The New Blackmore Vale Issue 78 (15/09/2023)

Tributes paid to Della Jones

Honorary Alderman and community champion Della Jones has died age 91

TRIBUTES have been paid to ‘honourable, tenacious, intelligent and charming’ Della Jones – a North Dorset stalwart and Honorary Alderman – who has died at the age of 91.

Born in Romford, Essex, Della left school at 14 having failed her 11 plus. She married David in 1951 and the couple moved to Dorset

“As a Councillor Della was a dedicated servant to her local community – the wider North Dorset area and throughout the county,” she said.

“She was honourable, tenacious, intelligent, and charming, while her nominated

The 2023 Dorset County Show ends the summer in sunshine and style!

ORGANISERS have praised the traders, sponsors, visitors and volunteers who made the 2023 Dorset County Show one to remember.

From monster trucks to the Mounted Pony Club, the event showcased the very best of the county and the West Country.

Now, organisers have thanked everyone who took part in the show, including major sponsor, Cornish Mutual.

“Thank you to everyone that joined us for the 2023 Dorset County Show,” a spokesperson said.

“To those that visited, traded, sponsored, competed, and most of all, to those that volunteered and made this show happen, thank you.

“Together, we ended summer in true Dorset style.”

They said preparations are already underway ahead of next year’s show, which is due to take place on Saturday and Sunday, September 7 and 8, 2024.

Pictures: Steve Belasco

Venjakob - Sentino Vispring - Sublime Superb

Parker Knoll - Devonshire

A ‘happy place’

MOTOMBE Primary School has been praised for ‘calm’ lessons and branded a ‘happy place to be’ by inspectors.

The Church Road school was given a ‘good’ ranking after a recent visit by Ofsted inspectors.

Inspectors said the school was ‘a happy place to be’ and that ‘staff care deeply about pupils’ happiness and wellbeing’.

Leaders were also praised for having high expectations, with reading highlighted as a strength.

“Lessons are calm and conduct is positive around the school,” the report said.

“Pupils delight in helping one another through leadership opportunities, such as peer mentors, which help pupils to develop independence.”

Headteacher, Matt Barge, welcomed the feedback.

“We are obviously delighted that Ofsted have recognised what a fantastic school Motcombe Primary is,” he said.

“We have an incredible team of teachers who make education fun, engaging and inspiring, and this report is a testament to their hard work.

Alien invaders

Public urged to report sightings as Asian hornet spreads to Dorset

BEEKEEPERS in East Dorset are appealing to members of the public to help them stop the highly predatory Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) becoming established in this country.

The insect is a major threat to honeybees and other pollinators and has been seen in large numbers this year.

More Asian hornets have been detected in the UK this year than in the previous six years combined.

Their nests have been found in Dorset and Hampshire in the last few weeks and they are spreading across the south of England. Now members of the public are being urged to report sightings.

Diane Drinkwater, chair of the East Dorset Beekeeping Association, said: “At this early stage of the Asian hornet season, which goes on into the autumn, it is extremely worrying to see so many cases.

in colour with yellow ends to its legs and a clear orange/yellow band on its abdomen.

Just one Asian hornet can hunt down and eat 300 honeybees a day and their habit of hawking –hovering – outside the hive stops the bees from collecting nectar and pollen to feed themselves.

Europe suffers huge pollinator losses from this predator and it is feared if they get a foothold in the UK, honeybees and many other insects will be decimated here, too.

Family Law Advice

Family Law Advice

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

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

To book an appointment please call us on 01747 852377

To book an appointment please call us on 01747 852377

Offices in Shaftesbury – Sturminster Newton – Gillingham

Age Concer n North Dorset

(Sturminster Newton)

Your local charity for all age-related information and advice

Befriending Welfare Advice

Telephone Support Foot Clinic

Balance Classes

01258 475582

& Wednesday. Answerphone Friday

info@acnorthdorset.org.uk | www.acnorthdorset.org.uk

“We must act now to stop them from getting established in this country.

“Reports from Europe and Jersey indicate that this is an exceptional year for Asian hornets with record numbers of queens and nests.

“We urge the public to join forces with beekeepers to protect our honeybees and other pollinators from this voracious predator.”

More than 1,000 beekeepers across the country are part of elite teams trained to provide emergency support to the National Bee Unit’s (NBU) hornet hunters.

Hornet sightings are filtered by the NBU, part of Defra, and teams of beekeeper deployed to track hornets back to their nests, which are then destroyed.

The Asian hornet is slightly smaller than the native European hornet, mainly black

British Beekeepers’ Association trustee Julie Coleman, who lives in Kent where many of the hornets have been discovered this year, said the huge rise in cases was likely to have several reasons.

“The fact that we seem to have a cluster around the coast in Kent, also Dorset, Plymouth, Weymouth and Hampshire, makes me think they are coming across on the wind,” she said.

“And there could have been an overwintered nest in Kent which has sent out hibernating queens in the autumn.”

It is important not to approach or disturb a nest. Asian hornets are not generally aggressive towards people but can be when they perceive a threat to their nest.

Anyone who suspects they have seen an Asian hornet should report it immediately using the phone app Asian Hornet Watch or the online reporting form at https://risc. brc.ac.uk/alert.

php?species=asian_hornet

Village toasts pub effort

A VILLAGE pub has reopened – after a £100,000 community effort to get the drinks flowing again.

The Alhampton Inn, at Alhampton between Ditcheat and Castle Cary, has relaunched as a community-run pub less than 10 months after the doors were closed.

A company set up by villagers, The Alhampton Community Pub Ltd, has signed a 15-year lease with the new pub freehold owners. And thanks to village volunteers, the pub and its grounds have undergone

Writing the land

AN author-led walk around Shaftesbury has been designed to inspire writing about nature and place.

Led by nature-writer Jane Adams, ‘Writing the Land’ begins at 10am, Saturday, September 16, at the Friends Meeting House in Shaftesbury, where the group will begin with a short writing exercise.

Participants will then head out for a stroll, before returning to capture their thoughts and inspirations in prose or poetry.

Jane’s writing has featured in BBC’s Countryfile and Wildlife magazines. She has recently written Nature’s Wonders, an exploration of 50 magical moments that define our seasons, with the National Trust.

Tickets are £10 and can be bought online at www. shaftesburybookfestival. com/writing-the-land

extensive refurbishment, including the restoration of the historic pub sign.

Jeremy Burks, chair of The Alhampton Community Pub Ltd, said: “The drama of the start-up is behind us, time to welcome everyone to the Alhampton Inn.”

The investments are intended to secure the long-term viability of the pub as a community venue with appeal to the wider Somerset community.

For more information, visit alhamptoninn.com

Summer winners!

THE results of our Summer 2023 Photo Competition are in – and we’re sure you’ll agree from this issue’s front cover, the worthy winner is a real stunner!

A huge thank you to everyone who submitted their photographs, which showcased the delights of summer across the Vale.

The top three, as picked by photographer Doug Chalk, were:

1st place: Elisabeth Carr

2nd place: Natalie Dunn

3rd place: Steph White

“One photograph shouts summer at me for sure, and that’s Elisabeth Carr’s magnificent depiction of crops being harvested,” said Doug.

“Natalie Dunn’s perfect shot of the juvenile deer gets second place, and a well done from me!

“Steph White gets third place for the good-quality monochrome shot of a vintage tractor, in what looks like a ploughing contest!

“Well done to all who entered.”

Honourable mentions go to (clockwise from above) Cosmo

Gamaggio, Alison

Brockman, Alison Shawyer and Caroline Robins

First prize in the NBVM summer photo competition went to Elisabeth Carr, whose photo can be seen on this issue’s cover. Second prize was awarded to Natalie Dunn (picture left), and third went to Steph White (picture below)

Streets alive: go car-free for a day at Dorchester festival

DORCHESTER is to host a Streets Alive! festival celebrating International Car-Free Day in Acland Road car park (DT1 1EE) on Friday, September 22.

The festival, which organisers hope will ‘take a space in the centre of town usually occupied by cars and reclaim it for the townsfolk’, is open to all and takes place in the car park from noon to 5pm.

Throughout the afternoon there will be music, demonstrations, talks, food, stalls and a range of fun activities including street art, football, a bike disco and bike polo, and cycle training and repairs. Streets Alive will be based around the theme of active transport, encouraging the residents of Dorchester to find fun and engaging alternatives to driving.

There will be a range of activities and demonstrations for children to enjoy including some inter-school games. This experience and the subsequent learning will be used by the schools as part of their curriculum delivery.

Julie-Ann Booker from Dorchester Transport Action Group, which is organising the festival,

Platinum Award-Winning Care 2022

We have been awarded this much sought after accolade for our work with Gold Standards Framework

Readers wanted!

BOOK lovers are being invited to join a Shaftesbury group that meets every four weeks.

said: “The event will take a space in the centre of town usually occupied by cars and reclaim it for the townsfolk for one day, turning it temporarily into a joyous space for a series of fun and educational activities.

“The central idea is to gently encourage a behavioural change from using cars to active transport which will bring a range of benefits including, reduced levels of air and noise pollution and a reduction in our carbon footprint.

“The event will be open to everyone: old and young, mobile, and not so mobile, to experience the centre of Dorchester in a new way.”

Local cycling groups are also being encouraged to participate in a mass cycle on the day of the event. The route will finish at the Acland Street car park.

If you’d like to be involved in the festival –running a stall, performing, speaking, fundraising, or organising – email dorchesterstreetsalive@ gmail.com or call Giles Watts on 07840 061712.

You can also like/follow the event at www. facebook.com/DorchesterStreetsAlive or @ dorchesterstreetsalive on Instagram.

The Shaftesbury Bookworms gather at the Mitre Pub on a Thursday evening and is keen to welcome new members to the informal group.

“Each person picks a work of fiction, to be discussed at the next or subsequent meeting in congenial surroundings,” a spokesperson said.

“The book can be any work of fiction from classics to modern, historical to science fiction, fantasy to mystery, thriller to romance.

“The only qualification needed is to love reading.

“It’s also a chance to read something you might not ordinarily choose.”

For more details, you can find the group on Facebook, or email clare. shaftesburybookworms@gmail. com.

Best in show

Villagers show off their horticultural skills and handicraft hobbies

BRUTON & District Horticultural Society’s held its 98th annual show in the in the sports hall at King’s School in the village.

The society was pleased that entries were received from children of primary school age up to those aged 90-plus.

There were many prize-winners, including:

• Ken Dominey – Idwal and Elsie Roberts Bowl for best dahlia and the Davis Cottagers’ Cup for best fruit exhibit

• Marcus Giles – Society Cup for most points in flower classes, the Goodland Rose Bowl for best vegetable collection exhibit and the Jonathan Hatcher Cup for best vegetable exhibit

• Felicity Smith – Windmill Cup for best flowering pot plant, and best geranium

• Flora Rawlingson Plant – John Windmill Cup for most points in fruit classes, and the Banksian Medal for most points in flower, fruit and vegetable classes

• Di Clothier – Bill Chidgey Shield for best floral arrangement exhibit and Olivia Sale

Cup for most points in floral arrangement classes

• Olivia Barnes – RHS Junior Competitors Award for best overall effort in all children’s classes

• Carol Walsh – President’s Cup, a special merit exhibit from all sections chosen by the President.

New treasure seekers

FANS of vintage and preloved clothing, homewares and books should pop along to the vintage and jumble sale at Piddlehinton village hall (DT2 7TB).

On Saturday, October 7, from 11am-3pm you’ll be able to rummage to your heart’s content. Refreshments will be available and all proceeds will support the running of the village hall.

Photo by Perry Merrity II on Unsplash

Sounds around town

THE Sound of Yeovil launches on Saturday, September 16. Call in to Yeovil Art Space between 10am and 5pm to experience three music-based immersive experiences…

• Repeater Radio, a one-day only, pop-up radio station capturing the day’s activities, will be broadcasting stories and music throughout the day.

• Terry Riley’s In-C by Farmer Glitch and Friends is an open invitation to musicians to join in an afternoon performance of this late 20th-century minimalist composition.

• Yeovil Music History Exhibition features Yeovil-related music memorabilia, including fanzines, tickets and posters, along with an extensive archive of vintage recordings. The exhibition runs until November 16.

From 10am-2pm at Yeovil library you can join in a variety of family activities to celebrate Heritage Open Day. A display of objects and collections tells the stories of Yeovil, brought together by the Community Curatorial Group.

There will be live music in-store sessions at EPS Yeovil and HMV from noon to 6pm, by local talent crossing genres including experimental, rock, acoustic and more.

To finish, The 94 Club will host this year’s legendary Wyrd Wild West Festival, featuring new and experimental sounds from the West Country. For full line-up and updates: please visit www.wyrdfest.co.uk (tickets £15/pay what you can from https://wwwfestival2023.eventbrite.co.uk).

For more info visit https://yeovilartspace.uk/soundofyeovil

Protect Your Home From Care Costs & Inheritance Tax With A Living Trust.

Charity angels

Organisers of a fashion show aim to raise money and awareness for breast cancer research

MODELS with a personal experience of breast cancer will model clothes in a fashion show in Dorchester next month.

The event at Dorset Museum will raise funds for Against Breast Cancer, which supports research into secondary breast cancer.

Tickets priced £25 are on sale for the Charity Angels UK Dorchester Fashion Show on Thursday, October 12, with all proceeds from ticket sales going to the charity. The event includes a sparkling wine and canape reception, entertainment,

programme and a display of outfits from local retailers.

Tickets can be purchased through Just Giving https:// tinyurl.com/Charity-Angels-UKDorchester or go to the Facebook page, Charity Angels UK Dorchester Fashion Show, to link to the Just Giving site.

Every year more than 55,000 women and about 400 men are diagnosed with breast cancer in the UK.

Survival rates have improved hugely in the last 30 years but about 8,000 women will lose their lives to the disease.

RiskSTOP Group and C G Fry & Son Builders are key sponsors of the event. Find out more at the Charity Angels UK Dorchester Fashion Show Facebook page or email jane@ charityangels.co.uk

Advertisement feature

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

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

2. Care Costs: Placing your main home into a living trust can ring fence the property from any potential future care costs. Thus, protecting your inheritance.

3. Inheritance Tax Planning: A living trust can be part of an estate planning strategy to minimize inheritance tax liability. By placing assets into a trust, they can be excluded from your taxable estate upon your passing, potentially reducing the amount of inheritance tax your beneficiaries would owe.

4. Revocable Nature: One of the advantages of a living trust is that it is revocable, meaning you can make changes to the trust or even revoke it entirely during your lifetime. This flexibility allows you to adapt to changing circumstances or wishes.

5. Trust Administration: When you establish a living trust, you typically designate yourself as the trustee, thus maintaining control over the assets and allowing you to continue using and managing them as you did before. You can also name successor trustees to take over the administration of the trust upon your incapacity or death.

The effectiveness of a living trust in achieving your specific goals will depend on your individual circumstances. Oakwood Wills offer a free consultation in the privacy of our own home.

Tel 07832 331594

email: info@oakwoodwills.co.uk

Full steam ahead

Railway enthusiasts celebrate in style

SHILLINGSTONE Station

welcomed around 1,500 visitors over the three days of the late summer bank holiday, to celebrate the 160th anniversary of its opening in 1863.

Displays included the latest coaches and wagons received on long-term loan from the Somerset & Dorset Railway Museum, including a cinema wagon showing films of local railway interest.

Exhibitors from other Somerset & Dorset Railway sites such as Spetisbury and Midsomer Norton were present. Loco 30075 looked resplendent in its freshly painted green livery and it is anticipated that this will be in steam by early next year, marking the end of a

10-year overhaul.

Railway artefacts and memorabilia, including a name board from Evercreech Junction, were on display.

Model railways of various gauges were in operation, and children were invited to ‘drive’ a Thomas the Tank engine around an outdoor G Scale layout.

Volunteers were on hand to answer questions about the North Dorset Railway and its plans to extend towards Sturminster Newton.

The Signal Box was open, giving visitors an insight into how the levers and bells operated.

The Station has published a commemorative A4 book containing stories, anecdotes, historical articles and photographs, which is available from the Station for £5.

Bank holiday bonanza

MEMBERS of the Sturminster Newton branch of the Royal British Legion had fun and raised money for good causes over the recent Bank Holiday weekend.

The regular Reg Weeks Skittles Competition, held in the RBL Club and featuring eight teams from across the community, made £300 for the Poppy Appeal.

The Weeks Family team, captained by Shaun Weeks, Reg Weeks’ grandson, came out on top beating teams drawn from the branch committee, club committee, the town council, the Scouts, Blackmore Vale Masonic Lodge, the fire station and the boxing club.

The branch also manned a stall at the Stock Gaylard Oak Fair on the Saturday and Sunday of the long weekend.

Poppy Appeal organisers Anthony and Tracy Walsh organised a draw with the star prize being a unique bottle of gin made for and donated by the Royal Marines in Poole.

It came complete with a Commando dagger in the neck that the gin is poured through!

That along with 12 other prizes, a name the teddy competition and some generous donations raised just over £1,400, split between the Poppy Appeal and a military association.

A walk around… Milton Abbas

Soak up the scenery as you walk with retired Dorset rights of way officer Chris Slade

THIS walk’s a little longer than usual, about 8 miles, but the lovely countryside and buildings makes it worth the time and effort. Park in the main street and visit the church. Then walk down the hill and turn right, joining the footpath leading north west to the abbey, which is worth a visit.

The next place to visit is the ancient St Catherine’s chapel, located – as St Catherine’s chapels always are – on the hillside to the east of the abbey in wooded access land around which you can wander at will. Head north east until you meet a bridleway that takes you north to join a road. Turn right and soon you’ll come to a

junction where you join a bridleway that takes you south east across fields into Milton Park wood.

After half a mile, turn right and take the bridleway up the hill, south west for half a mile to meet the road at the top of the village. Turn left and head south down the road for a furlong, then turn right onto a bridleway that heads south for a mile, then turn right along a bridleway heading west for three quarters of a mile to join a road near Hewish farm.

Turn left, south, down the road for a short distance to a junction where you turn right and head west along the road which takes you for a mile past Long Close Farm to another road junction where you turn right and head north east for five furlongs, where it bends right, south east, then curves round, past the lake, to join the street that takes you through the picturesque village and back to your car.

You may have worked up a thirst that you can quench at the Hambro Arms.

Celebrations are in order for Fern Brook Lodge as it is recognised at Care South’s Stars Awards ceremony

Care South, a leading provider of high-quality residential and home care across the south of England, celebrated the outstanding achievements of its staff at its annual Stars Awards ceremony at AFC Bournemouth’s Vitality Stadium.

Now in its 14th year, the Stars Awards recognise and reward individuals and teams from across the company for their outstanding achievements and excellent care provision. They are an important event during which time is taken to celebrate care staff and thank them for their frontline duties and commitment to residents. Nominees are put forward by colleagues, residents and relatives. The ceremony was held at AFC Bournemouth’s Vitality Stadium with Care South’s Chairman, Chris Kean and Chief Executive, Simon Bird hosting care homes and Care South at Home offices who had been named as finalists.

All Care South care homes enjoy some friendly competition and there must be a winner, but it was not an easy decision for judges as the high-quality of care and feedback consistently received from residents and relatives across the whole Care South group is second to none.

Kizzy Cook from Fern Brook Lodge was selected as the Care Team Leader/Nurse of the Year. Kizzy was recognised for being both professional and cheerful, going over and above to support colleagues and putting residents at the heart of everything they do, all whilst maintaining a sense of humour.

For further information about Fern Brook Lodge

Simon Bird, Chief Executive at Care South, said: “Our Stars Awards are now in their fourteenth year and really are a highlight. Many congratulations to all our homes across the Group who certainly did very well and led the way this year! The awards provide a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the professionalism, passion, and commitment to care that is delivered day in, day out by our staff, and gives us the chance to acknowledge and thank everyone for their hard work and dedication. We received an incredible number of nominations, and all our finalists and winners should be extremely proud of themselves.”

Care South is a not-for-profit charity and leading provider of residential and home care across the south of England. Fern Brook Lodge boasts 75 welcoming bedrooms and benefits from an abundance of local shops, cafés, restaurants, and other facilities, allowing residents to continue doing what they love, whether that’s coffee with friends or enjoying time with visiting loved ones.

There is only one word to describe Fern Brook Lodge –outstanding. Excellent food, spotlessly clean rooms and beautiful gardens.”

their families and friends

Find your voice

People living with dementia, and their carers, are finding respite in a new singing group

A NEW singing event has launched in Gillingham, giving people the chance to get out – and put their voice to good use.

Dementia Friendly Gillingham has started Sing-a-Sing of Praise afternoons, an activity for those living with memory loss, dementia, or anyone who feels they would like to come along if they’ve not been out much since lockdown.

Mayor Cllr Barry Von Clemens, also chair of Dementia Friendly Gillingham, attended the first session at The Mellowes Care Home.

He said he was ‘absolutely delighted’ to see how many people had come to join care home residents for the ‘wonderful afternoon’.

Cllr Von Clemens also thanked the Mellowes for their hospitality, providing tea and cakes for the many people who came along and packed out the venue.

Annie Kings, from Dementia Friendly Gillingham said: “Knowing how much music and singing can really be good therapy; we have spent a lot of time recently planning something which we hope people will enjoy.

“This can also provide some respite time for their loved ones or carers, if they themselves don’t wish to stay for the session. And because our area includes all the outlying villages we hope this will enable people to come along and enjoy an afternoon out.

“We have done our homework, and we have spoken to those affected by dementia in one form or another, and also people who are fairly isolated due to the conditions over the past few years.

“Some people have lost their confidence about going out, but what we have discovered is that many people love to watch the BBC Songs of Praise

“So, hopefully we have been able to prepare a programme of those lovely hymns and songs which will be remembered from school assembly days, or possibly when people were able to go to church over the years, but are no longer able to do so, or just simply enjoy singing nice hymns.

“But we must stress these will not be religious sessions.”

She said they had been delighted that two care facilities have enabled them to set up the sessions – The Mellowes Care Home and Fern Brook Lodge – with the venues rotating hosting every two weeks.

“So please come along and enjoy yourself, no need to book, just turn up,” Annie added.

“We have a great keyboard and piano player, and lots of tambourines and cymbals if you want to join in with it all.”

Sing-a-Song of Praise afternoons will be held twice a month from 2pm to 3.30pm. On the second Friday of each month it will be at The Mellowes Care Home, in Common Mead Lane, and on the fourth Friday of each month at Fern Brook Lodge, off Fern Brook Lane.

For more details, call 01747 837908.

As we leave summer behind us and head into Autumn we concentrate on Shutters & Blinds to reduce energy costs and protect you from the UV rays. We o er a wide range of Blinds suited to both UV protection and thermal insulation. An example of one type of blind that achieves this is the Honeycomb style pleated blinds which trap the air in each pocket considerably decreasing the heat loss through your windows. Shutters are proven to reduce heat loss; they free up space around the window and are stylish and elegant whilst allowing you total control of the light and privacy. Both are proven to reduce energy costs and keep energy costs down. We do Blinds, Shutters, Awnings and so much more….

Mayor Cllr Barry von Clemens, chair of Dementia Friendly Gillingham, pictured with some of the committee and residents from The Mellowes Care Home

Foodbank marks 10 years

Need is just as great today as it was in 2013, say volunteers

THE Corfe Mullen Community Foodbank is set to mark 10 years of helping local people in need this autumn.

The operation got off the ground thanks to a donation from Engage Mutual, opening to the public in November 2013.

That came thanks to the initiative of Heather Booth, who went on to volunteer at the foodbank and become honorary patron.

Tracie Jackson, a volunteer for 10 years, said: “We are not doing much to mark the event – we don’t agree with spending valuable funds in that manner.

“But a Duke of Edinburgh student has volunteered to create some display boards, so we are running a simple open morning, so people can see what we do.

“We offer more than just bags of food as we also give out our recipe bags and our famous activity packs!”

The open morning is on Saturday, November 18, from 10am-noon at the hall at St Nicholas Church.

The foodbank stayed open throughout the

Covid-19 pandemic and only closes on Good Friday – it is open on Wednesday and Friday, 10am-noon.

Opening times are changed over the Christmas period to ensure families who need support receive it.

Tracie added: “Our local community in Corfe Mullen keeps us topped up, along with the school, play groups, nurseries and churches. It really is a case of the community helping the community.

“In its first year the foodbank helped 54 families – last December alone we helped more than that, which shows a need.

“We are not as big an operation as other food banks, but we are just as big on heart.”

Story time

Celebrate Roald Dahl’s children’s stories at Shaftesbury Library on Saturday, September 16, between 11am and midday.

Make your own giraffe, as featured in The Giraffe and the Pelly and Me Children under eight must be accompanied by a parent or carer.

For more information, please call Shaftesbury Library on 01747 852 256 or email shaftesburylibrary@ dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

Taste of treacle

Interested in Morris dancing or traditional music? Treacle Eater Clog is opening up practice sessions to newcomers this autumn

TREACLE Eater Clog dancers and musicians, based at Rimpton village hall, have been celebrating their 40th year and are looking for new recruits.

Highlights this year have included dancing at the Bishop’s Palace and at the Cathedral in Wells, at Exeter in the Joint Morris Organisation’s Day of Dance and at the Wessex Folk Festival in Weymouth, as well as performing around West Dorset and south Somerset.

They also headed off by train to Bradford-on-Avon as a birthday treat to dance with their new Morris friends Bells Angels.

They performed in the town and enjoyed a picnic in the park, before taking a canal boat trip down the River Avon, with their

musicians providing entertainment for the other canal boaters and passers-by.

This was followed by a gentle walk alongside the canal to Avoncliffe where a celebratory meal and a birthday cake made and iced by the Squire, was enjoyed by all.

Treacle Eater Clog have sustained their membership by running a series of free have-a-go taster sessions every year from midSeptember, the start of their practice season.

This gives potential new dancers and musicians the chance to try out North West Morris Dancing and/or play some traditional music, under the guidance of the foreman and chief musician.

They recruited four new members last year, all of whom have been performing over the summer, helping them to keep fit, make new friends and have fun.

The first of this year’s taster sessions is on Monday, September 18, from 7.30pm at the Scout Hut, Blackberry Lane, Sherborne DT9 4DE.

That will be followed by further sessions in their home location at Rimpton village hall, Rimpton BA22 8AH, between Sherborne and Marston Magna, on Monday, September 25, and again on Monday, October 2, at 7.30pm.

A warm welcome will be extended to all those who go along. For more information, phone 07974 590927 or 07988 111904, email secretary@treacleeaterclog.org or visit www. treacleeaterclog.org.uk, or find the group on Facebook.

Animal lovers

TIME is running short to enter a fun photo competition which will raise funds for the Cinnamon Trust animal charity.

Volunteer Julia Griffiths, from Gillingham, is asking owners to enter photos of their pets for the competition with the winners appearing on a calendar to be sold at the end of the year.

The photos can be old or new, colour or black and white, and of any pet, not just dogs and cats, but must be submitted by Sunday, September 24.

Has the time come to make plans for your future?

If you have received a diagnosis of dementia, you will probably be worried about your future. Perhaps you are concerned about managing your money and looking a er your home as you become more forgetful or confused.

You may have assumed that your family will automatically be able to take over managing your money and it may surprise you to know this is not the case. Your family will only be able to take over your bank account and look a er your money if you have given them written permission, in a form that banks, utility companies and other organisations will accept.

e way you give this written permission is by making a Lasting Power of Attorney. We can help you make a Lasting Power of Attorney that is tailored to you and your needs, and gives your chosen family or close friends all the permissions they need.

If you have received a diagnosis of dementia, you need to make your Lasting Power of Attorney sooner rather than later.

If you would like to talk about putting these arrangements in place, please call Christine on 07860 772274, or email christine@winter bornelegal.co.uk. Christine will visit you in your home.

Some 36 winners will be chosen to feature in the calendar and the overall winning photo will feature on the front cover and win a pet portrait drawn by established artist Dawn Warr, who lives in Sherborne.

To enter the competition, visit www.peoplesfundraising. com/fundraising/cinnamon-pets- and make a minimum donation of £1 per photo entry.

Then email photos, along with proof of donation, to cinnamonpets@outlook.com.

All donations and profits from the sale of calendars will be go to the Cinnamon Trust, a national charity that provides support for elderly and terminally ill pet owners.

Julie was furloughed for 18 months during the Covid-19 pandemic and became a volunteer for the charity to get herself out and about – and to help those who couldn’t.

She has a Springer Spaniel called Molly who she walked for several months and then adopted after her owner passed away.

Molly provided the inspiration for the competition.

Calendars can be pre-ordered by emailing cinnamonpets@outlook.com or they will be available to buy from the Coffee and Canines Shop in Gillingham from the middle of October.

For more information visit www.facebook.com/groups/ cinnamonpets.

Treacle Eater meet Bells Angels for dancing in Bradford-on-Avon

Dr. Moores patients is accepting new

Guy trained at Guy’s Hospital in London, qualified in 1998 and began his dental career in the British Army where he gained a lot of experience both at home and abroad. Since leaving the army he has worked for over 20 years as a general dental surgeon in both the NHS and private sector. He is very excited about returning to the local area and improving the dental provision in the community.

Guy has a friendly and caring approach in surgery. He shows a great deal of empathy towards the most nervous of patient. He enjoys all aspects of his work from improving peoples smiles to getting people out of pain. He is very passionate about his work, highly motivated and driven in providing high quality dentistry with the upmost professionalism.

This is a great opportunity to join our practice and gain access to our team safe in the knowledge you will be properly looked after and cared for.

Station Road, Stalbridge

Sturminster Newton, DT10 2RG

E: Stalbridgedental-rec@mydentist.co.uk

We are very excited to welcome a new member of our team at Stalbridge Dental Practice, Dr. Guy Moores.

Dr. Guy Moores

RESIDENTS displayed their culinary skills, as well as their gardening know how, in a traditional village summer show.

The gentlemen of East Knoyle obviously love their sausage rolls, with Chris Cox crowned champion against fierce competition.

The whole village entered into the spirit of the show, with numbers of entries exceeding those in previous years.

Open garden helps hospice

Garden day and pre-loved sale rakes in the cash for charity

HUNDREDS of visitors helped raise more than £26,000 for the Salisbury Hospice Charity when an annual garden day and sale was held at Hatch House in the heart of the Wiltshire countryside.

The country house gardens include a 17th century walled Dutch garden with two tiers of lawn framed by herbaceous borders and views across the Vale of Wardour.

Visitors enjoyed marquees filled with vintage and designer pre-loved clothes, shoes and accessories, along with a men’s clothes marquee,

plus antiques, collectables and household effects, soft toys, books and a raffle.

They also enjoyed cakes, teas, local bread, Compton McRae barbecue, Pimm’s, ice cream and listening to local vocalist Charlie Greenwood perform a repertoire of jazz and soul.

The hospice will further benefit from any unsold items, as the stock is shared between local charity Alabaré and The Hospice Shop shared with Dorothy House in Salisbury.

Salisbury Hospice Charity would like to thank Sir Henry and Lady Rumbold for welcoming it to Hatch House, and the Tisbury fundraising committee, supported by family and friends.

Mere Woman Loses 3 And A Half Stone And Is Set To Help Others Locally

Sally from Mere joined Slimming World for the 2nd time in 2021 after going through chemotherapy, she had put on 4 and a half stone and was struggling. She was struggling with going through treatment and feeling unhappy in herself, feeling like a failure after trying to lose weight at home Sally realised it was time to go to a group.

Sally felt nervous walking through the door to Sallys Gillingham group it once she was inside the group were lovely and friendly and she felt at home.

Sally says “weighing in and losing 3 pounds and was great especially while I was tucking into my favourite foods like steak, jacket potato and it suited everyone at home too being family friendly meals” “I can also enjoy a gin and tonic too without feeling guilty.”

Sally with help from the group learnt how to adapt and enjoy her lifestyle and still lose weight, activity is something Sally has always

enjoyed from walking to Zumba, she now runs her own Zumba group and loves it, being active helps Sally through any stressful times and loves taking that time to focus on herself. Recently Sally took part in the Salisbury race for life with fellow members of her own group and had a brilliant time raising lots of money for cancer research. Now having lost 3 and a half stone and feeling amazing, feeling great in smaller clothes and finding activity much easier Sally is opening her own group in Mere lecture halls from Monday 9th October 7.30pm.

LOCAL COMMUNITY INVITED FOR AN EXCLUSIVE FIRST LOOK AT NEW RETIREMENT COMMUNITY IN BLANDFORD ST MARY

Local retirees and their families are invited to visit McCarthy Stone’s stunning new show suite at Stour Gate, a brand-new Retirement Living development at Blandford St Mary.

From Tuesday 29th August the grand reveal will take place at Stour Gate on Barley Place, built on the old site of Blandford Brewery. This will be a great opportunity for the local community to take a closer look at the professionally styled communal lounge, as well as the beautiful one and two-bedroom apartments available, which have

been thoughtfully designed with sophistication and style in mind. The show suite will be open Tuesday to Saturday, 10:30am to 5pm.

To mark the show suite opening, guests will be able enjoy refreshments and learn more about the unique brand of Retirement Living on offer at the development, which has been exclusively designed to provide everything the over 60s could need for a fulfilling and

independent lifestyle. A range of occupancy options are available at Stour Gate to help make retiring in style more accessible, including the Shared Ownership scheme in partnership with Homes England. Prices currently start from £198,750 for a one-bedroom apartment, and from £270,000 for a two-bedroom apartment*.

Those wanting to attend are encouraged to book an appointment by calling 0800 153 3076 or visit www.mccarthystone.co.uk/stour-gate

Superb kitchens designed and installed for you. Visit our showrooms to view our kitchen displays.

Shaftesbury: 01747 851 476

Longmead Industrial Estate, Shaftesbury SP7 8PL

Warminster: 01985 219 200

5-6 George Street, Warminster BA12 8QA

Conservatories, Solid Roofs, Bi-Folds, Sealed Units, Windows, Doors, Fascia, Soffit & Guttering

Conservatories, Solid Roofs, Bi-Folds, Sealed Units, Windows, Doors, Fascia, Soffit & Guttering

Conservatories, Solid Roofs, Bi-Folds, Sealed Units, Windows, Doors, Fascia, Soffit & Guttering

Conservatories, Solid Roofs, Bi-Folds, Sealed Units, Windows,

Conservatories, Solid Roofs, Bi-Folds, Sealed Units, Windows, Doors, Fascia, Soffit & Guttering

Showroom in Orchard Park Garden Centre,

Showroom in Orchard Park Garden Centre,

Conservatories, Solid Roofs, Bi-Folds, Sealed Units, Windows, Doors, Fascia, Soffit & Guttering

Showroom in Orchard Park Garden Centre,

Gillingham, SP8 5JG (Showroom by appointment only)

Gillingham, SP8 5JG (Showroom by appointment only)

Gillingham, SP8 5JG (Showroom by appointment only)

Conservatories, Solid Roofs, Bi-Folds, Sealed Units, Windows, Doors, Fascia, Soffit & Guttering

Open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm and Saturday 9am-12pm

Open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm and Saturday 9am-12pm

Gillingham, SP8 5JG (Showroom by appointment only)

Open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm and Saturday 9am-12pm

Open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm and Saturday 9am-12pm

Telephone 01747 826888

Telephone 01747 826888

Telephone 01747 826888

www.valecraft.co.uk

Showroom in Orchard Park Garden Centre, Showroom in Orchard Park Garden Centre, Gillingham SP8 5JG

www.valecraft.co.uk

Telephone 01747 826888

Gillingham, SP8 5JG (Showroom by appointment only)

Gillingham, SP8 5JG (Showroom by appointment only)

Showroom in Orchard Park Garden Centre, www.valecraft.co.uk

www.valecraft.co.uk

Open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm and Saturday 9am-12pm

Open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm and Saturday 9am-12pm

Open Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone 01747 826888

Telephone 01747 826888

Showroom in Orchard Park Garden Centre, www.valecraft.co.uk

www.valecraft.co.uk

Tel: 01747 826888

Hope for pub revamp

Plans have been submitted for pub facelift and overhaul

A HIGH Street pub and hotel in Gillingham could be set for a major overhaul if plans are approved.

The owners of The Red Lion Hotel have applied to Dorset Council for permission to carry a series of internal and external works. Changes would include the relocation of customer toilets and the bar servery, as well as the installation of a ‘glazed curtain wall’ to the rear of the listed High Street property.

“The management now wish to improve the pub’s layout and operational efficiency by moving the customer toilets (male and female) from the north to the south end of the trade area in the rear wing, as well as moving the bar servery on to the west side of that wing and modifying the access to the kitchen,” the planning application said.

“This will allow a more direct connection between the front bar areas and the rear trade area.”

Another alteration would see the flatroofed ‘rear wing’ of the building covered in cladding to ‘soften’ its appearance.

“The modern rear wing with the lower flat roof has no architectural merit and currently detracts from the appearance of the historic building,” the application went on.

“It is therefore proposed that its stark functional appearance by softened by larch “board on board” cladding being applied to the three external walls of the structure in vertical timber boarding.”

Concrete outside the building would be replaced with limestone flagstones, with doors and fixtures also replaced.

Internally, a disabled toilet would also be created, as well as a new ‘internal porch’ around the existing entrance.

“All timber beams and posts within the front trade area are to have a sympathetic cleaning using a dry ice cleaning method, to lift and reinvigorate the period elements,” it added.

“New floor finishes are proposed throughout and will include, engineered timber planks, limestone and ceramic tiles.”

For more details, and to comment on the proposals, log on to www.dorsetcouncil.gov. uk and search for application reference P/LBC/2023/04961.

Above: How the Red Lion could look

Below: The rear wing of the building would be covered in timber cladding

Our loose Canon

Sloppy journalism from one of our biggest newspapers does it no favours

by Canon Eric Woods

MY daily newspaper has long been The Times. A good many years ago, a new curate of mine at Sherborne Abbey, observing a copy on my kitchen table, remarked sniffily “Ah, I see you read the tabloid with the posh accent.”

At the time I growled, but now I think he had a point. Over the last few days The Times and its Sunday partner have regaled readers with long articles with headings such as “My wild adventures as a midlife divorcee”, “Sex, drugs and rugby balls” and “My mad midlife libido: a revealing memoir of lust after 40.”

This is precisely not what I look for in a responsible newspaper. Back in the mid-19th century, the nickname of The Times was “The Thunderer”. In the words of one commentator, that was because its editorial views at that time were “independent, accurate, informed, articulate and strong.” No longer. Today it not so much thunders as chunters. Virtually every week there is a monotonous grumble in The Sunday Times about the Royal Family. Every institution in this country which contributes to the good and the cohesion of our society can expect to be rubbished regularly. And now the hacks have turned their attention – once again – to the Church of England.

“Britain isn’t a Christian nation now, say clergy” was the headline story in The Times of 30 August, claiming that its “analysed responses from almost 1,200 serving priests” – about 6% of the total – showed that 53% of that total want the Church to start

marrying gay couples, 63% support premarital sex and 33% are seriously considering quitting their roles.

I do not have the space here to discuss the issues which arise from these claims. These and other issues highlighted by the survey are serious ones, and deserve to be considered seriously. But I do think that making any claims at all about the views of the clergy based on such a tiny proportion of its numbers is just sloppy journalism. And by the way, what of the views of the laity? Yet The Times went on milking it for days. One leading article bleated (no, it did not “thunder”) that “the world has moved on and left [the church] behind. If it is to avoid irrelevance the church would be wise to embrace the liberal instincts of its clergy and the country…. Anglicanism has sold itself as a modernising force. It should get on and modernise.”

Well, something like a century ago, William Ralph Inge – then Dean of St Paul’s Cathedral – wrote that “Whoever marries the spirit of this age will find himself a widower in the next.” I think he was right. There is something profoundly counter-cultural about Christianity. When it forgets that, it really is doomed. As St Paul wrong long ago: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God – what is good and acceptable and perfect.” [Romans 12.2]

Photo by Bank Phrom on Unsplash

Tributes to Blandford’s ‘Nan’ - who has passed away at the age of 110

ANNIE ‘Nan’ Dennett – who turned 110 in July – has passed away.

Tributes have been paid to Nan, a well-known and popular personality in Blandford. A statement from Blandford Town Council said she would be ‘sorely missed’.

“Our heartfelt condolences go out to Nan’s loving family and friends,” they said.

“So many Blandfordians knew and loved Annie – Nan – Dennett. She wasn’t just known for being a centenarian, but also for being a wonderful woman with a quick wit and a special sparkle.

“Nan, who was Dorset’s oldest resident, recently celebrated her 110th birthday, on July 27, and the Mayor of Blandford Forum, Cllr Hugo Mieville, enjoyed visiting her

that day when she offered sound advice, which she shares with us all, to ‘be kind’.

“Nan will be sorely missed in Blandford, but remembered with great affection by everyone she knew.”

Nan was originally from Lancashire, was one of 10 children and left school at 14 to work in a cotton mill, then in service and later in a Lancaster hospital.

She was five when the Spanish Flu pandemic hit during the First World War and met Ivor while serving with the WRVS during the Second World War.

They married in February 1944, living first with his family in Charlton Marshall, where she worked at Clayesmore School prior to its relocation to Iwerne Minster, at stores in Blandford, and finally at Clayesmore.

Annie ‘Nan’ Dennett has passed away at 110

We offer the full range of market leading Husqvarna Automowers, with models to suit any lawn size, shape, and terrain. Once installed the robot will intelligently cut your lawn fully autonomously, charging itself when needed. Not only do you never need to mow again, but due to the frequent cutting the grass will become greener, thicker and healthier. The latest generation NERA models also have the ability to work within virtual boundaries, allowing the mower to move between areas which can be changed at any time via the Husqvarna app.

Getting ready for winter

Preparation is everything when it comes to ensuring your precious honey bee colonies thrive this winter

by Robbie Baird, North Dorset Beekeepers Association

YES, I know… The kids are barely back at school and already we’re talking about winter! But, now that the honey harvest is in, beekeepers all over the land will be helping their bees get ready for the colder days ahead.

Unlike many other insects, the honey bee does not hibernate. Instead, they remain in their colony, clustering together to stay warm as the days shorten and the temperatures fall. They use their flight muscles to shiver and generate heat. The centre of the cluster is where you’ll find the precious queen, and the temperature will be at least 21°C (higher if they’re still producing new bees and there are larvae to look after). But we’re getting ahead of ourselves – the outside temperature is still high enough for the bees to be flying during the day although night-time temperatures below 14°C mean they may be starting to huddle for warmth during the hours of darkness. During the day, you’ll still spot them collecting nectar and pollen at plants

hard work means the worker bee will live for about six weeks, so numbers can fall quite rapidly, and as autumn arrives, the queen also lays fewer eggs. The colony will throw out the male bees (the drones) – there won’t be any new queens to be mated during the winter, so they’d only be another mouth to feed, and they can always raise some new drones next spring. Honey bees will be 100% female as they go into winter!

So, what can we beekeepers do to help?

We can start by taking a look at how each colony is shaping up. How old is the queen? Has it a grown into a strong colony during the summer? How much honey have they put away as winter stores? Is there any sign of disease (bees get sick too!)?

Where there is evidence that a colony isn’t doing too well, it’s often sensible to combine it with another. Bees will defend their colony from robbers who’ve come from elsewhere, so you can’t just put one lot of bees in with another. When combining two colonies, beekeepers will choose to keep the best, often youngest, queen and then place one colony over the other, separating them with a piece of newspaper. The bees take some time to eat their way through the newspaper and won’t fight when they meet each other slowly. Soon, they’ll be operating as one and the combined colony will be better placed to survive the winter.

through the hive wall to find the honey and the bees inside – great sources of winter food. We reduce the size of the hive entrance to allow bees to come and go while keeping the mice at bay, and placing some chicken wire around the hive provides protection from the woodpeckers.

sedum, rudbeckia and helenium.

Inside the hive, changes are starting to happen. The colony will reduce its numbers from a summer peak of around 60,000. All their hard work should mean they’ve converted a lot of nectar into honey and laid it down as winter stores in sealed beeswax comb. But there’s a balance to be struck –they need to have enough bees next spring to give the colony a good start to the new season without taking so many bees into winter that they run out of food. In summer,

Varroa is a tiny mite that lives in honey bee colonies, feeding on ‘bee blood’ and laying their eggs on honey bee larvae. They cause all sorts of problems for the bees, often resulting in viral infections, and a high mite load can even cause colony collapse. The mite originated in Asia and, as they evolved together, Asian bees can live alongside it. Here in Europe, the bees have no defence. Most beekeepers will treat their colonies to help manage this pest. Treatments tend to be naturally occurring substances like thymol and do the bees no harm, while greatly reducing mite numbers. In the wild, honey bee colonies go untreated, often with devastating consequences.

Then we need to consider how much food each colony has stored – they’ll need about 18kg of honey to survive the winter. Where they have less, beekeepers will offer a concentrated sugar solution which is quickly taken into stores, shoring up what honey they already have.

Small mammals like mice see a lovely warm beehive as the perfect place to get out of the winter cold, and some green woodpeckers have learned to chip their way

Finally, just like your loft insulation, many beekeepers will add some expanded polystyrene to the hive roof, making the job of staying warm a little bit easier. Strap down the hive against the winter winds and we’re done. Now we know we’ve given the bees the best chance to make it through to next spring, when the whole cycle of nature will take off once again.

North Dorset Beekeepers have plans to build a honey bee centre near Blandford Forum. You’ll find details on our website www.northdorsetbeekeepers.org.uk. If you’d like to make a donation, please visit checkout.justgiving.com/c/3330353. Join us

North Dorset Beekeepers cook up sugar syrup for the bees to supplement the honey they’ve stored for winter

The sugar syrup made up by the beekeepers is added to a hive via a feeder

Mental health help

Experts will be on hand at an event to support armed forces and emergency services personnel and their families

THE first guest speakers have been announced for On Track, a wellbeing event being run by The Tank Museum at Bovington in conjunction with World Mental Health Day (October 5).

The event features speakers and expert-led workshops designed to support armed forces and emergency services personnel, veterans and their families.

Guest speakers include Steve Cuss from AFC Bournemouth, who will share how the power of football can support mental health. Steve is head of Community Sports Trust and manages the Woman’s Team – the Cherries.

He will be joined by Major Pat Burgess MBE DSc, whose ‘plain and simple’ mindfulness techniques have been taught across the defence industry, prisons, schools and even Glastonbury Festival.

Jess Sterling-Yateman is returning to the event after her moving talk in 2021 to discuss the challenges of living with a parent with complex mental health issues after serving in the Armed Forces.

Former Royal Marines Sergeant Danny Cole will also be sharing his lived experience with PTSD.

Visitor experience general manager Rosanna Dean said: “Armed Forces and emergency service personnel can face unique risks and challenges to their mental health.

“The On Track event gives these individuals techniques and

Wessex Heavy Horse Society Show and Country Fair

The Wessex Heavy Horse Society’s Show and Country Fair will take place at the Turnpike Showground on Sunday 24th September. The Society’s mission is to promote the heavy horse, and visitors to the show will be able to see heavy horses being put through their paces in the in-hand, harness, driven and ridden classes. The Show will feature heavy horses from across the West Country and beyond, and some of the best horses in the area will be competing in the prestigious West of England In-Hand and Harness Championships which is the highlight of the day, and the climax of the show season. Competitors will have qualified at qualifying shows across the south west, and the Championship classes, kindly sponsored by All4Wood Tree Services of Devizes, bring together the Champions from each of those shows to see who is the best in the West! Other

attractions at the Show will include a horseshoe making competition, displays of sidesaddle riding, horse logging, terrier racing, vintage and classic vehicles and tractors as well as craft stalls and trade stands. Visitors to the show can also enter their four-legged friends into the ever popular Fun Dog Show. For more pictures and information about the Society, please visit our Facebook page – Wessex Heavy Horse Society or website www.wessexheavyhorsesociety.co.uk

peer-to-peer contacts to help build their coping skills and positively impact their lives.”

Exhibitors will include Models for Heroes, Dorset Police and Al-Anon, and the event will be livestreamed on YouTube for those who are unable to attend in person.

The final guest speakers will be announced in the coming weeks.

The event is supported by the National Lottery Community Fund and SSAFA, and is run with Bournemouth University, the Armed Forces Covenant, NHS Dorset, AFC Bournemouth Community Sports Trust and Dorset Mental Health Forum.

Admission to On Track on Thursday, October 5, is free for serving Armed Forces, veterans and past and present emergency services staff. Admission charges apply to other attendees. Pre-booking is required. Find out more at www.tankmuseum.org/on-track

Book online: blackmorevale.net Email:

BARNES PRIMARY SCHOOL

Would you like to know more about the opportunities for your 4-year-old starting school in September 2024

If so, why not come along to William Barnes Primary School

Tour of the school at 1.30pm on Wednesday 11th October 2023 and then Meet the Headteacher and our Early Years Teaching Staff – 6.00 p.m.

After a short meeting where you will be given the opportunity to ask questions, there will be a chance to look around our early years’ classroom.

Bridge Street, Sturminster Newton, Dorset, DT10 1BZ

Tel 01258 472257

E office@williambarnes.dorset.sch.uk

W www.williambarnes.dorset.sch.uk

Advertising Feature

WILLIAM

LYN’S BINGO AT MARNHULL ROYAL BRITISH LEGION on Monday 18th September Eye’s down at 7pm.

HANDEL IN WARDOUR CHAPEL. Glorious concert by Cherubim Chorus & Orchestra with outstanding soloists. 6pm Sunday 22 October. £18-32. http://cherubimtrust.org/tkts

Booking advisable.

11 5 40 64 22

BINGO! Stalbridge Hall

Thursday 28th September

90

Doors open 6.30pm Eyes down 7.30pm In aid of hall funds

VINTAGE / JUMBLE SALE

Saturday 7th October 2023 11am-3pm

The Village Hall, Piddlehinton DT2 7TB

Clothing, house stuff, books.

BREW & BAKE FOR PROSTATE CANCER

Henstridge Village Hall

Saturday 23rd September 10am - 1pm

SHAFTESBURY CARNIVAL CONCERT with music by Shaftesbury Town Silver Band on Sunday 24th September 2023 at Shaftesbury Town Hall 3pm. Admission £5

BACKGAMMON CLUB next meeting 25th September 7pm. The Mermaid, Sherborne. BYO board. Every fortnight following. Colin 07709 611926

The New Blackmore Vale Magazine

DEADLINES

Display ads must be booked by Wednesday the week prior to publication, with final copy submitted by the Friday.

Classified ads may be accepted after this, HOWEVER these will be subject to space.

SUNDAY 17th SEPTEMBER

BATTLE OF BRITAIN

SERVICE. Park Walk Memorial. 10.45am for 11.00am Everyone welcome to attend.

MAKE YOUR OWN CRAFT GIRAFFES from the “The Giraffe and the Pelly and Me”. Shaftesbury Library

Saturday 16th September between 11.00am and 12.00 noon

HORSE FUN RIDE OR DOG WALK across Stock Gaylard Estate

Sunday 17th September

Starts 9:30am, last rider midday Stroud farm, Lydlinch common, DT10 2JD Contact: 07833 144260

17th SEPTEMBER AND 15th OCTOBER Car Boot and Artisan Market, Winterborne Stickland Sports Club, DT11 0LZ. Sellers 10 am, Buyers 11 -3pm Contact 07714 364750

SIXPENNY HANDLEY COMMUNITY CINEMA

Allelujah

Village Hall, Common Road SP5 5NJ.

Friday 15 September / 7.00 pm / £6 Bar / Snacks / Ice creams

Information: 6dhandleyhall@gmail.com

The Early, Early Christmas Fair 2023

Join us at the Early Early Christmas Fair and be a part of supporting small businesses while making a di erence in the lives of the Army family.

Don't miss this opportunity to experience a delightful day lled with shopping, delicious treats, and the joy of giving back to those who have served our country.

Tuesday 26th September Open for Shopping from 2pm – 9.30pm

Tuesday Evening Supper and Reception 6.30pm – 9.30pm

Wednesday 27th September Open for Shopping from 9.30am – 4pm

Tedworth Park, Tidworth, Wiltshire SP9 7AH

e Early, Early Christmas Fair (EECF) is a agship event for ABF e Soldiers’ Charity, growing each year and celebrating both national occasions and community spirit. e event, held on the polo grounds near Tedworth House, showcases a diverse range of goods and serves as a start to the charity shopping

FRIDAY 22nd SEPTEMBER. BINGO. British Legion Hall, Coppice Street, Shaftesbury. Light refreshments and raffle. Doors open 6.45pm Eyes down 7.30pm.

SATURDAY 16th SEPTEMBER

SHAFTESBURY TOWN HALL 9am - 4.30/5pm

Lots of local businesses selling wonderful products. Supporting Weldmar Hospice and Dorset Somerset Air Ambulance. Free entry

NORTH CHERITON VILLAGE JUMBLE SALE

Come along and grab a bargain! All proceeds go towards village hall. Refreshments and light lunch available. 7th October 12pm - 3pm. Village Hall

GENERAL SALE, 23rd September from 2pm-5pm at ‘Trevmar’, Glanvilles Wootton. 07970 012046

SECOND HAND HORSE TACK sale in aid of The Brooke, Okeford Fitzpaine fitzpaine village hall. Sunday 1st October 2:30pm Sellers £5 per table, book in advance by emaillindajudy@talktalk.net

www.eecfair.org.uk

season, promoting the joy of community and shopping. Community, at this event, extends beyond attendees to include enthusiastic stallholders and indispensable volunteers, all highlighting the importance of belonging and connection. e Fair is an anticipated event, providing opportunities for networking, fun shopping, and supporting a noble cause. Book signings with well-known authors to include food and military titles.

is is the best fair I have been to in recent years – massive variety stalls, great prices, delicious food and a great atmosphere – easy shopping and parking just outside – if you have not been before then it is a must! ank you we all loved it so much.

Sara Wells, Hampshire

• Benefice of St Bartholomew: Saturday, September 16, 6.30pm – Sedgehill Harvest Supper, village hall; Sunday, September 17, 6pm – Harvest Evensong, St Catherine’s, Sedgehill; Sunday, September 17, 11am – Sung Harvest Eucharist followed by Harvest Lunch at 1pm, St Andrew’s, Donhead St Andrew. To book, call Kate the Rector on 01747 830174.

• Digby Memorial Church Hall: Mothers’ Union meeting on Friday, September 22, 10am for a 10.30am start. Visiting speaker Sara Jackson will talk about the work of the local women’s refuge.

• Digby Memorial Church Hall, Sherborne: Local artist Adrian Whittlesea will tutor a new 10-week drawing course. It will run every Monday from 9.30 am-noon, starting from October 2 in the Studio Room. Full details from Adrian –mobile 07787 027933 – text please – or email adrian. whittlesea123@btinternet.com

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

• Longburton Village Cafe: Tuesdays September 12 and 26, 10.30am-noon in the village church of St James. The cafe provides tea, coffee – free refills – and great cakes, just £2.

• Lower Stour Benefice: Sunday, September 17: 9.30am – Communion at Spetisbury; 9.30am – Family service at Charlton Marshall; 11am –Family service at Langton Long; 11am – Communion at Tarrant Rushton. Sunday, September 24: 9.30am –Communion at Charlton Marshall; 9.30am – Morning worship at Spetisbury; 11am – BCP Communion at Tarrant Crawford; 5pm – Blandford St Mary School Harvest Celebration; 5.30pm – Supper Church at Langton Long. Coffee and cake – Spetisbury, 10am11.30am, first and third Monday each month. Coffee and cake – Blandford St Mary, 10am11.30am, September 21.

• Sherborne Abbey concerts: In September several concerts

will be held on Saturdays in the abbey at 7.30pm. The band of the Grenadier Guards performs on September 23 (6.30pm) and the London Welsh Male Voice Choir on September 30.

• Sherborne Abbey: Art and meditation sessions exploring faith through works of art on Wednesdays September 6 and 13, 2.30pm-3.30pm in the Sepulchre Chapel. It would be helpful if anyone who would like to attend contacted the Parish Office or David Marl on 01935 389673 or at burgoyne. marl@gmail.com

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

• Blandford Methodist Church: Sundays – everyone is invited to Sunday services at 10.45am and to stay for refreshments. Thursdays –coffee and a chat from 10amnoon. Fridays – lunch club for the over-55s from noon at £5 per meal. Phone Joyce Wild on 07817 505543 to book. The church is anxious to offer help to all those in need – call church steward John Cornish on 07799 516735 or leave a message.

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

• Cheap Street Church, Sherborne: Taize service – half an hour of prayer, meditation and music on the second Sunday of the month at 6.30pm. Everyone welcome.

• Gillingham Methodist Church: Sunday recitals 3pm (about one hour). Admission free, retiring collection. Superb two manual William Sweetland organ restored and enlarged in 2006/2009. Video screen. For details and updates visit the website at www.musicatgmc. org.uk or phone 07817 379006.

• Hinton Martell: Second Sunday of the month, 10.30am Holy Communion.

• Horton Church: First Sunday of the month, 10.30am Holy Communion.

• Horton & Chalbury village hall: Third Sunday of the month, 9am Breakfast Church.

• Kingston Lacy: Second

Sunday of the month, 9.15am Holy Communion. Fourth Sunday of the month, 9.15am Family Service.

• Our Lady’s RC Church, Marnhull: Mass Sunday, 9.30am and 6pm.

• Shaftesbury Quakers (Society of Friends): Meets for one hour each Sunday from 10.30am at the Quaker Meeting House, Abbey Walk, Shaftesbury SP7 8BB.

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

Saturday, 9am CW Holy Communion; The Sepulchre Chapel.

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

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

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

Sunday.

• St Mary’s, Sturminster Newton: First, 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.

• Shapwick: Third Sunday of the month, 9.15am Holy Communion.

• Sherborne Quakers: Meet Sundays 10.30am in the Griffiths Room, Digby Memorial Church Hall. Everyone welcome.

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

• Sherborne Abbey: A shop volunteer is needed on Wednesday 10.30am-1pm. Anyone interested can call into the shop and ask for manager Phil Prout or email shop@ sherborneabbey.com.

• Sherborne Abbey visitors: The abbey is open to visitors Monday to Saturday 8am-5pm and on Sunday 11am- 5pm. The abbey may close when private services are taking place.

• Sherborne Abbey guided tours: Tuesdays at 10.30am and Fridays at 2pm, will run until Friday, December 1. No charge is made for tours but donations are appreciated.

The New Blackmore Vale Magazine DEADLINES

Arts & Entertainment

Scalextric, Daleks and more at show

THE South-West’s biggest model show is coming to The Tank Museum at Bovington next weekend.

Visitors will find all they need to know about scale modelling at the South West Model Show, and all types of models, including trains, aircraft, boats, science fiction icons, remote-controlled models and tanks on display.

The show will have something to suit every age and ability, from novices to expert scale modellers, and stalls will

be selling the latest modelling kits and accessories.

Visitors can have a go at Scalextric racing, build a tank with Models for Heroes and meet Doctor Who villains with the Dalek Charity Squad.

They can also enjoy live workshops and demonstrations, and specialist talks offering the chance to quiz the experts.

Events manager Tom Holmes said: “The Tank Museum is proud to bring the modelmaking community together to share the skills and knowledge of this fun and rewarding hobby.

“Model building is a great way to learn about history, and the museum is the perfect venue to inspire future projects.”

Visitors can also explore The Tank Museum’s immersive exhibitions, including the new Tanks for the Memories exhibition that showcases how tanks have been portrayed as a cultural icon, including through model making and toys.

The South West Model Show runs on Saturday and Sunday, September 23-24.

Visit www.tankmuseum.org/ model-show for more information and to book tickets.

Belle Street’s musical within a musical

HUGH: The Musical (Still a Work in Progress), coming to The Forester at Donhead St Andrew next week, takes a light-hearted look at 90s rom-coms, friendship and the trials and tribulations of being a performer.

Performing duo Belle Street – Susan Grant and Joni de Winter – bill it as a fun and original ‘fringe-style’ musical within a musical, with audience interaction.

The story follows two hopeful performers who have been given what could be their big break – a musical tour

with all the promise of success.

As they navigate the questionable plot of a 90s romantic comedy, their friendship is put to the test, especially when the rest of the cast don’t show up and the budget is slashed.

Can the performers carry it off to an unsuspecting audience while dodging the many plot holes and without falling out?

The workshopped version of the show was voted Best Show by public vote at Shaftesbury Fringe 2022. It is at The Forester on Thursday, September 21.

Get inside artists’ creative processes during Somerset Open Studios event

ART fans can get up close and personal with Somerset artists - and their work - as an open studios event returns for the first time since 2018.

Tomorrow (September 16) sees the start of Somerset Open Studios, with a flurry of activity in creative spaces across the county.

Running until October 1, more than 300 artists and makers are taking part, opening their doors to visitors to give them an insight into the creative process.

This year’s Guide cover artist, printmaker Julian Manning, has taken part since the very first event in 1994.

“Somerset Open Studios means endless chat, people from the past, meeting old friends, locals who have no idea of what goes on behind our garden gate and buyers who have made the effort to come from far away - a happy, exhausting time,” he said.

This year, Somerset Art Works (SAW) has developed new ways for audiences to find out more about the artists and events.

An artist profile campaign, In The Studio, provides a series of special interviews on the SAW website, delving deeper into the

process, studio secrets and thoughts behind the work.

Meanwhile, a SAW Members’ group show, Behind The Scenes, examines artists’ preoccupations at this time, with a large display of artwork in various artforms at the Taunton Brewhouse theatre.

Artists have been invited to submit one artwork, accompanied by a brief statement which looks at where artists find themselves, and their practice, after the past three years.

SAW is also working with Visit Somerset in a new initiative to give an increased presence for the event, and its artists, on the Visit Somerset website.

And the much-loved Somerset Open Studios Guide returns, available in cultural centres, libraries and tourist information points across the county and beyond.

Full details are also available on the Somerset Open Studios App, available to download for iPhone and Android, as well on the SAW website, with a full Event Calendar, and details about Family Friendly Weekend activities. For more details, and to plan a visit, log on to somersetartworks.org.uk or visitsomerset.co.uk.

Susan Grant and Joni de Winter are performing in Donhead St Andrew

North Cadbury-based Gael Sellwood is among artists opening their doors to visitors

Choir set to raise abbey roof

SHERBORNE Abbey is set to play spectacular host to the world-renowned London Welsh Rugby Club Choir.

The choir has brought its spellbinding, melodic sound to sell-out audiences across the UK and the world since it was founded in 2003.

High profile appearances have included the 2012 London Olympics closing ceremony, the British Ambassador’s residence in Rome, Six Nations rugby internationals and Saturday Morning Kitchen on television.

The choir is kept in line by acclaimed musical director Michael Wyn Jones, who has

been a member of the BBC Symphony Chorus and the 1998 Choir of the Year, the Exmoor Singers.

Under his guidance, the choir sings powerful, harmonious melodies which raise the roof and spark reflection, as they did recently in Spain when they appeared in Cadiz and Jerez cathedrals.

All proceeds from the performance in Sherborne on Saturday, September 30, will be shared between local charities the Rotary Club of Sherborne Castle and the Hidden Needs Trust, which supports children with special educational needs.

Tickets priced £12.50 adults

and £8 children under 16 can be purchased online at www. eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-londonwelsh-rugby-club-choir-in-

sherborne-abbey-tickets or in person – cash only – at the large Sherborne Market on Sunday, September 17.

Festival a draw for poets near and far

THE Tears in the Fence Poetry Festival is returning to Stourpaine village hall this weekend.

The festival is an important event in the contemporary poetry calendar and attracts poets from all over Britain and abroad.

More than 40 established

poets will be reading their work and, in some cases, launching their latest collection.

The event includes readings, talks, discussions, tributes, book signings, music, refreshments and a festival bookstall.

The theme of this year’s festival is Permacrisis, Reconciliation and Survival,

posing a set of wide-ranging and challenging questions which will stimulate a range of poetic responses.

Anyone with an interest in poetry is welcome to attend as a member of the audience.

The event runs from the evening of Friday, September 15, to the evening of Sunday,

September 17.

Tickets can be purchased in advance from the website – www.tearsinthefence.com – or bought on the door. Weekend tickets £60, Friday evening tickets £15, £15 for each of the three sessions on Saturday or £45 for the whole day, and £15 for the Sunday morning session.

Tiger tank is ready for a rare outing

VISITORS to The

Tank Museum at Bovington will be able to see the world’s only running Tiger I tank in action at Tiger Day tomorrow

(Saturday, September 16).

Tiger 131 runs only twice a year, on Tiger Day in April and September, and attracts huge crowds.

Visitors can see it in a 45-minute Second World War tank display that also includes fellow German moving armour, the Panzer I and Panzer III.

As well as the arena display, visitors can get up close to vehicles in the Tank Park, and explore military history encampments.

Inside the museum, tank fans can enjoy the 300-strong

collection of military vehicles.

The Tiger tank was a formidable weapon and the capture of 131 in the war allowed Allied Forces to understand what the enemy had unleashed.

For tickets visit www. tankmuseum.org/whats-on/ events/tiger-day

The London Welsh Male Voice Choir at Jerez Cathedral

The world’s only running Tiger 131 is in action at The Tank Museum

Giant puppet at Super Saturday

A GIANT puppet 13ft high is set to wow audiences in Yeovil at the town’s Super Saturday tomorrow (September 16).

Autin Dance Theatre company will be performing Out of the Deep Blue, which tells the story of Eko, a sea giant who rises from the deep ocean and who encounters a courageous little girl called Violet on the shore.

The puppet, operated by five puppeteers, will be joined by a

female dancer for the performances at 10.30am, 12.45pm and 3.15pm at the Quedam Shopping Centre.

Yeovil Super Saturday features food, music and entertainment in the town centre.

eat:festivals will be showcasing food from local producers and artisans, Pirates of the Carabina will be giving an outdoor aerial performance of Pirate Taxi and the Eastville

Project Space will stage a day of live music.

Abbey 104 will showcase music at designated Buskstops as musicians from near and far busk for their chosen charity.

Yeovil Art Space will be

celebrating the ‘Sound of Yeovil’ as part of the ‘Story of Yeovil’ arts and heritage project, and visitors can enjoy a circus skills workshop where they can try balancing, juggling, spinning and twirling.

Apples, Romans and Vikings at history centre

VISITORS to the Ancient Technology Centre in Cranborne will be able to get their apples ‘juiced’ at an event next weekend.

They can take along their apples from home to crush and juice in a Roman-style apple press – just take along a suitable receptacle.

Visitors will also be able to take a look in

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

the centre’s Roman replica forge building and garden, complete with graffiti copied from Pompeii.

A Roman water wheel, an experimental construction volunteers helped to build from an archaeological find from the Thames, is an ever popular attraction. Families can also enjoy have-a-go

activities, a Viking Living history camp and combat demonstrations, storytelling, and hot barbecue, tea, coffee and cake.

The Apple Weekend is on Saturday and Sunday, September 23-24, 10am to 4pm, and entry is £10 adults, £5 children, under-fours free. Park in Cranborne Middle School car park. No dogs on site.

‘The UK is doing really quite well’

EARLY autumn is a strange time in politics. The short period before the party conference recess is prime opportunity for the Opposition to take pops at the Government in preparation for yet more grandstanding at conference. Nothing can match the drama of last year’s, however, with the passing of Her Majesty and its political ups and downs.

A year on from what seemed like dark days and the UK is doing really quite well. New economic figures show that we are ahead of our European neighbours with the third fastest growth in the G7 between 2019 Q4 and 2021 Q4. We made an even better recovery from the pandemic and lockdowns than Germany. That will be Rishi Sunak’s work as chancellor.

Meanwhile, Keir Starmer was pressing for longer lockdowns. What would that

have meant? Prolonged hardship for businesses and families, more people languishing on benefits rather than getting back to work, worsening mental health problems by shutting people off from human contact and keeping kids out of school. It would have meant more debt,

which means more taxes ultimately.

Up pops RAAC concrete. The problem is serious and no child should have their learning disrupted. But it is important to recognise that the problem is only affecting a very small number of schools and none in Wiltshire, we understand. Sir Keir can go on about an old Labour plan to refurbish schools all he wants, but the fact remains that independent advice judged the programme expensive and wasteful. Faced with that, would Sir Keir have ploughed on regardless?

In better news – great news, in fact – the UK has re-joined Horizon Europe, the largest scientific research programme in the world. That’s a real boost to innovative research into a vast array of subjects like AI, on which the UK will be hosting a global conference in November.

Where we can co-operate with the EU for mutual benefit, we should, of course.

Meanwhile, my TechTrowbridge campaign to support the innovation taking place in my own patch is really taking off. On Friday, September 15, comes Access to Finance. I will welcome industry experts to share their knowledge and experience of finance to help small businesses, especially tech-oriented ones, understand what sources of funding are available to them and how to successfully apply.

I am also excited to hear of Wiltshire College’s new plans to open an esports venue. Esports is one of the world’s fastest growing competitive events and generates jobs in cyber security, code engineering and more, and it stands to bring real benefits to the area. Game on!

‘Taking in first week in Parliament’

I’M writing this article as I sit on the train on my way back to Somerset after my first incredibly busy and exciting week in Parliament where I have been familiarising myself with life in Westminster and standing up for my constituents.

My week began on Monday morning when I travelled up to London to be formally sworn in as the MP for Somerton and Frome. During the day I also had interesting meetings with the Speaker of the House, the Chief House of Commons Clerk as well as my many new colleagues.

Immediately after swearing in, I returned to the Chamber at the very first opportunity to press the Secretary of State for Education on the Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) crisis. It is totally unacceptable that children may be missing out on vital time in the classroom due to their school literally falling apart. The Government response has

also been hugely frustrating for many of the affected families as poor communication and a lack of accountability have been evident.

I called on the Secretary of State to apologise to all the schools, children and families affected by this crisis – it is time this Government stepped up and took responsibility for their failings.

I also had the opportunity to vote for the first time this week. Thankfully all went smoothly and now I’m looking forward to giving my maiden speech in a week or so.

I was delighted to attend the Cider All-Party Parliamentary Group (CAPPG) reception where more than 120 cider makers, MPs and those connected to the cider industry gathered to celebrate the importance of cider. The event also repeated calls on the Government to commit to no further excise duty increases for at least 18 months. The cider industry is incredibly important to our region and the country, supporting more than 11,000 jobs, bringing in more than 1 million tourists a year and is worth £2.95 billion. I am determined to use my position in Parliament to champion the cider industry which is synonymous to Somerset.

I also went to the launch of Alzheimer’s Research UK’s

new report and to mark World Alzheimer’s Month. While at this event I was able to speak to people with lived experience of dementia and share my own experience of caring for a loved one with the disease. I will continue to campaign on this vitally important issue throughout my time in Parliament.

Over the course of the next few days, I will be holding more surgery sessions with constituents to discuss important local issues and I am attending the fantastic Frome Cheese Show where I will be showing some of my pedigree Shetland sheep and I’ll be tasting and judging the many delicious cheeses on show from around the world.

As always if anyone has any issues that they would like to get in touch about, or if you would like to arrange a time to meet with me you can contact me on sarah.dyke.mp@ parliament.uk

Liberal Democrat MP for Somerton & Frome Sarah Dyke

Conservative MP for South West Wiltshire

Dr Andrew Murrison

‘Speed cameras are needed on A30’

IN recent times, the eastbound stretch of the A30 which connects Yeovil to Sherborne has been the site of numerous road traffic accidents. In July, an 11-year-old was airlifted to hospital with serious injuries following a crash; in the same month, there was a serious two-vehicle collision involving an 80-year old; and only last December, a fatal crash took place on this same stretch of dual carriageway.

This stretch of the A30 –known locally as Babylon Hill, or Yeovil Road – requires road safety improvements to mitigate the high number of incidents we have recently experienced and will continue to experience if nothing is done.

Over the last few years, I have met local residents to hear their concerns about the A30. In particular, the parishes of Bradford Abbas, Nether Compton and Over Compton, which are either bordered or

bisected by this stretch of road, have vocalised their wish for measures to address excessive speed. Their demands are warranted – joining the A30 from these villages via a minor road is very dangerous, especially with vehicles often travelling above the 70mph

speed limit. This is particularly hazardous at night, when it is not uncommon to encounter motorists doing speeds of over 100mph.

Road safety is firmly on my agenda. It follows fatalities on this stretch of road, and the A3066 and the A35. Only last year I lost one of my best friends from primary school in a fatal accident on the road from Sherborne to Dorchester, and I am very aware of the impact accidents have on victims, their friends and families.

In April, I raised the matter of West Dorset’s road safety with the Roads Minister, Richard Holden, urging him to prioritise safety and standards on our roads, including the A30; and in 2021, I established my A-Roads taskforce to improve road safety across the constituency.

I am now of the view that clear action comes in the form of average speed cameras on the

A30 between Sherborne and Yeovil. It is simply not enough for piecemeal measures, as this road has become a hotspot for avoidable accidents and an unofficial racetrack between the two towns. I will be writing to the Highways Department at Dorset Council, which is responsible for the road, to voice my concerns and to set out my justification.

Average speed cameras use Automatic Number Plate Reading (ANPR) technology to record a date and time stamp between two cameras to calculate a motorist’s average speed. In practical terms, it would mean that the A30 would have two cameras installed at least 200 metres apart, deterring speeding motorists and improving road safety in the long-term. I would be interested to hear your views on this, and if you would like to share your views with me, you can email me at hello@chrisloder.co.uk

‘State of nation is at rock bottom’

AS the RAAC concrete scandal in the nation’s schools proliferates, so the soft centre of the Conservative Government begins to crack and split.

Poor Rishi Sunak, who began his premiership a year ago, has found himself firmly in the firing line at last. He cannot deny that he ordered a halving of the school rebuilding programme while he was Chancellor of the Exchequer. The Tories cancelled the previous Labour administration’s school building programme, which led to the extension of Blandford School to the size and scope you see today.

Other signs are the sheer fractious nature of several past and present ministers’ relations with the media and each other. Witness the foul-mouthed outburst by Education Secretary Gillian Keegan who, at the end of an ITV interview, was so embittered by the intense level

of questioning that she complained she was doing a ‘f***ing good job’ as she lambasted her predecessors for having ‘sat on their arses’ while schools crumbled.

We also learned recently that

one of her predecessors, Gavin Williamson, sent a typically aggressive tantrum email to the Tory whips office as they refused to give him a ticket to the late Queen’s funeral in Westminster Abbey.

How typical of this party – the dregs of ministerial ‘talent’ more preoccupied with their own image than, literally in the case of schools, the fabric of our country.

Which brings me to the anniversary of the late Queen’s death. What a true sainthood she has achieved and what a shambles the nation descended to at the end of her reign and even lower after her passing.

Of course, the other anniversary this month is the arrival, then downfall and resignation of Liz Truss, who served the least time as Prime Minister in British history, Liz Truss. A couple of political commentators have managed to fill a whole book about her 47

days in office!

The financial turmoil she and Kwasi Kwarteng, her Chancellor, caused in the financial markets is still being felt in people’s mortgages today. This will continue as the nation’s fixed rate deals finish and new higher rates will apply. The Tories – astute custodians of the economy? Not anymore.

But picture the scene as the Tory Party realised its big mistake and Truss’s government crumbled around her. She apparently cancelled a meeting with her new chancellor and decided to assess her options over a pork pie and a bottle of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. What a picture to behold! I love NZ Sauvignon Blanc myself but I have never drunk it with a pork pie!

The state of our nation is at rock bottom. We hope Keir Starmer and Labour come in and restore pride to our once great country.

Alan Cross, on behalf of Dorset Labour

Conservative MP for West Dorset

Chris Loder

‘Good news for North Dorset’

“THE problem with the UK is we don’t make anything anymore”. This is often said by people as a truth and it has somehow become something of a norm to say.

Data published this week by Make UK has confirmed the total contrary. The UK is now the world’s 8th largest manufacturing economy. To put that into some sort of context: our UK manufacturing sector employs 2.6 million people and has an annual output of £224bn.

Or in other terms, the UK economy is 0.6% larger than pre-Covid levels. So the news is encouraging. As the dragon of inflation is cowed, pressure on interest rates is easing. That is good news for all and points to an encouraging future for us all.

The Government is committed to grow all sectors of the economy but we will see, I am certain, growth in clean energy and the life sciences.

The latter, among other

sectors, was given a terrific boost as we rejoined the EU’s Horizon scheme. This supports collaboration between researchers and universities and pulls together expertise and cutting-edge innovation. The former was certainly assisted as

the Energy Bill concluded its Commons’ stages.

Regular readers know of my commitment to this issue. I was asked recently at a local meeting whether, with the cost-of-living pressures, we could afford to continue decarbonising our energy and industrial sector. My reply was clear: I understand the pressures on family budgets but, as referenced above, the twin battles with high inflation and rising interest rates look to being won, that increases in wages would therefore start to feel more meaningful – in short that the cost-of-living issue was a temporary one.

Climate change is not temporary. It will only get worse unless we do more.

My answer to my interrogator was that we simply can’t afford to do nothing when it comes to climate change. If we are to survive, we have no choice. And it is a false comparison to say –

it’s either a growing economy or tackling climate change. The jobs and products of the near future are all going to be predicated on low carbon and renewables. It is the trajectory of the international economy. No one is investing in R&D to make the petrol motor faster, efforts are concentrated on making electric vehicles travel further, planes to fly greener and homes and businesses to be more energy efficient. And from that growth comes to noble aims – a cleaner greener environment AND a growing, innovation leading economy. That growth then delivers the tax £ for wages, defence and our social services. That is, as begun at the top of this article, good news for all of us across North Dorset.

Unrelated directly to the above, the good news, as confirmed to me by Dorset Council, is that there are no schools in our area with a concrete issue.

‘Dorset COP tackles big issues’

I’M happy to report that Dorset has just experienced a positive environmental event for a change. On Sat, Sept 9, a Conference of the Parties (COP) was held in Dorchester’s historic Corn Exchange, making Dorset the first county to hold such an event. Something to be proud of, and let’s hope others will follow us.

The conference echoed the annual international COPs, where representatives of world governments seek to address the critical issues of climate change and the environment.

Three of Dorset’s leading climate and environmental action groups joined forces to organise the event. They were Zero Carbon Dorset, Dorset Climate Action Network (Dorset CAN) and Sustainable Dorset. The objective of the COP was to inform, engage and galvanise Dorset residents into greater action to tackle the issues around climate change

and the environment. We were all encouraged to sign a ‘Dorchester Declaration’, which is a commitment to act, advocate and lobby for action on environmental matters across the county.

The hall was packed with enthusiastic attendees, and the

day was packed with excellent sessions. These included the Dorset Green Living Guide (available free online), retrofitting houses, roof top solar, youth activism (with representatives from Gryphon school in Sherborne, Damers school in Dorchester, Young Farmers and the Asst Head of Shaftesbury school), the Circular Economy, the Dorset Local Nature Partnership, the Carbon Literacy Toolkit for Town and Parish Councils and community groups, Climate Justice and more.

Representatives from Dorset & BCP councils took part, and more than 20 different Dorset environmental groups gave presentations outlining their activities. A Peoples’ Assembly was held, with attendees exploring ways to achieve a positive environmental outcome for Dorset. Presentations were recorded, and in due course will be available online. Many

congratulations to the organisers for a job well done.

The only Dorset MP to attend was Tobias Ellwood (East Bournemouth). Perhaps with a little encouragement our MP Simon Hoare will find himself motivated to attend the next COP, which is planned for next year. Like Tobias, Simon has generally voted against measures to prevent climate change.

It was great to see this first Dorset COP so well attended, and to experience the enthusiasm and positivity of the presenters and attendees. There is no room for complacency. The 27 International COPs held since 1995 have not yet stopped the relentless rise in carbon emissions. No doubt the massive lobbying by fossil fuel interests and others has played a part in that failure, as has the reluctance of politicians to show genuine leadership. We cannot wait for others to step up and do the right thing. It starts with us.

Conservative MP for North Dorset Simon Hoare

Ken Huggins on behalf of the Green Party in North Dorset

Leaking main and water privatisation

I REPORTED to Wessex Water a leaking water main on the A350, Bozley Hill, in Cann, on August 23.

The water was running down the road surface but, more importantly, was making its way underground, to appear on the Tarmacked surface of our, unadopted, spur, Mill Lane, 50 metres downhill.

The water then re-appeared at the end of the Tarmac section of the lane, to discharge onto my garage parking area.

Any future repairs needed to the lane, caused by the flow of water beneath, will doubtless have to be borne by those who live by it.

The flow also raised the water level in the well by our cottage and raised a couple of floorboards in the cottage.

Checking the report today online, it seems no further action is recorded, beyond logging and stating that Wessex Water hopes to be with us on August 24!

I also note that a new stream runs through part of Melbury Abbas, courtesy of the same provider, so there is the comfort of not being alone!

Wessex Water turned over £500 million last year with a profit of more than £70 million, a percentage margin which defies belief for a utility company.

One of the inspectors that visited our lane, to check on our stop-valve, advised me that the company provides 54% of the total profit generated by the Malaysian parent.

I’d love to read, in the New Blackmore Vale, the thoughts of those Conservative members of Parliament who regularly contribute, on the success of Margaret Thatcher’s privatisation of the water industry. Any chance?

Paul East Bozley Hill

IN reply to the Rev. Marsh – New Blackmore Vale, August

18 – I do not doubt that individual clergy do care about what we are doing to this Earth and many of them do something about it.

I do go to church and am a co-opted member of our parochial church council.

As a result of this I have dealings with the Anglican church as represented by the Diocese of Salisbury. This is what I have observed in the last many years.

Our village got together and had a new village hall built and paid for solar panels to be fitted. Our household and many others were involved in

We also had hedgehog sign stolen

I WAS sorry to read the article about the missing hedgehog sign in Fontmell Magna that was put up at a favourite crossing point on the verge on August 6 and sadly within 12 hours was stolen – New Blackmore Vale, September 1.

We too in Charlton Marshall have had ours stolen and one damaged, possibly hit by a lorry but I am not sure.

I am a volunteer hedgehog co-ordinator for Charlton Marshall Dorset Mammal Group Hedgehog Friendly Towns and Villages and our aim is to promote hedgehog awareness.

I was given some money by our parish council Community Chest Fund to use towards promoting hedgehog awareness in our villages, so myself and Spetisbury had signs made to place in private settings near areas where hedgehogs sadly get run over.

I had two made and I was allowed to have one fitted to the railings of our village hall. It was up for a few weeks from mid-July and went missing in the middle of August, both brackets undone and taken.

fundraising, specifically for the solar panels.

We gave £500, a retired farm worker gave £1,000 and yet another household gave a similar sum.

I organised a scrap collection that bought £1,200, so, like the Rev. Marsh, we did something.

A secular organisation, the village hall committee, did something about our carbon footprint and contributed to ‘cleaning up’ the environment for our children. This was in 2013.

The diocese owns a large house in our village, in a large garden and it enjoys a very open

aspect.

To date the diocese has not invested in any form of renewable energy to reduce the carbon footprint of this property.

Do we assume that vicars are so well paid that they can have a carbon footprint as large as they like? Or that the diocese just does not care?

If we asked to put solar panels discreetly on the church porch – that is, completely out of sight, that would require a bureaucratic process known as a faculty.

Last of all, the three acres of church land – glebe land – was

Our village hall is on the main A350 road. No one saw anything. The sign was even marked with indelible pen ‘Property of Charlton Marshall Hedgehog group’.

It is wrong that people feel they can simply help themselves to things. It took time to raise money and have these made and put up.

The following week the other one was damaged and left hanging from one bracket.

I am sure whoever did this does not care that this has

caused upset, but maybe they will read this and feel some guilt.

They cost about £60 each and the culprits have in effect stolen from a charity. They would also have needed tools to remove.

If anyone has any information on these incidents, please get in touch.

Donna Merchant

Charlton Marshall Hedgehog Group

allotments but is now a pony paddock and the diocese has no intention to use this land for the benefit of our community or the many uses it could have to enhance the environment.

Incidentally, our community has given more than £100,000 in ‘share’ contributions to the diocese in the last 20 years.

I believe this record speaks for itself. The Anglican church as represented by the Salisbury diocese is completely failing to demonstrate any willingness to match its actions to its responsibilities.

Richard Foley Tarrant Hinton

I WOULD like to thank everyone who assisted us when our 1941 RAF Bedford MW broke down right on the traffic lights by Templecombe railway station while we were driving to Wings and Wheels at Henstridge.

We did not get anyone’s names, but we are grateful to the two ladies who offered their assistance, then the young couple in a silver estate car who were on their way to Longleat who stayed with us and let us use their mobile phone to call the AA, as neither of our phones could get a signal.

Finally, our thanks go to the friends of the ‘Longleat couple’ who were out for a drive in their black Land Rover and towed us

to a safe location prior to the arrival of the AA.

Sue and Peter Bould Via email

LABOUR’S Alan Cross – New Blackmore Vale, September 1 – admires the way Portugal is carpeted from end to end with wind turbines, and seems to think that more of the same would be good for Dorset.

Does he have any visual sense, or any awareness of the precious and unique nature of Dorset’s historic landscapes?

Or of how letting rip with turbines would result in their permanent semiindustrialisation?

And is he completely unaware, like most glib advocates of turbines as the Big Fix, that they only produce energy when the wind blows, which it often doesn’t?

Roger White Sherborne

IN reference to Chris Slade’s article ‘A walk around Fifehead Neville’, it would be lovely to follow his suggestion and explore Deadmoor Common, however, now the bulk of it is impassable as the footpaths are either not maintained or completely lost.

The days of walking from Fifehead Neville to Lydlinch via Deadmoor Common are a distant memory as the path is

FACTOID OF THE FORTNIGHT

OVER the next 12 months lots of discussion will take place surrounding who will be the next incumbent of Number 10 Downing Street.

But did you know, the house we all recognise as the home of the Prime Minister was, until about 1730, a private residence?

It had been lived in by the likes of the Countess of Yarmouth, Lord Lansdowne and the Earl of Grantham.

The final private resident of 10 Downing Street was a Mr Chicken.

Then, King George II presented the house on Downing Street – as well as another overlooking Horse

Guards – to Sir Robert Walpole, who held the title First Lord of the Treasury and effectively served as the first Prime Minister.

Walpole refused the property as a personal gift and asked the King to make it available as an official residence to him and to future PMs.

Walpole moved in on September 22, 1735, once work to combine the Downing Street townhouse with the property overlooking Horse Guards had been carried out.

So the next time someone new moves into 10 Downing Street, spare a thought for Mr Chicken...

now all but lost and the bridge at the end of Tuckers Water has been removed.

As the only route between the two parishes, it would be nice to see it reinstated so that it can be enjoyed by all once more.

It would be great to hear from others who have memories of walking the area.

Robyn Franklin Via email

Chris Slade says: Dorset Council has, so far, received only one report of an obstructed footpath at Deadmoor Common. That was about six months ago and is “awaiting works”.

I suggest that Robyn and

others do their best to get along the footpaths, assisted by sticks and secateurs, and where it’s too difficult, report the problem to Dorset Council. This can be done via their website www. dorsetcouncil.gov.uk. Click Countryside, then Rights of way, then Report a problem, where you can zoom in on a map, click on the appropriate spot and describe the problem.

As Deadmoor Common is open access land people don’t need to stick to the footpath but can wander around exploring it. The more people who do stick to the path, however, the better, because the best way of keeping paths open is with feet!

A LOVELY white billowing shrub, covered in bees on sunny days, is currently in full flower in Paddock Gardens, Sherborne. The garden was created in 2005 with much local participation.

I asked Peter Neal if he could

identify the shrub on the plan of the garden that he holds and he has told me it is Escallonia Bifida

The shrub is a native of south Brazil and Uruguay and requires wall protection if grown in this country.

It was donated by local residents and is clearly thriving against the warm west facing wall under the care of the Sherborne Town Grounds maintenance team.

Barbara Elsmore

Native of South America is thriving

Arrow words

Crossword

Security Measures

Across

1 Noms de plume (7)

5 Band travel, perhaps (4)

9 Cosmetic liquids (7)

10 Simple programming language (5)

11 Inexpensive (5)

12 Perform (6)

14 Pressure (6)

16 Undiscovered (6)

18 At some point (3,3)

19 Eighteenth Greek letter (5)

22 Horned African animal (5)

23 Ailment (7)

24 Ancient Persian priests (4)

25 Foment (7)

Down

2 Supple (5)

3 Instead of (2,7,2)

4 Guarantee (6)

6 Offensive (7)

7 Starchy food grain (4)

8 Sugar (7)

10 Ice-cream dessert (6,5)

13 As a single group (2,5)

15 Overseeing, as a company (7)

Brain chain

(4)

17 Keyboard writing (6)

20 Someone staying in a hotel (5)

21 Lip of a cup (4)

White glove sale of Crown Derby

CLARKE’S Auctions at Semley, having just held its first sale of the autumn, is preparing for its sale on October 13-14 sale and inviting entries for that and any of its other future sales.

The auction house has been very successful recently with single-owner collections, its latest collection being a white glove sale of Royal Crown Derby – that is every item sold.

Single-owner collections are always sought after at auction as they command higher interest and therefore higher prices.

Clarke’s has had many happy collectors sell their prized collections with it.

These have ranged from a Gold Sovereign and gold coin collection to a collection of Railwayana, including locomotives and rolling stock, and a collection of Victorian

and earlier post boxes.

Others have included an extensive Royal Crown Derby paperweight collection, a large collection of interesting taxidermy and a single-owner collection of scratch-built models, including a mini showman’s traction engine.

Anyone who has any interesting collections they are contemplating selling, or even single items, is invited to get in touch with Clarke’s to arrange a home visit or visit the salerooms in Semley.

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

Asian art in demand

THE wild elegance and eternal craftmanship of Asian art drives to usher in a new epoch in the auction world.

Asian Art continues to be a colossus in the industry with bidders from every corner of the globe competing for priceless artefacts, ranging from Ming to Qing Dynasty.

Proof of its growing prestige lies in the success of Duke’s previous Asian Art sale, in which a Chinese coral-ground bowl sold for 212,500, inclusive of buyer’s premium.

The beauty of the artefact is striking – the exterior vividly painted in sanguine red, nestled in a bed of blossoming flowers.

It is of no surprise artefacts like these continue to enchant buyers, with such history and

grace.

Consignments are being invited until October 27 for Duke’s Asian Art sale taking place on November 29.

An exceptional group of early Chinese ceramics from the Walden family are highlights, including a magnificent pair Tang Guardian figures.

John Walden was a noted collector and active member of the Oriental Ceramic Society from the 1950s.

For more information on the sale or to organise a free valuation for auction visit Duke’s website, www.dukesauctions.com, or phone the office on 01305 265080.

A fine Chinese coral-ground Bowl, sold at Duke’s Auctioneers for £212,500

Part of

of Taxidermy sold recently.

Longines watch could make £5k

ACREMAN St Auctioneers & Valuers’ next General Antiques & Collectors Auction on Saturday, October 28, includes interesting items from a local manor house hotel.

An antique flame mahogany twin pedestal sideboard fitted with an extensive Garrard & Co canteen of Art Deco cutlery is estimated at £600-£800, and an antique carved giltwood mirror with game bird detail at £600-£800.

A late 1950s Hermes Kelly handbag with its original purchase receipt and a belt with the original box purchased at the same time is estimated at £300-£500.

The Jewellery, Watches & Silver Auction on Friday, September 29, includes an 18ct Longines Master Collection gents wristwatch estimated at £4,000-£5,000 and a selection

Antiques & Collectibles Lots reveal slice of musician’s life

of Second World War military watches.

Acreman is still accepting consignments for these auctions and the specialist 20th Century & Modern Art auction on Thursday, October 26, and the Textiles Fashion & Apparel auction on Friday, November 10, moved from September.

Catalogue and bidding is through Easyliveauction.com and Thesaleroom.com.

If you have anything you would like to consign, contact Gill Norman on 07908 333577 or 01935 50874 or by email at auction@acremanstreetantiques. co.uk.

Valuation days are held every Wednesday 10am-4pm, with free valuations offered on items being considered for auction, at Acreman Auction, 121 Acreman Street, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3PH.

ITEMS from the estate of the late Malcolm ‘Mac’ McCulloch, who was in the band The Yetties, feature in the Charterhouse auction of music, film and other memorabilia.

“The Yetties were huge and toured the world, during which time they released 45 records,” said Richard Bromell, from Charterhouse.

Lots in the auction include Mac’s guitars, banjo, records, photographs, ephemera and records, which are being sold without reserve in Sherborne on Monday, October 2.

Charterhouse is now accepting further entries for the music and film memorabilia auction, and its sales of classic cars, classic motorcycles, automobilia, pictures and antiques.

Richard Bromell and the Charterhouse team can be contacted for valuations at The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, on 01935 812277 or at rb@charterhouse-auction.com

Mac McCulloch’s guitar from his days in The Yetties

Tel: (01935) 423233

07974 520545 bclocksunlimited@aol.com www.clocksunlimited.co.uk

Next Sale

European Ceramics & Glass; Clocks & Instruments; and Selected Antique Furniture & Objects

Saturday 16th September

For a full list of our specialist sales please see our website

SOLD FOR £13,500

blackmorevale.net

Thirty years of dealing in antique and Collectible Toys.

Top prices paid for all types of model railway, die cast cars, early Action Man and Star Wars, Scalextric, Meccano, unmade Airfix kits etc. Those magical makes; Hornby, Dinky, Triang, Spot-On, Corgi, Subbuteo, Britains, Timpo plus plus plus

Telephone: 01935 816072

Mobile: 07527 074343

The New Blackmore Vale Magazine

DEADLINES

Display ads must be booked by Wednesday the week prior to publication, with final copy submitted by the Friday.

Classified ads may be accepted after this, HOWEVER these will be subject to space.

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

I look forward to your visit!

For free verbal valuations please contact and South Kensington, London

Station Road, Semley, Shaftesbury SP7 9AN 01747 855122 www.semleyauctioneers.com

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

Business Awards: The finalists are...

THE finalists have been chosen in the Dorset Business Awards, as the event returns for the first time since 2019.

A panel of respected and experienced business leaders judged the entries in each category.

Dorset Chamber chief executive Ian Girling said: “Each entry for the Dorset Business Awards tells a unique story of the commitment, dedication and focus of businesses from all sectors across the county.

“We’ve seen innovative start-ups, SMEs demonstrating impressive scaling and companies delivering thoughtleading operational excellence.

“Entrants have shown true dedication to the customer experience and are creating great places for people to work.

“We’ve seen how businesses are embracing sustainability, inclusivity and their communities, and are collaborating to create a better world.

“Collectively, the entries have again shown how businesses in Dorset are committed to creating a vibrant and positive business culture.

“Congratulations to our 30 finalists who represent the talent and innovation of Dorset business.”

The three finalists from each category will take part in the Dorset Business Festival Awards dinner on Thursday, October 12, at the Hilton Hotel in Bournemouth, where the winners will be announced.

The finalists are:

n Best New Business: Bridge Health & Wellbeing;

Impressions Care; West Peak.

n Best Place to Work: Grapevine (Telecoms & IT); Hendy Group; Think Research.

n Community: AFC Community Trust; Hendy Group; Strategic Solutions Financial Services.

n Customer Experience: Wessex Internet; Marsham Court Hotel; Rose Engineering.

n Environmental Impact: Blackmore Ltd; Charles Trent Ltd; Suttles.

n Future Leaders: Hannah Arkell; Lauren Poole; Ryan

Cooper.

n Global Business: DDC Dolphin; REIDsteel; Sontronics.

n Inclusivity & Diversity in the Workplace: The CRUMBS Project; Marsham Court Hotel; Send4 Ltd.

n Scale Up: Individuality Swimming Ltd; Lewis-Manning Hospice Care; Mar-Key Group.

n Technology: CrowdComms; ESET UK; RNLI College. Conference tickets are available at www. dorsetchamber.co.uk/festival/ conference

With more choice and flexibility surrounding retirement and with people, on average, living longer than before, it’s important to make sure your pension plans are on track.

Utilising our experience, we can help you manage your income and savings, whilst guiding you through the complications of tax, so you can enjoy the lifestyle you desire.

Dorset Awards launch (from left) Dorset Chamber chief executive Ian Girling, president Caron Khan, and partner Grant Esterhuizen

Home & Garden

Making more of a good thing

by Sally Gregson

AFTER this summer’s damp days and cooler temperatures, our pot and container plants are in need of trimming back to a healthy node, or leaf-joint. Ideally a dull cloudy day right now is the best time to take cuttings of any that have good shoots of soft wood.

Ideally, choose a shoot that does not have a flower or bud at its tip, and cut it just below a leaf-node where the stem is swollen. This part of the stem is like a motorway junction – full of nutrients and hormones that are queuing to get off and on the road. The congestion blocks their passage and increases the likelihood of rooting.

Remove the bottom leaves and take out the tip, which is where different hormones cause the plant to make flower, at the expense of making roots. Dip the prepared cutting into hormone rooting powder. It’s better to tip the powder into the

lid and discard it when the job is finished.

Fill a clean pot with a 50:50 mixture of potting compost and sharp grit and insert the cuttings around the edge of the pot, firming them in with your fingers. Label them with the name, number and date the cuttings were taken to provide feedback for a later occasion.

Water the pot of cuttings well to settle the compost, drain and place inside a clear plastic bag. Blow into the bag and close the top with a tie. This prevents the bag’s sides from touching the cuttings, which causes fungal disease to strike.

Place the cuttings pot somewhere shady where you can keep an eye on them. Open

Planning for next spring

by Sally Gregson

IT may seem counter-intuitive to think about filling pots and containers for next spring in the middle of September, but now is the time to order those special bulbs for a flowery future. Mail order nurseries are sending out their catalogues, full of glorious spring flowers, many of which are unavailable at the garden centre.

Collections of Alliums may tempt you into the onion family, if you haven’t already indulged. They come in a huge variety of sizes, colours and seasons, and some of the prettiest are the later-flowering smaller varieties. Allium cernuum is an easy one to grow in a well-drained site in sun. It flowers in the summer with pretty heads of lavenderpurple, or white flowers in the case of A cernuum White Master, that nod from 45cm stalks and attract tumbling bees. They hang upside down to get

at the delicious nectar inside the flowers.

Closely related to the alliums are the Dichelostemma. They are hardy and tough enough to grow and flower in a freedraining soil in sun. Their flowers are like delicate little cigars atop 45cm stalks, and are

another bee plant. Try D Ida-Maia with its spectacular red, yellow and green cigars, named, apparently, after a Californian stagecoach driver. In the wild, hummingbirds pollinate them.

One small nursery specialises in the Alec Gray

the bag and inspect the progress of the cuttings regularly. Once the cuttings ‘perk up’ test one by very gently touching the cuttings. After two weeks there should be some resistance. If so, open up the bag. Water only if necessary. The cuttings should all have rooted, or not, by the end of September when the pot can be removed from the bag. When the roots emerge from the bottom of the container, pot up the cuttings. But if they have not sufficiently rooted after the end of October keep them somewhere frost-free over the winter and pot them up in February.

hybrid narcissi that are small, tough, but rare in cultivation. The variety N. Segovia is a very beautiful miniature daffodil with glistening white petals and small, flat, lemon cups. And N. Jumblie is a hybrid N. cyclamineus hybrid with long yellow trumpets and reflexed petals. They look quite startled to see you. Both are short-stemmed: 15cm and 20cm in height, flowering in April. They would fill a small pot, or mix them with other small bulbs such as Chionodoxa or Scilla.

If spring seems too far off, fill those pots with hardy cyclamen. C. hederifolium is in flower right now and will continue in a shady spot until the autumn. Half-hardy cyclamen that are a little larger in stature are also excellent, but they would need to be put somewhere under protection for the winter.

Dip the cuttings in hormone rooting powder and insert

Well rooted cuttings

Alliums come in a huge variety of sizes, colours and seasons

PHOTO: Dede/Pixabay

Landscaping, Groundworks and Garden Maintenance, Specialists in Patios, Fencing, Driveways, Walling, Ponds, Turfing Free Quotation

Landscaping, Groundworks and Garden Maintenance, Specialists in Patios, Fencing, Driveways, Walling, Ponds, Turfing Free Quotation

Landscaping, Groundworks and Garden Maintenance, Specialists in Patios, Fencing, Driveways, Walling, Ponds, Turfing Free Quotation

Landscaping, Groundworks and Garden Maintenance, Specialists in Patios, Fencing, Driveways, Walling, Ponds, Turfing Free Quotation

Landscaping, Groundworks and Garden Maintenance, Specialists in Patios, Fencing, Driveways, Walling, Ponds, Turfing Free Quotation

amralphlandscaping@gmail.com

amralphlandscaping@gmail.com

amralphlandscaping@gmail.com

amralphlandscaping@gmail.com

amralphlandscaping@gmail.com

www.ralphlandscaping.co.uk

www.ralphlandscaping.co.uk

www.ralphlandscaping.co.uk

www.ralphlandscaping.co.uk

www.ralphlandscaping.co.uk

Tel: 01747 850544

Tel: 01747 850544

Tel: 01747 850544

Tel: 01747 850544

Landscaping, Groundworks and Garden Maintenance, Specialists in Patios, Fencing, Driveways, Walling, Ponds, Turfing Free Quotation

Tel: 01747 850544

Mobile: 07921 637227

Mobile: 07921 637227

Mobile: 07921 637227

Mobile: 07921 637227

amralphlandscaping@gmail.com

Mobile: 07921 637227

Tel: 01747 850544

www.ralphlandscaping.co.uk

Mobile: 07921 637227

250005

Mobile: 07976 934 252

GUTTERS

WELL ROTTED MANURE

£60.00 a transit load

Contact Roger on 07885 826396 or 01202 826502

LAWN MOWING AND HEDGE CUTTING SERVICES, ShaftesburyBlandford & local villages. Please call Trevor 07970 012130

L.DAVIS AND SONS

Garden clearance and garden design

Concrete bases, patios, gravel, fencing and much more.

We also deliver compost, pots, bark, logs and other gardening products. 01458 241230 or 07950 261510

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

Sherborne Fencing Ltd

Tel: 01935 814272

Mobile: 07814246332

North Dorset Tree Surgeons

DO

the name

ROBINSON. The toolbox is of sentimental value. REWARD offered for any information leading to the recovery of the toolbox and it’s contents.

Please contact Pete Robinson 07733 406741

Show raffle leads to top robot prize!

A HOMEOWNER near Blandford will no longer need to break his back to keep his lawn down - after winning a robotic lawnmower at the recent Gillingham and Shaftesbury Show.

Mr Chapman scooped the amazing prize in a raffle run by Landpower Robotics, the family-run robotic mower experts based in Yenston, near Templecombe.

The company, which has over 10 years’ experience in providing robotiic mowers, was exhibiting at the event for the first time.

Among the demonstrations that garnered a lot of attention was a showcase of the impressive Husqvarna Automower 435X AWD lawnmower demonstrating its climbing capabilities on a steep ramp specifically manufactured for the event.

And the firm decided to reward one lucky visitor with the top prize - their very own robotic mower, an Automower 305.

As the closing time passed, the draw was made, and lucky number 270 was revealed as the winning ticket.

Mr Chapman was delighted when he received the phone call on his way home from the show and a visit was arranged to hand over

the prize.

Then, after some consideration, he decided to upgrade his prize, to the Automower 430X, which is capable of maintaining his whole lawn.

Luke Stephens, director of Landpower Robotics, said: “The event was a huge success for the company, generating interest in Husqvarna Automowers, which we believe are the market leaders.

“Our team thoroughly enjoyed being a part of it and being able to hand over a prize like this was a great way to finish.”

Landpower Robotics can supply machines suitable for all size of lawn.

If you are interested in finding out more about the range of mowers - or would like to book a no obligation quotation - visit the firm at Common Lane, Yenston, Templecombe, Somerset, BA8 0NB, or call 01963 370654.

& 1.5ton digger, stump grinder, Garden clearance, patios, fencing, decking, landscaping, driveways 30+ years’ experience

Ken 07882 441873 / 01963 32034

414478

Mr Chapman claims his prize from Luke Stephens of Landpower Robotics

Staff showing off the capabilities of the robot lawnmowers to visitors

HANDYMAN, reliable and experienced Call Chris 07413 678076

ARCHITECTURAL, BUILDING & ELECTRICAL

ALL IRONWORK. Handrails.Gates. Railings. Repairs. Restoration. 01258 880301

J& C Handyman Services

Plumbing

Painting & decorating

Shed erecting & repairs

Flat pack furniture

Shelves & curtain rails

Door hanging & skirting boards

Guttering and facia clearing and replacement

Fencing

Pointing etc...

No job too small. Please call with your requirements. 01963 364457 07368 516658

dorsethandyman26@gmail.com

www.jchandymanservices.com

•Alterations

•Renovations

•Carpentry

•Kitchen Fitting

•Bathroom Fitting

•Wall/Floor Tiling

•

T F PLANT

Sand, gravel, cement and topsoil supplied Trade & DIY. Supplied loose or collected. Small or large loads also bulk bag materials & small handy bags.

Muck-away service of inert materials

Trusted family-run business, ring for enquiries 01747 826107

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

01747 826656 franksgroup.co.uk

Architectural

Planning & Building Applications for New Build, Extensions and Conversions 01747 822162

Our advice is always free enquiries@bell-architectural.co.uk

ARCHITECTURAL, BUILDING & ELECTRICAL

ASA

All drawings for planning and construction. 07770 421624 Free

PROPERTY DESIGN AND PROJECT MANAGEMENT/ refurbishment and renovation.

Call

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

TWO FEMALE CARERS available to help you in your own home. Kind, reliable, experienced, DBS checked. Tisbury and surrounding areas. Tel. 07917 683770 EXPERIENCED

SELF-EMPLOYED CARER available in Blandford Forum and surrounding

Local Services

STEVE ADAMS CHIMNEY SWEEPING

HETAS registered woodburner and flue installer. Birdguards and cowls 07932 655267

MARTIN SIMMONDS CHIMNEY SWEEP

Friendly, Reliable, Professional - 07368 250305

K.SANSOM CHIMNEY SWEEP

Brush & vacuum

APICS registered 01963 370038

CHIMNEYS

CHRIS THE SWEEP Friendly and fully insured. Evening and weekend appointments available. 07725 112160

blackmorevale.net

Specialist Wood Burner Installation Co.

Building and plastering jobs undertaken all at affordable prices

No chimney no problem

Twin wall bespoke metal chimney systems

Chimney stack rebuilds, repair, leak fix

Relining flexible liner existing stove installations

False fireplaces

Professional and highly recommended company with 5-star reviews

NACS certificates issued Chimneys and Flues Extremely clean service

Fully insured (£5m)

Smokin Nicely C himney Sw eeps CCTV

Tel: 01258 455251

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

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

solidfuel3@aol.com www.solidfuelinstallationsltd.co.uk

From Only £55

Call now for a free survey and advice.

07521647885

WWW.STOVEANDCHIMNEYSOLUTIONS.COM

CLEANING

SHINY STOVES OVEN CLEANING

Ovens,Ranges, Aga’s, etc.

Independent Family Run Business

Covering The Blackmore Vale Area Tel 01935 592461

Mob 07875 272401

www.shinystoves.com

REGULAR CLEANING IN GILLINGHAM and the surrounding area. No dogs, during the cleaning process, please.

Izabela - 07496 866501

To place your display or classified advert in our Local Services section email: adverts@blackmorevale.net

COMPUTERS & TECH

DEREK ETHERINGTON BSc(Hons). PC/Mac, Repairs, Networks, Websites, Tuition. Free local callout. 01963362403 07855287150

http://www.dcenet.co.uk

COMPUTER MAINTENANCE & REPAIRS

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

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

ROOFING

Tom the Roofer

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

t:01747 854887

m:07525 755 696

QUALITY ROOFING: Stripping, retiling old roofs, lead works and repairs. NO VAT!

Contact 07745 625617

Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

Based in Wincanton

Tel: 07931 583614

valesideroofing@hotmail.com

Find us on

CHRIS LANGLEY FLAT ROOFING BLANDFORD

Specialist in Hi-performance felt & GRP. All of our work is GUARANTEED. All types of roofing professionally carried out. PERSONAL SUPERVISION OF ALL ORDERS. 01258-450879 | 07855-402799

Clangley12@aol.com

The New Blackmore Vale DEADLINES

Display ads must be booked by Wednesday the week before the publication, with final copy submitted by the Friday.

Classified ads may be accepted after this, however these will be subject to space.

Advertising: adverts@blackmorevale.net

Classified ads: classified@blackmorevale.net or online at blackmorevale.net

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

Time to treat yourself, at THE CLOCKSPIRE

Enjoy the Clockspire experience with our great value set menu

A three-course-menu with a choice of three dishes for each course (including healthy options) available for both lunch and dinner from Wednesday to Friday, and Saturday lunch

2 Courses £26.00 • 3 Courses £32.00 (offer not available on festive days)

Our Main Menu

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

2 Courses £38.00 • 3 Courses £43.00

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

Enjoy captivating Live Jazz with the Simply Jazz Trio on the last Thursday evening of each month, from 7pm to 9pm. Listen as you delight in seasonal dishes, exciting cocktails and fine wines.

Or simply come and enjoy a drink in our stylish mezzanine bar, welcoming you...

Wednesday to Saturday 12-3pm & 6-11pm Sunday 12-4pm

Seasonality, locally grown produce at its prime, ingredient-led dishes with an emphasis on flavour, harmony and balance, brought to table with warm and welcoming hospitality. Built in 1864 as a school, now returned to its former glory, serving an education for the palate.

Welcome to The Clockspire... 01963

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

07783 009402

Free meal check

FAMILIES are being urged to check if their children are eligible for free school meals - saving them up to £450 per year, per child.

With the cost of living crisis affecting households across the county, Dorset Council is reminding families under financial pressure to find out if their child qualifies for the initiative.

As well as receiving a healthy meal every school day, a child’s school will receive extra government fundingcalled the Pupil Premiumtowards more teaching staff, tuition or activities, totalling between £1,035 and £1,455 per year.

Dorset children who receive free school meals can also take part in free activities during the summer, Christmas and Easter holidays.

Holiday food vouchers will

Enford Farm Shop

also be provided for eligible pupils until at least March 2024.

Dorset Council provides a confidential checker so parents and carers can quickly see if they qualify. Schools do not see financial information about the families applying.

All pupils approved for free school meals will be eligible until at least March 31, 2025, and after that, until they finish the school phase they are in.

Cllr Byron Quayle, portfolio holder for children, education, skills and early help, said: “Some children can qualify for free school meals and be provided with a daily nutritious lunch - which is important for your child’s health and wellbeing.”

Log on to https://www. dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/educationand-training/schools-andlearning/at-school/free-schoolmeals, or call 01305 221090.

Hawthorn for a healthier heart

by Fiona Chapman

MY local shop must think I am a raging alcoholic as I keep going in and buying bottles of brandy! This is for my tincture making, not for immediate drinking. There is just so much fruit around. What is nature trying to tell us? Maybe it is going to be a hard winter.

The Hawthorn trees are laden with red berries and the Elder with black berries. Both trees very powerful herbs and the fruit is packed with goodness and health benefits. The rose hips are all turning a delicious red and will be ripe for picking soon. I feel I must try and make the most of this abundant harvest.

Hawthorn or Crateagus is the tree for the cardiovascular system. It encourages the heart to beat strongly without causing it stress. The berries have a sweet/sour taste and are quite

astringent on the tongue and help with the digestion of fats in the blood by encouraging HDLs – good cholesterol – and discouraging LDLs – bad cholesterol.

I put the berries in brandy and leave them in a cool dark place over the winter until the tree starts to leaf and flower. I will strain the berries out and then put the leaves and flowers in for an extremely effective heart tonic that will help to relieve blood pressure and is also extremely good for digestion and the nervous system, calming it down.

Elderberries can be used to make an immune tonic for the winter months. The berries are said to be good for a swollen spleen and for anaemia. You do have to be careful when using the berries to make sure you take them off the stems and then cook them as they contain

cyanide which can make you feel very ill.

I will pick both elderberries and rose hips and cook them to a pulp – slowly with a lid on and a bit of pure water –squeeze out the juice from the berries and hips and add local honey to make a vitaminpacked immune-boosting syrup for sore throats or for the suggestion of a cold in winter. It will need to be kept in the

fridge despite the honey having wonderful preserving effects. If you are making tinctures and syrups out of the berries, always make sure you label them clearly. It is surprisingly easy to forget what you have made and when, especially if you had a little snifter of the brandy while making it!

n Fiona Chapman is a naturopathic herbalist; email Pellyfiona@gmail.com

Hawthorn trees are laden with red berries and the fruit is packed with goodness and health benefits

PHOTO: Manfred Richter/Pixabay

Health & Wellbeing

Meditations in nature: Once in a blue moon

by Susanna Curtin

IT is late evening, and I am driving home along the Vale’s country roads. Although it is a cloudy night, the sky is surprisingly bright, and I can see the undulating contours of the hills in the distance and the patchwork hedgerows of the fields. It is then that I recall the news that tonight’s full moon is a ‘super blue moon’. I am suddenly eager for the clouds to part just a little so that I can admire the shining giant orb. It will be 2037 before we are graced with another opportunity to see this relatively rare occurrence.

Bound together forever by gravity, the moon travels around the Earth in an elliptical orbit forming an elongated circle. Thus, there are points where it is the furthest away from Earth (252,088 miles), and points where it is closest (225,744 miles). When it is at its closest point and full, it is known as a super moon. If you have ever seen a rising super moon you will know just how huge and beautiful it looks as it slowly floats up beyond the horizon. As well as super, tonight’s moon is also ‘blue’.

A blue moon is a full moon that appears twice in a month. This occurs every couple of

years as the moon takes 29.5 days to complete its cycle from being ‘new’ to ‘full’. If there is a full moon on the 1st or 2nd of a month then it is likely to be followed by a second full moon at the end of the month. No one really knows why it is called ‘blue’ – perhaps coming from the old English word ‘belewe’ meaning ‘betrayal’, as why would a month have two full moons? There are, however, rare cases where the moon does look blue due to dust particles

T’ai Chi & Qigong

First session free for new learners!

Contact Lucy at Wellness T’ai Chi

07517 183277

taichilessons47@gmail.com www.facebook.com/LucyWellness

from volcanic eruptions, but generally a blue moon has that same grey, dusty hue that we are all familiar with as the rocks on the moon consist of magnesium, iron, feldspar and other grey minerals.

Given its size relative to the Earth, our moon is the fifth largest satellite in our solar system. It is the brightest object in the sky after dark and without its steadying presence on Earth’s axis, life here would be far less agreeable. It affects our

I am Lucy of Wellness T’ai Chi and I teach T’ai Chi & Qigong to adults of all ages and levels of mobility, with the focus on health, relaxation, and being friendly and inclusive (many movements can be done seated).

I became hooked in 1994 due to improved posture/balance/relaxation and some years later, I gained a City & Guilds Teaching Adults certificate (I am fully insured). I still love teaching after over 20 years!

The famous Dr Mosley has recently added his voice in encouraging people to take up T’ai Chi, due to the many positive health outcomes. My classes are in Sherborne and Milborne Port (M to Th) and next month, I am due to offer sessions with Age UK in Milborne Port and Queen Camel (details to be confirmed).

blackmorevale.net

tides, time and light, and therefore also the navigation, migration and reproduction of animal and plant species. There has also been much speculation about the ways the moon affects human health and behaviour, and folklore and mythology is rife with tales of the moon’s power over us. Although there is little scientific evidence to support correlation with the lunar cycle and menstruation, birth rates, hospital admissions, crime, accidents or suicide rates and so on, it is not beyond belief that the light from the moon might affect our production of melatonin, which influences sleep patterns that in turn influence mood and thus human behaviour.

As I reach my house, I can see the clouds briefly part, and there, just for a minute, the super blue moon slides into view in all its splendour. Reaching for my binoculars, I can make out the craters and the wonderful rainbow colours around the halo of clouds as the light from the moon is refracted. Then it is all gone, obscured again by the weather. Had it been clear, I would certainly have spent time in my garden with a warm drink, bathing in its soft platinum light.

I am convinced the moon has healing qualities. I am certainly excited and uplifted by its presence, and I notice its absence and its phases. But mostly, like any other aspect of life on Earth, it affects me

CLASSIFIEDS The New Blackmore Vale Magazine call Lizzie 01963 400186 Call Phoenix

The next super blue moon won’t be until 2037

PHOTO: Thắng Hồ/ Pixabay

How to handle feelings of guilt

by Alice Johnsen

SO the summer is drawing to a close. School bells are tolling and trainer-familiar feet are being squeezed into squeaky new shoes. (Always at the last minute. Why?).

I’d put good money on the fact that some of the plans you had for the summer went well and some are just a dusty memory on an overlooked part of The List.

It’s the same for all of us. Yet, every year, as we wave our children off to their new school years, we feel a twinge – or more – of guilt. Fact: mothers are the best at feeling guilty. As I considered this recently I decided to find out why this is and to see what we

can do about it. Because no-one is helped by feeling guilty.

Guilt is about feeling self-conscious and distressed about what we perceive to be our responsibility for a negative thing. That could be a bad thing happening or a good thing not happening we believe because of us.

Guilt is created in the pre-frontal cortex of our brains. That’s the logical bit that is also responsible for processing everything we’ve learned or done each day. How well this happens is seriously affected by how near to bedtime you use your smart screen. A bit off topic I know but one of my bugbears.

But those are important points. This emotion, guilt, is being created in the logical part of our brains because of a feeling of distress and selfconscious knocking any logical thoughts into the long grass.

And there’s the helping hand out of guilt. When you find yourself feeling guilty about something that did or didn’t happen over the long summer months, stop and take a step back. Can you reframe that situation from a more logical perspective? As if you were looking at it on behalf of someone else. Does that help ease the guilty feelings?

Can you apply reason and see the triggering situation in a new light where you can

accept either it wasn’t such a big thing or it was unavoidable. Or ‘everyone survived so we can move on’. When we are consumed by guilt, all those sensible thoughts get pushed off the stage, to no-one’s advantage.

I suppose managing guilt is about maintaining reason over emotion. Being able to do that supports us in not only managing guilt but also stress and anxiety. I’ve written about maintaining reason over emotion before concerning different areas of my work, so if you’d like to know more, please email me.

n Alice Johnsen is a life coach based near Sherborne (07961 080513; alicejohnsen.co.uk)

New outpatient building in prospect

PLANS for a new, three-storey diagnostic and outpatient facility at Yeovil District Hospital have been submitted.

The scheme would see the new building constructed on an existing hospital car park, off Higher Kingston Road, on the town centre site.

A planning application has been submitted to Somerset Council by Berrys, on behalf of Prime (UK) Developments Ltd.

It says the scheme ‘will provide crucial facilities for existing services that the hospital offers’.

“The new diagnostic and outpatient facility will allow patients to be treated more efficiently, which will reduce waiting times and the time patients spend at the hospital,” it said.

As part of the design, a pedestrian subway to the west of the proposed development would be retained as a public right of way.

The scheme would ‘form a natural extension to the hospital-built form’, the application said.

Construction would take place on the lower half of a car

park, with the upper half recently developed to provide a new theatre building.

The 650-space multi-storey car park on the site was ‘designed to free up spaces on the hospital estate for future developments’, the plan added.

“The (proposed) car park site is located in a perfect location for the development as it is close to the main hospital buildings and is easily accessible for staff and patients,” it went on.

“There will be provision at the ground floor to have a reception with service providers delivering diagnostic services,” they said.

“The first floor provides outpatient’s and audiology consultation and treatment rooms, and the second floor offers additional staff spaces for meetings, training and welfare.”

The scheme is now set to be considered by Somerset Council planners, after a public consultation.

For more details, and to comment on the scheme, log on to www.somerset.gov.uk and search for application reference 23/02238/FUL.

Starting off by operating once a month it will give those with MS and their carers an opportunity to meet, share experiences and get advice as well as having refreshments and cake. The days and times are not yet finalised because we want to reflect your needs and wishes. It might also be possible to bring in speakers and, for those who wish, go for a swim. We are also looking for volunteers who might be able to help with the organisation of this

venture.

The proposed site of the new diagnostic and treatment centre at Yeovil Hospital and how it might look (inset)

Contact us 01963 400186 to advertise

Renault trucks Master 125.35 2014,

75500 miles, Mot 12/07/2024

In good condition, barn doors, tie rails 18 cubic meter capacity

£7995 – Call 07540 633126, Wincanton

Car trader fined

A CAR trader has been fined £1,000 and ordered to pay almost £4,000 in compensation after selling a car dubbed a ‘deathtrap’ by a court.

Adam Hussain, of Hornchurch, Essex, appeared before magistrates in Weymouth, where he pleaded guilty to selling an unroadworthy car and trying to trying to restrict the customer’s consumer rights.

The 33-year-old is sole director of The Car Company Essex Ltd trading as RNM Car Sales Essex.

In March last year, a Dorset consumer did an internet search and found a car advertised by Hussain on Gumtree. They contacted him and he described the car as being ‘a good solid vehicle’ and said it would come with a new MOT and threemonth warranty.

The customer agreed to buy

the vehicle and it was delivered for an additional fee.

The car was delivered on March 15 last year by Mr Hussain and he handed the customer a new MOT certificate and a pre-delivery inspection form. The customer took it to their local garage for a general check up and it was deemed unroadworthy and they complained to Dorset Council’s Trading Standards service.

Hussain was charged with selling an unroadworthy vehicle under the Road Traffic Act 1988 and for trying to restrict the customer’s consumer rights under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008.

He appeared in court on September 5 and pleaded guilty to the charges. He was fined £1,000, ordered to pay £3,740 in compensation and awarded the council costs of £2,124.25.

2018 (18) Dacia Sandero Stepway 0.9TCe Laureate 5dr. 90bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, sat nav, parking sensors, reverse camera, hill start assist, Bluetooth, cruise control, upto 55mpg, only 12,400 miles ..................................£9650

2018 (18) Ford Fiesta 1.0T EcoBoost Titanium Nav 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, sat nav, cruise control, touch screen, Bluetooth, hill start assist, auto lights & wipers, auto main beam, sign recognition, lane keeping aid, parking sensors, award winning engine, upto 65mpg, 88,800 miles ............£8950

2016 (66) Ford Fiesta 1.0T EcoBoost Zetec Nav Automatic 3dr. 100bhp, petrol, 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, park sensors, city pack, hill start assist, Bluetooth, £35 road tax, upto 57mpg, 22,800 miles ...............£10450

2016 (65) Ford Fiesta 1.0T EcoBoost Zetec S 3dr. 125bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, city pack, factory dress up kit, parking sensors, Bluetooth, hill start assist, heated front screen, multi award winning engine with outstanding performance & economy, FREE yearly road tax & upto 65mpg, only 42,200 miles .......................................................................................DUE IN SOON

2013 (63) Ford Kuga 2.0TDCi Titanium AWD 4x4 SUV 5dr. 163bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, appearance pack, partial leather, automatic lights & wipers, cruise control, heated front screen, hill start assist, Bluetooth, parking sensors, cambelt kit has been replaced, 62,900 miles ................................£8950

2013 (13) Land Rover Freelander 2, 2.2SD4 HSE 4x4 Automatic Station Wagon 5dr. 190bhp, diesel, 6 speed automatic gearbox, 4 wheel drive, hill start & descent, sat nav, heated leather & steering wheel, twin sunroof, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, Bluetooth, cambelt kit replaced, only 54,900 miles .........................................................................................£14950

2011 (11) Mini Clubman 1.6 Cooper Estate 5dr. 122bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, Chili pack, partial leather, park sensors, Bluetooth, cruise control, hill start assist, air con, decent boot, 82,500 miles .............................£5850

2017 (17) Peugeot 108 1.2 Allure 5dr. 82bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, reverse camera, touch screen, auto lights, hill start assist, Bluetooth, air con, alloys, key-less entry system, 38,900 miles ....................................................£7650

2016 (66) Skoda Yeti Outdoor 1.2TSi SE 5dr. 110bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, high seating, big boot, sat nav, parking sensors, cruise control, Bluetooth, hill start assist, cambelt replaced, 53,900 miles ...........................£12650

2020 (20) Suzuki Vitara 1.4 BoosterJet SZ-T Automatic SUV 5dr. 140bhp, petrol, 6 speed automatic gearbox, high seating, big boot, cruise control, Bluetooth, sat nav, reverse camera, hill start assist, 18,500 miles .................£17250

2014 (14) Vauxhall Astra 1.6 Design Automatic Estate 5dr. 115bhp, petrol, 6 speed automatic gearbox, flat fold rear seats, large boot, parking sensors, cruise control, alloys, air con, 41,900 miles ....................................................£8250

VIEWINGS BY APPOINTMENT

FORD RANGER 2003

No MOT, £1,000. 07936 229067

TOYOTA YARIS 2003 AUTOMATIC. Years MOT.

£500 ONO. 01258 817012

2014 MERCEDES SMART

CAR. Coupe. Petrol. Sport. MOT 02.05.24. Tax exempt. 999cc. £4,250. 07856 243102

VW BEETLE 1999. Very rare left hand drive. Low mileage.

2.0L Petrol. Herbie 53 livery by VW from new. One owner. FSH. New MOT. VGC. £2450 ONO. John 07796 531000 Private

CITROЁN BERLINGO 2004.

1.9 diesel. 73,000 miles. New MOT. New tyres and exhaust. Excellent condition. £2850

ONO. John 07796 531000 Private

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

Book Online classified@ blackmorevale.net

VEHICLES / TRUCKS FOR SALE OFFERS invited

Mercedes 7.5ton, 815, 2003, 238k km

Mercedes 7.5ton, 815, 2004, 238k km

2 x Scania P270, 2003, 71k km 4x2 -12m box body

MAN 6871cc, 1997 10m box body, tail lift

1 x step frame box artic trailer – scrapper

1 x small box draw bar trailer

More information and photo’s are available on request after initial offer has been made and acknowledged. Please email transport@armishaws.com or call John on 01963 34065

Peacemarsh Garage

est. 1997

Peacemarsh, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4HB www.peacemarshgarage.co.uk

Full Electric Vehicles

MOTORBIKES

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

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

SUNRISE SERVICE & MOT CENTRE

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

MOTS – class 4,5 and 7

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

Diagnostics

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

Air conditioning

Valets

MOTS – class 4,5 and 7

MOTs – class 4, 5 and 7

Courtesy Cars

Diagnostics

Diagnostics Air Conditioning

Air conditioning

Collections within a 5 mile radius

Courtesy Cars

Air

Valets

Concessions for Pensioners, Armed Forces and Emergency Services

Concessions for Armed Forces and Emergency Services

Courtesy Cars

Collections within a 5 mile radius

Concessions for Pensioners, Armed Forces and Emergency Services

Announcements

IN MEMORY ANNOUNCEMENT

IN MEMORY OF DITCHER

A charity night for prostate cancer research at Marnhull Royal British Legion to the music of Press Gang, his favourite Scar band. £5 on the door.

Saturday evening 30th September

THANK YOU

KEN MITCHELL

Hazel and family wish to thank everyone who attended the funeral and also the collection for dementia UK, up to date £435.

IN MEMORIAM

10 years on, still loved and missed.

DEATHS

PRATT Pat

Aged 90 years of Queen Camel. On 18th August 2023, peacefully of Yeovil District Hospital. Pat will be sadly missed by her family and friends. Thanksgiving Service at St Barnabas Church, Queen Camel on Tuesday 17th October at 12 noon. Donations in memory of Pat are being invited for The Leprosy Mission or The Mouth and Foot Painting Artists.

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

COLES

Malcolm John

Peacefully on 21st August 2023 in Salisbury District Hospital, aged 84 years, of Gillingham. Formerly of Warminster. Dearly loved husband of Jane. Loved by all the family and friends.

Funeral service at St. Mary’s Church Gillingham, on Tuesday 19th September at 1.30pm.

Family flowers only please. Donations if desired, in memory of Malcolm for St Mary’s PCC or The STARS APPEAL (Amesbury Ward) can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk or sent c/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Harwood House, Newbury, Gillingham SP8 4QJ Tel. 01747 833757

DEATHS

WENDY ANNE PATON

formerly of Sherborne. Died at Baily House Care Home, Mansfield aged 90 years on the 27th August 2023. A thanksgiving service will be held at St Mary Magdelene Church, Castleton on 4th October at 2:30pm.

We hope to see some of her old friends there.

VINCENT, ANNE née FOSTER

Sadly passed away on Sunday, 3rd September 2023. A dearly loved Mum, Sister and Aunt. Funeral Service will take place at Yeovil Crematorium on Monday, 25th September at 2:40pm. Family flowers only please.

You are invited to wear a splash of yellow. Donations in memory of Anne for Pulmonary Hypertension Association Ltd may be made online at www.grassby-funeral.co.uk, or cheques can be made payable to the charity and sent

c/o Grassby Funeral Service, 8 Princes Street, Dorchester, DT1 1TW. Tel: 01305 262338

SHIRLEY BLAKE

née DASH

Passed away peacefully at home after a long illness, surrounded by her family. Beloved wife, mother, nanny and great-nanny. Funeral Service will take place at Sherborne Cemetery Chapel, on Tuesday 19th September, 2023 at 12.00 noon. Donations in memory of Shirley for Weldmar Hospicecare may be sent c/o A.J. Wakely & Sons, 16 Newland, Sherborne, DT9 3JQ. (Kindly make cheques payable to the charity) Please wear bright colours.

DAVID GEORGE CROCKER

Passed away peacefully at home as the sun was setting on Sunday 3rd September. Much loved husband to Mary and Father to Heather and Paul. A lovely gentleman with a generous nature he will be greatly missed. Following a private cremation a Thanksgiving Service will be held at St Gregory’s Church, Marnhull on Thursday 21st September at 2pm. Family flowers only, donations if desired to Macmillan Cancer Support, Weldmar Hospicecare or Dorset County Hospital Charity.

C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Mons, High St, Henstridge, BA8 0RB. Tel: 01963 362570

MICHAEL PROUT (MICK)

DEATHS

MICHAEL JOHN PUCKETT

on 29th August 2023, died at home aged 67 years, of Manston. Much loved husband, father and brother who will be sorely missed and forever in our hearts. Private family service.

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

COURT Evelyn May ‘Lyn’

Peacefully on 28th August 2023 in Dorset County Hospital, aged 90 years, of Sturminster Newton. Beloved Mum, Gran and Great Granny who will be dearly missed. Funeral Service at Yeovil Crematorium on Tuesday, 3rd October at 12 noon. No flowers please. Donations if desired, in memory of Lyn for the Mary Anning Unit (Cheques made payable to Dorset County Hospital Charity) can also be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk or sent c/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Mons, High St, Henstridge BA8 0RB Tel. 01963 362570

SMITH Beryl June

Of Gillingham, passed away peacefully on the 27th August 2023, aged 95 years. A much loved Mum and Grandma. Funeral service to be held at Salisbury Crematorium on 25th September at 11:00am. Family flowers only. To make an online donation in memory of Beryl please visit her Tribute site at www.funeralcare.co.uk/tributes-and-donations or send a cheque made payable to Salisbury District Hospital Stars Appeal.

c/o Co-operative Funeralcare, 2, High Street, Gillingham, SP8 4QT

ROBERT CUTLER

Robert peacefully passed away on the 1st September 2023, aged 75 years. The funeral is taking place at Yeovil Crematorium on the 27th September 2023 at 13:20pm. Family flowers only All welcome to attend. People not to wear black please. Donations in memory of Robert are for The MS Society and may be sent direct or left at the retiring collection

Any queries, please speak to Bracher Brother’s Funeral Directors, Newbury, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4QL. Tel: 01747 822494

JULIE GRAY

Passed away peacefully in her sleep, aged 83 on the 5th of September 2023. Much loved mum, nan, great grandmother and sister. Private cremation on the 15th of September.

JOYCE RAINEY (née Ralph)

Passed away peacefully at Yeovil Hospital on 3rd September 2023, aged 88.

Much loved mum, grandmother and great grandmother. Farmed with her late husband Brian Rainey in Sutton Montis for 44 years before they retired to Gillingham.

Funeral Service at Yeovil Crematorium on 22nd September at 1.20pm.

Donations to RNLI via Peter Jackson Funeral Directors, Harwood House, Newbury, Gillingham SP8 4QJ Tel. 01747 833757

CHRISTOPHER HENRY ROBERT FOOKES

Adored husband of Ann, much loved father of Amanda, Liz, Rob and Cath and step sons Alex and Giles; Grandfather to seven.

On 8th September died peacefully at home in Milton Abbas. A Dorset life lived to the full. Funeral service at Milton Abbey, Milton Abbas on Friday 22nd September at 2.30pm. Family flowers only. Donations if desired for Milton Abbas Surgery through Colin Close Funeral Directors Tel: 01258 453133

ROBERT BERTRAM MUSPRATT “Bob”

on 1st September, 2023, peacefully, aged 87 years of Berwick St John.

A much loved husband to Maureen, Dad to Tania, Sandra and Roger and a loving Grandad to Yasmin, Haydon and Cody. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Funeral service takes place at St John’s Church, Berwick St John on Friday 29th September at 11.00am. Please wear something colourful. Family flowers only please but donations, if desired, for Alzheimer’s Society 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

A J Wakely& Sons Independent Family Funeral Directors

A J Wakely& Sons Independent Family Funeral Directors

Wakely& Sons Independent Family Funeral Directors

Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse

Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse

– 24 Hour Service –

– 24 Hour Service –

– 24 Hour Service –Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse

Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817

Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817

Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817

Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310

Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310

Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817

Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310

Pre-payment plans available

Please contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.

Pre-payment plans available

Pre-payment plans available

contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.

A J Wakely& Sons Independent Family Funeral Directors 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.

GARDENER REQUIRED to tend and develop a mature garden/ vegetable plot in Alvediston. A good knowledge of mixed border plants is desirable though training can be given. We are looking for an enthusiastic person, committed to maintaining the garden to a high standard. 2-3 days p/w. Rate dependent on experience. Enquiries: 07456 890899 or CV to andrew@alvedistonstud.co.uk

GENERAL MAINTENANCE WORKER required for a large private Estate near Tisbury, Wiltshire. A proactive ‘can do’ attitude is essential as well as a willingness to learn, and to be happy working as part of a team or independently. Competence with machinery including medium sized tractors and trailers is required, as well as the use of power tools, and the ability to spray (PA1, PA6), mow, strim & hedge cut. To support the role there will be scope for additional training & development. Awareness of H& S procedures is vital. Full, clean UK driver’s licence essential. Please email CV & covering letter to Matthew Riggs at mr@fonthill.co.uk

JOB VACANCYPRINT FINISHER

Reporting to the Shop Supervisor, working in the production department which would include operating mailing machines and finishing equipment – if you have experience in a printing or mailing environment you might the right person for us. Competitive salary, pension scheme.

Requirements

• Mechanically minded

• Computer literate

• An eye for detail

• Good at handling paper

• Working to tight deadlines.

Initially contacting our Director Martyn Harvey – and persuading him you’re the right candidate for the job 01747 820960 – including emailing a CV to mharvey@mailandprint.co.uk

PART-TIME PA TO LOCAL BUSINESSMAN AND HIS FAMILY

Chaotic family and busy chairman have exhausted their PA after 20 years and are looking to trade her in.

The job description encompasses everything from keeping the bird feeders topped up to running a cashflow, with a more detailed list available to interested applicants. The successful person will be trustworthy, unfazeable, experienced, adaptable, responsive and good-natured with comprehensive computer skills and a head for figures.

The job is well paid, interesting, varied and flexible but the right person needs to be available and ready for the next crisis. Initially 10/20 hours per week but could shrink or grow. After training, hours can be spilt between the home office near Milborne Port and home working.

Expressions of interest in the first instance to Alice at pa@animos.co.uk

Recruitment

ST GREGORY’S CHURCH, MARNHULL, Dorset seek to appoint an experienced and enthusiastic ORGANIST AND CHOIR DIRECTOR to develop our church music and re-establish a SATB choir for the next generation. The primary focus is on church worship with opportunities for community-wide recitals. RSCM rates are given. For more information please contact Revd Gaenor Hockey (Rector designate) revdgaenor@protonmail.me or 01258 821605

Experienced Support Worker required to join an existing team for an adult lady, providing 24 hour support in her family home. You would be required to provide assistance with personal care and daily living activities.

Own car is essential due to rural location and 24 + hours of work a week available, doing 12/24 hour shifts.

Rota and pay to be discussed at interview. Please enquire further or send your cv to cmorris@bushco.co.uk

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

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

Driver Required

Estate Team Member (Residential)

An exciting residential position has become available to join the Estate Team at this thriving School set in beautiful grounds on the outskirts of Sherborne.

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

Home Economics Technician

Driver Required

25 hours per week, term time only Required immediately

The Post Holder will be a key member of the Estates team and will participate in the delivery of a comprehensive maintenance, portering and security service across the school campus.

You will ideally have a Trade qualification and it is essential that you possess strong DIY skills. Previous estate management experience would be an advantage however not essential

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

This is a residential role and the successful applicant will participate in a 1 in 3 on call rota.

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

In addition to a competitive salary plus on call allowance a two bedroomed flat will be available on site for the successful candidate.

We are looking for an organised and proactive Technician who will assist with the preparation, organisation and running of the department alongside the Home Economics Teacher and help monitor resources/ ingredients in the food area. You will assist staff in the production of a wide variety of food preparation and resource organisation and monitor stock rotation within the classroom and larder, ensuring a high standard of hygiene is maintained.

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

A Health and Hygiene certificate is desirable or a willingness to complete. You will also be required to undertake first aid training.

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

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

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

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

www leweston co uk

Closing date for Applications: midday 28th September 2023

An enhanced DBS check will be undertaken by the School

equal opportunities employer.

Closing date for Applications: 28th September 2023

Catholic Foundation which welcomes pupils of all Denominations Leweston School Trust is a registered charity number 295175

Closing date: 15th August 2017

Recruitment

FULL TIME CHEF

REQUIRED for busy village pub. Attractive Salary and package available for the right candidate. 4 days on 3 off Please call 01258 268107 for more details

FULL-TIME BRICKLAYER/GROUND-WORKER required for immediate start for work around North Dorset. Good rates of pay, holiday & pension. Van supplied. Must be able to use own initiative and work independently. For more information, contact Simon on 07967 808045

Pall Bearer/Driver (Part-time)

The main duties include Pall Bearing, driving and chauffeur duties on funerals, therefore the applicant must be smart in appearance with good communication skills and hold a full driving licence. Duties also include being on the out of hours on -call rota which entails providing assistance for removals of the deceased into our care at weekends and evenings.

This is a casual part-time position with hours of work dependent on the number of funerals y ou are requested to attend and being available for the on -call rota.

Applications in writing with CV to Colin J Close Funeral Service, Peel Close, Blandford Forum DT11 7JU. Tel. 01258 453133 www.close-funeral.co.uk

Deputy Director at Future Roots

£40,000

Full Time Location: Sherborne

The Starting Salary will be in the region of £40,000 (This will increase over time in line with the development of the role and the post holder’s performance).

Hours of Work: This is a full-time role working 37 hours per week, usually Monday to Friday. (Occasional weekend and evening work may be required).

Job Description: This is an exciting new role to help Future Roots (limited by guarantee) improve, progress and develop its programs to Young people and families. We are an award-winning organisation that has been in operation for 16 years, based on a farm site between Dorchester and Sherborne.

For further details of our work visit our website at: www.futureroots.net

To apply go to: https://jobs.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/

Reference: REC/23/02263

CLOSING DATE: 20 October 2023 5:00 PM

DRIVER REQUIRED. FULL TIME. NDDC Taxi Licence required. Easily obtainable. Further details 07813 209841

CLEANER WANTED, 4/5 hours per week. Central Sherborne home. 07711 549235

DAY-TIME CLEANER

REQUIRED on a Tuesday and Thursday. 2 hours each visitflexible start. Blandford Town Centre. £12/hr. Contact 07788 593040

RELIEF DRIVER WANTED for our magazines. Multi drops around Dorset, Hampshire and Wiltshire. Must be able to hand load and unload vehicle. Call Lorraine: 07850 529937

2 x VEHICLE MECHANIC/ ENGINEER required for work on classic road and race cars. Engine building, running in, diagnostics etc. Please ring: 01747 823270 Email: info@sigmadorset.co.uk

DENTAL NURSE PART-TIME three days a week

Yeovil. GDC registered. Call 01935-433337 email hendford. dental@gmail.com.

OAKWOOD TAXIS require part-time drivers to cover various school runs in and around Dorset. Drivers can keep the vehicle at home enabling them to work more efficiently in their area. Must be over 25. Could suit semiretired person. No area knowledge test required. All expenses paid for. Average 4 hours per day, school time only. To arrange an interview please ring Andy on 01258 455555 or email oakwoodtaxis@aol.com.

FULL TIME SERVICE TECHNICIAN Servicing Folding Dining Tables in schools Full training given Clean driving licence UK Travel. Good rates of pay. Immediate start for right person. Contact peter@innovatethegroup.co.uk

Future Roots is a business like no

Future Roots is a social enterprise - a business, but not like others.

Unlike a traditional business, any profit Future Roots makes is reinvested back into the community - it does not get paid to directors or shareholders.

Started in 2006, it was registered as an enterprise in 2008 and has been supporting young people for over a decade.

Future Roots was the vision of founder, Julie Plumley.

Julie is a Dorset farmer’s daughter, but went on to have a long career in social work.

Future Roots combines the best of both worlds.

“The name Future Roots originated as we want the people who need us to feel that their Future prospects are better because of what we offer,”a spokesperson said.

“This might be better financial and job prospects; it might be happiness and wellbeing or improved resilience giving the ability to cope with a personal situation. Each of the above leads to hope that their future will be better that then they had previously thought and believed they could achieve.

“Roots came from knowing that everyone needs roots to provide the key nutrients to strengthen and grow.

“Roots are also a stretchable anchor, being a safe and secure place to return and a place that will ground you when you feel lost. Our aim is to provide stability and direction through any tough times for young people and their families.”

For more information, visit futureroots.net.

other - helping young people

SMALL FLOWER GARDEN NEEDS A GARDENER to keep it tidy. Near Ludwell. 07770 536656

ROOFING LABOURER REQUIRED in Stalbridge area. Contact Roy 01963 362325 or 07905 281456

BLACKMORE VALE JOBS GROUP

BLACKMORE VALE JOBS GROUP NOW ON Facebook

Qualified Accountant (ACA/ACCA)

Are you looking to get back into work, fed up with a daily commute or re-assessing your work life balance?

Acconomy, a cloud -based, forward -thinking Accountancy Practice is looking for an additional team member with a like -minded attitude.

You will manage a portfolio of small Ltd companies managing their accounts, tax and business advice. An opportunity to enhance your CV through use of eg Xero, QBO, Brightpay, fathomhq, in a relaxed but professional environment.

Flexible home-based working, hours to suit. No commuting required. If you’re returning to work after time out then you can build up your hours over time.

Please email your cv to nigel@acconomy.co.uk or call Nigel Simmons on 01202 678993.

Part Time Leisure Assistant / Lifeguard –Shaftesbury

(Full time salary range from £22,183 to £24,294 per annum)

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 role s:

GYMNASTICS COACHES *

LEARNING ASSISTANT SWIMMING TEACHERS *

* The necessary training and qualifications for these roles are desired but not essential and can be arranged for suitable candidates with availability to work during the afternoon, evening or at weekends

The successful candidates can expect competitive rates of pay and benefits; and to join an exceptional working environment and staff team.

For full details of the roles and application procedure, please visit our 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.

Do you hold a National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (or are willing to undertake the NPLQ) and are looking for part time hours? We can be flexible with hours – this role is key to ensuring that we can provide quality leisure facilities

Our Leisure Assistant/Lifeguard is responsible for assisting all visitors to the Leisure facilities on site, undertaking lifeguard duties for the pool, cleaning and completing tests and records in line with legislation and safety standards. We offer a competitive salary, 31 days annual salary (pro rata), NEST pension and access to an employee assistance programme.

Call 01747 449 858 to request a full job description and application form, or apply online: www.tes.com/jobs/vacancy/ -1909931

Closing date for applications: 1 October 2023. NOTE: Interviews will be during September for suitable candidates as they apply, so don’t delay getting in touch!

We are committed to the safeguarding of all our pupils. The successful applicant must be willing to undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and an enhanced

New structure for grassroots game

THE England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has given the green light for the Dorset Cricket League to become the 32nd ECB Premier League in the country, after several years of consultation.

The restructured league will come into operation next summer and aims to improve standards on and off the field.

Clubs’ grounds and sustainability will need to meet a range of criteria for their first teams to compete in the top divisions, but teams will still gain promotion based on performance, although facilities will be taken into account the further they progress.

The new structure will initially see fewer teams in the top two divisions, but it is hoped to return to ten-team divisions by 2026.

The move recognises that lots of young players in Dorset have switched to clubs in other leagues, and that some clubs have

CRICKET

played ‘out of county’, particularly in the Hampshire and Southern Leagues.

In the long-term it is hoped more players in the county team will be playing in the Dorset League.

Cricket Dorset Ltd managing director Ben Skipworth said: “This is a massively exciting development in the grassroots game and should provide a highly competitive environment for our best club players to thrive.

“It is a testament to the efforts of the committee, especially Alan Graham, to finally realise this level of league being in place in the county.”

Dorset Cricket League chair Peter Constable said: “I’m really pleased that Dorset have finally been accredited with

being an ECB Premier League after many years of hard work, not just by members of the management committee but also member clubs in raising the standard of facilities, grounds and playing strength to get to the level required by the ECB.

“We understand there will be some upheaval initially but hope this will soon be behind us as the whole league structure settles down in future seasons.”

He says he recognises that the new status focusses on the top divisions but is conscious the league must continue to provide for all clubs.

He said: “It is vital that we don’t forget the smaller clubs with teams in the lower divisions, as they are pivotal to the survival of cricket in the county and give all players, whatever their age or ability a place to play.”

Golfers help Homestart charity

CLOUDY and slightly wet conditions did not dampen the enthusiasm of the 35 golfers that turned out to support Folke Golf Club’s Senior Captain’s Day competition.

Senior captain Steve Lawes arranged golfing challenges throughout the day with all proceeds going to the Homestart Blackmore Vale charity.

Special guests included

GOLF

Charlotte

Gowen from Homestart and Folke Golf committee members.

The 18-hole stableford with on-course challenges was followed by putting and chipping competi-tions, a cold buffet in the clubhouse, and a charity auction and raffle.

At the close of the day Steve

announced that the event had raised more than £2,300 for Homestart.

The club would like to thank Toni and Nigel in the clubhouse and the Folke Golf Centre staff.

Homestart said: “Our families, volunteers, trustees and staff are extremely grateful for the funds raised which will go a long way to support local families.”

SHERBORNE Golf Club’s Captain’s Charity Chalice competition was won by Wes Caines and Patricia Rawlins.

Wes is the operations manager and Patricia is the ladies vicecaptain.

The format is six holes 4BBB, six holes foursomes and six holes greensomes.

The club have so far raised more than £7,000 for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

By Andrew Wallace Clune

Southern Counties South:

Weymouth & Portland 29 - North Dorset 41

NORTH Dorset were on the road again for the second round of the Southern Counties South fixtures, travelling to Weymouth & Portland.

On a very hot day, North accounted for the recently promoted side 41 points to 29.

Tries were scored by Lewis Munster, Jake Cannings, Gavin Weeks and two from Tom Stewart, who also kicked five conversions and two penalties.

Lewis Munster was named Man of the Match for some fantastic running with ball in hand, ferocious defence, and his try.

Tomorrow (September 16) will see North Dorset’s first home game of the season, when they take on old foes and local rivals Sherborne for the first time in four seasons. And with both teams sitting undefeated, it is likely to be hotly contested.

Devereux and Chelsey

Stableford competition winner Terry Cotton (left) with senior captain Steve Lawes

GOLF

RUGBY

Ready for charity day

DORCHESTER Lions is getting set for its forthcoming annual charity golf day at Came Down golf course.

Teams consist of four players, scoring by Stableford format, with the winning team receiving the Dorchester & District Lions Club Golf Trophy.

The entry fee is again £40, including welcome hot drink, full round of golf, midway refreshments, on-course competitions and post-round meal.

All profits from the event on Friday, September 22, will support local charities and good causes.

Dorchester Lions, which has given to more than 20 causes already this year, has nominated Dorchester Shire Hall’s Memory Cafe as a main beneficiary of the golf day.

The Memory Cafe provides activities for people living with dementia together with their families, and additional funding will allow organisers to arrange extra sessions and outreach facilities.

Andy Rose, from the Lions, said: “This is Dorchester Lions’ sixth charity golf day and we want it to be a fun event with a measure of healthy competition thrown in.

ANGLING Knockout Champion

DORCHESTER & District

Angling Society have held the final match in their junior float-only knockout series that ran throughout the summer.

The winners of the three qualifying rounds – Jack Copp, Josiah Wells-Parkes and Oliver Smith – plus the highest weight runner up –Jake Taylor – competed for the chance to be crowned the 2023 champion on the Stock Pond at Revels Fishery.

A wide variety of fish species in an even wider range of colours were caught from the start of the two-hour match on an overcast but mild late summer’s evening.

Oliver Smith retained his title of Knockout Champion

“With generous handicap allowances for men and women, we’re confident that the on-course competitions, including ‘nearest the pin’, ‘longest drive’ and ‘nearest the lion’, as well as the infamous ‘yellow ball comp’, will allow everyone taking part to contribute to their team effort and enjoy the day.

“Dorchester Lions is grateful for the hospitality shown by the manager, committee and members of Came Down Golf Club in allowing us to stage the event again this year, raising important funds for an excellent new charity initiative, the Shire Hall Memory Cafe.”

More information can be found at www.lionsdorchester.org.uk/golfday, clicking on the link to the team entry form and information page.

Alternatively, text Neil on 07762 085 828 or Andy 07815 873 246 if you would like to enter a team or email andy. rose01@btinternet.com.

The Lions is grateful to the sponsors who are aiding it again this year, helping to offset the costs involved in staging the event and ensuring it can raise as much money as possible for charity.

Sponsorship packages, starting at £50 a hole, are available and Andy is happy to provide more information.

FOOTBALL

Debut goal for Devlin

By Avril Lancaster

Shaftesbury 3 - Hythe and Dibden 2 SHAFTESBURY moved level on points with Baffins Milton Rovers with a close fought win over Hythe and Dibden at Cockrams.

Callum Sweeney, Brad Snelling, Steve Devlin and Jack Dickson all made their ‘Rockies’ debuts, with Devlin marking the occasion with a goal from a free kick.

Brett Pitman’s volley and a delightful finish from Asa Philips had put the Rockies 3-1 ahead after the visitors had reduced arrears with an own goal, before Marcel Laptas netted a second for Hythe & Dibden to set up a tense finish.

Dom Pansear-Dower hit the bar and Ash Pope was just inches wide with an effort, before Jack Dickson cleared off the line late on to prevent Hythe & Dibden snatching a point.

YOUTH FOOTBALL

with a winning weight of 10lb 6oz, Jack was second with 9lb 9oz and Josiah third with 9lb 6oz. Jake, who started late, had an enjoyable evening with 5lb 14oz.

For more information go to ddasjuniors.co.uk; membership information www.d-das.com; fishery information at Revels Fishery and tackle shop on Facebook.

All kitted out

YOUNG footballers at Shaftesbury FC Under 12s have been presented with new kit at a player sign-ing event.

Sponsors Wiltshire Wood Flooring Supplies have provided smart new home and away kits, and train-ing jackets for the youngsters. Team manager Rob Lucas said: “We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Wiltshire Wood Flooring Supplies for their steadfast support.”

Competition winner Oliver Smith

Why is my pet drinking and weeing more?

by Lynn Broom Longmead Veterinary Practice

THERE are lots of reasons why your pet may drink and wee more than normal. This article will deal with primary increased drinking with or without urine changes. A second article in two weeks will cover dilute urine leading to increased drinking.

It is important to differentiate between increased drinking but normal urination and increased drinking and increased urinating. If your pet is drinking more you can get a urine sample checked to see if it is more dilute than normal. It is also possible for your pet to urinate more frequently but not produce any more urine than normal because of pain or behavioural causes.

Increased urine production can be due to drinking more or can cause increased drinking.

For instance, a dog drinking more due to a diet change will produce more urine which is more dilute than normal. A dog which cannot concentrate their urine due, for instance, to kidney disease, needs to drink more to replace the increased loss of water because their urine is dilute.

A dog which is drinking more but has a normal urine concentration may be panting more than normal. The increased water intake is lost in the breath. Increased panting can be due to high environmental temperatures, anxiety, breathing problems or pain.

Dogs cannot sweat and their only method of cooling down is to pant, which increases water evaporation from their breath. Anxious or scared dogs will pant more and, therefore, lose more moisture. Dogs which are

STUNNING BLACK KING CHARLES x ENGLISH SPRINGER

SPANIEL Puppy Bitch. 12 weeks old having to advertise due to time wasters. Full health check, 1st vaccination & microchipped.

£1,100.00. Tel or text - 07549 929403

in pain will often pant more –dogs with arthritis find activity more difficult and the increased effort causes increased panting. Reduced efficiency of breathing due to lung or heart disease or poor facial structure such as in brachycephalic dogs will lead to increased panting.

Dogs and cats which are licking more will lose more moisture and need to drink more. When an animal is itchy, such as due to an allergy or fleas, they will lick themselves a lot. Animals with joint or other localised sites of pain will often lick the affected area more than normal. Dogs and cats with full anal glands will often lick the general area more due to the discomfort – this can include back legs or their tail.

Some foods encourage drinking such as those designed to reduce urinary crystals and a change to one of these diets will increase water intake but will also increase urine production. An animal will drink more if it eats a dried food compared to a

WANTED OLDER SMALL DOG as companion for elderly lady. Good home guaranteed. 01258 480035

PET SCANNING AND MICROCHIPPING service

Fully insured. Contact Sarah on 07769 323429

wet food because the wet food contains much more fluid.

Animals with pain may urinate more frequently or leak urine even if their urine concentration is normal. This is common with cystitis where pain causes an increased desire to urinate despite there being little or no more urine to pass at that stage. Sexually entire male and female dogs will often scent mark, which is seen as frequent urinating often at places where other dogs have been.

Cats with cystitis, which is usually stress related, may urinate inappropriately in the house and may attempt to urinate more frequently. Stress in cats can also cause inappropriate scent marking. Entire male cats frequently scent mark and this is usually resolved with neutering.

Incontinence can develop where the animal is less aware that their bladder is full, such as due to spinal nerve damage, or less bladder control which sometimes happens following neutering mainly in bitches. These often respond well to medication. It is important to check that their urine is not dilute, however, because an over full bladder due to increased urine production can cause leaking.

In the next article I will discuss causes of dilute urine.

12 GUINEA FOWL for sale 07974 042589

BLUE ROAN SHOW COCKER PUPPIES looking for new homes. For more information ring 01202 715113

B&W MALE BORDER COLLIE. 10 weeks old. Excellent working lines but would suit an agility or pet home also. 07949 273364

WORKING COCKER PUPS small biddable strain. Both parents work. 2 girls left.

Alan 07394 643908

PHOTO: Manfred Richter/ Pixabay

MID DORSET BRANCH CATS PROTECTION Cats looking for new homes

Tip #47: Dogs and children II

by Helen Taylor

SPOTTING pre-aggressive signs of stress in your dog.

A dog that feels worried by an interaction with a child – or anyone else for that matter – is likely to do some or any of the following: lick their lips, show the whites of their eyes, yawn, turn their face away or do a ‘wet dog shake’ immediately after the interaction ends. They may have a closed mouth with the skin around their eyes and/or muzzle appearing tight or more wrinkled than usual. They may attempt to move away from the child or look at the parent with ‘pleading’ eyes. They may also lick the child’s face – a so-called ‘kiss to dismiss’ – or paw at the child – or even at the adult. As they feel increasingly threatened or unhappy they may also lower their body, head and/or tail and may even roll onto their side and raise one or two legs.

All of these behaviours are an attempt to avoid having to escalate to aggression and – when they are seen – it is vital that parents intervene immediately to ‘rescue’ the dog – and then try to prevent the situation recurring in the future. If this doesn’t happen, it is quite likely that aggression in some form will eventually follow. n Helen Taylor is a qualified, accredited behaviourist, a certified clinical animal behaviourist, a registered practitioner with the Animal Behaviour and Training Council and is a member of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors and the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (no 881). help@helentaylordorset.co.uk; www.helentaylordorset.co.uk

LOST

We also have kittens which will be looking for homes in the coming weeks – please get in touch to register your interest.

Outdoors cats looking for homes – farms, stables etc For details, please call our helpline on 01258 858644 or visit our website www.cats.org.uk/blandford.

If you have lost a cat, please contact us via our website, phone or Facebook. Please make sure we have a contact phone number so we can get in touch with you quickly if needed.

FOUND CATS

If you regularly see a cat in your garden or down your street that you don’t think has an owner, please give us a call – it might be a lost cat that could be reunited with its owner.

For

CATS

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

n Nicholas (four months). Slowly coming out of his shell. He is playful, gorgeous and will purr and purr

n Jerry (five months). A gorgeous, friendly, playful boy

n Lulu (three years). Sweet girl who is a little nervous but looking for a home in which she can blossom

n Larry (four months). A gentle, shy boy who will blossom once in a home

n Chester (eight years). Chester is a gorgeous, loving boy who looks to be in your company

Black fluffy cat missing since August 2 from Marnhull area.

Pets

RSPCA reports increase in cruelty to dogs

THEY may be man’s best friend – but cruelty towards dogs increased by 3% in Dorset last year, new figures released by the RSPCA show.

In 2022, 461 reports were made to the RSPCA in the area about cruelty to dogs, compared with 449 in 2021.

The figures include reports made about intentional harm, neglect and abandonments.

The type of incidents which come under intentional harm are attempted killing, poisoning, beating, improper killing, mutilation and suspicious circumstances.

Shockingly, 114 reports were made of intentional harm to dogs in Dorset.

Nationally, the number of reports made to the RSPCA about dogs – including intentional harm, neglect and abandonments – in 2022 was 42,690, a 7% increase from 2021 (39,797).

The charity has released the figures as part of its Cancel Out

Cruelty campaign, in a bid to raise funds to help its frontline rescue teams continue to save animals from cruelty and abuse.

Lewis Taylor, RSPCA chief inspector for Dorset, said: “For hundreds of years dogs have been known as man’s best friend – and if you share your home with one, you will know why, as they are such loyal and loving companions.

“But these awful statistics tell a different story. Dogs are the most abused animal in this country and we investigate more complaints about them than any other type of animal.

“Everyone who cares about animals will be sickened to know how many reports we receive about dogs being kicked, beaten, burned or worse. We need the public’s help to Cancel Out Cruelty.

“Their donations, no matter how small, help keep our frontline officers out on the road rescuing animals and investigating these terrible

BUSYPETZ

EVERYTHING FOR OUR FURRY FRIENDS

Food for our furry family members, cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, birds. Grain-free, vegetarian, frozen, gluten & sugar-free chews, natural treats. Soft toys, leather toys, leads & collars, coats, cool & heat pads, veterinary bedding, shampoo, towels... even microchipping!

Come and browse with a friendly chat... and if you don’t see what you want please ask!

“Ever y time we ’ re anywhere near Busypetz, Pebbles takes me to lovely Vanessa ” Anja C

reports.”

The figures released by the RSPCA also show:

n In 2022 the charity saw a 22% increase in reports of beatings (9,658 in 2022, compared to 7,857 in 2021)

n The number of animals killed in ‘suspicious circumstances’ increased in 2022 by 15% from by 2021 (891 in 2022, compared to 775 in 2021)

n 77% of all cruelty complaints reported to the charity 2022 were beatings

Dermot Murphy, RSPCA inspectorate commissioner, said: “Right now, animal cruelty is happening in England and

Wales on a massive scale and rising. It is heartbreaking that we are seeing such sad figures which show animal cruelty is, very sadly, on the rise.

“While we don’t know for certain why there has been an increase, the cost-of-living crisis and the post-pandemic world we live in has created an animal welfare crisis.

“The cost-of-living crisis also means the cost of rescuing animals is at an all-time high and our vital services are stretched to the limit.”

To help support the RSPCA, visit www.rspca.org. uk/cruelty

Ban on Amercian Bully XL dogs being considered

THE Government is considering a ban on the American Bully XL dog breed after reports of a number of attacks involving the animal.

Home Secretary Suella Braverman has said she is taking ‘urgent advice’ on whether the breed can be added ot the current list of banned dogs in the UK.

Friday 9am to 5.30pm & Saturday 8am to 1pm. oad Robin, Gillingham SP8 4PJ, opposite the Onestop Parking ailable. Email: enquiries@busypetz.co.uk w.busypetz.co.uk Facebook: Busypetz

Currently, four breeds have been banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. They are the American pit bull terrier, the Japanese tosa, the Dogo Argentinos and the Fila

Brazileiro.

The law gives the government the power to ban breeds appearing ‘to be bred for fighting or to have the characteristics of a type bred for that purpose’.

News of an attack, reportedly involving an American Bully XL, surfaced on Sunday.

In response, the Home Secretary said the breed was a ‘clear and lethal danger’.

However, because the breed is not specifically recognised by the Kennel Club in the UK, banning it could be difficult.

The animal charity has released new figures in support of its Cancel Out Cruelty campaign to help rescue teams continue their work

CLASSIFIED ADS

2 TRADITIONAL CHURCH

PEWS, 12ft long. £190 Each.

Mob 07397 558553

MAGIMIX FOOD

PROCESSOR 420 model with extra attachments. £95 VGC. 01747 852310. Motcombe

KYMCO MIDI-XLS

MOBILITY SCOOTER for sale - blue; 3 years old, vgc, careful owner, dvla road registered, 4-8 mph, battery chargers and owners manual (new £2000+) £850. 01258 471493

OAK KITCHEN WITH GRANITE WORKTOPS. Excellent condition. £1,000 07588 053555

MEILE oven. £295

MEILE steam oven. £295

MEILE dishwasher. £100

MEILE gas hob. £75 07588 053555

GALVANISED CATTLE TROUGHS, old fountains, bird baths, terracotta items and ‘stone’ planters, sun dial etc.

Tel eves 01747 820541

ELECTRIC BIKE.

WISPER 905 with cross bar, 26” wheels.Excellent condition, little used due to illness. Best Offer on £500 secures, (new, £1, 300) Viewing welcome, nr Tisbury. 07836 329441

YAHAMA PORTABLE GRAND KEYBOARD

DGX230 £150, 01963-371381

ELDDIS AVANTE TWO BERTH CARAVAN. 2012. Bargain at £5,000. 01258 454873

CLEAR VIEW WOOD BURNING STOVE £160. Large selection of cabinet maker tools. excellent condition. 01935 872876

FREE CLASSIFIED ADS

COLOURFUL SQUARE PLATE for Victoria’s 1887 Jubilee. Good con. £20. Ring 01202 525285

CIRCULAR VARNISHED PINE

TABLE - 35 “ wide. vgc. £25. 01747 858219

2 NEW DASH CAMS £25 each please call on 01963 240490 after 6pm

FLY FISHING ROD SPORTFISH IM6

10ft 7-8wt. Rod 3 piece & cloth bag. £30. 01747 840473

FLY FISHING REEL AIRFLO SWITCH

7/9 wt. complete with 4 spare spools and case. £30. 01747 840473

5 DEMIJOHNS with airlocks and bungs. Chickerell, Weymouth. £50. Mobile: 07393 945451

HEATED MASSAGE MAT, used once. £50. 01747 853913

TWO VICTORIAN METAL STEAMER trunks with brass fittings. One 77x 45x 32 one 64x 32x 22 £20 each. 01258 818259

VACUUM CLEANER. Sebo upright. Anti-allergy. Hospital grade. £50. Tolpuddle. 01305 849490

SHORT MAT BOWLS MAT med/ fast good condition £50 donation to Charity Tel 07989 455750

BOSCH LEAF BLOWER, excellent condition, hardly used. £45. Tel: 01935 872459

COAL EFFECT ELECTRIC FIRE with dark wooden surround, cream marble back and base. Very good condition.£50 Tel. 01258 473234

LARGE COCKATIEL CAGE With Stand. Very Good Condition. £45 ono. 07895 776919

Items for sale

TRADITIONAL DEAL ANTIQUE kitchen table with drawer, 4’ x 3’. £50. Tel: 01458 831267.

ORIGINAL VINTAGE USAF STAFF sergeant shirt. Olive green. Size med/ large. Excellent condition. £45. 07905 543675

GARDENER’S COMBINED Kneeler and Stool. Home and Garden. Unopened in box, £15. Tel: 07731 843743

CHAMAEROPS HUMALIS pot grown 15 years old big heavy £50 buyer collects call 01963 824376

WIRE STOCKFENCING

(ArcelorMittal) C8/80/15 6inch (150mm) gap, good quality approx 26 metres unused £20 Tel:07891 987809

1950’S BABY COT, solid but in need of some fresh paint! Free to new home. 07899 067708

40 PAPERBACK ROMANCE

BOOKS various authors including 8 by Danielle Steel read but good condition job lot £15 01747 823921 (evenings)

LADIES BOOTS DARK BROWN size 6 £30. 01747 852310. Motcombe

FREEZER BEKO, frost free, almost new condition £50. Height 145cm x 54cm wide, drawers and fast freeze section. 07402 648516

LADIES BIKE, 5 Gears with, Wheel Guards, Good Condition £25. Gillingham 01747 824240

GOLF CLUBS. FAIRWAY SERIES

5, 7 & 9. £10 each. 01935 476815

COMPLETE DVD set of game of throne seasons 1-3. Brand new. £10. 01747 229148

BUILDING STONE MIXED. £45/ton. 01747 840835

SAGEN FREESAT+ RECORDER

VGC. HDMI. £20. 07923 113072

GARDEN INCINERATOR, large compost bin, free, buyer to collect 01258-820908 (Marnhull)

HIGH BACK RECLINER SWIVEL

CHAIR Colour: grey mist

Good condition. £50. 01980 862832

GENTS RALEIGH BICYCLE 3 speed

Sturmey Archer gears.60/70’s good working order £50 ono 01305 267960

SOLID WOOD 140 by 80 cm table and four matching chairs golden oak finish in very good condition £49. Mobile 07751 016907

MENS NEW M&S REAL SUEDE MOCCASIN SLIPPERS. Navy blue / brown furry lined. Size 8. Was £27.50 Accept £17. 01935 851076

BCE RONNIE O’SULLIVAN

2 piece snooker cue as new £20. Berghaus 25L rucksack £10

07765 800413

EUMIG MARK 502D CINE

PROJECTOR for Standard 8mm,Super 8 and Single 8 cine films

Good working order £35 ono Tel 01305 267960

TWO BOXES OLD RECORDS-45rpm/etc-price-£5 a box(phone-01935 873441)

NEW 34”X26” WOOD JIG-SAW puzzle table, detachable legs. Baize top. £30. Tel: 01935 507375

18 HARDBACK BOOKS. Kings and Queens of England. William the Conqueror to Edward VII. £25. Tony 07598 982824

ADJUSTABLE PROTECTIVE motorcross/motorcycle boots. Size 12. Good condition. £40 ono.

07380 425338

UNUSED SHOWHOME KING SIZE fire resistant bed base only. Collection only from Yeovil. £50. Plus one other available

LAUREL (PRUNUS) 1.6m. New. £20 - 01935 812617

WOODEN 8 PANE WINDOWS x 6. 26” x 38” free to collect 01747 853942

BOOTS BABYWAY umbrella-type pushchair, good condition. £25.00. Tel 01935 426816

CHARLIE BEAR, Woody, No CB151559. Year 2015. As New £35 Tel: 01963 33160

RED SEBO AUTOMATIC x7 upright vacuum cleaner. Tools/spare bags. Good condition. £50. 01747 855376

SINGER SEWING MACHINE. Electric. £15. 01258 817874

OLD MAHOGANY TILT-TOP TABLE on pyramid base with 3 feet. £49. Tel: 07563 677169

NEST OF TABLES dark oak £15 01258 450233

METAL OUTDOOR TABLE & 4 matching chairs, no rust 78x78cm. £45. 07968 535444

RIDING BOOTS, CALF LENGTH black rubber, hardly used. Size 41 (zipped) and Size 45. £15 each pair. Call 07402 648516

DOUBLE METAL BED FRAME with mattress and covers. All excellent condition £45. Tel: 01935 389647

VINTAGE FISHER PRICE play people, camper van ,play park, furniture ,nursery etc over 100 items £20 lot 01747 835680

FOOTBALL PROGRAMMES WANTED Ideally pre-1970 07854 194875

RETIREE REQUIRES SMALL CAR. low milage around 7000. Selling by person giving up driving advantageous. 07719 642285

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

WANTED All militaria bought. British/Foreign Single items or collections . Contact Tim on 07904 082997

GUNS WANTED FOR CASH

ALSO GUNS FOR SALE

SOS to all air rifles and pistols, any make or model, any condition. We collect in any area.

Top prices paid in cash.

07970 742471

Field & Stream

Fun and games ‘dagging’ the sheep

by Tria Stebbing

THE weather this summer has kept us all on our toes and taken us all by surprise by delivering a flaming September.

Having treated the sheep for flystrike early in the season, we have just had to treat them again.

The risk to the flock is huge, especially if the weather breaks down with a storm –hot, wet and humid conditions make it playtime for the flies, and we are hearing reports daily of fallen sheep.

The sheep seemed to sense I was hot and not relishing rounding them up to ‘dag’ them – trim their bottoms – and treat them again – even the lure of ginger biscuits was not enough to get them to move from under their favourite tree.

I started with the ewes and lambs, who enjoyed the extra biscuits while I drenched their fleeces with treatment liquid.

We had a case of flystrike a few years ago. The lamb in question was fine when checked in the evening, showing no flies at all, but by lunchtime the following day it had passed, covered in flies and maggots.

Counting sheep, not just at bedtime but every time you check them, is essential. The only way to be really sure is to do a headcount – at least if one is missing you can start the search, and while it probably has its head through the stock fence, you can never be sure.

The rams made life a bit more difficult, in their own field. Hormones are clearly gearing up a notch and they took one look at me with my loaded medicine gun and legged it.

More ginger biscuits brought the two youngest shearlings over, King and Keiser, who were drenched, but the huge, big boy rams remained elusive, keeping away.

Our boy Humphrey made tentative steps and got close enough for me to squirt the liquid at him, covering his rump, at which point I wondered why I had not thought about using a water pistol.

The others stayed away, by which time, with a scarlet face and bordering on heat stroke, I gave up. My theory being if I can’t catch the little blighters, can a fly?

Sebastian the Highland bull has the flies in his face, and we managed to put some

‘Field of Dreams’ project to entice white storks

A SCHEME to help boost numbers of white storks in the UK has been given permission in Dorset – but needs funding to get off the ground.

Planning permission has

been granted for four ‘stork towers’ on land at Bere Marsh Farm, near Blandford, in a bid to help the species – which has recently begun to breed in the UK again after an absence of 600 years.

Now, the Countryside Regeneration Trust (CRT) is seeking sponsorship to help finance the Dorset project.

The towers cost £1,500 each and are part of the CRT’s plans to create a showcase

spot-on on him, but he continues to swish away with his tail keeping them away.

He has become a bit of a pickle, clearly looking for more fun than Valentine can give him, and started to up-end a wooden picnic bench each day.

We made the mistake of removing it, so he started on the boundary fence. You live and learn.

We put his dating profile online and next weekend are off to look at a lady for him. Apparently docile and the same age, she looks a keeper, in which case, if all goes to plan, we shall await the patter of little hooves next summer.

publicity as the project develops.

regenerative farm and education centre at the 92-acre farm.

The CRT said the towers –made up of a telegraph pole with a galvanised steel basket – would be erected on floodplain fields next to the River Stour, an ideal site for white stork to settle.

And the group said any local business willing to sponsor a £1,500 tower would receive its name and logo on the tower and be included in any ongoing

“This is very much a Field of Dreams project where, like in the film, we have faith that if we build the ‘ballpark’ they will come,” said Hayley Neal, the CRT’s head of development.

“The white stork is such an emblematic species that to have them nesting in Dorset really would be incredible.

“We are looking for sponsors who want to share this dream and help us create the right environment for the white storks to arrive.”

Businesses which would like to sponsor a tower can find out more at www.thecrt.co.uk

Sebastian the Highland bull could soon be getting a lady friend

Dairy farmers under threat

BRITAIN’S dairy farmers are being forced to think seriously about their future due to concerns over insufficient returns, volatile markets and the scale of on-farm investment, a new NFU survey shows.

The survey of nearly 600 dairy farmers’ intentions reveals 9% of producers believe they are likely to stop producing milk by 2025 – up from 7% last year. A further 23% said they were ‘unsure’ if their business would continue producing milk beyond 2025.

87% of dairy farmers who responded said they are concerned about the impact of government regulation, with

feed prices (84%), energy prices (83%) and cash flow and profitability (80%) other factors that would curtail milk supplies.

Meanwhile, 91% of dairy farmers said the main factor to them increasing milk production would be the scale of investment needed for things such as suitable slurry storage to ensure their farms are compliant – this supports the NFU call for Defra’s Slurry Infrastructure Grant to be extended to cover more areas and to lower the minimum spend threshold needed to access the funding.

NFU dairy board chair Michael Oakes said: “It’s clear that significant inflationary

pressures combined with below cost of production prices are continuing to put the resilience of British dairy farming businesses under threat. We are now facing a crisis of confidence among Britain’s dairy farmers.

“The results of this survey show that, now more than ever, we need resilient and collaborative dairy supply chains. It’s vital we reverse this trend of boom or bust and invest in our supply chains. New industry-wide regulation on contracts, expected to be introduced later this year, must support fairer, more transparent and accountable supply chains.

But regulation isn’t a silver bullet.

“With increasing global demand for British dairy, we know the long-term future is bright for our sector. To ensure we maximise this potential, it’s imperative that government continues to work with us to ensure we have the right environmental, regulatory and trade framework in place to support the production of high quality, nutritious and sustainable food.”

Young farmer bursaries now available

AGRICULTURE students in the South West could get extra funding to support their studies by applying for a Cornish Mutual Young Farmer Bursary.

The bursaries comprise the Higher Education Bursary of £750, open to any student studying an agriculture-based Level 5 or 6 course at University Centre Somerset and Duchy College.

For those studying a Level 1-3 agriculture-based course at Bicton College,

Bridgwater & Taunton College (Cannington Campus), Duchy College or Kingston Maurward College, the Further Education Bursary of £500 is available.

In each category, one bursary is awarded per college and students must be enrolled to study during the 2023-2024 academic year.

“The bursaries form a key part of our Future Farming Programme and support talented young farmers,” says Peter Beaumont, Cornish Mutual Managing

Director. “We encourage any student with an enthusiasm for agriculture to apply for a Cornish Mutual Young Farmer Bursary and look forward to celebrating the passionate young people who are the future of British agriculture.”

Entries open on September 8 and close at midnight on November 5. To find out more and to apply, visit www.cornishmutual.co. uk/future-farming-programme/youngfarmer-bursaries.

WALKING AND TALKING TO HELP MENTAL WELLBEING

Talking is central to better mental wellbeing Cornish Mutual’s Future Farming Programme discovered when investigating the importance of good mental health, and walking can also help.

Having first-hand experience of poor mental health brought about by the isolation felt by many farmers, Nuffield Scholar Chris Manley launched the #walkwithme campaign. It aims to improve wellbeing through walking and talking to encourage more open conversations.

“A daily walk really helps me,” said Chris. “#walkwithme is about creating time and space for a regular walk and talk.

It certainly plays an important role in my mental health journey.”

For some, talking with friends or family can be enough. But for those looking for more support, talking therapy offers another option, according to Ellie Sturrock.

Ellie is a Dorset-based talking therapies practitioner but also a sheep farmer, so is uniquely placed to understand mental wellbeing among those working in agriculture.

“One of the biggest threats to mental health in farming is uncertainty,” said Ellie. “From politics, compliance and trade deals to the weather and disease, so much in farming feels out of your control, and this can make life difficult.

“The most important thing is recognising when you, or someone you know, needs extra support and knowing what options are available.”

For more information on talking therapies and the #walkwithme campaign, plus all Cornish Mutual’s latest industry insights on topics at the forefront of farming today, visit: https://www.cornishmutual.co.uk/cmfuturefarming

(Top) Ellie Sturrock & (Bottom) Chris Manley

Rural crime report

NFU Mutual’s 2023 Rural Crime report reveals that crime cost the South West £5 million last year, up by almost a fifth (16.6%) from 2021.

GPS units, quad bikes and ATVs were among the top targets for rural thieves, while the UK cost of livestock theft rose 8.7% in 2022, totalling an estimated £2.7m. Fuel theft doubled as well.

Phoebe Ridley from NFU Mutual in the South West said: “Highly-organised gangs are causing disruption to farming and widespread concern to people in the countryside.

“Rural theft is changing. It is not only opportunist thieves travelling a few miles, we are now seeing internationally organised criminal activity. Gangs target high-value farm machinery and GPS kits because they can be sold worldwide.

“Many items are stolen ‘to

order’ by thieves using online technology to identify where farm machinery is stored and scope out the best way to steal it. They will also spend hours watching the movement of farming families to work out the best time to attack.

“Loss of vital machinery and GPS equipment causes huge disruption to farmers who are already stretched to the limit.”

The NFU raises the issue of rural crime with politicians, the police and local authorities. It recently worked with MPs and peers to guide the Equipment Theft (Prevention) Bill through Parliament. The Act will give the Home Secretary new powers to make regulations that deter the theft and resale of quads and ATVs.

The NFU advises fitting your ATVs with immobilisers and forensic markings and registering your details on a database to deter criminals.

D CONIO COUNTRYSIDE SERVICES

General farm/ Countryside maintenance. Work including Fencing/ Digger

Work/ Welding and Fabricating. Call David on 07813 835678

WANTED, BARNS WITH OR WITHOUT grazing for rare breed stock

Stourhead/Frome/ Bruton/Wincanton/ Gillingham areas. 07866 417777 07917 443380 01985 844795

SHIPPING CONTAINERS FOR SALE

Tel: 01258 472288.

Mob: 07977 936109

New and second hand containers - blue/greenall with box locks

TOPPING AND HAULAGE

Flail Hedge trimming

All types of fencing

Tel: 01747 855198

KEEN YOUNG FARM are looking for winter housing for cattle or land to out winter cattle for on please call Harry on 07806 751 845

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

EVERY WEDNESDAY SALE OF FAT CATTLE, CULL COWS . DAIRY CATTLE & CALVES. PRIME, CULL AND STORE SHEEP.

EVERY FRIDAY – SALE OF STORE CATTLE

WEDNESDAY 20th SEPTEMBER

FORTNIGHTLY SALE OF PIGS

SALE OF BREEDING EWES, RAMS & STORE LAMBS

FRIDAY 22nd SEPTEMBER

SPECIAL SALE OF SUCKLER COWS - ENTRIES TO DATE

26 Pure & Pedigree Charolais Cows with Spring Calves

25 Hereford, Angus & B/Blue Cows with Spring Calves

WEDNESDAY 27th SEPTEMBER

FORTNIGHTLY SALE OF REARED CALVES

MONDAY 16th OCTOBER

MONTHLY SALE OF TB RESTRICED CATTLE LICENSES MUST BE OBTAINED ONE WEEK BEFORE SALE

ADVICE ON ALL

07921 929891

info@dorsettractors.com

07590 116 017

Dorset Tractors is a family run Agricultural Engineering Provider with over 40 years experience in the trade catering for Modern, Classic & Vintage Machinery. Father and Son founders Martin & Sam Percy decided to join forces after Martin having worked in the industry for 40 Years and Sam having spent 12 years in HM Forces wanted to make a go of it for themselves. Based in the centre of Dorset they offer servicing and repairs on all major makes of Agricultural Machinery.

“We provide a serious alternative to main dealers when it comes to repairing your equipment and we pride ourselves on being able to offer the adaptability and affordability that our customers are looking for without compromising on quality. Our guiding principles are Professional, Personal, Proper!”

DORSET | DEVON | SOMERSET | HAMPSHIRE | WILTSHIRE | CORNWALL | LONDON

Limington, Yeovil

128.86 acres (52.15 hectares) of productive arable and pasture land with far reaching views across adjoining countryside. For sale by Informal Tender in two lots. Lot A – 41.64 acres (16.85 ha) Guide £500,000. Lot B – 87.22 acres (35.30 ha) Guide £800,000 Freehold

Lucy Carnell | 01935 382901

Friday 15th September 2023 at 11.00am Lawn Farm, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5NB

Spetisbury, Blandford

Guide £70,000

A parcel of permanent pasture extending to 3.07 acres (1.24 ha), situated in the popular village of Spetisbury between Blandford Forum and Wimborne Minster suitable for a variety of uses. Freehold.

Morgan Clement | 01202 882103

ON-SITE AUCTIONS

Dispersal of Combine, 2 Tractors, Telehandler, Land Rover, Farm Machinery & Poultry Houses

Saturday 23rd September 2023 at 10.30am Sherfield English, Romsey

Collective Sale of Vintage Car, Tractors, Farm Machinery, etc.

To include: 1923 Bean 4 Car, Massey Ferguson 5711M with Loader, Valtra T131, International B275, MF500 Series Tractor, Teagle Straw Blower, Welger RP435 Round Baler, Folding Chain Harrows, etc. Further entries welcome.

Tuesday 3rd October 2023 at 11am

Preston Farm, Tarrant Rushton, Blandford, Dorset DT11 9JQ

Dispersal of 3 Combines, 5 Tractors, Self-Propelled Sprayer, Telehandler, Arable & Livestock Equipment, Workshop items and Miscellaneous

On behalf of Harding Farms Partnership - Further details in due course.

Online Bidding Available Contact Yeovil | 01935 382909

Auction 19 October

Informal Tender 11 October

COLLECTIVE PROPERTY AUCTION | 21 SEPTEMBER | SHERBORNE

Colehill Guide £25,000

A former scout hut in about 0.06 acres providing scope for a range of uses (STPP/covenant consent). Freehold Wimborne | 01202 843190

Sherborne Guide £185,000

A deceptively spacious mixed-use property located in the heart of Sherborne on Cheap Street. EPC Band G; Freehold Sherborne | 01935 814488

Dewlish Guide £100,000

A building plot in a peaceful village location with full planning permission for a detached holiday cottage. Freehold Blandford | 01258 452670

Henstridge Guide £210,000

A well-proportioned 3 bedroom end of terrace property with parking and a good sized garden. EPC Band F; CTB C; Freehold Sherborne | 01935 814488

Corfe Mullen Guide £165,000

A former 2 bedroom annexe with Class E use utilised as an office with scope for a range of uses (STPP). EPC TBC; RV £4,650; Freehold Wimborne | 01202 843190

Cranborne Guide £225,000

A character property for refurbishment and possible extension (STPP/consents) in 0.36 acres. EPC Band E; CTB D; Freehold Wimborne | 01202 843190

Holworth Guide £225,000

A unique off-grid 2 bedroom mid-terrace former coastguard cottage with spectacular sea views. EPC Band F; CTB B; Freehold Dorchester | 01305 261008

Higher Ansty Guide £250,000

A charming, attached 3 bedroom cottage with a private garden, situated in a sought-after village. EPC Band D; CTB D; Freehold Sturminster | 01258 473766

Shillingstone Guide £275,000

A delightful 3 bedroom detached cottage in need of modernisation with large gardens of about 0.32 acres. EPC Exempt; CTB F; Freehold Sturminster | 01258 473766

Blandford Guide £275,000

A substantial 3 bedroom property with scope for remodelling in an elevated position on a favoured road. EPC Band D; CTB E; Freehold Blandford | 01258 452670

Morcombelake Guide £325,000

A 2 bedroom timber bungalow in need of restoration in an elevated position with views to the sea. EPC Band G; CTB C; Freehold Bridport | 01308 4220928

Lyme Regis Guide £500,000

A fantastic seafront refurbishment or redevelopment opportunity comprising a 3-storey house. EPC Band F; CTB D; Freehold Axminster | 01297 33122

Iwerne Minster

Guide £275,000

Constructed in 2004, this well-presented mews-style 2 bedroom property forms part of the exclusive Home Farm development, built specifically for over 55s. CTB D; EPC D; Freehold

Sturminster 01258 473766

Fifehead St Quintin

Guide £875,000

A most charming, reconfigured and extended 5 bedroom house in beautiful Dorset countryside with fine views and stunning gardens of about 0.75 acres. CTB F; EPC F; Freehold

Sturminster 01258 473766

Sherborne

Guide £267,500

A beautifully presented, 2 bedroom with attic room, end of terrace home, situated within walking distance of the town centre. CTB B; EPC D; Freehold

Sherborne 01935 814488

Piddletrenthide

Guide £550,000

A substantial detached house with 5 bedrooms within the much loved Piddle Valley situated on a spacious plot of in all 0.6 acres, with ample parking to the front. CTB D; EPC E; Freehold

Dorchester 01305 261008

by 72 acres of pasture and meadow

LOT 1

Springfield House: Hall, drawing room, dining room, sitting room, kitchen / breakfast room, larder, utility room, boot room, boiler room, tack room, farm office / playroom & 2 WCs

Galleried landing, principal bedroom with en-suite bathroom, 4 further bedrooms, 2 further bathrooms

Integrated annex with 2 further bedrooms, bathroom, kitchenette, family room

Charming, landscaped gardens & grounds with terraces and long reaching views

Swimming pool, tennis court (in need of repair), vegetable garden

Stable courtyard with 10 loose boxes, feed room, hay barn, workshop and artist’s studio

Further foaling boxes, menage, post & railed paddocks, copse

About 23.79 acres

LOT 2 4 bedroom Lodge House

In all about 0.81 acres

LOT 3

About 47 acres of pasture & meadow land adjoining the River Stour

In all about 72 acres

Bugley, Dorset Guide Price £4,000,000 (as a whole)

Mark Lewis | 01258 473766 mlewis@symondsandsampson co.uk

Charlie Stone | 01747 442500 cs@ruralview co.uk

Wylye, Wiltshire Guide Price £1,875,000

A superbly renovated mill house with beautiful grounds on the banks of the River Wylye. 4 Receptions, Large Kitchen/Breakfast Room, First floor Drawing Room, 5 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, in all 2.8 acres.

Motcombe, Dorset Guide Price £950,000

A unique and cleverly extended edge of village period house. 3 Receptions, Kitchen/Breakfast room, Sunroom, 4 Bedrooms, 2 ensuite shower rooms, family bathroom. Double carport with studio accommodation. Gardens.

A charming, extended 4 bed period cottage in a lovely rural village setting in the beautiful Deverill Valley with bags of character and offering good living space.

Hindon,

A most appealing extended Listed period cottage situated in a sought-after historic village with garden and range of outbuildings.

The

Guide price £550,000

A beautifully renovated converted Chapel situated in a tranquil and popular hamlet with a pretty garden.

Tisbury, Wiltshire Guide price £425,000

A well presented detached modern family home offering versatile accommodation and far-reaching views, edge of village location. EPC D

Green, East Knoyle, Wiltshire

Brixton Deverill, Wiltshire. OIEO £695,000

Wiltshire. Guide price £599,950

Auction Guide: £250,000

South Molton Office: 01769 574500 residential.southmolton@gth.net

SALEAGREED

BRACKEN LODGE, HOPCOTT ROAD, MINEHEAD

A spacious and flexible four bedroom period house which offers a wellappointed and versatile living space with a delightful garden to the front & two driveways.

Auction Guide: £300,000

Minehead Office: 01643 706666 residential.minehead@gth.net

PROPERTY & LAND AUCTION

Scan

An attractive block of gently sloping and in part level lying pasture land with far reaching views, being 12.04 acres (4.87 ha) in total, just off the crest of the hill with direct access onto Hare Lane.

Auction Guide: £120,000

Chard Office: 01460 238 383 farms.chard@gth.net

Auction Guide: £25,000 Taunton Office: 01823 277121 residential.taunton@gth.net

COLD HARBOUR FARM, MEARE ROAD, GLASTONBURY

A site with planning permission for the erection of a four bedroom detached dwelling, together with pasture land, located on the outskirts of Glastonbury. In total, the property extends to approximately 4.96 acres.

Auction Guide: £375,000

Wells Office: 01749 605605

residential.wells@gth.net

10 EAST STREET, WEST COKER, YEOVIL

A 2 bedroom Grade II cottage set away from the main road in need of overall improvement. The front garden is enclosed by pretty Hamstone walling and rear gardens comprising a courtyard, raised beds and borders, with on street parking.

Auction Guide: £125,000

Yeovil Office: 01935 415300 residential.yeovil@gth.net

LOT 1 - LAND OFF HARE LANE, BUCKLAND ST. MARY, CHARD

A stunningly located pasture land with direct access to the public highway, measuring 6.77 acres (2.74 ha) in total with far reaching panoramic views

Auction Guide: £75,000

Chard Office: 01460 238 383 farms.chard@gth.net

Three parcels of level permanent pasture land at King’s Sedgemoor extending to approximately 21.31 acres (8.66 ha) or thereabouts. The land benefits from direct road access onto the A361 (Greylake Road).

Auction Guide: £80,000

Redhill Office: 0117 203 5577 robert.baker@gth.net

A two storey mixed use property offering a variety of potential uses currently providing Class E Use, the accommodation on the ground floor comprises two sales areas, ancillary retail area, kitchen and WC facilities whilst the first floor is split into two store rooms. The existing fit out provides 8 hairdressing stations and 3 hair washing stations.

Auction Guide: £85,000

Yeovil Office: 01935 423474

THE CAVALIERS, BARNSTAPLE STREET, WINKLEIGH

A charming three bedroom detached cottage with planning permission granted & LBC consent for a two storey extension, nestled within its own grounds with rural views. Now offering an opportunity to renovate this character property. In all extending to about 0.25 acre.

FORMER RAILWAY YARD, OUTWOOD, TAUNTON

A former railway yard comprising an area of concrete and hard standing, and within the undergrowth is believed to be the old platforms. The land could suit a number of alternative uses subject to the necessary consents or could be left to natures way to create a haven for wildlife, flora and fauna. In all about 4.95 acres.

LOT 2 – LAND OFF HARE LANE, BUCKLAND ST. MARY, CHARD

21.31 ACRES OF LAND AT GREYLAKE ROAD, MIDDLEZOY, BRIDGWATER

CLASSIC LINES, CASTLE CARY

PROPERTY & LAND AUCTION

WEDNESDAY 27TH SEPTEMBER 2023 AT 2PM AT THE SHRUBBERY HOTEL, STATION ROAD, ILMINSTER, TA19 9AR

Scan code for further details

Detached bungalow requiring modernisation throughout, small range of versatile outbuildings, orchard and pasture land offering an exciting opportunity for redevelopment. In total the property extends to 2.76 acres (1.12 Ha) or thereabouts.

Auction Guide: £425,000

Yeovil Office: 01935 423474 farms.yeovil@gth.net

LAND AT CARY FITZPAINE, YEOVIL

A single enclosure of gently undulating arable land occupying a well located position, adjoining the A37. The land extends to 12.30 acres (4.98 hectares) or thereabouts and is enclosed by broadleaf hedgerows. The land is currently cropped with winter wheat and will be left to stubble upon completion.

Auction Guide: £125,000

Yeovil Office: 01935 423474 farms.yeovil@gth.net

An opportunity to purchase a level area of amenity land in market town of Yeovil and comprises a single enclosure of level garden land. Within the enclosure are three redundant timber sheds, a greenhouse and pond, with vehicular access from Lyde Road. In total extending to 0.30 acres (0.12 ha).

Auction Guide: £20,000

Yeovil Office: 01935 423474 farms.yeovil@gth.net

CURLOAD VINEYARD, STOKE ST. GREGORY, TAUNTON

A delightful level area of land with a well established vineyard together with small coppice and amenity pasture land with the principal access taken off the Curload Village Road and secondary access off Stanmoor Mead Drove. Planning permission has been granted for a timber clad and corrugated roof welfare cabin extending to 6.8m x 3.1m. In total extending to 5.42 acres.

Auction Guide: £120,000

Langport Office: 01458 250000 mark.walters@gth.net

A spacious three bedroom semi-detached house, requiring modernisation throughout. A pretty mature garden to the front and the rear garden is mainly lawn, pretty mature well stocked boarders with shrubs, flowers and trees. A central path leads to the rear of the garden and a block built shed.

Auction Guide: £240,000 Minehead Office: 01643 706666 residential.minehead@gth.net

A single enclosure of permanent pasture, for sale as a whole. In total extending to approximately 0.30 acres (0.13 hectares).

Auction Guide: £10,000

Sedgemoor Office: 01278 410250 farms.sedgemoor@gth.net

LAND AT KEINTON MANDEVILLE, SOMERTON

A block of four enclosures of commercial farmland, currently down to pasture, for sale as a whole. In total extending to approximately 30.34 acres (12.29 hectares).

Auction Guide: £250,000

Sedgemoor Office: 01278 410250 farms.sedgemoor@gth.net

27

Occupying a peaceful country location in the picturesque hamlet of Benville offering purchasers the opportunity to acquire a character 18th century farm cottage requiring modernisation. The cottage is Grade II listed and retains many original features.

Auction Guide: £300,000

Dorchester Office: 01305 268786

residential.dorchester@gth.net

TRIWAYS, FOLDHILL LANE, MARTOCK

LAND AT CROMWELL ROAD, YEOVIL

1 POUNDFIELD ROAD, MINEHEAD

LAND AT WILLITON, TAUNTON

BENVILLE LANE, CORSCOMBE, DORCHESTER

BRUTON

£294,000 Wincanton

A spacious four bedroom semi-detached house benefiting from a two storey extension which has created an additional bedroom, downstairs shower room, utility room and large kitchen/diner perfect for everyday family life and entertaining. Spacious sitting room, bathroom, private rear garden and off road parking. EPC Rating: D. Freehold.

Thinking of moving?

We require more properties to meet the demand from buyers looking for a home in Wincanton, Bruton, Castle Cary, Mere, Stalbridge, Milborne Port and the surrounding villages.. If you are considering bringing your property to the market we would be delighted to provide you with a free market assessment and valuation.

NEW INSTRUCTION

Please call 01963 34000 to arrange an appointment or email wincanton@hambledon.net

£225,000

WINCANTON £226,500

and en-suite. Spacious lounge/diner, fitted kitchen, private garden, garage and no forward chain. EPC Rating: C.

NEW INSTRUCTION

WINCANTON £145,000

An exceptionally well presented four bedroom detached house overlooking a green on a modern development. The huge open plan kitchen/family room is a particular feature creating a wonderful social space. Light and airy sitting

An attractive two bedroom mid terrace house situated in a small close on a mature development. Spacious sitting room, kitchen/diner, bathroom, easy to maintain garden, allocated parking, ideal investment or first time buy. EPC Rating: C.

An exceptionally well presented three bedroom semi-detached house with stunning far reaching views over Wincanton and countryside beyond. Sitting room, stylish fitted kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite shower room, cloakroom, driveway and garage alongside property, landscaped garden. EPC Rating: C.

WINCANTON £179,950

A spacious two bedroom semi-detached house situated on a popular residential development. The property is presented in excellent order and enjoys the benefit of a car port, long driveway, enclosed garden, sitting room, fitted kitchen, conservatory and potential to extend (STPP). EPC Rating: D.

Wincanton 01963 34000 Shaftesbury 01747 851151

Hamlet Lettings

01963 34006

room, master bedroom with en-suite, stylish bathroom and landscaped garden with sunken hot tub. EPC Rating: B. Freehold.

£440,000 Wincanton

£925,000 North Cheriton

A four bedroom detached house with a substantial self contained annexe perfect for multi-generational living and potential to link the annexe by a small extension to create a large family home. Set in 1.22 acres of gardens and paddock enjoying stunning far reaching countryside views, summer house and generous off road parking. EPC Rating: E. Freehold.

£455,000 Wincanton

A delightful semi-detached house enjoying an open plan living area on the ground floor. Sitting room with wide opening to a large kitchen/diner with French doors, three bedrooms, family bathroom, garage, off road parking. EPC Rating: D. Freehold.

A three bedroom end town house with two garages and an allocated parking space. Sitting room with doors to garden, stylish fitted kitchen, impressive master bedroom with ensuite, cloakroom and no onward chain. EPC Rating: C. Freehold.

£275,000 Henstridge

£295,000 Wincanton

INDUSTRIAL UNITS to let, ranging from Small to Large, available at Gibbs Marsh Trading Estate, Stalbridge, DT10

2RX.Contact: 07768 993222

BLANDFORD FORUM ALMSHOUSE CHARITY

VACANT ONE BEDROOMED newly refurbished FIRST FLOOR FLAT at our Barnes Homes site

SOUTH CHERITON

Asking price £750,000 Agricultural tied dwelling in South Cheriton comprising five bedroomed chalet style bungalow set in fifteen acres with an outbuilding. EPC D Please call Morton New on 01747 824547 for more information

The New Blackmore Vale Magazine DEADLINES

Display ads must be booked by Wednesday the week prior to publication, with final copy submitted by the Friday.

Classified ads may be accepted after this, HOWEVER these will be subject to space.

Trustees are looking to appoint a single person or couple (aged 50+) who is/are of good character and have stron g links with Blandford or immediate area. Applicants must be of limited income and be non-smokers. No pets are allowed. There is no parking on site.

Initial enquiries may be made by calling the Chairman of Trustees on 07990 894250.

Trustees look forward to receiving your written enquiry giving details of your current residency, personal circumstances, and reasons for applying to: -

The Clerk, Blandford Forum Almshouse Charity, Barnes Homes, Salisbury Road, Blandford Forum, Dorset. DT11 7HU.

Closing date 5th October 2023

Puzzle solutions (from pages 38-39) Edition

Brain chain (hard)