The New Blackmore Vale (09/06/2023)

The New Blackmore Vale

• Page 8: North Dorset beekeepers deal with a swarm on the loose

Page 27: Dorset Historic Churches Trust rewards Silton’s

Editorial deadlines are the Wednesday the week before publication. Display ads must be booked by Wednesday the week before publication, with final copy submitted by the Friday. Classified ads may be accepted after this, however these will be subject to space. EDITORIAL ADVERTISING ADDRESS: 3 Alfred's Way, Wincanton, Somerset, BA9 9RU ONLINE : www.blackmorevale.net Lloyd Armishaw Publisher newsdesk@blackmorevale.net 01963 400186 Lorraine Drake Distributor lorraine_drake@icloud.com 07850 529937 Kye Harman Sports Editor sports@blackmorevale.net 01963 400186 Phoenix Witt-Tower Classified Adverts adverts@blackmorevale.net 01963 400186 Lynsey Swaine Account Manager lynsey.swaine@blackmorevale.net 07714 289416 Debi Thorne Advertising Sales Manager Debi.thorne@blackmorevale.net 07714 289409 Jane Toomer Senior Account Manager Jane.toomer@blackmorevale.net 07714 289411 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 Announcements 69-73 Antiques & Collectables 47-49 Arts & Entertainment 42-43 Business 95 Church 38 Education 28 Events 35-37 Farming 82-88 Field & Stream 81 Food & Drink 65 Health & Wellbeing 66-67 Home & Garden 50-55 Items For Sale/Wanted 80 Letters 46 Local Services 56-64 Motoring 66-69 Pets 78-79 Politics 39-41 Property 89-95 Puzzles 44-45 Recruitment 74-76 Sport 77

A weekend of flowers, art and music

Historic village on the River Stour is getting ready to put on a show of floral artistry

WORK is well under way in Stour Provost to prepare for the flower festival on Saturday and Sunday, June 17 and 18, open from 10.30am to 5pm.

This hidden gem of a village, with links to William the Conqueror and outwardly little-changed since medieval times, is looking forward to welcoming visitors to a full weekend of glorious flower displays, all-day music and an art exhibition, together with coffee, cakes and cream teas.

The festival – part of this year’s ambitious fundraising for the Grade I listed St Michael and All Angels Church as well as the village hall – presents a celebration of flowers in the church together with a varied programme of live music, ranging from a capella songs, folk music and a ukulele band, to organ pieces, saxophone duets and more. Visitors can enjoy the music while they explore the floral decorations and historical features of the 14th century building. Can you spot the scratch dial used to mark prayer times? And the outline of the old ‘Devil’s Door’ through which evil spirits escaped?

Before you leave, perhaps catch a painting demonstration by a botanical artist, then head to the village hall for home-made cakes and a chance to view the art exhibition, with works for sale by local amateur and professional artists, focussing on flowers, trees and natural landscapes. Other events include flower-arranging demonstrations, and a wildflower walk with a local botanist.

The quiet village is tucked away just south of the A30 at East Stour, beside the River Stour, often a surprise even to locals. This will be the perfect opportunity to take a short walk around the village, which remained virtually untouched from the 15th century until 1925. Highlights include a micro museum and the little thatched cottage that once housed local orphans, to the picturesque site of a riverside mill listed in Domesday Book, with its weir and open views across pastureland.

The organisers hope this event, and its setting, will attract a large audience over the weekend of Saturday June 17 and Sunday June 18, 10.30 to 5pm, entry £5, children under 12 free.

For more details contact Jo 01747 838216 or Su 01747 838724.

Fun raising funds

THE Sero charity had its beginnings in 2004 when a group of women in Sturminster Newton got together to raise money for local charities.

It has now raised more than £110,000 for Julia’s House, the Dorset Children’s Hospice, and this summer will be raising more money for the charity.

Sero hopes you can support it at events this summer:

• Child Okeford’s Hey Day on Saturday, July 1, between noon and 4pm. Sero is hosting a stall full of goods and gifts plus a few surprises at Hey Day, a traditional village fete and a great day out for all the family.

• Child Okeford Art Trail, Friday, August 25, to Monday, August 28, 11am-4pm. A variety of artists will be exhibiting in their homes, the community centre and the village hall. Free admission. Art trail leaflets will be available in local shops. Sero will be providing refreshments during the event, including light lunches, at the village hall (DT11 8EX).

• Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival, September 9-10, 10am-5pm. Home-made cakes, fresh sandwiches, scones and so on will be available in the Sero tea tent. For more information visit www.cheesefestival.co.uk

The group is always looking for donations of home-made cakes – anyone who can help or who would like to get involved helping at events should contact Kate Partridge on 07725 245066 or Julie Little on 07749 486733, or email info@serocharity.org.uk

Silent experiences

Tank Museum turns down the volume to enable visitors with sensory needs to enjoy its displays and exhibits

QUIET Morning is returning to The Tank Museum at Bovington next week to support visitors with sensory needs.

All sounds and interactives will be turned off on Saturday, June 17, between 9-11am, allowing visitors to explore the story of tanks and their crews, and the collection of armoured vehicles, in a quiet, calm environment.

Quiet Mornings are designed for adults and children with autism, adults living with dementia and visitors with sensory needs who may prefer a more relaxed experience.

Visitor Experience general manager Rosanna Dean said: “As part of our accessibility programme at the museum, we are delighted to offer a series of Quiet Mornings that provide a quiet environment for those with sensory processing needs.

“We look forward to welcoming visitors, who will be able to enjoy our incredible exhibits in a more peaceful setting.”

The museum has developed a sensory backpack for children with neurodivergence and special educational needs – backpacks are available to borrow free of charge every day.

Tickets can be purchased on the day or pre-booked online from tankmuseum.org/quiet-mornings.

Stour Provost flower festival, June 17-18, will be raising money for the village’s Grade I listed St Michael and All Angels Church

Going green

Planet Shaftesbury celebrates Great Big Green Week, from June 10-17

THIS week brings national celebrations of all individual and community actions that tackle climate change and protect nature. Activities in Shaftesbury will be formally opened by Simon Hoare MP at the town hall at 2pm on Saturday, June 10.

Among the town’s Great Big Green Week events there’s a presentation by Dr Gary Mantle, OBE, who is retiring this summer after 33 years as head of Wiltshire Wildlife Trust (WWT).

Gary will be talking about his experiences and the changes he’s seen during this time at the event Climate, nature, community at the town hall on June 15 at 7.30pm. The session is hosted by local environmental network Planet Shaftesbury, which was launched after Gary Mantle spoke about the impact of climate change on local nature and wildlife back in January 2019. Gary hasn’t just seen a lot of changes – he’s had a role in making some of them happen!

Gary’s talk will be followed by Lucy Young, science and policy adviser to WWF-UK, who will describe the recently published ‘People’s Plan for Nature’, leading into a brief discussion of ‘what next for Shaftesbury?’.

The wide spread of local events during Great Big Green Week reflects the range of activities that Planet Shaftesbury has subsequently become known for.

There are guided nature walks, creative workshops, exhibitions, talks and opportunities for reflection throughout the week. There’s

something for everyone. For families and children of all ages, storyteller Taprisha will be offering two separate performances of her magical green stories at Gold Hill Museum on Sunday, June 11, at 1pm and 3pm (pass the hat).

June 12 sees a ‘Mmmm’ evening (Monday meal, movie and mingling) at the Grosvenor Arms. Tickets cost £15 and advance booking is required (call Jenny on 07801240103).

The Abbey hosts both a green medicine workshop with herbalist Julie Wood on Tuesday, June 13, (6.30pm-8.30pm, £12 per person – book at wildhealinggarden.co.uk), and an evening of nature themed songs and folk music while you picnic in the gardens on Wednesday, June 14, from 6pm with free entry, donations to the Abbey (bring chairs and picnic blankets).

Find details of all these and more on the Planet Shaftesbury notice board in Swans Yard and on the special Great Big Green Week website www.greatbiggreenweekshaftesbury.org

Herbalist Julie Wood will be at Shaftesbury Abbey on June 13

West Coker summer road closures

Improvements are long overdue says council, as work planned for summer holiday

AROUND 7,000sqm of the A30 will be resurfaced and traffic lights repaired in West Coker this summer – with the road closed.

The work, in the High Street, will be carried out by Somerset Council and the road will be closed between July 22 and September 4.

The council said the work had been planned during the school summer holidays as data shows traffic on the A30 is reduced by 50 per cent during this period.

The council said it was not possible to keep the road open as there will be significant excavations needed to remove the old traffic signals and accompanying ducting and wiring.

Access for residents and businesses in the immediate area will be maintained

throughout and a diversion will be in place, with bus services diverted.

“These works in West Coker are long overdue and have been welcomed by the community and local members,” said Cllr Mike Rigby, the council’s lead executive member for transport and digital.

“However, it has been made clear that any impact on the community and disruption needs to be minimised and proper support provided.

“Our contractor has confirmed there will be a public liaison worker on-site every day of this road closure. This person will be tasked with dealing with any local issues as and when they arise.

“We’ve also ensured that emergency services can continue to have full access to all properties at all times in West Coker.

“We have to act now and a ‘one hit’ approach in getting both the signals replaced and resurfacing carried out at the

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“The traffic signals need to be replaced before they fail and cause worse disruption, whilst a full resurfacing of the road is needed urgently as the current carriageway is showing significant signs of wear and tear.

“By September we will have completed major long-term improvements on this busy stretch of road and won’t need to return for the foreseeable future.”

Sherborne West candidate

THE Conservative Party candidate for the upcoming Sherborne West by-election has been selected.

Rebecca Burns will stand for the ward in a Dorset Council poll. The Liberal Democrat incumbent, Matthew Ward, resigned from the council after winning a local election in Exmouth, Devon, earlier this month.

Ms Burns’ selection was confirmed by the West Dorset Conservative Association on May 13.

The lifelong Sherborne resident and award-winning business owner previously contested the ward in 2018.

She said: “Sherborne West’s electors rightly deserve a candidate who is local, driven, and who will deliver for them.

“It is also vital that residents have strong communication with their councillors, which I feel has been missing.”

She is an active member of the chamber of trade, Sherborne Future Group and The Rendezvous.

“I know what it is like to live and work in this wonderful town; I want to honour and respect its values and history, while introducing a more modern, refreshed approach to its governance and representation,” she added.

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MP Chris Loder (Con, West Dorset) said: “Rebecca is well-known in the Sherborne West ward and has a wealth of experience that will serve her well when it comes to being a councillor. She has my full support and endorsement.”

Other candidates for the by-election, which has not yet been officially called, are as yet unknown.

For more information on elections to Dorset Council, visit www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/councillors-committees-elections/ elections-and-voting

Police appeal for witnesses after crash

Land Rover Discovery and Royal Mail van involved in incident near Dorchester

A MAN in his 20s suffered life-threatening injuries in a crash near Dorchester on the morning of Wednesday, May 24.

The incident, involving a blue Land Rover Discovery and a Royal Mail van, happened on Westleaze, near Charminster, at around 7.15am.

The driver of the Land Rover, a local man in his 20s, was taken to hospital by air ambulance with life-threatening injuries.

The male driver of the van was taken to hospital with minor injuries.

The road was closed to enable emergency services to safely attend the scene.

Police Sergeant Gareth Thomas, of the Roads Policing Team, said officers were now keen to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident, or has dashcam footage.

“An investigation is underway and I would ask anyone who witnessed the collision, or manner of driving of either vehicle in the moments leading up to it, to please get in touch,” he said.

“Also, I would ask motorists who were travelling in the area with a dashcam fitted to their vehicle to please check for any footage to help my enquiries.

“Finally, I would like to thank the public for their patience and understanding during the road closure.”

Anyone with information should contact Dorset Police via www.dorset.police.uk, by email to scit@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 55230079490.

Fatal accident on A303

Witnesses and dashcam footage sought after layby collision near Ilchester last month

A MAN has died after the car he was driving collided with a lorry parked in a layby on the A303.

The incident happened near Ilchester at around 7pm on Saturday, May 20.

A black Skoda Citigo collided with a lorry and despite the efforts of members of the public,

police, fire and ambulance crews, the driver, the sole occupant of the car, could not be saved.

“His next of kin have been informed and are being supported by a family liaison officer. Our thoughts are with them,” said an Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson.

“We’d like to hear from anyone who saw the collision or has any information or dashcam footage of the car in the moments beforehand.”

Anyone who can help should call 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5223117751.

Schools celebrate the Coronation

Pupils across Dorset have been busy celebrating the Coronation of King Charles III over the last couple of weeks…

Clockwise from top left:

Pupils from Charlton Horethorne Primary enjoyed a cream tea organised by the PTA and parents, and held a design a stamp competition, which was won by Harry, Ottilie and Mangir.

Children at St Mary’s Primary School in Bradford Abbas celebrated the coronation by dressing in red, white and blue, and made crowns for a whole school parade. They then enjoyed a garden party, before visiting the golden carriage made by local villagers.

The children at Shaftesbury Primary School had a super time celebrating the King’s Coronation. They made crowns and flags, learnt the Coronation song, and sang the national anthem. The children then enjoyed a picnic lunch in their classrooms (due to the rain!)

Pupils at St Andrew’s Primary in Fontmell Magna celebrated with a lunch ‘fit for a king’ while wearing their red, white and blue outfits. They sang to families at the end of the day accompanied by keyboard and trumpet plays with a coronation song and a rousing rendition of the national anthem; in true British style they sang on through the rain. All the children created coronation artwork which was displayed for all to enjoy at The Springhead Trust. There were portraits of pupils as young kings and queens, designs for the royal carriage, and abstract pictures of the King.

Children at St Andrew’s Primary School in Yetminster had an afternoon of forest school arts and crafts in honour of the Coronation, including painting flags and crowns and cooking drop scones.

Coronation pathways

Tarrant Gunville and Stubhampton celebrated the Coronation of King Charles III with a unique and exciting legacy project

THREE Coronation pathways have been launched with the support of the Chalke and Chase Landscape Partnership, which is part of the AONB initiative and funded by the National Lottery.

Skylark Loop (6 km), Drover’s Way (9.5 km) and Hancock’s Bottom Hike (11.5km) all start and end at Tarrant Gunville Village Hall.

Useful (and free) maps of each one are available from the hall, and there is also an information board showing all three routes. The Tarrant Gunville Parish Council co-ordinated and part-funded this Coronation Project, with overwhelming help and support from the local community.

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Flying the flag

CONGRATULATIONS to Lily Curtis from Manston, who won a competition organised by Sturminster Newton town council and the Sturminster Newton branch of the Royal British Legion to find the best Coronation flag designs. The children at William Barnes

Primary School and Sturminster Newton High School designed flags to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III. Lily, from William Barnes

The information board was officially unveiled on Sunday, May 7, and the village walked the pathways together. Some brave souls even tackled all 11.5km of Handcock’s Bottom Hike!

An evening entertainment featured a local Horrible Histories drama by Pimperne School and also poetry readings and musical acts, ending in an enthusiastic rendition of Dancing Queen as well as other royally-themed songs from the community choir. The village then danced the night away to The Antler Ceilidh Band.

Primary School, is pictured below with the chairman of the Sturminster Newton Royal British Legion Trevor Legg and the deputy mayor.

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A fete like no other…

It’s summer fete season, and across the Vale enthusiastic organisers are gearing up for sunshine, Pimm’s and fundraising a-plenty…

PIDDLEHINTON church will be welcoming visitors from near and far to its annual fete once again this summer.

The lovely English country garden of The Old Rectory, Rectory Road, Piddlehinton (DT2 7TE) will be the setting of this year’s fete on Saturday, July 15 from 1pm-4pm.

Enjoy a wonderful afternoon of entertainment for the whole family, including a display by Dorchester Ballet and Dance Club, children’s races, coconut shy, skittles, welly wanging and pony rides.

The very popular dog show will have classes for everyone!

All this, and the chance to buy from many well-stocked stalls including bric-a-brac, plants, cakes, preserves and books. There’s also a silent auction and raffle with wonderful prizes on offer.

Relax and enjoy a wide range of refreshments – hog roast, afternoon teas, ice creams and Pimm’s.

Entry is £1.50 for adults; children under 16 get in free. All profits go to charity.

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A Living Trust, also known as a revocable trust or inter vivos trust, is a legal arrangement that allows you to protect your assets, including your home, from care costs and potential inheritance tax implications. Here are a few key points to consider:

1.Asset Protection: By transferring ownership of your home and other assets to a living trust, can help protect them from certain creditors and potential claims, including care costs.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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. You can also name successor trustees to take over the administration of the trust upon your incapacity or death.

The effectiveness of a living trust in achieving your specific goals will depend on your individual circumstances. Oakwood Wills offer a free consultation in the privacy of our own home. Tel 07832 331594 email: info@oakwoodwills.co.uk

Hit the bullseye

Darts comes to Westlands…

SOME of the world’s best darts players will be arrowing in to Somerset next month for a special tournament.

Yeovil’s Westlands will be the venue for the World Seniors Masters tournament on June 24 and 25, featuring the likes of Phil ‘The Power’ Taylor and 10-time world champion Trina Gulliver.

Reigning World Seniors

Darts champion Robert Thornton will be looking to defend his title in Somerset during a star-studded event on the oche.

For more details and to book tickets visit westlandsyeovil.co.uk

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Future-proof farming

Free information is available to help farmers in the South West through Agricultural Transition changes

THE Future Farming Resilience programme provides free information and business skills development workshops to help farmers and land managers navigate the changes brought about by the Agricultural Transition.

Between 2021 and 2027, the government will gradually reduce and then stop Direct Payments. Instead, farmers will be supported to improve the environment, improve animal health and welfare, and reduce carbon emissions.

There will be three levels of support aimed at paying for sustainable farming practices, creating habitats for nature recovery and making landscape-scale change such as establishing new woodland and other ecosystem services.

The move away from Direct Payments will be a big change for some farmers, so they will happen over a 7-year transition period to give time to plan and adjust. The Future Farming Resilience Fund has been funded by DEFRA to provide support to farmers and land managers with this transition.

The support is free and available to any farmer or land manager currently in receipt of BPS payments. Future Farming Resilience is able to support farmers throughout Devon, Somerset, Dorset, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

To deliver this support across the South West, it is working with a number of partner organisations, who bring their own skills and

the changes happening across the agricultural industry, including:

• Devon County Council (accountable body)

• Business Information Point (lead delivery partner)

• Farming Wildlife and Advisory Group

• Cosmic

• The Diverse Regeneration Company CIC

• Somerset Business Agency CIC

• Creedy Associates

• North Devon +

This programme is being delivered in Dorset, as well as across Cornwall, Devon and Somerset.

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Life on the home front

MEMBERS of Gillingham Local History Society looking to record personal memories of the Second World War are holding three events in the town.

The group wants to capture the stories of men, women and children to shine a light on life on the home front and at war and create a permanent record for Gillingham Museum’s collection.

The group is partnering with three venues, which will each host a social gathering where local people can share their own memories and stories handed down to them.

The meetings are at the Eden Café, in the Vicarage Schoolroom, on Wednesday, June 14; the Seniors’ Club, held at the Royal British Legion Club, on Tuesday, June 27; and the Slade Centre on Thursday, July 6, all starting at 2pm.

A selection of Second World War artefacts from the museum’s collection will be on show, to bring back memories and start conversations.

Volunteers from the history group will be on hand to help draw out stories, which they will record and may want to pursue later.

The group particularly wants to hear about the lives of women managing rationing and the absence of their menfolk, and children, to help build a fuller picture of Gillingham at war.

Anyone unable to attend a gathering can participate by getting in touch with the organiser, Barbara Hurst, on 01747 825646 or at barbara@pbhurst.com

Model customer

NORTH Dorset Railway has launched a production model of its signal box at Shillingstone Station.

Father and son Brian and Joe Rose, two long-term volunteers at North Dorset Railway at Shillingstone Station, have over the last year developed a new model first in ‘00’ gauge with Shillingstone’s iconic signal box. A first production run of 20 ‘00’ gauge models are packed and ready to go!

With their new company, Rose & Rose Models, they have already developed additions to the North Dorset Railway Series, including other buildings from the station: porter’s lodge, permanent way hut, post and packing hut, and even the greenhouse. All will be available soon as production models.

You can buy the signal box (and other railway models) online at www.shillingstonestationonline.co.uk, or call in at the station shop at Shillingstone Station (DT11 0SA).

Left to right: Peter Domone (shop manager at NDR Station shop), Joe Rose, Rory Weaver, the first purchaser of the Shillingtone signal box, and Brian Rose

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Fern Brook Lodge celebrates as Care South is rated one of the Top Care Home Groups in the UK

Care South, the not-for-profit charity and leading provider of residential and home care across the south of England, has been rated as a Top 20 Care Home Group in the UK for the third year running in the 2023 Care Home Awards, giving residents and staff at Fern Brook Lodge plenty to celebrate.

The award, based on reviews from residents and their friends and families, has been held by Care South for three consecutive years, thanks to the high-quality care provided by its teams.

Simon Bird, Chief Executive, Care South, said: “We are delighted to have received the Top 20 Award for the third year running based on reviews from residents, their families and friends. I would like to thank everyone who has taken time to leave a review which is such a good endorsement of consistent consumer satisfaction. Your reviews mean so much to our wonderful team.

“It goes without saying that we would not have received the award without our fantastic frontline care staff in all our care homes who always go above and beyond to provide the very best for those in our care. We really appreciate all our staff and the great lengths they go to make our residents’ experiences in later life the best they can be.”

Fern Brook Lodge offers residential, respite and dementia care in a safe, home-from-home environment. With 75 welcoming bedrooms, it also 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.

Whether you’re looking for a short stay, a change of scenery to give you and your family members a break, or a new home, Fern Brook Lodge offers it all.

For further information about Fern Brook Lodge call 01202 712410 or visit www.care-south.co.uk

The beautiful game

Footballer David Stocks put pen to paper to record memories of his time on the pitch

DAVID Stocks played professional football in a bygone era – one before agents, multi-million-pound contracts and global TV deals were prevalent.

In The Shadows tells the story of his life, from his early days as a soughtafter youngster for London schoolboys, to his debut for Charlton Athletic against Liverpool, where he pitted his abilities against the likes of Roger Hunt and Ian Callaghan.

After a season at Gillingham, he went on to star for Bournemouth & Boscombe Athletic – later to become AFC Bournemouth, as we know them today – where he experienced both relegation and promotion while captaining the Cherries for a number of years.

Upon finishing his career at Torquay United, he returned to Dorset, where he became a fixture on the local non-league circuit for the likes of Wimborne Town and Parley, all the while forging a successful second career in financial services.

David’s story is an exciting recollection of time spent playing with and alongside the game’s greats while not quite managing to reach their level, and is essential reading for those who fondly recall football as it was in the 1960s and 70s.

The book is edited by Steve Wright, who said: “Having lived next door to David for a number of years, it was a great privilege to be able to assist him commit the story of his life to the page.

“I hope anyone who buys this book will enjoy reading it as much as I did helping him to put it together.”

In The Shadows, published by Troubador, is available to preorder from Waterstones, WH Smith and Troubador’s website, priced at £12.99, for release on June 28, 2023.

If you would like to get hold of a copy sooner, follow and direct message Steve Wright on his Twitter account, @stevewright22 for more details.

All profits from sale of the book will be donated to Alzheimer’s UK.

Win Family Circus Tickets

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Back to nature

HOOKE Farm, near Beaminster (DT8 3NZ), will be hosting a rewilding weekend as part of the National Garden Scheme, June 17-18.

Home to environmentalist Julia Hailes MBE and her husband Jamie Macdonald, the farm has been transformed into a wildlife haven with bird boxes, bat caves and bee-friendly wildflower meadows. The landscaping project includes a series of ponds in a wetland area, orchard trees and woodland planting all interlinked with mown paths. There are standing stones, a stilted henhouse, a giant throne, and driftwood stags.

Over the course of the weekend visitors can enjoy stalls, talks and tours from conservation groups including the Dorset Wildlife Trust, Bumblebee Conservation Trust, the Great Big Dorset Hedge, Dorset Mammal Group and the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust.

Locally sourced lunch, cream teas, ice-creams and refreshments will be available.

There will be a moth and bat tour on the evening of Saturday, June 17, from 9pm, with food and talks.

Tickets for the bat and moth tour, including food and half-price tickets to the wilding weekend, are £20 per head. See www.juliahailes.com for further details.

The farm will be open from 10.30am to 5.30pm. Tickets cost £8 for adults and £4 for children. All ticket proceeds are donated to the charities nominated by the National Garden Scheme.

Any further profits are donated to Operation Future Hope, for their work wilding schools and running courses for school children.

Call 07940 715327 to check times or cancellations.

Q: What was the name of the circus impresario known as “The Greatest Showman”?

A) P.T. Barnum

B) P.C. Farnham

C) P.G. Rated

Complete care solutions

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Booking respite care at one of our care homes offers numerous benefits to both caregivers and their loved ones. It allows caregivers to take a break and focus on their own health and wellbeing. Respite care can also benefit the person receiving care in many ways. Not only from enjoying the comprehensive range of engaging, person centred activities and social events we offer, we also offer likeminded company to those who may be suffering from feelings of isolation and loneliness. Our experienced carers and catering team are dedicated in providing excellent care and delicious meals.

By booking respite care at one of our care homes, caregivers can rest assured that their loved one is in the safest of hands and receiving high-quality care, while they take the time they need to recharge.

Designed to provide a warm and welcoming environment, our homes are sensitively restored and tastefully converted former country residences. They have been carefully adapted to make them comfortable, luxurious, and safe. Elegant ensuite bedrooms, beautiful walled gardens, relaxing spaces, engaging activities, delicious food, and most importantly real loving care in a real home from home environment.

Dorset buttons

by Marilyn Willoughby

IF, like me, you always thought that a button was just a button, then Anna McDowell’s informative talk about the cottage industry that is Dorset buttons will change your mind.

Currently the chair of the Gold Hill Museum, where many Dorset buttons are on display, Anna explained to FILGroup members and friends how the industry originated in Shaftesbury in the 1620s, becoming a major feature throughout east Dorset producing traditional thread buttons for both practical and decorative wear and creating employment for many families for 200 years.

With the invention of the button machine in the 1830s and the popularity of pearl buttons, the industry began to decline, reviving briefly until the First World War, when the industry died out completely.

Now the traditional sheep’s horn, thread and fabric buttons are not only becoming more collectable, but are also being used in big costume dramas – they feature in Carey Mulligan’s wardrobe in the recent big screen adaptation of Far from the Madding Crowd, for example.

To complete her talk, Anna showed us some of her own artistic work demonstrating the contemporary use of Dorset Buttons. Many thanks Anna for a most interesting afternoon.

FILGroup meets on the second Thursday of the month in Fovant village hall starting at 2.30pm for tea or coffee and a friendly natter. Upcoming events will include a fun art workshop, a return visit from the Cake Forge and a Christmas party. Email filgroup15@gmail.com

Twin towns

RESIDENTS of Sherborne’s twin town Granville, Normandy, enjoyed a swap – or jumelage – with Sherborne members recently.

The visitors stayed in the homes of local Sherbornians and took day trips around the area.

The Granvillaise arrived on Monday afternoon and witnessed the mayor making ceremony, courtesy of the outgoing Mayor Juliette Pentolfe and new Mayor Margaret Crossman.

During their stay, they enjoyed a guided visit round Sherborne Abbey and had the option to visit nearby gardens such as Stourhead and Minterne. A 40th anniversary celebration dinner was held at The Grange at Oborne, where the visitors were entertained by stars of Milborne Port Opera, Jessie Stones and pianist Fiona.

A visit to the City of Wells provided the opportunity for a guided tour in French or English around the gorgeous cathedral and wonderful house and gardens at the Bishop’s Palace. And what visit to Sherborne would be complete without fish and chips, courtesy of Mo and his team at the Cross Keys.

Purple and white cz silver drop earrings £117

Ten secrets of the Tarrant Valley

Local author reveals interesting and little-known facts about our churches

A RECENTLY published Dorset book relates some fascinating, little-known facts about seven churches in the lovely Tarrant Valley, just outside Blandford.

The author, Brian Ash, calls them Ten Secrets of the Tarrant Valley, and they could form the basis for interesting walks and day trips for anyone living locally.

Brian’s ten teasers to get you thinking are listed below – if you want more detail you’ll need to purchase his book, Churches of the Tarrant Valley and other stories, which is available on Amazon now!

1St Mary’s church in Tarrant Crawford is home to Medieval wall paintings that are 650 years old.

2Three nuns volunteered to be entombed for life in a Tarrant Valley church… These three aristocratic ladies became known as anchoresses.

3Have you heard of an Easter Sepulchre? There’s one in Tarrant Hinton, one of very few that survived the reformation.

4

A beautiful, miniature copy of one of the world’s most important artworks is hidden in the corner of a Tarrant church. It’s a quarter-sized copy of The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb. The original is the altarpiece at St Bavo’s Cathedral in Ghent. It was painted in 1432 by the brothers Jan and Hubert Van Eyck.

5A church in Tarrant Rushton, near the site of the leper hospital of St Leonards (now long demolished) features a window built to allow lepers to view church services.

6Have you heard of the young girl murdered for her Christian faith at 15 years old? St Margaret of Antioch was murdered in about 304CE because she would not marry the Roman Provost and recant her Christian faith. Her story is depicted on the 650-year-old wall paintings in St Mary’s, Tarrant Crawford.

7Archbishop Poore, who built Salisbury Cathedral, was born and died in Tarrant Crawford and is buried in the Valley.

8Queen Joan, wife of Alexander II of Scotland and daughter of King John of England, is buried in a Tarrant church.

9Have you heard the legend of the ‘three live and three dead men’? Their story is depicted in the medieval wall paintings in Tarrant Crawford.

10St Mary’s church at Tarrant Rushton is home to two medieval hi-fi acoustic pots. They were supposed to amplify the voice of the celebrant so the congregation could hear them better.

Tarrant Crawford church, home to medieval wall paintings

Money in the bank

Sherborne residents object to provision for tourists over residents as plans are revised for NatWest branch

A FORMER bank building in Sherborne could soon house a shop and tourist accommodation.

A planning application for 50 Cheap Street – formerly NatWest bank – has been submitted to Dorset Council proposing a number of changes to the interior of the building.

It would see four spaces ‘for tourism use’ on the first and second floors, with the layout of the ground floor altered to create a retail premises.

Part of the application – for the retail space and to alter the doorway and frontage – have previously been approved.

The fresh proposals would see four units created for use by tourists on the first and second floors.

The application said work had already begun on the changes.

“Work is already being carried out to

implement the alterations granted,” it said.

“Reconfiguration of the first floor to create the tourist accommodation principally involves the removal of modern stud partitions and the suspended ceiling,” it adds.

“The original fireplace has been exposed and will become part of bedroom two.

“A new staircase will be introduced to serve the proposed accommodation on the second floor.

“The second floor has a new roof and all internal historic interest of the original roof structure has been lost.

“To create a viable use for the building, it is proposed to also convert the roof space to one suite of tourist accommodation comprising bedroom, ensuite bathroom and living room.”

The plan has received some opposition from residents, particularly concerning a proposed roof terrace on the site.

One resident wrote in his objection: “The proposal for a roof terrace… would allow direct views into the office space of 1 Abbey Road and overlook adjoining roof terraces enjoyed by neighbours.”

Another wrote: “I really don’t know why it was decided to convert the property into holiday lets rather than flats, where longterm residents live.

“I really don’t understand the logic here.”

For full details, and to comment on the application, visit www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk and search for reference P/FUL/2022/06117.

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Boost For Residents As Local Broadband Provider Reduces Full Fibre Broadband Costs

Wessex Internet, the local provider of ultrafast full fibre connectivity has updated its range of residential broadband packages to offer faster download speeds and enhanced services at new lower price points. This comes against a background of national providers, such as BT and Sky, introducing high mid-contract prices in April. Uswitch reported that the BT 2023 mid-contract price rise of almost 15% was the largest ever seen for broadband in the UK*.

Available to both new and existing residential customers, Wessex Internet’s refreshed full fibre broadband services includes two new packages:

• Full Fibre 250 – its lowest priced unlimited broadband package at £39.50 per month, providing customers with 250Mbps download speeds and 125Mbps upload speeds.

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Furthermore, Wessex Internet has reduced the price of its premium Full Fibre 900 package to £79 per month saving customers £60 a year, while increasing their upload speeds to 450Mbps.

The company’s introductory package, Full Fibre Lite, remains at its current monthly cost of £29 per month. Chief Commercial Officer, Jez Allman, said: “We know the local communities we serve are concerned about the cost of living. Therefore, we decided the buck the industry trend of raising prices for existing customers by introducing these new packages available. This demonstrates our commitment to offering more value, quality and peace of mind.”

*https://www.uswitch.com/broadband/guides/bt-announce-price-hikes-what-can-consumers-do/

Pride for everyone

Dorset Youth Pride aims to entertain and educate as it celebrates a return to the Shire Hall Museum

THE LGBT+ community will be celebrated at an event in Dorchester next month.

Dorset Youth Pride returns to the Shire Hall Museum on Saturday, June 10, with a range of activities on offer to all members of the LGBT+ community and allies.

Now in its second year, Dorset Youth Pride is free and inclusive, with visitors getting the chance to take over Vinyl Van’s decks for ‘Pride Pick & Mix’.

Nina Corey, director at the museum, said: “We’re so excited to be hosting Dorset Youth Pride at Shire Hall Museum again.

“As a social justice museum, we’re proud to support and champion all members of the LGBT+ community.

“We believe that Pride should be for everyone, so we’re delighted to be hosting this inclusive celebration for people of all ages.”

She said a range of informative displays and talks, craft activities and music will be on offer.

The museum has partnered with

organisations across the county to deliver the event, including Space Youth Project, Pop’n’Olly, Dorset Youth Voice, Weymouth Gap Group, This is Me and Dorset Police.

The Young Historians Group from the Keep Military Museum will showcase their display, ‘Queer Was Always Here’, exploring LGBT+ figures throughout history.

And in the afternoon, Vinyl Van will be taking over the historic courtroom at Shire Hall Museum with Pride Pick & Mix.

Visitors to Dorset Youth Pride can take over the Vinyl Van decks and play some of their favourite music and Pride anthems.

Dorset Youth Pride has been made possible thanks to support from RiskSTOP Group, who are sponsoring the event for the second year.

Danny Lillington, managing director at RiskSTOP Group, said: “Dorset Youth Pride is again sponsored by the RiskSTOP Group at Shire Hall Museum. It is a wonderful initiative that deserves our

REDUCE

support.

“It provides a valuable opportunity for LGBTQ+ youth to connect with each other, share their experiences, and feel proud of who they are.

“Moreover, by holding the event at a museum, it also offers a chance for participants to learn about the history of LGBTQ+ rights and activism.

“Overall, Dorset Youth Pride is an important step towards building a more accepting and inclusive society, and we should all applaud and support the efforts of the Staff at Shire Hall Museum for organising it.”

Dorset Youth Pride runs on Saturday, June 10, from 10am to 4pm. For more information, visit shirehalldorset.org

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Our loose Canon

On the importance of freedom of speech at our universities…

by Canon Eric Woods UNIVERSITIES

have played a significant part in my life, and have claimed a large slice of it. Three years at Oxford, reading history. Later, three years at Cambridge, reading theology. Later still, three years at Bristol as a university chaplain. And then ten years returning to Bristol one morning a week, to teach ethics to third-year undergraduates whilst running a large parish near Swindon.

18-year-olds are impressionable, so Oxford was, and remains, my first love. I revelled in the opportunity to hone my skills against some of the finest minds in the history faculty. I relished being able to go to the Oxford Union to listen to those of whose opinions I (as an arrogant teenager) thoroughly disapproved – and then think about them. Intellectual cut and thrust were what it was all about. In every subject, universities exist to seek and express truth – whatever that costs and whoever that upsets. Without that freedom, there is no point in universities at all.

Sadly, many of today’s students don’t agree. Take the recent visit of Professor Kathleen Stock to the Oxford Union. Hundreds of students, from the lofty maturity of their teenage years, thought she would probably say something about transgendering with which they would disagree. Did they go to the Union to listen in order to be able to challenge her views from the basis of having heard them?

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Not a bit of it. They demanded that she be “cancelled”. Some threatened to silence her violently. “Free speech” is fast becoming an outdated concept. One newspaper has condemned this “North Korean mindset”, and it’s not far wrong. Universities should be the last places to practice intellectual totalitarianism.

Perhaps you think I am exaggerating the problem. But even the present government, lily-livered about so many things, is sufficiently concerned to have appointed a “free speech tsar”. Cambridge professor of philosophy Arif Ahmed is to champion freedom of expression in universities and colleges and investigate any infringements of the duties placed on these institutions to promote freedom of speech. He will oversee a new regime that could impose fines on higher education providers and student unions if they prevent speakers appearing without good reason. Under the new Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act he will also be able to intervene if universities try to impose “ideological” anti-bias training on either staff or students.

Professor Ahmed was raised a Muslim but is now a professed atheist. He does not believe that we should have to respect beliefs we do not share, but is passionate that we must tolerate them. He insists that students at the start of their courses “consent to the risk of exposure to ideas that are legally expressed in ways that they find shocking, disturbing or offensive; and that they understand that by continuing with the course they are implicitly renewing this consent.” I would disagree with him about many things, but his is the right appointment at the right time. It is just a tragedy that it is necessary.

Photo by eskay lim on Unsplash

If music be the food of love…

Enjoy Shakespeare’s finest rom com in a beautiful outdoor setting

FESTIVAL Players International will be performing Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night on Saturday, June 24, 7pm at the Open Air Theatre at Shaftesbury Abbey Museum.

This great romantic comedy has all the ingredients for another engaging Shakespeare performance from.

In a colourful, costumed staging, brought to you by Festival Players International, the UK’s prime all-male touring company, this tale of the pursuit of love hampered by disguise, mistaken identity, and a great deal of roisterous and hilarious trickery, is sure to entertain.

Gates open for picnics 6pm with the performance at 7pm. Please bring a

Fossils & dragons

SHERBORNE Literary Society will be hosting a talk by Wolfgang Grulke about his latest book, which reimagines the story of Dorset’s most famous fossil hunter, Mary Anning, and includes images generated by artificial intelligence.

Tickets for the talk, which takes place at Digby Memorial Church Hall (DT9 3NL) on Wednesday, June 14, at 7pm, are available online at www. sherborneliterarysociety.com and from Winstone’s Bookshop.

low-backed chair or rug. Tickets cost £17 for adults (FoSA £15), £10 for children under 16, and are available from the Abbey shop. For more information please visit www.shaftesburyabbey.org.uk, email office@shaftesburyabbey.org.uk or call 01747 852910.

FASHIONS & LINGERIE

Festival Players International, the UK’s foremost all-male touring company, will be performing Twelfth Night in the grounds of Shaftesbury Abbey

Hiking for honey

Lucy Briggs hiked 106km around the Isle of Wight and raised over £1,500 for the North Dorset Beekeepers’ honey bee centre

FOR most folk, a trip to the Isle of Wight might involve a day on the beach, an ice cream or two and maybe some fish and chips… But that’s not what got Lucy Briggs on the ferry.

The owner of Short, Bark ‘n’ Sides dog grooming and the daughter of one of North Dorset’s most enthusiastic beekeepers, Lucy had something altogether different in mind – the Isle of Wight Ultra Challenge – and she was doing it for the honey bees!

The Challenge is a gruelling 106km hike around the island. There’s magnificent scenery along the way, and Lucy says, “That’s one of the things that raised my spirits when the going was tough… and the most beautiful sunrise at 4am after the longest of nights.”

Lucy’s done other challenges in the past, but this was the most demanding by far. This time,

Beekeepers (www.northdorsetbeekeepers.org.uk), who plan to build a honey bee centre near Blandford Forum. To date, her total is a magnificent £1,519.

Lucy says she felt utterly euphoric as she crossed the finish line after a total of 30 hours and 48 minutes, and then utterly wrecked a short while later! But it was worth it to help spread the word about the importance of bees in our world.

You can help too. If you’d like to add to Lucy’s total, there’s still time. Go to her JustGiving page www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ lucy-briggs8 and leave whatever you can. Lucy and all the beekeepers thank you for your support – and so do the bees!

Boats, by the yard

HEAD to Shaftesbury Arts

Centre from June 24 to July 8 to indulge a passion for boats captured in paintings by Kim Pragnell and his partner Hilary Ball. Their collection features boats, both working and recreational, from trawlers to marooned cargo vessels, Cornish trawlers, fishing nets and harbour scenes in a variety of settings and media.

Shaftesbury Wines are generously supporting the preview on Wednesday, June 24, from 5pm-7pm with a selection of their superb house wines.

Shaftesbury Arts Centre, Bell Street, Shaftesbury, from 10am to 4pm every day. Call 01258 446441.

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Choral delight

THE Aurin Girls’ Choir from the Kodály Music School, Kecskemét, in Hungary, will be back in Bruton for the first concert in their 2023 tour. One of the top youth choirs in the world today, under its energetic conductor László Durányik it has won many international accolades.

The concert is at St Mary’s Church, Bruton on Monday, June 26, at 7.30pm. Tickets are £10 in advance, £12 on the door, from Bruton Convenience Store, by phone 01749 813161 or online at www.brutonchoralsociety.org.uk.

Guitar maestro

Enjoy a night of incredible music in aid of the roof fund for St Martin’s church, West Coker

INTERNATIONAL American guitarist, Valérie Hartzell, will entertain audiences with music from Spain and Latin America along with hits by The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Metallica and her own compositions, in a concert in aid of the St Martin’s church roof fund.

Valérie began playing guitar at the age of three. She won several international competitions before performing and broadcasting in Europe, the USA and Canada, most recently for BBC Radio 3 on ‘In Tune’ and at Latitude Festival, where

she was dubbed ‘enrapturing’! She teaches at Leweston School. The concert, at the church, is at 7.30pm on June 17. Doors will open at 7pm, when audience members can socialise with a beverage (donations welcome). Tickets, sold at the door, are £10 for adults and £5 for children 18 and under. All proceeds will go towards the roof of the church.

For more information, please contact either Valérie at valeriehartzell@gmail.com or Barbs at barbsmack@me.com, or call 07958 992140/01935 864574.

Education

School’s sporting stars in spotlight

EX-STUDENT Marlo Boyd was guest speaker at Gillingham School’s annual sports awards evening.

Marlo was an accomplished school athlete, playing for all the teams she could, but was perhaps best known as a competitive Wiltshire tennis player.

She left school in 2012 and, inspired by that year’s Olympics in London, went on to be a Henley level rower.

After major back surgery she started to play rugby at university and went on to play in the Premiership with Bristol Bears.

Her experiences in a range of sports gave the audience an insight into ambitions and resilience, and the highs and lows of elite sport.

During the evening, players’ players awards were given in hockey, netball, football, rugby,

handball, cricket and basketball.

Students who had shown dedication and commitment to several sports were also rewarded with coaches’ commitment awards.

Recognition was also given to those students involved in sports leading and coaching within the school, primary feeder schools and the local community.

After the interval the evening moved onto individual awards which included recognition of pupils involved in high level rugby.

The evening ended with the presentation of the coveted Sports Personalities of the Year Awards to Lower and Upper school students.

Award winners: Upper School Sports Personalities: Kenton Ward and Thea Primrose; Lower School Sports

Personalities: Monty Luck and Tabby Poole; Burton Cup: Lyra Medlock; Ford Cup: Alicia Foot and Hester Readman; Digby Cup: Owain Newing; Sports Challenge Award: Oli Morland; Unsung Hero: Kai Marks; Maidment Cup: Connor Robinson; Duke of Edinburgh Award: Ifor Jones; Dancer of the Year: Anna Ovenden; Swimmers of the Year: Freddie

George and Katie Knight; Cross-Country Runner of the Year: Danny Dacombe; Archer of the Year: Samuel Fudge; Tennis player of the Year: Ruen Collins; Pippen Shield: Beth Walford; Pippen Cup: Gracie Williams; Bultitude Cup: Bella Hughes; Barton-Smith Cup: Imogen Mogridge; Coach of the Year: Oscar Lewis; Young Sports Leader: Poppy Marshall.

Dragon boat racers at country fair

YOUNGSTERS at Leweston School raised hundreds of pounds for a good cause in dragon boat races at Sherborne Castle Country Fair.

The school in Sherborne entered three teams, with 17 members in each team –Leweston Blue (Year 9), Leweston Red (Years 7 to 10) and Leweston Sixth Form.

All three teams qualified for the youth final and the Sixth Form team also qualified for the senior final – with the second fastest time of the day.

In the youth final, Leweston had a clean sweep with Leweston Sixth Form taking gold, Leweston Blue silver and Leweston Red just pipping the Sea Cadets to take bronze.

The senior final was a close race between the first three boats, with Leweston Sixth Form recording their fastest time of the day to finish 3rd with less than a second between the teams.

A school spokesperson said:

“Well done to everyone who worked hard in the races and had a great day out at the fair with friends and family.

“Leweston would like to thank all the officials and

organisers of the event who put on a great day.”

Leweston aimed to raise £1,000 for Sherborne Food Bank but has beaten that target and is now seeking to raise £1,500.

The food bank feeds at least 50 families a week, which costs £1,000.

Anyone who would like to give money should visit the teams’ JustGiving page.

Guest speaker Marlo Boyd with Gillingham School’s sports Personality award-winners

Leweston School had three teams in the races at Sherborne Castle Country Fair

The Great Outdoors

SUNNYHILL CAMPSITE is a

Hidden rural gem of a campsite set in idyllic farm & woodland landscape. King Alfred’s Tower on the horizon, chickens, guinea fowl, turkeys, ducks and wild birds, chatter during the daylight & a selection of farm animals that guests often get to meet are also around. Historically Sunnyhill offered a place to rest your head, before finishing your drive on the A303 in the 60s and 70s. In the mid 80s Mobile homes were added and a shower block, but sadly the camping business was in free fall a that time people had discovered cheap package deals abroad, & then came the internet, something the senior members of the Hookins clan didn’t use. This meant the mobile homes gained permanent residents and there are still weekly enquiries from people wanting to live here, no wonder some of the people living here now have been here for decades.

The Great Outdoors

Mr William Hookins came to Sunnyhill farm 83 years ago and his family were the people who began the campsite as part of their farm. Over the years different buildings have been converted and sold with pockets of land. However the campsite remains in the Hookins family and the current Hookins generation Alex (Sandy) and Megan live at the campsite in mobile homes, with Sandys partner Stuart & 3 other households as an established peaceful community.

Sunnyhill Campsite Riding Gate is like no other campsite you will ever visit, Sandy and Megan have opened on TENs licensing under canvas for various musical events since 2020, and now in 2023 have converted a trailer to a pop up bar for the busier weekends, named the JOLLY FARMER after a racehorse that Hookins senior once shared ownership of in a syndicate with

other farmers, she is proving very popular and the campsite is in the process of applying for a premises license with the hope of offering a year round venue for open mic nights once a week and weekend drinks for the locals. Megan is a personal license holder so it combines the generations into a positive future for Sunnyhill and although Bill Hookins only visits these days he is very proud of the vision that Megan and Sandy have for the place.

Sunnyhill doesn’t conform to the usual campsite format but that is what makes her such a marmite, you either love her or hate her, most people love her with mainly positive reviews, and feedback the hope is hat she offers a local hub for walkers, visitors and musicians alike. Things here are hand made, hand painted and often upcycled. The a yurt & hut (with log fuelled hot tub by the hut) and peak season bell tents have proven very popular bringing the campsite into the 21st century as a peaceful get away. The fact that the small residential community are so welcoming and often greet you if Sandy and Megan are busy makes for a special atmosphere here year round, and with only 4 grass and 4 hard standing pitches Sunnyhill always feels intimate and friendly. The last 3 years the hay field adjacent to the campsite, a 6+ acre field has been opened under the 28 days pop up campsite bracket. She offers a more wild camping experience with a few compost toilets, no EHU and a couple of outdoor showers, the most amazing sunsets and the location for the SUNNYHILL WEEKENDER (tickets available from wegottickets.com).

This mini festival AUGUST BANK HOLIDAY with over 20 acts and only 200 MAX tickets is mainly local musicians although headlining on the Friday are 3 DAFT MONKEYS and on sat DRIVEN SERIOUS from further afield to stir up the mix….and with tickets starting from £40 inclusive of camping in the hay field its unbeatable value designed to get locals to attend and enjoy the special place that is SUNNYHILL (glamping or main site at additional fee) there is a need for volunteers and some availability for entertainers other than musicians also a pop up vegi caterer space too for a chill out or similar area. This special venue is hoping to get their profits from the Jolly farmer and the marquee bar for the WEEKENDER to keep the prices of this new event down while the whole country is struggling financially and to hopefully gain a new annual event for the BLACKMORE VALE area and BEYOND to enjoy.

Blandford’s Great Big Green Week

Practical ways to tackle the climate emergency locally and nationally were highlighted at the “Green Fair at the Arches” beside the river Stour in Blandford on Sunday June 11th

Exhibitors and stallholders taking part at the fair beside the former railway arches on Langton Meadows included nature and wildlife charities, refilling businesses, and producers of vegetarian and vegan food, eco-friendly products, cosmetics and gifts.

Representatives of other organisations and local government explained their efforts to meet the climate emergency challenge and ways to become involved, and there were activities for children focussing on the impact of what we do on the environment. The fair was part of the national Great Big Green Week from June 10 to 18, with other events organised by Climate Action Now 2023, an initiative developed by Blandford Environmental Trust and Blandford Museum Environmental Group in partnership with other environmental charities in Blandford.

All events have been free of charge, and there have been talks on ‘Healthy Homes’ and ‘Healthy Seas’, and tonight, June 14th, at the Blandford Parish Centre at 7.30pm, Rebecca Saville will be speaking on ‘Economic Growth and Climate Change’, and tomorrow Clean Up Blandford/War on Waste will be hosting one of their litterpicks, meeting at 10am by the Mortain (blue) bridge

on the Marsh & Ham behind Morrisons.

For details see www.blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk

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Stockists of new Alko, Countax, Mountfield, Stiga and Stihl. Servicing, repairs, and parts for all major brands.

See our range of garden machinery including lawn mowers, chainsaws, hedgecutters and more on our website.

www.gillinghamgardenmachinery.co.uk

01747 859564

Unit 1, Brickyard Lane, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4JL

Blandford’s Hidden Gardens on Sunday June 25th provides an opportunity not only to visit over twenty private gardens which will be open to the public, but also to explore parts of the unique Georgian town not often seen by visitors.

Proceeds from ticket sales go to local charities chosen by the organisers, the Blandford Environmental Trust, and those opening their gardens can also raise funds for a charity or organization of their choice by offering refreshments or plants for sale.

The event, sponsored by Colten Care, runs from 11am to 5pm and the gardens are listed on the tickets allowing entry to them all, which will be on sale from Blandford Information Centre and Blandford Town Museum from June 12th onwards. Since the event was first held in 2008, Blandford’s Hidden Gardens has raised over £25,000 for charitable causes.

To find out more see their Facebook page @Blandford Environmental Trust.

BLANDFORD’S HIDDEN GARDENS

SUNDAY 25th JUNE 2023

11 am - 5pm

£5 for all gardens

Tickets available two weeks before the event from the

A FRIENDLY FAMILY RUN BUSINESS FOR

The Great Outdoors

The Crown Inn, just off the A30 at East Stour, reopened on 1st April following a refurbishment. The new management team of Jeremy Squibb, Megan McCann & Rob Marsh, have been delighted to welcome customers new and old to this historic village pub.

Their offer is a straightforward one; simple home cooked pub food, quality local and global draught & bottled beers, wines and spirits, honestly priced, served by nice people in a comfortable and relaxing environment. With real ale from £3.50 a pint and main courses from £10.95, a visit to The Crown Inn is an everyday treat, though they’d be pleased to see you for your special occasions too.

The Sunday Carvery served from 12-3pm is already proving popular. There’s a choice of beef or turkey, or both, along with a selection of home cooked vegetables to help yourself to. At £9.95 for a smaller appetite plate, or £14.95 for the regular plate, you’ll not go home hungry.

Saturday morning means Bottomless Brunch. A buffet style English breakfast, with unlimited tea, coffee and selected cold drinks at £13.95, or with a range of unlimited beer, cider, prosecco or cocktail jugs at £21.95, from 10 am to 12 midday.

They’d love you to bring the whole family along, the pub is dog friendly, and there’s plenty for kids to do too.

The plenty of fun regular and one-off events run at the pub. Follow The Crown Inn East Stour on social media, to know what’s happening.

The Crown Inn, Back Street, East Stour, Gillingham, SP8 5JS 01747 838866

www.thecrowninneaststour.com

Coastal Wildlife Code

A NEW Coastal Wildlife Code has been unveiled - giving visitors to the UK coast advice and guidance on how to do so responsibly. More and more people are choosing to staycation, making the most of UK coastlines, like that in Dorset and Somerset. In May, the government launched England’s first-ever national Marine and Coastal Wildlife Code.

Home to around 95% of Europe’s grey seal population and around 25% of Europe’s breeding seabirds, the British coastline supports many iconic species and habitats.

However, as visitors to coastlines rise, people are being reminded to make sure precious marine wildlife remains as undisturbed as possible. To help, the new code has developed in collaboration with organisations including Whale and Dolphin Conservation, the RSPB, Shark Trust and Cornwall Seal Group Research Trust. It includes advice for those walking along the coast or taking part in water-based activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding or jet skiing. It offers specific guidance around animals such as seabirds, seals, dolphins, sharks and turtles, including information on breeding seasons and how species might react to disturbance.

Marine minister, Lord Benyon, said: “Ensuring everyone has access to nature is a priority for this government – but is it absolutely vital that people enjoy nature responsibly.

“The Marine and Coastal Wildlife Code will enable everyone to make the most of our treasured outdoor places while protecting the very species and habitats that make our coastline so special. “The government’s Environment Improvement Plan pledged everyone should live within 15 minutes’ walk of a green or blue space, and the Marine and Coastal Wildlife Code will help ensure they can do so in a way that does not harm the environment.”

The Code also gives guidance on how to report injured, distressed or dead animals, including through the Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme (CSIP).

Sue Sayer, from Cornwall Seal Group Research Trust, said: “Seals need space to rest, digest, moult and pup. Yet findings from the Seal Research Trust revealed seals are routinely or frequently disturbed by human activity, causing them to use up vital energy and meaning some seals are sadly unable to survive.

“Our GIVE SEALS SPACE campaign is already raising awareness and we are delighted to welcome the launch of the Marine and

Coastal Wildlife Code which will provide a single code of best practice to help everyone understand what they can do to help protect valuable marine wildlife as we all enjoy our staggering coastal habitat.”

And Kirsten Carter, marine principal policy officer at the RSPB, added: “As well as being fantastic places to visit and have fun, our coastline and beaches are home to amazing marine wildlife and globally important seabird populations.

“Sadly, many species are under huge pressure, including from the impacts of disturbance as visitor numbers increase and disease such as bird flu.

“Everyone has a part to play in protecting nature, and England’s first Marine and Coastal Wildlife Code shows how we can all enjoy our time at the coast while helping to safeguard wildlife at the same time.”

The Marine and Coastal Wildlife Code builds on the existing Countryside Code, which provides helpful advice and guidance for a safe trip to the outdoors.

IN an idyllic spot between Swanage and Studland, Ulwell Holiday Park is the perfect destination for a break. It provides an ideal base from which to catch the bus to Bournemouth, via the scenic Sandbanks Ferry, or into picturesque seaside haven, Swanage.

You could also take a steam train ride to Corfe Castle, making your way back to Ulwell across the Purbeck Hills… Even if you choose not to venture out, there’s plenty to do. The Ulwell Shop is on the doorstep, complete with fresh bakery, local sausages and most essential items, while the Village Inn serves drinks throughout the day, as well as breakfast, lunch and dinner.

All the while, you can be charging your electric vehicle back at the holiday park. So, bring your tent or motorhome, or hire a luxury caravan, where you can sit outside and take in the beautiful Purbeck Hills. Perhaps then is the time to plan that walk to Corfe Castle or Old Harry Rocks to take in the stunning scenery of Studland Bay and Poole Harbour.

For the sporty types, Purbeck Golf Course is nearby, as are the delights of the Jurassic Coast, for the more history-minded. Or, you could take a dip in the heated indoor swimming pool included in the cost of your stay – and even if you’re not staying, you are welcome to book a swim at reception. Ulwell Holiday really is the base for everything the area has to offer

Events

Stunning ballet in a romantic setting

DANCE fans will be able to enjoy Ballet Under the Stars at a unique summer event.

The performance, in the romantic 17th Century walled Dutch garden of privately owned Hatch House in Wiltshire, is set to entertain nearly 2,000 visitors from July 27 to 30.

Matt Brady, director of the Covent Garden Dance Company and founder and creator of the ballet at Hatch House, has grown the production from its naissance as a single night of 160 guests in 2009 to the current production.

This year, Ballet Under the Stars will have a French nuance as guests are transported to 1920s Paris, where the Café Folle will serve Parisian cocktails.

By the time the evening’s performances end, Café Folle will have transformed into a Parisian speakeasy with live performances from singer Faiith Lynch.

“Guests will be invited to immerse themselves into a time where anything and everything

CREATIVE FATHER’S DAY CARD fun for all ages!

Shaftesbury Library Saturday

17 June 11.00am to 12noon. Free drop in activity.

THE MILL SINGERS MALE VOICE CHOIR are presenting a concert of light music at the Blandford Corn Exchange on June 9th

BATCOMBE OPEN GARDENS

17th-18th June 2023

2.00pm-5.30pm

12 beautiful gardens - Tickets

£7.00. In aid of BVM, Batcombe

HMS HERON BAND SUMMER CONCERT

Friday 30th June @ 7.30pm

St James Church, Longburton

Tickets £10 For tickets call Alyson on 07585 338150

STURMINSTER NEWTON HERITAGE TRUST

Cream Teas at the Mill Cream kindly provided by Blackmore Vale Dairy

Saturday 25th June 1-4pm

goes and freedom of expression was not only encouraged but insisted upon,” a spokesperson said.

“Stars future and present will come from the Paris Opera Ballet, the ancestral home of classical ballet, including Valentine Colasante, Myriam Ould-Braham, Pablo Legasa, Guillaume Diop, Luna Peigné and Michaël Lafon.

“Principal dancers The Royal Ballet, Francesca Hayward and Cesar Corrales alongside internationally renowned Ksenia Ovsyanick, Principal with the Staatsballett Berlin join Mara Galeazzi, former Principal with The Royal Ballet.

“Both Ksenia and Mara are well loved and recognised dancers to Hatch regulars. It’s going to be quite a year.”

The programme includes a supper teamed with wines from local wine merchant Gardner & Beedle.

For more details, and to book tickets, log on to www. coventgardendance.com or email the Hatch House team via events@coventgardendance.

com. Tickets are available from £185 per person.

Covent Garden Dance & Hatch House are continuing a decade-long partnership with

Country Life Magazine, Official Media Partner of 2023 and renewing partnerships with Performance Partner Savills and Official Wine Partner Gardner & Beedle.

BEE EXPERIENCE DAYS

From North Dorset Beekeepers. 11th & 25th June 9th & 23rd July Shillingstone Church Centre. 1.30pm to 5.30pm

Spend an afternoon with experienced beekeepers, learning about the Honey Bee and the craft of beekeeping. Open a hive to see the bees at work and take home a souvenir jar of honey to enjoy! To book your place and for more information, visit www.tickettailor.com/events/northdorsetbka

All proceeds to the North Dorset Honey Bee Centre North Dorset Beekeepers Association, Shillingstone, Dorset DT11 0SF Registered Charity No. 1193201

Travelling artist Moish Sokal has just returned from his painting adventure safari trips to the wild life parks of Tanzania and Kenya. His newly inspired watercolours will go on show in the Malthouse Gallery of East Lambrook Manor Gardens on 3rd June – 22nd July

On his last trip to Kenya’s Maasai Mara and Amboseli wild life parks in early 2020, Moish promised he’d be back. The pandemic years came and went, and the long awaited moment arrived were Moish (and his assistant Prue) checked in on the flight to Nairobi. Only when sitting on the crowded shuttle bus to Arusha, the safari capital of northern Tanzania, Sokal felt that he has picked up where he left 3 years ago. It was a successful trip to say the least. Alongside these wildlife paintings Sokal painted upon his return from Africa, there is a significant cache of paintings which Moish painted during last years’ Autumn season. After endless days of going through his vast collection of the old negatives of photos taken during the 30+ years of living in England and travels abroad.

The Malthouse Gallery

East Lambrook Manor Gardens, Silver St

Somerset TA13 5HH

Saturday 3rd June –

Saturday 22nd July

Exhibition of New Watercolours by Moish Sokal

Tuesday – Saturday 10am - 5pm 01935881350 07940506757

www.moishsokal.co.uk

blackmorevale.net

TRENT FETE, DT9 4SW:

Saturday 17 June, 2 till 5pm.

Dog Show, raffles, tombolas, games, teas, BBQ, bar and more.

PILGRIM SINGERS CHARITY

CONCERT 2nd July 6.00 pm

The Dogs Wincanton tickets

£14 U16s free from Wincanton PO or 01963 33695

CRAFT MARKETS

Friday 16th June and Saturday 24th June. 9-4.30/5pm

The Town Hall, Shaftesbury

Supporting Weldmar Hospice and Dorset Somerset Air Ambulance

Free entry, dogs welcome

SATURDAY 1st, SUNDAY

MERE MODEL RAILWAY EXHIBITION at the lecture halls 17th & 18th June 10am - 4pm

LYN’S BINGO AT MARNHULL ROYAL BRITISH LEGION on Monday 12th June. Eye’s down at 7pm.

JUMBLE SALE at Marnhull Royal British Legion Sodom Lane DT10 1HR on June 17th. Doors open at 10.15

ROCK N ROLL IS BACK

Tuesday 13th June 2pm-4pm

Gillingham Vicarage School

Events

MMXXII I

The home of Country House opera in South West England featuring renowned soloists, a full orchestra and a large chorus of emerging young artists

Marquee bar | Picnics | Formal Dining

Jules Massenet

LE ROI DE LAHORE

Sung in French with English surtitles

26, 27 July at 19.00 | Matinée: 29 July at 14.00

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

LE NOZZE

DI FIGARO

Sung in Italian with English surtitles

25, 28, 29 July at 19.00 | Matinée: 27 July at 14.00

Coade Theatre, Bryanston, Blandford Forum

Box Office: dorsetopera.com

07570 366 186

Original design by Augusto Ferri for the first Italian production of Le roi de Lahore in 1878 | Archivio Storico Ricordi

• 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.

• Lower Stour Benefice:

Sunday, June 11: 9.30am Communion at Blandford St Mary; 11am Communion at Langton Long; 11am Family service at Tarrant

Rushton. Sunday, June 18: 9.30am Communion at Spetisbury; 9.30am Family service at Charlton Marshall;

11am Morning Worship at Langton Long; 11am Communion at Tarrant

Keyneston. Coffee and cake –Spetisbury 10-11.30am June 19;

Coffee and cake – Blandford St Mary 10am-11:30am June 22;

Coffee stop – Charlton Marshall Parish Centre 10.30am12.30pm, Tuesday to Friday;

Coffee stop – Charlton Marshall Parish Centre 10.30am12.30pm, Tuesday to Friday.

• St Leonard’s, Semley: Animal thanksgiving service

Sunday, June 11, at 9.30am. Bring your pet to church – or a photo if they’re a touch anti-

social! Refreshments and dog treats to follow.

• St Mary’s Church, Charminster: Quintessentially Wind will be performing in the church (DT2 9RD) on Saturday, July 8, at 7pm. The talented band of instrumentalists, who are well-known and popular in the Hampshire/Surrey area, will be playing light classics, film, show and dance music on a summer’s evening. Tickets priced £10, including drinks and nibbles – children free – are available on 01305 213403.

• St Peter’s Church, Shaftesbury: Breakfast church on the theme St Peter’s goes green – a bit of mess with soil and puppets, on Saturday, June 10, 10-11am. Heavy on breakfast, light on church.

• St Thomas’ Church, Melbury Abbas: Pets’ Service, Sunday, June 11, 11.15am. Guest speaker Hannah Jefferson of Woodfrys Farm. Pet owners invited to take their pets for a blessing. Service is in the church grounds unless it rains. Refreshments afterwards, including dog biscuits!

• Digby Memorial Church Hall: Mothers’ Union meeting in the Griffiths Room on Friday, June 23, 10am-noon. Slides and talk by Sheila Soper on South Sudan.

• Longburton Village Café: In the village church of St James on Tuesday, June 20, 10.30am-

ST MARYS STURMINSTER NEWTON - June

Sunday11th 9:30am holy communion, 6pm evensong.

Sunday 18th 11am holy communion

Sunday 25th 9:30 morning prayer. 6pm evensong

Wednesday every week 10am holy communion new worship pattern starts in July

SHAFTESBURY TEAM BENEFICE

9.30 St Peters Parish Communion, 9.30 St James Parish Communion, 11.15 Compton Abbas Parish Communion, 11.15 Enmore Green Morning Worship, 6pm Motcombe Evening Worship

WEST CAMEL INDEPENDENT METHODISTS MEETING

at All Saints Church, BA22 7QB. Sundays June 11th and 18th 6pm - evening worship. Sunday June 25th 6pm. Visit of Chris Hemborough of “Project Mozambique+” who will speak about his work. Sunday July 2nd. 4pm. United “Sunday @ Four” with tea. — Contact: 01935 850838 or Geoff.mead@yahoo.com

noon. The cafe provides tea, coffee – free refills – and great cakes, just £2.

• HMS Heron RN Volunteer Band: Summer concert at St James’ Church, Longburton, on Friday, June 30, at 7.30pm. Tickets £10 from 01963 210561.

• Chalbury Church: Fourth Sunday of the month, 10.30am Holy Communion.

• Anglican High Mass at Wimborne St Giles: First Sunday of each month at 11am. BH21 5LZ.

• Churches in The Donheads, Charlton, East Knoyle, Semley and Sedgehill: A team of friendly people are available to offer home visits. Contact Revd. Kate at rector@ benofbart.org.uk, 01747 830174.

• 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 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.

• Our Lady’s RC Church, Marnhull: Mass Sunday, 9.30am 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.

• St Benedict’s RC Church, Gillingham: Sunday, 11am.

• Sacred Heart, Tisbury, and All Saints’ Wardour Catholic Parish: Sunday Mass times –Sacred Heart, Tisbury 9am, coffee after Mass; All Saints’ Wardour 11am.

• St John’s (CofE) Church, Enmore Green, Shaftesbury: Service every Sunday at 11.15am; parish communion on the first Monday of the month; prayer services every other Sunday.

• St Mary’s, Sturminster Newton: First and third Sunday, 11am Holy Communion; 6pm BCP Evensong. Second and fourth Sunday, 9.30am Morning Prayer; 6pm BCP Evensong. Fifth Sunday, 11am Benefice Holy Communion. Wednesdays, 10am BCP 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.

• 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.

• Witchampton Church: Third Sunday of the month, 10.30am Holy Communion.

• Sherborne Abbey Choir: The choir has a vacancy for a voluntary bass singer.

Empty home project scoops top award

A PROJECT that saw an empty Blandford home brought back into use has scooped a prestigious national award.

Dorset Council oversaw the renovation of the property, West View, pictured, for use as accommodation by people in need.

And work by the council’s Housing Standards Team has been recognised at the Empty Homes Network conference.

Neglected for 20 years, the Grade II-listed building has been transformed into a home for locals.

With the cost of refurbishment higher than expected due to the age or the property, Dorset Council was able to work with project partners to get the scheme ‘over the line’, providing an innovative blend of grants and loans.

In exchange for the additional funding the owners, a charitable trust, leased the building to the council with nomination rights for the next 10 years.

A spokesperson for the Empty Homes Network said: “Dorset Council and Lendology have developed a seamless relationship that complements each other’s strengths, to provide support and financial assistance through a challenging set of circumstances.

“Resulting in not only a property being brought back into use, the leasing of the property to the local authority has ensured that the property will be occupied and managed to suit local need, reduce the reliance on B&B and temporary accommodation, and remove a blight from a busy marketplace.”

Graham Carr Jones, lead member for housing at the council, said: “The main beneficiaries are of course the people that can now call the property home where they can be settled and thrive.

“We overcame a range of obstacles to make this happen in partnership with Lendology and our shared vision of bringing this property back to life no matter what was key to a successful outcome.”

Emma Lower, CEO of Lendology,

added: “Empty homes are a valuable resource being put to waste at a time when housing is so important.

“We understand the challenges people face in financing and renovating empty homes, and a lot of homeowners are unaware of the lending scheme funded by Dorset Council.

“Our unique approach to lending allows us to solve a range of finance issues in local communities and we love turning empty houses into loved homes.”

North Dorset rapist jailed for 27 years

A MAN has been sentenced to 27 years in prison for the repeated sexual abuse of two girls in North Dorset.

Andrew John Butler, pictured, appeared at Bournemouth Crown Court on Friday (June 2) and was sentenced for seven offences of rape, two further charges of rape of a child under 13 and two counts of sexual activity assault of a child under 13.

The offences occurred between 2010 and 2019 in the North Dorset area and involved two victims, who were subjected to repeated sexual abuse.

Following information received and investigations by detectives, 54-year-old Butler was arrested in February 2021.

Detective Constable Adam Taylor, of Dorset Police, said: “I want to praise the victims in this

case for the courage they have shown in coming forward and supporting our investigation as well as the strength they have shown throughout the court process.

“Andrew Butler subjected these girls to horrific sexual abuse and through their bravery in coming forward, he has now been held accountable for his actions and faces a significant period behind bars.

“I hope this sends a message to all victims of sexual abuse that we will do all we can to investigate offences and ensure offenders are brought to justice, while we will also make sure victims are supported.

“I also want to thank our partners in the Crown Prosecution Service for their assistance in bringing this

case.”

How to report child abuse:

Dorset Police: For nonurgent reports, or to make an enquiry, go to www.dorset. police.uk where you can pass on the details of your concerns using the online enquiry form.

You can also call 101. If you believe a child is in immediate danger dial 999.

Crimestoppers: Call anonymously on 0800 555 111

Local Children’s Social Care: STARS Dorset www. starsdorset.org/childrenand-young-personsservice / 01202 308858

The Shores - Dorset SARC (Sexual Assault Referral Centre) 01202 552 056

BCP Council 01202 093131

Dorset Council (Children’s Advice and Duty Service) 01305 228866

You can also report directly to the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP) www.ceop.police.uk

‘Normal service isn’t an ambition’

IN articles last October in the New Blackmore Vale Dorset Conservative MPs did their best to reassure us that normal service had resumed. Rishi Sunak had just found the reins to this government’s TrussoJohnsonomic unruly shopping trolley. Six months or so later, it feels like normal service has indeed resumed, but it looks and sounds like the same clapped out, wheezing government we’ve endured for years. We’re just meant to be grateful that it’s more predictable.

Camilla Cavendish, who used to work for David Cameron, wrote for the FT last October that “historically, Conservatives have liked to think their role in politics is to clear up the mess of the public finances made by Labour. But the current mess is their own. Brexit is incontrovertibly leaving its mark on our wealth and wellbeing.”

The trade deals with Australia and New Zealand came into

force last week. Farmer and former DEFRA minister George Eustice is still apologising for these terrible lop-sided and

rushed deals. Over my daily dose of Liberal Democratic muesli this morning I heard ex-Australian foreign minister Alexander Downer on the radio talking up the benefits. He said it’s not for those who struck the deals to worry what happens next, it’s for market participants to work it out.

If you’re a Dorset beef or lamb producer, you may be less breezy. You may wonder what your work on high welfare farming has meant all these years. I’m for free markets, but the people who craft trade deals must ensure that the market is fair as well as free.

We need a food strategy for our country. One that improves our health and creates the market to make it work sustainably for everyone. It’s funny that one of the positive things delivered in the last few years was Henry Dimbleby’s food strategy, but the government that commissioned

it has shelved it. It could have set out what we want from trade deals for farming and food before negotiating smart deals – not rushing to take what we could get in a panic.

Resuming normal business is also a reminder of a party too long in power. The news may now be two weeks old, but I’m still hacked off that Simon Hoare’s complacency has surfaced in the form of motoring fines from 2019 while assuming that we don’t mind paying them off, four times.

We don’t just want normal service. We want better. People in neighbouring Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole wanted better and backed Liberal Democrats in strength. North Dorset’s opportunity will come at council elections next May, and a general election. Liberal Democrats will make the case for tackling the right things in the right way. Join in to make a difference.

NHS dentists: Meeting with minister

ON June 29, 2023, polling stations will open from 7am10pm for residents of Sherborne West. More than 2,200 households face an important by-election for a new Dorset councillor, following the resignation last month of the absent Liberal Democrat councillor Matthew Hall, who moved to Devon almost a year ago. Electors were not informed by Matt of his departure, neither were many aware he had even resigned! I am very pleased to be able to support Rebecca Burns, the local Conservative candidate. She has her own business in the town centre and is committed to Sherborne having lived here all her life.

On Wednesday last week, I led a debate in Parliament to raise the issue of the provision of NHS dentistry in the SouthWest. Our region has been experiencing acute difficulties in accessing routine and emergency dental treatment.

Access to dental services continues to be a difficulty in the South-West. This is a particular problem which has

persisted for many years and is a consequence of the Covid-19 backlog; the unpopular 2006 dental contact; and the unfair remuneration system. As a result of these problems, the number of NHS dentists turning to private practice has increased and has meant that many of our local practices are not accepting new patients or even accepting existing patients’ treatment.

Many constituents have rightly been in touch over the last few months to tell me of their difficulties accessing an NHS dentist, and I was glad to be amplify their concerns with neighbouring MPs to the Health Minister, Neil O’Brien. One of the reasons behind such a shortage of dentists is the difficulty in maintaining the workforce in rural areas, such as here in West Dorset. Nationally, there is an uneven distribution of dentistry schools – while there are only currently two in the South-West, six are located

in the North. In my speech, I proposed a new dental school in Dorset to help rectify this issue, and the Minister has agreed to meet me to discuss this.

After months of campaigning in Westminster, on Thursday, it was confirmed that Dorset County Hospital will receive a new Emergency Department and Critical Care Unit. The landmark news was announced as part of the Government’s New Hospital Programme, expected to be backed by more than £20 billion of investment in hospital infrastructure. The new Emergency Department will increase total capacity from 64 to 72 beds from 2025, while the new Critical Care Unit will have space for 24 beds. These substantial improvements to Dorset County Hospital have been announced nearly three years since record investment of £62.5 million was made by the Government, which I lobbied for and helped to secure.

Gary Jackson on behalf of Liberal Democrats across the Blackmore Vale

Conservative MP for West Dorset

Chris Loder

‘Bank risks overshooting on rates’

THE seemingly relentless rise in interest rates is causing real pain to businesses and householders. It continues to threaten the housing market, despite an ongoing demandsupply mismatch. I am though a bit wary of talk of ‘underlying inflation’ as if cherry picking the worst affected items and ignoring others, notably energy, in the basket that makes up CPI is legitimate. That’s an approach that Eeyore would choose. I want to hear from Tigger.

The sober truth is that energy underpins most of our economic activity – including food production – and hikes in the cost of it have fuelled much of the inflation we have seen since Putin’s violation of Ukraine. Inflation is now receding as a threat in this country and elsewhere. Action taken now will take a while to have any real-life effect. I worry that in continuing to

bump up interest rates the Bank of England risks overshooting, causing avoidable hardship to householders and businesses.

It should be completely obvious that being less reliant on oil and gas is sensible, whatever you might think about the extent to which human activity contributes to climate change. Happily, the UK has a vast territorial sea that can accommodate wind turbines and it possesses the associated industrial base, including bits of it locally. When the wind doesn’t blow – and it blows more reliably offshore – we will be able to smooth supply with nuclear, the decision having now been taken to invest in it.

However, announcing that an incoming Labour government would close down the North Sea offshore oil industry seems reckless, even if appealing to Sir Keir’s North London bien pensants Pumping oil and gas thousands of miles is plainly considerably less green than producing it here. Further, only a fool would

fail to learn the lessons of Putin’s hydrocarbon blackmail. But, given the international nature of the energy market, that only works if our neighbours too approach green energy with the same enthusiasm.

We also learn that Sir Keir will ‘decarbonise’ the steel industry. What that means in practice, as he must surely know, is rendering it non-viable again against cheaper imports from countries whose credentials are far less verdantly green than our own. So, more UK jobs exported. Not an immediate problem for Islington but a real one beyond the M25.

I’m proud that this country is taking a lead on net zero but to have an effect that goes beyond virtue signalling, the greening of our economy must be accompanied by similar action on the part of our planet’s big polluters.

‘Tories aren’t the party of stability’

THE one platitude one often hears on the doorsteps of North Dorset at election times is ‘I support the Tories as the Party that brings stability to Britain’. Generations have been brought up to believe that supposed truism.

This month’s events took another lump out of that myth. Witness the spectacle of hand-wringing over handing over diaries, WhatsApp messages and mobile phone records to the Hallett public inquiry on Covid-19. It really does not matter who is not providing information in an unredacted form – Boris Johnson or the Cabinet Office. It is up to Lady Hallett to decide what matters are relevant to her inquiry and what is not. Not Johnson or his successors.

This only heightens the feelings of the British electorate so eloquently already expressed at last month’s local elections that this administration cannot

be trusted.

In North Dorset our very own Tory has hit a spot of bother with his expenses. It would appear Simon Hoare

incurred a London Congestion Charge and failed to respond to four penalty point notices thereby incurring £320 in penalties, which he subsequently claimed on expenses.

While he tries to remain silent on the matter, in Northern Ireland two voices from the province have called his actions ‘shameless’ and ‘a resignation matter’ for his position as chair of the Northern Ireland select committee. Why do you not use the train get to London, Simon, like your constituents?

Meanwhile, following Mr Farage’s admission that Brexit has not worked, the Sunday Times ran a readers’ poll last edition when the vote was 87% to 13% that Brexit has been a disaster. Given that, I believe Keir Starmer should come out more strongly in favour of a much closer alignment with Europe, if only for trade purposes.

With UK personal taxation at its highest level for over 60 years and the petro-chemicals companies posting such obscenely huge profits, a Labour administration should take these factors into account when deciding the shape of economic and taxation policy in its first few months. This will help re-balance the taxation spread to the ultra-wealthy and give immense relief to the middle ground and poorest in society.

Meanwhile, we have the worrying signs of a schism in a Tory Party that is increasingly sliding to the right. At two recent Neo-Con conferences in London, Home Secretary Suella Braverman, fresh from her attempts to persuade her civil servants to arrange a private speed awareness course, was the apparent ‘star.’ She will have to be watched by her boss, Rishi Sunak, as she plots to succeed him as Tory leader.

Conservative MP for South West Wiltshire Dr Andrew Murrison

Alan Cross, on behalf of Dorset Labour

Singers seek new recruits

THE Warminster-based Athenaeum Singers are looking for new singers. They will be holding three Tuesday rehearsals at Christ Church before the summer break on June 6, 13 and 20 at 7.30pm and budding singers are welcome to go along.

New singers in all voice parts are welcome – sopranos, altos, tenors and basses.

A spokesperson for the group

said: “There are no auditions and as the three trial weeks are without charge, new singers can try it out free. You have nothing to lose!”

The next concert is on November 11 and the rehearsals will give prospective singers the chance to decide if they would like to join permanently in September.

For more information, visit the choir’s website, www. athenaeumsingers.com.

Feast of treats at folk festival

FUN and free entertainment for people of all ages is promised next weekend with Petherton Folk Fest 2023.

Folk musicians will perform in Market Square, The David Hall, The Brewer’s Arms, The Blake Hall and St Peter and St Paul’s Church – plus, for the first time, entertainment and a barbecue will be on offer on the terrace at the back of Holm restaurant.

Performers include local contemporary folk trio Arquebus, The Dambuskers – who

Although it is not currently a legal requirement, please consider wearing a face covering to protect yourself and others when visiting the Tivoli.

have opened the event on several occasions – The Merchant Men, Windjammer, Phil King, Odette Mitchell and Owl in the Sun.

The event on Saturday, June 17, will also feature some of South Petherton’s traditional events, such as the Ceremony of the Glove and Clipping the Church.

The festival gets under way at 10am with a parade by Morris dancers into Market Square, where there will be stalls and other attractions, and continues through to 6.30pm.

Attractions for children include Punch & Judy and a dance workshop, with further entertainment in The Blake Hall, and a Spoken Word session in the library.

Folk fest committee chair Pete Wheeler said: “We always aim for high standards and know that all the acts booked will strive to provide a memorable day for adults and children.”

Full details of the programme can be found on the festival’s website, www. pethertonfolkfest.org.uk

SHERLOCK’S EXCELLENT ADVENTURE FROM THE JAM UNPLUGGED WITH SPECIAL GUESTS NINE BELOW ZERO

Athenaeum Singers’ director of music Thomas Mottershead

An audience with...TV actor

CONCERTS and talks are on offer during a week-long Festival of Performing and Creative Arts at Hanford School, Child Okeford.

One of the highlights will be An Evening with Larry Lamb, one of Britain’s most popular and accomplished stage and screen actors.

He has starred in numerous television series, playing iconic roles such as Mick Shipman in BBC’s Gavin & Stacey and Archie Mitchell in Eastenders Larry’s talk, in conversation with a local Dorset friend, is loosely entitled Don’t Put Your

Daughter On The Stage, Mrs Worthington and is on Saturday, June 24.

The festival also includes a classical concert with leading violinist Shana Douglas; a concert with British soprano singer Alexandra Lowe; and Play on Words with singer and entertainer Hal Cazalet, who will bring the lyrics and stories of P G Wodehouse to life.

The festival runs from Monday, June 19, and ends on Sunday, June 25, with Hanford’s gardens opening to visitors as part of the National Gardens Scheme (NGS).

Theatre al fresco

OUTDOOR theatre is set to return to Castle Gardens in Sherborne with three fastmoving, fun-packed family shows.

The award-winning Illyria theatre company’s adaptations begin with Robin Hood by Oliver Gray on Friday, June 9, followed by William Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night on Wednesday, July 5; and Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice on Wednesday, July 12.

All three adaptations will feature fantastical sets, costume drama and plenty of laughs along the way.

The performances take place

within the Walled Garden.

Gates open at 6.30pm each night, with performances starting at 7.30pm.

Tickets are on sale from Castle Gardens, New Road, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 5NR and online via www.illyria. co.uk.

Church fete date

MERE Church Fete is back tomorrow (Saturday, June 10) after three years’ absence due to Covid-19 restrictions.

The event includes all the traditional stalls – preserves, bric-a-brac, cakes, bottle tombola, paperback books, CDs and DVDs, jewellery and toys.

And a grand raffle has lots of valuable prizes.

Cream teas will be served in the Grove Building, which is hosting an art exhibition.

The Ukes At the Butt will be playing, as will a young

drummer, and the church handbell ringer will give a demonstration of their skills.

The tower will be open for tours and, duties permitting, local firefighters will bring a fire engine along.

DogWise will give a demonstration of dog obedience to music.

Lots of games for youngsters will be on offer, along with a coconut shy, plus an ice cream van and a candyfloss stall.

The fun gets under way at 2pm.

That event will also feature live music from the Blackmore Vale Brass Band, magic by the Great Baldini and teas and cakes. Tickets are available to book via the NGS website.

Hanford has a tradition of holding festivals for pupils and the public alike – these have included a Literary Festival in 2017, an Arts Festival in summer 2018 and an Adventurers and Explorers

and to share an exciting programme of evening talks and events.

“This year we have a fantastic line-up which I hope many people will enjoy.

“Hanford’s commitment to the performing and creative arts is deep and long lasting and it was a natural step to base our annual festival around this theme.”

Festival tickets are available

Drinks will be available from

Have you found the Secret Garden in Wareham yet?

SHAKESPEARE is coming to Hatch House at West Hatch

Arrow words

Crossword

Wordsearch

Ancient Greek Map

7 3 4 5 6 9 1 1 8 3 5 5 6 8 9 3 8 6

Brain chain

‘Council lacks interest in Sherborne’

DURING the many years that I was Sherborne Town Council’s chairman of planning, I repeatedly raised the matter of decaying Grade II Newell House, along with its lapsed planning permission for 23 units of housing.

The district council – as it then was – in Dorchester showed no interest in it, its fine barn or the quality and neglect of either.

This was not unusual –Grade I Sherborne House festered for years, until finally rescued by Michael Cannon.

There were then, and still are, many empty buildings in the town.

Little interest was shown at Dorchester level in housing local people on modest incomes, maintaining standards of design, or the unique setting of the town, which has been progressively eroded.

Under Dorset Council the lack of interest in Sherborne –Dorset’s most important historic town – has continued, in some ways getting worse.

This is demonstrated by the planning department’s attitude to Newell House.

On May 11, along with several other concerned Sherborne citizens, I attended the full meeting of Dorset Council to hear questions being put to Cllr David Walsh, holder of the planning portfolio.

These related to the continuing refusal of his department to take meaningful action to arrest the decline of Newell House.

It emerged from his seriously inadequate answers that it is maintaining what he calls a ‘watching brief’, which is, of course, another name for doing nothing.

It also emerged that in the past year Dorset Council has made no use of its statutory powers to safeguard listed buildings in the county.

Given that Dorset is so rich in historic buildings, and that it is the council which has the

primary safeguarding responsibility in this area, this is a shocking state of affairs, and makes one wonder just why the council has a conservation team at all.

Katharine Pike Sherborne

IN the May 26 edition of the New Blackmore Vale we were treated to the forelock-tugging thoughts of our MP while attending the King’s coronation.

He stated that while he was incredibly honoured to be there it was, of course, all for the population of North Dorset.

With this magnanimous view of his perhaps he would now consider taking on all road traffic fines for the North Dorset populace and passing them through his expense account?

Martin Strange Pimperne

SO, the MP for North Dorset, Simon Hoare, has been claiming on expenses for his driving fines.

Four fixed penalty notices of £80 each, according to the MPs register of expenses and the BBC.

Has he learnt nothing from the MPs expenses scandal back in the 2000s?

Fiona Morgan

Corton Denham

CHRIS Loder MP may have a point – New Blackmore Vale, May 23 – regarding the absent Sherborne local councillor, though why he thinks it important to raise this matter again is a mystery.

He could, instead, refer to the various Conservative MPs who chose to desert their Parliamentary duties in search of foreign rewards – Matt Hancock for one.

Then, of course, there is Boris Johnson who, since his inept government fell, thinks it fine to miss Parliamentary debates while garnering –hardly earning – huge fees from overseas appearances, mainly in

the United States, leaving his constituents with no representative.

This is the man who expects the British taxpayer to cover his legal costs regarding the Covid-19 inquiry.

Anything to say, Mr Loder?

Roland Britain Gillingham

I COMPLETELY agree with the letter on housing in the New Blackmore Vale, April 28.

We are led to believe our natural resources are running out yet the councils are allowing developers to pour concrete in the ground in every town and village and build sub-standard houses on top.

How many of these developments all over Dorset have solar panels instead of mains electric, heat source pumps instead of mains gas, triple-glazing and adequate parking – the answer is none.

If the council refuses planning the developers give a sweetener such as a play area or a monetary gift.

It is about time councillors woke up and listened to the public before they ruin the county of Dorset – they have already ruined a lot of our towns and villages.

Mark Lott Gillingham

A HUGE thank-you to all the visitors who came to our NGS open garden weekend on May 20-21 – finally, the sun was out, spring and summer had thankfully arrived.

It was a wonderfully warm couple of days and we thoroughly enjoyed hosting approaching 200 visitors who raised between them £873.10 for vital charities such as Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie and the Carers Trust, supporting those who give so much to others at times of significant personal need. The visitor generosity, along with so many unexpected donations, will change lives. Again, thank you, one and all.

Louise & Mike Madgwick Shaftesbury

FACTOID OF THE FORTNIGHT

IT’S been hot recently and many of us were among the throngs throwing ice lollies into our baskets at the supermarket over the bank holiday.

But did you know, you probably wouldn’t be enjoying your refreshing lolly if it hadn’t been for an 11-year-old child called Frank Epperson and a mistake that probably earned him a telling off?

In 1905, little Frank left some soda powder and water outside in a cup, with a wooden stirrer.

The chilly San Francisco air meant when he returned to it, it was frozen solid.

He called it the Epsicle and sold it around his neighbourhood, at nearby amusement parks, and even patented the recipe.

Years later, he changed the name, to popsicle.

However, as with many a lolly, the ending wasn’t a happy one.

A broke Epperson sold his patent to the Joe Lowe Company in the 1920s, and regretted it as his invention became a huge success.

Rolex watch may sell for £35,000

RENOWNED luxury designer brands such as Rolex, Cartier, Omega, Patek Phillipe and Louis Vuitton will be on offer when Duke’s holds its biannual Fine Jewellery, Watches and Luxury Accessories auction.

The sale is on Thursday, June 15, from 10.30am and the option to follow bidding live online provides no excuse to miss it!

A Rolex watch is more than just a stylish accessory. It is a durable and functional piece of technology that will stand the test of time. So not only are purchasers buying a beautiful piece of jewellery, they’re also making a smart investment.

A circa 1960 stainless steel Rolex Explorer with all the

original boxes and Rolex guarantee dated 27.03.1968 carries a pre-sale estimate of £25,000-£35,000.

And a lady’s 18ct gold and ruby set cocktail watch by Rolex is a daintier and slightly more inviting option at £1,200£1,500.

The jewellery line up features ample large gemstones set immaculately on choice pieces.

Vintage Luis Vuitton trunks alongside a mature collection of wines and spirits will bring the day to a close.

Viewing begins on Saturday, June 10, with bidding available on three online platforms. Find more information and the catalogue at www.dukesauctions.com.

Crown Derby paperweights

CLARKE’S Auctions at Semley is holding a specialist Ceramics sale in July which will include a private collection of Royal Crown Derby paperweights.

More than 300 single items have already been consigned and most come with their original box and certification, making them highly collectable.

Some of the more interesting pieces Clarke’s is offering are The Mulberry Hall Indian Elephant, the Spirit of Peace Dove and the Ledge Wagon Gypsy Caravan, as well as more

affordable smaller pieces like the Galapagos Penguin and Marmaduke the Cat.

Entries are invited for this specialist sale with the entry deadline Friday, June 23.

For entries into any of Clarke’s future sales or for enquiries for consignment, probate or insurance valuations, part or full house clearances, phone Richard Clarke or Karen Marshall on 01747 855109 at the main offices on Kingsettle Business Park, Station Road, Semley, Shaftesbury.

blackmorevale.net

The long history of signet rings

ACREMAN St Auctioneers & Valuers, Sherborne, is set for a busy month.

It has a specialist Textile, Fashion & Apparel auction on Friday, June 16, at 10am with viewing on Thursday, June 15 from 10am-4pm.

A specialist 20th Century Art sale on Thursday, June 29, at 10am includes about 100 L S Lowry drawings, sketches and paintings, and other related items including his ration book, plus Picasso pencil drawing and a pen and ink drawing, Lucian Freud sketches and Salvador Dali limited run set of six tiles.

Acreman’s General Antiques & Collectables auction on Thursday, June 29, at 1.30pm and Jewellery, Silver & Watches sale on Friday, June 30, at 10am includes a 1658 Cromwellian Commonwealth silver tankard

estimated at £3,000-£4,000. Viewing is on Wednesday, June 27, 10am-5pm.

Acreman can take in everything from single items to complete collections. A spokesperson for the firm said: “If you are downsizing or need to deal with a whole house, we are happy to help with advice or valuations and can arrange a full house clearance at competitive rates. We are also very happy to make house visits if required. If you have anything you would like to consign, don’t hesitate to contact Gill Norman on 07908 333577 or 01935 50874 or by email auction@ acremanstreetantiques.co.uk.”

The company holds a valuation day every Wednesday from 10am-4pm. Acreman Auction is at 121 Acreman Street, Sherborne, Dorset.

TEXTILE,

GENERAL

FASHION &

20THC ART

ANTIQUES, PAINTINGS,FURNITURE & COLLECTABLES

1.30pm JEWELLERY, SILVER & WATCHES

THE signet ring dates back to Ancient Egyptian times when the Pharaohs used to dip them, engraved with a specific hieroglyph, in hot wax to seal important documents, and were a sign of hierarchy.

Traditionally, this type of ring was worn on the ‘pinky’ finger of the opposite hand to the one that is dominant – so if a person was right-handed, it would be worn on the little finger of the left hand. Nowadays, however, it is worn however the wearer chooses.

Signet rings that have been engraved with a family crest or motif can be passed down through generations.

It was King Edward II who introduced this style of ring to England in the 1300s and insisted that all royal documents

be sealed with his ring.

Interestingly, because this was a such a personal mark of authority, the ring used to be destroyed after the death of the wearer to prevent fraud.

In the 19th century, gemstones began to be added, and the gold and ruby signet ring worn by Edward, the Black Prince, is actually on display in the Louvre Museum in Paris.

King Charles III famously wears a signet ring on his little finger which bears the inscription of the Prince of Wales feathers motif.

This particular ring was worn by King Edward VIII when he was also Prince of Wales.

Modern signet rings continue to be popular, especially as those made from plain metals can be engraved and personalised, meaning they make a fantastic gift.

Jewellery & Watches; Coins & Silver; Toys & Dolls; and 20th Century Pictures & Decorative Arts APPAREL

For all enquiries please contact Gill Norman on 07908 333577 or 01935 508764

Next

Saturday 10th June

By Amy Brenan Heirlooms Jewellers, Wareham

Vintage Nortons up for auction

NORTON motorcycles from the estate of the late Dr George Cohen, known to many as Norton George due to his devotion to Norton bikes, feature in Charterhouse’s next auction of classic and vintage motorcycles.

“I knew George Cohen for many years and would often see him at bike race meetings in the UK, and even bumped into him in Italy and America,” said George Beale, who heads up the Charterhouse classic bike auction department.

“Well known in the race paddocks and on the track, he was never far away from one of his beloved Nortons.”

Dr George Cohen died in 2016 and now the family have decided to downsize to a property where they will not be able to keep all his Nortons.

The Norton George Collection includes a 1907 Norton Model T12 Rem Fowler replica.

This is a replica of Rem Fowler’s 1907 Isle of Man TT bike which won the first race for

a twin cylinder machine at the Isle of Man TT and is estimated at £15,000-£18,000.

A 1934 Norton International Model 30, which Norton George bought as a project in 2003, is estimated at £10,000£12,000. He undertook a full restoration in 2012/13.

Lastly from the collection, which also includes a vast number of Norton and other motorcycle parts and spares, is a 1959 Lowboy SOHC Norton Manx 500 at £15,000-£18,000.

Norton George built this bike in his shed in 2015 and rode it at The Goodwood Festival of Speed and on the Isle of Man.

Charterhouse is accepting further entries for this specialist auction of classic and vintage motorcycles on Thursday, June 29, at the Haynes International Motor Museum with viewing at Haynes on Wednesday, June 28.

George Beale and the team at Charterhouse, The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, can be contacted on 01935 812277 or via email at bikes@ charterhouse-auction.com

Call BILL 07967 816506 or 01747 811100 Email: bill@tunes.co.uk

Specialist Free Valuation Days

We’re coming back

Just like the Old Days

Valuation Days in

Monday 12th Pictures, Maps, Books & Postcards

Tuesday 13th Silver, Jewellery, Watches & Clocks

Jewellery, Watches & Silver 12th

Wednesday 14th Model Cars, Trains, Dolls & Toys

Coins, Medals, Militaria & Stamps 13th

Thursday 15th Medals, Militaria, Coins & Stamps

Chinese & Japanese Ceramics & Bronze 14th

Friday 16th Asian Ceramics & Works of Art

Mid Century & Decorative Arts 15th

Classic Motorcycle Auction 28th October

Pictures, Maps, Books & Postcards 16th

Classic Car Auction 11th November

Classic Motorcycle Auction 29th June

Further entries now being accepted

Further Entries Now Invited

The Long Street Salerooms Sherborne DT9 3BS

Home & Garden

Put your garden to the acid test

by Sally Gregson

FOR many gardeners working out the pH of their soil can be perplexing and confusing. And yet it is important. We all know whether or not our soil is heavy, wet and sticky clay; light, sandy and free-draining; or an ideal loam. We appreciate the direction of the sun on our borders or whether the garden is shady and north-facing. But knowing whether the soil, or more accurately the soil-water, is acid or alkaline is a little more mysterious.

There are plenty of kits at the garden centre to test the pH, but be wary of any that require tap-water to make them work. Tap water is sometimes a different pH from the soil and can mislead the reading.

In the context of garden soil, the pH runs from 4 (very acid) to 8 (very alkaline). 6.5 to 7 is neutral. And it is logarithmic. That is, pH5 is ten times more

acidic than pH6; and pH4 is 100 times more acidic than pH 6. Which means that it is virtually impossible to change the pH of soil without damaging it. The message is to ‘go with the flow’.

A simple way to ascertain the pH of a new garden’s soil is to look around at other, mature gardens in the neighbourhood. If an older garden is full of healthy, green-leaved rhododendrons, camellias and pieris, and their hydrangeas have blue flowers, their soil is almost certainly acid, probably below 5.5. If on the other hand they grow sycamore, yew and clematis and their mopheads are pink and red; the soil is almost certainly alkaline, with a high pH.

However, confusion can arise. If the garden is close to a plantation of conifers, or even under a beech tree, the soil beneath can be alkaline, but the top layer of leaf-litter is acid.

Lime-tolerant rhododendrons for alkaline soil

by Sally Gregson

EVERY year at Chelsea nursery exhibitors introduce new, interesting plants, and the plant that won lots of praise ten years ago was a lime-tolerant rhododendron. How many times have we who garden on limey soils been tempted to try an especially beautiful rhododendron or azalea, only to find a few years later that its leaves are yellow and it simply refuses to grow well in our alkaline garden?

The Inkarho rhododendrons, ‘rhodos’, are happy in soil that has a pH of up to 7.5, providing it is fertile and well-draining. They also put up happily with quite a bit of sun, unlike most rhodos that prefer the shade.

Rhododendron Inkarho

‘Bloombux Magenta’ is a vigorous, yet low-growing plant that would even grow into a hedge. It reaches about 75cm in good soil and would be a beautiful substitute for box. It flowers reliably in early summer with bright magenta pink flowers and can be trimmed after flowering to make a hedge.

Inkarho rhodos have been grafted onto a very special lime-tolerant rootstock that was discovered in a German lime quarry and developed over 20 years. Not only are the rhodos lime-tolerant, but the beautiful, dwarf Yakushimanum varieties have been grafted onto the Inkarho rootstock. Now they are easy to grow on almost any good soil, with the typical ‘Yak’ foliage and compact flowers.

Gardeners could take advantage of this anomaly and grow a few heaths (calluna), blue gentians or even Tropaeolum speciosum with its flame-red flowers in late summer. Clambering up through shrubs, this herbaceous climber can be grown from seed, or

bought as a young plant early in the season. If it is happy, it will be a knock-out in August and September. Bees and butterflies will flock to its brilliant blood-red flowers – a celebration of the end of summer.

Gardeners are sometimes tempted to try a rhododendron or azalea, only to find a few years later its leaves are yellow and that it refuses to grow well in an alkaline garden

Rhododendron ‘Anuschka

Inkarho’ is red in bud opening to rose-pink flowers. The flowers of R. ‘Gomer Waterer Inkarho’ open white with a golden flare. And R. ‘Schneekrone’ is a Yak with soft pink-and-white flowers with red spots.

It is especially important to feed the Inkarho rhodos with a slow-release ericaceous feed in

March and after flowering to encourage healthy growth and lots of flower the following year.

All Yaks are suitable for tubs and large containers. So many rhodos are just too big to live in a pot, but these would make an especially lovely addition to a selection of containerised ericaceous shrubs, and would flower well every spring.

PHOTO: JillWellington/Pixabay

It is important for gardeners to know the pH of their soil

PHOTO: pinus2/Pixabay

Home & Garden

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dumpy bag £70 All hardwood 07790 404593 01258 818081

BLACKMORE VALE LOG SPLITTING AND CHIPPING

- Your local mobile service07760 469411

SEASONED HARDWOOD LOGS £160 double load, £90 half load 01258 880892, 07980 036250

GOOD QUALITY SEASONED HARDWOOD FOR SALE

Barn-stored Any size of load

If you want anymore help contact Andy 07773 254174

Book online: blackmorevale.net

MARTIN SIMMONDS CHIMNEY SWEEP Friendly, Reliable, Professional - 07368 250305

K.SANSOM CHIMNEY SWEEP Brush & vacuum APICS registered 01963 370038

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

COMPLETE CLEANING. Tenancy end/ refurbishment finish/commercial/ domestic/one offs/other. DBS registered. Experienced. Mobile 07519 109374

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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.

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

Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

Family marking 50 years at the Manor

AN ‘archetypal’ Dorset country house hotel is marking its 50th anniversary this month.

Plumber Manor, in Sturminster Newton, was opened as a hotel and restaurant in June 1973 by Richard and Alison Prideaux-Brune, with brother Brian in the kitchen.

Built by Charles Brune in the early 17th century, it has remained a family home ever since and 50 years on, it remains a family affair.

The family has carefully preserved the home’s 17thcentury charm during a sensitive refurbishment programme, which has seen bedrooms and bathrooms refreshed, while the main house retains a traditional feel with antiques and open fires.

The restaurant is one of the busiest in North Dorset, testament to head chef Louis’ attention to sourcing the finest

local ingredients and his perfect pairing of flavours.

A recent guest described Plumber as ‘a unique and magical experience in a home that has been cherished and treasured over generations of our hosts’ family’. “They went

beyond great service providing true hospitality, with delicious food and facilities of timeless charm,” they added.

Richard said: “We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported us

Richard and Alison PrideauxBrune are celebrating 50 years at Plumber Manor, in Sturminster Newton

over the years.

“Our guests are our friends, and we cook for our friends.”

For more details on Plumber Manor, call 01258 472507, or visit www.plumbermanor.co.uk.

Save money and reduce carbon emissions with Solar Thermal Panels

Did you know that correctly installed solar thermal panels will provide approximately 55% of your annual hot water requirements. By heating water through the power of the sun you can cut your fuel bills whilst lowering your carbon emissions.

How do solar thermal panels work?

Solar thermal panels work by using solar energy to heat liquid stored within tubes. Once hot enough this is transferred to your cylinder and stored until you need to use the hot water for example for a bath or shower.Solar panels work on all roofs regardless of the direction your roof faces.

Difference between solar thermal and solar photovoltaic panels

Solar thermal panels harness the sun’s rays to provide hot water whereas solar photovoltaic panels ie Solar PV is designed to provide electricity for your home.

Benefits of solar thermal panels

• Provide over half of your hot water requirements. During the summer months, solar thermal panels could meet all or a substantial proportion of your hot water demands.

• Currently NO VAT on solar thermal panels.

• Saves up to 1 tonne of carbon dioxide annually.

• Reduction in fuel bills, especially if your hot water usage is high.

• Particularly cost effective in oil or LPG systems.

Do they actually work in the winter?

• Takes up much less space than solar PV.

• Running costs are minimal.

• Utilises a simple and reliable technology if installed by an expert.

Yes, solar panels do work in the winter just not as efficiently as in the summer. On sunny winter days you can still make use of the gains.

How Much do Solar Thermal Panels Cost?

The cost of installing and maintaining solar panels can vary according to a variety of factors such as the complexity of pipe runs, roofing materials and location.

If you would like to find out how much solar thermal panels cost and would like a free, no obligation fixed price quotation call Total Energy Services on 01258 472132 or email info@totalenergy.co.uk

Enford Farm Shop

Durweston DT11 0QW

The Coppleridge Inn

We are a traditional country inn with rooms, set in beautiful

Motcombe SP7 9HW

We are a traditional country inn with rooms, set in beautiful

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.

Friday 12.00-15.00, 17.00-22.00

Friday 12:00-15:00, 17:00-22:00

Saturday 12:00-23:00

Saturday 12.00-23.00

Thursday 12:00-15:00, 18:00-22:00 Friday 12:00-15:00, 17:00-22:00

Sunday 12:00-16:00

Saturday 12:00-23:00

Sunday 12.00-16.00

Lunch orders 12:00pm to 2.30pm, dinner orders 6.00pm to 8.30pm

Sunday 12:00-16:00

Lunch orders 12.00pm to 2.30pm, dinner orders 6.00pm to 8.30pm

Open Wednesday to Saturday 10am-5.30pm. Outside shop with self service for essentials open daily 8am-8pm 01258 450050

Saturday 12:00-23:00

Drinks all day Saturday - Bar last orders 9:45pm, 10:45 Friday & Saturday

Sunday 12:00-16:00

Lunch orders 12:00pm to 2.30pm, dinner orders 6.00pm to 8.30pm

Drinks all day Saturday - Bar last orders 9:45pm, 10:45 Friday & Saturday

Lunch orders 12:00pm to 2.30pm, dinner orders 6.00pm to 8.30pm Drinks all day Saturday - Bar last orders 9:45pm, 10:45 Friday & Saturday 01747 851 980 coppleridge.com info@coppleridge.com

01747 851 980 coppleridge.com info@coppleridge.com

Drinks all day Saturday Bar last orders 9.45pm, 10.45pm Friday & Saturday 01747 851 980 coppleridge.com info@coppleridge.com

01747 851 980 coppleridge.com info@coppleridge.com

Time to treat yourself, at the Clockspire!

Our Main Menu:

Available for lunch and dinner from Wednesday to Saturday, and Sunday lunch.

Set Sunday Roast:

2 Courses - £ 35, 3 Courses - £ 40

Enjoy captivating live Jazz with the Simply Jazz Trio on the last Thursday evening of each month, from 7pm to 9pm.

Listen as you delight in seasonal dishes, exciting cocktails and fine wines. Or simply come to enjoy a drink in our lovely mezzanine bar, Wednesday to Saturday 12-3pm & 6-11pm, Sunday 12-4pm.

01963 251458

www.theclockspire.com

Gainsborough, Milborne Port, Sherborne DT9 5BA

Meditations in nature: Blackbird singing in the dead of night

by Susanna Curtin

I CANNOT get over how quickly the year is passing. May is already at its close, and for some unfathomable reason, I have missed the dancing heads of wood anemones and the best of the bluebells – even the wild garlic was past its glory by the time I got to the woods. I feel somewhat bereft by this realisation, as my annual pilgrimage to pay homage to these seasonal joys is a counter to the uncertainties that life affords. The arrival of the swifts in early May, the first cuckoo, and the soulful sounds of

nightingale are part of the annual comings and goings that provide me with a safe feeling of constancy. They are like old friends coming to say hello, reminding me that all is well, that the world is still spinning. I promise myself not to let the next arrival of flowers, birds or butterflies pass without my noticing.

But for now, as I sit in my lounge watching my pair of blackbirds forage to feed their chicks, I realise how much there is to do in the garden. It will be another day of chores. Despite missing my trips to the woods, I

don’t mind staying home today. I love my scruffy array of garden flowers and all the creatures that gather right outside my door.

So, armed with my tools, I have happily set to work on my flowerbeds. Although lost in my thoughts of the June roses still

to come, a sudden lack of birdsong alerts me to the trouble that is about to unfold. Looking up towards my ash tree I watch in despair as a sparrowhawk sweeps up one of the blackbird chicks who was perched on the fence – his talons hooked tightly into the screeching ball of brown feathers. He then speeds right past my face and out into the fields beyond, lost against the infinitous blue sky as he flies his bounty towards his hungry young.

Blackbirds are our familiar garden companions. Not only are they the nocturnal songsters that break into our sleep in the early hours with their beautiful melodies and languid notes, but they are also birds with whom we frequently form an attachment. I have known many people name their blackbirds and become overly invested in their trials and tribulations, especially through the winter and at this time of year, as they raise their young. I am no

MOBILITY AID, as new not used. £75 Tel. 07891 855580

Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

The future of this surviving blackbird chick is utterly dependent on its single mother

exception. I still remember one dear blackbird who would repeat the same catchy tune at the end of each day. It was such a sad realisation when his last song had been sung.

Unfortunately, my blackbirds have had a bad time of it this year. First, a failed nest in my Jasmine, and then only two chicks from the nest in the apple tree, and alas, now they are down to one. I listen in dismay at the cacophony that follows the kidnapping. Their shrill angst-ridden calls speak of astonishment, anger and loss. You might think this too anthropomorphic for a scientist, and in the past I might have agreed with you, claiming that birds are all about instinct and not love. However, animal behavioural science is uncovering convincing evidence that suggests many birds and animals are indeed sentient beings. Besides, the empathy we reveal towards creatures outside of our own human

experience is a precursor to love and care – two components that are essential if we are to protect and understand the current plight of nature.

It took half an hour before these two parent birds simmered down and resumed feeding their last chick. We all got on with the day. That was, until more tragedy struck. This time it was the male bird who succumbed as he flew into my upstairs window and plummeted on the paving below. Now the future of this surviving chick is utterly dependent on its single mother. What a sobering reminder this is, that life can change in an instant. I sadly gather my gardening tools as the baby blackbird perches patiently waiting for his mother’s full beak. She has to carry on regardless of what has befallen her, like we all do, with as much resilience, hope and faith that we can muster.

n Dr Susie Curtin (email curtin. susanna@gmail.com)

CAR SALES

750, 2,600 miles only, excellent condition. £4,700 ONO. 07761 233330

CARAVAN & AWNING AVONDALE OSPREY S

2005 4 Berth. Excellent condition & Spec. Complete with Solar /TV/Gas/Microwave £3,000 ono. 07970 821012

STORAGE FOR CARAVANS, boats and cars at Enford Farm near Blandford. 01258 450050 / 07704 813025

Book Online classified@ blackmorevale.net

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VIEWINGS BY APPOINTMENT

2013 (13) BMW 1 Series 114i 1.6 Sport 5dr. 102bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, auto lights & wipers, hill start assist, Bluetooth, air con, alloys, 70,500 miles .......................................................................£7650

2014 (14) BMW X1 2.0TD X Line Automatic 4x4 SUV 5dr. 181bhp, diesel, 8 speed automatic gearbox, 4 wheel drive, heated leather seats, parking sensors, hill start assist, hill descent control, DAB, Bluetooth, decent boot, flat folding rear seats, upto 52mpg, 66,900 miles ......£11650

2015 (65) Ford Focus 1.5TDCi Titanium X 5dr. 120bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, Free tax, upto 74mpg, sat nav, partial leather, heated seats, parking sensors, reverse camera, auto parking system, auto lights & wipers, xenon lights, cruise control, Bluetooth, hill start assist, appearance pack, 42,000 miles ....................................................£11250

2015 (15) Honda Jazz 1.4i-VTEC ES Plus Automatic 5dr. 99bhp, petrol, CVT Automatic gearbox, flat folding rear seats, decent boot, Bluetooth, alloys, air con, sat nav, sign recognition, hill start assist, 22,500 miles ...........................................................................................£11450

2015 (65) Mercedes-Benz A180 1.5CDi AMG Sport 5dr. 109bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, £20 a year road tax, upto 72mpg fuel economy, partial leather seats, auto activation lights & wipers, cruise control, hill start assist, Bluetooth, DAB audio, 56,900 miles ..........£12250

2014 (64) Mitsubishi L200 2.5Di-D Warrior Automatic 4x4 Double Cab Pickup 4dr. 175bhp, diesel, 4x4, 4 speed automatic gearbox, cruise control, Bluetooth, auto lights & wipers, alloys, air con, bed liner, well cared for pickup with only 68,500 miles .............£11400+VAT = £13680

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

2015 (15) Peugeot 3008 2.0HDi Hybrid Automatic 4x4 Allure SUV 5dr. 200bhp, diesel hybrid, 6 speed automatic gearbox, switchable drive modes including 4 wheel drive, high seating, large boot, flat folding seats, sat nav, park sensors, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, head up display, hill start assist, Bluetooth, partial leather, FREE road tax & upto 74mpg fuel economy, 114,900 miles ................................................................£7850

2014 (14) Skoda Yeti 1.2TSi S Station Wagon 5dr. 105bhp, petrol, 7 speed automatic gearbox, high seating, large boot, high ground clearance, air con, alloys, Bluetooth, only 51,900 miles .................................£10450

2011 (61) Toyota Rav4 2.0 XT-R Automatic 4x4 Station Wagon SUV 5dr. 158bhp, petrol, 6 speed automatic gearbox, 4 wheel drive, high seating, big boot, leather & alcantara, heated seats, sliding rear seats, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, Bluetooth, only 48,500 miles .........£10850

2022 (72) Vauxhall Astra 1.2T Ultimate Automatic 5dr. 130bhp, petrol, 8 speed automatic gearbox, New shape, ½ leather, memory heated seats, heated steering wheel, park sensors, cameras, Nav, auto lights & wipers, main beam assist, sign assist, lane aid, adaptive cruise, sunroof, hill start, head up display, under 450 miles ...................................£25500

2014 (14) Volkswagen Polo 1.2 Match Edition 5dr. 60bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, parking sensors, air con, alloys, cruise control, Bluetooth, only 37,900 miles ..........................................................£8750

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

01747 854789

MOT CENTRE

MOTS, SERVICING AND REPAIRS ON ALL VEHICLES UP TO 3.5 TONNES INCLUDING HORSEBOXES AND MOTORHOMES

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Bodyshop open for all repairs and restorations, from small scratches to complete resprays, insurance work welcome.

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WIDOWER WITH LIVESTOCK SMALLHOLDING.

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MOTS, SERVICING AND REPAIRS ON ALL VEHICLES UP TO 3.5 TONNES INCLUDING HORSEBOXES AND MOTORHOMES

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Diagnostics

MOTS, SERVICING AND REPAIRS ON ALL VEHICLES UP TO 3.5 TONNES INCLUDING HORSEBOXES AND MOTORHOMES

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BIRTHDAYS

Happy June birthdays to our lovely girls, Bev and Shelley

15B Sunrise Business Park, Higher Shaftesbury Road Blandford DT11 8ST

15B Sunrise Business Park, Higher Shaftesbury Road

15B Sunrise Business Park, Higher Shaftesbury Road Blandford DT11 8ST Tel: 01258 459798

Blandford DT11 8ST Tel: 01258 459798

Email sunriseservicecentre@hotmail.com www.sunriseserviceandmotcentre.com

Tel: 01258 459798

Email sunriseservicecentre@hotmail.com www.sunriseserviceandmotcentre.com

Email sunriseservicecentre@hotmail.com www.sunriseserviceandmotcentre.com

WEDDINGS

01963 400186 www.blackmorevale.net blackmorevale.net

June 10th 2023

ZACHERY PEARCE & AMBER CORBETT

Wishing you every happiness on your wedding day and for your future together, love from mum & Dad ,James & Char, Vikki & Adam Maia, Amelia, Dottie, Anson & Darcie x

IN MEMORIAM

SYLVIA HARDIMAN

In loving memory of a dear wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who sadly left us on 20th June 2020. Forever in our hearts and greatly missed by all her family and friends.

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICE LICENSING ACT 2003

Notice is given that Ruth Caldwell applied to Dorset Council for a new premises licence under Section 17 of the Licensing Act 2003 in respect of Riverside Meadows, Sturminster Newton, A357 for regulated entertainment and the provision of alcohol generally between the hours of Saturday 19th August 2023, between 1200 and 2300. Any interested party or responsible authority may make representations by e-mailing: licensing@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk or writing to, Licensing, Dorset Council, County Hall, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1XJ within 28 days from the date of this notice. The licensing register and details of this application may be inspected by contacting the licensing Section during normal office hours or on https://www. dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/business-consumers-licences/licences-andpermits/alcohol-and-entertainment-licences/comment-on-a-licenceapplication/current-licence-applications. It is an offence under Section 158 of the Licensing Act 2003 to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application, the maximum fine on summary conviction is unlimited.

DATE: 01/06/2023

DEATHS

PERCIVAL ERNEST MALE ‘ERNIE’

Passed away peacefully at home in Sherborne on 21st May 2023, aged 87 years. After a short illness. A much loved husband to Jean, a loving dad and father-in-law to Andrew and Wendy. A treasured grandad to Jessica, Mike and Rob and partners Josh, Michelle and Kerry. Wonderful great grandad to Joe, Oscar, Freddie and Tabi. A loved brother and good friend to many. A lovely kind considerate man who would do anything for anyone. He will be greatly missed by all his family and friends. Funeral service will take place at Yeovil Crematorium on Monday 19th June at 11:20am. Enquiries c/o Brister and Son Funeral Directors Tel: 01935 812647

FIONA RUMBLE

Peacefully passed away at home on the 20th May 2023. Fiona was much loved, and will be sadly missed by all. The Funeral Service is taking place at Yeovil Crematorium on the 20th June 2023 at 2.00pm. All is welcome. Any Donations, if desired, towards Hamworthy Hedgehog Rescue. Donations can be made via online Notice, or on the day of the Service.

FEAR

June Rosemary (nee Jennings)

of Arnolds Hills Farm, Wingfield

Passed away peacefully at Dorothy House Hospice, Winsley on 22nd May aged 67 years Much loved wife of Robert, mother of Nicholas and Bridget and devoted grandmother. The service of thanksgiving took place on Wednesday 7th June 2023. Donations in lieu of flowers for Dorothy House Hospice Care may be sent c/o Matthews Independent Funeral Directors tel: 01666 822216 www. matthewsofmalmesbury.com

MURRAY

Alisdair Roderick R.M. retd.

Died peacefully at home on Thursday 1st June, 2023, aged 91 years.

Beloved husband of Patricia, much loved father to James, Ian and Robert and grandfather to ten. He will be greatly missed. His funeral service will be held at Yeovil Crematorium on Monday 19th June, 2023 at 1.20pm. Family flowers only please.

Donations, if wished to the R.N.L.I. may be sent c/o A.J. Wakely & Sons, 16 Newland, Sherborne, DT9 3JQ. (Please make cheques payable to the charity)

REGINALD JOHN CHINCHEN

on 26th May 2023 suddenly but peacefully in Salisbury District Hospital aged 96 years, of Donhead St Mary. Funeral service takes place at St John’s Church, Charlton on Monday 26th June at 11.00am. followed by interment. No flowers please. Donations if desired for Cancer Research UK 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

MICHAEL HILL

Died peacefully in Yeovil Hospital on 29th May 2023 aged 89 years, of Shaftesbury. Finally reunited with his beloved late wife Gillian, father to David and sadly missed by daughter Lucy, son in law Philip and grandchildren Edward and Charlotte.

A Service of Thanksgiving will be held at St. Peter’s Church, Shaftesbury on Thursday 22nd June at 11.00am. Donations if desired for The Royal British Legion (Shaftesbury) 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

James Philip de Havilland Saumarez

Died peacefully at home on 28th May 2023 after a short illness aged 85 years, of Motcombe. Much loved husband of Carol, father of Bill and Vicky, step-father of Kate and Andy and grandfather of seven. He will be greatly missed by all his family and friends. Memorial service to be arranged.

Any enquiries to Merefield and Henstridge F/D. Tel: 01747 853532

MARTIN DRAKE

Peacefully on the 11th May 2023. Martin aged 77 years. A dearly loved Husband, Father and Grandfather. Funeral service at St Peter and St Paul Church, Chiselborough on Wednesday 14th June at 2pm. Family flowers only please, donations if desired for Cancer Research UK or Guide Dogs For The Blind. C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Mons, High Street, Henstridge, BA8 0RB. Tel 01963 362570

MAVIS JUNE OWEN

Formerly of Blandford. Passed away in the care of Verwood House on 19th May in her 86th year.

Beloved Mum to Julie, Jenny and Chris. A much loved Nan and Great Nan. Funeral Service to be held at Poole Crematorium on Monday 19th June at 12.30pm. Bright colours by request. Family flowers only please, but donations, if desired for Alzheimer’s Research UK , may be made online by visiting www.close-funeral. co.uk or cheques payable to the charity c/o Colin J Close Funeral Service, Peel Close, Salisbury Road, Blandford DT11 7JU. Tel: 01258 453133

PETER GEORGE MERA

Of Fifehead Magdalen at the age of 94 ½, after a short illness. Peter was the beloved husband of his late wife Marjorie and of Helen, father of Stuart and Nicholas, father-in-law of Elizabeth and Sylvia and brother-in-law of Chela and Sheila. He will be sadly missed by all his family and many friends, and remembered for his sense of humour.

The funeral will be held at Yeovil Crematorium on Thursday, 15th June at 12 noon, primarily for family members and any friends would also be welcome.

A Service of Thanksgiving and Celebration of Peter’s Life will be held at Fifehead Magdalen Church at 3pm followed by refreshments at the Village Hall.

All friends will be warmly welcomed. Family flowers only and, at Peter’s request, no black please. Donations in Peter’s memory in aid of The Church of St Mary Magdalene, Fifehead Magdalen and The West Somerset Railway may be made via Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Mons, High St, Henstridge, BA8 0RB. Tel: 01963 362570

DEATHS

CHARLES EDWARD DUDMAN

“Charlie”

on 28th May 2023, passed away peacefully in Salisbury District Hospital with his family by his side after a long illness bravely borne aged 72 years, of Shaftesbury. Funeral service takes place at Salisbury Crematorium on Wednesday 14th June at 3.00pm. No flowers please but donations if desired for Motor Neurone Disease Association 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

MERRIFIELD PAULINE

MERRIFIELD Pauline late of Milton Abbas, peacefully but unexpected at Cheriton Care Home, Dorchester. She will be sadly missed by her Children, Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren. Funeral Service to be held at Poole Crematorium, Thursday 15th June 2023 at 2:00pm. Family flowers only please, donations if desired to Water For Africa and The Salvation Army may be sent to Lesley Shand Blandford, 28 East Street, Blandford Forum, DT11 7DR. Tel 01258 453425 www.funeraldirector.co.uk/pauline-merrifield

HUGO HORSFIELD

Suddenly at home in Marnhull on the 22nd May 2023 aged 67 years. Dearly loved husband of David, brother of Crispin, Antonia & Claudia. Much loved uncle, great uncle & friend to many. Funeral service at Yeovil Crematorium on Friday, 16th June at 1.20pm. Please wear a splash of colour. Family flowers only please, donations if desired for Versus Arthritis or the RSPB.

C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Mons, High Street, Henstridge, BA8 0RB.

IMBER Marina Mary

Passed away peacefully on 18th May. Dearly loved wife of the late Alan, much loved mum to Paula and Annette, and mother-in-law to Chas. Devoted granny to Alistair and Niamh. Thanksgiving service to take place at United Church, Bell Street, Shaftesbury, on Tuesday 20th June 2023 at 2:30pm. Please wear purple. Family flowers only, donations if desired, to Stars Appeal and Cancer Research UK, c/o I N Newman Ltd, 55 Winchester Street, Salisbury, SP1 1HL. Tel 01722 413136

BOYLE-HAYWARD Michael David

Aged 83 years of Horsington, On 19th May 2023, peacefully at Wincanton Community Hospital. A much loved husband, dad, grandad, great grandad, uncle and friend. Funeral Service at St John the Baptist Church, Horsington on Thursday 15th June at 2.p.m. followed by private cremation. Family flowers only please, donations in memory of Michael are being invited for The Friends of Wincanton Community Hospital.

C/O Harold F.Miles, Funeral Director, South Cadbury, BA22 7ES, Telephone. (01963) 440367

ALWAYS Janet Joy

Aged 78 years of Ansford. On 17th May 2023, peacefully at her home. A much loved wife, mum, gran, nan, great gran, sister, aunt and friend. Funeral Service at Yeovil Crematorium on Friday 16th June at 12 noon. Janet’s wish was for you to wear a touch of colour. Family flowers only please, donations in memory of Janet are being invited for St Margaret’s Hospice or Castle Cary Surgery Fund. C/O Harold F.Miles, Funeral Director, South Cadbury, BA22 7ES, Telephone. (01963) 440367

STANDERWICK Joan Margaret

(Formerly of Shaftesbury) passed away peacefully on 10/5/23 in Penhellis Nursing Home Helston, Cornwall, aged 97. A dearly loved wife to the late Bob, a much loved Mum to Colin, Trevor, Carolyn & Kevin & loving Nana, Great Nana & Great Great Nana to her 17 grandchildren, she will be sadly missed.

CALCOTT ANTHEA MARY

of Okeford Fitzpaine passed away at Dorset County Hospital on 30th May 2023, aged 85 years. Beloved Mum, Granny, Great Granny, and friend to many. Funeral Service at St Andrew’s Church, Okeford Fitzpaine on Friday 23rd June 2023 at 11.30am. Family flowers only, but donations in memory of Anthea are in aid of Okeford Fitzpaine Village Hall and can be made via Grassby & Close Funeral Service, 4 Innes Court, Sturminster Newton, DT10 1BB Tel: 01258 471024, or online at www.grassbyclose-funeral.co.uk

MARTIN GORDON

Aged 77 peacefully on Monday 22nd May left wife, sister, nephews and families. Sadly missed. Cremation at Salisbury crematorium on 13th June at 2 O’clock. Followed by wake at Church Farm Sixpenny Handley. Family flowers only. Donations to British heart foundation. C/o Richard Adlem.

CHARLES EDWARD DUDMAN

on 28th May 2023, passed away peacefully in Salisbury District Hospital with his family by his side after a long illness bravely borne aged 72 years, of Shaftesbury. Funeral service takes place at Salisbury Crematorium on Wednesday 14th June at 3.00pm. The family have requested that colourful clothing be worn please. No flowers please but donations if desired for Motor Neurone Disease Association 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

JAMES SEMPLE

Passed away peacefully, in his sleep at home in Marnhull, on the 26th of May 2023 at the age of 92. He will be much missed by his son Euan, daughter Jennifer, and their families. The family funeral will take place at Salisbury Crematorium on the 12th of June.

Crematorium in the heart of Dorset

Funerals at Harbour View are relaxed and unhurried. We guarantee a separation of 90 minutes between funeral services. And because everything needed for a dignified and personalised funeral service is available on-site, there’s no need to move from location to location.

• Unattended funerals starting from £995

• Tailored and unique Attended Funerals

• Prepaid funeral plans also available

• Local knowledge and expertise with a reputation for quality that is second to none

• Reassurance that your loved one will be looked after with utmost care and professionalism Available 24 hours a day. Find us at:

Recruitment

SITUATIONS WANTED

SELF-EMPLOYED, FLEXIBLE, to fit your needs and requirements. Accounts / Sales / Marketing / HR / General Admin. Please call 07760 995633

BLACKMORE VALE JOBS GROUP

NOW ON Facebook

BRICKLAYER

Perry & Son Ltd are looking for a qualified, experienced and conscientious bricklayer to join our team.

Tel 01747 811 285

Perryandsonl td@aol.com

PART TIME TELESALES – WINCANTON

Blackmore Vale Ltd are recruiting for a part time telesales to work in our Wincanton Office.

You will be handling incoming calls and making outbound calls for all four of our local, well-loved magazines. Advising customers on their advertising and helping with the design of their adverts working alongside a nice, friendly and sometimes mad team.

We can be flexible to consider your commitments and working the equivalent to 3 days a week.

Salary is dependent on experience.

If you’d like to join us, we’d love to hear from you. Please send your CV to debi.thorne@blackmorevale.net

Closing date is Friday 16th June

GARDENER/HANDYMAN

wanted 3- 4 hours per week. Mainly mowing grass with self propelled mower/ ride on mower. Good rate of pay - suit active retiree. Call 07717 760623

TRACTOR DRIVER

WANTED on dairy farm in Sturminster Newton. Tel: 01258 472050

HARVEST TRACTOR DRIVER REQUIRED on arable farm near Mere, Wiltshire .Experience essential. No accommodation.

07966 195204

BRICKLAYER/MASON

REQUIRED on large refurbishment project. Start immediately. Contact TA Green 01963 34221

FJ Chalke are recruiting!

We are looking for qualified and experienced Vehicle Technicians to join our team.

With vacancies in Mere, Gillingham, Wincanton, and Yeovil, we’re on the hunt for hard-working and enthusiastic individuals with an NVQ Level 3 qualification (or equivalent), in return, we offer ongoing training and support, along with a whole host of other benefits, including a competitive salary and bonus opportunities. Valid UK driving licence required.

To apply, please send your CV and covering letter to recruitment@fjchalke.co.uk

FJ Chalke & Vale Motors

Hair Stylist Required

Hair stylists are required for our long standing established salon in Mere, Wiltshire. Join our team on a full or part-time basis. Benefit from great rates of pay, paid holiday, work based pensions, up to date training, free parking and a beautiful bespoke salon environment.

For more information and to discuss hours on this great opportunity contact Hayley on 01747 863471 or email Hayleyshairdesign9@gmail.com

GARDEN HELP REQUIRED, 1-2 days per week in established garden in the Donheads, to assist full time gardener. Duties to include grass cutting, strimming, weeding and other general garden/estate work. Please send cv to kerrylovatt@hotmail.co.uk

PART-TIME BUTCHER ASSISTANT REQUIRED. Thursday, Friday 7:30-5 Saturday 7:30-4

To help with serving, driving and prep work. Must have a full driving license.

Experience not necessary, full-training given. 01935 812071 or email parsonsbutchers@outlook.com

BRICK LAYER & GENERAL EXPERIENCED CONSTRUCTION WORKER

Required for long-established Shaftesbury based company Ability to undertake a range of various areas of work an advantage. Good rates of pay for the right person, dependent on experience and ability

Contact Andy 07979 210074 or email andy @sandsltd.biz for details

Landscapers and labourers needed.

We are looking for skilled landscapers and general labourers to join our team. A good knowledge of hard and soft landscaping along with a can do attitude required, drivers preferred but not essential. Long term positions within an establish local company. Previous applicants need not reapply.

07792892999

info@greenhavenlandscapes.co.uk

Kingston Equine Vets Shave Hill Buckhorn Western Gillingham Dorset SP8 5HY

01747 822799 equine@kingston.vets.co.uk

Full-time Maternity Cover for Administrator at Kingston Equine Vets

Veterinary Administrator/Receptionist - an exciting opportunity to join a developing team at Kingston Equine Vets, Buckhorn Weston, Gillingham, Dorset. This is a maternity cover position with the option to become a permanent contract for the right candidate. Also, there is a possibility of training on equine nursing and completion of a nursing diploma in the future. To start Monday 19 th June 2023.

Daily tasks include: general reception duties including answering the telephone, booking of appointments, organising of the diary, greeting clients and dealing with client requests. Attention to detail, good customer service and confident telephone skills are required. Prior experience with horses or equine business preferred. 40 hours each week working 8.30- 17.30 with 1 hour lunch break.

Five weeks holiday plus bank holidays (pro rata) plus birthday leave. Company discounts and access to great saving offerings.

To apply: Please send covering letter and CV to Annette PurduePractice Manager. Email: annette.purdue@kingstonvets.co.uk

PART-TIME CARER/PA REQUIRED. East of Shaftesbury for busy mother in wheelchair. 07790 524241

VACANCY FOR PARISH CLERK TO KNOWLTON PARISH COUNCIL

http://www.knowltonparishcouncil.org.uk

Part-Time 42.5 hours per month

The role requires excellent communication skills along with good organisational and numeracy ability. The work is primarily home-based with monthly meetings. Please apply in writing with an accompanying CV and the details of two referees via email to clerk@knowltonparishcouncil.org.uk

The closing date for applications is 7th July 2023

BLACKMORE VALE JOBS GROUP NOW ON Facebook

The Blackmore Vale Ltd is looking for an experienced Sales Executive to join our team.

About You

• You’ll need to be target driven.

• Have a proven track record of B2B sales.

• Have the ability to work independently sourcing your own leads, through competitive media, online and social media.

• An understanding of both print and digital advertising.

• The personality to build a strong customer base.

• Your own transport is a must with mileage paid. This is a full time role.

• You’ll be joining a friendly, supported team, where you’ll be selling across a range of regional magazine titles.

• We DON’T do hard sell, these are local magazines, supporting local communities, success is key, but we’re also building a reputation we’re proud of.

• We DO recognise and reward success especially team members who exceed their targets. Be nice, but be successful!

• You’ll need to be based within and familiar with the Blackmore Vale area.

• You’re welcome to work from our Wincanton office or work from home within Dorset, Wiltshire or Somerset.

For more information or to apply, please contact; debi.thorne@blackmorevale.net

URGENT RAGWORT PULLERS NEEDED at Higher Houghton Blandford. 30 acres need clearing annually. Earn £1,000 for your team. Hourly rates £12 depending on experience. To start immediately. Please call Mrs Barnes 07799 605908

Clean Room Production Operatives

Local Medical Company based between Gillingham and Shaftesbury

Various shifts available £11.01-£11.56 per hour

Full/Part Time Office Assistant

Local Manufacturer located between Gillingham and Shaftesbury

Hours and hourly rate to b e discussed on interview

Email julie@meditechsystems.co.uk

blackmorevale.net/jobs

EXPERIENCED TRADESMAN, Good rates of pay, variable work immediate start, for local family run business, 01747 824905

ENTHUSIASTIC GARDENER WANTED for established family garden maintenance & landscaping business. Plant knowledge preferred but not essential. Driver preferred but not essential.

Full time position covering North Dorset, Somerset & Wiltshire. Contact-lawnstolandscaping@gmail.com

Independent Co-educational Boarding and Day School

Independent Boarding and Day School for Pupils aged 4 -18 GSA/CISC

Nursery Prep Senior Sixth Form

The Society of Heads/CISC

Full Time Early Years Practitioner

Driver Required

Independent Boarding and Day School for Pupils aged 4 -18 GSA/CISC

Independent Co-educational Boarding and Day School Nursery Prep Senior Sixth Form The Society of Heads/CISC

Full or Part Time Domestic Assistants

Driver Required

We are looking for organised, friendly and cheerful Domestic Assistants to join our committed Domestic team whose role is to ensure that the school is cleaned to a very high standard.

Leweston School is seeking a full-time enthusiastic and committed Early Years Practitioner to join our thriving Nursery, which offers high quality childcare and education. We offer highly competitive rates of pay (£10.15 per hour for NVQ Level 2 qualified & £11.58 per hour for NVQ Level 3 qualified) and generous holiday allocations in addition to a package of benefits which includes; delicious meals for staff and use of leisure facilities plus generous discounts on staff childcare, exceptional access to CPD and further training and a ‘golden hello’ scheme.

We are seeking to appoint a School Minibus Driver to start at the end of August 2018 The role entails driving the School vehicles on designated routes collecting children in the morning and dropping off in the afternoon at prearranged points You will also assist with some basic maintenance and cleaning of the fleet. The primary qualities sought are a genuine commitment to the welfare and safety of young people You must hold a valid PCV Manual, (D or D1) Licence.

Hours are flexible and will be agreed with the Domestic Supervisor.

Benefits include staff discount and free uniform.

We are seeking to appoint a School Minibus Driver to start at the end of August 2018. The role entails driving the School vehicles on designated routes collecting children in the morning and dropping off in the afternoon at prearranged points. You will also assist with some basic maintenance and cleaning of the fleet The primary qualities sought are a genuine commitment to the welfare and safety of young people. You must hold a valid PCV Manual, (D or D1) Licence

Rate of pay: £10.42 per hour.

Hours: 20 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 0630 to 0830 and 1730 to 1930 Term Time only Rate of Pay: £9 69 per hour plus holiday pay

For further information and to download an application form please visit our website: https://www.leweston.co.uk/information/work-with-us

Closing date for Applications: Friday 23rd June 2023.

Please send your CV with the names of two referees to the HR Manager, Leweston School Leweston, Sherborne, DT9 6EN or email: recruitment@leweston.dorset.sch.uk

Hours: 20 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 0630 to 0830 and 1730 to 1930 Term Time only. Rate of Pay: £9.69 per hour plus holiday pay

Working within our friendly and professional team, this is an opportunity for well-qualified practitioners to help create a nurturing and stimulating environment for children aged 0 - 4 years. The ideal candidates will have a good working knowledge of the EYFS, strong communication skills and a passion to be an exceptional Early Years Educators. We are committed to the professional development of our staff and there will be opportunities for progression.

Applicants should be qualified to either NVQ Level 2, NVQ Level 3 or equivalent, experience of working in a similar role is desirable.

The position is full-time, hours to be agreed with the Nursery Manager. Hours of work are between 7.30am and 6.15pm, Monday – Friday, in accordance with the duty shift rota.

Please send your CV with the names of two referees to the HR Manager, Leweston School Leweston, Sherborne, DT9 6EN or email: recruitment@leweston dorset sch uk www.leweston.co.uk

For further information and to download an application form please visit our website:

https://www.leweston.co.uk/information/work-with-us

An enhanced DBS check will be undertaken by the School.

Closing date: 15th August 2017

Closing date for Applications: Friday 23rd June 2023

Paul’s on top of the world!

CYCLIST Paul Hopkins from Shaftesbury emerged a winner in the Gravel World Series round in Scotland and qualified for the World Championships in Italy in October.

Paul, 52, beat 162 other riders in the 50-54 age category to take the top step and claim his first ever UCI world jersey and medal.

Some 861 competitors set off from Gatehouse of Fleet, Dumfries and Galloway, on the

71-mile off-road course, which included a 2,000-metre climb.

Paul, a factory rider for Merida Bikes and supported by Schwalbe Tyres and other brands, has been racing cross country mountain bikes for years and been Masters National Champion.

Gravel racing is a relatively new sport and the event in Scotland attracted riders from all over the world – including F1 driver Valtteri Bottas after the Italian grand prix was cancelled due to severe weather.

Rebecca goes close in champs

by Ashley Tomkins

EIGHT swimmers from Yeovil District Swimming Club achieved the qualifying times to compete in the Swim England South West Regional Championships.

They were: Dexter Scott (age 13), Giulio D’Andrea (13), Theo Perrin (14), Harry Abbott (14), Rebecca Tomkins (14), Oliver Frost (15), Rowan Hooper (15) and Charlotte Harries (18).

The championships took place at Millfield School in Street and Hengrove in Bristol for swimmers aged 11-14, and at the Plymouth Life Centre for the over-15s, over three

SWIMMING

16 teams in charity competition

by Linda Wilton

STALBRIDGE Short Mat

Bowls Club had 16 teams from Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire in their annual Invitation Charity Competition on Saturday (June 3).

They were competing for the George and Joan Newell Shield and Plate in the all-day triples competition.

weekends.

Rebecca Tomkins made the finals in the 50m and 100m breaststroke events and took the silver medal home in the 50m event.

Head coach Ian Angel and assistant head coach Paul Perry supported the swimmers at their events.

The club now look forward to the next open meet at Weston-super-Mare in June and the club championships in July.

The club have a few vacancies for new swimmers – for more information visit the website, www.ydsc.com, or email membership.ydsc@gmail. com.

Medallists in national events

by Sonia Ward

TWO major national archery events were held over the spring Bank Holiday weekend, with local archers from Ballands Bowmen Archery Club achieving success in both competitions.

The Archery GB All British & Open Field Championships took place over two days near Bedford. A challenging course over natural terrain faced the competitors, with many targets set on steep slopes.

Ballands member and barebow archer Adam StrachanStephens came first in his class, with Sarah Hake winning silver

ARCHERY

in the ladies’ competition, following in the footsteps of other club members over many years.

Meanwhile the National Field Archery Society celebrated their 50th anniversary by holding a two-day event in the grounds of Belvoir Castle, near Grantham.

The competition had 650 entrants of all ages, the courses providing picturesque settings around the wider grounds and woodlands next to the castle.

Representing Ballands, Chris Pleasants won gold in Freestyle,

with Jamie Rawson winning silver (Barebow).

Ballands Bowmen are hosting another national field archery event, the Archery GB British 3D Championships, at Penselwood, near Wincanton, in June.

Later in the summer, the NFAS Wessex Week will provide eight days of competitive field archery at four local archery clubs, with Ballands hosting two days of this event, too.

For more details of forthcoming events and membership visit ballandsbowmen.co.uk

George and Joan Newell were founder members of the club, which when it got off the ground in 1988, was one of the first in Dorset. The club decided to run a charity competition in their memory.

The event raised about £500 and Shield winners were Hazelbury Bryan SMBC while Okeford Fitzpaine SMBC won the Plate.

Stalbridge Indoor Bowls Club are open all year round and the friendly, social club welcome individuals of all ages from 18 years old. They meet three times a week for roll-ups and have three teams who take part in leagues and competitions. To find out more, phone Linda on 07922 506765, email lynjean48@gmail.com or find the club on Facebook.

GOLF

WINCANTON Golf Club results. Mike Parfitt Memorial Glass – May 23: 1 John Wolstenholme nett 66, 2 Trevor Mills nett 70, 3 Chris Mieville nett 71. Mike Parfitt Putter –May 23: 1 Kevin Dineen nett 31, 2 Keith Williams nett 34, 3 Rodney Cox nett 35. Seniors 9 Hole Qualifier – May 26: 1

Steven Ireland 20, 2 John Westaway 17 ocb, 3 Jon Reed 17. Monthly Medal – May 27: 1 Richard Czemerda nett 69, 2 Trevor Mills nett 70, 3 Jim Phillips nett 72. Richard Ward Memorial Trophy – June 3: 1 Ray Hirst 41, 2 Trevor Mills 40, 3 John Burns 37.

Young swimmers Rebecca Tomkins and Charlotte Harries

Paul Hopkins won his section in the Gravel World Series round in Scotland to qualify for the world championships in Italy

Reasons for a reduced appetite

by Lynn Broom Longmead Veterinary Practice

OUR pets can have a change in appetite for many reasons, some temporary and some ongoing. Knowing when this is significant and what may be causing it can vary.

A pet which is eating less and unwell in themselves may have a high temperature, may be in pain or may be feeling nauseous.

A high temperature usually causes a reduced appetite even in the absence of other symptoms. A high temperature can be due to an infection or an immune condition and should be investigated.

A change in food may alter appetite. Some foods are less palatable but also sudden changes in diet can irritate the gut causing nausea, pain or irritation from diarrhoea. If this is short-lived and self-resolves then no action is required. If it is not resolving, a temporary change to a bland diet for a few days may be needed or a vet visit may be necessary. Try to avoid sudden changes in diet to prevent this.

If your pet has a painful mouth or throat due, for instance, to infected teeth or a sore throat, then their appetite may be reduced and they may drool, rub at their mouth or cough. If this is significant or

not resolving quickly then a vet visit is required.

Overweight animals do not have the hunger drive and may be less inclined to eat. Once overweight, and especially if not exercising much, very few calories are required to maintain daily requirements. This can be misinterpreted and you may keep offering new foods to encourage eating. Dogs can go several days without food if they are otherwise well.

Exercise is generally required to stimulate the appetite and a pet which is not exercising, such as due to family circumstances or being rested following an injury, will often be less hungry. They may also defecate less frequently due to reduced volume of food going in. If, however, your pet is trying to defecate and is unable to, then a vet visit may be required.

Entire male and female dogs may have a reduced appetite at certain times. Males may stop eating if they smell a bitch in season and are distracted by this. Females can have a reduced appetite before or during their season or during a false pregnancy following a season. If they are otherwise well then this can be monitored in the short term but any other symptoms, such as drinking more or vomiting, suggest further investigation is required.

WANTED:

BLUE

MID DORSET BRANCH CATS PROTECTION Cats looking for new homes

n Bagheera (eight years).

Lovely boy looking for a quiet home with no children or other pets

n Tommy (14 years). Everyone who meets Tommy falls in love with this charming fella

n Misty (four years).

Loving, on her own terms, looking for a garden to explore in a safe location

We are still offering neutering and microchipping for £5 in postcode areas DT10 and DT11, SP7 and SP8, and BH21. Phone: 01258 268695.

n Kitty (seven years). Shy black and white girl

n Tilly (two years).

Gorgeous friendly calico tortie girl

Tip #41: Cats and dogs II – initial introductions

n Honey (three years). Shy longhaired tortie, needs quiet home to build her confidence

n Timmy (14). Black and white looking for a peaceful retirement. Not happy in his pen, so a home as soon as possible would be great

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.

LOST CATS

If you have lost a cat, please contact us via our website, phone or Facebook. Please make sure we have a contact phone number so we can get in touch with you quickly if needed.

n Black, wearing red collar, missing since April 16 from Bayfran Way, Blandford.

n Black, white patch on belly, missing since February 13 from Buckland Newton.

FOUND CATS

If you regularly see a cat in your garden or down your street that you don’t think has an owner, please give us a call – it might be a lost cat that could be reunited with its owner.

INITIAL introductions that are rushed or handled wrongly can considerably increase the time and difficulty involved in integrating the animals, so investing time and effort early on will always pay dividends.

The initial aim should be for the dog to learn to ignore the cat, rather than to seek out interactions.

First, introduce some of the other animal’s scent via your hands. Next, station the cat on a high resting place in a room with a helper – inside a cat box if concerned about her reaction. Bring the dog into the room on a short lead staying as far away from the cat as possible. As soon as the dog sees the cat, direct his attention onto some high value treats scattered or dropped onto the floor. Offer the cat high value treats too. If both remain calm, continue offering high value treats for ignoring the other for a few minutes before separating them again.

Repeat these sessions multiple times a day, keeping them separated at all other times. If the dog becomes fixated or over-aroused, stop the session and retry later, ideally at a greater distance. Next time, how to progress.

n Helen Taylor is a qualified, accredited behaviourist, a Certified Clinical Animal Behaviourist, a Registered Practitioner with the Animal Behaviour and Training Council and is a member of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors and the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (no 881). help@helentaylordorset.co.uk; www.helentaylordorset.co.uk

Items for sale

CLASSIFIED ADS

DRIVE LIGHTWEIGHT

TRANSIT Wheelchair, VGC £85 - 07487 605434

STIHL BG86C BLOWER £150 - 01258 452118

ALEXANDER ROSE, hardwood garden table. 6/4 seater, 4 carver chairs, excellent condition £200

TEL: 01963 371315 or 07470 931044

3 PIECE STRESSLESS. Very heavy, Solid wood showing - £900 07487 391771

STUNNING, SNOW COVERED, CHRISTMAS TREE for sale, £35 ono. Only used once, 6ft tall. Must collect from Stour Provost. 01747 838220

CHOCOLATE BROWN LEATHER SOFA, (3 seater, with sofabed), for sale. Nearly new, great condition. £600 ono. Must collect from Stour Provost. 01747 838220

Iseki SxG19 RIDE-ON HIGHLIFT COLLECTION

520hours £4,000 ono; Morso mitre Guillotine £450 ono; Evolution table-bench saw £80ono; Axminster 10’ mitre saw £85 ono; Axminster trade scroll saw £350 ono;Various electrical and hand tools open to offers. 01935 891324

LIGHTWEIGHT MOBILITY SCOOTER, Castle Cary, nearly new, £1,100 ono. 01963 359618

PORTABLE PA SYSTEM for sale, £45 ono. “DJ Tech,” 140 watts, mp3 built in. Must collect from Stour Provost. 01747 838220

MOBILITY WALKER FOR SALE, £25 ono. Purple, under seat storage. 01747 838220

LIGHTWEIGHT

WHEELCHAIR, easy to assemble and put in car, great condition. £435 New, asking for £200. 07449 927879

DISHWASHER FOR SALE. Never used, 8 place settings, Counter top of floor. 550mm high, £50 ono. Must collect from Stour Provost. 01747 838220

FOR SALE: HIGH TEMPERATURE MUFFLE FURNACE, also a Bego Fornax T, suitable for Dental/ Potters. Reasonable offers accepted, must view. 07849 271144

LATHAN EXTENDABLE DINING TABLE and 6 chairs, VGC £200 Also matching Lathan display wall unit, excellent condition £375. Photos available

07929 639692

FREE CLASSIFIED ADS

PILATES MACHINE WITH DVD of exercises £40 - 01258 471394

AMBLERS WORK BOOTS steel mid sole and toe, size 7, £1507847 746032

DASH FOLDING WHEELCHAIR suitable for carboot, as new £50 01258 456497

BEATRIX POTTER MRS

RABBIT in Rocking Chair figurine. 739537.Excellent condition £40 - 07707 112910

6 DINING CHAIRS. Recycled wood. Good condition. £15 each. Call 01747 840777

MENS M&S NAVY BLUE REAL SUEDE MOCCASIN SLIPPERS. thermowarmth fur lined. size 8 NEW. Was £27.50 - £17 01935 851076

CROSSTRAINER GAZELLE £20. 0759 206 7384 Bruton area.

FISHING EQUIPMENT

KORUM barber rod, 3 pound strain x 2 - £25. Fishing food£10. 4 mixed bank sticks - £10 Small net - £5 01935 476815 (Bradford Abbas)

2 LARGE RED CUSHIONS

(21”x21”) £3 each - 01963 350118

DISHWASHER FOR SALE. Never used, 8 place settings. 550 mm high £50 ono. Must collect from Stour Provost 01747 838220

MAPLIN A3 LAMINATOR WITH POUCHES £20. Shaftesbury Tel. 07966 053208

NEW PATIO METAL FRAME table & 4 chairs formica top 46ins x 29ins £20 - 01747 854313

SONY HI-FI includes turntable, radio, double cassette deck, CD player and speakers. Very good condition £50 Tel: 07891 987809

ROLLATOR BLUE Good Clean Condition £15 - 01747 840865

2 KAMPA XL HIGH BACK FOLDING ARMCHAIRS with carrying bags rarely used so VGC £15 01747 823921 (evenings only)

ICEKING CHEST FREEZER 1180x655x910mm, 2 years old. £50 ono.

Telephone 01747 854654

SIEMENS VACUUM 26.0 with all tools perfect working order. £20. 01935 413554

BT4000 TWIN PHONE. Large button handset. Phones and Charger units. As New £25 07599 829539

2 SWIVEL & RECLINING SIMULATED LEATHER ARM CHAIRS with matching stools. £50. 01935 425362

GENTS NEARLY NEW JACKET 48 ins. Chest, brown check pattern with side vents very smart, £25 bargain never worn. 01823 480848

JAPANESE WOODEN FUTON makes 5ft bed. Donation to Air Ambulance 01258 820036

3 SEATER SOFA excellent condition. Donation to Air Ambulance 01258 82024/820036

3 GIGASET PHONES and chargers. Not require anymore £25 - 01963 31930

QUALCAST 1200w ELECTRIC ROTARY MOWER, few years old but not much used. £38

MOBILITY AID. Lightweight folding four wheel walker with padded seat, carry bag.Purple. As new Not used. £70 Telephone 07891-855580

LOVELY MCCULLOCH 270X

PETROL STRIMMER goes then stops, easy fix, really good condition, £35 ono Tel: 01747 822422( Gillingham)

AMCOR DEHUMIDIFIER, free-standing on castors. Operates quietly.possible local delivery. £45. 01963 370598

QUALCAST 1200w ELECTRIC ROTARY MOWER with grass box. Not new but hardly used £35. 01258 863686

HUSQVANA 41 CHAINSAW £25 - 01258 452118

GIANT HOLLYWOOD BICYCLE, good condition £50 ono. 01258 830233

14 INCH MOTOR MOWER needs new motor cable. £20. 01963 362148 evenings

WORLD OF INTERIORS

MAGAZINES (16 of them) £8. 01935 389064

KENNEL PET-MATE

VARI-KENNEL, strong plastic construction £30 30”H x 34”L x 21”W

Ideal for outdoor working/kennel dog. 01308 868816

WOODEN SINGLE BED. Complete with trundle and two mattresses £50 07938174468 (near Bruton)

HOSTESS TROLLEY with 4 lidded dishes, excellent condition. £50 - 07929 639692

RUGBY WORLD MAGAZINES. Bound volumes 1960/1-1993 + loose issues 1994-1996. £50.00. Tel:01747 811150

VONSHEF CENTRIFUGAL

JUICER 800W, for fruit & vegetables, 2 speed Easy to clean. Hardly used. Excellent condition. £40. 07884 058248

COPPER PANS-TWO SAUCEPANS, one mould and one ladle. £40 the lot! Tel: 01747 811551

2 SETS BOWLS 4 Henselite, 4 x Thomas Taylor. £30 01749 344493

LADIES CARRERA BIKE VGC £50 - 01258 451113

SANYO VHS RECORDER, with manual. 21 various recorded films £25. 01258 821259

£20, BATHROOM BATH, Chipped Enamel, Use Full To You, Gillingham 01747 824240

1 SINGLE DIVAN BED BASE

3ft £12 and AA book of walks in England £12 - 01202 692730

HEADBOARD KING SIZE

Highgrove Leo floor standing in Praline,150cm x 138cm. Excellent condition. Collection only. £50 (£299 new) 07968 702904

GOLF CLUBS

Full set of Slazenger left handed golf clubs and trolley £50 - 01935 421313

LARGE COPPER PLANTERS and kettle. - £20 each 07487 391771

WANTED

Old metal 4ft wide waistheight gate (or 2-part 8ft gate) 01258 488684

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

WANTED

All militaria bought British/Foreign Single items or collections

Contact Tim on 07904 082997

Back when we had late light nights

Spring, being a tough act to follow, God created June

by A J Selby

JUST before I hit my teenage years, the Government gave the British public a wonderful gift in the form of extra evening daylight. Between 1968 and 1971 the clocks were permanently one hour forward in winter with an extra hour for the summer. This meant the onset of darkness in June and July arriving at about 11pm, which was fantastic for adults and older kids alike, and the current midsummer 3.30/4am sunrise which benefits but a very small minority, started an hour later.

A repeat of this experiment has been mooted in Parliament over the years but due to objections from the north of Scotland there appears little chance of it being adopted. It seems a little bizarre that 67% of the British public want to change the summer clocks but can’t, whereas 51% wanted to come out of Europe and we did – as they say, ‘go figure’.

I recently had a conversation with a fellow dog walker on a sunny morning and we discussed how fulsome was the may blossom this year – did the late spring hold it back so that it all burst out together? The best may blossom year that I can ever remember was 1975. It preceded a lovely summer and looking out across the fields from the garden it was as though a blanket of snow had fallen on the hedgerows, so dense were the flowers that year.

I love evening walks in the warm air at this time of year as you can take in the heady scents of the may blossom and cow parsley assailing your nostrils as bats flit around in the darkening sky silhouetted against the stars. Get out close to midnight around the time of the full moon on those special evenings when the residual warmth of a hot day permeates into the night and you can just drink in the

countryside as the birds go to roost and the nocturnal life ventures abroad.

The cow parsley, of course, can be enjoyed during the daytime whether walking or driving. The hedgerows are blanketed white with their umbelliferous flower heads and they make quite a spectacle. It’s related to the carrot and, of course, the herb parsley, and has many regional names such as fairy lace, Spanish lace, badman’s oatmeal, Queen Anne’s lace and mother die! It’s thought that this last name refers to its similarity with the poisonous hemlock – which has black blotches on its stems –and hogweed – a much larger and stouter plant – a warning to treat unidentified plants with caution.

Still no cuckoos again this year. Hearing one has become something of a rarity for this bird, which is firmly ensconced on the red list of endangered species. Years ago, The Times would receive letters in late March or early April with news of the first cuckoo ringing out its eponymous song. The bird could be heard all over England every spring and summer but now it’s become a worrying rarity, like many of our formerly common birds.

Hereabouts the once ubiquitous rabbit seems in decline again – it’s a cycle of population growth, decimation by myxy and then a slow climb in numbers, and we seem to be at the bottom of the curve at present. Of course, myxomatosis left a scar that put people off eating rabbit, seeing the poor creatures suffering a lingering death as the infectious virus spread.

However, go back to wartime and many a family was more than grateful for rabbit on the menu, and to country people, it was often their main source of protein. I recall old Albert Poole from my youth telling me how his father taught him to knock over a rabbit with a heavy stick

weighted at one end like a Penang Lawyer. He said his family would have gone hungry in the 1930s and 1940s but for his bit of poaching. This was repeated all over the countryside during those years of austerity and ingenious ways of trapping and catching them

were employed.

So next time you throw meat into the bin or let it go off in the fridge, remember that just a couple of generations ago, to do so would have been unthinkable.

As my dear old Dad used to say of the ‘modern’ generations

In wartime, many families were more than grateful to eat rabbit

PHOTO: David Mark/Pixabay

BA9 8EW, Sunday 18th June 1030, Last entry 1430

Farming

Lambs behave just like their mums

by Tria Stebbing

THEN, just like magic, the grass went mad. If we had a flock of 350, we still could not keep up with it.

Having returned the rams back to the home village and left them water, we began driving over and checking on them daily. Recently I went over to check on them and spent some time looking around the paddock panicking thinking they had got lost or escaped. I found them under the oak tree fast asleep in a pile together –they looked at me as if they did not have a care in the world when I scolded them.

We used the three-string electric fence to stop them from straying, but it was not an easy job to put it up around the stinging nettles and brambles. The rams do not go near the fence at all anymore – it is more of a visual deterrent, having got the wrong side of it once or twice does appear to program them to keep away.

Two weeks after spending hours putting the fence up, the grass had grown so tall we could not even see it anymore, let alone the rams. We decided

based on the growth that we will cut and bale those paddocks in a few weeks, so went through the whole thing again, catching the rams, taking the fence down and moving them on.

On closer inspection we noticed that despite being doused in repellent, they were covered in ticks. So many around this year – it must be down to the damp, warm conditions.

The lambs are thriving, again despite battling ticks, mastitis and some sore feet caused by the mud impacting between their toes.

They are now developing their own personalities. It is fascinating to watch them develop. The ‘in your face’ ewes have lambs that want your attention as soon as you open the field gate; the ‘just leave me be’ ewes again have reserved lambs that are happy to spy on you from behind the water trough; and the ‘I am bonkers’ ewe – you’ve guessed it, their lambs are so busy doing zoomies around the paddock they rarely stop to feed!

The wild flowers under the hedge that was laid around the

boundary are flourishing –everything seems to be covered in more blossom than ever this year. The hawthorns are in full swing and heavy with blossom, and the elderflower seems to be a bit early.

This weekend’s job will be to spray off the thistle, that like everything else is in fine fettle. We are shortly to add to our menage of animals and the new resident might not appreciate the amount of thistle popping up. They are good pollinators and in Scotland they are the national flower, standing for bravery, strength and luck. My interpretation of this might be that you need to be very brave, have strong gloves and good luck on your side if you decide to try and pull them out by

hand.

Buttercups have also had a good year – ranunculus bulbosus flower in early spring. In the language of flowers, the buttercup has the symbolic meaning of growth, good health and attraction – how many of us can remember sitting on the school field holding buttercups underneath the chins of our friends to see if they liked butter.

The flowers reflect off the skin because they are highly reflective, and in a paddock mixed in with the cuckoo flower they are simply spectacular.

A busy few weeks ahead in the field preparing for our new guest. Watch this space for more on the new arrival – what could it be?

Buttercups – ranunculus bulbosus – have had a good year

Farmers bemoan tech troubles

FARMING businesses’ ability to meet the challenges of the future are being held back by poor broadband and mobile connectivity, the NFU’s latest Digital Technology Survey has revealed.

Despite rural connectivity improving slightly in the last year, only 21% of farmers overall have reliable mobile signals across their whole farm, and fewer than half reported broadband speeds which they say are adequate for their business. One in 20 farmers report that they have no reliable outdoor mobile signal on their farm at all.

Submitting VAT returns, GPS on tractors, talking to customers and much more all rely on strong connectivity, and consistent access to the internet is needed for farmers so they can comply with UK regulations

and operate their businesses efficiently. Mobile signal is also critically important for health and safety, in an industry where farmers often need to work in remote areas on their own.

To achieve this the NFU is calling for the Shared Rural Network to remain a government priority and be finished by 2025; broadband schemes to apply to all types of broadband access, not just fibre; and support for farmers to access agricultural-specific digital skills training.

NFU Vice President David Exwood said, “In a time when food security is so prevalent on the government’s agenda, we need to produce more of what we do well here. This means being as efficient and productive as possible, and access to the internet is vital for businesses to do this.”

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Times past: The days of hay

by Ruth Kimber

BEFORE the advent of silage making, all stock farms made hay. The best hay was made in late May or early June, which was reserved for milking cows and baby calves. This hay still had the all-important seed head where lots of nutrients are stored.

The grass was cut, when I was a child by a cutter bar mower, only covering about 5ft –1.5m – called the swath. Over my time in farming many improvements have been made – drum mowers, mowers that condition the grass aiding drying and so on, cutting up to near 30ft – 9m – at a time, with the mowers both on the front and back of the tractor.

Then the field was left a couple of days to dry. Next came the turner, a machine with tines, that flipped the grass over, putting the grass that was underneath on top to dry. Depending on weather conditions and the heaviness of the crop, it was left a further day or two.

Then in came the tedder, another machine with many tines that tossed and spread the crop about, allowing further drying.

When the grass was completely dry the turner machine came back and the tines were adjusted to gather up and put the hay in lines ready for the baler – then small bales about 50 hay and 60 straw to the ton, now three big bales to the ton!

After the hay was baled it was stacked in the field in clusters of seven or so bales to protect it from the rain and mature before being picked up by hand and stacked on a trailer, before going to the barn to be unloaded, again by hand – hot and hard work.

Many people would help – often villagers would come after work, finishing off the evening with supper around our kitchen table. A truly harvest home!

If the wind was blowing, many a time you would see a whirlwind play across the field, disturbing the neat rows, sometimes even picking up the hay and dropping it some way off.

It was important the hay was properly dry before baling and storing in the barn, as if the crop isn’t really dry, early made hay can heat and combust. As with everything, experience counts in helping to avoid disaster! I remember my dad pushing his arm deep into the stack of bales to assess the temperature.

If the weather was catchy, the time needed for a dry spell could be difficult – many a good crop of hay was ruined or spoilt altogether if the weather changed. I can remember years when the weather turned wet, the land became too sticky for the tractors, which were only two-wheel drive, and the hay bales were marooned in the field and started to sprout a green tinge. This was

RESULTS FOR MAY 2023

& £176. 656 CULL SHEEP TO £158. 302 STIRKS STEERS TO £670 & HEIFERS TO £535. 120 DAIRY CATTLE TO £2400. 686 PIGS TO £265 & CULL SOWS TO £318. 1070 CALVES BULLS TO £455 HEIFERS TO £388.

FORNIGHTLY SALE OF REARED CALVES WEDNESDAY 14th JUNE FORTNIGHTLY SALE OF PIGS WEDNESDAY 21st JUNE MONTHLY SALE OF TB RESTRICED CATTLE MONDAY 19th JUNE

Frome Livestock Market, Standerwick, Somerset, BA11 2QB 01373 830033

also true in the corn fields when straw bales suffered wet conditions.

Silage making has made the making of food for the winter so much easier – very little hand work and only two or three days to make, from mowing to clamping the grass in the barn. Weather forecasting has improved so much that it is easier to plan field operations.

Meanwhile, Wincanton Young Farmers Club, our local club, recently attended the County Rally in Taunton, 23 clubs across Somerset competing.

Many areas of competition included stock judging and handicrafts.Wincanton won the Handicrafts Trophy and was placed in the stock judging categories, dairy, beef and sheep. Fifty members attended the rally and in the final count-up Wincanton was placed 3rd.

Wincanton has always been an active club with members from the farming and local community. It’s dear to our hearts, not only because its local to us, but also Paul and I attended and then our children.

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 9.30am-4.30pm.

FINDING THE WAY TO NET ZERO FARMING

The journey to net zero is hugely complex and finding the ‘road maps’ for individual farming businesses is not easy, according to Helen Browning, a farmer and Chief Executive of the Soil Association. Reporting from RASE’s ‘Farm of the Future: Net Zero in Practice’ event, the Cornish Mutual Future Farming Programme learns more.

This is the decade when farmers need to understand how to reach net zero, said Helen Browning. “We know farming can be a huge part of the solution rather than part of the problem.”

Helen believes establishing current levels of emissions is an important first step. A research study conducted on her own 1600-acre organic mixed farm revealed 70% of emissions were being sequestered leaving an additional 1000 tonnes of carbon per year to deal with in other ways. To do that, Helen estimated she would need to plant around 100km of hedgerow and an additional 100ha of woodland or agroforestry, representing about 15% of the farm.

One of the major challenges Helen faces is the methane produced from her 500-cow dairy unit. She is exploring the use

FINDING THE WAY TO NET ZERO FARMING

The journey to net zero is hugely complex and finding the ‘road maps’ for individual farming businesses is not easy, according to Helen Browning, a farmer and Chief Executive of the Soil Association. Reporting from RASE’s ‘Farm of the Future: Net Zero in Practice’ event, the Cornish Mutual Future Farming Programme learns more.

This is the decade when farmers need to understand how to reach net zero, said Helen Browning. “We know farming can be a huge part of the solution rather than part of the problem.”

of methane inhibitors, particularly natural options which are easier to use with a grazing herd, including willow and high tannin herbs in herbal leys. While some farmers consider selling carbon credits, Helen expressed caution. “I think there are some real pitfalls until we have established the rules of the game. The Soil Association Exchange is our contribution to this, and we have been working with several corporates to establish the right rules, but we need government to be involved too.”

Helen believes establishing current levels of emissions is an important first step. A research study conducted on her own 1600-acre organic mixed farm revealed 70% of emissions were being sequestered leaving an additional 1000 tonnes of carbon per year to deal with in other ways. To do that, Helen estimated she would need to plant around 100km of hedgerow and an additional 100ha of woodland or agroforestry, representing about 15% of the farm.

of methane to use in herbal Helen we Exchange several government The speakers blackmorevale.net

The Cornish Mutual Future Farming Programme reports on other speakers featured at the RASE event can be found at https://www. cornishmutual.co.uk/cmfuturefarming/

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NEED REHOMING from 13th June. Free to good home call 07738 371602 for more info

Petrol 1949-1950 model £3,500

Link Box to fit tractor £300 Lister stationary engine + 2 water pumps £350 15ft long, 6ft wide Double Axle Trailer with tailgate £900 Please call 01963 251614

Cote Farm Works, Kilmington, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 6RF

A superb residential grassland farm set in 108 acres

Shaftesbury: 1.4 miles, Gillingham: 4 miles, Sherborne and Bruton: 14 miles, Salisbury: 23 miles

Stoke Wake Guide £1,400,000

Stoke Wake

Stoke Wake Guide £1,400,000

Guide £1,400,000

Stoke Wake Guide £1,400,000

Stoke Wake Guide £1,400,000

Stoke Wake Guide £1,400,000

A particularly well-equipped small farm in a pleasant rural spot. 3 bedroom farmhouse (ag-tie) with impressive living room and kitchen, annexe, mobile home, substantial range of modern steel frame farm buildings, approx. 16,000 sq.ft, container converted for Air BnB, pond and pasture land. In total 21.87 acres (8.85 ha).

A particularly well-equipped small farm in a pleasant rural spot. 3 bedroom farmhouse (ag-tie) with impressive living room and kitchen, annexe, mobile home, substantial range of modern steel frame farm buildings, approx. 16,000 sq.ft, container converted for Air BnB, pond and pasture land. In total 21.87 acres (8.85 ha).

A particularly well-equipped small farm in a pleasant rural spot. 3 bedroom farmhouse (ag-tie) with impressive living room and kitchen, annexe, mobile home, substantial range of modern steel frame farm buildings, approx. 16,000 sq.ft, container converted for Air BnB, pond and pasture land. In total 21.87 acres (8.85 ha).

A particularly well-equipped small farm in a pleasant rural spot. 3 bedroom farmhouse (ag-tie) with impressive living room and kitchen, annexe, mobile home, substantial range of modern steel frame farm buildings, approx. 16,000 sq.ft, container converted for Air BnB, pond and pasture land. In total 21.87 acres (8.85 ha).

Fifehead St Quintin

Fifehead St Quintin Guide £1,100,000

Fifehead St Quintin Guide £1,100,000

Fifehead St Quintin Guide £1,100,000

Ashington Guide £900,000

Ashington Guide £900,000

Hall | Large kitchen/breakfast room | Drawing room | Dining room | 2 Sitting rooms | Office | Games room | Utility | Boot room and cellar

Fifehead St Quintin Guide £1,100,000

Guide £1,100,000

Fifehead St Quintin Guide £1,100,000

Ashington Guide £900,000

Ashington Guide £900,000

10 Bedrooms | EPC: F, CT Band: F | Attractive stable courtyard | 3-Bedroom cottage | One-bedroom flat Swimming pool | Tennis court | Stables | Manège | Range of farm buildings

Ashington Guide £900,000

Ashington Guide £900,000

A particularly well-equipped small farm in a pleasant rural spot. 3 bedroom farmhouse (ag-tie) with impressive living room and kitchen, annexe, mobile home, substantial range of modern steel frame farm buildings, approx. 16,000 sq.ft, container converted for Air BnB, pond and pasture land. In total 21.87 acres (8.85 ha).

A detached house, extended and reconfigured in 2017, and providing 3 character filled reception rooms and 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms. Triple car port with shower room, large lawned gardens with pergola, garden sheds and small stream on one boundary. In total 0.75 acres. Set in peaceful rural location.

EPC E; CTB E. Freehold.

A detached house, extended and reconfigured in 2017, and providing 3 character filled reception rooms and 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms. Triple car port with shower room, large lawned gardens with pergola, garden sheds and small stream on one boundary. In total 0.75 acres. Set in peaceful rural location. EPC F, CTB F, Freehold.

A particularly well-equipped small farm in a pleasant rural spot. 3 bedroom farmhouse (ag-tie) with impressive living room and kitchen, annexe, mobile home, substantial range of modern steel frame farm buildings, approx. 16,000 sq.ft, container converted for Air BnB, pond and pasture land. In total 21.87 acres (8.85 ha).

EPC E; CTB E. Freehold.

EPC E; CTB E. Freehold.

EPC E; CTB E. Freehold.

EPC E; CTB E. Freehold.

A detached house, extended and reconfigured in 2017, and providing 3 character filled reception rooms and 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms. Triple car port with shower room, large lawned gardens with pergola, garden sheds and small stream on one boundary. In total 0.75 acres. Set in peaceful rural location. EPC F, CTB F, Freehold.

A detached house, extended and reconfigured in 2017, and providing 3 character filled reception rooms and 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms. Triple car port with shower room, large lawned gardens with pergola, garden sheds and small stream on one boundary. In total 0.75 acres. Set in peaceful rural location.

A detached house, extended and reconfigured in 2017, and providing 3 character filled reception rooms and 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms. Triple car port with shower room, large lawned gardens with pergola, garden sheds and small stream on one boundary. In total 0.75 acres. Set in peaceful rural location. EPC F, CTB F, Freehold.

A stunning 17th century farmhouse with a wealth of character, charm and period features whilst blending modern decoration situated in a semi rural location but within a short drive to Wimborne. Includes 4/5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, paddock, home office/annexe, detached garage. EPC Exempt. CTB G. Freehold.

A stunning 17th century farmhouse with a wealth of character, charm and period features whilst blending modern decoration situated in a semi rural location but within a short drive to Wimborne. Includes 4/5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, paddock, home office/annexe, detached garage.

A detached house, extended and reconfigured in 2017, and providing 3 character filled reception rooms and 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms. Triple car port with shower room, large lawned gardens with pergola, garden sheds and small stream on one boundary. In total 0.75 acres. Set in peaceful rural location.

Gabriella Placidi Salisbury Office | 01722 344 023 gabriella.placidi@struttandparker.com

EPC F, CTB F, Freehold. Andrew Tuffin | 01258 472244

EPC E; CTB E. Freehold.

EPC F, CTB F, Freehold.

Andrew Tuffin Sturminster Newton Office | 01258 472 244 atuffin@symondsandsampson.co.uk

A stunning 17th century farmhouse with a wealth of character, charm and period features whilst blending modern decoration situated in a semi rural location but within a short drive to Wimborne. Includes 4/5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, paddock, home office/annexe, detached garage. EPC Exempt. CTB G. Freehold.

A stunning 17th century farmhouse with a wealth of character, charm and period features whilst blending modern decoration situated in a semi rural location but within a short drive to Wimborne. Includes 4/5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, paddock, home office/annexe, detached garage. EPC Exempt. CTB G. Freehold.

A stunning 17th century farmhouse with a wealth of character, charm and period features whilst blending modern decoration situated in a semi rural location but within a short drive to Wimborne. Includes 4/5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, paddock, home office/annexe, detached garage.

A stunning 17th century farmhouse with a wealth of character, charm and period features whilst blending modern decoration situated in a semi rural location but within a short drive to Wimborne. Includes 4/5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, paddock, home office/annexe, detached garage. EPC Exempt. CTB G.

EPC Exempt. CTB G. Freehold.

EPC Exempt. CTB G. Freehold.

Will Tremlett | 01258 473766 David Price | 01202 843190

SALES | LETTINGS | AUCTIONS | PLANNING | NEW HOMES

Beautiful railed paddocks and grassland | Strategically placed woodland and ponds | Impressive views over the Blackmore Vale and beyond About 108 acres (44 ha) in total symondsandsampson.co.uk struttandparker.com

2 bedroom annexe, 10 traditional brick stables, range of modern farm buildings, outdoor sand arena, level pasture land, oak parkland and a stream. In total 28.27 acres (11.44 ha). EPC F; CTB F. Freehold.

Freehold.

EPC F, CTB F, Freehold. Andrew Tuffin | 01258 472244

Andrew Tuffin | 01258 472244

JSA Simon Barker | 01935 812236

2 bedroom annexe, 10 traditional brick stables, range of modern farm buildings, outdoor sand arena, level pasture land, oak parkland and a stream. In total 28.27 acres (11.44 ha). EPC F; CTB F. Freehold.

Andrew Tuffin | 01258 472244

JSA Simon Barker | 01935 812236

2 bedroom annexe, 10 traditional brick stables, range of modern farm buildings, outdoor sand arena, level pasture land, oak parkland

Andrew Tuffin | 01258 472244

JSA Simon Barker | 01935 812236

2 bedroom annexe, 10 traditional brick stables, range of modern farm buildings, outdoor sand arena, level pasture land, oak parkland

Andrew Tuffin | 01258 472244

Will Tremlett | 01258 473766

David Price | 01202 843190

Andrew Tuffin | 01258 472244

JSA Simon Barker | 01935 812236

2 bedroom annexe, 10 traditional brick stables, range of modern farm buildings, outdoor sand arena, level pasture land, oak parkland

Andrew Tuffin | 01258 472244

JSA Simon Barker | 01935 812236

2 bedroom annexe, 10 traditional brick stables, range of modern farm buildings, outdoor sand arena, level pasture land, oak parkland

Andrew Tuffin | 01258 472244

JSA Simon Barker | 01935 812236

Nr Shaftesbury Guide Price £4,750,000

Property

Wylye, Wiltshire. POA

A superbly renovated mill house with beautiful grounds on the banks of the River Wylye. 4 Receptions, Large Kitchen/Breakfast Room, First floor Drawing Room, 5 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, in all 2.8 acres. EPC E

Ebbesbourne Wake, Wiltshire Guide Price £985,000

A stylish and immaculately presented modern country house with beautifully landscaped gardens and rural views. 2 Receptions, Kitchen/Dining Room, 4 Bedrooms, 3 Bath/Shower rooms, Garage, Charming gardens with terracing. EPC B

Sedgehill, Dorset. Guide Price £1,100,000

An impressive property of significant size and great potential to adapt or extend, situated in a rural location with over 5 acres of garden, field and far-reaching views.

Brixton Deverill, Wiltshire. Guide Price £745,000

A charming, extended 4 bed period cottage in a lovely rural village setting in the beautiful Deverill Valley with bags of character & offering good living space. EPC D

Dinton, Wiltshire. Guide Price £720,000

A superbly presented period home with character features, situated in a Nadder Valley village setting with a wonderful South facing garden, lovely views & a garden studio.

Donhead St Andrew, Wiltshire. Guide Price £625,000

A most attractive detached Listed 4 bed period cottage with wonderful gardens, outstanding rural views & a detached annexe with additional living/work accommodation. EPC Exempt

£695,000

£435,000 Horsington

A former chapel converted in the late 1960’s providing an individual character home with many features. Impressive hallway with double sided wood burner shared with the sitting room, kitchen/diner, three bedrooms, downstairs WC, attractive garden, garage and generous parking. EPC Rating E. Freehold.

Thinking of moving?

A three bedroom semi-detached house situated on a popular residential development. Light and airy sitting room, stylish kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite, sunny aspect garden and allocated parking. EPC Rating: C. Freehold.

BRUTON £225,000

Due to continued sales success we urgently require more properties to meet the demand from buyers looking for a home in Wincanton, Bruton, Mere, Stalbridge, Milborne Port and the surrounding villages. If you are considering bringing your property to the market we would be delighted to provide you with a free market assessment and valuation. Please call 01963 34000 to arrange an appointment or email wincanton@hambledon.net

fitted kitchen, private garden, garage and no forward chain. EPC Rating: C.

NEW INSTRUCTION

£280,000

WINCANTON £145,000

A wonderful opportunity

An attractive two bedroom mid terrace house situated in a small close on a mature development. Spacious sitting room, kitchen/diner, bathroom, easy to maintain garden, allocated parking, ideal investment or first time buy. EPC Rating: C.

WINCANTON 01963 34000

NEW INSTRUCTION

WINCANTON £226,500

Exceptionally well presented semi-detached house with solar PV panels with a battery storage system providing lower energy costs. Spacious kitchen/diner, sitting room, two double bedrooms, garden, views over fields, off road parking. EPC Rating: D. Freehold.

An exceptionally well presented three bedroom semi-detached house with stunning far reaching views over Wincanton and countryside beyond. Sitting room, stylish fitted kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite shower room, cloakroom, driveway and garage alongside property, landscaped garden. EPC Rating: C.

WINCANTON £179,950

A substantial four bedroom detached family home situated in an elevated position with far reaching panoramic views. Light and airy sitting room with bay window, large dining/family room opening to the kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite wet room. garden with a delightful terrace ideal for al fresco dining and entertaining. EPC Rating: C. Freehold.

Shaftesbury 01747 851151

A spacious two bedroom semi-detached house situated on a popular residential development. The property is presented in excellent order and enjoys the benefit of a car port, long driveway, enclosed garden, sitting room, fitted kitchen, conservatory and potential to extend (STPP). EPC Rating: D.

HAMLET LETTINGS

01963 34006

to purchase a building plot set in approximately 1.75 acres. Recent full planning permission (Application Number 22/00748/Ful) for a stunning single storey dwelling with stabling and paddock, delightful views, four bedrooms and generous parking.

Templecombe

£600,000 Wincanton

£250,000 Wincanton

Cucklington

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

UNIT TO RENT MILTON ABBAS

Non-domestic. Under 2000 square feet Milton Mills rural business unit, Milton Abbas. Ground floor. Available immediately. £250 pcm. Direct debit payable 1st of each month 01258 880675

WORKSHOP/OFFICE, SMALL INDUSTRIAL UNIT TO LET. 24hr access, 340+ sqft, well lit, please ring for further details07811 551161

Puzzle solutions (from pages 44-45)

Brain chain (hard)

Arrow words