The New Blackmore Vale - Issue 109

What’s inside this issue…

emailing newsdesk@blackmorevale.net or calling 01963 400186

Kye Harman Sports Editor sports@blackmorevale.net 01963 400186

Debi.thorne@blackmorevale.net 07714 289409

07714 289411

Sporty Santas

Marnhull tennis fanatics can now play through the night thanks to new lights Page 12

Plan for 107 homes approved despite concerns town has ‘reached

MORE than 100 homes can be built at the edge of Shaftesbury following the approval of plans.

Persimmon Homes has been given the green light by Dorset Council to build 107 houses on land south of the A30 Salisbury Road in Shaftesbury.

The houses would form part of a wider development, with Persimmon already granted permission to build 55 houses to the west of the site.

Both developments would share an access onto the A30.

As part of this wider development, Persimmon would also provide land for a new school in the future as well as “flexible commercial uses” which will form a care home, a hotel and non-food retail units.

be able to cope with the impact of new houses.

“There are not enough Drs and dentists available to man the existing practises,” it read.

would include 34 “affordable” units comprising of 24 affordable rent and 10 discount market units with some shared ownership.

Persimmon originally planned to build 135 houses but reduced this down to 107 following concerns surrounding the proposed layout.

The houses would be a mix of two, three and four bed houses and bungalows which

The plans were approved at a meeting of the Northern Area Planning Committee at Dorset Council on Tuesday (November 5).

In a written submission, Melbury Abbas and Cann Parish Council raised concerns the infrastructure in Shaftesbury would not

“Where are all these people going to work? All will need to use their cars as public transport is near non existent – so much for saving the planet.”

It added: “With a minimum of 1,048 new houses built in the last 20 years I think Shaftesbury has reached its limit.”

Ben Walker, speaking on behalf of Persimmon at the meeting, said they have been working with Dorset Council so that the scheme “meets the local needs of the area” and will provide a mix of starter homes for first time buyers as well as larger family homes.

“Approximately £700,000 will be invested into local services and infrastructure… primarily in health services and local schools,” he added.

Public services facing increased pressures as budget gap grows

DORSET Council is forecasting an overspend of £13.2 million by the end of this financial year, equivalent to 3.5% of the £376.7 million budget set in February 2024.

This is an increase on the £10.1 million that was forecast at the end of July.

Much of the overspend is due to increases in demands on services growing faster than expected, particularly in adult social care.

The number of adults requiring support from the council is higher than those forecast when the budget was set.

Dorset has the largest

population of older people per capita of any other county in England and the council is now seeing an increase in demand to help for carers who can no longer support family members, meaning that the council is now providing the care that is needed.

The process to set the council’s budget for next financial year is well underway, and the current forecast budget gap is £35 million, around 9% of the budget.

Increases to council tax and business rates are set by government, and the provisional detail of local government funding settlements for next year will not be announced until

Reach for the stars

DANCERS from the Caron Parry School of Dance, in Shaftesbury, were crowned champions at Blackpool Grand Finals in Ballroom and Latin American Dancing.

Twelve dancers travelled to Blackpool for the competition, which is a highlight in the ballroom and Latin American dancing calendar. The dancers have competed in national competitions throughout the year to earn their place at the Grand Finals, which is in its 24th year.

The School had its best year ever, coming away with 19 awards, including eight champions and three vicechampions.

The dancers are aged eight to over 70 years and train anything from once to three times a week and are trained by Caron Parry and her son Adam Parry. Find out more at www. caronparryschoolofdance.co.uk.

(L-R) Christopher

late December.

Cllr Simon Clifford, Dorset Council Cabinet Member for Finance and Capital Strategy said:

“We continue to work hard to reduce our overspend. We have acted quickly to make sure that resources are used efficiently to deliver the council’s services in a sustainable way.

“The promise made as part of the Autumn Statement of a 3.2% real terms funding increase does not go far enough to address the underfunding for Dorset Council. The increase to national living wage and national insurance will put significant pressure on many of the small

and medium size businesses that provide much needed local employment. Many of these businesses also provide services for the council and may look to the council for help meeting this additional burden. Without fair funding, it’s not clear how this cost can be met. We now await the detail of what this means for us in Dorset, which we expect will come in late December.

“Like many councils across the country our financial position is extremely challenging, and it is more than likely we will need to make very difficult decisions to meet our legal responsibility to set a balanced budget.”

Wimborne unites in remembrance

THE sacrifices of those who have died in conflict were honoured in Wimborne by a parade, church service and wreath-laying on Remembrance Sunday.

The event was staged by the town council with the Wimborne branch of the Royal British Legion and The Minster on Sunday, November 10.

The Rector of Wimborne Minster, the Revd Canon Andrew JW Rowland, conducted the service, assisted by town clergy.

The Revd William French, chaplain of Wimborne Royal British Legion, gave the address.

The parade began from the Royal British Legion and finished at The Minster for the service at 3pm. After the service, individuals and organisations gathered at the war memorial on Minster Green and laid wreaths remembering the Fallen of past and current wars.

A two-minute silence followed, and the bugle and bagpipes were played.

Sykes, Helen Kunze, Julie Sykes, Emma Hurst, Samantha Pearcey, Elizabeth Love, Anaya Mudoti, Megan Parry and Alex Turner

Christmas fair that promises to save lives

THE 30, between 11am and 2pm at the Tarrant Keynston village hall (DT11 9JE).

has been running a Christmas fair in aid of the SalisburySudan Medical Link charity.

of South Sudan, a desperately poor country. All the funds raised go directly to the places of need, overseen by the volunteer medical and administrative staff. The high maternal death rate is being helped by the Link’s provision of midwife training and birthing kits to aid a safe delivery.

medicines we sent out 500 birthing kits to the 16 health clinics we support. families.”

homemade goods including cakes, sweets, jams and craft items. New this year is the bee and honey stall. Browse the books, try your hand at the games or take a chance on Santa’s surprises and come away with a guaranteed mystery present!

the doctors working on projects in South Sudan.

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Working together in Further Education for Dorset

The first term at the newly formed Weymouth and Kingston Maurward College has been a dynamic period of growth, exploration and integration. The merger of these two colleges has brought together a unique combination of land-based and general further education that will benefit students across Dorset and beyond.

At Weymouth, new and returning students are immersing themselves in a wide array of disciplines, from A-Levels and creative arts to sports and vocational training. The vibrant campus is a hub of academic ambition, bolstered by expert teaching staff and industry-standard facilities, including a professional restaurant, theatre and hair and beauty salons.

Meanwhile, Kingston Maurward continues to uphold its reputation as a premier destination for land-based studies. Courses in agriculture, animal science and equine studies draw students from a wide area, passionate about connecting their education with the environment and the rural economy. The campus, rich with natural beauty and practical learning spaces, offers a unique, hands-on approach that complements traditional learning and fosters a strong connection to the countryside.

Teams from across the two campuses have been working together and sharing resources during a busy start to their first term, visiting local schools and careers fairs, hosting open events, welcoming expert guest speakers and arranging trips, alongside day-to-day classroom activities and building on an outstanding student support offering. The newly-merged college focuses on combining practical, real-world experience with robust academic foundations, catering to diverse interests and setting students on the right pathway for future careers.

Interim Principal and CEO, Kate Wills, commented: “The first term has truly showcased the strength of our combined campuses. Our mission to provide diverse, high-quality education for our students is well underway, and we are excited to continue building a community where every learner can thrive and succeed.”

As the term progresses, Weymouth and Kingston Maurward College remains committed to enhancing educational opportunities, enriching the student experience and building resilient connections with the local community.

To find out more, visit www.wkmc.ac.uk

Here comes the bride…

WOULD you like to see your wedding dress on display?

St Mary’s church in Sturminster Newton has held an exhibition of wedding dresses, in conjunction with the Wedding Fair held in the town, for the last two years.

Organisers are looking for wedding dresses to display in the 2025 exhibition, which will be held on January 24-25.

“Many weddings have a fascinating background story whether recent or from years in the past,” said a spokesperson.

“We display your stories with the dresses together with any memorabilia and accessories (photos, shoes, veils) that help recreate the memory of the day.

“We have been able to include family wedding dresses across the generations, wartime and vintage dresses, new dresses and some of different colours. Each has its own unique tale to tell…

“There will be bridal flower arrangements and hats on display, all of which create a beautiful atmosphere.

“If you or your family have a cherished wedding dress, old or new, simple or elaborate, that you are happy to lend to us for the 2025 display, we would love to hear from you.”

Email rm.damerell@gmail. com to find out more.

Visitors can see all the dresses on display at St Mary's Church on January 24-25 as part of the Wedding Fair at the Exchange in Sturminster Newton.

Full steam ahead

Text by Mike Bignell; Photo by Geoff Bignell

MERCHANT Navy steam loco Clan Line (35028) is returning to the Blackmore Vale on Wednesday, December 4, pulling an excursion from Waterloo for a carol service at Sherborne Abbey.

The engine was built in 1948 at Eastleigh and rebuilt in 1959 to change its streamlined appearance to what it looks like today.

Merchant Navy locos were named after shipping lines that used Southampton Docks, then owned by Southern Region Railways.

The loco was named in 1951 by Lord Rotherwick, chair of Clan Line.

Clan Line bears the shed plate 73A, representing Stewarts Lane, where it was based for much of its life and indeed now.

The train will arrive at Sherborne at 1.15pm and proceed to Yeovil Junction to be serviced and turned for the return trip. Scheduled departure from Sherborne is at 4.50pm.

Exact timings at other stations, together with its progress on the day, can be seen on Real Time Trains website detailed search, where it will show as a special in italics.

Search for Sherborne and it will show up for 13.15, then a click will open up its proposed time at every station.

Clan Line can be seen at speed at Tisbury or Templecombe, or up close at Gillingham and Sherborne, where it will be running slowly and stopping, albeit out of the end of the platforms because of the length of the train.

One of the best places to see and hear the loco will be Sherborne station as it sets off from the level crossing through Castleton in the dark at the start of its return leg to London.

Station project

THE Spetisbury Station Project is planning to hold a Christmas fundraiser at the station.

Visitors will be able to enjoy seasonal refreshments and buy last-minute presents including good quality second-hand railway books, DVDs and railway gifts.

The event is on Sunday, December 15, and the Quayside Choir at noon and Blandford Ukulele Group at 1pm will provide music.

Visitors will be asked for a cash donation in aid of the Spetisbury Station Project to maintain and improve the station site.

If wet, the event will take place at Spetisbury Village Hall.

Find out more at www.spetisburystationproject.co.uk

Desperately seeking Santas Village’s night at the races

ENTRIES are now being accepted for the Santa Stour River Fun Run, organised by Wimborne Rotary Club in aid of Julia’s House children’s hospice and other Rotary supported charities.

The run is on Sunday, December 15, and starts at 10am from Wimborne Town Football Club, Ainsley Road, Wimborne (BH21 2FU), where free parking is available.

Entrants can choose from either a 2.5km or 5km course with the route in part running alongside the River Stour. Entry is £10 for adults and £5 for under-18s.

Entrants should pre-book by registering at www. wimbornerotary.org/giving.

Limited places will be available for runners on the day but pre-booking guarantees a place.

Participants can choose to receive a free Santa suit, or a festive hat, and a free mince pie and drink will be on offer at the finish.

Whether entering as an individual, a family, or as a team, runners are also encouraged to fundraise for their own favourite charities by seeking their own sponsorship.

Run organiser, Rotarian Neil Hutchinson, said: “Once again we will welcome all runners to this fun charity event.

“We have secured a local sponsor for the run but are still looking for any other local businesses which would like to become involved through sponsorship or by helping on the day”.

THE SERO charity, which raises money for Julia’s House Children’s Hospice and local good causes, is holding a race night at Child Okeford Village Hall.

Eight races will be shown with guests betting on the outcome on Sunday, November 24. The event also includes bar, silent auction and raffle.

Tickets priced £15, including two-course light supper, are available from serocharity@gmail.com, or phone Julie on 07749 486733 or Kate on 07725 245066. Doors open 7pm and the races start at 7.30pm.

Runners warm up for a previous Wimborne Rotary Santa Fun Run

A fond farewell to Peter

ST Mary’s Church Sturminster Newton saw a packed congregation for the funeral of Peter Cooke (pictured).

Peter was born into a farming family and started his life at Castle Farm, Sherborne, before moving to Ramshill Farm, Manston, when he was 10 – a farm his father was proud to purchase for a mere £11,000 in 1964. On leaving school at 15, Peter joined his parents running the farm, milking cows in tie-ups, filling churns daily and lifting hay bales off the fields with pitch forks.

was treasurer of the Sturminster Newton Carnival Committee, and had a gift for fund raising. He joined Aliens Carnival Club, followed by Just Georges Carnival Club, entertaining the crowds on both the local and Bridgwater circuits for many years.

Last lectures of the year

THERE are still seats available at the last few lectures of 2024 at Dorset Museum and Art Gallery, Dorchester (DT1 1XA).

On Wednesday, November 27 (7pm–8.30pm), writer and academic Dr Kevan Manwaring will offer an entertaining guided tour of Dorset’s rich literary heritage in ‘The Literary Landscapes of Dorset’.

Peter joined the Sturminster Newton Young Farmers’ Club in 1972, taking the role of assistant secretary and eventually rising to Dorset County chairman. The YFC was a huge part of his life; as Sturminster’s club leader and president, he won awards for public speaking and became a public speaking trainer and judge.

In 1986 Peter’s parents retired and Pete took over the farm. Sadly, in 1998 Peter retired from farming due to ill health and the much-loved family farm was sold. He found a new love – carnival. Peter

Peter was working at Shaftesbury Tesco petrol station, a job he loved, when, in 2015, he had a sudden devastating stroke at the age of 61.

“The past nine years has been soul destroying,” says his sister Sue. “Pete was bedbound, tube fed and trapped, reliant upon an enormous team of doctors, nurses and carers to whom the family will be forever grateful.

“Peter was the most funniest, kindest, generous partner, brother, brother-in-law, uncle and friend to so many, but most of all courageous in the last years of his truly amazing selfless life. A life well lived and so loved.”

40 years of buried treasure

DORSET’S own Stour Valley Search & Recovery Club is turning 40!

Founded by detectorist John Wilson four decades ago, this small, dedicated group of metal detector enthusiasts has been revealing the secrets of Dorset’s past – most often one by one, whatever the weather.

From the humble beginnings of just a few visionary detectorists, including present club member Andy Mitchell, the club has forged a close and trusting relationship with the Dorset farmers who allow the club to explore their available fields, and who share the value of any significant discoveries.

Some of the club’s finds can be found in one of Dorset’s museums, such as a 4,000 year old pure gold Lunula (little moon) necklace, which the detectorist first thought was an old sardine tin – though sardine tins are not usually valued at over £12,000!

Central to the club’s ethos is a very strict compliance with legislation covering the finding of defined objects and metals, which must be reported to HM coroner.

Most finds do not come under such legislation, but many are nevertheless recorded on an excellent national database of objects of archaeological interest – the Portable Antiquities Scheme – which is open for anyone to search.

If you are a landowner and would like to learn more about this respected club, or even to just find your lost tractor keys, then just email the club at stourvalleysearchandrecovery@gmail.com

Thomas Hardy, Jane Austen, John Fowles and Tracy Chevalier are only some of the great writers whose work has both drawn upon Dorset and has become associated with its landscapes and landmarks.

On Thursday, December 12 (7pm–8.30pm), Dr Martin Smith presents the latest findings of an archaeological project investigating life, death and society in Iron Age Dorset – ‘A People Apart: New Scientific Insights into Life, Death and Society in Iron Age Dorset’. Archaeologists from Bournemouth University have been excavating on farmland near Winterborne Kingston since 2009. In particular the project has revealed a large number of human burials – the most direct evidence we have for past lives. Booking is required for all lectures. Find out more and book online at www.dorsetmuseum.org, call 01305 262735 or email enquiries@ dorsetmuseum.org

Weekend wonders

YOUNGSTERS will be counting down to Christmas in a workshop at Shaftesbury Library. They will be making a snowman advent calendar on Saturday, November 30, between 11am and noon. The activity is suitable for children aged four to 11; an adult must attend with those under eight. Call Shaftesbury library on 01747 852256 or email shaftesburylibrary@ dorsetcouncil.gov.uk. Book via Eventbrite to guarantee a space. More activities will be on offer for children at the library every Saturday until Christmas.

Tools taken

COPPER piping, fittings and tools worth several thousands of pounds were stolen from a Bradford Abbas firm.

Three burglars gained entry to Heatwave Mechanical Services, at Clifton Maybank, between around 1.15am and 3.30am on Friday, November 8.

PC Matt Robinson, of Sherborne police, said: “This was a high value commercial burglary that has had a significant impact on a local business.

“We are carrying out a number of enquiries to identify those responsible and I would urge anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity in the area during the early hours of Friday 8 November 2024 to please contact us.

“I would also urge any residents in the area with home CCTV systems or doorbell cameras, as well as motorists with dashcam footage who may have been in the vicinity, to please review their footage for anything that might assist our investigation.

“Finally, I would urge anyone who comes across items such as copper or tools being offered for sale locally or online in suspicious circumstances to please report it to us.”

Anyone with information about the incident should contact Dorset Police via www. dorset.police.uk, or by calling 101, quoting incident number 55240172230, or Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or on 0800 555 111.

Arrest after 100 turn out for rave near Bruton

AROUND 100 people attended an unlicensed music event at a woodland near Alfred’s Tower in South Brewham.

Officers arrived at the site at around 11.45pm on November 9, with the event in full swing, to close access roads.

“A man in his late teens was

arrested at 10.15am on Sunday, November 10 on suspicion of causing a public nuisance, and remains in police custody,” a police spokesperson said.

“The Neighbourhood Policing Team understand the impact of such unauthorised events on people living nearby,

and the potential effects to livestock in more rural areas.

”The local team will be working with the community to address local concerns regarding unlicensed music events in the area and offer guidance and support to prevent further similar incidents.”

The history of our homes

A NEW book on some of Dorset’s most significant houses is out now.

Dorchester-based author John Lowe has researched, compiled, written and illustrated the 120-page local architectural heritage book Dorset Houses - From Bronze Age to 21st century

In it he explores some of Dorset’s finest houses and humbler dwellings, from the Bronze Age to the 21st century, revealing how they were designed, used and constructed.

Discover works of the most significant architects and designers; 40 historic and 18 modern architects from local to international significance. Paintings, photographs and historic images bring the buildings back to life, vividly portraying their historic evolution.

Discover also the controversies behind their designs, like the difference between King Charles’s traditional vision at Poundbury and the CZWG Post-modern vision at Brewery Square, both in Dorchester.

twists to the understanding of these historic buildings.

Architectural detective work pieces together the way that the Constable’s House in Christchurch, first built in 1160, was made and used. The unsuspected existence of the medieval Manor House of the Abbot of Sherborne is discovered at Stalbridge and new clues reveal a different development sequence at Athelhampton House.

John Lowe has had a long and distinguished career as an architect, supporting the conservation of historic buildings, first at Burnley, then at Dorset County Council. He has worked with archaeologists, artists and historians to develop interpretations of sites and buildings.

In 1994 he founded and managed Dorset Architectural Heritage Week until it was taken over by East Dorset Heritage Trust.

The book is the well-researched result of 15 years of endeavour and is available at Waterstones stores in Dorchester, Bridport and elsewhere. It

Feeling festive at Gillingham library…

December 3-17 vote for your favourite Christmas tree in the Festival.

December 7 (10.30am11.30am) Christmas craft and story.

December 5, 12, 19 (10.15am-10.45am) Christmas Rhyme Time –suitable for under 5s.

December 9, 23 (2.15pm2.45pm) SENsational Story and Play.

December 17 (5pm-6pm) Carols and readings with Gillingham Arts Workshop.

December 23 (10.30am11.30am) Christmas Craft and story.

December 30 (10.30am11.30am) Fun with Lego. Contact Gillingham Library for details and to book; 01747 822180 or

Lights, rackets, action!

MARNHULL Tennis Club goes under the spotlight after new floodlights mean players can now enjoy a game at any time of day or night.

2024 has been quite a year for Marnhull Tennis Club, and today (22 November) it is officially unveiling its new floodlights, with a celebration for club members and supporters at Marnhull village hall from 6pm, with floodlights on from 4.30pm for members to play.

The tennis club is a friendly club, serving Marnhull and the surrounding community, and there are now 250 members.

The Junior section expanded this year, with development sessions through the summer and two Junior Doubles matches –the club won both.

The Senior mixed teams won the Shaftesbury A League and were runners-up in the B League.

There was a Combined Men/Women Club Singles Tournament, and a Doubles Tournament, blending team players with other club members. The Juniors too enjoyed an exciting tournament.

Meanwhile, the club committee as

completing a four-year plan to install floodlights.

A project like this, in a muchloved village, requires numerous supporters –financially and emotionally.

The backing of many immediate neighbours, the Green Team, Hook Electrics, the Village Hall Committee and the Parish Council has been invaluable, said a spokesperson for the club.

Financially, as well as the significant input from club members, grants were awarded from Dorset Council Shared Prosperity and Levelling Up Funds and donations received from the Parish Council, Dorset LTA, the Village Hall, CG Fry and AJN Steelstock, together with an LTA loan.

The floodlights will allow much more playing time in winter – after school for the

Junior section, and for members who are working during the day.

Teams can now enter winter leagues and all year round tennis coaching will be possible.

Finally, it will encourage good health and mental well-being during the dark, winter months.

Marnhull Tennis Club would like to offer a heartfelt thank you to all who made this possible.

Christmas Fair at Bryanston School

Welcome to our 1st Christmas Fayre at Bryanston School!

After three years of running our hugely successful Bryanston Summer Fair, Wessex Events invite you to join us at our first Bryanston Christmas Fair on the 23rd and 24th November.

With over 90 stands inside and out, selling food, drink, crafts and homeware gifts, this is the perfect place to start your Christmas shopping.

We also have 2 wreath making sessions running each day. You can book your place on the workshop by following this link. https://www.bryanston.co.uk/christmas-wreaths

Local musician Phil Smith will be playing and singing throughout the weekend.

We also have our Street Food Area, where you can enjoy mid morning snacks and lunches, including Pizzas, Bratwurst, Falafels, Indian Vegan Street Food, Dorset Lamb burgers, Hot Potatoes, Seafood and desserts, all washed down with coffee, tea, soft drinks or gluwein.

There is also lots for children to enjoy. Inside our children’s entertainment area will include a Frozen themed room,

where kids can meet, and have their pictures taken with Elsa and Anya, who will be joined by Captain America and Spiderman . They can also enjoy our craft room where they can make Christmas decorations, make Sand Art pictures, or have their face painted. In association with our sponsorship partner, Meyers Estates, our children’s areas will be raising money for this years charity.

As well as parking on site we are also running a Shuttle bus every 15 minutes from Blandford Tourist Information Office starting at 9.30am and running all day.

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

£4 for Adults

£3.50 for Concessions

Under 16s FREE

We would like to thank our sponsors, Save Energy UK, The Blackmore Vale Ltd and Meyers Estate Agents for their support of this event.

News

Never forget

Words by George Jeans, photo by Steve Hawkins

THE Act of Remembrance Service was held in Mere at the War Memorial and after at St Michael’s Church.

Robert Boyle (pictured) was first to lay a wreath representing

the Royal British Legion. Jane Hurd took the service at St Michael’s Church.

Lieutenant General David Leakey, former Black Rod, did the reading during the service.

Castle View residents Betty Morris and Vera Brown had the honour of laying a wreath by the Poundbury home’s Remembrance tribute of poppies

Residents remember

REMEMBRANCE season has been especially poignant for care home residents who served in the armed forces or have childhood memories of wartime.

At Castle View in Poundbury, residents Betty Morris and Vera Brown had the honour of laying a wreath by the home’s Remembrance tribute of

handmade poppies.

Residents created the work in a series of arts and crafts sessions alongside children from Prince of Wales First School and Puddletown Pre-school and adults with moderate learning difficulties who attend the day care service stAbility.

Winery plan for Dorset village

A WINERY – including visitor centre and tasting space – could soon be developed near Yeovil.

Plans have been submitted to Dorset Council for the creation of a winery at Border Farm, in Closworth Road, Halstock.

The scheme outlines plans for the demolition of a number of derelict farm buildings on the site, and their replacement with a tasting barn visitor centre, as well as a storage and distribution building for the existing vineyard.

The Halstock Ridge Vineyard Farm Partnership said the scheme would work in two phases.

“To support our move into wine, we need to replace the dilapidated agricultural buildings, some containing asbestos, in two phases,” the application said.

“The first phase is the ‘Tasting Barn’ to sell our wine on-site, often called the ‘Cellar

Door Sales’.

“The second phase will involve constructing a winery for production in the current Dutch Barn area.”

Initially, the firm would pay for grapes produced on the site to be sent away for processing and bottling, with the second phase enabling this to take place on site, the plan went on.

“A greenhouse and kitchen garden will complement the

building,” the application added. “The small kitchen and scullery are to support the wine tasting with produce from our kitchen garden to enhance the wine tasting and increase profitability.

“We would also display and sell our other produce (fruit, vegetables, honey) alongside farmhouse products such as jams and chutneys as an additional income stream.”

Luxury

at Millbrook House

Located at the foot of Hambledon Hill, Millbrook House is an elegant, spacious Georgian residence set in two acres of beautiful gardens in the North Dorset village of Child Okeford.

A residential care home which allows our residents to enjoy peaceful surroundings, opulent décor, beautifully landscaped gardens, excellent cuisine and like-minded companionship. Millbrook House provides this, along with an extemporary care team in a homely and loving environment.

Glazing would allow visitors to take in a view of the vineyards and beyond, the plan said, while reducing the need for artificial heating as much as possible. Decking would also allow tasting to take place outdoors.

And it is hoped the design of the development would mean it is less intrusive than the current structures.

“Accessibility has been key to this design, and is one reason for the low level of the building,” the application said. “It has also been sited to improve the appearance of the farm from the road.

“Though we aim for a quality build, the design aesthetic is very much rural and agricultural in keeping with the farm and local area.”

For more details on the plan, log on to dorsetcouncil.gov.uk and search application reference P/FUL/2024/06219.

How the proposed winery visitor centre could look

August Motors, based in the heart of Salisbury

Based in the heart of Salisbury, August Motors is a family run business that has been in the motor trade since 1971. Part of the Balmer Lawn Group covering Wiltshire, Dorset and Hampshire, they are committed to building long-term relationships with their customers and providing a high-quality product and service.

As a main dealer for KGM, they offer comprehensive care for your vehicle, with expert servicing, MOT testing, and a wide selection of genuine parts. KGM, formerly known as SsangYong, recently celebrated 70 years in vehicle manufacturing, and in that time have built a reputation for engineering vehicles that combine performance, safety, and style. From electric cars and comfortable SUVs to the ultimate 4x4 pickup truck, KGM caters to every driver’s needs. Recognising the local agriculture, August Motors is proud to offer a range of KGM vehicles that meet the needs of the community, from reliable pickups to versatile utility vehicles. Proudly selling the Musso, which won 2024 Best Value Pick-Up in “4x4 Magazine”. We understand the importance of durability and efficiency in the field, and our team is here to help agricultural customers find the right vehicles to enhance productivity and mobility. The Rexton, along with the Musso has a huge towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes. August Motors offer a “Tools

and Trade Discount” to businesses and individuals that purchase these models. Both vehicles can be seen in our advert opposite..

August Motors also offer an electric KGM vehicle, The Torres EVX provides an environmentally friendly option that don’t compromise on performance. For August Motors, providing electric vehicles, is about being a part of a more sustainable future.

August Motors is a premier KGM dealer that prioritises quality and customer satisfaction. If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, look no further than August Motors and Balmer Lawn Group —where your automotive journey begins and ends with a smile. Come to visit and experience the difference for yourself!

The Torres EVX, electric KGM vehicle

Christmas at Kingston Lacy

THERE’S festive fun for all the family at Kingston Lacy this winter, with Christmasthemed activities designed to enthral and delight everyone.

The Kingston Lacy wish makers have been busy preparing for A Christmas Wish at Kingston Lacy. The house has been beautifully decorated, but in the garden a problem at the wish sorting office means the wish makers need help from the whole family to find all the escaped wishes before Christmas.

Open daily from November 30 to January 5 (fully closed December 25, everything except the house is open December 26). Entry is free (normal

Merry music

A CAROL service in aid of Julia’s House will be held at St Mary’s Church, Dorchester (DT1 2HL) on Tuesday, December 3, from 7pm. Doors open 6.15pm. Tickets cost £10 for adults, £5 for children and under-5s go free. www.juliashouse.org/DorchesterCarols

admission applies). Booking not required. Join the adventure to find Santa in his hidden storybook nook for a cosy Christmas tale, an early gift and a chance to take a photo with the man himself.

Storytelling with Santa runs throughout the day on November 30 and December 1, December 7 and 8, December 14 and 15, December 18-23. See website for times.

Price: £15 per child with an accompanying adult (normal admission applies). Booking essential on 0344 249 1895, or via the website.

Please check www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ visit/dorset/kingston-lacy for opening days and times during the holiday season.

Fovant’s feeling festive

WREATH-MAKING was the order of the day for the Fovant-based FILGroup’s November meeting.

Members and friends were shown how to make a simple reusable wreath from a wire frame, to which they could attach seasonally coloured flowers and berries or a mix of greenery and ribbon for a Christmas theme.

By the end of the meeting everyone had produced wreaths fit to grace the smartest front door.

FILGroup’s next meeting is the annual Christmas party on Friday, December 13. It is open to everyone, but spaces are limited.

The social evening will welcome in the festive season with prosecco and canapés on arrival followed by a two-course hot and cold buffet and well known Fovant singers providing after-dinner entertainment.

For more information email filgroup15@gmail.com

JEWELLERS

Totally elf-ish

SANTA’S number-one elf will be clearing the roof of the Portman Hall (DT11 0SF) ready for the arrival of Santa’s invisible magical sleigh at the Christmas fair this Saturday, November 23 from 12pm–4pm.

She’ll also be helping Santa hand out gifts to all the children, while their parents peruse the gorgeous goodies for sale from local crafters and makers.

While perusing the stalls, you can take part in the main raffle or try to win a delicious Christmas hamper. Work out which mischievous elf is hiding the treasure this year, or adopt a lonely and sad teddy bear looking for a new and loving home.

Rest and refresh, with coffee, cake, and light lunches at the cafe as you soak up the festive atmosphere. A free activity table will be provided for the excited children to enjoy as parents and grandparents catch up with friends while they await the results of the raffle.

The funds raised will be going towards the cost of resurfacing the hall’s much-used car park.

For more information, please call Kay Ridout on 01258 861345 or email kayrunyard@aol.com

Deadline - Wed 11th Dec - 4pm

Deadline - Mon 16th Dec - 10am

Deadline - Tues 17th Dec - 4pm

Deadline - Fri 20th Dec - 11am Classified ads may be accepted after these times, HOWEVER

A walk to remember

AN Army veteran, who became an Invictus Games Vice-Captain for Team UK, is inviting families from Dorset to ‘walk to remember’ in honour of veterans and their families next weekend.

Spencer Bull, who served for 29 years in the British Army, wants local people to show their support for veterans and loved ones by joining a 5km walk at Bovington Tank Museum.

Spencer saw action in Northern Ireland, Bosnia and Kuwait, but his military career came to an end after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.

He now advocates for Remembrance and veteran support.

“Remembrance is a powerful time of year, and I feel a responsibility lies with this generation to keep it going,” he said.

“We owe it to the families of those who were left behind and to those living with the traumas of war.

“Remembrance can be tough for veterans. Dealing with it is very emotional.

“The Walk to Remember will provide a time for us all to reflect on that and help to wrap our arms around others to support them.”

The Walk to Remember at The Tank Museum on Saturday, November 30, is a free event organised by military charity Help for Heroes.

Participants can enjoy tea and coffee at 10am and will hear from Spencer himself at 11am, before the start of the walk at 11.30am.

The 5km nature route invites families to share stories, connect and dedicate a personal

tribute to loved ones.

Each participant will be provided with a bib that can be personalised with the name of someone they wish to remember.

of Tanks Gaming Zone.

Following the walk, participants can enjoy complimentary refreshments, including cakes and pastries, and explore The Tank Museum at no extra charge.

The museum’s familyfriendly features range from soft play areas and interactive exhibits for children to historical displays and a World

A spokesperson added: “Walk to Remember promises a day of camaraderie, reflection and community support, creating an opportunity for local families to come together and show gratitude for those who have sacrificed so much.”

For more information about the event, visit www. helpforheroes.org.uk/givesupport/fundraising-events/ walk-to-remember

Gillingham Showroom 01747 833 789

Unit 21, Kingsmead Business Park, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 5JG

Opening Hours

Monday–Friday: 9am–5pm Saturdays by appointment only. Closed Sunday.

Spencer Bull in service and with his family

A new view on Stonehenge

AS an archaeological monument, Stonehenge is very well known to all, including those who sit in traffic queues past it.

A less well known aspect is the way in which from the 17th century onwards it attracted the attention of antiquaries and artists.

In his talk to the Sherborne Historical Society on Tuesday, December 3, (Digby Hall 8pm), Professor Sam Smiles of Exeter University will be looking at the antiquarian and artistic response to Stonehenge and other major prehistoric sites, including by such famous names as John Constable, William Blake, JMW Turner, John Piper, Henry Moore, Paul Nash and Eric Ravilious.

Non-members are welcome.

Light up your life!

STURMINSTER Newton Christmas lights will be switched on at 5pm on Saturday, November 30, in a day of festive fun. The excitement begins at 10am, with a Christmas market at The Exchange that runs through the day. Father Christmas will be joining the lantern parade at about 4.50pm.

Start your Christmas shopping early!

THE Fifehead Magdalen Christmas fair will be raising money for the village’s tiny 14th century church.

Held for the first time in the village hall (SP8 5RR) from 12pm, it promises plenty of gifts and home produce, a raffle, bottle hamper, wreaths, a bar and hot turkey rolls.

Donations of raffle prizes and gifts will be gratefully received at the Three Farthings before the fair. Call Dee on 820220 or Rosemary on 820225.

Repair and reuse

THE next Netherbury Repair Café will be held in Netherbury Village Hall on Sunday (November 24) from 10am to noon.

The Repair Café has had great success saving many items from landfill – from trousers needing new zips to radios that would not tune, from broken divan drawers to blunt knives.

Bicycles, wood items and metal goods can also be repaired.

A small cafe will offer home-made cakes, tea and coffee.

Carol concert

STANCHESTER Quire will be performing at Holnest Church near Sherborne (DT9 5PU) on Friday, December 6,at 7pm. Tickets are available from Graham – call 01963 210632. There’s limited seating, so booking is advisable. Donations welcome; mulled wine and mince pies. Proceeds will be divided equally between Stanchester Quire and the Friends of Holnest Church.

Find out more at www.stanchesterquire.org or email friendsofholnest@gmail.com

With all the uncertainty of the British summertime why not enhance your outdoor space with an Awning or Veranda with heating and lighting to stop the weather spoiling your plans.

Our range of Awnings are available manual or motorised operation up to 14meters long and Verandas custom built to any size, also suitable for use as a Carport.

For when the heatwave arrives, we can offer a large range of Blinds and Shutters to suit your shading requirements, whether you would like blackout for a better sleep or screen blinds to reduce the solar gain into your rooms. Our expert advice and extensive experience will ensure you get the right product, and provide the shading solution you need.

To see our full range of products visit the website www.lizziepriceshadingsolutions.co.uk and used our contact form or call us on 07879 992000 to discuss your requirements and book a no obligation home visit.

With Winter in full swing with dark, colder nights we concentrate on Shutters & Blinds to reduce energy costs. We offer a wide range of Blinds suited to both UV protection and thermal insulation. An example of one type of blind that achieves this is the Honeycomb style pleated blinds which trap the air in each pocket considerably decreasing the heat loss through your windows. Shutters are proven to reduce heat loss; they free up space around the window and are stylish and elegant whilst allowing you total control of the light and privacy. Both are proven to reduce heat loss and keep energy costs down. We do Blinds, Shutters, Awnings and so much more…. As all our products are UK manufactured we guarantee pre-Christmas installation on many of our products. Visit our website www.lizziepriceshadingsolutions.co.uk for the full range or give us a call 07879 992000 for a free no obligation home visit and quotation. Based in North Cadbury we cover Somerset, Dorset & Wiltshire.

Feline finance fans needed

FIGURE-savvy volunteers are needed by a cat charity to ensure they can continue helping local felines in distress.

Cats Protection in Yeovil needs treasurers to help them maintain their finances and ensure funds are spent effectively to help cats across the area.

Nicola Parry, area branch development manager for Cats Protection, says: “We are really struggling to find volunteers with financial knowledge and some time to spare to help our branches manage their funds.

“We’d love to hear from people with experience in preparing budgets, keeping financial records, paying invoices, monitoring donations and following financial procedures for specific areas such as Gift Aid. We don’t expect our treasurers to know everything straight away and

training will be given, so it’s a lovely opportunity to either brush-up your existing skills or learn about new areas of finance, and also give back to your local community. We help cats and their people, but we cannot do it without ensuring the funds we are so generously given are managed and used in the best ways possible.”

The charity relies solely on donations for its cat welfare work, making treasurers vital members of the team by ensuring there are sufficient funds for improving the lives of cats and kittens. Current treasurers across the charity’s network spend between two and four hours a week on branch finances.

To find out more about volunteering visit www.cats.org.uk/support-us/ volunteeropportunities or email nicola.parry@cats.org.uk

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Water, water everywhere… but is it clean?

VOLUNTEERS are needed to help monitor water quality along the River Nadder.

Richard Budden, Wiltshire councillor for Tisbury, the Donheads and Fonthill Gifford, is joining with the Nadder Valley Farmer Group to find volunteers to collect information at a number of key locations along the River Nadder.

The appeal is being made to enable the extension of a river monitoring project that has been under way for several months.

The project is being carried out by the Nadder Valley Farmers Group, with help and advice from the Wessex Rivers Trust, Rothamstead Research, the Wylye Valley Farmers Group, and with financial support from Cranborne Chase National Landscape.

cleaner river, with improved aquatic wildlife and significant benefit to the unique salmon for which the Nadder is a key breeding site.

It will do this by providing the farmers along the river’s banks a detailed picture of the state of the river and of any pollution, so they can address any issues at source.

Currently, weekly tests are being carried out at 14 locations along the River Nadder, the River Sem and their tributaries, from Semley and the Donheads down to Fovant. Test samples are examined in a nearby laboratory for phosphate and nitrate levels which can be used to pinpoint hotspots for action.

The volunteer programme is anticipated to run for at least five months. Each volunteer will be asked to carry out sampling at one or more of 11 locations around the Donheads, Semley and Swallowcliffe, every two to four weeks.

It’s

advisor and ecologist, who is managing the

Our loose Canon

The Church needs a safeguarding culture that stands up to predators by

Canon Eric Woods

IN 1942 the then Archbishop of Canterbury, Cosmo Gordon Lang (a pompous prelate if ever there was one) retired. It was wartime. Who should succeed him? The obvious candidate, many thought, was William Temple, Archbishop of York, and himself the son of a former Archbishop of Canterbury. But he was a Labour Party supporter, and many opposed him. Winston Churchill would have none of it, saying that Temple was “the only half-crown article in a sixpenny bazaar” – sometimes reported as “the only sixpenny article in a penny bazaar”!

In the event, Temple led the Church of England for only two and a half years, before his untimely death towards the end of 1944. But his memory lives on as a half-crown item indeed.

I have been fortunate to know some half-crown archbishops myself. One was Robert Runcie, awarded the Military Cross for two acts of great courage on two consecutive days in World War II. When he heard that I was in Yeovil Hospital following an operation, he took the trouble to phone me, giving the Ward Sister a fit of the vapours. Another was Rowan Williams, a scholar-saint who generously came to Sherborne Abbey for special occasions twice on my watch.

Of course, we can’t expect every archbishop or bishop to be a half-crown article. That would be absurd. Yet Jesus himself said,

“those to whom much is given, from them much will be required” (Luke 12.48). And, in my humble opinion, many leaders of the Church of England have fallen far short of the half-crown test. It particularly infuriates me that, in terms of safeguarding and child protection, they are happy to hand down strict rules and stringent requirements for ordinary clergy and all lay officeholders and volunteers, whilst entirely overlooking the failings of their friends. This will not do. What we need is a safeguarding culture in the Church that unites us all in being a loving, faithful and safe community. That means looking out for the vulnerable and standing up to predators, however charming they may seem. And that needs to begin at the very top.

So it is particularly painful for those of us in the pews (of whom I am now one) to discover that our leaders have been less than rigorous in following-up accusations against their chums. So it is right that Justin Welby has stood down as Archbishop of Canterbury. He has done so with both honour and dignity, saying “It is very clear that I must take personal and institutional responsibility for the long and retraumatising period between 2013 and 2024” – 2013 being the date of his appointment.

Perhaps the problem has been that our leaders have been seduced by the “management model” of their role, seeing themselves as executives rather than as pastors and men and women of deep prayer and spirituality. Archbishop Welby has many gifts and skills, but in not doing enough to care for the victims of abuse, and rigorously pursuing the perpetrators, much trust in the Church has been lost.

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Three Week to go: Dazzling new Light Artworks set to Sparkle at Stourhead This Christmas

With just over three weeks to go, excitement is building as Christmas at Stourhead returns from 29th November to 1st January – promising to be bigger, brighter, and more magical than ever before.

This year’s illuminated after-dark trail, created by Culture Creative and produced in partnership with Sony Music and the National Trust, will feature an array of dazzling new light installations that are guaranteed to enchant visitors of all ages.

This year’s trail is set to sparkle with new artistic innovations from internationally renowned creators, ensuring a festive experience like no other.

Among the new must-see features are:

Sea of Light by ITHACA Studio: An awe-inspiring large-scale display, where thousands of individually controlled LED light balls animate in harmony with a bespoke soundtrack, creating a mesmerizing and immersive experience.

Light a Wish by OGE Design Group: Capturing the whimsy of dandelion seeds floating through the air, this piece symbolises wishes taking flight, adding a touch of wonder to the trail.

This playful and emotion-evoking installation by artists Merav Eitan and Gaston Zahr has captivated audiences worldwide.

Snowflake Show by Scot Gianelli: Huge snowflakes, up to five metres tall, will light up in time with festive music, casting a magical glow across the grounds.

Designed by Scot Gianelli, a Los Angeles-based lighting designer known for his work across theatre, fine art, and architecture, this display is sure to wow visitors.

These dazzling new artworks will join Stourhead’s already beloved illuminated trail, featuring a spectacular array of twinkling lights, sparkling tunnels, and vibrant woodland and lakeside displays.

The historic landscape will be filled with the scents and sounds of Christmas, offering visitors the chance to step into a winter wonderland like no other

Whether you’re exploring with family, friends, or loved ones, this festive trail

promises to create new memories against the breathtaking backdrop of one of the UK’s most iconic gardens.

There’s even a chance to catch a magical glimpse of Father Christmas as you stroll through the sparkling grounds.

With over a million twinkling lights transforming Stourhead’s stunning grounds, this is an unmissable event for your festive calendar.

For more information and to book tickets online please visit www.christmasatstourhead.co.uk

Stourhead Sea of Light by ITHACA Studio

Time to start feeling festive!

As the days grow shorter and the air crisper, it’s the perfect time to embrace the festive spirit. Whether you’re a Christmas enthusiast or need a nudge to get into the mood, there are plenty of ways to spark joy this season.

Start by decorating your home. Twinkling lights, a wreath on the door, or even a cozy throw in festive colours can instantly elevate the atmosphere. If you love crafts, try making your own decorations or ornaments—it’s a fun activity that adds a personal touch.

Next, dive into festive flavours. Bake cookies, sip on hot chocolate, or experiment with holiday-themed recipes. The aromas of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger have a magical way of filling your home with warmth and nostalgia.

Music and movies are another easy way to set the tone. Create a playlist of your favourite Christmas songs or schedule a movie night featuring classic festive films. These simple pleasures can make your evenings feel extra special.

Engaging in community activities is also a wonderful way to feel festive. Check out local markets, light switch on ceremonies, or charity events. Not only do these bring joy, but they also connect you with others who share the holiday cheer.

Finally, take a moment for gratitude. Write cards to loved ones or reflect on the year’s highlights. The season is about togetherness and joy, so find what makes you happiest and embrace it wholeheartedly.

Let the festivities begin!

Wincanton Christmas Fair -

Afantastic and unique Christmas shopping experience with 50 independent stalls selling unique and quality products. Outdoor stalls too!

Get all your Christmas shopping done in one place, under one roof, warm and dry. There’s also a charity stall with Christmas cards and a raffle to win a luxury hamper.

Free parking and tarmac avenues allow easy access to the marquee. Disabled parking almost to the door.

Dorset Fine Dining provide the all day cafe with teas, coffees, snacks and delicious light lunches in the adjacent

enjoy your time.

Time to celebrate!

Join us for your team and family celebrations as we ring in the season. Tempting flavours and the warmest hospitality. 2 courses £39 // 3 courses £45

Festive Set Menu served Wednesday – Friday at lunch and Wednesday – Thursday at dinner, from 27th November.

Last few tables remaining for Christmas Day - give us a call today.

Time for music

In a smooth start to the holidays, our final jazz night of the year falls on Thursday 19th December. Make sure you join us for a memorable evening!

Time for tea

Take a break from shopping for a delicously bite-sized taste of the festivities.

Our stunning Festive Afternoon Tea is served between 2pm and 4pm on Saturdays and Sundays from 30th November to 22nd December.

£40pp // Book online or give us a call

Gillingham Handmade are really excited about their upcoming event of ‘Magic of Christmas’

Held at Riversmeet, this is the tenth anniversary of the event. Started eleven years ago, friends Judy Watts and Gaynor Lunn have brought their combined experiences in craft fairs together, and now, as Gillingham Handmade, pride themselves in curative beautiful eclective stalls of local craft people.

The event has grown over the years and now has over sixty stalls, twelve of which are designated ‘New Starters’ with the aim of encouraging fresh new talent. This family event will also welcome some local choirs - and lets not forget Father Christmas’

CHRISTMAS FAIR HOOPER HALL, Lydlinch DT10-2JA. Saturday 23rd November, 10am-12:30pm. Local stalls/ crafts+food. Entry £3 to include coffee and mince pie.

ART AND CRAFT FAIR

Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 November 10am to 4.30pm Stourpaine Village Hall DT11 8TJ

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 30th

The Triangle Trust are holding their Christmas bazaar. at Stoke Sub Hamdon Memorial Hall. TA14 6PZ lots of stalls, Tombolas, crafts, gifts, cards . refreshments, teas and cakes. Grand |Raffle. and much more. for more information please contact Jennie Harris. 01935 881718.

SATURDAY 23RD NOVEMBER,

10am-12pm in Cheap Street

Church Hall, Sherborne. Baking butties, cakes, mince pies and hot drinks in aid of Shelterbox.

HORSINGTON CHURCH

MIRANDA KEYS CHRISTMAS CONCERT, light opera and musical songs with carol singalongs. 29th November at 8pm. Tickets £8. 01963-371478.

2nd TEMPLECOMBE SCOUT GROUP CHRISTMAS BINGO. Saturday 7th December. Templecombe Village Hall. Eyes down 7.30pm. Christmas meal £8. To pre book call 01963 370583.

TABLE-TOP CHARITY SALE

Clothes - Books - Toys - Brica-brac Sunday 8th December Corfe Mullen Guide Hut BH21 3HU 10am-12:30pm 50p entry

CRAFT MARKET

Pen Selwood Village Hall BA9 8LS What three words: shocking.chairing.unhappy Saturday 23rd November 10.00am – 4.00pm Beautiful handmade items for sale in time for Christmas Refreshments available

CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL

Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th

December 10.00 to 4.00 St Mary’s Church, Sturminster Marshall. Would you like to put up a tree to raise money for your favorite Charity? Contact liz.york@btinternet.com or 01258 857528.

THE NORTH DORSET

TRAILWAY AGM meeting, November 26th, 7pm. Stourpaine Village Hall, DT11 8TJ All welcome. Guest speaker and Refreshments.

BINGO 29th NOVEMBER AT THE ROYAL BRITISH

LEGION Hall, Coppice Street, Shaftesbury. Doors open 6:45pm. Eyes down: 7:30pm. Light refreshments. Raffle. Proceeds to the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.

CHRISTMAS BINGO at the Memorial Hall Wincanton on 30th November for the Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire Air Ambulance. Eyes down 7:30pm. Charity no. 1078685.

CHARITY TABLE TOP SALE IN AID OF Crohn’s and Colitis UK Sunday 24th November 9.30-11.30am Bric a brac, collectables, craft, vintage, clothes, toys..Come along to grab a bargain at Yetminster Jubilee Hall Enquiries: Julia 0776981

CHRISTMAS FAIR AT 3 COUNTIES WOODTURNERS

On 1st December 2024. 10am3pm. Lots of stalls including wood turning, jewellery, cards, fun gift ideas, exclusive lamps, stunning paintings & pottery, sweets & home made preserves. Handmade fabric and wool items . Refreshments available. Lynlinch Village Hall, DT10 3JA. Free entry.

Sherborne Digby Hall Monthly Market Saturday 7th Dec 10-3 Antiques, Arts, Crafts & More

GARDEN OF DELIGHTS

Springhead Fontmell Magna SP7 0NU Presents to buy hand made by Artists FRI 6 to SUN 8 DEC - 10 am-4pm 01258 456285 free entry

BINGO!

11

40

5

Stalbridge Hall Thursday 28th November Doors open 6.30pm Eyes down 7.30pm In aid of hall funds

64 22

90

THE SWANS TRUST AGM will be held at the Shaftesbury Arts Centre at 6.15pm on the 4th December. All members are welcome to attend

CHRISTMAS BINGO. Templecombe Sports and Social Club. December 2nd. 7:30pm.

LYN’S BINGO at Marnhull Royal British Legion on Monday November 25th Eyes down 7pm

Indoor Car Boot Sale Saturday 23rd November 10am to 12 noon. Refreshments available.

GILLINGHAM SP8 4HB ~Allsellingspacenowfull~

MARKET

Festive Gifts, Jewellery, Art, Candles, Crafts, Christmas Trees, Refreshments and much more

Letters

Petty crime issues as old as time

I SYMPATHISE, as we probably all do, with Mike Keating’s concerns about behaviour – Letters, New Blackmore Vale, November 8.

Unfortunately, there has never been the golden age we tend to recall.

If it existed, why did no-one notice it at the time?

And why is it always an earlier generation?

I began teaching in 1973. Behaviour was much worse than anything I encountered later in my career when I was responsible for discipline and student welfare.

My first promotion was for being prepared to break up fights!

At school in South Wales, bullying was commonplace and ignored, as were daily confrontations.

When I taught criminal law to adults, in a section on perceptions of crime, I read newspaper quotes about parents and police having no control, youths having no respect and courts being soft.

Invariably when we discussed dates, the quotes were thought to be recent.

In fact, they came from the 1920s, 30s, 40s, 50s and in one case ancient Sumeria.

I recommend Hooligan, a book which traces golden age beliefs as far back as evidence exists.

When the stocks were used crime was far more prevalent that it is now, in many areas.

Crime rates during the war in London, when police had the options Mike mentions, rose by almost 60%, though it is thought to be a vast underestimate.

Unfortunately, the press tends to headline crimes and we lose perspective.

Instead of ‘man attacked in – for example – Toy Town’ we could substitute ‘100,000 people not attacked in Toy Town’. Both equally true!

Sadly, bad behaviour, crime and anti-social attitudes have

always existed and society has always struggled to control the tiny minority who cause them.

Kevin Banks Blandford

Ear marked for everyone to see

ON a recent adventure around Glasgow on an open top bus listening to the commentary on some of its history I was both amused and horrified as we passed a small ‘lock up’ in one of the central streets.

According to the commentary, back in the 1800s anyone caught thieving or other similar anti-social behaviour was promptly marched to this ‘lock up’ and made to stand on a stool against a wooden panel.

The offender’s ear was then nailed to the panel and they were left for the night.

In the morning, with the door now opened, the stool was kicked away! Ooh, ouch!

But he was now clearly ‘ear marked’ for everyone to see!!

Theresa Weller Bridport

Nature and resilience

AUTUMN is a time of the year when the bounty of hedgerows and trees is particularly noticeable, with nuts, berries and seeds providing a vital food source to keep wildlife healthy.

But not all autumns are equally plentiful.

If you have been walking around the Dorset countryside, you might have noticed that there is not an abundance of acorns or hazelnuts; there are very few sloes; species such as dogwood have done poorly.

It is possible that this year’s poor spring has resulted in a paucity of both fruits and nuts across a range of species –autumn 2024 does not appear to be the bounty that we all look forward to, and that many

animals rely on.

Local community group Trees for Wimborne has now devised and implemented three planting schemes.

In each one, we have tried to plant as diverse a range of native tree and shrub species as possible, while adhering to the principles of ‘right tree, right place’.

This is to create a varied and interesting landscape which brings joy in all seasons, and to provide a range of food plants and habitats to attract and provide for as many insects, birds and mammals as possible.

It is also to provide resilience – a word frequently heard in relation to nature over the last decade.

During this time, land managers and conservationists have grappled with how to make habitat improvements for wildlife in an increasingly unstable climate, so the aim of many of these projects is to cope with the ever-changing ‘new normal’.

Trees for Wimborne hopes that by planting a wide range of species it will contribute, in some small way, to a resilient landscape.

If some of the species do not produce pollen, nectar, fruit or nuts one year, then others will; if some do not do well in the vagaries of wetter, warmer, windier or drier climates, then others will.

The plants we have put in are still too young to be subject to the influence of weather events on pollination, but it is hoped soon they will begin to prove their worth and contribute to next year’s autumn bounty.

William – The Bad, nearly 100 years ago, that there were three sorts of politicians:

1 – The Conservatives who want to make things better by keepin’ ‘em jus’ like what they are now

2 – The Lib’rals who want to make things better by alterin’ them jus’ a bit, but not so’s anyone’d notice, and 3 – The Socialists, who want to make things better by takin’ everyone’s money off ‘em.

After nearly 100 years, little seems to have changed on the political front!

Nick Jones Gillingham

Too many suffer a grim death

ON November 29, Kim Leadbeater MP’s Assisted Dying Bill for Terminally Ill Adults will be voted on in Westminster.

Many MPs have concerns over changing the law to permit assisted dying.

They should be reassured from evidence from many other countries – palliative care improves when assisted dying becomes legal.

Most disabled people and those with faith support assisted dying.

Every constituency in the country wants assisted dying to be made legal.

The Bill has robust safeguards and similar safeguards work well around the world.

Three former Directors of Public Prosecutions have called the current law ‘a real mess’.

Niki Harper Trees

for Wimborne

Bad lad and the political parties

THE writer, Richmal Crompton, who produced many books based on a fictitious lad called ‘William’, wrote in her book

The Office of Health Economics estimates that even with best possible palliative care, 16,000 people die each year in England and Wales with unmet pain needs.

16,000 people dying in pain, in 2024?

Real harm is done by banning safe, legal assisted dying.

I urge anyone who has seen someone they love begging for help to die, as I have, to write to their MP and support more compassionate end of life choice.

Too many people are suffering grim deaths and change cannot come too soon.

Claire Macdonald Director

My Death My Decision

Useful perspective on slavery issue

IT was very useful to have Canon Woods’ historical perspective on the issue of slavery – New Blackmore Vale, Our Loose Canon, November 8. No-one disputes that slavery was an appalling practice that tainted all those who engaged in it.

However, as Canon Woods points out, it is a phenomenon that goes back to the dawn of history, practised in most parts of the world for many centuries, so it was very far from being peculiar to the British Empire, which, of course, took the international lead in its abolition.

Indeed, as he says, vast numbers of English, Welsh and Irish were abducted by Barbary pirates and sold as slaves in Muslim countries.

So, the current liberal/ left-wing fashion for selfflagellation over the fact that Britain also once participated in this horrendous activity is historically absurd, and merely plays into the malign tendency to try and make us ashamed of our country.

Roger White Sherborne

Let’s look at good our ancestors did

CANON Woods’ article on slavery was brilliant – the Archbishop of Canterbury and the BBC should see it.

He speaks such common sense.

None will admit that many African countries were prepared to sell members of enemy tribes to slave traders from Britain and elsewhere.

William Wilberforce and Thomas Clarkson of the UK were prominent abolitionists.

Can we look forward instead of always looking back, please?

We cannot be responsible for our ancestors.

Let us look back on the good our ancestors did for a change.

Anne Senneck Mere

Church’s £100m reparations fund

WHAT an excellent article by Canon Eric Woods – Our Loose Canon, New Blackmore Vale, November 8 – on the subject of slavery reparations.

By looking at the wider issues around slavery – both in where the West African trade started and going back way earlier to other nations and states – it marked a refreshing change from the clamouring of activists seeking free money.

It is a shame that the Canon’s understanding of this complex subject does not seem to be shared by his seniors in the Church, given their announcement earlier this year of a £100 million reparations fund.

Sadly, as Canon Woods says, slavery is still a facet of today’s world.

Perhaps the most notable is child slave labour in the cobalt mines of the Democratic Republic of Congo, feeding the market for batteries for everything from smartphones to vehicles.

It seems the world turns a blind eye to the plight of the toiling children in the race to phase out fossil fuels. Maybe a topic for another column!

Ken Leedham North Barrow

Wilberforce was pivotal

ONE additional thought to follow the ‘Loose Canon’s’ article on slavery and reparations – New Blackmore Vale, November 8.

I think I am correct in saying that the only nation that has actively and energetically abolished slavery is Britain, starting in 1807 and then progressively thereafter.

The United States finally caught up in 1863. It took a Civil War between the various states to achieve this.

Slavery has been part of the human condition since the beginning of time.

No other nation was so active in doing away with slavery, even to the extent of Britain only agreeing a treaty with the Ottoman Empire on condition that it too abolished slavery.

Over time other states have abolished slavery but without Wilberforce persuading the British Parliament to abolish slavery it would probably still be with us.

Ross Coad Zeals

Special Santa events in town

WIMBORNE Community Garden is organising two fundraising events this year.

Firstly, a Forgetful Santa, which entails a hunt around the town looking in shop windows for items that Santa forgot when he was out shopping.

Entry forms cost £1 and are available from Optique 2000, the Museum of East Dorset and the library.

Two prizewinners, picked at random, will receive a book token each and these will be presented by Santa himself at the prizewinners’ homes on December 21.

Secondly, be prepared to wrap up warm and visit Santa in his woodland grotto and see

the lighted walkway at the Community Garden opposite Beaucroft College in School Lane, Wimborne.

Parents can enjoy a hot drink and mince pie while Santa greets the children, tells them a story and hands them a gift.

Dates are Friday, December 6, 13 and 20, and Wednesday, December 18. Times are 3.45pm, 4.30pm and 5.15pm. For tickets, at £10 per child, phone 07851 402207 evenings. Anthony Oliver Wimborne

A303: Litany of failure

THE base facts speak volumes: 3.5 miles upgrade. There was already an existing piece of dual from the Somerton end. Multi-million and well over spent.

National Highways has always existed in a parallel universe: ‘’Will significantly reduce travel time in the region…a smoother journey.’’

Sadly, one has only to view projects overseas of greater distance being completed more quickly and to a higher standard.

The self-delusion shines bright, the reality is the queues will still be seen at Mere and will be pushed west.

The Ilminster bypass an aberration. The town centre of Ilminster a useful ‘rat run’.

The significant delays and consequent inconvenience, neither explained nor apologised for. Locals have made their own arrangements and now permanently clog the lanes.

I suppose living in the land of make believe the dialogue inevitably will be in vacuous platitude.

The reality is it is still not finished. The cacophony of failure continues.

James Bishop Wincanton

16 Pursued (7)

(5)

The Wessex Event Company presents... Bryanston Christmas Fair

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

Killer Sudoku Pro

Across

8 Do well at forty, we hear (5)

9 Shrill sound made by the French following card game (7)

10 Fine advocate of reform (7)

11 Asian country favoured with return of support (5)

12 Firm politician with singular group of conservationists in part (9)

Down

1 Police with resources largely regarding some measures (6)

2 A college with eccentric dame in charge, university teacher (8)

3 By the sound of it, impede a group of countries (4)

4 Figure giving film certificate (6)

14 Fellow taken with commercial craze (3)

KILLER Sudoku Pro

15 Cut principal set of lights (3)

5 Small cars given tax in government department (8)

16 Show of disapproval? It might be seen in a tramp (5,4)

19 School transport (5)

Place numbers 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and bold-lined 3x3 box.

6 Attractive male in horse-breeding establishment (4)

7 Democrat named wrongly in claim (6)

13 Plain feature in heraldry? (8)

21 Biology, say, namely niece misunderstood (7)

23 Second no good relative gets dog (7)

24 Heading? Some respect it less (5)

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.

dog (7)

Heading? Some respect it less (5)

14 Former Labour leader with comment? It’s fairly unimportant (8)

15 Fall in Yosemite? (6)

17 Rioting in Ulster produces consequence

1 Police with resources largely regarding some measures (6)

18 Prison guard to remain with a little hesitation (6)

2 A college with eccentric dame in charge, university teacher (8)

20 Spots expert touring North (4)

22 I love tense atmosphere initially a small bit

3 By the sound of it, impede a group of countries (4)

4 Figure giving film certificate (6)

5 Small cars given tax in government department (8)

6 Attractive male in horse-breeding establishment (4)

7 Democrat named wrongly in claim (6)

13 Plain feature in heraldry? (8)

14 Former Labour leader with comment? It’s fairly unimportant (8)

15 Fall in Yosemite? (6)

17 Rioting in Ulster produces consequence (6)

18 Prison guard to remain with a little hesitation (6)

20 Spots expert touring North (4) 22 I love tense atmosphere initially a small bit (4)

Arts & Entertainment

Spiritual comedy with Coward

BANISH the winter blues this weekend with Dorchester Drama’s effervescent adaptation of Blithe Spirit, widely regarded as one of Noel Coward’s most sparkling comedies.

When Charles Condomine and his second wife Ruth throw a dinner party for their friends the Bradmans, they invite eccentric medium Madame Arcati to join them and officiate at a seance.

But when she accidentally summons the meddlesome spirit of Condomine’s first wife Elvira, Charles’ well-ordered life is thrown into disarray – especially as only he can see his ghostly former spouse. Matters turn from ghostly to ghastly when Elvira’s meddling takes a dark turn and Charles and Madame Arcati suddenly find themselves trying to send not one, but two spirits back

from whence they came.

The play is directed by Dee Thorne and the cast includes Peter Gordon and Linda Bolton as Charles and Ruth Condomine, Colin Davidson and Tilda Sansom as their friends the Bradmans, Barbara Proctor as Madame Arcati, Mel Austin as Elvira and Ivana Jelinic as Edith, the Condomine’s maid and the unwitting key to the hauntings.

This is the fifth time Dee has directed with Dorchester Drama and she says she is pleased they are putting on a well-known play this autumn, especially as Arsenic and Old Lace, which the group staged in November 2024, was a sell-out success.

She added: “I am loving directing this play and seeing what the cast are bringing to their characters, and how they are developing their characters.

“I think the audiences will love it, and be transported to the era of the 1940s, and anyone who enjoys Noel Coward’s work will have a wonderful time.”

Blithe Spirit is at Dorchester

Arts on Friday and Saturday, November 22 and 23, with performances at 7.30pm and a 2pm matinee on the Saturday. Tickets are £12 from dorchesterarts.org.uk and 01305 266926.

Dorchester Drama is staging Blithe Spirit

Three takes on sounds of Brazil

THE sounds of Brazil are coming to Dorset when Alvorada present three concerts next week.

The London-based quintet perform choro, a rich and uplifting style of instrumental music from Rio de Janeiro.

The group’s musicians have diverse backgrounds in jazz, classical and Brazilian music, featuring Rachel Hayter on flutes, Andrew Woolf on clarinets/sax, Jeremy Shaverin on cavaquinho, Luiz Morais on seven-string guitar and Andres Ticino on percussion.

Alvorada’s debut album, First Light, was released in 2019 to critical acclaim, leading to BBC Radio 3 and JazzFM appearances and tours to venues

and festivals across the UK and beyond, including the London Jazz Festival and the Paris International Choro Festival.

Their latest album, Faz Tempo, released last month, features Brazilian rhythms such as choro, xote, samba, bossa nova and baiao, with jazz and improvisation peppering their sound.

Alvorada are touring with Dorset rural arts charity Artsreach and are at Wootton Fitzpaine Village Hall on Thursday, November 28; The Mowlem, Swanage, on Friday, November 29; and Nether Compton Village Hall, on Saturday, November 30.

They will also lead a Brazilian Rhythms and Songs

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The Snowman treat for children

CHILDREN will be helping to provide the sound effects for a screening of the magical animation The Snowman at Child Okeford Village Hall. They will be invited to join The Enchanted Cinema’s ‘pop-up orchestra’ and use instruments and their voices to help bring to life images seen in the film, including an owl, a toothbrush, the sea, a motorbike and more.

A workshop will be followed by a screening of The Snowman.

The event at the village hall on Saturday, November 30, is ideal for children aged fourplus.

Tickets and more information are available from 01258 861621 or online at www. artsreach.co.uk

Workshop in Swanage between 10.30am-noon on Saturday, November 30.

Participants will learn some catchy Brazilian songs, with accompanying rhythms that can be played using body percussion!

Tickets and further information about the tour and workshop are available online at www.artsreach.co.uk

Alvorada are playing the village halls at Nether Compton and Wootton Fitzpaine, and The Mowlem theatre in Swanage

PHOTO: Enchanted Cinema

Arts & Entertainment

Bluegrass, beers and bad ideas!

THE Swamp Stomp String Band are bringing their Livestock on Road tour to Dorchester.

The band – Tractor, Somerset Bill and The Good Doctor – are a raucous and energetic travelling band renowned for

Barrister’s

life flips upside down

ACTRESS Jodie Comer gives a solo tour de force performance in Prima Facie, the next National Theatre Live screening at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.

Comer – pictured – brings the cocky barrister Tessa to life.

Tessa specialises in defending men accused of sexual assault and is initially

shown revelling in her most recent victory by gleefully and vigorously dancing around and on top of the tables on stage.

Tessa talks about her childhood in Liverpool, revealing the determination she needed to graduate through Law School and reach the top of her field.

But her world flips upside

Panto tribute to book illustrator

MERE Amateur Dramatic Society’s (MADS) autumn production, to be staged on the last weekend of November, is a popular pantomime and the society’s tribute to member Eric Kincaid, who died last year at the age of 92.

Eric was internationally known as one of this country’s finest children’s book

playing rambunctious, uptempo, old-time music infused with Bluegrass, Country, Americana and anything else you might find pouring out of a beer – or cider – soaked roadside dive bar!

The Good Doctor said: “We’re so excited to be bringing our Livestock on Road Tour to Dorchester!

“We’re everything you might expect from a Country band, from twangy banjos and chugging guitars to a honkytonk piano, a thudding double bass and driving drums.

“But these propel everything from cider swigging drinking songs, to riotous ballads, Irish polkas and all the way to sea shanties. Play your cards right and you might even get invited for a waltz!”

The Swamp Stomp String Band are truly independent artists – self-recording,

promoting and releasing all their own, original music.

With boisterous and bawdy, rough and rowdy, theatrically extravagant performances, they have enjoyed acclaimed success at countless festivals and shows across the country, including most recently, a headline slot on the Caffe Nero stage at Black Deer Festival of Americana 2024 and a sell-out show at Fiddler’s Elbow in Camden, back in early September.

The Swamp Stomp String Band are playing at the Corn Exchange on Friday, November 29, at 7.30pm – tickets start from just £11 each and are available online at https://linktr. ee/theswampstompstringband, with some exclusive ticket and merchandise bundle offers also available including the limited edition ‘Swamp Stomper’ superbly spicy hot sauce!

down after she is assaulted by a colleague and realises how daunting her case is by cross-examining herself.

The screening is on

dramatics with MADS.

Eric conceived the panto Alice in Blunderland and wrote it with his friend, Chris Wood, for MADS.

Saturday, November 30, at 7pm.

Tickets are available online at www.shaftesburyartscentre. co.uk.

White Rabbit and the Queen of Hearts.

illustrators.

He illustrated more than 200 titles which sold worldwide and included classics like Peter Pan, Wind in the Willows, The Jungle Book, poetry anthologies and Alice in Wonderland

He moved to Dorset when he retired in 1990 but continued to paint and exhibit his work as well as enjoying amateur

It was first performed to much acclaim in 2007 with a cast of more than 20, great costumes, music and a wonderful Cheshire Cat.

It is hoped the encore will be a fitting tribute.

The poster for this year’s pantomime features Eric’s detailed artwork depicting many of Lewis Carroll’s well known characters, including Alice, the

MADS performance of Alice in Blunderland is at Mere Lecture Hall from Thursday to Saturday, November 28-30, at 7.30pm with a matinee on Saturday, November 30, at 2.30pm.

Tickets priced £10 adults and £3 children are available in person from Mere Library, Sprout & Flower and Angel Tea Rooms; by phone on 01747 861257 and 07539 3299798; and by email at pennyallen@ hotmail.co.uk

The Swamp Stomp String Band are playing Dorchester

I stand with protesting farmers

AHEAD of their first Budget the Chancellor and Prime Minister both made much of the need for ‘growth’ – the Budget they delivered, however, seems aimed to do the opposite. The rise in National Insurance Contributions creates additional costs for employers and will undoubtably stop them from hiring. The public sector will be one of the hardest hit, with unfunded increases to councils for outsourced services, along with adult social care, and GPs. However, one of the worst affected by the Budget will be West Dorset’s farmers. The changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR) are a significant blow to our small farmers. 80% of Britian’s approximately 192,000 farms are smaller than 250 acres. The average farm in the south west is 82 acres, and 49% of our farms are worth at least £1.5 million. That might

LibDem MP for West Dorset

Edward Morello

sound like a lot of money, but small farms are already struggling to survive. If they are forced to sell land to pay death taxes, then they will become unviable as businesses. Liberal Democrat estimates suggest as many as 300 farms in West

Dorset may be affected. Farming is hard at the best of times. With the wind down of the Basic Payments Scheme, the Environmental Land Management Scheme still experiencing teething problems, the farming budget frozen for another year – a real money decrease when inflation is taken into account – and on the back of a harvest that some estimates have as 25% down due to bad weather, this is another blow to the sector.

When the sector is already struggling to attract the next generation of farmers, the prospect of not being able to pass on the family farm will only put more young farmers off dedicating their lives to this vital part of the rural economy. The impact may be even more significant for tenant farmers, with the possibility that landowners will prefer to sell

It’s a busy life in Opposition

“WILL people come?” is often a question on the minds of organisers of community events. The Royal British Legion and others, as far as North Dorset is concerned, need never worry about local people turning out to commemorate Remembrance Sunday. Across our area war memorials were adorned with wreaths. I laid wreaths in Shaftesbury and Blandford and had others laid on my behalf in Sturminster Newton, Verwood and Gillingham. I know I am not alone in saying what a heartwarming joy it is to see school and young people there representing their organisations. It gives us all hope for the future.

I am a glass half full sort of person. I always look for the silver lining. After a heavy defeat for my Party in July, the dust is settling and politics continues. Whether in Opposition or Government the job of the constituency MP

Conservative MP for North Dorset

Simon Hoare

remains constant – to represent and help one’s constituents. Being in Opposition, not having to deliver the Government’s business, means that an even greater focus can be placed on this aspect. So, my advice surgeries are full as I continue to help local people with all sorts of problems. People I talk to often say they are fascinated

off rented land before the land they actually farm themselves.

And while the headlines have been grabbed by the changes to APR, hidden within the Budget are other announcements that will hurt the agricultural sector, not least a planned carbon border tax on imported fertilisers. This will only serve to drive up domestic food production costs and make locally produced food more expensive versus cheap imported alternatives.

I have tabled an Early Day Motion against these changes and this week will be in the Chamber to demand the Government rethink its decision.

On Tuesday (November 19) West Dorset farmers, along with farmers across the UK, will descend on Parliament to make their anger known. I will be standing with them.

– I hope they are not saying so just to be polite – to hear what I am doing. So, here is a crosssection.

I initiated a debate in the Commons to ensure future postal voting at elections meets expected demand. I spoke in the Rural Affairs debate highlighting the disaster that is Inheritance Tax on family farms but also making the case for the rurality of an area to be considered when calculating funding for services. I met the excellent Highways Team, battling weather and a particularly stubborn layer of clay to strengthen the bridge near Marnhull. I visited Poole Hospital to see the delivery of changes which means that emergency and elective surgeries can both take place without the former disrupting the latter. I met, in advance of a wider meeting with local parish councils, Dorset Community Action to talk about the delivery of rural housing. I enjoyed

talking to the local branch of the CPRE to hear its concerns about changes to planning policy. It was fantastic to see a new business meeting venue emerge from the disused estate workshop in Hinton St Mary and to meet many small businesses which will benefit from having a place to conduct work meetings. Back in Parliament I chaired a meeting on behalf of Amnesty International for colleagues to hear the issues and concerns of leading international and humanitarian lawyers relating to the Middle East. I attended a breakfast briefing held by Dairy UK to talk about the dairy situation and to meet the new owners of the Blackmore Vale Dairy – who have welcome plans to invest and expand. I am also working, with cross-Party colleagues, on the plans to support the upcoming Climate & Nature Bill. So, all in all –quite busy. What an honour it is to serve you.

Politics

Time to back our farmers

ON the weekend of November 9 Reform UK held its largest ever south west conference in Exeter. The scale, ambition and professionalism of the Party is growing at a truly staggering pace.

Front and centre of the event were farmers – as Nigel Farage rightly said, they are the backbone of our country.

Ask any farmer and they will tell you that it's always been a tough business – many do it, in large part, for the love of it – but something has been going very wrong under the prior Tory and recent Labour administrations.

Farms are increasingly becoming less and less profitable, they are being forced to pursue ever more scale and intensification and to diversify away from producing food and into so-called Green Energy.

Contra to popular belief in

Reform UK Dorset county organiser

Thomas

Gargrave

Westminster, you cannot eat solar panels or wind turbines, and the blanketing of our countryside with them only adds to food insecurity and potential food price inflation, not to mention the appalling visual blight on our exquisite countryside. We ask our farmers in Britain to jump through more

bureaucratic hoops than anywhere in the world to produce their goods, while at the same time making them compete with cheap, lowwelfare imports on price. It is not fair, and we need to change things in favour of our domestic farmers and food producers.

I believe it is time to have a radical rethink about farming, and food and the focus of that should be on the effects that huge supermarkets have on pricing, and on the potentially negative health effects of the highly processed products those supermarkets are selling.

I believe it is time to look at options, at scale, potentially government- supported, for farmers, especially those who produce their products to high levels of environmental and welfare standards, to circumnavigate the big supermarkets and have direct

access to consumers.

This will allow farmers to increase their margins, it will encourage, and make viable, smaller family farms and less intensive/organic/restorative farming, and I believe also give us a huge opportunity to sell unprocessed goods, directly to consumers. Between the field and the plate, something is going very wrong with our food production. It is not working for farmers, and it is certainly not working for the health of our people. The only winners seem to be the likes of Tesco, with profits of £2.7 billion last financial year, and its shareholders, the likes of Blackrock at 8.1%.

Let's start backing our British farmers and make sure we do not put the interests and profits of huge corporations above that of the health of our people, our countryside and our farming communities.

CAN Bill and my ‘green’ journey

HAPPY to give credit where it’s due, so my thanks go to our MP Simon Hoare for agreeing to be a co-sponsor of the Climate and Nature (CAN) Bill. I’d like to think it’s because I wrote and asked him to support the Bill, but that’s doubtless just wishful thinking. Whatever, I hope this is a sign that Simon’s support for much needed and urgent environmental action is going to be more in evidence from now on.

My own active support for environmental action started some years ago, prompted by my auntie Jo, who spoke admiringly about the brave direct actions being taken by environmental activists. I joined Greenpeace, then Friends of the Earth and then the Green Party. Seeking solutions, and the actions needed to implement them. In 2018, increasingly

Ken Huggins on behalf of the Green Party in North Dorset

alarmed at governmental failure to take the environment seriously, I joined the first Extinction Rebellion protest in London. Since then, public protests around the world have steadily increased, and the last one I joined was the March for Clean Water in London on November 3. In covering the more disruptive protests, the

media has, to its great discredit, largely chosen to focus on the protesters rather than their messages. In effect, shooting the messenger, and seeking to whip up outrage at the disruption of the protests rather than at the disruption of the ever-increasing effects of global warming.

It is increasingly hard to remain optimistic, but if we give up then we not only do ourselves a disservice but also the younger members of society who have the most to lose. With that in mind, I was pleased to take part in Weymouth College’s Eco Week, November 11-15, joining fellow XR members and other local activists in facilitating daily formal discussion sessions with groups of students and their tutors. This is the third year we have done this, and this time we focussed on nature recovery in Dorset. Sessions started with a

brief introduction to the topic, including the reasons for Dorset Council’s declaration of a nature emergency. We then invited the students to share what nature means to them personally, and possible ways in which they and Weymouth College could help to address the crisis. Their attention sharpened by the fact that we have now lost over 40% of our insects, and the UK is rated the fifth most nature depleted country in the world, the students came up with great ideas that will now be shared with the college and Dorset Council. One such idea was the need for regular formal discussion groups to review progress and come up with further ideas. Taking action, instead of burying heads in the sand and hoping that somehow the problem will magically go away.

The impact of Trump’s victory

SO that was unexpected. Should it have been?

Clinton taught us ‘it’s the economy, stupid.’ In a country where people felt, and by many metrics were, worse off under Biden and better off under Trump, it should have been unsurprising they’d vote Trump back in, rather than Biden’s VP. I resent the arrogance of a party which persisted so long with a candidate unfit for another four years of office. A Democratic party that talked down, rather than to, the voters it sought. It was the same as 2016 – the reek of entitlement. Much was made of Labour volunteers going to the US to learn from and support the Democrats. Perhaps the Democrats should now learn from us, on how we changed our Labour Party.

I’m not worried about the derogatory remarks Labour ministers made about Trump when in opposition. Trump has

Greg Williams, on behalf of Dorset Labour

mocked and been denigrated by everyone from RFK to Marco Rubio. And they’re both now in his cabinet. Clearly this man forgives or forgets.

My wife is American and our kids are dual citizens. So, we feel the results of the US election acutely. A country where we have started avoiding parades or other mass gatherings because of fear of

mass murder now feels even less safe. We’re more thankful than ever that, with our eldest starting school in Shaftesbury this year, he doesn’t have to endure things like active shooter drills. And where even in a CofE school, science is paramount.

The whole world will feel the impact of the Trump re-election whether you have any links to the US or not. I find myself scratching around for silver linings.

The war in Ukraine is not going well. The sheer size of Russia’s manpower advantage is forcing brave, depleted Ukrainian units slowly backwards. Unless NATO risks World War 3 by sending in its troops –as North Korea is now doing so to support Russia – or British missiles start striking deep within Russia, I can’t see a turnaround. Perhaps Trump can negotiate a peace with his fellow despot, albeit with much

Budget hits small businesses

IT’S been a busy couple of weeks in Parliament and around the constituency and I’ve spoken to many small business owners about the real-life impacts of the recent Budget announcements.

Of course, the ‘family farm tax’ has been front and centre in the news. I’ve spoken to Radio 4 and BBC Somerset about the how the removal of Agricultural Property Relief will hit small family farms and have called on the Government to scrap these planned changes to inheritance tax relief for farms. I’m worried that for many farmers struggling to keep their businesses afloat, this may well be the final straw.

My casework inbox has also been full of concerned small business owners who were dealt a hammer blow by the Chancellor’s announcements. The triple whammy of business rates relief changes and increased employers’ National

Lib Dem MP for Glastonbury and Somerton

Sarah Dyke

Insurance contributions, at the same time as wage bills going up, will be unmanageable for some. We should not forget Somerset is predominantly a small business economy with 99.76% of businesses classed as Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and employing under 250 people. I spoke to a business owner in the constituency who described the National Insurance hike as a disaster for

territory surrendered by Ukraine.

Is it time the ‘west’ becomes less dependent on China, economically? Universal tariffs on all imports to the US is extreme, but a realignment of global trade around a coalition of nations that respects each other’s sovereignty and security would curtail China’s economic might, and maybe its military ambitions.

I fear for Israel’s neighbours in the face of a Netanyahu emboldened by Trump’s support. But Biden was pathetic in his attempts to restrain Netanyahu. Depressingly, I’m not sure how things could get much worse for Gazans and Lebanese under Trump. The post Second World War institutions we have relied on for peace and prosperity clearly aren’t working anymore. They need shaking up. For better or worse, Trump will tip them upside down.

his business and said that amid all the furore about not raising taxes on ‘working people’ the Government had simply raised taxes on working people who run businesses. I can understand how business owners like him feel hard done by in this first Labour Budget. While some very small businesses are protected, it’s the squeezed middle of SMEs that will really struggle, and really concerningly, this includes some GPs and care providers. Many will find the increase in costs unsustainable, and we will find ourselves losing critical businesses and services. In fact, a local GP practice got in touch with me this week and told me the NI hike would add a staggering £45,000 to already strained staff budgets and would threaten the sustainability of the practice.

Many farming businesses will also come under pressure

from the increase to employers’ National Insurance. Often, farms run at very low profit margins, so there simply isn’t room for these increased costs. Extreme weather, spiking input prices, unfair trade deals, disease and new post-Brexit red tape – to name just a few – have left the agricultural industry in a position where it cannot swallow any more pressure and the consequences of this additional stressor should not be underestimated.

As always, I want to hear about what matters to you. If you would like to share your views how this will affect you, have an issue I can help with, need my assistance or wish to register your interest to attend one of my regular advice surgeries, or sign up for my regular monthly e-newsletter, please don’t hesitate to contact me at sarah.dyke.mp@ parliament.uk

Church

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

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

• Blandford Forum United Reformed Church: Sunday, December 8, 3pm carol service; Sunday, December 22, 3pm Advent Worship; Tuesday, December 24, 11.30pm Midnight Communion Service. All these services will be led by Rev Andy Hall.

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

• Chatty Café Scheme: Pear Tree Café, Half Moon Street, Sherborne, Mondays 2-3.45pm.

• Cheap Street Church, Sherborne: Prayer time –9.45am Thursday; Thought for the Day – 10.30am Thursday; Sunday service at 10.30am; Monday Music – second Monday of the month at 6.15pm with a bring and share supper; Taizé Service the second Sunday each month at 6.30pm. Further details from 07522 509868.

• Sherborne Churches Together: Christmas Tree Festival starts on Saturday, November 30, and ends on Saturday, December 7, with a carol service at 5pm. Volunteers needed to welcome visitors and take donations for the church’s two charities. Anyone who can help should email Rev.Becca. McDonnell@gmail.com

• Digby Memorial Church Hall: Sherborne Quakers meet Sundays 10.30am in the Griffiths Room. Everyone welcome. For more information, phone Nick on 07870 192599. The next meeting of the Mothers’ Union

is on Friday, November 22, at 10am in the Griffiths Room. Creative activities and coffee and cake will be on offer. Sherborne Churches Trust Christmas Day Lunch from 12.30pm-3pm for anyone on their own or without family at Christmas. Traditional lunch – turkey and all the trimmings followed by Christmas pudding – vegetarian option – no charge. To join in and/or volunteer fill in the form(s) at the Parish Office and someone will be in contact. Volunteers required for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

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

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

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

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

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

• Lufton Church: BA22 8SU, just to the west of Yeovil. Prayer Book services every Sunday at 6pm. Sung Mass on the third Sunday. See www. lufton.co.uk for details.

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

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

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

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

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

Tuesday, noon CW Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Wednesday, 10.30am Holy Communion with Homily; The Lady Chapel (alternates CW and BCP). Thursday, noon BCP Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Friday, 9am Ecumenical Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. First Friday of the month, 9am Requiem Holy Communion; The Sepulchre Chapel. Third Friday of the month, 11am Remembering the Fallen. Saturday, 9am CW Holy Communion; The Sepulchre Chapel.

• Sherborne Abbey Shop: Christmas gifts, toys and huge range of cards. Lots of new stock plus mugs, T-towels and bags due in before Christmas.

• Sherborne Abbey: The abbey’s Faith in Action Committee is seeking unused art materials, and board games and jigsaw puzzles, to support the Friends of Guys Marsh, which offers support to prisoners. To donate, text trustee, Mary-Ann, on 07900 056551 to arrange collection.

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

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

• St James, Shaftesbury: Sunday, December 1, 9.30am, Communion Service (CW) with additional choral, seasonal music to celebrate the Christian New Year.

• 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 Leonard’s, Semley: Advent carol service, ‘God of the watching ones’. Music, reflections, refreshments –December 1, 6pm.

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

• St Mary’s, Motcombe: Evening worship (BCP) – every

first Sunday 6pm; parish communion – every second and fourth Sunday 9.30am; evening worship – every third Sunday 6pm.

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

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

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

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

• Two Rivers Benefice: November 24 – 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 Church, Tarrant Rushton; 11am, Communion at All Saints, Langton Long. Sunday, December 1 – 10.45am Together Communion at All Saints, Langton Long; 3pm and 4pm Christingle at Charlton Marshall, crafts 3pm, service 4pm. Coffee and cake –Spetisbury 10am-11.30am first and third Monday each month; coffee and cake – Blandford St Mary 10am-11.30am December 19; coffee stop – Charlton Marshall Parish Centre 10.30am-12.30pm – Tuesday to Friday.

• West Camel Independent Methodists: Meeting at All Saints Church, BA22 7QB. Please note new service times. Sunday, November 10, 3pm –afternoon service. Sunday, November 17, 3pm – Sing Sankey. Sunday, November 24, 3pm – afternoon service with Holy Communion. Sunday, December 1, 3pm – Tea @ Three. Phone 01935 850838 or email Geoff.mead@yahoo.com

Year set to go out with a bang in 1,000-lots sale

CLARKE’S Auctions is busy preparing for its last sale of 2024.

Clarke’s has historically held its December sale between Christmas and New Year and found it to be one of its most successful sales.

Buyers perhaps relax after a busy Christmas and have the time and space to study the catalogue and possibly treat themselves to something.

The December sale specialises in jewellery, gold and silver pieces, antique collectable items and objets de virtu

About 300 lots have been consigned so far.

Interesting items include an impressive private collection of

cut glass silver-topped dressing table jars, among them rubyflashed examples, beautifully painted portrait miniatures and Victorian and earlier seals.

There’s also an 18th century onion-shaped green glass wine bottle, snuff boxes, fine ceramics –including a fabulous Palais Royale agate and gilt ormolu casket – silver candlesticks, Tunbridge ware boxes, Limoges enamel pieces, Venetian latticino glass and interesting ephemera and war medals.

Clarke’s is expecting to offer more than 1,000 interesting lots.

Anyone who has anything delicate, beautiful or unusual stored at the backs of cupboards

and drawers is invited to give the auction house a call to make an appointment and have the items appraised.

Clarke’s is accepting entries for future sales and enquiries for consignment into its 2025 sales or for probate or insurance

valuations, part and full house clearances or home visits should be made to Richard Clarke or Karen Marshall on 01747 685592 or 01747 855109 at the salerooms at The Old Glove Factory, Buckingham Road, Gillingham SP8 4QF. Israel Chikumbirike (Zimbabwe b1954). This large carved ebony bust of an African man is estimated to sell for £300-£500

One of two similar 19th century architectural mirrors in

Jewellery as a timeless Georgian craft

by Amy Brenan, director of Heirlooms Jewellers,

21 South Street, Wareham

THE origins of cut steel jewellery can be traced back to the Georgian period, particularly in England, where skilled artisans would handcraft each piece by cutting, polishing and riveting steel studs onto a base, often made of other metals.

The idea behind the intricate process is that the finished pieces looked like diamonds under candlelight but without the vast cost.

This unique style was created from sheets of steel pierced with a series of holes.

Small steel nail head rivets were then hammered into the holes in the steel sheet.

The process of hammering in the nails facets the heads and this is what creates a high polish and catches the light.

Because of this, steel-cut jewellery gained popularity during a

time when precious stones were less accessible to the general public.

Its popularity continued into the Victorian era, when intricate brooches, earrings and bracelets adorned with cut steel became highly sought-after by fashionable women.

The stunning necklace in the picture is for sale in my shop and is dated to the late George III period, circa 1800, and is in perfect condition, which is quite rare.

It is particularly special as it was never intended to be a collectable piece due to being made from inexpensive steel rather than a precious valuable metal such as gold or silver.

It was the costume jewellery of its day.

Many people confuse cut steel with marquisite, which is actually set in silver and is made by pavesetting lots of cut faceted pyrite stones close together, which was very popular in the 1940s and 1950s and is still made today.

This

Snuffbox sells for £19,000 at auction

ONE of the highlights of the Fine Quarterly sale held by Bearnes Hampton & Littlewood of Exeter was this gorgeous Continental gold, tortoiseshell, enamelled and micromosaic adorned snuffbox, the mosaic attributed to Giacomo Raffaelli (Rome 1753-1836), the construction French.

Its hinged cover was decorated with a flock of birds and other creatures, including a cockerel, a parrot, a jay, a serpent and a butterfly beside a

cascade – all within a gold foliate and an outer blue enamelled border.

The indistinct French hallmarks, including a rooster with number 3 (750) for Paris 1809-1819, made the box attributable to Jean-Louis Leferre.

BH&L knew the box to be a very fine thing and estimated it to fetch between £8,000 and £12,000.

On auction day, however, flew away to a hammer price of £19,000.

Something for everyone at Dore & Rees’s Upcoming Auctions

Dore & Rees bumper season of auctions continues with Fine Silver and Objets de Vertu (27 November); Fine Jewellery, Georgian Costume and Watches (27 November); Automobilia, Watches and Classic Cars (4 December) and Festive Friday Interiors (6 December).

Fine Silver and Objets de Vertu auction kicks off at 10:30am on Wednesday 27 November. An early Charles II chased tazza, made in London in 1664, displays a collared bear, a lion and a stag within flowers on its border and is offered at £2,000 - £3,000.

Fine Jewellery, Georgian Costume and Watches auction follows on at 2:00pm on Wednesday 27 November, featuring many interesting pieces including a midVictorian archaeological revival micromosaic bracelet offered at £2,000 - £3,000. A private collection of Georgian costume dresses featuring fine embroidered decoration augments the auction.

Automobilia, Watches and Collectors Cars on Wednesday 4 December is lead by a stunning 1963 Porsche 356B super 90 cabriolet. There is a private collection of Rolex watches and many unique high calibre automobilia lots for motoring enthusiasts. The auction is held in partnership with Five Zeros Supercars in Bradford on Avon.

Festive Friday Interiors on Friday 6 December is packed with delightful items to enhance your home, along with some fascinating collectables including full size daleks, best known from their iconic role in the Dr Who TV series.

Contact the team on 01373 462 257 or by email enquiries@doreandrees.com to arrange a free appointment to have your items appraised and valued. Check doreandrees.com for the latest information and highlights from upcoming auctions.

27th November 10:30am Fine Silver and Objets de Vertu 2:00pm Fine Jewellery, Georgian Costume and Watches

General antiques and jewellery

ACREMAN St Auctioneers & Valuers Sherborne is holding a two-day auction at the end of the month.

General Antiques & Collectors on Thursday, November 28, at 10am will feature a Lalique ChampsElysees bowl, military items – including a one-owner collection of edged weapons, an Irish primitive country chair estimated at £100-200 and a large-scale French automaton in the form of a bird cage expected to sell for £500-£800. A quantity of coin lots includes two £2 coin mis-strikes.

Jewellery, Silver Watches & Clocks on Friday, November 29, at 10am includes about 50 clocks, a South American 18ct cloak pin in the form of a fish estimated at £500-£700 and a 1905 silver gilt planished rose

bowl by Silversmith & Goldsmith Co expected to sell for £300-£500.

Acreman is now holding regular valuation days at its premises at 121 Acreman Street, Sherborne, DT9 3PH where prospective sellers can take in items for its specialists to evaluate.

Valuation days 10am-3pm: Jewellery & Watches, Tuesdays and Saturdays; Silver & Obje’t D’art, Tuesdays and Saturdays; Toys & Collectables, Wednesdays and Saturdays; Oriental & Asian, Thursdays and Saturdays; Coins, Stamps, Books & Ephemera, Fridays and Saturdays; Militaria, Fridays and Saturdays; Textiles & Fashion, Mondays and Saturdays; Paintings & Contemporary Art, Mondays and Saturdays. Alternatively, phone or email to make an appointment if you are unable to come in on the allocated days. Acreman is also happy to make house visits if required.

Buddha could sell for £10,000

DUKE’S Auctioneers’ full Asian Art catalogue is now available to bid and explore online.

The upcoming auction is on Wednesday, November 27, at 1pm following the Dick Hardy collection of snuff bottles starting at 10.30am the same day.

Hailing from a lineage of great spectacle and bounty, Duke’s Asian Art auction is shaping up to be one of memory.

splendour and historical gravity, while remaining anchored in Asian cultural pride.

A highlight of the collection is a Lapis Lazuli figure of Buddha, modelled seated on a turquoise pebble, highlighted in gold leaf with turquoise beads, raised on an agate plinth base, estimated at £6,000-£10,000.

With artefacts of such eternal beauty, it is of no surprise Asian Art continues to hold such a dedicated audience within the auction world.

Not simply figures of parade, nor rusted relics of sentimental value, Asian art blends both

This extraordinary Buddha sculpture –pictured – was designed by Luis Alberto Quispe Aparicio, a world-respected glyptographer, who specialises in the carving of ruby. His works are displayed in museums in the United States and Europe and are enjoyed by private collectors around the world.

ASIAN ART

Collection of badges

A LARGE collection of military badges is being sold by Charterhouse in Sherborne next week.

“The owner’s husband spent years collecting the badges but sadly passed away,” said Richard Bromell, from the auction house.

“Usually, we see badge collections in cabinets or in frames, but these were all neatly stored away in a filing cabinet in his office.”

The vendor, who lives on the Devon/Somerset border, took advantage of the home visit service Charterhouse offers clients looking to sell single

items, collections and complete house contents.

The badge collection, estimated to sell for £10,000, is entered into Charterhouse’s specialist militaria, medal, coin and stamp auction at its Sherborne salerooms on Thursday, November 28.

All the lots, viewing times and live internet bidding is available at charterhouseauction.com. Richard Bromell and the Charterhouse team can be contacted for home visits, advice and valuations on coins, medals, militaria and other collector’s items at The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne; phone 01935 812277; or via rb@charterhouse-auction.com.

WANTED Books, collectables and bric-a-brac. Call Jack: 07542 389447

WANTED Classic Cars & Motorbikes For private collection Call 07885 373113 or 01278 431244 Graham

What do a Dalek, Muhammed Ali and Basil Brush have in Common?

WELL they are all in Wincanton Auctions Three Day Collector’s Sale this 27th-29th November!

Just some of the highlights of the Sale include a rare Taschen G.O.A.T. ‘Greatest Of All Time’ collectors book, a tribute to and signed by Muhammed Ali. There’s a Life Size Dalek, a must-have for any Whovian, ready to exterminate the competition! A ride on Basil Brush, a twin engine ‘Black Horse Bombers’ remote control Mosquito fighter bomber with 1.6 meter wingspan, a collection of over 70 pieces of beautiful Moorcroft pottery including rare trial vases, A collection of special limited edition prints by Robert Taylor, one of the world’s premier painters of aviation subjects, which have been signed by Allied and Luftwaffe airman from Wing Commanders to Fighter Aces and over 2000 Dinky, Lledo, Yesteryear, Burago and other die cast metal Cars, Buses and aeroplanes and much, much more:

Day 1 Wednesday 27th November includes Moorcroft Pottery and China, Silver and Gold, Samps, Coins, Postcards, Photographs, Militaria, Breweriana, Tobacciana, Art, Books, Antique Samplers and other collectables.

Day 2 Thursday 28th November includes Toys and Models, Board Games, Computer Games, Remote Control, Models, Scalextric, Meccano, Lego and more!

Day 3 Friday 29th November includes Vintage and Designer Clothing.

Viewing for the auction will be on Tuesday 26th November from 10am – 4pm and throughout sale days. For more details please see our website at www. wincantonauctions.com or call 01963 361611.

Basil Brush

Home & Garden

Tidy-minded

– or not?

by Sally Gregson

IN

horticulture

there is a fascinating debate between gardeners who tidy away the entire garden ready for winter and those who do not. The argument goes that seed-heads and loose plant debris should be left for the birds to make nests or to eat to fatten themselves for winter. And it can provoke quite heated debates.

The argument for leaving the seeds is an obvious one, but perhaps not so for leaving lots of plant debris. Slugs and snails seem to like piles of slimy, dying leaves to hide beneath while they munch away. And birds love to line their nests, but perhaps with dry plant waste, and later in the season when they are actually thinking about making nests.

The soil texture can also

make a difference. Heavy clay soils seem to get wetter if they are blanketed with dying foliage, whereas light, sandy soils are more in need of extra fibrous material to help retain the moisture.

This winter may well be drier, but previous recent winters have proved to be too wet, and the argument is stronger for clearing away the slimy debris together with over-wintering slugs and snails. Perhaps it’s time for a more detailed look at the plant matter in question.

Seed-heads are certainly good for fattening up small birds, mice and other little creatures that are trying to survive and manage their winter. But perhaps the dying leaves of herbaceous perennials ought to be tidied away to

prevent damp and decaying foliage from swamping and overwhelming the hibernating crowns. They would be better left exposed to the weather, including frosts and ice. Many plants actually need a freezing period in winter to make them flower – apples, pears and hydrangeas, to name but a few.

So perhaps the message is not clear-cut. Consider the long-term. Clear away the

Winter-flowering cherries

by Sally Gregson

IT is at this time of year, just before Christmas, when the garden is going to sleep, that gardeners feel in need of a fillip – a shot in the arm, a flower hit. And it is just at this time of year that there is a beautiful flowering cherry to cheer us up

– Prunus subhirtella

‘Autumnalis’. All summer and autumn the tree has been preparing a very special treat – heads of delicate flowers all winter. And it will continue flowering cheerfully, off and on, until spring takes over.

Prunus subhirtella

‘Autumnalis’ is a long, complicated name for a tree that memorably produces delicate pink or white flowers all winter. ‘Autumnalis’ is misleading. It’s only just getting started in November. It does not produce a ‘knock-out’ head of flowers at any one time but will continue to lighten our darkness with sprigs of pale pink flowers all

winter long.

It has proved such a popular tree in small gardens that it seems hard to improve on its performance. But recently there has been a development. Every year the Royal Horticultural Society nominates its Plant of

the Year at the Chelsea Flower Show. And this year the accolade went to Prunus ‘Starlight’. This beautiful little tree has been bred from the aforesaid winter-flowering cherry by a British nurseryman, Ken Tobutt. And it’s a winner in

debris that might build up a slimy heap that would ‘protect’ plants over the winter from the cold. Layers of soggy, dead leaves are not really good enough. It’s more laborious, but maybe we should look to putting them on the compost heap and spreading that delicious stuff after it’s broken down. It’s an old-fashioned concept, but perhaps it’s the right one.

every way possible. It produces starry white flowers off and on from autumn, culminating in a flurry in early March. According to the RHS it is a ‘robust tree with a graceful habit’ and does well on most soil types in sunshine. I suspect a heavy clay would need to be lightened or the tree planted at the top of a gentle slope on such soils, however. But there can be no doubt that there will be a waiting list for a specimen so look it up online, and if it appeals, put your name on the list asap.

Prunus ‘Starlight’ shows off its flowers best when planted against a dark background, such as Portuguese Laurel or Bay as does P. subhirtella

‘Autumnalis’. Sadly, our winter skies are rarely blue enough to let it shine alone. It will need a good, well-drained soil in a sunny spot, and would be even more lovely underplanted with a cloud of snowdrops at its feet.

Some gardeners tidy away the entire garden ready for winter but others do not – and the topic can cause heated debate

Prunus subhirtella ‘Autumnalis’ produces delicate pink or white flowers

17D Wincombe Business Park, Shaftesbury SP7 9QJ

Home & Garden

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FOR SALE XMAS TREES SIZES None Drop’s. Traditional, Holly, Holly Wreath’s, Mistletoe. Next to Railway Bridge Motcombe. Open 7 day’s a week. From 27th November. Tel 01747-850129.

LANDSCAPES. All aspects of garden maintenance & landscaping 01747 825134 / 07885-586716

Specialist Tree Workers

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WALK BEHIND BRUSHCUTTER AND OPERATOR HIRE, orchards and neglected area clearance, 07432 773151

WOODBURNING STOVES, new Eco, at discount prices. Previous and ex-display model bargains. Wessex Woodburners. 01747-853110

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HUSSEY CARPET AND FLOORING, South Street,Gillingham,Dorset SP84AP Domestic and Commercial Carpets,Vinyl,Luxury Vinyl Tiles, Laminate and Wood Flooring. Contact Chris Hussey 07885273470 husseyflooring@gmail.com

LANGTON NURSERIES (C W Abbott & Son) Christmas Trees- Pot Grown and Cut, IOW Garlic and Onion Sets. 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

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& 24th November then from 30th November Daily 9:00am until dark

Growing Christmas trees for you for over 60 years Tel: 07494 015440 www.o-christmas.co.uk

RESTORATION OF YOUR WOODEN WINDOWS, DOORS and So Much More. Embrace the old don’t buy new. Ask me first and see what I

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transit tipper load £260 Half transit tipper load £160 Dumpy bag £100

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- Your local mobile service07760 469411 LOGS OUTDOORS

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Home & Garden

Groundworks and

amralphlandscaping@gmail.com www.ralphlandscaping.co.uk

Tree Surgery. Reductions. Felling. Hedge Trimming. Stump Grinding. Woodchip supplies.

Tree Surgery. Reductions. Felling. Hedge Trimming. Stump Grinding. Woodchip supplies.

Family run business since 1946

Family run business since 1946

Tel: 01963 250005

Tel: 01963 250005

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

B.SNOOK CHIMNEYS, Brush, Vacuum, Sweep, Problem Chimney Solved, New bird guard replaced, also includes chimney pots. Any distance. Phone Donhead: 01747-828904. Insurance certificate inclusive of 5million pounds

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Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

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Cleaner local to Stourpaine open to new clients. Eco friendly products used. £15ph 07955-323796

•

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COMPUTER MAINTENANCE & REPAIRS

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PAUL WEST DECORATING SERVICES and wall-paper specialist. Also hand-man. 35years experience. Free quotes. 07773-459168. paul.west945@gmail.com

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Health & Wellbeing

Herbs to calm the nervous system

by Fiona Chapman

ONE of my dogs has just had four lovely puppies. I would like to think that I would be a calm and practical midwife for my dog, but sadly, I am totally the opposite. Thank goodness for my daughter, who is brilliant. I can so understand how men – in the ‘olden’ days

– would be pacing up and down outside their wives’ bedrooms as they gave birth, wringing their hands – that is me. I find it incredibly difficult watching anyone in pain and particularly animals as they can’t tell you what or if anything is wrong.

My thoughts turned to calming herbs to try and take

Meditations in nature: The ivy and the Admiral

by Susanna Curtin

I FEEL as though the sun has been an absent friend this year, and especially the last few weeks where low pressure and mild, damp, grey weather has marked this autumn. But today the sun is putting in a rare appearance and so I have taken some time out for a walk along one of my usual routes on Cranborne Chase. Despite the lack of cold weather in early November, the colours now are in full force. I have always loved this time of year – the comfort of winter clothes, the rich colours of the landscape and the intensity of the lowlevel sunlight are a joy to behold.

Following beside a thinning hedgerow, I am suddenly accompanied by two very busy butterflies who are flitting daintily from one ivy flower to the next. Butterflies are not usually associated with winter, and with December just around the corner, most of our butterflies are overwintering either as an egg, a caterpillar or a chrysalis. Caterpillars bury themselves at the bottom of plants either just under the earth or in the leaf litter for protection. Here they remain until spring arrives. Then there are a few British species such as Brimstones, Commas, Peacocks and Small Tortoiseshells, who

the edge off the anxiety! A lot of herbs are good for calming the nervous system down. These herbs are often called adaptogens as they strengthen the body and mind to cope with stress by, among other things, regulating the HPA –Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal – axis, the body’s stress

response, by balancing adrenaline and cortisol levels. This in turn helps to reduce the effects of the SAS or Sympathetic-Adrenomedullary System, which relates to our immune response and if chronically overstimulated can lead to many diseases as well as depression, insomnia, anxiety

survive the winter as adults by ‘hibernating’ in sheds, rabbit holes and log piles, or tucked away tightly against the foliage where they lie dormant until the weather turns warmer.

The two butterflies I am watching, however, are Red Admirals, and they have a totally different story. Their Latin name is Vanessa atalanta, and they are one of my most favourite butterflies in the UK with their striking red, white and black wings tinged with petrol-blues. They tend not to lie dormant in the cold weather but roost only to resume activity on bright sunny days thereby making them a relatively common sight in winter. Red Admirals are strong, capable fliers who undertake long migrations, travelling northwards in the spring and summer and southwards in the winter, thus tracking favourable weather and foodplants. The first wave of these migrant butterflies that arrive in spring come from North Africa and southern Europe, then a slightly later wave comes from Spain and Portugal. Over the last 20 years, they have started to overwinter here, which is how they come to grace our gardens and hedgerows at this time of year – particularly in southern Britain. I have even seen them

in December and January. They are now a permanent resident and are often one of the most reported butterflies in the annual Big Butterfly Count. Today, they look absolutely magnificent – both are in pristine condition. As I watch their delicate movement, I am also enthralled by the ivy flowers and the number of tiny ivy bees that are also foraging. Ivy is one of those plants that we just take for granted as it is so ubiquitous. It is also rather a maligned and misunderstood species. Nevertheless, my garden is full of it, and I must confess I rather like the way it adorns my fences and takes over the places I fail to tend. I particularly like that it is of such value to wildlife. Firstly, its nectar and pollen are an essential food for many species of insects – particularly bees, moths and butterflies – and its berries are equally important for our finches, thrushes, woodpigeons, blackbirds and the blackcaps who have also begun to overwinter here. Secondly, it provides valuable shelter for wildlife to roost or hibernate, and dunnocks, flycatchers, robins and wrens

love to nest hidden among its dark green foliage.

Ivy has two phases of growth and can take up to 10 years to reach maturity. It begins with a climbing or sprawling stage which is later followed by a mature, bushy, non-climbing stage. The former has glossy, dark green leaves with three to five lobes and pale veins, whereas mature ivy has heart-shaped leaves and bears clusters of yellow-green flowers in rounded heads from September to November which are later followed by black berries from late November to January. Although Ivy is thought to be harmful for trees, it is only really those that are already diseased or which have sparse canopies that are at risk. Its aerial roots do not penetrate the bark, merely use it for support.

I watch as the two Red Admirals fly up and over the hedgerow and disappear from sight. It is heartwarming to see butterflies at this time of year. Their presence is a symbol of resilience and promise of the spring and summer to come. n Dr Susie Curtin (email curtin.susanna@gmail.com).

Red Admirals are a relatively common sight in winter

and hypertension.

Herbs that are particularly good for this are Ashwagandha – pictured – or Withania somnifera – a herb I am often talking about. Rhodiola rosea, which if combined with other adaptogens such as Schisandra chinensis and Eleutherococcus senticosus can help with cognitive function, lack of which – brain fog – can be associated with anxiety and

depression. I know if I get extremely anxious, my brain just stops working. Liquorice, Glycyrrhiza glabra, is particularly good for the adrenal gland and is also called the great harmoniser as it takes the herbs to where they need to go. Medicinal mushrooms such as Reishi and Cordyceps also have extremely powerful and

How to quieten the inner critic

by Emma Holmes WHOOPS,

yesterday I went to the shop and came back without the butter, the one item I set out to get! Once I realised my mistake a little voice stepped up to tell me off. This voice was mine and it was a familiar one, but one that I am working to try and quieten. This voice can be called an inner critic.

Maybe you have one? Some people have strong and loud inner critics telling them about all the things they do wrong. This critic can be judgemental and challenging, and it can dominate your thoughts, however there are ways to calm this voice.

speak to yourself in a kind way or a critical way?

Here are some ways to quieten that critical voice if you have one:

• 1 Step one is to notice and name it. Sometimes it's there so often we aren't aware, it feels like it’s us. You can give an image to your critic, maybe it could be a human or an animal. Give it a name. When it pops up, say: “Hi Bill, I notice you are back”. This helps you to separate the voice from yourself and become aware when it's jumped to action.

The way we speak to ourselves has a massive impact on our self-esteem. Do you

• 2 Step two is about gently challenging what it tells you. Is there another way of looking at the situation? Is this what you would say to a friend who had done the same thing? Can you

Health & Wellbeing

protective constituents that are anti-inflammatory, immunoprotective and relieve stress and anxiety. Another favourite of mine is Astragalus membranaceus, a great adaptogen that strengthens and protects many of the body’s systems, and Skullcap, or Scutellaria lateriflora, a nervine trophorestorative –

change some of the language, for example: “I am terrible at this…”. Instead try: “I made a mistake on this task and everyone makes mistakes from time to time. Let's try again.”

• 3 Step three, notice what went right. Maybe one aspect of something didn't work out well but was it all bad? What were the good outcomes? Often our brains naturally focus on the negative, so we have to work a little harder to find our positives.

See if you can begin to calm your inner critic with these steps. If you need more, talking

restores the nervous system. My temptation was to make up a huge cocktail of all the nervine herbs and glug it back as I paced uselessly around the room digging my nails into my hands every time my poor dog had a contraction. I didn’t, as there were rather more important things to attend to! n Fiona Chapman is a naturopathic herbalist (email Pellyfiona@gmail.com).

it over with someone could be an option because it can help put it into perspective, you could talk to a friend or professional like a counsellor. n Emma Holmes is a counsellor at Calm Seas Therapy and is based in Poole. She works online and in person –elholmes.counselling@gmail. com, phone 07442 662287. She is also co-founder of Dorset Employee Wellness Support [DEWS] which supports businesses by providing counselling and wellness services, for more information email DorsetEWS@proton.me.

Food & Drink

‘Friendly’ club reaches out to spread word

by editor@dorsetbiznews. co.uk

THE Friendly Food Club, based in Dorset, is tackling the growing trend of relying on fast food and ready meals by empowering local communities to cook healthy meals.

The charity, which has been offering cooking workshops across Dorset for over a decade, is now training groups to run their own courses, thanks to funding from Dorset Council and Waitrose.

Liz Guilmant-Cush, chief executive of The Friendly Food Club, explained the importance of this initiative.

“Every day, we meet people who lack the confidence or skills to cook,” she said.

“From teenagers unable to use tin openers to older people who depend on microwave meals.

“The Get Dorset Cooking training allows us to equip community groups to run their own workshops, helping as many people as possible across Dorset.”

Libby Lloyd, senior youth leader at Treads Youth Advice & Information Centre, said: “We’ve noticed that many young people aren’t maintaining a healthy diet.

“Since completing the training, we’ve incorporated cooking courses into our sessions, helping local youth cook nutritious meals for themselves and their families.”

The Friendly Food Club has offered cooking workshops across Dorset for over a decade – now it is training groups to run their own courses

The training, fully funded and available to groups such as foodbanks, youth organisations, and patient groups, ensures participants learn all the necessary skills to run safe, effective cooking sessions. Ongoing support and resources are also provided to help these groups build confidence in leading their own workshops.

Sue Brunt, chair of the NHS Patient Participation Group in Weymouth, spoke about the

impact the training has had on her community.

She said: “Before attending the course, many NHS patients lacked the knowledge and confidence to prepare healthy meals, affecting their ability to manage chronic health conditions.

“This training has inspired us to run cookery courses that break down these barriers.”

More information can be found at www.thefriendlyfood club.org/get-dorset-cooking

Creamy potatoes a decadent treat

DAUPHINOIS potatoes are always a winner and make a supper a little bit more decadent.

Method for 8

(One potato per person)

FINE slice potatoes – I leave skins on.

In a large-ish mixing bowl

pour double cream (900ml), fine bashed garlic cloves (three), the leaves stripped from a thyme twig, a good large pinch of Maldon salt and a good screw of black pepper.

Put the slices into the cream and make sure they are all coated well.

Fill a good-sized oven tin or ceramic dish with the potatoes, so they are all snug, to a good 3-4cm depth.

Push the potatoes down –

grate cheese over them if you like cheese – and put in the oven at 200 degrees on the middle shelf for an hour.

For a dinner party, I weight the ingredients down to either slice in a terrine tin or cut in circles for a gourmet finish.

Friends at home get a spoonful, however! n Annie des Forges, Director/Chef, The Table Bruton. Annie Austin, Director/ Host and Concierge Somerset Roadtrip.

Made over King’s Arms set to re-open

A 17TH century Shaftesbury pub is set to re-open on Monday (November 25) after being refurbished.

Wiltshire-based hospitality firm Chickpea Group has been hard at work making over the King’s Arms, in Bleke Street, which closed last year.

The pub is a short stroll from the iconic Gold Hill and a spokesperson for Chickpea said

the building was ‘packed with charm, period features and a large open fireplace, with plenty of cosy corners’.

Members of the Chickpea team have been busy working on a full refit of the space, redecorating to add ‘a rich colour palette of deep greens and reds, handmade blinds, tables, chairs and soft furnishings’, they added.

HONEYBUNS POP-UP SHOP

Saturday 7 December 9.30am-12pm

Stock up on gorgeous gluten free cakes for festive entertaining. Join us for fuss free tea and coffee, a cake and a catch up. www.honeybuns.co.uk/popupshop

Open first Saturday of each month, March to Dec. Honeybuns, Naish Farm, Stony Lane, Holwell DT95LJ.

Enford Farm Shop

Durweston DT11 0QW

Now taking Christmas meat orders!

Free range turkeys, beef, pork, lamb, game, hams and more.

Home reared and locally produced meats, game, deli, fruit, veg, free range eggs and lots more.

Follow us on Facebook for all our latest meat pack deals and what’s in fresh that week.

Chicken feeds etc available. Open Wednesday to Saturday 10am-5.30pm.

01258 450050

The King’s Arms will operate from 11am to 11pm, seven days a week, offering drinks and ‘pub bangers’ in the 100-cover dining space.

“The Kings Arms has all the characteristics of a great pub: a roaring fire, long bar, and plenty of space,” said Chickpea co-founder, Ethan Davids.

“We think our model will work nicely there and we’re

looking forward to swinging the doors back open after a particularly long period of closure.

The pub’s former games room has been redesigned, with a separate entrance and used as a revolving ‘pop-up concept’, giving the team the chance to bring in ‘seasonal special guests, retail offerings and much more’.

Wyke Road, Gillingham. SP8 4NW Christmas Menu Christmas Menu

The Old Brewery Cafe Now Available Please telephone: 01747 442164

Served from Monday 18th NovemberFriday 20th December

Dauphinoise potatoes

Motoring

Villages get EV charging points with more on way

ELECTRIC vehicle (EV) charging points have been installed in two Dorset villages – with plans to roll out further charging points to several more towns and villages.

The new EV charging points, which will go live in the coming weeks, have been installed in car parks at Park Way in West Moors and Kettle Bridge in Cerne Abbas.

The charging points were installed as part of Dorset Council’s ‘Charging Ahead’ initiative which seeks to get 80% of households within a 10-minute walk of a public charging point by 2030.

The council said that by the end of the year an additional 11 car parks in towns and villages

across Dorset will be equipped with EV chargers thanks to the programme.

This includes the installation of three new charging hubs in Weymouth, Blandford and Bridport.

Funding for the new chargers comes from a mix of sources, including government grants, private investment and local developer contributions.

The new EV chargers will be located in:

• West Moors

• Cerne Abbas

• Blandford Forum

• Dorchester

• Sturminster Newton

• Bridport

• Weymouth

• Sherborne

• Wareham

• Lyme Regis

Once these are installed, the total number of public charging points will reach just under 300 across Dorset.

The council said the installation of the charging points will not affect nearby businesses or impact the use of car parks.

“The Charging Ahead programme is crucial in our efforts to reduce emissions and combat climate change in Dorset,” said Councillor Nick Ireland, Dorset Council’s cabinet member for climate change.

Dorset Council’s ‘Charging Ahead’ initiative seeks to get 80% of households within a 10-minute walk of a public charging point by 2030

“By expanding the network of electric vehicle chargers across the county, we can make it easier for residents to transition to electric vehicles.

“This shift will help improve air quality and create a healthier environment for everyone.

“However, it’s critical that our rural communities don’t get left behind in this transition to sustainable energy, so I’m thrilled to see charge points being installed in our villages as well as our towns.”

To suggest possible locations for EV charging points, submit an online form on the council’s website.

PHOTO: Dorset Council

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2017 (17) Ford KA+ 1.2 Zetec 5dr. 85bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, parking sensors, cruise control, hill hold, air con, Bluetooth, upto 56mpg economy, small exterior with a spacious interior, 76,900 miles ....................................£6450

2012 (62) Ford Ka 1.2 Studio 3dr. 69bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, £35 yearly tax, 50+mpg, simple car with basic spec, cambelt replaced, MOT Nov 2025, private sale on behalf of a customer, 73,500 miles .......................................£2950

2014 (14) Ford Kuga 2.0TDCi Titanium X AWD 4x4 SUV 5dr. 163bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, 4x4, high seats, leather, heated seats, heated screen, sat nav, park sensors, auto park, reverse camera, sunroof, auto lights & wipers, cruise, lane aid, sign recognition, hill hold, electric tailgate, cambelt replaced, 92,500 miles .........£7450

2020 (69) Ford Tourneo Custom 2.0TDCi Titanium 320 L1 H1 Automatic 9 Seat Minibus 5dr. 130bhp, diesel, 6 speed automatic gearbox, 8 seat plus driver, reversable seats for conference or forward facing, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, heated front seats, park sensors, cambelt replaced, 97,000 miles ............£21500 + VAT = £25800

2020 (69) Ford Transit 2.0TDCi Trend 350 MWB MR L2 H2 11 Seat Minibus 5dr. 130bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, 10 seat plus driver, 2 front seats, 9 rear seats, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, heated front seats, hill hold, cambelt replaced, 90,200 miles.........................£19500 + VAT = £23400

2014 (64) Kia Venga 3, 1.6 Automatic (Sat Nav) 5dr. 123bhp, petrol, 4 speed automatic gearbox, high seating, decent boot, sat nav, parking sensors & reverse camera, electric sunroof, partial leather, heated seats, cruise control, sign recognition, hill hold, only 38,800 miles........................................................£7850

2016 (66) Mazda 3, 2.0 SE-L Nav Automatic 5dr. 120bhp, petrol, 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, sign recognition, heated seats, hill hold, 75,900 miles...................................£8450

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2006 (06) Mercedes-Benz CLK200 1.8 Kompressor Sport Automatic Convertible 2dr. 163bhp, petrol, 5 speed auto gearbox, recent new roof & shocks absorbers, full history, 15 stamps, heated leather, electric roof, auto lights & wipers, cruise, park sensors, MOT June 25, private sale on behalf of a customer, 77,500 miles ...........................................................................................................£4250

2015 (65) Peugeot 308 1.2THP Allure Automatic 5dr. 130bhp, petrol, 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, park sensors, reverse camera, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, hill hold, only £35 a year road tax, 50+mpg economy, cambelt has been replaced, 69,500 miles..............................................................DUE IN SOON

2019 (19) Renault Captur 1.5DCi Iconic Automatic SUV 5dr. 90bhp, diesel, 6 speed automatic gearbox, sat nav, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, hill hold, high seating, sliding rear seats, upto 67mpg economy, 20,300 miles .........................................................................................................£12250

2017 (17) Vauxhall Astra 1.4 SRi 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, cruise control, pre-collision assist, sign recognition, hill hold, Bluetooth, 63,600 miles ..............................................£6950

2016 (66) Vauxhall Mokka 1.6CDTi SE 4x4 SUV 5dr. 136bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, 4 wheel drive, high seating, big boot, heated leather seats, heated steering wheel, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, parking sensors, hill hold, performance & economy, upto 60mpg,

Announcements

PUBLIC NOTICE

Goods Vehicle Operator’s Licence.

Mr Gareth Buscombe and Mrs Carly Buscombe Trading as Heritage Railway Movements Ltd of Baton Elm, Barton Hill, Kington Magna, Dorset, SP8 5EH are applying for a license to use Styles farm workshop, Henstridge Airfield, Templecombe, Somerset, BA8 0TN.

As an operating center for 1 goods vehicles and 2 trailers. Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings near the operating centers) who believe that their use of enjoyment of the land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Quarry House, Quarry Hill, Leeds, LS2 7UE stating their reasons within 21 days of this notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A guide to Making Representations is available from the Traffic Commissioner’s office.

ANNOUNCEMENT

Age Concern Sturminster, North Dorset, is seeking more volunteers willing to support their Befriending Service. We are especially keen to find more volunteers to help us with clients in Gillingham and Shaftesbury.

If you have experience of working with the elderly, please contact us on 01258 475582 or e-mail info@acnorthdorset.org.uk

We would love to hear from you. To learn more about our charity contact our website on www.acnorthdorset.org.uk

IN MEMORIAM

Gemma Palmer

Mum miss you on your birthday and everyday. Love Lilia, Macey and Evie xx

Gemma Palmer

Love & miss you on what would have been your birthday and always. Love Mum and Dad xx

Thorne, Larry 18/09/58 - 27/11/12

Eleven years since you have passed. Still in our thoughts and hearts. In loving memory of a wonderful husband and father. With love Debi, Lauren and Ellen xxx Twelve

DEATHS

Margaret Elsworth

Formerly of West Stour passed away quietly on the 3rd November 2024. Much loved mother, grandmother and great grandmother.

Funeral service at St Mary’s West Stour, on 27th of November at 11am, followed by a private family cremation. Family flowers only please. At Margaret’s request please wear a splash of colour.

Donations if desired for Weldmar Hospice. Enquiries to Bracher Brothers, Funeral directors, Newbury, Gillingham, SP8 4QL. Tel: 822494.

Vickery Joyce

Suddenly on 20th October, aged 79 years. A dearly loved Aunt and friend.

Funeral service will take place at Yeovil Crematorium on Friday 29th November, at 3:20pm.

Enquiries c/o Brister & Son Funeral Directors Tel : 01935 812647.

BERTRAM ALICK AKHURST

Passed away at home on Tuesday 5th November 2024. He will be fondly remembered by family and friends. His funeral was held at Mendip Crematorium on Tuesday 19th November 2024.

Donations, if desired, to the ‘R.A.F. Benevolent Fund’. All donations and enquiries to A.J. Wakely & Sons, Funeral Directors, The Old Police Station, Wincanton, BA9 9JS. Tel: 01963 31310.

WILLIS DAVID LEONARD

Passed away on 31st October 2024 at Salisbury District Hospital. A much loved husband, father, father-in-law, brother and son and much adored ‘papa’ to Rory.

A loyal and wise friend to many. Service to be held on Monday 2nd December at 14:30 at the Long Barrow, Harbour View Crematorium, Randal’s Hill, BH16 6AN. Refreshments to be enjoyed after.

Family flowers only, but donations welcomed to thank the wonderful Intensive care unit (Radnor ward) at Salisbury District Hospital.

Donations can be made via Woods & Tapper Funeral Service, 6 Albert Road, Dorchester, DT1 1SF. Telephone: 01305 250425, www.woodsfuneralservices.co.uk

In Arduis Fidelis.

DEATHS

CYNTHIA MURIEL BRIERLEY

It is with tremendous sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Cynthia Muriel Brierley – ‘Cindy’ – on the 6th November 2024, aged 86.

Cindy was best known alongside David, her beloved partner of 53 years, for their involvement with the Pimpernel Beagles in Dorset and their success in the battle against the Silton Wind Turbines.

She was also well-known and highly respected in the farming community for her raising of rare breeds, especially her Friesland Sheep, using their milk to make yoghurts and cheeses which she sold all over the country.

Cindy leaves behind her children; Jenny, Jakki, Tony, grandchildren; Beth, Ben, Calvin, Tamsin, Jodie, great grandchildren; Ellie, Annaliese and Reece, and her beloved brother Vic and sister Susie; all of whom, alongside her extended family, will miss her terribly.

The Funeral will be held at Worthing Crematorium on Friday 29th November at 3:30pm, followed by a wake at the Worlds End, Patching, and all who would like to say goodbye to her are very welcome.

We would like to ask that instead of flowers, donations to the Injured Jockeys Fund would be welcomed and may be made online at https://cindybrierley.muchloved.com/ cheques made payable to the charity: C/o Ian Hart Funeral Service, 92-94 Broadwater Street West, Worthing, BN14 9DE. Tel; 01903 206299. Please feel free to wear a splash of colour.

BILL DUTFIELD

Passed away peacefully at Dorset County Hospital on 6th November 2024 surrounded by his family. Beloved Husband of Lynn and Father to Lorraine and Tracey. Grandad to Josh and Amy. Funeral Service to be held at Poole Crematorium on Wednesday 27th November 2024 at 3:00pm. Family flowers only please but donations, if desired for Dementia UK, may be made online by visiting www.close-funeral.co.uk (Via the Much Loved Link) or cheques payable to Dementia UK c/o Colin J Close Funeral Service, Peel Close, Salisbury Road, Blandford, DT11 7JU. Tel: 01258 453133.

IAN ROBERT ANDREWS

It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we inform you of the passing of Ian on the 1st November 2024. Ian was much loved by his partner Jackie, his loving family and many friends. We would like to celebrate and honour his life at St Mary’s Church, Templecombe on Friday 29th November at 11am. Followed by burial at Wincanton Cemetery. Family flowers only please, donations if desired for the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance Trust. C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services. Tel: 01963 362570. www.peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk

HORST BERNARD SCHROEDER

Peacefully on 5th November 2024 surrounded by his family. Horst aged 89 years of Gillingham. Much loved Husband, Father and Opa. Funeral service at Yeovil Crematorium on Monday 25th November at 1:20pm. Family flowers only please, donations if desired for The Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Trust. C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Harwood House, Newbury, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4QJ. Tel 01747 833757.

AUDREY STELLA EXTANCE

Peacefully at home in Marnhull aged 96 years. Much loved Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother. Funeral service at Yeovil Crematorium on Thursday 28th November at 2pm. Family flowers only please, donations if desired for Versus Arthritis.

C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, The Old Reading Room, Shaftesbury Road, Henstridge, BA8 0PP.

CHILDS

Peter Thomas

Peacefully on 30th October 2024 at The Old Rectory Care Home, Stalbridge, aged 94 years of Gillingham. Beloved Husband of the late Rene. A much loved Uncle who will be dearly missed. Funeral service at Salisbury Crematorium on Tuesday 3rd December at 12:00pm. Family flowers only please. Donations if desired, for Mindful can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk or cheques made payable to the charity may be sent:

C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Harwood House, Newbury, Gillingham, SP8 4QJ. Tel: 01747 833757.

KELLOW

Margaret Mary

Peacefully on 7th November 2024 at home in Holwell, aged 77 years. Beloved Wife of Roger. Dearly loved Mam of Fiona and Tom, Step-Mum to Peter & James. Devoted and proud Grandma, much loved Sister and Aunt.

Funeral service at Yeovil Crematorium on Friday, 6th December at 11.20am. No flowers please, donations if desired for either Weldmar Hospicecare or Cancer Research UK can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk or cheques made payable to the charity may be sent: C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, The Old Reading Room, Shaftesbury Road, Henstridge, BA8 0PP. Tel: 01963 362570.

Announcements

DEATHS

ROSEMARY BARBER

Formerly of Gutch Common and Shaftesbury. Passed away peacefully on 4th November 2024 aged 96. A full life to the end and will be sorely missed. Much loved Mother, Grandma and Great Grandma. Any donations for Cancer Research UK or British Heart Foundation 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.

Rees, Winifred Georgina “Georgie”

Left this world on 31st October 2024, at home as she would have wanted, aged 92. Deeply loved Mum, wife and friend. There will be a celebration of Georgie’s life at St Nicholas’ Church, Child Okeford at 11:30 on Tuesday 26th November and then at the Village Hall – everyone welcome. Blue was her favourite colour – please do wear a touch of blue if you wish. Family flowers only please; donations welcome in Georgie’s memory to Age Concern North Dorset Sturminster Newton c/o Colin Close, Blandford Forum, 01258 453133.

ROGER ALFORD

Passed away peacefully on 7th November 2024 at Westminster Memorial Hospital, aged 80 years. Much loved Husband, Father, Brother and Grandad, who will be greatly missed by all his family and friends. Funeral Service at Yeovil Crematorium on Monday 16th December at 12 pm. Please feel free to wear colourful clothing. Family flowers only, please. Donations, if desired, for Cancer Research UK may be made online by visiting www.grassbyclose-funeral.co.uk or cheques made payable to the charity sent c/o Grassby & Close Funeral Service, 4 Innes Court, Sturminster Newton, DT10 1BB.

COURT ANN BURNETT

Aged 82 years of Templecombe. On 8th November 2024. Peacefully at Yeovil District Hospital. A much loved Wife, Mum, Nana, Aunt and Friend. Funeral Service at Yeovil Crematorium on Friday 29th November at 2.40pm. Family flowers only please. Donations in memory of Ann are being invited for Macmillan Cancer Support, c/o Harold F Miles, Funeral Director, South Cadbury, BA22 7ES. Tel: 01963-440367

WINIFRED ANN DITE (ANN)

Died peacefully at Signature House Nursing Home, Dorchester on 12th November 2024 aged 79 years. Beloved wife of George, loving mother to Teresa and Rebecca and grandmother to Cara and Kit. Funeral service to be held at Yeovil Crematorium On Wednesday 4th December at 11.20am. No flowers please but donations,if desired, for Save The Children may be made online at https://mhfd.co.uk/donations/ or sent to Merefield & Henstridge F/D, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532

Judith Mary Kirby nee Emblin

died peacefully on 7th Nov aged 88 at Ashwood Care Centre, Warminster Very much loved wife for 66 years of Idris Kirby. Mother to Nicholas, Rupert and Sarah. Grandma to Veronica, Julius, Isabella, Gabriel, Francesca and Madeleine. The funeral will be at St. John the Baptist Church in Tisbury on Friday December 6th at 11am, followed by private family cremation. Please wear something bright. No flowers but donations if required to The Children’s Society via Chris White Funeral Directors.

Terence Cyril Leigh Preston

9th October 1946 – 6th November 2024

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Terence Cyril Leigh Preston, who left us 6th November 2024 aged 78, following a courageous battle with cancer. He was a devoted father, a beloved grandfather, and a cherished friend. Born 9th October 1946 in Birmingham, Terry will forever be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family and friends, boundless generosity, and ever-present sense of humour. A funeral service will take place on 25th November 2024 at 9:15 a.m. at Rawdon Crematorium in Leeds, West Yorkshire.

Eileen Phoebe Wellen

Passed away peacefully at Dorchester Hospital on 3rd November 2024, aged 92 Years. A special thanks to the Cardio Ward staff for their kind care. She will be missed by family and friends. Funeral service will take place at Blandford Evangelical Church, Albert St, Blandford on Wednesday 4th December at 12.30pm. Close family flowers only please.

Donations to British Heart Foundation and Asthma + Lung UK c/o Colin J. Close Funeral Service. Tel: 01258 453133

DEATHS

SHIRLEY ANN SARGENT

Passed away peacefully at Yeovil District Hospital on Sunday 10th November 2024, aged 85. A Service of Thanksgiving to be held at St Mary Magdalene Church, Thornford, on Thursday 12th December at 11:00am, followed by a celebration of Shirley’s life at Yeovil Crematorium at 12:40pm. Both services are open for anyone to attend who wishes to pay their respects. Family flowers only. Donations if desired, for Thornford Church and Barnardos can be made on the day or at www.ajwakely.com

Enquiries to A J Wakely & Sons, 16 Newland, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 3JQ. Tel: 01935 816817.

Peter Frank Harding

Passed away peacefully on 13th November 2024. A much loved Husband, Father and Grandfather aged 87 years. The Funeral service will take place at St Peter’s Church, Hinton St. Mary on Friday 6th December at 2pm. Family flowers only please donations if desired for either Cancer Research UK or St. Peter’s Church, Hinton St. Mary can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk

STONE MASONS

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•

•

•

•

•

•

• Tailored and unique Attended Funerals

•

Newbury, Gillingham SP8 4QL Tel: 01747 822494 Newell, Sherborne DT9 4EZ Tel: 01935 813479

Newbury, Gillingham SP8 4QL Tel: 01747 822494

Newell, Sherborne DT9 4EZ Tel: 01935 813479

J Wakely& Sons Independent Family Funeral Directors

Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse

Choice of Hearses available including

Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817

Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817 Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310

Tel: 01963 31310

Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310

plans available Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817 Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310 – 24 Hour Service –

Sherborne Tel: 01935 Wincanton Tel: 01963 – 24 Hour Service

Pre-payment plans

Pre-payment plans available

Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or

Please contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance. Pre-payment plans available

Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817 Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310

Please contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated

Please contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.

Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817 Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310

Golf club’s silent auction

raises more than £5,000

SHERBORNE Golf Club made a big noise last Saturday when it held its first ever public silent auction.

Club captain, Russell Mead, said: “Thanks to the generosity of our vibrant local business community and the support of club members, the auction proved to be a big success.

“Our objective was to have some fun and support Mosaic, the Dorset-based children’s bereavement charity, along the way.

“Without appearing immodest, just like Rory McIlRoy, we absolutely smashed it.”

The auction featured well over 130 lots, suited to all tastes and budgets.

A signed Bournemouth FC shirt was one of the lots

Stand-out items included a glass-framed and authenticated AFC Bournemouth football shirt and a Premier League football, both signed by the team’s players – and a flag from this year’s golf Open Championship at Troon, signed by Gary Player.

Other lots included an opportunity for two people to stay in the prestigious Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa and a boat

trip to Old Harry Rocks.

Grape picking at the Manor School Vineyard and a ‘day-inthe life’ experience at Bradfords Building Supplies were quirky lots.

Russell added: “The auction greatly exceeded our expectations, by raising over £5,000.

“This means, together with donations raised by the club throughout this year, we’ll hand over a cheque to Mosaic in excess of £12,000. A truly stonking result.

“But, and it is a very important ‘but’, full credit and grateful thanks must go to all the many lovely people who supported us and made the whole auction event possible.”

12-minute hat-trick for Beard in eight-goal

FOOTBALL

by Avril Lancaster

Didcot Town 3

Shaftesbury 5

SHAFTESBURY earned their first ever Pitching In Southern League South away win on Saturday at Loop Meadow.

This followed a 4-0 win at Sherborne Town in the Dorset Senior Cup where Jack Hoey

and Brett Pitman scored two each.

Beard opened the scoring on 21 minutes after a scramble in the box looked to have been miraculously saved by the Railwaymen keeper Leigh Bedwell.

Two quick goals from Conner Barrett and Adam Learoyd put the home side ahead.

thriller

But within six minutes Beard added two more and Harry McGrath skimmed in a header off his namesake Connor McGrath from Liam Farrugia’s corner to put Shaftesbury 4-2 ahead.

Jenson Wright’s 72nd minute goal reduced arrears before substitute Remus Nixon broke clear in injury time to seal three points on the road and move the

WINCANTON Golf Club results:

Seniors Monthly Stableford – November 5: 1 Brian White 43, 2 Colin Jacobs 41, 3 Kevin George 36.

Seniors Back 9 Stableford – November 5: 1 Geoff Lye 18, 2 Derek King 15 ocb, 3 Harry Eden 15, 4 Malcolm Faulkner 15.

Seniors Roll Up Front 9 Stableford – November 8: 1 Geoff Lye 19, 2 David Ivey 18 ocb, 3 Phil Francis 18.

Monthly Stableford –November 10: 1 Adam Smith 36, 2 Chris Chapman 34 ocb, 3 David Whitehand 34.

Seniors 9 Hole Greensomes – November 12: Winners: Geoff Lye / Keith Williams

Seniors Greensomes –November 12: Winners: Pete Starkey / Phil Francis.

Rockies up to 16th place in the table.

Juniors fall short in league final

WHEATHILL Juniors, Oscar Martin, George Harris, Eric Goymer, Elliott Tuck and incoming junior captain, Lucy Sleeth-Stevens, played in the final of the Somerset Junior League as winners of the South Division, against Burnham and Berrow, winners of the North Division, at Long Sutton.

This was a Stableford round with 12 points for the best score then 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 for

the rest of the scores.

The rounds were played in great spirit as each individual did their best to score highly on a neutral course.

All the juniors acquitted themselves excellently with most playing to within range of their handicap.

Particularly notable was the score for Lucy, placed second

overall with 37 Stableford points and nine points for the team.

But in the end the experience of the lower handicapped team gave Burnham the win by 35 points to 22.

It was the first time Wheathill Juniors had reached a county final and the club are proud of their achievements and of Jill Byrne, who nurtures the juniors so well.

It is hoped to build on this success in the coming season.

GOLF

GOLF

Shaftesbury’s victory over Didcot followed a cup win over Sherborne

PHOTO: Avril Lancaster

In the picture (from left) George Harris, Eric Goymer, Elliot Tuck and Lucy Sleeth-Stevens

Recruitment

GILLINGHAM SCHOOL, DORSET

Hardings Lane, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4QP

https://www.gillingham-dorset.co.uk

11-19 Mixed Comprehensive - 1,670 on roll including 290 in the Sixth Form

Specialist Teacher – Lead for the Complex Communication Needs (CCN) Specialist Resource Provision (SRP)

TLR 2.2 + SEND Allowance

Required for April (if not sooner), a committed, adaptable and creative Specialist Teacher to join our thriving Support for Learning team. The successful applicant will be experienced in working with children and young people with complex communication needs. You will be required to support students on both a 1:1 and small group basis to, in our purpose-built Inclusion Base, as well as offer advice to other colleagues and parents.

Can you:

• Build and sustain positive relationships with our children, young people and families.

• Support students to succeed through targeted interventions to develop their skills and understanding.

• Support students to integrate and thrive in their mainstream lessons.

• Communicate clearly with students, parents and other colleagues. If so, we would like to meet you.

This role will involve:

• Teaching pupils with CCN/ASC individually and in groups within the provision as well as supporting the work students will carry out within mainstream classrooms.

• Carrying out detailed observations, such as those used in the SCERTS approach/AET framework.

• Working alongside other professionals such as occupational therapy (OT) and Speech and Language Therapy (SALT) professionals.

• Working in partnership with other agencies (including OT, SALT, SENSS) to develop learning plans that meet the needs of the individual pupils.

• Working in partnership with class teachers to ensure the pupils are effectively included in mainstream activities as appropriate for each individual.

• Developing and creating resource materials to meet the needs of the pupils and oversee the ordering of resources if required.

• Ensuring that a robust assessment system, for all pupils, leads to personal educational programmes and appropriate improvement targets.

Phone 01737 822222 or visit our website for an information pack and application form for either post.

Closing date: 29 November 2024

We are committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and will require the disclosure of any criminal convictions. Gillingham School will conduct online searches of shortlisted candidates. This check will be part of a safeguarding check and the search will purely be based on whether an individual is suitable to work with children. As care must be taken to avoid unconscious bias and any risk of discrimination a person who will not be on the appointment panel will conduct the search and will only share information if and when findings are relevant and of concern. We look forward to receiving an application form from you.

HEALTHY 80S WIDOWER IN SPACIOUS BUNGALOW near A303 seeks companionship with younger lady with some cooking skills to share occasional winter evening meals by fireside. Ed 07838-171405.

PARSONS IN SHERBORNE shop assistant butcher required part or full time. Experience preferable but not essential. 01935-812071 parsonsbutchers@outlook.com

Rutters Solicitors - Family/Litigation Legal Secretary wanted part time or full time based at either our Shaftesbury or Gillingham office.

Experience is preferred but not essential.

Email v.howell@rutterslaw.co.uk with your CV and covering letter.

BLACKMORE VALE JOBS GROUP

For jobseekers and employers

NOW ON Facebook

Come

join our

SENIOR RESIDENT MATRON

We are seeking a caring and empathetic person with strong inter-personal skills and a can-do attitude, who will be an excellent role model for our pupils.

The successful applicant will be required to work weekends and evenings as required and have significant overnight responsibility. Accommodation will be provided.

To start as soon as possible.

To learn more about this opportunity please call the School Office on 01258 860219 or visit our website: www.hanfordschool.co.uk

A Application deadline: Monday 2 December

Note : Please apply using our own application form and send direct to head@hanfordschool co uk and not through third parties In terviews from 5 December 2024

Hanford is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment.

These posts are all subject to enhanced DBS checks

Hanford School is part of Sherborne Schools Group Charity Number 1081228 & Company Number 04002575

CHILD OKEFO RD BLANDFORD FORUM DORSET DT11 8HN www hanfordschool co uk

and

staff body at our v vibrant and h happy prep school for girls (aged 7-13) set in the beautiful Dorset countryside:

Recruitment

New degree apprenticeships in pipeline at BU

by editor@dorsetbiznews. co.uk

BOURNEMOUTH University (BU) has been awarded £465,000 from the Office for Students (OfS) to create five new degree apprenticeship courses, with the goal of addressing regional skills gaps.

The programmes, set to launch in September 2025, will cover Digital Marketing, Accounting and Finance Management, Biomedical Science, Social Work, and Midwifery.

SEWING MACHINEST required for friendly upholstery workshop. Hours/pay negotiable. Email: office@ minsterfurniture.co.uk, Tel: 01258 455397

SHARE AND CARE WITH ELDERLY WOMAN in BA4 6EA for £150 per month. Lovely house, double room, shared bathroom, if interested pls call Carola 07817-522480

CARER/COMPANIONMARNHULL, 3 days/nights per week 24 hour live in Carer/ Companion with household duties for elderly lady Call 07807-046119

Applications will open early next year, with tuition fees funded through the apprenticeships levy.

This funding marks the second time this year that BU has received support from the OfS for its degree apprenticeships.

In January, the university announced two new courses, and in July, the OfS recognised BU as an outstanding provider.

Professor Philip Sewell, Director of Apprenticeships and Skills at BU, highlighted the

CLEANER WIMBORNE/ FERNDOWN within 10 miles. Available 3 hours a week. £20 an hour. 07712-162005.

HISTORIC MOTOR RACING MECHANIC NEEDED. Race preparation and potential selected race day attendance for a 1963 Elva MkVII Lotus. Location: Holwell Dorset. Please call 07768556284 or email mv_roe@hotmail.com

EGG PACKERS WANTED. 7:30am until 2pm daily. Call Paul on 07967388895. Landshire Lane, Henstridge.

HOME HELP NEEDED for Sherborne woman, 4/5 hours p/w, £15 p/h. Richard 07305-657010.

university’s ambitions: “We want to be the region’s degree apprenticeship provider of choice, strengthening the local workforce and meeting national challenges caused by skills gaps.

“This funding represents the scale of ambition we have as a university to deliver apprenticeships that meet the region’s needs.”

BU already offers five degree apprenticeship courses, supporting more than 400 apprentices.

EXPERIENCED

CARPENTER/CABINET

MAKER sought to teach keen young adult. Full time preferred, part time considered. Good rate of pay. Please contact 07887 954701

CHARLTON MUSGROVE

PARISH COUNCIL seeking Part Time (Flexible) Parish Clerk, 20hrs a month. Email clerk@ charltonmusgrovepc. org.uk for full details and application pack

Bournemouth University will be launching courses in Digital Marketing, Accounting and Finance Management, Biomedical Science, Social Work, and Midwifery next September

The additional funding will also be used to promote equality of opportunity in the region.

“Workshops and after-school sessions will be held for under represented groups, offering guidance on how to apply for degree apprenticeships.

Professor Sewell added: “We will create resources for schools and hold webinars to help parents and carers understand degree apprenticeships and support applicants.

“We’ll also offer mock interviews to prepare them.”

SITUATIONS

CHEMISTRY TUTOR Experienced GCSE and A Level teacher. Call 07732 418488 or visit www.cometugrow.com/services.

BLACKMORE

JOBS GROUP

Port Regis is a delightful preparatory school, for day and boarding children aged 2-13, in Shaftesbury, Dorset.

We are seeking to recruit:

SWIMMING TEACHERS

The necessary training and qualifications for this role are desired but not essential and can be arranged for suitable candidates with availability to work during the afternoon, evening or at weekends.

The successful candidates can expect competitive rates of pay and benefits; and to join an exceptional working environment and staff team.

For full details of the roles and application procedure, please visit our website - portregis.com/vacancies

Early applications encouraged

Port Regis (Charity No:306218) is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Applicants must undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Pets

Corona virus link to Feline Infectious Peritonitis

by Lynn Broom Longmead Veterinary Practice

FELINE Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a disease which develops in some cats in association with a corona virus. This is different to the Covid-19 corona virus and has been recognised in cats for many years.

The corona virus itself is present in about 80% of cats and rarely causes disease. The reason why some cats carrying it become ill is not fully understood but is likely to be multi-factorial.

Some cats will never become ill despite being infected, some will be transiently unwell but then recover and some will develop FIP and will die without treatment. We know that pure breed cats, those living in multi-cat households and those that are stressed or

otherwise unwell are more susceptible. Young cats are much more commonly affected. It appears that non-diseasecausing viruses mutate within the cat and the virus load –higher in multi cat situations –together with the immune status of the cat determine whether disease will develop.

Symptoms can be vague and can come and go. Typically, a cat with FIP will present with a high temperature and be off their food. This may resolve then recur. In typical ‘wet’ FIP, fluid will collect in the cat’s abdomen causing a typical ‘swollen tummy’ but this is not always seen. ‘Dry’ FIP often causes neurological and ocular signs and symptoms can be variable.

It is almost impossible to diagnose in a live cat but certain findings can point towards it. For instance, the protein ratio of

Typically, a cat with FIP will present with a high temperature and be off their food

albumin and globulin in blood or the abdominal fluid can be used to increase the suspicion of FIP. If the virus is found in macrophages – a type of cell –in abdominal fluid, then this is diagnostic but the numbers of these are often very low – if present at all – and can easily be missed.

Effective treatment consists of a long course of antiviral

KC REG COCKER PUPS.

medication which can be given IV, orally or a combination of both. Courses are expensive and choosing to start treatment can be difficult if the disease is only suspected rather than confirmed. FIP is a complex disease but should always be considered in a sick cat with a high temperature of unknown cause which does not resolve with symptomatic treatment.

BLACK LABRADOR PUPPIES Parents fully health tested 07841-979784.

for Cats, Dogs, Puppies & Kittens 2024book yours now - call or pop in store

Check- a-chip service is free food. Natural treats, toys, collars leads and harnesses. Veterinary bedding, shampoo, grooming and towels Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm & Saturday 10am to 1pm. Christmas opening hours: Open until 3pm on 21st December

Last orders for collection 16th December Re-open 2nd January.

1 black bitch white chest. 1 gold and white dog. 1 gold bitch reserved. 1 black dog. 1 red dog white markings. Vaccinated and microchipped. Docked with certificate. 07340 130975.

C.B. Brett & Son

Pet & Wildlife

Dog - Wet, Dry & Frozen Food

Cat - Wet & Dry Food

Bird/Hedgehog/WildlifeFood,

WE HAVE 7 F3B COCKERPOO PUPPIES, looking for their forever homes, 5 boys and 2 girls. Will be ready for their new homes from 14th December. Price: £1200. Tel: 07505825162

PARSON RUSSELL TERRIERS. Rough coat and smooth coat tricolour. Dogs and bitches available. Worm and flea up to date. Microchipped and vaccinated. Would make lovely family pets or working lines. 07887-468827

How to promote peace among your feline friends

by Raychel Curson

MAINTAINING harmony in a multi-cat household can be challenging, as cats have not evolved as social creatures and are sensitive to changes in their environment. However, there are several strategies you can implement to help promote peace and reduce tension among your cats. Here are four key things you can do:

N+1 resources

THE general rule is to have one more resource than the number of cats you have – this includes litter boxes, bowls/feeding stations, sleeping areas. Ensure that resources are placed in different areas of the home to prevent conflict and ensure that every cat has easy access to one without feeling threatened by another cat.

Don’t forget 3-d space

CATS are natural climbers and often feel more secure when they can observe their surroundings from a height. Install cat trees, shelves or other climbing structures that allow them to perch above ground level. This gives them a sense of security and allows them to avoid confrontations with other cats on the ground. Vertical space can help create multiple ‘territories’ within the same home. Cats can share the same room but occupy different levels,

reducing conflict and allowing each cat to claim their own area. Promote peaceful cohabitation

IF you’re introducing a new cat to the household, do it

INCREDIBLY slowly. Start by keeping them in separate rooms and allowing them to smell each other through the door. You can also exchange bedding to help them get used to each other’s scent. After some time, allow supervised visits through different barriers and continue to monitor their interactions closely. You can use treats or playtimes to help them associate being together with good experiences but do not feed them close together in an attempt to foster positive associations – it often does the opposite. Play & mental stimulation

ENGAGE each cat in regular playtime with toys like wands – avoid laser pointers – or balls, interactive play sessions help release pent-up energy, reduce stress and prevent boredom, which can contribute to tension and aggression. In addition, providing a stimulating environment with puzzle feeders, scratching posts and toys can help reduce anxiety and social stress. With time, patience and the right resources, your cats can coexist more harmoniously. Please get in touch if you need more assistance.

n Raychel Curson BSc (Hons) MA CCAB APBC-CAB FABC ABTC-CAB is owner of Pet Peeves Animal Behaviour & Teaching. Email raychel@ petpeevessomerset.co.uk.

MID DORSET CATS PROTECTION Cats looking for new homes

Brie, 15 months, sweet girl looking for a quiet home

& Yvette, five months, bonded pair looking for a home together, without other cats

, three years, sweet girl looking for a quiet home

Kenya, six years, stunning Bengal looking for someone who knows the breed

Rene & Gruber, 4 ½ months, bonded pair looking for a home together, without other cats

Dusty, 11 years, delightful boy looking for a retirement home

n For details, please call our helpline on 01258 858644 or visit our website www.cats.org.uk/middorset

LOST CATS

If your cat has gone missing, Cats Protection offers practical steps to help bring them home safely. Start by searching your local area thoroughly, checking sheds, garages, and outbuildings where they might be hiding. Create posters and share them in your neighbourhood and online communities. Inform local vets and animal rescues in case someone has found your cat. Ensure your cat’s microchip details are up to date, as this can be a vital tool for identification. For a detailed guide and additional advice visit the Cats Protection website or call us on 01258 858644.

Mimi

Rosie

Items for sale

ROUND POLISHED TEAK

ERCOAL 42” (107cm) pedestal dining table with 20” (50cm) extension option and 6 chairs. Excellent condition. £200 ONO. Buyer collects. Shaftesbury. 01747 850073/229427.

00 TRAIN SET, steam and diesel loco, 15 freight wagons, 36 rails, transformer, never used, VGC Offers considered. Tel 01747-821319

MUCH LOVED BENTLEY

UPRIGHT PIANO needs rehoming. £400. 01935-426876.

PIANOLA ROLLS, all classical music. 90 rolls at £2 each or £150 for lot. 07764-359492.

STANDARD LAMP 4ft 6” brass effect £10. Tv table 24”x14” black/ chrome £10. Sherborne 01935-812328.

4 JIGSAW PUZZLES

300,500,1000,1000 pieces brand new from America Cow Themes “20 01747 826795

MENS 21” BIKE WHITE 21 gears excellent condition £50. Tel 07963-951651.

SONY SOUND BAR with sub woofer. Excellent condition. £50. Tel 07725-162122.

JENKINS FLOOR PASTE

WAX. W100. New £55.00. Sale £25.00. New internal panel door. 197x685x35cm. £25.00. 07713-463282. Sutton Mandeville

IKEA DISPLAY CABINET

H180cm W50, D34 , Height of cabinet 101cm 4 glass shelves. buyer collects 07743-731685

GARDEN TOOLS. Mains powered, one Strimmer and two Hedge Trimmers. £40.00 or near offer. Tel 01258 860580.

TEMPUR SINGLE MATTRESS good condition £50. 01258-454062.

BOSE SOLO 5 TV SOUNDBAR. Mint condition complete with cables and remote. £50. Buyer collect Sherborne. Tel; 07880-936062

RECLINING ARMCHAIRS GC teal fabric manual recliner £50 ONO. Shaftesbury area, buyer collects. 01747-229427.

BELLE MAXI MIX 140 240V

£300. Belle wacker plate £400. Tel 07721-530520.

MIGHTYMAC LEAF VACUUM/ MULCHER 8hp Self propelled. Hardly used. £700 01747-828036

ALEXANDER ROSE GARDEN

SET, black, round table and 4 chairs with cushions. Never used VGC. Offers considered. Tel. 01747-821319

IKEA DINING SET, light ash, extendable table and four chairs with cushions, never used VGC. Offers considered. Tel, 01747-821319

ONE FAWN FABRIC MANUAL RECLINER £20. Shaftesbury area, buyer collects. 01747-850073.

60 1000s JIGSAWS COMPLETE

£2.50 each. Ravensburg, Falcon and Wasgij. 01747-851296.

CATERPILLAR STEEL TOE

CAP BOOTS, brown size 10, only worn a few times. £30 Tel 07721 530520.

FIVE & A HALF LITRE

STAINLESS STEEL slow cooker only used once (too large for me) Excellent condition £15 Tel 07449-116144

GENTS COLORADA MOUNTAIN

BIKE. Very good condition. With stand and riders helmet. £50. 01963 31930.

THREE WHEEL DISABILITY WALKER. Almost new. £30. 07770 536656.

HALFORDS MARASA VOODOO

MEN’S BICYCLE Only used three times. very good condition. Cost £350 new but will sell it for £50. Gillingham. 07775-656100.

QUANTITY OF MEDLAR FRUITS for jam or jelly making. Collect from Tarrant Hinton 07946544189

CIRCA 1900 STAIN PINE AND MAHONGONY rectangular hanging cupboard, with asragal glazed door 29”x21” £20 01935389064 (Sherborne)

SWIMMING POOL,

TOWER 9ltr DUAL BASKET AIR FRYER good condition complete with book, silcone liners. Bargain £30. Full size stand kitchen mixer complete with tools, book. Good condition. £20. 07964-499423.

CHILD’S BED 6ftx3ft brand new with new matrees excellent condition, never used ready to go. £50.00. Shaftesbury 07760-776792

DISPLAY CABINET WITH GLASS FRONT, sides and shelves. 33”Lx42”H. £12. 01747-840835

VINTAGE STONEWARE JARS

£20 each, all about 20cm high, photo available. Buyer collects, Yeovil address. Tel: 01935-425958.

GRAND PARENTS

Selling travel cot and mattress (bought separately) both as new. £50 01935-421313

LARGE HENRY VACUUM

CLEANER EXL long lead. Used twice. £50. Buyer collects. Sherborne. 01935-815648.

FREE TO A GOOD BATHROOM

white close coupled toilet and fittings and seat. As new, never used. Tel 01963-23477.

TWENTY USED “HALF DOZEN EGG” boxes £3.50 Gillingham, 01747-824240.

BIRD TABLES ON STAND and nesting boxes. Well made £10-£35. Ideal Christmas gifts. Tel 01963-824607

BOX OF PICTURES/FRAMES £5 01935-873441 (Nr Sherborne)

RALEIGH LION childrens tricycle - restoration project - free01747 853942

GLASS SHOP DISPLAY CABINET, 3 shelves, mirror back, working light. H163 x W40xD35. £25 o.n.o. call 01747 824482

GARDEN TOOLS, fork spade etc, will sell separately for reasonable offers. Shaftesbury 07855 557585

PORTABLE CD PLAYER with a/mf/m radio (batt/mains) type-gv-ps 733-original boombox 01935-873441 Nr Sherborne £15

FLY ROD - Make: Hardy. 9’ 3” - 7/8 weight. Two Piece. £30 o.n.o. Telephone: 01747 840473

MOBILE HIGH CHAIR, VGC. £10. Tel: 07794-136581

DUAL WALKER WHEELCHAIR £20, Tel 01935 814746

HOTPOINT BLACK DOUBLE OVEN. Very smart, fully functioning & VGC. Changed for range cooker. Bargain £50. Sherborne 07976 937830.

CORNER COMPUTER DESK in perfect condition, unmarked wooden top with sturdy black metal frame. Can send photo, room needed. £30. 07712-739555

BUSH 32” FLAT SCREEN TV with pedestal stand / Good condition with remote handset / HDMI and scart inputs. £35 Shaftesbury 01747 854850

MEDIUM DOG TRAINING CAGE. 30x19” £10. Tel: 07935-698505

CHRISTMAS POULTRY WORKERS REQUIRED between Wincanton and Bruton. Good rates of pay. 07812-009364.

OLD BOOKS BOUGHT. Will call by appointment entirely without obligation. Bristow & Garland 07392602014

Field & Stream

‘Animals look deep into your soul and make everything better’

by Tria Stebbing

NEVER underestimate the power of nature to heal and support your mental health. Much is being written currently about the farming community and the impact of the recent Budget. Farms that have been in families for generations are now at risk of development due to the heavy Inheritance Tax being levied by the Government.

On Tuesday, the farming community was being encouraged to protest in London to raise the issues currently faced by them, social media is alive with farmers up in arms and battling their own issues, financial and social, and many turn to their animals for support.

I myself had a moment this week with Blue, my runty little castrated lamb that really was not expected to survive. He was a twin born to one of our most maternal Zwartbles, but for whatever reason, she decided shortly after giving birth to him, that she really didn’t like him much, so therefore would not bother to feed him.

Once a day for six weeks I

would grab him at feeding time and literally stick him on her teat – he had no alternative than to drink. He was, although really small, quite savvy, and took to nibbling the grass and drinking from the trough. It was going to go one way or the other, it was down to Blue.

When autumn came, he chose not to stand at the feeder, but would come and rub himself against my leg, once again, charmed by his perseverance I would hold out a handful of sheep cake for him to nibble.

He began to grow, both in size and in stature, becoming a frequent visitor to an outstretched hand and could take on two ginger nut biscuits without batting an eyelid. The other sheep accept him for who he is, he still is the first in line for an ear rub and faithfully follows us both around the field as though we are his parents.

The last few weeks have been challenging. A broken tractor that we need to get the hay out of the barn before the rain comes. A puncture on the car, family issues, a leak in the ceiling and a poorly family pet.

When the sun finally put in a watery appearance on Sunday, we walked up to spend some decent time checking in on the animals. Sebastian needed a good brush, as did Belle. The sheep needed watching, the ram needed observing, the perimeter fences needed bits of branch removing and the fence needed moving.

Walking to heel next to me while I did all of the above was Blue, not wanting anything in particular, but to be next to me. Those of us that keep animals will understand, they look deep into your soul and make everything better. They make you get up in the morning and they push you to your absolute limits, but we love them, and they love us unconditionally.

Animals are now used as

therapy in many ways, reducing stress and anxiety by triggering the release of oxytocin, serotonin and prolactin. They motivate us to move and exercise as well as encouraging a bond, a talking point and a reason.

We have no use for a runty castrated lamb, so we thought, but from my point of view the world looks a better place today thanks to Blue and what he has taught me about acceptance.

Clearly a quiet time with the animals this week, or should I say a slow news week. The cows behaving and Humphrey keeping the girls suitably entertained has led to time to reflect. Maybe something we should all do every now and then, make the time, life is too short.

Electricals store wins ‘green’ award

HOME electronics store,

Dacombes of Wimborne, has been rewarded for its efforts to reduce its environmental footprint.

The independent store was recognised three times at the ERT industry awards, which celebrate the UK’s electrical retail sector.

The family-run business won the Best Sustainable Independent Electrical Retailer award for its efforts to transfer

to solar energy to power the hundreds of domestic appliances at the store.

Dacombes installed 99 solar panels on the roof of its showroom in Leigh Road thanks to a grant from Low Carbon Dorset, which means the business is energy self-sufficient during working hours.

The company has also invested in two electrical vehicle van chargers, a Tesla battery and uses a heat pump for

all heating and cooling, along with energy efficient lighting and equipment.

Dacombes managing director, Matt Renaut, said: “Our green energy investment is hugely important. I’m thrilled that our business is the first to win this new award category.

“To be recognised for our sustainable ethos means a great deal and I hope other businesses in our industry will follow our lead.”

He added: “The night just kept getting even better when we scooped the coveted Turning Point Award, which recognises a retailer that has gone the extra mile to adapt their business or stepped out of their comfort zone to try something new –we’ve certainly done that!

“And we crowned the night with a Highly Commended in the Best Small Independent Consumer Electronics Retailer category.”

The world looks a better place today thanks to ‘runty castrated lamb’ Blue

Farming

‘PM’s soothing words and now the harsh reality’

by Ruth Kimber

THE rural and business press is full of dire predictions about the plight of family farms and businesses. The killing of the golden goose, comes to mind. At the NFU conference before the election, Sir Kier Starmer famously reassured farmers when he said: “Everyday seems to bring existential risk to British Farming. Losing a farm is not like losing any other business, it can’t come back. That’s why the lack of attention to detail,

the lack of long-term planning, is not on. You deserve better than that.”

But then he was looking for votes.

The NFU (National Farmers Union) has organised an online petition which anyone can sign whether a member or not – www.campaigns.nfuonline. com

It has been a relief, not being rained on, the cloudy days with no sunshine dampen the mood, but a few hours of sun soon lift the spirits.

The turkeys have enjoyed the sun, which brings out some flying insects, which they catch with unbelievable dexterity. The first of this year’s crop has been processed for Thanksgiving to serve our US customers.

But it won’t be long before we start the Christmas birds. The phone has been busy with enquiries and orders. Our free-range fresh turkeys and other meats will again take centre stage at Christmas and New Year. We thank our customers for continued support. How the years roll on.

Tom is feeding fodder beat for the first time – I will let you know how it goes!

Plans for improvements to our slurry system are going forward with some trepidation with the inheritance cloud

hanging over the family.

Asset rich, cash poor, has always been the case in our business – land purchases, building projects and improvements have all been facilitated with loans, which is the case in many farming businesses. A great deal of risk with a dash of optimism has been the order of the day.

More and more regulation and expectation on delivery of ‘public goods’ keeps coming our way. Much of which is good but it comes with a cost. n Kimbers Farm Shop, Kimbers Kitchen, Somerset Trading Barn BA9 8HD, on B3081 Wincanton Racecourse Road. www.kimbersfarmshop. co.uk; phone 01963 33177; open Tuesdays – Fridays 8.30am-5pm, Saturday 9.30am4pm.

Farmers’ leader blasts Budget move

THE NFU has met with the Defra Secretary of State and Treasury officials to stress the significant impact changes to Inheritance Tax (IHT), as outlined in the recent Budget, would have on British food and farming.

In the meeting, NFU president Tom Bradshaw outlined what it would mean for family farms across the country, the knock-on impact on homegrown food production, and the stress and anxiety these planned changes are causing.

Mr Bradshaw said: “I’ve spoken to a huge number of our members in the past few days and heard some really upsetting accounts of what this tax would do to family farms.

“I’ve heard about distressed elderly parents who are having to apologise to their children in tears for something that isn’t their fault, telling them they’re sorry because they feel they’re now a burden on the family.

“I’ve heard from families who can’t see any way they

can plan for a future which doesn’t result in losing their business.

“Men and women who’ve spent years building up farm businesses now wondering what’s the point in carrying on when it’s going to be ripped apart.

“These are the working people of the countryside, and I made it clear to Defra and the Treasury today that there has been a clear miscalculation of the impact this will have on them.

“The Treasury has got its figures wrong. This policy won’t protect family farms, it will do the opposite.

“Treasury officials have assumed that all previous Agricultural Property Relief (APR) claims are working farms, which is not the case.

“Nor did these claims include those eligible for Business Property Relief (BPR).

“Far from protecting smaller family farms, which is what ministers say they’re doing,

they’re actually protecting private houses in the country with a few acres let out for grazing whilst disproportionately hammering actual, food-producing farms which are, on paper, much more valuable.

“Even Defra’s own figures show this, which is why they’re so different to the Treasury data this policy is based on.

“With Defra data showing two-thirds of farms could be affected, it was good to hear that the Treasury would look at the discrepancy in figures.

“I also asked if there were plans for an impact assessment of this policy on homegrown food production.

“Because if farms are being broken up and sold, British food will be hit.

“There is a very real threat to our long-term food security because there is no incentive to invest for the future.

“With businesses already running on unsustainably tight margins – mass flooding meant that many haven’t turned a

profit this year – compounded with further costs from National Insurance and National Living Wage increases, farming families have nothing left to give.

“At last year’s NFU Conference, we heard from Sir Keir Starmer that ‘losing a farm is not like losing any other business, it can’t come back’.

“He was absolutely right. It can’t. And neither can its ability to produce food for the nation.

“That’s why the only sensible course of action is for the Treasury to reverse this decision.

“The pressure is building. Defra and the Treasury are aware that on 19 November, NFU members will be making their way to Westminster to take part in our mass lobby of MPs.

“We will be looking them in the eye and ask them if they support this family farm tax, or if they will do the right thing for their farming constituents and support our call for it to be reversed.”

Air quality in the calf housing

by Lucy Hepworth BVSc MRCVS

WHILE the weather this October has been challenging for us all at times, the warm damp climate is optimal for survival of pathogens that cause pneumonia and scours. Most airborne bacteria and viruses can only last five-10 minutes in fresh air but if only 50% of the air is fresh then viruses last for up to one hour.

It is recommended that there are six to eight air changes per hour in a calf shed. In practice, this can be assessed with smoke tests on a still day and timing clearance from the shed. Pathogens need moisture to survive. Relative humidity in a calf shed will depend on water inputs – stocking density, any rainfall into the shed, leaking water sources, water used for cleaning etc – and effective water removal – drainage and ventilation. Air changes take water vapour out of a calf shed and this reduces relative humidity (RH) to ambient. In damp conditions, crypto,

rotavirus, salmonella and mycoplasma can all survive for months. The ideal would be for RH to be under 70%. It is very easy and cheap to instal relative humidity monitors in the calf shed. The Brifit Wireless Thermometer Hygrometer work well, they transmit the data via bluetooth to an app on a smartphone. A set is under £20.

As well as pathogens, stale air will have increased levels of ammonia and dust in it.

Ammonia is produced from urine in the warm bedding. Exposure to ammonia weakens the defence system of the calf’s upper respiratory tract, rendering it more vulnerable to respiratory viruses getting into the lungs. We can smell ammonia between 10-25 ppm. The target for a calf house is under 10ppm so if you can

smell ammonia at calf level, ammonia levels will be too high. To get ammonia levels below target, a calf house needs sufficient air changes. The drier the bedding – the slower the production of ammonia. While ventilation is imperative for ensuring air is fresh and RH is minimised, it is key that air speed is right at calf height. Air speed should be about 0.2m/s. When assessing ventilation in calf housing, I will l often use my anemometer to check air speed at calf level. Common respiratory and scour pathogens do not survive as well under 5⁰C. However, calves will feel the cold, particularly when under a month old. Damp bedding and wind

chill will add to this. The lower critical temperature (LCT) is the temperature below which a calf needs additional energy to keep warm. For a calf less than four weeks old, the LCT is 9⁰C in a dry draught free (0.2m/s) environment. This increases to 17⁰C at an air speed of 2m/s. Put a maximum and minimum thermometer up in your calf house so that you can monitor night time temperatures to know when to use your cold weather protocols – increased milk volume, heat lamps, calf jackets etc.

Getting the environment of the calf right is key to minimising pneumonia. Clearly, nutrition also plays a big role in resilience as well as boosting natural immunity with vaccination. Many farmers have already got their vaccination protocols in place for this autumn and winter, but it isn’t too late. Intranasal protection is achieved within 10 days of administration. Do get in touch if you would like to assess your calf housing further or have any questions on pneumonia control this season. Animal health and welfare funding is still available for all farms this year and can be a useful way of funding these visits.

Lucy Hepworth of Friars Moor Livestock Health

End of the line for spring show

THE Gillingham & Shaftesbury Spring Show is no more, it has been announced.

Organisers said the decision to axe the event came after ‘lengthy deliberation’, as the ‘current financial climate deems it unviable and impractical for us to continue’.

“Since 2022 the Spring Countryside Show has been a celebration of local producers, horticulture and rural traditions, however the challenges the show encountered throughout the

course of this year now far outweigh the benefit of proceeding with the event,” a spokesperson added.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank all exhibitors, traders, visitors and volunteers who have supported the event over the last three years.

“Your unwavering dedication truly made the event what it was, for which we are eternally grateful.

“We hope to see you on August 13 and 14, 2025, with the return of the Gillingham & Shaftesbury Agricultural Show.”

The 2023 Spring Show, planned for April, was

delayed due to poor weather, before going ahead in early June at the Turnpike Showground, in Motcombe.

Call us on 01749 813957 or 07971 012628 or find us at www.southwesttyreservices.co.uk

CASUAL HELP REQUIRED, mainly agricultural. Must be driver. 01258-880892 07980-036250

SHEEP KEEP WANTED. 12 miles radius from Wincanton. To suit 100 ewes. Tel: 07564-277083

18 ACRES AVAILABLE for grazing or agriculture, 3 miles north of Sherborne. 07711 184124

MOBILE CRIMPING AND ROLLING. All cereals, pulses and maize, up to 20 tonnes per hour. Call Andy 07979-758907.

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IFOR WILLIAMS HB511 HORSEBOX-SILVER. New from 2013 barn stored New condition £2500 07906 610928

Sedgehill Shaftesbury Quality hay from well managed low input grassland.

SMALL BALE WHEAT STRAW & SMALL BALE HAY COLLECT OR DELIVERED 07980-147019/01747-870360

FULL SIZE BRIDLE Stubborn and breast plate, full size. Good condition. £40. Tel: 07935-698505

HAY. All June made. 3ft, 4ft and 6ft bales. Collect or delivered. Call Mark 07860 759996 or 01300 345293

Cat Harris Gillingham and Shaftesbury Spring Show secretary

CONCRETE GROOVING SERVICE.

Cowco Southern. Call Ted: 07970-965040

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.

ALLIS CHALMERS TRACTORS wanted for parts. 01935 873169.

WANTED: Small piece of land. (Dorset area) Tel: 07810-472347

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SHIPPING CONTAINERS FOR SALE Tel: 01258 472288 / Mob: 07977 936109

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EVERY WEDNESDAY WEEKLY SALES OF PRIME CATTLE CULL CATTLE DAIRY CATTLE & CALVES. PRIME, STORE & CULL SHEEP ******************************************************************** EVERY FRIDAY – SALE OF STORE & BREEDING CATTLE ********************************************************************

WEDNESDAY 4th DECEMBER SALE OF REARED CALVES ********************************************************************

WEDNESDAY 27th NOVEMBER CHRISTMAS FATSTOCK SHOW CLASSES FOR HANDLED & UNHANDLED PRIME CATTLE. BARREN COWS. PRIME LAMBS. PRIME PIGS & CALVES FATSTOCK SHOW DINNER FRIDAY 29th NOVEMBER

WEDNESDAY 11th DECEMBER FORTNIGHTLY SALE OF PIGS

MONDAY 16th DECEMBER SALE OF TB RESTRICTED CATTLE ********************************************************************

OF REARED CALVES ********************************************************************

WEDNESDAY 11th DECEMBER FORTNIGHTLY SALE OF PIGS ********************************************************************

WEDNESDAY 18th DECEMBER LAST MARKET BEFORE CHRISTMAS SALE FOR ALL SECTIONS INCLUDING REARED CALVES, PIGS & STORE CATTLE

WEDNESDAY 4th DECEMBER SALE OF REARED CALVES ********************************************************************

MONDAY 16th DECEMBER SALE OF TB RESTRICTED CATTLE

WEDNESDAY 18th DECEMBER LAST MARKET BEFORE CHRISTMAS SALE FOR ALL SECTIONS INCLUDING REARED CALVES, PIGS & STORE CATTLE

WEDNESDAY 11th DECEMBER FORTNIGHTLY SALE OF PIGS ********************************************************************

MONDAY 16th DECEMBER SALE OF TB RESTRICTED CATTLE ********************************************************************

MONDAY 30th DECEMBER SALE FOR ALL SECTIONS EXCEPT PIGS ******************************************************************** FOR ADVICE ON ALL CLASSES OF STOCK PLEASE CALL BRADLEY TOWELL 07496 263916 TOM ROGERS 07384 462288

WEDNESDAY 18th DECEMBER LAST MARKET BEFORE CHRISTMAS SALE FOR ALL SECTIONS INCLUDING REARED CALVES, PIGS & STORE CATTLE

MONDAY 30th DECEMBER SALE FOR ALL SECTIONS EXCEPT PIGS

FRIZZLE 07977 136863

DORSET

Silton

Guide £1,395,000

Milton Abbas

Guide £1,100,000

Mappowder Guide £595,000

Mappowder Guide £595,000

A fine Grade II listed former village Post House with attractive gardens, surrounding countryside. CTB E. Freehold.

A fine Grade II listed former village Post House with attractive gardens, a substantial barn/workshop and lovely views to the village church and surrounding countryside. CTB E. Freehold.

A fully renovated stone farmhouse with traditional farm barns for conversion with holiday let and residential use, lovely south facing gardens, swimming pool and adjoining level field. In all 2.87 acres. Freehold.

Marnhull

A character south-facing stone house in an excellent central village

Situated at the entrance of the historic village of Milton Abbas, with accommodation totalling just over 4000 sq ft including a self-contained apartment, offered to the market with no forward chain. Freehold.

Marnhull Guide £525,000

A character south-facing stone house in an excellent central village location with a large oak-framed double garage, workshop and southfacing gardens. CTB E. Freehold.

facing gardens. CTB E. Freehold.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Marston Magna

Guide £795,000

Shroton

An attractive, 4 bedroom detached property set within a generous walled plot. The property features spacious open-plan living and enjoys a south-facing garden. Freehold.

Guide £435,000

Shroton Guide £435,000

This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage has been fully updated village. CTB D. Freehold.

This delightful 2-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage has been fully updated but retains great charm. It is situated in the heart of this most desirable village. CTB D. Freehold.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Newton

Sturminster Newton Guide Price £1,100,000

Guide £495,000

A beautifully renovated town house with level rear gardens, good parking and a live / work annexe with wc and kitchen. A short walk to the shops. Freehold.

Tucked away down a no through lane is this extended and very well presented 4 bedroom country home with stable yard & paddocks, in total 4.11 acres. CTB E.Freehold,

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sturminster

Blandford | 01258 452670

| 01258 473766

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Bryan

Cheriton

Guide £725,000

£400,000 An attractive, double-fronted 3-bedroom period property tucked away on

An attractive, double-fronted 3-bedroom period property tucked away on an idyllic country lane with character features throughout and views over the neighbouring countryside. CTB C. Freehold.

the neighbouring countryside. CTB C. Freehold.

A detached period house and converted former barn now offering spacious and flexible accommodation of over 3000 sq ft with outbuildings and large garden. About 0.67 acres. A further 3.54 acres available by separate negotiation. Freehold.

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Guide £395,000

A period single storey house of great charm and elegant rooms, sitting adjacent to St Mary’s & St James’ Church in this lovely rural village location. Freehold.

accommodation,

A tastefully improved 4-bedroom village house with light and spacious accommodation, set in attractive gardens and backing onto farmland. No onward chain. CTB F. Freehold.

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Nr

North

OIEO £400,000

Leigh OIEO £500,000

North Cheriton

set in attractive gardens and backing onto farmland. No onward chain. CTB F. Freehold.

Sturminster

Wonston, Hazelbury

Droop, Hazelbury Bryan

PROPERTY AUCTION

PPROPERTY AUCTIONS FRIDAY 25 OCTOBER 2024 & FRIDAY 15 NOVEMBER 2024 AT THE DIGBY CHURCH MEMORIAL HALL, SHERBORNE AT 2:00PM AND VIA LIVESTREAM

North Perrott Guide £45,000

3.01 acres (1.22 ha) of gently sloping pasture land with direct road access. Freehold.

Hilton Blandford | 01258 452670 Guide £10,000

Clayhindon

Guide £50,000

Witchampton Guide £50,000

0.17 acres (0.06 hectares) of garden/ amenity land with vehicular access and a range of broad leaf trees situated 2 miles from Milton Abbas. Freehold.

Yeovil | 01935 432526

Shaftesbury

Guide £150,000

0.19 acres of amenity land with scope for a range of uses (STPP/consents), adjoining residential properties. Freehold.

A traditional stone and flint barn with full planning permission for conversion to a dwelling, set in 1.29 acres in the Blackdown Hills with lovely views. Freehold.

Ilminster | 01460 200790

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Radstock

Guide £300,000

12.37 acres (5.00 hectares) of undulating pasture land enjoying an elevated position to the south west of Shaftesbury with far-reaching rural views. Freehold

Pallington Guide £350,000

29.15 acres of gently sloping pasture land with vehicular access, offered in two lots. Lot A 24.59 acres: £225,000. Lot B 4.56 acres: £75,000. Freehold.

38.42 acres (15.55 hectares) of fertile, workable arable land with good accessibility. Conveniently split into three workable parcels. The land has previously been used to grow salad crops and is understood to be very productive, more recently the land has been in a combinable crop rotation. This Autumn, the land has been drilled with a cover crop. Freehold.

Salisbury | 01722 334323

Dorchester | 01305 236237

Devizes | 01380 710535

Wimborne

Guide £295,000

Guide £300,000

Batcombe, Dorchester Guides £40,000 to £115,000

Blandford Forum

Guide £90,000

Verwood Guide £125,000

Bridport

Guide £125,000

A ground floor 2 bedroom property for refurbishment with parking and garden close to the town centre. Leasehold/ share of freehold (105 years remaining).

1.38 acres with a derelict barn in a residential location falling within the main urban development area on the Local Plan. Freehold.

Blandford | 01258 452670

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Guide £275,000

An end of terrace 2 bedroom cottage in need of renovation. A large lock-up garage (£7,500) and a single garage (£5,000) are available as separate lots. Freehold.

Winfrith Newburgh Guide £170,000 20.42 acres (8.26 ha) of level, productive permanent pasture land adjacent to Tadnoll and Winfrith Heath. Freehold.

Bridport | 01308 422313

Dorchester | 01305 236237

Dorchester

Guide £280,000

An exciting investment opportunity comprising 3 maisonettes and a commercial premises in a historical building in the heart of the town. Freehold.

| 01935 423526

Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

A charming 4 bedroom Grade II Listed townhouse situated within the heart of the county town with character features and a private, walled courtyard garden. Freehold.

Winterborne Houghton Guide £400,000 42.94 acres (17.38 ha) of productive arable land. Free draining loam soil over chalk, two road access points, a cattle handling race, outstanding views and private water supply. South east aspect suited to vines and solar. Freehold.

Dorchester | 01305 261008

Bruton

Shaftesbury Guide £95,000

20.70 acres (12.01 ha) tucked away in a quiet rural position in 3 lots.

Lot A – 15.02 ac arable capable pasture land with a gentle south facing slope£115,000

A Grade II Listed mixed-use property comprising a ground floor retail unit producing £11,495 p/a and a vacant 3 bedroom property with off-road parking and a garden. Freehold.

Lot B - 3.57 ac pasture and woodland including an old brick pumphouse - £40,000

Wimborne | 01202 843190

Lot C – 11.11 ac pasture and strip of woodland with stream frontage - £90,000 Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244

Wellington Tiverton | 01884 218911

Guide £395,000

Guide £450,000

Chilcompton Guide £195,000

An attractive 4 bedroom farmhouse in 2.64 acres with potential to create an annexe

A partially built 5 bedroom detached house, with double garage and gardens. PP was granted under application reference 2022/1683/FUL. Freehold.

and

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Wellington Tiverton | 01884 218911

Bayford, Wincanton

Hurcott Guide £200,000 A period detached cottage in need of general improvement throughout, set in spacious gardens of 0.21 acres (0.08 hectares). Freehold.

Iliminster | 01460 200790

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

A charming 1 bedroom property forming part of a Grade II* Listed building, ideal as a buy to let investment or bolthole. Leasehold with 50% share of freehold.

A rare opportunity to purchase a former farmyard measuring 2.00 acres and buildings with Class Q consent for three dwellings in a peaceful, rural setting. Freehold.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

A prime development opportunity (STPP) in a strategic location comprising a generous sized plot with buildings and a concrete yard area extending to 2.19 acres. Freehold. East Orchard Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766 Guide £350,000

Milborne Port Guide £150,000 An attractive period property for renovation enjoying a generous garden sitting on the outskirts of Milborne Port. Freehold.

A development site measuring 3.25 acres with full planning permission for a detached dwelling. In an elevated position close to the town centre. Freehold.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Sherborne | 01935 814488

Tarrant Gunville Guide £225,000-£250,000

Guide £575,000

A handsome 4 bedroom period house in need of restoration throughout with a detached former coach house and dairy buildings providing potential. Set within partwalled, mature gardens and grounds of 0.57 acres, conveniently located for nearby road and rail links. Freehold.

A detached 2 bedroom cottage for complete renovation, situated in this highly sought after village within Cranborne Chase. Freehold. Blandford | 01258 452670

Belchalwell Guide £250,000 A detached bungalow on a 0.30 acre plot for modernisation/replacement (STPP) with a positive pre application response for a 4 bedroom house. Freehold.

A former supported living HMO with 3-4 bedrooms with scope for conversion to 2 flats (STPP), or for use as a single dwelling. Situated close to the hospital. Freehold.

Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766

Poole Wimborne | 01202 843190

Shepton Mallet

Yeovil

surrounded by gardens

backing onto an amenity rich strip of woodland. Freehold.

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Almshouse plans ‘go down well’

RESIDENTS had the chance to check out plans for the Sherborne Almshouse during an open day.

Proposals for redevelopment of the property were on display, with visitors also having the chance to discuss the plans with trustees and Abbey officials.

Previously, a collaboration between the Almshouse and Abbey was announced, providing affordable accommodation and community facilities at the historic building.

That had come after the town was left shocked when it was announced tenants at the Almshouse had been evicted as the property struggled to survive financially.

The open day event was a chance for residents to see the plans and have their say.

Chair of the Almshouse

Trustees, Richard Hunt, said: “We were really pleased that so many people were able to join us at the open day to find out more about our vision for the future of the building and to share their views.

“We announced in September that the Almshouse will develop space to provide affordable independent living for locals and that the Abbey will create a traditional tearoom, support centre for young people and space for community projects.”

And he said the scheme had been well received by visitors on the day.

“After looking carefully at all the options, we remain confident that this exciting plan will benefit our community by providing much needed affordable accommodation; will benefit local young people by

providing a safe space to share and will benefit the town by returning our incredible building to the heart of community life,” he added.

“Local people liked the fact that the building will come alive again and be used, as it always has been, to provide affordable accommodation to people who need it.”

The message was echoed by the Rector of Sherborne Abbey,

Rev Martin Lee.

“The Almshouse has cared for local people for many years, and we are looking to continue that tradition,” he added.

“We hope that the town will support us in helping to make our vision a reality.”

The Almshouse is encouraging both donations and legacy giving. For more information, visit www. stjohnshouse.org

Jubilee Green is an exclusive collection of traditional 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes nestled on the River Stour.

Each home is carefully designed using high-quality materials to maximise space and natural light, providing the comfort of modern living, with spacious living areas and contemporary kitchens. Jubilee Green offers a peaceful and idyllic lifestyle in the charming village of Charlton Marshall for those seeking a retreat from the bustle of daily life, just minutes from the amenities of Blandford Forum and Wimborne.

St John’s Almshouse in Sherborne and (inset) chair of the Almshouse Trustees, Richard Hunt

An ecological unit set in beautiful grounds at a central Dorset location.

Enquiries: 07779 448 673

LUXURY APARTMENT

For sale in Motcombe, Shaftesbury for age 55+. Spacious accommodation, hall, cloaks, lounge/diner/ balcony, well fitted kitchen, 2 double bedrooms, 4-piece bathroom. Lovely views. Beautiful gardens. PRIVATE LIVING or communal lounge, dining room, coffee mornings, bar, games/ exercise room, hair salons. Please tel: (01747)229755.

Former care home on the market

A FORMER Wincanton care home is up for sale – at a guide price of under £500,000.

Carrington House, off Carrington Way in the town centre, is on the market with property firm Greenslade Taylor Hunt (GTH).

The agent said the 0.4-hectare site offered a range of development opportunities, subject to planning.

“Carrington House presents a rare opportunity to purchase a property in a prominent position, within the development limits of Wincanton,” a spokesperson said.

“It is within easy walking distance of a range of facilities and amenities that Wincanton

has to offer.

“It is also within reach of the Cranbrook Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the attractions of Stourhead, one of the National Trust’s much-loved West Country properties.”

The former care home was built in the 1970s and includes a conservatory-style extension to the ground and first floor. It is on the market at a guide price of £400,000 to £450,000, with offers invited on an unconditional basis.

For more information and to arrange a viewing, contact GTH on 01823 334466, or email graham.ford@gth.net, george. williams@gth.net or pippa. savage@gth.net

New showroom opening soon - 14-15 West Street, Farnham, GU9 7DN, Tel: 01252 423438 The Courtyard, Wilton Shopping Village, Wilton, SP2 0BH, Tel: 01722 433545

& REPAIR LEAKS FROM £150

FOAM REMOVAL FROM £995.00

If spray foam is fitted to your property it can mean that it may be unmortgageable, meaning when you come to sell your property the new owners may not be able to secure a mortgage due to the spray foam installed between your afters. If you have spray foam fitted in your roof, if left it can cause rafters and timbers to rot. The spray foam in your roof can be removed by our professional roofing team, rafters will be sanded down and wood filled and treated. Spray foam will be removed from your property and disposed of safely.

Dear homeowner, my name is Carl Morris and I am the sole owner of Worksmart Roofing & Building Ltd. My team and I are professional roofing contractors. I am a great believer in prevention is better than cure. So my team and I are offering a moss removal service which entails all moss removed and to re-point any defective cement works from ridge line and re-cement any broken gables, we always allow up to 15 broken or slipped tiles. What this offer ensures is an overall roof clean and minor repairs, all gutters and downpipes will be cleaned once the job is finished.This service is from as little as £295 and will 100% prevent you from having large roof repairs or roof replacment.