Blackmore Vale - Edition 102

A FAIRYTALE BRIDLE

What’s inside this issue…

Kye Harman Sports Editor sports@blackmorevale.net 01963 400186

Debi Thorne Sales Director

Debi.thorne@blackmorevale.net 07714 289409

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

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

Clare Govan Account Manager

clare.govan@blackmorevale.net 07714 289407

Lloyd Armishaw Publisher newsdesk@blackmorevale.net 01963 400186

Lorraine Drake Distributor lorraine_drake@icloud.com 07850 529937

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

Thieves make off with Abbey silver

POLICE are appealing for information after thieves stole valuable silver and caused significant damage when they broke into Sherborne Abbey.

A Sherborne Police spokesperson said: “Sometime between 9pm on August 6 and 1am on August 7, Sherborne Abbey was burgled.

“Thieves broke through a door and stole a large amount of silver items.”

said: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the theft at Sherborne Abbey and the damage that has been incurred on one of the most significant and beautiful churches in the diocese and wider Church of England.

“Such actions are deeply upsetting for the community, who have lost items of value to both the town and the abbey.

The Revd Martin Lee, Rector of Sherborne Abbey, said: “This is an extremely sad day for the abbey and indeed for our community.

“We are all deeply shocked by this crime and now must work hard to deal with the consequences and support all those in our community who are affected by this act of desecration to our beautiful abbey.”

A diocesan spokesperson

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the community at this distressing time.”

It is believed the offenders entered through the Abbey Close end of the building and then exited near Church Lane.

responsible.

Police Community Support Officer Mark Jones, of Sherborne Police, said:

“Sherborne Abbey is a historic landmark of significant cultural value to not just the town but the whole county and we are carrying out enquiries into this burglary to identify those

“We are keen to trace the movement of the offenders in the areas of Hospital Lane, Abbey Road, Church Lane and Half Moon Street so I would ask local residents to please check their home CCTV and doorbell cameras to see if they have captured anything of relevance.

the time of the offence to please review their dashcams to see if they have captured any footage which may aid our investigation.”

“I would also urge any motorists driving in the area at

If you have CCTV or dashcam footage, or any other information, contact Dorset Police (www.dorset.police.uk/ do-it-online) quoting Dorset Police Occurrence 55240120614.

History in the making

A FORMER soldier tells the story of his father’s part in a top secret mission behind enemy lines in a new book published to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Arnhem.

Frome man Frank Hughes played a vital role in Operation Market Garden, working 60 miles into enemy territory and becoming part of a nation’s history.

His story is powerfully narrated by his son Tan, in his book Arnhem Veteran, out this August.

Arnhem Veteran is a factual record, a story in many parts comprised from Frank’s personal notes, memoirs and a lengthy newspaper article Frank wrote for The Sunday Express in 1984.

Tan has gleaned further detail from his war years through

research, together with conversations and letters shared over a generation, between father and son, during a time where son Tan would emulate his father to also face conflict in foreign land.

This captivating, and at times chilling, account, is a rare historic document that details the life of one of Frome’s own, a man to be proud of and remember.

To pre-order a signed copy direct from the author, please email tannhauserpublishing@ gmail.com

Pottering around

THE Potting Shed at Middlemarsh, Sherborne, a nursery, therapy garden and small cafe, is an oasis of calm in a beautiful Dorset setting.

It is the brainchild of Michele Hounsell and Andrew Cole, who re-located the entire site from Yeovil a year ago.

The Potting Shed is a place to de-stress and offers cabins for holistic therapists to provide treatments, including Reiki, massage, sound healing, meditation and vibrational therapy.

The site has a growing programme of group events including outdoor yoga, chakra dance, gong baths and qi-gong.

In good weather these activities can take place in the wildflower meadow, which is flanked by four ancient oak trees. In less favourable conditions, an undercover area allows participants to keep dry.

A barn is being built for workshop and educational purposes and the site also houses beehives and a chickens.

The Potting Shed provides volunteering opportunities and hosts young people who have been excluded from mainstream education.

It is also listed in Dorset Mind’s directory and it is hoped to link up with local men’s groups to help with some of the bigger tasks that need completing.

Museum is a slice of local history

by Rose Heesom, honorary curator

A TOWN museum documents everyday rural life through the ages.

Mere Museum was founded in 1970 by Dr. David Longbourne MBE, and over the last 50 years it has gained a significant collection of photos and documents relating to the heritage of the people of Mere.

There are many notable families who have lived in Mere for generations, and we are fortunate that TH Baker recorded the early history of Mere in great detail.

The current exhibition features St Michael’s parish church. It is supporting the Tower Stories year of celebration following the repair of the church’s tower pinnacles, which was funded by a lottery grant. There is a children’s quiz on the church too.

We currently have over 8,600 items in the museum’s collection, which are displayed in rotation relevant to what’s happening in Mere.

The Museum has a permanent display showing the ecological history of the town and its industries. In addition to farming,

these include Greenhouse Nurseries, silk making and the Hillbrush Factory.

Castle Hill was the site of the castle, built in 1253 by Richard, Earl of Cornwall, but abandoned in the 14th century.

The museum is supported by the Friends of Mere Museum, who raise funds through an annual plant sale, quizzes and various talks.

The museum has received two large donations recently through legacies which were used to buy additional display cabinets.

One of the most recognisable items on display is the white horse, which came from the Saddler’s shop in Castle Street run by George Stone.

The horse needed conservation work recently, and was taken to the History Centre at Chippenham. It now stands proudly on display alongside the history of the shop and the family.

The museum is housed within the library on Barton Lane and is open during library hours.

The staff are all volunteers including the curator who is available on Monday mornings but arrangements to see the curator can be made at other times.

If you have any photos or items you wish to donate relating to Mere and the surrounding villages, or you’d like to see the curator, please email meremuseum@ btinternet.com

Yeovil nurse Pat retires after 51 years helping others

“I ALWAYS wanted to be a nurse.”

Those were the words of inspirational Pat Wilcox, who has retired from her role at Yeovil Hospital after a staggering 51 years’ service.

And after her retirement, she got a surprise visit from town MP Adam Dance (Lib Dem, Yeovil).

Adam, who is a governor of the hospital, delivered a surprise bouquet of flowers.

“It is through the dedication and hard work of Pat and her colleagues at Yeovil Hospital that the people of South Somerset can still rely on the NHS,” the MP said.

“Pat has given most of her life to the NHS and has worked in the emergency department at Yeovil.

“I understand there are great difficulties accessing GPs and dentists but Yeovil Hospital provides much needed help and reassurance when there are emergencies.

“Without this we would all be much more insecure.

“I wish Pat well in her retirement and thank her for her years of service to the people of South Somerset and West Dorset.

“I hope Pat and her husband, Bernie, will now be able to take some time for themselves and as Pat says, open a new chapter in their lives.”

Pat said: “I always wanted to be a nurse and started my training in January 1973. A small hospital then, with two nightingale wards, a children’s ward, private wing, casualties as

it was known then and outpatients; the District Hospital opened in March 1973.

“I qualified in 1976, working initially in Main Theatre and Intensive care, before spending 47 years in the Emergency Department.

“I have had sad times, happy times, and what I would call character building times.

“I feel privileged to have worked alongside and been part of an amazing team, supporting so many people and their families.

“At the age of 18, I would never have thought that 51 and a half years later I would finally walk out of the door for the last time.

“On Friday I was shocked and humbled that Adam Dance MP visited me to thank me for

my service to the community, giving me some beautiful flowers.

“I didn’t expect this, all I have done is the job that I have loved, being part of an amazing dedicated team, working together to provide the best care that we can.

“I will miss my patients, their families and my colleagues, but I am looking forward to opening a new chapter in my life.”

Time to shut up shop

THE closure at the end of July of James the Newsagents marks the end of an era in Blandford.

The family business has been operating in the town for over 120 years.

For the last 46 years, it has been run by Pauline Murray, who started work there in 1961 and at the age of 83 has finally decided to retire.

The business was established by Pauline’s great-uncle Walter England in 1903.

At least five generations of the family have worked there, including Pauline’s parents Grace and Fred James, who retired in 1978, and her son, daughter-in-law and grandchildren.

She has been ably assisted by her partner John Kennea.

The business has remained in The Plocks, but in 2002 moved from the premises at the front to a smaller room at the back, devoting itself entirely to newspaper delivery – a move which followed the targeting of the premises by armed robbers.

Pauline remembered in the 1940s going with her father to the railway station in

Oakfield Street, Blandford to collect the newspapers back in the days when they used to come on the train.

“We used to use a handcart to bring them back to the shop,” she said.

In 2017, 600 people in the town and surrounding villages received daily deliveries on 15 paper rounds. Papers were sorted from 4.30am to 5.30am, and at one time they were delivering more than a thousand newspapers a day.

Over the years the business has provided employment for hundreds of young paper boys and girls.

In a letter to their customers, Pauline said: “After long deliberation John and I have decided that the time has come for us to retire, and the last day for newspaper and magazine delivery will be Saturday, July 27.

“We would like to thank you, all our previous customers and delivery boys and girls, for your custom and their service over the years, but after 121 years it is time to retire.”

Rather than just close the business, they had arranged for the current service to be taken over by NewsTeam, a nationwide company specialising in newspaper delivery.

NewsTeam has its own staff, so won’t require the services of the newsagents’ own team of delivery staff.

Pauline received over 100 retirement cards and a large number of bouquets from grateful customers.

Golf club and Rotary join forces

THE Rotary Club of Sherborne Castles has raised thousands of pounds for good causes through a charity golf day at Folke Golf Club.

£3,000 was raised for The Rendezvous in Sherborne, which helps young people, and a further £1,000 was set aside for other organisations that help youngsters in the town.

The money was raised thanks to the support of Oakglen Wealth, the other sponsors and supporters, and all those who played and contributed.

Rotary Club president, Mike Balfour, is pictured with Fiona Franklin from The Rendezvous, and golf day organisers, Rotarians Frank Skinner and Mike Hatch.

Pauline Murray, who has retired after 46 years with James the Newsagents

Maisie’s stepping up for horse welfare

A GILLINGHAM girl is raising money for a charity that helps improve welfare standards for horses and donkeys across the world.

10-year-old Maisie Trim is planning to walk the 10 miles from her home in Gillingham to King Alfred’s Tower this week – but the walk won’t stop until she’s climbed all 205 steps to the top of the tower.

So far, Maisie has raised an impressive £320 which will support World Horse Welfare’s aim to stamp out suffering for horses and donkeys in the UK and worldwide.

Maisie said that she was inspired to raise money for the charity following a recent visit to World Horse Welfare.

“I believe it is every horse and donkey’s right to be happy, well cared for and treated with respect.

“To do my part, on August 10 I’m doing a sponsored walk from Gillingham to King Alfred’s tower, finishing by climbing the 205 steps to the top of the tower!”

To donate, search ‘Maisie’s fundraiser for World Horse Welfare’ on JustGiving.

Top of the pop-ups!

WEAR your finest fabrics to Blandford Fashion Museum this August to claim your free drink.

Blandford Fashion Museum is celebrating its new pop-up display of Laura Ashley dresses and fabrics with a special event on Saturday, August 24.

Laura Ashley became a household name among the clothes conscious of the 1960s and 1970s, and its floral,

prairie-style maxi dresses defined the fashion of the era.

Anyone visiting the Museum on August 24, wearing Laura Ashley, can claim a free tea or coffee from the museum’s traditional tea room.

Anything goes, from handbags to hats, off-the-peg dresses or homemade creations.

Find out more at

blandfordfashionmuseum.co.uk

Gorgeous gardens across the Vale open for charity this autumn

PICK up inspiration from the beautiful gardens around the Vale, open in September as part of the National Garden Scheme.

The Potting Shed

Middlemarsh, Sherborne DT9 5QN

The Potting Shed opened its doors in April 2023. This two-acre wellbeing nursery and therapy garden is designed to enhance relaxation and tranquillity.

The community garden has been planted organically to encourage all forms of wildlife. There is an acre of wildflower meadow, plant nursery and tea garden to explore. The café is towards the back of the garden and overlooks the wildflower meadow.

Open Saturday, September 14 (10am-4pm), £4.50, children free.

Athelhampton House

Athelhampton, Dorchester DT2 7LG

The award-winning gardens at Athelhampton surround the Tudor manor house, and date from 1891.

This glorious Grade I architectural garden is full of vistas with spectacular planting, ponds with fountains and the River Piddle flowing past. The Great Court, with 12 giant yew topiary pyramids, is overlooked by two terraced pavilions.

Open Sunday, September 22 (10am5pm), £12.50 (garden only) children free.

Manor Farm, Hampreston

Wimborne

BH21 7LX

A traditional farmhouse garden designed and cared for by three generations of the Trehane family through over 100 years of farming and gardening at Hampreston.

The garden is noted for its deep herbaceous borders and rose beds within box and yew hedges, mature shrubbery, water and bog garden. There are excellent plants for sale at openings.

Open Sunday, September 1 (1pm-5pm), £5, children free.

Knoll Gardens

Hampreston BH21 7ND

A naturalistic and calming garden, renowned for its whispering ornamental grasses. It also surprises and delights with an abundance of show-stopping flowering perennials.

A stunning backdrop of trees and shrubs add drama to this wildlife- and environmentally-friendly garden.

On-site nursery sells quality plants, with expert advice readily available.

Open Friday, September 20 (10am-5pm), £7.95, children £5.95.

Donhead Hall

Donhead

St Mary, SP7 9DS

A stunning, classically designed garden with views to Cranborne Chase.

Martin Lane Fox designed the terracing and advised on the landscaping of the gardens, which are on four levels.

The kitchen garden boasts box hedging and a crab apple archway through the middle, plus lots of old greenhouses full of plants.

Large mixed borders and specimen trees.

A walled garden overlooks the deer park.

Open Sunday, September 15 (2pm-5pm), £7, children free.

Entries may be subject to change – check www.ngs.org.uk for the latest information.

Manor Farm

Stourton

Caundle, DT10 2JW

A 17th-century farmhouse and barns with walled garden in the middle of the village.

Mature trees, shrubberies, herbaceous borders, lakes and vegetable garden.

Open (with Wagtails) Sunday, September 8 (2pm-5.30pm), £10, children free.

Entries may be subject to change – check www.ngs.org.uk for the latest information.

Athelhampton House

The Potting Shed

Manor Farm, Hampreston

Knoll Gardens

Donhead Hall

Manor Farm, Stourton Caundle

Bank holiday fete

ONE of the best traditional village fetes in Wiltshire and Dorset – and one of the best attended – will be held at Donhead St Andrew on August Bank Holiday Monday.

Nearly 2,000 visitors, drawn from the village, other local communities and further afield, attended last year’s event.

More than 200 villagers from Donhead St Andrew are involved in putting on this year’s fete, and a 40-plus vehicle Classic Car & Bike Show – 1pm-4.30pm – and Annual Dog Show – 3.30pm4.15pm – will add to the fun of the afternoon.

This year organisers have added a family of alpacas and displays by the Blackmore Vale Bonsai Group, South West Wildlife, Cranborne Chase Astronomy Club and Wiltshire Air Ambulance to the attractions.

A non-stop barbecue, beer and cider tent, cream teas and ice creams will be on offer, along with music from The Sunset Cafe Stompers.

Selling stalls include bric-a-brac, cakes and biscuits, preserves and chutneys.

Amusements for children and families include a Punch & Judy Show, Merry-Go-Round, China Smash and coconut shy.

A bottle tombola and “guess the number of balloons in the car”, with a big cash prize for the winner, are also on offer.

The fete supports both Wiltshire and Dorset air ambulance services, Salisbury Hospice, Tisbus, Happy Gathering and St Andrew’s Church.

The fete is on Bank Holiday Monday, August 26, from 1pm-4.30pm at Stoney Hills Field in Sands Lane, Donhead St Andrew (SP7 9LL).

Camera competition

THE Photography Challenge held by Blandford Forum Camera Club proved popular with families, members and non-members.

Entrants in the five-hour challenge produced interesting photos on Animal,

Flora, Architecture, Red and Abstract themes.

“It proved to be a popular way to spend some family time, exploring the area to find the images for each theme,” said a spokesperson for the club.

Alison Vokins had the overall winning image from the Animal section, and Pippa Watts the Best Junior image in the Abstract section.

Results: Animals – 1 Alison Vokins, 2 Ben Jackson, 3 Sally Barth; Flora – 1 Roly Barth, 2 Patricia Willis, 3 Pat Catley; Architecture – 1 George Scott-Giles, 2 Pippa Watts, 3 Bob Harrison; Red – 1 Jen Harrison, 2 Luke Young, 3 Patricia Willis; Abstract – 1 Alison Vokins, 2 Pippa Watts, 3 Emma Watts.

Blandford Forum Camera Club meets at The Old Water Tower, Station Court, Blandford, and the main season runs from September to May on Tuesdays from 7.30pm-10pm.

The club organises a range of

Above: Alison Vokins had the overall winning image from the Animal section

Left: Pippa Watts had the Best Junior image in the Abstract section

competitions and practical sessions, and hosts guest speakers. In addition, monthly digital editing support evenings, studio set-ups and field trips are held.

From June to September members get out and about with their cameras.

For more information about the club, visit bfcclub.co.uk. For information about future challenges visit www.facebook.com/ groups/1628603191319095

Keeping busy keeps Molly young at heart!

THE eldest resident at the Old Vicarage care home in Leigh may be 102 but is still very active – and can still remember childhood encounters with a famous author.

As a little girl of about three, Molly Clift remembers a man talking to her mum most days while she visited the shops.

The man – no other than Thomas Hardy – would tell her mum she had a beautiful daughter!

Molly enjoys doing lots of activities at the Old Vicarage. She knits – staff and residents have been lucky enough to have had mittens knitted for them over winter. She plays the piano and has painted for most of her life. Some of her work hangs on the home’s walls.

Register your interest!

Molly is entering both her paintings and her knitting in the forthcoming local flower show.

Enjoy effortless video calling and

Teddies coin in the cash for church

A TEDDY bears’ picnic has raised £100 for Fontmell Magna church repairs.

The sun shone as Big Ted made an appearance, and was chased around in a game of hide and seek. There was a raffle and a competition to guess the name of the bear. The grown ups also gave a rendition of Teddy Bear’s

Picnic!

The highlight of the afternoon was the teddy parachute jump, although most jumpers did free fall. Thanks to Uncles Marin, Roger and Richard for the ingenious dropping device. There were no serious injuries and plasters and bravery awards were on hand.

Best in show

STOURTON Flower and Produce Show was a roaring success, thanks to the quality of produce and enthusiasm of entrants, judges and visitors.

The show dates back over 100 years, and was held this August for the first time since 2019.

A glorious summer’s day saw Vanessa Meeker crowned best in show (pictured), with 12 trophies awarded in all.

In classes that included produce, flower arrangements, photography and art, Norman Rose won for his hand-crafted ironwork. Prizes were presented by Audrey Hoare.

Recognition for generous gardening

A SHERBORNE resident has been recognised for her green-fingered contribution to shared spaces.

Sherborne & District Society (CPRE) presented an award to Sylvia Avgherinos, who lives in the Wilderness, off St Swithins Road in Sherborne.

When the Wilderness was developed in the 1970s, the landscaping lacked inspiration. But when Sylvia moved in she

created beautiful borders full of flowers and shrubs in the common areas.

Sylvia enjoyed support from her neighbours, but the drive and vision was hers.

Sir Christopher Coville, the Chair of the Society, presented the award to Sylvia with a certificate that reads:

“Awarded to Mrs Sylvia Avgherinos in recognition of her outstanding contribution

made to the beauty of Sherborne, by finding the right balance between preserving the natural habitat and beautiful floral displays”.

The Society also gave Sylvia garden vouchers to encourage her to keep up the good work!

To find out more about the work of Sherborne & District Society (CPRE) email the secretary, David Gidney, davidgidney21@gmail.com

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Quiz masters

GET your grey cells working for the planet at a fundraising quiz night this September.

Planet Wimborne is inviting local quiz groups and individuals to put teams together in support of Planet Wimborne’s Green Festival.

With quizmaster John Billington at the helm, it promises to be a fun and entertaining evening.

Come as an individual or a group of up to six people. There

will be prizes, a raffle and licensed bar – bring your own snacks too.

Entry is £5 on the door –cash or cheque. Doors open at 7pm for 7.30pm, at Colehill Sports and Social Club, 108 Wimborne Road, Colehill (BH21 2QR).

More information at www. planetwimborne.org

To book contact Jeff Hart on jeffhart414@gmail.com or 01202 884201.

Fantastic family fun

A TRADITIONAL village fete is promised on the playing field and in the church at Oborne at the end of the month.

The event will include the Wriggle Valley Jazz Band, Granny’s Attic, skittles, barbecue, duck racing, church mouse hunt, wellie wanging, facepainting, children’s corner and lots more.

The event is on Saturday, August 31, from 12.30pm3.30pm and free parking is available.

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There’s a spy amongst the Guild

DORCHESTER Townswomen’s Guild is eagerly anticipating a presentation on espionage this September.

Kevin Patience will be presenting ‘The Man Who Never Was’, a true tale of World War Two derring do on September 9 at 2pm at Dorchester Community Church, Liscombe Street, Poundbury, DT1 3DF.

Visitors will be made very welcome for a small donation. Tea and coffee will be available. Enquiries 01305 832857.

Tor to town

WALKERS will trek 50km from Glastonbury Tor to Yeovil Town’s home ground to raise money for homegrown charities.

Yeovil Town Community Sports Trust’s Somerset Three Peaks Challenge on September 20 starts at the Tor, takes in Dundon Beacon and Ham Hill, before concluding at Huish Park.

Funds raised will support The Hub, Mind in Somerset and the Yeovil Hospital Charity.

Organisers hope the walk will highlight the importance of mental health, disability support, and local healthcare services.

For more information about the Somerset Three Peaks Challenge, sponsorship opportunities, or to register for the walk, please contact Connie Freeman at 01935 677 073 or connie.freeman@ytcst.co.uk

Find out more at www.ytfc. net/community-somerset-3peaks-challenge-for-localcharities

Donate at www.gofundme. com/f/somerset-3-peakschallenge-fundraising-for-localcharities.

Hobos Morris needs you!

WANT some exercise and to meet new people? Wimborne’s Hobos Morris is recruiting new members.

The female border morris side was formed in 1993, and practices at Wimborne’s British Legion Club (BH21 1LT).

Check them out in action at practice sessions on September 15 and 24 at 7.30pm at the club.

Find out more at www.hobos-morris.org.uk, email hobosbag@gmail.com or call 07905 212194.

History in the making

STURMINSTER Newton Heritage Trust has two events coming up. The Blackmore Vale group of the Somerset and Dorset Family History Society is meeting in the Bow Room at The Exchange on Wednesday, September 18, at 7.30pm.

Graham Colls and Carol Groome will be talking about events and news from in and around Sturminster Newton as discovered in the British Newspaper Archive.

Visitors are invited to take their finds along to a Finds Identification event with Ciorstaidh Hayward-Trevarthen at the town museum on Thursday, September 26.

It runs, by appointment only, between 10am-11.30am – contact finds@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk to book – with a drop-in session from 11.30am-1pm.

Flower show welcomes novice gardeners

MEMBERS of Wincanton & District Gardeners Association are inviting new exhibitors to take part in its annual flower show.

They say entrants do not have to be experienced exhibitors to enter any of the classes in the show at the Memorial Hall in Wincanton.

A wide selection of sections and classes are on offer, including Vegetables, Fruit, Flowers, Floral Arrangement, Homecraft, Handicraft, Photographic and Poetry.

The show also includes a section for novice exhibitors and the show schedule includes a children’s section.

Wincanton & District Gardeners Association was founded in 1954 and this will be its 67th annual show.

The event is on Saturday, September 7, with doors open to the public at 2pm and the prize-giving from 3.30pm. Refreshments will be available.

Schedules are available from Wincanton Library, Wild Cardz and the Parish Church Office.

They can also be downloaded from the association’s website, www.wincantongardeners.co.uk, or contact the show coordinator on 01963 32081.

Membership of the association brings many benefits throughout the year, coupled with an annual, comprehensive, schedule of events.

The group will be looking to fill the roles of secretary and chair at the annual meeting in October, due to retirement.

Anyone who can do so is asked to consider offering their services to ensure the association’s survival.

The group’s aim is “the promotion of horticulture and friendliness”.

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BEFORE AFTER

Advertising Feature

CHAPTERS: A LIFESTYLE OF LUXURY AND EASE

Just a short stroll from the city centre, the contemporary Chapters retirement village in Salisbury perfectly complements its historic backdrop.

Splendour, convenience, and community converge at Chapters to create the ideal retirement lifestyle. These beautiful one and two-bedroom apartments have been carefully designed to suit - whether you prefer the contemporary vibe of Nightingale Square with its spacious and bright interiors, or the historic grandeur of Grade II-listed 19th-century Finch House with its high ceilings and period features. All are within a short stroll from the city centre.

This vibrant, over-55 community offers an array of facilities, including an exclusive lounge, library and TV room, cinema and activity room, bistro, and guest suite. There is also an on-site Community Manager for help and support.

Every detail, from spacious interiors to private balconies and terraces, has been meticulously curated to ensure your comfort and enjoyment. Plus, with energy-efficient features and hassle-free maintenance, you can relax and embrace your newfound freedom without worry.

“We have a super community at Chapters.” GWEN – CHAPTERS

A HOME WHERE YOU CAN THRIVE

Chapters isn’t just about luxurious living spaces; it’s about fostering a vibrant community of like-minded individuals.

Join your neighbours in the homeowners’ lounge or courtyard gardens for social gatherings and activities or enjoy the peace and serenity of your own space.

Whether you’re seeking a lively social scene or a quiet retreat, Chapters offers the perfect balance of sociability and privacy.

At Platinum Skies, we’re committed to providing exceptional retirement living. Come and experience this for yourself at our Chapters Discovery Day on September 5th.

“In this community, it’s very easy to make friends.”

– CHAPTERS

ELIZABETH

DISCOVER:

CHAPTERS, SALISBURY JOIN US ON SEPTEMBER 5TH

“I am so happy here. I’ve never looked back.”

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Let us introduce you to a world of possibilities at Chapters, Salisbury.

Where luxury, convenience, and community converge to create your ideal retirement lifestyle. Join

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Red Rubies set for auction

REDRuby Devon cattle are famed for their beautiful deep rich red mossy coats, their calm temperament, high fertility, plentiful milk, marbled connoisseur beef and outstanding ability to graze environmentally enhanced pastures commonly found in our most beautiful local landscape.

These attributes first attracted the current owners when looking for a beef herd to graze their farms at Mere, just off the Wiltshire Downs.

Their decision to buy Red Ruby Devons coincided with a major reduction of the celebrated Kingston Lacy Herd - the property of The National Trust which had been established in the 1890s by the late WR Banks and gifted to the Trust in 1981 by HJR Banks.

Farmer Ruth attended the sale and bought well, securing the best on offer to

Stock bulls have come from the worldrenowned Whitefield herd and latterly the prize winning Rocknell herd.

The herd has been skillfully developed to maintain and enhance the qualities the couple first fell in love with and now the painful decision has been made to dramatically reduce the herd to a more manageable size for the septuagenarian couple.

The sale takes place at Larkinglass Farm, Motcombe, SP7 9HY on Thursday, August 29, from noon, where approximately 100 head will go under the hammer including cows and calves, served heifers, steers and bulls.

Joint Auctioneers Symonds & Sampson and Andrew Lane are delighted to have been appointed to conduct the sale.

Andrew Lane, who is also president of

and so much more.

the Devon Cattle Breeders Society, said that having sold Ruth her foundation cattle at Kingston Lacy it is a privilege to have watched the Mere Park cattle grow and develop into the well-respected herd it has become today.

The herd features two outstanding stock bulls in Whitefield Unbelievable EX91 winner of the DCBS two-year-old bull of the year in 2023 and Rocknell Quarrylad EX95, both of which are leaving quality offspring including a son each in the sale which could be your next herd sire.

The cattle on offer have deep pedigrees, outstanding confirmation and are a must have for both pedigree and commercial breeders alike.

Viewing dates and catalogues are available from the auctioneers.

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establish the Mere Park herd.

Rare mushrooms are back on the menu thanks to Dorset’s fungi rescuer

A FUNGI enthusiast has been collecting, preserving and propagating Dorset’s rare wild mushrooms.

Andy Knott from Bere Regis has spent the last year travelling the county, collecting samples of rare native mushrooms. He then clones them, enabling mushroom growers to enjoy the fruits of their labour without disturbing wild populations.

One such rare UK mushroom is Hericium coralloides, the coral tooth fungus. It’s so rare that Andy only knows of one record in Dorset.

“I first found it several years ago and have visited it every year to see it fruit again. It’s a rare cousin of the UK protected Lionsmane (Hericium erinaceous), which has recently gained in popularity thanks to its taste and texture, but also because of its medicinal properties.

“Coralloides is very similar in many ways, apart from the way it grows. It produces these stunning fractals of coral structure, as opposed to Lionsmane which does resemble to mane of a lion, with long white cascading spines.

“Most years this rare Dorset mushroom is harvested by somebody. While they are not breaking any laws (because this mushrooms isn’t protected like its poster boy cousin Lionsmane), it does mean others don’t get to enjoy its beauty.

“By removing the fruiting body from the wild, the forager is reducing the chance of more spores dropping and settling elsewhere, which may create new colonise of this beautiful organism.”

Instead, Andy harvests a piece of this mushroom that’s the size of a postage

stamp. From this ultra-fresh sample, he can clone the mushroom.

It’s a technical, specialised process that has to happen in an incredibly clean environment, as Andy explains:

“Once we have our small sample, it’s taken back to the lab. There, in front of the laminar flow hood (a fan unit with HEPA filters to ensure an aseptic environment) we tear it open to expose a clean part of the fruiting body.

“We take a sterile scalpel and cut a slice no bigger than a grain of rice.

“Mushrooms are fascinating; they can regenerate from teeny tiny piece. We place this slice onto a Petri dish of agar, and pop it in the incubator until we start to see mycelial hyphae extending out from the small piece of mushroom tissue.”

Eventually, after a series of resampling and incubating has taken place, the culture is ready for cultivation. The whole process can take anywhere between two and nine months, perhaps longer with some medicinal species.

The resulting culture can be made into a liquid broth or introduced into a sterile bag of grain, from where it can be transferred to wood pellets or a mixture of coir, vermiculite and gypsum, depending on the natural habitat of the species.

From this point, what grows is both beautiful and edible!

“I have fruited my cloned coral tooth fungus three times now, and the huge fruiting bodies have gone to my good friend Alex, who is head chef of Thirteen on Ashley Road in Parkstone,” says Andy.

Andy also sells syringes of liquid fungi broth to mushroom enthusiasts and commercial growers around the UK.

“Currently, we grow mainly non-native species of mushrooms in the UK, both commercially and at home in kits.

“My wish is to continue to successfully clone these native species and get mushroom growers around the country to switch from commercial strains (which are usually of US or Chinese origin) to UK native strains.

“We have seen what the introduction of non-native plants has done to our countryside over the years. We don’t really know yet what the impact of non-native fungal species and pathogens may have,” says Andy.

Native mushrooms populations are in decline, Andy explains. “Natural England

and the Forestry Commission like to blame the lack of mushrooms on foragers. In truth, it’s our ancient deciduous woodlands that we are not maintaining or actively destroying, which is why we see less and less mushrooms these days.

“The loss of pastures, farming processes, the use of chemicals and synthesised fertilisers all play a part too. In a county where ancient woodland is few and far between and isn’t particularly cherished, we are losing the crucial habitat these rare mushrooms require to thrive.”

But Andy has hope for the future of our fungi. “Something I haven’t done yet is to actually rewild an area, but it’s possible.

“If somebody out there has the land, the money and a desire to restore things, we could plug fallen logs with suitable species of native fungi and actually recolonise woodlands and green spaces.”

Find out more on Instagram @ jurassiccoastmushrooms or email hello@ jurassiccoastmushrooms.com

The rare coral tooth fungus in situ on a huge beech tree at Upton Country Park

Andy shows off his huge cloned coral tooth fungus

Where else can you see a giant 1000lb pumpkin?

The Dorset and Country Show

SIZE really does matter at this year’s county show. Monster size pumpkins are going to be weighing in on the 7th and 8th September.

The heaviest pumpkin class is one of the most popular classes to see at the show. Many of these pumpkins spend over 100 days on the vine before their debut at the show. A huge amount of care goes in to achieve this size and they are thirsty too – many like to be watered over 12 times a day. On chillier evenings rumour has it that many of our pumpkin growers tuck their pumpkins up with blankets.

Arriving at the show in trailers, these giant gourds will be on display all weekend at the County Show. Carefully weighed before the start of the show, the champion squash will be announced on Sunday 8th.

To put size into perspective many of these pumpkins weigh over 1000lb that’s equivalent to 11 bags of cement or a bull head shark. These monster squashes will weigh more than many of the horses and ponies competing at the show.

I t’s not only pumpkins that are weighing in. The

a bowling ball.

The County Show celebrates rural life in Dorset. The show will welcome Atkinsons Action Horses, IMPs Motorcycle Display Team, Tomahawk Throwing, horse logging, Axeman and of course – livestock! There really is something for everyone.

7 & 8 SEPT 2024

heaviest onion class is also attracting entries. Giant onions can weigh in at 9kg the same as a watermelon or

Our loose Canon

Try to understand the crowd, rather than be carried along with it

by Canon Eric Woods

BY the time you read this, I sincerely hope that the violent demonstrations and outbursts of sheer thuggery which have been infecting many of our towns and cities will have ceased. They bring shame on us all, and I suspect that most of you – like me – have the same gut reaction to them. As our new Prime Minister keeps saying, they must be punished with the full force of the law.

However, we need to dig deeper to understand what exactly has been happening to create these outbursts. I want tentatively to suggest a few points for consideration. You may disagree with my analysis – but, I hope, not violently!

So, why do people turn protests into riot and violence? I think there are four components. The first is fear: fear that society and our communities are changing in ways we do not understand and do not like. Second, anger: anger that newcomers to our communities are receiving a better deal than we think they deserve. Third, envy: envy that so many in our nation are doing much better than others, despite all the promises we have heard from recent governments about “levelling-up”. Fourth, resentment, that there seems to be nothing anyone can do to change the perceived imbalances in our society.

Fear, anger, envy and resentment: these have for centuries

fuelled popular unrest and violent upheaval in every part of the world. They are a toxic mix. It is a mix that can readily be manipulated by those with more destructive agenda. I think inevitably of Palestine in the first Christian century, under Roman occupation and as volatile a land then as it is now. Everything came to a head one year when Jews converged on Jerusalem in their tens of thousands for Passover, vastly outnumbering the Roman garrison. The Roman Governor and his court, and the quisling local leaders, were in a high state of agitation. It was a tinderbox.

Into this tense moment came Jesus. And the Jewish resistance movement saw in him an opportunity to stage-manage an uprising. The rent-a-mob swung into action, waving their palm branches (which were the first century equivalent of nationalist flags). Jesus defused the moment by entering Jerusalem on a humble donkey rather than a conqueror’s stallion – a powerful symbol in the Middle East, then and now. So the self-same crowd turned on him. Their “hosannas” turned into the shout of “Crucify him!”

The crowd is always fickle, and easy to manipulate. A great historian who demonstrated that clearly was George Rudé in his classic work The Crowd in History [1964]. From him I learned always to be suspicious of the crowd whenever it shouts for this political programme or that; this popular cause or that; this religion or that. Tomorrow it will be shouting for something else.

Of course we need to tackle the root causes of current disturbances. But remember that those doing the manipulating –often on social media, and some even within Parliament itself –remain, as they see it, above the law. They are the real enemy within.

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Hazel continues living independently with support from Care South at Home

Care in your own home can provide reassurance to your loved ones, while enabling you to continue living independently in your own home.

Care South at Home’s West Dorset team can provide flexible, personalised care to meet a range of care needs. Their carers can help with continual daily support and respite care services from companionship and help with collecting prescriptions and shopping to supporting more complex care needs, such as dementia and end-of-life care.

This can be a useful option if your care-giver is going on holiday or needs a break and would like to have the peace of mind that you will receive care support in their absence.

Hazel receives daily visits from the Care South at Home team to get her day started with personal care and the preparation of her breakfast. For the rest of the day, Hazel’s care is provided by her sister and brother-in-law, who she lives with.

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Care South at Home client, Hazel, pictured with carer Alison

Riding in Jordan: A childhood dream fulfilled

I WAS nine when I saw the film Lawrence of Arabia, and from that moment I harboured a dream of riding through the Wadi Rum in southern Jordan, following the route taken by Lawrence from the Nabatean city of Petra to Aqaba on the Red Sea.

Earlier this year I flew to Amman, the capital of Jordan, and took a bus to Petra where I joined up with a small group of riders from France, Germany and England.

The horses, three mares, three geldings and a stallion, were lean, fit and spirited, and varied in height from 14.2h to 15.3h.

While not pure-bred Arabs they certainly possessed a good dose of Arab blood and were capable of cantering for long stretches across gravel, granite bedrock and sand, and could scale with ease massive dunes more suited to camels.

As the oldest member of the group, I was worried I might find the pace and long hours in the saddle riding a high-spirited horse through open country a challenge.

The incessant wet winter in England meant I hadn’t been able to ride much before embarking on the ride, the bridlepaths and fields being too sodden for a long canters or gallops, so I wasn’t really “cantering” fit.

My last experience of cantering with a group of horses had been on the hunting field 25 years ago.

While I had done the occasional Fun Ride, I had never experienced Endurance Riding, so on the first day I confess I felt somewhat out of my comfort zone cantering in a group for three or four minutes on a strange horse.

The Wadi Rum is part of the

Lifelong horse rider Harriet Ray, who lives near Shepton Mallet, on a rather special adventure

Great Rift Valley that stretches from Africa to Lebanon.

A protected area and a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is a spectacular desert landscape with massive red-orange coloured sandstone mountains weathered and eroded over thousands of years by wind, rain, salt and sand into extraordinary shapes –crevasses, rock bridges, caves and canyons.

The weather was perfect for riding – a cloudless cornflower blue sky, sun and a cool breeze. It was essential to wear scarves across our faces and longsleeved shirts to prevent sunburn.

At sunset the temperature would drop and it was chilly at night and first thing in the morning.

As we progressed through the desert we passed herds of camels, sheep and goats grazing on white saxaul and guarded by Bedouin men wearing long flowing robes and red and white checked headscarves.

Spring flowers and herbs used by the Bedouin for tea and medicinal purposes were just beginning to bloom in the desert.

Each night we camped in the lee of a mountain among blue iris, bushes of white-flowered broom, oleander and wild melons.

Small white-crowned wheatears with their distinctive high-pitched whistling call kept us entertained as they darted around the rock face.

The horses were tethered on long webbing ropes attached to a metal stake hammered into the ground.

Our tents were pitched beside them and as I lay in my sleeping bag, I could hear their heavy breathing as they slept!

Sun rises and sunsets were particularly beautiful, turning the rock faces pale pink.

With no light pollution in the night sky, the stars were magnificent.

Each day we rode for two and a half hours in the morning with a break of two hours for lunch and for the horses to be watered, fed and rested.

They rolled in the sand as soon as their saddles were removed, then lay down stretched out to sleep, totally

unperturbed by us moving around among them.

They even liked to eat their feed of chaff and oats from nosebags while lying down.

Then we would brush the sand out of their coats, saddle up and ride a further two and a half hours in the afternoon.

In total we covered about 20 miles a day, walking and cantering.

Trotting was not a pace we used, which is just as well as my horse had a particularly uncomfortable trot, but her canter was like sitting in a rocking chair!

After this experience I have returned fit and a more confident rider.

Despite the war in Syria and Gaza, Jordan is a very safe country for tourists and, as a woman a travelling alone, I encountered a warm welcome and great hospitality.

The wars have however had a detrimental effect on tourism which is down by 95%.

n For further details contact Eid Al Hasanat at www. horseridingtoursjordan.com

Harriet Ray rode in the Wadi Rum, part of the Great Rift Valley that stretches from Africa to Lebanon, and a UNESCO World Heritage site

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Records provide glimpse into Hunt’s past

THE activities of the Blackmore Vale Hunt over more than five decades, mainly over the early part of the last century, are revealed in a set of records Dorset History Centre has recently acquired.

The centre already held some records about the hunt but the new material, covering the period 1894-1945, provides a great deal more information about its inner workings, activities and membership.

The four record books are filled with miscellaneous information including minutes, accounts, subscriber lists and correspondence to and from hunt officials, and cast an interesting light on the culture and customs of rural communities.

The Blackmore Vale Hunt dates its inception to 1831 with its ‘country’ – geographical hunting domain – stretching across the north of Dorset.

It was populated by members of the area’s leading families, along with other wealthy individuals, but the records show the hunt’s impact was significant in other ways.

One of the hunt’s key functions related to the compensation paid to local people for poultry killed by foxes.

The hunt meticulously recorded all those certified to confirm any such activity and reports had to be made within 24 hours to qualify.

Compensation was payable based on the type and number of poultry killed.

For example, in 1902 a chicken was compensated at 6d; turkeys in May or June were 1 shilling, but by November this had risen to 5 shillings.

In 1899, the hunt received

£1,004 into its Poultry Fund and paid out £554, suggesting a healthy surplus.

The aim was to encourage local people not to kill foxes themselves and so leave enough to be pursued by the hounds.

The records suggest the hunt was active up to six days a week but a letter from May 1899 refers to complaints about too many foxes in certain parts of the hunt’s ‘country’.

The hunt also wanted to

discourage the use of wire to fence in fields – especially barbed wire, which could present a serious impediment to horses and dogs.

A letter in May 1923, from the hunt’s leading lights, suggests working with farmers

to promote other forms of boundary management.

To this end, a wire committee was formed to encourage the removal of wire and to suppress its use.

As an incentive, the hunt also held an annual competition for the best fenced farm and for the best hedging and ditching undertaken locally.

In 1912, for example, a top prize of £17 was offered to the best Class 1 entry – a farm of over 250 acres.

The hunt, containing as it did many of the leading lights of the local area, was not universally popular.

Occasional letters appear in the records from farmers who expressly denied access to the hunt across their land.

Fox hunting with hounds has been illegal since 2004. However, these records offer a glimpse into what was at one time a highly organised rural pursuit.

A notice proscribing Blackmore Vale Hunt activity on two specific farms, late in the 20th century

Blackmore Vale Hunt record books PHOTOS: Dorset History Centre

Letter promoting the removal of wire from farms in the Blackmore Vale, May 1923

Hedging and ditching competition, 1912

The tariff of compensation payable in the early 20th century

Summer Fair at Canford

The Wessex Event Company are delighted to be holding our 7th Summer Fair in the beautiful house and grounds of Canford School on Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th August this year.

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

After being inspired by over 100 stands selling a host of artisan foods, crafts, plants and garden accessories, both inside the magnificent school building and outside in the beautiful grounds, why not chill out in our Street Food Area, where you can enjoy mid morning snacks, lunches and afternoon treats, including Seafood, Bratwurst, Falafels, Greek, Indian, Hot Potatoes, Cheese Reclettes, Pizzas, Churros and Ice Cream all washed down with coffee, tea, soft drinks or something slightly stronger from the fairs Bar. While you sit and eat and relax you will be entertained by fabulous local artists including Steve Frapwell, Ian Roberts, Shannon White and Phil Smith.

NEW THIS YEAR

There will be even more for children to enjoy including a Climbing Wall, Caving Tunnel, Craft Area ,Sand Art and Story Telling. Disney Princesses and Superheroes will also be joining in the fun.

Our children’s entertainments will also include rides, games and face painting. We again have the very popular Circus Skills Workshop on both days for children to participate in and learn

A fun day for the whole family!

some of the magic of the circus, as well as the Magic Man and Tumble Tots for the very young.

Watch the Falconry displays and marvel in the grace and agility of these wonderful birds or prey

The cost of entry is just £4 for Adults, £3.50 for concessions, with children under 14 just £1, making this one of the most affordable, family friendly, value for money days out you will find in the area this summer.

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

We would like to thank our sponsors The Hendy Group, Meyers Estate Agents, Save Energy, Nationwide Building Innovations and Holt Recruitment for their support of our events.

Bride’s dream day

SHAFTESBURY woman Jess Sanders-White’s childhood dream came true when she arrived at her wedding on horseback.

Jess rode her friend’s grey horse Cags from the car park at the bottom of Gillingham High Street, cheered on by wellwishers, to the town hall, where she married her wife, Charlotte.

The couple celebrated their wedding on Saturday, August 3, with more than 100 friends and family at The Kings Arms in East Stour.

Jess describes herself as a “true Shastonian” having lived in the town since she was born in 1992.

FULL FIBRE BROADBAND HAS LANDED

Furry friends tour care home

A LITTLE bit of animal magic came to the Castleman House care home in Blandford Forum with a visit by two alpacas from Alpaca Adventure in Shaftesbury.

The animals, named Len and Sandy, caused a lot of excitement, smiles and laughter among residents, staff and family members, who had many questions for owner, Wendy.

The alpacas met everyone in the main lounge before visiting residents in their rooms.

Picture and text by George Jeans, Mere

THE villagers of Kilmington have raised more than £1,000 to keep St Mary’s chuch open.

The money was made during an evening of food, music and summer drinks.

The alpacas with Ian and Rita and Jean

Collectable caricatures

TWO Dorset philatelists go back to the birth of the postage stamp and a craze equivalent to the modern internet meme in a new book.

Robin Cassell, who lives near Poole, and Dr Richard Hobbs, from near Dorchester, feature hundreds of examples of the satirical “Mulready Caricatures” in the book.

The caricatures, which can now change hands for up to £50,000 each, came about after a pre-paid envelope was launched on May 6, 1840 – at the same time as the first stamps, the Penny Black and Two Penny Blue.

The envelope featured a design by artist William Mulready intended to promote the British postal reforms.

But the depiction of Britannia dispatching winged messengers to the colonies was widely ridiculed in newspapers and by

their readers.

In turn, entrepreneurs and stationers created envelopes which became known as “Mulready Caricatures”, featuring caricatures mocking the establishment.

The caricatures, many coloured in by hand, became instantly popular, but the short-lived craze had died out by early 1841.

The authors, both fellows of

the Royal Philatelic Society, have more than 1,600 examples of the caricatures and associated pictorial envelopes in their two-volume book, The Mulready Caricature.

Robin said: “In 1840 Sir Rowland Hill introduced the penny post with the 1d Black and 2d Blue stamps.

“He also commissioned Irish artist William Mulready – an associate of the Royal Academy – to create a design for the pre-paid envelope.

“It was launched on May 6 and newspapers ridiculed it because it was deemed pompous and over the top. Their readers also joined in.

“Hill quickly realised the design was being lampooned and wrote: ‘I fear we shall have to substitute some other stamp for that design by Mulready...the public have shown their disregard and even distaste for

beauty.’

“What happened next was like an internet meme of today. Stationers, book sellers and printers immediately began issuing their own satirical envelopes – the start of the Mulready Caricature.

“The first known example of this was sent to Mulready himself who appeared to have received it in good humour because he kept it.

“By early 1841 the craze of the caricatures had died out after the introduction of the more sombre penny pink envelope.

“Collectors and enthusiasts have traditionally looked down on Mulready Caricatures, but in recent years their values have rocketed.

“It’s a good area to collect because there are examples that you can find for £100, but an incredibly rare one might swap hands for £50,000.”

The book, The Mulready Caricature, is published by The Royal Philatelic Society.

Fern Brook Lodge residents listen to racing driver’s talk

Residents at Fern Brook Lodge care home in Gillingham were thrilled to meet racing driver, Mike Wilds, who gave a talk about his career. This was a return trip for Mike who visited the care home earlier this year to meet resident, Joy, in response to the home’s ‘Make a Wish’ initiative. This enables Fern Brook Lodge residents to pursue a hobby or interest that they may not otherwise be able to enjoy without the support of the care home team. For Joy, her wish was to meet a racing driver and Mike was happy to help. Following his first visit, Joy invited Mike to return to the home to talk about some of the highlights of his career with the other residents.

Fern Brook Lodge, which is part of the not-for-profit charity, Care South, provides residential, respite, and dementia care. A dedicated activities team organise a daily programme of events to bring residents together to socialise and build friendships.

Action-packed August

AUGUST has already been a busy month for the ladies of Blandford Evening WI.

The August outing was to the beautiful city of Wells, where in glorious sunshine, the ladies wandered around the gorgeous gardens of the Bishops Palace, wondered at the hydroponic genius of the water system and admired the magnificent mediaeval architecture of the Palace.

Tea was taken in the Square, which was made familiar by being the background for the hilarious British comedy Hot Fuzz

A leisurely walk back through the shops to the minibus rounded off a thoroughly

The next day some of the Ladies met again at a free flower arranging workshop run by Blandford and District Floral Group as an introduction to the Art of the Blossom.

Everyone produced a creditable piece of work with individual flair using a basic design and each went home with a delightful display.

More information can be found on Blandford Evening WI’s Facebook Page.

And information on the Blandford and District Floral Group can be found on their own Facebook page.

Fete accompli

A PARISH fete has generated more than £2,000 for local churches.

Belchalwell, Ibberton and Woolland villages gathered for the annual hillside parishes fete on Saturday, August 3.

The dog show attracted a lot of entries.

New this year was the flower show, which was a roaring success. It had great support with a good amount of entries.

In total the fete raised over £2,000, which is divided between the three churches.

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More hospital helpers needed

HOSPITAL volunteers are needed across Somerset as Marie Curie announces expansion.

Marie Curie, the UK’s leading end of life charity, has announced that its Marie Curie Companions service will expand to cover community hospitals across Somerset.

For almost 10 years, a small but dedicated team of volunteers (Marie Curie Companions) have been a beacon of hope and comfort, offering companionship, emotional support, and a reassuring presence to palliative and end of life patients and their families at Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton.

Thanks to a new agreement between Marie Curie and Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, Marie Curie Companions will soon be available at community hospitals throughout

Somerset, ensuring that more patients and families can benefit from the invaluable support.

New sites include Bridgwater, Burnham, Crewkerne, Frome, Minehead, South Petherton, West Mendip, Williton and Wincanton.

Vicki Burgess, ward sister on Eliot ward at Musgrove Park

Hospital, said: “The Marie Curie companion service is so important to all the patients we care for at the hospital, especially for those elderly patients we care for on Eliot ward. We’re so excited that the service is now being extended to our community hospitals, which will mean even more patients will be able to benefit from this wonderful care.”

To support this expansion, Marie Curie is now seeking compassionate individuals to join its team of volunteers in Somerset.

Marina Parrett, along with her pets as therapy dog Dudley, is one of the Marie Curie Companions at Musgrove Park Hospital. She said:

“My role as a hospital companion may involve listening, sharing a story, holding a hand or simply letting them know you are there and

that they are not alone at what may be a frightening or lonely time in their life. I often think this is what I would want especially if nearing end of life.

Julie Draper, Marie Curie volunteer coordinator, said:

“Volunteers will receive comprehensive training to equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to provide high-quality support. If you’ve got some time you could spare and would like to make a real difference to people at the end of their lives, then please consider getting in touch. We also have some voluntary roles you can do over the phone from home.”

If you’d like to become a Marie Curie Companion, please email julie.draper@mariecurie. org.uk or call 07921 278893. For more information please visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/ companions

Ballet Under the Stars 15th Year Anniversary

Four nights of magical performances in one of England’s most beautiful theatres

It is not often that the British Summer gives us four consecutive nights of warm, sunny evenings but this year, for the 15th anniversary of Hatch House, it did just that. Maybe it was to honour the exquisite performances given by the young and brilliant cast in Hatch House’s wonderful and iconic walled garden, either way it made this year even more special.

The cast and programme were given a standing ovation each evening, Guests were treated to three world premieres by two extremely talented upcoming young choreographers and an improvised work by Ksenia Ovsyanick to live cello, played by Arne-Christian Pelz, First Principal Cellist of Deutsche Oper. Ksenia was celebrating her tenth appearance at Ballet Under the Stars, she has also created work that has premiered at Hatch over the last decade.

The programme offered not only new work but also works by two of ballet’s greatest, Sir Frederick Ashton and George Balanchine which were performed for the first time on the Harlequin Stage.

“It has been a privilege to be part of this 15 year journey. To have met and worked with so many incredible people is so unique that you have to occasionally pinch yourself to make sure you’re not dreaming,” Matt Brady, Director of Covent Garden Dance.

Brady’s 15th Anniversary programme reflected and celebrated the diversity of works performed over the past decade and a half on the Harlequin Stage. It offered, as it seemingly always does... a mouth-watering mixed bill that this year included animation, poetry, improvisation interspersed with classical pas de deux’s as well as a contemporary cross-over. The live cellist accompaniment was a sensation and no doubt will be an element that will now become a feature at future Ballet Under the Stars.

These were without doubt certainly four nights to remember for all that attended.

Inspiring A New Generation

The Dress Rehearsal has built a momentum of its own. Held the day before the ballet’s first night as the dancers have just arrived and warm up on the stage, getting used to their new ‘theatre’, rehearsing their steps. These open childrens’ rehearsals are a magnet for young dancers and this year we had a record attendance, in fact it was so popular a waiting list was in operation. The open rehearsals are in aid of the Dicky Buckle Fund, a charity set up to help young dancers and choreographers and to inspire an interest in dance through education.

Beatrice Parma and Max Maslen, La Fille Mal Gardee Ballet Under the Stars 2024 Hatch House

Ksenia Ovsyanick. Limelight. Cellist Arne-Christian Pelz Ballet Under the Stars 2024

Viola Pantuso and Marco Masciari, The Royal Ballet, at Ballet Under the Stars Dress Rehearsal

Viola Pantuso and Marco Masciari. The Lighthouse. NEW WORK Calvin Richardson - Ballet Under the Stars 2024

All photographs taken by Alice Pennefather

Kateryna Chebykina and Xander Parish. Scheherazade Ballet Under the Stars, 2024

Grace Noelle and Andrew Parfitt. Masterpiece. NEW WORK by James Bamford. Ballet Under the Stars 2024

SHAFTESBURY EMPORIUM, Fridays 16 & 30 August, Saturdays 17 & 31 August, 9 - 4.30pm, Shaftesbury Town Hall, Lots of lovely items for sale under one roof. Supporting Weldmar Hospice and Dorset Somerset Air Ambulance, FREE ENTRY

LYN’S BINGO at Marnhull

Royal British Legion on Monday 19th August Eyes down 7pm

WINCANTON & DISTRICT GARDENERS ASSN. Flower Show

Saturday 7th September Memorial Hall Wincanton Doors Open 2pm Refreshments Available www.wincantongardeners.co.uk

11 5

BINGO!

Stalbridge Hall Thursday 29th August

FRIDAY AUGUST 30thCHAPS AGM & FUN QUIZ from 7pm at the Village Hall, Charlton Horethorne. BYOB and snacks to share

CREAM TEAS

Produce stall and Live Music on 24th. August from 2.30. 5.00 At Sixpenny Handley St Mary’s church SP5 5NJ

TABLE TOP SALE.

CREAM TEAS BY THE RIVER Every Sunday in August for St George’s Church 2:30- 4:30 Damerham Village Hall SP6 3HW

The choir begins its new term Monday, 2nd September 2024 under our enthusiastic Musical Director, Richard Nye.

The choir begins its new term Monday, 8th January 2024 under our new enthusiastic Musical Director, Richard Nye

New members are very welcome, in all voices.

Why join our SATB choir?

New members are very welcome, in all voices

Why join our SATB choir?

Saturday 17th August 10.00 - 1.00 RBL Hall, Shaftesbury. Tables £5. Proceeds to poppy appeal. Sellers from 9.00am. To book a table phone Jo on 01747 853935.

We are a long-established amateur choir, based in Gillingham, singing a wide range of choral music, some sacred and some secular. No auditions necessary…Make new friends... Rehearsals MONDAY from: at Wyke Primary School Deane Ave, Gillingham SP8 4SH

GARAGE SALE, 17th-18th

August, 10am-4pm. at TA36AN, Curry Mallet. Quantity of woodworking and other tools. sundries, other items including, gents/ladies cycle.

We are a long-established amateur choir, based in Gillingham, singing a wide range of choral music, some sacred and some secular. No auditions necessary…Make new friends... Rehearsals MONDAY from: 7:15pm - 9:00pm at Wyke Primary School

Deane Ave, Gillingham SP8 4SH Carole Brooks: 07572786416

The New

Thechoirbegins January2024 Newmembers

Blackmore Vale Magazine

DEADLINES

Weare

Doors open 6.30pm

40

Eyes down 7.30pm In aid of hall funds 90

64 22

There is a pre 1970’s theme, dress up and join in- prize for the best dressed.

CRAFTS ON THE MEADOW – SATURDAY 24th AUGUST 10-15.30 – GILLINGHAM HANDMADE, On the Town Meadow Gillingham Dorset, a lovely selection of handmade stalls, all selling high quality unique products.

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.

GARTELL LIGHT RAILWAY is a narrow gauge railway located in the scenic Blackmore Vale Countryside in Yenston. We are opening to the public this year for an additional 4 days during the month of August. We would love to see you all there!

SPETISBURY CHURCH & VILLAGE FETE and Dog Show

Saturday 7th September

12 – 4 p.m. At Spetisbury Manor DT11 9EB

Everyone welcome, come and join the fun! £1 adults, children under 16 free

Harriet Sandys

Oriental Carpets and Decorative Items from Central Asia and India.

Closing Down Sale

Saturday 24th, Sunday 25th & Monday 26th August 2pm-5pm

10% off oriental carpets, kilims, carved wood furniture and textiles. Greater reductions on old stock of carpets.

The Barn at The Manor House, West Compton, Shepton Mallet BA4 4PB - Signposted from A361

The barn is also available by appointment throughout August Tel: 01749 890 582 Mobile: 07522658079

BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY 26th AUGUST

Alweston Car Boot Sale, Bank Holiday Monday 26th August. Sellers 7am, Buyers before 7.30am - £5, Buyers - by Donation. Info: Facebook page: Alweston Car Boot Sale.

Events

BRUTON & DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY’S

Annual Show No 99 will be held on Saturday, August 17th, 2024 in the Sports Hall, King’s School, Bruton. Exhibitors from 8.00 am - 10.30 am, general public from 2.30 pm - 5.00 pm

Harriet Sandys Closing Down Sale

Sadly, Harriet Sandys is closing down her oriental carpet business in the 17th century restored cider barn in West Compton near Shepton Mallet. Harriet started her business importing handwoven Afghan rugs in the early 1980’s while working with Afghan refugees in Pakistan’s north-west Frontier and over the past twenty years the barn became a veritable treasure trove of wonderful and unusual oriental textiles and gifts. Carved wood chests and tables from the mountain villages of Swat in northern Pakistan, the fabulous assortment of handwoven silk scarves, block printed tablecloths, quilted bed spreads, cushions and throws from India, Persian and Afghan carpets will be reduced in price. On sale too are colourful animal felt slippers for children, block printed cotton kaftans and jackets, dressing gowns, nightwear, table lamps, gold and silver semi-precious stone earrings made by craftsmen living in the desert villages of Rajasthan and antique silver Turkoman jewellery from Afghanistan.

The barn is open this August Bank Holiday weekend for the last time. Also open by appointment.

Directions www.sandysorientalcarpets.co.uk. Signposted from A361.

The Barn at the Manor House, West Compton, Shepton Mallet BA4 4PB.Tel 01749 890 582

Events

DONHEAD ST ANDREW

A LL W E AT HE R FETE

BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY

26TH AUGUST 2024, 1PM - 4.30PM

STONEY HILLS FIELD, SANS LANE, SP7 9LL (just off A30)

Bric A Brac | Cakes, Preserves & Chutneys | Books Plants | Pictures & Frames | Clothes & Handbags

Toys & Games | Jewellery | Records, CDs & DVDs

BBQ | Cream Teas | Beer & Cider | Ice Creams

China Smash | Skittles | Coconut Shy

Bottle Tombola | Auction of Logs

Punch & Judy | Merry-Go-Round | Alpacas | Bonsai

The Sunset Cafe Stompers

ANNUAL DOG SHOW CLASSIC CAR & BIKE SHOW 3.30pm 1.00pm - 4.30pm

Family Fun for Everyone!

This annual fete is regarded as one of the best traditional village fetes in Wiltshire and Dorset, as well as being one of the best-attended.

In 2023 the Fete attracted nearly 2,000 visitors, drawn from across the other local communities and a good number from further afield.

Over 200 villagers from the Donhead St Andrew are involved in putting on the Fete.

gifts, jewellery, CDs, DVDs & records, and much more!

BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY 26th August 10 - 4pm MOYLES COURT SCHOOL Nr Ringwood BH24 3NF

Artisans | Vintage | French Brocante

Textiles | Lifestyle & Homewares

Local Artisan Foodies | Dogs Welcome Free Parking

For more details or to buy tickets, please visit: www.thedorsetbrocante.co.uk

Selling stalls at the Fete are always very well-stocked and include bric a brac, cakes & biscuits, preserves & chutneys, plants & gardening, smart clothes, handbags, books, paintings & frames, toys,

It all adds up to an afternoon of fun and enjoyment for all ages and the Fete supports very worthy county and local causes.

This year, the local causes and charities include both Wiltshire and Dorset Air Ambulance Services, Salisbury Hospice, Tisbus, Happy Gathering and St Andrew’s Church to support its work in the local community.

Come along whatever the weather; a large part of the Fete is under cover.

The Summer Brocante

The perfect way to end the summer with a visit to this beautiful home and lifestyle fair hosted by The Dorset Brocante at Moyles Court, nr Ringwood. We are delighted to be hosting this event in the sublime setting of Moyles Court in the New Forest.

With some of the very best Exhibitors offering French Brocante, vintage wares, decorative antiques, textiles, jewellery, stationery, slow fashion, plants, flowers and artisan homewares. Local artisan foodies will be serving fresh coffee and delicious food all day.

The gates open at 10am on Bank Holiday Monday 26th August, where you’ll find the stalls set out on the lawns and in the historic courtyard. Entry is £7:50 for adults, U14 free. Tickets can be bought in advance or on the gate. Dogs on leads are welcome and there is free parking on site and accessible facilities.

Moyles Court is located between Ringwood and Salisbury just off the A31 and A338.

For more details or to book advance tickets, please visit www.thedorsetbrocante.co.uk Advertising Feature

Live music at the Duke of Somerset’s

Join us for a Sundowner with live music set within the historic grounds of the Duke of Somerset’s estate.

estate

Flo Gunstone will performing a 2 hour set at the Bradley Hare a village pub and hotel that is the go to coaching house that you need to know about and experience. Flo will be performing from 6-8pm in the pub’s converted stable block just in front of the exquisite gardens in the grounds of the pub in the beautiful village of Maiden Bradley.

Join us for sounds and seasonal foody fayre – we thrive on bringing the flora and fauna to our dishes for experiences that are truly delightful.

The Bradley Hare is a traditional village pub with rooms. We invite you to taste local beers, delicious wines and cocktails, enjoy exceptional food, and unwind in elegantly appointed rooms characterised by high ceilings, bay windows, and 19th century furnishings. Come see and stay a while…

PYO SUNFLOWERS.

Sunflowers at Blandford is open Wednesdays to Sundays throughout August. PYO Sunflowers, play area and refreshments. Located on Littleton Drove off the A354 out of Blandford. Free entry.

Sunflowers at Blandford on Facebook and instagram

Letters

Pie in the sky thinking on A303 traffic

THOSE celebrating the axing of the Stonehenge tunnel have a completely pie-in-the-sky answer to the problems of the A303 – “better managed local traffic” and “improved rail access to the south west”.

This is no real solution to the traffic that leaves the A303 in desperation and tries to find routes through local villages, nor is travelling by train on the two relevant lines any help to families in cars heading for a multitude of holiday destinations nowhere near a station, or to the heavy commercial lorries on what is one of the major routes between London and the south west.

The campaigners seem to think that somehow life is going to revert to previous centuries when far fewer people were on the roads, and when they were, they travelled picturesquely by horse and cart.

As for the hysterical claim by Tom Holland that the scheme would have “driven a gash of concrete and Tarmac through our most sacred prehistoric landscape”, this is quite simply mendacious, given that the whole point was to put traffic out of sight in a tunnel, thus restoring the visual integrity of the landscape setting above ground.

Roger White Sherborne

Is south west levelling down?

£1.7 billion sounds like a lot of money and a saving well worth having, if one takes a single year view on the cancellation of the A303 tunnel.

In any single year the south west’s economy is the fifth largest in England and Wales GDP profile at £180bn. So, the saving is just 1% of that overall GDP, to repeat, in just one year. In terms of annual revenues raised in the south west, the

£1.7bn is about 2%.

Taken over the lifespan of such an investment as the A303 tunnel, which might be expected to last at least 20 years before major servicing is needed, the 2% of revenue – tax receipts –tumbles to 0.1% of the south west’s contribution, not factoring in a modest projected 1-2% annual growth.

Now layer on top of this the significant new house building targets just imposed on the region over the next five years and we have a formula for something of an economic boom – yet hold on, or is it a hold-up, we have significant infrastructure issues.

Train and rail freight is a fraction of what it could be, bus services are pitiful outside of main cities and broadband is still in catch-up. We are highly dependent on roads, more so than other regions.

Let’s add another layer, wages. The median salary is £33,450 in the south west compared to £34,963 in the UK, a difference of around £1,500 or about 4.5% below the national level.

In 2022 a major report by the University of Exeter highlighted that the south west had one of biggest social mobility challenges due to poor educational attainment. Educational attainment and wages are intrinsically linked across generations.

Levelling-up was the fad a few months ago and then we had a change of government which has a new mantra – growing the economy. Great – let’s have some of that! Sad fact is that without the major arterial road network investment in improving the A303, this region is being consigned to the slow lane for what strategically is an investment representing a miniscule fraction of the potential long-term sustainable economic growth upside.

I suggest the decision to cancel the A303 is as much political – wrong sort of voters – as it is a monetary item. The long-term impact to this region will further embed multiple inbuilt adverse differentials as we are, to misquote one politician, “definitely not all in this together”.

And frankly, if one needs to save £1.7bn, then to put the cat among the pigeons, why not trim the overseas aid budget that currently runs at about £13bn a year. Spending UK cash at home where we can guarantee the investment will translate immediately into economic uplifts, allowing us in future to be more generous to others, having first fixed our own systemic issues that blight lives in communities such as those of the south west.

Mike Madgwick Via email

Activists would rather live in past

I WAS very unhappy with the front page of the New Blackmore Vale’s August 2 edition as I think the headline should have read: “Traffic queue misery continues for thousands of travellers as A303 tunnel is axed”.

The tunnel option was supposed to have been developed to appease the activists who wanted no sight of the road near the ancient monument.

But their “only solution is no solution” approach has just cost the taxpayers huge sums dealing with multiple enquiries, road schemes, surveys and legal challenges.

It is a shame the Government has not listened to the many thousands of travellers that have to grind their way in queues along this stretch of road.

The A303 is an arterial highway vital for the economy of the south west of England,

and instead of considering the 21st century needs of the larger population, the Chancellor, who in the Labour election manifesto promised to promote economic development, has bowed to the loud voices of a small group of activists who would rather live in the past.

Paul Hawkins Templecombe

Column struck

the wrong note

WHAT a contrast between the post-election posts – New Blackmore Vale, July 19 – of the two local Tory MPs.

Magnanimous, constructive and appreciative from Simon Hoare – sour, bitter and misleading from Dr Murrison.

The “bad state of the 2010 economy” was a result of the US Sub Prime scandal from which Rishi Sunak’s family made huge profits.

Interestingly, last month it was announced that £1.39 billion had been written off by the Tories after failing to ensure the safe storage of PPE supplies. £700 million has also been wasted on the utterly inept Rwanda policy with little hope of any of it being recovered.

Roland Britain Gillingham

Parents must play part in education

MIKE Keatinge – Letters, New Blackmore Vale, August 2 – is right in part.

The Reception class lays so many lifetime mores. Sadly, one of the equal issues is the parents. Prisons are full of inmates unable themselves to read or write.

While it might be argued that society has failed them, equally it is the parent who has failed the child.

Education needs to have the required remit that every child

leaves primary school confident in – to date me – the 3Rs. This is the scaffolding required for any employment remit.

Parents may be busy, both of necessity in employment, or worse, neither.

It is their duty as parents to encourage, assist and be involved in the child’s education.

Giving a tablet/Gameboy etc, is not an aid to education.

James Bishop Wincanton

New homes could hit health services

WHAT will the impact be of 650 houses – about 2,000 additional people – on health care in Wincanton?

How long will you wait for a face-to-face doctor’s appointment, a telephone appointment with a doctor –whether the doctor is local or via the NHS app, an appointment with a practice nurse, a telephone appointment with a practice nurse, a telephone appointment with a clinician, an appointment with an NHS or private dentist?

How long will you wait for a check-up? How long will you wait for treatment?

Do we want longer waiting times for treatment?

Margaret Grant Via email

Bloom event a great success

WIMBORNE in Bloom Open Gardens Day in June has been deemed another success story.

Twenty gardens were open from 11am- 5pm.

Although the final figures are yet to be confirmed, nearly £5,000 will have been raised for Wimborne in Bloom funds with the total rising to more than £8,000 when the May event and associated donations are taken into account.

All this will go towards the provision of plants for the flower towers, planters and hanging baskets around the centre of town and their watering until the

end of summer.

Wimborne in Bloom’s next event is the duck race on August Bank Holiday Saturday – August 24.

Tickets will be on sale in the town in the days running up to the race.

Wimborne Gardening Club will not meet in August, but the late summer show will be on Saturday, August 31, in the Allendale Centre Quarterjack Room.

The September meeting moves to the new venue of St Catherine’s Church Hall at Rodways Corner on Monday, September 2, at 7.30pm when Neil Lucas from Knoll Gardens will provide an informative talk on Using Perennials in the Modern Garden.

Knoll Gardens are renowned for being the UK’s ornamental grass specialists, so we are sure to gain an insight into a plethora of knowledge!

Anthony Oliver MBE Wimborne

Drive slowly entering village

I LIVE in Stour Provost and the B3092 runs at the top of the village.

Coming out of the village is a frightening experience as, despite looking right, left and then right again and, of course, checking the road is clear, a fast car will suddenly appear – and it is not unusual for the driver of the fast-moving car to decide you are not going fast enough and will stick to your bumper.

This is really unpleasant and, of course, dangerous.

The road from East Stour to Todber is a lovely long stretch and I can see why drivers would wish to drive at the maximum speed of 60mph, but I would ask my fellow New Blackmore Vale magazine readers who drive on this road to drive more slowly past the entrance to Stour Provost.

I would also hope, and have written to Dorset Council to ask, that some form of speed restriction for the section of the B3092 which passes the

entrance to Stour Provost could be introduced.

Ruth Alexander Via email

Thank you for helping wife

I WOULD like to say a big thank you to all those incredible people who were there for my wife on Wednesday, July 31.

Pam was in Wimborne shopping and had just left our daughter and grandchildren when she did not feel well and sat down on the bench in the square and used her spray.

She considered getting the bus home but decided not to.

After a short while she went into Nationwide and sat down, and one of the staff came out to see if she was okay.

Realising that she was not improving, they not only called for an ambulance, but as my wife did not have her mobile with her, contacted our daughter.

I was out volunteering with a local charity when I got the message and rushed to Poole.

A special thank you to the ladies at Nationwide, the ambulance crew at Wimborne and all the staff at Poole Hospital for all that you did.

Our most grateful thanks to you all.

Pam & Les Golding Via email

Train service is failing travellers

TODAY – Monday, July 29 –when the children’s school holidays have started, one has to ask if it is beyond the capability of the train service to organise the trains to run efficiently.

By all accounts it was mayhem at Pen Mill this morning with train disruption.

Trains to Weymouth had only two carriages available –packed to capacity so that no-one could get on.

I received reliable information that there were very many people on the platform with only one option – to wait a further two hours for the next

train. This service is woefully not meeting the needs of the travelling public.

Gwenda Cliff Via email

Does football play fair?

Footballers today try to be virtuous

Marcus Rashford fed some kids for free

And all the players fight

To level black and white

By kicking racists out – just with their knee !

They claim the goal they head for is equality

A level playing field with life more fair

But strangely we see That instead of charity They mostly spend their money – on their hair !

And can they truly champion the poor

When zillions in their banks each week they put?

It really seems to me They don’t tackle poverty They simply shoot themselves... in the foot !!

Martin Hobdell Swanage

‘Flower up’ the high street

I LOVE seeing the beautiful flower displays and hanging baskets in Wimborne.

Many of the town’s streets look beautiful – with the sad exception of the high street which only has a few baskets. Is there a reason for this? It seems a shame given the burst of colour and vibrancy elsewhere in the town.

I have also noticed that the banks along the rivers running through Wimborne are overgrown and do not seem to be maintained as well as they once were, which is a real pity.

I hope these issues can be rectified soon so the town can look its beautiful best again.

Leigh Greenhalgh Oakley Hill

Affordable art all for a good cause

GOOD causes are set to benefit from an “Affordable Art Exhibition & Sale” in Poundbury next week.

The pictures are by professional artist Rod Kay, who was preparing paintings for a large exhibition of his work when he died suddenly last year.

Rod believed art ought to be uplifting and original and be available to everyone to have in their own homes.

Now his Poundbury-based family, Tim and Kay, are mounting the exhibition in the Jubilee Hall between Thursday and Sunday, August 22-25, 10am-4pm.

Many of the paintings have never been offered for sale because they held a special meaning for Rod – an unusual angle on a well-known location, a view he found interesting, a

new style or technique well executed or simply a piece he cherished.

Rod devoted much of his spare time to helping people in difficulty, inspiring people to appreciate art and encouraging disabled people and the elderly to take up a brush.

The 200 works of art in the exhibition will be for sale at affordable prices, from £35£275, and the funds raised will go to the following local charities, projects and

initiatives: Age UK North, South, West, Dorset; Food Share – local food bank; The Talk About Trust – keeping young people safe; People Need Nature – Poundbury Conservation and Wellbeing Project; Damers School Values Installation Project; Cycling Without Age – free trishaw rides providing special experiences; Discover and Connect – social activities for disabled and lonely people; Art in Poundbury –Creative Community projects; Dorset County Hospital Charity’s Emergency and Critical Care Appeal.

The work of these charities will be showcased in the hall during the exhibition.

Several of the paintings could be won in the raffle, along with generous prizes given by local businesses.

Entrance and parking are free, and refreshments will be available for a donation.

For more information, email affordable.artpoundbury@ gmail.com

TRIBUTE show Beatlemania is coming to the Allendale Centre in Wimborne next weekend.

The band, staging a new show for 2024/25, are also currently performing as the cast in the hit production The Magic of The Beatles.

The first section of the show is dedicated to the The Beatles breakthrough 60 years ago in 1964 and their first film and album, A Hard Day’s Night It continues with all their greatest hits, including She Loves You, I Want To Hold Your Hand, I Feel Fine, Help!, Day Tripper, Yellow Submarine, All You Need Is Love, Hey Jude, Something, Get Back and more.

The two-hour show traces the band from their mop-top beginnings to the psychedelic highs of Sgt Pepper and beyond.

Beatlemania is on Saturday, August 24, and tickets cost £19 – plus booking fee – from theallendale.org.

HITS OF MOTOWN: ROY G HEMMINGS

& SHOUT

One of Rod Kay’s paintings

Bookshop brings authors and artists to town

AN award-winning naturethemed bookshop based on Shaftesbury’s iconic Gold Hill has announced an autumn events programme featuring some of the country’s top nature writers and illustrators.

FOLDE Dorset, which earlier this year was awarded Independent Bookshop of the Year for the South West at the British Book Awards, is once again collaborating with the Grosvenor Arms to host a series of talks on subjects as wideranging as composting and human-animal conversation.

The authors appearing at the Grosvenor include:

Double Wainwright Prize winner John Lewis-Stempel, who will be sharing his magnum opus, England: A Natural History, a five-year project that offers a unique and intimate account of the landscapes that define England.

‘No dig’ gardening guru Charles Dowding looking behind the many myths and misconceptions surrounding composting.

Award-winning garden writer, broadcaster and television presenter Kate Bradbury sharing how she’s taking a stand against the

climate crisis through her own garden.

Dr Luke Thompson speaking about his entertainingly titled book DomadomadomaBlumblumblum, a playful exploration of human-animal conversation.

Writer, campaigner and conservation biologist Ruby Free sharing her account of working on an RSPB reserve on Rathlin Island.

“Punk undertaker” Ru Callender discussing his deeply moving and critically acclaimed book about life, death and the end-of-life experience, What Remains?

Writer and conservationist Carol Donaldson in conversation about finding community within a group of countryside conservation volunteers.

Kat Hill, who will be sharing her love for wild mountain shelters as explored through her 2024 Wainwright-longlisted book, Bothy. For the first time this autumn, a number of artists will appear as part of FOLDE’s programme of talks, each of them having a strong connection with the natural world.

Angela Harding is a well

Choir recruiting

DURWESTON Choral Society opens its 2024/25 season with rehearsals starting on Wednesday, September 4, at 7pm in Durweston Village Hall.

The society will present a candlelit concert in Durweston Parish Church on Saturday, November 30, featuring Bob Chilcott’s On Christmas Night, together with a selection of other seasonal pieces.

Arts & Entertainment

known and much loved printmaker whose new book Still Waters & Wild Waves is out this autumn.

Richard Shimell, a printmaker with a significant online following, will be speaking about his debut book, Trees in Winter, which captures the intricate beauty of British trees in the colder months.

Beatrice Forshall, a drypoint engraving artist, will reveal her stunning homage to the planet’s most mysterious, bizarre and wondrous creatures and plants, The Book of Vanishing Species

Craftsperson Nick Kary, author of Material, will be discussing what it means to make things with your hands in a digital age.

FOLDE’s co-director, Amber Harrison, said: “It’s been fun to broaden the scope of our talks programme this autumn in a way that complements the focus

of our shop, where we also sell nature-inspired art and traditional craft alongside the books.”

“We firmly believe that art has an important role to play in helping people to feel more closely connected with nature.”

FOLDE co-director, Karen Brazier, added: “Both our recent award and the strength of our previous events programmes have helped to put us on the radar with publishers.

“Thanks to the continuing support of our host venue, the Grosvenor Arms, we’re able to offer Shaftesbury residents access to top-flight authors at an affordable price. It really is one of the most satisfying aspects of running our shop.”

For details of the full programme, go to www. foldedorset.com/events, or pick up a flyer from FOLDE or the Grosvenor Arms.

The Spring Concert on Saturday, March 22, will be Rossini’s Petite Messe Solennelle

The society is recruiting singers in all sections of the choir and a special, heavily discounted membership rate is available for new members this season only.

For details, contact John Graham at jgedcf@talktalk.net

TENOR Gregory Steward will be presenting an evening of light classics and songs from the shows at St Mary’s Church, Charminster, later this month in aid of church funds. Gregory was a vocal scholar at Wells Cathedral School and graduated from the Welsh College of Music and Drama in 2022 with a first class honours degree. He is now a classically trained tenor.

He has given many concerts in the south west and as well as popular opera classics, his programme has included a range of work from musicals such as Carousel, South Pacific and Les Miserables.

The concert is on Friday, August 30, at 7pm and tickets, priced £10 – wine and nibbles included, and children free of charge – are available from 01305 213403 and 07795 347408.

“No dig” gardening guru Charles Dowding is just one of the authors appearing in FOLDE Dorset’s programme of talks at the Grosvenor Arms, Shaftesbury, this autumn

Cryptic crossword

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

Killer Sudoku Pro

Across

1 Quiet sister after treatment to continue steadfastly (7)

5 Swindle namely by Welsh politician (4)

10 Old Republican round court with award in part of autumn (7)

11 Husband with female relative making visit (5)

12 Volume on Irish poetry (5)

Killer Sudoku Pro

13 Northern Arab with argument that’s limited (6)

Down

sister after treatment to

2 Apple in festival with sun out (5)

3 Urban set near works operating underground (12)

4 Move at speed showing editions back to front (6)

6 Measure of charge for all to see with line by fantastic combo (7)

7 Partner in room at exhibition (4)

15 Comment about gospel writer (6)

17 Bachelor entertained by Canadian singer in glass dome (6)

19 Martial arts actor with cold close to some risk (6)

20 Store and house on a road (5)

23 Eccentric came to tour Cuba, much-visited place (5)

24 Special thing that indicates finch-like bird (7)

25 Large basin in armed vehicle (4)

26 Whole number at home recalled film by German (7)

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

8 Change right-winger with green in Paris

9 Entire trade show mentioned in public way (12)

14 Rental property on hill brings disappointment (3-4)

16 Second chain after renovation offering distinctive hairstyle (7)

18 Reduce period in school, we’re told (6)

21 Reach accord with engineers in time (5)

22 Leave out award with computing etc (4)

Church

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

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

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

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

• Cheap Street Church, Sherborne: Taizé Service – half an hour of prayer, meditation and music on the second Sunday each month at 6.30pm. Everyone welcome. Next service Sunday, September 8.

• Cheap Street Church Hall, Sherborne: Dorset Youth for Christ ‘Youth Hangout’, a space for young people aged six-11 in Sherborne to connect with others their age, play games and explore the Christian faith. Every second Sunday of the month, 6.30-7.30pm.

• Damerham Village Hall (SP6 3HN): Cream teas by the river every Sunday in August, 2.30pm-4.30pm in aid of St George’s Church.

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

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

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

• Kingston Lacy: Second Sunday of the month, 9.15am Holy Communion. Fourth Sunday of the month, 9.15am Family Service.

• Two Rivers Benefice: Sunday,

August 18 – 9.30am Communion at St John The Baptist, Spetisbury; 9.30am Family Service at St Mary’s Church, Charlton Marshall; 11am Morning Worship at All Saints, Langton Long; 11am Communion at All Saints Church Tarrant Keynston. Sunday, August 25 – 9.30am Communion at St Mary’s Church, Charlton Marshall; 9.30am Morning Worship at St John The Baptist, Spetisbury; 11am BCP Communion at St Mary’s Church, Tarrant Crawford; 11am Communion at All Saints, Langton Long. Coffee and cake – Spetisbury 10am-11.30am first and third Monday each month; coffee and cake – Blandford St Mary 10am – 11.30am, August 22. Coffee stop – Charlton Marshall Parish Centre 10.30am-12.30pm –Tuesday to Friday. Every Thursday, Morning Prayer by Zoom, 9am – contact Jane Griffin for more information.

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

• Longburton Village Cafe: The cafe provides tea, coffee –free refills – and great cakes for just £2 at the village church of St James. Tuesdays August 13 and 27 from 10.30am-noon.

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

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

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

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

• Sherborne Abbey: Monday to Saturday, 8.30am Morning Prayer; The Sepulchre Chapel. Mondays, 9am CW Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Tuesday, noon CW Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Wednesday, 10.30am Holy

Communion with Homily; The Lady Chapel (alternates CW and BCP). Thursday, noon BCP Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Friday, 9am Ecumenical Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. First Friday of the month, 9am Requiem Holy Communion; The Sepulchre Chapel. Third Friday of the month, 11am Remembering the Fallen. Saturday, 9am CW Holy Communion; The Sepulchre Chapel.

• Sherborne Abbey: It is hoped to recruit several new volunteer guardians for the abbey to meet and greet visitors. Just one fixed hour a fortnight. Training will be given. Anyone interested or who knows someone who might be, should email sue.morgan@ sherborneabbey.com or phone 01935 873104.

• Sherborne Abbey Julian Group: An opportunity to share half an hour’s silence and meditation with fellow Christians. Meetings are ecumenical and very refreshing. The next meeting is on Wednesday, September 11, in the Lady Chapel, from 4pm4.30pm.

• Sherborne Abbey: Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer abbey shop assistant – training will be given – the commitment is only two hours a week – should contact Chris Hamon – Chris.Hamon@ sherborneabbey.com – or see Chris in the abbey. The shop is now being overseen by the Friends of Sherborne Abbey and is extending its ranges of gifts and cards

• Sherborne Abbey flower team: Anyone interested in joining the team to arrange flowers in the abbey about once a month, should contact Barbara Fifield on 01935 813869 or email bafifield@hotmail.com

• Sherborne Quakers: Meet Sundays 10.30am in the Griffiths Room, Digby Memorial Church Hall. Everyone welcome. For more information, phone Nick on 07870 192599.

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

• St Gregory’s, Marnhull: Sunday services 8am and 10am. Other services, visit www. stgregorysmarnhull.org.uk. Afternoon tea in Marnhull Village Hall (DT10 1PP) on Bank Holiday Monday, August 26, from 2pm-5pm. Homebaked afternoon tea with family and friends! Tombola, raffle and cake stalls, and live music. A fun-draising event!

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

• St Luke’s Church, West Orchard (Shaftesbury Benefice) SP7 0LJ: September 8, Holy Communion 11.15am. Prayer and fellowship in the village church – everyone welcome. Enquiries, phone 01747 812365.

• St Margaret’s, Margaret Marsh (Shaftesbury Benefice) SP7 0AZ: Holy Communion 11.15am, August 4. Everyone welcome. Future months, alternating first Sundays Mattins and Holy Communion.

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

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

• St Peter’s, Hinton St Mary: First, second and third Sundays, 9.30am Morning Prayer. Fourth Sunday, 9.30am Holy Communion.

• St Thomas’, Lydlinch: Second and fourth Sunday, 11am Holy Communion. Third Sunday, 6pm Evensong.

• West Camel Independent Methodists: Meeting at All Saints Church, BA22 7QB. August 18 and 25, evening worship 6pm.

Worst of humanity and best of Britain

LIKE many of you, I was deeply distressed and appalled by the horrific murder of three young children in Southport, as well as the injuries received by many others at the party. My thoughts are with the families and friends of those affected, as well as the wider community in which this travesty occurred.

Sadly, self-serving politicians, news outlets and social media “personalities” have sought to use this terrible incident to inflame social tensions. This has resulted in multiple nights of violent disorder on British streets, with businesses destroyed and police officers hospitalised.

There are those who use phrases like “legitimate concerns” to justify the violence. But I saw nothing legitimate in the burning down of a much-loved community library in Liverpool, I saw nothing legitimate in the torching of a vital Citizens

LibDem MP for West Dorset

Edward Morello

Advice Bureau in Sunderland, I saw nothing legitimate in the attempt to set fire to a building containing asylum seekers who came here seeking safety from violence. All I see is extremist thugs claiming to protect our

communities while actively destroying them.

If there is to be a debate over contentious issues like immigration, it cannot be because of the threat of violence. If there are legitimate concerns to be heard, then it should be done through the correct legal and democratic processes. Not least so that debate can be a debate based on facts.

While those who have stoked the flames and those who answered the dog-whistle calls have shown us the very worst of humanity, we have also seen the very best of Britain respond. Across the UK thousands of people have gone out on the streets to protect community centres, mosques, asylum seekers and to protest against the extremist violence. To demonstrate to each other and the world that the violent thugs are not representative of modern Britian. We believe in

right and wrong, in justice, in community, in respect for each other, and in your right to live your life without fear of violence or persecution. Those are British values. Those are the things that make Britain great. And those are the values we must defend in the face of those who seek to sow fear and division.

I would also like to say a huge thank you to the brave police officers who put themselves in harm’s way to keep our communities safe. I have met with Dorset Police and am being kept up to date on the policing situation. I know there are members of Dorset Police who right now are sacrificing time with their loved ones to pull extra shifts to ensure we do not see the kinds of violence here that we have seen elsewhere in the country. We are indebted to them for their hard work and dedication.

Well done to our local Olympians

AS we approach the end of the Olympic Games, I wanted to reflect on the impact that athletes from Glastonbury and Somerton have had on the international stage.

Two athletes from Glastonbury and Somerton were competing at this summer’s Olympics – Matt Richards in swimming and Sophie Hamilton in hockey. Matt was able to take home a gold medal in the men’s 4x200 metres freestyle relay and a silver medal in the men’s 200m freestyle, while Sophie helped Team GB reach the quarter finals in field hockey where they were defeated by the Netherlands. I want to congratulate Matt, Sophie and the whole of Team GB on their successes this summer.

Somerset has a proud history of producing Olympic athletes, in fact, Millfield School in Street has re-ceived 14 selections for this summer’s

Liberal Democrat MP for Glastonbury and Somerton Sarah Dyke

Olympics and Paralympic Games. At the time of writing, if Millfield School was a country, it would be placed 12th in the medal table with four gold medals, two silvers and

one bronze.

It is important that we use the momentum Team GB have built to create a lasting legacy of the Games and spread the benefits sport can have on us all.

Since I was elected to Parliament last year, I have campaigned on helping girls continue to participate in sport throughout their teenage years. Research has shown that one in three girls stop playing sport once they become teenagers. Three-quarters of girls feel more support is needed to keep them in sport and it is incumbent on us to make sure this support is there. We all know that sports can teach us many invaluable lessons in life, such as teamwork and determination, while helping to foster friendships.

Just before the Olympics started, I tabled a parliamentary motion wishing Team GB luck

this summer, while also calling on the Government to ensure there is a lasting legacy from the Games. We must do this by boosting participation in grassroots sports by investing in leisure centres, swimming pools, supporting community sports clubs and protecting National Lottery funding in sport.

I also took the opportunity to ask the Leader of the House of Commons to table a debate on teenage girls participating in sport. I believe we must look at the variety of reasons why teenage girls stop participating in sports and take a holistic approach to tackle this problem. I will make sure I continue to campaign on this important issue in Parliament.

As always, if there is anything I can assist you with, please do not hesitate to get in touch with me at sarah.dyke. mp@parliament.uk

Politics

Lessons to learn from the riots

I HAD a very meta experience the other day. I got out of Shaftesbury Lido to see a gentleman at the side of the pool reading this column. Upon making some self-deprecating remark as I passed about it all being nonsense, he responded “well, it’s not a good start, is it?” Normally, I’d engage, but reflecting on the asymmetry of our attire, I scuttled off to the showers.

Right wing commentators, such as those famous for being married to Michael Gove, have gleefully recounted every piece of bad news this past month. She even tried to pin the demise of Huw Edwards on the new Labour government. No doubt the decline in Team GB’s gold medals this year at the Olympics will be our fault, too.

But what of these riots? No one could have predicted them, or the horrible, tragic murder of children at a dance class in

Greg Williams, on behalf of Dorset Labour

Southport that precipitated them. Yet it is fair that the Government should be judged on how it responds.

As I write on Sunday, August 11, the violence seems to have passed. Our over-stretched police quickly arrested the perpetrators – online and on the streets. Our justice system was then able to promptly charge, convict and sentence them. The publicity of these sentences was

instrumental in deterring further offenders. The assembly of thousands of peaceful, antiracist counter protesters also played a key part.

I condemn the rioters in the strongest terms. The arson of Spellow Library was emblematic of their ignorance. But disdain for their actions should not deter us from clinically assessing the underlying causes of the disorder, and suggest interventions. I would point to the following:

1 – A creaking prisons system. Rioters would have been aware of directives by the previous Tory Government to reduce the number of arrests. They’d also have known of the early release of prisoners. This has led to a perception of the ineffectiveness of law and order in the country, which lowered the deterrent to rioters. Simply, we need more police and more

well managed prison spaces.

2 – Anxiety around immigration. We have too many racists in this country. We have many more people who are not racist, yet are uncomfortable about the levels of immigration. And we also have politicians and influencers who are eager to prey on those anxieties to further their own celebrity, from Farage to Yaxley-Lennon. Our contempt for racists and populists should not cloud the assessment of why people feel anxious about immigration.

3 – Uncontrolled social media. The idea of Musk et al that social media should be a world of ultra, consequence-less free speech facilitates these populists and racists. It enables wilful misinformation sharing and the orchestration of violence online. The Online Safety Bill should be reappraised in light of these riots.

Social media needs reigning in

FROM home to the House of Commons is roughly 126 miles by road. It is not a great distance. By American standards it’s a drive to see friends for lunch. However, when we have all seen and read the coverage of the recent riots, North Dorset, thankfully, seems a long way away from such events.

We will all have been appalled by the beneath human scenes. Acres of comment will be given over to try to establish “why” the riots happened. There will be many issues that play into this but one thing I am clear on is that while there may be “reasons” – both actual and perceived, there is and cannot be any justification for such events and criminality.

Anyone familiar with the film Zulu will recall that towards the end of the film Chard asks Bromhead – the two victorious senior officers – how he feels. The answer never fails

Conservative MP for North Dorset

Simon Hoare

to catch one – he replies that he feels ashamed. I strove for how to describe my response to the riots and, like Bromhead, I too felt shame. Shame that fellow humans could become so lawless and out of control like some latter-day Lord of the Flies. Shame that such hatred and evil could be unleashed. It should shame us all that “do not visit” advice was issued by

other countries.

I spoke above of the “reasons” that some will alight upon. Let me proffer two. The first is the out-of-control power of social – anti-social – media and the opportunity for anyone to write anything and that people will believe it as a Gospel Truth. The regulation of such platforms requires international agreement. Failure to do so leaves me shuddering as to where it all ends.

The second is education or rather the lack of it. Too many studies for comfort point to too many white working-class boys simply falling behind and out of the social mobility route that education provides. This is a new phenomenon. Previous generations, irrespective of class or geography, understood the power of education. Read How Green Was My Valley Remember the number of Reading Rooms, debating and lecture clubs that were founded

by the newish industrial working classes. Their root was the common driver to improve one’s lot by education and “getting on”.

Education does not just turbocharge the journey of self-improvement – it also provides the critical comprehension faculties to weed out the phoney, the conspiracy theorist and the downright dangerous – skills which are always needed but never more so than when faced with the avalanche of falsehood populists issue on social media. Post-riots, temperatures are high and the tendency to break Left v Right obvious. The last things we want. We need cool heads, thoughtful analysis and speedy interventions. Our shame cannot be forgotten nor our collective horror short-term. The opportunity for collaborative cross-party working presents itself. I hope the Front Benches grasp it.

Farming and food for thought

AFTER a couple of weeks of craziness and concern at violence on the country’s streets, that completely distracted from the shocking tragedy at its origin, I reflect on three young girls, brutally killed in Southport, and many others injured. I reflect on the tragedy at the time and in the wilfully misinformed disorder that followed. With thoughts and sympathy to the victims and their families, I am sure we all wish the injured make speedy recoveries and that the mental wounds will also heal.

My thoughts then turn to the police, the courts and other emergency services who endured, contained and struck back at the ensuing lawlessness. We are prompted far too often to think how fragile our society seems at times. Then I was stirred and encouraged as much

READER’S

Gary Jackson, North Dorset

Liberal Democrats

larger numbers came out and stood firm against the thugs.

These events seem alien to us here in peaceful Dorset, but the original crimes might have happened anywhere.

One place for joy and distraction was this year’s Gillingham and Shaftesbury

PICTURE OF THE WEEK

Show on August 14-15. My Liberal Democrat colleagues and I imaginatively selected the subjects of landscape, farming and food for our stand at this year’s show. I hope that by the time you read this you will have enjoyed the show and perhaps visited stand K22 to say hello and share your views.

Food is the point of farming, which uses and shapes the landscape in which all of us live. That seems obvious at an agricultural show but much less clear hurriedly shopping in a supermarket aisle, surrounded by packaging containing food with ingredient lists that start naturally, but often go on to read like a chemistry project.

We literally are what we eat. I am not here to preach –especially as I am a sucker for a delicious, salty, fatty, thing in a bap from any van at the G&S

Show. The rest of the time I am trying to eat better, not to excess, and trying to be more responsible about where it comes from.

I am conscious that better is easy if you have money, but what if you don’t? I visited the Blandford Food Bank team a few weeks ago, appreciating how hard that team works to create a balanced package for people who need a helping hand.

So, we need to make it easier to eat better without breaking the bank, to encourage and support our farmers who produce food and steward our landscape, and as we do our bit to protect the landscape, we hope to have the energy and health to enjoy it. All of which leads back to food. I hope everyone had a treat at the show this week.

Andrew Washington of Wincanton Camera Club took this photo of Abbey Walk, Sherborne

Hidden value in surprising items Space to spare at auction house

SENIOR valuers at Duke’s of Dorchester, Julian Smith and Michael Roberts, are currently travelling the south west, providing valuation services to clients in their own homes.

The pair, who have an impressive collective experience of over 50 years in the field, have honed their skills to recognise the true value of a vast array of items, often uncovering hidden treasures others may have overlooked for years.

Their expertise has led to some remarkable discoveries – for instance, a seemingly ordinary “plant trough” turned out to be a Roman marble sarcophagus, which fetched an incredible £100,000 at auction.

Similarly, a snug coffee table adorned with William de Morgan tiles, surprised many

when it sold for nearly £140,000, underscoring the potential value lurking in the most unassuming objects.

Duke’s has a busy calendar of upcoming sales and now is the perfect time for collectors and casual enthusiasts alike to uncover the worth of their possessions.

The auction house encourages anyone with items they think may have value to reach out for a home visit, which can be arranged by appointment.

For those who prefer an in-office experience, the Duke’s of Dorchester office is open weekdays from 9am-5.30pm for no obligation valuations.

The office can be contacted by email at enquiries@dukesauctions.com or phone 01305 265080.

DESIGN

CLARKE’S Auctions held its first sale in its new showrooms last weekend – and what a difference it made!

More space and light meant the auction house was better able to display the classic pieces of period furniture it had on offer.

Among the lots were an 18th century country house cupboard on chest, a beautifully inlaid Victorian walnut and rosewood crossbanded Credenza and an early 19th century walnut chest-on-stand.

Clarke’s held a grand opening viewing evening the week before which was very well attended with the mayor of Gillingham, Roger Weeks, and Councillor Fiona Cullen attending, and giving their support.

Clarke’s is getting ready for

its September sales and already has an interesting collection of oriental ceramics and works of art, along with period furniture. Already consigned for its Classic Vehicles & Automobilia sale, is a 1930s Francis Barnett Cruiser motorbike, a Lea Francis Special two-seater and a Land Rover Series III 109, along with automobilia, enamel signs and other vehicle and man cave items including a private collection of American slot machines.

For consignment into any of Clarke’s future sales, or for probate valuations, house clearances or any other queries, phone either Richard Clarke or – for Vehicles & Automobilia queries – speak to Matthew Whitney, on 01747 685592 at The Old Glove Factory, Gillingham SP8 4QF.

Joseph Farquharson RA (Scottish 1846-1935) - The Flower Borders of the Artist’s Garden at Finzean, Aberdeenshire - oil on canvas. Sold for £6000

Acreman holding valuation days

ACREMAN St Auctioneers & Valuers Sherborne is holding its Garden & Architectural Auction of about 100 lots on Thursday, August 29, from 10am.

It will include garden furniture, planters and pots, statuary, lighting, a three-tier fountain and so on.

The General Antiques & Collectors Auction the same day will start at 12.30pm and the Silver, Jewellery & Watches Auction is on Friday, August 30, at 10am.

The catalogue and bidding are available through Easyliveauction.com and Thesaleroom.com, and Auctionet.com for timed auctions.

Acreman is holding a programme of valuation days in August at which items can be taken in for its specialists to

evaluate. They run from 10am-3pm and are on: Jewellery & Watches – Saturday 24th; Silver & Objet D’art – Saturday 17th; Toys & Collectables – Saturday 24th; Oriental & Asian – Saturday 17th; Coins & Stamps –Saturday 17th; Militaria –Saturday 24th; Textiles & Fashion – Saturday 24th.

Acreman holds a general valuation day every Wednesday, 10am-3pm, offering free valuations on items being considered for auction.

Acreman at 121 Acreman Street, Sherborne, is open Monday to Saturday 9am-4pm. Anyone with anything they would like to consign can contact Gill Norman on 07908 333577 or 01935 508764, or by email at auction@acreman streetantiques.co.uk.

Coin collection at Charterhouse

CHARTERHOUSE in Sherborne is selling a collection of coins in its Coins, Militaria and Stamp auction on Thursday, August 29.

“The owner, who lived in Bridport, collected coins as a child and returned again to collect coins in his later years,” said Richard Bromell, from the auction house.

The collection is quite broad, but the owner had a particular interest in American silver dollar coins.

The earliest dollar in his collection dates from 1879 and the latest one is from 2008, and the collection includes a great selection of Morgan, Liberty and Peace dollars.

Richard Bromell and the Charterhouse team can be contacted for specialist advice and valuations on militaria,

medals, coins and stamps at The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, on 01935 812277 or via rb@charterhouse-auction. com

Some of the American silver dollar coins being sold by Charterhouse

Antiques & Collectibles

Vintage versus Antique jewellery: What is the difference?

by Amy Brenan, director

Art Deco style citrine pendant

of Heirlooms Jewellers, 21 South Street, Wareham I RECENTLY talked about jewellery eras and thought you may find it interesting to know the differences between vintage and antique jewellery.

You may have inherited some pieces from parents or grandparents and wonder exactly what they would be classed as.

So, here’s a simple guide!

Nex t Sale

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

Saturday 14th September

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

Vintage jewellery TYPICALLY refers to pieces that are at least 40 to 80 years old. This includes styles from the 1940s to the 1980s.

Vintage jewellery encompasses styles such as very late Deco (1930s), Retro (1940s), Mid-Century Modern (1950s) and Modernist (196070s). These pieces reflect the design trends and cultural influences of their time.

Vintage pieces often showcase high quality craftsmanship and materials, including gold, platinum and unusual precious gemstones. However, the quality can vary widely depending on the era and maker.

Antique jewellery IS generally defined as pieces that are over 100 years old. This typically includes jewellery from periods such as the Georgian (1714-1830), Victorian (1837-1901), Edwardian (1901-10) and Art Nouveau (1890-1910) eras, as well as Art Deco (1920s).

Antique jewellery often features intricate designs and

hand-crafted details. Common motifs include nature-inspired elements, filigree work vand the use of enamel. Each era has its own distinct characteristics – for example, Victorian jewellery often includes sentimental motifs like hearts and lockets, while Art Nouveau pieces are known for their flowing lines and organic shapes.

Pieces that are antique are renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship and use of high quality materials featuring rare gemstones and intricate metalwork.

While both vintage and antique jewellery can be valuable, antique jewellery is often more appealing due to its greater age, rarity and historical significance. The unique hand-crafted nature of many antique pieces can make them more sought after. However, high quality vintage pieces, especially those from renowned designers or specific periods, can also be excellent investments and are growing in desirability.

Painting could sell for up to £35,000

A BEAUTIFUL Greek scene –pictured – by the distinguished Victorian artist Edward Lear (1812-88) is to be offered at Lawrences in Crewkerne on Tuesday, September 24.

The oil on canvas depicts Corfu from the village of Ascension and was painted in 1856-57.

Lawrences’ specialist, Richard Kay, said: “The subject is scrupulously realistic and yet imbued with a sense of poetic

wonder – Lear was quickly enraptured by splendid panoramas such as this.

“He worked with an exacting and accomplished technique in thinned oil, with no detail proving to be too trivial to be deserving of his meticulous brushwork.”

“We are really delighted to be offering this for sale.”

The picture is entered in the auctioneers’ major Autumn Fine Art auction, including silver,

ceramics, decorative arts, pictures, jewellery, watches, furniture and clocks across four days of sales. Lear’s fine picture is estimated at £25,000-£35,000.

Home & Garden

Climbers for a shady site

by Sally Gregson

IT can seem exceptionally difficult to find good climbing plants for a shady wall or a fence beneath overhanging branches. But there are some surprisingly good ‘doers’. One doesn’t have to resort to miles of invasive ivy to make the walls green.

On the ivy front, however, there’s Hedera colchica ‘Sulphur Heart’ whose huge, brightly golden-splashed leaves cover plenty of awkward dry, shady walls. They are somewhat hardier than H. canariensis ‘Gloire de Marengo’ with its equally large, cream variegated leaves. Either of these make quite a statement of an awkwardly dry outbuilding or old wall. But perhaps they are a little too bossy to give them their head out in the wider garden. More polite, but almost as

vigorous if it’s happy, is the evergreen hydrangea, H. seemanii. This has pointed, evergreen leaves and bears large, cream, lacecap flowers in July and August. Its elegant, foliage is self-clinging like an ivy – it loves a shady spot and will romp away at ground level if left unchecked. It’s a classier act than its deciduous relative, H. petiolaris which, despite various selections, still holds its dead flowerheads throughout the winter, to look mournful and spent.

A relative of the hydrangea is Schizophragma. The cream flowers of this deciduous, shade-loving climber resemble a hydrangea. But where the hydrangea bears florets around its lacecap, the schizophragma has single petals. Sometimes these petals are elongated and add to the perceived size of the flower-head, as in S.

integrifolium ‘Windmills’. And sometimes, in the case of S. hydrangeoides ‘Rose Sensation’, the flowers are red/ pink with deep red stems. It too is deciduous, but will scramble over a shady wall with great enthusiasm.

Clematis are hedgerow plants that prefer their roots in the shade among other plants and their heads in the sun, as do a selection of roses. Although roses in particular

give of their best in sunshine. One rose was especially beloved by that doyenne of modern gardens, Vita SackvilleWest. She adored R. ‘Madame Alfred Carriere’ for its enthusiastic flowers that open from soft flesh-pink to cream, and have a heady rose scent, above the apple-scented foliage. It can potentially reach five metres in height and flowers all summer. And on a shady wall this is quite a feat.

Hydrangea loves the warmth and sun

by Sally Gregson

THERE are seldom unbreakable rules in gardening. That hydrangeas prefer a little shade is for the most part true, but the exception proves the rule – Hydrangea quercifolia, the oak-leaved hydrangea, needs warmth and sunshine to turn its leaves red.

It comes from the southern states of North America where the climate is somewhat milder than our own. In fact, it can be difficult to grow successfully in the northern counties and in Scotland.

Not only does it dislike cold winds, but it needs a good dose of sunshine to produce its stunning autumn colour. Although, like the rest of the genus, it does need a good, retentive soil, too.

There are quite a few American cultivars. While the endemic plant can grow to over

2 metres tall, there are some good dwarf forms such as H. quercifolia ‘Munchkin’, which reliably does not reach such a height, and produces big flowers in August followed by bright red foliage.

Hydrangea quercifolia ‘Ruby Slippers’ has the usual cream panicles, but as the nights become cooler the flowers

mature to the eponymous ruby-red. Once the flowers have faded to boot-brown, the foliage then reddens, giving weeks of colour. It’s sensible to deadhead the plant to enhance the autumn display.

And H. quercifolia ‘Snowflake’ bears huge, heavily doubled blooms on stalks that bow down with the weight of

the flowers. This variety is probably best grown in a large half-barrel to allow its luxuriant heads to lower. It stops the traffic.

The leaves of H. quercifolia in general tend to persist, ignoring the season. Even in the depths of winter they often hold on to their faded foliage.

Such a winning display needs suitable company. Try growing plants of Hakonechloa macra aureola with its fountains of golden-variegated leaves all summer. Place it next to some of the ‘black grass’–Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’ with its sooty leaves and little purple flowers and berries. Or the variegated, evergreen Acorus graminea ‘Ogon’ would also make a good contrast all winter.

The group could carry the eye through well into the winter, looking colourful.

The evergreen Hydrangea seemanii loves a shady spot

Hydrangea quercifolia ‘Snowflake’ is probably best grown in a large half-barrel to allow its luxuriant heads to lower

EX-DISPLAY SHEDS, Stables/field shelters, summerhouses, offices, workshops, agricultural 01935 891195

SEPTIC TANKS INSTALLED AND REPLACED. All other groundworks undertaken. Ring Patrick. 01963371123 / 07751-278363.

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Lawn mowing, weeding, hedge cutting, strimming etc. Contact Billy 07849 571742

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LANGTON NURSERIES (C W Abbott & Son) Fruit Trees and Ornimental Trees, Perennials & Shrubs, Large selection of; stoneware, terracotta and glazed pots, Wild Bird food 20kg £14.50, Stockists of Kings, Franchi and Fothergill Budget Seeds, Potting Compost. Open daily 10am– 3 pm. Langton Long Blandford Forum Dorset DT11 9HR. Telephone 01258 452513

Get in the Garden Autumn as the traditional planting season

AUTUMN as the traditional planting season was far more significant in previous years than it is now, but is still the best time.

The reason for its lesser significance in recent years is that gardening has succumbed to the modern world where most things we undertake have to give quick results and instant gratification.

Most autumn gardening is about planning ahead so as to make the garden more successful next year.

Planting in the autumn has the benefit of the soil being warm and usually moist.

This means that plants will have the chance to grow roots and start to get established before winter.

This protects them from the vagaries of the winter weather but also means that in spring they are more able to look after themselves in terms of finding their own moisture.

Lots of woody plants will enjoy being planted anytime from now until, usually, Christmas, unless, of course, the soil is either waterlogged or hard frozen, which despite some recent years is not normally the case.

In September, the range and quality of shrubs is at its best and so it’s an ideal time to get the framework of a new border planted or to fill in gaps.

Watering will still be

required in the early stages but then nature will take over as autumn progresses. For best results, add a good quantity of multi compost or tree and shrub planting compost, a handful of bonemeal to support root growth and a couple of spoonfuls of Rootgrow.

Rootgrow contains naturally occurring mycorrhizal fungi, which grow as a slime connecting plant roots to the soil, allowing better moisture collection by the plant.

It’s like an extended root system and protects the plants against some soil-borne diseases.

For similar reasons, it’s also the best time for ornamental and fruit trees, as well as bush fruit such as Black, White and Redcurrants, Gooseberries, Raspberries and even Figs. Roses are also available come late October in a range and quality better than any other time of year.

You will be buying a promise of leaves and flowers and roots for that matter, as what is being sold is a thorny collection of twigs!

Gardeners of old understood this whereas newer gardeners take some persuading that this is the plant that has inspired poets, playwrights and romantics over the centuries!

Other gardening leaps of faith in the autumn come with planting bedding plants such as Wallflowers, Sweet Williams and Cherianthus.

The best way of getting them is either to grow your own from seed or to get them in the old-fashioned way as bare-rooted bundles wrapped in newspaper.

MIKE BURKS , managing director of

The Gardens Group

The latest gardening news, hints and tips, with Mike Burks, MD of The Gardens Group

M & A J LANDSCAPING,

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Treecare

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Garden Property Maintenance

All Hedge/tree work/rubbish clearance

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Get your garden ready for Summer. Trees, Hedges, Patios, Turf & Fencing call Peter 07976-667130

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

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Home & Garden

Insights for tree wardens at Stourhead

TREE wardens from Wiltshire gained an insight into how some of the country’s most important trees are cared for during a visit to Stourhead.

The group visited the National Trust estate for a guided tour of the grounds from the estate management team to learn more about how they look after the trees.

Tree wardens care for trees in their communities, protecting and enhancing the tree population, in partnership with Wiltshire Council and town and parish councils.

Lessons and techniques learned on the visit to Stourhead will be taken back to local communities to improve how trees are cared for.

Wiltshire Council relaunched the Tree Warden scheme in September last year and has already recruited 56 volunteer wardens across the county. They receive training from the Tree

Council’s national tree warden scheme, which also supports with securing funding for the planting of new trees.

The council is looking for more volunteers to take on this important role, said Councillor Dominic Muns, cabinet member

for environment.

CONTACT FOR FREE QUOTATION 01747 822080

CONTACT FOR FREE QUOTATION 01747 822080

CONTACT FOR FREE QUOTATION 01747 822080

in our communities, looking after existing trees and planting new ones, which supports biodiversity, habitats, and helps us to reach our net-zero ambitions.

“The scheme supports our business plan key priorities of ensuring our communities continue to be beautiful and exciting places to live and leading the way in how councils and counties mitigate the climate challenges ahead.

“We’re looking for more tree wardens who can work with our Woodland GAPS Team and local town and parish councils.”

CONTACT FOR FREE QUOTATION 01747 822080

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“The visit to Stourhead was a fantastic opportunity for tree wardens to learn from the Stourhead gardeners who are responsible for a large variety of important trees,” he said.

Anyone passionate about the environment who would like to help can visit www.wiltshire. gov.uk/trees-and-woodland-inwiltshire, or email GAPS@ wiltshire.gov.uk, for more information.

info@kingsmeresurfacing.co.uk www.kingsmeresurfacing.co.uk

info@kingsmeresurfacing.co.uk www.kingsmeresurfacing.co.uk

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“Tree wardens do a vital job

Training will be provided and no prior experience is required.

Kingsmere Surfacing are your

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Kingsmere Surfacing are your Local

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25

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Kingsmere Surfacing are a specialist driveway company working within Blackmore Vale Dorset, Wiltshire & Somerset. We can transform the look of your home, by laying a new surface to your driveway, giving a beautiful, eye catching and individual look.

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Kingsmere Surfacing are a specialist driveway company working within Dorset, Wiltshire & Somerset. We can transform the look of your home, by laying a new surface to your driveway, giving a beautiful, eye catching and individual look.

Kingsmere Surfacing are a specialist driveway company working within Dorset, Wiltshire & Somerset. We can transform the look of your home, by laying a new surface to your driveway, giving a beautiful, eye catching and individual look.

Kingsmere Surfacing are a specialist driveway company working within Dorset, Wiltshire & Somerset. We can transform the look of your home, by laying a new surface to your driveway, giving a beautiful, eye catching and individual look.

Kingsmere Surfacing are a specialist driveway company working within Dorset, Wiltshire & Somerset. We can transform the look of your home, by laying a new surface to your driveway, giving a beautiful, eye catching and individual look.

individual look.

We offer a most attractive and versatile choice of surfaces for both classic and contemporary driveways.

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Tree wardens had a guided tour of the grounds from the estate management team

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Food & Drink

‘Summery’ coq au vin – Italian style

THIS is a lovely, simple “summery” chicken dish with an Italian nod. I use white wine rather than red and lots of summer flavours.

The chicken

6 good size chicken thighs from the butcher or 12 small chicken thighs. Season with salt and pan-fry skin-side down until crispy, then flip over carefully and seal the undersides.

Put the sealed thighs into an oven-to-table dish large enough to hold the chicken and the rest of the ingredients and stock, along with the juices from frying.

The rest of the ingredients

MINI baby new potatoes – each one halved

Pitted black olives

Cherry tomato on the vine or loose

Bunch spring onions – chopped

3 garlic cloves bashed/bruised

1 fresh chilli, chopped

1 good large lemon cut into six

wedges – flick out the pips with the tip of a knife

Fresh basil leaves or pot

Third of a bottle of cheap white wine (optional)

500ml chicken stock – good cube

Getting the dish ready for the oven (180 degrees)

SQUEEZE the juice from the lemon wedges before placing them among the potatoes, bashed garlic, scattered spring onions and basil leaves.

Then add the black olives and tomatoes on top.

Finally, pour the wine and chicken stock into the dish until it is just below the top of the crispy chicken skin.

Season the dish with a good pinch of Maldon sea salt all over and a good grind of black pepper.

Put the all-in-one dish into the oven at 180 for 35 minutes. The flavours will combine into a delicious lemony sauce and wilt

down coming out of the oven with caramelised bubbling edges.

Use fresh basil leaves to garnish and put in the middle of the table to serve with a green

salad dressed with lemon and olive oil, and warm ciabatta. n Annie des Forges, Director/ Chef, The Table Bruton. Annie Austin, Director/Host and Concierge Somerset Roadtrip.

Time to experience ... THE CLOCKSPIRE

5th Anniversary Celebration Wine Dinner

Thursday 10th October

The Clockspire celebrates five years of beautiful hospitality this Autumn, and to celebrate, we’re pulling out all the stoppers!

We’ve pulled together a positively A-list selection of wines from the Champagne and Burgundy regions, which we’ll pair with a menu par excellence for an evening to remember.

Tickets to this bacchanalian celebration are £140pp - and we can’t wait to raise a glass with you!

Call 01963 251458 to book or visit our website.

Sunset vibes this September

Relaxed Summer vibes continue in the Clockspire’s cocktail bar as we pull together a grown up playlist of chilled house music on Friday 13th September

No need to book - just visit, sip and savour!

Discover our Set Menu

Served Wednesday to Friday lunch and Dinner, and Saturday lunch. 2 courses £24 / 3 courses £29

This coq au vin is a joy served with a green salad and warm ciabatta

Cook safe campaign

THE Fire Service is urging older people in the New Blackmore Vale area to cook safely at home in a new campaign.

Statistics show that a third of kitchen fires Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS) attended last year were in the homes of people aged over 65 and living alone.

The Cook with Care campaign aims to prevent cooking-related incidents and make residents safer at home.

It has four key themes to help reduce kitchen fires:

n Prepare – Before you start cooking, create a clear space to prepare your meals safely. Keep tea towels and cloths away from the cooker and hob, and take care if you are wearing loose clothing.

n Prevent – Never put anything other than pots and

pans on your cooker hob –even after you have finished cooking, the hob will remain hot for some time. Never put anything metal into the microwave. Saucepan handles left sticking out create a danger – they could be caught, leading to the pans being knocked off the hob.

n Focus – Do not leave cooking unattended. Avoid cooking if you are tired, have been drinking alcohol or are taking medication that leaves you drowsy.

n Stay Safe – Keep the oven, hob and grill clean, as a build-up of fat or grease can catch fire when hot. Switch off the oven and/or hob when you have finished cooking and take pans off the heat. More information about safety in the home is available on the DWFRS website – visit www.dwfire.org.uk/safety-athome. Anyone with an older friend or relative who lives alone is asked to share this advice with them.

Enford Farm Shop

Half a pig approx £130.

Home reared and locally produced meats, game, deli, f ruit, veg, f ree range eggs and lots more.

Follow us on Facebook for all our latest meat pack deals and what’s in f resh that week.

Chicken feeds etc available.

Open Wednesday to Saturday 10am-5.30pm.

01258 450050

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

Health & Wellbeing

Meditations in nature: The nightjars of Slepe Heath

by Susanna Curtin

IT is sundown on Slepe Heath. The purple and pink mounds of heather are losing their vibrancy as the light slowly fades towards nightfall. I have always loved this time of day and the evocative, pensive mood it engenders. It’s a liminal space between day and night and a time when the wildlife changes shift – familiar creatures take to their roosts and the mysterious, crepuscular creatures of the night begin to appear.

Out on the heath, the hot oppressive day has enticed clouds of flying ants to emerge from their nests and my ears fret with the sound of humming mosquitoes. Despite my involuntary swatting, I don’t mind too much, as this bodes well for the birds I have come to watch. For I am here tonight to encounter one of our most strange, elusive summer migrants, and a bird that throughout history has haunted our imagination and folklore, hovering as it does between

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superstition and realism. Nightjars have had many different country names borne out of irrational beliefs and their strange nocturnal behaviour. Fern-owl, Screechhawk, Dew-fall owl, Eve-jar, Night-churr and Goatsucker are the most cited. The latter because of the widespread notion that the birds enter goat stalls and steal the nannies’ milk – a presumption recorded by Aristotle and their Latin name, but borne only from the fact

that nightjars often feed in the vicinity of farm animals where there is a greater abundance of insects.

European nightjars –Caprimulgus europaeus – are indeed strange-looking creatures. They have greybrown mottled plumage that resembles the bark of a tree and are a similar shape to a kestrel with a distinct pointed tail, a flat head, large dark eyes and a wide frog-like bill. The male of the species has bright white patches on the tips of its wings and tail, which are flashed when displaying to other males and females.

Our nightjars originate from the grass scrublands of Central Africa and are one of the last migrants to arrive here in April and May. They favour heathlands, moorlands and woodland clearings, and are

mostly found in the south of England, but also in parts of Wales, the north of England and south west Scotland. They are ground-nesting birds and are therefore vulnerable to disturbance from people and dogs. Once breeding is over, juveniles and adults leave for their homes in Africa and have gone by late August or early September. So, this is a timely visit before they go.

Nearly half an hour after the sun has dropped beneath the horizon and the salmon-pink clouds have turned to grey, the nightjars begin to emit an eerie mechanical, churring noise that modulates in frequency and direction as they move their heads from side to side. This throws their unearthly vocalisations in different directions and makes them sound more like an insect than a bird. At first, their churring is lost against the noises of distant machinery in Poole Harbour, but as my ears tune in, and human activity quietens, it becomes easier to hear them. It is a call without an obvious beginning or end and where the lack of fixity makes it seem that it is emerging from the land itself. But it is a strangely exciting sound that once heard is never forgotten. To spot a singing nightjar is pretty much impossible. However, in this half-light, I can just make out the distinctive spoon shape of a male bird calling from the branch of an old Scots pine. I wonder how long he has been there preparing his eerie call. Even

Nightjars favour heathlands, moorlands and woodland clearings

so, I would never have seen him without hearing him first as he is perfectly camouflaged. Eventually, as the darkness creeps in, I see my first bird take to the air in a fast, elegant, loopy flight in which his hawk/ cuckoo-like silhouette speeds effortlessly between the pines. His beak is wide open, like a basking shark, to scoop up the moths and insects on which he feeds. Then, as fast as lightning, he disappears into the darkness of the vegetation.

By the time I make for home, I have seen nine or 10 of them. I am so glad to have reacquainted myself with these breathtakingly beautiful and mysterious birds, for I had forgotten just how magical they are, and although their numbers are declining, the conservation efforts around Arne have made it one of the best places to see them. I feel incredibly lucky. n Dr Susie Curtin (email curtin.susanna@gmail.com).

Busy bees and more high on the hill

by Fiona Chapman

AS I write, it is beautifully hot – I love the heat – the sun is shining, and the insects are buzzing. My disappointing wildflower patch was not so bad in the end, and as I walk past, I can hear all the insects it attracts.

Likewise, on top of Shillingstone Hill, and between Hod and Hambledon Hill, some of the fields are alive with insects, grasshoppers, crickets, butterflies and bees. It is an absolute joy to be among them all as they go about their business.

It makes me think of what it must have been like before

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farming became so commercial. We would have lived so much more in tune with nature, life would have been simpler and we may have been much happier.

Walking through these fields is calming, exciting and it makes me live in the moment.

There are so many herbs out, which is thrilling, although I still find it very hard to harvest them as I feel they have waited all year to flower and who am I to come and pick them.

The Hypericum perforatum, or St John’s Wort, is flowering. As said before, you know it is the right plant if you pick a flower and rub it between your finger and thumb and it leaves a red sap. I picked some this morning and put it in vodka and within two hours it turned the vodka bright red. A few drops will be my sunshine pick up in the winter!

You can also put it in olive oil and leave it on a sunny

& Wellbeing

windowsill. It will turn the oil red, and you can use it topically for nerve pain. I also found some common fleabane Pulicaria dysenterica, which interested me, as I thought from the common name it must have been used for fleas and the Latin name dysentery. I looked it up and, yes, it was burned on the fire or hung up in houses to keep out flies and fleas. I am going to give it a go and see if it will keep the midges away.

It was also used in the treatment of dysentery. Apparently, the Russian army was cured of dysentery in one of its expeditions against Persia by taking this plant, presumably in a decoction. A decoction has also been used for curing ulcers and topically for the “itch”! What itch is not revealed – it can be left to your imagination. n Fiona Chapman is a naturopathic herbalist; email Pellyfiona@gmail.com.

Motoring

ON ALL VEHICLES UP TO 3.5 TONNES INCLUDING HORSEBOXES AND MOTORHOMES

SUNRISE SERVICE & MOT CENTRE

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

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

MOTS – class 4,5 and 7

Diagnostics

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

Air conditioning Valets

Bodyshop also available.

Bodyshop open for all repairs and restorations,

MOTs – class 4, 5 and 7

MOTS – class 4,5 and 7

Courtesy Cars

Diagnostics Air Conditioning

Diagnostics

Collections within a 5 mile radius

Courtesy Cars

Air conditioning 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 ed Forces a es

15B Sunrise Business Park, Higher Shaftesbury Road

Blandford DT11 8ST Tel: 01258 459798

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

Email info@sunriseservicecentre.com www.sunriseserviceandmotcentre.com

Email sunriseservicecentre@hotmail.com www.sunriseserviceandmotcentre.com

2018 (18) Dacia Sandero Stepway 0.9TCe Laureate 5dr. 90bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, sat nav, reverse camera, parking sensors, cruise control, hill start assist, only 13,500 miles ............................................£8950

2016 (66) Ford Fiesta 1.0T Titanium X 5dr. 125bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, partial leather, heated seats, parking sensors, reverse camera, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, hill start assist, heated front screen, Free yearly road tax & upto 65mpg economy, only 34,200 miles .............................£8950

2010 (10) Ford Focus 1.6 Zetec Estate 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, great value load lugger, MOT Jan 25, cambelt has been replaced, private sale on behalf of a customer, 105,500 miles ...............£2250

2020 (69) Ford Tourneo Custom 2.0TDCi Titanium 320 L1 H1 Automatic 9 Seat Minibus 5dr. 130bhp, diesel, 6 speed automatic gearbox, 8 seat plus driver, 3 front, 6 rear, reversable rear seats, rear ac, auto lights & wipers, cruise, heated front seats, park sensors, cambelt kit has been replaced, 97,000 miles ..........................................................£23000 + VAT = £27600

2020 (69) Ford Transit 2.0TDCi Trend 350 MWB MR L2 H2 11 Seat Minibus 5dr. 130bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, 10 seat plus driver, 2 front seats, 9 rear seats, auto lights & wipers, cruise, park sensors, heated front seats, rear heating, hill start assist, cambelt kit has been replaced, 90,200 miles ..........................................................£22500 + VAT = £27000

2018 (18) Hyundai Kona 1.0T-GDi Premium SUV 5dr. 120bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, sat nav, parking sensors & reverse camera, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, hill start assist, 21,300 miles ........................£12250

2004 (53) Mercedes-Benz SLK200 Kompressor 2.0 Convertible 2dr. 163bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, cheap summer fun, leather, clearance car to be sold as seen, MOT June 25, only 53,500 miles........ £3500

2021 (71) Mercedes-Benz Vito 119 2.0CDi Tourer Select Automatic LWB 9 Seat Minibus 5dr. 187bhp, diesel, 9 speed automatic gearbox, 8 seat plus driver, 3 front seats, 6 rear seats, twin side doors, auto lights & wipers, slide tip & tumble rear seating, 45,500 miles ………….£32000 + VAT = £38400

2001 (Y) MG MGF 1.8 Convertible 2dr. 118bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, cheap summer fun, to be sold as seen with MOT until August 2025, British Racing Green with 2 tone leather interior, only 49,700 miles …£2500

2016 (66) Vauxhall Corsa 1.4 SE 5dr. 90bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, parking sensors, advanced auto park assist, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, partial leather, heated seats, heated steering wheel, only £35 a year road tax, upto 55mpg economy, only 21,200 miles...........£7950

2017 (17) Vauxhall Astra 1.4 SRi 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, pre-collision assist, sign recognition, 63,600 miles ...................................................£7650

2016 (66) Volvo V40 2.0TD D2 R-Design 5dr. 120bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, sat nav, partial leather, heated seats, parking sensors, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, hill start assist, FREE road

LEYLAND DAFF, 7.5tonne with ally skids. winch, air suspension, 160bhp, runs and drives perfect. £3695. Tel: 07887-948917

/ 07704

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

BRIDGE MOTORS

Wincanton Ltd. Silver Street | Wincanton | BA9 9AW | 01963 33313 www.bridgemotorswincanton.co.uk

(21) Citroen C3 1.2

£9995

2018 (18) Ford Focus Titanium Estate 1.5 TDCi, Champagne Silver, 2 Owners, Sat Nav 21,000 miles. Ford Service History......................... £12595

2018 (68) Vauxhall Astra 1.6 CDTi Sri VX Line Nav, White, 2 owners, 62,000 miles £7995

2017 (67) DS 3 1.2 Puretech Givenchy Le MakeUp Ltd Edition, 2 owners 45,000 Miles ......................................................................................... £7295

2017 (66) Audi A1 TFSi CoD Black Edition, White, ½ Leather and Alcantara, 2 owners, 47,000 Miles ....................................................... £11995

2014 (64) Mini Cooper 1.5D Chilli Pack, High Mileage, Service History, Met Red/White £4995

2014 (64) Ford Kuga 2.0 TDCi Titanium, Deep Impact Blue, 57,000 Miles ½ Leather, Tow Pack, Cruise Control .................................................... £7995

2014 (64) Ford Fiesta 1.25 Zetec 5DR, Red Alloys, Air Con...............£4995

2013 (13) Mini Hatch Cooper 1.6 Chilli Pack, 72,000 Miles, Half Leather, Red, Service History .............................................................................. £4995

TRANSIT CONNECT VAN 1800 TURBO DIESEL. 2007 Reg. Genuine 119,000 miles, excellent condition. MOT January. £2,200.00. Tel: 07970-307350 ARRIVING SOON ********************

2017 (17) Range Rover Evoque HSE, Silver, Pan Roof, Full Leather Heated Seats, 61,000 Miles .........................................................................£ 2015 (15)

Announcements

60th WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

John & Jeanette Hobbs

Happy 60th Wedding Anniversary, to a wonderful Mum and Dad. 15th August 2024. Love, Mike, Julie, Rik, Colin and Susie. Xx

BIRTHDAYS

Barry is 70 as of the 13th of August

Wishing you many more years to come

All our love Yvonne, Christopher, Carina and William and Foz

Colin Hayward -

A very happy 80th birthday on 23rd August. All my love, Maureen xxxx

DEATHS

Read Ann

Passed away peacefully on 24th July 2024, Aged 78. Much loved Mother & Friend. Funeral Service to take place on Friday 30th August, 2024 at St Michael’s Church in Mere at 2pm. Donations if desired to either Wiltshire Air Ambulance or RSPCA. Cheques can be made payable to the charity of choice and sent to C/O L.C.Hill and Son Funeral Directors, Water Street, Mere, BA12 6DZ

Mullan (Corton Denham)

Diane Elizabeth Mullan (retired Cabin Staff Superintendent, British Caledonian Airways), aged 76. Dearly loved, wife of the late Chris, mother of Christopher (Kit), mother in law of Rachel, daughter of the late Robert and Winifred, loving sister, sister in law, aunt, cousin and good friend to many. The Funeral was held on the 5th August. Donations are being made to Motor Neurone Disease Association and Salvation Army in memory of Diane

GORDON HUMPHRIES

Peacefully passed away on the 2nd August 2024 aged 94 years young. Gordon was much loved & will be sadly missed. He was a devoted Husband, Father, Grandad, Great Grandad, Brother and Uncle.

Gordon’s Funeral is taking place at Yeovil Crematorium on the 22nd August at 11:20am. The family would like to request bright colours to be worn. The wake is taking place at The Arrow pub, The Forum, Yeovil, Somerset BA21 3TL, for anyone that wishes to attend; There also will be drinks at The Dolphin Inn, Peacemarsh, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 4HB from 5:30pm. For any Questions, please contact Bracher Brothers Funeral Directors on 01747 822494.

DEATHS

Peter

James

Yates

(Formally of Blandford Forum)

Passed away peacefully on August 1st 2024 at his home in Spalding Lincolnshire aged 78 with his family around him. A loving father to Ian, Jane, Stephen, Lisa and David. And a loving grandfather. Private cremation. He will be sadly missed by those he loved and knew him.

Woodall, Pamela Mavis

Died peacefully at West Abbey Care Home, Yeovil on the 5th August Aged 88 Years.

A much loved and sadly missed Mother, Grandmother, Great Grandmother and Sister.

Funeral service to be held on Thursday 22nd August at 1.20pm at Yeovil crematorium.

Family Flowers only please but donations kindly accepted in Pamela’s memory for The Royal British Legion C/O David Rivett Funeral Director 30 Lyde Road Yeovil Somerset BA21 5AT 01935 433737

Chandler, Brian Michael

Passed away peacefully, at home, on 24th July 2024, aged 73 years. Beloved husband of Catherine, father to Rosie, Matthew, Sam and Edward.

A funeral Service will take place at St. Nicholas Church, Moreton on Tuesday 20th August 2024, at 12 noon. The family wish to thank all those who sent their kind wishes on his passing. Family flowers only please.Donations for PSP Association and Weldmar Hospicecaremay be sent c/o Woods & Tapper Funeral Service 6 Albert Road, Dorchester. DT1 1SF or via our website:www.woodsfuneralservices.co.uk Telephone 01305 250425

GILLIAN ANN HAYWARD

on 1st August 2024, peacefully in Salisbury District Hospital, surrounded by her family, aged 85 years. Of Donhead St Andrew. Beloved Wife to Ivan. Mother, Grandmother, Great Grandmother and friend to many.

A service to celebrate the life of Gillian takes place at Donhead St Andrew Church on Friday 30th August at 1.30pm.

Donations, if desired, for The Stars Appeal at SDH, 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

DEATHS

CLOTHIER

Graham Charles

Aged 79 years, of Castle Cary, On 1st August 2024. Peacefully at his home. A much loved Husband, Father, Grandfather, Uncle and Friend. Funeral Service at All Saint’s Church, Castle Cary, Thursday 22nd August at 2pm. Followed by private cremation. Family flowers only please. Donations in memory of Graham are being invited for Parkinson’s UK or Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, C/O Harold.F.Miles, Funeral Director, South Cadbury, BA22 7ES. Tel: 01963-440367

BROWN Gary William

Passed away unexpectedly on 2nd August 2024, aged 38.

Much loved husband to his wife Tara and Daddy to his children Levi, Logan, Lacie, Lylah and Lottie-Mae. A wonderful Son, Brother, Uncle and friend. Funeral service at Poole crematorium on Monday 2nd September at 11am Please wear casual to the service. Family flowers only. Donations if desired to Dorset Air Ambulance, C/o Grassby Close Funeral Service, Station Road, Sturminster Newton, DT10 1BB. Tel 01258 471024

MARSHALL Janet (née Amey)

Passed away peacefully on 31st July 2024 at Poole Hospital. Aged 77 years.

Much loved mother to Adrian and grandmother to Matthew and Lauren. She will be greatly missed by family and friends. Funeral Service to be held at Poole Crematorium on Friday 30th August 2024 at 11.00am. Family flowers only please, but donations, if desired to Sue Ryder may be made online by visiting www.close-funeral.co.uk (Via the Much Loved Link) or cheques payable to the charity may be sent c/o Colin J Close Funeral Service, Peel Close, Salisbury Road, Blandford DT11 7JU. Tel: 01258 453133

ABBOTT Aslaug Elisabeth

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Aslaug Abbott who passed away peacefully in Salisbury District Hospital on 1st August 2024, aged 85 years. She was the beloved wife of 62 years of Michael, and much loved mother, grandmother and sister. She will be greatly missed by all her family and friends. Her funeral will be held at West Wiltshire Crematorium, Semington, at 11am on Friday 6th September 2024. The family wish the funeral service to be a celebration of Aslaug’s life. We encourage ladies to wear a splash of colour, and gentlemen to wear a coloured tie. Aslaug’s favourite colour was blue.

Family flowers only, but donations if desired, to Wiltshire Air Ambulance, c/o I N Newman Ltd, 55 Winchester Street, Salisbury, SP1 1HL. Tel: 01722 413136

Roy Reginald Frith

passed away peacefully 3rd August aged 92. Much loved Father, Grandfather and Great Grandfather. A Celebration of his life will occur at Fifehead Neville Church on August 27th, 11am.

FUDGE

Brian Kenneth

Passed away peacefully after a long illness, bravely borne. A dearly loved husband, dad, grandad, great grandad, brother, cousin and friend to many. Funeral service will take place at St Nicholas Church Henstridge on Thursday 22nd August at 1:00pm.

Jean Betty Hart

Peacefully on 31st July 2024. Jean aged 91 years of Templecombe. Dearly loved Mum, Nana and Great Nana. Funeral service at Yeovil Crematorium on Friday, 23rd August at 1.20pm. Family flowers only please, donations if desired for The Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Trust. C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, The Old Reading Room, Shaftesbury Road, Henstridge, BA8 0PP. Tel 01963 362570.

Kathleen ‘Kit’ Callaway 08-10-1936 to 14-07-2024

Kit Callaway of Blandford passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family and friends, after a short illness.

A devoted wife, cherished mother, beloved grandmother, and great-grandmother, Kit was a dear friend to many. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Anyone wishing to learn about the service, make a donation, or share memories of Kit is welcome to do so through her much-loved memorial website at www.muchloved.com

HANKEY

Gayna Michelle

Passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday 6th August 2024, aged 65 years. Much loved wife to Reg, mother to Carl and Steph and grandmother to Reggie. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

A Memorial Service will take place at St. Mary Magdalene Church, Castleton, Sherborne on Friday 30th August 2024 at 11.00am.

Donations if desired, in memory of Gayna are for Margaret Green Animal Rescue and Weldmar Hospicecare. (Please make cheques payable to the charities) All donations and enquiries to A. J. Wakely & Sons, Funeral Directors, 16 Newland, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3JQ. Tel: 01935 816817.

Announcements

DEATHS

JOHN ESSEX

Peacefully passed away on the 7th August 2024. John was much loved, and will be sadly missed by all that knew him.

John’s Funeral is taking place on the 27th August 2024 at Yeovil Crematorium at 14:40. Donations if desired, towards the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance.

Any queries or questions, please contact Bracher Brothers Funeral Directors on 01747 822494.

DOROTHY GRACE MONICA MOORES “MON”

on 5th August 2024, peacefully at home aged 91 years, of Donhead St Mary. Formerly of The Half Moon Pub, Shaftesbury.

Much loved wife to Bill, a loving mum to Sue, Nick and Andrew and nanny to many. Funeral service takes place at St John’s Church, Charlton on Tuesday, 10th September at 12.30pm followed by interment. No flowers 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.

David GL JOHN (Formerly of Zeals, Wiltshire)

Piano Teacher and Piano Technician

Founder and Conductor of Dorset Philharmonic Orchestra

Peacefully, on Saturday 3 August, following a long and bravely borne illness, David, of Ammanford, Carmarthenshire. Devoted and dearly loved husband of Anne, loving father of Elliott, Laura, Harriet, Juliet, Lowri and the late Dominic.

Funeral on Wednesday 28 August, public service at St Tybie Church, Llandybie, Carmarthenshire, SA18 2TL at 2 pm, followed by interment in the churchyard. Family flowers only, donations in lieu if desired to the Royal Society of Musicians c/o Nia Wyn Bishop, Waunddewi, 43 Cross Hands Road, Gorslas, Llanelli, Carmarthenshire SA14 6RR

Francis Robert Green

Peacefully on 6th August 2024. Bob aged 92 of Berry Farm, King Stag. Private burial service. Memorial service at St Thomas a Becket, Lydlinch on Tuesday 3rd September 11am. Family flowers only please. Enquiries to Peter Jackson Funeral Services, The Old Reading Room, Shaftesbury Road, Henstridge, Somerset, BA8 0PP.

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

A J Wakely& Sons

J Wakely&

& Sons

A J Wakely& Sons

Sons

A J Wakely& Sons

J Wakely& Sons Independent Family Funeral Directors

Independent Family Funeral Directors

J Wakely& Sons Independent Family Funeral Directors

Independent Family Funeral Directors

Independent Family Funeral Directors

A

A

J Wakely

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 –

Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse

Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse

Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse

Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817

– 24 Hour Service –

available including our Land Rover Hearse

Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817

Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310

J Wakely& Sons Independent Family Funeral Directors

Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse

Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817

Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310

Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310 – 24 Hour Service –

Tel: 01935 816817 Tel: 01963 31310 Hour Service –

Pre-payment plans available

Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817

Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817

Pre-payment plans available

Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310 – 24 Hour Service –

Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310

Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817

Please contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.

Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310 – 24 Hour Service –

Pre-payment plans available

Please contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.

Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse

Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse

Pre-payment plans available

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

Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817

Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310 – 24 Hour Service –

Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817 Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310 – 24 Hour Service –

contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.

Please contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.

contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.

member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.

Sons Independent Family Funeral Directors Please

Please

Inflammation of the digestive system can have multiple causes and can vary in severity

How to help your dog through gastroenteritis

GASTROENTERITIS simply means inflammation of the digestive system and it can have multiple causes. It can

7 GUINEA FOWl For Sale Great Layers 07979-068286

FLAT COATED RETRIEVER

PUPS, black, KC Reg, parents’ hip and eye tested. Wonderful temperament, microchipped and wormed. Mob 07736-886736 or 01963-458199

C.B. Brett & Son

Pet & Wildlife

Dog - Wet, Dry & Frozen Food

Cat - Wet & Dry Food Bird/Hedgehog/WildlifeFood, Feeders & Accessories

Old Market Car Park, Hound St, Sherborne, DT9 3AB 01935 812107

also vary in severity and most cases will resolve with supportive management without needing medication.

A dog which has vomited a few times but then stops can usually be monitored. Limiting water to little and often will reduce the likelihood of gulping down large volumes and perpetuating the vomiting. If vomiting does not stop or your dog is really lethargic, then you should contact your vet.

TRICOLOUR PEMBROKE CORGI PUPPIES. Two boys available. Fully health tested parents, KC registered. Microchipped and vaccinated. 07484-679645

SPRINGER SPANIEL PUPS from working lines 2 x B&W Boys Kennel Club Registered. Wormed ,Microchipped & 5 weeks free insurance, £750. 07900-191528

blood in the diarrhoea – streaks of blood is common and considered “normal” – or if they are really lethargic.

Once they are happy to eat and no longer vomiting, start feeding small meals of bland food – such as chicken or white fish with or without rice or potato – frequently – six or seven times throughout the day. In the short term you are feeding the gut to heal itself – and not your dog’s appetite – but without overloading it. Research has shown that recovery is faster doing this rather than starving for 24-48 hours. Avoid their normal food – including treats – until the symptoms have resolved.

Probiotics, including kaolin, can also be added in which can help dry up the diarrhoea and re-establish normal gut bugs.

In otherwise healthy dogs, gastroenteritis is a temporary frustration, and it will resolve with supportive care. If the diarrhoea is not resolving or it recurs, then you should contact your vet. If your dog does not return to eating after 24 hours, then again you should seek veterinary advice.

by Lynn Broom Longmead Veterinary Practice

Gastroenteritis viruses often start with vomiting and then progress to diarrhoea. The urge to go may be sudden and dogs may have “accidents” indoors overnight if they cannot get outside in time. Again, dogs with diarrhoea can usually be monitored. A vet should be contacted if they are not drinking enough to avoid dehydration, if there is a lot of

WORKING COCKER SPANIEL PUPS. Parents working dogs and work local shoot. Tails docked with vet certificates. Well socialised with animals and children. Very keen and eager to learn. £950. 01202-883653 or 07814-829564.

In summary, self-limiting vomiting and/or diarrhoea without excessive blood in an otherwise normal dog can be managed with diet. Ongoing vomiting, bloody diarrhoea or significant lethargy requires a vet’s advice. Not eating for more than 24 hours or lack of improvement of other symptoms also require further intervention.

If you are unsure as to how to manage your dog’s dietary upset, then your vet will be happy to provide advice.

CUDDLES FOR CATS reliable cat sitting in your home. Jacqui 07791-198679

CAVAPOO X JACK RUSSELL PUPS, Vaccinated & microchipped. Ready now. £850, 07790 704653

TWO PURE JACK RUSSELL ROUGH COATED puppies for sale. Girl and boy, 8 wks, £550 Fiona 07879-415285

MID DORSET CATS PROTECTION Cats looking for new homes

Tofu, 12 weeks, gorgeous and playful kitten

Nessy, 10 years, sweet loving girl. Has a medical issue not needing medication

Cassie, 16 months, timid cat looking for a home of her own without other pets

Stan, nine years, the softest most laid-back boy you’ll ever find! Looking for a home as the only pet

Molly, eight years, sweet but shy girl looking for a home with her brother Noah

Rebel, two years old, looking for a home with his best friend, Boomer

Smudge, four years old grey and white big friendly boy, not lived indoors before no other pets

Noah, eight years, lovely boy looking for a home with his sister Molly

Boomer, 10 years, affectionate boy looking for a home with his best friend, Rebel

n Outside cats: We have a number of outside cats in different locations needing to be relocated. We are looking for people with stables, farms, smallholdings or gardens where a mouser is needed to help with rodent control. For details, please call our helpline on 01258 858644 or visit our website www.cats.org.uk/blandford

LOST CATS

If you have lost a cat contact us via our website, phone or Facebook. Please provide a contact phone number so we can get in touch with you quickly if needed.

n Grey Tabby, green eyes, missing from Spetisbury since July 24.

n FOUND CATS

If you regularly see a cat in your garden or down your street that you don’t think has an owner, please give us a call. It may be a lost cat that could be reunited

with its owner.

n Calico tortie, Stalbridge, visiting garden regularly since July.

n Bengal, Tarrant Keyston, been spotted in the area since July.

n Black, Alfred St Blandford, vary wary cat spotted.

n Tabby/calico/white, Wincanton, visiting garden since mid-July.

n Cream and Tabby, Shaftesbury, scared cat been seen in area since beginning August.

Three calming tips for dogs

by Raychel Curson

WE can be quick to react and make decisions that might not have been not too good when we are uptight or nervous – our dogs are the same!

Whether that be because they are excited or stressed, they may display less than desirable behaviour when they are wound up. Dogs that are calmer are able to evaluate their environment and calm down a lot quicker if they have an exciting or stressful experience, as they have regularly practised calm behaviour. So, this all sounds great, but how can we put this into practice?

Sleep

DOGS need around 16-18 hours of sleep a day, an overtired dog is like a toddler –more likely to act out. Providing a safe place for relaxing and ensuring you allow time for quiet time during the day can help promote better sleep.

Calming enrichment

BY giving your dog positive calming activities such as snuffle mats, Kongs, scatter

feeding, Licki mats etc at low arousal, you can encourage your dog to practice calm and they are being rewarded for it at the same time! This can also help manage their arousal levels.

Capture calm

SCIENCE says that if we reward a behaviour, we make it more likely to occur again. So, by rewarding calm and desirable behaviours we encourage them to repeat that behaviour. I’m sure your dog is not a whirlwind 24/7 – although initially my spaniel was close to it! – so use those opportunities that your dog is relaxing to reward them with a low to medium value reward – high-value food or interactive toys may be too exciting for this activity. If your dog does get up, just wait until they relaxed again to reward. They will soon get the idea –using a good marker/quiet clicker may help to clarify what you are rewarding!

Although calmness is good, that doesn’t mean that high arousal activities are bad, it just means that it is good to mix activities up! If you need any help or guidance on these topic, please do feel free to get in touch with me.

n Raychel Curson BSc (Hons) MA CCAB APBC-CAB FABC ABTC-CAB. Owner of Pet Peeves Animal Behaviour & Teaching. Email raychel@ petpeevessomerset.co.uk.

For more details, please call our helpline 01258 858644 or visit our website: cats.org.uk/blandford (Formerly Blandford & Sturminster) Sponsored by Longmead Veterinary

Rockies step up to earn battling home draw

Shaftesbury 1 (Nixon 20)

Malvern Town 1 (Tumelty 65) by

Avril Lancaster

THE Rockies’ first ever game at Step 4 was a baptism of fire.

Malvern Town dominated as Shaftesbury held back the early onslaught.

Charlie Johnson for the visitors fizzed an effort over the top in the first minute.

Malvern then put in a free-kick which anyone of Adam Saunston, Johnson or Jack Watts could have connected with, but Shane Murphy brilliantly tipped the ball away and Harry Bunce headed it off the line.

The visitors piled in corner after corner with Levi Francis running at Shaftesbury’s defence at every opportunity.

Sam Davidson, Cameron Beard, Liam Farrugia, Eddie

GOLF

FOOTBALL

Perrett and Brad Morris threw themselves in front of everything for the Rockies.

Bunce and Asa Phillips started to get at the visitors on the break after the early tidal wave was quelled.

Malvern’s Harry Clark, who was responsible for downing Hereford Pegasus in the previous weekend’s FA Cup tie, probably could not believe what happened next.

He hit a cross shot that bounced off the bar before it dropped back onto the bar and almost sheepishly rolled out for a goal kick.

Remus Nixon turned the visitor’s defence and fired a low shot past Lewis Adams to put Shaftesbury ahead after 20 minutes.

Ben Satterley brought a point blank save from Adams after Beard headed back a Toby Bailey free-kick, which had been fizzed into the box, as the Rockies grew into the game.

Louis Payne responded for Malvern, breaking from the back to find Watts, who shot over.

The second half was quieter.

Sam Davidson had a great chance for the Rockies, heading Satterley’s free-kick just over the bar.

Then substitute Harry McGrath created a chance for Philips which he blasted at Adams, who narrowed the angle down well.

ATHELTICS

Malvern levelled in the 65th minute. With Morris down injured, the referee played the advantage and with Shaftesbury’s defence backtracking, Joseph Tumelty turned in the leveller.

Rockies management duo Pat McManus and Jim Milligan can look at this as a well-earned point, but Malvern may feel they should have been 3-0 ahead in the first 15 minutes.

Shaftesbury: Murphy, Farrugia, Perrett, Bailey, Beard, Davidson, Satterley, Morris, Philips (Woods), Bunce (McGrath), Nixon.

Malvern Town: Adams, Payne, Platt, Saunston, Johnson, McDonald, Francis (Bevan), Bullock, Watts, Tumelty, Clark.

Fun greensomes and hole in one Triple jumper Will wins silver medal

TWENTY ladies took part in the Paul Nicholls Trophy at Wheathill Golf Club.

The competition format was greensomes, always an enjoyable and fun format, and the participants enjoyed playing in the sunshine. The victorious pair were Linda Johnson and Nicky Wisniewski, who came in with 67 points.

Kate Cleverley and Lynn O’Neill were second with 68 points on countback and third

were Ann Gates and Sam Thorpe, also on 68.

Extraordinarily, club chair, Gin Stewart, got a magnificent hole in one on the first hole.

WIMBORNE Athletic Club’s Will Langridge stepped up to represent England in the Schools International in Carmarthen.

Will is a specialist triple jumper and earned his place as a result of his performance at the English Schools Athletics Championships in Birmingham.

Will was leading that competition after three rounds with a personal best but, despite two more personal bests, slipped back to fourth overall after a jump of 14m24.

In Carmarthen, however, poor, wet weather conditions limited his best to 13m79 –although that gave him a silver medal.

In the picture (from left) Linda Johnston and Nicky Wisniewski with lady captain Anne Scott and (left) Gin Stewart retrieves her ball after bagging a hole in one

Harry Bunce and Toby Bailey challenge another Malvern Town attack PHOTO : Ben Chandler Photography

Jack Eyers started in paddlesport with Wimborne Paddlesport and Poole Harbour Canoe Club in 2015

Eyers is off to Paris Games

by Bill Jaggs MEMBERS

of Wimborne Paddlesport and Poole Harbour Canoe Club were delighted when Jack Eyers was selected to represent Great Britain at the Paris Paralympic Games.

Jack will compete in the VL3 category for athletes with full function of their arms and trunk.

He will use a va’a, an outrigger canoe with a support float.

Jack started in paddlesport with the club in 2015, developing as a paddler at both Riverside Wimborne and Lake Pier.

His determination and skill were identified, and the club’s coaches helped him link to the British Canoeing talent pathways.

Jack trains mainly in Nottingham, but when back home in Bournemouth trains on the River Stour at Wimborne. Jack was devastated when he was not selected for the Tokyo

Bath club duo win competition GOLF

SUMMER finally arrived, just in time, for the Ladies Pairs Open at Wheathill Golf Club.

Some 32 ladies enjoyed a fun-filled day starting with a “Hit it to Win it” putting competition with lots of prizes to be won in aid of the British Porphyria Association.

The main competition was played in glorious sunshine with a welcome cooling breeze and a well-stocked “halfway house” to fill up on extra refreshments.

The winners were Polly Andrews and Suzannah Angelo-Sparling, from Bath Golf Club, with 44 points on count back.

They narrowly squeezed out Kate Cleverley, from Wheathill, and Bridget Caddy, from Long Sutton, in second place.

Third were Linda Johnson, from Wheathill, and Lesley Moore, from Tickenham Golf Club, with 43 points.

In the picture (from left) Polly Andrews, Jen Warmington – 2023 lady captain – and Suzannah Angelo-Sparling

2020 Games – which were rearranged to 2021 because of Covid – but bounced back in style to win his first World Championship Gold Medal in Copenhagen.

He retained his world title the following year and has gone on to European success.

Jack has been back to the club to offer advice and a session on how members should prepare their bodies and minds for training sessions.

In recognition of his success in the sport of para-canoe Jack was made a club life member in December 2021.

The Paralympics is a dream come true for Jack but reflects his determination and will to succeed.

n THE para-canoe events are scheduled to take place from September 6-8. For more information about the club, contact Bill Jaggs on 07594 607981 or bill.jaggs@phcc.org. uk

‘Mystery pairs’ at top fishery

by Gordon Wray MYSTERY Pairs was the order of the day when Poole and Wimborne Fly Fishers made the short trip to Damerham Trout Fishery.

On a warm muggy day with rain in the air, the fish did not bite early on but things picked up and some great fish were caught at what must be one of

GOLF

WINCANTON Golf Club results.

Seniors Captain’s Cup – July 16: 1 Rick Graham 37; 2 Mike Case 36 ocb; 3 Richard Strong 36.

Seniors Captain’s Cup nine-hole – July 16: 1 Alan Rogers 20; 2 Brian White 15; 3 Kevin Francis 14.

Monthly stableford – July 27: 1 Mike Case 39; 2 John Atkins 38; 3 Jim Stephen 35. The John Murphy Trophy –

ANGLING

the best fisheries in the land. A catch rate of more than 80% meant an eager wait while totals were checked and double checked.

The winners were Steve Hemingway and Mike Slater, who bagged a combined weight of 25lb 11oz.

August 2: 1 John Westaway 20; 2 Geoff Lye 18 ocb; 3 Mike Case 18.

August Masters – August 3-4: August Masters Trophy – Best combined nett score –Steven Ireland nett 140; Chandlers Master Trophy – Best combined Gross score – John Atkins gross 143.

Monthly stableford – August 10: 1 John Burns 42; 2 David Whitehand 41; 3 David Amann 38 ocb; 4 Mike Doddington 38.

Recruitment

HOUSE FAIRY REQUIRED to help look after our house 20 - 25 hours per week. Laundry, ironing and cleaning. Can be busy when all of the family are home. Ideal person will need to work under their own initiative and have a good sense of humour. Written references required. Tel: 07909 994919

DUFFIELDS SOUTH WEST, YEOVIL.

A family owned business

We are looking for a reliable HGV Class 2 driver to deliver bulk animal feed to farms.

Mon - Fri 50hrs a week , overtime available plus 1 in 3 Saturdays.

A very competitive package offered. Please apply in writing to swtransport@duffieldssouthwest.co.uk

FULL

TIME LIVE IN HOUSEKEEPER/COOK WANTED.

All aspects of housekeeping required in a private residence with excellent cooking skills. Flexibility required working 50 hrs per week including weekends.

Self-contained accommodation included.

Driving license essential.

Start date September 2024

Competitive salary

Please apply to stepletonestate@gmail.com with CV or phone 07470-433803

Experienced Live Stock & Site Co-ordinator

(Animal Welfare, Maintenance, Health & Safety) Based on a 30-acre farm

Salary Range: £27,040 - £29,120

This is a permanent full-time role. 52 weeks of the year, 28 days leave inclusive of Bank Holidays. 40 hours a week average over a two-week rotation with alternative weekends. A good degree of flexibility may be possible for the right candidate.

Proposed range of hours across a fortnight rotation:

Week 1: 8am-4:30/5pm Tuesday-Friday. Plus 7 hours each Saturday/Sunday. Week 2: 8am-5pm Tuesday-Friday. Leave can be taken as required in the hours given.

Please contact Julie Plumley on 01963 210793

Email: office@futureroots.net to arrange a visit and get an application pack.

Closing date: 9am on Monday 2nd September

Office Administrator

To assist with all clerical duties of the business including finance, invoicing, answering the telephone, health and safety, payroll. This position can either be full time or it can be split into two part time positions.

Wren Classics Ltd / Wren Sport are well know for their specialist and classical car knowledge and can do anything from servicing to ground up renovations.

This is a great opportunity to join a happy and friendly team in a local company based in Donhead St Mary, Shaftesbury.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Permanent Benefits:

• Casual Dress

• Company pension

TIMBER BUILDING

ERECTOR salary negotiable 01935 891195

ACCOMMODATION FOR PART-TIME HELP. Cottage with own garden in exchange for housekeeping/ maintenance/dog care. Would suit semi-retired active couple. No children or pets. Own car essential. CVs to courtfield23@outlook.com

TA GREEN BUILDERS

are looking to recruit a Carpenter. Driving license essential. Wages to be confirmed based on experience. If this is something you are interested in, please call 01963 34221 or 07515-327800

FULL-TIME GARDENER

WANTED. Experience preferred but not essential (full training provided). Please email info@ floramour gardeners.com

KEEN GARDENER, preferably qualified, to assist throughout year in large and varied garden near Shaftesbury. 1-2 days a week, 07771-707990

LEARNING SUPPORT

ASSISTANTS, 2 days pw/flexible, Gillingham area, Helping young people with limited speech/autism to achieve! Training provided. from £15 Hour. Role subject to DBS check. enquiries@ashward.co.uk

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 semi-retired 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

Sunday Groom

An enthusiastic Sunday groom is required to join an existing team on a private yard in West Dorset. You will be required to work every Sunday from the middle of October until the middle of March to cover the hunt season. You will be required to work 5 hours per day on a split shift of 3 hours in the morning and 2 hour in the afternoon. Duties will include mucking out stables, turning out, bringing in, feeding, hay and water.

Good rate of pay.

Please send CV with a covering letter highlighting all experience via email to estateoffice@ilchester-estates.co.uk or call Lee on 07974 428669 for further details

• Monday to Friday

• On-site parking Schedule:

• Work location: In Person

Tel: 01747 852899 for further information

Email your CV to: info@wrenclassics.com

Knights Barn Farm, Higher Coombe, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 9LS

GARDENER REQUIRED FULL TIME at Listed Country House near Milton Abbas. Must have reasonable knowledge of shrubs, pruning and vegetable gardening and be proficient with powered hedge trimmers, chain saws, motor mowers etc. Salary dependent on experience and cottage available if required.

Replies and CV to justin@langhamfarm.co.uk

Tractors

PURCHASE LEDGER ADMINISTRATOR BLANDFORD DEPOT

We are looking for a great team player to join our Finance Department based at our Blandford Depot, with at least two years’ experience of Purchase Ledger, with good IT skills including Word and Excel. For full details and to apply please go to our website https://www.candotractors.com/career/

Health Care Support Worker

Synergy Complex Care is currently recruiting for a Healthcare Support Worker to join a team supporting our client, a disabled veteran who has severe MS, in the Shaftesbury, Dorset area. Must be adaptable, broad minded with a sense of humour. Duties include, but are not restricted to, all personal care and hygiene tasks, hoisted transfers from bed to chair, helping with eating, light domestic duties and driving; some cooking may be required. Must be a dog lover. Experience preferred. Full training provided. Salary range £13.00-£16.25 per hour. Email info@synergycomplexcare.com or Call 0117 403 7878

SELF EMPLOYED EXPERIENCED GROUNDWORKERS/PLANT OPERATORS

We are looking for an experienced Groundworker who can also operate a 360° Excavator for local interesting contracts, working as part of a team. Applicants must be con dent in their ability to carry out all aspects of groundwork to a good standard with attention to detail. We o er a safe working environment with good rates of pay. Local work and an opportunity of long-term employment with a friendly family run business.

If you are that exible, skilled groundworker who can also operate plant to a good standard please call, Martin on 01258 455219 or email admin@farwellplanthire.co.uk

ROOFER REQUIRED to work for a Company based in Stalbridge

Please contact Roy 01963-362325 or 07905-281456

Recruitment

RELIABLE DRIVER REQUIRED. Full-time & Part-time. Details: 07813-209841

Independent Co-educational Boarding and Day School

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

Nursery Prep Senior Sixth Form

The Society of Heads/CISC

Nursery Supervisor (Maternity Cover)

Driver Required

Leweston School is seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated Nursery Supervisor (maternity leave) to oversee the daily operations of our Ofsted ‘outstanding’ nursery. This is an opportunity to lead a team of excellent, well-qualified and inspiring practitioners in a nurturing and stimulating environment for children aged 0 to 4 years. The position is 37 hours per week (hours to be agreed with the Head of Leweston Prep). Hours of work are between 7.30am and 6.15pm, Monday – Friday, in accordance with the duty shift rota. This is a fixed term post running from October 2024 to September 2025 covering maternity leave.

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 yo ung people. You must hold a valid PCV Manual, (D or D1) Licence

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

Applicants should be qualified to a minimum of NVQ Level 3 or equivalent and previous leadership is essential. The position comes with a competitive rate of pay and generous holiday allocations of 25 days plus bank holidays and discretionary leave between Christmas and New Year, in addition to a package of benefits which includes delicious meals for staff and use of leisure facilities, plus generous discounts on staff childcare and exceptional access to CPD and further 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 www leweston co uk

An enhanced DBS check will be undertaken by the School Closing date: 15th August 2017

For further information and to download an application pack please visit our website: https://www.leweston.co.uk/information/work-with-us Closing date for Applications: 30 August 2024

WITH A LARGE INVESTMENT INTO NEW MACHINERY, WE ARE LOOKING TO HIRE MULTIPLE PEOPLE TO HELP DRIVE THE BUSINESS FORWARD INTO THIS EXCITING NEW CHAPTER…

We are looking for people with skills suited to working in the following areas;

• Warehouse personnel for order picking and processing

• Steel preservation and paint line operatives

• Saw operatives

Experience in these areas is preferred but not essential as full training will be provided.

Applicants must be highly safety conscious, accurate and reliable with the ability to work as part of a team as well as under own initiative.

These roles require a proactive attitude, ideal for someone that likes to take ownership for their workload.

To be trained on all machinery including:

• Overhead cranes

• Sideloader

• Counterbalance forklift

• Steel sawing systems

• Shot blast and paint line

• HGV training can be provided for the right candidate

Benefits include:

• Free on-site parking

• Uniform and PPE provided

• Competitive salary

• Overtime opportunities

Looking for a career with a progressive future?

Please apply by emailing a CV to: neil.cahill@pulhamsteels.co.uk phil.cahill@pulhamsteels.co.uk tony.bailey@pulhamsteels.co.uk

Or by calling 01300 345110 for more details

CLASSIFIED ADS

DINING ROOM FURNITURE, Leather Suite, 3seater settee & Chair. Hypnos Beds. King Size. Plus white goods. All Good Quality Furniture. Blandford Forum. Call for details/to arrange viewing. Offers. Tel: 07597-966546

FOR SALE CARAVAN VANGO. Air Awning. Model kalari 380. Complete with Vango carpet. Good condition. Only used a few times. £500 ONO. 07712 839886.

KARMA FLEXX, 20” self propel folding light-weight wheelchair. VGC. £175. Tel: 07487-605434

LADIES COBRA GOLF CLUBS. Full set irons, 4 woods, Odyssey putter. Motocaddy M1 Electric trolly, lithium battery, charger, trolly bag. Everything £375 Tel 01747 840681

QUINGO ULTRA. Small damage to armrest. 3 years old. £900 ONO. 07546-679752

FREE CLASSIFIED ADS

McGREGOR ELECTRIC 12” Mower, Great for small garden. Good condition, £20-00, Tel: 01747-822772

PETROL LAWNMOWER with grass box. £30 ono, 07708-652839

GLASS LIGHT FITMENT. Beautiful solid thick opaque glass. Brass effect stem. Measurements 15” ht x 12” width. As new condition. £15. 01935-476002

BRAND NEW SOFT CUDDLY BUNNY rabbit £12 ono 01935-412892

BREVILLE DEEP FAT FRYER. Only used 6 times. £28. Tel: 01258-456497

SINGLE DIVAN BED. Hardly used. Spare room bed. £50. Phone: 01305-849490

PINE CHILDRENS BED 2’ 6” wide 4’ long, extending to 6’. Sprung mattress 5’ 8” long. VGC £40 07720-716135

JOHN LEWIS GUN METAL/ PEWTER ceiling light/chandelierfor 5 lightbulbs. Good quality and very good condition. £30. 07770 941622 (Mere area)

COT/BED & MATRESS. Good condition. £10. Tel: 07494-356444

NEW AND UNUSED 4 WHEEL folding rollator. Cost £90 with seat, brakes and bag. £45. Telephone Zeals. 01747 841556

CAST IRON 4 TEIR CANDELABRA for sale. 3 feet high. £30.00. 07762 818114

PANASONIC 43” TV. GWO. £45. Tel: 07447-903276

DOG CRATE 24” high, 22”wide, 36” depth. £20. Tel: 01258-456048 (Blandford)

BATHROOM MIRROR 22w 30L vgc. £5. Samsung television 38in. Vgc. £10 Tel. 07543-679877 Blandford area

NEW CAMPING GAS STOVE, with kettle and toast rack, never been used, bargain £30. Tel:01963 31930

ZERO GRAVITY RECLINING

GARDEN CHAIR with clip on table. As new, selling for £25. 01935 592843 cash and collect.

OPTI EXERCISE BIKE in vgc. £25 07802-760681

GREEN MINERAL FELT Heavy duty majority of 10 metre roll left in VGC £10, Tel 07891 987809

FOLDS FOR TRANSPORTATION

90 6x6INCH QUARRY TILES £18. 01747 840835

CHILD TABLE TOP FOOTBALL. 36 inches long. 20 inches wide. 8 inches deep with legs. £45 CASH. 07787-371823

MOTHERCARE COT MATTRESS in VGC. Little use as used for occasional grandchildren stays. 70cmx140cm. Removabe cover. FREE. 07596 787975

STIHL FS38 STRIMMER. £50. 01258 452118

2 PRETTY CHINA JUGS. 1 x 8.5” Red floral. 1x7” Grisela graham pink hearts. £7.00 each. 01963 350118/07527733046

GOLF CLUBS, balls+ lots moreoffers 01963 364079

KINETICO WATER SOFTENER block salt x 7 double packs. £40. Sherborne. 07774 680733

RUPERT ANNUALS, 1976-2007. small bear, clip and ornament. £50. Tel: 07542-058600 (mole valley area)

WHITE BIDET, as new. Lecico. 35cm wide X 50cm long. £20.00 Tel: 07971-902353 (nr Crewkerne)

LIGHT OAK CORNER TELEVISION table £25. 01963-371381

GO CHEF, 8in1 COOKER. Never been used. £30. Tel: 07791-847767

SINGER SEWING MACHINE 538 1970s. Working but poss best used for parts. £10. Tel: 07712 128202

OAK SAPLINGS 2 YEAR OLD. Home grown English Oak saplings needing new homes. £10 each. Diane 07890 887014

MAYPOLE GREEN CARAVAN COVER. Fits 5.6-6.2mtr (19-21ft). Brand new, never used. £50. 07874 266213, Blandford area.

BUILDERS - RSJ 4.7 metres x 130mm. £30. Buyer collects. Phone 07717 401733.

LADIES LANDROVER MATARARI mountain bike. Bought new for £200. ridden only a few times. £50. Tel: 07811-993795

GARDEN BENCH SEAT WOOD/ METAL study but needs a bit of TLC. £10 Gillingham area. 07769-708992

STEAM CLEANER - good condition and hardly used. £10 ONO. YEOVIL. Tel 07563 105 836

PLAN CHEST. Antique, solid, in good condition, 21 inch by 28 inch, so will take A2 size plans. £25 for quick sale. 01963 33388

18 stone/114kgs Good condition £35 Tel: 01935 814746

SWAN PYRAMID COOKER HOOD

New still in box cost £170, Space needed £50, 01258 881217

COMPACT TABLE TOP POKER

SET with poker chips/cards etc. As new barely used. Buyer collects Sturminster Newton. £15. Call 07799-777970

PINE CHAIRS - 3: solid construction (stretcher bars) but varnish worn. Bargain - £20 (STREET) 01458-443264

BIKE RACK REAR MOUNTED 1 bike £10. Tow bar mounted 3 bikes £20. Marnhull 07391-605274

WHITE PEDESTAL BASIN ideal for cloakroom/bathroom, central tap, 55cm wide 45cm deep. No damage £20. Tel 01258 472022

Field & Stream

All hands to the pumps for baling

by Tria Stebbing

JUST like that the weather broke, a brief window of opportunity appeared, and it was all hands on deck.

The diary was cleared, the fridge was stocked and the machinery tweaked. Baling started with a dummy run in a small field which produced 30 bales of sweet meadow hay, a quick job but it gave us time to empty the pole barn ready to stack the new bales in and to adjust the baler so that it did not intermittently spit out unknotted bales.

Three days later we were promised at least four days of extreme heat before the thunderstorms bought it to an abrupt end. The call was put out to family to muster at the field on designated bale day and we were off.

Weather forecast watching is clearly my new hobby. Chris took the tractor over on Day 1 and cut late afternoon – it was fine at home and conditions were great. So, the plan at the

end of that day was to leave the cut grass to lie before going back the next day to lift and turn to rotate the dried bits – Tedder.

Day 2 dawned sunny and bright and things were looking good as there was a good drying breeze as well as warm sunshine. I should say that we live a few miles away from our field and more importantly the other side of Bulbarrow Hill, which seems to make all the difference when anticipating the weather. Then the call came, although we were basking in sunshine it was, in fact, raining at the field. An ominous silence fell as we processed the thought that the field had been cut, the grass was lying on the ground, and it was raining. It turned out that it was okay, as we had not yet turned it, the shower was brief, and the sun returned to start the drying process.

Day 3 gave the field two more turns and a lovely smell of cooking grass, which only some will understand, and, my, it smelt great.

Day 4 arrived, and the forecasts started to come in for thunder later in the week, but timescales were sketchy and the decision was made to bale.

Generations of family arrived bearing gloves and refreshments and we began the long hot job of baling, loading and stacking the bales. It took us all four hours to clear the field and stack the bales away, backbreaking work in the heat, but rewarding, nonetheless.

Let it thunder. A barn stacked full of bales is a wonderful feeling, a feeling that outweighs

the exhaustion, muscle aches and bad backs. Feed for winter, and maintenance for the ground, so that it can start the circle of growth again. The covers are back on the equipment and the reels of bale twine returned to the store.

It takes time, patience, well maintained equipment and muscle to produce animal feed. When you are being held up in traffic by that stacked tractor and trailer, please be kind, it is a sight not to be taken for granted, especially with the climate changing.

Show serves up treats for dog lovers

NEXT month’s Dorset County Show promises “pawsome” fun for all the family with lots for dog lovers to enjoy.

The show is introducing a fun dog show organised by St Giles Animal Welfare with 16 classes over two days open to everyone.

Classes include loveliest lady, best biscuit catcher, most appealing eyes, best talent and junior handler.

Dogs of all shapes, breeds, sizes and personalities can be entered.

Dog lovers will also be able to browse more than 20 stands dedicated to man’s best friend – and gundog demonstrations in the countryside field.

The show will also be welcoming back the

internationally recognised gundog trainer and breeder, Nick Gregory.

He can offer all levels of training advice for anyone from novice handlers through to owners who wish to compete with their dogs.

James Cox, show organiser, said: “Everyone here at the county show loves their four-legged friends – it’s fantastic seeing everyone bringing their dogs to the show, so we thought this year we would have a fun family dog show.

“The show ensures a great day out for anyone who loves dogs.”

The show is a celebration of rural life in Dorset and remains faithful to its annual traditions

with livestock, crafts, food and drink, heavy horses and more at its heart.

The show is on Saturday and

Sunday, September 7 and 8 –for more information, and to book show tickets, visit www. dorsetcountyshow.co.uk

Four days of extreme heat were forecast, allowing work to start

Dorset County Show is introducing a

Rural crime costs farmers dear

Chilthorne Domer

by editor@dorsetbiznews. co.uk

Chilthorne Domer

THE cost of rural crime in Dorset rose 18% to roughly £410,000 last year, according to new figures from rural insurer NFU Mutual.

Guide: £525,000

to improve accuracy.

Guide: £525,000

46.89 acres (18.98 hectares) of productive level arable land situated to the north of Yeovil. For sale by Formal Tender as a whole, closing Wednesday 31st July 2024.

46.89 acres (18.98 hectares) of productive level arable land situated to the north of Yeovil. For sale by Formal Tender as a whole, closing Wednesday 31st July 2024.

Yeovil | 01935 382901

Yeovil | 01935 382901

Its report reveals that rural crime cost the UK as a whole an estimated £52.8 million in 2023, up from £50.6m the previous year.

Foyle Hill, Shaftesbury

Foyle Hill, Shaftesbury

In a sign of increasing organisation and sophistication among criminals, claims to NFU Mutual resulting from stolen GPS units soared 137% to £4.2m.

Without it, farmers and agricultural contractors can face severe delays and disruption to harvesting and cultivating work.

Quad bikes and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) were also top targets for rural thieves, with thefts up 9% to £3.2m in claim costs reported to NFU Mutual last year.

Guide: £150,000

Guide: £150,000

12.37 acres (5.00 ha) of undulating pasture land boasting spectacular far reaching views over the surrounding countryside. Suitable for agriculture, equestrian and amenity uses. For sale by Informal Tender, closing Wednesday 7th August 2024.

Sharp rises in inflation made farming equipment an attractive target for organised gangs, increasing the financial impact of each theft on the rural community.

However, a coordinated response against crime saw a reduction in the number of agricultural vehicle claims.

Matt Uren, senior agent at NFU Mutual Dorchester, said:

“All the indications suggest rural crime is becoming more organised, sophisticated and determined in its nature, which is incredibly alarming for people who live and work in the countryside.

12.37 acres (5.00 ha) of undulating pasture land boasting spectacular far reaching views over the surrounding countryside. Suitable for agriculture, equestrian and amenity uses. For sale by Informal Tender, closing Wednesday 7th August 2024.

Salisbury | 01722 334323

Salisbury | 01722 334323

Thieves have been found to frequently target several farms in one night, moving between locations to steal these highly valuable and portable kits and revisiting weeks later to take any replacements.

The high-tech equipment, typically priced at more than £10,000 a unit, is used to guide tractors and combine harvesters

Nr. Sturminster Newton

Nr. Sturminster Newton

However, the total claims cost for agricultural vehicle thefts fell 9% to £10.7m.

Livestock theft remained high, with an alarming spate of incidents in which farm animals were butchered in fields.

Bagber Common

NFU Mutual has provided more than £1m since 2021 to support initiatives tackling rural crime, and in 2023, it became a major funder of the National Rural Crime Unit (NRCU).

Farm animals worth an estimated £2.4m were severely injured or killed in dog attacks across the UK in 2023, up nearly 30% compared to the previous year.

Guide: From £375,000

Guide: From £375,000

A traditional farmyard development of just nine bespoke dwellings in a delightful rural location close to Sturminster Newton. Open Day 20th July, 11 am – 3 pm. Please call for an appointment.

A traditional farmyard development of just nine bespoke dwellings in a delightful rural location close to Sturminster Newton. Open Day 20th July, 11 am – 3 pm. Please call for an appointment. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Tuesday 20th August at 5.30pm Sunnymead Farm, Halstock, Yeovil, BA22 9RR Sale of 2 Tractors, Farm Machinery & Livestock Equipment, etc

Chilthorne Domer

Foyle Hill, Shaftesbury

Marnhull

Guide: £525,000

Guide: £1,350,000

Bagber Common Guide: £1,350,000

An extremely versatile detached family house with over 3300 sq ft of accommodation and a lovely west facing garden, set in a peaceful rural location with fine views over fields. CTB F.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

“While the overall cost of agricultural vehicle theft fell thanks to coordinated efforts, it’s concerning to see GPS thefts rocket up and quad bikes being increasingly targeted, with thieves turning to technology to scope out locations.

An extremely versatile detached family house with over 3300 sq ft of accommodation and a lovely west facing garden, set in a peaceful rural location with fine views over fields. CTB F.

“We know the impact of rural crime goes well beyond the practicalities of farming.

Formally established last April, the unit is staffed by police officers with experience in detecting and preventing rural crime, with investigative powers to track and intercept stolen machinery and equipment.

Stinsford

“That’s why it’s so important for insurers, farmers, manufacturers, police and politicians to continue to work together to provide a united response to the challenge presented by both organised criminals and opportunistic thieves.”

Guide £450,000

A 3 bedroom Grade II listed property forming part of a converted manor house, having links to Thomas Hardy, in a small hamlet on the edge of Dorchester.

3 bedroom Grade II listed property

Thursday 29th August at 12.00 Noon Larkinglass Farm, Motcombe, Shaftesbury, SP7 9HY

Dorchester | 01305 261008

Dorchester | 01305 261008

Reduction Sale of The ‘Mere Park Herd’ of Pedigree Devon Cattle

46.89 acres (18.98 hectares) of productive level arable land situated to the north of Yeovil. For sale by Formal Tender as a whole, closing

92 Head comp: 28 Cows with their Calves at Foot, 2 Pedigree Stock Bulls, 15 Served Heifers, 17 Steers, 2 Pedigree Stock Bulls (16/17mnths)

Guide: £150,000

12.37 acres (5.00 ha) of undulating pasture land boasting spectacular far reaching views over the surrounding countryside. Suitable for agriculture, equestrian and amenity uses. For sale by Informal Tender, closing Wednesday 7th August 2024.

Marnhull

Salisbury | 01722 334323

(In conjunction with Andrew Lane)

Land at Kings Mill Farm, Marnhull

Bagber Common

Guide: £400,000

A block of productive pasture and arable land extending to approximately 119.53 acres Offered on a 3 year Farm Business Tenancy. Available as a whole or in up to 3 lots by Tender

Maperton, Wincanton

Guide: £1,350,000

Guide: £400,000

A detached 3 bedroom house with private garden on the edge of the village built in 2019, Apple Tree Cottage encapsulates old cottage charm with modern fittings. CTB E.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Including: 2007 John Deere 5720 c/w Quike Q50 Loader (1780hrs), 2010 New Holland T5030 Deluxe (2058hrs), Joskin TR275 C3 Topper, JF CM1650 Drum Mower, Kuhn 300 Haybob, Teagle 45 Tipping Trailer, Hardi 600L 12m Sprayer, Parmiter Disc Harrows, Parmiter 16’ Chain Harrows, Kongskilde Triple K Cutlivator, Fulwood 3,800L Bulk Tank, Water Heaters, 72 Cubicle Loops, 250 Bags Mendip Sawdust, Silage Sheets, Gates, Troughs, Workshop Items, Livestock Sundries, etc

A detached 3 bedroom house with private garden on the edge of the village built in 2019, Apple Tree Cottage encapsulates old cottage charm with modern fittings. CTB E. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

On behalf of Mr & Mrs Crocker (Retiring)

An extremely versatile detached family house with over 3300 sq ft of accommodation and a lovely west facing garden, set in a peaceful rural location with fine views over fields. CTB F.

Maperton, Wincanton

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Tenders close 12 noon on Friday 6 September

Guide: £420,000

An attractive 3/4 bedroom house situated in an accessible location within the Blackmore Vale countryside, and with ample off-road parking. CTB C. Freehold.

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Contact Greg Ridout: 01935 382909/07817 517467

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Guide: £420,000

An attractive 3/4 bedroom house situated in an accessible location within the Blackmore Vale countryside, and with ample off-road parking. CTB C. Freehold.

Stinsford Guide £450,000

A

forming part of a converted manor house, having links to Thomas Hardy, in a small hamlet on the edge of Dorchester.

Autumn calving and a difficult problem

by Eleanor Livingstone VSc MRCVS DBR Friars Moor Livestock Health

AS autumn calving approaches, we hit a time of year where abortions are unfortunately becoming more common.

Abortions should occur at a prevalence of less than 3-5% of the herd, irrespective of the type of system that is run.

Abortions can be categorised into infectious or noninfectious.

Infectious causes of abortion:

n Bacterial – that is leptospirosis, bacillus, Q fever, salmonella, listeria

n Viral – for example, IBR, BVD, Schmallenberg

n Parasitic – for example, neospora

n Fungal

Non-infectious causes of abortion:

n Toxins

n Trauma

n Nutritional – for example, iodine deficiency

n Genetic defects

What to do when suffering from abortions?

Please contact us if you suffer from abortions.

APHA should be notified of all abortions and will choose to investigate in many situations, usually when more than one abortion has occurred on a holding or if a heifer aborts.

The APHA sampling will test for Brucelosis using a combination of vaginal swab, blood sample and composite milk sample.

Beyond the DEFRA testing we are keen to undertake a

thorough investigation to ascertain which abortive agent is responsible and whether there is anything that can be done to protect the rest of the herd.

Unfortunately, the cause is often undiagnosed but the chance of success in diagnosis can be significantly increased with multiple tissue samples.

The fresher the samples the better!

In order of “usefulness”, tissue that can be sampled includes the aborted foetus, the placenta and blood sampling the dam.

Please don’t forget your own hygiene when sampling aborted cows and aborted material.

Many of the infectious agents that can be responsible are also transmissible to people with a few also being transmitted through unpasteurised milk.

The cow is more likely to retain her placenta and may have a subsequent infection and temperature.

One of the things we must consider is that often aborted cows, especially towards the

end of pregnancy, can become quite unwell following an abortion.

Supportive care of NSAIDs – pain relief – and fluid therapy – pumping with a stomach pump – will, it is hoped, encourage the aborted animal to continue eating and decrease the likelihood of her suffering from any fresh cow diseases such as metritis or a DA.

Remember when making future decisions that Neospora is transmitted to the unborn foetus and a dam won’t always abort, so it is sensible to breed any aborted cows, if not culled, to terminal sire.

Please do contact us if you have experienced any abortions or would like any further information.

Eleanor Livingstone

Abortions should occur at less than 3-5% of the herd

Managing livestock below the soil

Dung beetles could be a farmer’s best employee, says Wiltshire farmer and entomologist Sally-Ann Spence. Speaking alongside plant and soil health expert Joel Williams on a recent episode of Cornish Mutual’s Farming Focus podcast, the pair discuss the importance of managing livestock below the soil.

Farmers are increasingly recognising the importance of the life beneath their fields. Healthy soil, with micro-organisms, micro-animals and insects such as dung beetles and earthworms, is crucial for nutrient cycling and water infiltration. These processes are fundamental for supporting robust plant growth and, consequently, healthy livestock.

“If you don’t have livestock below the soil, you can’t support the livestock above it,” says Sally-Ann. “Healthy soils grow really good plants that provide the nutrition for livestock.”

Dung beetles play a particularly important role in creating healthy soils according to Sally-Ann. The hardworking insect introduces organic matter into the soil making it available for earthworms and other organisms, as well as reducing compaction and aerating the soil through their tunnelling activities.

For farmers looking to encourage dung beetles, Sally-Ann recommends reducing livestock treatments and soil disturbance, and where possible keeping livestock out in the fields for as long as possible.

To improve soil biodiversity, Joel also recommends an approach which supports the organisms living in the soil.

“Keeping your soil covered is one of the best things farmers can

do,” says Joel. “Many of the micro-organisms living in the soil like to grow in association with plants.”

Although making changes can be daunting, focusing on having the right mindset and engaging in knowledge exchange can help says Joel: “Vital to fostering a mindset change is peer-to-peer learning.”

Listen to the full episode of Cornish Mutual’s Farming Focus Podcast at https://www.cornishmutual.co.uk/news-advice/farmingfocus-podcast/ - also available via Spotify and Apple podcasts.

Helping you make

SHIPPING CONTAINERS FOR SALE

Tel: 01258 472288 / Mob: 07977 936109

New and second hand containers - blue/green - all with box

FRIDAY

WEDNESDAY 18th SEPTEMBER SALE

ADVICE ON ALL CLASSES

STORE & BREEDING SHEEP

STOCK PLEASE CALL BRADLEY TOWELL 07496 263916 TOM ROGERS 07384 462288

TREVOR ROWLAND 07968 480401 LESTER WILLIAMS 07778 646031

ROSS WHITCOMBE 07815 985737 CLIVE PEACH 07970 620859 ANDREW FRIZZLE 07977 136863

Frome Livestock Market, Standerwick, Somerset, BA11 2QB 01373 830033 info@fromelivestock com www fromelivestock com

HEDGE CUTTING.

Tel: 01747-85598

ALL TYPES OF FENCING AND TOPPING

Tel: 01747-85598

CARAVAN REMOVAL

SERVICE, old, unwanted caravans, cars, trailers, vans etc. Garden machinery, tractors, scrap metal. Yard, garden, garage removal clearances undertaken, dismantling and gas cutting service. Please call 01935 873169 or 07368380477.

STOCK PERSON/TRACTOR

DRIVER POSITION available on our forward thinking dairy, beef and arable farm. Located near Wimborne Dorset. Fun, friendly team on a well invested farm. Accommodation available. To express an interest please contact david. rj.mckie@gmail.com.

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

HAY, BIG BALES 2024, £30 each buyer collects, Todber - 07799 355301

POL HYBRID PULLETS for sale.Various egg colours available. 07545-468700

CONCRETE GROOVING SERVICE. Cowco Southern. Call Ted: 07970-965040

D CONIO COUNTRYSIDE SERVICE’S. General farm/ Countryside maintenance. Work including Fencing/ Digger Work/ Welding and Fabricating. Call David on 07813835678

APPROX 220 CONCRETE RAILWAY SLEEPERS for sale £20 each plus VAT We can deliver for an extra charge Phone Roger on 01202 826502 or 07885826396.

Equestrian

LAND

& PROPERTY AUCTION, THURSDAY 19 SEPTEMBER AT THE DIGBY MEMORIAL CHURCH HALL, SHERBORNE DT9 3NL AND VIA LIVESTREAM

Wimborne Guide £18,000

0.55 acres of permanent pasture situated just over 2 miles from Wimborne town centre with vehicular access from the A31.

Wimborne | 01202 882103

Ferndown Guide £40,000

4.25 acres of mature mixed woodland with direct road access in a secluded location on the southern edge of Holt Heath.

Wimborne | 01202 882103

Affpuddle Guide £200,000

0.35 acres of land with a range of buildings with possible development potential subject to planning permission/consents, in a peaceful village location.

Wimborne | 01202 882103

Charmouth

£175,000

A classic three bedroom period cottage requiring complete modernisation in the desirable village of Charmouth close to the beach and shops. CTB C, Freehold.

Bridport | 01308 422313

Iwerne Minster £385,000

An attractive three-four bedroom period property for modernisation. situated in a popular village with outbuildings and off-road parking. 0.34 acres. CTB F, Freehold. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Burton Bradstock Guide £600,000

64.93 acres of productive level to sloping grass and arable land with outstanding sea views over Freshwater Bay and including the remains of a stone barn. Accessed via a track to the north, Freshwater Beach is 0.7 miles on foot whilst Burton Bradstock is 1 mile and Bridport is 2 miles.

Burraton House | 01305 236237

East Stoke Guide £125,000

A single building plot in a sought after Purbeck village measuring 0.35 acres with outline planning permission for a detached dwelling.

Wimborne | 01202 882103

Tarrant Gunville

£225,000-£250,000

A detached two bedroom period property in need of complete renovation with a range of outbuildings and a pretty cottage garden situated in Cranborne Chase. CTB D, Freehold.

Blandford | 01258 452670

Wareham

£400,000-£425,000

An attached three bedroom property for updating/extension (STPP) with campsite, paddock and outbuildings enjoying views over heathland.3.60 acres. CTB E, Freehold. Wimborne | 01202 843190

East Stour Guide £150,000

A single building plot with full planning permission for a detached three bedroom dwelling situated centrally in this popular North Dorset village.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Salwayash, Bridport

£300,000

A detached two bedroom property for refurbishment in 0.25 acres, situated in a rural location on the edge of the village enjoying countryside views.

CTB B, Freehold.

Bridport | 01308 422313

Winterborne Zelston £595,000

A detached 3 bedroom Grade II Listed village house in need of renovation in a tucked away location with extensive outbuildings, paddocks and gardens. 2.99 acres. CTB G, Freehold. Blandford | 01258 452670

Maiden Newton Guide £300,000

A well-positioned building plot with full planning permission for a detached two storey dwelling, double garage and access. About 0.35 acres (0.14 ha)

Dorchester | 01305 261008

Sturminster Newton £140,000

A charming two bedroom end of terrace cottage for refurbishment in a tucked away town centre position within the Conservation Area. CTB C, Freehold.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Winterbourne Abbas

£350,000

A development opportunity to refurbish the existing 4-bedroom property and build a detached house at the rear, subject to necessary permissions. CTB E. Freehold.

Dorchester | 01305 261008

Corscombe

£650,000

A unique detached property for modernisation with an annexe, stabling and a range of outbuidings in 6.65 acres enjoying a rural location with countryside views. CTB E & A, Freehold. Beaminster | 01308 863100

LAND & PROPERTY AUCTION, THURSDAY 19 SEPTEMBER AT THE DIGBY MEMORIAL CHURCH HALL, SHERBORNE DT9 3NL AND VIA LIVESTREAM

Kingsbury Episcopi Guide £25,000 0.88 acres of level pasture land with mature hedgerow boundaries and mature trees in a peaceful location to the southwest of the village.

Yeovil | 01935 382901

Hurcott, Ilminster Guide £225,000

A detached two bedroom period cottage in need of modernisation within gardens and grounds of 0.21 acres in a delightful rural setting.

CTB D, Freehold.

Ilminster | 01460 200790

CORNWALL & DEVON

North Perrott Guide £525,000 (whole) 52.02 acres of of level to gently sloping grass land near North Perrott, in two lots both with mains water independent access. Lot A 4.16 acres £460,000, Lot B 3.86 acres £65,000. Burraton House | 01305 236237

Hurcott, Ilminster Guide £250,000 A character property with two bedrooms providing excellent scope for modernisation. Enjoying a generous plot of 0.44 acres in a rural yet accessable location. CTB E, Freehold. Ilminster | 01460 200790

A. Freehold

Axminster | 01297 33122

Liskeard Guide £150,000

A semi detached three bedroom cottage for refurbishment with a garage and garden situated in a rural village about 2 miles from Liskeard.

CTB C, Freehold.

Axminster | 01297 33122

terrace cottage requiring complete refurbishment enjoying a semi-rural setting in gardens and grounds of 0.14 acres.

CTB C. Freehold.

Axminster | 01297 33122

Chard Guide £70,000

A mid-terrace period property over three floors for complete renovation situated at the top of the High Street within the Conservation Area. CTB B, Freehold.

Ilminster | 01460 200790

Seavington St Mary Guide £300,000 An elegantly proportioned detached period house requiring general improvement, with part-walled

achieved an average success rate of over 90% so far in 2024, selling land

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Festival ‘glamping’ site would be housed in barn

APPROVAL is being sought for a farm building to be used in part to store a “glamping” site at the Glastonbury Festival.

Work is already underway on a new barn building on land off Cockmill Lane, in East Pennard, which borders the festival site.

The application, submitted by agent Nick Hiscox on behalf of Ty Cook, seeks retrospective permission for a “modern ‘Dutch barn’” with an area of around 1,250sqm.

It sits in the area used during the festival for Festibell, an off-site glamping complex.

“The new building sits on part of a land holding totalling

approximately 77 acres,” it said.

“The land has been owned by the applicant’s family for over 130 years and is currently farmed by the applicant.

“There are no other buildings on the farm to meet the present and future needs of the applicants as they seek to develop the farm business.”

The primary use of the structure would be to store “farm machinery and ancillary items as well as fodder storage for that produced on the farm”, the application said.

It would also be used “for storage in support of the farm’s permitted development rights

and that of the farm’s diversification project –Festibell – a licensed event that takes place for five days in conjunction with the Glastonbury Festival,” it added. It is not planned to use the building to keep livestock, the plan said. A previous application to develop agricultural buildings on the site

was approved in 2019.

The Festibell luxury campsite is one of a number of businesses that operate on the periphery of Glastonbury, including nearby Camp Kerala, Love Fields and Glastotel.

For more details on the application, log on to somerset. gov.uk and search for reference 2024/1253/FUL.

PROPERTY TO LET

LARGE DOUBLE ROOM, en-suite shower, Available 01/09/24. Spacious, comfortable bungalow. Outside King’s Stag, Good local amenities. Parking, lovely garden, wi-fi. All bills included. £600pcm. Call 07760-584389

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