats looking for homes – farms, stables etc. For details, please call our helpline on 01258 858644 or visit our website,www.cats.org.uk/blandford BLACK LABRADOR FOR STUD KCRegistered. Hip4-2/Elbow0 Eyes Clear. 2YO Feb 24. 07787801605

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4 BEAUTIFUL F1 SCHNOCKERS (KC reg mini parti colour Schnauzer X KC reg Blue roan tan Show Cocker both health tested) Beautiful low/non shed parti colour puppies, fleece coats. HOME raised by 5 star licenced breeder. Parents superb temperaments. Will be small cocker size. Vet check, First vaccination, microchip, puppy pack, food and insurance. Ready 15 December . 1 x Beautiful fluffy Blue Roan and white boy available, Can be viewed with both parents Tel 0798 0424995 £650

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Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm & Saturday 10am to 1pm. 18 Broad Robin, Gillingham SP8 4PJ, opposite the Onestop Parking available. Email: enquiries@busypetz.co.uk Web: www.busypetz.co.uk Facebook: Busypetz

n Lollipop (11 years). Looking for a rural home with no other pets where her diet can be controlled

Bird/Hedgehog/Wildlife Food, Feeders & Accessories Old Market Car Park, Hound St, Sherborne, DT9 3AB

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MINI SMOOTH DACHSHUND 4 months old, 07707 646359 CAVAPOOCHON PUPPIES ready now. 07790 704653 GORGEOUS WIREHAIRED VIZSLA x lurcher puppies for sale. 5 girls and 4 boys. Mixture of wirehaired and smooth coated pups. Mum and dad can be seen , both great with children. Must see!!! £350. 07739 313814 COCKA PUPPY. Blue Roan, 9 months, KC reg, Vaccinated and insured. Looking for a lovely home: enquiries. 01202-715113 STANDARD DACHSHUND Puppies. Boys left, wild boar. Lovely temperament. Chipped and 1st jabs. Ready after 10th December. £1000 each. Contact Vicky 07538907547. Blandford Forum

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Pets

blackmorevale.net

Cat flu a complex beast by Lynn Broom Longmead Veterinary Practice CAT flu is a description of a syndrome of symptoms caused by a number of infectious agents. Each one typically causes specific symptoms, but many infections involve more than one organism. Herpes virus is one of the most common infectious agents and causes generalised effects on the eyes, nose and throat/ mouth causing cold-like symptoms of sneezing and runny eyes, and can cause a high temperature. Infections can lie dormant and can cause recurrent eye ulceration later in life. Calicivirus is the other most common cause of cat flu – together with herpes it accounts for 90% of cat flu infections. It causes similar symptoms to herpes, but tongue ulceration is also often seen with this infection causing significant oral pain and drooling. It can also

cause joint pain in young cats and chronic infections are associated with long term gum and mouth inflammation such as gingivitis and stomatitis often causing significant discomfort. Bordatella bronchiseptica is a bacteria which can also be involved. It is also a cause of kennel cough in dogs. It typically causes sneezing and can cause coughing. Chlamydophila felis is an organism that can cause conjunctivitis and is similar to a bacteria. Cats with chronic conjunctivitis may have this. Mycoplasmas can also cause conjunctivitis and nasal inflammation. Bordatella, chlamydophila and mycoplasma all respond well to the same small number of antibiotics which include doxycycline and long courses may be required to fully resolve the infection. Herpes and calici viruses are less susceptible to treatment.

Development of anti-viral therapies for certain cat viruses is a developing field and some options may be effective in some cases. Treatment has relatively recently become available for FIP – feline infectious peritonitis – and there are treatments which can be effective against FeLV (feline leukaemia virus) and FIV – feline immunodeficiency virus. Cats can be chronic carriers of many of these infections and can shed them even in the absence of symptoms causing infections in in-contact individuals. Symptoms can also recur at times of stress or when other health conditions are present. Young, elderly or sick cats are at risk of severe symptoms and can develop pneumonia or severe eye ulceration and it can be fatal in some cases, particularly in young kittens. Cats concurrently infected with

FIV or FeLV may be more at risk due to a reduced immune response. Many of these infections ‘build’ up in multi-cat households, particularly on farms where multiple age groups co-exist, and breeding colonies and careful isolation and quarantine may be necessary to prevent infection spreading to vulnerable individuals. Chronic rhinitis is a potential consequence of permanent damage from previous cat flu infection leading to ongoing sneezing and thick nasal discharge. Vaccination is readily available for herpes and calici virus – and FeLV virus – and in high-risk situations, such as breeding colonies, vaccination against chlamydophila can also be provided. It is important to realise that vaccination is only effective before infection has occurred and fully vaccinated cats which have previously had cat flu can develop symptoms again at times of stress.

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New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Field & Stream

‘Never in a previous life did I envisage myself hiring out rams across the southern counties’ by Tria Stebbing WE have decided not to lamb next spring. After considering many factors, we have opted to let the Highland cows do their thing instead, so will take time away from lambing. Which leaves us with some very virile rams wanting to sew their annual oats. The circle in which we reside consists mainly of other smallholders and sheep keepers and word got out we had some rams looking for something to do. King has been on his holidays near Blandford for over a month now. We met the lovely Emma and her boys at the Shaftesbury and Gillingham

show and got talking about breeding sheep. Many smallholders do not have the extra land to keep the rams on when they are not working – they also need company, so for some keeping their own ram is not an option. So, as with everything these days, an internet search of ‘hire a ram near me’ can throw up – among other things – a list of people who hire their rams out. We selected King because of his incredible sweet nature, and the fact he is proven – last year, if you recall, he went on his holidays to the care farm. Very adaptable, he enjoyed his trip in the trailer and seemed

blackmorevale.net

Tria Stebbing has decided not to lamb next spring

impressed with the flock of women waiting for him on his arrival. We fitted him with his raddle and left him there, relevant paperwork completed, and have had reports he has made lots of new friends. Today, a lovely lady from the Somerset Levels came to browse our now extensive choice of rams. As is usually the case, her eyes were drawn to Hero, our castrated male, due to his size and conformation. He was castrated as a lamb, as he was born with Wall Eye, a white eye, which meant we would never be able to show him or sell him – we regret it now as he again has a lovely temperament. He always has friends around him, though, as obviously he

can live with either the rams or the ewes. She decided on Humphrey, our boy from Luton. Well-marked and proven, he is quite a catch, so is off to Somerset this week for his break. I expect he will find it quite flat and uninteresting there after grazing his way around the most picturesque paddocks in Dorset. Payment is optional and with hay, food or anything else to benefit the flock. Never in a previous life did I envisage myself hiring out rams across the southern counties. It vis good to know though that even if we are not lambing next spring, we will be continuing to support British farming – in our own way!

Tree recycling will help good cause HOUSEHOLDS can book in a collection for their real Christmas tree – and help a county charity. As decorations start to go up across Dorset and beyond, Weldmar Hospicecare has launched a Christmas Treecycle scheme. People can book in a real Christmas tree collection in January 2024 in return for a suggested minimum donation of £10 a tree to the charity. Collections will be made between Saturday, January 6, and Monday, January 8, in the Blandford, Sherborne, Shaftesbury, Gillingham Dorchester, Weymouth, Portland, Beaminster and Bridport, areas.

Weldmar Hospicecare has launched its 2023 Christmas Treecycle campaign

The initiative is again supported by the locally-run Trinity St Christmas Trees, which will be making the collections on Weldmar’s behalf, alongside Weldmar volunteers, and helping to dispose of the trees in an eco-friendly manner. Fundraising lead Fiona Hansford said money raised through the scheme will make

a significant difference for those who need the charity’s care. “This will be the sixth year of running Weldmar’s Christmas Treecycle, and each year it has grown, every donation for every tree collected means that we can continue to provide specialist care for adults in Dorset living with a life-limiting illness, and support for their loved ones,” she said. “I’m looking forward to going out and helping with the collections again this year.” Tamzin Hyde, from Trinity St Christmas Trees, added: “As a Dorset-based Christmas tree grower and retailer, we are delighted to be partnering on

this scheme with Weldmar once again. “Last year was a record year and we were able to collect more than 1,200 trees, which raised an amazing £12,500 for the charity, this will make an incredible difference to people across Dorset. “Weldmar are a great charity we are pleased to support and this is a fantastic scheme, supporting our community, that we are extremely proud to be involved with.” To book a collection date, or find out more about volunteering with tree collections, log on to weldmarhospicecare.org/ trees.

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Farming

blackmorevale.net

Kitchen smells rekindle those memories of Christmases past by Ruth Kimber THE dreary days of November, with short days and long nights, make for hard work to get all the jobs done. Light has such a positive effect on working outside, it’s never the same or as easy under false lighting. Work on the parlour continues, but we haven’t made contact with the meter exchange folk – they don’t answer emails, phones, nothing. Is it any wonder productivity in this country continues to go down, time is wasted on jobs that should be so much easier. Funny, there was no problem when I paid up front for the job! Hold on, I just had an email saying they are going to do the job early December! The leaves are falling fast. While on our way to Bath

Farmers’ Market last week, we drove up past King Alfreds Tower, and at 6.15am went through a storm of falling golden beech leaves coming down like snow – the road was covered in them – but by the time we returned at 3pm they had been pulverised into a muddy slush! One of our favourite old oak trees finally fell, a ‘smallish’ scrubby tree with a gnarly trunk, complete with rotten voids where a barn owl set up home. We have

grown several acorns and now the little trees are big enough to be planted out. It will be keeping the deer off them which will be the challenge. We have seen muntjac on the farm, they are a particular menace where young trees are concerned, as grey squirrels are, too. A favourite trick of the squirrel is to nibble all around the little trunks causing them to die or pick up disease. The deer take out the tops, ruining the chance of them turning into a fine tree. The turkeys are doing well – we grew an early batch especially for American Thanksgiving and they went well. The orders are coming in quickly and we are getting the processing barn ready for action. Hampers and vouchers are again popular with local businesses to give to their staff. When I was a child, I loved the Christmas season, the

preparation beforehand, the smells of Christmas cake and pudding making and cooking, it was us children’s job to skin the blanched almonds, stone the prunes and sometimes de-pip the lovely big juicy raisins. The smell of black treacle, stout brown sugar and spices infusing on the stove, the mixtures had to rest overnight, and woe betide anyone found pinching anything! Then, of course, the reward of licking the bowl after. Clare was making another batch of Christmas cakes in the shop kitchen, filling it with lovely aromas, taking me back to my mother’s farmhouse kitchen in Cucklington. We are hosting Christmas Day for most of the family this year, and with the use of our Christmas Day WhatsApp, the chores will be divided out, so not too onerous! n Kimbers Farm Shop, The Kitchen at Kimbers, Somerset Trading Barn. Linley Farm, Charlton Musgrove BA9 8HD. Phone: 01963 33177. www.kimbersfarmshop.co.uk, info@kimbersfarmshop.co.uk. Opening times Tuesday-Friday 8.30am-5pm, Saturday 9.30am4.30pm.

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New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Farming

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New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Farming

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th MONTH SALE OF FAT C P ……………………………………… LICENS SALE OF FAT C ……………………… …EVERY P FORTNIGHTLY SALE

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FORTNIGHTLY SALE OF PIGS – WEDNESDAY 6 SEPTEMBER SUPREME HANDLED CHAMPION 4.05p/kg & £2382 FORTNIGHTLY SALE OF REARED CALVES – WEDNESDAY 13TH RESERVE SUPREME HANDLED CHAMPION 445p/kg & £2707 SEPTEMBER

…………………………………………………………………...………………………………………………………………………………………… UN HANDLED CHAMPION 300p/kg & £2147 ….

UN HANDLED RESERVE CHAMPION 305p/kg & £215518th MONTHLY SALE OF TB RESTRICED CATTLE MONDAY CHAMPION BARREN COW 220p/kg & £1641 SEPTEMBER CHAMPION CALF LICENSES MUST BE OBTAINED ONE£495 WEEK BEFORE SALE

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…………………………………………………………………...………………………………………………………………………………………… CHAMPION LAMBS £162, CHAMPION PIGS £345 ….

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New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

GTH 6-11_Layout 1 04/11/2020 10:54 Page 1

Farming

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G R E E N S L A D E TAY L O R H U N T Forthcoming Dairy Sales GTH Farm Sales

Telephone: 01278 410250. Email: livestock@gth.net Telephone: 01278 410250. Email: SEDGEMOOR CENTRE SEDGEMOOR AUCTION AUCTION CENTRE NORTH PETHERTON, SOMERSET, TA6 6DF (M5, J24) NORTH PETHERTON, SOMERSET, TA6 6DF (M5, J24) Further details at www.gth.net th

Tuesday 10 November at 10.30am with the Heifer Calves

The November Collective Dairy Sale of Forthcoming Deadstock 305 DAIRY CATTLE & Fodder Sales n 87 Freshly Calved Cows & Heifers from Beneknowle, Bettiscombe

SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE Dorset (x11) (x14) Birchwood (x18 Dispersal) Clevian, Dinnaton, Hinton, Huntlodge, Lilylane, Peacehay & Rothereld Farms LLP (x12, Crossbreds) n 16 Incalf Cows from Rothereld Farms LLP (Crossbreds) n 37 Incalf Heifers fromCOLLECTIVE Dayhouse, PTMACHINERY & JC Hinds (Pedigree), SEDGEMOOR SALE Rothereld Farms LLP (Crossbreds) & J2023 & J Waldron THURSDAY 14th DECEMBER at 10.30am (Items be delivered Wednesday 13th December between 9.30am - 4.30pm) n 3 to Holstein Bulls from Beneknowle & Woodstone ENTRIES TO DATE: Massey Ferguson 188 4WD TRACTOR; Ford 5000 n 8 Bulling Heifers from Greathill & Mr D Thorner 4WD TRACTOR; Ford 4000 TRACTOR; Massey Ferguson 21 TRACTOR; n 40 Yearling Heifers Sutton Farms (2010) Honda TRX 420 from QUAD BIKE;Hall (2015) Kubota RTV 900 UTILITY VEHICLE; Ifor Williams 12’x6’6’’ TRAILER c/w Mesh Sides; &Ifor n 52 Heifers Calves from Hinton, Pensdown, Thakeham MrWilliams D Plant TRAILER; Pottinger Europrofi 4500 FORAGE WAGON; Marshall Thorner ROTASPREADER; Major 800 TOPPER; Bale WRAPPER; Dowdeswell 4F To Include The Dispersal Sale of Rev PLOUGH; Twose LINKBOX; Moulton YARD SCRAPER; Post DRILL; 4’ Dung GRAB; Boythorpe Slurry PUMP; Fuel COWS BOWSER; IAEHEIFERS Calf CREEP 62 HOLSTEIN AND FRIESIAN DAIRY AND FEEDER; IAE Cattle CRUSH c/w Head SCOOP; Cattle CRUSH; Plough Comp: 47 Dairy Cows & Heifers Inmilk &/or Incalf; 12 Incalf Heifers & SPARES; Pallet FORKS; Qty of Tractor BUCKETS; Post AUGER; Euro 3 Maiden Heifers 8 BRACKETS; Pair of Tractor WHEELS; 2 x 20’ Shipping CONTAINERS; CONTAINERS; Road Round Bale FEEDER; etc. n NMR HERD AV:COMPRESSOR; 8039 KGS. 4.11%BF; 3.34%P; SCC=127 To include Special Entry from the Estate of the Late Mr J Bacon: Ford TW30 n HERRINGBONE Parlour; CUBICLE Housed 4WD TRACTOR; New Holland 7840 4WD TRACTOR; International W4 2WD n CLOSED for M 13CRAWLER; years TRACTOR; AllisHERD Chalmers New Holland 717 Trailed FORAGER; New Holland Discbine 534 MOWER; Massey Harris DICKIE; Nicholson GDW Isaac & Son (Removed CULTIVATOR; For Twose CULTIVATOR; Mole PLOUGH; from Titan Beer SquareFarm, PLOUGH (4F + 2F) etc. **Further Entries Accepted** Broadhembury, Honiton, Devon) A 10% Buyers Premium (+ VAT) will be charged on all lots subject to a cap of £250 (+ VAT)

per lot. Buyers not known to the Auctioneers are required to provide photographic ID to The large selection of high yielding milkers and dispersal sale cattle obtain a buyers number. Payment by cash and debit card only. (including Pedigree, Commercial and Crossbred) with all Live bidding on Marteye, please register in advance atcoupled gth.marteye.ie types of dairy youngstock makes this one of our most At https://gth.marteye.ie comprehensive sales December to date just when are7.00pm starting to Thursday 14th 2023dispersals finishing slow down across the country. Please note that Social Distancing Collective Fodder Online Timed Auction will be in and we ask that only one purchaser per farming Entries to place include: business attend. Online Bidding Available Marteye. Hay 38 square at Wellington, 50 round aton Taunton; 40 square & 150 round at Bridgwater; 80 round at Langport; NOVEMBER: Thurs 19th Silage 80 round at Curry Rivel; 60 Square at Wellington; 34 round at SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE. Dispersal Sale of milking and Taunton; 105 at Bridgwater incalf of the 9,160 kgs CIS dairyrape herd 300 portion square wheat at Christchurch; 50 recorded square oil seed Straw heifer being 200 Holstein50 Friesians MB & LC (Removed at Taunton; wheat atfor Taunton; 80 Haskell conventional wheat from at Beaulieu Wellington Wood Farm, Dorchester, Dorset for convenience of sale).

** Please register on gth.marteye.ie at your earliest opportunity to ensure we can approve you **

DEC Sat 16th

Sedgemoor Auction Centre

SEDGEMOOR

AUCTION

CENTRE.

The

December

North Petherton, Somerset, 6DFSilage (M5, and Junction Collective Fodder AuctionTA6 of Hay, Straw.24) Telephone: 01278 410278 TOTAL STOCK FOR THE WEEK 7143 Stock North from across the West Country, buyers Petherton, Somerset, TA6sold 6DF to (M5, J24) from throughout the Nation Telephone: 01278 410278 www.gth.net for TOTAL STOCKReturns FOR THE WEEK 5566 st October 2020 Saturday 31 Stock from across the West Country,

Sedgemoor Auction Centre DAIRY CATTLE (73) Heifers to £2080. Others £2020. Cows to £1840. Others sold to buyers throughout the Nation £1720. (1184) STORE CATTLE &from STIRKS - FORWARD STORES (933) Steers to Returns Saturday 2nd &December 2023 £1365 (FLE). Othersfor £1300 (AA) £1295 (LIMX) £1270 (LIMX). Heifers to £1265 DAIRYOthers CATTLE (61)(CHX) Heifers to £2380. £2350.&Cows £1950. Others (CHX). £1235 £1200 (LIMX)Others £1155 (LIMX) £1150 to (HEX). GRAZING £1880.(2) (719) STORE CATTLE & STIRKS FORWARD (443) COWS to £615 (LIMX). Others £580 (LIMX). -SUCKLERS (4)STORES Cows & Calves Steers £1660 (LIMX). Others (AA)(LIMX). £1530Others (AA) &£870 £1520 to £850to(4x). STIRKS (247) Steers£1645 to £880 (3x(BRBX). LIMX & Heifers to £1585 (BRBX). Others £1550 (AA) £1375 (HEX) & £1330 (BRBX). BRBX) £855 (BRBX) & £835 (LIMX). Heifers to £818 (LIMX). Others £720 (BRBX) GRAZING COWS (13) to £1280 (BRBX). STIRKS (276) Steers to £1050 &(CHX). £700 Others (AA). CALVES (408)£985 - Beef Bulls to £400 (CH). Others £990 (CHX) (AA) & £930 (HEX). Heifers to £398 £775 (BRBX) (CHX). £390 (BRBX) & £388 (BRBX). Heifers to £300 (2x BRBX & CHX). Others £285 (CHX) £278 (BRBX) & £275 (LIMX). Black & Whites to £182. Others £165. (4675) SHEEP Store Lambs (2720) to £100. Others £99, £96 & £95. Overall Ave £74.88. Cull Ewes & Rams (1197) Ewes to £137. Others £133. Rams to £166.

Others £725 (AA) £720 (CHX) & £700 (BRBX). CALVES (409) - Beef Bulls to Others £96. Overall (204) to £143 (2x). FRIDAY £375 (CHX). OthersAve £370£67.10. (CHX)BREEDING £350 (CHX)EWES & £345 (BRBX). Heifers to £350 TH BREEDING EWE SALE £305 (459)(2x to CHX) £122. & GOATS (11) to £187.&Overall 30 (CHX). Others £315 (BRBX) £288 (AA). Black Whitesave to TH STOCK RAM SALE £92.64. RAMSSHEEP (12) to £225 (2x).LAMBS Others £136. FRIDAY 30Others £165. (3582) - STORE (2295) to £126. £118 & £116. (72) to £610 a powerful Overall Ave for £86.09. CULLshearling. EWES &Others RAMS£470. (1147) Ewes to £210. Others £180 &The £168. BREEDING EWES (103) toto £158. OverallAbattoirs average £69.17. West Country’s Gateway National COUPLES (1E & 2L) to £200 (£66.67/life). GOATS (34) to £155. Overall nd Returns for Monday 2 November 2020 average £98.06. PRIME CATTLE (93) Steers UTM av 187.4ppk to 213.5ppk & £1,327.28. Others The West Country’s to Others National Abattoirs 209.5ppk, 209.0ppk, 208.0ppkGateway & 206.5ppk. £1,293.63, £1,287.00, Returns for Monday 4th December 2023 (2x) and £1,283.12, £1,280.30 & £1,261.77. Heifers UTM av 180.7ppk to 214.5ppk PRIME CATTLE Steers204.0ppk, UTM av 277.4ppk 349.5ppk & £2,202.31. £1,310.50. Others(110) 204.5ppk, 199.0ppkto(2x) & 197.0ppk. Others Others 331.5ppk, 329.5ppk & 324.5ppk. £2,191.37, & £1,233.42, £1,205.05, £1,201.20, £1,168.50 &Others £1,138.32. BARREN£2,131.55 COWS (56) £2,070.92. Heifers UTM 278.0ppk to 532.5ppk and117.5ppk. £3,000.97. Others Continental av 118.5ppk to av 119.5ppk and £808.40. Others Native Beef 498.5ppk, 399.5ppk & 379.5ppk. Others £2,902.13, £2,595.78 & £2,297.13. av 103.6ppk to 126.5ppk Steers OTM av 214.4ppk and £906.75. Others 124.5ppk & 118.5ppk. Others £882.97 & £861.77. Dairy av 97.8ppk to OTM 113.5ppk £966.89. 112.5ppk to 233.5ppk and £1,517.30. Heifers av and 232.4ppk to Others 269.5ppk and & 109.5ppk.BARREN Others £945.73 & £914.63. FINISHED SHEEP (654) Lamb and ave £1,583.16. COWS (52) Continental av 165.7ppk to 226.5ppk 202.94ppk 231.0ppk 230.0ppk, & 219.0ppk. £2,190.30. to Native Beefand av £115.00. 120.0ppkOthers to 148.5ppk and220.0ppk £1,113.75. Dairy av Others £113.00, £108.00 (5x)£1,455.45. & £106.50.FINISHED SHEEP Lambs (484) ave 120.9ppk to 174.5ppk and 279.75ppk to 776.0ppk and £380.00. Others 523.0ppk, 368.0ppk & 357.0ppk. Others £298.00, £162.00 & £157.00. Special Sales Forthcoming

Forthcoming Special Sales

For full rules on market attendance and up to date sales list please refer to our website and/or Saturday market report. For an up to NOVEMBER: Satdate 7th sales list please refer to our website https://www.gth.net/sedgemoor-auction-centre Monthly Catalogued Sale of Organic Store Stock 10am Saturday December Ring 2: Saturday 9th 7th November Monthly Catalogued Sale of Monthly 125 Suckler & Bulls Bulls Suckler Cows, Cows, Calves, Heifers & Sale commences at approxRing 12.30pm Ring 1 Approx 12.30pm 1 ** Live bidding on MartEye, please register in advance at gth.marteye.ie ** Entries to date include:Entries to date include: n The sale ofAngus, 50 Incalf Suckler Cows (Sim, Ch, * 10dispersal Bulls – Aberdeen British Blue, Charolais, Hereford, Lim, He & AAx) all pd’d to calf Feb onwards to Ped Highland & Limousin * 41 Cowsbull & 41for Calves at foot – Ped Hereford, Ped Highland, Charolais NB Needham & Sons, Old Henley Ped Limousin, Aberdeen Angus, Bazadaise, British Blue, British Farm, Dorchester (changing farming policy). Friesian, Blonde, Charolais, Hereford, Longhorn, Limousin & n 3 Bulls – Ch, He & Lim Sussex * 58 Incalf CowsCows & Heifers – Ped–Hereford, Pedcows Limousin, n 42 Continental & Calves 6 Ped Lim & calves Aberdeen Angus,&British Blue, Charolais, Hereford, Limousin, n 14 Saler Native Cows Calves & Shorthorn n 58 Cows & Hfrs 1 Ped Lim & 1 Ped He * 3Incalf Maiden Heifers – Ped–Highland For further information Meg on 01278 410278 Included in the above 1 Bull,contact 6 Cows & Calves, 4 Incalf Cows &1 Incalf7th Heifer – predominantly Pedigree & Limousin cross Sat Fortnightly Sale ofLimousin Pigs 11am being dispersal due to retirement on behalf of EA Sat 14ath genuine ***CANCELLED*** Collective Catalogued Cox & Son. 1 Bull, 3 Cows & Calves and 14 Incalf Cows – Pedigree of Purebred **CANCELLED*** Herefords being aSale genuine dispersal Poultry due to retirement on behalf th Tucker, Glastonbury. of IC &19 CM ***CANCELLED*** Monthly General Sale of Thurs Antiques and Furniture ***CANCELLED*** DEC st Sat 21 Fodder SaleCatalogued 1pm Monthly Seasonal Sale of In Lamb Ewes & Sat 9th Market Dedicated Sale for bTB Wed 25th Ewe Orange Lambs 12pm Fortnightly Sale ofCattle. Pigs 10am Sat 16th Restricted Store Cattle – 15 Months Market Dedicated Sale for bTB Restricted Wed 20th Orange & Over, Prime Cattle & Barren Cattle. Store Cattle – 15 Months & Over, Cows.Stock Prime Cattle & to be booked in with the office by Barren Cows. Stock to be bookedmarket in with the market th 13th December. Sale commences 4.30pm office November. Licences to be obtained 18by Special Catalogued Sale of Standards Clean Plucked Sat 23rd from Truro Trading on Christmas 03000 Poultry 11am 200301 or Sale commences 4.30pm Mon 25th Christmas Day - Bank Holiday - Market Office Closed th Boxing Day - Seasonal Bank Holiday - No Market Tues Monthly Catalogued Sale -ofMarket Fri 2726th Office Closed Ewes & Ewe Lambs 3pm Breeding Normal Store Market Sat 30th th Sat MonthlyChristmas Sale of Native Store Beef CattleFemale 10am Ring 2 Sedgemoor Pedigree Sale. Sat 28 30th

160

JAN 2024 Mon 1st

Entries close Monday 11 th December.

Fodder NewForthcoming Years Day – Bank Holiday Sale – No Market – Market Office Closed st NOVEMBER: Sat 21 Normal Prime Market Tues 2nd

SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE. The Collective Fodder Auction of Hay, Silage and Straw. Entries to be in by Monday 9th November 2020.

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023 blackmorevale.net

Farming

NFU message at climate event IT’S time to move forward from discussions to implementing actions at scale to tackle the climate crisis – that was the message from the NFU to the UK Government as the Prime Minister met other world leaders at COP28 in Dubai last week. The NFU is calling on the UK Government to urgently implement practical, progressive policies that will support the net zero transition and help British farmers adapt to a changing climate, so they can continue to provide nutritious, climate-friendly food for people at home and abroad. This includes policies such

as supporting carbon auditing on farms, standardising carbon calculators and investing in water management infrastructure. The climate summit marks the end of a year which has seen record-breaking temperatures and extreme weather events wreak havoc on food production across the world, putting national and global food security at risk. As the sole representatives of British agriculture present at COP28, the NFU was working with the World Farmers’ Organisation and other members of the Farmers’ Constituency to influence the negotiations.

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The New

Blackmore Vale

Magazine

Turn to page 22 for our Christmas & New Year Deadlines

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or find us at

www.southwesttyreservices.co.uk

Equestrian 2023 SMALL BALE MEADOW HAY Sedgehill Shaftesbury Quality hay from well managed low input grassland. Early June and second growth also diverse 80/20 wildflower meadow mix hay. From £5.00

07973 318593

Property PROPERTY TO LET PROPERTY TO LET Self contained two bedroom annex on quiet farm near to Buckhorn Western/Kington Magna. Tel 07989 996230. LODGING WITH ALL AMENITIES OFFERED IN SMALL COTTAGE. Quiet rural location 10km from Sherborne. Garden with far ranging views, woodland, parking, studio. Household management and weekly shopping trip required to support old person interested in PPE topics. Rent is half outgoings currently equal to £435pcm. Please call 07786 033659. A SELF-CONTAINED MODERN GROUND FLOOR OFFICE, rural location with countryside views. Comprises an entrance lobby, open plan office, kitchen and accessible WC. Shared secure car park with 3 allocated spaces. Located in Fovant, £13,000 + VAT per year. Call 01722 744494 or sales@brightseeds.co.uk for more information.

2 INDUSTRIAL UNITS FOR RENT Approx 1800 sqft each 3 phase possible Melcombe Bingham 07725 910364 SOUTH CHERITON Asking price £750,000 Agricultural tied dwelling in South Cheriton comprising five bedroomed chalet style bungalow set in fifteen acres with an outbuilding. EPC D Please call Morton New on 01747 824547 for more information The New

Blackmore Vale

Magazine

Turn to page 22 for our Christmas & New Year Deadlines IMAGINE HAVING YOUR OWN: 3/4 Bed House, Garden, Large Workshop/Garage and Home Office – all in one place – all for £370,000. Modern 3 bed end of terrace on larger than average plot with all the above on the edge of Blandford Forum in nice residential area with plenty of driveway parking and garden back and front. Also, full planning permission to extend the Workshop/Garage to nearly twice its size. House has modern kitchen, 2 bathrooms, 3 upstairs bedrooms, large lounge and a dining room that could be the 4th downstairs bedroom with ensuite with very little alteration. Freehold and no chain. Please phone Mark or Will on 01258-452444 – to view.

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Items for sale

blackmorevale.net

CLASSIFIED ADS SNOW COMING! Fully renovated selection of toboggans ideal xmas present Tel: 01747 820541

NEW BIG WHITE TEDDY £20 phone 01935 412892 LADIES TAN SHEEPSKIN JACKET 38-40 ex con £25.00, Phone 01935 412892

UPRIGHT FREEZER. £95. 07588 053555

BRAND NEW IRONING BOARD unwanted Gift £15. 01935 412892

VINTAGE WHARFEDALE LINTON SPEAKERS £40 Technics RS-T20 Cassette Player/ Recorder £20. Tel. 07807 043268 WHITE BIDET £25 Tel: 07971 902353 DRAUGHTSMAN’S OFFICE HIGH CHAIR. Adjustable. Hardly used £35. sturstamps@aol.com PRACTICAL MOTORIST MAGAZINES. 65 copies available from March 1937-July 1938. 5 for £20. 07747 098126 AIR RIFLE 22, HIGH POWERED £49.99 Tel 07970 742471

KMISE TENOR 26in HAWAII UKULELE with bag, strap and tuner, hardly used. £40 - 01258 475378 XMAS TREE STAND solid steel hand made weight over 7 kg £25 buyer collects wincanton 01963 824376 LADIES WINTER COATS. size 12/14 assorted . ten pounds each. 07566 726935. ROLL-UP GUEST MATTRESS, 4 x 6 ft. 6 in., striped cotton cover. 01935 813896 (Sherborne) £15

SMALL DOG BACKPACK CARRIER. £3. 01258 472826

MORPHY RICHARDS Clarity Soupmaker, model 501050. Brand new with instructions. £50 Tel: 07851 408667

MILITARY LED FIGURES, from £3 each. 01747 840835

SOLID PINE WINE RACK (12 bottles) with cupboard £25, 07598 982824

SINGER ELECTRIC SEWING MACHINE incorporated with own table. £50. 01963 371315

GENTLEMANS SHEEPSKIN COAT by Bailys of Glastonbury V.G.C. £50 Phone 01722 323066(evenings)

WHITE 6 PANEL DOOR. 30” x 78” . £20. 01258 452118 3 DRAWER FILING CABINET. £20. Gillingham 01747 824240 OYSTER 2 BUGGY, Carrycot & Covers. Blue, excellent condition; reversible; includes Instruction manual; £35 01963 351526 Castle Cary SINGLE INFLATABLE MATTRESS plus pump as new. £7.00 Tel. 07981 580540 ORNATE BLACK WROUGHT IRON GATE. 6ft high, 32” wide. £35. 01747 830471 RED & BLACK WHEEL TRIMS 16”, new, still in wrapper, £10. 07754 612761 MARVEL GREATEST COMICS and Marvel Vehicle Owner’s Workshop Manual - hardbacks. 1000 Tattoos book. All as new. £5 each. 01747 855603 ELECTRIC GUITAR in the style of a stratocaster. VGC £25 07767 241803 UNDER COUNTER FRIDGE less than a year old in good condition £49 phone 01460 76628

AVIARY PANELS and roll of wire. Offers. 01963 33156 PINE BOOKCASE 100cms x 84 x 30. 3 shelves. Sturdy. Ex.Con. Smoke/ Pet Free home. £50. Blandford area. 07874 266213 LIGHT COLOURED HARDWOOD CD Tower with hinged door. 92cms x 22 x 19. Very good condition. 5 shelves. £25. Smoke/Pet free home. Blandford area. 07874 266213 ROCKING DOLL’S COT. Painted Wood. 22cm W x 56cm L x 50cm H. £5. 01935 426745/07852 851493. Yeovil.

BABY, 4 MONTHS PLUS, SKIPHOP activity centre. £50 as new. 07588 053555

PINE CARVED FIREPLACE SURROUND, complete with incorporated mantelpiece. v.g. condition. 118 mm high; 132 mm wide. Offers; buyer collects. £20 ONO, 01747 830847 (Semley).

WHITE SHOWERBASE £20. 07588 053555 GOLF CLUBS, Full set of Slazenger left handed golf clubs and trolley, £50, 01935 421313

INCUBATOR. Brinsea Polyhatch. 42 egg with automatic turning. Immaculate. £50. 07585 972482

HORNBY OO GAUGE TRAIN TRACK, two rail system 45 pieces: Curves and straights various, points, uncouplers, buffers. £50. Tel: 01747 828640

GENTS SMART GREEN BRONTE tweed jacket, size XL as new £35 07902-986203 BRAND NEW GORTEX WOLVERINE Working Boots. Colour Brown Size 11. £40 ono 01747 870778

LIMA 00 GAUGE CARRIAGES, 3 British Railways brown and cream. Brake Corridor Coach, Restaurant Car, Corridor Coach, £35 VGC Tel: 01747 828640

PRETTY 40 PIECE TEA/DINNER SERVICE. Matching accessories and tea pot. Some items new. Bargain £30. Tel: 01935 813920

BLACK & DECKER VACUUM CLEANER, Dustbuster Extreme, 12v, DV1205N Cordless. Good clean working order £18 Tel: 01747 828640

3 WHEEL DRIVE ROLLATOR with zipper bag in good condition £35 Tel: 01747-840317

100’S OF PLASTIC TOY SOLDIERS, Cowboys, Native Americans, Knights . Also Planes , artillery, Vehicles etc. £30.00 the lot. 01747 838882

WARMLITE HALOGEN HEATER, boxed as new. £15. Mere 07787 902130

LONG LENGTH GREY WOOL/cash coat, detachable black faux fur collar size 12, £30. Tel 07706 95184

BIONIX DEEP TISSUE MUSCLE massage roller £5, Mere 07787 902130

4 STEP, STEEL STEPS, as new, £30 with side handles. Castle Cary: 01963 359618

FOLDING WIRE DOG CRATES: L76cm x W48cm x H53cm £10, L90cm x W61cm x H71cm £15, Both £20, 07394 471525

FREE! up to £50

SHAFTESBURY LIBRARY’S CHILDREN’S Christmas activities. Saturday 9th December, 11.00am to 12noon. Booking essential via Eventbrite. For more information call: 01747 852256 or email at shaftesburylibrary@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

PANASONIC 32” COLOUR TV, with free-view. £50. Tel: 01935-507375

Classified Adverts

1 ad per contact number. Please limit to:

15 words or less

household items only classified@blackmorevale.net

DELONGHI OIL - Filled Radiator, 240v / 1.5 kw, Gwo, used but in original box. £30 Stalbridge, 07860 728087 LARGE LOVEBIRD/BIRDCAGE. £25. In good condition. Tel: 07743 731685

BEIGE 2-SEATER SETTEE. Free to collect/Blandford area. Tel: 07842 338678 HOUSE MOVE/STORAGE - 25 strong cardboard boxes (up to 12kg). All made up. £25 Tel: Street 01458 443264

GENTS DRESS SUIT worn twice 38-40 £30. 01935 412892

FREE CLASSIFIED ADS

ELECTRIC LIFT/RECLINE CHAIR, (CosiChair) Beige, clean, no marks, Pet free home. Good condition, £150, Tel: 01747 590820

WANTED LADIES LEATHER JACKET. Small. 27” or more long. 01935 815648 WANTED 1946 Model Rayburn no.1 block bricks. Left hand burner. Ordinary coal model. 01985 844449

OLD BOOKS BOUGHT. Will call by appointment entirely without obligation. Bristow & Garland 07392 602014

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

hapman

oore

For the Complete Property Package. Agents for Residential, Commercial, Property Investment & Management. Sold

Price Reduction No Forward Chain

GILLINGHAM

More Properties Required Contact The Team

ET 2 Bed En Clk Gdn Pkg

Price Reduction No Forward Chain

Sold

Price £210,000

GILLINGHAM

Price £195,000

Retirement Apartment River View

GILLINGHAM

Price Reduction Central Location

GILLINGHAM

SHAFTESBURY

FF 2 Bed Loft Com Gdn Pkg

Leasehold Price £225,000 C

Price Reduction Viewing Recommended

Price Reduction No Forward Chain

New Instruction No Forward Chain

Price Reduction Character Cottage

New Instruction

ET 2 Bed Cottage Garage

GILLINGHAM

MERE

More Properties Required Contact The Team

Leasehold Price £165,000 D

SD 3 Bed 2 Rec Gdn Garages

MT 2 Bed Courtyard Pkg Space

GILLINGHAM

More Properties Required Contact The Team

Similar Properties Required Contact The Team

2 Bed Shwr Rm Com Gdn Pkg

Leasehold Price £125,000 C

Sold STC

MERE

EAST STOUR

Terr 3 Bed 2 Rec Garden

Price £260,000

Sold

GILLINGHAM

ET 3 Bed Courtyard Pkg

SD 2 Bed 2 Rec Gdn Pkg

Price Reduction Retirement

Price Reduction

Sold

GILLINGHAM

Price £347,500

S/S 1/2 Bed Com Gdn Pkg

Price £157,500

Leasehold Price £179,950 C

Freehold Unit & Yard

Price £149,950

Price £239,950

GILLINGHAM

Similar Properties Required Contact The Team

Townbridge House, High Street, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4AA Telephone/Fax: (01747) 822244 E-mail: chapmanmoore@btconnect.com See all our properties on: www.rightmove.co.uk & www.onthemarket.com

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Property

blackmorevale.net

SOLD

SHERBORNE, DORSET

SUTTON WALDRON, DORSET

STURMINSTER MARSHALL, DORSET

GUIDE PRICE £1,600,000

GUIDE PRICE £595,000

PRICE GUIDE £1,100,000

SOLD

BLANDFORD FORUM, DORSET

EPC Exempt Listed A handsome early Victorian house with extensive accommodation (circa 5,000 sq ft) including self-contained annexe, parking and a large garden close to the town centre.

Blandford 01258 423002 Guide Price £1,200,000

STOURPAINE, DORSET

SHERBORNE, DORSET

ASHMORE, DORSET

GUIDE PRICE £795,000

GUIDE PRICE £330,000

GUIDE PRICE £750,000

SOLD

DORSET LLEIGH, ANGTO N LONG, DORSET

NORTH BREWHAM, SOMERSET

PIMPERNE, DORSET EPC Band D & F

A substantial family house with a two bedroom annexe and a mature south facing garden (of about 0.84 acres) in a lovely rural setting. GUIDE PRICE GUIDE PRICE (TENDER) £350,000 GUIDE PRICE £560,000 Blandford 01258 £1,550,000 423002

Guide Price £1,045,000

SHERBORNE

SHAFTESBURY

BLANDFORD

01935 810141

01747 850858

01258 423002

jackson-stops.co.uk

Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices PROPERTY EXPERTS SINCE 1910

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Property

blackmorevale.net

SOLD

SHERBORNE, DORSET

SUTTON WALDRON, DORSET

STURMINSTER MARSHALL, DORSET

GUIDE PRICE £1,600,000

GUIDE PRICE £595,000

PRICE GUIDE £1,100,000

SOLD

STOURPAINE, DORSET

SHERBORNE, DORSET

ASHMORE, DORSET

GUIDE PRICE £795,000

GUIDE PRICE £330,000

GUIDE PRICE £750,000

SOLD

ELEIGH, A S T K DORSET N O Y L E , W I LT S H I R E

NORTH BREWHAM, SOMERSET

SOLD

PIMPERNE, DORSET

A handsome family house in need of refurbishment in an idyllic position with gardens, pond and a paddock standing in approximatley 7.4 acres. GUIDE PRICE £1,550,000 GUIDE PRICE (TENDER) £350,000 GUIDE PRICE £560,000 Shaftesbury Office 01747 850858

EPC Band F

Guide Price £1,650,000

SHERBORNE

SHAFTESBURY

BLANDFORD

01935 810141

01747 850858

01258 423002

jackson-stops.co.uk

Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices PROPERTY EXPERTS SINCE 1910

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Property

blackmorevale.net

SOLD

SHERBORNE, DORSET

SUTTON WALDRON, DORSET

STURMINSTER MARSHALL, DORSET

GUIDE PRICE £1,600,000

GUIDE PRICE £595,000

PRICE GUIDE £1,100,000

SOLD

MOTCOMBE, DORSET

EPC Band C

A well presented family house backing onto open fields with views towards Kingsettle Wood.

Shaftesbury Office 01747 850858 Guide Price £810,000

STOURPAINE, DORSET

SHERBORNE, DORSET

ASHMORE, DORSET

GUIDE PRICE £795,000

GUIDE PRICE £330,000

GUIDE PRICE £750,000

SOLD

SLEIGH, T O U R DORSET P R O V O S T, D O R S E T

NORTH BREWHAM, SOMERSET

A beautifully presented Grade II listed cottage with an annexe set in a delightful garden. GUIDE PRICE £1,550,000 GUIDE PRICE (TENDER) £350,000 Shaftesbury Office 01747 850858

SOLD

PIMPERNE, DORSET

EPC Exempt

GUIDE PRICE £560,000

Guide Price £735,000

SHERBORNE

SHAFTESBURY

BLANDFORD

01935 810141

01747 850858

01258 423002

jackson-stops.co.uk

Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices PROPERTY EXPERTS SINCE 1910

New Blackmore Vale, December 8, 2023

Property

blackmorevale.net

SOLD

SHERBORNE, DORSET

SUTTON WALDRON, DORSET

STURMINSTER MARSHALL, DORSET

GUIDE PRICE £1,600,000

GUIDE PRICE £595,000

PRICE GUIDE £1,100,000

SOLD

C A N N , S H A F T E S B U RY, D O R S E T

EPC Band F

A well presented stone cottage with far reaching views.

Shaftesbury Office 01747 850858 Guide Price £725,000

STOURPAINE, DORSET

SHERBORNE, DORSET

ASHMORE, DORSET

GUIDE PRICE £795,000

GUIDE PRICE £330,000

GUIDE PRICE £750,000

SOLD

W Y K E , DORSET DORSET LEIGH,

SOLD

NORTH BREWHAM, SOMERSET

SOLD

PIMPERNE, DORSET

A delightful attached house located in attractive communal grounds of approximately 6 acres with lake, swimming pool and tennis court. GUIDE PRICE £1,550,000 GUIDE PRICE (TENDER) £350,000 GUIDE PRICE £560,000 Shaftesbury Office 01747 850858

EPC tbc

Guide Price £595,000

SHERBORNE

SHAFTESBURY

BLANDFORD

01935 810141

01747 850858

01258 423002

jackson-stops.co.uk

Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices PROPERTY EXPERTS SINCE 1910

HEARING LOSS? EARACHE? BLOCKED EARS? EARWAX REMOVAL SPECIALISTS

Sturminster Newton

Sturminster Newton Medical Centre Old Market Hill Sturminster Newton DT10 1QU

Check availability & book at: earwax.co.uk

Shaftesbury

Abbey View Medical Centre Shaftesbury SP7 8DH

0800 422 0156

info@earwax.co.uk