The New Blackmore Vale Magazine (24/04/23)

Page 23: John Blashford-Snell recounts childhood

with Jacko the monkey

Page 4: Meet Henrie Brodie, the six-year-old Mini Moto whizz!

Top nature writers headline event

Some of the country’s most popular nature writers will be appearing at a series of talks in Shaftesbury, covering topics as diverse as the miracle of flight and a search for wilderness

TWO Shaftesbury businesses are working together to bring free author events to the town this spring and summer. FOLDE Dorset, the nature-themed bookshop and gallery on Gold Hill, is collaborating with The Grosvenor Arms on a series of talks from

Parikian, fast becoming one of the country’s best loved nature writers, who will be delving into the miracle of flight; James Roberts on his search for the wildness left in our world, spanning continents and geological eras, skies and oceans, animals and birds,

Bowled over

Club celebrates 100 years of camaraderie and competition during centenary celebrations

IN 1923, the green at Gillingham Bowls Club was laid at a cost of £330. The club was supported mainly by local businessmen until 1970 when ladies were allowed to join in matches and leagues, as well as making the tea.

Initially there was only a small club house with the toilet block at the bottom of the drive. But over the years the Club has expanded, raising funds for local charities and for club improvements. Thanks to a building fund and a lottery grant, in 2002 the old hut was pulled down and the work on a new club house started.

Completed in 2003, it has changing rooms that can accommodate visiting leagues, county teams and touring sides. The main hall can seat 90 and offers the opportunity for club socials, meetings and catering. In fact, the bar and kitchen areas are in constant use.

Members have enjoyed every opportunity to just turn up and play in a ‘roll up’. For the more competitive members, the club offers informal competitions, leagues and county games.

Club members all lend a hand to look after their club and grounds. At the end of last season a company was hired to remove the old grass and re-level the surface of the green. Over winter, the newly seeded area has been carefully tended and is looking marvellous.

This year, to mark the club’s centenary, Bowls England players will challenge Gillingham members in what promises to be a fun and exciting match on Saturday, May 13 (spectators are welcome).

On May 24, Dorset County Bowlers will join Gillingham players for an afternoon match. Again spectators are welcome.

The club is holding two open days in May (Saturday 20 and Saturday 27) so if you’re want to know what the fuss is about, do have a go!

For more information please contact the club secretary Ralph Bowden on 01747 822150

High-speed Henrie!

Small but mighty Henrie Brodie is taking the sport of Mini Moto by storm

HE’S only six years old but Shaftesbury youngster Henrie Brodie has his sights set on competing in MotoGP or World Superbikes.

His dad Robert has a keen interest in motorbikes and racing, and Henrie took to two wheels 18 months ago when he had just turned five.

Henrie sits 13th out of 22 competitors in the British Mini Moto Championship this year and is looking for a top 10 finish.

The eight-race championship is staged at go-kart tracks around the country, with racing over three days every month from April to October.

The championship is designed to bring young talent in England through to British Superbikes and Moto GP.

Henrie, who is in Year 1 at Shaftesbury

CE Primary School, is the only youngster from Dorset competing at this level.

He started in the sport at M4 Minimoto Junior Race School at M4 Karting, near Chippenham, and is coached by Sarah Harris, Lucca Allen and Holly Harris, and on separate training days by Danny Webb.

He is sponsored by Quickshifter Coffee, BMW Salisbury, Marquise Alloys, Gary Stevens Electricals and R&G Racing.

Henrie would like to thank mum Nicole and sister Amae for their help and support.

Henrie Brodie competing in the British Mini Moto Championship

Above: The new and improved club house; Below: Mike Tolman, Shaun Woods, Ron Wing, Bill Emery and Peter Edwards – Men’s Pairs Cup Winners and Runners-Up 2022

Full house!

Local pre-school blown away by generosity of the community at recent bingo event

EXPLORERS Pre-School in Henstridge would like to thank everyone for the amazing support they received for their Easter bingo.

The organisers were amazed when they totted up and the grand total raised came to £1,086.84!

The money will be spent on educational activities and resources for the children.

The committee and staff would like to thank all the local businesses that supported the pre-school and donated prizes.

VE celebrations

THE Shaftesbury & District Branch of the Royal British Legion will be holding a short ceremony to commemorate the 78th anniversary of VE-Day on Monday, May 8.

Members will assemble at the town memorial in Park Walk at 10.50am for a short service at 11am, followed by a simple wreathlaying by the Mayor, and the British Legion.

Medals and decorations may be worn.

The ceremony will remember the 382,700 dead among British and Commonwealth forces in the Second World War.

Make do & mend

DORCHESTER Repair Cafe will be open at Shire Hall, Dorchester on Saturday, April 29, from 10am-midday.

The focus of this month’s Cafe is repairing clothing. As part of Rethink Fashion Dorchester week, the Cafe’s lovely volunteers would like you to bring in your broken items so that they can give them new life!

There’s a well-stocked cafe where you can have a coffee while you wait. New volunteers are always needed as repairers and more general help. To find out more, call 07870 950666, or find the Cafe on Facebook or Instagram @dorchesterrepaircafe

Coronation events around the Vale

Find a party, picnic or event near you and join in the fun this Bank Holiday weekend

May 6

Motcombe Mums and friends

Coronation Picnic

Noon: Motcombe Memorial Hall recreation ground, The Street, Motcombe, Shaftesbury, Dorset, SP7 9PA

Motcombe mums, Fran and Gemma, will be hosting a Coronation Picnic on the Motcombe Memorial Hall recreation ground – all are welcome, bring a picnic, a rug and all the children!

Marnhull Coronation Big

Lunch

11am till late: Royal British Legion Club, Sodom Lane,

Marnhull, Dorset, DT10 1HR

Everyone is welcome.

Ceremony on the big screen. Doors open from 11am. Bar open from 11am till late.

Sherborne Coronation

Celebrations

2pm to 10pm: Pageant Gardens

Live music, stalls, children’s entertainment, food and drink.

Coronation Celebration

Library Gets Lively, Dorchester

Dorchester Library and Learning Centre, South Walks House, Charles Street, Dorchester, DT1 1EE

Advance booking/ticket required. Find out more: www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/ libraries-history-culture/ libraries/libraries

Coronation Day Lego Club, Dorchester South Walks House, Charles St, Dorchester, DT1 1EE

Advance booking/ticket required. Find out more: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ lego-club-at-dorchester-librarytickets-345562937047

Sturminster Newton RBL

The Coronation will be broadcast on a big screen in the RBL. Open to all.

May 7

Codford Community Coronation Big Lunch

Noon to 5pm: Codford Village Hall and grounds, High Street, Codford

Age Concern

Age Concern

Age Concern

Age Concern North Dorset

Age Concern

East Stour Coronation Fete and Picnic

12.30pm start: East Stour Village hall and field Bring your own picnic; refreshments, games, stalls.

Blandford Coronation Big Community Lunch event in the Corn Exchange

Noon: Corn Exchange, Market Place, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 7AD facebook.com/events/s/ coronation-big-communitylunch/1643625866077952

Winterborne Stickland Big Coronation Lunch

Noon to 5pm: Winterborne Stickland Sports and Community Club, Turnworth Road, Winterborne Stickland, Blandford Forum, DT11 0LZ

A procession from the village green will include representatives from our village groups, amenities and clubs with banners, behind a horsedrawn carriage carrying the King for The Day.

A free Big Coronation Lunch will take place on the sports field, thanks to kind donations and local grant funding.

Marquees make this an allweather event. Races and sports including rounders.

King and queen procession on tractors and trailers around village hall grounds, followed by a community big lunch, rounders, children’s activities and afternoon tea.

Charlton Musgrove Afternoon

Tea Party and evening celebration

From 2pm: Charlton Musgrove Village Hall.

Zeals Coronation Lunch

Zeals Green, Zeals, Wiltshire, BA12 6NH

A free but ticketed event with mugs being given to each child to commemorate the day.

Mere Coronation Big Lunch

1pm: Wellhead Allotments, Mere Friends and relatives of allotment holders and residents of North Road are very welcome. Bring your own food and drink. Tables and benches provided.

Sherborne Coronation Celebrations

Noon to 8pm: Pageant Gardens

Concludes with a laser show.

Gillingham Coronation Procession & Big Lunch Noon to 6pm

Those wishing to take part in the procession are asked to meet at Gillingham Secondary School playing field (just inside the gates at the School Road

entrance) between 11.30am and 11.45am.

Royal themed fancy dress is optional but welcome!

The procession will start at School Road then make its way down the High Street and stop by the Town Meadow where the mayor Councillor Sharon Cullingford will say a few words and the clergy will say a prayer for King Charles and Queen Camilla before dispersing.

Following the procession there will be the Coronation Big Lunch on the Town Meadow. Bring a blanket or chair and picnic – food and drink will be on sale if you prefer.

At 3pm the crowning of the Carnival Royalty will take place. There will be music for all ages and children’s activities, including face painting. The event will close at 6pm.

Buckland Newton Coronation Picnic

1pm to 5pm: The Parish Field, Buckland Newton

Bring your own picnic, tables and chairs and decorate your table in a red, white and blue theme.

Admire the colouring competition entries from the school and join with friends and family to play rounders, and take part in a treasure hunt around the village.

Wincanton Coronation Big Lunch

9am to 2pm: Cale Park Recreation Ground

A free family fun event featuring games, circus skills, bushcraft skills, bouncy castles, face painting, arts and crafts, barbecue and picnics, bar.

May 8

Fontmell Magna

12-5pm at Springhead

A BYO picnic from midday onwards – bring your own food, chairs and a rug. Children’s crafts from 2.30pm–3.30pm; teas served from 3pm–5pm.

Gillingham Community Spring Clean

10am to noon: Gillingham Town

Hall, SP8 4QR

Gillingham Town Council is organising a community spring clean event, as part of the Big Help Out – an nationwide initiative aimed at encouraging more people to volunteer in their comminuties. Equipment will be provided. If you would like to join in, contact Gillingham Town Council on 01747 823588 to register your interest.

Sturminster Newton

Coronation Celebration

11am to 1pm: Community Litter

Pick. Meet at the town council office.

1pm to 5pm: Sturminster Newton RBL family fun and games, teas coffee and cakes, food from The Pizza Box and Pinky’s, plus live music.

May 9

Coronation Celebration

Rhyme Time in the park, Dorchester Borough Gardens, Cornwall Rd,

Dorchester, DT1 1RG

Advance booking/ticket required. Find out more: www. dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

May 10

Super Seed Celebration, Dorchester Library Charles Street, Dorchester, DT1 1EE

Suitable for children under 5 years of age, accompanied by an adult. No booking required. Find out more: www. dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

Collectors scoop up ceramic art

The personal collection of celebrated Dorset potter Richard Batterham exceeds expectations at auction

THE collection of one of Dorset’s best-loved potters has doubled expectations at auction to sell for just under £120,000.

The personal collection of Richard Batterham included his own works as well as those by friends including Bernard Leach, Shoji Hamada and John Maltby. The 236 lots came up for sale at Woolley and Wallis in Salisbury on March 23, where specialist Michael Jeffery has been selling Batterham’s work for the last 20 years.

“Richard Batterham was very highly regarded by his contemporaries and is often referred to as ‘the potters’ potter’,” Michael Jeffery commented. “The exceptional results that were achieved demonstrate the popularity of both the man and his work.”

Batterham’s first introduction to clay was at the age of 13 while at Bryanston School near Blandford Forum. He set up his own pottery in Dorset in 1959, where he continued to produce stoneware for the next seven decades, counting

Sir David Attenborough and Nigel Slater among the collectors of his work.

Many of Batterham’s own pots included in the auction had previously featured in the retrospective exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum, which had followed his death in 2021. Highlights included a large beer jar and cover in an ash glaze that realised £4,375; a large fruit dish with a black rim at £3,500; and a tall stoneware bottle vase, also at £3,500.

“It was Richard’s wish that his collection would be passed on to private collectors who appreciated studio pottery,” said Michael Jeffery. “After speaking to many of the buyers, and with only one piece left unsold, there is little doubt that his wish has been granted. This auction was arguably the last chance for collectors to acquire a piece of his work direct from his pottery and they have responded accordingly.”

The sale of the collection concluded with a premium-inclusive total of £118,388.

Spring has sprung

FUN was had by all at Mere Spring Fair, held earlier this month at Mere Social Club.

There was musical entertainment, children’s activities and a cafe, all enjoyed by the 200-plus adults and children who attended and helped raise money for the Stars Appeal, which supports Salisbury District Hospital’s neonatal ward.

Charity plant sale

THE Children’s Society plant sale will be held this year on Thursday, May 11, from 10am until 3pm at 8 Grosvenor Road, Dorchester, DT1 2BB.

The annual plant sale has become a popular event in the Dorchester Branch of the Children’s Society fundraising calendar, and the organisers would like to thank Jane and Nigel Culliford for their hospitality.

In preparation for the sale, any plant donations will be gratefully received, either on the day or beforehand and can be delivered to Jane Culliford (Grosvenor Road), Annette Aldridge (16 Manor Road) or Rita Kennett (5 Queens Avenue). Collection can also be arranged by ringing Rita on 01305 265432.

Be a binner winner!

LITTER pickers in Dorset could win a £100 prize for doing the right thing, thanks to a new lottery competition.

Dorset Council and LitterLotto have joined forces to launch a new initiative aimed at tackling littering – and to reward people doing their part to keep the county clean.

The partnership will see users of the LitterLotto app given the opportunity to win an additional £100 each month, on top of £1,000 weekly jackpot and spot prizes already available.

LitterLotto uses gamification to encourage citizens to dispose of litter properly and has been making waves in the fight against littering. The app allows users to keep tabs on the amount of litter they dispose of as well as a chance to win a prize on each submission. Each entry also goes into the draw for the weekly and monthly jackpots.

The scheme was launched in Dorset last year and has already seen local residents win cash prizes, including a keen litter picker in Sherborne who won £100.

Simon Jacobs, director at LitterLotto, said: “I’m proud to see LitterLotto and Dorset Council working together to keep Dorset looking its best. The partnership will bring innovative solutions and make a positive impact in the community, while also making the experience fun and rewarding for everyone.”

High-tech help at hospital

Consultant surgeons at Yeovil hospital will be assisted by a cutting-edge robot during certain procedures

A ROBOT will soon be helping with operations at Yeovil Hospital.

The main theatres at Yeovil Hospital will be home to the device, following news the Somerset NHS Foundation Trust had received funding for the new surgical system.

Surgeons and theatre teams in Yeovil are celebrating news of their device – a da Vinci Xi surgical system – the second in the county.

Consultant colorectal surgeon Claudia Reali, who has completed her training with the system and will be one of the first to use the robot, said: “I am absolutely over the moon that we will be receiving the da Vinci system.

“While a robot may sound like it does all the work, this isn’t the case. As a surgeon, I will still be performing the operation but the robot will translate my hand movements at the console in real time, delicately bending

Platinum Award-Winning Care 2022

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

and rotating the instruments while performing the procedure.

“The tiny instruments can move just like a human hand, but with a greater range of motion so we can be less invasive during intricate surgeries.

“The team is rightly excited because we know this will be hugely beneficial for our patients and their recovery.”

Claudia will be able to use the robot for bowel cancer patients almost straight away and the team is looking to develop the system’s use into gynaecology, as well as exploring the possibilities other areas including general surgery and urology.

Yeovil Hospital site medical director and consultant urologist, Paul Foster, added: “This is fantastic news for our surgical teams in Somerset and is a great step forward for surgery in the county.

“By embracing the latest cutting-edge technology, we can provide the best possible care for our patients.

“The news has also been a fantastic boost for the teams involved as well as our wider colleagues. You’ve never seen such an excited bunch of surgeons.”

Da Vinci systems are used in a range of surgical specialities including urology, gynaecology, colorectal, thoracic and head and neck.

There are more than 34,000 independent studies that suggest robotic-assisted surgery can offer patients demonstrated benefits compared with open surgery.

These can include reduced blood loss, reduced risk of infection, fewer complications, a reduced length of stay in hospital thanks to the improved recovery time, and a reduced chance of readmission.

“Your staff are exemplary in every way. They care for my every need, showing genuine kindness and always go above and beyond the call of duty. The excellent chef caters for my special diet - all cooked to perfection. I couldn’t ask for anything more.”

Comfort & elegance

Current resident

Loyal staff

Stunning views

Consultant surgeons Jonathan Ockrim, Professor Nader Frances, Claudia Reali, Paul Foster and John Spearman are among the team members delighted by news of the new robot

Masks not needed as cases decline

With cases of Covid-19 falling, safety measures put in place during the pandemic are gradually being dropped

MASKS are no longer be mandatory at a Dorset hospital.

Dorset County Hospital, in Dorchester, has announced it will no longer require staff, visitors and patients to wear masks as cases of Covid-19 are falling across the county.

Many other healthcare settings in the community, such as GP surgeries, have already stepped back from making masks compulsory, the hospital said.

Surgical masks will still be available in main entrances for anyone who wishes to wear one – and anyone suffering from symptoms such as coughing or sneezing is encouraged to wear a mask to protect others from infection while in the hospital.

Meanwhile, masks will still be required in some clinical areas to protect patients who have lowered immunity.

There will also be a requirement to wear

masks and enhanced PPE (personal protective equipment) in any areas treating certain respiratory infections, the hospital said.

Dorset County Hospital’s chief nursing officer and director of infection prevention and control (IPC), Jo Howarth, said: “Our priority remains patient safety. Although masks will no longer be mandatory in most clinical areas, we will still be following IPC

vulnerable patients safe.

“Mask wearing will be a personal choice for people visiting most areas of our hospital and we will still have masks available at entrances for anyone wishing to take extra precautions.

“Our usual IPC guidance about washing or gelling your hands remains crucial in minimising the spread of infections within the hospital environment.”

Shaftesbury: 01747 851 476

Longmead Industrial Estate, Shaftesbury SP7 8PL

Warminster: 01985 219 200

5-6 George Street, Warminster BA12 8QA

Amethyst and diamond rose gold cluster ring £1050

White | 8 High

| Yeovil | Somerset | BA20 1RG

| shop@clementwhite.co.uk

Jewellery Repairs | Watch Repairs | Commissions | Restringing

Calling all gardeners

CONSERVATION charity The Dorset Gardens Trust has launched a Gardener of the Year award with a prize of £750 for the winner.

The charity works to protect the county’s historic parks and gardens for future generations, and the award is open to all professional gardeners in Dorset.

The award is being launched in honour of William Gueterbock (19302022) in recognition of his contribution to the Dorset Gardens Trust over the many years he spent as founder member and president.

If you know a gardener you think deserves an award, or you would like to nominate yourself, you can visit the trust’s website, dorsetgardenstrust.co. uk/award, for full details of the prize and how to apply.

Applications for 2023 are open until July 31 and the winner will be announced in December.

Air your laundry

The Great Dorset Pants Fence is replenished following the loss of smalls in the recent storms – including Beryl’s iconic thong

A DISPLAY of undergarments pegged to a fence at Gorcombe Extreme Sports, in Thornicombe, to raise awareness of ovarian, prostate, cervical and testicular cancer, has been updated.

Named the Great Dorset Pants Fence, it is overseen by the Blandford Evening WI.

“After barely surviving the wind and rain of this past winter and the loss of so many frillies to the trees – sadly including Beryl’s thong – the Great Dorset Pants Fence was looking a little sad, so the Ladies of Blandford Evening WI gathered at Gorcombe Extreme Sports this week, armed with new pegs and fresh contributions to give the Pants Fence a makeover for the summer season,” a spokesperson said.

“Along with a new banner and even more panties, it is now possible to contribute as you hang your pants with pride by using the QR code supplied by Dorset Cancer Care Foundation.

“The fence is now waiting for you to produce your fabulous frillies and your

brightest boxers to raise awareness of the symptoms of ovarian and cervical cancer, of prostate and testicular cancer and to make the statement, cancer will be beaten and to remember those for whom a cure was not found in time.”

After their rehanging efforts, the group retired to the Good Life cafe for well-earned tea and homemade cake.

Blandford Evening WI thanked Gorcombe Extreme Sports, Cheap Printing Dorset, Bailie House Warehouse and Indulge Catering for their continued support.

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

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

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

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

Showroom in Orchard Park Garden Centre,

Showroom in Orchard Park Garden Centre,

Gillingham,SP8 5JG (Showroom by appointment only)

Gillingham,SP8 5JG (Showroom by appointment only)

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

Showroom in Orchard Park Garden Centre,

Gillingham,SP8 5JG (Showroom by appointment only)

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

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

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

Gillingham,SP8 5JG (Showroom by appointment only)

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

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

Telephone 01747 826888

Telephone 01747 826888

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

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

Telephone 01747 826888

www.valecraft.co.uk

Telephone 01747 826888

Gillingham,SP8 5JG (Showroom by appointment only)

Gillingham,SP8 5JG (Showroom by appointment only)

www.valecraft.co.uk

www.valecraft.co.uk

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

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

Open Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone 01747 826888

Conservatories, Solid Roofs, Bi-Folds, Sealed Units, Windows, www.valecraft.co.uk

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

Telephone 01747 826888

Tel: 01747 826888

Climate control

Wincanton centre offers information, advice, workshops and art around the issue of climate change at a special fair this May

ELEMENTS, Wincanton’s first climate fair, is inviting groups and individuals with an interest in sustainability to get in touch.

The event will offer practical information, advice, workshops, art and films for adults and children, to encourage everyone to engage and think about how they can make a difference through their own actions.

It is at the Balsam Centre on Saturday, May 27, from 10am-2pm and is being organised by the centre’s Good Stuff project team.

Project lead James Remington hopes the fair will inspire the community to change the collective view on the climate crisis.

“Small changes on a big scale have a huge impact,” he said. “We believe that positivity and a willingness to do our bit is much needed.

“We would like to share information and resources to help people make changes that are easy, affordable and manageable to pave the way for a better, more sustainable future.”

The Balsam Centre is now looking for community groups, small businesses, charities, artists and musicians from Wincanton and the

surrounding area to participate in the day.

“We welcome enquiries from anyone with an interest in sustainability matters who would like to find out more about taking part in Elements,” said James. “We hope the fair will provide a hub for ideas sharing and networking opportunities to allow people to come together to bring about positive change.”

If successful, it is hoped that Elements: Wincanton’s Climate Fair will become an annual event in the town’s calendar.

Anyone who would like to find out more about participating in this year’s event can contact James at jamesremington@balsamcentre.org.uk, or fill in the enquiry form on the fair’s website, www.elementsclimate.co.uk

Cadets come out in force

Affiliation ceremony shows the value of army cadets

LINKS between the Wincanton branch of the Royal British Legion and the Wincanton detachment of the Army Cadet Force (Army Air Corps) have been cemented at an affiliation ceremony.

The event was held at King Arthur’s Community School in the town on April 17.

Wincanton Army Cadets have played a key role for several years in supporting the British Legion during Poppy Appeal, Remembrance Parade and Service.

One Cadet has carried the Union flag in the parade and cadets perform readings during the Remembrance Service.

The cadets have also been helped out at other RBL events.

The Agreement of Affiliation reads: “We, the undersigned, having a clear understanding and respect for the aims and objectives of each other’s respective organisations, do hereby agree to provide mutual support and encouragement within our community, and when requested and practicable, do hereby agree to provide help and support in achieving those aims and

On your feet

The Age Concern Dorset foot clinic (£30 for 30 minutes, cash only) takes place on alternate Wednesdays at the office in Stour Connect, Bath Road, Sturminster Newton. Please ring 01258 475582 to book your appointment.

objectives.”

It was recognised with the signing of certificates by Wincanton and District RBL chairman Rob Dickinson and Sara Gill, commanding officer of Wincanton Army Cadets.

Somerset RBL county chairman Robert McDonald was also present along with other members of the Wincanton and District RBL branch committee.

Robert gave an interesting speech on the importance of the affiliation and the pride of Somerset having such a strong bond with many cadet forces.

Branch secretary Steve Lee said: “Having worked with the cadets for several years now it made perfect sense to carry out the affiliation – their help over the past few years has been invaluable and their enthusiasm is to be commended.

“Working alongside youth organisation is such an important part of ensuring that we continue to remember and support our Armed Services past, present and future.”

The Balsam Centre, the setting for Wincanton’s inaugural Climate Fair

Rob Dickinson and Robert McDonald meet the cadets

Over the moon

A Sherborne pub is celebrating after raising more than £10,500 for Parkinson’s UK with a series of events over the last year

STAFF and patrons of the Hunter’s Moon in Middlemarsh are celebrating after raising £10,506.65 in 2022 for Parkinson’s UK. The events, enthusiastically supported

by pub patrons and the wider community, included Easter bingo, summer and Christmas markets, a monthly quiz and many music nights, as well as a 24-hour cycle challenge, Bikers for Action SW.

“The Hunter’s Moon chose to support Parkinson’s UK because a very good friend of mine, David Ball, starting showing signs of Parkinson’s,” says Landlord Dean Mortimer.

“Over a couple of years he had to come to terms with a lot of difficult obstacles for his family and himself.

“I’m glad to say that Dave is in a happier state of mind with the help and support of Parkinson’s Australia, The Michael J Fox Foundation and of course the local hub and

his nearest and dearest.

“We at The Hunter’s Moon soon realised that so many more of our friends and customers had or knew someone that as been touched by Parkinson’s. One of which was our dearest friend Pat Richardson, who gave so generously to the fund and started the 24-hour cycle challenge.”

The Hunter’s Moon would like to thank everyone who has supported their efforts over the years, including (but not exclusively) customers and staff, Tony for the use of his bingo machine and suppliers and businesses for donating prizes, Middlemarsh Cycling Club, Bridgewood Camping, Twisted Cider, Jim Brooks Electricals, G3 Valeting, Hunnybuns, Terry and Bev Ingram and friends, Rock and Road Yeovil, DJ Alber, stall holders and customers of both the summer and Christmas markets, quiz masters and participants (Lenny the dog), Bikers for Action SW, Ben Waters, Jack Daniels, David Graham and The Eskimo Brothers, BUZZ, and Lest We Forget Lodge 7222.

A special thanks goes out to Emma, Amy, Neve and friends

Staff, patrons and supporters of the Hunters Moon in Middlemarsh shout about their fundraising success

Pay more to park

Council promises changes to parking charges will hit tourists not residents, as increases come into force

PARKING charges at Dorset Council-run car parks are

Cllr Ray Bryan, Dorset Council’s portfolio holder for highways, travel and environment, said income from car parking is reinvested into the running of the parking service and maintenance of car parks and on-street parking places, with any surplus spent on highway improvements and public transport.

“We have designed the tariff increases so they have the least impact on Dorset residents and workers, while bringing in extra income to help us meet the rising costs of running our parking service and maintaining our car parks,” he said.

“The increases are limited to those car parks mainly used by visitors to the area, and encourage people to stay longer.

“We have also frozen charges for residents’ permits and the prices of our short stay and flexi use car park permits are unchanged.”

As well as changes to tariffs and parking rules, all car park and on-street pay and display machines are also being replaced by the end of the summer. The new machines provide customers with more payment options, including cash, card, Apple Pay and Google Pay and online app. Wifi will also be improved in car parks with poor phone signals.

Cllr Bryan said: “We understand the importance of ensuring that all payment methods are as easy and convenient as possible, so we’re taking steps to address any potential connectivity issues.

“Any car parks with poor phone signal will be fitted with wifi hotspots, allowing customers to connect and make payment quickly and securely. Thank you for your continued support as we work to make these upgrades.”

There’s a full list of Dorset Council car parks and the new tariffs and rules at www. dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/newparking-charges-2023

Sung in French with English surtitles

with

The home of Country House opera in South West England featuring renowned soloists, a full orchestra and a large chorus of emerging young artists

Original design by Augusto Ferri for the first Italian production of Le roi de Lahore in 1878 | Archivio Storico Ricordi

Marquee bar | Picnics | Formal Dining

Crafty quilters

AN exhibition of quilts and associated items by the Merebased Castle Hill Quilters, on Saturday, April 22, was a roaring success.

The Grove Building saw a steady stream of visitors between 10am and 4pm, curious to see what the group members have been making. Items were available for sale, and there was a tombola, a quilt raffle and a pop-up cafe.

Gill Grout, pictured below, is seen pointing to the large quilted centre she made, which forms part of a large quilt permanently on display.

Our loose Canon

On the separation of politics and religion

by Canon Eric Woods

ON Sunday, July 2 this year I hope to celebrate 45 years of ordained ministry. Throughout that time, I have always tried to keep party politics out of my sermons and writings. The operative word here is “party”. I do not believe that it is any part of my calling as a priest to embrace or promote the manifesto of any political party. In his book Christianity and Social Order written in 1941, William Temple – then Archbishop of York, a year before his translation to Canterbury – said this:

“At the end of this book I shall offer, in my capacity as a Christian citizen, certain proposals for definite action which would, in my private judgement, conduce to a more Christian ordering of society; but if any member of the Convocation of York should be so ill-advised as to table a resolution that these proposals be adopted as a political programme for the Church, I should in my capacity as Archbishop resist that proposal with all my force, and should probably … rule it out of order.”

Wise words. Note that Temple does not say that Christians should keep out of politics. The life of the “polis” – which is simply the Greek word for “city” – concerns us all because we are all part of it. When St Paul wrote to Timothy at the height of the

persecution of Christians by the Roman Emperor Nero, he urged Timothy to ensure “first of all that petitions, prayers, intercessions and thanksgivings be offered for all men; for sovereigns and all in high office, that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in full observance of religion and high standards of morality.” Paul did not want Christianity to be an individualistic, private, hole-in-the-corner affair; he did not believe that God was interested only in the fag-end of life after everything to do with politics and society had been subtracted. No: he believed that the whole of life was of concern to God, and should be offered to God in our prayers. In other words, the agenda for our prayers has to be set by the world.

But I still doubt the wisdom of clerics who venture into party politics, for that will always be divisive. So please believe me that I am not being partisan when I express concern that one of our major political parties, in a series of aggressive advertisements, appears to be taking the level of political debate deep into the gutter. That the leader of that party not only defends but boasts about these “attack” advertisements worries me very much indeed. I sincerely hope that the leaders of our other political parties will not feel motivated to reply in kind.

Very soon our Charles III will be crowned as our King. In the Accession Service there is a prayer that God might “give us grace seriously to lay to heart the great dangers we are in by our unhappy divisions”. It is a prayer no less urgent today than in the turbulent times when it was first written.

Year round family space

With many of us now working from home why not create some much needed family space by adding a new conservatory or replacing the roof or your existing one with our unique, thermally efficient solid roof. Warm

Photo by Adrien King on Unsplash

Complete care solutions

Time to celebrate

Spring is a time of renewal and rejuvenation and at Bramley Care, we are excited to welcome the season with open arms. After a long winter, we are looking forward to the warmer weather, longer days and blooming gardens, and what better way to celebrate than with a Coronation garden party!

Our gardens at Bramley Care are most certainly a great addition to our wonderful homes. Lovingly maintained by our dedicated team they are now starting to spring to life. With their safe and level paths, many raises flower beds, garden benches and garden rooms, they offer a beautiful place to enjoy a cup of tea in the warm spring sunshine.

As the memories of the lockdowns slowly fade, we are looking forward to celebrating the Coronation of our new King Charles, this will be our first garden party since before the lockdown and the sense anticipation and excitement is building. At Bramley Care, we understand the importance of social connections and our garden parties provide a fantastic opportunity for our residents to dress up in their finest attire, enjoy music and entertainment in the sunshine, connect with one another and form new friendships, all while enjoying the beautiful spring weather and celebrating a historic event.

We believe that a real ‘home from home’ is one that offers everything that reminds one of their own home and a beautiful garden is most certainly an important part of that happiness. At all three of our Bramley Care residential homes, our wonderful gardens are a true complement to the comfortable and luxurious rooms and communal spaces.

At Bramley Care we offer a comprehensive choice of care services. Our domiciliary care service offers individually tailored care packages in one’s own home. Our care homes offer permanent residence, respite or convalescence stays, which allow a carer to enjoy a wellearned break, or to provide an opportunity for a trial stay to experience the care and comfort that our wonderful team of carers can provide to those who find themselves struggling to continue living at home.

If you, or a loved one are thinking about care for now or in the future, please contact us or pop in to one of our homes for a chat over a cup of tea and find out what we can offer you. We would be delighted to welcome you to our community.

Advertising feature

New Website Launched for GoodOaks Homecare

GoodOaks Homecare have unveiled their new website to clients, families and care teams. After months of careful planning, editing, research and preparation, the quality homecare franchise has overhauled their website to refresh the brand and reflect its growing reputation in the industry.

The company worked closely with industry experts to develop a visually appealing website and one that communicates the brand as well as being easy to use and navigate. They achieved this by undertaking customer workshops, conducting interviews and surveys.

Live-in Care you can rely on

The users are at the heart of the new website, with a strong focus on users finding their local offices, helpful information and subsequently enquiring via the site.

Ben Ashton, Co-founder of GoodOaks said: “The unique way in which we provide care, the GoodOaks Way, is reflected brilliantly in the new site; we’re excited to share the site with the world and already have plans on how we can improve its’ performance. “Our compassionate team of care professionals take real pride in everything they do and we are confident that our new website will help even more people to access the great care and support, provided by GoodOaks, in the comfort of their own homes.”

To view the new GoodOaks website visit www.goodoakshomecare.co.uk or call 01202 125882 to speak to the GoodOaks care team.

Our live-in care professionals can help with:

• Meal Preparation

• Medication

• Personal Care

• Companionship

• Help around the home

• And much more…

To find out more call or visit: enquiries@goodoakshomecare.co.uk 01202 125882 goodoakshomecare.co.uk/ bournemouth

A stately spruce up

Expert conservators are hard at work cleaning the house and contents at National Trust property Stourhead

A MAJOR spring clean is taking pace at Stourhead.

Members of the conservation team at the National Trust property, near Mere, have been hard at work in the house and grotto.

In the garden, layers of mud that have collected on the cobbled floor of the magical Grotto over the centuries have been cleared - often using small tools and toothbrushes, before repair work can begin on the collapsed 18th Century drain beneath the floor.

Meanwhile, in the house, the saloon is getting an in-depth conservation clean.

“We start at the top and work our way down, leaving nothing unchecked, undusted or in need of attention,” said Peta Henley, collections and house officer.

“We will have a small scaffold up at the back of the room to be able to reach the ceiling and will be using the teletower scaffold to do the other high work.”

Preventive conservation work will also soon be taking place inside one of Britain’s most famous temples, the Pantheon, which was designed by the architect Henry Flitcroft and built between 1753 and 1754.

Also known as the Temple of the Gods, the Pantheon houses historic artefacts such as the famous marble Hercules by sculptor Michael Rysbrack, an antique 2,000-year-old statue of Roman Empress Livia Augusta and eight delicate friezes by Benjamin Carter.

The work will keep the condition of the objects stable as they come under threat from ‘agents of deterioration’ such as light levels, wear and tear and humidity.

The garden at Stourhead features three temples which are cleaned biannually by a team of conservation staff, taking anywhere from one day to three weeks each.

Cleaning techniques vary from vacuuming to eye level dusting and full statue cleans, all using specialist equipment.

The buildings are continually monitored and larger projects such as work to preserve the exterior stonework are undertaken as required.

“Work to protect and conserve the collection doesn’t stop year-round, even when the house is closed to visitors during the winter,” Peta added.

“The team are currently hard at work in the temples, Grotto and the house to look after the rooms and objects with extra special care, to ensure that these special places can be enjoyed by everyone, forever.”

National Trust/Lucy Fenna

The Great Canny Brook Expedition

Colonel John Nicholas Blashford-Snell CBE is a former British Army officer, explorer and author. He founded Operation Raleigh and the Scientific Exploration Society. Here, from his ‘base camp’ in Motcombe, he recounts a childhood adventure

by John Blashford-Snell

MY first expedition was to a sluggish, tree-lined stream known as the Canny Brook that ran west-east behind the Baggally meadows, filled with old tin cans, broken prams, cycle frames and cider bottles.

But to the young of Hereford’s Holy Trinity Parish in 1944 it might have been the Nile or the Niger.

At our Saturday morning meetings in my father’s vicarage loft the choristers debated the need to investigate this mysterious waterway. There were a great many hazards and dangers. Apart from a colossal, ill-tempered bull that roamed the fields flanking the brook, enormous adders were known to inhabit the long grass – Mrs Tomkins’ cat had died in awful agony after a tussle with one of these serpents – and the impenetrable brambles were thickly sown with giant stinging nettles and rusty barbed wire.

Now that the likelihood of the Hun invading Hereford had receded, we needed to face a new challenge and resolved to launch an expedition to explore the Canny Brook. Clearly a boat would be needed, and provisions, plus weapons for defence against hostile gangs of scrumpers known to inhabit the lower reaches.

So it was in September of that year that 10 intrepid boys and girls of the church choir lugged a home-made punt across the fields. Old Mrs White had given us a pot of strawberry jam and we took half a loaf of bread, margarine and two bottles of Mr Meredith’s special ginger pop. My mother added a bag of sweet pears and a hard-boiled egg.

The boys made new bows from the churchyard yew and our catapults used some rubber found beneath the counter of the corner shop. Several female members of the team had generously offered to cut the elastic from their knickers but fortunately this did not prove

The Holy Trinity Gang

necessary. A long spear was fashioned from a clothes-line prop and held in reserve in case we were attacked by the crocodile that Colin was certain lived in the bushes.

At last, all was ready, and the expedition moved off. Stores and equipment, plus the smaller members, went on the punt, now flying the church’s flag of St George. The rest, the warriors, marched alongside on the banks singing ‘Onward Christian Soldiers’. The vicar’s pet monkey, a ferocious beast named Jacko, came too, to act as a scout, leaping from tree to tree ahead of the column. When farmer Raymond’s ferocious bull appeared, he was driven off by my mother’s spaniel, aptly named Crackers, which hurled itself with great courage at the snorting monster. The problem was that Crackers was almost blind and, having savaged a couple of fence posts, fell into the stream whence he was rescued by the punt crew.

So our voyage of discovery continued gathering important scientific data on the fauna and flora, the state of the blackberry crop and the location of the best eating apples. Derek caught a huge minnow which was kept alive in a jar of water and would be cooked later, back at base camp. Ray almost captured a newt, but its tail came off in his hand. “Never mind, I don’t like newts anyway,” muttered his fervent admirer, pimply Pam.

Jacko alerted us with loud chattering to the scrumpers, lying in ambush in the marsh north of King’s Acre, but the cowardly lot made a poor showing when our volley of arrows and fire-hardened conkers from our catapult fell among them. With a cry of ‘Remember Breinton’ – a previous engagement when we had thrashed a rival choir – our warriors charged into the enemy, fists flying, scattering them over the allotments.

One luckless oaf was cornered by Jacko, seized and dragged screaming back to be debagged and keel-hauled beneath the punt by

the girls.

After one dipping he sang like Miss Gibson’s canary, telling us the exact strength of his gang, the location of their den and, most importantly, the whereabouts of a patch of edible horse mushrooms the size of dinner plates. Some wanted to take him back to Holy Trinity as a slave, but he refused to walk, and being dripping wet was not welcome in the boat, so we released the wretch with a stern warning inscribed on his forehead in indelible pencil: ‘Canny Brook is Holy Trinity land, trespassers beware’.

Alas at this point our faithful craft became waterlogged and had to be abandoned but it was a happy band of choristers that trudged back to the vicarage with a load of looted apples, a wet dog, a minnow and a posy of wildflowers for my grandmother. “We went all the way to White Cross to get these for you, Granny,” I fibbed. “What sweet, thoughtful children,” the old lady smiled.

John Blashford-Snell’s recently published book From Utmost East to Utmost West is available priced £19, including postage – to order your copy, email jenny@ses-explore.org.

Jacko the lookout monkey and Crackers the almostblind spaniel

Off the hook

Two new angling lakes – carp and coarse – in Dorset are stocked and ready to fish, but with just five guest passes a day up for grabs you’d better get in quick!

ANGLERS can now enjoy top-class fishing at two new lakes that the Dorchester & District Angling Society (DDAS) has created at Silverlake Dorset.

The club was informed about eight years ago that the four-acre lake they leased on what is now the Silverlake Estate – formerly Warmwell Quarry – would be converted into a wildlife marsh/ nature reserve, and that a new lake would be provided for them elsewhere on the estate.

The club was given the same acreage as the old Heath Lake and asked for two lakes next to each other, producing a design for a boomerang-shaped lake and a kidney-shaped pool set within the arc of the boomerang, both with islands.

Lysander Lake for coarse fish is about three acres in size and will eventually have 35 fishing platforms, and the 1.1-acre Lucy’s Pool will have four platforms with fishing areas marked for each peg.

Lucy’s is a carp lake with common and mirror carp ranging from 4lb to 30lb – at the moment it contains 42 fast-growing carp which weighed between 4lb and 16lb when stocked about a year ago.

Steve Sudworth, retired Silverlake Estate manager and DDAS club captain, said: “They have been fed on a regular basis during

this time, so we expect to see a couple of fish on the bank at around 20lb during the summer.

“We have plans to purchase a few more bigger fish at the end of 2023, depending on membership numbers and funds available.”

Lysander Lake is named after the Westland Lysander aircraft based there at RAF Warmwell in the Second World War.

Lucy’s Pool is named after Bill Lucy, a member of the club’s committee who died several years ago, who got DDAS onto the estate at a small lake at West Knighton, which was rented from the quarry company before the move to Heath Lake in 2009.

DDAS will have almost exclusive rights to the lakes but are required to provide four Silverlake guest passes a day for Lysander Lake and one for Lucy’s.

FASHIONS & LINGERIE

Be prepared

for mobile alert

Mobile phones across the country will burst into life at 3pm on Sunday, April 23 - but don’t be alarmed, it’s just a test. The first UK-wide test of the public Emergency Alerts system will see all mobile phones vibrate and ring out a warning sound and a message, for up to 10 seconds.

News from the Abbey

REGULAR guided tours of Sherborne Abbey take place on Tuesdays at 10.30am and Fridays at 2pm until December. No charge is made, although donations are always appreciated. Just turn up and the guide will be waiting near the porch. If you have a larger group wanting a tour, contact the parish office to arrange a convenient date/time: 01935 713777, joanna.sams@sherborneabbey.com

It follows successful pilots in East Suffolk and Reading, with the public being warned it is just a test and that they do not need to take any action.

All people need to do is swipe away the message or click ‘OK’ on their phone’s home screen - just like for a ‘low battery’ warning or notification - and continue to use their phone as normal.

Volunteers are needed for the Abbey shop. If you can space a couple of hours every other week, please email philip.prout@sherborneabbey.com or pop into the shop. Full support plus cash till and card machine training will be given.

or of severe flooding. The Government has worked

Expert treatment for your special carpet

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Steeped in three generations of history, Bakhtiyar has long been a respected leader in the Persian and Oriental hand-knotted carpet trade. Headed by internationally renowned carpet expert Masoud Mazaheri-Asadi, he and his son Koroush continue to carve a new path for the industry.

Emergency Alerts have been used successfully in a number of other countries, including the US, Canada, the Netherlands and Japan, where it has been widely credited with saving lives, for example, during severe weather events. In the UK, alerts could be used to tell residents of villages being encroached by wildfires,

London Marathon, to make sure

Steeped in three generations of history, Bakhtiyar has long been a respected leader in the Persian and Oriental hand-knotted carpet trade. Headed by internationallyrenowned 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.

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.

sound that saves your life.”

He also advises auction houses, insurance firms and institutions to identify and value Persian rugs and carpets. But we would be remiss to say that is all we do, we carry out general carpet repairs for

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.

clients, whilst also working with many historic organisations to clean and restore carpets, bringing them back to life, in some cases removing 200-yearold 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.

Geograph.org.uk/Mike Searle

Live the life you choose at home

When you’re seeking support to remain independent in your own home, the most important thing is that you receive the support you need to live the life you choose.

Whether you need help with domestic tasks or meal preparation, support with medication or personal care, or simply a helping hand to get out and about in the community, receiving the right care and support can be life-changing. When your needs are taken care of, you are free to pursue your hobbies and interests, and live life to the full. In short, you are free to concentrate on the most important thing of all - being ‘you’.

As a major care provider in Southern England and one of the largest notfor-profit care companies in the UK, Somerset Care’s My Willows community care teams in Wincanton and surrounding areas can help you to remain safe, happy and healthy in

your own home. We can support you as much or as little as you would like, as all care is tailored to you and your individual needs.

What matters to you, matters to us. So, wherever you are on your care journey, we are committed to supporting you every step of the way.

Our friendly customer enquiries team are on hand to answer any questions you might have, and help you to find the care that is right for you.

Call 01823 448150 to discover how we can help you to live the life you choose, in your own home.

Pizza party!

There’s free pizza up for grabs at the Hidden Pizza Spring Party on May 12…

HEAD to Town Meadow, Gillingham, on Friday, May 12, and enjoy delicious, locally produced pizza and drinks for Hidden Pizza’s Spring Party.

Gillingham’s Hidden Pizza, which has been making awardwinning wood-fired pizza since 2014, will be giving away free pizzas to their first 10 customers, as well as a free portion of chips with every pizza.

What began as a weekly pop-up in Gillingham has expanded, and you can now find Hidden Pizza in Sherborne (Wednesdays) and Castle Cary (Thursdays). You’ll also find them at festivals and shows throughout the summer, and you can even hire them for weddings, corporate events and parties.

Hidden Pizza has sought out producers and suppliers that share its values. Flour for the pizza bases is supplied by WildFarmed. “They put soil health first, and pay farmers properly, which enables them to grow tasty, highly nutritious food, in a way that heals the planet,” said a spokesperson. “Our mozzarella comes from the Somerset cows of Brue Valley Dairy, just outside Glastonbury. We use organic vegetables, and our meat comes from Somerset Charcuterie, which produces award-winning pancetta and chorizo. We believe you won’t find a more ethically and environmentally sound pizza!”

“We also want to give back to the community who have supported us, and enabled the business to grow. There will be music from Loose Connections, a bar by The Gold Hill Drinks Company, and pizza from us. Come and join us!”

www.hiddenpizza.co.uk

Family Law Advice

Family Law Advice

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

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

To book an appointment please call us on 01747 852377

To book an appointment please call us on 01747 852377

Offices in Shaftesbury – Sturminster Newton – Gillingham

D KING & SON Tree and Garden Services

david.king63@aol.co.uk

Shutters are designed to be installed on the inside of your windows and doors, providing excellent protection against the sun's heat and glare, as well as noise and unwanted visitors. They are made from high-quality materials that are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, keeping your rooms cool in the summer and warm in the winter, making them a durable and long-lasting shading solution.

At Lizzie Price Shading Solutions, we o er a wide range of shutters all British made to suit every style and budget. Our shutters are available in a variety of colours, nishes, and designs, allowing you to choose the perfect option to match your home’s decor.

We can help you design and install the perfect shutters for your property, taking into account your speci c needs and preferences, allowing you to easily adjust the amount of light and privacy you need.

So why wait? Contact Lizzie Price Shading Solutions today to learn more about our shutters and how they can provide a stylish and functional shading solution for your home or business.

• Benefice of St Bartholomew: Sunday, May 7, 2.30-4.30pm Sedgehill coronation cream teas, village hall; 5pm Coronation sung evensong, St Leonard’s, Semley.

• Cheap Street Church, Sherborne: The next jazz concert is on Friday, May 5, featuring Emma Fisk (violin) and Mike Denham (piano). More details from raymondwood1949@gmail. com

• Sherborne Abbey Festival 2023: Thursday, April 27, to Thursday, May 4, at the abbey and other venues in Sherborne. A mixture of world-famous stars, local musicians and school performances. The festival has purchased a new grand piano for the abbey with funds raised by generous patrons and concert-goers and internationally renowned pianist John Lenehan will play it for the first time in concert on Thursday, May 4. Programmes have been distributed but copies are available to pick up in the abbey and the parish office. For more details, see www. sherborneabbeyfestival.org

Tickets 0333 666 3366 or www.ticketsource.co.uk/ sherborneabbeyfestival.

• Friends of Holnest Church: Barbecue with drinks at the church followed by a talk, Confessions of a Dorset Birder, and quiz, to raise funds for the church. The free event (donations welcome) on Saturday, May 20, starts at 5pm. Phone Graham on 01963 210632 to book a place as space is limited.

• Blandford Methodist

WEST CAMEL INDEPENDENT METHODISTS meeting at All Saints Church, BA22 7QB. Sunday 30th April 6pm – United Service. Sunday 7th May 4pm.– United

“Sunday @ Four” with a coronation theme, followed by tea. Sundays 14th, 21st and 28th May — services at 6pm. A warm welcome to all. Contact: 01935 850838 or Geoff.mead@yahoo.com

Church: Sundays 10.45am –You are warmly invited to our services followed by refreshments. Thursdays 10am-noon – everyone is welcome to our ‘warm space’ for coffee and chat. Fridays noon – you are invited to our lunch club for the over-55s at £5 per meal; phone Joyce Wild on 07817 505543 to book. We are anxious to offer help to all those in need. If this is you, please call me or leave your message including your name and contact details. John Cornish, church steward – phone 07799 516735.

• St Mary Magdalene Church, Castleton, is seeking a verger to help look after the church and friendly congregation. It needs someone five hours a week, 2.5 hours of which is on Sunday mornings when the weekly service is held. This is a remunerated post. Anyone interested should phone church wardens Frances Hastings on 01963 350977 or Robert Harris on 07771 770717.

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

• Sherborne, Taize Services: Half an hour of prayer, meditation and music, second Sunday of the month at 6.30pm. Everyone welcome. This informal, ecumenical service is based on the Taize Community’s worship founded by Br Roger in the 1940s in Burgundy, France, and now attracts thousands of young people each summer. . For more details email vicarlesley@outlook.com.

• Anglican High Mass at Wimborne St Giles: First

CORONATION FLOWERS’ AT ST. PETER’S CHURCH, STOURTON CAUNDLE

Friday May 5th, 10AM-5PM, COFFEE/TEA AND CAKE with donation to Charity

Book Online classified@ blackmorevale.net

Sunday of each month at 11am. BH21 5LZ.

• Churches in The Donheads, Charlton, East Knoyle, Semley and Sedgehill: A team of friendly people are available to offer home visits. Contact Revd Kate at rector@benofbart. org.uk, 01747 830174.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Sacred Heart, Tisbury, and All Saints’ Wardour Catholic Parish: Sunday Mass times –Sacred Heart, Tisbury 9am, coffee after Mass; All Saints’ Wardour 11am.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Sherborne Abbey Choir: New boy choristers for the Abbey Choir and girl choristers for the new Abbey Girls’ Choir are being recruited. Email james.henderson@ sherborneabbey.com or leave a paper note in the Parish Office.

• Lillington Church: The church is seeking an organist to play its newly refurbished organ occasionally or regularly at its 10am Sunday services. Anyone interested should contact the churchwarden, Mark, on 07817 845775 for more details.

Runner Emily an inspiration on her gap year

GAP year youngster Emily Shaw, 18, a former student of Bryanston School, near Blandford, has been encouraging children in remote areas of Nepal to enjoy sport and running.

Now the success of the Right 2Run project she has developed with the Right4Children charity has culminated in a showcase athletics event involving 250 pupils from seven schools in remote areas of the country.

Emily, a former English Schools 3000m Champion and England international cross-country runner, said: “I know from my own experience that a morning running session can change one’s day and help to increase energy and concentration for the day ahead.

“And that’s exactly what the children involved in Right2Run have said to us.

“I’ve learnt so much over the past four months and I’ve really enjoyed working with the young athletes.

“Getting up when it’s pitch dark and

freezing cold at 5.30 in the morning has not proved to be a problem for them.

“After some warm-up games, they run a few laps around the village before sitting their school exams later that morning!

“There are many socio-cultural barriers for youngsters to cross to participate in sport. This is especially true for young girls.

“My hope is that the Right2Run project will continue to help pupils overcome these barriers and that they will use the skills gained from their sporting endeavours to break away from the cycle of poverty.”

The running project has provided direct support to pupils at remote government schools and led to the introduction of weekly running sessions covering teamwork, running drills and fun games.

Fun on the farm

A STUDENT is working in the fields of his dreams thanks to work experience at a North Dorset farm.

Felix (pictured right), who has autism, was offered a work placement at Meggy Moos, at Park Farm, Shroton, by Dorset Council’s supported employment provider, Pluss.

The 19-year-old has always wanted to go into agriculture but at college he was finding the maths entry level quite difficult to complete.

Sam Mosdell, who works for Pluss, decided to look for alternative routes into his chosen sector, which was working on a dairy farm.

And he managed to source some work experience for Felix at Meggy Moo’s, where the Perrett family have been milking 180 Holstein cattle to produce their own milk, butter, cream and milkshakes for more than 30 years.

Felix said his confidence has grown substantially over the last few months.

“When I first came here, I didn’t know what to expect and was pretty nervous, but now, from what I’ve learnt, I feel so much better, a lot more confident in myself and a lot happier,” he said.

“My experience has been absolutely amazing, and I’ve thoroughly loved it. Being around the environment that I’ve wanted to be around for the majority of my life – I’m so thankful for it.”

For the first month, Felix had the support of Sam working alongside him to help him learn the ropes, but now he’s confident in

The inter-school Right2Run competition held at the Rangasala Stadium in Pokhara was the highlight of the project.

Emily secured the active participation of Mira Rai, an international and awardwinning trail runner, as guest of honour for the event, and who helped to start the races and present the winning children with their prizes. Mira has also agreed to remain involved with the expanded Right2Run programme through 2023.

Right4Children works to improve the lives and living standards of disadvantaged children and their families in Nepal.

labelling the bottles, filling up milk cartons and putting them in the cold room.

Meggy Moos owner, Rachel Perrett, said they had enjoyed having Felix on the farm.

“As an employer our experience of employing Felix has been really positive. It’s something we’ve really enjoyed and I think we wouldn’t be without him now.

“Having Sam around as employment mentor for first three to four weeks was very helpful as Sam was very hands on.

“To anyone else thinking of taking on a work experience student, I would thoroughly recommend it. It’s very rewarding. I think not just for the student but the team as well. It’s been an experience that has been really enjoyable.”

Emily Shaw (right) with Maya, a pupil from one of the most remote schools, who won the 800m at the interschool competition at the Rangasala stadium

Somerset business scoops awards

Sparkford engineering firm celebrates recent success

A SOMERSET firm engineered a win in two top awards at a recent ceremony.

Sycamore Process Engineering Ltd, based in Sparkford, picked up both the Apprentice of the Year and Large Business of the Year gongs at the Somerset Business Awards.

They received the titles during a glittering ceremony at the Winter Gardens Pavilion in Weston-super-Mare on Friday (March 24).

Jerry Redman, managing director, said the large business award was an acknowledgement of the hard work and determination the Sycamore Team has shown over the past year.

“This award is real recognition for a business that is full of talented people –people that genuinely enjoy working for the company and that are having an impact on our success,” he said.

“We do not underestimate the power of this Somerset award as it serves to strengthen our confidence further and drive us toward our next goals and I’m extremely

grateful for the part that everyone at Sycamore has played in getting us here.”

Also on the night, Sycamore’s CAD engineer Sammy Chilcott was a winner in his own right.

Accepting the Apprentice of the Year Award, he said: “I am absolutely thrilled and honoured to receive this award.

“I am grateful to have been part of such a fantastic team and to have learned from some of the most experienced and knowledgeable professionals in the industry.

“This award is a testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone at the company, and I feel privileged to have been a part of it.”

Sycamore provides an award-winning apprenticeship scheme to develop talented employees, who show willingness and dedication to progressing within their chosen field, from fabricator/ welders, to CAD engineers.

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

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

Victorians at leisure – life for the haves and the have-nots

by Laura Manning

THE Blackmore Vale group of the Somerset and Dorset Family History Society opened its 2023 season of presentations by welcoming local art historian Felicity Herring to give a lecture on ‘Fun and Games – the Victorians at Leisure’.

This was an entertaining and thought provoking presentation, and brought into focus the fact that until the Factory Act of 1833, children under the age of nine were working 16 hours a day in distressingly awful conditions – not much time for fun and games for these children. Their only day off was Sunday – when they had to go to church.

Even after 1833, children over the age of nine were still employed as cheap labour,

wherever possible, by factory bosses.

The upper classes, of course, needed to fill most of their time with leisure activities – and many of these activities were recorded by contemporary artists. It was wonderful to be able to zoom in on the detail in some of the paintings.

One painting featured was Going North, King’s Cross Station, painted by George Earl in 1893. The piles of luggage waiting to be loaded onto the train showed that the passengers would be enjoying their time in Scotland by playing tennis, golf, fishing, shooting and hunting – they even took their hunting dogs with them!

Tennis and croquet parties were very popular among the gentry – giving a legitimate

reason for allowing males and females to mix. It is hard to imagine a female trying to play tennis in corsets and long skirts – but that is what happened. Serving was always underarm, of course, and the racquets were slightly different.

The Victorians were very keen to standardise the rules for games – Marylebone Cricket Club was responsible for formalising the rules of lawn tennis in 1875. These rules were adopted by the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club for the first Lawn Tennis Championship in 1877.

Women were not allowed to compete in the championships at Wimbledon until 1884.

‘Folk Football’ had been played in local variants – often violent – since medieval times in

England. In the 19th century, several public schools introduced their own, individual versions of the game – some, such as Rugby, allowed some handling of the ball, others did not.

The variance in rules made it difficult for public schoolboys entering university to continue playing except with former schoolmates – so, obviously, rules were needed! Cambridge University attempted to codify the rules in 1843 and these were refined in 1863. The game of rugby then became distinct from football.

The Factory Act of 1850 meant that many workers could stop work at 2pm on a Saturday. This led to the formation of many clubs – working-class men now played organised football and cricket matches.

Felicity Herring gave a talk to the Blackmore Vale group of the Somerset and Dorset Family History Society

Going North, King’s Cross Station, painted by George Earl in 1893, shows the gentry taking their hunting dogs with them to Scotland

Events

LYN’S BINGO AT MARNHULL ROYAL BRITISH LEGION on Monday 1st May. Eye’s down at 7pm.

GOLD HILL FESTIVAL

Sunday 2 nd July

Barton Hill, Shaftesbury 01747 853136

goldhillfair@hotmail.c o.uk www.shaftesburyrotaryclub.org

FREE EUROVISION COMMUNITY CELEBRATION DAY, 13 May 10.30-3.30 at The Scouts Hut, Eagle House Gardens, Blandford Forum, bringing together Ukrainian and local families to prepare & share food, music, kids activities and have fun! Funded by #tnlcomfund contact youthsupport@treads.org.uk or 07762185753 for details

Saturday 29 April - Monday 8 May

Free guides at TICs, libraries etc. Download the App at wvat.co.uk

At 7.30pm on Sunday 7th May 2023, Gillingham Methodist Church will be hosting a performance of Edward Elgar’s sublime choral work ‘The Dream of Gerontius’ with a 50-strong choir and the international concert organist, David Briggs playing our Sweetland organ and taking the place of an orchestra. There will also be three well-known soloists, including tenor, John Graham-Hall (of ROH fame) taking up the role of Gerontius. Elgar composed this profoundly moving work in 1900 and the score was set to the text of a poem by Cardinal John Newman. It relates the journey of a pious man’s soul from his deathbed to his judgement before God and settling into Purgatory with the promise of everlasting glory.

TURNPIKE SHOWGROUND CAR BOOT SALE SUNDAY 30th APRIL. Sellers 8.30am

Cars £5, Vans & Trailers £10 Buyers 9.30am£2 per vehicle

Turnpike Showground Motcombe SP7 9PL

SHERBORNE DIGBY HALL MONTHLY MARKET

1st Saturday of Month. May 6th , 10-3 Antiques, Arts, Crafts, Food & More Tel: 07717 454643

Get booked in at the 2023 Wimborne

13th to 25th May

Pick up a programme from: Gulliver’s Bookshop, 47 High Street, Wimborne. Westbourne Bookshop, 65 Poole Road, Bournemouth.

For further information call 01202 882677 or visit www.wimborneliteraryfestival.co.uk

Spring Brocante

The Larmer Tree Gardens SP5 5PY

Sunday 30 th April & B/H Monday 1 st May

Vintage, Artisan & Decorative Antiques Fair with Local Foodies

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit our website

www.thedorsetbrocante.co.uk

Sorry no dogs (except guide dogs) | @thedorsetbrocante

JUMBLE SALE

13th May at 2pm Martinstown

CORONATION FLOWERS’ at St. Peter’s Church, Stourton Caundle

Friday May 5th, 10AM-5PM, COFFEE/TEA AND CAKE with donation to Charity

BLANDFORD EUROVISION COMMUNITY CELEBRATION DAY, 13th May at The Scout Hut, Eaglegardens, Blandford, lots of free fun for everyone!

BRUTON COMMUNITY HALL

Coffee Morning in aid of Alzheimers and Bruton Memory Cafe

Saturday, April 29th 9.30 am - 11.00 am

Produce, books, bric a brac, Raffle

TEAS ON THE VILLAGE GREEN

Winterborne Stickland

Monday 8th May 3-5pm. Duck Racing, Craft Stalls, Flower Festival in the Church.

BANK HOLIDAY

MONDAY 1st MAY

Alweston Car Boot Sale, Monday 1st May. Sellers 7am, Buyers Info: 01963 23436

CELEBRATE CHARLES III’S CORONATION by making your own Royal Coach! Shaftesbury Library

Saturday 6 May 11:00am12:00 noon. No booking required.

GILLINGHAM LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY

7.30pm 18 April Methodist Church Hall. The Labourers Lot by Bonny Sartin

STOURPAINE CHURCH, SPRING FAIR, Stourpaine House, Manor Road, 29th April 10.30-12.30 Stalls, silent auction, Best Dressed Teddy and open garden.

PRELOVED SALE – lots of bric-a-brac, toys, clothe & books donations to Heart Foundation 20th May @ 2pm Upwey & Broadway memorial hall DT3 5NG 50p entry.

SALE TO CELEBRATE THE KING’S CORONATION

All proceeds to Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance Sunday 7th May 10am-4pm Sairey Crescent, Gillingham

CRANBORNE LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY: ‘Posted in the Past’ on Tuesday 2nd May 7.30pm in Cecil Memorial Hall, Cranborne.

Helen Baggott is speaking about early 20th centuary postcards. All welcome. Guests £3, refreshments included.

BLUEBELL WALK–ASHMORE

30th April, 2.30–4.30pm Meet at Village Hall (SP5 5AJ) Cakes and Cream Teas

21st Specialist Plant Fair and Open Garden

Yarlington House BA9 8DY

By kind invitation of Count and Countess Charles de Salis

Saturday 13th May 10am-4pm

To be held in the spacious park at Yarlington House. An opportunity to buy plants from specialist dealers from all over the South West – plus a selection of unusual annuals on the Yarlington House stall. You may explore t he extensive gardens, not normally open to the public Tea, coffee and cake all day. Plant raffle.

ENTRANCE £5 (under 16s free) cash or cards accepted. For further information please ring Carolyn de Salis 01963 440344

Proceeds to Yarlington Village Hal l

TUESDAY 16TH MAY 2023, DIGBY HALL, Hound Street, DT9 3AA 7.15pm for 8pm start

Sherborne Museum hosts the screening of a new film from King’s College London and Windrose Rural Media Trust about the story of historical pageants in Britain – a movement which was kickstarted by the famous Sherborne Pageant of 1905. Light refreshments will be served. Entry is FREE but booking essential to reserve a seat: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/604829249567 Donations in aid of Sherborne Museum welcome.

DORSETFEST

16TH - 17TH JUNE 2023

WARREN FARM, DT11 0HQ

DorsetFest is a family-friendly music festival set in the heart of the Dorset. The two-day event offers a fantastic range of music, entertainment and food stalls for everyone to enjoy. There is also camping available for those who want to make the most of the weekend, music and gorgeous setting!

You can find more information on our festival and book tickets on our website www.dorsetfest.org

New housing is overwhelming our small towns and villages

WHEN is enough, enough?

Housing seems to be out of control in local areas. Every way you turn, there is another estate or another field pulled up.

Who are all these people that need these houses, I hear asked.

A lot of us in the local area have moved, or lived here, because we enjoy the small towns and villages. But these towns and villages are now under threat.

Our schools are packed, no one can get appointments at their doctor’s and our roads have now come to a standstill in many towns.

The infrastructure simply was not built for this.

The developers take options on land around every town, and the landowners have been just as greedy, knowing they will gain a great deal of money by doing this.

Surely the landowners are also responsible, selling to the highest bidder but having no interest in conservation of the local area?

Developers greedily build inside the planning lines and outside them. They know no council can stand in their way – what they want, they will get.

After which, these developers walk away with full pockets, leaving the council to sort the failing infrastructure, which undoubtedly means higher council tax.

I am unsure of the point of councils these days. If they refuse a planning application, the developers move up the chain until they get the ‘yes’ they want. So why bother having them if they have no power to protect their villages and towns?

So, the question to everyone remains, when is enough, enough? Answers on a postcard please.

I know we are British and though we complain to each other, we rarely do anything about it, but at some point we must say: ‘Stop, let us decide how many new homes we want each year in our communities’.

Or could communities buy the land with councils, to protect it, or develop it as we see fit?

Maybe the Blackmore Vale could ask our MPs and councillors how much housing is enough.

Name and address supplied

I WAS amazed that Dr Murrison (Conservative MP for South West Wiltshire) chose to devote part of his latest New Blackmore Vale article to the state of the country’s rivers, which we know to be in a parlous state, along with our beaches, due to sewage and nitrate pollution.

Far from the upbeat view of his government’s record – over 13 years in government – and its latest actions, which he portrays in glowing terms, the real situation is of extreme concern.

The Industry and Regulators Committee’s warned in March 2023 that: “Under investment, insufficient government strategy and inadequate co-ordination has resulted in a failure to ‘treat water with the care and importance it deserves’.”

Chair of the committee Lord Hollick summed up their findings in these words: “During our inquiry, we have taken evidence from local communities and activist groups and received a considerable

amount of written evidence.

“There is an overall feeling of dismay, anguish and anger from respondents about the state of our waterways and the apparent failure to get to grips with the problem.

“We are calling on regulators and the Government to consider our report’s findings and recommendations and act fast before we are all left up sewage creek.”

I call on Dr Murrison to lobby to force water companies to make the desperately needed investment and to impose the available sanctions on water companies which continue to pay their bosses huge bonuses while continuing to pour sewage into our rivers and failing to invest in the health of our waterways.

Kate Bergg Via email

WE can all choose whether to purchase either a first or a second class stamp but what we can’t choose is when the local sorting office delivers it.

As my ‘expected’ mail wasn’t delivered on Tuesday, March 28, well beyond the usual time, I phoned a central number to be told it could well be delivered up to 19.30.

There was no delivery that day.

I presented the situation at the local sorting office and was handed the same central contact number.

I was informed that ‘policy’ is that until ‘seven consecutive days non-delivery occurs no action is taken’.

How many of us know this? Is it also ‘policy’ which entitles them to withhold our mail.

The four pieces of the ‘expected’ mail arrived on March 29, all with first class stamps attached.

I am asking my MP to raise this matter in Parliament.

Name and address supplied Shaftesbury

WE hear and read constantly of complaints about various services, and no doubt make some ourselves, quite justifiably

in many cases.

However, I wish to thank Yeovil District Hospital for providing the most excellent and courteous day patient care, and congratulate those responsible for setting up the repeat Covid-19 vaccination appointment system.

I phoned 119, once notified by email, followed simple instructions and appointments at the nearest vaccination centre, in our case for me and my husband, to attend within a few days within five minutes of each other, were immediately given, followed by an emailed confirmation.

It is possible to book by phone and receive confirmation by phone.

In fact, I find the actuality of many experiences in no way reflects the grim impression constantly peddled by the press and other media.

We need to look on the bright side.

Wendy Mellish Clifton Maybank

A PERCENTAGE of the population is affected by technology discrimination, not necessarily age-related, although those of pension age are possibly in the majority.

Many day-to-day essential and social activities are now restricted due to an individual not using advanced technology.

For example, car parks –some towns/cities have now disposed of cash payment meters and only accept cards/ apps – and some stores no longer accept cash payment despite it being legal tender.

Banks are closing their branches thereby forcing individuals to use online banking and so on.

How can society make this adjustment? What about freedom of choice and options?

Having been a recent victim of a scam which has affected my mental health and wellbeing, there is no way I would become part of a cashless society.

So where is my freedom to choose?

Name and address supplied

Friends help Guys Marsh prisoners

I’VE long believed that anyone with an interest in society should take an interest in prison policy and how we treat prisoners.

HMP Guys Marsh is in my constituency and I have made many visits meeting staff and inmates – or temporary constituents, if you will – alike.

I recently attended an event focussed on training, education and skills. Everywhere I go in North Dorset local businesses tell me their number one issue is recruitment. So, it was great to meet several businesses working with the Prison Service to recruit people into employment.

Most prisoners, when they have served their sentence, vow never to return and seek a path on the ‘straight and narrow’. Given all the benefits we recognise being in work as having, ex-prisoners make for the most dedicated and motivated workers. Grateful to be given a second chance, determined not to turn backwards.

However, it is impossible to secure a job without some element of literacy and numeracy skills. That’s why it was great to meet several organisations, both within and without the Prison Service, focussed on providing education and training opportunities in

order to equip people with the skills they need.

For many prisoners, school and training eluded them. Dysfunctional young home lives, getting in with the wrong crowds means that for many prison is the first time they can begin to close their learning deficit.

To prosper one must also be free of addiction. Huge amounts of work is done on rehabilitation services. I was struck by the obvious pride of the young man, on drugs from the age of 15, now not just clean for 18 months but working as an education ambassador within the prison – urging others to learn and gain new skills.

I said at the beginning that anyone with an interest in our society should be interested in prisoner rehabilitation. To do so is to understand the wider costs that crime has on society and the benefits that reducing re-offending has for us all. Our communities feel safer. We all feel safer.

Given my interest, I was

particularly honoured last year to be invited to become a patron of Friends of Guys Marsh Prison (FOGM). This is a group of North Dorset residents who work in rehabilitation, resettlement and education. FOGM raises money and identifies areas where we can help give the prisoner a much stronger change of success.

We also recognise the importance of family – the hope of being reunited and the motivation that being together as a family can provide in reducing re-offending. We work to ensure enjoyable family visits, including from children, helping to keep vital family ties strong. A prisoner returning to Civvy Street has a much better chance if they have a home and family to return to.

If you are interested in learning more about our work or in becoming a Friend please visit www.friendsofguysmarsh. co.uk or email – info@ friendsofguysmarsh.co.uk – you could help play a part in making our society better for all.

Tories up to their neck in troubles

THE shine really has come off the Tories after 14 years in power when our sitting Tory MP Simon Hoare pens an article slating the Tory critics of the Commons Privilege Committee for daring to find ex-PM Boris Johnson culpable and ending up being called a ‘kangaroo court’ by several prominent Tories for their conclusion!

I have met Simon Hoare several times and have always found him to be courteous and helpful, so why the signs of civil war within their ranks? Perhaps it is the dithering over the departure of the Justice Secretary and Deputy PM Dominic Raab, who was found to have been a bully throughout his past ministerial career over several civil service departments, and yet the PM, Rishi Sunak, just could not bring himself to wield the

governmental knife to his main political ally.

Or maybe it is because the former PM, Liz Truss –remember her? – just will not lie down and accept her political

denouement. She was recently giving the Margaret Thatcher lecture in the United States where she claimed she will be proved right and that her policies were ‘opposed by a conspiracy of all her domestic political opponents and the IMF, the EU and even the American President, Joe Biden’.

I am sure Rishi Sunak wishes she would lock herself in a darkened room for some time to cool off – rather like her sacked Chancellor, (Kame) Kwasi Kwarteng. By the way, does he still receive his MP’s salary while he is in purdah?

Meanwhile ‘Cruella’ Suella Braverman, the Home Secretary, still believes the utter chaos seen at Dover over the past Bank Holiday was nothing to do with Brexit. Even a prominent Tory Party apparatchik apologised for this

ridiculous lapse of sanity. She came second in her public spat with Gary Lineker and now she appears to be alienating the voters who backed Brexit but are now having second thoughts as it has turned out to be such a disaster!

Perhaps if Rishi Sunak were to have his attention drawn to the case for the striking junior doctors, nurses, teachers and all the other public service workers whose wages and salaries are falling so far behind the food price index of almost 20%, instead of always claiming that his policy is to ‘reduce inflation’, then he might be able to restore some sanity to his failing Government.

All of the above can only lead to a Labour win at the next General Election and the installation of a Keir Starmer government.

Conservative MP for North Dorset Simon Hoare

Alan Cross, on behalf of Dorset Labour

Drive on for digital connectivity

KITT Hill in Sherborne is finally, totally, re-open!

One of my key pledges in 2019 was to spearhead the sweeping changes we needed to see in digital connectivity –getting better broadband and phone signal. For the latter, the Government launched the Shared Rural Network (SRN) to overhaul the mobile phone network in West Dorset, bringing total coverage for at least one provider to 99% and from all four main providers to 90%. I met the Government and the providers rolling out the SRN to ensure the focus was properly directed at the areas in West Dorset needing it the most.

The Government is also supporting Gigabit and full fibre broadband with community fibre partnerships and voucher schemes through Project Gigabit. As part of this, I am in regular contact with providers and customers, and with the Government, to support schemes in West Dorset. I was very pleased to see from

Jurassic Fibre that the latest number of premises in the Sherborne area alone now connected to full fibre stands at about 2,200. This is making great progress but, as ever, if you are struggling with your provider to get the broadband service you need, please feel free to get in touch directly with me.

One of the very topical and subjective debates we are

having locally concerns St John’s Almshouse next to the Abbey. An institution established in 1437 to help the poorest of local people with a home. I first became aware of this situation from family members of residents some months ago and within a week I went to meet the Board of Trustees, otherwise known as the ‘Brethren’. The Almshouse has been losing money for several years – clearly something that is not sustainable. But the real frustration and concern of local people – particularly those who have lived in or around Sherborne for a long time, has been the lack of a direction forward and having an idea of the future given that there have been significant redundancies and number of residents leaving.

Charitable status means the trust is self-governing and is not accountable to government or Parliament as such, although the Charities Commission has an important role to play. If you

have questions or strong feelings about this, can I encourage you to share those with the trustees and copy to me by email at hello@chrisloder. co.uk We cannot lose this institution from Sherborne. It is a shame the issue was not addressed earlier given the situation now, but I would like to reassure you I shall be looking to scrutinise fully the decisions of the trustees concerning the future of this institution and can I ask that if you have expertise in this field, that you get in touch.

I’m meeting the managing director of South Western Railway again on Friday to find out about the latest disaster to affect the railway because the wrong type of fuel has been put in all the engines! We can expect longer journey times for at least two to three weeks, along with changes at both Salisbury and Basingstoke. Until it’s fixed, I recommend going from Castle Cary or Dorchester to get to London.

Health strikes: Let’s talk talk for win-win

OVERHEARD in a hospital corridor: “Is it true Ronald Reagan fired all the striking US air traffic controllers, stripped out the dead wood and re-hired at a lower pay-bill?” “Yup, they were being unreasonable and thought they were bomb-proof.” “So, are we being unreasonable?” “A 35% claim says we are up there, that is for sure.”

Reagan’s win-lose bloodymindedness was high risk and divisive. The outcome to the current disputes in the NHS needs to be win-win. The only way to achieve that is through dialogue. There will be talks. There will be a settlement. So, the message for both sides is to get on with it before even more people suffer unnecessarily.

I was cheered to hear from our local Water Guardians that constructive engagement on water quality is starting to

happen in North Dorset. Funded by Wessex Water, Dorset Wildlife Trust co-ordinates and provides training for anyone prepared to volunteer to walk their stretch of river once a month. I hear, though, there are continuing concerns beyond sewage outflows including the levels of agricultural additives and riverbanks broken down by livestock. Water quality is a whole community matter and demands holistic solutions.

Please join in.

More than any other topic, conversations on the doorstep turn to the cost of living. Why, people ask, is the Government not doing more to rein in the profiteering and knee-jerk rises in the cost of every service and amenity? The big underlying drivers of increased cost are moderating. Let us now see the Government getting on to the front foot to prevent any repetition – some of the necessary action in Energy, Transport and the Environment will be long-term, though, and that is inconvenient with elections just around the corner.

Our research shows up other frustrations. How can the Government have allowed dentistry deserts to occur? How can they continue to fail to build enough houses? How can they be planning to fail an increasingly ageing population?

For too long they have been off-piste pursuing myths and fantasies, short-term solutions and pandering to the rich and powerful.

Does any of this matter to North Dorset? Yes. We suffer here from the national problems of inflation, lack of investment and other incentives and levers for improved productivity and a better quality of life. We also have a continuing local failure to meet housing needs, an apparent disregard of community needs for amenities and services, diminishing rural transport, an utter lack of vision for the future prosperity of smaller communities and the same old, same old personal ambitions and agendas of a domineering clique. Time for change. Time for opportunity and fairness. Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch this May. Dorset Council next.

Mike Chapman on behalf of Liberal Democrats across the Blackmore Vale

Conservative MP for West Dorset Chris Loder

Truth, lies and matters of the media

WE are surely at risk of drowning in a sea of information. Or more accurately a swamp, due to the increasing amount of misinformation and disinformation muddying the waters. Deliberately deceptive disinformation has consequences, including loss of life as in America when Fox News – part of Rupert Murdock’s media empire –knowingly broadcast a lie that the election was rigged against Trump. The motivation was financial, whipping up the far-right to increase audience ratings. People later died when a right-wing mob stormed the US Capitol, and America’s political divide was worsened.

Social media is a fertile and lightning-fast breeding ground for the spread of disinformation. A Twitter study found that false information spreads faster and further than accurate information. Similarly on Facebook false information is more likely to attract attention.

on behalf of the Green Party in North Dorset

TikTok has announced plans to remove climate change denial videos, but we’ll see how effective they will be. For decades the fossil fuel industry and its mouthpieces have spread disinformation, casting doubt on the reality of global warming. The industry averaged $2m profit every minute for the last 50 years, enough to buy all the influence

needed to successfully delay political interference that might limit its activities. Around the world governments and regulators have effectively been captured, which explains the International Monetary Fund calculation that the industry benefits from subsidies of $11m a minute, in part through not having to pay for the deaths and poor health caused by air pollution, or the heatwaves and other impacts of global warming.

There is another more subtle form of media manipulation, which is to starve issues of the ‘oxygen of publicity’ as Margaret Thatcher described it. Last weekend I was at The Big One demonstration in London, with about 90,000 people who took the time and trouble to travel to London to express their growing concern at the disastrous lack of sufficient government action on the environment. It was heartening to see so many people of all

ages and ethnicities, including families with young children, coming together peacefully to raise awareness of growing public disquiet at our politicians’ failure to safeguard our collective future. Before the event there was considerable media attention on the totally bogus story about the risk of the London marathon being disrupted. Of the event itself there was minimal coverage. Nothing to see here folks. Climate change will cost us all one way or another, including here in beautiful north Dorset. At a recent Dorset Council planning consultation I was pleased to see the seriousness with which the environment is now being taken. Better late than never, but we are still not taking sufficient action quickly enough. I worry that the emphasis is shifting towards mitigation measures to try and cope with the effects of global warming, rather than on reducing it.

How MPs voted on Bill to tackle sewage dumping

A ROW has broken out over new laws aimed at clamping down on water companies polluting UK waterways.

On Tuesday (April 25), Labour introduced a Bill that would have introduced automatic fines on companies dumping sewage in rivers and seas.

It would also have set legal requirements for firms to monitor all sewage outlets, as well as legally-binding targets to reduce the number of times sewage could be dumped. However, the effort was countered by the introduction by the Conservative Government of its own, previouslyannounced Bill.

Under the Government Bill, new rules include ensuring water companies improve storm overflows in sensitive areas - such as those used by bathers and in conservation areas - by 2035, with all storm overflows to be improved by 2050.

Labour abstained from voting on the Bill, saying it did not go far enough in tackling the problem.

The Opposition cited Environment Agency data showing sewage was dumped in UK waters every two-and-a-half minutes on average since 2016, amounting to 1,276

years’ worth of raw sewage going into rivers, lakes and the sea over seven years.

Shadow environment secretary, Jim McMahon, said: “It is clear that we have a Tory government that has run out of ideas, only regurgitating old announcements that do nothing to end sewage dumping.

“That is why Labour has brought forward legislation to clean up our water system. Tory MPs have an opportunity to support Labour’s Water Quality Bill which will put an end to sewage dumping once and for all. Their constituents will be watching to see if they will put the best interests of our country before their party.”

The Labour Bill was also backed by the Liberal Democrats, but failed to get the support of Conservative MPs, who instead backed the Government motion.

Labour abstained from the vote on the Government Bill, which passed with 282 ‘ayes’ and zero ‘noes’.

Environment secretary Therese Coffey said: “It was a Conservative government that introduced 100% monitoring of storm overflows,” she added.

“We’ve brought forward stronger regulations, tougher enforcement and the

largest water infrastructure programme in history - an expected £56bn investmentand we will make fines unlimited so that the polluter always pays.”

After the vote, the Conservatives were accused of ‘blocking’ a move to crackdown on sewage dumping, while the Tories said Labour and the Lib Dems themselves had done the same by not backing the Government Bill.

Dorset’s Conservative MPs all backed the Government’s Bill, apart from Chris Loder (Con, West Dorset), who had no vote recorded.

David Warburton, who now stands as an independent MP, also backed the Government.

Richard Drax (Con, South Dorset): Yes

John Glen (Con, Salisbury): Yes

James Heappey (Con, Wells): Yes

Simon Hoare (Con, North Dorset): Yes

Chris Loder (Con, West Dorset): No vote recorded

Sir Robert Syms (Con, Poole): Yes

Michael Tomlinson (Con, Mid Dorset and North Poole): Yes

David Warburton (Ind, Somerton and Frome): Yes

Ken Huggins

Simply Cecilia in coronation concert

PROFESSIONAL singing group Simply Cecilia and Friends will perform a coronation concert at St Mary’s Church in Sixpenny Handley. They will take the audience Around the World in 80 Minutes, with music from Commonwealth countries and

more. Their repertoire is drawn from across a variety of musical genres – folk songs, light opera, traditional, popular and so on.

The church, which has excellent acoustics, will have flower displays created by the village’s arrangers, each representing a country visited in

Art group’s showcase

MEMBERS of Yeovil Art Group are set to hold a one-day show at the Digby Memorial Hall, Sherborne, featuring paintings and home-made jewellery and ceramics.

Visitors will be able to enjoy demonstrations and refreshments, and anyone who would like to join the group can obtain information.

The group was founded in 1947 by Bert Hughes and nowadays up to 50 members of all ages meet at Birchfield Community Centre every Monday afternoon.

Members also enjoy regular workshops, demonstrations and critiques by professional artists, as well as summer field trips to draw and paint outdoors.

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

song by Simply Cecilia.

And with the church open every day visitors can enjoy the displays throughout coronation week with all proceeds going to St Mary’s Church Fabric Fund.

The audience can enjoy a glass of wine and nibbles before and after the concert on

Tuesday, May 2, at 7.30pm. Tickets are £7.50, children (under 16) £4.

Tickets are available from the butchers, W S Clarke & Sons, in the High Street, or from Maureen Lockyer – phone 01725 552492. They will also be available on the door.

LIPSTICK

ALLELUJAH

Swing Easy Band: Songs for Swingin’ Lovers

They also exhibit their work at several galleries – their latest exhibition at The Octagon Theatre in Yeovil finished recently.

The event at the Digby Hall runs on Saturday, May 13, from 10.30am-4.30pm.

For more information visit www.yeovilartgroup.com

JOHN WICK CHAPTER 4 (15)

DEBRA STEPHENSON: THE MANY VOICES OF DEBRA STEPHENSON

JIM DAVIDSON FOR USTREME TV PRESENTS LEFT RIGHT & CENTRE

(12A)

Members of Yeovil Art Group enjoy a field day last summer

Scores of venues on art trail

A FEAST of artistic endeavour will be on show when the Wylye Valley Art Trail (WVAT) gets under way this weekend.

Some 73 venues across south-west Wiltshire will be taking part in the event including galleries, open studios and workplaces, and shows by art groups and student groups, virtual exhibitions, hands-on activities, demonstrations, workshops and talks.

The more than 250 exhibitors include award-winning artists with international reputations and those just starting out on their creative journeys. They will showcase a range of artistic skills from oil painting to digital art, from photography to video and installation, from print-making to furniture making, from sculpture to jewellery and ceramics.

The trail is run entirely by artist volunteers and last year won the prestigious Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service (QAVS).

Nick Andrew, founder and co-ordinator of the Wylye Valley Art Trail, said: “Achieving the award is a fabulous honour and reflects profoundly on everyone involved in WVAT over the years, from the organising

teams through to the participants.”

Brochures are widely available at all sorts of venues, from tourist information centres and libraries to cafes and pilates studios.

The event runs from Saturday, April 29, to Monday, May 8. For more information contact info@wvat.co.uk or phone 07730 400784.

Academy students put on a show

STUDENTS from the Artori Academy in Blandford have shown off the performing arts skills they have been learning to their parents and guardians.

The youngsters, aged from 11-15, demonstrated physical theatre, mask, acting, singing, dancing and improvisation skills acquired over two terms at the academy.

The Artori Academy runs every Saturday at The Corn Exchange, Blandford, for students aged seven-16.

The National at arts centre

THE National Theatre is coming to Shaftesbury Arts Centre with Good, starring David Tennant. He is chillingly plausible as John Halder, the ‘good’ German who gradually accommodates himself to Nazism in a stark and hard-hitting revival of the late C P Taylor’s 1982 drama. Tennant (right) receives excellent support from Elliot Levey and Sharon Small.

The screening is on Sunday, April 30, at 7pm. Tickets are available from box office on 01747 854321 or via the website at www. shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk

THE Salon Group of artists are staging an exhibition at Donhead Community Space at Donhead St Andrew Church.

The group is made up of painters Laurence Pollard, Sarah Flux and Lynda Appleby; textile artists Anna McDowell and Julia Desch; ceramacist Joanne Rutter; and sculptor Paauline Dawkins White.

The exhibition runs from Saturday, April 29, to Monday, May 8, fom 10.30am-5.30pm (closed coronation day).

For more information visit www. wvat.co.uk

N. Dorset pile up points against Cornish visitors

by Andrew Wallace Clune

NORTH Dorset Rugby Club hosted Penryn, Cornwall’s oldest rugby club, in round 2 of the Papa Johns Community Cup, and it did not take long for the visitors to realise that Dorset takes its rugby as seriously as those from Kernow.

Full-back Tom Steward tore through a gaping hole from a kick return to score and convert in the opening minute of the match.

Brandon Ward scored soon after, supporting strong carries from Adam Trevis and Sean Perry.

Penryn hit back almost immediately but Trevis scored a try of his own and then set up scrum-half Robbie Sampson for another.

Penryn score the last of their points just before half-time so that the teams went to the break with the score 31-12 in favour of the home side.

The second half was oneway traffic with North scoring 48 unanswered points.

Lewis Munster scored the first of his three tries inside the first 10 minutes, and Tom

RUGBY

Steward picked up two more, giving the pair hat-tricks.

Tom Spinney’s hard running was rewarded with a try and set up Steward’s last try.

Riley Lewis and Leon Taylor rounded out the try scoring in the last 10 minutes. Stewart collected 34 points from the match on the way to North’s 79-12 victory.

Sean Perry, Tom Hooper and Trevis were fantastic in the loose. Sam Jones proved elusive in attack with a step that threw back the years.

It was a great all round team performance which saw Adam Trevis awarded the Gritchie Brewing Company man of the match.

n THE second XV travelled to Puddletown for their secondround fixture and bowed out in the dying seconds when Puddletown scored to see them take the lead.

Zac Peacock and Henry Morgan scored tries with Tom Judd and Elijah Taylor scoring with the boot to make the score

19-15. Vince Stone was the Gritchie Brewing Company man of the match.

Throughout the Papa Johns Cup, players are also competing for the Camapana fine player of the match which went to Vince Stone and Tom Steward for their respective teams.

n THE quarter-final of the Papa Johns Community Cup for the 1st XV saw them travel to Gloucester where they took on Longlevens RFC.

Despite North Dorset playing one of their best matches of the season, the Longlevens side proved too good for North Dorset running out victors 29-3.

David Stickland, Adam Trevis and Brad Bignell had huge matches in the pack, while Robbie Sampson was dogged all day at 9. Sampson and Trevis were unlucky to have tries disallowed. Tom Steward and Zac Peacock impressed in the backs.

Brad Bignell was Gritchie Brewing Company man of the match and for the second week in a row Tom Steward was Camapana fine player of the match.

Golf ‘in a washing machine’

SOME 36 brave souls ventured out at Sherborne Golf Club to play the inaugural Easter Bunny Bowmaker, a fun mixed team golf event for four players.

Paul Bradford, a member of the winning team, described the intermittent heavy rain and squally wind as like playing golf in a washing machine, set to rinse cycle. Despite the weather, everyone enjoyed the event, which is now in the diary for next year.

And, thanks to Carole McGovern’s baking skills, after her Easter Bonnet cake was raffled off, nearly £100 was raised for the captain’s charity, Dorset Air Ambulance.

BOWLS

Blandford Bowling Club got their new season under way helped by the town’s mayor, Colin Stevens

Mayor bowls the first wood

by Cliff Waters

THE opening day of Blandford Bowling Club’s new season saw the mayor, Cllr Colin Stevens, bowl the first wood.

The mayor was introduced to more than 60 members by club president Carole Beckford and he wished members a happy and successful season.

Peter Short, representing the club’s sponsors, Lesley Shand Funeral Service, also attended.

The players bowled 15 ends on a perfect green following a winter of dedicated maintenance by the voluntary green team led by David Burge.

Refreshments in the clubhouse followed with the mayor.

A full programme of league matches, friendlies and competitions is in store –anyone interested in trying their hand at bowls should visit www. blandfordbowlingclub.com for details.

GOLF

WINCANTON Golf Club –senior monthly medal, April 14: 1 Simon Lenton nett 76 ocb, 2 Phil Francis nett 76, 3 Kees Schouten nett 80 ocb, 4 Pete Starkey nett 80, 5 Richard Strong nett 81 ocb, 6 Chris Dibben nett 81, 7 Chris Mieville nett 88.

Monthly Stableford, April 15: 1 Jim Phillips 37, 2 Chris Chapman 31, 3 Ian Chandler 29 ocb, 4 David Whitehand 29, 5 Adam Smith 29. 2023 Pairs Shield, April 23 – winners – Trevor Mills/Mike Doddington, 68 points.

Competition winners (from left) Paul Bradford, Catherine Bradford, Kate Cornell and Nigel Cornell

White ball ace Whiteley raises hopes for season

CRICKET

THE men’s and women’s Dorset county cricket teams have started their T20 campaigns.

The men are playing in the National Counties Cricket Association competition, the level below the professional county game.

The women are taking part in the national England & Wales Cricket Board competition with current and former professional players participating.

Last year saw the men reach finals day in the competition but lose in the semi-final to Cambridgeshire.

Team captain Luke Webb is upbeat about the team’s chances of returning to Tring Park CC for finals day with the appointment of Paul Lawrence as head coach and the exciting signing of white ball specialist Ross Whiteley.

“Having got to finals day last year, one area we identified we probably need to improve is power in the middle order and Ross certainly provides that,” said Webb.

Lawrence was quick to talk

Sport

TABLE TENNIS

BLACKMORE Vale Table Tennis Club, final league placings

about the impact Whiteley could have on one of the youngest sides in the competition.

He said: “It was important that we brought in a player who would share his experiences and when we approached Ross, we had no doubt he was the person for us.”

Sherborne School was the venue for the opening game against Herefordshire and offered free admission.

The county women’s team have faced a winter of

rejuvenation. A new head coach, Steve Wilson, supported by new team manager Charlotte Mandale, aim to drive the promising squad forward.

For fixtures and the latest team news cricket fans can head to www.dorsetccc.play-cricket. com for the men and www.dcb. play-cricket.com/home for the women.

Or for the latest news visit Facebook – @Dorsetcricket; Twitter – dorsetcricket; Instagram – @Dorsetcricket

Rockies’ season petering out

FOOTBALL

by Avril Lancaster

SHAFTESBURY have struggled for form towards the end of the season with injuries to key players and some bad luck.

A disappointing 2-0 defeat at home to Hamble Club and the same result at Portland United were hard to take.

The 2-1 defeat at Cowes Sports came with a last-minute penalty awarded to the Yachtsmen.

Two Shaftesbury red cards and a sin bin left the Rockies finishing the match with eight players.

When your luck’s out – Rockies skipper Billy Maybury at Cowes Sports

Eder Batista notched his second Shaftesbury goal levelling Finley Philips’ 36th minute penalty.

Substitute John McKie won the game for Cowes keeping them in the Premier Division for another season.

The Rockies went down 5-1

at Fareham Town. Dominico Pansear-Dower equalised after Josh Benfield put the Creeksiders ahead.

Benfield with his second, Ethan Jones, Curt Robbins and Mark Smith hit four second-half goals to give the home side a resounding win.

Divisional Cup Final – Division

One: Stalbridge A beat Stalbridge B, 11.5 points to 11 points. Division Two: East Stour A beat Compton D, 13 points to 10 points. Team Handicap Cup Final: Compton D beat Child Okeford A, five games to four.

TENNIS Open day

at tennis club

WINCANTON Tennis Club are inviting all-comers to an open day tomorrow (Saturday, April 29).

The club are opening their doors in conjunction with the Lawn Tennis Association to anyone who would like to have a hit.

Visitors can borrow rackets and the club coach will be on court offering free tips and advice.

They can also see the facilities and meet members to find out more about joining the friendly and welcoming club. All standards – from beginner to advanced – and all ages are welcome. There’s no need to book, just turn up between 11am-3pm.

Wincanton Tennis Club are at The Sports Ground in Moor Lane – for more information visit the website at www. wincantontennisclub.co.uk/

Dorset captain Luke Webb is upbeat about his team’s T20 chances

PHOTO: Ally Innes

Across 1 Extremely stupid (7)

5 Thrash (4)

10 Overseas officials (7)

11 Quarrel (5)

12 Less revealing (5)

13 Turfs out (6)

15 Small (6)

17 Opportunity (6)

19 Blown away (6)

20 Messes (5)

Down

2 Bright (5)

3 Making ineffective (12)

4 Placed inside another object (6)

6 Become less dark (7)

7 Increased in size (4)

8 Freezing (3-4)

9 Carry the can (4,3,5)

14 Keep going (7)

16 Orchestral drum set (7)

18 More experimental, artistically (6)

21 Roughly (5)

22 One running computer software (4)

Brain

Jumbo sudoku 56 2 9 8 7

28 3

6 3 7

3 64 8 61 91764 9

Cryptic crossword

1 2

6 1 5 97 8 89 57823 4 34 4 1

3 4 2192 34 7

2 68 93 7 7 8 5

68594 58 9 1 94

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

Across

1 Ask about investigation (7)

5 Posh academic gets Japanese dish (4)

Brain chain (hard version)

12 Hear good man in romantic meeting (5)

54× 17+ 7 4 4÷ 5 5 30× 13+ 18× 11+ 13+ 13+ 7+ 54× 5+ 15+ 168× 42× 12× 13+ 96× 11+ 20+ 25+ 12+ 14+ 210× 1 10+ 54×

13 A set of executives on a plane? (6)

Across

1 Ask about investigation (7)

Down

5 Posh academic gets Japanese dish (4)

10 Japanese art beginning almost to inspire a Frenchman (7)

11 Exuberant enjoyment shown by American in sports car by centre of crowd (5)

15 A pair of fellows broadcast matter (6)

17 Son with elite group source of hysterical laughter? (6)

10 Japanese art beginning almost to inspire a Frenchman (7)

2 Improve the mind of trained if youthful guards (5)

11 Exuberant enjoyment shown by American in sports car by centre of crowd (5)

Latin dream?

3 Latin tune a bar played right away – like dream? (12)

12 Hear good man in romantic meeting (5)

13 A set of executives on a plane? (6)

Put part

4 Put favourable slant on a line regarding part of body (6)

15 A pair of fellows broadcast matter (6)

6 Merit of French verse when reviewed (7)

17 Son with elite group source of hysterical laughter? (6)

Improve guards 234 67 8 9 14 16 18 21 22

19 Musical instruction apparently found in coda curiously (2,4)

7 Number working in middle of the day (4)

8 Job on staff for regular provider of correspondence? (7)

19 Musical instruction apparently found in coda curiously (2,4)

20 More pleasant Anglican church in Northern Ireland (5)

9 Face gent soon alters getting threshold relations? (3,2,7)

23 Rich US gangster proving deadly (5)

20 More pleasant Anglican church in Northern Ireland (5)

Down 1 5 10 11 12 13 15 17 19 20 23 24 25 26

23 Rich US gangster proving deadly (5)

24 Prompt shout, we hear, as feature of snooker? (3,4)

25 Speed in biker a certainty (4)

26 Normal tenant’s payment held back for associate (7)

12 Hear good man in romantic meeting (5)

13 A set of executives on a plane? (6)

15 A pair of fellows broadcast matter (6)

17 Son with elite group source of hysterical laughter? (6)

24 Prompt shout, we hear, as feature of snooker? (3,4)

14 Gemstone from exotic realm taken in by journalist (7)

25 Speed in biker a certainty (4)

16 Father with prank makes one wild with anxiety (7)

18 Expression of pleasure obtained with endless conversation (6)

Down

21 Pursue lawsuit about hospital (5)

2 Improve the mind of trained if youthful guards (5)

22 Tennis star among friends held up in the distance (4)

3 Latin tune a bar played right away – like a dream? (12)

11 Exuberant enjoyment shown by American in sports car by centre of crowd (5)

4 Put favourable slant on a line regarding key part of body (6)

6 Merit of French verse when reviewed (7)

7 Number working in middle of the day (4)

8 Job on staff for regular provider of correspondence? (7)

19 Musical instruction apparently found in coda curiously (2,4)

Place 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and boldlined 3x3 box. No digit maybe repeated in any dashed-lined cage, and each dash-lined cage must result in the given value when the stated operation is applied between all of the digits in that cage. For subtraction and division operations, start with the highest number in the cage and then subtract or divide by the other numbers in that cage

20 More pleasant Anglican church in Northern Ireland (5)

23 Rich US gangster proving deadly (5)

24 Prompt shout, we hear, as feature of snooker? (3,4)

25 Speed in biker a certainty (4)

26 Normal tenant’s payment held back for associate (7)

150 RESULT -80% +3 ×2/3 +170 -25%

9 Face gent soon alters getting threshold for relations? (3,2,7)

14 Gemstone from exotic realm taken in by journalist (7)

16 Father with prank makes one wild with anxiety (7)

18 Expression of pleasure obtained with endless conversation (6)

21 Pursue lawsuit about hospital (5)

22 Tennis star among friends held up in the distance (4)

For the solutions, turn to page 95

MG car has been lovingly restored

THERE aren’t many pre-war items that look better now, almost 100 years later.

But that is the case for an MG car, lovingly restored after being discovered in a garage, where it had sat for more than 45 years.

It was bought by the current owner, who painstakingly restored the car, which will go up for auction on Thursday, June 8, through Sherborne firm Charterhouse.

“To say the MG was bought as a project makes it sound much better than it was, as it was in a very sorry state indeed,” said auctioneer Richard Bromell.

“Thankfully, the owner was more than handy with a spanner and undertook a complete restoration of the MG.”

The MG VA rolled off the

production line in 1939. Very much a sports saloon, with its 1.5 litre engine, twin carburettors and Art Deco interior, it was only made from 1937 to 1939 as the outbreak of war stopped production.

Estimated at between £10,000 and 12,000, the MG VA is ready for classic car shows or lazy summer picnics.

It is set to go under the Charterhouse gavel as part of the classic and vintage car auction at Haynes International Motor Museum, Sparkford. Charterhouse is accepting further entries for the specialist sale.

Richard Bromell and the team at Charterhouse Auctioneers can be contacted on 01935 812277 or by email to cars@charterhouse-auction. com

800 lots are going under the hammer

CLARKE’S Auctions at Semley saw some strong results in its two-day April sale.

An unusual and stylish pair of carved carousel lions sold for a hammer price of £2,800, a 19th century figured walnut Credenza with inset porcelain panels for £1,200 and a gentleman’s Rolex Precision gold wristwatch for £1,800.

Silver and jewellery also did well with a heavy pair of Victorian silver entrée dishes selling for £1,800.

Clarke’s next sale is on Friday and Saturday, May 12-13. It will include a very rare Victorian copper jelly mould made by Benham & Froud in the form of a Victoria Cross estimated to sell for £350-£450.

A Regency oak and ebony tea caddy in unusual octagonal form with 3D marquetry inlaid

£250.

About 800 lots will be on offer and viewing is on Wednesday and Thursday, May 10-11, from 9am-5pm.

For entries into Clarke’s future sales or enquiries about consignment, probate or insurance valuations, part or full house clearances, phone Richard Clarke or Karen Marshall on 01747 855109 at the main offices on Kingsettle Business Park, Station Road, Semley, Shaftesbury.

Clarke’s Auctions

Antiques & Collectables

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday 14th Model Cars, Trains, Dolls & Toys

Thursday 15th Medals, Militaria, Coins & Stamps

Friday 16th Asian Ceramics & Works of Art Classic Motorcycle Auction 28th October Classic Car Auction 11th November

Friday 12th & Saturday 13th May 2023 An

Viewing Wednesday 10th & ursday 11th May

and easyliveauction.com

Units 1 & 2 Kingsettle Business Park, 01747 855109 enquiries@clarkesauctions.co.uk

A silver gilt and guilloche enamel cigarette box. Estimate £200-£400

Churchill piece makes £250,000 Acreman helps unearth treasures

ACREMAN St Auctioneers & Valuers finds that an important part of the job is helping people decide what items are suitable for auction.

It can be a daunting task when people are suddenly faced with the contents of a whole house, a relative or loved one’s lifetime of belongings.

Acreman goes through room by room, including the garden and outbuildings, which are often overlooked, assessing which items it can put to auction.

So often this will not be the things people imagine but belongings that would have been discarded.

If you are downsizing or need to deal with a whole house, Acreman is happy to help with advice or valuations and can arrange full house

clearances at competitive rates.

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

Acreman at 121 Acreman Street, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3PH holds valuation days every Wednesday 10am-4pm, where it offers free valuations on items people are considering for auction.

Acreman’s next two-day auction is on Thursday, May 25, with Furniture, Paintings and Collectables and on Friday, May 26, with Jewellery, Watches & Silver.

The catalogue and bidding are available online through easyliveauction.com and Thesaleroom.com 10 days before the sale.

DUKE’S recent auction results have been exceptional with its bi-annual Fine Art and Art & Design Post-1880 auctions taking place at the start of April.

Nelson memorabilia from a private Devon-based collector was fiercely fought over in the Spring Auction.

Phone bidders from Europe and further afield competed for a white marble bust of Horatio Nelson and it sold for £50,000.

The collection also included a silkwork panel portraying Nelson, which made £12,500, and a 1794 autograph letter to Thomas Pollard, written while Nelson was captain of HMS Agamemnon, sold for £4,750.

The next day, in the Art & Design Post-1880 auction, another sculpture of an iconic British leader made the top price. A bronze maquette of Sir

Winston Churchill by Oscar Nemon, for the statue now in place in the Members’ Lobby at the Palace of Westminster, sold for £250,000.

Consignments are invited for upcoming auctions. Valuations are free and an appointment with one of the Duke’s specialists can be arranged either online or at home.

For more information, email enquiries@dukes-auctions.com or phone 01305 265080.

The bronze maquette of Churchill sculpted by Oscar Nemon

WANTED

Coins and Coin Collections

Call Nick: 07754 058850

WANTED

Vinyl Record Collections

Call Nick: 07754 058850

WANTED VINYL RECORDS, Classical Jazz Rock etc Call James 07970 769946

WANTED

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

WE BUY RECORDS, COLLECTIONS LARGE AND SMALL

Call BILL 07967 816506 or 01747 811100

Email: bill@tunes.co.uk

Antique & Classic Clock Repairs & Restoration

Longcase Clocks a speciality Antique Clock sales

Clocks Unlimited

Tel: (01935) 423233 Mobile: 07974 520545 bclocksunlimited@aol.com www.clocksunlimited.co.uk

Book online: blackmorevale.net Email: adverts@blackmorevale.net

We’re coming back

Just like the Old Days

PASTIMES

of Sherborne (near the Abbey)

Thirty years of dealing in antique and Collectible Toys.

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

Telephone: 01935 816072

Mobile: 07527 074343

General Sale

Thursday 4th May 10am

Saturday 29th 10am - 12 noon

Tuesday 2nd 10am - 5pm

Wednesday 3rd 10am - 5pm

Asian Ceramics & Works of Art, Persian & European Carpets & Textiles, and Antique Furniture & Objects

Next Sale Saturday 13th May

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

A 2.36 carat diamond single stone ring. SOLD FOR £11,000

For free verbal valuations please contact and South Kensington, London

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

A George III tortoiseshell tea caddy, c.1790 SOLD FOR £310

Magnolias make a magnificent sight

by Sally Gregson

THIS year our long-anticipated spring has been especially good following last year’s very hot summer.

The flowering cherries, crab-apples, and especially the magnolias, are such a wonderful sight. Huge crowns of pink and white flowers have dominated gardens large and small that are lucky enough to grow them, most especially the M. x soulangeana.

They have mostly escaped those wicked late spring frosts that usually reduce the flowers to brown mush. They are not plants for frosty gardens. Magnolias that flower a little later in the year stand a better chance of escaping the cold.

They are among the ‘oldest’ flowering plants on the planet. They were among the first to use flowers to attract the earliest insect pollinators in the days of giant ferns, cycads and gingkos. Their flowers form curious seed pods that are slightly odd and highly decorative.

Now, millions of years later, we are blessed with more than 210 species of magnolia, from all over the world. Many prefer acid soils, but some are quite

happy to grow and flower in alkaline conditions provided they are not in sticky, boggy clay.

There’s M. wilsonii with pure white, cupped petals around rich red stamens. It grows to between 4-8 metres in height and width after about 20 years and enjoys alkaline soils. Its fragrant flowers will fill a spring garden with delicious scent and produce its strange

seed pods in autumn.

Magnolia ‘Lois’ carries beautiful, well-scented primrose-yellow flowers a little later in the season – into late May and June and is quite tolerant of alkaline soils. And the evergreen magnolia, M. grandiflora, is a magnificent plant. It’s happiest growing against a wall and will reach the bedroom windows in about five or six years. It produces huge,

creamy white, heavily scented flowers scattered over the plant intermittently. It is moderately vigorous and repays careful pruning in June if it is to be kept to the wall.

A free-standing plant needs shelter from winds and extreme cold weather, but with plenty of sunshine should produce its huge cream flowers and citrus scent throughout August and September.

How to make a summer herb trough

by Sally Gregson

IT’S so useful to have access to fresh herbs right by the kitchen door, that if there’s room outside, a dedicated herb sink or trough is the perfect answer. And spring is the ideal time to start planting it up.

Many of the herbs we use in the kitchen are originally from the Mediterranean and need a warm, open position to thrive. So, position an old ‘Belfast’ sink, trough or long, shallow container somewhere sunny while it is still empty and manoeuvrable. Ensure the drainage is good by raising it up off the ground on bricks, or on ‘pot feet’ at the very least.

Put a layer of broken clay

pots, or ‘crocks’, along the bottom of the container topped off with a thick layer of washed grit. Then mix some of the grit into a bag of potting compost, and loosely fill up the container almost to the top.

The next step involves a trip to the herb nursery or garden centre. Buy well grown plants of marjoram; French tarragon – not the seed-raised forms with no flavour; chives; upright thymes with different flavours, but not the creeping thymes that are all flowers and no flavour; and one or two biennial and annual herbs such as parsley, coriander and Italian basil.

Avoid planting mint in the trough or in the garden – it is a

Basil

is a good candidate for a herb trough but mint

which is a highly invasive bully, isn’t

highly invasive bully. It deserves a large pot to itself which should be tipped out and cut in half each spring to avoid mint rust.

Sage is quite a big, woody plant at maturity, but as a youngster it too could be included.

Next position the pots of individual herbs about 15-18cm apart along the surface, check their planting distances, and pop them into the soil. Water in the plants and finish off the planting with a top-dressing of more grit.

Your herb bath will give you flavour throughout the summer.

(left)

(right),

Magnolia ‘Lois’ carries beautiful, well-scented primrose-yellow flowers and is quite tolerant of alkaline soils

Home & Garden

IN THE SPOT LIGHT with POOLE LIGHTING Tel 01202 690945 www.poolelightingfactoryshop.com

FOR SALE SCREENED

PROFESSIONAL GARDENER available in Sherborne area. 07783 727032

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

Gillingham:

Monday - Friday: 9.00am - 5.30pm

Saturday: 9.00am - 1.00pm

TREES R US Get your garden ready for spring. Trees, hedges, patios, turf & fencing call Peter 07976 667130

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

ASBESTOS REMOVAL

Garages, Sheds, Lean to’s, Roofing and Cladding Collection and Dismantling BY Registered Hazardous Waste Carrier Call 07973 444620 or 01722 414478

CNP HOME & GARDEN MAINTENANCE

Over 30 years in the building trade. Friendly reliable family firm. General building. Hard Landscaping. Patios. Gutter clearing. Brick work. Re Pointing. Fencing. Office 01747 706073. Mobile 07736 061016

Carpets

Vinyls

Rugs

Wood

Karndean

Underlay

Curtains

established in 1978

OUR LOCAL SHOWROOMS: Newbury, Gillingham, Dorset SPB 4QL | 01747 835394

Wincanton Business Park, Somerset BA9 9RR | 01963 33574

www.cullingfordcarpets.co.uk | info@cullingfordcarpets.co.uk

Fabrics

Blinds

Re-Upholstery

Wincanton:

Monday - Friday: 8.30am - 5.30pm

Saturday: 9.00am - 4.30pm

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

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

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

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

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

amralphlandscaping@gmail.com

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

amralphlandscaping@gmail.com

amralphlandscaping@gmail.com

amralphlandscaping@gmail.com

amralphlandscaping@gmail.com

www.ralphlandscaping.co.uk

www.ralphlandscaping.co.uk

www.ralphlandscaping.co.uk

www.ralphlandscaping.co.uk

www.ralphlandscaping.co.uk

Tel: 01747 850544

Tel: 01747 850544

Tel: 01747 850544

Tel: 01747 850544

Tel: 01747 850544

Mobile: 07921 637227

Mobile: 07921 637227

Mobile: 07921 637227

Mobile: 07921 637227

Mobile: 07921 637227

TOOLS WANTED. Cash waiting. 01747 850474

SELF DRIVE DIGGER and Dumper Hire 01258 861647

For all your fencing and decking needs

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

Sherborne Fencing Ltd

Tel: 01935 814272

Mobile: 07814246332

HAYLAGE

6 ft square bales

8 wraps Call 07860 759996

WANTEDDave buys all types of tools Call 01935 428975

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

LANGTON NURSERIES (C W Abbott & Son)

Summer bedding, hazel pea sticks and bean rods, Onion Sets and Shallots, Wild Bird food, Perennials & Shrubs. Stockists of Kings, Franchi and Fothergill Budget Seeds, Potting Compost. Large selection of pots. Open daily 10am– 3 pm. Langton Long Blandford Forum Dorset DT11 9HR. Telephone 01258 452513

PORCELIAN & NATURAL STONE PATIOS GARDEN WALLS, WATER FEATURES FENCING & DECKING

M: 07809 415 902

Jamespricelandscapes@gmail.com

@jamespricelandscapes

Members vote for show winners

IT was a day of exciting exhibits and brilliant blooms at the Sherborne & District Gardeners’ Association Spring Flower Show.

Open to members, an array of classes are judged by members present, who individually vote for the best exhibit. The class winner is the one with the most votes.

Organisers said there was a great atmosphere during the event, at Digby Hall, Sherborne, on April 13.

“Helen Pugh, who had judged many shows for them over the years, turned up unexpectedly and was kind enough to agree to judge the overall Best in Show,” said a spokesperson.

“It was generally felt that this was the best set of exhibits for several years with the daffodils, tulips, spring cut flowers and the miniature floral arrangements being particularly good.”

A total of 130 exhibits were entered and classes won by 14 different individuals, they added.

The Polly Shield for the exhibitor with the highest total number of first places was shared by Glenda Shave, Sue Pickering and Anne Rutter.

The Minterne Cup for best

exhibit in show was won by Peter Neal.

Castle Gardens Vouchers for winners of the Grown-on Daffodils were awarded to Elaine Edmonds and Marie Hulme.

The association, founded in its current form in 1942, welcomes new members to its meetings, held on the second Thursday of each month in the Digby Hall in Hound Street.

For more information, contact secretary Richard Newcombe on 01935 389375.

The full list of class winners was: Class 1 – Jane Taylor; Class 2 – Margaret Cook; Class 3 – Peter Neal; Class 4 –Stephanie Durham; Class 5 –Jane Taylor; Class 6 – Linda Woods; Class 7 – Anne Rutter; Class 8 – Joint Winners Mary Banks, Glenda Shave; Class 9 – Sue Pickering; Class 10 –Anne Pugsley; Class 11 –Barbara Elsmore; Class 13 –Peter Neal; Class 14 – Joint Winners Anne Rutter, Glenda Shave; Class 15 – Elaine Edmonds; Class 16 – Sue Pickering; Class 17 – Sue Pickering; Class 18 – Glenda Shave; Class 19 – Linda Woods; Class 20 – Anne Rutter; Class 21 – Barbara Elsmore; Class 22 – Elaine Edmonds; Class 23 – Marie Hulme.

types of plastering, floor screeding & rendering. Wincanton & 20 mile radius. HELPFUL ADVICE & FREE QUOTATIONS. CALL NEIL: 07974 185923 or 07811 211586.

Local Services

J& C Handyman Services

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

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

at a time that suits you. Or you can drop off your machine at my workshop for quick, efficient care and maintenance.

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

http://www.dcenet.co.uk

Call 01963 400186 to advertise in Local Services

DECORATION, FLOORING & CARPENTRY

GARETH TANNER

G.O.T. Decorating City and Guilds qualified Interior/exterior Decorating Free Quotes no VAT Tel 07736 644452 go.tanner93@gmail.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

MUSIC

GUITAR TEACHER

Friendly, patient, humorous tutor with plenty of guitars in garden studio in a pretty village. Please mail andypalmer.guitar@gmail.com or 01258817063

PIANO TUNING, repairs, sales of reconditioned pianos.Julian Phillips BA CGLI. 01258 471194

813625

SHERBORNE GUITAR TUITION

01935 389655ahiahel@live.com

PEST CONTROL

Maiden Newton Clearance Ltd

We clear houses, garages, gardens across Dorset. Our experienced team will bag, box and clear everything. We will purchase some items or advise on those that should go to auction. Free quote on viewing.

Where our waste goes – we try to recycle as much as we can however some of the items cleared are not reusable. Our waste is split into categories of household waste, wood, rubble, metals, and hazardous waste such as old refrigeration units, paint and mattresses. Our waste goes to Canford Recycling centre, near Wimborne or Dorset Waste Partnership.

Contact Chris: 07580 193 352 Kim: 07467 070 960

Email: mnclearance@live.co.uk www.maidennewtonclearance.co.uk

Pub prize and perils of social media

by Barbara Cossins

A FEW months ago, when The National Pub & Bar Magazine dropped through our letter box with the awards all over its front cover, my first thought was, we really need to enter this year.

We had just completed the Love Local Trust Local Awards and it had been so rewarding to see our own winners and runners-up collecting their prizes. As organisers ourselves, we know the importance of people receiving recognition for their achievements and hard work.

When I put pen to paper for our own awards entry, I really felt that this time I needed to be a voice for all the small, independent country pubs out there. I wanted to let the whole industry know that it was not only about the big boys with their huge buying power, but that us small, independent pubs also needed to be heard.

To start a new business is a

wonderful thing but to keep it going for many years is an achievement worthy of recognition and celebration.

Well, it was worth the submission! The Langton Arms at Tarrant Monkton was Dorset Pub of the Year in the National Pub and Bar Awards 2023. A big thank you to all the wonderful staff who have helped maintain our reputation and the highquality standards we have tried to achieve over many years. It is not just about one person but a whole team of players. We were overwhelmed with the interest from all our loyal customers and social media followers after the winner announcement – thank you all of you for your support and custom.

In my 30 years of business, I am still struggling with social media. When I was at school all those years ago it was a big thing to use a typewriter! I’ve always tried to embrace everything that has come my

way. We were one of the first Dorset pub-restaurants to have a website. Technology had still not caught up and we struggled to find the right place to host it and show off all the elements of our business online.

Then it was Twitter and Facebook that I needed to grasp, and just when I thought we’d cracked that, Instagram came along. Now I am being encouraged to get involved with TikTok. I have to employ people to help me with social media, as I hate computers. Reading the Caterer Magazine, we are now being told we have to engage and use social media influencers. As I’m reading the article, I’m also thinking: “What on earth does that mean?”. I’m only just getting to grips with doing short videos and photos to connect with our customers, and now this journalist is telling me we have to do research and planning to ensure we are all on the right influencer’s platforms.

It is an exhausting time for us oldies to keep up with the younger generation, as everything is now on their phones or smartwatches, and they learn new skills so fast in comparison.

On the reverse side, I’m pleased that print magazines are making a big comeback as I can certainly see there is still a huge population out there that isn’t using social media.

It is important we all stay in touch with our communities, whether online, in print or in person – all work in their own way. Just don’t forget to connect with each other, we appreciate hearing from all of you. Everything we all do to support each other in these challenging times can only be a good thing.

n Barbara Cossins is founder of Love Local Trust Local; www.thelangtonarms.co.uk; www.rawstonfarmbutchery. co.uk; www.lovelocaltrustlocal awards.co.uk

Time to treat yourself, at the Clockspire!

Enjoy

A three-course-menu with a choice of three dishes for each course (including healthy options) available for both lunch and dinner from Wednesday to Friday, and Saturday lunch: 2 Courses - £ 26, 3 Courses - £ 32 (offer not available on festive days)

Our Main Menu: Available for lunch and dinner from Wednesday to Saturday, and Sunday lunch.

Set Sunday Roast: 2 Courses - £ 35, 3 Courses - £ 40

Enjoy captivating live Jazz with the Simply Jazz Trio on the last Thursday evening of each month, from 7pm to 9pm.

Listen as you delight in seasonal dishes, exciting cocktails and fine wines. Or simply come to enjoy a drink in our lovely mezzanine bar, Wednesday to Saturday 12-3pm & 6-11pm, Sunday 12-4pm. 01963 251458

harmony

blackmorevale.net

Book online: blackmorevale.net

Email: adverts@blackmorevale.net

The Coppleridge Inn

We are a traditional country inn with rooms, set in beautiful

Motcombe SP7 9HW

We are a traditional country inn with rooms, set in beautiful

Friday 12:00-15:00, 17:00-22:00

Saturday 12:00-23:00

Friday 12.00-15.00, 17.00-22.00

Saturday 12.00-23.00

Thursday 12:00-15:00, 18:00-22:00

Saturday 12:00-23:00

Sunday 12:00-16:00

Sunday 12.00-16.00

Friday 12:00-15:00, 17:00-22:00

Sunday 12:00-16:00

Lunch orders 12:00pm to 2.30pm, dinner orders 6.00pm to 8.30pm Drinks all day Saturday - Bar last orders 9:45pm, 10:45 Friday & Saturday

Saturday 12:00-23:00

Sunday 12:00-16:00

Lunch orders 12.00pm to 2.30pm, dinner orders 6.00pm to 8.30pm Drinks all day Saturday Bar last orders 9.45pm, 10.45pm Friday & Saturday

Lunch orders 12:00pm to 2.30pm, dinner orders 6.00pm to 8.30pm

Lunch orders 12:00pm to 2.30pm, dinner orders 6.00pm to 8.30pm Drinks all day Saturday - Bar last orders 9:45pm, 10:45 Friday & Saturday

01747 851 980 coppleridge.com info@coppleridge.com

01747 851 980 coppleridge.com info@coppleridge.com

Drinks all day Saturday - Bar last orders 9:45pm, 10:45 Friday & Saturday

01747 851 980 coppleridge.com info@coppleridge.com

01747 851 980 coppleridge.com info@coppleridge.com

Enford Farm Shop

Durweston DT11 0QW

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

Chicken feeds etc available. Open Wednesday to Saturday 10am-5.30pm. Outside shop with self service for essentials open daily 8am-8pm

Why the first step is the hardest and most important

by Alice Johnsen

IT’S a sensation we’re probably all familiar with. The sinking pit in the stomach, the distraction, the restlessness. You’ve got a job ahead of you and you’re pretty sure you’re not going to enjoy it. You don’t want to do it. In fact, you want to do anything but ‘it’.

The time spent avoiding the task becomes significantly greater than the time spent, eventually, on the task itself. It’s at this point the emotional side of our brain is running the show. Rather than applying logic and reason, our mind is drip feeding us a stream of messages about how the task we should be doing is going to be really hard, we don’t want to do it, our life is on hold because of this task

and so on. The effect of not doing this thing is completely overshadowing its value and content.

So, when this happens, the best thing to do is just start, because by just starting, we shift our focus from not wanting to do something to the thing itself.

But that’s not always easy. Sometimes, we have got into such a mental spin the task before us takes on a form that far outweighs its own pay grade. Time to break this down. If you create small steps that take you into the task gently and easily, you will almost certainly find you get swept up in just doing it and spending less time thinking why you don’t want to do it. Whatever it is.

The method of breaking

things down into steps is really useful. It can be applied to so many things. As long as each step takes you in the right direction, it doesn’t matter how small it is or how many steps there are. If that creates a steady feeling of achievement and success that encourages you to carry on, it’s a good method for you to use, whether you’re revising for exams, building up a fitness programme, writing a business plan, learning a new language – whatever.

wIf it works for you for one thing, chances are it will work for you for most things, and you won’t feel the need to put things off so much.

But don’t be put off if this doesn’t work straight away. As will all new habits, they can only become habits by repetition and familiarity. There are no overnight quick fixes! n Alice Johnsen is a life coach based near Sherborne. Phone: 07961 080513; visit www. alicejohnsen.co.uk

Breaking tasks down into smaller steps can be really useful

IMAGE: Gerd Altmann/Pixabay

New-look website to access mental health support

A FREE mental health support service has launched a new-look website to make accessing help simpler than ever.

Steps2Wellbeing, an NHS service, provides talking therapies, online courses and guided self-help for Dorset residents who are feeling down, stressed or worried.

It also helps people who are having problems at work or living with a long-term health condition to improve their mental wellbeing.

The new website includes a ‘How we can help’ section that simply and clearly explains who Steps2Wellbeing is for, what treatment it can offer and how to complete a self-referral form.

Joel Hooper, Steps2Wellbeing business manager, said: “This website has been designed to be easy for everyone to use and help people find the information they need quickly.

“It also gives local residents more choice in how they access wellbeing support – via an online form, over the phone or by using Wysa – so we can help people to manage common mental health issues before they become something more serious

and improve their lives.”

Visitors can also use Wysa, a digital assistant that guides people through the online referral process.

And the site features short, informative videos that answer commonly-asked questions about mental wellbeing and what the Dorset HealthCare-run service can do to help.

Lauren Scott, senior psychological wellbeing practitioner at Steps2Wellbeing, said: “From a therapist’s point of view, the new website provides a simple and informative place to start your journey with Steps2Wellbeing.

“If you have been experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression, there’s bitesize information on how we can help.

“Once you are on the website, there are different options for getting in touch with us. One of those is through our NHS approved digital assistant Wysa, that can provide you with information right away to help you start to manage your symptoms.”

For more details, visit the new Steps2Wellbeing website at www.steps2wellbeing.co.uk.

2014 (14) BMW X1 2.0TD X Line Automatic 4x4 SUV 5dr. 181bhp, diesel, 8 speed automatic gearbox, 4 wheel drive, heated leather, park sensors, hill start & descent control, DAB, Bluetooth, 52mpg, 66,900 miles ...................................................................................... £11650

2019 (19) Citroen C3 1.2 Feel 5dr. 68bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, hill start assist, Bluetooth, USB, touch screen, air con, alloys, cruise control, lane keeping aid, upto 57mpg economy, 43,500 miles ..........£9650

2018 (18) Ford Fiesta 1.0T EcoBoost Titanium Nav 5dr. 100bhp, petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, sat nav, parking sensors, cruise control, auto lights & wipers, hill start assist, sign recognition, Bluetooth, DAB audio, lane keeping aid, average 50mpg, outstanding performance, award winning engine, 87,950 miles ........................................................................£9250

2017 (17) Ford Kuga 2.0TDCi Titanium SUV 5dr. 150bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, high seating, big boot, sat nav, sign recognition, parking sensors, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, partial leather, hill start assist, Bluetooth, upto 60mpg economy, 58,700 miles ....................£13650

2017 (17) Land Rover Range Rover Evoque 2.0 D4 SE Tech SUV 5dr. 150bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, sat nav, BT, heated leather seats, parking sensors, reverse camera, auto lights & wipers, auto main beam, xenon lights, hill start assist, lane keeping aid, cruise control, £180 road tax, upto 65mpg, 56,800 miles ..............................................................£16950

2004 (54) Mercedes Benz C180 Kompressor 1.8 Automatic Classic SE 4dr. 143bhp, petrol, 5 speed automatic gearbox, leather, MOT January 2024, clearance car to be sold as seen with no warranty, 106,500 miles ...........Due in

2010 (60) Mini Hatch 1.6D One 3dr. 90bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, FREE tax, 74mpg, well maintained, full history, MOT October 2023, clearance car to be sold as seen with no warranty, 162,000 miles ....Due in

2018 (18) MG MG3 1.5VTi 3 Style+ 5dr. 106bhp, petrol, 5 speed manual gearbox, only 5,800 miles, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, leather seats, DAB, Bluetooth, air con, alloys, only 5,800 miles from new ...................£8250

COMMERCIALS

2018 (18) Ford Transit Connect 1.5TDCi 200 L1 Limited Van. 120bhp, diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, 3 seats, side door, bulkhead, lined, sat nav, reverse camera, park sensors, auto lights & wipers, cruise control, heated seat, heated front screen, Bluetooth, AC, Alloys, hill start assist, 119,600 miles, NO VAT to pay .......................................................................£11850

2017 (17) Ford Transit Connect 1.5TDCi Trend 200 L1 Van. 100bhp, diesel, 5 speed manual gearbox, 3 seats, side door, bulkhead, lined, hill start, AC, heated front screen, BT, DAB, 120,100 miles, NO VAT to pay............£9800

2010 (60) Ford Transit 2.2TDCi 280 SWB LR VAN. 85bhp, diesel, 5 speed manual gearbox, 3 seats, clearance van to be sold as seen with no warranty, MOT January 2024, 107,800 miles ............£3000+VAT = £3600

blackmorevale.net

2017 FOCUS 41KMLS CAT N ‘0’ TAX MOT DEC 2023 £7000

2004 PEUGEOT BOXER MOTORHOME. Full MOT 39,192 miles £15,000. 07593 863964

INDEPENDENT LAND ROVER SPECIALISTS

Established 1978 Parts repairs, servicing www.nicholaspaxton.co.uk 01749 880817

FOR SALE 1989 NIPPER CAMPERVAN Good condition MOT’d Ring for further details: 07508 230574

BARN TO RENT 45 ft x 25ft - 01258 450050 07704 813025

MINI COOPER D, vgc, red MOT 11 months, 80,000 miles 60 mpg £2,800 01747 811991

MOTORBIKES WANTED Non runners and Unwanted Phone Keith on 07966 213344

VEHICLE STORAGE

Dorchester area Call for details 07393 941500

UNWANTED VEHICLES bought for cash ●Mot failures ●Nonrunners ●Unfinished projects

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

MOTORHOME 2 BERTH ELDDIS AUTOCIRRUS 220 2008 Model 23,400 miles. New MOT New habitation certificate Re-trimmed in champagne napa vinyl, full cooker + microwave, 3-way fridge Shower/toilet. Loads of storage space £21,950 ono 07971 408962

2015 (65) MERCEDES BENZ C CLASS

SALON C200 BLUE TEC AMG LINE, 1.6 automatic diesel, 41,000 miles, silver blue metallic, black leather, all usual refinements sat nav etc, fantastic performance and economy, a real eyeful, only £30 road tax..................................................... £15,495

2015 (65) MERCEDES BENZ E350

CONVERTIBLE Amg Line Blue Tec Diesel Auto Convertible, black with black hood, black leather, only 59,000 miles with service history, every conceivable extra, what an eyeful................................................. £15,495

2013 (62) BMW 118D, convertible Exclusive

Edition Finished in White, with Black fully electric soft top 6 speed manual (Euro 5) 1 former owner, service history 103,000 miles great performance and economy. Excellent value at .............................................. £5,995

2.5

Blackmore Vale Magazine

ELSIE’S BIG DAY

automatic, black with black leather, massive service record, 140,000 miles, MOT 03/07/23, will be sold as spares or repairs only........................................ £1,595

RARE OPPORTUNITY 2002 MGTF (SPORT) Registration M3 GTF only 70,000 miles, drives lovely, MOT 10/08/23 (no advisories) will be sold as spares or repairs only ................................................... £1,500

PX TO CLEAR: PUEGOET 2002 (02) 307 HDI Drives well 118,000 miles, local owner, MOT. Sold for spares and repairs ........ £595

Edition 66 FREE EVERY FORTNIGHT The New Blackmore Vale Light or shade, privacy and insulation with elegant Call us or visit our showroom to see our extensive range or to arrange a no-obligation survey and quote.

Edition 67 Friday, April 14, 2023

blackmorevale.net

FREE EVERY FORTNIGHT The New Blackmore Vale Meet Bere Marsh Farm’s newest recruits Page11

HOGGING THE LIMELIGHT Page6 WARM WELCOME Sturminster celebrates new vicar Page6

3WEEK DELIVERY!

Think shutters? Think Insignia! 01202 741671 www.insigniashadeandshutter.co.uk Open Mon-Fri 9.30am-5.00pm, Sat 9.30am-3.00pm Insignia, 1-7 Ashley Road, Poole, Dorset BH14 9BS (opposite John Lewis & Homebase)

Gillingham youngster nominated for award Wonderful Will Light or shade, privacy and insulation with elegant and adjustable bespoke shutters. Call us or visit our showroom to see our extensive range or to arrange a no-obligation survey and quote.

3WEEK DELIVERY! UK MADE

Insignia, 1-7 Ashley Road, Poole, Dorset BH14 9BS (opposite John Lewis & Homebase)

The New Connecting you with local customers To advertise call: 01963

400186

PROPERTY LADDER Beeny’s barn plans resubmitted Page7

Thinkshutters? ThinkInsignia! 01202 741671 www.insigniashadeandshutter.co.uk Open Mon-Fri 9.30am-5.00pm, Sat 9.30am-3.00pm

01258 454366 07537 124307 Hundreds of cards from wellwishers as Sherborne resident turns 103 Page 7

2012 (12) Vauxhall Astra 1.6 Manual

Exclusive Estate Petrol, finished in Pearl Grey Metallic 2 formers keepers 66,000 miles, in excellent condition throughout £4,995

2001 Mercedes Vito 2.2 TDI Diesel Manual Camper Van 96,000 miles, good service record, elevating roof, split charge plus leisure battery, Pull out double bed, electric night heater (on board running), gas hob & grill, awning, Cool box, ready for the summer.................................................. £6,995

1997 BMW 523iSE 4-door

petrol

Peacemarsh Garage

SUNRISE SERVICE & MOT CENTRE

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

SUNRISE SERVICE & MOT CENTRE

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

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

MOTS – class 4,5 and 7

Diagnostics

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

Air conditioning

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

Valets

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

MOTS – class 4,5 and 7

MOTs – class 4, 5 and 7

Courtesy Cars

Diagnostics

Diagnostics Air Conditioning

Air conditioning

MOTS – class 4,5 and 7 Diagnostics

Collections within a 5 mile radius

Courtesy Cars

Valets

Concessions for Pensioners, Armed Forces and Emergency Services

Concessions for Armed Forces and Emergency Services

Courtesy Cars

Collections within a 5 mile radius

Air conditioning Valets Courtesy Cars Collections within a 5 mile radius

Concessions for Pensioners, Armed Forces and Emergency Services

15B Sunrise Business Park, Higher Shaftesbury Road Blandford DT11 8ST Tel: 01258 459798

Email sunriseservicecentre@hotmail.com

Concessions for Pensioners, Armed Forces and Emergency Services 15B Sunrise Business Park, Higher Shaftesbury Road Blandford DT11 8ST Tel: 01258 459798

Email sunriseservicecentre@hotmail.com www.sunriseserviceandmotcentre.com

PUBLIC NOTICES

Licensing Act 2003

Notice of application for the GRANT of a PREMISES LICENCE

Proposed licensable activities: Supply of alcohol at The Story Pig

Name of applicant: James Hull

Address of premises: Lavender Keepers, Great Pitt Lane, Sandford Orcas, DT9 4FG.

Date by which Responsible Authorities and other persons may make representations: 19th May 2023

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.

It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application. Copies of representations are given to the applicant as required by the Licensing Act 2003 (Hearings) Regulations 2005.

Site Notice for Application for A PREMISES LICENCE

This notice is to advise that on 13th April 2023, an application for a Premises Licence was made to South Somerset Council for a premises licence in respect of the premises at Address DGG, Woodland Escape, North Barrow Road, South Barrow, Yeovil, BA22 7LR was made by Justin Manning for the following licensable activities:

Times when alcohol will be supplied

Monday 12:00 – 23:00

Tuesday 12:00 – 23:00

Wednesday 12:00 – 23:00

Thursday 12:00 – 23:00

Friday 12:00 – 23:00

Saturday 12:00 – 23:00

Sunday 12:00 – 23:00

Any person wishing to make representations about this application should write to The Lead SpecialistEnvironment, South Somerset District Council, The Council Offices, Brympton Way Yeovil, BA20 2HT, within twenty-eight consecutive days from the date of the application shown above. The application can be viewed on the council's website www.somerset.gov.uk and search for recent license applications.

It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application & a person is liable to a fine of up to amaximum of £5,000 on summary conviction for the offence.

Dated this day 13th April 2023

MAUREEN ANN DAVIES Deceased

Pursuant to the Trustee Act 1925 anyone having a claim against or an interest in the Estate of the deceased, late of 15, Charlton, Shaftesbury, SP7 0EN, who died on 26/10/2022, must send written particulars to the address below by 29/06/2023, after which date the Estate will be distributed having regard only to claims and interests notified.

Clare Heather Gundry and Fiona Jane Thomas c/o Farnfields Solicitors, 4 Church Lane, Shaftesbury, SP7 8JT.

Ref: SL/85448-1

THANK YOU

Cathy, Ryan and Ben would like to thank family and friends for all their help and support, for their kind cards and messages of sympathy, for their attendance at the service and for their kind donations which are being gratefully received for The NSPCC c/o Mr. Harold F. Miles, funeral director, South Cadbury BA22 7ES. Our special thanks to his work colleagues for the magnificent floral tribute. Please accept this as our personal message of thanks.

MOIR Robert

DEATHS

MAUREEN JOYCE CRANE

Formally of Child Okeford, passed away peacefully at home on 9th April. A much-loved wife to Reg, mother to Tanya, Paul, Dennis & Diane and the many grandchildren & great grandchildren. Funeral details to be confirmed. Donations in her memory, if desired, to Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance.

JAN GIBB

Peacefully at home on 8th April 2023, Jan, beloved wife of Tony, mother of Darell and proud grandmother of Sarah and Jamie. A Service of Thanksgiving for Jan’s life will be held at St Mary’s Church, Sixpenny Handley at 2.30pm on Friday 12th May 2023. No flowers please. Donations in Jan’s memory to Salisbury Hospice, Odstock Rd, Salisbury SP2 8QX.

SALLY ANNE MILLER Formerly of Shaftesbury

Passed away peacefully at home in Buckden, Cambridgeshire, surrounded by her family on the 9th March 2023 aged 63.

Eldest Daughter of the late John and Diana Heath, loving Mum to Jessica, Danielle, Grandma to Luca, Sister to Sue. The funeral has taken place, if desired donations can be made via https://sallymiller.muchlove.com

FURNEAUX

PETER GRAHAM REEVES

Aged 78 years of Charlton Musgrove. On 10th April 2023, peacefully at Crewkerne Community Hospital. A much loved husband, Dad, Grandad and friend. Funeral Service at Yeovil Crematorium on Tuesday 9th May at 12 noon. Family flowers only please, donations in memory of Peter are being invited for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance or the R.N.L.I C/O Harold F. Miles, Funeral Director, South Cadbury, BA22 7ES. Telephone (01963) 440367.

PRICKETT Betty

Passed away peacefully at Yeovil Hospital on April 9th 2023 aged 86 years. Much loved Wife of Arnold. She will be sadly missed by all who knew her. Funeral service will take place at 1:30pm on Tuesday 2nd May 2023 - Mendip Crematorium. Donations in memory of Betty for the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance Service may be sent c/o: - A J Wakely & Sons

The Old Police Station, Carrington Way, Wincanton BA9 9JS. Telephone 01963 31310

(Please make cheques payable to the charity)

DIANE BULGIN

Nee Priddle Nee Smith

Formerly from Wincanton

It is with great sadness Diane’s family announce she passed away in Perth Australia on 16th April 2023 after a short illness.

BERYL STONE

102 years

Passed away peacefully 09/04/23. A Mother, Mother-in-law, Granny and Great Granny. A long, eventful life well spent. Private funeral.

DARREN GEORGE OSBORNE “Oz”

Passed away peacefully on Saturday 15th April 2023, aged 48 years. Much loved husband to Cath, a devoted Dad to Daisy and Arthur, a loving Son to George and Ann and a younger Brother to Mandy and Paul. Darren will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by all of his family and friends.

Service at Harbour View Crematorium, Randalls Hill, Lytchett Minster, BH16 6AN on Friday 12th May at 12:30pm, please car share if possible.

Family flowers only; donations if desired are in aid of The Salisbury Hospice Charity and can be donated online at https://darrenosborne.muchloved.com

MARY BUTCHERS

Peacefully on the 16th April in Salisbury Hospice aged 74 years, after a long battle against cancer. Beloved wife of Donald Butchers and loving mother to Catherine Louise Butchers.

The funeral will take place on Thursday 11th May at 12 noon at St Michael the Archangel Church in Mere. Family flowers only but donations to Salisbury Hospice if desired. C/o L. C. Hill and Sons, Water Street, Mere, BA12 6DZ, 01747-898127.

JONES Melanie Jayne (Mel)

Aged 56 years of Marston Magna. (Formerly of Wincanton.)

On 14th April 2023, peacefully at her home. A dearly beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Funeral Service at St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Wincanton on Tuesday 2nd May at 2.p.m followed by private cremation. Please wear a touch of pink or purple. Family flowers only please, donations in memory of Mel ae being invited for Macmillan Cancer Support. C/O Harold F. Miles, Funeral Director, South Cadbury, BA22 7ES. Telephone (01963) 440367.

DEATHS Announcements

IRIS MARGARET “TONI” LUCAS

Passed away peacefully on 8th April at Salisbury District Hospital, aged 86. A much loved wife of Stan and loved dearly by all her family and friends. Funeral Service to take place at Gillingham Methodist Church on Tuesday 2nd May at 11:00 followed by a burial in Gillingham Town Cemetery. Family flowers only please, donations in Toni’s memory are for the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance. C/O Bracher Brothers, Newbury, Gillingham , Dorset SP8 4QL

CAROL EDERLE “Caz”

25/11/1944 - 11/04/2023

Slipped away peacefully at home, as were her wishes. Much loved friend to many. Private cremation. Donations for Wiltshire Air Ambulance 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

ANN ROSEMARY MYLES

Much loved mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Passed away at Nazareth Lodge, Sturminster Newton on 22nd April 2023 aged 88 years.

SHEILA ANN TAYLOR

Peacefully on 16th April beloved wife of Tony Funeral service will be held at St Michael’s Church Mere Family flowers only. If desired Donations to The British Heart Foundation For details of the service please contact L C hill & son in Mere. Telephone 01747 860361

MALCOLM COCKERELL

Peacefully on the 9th April 2023, Malcolm aged 93 years of Wincanton. A dearly loved Dad and Grandad.

Funeral service at Yeovil Crematorium on Tuesday, 2nd May at 12 noon.

Family flowers only please, donations if desired for St Margaret’s Hospice or Cancer Research UK.

C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Mons, High St, Henstridge, BA8 0RB. Tel: 01963 362570.

KEN WHITE

Peacefully on the 14th April 2023. Ken aged 89 years of Gillingham, formerly of East Stour. A dearly loved Husband, Father, Grandfather & Great Grandfather. Funeral service at Yeovil Crematorium on Tuesday, 16th May at 12 noon. No flowers please, donations if desired for the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance Trust. C/o Peter Jackson Funeral Services, Harwood House, Newbury, Gillingham, SP8 4QJ. Tel: 01747 833757.

MAUREEN HANKIN

Passed away peacefully on 16th April at the Malthouse Care Home, Gillingham, aged 82 years.

Much loved Mother of Paul, Katrina and Sharon, also loving Nan, Great Nan, Sister, Aunt and Friend.

Funeral Service to be held at St. Mary’s Church, Gillingham on Wednesday 10th May, 12.30pm.

Family flowers only please but donations if desired for British Heart Foundation, c/o Bracher Brothers, Gillingham. Tel: 01747 822 494

RUTH LUCY WHITE (nee Read)

Ruth White of Sturminster Newton passed away peacefully at Newstone House, Sturminster Newton on 19th April 2023, aged 93 years. Widow of Alan, much loved mother of Stephen, Carol and Shirley, grandmother and great grandmother. Funeral Service at St Peter’s Church Hinton St Mary on Tuesday 9th May at 11.00am, followed by interment. Family flowers only please, but donations if desired for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance 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

BIGGS Adrian

Died suddenly and unexpectedly at home in Alton, Hampshire on 4th April 2023.

The most loved and cherished husband of Maureen (Mo). Devoted father of Emma, James, Georgina and Rebecca, inspirational grandfather to Megan, Charlie, Joe, Phoebe, Dominic, Rosalie, Hugo and Oliver. Father-in-Law to John, Briana, Phil and Liam and “Bruv” of Michael.

Born and raised in Sherborne and proud to be a “Fosters Boy”. Funeral at St. Mary’s RC Church Alton on 12/5/23, 12 noon. Donations can be made online via adrianbiggs.muchloved.com

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

PART TIME BAR & WAITRESSING WORK

available at Sherborne Golf Club. Great working environment and good rates of pay. Flexible hours available.

Call Nicki on 01935 814275 or email bar@sherbornegolfclub.co.uk

EXPERIENCED BENCH

JOINER required for a modern workshop, Varied and interesting work. Top rates paid for the right candidate. Contact 01935 872806 or joinery@ jbennettjoinery.com for more details

DENTAL NURSE/RECEPTIONIST.

The Bruton Dental Practice is looking for a full time dental nurse/receptionist. We are a fully private practice that offers DPAS plan bespoke to our patients and we also have a small children’s NHS contract You would be required to be on reception part of the week. Indemnity paid, uniform provided and majority of ECPD paid for. Ideally we would like someone to start asap. Salary will be discussed at interview.

Please check our website for more information about us. Send CV to alison@brutondental.co.uk

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Looking for an enthusiastic, inspiring, and passionate leader to run our Hindon furniture making workshops. This is an opportunity to join one of the UK’s leading country house furniture specialists and to help nurture, develop and improve our thriving furniture making team during our next phase of growth.

Please contact us for a full job description: andrew@guildanderson.co.uk

BLACKMORE VALE JOBS GROUP

SILBURY CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS

Bookkeeping and Payrolls

We are recruiting a person to run the bookkeeping and payroll part of our business for clients. You will be able to work as part of a small team and communicate effectively with clients and staff. You will have a track record of being able to prioritise jobs and work to deadlines.

The role is office based, but we can offer flexibility for some remote working after a suitable period of becoming acquainted with our working practices and systems. The role is for 3 or 4 days per week, with some flexibility required for busy periods. Pay is commensurate with experience.

Apply to: The Staff Partner, Silbury Chartered Accountants, North Street, Milborne Port, Sherborne DT9 5EW

FARM WORKER WANTED on dairy farm in Sturminster Newton. Telephone 01258-472162/472050

FULL TIME : PAINTER & DECORATOR REQUIRED. With established company. Phone Mark on 07930-492646

ROOFER REQUIRED for Slating & Tiling & lead work to join the team in Stalbridge Area Alternatively a person who is willing to learn the trade may be considered

Please contact us on 01963 362325

Recruitment

Experienced/qualified Bench Joiner required for our high qualit y bespoke joinery workshop. Interesting & varied work. Must be able to work on own initiative. Immediate start. Competitive salary. For further details and an application form please contact: 01963 23219 or david@fcuffandsons.co.u k

Sandroyd Co-ed Boarding and Day Prep and Pre-Prep School

Cleaner/Domestic Assistant Required Now

We seek a cheerful, energetic and hardworking individual to be part of the School’s cleaning team. Term time only.

Meals provided during working hours.

For further details, please contact:

Rupert Burnell-Nugent , Sandroyd, Rushmore, Tollard Royal, Nr Salisbury, SP5 5QD

Tel: 01725 516329

bursar@sandroyd.com

www.sandroyd.org

Sandroyd is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. This post involves contact with children and is classed as “regulated activity” by the UK government. As such, a number of mandated pre-employment checks (including an enhanced DBS check) will be undertaken to ensure that the successful candidate is suitable for work with children. Additionally, suitability for work with children will be assessed by taking up appropriate references and at interview. Finally, candidates should be aware that this post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020

EXPERIENCED HEAD GARDENER required for large established garden in East Knoyle. Hours/days by arrangement. Please contact Olivia 07777 651194, oasjcovell@gmail.com

GENERAL FARM WORKER REQUIRED on a self employed basis, minimum 2 days a week on a beef and sheep farm near Shaftesbury. Please call 07967 399793

COOK REQUIRED FOR POPULAR CAFE in Sturminster Newton to cover breakfast service and light lunches. Would suit good home cook. Hours negotiable. Personality more important than qualifications. Please call Tracy Tel: 07467234742

PART-TIME CARER / PA

East of Shaftesbury

For busy mother in wheelchair. Cheerfulness, kindness and flexibility more important than qualifications. Varied role as part of small team, with housekeeping, admin, personal care, meal prep, dog walks included. Strictly no smokers.

07790 524 241

CARPENTER WITH AN EYE FOR DETAIL wanted by small joinery workshop for fitting of joinery. Interesting and varied work, top rates paid for the right candidate. Contact 01935 872806 or joinery@ jbennettjoinery.com

TRACTOR DRIVER/GFW

to work full-time on 300 cow organic dairy farm

All field work carried out using modern equipment

Castle Cary, Somerset 07970 204309

JOINER/CARPENTER

Required to assist in the making & fitting of traditional joinery, based in modern workshop near Sturminster Newton. Contact: nigelbastable@ btinternet.com

07939 206968

CARAVAN VALETER

REQUIRED - We’re looking for a concientious person with good attention to detail to join our valeting team at Lady Bailey Caravans just outside of Blandford. Work includes caravan & motorhome interior valeting, exterior washing and on site duties. Full time. Mon-Fri. £10.50h. CV’s to recruit@ladybailey.co.uk

Office Junior

We have an opportunity to join the team at our Gillingham office. The role of office junior includes dealing with external telephone calls, assisting clients together with greeting in reception, general clerical duties including typing letters, filing and archiving, and other ad-hoc office work. There may also be an opportunity to learn bookkeeping and similar work.

No prior experience is required, but the successful candidate will have excellent communication skills, a confident telephone manner, a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Please send your CV by email to: chris@andpal.co.uk

J B GARDEN

SERVICES

We are looking for full time Hard Landscaper to join the team. We are looking for an experienced candidate, or an individual looking to add to their skills.Tel 07929 094811 CV to jbgardenservices@ live.co.uk Holwell, Dorset

Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

RELIEF GOAT MILKER wanted near Sherborne 07834-348694

WAITRESS REQUIRED

At Hays Park Retirement Apartments, Shaftesbury. Alternate Weekends 12pm-2pm. Vacancies also available for Relief Oncall Warden & Waitress to cover sickness & holidays. For further details please contact us on: 01747 830349 or email: hays. park@googlemail.com

THE PARISH COUNCIL OF FONTMELL MAGNA IN NORTH DORSET is seeking a Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer to support the council. Responsibilities include the preparation of agendas, taking the minutes at parish council meetings, dealing with correspondence. The Clerk is also the Responsible Financial Officer whose duties include paying invoices, budgeting and accounting.

The role will occupy 32 hours per month, attendance at evening meetings 10 times per year is required. Salary will be in accordance with the NJC scale LC1 (7-12) £11.63£12.73 but this could be a grade higher commensurate with experience and qualifications. A laptop is provided. For an informal discussion or further details, please contact Cllr Andrew Davis, Chair, Fontmell Magna on 07831 162446, email: andrewdavisfmpc@outlook.com

The Blackmore Vale Ltd continues to enjoy great success and we are looking for an experienced Account Manager

You will be managing a regular client base as well as generating new business selling into various magazines. Previous sales experience is required and you should be hungry for success.

The role is a hybrid of working from home/office and out and about within the Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire areas. You must own your own vehicle – a mileage allowance is paid.

Previous sales experience

Hungry for success

Hours are Monday to Friday 9am – 5.30pm. Salary is dependent on experience.

If you’ve got what it takes to be part of this fantastic team, please send your application to

debi.thorne@blackmorevale.net

Closing date for applications is Friday 26th May 2023.

CLEAN ROOM

PRODUCTION OPERATIVES REQUIRED

Local Medical Company based between Gillingham and Shaftesbury

Various Shifts Available

£11.01-£11.56 per hour

Email julie@ meditechsystems.co.uk

FIT, HARDWORKING PERSON REQUIRED for local firewood/ charcoal business.

Own transport is preferred. Chainsaw training available for the right applicant. Contact Jim for more details; jim@dorsetcharcoal.co.uk

Part time position in store Wednesdays, Fridays and every other Saturday

Available for a person to look after our online sales and social media.

If you have a passion for fashion and lingerie, please apply by email to shop@shirleyallum.co.uk or pop into the shop and see Shirley Allum for more information.

30 High Street, Shaftesbury, SP7 8JG

MECHANIC WANTED

We are a small family run business based in Gillingham, and are currently looking for a mechanic to join our friendly team. The role will include, but is not limited to, servicing and repairs of a wide range of garden machinery. 2 stroke machinery experience would be desirable. 40 hours a week, Monday – Friday, 8.30 – 5.00. If you would like to join this small and busy team, please send your CV to accounts@gillinghamgardenmachinery.co.uk

SITUATIONS

EXPERIENCED LIVE–IN CARER available from mid/end of May in the Sherborne/ Shaftesbury/Gillingham area. DBS checked and fully qualified. Please call 07733 196677

WANTED

RETIRED PUBLISHING PERSON familiar with page-layout to compile children’s picture book. Brief texts need typesetting and combining with alreadyscanned illustrations.

07979-187443

YOUR MARY POPPINS IS HERE!

Over 30 years of experience. Honest, trustworthy, hard-working, reliable. Looking for live-in housekeeper job. House sitting and will look after any pets.

07836 361738

Property Developments & Joinery

W: builders-south-west.co.uk

T: 01963824444

E: info@hhpltd.co.uk

BENCH JOINER VACANCY

Experience in all aspects of traditional joinery & woodworking machinery. Ability to work alone & as a team. Full time, employed, workshop-based position (Wincanton), occasional site fitting. Paid weekly (pay dependant on experience).

Please apply through our Office or Website

VACANCY

PARTS SALES STAFF

AGRICULTURAL TRACTORS & MACHINERY

Francis Bugler Limited are seeking a Parts Sales person to support the growth at our Bere Regis depot

We have some of the best franchises available including New Holland, Kuhn, Joskin, Honda and Kawasaki. We will offer a competitive financial package and the opportunity to work for one of the UK’s top New Holland dealers. Experience an advantage but not essential – training offered

Please apply in writing with full CV to; vacancies@buglers.co.uk

BLACKMORE VALE JOBS GROUP

ADMINSTRATOR

sought for family office in the Wincombe Centre, Shaftesbury. One morning a week, £15 per hour. Please call 07742 419491

Pamphill Dairy Farm Shop Butchery Manager

We have an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic individual to join and manage our Butchery. The position will involve continuing to expand the business in our newly refurbished shop, working along side and managing our butchery team.

We’re looking for an experienced, knowledgeable Butcher with excellent customer service and a passion for sourcing and supporting local produce. A generous renumeration package will be offered to the right candidate.

If you feel this role is for you, and would like more information about the position please email your C.V. to: jackrichards@chilbridgefarm.co.uk

www.pamphilldairy.co.uk

Landscapers and labourers needed.

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.

07792892999

info@greenhavenlandscapes.co.uk

Agricultural Machinery Engineer

Salisbury, SP5 5NU

£22,000 - £35,000 a year pro rata

Full Time or Flexibly Days, Min 3 days per week. Permanent

Benefits: Company Van, Company Pension, Rural location

COMMUNITY OUTREACH WORKER

Age Concern North Dorset (ACND) would like to recruit a Community Outreach Worker, initially for a 1-year project, to engage with our local community and support the promotion and development of our services

This exciting role will suit someone living within the local area with a good understanding of the needs of older people and who has experience of social media and IT. The successful candidate will attend a wide range of events, meet with a variety of different organisations and local providers as well as provide information for individuals to engage with local activities and services in order to improve their health and wellbeing.

We are looking for someone who will have the use of their own car for 6-8 hours per week, can be flexible and is able to communicate well and build good working relationships. This is a new project and if successful could be extended. Additionally, hours will depend on the work generated. For an application form and job description please call Age Concern North Dorset on 01258 475582 . No CV’s required.

A great opportunity for a competent agricultural engineer to join our friendly family machinery business in North Dorset. As an established Solis tractor dealer covering Dorset, Wiltshire & Hampshire we are looking for an enthusiastic and experienced engineer to work on our range of Solis compact tractors and attachments. The role includes a mix of preparing new tractor and attachments at our fully equipped depot to servicing Solis tractors and equipment on site. An equipped service van can be provided for work use, so a full driving license is essential. We also offer opportunities to assist at local agricultural shows and additional financial rewards to assist in selling our range of machinery. We require a competent person who has a good understanding of machinery, able to work on their own initiative, self-motivated and has pride in their work. We can accommodate flexible work days/hours to suit. Salary dependent on experience.

If you would like to be part of our team or would like more information please contact James Chick on james@tallut.co.uk or Tel: 07920 101595

CLASSIFIED ADS

LADIES RALEIGH BIKE

Nice condition £80

07856 937590

DEWALT BS 30/10

BANDSAW

Good condition £60

01297 560488

BARGAIN! FOR SALE!

Mobility Scooter

Aerolite Plus Kymco

4 wheels, fits in car boot

Sherborne. Good condition

£400 ono 07932-062910

PIANO KEYBOARD

Casio Privia Model

PX160BK with stand

£249 - 07980 146315

Items for sale

3 CAST IRON BATHS

3 Belfast type sinks Calf rearing items including buckets with teets

Porta-cabin 18.2 ft x 7.6 ft Large cider tank with tap 01749-812222

07842-142435

20 foot shipping container

£3650

One trip container purchased Oct 2021 for domestic use ColourRAL1015 - Light Ivory. Upgraded with Grafo Therm Heavy Duty Padlock, Dampstick, Buyer collects 07894 671101

FREE CLASSIFIED ADS

LARGE PARROT CAGE £30 and large metal dog crate £20 Tel: 01963-362779

HAND LAWN-MOWER BOSCH Hardly used

Bought 2 years but only used approx. 6 times £20 01258 452166

6 COCKTAILS TABLES

£30 ono 07933 633424

CASTROL CLASSIC XL 20w-50 engine oil, 1 gallon sealed can.

£30 Tel: 07721 530520

VACUUM CLEANER SEBO upright. Anti-allergy Perfect working order £50 01305 849490 (Tolpuddle)

VINTAGE FISHING TACKLE

3 1960 £40 ono Tel:01258 473193

USED FISH POND WITH PUMP AND FILTER £25 01258 821259

Width-102cm. Length-162cm Depth-54cm. Buyer Collects

HOBBS WOMEN’S ANKLE BOOTS. Chocolate brown leather. Size 6 with heel. Never worn. £15. 01258 820864

CIGARETTE CARDS Pro-set football 1990/1991, Castella Transport, Castle National/Derby Winners. Tony 07598 982824

BEKO UPRIGHT FRIDGE/ FREEZER Good condition £35 West Lydford 01963 240686

CYCLE MINI TRACK PUMP. Topeak Turbo MORPH G with pressure gauge £10 Kington Magna 01747-838882

WOODEN COT AND MATTRESS, high chair, bouncy chair, bath, vgc (grandparents) £50 Tel: 07483 809142

TEAK COLOURED BOOKSHELVES unit with cupboards under 2m x1.95mx32cm £50 Tel.01258 628324 buyer collects

BOSCH DISH WASHER

SGS55EO2/Fr/11 2.3 Kw. In good condition £50 Contact 07866-163703

FREE - WORKING KITCHEN UNDER-COUNTER, integrated freezer (Siemans), fridge (Bosch) and washing machine (Siemans). Available late May/early June. Call 01747 685664 if interested.

GOLF CLUBS

Full set of lefthanded Slazenger golf clubs and trolley £50 01935 421313

WEIGHTLIFTING BENCH WITH WEIGHTS. Used. Surplus To Requirement. £20 Open To Offers 07707 112910

VINTAGE ESSE SOLID FUEL RANGE COOKER. Happy to give away for free 01258 820356

ELECTRIC FIRE £10. Ring 01935 813967 GENTS DARK BLUE VELVET JACKET 48 inch chest in mint condition, bargain for £20. Tel. 01823 480848

TEAK EXTENDING CIRCULAR DINING TABLE, plus four, cream fabric covered chairs. All immaculate. £40 per item. Tel: 01747 841101

LATERAL TRAINER £20 Tel: 07766 223843

10 GLASS PUNCHBOWL SET Leaf design, ladle, hooks included, unused. Mere area £15 01747 830656

BEKO UNDER-COUNTER FRIDGE. Condition as new. 40 pounds. 07731-580011

GYM EQUIPMENT - BODY SOLID BENCH flat/incline/decline plus leg developer. £50 o.n.o. 01747 840473 evenings.

DAWES KALAHARI MEN’S BIKE 26” wheels. Excellent condition £50. Buyer collects. 01258 861623

WINDSOR SLAT BACK CARVER CHAIR, one side post needs attention. £20 ono 07903 907008

RYOBI RK-32L powerful grass strimmer. Good working order. 2-cord head. £30. 01963 34299

16 INCH ROTARY LAWN MOWER Briggs & Stratton engine with grass box. £30 ono 01747 825237

24 CD CLASSICAL MUSIC COMPILATION

Boxed set. Excellent condition, each in separate info booklet

Mere area £25 01747 830656

DARK OAK TABLE WITH DRAWER Length 24 inch

Width 18 inch, Height 24 inch

£30 Tel: 07856 937590

LECTURN £50 Tel:07802 468235

IRON GATE VERY HEAVY in very good condition 40” wide Painted Green & White £30 O7762 321421 HAYLAGE

RETRO CURVED METAL

CD RACK (chrome) excellent condition £18

Kington Magna 01747 838882

HIGEAR CORRIE SEASON 2 double sleeping bag. Brand new, never used. £20. 07874 266213. Blandford

GIANT HOLLYWOOD BIKE, mauve, good condition, £50 ono. Tel: 01258-830233

FOLDING CAMPING TABLE with 4 stools. As new £25 Tel: 07929-639692

FREE CLASSIFIED ADS WANTED

EMPTY NESTERS WANTING 1 OR 2 OLD-FASHIONED WOODEN-ROOMY chest of drawers 07979-187443

OLD BOOKS BOUGHT. Will call by appointment entirely without obligation. Bristow & Garland 07392 602014

LADIES ELECTRIC BIKEBRAND NEW Small chest freezer-good condition. Double wardrobe-good condition 07956 000580

WANTED ALL TYPES OF CAR TRAILERS, cash paid 07736 871092

FREE AD up to £50

LIBRARY TROLLEY £50 01963 23723

LACOSTE YACHTING JACKET. Worn once. Bargain £45. 01935-413554

GAS BARBECUE. Only used a few times. £50 ono 01258 472331

ft square bales

wraps Call 07860 759996

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

1 ad per contact number please limit to 15 words or less classified@ blackmorevale.net

When vomiting and diarrhoea need a vet’s help

by Lynn Broom Longmead Veterinary Practice

DOGS especially are prone to getting diarrhoea and, though less frequently, vomiting. Cats are generally less prone because they are usually more discerning and less likely to eat inappropriate items.

Most episodes in dogs are short-lived and self-limiting, often resolving within 24 hours. If your pet is bright and well, is eating normally and is not losing a lot of fluid through vomiting or liquid diarrhoea, then they can often be managed at home. If, however, their symptoms are not resolving, then veterinary advice should be sought.

Following research, it has been established that the digestive system heals more quickly if it is fed but not

WANTED

SMALL DOG, TERRIER TYPE/CROSSBREED, 5+ years for experienced dog owner. Single household

Large, safe garden Daily country walks 01722 322442

overloaded. This can be achieved by feeding a highly digestible, low fat, preferably wet food, which includes a protein they have had before, which they have not had an adverse reaction to previously.

Feeding small amounts more frequently such as six or seven times a day ensures the gut is receiving nutrition, but it is not being overloaded. In the short term you are feeding the intestines to heal and not your dog’s normal appetite.

After 24 to 48 hours a gradual return to your pet’s normal food can resume if the symptoms have resolved. If your pet has recurrent episodes of diarrhoea then it is worth considering the underlying causes and discussing this with your vet because they may have an underlying infection, a

FOR SALE, LABRADOR PUPPIES fox red,parents are hip/eye/elbow scored, and are kc registered, both parents can be seen,pups are wormed up to date and are microchipped. £800, phone: 07800 755862

dietary intolerance or a chronic abnormality of the gut flora.

Recurrent vomiting, particularly if your pet cannot keep down food or water, needs veterinary assessment. Small amounts of blood in diarrhoea can be normal when the bowel is inflamed but large amounts require intervention. Dogs can go for several days without eating if they are drinking or not losing too much fluid, but cats need to eat regularly and can quickly develop secondary problems from not eating.

Occasional vomiting which

KITTENS BENGALXTABBY

8wks gorgeous! DT11 £250ono 07710 949035 The New Blackmore Vale Magazine

does not resolve despite dietary management needs assessment. Diarrhoea which continues for more than several days and either doesn’t improve or recurs quickly needs assessment. Any progressive deterioration should be investigated and appropriate treatment started where necessary.

Knowing how to manage simple digestive disorders and knowing when to get further advice will mean you can manage at home where appropriate and get further assistance when necessary.

COCKER SPANIEL PUPPIES

Show. Blue roan. KC reg. Insured 01202 715113

LURCHER FEMALE

19 months 23tts looking for 5star home only personal circumstances forces sale serious enquiries only please £800 please call for further information 07503 905659

Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

Dogs are more prone to getting diarrhoea than cats, which are usually more discerning and less likely to eat inappropriate items.

PHOTO: ewa pniewska/Pixabay

MID DORSET BRANCH CATS PROTECTION

Cats looking for new homes

n Sammy (14 years).

Sammy is a very gentle, gorgeous chunky monkey

n Aston (10 years). Looking for a country home to call his own

BEHAVIOUR TIPS

Tip #38: How does my dog know what behaviour I’m trying to train?

by Helen Taylor

n Bagheera (eight years). Lovely boy looking for a quiet home with no children or other pets

n Ben (two years). Looking for an ‘outdoorsy’ home with somewhere to keep warm

MANY owners think it’s obvious to our dogs exactly what behaviour we are trying to train him to do – for example, a ‘sit’ – because we reward and/or praise him when he does it. However, to your dog this is not necessarily obvious at all.

Firstly, because humans have a habit of mistakenly doing things that are highly unpleasant to dogs when trying to give ’praise’.

Having a hand stuck out and his head stroked is almost universally disliked by dogs, so it will most definitely NOT be seen as an incentive to do the behaviour again.

Secondly, because, by the time the treat arrives, he may already be thinking or doing something different from the behaviour you were trying to train.

We also have a number of oldies looking for a loving home in their twilight years and a special end-of-life carer to look after an old girl who needs a lap to cuddle on. Outdoors cats looking for homes – farms, stables etc For details, please call our helpline on 01258 858644 or visit our website www.cats.org.uk/blandford.

LOST CATS

If you have lost a cat, please contact us via our website, phone or Facebook. Please make sure we have a contact phone number so we can get in touch with you quickly if needed.

FOUND CATS

If you regularly see a cat that you don’t think has an owner, please give us a call – it might be a lost cat that could be reunited with its owner. n Fluffy black and white, Blandford, reported March 20

We are still offering neutering and micro-chipping for £5 in postcode areas DT10 and DT11, SP7 and SP8, and BH21. Phone: 01258 268695.

He may be staring at your hand, or pocket, he may have been distracted by something else in the environment and be thinking about that, or he may have started to stand up or jump up as the treat advances towards him.

Whatever he is doing or thinking at the time he gets the treat is what he will believe prompted it and is what he is most likely to try to repeat in future.

n Helen Taylor BSc(Hons) ADipCBM; certificated Clinical Animal Behaviourist (CCAB); ABTC register of Clinical Animal Behaviourists and Animal Training Instructors; full member APBC & APDT (881); phone: 07951 985193; help@helentaylordorset.co.uk; www. helentaylordorset.co.uk

Science Week youngsters walk in the

STUDENTS from more than 10% of primary schools across England and Wales stepped into farmers’ shoes to take part in NFU Education’s live lessons during British Science Week 2023.

With 190,000 pupils from 3,434 schools – a record number – getting involved in the Science Farm Live project, the virtual lessons brought British farmers into classrooms nationwide, showcasing how interconnected farming is with key science

subjects.

This year’s programme used British Science Week’s theme of ‘connections’ to focus on the unusual connections between farming and other sectors, taking place over three virtual lessons.

n How are tractors connected to space? NFU next generation forum chair Eveey Hunter looked at what materials a tractor is built from and how her tractors can drive themselves using GPS.

n How are pigs connected to jumbo jets? Pupils met NFU next

generation forum member Flavian Obiero and his pig dog Rex, and learnt how he keeps his pigs happy and healthy.

n How are sheep connected to seaweed? Shepherdess Susie Parish, sheep farmer Emma Boyles, wool innovator Kate Drury, and Steve Allnutt from the Sussex Seabed Restoration Project followed the journey of wool from the sheep to the seabed to help restore sea kelp populations.

NFU president Minette

Batters said: “Our Science Farm Live programme has been an incredible success, with more than 10% of primary schools in England and Wales learning about science first hand from farmers this week.

“The fact that this is the highest number of students and schools who have registered in the programme’s history shows that teachers are increasingly recognising the value of teaching science through the lens of food and farming.

Times of plenty and the ‘Hungry Gap’

by A J Selby

A wet May makes a good load of hay.

IN this time of relative plenty and produce filling our supermarket shelves from across the globe, it’s easy to forget that a generation or two before me would dread the month or six weeks from early April to late May. ‘For what reason’, you may ask? Well, this was the time known as the ‘Hungry Gap’, a time when there was little to eat, neither flesh nor fowl, nor fruit or vegetables.

Animals kept through the autumn and early winter would have been eaten by the time the weather started to warm up, as it would have been hard to keep the meat fresh without the freezers that we so take for granted today. Poultry will only start to come back into lay as the daylight increases and there is little fresh picked British grown seasonal veg that doesn’t come out of a chiller warehouse. The winter roots of parsnip and swede are starting to sprout flower spikes and go woody, leeks are also rising to flower and while the winter cabbage have finished, the spring cabbage are a little way off harvest.

Even crops in dry storage like onions and garlic, shallots and marrows are either past good eating or are showing green shoots – likewise potatoes

whose chits growing out of a shrivelled tuber are a foot long in sacks in the dark. There is very little fresh to complement dried pulses and mushrooms. There is a tendency to think of winter being the hardest months to survive in the past, with Christmas cards often depicting peasants dressed in sacking bent double with a bundle of firewood on their backs, but late spring was tougher for finding food.

Many country people turned to wild greenstuffs for sustenance of which the humble stinging nettle was king. A plant that is early to rise from winter dormancy, its young leaves are nutritious and tasty, provided that they are par-boiled to remove the sting. (Participants in the national raw stinging nettle eating championships will poo-poo this, of course). You will often find clumps of nettles around old overgrown gardens as past owners would cultivate them for early greens – Samuel

The dawn chorus is reaching its crescendo in late spring and the cacophony of competing birdsong early in the morning is a treasure unequalled in nature PHOTO: Manfred Richter/ Pixabay

Pepys grew some under glass and enjoyed ‘nettle porridge’ in the late 1600s, although this was probably just a thick gruel.

Other staples include chickweed, hairy bittercress and dandelion, as well as the young leaf buds of the hawthorn, or may tree. The buds have a nutty flavour and are known as ‘bread and cheese’ by us older country folk, not because they taste like it but because a traveller or drover may have had little else to eat on his wanderings and so these buds and young leaves became his bread and cheese. Some fresh meat was, of course, available, chiefly rabbit, but many a poor family had to risk the wrath of the landowner lest they should be caught poaching.

Today, of course, these worries are behind us despite recent supply issues and cost seems more of a problem to many than availability. For myself, May is my favourite month of the year, particularly as we edge towards June when

all chance of frost has passed and the days are warm and exciting. The dawn chorus is reaching its crescendo and the cacophony of competing birdsong early in the morning is a treasure unequalled in nature – if you haven’t risen early one late spring morning and headed off to the nearest wood then I urge you to do so this year.

Of course, birdsong is only part of the tapestry of this time of year – everywhere around us sees new life as butterflies emerge, mammals breed or give birth, reptiles come out to sun themselves and the first bats of summer circle around in the warm evenings.

Stand still in the spinney and watch the fox cubs emerge and play like young children; lie down in a meadow and see the dart of the swallow just above your head as he skims the top of the sward for insects and then look higher at the sky and enjoy the crescendo song of the skylark, or sit by the riverbank and enjoy the dragonflies and damselflies darting around as the sunshine reflects off the iridescent colours of their bodies and wings.

Spring is just the best time of year for so many reasons so promise yourself to make the most of whatever nature has to offer, and enjoy every colourful moment, every song and each and every minute of spring magic.

shoes of farmers

“Science is ingrained in almost every aspect of agriculture, and by bringing farming into classrooms across the country, these lessons help bring often stale subjects to life.

“I hope this week will inspire students and ignite an interest in a future in science, especially in our fantastic British food and farming sector.”

NFU next generation forum chair Eveey Hunter said: “It is so important to get in front of students and showcase what

amazing things the agricultural sector can do. Many children have never been on a farm before and being able to introduce them to farming and see their excitement as they learn is amazing.

“Not only is it a great way for us to engage with our future consumers from a young age and get them interested in farming, but it can also show young people the opportunities available within the food and farming sector.”

One ewe down, lots of lambs to follow

by Tria Stebbing

A BUSY time with the flock.

We have moved the rams back into their home village to take advantage of some good grass in the field next to ours. We had to set up quite an extensive electric fence to keep them in the area that was safe for them.

Allowing plenty of time, we took the stock tailer up to the paddock to load them up and, anticipating an issue, we were armed with buckets of feed and ginger biscuits. Two of the rams are always a bit tricky to load and then spook the rest, who become unsettled and run off. So we parked up and set up some hurdles, made a small enclosed area to coax them into and took a deep breath – with that they all calmly loaded themselves into the trailer ready for the short hop to the next field.

Has it finally sunk in that every time we load them up, the grass gets better? It was hoped that it would take a while to munch down the grass, but having been up to check on them earlier, it is apparent that it was indeed good grass, because most of it has gone.

Sunday morning was spent cleaning out the shelter ready to make up clean straw beds for the pregnant ewes. As they were due from the Monday onwards, we had left it very late, the mud putting us off doing much the week before.

We are borrowing a shelter in the home village that previously housed goats and it is beautiful, if you like old barns. Cobwebs, old nests, holes and burrows under the floor, and useful nails hammered in many moons ago, all go to make a great shelter to lamb in.

We cleaned it all out, sprayed disinfectant and then set up pens with fresh straw. Put together a lambing box of essentials, a random scavenger hunt of gloves, iodine, kickstart, scissors, as well as old towels and hand gel. At last, we

were ready for lambing, so after checking in on the pregnant ewes, we returned home for a cuppa, leaving them grazing

happily in the paddock.

As the ewes were not far off lambing, him outdoors went down to check them before we turned in for the night. Shortly afterwards the phone rang and all I could hear was a cacophony of baa’ing, followed by a request to get there quickly. All that effort making everything nice, warm and sterile – and 63 had gone and lambed in the middle of the mud patch at the far end of the paddock. Two very big strong ram lambs were already in fine voice and up on their feet. We moved her slowly down to the comfort of the shelter, where she heaved a sigh before tucking into some much-needed ewe nuts and hay.

The Zwartbles breed never fails to amaze us with its perfect lambing and strong bond with its lambs, and we can thoroughly recommend them to anyone thinking of starting a flock of their own. One down – many more to follow.

GUNS WANTED FOR CASH

ALSO GUNS FOR SALE

SOS to all air rifles and pistols, any make or model, any condition. We collect in any area. Top prices paid in cash.

Some 190,000 youngsters took part in the Science Farm Live project

The Zwartbles have a strong bond with their lambs

Farmers a pawn in store price wars

by Ruth Kimber

I KNOW I keep on about the farm gate milk price, but really isn’t it time dairy farmers were properly rewarded for the hard work, big investment and long-term commitment that dairying demands?

Our son Tom was on the BBC Points West News, having been contacted to give his point of view. He pointed out the facts and figures – at the current rate we will lose £437 a day. How can we make up the difference – all our costs are significantly higher than when the price was 38ppl a year ago, which is now what it has gone back to. Some of the higher costs have come back a bit but many remain high, including wages and electric contracts.

One gets tired of the same old, same old. Milk is used as a draw, usually at the back of a supermarket to lure customers through the store, and then price wars begin between the supermarkets offering ever cheaper milk – at the farmer’s expense. The truth is many shoppers don’t know the price of the milk they have put into their basket, they just know they want it and that it is good food value.

At last, we let the cows out by day and they were very pleased. They seem to know when the gate is about to be opened. They were all waiting, stretching their necks to see what was going on. However, they don’t get as excited as when we were children and the milking cows were housed in cow stalls. They were tied into a stall – they could get up and down comfortably and were let out once a day to exercise and for the cowman – our fathers – to clean out the muck by pitchfork and wheelbarrow. The cows never seemed to mind coming back in – in fact, they took ownership of a particular stall, using the same one all winter.

Their food was carried by hand to the

manger in front of each cow. Bedding was also a hand job, sawdust or straw. The cows were also milked in the stalls, firstly by hand, then in the late 1940s the first milking machines reached the market. This speeded up milking time – there was a vacuum pipeline in front of the cows where the bucket plant was attached, this ran the pulsators and the vacuum. When the bucket was filled, the top workings was transferred to an empty bucket and the full bucket of milk was carried to the dairy, where it was poured into the clean 10 gallon (45.5 litres) churns – health and safety had deemed the 17 gallon (77kg of milk) churns too heavy!

Next it was cooled using an in-churn cooler, a piece of equipment that had a long coiled pipe that went into the milk with a mushroom-shaped top with holes along the outside edge. A cold water hose was attached to the top of the mushroom, the cold water travelled down the pipes in the church and the pressure rotated the coils. The water came back up and was directed to the inner side of the mushroom and forced through the little holes on the rim, the water trickling down the outside of the church,

cooling the milk from the outside as well.

The milk from my parents’ farm was collected by lorry and taken to Wincanton’s Cow & Gate factory to be made into baby milk powder. I can remember the sound of the lorry full of churns, fastened in by chains on the outside – the music the lorry made with the churns and chains varied as the empty churns were replaced by full ones.

Paul’s family sold their milk to the Barbers, a cousin of the Ditcheat Barbers, who made cheese in South Brewham, then moved to Lovington as the business grew. Sadly, they no longer make cheese, but, of course, their cousins still do.

There were fewer cows per farm then, with many more dairy farms, but more hard hand work.

n Kimber’s 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.

Tom Kimber was featured on local television news talking about milk prices

Meeting high standards in British farming

by Becca Price BVetMed

MRCVS

Friars Moor Livestock Health

WE are very lucky here at Friars Moor to work with such proactive and forward-thinking farmers. There is always much scrutiny in the media concerning antibiotic residues and animal welfare, but industry standards and regulations are well adhered to, and it is very evident on farm the care that goes into running a dairy, beef or sheep farm.

Most of our farmers are signed up to the Red Tractor assurance scheme –the familiar logo on British produce often seen in supermarkets. By being a Red Tractor accredited farm they are regularly inspected and adhere to certain conditions as laid out for each enterprise.

One such condition is having a Herd/Flock Health Plan produced with their routine vet.

This health plan allows the vet and farmer to sit down and discuss what is going well, what issues they’ve identified over the last year and what needs to be done in future to maintain high standards.

This proactive approach allows us to look at the herd/ flock statistics, identify problems and find the best solutions – such as starting vaccinations or running diagnostics. Year on year it is good to look back at these plans, and quite often we see that through these discussions and plans a significant reduction in antibiotic usage is made.

Indeed, in terms of reducing antibiotic usage in farm animals the UK is reaching and exceeding targets. Since 2014 the sale of antibiotics for food-producing animals has halved, meaning that only 30% of the UK’s total antibiotic

usage is attributed to farm animals (source: NFU).

Not only this, but there are very strict controls in using antibiotics and other drugs for food-producing species. All our dairy farmers are required to attend a Milksure course, teaching them about appropriate antibiotic treatment and withdrawal periods designed to stop antibiotic milk residues from entering the bulk milk tank and being distributed to buyers. Regular testing ensures compliance. Similarly, all Red Tractor clients are required to attend a Medicines course, to learn about appropriate usage.

As in many situations, prevention is always better than

cure. There are many ways to achieve this – good hygiene and biosecurity, regular monitoring of animals and vaccinations being some of them. We run regular meetings for our beef and sheep farmers, as well as a Youngstock rearing group, which allows discussions and positive change to be made by creating conversation around common issues and good solutions.

Working with our farmers it is evident that we are incredibly lucky to have such high standards of health and welfare on British farms, and now more than ever it is important to back British farming to ensure it stays that way.

The UK is reaching and exceeding targets in terms of reducing antibiotic usage in farm animals

Becca Price

THE YARD LILLINGTON SHERBORNE

DT9 6QX

Dispersal Sale By Auction On The Premises Of Vintage Tractors; 1940 Fordson Standard Row Crop, 1942 Fordson Standard, 1949 Fordson E27N P6, Minneapolis-Moline BG, Fordson Major, Fordson Super Major, Ford 5000 Roadless 4WD, Ford 7610 4WD, Ford 5610 4WD, Ford 4610 2WD, 3 x Massey Ferguson 35, Case 1594 4WD, David Brown 996,1916 Ford Model T 2 Seat Roadster Pickup, Farm Implements, Machinery, Large Quantity Spare Parts, Hand Tools, Power Tools, Fencing Equipment & Miscellanea.

Also Introduced By Permission;

Farmhall ‘H’, Fordson Major, Ford 8100 2WD, Ford 7810

Ford 4600, Ford 4100, IH 250, Trailer, Ploughs, Balers etc.

2 TIPPER TRACTOR TRAILERS

1 Flat Bail Trailer, 1 Trailer altered to carry timber

1 Diesel Bowser bunded trailer (not road legal)

May need some attention, Sensible offers on all items. Please contact: 07770 778740

Deadline to place your advert is the Friday before publication.

BRAMSHAW HILL ABERDEEN ANGUS BULLS for sale

Performance recorded and TB tested. Telephone Howard Smith on 07850 813060

GOOD ROUND BALE

NATURAL MEADOW HAY 01963 23278

DAVIS FENCING LTD

Agricultural/Equestrian Fencing & Land clearance davisfencingltd@gmail.com 07707 069096

RECO MENGELE SH40 FORAGER

Good working order New in 2000. Barn-stored 01747 852195

DAVIS FENCING 07707 069096

Agriculture Fencing Land clearance

IN ALL SOME 400 LOTS ON SATURDAY 13TH MAY 2023

Commencing at 10.30am

Catalogues Available in Due Course from:Southern Counties Auctioneers Salisbury Auction Centre Netherhampton Road Salisbury SP2 8RH or from www.scauctioneers.com

WANTED HOME FOR SMALL WELL-ESTABLISHED SUCKLER HERD on either share-farming or headage agreement.

Preferably Somerset, Dorset or Wilts. Please phone 01963 458199.

8746 HEAD OF STOCK SOLD IN APRIL

FUTURE SALES

CARAVAN REMOVAL SERVICE, old, unwanted caravans, cars, trailers, vans etc. Garden machinery, tractors, scrap metal. Yard, garden, garage removal clearances undertaken, dismantling and gas cutting service. Please call 01935 873169 or 07368 380477

18 ROUND BALE

REGISTERED blackmorevale.net

CATTLE

Topping, chain harrowing, rolling etc

450050

RAM, full-mouth, good stock getter 07718 046814

BARN WANTED TO RENT

&Sampson

Symonds &Sampson

Free Farm Valuation Week

Stoke Wake, Dorset 53.99 acres (21.85 ha)

Stoke Wake, Dorset 21.87 acres (8.85 ha)

An adaptable small farm in a pretty location in the heart of Dorset.

Lot 1 – traditional farmhouse for modernisation (ag-tie), brick & stone barns, 11-bay farm building in 12.80 ac. EPC: F. CTB: F. Guide £750,000

We’re inviting entries for our first auction of the year, to be held on 2 March in Wimborne. Entries so far include a number of properties for renovation, agricultural and building land, and even a barge!

Lot 2 – modern 3 bedroom detached farmhouse (ag-tie), garden office and paddock, in total 6.72 ac. EPC: E. CTB: E ............... Guide £650,000 Lot 3 – 21.5 acres pasture & 12.8 acres woodland ...... Guide £300,000 Freehold

We’re inviting entries for our first auction of the year, to be held on 2 March in Wimborne. Entries so far include a number of properties for renovation, agricultural and building land, and even a barge!

We’re inviting entries for our first auction of the year, to be held on 2 March in Wimborne. Entries so far include a number of properties for renovation, agricultural and building land, and even a barge!

We’re inviting entries for our first auction of the year, to be held on 2 March in Wimborne. Entries so far include a number of properties for renovation, agricultural and building land, and even a barge!

A particularly well-equipped small farm in a pleasant rural spot on the edge of the Blackmore Vale. 3 bedroom farmhouse (ag-tie) with impressive main living room and kitchen, annex, mobile home, substantial range of modern steel frame farm buildings, approx. 16,000 sq.ft, large yard, pond and level pasture land. EPC: E. CTB: E. Freehold

To find out how this fast and efficient method of sale and purchase can work for you, please contact: Mark Lewis | 01258 473766

Andrew Tuffin 01258 472244

To find out how this fast and efficient method of sale and purchase can work for you, please contact:

To find out how this fast and efficient method of sale and purchase can work for you, please contact:

acres

To find out how this fast and efficient method of sale and purchase can work for you, please contact:

Andrew Tuffin 01258 472244 Guide £1,400,000

Mark Lewis | 01258 473766

Mark Lewis | 01258 473766

Mark Lewis | 01258 473766

Meredith Holmes | 01202 843190

Meredith Holmes | 01202 843190

Meredith Holmes | 01202 843190

Holmes | 01202 843190

Graham Barton | 01297 33122

We currently have 880 farm buyers and 1,505 land buyers registered. Our team, pictured below visiting buyers in London, are the best in their field at selling Farms, Estates, Land and Rural Property. For a free, no obligation, market appraisal for sale purposes, call one of our specialist farm agents.

Graham Barton | 01297 33122

Barton | 01297 33122

Graham Barton | 01297 33122

100% success rate at our December Auction

100% success rate at our December Auction

100% success rate at our December Auction

Martin, Hampshire

15.56 acres (6.30 ha)

Wareham, Dorset

30.00 acres (12.14 ha)

An exceptionally well positioned smallholding with a 4 bedroom detached farmhouse for modernisation, a 1 bedroom annex, a substantial range of farm buildings and pasture land. EPC: E. CTB: G. Freehold

Affpuddle Sold 21% above guide

Affpuddle

Affpuddle Sold 21% above guide

334323

Sold 21% above guide

West Morden Sold 45% above guide

West Morden

Sold 45% above guide

West Morden Sold 45% above guide

Andrew Tuffin 01258 472244 Guide £1,200,000

A block of predominantly level lying permanent pasture, with an adjoining small silver birch woodland. The soil is freely draining, slightly acidic and loamy. The land benefits from good vehicular access and an abundant network of bridleways and footpaths nearby. Freehold

Winterbourne Houghton Sold 233% above guide

Winterbourne Houghton

Sold 233% above guide

Winterbourne Houghton Sold 233% above guide

Morgan Clement 01202 843193 Guide £450,000

Symonds &Sampson

Symonds &

Symonds

| DEVON | SOMERSET | HAMPSHIRE | WILTSHIRE

DORSET | DEVON

We’re inviting entries for our first auction of the year, to be held on 2 March in Wimborne. Entries so far include a number of properties for renovation, agricultural

We’re inviting entries for our first auction of the year, to be held on 2 March in Wimborne. Entries so far include a number of properties for renovation, agricultural and building land, and even a barge!

find out how this fast and efficient method of sale and purchase can work for you,

To find out how this fast and efficient method of sale and purchase can work for you, please contact:

Mark Lewis | 01258 473766 Meredith Holmes | 01202 843190 Graham Barton | 01297 33122

Affpuddle Sold 21% above guide

Mark Lewis

Mark Lewis | 01258 473766

100% success rate at our December Auction

100% success rate at our December Auction

Affpuddle 21% above guide West Morden Sold 45% above guide

We’re inviting Wimborne. Entries

Meredith Holmes | 01202 843190

Graham Barton | 01297 33122

West Morden Sold 45% above guide

Winterbourne Houghton Sold 233% above guide

Winterbourne Houghton Sold 233% above guide

| 01258 473766 Meredith Holmes | 01202 843190 Graham Barton | 01297 33122 Affpuddle Sold 21% above guide West Morden Sold 45% above guide Winterbourne Houghton Sold 233% above guide 100% success rate at our December Auction Symonds Sampson SOLD SOLD SOLD SALES | LETTINGS | AUCTIONS | PLANNING | NEW HOMES SYMONDSANDSAMPSON.CO.UK SOLD SOLD SOLD SSTC SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD Dorset 143 acres Dorset 389 acres Somerset 183 acres Somerset 124 acres Dorset 300 acres Devon 70 acres Berkshire 22 acres Hampshire 28 acres Cornwall 19 acres In 2022 we sold over 3,500 acres across 8 counties. We currently have 880 farm buyers and 1,505 land buyers registered. Our team, pictured below visiting buyers in London, are the best in their field at selling Farms, Estates, Land and Rural Property. For a free, no obligation, market appraisal for sale purposes, call one of our specialist farm agents. Andrew Tuffin Head of Farm Agency 01258 472244 Lucy Carnell Somerset 01935 382901 Jack Edwards Wiltshire & Hampshire 01722 334323 Will Wallis Dorset 01305 236572 Ross Willmington Devon 01297 33122 6th - 10th February 2023 Free Farm Valuation Week SOLD Dorset 107 acres SOLD Devon 66 acres SOLD Exmoor 54 acres Symonds &Sampson SALES | LETTINGS | AUCTIONS | PLANNING | NEW HOMES SYMONDSANDSAMPSON.CO.UK SOLD SOLD SOLD SSTC SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD Dorset 143 acres Dorset 389 acres Somerset 183 acres Somerset 124 acres Dorset 300 acres Devon 70 acres Berkshire 22 acres Hampshire 28 acres Cornwall 19 acres In 2022 we sold over 3,500 acres across 8 counties. We currently have 880 farm buyers and 1,505 land buyers registered. Our team, pictured below visiting buyers in London, are the best in their field at selling Farms, Estates, Land and Rural Property. For a free, no obligation, market appraisal for sale purposes, call one of our specialist farm agents. Andrew Tuffin Head of Farm Agency 01258 472244 Lucy Carnell Somerset 01935 382901 Jack Edwards Wiltshire & Hampshire 01722 334323 Will Wallis Dorset 01305 236572 Ross Willmington Devon 01297 33122 6th - 10th February 2023 Free Farm Valuation Week SOLD Dorset 107 acres SOLD Devon 66 acres SOLD Exmoor 54 acres Symonds &Sampson blackmorevale.net

Symonds &Sampson SEE MORE SCAN HERE SYMONDSANDSAMPSON.CO.UK

To find out how Affpuddle Sold 21% above

Dorchester Office 01305 236237 Available as a whole or in 9 lots

RESIDENTIAL

RURAL

DORSET | DEVON | SOMERSET | HAMPSHIRE | WILTSHIRE | CORNWALL | LONDON SALES | LETTINGS | AUCTIONS | PLANNING | NEW HOMES SEE MORE SCAN HERE SYMONDSANDSAMPSON.CO.UK

SOMERSET | HAMPSHIRE | WILTSHIRE | CORNWALL | LONDON SALES | LETTINGS | AUCTIONS | PLANNING | NEW HOMES SEE MORE SCAN HERE SYMONDSANDSAMPSON.CO.UK

wwallis@symondsandsampson.co.uk

|

Auction 25 May 2023 at 2:00pm Digby Hall, Sherborne DT9 3AB

Dewlish Guide £100,000

A single building plot in a peaceful village location with full PP for a holiday cottage with open-plan living and parking. Freehold Blandford 01258 452670

Marston Magna Guide £95,000

10.03 acres (4.06 ha) of pasture land set in a single

East Coker Guide £240,000 (whole)

22.64 acres (9.16 hectares) of gently sloping pasture land available in four lots with direct road access. Freehold.

We’re inviting entries for our first auction of the year, to be held on 2 March in Wimborne. Entries so far include a number of properties for renovation, agricultural and building land, and even a barge!

Milborne Port Guide £150,000

A 2 bedroom cottage situated in the heart of the village with a courtyard garden and off-road parking. EPC E. CTB B. Freehold Sherborne 01935 814488

Lot A 5.45 acres of pasture land Guide £55,000

We’re inviting entries for our first auction of the year, to be held on 2 March in Wimborne. Entries so far include a number of properties for renovation, agricultural and building land, and even a barge!

We’re inviting entries for our first auction of the year, to be held on 2 March in Wimborne. Entries so far include a number of properties for renovation, agricultural and building land, and even a barge!

We’re inviting entries for our first auction of the year, to be held on 2 March in Wimborne. Entries so far include a number of properties for renovation, agricultural and building land, and even a barge!

Lot B 3.35 acres of pasture land Guide £35,000

Lot C 5.96 acres of pasture land Guide £70,000

Lot D 7.88 acres of pasture land Guide £80,000

Yeovil 01935 382901

To find out how this fast and efficient method of sale and purchase can work for you, please contact:

Yeovil Guide £180,000

Two adjoining commercial premises for renovation, providing development potential (STPP). EPC

To find out how this fast and efficient method of sale and purchase can work for you, please contact:

To find out how this fast and efficient method of sale and purchase can work for you, please contact:

To find out how this fast and efficient method of sale and purchase can work for you, please contact:

Mark Lewis | 01258 473766

Mark Lewis | 01258 473766

Mark Lewis | 01258 473766

Mark Lewis | 01258 473766

Meredith Holmes | 01202 843190

Meredith Holmes | 01202 843190

Meredith Holmes | 01202 843190

Meredith Holmes | 01202 843190

Graham Barton | 01297 33122

Symonds &Sampson SOLD SOLD SOLD

Graham Barton | 01297 33122

Graham Barton | 01297 33122

Graham Barton | 01297 33122

Tarrant Valley Guide £200,000

Puddletown Guide £200,000

Weymouth Guide £245,000

TBC. Total RV £17,900. Freehold Yeovil 01935 423526

Symonds &Sampson SOLD SOLD SOLD

Symonds &Sampson SOLD SOLD SOLD

&Sampson SOLD SOLD SOLD

100% success rate at our December Auction

100%

Poole Guide £225,000

Affpuddle Sold 21% above guide

A 2 bedroom period cottage with potential, half a mile from Holes Bay and Hamworthy Beach. Large garden and garage. EPC D. CTB C. Freehold Wimborne 01202 843190

A 3 bedroom semi-detached property for modernisation in a desirable location with grounds of about 0.55 acres. EPC E. CTB B. Freehold Blandford 01258 452670

100% success rate at our December Auction

100% success rate at our December Auction

Cranborne Guide £350,000

A semi detached 3 bedroom

A semi-detached 3 bedroom property for refurbishment with a generous garden adjoining fields. EPC G. CTB B. Freehold Dorchester 01305 261008

An attached Grade II Listed barn with potential for conversion (subject to PP and consents) on the edge of the town. Freehold Poundbury 01305 251154

Trent Guide £375,000

Bridport Guide £400,000

Affpuddle Sold 21% above guide

Affpuddle Sold 21% above guide

Affpuddle Sold 21% above guide

Victorian villa for updating centrally located in this highly sought after village. EPC E. CTB D. Freehold

West Morden Sold 45% above guide

West Morden Sold 45% above guide

West Morden Sold 45% above guide

West Morden Sold 45% above guide

Wimborne 01202 843190

A Grade II Listed cottage for renovation enjoying a rural setting in this popular village. EPC Exempt. CTB E. Freehold

Winterbourne Houghton Sold 233% above guide

Winterbourne Houghton Sold 233% above guide

Winterbourne Houghton Sold 233% above guide

Winterbourne Houghton Sold 233% above guide

Sherborne 01935 814488

A handsome Grade II Listed 3 bedroom Georgian house located close to the town centre. EPC Exempt. CTB E. Freehold

Bridport 01308 422092

enclosure in an edge of village location. Freehold Yeovil 01935 382901

Shillingstone Guide £60,000 4.08 acres (1.65 ha) of pasture land in a tucked away location on the edge of the village. Freehold Sturminster 01258 472244

success rate at our December Auction

Symonds

Lot A

Lot D

Lot B

Lot C

Sturminster Newton Guide £585,000

A charming 3 bedroom Georgian House with lovely period features and beautifully presented accommodation situated on the outskirts of the town. EPC D; CTB D. Freehold Sturminster 01258 473766

Pimperne Guide £750,000

A spacious 5 bedroom traditionally built family home situated in a quiet cul- de- sac village location with garden and double garage. EPC C; CTB F. Freehold Blandford 01258 452670

We’re inviting entries for our first auction of the year, to be held on 2 March in Wimborne. Entries so far include a number of properties for renovation, agricultural and building land, and even a barge! out how this fast and efficient method of sale and purchase can work for you, please contact:

Bere Regis Guide £650,000

Child Okeford Guide £1,350,000

A superb, beautifully presented, and versatile 6 bedroom house with large garden and range of outbuildings situated in a highly sought after village with amenities. EPC D; CTB F. Freehold Sturminster 01258 473766

We’re inviting entries for our first auction of the year, to be held on 2 March in Wimborne. Entries so far include a number of properties for renovation, agricultural and building land, and even a barge!

We’re inviting entries for our first auction of the year, to be held on 2 March in Wimborne. Entries so far include a number of properties for renovation, agricultural and building land, and even a barge!

To find out how this fast and efficient method of sale and purchase can work for you, Mark Lewis | 01258 473766

Mark Lewis | 01258 473766

Thornford Guide £350,000

Meredith Holmes | 01202 843190

Graham Barton | 01297 33122

Affpuddle 21% above guide

100%

We’re inviting Wimborne. Entries

Marnhull Guide £675,000

Meredith Holmes | 01202 843190

Graham Barton | 01297 33122

Graham Barton | 01297 33122

An immaculate 2 double bedroom house with charming characterful features and spacious accommodation situated in a popular village. EPC D; CTB C. Freehold Sherborne 01935 814488

100% success rate at our December Auction

success rate

SOLD SOLD

above guide

West Morden Sold 45% above guide

LONDON WEST COUNTRY 2 3 LET US FEATURE YOUR PROPERTY CONTACT YOUR LOCAL OFFICE TODAY blackmorevale.net

A handsome Grade II Listed 3 bedroom house with an abundance of charm and character in a peaceful location on the edge of this thriving village. EPC Exempt; CTB E. Freehold Sturminster 01258 473766

100% success rate at our December Auction

at our December Auction

Sampson SOLD

100%

West Morden Sold 45% above guide

West Morden 45% above guide

Winterbourne Houghton Sold 233% above guide

RESIDENTIAL | RURAL

Winterbourne Houghton 233% above guide

Winterbourne Houghton Sold 233% above guide

Sold 21% above SEE MORE SCAN HERE SYMONDSANDSAMPSON.CO.UK

COMMERCIAL

£435,000

Wincanton

An individual three bedroom detached bungalow situated in a prime location close to local amenities. This delightful bungalow enjoys a large sitting/dining room, spacious master bedroom with en-suite wet room, fitted kitchen, utility room, sunny aspect garden and large single garage. No forward

Thinking of moving?

NEW INSTRUCTION

BRUTON

Attractive period cottage situated in the heart of Wincanton. Accommodation spread over three floors with a spacious sitting/dining room, fitted kitchen, utility room, large garden, GCH, double glazing, no forward chain. EPC Rating: D. Freehold.

£225,000

Due to a busy time over the Easter period we urgently require more properties to meet the demand from buyers looking for a home in the local towns and villages. If you are considering bringing your property to the market we would be delighted to provide you with a free market assessment and valuation. Please call 01963 34000 to arrange an appointment or email wincanton@hambledon.net

fitted kitchen, private garden, garage and no forward chain. EPC Rating: C.

NEW INSTRUCTION

WINCANTON £145,000

An attractive two bedroom mid terrace house situated in a small close on a mature development. Spacious sitting room, kitchen/diner, bathroom, easy to maintain garden, allocated parking, ideal investment or first time buy. EPC Rating: C.

WINCANTON 01963 34000

Shaftesbury 01747 851151

WINCANTON £226,500

An exceptionally well presented three bedroom semi-detached house with stunning far reaching views over Wincanton and countryside beyond. Sitting room, stylish fitted kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite shower room, cloakroom, driveway and garage alongside property, landscaped garden. EPC Rating: C.

£350,000

WINCANTON £179,950

A spacious two bedroom semi-detached house situated on a popular residential development. The property is presented in excellent order and enjoys the benefit of a car port, long driveway, enclosed garden, sitting room, fitted kitchen, conservatory and potential to extend (STPP). EPC Rating: D.

HAMLET LETTINGS

01963 34006

chain. EPC Rating C. Freehold.

An attractive three bedroom detached bungalow situated in a delightful village location. This impressive home enjoys a spacious sitting room with wood burning stove, large kitchen/diner, utility room, master bedroom with en-suite shower room, generous parking and attached garage. EPC Rating: E. Freehold.

£550,000 South Cheriton

Wincanton

A wonderful Grade II Listed cottage with charm and character in one of Wincanton’s most sought after streets. This splendid property enjoys spacious accommodation (1346sqft) including sitting room with flagstone floor and feature fireplace, dining room, two large double bedrooms, delightful cottage garden 110’ in length. EPC Rating: D. Freehold.

A two bedroom end terrace house with off road parking, lounge with wood burning stove, large kitchen, two double bedrooms, large garden with timber studio/workshop, gas central heating and double glazing. EPC Rating: D. Freehold.

£250,000 Wincanton

£625,000 Templecombe

WANTED TO RENT 1 BED PROPERTY WITH GARDEN. desperate retired secretary & dog. Anywhere in North Dorset. 07909 978934

MILBORNE PORT

2 bed house to rent with garden & 2 parking spaces. Available 6th May, long term tenant preferred. £800 pcm contact 01258 817546, 07493774535, maryrfreeland@gmail.com

RANGE OF BARNS AND SHEDS TO RENT

Templecombe area For storage or light industrial use 07980 584550

TRADITIONAL COTTAGE TO RENT MAY 15TH. Near Shaftesbury. 1 large double bedroom. Sunny garden. Parking. Conservatory. Not suitable for children or pets. Good references needed. £770/month. 07791-674305

BRAND NEW, FURNISHED CEDAR LODGE, 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, cedar lodge with deck in rural location. 2 parking spaces. 1.5 miles from Shaftesbury. Rent £1,500 pcm. Call 07730 955593

To Rent - Semi-Detached House

2 bedrooms, ground floor bathroom & WC, ground floor kitchen/dining, sitting room, medium size garden with outbuildings. No garage or onsite parking. Tarrant Keyneston village. £350 PCM excl. bills

Tenant must be of retirement age, able to live independently and have links to the local communityTarrant Valley.

Please contact 01258 453249 for an application form and information sheet.

The property is managed by the Galpin Trust Charity which is a member of the Almshouse Association more information can be found here: www.almshouses.org

Brain chain

Brain chain (hard)

SOUTH CHERITON

Asking price £750,000 Agricultural tied dwelling in South Cheriton comprising five bedroomed chalet style bungalow set in fifteen acres with an outbuilding. EPC D Please call Morton New on 01747 824547 for more information