The New Blackmore Vale Magazine - Issue 95

PERFORMANCES FROM 25th-28th JULY

COVENT GARDEN

COMPANY returns to HATCH HOUSE this July for

BALLET UNDER THE STARS 2024

We invite you to come and join us in the beautiful 17th Century walled Dutch garden at Hatch House to enjoy a spectacular evening of ballet and dance. The garden is covered for the event to create a magical dinner theatre. The company of internationally acclaimed dancers will perform three 30 minute sections of dance, each section between a dining interval. The walled garden theatre seats 430 guests each night, at tables of 10 (up to 12). Smaller parties, as well as single ticket holders, can be catered for.

Stroll, pre-show, through the gardens with cocktails in hand from the Café Folle. Then, surrounded by the scents of summer flora, you will be invited to take your seat at your table to enjoy the evening’s performances within the ancient walled garden.

After the performances have ended you can return to Café Folle to enjoy the evening further with friends, wine and dancing until carriages at 1am.

This is an unmissable highlight of the summer calendar.

TICKETS

START at £185 and include a ree Course Dinner with Wine and all performances.

Gardens open at 5.30pm, performance finishes at 11:30pm. Gardens close at 1am.

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The Royal Ballet’s Francesca Hayward and Marco Masciari performing at Hatch House 2023. Photography by Alice Pennefather.

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Rachelle

Flossie’s feat of desert endurance

A DORSET runner has completed the world’s toughest endurance race and raised over £12,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support – in memory of her mum.

This April, Flossie Dove (29), from Glanvilles Wotton, Sherborne, became part of the 0.001% of people who complete the Marathon Des Sables – one of the world’s

Flossie took on the challenge to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Last year her mum, Annie Dove (56), was diagnosed with an aggressive kidney cancer and sadly passed away just 10 weeks later.

Having received exceptional care at Dorchester Hospital, Macmillan Cancer

and the Weldmar Hospice was exceptional and I will always be so grateful to the incredible staff for all their support.”

While only aiming to complete not compete, Flossie placed 273rd / 850 runners and came 18th in her age category.

If you would like to add to Flossie’s sponsorship, please visit www.justgiving.

SAME DAY

Majority victory for Lib Dems in a shocking night for Conservatives

by Alex Loftus

THE Liberal Democrats have won a majority on Dorset Council.

Before the county took to the polls on Thursday, May 2, the Conservatives had 43 seats; a majority of two.

But in a dreadful night, the party now sits with just 30, losing control of the authority for the first time in 25 years.

The Lib Dems gained 13 councillors, giving the party an overall majority of one seat on the unitary council.

The Green Party lost a seat in Bridport to the Lib Dems, but pulled one back from the Tories in Lyme and Charmouth.

Here, Belinda Bawden won a thumping majority of 504, that’s 35%.

Labour retained its two seats in Portland, and Rodwell and Wyke.

Polling website Electoral Calculus predicts MPs, Richard Drax (Con, South Dorset), Chris Loder (Con, West Dorset) and Michael Tomlinson (Con, Mid Dorset and North Poole) will all lose their seats at the next general election.

The May 2 vote could serve as an important indicator of what’s to come in Dorset and around the country…

Total seats by Party

There were 82 seats available across 52 wards.

Liberal Democrat: 42 (+13)

Conservative: 30 (-13)

Green: 4

Independent: 4

Labour: 2

Other: 0

Beacon

2019 Winner: Conservative

Jane Somper (Con): 898

Claire Elizabeth Reed (Lib Dem): 307

Gillian Clare Cross (Labour): 133

Sheila Elizabeth Healy (Green): 125

Turnout: 38.32%

Blackmore Vale

2019 Winner: Conservative

Stephen Murcer (Con): 637

Ian Philip Suter (Lib Dem): 468

Victoria Elcoate (Green): 161

Turnout: 35.09%

Blandford (two seats)

2019 Winners: Conservative (both seats)

Byron Robert Quayle (Con): 1,334

Nocturin Bilbo Laffayette Lacey-Clarke

(Con): 1,307

Hugo Anthony Mieville (Lib Dem): 756

David Edwin Orton (Lib Dem): 556

Gerald Livsey Davies (Labour): 279

Dennis Wardleworth (Labour): 259

Lisa Grace Willis (Green): 123

Peter West (Green): 113

Daniel Paul Avery (Soc Dem): 50

Linda Isobel Stenner (Soc Dem): 31

Turnout: 31.29%

Chalk Valleys

2019 Winner: Conservative

Gillian Mary Haynes (Con): 683

John Martin Stephen Bennett (Labour): 186

Iain Douglas Young (Lib Dem): 554

Spoilt: 19

Turnout: 36.99%

Charminster

St Mary’s

2019 Winner: Liberal Democrat

David Taylor (Lib Dem): 892

Nigel Grant McCrea (Con): 483

Turnout: 34.57%

Colehill and Wimborne Minster East (two seats)

2019 Winner: Liberal Democrat (both seats)

Andrew Thomas Todd (Lib Dem): 1,275

Rajinder Kaur Atwal (Lib Dem): 1,168

Kevin David Johnson (Con): 940

Carol Lynda Butter (Con): 764

Pauline Emma Urquhart (Independent): 578

David Francis Moore (Labour): 215

Turnout: 36.72%

Cranborne and Alderholt

2019 Winner: Liberal Democrat

David Lawrence Tooke (Lib Dem): 678

Adrian Stuart Hibberd (Con): 508

Peter Thomas Parsons (Labour): 77

Turnout: 32.33%

Cranborne Chase

2019 Winner: Conservative

Piers Alexander David Brown (Con): 634

Louise Claire Cooper (Labour): 142

Tomos William Harding (Lib Dem): 194

Turnout: 30.24%

Crossways

2019 Winner: Liberal Democrat

Nicolas Jon Ireland (Lib Dem): 636

Andrew Harry Crawley RossSkinner (Con): 361

James George Draper (Labour): 113

Turnout: 37.41%

Dorchester East (two seats)

2019 Winner: Liberal Democrat (both seats)

Enid Stella Jones (Lib Dem): 1,337

Rory Major (Lib Dem): 979

Catherine Margaret Hebditch (Green): 825

Katharine Alexandra Jones (Ind): 571

Angus Henry Charles Christopher (Con): 329

Jacqueline Mina Hartley Bowater (Con): 322

Barry Thompson (Labour): 304

Arash Mottaghi (Labour): 208

Turnout: 38.54%

Dorchester Poundbury

2019 Winner: Liberal Democrat

Richard Martin Biggs (Lib Dem): 780

Peter Jonathon Stein (Con): 449

Nicholas Boothroyd (Labour): 122

Edward Leonard Herbert (Green): 93

Turnout: 41.38%

Dorchester

West (two seats)

2019 Winner: Lib Dem and Independent

Leslie David Fry (Independent): 1,335

Andrew James Canning (Lib Dem): 1,322

Claudia Sorin (Labour): 580

Jeremy Peel-Yates (Con): 261

Andrew Charles Wyatt (Labour): 259

Kevin Stuart Selby (Con): 254

Turnout: 34.06%

Gillingham (three seats)

2019 Winner: Conservative (three seats)

Valerie Rose Pothecary (Con): 1,549

Belinda Brenda Louise Ridout (Con): 1,528

Carl Anthony Woode (Lib Dem): 1,490

David Charles Thomas Fox (Lib Dem): 1,444

David Philip Louis Walsh (Con): 1,408

Cllr Nick Ireland is expected to be the new leader of Dorset Council

Alexander Richard Percy (Lib Dem): 1,402

Angela Carol Henshall (Green): 554

Anna Marie Marsh (Labour): 532 Turnout: 30.19%

Hill Forts and Upper Tarrants

2019 Winner: Conservative

Sherry Kay Jespersen (Con): 709

Joseph Roger Hickish (Lib Dem): 251

Alan Cross (Labour): 168

John Keith Yarwood (Green): 151 Turnout: 36.47%

Puddletown and Lower

Winterborne

2019 Winner: Conservative

Emma Jayne Parker (Con): 603

James Henry Lloyd (Lib Dem): 456

Helen Mary Badger (Labour): 243 Turnout: 30.74%

Shaftesbury Town (two seats)

2019 Winner: Liberal Democrat (both seats)

Derek Leslie Beer (Lib Dem): 1,403

Jack David John Jeanes (Lib Dem): 1,008

Virginia Rhiannon Edwyn-Jones (Con): 558

Andrew Reginald Hollingshead (Ind): 529

Barry William Von Clemens (Con): 269

Daniel Bavister (Labour): 233

Lester Mark Dibben (Independent): 187

Steven James Unwin (Patriots Alliance):

118

Lester Geoffrey Taylor (Patriots Alliance): 86 Turnout: 34.40%

Sherborne East

2019 Winner: Liberal Democrat

Jonathan Albert Andrews (Lib Dem): 838

Juliet May Pentolfe (Con): 502

Robert Sean Casey (Green): 103 Turnout: 38.76%

Sherborne Rural

2019 Winner: Liberal Democrat

Robin Andrew Shane Legg (Lib Dem): 916

Stephen Hillier (Con): 604 Turnout: 38.11%

Sherborne West

2019 Winner: Liberal Democrat

Richard Henry Geoffrey Crabb (Lib Dem): 575

Rebecca Burns (Con): 471

Anthony Kelton Martin (Independent): 264 Turnout: 34.69%

Stalbridge and Marnhull

2019 Winner: Conservative

James Charles Vitali (Con): 767

Rosalind Sheila Eveleigh (Lib Dem): 603

Richard George Harvey (Green): 133

Turnout: 34.46%

Stour and Allen Vale

2019 Winner: Conservative

Will Mapfumo Chakawhata (Lib Dem): 688

Robin David Cook (Con): 497

Maryanne Pike (Labour): 114 Turnout: 34.30%

Sturminster Newton

2019 Winner: Conservative

Carole Yvonne Jones (Con): 712

Kevin Nicholas Maitland-Gleed (Lib Dem): 267

Jennifer Daultrey (Labour): 85 Turnout: 30.81%

Winterborne North

2019 Winner: Conservative

Barrie George Cooper (Lib Dem): 663

Stephen John O’Connell (Con): 444

Haydn Roger White (Labour): 107 Turnout: 32.84%

Yetminster

2019 Winner: Conservative

Christopher Mark Wills Kippax (Lib Dem): 813

Diane Elizabeth Howell (Con): 752

Stuart Patrick Martin (Green): 139

Turnout: 42.08%

Tickets on sale for Nepal fundraiser

AN art talk and dinner at Dorset Art Weeks venue Dower House in Winterborne Houghton (DT11 0PG) will raise money to help marginalised children in Nepal.

Former Bryanston School student and England international cross-country runner Emily Shaw, who founded a Right2Run project in 2022 when she volunteered in Nepal, is organising the event. She will introduce the night with Right4Children’s founder Douglas Maclagan.

The event also includes a talk by art historian and head of History of Art at

Bryanston, Sarah Thomas, and a threecourse Nepali meal.

All proceeds from ticket sales and 10% of art sold on the night will go to Right4Children.

The event is on Friday, May 31, from 6.30pm. Tickets, available until May 21, are £45 from emilyannashaw@icloud.com. Right2Run uses sport and trail running coaching to increase school attendance.

It now employs a full-time trail running coach and works across six remote schools in the Pokhrah region of Nepal.

Church fete date

THE Church of St Mary Magdalene in Fifehead Magdalen will benefit from the proceeds of a summer fete being held later this month.

The 14th-century church faced running costs of just under £13,000 last year, and with fewer than 50 houses in the village it is difficult to fund.

The fete, this year on Sunday, May 26, at noon, at Middle Farm, Fifehead Magdalen (SP8 5RR), is the main fundraiser.

The event includes barbecue, bar, teas, raffle, tombola, plants, home produce, bric-a-brac and more.

Family Law Advice

Family Law Advice

Slow down!

SPEEDING drivers in Stalbridge could soon receive letters from the police as the community cracks down on the problem.

Stalbridge Town Council has responded to concerns over dangerous driving by setting up the Stalbridge Speedwatch group, in partnership with Dorset Police.

The force’s Community Speed Watch initiative (CSW) is a partnership initiative aimed at raising awareness and encouraging speed reduction.

The move will see town volunteers armed with speed guns out on Stalbridge streets to record the speeds of motorists.

“Reducing speed will directly contribute to help saving lives and will improve the quality of life for people within the county,” a police spokesperson said.

“It is an opportunity for you to get involved in making the roads safer where you live.”

The police said speed is a major factor in about a third of all traffic collisions.

We realise talking about divorce or separation is very personal and so we are offering virtual appointments by Zoom. As an alternative, we offer a one off FREE telephone appointment for initial advice on Wednesdays 9am – 1pm

We realise talking about divorce or separation is very personal and so we are offering appointments at our offices. For new clients seeking initial advice a FREE appointment can be booked on Wednesdays 9am – 1pm.

To book an appointment please call us on 01747 852377

To book an appointment please call us on 01747 852377

Offices in Shaftesbury – Sturminster Newton – Gillingham

Each year, in excess of 700 people die, and more than 4,500 are injured nationally as a result of speeding, one of the main contributory factors to road collisions.

How does the Speedwatch group work?

The council contacted the CSW liaison with suggested locations for using speed monitoring equipment in Stalbridge.

Dorset Police arranges risk assessment, volunteer vetting and site approval.

Stalbridge Town Council purchases equipment and Dorset Police trains volunteers.

The CSW team records how many vehicles exceeded the speed limit.

A warning letter is then sent by Dorset Police to the registered keeper.

How do I volunteer and what does it entail?

* the group needs a minimum of six volunteers

* full training is given

* the kit is provided

* the volunteers would be expected to do 2/3 hours per month

* the volunteers only volunteer in daylight hours

Anyone wanting to volunteer can fill out a form online at www. stalbridgetowncouncil.gov.uk/speedwatch.html

The closing date for expressing your interest in helping with the project is Tuesday, May 14.

Roads closed

ROADS in Gillingham, Sturminster Newton, Stalbridge and Dorchester will be among a host to be closed during repairs over the next two months.

Dorset Council has revealed a list of works set to take place throughout May and June on minor routes in the county, fixing uneven surfaces, sunken areas, potholes and cracking.

Repairs known as in-situ recycling are now set to be carried out, reusing the existing road materials.

Households and businesses affected are informed by letter in advance of the work, to be carried out by SPL Ltd.

The programme includes some weekend working but no working on Bank Holidays, the council said, with signs on site providing up-to-date information.

Due to the size of the machinery used, roads need to be closed for the work. Closures will be from 7am to 7pm.

When required, signed diversions will be in place.

Work is set to be carried out in the following Dorset roads:

• Lower Road, Stalbridge: May 10 to 14

• Parkgate, Stoke Wake: May 14 and 15

• B3143, Duntish, Dorchester: May 14 to 24

• Hole House Lane, Sturminster Newton: May 22 and 23

• Nyland Lane, Gillingham: May 23 and 24

• Church Lane, Margaret Marsh, Shaftesbury: May 24 to 28

• Church Road, Silton: May 28 to 30

• Huntingford Road, Gillingham: May 30 to June 1

• Cuckoo Hill, Yetminster: May 31 to June 4

• Barrowland Lane, Toller Porcorum: June 8 to 14

• Petersham Lane, Gaunt’s Common, Wimborne: June 24 and 25

• Horton Road, Wimborne: June 21 to 25

Mind help

A REPRESENTATIVE from Dorset Mind will be at an informal drop-in session at Shaftesbury Library on Monday, May 13, between 10am-noon.

The event is being held during Mental Health Awareness Week.

For more info, call the library on 01747 852256.

Career change?

AN exciting event promises opportunities to connect with local employers and seek career guidance and support.

Join the team from Yeovil Job Centre for the Sherborne Community Jobs Fair at The Digby Memorial Church Hall, on Wednesday, May 22, from 9am-10am.

The event will feature a diverse group of actively recruiting local employers, as well as career support organisations, offering a range of opportunities and resources to attendees.

Whether you’re looking for a career change, a new job, or want career guidance and support, this is a chance to meet employers face-to-face and showcase your skills. Come prepared with your CV and dress to impress!

Borneo or bust!

A DORCHESTER student needs to raise nearly £5,000 for an expedition to Borneo next year.

Oscar Clarke, who attends Thomas Hardye School, plans to travel to Borneo in 2025 with Camps International.

Oscar’s four-week expedition will focus on preserving biodiversity and protecting vulnerable habitats within developing communities in a rural district of Borneo

“I am looking forward to taking part in the project work to benefit the local community, seeing all the wildlife, interacting with the people in the community and learn about their culture,” said Oscar.

“Alongside doing odd jobs (gardening, car washing and dog walking) for donations from people in my village, I am rowing the width of Borneo (960 km) on an indoor rowing machine for sponsorship.

“I am rowing 5km a day, and should hit my target in about seven months. I feel this is a very relevant challenge as it will increase my fitness in preparation for the expedition and enable me to be more productive in the building and conservation work.

“I would be extremely grateful for any contribution you can make towards my fundraising.”

If you would like to donate to Oscar’s expedition fund, visit gofund.me/c0c13bfb or email oscarclarkey3@gmail.com

Climate voters campaign for change

ON the morning of Saturday, 27 April, volunteers with the Climate Vote campaign took their stall to South Street in Dorchester.

Over several hours they handed out posters and leaflets and spoke to passers-by about their climate change worries.

The campaign, which is running in the lead-up to the general election, aims to convince all political parties to do more to prevent climate catastrophe.

Volunteer, Philip Browne, said “Climate change is happening more quickly than experts originally thought but I fear many politicians haven’t grasped this fact.

“We want to show them that voters fear climate change will affect their children’s future. If politicians want our votes in the General Election, they must show more commitment and urgency in tackling it.”

The Climate Vote campaign is co-ordinated by Greenpeace and is non-party political. Anyone interested in finding out more about it should visit the Greenpeace website or contact the local volunteer group on 07732 116605.

Dorset embraces slow fashion

FASHIONISTAS across Dorset are celebrating the county’s farmers, fibre producers, makers and educators at Defashion Dorset, May 24-25.

This year, Defashion Dorset will welcome Lynne Franks OBE, renowned broadcaster and fashion PR consultant turned campaigner for women in enterprise, in discussion with members of Fashion Act Now.

A packed programme of events includes demonstrations of natural dyeing, lace making, and spinning. Panel discussions will include the latest research from HereWear (making fibre from seaweed), flax production and an opportunity to take part in a Fashion Assembly hosted by FAN.

Workshops will offer the chance to learn traditional skills of shibori, felting, knitting, crochet, Dorset button making and mending can be booked in advance.

Stalls showcasing fibre producers and makers include; BlueBarn Life, Tamarisk Farm, Woolcraft with Wensleydale, Snooks Farm Alpacas, Henry’s Buttons, Marina Skua, Made by Jules and Townhill Studio.

A stepping-stone to a local clothing culture is second hand and upcycled clothing which will be on sale from; Laura Basevi, Joanna Jacobs, Vintage Maid, Catherine Potter and Second to None.

There will be an exhibition, Adornment: creative uses of fibre, in which viewers will be inspired by imaginative ways to

embellish and rework existing clothing. There will be a programme of workshops for adults and children across Dorset Art Weeks (May 25 to June 9).

Defashion Dorset founder Jennifer Morisetti hosts gatherings and workshops at Hawker’s Re-Creatives to teach visible mending and embroidery.

Defashion Dorset will be held on May 24 and 25 at Hawker’s Farm, Stour Provost SP8 5LZ. Tickets cost £5; www. hawkersfarm.org

Book your COVID-19 vaccination

EVERYONE eligible is being encouraged to book their COVID-19 vaccination this spring and top-up their protection from the virus, as clinics open across Dorset.

This spring, people aged 75 and over by 30 June, older adult care home residents and immunosuppressed people aged six months and over are entitled to a free vaccination.

Eligibility for a spring vaccine dose is similar to previous years but those with a weakened immune system are now eligible from six months old instead of five years.

In Dorset there are more than 300,000 appointments available across the county until the end of June, with the majority at pharmacies, community hospital sites and GP practices.

You can book your appointment via the NHS National Booking Service, on

the NHS App, by ringing 119 or with your GP (if they are offering the vaccination).

If an appointment at your preferred location isn’t available, keep trying, because appointments are added to the booking system each week.

Some pharmacies accept walk-ins and additional community walk-in clinics will be popping-up across the county helping bring the vaccine out to those who may be isolated or less likely to get to a clinic on the high street.

A full list of Dorset clinic locations is available at www. dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/ covid-19-vaccination-service

Martin Sale, lead pharmacist for the vaccination service in Dorset, said:

“Your protection from COVID-19 fades over time, even if you have previously been vaccinated, so it’s

important for anyone aged 75 and over or with a weakened immune system to come forward for a spring vaccine.

“This will top-up your protection and help you avoid serious illness or hospitalisation.

“If you are unsure if you are eligible check the NHS website, and during your appointment a healthcare professional will talk you through it and make sure it’s right for you.”

If you or someone you know is housebound and waiting to hear from the NHS about the COVID-19 vaccination, NHS staff will be in touch to arrange your visit. You don’t need to get in touch unless you are concerned you may not be registered as housebound.

COVID-19 can still be very dangerous and even lifethreatening, particularly for older people and those with a weakened immune system. The

vaccine gives good protection and helps reduce the risk of serious illness or death, of catching and spreading the virus, and also protects against different variants.

UKHSA surveillance data on last year’s spring COVID-19 vaccination programme showed that those who received a vaccine were up to 50% less likely to be admitted to hospital with COVID-19 for three to four months after vaccination, compared to those who did not receive one.

On your marks…

RUNNERS are being invited to sign up for the 39th annual Tarrant Valley 10, also known as the TV10, being staged next month.

Tarrant Monkton and the Langton Arms pub will be welcoming runners, spectators and supporters to the event on Sunday, June 2, and a barbecue, ice-creams, teas, coffees and a raffle will be on offer.

Rogue Racer will chip time the adult 10km race through the Cranborne Chase countryside and the race will be followed by a children’s one-mile run.

Runners will be able to download online printable certificates and lots of photos will be available.

The not-for-profit TV10 is a dog-friendly run and this year is supporting Guide Dogs for the Blind and Weldmar Hospice.

Guide Dogs will be turning out in force, so the event will offer a good chance to find out more about the charity and the work it does.

The event will be giving out lots of prizes and a Guide Dogs representative will present them.

The starter whistle sounds at 10.30am in Tarrant Monkton (DT11 8RX) – for more details, visit the run’s website at TarrantValley10.org where runners can follow a link to enter.

Parachute wins prizes

PARACHUTE Tap Room, from Sherborne, landed a prize with one of its beers at Maltingsfest in Newton Abbot.

Its Ripcord SMaSH Pale Ale won a bronze award at the event, billed as the biggest festival of westcountry beers run by the Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA) South West. The single malt and single hop beer was entered into the Regional Keg Pale Ale category.

Parachute Tap Room & Bar is a locally owned independent brewery serving new era craft beer brewed on site.

It opened in July 2023 and now has eight of its own beers served on draught in Sherborne.

It is open from Wednesday to Sunday and stages events including quiz nights, pop-up food, live music and comedy nights.

New residents’ offer

At Bramley Care, we understand the significance of choosing the right care home, a decision that combines emotional, practical, and financial considerations. It’s a choice that impacts not just potential residents, but their families too. That’s why we are delighted to introduce an exclusive offer that may make this crucial decision a little easier.

For a limited time, we are offering up to £250 off per week for the first 12 weeks for new permanent residents. This special promotion is available across our respected group of care homes: The Old Rectory in Stalbridge, Bramley House in Mere, and Millbrook House in Child Okeford, each known for their dedicated staff, outstanding service, fine cuisine and warm community atmosphere.

Our homes have been setting the standard for highquality personal care and accommodation for decades. Nestled in beautiful, serene settings, our facilities offer a peaceful retreat with all the comforts of home, plus the added benefits of professional care and vibrant social life.

With this offer, new residents can enjoy our premium services starting from just £780.00 per week. We want you to experience

the Bramley Care difference: from our individualised care plans tailored to meet specific personal needs, to our array of activities designed to enrich every day. Our aim is not just to provide a place to live, but a real home from home within a vibrant community of likeminded people.

We recognise the financial commitment involved in moving to residential care. This discount is part of our commitment to ease this transition, allowing you to experience the best we have to offer at a more accessible price. We invite you to visit us, meet our team, and see for yourself why our residents are proud to call our Bramley Care homes their homes. It’s more than a place to stay it’s a home and a place to live well. Take the first step towards a fulfilling new chapter and get in touch.

Testimonials

Staff always work really hard for the residents. They are kind and compassionate all the time. Staff work hard to make life as happy and comfortable as possible for residents.

Son of Bramley House resident

My mother is receiving excellent care - good food, good company and very attentive staff.

I am delighted that my mother is very happy and enjoying the programme of activities.

Daughter of Millbrook House resident

Luxury residential care

Luxury residential care

Bramley House, Mere | Millbrook House, Child Okeford | The Old Rectory, Stalbridge Bramley Home Care, Shaftesbury and Sherborne

Open gardens

GARDENERS in the villages of Briantspuddle and Affpuddle will be opening their doors to visitors next month in aid of Briantspuddle village hall.

Some 15 gardens will open in the pretty and historic village of Briantspuddle, including Cruck Cottage and the Grade II listed village hall, and St Laurence Church in Affpuddle.

Other attractions at the event on Sunday, June 23, 10am-4pm, include a church flower festival, plant sales, a classic car collection, an exhibition by local artists, teas and lunches at Briantspuddle village hall and a bar.

Entry is £7 – children under 10 free – and free car parking is available.

Fleece fair celebrates local wool

THE Somerset Guild of Spinners, Weavers and Dyers will be celebrating local wool at its Fleece Fair at Hatch Beauchamp village hall next month.

The event will see local farmers and fibre producers sell a range of locally sourced wool and include spinning and weaving demonstrations.

A spokesperson for the guild said: “It’s a great opportunity to learn more about our rich local culture of fibre producers in our county and surrounding areas.”

Fleeces available include Alpaca, Exmerino, Gotland mix, Jacobs, Portland, Romney, Ryeland, Shetland, Soay, Zwartbles and more.

Admission to the Fleece Fair, on Saturday, June 15, from 9.30am-1.30pm, is free, and everyone is welcome to attend. Refreshments will be available.

The guild, a community of fibre enthusiasts dedicated to preserving and promoting the art of spinning, weaving and dyeing, was founded in 1949 and is one of the oldest guilds in the country.

The group meets once a month at Hatch Beachamp and provides community, resources, workshops and events to support enthusiasts of all skill levels.

Visit its website at somersetguildwsd.org.uk to find out more. Newcomers are always welcome.

Village school is ‘beacon of faith’

INSPECTORS who visited Motcombe Primary School have praised its “transformational impact”.

They praised its vision of “Faith and Friendship, Learning and Laughter” in their Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS) report.

“The vision is at the heart of the school and shines through in all the actions and decisions taken. It has a transformational impact on the community which it serves,” the report said.

The school is “highly inclusive and welcoming” and “the wellbeing of pupils and staff is given high priority by all”.

The report highlights the “calm, inclusive and nurturing learning community” the school provides, and praises the children who are ambassadors, role models and mentors for their peers and younger children.

Executive headteacher, Matt Barge, and head of school, Naomi Kendrick, said: “The whole Motcombe team is delighted with such a wonderful SIAMs report, that truly captures the essence of our school.”

Inspectors were also impressed by the curriculum and said: “Pupils are developing their understanding and knowledge of injustice in the wider world.

“Environmental stewardship is an important thread throughout the school.

“Pupils have been agents of change in successfully reducing the dependency on single-use plastic at lunchtime, and courageous advocates in raising awareness of the impact of deforestation”.

The report, produced following an inspection in March, concluded: “Motcombe is a shining example of how a village school can be a beacon

of faith, friendship, learning and laughter for the community which it serves.”

Motcombe Primary is part of the Sherborne Area Schools’ Trust (SAST).

Sarah Willoughby, who leads SAST’s work on the Church Schools Flourishing programme, said: “This report

The great outdoors

LOCALS and visitors alike are being invited to explore the great outdoors in the Dorchester Walking Festival starting tomorrow (Saturday, May 11).

The event, held during National Walking Month, includes 50 guided and self-guided walks for all ages and abilities over nine days.

Just some of the coastal, historical and nature walks are:

Coastal walks: May 13 – Ringstead Bay circular walk (12km); May 16 – Overcombe corner into Weymouth (2.2km); May 17 – Abbotsbury Circular walk from Hardy’s Monument (16km); May 18 – SW Coastal path walk to The Smugglers Inn (7km); May 18 – Hardy Monument Circular walk (11km).

Historical walks: May 11 – Tour of Poundbury (3km); May 12 – Thomas Hardy’s Footsteps (3km); May 13 – History of Kingston Maurward Walk (1.5km); May 17 – Victorian Dorchester (4km); May 18 – The Story of the Tolpudddle Martyrs (3km); May 19 – Crime and punishment, Dorchester (1km).

Nature walks: May 12 – Urban Trees of

Dorchester (3km); May 14 – Poundbury Nature Project Walk (4km); May 18 –Wildlife Wander at Hardy Monument (3km); May 19 – Nature, History, and Geology of Maiden Castle (4km).

Every day of the festival features either a Challenge Walk or Walk by Train, offering longer walks from 7km-16km.

The full programme is available from Dorchester Town Council’s offices at 19 North Street and the Tourist Information Point at Shire Hall Museum, High West Street, or can be downloaded at https:// discoverdorchester.co.uk/dorchesterwalking-festival/ Walks can be booked at www.eventbrite. com/cc/dorchester-walking-festival-2024

truly celebrates what it is to be a flourishing school, where all members of the local community thrive.

“This strong Christian ethos goes beyond Motcombe Primary School and is shared with our family of schools through genuine partnership and collaboration.”

Climate Cafe

SHERBORNE’S Climate Cafe is running a host of projects after being formed earlier this year.

The group’s diverse and growing band of residents seek to mitigate the impacts of global climate change on the town’s environment.

The group recently held a talk, Saving our Swifts, through urban biodiversity, given by the UK’s leading swift conservationist, Edward Mayer.

An audience of about 150 people went along to Digby Hall to hear it.

Other projects include encouraging motorists not to sit with their engines idling when stopped in town, monitoring air pollution and developing a Green Directory for local recycling information.

The group is also promoting the re-wilding of small green spaces and checking on sewage discharges into the River Yeo.

Anyone who would like to get involved, should contact climatecafesherborne@gmail.com

Bonjour! French fashions at Shirley Allum

THIS May at Shirley Allum Fashions & lingerie we are celebrating the classic and timeless style that is Mat De Misaine.

Mat De Misaine have been producing beautiful French clothes since 1989. Their ethos is to mix the charm of nautical themes that can easily be transferred to the city. Long sunny walks on the French West coast meet everyday living.

With Mat De Misaine it is all about natural materials, comfortable, relaxing styles with an edge of sophistication, in shades that echo the sea, skies and surrounding areas, easy to mix together or work with your existing pieces.

Come and view this wonderful collection yourselves and be inspired by our new season Mat De Misaine. This brand will be loved by you for years to come!

From Saturday the 11th of May to Saturday the 18th May, any customers purchasing Mat De Misaine will receive a FREE gift (while stocks last). Advertising Feature

with every Mat De Misaine purchase from 11th May - 18th May (Subject to Availability)

Civic pride

PHOTO: Marilyn Barber

CIVIC dignitaries from several towns and parishes attended a civic thanksgiving service at The Minster in Wimborne hosted by the town’s mayor, Councillor Diann March.

Local organisations, displaying their standards, took part in a short parade from Church House to The Minster.

The Rev Canon Andrew Rowland led the service, after which guests enjoyed tea, sandwiches and a slice of cake.

Wimborne Militia concluded the event with a cannon-firing competition.

A wealth of garden inspiration

AS gardeners watch the skies for signs of a break in the rain, gardens are opening to raise money for the National Garden Scheme.

Check www.ngs.org.uk for the most up-to-date details about opening times.

Edwardstowe

50-52 Bimport, Shaftesbury SP7 8BA

A lovely country garden, with densely planted borders, wonderful irises and magnolia trees.

Open Saturday June 1 and Sunday June 2 (10.30am-4.30pm). Admission £4, children free.

The Old Rectory

Manston, Sturminster Newton DT10 1EX. Beautifully restored, elegant five-acre garden. Wildflower meadow marked with mown paths. Climbing roses are a feature.

Open Sunday June 2 and Wednesday June 5 (2pm-5pm); £8, children free.

The Old Rectory

Pulham, Dorchester DT2 7EA

Four acres of formal and informal gardens surround this 18th-century rectory, with amazing views across the valley and 10 acres of woodland walks. Mostly wheelchair accessible.

Open Sunday June 2 and Thursday June 6 (2pm-5pm); £8, children free..

Philipston House

Winterborne Clenston, Blandford Forum DT11 0NR

Charming two-acre garden with lovely views of the Winterborne valley. Many unusual trees, rambling roses, wisteria, mixed borders and shrubs. Orchard with

mown paths planted with spring bulbs. Dogs welcome on leads. Wheelchair access is good providing it is dry.

Open Saturday June 8 (2pm-5.30pm); £5, children free.

Hanford School

Child Okeford, Blandford Forum DT11 8HN

Perhaps the only school in England with a working kitchen garden growing quantities of seasonal vegetables, fruit and flowers for the table. The children have their own garden plots, which they garden every Wednesday afternoon.

Open Sunday June 9 (2pm-4.30pm); £5, children free.

Semley Grange

Semley, Shaftesbury SP7 9AP

Herbaceous border, lawn and wildflower meadow intersected by paths and planted with numerous bulbs. A riot of colour, and a mix of traditional and Mediterranean styles.

Open Sunday June 23 (12pm-5pm); £5, children free.

The

Hollow Tower Hill, Iwerne Minster, Blandford Forum DT11 8NJ

Hillside cottage garden built on chalk, about a third of an acre with an interesting variety

of plants in borders that line the numerous sloping pathways. Water features for wildlife and well-placed seating areas to sit back and enjoy the views.

Open Saturday June 15, Sunday June 16, Wednesday June 19 (2pm-5pm); £4, children free.

Bembury Farm

Bembury Lane, Thornford DT9 6QF

This peaceful garden boasts lawns and large herbaceous borders informally planted with interesting perennials around unusual trees, shrubs and roses. Large collection of clematis and box hedging topiary.

Open Sunday June 30 and Wednesday July 3 (2pm-6pm); £8, children free.

Shillingstone House and Cherry Cottage

Shillingstone DT11 0SL: Both gardens are in the centre of this pretty village. The larger garden has some magnificent trees, traditional borders, old brick walls supporting multiple rambling roses and an old-fashioned walled kitchen. Nearby a cottage garden is packed with exotic plants and beds of perennials and annuals. Wheelchair access to Shillingstone House garden only.

The joint opening will take place on Sunday June 9 (10am-4pm); combined admission £7, children free.

The Old School House and Penmead Farm

Sutton Waldron, Blandford Forum

The Old School House (DT11 8NZ) is a village garden with hornbeam hedges and semi-tender plants close to the house.

Open Sunday June 9 (2pm-6pm) and Thursday June 13 (1pm-6pm); £5, children free.

Penmead Farm (DT11 8PF) is on the site of an old brick works and bordered by over 30 mature oak trees. Woodland and stream (Fontmell Brook) walk, and views to Pen Hill and Fontmell Down.

Open Sunday June 9 (2.30pm-6.30pm) and Thursday June 13 (3.30pm-7.30pm); £5, children free.

Bembury Farm

The Hollow

Hanford School

Philipston House

The Old Rectory, Pulham

The Old Rectory, Manston

Hole in one for Autism Unlimited

GOLFERS are invited to take part in a charity competition at The Ashley Wood Golf Club in Blandford Forum, to raise funds for Autism Unlimited.

The Golf Day, on Friday, May 24, is being headed-up by Tim Paginton, who has selected Autism Unlimited as his charity for 2024, during his year as club captain.

Tim said: “With autism in our family, supporting the neurodiverse community is something my whole family is passionate about.

“So, when it came to choosing a charity to support, I immediately thought of Autism Unlimited.”

Autism Unlimited, based in Christchurch, provides support through education, training and life skills for children and young people across the region.

players.

“Select Interiors Ltd generously came on as main sponsor and some fantastic raffle prizes have been donated from other clubs and local businesses.

“Now, we want to sign up as many teams as possible to come along, have a great day of golf and raise even more money for this brilliant cause.”

Tim is looking for a minimum of 20 teams, which can be made up of family members, friends, workmates and corporate groups.

Players do not have to be members of the club.

meal at the end.

“We also have a few holes still available for sponsorship from as little as £50, plus prize challenges during the day, including Beat the Pro and Nearest the Pin,” said Tim.

The closing date for entries is Friday, May 17.

Carol Borwick, fundraising manager for Autism Unlimited, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Tim, his family and everyone at The Ashley Wood Golf Club for their support and generosity.

“The money raised by this fun event will help us to continue providing quality education, care and support for people living with autism.”

“I am thrilled to be running this and there is overwhelming support from the club and its

Tim added: “Carol, the charity’s fundraising manager, and I met to discuss raising funds and we agreed holding a golf day would be a great way to raise funds.

Teams will be ideally made up of four people, although pairs are also welcome.

Club members pay £40, non-members £55, and this includes their round of golf, plus a hot drink and bacon roll before play and a one-course

For more information on the golf day and to sign up, complete the booking form at https://tinyurl.com/mryk9p67 or contact Carol Borwick on 01202 483360 or email carol. borwick@autism-unlimited.org

Musical moments

PUPILS at Mere School hit the high notes when they staged a musical extravaganza for parents, staff, governors and the wider community.

The event featured something for everyone from piano playing to violin, epic drum solos to vocal duets, across a range of musical styles including classical, musical theatre, pop and rock.

Beginner students demonstrated their potential and older students showed off their abilities.

Mrs Jennings said she would like to thank all the pupils who performed and everyone who went along to support them.

Shield your home from Care Costs & Inheritance Tax with a Living Trust.

A Living Trust, is a legal arrangement that allows you to protect your assets, including your home, from care costs along with 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. Reversable Nature:

One of the advantages of a living trust is that it is reversable, meaning you can make changes to the trust or remove your home from the trust 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 alongside one to three other trustees. Thus, maintaining control over the assets and allowing you to continue using and managing them as you did before. Surviving trustees 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

Our loose Canon

Remembering Frank Field, a person of principle and independent mind

by Canon Eric Woods

I FIRST met Frank Field in about 1973. That was six years before he became MP for Birkenhead, a seat he held for 40 years. In 1972, immediately after Oxford, I had joined the staff of SHELTER, the National Campaign for the Homeless, as Regional Organiser for Kent and Sussex. Frank, the Director of the Child Poverty Action Group, was a Trustee, and frequently visited our offices. He died, as Lord Field of Birkenhead, on St George’s Day last month.

To an idealistic young man, as I was then, Frank Field was an inspiration. A devout Anglican, everything he did was inspired by his Christian faith. He refused to be stereotyped – he was, within the Labour Party and beyond, very much a “loose cannon”, who always tried to tell the truth as he saw it, and refused to toe any party line for the sake of preferment or promotion. He was described in one obituary as “ascetic, proud, obstinate and principled, a loner who did not have many close friends”. But one, surprisingly, was Margaret Thatcher. They were both from modest backgrounds and were products of the grammar school system. They shared a firm belief in self-improvement and self-reliance. They both believed more in helping the poor to help themselves,

rather than rely on the welfare state. Frank never ceased to insist that the downside of the welfare state was that it degraded the poor by creating a benefits-dependent underclass. Yet his constituency of Birkenhead, ravaged by unemployment and myriad other social problems after the collapse of its docks and its shipyards, remained faithful to him until he resigned the Labour whip in the summer of 2018, in opposition to what he perceived as Jeremy Corbyn’s and his party’s toleration of antisemitism. He stood as an Independent in the 2019 General Election but lost his seat to a Corbynite supporter who has since been deselected for the next General Election. Frank was made a crossbench peer and, in 2022, a Companion of Honour.

Not long before he died of cancer, when he was still trying to get to the House of Lords in a wheelchair, Frank Field was interviewed at his London flat and asked whether he had a sense of achievement from his long life in politics. “No,” he said with feeling. “None at all! Thank goodness! I just think of the next thing. I fear the government’s going to be up to no good wrecking the Modern Slavery Act, which I played a part in bringing forward. So I will be fighting for that. And then I’m trying to do something about how on earth poor people are going to pay for their heating.” He paused for a breath. “It doesn’t stop,” he said.

How much government and political parties – just like the Church and so many of our institutions – need men and women of high principle and independent minds such as Frank Field. May he rest in peace and rise in glory.

Introducing Somerset Garden Water

Having relocated to the West Country a couple of months ago to join family, husband and wife team Nigel and Helen are bringing with them a unique offering for “All your garden water needs”

Established in the ‘home counties’ as Surrey Pools and Water, we are establishing another arm as Somerset Garden Water to serve the West Country.

A family run business, SPW (Surrey) will remain headed by the couple’s daughter and son in law, whilst bringing Nigel’s extensive experience within the domestic and commercial water industry to the South West.

Nigel is a member of ISPE the Institute of Swimming Pool Engineers and also a qualified electrician - offering a complete package.

As a small family run concern we offer tailored and bespoke solutions for all your garden water requirements.

Working on small or larger projects, we can assist the client direct or integrate with landscapers, architects and gardeners where needed.

With our extensive in house knowledge we are able to work with both Natural and Traditional swimming pools.

• Hot Tub & Swimming Pool

• Water Features/ Fountains

• Irrigation installation and maintenance

• Chemical Control

• Supply and installation filtration.

• Heat Pumps

• Lining Systems

• Coping Stones

• Pool Covers and Electrics

• All aspects of tiling

• Qualified Electrician

• Plumbing

• Checkatrade Approved - SPW

• Introductory Offer - Swimming Pool Spring Commission £ 119.00 including Chemicals**

• Hot Tub Commission - £ 89.00 including Chemicals

• **This offer is based on the first visit onlyany further visits for higher maintenance start ups will be charged at a normal service rate plus chemicals as required**

Summer Fair at Bryanston

The Wessex Event Company are delighted to be holding our 3rd Summer Fair in the beautiful house and grounds at Bryanston School on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th May this year

Bring the whole family for a fabulous day out, there is something for everyone.

After being inspired by the host of artisan foods, crafts, plants, garden furniture and accessories, why not chill out in our two Street Food Areas, where you can enjoy mid morning snacks, lunches and afternoon treats, including Pizzas, Bratwurst, Falafels, Dorset Lamb burgers, Hot Potatoes, Ice Cream, Churros and Crepes, all washed down with coffee, tea, soft drinks or something slightly stronger from the fairs Bar. While you sit and eat and relax you will be entertained by fabulous local artists including Emma Hardy, Max Elmore, Tom Carr, Shannon White, and Phil Smith.

NEW THIS YEAR

Climbing Tower, caving tunnel, Alpaca Walking and meet Disney Princesses and Superheroes

There will also be the ever popular flower arranging demonstrations, with the chance to win a beautiful flower arrangement, falconry and classic cars

There is so much for children to enjoy. Our children’s entertainments will include a bouncy castle, rides, games and face painting. We also have a Circus Skills Workshop, Magic Man, Sand Art and Craft Area on both days for children to participate in and learn some of magic of the circus.,

The cost of entry is just £4 for Adults, £3.50 for concessions, with children under 16 just £1, making this one of the most affordable, family friendly, value for money days out you will find in the area this summer.

So come early, stay late and enjoy a wonderful day out in the most beautiful of settings.

We would like to thank our sponsors Nationwide Home Innovations, Save Energy UK, Meyers Estate Agents Blandford, and Holt Recruitment for their support of our events.

Dorset Art Weeks 25 May - 9 June

Discover Dorset’s creative community, featuring contemporary work from over 500 artists and makers exhibiting in open studios, group shows, galleries and events. This biennial event organised by Dorset Visual Arts features 266 venues across the county and is a great way to see some art and craft whilst exploring the beautiful regions of Dorset. Dorset Art Weeks is the perfect opportunity to make unexpected discoveries and experience firsthand the practice and process behind many talented visual artists and makers. This year’s event also marks the opening of The Sherborne (Venue 1), Dorset’s major new venue for the arts, where Dorset Visual Arts is the lead arts partner. The Instinct of Hope exhibition at Durlston Country Park sees work featuring Dorset artists responding to the Climate and Ecological Emergency (Venue 173). The sponsors of Dorset Art Weeks, Hall & Woodhouse have pubs across the county and are perfect places to take a break on your day out visiting some of the art venues.

Copies of the free Dorset Art Weeks Guide 2024 can be picked up at cultural venues across Wessex. Browse the Guide and discover a wide range of art using the maps to plan the perfect day out. You can also access all the information on the website, and the free Dorset Art Weeks App. dorsetartweeks.co.uk

TRUST BROADVIEW TO CREATE THE WOW FACTOR IN YOUR HOME

TRUST BROADVIEW TO CREATE THE WOW FACTOR IN YOUR HOME

As we look ahead to the warmer months, we’ll soon be turning our attention to our gardens and the prospect of spending more time outdoors.

As we look ahead to the warmer months, we’ll soon be turning our attention to our gardens and the prospect of spending more time outdoors.

Whether that’s simply relaxing or entertaining friends and family, our gardens are a focal point, particularly in the Spring and Summer months. What better way to make the most of your time outdoors, than by creating an outdoor living environment with Broadview thanks to their louvred roof pergola systems and garden awnings.

Whether that’s simply relaxing or entertaining friends and family, our gardens are a focal point, particularly in the Spring and Summer months.

What better way to make the most of your time outdoors, than by creating an outdoor living environment with Broadview thanks to their louvred roof pergola systems and garden awnings.

With one of the largest ranges of outdoor living systems in the South and manufactured by the Belgium based industry leading brand Brustor, every system from Broadview can be custom designed to fit your property.

With one of the largest ranges of outdoor living systems in the South and manufactured by the Belgium based industry leading brand Brustor, every system from Broadview can be custom designed to fit your property. Outdoor pergolas with rotating and retracting roofs operated by remote or app control, along with weatherproof side screens and heaters can effectively create an extra indoor room, outdoors!

Outdoor pergolas with rotating and retracting roofs operated by remote or app control, along with weatherproof side screens and heaters can effectively create an extra indoor room, outdoors!

Alongside of this, it’s not just the structure alone that Broadview can provide. Their specialist design-team work alongside a wide range of suppliers across the South who offer outdoor kitchens, hot tubs, fire pits and garden landscaping– all of which can help to create a stunning outdoor living environment that can be used all year round.

Alongside of this, it’s not just the structure alone that Broadview can provide. Their specialist design-team work alongside a wide range of suppliers across the South who offer outdoor kitchens, hot tubs, fire pits and garden landscaping– all of which can help to create a stunning outdoor living environment that can be used all year round.

No more leaving guests outside to entertain themselves while you nip back into the kitchen to prepare the next course or organise the next round of drinks, with an outdoor kitchen positioned within your new outdoor structure, you really can make the most of entertaining this year. What’s more, thanks to either sliding glass walls or integrated screens, the structure can be completely enclosed and with the great addition of heating and lighting, it can be used in all twelve months of the year. As the temperature drops, simply slide the glass shut and you can create a cosy and sheltered area within your garden, protected from the elements. Or, in warmer weather, all you need to do to make the most of the sunshine is

No more leaving guests outside to entertain themselves while you nip back into the kitchen to prepare the next course or organise the next round of drinks, with an outdoor kitchen positioned within your new outdoor structure, you really can make the most of entertaining this year. What’s more, thanks to either sliding glass walls or integrated screens, the structure can be completely enclosed and with the great addition of heating and lighting, it can be used in all twelve months of the year. As the temperature drops, simply slide the glass shut and you can create a cosy and sheltered area within your garden, protected from the elements. Or, in warmer weather, all you need to do to make the most of the sunshine is

open the roof and side screens for the perfect al-fresco space. As well as their range of pergolas, Broadview also offer fully cassetted retractable awnings that can be installed to your property for added shade.

open the roof and side screens for the perfect al-fresco space. As well as their range of pergolas, Broadview also offer fully cassetted retractable awnings that can be installed to your property for added shade.

Broadview has an extensive range of awning models to choose from, each with their own features and all can be operated by either Somfy remote control or a manual crank handle.

Broadview has an extensive range of awning models to choose from, each with their own features and all can be operated by either Somfy remote control or a manual crank handle.

Made with a beautifully crafted aluminium frame of superior quality and a weather-resistant fabric cover, the awnings provide stylish shading for your sunny patio. Available in any RAL colour and with the addition of LEDs and heating, Broadview has the perfect solution for you.

Made with a beautifully crafted aluminium frame of superior quality and a weather-resistant fabric cover, the awnings provide stylish shading for your sunny patio. Available in any RAL colour and with the addition of LEDs and heating, Broadview has the perfect solution for you.

And it’s not just Broadview’s range of outdoor shading solutions that can offer shield from the Summer’s sun and glare; they have an innovative range of internal window coverings from motorised blinds to plantation shutters and also specialise in solutions for large-shaped windows including apex and gable end windows, to roof lanterns.

And it’s not just Broadview’s range of outdoor shading solutions that can offer shield from the Summer’s sun and glare; they have an innovative range of internal window coverings from motorised blinds to plantation shutters and also specialise in solutions for large-shaped windows including apex and gable end windows, to roof lanterns.

Many homeowners think that their complex shaped windows prevent them from being covered with a blind, but worry not, you can still enjoy the beauty of an apex window with the coverage of a seamlessly fitted shade. Available in an endless range of colours and materials, along with robust, colour matching hardware and cutting-edge technology, Broadview’s bespoke blinds will allow ample natural light to flood into your home but offer shade when you need it. Now is the perfect time to give your indoor and outdoor space a makeover. Broadview Shading Solutions, a family run business based in Dorset, are celebrating 55 years in business this year.

Their expert team specialises in helping you to create the perfect shading solution for your home, from concept to completion. Contact our team today 01202 679012 or visit their website: www.broadview.co.uk

Many homeowners think that their complex shaped windows prevent them from being covered with a blind, but worry not, you can still enjoy the beauty of an apex window with the coverage of a seamlessly fitted shade. Available in an endless range of colours and materials, along with robust, colour matching hardware and cutting-edge technology, Broadview’s bespoke blinds will allow ample natural light to flood into your home but offer shade when you need it. Now is the perfect time to give your indoor and outdoor space a makeover. Broadview Shading Solutions, a family run business based in Dorset, are celebrating 55 years in business this year.

Their expert team specialises in helping you to create the perfect shading solution for your home, from concept to completion. Contact our team today 01202 679012 or visit their website: www.broadview.co.uk

Sign language tours at historic properties

THE National Trust has been running British Sign Language tours this week at Dorset author Thomas Hardy’s former homes to mark Deaf Awareness Week, which continues until Sunday (May 12).

A further tour will take place at his birthplace, Hardy’s Cottage, on Thursday, May 23, at 10am.

The property, built by his greatgrandfather, was where Hardy wrote Under the Greenwood Tree and Far From the Madding Crowd.

Elizabeth Flight, partnership and programming officer, said: “Thomas Hardy has such strong cultural associations for the people of Dorset.

Hardy’s Cottage in the spring.

PHOTO: National Trust/ Arnhel de Serra

“We are always looking for ways to improve accessibility and help as many people as possible enjoy the places where he lived and wrote.”

Further BSL tours will be held later in the year at TE Lawrence’s former home, Clouds Hill, on Wednesday, June 19, at 11am, and Hardy Monument, on Saturday, July 13, at noon.

To book a place on any of the tours, email Elizabeth at elizabeth.flight@nationaltrust. org.uk

Christian Aid

THE speaker at the annual ecumenical Christian Aid Week service at St Mary’s Church, Dorchester, this weekend is former Christian Aid staff member Rob Pearce.

Rob, who lives in Wimborne, worked for Christian Aid for 32 years, including a stint as regional director in the south west, before leaving the organisation in 2010.

The vicar, the Rev Jimmy Holden, will lead the service in the presence of the mayor, Councillor Alastair Chisholm.

The service in Dorchester is on Sunday (May 12) at 4pm.

Tony Boyden, chair of Dorchester and District Christian Aid, said Christian Aid Week gave people the chance to reflect on how global inequality can be reduced.

A street collection will be held in South Street, Dorchester, on Friday, May 17, from 9.30am-4.30pm and house-to-house collections will also be run.

Local projects encouraged to apply for funding

SWANS Trust in Shaftesbury is inviting applications for funds to support projects that benefit townsfolk and people in the surrounding area.

The trust is especially looking for projects which support young people and the environment, but is happy to consider bids outside those criteria.

Sums between £250 and £5,000 are available to successful schemes and matched contributions are welcome.

Proposals should be no more than 700 words and detail the benefits, and how after three years projects could be sustained without the trust’s support.

Excel spreadsheets can be included, as well as jpg-formatted pictures.

The closing date for applications is May 31, 2024, and shortlisted bidders will be invited to present to the trust in June/July.

Proposals should be emailed to pitch@ swanstrust.org.uk

The trust is also keen to look at applications for defibrillators, usually on a matched funding basis.

In the past the trust has supported the start-up of now familiar projects and groups such as TLW Dance Outreach and Student Programme, Shaftesbury Snowdrops, The Fringe, Blackmore Credit Union and Shaftesbury & District Dementia Society.

Swans Trust oversees the lease of Swan’s Yard and the small group of shops on the site of the old Southern Electricity Board depot, with entrances off High Street and Bell Street.

The yard is home to several craftspeople and artisan businesses, many of them start-ups.

Rural hardship

THE Blackmore Vale group of the Somerset and Dorset Family History Society is set to host a talk on An Artist’s View of 19th Century Rural Britain.

Felicity Herring will feature idyllic views of the countryside by artists such as Constable and Turner and in contrast illustrations of the hardship of living in rural Britain at the time.

There will also be information about health, education and working conditions in the 19th century.

The talk is at The Exchange in Sturminster Newton on Wednesday, May 15, at 7.30pm, and entry is £4. Hot and cold drinks will be available.

Dorset men enjoy ‘Annual Veast’

THE Society of Dorset Men held its annual county dinner at the George Albert Hotel, Evershot, near Dorchester.

This traditional event is commonly known as the ‘Annual Veast’ in the Dorset dialect and is the highlight of the society year.

It has been held for the past 118 years, firstly in London where the society started, and from the 1960s within the county.

Society president, Lord Fellowes of West Stafford, and his wife, Lady Emma Fellowes, attended, together with nearly 100 members and their guests.

The principal guests were Angus Campbell, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant for Dorset, and Mrs Campbell.

Everyone enjoyed dinner followed by the ceremony of the ‘Blue Vinny’ cheese with Anthony Harrison reading, in the Dorset dialect, a short verse which pays homage to the traditional Dorset cheese.

The cheese was paraded into the ballroom by the hotel chef, received and tasted in the traditional manner by the president, who then took a glass of whisky with the chef.

Once this short tradition was complete, the annual greetings of love and support for

the King and the royal family were sent in the Dorset dialect and read to everyone.

The most welcome reply was read by the president followed by the loyal toast.

The guest speaker, Lord Griffiths of Burry Port, spoke about his experience and his connection with Dorset through Portland stone being used in many buildings he had spent his past career in.

Special guests at the Society of Dorset Men’s annual county

He also gave a short history of the many different facets of his diplomatic career.

During the evening a raffle was held which raised £185 for foodbanks across the county which help needy members of the community.

The Hambro Challenge Cup, the society’s annual golf trophy, was awarded to Rob Bonnett for his outstanding performance at the annual golf match at Came Down golf course at Dorchester.

Chris Goodinge, society events organiser, arranged the evening in conjunction with the hotel, and master of ceremonies for the evening was Anthony Harrison, town crier of Dorchester, who conducted proceedings with humour and authority.

After an enjoyable evening, many guests stayed overnight at the hotel to enjoy a hearty breakfast before travelling home on Sunday morning.

Information about the society can be found on its website at www. societyofdorsetmen.co.uk

Swans Yard in Shaftesbury

dinner

Bryanston Prep School is set amongst its own 30 acres of rolling green countryside on the 400-acre Bryanston Estate in rural Dorset.

Having recently been awarded the prestigious title of Best Country Prep School in the UK by the acclaimed The Week Independent Schools Guide, we really do believe that education should not be limited to the classroom. We encourage independent learning, where children have the freedom to explore within the safety of our grounds.

At Bryanston Prep, your child joins a warm, dynamic extended family. They grow with us as we guide them to develop skills and confidence to embrace new academic interests and creative pursuits. With the support of our outstanding teaching staff, pupils are directed and guided, based on an understanding of each child’s learning disposition.

We are also both forward-thinking and outward-looking. Bryanston Prep lays the foundations for children to become adults with a social and moral compass in a society that needs creative inspired and unbounded thinking.

Kindness to, and cooperation with, all members of the school community, including pupils, parents, staff and our neighbours is of paramount importance: we help pupils become good, inclusive citizens with a sense of responsibility and respect for others.

Bryanston Prep isn’t your typical school; it’s a gateway to boundless possibilities. Come and experience it for yourself: we guarantee not only your child’s excitement but also a rekindled sense of wonder in you!

Ready to embark on this exciting educational journey? Join us for our Prep Discovery Morning on Friday 17 May at 9.30am. During the morning parents will be given a tour of the school while your children can enjoy forest school and pony grooming as well as art, sport and music workshops.

Register your attendance here - bryanston.co.uk/prep-school and we look forward to meeting you soon.

D-Day commemorations

THE courage and sacrifice of those who took part in the D-Day Landings in Normandy in the Second World War 80 years ago will be remembered in a series of events in Wimborne.

Wimborne

Minster Town Council has organised the events on Thursday, June 6, in partnership with the Minster, Wimborne Royal British Legion, Museum of East Dorset and other local groups.

crier Chris Brown followed by performances by The Land Girls –1940s-style duo, Andy Kennett – rock ‘n’ roll singer, local choirs and a reading of the winning entry from the National School Poetry competition, all on a stage at Willow Walk (next to Waitrose).

• Church service at the Minster at 5.30pm and bell ringing at 6.30pm.

Time to head outside

CERNE Sheep Group held its last indoor meeting in April when Hugh Chapman gave an illustrated talk about his experiences farming in the UK and abroad.

Members will be visiting Luccombe Hub, farm and school, at Milton Abbas (DT11 0BB) on Monday, May 13, at 6.30pm – note earlier than usual start time – for their next meeting. They will see the farm, its animals and the school. Park in the yard by the coffee shop.

• Readings of original poems by children in local schools as part of the National School Poetry Event at 11am.

• D-Day and Dorset presentation by local historian John Smith at Allendale House, East Dorset Heritage Trust (£6 admission).

• Wartime re-enactment performances by Wimborne Community Theatre at different times and locations in the town.

• From 3.50pm, a proclamation by town

• A procession from the town square led by the Quarterjacks marching band at 8.15pm to Wimborne Cemetery.

• An international tribute read by the town crier at Wimborne Cemetery at 9.15pm, followed by the lighting of the beacon, and ending with a cannon firing by Wimborne Militia.

For more information, contact Gary on 01202 881655 or email gary.mason@ wimborne.gov.uk

FULL FIBRE BROADBAND HAS LANDED

Sherborne Castle Country Fair and Rare Breeds Show is on Monday, May 27.

CERNE Sheep Group supports, educates and entertains about 30 local shepherds. New members are always welcome. The Group’s subscriptions are not unreasonable, and a nominal fee is charged for a one-off visit. Contact Jill Hole on 01929 459450 or jill_ hole@outlook.com

The Sherborne Castle Country Fair returns on Bank Holiday Monday

27th May.

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Set in the beautiful grounds of Sherborne Castle in Dorset, this local, much-loved event appeals to all ages. With main ring attractions, dragon boat racing on the lake, dog competitions, silent auction, rural crafts, rare breeds show, music, funfair, vintage vehicles, food and shopping there is something for everyone.

The event is organised entirely by volunteers and last year it raised an amazing £63,000 for children’s charities in Dorset and Somerset. The Fair itself has raised over £1.35M since it was first started in 1996 and over the years has supported over 100 local children’s charities.

Headlining in the main ring this year is the 3SIXTY Bicycle Display Team, and Gui Godt, the accomplished horseman and stunt rider – with a comedy twist!

Elsewhere there is plenty to see, do, watch ……or simply sit and have a picnic in the beautiful Castle grounds.

Entry in advance is £15 for an adult, £4 for a child (www.sherbornecountryfair.com/tickets/) – and of course all money raised from ticket sales goes directly to the charities that the Fair supports. So visitors can enjoy a lovely day out whilst also supporting charitable youth work in the local area.

Sherborne Castle Country Fair & Rare Breeds Show

Tiger tank display

THOUSANDS of visitors attended Tiger Day at The Tank Museum to see the world’s only running Tiger I tank in action.

The German Tiger 131 tank runs only twice a year on Tiger Day in April and September and attracts visitors from all over the world.

Museum curator David Willey said: “The Tiger 131 is the most famous tank in the museum’s collection and was an important prize when it was seized by the Allies in 1943.

“Over 80 years from its capture, the Tiger 131 is still fascinating crowds and playing an important role in telling the story of tanks and the people that served in them.”

Highlights of the day included a battle re-enactment and Second World War tank display, including fellow Hollywood film star Sherman Fury, in a unique demonstration of historic tanks.

The 4,500 visitors at the sell-out event were also able to get up close to the vehicles in the arena and see live artillery firing.

Seeds of success

by George Jeans

FONTHILL House garden opened in aid of Seeds for Success on Sunday April 28, raising £8,800.

The young people’s charity is based in Mere and Zeals and covers an area from Wilton to Mere.

It was a sunny afternoon; the hundreds of visitors enjoyed live music and refreshments, while browsing the stalls and walking around the fabulous gardens.

Want to enjoy two days of brilliant family entertainment in a beautiful countryside setting?

Want to enjoy two days of brilliant family entertainment in a beautiful countryside setting? Want to take your children somewhere that is FREE? Like to experience a whole day out as an adult for under £20. Here’s how!

Clear your diary for Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th June and book your advance lowprice tickets now for the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Spring Countryside Show. This celebration of the countryside takes place at the Turnpike Showground in Motcombe. It promises to be an amazing two days of attractions, rural activities and wonderful animals.

Dingle Fingle, a hilarious stunt clown will be up to comic capers in the main ring. Experience a crazy car chase as he tries to catch Slippery Sid and will you duck in time to miss the water canon?

It wouldn’t be a countryside show without star attraction animals. Cheer on your favourite pig as Joseph’s Amazing Racing Pigs honk into action. Horse fans will adore Amanda

Sandow’s famous Spotted Ponies, showcasing circus heritage. There’s also a Heavy Horse Village. Witness the intricate art of mane plaiting and the skill of harnessing these giants of the equestrian world.

Take a step back into time see the mechanical giants of agriculture with a stunning selection of working steam engines on display.

The countryside theme continues with farmyard animals and fun including free tractor trailer rides, sponsored by Friars Moor Livestock in Sturminster Newton plus digger fun for little ones. Why not have a go at some craft too? The ‘Hands On marquee offers a chance for kids of all ages to try felting and crown making plus much more.

There’s also gardening talks, plant stalls, live music, a fairground and delicious Dorset food and drinks. Free parking, dogs on lead welcome, mobility scooter hire available.

Visit www.springcountrysideshow.co.uk to book and find out more.

Lewis Barr joins LewisManning Hospice Care as a Trustee

Lewis Barr has joined Lewis-Manning Hospice Care as a Trustee.

Lewis, who is Frettens Solicitors’ Marketing & Commercial Director, is also a member of the Income Generation and Marketing Sub Committee (IGM) to the Board of Trustees at the hospice, advising on the charity’s income generation and marketing strategy.

Hospice CEO Clare Gallie said, “We offer a huge warm welcome to Lewis. He will be an invaluable member of our Board, bringing a wealth and depth of experience and knowledge to the role.

“He’s well-known and greatly respected as a marketeer in the region and we look forward to learning from him, particularly with his speciality as a digital marketeer with experience across a variety of sectors. Lewis said, “I am hugely excited to be joining the

hospice in this role and to be supporting them using my marketing skills, experience and insight.

“The hospice does brilliant work supporting patients and their families with life limiting illnesses across East Dorset, Purbeck and West Hampshire and it’s brilliant to now be a part of their team.”

Talk sheds light on joint issues

A GROUP of “golden oldies” in Yeovil has been hearing how medical teams at the town’s hospital are working to reduce waiting times for orthopaedic surgery and offer patients a greater choice.

Matthew Hall, consultant orthopaedic surgeon and clinical director for Orthopaedics and The Kingston Wing at Yeovil Hospital, was speaking to the “Brympton Golden Oldies” coffee morning at Abbey Manor Community Centre.

Matthew explained how innovative ways of working – including the recent introduction of day care surgery for hip and knee replacements – are benefiting patients.

Yeovil Hospital also offers the option of private surgery, through The Kingston Wing, with all profits going back into the NHS.

Many of the 6.5 million people currently on the NHS waiting list are waiting for hip and knee replacements.

A recent report from the Institute of Fiscal Studies said that, while the waiting list is beginning to fall, it is unlikely to get back to pre-pandemic levels until 2029. It has prompted an increase in the number of

people going abroad for surgery.

Matthew said: “Of course people with chronic hip and knee pain want to get an operation quickly but it is also extremely important that they go to the right place at the right time.

“Often, it can be daunting for elderly patients with joint pain to know how and when to seek help and what options are available to them to improve their quality of life in the future.

“I hope that my talk helped shed some light on some of these queries.”

He added: “In the Kingston Wing we have a philosophy of ‘private experience with NHS peace of mind’ and we think that is what sets us apart from other private hospitals.”

His presentation to the “golden oldies” – about 65 of them –was well received.

One of the organisers of the

coffee morning, Robert Brooks, 82, from Brympton, said: “Matthew’s presentation was both interesting and informative, delivered as it was, with passion, humour and understanding to a group of people who were concentrating attentively throughout.

“It was a testament to its relevance, and Matthew’s empathy with the group of 60-plus in attendance”.

Ian Schafer, 75, from Yeovil, said: “I thought it was very informative. Now I know what the process is and how simple it is, it has reassured me that if I did have to go into hospital, I would be in good hands.”

Leisure Club memberships from £59 per month

Regular classes

Indoor

Steam

Corporate

Pamper

The Garden Café

Situated within The Club, an ideal place to relax with family and friends whilst enjoying a selection of drinks, barista coffees, home baked cakes

Consultant Matthew Hall with “golden oldies” at a coffee morning in Yeovil

Bird’s eye view

VISITORS will be able to get a view of the Wiltshire countryside from on high when Bath, Wilts and North Dorset Gliding Club holds an open day later this month.

They will be able to take a trial flight, handle the aircraft for a short while, learn about what keeps a glider in the air and how to achieve height and distance.

A spokesperson for the club said: “We are all keen pilots and for one day in the year we open our club to share with you our enthusiasm and joy for flying.

“Find out what can be achieved using nature – you will be surprised!”.

Members will show visitors the aircraft, explain the instrumentation and how parts of the glider work. They will also be on hand to answer questions and talk about the club and training procedures.

Teas, coffee and food will be available at the event at Kingston Deverill (BA12 7HF) on Sunday, May 26. To find out more, visit www.bwnd.co.uk

Medieval gardens

SHAFTESBURY Arts Centre is delighted to welcome Caroline Holmes to give a richly illustrated lecture on the history, beauty and symbolism of the medieval garden.

As a garden historian Caroline researches ancient, modern and contemporary gardens.

“Apart from contemporary prose and poetry, medieval illuminated manuscripts and tapestries are important reference

sources for medieval gardens and their plants. We explore their use and evolution in the period 410–1485: from monastic enclosure to royal hunting park and the desire for an earthly paradise both as a Christian and romantic metaphor.”

Wednesday, May 22 at 7.30pm at Shaftesbury Arts Centre. Call the box office on 01747 854321 (tickets £15) or visit www.shaftesburyartscentre. org.uk for more information.

Football All Stars pay tribute to Danny Wilson

FOOTBALL and family fun is on offer this weekend at Sherborne Town Football Club with a charity match in aid of Cancer Research UK and the club.

The match is in memory of ex-Sherborne Town player Danny Wilson who sadly lost his life to cancer five years ago.

The Sherborne Town ‘Danny Wilson All Stars’ will be playing the STYFC Skunks a side made up of managers, coaches and parents in Sunday’s (May 12) match, which kicks off at 4pm.

The family fun day gets underway at 2pm and includes football activities, a barbecue, licensed bar, music, bouncy castle, prize raffle, cake stand and more.

Sherborne Town Youth Club chair, John Taylor, said: “This is a great cause. STFC and STYFC are closely integrated and the chance to support this charity event is a project close to my heart.

“I’ll also stock up on a gallon of Deep Heat and some surgical trusses!”

Lee Davies, deputy chair of Sherborne Town Youth Club and events organiser, said: “This will be a great day with something for everyone, we look forward to welcoming all.”

Sponsorship and donations will be greatly received – for more information contact Lee at leed1000@live.co.uk

Enrich your retirement with the U3A

MEET members of the Shaftesbury & Gillingham u3a at the SP8 exhibition at Riversmeet Leisure Centre.

The u3a will have a stand at the event on May 18 from 10am-4pm.

You’ll discover new opportunities for using your retirement/leisure time at regular monthly meetings.

The u3a has more than 30 clubs, at which you can meet new friends and like-minded individuals who share your interests. Guest speakers and presentations enlighten on many topics. Gardening, crafting, languages and cosmology are just a few of those on offer.

Starring role for Kingston Lacy

KINGSTON Lacy in Dorset will feature in the first programme of a new series of BBC 2’s Hidden Treasures of the National Trust airing tonight (Friday, May 10).

The programme, which also features A la Ronde in Devon, looks at the work being carried out to conserve properties and objects, and the staff and volunteers who care for them.

At Kingston Lacy, a whole wall of

William John Bankes’ priceless art collection is in jeopardy, with a broken picture rail in danger of collapsing and sending Old Masters to the ground.

Outside in the grounds, the 2,000 year-old Philae Obelisk is in need of repair.

A 90-metre-high Egyptian souvenir from one of Bankes’s expeditions along the Nile, it took him several years to get it back to Kingston Lacy, where he installed it in pride of place in the gardens.

Megan Berrisford, collections and house manager, Kingston Lacy, said: “It was wonderful to be able to highlight the variety of collections projects we are carrying out every day –particularly our important repair of the picture rail in the Saloon which led to an exciting redisplay of the paintings, for the first time in 40 years.”

Stourhead in Wiltshire will also feature in the six-part series.

Get a flavour of delicious West Dorset

KEEN foodies will have the chance to discover local culinary tastes and treasures at the first Taste of West Dorset Market at Mapperton House and Gardens near Beaminster.

The celebration of local flavours, where the region’s finest food and drink artisans come together to showcase their passion for quality and authenticity, takes place on Saturday and Sunday, May 11-12.

From farm-fresh produce to artisanal cheeses, chocolate and breads, not forgetting local wines, beers and ciders, there will be something to tempt everyone’s tastebuds.

The market runs from 10am-4pm each day and admission is from £5 per person. The event supports Beaminster’s Prout Bridge Project. More information can be found at mapperton.com

Superb kitchens designed and installed for you

Visit our showrooms to view our kitchen displays

Shaftesbury: 01747 851 476

Longmead Industrial Estate, Shaftesbury SP7 8PL

Warminster: 01985 219 200 5 George Street, Warminster BA12 8QA

The Philae Obelisk at Kingston Lacy is need of repair PHOTO: National Trust

Experiencing the buzz

by Robbie Baird, North Dorset Beekeepers

A VERY long time ago, when there were only two TV channels and all programmes were in black and white, I still remember visiting my grandfather and being amazed that he could pick a honey bee off the cotoneaster plant in his garden and let it crawl over his hand – and it didn’t sting him!

He was a beekeeper and the source of all our honey in my early years. Fast forward several decades, and now I’m the beekeeper and I’m still as fascinated with the insect world as I was back then. I took the Beginners’ Course at North Dorset Beekeepers and I was hooked. It seems the more you learn about the honey bee, the more amazing they seem, and so you delve in a bit deeper and find that they’re even more amazing than you thought!

Do you ever watch insects visiting the flowers in your garden or window box, or pollinating your fruit trees, and wonder what they do and how they do it? What’s their life like and how to do they appear year after year? There’s no doubt our

insects are a vital part of the world around us. 80% of flowering plants in the temperate world, including Britain, rely on insect pollination for their own reproduction. And the insects themselves are a vital food source – you’ll have seen birds gathering insects to feed their young back in the nest.

Last summer, North Dorset Beekeepers ran a few “Bees & Beekeeping Experience” days, wondering if there were people interested to know more about the honey bee, even if their plans stopped short of becoming a beekeeper. They were a huge success and those who took part told us they had a really fun afternoon and discovered so much they didn’t know about the amazing honey bee. They’re being repeated this year on three Sunday afternoons in June, so if you missed them last year, now’s your chance to grab yourself a place at this year’s events.

The afternoon starts with a cuppa and biscuits as you meet your experienced beekeeper tutor. We’ll then hear a short introduction to the world of the honey bee, learning about its life, the queen bee, the workers and the drones. We’ll open an empty hive to see what’s inside, and we’ll learn how nectar becomes honey. Then, everyone will get into their beekeeper’s suit (provided) and we’ll walk down to the beehives. Once there, you’ll open one up and your tutor will explain what’s going on. You’ll see the stored nectar and pollen and the ripe honey, as well as the

bees in all stages of development from the egg to the adult bee. Maybe you’ll even find the queen! Once back in the hall, there will be tea/coffee and cakes – a vital part of the beekeeping craft – and you’ll have time to explore a other fascinating aspects of bees and beekeeping. You could have a look at bees under the microscope, learn about honey adulteration, take a “taste test”, explore the tools of the beekeeping trade, and learn about threats to the honey bee (like the Asian hornet, newly arrived on our shores). Finally, you’ll leave with a souvenir jar of local honey at the end of the afternoon.

If you’d like to take part, tickets are available at www.tickettailor.com/events/ northdorsetbka. Bookings are essential.

And by joining us on a Bees & Beekeeping Experience, you’ll also be helping us realise our big idea – to build a honey bee Centre that will become a regional focus for teaching and information, introducing even more people to the amazing world of the honey bee.

Why not come along and experience the buzz!

The wait is over. Properties at The Old Market Village

are now available to buy, and they are selling fast!

Set within generous grounds close to the Dorset countryside, The Old Market Village will feature state-of-the-art facilities designed to offer a full and varied retirement, including a spacious homeowners’ lounge, multi-function room, on-site bistro and well-maintained landscaped gardens.

Our properties are full of thoughtful features – so you can live in style and comfort, while feeling safe, secure and supported. Each property features clever designs and considerations that make life that little bit easier as you get older.

But it’s not just about the bricks and mortar. At The Old Market you will be entering a warm and welcoming community. We have a number of fantastic communal areas where you can spend

time with family and friends – old and new. You’ll be part of a vibrant community where neighbours soon become good friends.

The Old Market retirement village offers two Retirement Living PLUS options to choose from: •Market House, for over 70s, with a mix of 68 one and two-bedroom low-maintenance apartments. •The Old Market Gardens, for over 65s, offering a range of 32 stunning bungalows each with two double bedrooms. Ten of these will be threebedroom chalet style bungalows.

With high demand for our beautiful bungalows and apartments, now’s the perfect time to arrange an appointment with our friendly sales team where you can review property plans, prices and secure your perfect new home.

To find out more call 0800 153 3802 or search mccarthyandstone.co.uk/the-old-market-village

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UNIQUELY YOURS

Following an ambitious project to restore the proud heritage of this iconic Grade II listed 19th century building, Finch House has now been reborn to provide an exclusive selection of luxuriously stylish apartments, nestled in Salisbury’s rich history and within walking distance of the glorious Salisbury Cathedral.

In returning Finch House to its original Italianate grandeur, the building’s interior has been transformed to create a selection of exquisite one and two-bedroom apartments, each a highly individual blend of luxury and affordability. The completion of Finch House marks the final phase of Platinum Skies’ redevelopment of the wider Old Manor Hospital site into a vibrant community exclusively for those over 55.

Great care was taken during the restoration to safeguard its distinctive structural character and restore as many original features as possible. In keeping with this sentiment, one of the house’s most outstanding features – the iconic tower – is now part of the internal layout, lending character to three of the apartments. Among the wealth of period features at Finch House is a breathtaking atrium that fully spans two whole storeys of the house, complete with its own cascading feature light.

Outside, the building’s listed bronze fountain has also been restored. Dating back to the late 19th century, it is the work of French sculptor Leon Joseph Chavalliaud, and stands proudly as the main focal point at Finch House’s main entrance. The local landmark’s original glasshouse has also been restored, while landscaped grounds and a rose garden provide spaces for homeowners to enjoy.

Every stylish apartment has its own highly individual character, which is depicted by distinctive features such as full-height sash windows and tall ceilings. These beautiful period aspects present the feeling of light and

spaciousness. The overall impression is of understated, relaxed elegance that immediately puts you at ease.

Each apartment, with underfloor heating, fitted wardrobes, and high-specification kitchens and bathrooms, is the perfect blend of luxury and practicality. Owners need only to decide which unique home is the right match for them.

Sparkford, Ho! Yapp

Brothers to relocate from Mere

For over half a century, French-focused wine merchant Yapp Brothers has called Mere its home - initially operating out of Robin Yapp’s spacious garage before moving to picturesque Victorian warehouses in the town centre.

The company has outgrown the site and is therefore poised to move lock, stock and several barrels 15 miles west along the A303 to exciting, new premises in Sparkford - a 15-minute drive over the Somerset border.

Co-owner Jason Yapp is wistful about leaving the current site but says that “it is time to move on. It’s served us really well for many years, but we’ve undeniably outgrown the premises. There are things that are quite charming, but they’re very anachronistic. Victorian warehousing is quite pleasant to look at but not so pleasant to store wine and work in.”

This flagship retail space will showcase the best of their French-focused offerings, plus purpose-built tasting rooms will allow the hosting of wine events. With modern temperature-controlled cellars on site,

storage capacity will be trebled, large lorries can unload off-road and it will provide an improved working environment. The aim is to help Yapp Brothers deliver a broader range of wines and services at the best possible prices over the next decade or more.

Before they go, Yapp Brothers are hosting a ‘Big BinEnd Sale’ at their iconic Mere HQ from Thursday 23rd May – Saturday 25th May, 9.30-4.30pm. There will be discounted bottles available (including mature vintages), original artwork, wooden wine boxes, corkscrews and all manner of vinous paraphernalia (anyone for a full-size billiard table?).

Yapp Brothers Last Day in Mere - Friday 14th June Opens in Sparkford – Wednesday 19th June

Yapp Brothers, Unit 3A & 4, West 303, High Street, Sparkford BA22 7JQ

Big Bin Ends Sale Mere Clearance

Thursday 23rd – Saturday 25th May 9.30pm - 4.30pm

Before our imminent move to Sparkford (14th June), pop along to bag a bargain and help us clear the decks. We’ll have dozens of discounted bottles available (including mature vintages) plus other Yapp memorabilia from original artwork to wine boxes and all manner of paraphernalia in between. Don’t miss out – fill your racks with classic cuvées at one-off prices.

Please park in Mere’s Salisbury Street or Castle St Car Parks. No parking available on site. Due to the huge smorgasbord of bottles/vintages etc, we won’t have bottles open for tasting Bottles sold as seen.

GARAGE YARD SALE, Factory Hill, Bourton, SP8 5AY, Sat 11th & Sun 12th May.

LONG CASE CLOCK £250, long case clock £100 Tel: 01258-817268

HORSINGTON CLASSIC VEHICLE SHOW. Saturday 18th & 19th May. Higher Road A357. BA8 0EH

SOLAR POWERED POP-UP

DJ totally retro Ecotainment! Suitable for any occasion 07554-477889

CAR BOOT SALE FOR DORSET MAMMAL GROUP

charity. Monday 27th May, Pamphill Green, Wimborne BH21 4EE. 8am sellers, 9am buyers. Cars £5, car + trailer + vans £7. Refreshments available.

MAY 11th & 12th, 2024 FAMILY FUN in Bournemouth Town Centre! Mahogany

Carnival Design’s vibrant procession, nature activities, a petting farm, music fairs, workshops, street theatre, a music wonderland, Jamie Jambo, and creative workshops. All FREE — find us on www.aliceinspring.co.uk!

POUNDBURY INDEPENDENT MARKET

Sunday 12th May 10am-4pm. Follow the market trail across Poundbury from Queen Mother Square, through the park, down to Hessary street. 100+ stalls of fabulous artisan makers, bakers, and producers.

SHAFTESBURY EMPORIUM

Saturday 18 & 25 May

Friday 24 May - 9am - 4.30pm Shaftesbury Town Hall Lots of lovely items for sale under one roof. Supporting Weldmar Hospice and Dorset Somerset Air Ambulance FREE ENTRY

TURNPIKE CAR BOOT

Turnpike Showground, Motcombe, SP7 9PL

Sunday 12th May 8:30am onwards for sellers Cars £5, Vans and Trailers £10 9:30 onwards for buyers £2per vehicle. No booking required

FREE ENTRY

Dorset Vegan MegaMarket 10am-4pm Saturday and Sunday 18th and 19th May 2024. Main Entrance, Maumbury Rings, Dorchester, DT1 1TY email : wdveganevents@gmail.com

39th ANNUAL TARRANT

VALLEY 10 (TV10)

10km adult race from Tarrant Monkton (DT11 8RX) on Sunday, June 2, at 10.30am. Not-for-profit event in aid of Guide Dogs for the Blind and Weldmar Hospice. For more information and entry details, visit TarrantValley10.org.

SILTON PLANT SALE

Summer Bedding, Perennial & Herbaceous Plants

Vegetable Plants & Seedlings, House Plants

Produce & Bric-a-brac Stalls & Refreshments

Saturday 11th May 10a.m. to noon.

Silton Village Hall, Silton, Dorset SP8 5PN (signed from B3092 between Milton-on-Stour & Bourton)

LYN’S BINGO at Marnhull Royal British Legion on Monday Monday 13th Eyes down 7pm

ROCK N ROLL IS BACK. Tuesday 14th May, 2pm4pm. Vicarage School Room, Queen Street, Gillingham. Refreshments & Raffle

SHILLINGSTONE GARDENING CLUB

are holding their annual plant sale on19th May, 2.00pm -4.00pm. Cash only please.

In Aid of the Parish Churches of St Lukes and St Margarets GARDEN PARTY

SATURDAY 11TH MAY 2.30PM to 4.30pm at Vale Farm, West Orchard SP7 0LJ (follow the signs)

Stalls include Cake, Plants and Gift. Raffle and Tombola

Enjoy an Afternoon Tea while chatting to friends.

Offers of help and items for stalls much appreciated

Please call 01258 472893 or 01258472331

Integral Voice & Friends

invite you to a Springtime Musical Evening of Ballads, Love Songs and Classical Instrumentals at Leigh Village Hall on Saturday 18th May 7:30pm start in support of Cancer Research UK Bar, and light refreshments. Tickets £10 on the door - cash only or www.ticketsource.co.uk/leigh-village-hall

Farm Stour Provost, SP8 5LZ

Friday 24th & Saturday 25th May

and

Haynes Motor Museum to Host Highly Anticipated Autojumble Event

Haynes Motor Museum have announced the return of their popular Autojumble event, taking place on Saturday 15th June.

Located in Sparkford, Somerset, the internationally renowned Museum, synonymous with all things automotive is set to welcome enthusiasts from far and wide for their Autojumble.

Now in its second year, the Autojumble promises to be a haven for motoring aficionados offering a prime opportunity to buy and sell automobilia.

From sought-after car and motorcycle spares to rare vintage parts, magazines, manuals clothing and quirky collectables. There’s something to satisfy every automotive enthusiast’s craving. Located next to the museum, the large outdoor venue has space for up to 200 trade stands as well as food and drink outlets and a display of classic cars.

“We hosted our first Autojumble last year with great success and we’ve been asked when it will return ever since. So, we’re delighted to be able to finally announce the 2024 edition,” said Conference & Events Commercial Manager, Liv Fripp.

“As an internationally renowned motor Museum, the Autojumble is now a firm fixture in our events calendar and we’re keen to see what wonderful automotive gems will end up going on sale,” she added.

Tickets, which include parking cost £5 per person, if purchased in advance for entry from 9am. Trade stands cost £30 if booked before 1st June and £40 thereafter. They include a 5m x 5m space

and access from 6am to setup. The Museum are also offering a combo ticket which provides entry to both the Autojumble and Museum.

Founded as an independent registered charity by the successful automotive publisher, John Haynes OBE, Haynes Motor Museum has been the custodian of a unique and eclectic collection of vehicles since 1985.

The collection provides a fascinating insight into automotive history and science as well as highlighting the key role the car has played in society for more than a century.

Housed within 15 exhibition spaces, the Museum showcases more than 300 vehicles and automotive memorabilia. Its collection spans everything from the birth of motoring and nostalgic classics of the 50s and 60s, to glorious Bentleys and Rolls Royces.

The Autojumble is one of several regular events which take place at the now famous Haynes Breakfast Club on the first Sunday of the month. The popular car meet attracts an attendance of up to 600 vehicles and 2-3000 people who love looking at vehicles and talking with like-minded enthusiasts.

For more details and to book visit www.haynesmuseum.org/ autojumble

Huge showcase for artists and makers

MORE than 500 artists and makers will be showcasing their work during Dorset Art Weeks, starting later this month.

The event, held every other year, will also feature 266 venues, as well as exhibitions and activities.

Visitors can enjoy printmaking, painting, sculpture, drawing, ceramics, jewellery, wood, metalwork, glass and textiles, as well as

many other artforms and processes.

Dorset Visual Arts (DVA) produces Art Weeks and Hall & Woodhouse Pubs is the event’s lead sponsor.

As part of the event, a residency programme will support two emerging artists at the company’s Brewery Tap in Blandford Forum.

A new exhibition curated by DVA and featuring Dorset artists celebrates the county’s

biodiversity in partnership with Durlston Country Park National Nature Reserve.

And The Sherborne, Dorset’s major new venue for the arts, will be staging its Housework exhibition, which weaves together elements of Sherborne House’s past.

Information about each of the venues can be found in the Dorset Art Weeks Guide, available at cultural outlets across Wessex.

Art group’s pop-up gallery

LOCAL artists are planning two exhibitions in Broadstone this year with the first at their pop-up gallery venue at the youth centre in Moor Road starting later this month.

Visitors will be able to view the latest original works depicting styles from Figurative to Abstract and from the Observed to the Imagined,

including 3D pieces.

A special category of art influenced by music will also be featured and a variety of greeting cards will be available.

Prospective members of Broadstone Arts Society are welcome, as the group is recruiting new members.

Full venue details are also available on the Dorset Art Weeks website, along with an online flipbook of the guide and events calendar.

The Dorset Art Weeks app – search for Dorset Art Weeks on Google Play and the App Store – is ideal for navigating to venues, creating a favourites list or finding nearby venues.

Dorset Art Weeks runs from Saturday, May 25, to Sunday, June 9.

For more information about artists, exhibitions and membership, visit the society’s website at www. broadstoneartsociety.com

The exhibition runs from Saturday, May 24, to Sunday, June 2, and a second exhibition is planned in the autumn.

Sea Dance by Gill Faraway

Arts & Entertainment

Different worlds, but choirs have a shared passion...

TWINNING with a musical twist is on offer in Blandford Forum this spring Bank Holiday weekend.

The acclaimed New Tottenham Singers from London will join Dorset Voices, a choir drawn from local choral societies and vocal ensembles, for the occasion, for two performances.

The twinned choirs will perform The Dream Ticket, featuring two major choral works, Gabriel Fauré’s Requiem and John Rutter’s Gloria, alongside other music at Blandford Forum Parish Church on Saturday, May 25.

Members of the combined choirs will also lead a choral

Concert years in making

THE Wimborne-based Vivamente Voices choir is presenting its spring concert,

A W Ennes: "Martigues"

evensong at the church the next day, including John Stainer’s I Saw the Lord and a set of responses written by Tom Fowkes, musical director and founder of the New Tottenham Singers.

The London choir will bring a conductor equally at home in a West End theatre pit as on a concert stage or in the chancel of a church, along with 35 choristers and a wealth of musical talent.

Among them are internationally acclaimed organist Stephen Disley, formally of Southwark Cathedral, who will put Blandford Parish Church’s unique 18th century instrument

C’est la Vie Musicale, with guest choir Les Ségui’Singers, visiting from Cholet, France, tomorrow (Saturday, May 11).

The choirs will perform a selection of contemporary and traditional, well-known and less well-known compositions, in Wimborne Minster.

The concert finale will be a

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through its paces.

Blandford’s rich musical pedigree will be boosted by a professional brass and percussion ensemble sourced locally from the ranks of notable orchestras and other groups.

Tom Fowkes said: “It is genuinely exciting to bring so many voices together in this way, linking people and communities from very different places with a shared passion for this wonderful music.

Tom Fowkes and Stephen Disley

“I am looking forward to my first rehearsal with the joint choirs next month, especially with the knowledge that the Dorset audience will be out in force to hear our efforts on the night.”

joint performance of a popular classic which the choirs will have rehearsed together earlier in the day.

The visit of Les Ségui’Singers has been a much-anticipated event in both choirs’ calendars for several years.

A retiring collection will be

Shirley Bragg, founder of Dorset Voices, said: “Towns, gardens, and even toilets, have been twinned but, on this occasion, we’re thrilled that it is choirs that are working together. This is twinning with a musical twist.”

Revd. David Meil, Rural Dean of the Milton and Blandford Deanery, said: “We are hoping the whole weekend will be a festival of glorious choral music focused on the beautiful Georgian church at the heart of our Deanery.”

made for Vivamente Voices’ local charity for 2024, the Friends of Beaucroft, supporting Beaucroft Foundation School and College.

The concert is at 7.30pm – for further information and tickets visit www. vivamentevoices.co.uk.

Tunes follow in rich folk tradition

VIRTUOSO musicians who follow in the rich folk music traditions of Jewish Eastern Europe, Turkey and the Balkans are coming to Dorset for two performances.

The seven members of She’Koyokh, from Turkey, Serbia, Spain and the UK, play klezmer and traditional music from the Balkans and Turkey.

festivals such as Glastonbury, Cheltenham and WOMAD.

They have also been shortlisted twice for Best Group in the Songlines World Music Awards.

She’Koyokh – pictured – have enjoyed television appearances and live sessions on BBC Radio 3’s In Tune and World on 3, and performed at

She’Koyokh are performing at the Mowlem Theatre in Swanage on Saturday, May 25, and The Exchange in Sturminster Newton on Sunday, May 26, with Artsreach, Dorset’s touring arts charity. More information and tickets are available online at www. artsreach.co.uk

Archibald Thorburn: “Mallard in Snow”

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

• Benefice of St Bartholomew: Ascension Day, Thursday, May 9, 11am – Eucharist and refreshments on Win Green (St John’s, Charlton, if wet).

Sunday May 12, 9.30am –animal service, St Leonard’s, Semley. Bring your pet to church - or a photo if they are a touch anti-social! Refreshments and dog treats to follow.

• Blandford Methodist Church: Sundays – everyone is invited to services at 10.45am and to stay for refreshments.

Thursdays – coffee and a chat from 10am-noon. Fridays –lunch club for the over-55s from noon at £5 per meal. Phone Joyce Wild on 07817 505543 to book. The church is anxious to offer help to all those in need – call church steward John Cornish on 07799 516735 or leave a message.

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

• Chatty Café Scheme: Pear Tree Café, Half Moon Street, Sherborne, Mondays 2-3.45pm. Look for the table with the yellow sign, stay for five minutes or longer if you enjoy chatting!

• Cheap Street Church, Sherborne: Sherborne School Friday lunchtime recitals: May 10, Strings; May 17, Woodwind; May 24, Instrumental and Vocal Soloists; June 7, Pianists; June 14, The Choral Scholars. All at 1.45pm. Free admission (unless otherwise stated). Taize service – half an hour of prayer, meditation and music on the second Sunday of the month at 6.30pm. Everyone welcome.

• Friends of St James Church, Shaftesbury: Open gardens at Oaklands, East Orchard, Shaftesbury (SP7 0LQ), Sunday, May 12, noon-4pm. Entry, £5, includes soup and cheese lunch or afternoon tea.

• 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.

• Two Rivers Benefice: Sunday, May 12 – 9.30am Communion at St Mary’s Church, Blandford St Mary; 11am Communion at All Saints, Langton Long; 11am Family Service at All Saints Church, Tarrant Keynston. Sunday, May 19 – 9.30am Communion at St John The Baptist, Spetisbury; 9.30am Family Service at St Mary Church, Charlton Marshall; 11am Morning Worship at All Saints, Langton Long; 11am Communion at St Mary’s Church Tarrant Rushton. Coffee and cake – Spetisbury 10am11.30am first and third Monday each month; coffee and cake

– Blandford St Mary 10am11.30am May 16. Coffee stop

– Charlton Marshall Parish Centre 10.30am-12.30pm, Tuesday to Friday. Every Thursday, Morning Prayer by Zoom, 9am – contact Jane Griffin for more information.

• Lillington: All morning services at Lillington now begin at 9.30am.

• Longburton Village Café: Held in the village church of St James, the café provides tea, coffee – free refills – and great cakes for just £2. Tuesdays, May 7 and 21, from 10.30amnoon.

• Misterton Flower Festival: St Leonard’s Church, Church Lane, Misterton. The Church Flower Guild and the Ile Valley Flower Club present Around Our Town on Friday and Saturday, May 24-25, 10am4pm, and Sunday, May 26, noon-4pm. Teas, produce stall and raffle funds for the village hall and church.

• Our Lady’s RC Church, Marnhull: Mass Sunday, 9am and 6pm.

• Shaftesbury Quakers (Society of Friends): Meets for one hour each Sunday from 10.30am at the Quaker Meeting

House, Abbey Walk, Shaftesbury SP7 8BB.

• Sherborne Abbey: Monday to Saturday, 8.30am Morning Prayer; The Sepulchre Chapel. Mondays, 9am CW Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Tuesday, noon CW Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Wednesday, 10.30am Holy Communion with Homily; The Lady Chapel (alternates CW and BCP). Thursday, noon BCP Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Friday, 9am Ecumenical Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. First Friday of the month, 9am Requiem Holy Communion; The Sepulchre Chapel. Third Friday of the month, 11am Remembering the Fallen. Saturday, 9am CW Holy Communion; The Sepulchre Chapel.

• Sacred Heart, Tisbury, and All Saints’ Wardour Catholic Parish: Sunday Mass times –Sacred Heart, Tisbury 9am, coffee after Mass; All Saints’ Wardour 10.30am.

• Sandford Orcas village hall: Miranda Rutter – fiddle – and Rob Harbron – concertina –present a suite of folk tunes with birdsong at their core on Friday, May 10, at 7.30pm. Tickets www.wegottickets.com/ event/614294.

• 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. For more information, phone Nick on 07870 192599.

• Sherborne Girls’ lunchtime concert: Tuesday, May 21, 1.45pm, Cheap Street Church. Everyone welcome, free admission. Details from 01935 818212 or music@sherborne. com

• Sherborne Abbey: The Southampton City Ringers will be ringing the bells on Saturday, May 11, from noon.

• Sherborne Abbey Mothers’ Union: The next meeting is on Friday, May 24, at 10am for 10.30am in the Griffiths Room, Digby Memorial Church Hall.

Mothers’ Union activities –virtual babies and AFIA by Suzanne Waters, trustee and diocesan treasurer. Everyone welcome.

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

• St Gregory’s, Marnhull: Sunday services 8am and 10am. Other services, visit www. stgregorysmarnhull.org.uk.

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

• St Mary’s, Motcombe: Evening worship (BCP) – every first Sunday 6pm; parish communion – every second and fourth Sunday 9.30am; evening worship – every third Sunday 6pm.

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

• St Paul’s men’s breakfast: The Mermaid, Blackberry Lane, Sherborne, on Saturday, May 18, 9.30am, £9 – vegetarian option available. To book, phone 01935 816444 or email admin@spcsherborne.co.uk

• 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.

• St Nicholas Church, Henstridge: Avon & Somerset Constabulary Choir, Saturday, May 11, at 7.30pm. Phone: 01963 364063.

• West Camel Independent Methodists: Sunday worship at All Saints Church (BA22 7QB) on May 12, 19 and 26 at 6pm. Phone 01935 850838 or email Geoff.mead@yahoo.com.

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

Letters

Shortcut landed Squeak in slammer

I VERY much enjoyed Colonel Blashford-Snell’s article about the booby-trapped thunderbox, during his time in Cyprus – New Blackmore Vale, April 26.

I have an anecdote to add to it, in which yet another “Guards sergeant” comes to grief in a similar, if more basic, fashion.

This one was a definite “home goal”.

In 1959, a year after the Colonel’s explosive episode, I joined the First Battalion Grenadier Guards at its barracks in Tidworth.

Some of my fellow Guardsmen had served in Cyprus the previous year, and may even had been privy – so to speak – to the Colonel’s bombastic attack on the unfortunate sergeants.

As a former sergeant in the Grenadiers, I have to say I feel their pain.

One of my new comrades, who had indeed served in Cyprus the previous year, was a Guardsman named “Squeak Harris”, for reasons I could never fathom.

Squeak was a free-thinking individualist, and this did not sit well in a Regiment that functioned on tradition, pride and discipline.

And so our hero found himself awarded the honour of being in command of the latrines, an unpleasant and demeaning job.

The latrines consisted of a row of cubicles, each one housing a thunderbox.

This sat over a gulley which collected the waste matter, to be flushed out every so often.

This was done with water and followed by disinfectant.

Squeak, ever the individual, decided to be creative and thought he could shorten the process by using petrol and a match.

The petrol was duly poured and ignited.

Unfortunately, the far cubicle was at that moment occupied by a blissfully unaware sergeant, who was enjoying a lengthy,

and up to that point peaceful, “meditation”.

The first indication that all was not well was an ominous whoosh as the fiery trail streaked towards him, swiftly followed by an unexpected burst of warmth in his nether regions.

The first Squeak knew about it was when the end door was flung open, accompanied by a shriek of pain, followed by the unfortunate sergeant with his trousers round his ankles and his shirt tail on fire.

Squeak was subjected to an unsympathetic hearing and rewarded with a room all to himself – complete with an en suite bucket and bars across the window – where he was left to ponder the error of his ways.

1958 must have been a bad year in which to be a sergeant in Cyprus.

The Grenadiers, like all the Guards Regiments, have always prided themselves on being at the front in any action.

It seems to me that a bit of attention to the rear might have been in order.

Barry Reilly Motcombe

Going private twice the price

I HAVE been an NHS patient at a local dental practice for several years and believe it to be the best dental surgery in the area.

However, last year it stopped treating patients on the NHS and now only deals with patients as a private practice.

Last year, at my final NHS appointment, I was charged £25.80 for a routine 10-minute examination.

When I went for my next routine examination in March this year, which lasted just six minutes, I was charged £49, which equates to £490 an hour!

I have tried repeatedly, and unsuccessfully, to find another dental practice which will accept NHS patients.

It appears that dentists throughout the country are abandoning all their NHS patients and only offering services on a private basis.

Like all other taxpayers, I have helped to fund the NHS over the years, but it now seems we are being rejected to fund the greed of the dental profession.

Is anything being done about this? No – and why is the government not taking action to solve this serious problem?

Vulnerable pensioners and those on low incomes will just have to watch their teeth rot and decay if they cannot afford the exorbitant fees now being charged by dentists.

Robert Child Mere

Voting should be compulsory

IN response to John Vincent’s letter – New Blackmore Vale, April 12 – I agree that our democratic system is under severe stress and not suitable for the modern world, but I dispute his reasons for the failure, and I do not approve of the assumed remedies.

My understanding of democracy is “governance of the people by the people”.

I would draw attention to the referendum in 2011 in which two-thirds of the voters required the retention of the first past the post electoral system.

In my opinion a very convincing decision by the electorate.

The problem is clearly the fault of the powers above us who have pursued their own agenda and failed to bring the electoral system up to date.

The proportional representation solution proposed by many, places the elections in the hands of the major parties with their candidate lists and denies local democracy.

We have ended up with the ridiculous result in the Rochdale

by-election of an MP elected by 16% of the electorate, because over 50% of the electorate declined to vote.

Our ancestors fought and died for their freedom and right to express their voting preferences.

It is time to legislate to protect that freedom and introduce a compulsory voting system – with the registration and protection of those with conscientious objections. It is also time to bring in 50%+1 as the minimum for election, as is used elsewhere.

Colin Winder Wincanton

Wider parking spaces needed

I WOULD like to respond to Bob Bartlett’s letter “Parking Rage at Waitrose”, New Blackmore Vale, April 26.

In fairness to drivers of modern cars, the width of most parking spaces in the UK is about on average 2m 50cm – I have measured them in Waitrose, Tesco, Lidl, Aldi, The Original Factory Shop, Peacemarsh/Barn Medical Centres, National Trust and English Heritage, and not just in Gillingham.

I don’t feel this is an adequate amount of width.

The average width of a modern car – ignoring wing mirrors – ranges from about 1m 75cm to 1m 95cm, some wider, others less wide.

Drivers need at least 7080cm of clear space to open the car door and get out of the vehicle, so it is obvious that parking a modern car in a marked parking space of 2m 50cm is very tight, as drivers need at least about 2m 45cm to 2m 75cm to open one door safely and exit the vehicle.

I do not think that even then drivers can park and open driver and passenger doors simultaneously.

All this is, of course, exacerbated by poor quality,

inexact parking, where the neighbouring car parks right on the line or encroaches into a neighbouring parking space, thus consuming two parking spots.

Costco has come up with a clever solution at its stores around the UK, a hatched area of about 40cm each side of the 2m 50cm parking space, which alleviates the stress of “parking prettily” and allows driver and passenger to exit simultaneously.

Supermarkets or other businesses which did the same would have to reduce the number of parking spaces, probably by about 20%, making it an unpalatable financial decision with fewer customers able to park at peak times. So I suspect we will have to carry on “parking prettily” and taking care when we open the door, lest we bang it against the side of the car in the next parking space that has parked “not so prettily”!

Wider parking spaces are needed.

Nick Jones, Gillingham

‘Green’ group seeks members

BLANDFORD Museum

Sustainability Forum (BMSF) is looking for new members.

We are a local environmental group set up in early 2023 to work on events and projects with an environmental focus such as sustainability fairs, tree planting, rubbish collection and working to make Blandford a “plastic free” town.

BMSF also arranges craft and children’s events, lectures and discussions on environmental topics.

We are holding our flagship event, The Green Fair, at the Arches on Saturday, July 13, from noon-5pm.

If you are interested in environmental issues and would like to make a climate change difference to your local town, come along to our next meeting.

We are a friendly bunch who meet monthly at Blandford

Museum and the next meeting is on Friday, May 24, at 7pm.

Find us on Facebook at Blandford Museum Sustainability Forum.

Yvonne Wiacek Blandford Forum

Tax: A tale of two councils

CHRIS Loder contrasts the increase in council tax levied by Sherborne Town Council –19.5% by his calculation – with that of “the diligent Conservative administration on Dorset Council” since he became an MP in 2019 – New Blackmore Vale, April 12.

However, the increase in Dorset council tax and adult social care levy – set by Dorset Council – in the same period is 22.8%.

On that measure, the Lib Dem controlled Sherborne Town Council is performing very well and is presumably why no Conservative candidates are challenging for town council places this year.

Robin Legg Via email

Assisted dying: A widow writes...

CLAIRE Macdonald at My Death My Decision – New Blackmore Vale, April 12 – makes assisted dying seem so sensible, but, in reality, it negates years of wonderful relationships.

I was widowed 16 years ago, and although very happily remarried, I still think of my late wife every day.

A lady wrote last year about her husband dying after a long period of Alzheimer’s: “I thought I had done my grieving long before he died, but now I realise how wrong I was.

“Months later I’d give anything to have him back.”

I’m sure many other widows would say the same.

Obviously, there comes a time when you recognise the end is very near, but even then, there is humour and conversation, but also “do not

resuscitate”.

The time has come, and we all know it.

I am afraid forcing the issue can be very selfish and will usually aggravate years of love shared.

We want to look back on our time together and smile.

I wonder how many widows Ms Macdonald has talked with?

Ross Coad Zeals

Is abbey more dog friendly?

I HAVE just seen something never seen before outside Sherborne Abbey – a dog’s water bowl!

Does this mean the abbey is becoming dog friendly?

I sometimes think the church does not always appreciate all the wonderful contributions that dogs can make, such as guide dogs, assistance dogs, explosive sniffer dogs, dogs that can detect cancer, dogs that can help children with reading – not forgetting the wonderful companionship they offer to those of us who are bereaved.

The list is endless.

Perhaps, one day, the abbey might organise an animal blessing, after all they are all God’s creatures – now that would be wonderful!

Margaret Forbes-Buckingham

Sherborne

Women’s Institute a better target

I AM a fan of your New Blackmore Vale magazine but I did think the long article in the March 29 edition complaining about a “men-only” club was rather misplaced.

If the author was exercised about single sex organisations, then surely he could have picked a much bigger target that is closer to home – the exclusive “women-only” club known as the Women’s Institute.

Richard Joyce South Cheriton

Excellent article on Brig Wilson

WHAT an excellent, winformative and well researched piece about Walter Wilson and his lost medals – New Blackmore Vale, April 26.

I was a neighbour of Brigadier Henry Wilson in the 1980s, when his Wilson Pilcher car was in The Tank Museum. It is now owned by Ross Brawn.

There is always interesting content in the magazine.

Michael Sumpster Via email

Farming and nature can co-exist

NEW Blackmore Vale Food & Drink columnist Barbara Cossins is once again complaining about having to “plant flowers”.

A few months ago she said: “What a joyful sight, seeing our farmers producing food rather than being paid to grow pretty flowers!”

In the same edition, readers in the letters column despaired at Dorset’s declining wildlife.

In the April 26 edition other articles despaired at the impact on wildlife and fauna of housing developments.

Yes, we need to support our farmers, and food production is a necessity, but it can easily be done in harmony with nature, as local organic farms have proved.

The biggest landowners, in owning the lion’s share of the countryside, owe it to all of us to allocate some of their many acres to wildlife pockets.

Try as I might to do everything in my garden to help nature thrive, it is at best a half an acre, and we are lucky to have that much.

So many people are trying their best with a lot less, and none of us mere mortals ask or expect to be rewarded with financial incentives.

Good news on inflation, jobs and trade

LET me begin by thanking those of you who participated in our recent council and crime commissioner elections. Democracy only works when people turn up and vote. We now have a new administration running the council and I will work with them, as closely as I did the outgoing, to ensure that all of us in North Dorset are given the attention and service we deserve.

David Sidwick continues as our Police & Crime Commissioner and again I will continue to work with him to keep North Dorset low crime and safe.

It is a while since I wrote on national economic matters, so thought I might do so in this edition. Inflation coming down is welcome news for all consumers. There is still more work to do but pressures are clearly easing. It is hoped we should see a follow-on interest rate reduction by early autumn. The double reduction in National Insurance has been

Conservative MP for North Dorset

Simon

Hoare

welcomed by many –demonstrating, if demonstration is needed, that work pays.

Our underlying economic national indicators are set fair. In my many conversations with local businesses they too are feeling confident, which is good news for local job opportunities. One of the benefits of seeing a recovering economy is that the Government can pledge to raise spending on defence. In an uncertain world, national security is pivotal.

We have also seen some very

encouraging trade figures. The UK has risen to be the world’s fourth largest exporter with goods and services exports hitting £862 billion. Seventythree trade deals have been agreed, which will present great opportunity to increase still further our export market. Given our strong skills base and market friendly economy, the UK has attracted more foreign direct investment than France, Germany and Italy combined. In total we have seen 1,600 such investments which in turn have created 80,000 new jobs. A littleknown statistic is that, since 2010, 800 jobs have been created each and every day in the UK.

I know that governments of themselves do not create jobs but governments set the scene and environment for job creation. The Government has a record of which it is proud. Our increase in employment numbers is higher than the USA, France or Italy and our overall economy grows faster than

Garrick members could resign after vote on admitting women

HIGH-PROFILE members of the men-only Garrick Club have written to bosses of the London venue saying they will resign if women are not admitted after a vote this week, it has been reported. It is understood a poll of members was set to be held as the New Blackmore Vale went to press which could see women allowed to join the Garrick for the first time in its almost 200-year history.

The Garrick Club hit the headlines in March when The Guardian newspaper published a leaked list of members.

Among them were Somerset MPs Simon Hoare (Con, North Dorset) and Jacob Rees-Mogg (Con, North East Somerset).

Mr Hoare has not responded to requests for comment on his membership of the Garrick Club from your New Blackmore Vale. We have asked once again for any reaction or comments.

However, other members have spoken and former BBC news correspondent John Simpson said he would step down if members did not vote to admit women.

His statement came after it was reported former Police frontman Sting, real name Gordon Sumner, Dire Straits guitarist Mark Knoplfer and TV favourite Stephen Fry co-signed a letter pledging their resignations should the vote fail.

“Various Garrick Club members, including Sting,

Mark Knopfler and leading actors and producers, have reportedly written to the club chairman saying they’ll resign if the membership doesn’t vote to accept women next Tuesday,” Mr Simpson wrote. Many others, like me, would also find it impossible to stay.”

The letter, to Garrick Club chair Christopher Kirker, reportedly said: “We write as Garrick members who produce/co-produce and manage over 35 current productions in the West End and regionally.

“The current very public controversy over this issue has put us all in an untenable position. Our relations with female artists, co-producers, authors, cast members, members of our creative

Germany, Italy and Japan. Again, as part of the dividend of that backdrop we have been able to increase the minimum wage from £5.93 when we came into office to £11.44 today. One of the policies I am most proud of has been the focus on the resurrection of serious apprenticeships. More and more of our young people are taking them up and going on to great, secure, well paid job opportunities. This is fantastic for our skills base and business growth.

So, I am confident that the foundations of the economy are strong and that the signals for continued growth clear. UK plc is growing while also focussing on the green agenda and de-carbonising. I have said before, and say so again, we can see economic growth which is environmentally sustainable for the future. I shall continue to play my part to ensure that growth, and the proceeds of growth, are enjoyed across North Dorset.

teams, backstage and front of house theatre staff have all been jeopardised by the recent publicity to the point that, without serious progress being made to finally address this anomaly, we won’t feel able to continue as Garrick members.”

Jemima Olchawski, chief executive of gender equality and women’s rights charity the Fawcett Society, told the New Blackmore Vale: “You can only come in if a man gives you permission? What place is there for that in the 21st century?. We talk about the establishment as an old boys’ club and this is literally a club for boys.

“Because these clubs have existed historically and because powerful people continue to be members of them, it almost makes it seem as if it’s normal to have this kind of discrimination. It isn’t acceptable.”

High profile visitors to West Dorset

CONGRATULATIONS to all our new and re-elected councillors elected across West Dorset. I’d like to pay tribute to outgoing Dorset councillors for all their work for the public good – often for many decades, but particularly to Tony Alford, from Eggardon, and Mary Penfold, the former Yetminster councillor, both of whom have retired after many years.

I served alongside Tony and Mary on West Dorset District Council 10 years ago. I received a Contribution to the Community award from Mary when she was chair of the council 25 years ago – when I was parish clerk for Bishops Caundle! And Tony was not only Council Leader previously, he spearheaded the waste reforms which today have meant we have the best council in the country for recycling.

Congratulations, too, to David Sidwick, who was re-elected as the Conservative Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset.

‘It’s

Conservative MP for West Dorset

Chris Loder

I had the pleasure of welcoming both the Business Secretary, Kemi Badenoch, and the Environment Secretary, Steve Barclay, to West Dorset last month. The Business Secretary showed her support for small businesses at a meeting with the Dorchester Business Chamber at Kingston Maurward College. Small business owners were in attendance to ask the Business Secretary about a range of topics, including red

tape and investment in rural areas. With 97% of businesses in West Dorset small or microsized, it’s critical that small business owners are heard and listened to.

The Environment Secretary’s visit also featured Q&A sessions, this time with Melplash and Dorchester Agricultural Societies. It was an excellent opportunity for farmers, agricultural workers and students to speak with the Environment Secretary and ask questions. The Environment Secretary also expressed his support for the rural campaigns I have been advancing, including the improvement of animal welfare, paying farmers a fair price and clear food labelling.

Somerset NHS provides care to a significant number of West Dorset constituents who are towards the north of the county – whether that be at Yeovil, Crewkerne, Chard or Musgrove (Taunton) hospitals. Somerset NHS plans to remove the Hyper Acute Stroke Care Facility from

Yeovil Hospital. I am currently scrutinising this decision and the papers in a lot of detail. If you have any observations about this, please let me know.

In other news, major defence spending commitments were announced a few weeks ago. This includes the plan to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2030 –currently, it is at 2%. I don’t just back the Prime Minister’s announcement, I have actively encouraged it, especially given the situation we face with our national and international security, which is increasingly coming under threat from conflicts in Europe and the Middle East. I’m also pleased that in West Dorset and the local area, we are contributing to the defence of our country, with Leonardo in Yeovil nearby and, of course, RNAS Yeovilton. As always, if you’d like to contact me about any of the above, or have an issue or concern, please do email me at hello@chrisloder.co.uk.

2024 and cash is no longer king’

SINCE January 2015, 6,000 bank and building society branches have closed in the UK or are set to close by January 2025 - equivalent to 61% of all branches in 2015. Seems that cash is no longer king with the onward march of cashless transactions. Cash was used in just 15% of transactions in 2021 and UK Finance predicts the number will fall to just 6% by 2031.

So, there’s a problem. Not everyone is comfortable managing or able to manage their finances remotely. Others just prefer actual money. For some small businesses there is a need to deposit cash safely. The spate of bank losses locally began with the conversion of Lloyds in Mere to nice flats. Westbury and Warminster have followed.

Thankfully, the banking

Conservative MP for South West Wiltshire

Dr Andrew Murrison

industry body LINK has been looking at how we’re suited locally. It’s announced plans to open a new banking hub in Westbury which will provide basic banking services including counter services run on a rotational basis by the big banks

and Post Office. There’ll be dedicated rooms where customers can meet community bankers from their own bank. In Warminster, there is still a banking presence but no way of depositing cash, which is bad for many small businesses. LINK is onto that too and it is hoped there will be a solution shortly.

Last week I wrote to Treasury minister Bim Afolami calling for renewed efforts to support financial inclusion. In my letter, I asked the minister what consideration the Government has made of recommendations by the Bank of England and Financial Conduct Authority to place new obligations on service providers to facilitate access to cash as they close branches. However, access to cash alone is not enough. For those looking for help navigating the labyrinthine world of fixed and

unfixed interested rates, savings accounts, and loans, in-person conversations with knowledgeable people is essential to keeping afloat. That’s why I specifically asked that the Treasury includes access to financial services in its financial inclusion strategy.

This element of the problem is much less discussed than access to cash. I suspect this is because most people are aware of the shift toward a cashless society since it is evident in their daily interactions. All the exchanges that used to find us fumbling for change, from bus fares to a cup of coffee to money in a collection tin, have become routines performed with the tap of a card, or a phone.

One of my earliest memories is being passed a brown 10 shilling note by my grandfather. Those were the days.

Politics

‘It

is time to tackle our plastic waste’

RECENTLY, I was able to hold my first adjournment debate in the House of Commons where I spoke at length about the need to reduce our reliance on single-use plastics.

A recent massive citizen science project, the Big Plastic Count, uncovered that the UK throws away 1.7 billion pieces of plastic every year, yet only 17% of that is recycled. 58% of this plastic is burned in UK incinerators producing toxic air pollution and often more greenhouse gases per tonne burned than coal.

The problem is out of control, global plastic production doubled between 2000 and 2019 and it is anticipated that this will triple by 2050. A recent study has estimated that the plastics industry will consume 21% to 26% more of the Earth’s remaining carbon budget to keep warming below 1.5°C.

Liberal Democrat MP for Somerton & Frome

Sarah Dyke

This debate coincided with the fourth round of negotiations for the UN’s Global Plastic Treaty, and I was sure to outline how important it is that a global legally binding target to radically cut plastic production is. 74% of UK residents agree that to stop plastic pollution, we need to cut plastic production.

We need ambitious targets to tackle this problem, which is why Liberal Democrats want to end plastic exports by 2030, have set a 2025 target to end non-essential single-use plastics and set statutory long-term targets to cut plastic waste and pollution significantly by 2042 by phasing out all but the most essential use of plastic.

In this debate I was also keen to highlight some of the impressive local organisations in Somerset that are fighting to cut down on plastic waste. One organisation is Carymoor Environmental Trust that has worked with more than 58,000 children in Somerset since 2018 to educate them on ways to avoid single-use plastic.

Local businesses such as Bruton Dairy, which now uses steel milk churns rather than plastic, and Tytherington Milk Station, near Frome, which runs milk vending machines with

refillable glass bottles, are also innovative examples of ways plastic waste can be reduced. Finally, I was able to press the Government on its lack of ambition regarding its recently announced Deposit Return Scheme. After nearly six years of delay the Government finally announced the scheme, but sadly said it would not be operational until 2026. This is despite international examples showing an effective scheme can be up and running within 18 months. It also broke its 2019 manifesto commitment to include glass bottles in such a scheme.

I will continue to hold the Government to account and push for the ambitious targets that are so desperately needed. As always, if there is anything I can do to help you, please do not hesitate to get in touch with me at sarah.dyke. mp@parliament.uk

No excuses - North Dorset expects...

ELECTION counts are peculiar things. A political bubble all in a sports hall, of rosette-wearing apparatchiks scurrying from table to table of ballot papers trying to discern results before the count is officially announced. And there’s a lot of waiting. The counters at Redlands in Dorset last Friday – whom we thank – were as equally perplexed about the large amount of nothing happening. For the politicians, there’s a lot of standing around. I’ve often suspected the ‘democratic services’ departments of local authorities relish picking venues with an absence of chairs for candidates, and then taking their sweet time.

So when the final result for Dorset was announced after 9pm, most people at the count had got fed up and gone home. The rolling news coverage had petered out. It was the last result of the day nationally.

Greg Williams, on behalf of Dorset Labour

Did this dent the Liberal’s victory somewhat? Perhaps, but the mood at the count throughout the day was pretty flat.

I’m not just talking about Labour here. Despite some great national results, we did

not have a good day in Dorset. We narrowly missed out on making gains in Portland and Swanage. In North Dorset, despite some great first time candidates in Gillingham and Blandford in particular – thanks Anna and Gerald – we didn’t really kick on in a way that reflected the national swing.

No. Despite what you might infer from other columns, the mood was pretty flat across the board. While the Lib Dems made some targeted breakthroughs with excellent local candidates and squeezing other parties, they know they prospered because Tory voters stayed at home. In rural North Dorset, the Tory vote was relatively solid, though. I think Gary Jackson may come to regret the hubris of the leaflet he – paid to be? – delivered proclaiming himself as ‘North Dorset’s next MP’ before a vote for him is cast.

Indeed, the irony of a party

with ‘democrats’ in their name spamming leaflets with dodgy graphs and ‘so and so can’t win here’ is wearing thin with all. I noticed that, whenever one of their candidates’ victories was proclaimed, few other rosette colours were present to applaud. I’ve been mistaken in saying we would need proportional representation for a change in government in Dorset. But we do need it to put an end to their condescending leaflets. So what next? Governing outright, the Liberals will be expected to deliver. Thanks to the sale of district council assets, they are one of the few administrations in the country to inherit stable finances. They won’t be able to blame other parties or a lack of funding. There are Liberal-voting towns in the Vale that have, over the part five years, felt neglected by a Tory administration in Dorchester. No excuses now. North Dorset expects.

Boring politics is often better politics

I’D love to steal the fine words of hope from Ronald Reagan’s day in his famous “it’s sunrise in America” phrase. The man who today would be regarded by Donald Trump and Liz Truss as a socialist had the words of hope to capture the mood of his country at that point. Yes, I know there’s a pretty substantial difference between the USA in the 80s and Dorset today, and I know I risk raising an eyebrow on even the most forgiving reader’s face just putting these things together in the same paragraph.

Forgive me for getting a bit carried away, but I am very proud to be part of the Liberal Democrat team that worked hard and secured the trust and hope of Dorset’s electors to take overall control of Dorset Council today in local elections.

For the new Liberal Democrat-led council we need

Gary Jackson, North Dorset Liberal Democrats

to start quickly and make rapid progress. The council should be more responsive, more open to scrutiny and more engaged with Dorset’s residents.

Communications have become very corporate and one-

way since the unitary council was set up in 2019. Early action is needed to engage in a more constructive and mutual way.

The Lib Dem instinct will absolutely be to make that happen. Even in financially constrained times, there can be much greater engagement and accountability than there has been before.

I know that people are pretty tired of politics. That was the message time after time throughout the campaign but it was mixed with hope for something better, without the drama. Boring politics is better politics. Negotiation and deals that make progress are better than hysteria, division and point-scoring.

With things settled in Dorset we have a fresh mandate and fresh thinking. We look forward to some boring, well planned, well executed politics with actual progress on the things

that really matter to people and their lives.

I was sitting at the count earlier today, on the balcony above the noise of the counting process going on below. Tables were attended by dedicated staff, fully engaged in the wonderful, technocratic integrity and rigour of making sure the ballots were accounted for and fairly counted. Candidate fingernails were chewed and hopes were still alive. The detailed count was about to get going and many hours later it is done.

There was a lot of respect around those counting rooms today in Weymouth. Competing candidates shared their experiences in the cafe and I’d say that things look brighter now than they did this morning. In fact, I’ll say that tomorrow morning there will be a renewal. It will be sunrise in Dorset.

New Blackmore Vale reader Stephen Nicholls sent in this photo of oil

Place 1 to 9 once into every black-bordered 3x3 area as well as each of the 54 rows indicated by the coloured lines. Rows don’t cross the thick black lines.

Killer Sudoku Pro

Across 8 Fabulous creature having run-in possibly about firm (7)

9 Forgetting name, recall original musical (5)

10 Rough sponge a nitwit held back (5)

11 Piece on dress in part of old ship (3,4)

12 Making easy element in party touring island, inspired area (12)

Killer Sudoku Pro

16 Abundant source surprisingly lent for phony (4,2,6)

20 Striking plant that’s cultivated in exposed edge of rock (7)

23 Scoundrels start to exclaim and swear (5)

24 A writer in Greece and player on computers? (5)

25 Appropriate start in Turkey (7) Down

Place numbers 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and bold-lined 3x3 box. No digit may be repeated in any dash-lined cage, and all the digits in any cage must add up to the value shown in that cage.

1 Part round line in bedcover (5)

2 Outdated type is around ground (8)

3 African citizen in this way facing African country (6)

4 Catch stump (4)

5 Hear in quake rupture (6)

6 Type of music, source of joy I have condensed (4)

7 Bishop, say, showing benevolence for all people? (7)

13 Devilish youth in slim pullover (3)

14 Fascination in growth from account? (8)

15 By the sound of it, cast is finished (7)

17 Model for astronomers or engineers on railway (6)

18 Legal deed worse in review when probed Conservative (6)

19 Transport British rock singer (5)

21 Rotting meat in flat (4)

22 US poet left out course of action (4)

(7)

History

Exciting find and a slice of life under Cromwell

IN 1982 a missing portion of the Minutes of the Dorset Standing Committee was discovered at Kingston Lacy, home of Dorset’s largest landowners, the Bankes family. This came as a great surprise, as no-one knew it existed.

The Minutes cover the period when Parliament under Oliver Cromwell ruled the country. King Charles I was exiled from court and would eventually be executed.

Standing Committees were set up in every county to run local government and exert control over the people. Anyone who opposed Parliamentary rule was heavily fined or had homes and property confiscated.

Dorset’s Civil War history is rich in incident with the sieges of Corfe Castle and Lyme Regis major events in the history of that conflict.

Tim Goodwin, an expert on the period, has transcribed this fascinating piece of ‘lost’ history, which along with related material, is set to be published by Dorset Record Society.

When Ralph Bankes died in 1981, he left Kingston Lacy and its estates in Purbeck to the National Trust.

A new book about life in Dorset during the English Civil Wars, when Parliament and Oliver Cromwell ruled, is the subject of a new book published by Dorset Record Society. Secretary ANN SMITH writes about the era and how the fascinating text came to be found at Kingston Lacy.

Beside the paintings, furniture and other works of art which became available for the public to see, the house also contained the Bankes Archive, a major collection of documents dating from the 1600s to the 20th century.

The sieges of Corfe Castle – above – and Lyme Regis were major events in the English Civil Wars

section covering March and April 1646 was an unexpected and exciting find.

The Minutes record the daily business, including charges for feeding Parliamentary soldiers, seizing horses from local people for the military, selling the goods of people whose property had been confiscated, cutting down their timber and harvesting their crops.

The archives were taken to Dorset History Centre, where they were catalogued and made available to the public.

It was during this process that the missing portion of the Minutes was found. The main portion from 1646-50 was published in 1902, but the

Parsons were also ejected from parishes if their beliefs did not conform to Puritan standards and encouraged locals to pass on intelligence about their neighbours.

The Civil War-era letters of members of the Strangways family form the second part of this book. They are almost all written by women. Their menfolk were away fighting, imprisoned or in exile abroad.

Their wives remained behind to keep an eye on their houses and land, or in many cases, to petition the Standing Committee for the return of

their property and relief from heavy fines.

The Minutes and letters are written in 17th century handwriting, which is not easy to read. The original documents have been damaged in places, which makes them even harder to decipher.

Dorset Record Society has published them in a hardback volume in modern typeface.

Tim Goodwin’s book, Dorset in the Civil War, was the first to be published on the subject since 1910 and was well received.

He has been fascinated by the history of Dorset, especially in the 17th century, since moving to the county in 1988 and continues to research the period.

The book is published by Dorset Record Society, price £14.95, and is available from Dorset History Centre, Bridport Road, Dorchester DT1 1RP.

The launch event is at Dorset History Centre in Dorchester on Saturday, May 18, at 2pm and everyone is welcome.

Letter shone light on emigration story

CASTLE Cary woman Maureen Wincott’s new book, A Letter from Pitney, will be enjoyed by people with an interest in Somerset history or local history.

The book, about emigration to Australia from Pitney, is the result of many years of research.

Maureen was born and brought up in Somerset and always knew she was of

farming stock for generations.

As a keen local historian and a lecturer in Heritage Management, she has explored many topics in and around Somerset.

It was during one of these pieces of research that she connected with a distant relative in Australia who shared a letter written by her three

times great-grandmother, Elizabeth Oram, to her great nephew, David Barnard, who had emigrated from Pitney in Somerset.

The letter was passed down the generations to the five times great nephew of Elizabeth, Peter Swebbs, and his wife Ellen.

The resulting research around the mass emigration to the colonies from Pitney in the

mid-19th century and around the characters mentioned, unearthed some amazing stores.

It also shone a light on the important role women in the 19th century played in the story of emigration.

A Letter from Pitney is priced at £10 and is available from the Pitney Farm Shop and Stationery House, Somerton, or can be ordered at www. dimmerbooks.co.uk

Four Cs can show the best diamonds

By Amy Brenan, director of Heirlooms Jewellers, 21 South Street, Wareham

I LOVE sourcing the most gorgeous diamonds when I am looking for pieces to sell or when I am valuing a collection for a customer!

I use the recognised four Cs criteria which helps me assess the quality and authenticity of the gemstone:

Cut – the way a diamond is cut and polished by a skilled craftsman increases its value. You may have read about different cut shapes such as round, brilliant, marquise, pear, princess, emerald and Ascher. It's not just about shaping the diamond – it's about crafting facets that allow light to enter, reflect internally, and exit in a

dazzling display of brilliance.

Colour – truly colourless diamonds are the most sought after for their purity and brilliance, as they allow light to pass through without any interference from colour. However, coloured diamonds, known as fancy diamonds, possess unique hues such as pink, blue or yellow, which can be highly prized for their rarity and individuality.

Clarity – refers to the presence or absence of internal and external flaws, known as inclusions and blemishes, respectively. These natural imperfections are formed during the diamond's crystallisation process deep within the Earth. It is graded on a scale ranging from Flawless – no inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x

Fine Asian art will make high prices

FINE Asian Art takes centre stage at Dore & Rees Monday, May 20, with viewing in London at Asia House on May 12-13 and in Frome from May 17-19.

Highlights include a large and rare underglaze blue and copper-red ‘Star God and Deer’ lantern vase for sale at an estimate of £20,000-£40,000. A fine translucent dark-red bottle vase with four-character mark is offered at £5,000£8,000, along with a fine and rare cloisonne bronze mounted lotus vase, for sale at an estimate of £4,000-£6,000. These three pieces come from the private collection of the late George Withers, a collection that has been 100% sold in auctions to date.

Head of Asian Art Lee Young is sourcing items for the next auction in November – please

Diamonds are assessed on their cut, colour, clarity and carat

magnification – to Included –inclusions and blemishes visible to the naked eye. The higher the clarity, the higher the price! Carat – refers to the weight of the diamond. One carat is equivalent to 200 milligrams, and diamonds are typically

measured to the nearest 100th of a carat. While carat weight influences the size of the diamond, it's essential to note that two diamonds of equal weight can appear vastly different in size depending on their cut.

get in touch if you would like to arrange a valuation on the saleroom contact details below.

In June, Dore & Rees looks forward to a bumper month of auctions including Fine Silver, Fine Jewellery and Watches on June 5, Automobilia on June 11 and Classic Cars on June 22.

Nick Wells, head of motoring, will be delighted to assist with valuations of motoring memorabilia including posters, enamel signs, mascots, handbooks and classic cars. Contact Nick on 07920 500091 or at nick.wells@doreandrees. com

An exciting programme of auctions is planned for 2024, offering a variety of opportunities for sellers. Contact Dore & Rees on 01373 462257 or email enquiries@doreandrees.com to arrange a free appointment.

FINE ASIAN ART 20 MAY 2024, 10:30AM

Viewings in London at Asia House, 63 New Cavendish Street, London W1G 7LP: Sunday 12 May 12:00 to 17:00, Monday 13 May 10:00 to 14:00

Viewings in Frome: Friday 17 May- Sunday 19 May, 10:00-16:00

Everything for the garden...

ACREMAN St Auctioneers & Valuers Sherborne has a Garden & Architectural sale coming up on Thursday, May 30, at 10am, with about 160 lots.

Items include a Victorian cast iron aesthetic movement garden bench, a Lutyens teak bench and two matching chairs, lead figures and a circular lead pond, a Gothic wooden garden gate, pair of Victorian cast iron lidded urns on pedestals, staddle stones, garden pots, tables and chairs etc.

Acreman is also holding an Antiques & Collectors Auction on May 30, at noon, and a Jewellery, Silver & Watches sale on Friday, May 31, at 10am.

Viewing is on Wednesday, May 29, from 10am-4pm. The catalogue and bidding are available through

Easyliveauction.com and Thesaleroom.com, and Auctionet.com for timed auctions.

Acreman is accepting consignments for its upcoming sales and can advise prospective sellers on anything being considered for auction.

Anyone who has anything they would like to consign should contact Gill Norman on 07908 333577 or 01935 508764.

Photos can be emailed to auction@acremanstreet antiques.co.uk or items taken into Acreman at 121 Acreman Street, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3PH, Monday to Saturday 9am-4pm, for it to take a look at.

Valuation days, offering free valuations, are held every Wednesday.

GARDEN & ARCHITECTURAL

Thursday 30th May 10am

ANTIQUES & COLLECTABLES

Thursday 30th May 12 noon

JEWELLERY, SILVER & WATCHES

Friday 31st May 10am

Suffragette items at Charterhouse auction

A GROUP of suffragette and other items awarded to and owned by Dr Margaret Ida Balfour – pictured – is one of the amazing lots being sold by Charterhouse in its three-day Collectors Auction from Tuesday, May 28, to Thursday, May 30.

£500.

She was born in Edinburgh in 1866 and pursued a career in medicine at a time when few women studied the subject, qualifying as a doctor in 1891.

Women were not permitted to formally graduate from the University of Edinburgh and she went to France and Belgium to do so before working in India.

“Rarely do we see items relating to the Suffragette Movement at auction and to see such a collection you can put a name to is even better,” said Richard Bromell, from the auction house.

The group of items owned by Dr Margaret Balfour is estimated to sell for £300-

Charterhouse is accepting further entries for its busy programme of specialist auctions including coins, medals, stamps, toys, classic cars and classic motorcycles throughout May and June.

Richard Bromell and the Charterhouse team can be contacted for specialist advice and valuations at The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, on 01935 812277 or via rb@ charterhouse-auction.com.

Bracelet could sell for £15,000

DUKE’S Auctioneers Fine jewellery, watches, accessories, wines and spirits auction takes place on Wednesday and Thursday, June 12-13.

The auction offers a curated collection of exceptional variety, including treasures for long-time jewellery collectors and first-time buyers alike.

The sale begins with fine jewellery on June 12, followed by watches, accessories, wines and spirits on June 13.

The five pillars of the auction: jewellery, watches, accessories, wines and spirits are each marked by pieces of high quality and exceptional beauty.

A highlight in the jewellery section is a Portuguese amethyst and diamond bracelet – pictured – in 18ct gold, set with three principal step-cut amethysts,

encircled by a border of old mine-cut diamonds, reposed in pinched collet settings of silver.

This heavenly piece is set to make £10,000-£15,000 at auction.

Fine jewellery continues to hold a command over the auction world.

With pieces wreathed in beauty and quality, it’s no surprise it continues to be a popular and bountiful auction.

More jewellery, watches, accessories, wines and spirits in Duke’s upcoming auction can be found on its website at dukes-auctions.com

Gangster’s landscape for sale

CLARKE’S Auctions at Semley is busy preparing for its next sale – which looks to be a very busy one – on Friday and Saturday, May 10-11.

The furniture section includes a beautiful 18th century Welsh primitive comb-back armchair estimated at £1,500-£2,000 and a charming 19th century continental “Glderde Kussenkasenkast” Gelderland oak, rosewood and ebony armour expected to make £100-£200.

In the silver section, a 19th century Russian silver gilt and yellow metal snuff box by Brandenburg Eduard Fedorovich carries an estimate of £200 to £400.

An original painting by notorious gangster Ronnie Kray is also on offer – a quirky landscape with two figures fishing by a stream is estimated at £100-£200.

A wide selection of militaria, rugs, fabrics, garden items, collectables, silver, ceramics and more is on offer.

Clarke’s Auctions offers free valuations at its Semley office or at the vendor’s home, valuations for probate and insurance, and a carriage service.

Enquires should be made to Richard Clark or Karen Marshall on 01747 855109 at the main offices at Kingsettle Business Park, Station Road, Semley, Shaftesbury.

The jewellery section features some real dazzlers with a diamond panel brooch estimated at £800-£1,200 and a pair of 18ct white gold diamond flowered stud earrings, each set with seven brilliant cut diamonds, estimated to make £300-£500.

WANTED Classic Cars & Motorbikes. For private collection Call 07885 373113 or 01278 431244 Graham

WANTED Coins and Coin Collections Call Nick 07754058850 / trimoneta@hotmail.com WANTED Books, collectables and bric-a-brac. Call Jack: 07542 389447

BILL 07967 816506 or 01747 811100

Blooming elegance

by Amy Brenan, director of Heirlooms Jewellers,

21

South Street,

Wareham ONE of the jewellery trends for 2024 is flowers, yet the origins of floral jewellery can be traced back to ancient civilisations such as Egypt, where flowers held deep symbolic significance.

Ancient Egyptians adorned themselves with floral-inspired ornaments, often incorporating motifs of lotus lilies and papyrus.

These floral adornments were not merely decorative but held significant religious and cultural meanings.

featuring roses symbolising love, violets representing modesty and lilies signifying purity.

Floral motifs were an essential feature in Art Nouveau jewellery, as designers drew inspiration from organic forms and shapes.

Exquisite pieces featuring sinuous vines, delicate blossoms and flowing lines captured the essence of the natural world.

In the 20th and 21st centuries, contemporary designers draw inspiration from nature, creating bold and innovative pieces.

& Classic Clock Repairs & Restoration

Longcase Clocks a speciality Antique Clock sales

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

Persian & European Carpets, Rugs & Textiles; and Antique Furniture & Objects.

During the Middle Ages, floral jewellery became romantic, with motifs like roses and lilies symbolising love and purity.

The Renaissance period saw a resurgence of interest in botanical themes, with jewellers crafting intricate pieces inspired by nature’s beauty.

In the 19th century, Queen Victoria’s love for nature and sentimentality saw a surge in popularity for floral symbolism, and jewellery became a means of expressing emotions and sentiments, with pieces

Moving away from traditional flowers such as roses, daisies and carnations, they have incorporated more exotic flowers such as hibiscus and orchids.

Chanel, Dior, Van Cleef & Arpels and Tiffany & Co have all been inspired to create their own stunning floral collections. From classic floral motifs reimagined in precious metals and gemstones to avant-garde interpretations using unconventional materials, floral jewellery remains a timeless favourite.

Floral jewellery remains a timeless favourite

There’s more to creating a ‘wildflower meadow’ than letting the grass grow

by Sally Gregson

AT last our lawns are greening again and reminding gardeners that they need attention. Now is just the right time to top dress the grass with a fertiliser formulated for spring – a spring dressing.

Ensure it is spread evenly over the sward, and that rain is forecast within a day or three.

A good spring dressing will also contain a broad-leaf weedkiller to eliminate any daisies, dandelions and docks that seem to pop up from nowhere. And it should also contain a moss-killer, which is especially important on heavy

soil after this winter of interminable rain.

If moss is a chronic feature, it might be wise to consider an entire drainage system this winter. Ask around for estimates of cost.

After all the expense of maintaining a lawn is beginning to pall, the idea of ‘No Mow May’ can seem very tempting. It has been catching on of late.

Allowing “wildflowers” to germinate and grow where they would otherwise have been eliminated in favour of grass, is quite a revolution.

Before committing to what seems like a good measure to

avoid mowing the lawn every week, ask friends and neighbours who have tried it. There’s quite a lot more to creating a “wildflower meadow” than simply letting the grass grow.

The routine Sunday mow may seem unnecessary, but meadows do need a lot of maintenance. And they would need cutting and raking off at end of the summer.

However, if your soil is basically light and sandy, and poor in nutrients, then turning it into a wildflower meadow would be a lot easier than trying to keep the grass green during a

Home & Garden

Allowing “wildflowers” grow in favour of grass has become increasingly popular

hot summer.

The sensible message is to make the most of your garden’s natural conditions – dry, sunny, well-drained soil is ideal for making a meadow; and rich, heavy ground is probably better covered in lawn.

If so, be prepared to invest in good drainage, to prevent acres of moss and standing water. Our weather is only going to get more extreme. Go with the flow. It’s easier and better in the long term.

Runner beans all summer long…

by Sally Gregson

ONE of the joys of growing your own veg is the opportunity to pick lots of beans.

Beans of all shapes and sizes are among the easiest things to grow, be they dwarf French beans with tender, rounded pods like pencils; rich pale bread beans that bridge that hungry gap between the winter vegetables and the abundance of summer; or simply runner beans in a row.

They all reliably produce plenty of nourishing beans to eat all summer.

However, it’s easy to let them all get rather too big. As any of the beans get over-sized they become chewy and stringy, so it’s well to pick them while they are young.

After all, the shops can’t afford to sell them when they are small and sweet. And picking them encourages the formation of more beans. So, keep picking them and keep them coming.

It’s just the right time to sow a row of French beans now in

early May. The ground has warmed up and the danger of frosts has for the most part

gone. If a sudden late frost threatens, cover the emerging row with fleece held down with

something heavy.

The time for sowing broad beans has probably passed, but runner beans also germinate now quickly and soon catch up with any April-sown varieties raised under glass.

Watch out for little mice, however. They tend to wait until your back is turned and then help themselves to a bean-feast.

So put a line of small-gauge wire-netting in a tunnel all along the row, remembering to block the ends.

There can be little so frustrating as waiting for the seedling beans to sprout only to discover they have all been stolen while you were elsewhere.

Keep the row watered during dry spells, and if necessary, thin the seedlings to about 15cm apart in rows about 30cm apart. Too close and they don’t crop as well, and too far apart and you’ll wish you had put them closer.

And you’ll be eating beans all summer long.

Beans of all shapes and sizes are among the easiest things to grow

Home & Garden

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STEPPING INTO SUMMER WITH LIZZIE PRICE SHADING SOLUTIONS

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Home & Garden

30 years of a watchword for naturalistic gardening

THIS year, Knoll Gardens, near Wimborne, celebrates 30 years under the caring ownership of Neil Lucas and his family, who bought the site in 1994 with the ambition of creating a specialist ornamental grass nursery and naturalist garden.

Over the last three decades, the four-acre gardens have evolved, leading the way in naturalistic gardening, demonstrating the importance of adapting to the ever-changing climate and advocating the ‘right plant, right place’ ethos.

Knoll is an RHS Partner Garden, and between 2002 and 2011 exhibited at the prestigious RHS Chelsea Flower Show, each year earning a coveted ‘gold’ medal, a superb 10 in total.

As well as catering to the public and trade, the Knoll Gardens nursery also supplies

acclaimed gardens such as the Royal Botanic Garden at Kew, RHS Wisley and Rosemoor and the Hillier Arboretum.

Neil’s extensive knowledge of ornamental grasses make him one of the country’s leading experts and his love of these graceful, beautiful and versatile plants is clearly seen in their use in the gardens design and layout.

Following the principles of naturalistic gardening, significant parts of the gardens

It is three decades since Neil Lucas and his family took on Knoll Gardens, near Wimborne PHOTO: Knoll Gardens

have been reshaped over the years, with new zones created such as the dry meadow and rain garden, while other spaces have been reimagined, including the replanting of the Dragon Garden in the Prairie Style last year, in anticipation of this year’s anniversary.

The 30-year milestone will be marked with a series of new interpretation boards telling the story of the gardens, and a new website.

Through Knoll’s naturalistic

approach, expounded by its charitable organisation, the Knoll Gardens Foundation, it is leading the way in helping gardeners to work with nature and adapt to the changing climate, through courses, masterclasses, educational events and research.

Much of the data collected through surveys is shared with local and national organisations to inform future conservation.

Managed in harmony with nature, the gardens are increasingly a place of sanctuary for wildlife. Their serenity is also a balm for human visitors and a number of workshops and activities, in keeping with the calming environment, can help build a sense of well-being whether through painting, photography or yoga.

Knoll Gardens and Nursery is keen to add more plants to its range and building on its ever-growing knowledge of grasses, and of the relationship between gardens, gardening and the natural environment.

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Days of tomato soup are coming back

by Sally Gregson

AT last, the warmth seems to be returning to greet the summer, and many gardeners’ thoughts are turning to growing tomatoes, aubergines and peppers in the greenhouse.

The frosts should be past and the world, and the soil, is warming up. With a few days of sunshine these soft vegetables will respond with a growth spurt.

Having bought young plants, or raised them from seed in the frost-free greenhouse, it can seem like a good trick to avoid the task of regularly potting on fast-growing tomatoes in particular, by skipping the pot sizes and planting the young tomato straight into a bigger

pot.

But putting small plants into big pots causes more problems than it solves.

The roots of young tomato plants tend to move outwards, seeking the sides of the pot where the moisture has evaporated down the inside. They tend not to grow into the middle of the compost.

Consequently, there is a whole area of wet, nutrient-rich soil that is sitting underneath the middle of the young plant. In extreme cases this can cause the whole plant to rot.

And the container is full of nutrients that are going to flush through unused, and they have a fairly short shelf-life. It is much wiser to pot on

It can seem like a good trick to avoid the task of regularly potting on fast-growing tomatoes, by skipping the pot sizes and planting the young tomato straight into a bigger pot. But putting small plants into big pots causes more problems than it solves

each time the roots are showing through the drainage holes at the bottom, into a slightly larger pot.

It needs doing perhaps every two or three weeks, when the nutrients have been used up and the roots have absorbed all that moisture.

By the middle of June, the tomato plants will be big

enough to plant out in a prepared, sunny spot in the vegetable garden, or into a grow-bag.

They will need feeding regularly from the moment they start to form flowers with a high potassium, tomato fertiliser to promote lots of fruit.

The days of tomato soup are back again.

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Grow your own:

It’s fresh and it’s healthy!

by Barbara Cossins

THE longer nights and warmer weather are here at last, and everything is growing beautifully out in the fields. Most importantly, the food that we eat is growing well and without that, we would have nothing to feed us all.

Remember the old saying “Ne’er cast a clout till May is out”, though, as Jack Frost may still pay a visit. This was an old farmer’s saying that warned people not to dispose of winter clothing before the cooler days of May were over or they may regret it. The British weather has always been fickle, and we mustn’t forget that, even though we are all more than ready to get our summer clothes on for

some much-needed sunshine. It is always sad when the late frost kills our baby plants, so don’t put them out too quickly. This is the perfect time to be growing some of your own vegetables in tubs, if you don’t have much of a garden. Herbs are all growing like mad at the moment and they do very well in flower pots on windowsills, so you don’t need any space at all to have some of these.

I love my fresh herbs in everything. Chives in a mashed potato or cream sauce, tarragon, mint, parsley – flat leaf or curly – sage, thyme or rosemary, they are so useful and versatile. There is nothing more satisfying than picking something fresh that you have grown yourself

The price of potatoes has shot up because of months of wet weather affecting the crops

and adding it to your lunch or dinner and eating your efforts. Here in England we don’t encourage people to grow fresh food anywhere near enough. It’s amazing what you can grow from seeds in a tiny space. When you go to other countries, you can see every little bit of ground is growing something, if it’s at all possible. From lettuces and radishes, to leeks, potatoes, tomatoes, raspberries and anything else fresh and healthy that you can grow to feed your family.

Potato prices have gone mad again. In fact, not just mad, downright crazy. They are now

£500 a tonne, with the wet weather as the leading cause of the problem. Let’s not waste any of them and enjoy everything of the potato, even the skins, which have the most fibre in them. Everyone was having a go at growing their own during Covid, so it’s 100% possible and we should all try doing it again.

It’s so sad when we hear people say they think their food comes from the supermarket. What? It’s just a place that sells food, a convenient platform that takes the glory for other people’s hard work. Our small food producers and farmers no less! We need to appreciate the real people who grow and tend the food we eat – it’s better to eat fresh and in season and not waste anything.

Eat fresh, eat local. Love Local Trust Local.

n Barbara Cossins, creator of Love Local Trust Local; proprietor of The Langton Arms and Rawston Farm Butchery & Shop.

TRADITIONAL COUNTRY PUB SERVING FINE FOOD AND DRINKS

Peter and Karlene are delighted to invite you to the Plough Inn at Manston and look forward to seeing you soon.

We are delighted that our renovation and expansion project has been well received by customers as have our food and beverage offerings. After a very long search, we now have a fully staffed kitchen and offer our full lunch and dinner menu every day from Tuesday lunch until Sunday lunch. We are closed after lunch on Sunday and all day Monday. We offer a wide range of beers, cider, wines and spirits as well as a range of non-alcoholic options.

A Pub With Warmth And Atmosphere

The bar and snug have been refreshed but retain all the old features that made this cosy area so attractive. And, by popular demand, we have a new wood burning stove to provide atmosphere and warmth whenever needed! We have a completely new kitchen, beer cellar and new male, female and disabled washrooms. The old conservatory is now an insulated garden room and we have a new dining area which can accommodate a further twenty guests.

Hearty Food And Distinctive Drinks

By experimenting with our menu and listening to our customers we have developed a popular menu ranging from light snacks to exciting specials and everything in-between. Please look at our menu and see if you can spot your favourite country pub meal. For Sunday lunch, in addition to our full menu, we offer a traditional roast with all the trimmings. Our range of drinks has evolved in response to customer demand and caters for all tastes. But most importantly we have built a wonderful team to look after you all and ensure a great experience at the Plough.

We

hope to see you soon, Cheers, Peter

& Karlene

Eat less sugar and feel the benefits

by Daisy Campbell

FORGIVE me for bringing up the word “sugar”. I know eating less refined sugar is now plastered everywhere and can be very annoying, but I can’t help but want to share with you how eradicating it from my life has been brilliant and lifechanging.

Most of us know, or we pretend not to, that refined sugar has no benefit to us. It is incredibly addictive, it ages us, weakens our immune system, damages our cells, disrupts our hormones, makes us put on weight and can cause low mood, but is completely and utterly delicious!

After a battle with long Covid, picking up every bug going around and constant low energy, I began to investigate my diet and how I could make

Owners look to restore work-life balance

A POPULAR Blandford restaurant is cutting hours of kitchen service in a bid to stave off burn out.

The Kitchen at Blandford, in Salisbury Street, has proved popular with foodies since opening two years ago.

Now, owners Dan and Laura have announced the venue will open seven days a week – but kitchen service will not be available on Tuesdays and Wednesday.

In a social media post outlining the changes, the eatery’s Kitchen Team wrote: “Firstly, a huge thank you to all of you who have visited and supported us over our first two years of running The Kitchen at Blandford.

“We genuinely couldn’t have imagined it going this well and us being this busy.”

changes to help me feel stronger and more resilient. I started by taking refined sugar out. The first two weeks were testing but after three or four weeks the benefits were flooding in.

Apart from better skin and losing weight, I have noticed fewer low moods, getting colds and flu hardly ever and much more energy and confidence. The wonderful thing is that once it becomes an unconscious habit, you don’t crave the sweetness anymore and it starts to feel easy and normal. I promise you that’s true.

We are all different. Some prefer cold turkey, while others need a more gentle approach and that, of course, is fine. Even just swapping your teaspoon of white sugar in tea with honey is a good start. Cutting out processed food, which often

They went on to outline the proposed changes – and the reasons behind them.

“We are constantly burning ourselves out by trying to please our lovely customers and have forgotten to take care of ourselves,” the post went on.

“This has led to prolonged periods of staff illness/ exhaustion and this in turn puts pressure on the rest of our team members.

“So with all the above in mind, going forward, Tuesdays and Wednesdays will be Snack Menu only. Plenty of scones, cakes, snacks, hot and cold drinks and ice creams, but no kitchen service.”

The changes mean breakfast, brunch and lunch will be available from Thursday to Monday.

“We hope you understand and will continue to support us – and choose to have a lighter Snack on Tuesdays and Wednesdays – so Laura and Dan can try to regain a little balance in their lives,” the post added.

hides a lot of sugar, is also a wonderful way to begin. Whatever way you feel to take it on, you are doing your body so much good. And, of course, there are those moments, usually at tea time or after supper, when the pull for something sweet is strong. I have a few favourites I reach for when those moments come.

One of them, which is quick and simple, is a date or two, split gently down the middle and stuffed with a few smashed up nuts of your choice, that have been coated in melted coconut oil. If I’m desperate, I drizzle very dark chocolate over the top and put it in the fridge or freezer to cool off and become almost like a Snickers bar! It is

wonderful and very sweet.

The other is to whizz up the thick coconut cream that sits at the top of a tin of coconut milk, with a few frozen berries and a few dates and pecan nuts. Sensational, just like ice cream, almost.

The important thing to remember when making changes is to be gentle with yourself and that it takes time. Particularly in these unsettled times, it has never been more important to be in a strong and resilient state inside, giving yourself the best chance to fend off the external stress and chaos. n Daisy Campbell is a fully certified health coach. For gentle guidance and coaching, phone 07740 864 616. Daisy Campbell felt she lost weight, had fewer low moods and more energy and confidence after giving up sugar

Shaftesbury are going up to the Southern League South & West Division after a play-off win against AFC Stoneham

Rockies make history with promotion

by Avril Lancaster

Velocity Wessex League

Premier Division play-off final AFC Stoneham 0 Shaftesbury 1 (Pitman 41) SHAFTESBURY won promotion to Step 4 of the English non-league football pyramid for the first time in their history, with victory at the Stoneham Sports Complex for the second time this season – and once again Brett Pitman was on hand with a 41st minute winner.

Liam Farrugia delivered the corner that bounced up for Ben Satterley to head into the path of Pitman to plunder his 59th league goal and 61st in all competitions.

AFC Stoneham keeper Callum Lee had to call time on his game with a nasty hamstring

injury.

The second half saw the Rockies blunt AFC Stoneham’s high press.

Substitute Greg Peel had the best chance to extend the lead, forcing outfield emergency keeper Pattison to tip the ball over the bar.

AFC Stoneham introduced Fee and Orvis at half-time, and Tyrell Sampson made inroads, but Shaftesbury kept them at arm’s length, absorbing the home side’s possession without being in too much danger.

The visitors saw out the time left and made history by gaining promotion to the Southern League South & West Division – a fantastic achievement for Jim Milligan and the team.

Hard going

by Simon Hebditch

FISHING was hard in round 2 of the Kenet & Avon Canal Spring League, from the Marsh to Lowe Dunmill – 68 pegs –with many competitors recording ounces and only just under 7lb needed to win.

The winner was Rob Pearson (Colmic A4) who drew Upper

Youngsters in regional finals

PLAYERS in Blandford & Sturminster U12s displayed a great team ethos and put in some wonderful individual performances in the South West Hockey finals.

After finishing second to Bournemouth in the regional group competition, they progressed to the regional finals where they were faced some much bigger clubs.

The boys played Taunton Vale HC (L 3-0), Plymouth Marjons (L 4-0), Westbury (L 2-0), RWB (D 0-0), Falmouth (W 3-1) and finally Cheltenham (L 7-0).

It was the first time

Blandford & Sturminster had progressed this far in the competition.

The club are regrouping their men’s team ready for the 2024/25 season.

Players aged 13 and above are invited make the leap into senior hockey, along with seasoned players who want to reinvigorate their old hockey skills. Training is set to start in August.

For more information, visit www.blandfordandsturhc.co.uk or email bshc2007@hotmail. com.

Kenet & Avon Canal

Dunmill and caught skimmers and perch on chopped worm to weigh 6lb 15oz. Runner-up was Mick Sheppherd (Sensas Oakwood) who drew end peg at the Marsh and caught roach and skimmers over groundbait to weigh 6lb 9oz.

Other places: 3 Simon Willsmore (Daiwa Dorking) 6lb 6.5oz; 4 Alan Gibbs (Matrix Talisman) 6lb 4oz; 5 Gary Etheridge (GBMV Magic) 5lb 6oz; 6 Rob Randall (GBMV Gold) 4lb 11oz.

Team results: Drennan Bordon, 50 points; Garbolino Blackmore Vale Magic, 49

points; Garbolino Blackmore Vale Gold, 48 points; Daiwa Dorking, 44 points; PI Thatchers and Drennan Bordon 1, 43 points.

The league leaders are PI Thatchers and Garbolino Blackmore Vale Gold on 91 points from Daiwa Dorking in 3rd with 89.

Coach thrilled at title win

YOUNGSTERS in Shaftesbury’s Under 12s football team are celebrating after winning the Dorset Youth League Division 3 title.

Their success echoes that of the men’s team, who secured promotion to the Southern League South & West Division.

Under 12s coach Rob Lucas said: “Every player has shown immense dedication and skill throughout the season, and it’s a testament to their hard work paying off.

“The commitment and encouragement from the parents has been extraordinary.

Women get season underway

THE Sherborne Golf Club ladies section flexed their irons in their first major competition of the year, the Spring Closed.

Four trophies were played for:

n The Lyn Williams Trophy (best nett HI 0-35.3) was won by Kate Cornell.

n The Bunnies Trophy (best gross HI 28.5 - 54) was won by Jane Close.

YOUTH SOCCER

“Their unwavering support has been a driving force behind our success, and we couldn’t have done it without them.”

The club would also like to acknowledge the support of sponsors such as Alex Hill from Wiltshire Wood Flooring.

The Under 12s will be playing 11-a-side games next season and are looking for new players.

Parents and carers of youngsters who may want to play for the club, should contact Rob Lucas on 07857 303318.

YOUTH ANGLING

Austin’s huge haul of carp

TEN juniors took part in the fourth round of the Dorchester & District Angling Society Juniors points match series.

The weather was cold and overcast as the participants went about catching as many carp as they could during the four-hour match.

Match winner, with a weight of 167lb 9oz, was Austin Scott-Kennedy – pictured – who now leads the championship with 79 points.

Not far behind in second was reigning champion, Jack Copp, with 162lb 4oz.

In third with 151lb 5oz was Jack Cryer.

The next junior event is at Harbourbridge Lake in

Chickerell tomorrow (Saturday, May 11).

Details are available on the junior section’s website at ddasjuniors.co.uk

Information on the Todber Manor Fishery can be found at todbermanor.co.uk

For junior information, email juniors.sec@d-das.com, and for membership information visit www.d-das.com

n The Bronze Scratch Cup (best gross HI 20.5 - 28.4) was won by Meredith Christopher.

n The Freke Scratch Cup (best gross HI 0 - 20.4) was won by Kate Cornell.

LADIES GOLF

Ladies captain Patricia Rawlins (left) presents the Freke Scratch Cup to Kate Cornell

Shaftesbury’s Under 12s won Dorset Youth League Division 3

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SILVER CREST STEAM floor mop, hard floors and carpets. Excellent condition. £25. Tel:- 01935 872459.

NUTRIBULLET (never used) £30, 01747-590592

KARAOKE TV STAND, with FREE TV. £30.00 Tel: 07771-795442

LAKELAND MY KITCHEN Dehydrator. with instructions. £10.00 Tel: 01935-850634

PORTABLE FLUORESCENT LIGHTING. 66 and 148 cms. £20. 07977-587573

ASH TREE - over 6’ tall, just in leaf. Well-rooted in large black Tesco pot. £10 (+£2 for pot) STREET 01458-443264

PETITE STAR TRAVEL cot good condition £25.00. Tel.07899 952448

CURFEW INCUBATOR in working order 4 egg trays and 3 spare. £50 ono. phone 07743-731685

CHANDELLIER BLACK GLASS 5 lights french style beautiful crystals very smart £50 bargain 07899-691847

GENTS BIKE, Faulcon Interceptor, 23” frame, 16speed shimano gears, GWO. £20. Tel: 07836-329441

Dinton Area

WOLF ELECTRIC PATIO, drive and decking cleaner brush. As new £35. 01258-860577

PEPPER PLANTS 75p. Collect Marston Magna. 01935 850647

FISHING BOOKS for sale. Tel: 07399-877760

CANE CONSERVATORY 2 seater settee and 2 matching arm chairs £50 tel 07596-787975

3XFAIRWAY SERIES GOLF

CLUBS. 3, 7 & 9. Callaway Golf Clubs. 3&5. Woods. £10 each. 01935 476815 (Sherborne)

VICTORIAN MAHOGANY DRESSER. Top section removable for ease of transport. New owner to collect. Free to good home 07771-349263

TIMBER OFFCUTS,some treated . various sizes/lengths.aprox,van load free to remove, 01258473460. 07891-686275. Stur.newton.

PHILIPS HOSTESS TROLLEY with 4 glass dishes £40 ono Tel: 01963-31739

BROTHER AX-10 PORTABLE electric typewriter & manual £35 ono Tel:07927-858639

BOSCH JET WASH with accessories good condition hardly used £50 01963-31930

ORVIS OVAL MEMORY FOAM dog bed with bolster in good condition £35. Tisbury area 01747 873103

LARGE WOODEN GEORGE VTH box with lid - 34” wide (86cms) x 20 “ Deep (51cms) x 15” (38cms) high. Heavy with key. £20ono 01747 685664

PINE DINING TABLE. Sits 6-8. very good condition. £50. Bradford Abbas. 07789-343532

BARGAIN KING SIZE BED TOPPER, excellent condition, did not suit my lower back. Unused. Cost £125. Will Accept £50.00 Tel: 01963-31930

VELUX SUNPIPE NEW PITCH Roof Complete Unused £50.00 no offers 07840-986402

CANTILEVER PARASOL. Crank mechanism 290cms when open , 6 steel ribs, protective cover and base . Cream colour. £50. 01935-812545

2 NEW SMALL PET PILLOWS filled with alpaca fleece and removable covers £20 each, 01725-552061

HARD WOOD GARDEN TABLE. 3ft X 3ft, 4 matching chairs. As new. £50. Tel: 01963-846407 buyer collects

CLORIS ADULT EXERCISE trampoline. 100cm diameter. Handle to hold. Hardly used £25 Shaftesbury. 01747-852494

2 x ARMCHAIRS, plain patter, Beige in colour. Fire regulation, buyer to collect. £48 for both 07483 875814

MOTORHOME/CARAVAN accessories. Thule wheel chocks/ levelling ramps. £15, Milenco grip mats. 74cm x 25cm. £10, East Knoyle. 07790-409015

CHINA CABINET, £45.00

Health & Wellbeing

Red clover a gentle but powerful herb

by Fiona Chapman

AT last, it seems to be warming up a bit – if you manage to get out of the wind. I go out every day to look at where I have planted all my wildflowers and herbs and feel depressed. I think the endless rain has rotted everything. All that is coming up are thistles, nettles, and buttercups. My wild garlic patch is patchy and the new English bluebells I planted have got lost in cleavers and grass.

My husband wanders around muttering that I could have avoided it all if I had kept the whole thing mowed to within an inch of its life – which, yes, I could have done, but what about the wildlife?

It is an exciting time of year – spring, and as I tramp around Dorset, I am noticing lots of medicinal plants beginning to come out.

The leaves of the Meadowsweet can just be seen.

The Hawthorne (May) is beginning to flower. The Elder trees have small immature flowers. Mint and Cat Mint are coming up. In my garden – as opposed to wildflower patches – Lily of the Valley–Convallaria majalis – is out, for the heart – a schedule 20 –poisonous– herb. Burdock leaves are growing bigger overnight as are the leaves of Comfrey and Borage. Yarrow and what I hope are California

poppy leaves are appearing. In one of the bare patches that spent most of the winter underwater, I have cleared the few nettles and thistles that haven’t drowned and sown clover.

Trifolium pratense, or red clover, is a lovely gentle, but powerful herb. The coumarins in the plant help to thin the blood and it has an affinity with the glands of the body, aiding lymphatic congestion and breaking down cysts. This thinning action is good for high cholesterol and general circulation with claims that it

improves nutrition to the brain. It is particularly good for dry skin conditions, including psoriasis, dermatitis, urticaria and eczema. Red Clover is used to calm the nervous system and for hormone regulation. The flowers are mainly used, and you can have it as a tea or in a tincture.

I shall be watching closely and guarding it carefully as when my husband gets onto that mower, which, admittedly is rare, everything in the garden cowers. My longed-for herbal paradise that I planted is, I think, going to be a bit of a pipe dream,

Red clover can help with high cholesterol and dry skin conditions

Health & Wellbeing

Meditations in nature: Beneath the flowering cherry blossom

by Susanna Curtin

THERE is no doubt in my mind that flowers have power. They play such an important role in our lives. From the buttercups, dandelion clocks and daisy chains that occupy our childhood games to the symbolic gift of flowers to represent love. Their beauty, fragrance and diversity never cease to bring colour to our lives.

So far this year we have seen snowdrops, crocuses and daffodils, and the bluebells will be out soon. But for now, it is the turn of the flowering trees that mark the height of spring and fill our hearts with joy. It all began with the delicate white petals of the blackthorn lighting up the hedgerows with white brush strokes. Now in April, it

is the turn of the cherry blossom that adorns our streets and gardens. As I write this from my office window, I can see the delicate pink buds of my own trees that are just beginning to unfurl in the warmth of the sun.

A few Aprils ago, I found myself working in Japan right in the midst of the Japanese Hanami, the Cherry Blossom Festival. Although I stayed in central Tokyo, the street outside my apartment was lined with flowering cherry trees – known as Sakura in Japanese. Day or night, walking under the thick pink and white blossom was an ethereal experience, like walking through a sweetsmelling mist. When the breeze picked up, I was showered in clouds of velvet petals – quite

extraordinary. I have never before, or since, seen such incredible blossoms as those in Japan. The density of the blooms, the size and abundance of trees, some hundreds of years old, and the colours and almond fragrance was beyond words.

Walking through Tokyo’s top Sakura destination, Ueno park, I remember seeing the hive of activity underneath the flowering boughs of the Sakura. Hanami, which means ‘flower viewing’, is an ancient tradition of meeting and partying under the cherry trees. Everywhere I looked people were stopping to admire a single blossom or picnicking under the canopies. Celebrations and gatherings continued into the evenings when the trees were lit with different coloured lanterns.

Susie Curtin once found herself working in Japan during Hanami, the Cherry Blossom Festival

samurai and also the kamikaze pilots of the Second World War. Japan is rich in Buddhist and Shinto legends about nature, and trees particularly have great cultural significance. Spirits are said to live within old and beautiful trees, and famous old specimens are encircled with rope – called shimenawa. Anyone who cuts them down or mistreats them will be met with misfortune – a belief that might have saved our very own Sycamore Gap tree and others like it.

The practice of Hanami dates back to the eighth century and, to this day, represents the fragility and beauty of life. Cherry trees only bloom for a short time and just when they are looking their best, their petals start to fall, serving as a reminder that although life is beautiful, it is also ephemeral and short, and so they are also symbolic of death. For this reason, they are a motif for the short but colourful life of the

Flowering trees are not just a feast for our eyes, they also provide vital nectar for our bees, moths and butterflies which play a crucial role in pollinating numerous other plant species. They also help to purify the air in urban settings such as Tokyo. Now, enjoying my very own cherry blossom, I look back at those times during Hanami with fondness. How lovely that a flowering tree can bring people together to celebrate nature and provide a moment of mindfulness. As the delicate petals fall to the ground, they provoke us to live in the present and to appreciate the beauty of life and nature before it slips away.

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

MINI ONE, ‘03 plate, MOT Dec 24, £900 ONO: 07770-885632 / 01747-861432

MGF160 TROPHY, SCORN.

Call for further details. Tel: 07508-230574

STORAGE BARN available to rent. 75ft X 45ft. Ideal for vehicles, tractors, builders etc. SP8-5LX. Tel: 07967-641382

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

OLD, INTERESTING & CLASSIC CARS wanted pre 1990s Any condition including unfinished projects Cash/Transfer

Please Phone Paul 07890 096907

CITROEN RELAY VAN, 2010. SWB, MOT 21.3.25, 120,000 miles. Reliable van. £2,350. 07966 550081

FORD FIESTA 2004, 7 months MOT, SORN, 76k miles, £575.00 ONO Tel: 07542-809264 STORAGE FOR CARAVANS, boats and cars at Enford Farm near Blandford. 01258 450050 / 07704 813025

2013 FORD TRANSIT TIPPER

1 owner from new mileage 73267 No VAT MOT until 1/9/24 2 keys Good service history £7,900 Tel 07813-373277

BRIDGE MOTORS

Wincanton Ltd. Silver Street | Wincanton | 01963 33313 www.bridgemotorswincanton.co.uk

2021 (21) Abarth 595 1.4 T-Jet Ltd Edition Monster Yamaha, 7000 Miles, Blue/Black 17” Alloys, Apple & Android Car Play, Full History, £1000 In Upgrades...........................................................................................£15995

2020 (70) Vauxhall Crossland X Griffin 1.2T , Only 4000 Miles, Met Grey, £12495

2017 (67) BMW 118D Sport, 46,000 Miles, BMW Service History, Alloys, Sat Nav £12495

2017 (67) DS 3 1.2 Puretech Givenchy Le MakeUp Ltd Edition, 2 Owners, 45,000 Miles, Full Leather......................................................................£7695

2015 (65) Mercedes C200 Petrol AMG Line Premium Auto, 66,000 Miles, Dark Blue Met, Full Leather, Light Grey Trim, Sat Nav....£13495 2015 (65) BMW X1 18D 2.0 Sport SDrive Auto, BMW History, Full Black Leather, Climate, Heated Seats, Park Assist, Met Blue, Over £4000 In Options.............................................................................................£13495

2015 (65) Kia ProCeed 1.0 T-GDI DT-Line, 3dr, 2 Owners, 91,000 Miles, Sat Nav, Alloys, Red.................................................£6495

2014 (64) Renault Megane 1.5 DCI Dynamique, 2 Owners, 79,000 Miles, White...............................................................................................................£

2013 (63) Renault Captur 1.5 DCI Energy Expression + Convenience, 2 Owners, 83,000 Miles, ........................................................................£4995

2013 (13) VW Move Up, 5dr, 50,000 Miles, Black ......................................£

Miles, Grey, ...........£ 2013 (63) VW Golf 2.0 GTI 2 Owners 35,000 Miles.....................£

Garage

Bodyshop

Bodyshop

Collections

hill start assist, 23,600 miles...........................................£12850

2018 (68) Dacia Duster 1.5DCi Nav+ SUV 5dr. 110bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, high seating, big boot, sat nav, parking camera & sensors, cruise control, upto 60mpg, 39,900 miles................................................................................£9250

2013 (63) Ford Fiesta 1.0T EcoBoost Titanium X 5dr. 125bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, Free tax, 60mpg, ½ leather, heated seats, parking sensors, auto lights & wipers, cruise, cambelt replaced, 11,900 miles....................................£8650

2018 (18) Ford Kuga 1.5T EcoBoost Titanium SUV 5dr. 150bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, high seats, big boot, sat nav, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, hill start assist, 32,500 miles...............................................£12250

2017 (67) Ford Kuga 1.5TDCi Titanium Nav Automatic SUV 5dr. 120bhp, diesel, 6 speed automatic gearbox, high seating, big boot, sat nav, park sensors, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, hill start assist, 38,500 miles..................£12450

2014 (64) Ford Transit Connect 1.6TDCi 240 L2 Van. 115bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, No VAT to pay, 3 seats, tailgate & twin side doors, Bluetooth, park sensors, cruise control, 82,700 miles, No VAT to pay.........................................£8500

2017 (17) Nissan Juke 1.2DIG-T N-Connecta SUV 5dr. 115bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, sat nav, parking camera, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, hill start assist, 49,500 miles..................................................................................£8750

2014 (14) Renault Captur 1.5DCi Dynamique Nav SUV 5dr. 90bhp, diesel, 5 speed manual gearbox, high seating, sat nav, cruise, auto light & wipe, cambelt replaced, FSH, Free tax, 76mpg, 159,000 miles.........................................DUE SOON

2015 (15) Renault Megane 1.5DCi Expression + Sport Tourer Estate 5dr. 110bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, Free tax, upto 80mpg, cruise control, hill start assist, cambelt replaced at 79k miles, 85,600 miles.................................£5450

2010 (10) Skoda Fabia 2, 1.4TDi Estate 5dr. 80bhp, diesel, 5 speed manual gearbox, only 35,200 miles, £35 road tax, upto 60mpg, cambelt replaced, only 35,200 miles....................................................................................................£4950

2016 (66) Vauxhall Corsa Van 1.3CDTi 3dr. 95bhp, diesel, 5 speed manual gearbox, selling on behalf of a customer, only 41,600 miles ....................................... DUE IN MID MAY £6000 + VAT (£7200)

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

2017 (17) Vauxhall Astra 1.4 SRi 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, cruise control, auto lights

IN MEMORIAM

Stuart

Kingston

13.05.1974 - 06.04.2023

Cherished memories of Stu on his 50th Birthday Loved Always

PUBLIC NOTICES

CAR PARKING SPACE, GILLINGHAM. Close to Town Centre/Station. Tel: 07986-529830

Licensing Act 2003

Notice of application for the GRANT of a PREMISES

LICENCE Proposed licensable activities: Sale of alcohol (off premises)

Name of applicant: WINE GOODS LTD

Address of Premises: UNIT 9A, CAMELOT CENTRE, WINCANTON, SOMERSET Post Code: BA9 9JB Date by which Responsible Authorities and other persons may make representations: 31/05/2024 A record of the application made to the Licensing Authority will be kept on a register at the address given below and the register may be inspected during normal office hours. All representations regarding this application MUST BE IN WRITING and sent to: Somerset Council Licensing Department The Council OfficesBrympton Way Yeovil Somerset BA20 2HT Or email: licensing.south@somerset.gov.ukIt is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application and is subject to an unlimited fine on summary conviction for the offence.

GILLINGHAM TOWN COUNCIL TOWN COUNCILLOR VACANCIES

1 Vacancy for Town South Ward

1 Vacancy for the Ham Ward

1 Vacancy for the Rural Ward

Join our friendly and forward-thinking Town Council if you would like to:

Play a part in making decisions affecting your area. Get more involved in your community. Influence the way local services are provided. Further information about being a Councillor can be found at www.gillinghamdorset-tc.gov.uk

Application forms are available via the website: www.gillinghamdorset-tc.gov.uk/recruitment or by contacting the Town Hall 01747 823588 gtc@gillinghamdorset-tc.gov.uk

Completed application forms must be received by 1.00 pm on Monday 20 May 2024

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICE LICENSING ACT 2003

Notice is given that Carl Thomson has applied to Dorset Councilfor a new premises licence in respect of The Burger Box, Unit TB2, The Grainstore, Blandford DT11 7EG for late night refreshment and the provision of alcohol generally between the hours of Monday to Thursday 10:00 – 23:00 and Friday 10:00 through until Sunday 23:00. 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. 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 for the offence is unlimited.

DATE: 30/04/2024

“IMPORTANT NOTICE”

“THE FINAL AGM OF THE TOWN MEADOW GROUP”(TMG) will be taking place on WEDNESDAY THE 22ND OF MAY 7.30 PM at the Vicarage School Room in Gillingham. The existing TMG will be disbanding on the night. Gillingham Town Council have now taken over the running of the Town Meadow as of the 1st of April 2024. We would also like to welcome as many of the “Friends of the Meadow” as possible to join us, so we can publicly thank them for their continued financial support with their regular contributions. Refreshments will be available. Thank you.

The Friends of Blandford Community Hospital

will be holding their 67th

ANNUAL

GENERAL MEETING

At 6.30pm on Wednesday 3rd July 2024 at Blandford Community Hospital, Milldown Road, Blandford Forum

ALL

ARE WELCOME

For further information telephone: The Friends Office – 01258 450095

Elections 2024

Nominations

Announcements

DEATHS

Barry Marks

Passed away peacefully at home on 16th April surrounded by his family, aged 77. A dearly loved husband, father, ‘Pops’ and friend. A Celebration of Life service will be held at St Marys Church, Motcombe on Friday 17th May at 11.00am. No black attire. No flowers please but donations, if desired, for Weldmar Hospicecare and St Mary’s Church, Motcombe. C/o L C Hill & Son Funeral Directors, Water Street, Mere, Warminster, BA12 6DZ.

KING

John Ernest

Peacefully on 27th April 2024 in Newstone House Care Home, Sturminster Newton, aged 90 years, of Milborne Port. Beloved Husband of Valerie. Adored Dad of Rachel and Amanda. Cherished Grandad and Great-Grandad.

A dear Brother, Uncle and friend, who will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Private cremation. Service of Thanksgiving at St. John’s Church, Milborne Port on Monday 13th May at 2.00pm. Donations if desired for Diabetes UK can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk or cheques made payable to the charity can be sent c/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Mons, High St, Henstridge BA8 0RB. Tel 01963 362570

Peter Moody

Pete of Stalbridge sadly passed away at Dorset County Hospital on 20th April, aged 66 years. Funeral Service at Yeovil Crematorium on Friday 17th May 2024 at 11.20am. Please wear bright colours, Peter loved colour. Family flowers only please, but donations if desired for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance may be sent to Grassby and Close Funeral Service, 4 Innes Court, Sturminster Newton, DT10 1BB, Tel: 01258 471024 or made online by visiting www.grassbyclose-funeral.co.uk

Mitchell

Michael Patrick Julian

Died peacefully on 28th April in Lancaster Royal Infirmary. Our dearly loved son and brother. Funeral details will be available in due course.

COFFIN

Dennis Edward – (Den)

Passed away peacefully on 27th April 2024, aged 79 years, of Henstridge.

A dearly loved Brother, Uncle, Great Uncle and Partner. Funeral service at St. Nicholas’ Church, Henstridge on Monday 20th May at 1.00pm followed by interment. Please wear something colourful in memory of Dennis. Family flowers only please. Donations if desired for St. Nicholas Church can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk or cheques made payable to Henstridge PCC can be sent c/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Mons, High St, Henstridge BA8 0RB. Tel 01963 362570

Michael Robert Pester

Passed away suddenly at his home in Mere aged 91yrs after a long period of ill health.

Much loved by his brother Claude and late brothers and sisters Sheila, George, Barbara, and Mary, he will be sadly missed by Claude and all other family members and friends. Funeral at 2pm Thursday 23rd May at St Michael’s Church Mere. Family flowers only, donations in memory of Mike to be shared by Mere Surgery and Wiltshire Air Ambulance. Funeral Directors L.C. Hill & Son, Water Street, Mere, BA12 6DZ. Tel 01747 860361

Jean Georgina Grace Whitehead

sadly passed away on the 22nd of April 2024 at Salisbury District Hospital aged 88. Any enquiries to Chris White Funeral Director’s, Wilton, SP2 0JS. Tel: 01722-744691

NICK DARBY

On 20th April, 2024, peacefully passed away at home after a short illness, aged 67 years.

A much loved partner to Carole, dad to Gemma and Adam, brother, brother in law, uncle and friend to many. He will be sorely missed by us all. Thank you to all those involved in his care. Private funeral service has taken place. Donations, if desired, for Weldmar Hospicecare and 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. Please make any cheques payable to the individual charity

WEEKS Judy Ann

Passed away today (7th May) at Dorset County Hospital. Date of funeral yet to be arranged. All enquiries c/o Colin J Close Funeral Service, Peel Close, Salisbury Road, Blandford DT11 7JU. Tel: 01258 453133

ALFRED JOHN KING

“John”

passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on 30th April 2024 aged 95 years. Beloved husband of the late Margaret, a loving father to June, Pauline, Rosemary, Gillian and David, grandfather and great grandfather. He will be sadly missed by family and friends. Any enquiries to Merefield and Henstridge F/D. Family flowers only please. Donations for Weldmar Hospicecare and St Luke’s Church, West Orchard can be made online at www.mhfd.co.uk or sent to them at Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532. Please make any cheques payable to Merefield & Henstridge Ltd.

LEGG Doris Sheila Joan

DEATHS

DEATHS

Passed away peacefully at the West Mendip Hospital, Glastonbury on 12th April 2024 aged 90 years. Much loved wife of Norman, who passed away on 5th July 2023, Mum of Peter and Marcia, Grandmother to Chantel and Mother-in-Law to Gerry. She will be fondly remembered by all who knew her. Thank you to friends for your cards and many kind messages of sympathy.

Michael

O’Neill

Mike passed away peacefully on 29th April 2024 at Yeovil Hospital, aged 75 years. Much loved husband, father and grandfather. Funeral Service at Yeovil Crematorium on Friday 24th May at 11.20am. Family flowers only please, but donations if desired for Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance, may be sent to Grassby & Close Funeral Service, 4 Innes Court, Sturminster Newton, DT10 1BB, Tel: 01258 471024 or made online by visiting www.grassbyclose-funeral.co.uk

ANN OSMOND

Ann died peacefully in Dorset County Hospital on 19th April 2024, aged 86 years, of Hermitage, Sherborne. Beloved Wife of the late Charlie. Dearly loved Mum of Christopher, Graham and Alan. Loving Nan, Granny and Great-Granny. She will be sadly missed by her family and many friends. Private Cremation. Service of Thanksgiving at St. Andrew’s Church, Leigh on Thursday 30th May at 2.30pm. Donations if desired for Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance Trust can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk or cheques made payable to the charity can be sent c/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Mons, High St, Henstridge BA8 0RB. Tel 01963 362570

PATRICIA JEAN BUTT “Trisha”

On 30th April 2024, peacefully in Salisbury District Hospital aged 85 years, of Shaftesbury. A much loved wife to Eric, mum to Bridie, Natalie, Andrew and Barry, nanny to Roisin and Shelby and foster mum to many. She will be sorely missed. A celebration of Trisha’s life takes place at Salisbury Crematorium on Wednesday 22nd May at 1.00pm. No flowers please but donations for Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance can be made online at www.mhfd.co.uk or sent to Merefield & Henstridge F/D at Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532

Ian Michael Speight

On 16th April 2024. Ian aged 84 years of Templecombe. Funeral service at Yeovil Crematorium on Wednesday 22nd May at 2pm. Family flowers only please, donations if desired for The Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Trust. C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Service, High Street, Henstridge, BA8 0RB Tel 01963 362570

HERRIDGE, ALAN

Peacefully at home on 30th April 2024, aged 83 years. Much loved husband of Veronica, father of Andrew, Jane and Dawn, beloved grandfather. Funeral service will take place at St Andrew’s Church, Milborne St Andrew on Tuesday 14th May at 3.00pm. Family flowers only, donations if desired made payable to NSPCC may be sent c/o Grassby Funeral Service, 8 Princes Street, Dorchester, DT1 1TW or can be made online by visiting www.grassby-funeral.co.uk

Please

Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse

Sherborne

Choice of Hearses available including

816817

Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817

Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310

Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817

Tel: 01963 31310

Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310 – 24 Hour Service –

Sherborne Tel: 01935

816817

Wincanton Tel: 01963 – 24 Hour Service

plans available

Pre-payment plans available

Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse

Pre-payment plans

Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817

Please contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated

Please contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.

816817

Please contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any

Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310

Your music. Your flowers. Your theme. Your choice

01258 453 425 • BLANDFORD FORUM LESLEYSHANDBLANDFORD.CO.UK

SITUATIONS WANTED

S/E BOOKKEEPER. Available 1 day/week or for Monthly/quarterly processing. Areas West of Wincanton. Tel: 07849-467667

EXPERIENCED SELF EMPLOYED CARER looking for sits or nights. All documentation. Call 07859 337637

QUALIFIED TEACHER, offers tuition - SATS/ Entrance exams. GCSE/A Levels. Gillingham. Tel: 07986-529830

Recruitment

SEAMSTRESS REQUIRED. Regular Menswear Alterations Work. SQUIRES OF SHAFTESBURY. Contact Tim/ Cathy Tel: 01747-852455

STORES PERSON (FULL TIME) required for agricultural engineering firm based near Shaftesbury. Good rates of pay for the right candidate. Must be punctual, polite and have a can-do attitude. A background in agriculture would be advantageous. Call 07967 208754 for more details.

DRIVERS WANTED

Ice cream van company looking to expand our team. Weekdays, weekends, full time, part time. Immediate start, days to suit./25 years + for insurance purposes. Call Sam 07957244670

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 /IAPS

Driver Required

COORDINATOR (OEC) (INCLUDING TEN TORS AND DUKE OF EDINBURGH)

PA R T T I M E , T E R M T I M E O N LY

REQUIRED FROM SEPTEMBER 2024 OUTDOOR EDUCATION

Leweston School is seeking an organised, efficient and friendly outdoor education coordinator to take the lead on the organisation, administration and delivery of outdoor education activities at Leweston School.

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.

The successful candidate will be responsible for completing all administration for TT and DofE as well as all expedition planning including mapping routes, RAs, campsite booking, transport, equipment lists, etc. They will also be responsible for arranging and attending all events for training students field craft, navigation, first aid, rules, etc and liaising with outside providers and agencies.

Number of days required: Approximately 60 days of field training, expedition leading, in-school admin and student instruction.

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 pack please visit our website: https://www.leweston.co.uk/explore-leweston/our-people/work-with-us

Closing date: Friday 7th June 2024

Interviews: W/C Monday 10th June 2024

Leweston is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. An enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check will be required. A

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

Recruitment

DORSET TIMBER FRAMING LTD

require Site Carpenters to install bespoke Oak Frame Buildings. Must have ability to carry out all aspects of carpentry to high standard with attention to detail. Oak frame experience useful but not essential as training will be provided. Email CV or for more information –enquiries@dorsettimberframing.co.uk

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BRAMALL GARDENS

requires a new team member to join our established Landscape Company, initially with our grass cutting team.

Hard work and reliability are essential requirements, along with a clean driving licence To apply to join our hard working team in Marnhull Dorset, please ring 01258 820394

Landscape Labourers

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.

SELF EMPLOYED EXPERIENCED GROUNDWORKERS/PLANT OPERATORS

We are looking for an experienced Groundworker who can also operate a 360° Excavator for local interesting contracts, working as part of a team. Applicants must be con dent in their ability to carry out all aspects of groundwork to a good standard with attention to detail. We o er a safe working environment with good rates of pay. Local work and an opportunity of long-term employment with a friendly family run business.

If you are that exible, skilled groundworker who can also operate plant to a good standard please call, Martin on 01258 455219 or email admin@farwellplanthire.co.uk

A.P.STEPHENS AND SON require a full time Bricklayer and Labourer, driving license needed. Call Luke 07818-297152

WEEKEND CLEANING and ironing help required DT11 Tel: 07774 612578

A LOVELY OPPORTUNITY FOR A

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HOUSEKEEPER IN A SCENIC RURAL SETTING IN DORSET (DT11 0EZ)

A friendly family of four, including children, is looking for someone who has a keen eye for detail, an enthusiastic, ‘can do’ attitude and who loves dogs to join the team as their housekeeper.

Duties will include – general tidying and cleaning, laundry & ironing, keeping storage areas, fridge, and cupboards etc organised, household errands such as collecting parcels, dropping off dry cleaning, occasional household shopping, changing beds, cleaning bathrooms, and generally keeping the house in a clean, tidy condition.

The position will suit someone who is looking for 3-4 days a week for 5 hours a day, with occasional weekend hours which will be paid or taken in lieu of those in the week. Flexibility is possible for the right candidate.

If you are interested in joining this happy family and contributing to the smooth running of their lovely home in the heart of Dorset, please email Beth Young at locketts@lockettsfarm.com with your CV and a covering letter

Port Regis is a delightful preparatory school, for day and boarding children aged 2-13, in Shaftesbury, Dorset

Due to the success of our Pre-Prep and rise in pupil numbers, we are seeking to recruit to the following roles in our Pre-School and Reception Years for September 2024:

RECEPTION TEACHER

EYFS ASSISTANT

LEARNING ASSISTANT

Applications are invited from candidates who are forward-thinking and bighearted, who model great drive and enthusiasm.

The successful candidates can expect competitive rates of pay and benefits; and to join an exceptional working environment and staff team .

For full details of the roles and application procedure, please visit our websiteportregis.com/vacancies

Early applications encouraged

Port Regis (Charity No: 306218) is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful applicant s will be required to undertake an Enhanced DBS and safer recruitment vetting checks.

Best in the business: Nominations open for county awards

NOMINATIONS are open for the 2024 Dorset Business Awards.

The event, organised by the Dorset Chamber, aims to recognise the best of business across the county, with 10 categories now open for entries.

Chamber chief executive, Ian Girling, kicked off the awards with guests, former winners and festival partners at the Dorset Museum and Gallery in Dorchester.

Two new categories are included this year: Social Impact, and Digital and Technology.

The contest is returning for its second year following a sell-out event in 2023 coming after a four-year hiatus during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Ian said: “The Dorset Business Awards are go. We have so many exceptional businesses in Dorset who deserve to be recognised for

their innovation, entrepreneurial spirit and contribution to the local economy.

“The prestigious Dorset Business Awards are the perfect way to not only acknowledge their excellence but are also a fantastic celebration of the thriving, diverse and supportive business community we have in the county.

“Our independent panel of judges includes experts and leaders from across all sectors, looking to review the entries and celebrate the leaders in their field.”

Award categories at the 2024 Dorset Business Awards are:

n Best New Business Award

n Best Place to Work Award

n Community Partnership Award

n Customer Experience Award

n Digital and Technology Award

n Environmental Impact Award

n Export Business Award

n Future Leader Award

n Scaleup Award

n Social Impact Award

The awards are open to all business in Dorset and are part of the Dorset Business Festival 2024, a fortnight-long event featuring networking, thought leadership and celebrations during an itinerary based around an Expo, Conference and the awards.

It follows the success of last year’s inaugural three-day event, when more than 1,000 businesses took part.

Lester Aldridge is the Premier Festival Partner for the second year running, with Blue Sky Financial Planning, Bournemouth & Poole College, Dorset Council and YMCA Bournemouth returning as Festival Partners.

EV specialists ElectriX has also come on board as a partner for this year’s event.

Grant Esterhuizen, partner at Lester Aldridge, said: “As the

Premier Partner of Dorset Business Festival, Lester Aldridge celebrates the diverse tapestry of businesses in our region.

“We believe in the power of this collective diversity to drive innovation, prosperity and positive impact. Supporting the festival underscores our commitment to fostering growth and collaboration across all sectors.”

Winners will be announced at a glittering awards ceremony on October 10 at the Hilton Hotel in Bournemouth as the grand finale of the festival.

Entries opened on May 1 and close on June 13 and can be submitted online, via the chamber website.

The awards are free to enter and are open to all organisations, across Dorset. Visit dorsetchamber.co.uk/ awards to enter, meet the judges and to find out more Dorset Business Awards.

End of an era as RBL club closes

THE Royal British Legion Club in Sturminster Newton has closed after more than a century serving punters.

Drinkers toasted the final serving at the Bath Road venue on April 28.

The closure is down to the building – affectionately known as ‘The Hut’ – falling into a state of disrepair, with remedial works estimated at about £100,000.

“While it may look, on the outside, reasonably sound, under the skin it is a 110-plus

year old, ex-military wooden hut,” a spokesperson said.

“The estimated cost of work needed was in excess of £100,000 and with the underlying structure being so old and worn out, it was not a realistic business option to spend that sort of money.”

The club was home to the town cinema on regular occasions and hosted many a school dance, wedding reception, funeral wake, family party and town events.

Now it is hoped the club

may re-emerge in the coming months.

A planning application has been submitted to Dorset Council for six homes on the Bath Road site, and it is hoped the sale of the land could finance a return at a new site, in a new building.

“Until anything is finalised, we can say nothing more,” the spokesperson said.

“One point that is 100% guaranteed is that the Legion Branch, the part of the Legion that takes care of service and

ex-service welfare, remembrance, the Poppy Appeal and generally the charitable side of the Legion’s activities in the town, will continue.

“Finally, we would like to say thank you to everyone who has supported the club over the years, and a huge thank you to the various members of the community who have served on the club committee over the years and worked as members of staff behind the bar and behind the scenes.”

Judges at the launch of the 2024 Dorset Business Awards

PHOTO: Dorset Chamber

Alabama rot life-threatening but rare in the UK

by Lynn Broom Longmead Veterinary Practice

ALABAMA rot was so named in the 1980s because some of the first cases were identified in greyhounds at a race track in Alabama, USA, and showed progressive ulceration of the lower legs or feet. It is more accurately named Cutaneous and Renal Glomerular Vasculopathy (CRGV) because it affects the blood vessels of the skin and kidneys.

The cause is unknown and is still being investigated and appears to be related to certain weather conditions and certain environments such as woodland areas, with most cases (91%) occurring between November and May. Possible causes are toxins released by E. coli, a bacteria causing similar lesions in fish and Leptospira organisms.

The Royal Veterinary College reports that dogs affected by CRGV typically present with non-traumatic skin ulcers on their digits, pads, paws or feet, although some dogs have shown ulcers(s) on their head, muzzle, tongue, flank and belly. The ulcers vary in severity and can look as simple as a small cut or area of redness that could be mistaken for a cut pad, bruise or sting. It is important to remember that most skin ulcers will not be caused by CRGV.

Kidney symptoms can develop within one to nine days after initial infection and can present with lethargy, decreased appetite, excessive drinking/ urinating and vomiting. Not all dogs with skin lesions develop kidney issues. Skin lesions can vary, so identification in the early stages can be difficult.

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treatment of kidney-related symptoms is required to provide the best chance of resolution of the damage caused but, sadly, may not prevent permanent damage.

Definitive diagnosis is very difficult because no noninvasive diagnostic test is available. Presumed diagnosis is based on the appearance of skin lesions and blood test results. Confirmation of the disease is made by kidney biopsy postmortem.

Although this is a lifethreatening disease it is still relatively rare in the UK. In total there have been 324 confirmed cases in dogs since 2012 with 15 this year. Considering the dog population in the UK in 2024 is 13.5 million, this is still a very small number. As a comparison, it is estimated that 60,000 dogs a year are treated by vets for injuries caused by sticks and a number of these are fatal.

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Labradors are among the breeds at the highest risk of Alabama rot, but this may just be because they are a type of dog more frequently walked in wooded areas

your dog’s legs and feet after a walk, although it is not known if this reduces the risk of developing lesions. Virtually all counties throughout the UK have reported at least one case, so there are no areas you should specifically avoid. If you see any suspicious lesions or symptoms, please contact your vet.

There is no higher risk in female or male dogs or in old or young dogs, but the highest risk breed groups are hounds, gun dogs and pastoral dogs, including Labradors, Spaniels and Hungarian Vizslas. This may be more related to the types of dog more frequently walked in wooded areas rather than an increased risk in these particular breeds.

While it is important to be aware of this condition and to know how to act if you suspect it, it is still very unlikely your dog will be affected, and it should not stop you going out and enjoying a walk with them.

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Is it too late to train my dog?

by Raychel Hill

FOR many dog owners, the question of whether it’s too late to train their dog may arise, especially if their pet is displaying undesirable behaviours or if they’ve recently adopted an older dog. The good news is that it’s rarely too late to begin training your canine companion. While it may require patience, consistency and understanding, we can teach an old dog new tricks!

One of the most important factors in training an older dog is understanding that they can still learn and change their behaviour, despite any habits they may have developed over time. Dogs are incredibly adaptable creatures, and with the right approach, even ingrained behaviours can be modified. Research has suggested that older dogs may have slowed physically and developed different motivations, but this does not mean they are unable to learn.

The first step in training an older dog is to establish clear communication and trust.

Positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewarding desired behaviours with treats, toys, praise or even the environment, can be highly effective in encouraging your dog to learn new cues or behaviours. Consistency is key – setting aside regular training sessions and sticking to a routine will help reinforce new habits and prevent confusion.

It’s also essential to tailor your training approach to your dog’s individual needs and personality. Older dogs may have physical limitations or past experiences that influence their behaviour, so patience and understanding are crucial. Taking the time to observe your dog’s reactions and adjusting your training plan accordingly can lead to more successful outcomes.

While it may take longer to see results with an older dog compared to a puppy, the bond formed through training can be incredibly rewarding. Not only does training provide mental stimulation and enrichment for your dog, it also strengthens the bond between you and your pet.

If you need assistance training an older dog – we have group classes available to dogs over six months old and offer one-to-one training, so do feel welcome to get in touch to see how I can help you.

n Raychel Hill BSc (Hons) MA CCAB APBC-CAB FABC ABTCCCAB is owner of Pet Peeves Animal Behaviour & Teaching; www.petpeevessomerset.co.uk.

MID DORSET CATS PROTECTION

Cats looking for new homes

n Smudge, four years old, grey and white. Big friendly boy, not lived indoors before, no other pets

n Polly, 14 years old, looking for retirement home. A few health issues, which are being managed

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 contact us via our website, phone or Facebook. Please provide a contact phone number so we can get in touch with you quickly if needed.

n White with tabby markings on head, back and tail, missing from Shaftesbury since March 21.

n Small black boy, with white hairs on chest,

missing from Shaftesbury since March 2.

n Black timid girl, missing from Blandford since April 5.

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 may be a lost cat that could be reunited with its owner.

n Greyish/white tabby, Gillingham, date advised April 5.

For more details, please call our helpline 01258 858644 or visit our website: cats.org.uk/blandford (Formerly Blandford & Sturminster) Sponsored by Longmead Veterinary

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Field & Stream

Ins and outs of TB testing

by Tria Stebbing

THE time has come for the hairy beasts to be tested for TB. It does not matter how many cows you have, they all have to be tested either six-monthly or yearly. We are sent a reminder in advance and if we should forget to book the test on time, we will be locked down, so not able to move any animals, and could be prosecuted.

We have prepared the cows by setting up a corral and cattle crush by the gate in their field and have been feeding them inside the enclosure to get them used to the space.

Belle and Sebastian have been nonplussed by the new set up, but Babybel has been nervous and hangs back, just watching. We have their passports ready, which are unique to the animal and hold their information, and checked

ear tags for accuracy.

The cattle crush is a gate linked to a penning system which it is hoped the cow happily walks into, the gate behind them is closed and they are held safely to be checked over. We have a different set up on the crush as we have to make allowances for the horns, so it is much wider at the top.

The cows are led into the crush and have a small patch of skin shaved, then measured with callipers for thickness, before being injected in two places, one with avian and one with bovine TB protein.

The area is so thick set that they do not flinch. If the cow is positive for TB this area of skin will develop lumps over the following few days as it reacts. This is a hugely simplified version of events but gives some idea of the procedure.

Enjoy dawn chorus at the height of the breeding season

BIRD lovers can enjoy a guided walk tomorrow (Saturday, May 11) to hear the magical dawn chorus at Bere Marsh Farm, near Shillingstone.

The event is just a few days after national Dawn Chorus Day and runs from 4.30am6.30am – early risers will be rewarded with a light breakfast from The Buzz café afterwards.

Birding expert John Lockwood will help identify birdsong unique to each species and participants will

It is an anxious wait for any keeper of cows between the two visits, and controversy surrounds the need for such an invasive testing regime.

While we have the beasts in the crush, we will give them a check-up. Check them over for sore spots, groom them on the bits we cannot otherwise reach, and we will check Belle for pregnancy.

Babybel needs a good groom, as he does not readily

come to us to be brushed, unlike the other two – he has matted dreadlocks which need attention. All of which really does depend on the cows behaving themselves for the vet. We hope we do not have a repeat performance of last year’s antics with Valentine! How lovely to see the swallows in the sky over the field, their arrival means the weather is improving – and the flies are back.

have access to areas of the Countryside Regeneration Trust (CRT) property not normally open to the public.

Last year, 25 species of birds were recorded during the event.

“Although it’s an early start, this is a unique occasion for bird lovers to experience the dawn chorus at the height of the breeding season,” said the CRT’s community engagement manager, Nick Dobbs. “There is something so inspiring about this – it’s like listening to the BBC proms in a natural setting

as the birds serenade you as we walk. Bird species start singing at different times and there’s a pattern.

“You will likely hear robins, blackbirds and thrushes first and these will later be joined by the woodpigeons, wrens, sparrows and blue tits, and other birds in the area. It’s nature’s orchestra.”

Nick said the reason behind the dawn chorus is all about territories.

“It is usually carried out by the male birds as they demonstrate to the females that

they are fit and healthy by producing the loudest songs,” he said. “They sing early because it’s too dark to look for food and there’s not enough light for most predators to spot them.”

He added: “We also recommend everyone wears sturdy waterproof footwear and we suggest bringing binoculars.”

Tickets cost £10 or £8 for CRT Friends or volunteers.

To book, visit www.thecrt. co.uk/Event/dawn-chorus-withbreakfast.

The “hairy beasts” have been getting to know the TB testing crush

Bird lovers will gather at Bere Marsh Farm, near Shillingstone, for a dawn chorus walk

Holistic ways of tackling worms

by Rebecca Price BVetMed MRCVS, Friars Moor Livestock Health

AS we move into – hopefully – warmer months we look forward to seeing more cattle and sheep out to graze. The benefits of grazing are plentiful, but it is not without risk. One of the particular concerns with grazing younger animals is worms.

A number of types of worms can affect ruminants. Lambs and calves are particularly vulnerable to gut worms. These worm eggs are ingested on grass at grazing and they grow through the lifecycle stages – larvae to adult worms – in the stomachs or intestine –depending on the type of worm. These worms then destroy the gut lining, reducing nutrient absorption into the bloodstream. Because of this they typically present with loose dung and weight loss.

We have a number of different worming products that we can use for ruminants –similar to those used for dogs,

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cats and horses. Because of the health implications of worms, the temptation is to treat all stock preventatively, but this creates problems in itself. Similar to antibiotics, we are seeing wormer resistance against a number of products.

As such we are looking to more holistic ways of management. We are lucky at Friars Moor to have a wonderful lab technician who plays a vital part in this – carrying out Worm Egg Counts on sheep and cow dung allows us to evaluate the worm burden faced by the group, and to decide on an appropriate treatment strategy. This involves many hours sat behind a microscope! This allows us to make treatment decisions and prevent over treatment, preventing the build up of resistance.

With this information we can also build up pasture maps of “clean” and “dirty” grazing. This allows us to move higher risk animals – youngstock and animals due to give birth – to the cleanest grazing. Through

rotational grazing, and cograzing with other species, we can reduce our reliance on worming products – this is important as it prevents the build up of resistance and protects soil biodiversity. Worming products not only kill parasitic worms, but other insects in the soil such as dung beetles. These are important for recycling nutrients into the soil needed for plant growth.

As a practice we carry out a lot of preventative Herd and Flock Health Plans, which build on such ideas and tailor them to suit the situation on each

individual farm. Milk contracts and Red Tractor regulate usage of such products and promote best practice, providing better welfare on farm, and safeguarding the use of such products for appropriate use in the future.

The practice is hosting a DIY Cattle Worm Egg Counting Course on Tuesday, May 21. This will provide an opportunity to learn how to carry out your own routine screening for worms using our microscopes and kit. Please get in contact with us at the practice if you are interested.

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Friars Moor Livestock Health is running a DIY Cattle Worm Egg Counting Course later this month

Changes to Agricultural Permitted Development

The Government have announced the latest round of amendments to The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development etc.) (England) which have made sweeping changes to permitted development rights on agricultural units. These amendments broadly expand on existing rights and allow more floorspace to be converted or created this leads to some exciting new opportunities for agricultural units. Andrew Tregay of Symonds & Sampson outlines the key changes.

CHANGE OF USE

Class Q:

• Inclusion of ‘former’ agricultural buildings

• Allowance of rear single-story extensions for Class Q development of up to 4m

• All new dwellings limited at 150sqm.

• New maximum number of dwellings at 10 rather than 5.

• New maximum floorspace limit increased to 1000sqm.

Class R:

• New maximum floorspace limit increased to 1000sqm (previously 500sqm).

• Allowance to convert to class F2 (outdoor sport and recreation)

• Allowance to convert to class B2 (general industrial for processing of raw goods that are produced on site)

• Allowance of change of use to agricultural training AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT

Class A

• New agricultural buildings increased from 1000sqm to 1500sqm.

• Limit on engineering operations to 1000sqm.

Class B

• Cubic content of buildings can increase by 25%, previously 20%.

• Cannot do works within curtilage of a scheduled monument.

• Whilst many of the changes expand on existing rights there have been more subtle changes that need to be considered such as space standards and access.

There are some negatives, the ability to create larger homes has been removed any you are limited to dwellings of 150sqm. Also, there was hope that Class Q would be expanded into National Landscapes however this has not materialised under these changes. Nevertheless, the changes provide an exciting opportunity for agricultural redevelopments, diversification or expansion of existing facilities.

Symonds & Sampson can offer advice on all aspects of agricultural development including Class Q conversions, farm diversification and new agricultural buildings. If you have any questions or wish to discuss opportunities for your property please do get in touch with Andrew Tregay, Head of Planning at our Sturminster Newton Office 01258 472244 or our planning experts in your nearest office.

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Raw milk is back

by Ruth Kimber

OUR milking parlour is all but complete, the variable vacuum pump control board that was causing problems appears to be fixed!

Our milk is continually tested to be able to sell to our buyer, Barbers, which makes cheese locally. Barbers’ standards are high to make sure its cheese is of a high and consistent quality.

If milk is sold as raw, it goes through additional tests. Our tests to enable us to sell our raw milk have all been completed successfully and we had our six-monthly bTB test and passed that, too.

So, we are now back to offering our Raw Unpasteurised Whole Milk once again.

It has been missed by many customers, for the flavour, and especially those with various health issues who found raw milk was very beneficial.

Tom has made the 50 acres of early grass into silage. He also managed to find a dry day to clear the slurry store, dressing the maize fields. Maize grows well with a good

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application of farmyard manure. These fields are ploughed and the muck turned under to feed the plants and prevent run off into the water courses.

The dairy cows are out by day, as are some in-calf heifers, but the continuing cold north wind is slowing down growth, with silage stores running low. We really need some warmth to get things going.

Nationally and beyond, this wet winter has taken its toll on planting crops, both in the autumn and now in spring. Many acres are still waiting, with the land still too wet to cultivate, and this will surely affect crop production later in the year. Even more important as weather patterns change, we must not allow good agricultural land to go out of food production.

Solar panels, in my view, belong on industrial roofs – we have three of ours covered, and plan for another – not prime agricultural land. Rewilding sounds okay, but to encourage field margins, corners and less productive fields and riversides

Continued on page 100

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Communicating animal welfare

Listening without judgment is important for farmers looking to engage with the public on animal welfare says agricultural communications expert Dr Amy Jackson. Speaking on a recent episode of Cornish Mutual’s Farming Focus podcast, she provides her tips for farmers looking to share their story.

“We must build bridges with the public and have them on our side if we want to do what we do,” says Amy. “As well as producing products consumers want, we must also have a social licence to farm. Otherwise, we risk more incursions, legislation, difficulties with the supply chain and business disruption.”

Animal welfare can be a contentious subject, with farmers and the public holding different perceptions of what it looks like. But Amy suggests an open and transparent approach.

“Talk about the positives and what we are doing well, but also be clear about what we are doing to improve and acknowledge we are not always perfect. Showing we are accountable and responsible, we own our issues and are transparent, and we will work on it is the golden formula for me.”

Amy also emphasises the importance of listening: “Be curious about other people’s points of view. Try to understand what people in your community, customers and society want.

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“It’s very easy to think the public doesn’t understand us. But how much do we go out and try to understand them?”

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Listen to the full episode of Cornish Mutual’s Farming Focus Podcast at https://www.cornishmutual.co.uk/news-advice/ farming-focus-podcast/ - also available via Spotify and Apple podcasts.

Farming

ON-FARM MACHINERY AUCTION

STANDING STRAW AUCTION

Saturday 18th May at 10.30am Kitwhiste Farm, Beaminster Down, Dorset

Wednesday 28th June at 6.30pm

Bindon & Pinhay

Dispersal of 4 Tractors, Telehandler, Arable & Grassland Machinery, Workshop Items, Bygones, etc.

The Grain Store, Heathfield, Rousdon, Dorset

830ac of Standing Straw

• 461ac Wheat

• 237ac Winter Barley

• 132ac Oats

Including: 1998 Deutz Agrotron 135 (6,250hrs), 1996 Deutz AgroStar 6.08 (5,873hrs), 1988 Deutz DX6.05 4wd (5,731hrs), 1987 Deutz DX3.90 4wd c/w Quicke 4300 Loader (7,064hrs), 1984 JCB 520-4 Telehandler, Lely Heavy Discs 3m Trailed Disc Harrows, Opico 6m Grass Harrows, 3m Spring Tine Cultivator, Cousins 3-Leg Subsoiler, Kuhn HR3000 Power Harrow, Dowdeswell DP100S 5f Rev. Plough, Overum Tive SA-JET 2206 6m Corn Drill, Lely 800ltr 12m Mounted Sprayer, 16’ Cambridge Roller, 8’ Twose Ballast Roller, 10t Grain Trailer, 3t & 4t Tipping Trailers, 12’ Car Trailer, Ifor Williams 8’ Livestock Trailer, Amazone ZA-X Fertiliser Spreader, Deutz KM22 Drum Mower, 7’ Telehandler Bucket, Ironwork Seep Turnover Crate – as new, Field/Yard Gates, Hand Tools, Milk Churns, Bentall Grain Bin, 1.2m Road Brush for Compact Tractor, Lawn Mowers, Strimmers, etc.

Friday 30th June at 12 noon Durweston

Travellers Rest Farm, Durweston, Blandford, Dorset

6,220 acres of Standing Straw

• 2,442ac Wheat

• 2,006ac Winter Barley

1298 acres of Standing Straw

On behalf G J Hasell & Son (Auctioneers having sold the farm) Contact Greg Ridout: 01935 382909 / 07817 517467

• 599ac Wheat

• 281ac Winter Barley

• 119ac Spring Barley

Bull

Continued from page 98

corridors for wildlife to remain diverse and spread their gene pool. Again, tree planting is great, not as whole blocks, but in hedgerows and corners, and less productive land.

We lose food security at our peril – foreign lands are not bothered if we go hungry!

Our garden is also desperate for sun, and we have many plants in the greenhouse waiting to be planted out.

The farm shop and whole site continues to thrive, so much so we had to extend the car park. Our neighbour, Martin Haskett, sent his team along with diggers and kit and had it done in no time, with little disruption to customers.

A car boot in aid of MIND will be held on Sunday, June 23, in the field at the farm shop - to enquire about pitches, speak to Naomi Kimber.

holiday. The plan is to mate them. They are having new quarters made, so will be back soon.

Oak before Ash is really apparent this year, the ash trees are not moving at all, although ash dieback may be having an effect. So, the country saying: “Oak before Ash only a splash, Ash before Oak, a jolly good soak,” predicts a dry summer! We will have to see what happens.

We have ordered our Thanksgiving and Christmas turkey poults this week, the first day olds will arrive in late May, followed by the main hatch in mid-June. How the year is marching on!

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.

RESIDENTIAL | AGRICULTURAL | COMMERCIAL

• 229ac Oats

• 70ac Oil Seed Rape

The pigs had to be moved as the car park is on the same spot as the pig pen, so they went down to the farm for a little

Opening times Tuesday-Friday 8.30am-5pm, Saturday 9.30am4.30pm.

Fertility Testing, by Synergy Farm Health Vet Olly White

Full catalogues available at symondsandsampson.co.uk

ON-FARM DISPERSAL AUCTION

Saturday 29th July

With spring calving underway, thoughts will soon be turning to getting cows back incalf. Bulls play a crucial role, and their fertility is often assumed, but in reality 1 in 4 bulls are deemed sub-fertile. This means that despite being able to achieve pregnancies, when exposed to an appropriate number of healthy, cycling cows, they are unlikely to be able to achieve the required target of 95% of cows calving in 9-10 weeks. Sub-fertility can be caused by factors such as low libido, sperm defects or any mobility/conformational issue that affect ability to serve. It is important to remember that bull fertility can easily change year-on-year.

Buckham Down Farm, Beaminster DT8 3SH

Dispersal sale of 4 Tractors, Farm Machinery, Bygones and Miscellaneous

To reduce the risk of putting out a sub-fertile bull it is recommended for bulls to undergo a bull breeding soundness exam 60 days before being expected to work. The exam is carried out by your veterinary surgeon and involves three parts.

Including: 1995 Same Silver 80 4wd (6,800hrs), 1988 Same Explorer 70 4wd with Loader (4,700hrs),1973 Ford 4000 (fully restored), 1976 International 454 2wd, Marshall SM6 Drop Side Silage Trailer, Markham 3t Tipping Trailer, PortAgric 6’ Topper, Ransomes TS59 & TS90 & TS91 Ploughs, Krone AM242Z Mower Conditioner, Feeders, Stationary Engines, Signs, Bygones, etc.

Further suitable entries welcome.

Please contact Greg Ridout 07817 517467

The initial part is analysis of the bull’s history/disease status to determine if any disease testing is required, for example, blood sampling or swabbing for disease exposure. The second part involves a thorough examination covering body scoring, mobility, reproductive organ evaluation and general health parameters. The final part is the semen evaluation, this involves collecting a sample and assessing quantity, motility and identifying sperm defects. Once all the data is collated, if the bull has achieved the required targets, then they will be deemed suitable for service. The cost of this process is considerably less than the cost of empty cows.

DORSET | DEVON | SOMERSET | HAMPSHIRE | WILTSHIRE | CORNWALL | LONDON

Godmanstone

Guide £1,750,000

A desirable residential and equestrian holding adjoining the River Cerne. Grade II listed 4 bedroom house with annexe, store, garage. Equestrian facilities include stabling, feed room, tack room and an all-weather outdoor riding arena, In all 26.20 acres (11.32 ha). CTB F. Freehold Dorchester | 01305 236237

Auction 20 June

East Orchard Guides: £160,000 & £50,000

22.38 acres (9.06 ha) of level pastureland with mains water, good access and an attractive pond. For sale in two lots. Freehold.Lot A - 18.52 ac, Lot B - 3.86 ac.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

Tender 10 June

Charminster Guide £400,000

An attractive block of level to gently sloping productive arable and pastureland situated in a strategic position to the north of Dorchester. In all 40.45 acres (16.37 ha). Freehold Dorchester | 01305 236237

Shillingstone

Guide £750,000

An untouched smallholding with potential on a quiet lane. 3 bedroom bungalow for modernisation (aoc), 2 steel frame farm buildings and pastureland, in all 13.63 acres. Freehold Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

Askerswell

Guide £450,000

A useful sized block of productive pasture and chalk downland with a steel frame building, set in attractive countryside with stunning views. In all 42.30 acres (17.12 ha). Freehold Dorchester | 01305 236237

DORSET | DEVON | SOMERSET | HAMPSHIRE | WILTSHIRE | CORNWALL | LONDON

PROPERTY AUCTION 16 MAY AT DIGBY HALL, SHERBORNE AND VIA LIVESTREAM

Merriott Guide £450,000

A substantial Grade II Listed former pub in 1.02 acres with planning permission for residential and scope for a range of other uses (STPP).

CTB F. Freehold.

Ilminster | 01460 200790

Shillingstone

Guide £225,000

A delightful, Grade II Listed 3 bedroom period cottage for modernisation in a large garden of about 0.32 acres.

CTB F. Freehold.

Sturminster | 01258 473766

Guide £150,000

A substantial building set in circa 0.8 acres having recently lapsed planning for 3 detached dwellings.

Axminster | 01297 33122

A detached Grade II Listed cottage in need of updating and some renovation with fantastic rural views.

CTB E. Freehold.

Sturminster | 01258 473766

Wimborne

Guide £225,000

A detached property providing excellent scope for renovation and possible extension (STPP and any consents) within close proximity of Wimborne’s town centre. CTB C. Freehold.

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Modestly sized commercial premises in a truly prime setting, within a few paces of the Cobb and the

Axminster | 01297 33122

Lyme Regis

Guide £100,000

beach. Freehold.

Bratton Seymour Guide £225,000

Chard

Freehold.

DORSET

Shroton Guide £1,125,000

An imposing and substantial detached 5 bedroom house presented beautifully with a south facing garden running down to the River Iwerne in a tranquil and idyllic village setting. CTB F. Freehold

Sturminster | 01258 473766

Tolpuddle

Offers over £775,000

An attractive and stylish 4 bedroom detached village house with superb uninterrupted countryside views. Driveway and Double Garage. CTB F. Freehold.

Dorchester | 01305 261008

Guide £350,000

An enchanting Grade II listed cottage with separate garden room and delightful rear garden. Situated in a popular village close to the Cranborne Chase Dorset National Landscape. CTB C. Freehold.

Sturminster | 01258 473766

Marnhull Guide £975,000

A detached 5 bedroom Grade II listed stone house with modern extension expertly combining old character with contemporary living giving flexible family accommodation. CTB F. Freehold.

Sturminster | 01258 473766

Madjeston

Guide £650,000

A fine individual detached house with flexible and spacious accommodation including separate home office. Adjoining open fields to the rear yet just 1.5 miles from Gillingham. CTB E. Freehold.

Sturminster | 01258 473766

Sherborne Guide £325,000

A well-proportioned 2 bedroom bungalow located on a quiet close, providing easy access to Sherborne Town Centre, benefiting from off-street parking and countryside views to the rear. CTB C. Freehold.

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Fontmell Magna

A most attractive detached period cottage with good accommodation and delightful grounds, set in a charming hamlet. Hall, three reception rooms, kitchen breakfast room, utility, wc, five bedrooms, two bathrooms. Garage, stables, parking & gardens. EPC D Barford St.Martin, Wiltshire – Guide price £585,000

A refurbished and stylishly presented cottage with lovely views, set in a rural village location. Hall, sitting room, kitchen/dining room, study area, utility/ shower room, downstairs bathroom, 3 bedrooms, balcony. Garden, summer house.. EPC D

A quintessential country cottage in a tucked away rural village setting with period character, a wonderful garden and potential to extend. Sitting/dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, three bedrooms, bathroom. Garden and parking. EPC Exempt

A charming listed period cottage suitable for refurbishment, situated in a pretty rural village. Sitting room, kitchen/breakfast room, rear lobby, 3 beds, bathroom, large garden. EPC Exempt

Tisbury, Wiltshire Guide Price

£1,500,000

A renovated farmhouse in an edge of village setting with nearly 5 acres & an extensive range of outbuildings. Hall, three reception rooms, kitchen, utility & boot rooms, cloakroom, four bedrooms (master ensuite), bathroom, shower room & changing room, partially completed indoor swimming pool, 5,435 sq ft of barns & outbuildings, parking & hardstanding, pond & woodland paddocks.

Motcombe, Dorset Guide Price

£950,000

An extended edge of village period house with ancillary accommodation, delightful garden and far-reaching views. Hall, sitting room, dining room/study, kitchen/breakfast room, sun room, utility & boot room, four bedrooms, three bathrooms (2 ensuite), Double carport with accommodation over, gated parking, gardens.

Easy ways to save money – and help save the planet

SPRING cleaning your life? As new shoots are blooming, you might be looking at ways to join the green revolution.

Armishaws Removals claims to have impressive ecocredentials – it’s planning to grow 50,000 trees to combat carbon emissions – and suggests simple ways for home-owners wanting to save money and help save the planet.

Wrap it up

POOR insulation is one of the greatest causes of heat loss in our homes. Lag pipes, insulate draughty rooms and loft spaces. Stopping drafts will improve your home’s energy performance. Make it a double

RIDDING your home of single

glazing and switching to double glazing – even secondary glazing – can reduce heat loss and bills.

Big butts

RATHER than using water from the mains, collecting water in water butts can help prevent the depletion of our reservoirs.

Simply by harnessing rainwater, you can make your garden even greener and save money if you’re on a water meter.

Bang up to date

OLDER appliances tend to be less efficient, meaning greater fuel consumption and greater fuel costs. Is it time you upgraded your old machines?

Have a refill

REFILL shops are cropping up everywhere. As well as organic,

sustainably-sourced staples like dried foods, all with zero packaging, you’ll often find other eco-alternatives on offer, such as cleaning supplies and beauty products.

Bulk up

IF you can’t find a refill shop, buy in bulk, larger containers means less packaging waste and lower costs.

Add some greenery

HOUSE plants like bromeliads remove more than 80% of nasties from the air, and they look good.

Plants have also been shown to reduce anxiety and depression.

Roll with it

THE average, four-person household uses 1.1 toilet rolls a

day. Have you ever checked to see how green your loo rolls are? A number of eco-friendly brands use recycled paper or even bamboo. Say goodbye to greetings cards

THE UK sends more than 800,000,000 greeting cards every year!

The environmental impact from the production, waste and transportation of cards to our homes, has led to more and more families ditching traditional cards and finding other ways to send the love. Why not shoot a fun Tik-Tok style video instead?

Get more handy house hints and tips at www.armishaws. com/blog

Thinking of moving in 2024?

Now is the ideal time to spring into action! Contact us for a free valuation and marketing advice. Many potential buyers are registering with us wishing to purchase a property in the coming months within the local towns and villages.

If you are considering bringing your property to the market we would be delighted to hear from you.

Please call 01963 34000 to arrange an appointment or email wincanton@hambledon.net

£265,000 Wincanton

Crossword

The home of Country House opera in South West England featuring renowned soloists, a full orchestra and a large chorus of emerging young artists Finalist in the 2023

World Première

An opera in four seasons | Composer: Paul Carr Librettist: Euan Tait (After Thomas Hardy) 23, 25 July at 19.00 | 27 July at 14.00

Marking 100 years since the composer’s death…

Giacomo Puccini 22, 24, 27 July at 19.00 | 25 July at 14.00

The Golden Anniversary Friday 26 July at 19:00

Coade Theatre, Bryanston, Blandford Forum Box Office: dorsetopera.com | 07570 366 186

by

Photography

Alice Pennefather

UNDER THE STARS 2024