What’s inside this issue…
Paul Jones - Editor in Chief We love hearing your
and
Get in touch with us by emailing newsdesk@blackmorevale.net or calling 01963 400186
Kye Harman
Sports Editor sports@blackmorevale.net 01963 400186
Debi Thorne Sales Director Debi.thorne@blackmorevale.net 07714 289409
Jane Toomer Senior Account Manager Jane.toomer@blackmorevale.net 07714 289411
Lloyd Armishaw Publisher newsdesk@blackmorevale.net 01963 400186
Lorraine Drake Distributor lorraine_drake@icloud.com 07850 529937
Lynsey Swaine Account Manager lynsey.swaine@blackmorevale.net 07714 289416
Sound of the serpent returns to Dorset
THE serpent, a musical instrument invented in the 16th century, is the focus of two concerts being held in Dorset this Bank Holiday weekend.
The London Serpent Trio are performing in Dorchester and an international gathering of serpent players will take place in Stinsford.
1990 when 57 serpent players from all over the world gathered at St John’s Smith Square in London to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the instrument.
Since Christopher’s death, a band of enthusiastic players have met every two years, and after gatherings in South Carolina, Gloucester, Lacock, Cape
of supporting Tors.
Students conquer Ten Tors challenge
YOUNGSTERS from The Gryphon School in Sherborne and Sturminster Newton High School took part in the Ten Tors Challenge on Dartmoor on the hottest weekend of the year so far.
Teams from all over the country had to tackle 35-, 45- and 55-mile routes, visiting ten tors and camping overnight on the moor.
The Gryphon entered three teams for the 35-mile distance, one for 45 miles and one for 55 miles, and Sturminster Newton entered two teams for 35 miles and one for 45 miles.
Four Gryphon teams completed the challenge, but the 45-mile team did not finish because of the heat.
The Gryphon’s challenge leader, Geoff Cooke, said: “This is a huge achievement for all of these students – we are so proud of them all, for putting themselves forward, training through the winter months in all weather and then taking on arguably one of the hardest youth challenges in the world in the hottest Ten Tors Challenge in our 10 years of entering teams.”
The Gryphon’s headteacher, Jim Gower, said: “The Gryphon School community
is enormously proud of all our students, who participated in the Ten Tors challenge.
“The Ten Tors challenge is a key component of our Adventurous Training (AT) programme, which aims to develop students’ leadership, integrity, fellowship and exploration – all key characteristics and values that allow our students to flourish and fulfil their potential both now and in the future.
“My thanks go to Geoff Cooke, our AT manager, and his team of wonderfully committed volunteers, who provide our students with such a range of transformational opportunities through our AT programme.”
Donna London-Hill, executive headteacher at Sturminster Newton High School, said: “I am immensely proud of how wonderfully the students represented our school during this challenging event.
“Their determination, teamwork and perseverance were truly inspiring. Not only did they demonstrate their physical strength and endurance, but they also exhibited
A walk around…
Alton Pancras
Soak up the scenery as you walk with retired Dorset rights of way officer Chris Slade
THE village stretches for about half a mile alongside the beginning of the Piddle. A tributary joins it from a spring a little way behind the church, which is worth a visit. This walk is an anti-clockwise circuit of the countryside of the parish with some fantastic views in all directions, from the Vale to the north and the Purbecks to the south.
Start opposite the church and join the path that leads you uphill across the field to the millennium seat, which has a plaque listing all the parish residents in 2,000. Continue uphill, curving round to the north east when the hill’s less steep. Eventually you enter Watcombe Plain, which is access land across which you can wander. Turn left and follow the hedge northwards for half a mile until you meet the Wessex Ridgeway bridleway.
outstanding sportsmanship and camaraderie throughout the competition.”
Nigel Matthews who leads the training at Sturminster Newton High School students, was recognised at the event
Cream teas at the Mill
EVERYONE is invited to join the volunteers at Sturminster Newton Mill for a cream tea by the river, and tours of the historic mill, on Saturday, June 22.
Between 2pm and 4pm, cream teas, freshly baked scones and other homemade treats will be available to purchase and enjoy in the sun, or under the shade of the gazebos. The cream has very kindly been provided by Blackmore Vale Dairy.
Find out more about the Mill at sturminsternewton- museum.co.uk/ mill
Join the bridleway, turning left, and make your way westwards, downhill, then south west, to meet the road. Turn left then right, following the Ridgeway uphill across fields to the south west. After about a mile you meet the Old Sherborne Road, from which you can look down on Cerne Abbas. Turn left and head south along the road until you meet a path on your left which takes you easterly across fields and down Ripp’s Lane, passing New Barn, which doesn’t look new at all!
When you get to the bottom, just before the road is a small wildlife habitat nature reserve which is worth a visit, if only to use the seat and rest your weary limbs. It has a boardwalk on the edge of the Piddle, which is much larger there than upstream.
Back to the road, turn left and you’ll very soon be back where you started, having walked about six miles.
50 years young
A MEN’S keep fit group in Sherborne is celebrating 50 years in action.
Many of the members of Squat-thrust.com have been working up a sweat since the group’s inception. Their average age is 73, and while each claims to still perform as they did when the group first formed, these fabulously fit gentlemen do admit there might be an element of wishful thinking at work.
The group meets every Thursday night at the Gryphon School in Sherborne for an hour of circuit training, followed by an hour of volleyball as a warm down (although this can get a little competitive), then an hour – possibly longer – of rehydration at the Digby Tap.
Squat-thrust.com was set up by Alan Fall, head of PE at the old St Aldhelm’s School, as a way for friends and colleagues to keep fit. It was adopted by the
local council as an adult education course and taken over by the head of PE at The Gryphon School, Allan Martin, who still runs the sessions.
The evening’s exercise is based on what each person feels capable of doing, although Allan very much encourages full commitment!
A few years ago, it ceased to be a local authority course, so the members got together and started running the evenings themselves.
As well as helping its members to keep fit and mobile, the group has sparked various spin-offs, including a badminton group and a golfing association. Members also get together for meals out and walks.
It was on a walking weekend on Dartmoor that the rather unusual name for the group was chosen (a squat-thrust is one of the exercises they do, in case
you were wondering). Being sat in a pub at the time may have had something to do with that. Squat-thrust.com welcomes new members – especially if it drops their average age a bit. People in their 50s and 60s and even younger are very welcome, as long as they don’t show up the older members too much.
If you would like more information about the group,
“It would be great to feel that Squat-thrust.com can keep going for another 50 years,” said Dick, “although perhaps not with all the current membership, but they will certainly strive to be still going in the 2030s, just not quite so vigorously perhaps.”
County show coins in the cash for hospital emergency department
THE Dorset County Show has donated £10,000 to an appeal for the new Dorset County Hospital Emergency Department and Critical Care Unit.
The money will help pay for the provision of overnight accommodation for relatives of patients on the Critical Care Unit.
Nicki Ralph, chair of the show in 2023, said: “This cause is close to my heart, but it could be close to anyone’s.
“We all hope [neither] us, nor our loved ones, will ever need the Emergency Department and Critical Care Unit, but when we do, we are forever grateful.”
Dorset County Hospital Charity has commenced a £2.5 million appeal to enhance patient care and staff welfare in the new Emergency Department and Critical Care Unit.
Simon Pearson, head of
charity at Dorset County Hospital, said: “We’d like to express our sincere thanks to James, Nicki, the rest of the Dorset County Show and everyone involved in helping to achieve such a fantastic result for the appeal.
“This donation will be ringfenced to support the provision of relatives’ overnight accommodation on the Critical Care Unit and will make a huge difference to the experience of families visiting loved ones in the hospital.”
Mary-Jane Attwood, appeal officer, said: “We thank the Dorset County Show team and all their supporters for their generous donation to the appeal.
“We know that this reflects a huge amount of hard work and commitment over the last year.”
James Cox, show organiser, said: “We are so proud to have
Family Law Advice
Family Law Advice
raised such a significant amount for this vital cause.
“We organised numerous fundraising events in 2023, with the pinnacle being the County Show.
“The hospital expansion is vital to all in Dorset, we are pleased the County Show could
do its part to support.”
Information on the Emergency and Critical Care Appeal can be found at dchcharity.org.uk – Dorset County Hospital Charity.
The Dorset County Show returns on Saturday and Sunday, September 7-8, 2024.
Memory lane
We realise talking about divorce or separation is very personal and so we are offering virtual appointments by Zoom. As an alternative, we offer a one off FREE telephone appointment for initial advice on Wednesdays 9am – 1pm
We realise talking about divorce or separation is very personal and so we are offering appointments at our offices. For new clients seeking initial advice a FREE appointment can be booked on Wednesdays 9am – 1pm.
To book an appointment please call us on 01747 852377
To book an appointment please call us on 01747 852377
Offices in Shaftesbury – Sturminster Newton – Gillingham
NEW book Two Grow Up in Dorset promises to transport you back to simpler times, far removed from today’s fast-paced, digital world.
Cousins Jeanette Hardiman and Jackie Spiteri have brought together the best of their podcast ‘ramblings’, along with family photographs and archive images to create Two Grow Up in Dorset, reminiscing on life in the county in the 1960s and 70s.
Your local charity for all age-related information and advice
Befriending Welfare Advice
n North Dorset (Sturminster Newton) 01258 475582
Telephone Support Foot Clinic info@acnorthdorset.org.uk | www.acnorthdorset.org.uk
9.30 - 1.30pm
From school milk to Maypole dancing, mini skirts to Mini cars, their reminiscences cover a wide range of subjects such as pop music, television and film, food and fashion, shopping, school days, social life and cultural change.
The original podcasts and radio broadcasts were a relaxed, two-way discussion and the pair have attempted to reflect that chatty and informal style in the book while incorporating some humorous elements.
Although the cousins spent their childhoods in the neighbouring Dorset villages of Fontmell Magna and Compton Abbas, much of the content includes references to Shaftesbury and the social changes affecting many people in Great Britain in the 60s and 70s and will appeal to ‘baby boomers’ everywhere.
Two Grow Up in Dorset is available from Amazon, Gold Hill Museum, Folde of Shaftesbury and local outlets.
DJ Lola
AN 11-year-old schoolgirl so impressed judges with her DJ set at this year’s Street in the Park event in Dorchester that she won two categories in the Up & Coming DJ awards.
Lola Phillips, from Christchurch, started developing her DJ set nearly 18 months ago and has cut her teeth in battle of the band events in her school.
The winners of the Up & Coming DJ Competition were announced at Street in the Park where 10 DJs battled it out with their personal mixes.
After winning her prize, Lola, who attends Twynham School, said: “I’m so excited. Music for me is about feeling good. It took me three days to choose the tracks for this event. I’m so pleased with the outcome.”
Three of the winners, Lola, Champz and Bean, will be competing to become the Street in the Park 2024 champion at the We Out Here festival in Wimborne St Giles in August.
The event also featured a live rap performance created and performed by Weymouth College Music Tech students, inspired by recent workshops with local rap artist, Isaiah Dreads.
The annual Street in the Park event at Dorchester Borough Gardens showcases new and established DJs as part of the Up & Coming DJ competition.
Witnesses sought in A35 crash
A DRIVER was hurt after a crash on the A35 Puddletown Bypass on Saturday, May 18.
Police were called to the westbound carriageway of the route, near Tolpuddle, at around 1pm on May 18, after reports of a single-vehicle crash.
Emergency services attended and the driver was checked by the ambulance service, but did not require hospital treatment, said Sergeant Anneka Stone, of Dorchester police.
“We are carrying out enquiries into the circumstances of this incident and I am keen
to hear from anyone who witnessed the collision, or the manner of driving of the vehicle involved prior to it,” she said.
“I would also urge any motorists who were driving in the vicinity and have dashcam fitted to please review their footage from around the relevant timeframe to see if they have captured anything of relevance.”
Anyone with information about the crash should contact Dorset Police via www.dorset. police.uk, or by calling 101, quoting reference 55240074214.
Council seeks veterans’ stories
GILLINGHAM Town Council and Gillingham Rotary Club are marking the 80th anniversary of D-Day at Hardings Park.
The event, on Thursday, June 6, from 7pm, includes music played by Gillingham Imperial Silver Band and the Wessex Military Band, a drumhead service and a combined choir of students from Gillingham Secondary, and Gillingham, St Mary’s and Wyke primary schools.
It will also feature
Gillingham Army Cadet Force Parade and review by the High Sheriff of Dorset and the town’s mayor, and beacon lighting and reading of the International Tribute, written especially for the occasion.
The event is free to attend and everyone is welcome – and period costume and wearing of medals is encouraged.
Gillingham Town Council would also like to hear from anyone who is, or knows, a local D-Day veteran.
Beacons and bells
D-DAY will be commemorated at Blandford’s parish church of St Peter and St Paul from midday on Thursday, June 6. In the town centre there will be a flypast of Tigermoth Aircraft and the laying of flags by representatives of the 13 participating countries. At 6.30pm the tower captain and his team will ring the church bells.
At 9pm, 102-year-old Gordon Grenville-Hunt will light the beacon in Woodhouse Gardens.
On Saturday, June 8, the Blandford Royal British Legion in Church Lane will be hosting an Armed Forces Expo. Open from 10am to 1pm, it will showcase military organisations and charities.
Dancing shoes
THE villagers of Charlton Horethorne will be marking the 80th anniversary of D-Day with a dance at the village hall on June 8, from 6pm-11pm. Tickets cost £10 from the village shop, and include a mid-dance meal.
Pay your respects
WINCANTON and District Royal British Legion will be holding a short service of remembrance to recognise the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
The service will take place at the town’s outdoor war memorial in the grounds of Wincanton War Memorial Hall (BA9 9JF), on Thursday, June 6.
Those wishing to attend are asked to be at the memorial for 10.45am.
On Tuesday, June 25, the RBL will hold another short service of remembrance to mark the 80th anniversary of the crash of the US Bomber Old Faithful, which lost altitude on the edge of the town during WWII, killing all on board.
Those wishing to attend are asked to be at the war memorial for 10.30am to then walk to the memorial at Bayford view point or at the Bayford memorial for 10.45am.
Step back in time
by Sheila ChapmanNEARLY 80 years ago, the whole of the south of England was in lockdown as the Allies prepared for the biggest military invasion by sea the world had ever seen.
The first elements of this momentous undertaking left Tarrant Rushton airfield in Dorset on June 5, 1944.
Visitors to the Blandford Commemoration Group’s exhibition in the Pavilion at Woodhouse Gardens can see a superb display of models of these aircraft and gliders, and the Normandy Landing Beaches, next week.
The exhibition celebrates the brave men and machines which took part in this pivotal event in world history.
Visitors will also be able to see photos and maps which tell the story of a momentous few days in history.
The exhibition is free to enter and is open from Thursday evening June 6, and on Friday and Saturday, June 7 and 8.
D-Day
remembered
THE part Tarrant Rushton Airfield played in D-Day in 1944 will be marked in a special 80th anniversary event next weekend.
Royal Air Force, Glider Pilot Regiment and Army veterans, former Flight Refuelling staff, their families, friends and anyone with an affinity with the former airfield is invited to attend the commemoration.
It will begin with an inspection of ex-service and cadet standards and representatives of local nonuniformed youth, followed by a service of remembrance.
The event is on Saturday, June 1, and starts at 1pm at the memorial – access will be closed to vehicles after 12.30pm for safety reasons.
The airfield was built specifically for D-Day and was in operation between 1943-46.
It was used by the local Flight Refuelling company until 1980 before being returned to the landowners.
A memorial recognises a small glider force that left the night before D-Day, and operations on D-Day.
It was dedicated in 1982 and commemorations were held annually but, with veteran numbers declining, they have continued at five-year intervals in recent years.
Succeeding generations of veterans’ families and local people have been involved throughout this time.
Raising the roof (and the parapets)
Weldmar charity night
AMBERLEY Labels in Blandford is holding a charity night in aid Weldmar Hospicecare next week.
The event at the Old Powerhouse – Bryanston Club – will include a live auction, quiz, raffle and light buffet.
The event is on Friday, May 31, from 7.30pm.
For more information contact hazel.wilby@amberleylabels.com
THE parish church of St Andrew in Fontmell Magna is raising money for repairs to the north aisle parapets and pinnacles, and the south aisle roof.
The parochial church council has sufficient funds from grants and donations to give the green light to work starting, it is hoped, on the north aisle this summer.
Coffee mornings will be held weekly in the church on Friday until the end of September, running from 10am-noon.
The coffee mornings started on May 3, when 21 people attended, including ‘staff’, and £74 was raised in donations. For more information, including about other forthcoming fundraising events in 2024, contact churchwarden, Robert Wellen, at robertwellen@btinternet.com. A ‘Just Giving’ page can be found at www.justgiving.com/ crowdfunding/ fontmellmagnachurch
Save the date for church fete
THE church fete at St Nicholas, Child Okeford, will be held on Saturday, June 8 from 2pm until 4pm.
Come along and enjoy live organ recitals, Pimms, games, stalls, tea and cake.
If the weather is fine, you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful churchyard. If it’s wet, the fete will be held inside the church.
Historic garden opens to public
EDWARDSTOWE, possibly the oldest house in Shaftesbury, is opening its gardens in support of the National Garden Scheme (NGS) for the 10th consecutive year next weekend.
In that time, it has hosted nearly 2,000 visitors and raised £6,500 for charities such as Marie Curie, Macmillan Cancer Support, Carers Trust and Hospice UK.
The garden even opened during Covid-19 lockdown years of 2020-21 and made a modest contribution to support the nominated charities.
The garden has three main areas – the main lawn from the back of the house down to the southern boundary, bounded by two long herbaceous borders; herb and vegetable gardens down to the chickens; and a “woodland walk” on the western boundary that ends via an apiary in the
composting area.
Owners Mike and Louise Madgwick, who bought the house in 2011, describe the composting area as the “engine house of the garden”, as each year the garden produces up to 18 cubic metres of biomass that is composted down to be reused across the garden.
Acting as a break between the vegetable garden and the longer thin lawn is a magnificent line of bearded iris, including eight different varieties.
The entrance price has been maintained at £4 adults, children free, and wellbehaved dogs are welcome.
Old maps of the area suggest the house was originally three separate buildings with three or four yeoman-type garden/vegetable plots behind each cottage providing food
for the occupants.
Over the hundreds of years the buildings have stood, the separate cottages have been combined and added to, and this is most obvious from the back where the multiple roof profiles depict the differences.
In previous years, Mike and Louise have supported the Shaftesbury Archaeology group which dug two pits to see what it may discover but that did not include the fabled Shaftesbury lost gold!
But, as would be expected, lots of pottery fragments were found, mainly 18-19th century with a few items going back to the Middle Ages. Those items are now in Shaftesbury Museum.
A small selection of plants from the garden will be on sale at the open garden on Saturday and Sunday, June 1-2, and all proceeds go to NGS nominated charities.
Helpers needed at abbey museum and gardens
SHAFTESBURY Abbey Museum is seeking more volunteers to act as meet and greet stewards and to work in the shop. Outdoor stewards welcome visitors, answer queries, record comments or feedback and ensure that visitors enjoy their experience.
The shop team serve simple refreshments and operate the till.
Volunteers can offer as much time as
they like, from a couple of hours to a half or full day.
Most find it interesting to learn about the abbey’s story to engage with visitors and answer questions, but it is not necessary to be an expert in Medieval history.
Volunteers should be 18 or over and full training and support are given.
Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer should email manager@shaftesburyabbey.org.uk or call Penny-Jane Swift on 07988 908841.
Dorset
Drowners
THE Blackmore Vale Group of the Somerset and Dorset Family History Society, in association with the Sturminster Newton Heritage Trust, presents the Dorset Drowners – a talk by Paul Cheetham.
On Wednesday, June 19, at 7.30pm in the Bow Room, The Exchange (DT10 1FH), Paul will explain how water meadows were managed, along with healthy crops and farm animals, with special reference to the water meadows at Colber.
Entry £4, hot and cold drinks available at the bar.
Go off the beaten track with new guide
THE South Wilts Ramblers have just published their sixth walks booklet in four years, English Cathedrals and Beyond
It features walks from cathedrals all over England, including Salisbury.
The other booklets feature a variety of local walks based on a particular theme.
They are all available at the Salisbury Tourist Information Office, off the Market Place In Fish Row.
All proceeds from the sale of the booklets goes towards maintaining rights of way in the area.
Hidden gems
WORK is well under way in Stour Provost to prepare for the gardens open event on Saturday and Sunday, June 8 and 9.
This picturesque village, with links to William the Conqueror and outwardly little changed since medieval times, is looking forward to welcoming visitors to view around 12 gardens, visit stalls and enjoy cream teas and cakes in the village hall.
Several of the gardens in the village will be open for the first time in many years so even if you have been to previous open gardens events in
Stour Provost you’ll see something new.
This quiet village is tucked away just one mile south of the A30 at East Stour, beside the River Stour, often a surprise even to locals. This event will be the perfect opportunity to take a short walk around the village, which remained virtually untouched from the 15th Century until 1925.
You can visit the village’s micro museum, the 14th century church of St Michael and All Angels (which is Grade I listed) and the riverside mill listed in Domesday Book, with its weir and open views across the River Stour.
Gardens will be open from 2pm to 5pm; entry £6, children under 12 free.
A good night’s sleep is essential for your health and wellbeing – so choosing the right bed or mattress for your body is an important decision.
“On average you should consider changing your mattress every 8 to 10 years. Over ten years with an average of eight hours slumber each night, your mattress will have supported your body for nearly 30,000 hours, that’s an incredible amount for the pocket springs and upholstery to work through” so when its time to replace your old and worn out mattress there is no better place to go for expert advice and knowledge built up over nearly 60 years than The Bed Specialist in Yeovil. A third-generation family business in the town stocking many famous brands such as VISPRING, HYPNOS, DUNLOPILLO and more.
Whether you are looking for a stylish sleigh bed, a divan bed with extra storage or perhaps a sumptuous hand-made mattress, The Bed Specialist can help. Delivery and assembly is free, your old bed can be recycled – plus everything on offer is competitively priced with absolutely no gimmick sales.
They have lovely showrooms where you can browse over 40 beds, mattresses, and luxury bedding, get friendly and helpful advice, share a hot drink and spend as much time as your need to find the perfect new bed for your needs.
In addition, they also have an exclusive area of luxury lift and rise chairs by Sherborne Upholstery and reclining adjustable beds in many options available VAT free*.
“Our fabulous new website has opened so many opportunities to educate and provide even more advice on a whole range of our products. We recently launched our new guides and advice portal where we regularly update customers on everything from coping with sleep apnoea, how to maintain and look after our pillows to mattress comfort guides and advice on all types of bedding. Ask our team about this exciting new service.”
Find them at 106 Huish opposite the Yeovil Mail Sorting Office – ample free parking right outside the door or pay and display parking just around the corner.
Visit their website for further details: www.thebedspecialist.co.uk or call 01935 423596 to book your personal appointment with their sleep experts.
Gardens galore
VISITORS from all over the south of England are expected when Witchampton opens its gardens to the public this Bank Holiday weekend.
Witchampton, four miles north of Wimborne, is one of Dorset’s bestpreserved villages and 19 of its gardens –grand, modest, formal, relaxed, riverside and hillside – are opening.
The event is on Sunday and Monday, May 26-27, 11am-5pm.
Homemade cakes and teas will be served at the village hall and stronger refreshments at Witchampton Club.
Daily live music and entertainment includes The Wimborne Brass Band, the Button Morris Ladies and the Witchampton Ukelele Orchestra, and two celebrated Witchampton artists are opening their studios as part of Dorset Art Weeks.
Fun for all the family is on offer with a children’s treasure hunt and a scarecrow trail.
A free shuttle will transport visitors around the village and, after the gardens close on Monday, May 27, the church will host a folk-rock concert by the Freeborn
Brothers at 6pm.
Garden visitors can obtain discounted tickets priced £8 – visit www.wegottickets. com/event/616113.
A £10 weekend ticket gives access to all the gardens – under 14s free – with free parking at BH21 5AG.
Proceeds from the event will go to village charities and activities.
For more information, phone Tim Read on 01258 840438 or email gardens@ witchampton.org
FASHIONS & LINGERIE
Camp fun
by Sue JeansMERE Guides and Mere & Tisbury
Brownies have been having a fun time at Wiltshire South Guide Centre at Berwick St James.
The Brownies embraced the upcoming Paris Olympics, making Olympic outfits from recycled materials, and staged a fashion show.
The Guides also saw a wonderful display of the Northern Lights.
From September 2024, Leweston School will offer the Equine Management BTEC in Sixth Form.
Equine Management provides two different options: BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate (equivalent to one A Level) or BTEC National Extended Diploma (equivalent to three A Levels). Both qualifications offer an engaging programme to students who want a career in the equine sector as well as a range of higher education courses in equine management.
The school is delighted to welcome Sophie Underwood as the new teacher of the Equine Management BTEC course. Horses have been a constant thread throughout Sophie’s life. From a young age, she spent countless hours in the saddle, rising through the ranks of her Pony Club. Her dedication led her to compete at the Horse of the Year Show, winning the Prince Philip Cup and gain recognition for her riding skills with a nomination to ride for Great Britain.
After leaving university, Sophie pursued a career in journalism securing a scholarship to write for “Your Horse” magazine. This exciting opportunity opened doors, allowing her to collaborate
with renowned equestrian figures like Carl Hester and William Fox-Pitt. She further honed her skills by contributing to the development of “Your Horse Live,” a major event in the equestrian world.
18 years ago, she embarked on a path to become a teacher. Her journey has been diverse, encompassing teaching and leadership roles in New Zealand, consultancy work for the University of Auckland, and most recently, acting as the head of a school in Hampshire.
Sophie says “A thrilling chance has arisen to combine my lifelong love of horses with my dedication to education. Introducing the BTEC in Equine Management at Leweston is such an exciting opportunity, which will provide a valuable springboard for aspiring students into the equine industry. With purpose-built facilities, we can offer an authentic and relevant curriculum that equips them with the knowledge and skills to succeed in the field they love”.
If you would like to know more about an education at Leweston School, please contact their Admissions Team on 01963 211015 or admissions@leweston.dorset.sch.uk
Half-term high jinks
KEEP the children entertained with a range of activities on offer at National Trust properties around the Vale this half term…
Blooming paper crafts
Celebrate the beautiful flowers blooming in the gardens of Kingston Lacy by creating paper flower garlands and crowns.
This free craft activity, runs from May 27-31, 11am-3pm. All materials will be provided. Cash donations welcome. Booking not required.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/ kingston-lacy
Climb Hardy Monument
Climb the 120 steps to the top of the monument and enjoy breathtaking views across Dorset and beyond.
Hardy Monument will be open on Saturday and Sunday, June 1 and 2, from 10am-4pm.
Mini explorer trail
Pretend you are a young Vice-Admiral Thomas Hardy and head out on an adventure. There are nine checkpoints on this waymarked, hour-long route, each with a brass rubbing and fun task to complete.
National Trust members can park for free at the Hardy Monument car park (charges apply for non-members). Booking not required
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/hardymonument
Bug hunt at Badbury Rings
From May 25 and June 1, pick up a net and a spotter card from the NT van in the car park and see what insects you can find. Record your findings to help with the conservation of the site.
This is a free, self-led activity running between 11am and 1pm. Last chance to pick up a bug net will be 12.45pm
There is a limited number of sweep nets and magnifying pots available so the event will be on a first-come, first-served basis. Booking not required.
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.
Showroom in Orchard Park Garden Centre, Gillingham SP8 5JG
Open Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm
Safeguard Your Hard-Earned Assets from 40% Inheritance Tax, Looming Care Fees, & Potential Family Disputes.
Inheritance Tax Planning: Are you concerned about losing 40% of your already taxed hard earned wealth to the government? Our bespoke legal strategies, meticulously crafted using trusts and wills, ensure your assets stay where they belong – in your family’s hands. Fully compliant with UK law, we shield your estate from the grasp of inheritance taxes, giving you peace of mind and financial security.
Care Fees Protection: With average care fees hitting £2,000 per week and typical stays ranging from 3 to 7 years, these expenses can quickly deplete most estates. Our custom-tailored solutions offer a lifeline. While many believe protection is impossible, we’ve developed a tailored legal strategy fully compliant with UK law to safeguard your assets, including protection against care fees.
Wills: Don’t leave your loved ones squabbling over vague wills! Oakwood Wills specializes in drafting crystal-clear documents that leave no room for ambiguity. No more family feuds. Just smooth, conflictfree asset distribution that honours your final wishes. Lasting Power Of Attorneys: Statistics don’t lie – the chances of incapacity rise with age. With our Lasting Power of Attorneys services, you can appoint trusted individuals to make financial and healthcare decisions on your behalf. No more court approvals, no more uncertainty in times of crises – just peace of mind knowing your interests are in safe hands.
For a complimentary consultation, reach out to Oakwood Wills.
Tel: 07832 331594 or Email: info@oakwoodwills.co.uk
Our loose Canon
Good things come in threes… Why the Holy Trinity is integral to Christianity
by Canon Eric WoodsTHIS week’s NBVM is published between two of the final great feasts of the Christian year: Pentecost (Whitsun) last Sunday and the Feast of the Holy and Undivided Trinity in two days’ time. And they are crucial to our understanding of Christianity.
You see, given that many of the great religions of the world (Judaism, Islam, etc) insist that God is One, and that’s it, it was always going to be rash for Christianity to say ‘Yes – but’. We live in a world which doesn’t like the ‘but’ bit. Too many people, of all faiths and none and of all political persuasions and none, like to have their thinking done for them. They don’t like the ‘Yes – but’. Well, in the words of the prophet – tough. There is nothing in the Bible about leaving your brains at the church door. So here’s a response to those who can’t be ‘bovvered’ to think about the Christian claim that God is indeed Three in One and One in Three.
dimensional building. Agreed?
Similarly, many of you reading this are simultaneously children, spouses (or partners) and parents. Your parents know, or knew, you as son or daughter. Your spouse knows, or knew, you as husband or wife. Your children know you as mum or dad. You are known in diverse ways by different people – but you are still one person. Each of those dimensions is integral to your identity, to who you are. Take any of them away – by death or divorce, for example – and you are diminished.
Let’s begin with our parish churches, of which Dorset has so many wonderful examples. They all have three dimensions. They have height and length and breadth. Take one away and you have nothing: the church falls down flat. You cannot have a two-
Or think of it like this. If a couple (of whatever gender) fall in love, for a time that love is allconsuming. But if it is to grow and flourish, it must – it simply must – overflow to other people. Otherwise it will become introspective, stale and ultimately toxic. Within God it is the same. The Father pours out his love to the Son. It is returned in full measure. But then it has to overflow to all of us in the Spirit.
Hence God is known in diverse ways at different times by different people. This is why Christians, uniquely, celebrate the Feast of the Holy and Undivided Trinity, because the Trinity is the heart of our Faith. We celebrate God the Father – the maker and creator of all. We celebrate God the Son – the Saviour of the world, our friend and our brother, the ‘human face’ of God. And we celebrate the Spirit – the life and activity of God within us. God over us, God with us and God in us. The dimensions of the One God. And our prayer today, and every day, should be that God will be over us, and with us, and in us, always.
Come see, hear, learn and make at Gillingham & Shaftesbury Spring Countryside Show
It’s all go at Turnpike Showground in Motcombe as the Spring Countryside Show comes to life. This two-day show on Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th June brings together a host of rural attractions for all the family to enjoy. Children up to the age of fifteen go free and advance adult tickets are available at £15 and on the gate at £17.
Incredible and crazy stunt clowns, dancing horses, racing pigs and heavy horses are just some of the star attractions to see. This year’s new look show also promises lots of interaction with a ‘Hands On’ marquee inviting visitors to have a go at a variety of craft skills. There’s a scarecrow competition for children, school groups and clubs. Create your own straw friends and bring them along to be displayed for all to see.
From making to learning, check out a line-up of fabulous free talks. Keen photographers won’t want to miss Saturday’s talk by world-renowned landscape photographer Charlie Waite, sharing his top tips on how to capture the beauty of Dorset’s landscape as well as exhibiting some of his wonderful pictures. Green fingered enthusiasts will dig the garden talks. On the Saturday,
Bonsai expert Geoff Hobson reveals the secrets of caring for these miniature tree marvels, whilst David Usher explores the history of gardening through his theme ‘Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue’.
On Sunday, the environment takes centre stage so come and learn all about plastic-free gardening and planting for wildlife. The Show is also delighted to welcome Paul Williams, founder of the incredible ‘Big Yellow Bus’. Hear about the inspiration for Dorset’s successful community gardening project.
Plus, free tractor trailer rides, sponsored by Friars Moor Livestock in Sturminster Newton, live music and Dorset food and drink. Visit www.springcountrysideshow.co.uk
8 & 9 June
Kids go free
THE COVENT GARDEN DANCE COMPANY returns to HATCH HOUSE this July for
BALLET UNDER THE STARS 2024
We invite you to come and join us in the beautiful 17th Century walled Dutch garden at Hatch House to enjoy a spectacular evening of ballet and dance. The garden is covered for the event to create a magical dinner theatre. The company of internationally acclaimed dancers will perform three 30 minute sections of dance, each section between a dining interval. The walled garden theatre seats 430 guests each night, at tables of 10 (up to 12). Smaller parties, as well as single ticket holders, can be catered for.
Stroll, pre-show, through the gardens with cocktails in hand from the Café Folle. Then, surrounded by the scents of summer flora, you will be invited to take your seat at your table to enjoy the evening’s performances within the ancient walled garden.
After the performances have ended you can return to Café Folle to enjoy the evening further with friends, wine and dancing until carriages at 1am.
This is an unmissable highlight of the summer calendar.
TICKETS
START at £185 and include a ree Course Dinner with Wine and all performances.
Gardens open at 5.30pm, performance finishes at 11:30pm.
Gardens close at 1am.
Fresh air and fun fitness
GET your weekend off to a healthy start –that’s the message from Shaftesbury Wellness, a free event being held outdoors on top of Castle Hill on Saturday mornings this summer.
Everyone is welcome, whether you have not done any type of exercise before, or are a keep fit enthusiast.
Qi Gong, which is like Tai Chi, is on offer in May. Gentle, easy-to-follow movement will bring a sense of calm and peace.
Jazzercize, running in June, is the ultimate dance workout, participants building up a sweat as they are guided through a dynamic cardio workout set to dance music.
Fun Fitness and Yoga are on offer on the last Saturday in June and through July.
Fun Fitness is a fun circuits session, in which participants are put through their paces with a good giggle along the way.
The Yoga practice is for all abilities with an intention to move, breathe and create a smile.
More than 1,100 spaces have been booked for this year’s Shaftesbury Wellness
event, but lots of spaces are still waiting to be filled.
Shaftesbury Wellness is made possible by Shaftesbury Town Council and supported by the Blackmore Vale Partnership.
To book a free space visit www. theyogawithin.co.uk/shaftesburywellness.
A
tasty treat for dad!
THE volunteer-run North Dorset Railway is holding a fundraiser on Father’s Day.
It will be offering celebratory afternoon teas in the railway carriage at Shillingstone station, overlooking the River Stour valley, on Sunday, June 16, at 2.30pm.
Finger sandwiches, scones, cakes and tea and coffee will be on offer. Teas, price £12, must be booked on 01258 860696 during opening hours, 10am-4pm, on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday.
Half-term heroes
YOUNGSTERS visiting The Tank Museum at Bovington during spring half-term next week can find out more about the machines used on D-Day 80 years ago.
Visitors to the award-winning attraction can learn about the event through a morse code machine activity, float a tank task, and interactive games and trails.
Head of Visitor Experience, Rosanna Dean, said: “D-Day was the largest military naval, air and land operation ever attempted, and this half-term we tell the story of the role of tanks and the crews at D-Day through an exciting programme of hands-on activities.”
Visitors can take part in tracked vehicle rides and see an explosive live tank display every weekday.
Children can let off steam in the museum’s soft play area and enjoy the outside tank themed adventure play area.
The
exhibitions.
has more than 300 armoured vehicles and
Independent school ‘outstanding’
THE Marchant Holliday School in North Cheriton, Templecombe, has been rated Outstanding by schools watchdog Ofsted.
The independent school, which had been rated Good at its previous inspection in 2020, teaches boys with Social, Emotional and Mental Health Needs (SEMH).
It had 50 pupils aged five to 12 at the time of the latest inspection in March.
Inspectors said: “Pupils thrive at Marchant Holliday School. Positive relationships, built on mutual respect and trust, help staff nurture pupils’ self-esteem, talents and interests.
“Skilled staff teach a highly personalised and ambitious curriculum to meet pupils’ special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) exceptionally well.”
The children told inspectors the school was a “happy” place. The report said: “Pupils describe the school as a happy and safe place that helps them learn.
It went on: “Pupils are eager to learn. They talk confidently about the wide range of opportunities available to them.
“They leave this school very well prepared for the next stage of their education.”
Inspectors praised the school’s behaviour and personal development curriculum as “exemplary”.
“When pupils join the school, they have often missed years of education,” they said.
“Therefore, pupils hold negative views of school and themselves.”
But they added: “Pupils reach the school’s very high
Shaftesbury: 01747 851 476 Longmead Industrial Estate, Shaftesbury SP7 8PL Warminster: 01985 219 200 5 George Street, Warminster BA12 8QA
expectations for pupils’ behaviour and attitudes.
“The number of times pupils need support to manage their emotions and behaviour decreases substantially over time.”
Headteacher, Sarah Sellick, said: “First and foremost, I wish to say a big thank you to our pupils, families and our dedicated staff team for all their hard work and support.
“We are extremely pleased with our Outstanding grade and are excited about our development plans.
“We look forward to a secure future and being able to support more pupils.”
Fossils fuel fascinating tales
LOCAL author Iain Dryden launches his new book at this June’s International Fossil Festival.
In a talk at Lyme’s Fossil Festival, Iain will explain that the title of his new book encapsulates the effect the Jurassic Coast has on those who visit.
It took Iain, an artist/writer, a year to create The Wonder Coast; the arduous task of capturing the area’s complexity did him the world of good.
In January last year, Iain was recovering from a series of seizures brought on by sever hospital-acquired infections.
Grateful to still be alive, he felt a challenge would lift his mood.
The coastline rippling between Poole Harbour and the mouth of the Exe River became his next project. Iain enjoyed sketching the topography and settlements. Back home he wrote about this formative landscape. Twelve
months on, his book is proof that, generally, we can lift our attention above our afflictions.
This joyful book relishes the area’s enchanted seascape in its entirety. It touches on those dinosaurs lurking in the cliffs and encounters some of the characters who discovered them. Surprising local detail, unexpected tales and remarkable characters enliven these illustrated pages.
The Wonder Coast shows us that even our simplest acts are important, that our tiniest choices can help to redress the balance between humanity’s activities and the world’s multiple ecosystems.
Iain will be joining other authors at the International Fossil Festival in Lyme Regis, on the weekend of June 8-9. At 11.30am on Sunday, June 9, you can hear Iain talk about The Wonder Coast at Lyme Regis Museum.
To find out more about the festival visit fossilfestival.com
FULL FIBRE BROADBAND HAS LANDED
High school reunion
STUDENTS at Sturminster Newton High School who left the school in 1980 are being invited to a reunion next month.
The former students, all aged around 60 now, were the first year group to stay until they were 16, as previous pupils transferred to Blandford School at 14.
The reunion is at The Fiddleford Inn on Saturday, June 15, from 6.30pm in the marquee.
Food will be available to order at the bar or just go along for a drink.
More details on the Facebook page “Sturminster Newton High School Leavers 1980 Reunion”.
Introducing Somerset Garden Water
Having relocated to the West Country a couple of months ago to join family, husband and wife team Nigel and Helen are bringing with them a unique offering for “All your garden water needs”
Established in the ‘home counties’ as Surrey Pools and Water, we are establishing another arm as Somerset Garden Water to serve the West Country.
A family run business, SPW (Surrey) will remain headed by the couple’s daughter and son in law, whilst bringing Nigel’s extensive experience within the domestic and commercial water industry to the South West.
Nigel is a member of ISPE the Institute of Swimming Pool Engineers and also a qualified electrician - offering a complete package.
As a small family run concern we offer tailored and bespoke solutions for all your garden water requirements.
Working on small or larger projects, we can assist the client direct or integrate with landscapers, architects and gardeners where needed.
With our extensive in house knowledge we are able to work with both Natural and Traditional swimming pools.
• Hot Tub & Swimming Pool
• Water Features/ Fountains
• Irrigation installation and maintenance
• Chemical Control
• Supply and installation filtration.
• Heat Pumps
• Lining Systems
• Coping Stones
• Pool Covers and Electrics
• All aspects of tiling
• Qualified Electrician
• Plumbing
• Checkatrade Approved - SPW
• Introductory Offer - Swimming Pool Spring Commission £ 119.00 including Chemicals**
• Hot Tub Commission - £ 89.00 including Chemicals
• **This offer is based on the first visit onlyany further visits for higher maintenance start ups will be charged at a normal service rate plus chemicals as required**
Summer Fair at Bryanston
The Wessex Event Company are delighted to be holding our 3rd Summer Fair in the beautiful house and grounds at Bryanston School on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th May this year
Bring the whole family for a fabulous day out, there is something for everyone.
After being inspired by the host of artisan foods, crafts, plants, garden furniture and accessories, why not chill out in our two Street Food Areas, where you can enjoy mid morning snacks, lunches and afternoon treats, including Pizzas, Bratwurst, Falafels, Dorset Lamb burgers, Hot Potatoes, Ice Cream, Churros and Crepes, all washed down with coffee, tea, soft drinks or something slightly stronger from the fairs Bar. While you sit and eat and relax you will be entertained by fabulous local artists including Emma Hardy, Max Elmore, Tom Carr, Shannon White, and Phil Smith.
NEW THIS YEAR
Climbing Tower, caving tunnel, Alpaca Walking and meet Disney Princesses and Superheroes
There will also be the ever popular flower arranging demonstrations, with the chance to win a beautiful flower arrangement, falconry and classic cars
There is so much for children to enjoy. Our children’s entertainments will include a bouncy castle, rides, games and face painting. We also have a Circus Skills Workshop, Magic Man, Sand Art and Craft Area on both days for children to participate in and learn some of magic of the circus.,
The cost of entry is just £4 for Adults, £3.50 for concessions, with children under 16 just £1, making this one of the most affordable, family friendly, value for money days out you will find in the area this summer.
So come early, stay late and enjoy a wonderful day out in the most beautiful of settings.
We would like to thank our sponsors Nationwide Home Innovations, Save Energy UK, Meyers Estate Agents Blandford, and Holt Recruitment for their support of our events.
Costume archive goes online
BLANDFORD Fashion Museum wants to hear from anyone who took part in or remembers seeing the original Cavalcade of Costume.
The Cavalcade was created by Mrs Betty Penny MBE. She travelled the UK with her historical costume show, which was to be the forerunner of the Blandford Fashion Museum (set up by Mrs Penny in 1996).
Mrs Penny and her entourage brought costumes to life on the Cavalcade catwalk, which toured the country from castles to local village halls. They even played to Royalty.
Mrs Penny’s Cavalcade raised over £500,000 (nearly £2 million in today’s money) for charity. She was awarded the MBE in recognition for her efforts.
With the support of Dorset Council’s Culture and Community Project Fund, Blandford Fashion Museum has
begun the digitisation of its Mrs Penny archive, which includes 35mm slides, VHS videos, newspaper articles and photographs.
The Museum hopes to put all this archive online to make it easy for anyone to access. Currently, however, it can be viewed at the Museum.
So, if you were once one of Mrs Penny’s models, remember being at one of the Cavalcade events or are just interested in local history please contact the Museum to arrange a viewing.
And it goes without saying, if you have any personal stories of the Cavalcade then the Museum would love to hear them!
Opera lovers
DON’T Put Your Daughter on the Stage is the title of a talk being given by Dr Francis Burroughs BEM to members of Dorchester Townswomen’s Guild next month.
Francis, who has had many years’ experience as a public speaker and been honoured for his work in the local community and with charities, has produced more than 100 operatic productions.
The talk, at Dorchester Community Church, Liscombe Street, Poundbury (DT1 3DF), on Monday, June 10, follows a short business meeting at 2pm.
Visitors are welcome, entry £3, and tea and coffee will be available. For more information, phone 01305 832857.
The Sherborne Castle Country Fair returns on Bank Holiday Monday
27th May.
Advertising Feature
Set in the beautiful grounds of Sherborne Castle in Dorset, this local, much-loved event appeals to all ages. With main ring attractions, dragon boat racing on the lake, dog competitions, silent auction, rural crafts, rare breeds show, music, funfair, vintage vehicles, food and shopping there is something for everyone.
The event is organised entirely by volunteers and last year it raised an amazing £63,000 for children’s charities in Dorset and Somerset. The Fair itself has raised over £1.35M since it was first started in 1996 and over the years has supported over 100 local children’s charities.
Headlining in the main ring this year is the 3SIXTY Bicycle Display Team, and Gui Godt, the accomplished horseman and stunt rider – with a comedy twist!
Elsewhere there is plenty to see, do, watch ……or simply sit and have a picnic in the beautiful Castle grounds.
Entry in advance is £15 for an adult, £4 for a child (www.sherbornecountryfair.com/tickets/) – and of course all money raised from ticket sales goes directly to the charities that the Fair supports. So visitors can enjoy a lovely day out whilst also supporting charitable youth work in the local area.
Sherborne Castle Country Fair &
Walking for wellness
CHARITY walker Dan Baker is stepping to it for Shaftesburybased the Brave and Determined Company – BadCo, for short.
He set off from Blandford on Wednesday this week and will arrive at his destination in Margate on Thursday next week.
His route takes him to Salisbury and Winchester, then via the Pilgrim’s Way and North Downs Way to Canterbury, before heading to the coast and
into Margate. BadCo provides early intervention support to individuals on the edge of suicide or serious self-harm, and £300 provides a six-session package to someone at severe risk.
To date, the charity has helped 115 people carve out a new life.
Donations can be made through Dan’s JustGiving page – found on his Facebook page,
“Dan Baker – Musician”, where he will provide updates on the progress of his walk.
Alternatively, text the word “Brave” to 70470, which automatically donates £5.
A monthly donation can also be made by texting the word “Bad” – followed by the desired figure in £ – to 70085. The charity can be found online at www.badco.uk
Dan did a walk to London two years ago which raised
Detectorists still going strong
about £5,500 for the Stars Appeal at Salisbury District Hospital.
TWO members of Stour Valley Search and Recovery Club are nearing the age of 90.
Bill Nicholls (88) and John Hinchcliffe (89) keep fit and active, mentally and physically, with this fascinating hobby.
Going out every week is also very social, with life-long friendships forged over the common interest of hunting for buried treasure.
Bill and John join the other members of the Club, rain or shine, every Saturday to see what they can find.
Both regularly dig up interesting items of historical interest, which they always declare to the County Finds Officer.
Both have a common interest in history, and the month’s finds are shown and discussed every month at a club meeting near Wimborne.
Stour Valley Search and Recovery Club is celebrating its 40th anniversary this May. New members are always welcome.
Pictures of finds, and more information, can be found on the club’s website www. stourvalleysearchandrecoveryclub.co.uk
THE site of The Greate Poole that lay in the middle of Enmore 400 years ago was discovered following research into the life of Sally King.
Now David Godden will give an illustrated talk, followed by a walk around the village, highlighting traces of its history.
The talk is at St John’s Church Hall, at the top of Church Hill in Enmore Green, on Wednesday, June 5, at 6pm.
Proceeds from the £5 admission charge will go to St John’s Church.
Steeped in three generations of history, Bakhtiyar has long been a respected leader in the Persian and Oriental hand-knotted carpet trade.
Advertising Feature
Headed by internationally renowned carpet expert Masoud Mazaheri-Asadi, he and his son Koroush continue to carve a new path for the industry.
Spend time with Bakhtiyar’s specialists and you will quickly discover their passion and love for the craftsmanship of the carpets they source. As an authoritative figure within the industry, Masoud is often invited to share his expertise and insider knowledge with media outlets such as the BBC to discuss the ever-changing market. He also advises auction houses, insurance firms and institutions to identify and value Persian rugs and carpets.
But we would be remise to say that is all we do, we carry out general carpet repairs for clients, whilst also working with many historic organisations to clean and restore carpets, bringing them back to life, in some cases removing 200 year old stains.
Our team of highly skilled cleaners and restorers, based in our London Warehouse, carry out repairs using the traditional knotting methods to fully restore rugs to their former glory, taking wool dated from the same period as the rug, to perfectly match the rest of the piece.
We invite you to explore our exhibition in the beautiful Mintern Barn at Luccombe Farm in Dorset.
Friday 7th to Sunday 9th of June 2024
Open 10.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. daily
Purchase from a large selection of hand woven Persian carpets, runners & kelims ranging from antique to modern pieces from internationally renowned Persian carpet specialist Masoud Mazaheri’s latest buying trip.
Persian food will be served daily with all proceeds raised being donated to the Alzheimer’s Society.
Directions: Approach the exhibition at Luccombe Farm from Winterborne Whitechurch (A354), using the signed Milton Abbas Road. Ample parking is available and Mintern Barn is wheelchair accessible.
YARD SALE, 10-2pm, Sunday 2nd June, Back Lane Sherborne DT9-3JE
OPEN GARDEN, SUNDAY
9TH JUNE, 11am-3pm. North Barrow. BA22-7LZ Adults £3 Children FREE. Refreshments, plants, produce. Proceeds towards Church Roof Repairs.
A FRIENDSHIP BEYOND BELIEF
William Barnes and Thomas Hardy by Canon Alan Amos 7th June at 7pm
CHILTHORNE DOMER
OPEN GARDENS
Sunday 2 June 11am-5pm
MARY GARDENS
SOLAR POWERED POP-UP
DJ totally retro Ecotainment! Suitable for any occasion 07554-477889
SATURDAY
CAR BOOT SALE FOR DORSET Mammal Group
charity. Monday 27th May, Pamphill Green, Wimborne BH21 4EE. 8am sellers, 9am buyers. Cars £5, car + trailer + vans £7. Refreshments available.
BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY 27TH MAY
Alweston Car Boot Sale, Monday 27th May. Sellers 7am, Buyers before 7.30am - £5, Buyers - by Donation. Info: 01963 23436
St. Andrew’s Church, Fontmell Magna
SHAFTESBURY EMPORIUM
SATURDAY 18 & 25 MAY Friday 24 May 9 - 4.30pm
Shaftesbury Town Hall
Admission £7 adult Refreshments. Vintage car rides. Proceeds to YDH breast cancer appeal
LYN’S BINGO at Marnhull
Royal British Legion on Monday 27th May
Eyes down 7pm
& SUNDAY
MILL SINGERS MALE VOICE
CHOIR @ Gillingham British Legion 25th May @ 8pm. FOC Event
AGE: 7+
Lots of lovely items for sale under one roof. Supporting Weldmar Hospice and Dorset Somerset Air Ambulance FREE ENTRY
SHERBORNE DIGBY HALL
MONTHLY MARKET
Saturday 1st June 10-3
Antiques, Arts, Crafts, Food & More Tel: 07717-454643
PUPPETRY WORKSHOP
VENUE: WOODHOUSE GARDENS
PAVILION BLANDFORD
CALL: 01258 920355
EMAIL:
2.00-6.00PM
days) Guide Dogs for both days) Guide Dogs by the Tilthe Barn
16TH JUNE 2024
CABINET MAKERS
WAREHOUSE CLEARANCE
Donations to prostate cancer. June 15th, 11:00 – 15:00, Wood, Tools, Books, etc, Unit 6 Sherborne business centre, Sherborne, DT9 3DP
11 5
BINGO!
Stalbridge
Thursday
Doors
40 64
GILLINGHAM HANDMADE PRESENTS, Crafts on the Meadow, Town Meadow Gillingham, Saturday 1st June, 10-3.30 Lots of lovely crafts and bits and bobs for sale
STOUR PROVOST OPEN GARDENS (SP8 5RZ)
Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th June 2pm - 5pm Stalls and refreshments Adults £6.00, under 12 free.
90
22
TURNWORTH DT11 0EE
Sunday 26 May 11-4:30.Teas; Plants; Bric-a-Brac; Craft; Music; Family fun; Gardens. Free entry/parking.
BLANDFORD HIDDEN GARDENS – SUNDAY 09 JUNE 2024
Blandford’s Hidden Gardens will be on display again on Sunday June 9th, when nearly 20 private gardens, large and small, in the Georgian town centre and outlying areas will be open to visitors in support of local and national charitable causes.
In the gardens of Georgian, Victorian and more modern houses you will find ponds, wildlife planting, World War II and natural defences, sometimes ancient and award-winning trees, artworks and ceramics, and a wide selection of shrubs, perennials, annuals and climateresilient plants.
Proceeds from ticket sales go to local charities chosen by the organisers, the Blandford Environmental Trust, and those opening their gardens raise funds for a cause of their choice by offering refreshments or plants for sale.
Last year over £2800 was raised bringing the total raised since the event was first held in 2008 to over £27,000.
Most of the gardens will be open to the public between 11am and 5pm on the day, and tickets giving details and allowing entry to them all are on sale from the Town Museum in the
in
Arts & Entertainment
Serenata trio in concert
GUITAR trio Serenata are making a special visit to St James’ Church, Shaftesbury, next month.
The stunning building, on the southern edge of the town and dating from the mid-12th century, makes an ideal setting for music with its superb acoustics.
Serenata will present a wide range of beautiful and melodic music by Mozart, Vivaldi, Schubert and Haydn, as well as pieces from Spain, Brazil, France and Paraguay.
The three highly experienced performers, John Mills, Wendy Partridge and Cobie Smit, were all former students at a range of top conservatoires, including The Royal Conservatory of the Hague, Royal College of Music and Royal Academy of Music, both in London.
John Mills also had classes in Spain with the legendary maestro Andres Segovia, and all
three have strong connections with celebrated international guitarist and lutenist Julian Bream, who for many decades lived only a few miles from Shaftesbury.
The performance, on Sunday, June 9, which begins at 3pm, will also be in remembrance of much-loved local musician Nick Crump, who passed away
in January.
Nick, as well as a performer, was also a composer, instrument maker and a passionate environmentalist.
For more information on the event, phone 01747 853088. Parking is available in the road next to the church, and admission is free, but donations are welcome.
YOUNGSTERS can learn about the role of tanks on D-Day in the Second World War at The Tank Museum at Bovington during half-term.
They can find out about the invasion at Normandy 80 years ago, with a morse code machine activity, float a tank task and interactive games and trails.
Head of visitor experience, Rosanna Dean, said: “D-Day was the largest military naval, air and land operation ever attempted.
“And this half-term we tell the story of the role of tanks and the crews at D-Day through an exciting programme of hands-on activities.”
Visitors can take part in tracked vehicle rides in the area and see an explosive live tank display every weekday. Younger ones can enjoy the museum’s soft play area and the outside tank-themed adventure play area.
Arts & Entertainment
The life of Nye
THE life of the founder of the NHS, Nye Bevan, is the subject of Nye, a new play at the National Theatre starring Michael Sheen being screened at Shaftesbury Arts Centre.
The play opens with Bevan in bed and just returned from the operating theatre, having undergone surgery for a duodenal ulcer but found to have stomach cancer.
In a post-operative and morphine induced delirium he remembers past incidents in his life.
The stage is rapidly transformed from a hospital ward into a school room, library, meeting room, office, debating chamber and bar at different times.
Much of the story of the foundation of the NHS is told through short, powerful personal stories of those who could not afford care.
It also includes Bevan’s battles with the medical profession, Conservative party
and some in Labour’s own ranks over plans to nationalise more than 2,500 hospitals.
Jenny Lee, Bevan’s wife –the youngest MP in parliament when she was elected, and one of only five women – is often at his side.
The play, by Tim Price, ends
with a celebratory mention of the 1.3 million patient interactions that now take place each day in the NHS projected onto the stage curtains.
The play is screened on Saturday, May 25, at 7pm and tickets are available from the box office or the website.
Folk group harvest Newfoundland roots
RUM Ragged, a folk group from Newfoundland in Canada, are performing two concerts in Dorset as part of a wider UK tour.
The group has played at some of the world’s premier folk, celtic and roots venues and festivals, and recorded five award-winning studio albums.
They are said to combine a reverence for their roots and a creative, contemporary edge, and boast bouzouki, fiddle, bodhran, banjo, guitar and button accordion.
Honest, thought-provoking and humorous, Rum Ragged are performing with Dorset touring arts charity Artsreach.
Its director, Kerry Bartlett, said: “I was thrilled to discover this traditional folk group while
Sound of serpent at Shire Hall
THE London Serpent Trio are performing at the historic Shire Hall Museum in Dorchester tonight (Friday, May 24).
The trio are a unique ensemble founded by early instrument maker Christopher Monk, along with Alan Lumsden and Andrew van der Beek, who gave their first performance in 1976 in a lunchtime concert at St John’s Smith Square.
Their traditions are maintained by the three current members, Nicholas Perry, Andrew Kershaw and Philip Humphries.
Their repertoires includes classical favourites, popular songs, dance tunes and pieces specially composed for them.
The serpent is a low-pitched early wind instrument in the brass family developed in the Renaissance era, so has been in
existence over 400 years.
Tickets for this performance are £10 and can be purchased through Shire Hall Museum, online or at the museum.
Doors open at 6.45pm and a bar will be available to purchase refreshments, before the performance begins at 7.30pm.
For more information about the London Serpent Trio, visit shirehalldorset.org
in Newfoundland last September, and really enjoyed the way Rum Ragged celebrate their musical heritage – we’re looking forward to sharing their music with audiences in Dorset, which should have particular relevance given the rich history between our county and this Canadian island.”
Rum Ragged are at Drimpton village hall on Thursday, June 6, and Broadmayne village hall on Friday, June 7.
More information and tickets are available online at www. artsreach.co.uk
Politics
Our farmers need a fair deal
THIS week has been another busy one in Parliament, during which I spoke up on a variety of issues.
Last Monday I took part in a debate about forthcoming reductions on basic payments to farmers and raised the concerns of many in the farming community who find themselves under severe financial pressure. The Liberal Democrats want a fair deal for farmers, and I will continue to use my voice in Parliament to stand up for farmers across the country.
In the meantime, the Prime Minister continues to try to woo the farming community, suggesting he has “got their back”, but this is in stark contrast to the views of the new president of the National Farmers’ Union, who recently said that this Government is not providing enough long-term security to farmers to protect our food supply. This comes
Liberal Democrat MP for Somerton & Frome
Sarah Dykeafter an NFU survey showing that farmer confidence is at an all-time low.
One of the biggest threats to national food security is the loss of British farmers and agricultural businesses. There has been a steady downwards trend in the number of UK farms, with 110,000 closing their gates for good since 1990. I know how desperately
concerned farmers across Somerset are, especially as the effects of climate change continue to be felt.
Increased rain over the last few years, particularly this winter, has led to more persistent flooding, which costs farmers thousands of pounds in lost revenue as their fields are under water for much of the winter. When speaking to them, I hear their anguish. They tell me that they understand their farmland needs to be used as flood plains to protect towns and villages further down the river catchment, but they must be compensated for this, otherwise they will go out of business and another British farm will be lost, resulting in our national food security being put at further risk.
The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board and the Soil Association recently warned that many farmers are on the brink of
Think climate, not weather
LAST week I signed up as a supporter of the Climate and Nature Bill. As a prospective parliamentary candidate, I think it’s important to explain where I stand on climate change and restoring nature.
The bill itself was originally brought to parliament by Caroline Lucas of the Green Party around the time when COP26 was grabbing the headlines and somehow the world seemed a completely different place. The bill has changed a little, but the purpose and main provisions remain. Meanwhile, and you may well have noticed it, too, I have a strong hunch the Government is thinking short-term electoral thoughts and believes that climate change and nature are vote losers. Here in North Dorset, in this predominantly rural place, I think we take a different view. That’s why the recent delaying and dumping by
Gary Jackson, North Dorset
Liberal Democrats
the present Government of inconvenient policies its leaders have labelled “the green crap”, alarms me.
Equally, Labour has become shy about its previous commitments to green investment. Too ambitious for the near-term finances perhaps, but badly needed for the long-term and for economic
quitting because of the enormous financial and mental strain they are under. The Liberal Democrats want to back British farmers by putting an extra £1 billion into the farming budget, which would ensure they are properly rewarded and supported in making the transition to environmentally sustainable farming.
I also spoke up in a debate about changes to the state pension age for women, outlining the emotional burden affecting millions of women across the country. The Government must immediately confirm that it will honour the ombudsman’s recommendations and put forward a proper plan to compensate all of the women impacted.
As always, if there is anything I can do to assist you, please do not hesitate to get in touch at sarah.dyke.mp@ parliament.uk
growth.
Of course, plans should adapt to the current situation, but strategic consistency is key. We are all facing economic difficulties now, but better economic strategy and leadership will change that.
The UK’s short-term financial problems are like the weather. The weather changes a lot in a short time, even if it feels like the UK’s current economic storms have lasted too long, whereas climate should change more slowly over much longer periods.
Climate, nature and the shape of our economy are strategic, but weather and short-term finances are just tactical. For now, we can put up with bad weather, but it’s the climate and the effect we are having on nature that really govern our fate.
For far too long we have put off what’s important for what’s
urgent because we believe tomorrow will look and feel almost exactly like today. Climate change and erosion of nature are long-term, but they are now both important and urgent.
The next decade will be crucial. This Government’s policy is unstable and missing the long-term point, so we do need the Climate and Nature Bill. We should not lower the priority of climate and nature but keep making the essential changes needed in these hard times, even if that means making hard decisions elsewhere.
That is why I am supporting the bill. It is positive, realistic and practical. It will hold government’s feet to the fire and force it to confront the reality. The bill is directly relevant to the challenge to climate and nature. Please express your support, too.
Lib Dem-Greens an unholy alliance
MY public service ethos is motivated by many things. One of them is to work alongside any and all who can have an influence on the outcomes for the people of North Dorset. It was in that spirit that, following the recent local elections to Dorset Council, I wrote to the new council Leader, Nick Ireland (Lib Dem). I pledged, that while I had hoped for a different electoral outcome, to work alongside him for the benefit of my constituents. Since then, I have become rather concerned about two issues and I firmly believe that you should be, too.
The vast majority of the electoral wards of North Dorset returned Conservative councillors – thank you again for supporting them – and five Lib Dems were elected alongside them. Notwithstanding this fact, North Dorset has been cut out of
Conservative MP for North Dorset
Simon Hoare
the ruling cabinet. With the Lib Dems securing an overall working majority of two over all other parties I was not expecting any Tories to be invited to serve. What I was definitely not expecting was:
1 – The council being run by a Lib Dem-Green coalition. With only four Green councillors – none coming from the North – this was a surprise. Does it speak to rewarding their
rather secret electoral pact where Greens and Lib Dems bartered seats and your votes to massage each others’ egos at the local elections? The local government equivalent of Judas’s Thirty Pieces of Silver? More sinisterly, does it speak to a Faustian Pact for the general election – arrogant politicians depriving you of a chance to vote for your preferred party? We have to conclude that it does, there being no other reason or justification for it. And, for Greens in local government, do look at the lamentable services in Brighton.
2 – Not a single North Dorset Lib Dem councillor being in the cabinet means that your needs are not being represented around the council cabinet table – the most senior and important committee of the council. Not a single one of those five deemed good enough, able enough to
serve to ensure a balanced geographical team across the county. How demeaning for each of those five to be overlooked and what volumes does it speak as to the where the attention of the council leadership will be – satisfying their Green bedfellows and trying to focus away from the North. This is shameful. We will not let them get away with it. Therefore, I want you to rest assured that your Conservative councillors and I will be ceaseless and unrelenting in speaking up for North Dorset to ensure that your needs are recognised and delivered upon. We will work as an effective and unified team to deliver for you, your families and our communities. Other parties may think North Dorset unimportant or can be overlooked. I know otherwise. We will continue to serve you.
Concerns over stroke unit decision
OVER the past few months, I’ve been closely scrutinising Somerset NHS Integrated Care Board’s (ICB’s) plans to remove the hyper-acute stroke unit (HASU) at Yeovil Hospital. It is not well understood that almost 25% of patients at Yeovil Hospital come from Dorset, mostly West Dorset. And I find it incredible that the Somerset ICB basically forgot about Dorset patients through its “consultation” process.
The community are not accepting of the trust’s decision, especially those vliving in West Dorset who look to Yeovil District Hospital for healthcare provision. NHS Somerset ICB maintains that patients will be seen at a new stroke facility in Taunton – but I don’t think that will be the case, in the main. Patients from Yeovil and the surrounding areas will be going to Dorchester.
Today, the most poorly stroke patients will ultimately go to Bristol – just over an hour’s
Conservative MP for West Dorset
Chris Loderdrive away. But it appears that, in the future, that this will be Southampton. This is one of many reasons why I’m scrutinising this decision by the ICB, and I will continue to do so with a mission to make it better for local people. I shall be in Frome later today (Thursday) to discuss this with them again. Should you like to share your views on this with me, please do get in touch.
I was pleased to welcome the Health Secretary, Victoria Atkins, to West Dorset last week when I was able to raise the difficulties we are facing with stroke services in Yeovil.
But the visit included first meeting staff at the Outpatient Assessment Centre in Dorchester, followed by an on-site overview of the ground works to progress Dorset County Hospital’s expansion, which I’m delighted to support. These works are part of more than £100 million of investment from the Department for Health and Social Care as part of the New Hospitals Programme.
It’s a sizeable investment for our county town’s hospital, which serves more than 300,000 patients across the west of the county. Once completed, the works will see a new Emergency Department and Critical Care Unit, with increased capacity for patients and staff. The main contractor, Tilbury Douglas, is advancing apace and I look
forward to seeing the main construction work begin shortly.
I’m pleased to announce that the Animal Welfare (Livestock Exports) Bill completed its final passage in the House of Lords last week and is expected to receive Royal Assent and become law shortly. The Bill will ban the export of live animals for slaughter and fattening from Great Britain, ending unnecessary stress, exhaustion and injury on long journeys. Since I was elected in 2019, I’ve persistently campaigned for a permanent ban to prevent any future live animal exports. It’s a cruel practice, and I’m very glad that it will now be illegal to export live animals for slaughter and fattening from Great Britain.
In 2020, I spoke in Parliament to urge other members to ban the practice of live animal exports. Now that the Bill will become law imminently, I am turning my attention to another piece of animal welfare legislation to tackle animal worrying.
Green voice welcome on council
AS a species, our inherently social nature is one of our greatest strengths, and undoubtedly contributed hugely to our rise to total dominance in the natural world. Paradoxically, in the form of tribalism, it can also be a great weakness, and one that will be our downfall if we don’t address it. The problem arises when our tribal instincts kick in and we split into rival groups, focussing on competing rather than cooperating with others.
As humanity faces its greatest crisis ever, with the twinned disasters of the changing climate and the disintegrating natural world, it is now more important than ever before that we come together. Tragically, we are presently seeing an increasingly fragmented and aggressively confrontational political scene, both here in the UK and
Ken Huggins on behalf of the Green Party in North Dorset
overseas. This is leading to confrontation and conflict that threatens to prevent us from cooperating and taking the collective actions that are so urgently needed.
The previous Dorset Council was totally dominated by the Conservatives. With only a very slim majority of councillors they seized all the executive positions for themselves, effectively shutting out all other parties. The
recent local elections have handed control of the council to the Liberal Democrats, with exactly the same slim majority as the Conservatives had previously.
I believe that all councillors, regardless of the party they represent, should be considered for executive positions in the council. True democracy lies in listening to all voices, and we need to utilise the best talents available in order to provide Dorset with what it needs to thrive.
With that in mind I was pleased to see that a Green Party councillor, Clare Sutton, has been installed as one of the portfolio holders in the new council. She will look after children’s services, education and skills, areas she is well suited to work on and I wish her all the best with her endeavours.
Following the local elections, Dorset Council held its first full meeting for all councillors at its annual meeting on Thursday, May 16. A cheerful and colourful group of environmentally concerned citizens were there to welcome them as they arrived, to thank them for putting themselves forward to devote their time and energy to serving on the council, and to ask them to put nature and the environment at the heart of all their future decision making.
Before going into the annual meeting, the new Leader of the Council, Nick Ireland, addressed the group with a short speech in which he expressed his agreement with the principle of taking due account of the impact upon the environment in all the council’s decisions. We now need to see this ambition matched with action.
Bank of England needs to buck up
I WOULD not want to belittle Angela Rayner’s property and tax difficulties but do wish the media would focus more on policy than personality, particularly in the run-up to a general election.
My constituents are frankly more interested in when their mortgages are going to come down than the Labour deputy leader’s personal housing arrangements.
And on the mortgage front, I do so hope the Bank of England begins to cut rates next month as predicted.
Inflation is tumbling and, although better than forecast growth is giving the gloomsters and doomsters a good kicking, we need the sort of energy in the economy that the prospect of sustained interest rate cuts can deliver.
At the moment, the Bank of
Conservative MP for South West Wiltshire
Dr Andrew MurrisonEngland is looking like the problem rather than the solution. It needs to buck up.
We need attention to policy because at the moment all the polls are predicting a Labour government.
The public needs to know what the incumbent and the alternative will do for them, beyond not being the other lot.
After 14 years, any government carries biffs and scrapes from making tough choices.
Particularly this one given the long shadow of the pandemic.
And electoral gravity is a strong drag on incumbents with a cyclical temptation in many quarters to think that a change would be nice.
What I hope for is a sober examination of the promises and manifestos of the two contenders and an objective appraisal of what Sir Keir Starmer or Rishi Sunak in
Number 10 would mean for the UK economy and the jobs and public services that flow from it.
How will either candidate for the top job advance the UK’s interests in an uncertain, increasingly unsafe and ferociously competitive world?
What will life in this country feel like under either leader at the tail end of the decade when we will have the next opportunity to pass judgment on our political masters?
Trust and credibility plays into this too since election promises can be shed after the event by political leaders trying to manage competing equities and fractious memberships. There are two jobs in politics I would never aspire to – Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition!
Six pledges are Labour’s priorities
WE are now fully into the “phoney war” period with both main electoral protagonists firing their first salvos to announce their intentions.
Keir Starmer is continuing with his campaign to persuade the British electorate that the Labour Party is now a fit and proper outfit ready to take on governing the nation, with a team of safe handlers ready to take over the governing role once the general election is called and the result is announced.
It is, of course, very difficult in normal circumstances for a “government in waiting” to establish its leadership credentials.
But Sir Keir’s task has been made easier by the sheer ineptitude of this current moribund Tory Government and the resulting disillusionment of the electorate.
Witness the results of the recent local elections when Labour won exceptionally in most of the country.
Yet the announcement of the six pledges, or ‘first steps’ of Starmer’s planned administration, are held by some commentators as far too timid for what is required.
If Sir Keir had been more aggressive in his approach he would still have been attacked for being too reckless by the attack dogs of the Tory-inspired
press.
So what has been done is, I believe, the correct approach given the demoralised state of most British people who cannot wait for a fresh approach and an injection of new faces at the top of government.
Sir Keir Starmer will deliver just that.
As the summer progresses we will see this presentation as government in waiting happen more and more through to the general election.
All the six pledges are what is required to show, practically and tangibly, what a Labour government would prioritise.
And crucially, what Labour is confident that it can deliver. They are:
n Cutting NHS waiting lists by providing 40,000 more appointments per week, financed by tackling tax avoidance and non-don loopholes.
n Launching a border security command to stop the gangs arranging small boat crossings
of the Channel.
n Sticking to tough spending rules to deliver economic stability.
n Setting up Great British Energy, a publicly-owned clean power energy company
n Providing more neighbourhood police officers to reduce antisocial behaviour and introduce new penalties for offenders.
n Recruiting 6,500 teachers, paid for through ending tax breaks for private schools.
These ‘first steps’ are just the starter course for what the electorate can expect from the next Labour administration. There will obviously be much more “meat on the bones” as the months progress.
Contrast Starmer with PM Rishi Sunak’s scaremongering relaunch the day before. It was so underwhelming that you either missed it, or forgot about it already.
I’ll do all readers a favour, and leave it in the recycling bin where it belongs.
Church
• Anglican High Mass at Wimborne St Giles: First Sunday of each month at 11am. BH21 5LZ.
• Blandford Methodist Church: Sundays – everyone is invited to services at 10.45am and to stay for refreshments. Thursdays – coffee and a chat from 10am-noon. Fridays –lunch club for the over-55s from noon at £5 per meal. Phone Joyce Wild on 07817 505543 to book. The church is anxious to offer help to all those in need – call church steward John Cornish on 07799 516735 or leave a message.
• Chalbury Church: Fourth Sunday of the month, 10.30am Holy Communion.
• Chatty Café Scheme: Pear Tree Café, Half Moon Street, Sherborne, Mondays 2-3.45pm. Look for the table with the yellow sign, stay for five minutes or longer if you enjoy chatting!
• Cheap Street Church, Sherborne: Sherborne School Friday lunchtime recitals: May 24, Instrumental and Vocal Soloists; June 7, Pianists; June 14, The Choral Scholars. All at 1.45pm. Free admission (unless otherwise stated). Taize service – half an hour of prayer, meditation and music on the second Sunday of the month at 6.30pm. Everyone welcome.
• Digby Memorial Church Hall: The revised date for the Annual Parochial Church Meeting for the Parish of Sherborne with Castleton and St Paul’s is Sunday, May 26, 4pm. The meeting is open to all parishioners but only those on the church electoral roll can vote.
• 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.
• Longburton Village Cafe: Held in the village church of St James, the cafe provides tea, coffee – free refills – and great cakes for just £2. Tuesdays, June 4 and 18, from 10.30am-noon.
• Two Rivers Benefice: Sunday, May 26 – 9.30am Communion at St Mary Church, Charlton Marshall; 9.30am Morning
Worship at St John The Baptist, Spetisbury; 11am Communion at All Saints, Langton Long; 11am Communion at St Mary’s Church, Tarrant Crawford.
Sunday, June 2 – 10.45am
Together Communion at St Mary’s Church, Tarrant Rushton. Sunday, June 9 –9.30am Communion at St Mary’s Church, Blandford St Mary; 11am Communion at All Saints, Langton Long; 11am Family Service at St Mary’s Church Tarrant Rushton. Sunday, June 16 – 9.30am Communion at St John The Baptist, Spetisbury; 9.30am Family Service at St Mary Church, Charlton Marshall; 11am Morning Worship at All Saints, Langton Long; 11am Communion at All Saints Church Tarrant Keynston. Sunday, June 23 – 9.30am Communion at St Mary Church, Charlton Marshall; 9.30am Morning Worship at St John The Baptist, Spetisbury; 11am BCP Communion at St Mary’s Church, Tarrant Crawford; 16.00 Songs of Praise at All Saints, Langton Long. Sunday, June 30 – 9.30am Said Communion at St Mary Church, Charlton Marshall; 10.45am Worship in the barn at South Farm, Spetisbury. Coffee and cake –Spetisbury 10am–11.30am first and third Monday each month; coffee and cake – Blandford St Mary 10am–11.30am June 20; coffee stop – Charlton Marshall Parish Centre 10.30am–12.30pm, Tuesday to Friday. Every Thursday, Morning Prayer by Zoom, 9am – contact Jane Griffin for more information.
• Lillington: All morning services at Lillington now begin at 9.30am.
• Misterton Flower Festival: St Leonard’s Church, Church Lane, Misterton. The Church Flower
Guild and the Ile Valley Flower Club present Around Our Town on Friday and Saturday, May 24-25, 10am-4pm, and Sunday, May 26, noon-4pm. Teas, produce stall and raffle funds for the village hall and church.
• Our Lady’s RC Church, Marnhull: Mass Sunday, 9am and 6pm.
• Shaftesbury Quakers (Society of Friends): Meets for one hour each Sunday from 10.30am at the Quaker Meeting House, Abbey Walk, Shaftesbury SP7 8BB.
• Sherborne Abbey: Monday to Saturday, 8.30am Morning Prayer; The Sepulchre Chapel. Mondays, 9am CW Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Tuesday, noon CW Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Wednesday, 10.30am Holy Communion with Homily; The Lady Chapel (alternates CW and BCP). Thursday, noon BCP Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. Friday, 9am Ecumenical Holy Communion; The Lady Chapel. First Friday of the month, 9am Requiem Holy Communion; The Sepulchre Chapel. Third Friday of the month, 11am Remembering the Fallen. Saturday, 9am CW Holy Communion; The Sepulchre Chapel.
• Sacred Heart, Tisbury, and All Saints’ Wardour Catholic Parish: Sunday Mass times –Sacred Heart, Tisbury 9am, coffee after Mass; All Saints’ Wardour 10.30am.
• Shapwick: Third Sunday of the month, 9.15am Holy Communion.
• Sherborne Quakers: Meet Sundays 10.30am in the Griffiths Room, Digby Memorial Church Hall. Everyone welcome. For more information, phone Nick on 07870 192599.
• Sherborne Abbey Mothers’ Union: The next meeting is on Friday, May 24, at 10am for 10.30am in the Griffiths Room, Digby Memorial Church Hall. Mothers’ Union activities –virtual babies and AFIA by Suzanne Waters, trustee and diocesan treasurer. Everyone welcome.
• Sherborne Abbey flower
team: Anyone interested in joining the team to arrange flowers in the abbey about once a month, should contact Barbara Fifield on 01935 813869 or email bafifield@hotmail.com
• St Benedict’s RC Church, Gillingham: Sunday, 11am.
• St Gregory’s, Marnhull: Sunday services 8am and 10am. Other services, visit www. stgregorysmarnhull.org.uk.
• St John’s Church, Enmore Green: Service every Sunday at 11.15am; parish communion on the first Sunday of the month; prayer services every other Sunday.
• St Luke’s Church, West Orchard (Shaftesbury Benefice) SP7 0LJ: Monthly services, June 9 and August 11, Morning Worship 11,15am. July 14 and September 8, Holy Communion 11.15am. Prayer and fellowship in the village church – everyone welcome. Enquiries, phone 01747 812365.
• St Mary’s, Motcombe: Evening worship (BCP) – every first Sunday 6pm; parish communion – every second and fourth Sunday 9.30am; evening worship – every third Sunday 6pm.
• St Mary’s, Sturminster Newton: First, third and fourth Sundays – 11am Holy Communion; second Sunday – 9.30am Morning Prayer; fifth Sunday – 11am Benefice Holy Communion; second and fourth Sundays – 6pm Evensong; Wednesdays – 10am Holy Communion.
• St Peter’s, Hinton St Mary: First, second and third Sundays, 9.30am Morning Prayer. Fourth Sunday, 9.30am Holy Communion.
• St Thomas’, Lydlinch: Second and fourth Sunday, 11am Holy Communion. Third Sunday, 6pm Evensong.
• West Camel Independent Methodists: Meeting at All Saints Church (BA22 7QB). Sunday services: May 19 and 26, 6pm, evening worship. June 2, 4pm – United “Sunday @ Four” with tea.
• Witchampton Church: Third Sunday of the month, 10.30am Holy Communion.
‘Greedy dentist’ undeserved insult
I WOULD like to respond to Robert Child’s letter about dental charges – New Blackmore Vale, May 10.
He says his routine examination is carried out annually, which means the £49 he was charged works out at less than £1 a week, surely an insignificant proportion of essential living costs for anyone.
Similar reasoning would apply to the cost of any subsequent treatment found to be necessary, and the cost of this would be spread over however many years the fillings etc last, which would not be a lot per annum.
Extrapolating the £49 cost to a labour rate of £490 an hour is not reasonable, as the fee covers business expenses such as essential staff, premises and medical equipment etc.
In other words, there is an overhead element in the fees charged.
There is also downtime between patients to allow cleaning and sterilising to be carried out, so this has to be factored in.
There are reasons why so many dentists are offering only private appointments, reasons which appear elsewhere in the media, and having read about some of the problems that are encountered when attempting to provide NHS dentistry services, I understand the current situation.
To call the dental profession “greedy” is an undeserved insult.
I am happy to pay my –private – dentist’s fees, even though I am a pensioner, and I too have helped fund the NHS for many working years.
Mrs Jo Gopsill MorcombeQuestions over counting carbon
ACCORDING to Simon Hoare
– New Blackmore Vale, May 10
– the UK has 73 trade deals and
is the world’s fourth largest exporter.
I appreciate that most activities are reduced to the apparently all-important numbers – for example, tick-boxes in schools and nursing homes, company accounts, employment rates, each of us now being an “economic unit” – but sometimes it’s necessary to look behind the numbers to see what’s really going on.
When it comes to overseas trade, while some of this might be in the service sector, much of it involves physical products being transported around the world.
Is any government department responsible for calculating the carbon cost of transport by land, sea and air, or is finance the only measure considered important?
I also wonder if the oft-made claim that the UK is one of the best-performing carbonreducing countries can be made only because the carbon cost of all our imported products is allocated to the source country and not included in our calculations.
If we are serious about carbon reduction, we need to look behind the economic headlines.
Colin Marsh GillinghamThanks for putting your trust in me
I WANTED to pass on my heartfelt thanks to everyone who came out to vote on May 2 – no matter who you voted for, your vote counted and was appreciated.
I am conscious that most people did not choose to use their vote, and I know there is huge dissatisfaction with the way government works.
I also know that some people, having never voted, are not sure how to vote or what to do and simply lack the confidence to go into a polling
station.
We need to do more collectively to engage, to show that locally, whether people like it or not, everything has to do with politics in one way or another.
Whether it is fixing the roads, collecting bins, needing a care assessment or getting a good education for your child – everything comes down to politics.
Good people are always needed to get involved and stand for the town or county in elections – we only do so as we want to make that difference, to make something work better.
The journey along the way is not always kind to us but that is simply par the course.
A lot of good work has been done locally in Dorset – much of it goes unseen delivering about 450 services to 380,000 people – but I was so pleased to be voted back in for another five-year term, albeit this time in opposition as the Lib Dem Party has the majority.
Our Conservative administration has left the council in good shape – with a balanced budget, healthy reserves, and without cutting any services.
With careful management this should continue, but we plan to be a robust opposition to ensure Dorset stays that way, unlike our neighbouring authorities who are facing the most challenging of times.
Thank you again to those who put their trust in me – if you need help, or anything sorting, simply give me a call.
Councillor Carole Jones Sturminster Ward for Dorset CouncilDental care and council tax
TWO letters in the New Blackmore Vale of May 10 inspired me to write.
Firstly, Robert Child’s sad experience of the NHS dental service illustrates the gradual
and wilful destruction of what was once an excellent service.
And it really cannot be overlooked that the most exotic private dentistry is quite affordable on an MP’s salary of £91,346.
Robin Legg’s letter referenced increases in Sherborne Town and Dorset’s council taxes.
It was curious that the local administration avoided mentioning its whopping 9.6% precept increase, preferring to divert attention by quoting a modest monthly figure instead (Sherborne Times, March 2024).
The combined taxes however, including those of the towns, county and other bodies, give Dorset the third most expensive council tax in the country – but is it the third best in the country?
When will our MPs address the 33-year-old, glaringly obvious faults with the valuation bands and government funding that makes council tax so appallingly unfair?
Clive Pallot Sherborne
‘Prayer ritual’ ban justified
I AGREE with Canon Woods – New Blackmore Vale, April 26 – that a community school should reflect the needs of the community, but I do not think he should feel uneasy over the decision of the High Court in defending the secular school, Michaela Wembley, for banning all forms of “prayer ritual” on its premises.
Children taking themselves off to pray, away from their friends, are perceived as “we are different” and those not partaking may even feel intimidated.
This does not help a multicultural society trying to get along together.
Sudoku 3D puzzle
Cryptic crossword
Place 1 to 9 once into every black-bordered 3x3 area as well as each of the 54 rows indicated by the coloured lines. Rows don’t cross the thick black lines.
Killer Sudoku Pro
Across
7 Table for writing in administrative department (6)
8 Janitor at work, one overlooked as hard worker? (6)
9 Smell, it’s said, in European river (4)
10 Most tiny shopping area in south east street (8)
Down
1 Dreary Greek character with Northern European (7)
2 Tolerate hair on face largely (4)
3 Lime’s squeezed over front of unappetizing breakfast food (6)
4 Layers manufactured at arts (6)
5 Vile drama showing dishonest dealing (4,4)
11 Sort that’s not wanted ensured bail curiously (11)
14 Ingredient in baking items ruled spongy possibly (6,5)
18 Doctor around city gets English award in present time? (8)
19 Clan ready to accept power (4)
20 Maintain persistently organized sit-ins (6)
21 Lorry carrying carbon that’s very cold (6)
Killer Sudoku Pro Place numbers 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and bold-lined 3x3 box. No digit may be repeated in any dash-lined cage, and all the digits in any cage must add up to the value shown in that cage.
6 Light wood turning up a flat stone (5)
12 Cite rose that’s cultivated as mysterious
13 One to blame pair on island in sect (7)
15 Consider European book in appointed time
16 Northern manor is renovated for one in royal house? (6)
17 Writer nearly ignoring aristocrat? A small bit (5)
19 Dismiss bed (4)
Great stuff for the garden
SUMMER is seemingly on its way and people are thinking about their gardens.
Acreman St Auctioneers & Valuers Sherborne is holding a 150-lot auction of Garden & Architectural items on Thursday, May 30, at 10am. Included will be garden tables and chairs, benches, garden figures, pots, planters and urns, a lead pond and water feature etc.
The General Antiques & Collectors Auction on May 30 from noon includes in the Oriental section a one-owner collection of 22 antique blue and white ceramic vessels brought back from China in the 1970s, a small collection of antique Chinese and Japanese bronze censors and Bonsai planters, and a small collection of antique Chinese textiles.
On Friday, May 31, the Jewellery, Silver & Watches auction of about 350 lots includes 50 lots being sold on behalf of the Yeovil Hospital New Breast Cancer Unit. Viewing is on Wednesday, May 29, 10am-4pm. The catalogue and bidding are available through Easyliveauction.com and Thesaleroom.com and Auctionet.com for timed auctions.
Acreman is now accepting consignments for its upcoming sales – to make an enquiry, phone Gill Norman on 07908 333577 or 01935 508764, or email auction@acremanstreet antiques.co.uk.
Valuation days are held every Wednesday from 10am-4pm at Acreman Auctioneers & Valuers, 121 Acreman Street, Sherborne, DT9 3PH.
1905 car looking for a new home
A 1905 De Dion-Bouton is being sold in the Charterhouse Classic & Vintage car auction being held at the Haynes Motor Museum on Thursday, June 27.
“Amazingly, this little car has only had four owners in its 119 years,” said Richard Bromell, from Charterhouse. “A rare survivor from early motoring, this will grace any garage or collection.”
The De Dion-Bouton, powered by a single cylinder 942cc engine, has been enjoyed by all four owners.
In 1994 it completed the John O’Groats to Lands End Rally, in 2000 the 1,000-Mile Trial Centenary Run and in 2005 the London to Brighton Run by invitation.
Charterhouse is now accepting further entries for its busy programme of specialist
De Dion-Bouton, with just four owners fro new, estimated at £22,000-25,000
auctions, including Classic Motorcycles on June 6, Classic Cars on June 27, Mid-Century & Decorative Arts on July 4 and then Pictures, Maps & Books on July 5.
Richard Bromell and the Charterhouse team can be contacted for specialist advice and valuations at the Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne, 01935 812277 or via rb@ charterhouse-auction.com.
Rolex could make £6,000 at auction
DUKE’S Auctioneers is staging a Fine Jewellery, Watches, Accessories, Wines and Spirits auction next month.
The auction offers a curated collection of exceptional variety, including treasures for long-time jewellery collectors and first-time buyers alike.
The sale begins with Fine Jewellery on Wednesday, June 12, followed by Watches, Accessories, Wines and Spirits on Thursday, June 13.
The five pillars of the auction, jewellery, watches, accessories, wines and spirits, are each marked by pieces of high quality and exceptional beauty.
A highlight among the watches is a Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust Gentleman’s Bi-metal Bracelet Watch, estimated at £4,000-£6,000.
This elegant watch is coming up for sale with Duke’s next month
Wreathed in gold and silver, this striking watch exudes elegance and prestige.
The piece is in excellent condition and is in its original box with papers and Rolex tag.
More jewellery, watches, accessories, wines and spirits in the upcoming auction can be found on Duke’s website at dukes-auctions.com
Silver achieves strong prices
CLARKE’S Auctions at Semley saw some items achieve extraordinary results at its latest sale.
A late 18th century Welsh primitive comb-back open armchair with solid elm seat sold to a private collector for £1,500 hammer and an 18ct gold medal ‘The Most Honourable Order of Bath –Civil Division’, retailed by Garrard, London, in 1860, fetched £1,000 hammer.
The silver section was particularly buoyant with a stunning Victorian four-piece tea set with elaborate engraved foliate decoration making over estimate when it sold for £1,300 hammer, and a George V silver
oval entrée dish and cover selling for £550 hammer.
But the surprising star of the auction was a beautifully illustrated botanical book entitled A Supplement to Elwes’ Monograph of the Genus Lilium, illustrated by Lillian Snelling and written by A Grove, printed in 1933.
It sold for £900 to a buyer who had been seeking the book for a while.
Clarke’s is taking entries for its Friday and Saturday, June 7 and 8, sales and all future sales.
Anyone with anything of interest, or who has any unusual items they may wish to sell, can visit Clarke’s or phone to arrange a home visit.
Richard Clarke offers free valuations on site Monday to Friday from 9am-5pm.
To arrange an appointment, or for enquires, phone Richard or Karen Marshall on 01747 855109 at the main offices on Kingsettle Business Park, Station Road, Semley, Shaftesbury SP7 9BU.
Auctioneers & Valuers
Antiques & Collectables Sale
Friday 7th and Saturday 8th June 2024
Viewing Wednesday 5th, ursday 6th and Friday 7th June from 9am to 5pm
Clarkes Auctions o er; free home visits and verbal valuations. Colour catalogue available at the-saleroom.com and easyliveauction.com
Clocks
Tel: (01935) 423233 Mobile: 07974 520545 bclocksunlimited@aol.com www.clocksunlimited.co.uk
t
Jewellery, Watches & Silver; 20th Century Pictures & Decorative Arts; and Antique Furniture & Objects.
Saturday 15th June
For
The New Blackmore Vale Magazine DEADLINES
Display ads must be booked by Wednesday the week prior to publication, with final copy submitted by the Friday.
Classified ads may be accepted after this, HOWEVER these will be subject to space.
PAST IMES
of Sherborne (near the Abbey)
Top prices paid for all types of model railway, die cast cars, early Action Man and Star Wars, Scalextric, Hornby, Dinky, Triang, Spot-On, Corgi, Subbuteo, Britains, Timpo plus plus plus Telephone: 01935 816072 Mobile: 07527 074343
BUSBY
Auctioneers & Valuers
Next sale: General Sale Thursday 6th June
Now accepting entries for the Fine Art & Antiques Jewellery & Silver Sale Thursday 18th July
Ins and outs of new IR35 rules
What is IR35 and why did it become such a problem for hiring clients and contractors? Will the new IR35 rules from April 6, 2024 make a difference?
IR35 Rules – often known as off payroll working rules – first appeared in April 2000 and are used to determine whether a contractor should be treated as an employee or self-employed for tax purposes.
Often seen as complicated and confusing, reforms introduced in April 2021 had the effect of making life harder for both the contractor, if they were seen as being inside IR35 – as they would be treated as employees and taxed as such – and for the hiring client who would then be liable for the contractor’s employment taxes. This problem is usually called double taxation.
The effect of this was that hiring clients reduced the number of contractors they
needed, while there was an increase in contractors looking to close their businesses down, either as solvent liquidations (MVLs) or creditors voluntary liquidations (CVLs), because their businesses were no longer viable or already insolvent. Further reforms, introduced by HMRC on April 6, 2024, will see HMRC automatically offset the taxes already paid by a contractor when issuing a
business with an IR35 bill. It is hoped that these changes could see more contractor roles appearing outside IR35, which would be of benefit to both hiring client businesses and contractors.
How this plays out only time will tell, but the consensus currently is that it will lead to more roles sitting outside IR35, and thus avoiding the double taxation
scenario.
Take a look at our website for the full story and how Insolvency Practitioners can help: https://www.antonybatty. com/ir35-changes-need-closeyour-company-insolvencypractitioner-london-as-a-result/ IR35 rules that affect contractor companies, particularly post the April 2021 reforms, are complex and have already meant closure for many companies. Our experience in the Antony Batty Bournemouth office is that more directors are considering closing as a result, notwithstanding the April 2024 reforms.
We are here to help and the sooner advice is sought the more options there are available.
Elaine Wilkins Antony Batty & Co Bournemouth office Email elaine@antonybatty.com
Phone: 07887 750222
Home & Garden
Wonderful wisteria is putting on a show
by Sally GregsonAT last, after months of rain and gloom, we can enjoy a glorious May. Everything has had enough moisture to produce the very best of flowers, and everywhere everything is bursting into blossom.
And this year the wisteria seems to be flowering especially generously. Older plants are smothered in bloom and even quite young wisterias are producing flower. They are notoriously slow, usually, to come into flower, but it does help to prune them twice a year.
A young plant growing away well will make long stems during the summer, and it is these that need to be cut back by about a half during July or August. Allow a few stems to climb a support and make a structure, but be careful not to wind these long, twisting uprights around a drainpipe. They get very fat and are
immovable once they have formed wood. The drainpipe may not be able to withstand its clasping snake for very long.
In the winter, reduce the tendrils to about two or three buds to form flowering spurs. The winter cut is in many ways more important than cutting them down during the growing
season in July. The following summer they will work out what they should be doing, and by winter even quite young plants will start to initiate flowers.
Intriguingly Japanese wisterias – W. floribunda – wind clockwise, and Chinese forms – W. sinensis – twist
anti-clockwise. It’s worth remembering when you’re wrestling with reluctant tendrils on a cold day.
The named cultivars are quite spectacular, and because they are propagated by grafting, they can seem expensive. But beware the seed-raised, cheaper alternatives. The flowers will not be as spectacular as the grafted, named varieties. And it will take several disappointing years to discover the mistake.
Invest in a fine W. floribunda ‘Yae-Kokuryu’, for example, with long racemes of scented, double flowers in shades of deep violet and lilac. Or buy a W. sinensis ‘Amethyst’ with crowds of mauve, perfumed flowers throughout the spring. And either will lend a rich, classy air to any sunny wall. Wisteria need the warmth of a south-facing house wall to flower well. And pruning should shorten the waiting time. And feed the young plant with rose fertiliser in spring to promote the formation of flower buds. Your wisteria will reward you with a jaw-dropping display.
A good year for tulips, but what now?
by Sally GregsonIT has been a good year for tulips in pots. The slow, cold spring has meant that they have continued in flower for an exceptionally long time. But now it’s time to take them out of their pots and replace them with summer flowers.
It can be quite a dilemma, whether to try to keep the bulbs for another season, or not. With most large-flowered hybrid tulips, the message is probably not. It’s easier to treat them like bedding plants and discard the bulbs every summer.
Sometimes the flowered bulbs remaining in the compost are big enough to flower another spring. In which case, if they are at least 2-3cm in diameter they may well flower if they are cleaned and stored dry over the summer in a netting bag hanging in the
garden shed or greenhouse.
Naughty little mice cannot get hold of the delicious bulbs for a midnight feast that way.
But smaller bulbils should be removed, cruelly stamped on with the heel of your boot and consigned to the compost heap. Unless you are going to start a bulb nursery, growing on small bulbs will only result in tulip fire and disappointment.
Pretty little species tulips are an exception, however – they are much tougher. Providing the ground is light and welldrained, they could be left in situ to flower another spring and with luck will naturalise.
The gardens at Great Dixter, in East Sussex, are famous for their tulip displays, and Fergus Garrett, the head gardener, has worked out which named tulip varieties reliably perennate –last from year to year. If you
Tulips in pots have continued in flower for a long time in a cold spring
dislike the whole, wasteful process of throwing away spent tulip bulbs, it would be worth spending a day there to see which are doing well.
The soil at Great Dixteer is not light and well-drained – it’s heavy and can be quite wet.
But the gardeners put on plenty of garden compost to help open up the clay, and they have worked out which tulips survive the conditions. And a day in late spring at Great Dixter needs no excuse. Enjoy the visit.
WANTED -
Dave buys all types of tools
Call 01935 428975
L.DAVIS AND SONS
Fencing, and garden design
Concrete bases, patios, gravel, garden clearance and much more. We also deliver compost, pots, bark, logs and other gardening products. 01458 241230 or 07950 261510
GARDEN AND PLANTING DESIGN. Wildlife gardens and meadows. Expert gardening, plant care and advice. Extensive plant knowledge. Call Stephen and Claire at Manyberries 01963 441454 www. manyberries.co.uk
GUTTERS CLEARED
• Windows,
• Fascias,
• Soffits,
• Gutters cleaned,
• Repairs,
LAWN MOWING AND HEDGE CUTTING SERVICES,
Shaftesbury-Blandford & local villages. Please call Trevor 07970 012130
07849 571742
ASBESTOS REMOVAL
Garages, Sheds, Lean to’s, Roofing and Cladding Collection and Dismantling BY Registered Hazardous Waste Carrier Call 07973 444620 or 01722 414478
Closeboard, panels & sheds supplied and fitted. Gates made to measure.
Sherborne Fencing Ltd Tel: 01935 814272 Mobile: 07814246332
• Free Estimates 07788-376752 For all your fencing and decking needs
Depot, Longcross, Zeals BA12 6LJ www.cgsurfacing.co.uk info@cgsurfacing.co.uk
Summer has finally arrived and at Lizzie Price Shading Solutions we can enhance your outdoor living areas with glass or polycarbonate roofed Verandas as well as folding arm motorised or manual Awnings.
They offer shaded areas on patios or to shade the sun’s rays from entering your home, substantially reducing solar gain. External roller blinds provide protection from the sun’s rays and are one of the most effective way of reducing solar gain into your home. Ideal on large windows and doors. Our huge range of internal blinds to provide shade, privacy, and blackout to your rooms.
We offer a complete professional service from our home visit to installation of your new Blinds, Plantation Shutters, Awnings, Verandas and so much more....
Visit our web site for more details by scanning the QR code or www.lizziepriceshadingsolutions.co.uk
For site survey and no obligation quotation contact us on enquiries@lizziepriceshadingsolutions.co.uk or phone 07879 992000
EX-DISPLAY SHEDS, Stables/field shelters, summerhouses, offices, workshops, agricultural 01935 891195 CLASSIFIED
DO YOU NEED HELP IN YOUR GARDEN? Lawn maintenance, seasonal clearance. Waste Removal License. Fully insured. Call Jim: 07723-808766
Place your classified advert today
HASKELL FENCING
All types of fencing supplied and fitted
We also have a mini-digger for hire
Blandford 07751 001515
01963 400186
M & A J LANDSCAPING,
Hard and Soft Landscaping, Natural stone walling, Concreting, Paving & Patios, Steps, Hand lay tarmac, Fencing, Tree & shrub removal, General garden clearance, 07399 521377, malcgin@hotmail.com
MAN WITH MICRO-DIGGER & 1.5ton digger, stump grinder, Garden clearance, patios, fencing, decking, landscaping, driveways 30+ years’ experience
Contact Ken 07882 441873 / 01963 32034
LANGTON NURSERIES (C W Abbott & Son) Bedding and Basket Plants, Peasticks and Bean Rods. Fruit 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
LES BENHAM
Garden Property Maintenance
All Hedge/tree work/rubbish clearance
Gravel Driveways/Pressure Washing Patio and Fencing Work
Fully Insured/Free Quotes 01258 458849/07788 907343
lesbenham@yahoo.co.uk / check a trade
Landscaping, Groundworks and Garden Maintenance, Specialists in Patios, Fencing, Driveways, Walling, Ponds, Turfing Free Quotations
amralphlandscaping@gmail.com www.ralphlandscaping.co.uk
Tel: 01747 631471 Mobile: 07921 637227
Home & Garden
SELF DRIVE DIGGER and Dumper Hire 01258 861647
DRYSTONE WALLING AND LANDSCAPING
www.yenstonewalling.co.uk 01963 371123
UPKEEP. PROPERTY & GARDENING MAINTENACE. Tel: 07725112160
TOOLS WANTED. Cash waiting. 01747 850474
CURTAINS AND BLINDS MADE TO MEASURE
Curtain alterations
Tel. Sue Marsh 01747 853680
OUTDOORS
TREES R US
WANTED. Wooden Garden Bench. Preferably Teak, Gillingham. Tel: 07773-146010
Get your garden ready for Summer. Trees, Hedges, Patios, Turf & Fencing call Peter 07976-667130
JAMES AYRES
DORSET TREE CARE
Specialist Tree Workers
All kinds of trees expertly felled, topped and pruned. Hedge cutting. All rubbish cleared. Licensed waster carrier. Fully insured. Tel: 01747 850129 Mob: 07951 284639
LAWN MOWING AND HEDGE CUTTING SERVICES, ShaftesburyBlandford & local villages. Please call Trevor 07970-012130
Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
FOR LARGE AREA HIGH/ LONG GRASS, mulching. call David: 07786-658708
ORGANIC MANURE from rescued animals, £1 per bag. 01725-552061 FOR MOWING, STRIMMING, HEDGE CUTTING, CHAINSAWING and general garden/estate maintenance. Call David: 07786-658708 WELL ROTTED MANURE £60.00 a transit load. Contact Roger on 07885 826396 or 01202 826502
LLAMA/ALPACA
Home & Garden
Kingsmere Surfacing are your Local
Kingsmere Surfacing are your Local Driveway Specialist Installation Company
Kingsmere Surfacing
Kingsmere Surfacing are a specialist driveway company working within Blackmore Vale Dorset, Wiltshire & Somerset. We can transform the look of your home, by laying a new surface to your driveway, giving a beautiful, eye catching and individual look.
STONE CARVING COURSE 17- 21 June
All ages, newcomers, old hands. See https://www.stone-carving.co.uk/#courses
PETER PORT UPHOLSTERY A Local Family Run
Business, Offering a wide range of services including foam cut to size. 15% off Medium Grey Foam
Only from 10th May til 31st May. 01747-228384 Peterportupholstery@googlemail.com
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
Kingsmere Surfacing are a specialist driveway company working within Dorset, Wiltshire & Somerset. We can transform the look of your home, by laying a new surface to your driveway, giving a beautiful, eye catching and individual look.
We
We offer a most attractive and versatile choice of surfaces for both classic contemporary driveways.
We offer a most attractive and versatile choice of surfaces for both classic and contemporary driveways.
Services offered include:
Services offered include:
We offer a most attractive and versatile choice of surfaces for both classic and contemporary driveways and specialise in fully SUDS permeable drainage surfaces.
Services offered include:
• Decorative Resin Bound & Bonded Aggregate
We offer a most attractive and versatile choice of surfaces for both classic and contemporary driveways.
• Decorative Resin Bound & Bonded Aggregate
• Decorative Resin Bound & Bonded Aggregate
• Block Paving
• Block Paving
• Block Paving
• Block Paving
• Natural Stone Patios & Paths
• Natural Stone Patios & Paths
• Natural Stone Patios & Paths • Tarmacadam
• Tarmacadam
• Tarmacadam
Decorative Resin Bound & Bonded Aggregate Block Paving Natural Stone Patios & Paths Tarmacadam Safety Rubber Playground Surfaces Drop Kerbs All Aspects of Landscaping Fencing Septic Tank Installation Services offered include:
• Natural Stone Patios & Paths • Tarmacadam
HOUSE CLEARANCE
Home & Garden
Companion planting
I TOUCHED upon companion planting in last month’s column and have been asked by a number of people to expand on the subject.
Companion planting is a technique that has been used for centuries. In fact, I suspect we are at the lowest ebb of its use, but times are about to change. The reason is that the chemical revolution for the amateur gardener has run its course due to legislation and a lack of financial return in the gardening market for agrochemical manufacturers.
This and the desire for many gardeners to use as few chemicals as possible has meant other techniques for the control of pests and diseases are being used more often.
Companion planting is the putting together of plants or crops that either confer a benefit upon each other or where one provides a boost to the other.
The types that most gardeners are aware of include the use of Marigolds or Tagetes among tomatoes, usually in the greenhouse. Either the whitefly are confused by the smell of the Marigolds and don’t realise the tomatoes are there or they don’t like the smell and head off somewhere else. Other examples are the use of Garlic, onions and the like alongside many crops including Carrots. The smell again stops attack.
Other forms of companion planting include the benefit some low growing plants get from the shade provided by taller plants. It is also true for some shallow rooted plants which thrive if next to deep rooted neighbours who bring much needed nutrient from lower down in the soil.
Elsewhere in the garden Nasturtiums for example can be planted alongside cabbages to attract Cabbage White Butterfly caterpillars away from the crop
to reduce damage. This often works but a customer told me the other day that when they tried this they had the best possible display of Nasturtiums while his cabbages were chomped! Perhaps we need to tell the caterpillars what the deal is!
Flowers such as Limnanthes, the Poached Egg Plant will attract beneficial insects such as Hoverflies into crops where they will then feast on insect pests.
Mixed planting in itself is a good idea. In nature monoculture is extremely rare which should give us a clue.
Some organic gardeners will grow vegetables among ornamental plants in the herbaceous border.
This may appear to be a strange thing to do but the result will be that should one clump of lettuce, say, be attacked by a pest its unlikely to spread to another batch hidden by other plants whereas in a traditional vegetable garden the pest would run riot up and down the rows something that we have made so easy for them.
Another benefit of using these methods is that your garden as an environment will become more diverse and this starts a process where balance returns. As a result, dramatic pest and disease explosions are less likely to happen. Not only this but a range of larger animal friends will start to appear including birds, frogs and toads, slow worms and also hedgehogs all of which love to chomp away at garden pests.
I would bet we have forgotten many companion planting combinations that we have remembered but over the next few years we’ll rediscover how useful it can be. It also is really interesting and adds another dimension to the fun of gardening.
L R MASONRY GENERAL
Stone work, Brick work 07971-982565 llewie30roberts@gmail.com
07301-007855 ALL IRONWORK. Handrails.Gates. Railings. Repairs. Restoration. 01258 880301
228827 07809 362919 KBB KITCHEN FITTER, all aspects of kitchen fitting undertaken. 30 years experience, free estimates given. Tel: 01963 364550 or 0789 0841827
B.LUCAS
SERVICES, Painting & Decorating, Carpentry, Interior/Exterior. For free quote call Tim 07793 837073
Tel: Wincanton 01963 202382 Mobile: 07881 504426 Email: maplepres@aol.com www.maplepreservation.co.uk
All types of plastering, floor screeding & rendering. Wincanton & 20 mile radius. HELPFUL ADVICE & FREE QUOTATIONS CALL NEIL: 07974 185923 or 07811 211586.
All aspects of building and plumbing catered for. Tel: 07970 437786 e: swbuildandrenovation@gmail.com
STEVE ADAMS CHIMNEY SWEEPING
HETAS registered woodburner and flue installer. Birdguards and cowls 07932 655267
MARTIN SIMMONDS CHIMNEY SWEEP Friendly, Reliable, Professional -
07368 250305, 01747 590799
CHIMNEYS
K.SANSOM CHIMNEY SWEEP Brush & vacuum. APICS registered 01963 370038
SOLID FUEL INSTALLATIONS
Accredited installers of Wood burning & Multi fuel stoves, Chimney liners, twin wall flues, fireplace conversions, replacement hearths, chimney restoration & rebuilding, dealing with water ingress, cowlings, bird guards. Fully Insured, long term established. 01749 677440 – 07921074602- solidfuel3@aol.com www.solidfuelinstallationsltd.co.uk
other tradesmen. Established reputable company with excellent reviews and vetted by checkatrade. We fit boiler stoves, relining old installations, all building work undertaken from plastering/ rendering/demolition and fireplace alterations even exterior painting or chimney/roof leak fixing. Book in now with our discount springtime offer stove installation packages on mentioning this advert.
regs
• Log burner flexi liner installations
• Fireplace alterations drone surveys
• Cherry picker & scaffold if required
• Thatch property wood burners
• Plastering rendering exterior decorating
• General building
Local Services
DEREK ETHERINGTON BSc(Hons).
PC/Mac, Repairs, Networks, Websites, Tuition. Free local callout. 01963362403 07855287150 http://www.dcenet.co.uk
Wifi connection and phone problems. Professional, fully
30 years experience. DBS
Adrian 07799 105008
COMPUTER MAINTENANCE & REPAIRS
Purchase advice, Virus Removal, New PC Setup/ Installation, Internet Connection, Upgrades, Computer/ Software Tuition - Call Gregg on 01963 370713
Joseph Crocker Computers
Custom built gaming & office PCs
Desktop & laptop repair
Help with mobile devices
General computer and IT advice NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL 01963 23669 07484 690824 josephcrockercomputers.co.uk
•
I’m
Or
DECORATION, FLOORING & CARPENTRY
GARETH TANNER
GENERAL MAINTENANCE SERVICES, Painting & Decorating, Carpentry, Interior/Exterior. For free quote call Tim 07793 837073
Painting & Decorating
Local Quality Painter & Decorator.
35 Years Experience
FREE Estimates. No VAT Call Richard on Tel: 01258 880670
Mob: 07825512627
‘Your home in safe and capable hands’
G.O.T. DECORATING City and Guilds qualified Interior/exterior Decorating Free Quotes no VAT Tel 07736644452 go.tanner93@gmail.com
COUNTRY CARPENTRY
Doors, repairs, general maintenance etc Call Nick on 07887 358570
M & M PAINTING & DECORATING. 30years experience. Fully insured, clean & tidy. References available. FREE no obligation quote. Tel: 07534952486 / 01305-849380
LJB CARPENTRY & BUILDING SERVICES. Extensions, loft conversion, garden make-over, office removals, rubbish clearance. Mere VAT registered. 07543 814320. ljbcar@mail.com
LES BENHAM
Painting Services, Property Maintenance, Domestic/ Commercial Inside or Out, Fully Insured/Free Quotes 01258 458849/ 07788 907343 lesbenham@yahoo.co.uk /checkatrade
& Kitchens
Upgrades and Carpentry
Decorating services
Refreshing sale and rental upgrades
Handyman projects
Plumbing repairs Tiling services
Contact: John Banham Office: 01747 838 087 Mobile: 07768 190 131
email: refreshingrenovations@gmail.com
DEADLINES
Display ads must be booked by Wednesday the week prior to publication, with final copy submitted by the Friday.
Classified ads may be accepted after this, HOWEVER these will be subject to space.
Need some help with cleaning and gardening? Dorchester area only Call Linda 07966-228291
/ 07850-237212. sbowenroofing@outlook.com • Felt Roofing
CLASSIFIED ADS
2 LISTER PETTERS ENGINE, A series, 3HP, 6HP. Open to offers. Tel: 01725-552670
ITALIAN MADE LEATHER SOFA, 3 seater, plus 1 chair, 3wks old. Light Grey. Cost £2500. Asking £1000 ONO. Tel: 01963 -31072
4 ANTIQUE FIDDLE-BACK KITCHEN chairs. £100. Antique smokers bow elm chair £100. 01963 371381
ELECTRO BIKE PLUS, 26” wheels. aluminum folding frame. 6speed Shimano gears, saddle bag and helmet. £550.00 Tel: 07990-576092
A MARINER OUTBOARD
ENGINE, 2.5hp, £190. Blandford 07710 555713
OAK WELSH DRESSER. £50. GC. Mahogany Table, 4 chairs & 2 carvers. £100. Tel: 01935-812985
FREE CLASSIFIED ADS
VAX STEAM MOP for hard floors and carpets complete with microfibre and carpet heads and instructions. In VGC £25 ono. Tel:07891 987809
TWO SHOPPING TROLLEYS £5.00 each. Telephone 01935 814746
2 X TAVISTOCK VITORIA 605mm
Ceramic Basin, Pedestal and Mono Basin Mixer and Pop-Up Waste £50 each 01747 897199
MOBILITY LIGHTWEIGHT
FOLDING WHEEL CHAIR brand new in orange unused £50. Tel 07760 776792
PICANTO SPACE SAVER WHEEL with Tool Kit, Tyre size T115/70 R15 90M, New & Never used. £45, Tel: 01963 33160
EARLEX SPRAY STATION 3000. The complete paint spraying system. In as new condition, used once. Quick and efficient. £25. Tel: 01935 834270
BOOKS ON FLY FISHING, Fly Tying, Flies & General Fishing. Quantity 9. £45. Enquiries Telephone 01747 840473
TRUNDLE BED. (the one bed stores away underneath the other bed, 2 beds in the trundle) Very good condition rarely used £40 phone 01258 473919
SOLID WOOD FIDDLE back rocking chair hardly used. like new condition £50 – 07468-338631
SNOOKER TABLE WITH LEGS, 192cm X 102cm. Balls, Cues, £50. Cash only. Tel: 07585-342973
LONG RANGE FM RADIO
ANTENNA like new £10 Gillingham. call 07963 319751
FREE COLLARD & COLLARD 19th cent. Semi Concert Grand Rosewood Piano. Iron Frame. Good condition. 01963 371 601
IN EXCESS OF 100 6”x 6” reclaimed quarry tiles mainly terracotta colour £50 Close to Sturminster Newton. Tel. 07717 787937
OCTAGONAL WOODEN TABLE & 4 chairs plus parasol and seat pads.£60 Sherborne 07709-237672
BOXES (strong cardboard - up to 12kg). 30 available. Majority flattened. Location: STREET £20 Tel.01458 44 32 64
MOWER AL-CO ELECTRIC, 40cm cut (metal blade) With grass box good condition £50 Tel 07449-116144
USEFUL CUPBOARD-CUMBOOKCASE. Medium to light wood. aprox.7feet tall,3 feet wide,1foot deep.£46. Tel no.01747-228845
SINGLE BED SIZE red tubular metal bed head good condition £10 07709-237672
PARASOL 2M, dark green, wooden pole good condition £20 07709237672 Sherborne
LEATHER TWO SEATER SOFA.£50 Ono telephone 01749-850356
FLUTE ROMILLY GRADUATE, plays well, case £45ono 01747-854208
STAIRLIFT. Dismantled ready for collection. FREE. Used one year. Manufacturer ‘Freecurve’ 01305 608484 (Poundbury)
GO-CHEF. 1-A cooker. Never been used. £40. Tel: 07791-847767
DOUBLE BED with headboard. £40.00 Tel: 07588-053555
2 BEDSIDE CABINETS, teak effect. 21”wide 15” length, 24” height. 3 drawer. 15.5” wide, 15” depth, 24” height. £20.00 Tel: 01935-812985
CAKE DECORATING EQUIPMENT
Turntables, nozzles, cutters, tools, boards, ribbons, books, etc All or selected items Details contact 01963-362156
WHITE WORDROBE and chester drawers. £20 each. Tel: 07827-225997
JAQUES PENTANQUE SET with bag. Little used. £25. Buyer collects (Dorchester). 07970-015211.
FOLDING GUEST BED £25 Tel: 07925-217882
CARVED WOOD ELEPHANTS (2) 18cms tall £15 each Tel-01935-873441
HUT/SHED. Ideal for log store. 2mtr X 1mtr Made of alluminum sheets. £45. Tel: 01747-840835
LADIES RALEIGH ALASKA Mountain Bike. 21gears. £30. Tel: 07702-003739
DAYS ROLLATOR, sturdy and in good condition £15 Horsington 01963 371423
COLLECTABLE RONSON CROWN table lighter. Embellished Chrome. £10. Tel: 01963-350118 / 07527-733046
RUSSELL HOBBS RED TOASTER. As New £8. Tel: 01963-350118 / 07527-733046
LADIES BIKE, RALEIGH PIONEER
Trail, 21 gears, good condition, £30, 01963/362677
FULL LENGTH ELECTRIC BACK MASSAGER, never used £50 ONO 01747 853913
A SET OF 4 HENSELITE BOWLS, size 5, in a box. £30. 07707 596857
Items for sale
LONG RANGE RADIO ANTENNA for FM Radio Reception. £10 Tel: 07963-319751
2 BEACH RODS, 1 fixed spool reel, good condition, £50. Tel: 07907-044084
SOUND IRON GARDEN GATE 6ft by 2ft 2ins with hinges needs painting £50 01963 362148
NEW CITIZEN ECO DRIVE ladies bracelet watch still in box £45 07899-691847
TABLE, PINE, VINTAGE, circular drum style 110 cm diameter, heavy, central pedestal leg. Photos. Sherborne. £50. 07774 680733
5 CARBON STEEL KITCHEN KNIVES, wooden block, sabatier judge £25. Tel: 01935-389064 Sherborne
TUMBLE DRYER. CREDA, 3kg, compact, reversair. £10. VGC. Buyer collects. 01935-815648
LARGE QUANTITY OF BOOKS for sale, many subjects. Tel 01258817268
LARGE LARDER FRIDGE. Old but in perfect working order. 64 inches tall. 24 inches wide. 2 doors. Lots of shelves and compartments. £25. 01747 861254.
FREE. Garden tool/toy store. 110cmx50cmx50cm. Dismantable. Potted Apple and Shrubs. Shaftesbury. 07483-833340
BRAND NEW GOLF BALLS some yellow some white 35p each or £14 the lot – 01935-476815
ART STAND, frame, brushes, paper. ALL £45. 01747-822338
ANTIQUE PINE GLAZED CABINET with shelves. Buyer collects. £50. 01258 817810
OLD BOOKS BOUGHT. Will call by appointment entirely without obligation. Bristow & Garland 07392 602014
STAMPS & COINS wanted by collector/ investor. I am very keen to purchase large or small collections at this time.
Tel Rod 01308 863790 or 07802 261339
WANTED
WANTED: LARGE BARN TO RENT for young horses. onsite water, (turnout) and horsebox access. shaftesbury/henstridge corridor. please call charlotte 07809 836235 or heather 07702 887401
Food & Drink
Cooking up a storm at spring show
by Barbara CossinsWE live in a fast-paced consumer society. One that is not very sympathetic to seasonal changes and the challenges of the weather.
I was lucky enough to be able to hold a food demonstration on how to cook local food and talk to the public about shopping locally and the importance of supporting our local food producers. Together with my great friends Peter Morgan from The Book and Bucket Cheese Company and Rachel Perret from Meggie Moos Dairy, I gave a food and cooking demonstration at the Dorset Spring Show held at Kingston Maurward Agricultural College a few weeks ago.
Food education is key for all of us and this was a fantastic event to help spread awareness of what is in season at different times of the year, as well as the
importance and ease of cooking from raw ingredients to create fresh food. Not only is it cheaper for your pocket, it is healthier eating for your family, helps reduce your carbon footprint and allows our local economy to thrive. That is a four-way win!
It has been a struggle for me to keep British lamb on my
menu because of the high prices and it seems madness that we are still exporting our meat abroad for other countries to enjoy while we cannot afford it ourselves.
And then importing meat from another country into the UK as a trade-off. Has the world gone mad?
We know the quality of our meat and the impeccable standards to which it is produced are the reasons everyone wants it, but the fact we are then importing other meat that has been produced with antibiotics and growth hormones for our own consumption is, indeed, madness.
Farmers in England are not allowed to use these antibiotics and hormones as it was decided many years ago that these sort of practices were not safe and yet we open ourselves up to ingesting them anyway through
imports. Go figure that one out for logic.
I was shocked when talking to someone the other day who said we should not be growing so much corn to feed our animals. Pigs and chickens eat corn as their main diet, yet these two meat sources are consumed in the largest quantities in the world, so it is needed. Sadly, with all the wet weather we have had, it means we have had a lot of failed crops over the winter and spring of 2023/24.
The spring corn in particular in some places has still not been sown because of the weather being so bad – farmers simply could not get on the land in time to sow the seeds. This year’s 2024 harvest is going to be another challenging one. n Barbara Cossins is creator of Love Local Trust Local and proprietor of The Langton Arms and Rawston Farm Butchery & Shop
TRADITIONAL COUNTRY PUB SERVING FINE FOOD AND DRINKS
We are delighted that our renovation and expansion project has been well received by customers as have our food and beverage offerings. After a very long search, we now have a fully staffed kitchen and offer our full lunch and dinner menu every day from Tuesday lunch until Sunday lunch. We are closed after lunch on Sunday and all day Monday. We offer a wide range of beers, cider, wines and spirits as well as a range of non-alcoholic options.
A Pub With Warmth And Atmosphere
The bar and snug have been refreshed but retain all the old features that made this cosy area so attractive. And, by popular demand, we have a new wood burning stove to provide atmosphere and warmth whenever needed! We have a completely new kitchen, beer cellar and new male, female and disabled washrooms. The old conservatory is now an insulated garden room and we have a new dining area which can accommodate a further twenty guests.
Hearty Food And Distinctive Drinks
By experimenting with our menu and listening to our customers we have developed a popular menu ranging from light snacks to exciting specials and everything in-between. Please look at our menu and see if you can spot your favourite country pub meal. For Sunday lunch, in addition to our full menu, we offer a traditional roast with all the trimmings. Our range of drinks has evolved in response to customer demand and caters for all tastes. But most importantly we have built a wonderful team to look after you all and ensure a great experience at the Plough.
We hope to see you soon, Cheers, Peter & Karlene
End of an area as wine merchant prepares to move on to new home
RENOWNED Mere-based wine merchants Yapp Brothers is on the move – to neighbouring Somerset.
The firm, which has been in the town for around five decades, will close its premises at The Old Brewery at the end of the month – with a big sale planned for customers.
Yapp Brothers provide wines for all manner of venues, including Michelin-starred restaurants and more.
It was founded in 1969 by dentist Robin Yapp, who ventured into the then-little known Rhône and Loire valleys
and began shipping wines from the region.
Since then, it has expanded, eventually settling at The Old Brewery in Mere.
In 2004, Robin retired, with the company left in the safe hands – and in the family – of stepbrothers Jason Yapp and Tom Ashworth.
Tom, chief executive of the firm, said the time was right for the next step.
“After 53 remarkable years at our much-loved Old Brewery site, this relocation marks a significant chapter in the Yapp story,” he said.
Cafe’s business award
THE Little Pickle at the Mill café team are celebrating after winning Best New Business of the Year in the Wimborne Business Awards.
The café started trading last year in its riverside location at Walford Mill, the town’s Grade II listed arts and crafts venue.
Co-owner, Andrew Spong, said: “We are so excited about
“We are thrilled to embrace new opportunities, provide an improved working environment for our team, and deliver a broader range of wines and services to our customers at competitive prices.”
He said the firm would move gradually throughout May, with a special offering to customers
at the old premises.
A Big Bin-End Sale is planned between Thursday, May 23, and Saturday, May 25, offering discounted bottles, original artwork, wooden wine boxes, corkscrews and more.
The company will be moving to more “modern” premises at West 303, at Sparkford.
being part of the developing community at Walford Mill, in Wimborne’s most beautiful spot.”
The Mill’s dog-friendly courtyard will shortly become the latest performance area for the Wimborne Minster Folk Festival, with a full line up of musical performers on Saturday, June 8, from 10am.
Health & Wellbeing
Meditations in nature: Time out on the Jurassic coast
by Susanna CurtinA DESIRE to be by the sea and my inherent love of geology and fossil hunting has brought me to the Jurassic coast. Low tide is at 11am providing safe conditions for a stroll along the beach. The sea is flat and calm, and the sky is a deep blue with not a cloud to be seen.
Unfortunately, I am not alone – fossil hunting has become a national pastime. Not only is it fun and interesting, it also provides a profound connection to the millions of years of evolutionary history of the plants and animals that once lived here. To pick up a fossil is like finding buried treasure that has survived 200 million years and you are the first person ever to have seen and held it in the
palm of your hand.
Some days there are many to discover, other days, like today, fossils are more difficult to find, perhaps because of the number of people, but also the wave and weather conditions –usually the rougher the better.
So, it is not long before I give up and just enjoy the sights and sounds of being beside the sea, for that is what my body and soul needs the most. People have turned to the healing powers of the seaside for years. Now science can tell us why this multi-sensual, blue space makes us feel better. Firstly, sea air is cleaner, less polluted and contains more negative ions. These atoms or molecules have more electrons than protons and have been
negatively charged by wind and sunlight. They enter our bodies mainly through our skin and respiratory system. Their presence increases our serotonin levels boosting our energy and improving our mood.
Secondly, the sea breeze is good for our immune system as plants that grow by the coast emit a substance called phytoncide which inhibits the growth of bacteria.
And finally, we absorb more Vitamin D by the sea as it tends to be sunnier and brighter by
the coast than inland.
Once past the crowds and beyond the dangerous cliffs, I find a sheltered place to lie down. The weight of my body carves a comfortable hollow in the rounded, sea-worn pebbles, and a tall rock protects me from the wind. With my trouser legs and sleeves rolled up and suitably protected from the strength of the sun, I am transported to warm summer days.
Above me I watch a peregrine falcon soaring over the cliffs towards his nest site. I
Take 10 minutes for yourself
by Daisy CampbellIT is so easy to lose sight of who we truly are, just as we are. We can so often get lost beneath the intricate web of who we are as a mother, a daughter, a wife. Who are we beneath trying to be good at all these other people?
The endless pressures of life pushing and pulling us in all directions. The comparing, the trying, the wanting. It can be exhausting and very easy to become disconnected and distant from who we actually are and what we really want. It can be harder still to remember who we are after years and years of subconscious patterns and behaviours becoming our default personality or way of being. Often, these are adopted as a way of feeling accepted and loved. Totally understandable,
we all want to feel loved.
The problem with this way of operating, is we can become exhausted by constantly chasing the approval or love from others. We can become burnt out and eventually a little empty. The pursuit of external possessions or praise from others can dwindle and lose its thrill.
Taking some time out each day for yourself, even for 10 minutes – which we all have – to just be or sit or ponder, walk, paint, write, whatever lights you up and makes you smile can be so enriching for the soul, and if done regularly, can really begin to remind you that you can be that source of joy and fulfilment for yourself. It can begin to give you a sense of calm and peace that is invaluable and rather addictive.
Another tip is mediation. I know it’s become a bit of a trend and possibly a bit offputting for some, but I can’t recommend it enough. If you think of it as simply a quiet moment for yourself, to “check in” and begin to hear that quiet voice inside, that may have been hushed, it can make more sense and be more appealing. Sitting quietly somewhere comfortable for just five minutes and noticing yourself breathing in and out, is over time, incredibly enriching. Instead of wanting to run for the hills when I’m at the end of my tether, I now run to my bedroom for my 10 minutes of quiet!
This all sounds rather simple, I know, but it is surprising how rarely we take 10 minutes for ourselves and what a difference it can make when we do. What I
have noticed with my clients, is that even when you make a small change, it can have a ripple effect on your life. Difficult parts can begin to get easier and improve and that empty feeling can fade. Whatever you choose to do with your ten minutes every day, is obviously completely up to you, but make sure it is something that brings you joy and feels a little bit exciting to do again the next day. Over time this will begin to become a habit that brings calm and a reminder of who you truly are, just as you are.
n Daisy Campbell is a fully certified health coach. For gentle guidance and coaching to help you make changes in your life, please get in touch on 07740 864 616 or email daisydundas@yahoo.com.
can also see the flight paths of aircraft and their slowly fading contrails. For once, I am not envious of the holidaymakers heading for the continent. For in this moment, I cannot think of a more soothing place to be than here beside this gentle sea listening to the ebb and flow of the pebbles as they are pulled back and forth by the waves.
While the visual beauty of the coastline is unquestionable, it is also the sounds of the ocean that are psychologically beneficial. Again, scientific studies have indicated how the low frequency and rhythmic
sounds of waves activate our parasympathetic nervous system which controls the body’s ability to rest. Rather than loud sudden noises that cause us to fight or flight, these gentle rhythmic sound waves tell us we are safe. In this state, our heart rate and blood pressure lowers, and we relax. In addition, the ‘acoustic camouflage’ of the breaking waves drowns out other noises and distractions and helps us to clear our minds of anxieties or pressing concerns.
n Dr Susie Curtin (email curtin. susanna@gmail.com).
SMART PHYSIO
Bad back? Stiff neck? Aching knee? Stiff Hip? Bad ankle? Shoulder pain?
Malthouse Care Home Bay Road, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4EW Our friendly team truly care for your family like they would their ownproviding compassion, respect, and dignity. With a deep commitment to meeting residents’ individual needs, whether it’s residential or respite care, The Malthouse is your perfect choice. healthcarehomes.co.uk
GoodOaks Homecare scoop two wins at the Dorset Care Awards.
GoodOaks Homecare scoop two wins at the Dorset Care Awards.
Health & Wellbeing
Local Visiting and Live-in homecare provider GoodOaks, has scooped double honours at the Dorset Care Awards! The awards, a first for the Dorset Care Association, set out to showcase the best in care in the region, celebrating extraordinary achievements within the sector.
Local Visiting and Live-in homecare provider GoodOaks, has scooped double honours at the Dorset Care Awards! The awards, a first for the Dorset Care Association, set out to showcase the best in care in the region, celebrating extraordinary achievements within the sector.
As well as being nominated as finalists in categories including Nutrition & Hydration, Innovation in Social Care and Support Worker of the Year, they went on to win the Excellence in Social Care Training and the Sustainability & Environmental award.
As well as being nominated as finalists in categories including Nutrition & Hydration, Innovation in Social Care and Support Worker of the Year, they went on to win the Excellence in Social Care Training and the Sustainability & Environmental award.
The Excellence in Social Care Training was awarded for showcasing the value they place in the training and development of their teams. It reflected how their training makes a huge impact in the lives of their clients, by raising the standard of care across the sector.
The Excellence in Social Care Training was awarded for showcasing the value they place in the training and development of their teams. It reflected how their training makes a huge impact in the lives of their clients, by raising the standard of care across the sector.
The Sustainability & Environmental award reflects their Carbon Neutral status and how passionate they are to make change. GoodOaks believe that everyone needs to do as much as they can for our future generations. In
The Sustainability & Environmental award reflects their Carbon Neutral status and how passionate they are to make change. GoodOaks believe that everyone needs to do as much as they can for our future generations. In
terms of impact - They have offset over 453 tonnes of CO2 to date, and another 200 tonnes due to be offset in 2024.
terms of impact - They have offset over 453 tonnes of CO2 to date, and another 200 tonnes due to be offset in 2024.
Co-Founder of GoodOaks Ben Ashton commented: “Winning these awards is a testament to our unwavering commitment to new approaches that revolutionise the way we support and care for our planet. This recognition fuels our passion to continue pushing boundaries, breaking barriers, and together, we will continue to shape a brighter future for our sector and planet.”
Co-Founder of GoodOaks Ben Ashton commented: “Winning these awards is a testament to our unwavering commitment to new approaches that revolutionise the way we support and care for our planet. This recognition fuels our passion to continue pushing boundaries, breaking barriers, and together, we will continue to shape a brighter future for our sector and planet.”
GoodOaks provide Live-in and Visiting Homecare to clients in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes. For more information please call Tel: 01202 125882 to talk to a member of the team.
GoodOaks provide Live-in and Visiting Homecare to clients in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes. For more information please call Tel: 01202 125882 to talk to a member of the team.
Live-in Care you can rely on
Our local team of care professionals adapt and work to support you in your own home. They can help with:
• Meal preparation
• Medication
• Personal care
• Companionship
• Help around the home
• And much more…
To find out more call or visit: 01202 125882
enquiries@goodoakshomecare.co.uk
goodoakshomecare.co.uk/bournemouth
How to steer clear of trouble on the road this summer
DRIVERS will be hitting the roads this spring Bank Holiday and to help them ensure their vehicles are legal and roadworthy the The Motor Ombudsman has produced some guidance.
Tread carefully: Regular tyre maintenance is critical, as the small contact patch is the only surface separating the vehicle from the road. The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread, and around the complete circumference of the tyre. Inserting a 20p coin into the tread of the rubber is a quick and easy test to determine whether the depth is above the legal limit. If the outer band of
the piece cannot be seen when it’s inserted, then the tread is sufficient. Furthermore, look out for splits or bulges, as high summer temperatures can heat up tyres and aggravate any existing damage to the rubber. All tyres, including the spare –if your car is not equipped with run flats – should be inflated to the pressures as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer – a sticker can normally be found on the door frame which indicates the levels in bar and psi. Remember that they should only be checked when they are cold and have not been in use for a few hours. Under-inflation, which a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) should indicate, can affect wear,
handling and grip, especially during periods of inclement weather.
At its best when fluid: Fluids and lubricants are a lifeline for a vehicle so that it can operate correctly. These include oil, screenwash and air conditioning coolant, and all should be topped up to the advised levels. It’s always best to take your car to the garage if you’re not sure where to replenish the fluids and lubricants under the bonnet, and how much to put in.
It’s in the small print: Having valid documentation is essential for staying on the right side of the law when on the road. Make sure your insurance policy, car tax (Vehicle Excise Duty) and MOT certificate are all up to date before setting off. Breaking down the essentials: Planning for the unknown is essential, and therefore it’s important that you have an appropriate breakdown policy which provides the right level of cover, including for travelling abroad if appropriate.
Also, check what emergency equipment you have in the car – such as jump leads, a warning triangle and tyre sealant – if there’s no spare – and what you need if you’re planning to visit other countries. Moreover, the vehicle’s handbook – usually found in the glovebox – often contains useful advice and troubleshooting information should something go wrong. Lighting up the road: Although the summer season is traditionally a period when there is most daylight, it’s still important that all front headlights, LED running lights, fog lights and rear lamps should be operating at their full potential and cleaned at least once a week to stay safe when travelling in the dark or when visibility is poor. Make a point to charge ahead: If you drive an electric vehicles (EV) or plug-in hybrid car, it’s important you are aware of the location of battery charging points along your
Continued on page 74
You’ll also be able to explore our awardwinning electric range, including the 2024 World Car of the Year and 2024 UK Car of the Year - the Kia EV9, the EV6 and the Niro EV.
at FJ Chalke in
from the 5th-10th June or in Yeovil from the 7th-12th June.
MINI ONE SOFT TOP. 2010 plate. 68k Red. Full MOT. Serviced regularly. lady driver. £2495 ono. Tel: 07715-867145
YAMAHA PHASER 600. ‘02. 15k miles from new. excellent condition. £2,150.00 Tel: 07599-545243/07977-736335
STORAGE FOR CARAVANS, boats and cars at Enford Farm near Blandford. 01258 450050 / 07704 813025
OLD, INTERESTING & CLASSIC CARS wanted pre 1990s Any condition including unfinished projects Cash/Transfer Please Phone Paul 07890 096907
UNWANTED VEHICLES bought for cash ●Mot failures ●Nonrunners ●Unfinished projects ●end of life scrap vehicles ●minimum of £200 paid for complete vehicles. Call Ryan on 07474 737577
Summer driving advice
Continued from page 73
route, whether in the UK or on the continent. Research how many miles you are planning to cover, what the distance is between charging stations, and if your accommodation has points available so that you can make sure your car has sufficient range for your trips. Equally essential is the health of your battery as it drives the car’s electronic systems. If your vehicle is difficult to start, and the battery is more than five years old, you should look at getting it replaced as a flat battery is one of the main causes of breakdowns. This will help to avoid any unnecessary interruptions to journeys during the holiday period.
Access is key: Make sure you know the alternative method for getting into the car if the key fob fails or loses power. This is usually detailed in your vehicle’s handbook.
CLASSIC CAR. 1952 RILEY
Fuel for thought: Do not fill the fuel tank completely, especially on hot days. As with most liquids, fuel will expand, and this could lead to it leaking out of the filler neck of the tank or breather. With prices at the pump on the rise, you can check online where the cheapest unleaded, diesel or LPG in a selected area of the UK can be found.
Keep it light: Carrying unnecessary items in the car may also raise fuel use. Therefore, if they are not required, remove any racks or boxes from the roof as these can create drag, and try to be realistic about what you will need when packing for your summer holiday.
Entertainment for the kids:
To avoid the common question: ‘are we there yet?’, remember to plan ahead with entertainment for the kids. Ensure that all devices such as tablets and phones are fully charged and ready with a few pre-downloaded films, and remember their chargers and battery packs. It’s also a time to get back to basics with traditional games of ‘I-spy’, jokes, riddles and a good sing-along!
Please call 01747 853114 or 07546 548017
RNB 2.5l. All panels restored. Engine, gearbox, rear axle all in good working order. Laid up in 1974 with V5 document. Full restoration. £4-£5k ONO. 01963 351931
LAND ROVER
FREELANDER 2 2013; 138,000 miles excellent condition. Navy blue, 3 owners Langport. Tel 0797-1741936. £5750
CARAVAN AND MOTORHOME STORAGE in Child Okeford. CaSSOA Gold Award. Gated site. 24hr access. 01258 861100.
Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.
1988 HARLEY DAVIDSON Sportster 883cc. Needs minor work for MOT. £2000 o.n.o. Tel.07810 567475
RENAULT MASTER VAN, 55reg, diesel, 6seats, wheelchair tail-lift. MOT Nov 24. £1,200.00 ono. Tel: 01258-450584
CARAVAN FOR SALE, SWIFT CHALLENGER, 570SE. 2014. Good Condition. 2new tyres. New battery. Motor mover, Hitch -lock, wheel-lock, many accessories inside. £12,750 ono. Tel: 07731-728568
AUDI A1 S-LINE, TFS1. 3dr Hatch-back, petrol, mileage from new 2368. 2014. Condition as new. (1 lady owner) £12,000 ONO. Tel: 07764-359492
Peacemarsh Garage
Bodyshop
Diagnostics
Bodyshop
Collections
car to be sold as seen with MOT until October, cambelt has been replaced, 93,000 miles ............................................................DUE IN SOON £1500
2018 (18) Ford Kuga 1.5T EcoBoost Titanium Nav SUV 5dr. 150bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, high seats, big boot, partial leather, sat nav, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, auto parking system, hill start assist, heated steering wheel, 32,500 miles .......................................................................£12250
2017 (67) Ford Kuga 1.5TDCi Titanium Nav Automatic SUV 5dr. 120bhp, diesel, 6 speed automatic gearbox, high seating position, big boot, sat nav, parking sensors, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, hill start assist, partial leather, only 38,500 miles ................................................................................................£12450
2015 (65) Ford Kuga 2.0TDCi Titanium Nav SUV 5dr. 150bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, high seating, big boot, sat nav, parking sensors, reverse camera, auto parking system, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, hill start assist, partial leather, 79,000 miles .........................................................................DUE IN £8250
2018 (18) Hyundai Kona 1.0T-GDi Premium 5dr. 120bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, sat nav, parking sensors & reverse camera, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, hill start assist, 21,300 miles ……………………£12250
2017 (17) Nissan Juke 1.2DIG-T N-Connecta SUV 5dr. 115bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, sat nav, parking camera, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, hill start assist, 49,500 miles …………………………………………………£8750
2009 (09) Skoda Roomster 1.4TDi SE 5dr. 80bhp, diesel, 5 speed manual gearbox, clearance car to be sold as seen, MOT April 2025, cambelt has been replaced, not perfect but a great value bargain, 174,000 miles .......................£1250
2019 (19) Vauxhall
X 1.2 Elite Estate MPV 5dr. 82bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, high seating, big boot, auto lights, parking sensors, cruise control, cambelt has been replaced, 51,900 miles ..........................................£9650
2017 (17) Vauxhall Astra 1.4 SRi 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, parking sensors, pre-collision assist, sign recognition, 63,600 miles ...............................................................................£7650
2013 (63) Vauxhall Astra 2.0CDTi SRi Automatic Estate. 165bhp, diesel, 6 speed automatic gearbox, clearance car to be sold as seen, MOT Dec, cambelt has been replaced, not perfect but a bargain, 90,800 miles ..................................£2750
2011 (11) Volkswagen Golf 1.4TSi Match 5dr. 125bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, parking sensors, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, hill start assist, Bluetooth, only 51,900 miles ..........................................................................£6450
2008 (58) Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0TDi 4-Motion SE SUV 5dr. 138bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, parking sensors, clearance car to be sold as seen, MOT February 2025, cambelt has been replaced, 99,800 miles ..............................£2850
COMMERCIAL VEHICLES
2015 (15) Ford Transit Connect 1.6TDCi T200 Trend Van. 95bhp, diesel, 5 speed manual gearbox, bulkhead, 3 seats, side door, heated front screen, hill start assist, 78,900 miles .............................................................£7000 + VAT = £8400
2016 (66) Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2.1CDi 314 LWB Van. 140bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, long wheel base, high
cruise control, 156,000 miles ......................
(66) Vauxhall Corsa Van 1.3CDTi 3dr. 95bhp, diesel,
Announcements
BIRTHDAY
DENNIS CHAPPLE
THANK YOU DEATHS
JUNE ANN WHALLEY
RON JOHNSON
Jo, Sarah and Jack would like to thank Family and Friends for their kind messages and support. And for attending Ron’s funeral, also for the Donations to Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance, which amounted to £487.70.
Special Thanks to the Rev. Denise Binks at Bell Street United Church, Merryfield in Henstridge Funeral Directors, Consultants, Doctors and Staff at Salisbury District Hospital and Abbey View Medical Centre, especially the District Nurses for their excellent care. Also thanks to Dikes of Stalbridge and Shaston Social Club
PUBLIC NOTICES
Licensing Act 2003
Notice of application for the GRANT of a PREMISES LICENCE
Proposed licensable activities: Sale of alcohol
Name of applicant: Wincanton Cricket Club
Address of Premises: The Richard Carswell Cricket Pavilion, Recreation Ground, Cemetery Lane, Via Cavalier Way, Wincanton, Post Code: BA9 9ED
Date by which Responsible Authorities and other persons may make representations: Thursday 23rd May 2024
A record of the application made to the Licensing Authority will be kept on a register at the address given below and the register may be inspected during normal office hours. All representations regarding this application MUST BE IN WRITING and sent to: Somerset Council Licensing Department, The Council Offices Brympton Way, Yeovil Somerset BA20 2HT
Or email: licensing.south@somerset.gov.uk
It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make false statement in connection with an application and is subject to an unlimited fine on summary conviction for the offence.
Love and best wishes to our father for his 95th birthday on the 24th May. Brian, Hazel and Dawn. PURBECK
Purbeck and Portland Memorials Hand Made Hand Lettered And cleaning and restoration service Alan Davis 07757-461441 alanthestonemason@gmail.com
on 3rd May 2024, peacefully at home aged 74 years, of Shaftesbury. She will be sadly missed by Carol and her many friends.
Funeral service takes place at Salisbury Crematorium on Thursday 30th May at 1.00pm. No flowers please but donations for Weldmar Hospicecare can be made online at www.mhfd.co.uk or sent to Merefield and Henstridge F/D at Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532
ROY POWELL
Roy passed away peacefully at Salisbury Hospital on 5th May 2024, aged 75 years.
A much-loved father, brother, uncle and friend to many. Burial and tributes will take place at Ham Down Woodland Burial Ground on Friday 31st May at 11.00am.
Please note parking is limited, car sharing recommended. There are no facilities at the burial ground and you may need appropriate footwear according to the weather. Family flowers only please.
Donations for The British Hedgehog Preservation Society (cheques payable to BHPS) may be made online at www.mhfd.co.uk or sent to Merefield & Henstridge F/D, Ridgemount, Pitts Lane, West Melbury, Shaftesbury, Dorset, SP7 0BU. Tel: 01747 853532
RALPH Brian
Margaret would like to thank everyone who attended Brian’s Funeral Service at Yeovil Crematorium, sent cards and messages of sympathy, and those who have given her support during this sad time. Thankyou also to everyone for their generosity in giving donations for Diabetes UK, and to Woods Funeral Services for the arrangements
CUFF
Nigel Frederick John
Passed away peacefully on 29th April 2024 at The Old Vicarage Care Home, aged 87 years, of Alweston. Dearly loved Husband of the late Roma. Much loved Father of Gillian, David and Philip. Loving Grandad, Great-Grandad and friend to many. Private cremation. Service of Thanksgiving at St. Lawrence’s Church, Folke, on Wednesday 29th May at 2.30pm. Donations if desired for British Heart Foundation can be made online at peterjacksonfuneralservices.co.uk or cheques made payable to the charity can be sent c/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Mons, High St, Henstridge BA8 0RB. Tel 01963 362570
DEATHS
Eric John Doman
Passed away peacefully on the 12th May at home with his wife and son by his side. A service will be held on the 31st May at 11am at Salisbury Crematorium. No flowers please, donations if desired to the poppy appeal.
JEAN COWLEY
Passed away peacefully on the 10th May, 2024, at Abbey View Care Home Sherborne. Formerly of Stalbridge. Loving wife of John, mother of Judith and Michael, friend of many. Will be sadly missed. Funeral was held on the 22nd May. Donations in memory of Jean to Julia’s House Hospice, Dorset, c/o Peter Jackson Funeral Directors, High Street, Henstridge. BA8 0RB. 01963 362570.
Bob Gray Of Wincanton
Sadly Passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on the 9th of May 2024 aged 74 Beloved husband of Cherry adored dad of Michelle and Danny and cherished grandad Funeral service at Yeovil crematorium on the 30th of May, at 3:20 pm. family flowers only Donations to Friends of Wincanton Community Hospital and Cancer Research To LC Hill and son Mere
ANN WALKER
Ann passed away peacefully on 1st May 2024 at Salisbury Hospital, aged 88 years. Funeral Service at Poole and Wimborne Burial Ground on Friday 31st May at 11.30am. Family flowers only please, but donations if desired for Parkinson’s UK, may be sent to Grassby & Close Funeral Service, 4 Innes Court, Sturminster Newton, DT10 1BB, Tel: 01258 471024 or made online by visiting www.grassbyclose-funeral.co.uk
WEEKS
JUDY ANN née MATTHEWS
Judy passed away 7th May 2024 at Yeovil Hospital, Aged 77 years. A much loved wife, sister, sister-in-law, Aunt and Great-Aunt She will be fondly remembered by all who knew her. Funeral Service at Holy Trinity Church, Stourpaine on 5th June at 2.30pm. Black attire not essential. Family flowers only please, but donations if desired for Cancer Research UK , may be sent to Colin J Close Funeral Service, Peel Close, Blandford, Dorset DT11 7JU 01258 453133 or made online by visiting www.close-funeral.co.uk
Batten Susan Helen Frances,
MBE (nee Colfox) died peacefully on the 6th May 2024 aged 94. She leaves an enormous hole in the lives of her extended family and friends.
A funeral service will be held at St Hippolytus Church Ryme Intrinseca, on Tuesday 28th May 2024 at 12.00 noon. No flowers
JEAN BRINE
Sadly passed away at home on 12th May aged 86years. Dearly loved Wife, Mother, Grandmother and Great-Grandmother. Funeral Service at St Marys Church, East Knoyle 10th June at 2pm. No flowers please. Donations if desired for Cancer Research or The Donkey Sanctury. C/o LC Hill & Son, Water Street, Mere.
ERIC HOLMES
Passed away peacefully on 9th May, 2024 in Dorchester Hospital aged 86 from Blandford. Beloved husband of Annette, adored dad of Jacqui and Daryl. Cherished grandad and great-grandad, family and friend. Sadly missed by all. Service to be held at Poole Crematorium on June 4th at 12pm. Family flowers only. Donations to the Alzheimer’s Dementia UK or Royal British Legion, via Colin Close Funeral Directors, Blandford
MARY RACHEL FREELAND
of Ibberton passed away peacefully on 12th May 2024 aged 67. A much loved wife, mum, sister, granny and friend. She will be missed by all. Funeral service will be held at St Eustace Church, Ibberton at 2pm on 30th May with a gathering afterwards at Ibberton Village Hall. Please wear colourful clothing, no black tie. No flowers please, but donations to Cancer Research and Brave and Determined Company. Care of Colin J Close Funeral Service Peel Close, Blandford Forum, Dorset DT11 7JU.
Dearden Roger Edmund
Passed away peacefully on 7th May 2024. Loving husband, father and grandfather. Will be very much missed by all.
Roger’s funeral is to be held on Monday 17th June at 1.30pm at St John’s Church, Tisbury Family flowers only but donations welcome for St John’s Church, Tisbury and Tisbury Surgery c/o Chris White Funeral Directors 01722 744 691
A J Wakely& Sons
A
J Wakely
J Wakely
&
& Sons
A J Wakely& Sons
A J Wakely& Sons
A J Wakely Independent
Independent Family Funeral Directors
Sons Independent Family Funeral Directors
Independent Family Funeral Directors
Independent Family Funeral Directors
Independent Family Funeral Directors
Family Funeral Directors
A J Wakely& Sons
A J Wakely& Sons
Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse
Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse
Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse
Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse
Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse
Independent Family Funeral Directors
Independent Family Funeral Directors
available including our Land Rover Hearse
Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817
Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817
Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310 – 24 Hour Service –
Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310 – 24 Hour Service –
Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse
Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817
Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310 – 24 Hour Service –
Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817
Tel: 01963 31310 Hour Service –
Pre-payment plans available
Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310 – 24 Hour Service –
Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817
Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817
Pre-payment plans available
Tel: 01935 816817
Please contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.
Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310 – 24 Hour Service –
Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310 – 24 Hour Service –
Pre-payment plans available
Please contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.
Choice of Hearses available including our Land Rover Hearse
Please contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.
Pre-payment plans available
Pre-payment plans available
Pre-payment plans available
contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.
Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817
Sherborne Tel: 01935 816817
Please contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.
Pre-payment plans available
Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310
Wincanton Tel: 01963 31310 – 24 Hour Service –
contact Richard Wakely, or a member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.
Pre-payment plans available
Pre-payment plans available
member of our dedicated team for any advice or guidance.
Please
DORSET TIMBER FRAMING LTD
require Site Carpenters to install bespoke Oak Frame Buildings. Must have ability to carry out all aspects of carpentry to high standard with attention to detail. Oak frame experience useful but not essential as training will be provided.
Email CV or for more information –enquiries@dorsettimberframing.co.uk
Landscape Labourers
Recruitment
HARVEST TRACTOR
DRIVER required on arable farm near Mere 07966 195204
SEAMSTRESS REQUIRED. Regular Menswear Alterations Work. SQUIRES OF SHAFTESBURY. Contact Tim/Cathy Tel: 01747-852455
WEEKEND CLEANING
AND IRONING help required DT11. Tel: 07774 612578
GENERAL FARM
WORKER WANTED, small dairy farm near Sherborne. No Accommodation. 07812-608166
HOME HELP / PA REQUIRED DT10/11 Tuesdays 10-12, Thursdays 10-12, N/S, own transport, refs, DBS.
£15 per hour. PHONE only 10-12am 07990 759 838
RECEPTIONIST REQUIRED
Please join our friendly and professional team at a complementary health clinic near Shaftesbury on Fridays with the opportunity to increase working days. Computer literacy essential. Interested? Please get in touch: info@edwardsfarm.co.uk or 01747 855137
We are looking for skilled landscapers and general labourers to join our team. A good knowledge of hard and soft landscaping along with a can do attitude required, drivers preferred but not essential. Long term positions within an establish local company. Previous applicants need not reapply.
Property Developments & Joinery
Experienced. Full time employed position Weekly pay Immediate start available. Please apply through our Office W: builders-south-west.co.uk T: 01963824444 E: info@hhpltd.co.uk
SKILLED SITE CARPENTER
SELF EMPLOYED
We are looking for an experienced Groundworker who can also operate a 360° Excavator for local interesting contracts, working as part of a team.
Applicants must be con dent in their ability to carry out all aspects of groundwork to a good standard with attention to detail. We o er a safe working environment with good rates of pay. Local work and an opportunity of long-term employment with a friendly family run business.
If you are that exible, skilled groundworker who can also operate plant to a good standard please call, Martin on 01258 455219 or email admin@farwellplanthire.co.uk
Recruitment
ACTIVE 80’S GENT IN SPACIOUS BUNGALOW/LOVELY manageable Garden in village setting (BA22 8PL) seeks Companionship/assistance of a versatile/practical Lady for general Household/Garden support. Flexible Hours. Good Pay. Tel. Edward 07838-176135.
BLACKMORE VALE JOBS GROUP
SITUATIONS WANTED
CARE/CLEANING HOURS available day/night qualifications/ references 07919-621233
GARDENER. Semi-retired, wants few hours work. Buckhorn Weston and surrounding areas. Contact: 07968-067586
MATURE EXPERIENCED OF A MALE CARER. available locally, Yeovil, Martock & Sherborne. DBS. references, flexible, own car, non-smoker, please call or text: 01935-587019 / 07445-885122
BLACKMORE VALE JOBS GROUP
16 hours per week (worked over 2 or 3 days)
We are looking to recruit an enthusiastic and motivated individual to join our dispensing team. The successful candidate will assist in the preparation of all aspects of dispensing,stock control, ordering and re-stocking of the dispensary. Ideally the candidate will hold an NVQ 2 Pharmacy Services qualification or equivalent however training will be provided. Flexibility for additional hours to cover holiday and other absences is essential.
To see the job description and person specification please visit the vacancies section on www.meresurgery.co.uk
To apply please send a CV and covering letter to: Michele Mason, Practice Manager, Mere Surgery, Dark Lane, Mere, Wiltshire, BA12 6DT or alternatively email: michelemason@nhs.net
Telephone:
Complete care solutions
Night Care Assistant
Full time £11.44 - £12.44 per hour
Millbrook House in Child Okeford are looking to recruit a Night Care Assistant to work five nights over a two week rota, from 8.00pm until 8.00am; Week 1 - Tuesday and Friday Week 2 - Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday Overtime is also available.
You will be required to provide personal care and assistance to our residents and to complete night checks. There is a small amount of domestic work to undertake. You will be required to administer medications if required. Experience in residential care is essential for this position, but further training will be provided for the right person.
Please call us on 01258 860330 or email ginih@bramleycare.com to request an application form
Bramley
Recruitment
EXPERIENCED DENTAL NURSE WANTED
Full time Dental Nurse wanted to join our friendly team at The Bruton Dental Practice. Competitive rates of pay. Contact Alison on 01749812461 or alison@brutondental.co.uk for further details.
Independent Co-educational Boarding and Day School Nursery Prep Senior Sixth Form The Society of Heads/CISC /IAPS
Independent Boarding and Day School for Pupils aged 4 -18 GSA/CISC
OPERATIONS MANAGER
We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Operations Manager to provide leadership and management for all aspects of housekeeping, estates and transport functions as well as liaison with the school caterers.
We are seeking to appoint a School Minibus Driver to start at the end of August 2018. The role entails driving the School vehicles on designated routes collecting children in the morning and dropping off in the afternoon at prearranged points You will also assist with some basic maintenance and cleaning of the fleet The primary qualities sought are a genuine commitment to the welfare and safety of young people You must hold a valid PCV Manual, (D or D1) Licence
Hours: 20 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 0630 to 0830 and 1730 to 1930 Term Time only Rate of Pay: £9 69 per hour plus holiday pay.
The Operations Manager will take responsibility for the smooth running of day to day operations at the school to ensure that the available resources and systems are deployed effectively and efficiently. Our ideal candidate will have a proven track record in operations gained in either hospitality or facilities management. They will be expected to lead by example and to set and maintain the high standards already established in the school. Excellent interpersonal, problem solving and organisational skills are essential, as is the ability to work flexibly, maintaining a focus on quality at all times. The role requires the post holder to be capable of operating with high levels of autonomy, although you will be supported by the Director of Business Strategy and Operations. In return you will be joining a thriving and busy community, known for its warm welcome and family feel.
The school prides itself on an excellent standard of both internal and external hospitality services and events including school functions, residential and commercial lets and the full range of internal hospitality and services expected from a busy independent school. In support of various events, the Operations Manager will be expected to be flexible and on occasion, be available to work in the evenings and weekends for which compensating time off would be given.
Please send your CV with the names of two referees to the HR Manager, Leweston School Leweston, Sherborne, DT9 6EN or email: recruitment@leweston dorset sch uk www.leweston.co.uk
For further information and to download an application pack please visit our website: https://www.leweston.co.uk/explore-leweston/our-people/work-with-us
Closing date for applications: Monday 10th June 2024
An enhanced DBS check will be undertaken by the School Closing date: 15th August 2017
Interviews: w/c 17th June 2024
Claw and nail injuries
by Lynn Broom Longmead Veterinary PracticeMOST of our pets have claws or nails and are, therefore, at risk of injuring them. Injuries can vary from clean breaks causing temporary discomfort through to chronic damage involving significant pain and secondary infection.
Claws that do not wear regularly from walking need clipping to reduce the risk of them getting caught in material and damaged. Starting this at a young age and avoiding cutting them too short will ensure dogs are tolerant of this procedure throughout their lives. Dew
claws are more at risk of getting long because they aren’t in contact with the ground.
Anxious dogs, dogs with foot pain or skin allergies, or dogs with a previous unpleasant experience, may be reluctant to allow nail trimming. Antianxiety or pain-relieving medication may help make this procedure less stressful and you can discuss this possibility with your vet.
Clipping cats’ claws when they are active and go outside risks them having less climbing ability and they may fall due to the unexpected reduction in grip. Indoor cats and old cats often need their claws clipping
EXCLUSIVELY CATS 5 STAR RATED BOARDING CATTERY.
Family run, with over 35 years experience caring for all your feline family boarding needs, Semley, Wiltshire. Call 01747-854013 or view our website http://www.exclusivelycatsbordingcattery.co.uk
12 month old ‘Bubby’ needs new calm pet free home, with room to roam! Chipped, neutered, vaccinated. Contact Rebecca beckybeesknees@gmail.com
BUSYPETZ
EVERYTHING FOR OUR FURRY FRIENDS
Dog, cat and small animal food. Grain-free, vegetarian, frozen, gluten & sugar-free chews, natural treats. Soft toys, leather toys, leads & collars, coats, cool & heat pads, veterinary bedding, shampoo, towels...even microchipping! Come and get your wild bird food for the winter.
Friday 9am to 5pm & Saturday 10am to 1pm. oad Robin, Gillingham SP8 4PJ, opposite the Onestop ailable. Email: enquiries@busypetz.co.uk .busypetz.co.uk Facebook: Busypetz
COMPULSORY MICROCHIPPING for Cats & Dogs 2024 – book yours now - call or pop in store Check-a-chip service is free Call: 01747 706152
because the claws can grow round and embed in the pad causing pain, bleeding and infection.
Claws that do not wear regularly from walking need clipping
Active dogs can bang their claws on stones or similar and this can cause varying degrees of damage. Sometimes the claw is bruised, causing pain but no obvious injury.
LABRADOR PUPPIES, Black and yellow dogs and bitches, both parents have good hips, elbows, clear eyes and DNA clear for many conditions, both mother and father working type ready end of May 07880-833604
FOX RED LABRADOR PUPPIES. Pure home-bred. KC reg. Excellent pedigree. Ideal pet or working gun dog. FTC in lineage. Ready early July. Contact either 07773 254174 or 07545 379439
11 KOI CARP, pump filters, UV light and rigid 450 gallon round pond. details 01460-351434
BOXER PUPPIES looking for loving homes. Ready for collection 1st June. DT11 0SP. Call Patty 07812 162911
C.B. Brett & Son
Pet & Wildlife
Dog - Wet, Dry & Frozen Food Cat - Wet & Dry Food Bird/Hedgehog/WildlifeFood, Feeders & Accessories
Old Market Car Park, Hound St, Sherborne, DT9 3AB 01935 812107
Cracks can be present but not visible until the claw grows and may need attention if the claw becomes unstable with
GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES. Ready to go. Vaccinated. Parents can be seen. 07956-971662
LURCHER PUPS
1 dog pup Beddy x beddy x whip x grey Health checked wormed microchipped.Ready to go £450. Tel 07900-891159
CUDDLES FOR CATS reliable cat sitting in your home. Jacqui 07791 198679
BLACK LABRADOR PUPPIES. K/C registered. Well-bred in a loving family home. Used to other dogs and children. Near Shaftesbury 07816-328535
KC REG BLACK WORKING COCKER SPANIELS. Ready to go. 2 bitches, 1 dog. Champion lines. Docked and everything upto date. £1000 07391-479844
POINTER CROSS LAB PUPPIES. Ready in June. deposit required. Will be microchipped and first vaccination. £650.00 Tel: 07368-405603 (mother & father family pets)
BLUE WHIPPET PUPPIES. ready 23/6. 1st vaccination included. ready for viewing. £950. Tel: 07805-150044
time. Some significant injuries require removal of the claw at the base. This involves removing part of the last bone in the toe – which extends partly into the claw – within the cuticle and may lead to future abnormalities of claw growth.
Claws can bleed when first injured. Most will stop quite quickly but movement of broken claw sections may irritate and cause recurrent bleeding, and removal of that section is usually required. Multiple or non-healing claw injuries may suggest an underlying disease condition and x-rays or lab investigation may be required to look into
Feline toileting issues
by Raychel HillFINDING your cat toileting outside of the litter tray can be frustrating and concerning for pet owners. However, it’s essential to approach this issue with patience and understanding, as there are various reasons why cats may exhibit this behaviour. By identifying the underlying cause and implementing appropriate solutions, you can help your feline friend return to using the litter tray consistently. Here are some common reasons why your
this.
Many stable claw injuries will heal on their own. Trimming a long claw will reduce ground contact, making it less painful while it heals, and removing loose claw sections will reduce pain and bleeding and speed up healing. Pain relief will reduce excessive licking and further reduce the risk of infection developing.
If your pet has a claw injury which is significant, causing ongoing pain, bleeding excessively or not resolving, they should be seen by a vet so that appropriate treatment can be provided.
cat may stop using their litter tray:
Medical issues: Urinary tract infections, bladder stones or other health problems can cause discomfort or pain while urinating, leading cats to avoid the litter tray. If your cat suddenly starts toileting outside the tray, it’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any potential medical issues.
Stress: Changes in the household environment, such as moving to a new home, introducing a new pet, or changes in routine, can cause stress for cats and lead to litter box aversion. Creating a calm and stable environment for your cat, providing plenty of hiding spots and ensuring access to clean litter trays can help alleviate stress-related toileting issues.
MID DORSET CATS PROTECTION Cats looking for new homes
n Smudge, four years old, grey and white. Big friendly boy, not lived indoors before, no other pets
For details, please call our helpline on 01258 858644 or visit our website www.cats.org.uk/blandford. n Polly, 14 years old, looking for retirement home. A few health issues, which are being managed
Suitability: The type of litter and cleanliness of the litter tray can also influence a cat’s toileting behaviour. Cats are known for their preference for cleanliness and privacy, and they may avoid using a litter tray that is dirty or contains an unpleasant-smelling litter or be in a high traffic area. Regularly scoop the litter tray and replace the litter as needed to ensure a clean and inviting toileting area for your cat.
In some cases, inappropriate toileting behaviour may be a form of communication from your cat. Cats may urinate or defecate outside the litter tray to mark their territory or express displeasure with changes in their
environment. Understanding your cat’s body language and addressing any underlying issues, such as conflicts with other pets or changes in routine, can help prevent toileting problems. In multi-cat households, it is best to have one for each cat, plus an additional one to reduce conflict.
If you have ruled out medical issues and need guidance working on this issue, feel free to contact me to see how I can help.
n Raychel Hill BSc (Hons) MA CCAB APBC-CAB FABC ABTC-CAB is owner of Pet Peeves Animal Behaviour & Teaching (email raychel@ petpeevessomerset.co.uk).
For more details, please call our helpline 01258 858644 or visit our website: cats.org.uk/blandford (Formerly Blandford & Sturminster)
Members’ competition fundraiser for juniors
by Rebecca ThompsonTHE weather gods were kind when 88 members of Wheathill Golf Club competed in the Mary England Trophy, a fundraising competition in support of the junior membership.
It was only the second time the club had held the event and it raised £218 to help fund entry into the Somerset Junior League, which promotes competitive golf across the country at grassroots level.
The money will also allow the club to award trophies for the Junior Club Championship in June and the Junior Open on
Sunday, August 25 – entry via Golf Empire.
Elliott Tuck (junior) along with his dad, Dave, and fellow
n WHEATHILL Golf Club run a ladies matchplay knockout competition every year between November 1 and March 31.
The Tuppy Trophy annual competition began back in 1996 when past lady captain, Rachael Farthing, encouraged ladies to play during the winter months.
It was named after a muchloved family dog who was a familiar sight on the course until dogs were banned.
The competition is always highly competitive, enjoyed and entered by lots of ladies.
This year’s final was between Ann Gates and Jill Byrne, and Ann lifted the trophy.
team members Mal Green and Simon Nicholls, were the outright winners scoring 119 points in a bowmaker format.
SITUATED in the glorious Dorset countryside with outstanding views across the beautiful Blackmore Vale, Sherborne Golf Club is ranked as one of the best golf courses in Dorset.
With Sherborne recently voted as one of the best places to live in a recent article in The Times newspaper, this really is an amazing place to live and play golf.
Situated a few miles outside the centre of the town, the golf club can be a forgotten gem visitors and local residents may not be aware is open to everyone.
While the golf club is a members’ club, the golf course, driving range and clubhouse with the bar and a great food menu, are open to anyone to enjoy.
We can also cater for private functions.
A round of golf can be
booked online through the club website, www.sherbornegolfclub. co.uk, or by calling the pro shop.
We have a fantastic driving range with grass teeing areas in the summer and short game practice area with a simple to use pay by card system that is open from dawn to dusk each day for everyone to enjoy.
Our qualified PGA professional offers one-toone lessons for junior and adult golfers of all abilities.
We have a very diverse membership and are actively looking to recruit new members to the club.
We offer a wide variety of membership options to suit all ages and all budgets.
Come and see what we have to offer – call us on 01935 814431 or visit our website, www. sherbornegolfclub.co.uk.
Good catches on hot day
K & A SPRING League round 3, Melksham & Airsprungs waters (68 pegs); K & A Spring league round 3, Semmington to Beehive (68 pegs).
This round was fished in hot conditions but 11 double figure bags were taken and, in most areas, a few fish to be caught.
Winner was Mike Marsden
(PI Thatchers), who drew near the reeds at Kings Arms, and caught skimmers and bream on worms and maggots over groundbait at 11m to weigh an impressive 21-03.
Runner-up was Mick Shepherd (Sensas Oakwood Angling) who drew the end peg at the Kings Arms and
caught skimmers on red maggot and pinkie over groundbait to weigh 19-12.
Other places: 3 Gary Williamson (Sensas Devizes A) 15-14; 4 Ben Dukes (Garbolino BVMG Gold) 15-06; 5 Lee Trivett (PI Thatchers) 15-03; 6 Matt Redman (Rive Homestores) 13-11.
On the team front, PI Thatchers won the day with an
Fishing lesson for juniors
by Graham Howard DDAS Junior secretaryELEVEN Juniors fished at Harbourbridge Lakes, near Chickerell, for a coaching session hosted by Dorchester & District Angling Society (DDAS) Juniors.
Parents, juniors and coaches were bathed in warm
Vale league suffers
heavy defeat
by Avril LancasterTHE Blackmore Vale League seem likely to be ending their final season after over 100 years of local football.
The last inter-league match between the Yeovil & District League and Blackmore Vale
WINCANTON Golf Club results:
Monthly Medal – May 4: 1
Simon Lenton nett 68, 2 Chris Chapman nett 69, 3 John Atkins nett 70.
Seniors Monthly Stableford
– May 7: 1 Ray Phillips 34, 2 Simon Lenton 31 ocb, 3 Chris Dibben 31.
Seniors Back 9 Stableford – May 7: 1 Keith Williams 16, 2 John Wolstenholme 15, 3 Brian
sunshine as tutorials were presented on how to cast with a rod and reel, and casting with a feeder to a clip.
Juniors also learned how and what to look for when trying to locate fish on a typical lake.
The juniors caught fish from the smaller species to big
carp of nearly 10lb in weight and all went home tired but smiling.
For more information about DDAS Juniors, go to ddasjuniors.co.uk or contact juniors.sec@d-das.com
For fishery information, search for Harbourbridge Lakes on Facebook.
impressive 59 points from Sensas Devizes B with 52 points, and in 3rd Drennan Bordon 2 with 46 points.
Other places: 4 Garbolino BVMG Gold 45; 5 Sensas Devizes A 44.
The league is led by PI Thatchers with 150 points, with Garbolino BVMG Gold in 2nd on 136 and Drennan Bordon 2 in 3rd with 133 points.
League XI, at Ilchester FC, saw Blackmore Vale being defeated 7-0 in the Charles Goddard Cup.
The match was fondly known as “pick of the league” back in the days inter-league challenges were commonplace.
The Blackmore Vale League, that at one time had three or four divisions, even up to the late 1990s, from across Dorset and Somerset, is now down to only five teams.
White 13.
Camelot Shield – May 11: 1
Jim Stephen nett 66, 2 Chris Chapman nett 75 ocb, 3 Richard Czemerda nett 75.
Mike Parfitt Memorial Glass – May 14: 1 Trevor Mills nett 70, 2 Kees Schouten nett 74, 3 Chris Dibben nett 76.
Mike Parfitt Memorial Putter – May 14: 1 Geoff Lye nett 36, 2 Harry Eden nett 37, 3 Keith Williams nett 41.
Field & Stream
Flies pose issues for cows and sheep
by Tria StebbingTB results day came and went without drama, the hairy beasts all given the all clear and deemed to be fit and well. Babybel finally got the grooming he so badly needed, and he enjoyed it, too. His coat is now coming through a lovely deep ruby red from underneath the baby fluff.
We suddenly went from wet winter to hot summer in a matter of days. The risk from the newly hatched flies and midges is now a real prospect. Our shearer has only just finished lambing his own sheep and will now go headlong into shearing as we will all be wanting the fleece and fly risk removed as quickly as possible. The flies around the cows can stress them and cause them to become restless, meaning that they graze less and can potentially lose condition. Natural alternatives to spot on treatment include garlic, eucalyptus and lavender.
Some of our sheep suffer from sweet itch during fly season, always the same ones – it causes crusty lesions around
their ears and one gets it all over her stomach. I can frequently be found on a summer evening rubbing Summer Fly Cream into her belly to relieve the skin irritation.
Thoughts now turn to baling the grass for small bales to feed the cows next winter. We have opted to bale our own field, not currently being grazed but resting. Since grazing it down for a few years it has taken on a good thick layer of underneath thickness and is a good mix of Timothy grass and buttercup, to name a few.
It is growing fast and we have earmarked mid-June to cut and bale, subject, of course, to Mother Nature bringing back the monsoons. We have just got another tractor to help with the baling because the one we had left did not have the right bits on it – or, in other words, the lure of another piece of farm machinery was just too much!
While Chris does bits and pieces to the tractors, I will be watching the elderflower, waiting to harvest it for my yearly batch of cordial making.
It is so very easy to make and tastes lush. My recipe is: 2.5 kg of sugar; 2 lemons; 20 elderflower heads; 85g of citric acid – mine was delivered by that well known online shop. Put the sugar in a pan with the water, heat – don’t boil –add the lemon sliced. When the sugar has dissolved, bring the syrup to the boil. Leave it to cool. Wash the flower heads to get rid of bugs and add to the cooled syrup, lemons and citric
acid. Cover and leave for 24 hours.
If you put your glass bottles through a dishwasher cycle, they are sterilised and ready to use. Strain the liquid into the bottles and keep for up to six weeks. Mine does not last six weeks as I never make enough and drink it with sparkling water. Give it a go – tastes great when you are overheated having followed a temperamental baler around a field!
Event to highlight livestock attacks
FARMERS are being invited to an event near Dorchester to learn more about how to prevent dog attacks on their land and how to manage them if the worst happens.
The event at Bhompston Farm (DT2 8QN) will help them understand what to do when faced with a dog attack, how to protect their livestock, how vets can help, learn about deterrents and allow them to talk to their local Rural Crime Team.
The event, today – Friday, May 24 – from 10am-1pm, is sponsored by NFU Mutual, NFU, Dorset Rural Crime Team, Synergy Farm Health, National Sheep Association (NSA) and Liverpool John Moore University.
Speakers include PC Seb Haggett and PCSO Chris Mullens from Dorset Rural Crime Team; Emily Gascoigne, Synergy Farm Health; Gemma Harvey, NFU Dorset; Nicola Noble, NSA; and Dr Nick Dawnay, Liverpool John Moore University.
Farmers from key cases across the UK will also discuss their experiences.
The latest figures from the rural insurer NFU Mutual reveal that farm animals worth an estimated £2.4 million were severely injured or killed by dogs in 2023, up nearly 30% compared to the previous year.
South west England was the
worst-hit region in the UK by cost (£359,000) followed by the Midlands (£331,000).
Matt Uren, senior agent at NFU Mutual in Dorchester, said: “The shocking rise in the cost of dog attacks on livestock in the south west is incredibly alarming.
“This event will not only raise awareness about the impact of this crime but highlight what work is being done by the industry to help tackle it.
“All dogs are capable of chasing, attacking and killing farm animals, regardless of breed, size or temperament.
“We’re urging all dog owners to be responsible for their pet
and keep them on a lead when walking anywhere near livestock, but let go if chased by cows.”
NFU Mutual’s latest survey of more than 1,100 dog owners found more people admitted to letting dogs off leads in the countryside last year than in 2022. Fewer than half (49%) said their dog always came back when called.
Last month a private members bill, which gives police greater powers to crack down on livestock worrying, passed the committee stage in the House of Commons.
To register for the event, email nfu_south@nfu.org.uk or call 02476 939404.
A trying time for dairy – and arable – farmers
by Ruth KimberTHE weather is still affecting field work, albeit this time of year the ground can quickly dry if the sun shines and the wind blows. We have managed to plant all the maize after emptying the slurry store on to the fields and ploughing it in. Indeed, the first plants are just popping through.
Silage has practically run out, except the maize, which is reserved for the milkers, as they calve in the September. The grass behind the cows has been slow to recover, due to the cold, wet conditions. All in all, it’s been a trying time for dairy farming. The same goes for arable farmers.
Paul and I had a big meat delivery to take to Burnhamon-Sea, and as we travelled to that part of Somerset, we were shocked at the number of fields still unplanted, and those that were, were very patchy. However, lots of maize was
planted and up, most probably being grown for anaerobic digesters to provide energy for the national grid.
On top of this, the amount of land beginning taken for road improvements around Hinkley Point was huge – all lovely, red, highly productive agricultural land.
The second agricultural summit at Number 10 was held last week. The Prime Minister stated the importance of food production, saying food security was a national concern and all must be done to raise the percentage of home-grown food, including fruit and vegetables.
Welcome words, but they have to be backed up with fair prices to the grower, and regulation may be the only way to stop the loss of good agricultural land.
The SAWS scheme –Seasonal Agricultural Workers Scheme – has been relaxed,
allowing more foreign workers in to do seasonal work. This is indeed welcome – it’s no good growing if there are insufficient people to harvest.
I listened to Arla’s managing director being interviewed shortly afterwards and he said the price people pay for food will probably have to go up.
The cost of production has significantly risen – wages, fuel and the impact of climate change has hit the bottom line of many farming businesses. The cost of living has risen to the individual, but the profits seen by the supermarkets are either unchanged or continue to rise.
Food waste is still a problem, even as food has become more expensive.
Food education seems woefully lacking in many of our schools. It is so important children are taught to make nutritious, balanced, wholesome meals for their future independent living. Including how to budget and look after raw and cooked food. Some schools do an excellent job – not easy with pressure groups, health requirements and religious restrictions.
silage grass is desperate to be harvested and, I hope, by the time you read this, our first cut main crop of silage will be safely in the barn. Then the remaining young cattle can be let out for summer.
The turkey day olds for Thanksgiving will arrive next week. The cycle of farming continues.
Our church marked Rogation Sunday with a service starting in church then walking through the village, blessing the fields, gardens, farm animals, agricultural businesses and pets on the way. Many dogs and a couple of ponies accompanied us, finishing at a farm where we saw ducklings, goslings and lambs, and ending with tea and cakes!
n A car boot sale will be held at Kimbers Farm Shop in aid of MIND on Sunday, June 23. Set up 8.30am, open 10am1pm.
The hedges are green, the
n Kimbers Farm Shop, The Kitchen at Kimbers, Somerset Trading Barn. Linley Farm, Charlton Musgrove BA9 8HD. Phone: 01963 33177; www.kimbersfarmshop.co.uk info@kimbersfarmshop.co.uk; opening times Tuesday-Friday 8.30am-5pm, Saturday 9.30am-4.30pm.
We provide a friendly, local service at competitive prices. Based at Redlynch near Bruton, we supply Car, Commercial, Agricultural, Plant & 4x4 tyres and offer a 24hr breakdown service. We won’t be beaten on price.
Call us on 01749 813957 or 07971 012628 or find us at www.southwesttyreservices.co.uk
SHIPPING CONTAINERS FOR SALE
Tel: 01258 472288
Mob: 07977 936109
New and second hand containers - blue/green - all with box locks
BRAMSHAW HILL
ABERDEEN ANGUS
BULLS for sale Performance recorded and TB tested
Telephone Howard Smith on 07850 813060
TYRES AROUND LTD
Mobile Service
Agricultural Specialist
Over 35 year’s Experience NIGEL MARTIN 07921 929891
Pneumatic
Air
Hose
SHEEP KEEP WANTED. Anything considered. Tel: 07564-277083
EXPERIENCED RELIEF MILKER. Days available. Tel: 07813-264247
SHEEP GRAZING AVAILABLE, near Blandford. Tel: 07771-748494
HAYMAKING SERVICE. Small & Large Bales. Tel: 01258-880892/07980-036250
FREE TO A GOOD HOME. A pair of Aylesbury Cross Ducks, very pretty and a good layer. Sherborne. Tel: 01963-210210
MUCK HEAPS REMOVED 07977 561860
2 STABLES PLUS 2 ACRE FIELD. For rent. (2/3 further stables and acreage available) Hazelbury Bryan on secure farm. Water & electric available. £200pcm Tel: 07734-059190
QUALITY HAYLAGE, HAY. All June made. 3ft, 4ft and 6ft bales. Collect or delivered. Call Mark 07860 759996 or 01300 345293
HAYMAKING SERVICES. All size bales. round bale wrapping. 01747-85598
CONCRETE GROOVING SERVICE. Cowco Southern. Call Ted: 07970-965040
WANTED: Large barn to rent for young horses. Onsite water, (turnout) and horsebox access. Shaftesbury/ Henstridge corridor. Please call Charlotte 07809 836235 or Heather 07702 887401
R&W FENCING SERVICES
Agricultural, paddock and stock. Tel: 01258-880892 or 07980-036250
PADDOCKS FOR RENT. Melbury Abbas. Tel: 07834-871548 / 01747-850773
STUNNING 14:2HH
PIEBALD MARE COB (sire The Pink Horse), Ride and Drive, good to shoe etc, 17 years. Forward going. Great in Traffic, genuine kind pony, £3600, Telephone 01985-844894
IFOR WILLIAMS 505 horse trailer. Good Condition. new brakes, wheels & tyres. £2400.00 Tel: 07736871092
GREENSLADE TAYLOR HUNT
Forthcoming Dairy Sales
Telephone: 01278 410250. Email:
Telephone: 01278 410250. Email: livestock@gth.net
SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE
NORTH PETHERTON, SOMERSET, TA6 6DF (M5, J24)
SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE, NORTH PETHERTON, SOMERSET, TA6 6DF (M5, J24) Further details at www.gth.net
Tuesday 10th November at 10.30am with the Heifer Calves
The November Collective Dairy Sale of 305 DAIRY CATTLE
n 87 Freshly Calved Cows & Heifers from Beneknowle, Bettiscombe (x14) Birchwood (x18 Dispersal) Clevian, Dinnaton, Dorset (x11) Hinton, Huntlodge, Lilylane, Peacehay & Rothereld Farms LLP (x12, Crossbreds)
Forthcoming Dairy Sales Forthcoming Deadstock Sales
n 16 Incalf Cows from Rothereld Farms LLP (Crossbreds)
n 37 Incalf Heifers from Dayhouse, PT & JC Hinds (Pedigree), Rothereld Farms LLP (Crossbreds) & J & J Waldron
n 3 Holstein Bulls from Beneknowle & Woodstone
n 8 Bulling Heifers from Greathill & Mr D Thorner
n 40 Yearling Heifers from Sutton Hall Farms
n 52 Heifers Calves from Hinton, Pensdown, Thakeham & Mr D Thorner
To Include The Dispersal Sale of 62 HOLSTEIN AND FRIESIAN DAIRY COWS AND HEIFERS
Others £96. Overall Ave £67.10. BREEDING EWES (204) to £143 (2x). FRIDAY 30TH BREEDING EWE SALE (459) to £122. GOATS (11) to £187. Overall ave £92.64. RAMS (12) to £225 (2x). Others £136. FRIDAY 30TH STOCK RAM SALE (72) to £610 for a powerful shearling. Others £470. The West Country’s Gateway to National Abattoirs Returns for Monday 2nd November 2020
PRIME CATTLE (93) Steers UTM av 187.4ppk to 213.5ppk & £1,327.28. Others 209.5ppk, 209.0ppk, 208.0ppk & 206.5ppk. Others £1,293.63, £1,287.00, £1,283.12, £1,280.30 & £1,261.77. Heifers UTM av 180.7ppk to 214.5ppk (2x) and £1,310.50. Others 204.5ppk, 204.0ppk, 199.0ppk (2x) & 197.0ppk. Others £1,233.42, £1,205.05, £1,201.20, £1,168.50 & £1,138.32. BARREN COWS (56) Continental av 118.5ppk to 119.5ppk and £808.40. Others 117.5ppk. Native Beef av 103.6ppk to 126.5ppk and £906.75. Others 124.5ppk & 118.5ppk. Others £882.97 & £861.77. Dairy av 97.8ppk to 113.5ppk and £966.89. Others 112.5ppk & 109.5ppk. Others £945.73 & £914.63. FINISHED SHEEP (654) Lamb ave 202.94ppk to 231.0ppk and £115.00. Others 230.0ppk, 220.0ppk & 219.0ppk. Others £113.00, £108.00 (5x) & £106.50.
For full rules on market attendance and up to date sales list please refer to our website and/or Saturday market report.
NOVEMBER: Sat 7th
Comp: 47 Dairy Cows & Heifers Inmilk &/or Incalf; 12 Incalf Heifers & 3 Maiden Heifers
n NMR HERD AV: 8039 KGS. 4.11%BF; 3.34%P; SCC=127
Monthly Catalogued Sale of Organic Store Stock 10am Ring 2: Saturday 7th November Monthly Catalogued Sale of 125
n HERRINGBONE Parlour; CUBICLE Housed n CLOSED HERD for 13 years
For GDW Isaac & Son (Removed from Beer Farm, Broadhembury, Honiton, Devon)
Suckler Cows, Calves, Heifers & Bulls Approx 12.30pm Ring 1
Entries to date include:-
Sedgemoor Auction Centre
The large selection of high yielding milkers and dispersal sale cattle (including Pedigree, Commercial and Crossbred) coupled with all types of dairy youngstock makes this one of our most comprehensive sales to date just when dispersals are starting to slow down across the country. Please note that Social Distancing will be in place and we ask that only one purchaser per farming business attend. Online Bidding Available on Marteye.
(M5, J24) Telephone: 01278 410278
TOTAL STOCK FOR THE WEEK 5062
Stock from across the West Country, sold to buyers from throughout the Nation Returns for Saturday 18th May 2024
NOVEMBER: Thurs 19th
n The dispersal sale of 50 Incalf Suckler Cows (Sim, Ch, Lim, He & AAx) all pd’d to calf Feb onwards to Ped Charolais bull for NB Needham & Sons, Old Henley Farm, Dorchester (changing farming policy).
n 3 Bulls – Ch, He & Lim
DAIRY CATTLE (47) Heifers to £2500. Others £2400. Cows to £1980. Others £1750. (1188) STORE CATTLE & STIRKS - FORWARD STORES (824) Steers to £1880 (LIMX). Others £1875 (SIMX) £1840 (LIMX) £1830 (LIMX). Heifers to £1670 (AA). Others £1665 (SIMX) £1610 (CHX) & £1590 (3x) (LIMX & BRBX). GRAZING COWS (25) to £1495 (LIMX). SUCKLERS (32) to £1980 for a Simx cow (02.18) & her Limx steer calf (12.23). STIRKS (364) Steers to £1305 (AA). Others £1295 (BA) £1280 (HEX) & £1190 (CHX). Heifers to £1155 (BRBX). Others £1150 (BAX) £1070 (BA) & £1025 (BA). CALVES (270) - Beef Bulls to £620 (SIMX). Others £520 (2x SIMX) £500 (BRBX) & £485 (LIMX). Heifers to £430 (LIMX). Others £400 (CHX) £355 (2x BRBX) & £345 (CHX). Black & Whites to £290. (2409) SHEEP - STORE LAMBS (939) to £200. Others £190 & £180. Overall Ave £126.93. CULL EWES & RAMS (873) Ewes to £215. Others £208 & £200. Rams to £195. Overall Ave £120.58. COUPLES (198E & 279L) Doubles to £400 (£133.33/life). Singles to £270 (£135/life). Overall Ave £84.37/ life. GOATS (63) to £220. Overall Ave £105.87. ORPHAN LAMBS (57) to £90. Overall Ave £32.16. (93) PIGS – WEANERS (52) to £72. Overall Ave £58.29. FORWARD STORE PIGS (22) to £108. Overall Ave £72.68. CULL SOWS & BOARS (3) Sows to £140. Boars to £125. FAT PIGS (16) to £178. Overall Ave £151.88.
SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE Dispersal Sale of milking and incalf heifer portion of the 9,160 kgs CIS recorded dairy herd being 200 Holstein Friesians for MB & LC Haskell (Removed from Beaulieu Wood Farm, Dorchester, Dorset for convenience of sale).
n 42 Continental Cows & Calves – 6 Ped Lim cows & calves
n 14 Native Cows & Calves
n 58 Incalf Cows & Hfrs – 1 Ped Lim & 1 Ped He For further information contact Meg on 01278 410278
Sat 7th Fortnightly Sale of Pigs 11am
The West Country’s Gateway to National Abattoirs
Sedgemoor Auction Centre
Returns for Monday 20th April 2024
North Petherton, Somerset, TA6 6DF (M5, Junction 24)
Telephone: 01278 410278
TOTAL STOCK FOR THE WEEK 7143
Sat 14th ***CANCELLED*** Collective Catalogued Sale of Purebred Poultry **CANCELLED*** Thurs 19th ***CANCELLED*** Monthly General Sale of Antiques and Furniture ***CANCELLED***
PRIME CATTLE (78) Steers UTM av 247.1ppk to 275.5ppk & £1,865.14. Others 267.5ppk, 264.5ppk & 262.5ppk. Others £1,853.53, £1,827.39 & £1,816.70. Heifers UTM av 252.4ppk to 289.5ppk and £1,838.33. Others 276.5ppk (3x) 275.5ppk & 269.5ppk. Others £1,756.48, £1,736.42 & £1,675.35. Steers OTM av 225.5ppk to 237.5ppk and £2,036.27. Heifers OTM av 208.0ppk to 239.5ppk and £1,276.54. BARREN COWS (35) Continental av 171.5ppk to 178.5ppk and £1,394.09. Native Beef av 181.8ppk to 225.5ppk and £1,784.07. Dairy av 170.3ppk to 197.5ppk and £1,580.00. Bulls av 180.0ppk to 222.5ppk and £2,205.23. FINISHED SHEEP (908) Lambs (626) av 405.32ppk to 443.0ppk and £238.00. Others 440.0ppk, 438.0ppk & 437.0ppk. Others £236.00, £234.00 & £226.00. Hoggs
Stock from across the West Country, sold to buyers from throughout the Nation Returns for Saturday 31st October 2020
Forthcoming Special Sales
DAIRY CATTLE (73) Heifers to £2080. Others £2020. Cows to £1840. Others £1720. (1184) STORE CATTLE & STIRKS - FORWARD STORES (933) Steers to £1365 (FLE). Others £1300 (AA) £1295 (LIMX) & £1270 (LIMX). Heifers to £1265 (CHX). Others £1235 (CHX) £1200 (LIMX) £1155 (LIMX) & £1150 (HEX). GRAZING COWS (2) to £615 (LIMX). Others £580 (LIMX). SUCKLERS (4) Cows & Calves to £850 (4x). STIRKS (247) Steers to £880 (LIMX). Others £870 (3x LIMX & BRBX) £855 (BRBX) & £835 (LIMX). Heifers to £818 (LIMX). Others £720 (BRBX) & £700 (AA). CALVES (408) - Beef Bulls to £400 (CH). Others £398 (BRBX) £390 (BRBX) & £388 (BRBX). Heifers to £300 (2x BRBX & CHX). Others £285 (CHX) £278 (BRBX) & £275 (LIMX). Black & Whites to £182. Others £165. (4675) SHEEP Store Lambs (2720) to £100. Others £99, £96 & £95. Overall Ave £74.88. Cull Ewes & Rams (1197) Ewes to £137. Others £133. Rams to £166.
Sat 21st Fodder Sale 1pm Wed 25th Orange Market Dedicated Sale for bTB Restricted Cattle. Store Cattle – 15 Months & Over, Prime Cattle & Barren Cows.Stock to be booked in with the market office by 18th November. Licences to be obtained from Truro Trading Standards on 03000 200301 or Sale commences 4.30pm Fri 27th Monthly Seasonal Catalogued Sale of Breeding Ewes & Ewe Lambs 3pm Sat 28th Monthly Sale of Native Store Cattle 10am Ring 2
NOVEMBER: Sat 21st
SEDGEMOOR AUCTION CENTRE. The Collective
Seasonal worker scheme to continue
SEASONAL worker visasintroduced to make it easier for people to come to the UK for farm work - are to be extended, the Government has announced.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has introduced a number of measures after John Shropshire’s Independent
Review into Labour Shortages. The measures include extending the seasonal worker visa route for five years, until 2029, providing up to £50 million to fund new technology to support fully automated packhouses and robotic crop pickers, and creating a comprehensive strategy to
enhance skills provision and attract domestic workers to the sector.
Environment Secretary Steve Barclay said: "We have a world-class food and drink sector, and the measures announced today will strengthen this by boosting funding for the cutting-edge technology that will reduce reliance on migrant labour in the long term.
"Businesses do best when they can plan effectively for the future, which is why we’ve extended the seasonal worker visa route until 2029 to give farmers and growers the certainty they need to thrive."
NFU president, Tom Bradshaw, welcomed the news.
He said it “will be a huge relief for the horticulture and poultry sectors that rely on seasonal workers and is a brilliant win for the NFU, which has been campaigning for a long-term plan for seasonal workers for some time”.
He added: "We have seen in the past how damaging shortages of workers have been."
Recent NFU survey data showed 41% of respondents reduced the amount of food they produced due to being unable to recruit the essential workforce needed, with approximately £60 million worth of crops lost during 2022 due to labour shortages.
www.fromelivestock.com
DORSET | DEVON | SOMERSET | HAMPSHIRE | WILTSHIRE | CORNWALL | LONDON
Langham
Guide: £1,650,000
An outstanding equestrian property in a beautiful parkland setting. Substantial 5-bedroom residence (equestrian tie), grooms annexe, 18 stables, 2 barns and free draining loam soil in paddocks and a small stream, in total 26.50 acres. CTB G&A. Freehold.
Andrew Tuffin | 01258 472244
Shillingstone
Guide: £1,775,000 (whole)
190.43 acres (77.07 ha) of productive pasture and arable land in the Blackmore Vale. Level undulating land with road access, small copse, mains water, currently registered organic. Up to four lots (112–10 acres). Freehold.
Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244
Nether Compton
Guide £899,950
With a South facing garden and superb proportions, this immaculate home offers exceptionally generous living space, in a highly sought-after Dorset village. CTB F. Freehold.
Sherborne | 01935 814488
Buckland Newton
Guide: £925,000
A large detached bungalow with range of stables, outbuildings and PP for barn/workshop with stunning views over its own land and the surrounding countryside. In all 8.83 acres (3.57 ha). CTB E. Freehold.
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Sedgehill
Guide £850,000
A detached house of about 2000 sq ft with fine far- reaching views, private south-facing garden and adjoining field. In all just under 3 acres.
CTB E. Freehold.
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
DORSET | DEVON | SOMERSET | HAMPSHIRE | WILTSHIRE | CORNWALL | LONDON
PROPERTY AUCTION 20 JUNE AT DIGBY HALL, SHERBORNE AND VIA LIVESTREAM
Cashmoor Guide £30,000
An attractive parcel of pasture land measuring 1.70 acres (0.68 acres) with chalk stream frontage on the edge of the hamlet. Freehold.
Blandford | 01258 452670
Butterleigh Guide £475,000
Approximately 58.00 acres of well managed pasture land and amenity woodland. Freehold.
Tiverton | 01884 218911
Somerton Guide £195,000
A detached 3-bedroom, 2-reception cottage for modernisation together with a garage and parking. CTB: C. Freehold.
Yeovil | 01935 423526
Shaftesbury Guide £250,000
A semi-detached bungalow of non-standard construction for improvement with a lovely garden a short level walk from the centre of town. CTB: D. Freehold. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
Limington Guide £40,000
2.30 acres (0.93 hectares) of pasture land with a pond set in a single enclosure situated in the village of Limington. Freehold.
Yeovil | 01935 423526
Bournemouth Guide £65,000
A 1-bedroom ground floor flat close to West Cliff, let on AST at £9,120 pa. LH - 113 years remaining. S Charge - £1,668.12 pa. G Rent£195 pa. Wimborne | 01202 843190
Piddlehinton Guide £200,000
A 3-bedroom end of terrace cottage with a large garden (0.26 of an acre) and scope to extend (STPP). CTB: C. Freehold.
Dorchester | 01305 261008
Dorchester Guide £250,000
A Grade II Listed 4 bedroom townhouse requiring modernisation throughout, situated in the heart of the town with a walled rear garden. CTB: C. Freehold. Dorchester | 01305 261008
East Orchard Guide £210,000 22.38 acres (9.06 ha) of level pasture land with mains water and good access. Freehold. For Sale in two lots.
Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244
Henstridge Guide £125,000
A semi-detached 3 bedroom property of nonstandard construction with a generous garden offering re-development potential (STPP).
Sturminster Newton | 01258 472244
Bothenhampton Guide £225,000
A delightful 2-bedroom period cottage in good order throughout with a lovely garden. CTB: B. Freehold.
Bridport | 01308 422092
Sturminster Newton Guide £275,000
A 3-bedroom semi-detached Edwardian property requiring updating with scope for extension (STPP). Close to the town centre with a large garden. CTB: C. Freehold. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
DORSET | DEVON | SOMERSET | HAMPSHIRE | WILTSHIRE | CORNWALL | LONDON
PROPERTY AUCTION 20 JUNE AT DIGBY HALL, SHERBORNE AND VIA LIVESTREAM
West Parley Guide £315,000
A sizeable barn with full planning permission for conversion to a 3 bedroom dwelling and an attached one bedroom unit having already been converted in a convenient location. Freehold.
Wimborne | 01202 843190
Ilton Guide £395,000
A detached period cottage set in 1.04 acres with selection of outbuildings, offering scope for refurbishment /redevelopment. CTB: D. Freehold.
Ilminster | 01460 200790
Nether Compton Guide £400,000
A detached, thatched cottage retaining character features throughout and a 1.765 acre plot. CTB: F. Freehold.
Sherborne | 01935 814488
Cashmoor Guide £695,000
A substantial detached 5-6 bedroom 17th century property with a Victorian extension, gardens and a paddock amounting to 5.17 acres (2.09 hectares). Enjoys rural views over surrounding countryside.
CTB: A. Freehold.
Blandford | 01258 452670
Bournemouth Guide £325,000
A freehold block of five apartments, all let on ASTs and producing £40,860 per annum in a convenient location close to the town centre.
All flats CTB A. Freehold.
Wimborne | 01202 843190
Poundbury Guide £450,000*
An income producing office investment property producing £35,000 pa on a long lease to a charity. Leasehold – (228 years unexpired at a peppercorn rent). (*Plus VAT) Dorchester | 01305 261008
Holwell
Guide £475,000
A detached period cottage requiring renovation and improvement, with useful outbuildings, garden and a small paddock in a delightful rural setting. In all about 0.90 acre. CTB: F. Freehold. Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
East Orchard Guide £475,000
A detached 3-bedroom bungalow for renovation or replacement (STPP) with outbuildings and about 17 acres of pasture.
CTB: A. Freehold.
Sturminster Newton | 01258 473766
£315,000
Thinking of moving in 2024?
Having enjoyed a busy spring we still have many buyers registered with us wishing to purchase in the summer months within the local towns and villages. If you are considering bringing your property to the market we would be delighted to hear from you.
Please call 01963 34000 to arrange an appointment or email wincanton@hambledon.net
£275,000
On the move: It pays to be prepared
IF you’re moving home soon, these top tips from Armishaws Removals can make planning your relocation easier and help reduce moving day stress. Book your removal team early CERTAIN dates/days of the week are more popular, the closer you get to your moving day, the more likely your dates will already be booked.
Read the terms and conditions
HOW many times have you clicked “I have read the terms and conditions box” without giving it a glance? We’re all guilty of it. You might be required to unplug electricals, cover floors etc. Not being prepared could slow things down and create extra charges. Check for access issues DO a quick recce with large
vehicles in mind, tight bends, low hanging trees etc, to ensure things go as smoothly on the day.
Protect your carpets
AT Armishaws, our crews carry carpet protectors but these may not cover against everything if access is muddy. Add extra coverings before your removers arrive.
Disconnect electrical equipment
MAKE arrangements to disconnect white goods. Curtains, shelves and anything fixed to the walls should also be taken down ready to move. Declutter to save taking unwanted items with you MOVING home is the perfect time for that long promised clear out. You don’t want to pay
to take clutter with you only to have to find somewhere else to hide it!
Check and clear loft spaces
MOST removal companies are not insured to work in lofts unless boarded and lit.
Check those droopy drawers
IF you have any ‘wobbly’ furniture, get repairs done before it’s moved. The stresses of moving house can exacerbate existing structural weaknesses.
Disassemble system furniture SYSTEM or self-assembly furniture is not designed to be moved whole and often does not go back together well if dismantled. Take furniture apart carefully in advance of your move. Place screws/fixings in a bag and tape it to the furniture
so it doesn’t get lost. Ensure everything outdoors is ready to go
ANYTHING to be transported from the outbuildings or garages should be prepared in advance. Plants should either be potted or their roots contained in a plastic bin liner. Garden tools should be tied in bundles and swings, climbing frames, dismantled ready to go.
Prepare to unpack over several days
IT’S usually not possible to unpack everything at your new home in a single day. Decide what’s most important and focus on those key items.
Don’t forget to eat!
“OH, we’ll get something on the day…”. There might be delays. The last thing you need are ‘hangry’ kids and rumbling stomachs, so pack provisions to keep everyone fed and watered. Get insurance cover
IT’S essential you ensure your goods are adequately protected throughout your relocation. Book a shopping delivery WHEN you get to your new home, the last thing you want to worry about is “a big shop”. Plan ahead and book a food and essentials delivery to arrive at your new address the day after your move.
You can find more moving advice at www.Armishaws.com/ blog
Heritage does have a value
LIVING in historic town centres, such as Blandford or Wimborne, or villages with traditional buildings, could be worth the equivalent of £500 in life satisfaction, a new report has found.
Historic England, which looks out for heritage buildings, structures and places, has conducted research which shows that people who live near heritage see an uplift in life satisfaction to the value of £515 a year.
The government body said: “The positive impact of green spaces on wellbeing, the very presence of nearby historic places, benefits residents’ quality of life, whether or not
they participate in heritage activities.”
The analysis demonstrates that Grade II-listed buildings, which represent 92% of England’s historic places on the National Heritage List for England, are the main drivers of life satisfaction increases.
“This suggests that it is proximity to a wealth of everyday local heritage –rather than the presence of rare, exceptional historic places – that is responsible for driving most higher life satisfaction,” said Historic England.
The research is unique as no previous studies have quantified the wellbeing value of the very existence of heritage.
It follows similar approaches within environmental economics, which have evidenced gains from being close to urban green spaces in Great Britain and Germany.
PROPERTY TO LET
SELF-CONTAINED ACCOMODATION on quiet farm near Yeovil 01935 891817
INDUSTRIAL UNITS TO LET 1455-2183 sqft. 3 Phase. Child Okeford. 07806616607
STORAGE/WORKSHOP AVAILABLE.
Container self-storage. Indoor caravan storage. Workshop space. Varied sizes from 1,400 - 22,000 sqft at Stoke Wake, DT11. 01258 881660 – wallis@crockersfarm.com Crockers Farm Secure Storage
COMMERCIAL UNITS TO LET
Located in Wincanton - New commercial units from 1250sqft up to 10,000sqft in size with a variety of eves heights Messanine levels, offices and main road access. Enquires to: david@armishaws.com
Crossword