What’s inside this issue…
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The chair of Sherborne Good Neighbours, Mike Hatch, (centre)
Ducks and Drakes donates
A CANCER trust in Dorset is thanking supporters after it handed out more than £20,000 to cancer support groups in 2024.
Ducks and Drakes, founded in 2012, was created to raise awareness of cancer and specifically bowel cancer in those aged 18 to 30.
The trust supports cancer patients and their families through the provision of specialist medical equipment and financial aid.
County Hospital to over £200,000!”
Weldmar Hospice was given £5,000 to fund the use of a revolutionary new IT system that will allow Weldmar’s doctors to prescribe medicines at the Inpatient Unit or remotely.
Ducks and Drakes was founded in 2012 by Andrew Drake and his family following the bowel cancer diagnosis of Andrew at just 24.
A spokesperson said it has seen “incredible” support this year, with supporters and donors organising events to raise funds throughout the year.
Groups that helped raise money for the trust in 2024 include NFU Mutual North Dorset, Puddletown RFC and Dorchester Town FC Lottery Stags.
Thanks to the success of the fundraising events, the trust has handed out £23,750 this year.
The donation to Mosiac will help the charity continue their essential support to young people in Dorset Picture: Ducks and Drakes
This includes £5,000 to Fortuneswell Unit, and Marjorie Brewer, joint honorary secretary at Fortuneswell Cancer Trust said: “As a volunteer-run organisation, we ensure that donations like this go directly to supporting patient care.”
Mosaic, a charity that provides support for bereaved children, was also given £8,750 to help the charity continue their essential support to young people in Dorset.
£5,000 was also donated to Dorset County Hospital.
The head of the charity, Simon Pearson said: “Our heartfelt thanks to all at Ducks and Drakes Cancer Trust for their extraordinary support towards our cancer services.
“This wonderful donation takes the total they have donated in support of Dorset
Annette Drake, Ducks and Drakes co-founder, said: “2024 has been an incredible year of community support that has allowed us to make significant donations to local cancer patients and vital local cancer services.
“Thanks to our amazing supporters, we’ve been able to fund everything from specialist medical equipment to complementary therapies, family support services, and innovative healthcare technology.
“Every fundraiser, from our local sports clubs to individual supporters taking on personal challenges, has helped make a real difference to cancer patients across Dorset.”
Veterans bare all for good cause
MEMBERS of not-for-profit organisations, Got Your Six UK in Wincanton and The Veterans Hub Weymouth and Portland, have been baring all for a calendar to raise money for their projects.
The calendar, created for the second year running, features more than 30 serving personnel, veterans, spouses, their families and friends.
It aims to raise awareness of the work carried out by both organisations in supporting the military community across Somerset, Dorset and Wiltshire.
The Veterans Hub Weymouth and Portland was founded in late 2017 by Andy Price, originally as a once-a-week drop-in, and has since expanded into a full-time project open six days a week, complete with cafe, pre-loved shop, allotment, gym and therapeutic areas.
Got Your Six UK began in 2022 as a military-specific therapy service based at The Veterans Hub run by Tara Coyles-Gould, a therapist and military spouse, but with a lack of support identified in south Somerset and north Dorset, Tara and Andy partnered up to turn Got Your Six UK into a full-time project.
In December 2023, Army veteran Gareth Bottomley was invited to join the board of directors, and the organisation now has a Community Hub, open to all, in Wincanton.
The building, which used to be a bank, also houses two therapy rooms, a kids’ corner, snug, pre-loved ‘bank vault’ bookshop and communal wellbeing garden.
The ‘cheeky’ calendar showcases these various elements at both locations.
The two projects collaborate to ensure a safety net of support is provided across the counties for those who have served their country.
Supporting the mental health and wellbeing of the military community has been the primary focus of both organisations since their inception.
Got Your Six UK specialises in supporting military mental health, providing militaryspecific therapy, and suicide intervention.
The therapy provided is heavily subsidised with regiments and military charities involved to ensure the sessions remain low-cost and accessible.
The Veterans Hub Weymouth and Portland can offer a wider range of support from its multi-agency welfare office, including drop-in clinics with organisations such as housing, pensions and financial advice.
The calendar was produced by Tara at Got Your Six UK. She said: “The idea came about as a way to get people together for a good giggle, while also dispelling perceptions of body image and boosting confidence.
“People’s first comments are always how they aren’t brave enough or do not look good enough.
“We throw those negativities out the window and embrace the natural form.
“We’re all humans with wobbly bits, or scars and disabilities that tell a story, and we should be proud of them.
“The calendar photoshoots
both years have been the best form of therapy with so much laughter and long-lasting bonds formed.”
As Community Interest Companies, the organisations run on funds they make through services, selling merchandise, the Weymouth cafe and the Wincanton pre-loved bank vault bookshop, but they still rely on help from donations and grants to cover overheads, and widen the support available.
The Wincanton Community Hub is open Tuesday 10am1pm, Wednesday to Friday 10am-4pm and Saturday 10am-2pm, with evening and weekend events advertised on the website and social media pages.
Calendars are £12 and can be purchased from both hubs, or online at www.gotyoursix. uk/2025-calendar.
Christmas tree collections for hospices
HOUSEHOLDS and businesses across Dorset are being invited to help a local hospice and do their bit for the environment when they dispose of their Christmas trees.
They can have their trees collected in aid Dorchesterbased Weldmar Hospicecare’s Christmas Treecycle in return for a suggested minimum donation of £10 a tree to the charity.
Collections will be made between Saturday and Monday, January 11-13, in the Weymouth, Portland, Dorchester, Beaminster, Blandford, Bridport,
Sherborne, Shaftesbury and Gillingham areas.
Trinity St Christmas Trees, is partnering with Weldmar and will be making the collections on the charity’s behalf, alongside Weldmar volunteers.
Knighton Countryside Management is also supporting the Treecycle initiative for another year and will be helping to dispose of the trees in an eco-friendly manner.
To book a collection date, or find out more about volunteering with tree collections, visit weldmarhospicecare.org/trees n TWO hospice charities are
teaming up to offer a Christmas tree recycling service in Somerset – and raise lots of money at the same time.
St Margaret’s Hospice Care and Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW) will be collecting trees in return for a donation.
They will be collecting trees in Yeovil, South Somerset, Glastonbury, Wells, Street and Taunton, but anyone planning to use the service should check the charities’ websites for the post codes they will collect from.
St Margaret’s Hospice, sponsored by Buses of Somerset, will be collecting
trees on Saturday and Sunday, January 11-12.
CHSW will be collecting trees from Monday to Wednesday, January 13-15– the last booking date is Tuesday, January 7.
Biffa is donating its time and vehicles to help collect the trees.
To book a Christmas tree collection with St Margaret’s Hospice, visit st-margaretshospice.org.uk/christmas-treecollection
To book a Christmas tree collection with Children’s Hospice South West, visit chsw. org.uk/christmastree
Calendar boys (and girls): The calendar will benefit Got Your Six UK
Bus company increases fares
FIRST Bus passengers in Dorset are now paying higher fares following the end of a two-year fare freeze on New Year’s Day.
The company has also introduced two revised fare zones.
Adult short hop fares – for journeys up to three miles –are now £2.40, with tickets for journeys over that distance £3.
Child fares are 50% less than adult fares.
The price of Day, Week and Month tickets, which offer unlimited travel within the respective zone, have also been adjusted.
James Eustace, commercial director for First Bus in Dorset, said: “Bus remains one of the cheapest, most convenient and sustainable ways of travelling around Dorset.
“Our fares have been frozen for the last two years, as we wanted to absorb the inflationary rises we were experiencing to support our customers.
“However, like so many other transport providers, we’re facing significant rising costs across our operations.
“We have strived to keep increases to a minimum, with customers on shorter journeys paying £2.40, and longer journey prices aligning with the incoming UK Government’s £3 flat fare cap.”
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Supporters celebrate fundraiser marking 30 years of hospicecare
A DEDICATED group of supporters in the west of Dorset has raised an amazing £101,000 at a dinner and auction organised to mark the 30th anniversary of Weldmar Hospicecare.
Lots included holidays and short breaks, fine wines, works of art and activities. Star attractions included the use of a five-bed, luxurious chalet in the iconic Swiss skiing village of Murren, and a summer holiday in a French alpine chalet for 10 people.
Sue Dean, chair of the West Dorset Weldmar Fundraising Committee, said: “With hospices under so much
financial pressure at present, we were delighted to have raised £101,000 at the Weldmar 30th anniversary dinner recently.
“This was only possible due
Volunteer appeal
DORSET Museum and Art Gallery is seeking volunteer welcome hosts and gallery stewards to help out on weekends during the Gladiators of Britain exhibition (January 25 to May 11).
Email enquiries@dorsetmuseum.org to find out more.
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Office open Monday - Friday 9:30am - 1:30pm info@acnorthdorset.org.uk | www.acnorthdorset.org.uk
Staff Nurses Sarah and Annie join Sue Dean from the West Dorset Weldmar Fundraising Committee, and sponsors Patrick Woodford from Symonds and Sampson, and Martin Dyer from Handelsbanken
to the great efforts of our fundraising committee, our generous hosts, Dr and Mrs Guy, our sponsors, and the many wonderful people who contributed to the auction on the night.
“As the only hospice serving the local area, it is imperative that we all play our part in safeguarding its future, as sadly many of us will call upon its services in the years to come.”
Matt Smith, chief operating officer at Weldmar Hospicecare, said: “This year, we celebrate the 30th anniversary of
Weldmar’s Inpatient Unit opening its doors for the very first time.
“Since then, hospice care has evolved so that much more care and support can be provided within the comfort of patients’ own homes, to both those experiencing life-limiting illness and their loved ones.
“What hasn’t changed in that time is the incredible support that we’ve had from people such as Sue, and her dedicated committee of fundraisers in West Dorset, and we thank them for all the time and hard work that went into raising such a wonderful total.
“Despite the celebrations throughout our anniversary year, we are also experiencing our most challenging times and expecting to spend £1 million more on specialist end of life care this year than we expect in income.
“With just 17% of this income coming from the NHS, support from the community is more vital than ever.”
Santa’s town tour
EXCITED children in Mere had the chance to meet Father Christmas when Gillingham, Mere and Shaftesbury Lions (GMS) brought Santa to town.
Evie Thomas (pictured), one of three children who helped switch on Mere’s Christmas lights, had the chance to meet Santa, and Lions members made a street collection.
Picture and text by George Jeans
‘Pearlies’ raise money for Home-Start
LONDON came to Dorset when a Pearly King and Queen collected funds in aid of Home-Start Blackmore Vale.
The Pearly King of Harrow and his daughter, the Pearly Queen of Tunbridge Wells, were at the Waitrose stores in Gillingham and Waitrose.
The Pearly King, David Hemsley, lives in the West Country now but inherited his title from his grandmother, a Pearly Queen from Harrow. His daughter, Sophie, inherited her title from her grandparents.
They continue the Pearly tradition of carrying out charitable work and meet regularly with other Pearly Kings and Queens in Covent Garden in London.
Caroline Salt, a trustee of Home-Start Blackmore Vale, collected with them at Gillingham and thanked them
for giving up two whole days just before Christmas.
The ‘Pearlies’ collected just under £700, which will go towards the cost of funding a volunteer for a year.
Caroline said: “Thank you to all those who so kindly donated – and Waitrose Gillingham and Waitrose Sherborne for allowing us to collect on such busy days.”
In 2023 Home-Start Blackmore Vale supported 162 families and 243 children, and that number is set to increase with the group’s recent expansion into areas of West Dorset.
After completing their training, volunteers commit to two to three hours each week to work with a family. They use their training and
parenting experience to offer friendship, support and advice, helping families to find coping mechanisms for the challenges of bringing up young children.
The approach has proved to help transform the lives of those volunteers work with.
Home-Start Blackmore Vale is looking to recruit trustees and new volunteers to support families, especially in the Sherborne to Beaminster area.
Anyone who has parenting experience, who can commit to two or three hours a week to help a struggling family, is asked to get in touch if they would like to discuss family support or volunteering.
For more information, visit the group’s website, www:homestartblackmorevale. org.uk, phone 01935 726438 or email office@homestartblack morevale.org.uk.
The Pearly King and Queen with staff at Gillingham Waitrose
Arnie’s favourite tank on track for restoration
THE Tank Museum at Bovington has raised more than half of the £50,000 required to restore its M47 Patton tank, Arnold Schwarzenegger’s favourite armoured vehicle, to running order.
The US built M47 is an important part of the Cold War story, and has a famous fan in Schwarzenegger, who served in an M47 in the Austrian military, later purchasing the tank he crewed.
The museum launched its fundraising campaign in June
and more than £15,000 from crowd-sourced donations and £1,800 through the auction of a fully functioning 1/6 scale remote control M47 model gifted to fund the restoration.
The museum has also received £10,000 from Cook Defence Systems, the world’s leading independent designer and manufacturer of tracks for armoured vehicles.
William Cook, director of Cook Defence Systems, said: “The Tank Museum is not only a historical collection – it is a
individual supporters and organisations like Cook Defence Systems, who have made this restoration possible.
unique and valuable resource for the whole Armoured Fighting Vehicle (AFV) community, including engineering companies like Cook Defence Systems.
“We are pleased to support its important work.”
Marketing manager, Lucy McCalister, said: “We are so grateful for the support of
“Though the M47 has often been described as ‘the most boring tank in the world’, it is an important piece of the story of Cold War tank development, and a significant addition to our running vehicles collection.”
The restoration is being undertaken in partnership with engineer Matthew Pyle, who has recently completed his own M47 restoration project.
The Tank Museum’s M47 was transported to his workshop in October and is expected to be in running condition next year.
Everybody needs Good Neighbours
SHERBORNE Good Neighbours (SGN) held its annual meeting at the Roman Catholic Church Hall.
The chair, Mike Hatch, welcomed more than 50 volunteers and representatives from supporters Classics and Supercars and Sherborne Town Council.
Mike thanked everyone for once again meeting more than 2,000 requests during the last year and driving 25,000-plus miles.
Demand for help from the 75 volunteers continues to grow year on year, driving people to hospital appointments and surgeries, collecting prescriptions, shopping and visiting those who welcome
company.
Increasingly, the NHS and social care are relying on the voluntary sector to provide these essential services.
Mike said: “We are fortunate in Sherborne that so many people are willing to give up their time so that organisations such as Good Neighbours can support the public sector in this way.”
Established over 35 years ago, SGN has provided help continuously to those of any age in the local community who do not have friends or relatives who can assist them.
After seven years as chair, Mike passes on the reins to Fiona Ashley Miller. She will be assisted by five ‘Links’ who all
After seven years as Sherborne
work from home coordinating requests from those seeing help with the volunteers.
“The Links are key to the success of SGN,” said Mike.
“They have to be patient, organised, empathetic and able
to think on their feet.
“Those seeking help can be confused and appointments cancelled at the last minute, but they remain cheerful even when the phone rings early in the morning or late at night.”
Snowdrops at The Old Vicarage
THE nodding white flowers of snowdrops brighten even the darkest days of winter. The first open garden of 2025, under the National Garden Scheme, boasts beautiful drifts of blooms.
The Old Vicarage East Orchard, Shaftesbury SP7 0BA
HUNDREDS of different snowdrops, crocus, daffodils, tulips and many other bulbs and winter flowering shrubs. A stream meanders down to a pond and there are lovely reflections in the swimming pond, the first to be built in Dorset. The new acre has been
planted with several unusual trees. Wildlife garden, pond dipping, swing and other children’s attractions.
Dogs on short leads welcome. Not suitable for wheelchairs if very wet.
Open Friday, February 7; Friday, February 14; Sunday,
February 16 (2pm-5pm), £5, children free. Visits also by arrangement from January 2 to December 3.
Entries may be subject to change – for the latest information visit www.ngs.org. uk. Tickets can be purchased via www.ngs.org.uk
Arnold Schwarzenegger owns the M47 he crewed in his time in the Austrian military
Good Neighbours chair, Mike Hatch (front row, third left) passed the reins over to Fiona Ashley Miller (second left)
Culture vultures
SHERBORNE is one of four towns across Dorset shortlisted to be the 2026 Town of Culture.
The winning town will be chosen by a panel of industry experts and it will receive £30,000 from Dorset Council to enable a year’s worth of cultural activity to take place.
Ferndown, Swanage and Wimborne are also in the running for the award.
The award was established by Arts Development Company, who are responsible for Dorset’s cultural strategy, and is open to any town, village, or hamlet in Dorset.
David Lockwood, CEO of Arts Development Company, said: “We’ve been bowled over by the initial submissions for Town of Culture 2026.
“These four towns, each distinct, show clearly the opportunities for using culture and creativity to enhance their towns for their residents.
“Now the four towns have a chance to develop their plans in more detail, and we’ll work with our panel to make the difficult decision as to which of them will be Dorset Town of Culture for 2026.”
Councillor Ryan Hope, Dorset Council’s cabinet member for customer, culture and community engagement, said: “The four shortlisted towns for the 2026 Town of Culture all bring something different to the table.
“I’m delighted they have been recognised for their individual culture offers.
“Dorset is home to some outstanding cultural venues and events, and I am excited to see how the judging unfolds so we can celebrate arts and events which make up the fabric of our wonderful county.”
For more information about the award, visit the Arts Development Company website.
SERO celebrates
THE SERO charity is set to celebrate its 21st birthday at Child Okeford Village Hall. The event will include light entertainment, singing and music from local group The Gravellers.
SERO raises funds for local charities and Julia’s House Children’s Hospice, and Julia’s House community fundraiser
Amanda Gillett will give a talk at the celebration.
The event is on Friday, February 21, at 7pm for 7.30pm and includes a bar, raffle and silent auction.
Tickets priced £15 are available from serocharity@ gmail.com or phone Julie on 07749 486733 or Kate on 07725 245066.
Fern Brook Lodge residents enjoy free beauty treatments thanks to salon staff
F
ern Brook Lodge residents were treated to an afternoon of pampering thanks to kindhearted beauty salon staff.
The Vita Skin Spa team in Gillingham, which is located close to the care home on Fern Brook Lane, spoke to the care home staff about surprising the residents as part of the salon’s ‘Random acts of kindness’ initiative.
Residents were invited to enjoy free manicures and blow dries from the Vita Skin Spa team hosted in Fern Brook Lodge’s in-house salon to help them feel special over the Christmas season.
Fern Brook Lodge, which is part of not-for-profit charity, Care South, provides residential, respite, and dementia care. A dedicated activities team organise a daily programme of events to bring residents together to socialise and build friendships.
Other festive activities that residents took part in include a Christmas fayre, Elf Day, a Christmas lights switch-on, a visit from Teddy 20 charity Christmas sleigh, a performance from the Gillingham Singers, and a visit from Carole who starred in The Great British Bake Off.
New year, new friendships...
CANFORD Bridge Club is looking for new members.
Canford School runs a free bridge club for the over-60s each Monday afternoon during term time.
The club is welcoming new members for 2025 – why not learn a new card game or hone your existing bridge skills as one of your New Year’s resolutions?
Now in its eighth year, the aim of the club has always been to provide a space for over-60s retired and living in the local area to come together, meet and play bridge, with a community first approach whether a beginner or an expert.
Dave Allen, Director of Community Action, said: “Our Bridge Club offers much more than just an afternoon of card games.
“ Many of our members have formed deep and long lasting friendships with other like minded players and they all enjoy playing with Canford pupils and staff too.
“Tea, coffee and the nowfamous home-made Canford shortbread is always on offer, and the club is free, there are no joining fees.
“All we ask is that you come with an open mind and a willingness to play with and help others who may be slightly less skilled than yourself.”
If you are interested in being a part of this club or would like to find out more, please call Canford School on 01202 841254 and ask for Dave Allen, Director of Community Action. Or you can send an email to dja@canford.com
Jolly good fun
GUESTS, volunteers and staff of In Jolly Good Company, a charity which hosts dementiafriendly activities and entertainment for older people at six venues in Dorset, enjoyed a visit by a children’s choir at their Christmas party at the Royal British Legion in Shaftesbury.
Eighteen pupils from Shaftesbury Abbey Primary School, who were accompanied by Miss Bastable, performed a selection of Christmas carols interspersed with readings from individual pupils, who narrated the story of the birth of Jesus.
Miss Bastable said: “There are 30 members in the choir and we practise every Tuesday after school for half an hour.
“We usually start our Christmas rehearsals late October. The children range from year 3 to year 6.”
The concert also included the children’s favourite songs, The Gift and This Christmas Time.
The children happily mingled with guests, chatted and helped provide the answers to the Christmas quiz during traditional festive refreshments.
FULL FIBRE BROADBAND
Circus skills
CHILDREN and teachers at Shaftesbury Primary School have enjoyed a circus workshop thanks to Shaftesbury Rotary Club.
Rotary arranged for the workshop and a performance of slapstick comedy, magic and circus skills as a thank you to the school for its participation in the Rotary RotaKids project.
Circus Berzercus, commonly described as ‘a mismatch made in Devon’, hosts circus skills workshops in schools from Key Stage 1 upwards.
The Rotary club has been partnering with the circus for over eight years.
The club would like to thank Steve Eldridge and Ben Cornish of Circus Berzercus for another excellent show.
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Young dancers go global
YOUNG street dancers from the Dance Days Academy (DDA) at Blandford are celebrating success on the world stage.
Some 25 dancers from the academy took part in two days of competition in the Global Dance Organisation World Championships in Crawley.
They qualified to attend the event in the summer and spent three months in rehearsals and fundraising before the championships.
All the dancers each entered in five or six categories from solos to large group dances and they came away with four third places in team events, two top six solo and duo-placements, and many semi-finalists.
The Under-10s also achieved a World Champion team placement, which Charlotte Fernandes, dance school owner, described as a ‘huge accomplishment’.
She added: “DDA is so proud of its dancers who represented the school so highly both on and off the dance floor.
“It is also incredibly grateful for all of the support from families, friends and the community, allowing us to have the opportunity to compete at the event.”
The dance school is now heading into its seventh year and caters for young people aged between six and 22, from dancers who go along just for fun to those who wish to pursue a career in dance or the arts. It runs weekly classes and offers a wide range of opportunities to students including workshops, competitions and performance opportunities and showcases.
Tunnels talk
MEMBERS of Dorchester Townswomen’s Guild will hear about the town’s ancient tunnels from David Taylor.
The talk is at Dorchester Community Church, Liscombe Street, Poundbury, on Monday, January 13, at 2pm, following a short business meeting.
Visitors will be made welcome (£3). For more information, phone 01305 832857.
Time to enter the BV half marathon
ORGANISERS of the Blackmore Vale Half Marathon are inviting runners to get their entries in.
The annual event is organised by Blackmore Vale Lions Club.
It gets under way at Bishop’s Caundle Recreation Ground –the race headquarters is at the village hall – on Sunday, February 2 at 11am.
Enter online at https:// englandathletics.sport80.com/
public/wizard/e/28524, via the Lions club’s website at https:// bvlhm.yolasite.com or by post – the entry form is on the website.
Entries close at midnight on Friday, January 31, but runners can also turn up at the village hall on the day before 10am.
The event will enable a sizeable donation to Diabetes UK, this year’s charity, and support other good causes.
To make a donation, or enquire about joining the Lions, phone 0845 8337423 and leave a message, and the club will return the call.
Wellwishers are invited to support the runners, but drivers are asked to give competitors a wide berth. Runners should be clear of the
Luxury residential care at The Old Rectory
From our excellent home cooking to individually decorated private rooms and above all real loving care… life is tailored to you.
The Old Rectory is a beautiful residential care home that specialises in dementia care. Tastefully converted from a former rectory and carefully adapted to make it safe and secure for residents giving them the freedom to have a full and active life. We offer a caring and welcoming environment that is a true home in every sense of the word, where people with dementia are respected as individuals.
Residential care Holiday breaks Respite care Day care Convalescent stays Rehabilitation stays
Muddy Good Fun!
The Dorset Mud Run is back for 2025 and this year it’s a two day event! ADVERTISING FEATURE
Tackle over 15 challenging but fun obstacles on the 6km run, winding through beautiful oak woodland, wading through ponds and getting very muddy, all while enjoying stunning views across the Dorset countryside.
Held at the Stock Gaylard Estate near Sturminster Newton, the Dorset Mud Run is an experience full of laughter, fun and teamwork. Cheerful stewards will offer encouragement as you jump hurdles, swing over ditches, scramble up mud hills and crawl under cargo nets.
All participants receive a free beer and a Dorset Mud Run t-shirt as a welcome reward at the finishing line.
The Dorset Mud Run is held on Saturday 17th May and Sunday 18th May 2025 –choose your day or book both if you are up for the challenge!
Stock Gaylard Estate, Sturminster Newton.
£44 per person with a 10% discount for teams of 5 or more! For more information and to book your place visit: www.dorsetmudrun.com
Funds for wildlife
DORSET Wildlife Trust has thanked a school in Sherborne after being handed a cheque for £5,000 to help protect nature reserves across the county.
Students, staff and families at Sherborne Prep School held fundraising events throughout the year, organised by The Friends of Sherborne Prep and the school’s parent association.
Money raised from the events was split between Dorset Wildlife Trust and school initiatives.
The trust launched a Nature Reserves Fund appeal due to rising conservation costs as the charity’s reserves team battles across the equivalent of 2,731 football pitches to save species like the hazel dormouse from the brink of extinction in Dorset.
The charity’s appeal has raised £36,616 of its £100,000 target.
The trust’s fundraising manager, Emma Davies, said: “We are so grateful to all the pupils, staff and families of Sherborne Prep School for their hard work raising money for Dorset Wildlife Trust.
“The money they have raised will be used to protect and restore our nature reserves across Dorset, which are incredibly special places for species and for people.
“Their support will make a real difference in preserving our beautiful habitats and the species that depend on them.”
To donate to the charity’s appeal, visit Dorset Wildlife Trust’s website.
Breaking ground on new bee centre
by Robbie Baird, chair of Trustees
AFTER a long search and much fundraising, North Dorset Beekeepers had reason to celebrate.
This winter, the groundworks team from DK Eastment started the work that will ultimately lead to the opening of our Honey Bee Centre and new home.
Although it’ll be next summer before there’s a building on site, this phase of the work will put the car park in place, and water and electricity ducting to the future building.
A sewage treatment unit will be installed, and a concrete base laid, ready to receive the building itself when that phase of construction starts in spring/ summer next year.
A known water main was supposed to be located
somewhere underground, close to the gate. This will become the water supply for the new building, so the first task was to dig around the area to find it.
The small digger made light work of moving the clay and the piping was soon exposed.
With the water main location known, the next step was to dig a trench to the site of the future building, and the guys got on with that. Then the heavens opened and I feared the worst. There’s been so much rain lately. “We’re not made of sugar”, Andy told me. “We’re not going to dissolve!” So, on they went.
By the end of the day, and with the area turning into a bit of a mud wallow, the water supply had been laid to where it’ll be needed for the building, the electricity ducting had been laid, and the trench backfilled
– all neat and tidy and ready for the big stuff to get going. We started fundraising to build the Honey Bee Centre in May 2023, just after signing a lease with Dorset Council for the land at Holloway Farm in Shillingstone. We’ve raised about three-quarters of the £200,000 target, enough to complete the groundworks and put up the building to a watertight shell, and we’re continuing to raise funds to complete the interior.
Head over to our website to find out more (www. northdorsetbeekeepers.org.uk).
Of course, we’d welcome donations, and you can also help by coming on a Bee Experience Day in 2025 or buying a voucher for someone you know (they make great Christmas presents!).
And if you fancy keeping some bees yourself, we still have a few places left on our 2025 Beginners Course, starting in April.
Natural ‘wonder product’ and a ‘message of hope’
THE National Trust is running workshops with school children in Dorset to create their own products using mycelium, the root system of fungus that is more sustainable and environmentally friendly than plastic.
The sessions are among the first of their kind for the trust and aim to empower the children when many are worried about the changing climate.
In a recent session, children from St Mary’s Primary School in Bridport spent the day with local mushroom expert Nick Phillips and learnt all about mycelium and how it can help to build a sustainable future.
The children started by visiting a local beach and spent some time litter picking, collecting plastics from the beach, and considering the impact it has on the local environment and wildlife.
They then went back to the school and made bowls out of mycelium.
Liz Flight, senior partnership
and programming officer for the National Trust, said: “Many children and young people are worried about the nature and climate emergency, and we want to do something that sends a message of hope and empowers them.
“The children had a wonderful day learning about the possibilities of this wonder product, mycelium!
“It’s a great alternative to plastic and it’s incredible what can be made from it.
“It can be used as packaging, in fashion and as a building material.
“Today the children made bowls, but who knows what they’ll turn their hands to next.”
Laura Smith, year 6 class teacher at St Mary’s, said: “The children learnt some fascinating facts about our coastline, which gave the children a deeper understanding of the environment around them.
“This was followed by an interactive litter picking activity that allowed the students to get hands on and contribute
positively to the area.
“This was followed by an insightful discussion about renewable resources and a thought provoking lesson on mycelium, exploring how it can be used to create a wide variety of products.
“It was a perfect blend of learning, creativity and fun, and one that will stay with the children for a long time.”
Mycelium is part of the fungal kingdom which pre-dates animals and even plants by millions of years.
It is a network of little white threads beneath the soil and looks like the roots of plants, with mushrooms being the fruit of mycelia.
Mycelium can be grown into any shape or size and its biodegradability makes it an eco-friendly alternative to traditional materials.
The National Trust in Dorset is running workshops with local schools to reduce climate anxiety in young people who are seeing the impacts of climate change locally.
Shutters, Awnings, and so much more.
With all the uncertainty of the British summertime why not enhance your outdoor space with an Awning or Veranda with heating and lighting to stop the weather spoiling your plans.
During the winter a lot of heat can be lost through windows, but blinds and shutters prevent some heat from escaping, they essentially create a barrier between the warm air inside and the cold air outside, reducing the amount of heat lost. Did you know blinds reduce heat loss by up to 33% and shutters by up to 28%?
We recommend you open blinds and shutters early in the morning when sunny to use the free solar energy from the sun to warm your home and close blinds and shutters in the night to provide extra insulation helping to reduce heat loss, keep warmer and save energy.
With our extensive range of internal blinds and shutters we are sure to have a suitable solution for your window, regardless of shape or size.
Our range of Awnings are available manual or motorised operation up to 14meters long and Verandas custom built to any size, also suitable for use as a Carport.
For when the heatwave arrives, we can offer a large range of Blinds and Shutters to suit your shading requirements, whether you would like blackout for a better sleep or screen blinds to reduce the solar gain into your rooms. Our expert advice and extensive experience will ensure you get the right product, and provide the shading solution you need.
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We will personally deal with you from the initial in-home consultation, where we will identify your needs and provide you with a quotation for the most suitable solution. All products are professionally fitted by us and guaranteed. Contact us for a free in-home consultation by email enquiries@lizziepriceshadingsolutions.co.uk or phone 07879 992000.
School children have been learning about mycelium.
PHOTO: National Trust/Liz Flight
Chamber helps out food bank
DORCHESTER Chamber for Business made a donation of £500 to Dorchester Food Bank to support local families and individuals in need during the festive season.
The funds were raised through a raffle at the Chamber’s annual president’s breakfast last month, an event that celebrated Christmas and the end of another successful and busy business year.
A cheque for £500 was formally presented to Dr John Burn, a trustee of the food bank.
The Chamber topped up the £448 raised through the raffle, which featured prizes donated by Chamber members.
The president’s breakfast is a key event in the Chamber’s calendar, offering members the opportunity to come together, celebrate achievements and
MEGA
share in the festive cheer.
Dorchester Food Bank, which provides emergency food supplies to individuals and families facing hardship, plays a vital role in supporting the local community.
It assists not only families with children but pensioners and individuals who need help keeping their cupboards and fridges stocked.
Additional provisions are distributed before Christmas to ease the strain on parents, offering extra treats and festive items to bring some joy to those facing financial challenges.
The day of the donation saw the team have their busiest day of the month with 28 families requiring assistance.
One mother was feeding her four children and herself on a tin of meatballs, and a pensioner
WINTER SALE!
had been referred after a social worker found no food in their house on a routine visit.
Dr Burn said: “We are so grateful for this generous donation. The support from the Chamber is invaluable, particularly at this time of year when the demand for food assistance increases.
“This donation will go a long way in helping us provide vital supplies to those in need over Christmas.”
Chamber president, Steve Bulley, and vice-president, Steph Addison, who presented the cheque to Dr Burn, said:
In the picture (from left) Steph Addison, Dorchester Chamber vice-president; Dr John Burn, trustee Dorchester Food Bank; and Steve Bulley, president Dorchester Chamber
“It’s an honour to present this donation to the Dorchester Food Bank.
“As a Chamber, we are committed to supporting our local community, and we’re proud to be able to contribute to such an important cause.
“The Christmas period can be especially difficult for families facing financial hardship, and we hope this contribution helps to ease some of that burden.
“I’d like to thank all of our members who donated raffle prizes and helped make this fundraising effort a success.”
Songs, storms and a soggy Santa...
by Sheila Chapman
BLANDFORD’S Yulefest was a roaring success, despite the weather!
Storm Darragh thankfully stayed away until the festivities were over, much to everyone’s relief.
Yes, it was a tad wet – but we are British and are born shrink-proof!
The Piper announced the arrival of Father Christmas and the Mayor, and joyful carols set the scene for the lighting of the Christmas tree.
Later, at the grotto, more than 100 children visited to tell Santa their Christmas wishes.
And parents patiently waited in the drizzle as youngsters enjoyed the fair, lights and snow machine.
The Stour Valley Band played their hearts out and the Dinosaurs Choir from Blandford
Rugby Club did a sterling job leading the carol singing.
The young entertainers who performed were well received.
The steam engines, always great favourites, were unable to attend due to the weather.
Yulefest organisers would like to thank everyone who ventured out in the less than pleasant weather to make the evening.
If not the busiest ever held, it was certainly a most enjoyable one.
Christmas concert gets a full house
THE Grove Building in Mere was filled with people when community choir Shreen Harmony performed a Christmas concert.
The choir sang festive tunes such as Mary’s Boy Child and Santa Claus is Coming to Town, and mulled wine and mince pies were on offer.
Money raised from
donations will go to local youth charity Seeds for Success
Shreen Harmony was founded in 1998 and meets in the United Reformed Church in Boar Street, Mere, on Thursday evenings during term time, and anyone can join.
Text and picture by George Jeans, Mere
Oh, Christmas tree!
by Liz York
THIS year’s Christmas tree festival at St Mary’s Church, Sturminster Marshall, featured 25 trees, all beautifully, thoughtfully and imaginatively dressed.
Each tree was decorated to raise money for a different charity.
The church was full of music and activities were on offer for the children, along with cakes, cups of tea and a market stall selling home-made produce.
Community carol singing on Sunday afternoon raised the roof, after which a trophy was awarded for visitors’ favourite tree (pictured), entered by the Guides for Mosaic, a charity that supports bereaved children across Dorset.
The church would like to thank everyone for their support and generosity.
Are you ready for change?
Are you thinking about getting healthier in the New Year? Going on a diet, taking up a new activity or giving up smoking?
Many of us come out of the excesses of Christmas and jump straight into New Year’s resolutions, setting ourselves tough health goals and even tougher regimes to reach those goals.
We want to be in control, for everything to be perfect. But taking on too much and being over ambitious so often leads to failure, leaving us deflated when our perfect plan fizzles out.
The most important thing to remember is that change doesn’t have to be perfect to be worthwhile, taking small, achievable steps and making steady progress over time is far more likely to lead to lasting success than quick fixes or fads.
Each January LiveWell Dorset helps thousands of people on the road to a healthier life, supporting them not just for a month, but for as long as it takes. Registering for free, professional help takes two minutes and offers access to resources including 1-2-1 coaching, kick-start slimming club vouchers, smoking quit kits and activity plans.
Contemporary or traditional kitchens manufactured to order
Gillingham Showroom 01747 833 789 Unit 21, Kingsmead Business Park, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 5JG
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Reach for the stars, reach your weight loss goals with slimming world
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441 members achieved their personal target weight and thousands of weight loss awards have been celebrated in group alongside body magic awards for activity!
The Slimmimg World consultants are super proud of all their members and look forward to celebrating more achievements throughout 2025 x
Blandford
Methodist Church
Tuesday 7pm
Debbie 074115565185
Blandford
Methodist Church
Wednesday 5.30pm, 7pm
Debbie 074115565185
Blandford
Methodist Church
Thursday 5.30pm, 7.30pm
Tracey 07776309982
Blandford
British Legion
Wednesday 8.30am, 10am, 11:30am
Tracey 07776309982
Shaftesbury
Royal Chase Hotel
Thursday 7.30am, 9am, 10.30am
Lorraine 07771013728
Shaftesbury
Royal Chase Hotel
Thursday 5.30pm, 7.30pm
Gail 07748643783
Gillingham
Social Club
Hardings Lane
Tuesday 5.30pm, 7pm
Tracey 07776309982
Gillingham
Youth and Community Centre
Tuesday 9.30am, 11am
Lorraine 07771013728
Sturminster Newton The Exchange
Monday 5.30pm, 7.30pm
Gail 07748643783
Sherborne
Raleigh Hall
Digby Road
Tuesday 5.30pm
Sally 07973665167
Sherborne
Raleigh Hall
Digby Road
Wednesday 9am
Sally 07973665167
Wincanton
Memorial Hall
Wednesday 5.30pm, 7pm
Gail 07748643783
Puddletown
Village Hall
Thursday 7pm
Julie 07871821928
Somerton The Club
Gassons Lane
Monday 5.30pm, 7.15pm
Shelley 07786011728
Yeovil
Park House
44 The Park
Tuesday 5.30pm, 7.30pm
Wednesday 3.30pm, 5.30pm, 7pm
Thursday 5.30pm, 7.30pm
Friday 8am, 9.30am
Saturday 8am, 10am
Shelley 07786011728
Lewis-Manning Hospice Care Launches Christmas Tree Collection & Recycling Campaign to Fund Patient Well-being
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Lewis-Manning Hospice Care is kicking off the new year with its annual Christmas Tree Collection & Recycling Campaign, taking place on 9th, 10th, and 11th January 2025 across postcodes BH1–BH23. By recycling your Christmas trees, you and local people in your community can make a truly meaningful impact, helping local hospice patients whilst promoting sustainability and supporting the environment.
If you are planning to have a real Christmas Tree this year Lewis-Manning invites you to join them in this recycling campaign and register and donate online today at www.lewis-manning.org.uk/trees, where a suggested donation of £15 will allow the hospice to deliver a virtual exercise and well-being session run by one of the hospice Occupational Therapists. This vital service helps the growing community of housebound patients achieve a more active, fulfilling life and remain connected to each other.
A Win-Win for your Community and the Environment
Head of Fundraising, Vicki Gray advised, “Our Christmas tree recycling initiative is so much more than raising funds for an important local hospice - It’s an opportunity for the community to support crucial well-being services for Dorset hospice patients, whilst championing the environment.
“All trees collected are recycled into chippings and mulch for use in our local parks, gardens, playgrounds, and other community spaces across Dorset.”
Generous Community Support
Lewis-Manning Hospice Care extends special thanks to corporate partners Stewarts Garden Centres, Katie Fox Estate Agents, United Taxis, and Eco Sustainable Solutions, whose sponsorship and support makes this initiative possible.
How It Works:
•Register & Donate: Sign up online to book your collection.
•Confirmation: Once booked via Lewis-Manning’s website, you will receive a confirmation email. When the bookings close on 6th January, the team will be in touch to let you know when your tree will be collected.
•Collection dates: All trees will be collected on 9th, 10th, and 11th January. Leave your tree in your specified location and let Lewis-Manning do the rest!
Vicki concluded, “Lets kick off 2025 with purpose and compassion, turning your tree into hope and support for local families in need, and help make a lasting impact.”
For more information and to book: Visit www.lewis-manning.org.uk/trees
How horses can change lives
THE Bovington-based Royal Armoured Corps (RAC) Saddle Club has reported a rapid increase in demand for its equineassisted learning programme, an alternative educational provision.
“We have had over 120 young people enrolled in our BHS Changing Lives Through Horses (CLTH) course, and enrolment continues to grow daily,” said yard manager Steph Buchanan.
“Despite not actively advertising the programme, we’ve experienced a 30% rise in inquiries.”
Steph said equine-assisted learning can be transformative helping young people build trust and patience as they engage with horses.
Participants gain self-esteem by overcoming their fears and benefit physically through improved balance, coordination and core strength when they choose to ride.
Youngsters come from a variety of local schools such as The Swanage School, Thomas Hardye School in Dorchester and Wey Valley Academy in Weymouth.
Wey Valley Academy principal, Mark Salmon, said: “The RAC Equine Centre and
its Changing Lives Through Horses courses are making a significant difference for young people at risk from Wey Valley Academy.
“Through this alternative provision, they develop essential personal, social and equine skills that help them re-engage with learning and explore future career opportunities.
“Many have reported substantial improvements in their self-esteem.”
Steph said several students had shown exceptional progress and a strong interest in working with horses.
“We’re excited to share that three of our young people are now on track to pursue BHS awards, which will lead to industry qualifications,” she added.
The programme operates with a blend of volunteers and paid non-teaching coaches.
Mr Salmon added: “The staff and volunteers at the RAC Centre possess outstanding equine knowledge and experience, but what truly stands out is their kindness and empathy towards every young person, regardless of their situation.”
The Saddle Club welcomes inquiries about the CLTH programme.
The centre, with a team of volunteers, provides one-to-one attention and small group sessions.
Anyone who would like to help a young person build confidence should reach out to the Saddle Club for more information. Volunteers receive training and other benefits.
Our loose Canon
With a rollercoaster year ahead, it’s important to focus on the good news…
by Canon Eric Woods
IN my first draft of this article, I began by writing that “As a nation, we greet the turbulence of this New Year with defences lowered. We are a divided society, often bitterly so. There are yawning political, economic and racial divides in our land, exacerbated by a kind of cancer of the soul caused by our modern diet of consumerist values. The instant gratification of every whim is the name of the game, and many people actually feel entitled to have anything and everything they want, and to have it now. And when they see others flaunting what they themselves don’t have, it breeds a deep anger: irrational, illogical, but anger just the same.”
should not be fooled by the media: since when have they regarded good news as of any interest? They are only concerned with talking-up the bad news.
Instead we should be celebrating all the good things which characterise our nation, such as the armies of volunteers who work with dedicated staff in our hospitals, hospices, prisons and schools. They rise to the grittiest and grimiest of challenges, working with drug addicts and in night shelters, running Food Banks and Credit Unions, soup kitchens and drop-in centres.
I went on to bemoan the collapse of moral values in our key institutions, and especially the loss of confidence so many of us feel in our elected politicians. I also talked of the collapse of perhaps the greatest source of moral authority and cohesion we possess, the family.
But then I realised that I was greeting the arrival of the New Year with one long moan. I was looking, as it were, through the wrong end of the telescope. It is so easy to be persuaded by the media that everything is hopeless, and will only get worse. But we
Then there are the tens of thousands of small acts of kindness which simply happen in our communities every day: comforting the bereaved, visiting the lonely and the unwell, offering a helping hand to the housebound, encouraging others with a word of praise and a smile. These are the things that really matter. These are the things that lighten-up all our days.
2025 will indeed be a rollercoaster year, and I wish I had more confidence in those who aspire to be our political leaders to show real leadership, and rise above personal ambition and infighting to strive for the good of the whole nation. But still the good things outweigh the bad. Yes, this year we will face great challenges. And there is no magic formula that will transform sorrow into happiness, intolerance into compassion or war into peace. But each one of us can make a difference in the tiny part of the world we each inhabit. And there is a source of strength and inspiration we can all draw upon – if only we have the faith to ask. May God bless you and keep you in the New Year.
Photo by Ilnur Kalimullin on Unsplash
Embracing the Comforts of Home: The Advantages of Live-In Care
T
he idea of live-in care is fast becoming an alternative to traditional care for the elderly in the UK. If you’re looking for a supportive and familiar environment to care for family members then live-in care could be the answer.
Here we’ll explore five reasons why considering live-in care could have a really positive impact on your later years of life.
Our familiar place
Throughout our busy lives, we spend a lot of time building, growing and taking care of our homes. They provide happy times that are shared with family, they hold special memories and are a place of comfort and rest. The importance of our homes can’t be underestimated. Being able to stay at home and have a trusted care professional stay with you and look after you there will enable you to continue to enjoy the things you have worked hard to create around you. Your chosen care professional will help to run your household, provide personal care, home-cooked meals and companionship.
Friends and neighbours
At the heart of our local area are the people who we are surrounded with during our daily lives. The longer we live in an area, the more we become entwined, getting to know other locals, making friends and living together. We become connected to our community and start to build friendships with the people around us. Being able to stay in the homes that we love, being cared for by a trusted care professional is a huge benefit and keeps us involved and bonded in the area we are familiar with.
Tailored to you
Person centred care means that care plans are developed around the individual and bespoke for each person. These plans are a way to pinpoint exactly what’s important to them, their personal expectations are and how this care will be provided. A care professional who visits that client will have access to the information they need about that person.
Promoting companionship
Being able to age in your own home gives a huge sense of independence but it can also remove the worry and stress that comes with moving to an unfamiliar place with new surroundings. You can also continue living the life that you want with the help of your live-in care professional, they can take you to appointments, to meet friends and help you run errands. The care is tailored around you, for you and is flexible around your wants and needs.
Reduced Stress for Families: Support for family carers
It can be a really worrying time for us when the health of a member of our family starts to deteriorate. We are often put in a stressful position of wanting to care for them ourselves but also having our own family lives to juggle, along with jobs and other responsibilities and it’s tough! Knowing that the person who you love is happy, well cared for and safe in their own home will take that burden away from you. Knowing too that you have been involved in the process of choosing that person to look after your relatives will bring a real sense of peace to you.
Arts & Entertainment
Radical approach to folk music
BONFIRE Radicals, who have been delighting audiences across the UK with their vibrant approach to traditional and contemporary folk music, are coming to Dorset for two dates.
They feature a front line of recorders, fiddle, clarinet and vocals set alongside a punchy rhythm section of electric guitar, bass and drums.
The six-piece’s live set includes an eclectic span of traditional folk music, energetic Irish tunes, Balkan dance and Swedish polskas.
French melodies decorate African grooves, delicate English folk song is underscored by heavy metal, klezmer moves through moments of Art Rock and Brazilian drumming accompanies snapping Scottish Strathspeys.
Bonfire Radicals’ second album, The Space Between, released in 2022, was met with great acclaim and went straight into the UK Folk Charts at number 13.
Expect intricate originals and inventive arrangements as rhythmic grooves, instrumental fireworks, rich vocal harmonies and delicate a cappella collide.
Bonfire Radicals kick off Dorset rural arts charity Artreach’s new programme at Drimpton Village Hall on Friday, January 10, at 7.30pm and at Portland Royal Manor Theatre on Saturday, January 11, both at 7.30pm.
Tickets and further information are available online at www.artsreach.co.uk
Grant Harper
Songsters from New England
INTERNATIONALLY acclaimed vocal group Windborne, from New England, USA, are known for powerful and innovative four-part vocal harmonies.
The quartet are heading to the UK following the launch of their latest album, To Warm the Winter Hearth
Audiences can expect an evening of folklore, magic and mystery as Windborne visit Dorset with welcoming wassails, songs of solstice and
music for midwinter, performed in English, Occitan and Lithuanian.
They are at Blandford Parish Church on Friday, January 17, and Yetminster Jubilee Hall on Wednesday, January 22.
Windborne are performing as part of Dorset rural arts charity Artsreach’s 2025 programme, and tickets and further information are available online at www.artsreach.co.uk
TRADITIONAL pantomime is in store when Charlton Horethorne Amateur Pantomime Society (CHAPS) presents Mother Goose.
The show is at Charlton Horethorne Village Hall from Thursday to Saturday, January 16-18, at 7.30pm with a matinee on the Saturday at 2pm.
Tickets are priced £8 adult, £4 children, or £20 for a family ticket admitting two plus two – subject to a small handling charge – at www.ticketsource.co.uk/chaps-panto.
Tickets are also available at the village shop.
(12A)
PHOTO:
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Pantomime
ABig Adventure awaits you at the Shaftesbury Art Centre with their upcoming Pantomime The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Written by Nigel Holmes and Directed by Sophia Ruel.
Follow Dorothy and her Aunt Em as they find themselves in a rather unusual place, far from their home in Kanas.
After a slight mishap involving their house and a bad witch, Dorothy must seek out the help from the Great Wizard of Oz ruling in the Emerald City to travel back home. With some help from the Good Witches and the Munchkin’s, Dorothy receives some magical slippers for protection before setting off down a yellow brick road with Aunt Em and Toto to start their biggest journey ever.
Meeting some special friends along the way, Scarecrow, Tinman and a Cowardly Lion the group band together to stay safe for a Wicked Witch stalks their every step trying to steal Dorothy’s magical slippers.
With toe tapping songs, energetic dances, a lost Princess and pouting Prince this Steampunk inspired show is guaranteed to leave you “Somewhere over the Rainbow”.
Performances run from the 23rd January till 1st February 2025.
The 2025 Shaftesbury Festival of Baroque
Think harpsichords, violins, sparkling harmonies, bright melodies — think Vivaldi, Purcell, Bach! That’s the Baroque age (c.1600-1750), when innovative and glorious music flourished and poets such as Pope and Donne created delightful, witty verse.
Shaftesbury Arts Centre is to celebrate that wonderful period in the second Shaftesbury Festival of Baroque. No fewer than ten events over five days (all daytime) will enchant and entertain — concerts and recitals, of course, plus a film (on Purcell), a talk (on performances in Shaftesbury and area), a contest (between four great poets) and a Bach workshop/masterclass.
Musicians expert in the baroque tradition and on authentic period instruments, from as far as Cumbria, will perform for this special occasion.
Between Wednesday 22nd and Sunday 26th January the Festival will welcome you at venues in Shaftesbury including the Arts Centre recital rooms, St Peter ‘s church and the Grosvenor Hotel Assembly Room.
Tickets for both the Panto and Festival are available now at the Shaftesbury Arts Centre, online at www.shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk, or from the box office, in person or on (01747) 854321, which is open from 10.00 until 12.30 Monday to Saturday.
Tickets for our Panto are Adults £15, Members and Friends £12.50, under 18’s £10. There is also a Family ticket of £40 for two adults and two children (no member discount on Family tickets).
Tickets for the Festival range from £5 to £15, with reductions for members, and there is a generous discount for attendance at all ten events. Under 18’s are free.
New Blackmore Vale, January 3, 2025
Church
• Anglican High Mass at Wimborne St Giles: First Sunday of each month at 11am. BH21 5LZ.
• Blandford Methodist Church: Sundays – everyone is invited to services at 10.45am and to stay for refreshments. Thursdays – coffee and a chat from 10am-noon. Fridays –lunch club for 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.
• Cheap Street Church, Sherborne: Prayer time –9.45am Thursday; Thought for the Day – 10.30am Thursday; Sunday service at 10.30am; Monday Music second Monday of the month at 6.15pm with a bring and share supper; Taizé Service second Sunday each month at 6.30pm. Further details from 07522 509868.
• Sherborne Churches Together: Dorset Youth for Christ ‘Youth Hangout’, a space for young people aged six-11 in Sherborne to connect with others their age, play games and explore the Christian faith. Every second Sunday of the month, 6.30-7.30pm.
• Digby Memorial Church Hall: Sherborne Quakers meet Sundays 10.30am in the Griffiths Room. Everyone welcome. For more information, phone Nick on 07870 192599. The Children’s Choir rehearses on Mondays at 4pm – contact charlie.gurnham@ sherborneabbey.com, assistant director of music, to join, or just turn up.
• 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.
• Lillington: All morning services at Lillington now begin at 9.30am.
• Longburton Village Cafe: Held in the village church of St James, the cafe provides tea, coffee – free refills – and great cakes for just £2.50. Tuesdays, January 7 and 21, 10.30 am-noon.
• Lufton Church: BA22 8SU, just to the west of Yeovil. Prayer Book services every Sunday at 6pm. Sung Mass on the third Sunday. See www. lufton.co.uk for details.
• Our Lady’s RC Church, Marnhull: Mass Sunday, 9am and 6pm.
• Sacred Heart, Tisbury, and All Saints’ Wardour Catholic Parish: Sunday Mass times –Sacred Heart, Tisbury, 9am, coffee after Mass; All Saints’ Wardour 10.30am.
• Shapwick: Third Sunday of the month, 9.15am Holy Communion.
• 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.
• Sherborne Abbey organ
recitals: Mondays at 1.30 pm, free entry, retiring collection, everyone welcome.
• Sherborne Abbey Remembering the Fallen: Short service on the third Friday of the month at 11am in the Lady Chapel.
• Sherborne Abbey: Anyone who would like to donate towards a leaving gift for Sue Morgan, head guardian for over six years, can do so at the Parish Office. A presentation will be made in the New Year – date/ time to be announced – to thank her for her hard work and commitment to the abbey.
• Sherborne Abbey: The abbey’s Faith in Action Committee is seeking unused art materials, and board games and jigsaw puzzles, to support the Friends of Guys Marsh, which offers support to prisoners. To donate, text trustee, Mary-Ann, on 07900 056551 to arrange collection.
• Sherborne Abbey: The Julian Group is not a prayer group but offers an opportunity for silence and meditation with fellow Christians. Meetings are ecumenical and very refreshing. Next meeting in the Lady Chapel on Wednesday, January 8, 4pm-4.30pm.
• 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 Margaret’s, Margaret Marsh (Shaftesbury Benefice) SP7 0AZ: Alternating first Sundays Mattins and Holy Communion, 11.15am. Everyone welcome.
• 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 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.
• Witchampton Church: Third Sunday of the month, 10.30am Holy Communion.
• Two Rivers Benefice: Sunday, January 5 – 10.45am Together Communion at St Mary’s Church, Blandford St Mary. Sunday, January 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, Tarrant Keynston. Sunday, January 19 – 9.30am Communion at St John the Baptist, Spetisbury; 9.30am Family Service at St Mary’s Church, Charlton Marshall; 11am Morning Worship at All Saints, Langton Long; 11am Communion at St Mary’s Church, Tarrant Rushton. Sunday, January 26 –9.30am Communion at St Mary’s Church, Charlton Marshall; 9.30am Morning Worship at St John The Baptist, Spetisbury; 11am Communion at All Saints, Langton Long; 11am BCP Communion at St Mary Church, Blandford St Mary. Coffee and cake –Spetisbury 10am-11.30am first and third Monday each month. Coffee and cake – Blandford St Mary 10am-11.30am, January 23. Coffee stop – Charlton Marshall Parish Centre 10.30am-12.30pm, Tuesday to Friday.
• West Camel Independent Methodists: Meeting at All Saints Church BA22 7QB. Sunday, January 5, 3pm –United Tea @ Three. A very warm welcome to everyone. Phone 01935 850838 or email Geoff.mead@yahoo.com.
Challenging year could lie ahead
I AM writing this prior to Christmas but print timelines mean you will be reading this post the Big Day. I hope you had a very enjoyable, peaceful and safe Christmas. Let me start by wishing you the happiest of New Years and a 2025 full of good things.
A new year either brings New Year’s resolutions – often pie crust in durability or an attempt to crystal ball gaze, Mystic Meg-like into the future. From an international perspective, the incoming Trump White House will be ‘interesting’. Will he be true to form or seek to be more of a Father to the Nation international leader? My fear is he will be the former – bad news for climate change, Ukraine and the Rule of Law. Instability in both France and Germany, the two economic powerhouses of the EU, does not bode well. At home, I fear that as the totality of parts of the Budget begin to be implemented and bite, that our nation’s economy will come under severe pressure both in
Conservative MP for North Dorset
terms of confidence and scope of operations. Inflation is creeping up, meaning interest rate reductions are delayed or cancelled. Employer confidence is likely to continue to worsen, meaning that a period of stagnation or worse, recession, hovers on the horizon.
By any rational assessment, the Government came in with undoubted good intentions but no real plan for delivery. Gaps
in understanding and experience have not been filled by reaching out to those with the wherewithal to improve policy. We have to hope that as Ministers feel more comfortable in their roles, the act in haste repent in leisure attitude to governing will disappear. In my last article I set out the broken promises surrounding Winter Fuel Allowance, the Family Farms Death Tax and the hammer blow of NICs increases and threshold lowering. I am sure you, like me, had hoped that there would be a preChristmas respite, but no. Just before the House rose, we learned that WASPI women would not receive what they expected to receive from the Government. This will be a disappointment to them as they were promised the opposite by Labour in Opposition. It is another example of say one thing to get elected and do another when having been. Voters will neither forgive nor forget.
I appeared on Times Radio recently in a new programme
called MPs It’s a Knockout, hosted by Ed Vaizey. Two MPs have to give three interesting facts about their constituencies and then a winner is declared. I am delighted that North Dorset won. I offered up the fact that the Hovis ad had been filmed in Shaftesbury, not Yorkshire – did you know it was directed by Ridley Scott of Gladiator fame?. That the famous chandelier scene in Only Fools & Horses was filmed at Clayesmore School and that Buster Merryfield (Uncle Albert) is buried in Verwood. And, finally, that Asil Nadir fled the police by flying to Cyprus from Compton Abbas Airfield – now owned by Guy Ritchie – to escape justice following the collapse of Polly Peck.
I mentioned above that I feel/ fear 2025 will be full of challenges. I stand ready to assist and help you wherever and whenever I can. Please do email me on simon.hoare.mp@ parliament.uk with your issue or to book an advice surgery appointment. Again, I wish you a happy New Year.
MP hits out on delivery office visit
THE MP for Glastonbury and Somerton, Sarah Dyke, visited Wincanton’s Delivery Office in the run-up to Christmas to meet postal workers during their busiest time of the year.
Ms Dyke commended their dedication, particularly during the Christmas rush, when Royal Mail handles twice the usual volume of letters and parcels.
She said: “Royal Mail’s posties are the backbone of our communities, especially during the festive season.
“I have immense respect for the dedication of our Wincanton team and all postal workers across Glastonbury and Somerton.”
She added that postal
workers will be concerned about the Government’s recent approval of the company’s takeover by Czech billionaire, Daniel Kretinsky.
Ofcom has also announced it is fining Royal Mail’s management £10.5 million for missed delivery targets.
Ms Dyke said: “I have no doubt staff this Christmas will have deep concerns about the state of things and new owners coming in, especially as the incoming owners have only committed to keeping Royal Mail HQ operations in the UK for five years.
“I hope the new owners will respect the hard work of frontline staff, support them
adequately, and commit to radical change to turn the systemic failures at the top of the company around.
“It is incredibly
disappointing that Royal Mail leadership has been given such a huge fine, which can only point to gross mismanagement.”
Simon Hoare
Sarah Dyke meets postal workers in Wincanton
Politics
I HOPE you and your family had a wonderful Christmas and a relaxing break from everyone’s busy work schedule. One of the many great joys of having young children is to reimagine the magic of Christmas again through their eyes. The excitement of decorating the tree, laying out the refreshments of a glass of Guinness and mince pies for ‘Father Christmas’ before bed, and the inevitable extremely early wake-up to see if there has been a special delivery of presents. To share in their excitement is one of the great highlights of the festivities and I hope we have at least a few more years yet until the inevitable questions start to come. All the more reason to diligently make sure there is no trace of the refreshment left come the morning!
Labour’s plans to tear up national and local planning policy protections against development on green belt and
Christmas and over consumption Immigration and housing shortage
AFTER a turbulent year, and a very rough ride for the less fortunate of us, we’ve finally reached the season when we’re called on to be jolly again. Urged to spend spend spend on as much cheap stuff as we can. Especially stuff that will soon be either broken or worn out and then discarded. Or perhaps, after being politely thanked for, tucked away in a drawer or secretly taken to a charity shop with the hope that the giver doesn’t spot it in the window.
My African childhood experience of Christmas was very much more restrained, with just a couple of presents under the tree rather than a pile. I know some people absolutely love putting up decorations, sending cards and buying presents, but for many people Christmas has simply become a hyper-consumption event where
Reform UK Dorset county organiser Thomas Gargrave
open countryside will have a very significant impact on Dorset which is earmarked under Labour’s new metric for substantially more housing to be built.
Starmer said it himself, nature will come second to its development plans. This reckless building spree over our
Ken Huggins on behalf of the Green Party in North Dorset
the level of pleasure is determined by the amount of expenditure.
Some time ago my mum had a bright idea, and instead of physical presents, she started making a donation to charities in the name of the person the gift was for. For me it was MAP,
countryside will do nothing to solve the housing crisis but will result in significant further overdevelopment of the county and the associated traffic and pressures on infrastructure will only exacerbate existing problems.
1.5 million houses are to be built during the next five years, apparently, but what Labour fails to mention is that its own forecasts assume 2.5m migrants arriving over the same period. It means that five out of seven new homes will go just to housing new arrivals, using Labour’s own figures.
The reality is that there is not a housing crisis, there is an immigration crisis. We simply cannot ever hope to build enough houses to satisfy the Tories’ and Labour’s open-door, mass immigration policies and, in trying to, we are going to do massive damage to what little remains of our natural world and countryside in England.
We need net-neutral migration and a laser focus on
getting our own young people and those priced out of the current housing market into home ownership, building up, not out. London, for example, now covers over 660 square miles but is predominantly just two-storey development. Compared to other European and International cities, London is very low-density. There is huge scope to redevelop within existing urbanised areas through densification, these urban areas also being where many young people would prefer to live and where it would be much easier to add the infrastructure needed to support a higher number of people living. Continuing to run an open borders immigration policy, as the Tories and Labour have, in conjunction with relentless lateral housing development, will mean we permanently lose what is left of our countryside. Build up, not out, focus on high quality homes for our own people and preserve our countryside for the next generation to enjoy.
Medical Aid for Palestine, a cause that is tragically needed now more than ever. If you like the idea, then closer to home there is the excellent Vale Pantry in Stur to support.
The Black Friday sales blitz heralds the start of the Christmas overconsumption boom, and this year I was encouraged to see reports of consumer resistance in the form of a growing trend called ‘underconsumption core’, typically among people in their 20s. Some are attracted to it for obvious environmental reasons, and others as a way to feel better about not being able to afford to keep up with their better off peers. Whatever the reasons, it illustrates the power we consumers have. What we choose to buy, and what not to buy, can help to bring about the positive changes that are needed
to reduce the excessive overconsumption that is driving so many of the problems the planet is facing. We should not have to be constantly buying things to have a happy and fulfilling life. Family, friends and community are what we need to value most.
Living Spit’s brilliant version of Dickens’ Christmas Carol at the Exchange in Stur was a welcome evening of laughs, and a reminder of the excellent entertainment the Exchange enables us to enjoy. We are privileged indeed to have such a venue, and grateful thanks are due to the volunteers who help to keep it going. For those of us who can’t volunteer our time, there is the option of donating to the present crowdfunder to help the Exchange to keep going. Another present idea perhaps? Happy New Year all!
REMEMBRANCE Sunday is a fixed point on my calendar. It was a pleasure to be at the Festival of Remembrance in Trowbridge on November 8 honouring the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings. As usual, I attended our 3pm service in Warminster – as the local MP but also as president of the local branch of the Royal British Legion. Record attendance, it seemed to me.
Farmers in South West Wiltshire have had more worries than many in the last couple of months after Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced in her first Budget that she’s going to levy Inheritance Tax on farm businesses. I met several Wiltshire farmers in Parliament on November 19 and felt truly dispirited to hear how this unnecessary and vindicative policy may well end generations
The turn of a tumultuous year Government’s six milestones
FIRSTLY, can I wish all readers a happy New Year. We make much of this celebration of the Gregorian calendar. I find the midwinter solstice the more profound event, grounded in the cycle of the Earth around the Sun. Whichever, we are provided an opportunity to gather one’s thoughts and look forward.
In that vein, I’m going to look forward with the ‘milestones for change’ the Prime Minister announced in December. They have not been chosen because they are easily delivered, but with relentless focus will drive real change by the end of the Parliament.
Any one of them would be challenging but taken together they are the most ambitious and honest plan for government in a generation. They will galvanise efforts across government and beyond and allow the public to track our progress.
Labour’s Plan for Change sets six milestones that working people can feel by the end of this
Conservative MP for South West Wiltshire
Dr Andrew Murrison
of farming on the same land. Had the Government picked the targets it claims – big institutional investors who buy up land to avoid Inheritance Tax and so inflate land prices – I’d be perfectly happy. But it hasn’t. Instead, according to the independent Central Association for Agricultural Values, 75,000 farms will be affected in 30
Greg Williams, on behalf of Dorset Labour
Parliament. These six milestones are:
1 – Higher Living Standards across the country, measured by Real Household Disposable Income per capita. So, working people have more money in their pocket as we deliver the fastest growth in the G7.
2 – Rebuilding Britain, with 1.5 million homes over the Parliament and planning decisions made on at least 150 major economic infrastructure projects.
years. That’s five times higher than the Government’s estimates. This is simply unworthy and unfair. I’ve been urging in the House of Commons, and will continue to urge, the Government to reconsider.
November was not only marked by the family farm tax but by two interesting votes –the first on banning tobacco and the other on assisted dying. I voted in favour of banning the sale of tobacco to anyone presently aged 15 or under. As a doctor, I’ve seen too many patients suffer and die from smoking-related diseases to prolong it into the next generation. As a son, I saw my father die before his time from lung cancer. The hard-pressed NHS will not in future need to deal with the manifold, awful consequences of smoking. The
Bill is a public health triumph. I voted against assisted dying. I very much empathise with both sides of this debate which has occupied a big chunk of my mailbag since the election. However, I am deeply worried that the Bill will begin a process leading to the old, frail and vulnerable to feel obligated to be complicit in their own demise. It seems likely, judging by other nations’ experience, that the scope of assisted dying will expand over time and that our focus on good palliative care will diminish.
The day before that vote, I met Warminster Scouts to talk about Parliament and being an MP. It was a real delight, not just because of their enthusiasm or the nostalgia for my own youth. They also gave me plenty of hope for the future, and for the year now dawning.
3 – Ending hospital backlogs by meeting the NHS standard of 92% of patients waiting fewer than 18 weeks from referral to treatment.
4 – Police back on the beat, with 13,000 more officers, PCSOs and special constables in neighbourhood roles and a named officer in every community through our Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee in England and Wales.
5 – A best start to life for children with a record proportion of five-year-olds starting school ready to learn, allowing teachers to focus on the whole class. That means 75% hitting the Early Years Foundation Standard at age five, up from 67% currently.
6 – Secure, home-grown energy, with bill payers protected as we deliver Clean Power 2030. These milestones are underpinned by our unwavering commitment to the foundations of good government:
• Economic stability: Meeting
our fiscal rules and taking a responsible approach to public finances, so that the government does not borrow to fund day-to-day spending and net financial debt is falling as a share of the economy. Only in doing this can we grow our economy while keeping taxes as low, and inflation as stable, as possible.
• Border security: Restoring order to the asylum and immigration systems, delivering lower net migration, clearing the asylum backlog to end the use of hotels, increasing returns and reducing small boat crossings.
• National security: Working with our international partners, we will act to prevent harm; disrupt threats; respond effectively to incidents; and recover swiftly. No policy commitment matters unless we uphold the first duty of any government – to keep the country safe.
I will try and provide updates on these milestones as the year progresses.
Sudoku 3D puzzle
Cryptic crossword
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
column and bold-lined
Brain chain (hard version)
Antiques & Collectibles
Vast collection of advertising cans
CLARKE’S Auctions would like to thank its clients for all their support throughout 2024 and is looking forward to its first sale of 2025.
The auction house is now busy clearing the decks for its February sale, after its mammoth four-day sale last week, and is now taking entries.
Prospective sellers are invited to give it a call to arrange for a specialist valuer to appraise their items.
Clarke’s moved to Gillingham last summer and has settled into its new premises.
Looking back on the year it saw some good results with a painting by Cedric Lockwood selling for £19,000 hammer, a Howard & Sons Bridgewater armchair for £4,000 and a 16th century pressed horn casket fetching £4,800.
Clarke’s has gained a reputation locally for offering single owner collections and it will soon be auctioning the second half of a vast single owner collection of vintage Victorian and later advertising tins amassed over several decades.
Estimates range from a few pounds to a few hundred pounds.
The practice of packing food in tin cans came about in the early 1800s as it was considered more sanitary than food offered in communal bins or barrels and has become a strong collectors’ market nowadays.
Clarke’s is taking entries for future sales, and enquiries for consignment into its spring 2025 sales, probate or insurance valuations, part and full house clearances or home visits should be made to Richard Clarke or Karen Marshall on 01747 685592 or 01747 855109 at the salerooms at The Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road, Gillingham SP8 4QF.
Clarke’s Auctions
Next Sale
Friday 7th & Saturday 8th February 2025 Antiques & Collectables
Friday 9th & Saturday 10th August An original Fry & Sons 'Fry's Pure Concentrated Cocoa' enamel sign. Sold for £1,600. Clarke’s Auctions o er free home visits and verbal
Cedric Lockwood Morris (1889-1982) Study of Goldfinches oil on board
Sold for £19,000
Painting could sell for £10,000
DORSET’S hearths burn in unison to the pale grace of December, igniting a desire for art and furniture of exceptional quality to adorn the walls and halls of busy homes this winter.
Meanwhile, Duke’s Auctioneers readies in quiet anticipation of its next major sale – the Winter Auction. Featuring a curated collection of antique paintings, sculptures, books, furniture, carpets and more to warm the heart of your home this New Year.
A highlight of the sale is an oil on panel after Peter Paul Rubens (1577-1640) and Jan II Brueghel (1601-78) titled Christ
Now accepting items for this and future sales e Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road Gillingham, SP8 4QF 01747 685592 enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk
The Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road Gillingham, SP8 4QF 01747 685592 enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk
A small number of the collection of advertising tins for sale
in the Home of Martha and Mary (pictured) featuring Christ, crowned in holy diadem, praising Mary’s desire and choice to listen, instead of completing her tasks, prioritising the spirituality over work.
The piece is extraordinary to behold, with a deceptive vibrance and detail, unmarked by the centuries. It is estimated at £5,000-£10,000.
The Winter Auction includes the esteemed contents of Wabey House, Upwey, with the entire catalogue ready to view online from January 16.
Viewing commences on Monday, January 27, followed by the auction on Thursday, January 30.
For more information, visit www.dukes-auctions.com
Jeep sale set to benefit air ambulance service
A CLASSIC military Jeep is entered into the Charterhouse auction of classic cars at the Haynes Motor Museum on Thursday, March 27, with the owner kindly donating the proceeds to Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance.
“The owner bought the Jeep from us nearly 20 years ago,” said Richard Bromell, from the auction house.
“While he has enjoyed owning the Jeep, he has not used it since 2020 and decided to auction it and give the proceeds to this worthy charity.”
Made by Hotchkiss under licence from Jeep in 1957, this model M201 was the standard light utility used by the French army from shortly after the Second World War until production ended in 1966, with
the last M201 coming out of service in 2000.
Richard Bromell and the Charterhouse team can be contacted for valuations on
classic and vintage cars and automobilia at The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne; phone 01935 812277; or via cars@ charterhouse-auction.com
Antiques and collectors, Jewellery, silver and watches
ACREMAN St. Auctioneers & Valuers Sherborne is holding its General Antiques & Collectors auction, including Oriental and Coins, on Thursday, January 30, at 10am, and its Jewellery, Silver & Watches sale on Friday, January 31.
Acreman is now holding regular valuation days at which prospective sellers can take in
items to its premises at 121 Acreman Street, Sherborne (DT9 3PH) for its specialists to evaluate.
Valuation days, 10am-3pm:
• Jewellery & Watches –Tuesdays and Saturdays
• Silver & Obje’t D’art –Tuesdays and Saturdays
• Toys & Collectables –Wednesdays and Saturdays
ORIGINAL MOTOR RACING & MOTORING memorabilia wanted by established local dealer -Tel 07771 518629
Classic Cars & Motorbikes For private collection Call 07885 373113 or 01278 431244 Graham
• Oriental & Asian – Thursdays and Saturdays
• Coins, Stamps, Books & Ephemera – Fridays and Saturdays
• Militaria – Fridays and Saturdays
• Textiles & Fashion –Saturdays
• Paintings & Contemporary Art
– Saturdays
Alternatively, phone or email to make an appointment if you are unable to go in on the allocated days.
Acreman is also happy to make house visits if required.
It is now accepting consignments for upcoming sales and is happy to advise prospective sellers on anything they may be considering for
auction.
Photographs can be emailed to auction@acremanstreet antiques.co.uk or take in items for its experts to take a look at.
Acreman is open Monday to Saturday 9am-4pm.
It can take in everything from single items to complete collections.
Acreman is happy to help with advice or valuations to anyone downsizing or who needs to deal with a whole house and can arrange a full house clearance at competitive rates.
Anyone who has anything they would like to consign can contact Gill Norman on 01935 508764 or 07908 333577 or by email at the address above.
Shoami Katsuyoshi
School steps back in time for nativity performance
A NATIVITY play originally created at Hanford School in 1960, which has been performed at the school every year since, has wowed audiences again.
The nativity was originally written for Hanford’s founder, Sarah Canning, by Donald Kittermaster, an English teacher at The King’s School, Worcester, in 1960 using words from the King James Bible, Wordsworth and TS Elliot.
The music was chosen by Mr Kittermaster’s wife, Meriel, and costumes were donated by Lady Rockley, from the Amerhurst Collection.
The same play, set to the same music and with the same costumes, has been performed by girls in years 7 and 8 ever since.
The most recent performance took place last month.
A spokesperson for the school said: “The sense of
history was tangible on a chilly and windy Sunday evening, and Francoise Witheridge, who has been directing the play since 1989, said she felt a real sense of responsibility to keep the play exactly as it was originally intended.
“The choreography of the play is such that different scenes from famous pieces of art, such as Botticelli, Guido Reni and Murillo, are re-created, adding an additional layer of interest
and poignancy.
“We were delighted to be joined this year by Joy Plested, who was one of the very first cohort of girls joining Hanford when the school was founded in 1947.
“Joy, then called Joy Graham, joined the school the following year in 1948, and entertained current pupils with tales about the school’s early days.”
Hilary Phillips, head of
Hanford, praised the girls’ performance.
“This was a wonderful production, the nativity is one of Hanford’s most precious traditions,” she said.
“It has been performed in the hall at Hanford since 1960 every year, and I look forward to many more performances in the years to come.”
Student stars in short film about teen mental health
A 13-YEAR-OLD boy from Sherborne is starring in a short film which brings attention to teenage mental health issues.
Jake Kemp, a pupil at The Gryphon School in Sherborne, is one of the main characters in I Am Enough – a short film written by Lauren J Irwin who voices the hugely popular Peppa Pig audiobook series.
The film focuses on a group of young adults who try to navigate the overwhelming challenges of their mental health, each burdened by feelings of inadequacy.
The film features people struggling with bipolar disorder, self-harm, eating disorders, and other hidden battles.
Jake, who has been acting since he was seven, plays the character Ryan who he describes as the “hard, cool kid”.
“He’s made to go to a counselling group for troubled teens, but he hates it at first,” he said.
“Everyone thinks he’s a drug dealer but it’s actually his brother making him do things and intimidating him, so although he acts hard he’s actually really scared and has a horrible home life.”
Jake said he hopes the film will help other young people who are struggling with their mental health.
“It’s so important [to be open about your mental health] but teens don’t as they feel embarrassed, but in actual fact we all have our own issues and insecurities that we hide,” he said.
He added: “I’ve been acting since I was seven and done several films and commercials but I’m most proud of this project.”
Filming took place in
Liverpool in the summer, and Jake said the cast were allowed to help with other jobs on set to help boost their experience and knowledge.
“[The filming] was amazing, we filmed the whole thing over three days in Liverpool,” he said.
“It was really hard, as had so much to fit in, but it was great fun. We also got to do crew jobs like sound and boom.”
Jake’s mother, Jo, said she hopes the film will help other young people going through a similar situation.
“I am so proud of him,” she said.
“[The film] is so hard-hitting and I really think this will do some good and can be used to help teens.”
Jake just filmed another short film in Los Angeles where he also met several casting directors.
I Am Enough has been submitted for short film festivals around the world.
Jake plays the character Ryan who is thought to be a drug dealer by his peers
Picture: Wildraff Productions
Home & Garden
Iris brings anticipation of better days to come
by Sally Gregson
IRISES are a many and various tribe, thriving in such diverse positions as damp, boggy ponds, and dry, sun-baked terraces. So, to discover a species that flowers in midwinter should not come as a surprise.
In these early, dark days of the year, the Algerian Iris, I. unguicularis, opens out its large petals whenever the sun shines. And it brings joy, and anticipation for better days to come.
Plant a clump at the foot of a hot, sunny wall, and it will produce large, soft blue, scented
flowers – ideal to pick for a day on the kitchen table. They are the perfect antidote to a wet winter’s day.
Iris unguicularis is native to the southern and eastern Mediterranean and to the dry shores of North Africa, where it grows in open, sun-baked ground. Like so much of the indigenous flora, the flowers are taking advantage of the winter rainfall in such a hot clime. And the microclimate is a factor when looking for a suitable position in a cold, damp, English garden – but be warned, it can be killed with kindness. Make sure the site is bone-dry
and sunny. Resist the temptation to dollop lots of garden compost or well-rotted manure on the plant in the autumn, and it will reward you with flowers all winter.
There are a few selections to choose from, although the basic species is very garden-worthy. Iris u. ‘Mary Barnard’ has altogether more intensely purple flowers than the species. Its leaves are shorter and the whole
plant deserves a special place, uncluttered by its neighbours. There is the much less available form, Iris u. ‘Abington Purple’ with much darker purple flowers on strong plants, if you do spot one in spring. They all have the quality of lifting the spirit on a gloomy January day, bringing a shot of sunshine into every gardener’s heart. Their flowers are true harbingers of spring.
CONTACT FOR FREE QUOTATION 01747 822080
CONTACT FOR FREE QUOTATION 01747 822080
info@kingsmeresurfacing.co.uk www.kingsmeresurfacing.co.uk
info@kingsmeresurfacing.co.uk www.kingsmeresurfacing.co.uk
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Kingsmere Surfacing are a specialist driveway company working within Dorset, Wiltshire & Somerset. We can transform the look of your home, by laying a new surface to your driveway, giving a beautiful, eye catching and individual look.
Kingsmere Surfacing are a specialist driveway company working within Dorset, Wiltshire & Somerset. We can transform the look of your home, by laying a new surface to your driveway, giving a beautiful, eye catching and individual look.
Kingsmere Surfacing are a specialist driveway company working within Dorset, Wiltshire & Somerset. We can transform the look of your home, by laying a new surface to your driveway, giving a beautiful, eye catching and individual look.
Kingsmere Surfacing are a specialist driveway company working within Dorset, Wiltshire & Somerset. We can transform the look of your home, by laying a new surface to your driveway, giving a beautiful, eye catching and individual look.
Kingsmere Surfacing are a specialist driveway company working within Dorset, Wiltshire & Somerset. We can transform the look of your home, by laying a new surface to your driveway, giving a beautiful, eye catching and individual look.
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Services offered include:
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• Decorative Resin Bound & Bonded Aggregate
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Home & Garden
WANTED -
Dave buys all types of tools
ASBESTOS REMOVAL
Garages, Sheds, Lean to’s, Roofing and Cladding Collection and Dismantling BY Registered Hazardous Waste Carrier Call 07973 444620 or 01722 414478
Call 01935 428975 SELF DRIVE DIGGER AND DUMPER HIRE
SMALL FENCING JOBS. New or repair. Special Low Rates for OAP’s. No VAT. Phone Phillip on 07716-207150
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COLLINS & TODD PRESSURE WASHING, call or message: 07309-657147
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For all your fencing and decking
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Sherborne Fencing Ltd
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We also deliver compost, pots, bark, logs and other gardening products. 01458241230 or 07950-261510
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Get in the Garden
Home & Garden
The uncertain winter
ONE of the concerns with a changing climate is not having a ‘proper’ winter. Many plants rely on the cold and when it warms up they know it’s spring and time to wake up. Seeds, such as some Delphinium, are unable to germinate unless they have had a period of cold. Once the cold is over the seed is ready to germinate in spring.
Come summer, seeds such as wallflowers and lettuce won’t germinate when the temperature is too high, which is a sensible thing to do, but frustrating at the same time.
Blackcurrants have a cold requirement to flower properly in spring from which, of course, the fruit is borne in summer. For many plants the cold is important as it means they go dormant, hunkering down for the winter months, which makes them less susceptible to things like waterlogging in winter. A plant that hasn’t gone dormant is much more prone to being damaged by this.
The milder conditions have affected the traditional time for crops of ‘bare rooted’ plants such as native hedging which are available as soon as the leaves have fallen. This used to be late October 10 or 15 years ago but now is never before the end of November. Such plants can be transplanted when they are dormant and because they are field grown are cheaper to produce, making them excellent value. The period in which they can be planted has narrowed and the opportunity to plant them
to avoid waterlogged or frozen soils is limited, too.
There are some pest control benefits with regular frosts, as this kills some insects that feed off the plants we are trying to nurture. With temperatures rising, pests are becoming able to move and establish further north than in the past, which is a further concern.
The varying temperatures mean we need to respond more to what’s happening at any one time rather than stick to traditional timeframes. Horticultural fleece can be used to protect vulnerable plants by loosely wrapping them in a layer or two. Pots on the patio can be clustered together closer to the house for mutual protection with hessian as useful insulation to keep the pots, and the roots in those pots, safe. In years past I might have said do this in early December, but now it’s a waiting game keeping an eye on the forecast as over cosseting such plants isn’t good for them either.
Tasks that still can be done no matter what the weather include mulching the beds and borders and vegetable plots with biodegradable material such as your own garden compost, well-rotted farm manure, bio digestates such as Bloomin’ Amazing and chipped bark. This will keep the soil warm, protect it from torrential rain, and as it breaks down, will improve the quality of the soil below while locking in carbon, too.
Spring isn’t too far away – but there is no certainty when it will come!
The latest gardening news, hints and tips, with Mike Burks, MD of The Gardens Group
Home & Garden
North Dorset Tree Surgeons
We carry out all aspects of tree surgery, hedge cutting and stump grinding. Ash dieback specialist. Fully insured and NPTC qualified.
DRYSTONE WALLING AND LANDSCAPING
www.yenstonewalling.co.uk
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FOREVER-GREEN LANDSCAPES. All aspects of garden maintenance & landscaping 01747 825134 / 07885-586716
Home & Garden
GREENHOUSES
Supplied/Erected Alloy TenColours Spares-Repairs-Glass Chris Abrams 01258-452632
WOODLAND CLEARING AND COPPICING, pruning, hedge cutting, Chain-sawing and general garden/estate maintenance. Call David: 07786-658708
PETER PORT UPHOLSTERY A Local Family Run
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LANGTON NURSERIES (C W Abbott & Son) Seed
Potatoes, Bare Root Hedging, IOW Garlic and Onion Sets. Fruit Trees and Ornamental Trees, Perennials & Shrubs, Large selection of; stoneware, terracotta and glazed pots, Wild Bird food 20kg £14.50, Stockists of Kings, Franchi and Fothergill Budget Seeds, Potting Compost. Open daily 10am– 3 pm. Langton Long Blandford Forum Dorset DT11 9HR. Telephone 01258 452513
Local Services
CARPETS
CHIMNEYS
K.SANSOM CHIMNEY SWEEP
Brush & vacuum. APICS registered 01963 370038
STEVE ADAMS CHIMNEY SWEEPING
HETAS registered woodburner and flue installer. Birdguards and cowls 07932 655267
Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
B.SNOOK CHIMNEYS.
Problem chimneys, bush vacuum sweep, new bird cowls replaced on pots including New pots. Any distance. Donhead. 01747828904. (5million pounds insurance certificate cover)
MARTIN SIMMONDS CHIMNEY SWEEP Friendly, Reliable, Professional 07368-250305 or 01747 590799
SOLID FUEL INSTALLATIONS LTD
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insuring a quality finish and not waiting for other tradesmen. Established reputable company with excellent reviews and vetted by checkatrade. Relining existing woodburners, all building work undertaken from plastering/rendering/demolition and fireplace alterations even exterior painting or chimney/roof leak fixing.
• False fireplaces & media walls
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Joseph Crocker Computers
CGLI. 01258 471194
Meditations in nature: New Year contemplations
by Susanna Curtin
I AM on a New Year pilgrimage today to my special place on Dartmoor. It is just a typical granite outcrop on the Southern moorland, but it has called me to its summit for the last 30 years. There is something about this place that speaks to me, as though it knows me and my life story. From these stony heights, I have laughed and cried and have spent many happy days playing and picnicking with loved ones. Unlike so many of the places I like to visit, the landscape here never changes. Although my circumstances, and I, change from time to time, this place is constant. I find it conciliating and a pertinent reminder that the land itself outlives us all.
As I clamber up the gnarly, lichen-covered granite, I find the same hollowed out ‘seat’ –weathered by the pools of water and ice that have settled here. In one direction, I can see the sunlight over the ocean, and from the other, the moorland rolls out to the north uninterrupted by neither buildings nor people. Being here affords me a bigger perspective from which to contemplate not only the year ahead, but also the intricate wonders of the world around us.
Closing my eyes, just for a second, I pause to consider the forces of nature that are around me. At 55 degrees north, the Earth is spinning around its axis at nearly 700mph. At the same time, the Earth is orbiting the sun at 67,000mph, and then there is the inestimable speed of travel of our galaxy towards the
edge of infinity. Yet, all the time, gravity and the law of relativity keeps us still. Beneath my hands is solid granite, a volcanic igneous rock that formed from the magma deep within the Earth. Even this is comprised of closely knit molecules that are moving and vibrating but are similarly undetectable by us. I then look up at the skies above me into the endless blue, and then down into the little green world of lichens and moss forests that adorn the tiny crevices on the rockface. Everywhere from the macro to the micro, nature is awe inspiring. I wonder why, then, the human race is so hell bent on its destruction.
I know that there are many great conservation projects taking place around the world to protect land from development in order to safeguard the biodiversity and ecosystems that rely on it. But, sadly, protecting our environment is currently not high on the political agenda in England and we are seeing so many of our farm fields and green spaces around our villages and towns being transformed into large, unaffordable housing estates without any social and economic infrastructure to support them. It is feasible to think that one day, even places like Dartmoor will eventually be conquered by developers and wilderness like this will become harder to find.
Aldo Leopold was an American naturalist and philosopher who was born in the late 1800s. He is most famous for the essay he wrote called The Land Ethic published in a Sand County
Almanac in 1949. His land ethic enlarged the boundaries of ‘a community’ to include the soils, water, plants and animals that also lived there – thus changing the role of humans from being a conqueror of the land to being a member and citizen of an entire biotic community. This philosophy extends ethical consideration to ecological processes to preserve the integrity, stability and beauty of a place.
While working in Kamloops in Canada, I met a First Nation spokesman from the Secwepemc people. While discussing the history of his tribe and Western principles of land ownership, he said to me: “Look at this land, how can we ever own it? Surely the land owns us? It has grown us up, and was here before us, and will still be here long after we have gone. If anything, we are mere caretakers and
custodians of it as are all the animals, plants and life that share it.” I have always liked this philosophical position. Sat on my granite throne looking out at the weathered ridges and tors of the moor, I imagine the geological turmoil 280 million years ago when a volcanic eruption deep in the Earth’s core caused a giant dome or batholith of granite to intrude into the carboniferous shales and sandstones of the land that is now Devon and Cornwall. Time and weather have since shaped it. Yet even here, man has altered it, felling the forests that would have covered its peaks and valleys, making way for cattle and settlements. Sadly, I wonder if there is anywhere on these Isles of ours that are still true wilderness. This is my challenge for 2025.
n Dr Susie Curtin (email curtin. susanna@gmail.com)
Dr Susie Curtin has been visiting her special place on Dartmoor
New Year, new you? Choosing reflection over resolutions
by Danielle Goshawk
THERE’S no escaping the ‘new year, new you’ messaging, and it’s hard not to be drawn into it. Even if we’ve set and not followed through on previous resolutions, we can feel the pressure to try again in case it sticks this time – and when it doesn’t, we can feel a sense of failure, guilt and self-criticism which can become a cycle that makes it far more difficult to pick ourselves up and try again. Our resolutions often fail because they are too ambitious or unrealistic, about big sweeping changes rather than
small, incremental steps towards sustainable change.
What if we were to consider the New Year a point to pause and reflect, instead of a starting line? By reflection I mean bringing a sense of curiosity and compassion to our experiences to foster self-awareness, not judgement or critique for what we have or have not achieved.
my energy? What did I do that felt important to me and aligned with my values? What did I do that felt out of alignment?
These kinds of questions help us think not only about what we want to change, but why we want to change it, and that is an important motivator.
For example, if you realised that having too many commitments left you feeling drained, you might want to consider what feels nourishing and what feels depleting – then perhaps set an intention to sometimes say no to some of the more draining demands or say yes more often to the
nourishing ones.
Remember that it’s not only in January that we can ask ourselves these questions.
keep in touch with our intentions and develop selfcompassion.
Rather than focussing solely on our perceived failures or shortcomings we can also notice our learning and growth.
Regularly giving ourselves the space to recognise these things helps to make sure that our choices are still aligned with what is important to us. By valuing progress over perfection, self-awareness over self-criticism and sustainable change over fleeting resolutions we can stay more connected to what matters to us.
Questions such as: What did I enjoy last year? What drained
Ongoing reflective check-ins throughout the year will help us
n Danielle Goshawk is a counsellor working with adults and couples, based in Lytchett Matravers and online (www. acaciacounselling.net). She is also co-founder of Dorset Employee Wellness Support, which provides local businesses with counselling and wellness services – for more information, email DorsetEWS@proton.me.
Making Everyday Life Easier
Do I need a Stairlift? – If you have difficulty getting up and down stairs you are not alone. Buying a stairlift can be a liberating investment, restoring safety and freedom to people with mobility problems.
Why choose us? – Suttons Stairlifts offer a range of new or refurbished stairlifts for straight or curved stairs throughout Dorset, Wiltshire and South West. We aim to provide an ethical, reliable and prompt service to our customers and have worked hard to establish an affordable and dependable service to be proud of. Thanks to personal recommendations from satisfied customers referring us to their friends and relations Suttons Stairlifts is now a well-established company committed to providing expert advice with a no-pressure selling policy, guaranteed!
857 560 enquiries@nowaxear.co.uk www.thenowaxearcompany.co.uk
We also offer fast and efficient repairs as well as annual services to keep your stairlift running as smoothly as the day it was installed.
What happens next? – We will visit you to survey the staircase leaving the leaflets and prices so you can make the decision in your own time.
With our inclusive and comprehensive 12 or 24 month warranty you be assured of a first-class and personal service from Suttons Stairlifts.
Herb that makes a sweet treat taste of cardboard
by Fiona Chapman
HAPPY New Year! I wonder how many of us have made New Year resolutions and already broken them? Honestly, I should make a resolution to eat more chocolate because as soon as I set a rule for myself, I just have to break it. I am very contrary – something my husband would wholeheartedly agree with.
We do, however, have a very good reason for healthy eating and shaping up as our daughter is getting married this year and we must do some ‘shedding for the wedding!’.
A wonderful herb called Gymnema sylvestre is good for digestion and lowering or
processing lipids –fats – but is also excellent for sugar cravings. If you put a drop or two on your tongue whenever you crave something sweet, and then try to eat said ‘deliciousness’, it will taste of cardboard. Brilliant, if you have a sweet tooth!
Often, it is more about toning the body and feeling healthy than losing weight. If you feel good, you look good. It is incredibly important to do weight-bearing exercises to keep the bones strong. Staying fit, walking up a few hills as often as possible is good for the bottom – it stops it sagging down to the backs of the knees! Eating a healthy diet is
Items for sale
fundamental with lots of green leafy vegetables, something I always bang on about. Root vegetables at this time of year – sweet potatoes, celeriac, beetroot – provide energy and nutrients. Filtered water is vital and at least two litres a day. It is very easy in winter to forget to drink, as you do not feel as thirsty, but particularly if living in a centrally heated house it is really important.
Instagram has hundreds of apps that will help with getting that flat stomach or an exercise class is great – and you get out and meet a new bunch of people. Cutting out the alcohol
Gymnema sylvestre is good for diminishing sugar cravings
gives the liver and brain a toxicity break and will contribute to a good night’s sleep, which makes you feel energised and bright-eyed.
As soon as the nettles start appearing, make them into a nettle tea – the vitamins and nutrients feed the blood and, as I have said before, put any left-over tea on your hair as the last rinse to make it shine.
I hope I take my own advice and don’t do the opposite. I shall have to try and find a herb that cures being perverse! n Fiona Chapman is a naturopathic herbalist (email Pellyfiona@gmail.com).
OLD BOOKS BOUGHT. Will call by appointment entirely without obligation. Bristow & Garland 07392-602014
WATTBIKE ATOM EXERCISE BIKE - as new. £350. Tel: 01747-445051
Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
DARTINGTON VINTAGE SHIP’S decanter, heavyweight, original stopper, no chips/cracks. Hardly used. Photos. £50 ono 07774-680733
WHITE VENETIAN BLIND. FREE for collection. 114cm drop x 129cm wide, Dorchester 01305-608484
2 ADULT BIKES WITH PANNIERS, one in good condition other ridable. Buyer to take both. £40 ONO. 07538 363661
JANOME MULTI STITCH SEWING MACHINE. Recently serviced. £50 ono. Shillingstone. Tel: 07555-524290
ROSSIGNOL SKIS V5K 168cms, bindings, poles, carry bag, As new £50, Tel. 07534-524337
GENTS BIKE FOR SALE.
3 speed. hub brakes, good working order. 26 inch wheels. £50. Contact Paul on 01258 817021.
PANASONIC MICROWAVE OVEN. (model: NN-CT559W) £30.00 Tel: 07974-260579
6x6 WOODEN GREEN HOUSE. Good condition. Free to take. Tel: 07834-373321 (Sturminster Newton)
to place your advert is
Enford Farm Shop
Home
Warming soup for Veganuary
JANUARY
it comes Veganuary.
Anyone planning to take part this year should not forget it is important to compensate for the nutrients typically obtained from meat.
Watercresss can be help fill the gap, being rich in iron – and vitamin A, which makes iron more absorbable.
Winter is classic soup weather and this soup is a warming treat.
Watercress, Leek & Parsnip Soup (vegan)
Salt and pepper Croutons
Method
1 Bring a 1litre pot of water to a boil and add the parsnips, cook for 5-10 minutes until beginning to soften, then add the leeks.
Serves 4, prep time 10 mins, cook time 25mins
Ingredients
80g Watercress, roughly chopped
2 Leeks (approx. 300g), sliced 2 Parsnips (approx. 200g), peeled & sliced
2 Simmer until both leeks and parsnips are cooked, about 10 minutes. Take the pot off the heat, add the watercress and allow to wilt slightly, then strain the vegetables from the liquid keeping it to one side to add back in to the soup.
3 Using either a handheld blender or food processor, blitz the vegetables adding a little of the cooking water in between to thin the mixture out until you reach your desired consistency.
4 Serve with croutons or warm crusty bread.
Harsh realities facing country pub
NESTLED in the heart of one of the most picturesque corners of Wiltshire, The Forester in Donhead St Andrew is a place that has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
Surrounded by rivers, castles and beautiful countryside, this charming country pub and restaurant is not just a place to eat and drink – it’s a community hub.
But despite its stunning location and loyal customer base, the pub faces a challenge – its rural location means it’s often difficult for customers to find or reach.
And while those who make the effort to visit fall in love with its warm, welcoming atmosphere, the financial pressures of running a rural business have become almost too much to bear.
“We’re in love with this pub, and we’re in love with our
community,” said Debbie Lewis, of owner, Country Inns.
“But the financial pressures are real, and we can’t ignore them.
“The last Budget alone will cost us an extra £15,000 a year, and that doesn’t even include the price hikes we’ll face from our suppliers.
“It’s been a tough time for many small businesses, and we’re no exception.”
Despite the odds, The Forester is committed to staying open and offering the kind of experience that’s hard to find anywhere else.
The pub’s owners are also eager to hear from their loyal customers.
“We’re open to ideas! We want to hear what you think will help us bring even more life to this beautiful space,” said Debbie.
“After all, we’re here for you.”
FREE DELIVERY
Use code*: FREEDEL
New 5 mile radius from the shop, convering: Blandford, Child Okeford, Charlton Marshall, The Tarrants and more.
Delivery Hours: Monday - Saturday from 4.30pm
Order online at: www.longjohnsfishandchips.co.uk
54 East Street, Blandford, DT11 7DR
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
*Single use only. Valid until 31st March 2025.
The Forester in Donhead St Andrew
Motoring
Work starting on major junction
MAJOR safety improvement work will begin at the four-way Maumbury Cross junction in Dorchester later this month.
The work includes installation of signal-controlled pedestrian crossing points, widening and levelling of footways and upgrading existing equipment.
Cllr Jon Andrews, cabinet member for Place Services at Dorset Council, said: “The current junction layout, with its narrow footways, limited space to pass or wait to cross and only one controlled crossing point can make it a daunting
experience, especially for anyone with limited mobility or vision impairments.
“Full views of approaching vehicles can be difficult and the current layout means some people have to wait in the middle of the road to cross.
“The junction can also be particularly challenging during rush hours when commuting to and from work or school by foot, bike, or car.”
The work gets under way on Monday, January 13, and drivers are advised to allow for extra time at the junction, while it is carried out, particularly at
The current layout can be daunting, especially for anyone with limited mobility or vision impairments
peak hours.
Pedestrian access will be maintained with a safe route signposted.
Cllr Andrews added: “The traffic management is there to ensure the safety of drivers, pedestrians and our highways crews. Please expect some
delays and plan accordingly.
“It is a complex scheme to build, with four-way traffic movement and thousands of vehicles passing through daily, so I hope everyone can be patient and understanding.”
Drivers could pay price for a prank
A NEW survey has revealed a third of UK drivers wrongly believe there is no penalty for deliberately splashing a pedestrian while driving.
The research, from private number plate supplier
Regtransfers, has found that most UK drivers are not aware of the potential fine they could receive for deliberately splashing pedestrians while driving.
It might seem like a harmless
prank or practical joke, but if it is believed the motorist has deliberately driven into a puddle to splash a pedestrian walking on the pavement, they could receive a maximum fine of up to £5,000 and a potential three points on their licence.
The survey showed that a third of the UK’s drivers believe there is no fine for the act of splashing someone on purpose, while half of respondents believed the maximum fine to
be just £1,000.
Under section three of the Road Traffic Act 1988, splashing someone on purpose is considered an offence, as it is seen as driving ‘without reasonable consideration for other persons’.
In most cases, drivers will receive a fixed penalty notice of £100, but if this is not paid, the fine could increase to the £5,000 maximum if the case is taken to court.
OLD, INTERESTING & CLASSIC CARS wanted pre 1990s Any condition including unfinished projects Cash/Transfer. Please Phone Paul 07890 096907 STORAGE FOR CARAVANS, boats and cars at Enford Farm near Blandford. 01258 450050 / 07704 813025
2021 (71) Dacia Sandero Stepway 1.0TCe Comfort 5dr. New shape, 90bhp, petrol, manual gearbox, reverse camera, sat nav, park sensors, cruise, auto lights & wipers, road sign assist, hill holder, 25,300 miles............................................£10950
2014 (14) Ford Kuga 2.0TDCi Titanium X AWD 4x4 SUV 5dr. 163bhp, diesel, manual gearbox, 4 wheel drive, leather, heated seats, sat nav, parking sensors, auto park system, reverse camera, sunroof, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, road sign assist, hill holder, electric tailgate, cambelt replaced, 92,500 miles ..................£7450
2020 (69) Ford Tourneo Custom 2.0TDCi Titanium 320 L1 H1 Automatic 9 Seat Minibus 5dr. 130bhp, diesel, automatic gearbox, 8 seat plus driver, reversable seats for conference or forward facing, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, heated front seats, park sensors, cambelt replaced, 97,000 miles .£21500 + VAT = £25800
2020 (69) Ford Transit 2.0TDCi Trend 350 MWB MR L2 H2 11 Seat Minibus 5dr. 130bhp, diesel, manual gearbox, 10 seat plus driver, 2 front seats, 9 rear seats, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, heated front seats, hill holder, cambelt replaced, 90,200 miles ........................................£19500 + VAT = £23400
2013 (63) Honda Jazz 1.4i-VTEC ES Plus 5dr. 99bhp, petrol, manual gearbox, cruise control, flat folding rear seats, small car with very spacious interior, 75,500 miles .............................................................................. £5250
2016 (66) Mazda 3, 2.0 SE-L Nav Automatic 5dr. 120bhp, petrol, automatic gearbox, sat nav, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, road sign assist, heated seats, hill holder, 75,900 miles ..................................................£8450
2018 (68) Renault Clio 0.9TCe GT-Line 5dr. 90bhp, petrol, manual gearbox, sat nav, parking sensors, cruise control, hill holder, auto lights & wipers, road sign assist, 62,900 miles ...................................................................................................£7250
2016 (66) Renault Captur 1.5DCi Dynamique S Nav SUV 5dr. 90bhp, diesel, manual gearbox, Free road tax, upto 78mpg, sat nav, parking sensors, cruise control, road sign assist, auto lights & wipers, hill holder, cambelt replaced, 48,500 miles ...................£7650
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
2019 (68) Skoda Fabia 1.0TSi SE Automatic 5dr. 109bhp, petrol, automatic gearbox, only 12,500 miles, parking sensors, cruise control, hill holder, collision detection, 1 owner & only 12,500 miles .........................................................£11750
2019 (19) Toyota Yaris 1.5VVTi Icon Tech 5dr. 111bhp, petrol, manual gearbox, only 8,500 miles, sat nav, reverse camera, parking sensors, cruise control, hill holder, auto lights & wipers, main beam assist, collision detection, road sign assist, 8,500 miles .............................................................................................................£11750
2018 (67) Vauxhall Mokka X 1.4T Design Nav SUV 5dr. 140bhp, petrol, manual gearbox, high seating, sat nav, parking sensors, cruise control, hill holder, auto lights & wipers, 31,100 miles ....................................................................................£9650
2016 (66) Vauxhall Mokka 1.6CDTi SE 4x4 SUV 5dr. 136bhp, diesel, manual gearbox, 4x4, high seating, leather, heated seats & steering wheel, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, park sensors, hill holder, 65,500 miles ..........................£7250
2014 (14) Volkswagen Polo 1.2 Match Edition 5dr. 70bhp, petrol, manual gearbox, parking sensors, hill holder, multi media, cruise control, only 56,500 miles ............................................................................. Available soon £6450
Pets
Why throwing sticks for your dog isn’t a good idea
by Lynn Broom Longmead Veterinary Practice
DOGS love to chase and throwing a stick may seem like a good idea because they are freely available and readily replaceable, but they can cause significant injuries.
Minor injuries can involve splinters and gum injuries and pieces of stick can wedge
5*
themselves between the teeth causing pain and infections. Significant injuries can occur when the dog runs onto the stick, typically if it sticks into the ground or the dog mistimes its catch, and this can cause painful and even lifethreatening injuries. Because a stick has a fairly pointy end and the dog often runs on to it at speed, the stick can penetrate
Owners: Elaine & Ed Tilley
Lattiford, Wincanton, BA9 8AF | 01963 32104 Email: merrymeet.kennels@btinternet.com Website: www.merrymeetkennels.co.uk
Let us pamper your pet in our luxurious kennels and cattery. All accommodation has central heating and double glazing to keep our guests comfortable. Our dogs are exercised in secure gardens. Open for boarding 7 days per week from 09.00am. See website for details of opening times.
DOGGIE DAY CARE FROM 07.30
WE ALSO STOCK ARDEN GRANGE, AUTARKY, HARRINGTONS, BAKERS AND SKINNERS.
the tongue, throat, oesophagus or trachea. Even minor injuries are very painful, and dogs will often be very subdued, drool – which may be blood-tinged –and be reluctant to eat.
Pieces of stick often break off and, even if the wound caused is identified and flushed out, these can track through the tissues of the mouth and throat and cause recurrent abscesses or swellings on the skin of the face or neck weeks, months or even years later.
threatening if severe.
Sticks can also cause injuries outside the mouth. Dogs impaling their chest can cause acutely fatal injuries and even survivable injuries may need extensive surgery to repair the damage. Eye injuries are also seen and these can cause permanent sight loss.
Wounds are often not visible in the conscious dog and an anaesthetic is frequently required to identify the injuries present which may be under the tongue or further back into the throat. Injuries to the oesophagus can cause ongoing problems with swallowing and tracheal injuries can lead to pneumothorax – air leaking out – or haemothorax – blood leaking out – which are life
I used to see stick injuries quite regularly but as people became more aware of the risks, fewer people threw sticks for their dogs, but they do still occur. I’ve even seen one dog present on a second occasion with a stick injury from stick throwing. If your dog enjoys chasing, carry a ball. Even ball throwing should only be carried out in moderation as injuries from rapid acceleration, sudden deceleration and twisting can cause acute injuries such as cruciate ruptures or chronic damage leading to arthritis later on.
It is great to entertain your dog on a walk and to tire them out but try to choose an activity that is less likely to cause an injury and an emergency visit to the out of hours vet!
Wyke range of dog and cat food, treats, vegetarian, grain free, gluten free, sugar
Paleo Ridge and Natures Menu frozen dog Wild bird food, cage and aviary COMPULSORY MICROCHIPPING for Cats, Dogs, Puppies & Kittens 2024book yours now - call or pop in store Check- a-chip service is free food. Natural treats, toys, collars leads and harnesses. Veterinary bedding, shampoo, grooming and towels Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm & Saturday 10am to 1pm. Visit our store for January offers
MID DORSET CATS PROTECTION Cats looking for new homes
,
Kit and Ember, four and a half months, playful and cuddly pair looking for a home of their own
n For details, please call our helpline on 01258 858644 or visit our website www.cats.org. uk/middorset
Marie & Sparkerly, three-yearold sisters.
Sweet loving girls looking for a new home together
Dog walking area plans approved
DOG owners in Gillingham will have a new secure place to walk their four-legged friends following the approval of plans.
Plans to change use of part of an agricultural field on land at the outskirts of the town at Field Lane, near North Dorset Rugby Club, have been approved by Dorset Council.
The plans include the construction of a 2.1 metre high fence as well as a new vehicle access and car parking area with six spaces.
would be via road or on foot.”
Assetsphere said the proposals fill a void, as the nearest secure dog walking field to Gillingham is found at Todber – 7.5 miles from Gillingham.
It added: “The applicants have seen themselves that there is a need to provide a facility within the town, from a significant increase in dog walkers since 2019, utilising the footpaths on their land.”
LOST CAT S: If your cat has gone missing, Cats Protection offers practical steps to help bring them home safely. Start by searching your local area thoroughly, checking sheds, garages, and outbuildings where they might be hiding. Create posters and share them in your neighbourhood and online communities. Inform local vets and animal rescues in case someone has found your cat. Ensure your cat’s microchip details are up to date, as this can be a vital tool for identification. For a detailed guide and additional advice visit the Cats Protection website or call us on 01258 858644.
For more details, please call our helpline 01258 858644 or visit our website: cats.org.uk/blandford (Formerly Blandford & Sturminster)
Secure dog walking fields have become more common over the years as they serve as a safe space for owners to train dogs or exercise dogs that may be reactive.
The secure field would measure just under a hectare.
Planning consultancy firm AssetSphere, on behalf of the applicant, said: “The proposal provides a secure area for individuals to exercise their dogs off-lead.
“Typically, the area would be rented by individuals on 30 minutes to one-hour time slots.
“The field is situated on the edge of the town of Gillingham. Access to the field
Gillingham Town Council objected to the plans when they were discussed at a meeting in August.
Concerns were raised over the limited information given regarding the removal of dog waste and the expected number of dogs using the site at any one time, “which could create a possible noise nuisance.”
As part of the decision notice, Dorset Council said the development is only permitted providing the field is not used for dog walking outside of 7am to 10pm on Mondays and Sundays, and before the field is first used, details of the storage and removal of dog waste should be submitted to the council.
Companions at Peace
Pet Cremation
Independent family run business offering a very personal, caring pet cremation service to bereaved pet owners.
Collection Service Farewell Room Out of Hours Service provided Located in a rural countryside setting on the Somerset Dorset border
Contact us on: 07900 654 440 www.companionsatpeace.co.uk
Dusty
11 years, delightful boy looking for a retirement home
Mel and Sue, six years, looking for a home together, sweet sensitive pair who are friendly, enjoy a fuss and company
PUBLIC NOTICE
KILMINGTON PARISH COUNCIL is tendering for a contractor to cut their Playing Field grass from 01.04.2025 for three years. Please contact parishclerk@kilmingtonwiltshire.org for full details
GOODS VEHICLE OPERATOR’S LICENCE
EVENTS CREW LTD. of Dipper Works, Henstridge Airfield, The Marsh, Henstridge Somerset BA8 0TN is applying to change an existing licence as follows. To keep an extra 5 goods vehicles and 20 trailers at the operating centre at Dipper Works, Henstridge Airfield, The Marsh, Henstridge, Somerset BA8 0TN.
Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Quarry House, Quarry Hill, Leeds, LS2 7UE stating their reasons within 21 days of this notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A Guide to Making Representations is available from the Traffic Commissioner’s Office.
DEATHS
PAMELA MARTIN
Passed away peacefully on 9th December 2024 at Salisbury District Hospital, aged 67. Much loved wife of the late Alan Martin and beloved mother, daughter, sister and grandma. Funeral Service at St James’ Church, Shaftesbury on Wednesday 8th January 2025 at 2pm. Family flowers only, please. Donations, if desired, for Cancer Research UK may be made online by visiting www.grassbyclose-funeral.co.uk or cheques made payable to the charity sent c/o Grassby & Close Funeral Service, 4 Innes Court, Sturminster Newton, DT10 1BB.
CUSSON Vera
Of Charlton Marshall
Passed away peacefully at Millbrook Residential Care Home, on 7th December 2024 aged 102 years. A dearly loved Mum, she will be deeply missed by family and friends. Funeral service will take place at Poole Crematorium on Friday 3rd January at 2pm. No Flowers please. Enquiries c/o Colin J Close Funeral Service, Peel Close, Salisbury Road, Blandford DT11 7JU. Tel: 01258 453133
MAISIE MAUREEN WAREHAM
On 27th November 2024, peacefully in the Cedars Nursing Home aged 92 years. Of Shaftesbury. Private funeral service has taken place. Donations for the British Heart Foundation in memory of Maisie 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
VINEY PAMELA ELIZABETH (Pam)
Aged 83 years of Milborne Port. On 18th December 2024, peacefully at La Fontana Nursing Home, Martock. Pam will be sadly missed by her family and friends. Funeral Service at Yeovil Cremetorium on Thursday 9th January at 10.40am. Family flowers only please. Donations in memory of Pam are being invited for Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance, C/o Harold F Miles, Funeral Director, South Cadbury, BA22 7ES. Tel: 01963-440367
Diana McGuinness
aged 84 died on 19th November at York House, Swanage. Her memorial mass to celebrate her life has taken place on Friday 20th December at Holy Trinity Church in Dorchester. The service was very well attended by family, friends and parishioners. She was an active member of the Holy Trinity Church for 46 years and was much loved by all who came into her life. A wonderful mother and a wonderful teacher. We will miss her
SCHIFFER Annabella
on 6th December, 2024, aged 63. Much missed sister of Olivia and cousin to the many members of the wider Tennent family. Loved and admired for her great warmth and zest for life, in spite of what life threw at her. Memorial service at midday on 10th January 2025 at Castle Cary Methodist Church, 2 Upper High Street, Castle Cary BA7 7AT. Donations, if desired, to Open Doors With Brother Andrew of Po Box 6, Witney, OX29 6WG or Castle Cary Methodist Church (as above) or The Smile Train UK of York House, Wetherby Road, York, YO26 7NH.
DEATHS
Archie Brew
Passed away peacefully on 16th December 2024 in his home, surrounded by his loving family. Much loved by his family and friends, He will be missed by all who knew him. The funeral Service will take place on Tuesday 14th January at Yeovil crematorium at 12.40pm. Family Flowers only, Donations are welcome in memory of Archie to “Hope for tomorrow” and can be placed in the donation box on the day. For further enquiries, please contact; Bracher Brothers Funeral Directors, Newell, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 4EZ Tel: 01935 813479
STONE MASONS
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
•
•
•
•
•
•
• Unattended funerals starting from £995
• Tailored and unique Attended Funerals
• Prepaid funeral plans also available
Newbury, Gillingham
SP8 4QL Tel: 01747 822494
Newbury, Gillingham SP8 4QL Tel: 01747 822494
Newell, Sherborne DT9 4EZ Tel: 01935 813479
Newell, Sherborne DT9 4EZ Tel: 01935 813479
J Wakely Independent Family Funeral Directors
J Wakely& Sons Independent Family Funeral Directors
Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse
Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse
Choice of Hearses available including
Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310 – 24 Hour Service –
Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817
Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817 Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310
plans available Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817 Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310 – 24 Hour Service –
Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817
Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310 – 24 Hour Service –
Sherborne Tel: 01935 Wincanton Tel: 01963 – 24 Hour Service
Pre-payment plans available
Pre-payment plans
Please contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.
Pre-payment plans available
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.
Please contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance. Pre-payment plans available
Please contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.
Runners and riders in Dorset Tourism Awards
THE finalists have been announced for this year’s Dorset Tourism Awards following five months of judging.
They will find out if they have won gold, silver or bronze awards at a ceremony at Marsham Court Hotel in Bournemouth next month.
A further two special awards will also be announced and 10 will be rewarded with Commended status.
The annual competition is now in its 12th year, with changes every year to categories and criteria.
This year’s awards see a return of the International Tourism category and a stronger focus on sustainability and accessibility.
Gold winners in some categories will be nominated to represent Dorset in the 2024/25 national VisitEngland Awards.
Awards organiser Robin Barker, of Services for Tourism, said: “Celebrating excellence is so important – to the winners themselves, to the staff who work there and to everyone in industry looking to the future.
“It is also important for Dorset in showcasing the county on the national and international stage. Congratulations to everyone involved.”
Award categories cover everything from dog friendly, new tourism business, and accessible and inclusive tourism to restaurants, glamping, hotels and pubs.
A Winner of Winners title, an Unsung Hero award and a special Outstanding Contribution award will also be presented on awards night, Thursday, February 6.
Finalists and commended (in alphabetical order).
n Accessible and Inclusive
Tourism award sponsored by Bournemouth University Business School. Finalists: Brownsea Island – National Trust, Poole; Marsham Court Hotel, Bournemouth; Studland Bay, National Trust, Studland.
n B&B and Guesthouse of the Year sponsored by Goadsby. Finalists: Channel View Guesthouse, Weymouth; The Gresham Guest House, Weymouth.
n Business Events Venue of the Year sponsored by sponsored by Saffery. Finalists: Lighthouse, Poole; Marsham Court Hotel, Bournemouth; Merley House Events, Wimborne. Commended: Dorset Museum & Art Gallery, Dorchester. n Café/Tearoom of the Year sponsored by Clipper. Finalists: Compton Acres Café Tearooms, Poole; Garden Gate Tea Room, Wareham; The Upwey Wishing Well Tearoom and Water Gardens, Weymouth.
Wareham.
n Ethical, Responsible & Sustainable Tourism Award, sponsored by Voltshare. Finalists: Careys Secret Garden, Wareham; West Dorset Leisure Holidays Highlands End, Bridport. Commended: Sandford Holiday Park Parkdean Resorts, Poole.
n Experience of the Year, sponsored by Les Enfants Terribles. Finalists: Osprey Cruises - Birds of Poole Harbour, Wareham; Alpaca Trekking Experience –Longthorns Farm, Wareham; Hidden Dorset Half Day - Sea Kayak Dorset, Portland; Yoga Retreats, Mellulah Therapy & Yoga Retreats, Blandford.
n Glamping Business of the Year sponsored by Anytime Booking. Finalists: Dorset Forest Garden Glamping, Beaminster; Longthorns Farm, Wareham; Loose Reins Dorset, Blandford Forum.
n Holiday Park of the Year sponsored by Tozers. Finalists: To be announced at the awards event.
n International Tourism Award, sponsored by Dorset LEP. Finalists: To be announced at the Awards event.
Bournemouth. To be announced at the Awards event.
n Pub of the Year, sponsored by Black Cow Vodka. Finalists: The Acorn Inn, Dorchester; The Langton Arms, Blandford Forum.
n Restaurant of the Year, sponsored by Winederful. Finalists: Al Molo, Dorchester; St Tropez Lounge, Poole; The Jetty, Christchurch; Upper Deck Restaurant, Christchurch.
n Self-catering Accommodation of the Year, sponsored by Quality in Tourism. Finalists: Greenwood Grange, Dorchester; Manor Farm Barns Dorset, Melbury Abbas; 2 Coastguards Cottage, Wareham.
n Small Hotel of the Year sponsored by Hospitality Assured. Finalists: To be announced at the Awards event.
n Small Visitor Attraction of the Year, sponsored by AGI. Finalists: Careys Secret Garden, Wareham; Highcliffe Castle, Highcliffe; Museum of East Dorset, Wimborne; Sculpture by the Lakes, Pallington. Commended: West Bay Discovery Centre, Bridport.
n Camping & Caravanning Park of the Year sponsored by Holidaymaker App. Finalists: Back of Beyond Touring, Camping & Glamping Park, St Leonards; Coppet Hill Partners, Bridport; Monkton Wyld Holiday Park, Bridport; South Lytchett Manor Caravan and Camping Park, Lytchett Minster.
n Casual Dining Award, sponsored by Dorset Food & Drink. Finalists: Poco Pizza, Lyme Regis; Sculpture by the Lakes, Pallington.
n Dog Friendly Business of the Year, sponsored by Polygon Pets. Finalists: Back of Beyond Touring, Camping & Glamping Park, St Leonards; Sculpture by the Lakes, Pallington. Commended: Lulworth Castle & Park,
n Large Hotel of the Year sponsored by Booking.com. Finalists: Christchurch Harbour Hotel, Christchurch; Moonfleet Manor Hotel, Weymouth. Commended: Holiday Inn, Bournemouth; RNLI College, Poole.
n Large Visitor Attraction of the Year sponsored by Resort Dorset. Finalists: Brownsea Island – National Trust, Poole; Dorset Museum & Art Gallery, Dorchester; Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park, Poole; Moors Valley Country Park and Forest, Ashley Heath. Commended: Nothe Fort (operated by Weymouth Civic Society), Weymouth; RussellCotes Art Gallery and Museum, Bournemouth.
n Outstanding contribution to Dorset Tourism, sponsored by NFU Mutual
n Tourism Event/Festival of the Year, sponsored by Tomorrows Travel. Finalists: Arts by the Sea 2023, Bournemouth; Bournemouth Writing Festival 2024, Bournemouth; Inside Out Dorset 2023, Dorchester; Swanage Regatta & Carnival 2024, Swanage. Commended: Rang Barse: Colours over Corfe Castle 2024, Wareham.
n Unsung hero Award, sponsored by VisitDorset. Finalists: Jenny Ashley, Monkton Wyld Holiday Park, Bridport; Charlie Brazier, Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park, Poole.
n Wedding Venue of the Year, sponsored by The Little House Dorset. Finalists: Abbots Court, Blandford Forum; Highcliffe Castle, Highcliffe; Lulworth Castle & Park, Wareham. Commended: Merley House Events, Wimborne.
n Winner of Winners sponsored by Dorset LEP. To be announced at the awards event.
Recruitment
EGG PACKERS WANTED. 7:30am until 2pm daily. Call Paul on 07967388895. Landshire Lane, Henstridge.
ASSIST TO EXECUTIVE PA/PROPERTY MANAGER. Challenging and interesting position with variety of tasks. Keyboard, IT and Computer skills essential. Design/editing skills advantageous. Near Sherborne. For Job Description please email holly@michaelbromfield.com
HR Advisor
WAREHOUSE FULFILLMENT
part-time
HR Advisor part-time
full-time
PART TIME ACCOUNTANT required for MB Crocker Ltd Negotiable/flexible hours for end of month protocols Office Based in Marnhull. Xero software experience preferable. Please email cv to mail@mbcrocker.co.uk.uk Or call Paul for an informal chat on 07967388895
Niwaki Ltd
Niwaki Ltd
15 Chaldicott Barns, Semley, SP7 9AW United Kingdom
15 Chaldicott Barns, Semley, SP7 9AW United Kingdom
+44 (0)1747 445 059
+44 (0)1747 445 059
www.niwaki.com
www.niwaki.com
We’re on the look out for a part-time HR advisor to provide HR support to our Niwaki team across the UK. Reporting to the COO, the role will be based at our Dorset HQ, and will oversee recruitment, HR documentation and processes, and provide support across the team.
We’re on the look out for a part-time HR advisor to provide HR support to our Niwaki team across the UK. Reporting to the COO, the role will be based at our Dorset HQ, and will oversee recruitment, HR documentation and processes, and provide support across the team.
We have an opportunity at Niwaki to join our Warehouse Team. This full-time position involves order fulfilment and warehouse duties, including stock management, unloading deliveries, and other general duties. The role may also include customer service, and opportunities to help out at shows, such as RHS Chelsea, open days etc.
You will be Level 3 CIPD qualified (at least) with great communication skills and a passion for working with people.
CARER AVAILABLE. Reliable, kind, experienced. Tisbury and surrounding areas. Tel 07557-001105
SEN Learning Support Assistant –Shaftesbury
A team player, with good attention to detail, you will be positive, helpful, tidy and a good communicator. This is an active role, based at our HQ at Semley. Permanent contract, full-time hours (Mon to Fri), £21 - 24K. We encourage internal promotion to other areas of the business. Benefits: pension, discount, medical insurance, parking.
You will be Level 3 CIPD qualified (at least) with great communication skills and a passion for working with people.
If this sounds like you, please send your CV to careers@niwaki.com
If this sounds like you, please send your CV to careers@niwaki.com
To apply, email careers@niwaki.com and tell us more about your prior experience.
Port Regis is a delightful preparatory school, for day and boarding children aged 2-13, in Shaftesbury, Dorset.
We are seeking to recruit to the following roles:
CLERK TO GOVERNORS FINANCE GOVERNOR HEAD OF GYMNASTICS
NURSEY
TEACHER
KITCHEN PORTER
SWIMMING TEACHER
Applications are invited from candidates who are forward-thinking and big-hearted, 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.
The role of Finance Governor is an unpaid position on the non-executive Board of Governors. The successful candidate would be joining an already strong team of Governors within the School’s Finance Committee and be required to attend two Governor meetings per term (Finance and the full Governing Body).
For full details of the roles and application procedure, please visit our website - portregis.com/vacancies
Early applications encouraged
Port Regis (Charity No: 306218) is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful applicants will be required to undertake an Enhanced DBS and safer recruitment vetting checks.
(35 hrs per week, term time only, actual salary £22,169 to £24,005 per annum)
We would like to hear from you if you have a passion for supporting pupils with SEMH (social, emotional, and mental health) difficulties and those with a range of neurodiverse conditions including autism. Ideally you will have experience of working as a Teaching Assistant or Learning Support Assistant with children who have additional complex needs. We will consider Teaching Assistants from mainstream schools looking to further their career within Special Education and those with a passion for helping children and young people overcome barriers to learning.
Our staff benefits include Enhanced Pension Scheme (10% employer’s contribution), use of gym and pool (set times), Death in Service and Healthcare Plan. Call 01747 449 858 to request a full job description and application form or visit our website to apply online: https://coombehouseschool.org.uk/about/ recruitment/
Closing date for applications: Tuesday 7th January 2025. (We may commence interviews prior to the closing date, so please don’t delay in making an application.)
We are committed to safeguarding and expect everyone who works in our school (and visitors to our school) to share this commitment. We take all safeguarding and welfare concerns seriously and encourage our pupils to talk to us about any worries they may have. We will always act in the best interests of the child. The successful applicant must be willing to undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and an enhanced DBS.
Sherborne Schools Group are seeking to recruit a temporary
PAYROLL ASSISTANT
6 Month Fixed Term Contract
To support with the administration and processing of the payroll
37.5 hours per week; hours of work are likely to be 9.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday
For a full job description and application details please visit our website
www.sherborne.org/about-sherborne/job-vacancies
Closing date: 9.30 am on Wednesday 15 January 2025 Early applications encouraged
Sherborne School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants for this post must be willing to undergo child protection screening, including reference checks with previous employers and a criminal record check with the Disclosure & Barring Service.
Field & Stream
Green belt, housing and the water companies…
“Don't it always seem to go That you don't know what you got 'til it's gone
They paved paradise and put up a parking lot”
Joni Mitchell – Big Yellow Taxi by AJ
Selby
OUR countryside is a wonderful place to go for a walk, watch wildlife, take in a view or just breathe in fresh air. I like to write about my experiences both past and present in exploring, watching and learning on my rambles across the broad acres of this green and present land. Sometimes, however, a story appears about the damage being done to our countryside by people who, frankly, give the impression that they care not one jot. One news story has emerged at the end of 2024 and another is ongoing, but both are inextricably linked. The first, and the one that has outraged many people, is the plan by Angela Rayner to build some of the Government’s 1.5 million target houses on green belt and her promise to overturn any objections.
The concept of green belt was initially developed for London in 1938 as a precursor to the 1947 Town and Country Planning Act, which enabled local authorities to designate an area close to a town or city to restrict urban sprawl, maintain
natural heritage and prevent loss of farmland. Some 12.4% of land in England is green belt and protects not only agricultural land but also rivers, forests, wetlands and even coastal margins.
Our population continues to grow at an alarming rate and housing is, of course, needed, but is population growth something that can be addressed? If we build, then every effort needs to be made to use brownfield sites and look at options for empty properties over shops and businesses. Once farmland is built over, it is lost forever.
My second concern is linked to the first. How are we ever going to deal with all the water and sewage from an extra 1.5 million homes? All our water companies are behaving in an appalling manner towards the environment and the customer. Pleas for a big increase in bills are hard to swallow when their behaviour since privatisation in 1991 has been nothing short of scandalous.
The Financial Times has investigated the water companies and in 32 years to 2023 they paid out a huge £78 billion in shareholder dividends. They invested £190 billion in infrastructure in the same period but managed to chalk up £64 billion in debt, despite all
Once farmland is built over, it is lost forever, says AJ Selby
existing debts being wiped at privatisation.
Pollution figures are also shocking with companies paying out an average of £377 dividends for each hour they polluted. In 2022/23 shareholders were paid more than £1.35 billion in dividends and they simultaneously released sewage for over 3.5 million hours in the same period. They have now applied for a 36% increase in customer bills on average over the next five years.
But David Hall, visiting professor at the Public Services International Research Unit at the University of Greenwich, claims that water companies have invested ‘less than nothing of their own money’ and are ‘treating their customers like a cash cow’. “They put the prices up because they can and they get more money out of the customers, and then they pass it on to the shareholders because the business they are in is providing a good return to their shareholders. That’s why the companies do what they do, and we shouldn’t expect anything different.”
From the loss of clean wildlife habitats and its inhabitants to dangers for river and sea swimmers, the pollution continues at an alarming rate irrespective of rainfall, and
there is no sign of it slowing down. How are we ever going to reconcile more houses and more pollution without addressing this huge problem?
Re-nationalise? Possibly, but the Government seems to have a minus amount of money at present –the Government says it will cost £100 billion, Moody’s says it will be £14.5 billion. Stop directors’ bonuses and prosecute harder? That may make a dent in the problem and make the water companies sit up and take notice. I don’t have a solution because it isn’t a quick fix but surely we can’t carry on like this.
Exhale! And finish on a lighter note. January. The deadest month and often the coldest. However, get out and about and there is lots to see from birds to mammals to mosses and lichens. I love those halcyon days when the air is still with some cloud cover and the senses are heightened precisely because there is so little to view. Patience rewards the watcher and many birds are easier to spot in the leafless trees and hedgerows.
My favourite bird, the long-tailed tit, can often be seen in large groups working their way down a hedge-line paying the observer no heed. The reduced daylight hours mean that every second counts for finding food and birds are preoccupied in this task. At the turn of the year the world seems dead but by the end of the month there will be signs, almost imperceptible signs, that the countryside is changing, along with a few minutes of extra daylight each day. If you are new to nature watching, now is the time to follow the start of the slow but inevitable run towards spring. Take a photo at the same spot every month and see the changes. Make a note of the first appearance of flowers and migrant birds and your knowledge and enjoyment will be wonderfully enhanced.
The
by Tria Stebbing
AS another year comes to an end, it is time to grab a shot of
that sloe gin and reflect on the good, the bad and the ugly.
The beginning of the year
was largely spent complaining about the mud, the rain and the miserable conditions. Winter
was relentless – we were unable to drive across the field to pick up hay bales for the fold and ended up carrying them. Having baled these beauties the previous summer, we congratulated ourselves then on how firm and tight they were, which made them so heavy. The funniest moment was when I was so bogged down in the mud I was unable to move my welly boot, but couldn’t put the hay bale down to free my foot. Laughing uncontrollably was not helpful.
We went through two TB tests with the Highland cows. Their personalities have cemented themselves into our everyday lives. Sebastian, the plodder, happy to just go with the flow, as long as there is an apple in the equation. Belle very food driven, and now in calf, so has the excuse to be stuffing her face all of the time – and she does. Then the wildcard, Babybel, who this year has emerged as completely barmy – he likes zooming around the field trying his best to wind up the other two. It has been fascinating to watch Babybel grow his horns, from nothing in January to a lethal pair in December.
The sheep flock has grown
Sebastian enjoys a scratch on the barbed wire
with the addition of the Dutch Spotted and the new Zwartbles girls. King’s offspring were shown in agricultural shows around the area by Harry and Eddie and picked up some prizes along the way – well done boys! Humphrey, meanwhile, has enjoyed a winter partying in the paddock with new ladies, doing his bit to support the Zwartbles population in 2025. Having been in with ours, too, it will be fascinating to see just how many new lives he is responsible for this spring. Most of the flock are now expecting and we will be lambing from April onwards.
The weather, as always, has determined the paths taken this year. We baled late, later than we would have liked, as once again the weather would not settle and give us consecutive dry days. Laying hedges has only just started again, as there is nothing therapeutic about sitting in the rain clutching a billhook. Opportunities present themselves at the most unexpected times and the focus
needs to be constantly looking and planning forward. Plans can fall apart, too. We had been trying to repair the area in front of the barn. The cows had broken the ground up and where it had got so muddy last winter it was only just coming back to being useable. Last weekend, while playing ‘tractor chess’, the small blue tractor got stuck and sank, then had to be towed out with the big four-wheel drive. The result was not pretty on the eye, and we will start trying to repair that same piece of ground yet again. These things happen, and laughter fixes most situations, that and a few choice words.
2025 should bring us our first Highland calf, lots of lambs, more hay and more surprises. Blue tongue has now been detected in the area, an anxious time for all keepers of animals. Carried by a certain species of biting midges, it has reached as far as Blandford now and is something I am sure we will be hearing a lot more about this year.
HEDGE LAYING, Hedge and woodland planting, coppicing. Experienced crew available call 07929-995747
FLAIL HEDGE TRIMMING, reasonable rates. Tel: 07831-523694
CONCRETE GROOVING SERVICE. Cowco Southern. Call Ted: 07970-965040
WRACKLEFORD FARMS: PART-TIME STOCKMAN required for 100-head beef enterprise taking reared calves to stores. Experience essential in livestock purchasing, rearing and welfare. Some general farm work and support to arable enterprise. 3-bedroom house in lieu of salary. Applications to wracklefordfarms@gmail.com
SHIPPING CONTAINERS FOR SALE
Tel: 01258 472288 / Mob: 07977 936109
New and second hand containers - blue/green - all with box locks
QUALITY ORGANIC MEADOW HAY. £5. 01258-472182
We provide a friendly, local service at competitive prices. Based at Redlynch near Bruton, we supply Car, Commercial, Agricultural, Plant & 4x4 tyres and offer a 24hr breakdown service. We won’t be beaten on price. Call us on 01749 813957 or 07971 012628 or find us at www.southwesttyreservices.co.uk
Suitable for horses Haylage also available 07714289400 QUALITY HAYLAGE, hay . All June made. 3ft, 4ft and 6ft bales. Collect or delivered. Call Mark 07860 759996 or 01300 345293. www.henleyhaylage.co.uk
Farming
Farmers’ union keeps up pressure on tax proposals
THE NFU, in collaboration with farming unions NFU Cymru, NFU Scotland and the Ulster Farmers’ Union, stepped up its #StopTheFamilyFarmTax campaign with a national display of solidarity – Big Banner Day.
Roadside and gate banners were displayed across the country to amplify the message that proposed changes to Inheritance Tax threaten the future of family farms.
The banners, designed to be highly visible in key political constituencies, aimed to keep public attention and build political pressure on the impact the changes could have on
farming families and rural communities.
To support the campaign, car stickers were also available, allowing supporters to spread awareness wherever they travel and reinforce the call for action among the wider public.
NFU president, Tom Bradshaw, said: “The Big Banner Day is a powerful visual reminder to the Government that our fight to protect family farms is far from over.
“These tax changes are unjust, based on flawed data and risk destroying the very backbone of British agriculture.
“Family farms have been at
the heart of our rural communities for generations, producing high-quality food, supporting local communities and maintaining the beautiful landscapes we all value.
“The proposed changes threaten not just individual farming families, but the future of the heritage and traditions of an entire way of life.
“Only a combination of public support and political pressure will lead to a change in this damaging policy.
“The NFU is in a unique position to apply that pressure, bringing together stakeholders from across the country, coordinating efforts across all the home nations and leading a campaign to highlight the importance of protecting British family farms.
“We owe it to our farming families and to future generations to ensure these damaging proposals don’t undermine the future of food production.”
In 2024 we sold over 4,000 acres across 7 counties, with a total value of over £60m. We currently have over 2,000 farm and land buyers registered.
Our team are the best in their field at selling Farms, Estates, Land and Rural Property.
For a free market appraisal for sale purposes in 2025, please contact one of our specialist farm agents.
PPROPERTY AUCTIONS FRIDAY 25 OCTOBER 2024 & FRIDAY 15 NOVEMBER 2024
AT THE DIGBY CHURCH MEMORIAL HALL, SHERBORNE AT 2:00PM AND VIA LIVESTREAM
Symonds & Sampson’s Agricultural Auctions department has
had an
outstanding 2024, holding over 30 onsite sales across six counties
Fontmell Magna
Shroton
Guide £800,000
An historic Grade II listed detached house, thought to date from the 1500s with later additions up to the 18th century, set in wonderful gardens in the heart of the village. Freehold.
Guide £435,000
This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage has been fully desirable
This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage has been fully updated but retains great charm. It is situated in the heart of this most desirable village. CTB D. Freehold.
Amongst the highlights was a combined dispersal sale near Sparsholt in Hampshire, where machinery and equipment from two farms were sold in one day. Over 800 people attended the sale in person, alongside over 500 online bidders. Trade was strong for a high-quality entry, including the first John Deere X9 combine to be sold by auction in Europe since the model was released in 2021, selling for £233,000.
Batcombe, Dorchester
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Guides £40,000 to £115,000
20.70 acres (12.01 ha) tucked away in a quiet rural position in 3 lots.
Lot A – 15.02 ac arable capable pasture land with a gentle south facing slope£115,000
Lot B - 3.57 ac pasture and woodland including an old brick pumphouse - £40,000
Lot C – 11.11 ac pasture and strip of woodland with stream frontage - £90,000
Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244
The most unusual sale was a collection of Romany caravans, pony traps, carriages, and an array of collectables that drew a crowd to Springdale Farm in Devon, while the surprise result of the year was a remarkable £11,0000 achieved for a 1991 Land Rover Defender, sold at an evening sale near Gillingham in the summer.
Chilcompton Guide £195,000
Swainsford, Mere
Online auctions take place throughout the year and are the ideal place to sell anything from an individual lot to a partial or even full dispersal without leaving the premises.
Hurcott Guide £200,000
Nr Sturminster Newton Guide Price £1,100,000
Nr Sturminster Newton Guide Price £1,100,000
A partially built 5 bedroom detached house, with double garage and gardens. PP was granted under application reference 2022/1683/FUL. Freehold.
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
This year, we have sold an unprecedented acreage of standing straw, around 12,000, and the largest in the UK by some margin. Our on-farm fodder sales continue to be supported and prove to be the most effective way to sell surplus fodder. Dispersal sales of dairy cattle and livestock throughout the year have seen a steady supply of stock being sold either from the farm, through Frome Market, or directly from the premises.
Belchalwell Guide £250,000
A period detached cottage in need of general improvement throughout, set in spacious gardens of 0.21 acres (0.08 hectares). Freehold.
The perfect blend of an old cottage with substantial recent extensions. Located in a rural position only approximately 1 mile to Mere. Paddock and 2 hunter stables. Freehold. Guide £710,000
Tucked away down a no through lane is this extended and very well presented 4 bedroom country home with stable yard & paddocks, in total 4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold, Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Iliminster | 01460 200790
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Tarrant Gunville Guide £225,000-£250,000
Hartgrove, Shaftesbury
Leigh OIEO
Guide £195,000
£500,000
19.15 acres (7.75 hectares) of undulating, productive pasture land with far reaching views over the Blackmore Vale. Suitable for agricultural, recreational and equestrian uses. Freehold.
A tastefully improved 4-bedroom village house with light and spacious accommodation, set in attractive gardens and backing onto farmland. No onward chain. CTB F. Freehold. Sherborne | 01935 814488
A detached 2 bedroom cottage for complete renovation, situated in this highly sought after village within Cranborne Chase. Freehold. Blandford | 01258 452670
A detached bungalow on a 0.30 acre plot for modernisation/replacement (STPP) with a positive pre application response for a 4 bedroom house. Freehold.
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244
We are recognised as one of the leading agricultural auctioneers in the south of England with an expanding team of experts across the region, we welcome the opportunity to discuss selling on your behalf. Please contact Greg Ridout 01935 382909 or James Morrish 01884 218911
Middlemarsh Guide £750,000
Symonds & Sampson’s Agricultural Auctions Team LtoR: Harriet Andrews, George Russo, Greg Ridout (Partner), Will Machin, James Morrish, Paul Heard (Partner)
Crowds at Moor Court Farm, Hampshire
Windows work at almshouse
A £22,000 plan to conserve Victorian windows at Sherborne Almshouse has been completed.
The scheme has seen windows removed for conservation work to fragile glass and leaded frames. It comes as work to convert part of the building into a tearoom, as well as a centre for young people, and a community space continues, as part of a joint venture involving the Almshouse and Sherborne Abbey.
Some rooms will remain as affordable accommodation, as the property was previously used.
Chair of the Almshouse Trustees, Richard Hunt, said: “The task has been carefully managed by Holy Well Glass, a
specialist company that has worked in Winchester and Wells Cathedrals, Penrhyn Castle and St Michael’s Mount, and other prestigious locations across the country. Visitors to the Abbey Close might have noticed that some of the Almshouse windows have been boarded in recent weeks. The only way to complete repairs to the windows was for the glass and frames to be carefully removed and repaired before being replaced.
“Before too long we hope that our building will provide more much needed affordable accommodation, and with the cooperation of the Abbey, prove to be a real community asset for the town.”
For more details, visit www. stjohnshouse.org
Rural View named as one of the very best Estate Agents
ADVERTISING FEATURE
in the UK
Boutique agent, Rural View has been identified as one of the top 500 estate agents in the UK and now features in the Best Estate Agent Guide 2025 –the most comprehensive review of UK agencies.
The Best Estate Agent Guide was created to help sellers and landlords find the top agents in their area. Each year, the Guide is compiled following a rigorous assessment which analyses more than 11,300 agents against criteria which matter most to homeowners, including property marketing, customer service and results.
This year, Rural View was among the top winners, taking home a Gold Award.
Director, Charlie Graham said, “We are delighted to have been included in the Best Estate Agent Guide 2025. This industry-wide assessment only rewards the agents which meet the highest standards and we are thrilled to have been recognised within the Guide as one of the very best in the UK.
We work hard to achieve top results for our clients in a bespoke manner and it is testament to that effort that the majority of our business comes via personal recommendation.
If you’re thinking about your next move, then get in touch and we will be delighted to provide you with our expert advice.”
£725,000 Buckhorn Weston
Gillingham
Happy New Year from
Thinking of moving?
Estate Agents
As we enter the New Year many people take the first steps toward looking for a new home. If you are considering a move in 2025 we will be delighted to offer a free valuation and marketing advice on your property.
Having enjoyed a busy summer we still have many buyers registered with us wishing to purchase within the local towns and villages. If you are considering bringing your property to the market we would be delighted to hear from you.
call 01963 34000 to arrange an appointment or email wincanton@hambledon.net
Please call 01963 34000 or email wincanton@hambledon.net to book an appointment.
£300,000 Wincanton
75 new homes on way at Bryanston
THE first homes at Taylor Wimpey Southern Counties’ Bryanston Holt development in Bryanston are now for sale and available to reserve off-plan.
The development off New Road will deliver 75 new homes, including 30% of the properties being classed as affordable housing.
The two-, three- and fourbedroom homes are designed to provide a range of options for first-time buyers and growing families.
The builder is putting in more than £1 million into the
local community under a Section 106 agreement.
This includes contributions towards a new primary school, improving primary health care facilities, maintaining open green spaces and boosting sports facilities in the area.
The new homes released for sale can now be reserved off-plan at Taylor Wimpey’s Canford Vale development, at Knighton Lane, Canford Magna.
The show homes at Bryanston Holt are set to launch early this year.
Youngsters bag big weights in end of year match
DORCHESTER & District
Angling Society juniors gathered at an unseasonably mild, but slightly wet Todber Manor.
Hillview Lake showed considerable form by throwing up no fewer than four weights over the 200lb mark.
It is not always all about winning, however – three of the juniors were competing in their very first match.
Alexander Adey, five, caught 43lb, Freddie Campbell, nine, weighed 69lb, and George Ellis, six, weighed 91lb.
Josh Roe had a great end to the junior year taking third place with 209lb 12oz, and a resurgent Josiah Wells-Parkes came a close second with 261lb 15oz.
But the winner was Jack Copp with 270lb 6oz to claim the Christmas Match trophy for the first time.
The club would like to thank John Candy at Todber Manor fishery for donating the vouchers for the match.
Graham Howard, DDAS junior secretary, said: “The match rounded off an exceptional year for DDAS Juniors.
“Thank you to everyone who contributed in so many ways. There are too many to mention.”
For more information, go to www.ddasjuniors.co.uk or email juniors.sec@d-das.com
For membership information visit wwwd-das.com
School features in TV documentary
BRYANSTON and its head, Richard Jones, feature in Chasing the Dream, a sevenpart Sky Sports documentary that explores the world of football academies.
The series, hosted by former Premier League manager, Tony Pulis, features insights from some of the biggest names in football, including Pep Guardiola, Carlo Ancelotti and Trent Alexander-Arnold.
In Episode 7, Pulis visits Bryanston to discuss how the school integrates high-level athletic training with academic education.
Mr Jones, who was
interviewed during the episode, emphasised the balance between sports and education for young athletes. He said: “My concern
is that football often becomes the priority, leaving education as an afterthought.
“The challenge is to
rebalance that dynamic, making education the core focus.”
Bryanston offers sports scholarships in football, rugby, cricket, hockey, netball and equestrian sports.
Scholarships are available for entry into year 7, year 9 and year 12, with application opportunities in January, March and November 2025.
Pulis commended Bryanston’s state-of-the-art facilities and programmes.
Premier League clubs visit the school to observe its innovative approach to education alongside elite sports development.
Alexander Adey, five, with 43lb George Ellis, six, with 91lb
Freddie Campbell, nine, with 69lb
Josiah Wells-Parkes was 2nd with 261lb 15oz
Josh Roe was 3rd with 209lb 10oz
Winner Jack Copp with 270lb 6oz
Former Premier League boss Tony Pulis praised Bryanston’s facilities
ANGLING
